Vacation Idea

Best 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.

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.

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.

Best Beaches in New England

For me, the beaches in New England are some of the best in the U.S. Many are rich in rare fauna and flora that are unique to New England.

I took this photo of a sailboat on the horizon

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.

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.

Gorgeous sunny summer day at Freeman Lake in Elizabethtown, KY

Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

For me, Kentucky is one of the best states to visit because it combines unique traditions, natural beauty, and unforgettable cultural stops that always leave me with new favorite memories.

My photo of mountain views on our weekend getaway

Best Weekend Getaways in Colorado

Colorado weekend getaways have meant discovering unique towns, hidden trails, and favorite experiences that are rejuvenating and inspiring.

I took these sunset photos while driving through Jackson Hole Valley

Best Wyoming Vacations

Wyoming is home to some of the best vacations in the country. From the dramatic peaks in Grand Teton National Park to the world-famous geysers of Yellowstone, this state has some of the best scenery, wildlife, and outdoor adventures you can find anywhere.

Lake Allatoona at Red Top Mountain State Park

Places to Visit in Georgia, USA

Georgia is one of the best states to visit in the South, and it’s become one of my favorite destinations for history, culture, and natural beauty.

Enjoying Maine coastal harbor in the fall

Best Places to Visit in Maine

Famed for its stunning coastline and quaint fishing towns, Maine can keep both city lovers and nature enthusiasts busy throughout the year.

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.

My photo on a relaxing summer afternoon in Missouri

Hotels & Resorts 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.

My photo of a sunset over the hills during our scenic road NC trip

Best Places to Visit in North Carolina

I love how North Carolina offers the best mix of mountains, beaches, and vibrant cities. It feels underrated compared to some nearby states, but that’s exactly what makes exploring here so rewarding. You can always find something fresh and memorable.

Get Your Best Vacation Idea!

We got started in 1999 the way most good trips begin, by following a feeling. What kept us going were all the amazing discoveries, conversations with locals that pointed us to hidden gems, all my unexpected new favorites! And the search continues...

I'll help you figure which vacation is the best for you! In each section, I'm including my recommendations for my favorite hotels, best places to visit, amazing weekend getaways and affordable day trips.

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 that every person can go on and enjoy! 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.