As someone who moved to Northern Virginia a few years ago, learning the area was definitely a priority. Upon my search, I came across some very nice places to dine either by yourself or with family, areas to explore, and activities to engage in. Since Northern Virginia and the DMV area itself are extremely large, I thought I'd share some cool places that I have visited and still visit with hopes of inspiring you to check out these places and make great memories too!
A few years ago my family and I embarked on a journey to visit all 63 National Parks and as many National Monuments as possible. We LOVE the National Park Service (NPS) and their sites because they are very well maintained, clean, accessible to people with a range of abilities, they are family friendly and they have bathrooms! Here is a very condensed list of some of our favorite National Parks and Monuments (so far) as well as our favorite hikes, sites, excursions, and more! MY #1 TIP when visiting any National Park is to make a stop at the Visitors Center to talk to a Ranger about things to do in the area and gather information about trail closures, etc.
I spent the most magical 5 days in Oahu and stayed at Disney’s Aulani Resort! This list has everything we did including where we stayed, the best eats, and the most breathtaking adventures. Perfect for anyone planning a dreamy Hawaiian getaway.
Nashville is my favouriteeee place on earth (besides New York) and I've visited quite a few times now. Here are my favourite hotels in Nashville, Tennessee - perfect for your next girls trip filled with country music!
Most people only think of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Key West when they think of Southern Florida. There is a lot more to this part of the state! Let's explore all these coastal cities together!
We host guests year-round at our own Kissimmee villa, and the happiest travelers always bring a few small comfort upgrades from home. These are the Amazon picks that make any Orlando-area Airbnb or vacation rental sleep darker, feel cozier, and run smoother - all cheap enough to toss in the suitcase or ship ahead.
A curated mix of Miami go-tos, from kid-friendly beaches and laid-back brunch spots perfect for family days, to date night restaurants and scenic romantic spots. Local favorites and hidden gems.
As a Bath Co resident of 20 years, and a small business owner of a lodging establishment and restaurant, I love to give recs on what to see, do, and dine in and around our area. We live in a nature lover’s paradise that is straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting. With bucolic pastoral scenes, rolling hills, and towering Allegheny mountains, wander the back roads of Bath for fresh water streams, hidden lakes and springs, and some really great eats along the way!
I absolutely love all of these places listed below!! I was born and raised in Nashville so these are some of my favorite spots! Nashville is so big and there is so much of every category to choose from! There is a spot for everyone whether you’re looking for coffee, dinner, shops, hangout spot, drinks, or just to walk around the city!
Great spots in Okc to go with or without the kids and plenty of fun to be had! Whether you’re outdoorsy or enjoy the AC, there is plenty for everyone in the heart of Okc.
If you’re heading to Lucerne and love indulging in nature while enjoying some tasty treats and historic sights, this is the list for you. From gorgeous pastries to awe-inspiring monuments and scenic marketplaces, these recommendations will help you explore the best Lucerne has to offer in a cozy, personal way.
Planning a family trip to Florida? Find kid-friendly attractions, travel essentials, stroller-friendly picks, and practical tips for an easier vacation with children. From one mom to the next
I love what Southern Arizona has to offer! From the sunny weather to the activities and the culture, it is a magical place with so much to do! I hope you enjoy this list of outdoor activities along with culinary and arts suggestions!
As a travel writer, I love to have inspirational items and color palattes in my house that remind me of my past travels. Or, that inspire me for future adventures! This all takes me back to Greece, specificaly the beautiful islands of Paros and Santorini. I can bring the breezy blue vibe right to my home in New England anytime!
I'd use this as a compact Grenoble cheat sheet: the places I'd point a friend toward for mountain views, quiet gardens, memorable museums and easy stays. I've mixed the city's essential sights with hotels that suit everything from a quick train stop to a family base.
As a native Floridian, here are a few places I totally recommend visiting! Whether you're hungry, looking for fun, or just want something new I got some places for you!
Discover Idaho's hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation Idaho's diverse attractions promise unforgettable experience for all travelers. Start your journey today!
A curated list of the Tennessee places that are actually worth the trip — the scenic views, the cozy small towns, the family‑friendly stops, and the hidden gems that make this state feel like home. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family adventure, or a “we just need to get out of the house” day trip, these are the spots I always recommend.
Explore Paraty's finest pastries and wellness centers during your fall break. From delicious bakeries to soothing spas, this list has it all covered. Enjoy a blend of delightful treats and relaxing experiences in one of Brazil's most charming coastal towns.
Take inspiration from the Grand European Tour of ages past and plan your own! Whether it’s one city or five, you’ll see why this time-honored tradition is still a fundamental experience for many. Categorized by city, here are a few of my suggestions as you map out your own adventure!
Having lived in Vancouver for 6 amazing years, I’ve discovered some incredible spots to eat, play, and shop. From hidden gems to popular favorites, this list is filled with my go-to places.
