Lauren Dana

As we bid farewell to summer and head into autumn, balmy breezes are replaced with crisp, cozy days well spent picking apples and pumpkins and winding through corn mazes. The seasonal foliage is just the icing on the cake: All around the country, tens—if not hundreds—of thousands of folks head out to witness the leaves changing colors. This type of travel is known colloquially as “leaf-peeping”—how apropos, we know!—and takes place all season long. When it comes to the top leaf peeping spots across the country, travelers can take their pick of Instagram-worthy locales, some of which may be much closer to home than expected. What’s more, the best fall foliage in the USA can be found throughout both coasts, from the beaches of Massachusetts to the mountains of Colorado and beyond. Ahead, we’ve rounded up 20-plus of our favorite fall foliage spots across the country, including mega-popular national parks, underrated mountain towns and the like—each of which is teeming with postcard-worthy vistas and bright hues. So, hit the road, grab your camera and explore these lovely leaf-peeping locales before the season slips away. 

Food festivals are the ultimate celebration of taste, culture, and community, and no two are ever the same. Each offers something different, whether it’s regional delicacies that showcase a city’s heritage,  chef-driven creations or street food favorites (or a mix of all three). Some festivals pay tribute to a single ingredient—think cherries, lobsters or mushrooms—while others highlight entire cuisines or dining scenes, turning city streets into open-air kitchens. Beyond the plates, you’ll often find cooking demonstrations, beverage tastings, competitions and concerts. Depending on the festival, you may very well catch a TV-famous chef in action, discover a new flavor you’ll want to recreate at home or graze your way through an afternoon with friends. Wherever you go, the best food festivals in America promise one thing above all: a delicious adventure that feeds both your appetite and your curiosity. RECOMMENDED: The best music festivals in the U.S.

Brunch in New York isn’t just a meal—it’s a full-blown weekend ritual. For adults, it’s about bottomless mimosas, poached eggs stacked just so, and catching up with friends over that second (or third) cup of coffee, or maybe even a mimosa or Bloody Mary. But here’s the good news: kids can totally get in on the fun, too. In fact, brunch with little ones can be its own kind of celebration—that is, if you pick the right spot. That’s where kid-friendly brunch comes in. These are the restaurants where nobody side-eyes a stroller squeezed between tables, where spilled syrup is just part of the ambiance, and where menus actually cater to tiny diners and tired parents. Think: stacks of pancakes taller than your toddler, gooey grilled cheeses and plenty of coffee (and cocktails) to keep the grown-ups sane. Bonus points for spaces with a little entertainment factor—whether that’s a retro diner counter where kids can spin on stools, whimsical décor that feels like a storybook or a steady parade of dogs passing by while you sip in peace. September 2025: This season’s roundup leans into family favorites with a playful twist. From Bubby’s timeless comfort food (and legendary pie) to Serendipity 3’s over-the-top frozen drinks, we’re spotlighting the places where brunch feels less like a chore and more like a fun family outing. And yes, Barking Dog made the cut—because what’s more kid-friendly than pancakes à la mode and puppies for company? Learn more about how we curate and review at Time

Whether you're looking to rekindle the spark, celebrate a milestone, or simply enjoy some uninterrupted time together, a couples vacation serves as the perfect reset. The U.S. is home to an impressive range of romantic getaways that cater to every kind of duo—whether you're the food-obsessed pair in search of the hottest new restaurants, the outdoorsy type craving scenic hikes or the spa lovers looking to unplug completely.  From cozy mountain lodges and wine country retreats to stylish city stays and sun-drenched beach resorts, there's no shortage of dreamy destinations best experienced with a plus one. Ahead, we’ve rounded up top couples vacation spots across the U.S., each offering a distinct blend of setting, ambiance and activities to entice all types of couples.  RECOMMENDED: Most romantic getaways in the U.S.A.Book these romantic hotels in America

Cookies manage to feel both nostalgic and endlessly reinventable, making them a classic, comforting choice, albeit with a touch of excitement. They're also incredibly versatile—just as welcome at a kid's birthday party as they are on a late-night snack run. Portable, giftable and endlessly customizable, they come in just about every flavor combination imaginable. That's part of the magic: Whether you're devoted to the classic chocolate chip, loyal to peanut butter or intrigued by modern mashups that fold in potato chips, pretzels and cereal (don't knock it until you try it), your dream cookie is out there.  Across America, bakeries and cookie shops have become neighborhood staples, destinations for both locals and visitors who crave the perfect balance of crispy edges, gooey centers and innovative mix-ins. The bakeries we've rounded up here celebrate the best of both worlds: honoring tradition while giving the humble cookie room to evolve. From iconic institutions that have perfected their recipes over decades to newer innovators reimagining the genre, each stop on this list proves that the cookie is still one of life's simplest—and sweetest—pleasures. August 2025: For this update, we casted a wide net—from Philadelphia institutions that have perfected the classics to Minneapolis bakers turning out half-pound monsters, and cult favorites like Christina Tosi's Compost Cookie in New York. This curation highlights the spectrum of America's cookie scene: famed heritage shops that

