Cleveland, Ohio, is a proud Midwest city perched on the shores of Lake Erie, offering a mix of culture, sports, history, and heart. Known for its deep industrial roots and musical legacy, Cleveland has redefined itself as a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re visiting museums, catching a game, or strolling the waterfront, you’ll find plenty to love in this underrated gem. So, pack your bags and head to the North Coast for a surprising and soulful getaway.

Interesting Facts

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Cleveland is the birthplace of the term “rock and roll” and home to this iconic museum that honors the genre’s greatest legends.
• Lake Erie Views: The city sits along one of the Great Lakes, offering beaches, boating, and beautiful sunsets over the water.
• Movie Magic: Scenes from classics like A Christmas Story and The Avengers were filmed in Cleveland. You can even visit the actual Christmas Story House.
• Historic Market: West Side Market has been serving Cleveland since 1912 and remains one of the oldest public markets in the country.

Useful Information

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) offer ideal temperatures and fewer crowds.
• What to Wear: Pack layers, especially if you’re visiting in spring or fall. Bring comfortable shoes for exploring downtown and waterfront areas.
• Getting Around: Cleveland’s RTA rail and bus system is reliable, but having a car can help if you’re venturing beyond downtown or the lakefront.

What to Do

• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Explore seven floors of exhibits showcasing rock legends, memorabilia, and interactive displays.
• Tour the Christmas Story House: Fans of the holiday classic can walk through the actual house from the film and even stay overnight.
• Walk Around University Circle: This neighborhood is home to several top attractions, including the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History.
• Catch a Game: Cleveland is a sports town—whether it’s the Guardians, Browns, or Cavaliers, the locals are passionate year-round.
• Relax at Edgewater Park: This lakeside park offers trails, picnic spots, and a sandy beach—perfect for a little outdoor downtime.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Image by Christopher Klein from Pixabay

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a city built on grit, innovation, and an unmistakable charm. Once known for its steel industry, this riverfront city has transformed into a vibrant destination full of history, culture, and scenic beauty. With its iconic bridges, world-class museums, and blue-collar heart, Pittsburgh has something for every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and come discover the bold spirit of the Steel City.

Image by Christopher Klein from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

• City of Bridges: Pittsburgh is home to 446 bridges—more than any other city in the world, including Venice, Italy.
• Three Rivers: The city sits at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, offering beautiful waterfront views and recreation.
• Home of Heinz: Pittsburgh is the birthplace of Heinz Ketchup, and you can explore its history at the Senator John Heinz History Center.
• Sports Legacy: Pittsburgh is one of the few cities where all major sports teams—Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins—share the same team colors: black and gold.

Image by Christopher Klein from Pixabay

Useful Information

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) offer pleasant temperatures and colorful scenery.
• What to Wear: Comfortable layers work best, especially if you’re walking around the hilly neighborhoods or riding the inclines.
• Getting Around: The city’s public transit system includes buses and light rail. The Downtown area is very walkable, and Uber or Lyft are easy options for getting around.

What to Do

• Ride the Duquesne Incline: Get panoramic views of the city skyline and rivers from atop Mount Washington on this historic cable car.
• Explore the Carnegie Museums: Dive into art, natural history, and science at the city’s renowned Carnegie Museum complexes.
• Walk Through PNC Park: Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, this riverside stadium offers some of the best views in Major League Baseball.
• Visit the Andy Warhol Museum: Discover the life and works of the pop art legend, born right here in Pittsburgh.
• Relax at Point State Park: Located where the three rivers meet, this downtown green space is perfect for picnics, walks, and photo ops.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Image by David Vives from Pixabay

New York City, New York, is a bustling metropolis where towering skyscrapers, world-famous landmarks, and diverse cultures come together. Whether you’re drawn to Broadway lights, Central Park strolls, historic neighborhoods, or iconic food, NYC offers an experience like no other. It’s a city that never sleeps and always has something new to discover. So, pack your walking shoes and get ready to explore the fast-paced charm of the Big Apple.

Image by Guy Percival from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

• Statue of Liberty: This iconic symbol of freedom was a gift from France in 1886 and greets visitors arriving by boat in New York Harbor.
• Central Park: Spanning 843 acres, Central Park is larger than the country of Monaco and offers everything from boating to live performances.
• Subway System: NYC has the largest public transit system in the U.S. with 472 stations, making it easy to get around the five boroughs.
• Cultural Diversity: Over 800 languages are spoken in New York, making it the most linguistically diverse city in the world.

Useful Information

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds at popular attractions.
• What to Wear: Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are a must. Bring layers since weather can shift quickly, especially between seasons.
• Getting Around: The subway is the most efficient way to travel around the city. Taxis, buses, and rideshares are also widely available.

Image by Tim from Pixabay

What to Do

• Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Take a ferry to these historic sites to learn about immigration and see NYC from the water.
• Stroll Through Central Park: Rent a bike, have a picnic, or explore landmarks like Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge.
• Explore the American Museum of Natural History: Perfect for all ages, this massive museum features dinosaurs, space exhibits, and world cultures.
• Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: Enjoy sweeping skyline views as you walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn on one of the city’s oldest landmarks.
• Catch a Broadway Show: See a world-class performance in the Theater District. Many theaters also offer same-day discounted tickets.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Image courtesy of Bureau of Land Management, FLICKR

Billings, Montana, is a rugged yet welcoming city nestled between the Yellowstone River and the sandstone Rimrocks. Known as the “Magic City” for its rapid growth in the late 1800s, Billings is a hub of outdoor adventure, Western history, and big sky beauty. Whether you’re in search of scenic drives, dinosaur fossils, or an authentic Montana experience, this city offers a little something for every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and head west for a one-of-a-kind trip to Big Sky Country.

