Planning a journey across the vast and varied landscapes of the United States can be an exhilarating, yet sometimes daunting, task. With endless highways, bustling cities, serene national parks, and hidden cultural gems, where do you even begin? While the internet offers a wealth of information, there’s something uniquely valuable about resources curated by local experts who live and breathe the destination.
This is where free state travel guides become your indispensable companion, offering insider insights and practical information that go far beyond generic search results. These guides are gateways to understanding the unique character, history, culture, and flavors of each state, helping you craft a truly immersive travel experience. Finding these official guides is the first step to unlocking authentic American adventures. You can often start your search for general guidance by exploring resources like free tourism guides.
Discover America – Your Guide to Finding Free State Travel Guides
Using free state travel guides allows you to tap into the specific nuances that make each corner of the country distinct. They aren’t just lists of attractions; they delve into local traditions, recommend eateries that serve truly regional cuisine, highlight historical sites with compelling stories, and suggest scenic routes or outdoor activities tailored to the area’s geography. Think of them as personalized roadmaps, designed by passionate locals, steering you towards authentic experiences. Whether you’re plotting a cross-country road trip or focusing on a single state’s treasures, these free resources provide curated information you might miss otherwise, helping you connect with the heart and soul of the place you’re visiting.
Here’s a look at where you can find free state travel guides for many states across the USA, each promising a wealth of inspiration for your next journey:
Delaware
Endless possibilities are waiting. Order the Delaware Discovery Guide to explore the charm of its attractions, from historic sites that tell the story of the nation’s beginnings to scenic coastal areas. Discover local dining spots that reflect the state’s heritage and find ideal places to stay, all curated within this valuable resource.
https://www.visitdelaware.com/discovery-guide
Florida
Plan your trip to the Sunshine State with the digital Florida Travel Guides. Find comprehensive information on activities, attractions, diverse accommodations, vibrant restaurants showcasing Floridian cuisine, and transportation options. These guides are essential for mapping out everything from theme park adventures to serene beach getaways and exploring unique ecosystems.
https://www.visitflorida.com/more/travel-guides/
Georgia
The state’s official Travel Guide is a complete resource for planning a Georgia vacation. Find trip ideas that span the state’s mountains to its coast, explore attractions ranging from historical landmarks to modern cultural hubs, get recommendations for dining experiences that highlight Southern flavors, learn about local events, discover unique activities, find accommodations, and access essential map and travel resources.
https://www.exploregeorgia.org/brochures/free-georgia-travel-guide
Hawaii
Prepare for the Aloha State’s relaxing sun-swept sands, awe-inspiring sunsets, and balmy moonlit breezes. Hawaii’s guide mingles dramatic terrain with heart-pumping surf and spontaneous friendly energy, providing a comprehensive overview of its unique islands, cultural experiences, and natural wonders.
Scenic view of a beach in Hawaii, highlighting the beauty promised in the free state travel guidehttps://em.gohawaii.com/mtr40/custom/prod/plannerorder/planner_step1.php?bureau=HVCB
Idaho
Get to know Idaho with the Official Idaho Travel Guide. It’s filled with inspiration for outdoor adventurers seeking mountains and rivers, those looking for a relaxing weekend escape, travelers interested in scenic drives, and foodies eager to explore a mouthwatering culinary scene that reflects the state’s agricultural bounty.
https://visitidaho.org/explore-idaho/maps-and-publications/
Illinois
Find unexpected ways to enjoy Illinois in this biannual magazine. It explores every corner of the state, offering a mix of travel stories, stunning photography, and timely trip ideas that make the most of each season, from vibrant Chicago life to historical sites and scenic rural landscapes.
https://www.enjoyillinois.com/plan-your-trip/maps-and-visitor-guides/
Indiana
Packed with trip ideas for outdoor adventures, girlfriend getaways, family road trips, and romantic retreats, Indiana’s guide is versatile. It helps you find destinations for diverse interests and may even include discounts for hotels, attractions, and other places you’ll want to visit, making planning both inspiring and economical.
https://www.visitindiana.com/brochures/
Iowa
Travel Iowa is the official tourism website, offering a tourism map, travel guide, and highlights of the best things to do in the Hawkeye State. Explore its rolling hills, charming small towns, agricultural heritage, and unexpected cultural attractions through their resources.
https://www.traveliowa.com/simplev/1/
Kansas
If you’re looking for a great Kansas road trip destination, their guide is the perfect starting point. Whether it’s just a day trip to explore a specific historical site, a business trip with leisure time, or a full vacation exploring the wide-open spaces, this guide helps you navigate the Sunflower State.
