Frequent Traveler Identifies Top U.S. States for Revisit and Those to Skip

A frequent traveler and their spouse undertook extensive travels across 29 U.S. states last year, utilizing their remote work arrangements. This journey led them to distinguish certain states they are keen to experience again from others they feel they have explored sufficiently.

Michigan was highlighted as an underrated destination. During a month-long visit, the couple engaged in various outdoor activities, including a stroll through a tulip farm in Holland, a picnic at Saugatuck Dunes State Park, and sampling wines along a trail near Buchanan. Their time near the shores of Lake Michigan provided access to fresh seafood, lively boardwalks with unique shops, and pristine sands. The traveler noted that prices in Michigan seemed lower compared to many other coastal beach destinations. Future plans for Michigan include exploring Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Mackinac Island, known for its prohibition of cars.

South Dakota offered experiences beyond Mount Rushmore. The traveler particularly enjoyed Custer State Park, describing it as offering some of the best views in the Black Hills, and observed diverse wildlife such as coyotes, prairie dogs, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bison. Less than two hours away, Badlands National Park presented a distinct landscape of buttes and towering rock spires. Stops in small towns included the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, an active excavation where over 60 mammoth remains have been unearthed.

Vermont was praised for its picturesque small towns, with Stowe singled out for its specific charms. Activities in Stowe included visiting shops, riding a gondola to the top of Mt. Mansfield, and enjoying a drink at the Von Trapp Brewery. The state's dairy industry also left a strong impression, with numerous towns offering creative cheese varieties. A visit to the Ben & Jerry's Factory in Waterbury featured a tour, ice cream, and the distinctive "Flavor Graveyard."

On the other hand, West Virginia, while beautiful, was deemed a state where the traveler felt they had seen the primary highlights. The couple spent several days driving through the state, exploring hiking trails and abandoned mills. Noteworthy moments included visits to Sandstone Falls and the 3,000-foot bridge in New River Gorge National Park. However, after experiencing the natural attractions, the state’s predominantly rural character offered fewer alternative activities that aligned with their interests for a return visit.

Idaho was also mentioned as a state where the traveler felt they had experienced the highlights and would likely not revisit anytime soon. (Source: Business Insider)