1100+ Vacation Ideas

Best Weekend Getaways from NYC

In this post, I’ve shared my favorite weekend getaways I enjoyed while living in New York City for 10 years. I love these scenic drives, cozy inns, and charming small towns that aren't too far or too hard to get to. Each trip feels unique, giving you plenty of favorite spots to revisit or discover anew.

Best Beaches in Michigan

Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Michigan is be one of the best and most unique ways to spend your vacation (and I don't mean just summer!).

Enjoying a pink sunset on the beach in Oregon

Best Beaches in Oregon

Oregon’s coastline is home to some of the best beaches in the United States, and they’ve quickly become some of my favorite spots for adventure and relaxation.

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 this photo while strolling along Lake Travis with my husband and son

Best Places to Visit in Texas

The BEST places in Texas! Based on my family's life and travel in the Lone Star State, including beach towns, cities and parks.

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 of fall foliage over water, Texas Hill Country where I live

10 Best Places to Visit in October in the USA

Whether you’re looking for cozy small-town charm, city festivals, or peaceful escapes in nature, October offers a little bit of everything, making it one of my favorite times to plan special trips and seasonal fun.

I discovered this lush hidden waterfall while hiking in the Texas Hill Country

Best Weekend Getaways in Texas

Texas is filled with some of the best weekend getaways in the USA, and it’s one of my favorite states for variety and adventure.

Going for a sunset stroll in San Diego, California

How Far is San Diego from LA: Driving, By Plane, Train or Bus Itinerary

How far is San Diego from Los Angeles? The distance between the two cities is about 120 miles. I love how this drive offers the best mix of coastal views, charming stops, and exciting destinations once you arrive.

An old historical railroad station in North Carolina

Raleigh to Charlotte Distance: Driving, By Plane, Train or Bus

How far is Raleigh, NC from Charlotte, NC? The distance from Raleigh to Charlotte is 170 miles.

Beaches in Cape Coral, FL

Some of Florida’s best beaches are found near Cape Coral. It's definitely the place to visit if you’re looking for a spectacular Floridian beach 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 this photo on my coastal day trip

Best Places to Visit in Maryland

From majestic coastlines to historic towns, Maryland offers some of the best and most unique experiences, with a bit of underrated charm tucked around every corner.

Things to Do in Alameda

I love how Alameda blends island vibes with history, charm, and a relaxed coastal feel. It’s the best kind of getaway when you want something different without going too far.

I took these photos of New England beaches during my travels

Best Places to Visit in New England

From adventure, delicious food, or learning about history, New England has something to offer to everyone.

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.