Hidden gems

The Bloomington Convention & Visitors Bureau is the official marketing organization for the City of Bloomington and markets Bloomington, Minnesota, area attractions, and the surrounding communities, to visitors around the world. Bloomington is located adjacent to Minneapolis and St. Paul, just minutes from the International Airport, is the home of Mall of America, and is a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and tourism. For visitor information, special offers and to book hotel rooms online visit www.bloomingtonmn.org.

Charleston is a stunning destination known for its celebrated restaurant scene, architectural treasures, historic wonders, and serene coastal landscapes. Experience the local culture through food and music festivals and enjoy Lowcountry cuisine. The city's historic district is full of beautiful courtyards and gardens. There are many tours available to explore the city's culinary hot spots, Antebellum mansions, historic churches, breweries, and more.

Estes Park, a quaint town 90 miles northwest of Denver, Colorado, serves as a gateway to the Rocky Mountain National Park. Explore miles of hiking trails, and enjoy the mountain terrain and mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities like biking, rock climbing, camping, and wildlife viewing. Beyond its natural wonders, Estes Park offers a diverse selection of dining and shopping experiences, creating a vibrant atmosphere for a romantic weekend or the family vacation of a lifetime.

Washington’s mountains rise from the ground like the mighty, mythical gods of lore. Stretching upwards with little regard for the communities of people peppered around them, such grand indifference captures our imaginations and awe. We strive to scale and conquer them, to master their trails and hills, and their magnificence allows us to transcend who we are in some magical way. Grand Mound, Washington places you within reach of the state’s majestic mountains, and thus its main attractions.

Today, people still flock to Ketchum and Sun Valley both to relax and to seek adventure. Sun Valley is home to one of the country's most famous ski resorts, and Ketchum is considered the gateway to the Sun Valley Resort and the Sawtooth Recreation Area. Ketchum is also located close to the natural wonders of Big Wood River and parts of the Boise, Challis and Sawtooth National forests, thus providing visitors with a multitude of opportunities for fishing, hiking and trail riding.

Key West is a tropical paradise at the southernmost tip of the Continental US, just a short two-hour drive from Miami. With its year-round warm weather and crystal clear waters, Key West is a popular seaport destination for many passenger cruise ships. Explore the scenic beaches, indulge in the diverse culinary scene, and stay in luxurious hotels with stunning views. The city is a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture, offering an abundance of exciting venues to explore and create unforgettable memories.

Lake Havasu City is well known as a stomping ground for parties and the Spring Break community comes second to the wondrous, natural grandeur of the area. The world-famous London Bridge is the town’s biggest attraction, along with all of the lake’s waterfront activities. Fishing, boating, swimming, and a wealth of other aquatic excursions are always in season. The numerous hills and mountainsides are a haven for hikers and explorers and Lake Havasu City itself is a haven for anyone with a heart for adventure.

Lake Tahoe, a breathtaking masterpiece straddling the California-Nevada border, is a stunning mix of crystal-clear waters and towering mountains formed by ancient volcanic forces over a million years ago. Divided into North and South, each with its own charm, Tahoe entices locals and visitors year-round with world-class ski resorts, warm-weather adventures, glitzy casinos, exciting nightlife, and an impressive culinary scene.

Founded as one of America's early colonies in 1782, Lincoln has been attracting the adventurous ever since with its mountain views, fresh, flowing streams, and a kingdom of forests and wildlife. There are endless opportunities for exploration, such as hiking, camping, picnicking, skiing, snowboarding, birdwatching, and sightseeing. Visitors to Lincoln can also catch a glimpse of standard New England luxury, with fine dining, upscale shopping districts, and spa retreats.

Where mountain charm meets family fun, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg beckon with exciting attractions and the promise of outdoor adventure. Experience the thrills of Dollywood and The Island amusement park in Pigeon Forge, or discover the unique shops and theaters along the town's vibrant streets. Gatlinburg offers mountain-themed specialty stores and Tennessee's lone ski resort, Ober Mountain. Both towns serve as gateways to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, inviting exploration of North America's most visited natural wonder.

Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, invites visitors to "celebrate the season" — any season! This charming town basks in ample sunshine during the summer and welcomes a blanket of snow in the winter, offering year-round opportunities to enjoy its nature. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking and mountain biking trails, cast a line for fly fishing, or venture off the beaten path during warmer months. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a haven for skiing and snowboarding.

Portlanders respond eagerly to the summons of the city's unofficial motto: "Keep Portland Weird." While the real Portland differs from the exaggerated version famously portrayed in Portlandia, some quirky traits do hold true. Known for its thriving food, beer, and coffee scenes, Portland blends creativity with whimsy. It's the hometown of culinary legend James Beard and offers unique experiences like weddings at doughnut shops, 'brew 'n' view' theaters, and even a vegan strip club.

With more than 425 wineries, miles of rugged Pacific coastline, towering redwood forests, and its close proximity to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Sonoma County is a traveler’s dream vacation spot in California. Discover more than 50 nature parks that offer travelers miles of hiking and cycling trails through the redwoods or oak-studded hills. Rivers entice visitors to kayak, canoe, or simply float along the cool waters. Breathtaking Highway 1 — Pacific Coast Highway — delights visitors with crashing waves, sea lions and amazing sunsets.

Waterville Valley in New Hampshire offers the best of New England's changing seasons, from winter's snowy slopes to vibrant fall foliage. The town's resort is the main attraction, featuring activities for all ages and interests. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding on well-groomed trails or try snowshoeing through the forest. Summer brings opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and watersports, with the Mad River adding to the picturesque scenery.

Historic pride and natural beauty - Williamsburg seems to have the best of both as millions of travelers visit the city every year for its timeless attractions and verdant landscapes. Colonial buildings, museums, hotels and taverns are favorites of locals and vacationers alike, with Revolutionary reenactments and interpretations spanning the hillsides and battlefields. Take to the waters with Old World schooners, sailing with the Virginian breezes that were once navigated by legendary figures like George Washington and John Smith.