Vacation Idea

Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

For me, Kentucky is one of the best states to visit because it combines unique traditions, natural beauty, and unforgettable cultural stops that always leave me with new favorite memories.

My photo of mountain views on our weekend getaway

Best Weekend Getaways in Colorado

Colorado weekend getaways have meant discovering unique towns, hidden trails, and favorite experiences that are rejuvenating and inspiring.

I took these sunset photos while driving through Jackson Hole Valley

Best Wyoming Vacations

Wyoming is home to some of the best vacations in the country. From the dramatic peaks in Grand Teton National Park to the world-famous geysers of Yellowstone, this state has some of the best scenery, wildlife, and outdoor adventures you can find anywhere.

Lake Allatoona at Red Top Mountain State Park

Places to Visit in Georgia, USA

Georgia is one of the best states to visit in the South, and it’s become one of my favorite destinations for history, culture, and natural beauty.

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 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.

My photo on a relaxing summer afternoon in Missouri

Hotels & Resorts in Missouri

What makes Missouri so special is its variety. You can book a luxury resort overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks, enjoy a historic boutique hotel in St. Louis or Kansas City, or find an underrated lodge tucked into the Ozark Mountains.

Best Places to Visit in Missouri

For me, Missouri is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest because it combines unique landscapes, vibrant cities, and underrated small towns that always leave me with new favorite memories.

My photo of a sunset over the hills during our scenic road NC trip

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

I love how North Carolina offers the best mix of mountains, beaches, and vibrant cities. It feels underrated compared to some nearby states, but that’s exactly what makes exploring here so rewarding. You can always find something fresh and memorable.

Best Places to Visit in Nebraska

From wide-open prairies to historic towns and dramatic natural landmarks, Nebraska offers some of the best and most unique attractions, many of which feel surprisingly underrated.

I took these photos of Manhattan, NYC on a beautiful morning while we lived there

Things to Do in Manhattan, NYC

The "City That Never Sleeps" lives up to its reputation for travelers, offering a wide variety of diverse tourist attractions throughout its five boroughs.

I took this photo in an orchard in Northern California

Best Day Trips from Northern California

Northern California is one of the best regions in the U.S. for day trips, and it’s become one of my favorite places to explore thanks to its incredible variety.

Bay Area Day Trips

For me, Bay Area day trips aren’t just about leaving the city. They’re about finding unique destinations that combine natural beauty, local culture, and a sense of discovery. These are the places I went when I needed a break from motion but not from meaning.

We were out in a kayak on Maui in December when I snapped this photo of mom and baby whale

Places to Visit in December

I love how December travel can be both underrated and unforgettable. You can dive into holiday markets and snowy mountain towns, or flip the script completely with a warm-weather retreat that feels like the ultimate seasonal surprise.

Places to Visit in the Bay Area

For me, the Bay Area is one of the best and most unique regions in California offering the perfect mix of culture, nature, and coastal beauty.

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, and I spent 5 years on the road. Our mission? Discovering the best places to visit on a day trip or weekend getaway in the USA that every person can go on and enjoy! 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 experiences 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.