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10 Ways to Find Cool Places Near You (& Plan the Perfect Staycation!)

Last Updated: February 26, 2021

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With global travel still an uncertainty these days, I’ve learned more than ever to embrace local adventures near me…

Which in Christina terms means I’ve become utterly obsessed with researching all the weirdest, most unique places I can visit within a few hours of my apartment.

I’m lucky to live in Munich , a city that is swimming in hidden gems and plenty of mountains, lakes, castles and villages within 2 hours in each direction.

And while I thought I knew the area well already, quarantine has given me a chance to dig deeper and find unique places that make even born-and-bred Bavarians go “wtf?”

Save this guide to finding local hidden gems for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

So, I would say there is definitely a science to discovering hidden gems, and I’m confident that if you know where to look, you’ll be able to find awesome spots near you too.

To help you out, in this post I will be sharing some of my best tips for finding unique & cool places to explore locally, no matter where you live.

1. We’ll start simple. Use Google… but here’s what to search!

I’m sure by now you already know how to use Google, but there are certain tricks you can use to find cool places to visit nearby…

Beyond just what Page 1 results like TripAdvisor and Culture Trip are recommending.

Here are some tips:

Start with searching “cool places near me” or variations of this.

If you didn’t already know, often Google will localize your search results, which means typing in terms like “cool stuff to do near me” will yield results that are tailored to your current location.

Depending on where you’re located, this will help get you started with some helpful resources, articles and blogs that feature cool places to visit near where you live.

Google “destination + hidden gems” or “destination + secrets”.

This will narrow your search down to more interesting, lesser known places.

Google “destination + local blog”.

Many large cities these days have entire websites dedicated to providing tips to locals.

I myself run one for Munich!

These are the websites you should be looking for if you want to find cool spots to explore nearby, beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

2. Use Google Maps to your advantage

Google Maps has gotten a lot smarter over the years, and these days, the amount of information it gives is honestly mindblowing…. if you know what to search, that is.

One thing I like to do on Google Maps is type in a generic search term like “Landmarks”, which will pull up a list of interesting spots in the area.

Many of them will be ones you’re familiar with, but often you’ll find some lesser known gems too!

For instance, I just did this and found a museum that I had no idea existed only a few blocks away from me. Other good search terms include “Viewpoints”, “Hidden Gems” and “Attractions”.

3. Visit the local tourism board website

I know that as a local, it can feel weird to visit the tourism board website of your own region, BUT these sites are seriously treasure troves of knowledge with comprehensive listings of all the cool things to do in a certain place.

Sure, they’re not often the sleekest or “coolest” websites around, but they’re also often not heavily optimized for search engines, which means much of their content can be missed with a simple Google search.

So, if you want to find more obscure gems from your local area, make sure to visit the tourism board’s website.

I promise you’ll uncover something you never knew existed!

These are usually easy to find as well, just search up “your area + tourism board”.

You should be able to find ones for your local city, state/province, as well as country.

4. Snoop Instagram accounts of local tourism boards and influencers

I’m a visual person, and far prefer SEEING cool places to visit near me vs. reading about them.

While Pinterest can sometimes be handy for this, I get frustrated with the lack of helpful information in Pinterest captions, along with lots of photos which are clearly very very Photoshopped.

Before I ever travelled for myself, I genuinely thought the Isle of Skye in Scotland had purple trees because of Pinterest. I was highly distraught to learn this wasn’t the case.

A great resource for finding new unique spots though is Instagram!

You just have to be strategic about it.

For starters, I highly recommend finding the official Instagram account of your city, state/province, and country tourism boards.

These accounts always feature the best of the best in terms of photos/destinations, and because their job is to specifically promote the heck out of their region, they often showcase lesser known spots too.

I use the “Save” function on Instagram to collect all these spots and sort them into folders as well for ease of browsing later.

I also like to star the locations on Google Maps so I can start to see which spots are close together, and plan a trip around that.

Unsurprisingly, I have a LOT of stars (and hearts!)

5. Find local influencers and photographers to follow

Local travel will definitely be the norm for a little while, so odds are there are a lot of other people in your area who are also seeking local adventures.

One great way to garner inspo then is to follow and snoop the heck out of these fellow adventurers!

Shameless plug note: if you live in Munich or Bavaria, follow me here – I have lots of cool adventures planned!

But now you might be wondering, where do you find these magical local people to snoop on? Here are some tips!

Google “your city/state + blogger”.

The key here is to find bloggers who focus on specific areas or bloggers who are local to that place because they’re more likely to showcase places that are more off the beaten path.

See who is being featured frequently on tourism board/local feature accounts.

The majority of tourism boards source their content from local photographers and influencers anyway, same with generic feature accounts, so find some for your city and then see who is being credited or tagged in the caption.

Look through photography hashtags for your region.

More on this below…

6. Snoop through niche hashtags on Instagram

Clearly, I’m a big fan of using Instagram as a research tool and one very underrated research tool I love is hashtags!

Hashtags are a great way to discover new content, but you need to use them properly.

Here’s how to actually use hashtags to discover unique places near you: the key is to avoid really generic hashtags like #munich or #germany – I’ve found that these are usually flooded with selfies and blurry brunch pics.

Instead, you should be looking through local photography hashtags that only local content creators know about/use.

The best way to find these hashtags is to see what hashtags your favourite creators are already using!

Often accounts will add all their hashtags in the comments as well, so be sure to snoop around and discover niche hashtags to flip through, and potentially find new accounts to follow as well.

