It’s not exaggerating when Minnesota is called the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and all those lakes mean plenty of outdoor activity and small, charming towns.

Sure, Iowa has notorious presidential caucuses, world-class fishing along the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, famed public golf courses and the artsy town of Iowa City. But the state's biggest claim to fame is its cornfields.

Detroit hasn't exactly enjoyed a welcoming reputation over the years. Though still gritty, today, Detroit is a growing hub for artists and entrepreneurs, and visitors can explore its past on an architectural walking tour or at the Henry Ford and Motown museums.

This state’s 2 peninsulas offer myriad activities in any season, from hiking to sailing to skiing.

There may not be a perfect theory for why Indiana residents are called Hoosiers, but one thing is certain: You'll find some of America's warmest locals here. Along with friendly folks, visitors to Indiana will discover a fervent love for college basketball, 24 state parks, a splendid stretch of coastline and a rich Native American history.

Alabama lies steeped in a history of race relations. For a history fix, visit Fort Morgan, the Rosa Parks Museum and Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King Jr. once preached. The state is also home to a string of lovely Gulf Coast beaches.

It’s possible that just being in Connecticut will make you smarter. The New England haven, while small, is rich in history and academia. When your mind needs a break, drive aimlessly through the scenic hills, go antiquing in one of many charming villages, or indulge in another kind of vintage on the Connecticut Wine Trail.