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From the glossy lakes of Minnesota, to the endless mountains in the Pacific Northwest, the United States of America has it all. We are so thankful to call the “Land of the Free” our home. And though we might be biased, we believe it’s a country that deserves to be explored by foreigners and nationals alike.
Most people travel to the US for a short vacation and end up hitting one or two cities, but there is so much more to be discovered here! Each state is unique and has something special to offer, from the national parks to the streets of New Orleans, our country boasts a diversity of geography, culture, food and experiences that travelers would be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
One of the best ways to see this massive country (and our personal favorite method of travel!) is to take a road trip. Come along with us as we share our USA travel tips, road trip advice, and vanlife stories.
USA Travel Guide Contents
Important Info | Where to Go | Transportation | Best time to Visit | Things to Do & Eat | Typical Budget
City Guides | Road Trip Planning | Pacific Northwest
Popular Destinations
Important information about the USA
USA at a glance: Each region of the US has its own culture that can feel as different as if you’d hopped on a flight to the other side of the world.
There’s the Pacific Northwest with its mountains and driftwood-strewn beaches, California is a vibe all its own with a geographical diversity to rival entire countries.
In the west you’ll find more mountains, deserts and plenty of adventure.
The south is known for its hot and humid summers with short and dry winters, and the Northeast is the best place for leaf peeping in the fall.
And you can’t forget about the midwest with its abundance of lakes and forests. Oh, and the leaf peeping there ain’t half bad either!
Currency in the USA: United States Dollar (USD) $
Credit Cards/ ATMs: Credit cards are widely used and cash is not as common, but still accepted everywhere.
Note: Unlike in other countries, it is customary for your server at a restaurant to take your credit card away from the table while they charge for your bill.
Tipping in the USA: The US has a big tipping culture and 20% is the customary tip for good service at a restaurant, bar or place of service. However, 15% is adequate. Always look at your receipt to see if service is included your bill or not.
Where to Go
Most popular places to visit in the USA:
- Most first-time travelers to the US pay a visit to New York City
- The National Parks in the US are some of the most spectacular displays of nature on earth
- California has a particular draw from Los Angeles to San Francisco and just about everywhere else in the state (including the famed Yosemite National Park)
- Music-lovers will seek out Nashville, Tennessee
- Festival-goers will hit up Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana
- Las Vegas has a particular draw to those looking for a party
- And of course there’s the PNW— home to two of our favorite states, Washington and Oregon
READ NEXT
>> Jump down to USA City Guides
Transportation in the USA
Public Transportation: Public transportation in the US varies from city to city, however most cities in the US will offer some form of metro system or buses.
Taxis: Taxis in major US cities are metered with rates from about $2-$3 per mile. This is an expensive way to get around so we’d recommend ride sharing instead.
Ride sharing: Popular ride sharing apps like Lyft and Uber are safe and effective ways to get around within a city. A lot of cities also offer some form of bike share or electric scooter rental program as well.
Tip: Download both Lyft and Uber and pull up your route to compare prices before committing to a ride. Oftentimes pricing will be very similar, but sometimes you’ll get drastically different rates on different apps.
Bus: Taking the bus is one of the cheapest ways to get around the country, especially if you’re going between states. Check the routes and rates on these popular bus companies:
Flying: Though it is the quickest way to get around, unlike in other parts of the world, flying within the US can be extremely pricey. Use fare comparison tools like Kayak or Skyscanner to compare flight prices and find the best rates.
Tip: When flying on popular budget airlines like Spirit or Frontier, you’ll want to make sure you read the fare rules closely as there are usually lots of hidden fees and the price of the ticket only includes the bare minimum. More reliable airlines include Southwest, Jetblue, and the big 3: Delta, United, and American.
Train: Amtrak is the train company that runs throughout the US, however it is not the quickest, nor the most affordable way to travel across the country. They are however updating their routes so you may find a route that works for your travel.
