The Local Tourist digs deep into destinations with passion and insight, focusing on culture, history, the great outdoors, and tips on how to enjoy it all.
HOW TO BE A LOCAL TOURIST
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.
RECENTLY ON THE LOCAL TOURIST
Read our latest adventures and tips.
Why McHenry County is the Perfect Place to be a Local Tourist
Why a new-ish resident has fallen in love with her home – and you will, too.
Why McHenry County is the Perfect Place to be a Local TouristRead More
Here it is: The Best Carry-on Luggage, Tested by a Seasoned Traveler
Change the way you travel with this 3-in-1 bag.
Here it is: The Best Carry-on Luggage, Tested by a Seasoned TravelerRead More
A First Timer’s Visit to Mythical, Magical Yellowstone National Park
Discovering the complex beauty of America’s first National Park.
A First Timer’s Visit to Mythical, Magical Yellowstone National ParkRead More
Behind the Vines at Easley Winery
Learn the story behind this family-owned business in downtown Indianapolis.
The Happiest Corner in Downtown Lafayette
Get the story behind a family-owned store that makes candy canes the old-fashioned way.
A Touch of Spain in Valparaiso, Indiana
Don Quijote Restaurante offers an authentic Spanish dining experience.
EXPLORE TWO LANE GEMS
Author Theresa L. Goodrich pens eyes-wide-open love letters to America in the Two Lane Gems book series.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Mother Nature’s a magnificent artist with limitless creativity. Step into her gallery and get some fresh air.
TRAVEL TIPS
Save time, money, and aggravation with these travel tips, designed to make your exploration more fun.
Driving the Depression-Era Daring of Beartooth Highway
This scenic drive is short and open only a few months out of the…
Driving the Depression-Era Daring of Beartooth HighwayRead More
Hit the Road with this Epic Southwest USA Road Trip
Dreaming of hittin’ the road? Ride along on this road trip romp and discover…
Hit the Road with this Epic Southwest USA Road TripRead More
Using Roadtrippers to Plan a Road Trip
Plan a road trip with Roadtrippers app and website. This tool makes planning a…
How to Choose Road Trip Destinations
Choosing road trip destinations can be difficult, but there are tips that make the…
How to take your bicycle on a road trip
You don’t have to be an athlete to take your bicycle on a road…
Essential Free Road Trip Apps
A seasoned road trip enthusiast shares her essential free road trip apps.
Travel Planning Secret Weapon: The Visitors Bureau
The Visitors Bureau is a Local Tourist’s best friend.
How to be a Local Tourist with TripAdvisor Attractions
TripAdvisor Attractions allows you to book attractions, tours, and experiences directly from their platform.…
How to be a Local Tourist with TripAdvisor AttractionsRead More
Ultimate Road Trip Planner
Experience the freedom of the open road with this Ultimate Road Trip Planner. Find…
TRAVEL THE U.S.A.
EXPLORE CHICAGO
Since 2002, we’ve been covering the Windy City. Visit our Chicago site to find things to do, restaurants, events, musings, and more.
THIS IS A HAPPY PLACE
Our philosophy is all about making the world a better place through meaningful and fun experiences.