For me, Southern California is one of the best regions for romance because it combines unique landscapes, cozy stays, and unforgettable adventures that always bring me closer to the person I’m traveling with.

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Famous bridge over Route 66 in Tulsa

Best Places to Visit in Oklahoma

For me, Oklahoma is one of the best and most unique states to visit, an underrated favorite that always delivers fresh and meaningful experiences.

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Admiring the view over Lake Jocassee , SC

Best Places to Visit in South Carolina

South Carolina is filled with some of the best places to visit in the South, and it’s become one of my favorite states for charm, culture, and coastal beauty.

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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.

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NC

Weekend Getaways in North Carolina

Weekend getaways in North Carolina are some of the most unique and refreshing escapes in the South. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, coastal relaxation, or historic downtowns, North Carolina offers some of the best options for a quick trip.

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Awesome view in Montana

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Montana

From majestic mountains to peaceful lakes, Montana has some of the best settings for romance, with unique spots that feel wonderfully private and even a little underrated.

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Lake near DC

Weekend Getaways from DC

For me, weekend getaways from D.C. are some of the best and most unique escapesthat deliver a refreshing change of pace.

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Admiring fall foliage in Wisconsin

Weekend Getaways in Wisconsin

Weekend getaways in Wisconsin are some of the best in the Midwest. I love all the unique destinations, favorite spots, and underrated gems that keep me coming back.

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Beach in Northern California

Top Things to Do in Northern California

From rugged coastlines to world-class cities and wine country, Northern California delivers the best mix of natural beauty and exciting experiences, often in unique and sometimes underrated spots that feel unforgettable.

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Fish Creek, WI

Things to Do in Fish Creek, Wisconsin

Fish Creek, Wisconsin is one of the most unique and charming towns in Door County. It’s easily one of my favorite places to enjoy a classic Great Lakes getaway.

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Building a sandcastle on Galveston beach

Things to Do in Galveston

Galveston, Texas is one of the best coastal destinations on the Gulf, and it’s become one of my favorite places to visit for a quick getaway.

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Exploring the mountains of Pennsylvania

Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the best and most unique states to explore, an underrated favorite that always leaves me with new memories.

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Ocean view

Weekend Getaways from Boston

For me, weekend getaways from Boston aren’t just about leaving the city. They’re about finding unique beaches and towns that offer the best mix of adventure, relaxation, and classic New England beauty.

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Mississippi Weekend Getaways

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Mississippi

Mississippi is home to are some of the most unique and underrated escapes in the South, and honestly, they’ve become some of my favorite ways to enjoy a couple’s retreat filled with charm and character.

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New Haven Light House at Lighthouse Point Park At Sunset.

Best Places to Visit in Connecticut

I love how Connecticut offers the best blend of coastal towns, scenic countryside, and vibrant cultural attractions. It feels quieter than other New England states, but that’s exactly what makes exploring here so refreshing.

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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.

Ema Bio
Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. I'll help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences, anything from great sunsets to the best places to stay. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on abc6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USAToday. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX with my husband and son. Click for more.