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Columbus is a city built on bold ideas and fueled by relentless optimism. As a community, we tend to dream big. We let nothing stop us from turning today's dreams into better tomorrows. Explore all that’s possible when you Live Forward and discover the thrilling experiences available in Columbus.

Columbus' Summer Events Preview

The best places to see flowers in columbus, indoor family activities to beat the rainy-day blues, 24 reasons to visit columbus in 2024, 2024 ohioana book festival, classic for columbus 2024, kids as planet protectors: an earth day celebration, ohioana book festival, special exhibits, 700 studio nights, 934 april exhibition: aly elliott & loie greenwood, art of bangladesh, blooms & butterflies, brent elam at raw gallery, local restaurants, lgbtq+ columbus, join the delta skymiles® program for free to earn miles toward travel, upgrades and more. rules apply..

Insights on What to See and Do in Columbus, Plus a Seasonal Calendar of Events

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Travel Guides

5 do-it-yourself destinations in amish country.

The parts of our state that Ohio's Amish and Mennonite communities call home are infused with hard work and self-reliance. These destinations embody that do-it-yourself spirit.

Ohio Road Trips: 50 Places to Visit This Year

Whether you want to explore one location or visit points of interest across the state, gas up with our guide to dozens of destinations to experience. 

8 Great Ohio Birding Spots

Whether you’re a fledgling bird-watcher or have a veteran’s eagle eye, these locations along the Lake Erie shore and its islands should be on your list.

5 Old-School Arcades in Ohio

Whether you love the kinetic thrill of pinball or the beeps and blips of ’80s arcade favorites, these spots are loaded with retro fun.

4 Reasons to Visit Toledo This Year

Celebrate the legacy of the Jeep in the city where it was born, see paintings from renowned Italian painter Caravaggio and more. 

More Travel Features

Beautiful made-in-zanesville pottery returns home.

See "The Mark and Marie Latta Collection: Featuring Weller Pottery Co." at the Zanesville Museum of Art. READ MORE >>

11 Summer Stops in Akron and Summit County

With a great mix of downtown attractions and nature to explore, the Rubber City and the area surrounding it offer plenty of summer fun for the family. READ MORE >>

7 Ways to Explore Canton and Stark County

From the new Pro Football Hall of Fame Village to a revitalized downtown, this northeast Ohio city delivers a memorable summer getaway. READ MORE >>

10 Great Food Finds in Ohio’s Appalachian Region

From fried chicken to creative burgers to classic diner fare, check out these spots to grab a bite throughout Ohio’s Appalachian region. READ MORE >>

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Best places to visit in ohio.

Ohio is home to a wide range of attractions, from sprawling parks with stunning waterfalls to the Lake Erie shoreline to bustling cities and college towns. To help you decide where to go during your next trip to the Buckeye State, U.S. News took into account its diversity of attractions, affordability and outdoor offerings (as well as user input) to determine the best places to visit in Ohio. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Hocking Hills State Park

Cuyahoga valley national park, columbus, oh, port clinton.

With its stunning caves and breathtaking waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio is one of the state's most beautiful destinations for a romantic getaway or a family outing. Inside the park, you'll discover miles of hiking trails, including the Ash Cave Gorge and Ash Cave Rim trails, which lead to Ash Cave (the largest recess cave in Ohio). You can also follow the 6-mile-long Grandma Gatewood Trail from the welcome center to Old Man's Cave (one of Hocking Hills' most popular areas) before continuing on to Cedar Falls, where you'll find the park's largest waterfall by volume.

Head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park to enjoy a relaxing outdoor escape away from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities like Cleveland and Akron. During the warmer months, this national park offers 125 miles of hiking trails, as well as ample biking, fishing and kayaking opportunities, as well as fun kid-friendly activities, such as junior ranger programs and seasonal train rides. Plus, Cuyahoga Valley turns into a winter wonderland during the cooler months, drawing winter sports enthusiasts interested in spending their vacation snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or sledding.

Renowned author Charles Dickens once called Cincinnati "one of the most interesting [cities] in America," and after visiting, you'll have to agree. The riverfront city is home to several neighborhoods, each with their own distinct flair. Eden Park (a popular green space with 186 acres) is just outside of the picturesque Mount Adams neighborhood, while the historic Over-The-Rhine district is where you'll find Findlay Market, Music Hall and some of the city's best shops, bars and restaurants. While here, be sure to try some of Cincinnati's famous five-way chili.

Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a sports fanatic, a foodie or a combination of them all, Cleveland will appeal to you. The city's 18 parks offer everything from hiking trails to golf courses to a zoo, while Progressive Field is where you can watch the Cleveland Guardians play baseball. Other Cleveland must-dos include viewing the Cleveland Museum of Art's 61,000-plus works and learning more about music legends at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Don't leave without grabbing a bite to eat at the West Side Market.

Put-in-Bay, which sits less than 23 miles northwest of Sandusky and is accessible via ferry, is one of Ohio's most-visited Lake Erie islands. On Put-in-Bay, which is part of South Bass Island, visitors can take Island Transportation's Tour Train to get an overview of the island or explore attractions like Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center on their own. Those traveling with kids will also want to check out Perry's Cave Family Fun Center, which features a butterfly house, a miniature golf course, a rock climbing wall and a giant maze, among other amenities.

Ohio's capital city has no shortage of things to do. Active travelers will appreciate the miles of walking, jogging and bike trails available at the Scioto Mile. Nature lovers can spend a few hours exploring Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Architecture buffs can admire the charming buildings that comprise the historic German Village neighborhood (don't miss The Book Loft, one of the country's largest independent bookstores). Foodies won't want to miss dining at North Market, and art enthusiasts can visit galleries in the Short North Arts District.

The Maumee River meets Lake Erie in this northwestern Ohio city, so visitors can take to the water on The Sandpiper boat for a picnic lunch or sunset cruise or head to Maumee Bay State Park for its sandy beaches, trails and wetlands. Beyond its waterways, Toledo features engaging attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art, which is free to visit and holds 30,000-plus pieces, and the family-friendly Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Meanwhile, must-try food experiences include biting into a Hungarian hot dog from Tony Packo's and sipping local brews along the 419 Ale Trail.

Dayton is the birthplace of aviation, so it's hardly surprising that many of its main attractions focus on flying and the history behind it. At Wright Brothers Hill and the John W. Berry, Sr. Wright Brothers National Museum, visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of the innovative pilots and learn more about the first practical aircraft they created. Travelers will also want to check out Dayton's National Museum of the United States Air Force – the world's largest and oldest museum dedicated to military aviation history – and the National Aviation Hall of Fame for more aviation background.

Located along the banks of Lake Erie, Sandusky beckons to water lovers and thrill-seekers. In addition to boasting proximity to waterfront trails and beaches, the town is home to Cedar Point, an amusement park that features some of the world's tallest and fastest roller coasters. The attraction also offers rides designed for little ones, plus a sports center and a water park . Outside of Cedar Point, travelers will find additional family-friendly facilities, including the Merry-Go-Round Museum and Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Sandusky, the largest indoor water park in the state.

Water activities abound in this lakeside town, which sits roughly 40 miles southeast of Toledo. Port Clinton is known for its fishing, so anglers can set their lines to catch walleye. Meanwhile, recreation seekers can launch kayaks and canoes in Catawba Island State Park or take a ferry to the surrounding islands and Cedar Point amusement park. For those who like a bit more bustle on their vacation, Port Clinton always seems to have something going on, from various festivals and concerts throughout the summer to the Walleye Drop on New Year's Eve, a longtime local tradition.

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Marietta, OH

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Ohio town among 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation

• Updated: Apr. 10, 2024, 12:26 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 10, 2024, 12:21 p.m.

Buckeye Lake, Ohio, a village of less than 3,000 located about 35 minutes east of Columbus, is among the 15 best U.S. small towns for a summer vacation, according to Travel + Leisure. (Photo courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources) Ohio Department of Natural Resources

• Zach Mentz, cleveland.com

It’s just about time to start thinking ahead and planning your summer vacations.

Whether you’re seeking a bustling city, laid-back beach or open countryside, there are plenty of destinations to choose from across the U.S. But if you’re seeking a small town hidden gem, one city in Ohio is worth considering.

Buckeye Lake, Ohio, is one of the 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation, according to a report from Travel + Leisure. Located about 35 minutes east of Columbus, Buckeye Lake is a small village with a population of less than 3,000 that is named after Buckeye Lake. The village runs through both Fairfield and Licking counties while the lake runs through both of those counties as well as Perry County.