Renting a Car/Campervan: Renting a car or campervan is one of the best ways to travel throughout the US as you’ll have the chance to see so much more of the countryside.
READ NEXT
>> Jump down to Road Trip Resources
Best Time to Visit the USA
In such a large country as the United States, the climate and weather can vary drastically from place to place. This means there is really no bad time to visit the US, however you’ll want to be more strategic about your timing based on your intended destination(s) within the country.
Throughout most of the country, you’ll experience all 4 seasons, with the exception of the southern United States where it’s typically warmer year-round. Being in the northern hemisphere, summers are from June through August, winters usually last from November through March and spring and autumn fall in between.
If you are visiting the northern US during wintertime, be prepared for freezing (and sometimes below freezing) temperatures! Likewise, it can get extremely hot in the south during the summer months. We’d recommend Googling the climate in your intended destination to get a better idea of what to expect during your visit.
Peak season for tourists: The tourist season will vary based on where you are headed. If you are traveling around any major holidays or events, you can expect there to be crowds.
Times to Avoid Traveling in the USA: School holidays are typically when most families in the US take the time to travel, so places, especially kid-friendly attractions, will be more crowded. School holidays include all the national bank holidays, plus summer months (mid-June through August), the week between Christmas and New Years, and sometimes a mid-fall break in October.
National Holidays in the USA:
- Thanksgiving: The last Thursday in November
- Christmas: December 25
- St. Patrick’s Day: March 17 (not considered a bank holiday in the US)
- Memorial Day: The last Monday in May
- Independence Day: July 4
- Labor Day: The first Monday in September
- Halloween: October 31 (not considered a bank holiday in the US)
Top Things to Do in the USA
- Rent a campervan and go on a road trip
- Discover the National Parks
- Visit the Big Apple
- Check out the museums in Washington D.C.
- Explore the food and music scene in Austin
- Stay Weird in Portland
- Have yourself a night in Sin City
- Go on a camping trip
Best Food to Eat in the USA
- Compare pizza styles in NYC and Chicago
- Texas BBQ
- Lobster rolls and clam chowder in New England
- Gumbo & crawfish in New Orleans
- Cuban food in Miami
- Fried chicken and grits in the South
- Wine in California
- Craft beer in Denver, Portland or Austin
Typical Budget for the USA
The United States is not a country well-suited for backpackers and ultra budget travelers, but that doesn’t mean you cannot travel on the cheap… You just have to know what to expect and how to cut costs.
How Much to Budget Per Day in the USA
- Budget traveler: $83 per day
- Mid-range traveler: $222 per day
- Luxury traveler: $633 per day
- Camping: $25-$30/night
- Cheap motel room: starting at $55/night
- Hotel room in a major city: starting at $125/night
- Sandwich = $5
- Mid-range restaurant = $15-$20
- Fancy restaurant = $40+
- Local beer = $7
- Public bus short-range: $2
- Taxis: $2-$3/mile
- 7-day unlimited MetroCard in NYC: $33
- Car Rental in Los Angeles: $100/day
- Movie theater ticket: $15
- National Park entrance fee: $25-$35
- Adult entrance to Disney World: $110-$160
- CityPASS for NYC: $132
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Known for sweeping canyon views of a dramatic red rock landscape, Canyonlands National Park is sure to make your jaw drop. In this ultimate guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your trip to Canyonlands.
13 Adventurous Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
We think Capitol Reef National Park is the most underrated national park in Utah and we want to tell you why! We’ve put together everything you need to know to plan your visit including all the best things to do, where to stay, and important info.
15 Fun Things to Do in Bryce Canyon National Park
A magical, otherworldly place with towering red rock formations called hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park is one of those places you have to see to believe. The small park packs a big punch well beyond its scenery, with plenty of unique things to do in Bryce Canyon.
