Vacation Idea

Best Places to Visit in Delaware

With just under 30 miles of Atlantic coastline, you may not think of Delaware when planning a vacation, but, trust me, it's worth your time, plus Delaware's super easy to get to by car or train from major cities.

I took this photo of the tree at Lincoln Center on our way to see the Nutcracker at the Met

Christmas Vacation Ideas & Places to Visit

Christmas vacation ideas and places to visit are some of the most unique and magical trip inspirations of the year, and honestly, they’re some of my favorite kinds of getaways.

I took these photos of the impossibly blue-green hidden gem of a river in Slovenia

Most Beautiful Places to Visit Around the World

Searching for the most beautiful places to visit around the world? Well, you are in the right place!

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.

I took this photo of cherry blossoms on my weekend getaway in New Jersey

Weekend Getaways From New Jersey

For me, these getaways are some of the best in the Northeast. They are unique escapes, favorite memories, and underrated gems that always feel worth the journey.

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

Best Places to Visit in 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 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.

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Virginia

For me, Virginia’s romantic getaways aren’t just about the destinations. They’re about the unique settings, the intimate experiences, and the favorite memories created along the way.

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Connecticut

Connecticut’s romantic escapes are some of the best in New England. You get to discover unique destinations, make new favorite memories, and explore hidden gems that keep me coming back.

I took this photo of a pink sunset when we got away last minute to the ocean

Last Minute Weekend Getaways & Cheap Vacations

From quick city escapes to budget-friendly beaches, there are plenty of options that prove the best vacations don’t have to cost a fortune.

I took this stunning orange-red sunset photo over the Pacific

Beaches on the West Coast

Beaches on the West Coast are some of the most unique and awe-inspiring coastal escapes in the United States. They’re easily among my favorite places for both adventure and relaxation.

Lakeway City Park

Lakeway City Park was the kind of place that offers a little bit of everything: water, trails, picnic tables, and space to simply be.

Places to Visit in Mississippi

For me, Mississippi is one of the best and most unique states to explore, an underrated favorite that always delivers memorable experiences.

Best Day Trips from Atlanta

For me, these day trips from Atlanta are some of the best in the South because they combine unique scenery, history, and culture in a way that always leaves me with new favorite memories.

Recreation park with small pond and downtown Richardson, Texas

Places to Visit in Richardson, Texas

For me, Richardson is one of the best cities in Texas because it combines unique cultural events, outdoor beauty, and unforgettable food in a way that always leaves me with new favorite memories.

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.