In Munich for instance, I’ve found that #SimplyMunich and #MeinMünchen are great hashtags to discover new interesting places.

7. Find unique places to stay near you on Airbnb

Craving a staycation?

Another way to adventure close to home is to find somewhere really unique to stay.

Imagine sleeping in a lighthouse, castle or windmill nearby… that’d be pretty awesome right?

Well, one awesome tool I’ve discovered recently are the search filters on Airbnb, which allow you to find unique accommodations juuuuust like those.

What you’ll want to do is search up the area you’re looking at, then click “More Filters” and navigate down to the “Unique Stays” section.

Here, you can check off boxes for unique kinds of accommodation like treehouses, castles, tiny houses, huts, trains, boats, anything.

You never know what you might find in your area! By doing this I was able to find this LEGO treehouse and a literal survival house built of twigs and leaves . Wild stuff.

8. Buy a Book dedicated to your area

As a blogger who spends 90% of her time online, I tend to forget the huge depth of information out there that exists in print.

I was so surprised to learn one day while doing research that there have been loads of amazing books written about my area, filled with hidden gems and unique spots.

I bought a few right away, including a book that is 100% dedicated to secret locations in Munich…. and one about beer gardens.

Depending on where you’re from, I bet there’s at least one or two books out there that are dedicated to unique places in your area, so be sure to do a quick search.

There’s just something so satisfying about having a physical book to flip through!

9. Get ideas from Atlas Obscura

One of my favourite websites to check whenever I’m planning a trip is Atlas Obscura .

Their focus is wondrous and unique locations that are not necessarily the most typical tourist sights, so imagine things like secret hidden museums, or chapels made out of bones, and other wonderful, mildly morbid things that are quite different to what most guidebooks would recommend.

I’m a huge sucker for quirky, unexpected places so I am addicted to this website and will check it whenever I’m planning a trip.

This would also be a great resource if you are looking for cool places in or near your hometown that you may have never heard of before.

10. Get tips from Spotted by Locals

Last but not least, Spotted by Locals is an interesting site that relies on local know-how to create city guides mainly in Europe and North America.

I like that they employ local writers to share their expertise, which means you won’t be getting any generic tips about the city’s most popular attractions.

Instead, you’re getting insight into local gems and places that would be more interesting to you as a local, or someone from the area.

Any more tips for finding cool things to do near you?

Let me know in the comments if you have any other recommendations! Happy wanders!

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🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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What to do if you get an alert that an AirTag, Find My network accessory, or set of AirPods is with you

AirTag lets you easily track things like your keys, wallet, purse, backpack, luggage, and more. Simply set it up with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch and attach it to your item, and your AirTag shows up in the Items tab in the Find My app.

AirTag and devices that are part of the Find My network accessory program , and some AirPod models—AirPods (3rd generation), AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max—use the Find My network to help you keep track of and find your belongings.* After you set up a compatible item, it shows up in the Devices or Items tab in the Find My app.

AirTag, AirPods, and other Find My network accessories include features to guard against unwanted tracking. They should not be used to track people, and should not be used to track property that does not belong to you. Using these products to track people without their consent is a crime in many countries and regions around the world. If an AirTag, set of AirPods, or Find My network accessory is discovered to be unlawfully tracking a person, law enforcement can request any available information from Apple to support their investigation.

AirTag, AirPods, and Find My network accessories are designed to protect your privacy when you're using them to keep track of important items. They have unique Bluetooth identifiers that change frequently. The Find My network uses end-to-end encryption and is built with privacy in mind.

Learn more about Find My and Privacy

Unwanted tracking

If any AirTag, AirPods, or other Find My network accessory separated from its owner is seen moving with you over time, you'll be notified in one of two ways. These features were created specifically to discourage people from trying to track you without your knowledge.

If you have an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, Find My will send a notification to your Apple device. This feature is available on iOS or iPadOS 14.5 or later. To receive alerts, make sure that you:

Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services, and turn Location Services on.

Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services. Turn Find My iPhone on.

Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services. Turn Significant Locations on to be notified when you arrive at a significant location, such as your home.

Go to Settings > Bluetooth, and turn Bluetooth on.

Go to the Find My app, tap the Me tab, and turn Tracking Notifications on.

Turn off airplane mode. If your device is in airplane mode, you won't receive tracking notifications.

An AirTag, AirPods Pro (2nd generation) charging case, or Find My network accessory that isn't with its owner for a period of time will emit a sound when it's moved.

If you detect an unknown AirTag, Find My network accessory, or AirPods, use the steps below to learn about it, find it, and disable it. If you're using an Android device, you can download the Tracker Detect app to find an AirTag or Find My network accessory that's separated from its owner and might be traveling with you.

If you see an alert

If you see one of the following alerts on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, an item compatible with the Find My network could be traveling with you, and the owner might be able to see its location. This could be an AirTag, AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, or a Find My network accessory from manufacturers other than Apple .

It's possible that the AirTag or Find My network accessory might be attached to an item you're borrowing, or you might get this alert if you’re borrowing someone else’s AirPods. If you're borrowing an AirTag or another item compatible with the Find My network from a member of your Family Sharing group, you can turn off alerts for that item for one day, or indefinitely.

If an AirTag that's separated from its owner is seen moving with you over time, or if your iPhone is awake and an AirTag that isn't with its owner for a period of time emits a sound to indicate that it has moved, this alert is displayed: AirTag Found Moving With You.