17 Exciting Things to Do in Zion National Park
Easily the most visited of Utah’s Mighty Five, Zion is known for its red rock canyons flanking the scenic Virgin River. In this ultimate guide you’ll find everything from where to stay to the best things to do in Zion National Park.
25 Epic Things to Do in Glacier National Park
Rugged, remote and wild, Glacier National Park is an incredible place to experience northwestern Montana. We've rounded up the top hikes and best things to do in Glacier National Park to help you plan an unforgettable trip!
Camping on Shi Shi Beach: 2024 Guide + Insider Tips
For an Instagram-worthy sunset and a bit of adventure, camping on Shi Shi Beach should be on any PNW Bucket List. We've put together everything you need to know for your first time camping on Shi Shi Beach!
19 Adventurous Things to do in Olympic National Park
With rainforest, waterfalls, beaches, and mountains, the Olympic Peninsula in Washington is one of the most unique places in the United States. This guide walks you through how to make the most of your trip by going over the best things to do in Olympic National Park.
Where to Stay in Olympic National Park: Camping Guide + Best Lodges
From campsites on driftwood-strewn beaches to historic lodges with modern amenities, we’ve got you covered for where to stay in Olympic National Park. Plus we’ve included some important information you’ll want to know if you plan on camping in the park.
Camping in Hawaii: Essential Tips + Best Campsites
While Hawaii is known for its beaches, hikes, and culture, camping in Hawaii is an experience not to be missed. We’ve compiled a guide with everything you’ll need to know before planning a successful and legal camping trip in Hawaii.
15 Incredible Places to Visit on a Utah Road Trip
As one of the most underrated states in the US, we’re here to share with you all of the best places to visit on a Utah road trip, from the famed “Mighty 5” national parks to the lesser-known draws such as a hike to ancient ruins and a cafe built...
24 Best Restaurants in Bend, Oregon in 2024 (according to locals)
If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Bend, Oregon, you’ve come to the right place! After living in Bend for several years, we've founded up a list of the best Bend restaurants that range from cheap eats to fine dining (from a local's point of view!).
The Dyrt App: Honest Review & Exclusive Offer
Finding campsites is a piece of cake when you have a great camping app! We’re sharing our honest thoughts on one of the most popular camping apps out there — The Dyrt. We are going over our insider tips, features we love, and updates we’d like to see improved. We...
How to find Free Camping in the USA (+Tips & Apps)
Ever wonder how people find free camping? We’ve rounded up our top tips and advice as well as the best free camping apps out there. Plus, we’re sharing the no-BS truth about what free campsites are really like.
42 Magical Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth, Washington is a magical Bavarian-themed town that is packed with beauty and adventure! With bucket list hikes, incredible restaurants and experiences for all ages, we’ve put together a guide with the best things to do in Leavenworth so you can plan the perfect trip.
San Francisco to Big Sur Road Trip: 20 Best Stops + Tips
Looking for an unforgettable San Francisco to Big Sur road trip? In this article, we’ll uncover hidden gems along California's breathtaking Highway 1, from the laid-back Pacifica to the majestic Big Sur. Get ready for scenic views, hikes, and culinary delights!
Las Vegas to Death Valley: Ultimate Day Trip Guide
Las Vegas to Death Valley is the perfect day trip to add to your itinerary because it will give you a chance to get out of the city and experience a unique part of the region. In this article, we break down exactly how to make this day trip from...
Exciting Palm Springs Itinerary: Perfect Weekend Getaway [2024]
Whether you’re looking for poolside relaxation or a heart-thumping hike (or both, like us!), you’ll find it in this perfect Palm Springs itinerary. We’ve rounded up the best things to do on a weekend escape in this desert oasis!
Perfect Joshua Tree Day Trip: Tips & Hidden Gems
If you just have one day, follow this Joshua Tree day trip itinerary for the perfect route that blends top hikes and hidden gems. We’ve created the ultimate guide for planning the perfect visit to Joshua Tree National Park.
