How to Experience a City Like a Local

Tourist attractions are some of the easiest places to find when traveling from state to state via RV, but in some areas, it’s better to experience the town from a local’s perspective rather than a visitor’s. This task can be a little challenging at times, considering many RV travelers don’t have friends within the cities to show them around and introduce them to the area’s best kept secrets. However, we’ve come up with a few tips that will help you on your quest to travel like a local and get the most out of each place you visit during your next cross-country trip!

When traveling to a new city, one of the best ways to find out about great unknown spots is by talking to the locals. They will always guide you in the right direction and open you up to an experience you would never have if you explored the city as a tourist. One way to mingle with the locals and earn bits of knowledge about the town is by keeping away from typical food chains and dining in mom and pop restaurants instead. You may also want to sit at the bar area, if possible, where you’ll be able to freely chat with locals and find out about the city’s offerings.

In most towns throughout the U.S., visitor centers are also a good place to learn about where to go and what to see during your visit. You can find many locals here that will be able to answer your questions about the city’s highlights and biggest assets, such as the best scenic routes, hiking trails, diners and activities. Depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for, they may also recommend checking out different places aside from the everyday tourist attractions, putting you on the fast track to traveling the city like a local.  

Keep these tips in mind when heading to your next destination via RV to get an idea of what it’s like to be a local.