Best Central United States Travel Guides of 2025

The Birds of Minnesota Field Guide by Stan Tekiela is a comprehensive guide to identifying 123 species of birds found in Minnesota. The book is organized by color, making it easy to quickly identify a bird based on its hue. The guide includes professional photos and naturalist notes from the author, providing interesting facts about each species. This new edition features updated information, photographs, and range maps, making it an essential resource for bird enthusiasts in Minnesota. Overall, the guide is an excellent tool for both beginners and experienced birders, and the color-coding system is a unique and practical feature.

The Birds of Missouri Field Guide is an essential reference for bird enthusiasts in Missouri. With 121 species of Missouri birds organized by color, bird identification is made simple and informative. The book features naturalist tidbits and facts, professional photos, and even a compare feature to help decide between look-alikes. The new edition includes updated photographs and range maps, revised information, and more of the author's expert insights. Overall, this field guide is a must-have for birders of all levels and offers a unique way to identify birds in Missouri.

The RV Camping Bible: [5 in 1] is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to explore the US and the world in an RV. With over 2000 campgrounds and attractions to visit in all 50 states, this book covers everything from choosing the right motorhome to finding the best parking spots. It also includes easy and delicious RV recipes and a 7-day camp logbook. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time family tripper, this book is a must-have for anyone looking to make the most out of their next adventure.

Great Plains by Ian Frazier is a hilarious and fascinating travelogue that takes readers on a journey of over 25,000 miles across the vast and myth-inspiring Great Plains. Frazier's unique blend of intrepidity, tongue-in-cheek humor, and wide-eyed wonder brings the heart of the American West to life. From Sitting Bull's cabin to the site of the murders chronicled in Truman Capote's In Cold Blood, Frazier's expedition is a western adventure and a work of scholarship. This National Bestseller is a brilliant and funny book that is soaked in research and makes readers want to explore the prairie.

Fodor's The Black Hills of South Dakota is an ultimate travel guide for those who want to explore the Wild West town of Deadwood, Mount Rushmore, and Badlands National Park. The guidebook offers detailed itineraries, colorful maps, and recommendations from locals on the best sights, restaurants, hotels, outdoor activities, and more. It also provides historical and cultural insights, trip-planning tools, and practical tips to make your journey hassle-free. The book's "Best of" features on food, drinks, and shopping make it unique. Overall, this guidebook is a must-have for anyone visiting South Dakota.

Moon South Dakota's Black Hills: With Mount Rushmore & Badlands National Park is an exceptional travel guide for outdoor enthusiasts. The book offers flexible itineraries, hiking trails, and outdoor activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, and horseback riding. It also provides information on Native American culture, historic sites, and museums. The author, Laural A. Bidwell, provides expert advice on when to visit, what to pack, and how to avoid crowds. The book is full of colorful photos and detailed maps. Overall, Moon South Dakota's Black Hills is a must-have for anyone planning to explore the region.

The Midwest Survival Guide is a hilarious full-color guide to Midwestern culture, written by comedian and journalist Charlie Berens. The book explores everything from the way Midwesterners talk, love, work, drink, and eat, to their unique traditions and cultures. Berens, the creator of the viral comedic series "The Manitowoc Minute", shares his experiences growing up in Wisconsin and touring across the Midwest, offering readers a glimpse into his favorite region on Earth. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to navigate the Midwest and understand its diverse and rich cultures and traditions.

The Birds of Iowa Field Guide by Stan Tekiela is an excellent resource for bird-watchers in Iowa. The guide features 118 species of Iowa birds organized by color for ease of use, with full-page photographs that present the species as you’ll see them in nature. The book also includes a “compare” feature to help you decide between look-alikes. Stan’s Notes provide naturalist tidbits and facts, while range maps and expert insights make this second edition a must-have for birding enthusiasts. With updated photographs and expanded information, this field guide is an essential tool for any birder in Iowa.

The Black Hills National Forest Map Pack Bundle is an essential tool for hikers and campers planning a trip to South Dakota. The bundle includes two topographic maps that provide detailed information such as trails, US Forest Service roads, motorized trails, and points of interest. The maps are printed on waterproof and tear-resistant paper, making them durable for outdoor use. Additionally, the Map Pack Bundle allows customers to save 15% on their purchase. National Geographic Maps has once again provided an excellent resource for exploring the world around us.

Minnesota State Parks: How to Get There, What to Do, Where to Do It by Anne Arthur and Signy Sherman is the ultimate guide for exploring Minnesota's 75 state parks and recreation areas. From hiking and camping to bird-watching and scuba diving, this comprehensive guide offers something for everyone. The book includes full-color photography, maps, and detailed descriptions of each park's trails, campgrounds, and interpretive programs. The authors' expert tips and suggestions for nearby attractions make planning your trip a breeze. Overall, Minnesota State Parks is a must-have for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty and unique adventures that Minnesota has to offer.