Although I have never taken a trip out of the country, I have been blessed to travel to many far off places within the U.S., mostly thanks to an organization called American Agri-Women, which holds a national conference in a different state every year. While I have traveled to various states, some of my favorite places are in my home state. So, I have compiled a list of my favorite places in the whole wide world (in the U.S. that is). Maybe I can convince you to plan your next trip to one of these places!
1. Bancroft, Maine
In 2009, most of my family took a trip to Maine to visit our friends. We had a blast whitewater rafting and kayaking down the river.
2. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg will always have a special trip in my heart because it was my family's first major family vacation. The Smokey Mountains are amazing!
3. The Grand Canyon in Arizona
We visited the Grand Canyon back in 2005 on the way home from an agriculture conference. The view was indescribable.
4. San Antonio, Texas
In 2008, some of my family went to an agriculture conference in San Antonio. The Alamo was right across from the hotel where we were staying. It was chilling to actually walk into the Alamo.
5. Monterey, California
In 2005, during another American Agri-Women conference, we stayed at a hotel on Monterey Bay. It was our first time seeing the Pacific, and it did not disappoint!
6. Chicago, Illinois
I visited Chicago last year on a college trip. I must say, if I were to live in a city, Chicago would be my go-to place!
7. The Two Sisters Books and More in Richmond, Indiana
I love collecting books, especially older ones! (Even though I do not end up reading many of them). Two Sisters Books and More, located in Richmond Indiana's Historic Depot District, is the perfect place to go. They sell all sorts of second hand books at inexpensive prices.
8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
I have taken a couple trips to Myrtle Beach, and it never gets old!
9. Washington, D.C
I have had the privilege of going to Washington, D.C. twice, both times through 4-H. The first time, I was one of two people from my county who were chosen to attend the Citizenship Washington Focus, a week long trip where teens are introduced to the United States Government firsthand. The second time was on a 4-H trip to President Obama's second Inauguration, which I enjoyed but would not want to do more than once (too many people in one place). Everyone should visit this place at least once in their lives!
10. Indian Hills 4-H Camp in Pleasant Hill, Ohio
If you are not involved in 4-H, you may have a tough time getting into the camp. Nonetheless, I had to include this on my list since my childhood basically revolved around 4-H camp. I and so many others cherish each camp memory we made.
11. The Preble County Fair in Eaton, Ohio
And my favorite place to go in the whole wide world is the Preble County Fair. County Fair time is the best time of the year. From seeing the joy on a Jr. Fair exhibitor's face when he or she wins the class to stuffing yourself with Bowman's Texas Tenderloins, the experiences are truly like no other. The Preble County Fair is held at the end of July every year. Check it out for yourself!
As you can see, you do not have to leave the country to find an exciting vacation idea. Sometimes, the best places to travel are practically in your backyard.