Find My displays a map of where the AirTag, Find My network accessory, or set of AirPods has been observed with you. The red dots show where the unknown item was detected near your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The dashed lines connecting the red dots help indicate the sequence where the item was detected with you. The red dots do not indicate when the item's owner is viewing the item's location.

If AirPods that are separated from their owner are seen moving with you over time, one of these alerts is displayed: AirPods Detected, AirPods Pro Detected, or AirPods Max Detected.

If a Find My network accessory that's separated from its owner is seen moving with you over time, this alert is displayed: "Product Name" Detected (where "Product Name" is the name of the Find My network accessory that has been detected).

If AirPods or a Find My network accessory is detected but the Find My app has issues connecting to them or to the server at that time, this alert is displayed: Unknown Accessory Detected. This alert will display only if a set of AirPods or a Find My network accessory is detected near you, not an AirTag. These could be borrowed AirPods, or AirPods inadvertently left behind by a friend or family member.

Find the unknown AirTag, AirPods, or Find My network accessory

If you get an alert that an AirTag, AirPods, or another Find My network accessory is traveling with you, follow these steps to find it. First, check on the Find My app if you're able to play a sound on the unknown accessory:

Tap the alert.

Tap Continue and then tap Play Sound.

Listen for the sound. You can play it again if you need more time to find the item.

If the option to play a sound isn't available, the item might not be with you anymore. Or if it was with you overnight, its identifier might have changed. Find My uses the identifier to determine that it's the same item moving with you. If the item is within range of its owner, you also won't be able to play a sound.

If the unknown accessory is an AirTag and you have a supported iPhone model with Ultra Wideband , you can also tap Find Nearby to use Precision Finding to help you locate the unknown AirTag.

Tap Continue, then tap Find Nearby.

Follow the onscreen instructions and move around the space until your iPhone connects to the unknown AirTag.

Your iPhone displays the distance and direction to the unknown AirTag. Use that information to get closer to the unknown AirTag until you find it.

If the option to play a sound isn't available or you're unable to hear the sound, or if you can't locate the item with Precision Finding, and you believe the item is still with you, look through your belongings to try to find it. Check on your person, or in anything in your possession that could contain this device. It could be in an item that you don’t check often, like a jacket pocket, the outer compartment of a bag, or your vehicle. If you can't find the device and if you feel your safety is at risk, go to a safe public location and contact law enforcement.

If you hear an AirTag emitting a sound

To alert people nearby, any AirTag separated for a period of time from its owner will emit a sound when it's moved. If you find an AirTag after hearing it make a sound, you can use any device that has NFC, such as an iPhone or Android phone, to see if its owner marked it as lost and if you can help return it. If you feel that this AirTag or Find My network accessory might be tracking people without their consent, you can get instructions on how to disable it.

Get information about or disable an AirTag, Find My network accessory, or set of AirPods

If you have found an unknown AirTag, you can follow these steps to see information about it, or to disable it:

If you have found an AirTag, hold the top of your iPhone or NFC-capable smartphone near the white side of the AirTag until a notification appears.

Tap the notification. This opens a website that provides information about the AirTag, including its serial number and the last four digits of the phone number of the person who registered it. This can help you identify the owner, if you know them. You might want to take a screenshot to make sure that you can document the information.

If the owner marked the AirTag as lost, you might see a message with information about how to contact the owner.

To learn more about a set of AirPods, or Find My network accessory that’s been separated from its owner, scroll to the bottom of the Items tab, then tap Identify Found Item.

If you need to see a list of all AirTag and Find My Network accessories about which you have been notified, launch the Find My app on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Tap Items. Scroll to the bottom and tap Items Detected With You. Items that have recently triggered an unwanted tracking alert will be listed. If the option to play a sound isn't available, the item might not be with you anymore, might be near its owner, or if it was with you overnight, its identifier might have changed.

To disable the AirTag, AirPods, or Find My network accessory and stop it from sharing its location, tap Instructions to Disable and follow the onscreen steps. After the AirTag, AirPods, or Find My network accessory is disabled, the owner can no longer get updates on its current location. You will also no longer receive any unwanted tracking alerts for this item.

If you feel your safety is at risk, contact your local law enforcement, who can work with Apple to request information related to the item . You might need to provide the AirTag, AirPods, Find My network accessory, and the device's serial number.

Disabling the Find My network on your device, turning off Bluetooth, or turning off Location Services on your iPhone will not prevent the owner of the AirTag, AirPods, or Find My network accessory from being able to see the location of that AirTag or accessory. You must disable the item by following the instructions above.

Check for nearby AirTag or Find My network accessories with an Android device

If you use an Android device, you can download the Tracker Detect app from the Google Play Store. Tracker Detect looks for item trackers within Bluetooth range that are separated from their owner and that are compatible with Apple's Find My network. These include AirTag and compatible item trackers that use the Find My network. If you think someone is using an AirTag or another item tracker to track your location, you can scan to try to find it. If the app detects an AirTag or compatible item tracker near you for at least 10 minutes, you can play a sound to help find it.

Go to Google Play to download the Tracker Detect app

Additional resources

If you feel that your safety is at risk, these additional resources might be helpful:

In the United States: The Safety Net Project at the National Network to End Domestic Violence and the National Center for Victims of Crime

In the United Kingdom: Refuge UK

In Australia: WESNET Safety Net Australia

* The Find My network isn't supported in South Korea.

