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How Galena, Illinois Became a Small-Town Destination Travel Small Towns opens Season 6 with a conversation about what makes a destination feel authentic, memorable, and worth returning to. Kristy Burns speaks with Terry Mattson, President and CEO of Galena Country Tourism, about how Galena, Illinois balances growth, preservation, and visitor appeal without losing its small-town character. Key topics ·  In this episode, Terry Mattson shares how four decades in destination marketing shaped his approach to tourism, branding, and community development. · We discuss why Galena’s identity is rooted in lead mining, river commerce, and 19th-century architecture, with the town tracing its name back to 1826. · Kristy and Terry talk about what makes Galena hard to replicate: the historic downtown, the hills, the river, and the broader Driftless Area of Jo Daviess County. ·  Terry explains why recent national attention has grown as Galena has become more strategic and more consistent in telling a fuller story beyond Main Street. ·  We discuss the importance of local people, local businesses, and being a trusted planning resource for visitors. · Terry shares that many travelers come for the expected highlights, then leave with the unexpected moments, such as conversations with residents, scenic backroads, and hidden viewpoints. · We talk about the idea that the best tourism destinations are also good places to live, with authenticity and historic preservation serving both residents and visitors. · Terry explains why small towns are increasingly seen as “the new luxury” because they offer space, slower pacing, and a stronger sense of place. · We discuss traveler types, including couples, girls’ weekends, empty nesters, young families, midweek visitors, motorcyclists, car clubs, and international travelers. · Terry highlights the range of experiences available year-round, from downtown shopping and museums to skiing, zip lines, Halloween events, Oktoberfest, and holiday traditions like Luminaria and Living Windows. Topics By Chapter: - Season 6 opens with Galena as a small-town destination- Terry’s four decades in destination marketing- Why Galena’s history begins with lead and river commerce- What makes Galena nearly impossible to recreate- Why Galena is getting more national attention- Telling the fuller story beyond Main Street- The moments of discovery visitors remember most- Why a great destination must also be a great place to live- Off-the-radar spots like Casper Bluff and gravel roads- Why authenticity and slower pacing matter right now- Who visits Galena and how they plan their trips- Why repeat visitation matters more than one-time hype- How visitors can plan with the visitor center, website, and app- Why Galena is seeing growth despite changing search behavior- What a Galena weekend looks like in practice- Year-round activities from skiing to zip lines- Holiday events that make Galena feel like a Hallmark setting- Final travel details and why Terry loves small-town tourism Notable quotes by Terry Mattson: “In order to be a truly successful destination, you also have to be a nice place to live.” “People love Galena Country as much for what it doesn’t have as what it does have.” “I personally find something very satisfying and very real about small town tourism.” Follow Galena Country: Website: https://www.visitgalena.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitGalena Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/visitgalena/

Small towns are finally getting the attention they deserve. If you love finding the places everyone else is just now discovering, subscribe now. Season Six of Travel Small Towns is all about Small-Town Gems that aren't hidden! The towns making noise on Facebook and InstagramThe local stories behind why they stand outThe travel creators and guests with the best small-town findsI’m so excited to share the destinations that are steadily becoming must-visits across the U.S. 🎧What’s one small town you think deserves way more love? Comment on Spotify or social, and Tune in to Season 6 of the Travel Small Towns Podcast. @travelsmalltowns Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelsmalltowns/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelsmalltowns?psln=MXYxaDFvNGt2bWUwZA==

In this episode of Travel Small Towns, host Kristy Burns sits down with Nate Spangle, founder of Get Indiana and host of Get In, to talk about the power of storytelling, small-town pride, and why Indiana has far more to offer than many people realize. Nate shares how his love for conversations and community led him to build a media brand focused on uplifting, positive content across the state of Indiana. From tiny towns with fewer than 1,000 residents to major regional hubs, he explains how Indiana’s communities each have their own identity, history, and hidden gems worth exploring.  The conversation dives into: -The Birth of Get Indiana -Road to a Thousand Towns -Exploring Indiana's Unique Regions -Impact on Small Towns and Businesses -The Power of Storytelling in Business -Promoting Indiana's Hidden Gems -Exploring Small Town Favorites -Innovative Small Towns: Wabash and Beyond -Get Indiana: Uplifting Local Content - Epic Adventures: Exploring Indiana's Rivers Follow Nate Spangle & Get Indiana: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557872195082 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natespangle YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@natespangle

