1100+ Vacation Ideas

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.

New Hampshire State House and streets in Concord, NH

Things to Do in Concord, New Hampshire

Although it’s the capital of New Hampshire, the city of Concord doesn’t have quite as large of a population as many would believe, yet it still boasts plenty of things to do for both travelers and local residents alike.

Day Trips from Richmond, VA

What makes these day trips truly unique to me is their variety: exploring the historic streets of Williamsburg, hiking the trails in Shenandoah National Park, or watching the best sunsets by the Chesapeake Bay.

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.

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 this photo of palm three at Huntington Beach

Day Trips in Southern California

SoCal is packed with some of the best and most exciting day trip destinations, and I’ve loved exploring so many of them.

I took this photo on a lake on our fall weekend trip to Manchester, VT.

Best Places to Visit in Vermont

Vermont is one of the best and most unique destinations in the U.S. whether you like hiking, swimming, fall foliage or skiing.

Romantic Weekend Destinations on the West Coast

When I’m dreaming of a quick romantic escape, the West Coast is always one of my favorite regions to explore. For me, it’s one of the best places for couples because it offers such a unique mix of coastal towns, wine country retreats, mountain getaways, and vibrant cities

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.

Best Day Trips from Seattle, WA

From coastal islands to mountain escapes, Seattle offers easy access to the best mix of scenery, culture, and adventure, often in unique and sometimes underrated destinations just a short drive or ferry ride away.

I took this photo of sunflowers in Kansas

Best Places to Visit in Kansas

Kansas often surprises you in the best way. It’s not just one big open stretch of road, it’s a patchwork of small towns, college cities, prairie trails, and cowboy history.

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.

I took this photo of a rainbow with palm trees

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.

I took this photo at Hapuna Beach in Hawaii from under a wave

Best Tropical Island Vacations

The best tropical island vacations are some of the most unique and unforgettable escapes you can take. They’re some of my favorite kinds of trips because they combine relaxation, beauty, and adventure.

Things to Do in Provo

Provo is known for its abundance of natural beauty, a prestigious university and fast-growing economy.

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.