Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Retirees Should Consider Leaving Florida For This Affordable Midwest Gem With Miles Of Scenic Shoreline

staff@islands.com (Jonathan Houston) — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 00:45:00 +0000

The Sunshine State still gets most of the attention when it comes to retirement destinations, but this affordable Midwest charmer is an excellent alternative.

11 Of The Most Underrated National Parks And Monuments In The Midwest

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Too many people dismiss the Midwest as a travel destination, which may be part of why these stunning sites are free off massive crowds like other attractions.

This Lesser-Known Lake Escape Is A Scenic Midwest Haven For Fishing, Boating, And Camping

staff@islands.com (Jean Chen Smith) — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 21:45:00 +0000

A peaceful lakeside escape offers fishing, boating, scenic trails, and camping for travelers looking to trade crowded destinations for a quieter retreat.

South Dakota's Lesser-Known Lake Escape Is A Scenic State Park For Fishing, Camping, And Beach Fun

staff@islands.com (Eugenia Lazaris) — Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:45:00 +0000

South Dakota has some famous landmarks, but if you want to check out some outdoor adventure in the eastern part of the state, head to this lakeside state park.

14 Best Midwest Camping Destinations To Visit

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 16:30:00 +0000

While the Midwest may not seem as exciting as the coastal regions, there are plenty of attractions here, especially if you're a lover of the outdoors.

The Best Fried Fish Spots Worth Visiting In Every State

staff@islands.com (Rosheda Stephenson) — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:30:00 +0000

Seafood lovers can rejoice that every restaurant on our list ranks highly on Google and offers crispy, golden-brown treats from the sea (and lots of sides).

South Dakota's Unsung State Park Under An Hour From Sioux Falls Is A Wildlife Gem For Lake Fun, Camping, And Hiking

staff@islands.com (Neha Maheshwari) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:45:00 +0000

South Dakota is one of the country's most underrated states, and this spot near Sioux Falls might just be one of its most underrated state parks.

The Midwest's Lesser-Known Lake Haven Is A Scenic State Park Escape For Camping, Hiking, And Fishing

staff@islands.com (Chris Tharp) — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 17:45:00 +0000

Occupying an idyllic spot amongst bluffs, boulders, and forests, this under-the-radar state park is a perfect place to soak up serene natural beauty.

South Dakota's Wildly Underrated Camping Haven Is A State Park Hideaway With River Views And Golf

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:45:00 +0000

This underrated getaway spot in the Mount Rushmore State has scenic views and encompasses a historic river crossing, perfect for a full weekend of outdoor fun.

12 National Parks Destinations That Are Wildly Popular With Boomers

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:30:00 +0000

The U.S. national parks are beloved by people of all ages, but these 12 destinations in particular are ideal for the baby boomer generation.

Unwritten Rules You Should Know Before Visiting The Midwest

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Sat, 30 May 2026 12:30:00 +0000

From Wisconsin to the Dakotas, you'll be surprised at how much of Midwestern culture varies from other regions of the United States. Here's what to now.

South Dakota's Picturesque City On The Minnesota Border Has Iconic Parks And Hidden Campgrounds

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Sun, 17 May 2026 20:00:00 +0000

South Dakota has an unearned reputation of being "a flyover" state. But it's home to gorgeous natural settings around cities like this one.

What The 3 Best US States To Retire In 2026 All Have In Common

staff@islands.com (Kirtana Menon) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Planning retirement in 2026? These three U.S. states stand out for scenic landscapes, low costs, and plenty of ways to stay active year-round.

South Dakota's 'Friendliest Ghost Town In The Black Hills' Is A Once-Thriving Mining Town With Old West Charm

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:15:00 +0000

Situated in the Black Hills of South Dakota was once an up-and-coming mining town that quickly dissolved into a friendly ghost town oozing with Old West charm.

America's Hands-Down 11 Best Lakeside Camping Destinations, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Kate Mothes) — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 16:30:00 +0000

A lakeside camping trip may be just what you need this summer. Here's where dozens of fellow campers have recommended across the United States.

South Dakota's Second-Biggest Artificial Lake Is Famous For Fishing And Bald Eagle Spotting

staff@islands.com (Chris Tharp) — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 18:45:00 +0000

If you want to catch some walleye, enjoy some tranquil kayaking, or spot some bald eagles, head over to South Dakota's second-biggest artificial lake.

South Dakota's Once-Thriving Mining Town Is Now An Abandoned, Ghostly Beauty To Visit

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 03:45:00 +0000

South Dakota's Black Hills are famed for their beauty, and this former mining town within its forests is no exception - despite being abandoned for decades.

South Dakota's Once-Thriving Prairie Town Now Sits Abandoned

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:00:00 +0000

If you're taking a trip out west and want to visit a ghost town, you can head to this South Dakota destination that used to be a thriving railroad town.

Near The 'Crown Jewel Of Custer State Park' Is A Camping Dream With Scenic Views And Cozy Amenities

staff@islands.com (Maja Proescholdt) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0000

While this campground might not be right on the water, it puts you within walking distance of trailheads and some of the prettiest scenery in the area.

The 5 Hardest-Working Cities To Visit In The US, Per A 2026 Study

staff@islands.com (Robert Isenberg) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 09:15:00 +0000

These five cities, the hardest-working cities in America per a 2026 study measuring a series of workforce metrics, are also great places to visit.