Travel Small Towns spotlights Oconee County, South Carolina, with Cricket Barnett, president and CEO of Visit Oconee. This episode covers why the county stands out as a mountain destination in a state most people associate with beaches, plus the festivals, outdoor adventures, and small towns that make it a strong year-round destination. Cricket shares what makes Oconee County unique, from 50-plus waterfalls to Lake Jocassee, the Chattooga River,and three distinct municipalities with different travel vibes.  If you’re planning a fall trip, love paddle sports, or want a small-town getaway with festivals and scenic beauty, this one’s packed with ideas. Plus, don’t miss fun facts about the iconic movie filmed here, with scenes you won’t forget!   In this episode, you will hear:  - What makes Oconee County unique - 50-plus waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and small-town appeal - Mountains, Blue Ridge views, and hiking in South Carolina - How many waterfalls are marked and explored - Appalachian geology and the county’s rock features - National Geographic recognition and Lake Jocassee - Camping, cabins, tours, kayaks, and paddleboards - The county’s three main municipalities - Jazz on the Alley in Seneca - Christmas lights and holiday events downtown - Fall festival season and heritage events - Heritage fair, tractors, animals, and living history - Walhalla Oktoberfest and German heritage - South Carolina Apple Festival in Westminster - Westminster’s Bigfoot Festival - When the leaves change and why fall is the best season - Chattooga River paddling and rafting levels - The movie you’ve seen but may not have known it was filmed in Oconee County - How the rafting industry started on the Chattooga  Like and follow Oconee County, SC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitOconeeSC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitoconeesc?igsh=MWI2eXZ1eTM3cmYxZw==

There has been so much interest in the concept definitions of small-town travel that we decided to explore it for our listeners here on the podcast! Host Kristy Burns explores the concept of small-town travel and tourism, discussing how small towns are defined, their unique appeal, and how social media is transforming their visibility. This episode offers insights for travelers and small town promoters alike.In This Episode You Will Hear:- Introduction to Small Town Travel and Tourism- How the US Classifies Small Towns by Population- Perceptions and Qualitative Characteristics of Small Towns- The Fewer, Better Experience Trend in Small Towns-Difference Between Small Towns and Cities- Small Towns in the Tourism Space- Social Media's Role in Promoting Small Towns- Travel Small Towns Platform and Community- Recap and Final Thoughts on Small Town Travel Additional Key Points: -Definition of small towns in the US-Qualitative characteristics of small towns-Impact of social media on small town tourism-The concept of slow travel and fewer destinations-Role of agritourism and rural tourism-Travel small towns platform and community building

Discover the hidden gems of Ouray, Colorado—where history, nature, and community meet! Have you ever wondered what makes this small town extraordinary? Listen as Host Kristy Burns & Visit Ouray Colorado's Marketing and Communications Director, Kailey Rhoten, tell you amazing stories about this mountain town!  Host Kristy Burns recently visited Ouray on an unforgettable trip—and found it’s more than just the stunning scenery. From dinosaur tracks to ghost towns and Indigenous history, this town is a time capsule waiting to be explored. What really stole her heart? The community’s passion for preserving their roots—like honoring those who built the town, celebrating its 150th birthday with epic events, and recently hosting Make-A-Wish for a girl’s dream trip. It’s proof that small-town spirit truly runs deep in Ouray. If you're craving authentic experiences, diverse outdoor adventures, and a chance to feel truly welcomed, Ouray should be your next stop.  In This Podcast, you will hear:  -The Personal Story of what Brought Kristy to Ouray, Colorado -Introduction to Ouray and Its Unique Name - The Rich History of Ouray -Exploring Outdoor Recreation and Attractions -Cultural and Historical Significance -Celebrating 150 Years of Ouray -Jeeping Culture and Scenic Drives -Exploring the Backcountry Adventures -Jeeping and Off-Roading in Ouray -Weekend Itinerary for Ouray Visitors -Cultural Experiences and Community Stories -Making Wishes Come True in Ouray Check Out Ouray, Colorado! https://www.visitouray.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitOurayCO Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/VisitOurayCO Events Calendar: https://events.ourayridgwayevents.com/

Small towns know how to celebrate big moments. From time capsule openings to parades, fireworks, and community traditions, this America 250 season has been a beautiful reminder of how much pride, history, and heart live in our hometowns.  Wherever you spent the Fourth of July, I’d love to hear what your town did to celebrate! Listen as Host Kristy Burns Discusses: - Celebrating America 250: A National Reflection - Local Events and Community Pride - Time Capsule Traditions in Small Towns - Unique Fourth of July Celebrations - Community Engagement and Local Festivals - Exploring Small Town Events - Encouraging Travel to Small Towns

