6 Places to Find Travel Ideas in Your Own State
by Jenny Javitch, Founder of Global Game Plan
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase.
There have always been tons of cool places to visit in the United States so consider taking the time to do some exploring closer to home.
Also, remember to plan in advance! Be sure to check the website or social media pages of your destinations to find their hours of operation, cleaning protocols, and entry procedures (including the possibility of advanced reservations). While each state has different social distancing activities and restrictions, you can find attractions available in your own state by looking in these six places.
1. Check official websites related to state and local tourism
Marketing and tourism-related businesses such as a Convention or Visitor’s Bureau will typically have the best overview of what’s available for tourists and will direct you to what’s open during the pandemic. This comprehensive list of tourism websites for all 50 states can help you begin your search.
Once you’re on the website, you might have to do some digging to find out what’s open for visitors. In recent days, these websites have probably used their social media channels and blog posts to share with the community what is open during the pandemic and available for social distancing activities.
A local Chamber of Commerce is another great resource for local information to help you find restaurants and other businesses open in the area you are visiting.
Related: Exploring Close to Home Could Improve Your Mood
2. Search unique websites
Atlas Obscura, Only in Your State and Roadside Attractions offer some out-of-the-way places or unique destinations to visit in your state you might not have heard of. During this time of COVID-19 travel, it’s important to choose outdoor destinations or those that have established social distancing practices.
3. Use travel guidebooks and local magazines
You can purchase a guidebook online (some e-versions are available) or read local magazines (typically found in local grocery stores, bookstores or by subscription) to find specific suggestions about what to visit in your state. Also look for fun and unique books like Curiosities of Minnesota to spice up your travel plans. Since print resources won’t be updated with COVID-19 information, take the time to double check whether each location is open for business, their hours of operation, and if there are any additional requirements (such as wearing a face mask) when visiting.
Related: How to Plan a Birthday Vacation
4. Watch some movies or tv shows filmed in your state
Prepare for your road trip by looking up the most famous tv show that took place in your state or watching the most popular movie scenes filmed in your state. As an added bonus, the Smithsonian Channel released (with a free 7 day trial) their beautiful ‘Aerial America’ episodes from every state.
5. Find and ask for personal experiences
Follow some local travel bloggers from your state who will share information (and photos!) about their recent travel. You can also use crowd sourcing via email and your social media networks to receive information from your friends and family about the best spots to travel right now. Take some awesome travel photos of your own with one of these cool cameras - and share them when you get back to return the favor.
Related: 8 Romantic Midwest Getaways in Minnesota & Wisconsin
6. Research on Pinterest or around the web to find recommendations
Pinterest is an easy-to-use and helpful resource for finding travel destinations and tourist attraction ideas. You can also use these articles to find places to visit in your own state:
Additional Travel Tips
The following travel resources will be helpful and are based on the variety of ways you might travel this summer:
Road Trips
Helpful road trip planning websites: Roadtrippers My Route Online Road Trip USA
You can use Wanderu and their guides to find bus or train routes (like this Dallas to Houston bus guide).
Related: Best Podcasts for Your Next Roadtrip
Visiting State & National Parks
Helpful Road Trip Website: GoRving.com
Related: A Beginner’s Guide to Taking an RV Trip With Kids
Hotels & Vacation Rentals
Airbnb or VRBO are tried and true options, but take some time to research and find the best vacation rental for your travels.
*Now you can hire Global Game Plan to find you an awesome vacation rental!
Related: Airbnb vs. Hotel: Choosing the Right Accommodation
Virtual Travel
Not feeling comfortable traveling outside of your home? Excited to travel in the United States but wishing you could travel abroad? No worries, you can still travel all over the world through these virtual travel ideas. If you want to bring a buddy, Virtual Flat Stanley is ready to join you!
SHOP FOR TRAVEL ACCESSORIES
Click here to see our full list of recommended travel products!
Global Game Plan would be happy to help you plan your next road trip, local outing or vacation rental search! When it's time, send us an email or schedule a free phone consultation to discuss it.
You can also sign up for the Global Game Plan monthly newsletter (you will receive a FREE Airbnb Comparison Chart) or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest to receive helpful travel tips.