Open road stretching across a Kansas prairie, illustrating destinations in the free state travel guidehttps://www.travelks.com/plan-your-trip/free-travel-guide-and-map/
Kentucky
Order the Kentucky Inspiration Guide to start planning your vacation. Available via mail or as an interactive online version, it provides the inspiration needed to explore everything from the state’s rich horse culture and Bourbon Trail to its stunning natural parks and vibrant music scene.
https://www.kentuckytourism.com/trip-planning/visitors-guide
Louisiana
Let the endless beauty of Louisiana feed your soul and inspire you. The official resources highlight the state’s unique blend of cultures, its legendary culinary scene (think Creole and Cajun!), its deep history, vibrant music (Jazz and Blues!), and the stunning natural landscapes of the bayous and coastline.
https://www.louisianatravel.com/
Maine
With around 180 pages, the Maine travel guide book offers extensive suggestions on what to do and see, from exploring the rugged coastline and charming lighthouses to hiking in Acadia National Park and savoring fresh seafood. It encourages improvisation, reminding travelers that taking a spontaneous turn is part of the magic of discovering Maine.
https://www.mainetravelguidebook.com/
Maryland
Maryland offers a variety of themed guides beyond the general visitor guide. Explore scenic byways, delve into African-American heritage travel, discover golf courses, or navigate the Chesapeake Bay. These specific guides cater to diverse interests, helping you focus your exploration of the Free State.
https://www.visitmaryland.org/brochure
Massachusetts
Visiting a new place can be overwhelming, but Massachusetts’ travel guide helps narrow down the possibilities. It features must-sees for each region, from historic Boston and the literary landscapes of Concord to the beaches of Cape Cod and the mountains of the Berkshires. It also includes a highway map and beautiful photos to spark your imagination.
Historic building facade in Massachusetts, hinting at cultural sites found in the free state travel guidehttps://www.visitma.com/guide/
Michigan
The Pure Michigan Travel Guide highlights stunning sights, exciting places, and fun activities across the state, perfect for both visitors and residents. Explore everything from the bustling urban centers and the Great Lakes shoreline to the unique culture and food scene. If you’re specifically interested in food, make sure to check out guides on what to eat in michigan. Michigan offers a diverse culinary landscape, from cherries in the north to pasties in the Upper Peninsula and diverse ethnic foods in cities.
https://www.michigan.org/travel-guide
Minnesota
Explore Minnesota’s free travel brochures assist with planning your vacation choices. You can find guides highlighting the state’s thousands of lakes, vibrant arts scenes, historical sites, and extensive outdoor recreation opportunities. You can even request a Minnesota highway map for easy navigation.
https://www.exploreminnesota.com/order-travel-guides
Mississippi
Mississippi’s back roads invite you to explore cool blues history along the Blues Trail, soulful cuisine that defines Southern comfort food, bright beaches on the Gulf Coast, rich historical sites from the Civil Rights era and beyond, unique shopping experiences, and experience warm Southern welcomes. Their guide helps you uncover these facets.
Mississippi landscape with moss-draped trees, representing the backroads explored via the free state travel guidehttps://visitmississippi.org/tour-guide/
Missouri
Order your Official Missouri Travel Guide to start planning diverse trips, whether it’s a beer crawl through its burgeoning craft beer scene, a fishing trip on its numerous lakes and rivers, or a visit to iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
https://www.visitmo.com/travel-guide/
Montana
Montana offers specific guide options, including a Glacier National Park and Surrounding Area Map or a comprehensive Vacation packet. These resources are key for exploring Big Sky Country’s majestic mountains, vast plains, and abundant wildlife, providing essential planning details for outdoor adventures.
https://www.visitmt.com/guidebookorder
Nebraska
In Nebraska, “only boring people get bored,” and their travel guide showcases the unique ways they invent fun. Discover everything from unconventional activities like tanking on rivers to exploring historical trails, vibrant arts scenes, and natural wonders. The guide highlights all the “totally not-boring things you can do in Nebraska.”
https://visitnebraska.com/request-travel-guide
Nevada
Read about everything there is to explore in this wild, wonderful state when you sign up for the free Nevada Magazine & Visitor Guide. Packed with out-of-this-world photography and stories about Nevada’s incredible people and places beyond the glitz of the Strip, this is the go-to travel guide for those who are born to roam its diverse landscapes.
https://travelnevada.com/travel-guides/
New Hampshire
Check out all the unique regions of New Hampshire, from the White Mountains to the Seacoast, along with 10 must-see attractions in this full-color guide. It provides a curated look at the state’s natural beauty, historical sites, and charming towns, perfect for planning a scenic getaway.
