NEWLY UPDATED FOR 2025! For Laura Ingalls Wilder fans, there is nothing quite like going to the scene of the story. And for legions of readers, at least half of that story takes place in De Smet, South Dakota. Whether you want to see the land the Ingalls family homesteaded, or walk inside the Surveyors' House they spent the winter of 1879-1880 in, or walk down the street where Laura got her first ride behind Almanzo's beautiful Morgan horses, LAND OF LAURA helps you get there. When should we go? Where can we eat? What is there for the kids to do? The LAND OF LAURA series answers these questions and more for all of Laura Ingalls Wilder's Midwestern homesites. "LAND OF LAURA is a comprehensive review, perfect for travelers who will benefit from a thorough orientation to De Smet. This guide is particularly useful for family travelers and foreign visitors who will find everything they need to know about amenities." -William Anderson, longtime Wilder biographer and author of the recent best-selling THE SELECTED LETTERS OF LAURA INGALLS WILDER
"A fab insider's guide to every Laura fan's critical destination. From tips on keeping the family peace to surviving the rural Midwest in the 21st century, LAND OF LAURA's blend of historical and practical information will keep you coasting in a Nellie-free zone. If I'd had this book, maybe I wouldn't have spent my trip lost in The Big Slough." -Kelly Kathleen Ferguson, author of MY LIFE AS LAURA Every year-roughly May to October-thousands of fans descend upon the spots the Ingalls family called home in Wisconsin, Kansas, Minnesota, Iowa, and South Dakota.And because the Little House books are for children (even though we adults read them), for generation after generation, these sites are the quintessential family destination. "Family vacation" sounds idyllic, but parents know that the reality of traveling with little ones doesn't often match the dream. As a parent, traveler, and Laura Ingalls Wilder enthusiast, Sandra Hume has perfected the art of family travel to the Little House sites. Her LAND OF LAURA series addresses family concerns for this kind of travel. From how far in advance to reserve to what to expect to eat to the must-sees of each site, she guides families through the land of Laura Ingalls Wilder every step of the way. Visit the LAND OF LAURA ... because you want to go where Laura went.