When you make a trip, especially a long one, you want to make it memorable. The best way to do that is to focus on experiences over trinkets. Whether you're looking touring area attractions yourself or taking guided city tours, here are some tips to make your trip to another city memorable.

  1. Read the visitors' guide to find all of the recommended local attractions. Typically, these are at tourism centers like rest stops or your hotel.
  2. Check out the schedule of events at the local convention center or other facilities. For example, Wheeling, West Virginia has an Artisan Center, Capitol Theatre, and the Eckhart House all of which are area attractions that host events. You can find out more here.
  3. Take photographs of signs which will help jog your memory as you progress through your trip. In a year or two, it may be difficult to recall the exact name of a town, store, or building. You'll be able to relive your memories of your trip in vivid detail if your photographs tell a clear story. Don't forget a backup battery and charger for your phone or camera! Also, check before you go to make sure your devices have plenty of space for all of your memories.
  4. Bend the rules -- without breaking them! For example, if a park closes at dusk, you might drag your feet a little to get a good picture of the sunset before you go (and still make it out by dark).

Pleasure trips are few and far between for most of us. Get as much out of your tourism experience as possible by using the four tips above. You might pick up a souvenir or two but remember, experiences will live on much longer in your memory than trinkets. Pick up a visitor's guide, check out area attractions, and take city tours to get the most memorable experience possible.

If you happen to be in the Wheeling, West Virginia area, check out the Wheeling Convention & Visitors Center. They will have all the information you need to make for an excellent, memorable stay.

This content has been submitted by authors outside of this publisher and is not its editorial product. It could contain opinions, facts, and points of view that have not been reviewed or accepted by the publisher.