Traveling often comes with its own set of challenges,especially when it comes to managing expectations around accommodations. In this episode, I'll share insights from my recent trip to North Central West Virginia, where I encountered a series of hiccups that reminded me of theimportance of preparation and adaptability in travel. Here’s what I learned and how you can better manage expectations to enhance your travel experience. Listen in as Kristy talks about her recent experience with: -Managing Expectations in Travel -The Importance of Planning Accommodations -Sticky Kitchens and Wonderful Showerheads! -Experiencing Unexpected Challenges -Finding Joy Amidst Disappointment -Prioritizing What Matters in Travel

Check out our newest episode with the Founder of Castles & Carpools, Candi Hurst, and Host, Kristy Schlosser Burns (My Town Travels). You are going to love this discussion about Giving Back through Travel, Travel Advisors, Experiencing Unique Accommodations, and so Much More!  Listen in as Candi and Kristy discuss: -The Journey of Castles and Carpools -Traveling with Family: Balancing Responsibilities -The Value of Travel Advising -Giving Back Through Travel -Luxury Travel and Unique Experiences -The Importance of Realistic Travel Expectations -Personalized Travel Planning and Recommendations -Exploring European Small Towns -Experiencing Castles and Unique Accommodations About Candi Hurst: Candi (@castlesandcarpools) is a Certified Travel Advisor who creates custom vacation planning for families who want more than just a trip. She designs journeys that educate, inspire, and bring you closer together. The business began out of curiosity about how travel could be used to give back. As a travel writer, she learned to turn vacations into meaningful, immersive experiences focused on education and community impact. She now helps families embark on luxury vacations throughout North America, Europe, and the Caribbean. Follow Candi: Website: Castlesandcarpools.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/castlesandcarpools Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/castlesandcarpools

Check out our newest episode with Morris, Minnesota’s Tourism Coordinator, Brandy Miller, and Host, Kristy Burns. You are going to LOVE the deep dive into small town tourism in this episode- what it is, how it benefits, and how it’s trending! Listen in as Brandy and Kristy discuss:       -A Welcome to Morris, Minnesota  -Discovering Morris's Natural Wonders    -Sustainability and Agriculture in Morris          -ExploringOutdoor Activities and Accommodations           -The Vibrant Downtown Experience -Unique Events in Morris    -The Importance of Family-Friendly Activities       -The Unique Charm of Small Towns       -The Benefits of Slowing Down        -The Value of Taking Time Off -Reflecting on Life's True Priorities      -Evaluating Life Through Health Scares   -The Role of Relationships in Travel         -Understanding Money and Value -Home Exchange, VRBOs, and Travel Opportunities -Creating Win-Win Scenarios in Small Towns     -The Importance of Community Engagement      - Sales as Service and Accountability         -Connecting with Small Town Life        -The Heart of Small Town Connectivity Follow Morris, Minnesota Tourism: Website: https://www.morrismntourism.com/ @facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitmorrismn @Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morrismntourism/

Listen in to hear Kristy's thoughts on the Small Town opportunities to be gained from National Travel & Tourism Week! Kristy dives into the trends and covers: -Introduction to National Travel & Tourism Week -The Economic Impact of Domestic Travel -Trends in Small Town Travel - The Rise of Second Cities and Small Towns -Traveling Amid Economic Pressures - The Shift Towards Regional Travel -Understanding Small Town Travel - The Importance of Community in Travel -Conclusion and Future Outlook for Small Town Travel and how you can be a part of it this year!

