Vacation Idea

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 while spending a relaxing day trip on the lake in the fall

Lakes in North Carolina

Lakes in North Carolina are some of the most unique natural escapes in the South, and honestly, they’re some of my favorite places to slow down, recharge, and take in the beauty of the outdoors.

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.

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.

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.

Things to Do in Provo

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

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.

Dunedin Causeway leading to the Honeymoon Island State Park

Places to Go in the Spring in April

April vacations are honestly some of my favorite trip ideas. This season is one of the best times to travel because everything feels fresh, colorful, and full of energy.

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.

I took this photo of palm trees on our Affordable Beach Vacation

Cheap Beach Vacations in the U.S.

For me, these are the best cheap beach ideas, underrated, totally my favorite, and full of seaside magic.

I took this romantic sunset photo on my beach getaway

Romantic Beach Getaways

With endless stretches of sand, breathtaking sunsets, and cozy seaside stays, beach escapes are some of the best romantic vacations you can take.

My photo of Wildflowers in the Colorado mountains near Silverton

Best Places to Visit in Colorado

Colorado is best known for its first class ski resorts, where you can enjoy every type of snow sport imaginable, but there are equally exciting outdoor activities for all seasons.

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

Best Places to Visit in Texas

Texas is packed with some of the best places to visit in the United States, and it’s become one of my favorite states for unforgettable trips.

Aerial view of Coronado Bridge in San Diego bay in southern California

Day Trips from San Diego

San Diego is one of my favorite cities in California, but what I love most is how easy it is to take some of the best day trips from here. For me, the location is a big part of what makes San Diego so unique.

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.