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

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Top picks for places near me to visit

If you’re wondering, “Where are some great places to visit near me,” don’t worry—no matter where you are, an excellent vacation destination is just a short drive, flight, or train ride away. From beaches and big cities on the East Coast, to the West Coast’s mountains and forests—not to mention a wide variety of national parks, one-of-a-kind sights, and charming towns all throughout the country—your next great getaway is closer than you think.

Great places to go on vacation in the Northeast

Home to some of the oldest—and biggest—cities in the country, the Northeastern United States also boasts a scenic coastline, state and national parks, and plenty of summertime hiking trails and cold-weather ski resorts. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage near Maine’s Acadia National Park or a historic apartment rental near museums, dining, and entertainment in places like Boston, New York City, or Philadelphia, you’ll be sure to find great vacation home rentals for every type of trip—wherever you end up.

Excellent escapes in the Southeast

The Southeastern states are home to countless miles of sandy beaches, bustling cosmopolitan cities, and small towns that practically drip Southern charm. For an unbeatable beachfront escape, book a summer rental along South Carolina’s  Grand Strand —a 60-mile arc of shoreline—or head to the warm waters of Florida’s Gulf Coast. In cities like Atlanta and Miami, you’ll find world-class aquariums, art museums, and live entertainment, while outdoorsy types can stroll a stretch of the famed Appalachian Trail, which starts at Georgia’s Springer Mountain.

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Acadia National Park

Saint louis, grand stand, popular places to visit in the midwest.

Looking for great places to go on vacation in the Midwest? You’re in luck. Other than mountains, you can find just about everything in this sprawling, diverse region. In bustling Chicago, visit major attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Second City comedy theater, and the landmark Willis Tower. Midwestern cities like St. Louis and Minneapolis offer a wide array of big-city entertainment, while the region’s lakes, rivers, and parks provide ample space for hiking, swimming, and boating in the summer, and snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Great destinations to see in the South

With historic sights, sandy beaches, and one-of-a-kind entertainment, the South is always a great destination. In Nashville, Tennessee, you can catch live country music at the Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry theater, and the honky-tonk bars of The District. Meanwhile, cities like  New Orleans and  Austin  offer their distinctive takes on metropolitan life, where historic buildings are home to quirky shops and lively bars and eateries. For a laid-back time, book a vacation rental in Gulf Coast beach towns like Gulf Shores, Alabama, or Galveston, Texas.

Super places to go near me in the Southwest

Home to scenic desert landscapes, striking red-rock formations, and major landmarks like the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest National Park, the Southwest is a top destination for fans of all sorts of outdoor activities. Nature lovers flock to the area year-round to hike in the national parks or get some fun in the sun on Lake Mead. Charming towns like Santa Fe, Taos, Sedona, and Flagstaff offer unmatched desert views and artists’ galleries, while  Phoenix , a sprawling metropolis, has all the big-city thrills you could want. Las Vegas, Nevada, is another popular destination that’s known for its 24-hour casinos, entertainment, and world-class dining.

Top spots to see on the West Coast

From the beaches of Los Angeles and San Diego to the fog of San Francisco and skiing at Lake Tahoe, California is as diverse as any state in the union. Los Angeles is home to upscale restaurants, bars, and entertainment, as well as art and cultural institutions, while San Diego features a sprawling wild-animal park and a zoo that’s regularly ranked among the best in the world. Anaheim boasts the iconic Disneyland theme park, while Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain are a short drive away. In the north, you can sample local varietals in Napa Valley wineries, ski at Lake Tahoe, or hike the scenic Yosemite Valley.

Visit these places to go in the Northwest

With its lush evergreen forests, happening cities, and breathtaking river and mountain scenery, the Northwest is filled with great places to visit. Seattle, Washington, is a lively city, with hip bars, cafes, and eateries, and it’s also home to the iconic Space Needle observation tower, offering views of the city, 2 mountain ranges, and Elliott Bay. In Portland, Oregon , you’ll never be far from a craft brewery or a vegan eatery, and it’s also a short drive from hiking at the scenic Oneonta Gorge along the Columbia River. To the west lie the Tillamook National Forest and Cannon Beach, home to a seasonal puffin colony.

Planning a shorthaul trip with kids? Get inspired by our family destination guides.

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Best Restaurants Near Me

• Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

2762 Augustine Dr, Santa Clara, CA

• HiroNori Craft Ramen

4300 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA

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2521 Newhall St, Santa Clara, CA

Restaurant Gish

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1066 Kiely Blvd, Santa Clara, CA

2047 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA

Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House

3590 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara, CA

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3540 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara, CA

Eureka! Santa Clara

Closes in 40 minutes

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1052 Kiely Blvd, Santa Clara, CA

Most Reviewed Restaurants Near Me

• Gen Korean BBQ House

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Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

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190 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA

Orchard City Kitchen

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Maggiano's Little Italy

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The Boiling Crab

1631 E Capitol Expy, San Jose, CA

Alexander's Steakhouse

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The Breakfast Club

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Cha Cha Sushi

547 W Capitol Expy, San Jose, CA

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Voting in person on Tuesday? Everything you need to cast ballot in PA primary

The April 23 Pennysylvania primary is this week and now is as good a time as any to make a plan to vote on Tuesday.

Election experts and voting rights advocates often recommend voters plan out their trip to the polls every year to avoid potential problems.

Pennsylvania is a closed primary state, which means only Republicans and Democrats will get to vote for their respective party’s candidates in several federal and statewide offices. The last day to register to vote in the primary was April 6. 

The deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot was April 16, which means any eligible voters who haven’t requested a no-excuse mail-in ballot or civilian absentee ballot will have to vote in person.

