Let's consider which destinations typically offer the greatest variety within a relatively condensed space. Do any cities come to mind?
City destinations are wonderful places to explore museums, shop, experience live entertainment, or attend a sporting event. This gives cities the edge when it comes to satisfying large travel parties, especially when everyone's interests vary. However, there are downsides to this type of travel planning.
City visitors often overlook smaller destinations that usually focus on specific activities. This is what makes these smaller destinations great—they concentrate on what sets them apart. People who primarily visit places with a variety of attractions often miss out on the wonderful array of smaller destinations. Yes, these places tend to specialize heavily in one or a few types of activities. But, that's the point.
Traveling to smaller destinations that focus all their time and attention on what makes them shine creates a magical experience for the traveler. You should visit these places, and the best way to do so is through the hub and spoke travel circuit.
The hub and spoke travel circuit is an engaging and strategic way to explore new places. It begins with a flight to a conveniently located airport, ideally on a non-stop route. You start your adventure by spending a night in the major city, allowing you to acclimate and rent a car for the journey ahead. This city serves as your hub, from which you'll venture to various smaller, unique destinations within a day’s drive.
For the next 2 to 3 nights, immerse yourself in a few locations, discovering the distinctive features and attractions that each has to offer. This approach not only enriches your travel experience but also deepens your appreciation for the diverse cultures and landscapes of the region.
After exploring the smaller spokes, return to your hub city for one final night. We highly recommend booking a memorable activity or experience for this last evening. This concept, known as the peak-end rule, suggests that the final memories of a trip can significantly influence your overall perception, enhancing your enjoyment and leaving you with lasting impressions. Fly home the next morning, filled with unforgettable memories.
Why choose this travel style? Venturing past the threshold of the major city-destination not only broadens your horizons but also keeps you engaged and actively participating in your journey. Additionally, by visiting smaller destinations, you contribute to their economies, which often rely heavily on tourism. Traveling is about embracing adventure—what better way to do so than by uncovering hidden gems that many others may overlook? Discover the thrill of unique experiences and make your next trip truly remarkable.
Determine what region you can fly to easily and fly into the largest city in that region. To make this even easier and cost effective, we recommend non-stop flights.
The city you fly into is your hub destination.
Look for small destinations within an easy driving distance of the airport. We tend to look for places within a 2-3 hours drive. Note that some areas of the United States will require more driving like the western half and that is fine. The key here is to make sure you can reach the first spoke in a half day.
Try to identify at least 2 potential places that fit this criteria. You'll want to be able to filter down what works best for you later on.
Next, look for 3 to 5 interesting places scattered throughout the region. Use Google Maps, TripAdvisor, Road Trippers, or any other set of tools to learn about these places. We have complied a colossal list of places to explore for each state.
Now look at each place on your list. Go to the their destination website and find what is most prominently featured and write that down. That is the activity, attractions, or best thing to do in that place.
After you write down the activities you want to do, note what is unique and what you absolutely must do.
The goal of this step is as the name implies, to connect the dots. For this next step, create a map - it does not have to be fancy. We use Google Maps.
Plot each destination you researched. In the process, you will notice that some things are easier to get to than others. Eliminate stops that are would require a full day of travel (6 hours is our limit) - unless the destination is so unbelievable that you would regret not going. Then you should keep it in your consideration.
You will likely find a simple path that allows you to experience the greatest breadth of experiences and sights in the shortest time possible.
Plan to do one activity per day and leave at least half of the day open in your schedule. This allows you buffer time to explore.
We recommend filtering down to 2 to 3 places (spokes) to visit on your trip.
The trip does not end at the last spoke, because you will need to return the rental car, and fly home.
Instead of driving straight to the airport from the last spoke destination, we recommend spending a day or half-day in the hub city. During this time, you should do the best thing for you. Find an experience that makes the city shine and you excited. Stay in a nice, interesting, unique, or otherwise fantastic hotel. Dine at the best restaurant or must-eat establishment. You just spent 2+ nights in a smaller places and now you should experience the culture of a larger destination in it's best form.
Ending on a high-note increases the chances that you will return inspired and have fond memories of the trip.
