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Around the Country

Trips & Routes
Unique Trips

13 Tropical U.S. Island Destinations You Can Visit Without a Passport

Your passport can stay in the drawer. These 13 tropical U.S. islands are ready when you are.

by Marisa Roman
on Jul 6
U.S. Virgin Islands, Caribbean. North over the clear blue waters of Hull Bay on the island of St. Thomas
State Pride

Instead of Banff, This Montana Town Is Where You Should Take Your Next Trip

by Kate Orlando
on Jul 5
Whitefish Mountain Resort viewed from the shores of Whitefish Lake in Whitefish, Montana.
Nature

Devil’s Hall Trail Sounds Scary, But It’s One of the Best Hikes in Texas

by Katie Lawrence
on Jul 4
Towering limestone walls rise above the rocky canyon floor at Devil's Hall on the Devil's Hall Trail in Texas.
Experiences

The Hidden Attraction in Virginia That People Still Seek Out to This Day

by Melanie Johnson
on Jul 3
A giant bust of George Washington surrounded by other former presidents in a park in Virginia.
Trips & Routes

Locals Love This Hidden Gem Swimming Hole in New York

by Lynnette Nicholas
on Jul 2
Waterfall at Fawn's Leap in the Catskill Mountains, and there's a beautiful waterfall flowing over rocks and pouring into a swimming hole.

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Instead of This, Do That
Ditch the more well-known travel spots for this spectacular gems.
State Pride

Instead of Harpers Ferry, This Wisconsin Town Is Where You Should Take Your Next Trip

Skip the crowds at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and discover this Wisconsin town offering similar charm, scenery, and experiences.

by Trent Jonas
Historic brick storefronts with green awnings along a sunny street corner in Mazomanie, Wisconsin.
State Pride

Instead of the Golden Gate Bridge, This Iowa Bridge Is Where You Should Take Your Next Trip

An Iowa bridge like the Golden Gate Bridge? For cyclists, the High Trestle Bridge near Madrid, Iowa is a perfect vacation spot close to home.

by Raymond Goldfield
A view of the stone pillars leading to the High Trestle Bridge in Madrid, Iowa.
State Pride

Instead of Boulder, This Ohio Town Is Where You Should Take Your Next Trip

Skip the crowds in Boulder and discover this Ohio town offering similar charm, scenery, and experiences.

by Jacki Mick
Scenic twilight view of Lancaster Ohio with low morning fog covering the valley town.

Hand-Picked

Discover a curated selection of our favorite travel gear and goods, hand-picked just for our readers.

Travel Goods
Travel Gear

19 Prime Day Deals on Products Our Editors Actually Use

by Marisa Roman
Amazon prime deal examples
Travel Goods
Travel Gear

Travel Expert’s Top 26 Must-Haves for 2026

by Only In Your State Staff
Collage of travel gear items
Travel Goods
Travel Gear

Hand-Picked: The Best Luggage, Carry-Ons, and Checked Bags

by Meg Archer
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Trips & Routes

Essential Gear You Actually Need to Pack for Your Next Outdoorsy Trip

by Joe Erbentraut
Outdoor gear spread out on blanket

Gem of the Week

Nature
Weather & Natural Phenomena

10 Best Places To See Bioluminescence In The U.S. (2026 Guide)

Tracking down these incredible natural wonders takes a little bit of patience and a clear, moonless night. But whether you’re paddling through glowing Florida waters or walking under a flashing canopy in the Smokies, standing in the middle of nature's own light show is a reward you'll never forget.

by Marisa Roman
Jul 6
Bioluminescence glowing blue along shallow shoreline water created by natural marine microorganisms at night.

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All Stories

Nature

One of the Most Beautiful Lakes in South Carolina Is Surprisingly Overlooked

Tucked away and often overlooked, this stunning lake in South Carolina offers incredible views and peaceful surroundings. Here’s why it’s worth the trip.

by Jackie Sutherlin
on Jul 8
A vier of Lake Warren through the trees, a hidden lake in South Carolina.
Nature
National & State Parks

Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Rollins State Park

Mountain adventures, historic landmarks, and a wonderfully unexpected telephone museum are just a few reasons to explore this small mountain town.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jul 8
Panoramic mountain view as seen from Mt. Kearsarge in New Hampshire.
Experiences
Events
Festivals

25 of the Best State Fairs in America to Visit This Summer and Fall

All 25 of these state fairs across the U.S. run in the second half of the year, which is exactly when state fair season hits its stride.

by Marisa Roman
on Jul 7
The aerial view of the Alaska State Fair with mountains in the background.
Trips & Routes

This Walkable Mountain City in Arkansas Is a Must-Visit Gem

Fayetteville is easy to explore on foot, with scenic views, local shops, and must-see attractions all within walking distance.

by Christy Articola
on Jul 7
Historic building on the University of Arkansas campus in Fayetteville, Arkansas
Trips & Routes

5 Charming Florida Towns Surrounded by Outdoor Adventure

Discover five charming Florida towns where outdoor adventure is always nearby, from scenic hiking trails and crystal-clear springs to kayaking and wildlife.

by Courtnie Erickson
on Jul 7
An empty hammock is hung over a grassy area near the shore of Lake Dora in Florida.