Do you have a routine or ritual for getting to know a new area when you land a sit somewhere totally unfamiliar?
I always start with curiosity—as if I’ve been dropped into this exact place for a reason. I head to the local chamber of commerce, visitor center, or even the parks department to collect brochures, maps, and insider tips. I ask about nearby historical sites, scenic drives, local legends, museums, or nature trails. There’s often something unique right under the surface.
I also love exploring regional foods—whether it’s a famous diner, a bakery, a farmer’s market, or a shop that sells local jerky, chiles, wine, or handmade crafts. I search for items the area is known for—things like boots, wind chimes, hats, or spices. And I always check to see if any movies or shows were filmed in the area. It’s fun to walk the same streets where a scene was shot—it adds another layer to the adventure.
I try to look at every place with fresh eyes, like a child discovering the world. Even if the town seems sleepy or rundown, I find joy in asking: Why did people settle here? What’s the story beneath the surface?
Other things I’ve tried:
– Visiting local libraries and checking out community bulletin boards
– Popping into antique shops (great for town gossip and hidden history)
– Talking to baristas or staff at local cafes
– Geocaching or using apps like Atlas Obscura to uncover oddball spots
– Area specific Newsletters like Only In Your State where you see posts like, "You Can Visit the Small Town in New Mexico That Inspired the Disney Movie “Cars” (I always subscribe in a new state and have learned and seen so much!)
– Ghost towns, pueblos, old shacks, aliens, caves, slot canyons, forts, waterfalls
– Looking up old maps or historic photos of the area for comparison
What about you? What’s your go-to way to connect with a new place? Any unexpected gems you’ve discovered just by being curious?