Voters with a sudden illness or other emergency can apply for an emergency absentee ballot after 5 p.m. the Tuesday before an election. More information about emergency absentee ballots can be found at votes.pa.gov .

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

When can I vote in person in PA primary?

Polls open in Pennsylvania from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on April 23.

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If you are in line to vote when the polls close, do not leave the line. Everyone in line to vote before the polls close will get a chance to vote.

Check your status and know your polling place in Bucks County

Two of the most important things you should know before you go to vote are whether your registration is active and where you need to go to cast a vote.

You can check your registration status by name or identification information and use your address to find your polling place through pavoterservices.pa.gov .

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Ideally, you should check your voter status well before the voter registration deadline to give election workers time to resolve any potential problems.

If you believe you’re in the right polling place, but poll workers cannot find you in the pollbook, you can request to vote by provisional ballot.

Do I need ID to vote in Pennsylvania primary?

First-time voters, or previous voters using a new polling place for the first time, must present some form of identification to poll workers.

A full list of acceptable IDs, like a Pennsylvania Drivers’ License or PennDOT ID Card, is available online at vote.pa.gov .

If you forgot your ID and are a first-time voter at that polling place, do not leave. You can request to vote by provisional ballot.

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How do I vote in Pennsylvania?

Bucks County uses a hand-marked paper ballot system called ClearVote, made by Clear Ballot Group, Inc., and a video of how to cast a ballot is available through vote.pa.gov.

When voting in person and after checking in at your polling place, a poll worker will direct you to a voting station after providing you with a ballot and a pen. You must fill in your votes, clearly and fully marking your choice (filling in the oval) on the paper ballot.

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Review your selections and make sure you’ve voted in all the contests you wish to vote in and then print off your ballot.

Check that your printed ballot is correct. If there are any errors, notify a poll worker so your ballot can be spoiled, and you can vote again.

Once finished, you will be directed with your paper ballot to a voting machine to process your votes.

Take your correct and printed ballot to a nearby scanner and scan it in. The screen will notify you if your ballot was successfully cast. Notify a poll worker if you have any error messages after scanning your ballot. 

Scanned ballots fall into a secure lock box for tallying after the polls close.

What if I need assistance voting?

Voters with language access issues can contact the state’s election hotline at 1-877-VOTES for assistance.

All of Bucks County’s polling places have at least one ballot marking machine with ADA-compliant accessibility features, including an audio jack to hear ballot options read aloud, a “sip-and-puff” device with USB connector and visual magnifications options.

A full list of accessibility options and other voting machine information for Bucks County can be found through vote.pa.gov .

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If you need help voting due to a disability, you may bring someone with you to help you vote, as long as that person is not your employer, a Judge of Elections or your union representative.

The first time you have someone help you vote, the election officials at your polling place will ask you to complete and sign a form called a Declaration of Need of Assistance . After the first time, your registration record will note that you completed the form. This declaration is also available in Spanish , Traditional Chinese ,  Simplified Chinese and Vietnamese .

Chris Ullery is the Philadelphia Hub Data Reporter for the USA Today Network. Reach him at [email protected] or find him on Twitter at @ulleryatinell.

18 Driveable Vacation Spots and Places To Visit in The US Within 12 Hours For Most Americans

In the past two years, the American Road Trip came roaring back. If you’ve caught the road trip bug and can stay places longer and work remotely, there are a lot of fantastic vacation spots across America to explore.

We’ve gathered places to visit in the U.S. within one day’s drive for more than a majority of people. I’ve confirmed through correspondence with these cities that 50% or more of the U.S. population can drive to these destinations in 12 hours or less.

Driveable Vacation Spots and Places To Visit in the US

West Coasters may be a little bummed to read this list. Still, as most of the American population is gathered on the East Coast and Midwestern cities, destinations in those regions dominate this list of vacation spots and places to visit in the US.

So whether you’re looking for new vacation spots in your area or to go on a longer road trip, I hope this list of places to visit in the U.S. gives you a new idea!

1. Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania

Set in the Pennsylvania countryside, Lehigh Valley , is an affordable and family-friendly destination is within a day’s drive of 73% of the US population.

Only 90-minutes away from the nation’s largest city, New York City, 80 miles north of Philadelphia, and less than a 6-hour drive from most of the Northeast, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, it’s worth taking a look at for your next vacation.

The Lehigh Valley area consists of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and other charming small towns with tons to see and explore.

Opening in mid-May, Dorney Park and its waterpark and Planet Snoopy offer over 100 rides for young ones. In addition, the Crayola Experience in Easton has dozens of hands-on, creative activities, including making and naming your own Crayola crayon to take home.

You can hike, bike, or run on their extensive trail network, including the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor and the bucket-list Appalachian Trail.

Or enjoy mother nature’s gifts at one of their 30 wineries. Lehigh Valley is considered an American Viticultural Area, a federally designated wine-grape-growing region like Napa Valley, just a lot closer to home.

If you love Williamsburg’s historical experience and centuries-old buildings, this region even more!  These landmarks are original 18th-century buildings from Moravian settlers who moved to Pennsylvania from the Eastern Czech Republic. Book lovers will want to step foot into the Moravian Book shop, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world, dating back to 1745.

“The Steelstacks, located in Bethlehem, is one of the best places to spend an evening in the Lehigh Valley and one of the best  things to do in Pennsylvania “, said Melanie from Partners in Fire.

“An old steel mill turned events center, the facility hosts festivals, concerts, outdoor movies, and more all summer. The Steelstacks complex also includes the Artquest Performing Arts Center, food vendors, and a full bar, making it an ideal place to eat, drink, and be merry on those long summer nights.”

With sticker shock gas prices, it’s a bonus that Lehigh Valley is a one-tank trip for those in the Northeast. Further cementing itself as a budget-friendly option, the average daily accommodations rate is $104 a night, which is highly affordable compared to other Northeastern cities.

2. Richmond, Virginia

While you might have thought about ( or already visited Washington, DC,) have you considered going to Richmond, Virginia? RVA, as locals call it, is Virginia’s State Capitol, 100 miles south of Washington DC and filled with just as much historical significance as one of America’s oldest cities. Within a 500-mile radius from half of the U.S. population, there’s a little bit of everything in this centrally located destination.

Adventures might be interested in the Class II and IV rapids in Richmond, one of the only cities to have rapids of this size in an urban setting.  Or for thrills on land, Kings Dominion amusement park has over 60 rides and a brand new roller coaster, Tumbili, debuting in 2022.

Museum-lovers have a lot to choose from in RVA! The free Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has 50,000 works from 6,000 years, is open every day of the year, and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture is reopening on May 14, 2022, after completing a $30 million renovation.

In addition, the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia tells the stories of African American history in Virginia. The Poe Museum, with the most extensive collection of Poe artifacts, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2022 with a year-long schedule of special events.

If you are in town for a short time and want to combine many experiences into one, you can travel around town to see the Mending Walls public mural art project on a self-guided journey or bicycle tour. Or explore the city via The Richmond Beer Trail, sampling ciders, wines, and meaderies from almost 40 local breweries.

3. Fayetteville, West Virginia

Fayetteville has been named “Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America” by Budget Travel Magazine and “Best River Town” and is now a neighbor to the country’s newest national park – the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Despite being an 8-hour drive from 60% of the U.S. population, the West Virginia way of life is crowd-free. No town, not even Fayetteville, has more than 50,000 people. So if you’re looking to scratch that National Park itch but have no interest in exploring nature along with record-level park crowds, consider all that The Mountain State offers up to vacationers.

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is 70,000 acres of public land full of rich history and prime for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. The park also encompasses the New River, one of the oldest rivers on the continent, and the world’s third-longest single-span arch bridge spanning 3,030 feet above the Gorge.

If you prefer the all-inclusive type of resort, one of the top six adventure resorts in the country, Adventures on the Gorge, is also found here.  It offers 60 different activities across its 250 acres, a variety of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and amenities like its swimming pool with a stunning overlook of the New River Gorge.

4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

While you might only know Pittsburgh for one of its sports teams or Three Rivers Stadium, ‘The Purg’ is one of those under-the-radar vacation spots despite being a driveable destination for 57% of Americans.

Its Cultural District, located in the heart of Downtown, is home to nine theatres that showcase a world-renowned symphony orchestra, opera, dance, and award-winning plays. Or explore the Andy Warhol Museum, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, or The Clemente Museum.

This Fall, the Moonshot Museum opens at the headquarters of space robotics company Astrobotic Technology providing visitors with an up-close look at real lunar landers and rovers being built and readied to fly to the Moon.

Despite being a medium-sized city, there’s a lot of nature to take in.  Pittsburgh is home to 165 parks and places to hike, bike, or walk along the city’s trails. Or roll out a blanket and enjoy a leisurely meal at Three Rivers Parks, where the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers meet.

 5. Columbus, Ohio

If you’re looking for an urban destination,  Columbus, Ohio, is now America’s 14th largest city, with more residents than San Francisco, and offers months’ worth of activities. 65% of the U.S. Population ( plus Toronto, Quebec, and Montreal residents) can road trip to Ohio’s largest city in less than 12 hours.

Family-friendly attractions include one of the nation’s best zoos , fun-filled children’s museums, and Franklin Park Conservatory, home to the nation’s top children’s garden. In addition, Columbus has an incredible park system with outstanding hiking and green spaces, including 175 acres of green space in the heart of the city, hundreds of miles of bike/hike and running trails, and one of the world’s only Audubon Centers in the middle of downtown.

Do you have a fashionista in your life but can’t make it to New York City? Due to significant fashion brands headquartered in town, Columbus is a surprising fashion mecca. It’s the third-largest employer of fashion designers, fueling incredible shopping with lower price tags than in expensive cities.

The city’s art scene is unparalleled for a city its size. You’ll find dozens of galleries, major art museums, several massive live performance venues,  groundbreaking offerings such as Shadowbox Live and the Wexner Center for Contemporary Art, and an exciting poetry scene.

As a city where diversity is celebrated and new Americans are warmly welcomed, foodies will love the city’s culinary offerings. Columbus is home to multiple James Beard Award nominees, a recent Top Chef Contender, and the owner of what the New York Times called the best new restaurant in America.

With the second-largest Somali population in the U.S. and one of the country’s most diverse populations overall, in Columbus, visitors can enjoy Tibetan momos, Bangladeshi cuisine, a Pakistani bakery, and one of the best banh mi sandwiches in North America. In addition, dozens of authentic food trucks serve cuisines from Mexico, Central, and South America, and draw long lines.

6. Cincinnati, Ohio

One hundred miles southwest of Columbus is another one of Ohio’s fantastic vacation spots. Cincinnati is called the Gateway to the Midwest due to its central location,  an 11-hour drive for half of all Americans. One of the country’s most affordable places to live, people can have a great vacation in Cincinnati with top attractions and fantastic dining without New York City or San Francisco prices.

