1100+ Vacation Ideas

Day Trips in Southern California

SoCal is packed with some of the best and most exciting day trip destinations, and I’ve loved exploring so many of them.

I took this photo at Hapuna Beach in Hawaii from under a wave

Best Tropical Island Vacations

The best tropical island vacations are some of the most unique and unforgettable escapes you can take. They’re some of my favorite kinds of trips because they combine relaxation, beauty, and adventure.

I took this early morning photo while kayaking in Florida

Best Places to Visit in Florida

I keep returning to Florida for some of its best beaches, spectacular fishing, great diving, and diverse wildlife both above and below water.

I took this photo of the beach in Santa Barbara on a sunny day

Best Places to Visit in California

Southern California is one of the best regions for a vacation in the U.S. Over the years, it’s become one of my favorite destinations for sunshine, culture, and adventure.

Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Southern California

If you are planning a vacation with many different things to do, family fun, as well as diverse history and art to discover and appreciate, then Southern California is the best place to visit.

I took these photos of NYC in the spring while living there for 10 years

Best Places to Visit in New York State

I love how New York State offers the best mix of big-city energy, small-town charm, and stunning natural beauty. From world-famous landmarks to underrated gems, every corner of the state has something special to offer.

Incredible view a sunset in Montauk Long Island

Best Day Trips From NYC

For me, day trips from New York City aren’t just about leaving town. They’re about finding unique places that balance adventure, relaxation, and a sense of discovery. Browse my collection of awesome day trips just 45 minutes to two hours from New York City.

I took these photos while snorkeling in Hawaii on our Valentine's Day getaway.

Best Places to Visit on Valentine's Day

I love how these escapes can be both underrated and unforgettable. You don’t always need something extravagant for it to be special. Sometimes the best memories come from quiet moments together in a new place.

Best Places to Visit in New Mexico

What I love most about New Mexico is how each city and region seems to have its own distinct personality, especially if you visit during different seasons.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, USA townscape at dawn in autumn

Best Places to Visit in West Virginia

I love how West Virginia offers the best mix of rugged natural beauty, cozy small towns, and thrilling outdoor activities.

Best Places to Visit in Illinois

For me, Illinois isn’t just about its big cities. It’s about the unique destinations, the favorite traditions, and the underrated gems that make the state worth exploring.

I took these photos on my visit to Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Jackson Hole

Best Places to Visit in Wyoming

Home to Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and six mountain ranges that surround the Big Horn Basin, it is Wyoming’s majestic outdoors that we wanted to see.

Enjoying Maine coastal harbor in the fall

Best Places to Visit in Maine

Famed for its stunning coastline and quaint fishing towns, Maine can keep both city lovers and nature enthusiasts busy throughout the year.

I took this photo on a lake on our fall weekend trip to Manchester, VT.

Best Places to Visit in Vermont

Vermont is one of the best and most unique destinations in the U.S. whether you like hiking, swimming, fall foliage or skiing.

Best Places to Visit in Louisiana

For me, Louisiana isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about the unique spirit of each destination, the traditions you experience, and the favorite memories you make along the way.

Get Your Best Vacation Idea!

We got started in 1999 the way most good trips begin, by following a feeling. What kept us going were all the amazing discoveries, conversations with locals that pointed us to hidden gems, all my unexpected new favorites! And the search continues...

I'll help you figure which vacation is the best for you! In each section, I'm including my recommendations for my favorite hotels, best places to visit, amazing weekend getaways and affordable day trips.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit in the USA. We base ourselves in a new place every 4 weeks weeks which has allowed us to experience each destination as a local. I love to chase unique things to do near me and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! More about us.