Autumn mountain scenery in New Hampshire, showing seasonal beauty from the free state travel guidehttps://www.visitnh.gov/visitors-guide
New Jersey
This full-color guide to New Jersey includes information on diverse accommodations, attractions ranging from historical sites to amusement parks, beautiful beaches, rich history, outdoor activities in state parks, shopping destinations, and so much more, covering everything the Garden State has to offer.
https://visitnj.org/form/request-or-download-free-travel-guides
New Mexico
Planning an unforgettable experience in New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, is made easy with the Adventure Guide. Explore its unique blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo cultures, its stunning desert landscapes, historical sites, vibrant arts scenes, and distinctive culinary traditions.
https://www.newmexico.org/plan/guide/
New York
The official I LOVE NY Travel Guide provides inspiration for trips across New York State. It covers everything from world-class beaches and exciting outdoor adventures in the Adirondacks or Catskills to delicious restaurants in cities like New York City or Buffalo, and cozy hotel getaways throughout the state.
https://www.iloveny.com/travel-tools/guides/
North Carolina
Request your free North Carolina travel guide to discover its diverse regions, from the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Mountains. They also offer specific guides like a highway map and guides to handicap-accessible attractions, wineries, and Civil War trails, catering to specific interests and needs.
https://www.visitnc.com/travel-guides
North Dakota
North Dakota’s guide reveals a state with “a lot going on – activities, innovations and scenery that will surprise, engage and inspire you.” Follow your curiosity away from the crowds to discover its wide-open spaces, historical sites like Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and unique cultural experiences.
Vast open sky over North Dakota farmland, reflecting the surprising scenery in the free state travel guidehttps://www.ndtourism.com/visitor-information-order-form
Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers a wide selection of free brochures, allowing you to find information for the entire state or focus on a specific area you plan to visit. Use their page to order brochures covering its Native American history, frontier heritage, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes, which will be mailed to you free of charge.
https://www.travelok.com/brochures/index.asp
Ohio
There’s no better way to start planning your next Ohio vacation or trip than with the FREE publications from Ohio. Explore everything from its major cities and amusement parks to its historical sites, Amish Country, and natural beauty along Lake Erie and the Ohio River.
https://ohio.org/home/order-guide
Oregon
With free Oregon travel guides, you’ll get the inside scoop on the state’s people, places, and happenings. Order publications to be delivered or download them online to explore its stunning coastline, lush forests, vibrant cities like Portland, and geological wonders like the Columbia River Gorge. These guides inspire exploration when you’re ready to travel.
https://forms.traveloregon.com/domestic-visitors-guide
Pennsylvania
The Happy Traveler Guide offers not-to-miss attractions, kid-focused fun, exciting events, and many more great vacation ideas across Pennsylvania. Discover historical sites in Philadelphia, the battlefields of Gettysburg, the sweet fun of Hershey, or the natural beauty of the Poconos with this helpful resource.
https://www.visitpa.com/free-happy-traveler-guide
Rhode Island
Rhode Island packs a lot into its small size. Its guide covers everything from beaches and boating to art, history, dining (especially seafood!), hiking, biking, and bouldering. It highlights the state’s mix of big-city culture, a cool, laid-back coastal vibe, and historic old New England charm.
Lighthouse on the Rhode Island coast, symbolizing coastal charm in the free state travel guidehttps://www.visitrhodeisland.com/plan/travel-guide/
South Carolina
Start planning your ultimate South Carolina adventure with a free copy of the Vacation Guide. You can also download one of many amazing South Carolina maps. These resources help you explore everything from the historic charm of Charleston and the beaches of the Grand Strand to the mountains in the upstate and the unique Gullah Geechee culture.
https://discoversouthcarolina.com/vacation-guides
South Dakota
Download or order the South Dakota Vacation Guide and Highway Map. You can also add on specific packets for Fishing, Hunting, Motorcycle trips, or Winter activities, catering to diverse interests in exploring Mount Rushmore, the Badlands, and the Black Hills.
https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/request-free-vacation-guide
Tennessee
Everything you need to know about planning a trip to Tennessee is in one place. Get the latest on all of the music experiences and attractions across the state, from Nashville’s country music to Memphis’s blues and rock ‘n’ roll. Discover the best destinations, new places to eat Southern fare, and more in your free printed guide or e-guide.
https://www.tnvacation.com/guide
Texas
Discover places to see, things to do, and more in the extensive Travel Texas Guide, often close to 150 pages. Prepared by the Texas Department of Transportation, this amazing resource helps you navigate the vast Lone Star State, from its bustling cities and historical sites like the Alamo to its diverse landscapes and regional cuisines.