“You’d be hard-pressed to find a village that embodies classic Americana more than Buckeye Lake,” Travel + Leisure writes in its report . “With a population of about 2,800, it’s beloved for its serene lakefront atmosphere and seemingly endless water activities. For a home away from home, book a few nights in one of its beautiful lakefront cottages . Then, wake up refreshed and start the day with a jog or power walk along the four-mile-long Buckeye Lake Dam Walking & Biking Trail , preferably with a beverage from Millersport Coffee .

“Next, it’s into the pristine water you go. Try 3XP Tours ’ kayak-biking-brewery expedition that guides you on the lake, trails, and into some of the best breweries (and wineries and restaurants) around town. Or, skip the formal tour and rent a kayak or pontoon for the day and embrace lake life on your own. Wind down with a glass of wine at Buckeye Lake Winery or head to Weldon’s for ice cream.”

Top 10 best places to visit in Ohio, ranked, according to U.S. News & World Report

2 Ohio cities in Top 50 Must-Visit Destinations in 2024 by Forbes Advisor

Ohio beach named to Top 100 Secret Beaches list: See where

Buckeye Lake, Ohio, is one of two midwestern U.S. towns to make Travel + Leisure’s Best Small Towns for a Vacation list, along with Hermann, Missouri.

Travel + Leisure’s full list of the 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation can be found online .

Stories by Zach Mentz

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04/12/2024: Ohio's Travel Industry and Current Travel Research

Timing and potential changes in demand are key to pricing studies. Younger generations feel they will likely be better off financially compared to one year ago. Travel budgets among Gen Z averages high, with many planning trips 11 weeks out.

04/05/2024: Ohio's Travel Industry and Current Travel Research

Strong spending predicted in 2024, coupled with AI-powered personalization tactics for empowered consumers. One in four American travelers bring along pets during their leisure trips. Nearly two-thirds of these pet travelers are budgeting higher for bringing their furry ones along for the experience.

Updates 03/29/2024: Ohio's Travel Industry and Current Travel Research

Visitors intend to try new attractions in 2024 and skip the ones they saw in 2023. Economic situation may result in shorter trips with budget-friendly activities.

Updates 03/22/2024: Ohio's Travel Industry and Current Travel Research

Americans plan to visit family and friends more than in 2023. American travelers also give insight to how far and how long they plan to travel for the total eclipse. Convention and group travelers anticipate similar participation to last year, with Millennials being the leader in convention travel.

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Travel News

See university travel news below (and in these  archived NewsLink articles ). 

Travel Office Hours Summary (January-December 2024)

Fiscal year-end support: travel working lab.

See more information about the Travel Working Lab for FY-End

Join Us! Travel Information Session: Cash Advances

The University Travel Office is offering a special information session following our April Travel Office Hours to provide guidance and resources with requesting and reconciling cash advances for business travel.

Travel - Office Hours (monthly)

See more information about Travel Office Hours.

Join Us! Travel Information Session: Combining Business with Personal Travel

The University Travel Office is offering a special information session following our March Travel Office Hours to provide guidance and resources to assist with planning and arranging business travel that includes personal travel.

Training and Job Aids

Business Travel Discounts

Travel Resources

Ohio State Travel Office 8 am- 5 pm  (Mon-Fri) 614-292-9290 [email protected]

Tools & Resources

Travel training at buckeyelearn :, introduction to business travel at osu (online).

This 10-minute session is recommended for OSU employees who travel or employees who arrange travel for others. New employees or those with busy schedules will benefit from a brief, high level introduction to OSU Business Travel, with policy highlights, useful resources and directions on where to get help.  >> Go to Introduction to Business Travel at OSU

Business Travel Life Cycle Training (2 options) :

(ONLINE) This self-guided online curriculum is for employees who travel frequently or employees who routinely arrange and process travel on behalf of others. The curriculum is broken into 4 modules that cover the Travel Life Cycle. Learners can add all the modules to their transcript in one curriculum or complete each individually. Modules include:  Travel 1: Planning Business Travel (20 minutes); Travel 2: Requesting Business Travel Authorization (30 minutes); Travel 3: Booking and Arranging Business Travel (20 minutes); and Travel 4: Expensing Business Travel (25 minutes).  >>Go to ONLINE (Self-Guided) Business Travel LIfe Cycle

(LIVE AND INTERACTIVE)  This live and interactive course is for employees who travel frequently, employees who routinely arrange travel for others, and employees who administer business travel processes. The course is broken up into 5 segments and provides more comprehensive guidance to the Business Travel Life Cycle with live demonstrations and participant engagement. Participants can choose the attendance method that suits their preference: In-Person (Classroom) must bring own laptop or Virtual (Teams Meeting) must have Microsoft Teams application on laptop or PC with audio/video/chat capabilities.  >>Register for  LIVE AND INTERACTIVE (Virtual or Classroom) Business Travel Life Cycle

Workday   Additional Workday Job Aids are available at the Administrative Resource Center .

