Where do I start?

West Coast

Cool & Unusual Things to Do in Southern California

If you are planning a vacation with many different things to do, family fun, as well as diverse history and art to discover and appreciate, then Southern California is the best place to visit.

I took this photo of the beach in Santa Barbara on a sunny day

Places to Visit in Southern (and Central) California

Southern California is one of the best regions for a vacation in the U.S. Over the years, it’s become one of my favorite destinations for sunshine, culture, and adventure.

My photo of coastal Oregon from the boat

Places to Visit in Oregon

The best part about the places to visit in Oregon is the variety: coastal escapes, vibrant cities, wine country, and mountain adventures.

I took this stunning orange-red sunset photo over the Pacific

Beaches on the West Coast

Beaches on the West Coast are some of the most unique and awe-inspiring coastal escapes in the United States. They’re easily among my favorite places for both adventure and relaxation.

Romantic Weekend Destinations on the West Coast

When I’m dreaming of a quick romantic escape, the West Coast is always one of my favorite regions to explore. For me, it’s one of the best places for couples because it offers such a unique mix of coastal towns, wine country retreats, mountain getaways, and vibrant cities

My photo of tulips during Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

12 Best Places to Visit in Washington

The first time I came to see the whales. Now I keep going back because I think that Washington State is one of the best places to visit in the U.S. It combines unique landscapes, vibrant cities, and underrated gems that always leave me with new favorite memories.

Day Trips from Seattle, WA

From coastal islands to mountain escapes, Seattle offers easy access to the best mix of scenery, culture, and adventure, often in unique and sometimes underrated destinations just a short drive or ferry ride away.

I took this photo in an orchard in Northern California

10 Places to Visit in Northern California

Northern California is a land of dramatic contrasts, windswept coasts, towering redwoods, misty valleys, alpine lakes, and volcanic landscapes. From wine country vineyards to rugged wilderness, it offers some of the most enchanting scenery in the U.S. On my many road trips across the region, these were the highlights.

10 Things to Do in Alameda

I love how Alameda blends island vibes with history, charm, and a relaxed coastal feel. It’s the best kind of getaway when you want something different without going too far.

Day Trips from San Diego

San Diego is one of my favorite cities in California, but what I love most is how easy it is to take some of the best day trips from here. For me, the location is a big part of what makes "America's Finest City" so unique.

Day Trips from Spokane, WA

From mountain lakes to historic towns, Spokane delivers the best mix of scenery, relaxation, and adventure. The best part is the variety: lakes, mountains, wineries, and historic downtowns.

10 Things to Do in Tillamook, Oregon: Cheese Factory Tours, Hiking & Ocean Views

Tillamook is the delightful county seat of Tillamook County, Oregon, located along the southeastern edge of the Pacific Ocean's beautiful Tillamook Bay.

The Largest Cities in Oregon

Oregon is the 9th largest state in terms of area and the 27th largest in terms of population.

We are two independent small content creators. While our home is in Texas, we've lived in many different places months at a time researching vacations. To us, our independence is paramount! Since 1999 we've remained independent content creators and aren't associated (and never were!) with any other companies, channels, networks or marketing groups. We do not employ any freelance writers or editors. Click here to find our one and only Youtube channel @VacationIdea. We are not associated with any other YouTube channels, networks or marketing companies (especially those using the terms "vacation ideas", "vacation idea", "dream travel", "dream vacation", etc). We've received many awards and media mentions for our work on VacationIdea.com, including Forbes Best of the Web, abc6 Morning Show, UMich, 7News, WA State Department, and many others.