Okay, here it is, the episode that gives you an insider viewof writing small town material. Listen to Daniela’s Journey to create her debut Novel, I Can Save Her, the real-life inspiration behind the story and what it takes to truly become a writer. Listen in as Daniela and Kristy discuss: - How our childhood memories stay with us and inspire uslater in life. - How capturing stories behind the lens for years turnedinto a passion for writing. -How small-town travel truly played a major role in Daniela’sdebut novel. -How a journey Daniela decided to take on a women’s retreatin Colorado, confirmed her path to writing. -How making travel part of your lifestyle can change thedirection of your life. -How to figure out what type of writer you are. -Why for Daniela, becoming a “thriller writer” also needs toinclude humor. -Overview of Daniela’s Debut Novel, I Can Save Her. - The Real-Life Town that inspired Daniela’s novel. -Is Kristy Burns a part of this book?? Guess you’ll have tolisten and read the book to find out about this hilarious little mishap! -A small-town shout out from Daniela. -Upcoming projects from Daniela Murray.   About Daniela Murray: Hi, I'm Daniela (Photographer turned Storyteller) After 17+ years behind the lens, capturing emotion andmoments in a single frame, I felt called to tell stories in a new way. What I once captured through light and lenses, I now tell with words—letting the stories unfold slowly, and without apology.  While I have only written one book so far, I have self-publishedthrough Amazon and learning new things everyday. I discovered I enjoy writing what I love to read. Fast-paced, easy to fall into, with unexpected humor and moments of whiplash and thrill along the way.  Looking ahead in 2026, I have several projects in theworks: A YA novel more suited for a teen audience (as requested by my son), the sequel to my debut novel, and my first Rom-Com. When I am not writing or behind the camera, you'll find mebeing a mom to two kiddos. They keep me on my toes and have been my biggest cheerleaders through this entire journey. In my downtime, I'll be reading romance (the smuttier kind) or a good psychological thriller likely by Freida Mcfadden. Follow Daniela Murray: Website: https://www.danielamurray.com/ Facebook: @https://www.facebook.com/Deedeedavila Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/danielam.author/ TikTok: @https://www.tiktok.com/@daniela.m.author

Check out our newest episode with Heather Wright-Rager, the Owner/Founder of Plot Twist Adventures and one of the best humans I know! Listen in as Heather and Kristy discuss: -Don’t miss Heather’s powerful and inspiring journey, as she tells us her in-depth story about her heroic struggles that eventually inspired her to create Plot Twist Adventures! -How Heather overcame the difficulties many of us have faced during Covid, and how the “Plot Twists” began to happen. -Listen to how Heather found a whole world of seasonal travel work that she never knew existed and found the courage to explore something new. -Going back to Bunk Beds at 42?? Yep! -What’s a Ranch Mama?? -The life-changing results of putting over 45,000 miles on your SUV in a year! -How exploring the windows of the world over the last 3 years is the greatest gift Heather could have ever given to herself, and how @plottwistadventures has evolved into an all-inclusive camping and hiking tour company. -Why Plot Twist Adventures is a small group tour company unlike any other. When Heather says “inclusive,” she means it! -Why Small Group Tours are the BEST way to have a life-changing experience, and how small towns are supporting the outdoor adventure community. -Heather’s Heart for Small Towns and how she incorporates that passion into her work. -Some of Heather’s favorite Small Towns. -Kristy’s personal endorsement for Plot Twist Adventures and her experience. -The creation of the “Wild & Free OG’s”! -How Heather continued to “follow the light” even in dark places, and it has led her to her dream job. -Listen to Heather’s travel lifestyle, even during this podcast! -What you can expect from signing up and going on a Plot Twist Adventure! **More on  HeatherWright-Rager: Heather Wright-Rager is a seasoned entrepreneurand marketing professional with over 25 years of experience delivering exceptional customer service across a wide range of industries. Most notably, she owned and operated a full-service marketing agency for more than adecade, helping brands grow through strategic, results-driven marketing initiatives. Today, Heather remains highly active as a marketingconsultant, assisting brands and business owners across the United States.Her expertise includes strategic planning, social media management, email marketing, media buying, online community management, and integrateddigital campaigns designed to build strong, authentic connections with audiences. In addition to consulting, Heather continues to pursue herpassion for entrepreneurship through her own ventures. She is the founder of Plot Twist Adventures, an all-inclusive hiking and camping company that curates small-group outdoor experiences. Plot Twist Adventures allows guests to enjoy epic adventures without the stress of planning—providing transportation, meals, gear, guided hikes, and thoughtfullydesigned itineraries that make the outdoors accessible and unforgettable. Click Here for Website: https://www.plottwistadventures.com/ Follow on Facebook: ⁠ @plottwistadventures  Instagram: @plottwistadventures  About The ⁠Travel Small Towns Podcast⁠: Welcome to the ⁠Travel Small Towns Podcast⁠(formerly My Town Travels). The Only Podcast Dedicated to Small Town Travel Destinations, Culture, & Lifestyle from a small-town perspective. We are bringing you Destination Stories, Experiences, and Tips with Expert Interviews,including Travel Professionals, Writers, Bloggers, Influencers, and Special Individuals who uplift their ⁠Small-Town Communities⁠!Listen now to great travel stories and insights you’ll love,whether for an escape, a laugh, to relate, or to find the best Small-Town Destinations! Join host Kristy Burns, guest collaborators, and small-town enthusiasts as they discuss what makes small towns special and unique places tovisit. Check out More on Small Town Travel at ⁠Travelsmalltowns.com

