VacationIdea Logo

No matter where your interests lie, there's a day trip from Seattle that's perfect for you.

Read More
Enjoying Maine coastal harbor in the fall

Maine Vacations & Places to Visit

Famed for its stunning coastline and quaint fishing towns, Maine can keep both city lovers and nature enthusiasts busy throughout the year.

Read More
I took this fall foliage photo on an early morning drive

Places to Visit in October & Things to Do

Top October vacation ideas include fall foliage in Vermont, romantic inns in Upstate New York, Colorado, California and other great destinations.

Read More
Dunedin Causeway leading to the Honeymoon Island State Park

Places to Go in the Spring in April & Things to Do

This year's top April vacation ideas include relaxing spa resorts, beach getaways and unique city trips.

Read More
I photographed this blue lake surrounded by fall colors in Vermont

Fall Vacation Ideas

Browse fall weekend getaway ideas from cities all around the United States.

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

Most Beautiful Places to Visit Around the World

This list was designed to inspire visits to all corners of the world, where nature’s majesty is richly woven with human endeavor.

Read More
Sandy beach

Birthday Vacation Ideas

Top birthday vacation ideas include beach resorts, romantic inns, stylish city hotels and active trips.

Read More
Badlands National Park in South Dakota, USA

Best Places to Visit in South Dakota

Whether you are looking for a back-to-nature experience in fascinating surroundings, some great museums and cultural attractions, or a chance to explore America’s Wild West legacy, you will find it all in South Dakota.

Read More
Wyoming welcome sign

Places to Visit in Wyoming & Things to Do

Home to Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, and six mountain ranges that surround the Big Horn Basin, it is Wyoming’s majestic outdoors that travelers come to see year-round.

Read More
I took this photo on a crisp morning while walking along the lake

Places to Visit in November & Things to Do

November can be a great time to travel. The excitement of summer vacation seems long past, and the busyness of the Christmas and New Year season isn’t quite upon us.

Read More
Chimney Rock, Nebraska

Best Places to Visit in Nebraska

From pristine nature to exciting city attractions, Nebraska is a beautiful vacation destination.

Read More
I took these sunset photos over the lake in Glenorchy and Queenstown, New Zealand

Places to Go for an Anniversary Trip & Things to Do

Top anniversary getaways include luxury hideaways, relaxing beaches and unique adventures.

Read More
I took this photo of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia. The water was so clear and refreshing.

Places to Visit May & Things to Do

Whether you love spring gardens, sandy beaches or city hotels, May is a great time for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Read More
I had a picnic at sunset and snapped this photo on my solo trip

Solo Vacation Destinations in the United States

More and more American tourists are choosing to travel solo today, eschewing schedule coordination and group consensus in favor of much-needed "me time."

Read More
Sandy beach in November

Places to Go on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving means taking some time to appreciate all the blessings you have in your life, so why not give yourself even more to appreciate by planning a weekend getaway?

Read More

Great Places to Visit

Traveling the world reminded me how many ways there are to live, and how each place opens something new in you. I remember standing in cities I’d only read about, walking through markets I couldn’t have imagined, hearing languages I didn’t understand but somehow felt. And I remember thinking, “This is what it means to be changed by where you’ve been.”


What stayed with me weren’t just the views or landmarks, but the feelings: awe, wonder, humility, connection. A shared laugh across a language barrier. A still moment watching the sun rise over a temple or a mountain or a quiet street. Each trip left something with me, and gently took something too, like doubt, or rush, or assumption. I came home more open every time.


Need Help Planning?


Whether you're dreaming of ancient cities, remote islands, vibrant cultures, or quiet places to think and feel, these guides are built from real moments around the globe. If you’re ready to go further, not just on a map, but in yourself, this is where your journey begins.

Ema Bio

Welcome to Vacation Idea

Hi there! At Vacation Idea, we've been uncovering and reporting on the best local hidden gems for 27 years. Join us and plan your next authentic and truly unique getaway.