The Local Tourist | Experience the fascination of a tourist; feel the comfort of the local

The Local Tourist has a simple goal: we want you to experience the fascination of a tourist while feeling the comfort of the local, no matter where you are.

About The Local Tourist

The Local Tourist explores unique destinations, focusing on culture, background, beauty, and sheer awesomeness. Subjects that get nearly equal levels of obsession include, but are not limited to, anything outdoors, anything that can be eaten, art, history, architecture, and anything with an ABV above 3%. There’s no subtlety and no drama, but there is definitely a whole lotta kitsch and unmitigated, unabashed enthusiasm.

How to take your bicycle on a road trip

Jim and Theresa bicycling on the Great River State Trail in Wisconsin

When Jim and I planned our Northwest U.S. road trip, we knew our bikes were coming with us. Thanks to Schwinn, we'd begun riding again and we absolutely loved it. We felt like kids. I mean, just look...

Travel Tips - Save time, money, and aggravation with these travel tips, designed to make your exploration more fun.

Tips and musings on writing in general and travel writing specifically

Destinations

Recently on TLT

Devils Tower is a Clerical Error and 14 Other Things You (Probably) Didn't Know

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Best Christmas Towns in the US

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How to Organize Photos & Videos from an Epic Road Trip (or any travels)

It was a dark and stormy afternoon.

Why You Need to Visit Kenosha, Wisconsin

I'm ashamed to admit that for nearly two decades, any time I'd head to Milwaukee I'd drive right by Kenosha, Wisconsin. Once or twice I stopped at Mars Cheese Castle. I flew past the Brat Stop.

The Making of Two Lane Gems: How to write a travelogue without losing your mind

I'm not freaking out. Nope. Not at all. I've got this, I say. I scribble it on my whiteboard in all caps. I'VE GOT THIS. I breathe deep. Pace. Pour a rum and diet.

Touring Southwest Michigan Wineries, Breweries, and More

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Traveling with your bicycle on a road trip gives you freedom and the opportunity to experience the places around you with all of your senses. And you don't have to be 20 to do it.

The Local Tourist Guides

We've been sharing things to do in Chicago for 16 years, so we know a thing or two about the Windy City.