When it comes to exploring the vast and varied landscapes of the United States, there’s nothing quite like hitting the road with a sense of adventure and a well-planned itinerary.
Whether you’re dreaming of the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, the historic charm of Boston, the breathtaking views of Breckenridge, or the sun-soaked beaches of Florida, a little bit of guidance goes a long way.
That’s where free U.S. travel guides, maps, and vacation guides come into play, offering a treasure trove of information to help you make the most of your journey.
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The Value of Free Travel Guides
First off, let’s talk about why these free resources are such a game-changer. Planning a trip can be overwhelming, especially when you’re venturing into uncharted territory. Free travel guides and maps provide a comprehensive overview of your destination, from must-see attractions and local cuisine to accommodation options and transportation tips. They’re like having a knowledgeable friend who gives you insider tips to ensure you don’t miss out on the best experiences.
Where to Find Free US Travel Guides
So, where can you get your hands on these invaluable (and free!) resources? Each state (and several cities within those states) across the U.S. offer free travel guides and maps that you can either download as digital copies or request to be mailed directly to you.
Free US Travel Guides By State
To request each travel guide or map, simply click on the link from the alphabetical list of the U.S. states below, then fill out the requested form with your name and mailing address on that page.
- Free Alabama Vacation & Events Guide
- Free Alaska Vacation Planner
- Free Arizona Travel Guide (the Grand Canyon State)
- Free Arkansas Trip Planning Information (choice of travel guide, waterfalls guide, state parks guide, motorcycling guide, outdoor adventure guide, and/or cycling guide)
- Free California Travel Guide
- Free Colorado Travel Guide
- Free Connecticut Visitors Guide (online info only)
- Free Delaware Discovery Guide
- Free Florida Travel Guides (choice of official vacation guide or RV park and campground directory)
- Free Georgia Travel Guide
- Free Hawaii Visitors’ Guide
- Free Idaho Travel Guide
- Free Illinois Visitor Guide (includes Enjoy Illinois Magazine, start park guide and official highway map)
- Free Indiana Tourism Brochures (several to choose from)
- Free Iowa Travel Guide
- Free Kansas Travel Guide and State Map
- Free Kentucky Visitor’s Guide
- Free Louisiana Inspiration Guide
- Free Maine Travel Planner and Adventure Guide
- Free Maryland Travel Magazine
- Free Massachusetts Visitor’s Guide (online info only)
- Free Michigan Travel Guide
- Free Minnesota Travel Planning Kit (includes travel guide and highway map)
- Free Mississippi Travel Guide
- Free Missouri Travel Guide
- Free Montana Guidebooks (choices of Eastern Montana road trips, Indian country guide, and/or vacation packet)
- Free Nebraska Travel Guide
- Free Nevada Magazine & Visitor Guide (includes state map)
- Free New Hampshire Visitor’s Guide
- Free New Jersey Travel Guides (choice of NJ travel guide and/or state map)
- Free New Mexico True Adventure Guide
- Free New York Travel Brochure (choice of I LOVE NY winter travel guide and/or travel highlights guide)
- Free North Carolina Travel Guides (choice of travel guide and/or highway map)
- Free North Dakota Visitor Information (choice of travel guide kit, hunting and fishing kit, and/or highway map)
- Free Ohio Travel Guide
- Free Oklahoma Travel Brochures (several to choose from)
- Free Oregon Travel Guides (choice of visitor guide, scenic byways driving guide, Indian country guide and/or state highway map)
- Free Pennsylvania Traveler Guide
- Free Rhode Island Visitor Guide
- Free South Carolina Vacation Guide
- Free South Dakota Vacation Guide
- Free Tennessee Vacation Guide
- Free Texas Travel Guide
- Free Utah Travel Brochures (several to choose from)
- Free Vermont Vacation Brochures (several to choose from)
- Free Virginia Travel Guide (includes state map)
- Free Washington Visitors’ Guide
- Free West Virginia Travel Guide
- Free Wisconsin Travel Maps & Guide (several to choose from)
- Free Wyoming Travel Guide
More Places To Find Travel Guides
If you’re looking for more specific travel guides that are specific to certain areas or cities, here are some places that can help.
- Tourism Boards and Visitor Centers: Start by checking out the official tourism websites of the state, city or attraction that you plan to visit. They often have dedicated sections for travel guides and maps, where you can easily request or download them.
- Travel Expos and Events: If you attend travel expos or related events, you’re likely to find booths set up by tourism boards handing out free guides and maps.
- Online Travel Platforms: Websites like TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet, and Fodor’s offer a wealth of travel guides and tips, some of which are available for free download.
- Libraries and Bookstores: Don’t overlook your local library or bookstore, where you can find travel books with detailed maps and guides. While these aren’t always free to keep, they’re a great resource for planning your trip.
Digital vs. Physical Copies?
In today’s digital age, you might wonder whether it’s better to opt for digital guides or stick to the traditional printed ones. Well, it comes down to personal preference. Digital guides are great for on-the-go access and are environmentally friendly. Plus, they’re often more up-to-date. However, printed guides and maps don’t require battery power or an internet connection, making them incredibly reliable companions during your travels.
Maximizing the Use of Your Travel Guides
To make the most out of your travel guides and maps, here are a few tips:
- Highlight and Bookmark: If you’re using a printed guide, don’t be afraid to mark pages, highlight information, and jot down notes. For digital guides, use bookmarking and note-taking features on your device.
- Plan Your Route: Use the maps to plan your route efficiently, taking note of attractions, restaurants, and accommodation options along the way.
- Check for Coupons and Discounts: Some guides include coupons and discount codes for attractions, tours, and accommodations, so keep an eye out for those.
- Stay Open to Spontaneity: While it’s great to plan, some of the best travel experiences come from unexpected detours. Use your guides as a foundation, but don’t be afraid to explore beyond them.
Final Thoughts
Free U.S. travel guides, maps, and vacation guides are incredible resources for any traveler looking to discover the beauty and diversity of the United States. They not only make trip planning easier and more enjoyable but also ensure you get the most out of your travel experience. So, before you pack your bags and set off on your next adventure, make sure to arm yourself with the right information — all available at your fingertips, for free. Happy travels!
P.S. If you like to receive free stuff in your mailbox, check out these other freebie lists:
