1100+ Vacation Ideas

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

North Carolina is one of my favorite states to explore, and I think it’s one of the best places in the South for unforgettable day trips. I can experience mountains, beaches, historic towns, and vibrant cities—all in the same state. Some of my favorite adventures have come from spontaneous North Carolina day trips.

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.

Best Places to Visit in Utah

For me, Utah isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about the unique landscapes, the favorite experiences, and the best underrated gems that make the state unforgettable.

Best Things to Do in North Carolina

North Carolina is one of the best states to visit in the South. It’s become one of my favorite destinations for beaches, mountains, and charming towns.

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 colorful boats on my romantic trip to Croatia with my husband in the summer

Unique Honeymoon Vacation Ideas in Europe and the U.K.

From charming coastal villages to fairytale mountain towns, these are some of my favorite escapes for couples who want their honeymoon to feel both special and timeless. You’ll even find a few underrated gems that surprise you in the best way.

I took this photo of a sailboat on the horizon

Best Places to Visit in Rhode Island

Planning a trip to Rhode Island? What fun! Get ready to enjoy picturesque beaches, lively waterfronts with incredible seafood, and historic streets filled with New England character.

I took these photos of beaches on Martha's Vineyard, East Coast

Best Best East Coast Beaches

East Coast beaches are some of the most unique and versatile getaways in the United States. They’ve among my favorite destinations for a summer escape or even a peaceful off-season retreat for decades.

I took this photo of a rainbow with palm trees

Best Small Town Honeymoon Destinations

For me, small town honeymoon destinations are some of the best in the world because they combine unique charm, intimacy, and unforgettable moments that make the beginning of married life feel truly magical.

My photo of spring flowers from our hike

Best Places to Go in the Spring in April

April vacations are honestly some of my favorite trip ideas. This season is one of the best times to travel because everything feels fresh, colorful, and full of energy.

I took this photo while hiking in the Texas Hill Country

Best Places to Visit in the Southern USA

From vibrant cities to charming coastal towns, the South delivers the best mix of food, music, and scenery, often in unique and sometimes underrated spots that feel unforgettable.

I took these sunset photos over the lake in Glenorchy and Queenstown, New Zealand

Places to Go for an Anniversary Trip

I love how anniversary trips can be both underrated and unforgettable. You don’t always need to go far to find the best mix of romance, relaxation, and adventure.

Best Places to Go for Birthday

A birthday trip is one of my favorite ways to make memories that go way beyond a dinner or party. It’s about adventure, relaxation, and doing something that feels truly special just for me (or for someone I love).

I took this photo of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia. The water was so clear and refreshing.

Best Places to Visit in May

I love how May travel feels underrated compared to peak summer vacations. You get the best mix of beauty, comfort, and affordability, which makes every trip feel even more enjoyable.

I took these photo on the ground and while flying over to the Big Island of Hawaii

Best Places to Visit in September

What makes September travel so special is its variety. You can take advantage of late-summer beach days, explore unique mountain towns alive with fall colors, or enjoy unique local events and festivals.

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.