East Coast

Best Places to Visit in Maryland

From majestic coastlines to historic towns, Maryland offers some of the best and most unique experiences, with a bit of underrated charm tucked around every corner.

New Haven Light House at Lighthouse Point Park At Sunset.

Best Places to Visit in Connecticut

I love how Connecticut offers the best blend of coastal towns, scenic countryside, and vibrant cultural attractions. It feels quieter than other New England states, but that’s exactly what makes exploring here so refreshing.

Best Places to Visit in Rhode Island

For me, Rhode Island isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about the unique atmosphere, the favorite traditions, and the underrated gems that make each visit feel special.

I took this sunset photo in Chesapeake on our weekend getaway in Maryland

Weekend Getaways in Maryland

Whether you're into kayaking, antiquing, or savoring the best local flavors, these trips deliver a balance of fun and relaxation that’s hard to beat.

I took these photos of beaches on Martha's Vineyard, East Coast

Best East Coast Beaches

East Coast beaches are some of the most unique and versatile getaways in the United States. They’ve among my favorite destinations for a summer escape or even a peaceful off-season retreat for decades.

Weekend Getaways in New Hampshire

New Hampshire is home to some of the best weekend getaways in New England, and it’s become one of my favorite states for cozy escapes and outdoor adventure.

Honeymoon Resorts on the East Coast

For me, honeymoon resorts on the East Coast are some of the best in the U.S.. They are the most unique stays, favorite destinations, and underrated gems that make celebrating love even more special.

Weekend Getaways from Boston

For me, weekend getaways from Boston aren’t just about leaving the city. They’re about finding unique beaches and towns that offer the best mix of adventure, relaxation, and classic New England beauty.

I took this photo on the edge of the ocean one one of our weekend trips

Best Things to Do in Connecticut

For me, Connecticut is one of the best and most unique states to explore. What makes Connecticut truly exceptional to me is its variety: beaches, museums and New England towns. Each experience feels special in its own way.

Best Places to Visit in Delaware

What I love most is how Delaware gives me the best of both worlds. You can relax on stunning beaches, explore charming small towns, or dive into the rich local history. Every time I visit, I discover something new that makes me appreciate just how unique this state really is.

Places to Visit in New Jersey

New Jersey gets labeled fast, exit signs, diners, Turnpike blur. But beyond the clichés, I found a patchwork of places that felt personal: stone towns with quiet streets, ocean air that wakes you up, and cities that keep rewriting themselves.

Scenic beach with trees on an island in Maine

Things to Do in Maine

Whether you’re exploring the best views in Acadia National Park, enjoying the unique atmosphere of Portland’s Old Port, or discovering the underrated charm of Bar Harbor and Camden, Maine is full of amazing experiences worth seeking out.

Day Trips from Boston

Blessed with beautiful natural areas, Massachusetts offers an array of unique attractions for all types of travelers.

I took this photo of sand dunes on Martha’s Vineyard after everyone left for the day

East Coast Weekend Getaways

The East Coast of the United States is rich in culture, history, and tradition, making it one of the best vacation destinations for just about any traveler.

Incredible view a sunset in Montauk Long Island

Best Day Trips From NYC

For me, day trips from New York City aren’t just about leaving town. They’re about finding unique places that balance adventure, relaxation, and a sense of discovery. Browse my collection of awesome day trips just 45 minutes to two hours from New York City.

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 while admiring a pink sunset on the beach with my family

Best Things to Do in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is known for its abundance of things to see and do, including beautiful islands, vibrant cities and historical attractions.

I took this photo on our weekend getaway in Delaware

Weekend Getaways in Delaware

Delaware may be one of the smallest states, but it’s packed with some of the best weekend getaways on the East Coast, and it’s become one of my favorite hidden gems for short escapes.

Where to Eat in New Jersey: Restaurants for Every Foodie

Though it may not be as internationally renowned as its neighbor the Big Apple, the Garden State is home to some of America's most unique and acclaimed restaurants, snagging many top chefs from New York City to open outposts and new concepts along its beautiful shoreline stretches.

Enjoying Pier C park in Hoboken, New Jersey by night, with the New York City skyline in the background

Things to Do in Hoboken, NJ

Just one stop across the Hudson from Manhattan, Hoboken delivers one of the best and most unique blends of small-town feel and big-city access, absolutely one of my favorite spots to explore in New Jersey.

Best Day Trips in Maryland

For me, Maryland day trips are some of the best on the East Coast. They are unique destinations, favorite memories, and underrated gems that keep me coming back.

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! 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.