From Great lakes getaways to coastal escapes, explore five states With exciting assignments & unforgettable experiences
For physical therapist assistants (PTAs) who love combining career growth with new experiences, spring and summer are some of the best seasons to take a travel job. Longer days, warmer weather, and endless opportunities to explore make it easier than ever to enjoy life outside of work while building your skills in new clinical settings.
Whether you're craving coastal adventures, vibrant city life, outdoor recreation, or charming small towns, these five states are seeing strong demand for travel PTAs this season. Here's why Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, and Maryland deserve a spot on your travel therapy radar—and what you can look forward to when you're off the clock.
Illinois: big-City Energy and Midwest exploration
Illinois offers travel PTAs the chance to experience world-class attractions, diverse communities, and plenty of outdoor recreation throughout the warmer months. From large healthcare systems to specialized rehabilitation facilities, Illinois provides opportunities to work in a variety of clinical environments. The state's central location also makes it easy to explore neighboring destinations during your assignment.
Things to Do This Spring and Summer
- Explore iconic attractions in Chicago, including Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and the Riverwalk
- Spend sunny afternoons along the shores of Lake Michigan
- Attend outdoor festivals, concerts, and neighborhood events throughout the city
- Discover hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks in southern Illinois
Whether you're a foodie, sports fan, or outdoor enthusiast, Illinois offers something for every travel PTA.
Connecticut: Coastal Charm Meets New England Adventure
Connecticut offers the perfect blend of picturesque shoreline communities, historic towns, and easy access to major Northeast destinations. Spring brings blooming gardens and comfortable temperatures, while summer delivers classic New England beach days. Connecticut's healthcare facilities range from bustling rehabilitation centers near metropolitan areas to community-focused hospitals throughout the state. Assignments here can offer diverse patient populations while placing you within driving distance of both New York City and Boston.
Things to Do This Spring and Summer
- Explore the waterfront shops and maritime history of Mystic
- Spend weekends relaxing at Hammonasset Beach State Park
- Visit museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions in New Haven
- Enjoy scenic drives through Connecticut's charming coastal towns and countryside
For travelers seeking a slower pace without sacrificing access to major cities, Connecticut delivers the best of both worlds.
Maryland: Waterfront Living and Historic Exploration
Maryland combines coastal beauty, rich history, and access to some of the nation's most exciting destinations. Healthcare facilities throughout Maryland provide opportunities to work with diverse patient populations while enjoying a wide variety of lifestyle options. Whether you're drawn to waterfront communities or urban experiences, Maryland has both.
Things to Do This Spring and Summer
- Stroll the historic streets of Annapolis
- Explore attractions around Baltimore Inner Harbor
- Kayak, boat, or enjoy waterfront dining along the Chesapeake Bay
- Spend beach days in Ocean City
Maryland's variety makes it easy for travel PTAs to create a memorable assignment experience no matter their interests.
michigan: Great Lakes Getaways and Outdoor adventure
If your ideal assignment includes waterfront views, outdoor recreation, and charming lakeside communities, Michigan should be high on your list. Michigan's healthcare facilities serve communities ranging from major metropolitan areas to smaller towns across both peninsulas. Travel assignments here often provide access to some of the country's most beautiful freshwater coastlines.
Things to Do This Spring and Summer
- Visit the breathtaking dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Explore the car-free charm of Mackinac Island
- Enjoy wineries, beaches, and outdoor dining around Traverse City
- Kayak, paddleboard, or relax along Michigan's countless lakes and shorelines
For PTAs who want their days off filled with fresh air and scenic beauty, Michigan offers endless opportunities to recharge.
New Jersey: Beaches, Boardwalks, and easy weekend Escapes
New Jersey often surprises travelers with its diversity. From beautiful beaches to vibrant cities and scenic parks, there's much more to the Garden State than many people realize. Travel PTAs can find opportunities throughout the state while enjoying proximity to major East Coast destinations. Whether you're working near the shore or closer to urban centers, adventure is never far away.
Things to Do This Spring and Summer
- Spend weekends along the famous Jersey Shore
- Explore Victorian architecture and beaches in Cape May
- Walk the boardwalk and enjoy entertainment in Atlantic City
- Take day trips to nearby destinations including New York City and Philadelphia
New Jersey offers a unique mix of beach-town relaxation and big-city accessibility that's hard to beat.
One of the biggest advantages of travel therapy is the opportunity to experience new places while advancing your career. Assignments in Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, and Maryland can offer professional growth, diverse clinical experiences, and unforgettable seasonal adventures. As spring turns to summer, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for your next chapter—whether you're exploring coastal towns, hiking scenic trails, enjoying waterfront festivals, or discovering new favorite weekend spots.
Ready to take your PTA career somewhere new? The right travel assignment can help you build your skills, expand your network, and create experiences you'll remember long after your contract ends.