9 Easy Camping Meals (that are healthy & delicious!)
Cooking healthy and delicious meals while traveling in a campervan is easier than you think! We’ve rounded up our favorite healthy camping meals and are sharing the step-by-step recipes so you can see just how easy they are, even if you have a tiny kitchen to work with. Bonus: All...
65 Crazy Fun Things To Do in Seattle
With a blend of nature and urban attractions, there are so many fun things to do in Seattle for every type of traveler! We’ve spent lots of time in this city, and are sharing our very favorite things to do in Seattle to help you plan the perfect trip. Plus,...
41 Truly Epic Things to Do on Big Island, Hawaii in 2024
From lava fields to pristine beaches, there are so many things to do on Big Island, Hawaii. We’re sharing all the must-sees as well as hidden gems that few tourists know about.
60 Fun Things to Do in Minneapolis (all year round!)
Minneapolis, Minnesota is known for many things, including the sparkling lakes, Mall of America, professional sports, and Prince — but that only scratches the surface. There are countless fun things to do in Minneapolis year-round, and we’ve rounded up the best to get you started.
Best Time to Visit Colorado: When to Go & When to Avoid!
Colorful Colorado is a year-round destination with jaw-dropping scenery, outdoor activities, cool mountain towns, and much more to explore in all four seasons. This guide will help you choose the best time to visit Colorado, depending on how you plan to spend your time.
Best Time to Visit Hawaii: When to Go & When to Avoid
Hawaii is known for its pristine beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, world-class surf, and welcoming aloha culture. With so much to see and do, deciding on the best time to visit Hawaii can be tricky. This guide can help, offering details on weather and activities in each season.
Is Harvest Hosts Worthwhile? Honest (no BS!) Review + Tips
If you've been wondering whether a Harvest Hosts membership is worthwhile for you, you've come to the right place. In this Harvest Hosts review, we share our honest opinions on the program, including pros, cons, and tons of helpful insider tips.
50 Fun Things to do in Bend, Oregon (+LOCAL tips!)
We've created a guide to the best things to do in Bend, Oregon (the place we call home!), filled with local secrets and insider tips.
17 Hawaiian Fruits You Must Try (+ how to eat them!)
One thing we can absolutely guarantee on your trip to Hawaii: you won’t run out of delicious fruit to try. From pineapples to mangosteens, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about Hawaiian fruit and how to enjoy it like a local.
How to get from Kona to Hilo on Hawaii’s Big Island
Are you planning to travel from Kona to Hilo? There are multiple ways to get from one city to the other, so we’ve broken down all the transportation and driving options to help you plan your route.
30 Seriously Fun Things to Do in Hilo, Hawaii (+Tips!)
On the Big Island of Hawaii, the lush city of Hilo is surrounded by pristine nature, adventure, and bucket list experiences. We've curated the ultimate list of things to do in Hilo, plus important tips, to help you plan the most memorable trip to the Kohala Coast.
34 Exciting Things to do in Kona, Hawaii (+ tips!)
Kona is a gateway for exploring all that the west side of Hawaii’s Big Island has to offer. In this guide, we round up all the best things to do in Kona including highlights, offbeat treasures, and insider tips to help you plan your visit.
40 Exciting Things to Do in Kauai (+ insider tips!)
Hawaii’s Garden Island showcases the true essence of Aloha with lush jungles, glittering coastlines, and pristine nature. In this guide to top things to do in Kauai, we’ve rounded up the best foods to try, hiking trails, iconic locations, hidden gems, and cultural experiences not to miss.
Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkeling: Read Before You Book!
Kona manta ray snorkeling is one of the best wildlife experiences not only in Hawaii, but the entire world! Since it’s a nighttime activity only accessible on a tour, it’s helpful to know some details before diving in. This guide will help you plan your manta ray night snorkel!
