California’s iconic Highway 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), is a bucket-list road trip filled with jaw-dropping coastal cliffs, charming beach towns, dramatic ocean views, and unforgettable pit stops. Whether you’re doing it solo, with friends, or as a romantic getaway, this ultimate guide helps you plan the perfect Highway 1 adventure from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The U.S. boasts over 400 national park sites. But timing your visit right can mean the difference between a magical experience and a frustrating one. Always check trail closures, road conditions, and permits ahead of time via the official NPS website. And pack layers — mountain weather can change fast. Here's when and where to go.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a charming coastal city steeped in history and brimming with vibrant culture. Known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, bustling waterfront, and renowned seafood restaurants, Portsmouth offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern attractions.

Traverse City, Michigan offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, local culture. Dotted along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, the city is famous for its freshwater beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rolling vineyards. Visitors flock here not only for the breathtaking scenery but also for the National Cherry Festival, celebrating the region’s cherry-growing heritage.

Monterey, California, is an absolute must-visit destination renowned for its breathtaking coastal beauty and exceptionally rich marine life. Famous worldwide for the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, the city provides incredible opportunities to explore fascinating underwater ecosystems and learn about marine conservation.

Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington, Vermont, effortlessly captivates visitors with its breathtaking waterfront views and lively, vibrant arts scene. The city presents a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, from sailing and biking on scenic trails to exploring nearby natural wonders. Burlington is an unforgettable destination for leisurely relaxation.

Bend, Oregon, is an absolute must-visit destination for all outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Dotted amidst the breathtaking Cascade Mountains, Bend offers a wide range of world-class hiking trails, exhilarating mountain biking routes, and fantastic skiing opportunities during the winter months. Bend, Oregon provides an unforgettable travel experience every season of the year.

Hocking Hills, Ohio, nestled in the Appalachian foothills, is a natural wonderland where waterfalls cascade over sandstone cliffs, caves carve through ancient rock, and forests hum with life. This lesser-known gem, just an hour from Columbus, offers a 24-hour escape for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking serenity. Here’s how to immerse yourself in its rugged beauty.

Where was Grosse Pointe Garden Society filmed? While the show is set in the affluent, Tudor-mansion-filled suburb of Grosse Pointe, Michigan, the cameras didn’t roll there. Instead, the production team headed south to Atlanta, Georgia, specifically Assembly Studios in Doraville, to bring this posh world to life. These are the filming locations for Grosse Point Garden Society.

San Juan, Puerto Rico is your ticket to a perfect 24-hour escape. Just a short flight from the U.S., this city blends Old World history with modern island flair. From historic forts to beachside cocktails, San Juan offers a whirlwind of culture and relaxation. Why San Juan? Its mix of historic forts, vibrant cuisine, and beachy vibes makes it a Caribbean treasure for a quick, unforgettable escape.

On a sweltering August morning in 2025, a power outage halted service on several subway lines, stranding thousands of New Yorkers during rush hour. Commuters packed onto platforms, venting frustrations over delays that are all too familiar. This incident, one of many plaguing the MTA, underscores the urgent need for change in a transit system strained by aging infrastructure and growing demand.

Branson, Missouri, tucked in the rolling Ozark Mountains, is an escape where the twang of live country music, the rush of roller coasters, and the shimmer of Table Rock Lake create an unforgettable 24-hour getaway. Known as the “Live Music Show Capital of the World,” this small city pulses with over 50 theaters showcasing Broadway-style spectacles. Here’s how to make every moment count in Branson.

Where was The Gilded Age filmed? Set in the 1880s New York City of robber barons and social climbers, The Gilded Age needed locations that screamed wealth and history. While the show’s story unfolds on Fifth Avenue and Newport’s summer estates, filming took place across New York, Rhode Island, and even a dash of Pennsylvania and England for Season 3. Here’s the lowdown on the key spots to visit.

Grosse Pointe, Michigan, a collection of five picturesque communities along Lake St. Clair’s shimmering shores, is a hidden gem just minutes from Detroit. Known for its tree-lined streets, grand historic homes, and vibrant community spirit, this enclave blends old-world elegance with modern Midwest hospitality. Why Grosse Pointe? It's a Midwest treasure for a quick, sophisticated escape.

Duluth, Minnesota, perched on the rugged shores of Lake Superior, blends urban vibrancy with the wild beauty of the North Shore. This lesser-known city, an easy drive from Minneapolis, offers a 24-hour getaway filled with historic charm, cultural gems, and outdoor adventures. Here’s how to dive into its lakeside allure.

Tofino, British Columbia, a surf town on Vancouver Island’s west coast, is where rugged beaches, ancient rainforests, and seafood feasts create a thrilling 24-hour getaway. This coastal haven offers adventure and serenity. Why Tofino? Its wild beaches, rainforest trails, and seafood bounty make it a thrilling, under-the-radar retreat. Here’s how to dive into its wild beauty.

Grand Rapids, Michigan, is quietly becoming one of the country’s most vibrant urban getaways. Known as “Beer City, USA,” Grand Rapids offers a booming food and craft beverage scene and easy access to outdoor adventures along Lake Michigan. Here are 11 reasons this underrated city deserves a spot on your 2025 travel list.

Upgrading to first class for free is a travel fantasy that can become reality with the right strategies. This comprehensive guide unveils proven tips, from leveraging loyalty programs to mastering the art of polite persistence, to help you snag that coveted first-class seat for free. From flying domestically or internationally, these insider secrets will elevate your travel game.

Galena, Illinois, a 19th-century town along the Galena River, is an escape where brick-lined streets, rolling hills, and small-town warmth create a perfect 24-hour getaway. Tucked in the Driftless Area, this former lead-mining hub offers history, nature, and comfort food. Why Galena? Its historic charm and cozy cuisine make it a Midwest treasure for a quick retreat. Here’s how to savor your visit.

Marfa, Texas, a remote West Texas town in the Chihuahuan Desert, is an unlikely haven where minimalist art, cosmic skies, and cowboy grit converge. Far from urban bustle, this quirky enclave offers a 24-hour escape that feels both otherworldly and deeply rooted. Why Marfa? Its blend of avant-garde art and frontier spirit makes it an offbeat escape. Here’s how to soak in Marfa’s surreal charm.