The town has a vibrant arts and culture scene as one of only 13 cities in the country with its own ballet, opera, fine art, symphony, theater companies, and museums. In addition, families will love the new Art Climb at the Cincinnati Art Museum, the award-winning Cincinnati Zoo, and the walkable downtown area that’s easy to explore.

Are you looking for the best places to visit for foodies? Well, Cincinnati is another one of the great culinary vacation sports. With James Beard-nominated chefs, the Findlay Market chock full of international cuisine, Oakely Food Hall, and Edward Lee’s new restaurant, you’ll eat amazingly well during your trip to Cincinnati.

Sarah Jessica Parker got her start in The Arts in the city and continues to praise it. The Sex and the City star once said that “Cincinnati, and I really mean this, is a great city.”

7. Butler County, Ohio

If you’re looking for an Ohio destination outside of a city, take a look at Butler County between Cincinnati and Dayton, within one day’s drive for 60% of the U.S. population. Foodies will enjoy the Donut Trail of 13 mom & pop donut shops or Jungle Jim’s International Market, with over 180,000 global items in a 6.5-acre space.

Spend your days exploring Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum with 80 modern sculptures across 300 acres, EnterTrainment Junction, the world’s largest indoor train display, or The Salty Dog Museum’s classic cars and vintage firetrucks.

8. Branson, Missouri

This destination welcomes approximately 9 million visitors annually, partly due to its plethora of attractions and activities and its location in middle America. Known as ‘The Orlando of the Midwest,’ you’ll see it regularly featured on best places to visit in the US lists.

Branson is a one-of-a-kind family vacation destination nestled in the lakeside beauty of the Ozark Mountains and within a 12-hour drive for about 50% of the U.S. population.

With dozens of live performances, Silver Dollar City, one of the best theme parks globally, and a historic downtown district, Branson’s sheer number of family-fun activities in Branson draws people year after year. Their long list of live entertainment includes rock, country, tribute bands to magicians, illusionists, variety, and comedy shows.

Fishing enthusiasts know that Bass Pro Shops was founded in the region and built Branson’s Big Cedar Resort, a beloved and iconic outdoor upscale resort that is a destination in itself. Table Rock Lake, which draws visitors from near and far, thanks to its world-class fishing and water and boating family fun options like canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing.

Branson also has ten golf courses, including five of Missouri’s top 10  and some rated among the best in the United States. Additionally, five golf courses were built in the past several years, catapulting it to the top echelon of vacation spots for golfers in America. Top of The Rock, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a unique course that’s a must-do for players.

9. St. Louis, Missouri

Equally located from Dallas, Denver, and Washington DC, St. Louis is within 12 hours of over half the US population. St. Louis seemingly has it all and is one of the best places in the U.S. to experience Midwest Americana, a vibrant downtown, award-winning new restaurants, microbreweries, and a rich array of cultural venues all in one destination.

Cross another national park off your list in St. Louis. Home to the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis boasts an abundance of free, fun, and family-friendly opportunities to get to know the history of this part of the country. Explore the Gateway Arch National Park and its surrounding grounds, and visit the recently renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch, a free hands-on experience.

Reserve a day in your itinerary for Forest Park, home to many free attractions.  Stop by the St. Louis Zoo, Laumeier Sculpture Park, one of the first and largest sculpture parks, or escape the summer heat in the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, or the Saint Louis Science Center.

Foodies will enjoy City Foundry, an iconic and historically significant foundry building transformed into St. Louis’ first authentic food hall. Or explore Delmar Loop, a buzzing entertainment and dining hub with an eclectic mix of noodle bars, BBQ restaurants, Korean and Mexican eateries, cocktail lounges, and pubs.

10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

No wonder Myrtle Beach has long been a go-to destination for generations of Americans. More than half of the country can drive to its 60 miles of beaches and other world-renowned attractions.

Another one of those family vacation spots that is also a golfing mecca, Myrtle Beach , has more than 90 golf courses and 50 mini-golf courses so that you can play a round no matter your age and skill level.

“One of my favorite family golf vacations was a road trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with my dad. We played some unique courses, and the weather in Myrtle Beach was incredible,” said Jeff Fang, a top player and Founder of  Financial Pupil .

Broadway At the Beach is South Carolina’s most visited attraction, packed with entertainment, shopping, restaurants, and attractions. Don’t pass up its oversized gondola Ferris wheel 200 feet tall and WonderWorks filled with 100 hands-on exhibits perfect for those beach-break days.

Surfside Beach, located on the southern end of the Myrtle Beach area, was named the first “Autism-friendly travel destination” in 2016. By teaming up with locally-based Champion Autism Network (CAN) and dozens of community partners, it’s also a welcoming, inclusive, and sensory-friendly beach experience for all families.

There are also some unexpected things to do, like visiting Brookgreen Gardens. Founded in 1931, it’s a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places featuring an American sculpture collection and a Lowcountry Zoo.

11. The Carolina Core, North Carolina

This region, consisting of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, & High Point, is at the center of 4 state highways. Explore each city’s distinct personalities and a long list of outdoor activities. Families can enjoy Wet-n-Wild Water Park , obstacle course & ziplining at Safari Nation, The North Carolina Zoo, All a Flutter Butterfly Farm, and Piedmont Environmental Center.

It’s not hard to see why it’s ranked one of the best places in the state for outdoor activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding options in the region’s expansive state parks, local public parks, and outdoor recreation facilities.