35 Best Things to do in Hawaii: Ultimate Bucket List + Tips
With endless bucket list-worthy sites stretched across a small archipelago, it can be a little overwhelming to narrow down the best things to do in Hawaii. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the absolute must-sees and experiences for you to plan the ultimate trip to the Aloha state.
Papakōlea Beach: Ultimate Guide to Hawaii’s Green Sand Beach
Papakolea green sand beach is a breathtaking and unique slice of paradise. The only green sand beach in Hawaii, and one of just a few in the entire world, it’s a truly unforgettable place. We put together this guide with everything you need to know to visit Papakolea Beach.
Best Snorkeling in Kauai: 9 Spots + Which to Choose
From calm, family-friendly spots with natural coves to adventurous locations requiring a swim or hike, the best snorkeling in Kauai offers something for every type of water enthusiast. This guide covers some of the best snorkeling sites, plus tips to help you enjoy the experience!
Kalalau Trail Hike: Backpacking Kauai’s Napali Coast
This info-packed guide to the Kalalau Trail has everything you need. Find insider tips, what to pack, & transportation info all in one place.
Best Donuts in Portland (it’s NOT where you expect!)
We've tried lots of donuts in Portland in the name of research to share the very best of the best with you! We're sharing our 100% honest reviews of the most popular donut shops so you know which are worth the hype.
17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Yosemite National Park
Known for enormous granite monoliths and towering waterfalls, Yosemite National Park has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll break down the quintessential things to do in Yosemite and offer tips to maximize your stay in the park.
16 Exciting Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park
Filled with towering mountains, pristine alpine lakes, and expansive pine forests, Rocky Mountain National Park showcases Colorado at its best. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the park to make the most of your visit!
15 EPIC Things to Do in North Cascades National Park
With hundreds of thousands of acres of pristine wilderness filled with glaciers, rugged peaks, sparkling alpine lakes, and some of the best hiking in the US, North Cascades National Park in Washington state is spectacular. This guide details everything you need to know to plan your trip!
17 Fun Day Trips from Las Vegas
For those looking to get out of the city, there are countless day trips from Las Vegas. Whether you’re looking to explore the surrounding national parks or visit a nearby ghost town, our detailed guide will offer all the information you need to plan.
50 Cool Things to Do in Las Vegas (besides gambling)
Las Vegas is much more than its famed reputation for slot machines and high rollers. We put together a detailed list of the best things to do in Las Vegas to help you plan your ultimate trip to Sin City.
Where to Stay in Denver: Neighborhood Guide & Tips
Denver is a flourishing city with diverse neighborhoods. If you’re having trouble narrowing down where to stay in Denver, we’ve got you! In this guide, we’ll walk you through each neighborhood in detail so you can figure out the best fit for your stay in Denver.
Best Colorado Ski Resorts
Colorful Colorado delivers an unbeatable skiing and snowboarding experience, with something for all skill levels. There are over two dozen Colorado ski resorts and we’re serving up all the details for the best ones to help you plan your winter ski vacation.
35 Epic Things to Do in Colorado
We know that there are some seriously epic adventures in Colorado, but it can be hard to narrow down exactly what to do. We’ve put together the top things to do in Colorado to help plan your trip to this outstanding outdoor wonderland.
Guide to a Magical Leavenworth Washington Christmas [2024]
Combining charming alpine scenery, an abundance of family-friendly activities, and winter outdoor recreation, there's nothing quite like a Leavenworth Washington Christmas! Our guide will help you plan your visit to this magical destination during the holiday season.
21 Best Day Trips from Denver
There are dozens upon dozens of day trips from Denver oftering up unique and fun experiences for every type of adventurer. Whether you’re looking to visit nearby towns or get a taste of the outdoors, our detailed guide will offer all the information you need to plan.
Seattle Hot Air Balloon Ride: What to Expect
Curious about booking a Seattle hot air balloon ride experience? Here's everything you need to know including my honest opinions about the experience, what to expect on a flight, and insider tips like what to wear.