Every good vacation should include a trip to an art museum. Contemporary art grabs our attention with groundbreaking ideas and new uses of materials, and there’s true pleasure to be had in contemplating the old masters and mistresses, particularly if it’s a work we recognize from popular culture or the cover of our art history textbook. Most art museums today offer immersive exhibits that engage you more than a two-dimensional painting: soundgardens, digital art that responds to your touch or presence, VR worlds you don goggles to enter. And while we don’t have the Mona Lisa, the U.S. has incredible world-class institutions that pull visitors from all over the world. Here are our top 43 art museums in the country. Note: prices listed are for adults; most institutions offer discounts for seniors, students, children, visitors with disabilities and residents of the city/state. Most have a monthly free day or two, and many add a surcharge for visiting temporary exhibitions—check each museum’s website for details. RECOMMENDED: The weirdest museums in the U.S.10 immersive experiences in the U.S.

Few experiences are more humbling than gazing into the dark night sky filled with stars—and, if you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot planets, galaxies and even the International Space Station. Unfortunately, though, this is no longer possible in many parts of the country due to light pollution. As a result, it has been reported that nearly 80 percent of Americans can no longer see the Milky Way from their current location. It should come as no surprise then that astrotourism is on the rise, with many folks flocking hundreds—if not thousands—of miles from home in search of starry skies. However, you may not have to travel too far from home to enjoy top-notch stargazing opps. That’s because the United States is home to over 60 International Dark Sky Reserves, which are designated and protected areas of land that have an exceptional quality of nighttime darkness and advocate for a reduction in light pollution. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best places to stargaze in the U.S., from the mountains and national parks to the beaches and beyond.

It’s no secret that America’s natural hot springs have long been celebrated for their restorative powers. Rich in minerals, these geothermal waters are believed to help boost circulation, lower blood pressure, ease stress, relieve pain and reduce inflammation—just to name a few potential benefits. And besides, who doesn’t enjoy a rejuvenating soak, especially following a strenuous hike or high-energy activity? If you need more convincing, we’ve got you covered: From under-the-radar picks in Nevada to ultra-scenic spots in Alaska to a centuries-old historic haunt in Virginia, we’ve rounded up the best natural hot springs in the U.S. to inspire your future travels. RECOMMENDED: The most Instagrammable pools in the U.S.  

There’s something truly magical about watching colorful hot air balloons lift into the sky, floating high above the horizon. Across the U.S., hot air balloon festivals turn that special experience into an all-out celebration—complete with sunrise ascensions, evening balloon glows, live music, food trucks, and plenty of family-friendly fun. These gatherings draw ballooning enthusiasts, first-time riders and curious spectators alike, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the spectacle—or even get up in a balloon themselves. Some festivals are set against dramatic backdrops, from desert mesas to mountain peaks, while others unfold over fairgrounds and small-town parks, creating a vibrant, communal energy on the ground. Whether you’re chasing the perfect photo op, checking off a bucket-list ride or simply soaking up the view, these hot air balloon festivals offer a front-row seat to the wonder. Ahead, 10 spectacular hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. that are worth planning a trip around. RECOMMENDED: The most romantic places in the USA—and they're all in the great outdoors

Few water features strike the perfect balance between thrill and chill like a lazy river. What's more, cruising down one is among the most satisfying ways to unwind—no agenda, no hurry, just a slow drift through calm waters, often paired with spectacular scenery like waterfalls or lush landscaping.  From rooftop rivers in bustling cities to winding streams tucked into mountain resorts, lazy rivers have become beloved centerpieces at hotels, resorts and water parks across the U.S. Some are designed for pure chill; others throw in fun twists like wave sections or swim-up bars. Ahead, our favorite lazy rivers in the USA that are worth the ride. RECOMMENDED: The best indoor water parks in the U.S. to slide all year long

