Millions of Americans are flocking to Florida for domestic beach getaways this year, but not all Sunshine State destinations offer the same experience. Nestled in Southwest Florida, The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel stand out with abundant manatees and mangroves rather than luxury mansions. Here, sand dollars and seashells are treasures for beachcombers, and island time prevails on both outer islands and the mainland.We invited renowned travel content creator Leah Shoup (@LeahShoup), with

Smack dab between the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway is a little-known North Carolina county with big-name neighbors—Asheville, the Biltmore Estate and Cherokee Indian Reservation to name a few—but with charm all its own. Haywood County is not only rich in southern Appalachian heritage, such as mountain towns and local legends, but also with unique attractions and outdoor adventures.Long a favorite stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the destination has grown even m

Spring universally symbolizes renewal, but after recent global challenges, it feels like a personal call to action for a restorative escape. While visions of revival vary, North Carolinas transformed Industrial Revolution-era sites offer a universally rejuvenating experience through arts, crafts, fashion, craft brewing, interactive museums, and exceptional cuisine.These reborn spaces across the state have become thriving creative centers. Curate a regional itinerary from our top six picks, and y

West Virginia, celebrated as Almost Heaven, boasts a premier destination for off-road enthusiasts: the Hatfield-McCoy Trail Systems. Named after the infamous feuding families, these trails traverse hundreds of miles across more than one million acres of lush, river-crossed mountains—one of the worlds largest off-highway vehicle (OHV) systems. With 10 trails—many historic and two newly added—this network offers the perfect escape to unwind amid breathtaking Appalachian scenery. Known as Trail Hea

Marylands diverse landscapes—western mountains, eastern sandy beaches, and historic cities in between—offer year-round appeal. What truly distinguishes the state are its unique experiences found nowhere else in the U.S.Bordering Delaware, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C., Maryland is easily accessible by car from major Mid-Atlantic cities. Spanning just 110 miles north to south (a roughly 2-hour drive), no destination feels far away.Discover why Maryland is a must for

Missouri may be landlocked, but water defines much of its landscape. Beyond massive lakes like the Lake of the Ozarks, the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and their tributaries weave through the state, nurturing vibrant river towns. The name Missouri even derives from a Native American term meaning town of the large canoes.​Atlanta-based travel content creator Leah Shoup (@leahshoup) explored eastern Missouris river towns, immersing herself in local culture and embracing the relaxed riverside vi

Myrtle Beach, a longtime favorite getaway, boasts a 60-mile stretch of South Carolina coastline packed with activities. Its arguably the top beach destination for summer, featuring live music of all genres (much free), food festivals, art events, and more. The something for everyone appeal is exceptional, thanks to 14 diverse communities along the Grand Strand—from the lively Downtown Myrtle Beach boardwalk to the relaxed fishing village of Murrells Inlet. Whatever your vacation style, youll fi

West Virginia may not immediately come to mind as a traditional summer vacation spot since there are no sandy shores, ocean waves or big cities. But this state of small towns, craggy mountains, verdant valleys, rushing rivers — and yes, country roads — is perfect for a summer road trip, as there is always something to stop and see. Not to mention, you can leave the interstate behind and instead hop on a scenic byway thats full of interesting spots, rather than race from one spot to another with

Barbados stands out among Caribbean gems for its welcoming spirit and vibrant energy. Rooted in strong community values and time-honored etiquette, Bajan locals greet visitors with warm good mornings, good afternoons, and good nights. This compact 166-square-mile island bursts with personality. Direct flights from New York (JFK), Boston, Miami, and Charlotte make it effortless to reach. Navigating is simple—drive the entire island in hours (drive on the left, a nod to its British heritage). Dis

Experts agree theres never a bad time to visit Anchorage, but summer stands out. With nearly 495,000 acres of Chugach State Park within city limits, you can hike by day and enjoy top breweries, restaurants, and live music by night—followed by tennis or golf. The sun sets after 11 p.m. in July and 10 p.m. in August, extending your adventures.Beyond extended daylight, Anchorage summers offer prime wildlife viewing, accessible hiking, biking, boating, and seasonal feasts from farmers markets and tr

