The Local Tourist provides inspiration for your next adventure, focusing on road trips, culture, history, the great outdoors, and destinations large and small.

The Local Tourist has a simple goal:
to help you experience the fascination of a tourist while feeling the comfort of the local, no matter where you are.
Please allow me to introduce myself
Hi. My name’s Theresa and I’m The Local Tourist. Have we met? Well, then, please allow me to introduce myself.


Discover the Beauty of America’s Heartland
Introducing Midwest State Park Adventures, a one-of-a-kind guidebook for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and families seeking an exciting and unforgettable experience in the great outdoors.
Unearth the Midwest’s Treasures with this ultimate guide to its state parks, curated by local experts.
Recently on The Local Tourist
Find travel inspiration and tips with these stories and guides.
- Best Chicago Boat Tours: Lake and River Cruises 2023
- Ultimate Road Trip Planner: Tips, Tools, and Inspiration for your next Adventure 2023
- Attractions and Things to do on Route 66 in Illinois
- Your Guide to the Best Chicago Festivals Summer 2023
- Enjoy the Millennium Park Summer Music Series 2023
- Chicago in Summer 2023: 39 Best Events & Things to do
Writing & Publishing
Not only do I write about travel, I can also teach you how to tighten your writing, bring destinations to life, be found by the readers who need you, and get raving fans. I can also help you learn how to publish your own books and control your author life.






Mother Nature’s a magnificent artist with limitless creativity.
Step into her gallery and get some fresh air.
Road Trips
There’s nothing like hittin’ the road for a great adventure! Check out these guides before you venture out.
- Ultimate Road Trip Planner: Tips, Tools, and Inspiration for your next Adventure 2023
- Attractions and Things to do on Route 66 in Illinois
- Printable Road Trip Planner for your best vacation 2023
- 33 Beautiful Road Trips in the USA: Best Scenic Drives 2023
- 9 Best Road Trip Organization Tips and Tools: How to Organize your Road Trip Plans 2023
- 36 Best Road Trip Planning Tools: 2023

Destination Guides
Go beyond the standard “what to do” with these in-depth destination guides.
- Things to do in Brown County Indiana: the Making of a Tourist Destination
- 27 Things to do in in Marinette Wisconsin: A Touch of Royalty, a Dose of History, and the Great Outdoors
- The Captivating Allure of Scottsdale, Arizona
- A Groovy Getaway: 14 Cool Things To Do on Kelleys Island
- A Door County Love Letter: How this Cancer Survivor got Her Life Back at Death’s Door
- Frosty Treats, Cheese Curds, and Burgers in Bed: a Romantic Getaway in Sheboygan

The Local Tourist began as a Chicago guide in 2002. Explore the Windy City and fall in love.
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Our philosophy is all about making the world a better place through meaningful and fun experiences.