Nashville is a vibrant city full of things to do! Especially for couples! Here are some of my favorite date ideas for fall in Nashville! Though keep in mind these are things that could be done with friends or family too most of the time so they're not limited to just couples. But I am a wedding photographer so that's where my brain goes :)
Skip the tourist traps. This is my local's guide to Vegas, from a quiet morning at Floyd Lamb Park to a show at Absinthe, dinner at Oscar's, and a night out on Fremont Street. You'll find old-school Vegas, great eats in Chinatown, and a few spots that feel nothing like a casino, like AREA15!
My favorite local places in AZ ranging from things to do outdoors during nice weather seasons, places to go to beat the heat, my favorite coffee shops(a must), toddler activities, with the girls, etc!🩷
These are all really fun and cool things to do while you are visiting our city. Sometimes St. Louis gets a bad rep but we really do have a lot to offer.
I grew up in Beaufort, South Carolina, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. It's one of those towns that never loses its charm, with breathtaking coastal views, moss-draped oak trees, and a slower pace that makes you want to soak in every moment. Whether you're walking along the waterfront, exploring the historic streets, or watching the sunset over the marsh, there's beauty around every corner. One of my favorite things about Beaufort is the incredible local food—from fresh seafood to cozy hometown restaurants that make you feel like family. If you're ever looking for a place full of Southern hospitality, rich history, and unforgettable scenery, Beaufort is definitely worth a visit.
For the last three years, I’ve traveled for work for a week or two at a time and have finally nailed down my essentials for life on the road and in a hotel.
everything I used while traveling solo + with friends across 8 countries over 5 weeks in europe
most available on amazon for quick/last-minute shopping & returns ◡̈
A list of places we love to visit, eat, drink and have fun at! Atlanta has so many amazing places and hidden gems if you look in the right place and keep an open mind you will enjoy it!
Discover the vibrant city of Belo Horizonte through my curated Benable list! 🌆🍴 From must-visit eateries serving local flavors to exciting activities and hidden gems, this guide has it all. Plus, enjoy a personal touch with my photography capturing the essence of BH's charm. Perfect for foodies, adventurers, and culture enthusiasts alike!
This is your key to embracing the essence of Cuba, NY and immersing yourself in its diverse offerings. Whether you're a local seeking new experiences or a visitor eager to uncover hidden treasures, this curated list has something for everyone.
hotels and rental homes near disneyland and california adventure that keep coming up when quiet, blackout curtains, genuinely clean rooms, and comfortable beds matter as much as being close to the parks. built with sensory sensitivities in mind on purpose, because a day of sensory overload at the parks still needs somewhere calm to land at night (:
A handy collection for anyone planning a trip here. You’ll find coastal views, relaxing walks, and memorable local spots, plus hotel choices that can make the whole experience feel a little more relaxed and memorable.
I've visited Dalat 4 times and have gotten to know the city pretty well. First time in Dalat? My recommendations have the best vegan restaurants to eat, places to stay, and unique things to do in Dalat, Vietnam so you have a great trip!
These are all my finds in Vilnius that bring me joy or peace upon visiting. They're simple but gold, if you're ever in Vilnius I suggest looking up some of these spots, not all of them are for a first time visit so check them out and decide for yourself. 🙌
As a travel agent I travel a lot. So, I always need to make sure I have enough products with me to last the duration of my vacation. I have shared my must haves on all vacations in this list. I even have must haves just for cruising.
I’ve been travelling to Zakynthos since I was a baby and now with children myself, these are my top recommended places to go for an amazing family holiday! 🧿
This list features the tried-and-true gear we've used in both our truck camper and camper van. Every item has earned its spot through real road trips, mountain hikes, and cozy campfire nights. Whether you're outfitting your rig for full-time travel or planning a weekend escape, these picks balance function, comfort, and packability—no fluff, just the stuff that works.
Located about 50 miles west of Charlotte in Cleveland County is small town friendly Boiling Springs, home of Gardner Webb University. With a population of less than five thousand and one stoplight, Boiling Springs has a small town and easy going charm that you should definitely check out if you’re ever close by!
My 7 year old daughter and I used our park hopper passes to go back again and again to the Yeti roller coaster and the Pandora/Avatar ride. I was literally so amazed by how beautiful this park was and we enjoyed just walking around and seeing all the sights. On average, according to my iphone, we walked 15 to 20 miles per day.
These are the most beautiful spots to see nature, gardens in Paris and parks you cannot miss - some are super secret gardens too, so much so even locals miss them!
As a native Floridian, island girly, and professional lover of the sun, take my advice on what you need to survive the heat! I ALWAYS have these things in my grab bag, ready to go whenever I'm in need of some sunshine and waves.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas is a charming Ozark getaway known for its historic hotels, scenic views, and unique small-town feel. I’ve gathered my favorite places to stay, must-see attractions, and things to do to help you plan an easy, memorable trip.
If you're heading to Albuquerque and yearning for a wellness retreat, this list has got you covered. From serene nature reserves and national parks to relaxing hotels, here are some top-notch recommendations to make your trip enriching and rejuvenating. Dive into nature and indulge in some well-deserved self-care!