19 Fun Things to do in Grand Forks, North Dakota
We were pleasantly surprised on our first visit to this Midwest town. In this article we're going over all the fun things to do in Grand Forks, North Dakota, plus our favorite restaurants and where to find the best entertainment and shopping.
22 Cool Airbnbs in Austin
With plenty of things to do, see, eat, and drink for literally everyone, Austin is a major hotspot attracting plenty of visitors. In a city this “weird” (in the best way!) and diverse, a standard hotel just won’t do, so let’s take a deep dive into the best and most...
Floating the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon
It's no surprise that when the weather gets warm in Bend, locals flock to the nearest body of water. As locals, we know a thing or two... Here is everything you need to know about floating the Deschutes River in Bend, Oregon during the summertime!
Smith Rock State Park: What to Expect + Best Hikes
Central Oregon's Smith Rock State Park is world renowned as a top-notch rock climbing mecca, but it's also a premier hiking destination. In this guide to Oregon’s most famous state park, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your visit.
22 Incredible Places to Visit in Oregon
There’s never a shortage of hidden gems and new places to discover in this beautiful corner of the U.S. With so many options, it can be tricky knowing what to see and do first, so we rounded up the best places to visit in Oregon to help you get started...
USA National Park Annual Pass: Is it Worthwhile? + How to Buy
At just $80 per year, the America the Beautiful National Park Annual Pass grants you free access to over 2,000 Federal recreation areas in the United States, including all 62+ National Parks. Here is everything you need to know about the pass.
17 Best Day Trips from Seattle
Surrounded by dramatic coastline and stunning mountains in all directions, it’s no surprise there are abundant options for day trips from Seattle. Whether you want to shop for art in a quaint town, summit a mountain, or simply relax by the sea, we’ve rounded up a diverse list of the...
15 Exciting Day Trips From Phoenix: A Local’s Guide
Arizona may be known for its majestic Grand Canyon and Sedona’s red rocks, but there is so much more to discover in this gorgeous state. In one day you can hike among cacti and then drive north 2.5 hours to ski past snow-covered pine trees. We’ve called upon a local...
15 Best Airbnbs in Denver for Every Type of Traveler
If your planning a trip to the Mile High City, you’ll want to check out this highly curated list of the best Airbnbs in Denver. We’re sharing our favorite stays to meet every need — from budget-friendly, to the most unique accommodation, to some seriously outrageous finds!
Best Airbnbs in Seattle for Every Type of Traveler
Whatever your reason for traveling to the PNW hotspot, you’ll want to check out this highly curated list of the best Airbnbs in Seattle. Broken down by neighborhood, we’re sharing our favorite stays to meet every need — from budget-friendly, to the most unique accommodation, to some seriously outrageous finds!
Best Airbnbs in Portland, Oregon
Whatever your reason for traveling to Oregon’s biggest metropolis, you’ll want to check out this highly curated list of the best Airbnbs in Portland. Broken down by neighborhood, we’re sharing our favorite stays to meet every need — from budget-friendly, to the most unique accommodation, to some seriously outrageous finds!
48 Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip
If you're planning a road trip and are trying to stay on a budget, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered our best, most practical money-saving tips and hacks so you can plan a cheap road trip without sacrificing any fun!
41 Seriously Fun Things to Do in Denver
Situated at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is an exciting city that’ll keep you on your toes. We’re sharing the best things to do in Denver, Colorado — from outdoor adventures to free activities to the most delicious food in town. This Denver city guide is filled with...
Hiking Las Vegas: The Best Trails Near Sin City
Leave The Strip behind and discover hiking Las Vegas — one of the best activities that Sin City has to offer. In this article, I’ve narrowed down some of my favorite scenic hikes near Las Vegas, organized by region and ranked for difficulty with an estimated time for completion. I’ve...
