The Midwest Summer Tradition That Turns Ordinary Backyards Into Vacation SpotsYou don't need a plane ticket, a hotel reservation, or a long road trip to enjoy one of the best parts of summer. Across South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa, people are turning their own backyards into the perfect summer escape. From inflatable pools and patio setups to backyard movie nights and grilling experiments, the backyard has become the unofficial vacation destination of the season. Sometimes the best nights are the ones that weren't planned weeks in advance. The Best Summer Memories Are Often Close to HomeWhile vacations and road trips are great, some of the best summer moments happen just steps from your own back door.