Beautiful Places in the USA

Best Places to Visit in South Dakota

Whether you’re gazing up at the grandeur of Mount Rushmore, hiking the winding trails of the Black Hills, or soaking in the quiet beauty of the prairie, South Dakota offers a balance of history, nature, and hospitality.

I took these photos of NYC in the spring while living there for 10 years

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.

Things to Do in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the best and most unique states to explore, an underrated favorite that always leaves me with new memories.

Admiring the view over Lake Jocassee , SC

Best Places to Visit in South Carolina

South Carolina is filled with some of the best places to visit in the South, and it’s become one of my favorite states for charm, culture, and coastal beauty.

Places to Visit in Mississippi

For me, Mississippi is one of the best and most unique states to explore, an underrated favorite that always delivers memorable experiences.

West Virginia waterfall on a family hike

Things to Do in West Virginia

Go on adventure in the Appalachian Mountains and explore West Virginia's cities on your weekend getaway.

View of Poughkeepsie NY from the Hudson River

Things to Do in Poughkeepsie

For me, Poughkeepsie is one of the best places in the Hudson Valley because it blends history, nature, and culture into a unique city that always gives me new favorite memories.

Small Towns for a Family Vacation

For me, small towns in the USA are easily one of the best choices for my family's vacation because they combine charm, safety, and a slower pace that makes it easier to spend real quality time together.

Skyscrapers reflected in a lake in Central Park, NYC

Things to Do in New York State

New York State is filled with some of the best things to do in the Northeast. It's one of my favorite destinations for culture, history, and natural beauty.

Things to Do in Provo

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

Things to Do in the Hudson Valley, New York

For me, the Hudson Valley is one of the best places in New York because it combines natural beauty, unique culture, and unforgettable moments that always make me want to come back.

Best Places to Visit in Nevada

Nevada is one of the best states to visit in the West, and it’s become one of my favorite destinations for its exciting mix of cities, history, and natural beauty.

Things to Do in Brooklyn, NYC

Brooklyn is one of my favorite parts of New York City, and every time I visit my sister-in-law and her family, I discover something new that reminds me why it’s one of the best boroughs to explore.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, USA townscape at dawn in autumn

Best Places to Visit in West Virginia

I love how West Virginia offers the best mix of rugged natural beauty, cozy small towns, and thrilling outdoor activities.

U.S. Cities For a Corporate Retreat

With cities spread across every region, it’s easy to plan the best kind of retreat whether you’re based on the East Coast, West Coast, or somewhere in between. These U.S. destinations truly offer the best combination of work and play.

Things to Do in Heber Springs, Arkansas

For me, Heber Springs is one of the best small-town getaways in Arkansas because it combines natural beauty with a unique legacy. It’s not just a town, it’s a place where every visit feels special, memorable, and deeply connected to the Ozarks.

I took these photos of sandy beaches and colorful sunsets in MA

Best Places to Visit in Massachusetts

What makes Massachusetts truly unique to me is its variety: walking the historic Freedom Trail in Boston, relaxing on Cape Cod’s beaches, or wandering through the Berkshires for art and outdoor adventure.

Unique Things to Do in Missouri

I love how Missouri offers the best mix of big-city attractions, small-town charm, and outdoor adventures. It’s the kind of place where you can explore history, culture, and natural beauty all in one trip.

I loved the stunning red and orange Yuma sunsets

Things to Do in Yuma, Arizona

Known as the sunniest city in the U.S., Yuma delivers the best mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, along with unique and sometimes underrated experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Enjoying the views of sand and ocean in Miami

Unique 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.

Memorial Day Vacation Ideas

Memorial Day vacation ideas in the U.S. are some of the most unique ways to kick off summer. With warm weather, festive events, and long weekends made for travel, this holiday is one of the best opportunities to explore new destinations or revisit your old favorites.

The Largest Cities in South Dakota

Located in the Midwest region of the United States, South Dakota is the 17th biggest state in terms of area but has the 46th largest population. For me, the largest cities in South Dakota are unique hubs of community and great destinations that make the state feel special.

Mindfulness Retreats in the United States

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

American Banjo Museum

The American Banjo Museum is home to 21,000 square feet of information that provides historical celebration of the Banjo.

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.