Cover image of the Texas Travel Guide, a valuable free state travel guide resourcehttps://www.traveltexas.com/plan-ahead/travel-guide/
Utah
Grab your travel guide today and explore all of Utah’s stunning natural wonders, including its five national parks (the “Mighty 5”), mountain areas perfect for skiing and hiking, beautiful lakes, and more. Maximize your visit to the Beehive State with comprehensive planning resources.
https://www.utah.com/maps-brochures/brochures/
Vermont
Vermont’s guide reminds us that “Life is better when we slow down, look around, and simply take notice.” Whether traveling with family or solo, discover opportunities to find something new or unwind and recharge in its charming small towns, scenic Green Mountains, and beautiful fall foliage routes. Inspiration for a slower pace starts here.
https://www.vermontvacation.com/request-for-information
Virginia
The Virginia Travel Guide highlights surprising finds and unexpected experiences through personal recommendations and heartfelt narratives from locals and passionate travelers. Get the insider’s perspective on detour-worthy destinations, be inspired by trailblazing locals, or take an interactive quiz to find your perfect festival in this historically rich and diverse state.
https://www.virginia.org/plan-your-trip/virginia-travel-guide/
Washington State
Start planning an unforgettable adventure in Washington State. The Visitors’ Guide, published by State of Washington Tourism, helps you explore everything from the vibrant culture of Seattle and the evergreen forests of the Olympic Peninsula to the vineyards of Eastern Washington and the stunning peaks of the Cascade Range.
https://www.stateofwatourism.com/guides/
Washington DC
The guide for the nation’s capital is packed with everything you need to plan your trip, including information on free things to do (museums!), distinct neighborhoods, iconic attractions, tours that delve into history, diverse restaurants, and hotels. It’s an essential resource for navigating this dynamic city.
https://washington.org/visitors-guide
Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s adventure-filled outdoors, spirited festivals, and craft culture make moments with family and friends unforgettable. Discover ideas and inspiration for your next adventure in its lakes, forests, charming small towns, and cities known for their food and drink scenes.
Lake scene in Wisconsin, indicating outdoor adventures detailed in the free state travel guidehttps://www.travelwisconsin.com/order-guides
Exploring Michigan often involves a visit to one of its most iconic spots. If you’re planning a trip to the area, look into mackinac island tours to discover the unique charm and history of this car-free island. Using official state guides can help you find detailed information and recommended operators for such specific experiences.
West Virginia
The Mountain State is home to spirited small towns, undiscovered hidden gems, and world-class outdoor adventures. In West Virginia, let country roads lead you far away from everything and a little closer to nature. The guide helps you find everything from hiking and rafting spots to historical sites and local culture.
https://wvtourism.com/
Wyoming
Wyoming is the last bastion of the West, where bold, independent, and curious spirits are encouraged to forge their own way to adventure. Discover museums preserving frontier history, stunning state parks, authentic rodeos, local breweries, and national treasures like Yellowstone and Grand Teton as you make your way across the Cowboy State. Come to Wyoming and experience its majestic nature and abounding culture.
https://travelwyoming.com/
How to Maximize Your Free Guides
Once you’ve requested or downloaded your free state travel guides, take the time to really explore them. Don’t just skim. Look for suggested itineraries, often designed to be optimal driving routes. Pay attention to sections on local events – timing your trip with a regional festival can offer an incredible cultural immersion. Use the dining sections to find local favorites rather than just chain restaurants. Look for historical markers, walking tour suggestions, or details about state parks and natural areas.
These guides are curated by destination experts and are designed to help you see the state through their eyes, offering a deeper connection to the place than you might find through general online searches alone. Consider getting a physical copy if available, as a physical map and guide can be incredibly useful, especially in areas with limited connectivity.
Finding free state travel guides is an excellent first step in planning any trip across the United States. They provide a wealth of curated information, local perspectives, and often highlight unique experiences tied to a state’s history, culture, food, and natural environment. By utilizing these resources, you’re not just planning a vacation; you’re preparing for a rich exploration that connects you more deeply with the places you visit. So, grab your guides and start dreaming up your next American adventure!
FAQ
- Are these guides truly free?
Yes, generally the official state tourism guides linked here are provided free of charge by the state tourism offices. You may need to fill out a form to have them mailed, or they are available as free digital downloads. - What kind of information is typically included?
Free state travel guidesare comprehensive resources. They usually include information on major attractions, historical sites, cultural experiences, state parks and outdoor activities, local events, dining recommendations (often highlighting regional cuisine), lodging options, maps, suggested itineraries, and practical travel tips. - Are digital guides better than physical ones?
Both have their advantages. Digital guides are convenient for planning on the go and saving space. Physical guides are great for road trips, providing maps that don’t rely on battery or signal, and can feel more immersive to browse. Many states offer both options. - How long does it take to receive a mailed guide?
Delivery times vary depending on the state and your location, but it can often take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to receive a physical guide by mail. It’s best to order them well in advance of your planned travel dates.