It seems if the initials NY, LA, or DC aren’t in the title, most people just don’t want to go there, but in fact there’s brilliant fun to be had in just about every nook and cranny of this country, and just because a town is in the mid or southwest, it doesn’t mean you can’t have the leisure getaway of a lifetime. Discover five getaway destinations that you might not have thought of but, after a visit, you won’t ever be able to forget.

Chicago, Illinois

As well-known a city as Chicago may be, it’s surprisingly overlooked by the tourism market at large, and with so many incredible family and leisure attractions in Chicago and the North Shore area, it’s really a shame. Along with plenty of reasonable Chicago lodging options along the North Shore, Chicago provides a diverse wealth of attractions unrivaled by most other major cities. Please consider:

Chicago Botanic Gardens – Nine unique islands make up one of the most visited public gardens in the world. Opened in 1972, this sprawling 385-acre oasis and botanical research center adds a hint of serenity and balance to any vacation. And best yet, it’s absolutely free!

Sears Tower – An obvious choice, but unavoidable nonetheless, the tallest building in the western hemisphere offers a breathtaking view from its 103rd floor Sky Deck that is unchallenged by any other in the country. From a single room, see Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

Navy Pier – Once a genuine shipping pier for the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is now an immensely popular family entertainment destination that offers stunning fireworks displays, a humungous Ferris Wheel, charming lake cruises, delicious carnival concessions and so much more.

Recommended Chicago area hotel: Doubletree Chicago / Schaumburg

Phoenix, Arizona

Scenic views, refreshing desert air, and several lush championship-style golf courses make the Phoenix-Scottsdale area the ideal vacation destination for golfers and other leisure travelers. Consider:

Phoenix Golf – A legendary golf destination for a reason, Phoenix offers a remarkable selection of fine private, semi-private, and public golf courses that cater to any skill level and any budget. The dry Arizona air and minimum of rainfall makes Phoenix a golfer’s paradise year-round.

Spring Training – Another major draw in Phoenix is the Cactus League’s official spring training beginning every February, and you shouldn’t miss out on the action. Come see 13 MLB franchises including the Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Texas Rangers in a festive atmosphere.

Recommended Phoenix hotel: Embassy Suites Phoenix-Scottsdale

Cleveland, Ohio

Nestled away in the middle United States, Cleveland would seem easy to overlook, but that hasn’t stopped thousands from visiting every year. Consider:

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – One of the most popular museums in the United States, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is Cleveland’s feature attraction, celebrating the lives and legacies of some of music’s most outrageous personalities. The museum features regular historical exhibits as well as a top-floor display celebrating the given year’s inductees.

Great Lakes Science Center – Another sublime family stop, the Great Lakes Science Center presents an interesting and accessible scientific focus on the role modern technology plays in the environment. Rotating exhibits and an impressive Omnimax theatre make for a fulfilling day of fun and education.

Recommended Cleveland, Ohio hotels: Embassy Suites Cleveland - Rockside

Dallas, Texas

They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and when you visit “The Big D”, that includes the fun. Distinct cultural attractions, heart-pounding sports, stellar theme parks and so much more define the Dallas vacation experience. Consider:

The Dallas Arts District – In downtown Dallas near the historic West End you’ll find a sprawling collection of unique performance and traditional arts venues in league with the country’s finest. From the vast modern art displays of the Dallas Museum of Art to the incredible shows of the Meyerson Symphony Center, a refined afternoon or evening of entertainment is always close by.

Dallas Nightlife – a safe but trendy atmosphere makes the Dallas nighttime scene an ongoing event. From popular comedy clubs downtown to mood-setting bars along Greenville Avenue and Deep Ellum, there’s always something to discover.

Six Flags Over Texas – The original, and still finest, Six Flags theme park proves the perfect choice for a family getaway. Don’t miss the Texas Giant, at one time the tallest wooden roller coaster in the world.

Recommended Dallas hotel: Doubletree Dallas-Campbell Centre

Tampa, Florida

Travel to Miami for that southern coast fun in the sun and you’ll pay an arm and a leg for it. Tampa, Florida offers access to beautiful beaches and festive clubs as well as popular family entertainment spots for a fraction of the price. Fly into Tampa International Airport, among the country’s highest-rated, and consider these Tampa attractions:

Clearwater & St. Pete Beach – Stunning white sand beaches highlight these increasingly-popular coastal tourist cities. Enjoy fun in the sun for half of the sum.

Busch Gardens – A theme park, zoo, and water park all in one, Busch Gardens is an obvious choice for families visiting Tampa. Over 2700 animals fill the Gardens’ distinct wildlife exhibits, and in an unusual twist, those exhibits are paired up with fearsome roller coasters and gentler family rides. Adventure Island, an associated water park, is located adjacent to the main park.

International Plaza and Bay Street – Upscale shopping including Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus make up the Plaza while Bay Street is populated by original boutique shops and exquisite café dining options.

Recommended Tampa Airport hotel: Embassy Suites Tampa Airport/Westshore

About the Author:

Steven Mayo is a content specialist for Worldwide Revenue Solutions, an Internet marketing company that specializes in service to the hospitality industry.


Tags: western hemisphere, popular family, sears tower, nook and cranny, ferris wheel