Wise County, VA - my hometown heartland! Discover local favorites from delicious comfort food to stunning outdoor escapes. Follow along for insider tips on our charming community!
An itinerary from our first time in Vegas! There is so many things to do, and only a so little time in a long weekend but this is most of what we were able to fit into our trip! Of course you will also walk The Strip and stop into several casinos, but here are some additional things I would recommend making time for! 🌟
Japan had been on my bucket list for years, and this 7-day itinerary took me from the incredible food scene in Osaka, to the temples of Kyoto, and finally the bright lights of Tokyo. These are the products, travel gear, and services that genuinely made my trip easier and the things I’d happily pack again. Osaka → Kyoto → Tokyo
Everything I packed, used, wore, and loved during my 7-day Japan trip.
Must haves for your next European vacation! I will be traveling to Paris, London & Lisbon in the begining of October so I'm listing all of my wants and needs!
Your go-to resource for crafting your perfect weekend getaways and ensuring you have everything you need for an unforgettable trip. After traveling for over 15 years, 150 + flights, and 50 destination locations this is the starter kit to use if you want a relaxing weekend while having all your personal home favorites.
As an avid traveler of my home state (Washington), I have come across some of the best coffee shops! I’d love to share those with you. Hopefully during your travels through Washington, you’ll get to experience them as well!
I have also included my favorite drinks with each coffee shop! Enjoy!🌷
My go-to spots around the city that I recommend to any & all who visit. Toronto has so many amazing places to checkout, but these are the ones I really feel are worthwhile, and give you a taste of what the city has to offer!
Living abroad in Thailand taught me quickly that certain items make life easier, smoother, and way less stressful. These are the travel essentials, remote work tools, apartment finds, and everyday items I personally use, repurchase, or wish I had sooner while living abroad in Thailand
A little photo journal of the places I visited in Iceland — waterfalls, craters, caves, black‑sand beaches, and all the wild landscapes that completely stole my breath. This isn’t a guide or an affiliate board, just my own memories and the spots that made me stop, stare, and feel tiny in the best way. If you’re planning a trip or just love Iceland’s magic, here are the locations I explored, captured through my own camera and my own eyes.
i overpack every single time, then compress it all into one carry-on while Luna, my tabby, claims the empty suitcase. these are the most-searched, viral packing cubes, carry-ons everyone films & in-flight comfort finds that make every trip smoother 🤍 packing, bags, comfort & travel tech | some links earn me a commission at no cost to you
I am a picky** beach person, but these products make it so much easier and more efficient to enjoy the sand and the waves--as well as post-trip clean up! These are products I use both for our beach vacations and our weekend trips to nearby Virginia Beach!
I travel several times a year, whether it’s quick trips to Florida or longer adventures in Europe. I’ve narrowed down my absolute must-haves that make every trip smoother and more enjoyable. Shop my travel essentials below!
As a Bajan, I'm constantly being asked where to eat, what to do and what visitors shouldn't miss. 🇧🇧 Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming about one, these are some of my favorite spots, experiences and recommendations from around the island.
Heading to Bruges soon?🇧🇪 I'm from the region, so I've got some great travel tips and local spots for you! No matter how long you're staying, this guide is here to help you explore the real Bruges. Think cosy cafés, romantic canals, secret streets, and the best places for Belgian chocolate and beer! #BrugesLocalGuide #HiddenBruges #ExploreBruges #BelgiumTravelTips #VisitBruges
my favorite places in and around Boston!! food, drinks, activities, museums, and anything else i love! since living in allston, i’ve discovered so many new places and types of food to try.
Kona is definitely one of my favorite places to decompress, unwind, and just be in the moment. There's something about listening to the crashing waves and the smell of the air that makes me feel at ease. Kona is a little more laid back than Maui, and often not as crowded. If you love to hike, snorkel, walking on the beach (green and black sand) this definitely is the place for you. If your plans consists of staying a week or more, I would highly recommend renting a condo or house.
Having a Go Bag packed and prepped for any last minute plans is something that has helped me feel like I can be spontaneous without the fear of being completely unprepared! If you’re like me and can’t be caught dead without some essentials (lip balm, hand sanitizer, a snack and a face wipe at the very LEAST) here is some inspiration. Throw your top picks in a bag, keep it in your closet, and be ready when opportunity strikes.
Quick tip: I like to keep daytime necessities in one bag and overnight items in another so I can quickly grab one or both as needed when I leave!
I love finding fun, family-friendly things to do close to home! This list is packed with some of our favorite parks, playgrounds, splash pads, ice cream spots, and rainy day activities around Lorain County. Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon outing or a full day of fun, there’s something here for everyone!
Denver is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a first timer of a local there are some must-see attractions and expereiences.
Driving I-70 out of Denver has become a legend—and instagram account—in its own right, but the little town of Idaho Springs deserves more of your attention than just a quick stopover! It's a super fun, short little main street with character, great food, and friendly people. Make it a destination rather than a drive by!