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University business travelers can realize negotiated discounts on published airfare through the carriers listed below when tickets are issued directly with the university’s contracted travel agencies .

Airport Parking - visit links below for rates and reservations for parking at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport:

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• National hotels may offer discounted rates for university business-related travel when booked with the  university’s contracted travel agencies .
• Local (Columbus area) hotels may offer discounted rates for university business-related travel.  See  Contract Book  for options.
• When making reservations inquire about educational institution or government rates (if applicable to the hotel franchise).  Be sure to check with the hotel before departure to ensure an OSU ID is acceptable form of government ID for check-in.  

Rental Car - th e university’s contracted suppliers for vehicle rental services include:  National Car Rental, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Hertz Car Rental.

• Before making a reservation, review the university's business vehicle rental  FAQ  and Business Rental Summaries for more information on benefits, insurance, international rentals and other general information.
• University business travelers should refer to the  Travel Policy  and other related policies prior to incurring vehicle rental expenses. Note:   University insurance requirements noted in the  Travel Policy  may not be included with international rentals.  Additional fees and insurance requirements may be applicable to the laws of the country/region.

To view rates, insurance details or make a business reservation, go to secured login: Rental Car Discounts .

Personal discounts for leisure travel may be found at Ohio State Human Resources (Buckeye Nation Rewards ) and are not monitored by the Ohio State Travel Office.  

Ground Transportation (Ride Services)

• Lyft offers a variety of transportation options through Ride Smart, Lyft Concierge, Lyft Pass and more.  Get more information .

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USA TODAY 10Best

Enjoy waterfront charm at the 10 best coastal small towns across the US

Best Coastal Small Town (2024) April 10, 2024

Big cities on the water have their perks, but these 10 coastal small towns — nominated by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best in the country — offer a calm and charm that is hard to find in more heavily populated areas. You can enjoy scenic views, historic attractions, delicious food, and plenty of things to do both on and off the water.

No. 10: Long Beach, Washington

Not to be confused with the Southern California city, Washington's Long Beach is just as relaxed, albeit with a different vibe (and somewhat chillier weather come winter). People-watch on the boardwalk, go birding or biking along their nature trails, take a leisurely lighthouse tour, check out the unique World Kite Museum, or just go restaurant-hopping — the choice is yours in this quaint seaside spot.

No. 9: Washington Island, Wisconsin

Trek to Wisconsin's Washington Island via car ferry and then let your adventure begin! Whether you do some biking and hiking, go back in time at the local history museums, or slow down to smell the lavender at Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm, you're bound to go home with plenty of marvelous memories of this delightful town.

No. 8: Cape May, New Jersey

This seaside town in the southernmost part of the Cape May Peninsula is a popular destination that's quieter and cleaner than its more boisterous cousin to the north, Atlantic City. Families love the free Cape May County Park and Zoo, as well as free summer movies on the beach, while couples might enjoy a sunset cruise, strolling through the various gardens and parks, and getting pampered at the local Cape May Day Spa.

No. 7: Sandusky, Ohio

This Ohio town on the coast of Lake Erie is home to Cedar Point — one of the top roller coaster-laden amusement parks in the country — but there's more to Sandusky than thrill rides. Visitors can enjoy learning more about the town's maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, visit scenic Shoreline Park, go on an island-hopping cruise, and dine at a number of top-notch waterfront restaurants.

No. 6: Newport, Rhode Island

This Rhode Island town has a little something for everyone, from breweries and wineries to regattas and Gilded Age mansions — and that's just the start. Go paddleboarding or sailing, visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame, hike along the Cliff Walk with gorgeous ocean views, or simply stroll about downtown to grab a bite and do some souvenir shopping.

No. 5: Pismo Beach, California

Located along California's Central Coast, Pismo Beach draws in plenty of visitors with its quiet beaches and array of wineries and outlet shopping. Other highlights to check out include Dinosaur Caves Park, the Monarch Butterfly Grove, and the award-winning boardwalk. You might also enjoy some fishing or surfing if you prefer to stay on the water.

