Wherever Summer Travels Take You, Add a Book Stop

I don't know about you, but when I'm not in "work" mode, my idea of a vacation is relaxing by the pool, going to the beach, kayaking, playing golf, or walking. I've never been someone who enjoys shopping, going to museums, or checking out different battleships and submarines during my "off time." But put a book in my hands, and I can read anywhere: by the pool, on the couch, in the car, and definitely on vacation.

A few years ago, during a trip to Key West, Florida, with my family, I was talked into touring Ernest Hemingway's house, and while it's not my "thing," I admit I enjoyed it. I was intrigued by the history of his story and his home, and I soaked up a lot of information. Before then, I had never read any of his books (even if they were assigned in high school😉), and now I look forward to reading them. I'm glad I was open to doing something different.

As you plan your vacation this year, wherever you go, I invite you to consider visiting an author's house, the city where they love to write, or the city in a book you read where the author set their story.

Libraries, Bookstores, Authors, Cafés, and More

Whether your vacation keeps you close to home or you're traveling miles away, there are several great authors who live in and have made U.S. cities and towns focal points in their writings.

Imagine finding yourself among the adventures of Tom Sawyer along the Mississippi River in Hannibal, Missouri. Hannibal's celebrating its 71st National Tom Sawyer Days, from June 27 through July 5, 2026. There'll be parades, live music, fireworks, and more.

If you're a fan of Little Women, written by Louisa May Alcott, check out Orchard House in Concord, Massachusetts. The home's history goes back over 300 years. My two favorite adaptations of the movie are the 1994 and 2019 versions.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention Hemingway House & Museum in Key West, Florida. Besides being the most popular tourist attraction in Key West, it's known for having several cats (59 since 2024) on the property, known as Hemingway cats. During our visit, I remember seeing them throughout the house on bookcase shelves, lounging under chairs, and even sunbathing outdoors by the luxurious pool.

Libraries

Years ago, libraries were not free to everyone. People paid subscription dues or bought shares because public funding wasn't an option. There were also library societies, and the books were geared to the clubs or professionals' interests. Years ago, public libraries emerged as communities came together to organize and fund spaces for learning. People began to realize the importance of reading, access to information, and education for everyone.

If you're considering visiting a library, peruse this list. I've mentioned some below:

• There are a whopping 26 libraries in DC. Whether you want to meander through The Library of Congress, Folger Shakespeare Library, the MLK Library, or the Museum of the Bible, you'll find historic information about authors and books.

• The Peterborough Public Library in New Hampshire is the oldest public library in the world, built in 1833, and the first free library available to everyone.

• McAllen Public Library in McAllen, Texas. Originally a large Walmart store, the space was considered a potential site for a new library; the old one was running out of room. In 2011, the space covered two football fields. You'll feel right at home in the comfy reading areas, light emanating from skylights, and, of course, a cafe.

  If you'd like a break from reading and enjoy birds, check out the nearby Quinta Mazatlan mansion and grounds. It's one of the only places in the U.S. where you can find bird species like the Buff-bellied hummingbirds, Green Jays, and Altamira Orioles.

Bookstores

No matter what you hear, independent bookstores are still alive. Several hundred independent bookstores opened in 2025. When it's too hot to play outside, it's raining at the beach or in the mountains, find a bookstore, search the shelves, sit in a chair, relax, and read. I've named a few below, but you can find a longer list here. There's something for everyone, no matter where you live or might travel.

• Washington, DC, boasts having some of the best independent bookstores in the USA. Spend a day hopping around to bookstores. Check out the best bookstores in DC here. You'll find used books for sale at Capitol Hill Books and Second Story Books, rare books at The Lantern, and if you're a lover of food, you don't want to miss Bold Fork Books.

• With four floors and over a million books, 3,500 different sections, there's something for everyone at Powell's City of Books in Portland, Oregon. It's the largest bookstore in the world, covering an entire city block.

• Ever heard of the Literati Bookstore in Ann Arbor? Yes, it's a bookstore, but more. It's cozy and quaint. As patrons stroll through the store, they're invited to read the staff's handwritten book recommendations, and there's an actual old typewriter that visitors can use to write notes, poems, and reflections. They've published a series collection called Notes from a Public Typewriter. How cute is that? The store is also known for author events. Check the calendar if you're moseying up that way.

Whatever part of the US you live in or plan to visit, check and see if your favorite author hails from there, loved to write there, or set their story there. Redbook magazine just released its list of every state's most famous authors. The story noted that it wasn't exactly a scientific method: they relied on a mix of personal preferences, notoriety, and critics' opinions when making their choices. From Alabama's choice, Harper Lee, to Wyoming's favorite, Patricia Maclachla, and authors in between, discovering books to read is magic. Here's a guide to check; maybe you'll see your favorite author mentioned.

Whether you're staying close to home or traveling across the US, take a break off the beaten path and stroll through a library, bookstore, or discover and visit an author's home.

Who's your favorite author? Send us an email!