Vacation Ideas in the USA: Places to Visit, 11,000+ Things to Do, and Hotels

Best Places to Go in Virginia

Learn about history, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains or relax on the beach in the beautiful state of Virginia.

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.

Beaches in California are some of the most unique and unforgettable coastal escapes in the world. Stretching from rugged cliffs in the north to palm-lined shores in the south, California offers some of the best variety you can find on a single coastline.

My photo on a day trip on the coast of North Carolina

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.

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.

Best Beaches in North Carolina

From the Outer Banks to the Crystal Coast and down to the southern beaches near Wilmington, the state has some of the best shoreline you’ll find anywhere on the East Coast.

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.

My photo of beautiful flowers at the farmers market in Annapolis

Day Trips from D.C. for Couples

From charming small towns and historic landmarks to scenic hikes, vineyards, and beaches, the region around D.C. is a hub for quick getaways that feel like a vacation without the long travel time.

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 during my birthday travels

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 in an orchard in Northern California

Best Places to Visit in Northern California

Northern California is a land of dramatic contrasts, windswept coasts, towering redwoods, misty valleys, alpine lakes, and volcanic landscapes. From wine country vineyards to rugged wilderness, it offers some of the most enchanting scenery in the U.S. On my many road trips across the region, these were the highlights.

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

Best Places to Visit in Southern (and Central) 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.

I took this photo in the gardens on my Northern California day trip

Best Day Trips in Northern California (Near San Francisco)

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.

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

22 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 from the air while flying from the Big Island to Maui (And the gecko when we landed).

Best Places to Visit in Hawaii

I love how each island offers the best mix of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and underrated local gems. From lush rainforests and volcanic craters to golden beaches and colorful towns, every corner of Hawaii has something unforgettable to offer.

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 our unexpected new favorites! And the search continues...

We'll help you figure which vacation is the best for you! In each section, we're including our recommendations for our favorite places to visit, best things to do when you get there, hotels and restaurants. We live in the United States so that's our focus, especially on amazing weekend getaways and affordable day trips for regular travelers.