No. 4: Gulf Shores, Alabama

Drive an hour west of Pensacola, Florida, and you'll find yourself in the midst of Alabama's best beaches aka Gulf Shores. Swim, surf, and sunbathe by the sea, and then check out some of the area's top attractions like Waterville USA, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo (home to sloths and kangaroos), and Gulf State Park. Visitors also love the multitude of beachfront restaurants.

No. 3: Key West, Florida

Key West boasts everything from conch train tours and six-toed cats to a bevy of bars and festivals, not to mention it's the southernmost point in the continental United States. This walkable Florida town is full of historic and coastal charm, with gorgeous white sand beaches and palm-tree lined streets. It's also home to a robust arts scene, a butterfly garden, an aquarium, and buskers a-plenty for year-round entertainment.

No. 2: Saugatuck, Michigan

This lakeside destination is home to award-winning beaches, spas, breweries, art galleries, and so much more. Whether you're looking for a wedding venue or a romantic place to renew vows, want to enjoy a fun wine tasting, or take an unforgettable family vacation with plenty of outdoor time, Saugatuck has it all.

No. 1: Stuart, Florida

Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with the impressive Roosevelt Bridge to its north, is the under-the-radar town of Stuart. Walk along the St. Lucie River at Flagler Park or Shepard Park, both great spots for picnicking, fishing, or otherwise relaxing. The Stuart Heritage Museum, Road to Victory Military Museum, and restaurant-lined downtown Stuart are all among the local attractions.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Allison tibaldi.

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based...   Read More

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles.  She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education.  She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly. 

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jonathon Stalls

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary...   Read More

Jonathon Stalls (he, his) is a multi-disciplinary "Walking Artist". Some of his creative work involves media/organizing with the Pedestrian Dignity project, hosting walking/rolling events and leader training with Walk2Connect (a program of America Walks), pen drawing, meditative practices, and more. He is the author of  WALK - Slow Down, Wake Up & Connect at 1-3 Miles Per Hour  (North Atlantic Books, Aug 2022). In 2010, he walked for 242 days across the U.S., walked el Camino de Santiago in 2012, and has continued to move, write, and create alongside a wide variety of longer-distance routes. Learn more:  www.IntrinsicPaths.com

Kirstie and Christine of On Airplane Mode Travels

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning...   Read More

Kirstie Pike and Christine Diaz are award-winning LGBTQ+ travel creators and trailblazers, using their platform, On Airplane Mode, to inspire others to follow their passions while celebrating their unique identities. With the leading LGBTQ+ travel platform in the US, they have a thriving community of over 650,000+ followers. The dynamic duo craft unique storytelling content that resonates with diverse audiences, sparking positive transformation within the travel industry, making it a more inclusive and vibrant space.

Kristen Lummis

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in...   Read More

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in Western Colorado. The mom of two now-adult sons, Lummis broke into her writing career through snowsports, founding the website  braveskimom.com  in 2010 to provide family-friendly tips across a full range of winter topics. And while skiing is Lummis’ first true outdoor love, she grew up camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and traveling extensively with her family — pursuits that she continues today. She prides herself on unbiased opinions, based on activities and destinations she’s visited and experienced. Lummis is honored to be considered an “expert” for 10Best. Follow her @braveskimom on Instagram and Facebook. 

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Melody Pittman

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Read More

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Wherever I May Roam Blog  and is co-owner of the Southern Travelers Explore annual conference, in its 4th year, which brings CVBS and writers/influencers together from all over the country. She is a digital influencer and writes for both online and print publications, such as Travel Awaits, Charleston Home and Living Magazine, Matador Network, She Buys Travel, and more. Melody has worked with major brands during her nine-year career, such as Viking River Cruises, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Disney, hundreds of tourism boards, and GO RVing.  Melody’s first book “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” was released in the spring of 2023. She has a podcast, 100ThingsWV, and social channels to go along with the book. Melody loves road trips, small towns, cruising, and sharing lesser-known destinations with her followers via TikTok , Youtube, IG , and FB . After a year of full-time RV travel, she now resides in Mesquite, Nevada. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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Best City Park (2024)

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Best Public Square (2024)

Best Main Street (2024)

Best Riverwalk (2024)

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