Washington, D.C., is far more than government and politics, the typical focus of national correspondents. The true heart of the nations capital is DC: a mosaic of historic neighborhoods pulsing with fresh energy; restaurants showcasing global cuisines and Michelin acclaim; dynamic events alongside timeless cultural icons—many family-oriented and free. Dive into our expert guide to the must-see highlights for summer and beyond. Family Fun in DC DC stands out as an ideal destination for families,

After a long hiatus, our shared craving for travel is stronger than ever. Amid the wanderlust, few destinations shine brighter than Anaheim, the SoCal home of Disneyland and countless beloved characters. Its fully reopened—and arguably better than before. Anaheim anchors theme park paradise with fresh attractions at Disneyland Resort, plus nearby favorites like Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain. But stay longer to uncover local treasures that appeal to every traveler. Heres our cu

West Virginia, famously dubbed "The Mountain State," boasts stunning outdoor landscapes, and Mountaineer Country—not county, but country—exemplifies this. Nestled in the northeast corner near Morgantown, Grafton, and Kingwood, this region features vast forests, rugged mountains, winding rivers, and valleys teeming with hiking, biking trails, and Monongahela River explorations. Its fitting that West Virginia Universitys mascot is the Mountaineer, embodying the bold, boundar

As one of the first European countries to reopen to American travelers this year, Greece is experiencing unprecedented demand for visits. Whether youre drawn by its rich history, vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, or stunning islands, most journeys begin in Athens, the arrival point for international flights. This ancient metropolis could fill a week effortlessly, so weve curated essential must-sees for your first days, plus our top day trips from the capital. Acropolis & Nearby Sites The

After more than a year in the dark due to the pandemic, Broadway theaters across New York City are reopening this fall. Audiences can now secure prime seats for Tony Award-winning musicals, star-powered productions, and highly anticipated returns during the 2021-22 season. Shows are announcing performance dates, with many theaters updating ticket policies and safety protocols to ensure a safe, comfortable experience on the Great White Way. Explore the must-see shows returning to Broadway and le

South Korea captivates with its striking contrasts, offering an unforgettable blend of urban energy and serene landscapes. In a single trip, discover bustling cities alongside tranquil countryside, cutting-edge technology paired with ancient traditions, traditional hanok houses nestled near futuristic skyscrapers, majestic mountains, relaxed beaches, high-speed trains, invigorating hikes, timeless cuisine, and innovative gastronomy. This compact nation—roughly the size of Indiana—delivers except

Nestled in the Leeward Islands of the Eastern Caribbean, St. Kitts and Nevis—the smallest nation in the Americas—boasts an abundance of natural wonders despite its petite size. Emerald volcanic peaks, vibrant flamboyant trees, and encircling turquoise waters define this true hidden gem.These sister islands offer ideal escapes for weekends or extended stays, with direct flights from major U.S. cities like Miami, New York, and Atlanta now available. Always verify the latest COVID-19 travel protoco

South Carolinas barbecue traditions, rooted in centuries of history, rival any in the U.S. This is one of the few places where four distinct sauces grace the same table, offering endless flavor adventures.Follow the South Carolina BBQ Trail to discover over 250 restaurants spanning the mountains, midlands, and coast. Pair your meal with sweet tea or craft brews and spirits from the Satisfy Your Thirst Trail. Fair warning: you might find yourself craving a plate by the end.Barbecue, South Carolin

Alabama brims with exceptional cuisine wherever your travels take you. The states culinary riches are so vast that an effort to identify the top 100 dishes expanded to over 200 must-try favorites.Navigate this abundance with our curated road trip from north to south, featuring stops in major cities across the North, Central, South, and Gulf Coast regions. Each includes an appetite-building activity paired with iconic local dishes.Fair warning: You might need stretchy pants for the ride home.Shoa

Summer evokes warm days, refreshing popsicles, leisurely bike rides, and the unhurried joy of endless free time. For years, weve sought to recapture that nostalgic essence of childhood vacations. Discover it alive and thriving in the Golden Isles of Georgia, where languid days blend seamlessly into serene nights amid coastal charm. Kayak through peaceful marshes spotting dolphins, wander oak-shaded paths, relax on uncrowded beaches, witness baby sea turtles hatching, explore Victorian architect