12. Fayetteville, North Carolina

Located halfway between New York City and Miami, Florida, on Interstate 95, Fayetteville, North Carolina, is within one day’s drive for 75%  of the United States population. Sports fans flock to the area for annual Spartan races and to enjoy the trails, lakes, tennis, and golf courses.

In addition, you can sample the world’s food without a passport on their International Cuisine Trail, with Hungarian, West African, Turkish, Greek, and Italian Cuisine all within just a few blocks downtown.

13. Hendersonville, North Carolina

About half an hour from Asheville, the second-largest city in the North Carolina mountains has a lot to offer with a lower price tag. Brewery lovers will want to make the trip to visit ‘the Taj Mahal of craft breweries,’ Sierra Nevada Brewery, the largest craft cidery in the U.S., Bold Rock Hard Cider, and other tasting rooms on The Cheers Trail.

Explore the mountains and waterfalls in DuPont State Forest, view four states from Jump Off Rock, and end your day on their award-winning Main Street with extra-wide sidewalks, brick planters, park benches, public art, alfresco dining, galleries, shops, boutiques, and the Appalachian Pinball Museum

14. The Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, Tennessee

The Smoky Mountains National Park and its gateway cities are vacation spots so beloved that most visitors return three times a year! Many believe it’s one of the best places to visit in the US. Its central location draws road-trippers; more than 92% of people travel to this destination by driving, foregoing expensive plane tickets.

Home to the most visited National Park in America, The Great Smoky Mountains, these vacation spots welcome 15 million guests a year to their natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and an almost endless list of fun, family-friendly attractions.

There’s also a wide range of accommodations that average $150 a night in peak season. Depending on your budget, you can book one of 14,500 overnight accommodations from rental homes, hotels, timeshare condos , and even RV campgrounds like the brand-new Margaritaville RV Resort and Lodge.

Pigeon Forge is home to the award-winning Dollywood Amusement park, which is visited more than Disneyland, not to mention a lot more affordable.  Kids and adults of all ages will love to splash year-round at Wilderness at the Smokies indoor/outdoor waterpark resort and the new 50-acre Soaky Mountain Waterpark.

15. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is not called the Scenic City for nothing. It is home to breathtaking nature with endless outdoor recreation options. From adventurous climbs at Sunset Park to horseback riding at Enterprise South Nature Park or exploring the city on a bicycle, views of the Southeast Tennessee mountains and the Tennessee river are everywhere.

Chattanooga is also the only American city with 1 gigabyte per second of Wi-Fi available to every address, so extending your vacation into a workcation is a breeze.

16. Johnson City, Tennessee

History buffs will enjoy a family-friendly and budget-friendly road trip to Johnson City. Tour significant American Revolutionary War, Civil War, and music history sites. Kids will love exploring the Gray Fossil Site, dating back 5 million years.

Visitors can hike to panoramic mountain views from Buffalo Mountain Park, walk the historic Tweetsie Trail, rent a bike, and head to Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. Additionally, Johnson City’s historic downtown district includes local restaurants, breweries, retail shops, parks, and public art and, in the summer, features live music and large-scale festivals.

17. Indianapolis, Indiana

Another one of America’s central vacation spots, Indianapolis is a regular on ‘the most affordable U.S. destination lists. All of the town’s monuments and memorials are free, and so is its long list of parks, such as 100 Acres: Art and Nature Park at Newfields or the downtown canal walk within White River State Park. Illustrating its historical significance as the Crossroads of America, Indianapolis is second only to Washington D.C. for a total number of monuments and memorials.

While you may know this destination as the home of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Indy 500, it’s also home to the world’s largest children’s museum and its new oversized Dino Exhibit.

Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodations, including unique stays at Bottleworks Hotel, located inside the world’s former largest Coca-Cola Bottling Factory.  Tiny Urban Escapes, luxury hotel suites made out of shipping containers, is another fun option for those looking to try something besides hotels.

18. Louisville, Kentucky

You might only know this destination as the home of the iconic Kentucky Derby or the birthplace of Bourbon, but it has so much more for vacationers. For example,  it’s also one of the best vacation spots in the U.S. for budget travelers.

Home to a diverse array of museums, restaurants, and experiences, Louisville offers bucket-list-worthy experiences like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville’s urban Bourbon Trail, and the Mega Cavern, the world’s only fully underground zip line tour.

Spend a day exploring the largest municipal urban forest in the country, Jefferson Memorial Forest. This 6,500-acre serene park features 35 miles of hiking trails, nature education programs, horse trails, fishing, and outdoor recreation activities such as camping, canoeing, orienteering, and climbing a 52-foot Alpine Tower.

Leave room in your itinerary to explore and learn about the Ohio River, including the National Landmark Falls of The Ohio.  Located on the Indiana state line, you can see an entire fossil bed on the bluff overlooking the Ohio River.

Or, take a ride on the oldest operating Mississippi-style steamboat, the 100-year-old, The Belle of Louisville. Before dinner, take your chance to walk across the Ohio River via a converted railroad pedestrian bridge.

End your day by enjoying Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich in the Brown Hotel restaurant , where it was first invented in the 1920s. Wash it down with an Old Fashioned or Mint Julep, too!

More Articles From Planner at Heart

• After Staying in 25 Worldmark Resorts a Traveler Picks His Top 10
• 15 Fun Things to Do & Reasons to Visit Yorktown Beach (Outside Williamsburg, VA)

Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

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