Image courtesy of Bureau of Land Management, FLICKR

Interesting Facts

• The Rimrocks: Billings is bordered by stunning sandstone cliffs known as the Rimrocks, which offer breathtaking views of the city and Yellowstone Valley.
• Yellowstone River: It’s the largest city in Montana and the only one built directly on the Yellowstone River, providing endless opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic walks.
• Pictograph Cave State Park: Just a few miles outside the city, this park features ancient rock paintings dating back over 2,000 years.
• Dinosaur Trail: Billings is part of Montana’s Dinosaur Trail, a popular route featuring museums and dig sites that highlight the region’s prehistoric past.

Image courtesy of David Wilson, Flicker

Useful Information

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers warm weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
• What to Wear: Layers are key in Montana. Bring breathable clothing for warm days and jackets or sweaters for cool evenings, especially if you’re heading to higher elevations.
• Getting Around: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the area. Billings is spread out and surrounded by beautiful scenic routes worth driving.

What to Do

• Visit Pictograph Cave State Park: Explore trails and view prehistoric cave art that gives insight into the lives of Montana’s earliest residents.
• Walk the Rimrocks: Hike or drive up to the Rimrocks for incredible panoramic views and photo ops of the city below.
• Explore the Western Heritage Center: Dive into the rich culture and history of the Yellowstone River Valley through exhibits and rotating displays.
• Stroll Through ZooMontana: A charming zoo and botanical park that’s home to native and exotic species—perfect for families and nature lovers.
• Take a Scenic Drive to Red Lodge: Less than an hour away, this mountain town is the gateway to the Beartooth Highway, one of the most scenic drives in America.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Image by Mark Dawdy from Pixabay

St. Louis, Missouri, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and iconic landmarks. From its towering Gateway Arch to its deep-rooted blues and jazz music scene, St. Louis offers a unique blend of Midwestern charm and urban excitement. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone who loves the outdoors, this city has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the dynamic spirit of the Gateway City.

Image by Anonymous Traveller from Pixabay

Interesting Facts

• Gateway Arch: Standing 630 feet tall, the Gateway Arch is the tallest man-made monument in the United States and symbolizes the city’s role as the “Gateway to the West.”
• Baseball Legacy: St. Louis is home to the St. Louis Cardinals, one of Major League Baseball’s most successful and beloved teams.
• Historic Neighborhoods: The city boasts unique neighborhoods like The Hill, known for its Italian heritage and delicious cuisine, and Soulard, famous for its lively music scene and historic markets.
• The Anheuser-Busch Brewery: Visitors can tour one of the oldest and largest breweries in the U.S., famous for Budweiser beer and its iconic Clydesdale horses.

Image by Yinan Chen from Pixabay

Useful Information

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather and vibrant festivals, making these the ideal seasons to visit St. Louis.
• What to Wear: Dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s many attractions.
• Getting Around: St. Louis has a reliable public transit system including MetroLink light rail and buses. Renting a car is convenient for visiting attractions outside the city center.

Image by Jubilent from Pixabay

What to Do

• Visit the Gateway Arch: Take a tram ride to the top for breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. Don’t miss the Museum of Westward Expansion located beneath the arch.
• Explore Forest Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., Forest Park houses the St. Louis Zoo, the Saint Louis Art Museum, and the Missouri History Museum—all with free admission.
• Tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery: Experience the behind-the-scenes tour of this historic brewery, complete with tastings and a chance to see the famous Clydesdales.
• Stroll Through The Hill: Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and explore quaint shops in this charming neighborhood.
• Catch a Game at Busch Stadium: If you’re a sports fan, catch a Cardinals baseball game for an electric atmosphere and classic ballpark experience.

Related: Let’s Travel to Detroit, Michigan

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.

Image courtesy of Pixabay

Travel season’s rollin’ in fast, and we’re dustin’ off our “Let’s Travel To…” series! Today, we’re headin’ to the historic waterfront city of Baltimore, Maryland. Whether you’re into fresh seafood, maritime history, or local charm, Charm City’s got somethin’ for everyone.

📍 Where Is It?

Baltimore is nestled in the Mid-Atlantic, right along the Chesapeake Bay in northern Maryland. It’s just about 40 miles northeast of Washington, D.C., and known for its harbor views, crab cakes, and historic neighborhoods.

Image by Bruce Emmerling from Pixabay

🤔 Interesting Facts

• Baltimore is the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem.
• Edgar Allan Poe lived (and died) here. You can visit his grave and former home.
• It has more public monuments per capita than any other U.S. city.
• Baltimore’s distinct accent and dialect are often called “Baltimorese.”
• The city was once home to the world’s first dental school.

🎟️ What To Do

• Inner Harbor – This iconic waterfront area is packed with attractions like the National Aquarium, shopping, and dining.
• National Aquarium – A can’t-miss spot featuring sharks, dolphins, and a tropical rainforest—perfect for the whole family.
• Fort McHenry – Visit the star-shaped fort that inspired “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Loads of history and stunning views.
• Fell’s Point – Cobblestone streets, pubs, local shops, and live music in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.
• Camden Yards – Catch an Orioles game or just tour one of the most beautiful ballparks in the country.
• American Visionary Art Museum – One of the most unique museums you’ll ever see, filled with offbeat and inspiring works.
• Lexington Market – One of the oldest markets in America, known for authentic Baltimore eats like Faidley’s crab cakes.

Related: Let’s Travel to New Orleans, Louisiana

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren. This is the next installment in the Let’s Travel to…series, a collection of short informational articles covering some of the world’s top travel destinations.