The Best Staycation in Every State

Traverse City, Michigan

Unsplash / Dennis Buchner

ADDRESS
Traverse City, MI, USA

WEB :Visit website

Alfresco adventures await throughout the stunning Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas all year long. Sitting pretty on Grand Traverse Bay's shorelines and anchored by the small town of Traverse City, this northern Michigan escape proposes plenty of water recreation, scenic drives through idyllic rolling hills dotted with cherry orchards, and several dozen different local wineries and breweries to discover.

 

In the summer, venture over to Lake Michigan to explore Leland's quaint fishing village, the magnificent Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the 20-mile Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. Snowshoeing, skiing, and fat-tire biking beckon visitors to come out and play even during the coldest winter months.

 

After spending some time in these great outdoors, shop along Traverse City’s charming Main Street and feast on the vibrant culinary scene, then hole up for the night in a waterfront hotel, a cozy inn, or a bucolic bed-and-breakfast. —Amy Lynch

Minneapolis, Minnesota

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ADDRESS
Minneapolis, MN, USA

WEB :Visit website

From a range of year-round outdoor activities to takeout from some of the best restaurants in the country, there's no need to hop on a plane when there's this much to explore in your own backyard.

 

Start your stay at the new Rand Tower Hotel, designed to honor Minnesota aviator Rufus R. Rand, which harkens back to its namesake’s day with Art Deco ambiance. Sip clever cocktails at Whiskey and Soda, named after the lion cubs kept by Rand’s World War I French Air Force unit.

 

Once you're hungry, chef Ann Kim, of Young Joni pizza fame, just opened Sooki & Mimi, which blends flavors from Mexico, South Korea, and Minnesota with wine and cocktail pairings. Or head across the river to St. Paul’s Union Hmong Kitchen for takeout until chef Yia Vang’s Vinai restaurant opens later this year.

 

Finally, get outside! Even when frozen, the Twin Cities’ lakes are home to everything from community-made ice carousels to kite skating. The Walker Art Center’s Sculpture Garden is free and open year-round. The Guthrie Theater’s open-to-the-public Amber Room overlooks the iconic Stone Arch bridge, providing unique views and exceptional photo ops. —Cinnamon Janzer