Vacation Idea

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.

I took these photos of Manhattan, NYC on a beautiful morning while we lived there

Things to Do in Manhattan, NYC

The "City That Never Sleeps" lives up to its reputation for travelers, offering a wide variety of diverse tourist attractions throughout its five boroughs.

I took this photo in an orchard in Northern California

Best Day Trips from Northern California

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.

Bay Area Day Trips

For me, Bay Area day trips aren’t just about leaving the city. They’re about finding unique destinations that combine natural beauty, local culture, and a sense of discovery. These are the places I went when I needed a break from motion but not from meaning.

We were out in a kayak on Maui in December when I snapped this photo of mom and baby whale

Places to Visit in December

I love how December travel can be both underrated and unforgettable. You can dive into holiday markets and snowy mountain towns, or flip the script completely with a warm-weather retreat that feels like the ultimate seasonal surprise.

Weekend Getaways in Colorado

For me, Colorado weekend getaways aren’t just about the mountains—they’re about discovering unique towns, hidden trails, and favorite experiences that feel both refreshing and inspiring.

Places to Visit in the Bay Area

For me, the Bay Area is one of the best and most unique regions in California offering the perfect mix of culture, nature, and coastal beauty.

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.

Enjoying the views of sand and ocean in Miami

Best Weekend Getaways in the USA

For me, unique weekend getaways aren’t just about where you go. They’re about finding experiences that surprise you, destinations that feel authentic, and the best memories you’ll want to revisit again and again.

I took this photo while hiking in the Texas Hill Country

Best Places to Visit in the Southern USA

From vibrant cities to charming coastal towns, the South delivers the best mix of food, music, and scenery, often in unique and sometimes underrated spots that feel unforgettable.

Best Mindfulness Retreats

Mindfulness retreats in the United States are some of the most unique and transformative experiences you can have.

Best Weekend Getaways in Iowa

Iowa is home to beautiful scenery, a diverse choice of outdoor activities and unique attractions such as the Crystal Lake Cave and West Lake Okoboj.

Aerial view of sunset over the salt marsh in eastern North Carolina

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

I love how North Carolina offers the best mix of mountains, beaches, and vibrant cities. It feels underrated compared to some nearby states, but that’s exactly what makes exploring here so rewarding. You can always find something fresh and memorable.

I took this photo of Hayden Planetarium on our family trip to NYC

Under-the-Radar Places to Visit in the U.S. with Kids

I love how these destinations feel underrated compared to the big-name theme parks or crowded attractions. You get the best mix of fun, affordability, and authenticity, which makes traveling with kids so much easier and more enjoyable.

Best Last Minute Family Vacations

Last minute family vacations can still be some of the best trips you’ll ever take, and they’ve become some of my favorite ways to make memories without the stress of overplanning.

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, and I spent 5 years on the road. Our mission? Discovering the best places to visit on a day trip or weekend getaway in the USA that every person can go on and enjoy! 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 experiences 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.