The one thing we hear most often is: 'This year, I'm focusing on giving experiences,' and we couldn't agree more! Experience gifts are ideal for anyone who seems to have it all, could use a little joy, or wants to discover more of the world. This holiday season, why not treat them to an unforgettable adventure full of surprises and excitement? Our gift cards make for the ultimate gift this holiday season, but we understand that you might prefer to pick out the perfect trip yourself!
Here are our top picks for the different travellers in your life in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.
For the outdoorsy
Falls, Forests & Fables (Chicago)
Get ready for a day filled with charm and easy outdoor adventures. Start in a small town bursting with colorful murals, then enjoy riverside lookouts and even some surprising wildlife. This trip is perfect for those who love to stay active while exploring!
Cascades & Colors (Columbus/Cincinnati)
Funky colorful towns full of local eateries and shops, a few waterfalls that will leave you in awe and one of the most unusual gardens we have ever seen. You’ll want to get your camera out for this trip!
Waterfall Wanderings (Cleveland)
The ultimate waterfall adventure not too far from home! Wander along historic paths, snap photos of four falls, enjoy a glass of local vino and explore a mysterious cave.
For the animal lover
All Things Charming (Chicago/Milwaukee)
From serene lakeside views and quaint small-town charm to playful animal encounters and a whimsical museum, this captivating road trip promises to create unforgettable memories for everyone in your group!
Sweet Sensations (Detroit/Toledo)
Between making a furry friend at a farm, enjoying local eateries, walking to quirky ruins in the woods and exploring the sweetest small town, this trip will make all five senses come to life all day!
For the small towns and country roads
A Riverside Ramble (Chicago/Milwaukee)
Wander through colorful sculptures, charming boutiques, and local eateries before discovering breathtaking riverside gems that are so photo-worthy, your camera roll is sure to fill up!
Cozy Country Charm (Indianapolis)
The perfect blend of rustic allure, cute small towns, cozy cafes, and farmstead feelings makes this a fantastic road trip for those looking to slow down and appreciate the little moments.
Rivers & Rural Roads (Detroit/Toledo)
Riverside roaming strolls, historic highlights, scenic spots for sipping wine or beer, and some of the prettiest rural roads are just a few of the hidden gems you’ll discover on this trip!
For the romantic
Bridges & Beauty (Cleveland)
Get ready to wind your way through scenic tree-lined roads, cross charming covered bridges, sip at cozy wineries, hike stunning trails, and maybe even get a chill from a ghostly tale or two.
Elegant Estates & Outdoor Art (Indianapolis)
Just a short drive from Indy, you'll find a world full of elegant estates, whimsical gardens, and colorful outdoor art. We'll tell you all of the quirky fun facts and historic moments that make these spots so unique!
Groves, Gardens & Grapevines (Columbus/Cleveland/Toledo)
This incredibly picturesque road trip is full of whimsical gardens, lookout points, wineries, and easy strolls along forest paths. We think it's an area you'll want to come back to time and time again.
For the beer lover
Lakeshore Views & Brews (Chicago)
Stroll along a breathtaking boardwalk, dip your does in the cool water, sip craft drinks in unique destinations, and take lots of funky photos! This road trip will certainly let you unwind from the hustle and bustle of the city.
For the wine lover
Groves, Gardens & Grapevines (Columbus/Cleveland/Toledo)
This incredibly picturesque road trip is full of whimsical gardens, lookout points, wineries, and easy strolls along forest paths. We think it's an area you'll want to come back to time and time again.
Woodland Walks & Wineries (Cleveland/Toledo)
Funky forest finds are on every stop, which are perfect for the outdoor adventurer. Unique wineries, bakeries, and a museum celebrating a man we have a lot to thank for are sprinkled in for the more leisurely road tripper.
For the family
All Things Charming (Chicago/Milwaukee)
From serene lakeside views and quaint small-town charm to playful animal encounters and a whimsical museum, this captivating road trip promises to create unforgettable memories for everyone in your group!
Treats & Trails (Detroit/Toledo)
Is there anything better than a leisurely day sipping coffee, enjoying tasty treats and meandering along easy boardwalk trails? We think not!
Endless Christmas Cheer (Detroit)
This is the perfect trip for those of you who think that extra festive feeling should be a year-round experience. Decorations, cozy wine stops, and covered bridges - oh my!
Storybook Strolls (Cincinnati)
A day full of whimsy, wonder and quirky destinations that will make you feel like you're living in a storybook world. This trip is perfect for the whole road trip crew, from families with kids to girlfriend getaways!
For the eccentric
Eerie Escapes (Chicago)
Step into a day where every stop sends a shiver down your spine. Ghostly whispers in cemeteries, abandoned ruins, and wooded trails full of chilling stories will leave you wondering if any spirits followed you home.
For everyone
Gift cards provide the ultimate flexibility and personalization - you can find them in our merch section, and we've written a blog post covering everything you need to know about them.
Take the quiz for more help finding the perfect road trip!
More gift guides:
- The Ultimate Guess Where Trips Gift Guide
- The Canadian Gift Guide (British Columbia, Alberta & Nova Scotia)
- The Ontario Gift Guide
- The Northeast Gift Guide (From DC/Maryland to New England)
- The Southeast Gift Guide (Florida, Georgia & North Carolina)
- The California Gift Guide
- 7 Great Experience Christmas Gifts
