Welcome to The Backyard Explorer
Many natives choose to travel abroad to foreign countries rather than peer into what their own backyard has to offer.
Many natives choose to travel abroad to foreign countries rather than peer into what their own backyard has to offer. Here on The Backyard Explorer, I invite people to reconsider their thinking that there isn't much to do locally, be it within one's community, state, or the U.S. as a whole and it is my hope that you too, will enjoy seeing your own backyard as an opportunity for learning and recreation.
What makes The Backyard Explorer different?
To start, this is based off of United States travel only and more specifically the lower 48 states (and Washington DC). No passports required here. Unless of course you're from outside of the U.S and in that case, welcome! In time, I'd like to add Alaska and Hawaii when I get around to traveling to both those states, but for now we'll focus on places I've actually been to.
Additionally, TBE aims at highlighting those hidden gems, hole in the wall spots, and roads less traveled. You will find less touristy attractions here and more unique destinations instead.
What types of traveling does The Backyard Explorer do most and is this website geared more for solo travelers or those with families?
The majority of my travels are via car and foot. Some say I'm cheap (or frugal), but I’ll call it travelling on a budget. I'm more likely to put in long hours in the car vs flying and now that I have a family, road trips are pretty much the norm. One of the big goals here is to promote exploring what's in your region first and then if you're looking for a change of scenery, go ahead and plan that cross country road trip or flight.
There is truly something for everyone here whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids in tow. I have travelled enough throughout this whole spectrum to offer insights no matter what travel style or phase of life you're in.
Everyone I know travels to exotic places like Rome, Bora Bora, Mexico, and the Alps. Why on Earth would I want to burn my vacation time visiting the Midwest, deep south, or some place where people talk funny?
Great question! Yes, the world is full of wonderful places and I've been fortunate enough to visit a couple other countries, but the United States has so much to offer you literally don't need to leave here to feel like you've been somewhere amazing. Yes, even states like Iowa, Indiana and North Dakota are pretty cool. Don't believe me? I'll write about those adventures in time and it might give you a different perspective.
With well over 300 million people here, you are bound to find something of interest in every state and there is plenty of unique culture to go around. Maybe after the hustle and bustle of spending a weekend in Miami you decide to do a 180 and spend your next trip in Ekalaka, MT. Two totally different experiences altogether and yet both are really cool in their own right.
If you aren't into traveling far, but would rather see what's within an hour radius of you, The Backyard Explorer can help you with that as well. Remember, we're exploring our "backyards" here and that's where the fun lies!
What will The Backyard Explorer focus on more specifically?
I'll let you in on a little secret: everything. I had come up with this idea several years ago and have been toying with how I wanted to accomplish this. Rather than wait several more years until it's perfected, what better time than now! Really though, where am I going with this? Well, let me try to wet your appetite:
Local based travel ideas to places I've been, running the gamut of activities. Let's take parks for example. Are you looking for easy hikes? Or maybe a lengthy backpacking trip or trail running route? How about fine dining nearby (ok so even a delicious greasy cheeseburger after a long day on the trails could count as fine dining). If trails aren't your thing, maybe I can assist you on locating other fun activities such as fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, stargazing, etc. I will do my best to provide authentic information to help you plan your experience.
While parks are definitely a major aspect of my traveling, there is so much more. Festivals, restaurants, lodging, museums, and a plethora of other activities to keep you adventuring in and out of your comfort zone!
Does The Backyard Explorer offer tips, consultations, and trip planning?
Yes, of course! Feel free to contact me and ask for ideas on where to go in your backyard or elsewhere in the United States. In time, I'd like to expand on this further, but for now, don't hesitate to ask for suggestions.
What else will The Backyard Explorer provide here?
To add onto the experience of The Backyard Explorer, I will be writing gear reviews. These reviews will only be for my most beloved equipment so you can spend less time wading through reviews and get to what is most important, what I actually use and what you may actually need.
Are you ready to stay local?
Supporting your backyard is a fantastic way to boost the local communities of the U.S. There are many amazing opportunities right here within this beautiful country of ours and equally amazing people willing to share their backyard with you. Get out there and start your adventure today!