East Coast

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

A sweeping view of the natural beauty at Mashomack Preserve

Best Weekend Getaways from NYC

In this post, I’ve shared my favorite weekend getaways I enjoyed while living in New York City for 10 years. I love these scenic drives, cozy inns, and charming small towns that aren't too far or too hard to get to. Each trip feels unique, giving you plenty of favorite spots to revisit or discover anew.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed me to experience each destination as a local, and I'm eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspiration, and local tips. I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets to places of mystery. I have 30 years of experience, over 400,000 social media followers, and my work as a travel expert has been mentioned on ABC6 Morning Show, Best of the Web, and USA Today. When I'm not traveling around the USA, I live in Austin, TX. Click for more.