Where to Stay in Seattle: Neighborhood Guide & Tips
Seattle is a perfect hub for both PNW adventuring and delving into an excellent foodie & music scene. So where is the best place to stay in Seattle, you ask? The answer depends on your travel style. We’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods — from those with quirky hipster...
Las Vegas on a Budget: 27 Money-Saving Tips + Cheap Things to Do
You can easily blow your entire bank account in Las Vegas… Or you can use these tricks to save lots of money during your visit to Sin City! We've put together tons of money-saving tips and free activities so you can enjoy your time in Vegas without flattening your wallet....
14 Fun & Unique Things to Do in Austin, Texas: A Local’s Guide
With incredible food, endless live music, and a quirky culture, Austin is a beautiful and diverse city full of character and things to do. We're sharing a list of fun & unique things to do in Austin, Texas including where to eat, the best coffee and breweries, and outdoor activities...
38 Fun Things to Do in Tucson, Arizona
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, ahh-mazing Mexican food, and lively nightlife, Tucson, Arizona will check all your boxes. We’re sharing the best things to do in Tucson, from exploring the Sonoran Desert, foods you can’t miss, and all the other stuff you need to know to plan a fun...
10 Best Hikes in Yosemite National Park
The best way to take in the sights at Yosemite is lacing up your hiking boots and hitting the trail. An avid hiker rounds up some of her favorites in this handy guide to the best hikes in Yosemite National Park.
New York City on a Budget: 17 Money-Saving Tips
It’s true: New York City ain’t cheap! Accommodation is notoriously expensive, and food can add up if you don’t know where to find cheap eats! But there’s good news: We’ve rounded up our top tips for traveling to NYC on a budget so you don’t come home from the Big...
7 Best Desert Hikes in Southern California
There’s beauty in every corner of California. The downside is millions of people travel there to see this beauty, but most of them stick to the national parks. If you want to spend a day out in nature away from the crowds, here is a list of the best desert...
31 Best Things to Do in NYC on your First Visit
If you’re bored in New York City, something's wrong with you! We created a list of top things to do in NYC that you shouldn’t miss while visiting this ever-growing city. Some are super touristy (yet still worthwhile), like the Top of the Rock and the MET, but some are...
Kimpton Muse Hotel: Amazing Stay in New York City
With thousands of hotels in New York City, finding a place to stay can be daunting. Luckily, we think we’ve found the perfect hotel for anyone’s first trip to NYC. The Kimpton Muse Hotel is where value meets luxury, and you can’t beat its convenient location. Read our full review...
19 Eco Friendly Road Trip Tips
Taking a road trip can be a great way to travel, but it can also take a toll on the environment. Luckily, there are many small things we can do to make our road trips more sustainable and eco-friendly. Let's all do our best to minimize our footprint and keep...
Road Trip Budget & Daily Costs of Vanlife
Traveling across the USA in a campervan can be a great way to see the country on a tight budget. Living in a van means you don’t need to spend money at hotels or expensive restaurants, plus, you can easily get off the beaten path. We kept track of everything...
One Wild Week Road Tripping in Idaho
Idaho is a lot more than potatoes. Come with us as we explore hot springs, epic mountain hikes and a landscape that feels like another planet. Lucky for you we have your whole one week road trip planned out.
25 Fun Things to Do in Minneapolis This Fall
We might be biased, but we think our hometown of Minneapolis is pretty great in the fall! From classics like apple picking to lesser known activities like visiting a pizza farm, we’re letting you in on our favorite things to do in Minneapolis in the fall.
What I’ve Learned Traveling as an American
Traveling and living overseas for nearly 6 years has taught us what the rest of the world things about our country — the good, the bad, and the ugly. We have been exposed to the faults of the United States, as well as all the things we have to be...
Love Letter to Minnesota
Dorothy was right: there really is no place like home! Traveling to faraway places has shown me just how special Minnesota is, and has inspired some poetic words.