These Iowa staycations are unique and inexpensive

Memorial Day weekend is here and if you're not one of the estimated 44 million Americans with out-of-town plans, no worries — local excursions abound and are monstrously underrated, Iowa travel writer Sara Broers tells Axios.

Why it matters: Staying close to local attractions can benefit your community by generating interest and income while saving money and reducing stress.

Catch up fast: Broers launched a travel blog about 20 years ago after a health issue caused neurosurgeons to doubt she would walk again.

• She said in a podcast with the DSM Public Library last year that after proving them wrong, she felt emboldened to pursue her passion for travel writing.

State of play: Broers' latest book, " Perfect Day Iowa ," was published in March and focuses on quick getaways like Lake Red Rock , the state's largest lake.

• Plus, she suggests stops for culinary treasures along her route, like VanVeen Chocolates in Pella.

The intrigue: People are sometimes unaware of what's in their area, especially as attractions like state or county parks evolve with improved or unique offerings, Broers said. Here are a few of her examples:

• Lake of Three Fires State Park in Bedford is a hotspot for equestrian trail riding and offers modern cabins for around $75 a night. Fishing jetties provide shoreline access and there is horseshoe pitching at the beach.
• Cottages at Lake Icaria can fit up to 10 people and include fully stocked kitchens, satellite TV and private docks for $300 a night. Water skiing, disc golf and hiking trails are among the park's attractions.
• Along the Glacial Trail Scenic Byway, cabins made from grain bins at Dog Creek Park in Sutherland have six queen beds each for $150 a night.

What we're watching: Broers' upcoming book, "Iowa Unique Eats and Eateries," which is scheduled for publication next year.

Here are a few of her tips for making the most out of local travel, per the library podcast:

Travel with your passions

• Broers' love for bread pudding has resulted in people recommending places she might not have visited, like Bubba restaurant in DSM.

Keep an open mind

• Everyone has regional perceptions, but try to experience what places like Music Man Square in Broers' hometown of Mason City offer.

Take the road less traveled

• Historic Hills Scenic Byway and the Great River Road are good examples of slower-travel routes that offer "amazing, incredible things" like Amish villages, antique shops and historic hotels, she says.