Check out our newest episode with Azdean Elmoustaquim, the Owner/Founder of Destinations Morocco, and one of the nicest, kindest people I have ever interviewed! This podcast was so much fun, talking with Azdean about the fabulous Small-Town locations in Morocco and all the ways Destinations Morocco is making a difference in the small-town travel community. Listen in as Azdean and Kristy discuss: -How Destinations Morocco was born from a desire to teach the next generation about their heritage & culture. - How Azdean is driven by his passion to uplift the smaller communities of Morocco through travel. -Azdean’s heart for Co-ops, Markets, and the Small Villages in Morocco. -Why Destinations Morocco is a tour company unlike any other. -Why Small Group Tours are the BEST way to go! -If you have not yet learned about a “Riad” or how to stay in one, listen in! -The step-by-step guide on how to go on an amazing adventure with Destinations Morocco. -What you can expect from the Destinations Morocco Podcast & how to use it as a great research tool. **More on  Azdean Elmoustaquim: Azdean Elmoustaquim is an expert in Morocco travel and has hosted the Destination Morocco podcast since 2022. Destination Morocco is a tour company that primarily crafts personalized, small group tours to Morocco, for families, couples, weddings, and honeymoons, and cultural or thematic travelers. Azdean himself is a native Moroccan, based for the past 25 years in Houston, Texas. He returns to Morocco himself at least once a year to capture on-location material. It's an exciting time to talk about Morocco, and Azdean is here to help you get inspired and prepared! Click Here for Website: https://destinationsmorocco.com/ Follow on Facebook: ⁠@destinamorocco Follow Instagram: @destinations.morocco About The ⁠Travel Small Towns Podcast⁠: Welcome to the ⁠Travel Small Towns Podcast⁠ (formerly My Town Travels). The Only Podcast Dedicated to Small Town Travel Destinations, Culture, & Lifestyle from a small-town perspective. We are bringing you Destination Stories, Experiences, and Tips with Expert Interviews,including Travel Professionals, Writers, Bloggers, Influencers, and Special Individuals who uplift their ⁠Small-Town Communities⁠! Listen now to great travel stories and insights you’ll love, whether for an escape, a laugh, to relate, or to find the best Small-Town Destinations! Join host Kristy Burns, guest collaborators, and small-town enthusiasts as they discuss what makes small towns special and unique places to visit. Check out More on Small Town Travel Destinations or Sign Up your Small Town at: ⁠Travelsmalltowns.com

Listen in to this awesome episode with Caroline Makepeace(Caz), award-winning travel writer and co-founder of yTravelBlog, one of the world’s longest-running family travel sites! It is always a treat to talk with someone as experienced inthe world of travel writing as Caroline! Listen in as Caz and Kristy discuss: -  A “Working AbroadStrategy.” - How a five-year honeymoon turned into a travel-based business. -Tips from someone who has been doing Travel Blogging sincethe industry began. -The positive effects travel has on families that travel fora living. -How you have to be willing to make sacrifices to live atravel lifestyle. -Do you have a specific Travel Niche, or are you a TravelCollective? -Navigating how much the blogging landscape has changed over the past decade. -Sound advice, and stories from someone who has made travel her job for over 3 decades. -Small Town Travel Tips & Favorite Small Towns from CazMakepeace. -A perfect little, small-town story from Caz that shows theidyllic small-town experience. -What small town has hippos grazing on the streets?? -Ever met a real-life explorer? Don’t miss the second halfof the show.   About:  yTravelBlog (@ytravelblog)   Caroline Makepeace is an award-winning travel writer andco-founder of yTravelBlog, one of the world’s longest-running family travel sites. After nearly three decades of exploring the globe, she’s become especially passionate about small towns and lesser-known destinations — the places where community, culture, and connection really shine. ThroughyTravelBlog, Caroline helps travelers move beyond bucket lists and experience places in a slower, more meaningful way. Follow yTravel Blog: Website: https://www.ytravelblog.com/ Facebook: @yTravelBlog Instagram: @ytravelblog Pinterest: @ytravelblog