Midwest

Best Places to Visit in Illinois

For me, Illinois isn’t just about its big cities. It’s about the unique destinations, the favorite traditions, and the underrated gems that make the state worth exploring.

I took this photo of sunflowers in Kansas

Best Places to Visit in Kansas

Kansas often surprises you in the best way. It’s not just one big open stretch of road, it’s a patchwork of small towns, college cities, prairie trails, and cowboy history.

Best Midwest Weekend Getaways

The Midwest is full of some of the best weekend getaways in the United States, and it’s become one of my favorite regions for a mix of small-town charm, vibrant cities, and natural beauty.

Best Places to Visit in Minnesota

What I love most is how versatile Minnesota is! There’s always something new to discover, and my every visit feels like the best kind of adventure.

My photo of spring tulips in a Wisconsin botanical garden

Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is filled with some of the best places to visit in the Midwest, and it’s become one of my favorite states for a mix of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and vibrant cities.

Best Romantic Weekend Getaways in Ohio

For me, Ohio’s romantic escapes are some of the best in the Midwest. We've discovered unique destinations, favorite experiences, and underrated gems that are easy to love.

Places to Visit in Middleton, WI

Middleton, Wisconsin is known as the ‘The Good Neighbor City.’ It’s a small and inviting town with a strong cultural heritage.

My photo on a relaxing summer afternoon in Missouri

What makes Missouri so special is its variety. You can book a luxury resort overlooking the Lake of the Ozarks, enjoy a historic boutique hotel in St. Louis or Kansas City, or find an underrated lodge tucked into the Ozark Mountains.

Best Places to Visit in Missouri

For me, Missouri is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest because it combines unique landscapes, vibrant cities, and underrated small towns that always leave me with new favorite memories.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Whether you are looking for outstanding scenery, best food, great family activities or gracious historic architecture, Michigan ticks all the boxes for an amazing vacation.

Best Weekend Getaways from Chicago

For me, weekend getaways from Chicago are some of the best and most unique escapes, underrated favorites that always deliver a memorable break.

Best Places to Visit in Indiana

At first glance, Indiana might surprise you — and I think that’s exactly what makes it such a great destination. From its vibrant cities to its thriving food and brewery scene, the "The Hoosier State" delivers way more personality than people expect.

Best Weekend Getaways in Iowa

Iowa is home to beautiful scenery, a diverse choice of outdoor activities and unique attractions such as the Crystal Lake Cave and West Lake Okoboj.

Best Places to Visit in Idaho

The best part about visiting Idaho is the variety: hot springs, mountain adventures, and charming downtowns.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit 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 things to do near me 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.