CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KFVS) – As summer temperatures rise, residents of the Heartland may find the prospect of a cooler getaway increasingly attractive.
Jamie Shultz of Elite Travel in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, reports a surge in travel interest. “Everyone’s ready to travel. We’ve seen such a high demand recently, so it’s definitely our busy season right now,” she said.
Popular Destinations
Among the top destinations for Heartland travelers are America’s national parks, including Yellowstone and Grand Teton in Wyoming, and Glacier National Park in Montana.
“Glacier National Park, in particular, has seen huge demand,” Shultz noted. “People are eager to experience nature and observe wildlife.”
For these trips, Shultz advises consulting a travel advisor to handle car registration and park reservations, simplifying the planning process.
Scenic Train Journeys
Trains offer a unique way to explore national parks. Shultz highlighted the popularity of train rides from Whitefish, Montana, to Glacier National Park. “It’s a great way to visit Glacier,” she said.
Rail travel is also an affordable domestic option. For instance, an Amtrak trip from Carbondale to Chicago takes about five hours. “You can catch a baseball game at Wrigley Field, visit Navy Pier, or see the Bean. There’s lots of fun things to do,” Shultz said.
Road Trip Favorites
For those preferring to drive, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular destination within reach. Florida is another favorite, with Destin’s beach condos attracting many visitors. “Florida has been a really big hotspot,” Shultz added.
Tips for Last-Minute Travelers
For last-minute getaways, Shultz recommends starting with a preferred time window. “Pick out some dates, reach out to your travel advisor—there are great destinations suitable for last-minute trips,” she advised.
With experience in the travel industry, including cruise ships and hotels, Shultz’s passion lies in helping people discover new places.