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

Schwinn bicycles on island in Fox River, Elgin

Back on the Bike: Planning for Bike Travel When It's Been Awhile...

Recently I met several couples who were in Ridgeland, Mississippi for a tandem bicycle rally. During this event, they'd ride anywhere from 25 to 65 miles each of the three days. They were all my age...

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.

Destinations

Recently on TLT

More Than Southern Charm: A Remarkable and Complex Weekend in Ridgeland, Mississippi

You might say I'm a wee-bit Type-A. I want everything organized. I feel a jolt of glee every time I check a color-coded box - and it is always color-coded.

Writer's Route: How to Handle Rejection

We walked into the bookstore. It was the same one I'd entered a year and three months prior, the one where, for the first time, I envisioned my book on a shelf.

Celebrating Spring at Biltmore Blooms: 32 Photos That Will Make You Want to Visit

One of the most spectacular places in the US is the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

Travel Planning Secret Weapon: The Visitors Bureau

With all of the tools at our fingertips nowadays, travel planning is simultaneously easy and overwhelming.

13 Reasons You Should Visit Lafayette Indiana

The Midwestern cities of West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana, are home to Purdue University, but they also have much more to offer than a college experience. Check out these reasons to visit Lafayette.

Passion and Pride at Bruno's Pizza and Big O's Sports Room

Bruno's Pizza and Big O's Sports Room in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a must-visit if you like pizza, sports, and family-owned businesses.

The Elegant and Rustic Wildcat Creek Winery

Why you should visit this elegant and rustic winery in Lafayette, Indiana, featuring local and regional varietals.

Purdue University: Touring the House that John Built

Unless you're a Hoosier (a.k.a. current or former resident of Indiana), if you've heard of West Lafayette, Indiana, it's likely because of Purdue University.

Finding ALL the Things To Do in Wichita in 41 Hours (or trying to, at least)

On our drive through Arizona we’d felt like soggy versions of Pig-Pen, stalked by rain inste

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.