When the sun is blazing, what could be more refreshing—or, frankly, fun—than a day well spent at a water park? Whether it's exhilarating water slides with thrilling drops, relaxing lazy rivers, or exciting wave pools, the best water parks in the USA offer something for everyone. Water parks aren't exclusively for kids: Our top picks also offer plenty of fun for adults. Moreover, there is no age limit when it comes to enjoying a high-speed slide or screaming all the way down before plunging into the cool water below. Some even offer dedicated adult-only pools and private spaces for those seeking kid-free serenity. While some water parks are great extensions to trips like Disney, Universal or Legoland, others are destinations in and of themselves. Many also offer year-round fun with indoor areas, ensuring you can enjoy the water regardless of the weather. Finally, as you scroll through this list, you'll notice top-notch amenities like private cabana rentals, ample food and drink options and, in some cases, freebies like unlimited soft drinks and parking: always a bonus in our book. RECOMMENDED:🏖️ The best beaches in the U.S.😎 The best family vacations in the U.S.🎢 The best amusement parks in the U.S.🏨 The best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.🏞️ The best national parks in the U.S.🛝 The best Airbnbs in the U.S. with the craziest amenities

Few travel experiences capture the spirit of adventure quite like a road trip—and in America, it's practically a rite of passage. With thousands of miles of scenic byways, historic highways and wide-open roads, the United States, in our opinion, is best explored via four-wheel drive. While there are many reasons to love road trips, it's the freedom to roam that makes them truly special. Without the rush, distractions, or rigid schedules that come with pre-booked flights or train tickets, travelers can explore at their own pace—lingering where they want, skipping what doesn't interest them and embracing spontaneity. So, instead of racing to an airport or train station, travelers have ample time to explore, be it strolling through small towns, pulling over for a scenic hike or making a beeline for quirky roadside attractions. Whether you're weaving through coastal cliffs along the Pacific Coast Highway, winding through the Smoky Mountains on the Blue Ridge Parkway or cruising through red rock arches on Utah's Route 12, there's a scenic and spectacular route for every kind of traveler. Here are 20 of our favorites across the country, each offering picturesque landscapes and postcard-worthy views. We've also included Airbnbs to stay in at the end of each route!

What began as a humble pie shop in Tribeca has grown into a full-blown brunch institution, the kind of place where comfort food meets New York buzz. These days, Bubby's has transformed into a lively café where families, foodies and the brunch-obsessed gather for pancakes, omelets and the like. The sun-soaked dining room hums with energy, packed with locals, out-of-towners, and even the occasional celebrity sighting. The vibe: What makes Bubby's special is how seamlessly it balances chaos and charm. Strollers are welcome, noisy tables don't earn side-eye and the whole atmosphere leans into the idea that brunch should feel like a celebration, not a stressful ordeal. From the smell of pancakes and biscuits drifting from the kitchen to the easy warmth of the staff, it's the rare NYC spot where everyone—from toddlers to tourists—can feel at home. The food: If comfort food had a capital, Bubby's would be it. Picture towering stacks of buttermilk pancakes, biscuits smothered in gravy, fried chicken that's both juicy and crunchy and perfectly poached eggs perched on crispy sourdough. Other longtime favorites round out the menu—matzo ball soup, gooey mac and cheese and, of course, the pies that started it all. Seasonal specials often highlight farm-driven ingredients, but the core menu consistently delivers the kind of hearty, satisfying plates that make brunch here feel timeless. The drink: Bubby's takes brunch beverages seriously. The mimosa flights are a highlight, offering bubbly

The vibe: Barking Dog opened its first location on the Upper East Side, quickly becoming a neighborhood fixture where locals and tourists alike could gather, with both their pups and kiddos in tow. Following its major success, a Hell’s Kitchen outpost opened its doors. Both locations lean casual and cheerful—think bright murals of dogs on the walls, sidewalk seating with water bowls for four-legged guests and a steady hum of chatter. It’s lively, a little chaotic—in the best way possible—and exactly the kind of environment where kids can feel at ease. The food: The menu covers brunch from every angle. Eggs do most of the heavy lifting here and can be enjoyed in many ways—think: scrambles, Benedicts, and fluffy omelets—while sandwiches and salads are great for those craving something lighter. That said, it's the pancakes and waffles that are the true stars of the show here. You'll often find them stacked high and customizable with fruit, berries, chocolate chips or even ice cream on top. Portions are generous, flavors are classic and there’s always something to keep both picky and adventurous eaters happy. The drink: Coffee flows endlessly to fuel parents through long mornings, although brunch staples like mimosas and Bloody Marys are also available. And while the drinks aren’t flashy, they do exactly what they’re meant to: keep things light and easy. Time Out tip: Grab a sidewalk table when the weather’s nice. On the Upper East Side, kids will love watching the constant parad

The vibe: Serendipity 3 has been a New York icon since the 1950s, and walking through its doors feels more like stepping into a fantasyland than a restaurant. The Upper East Side flagship is intimate and whimsical, filled with Tiffany-style lamps and mismatched décor that lend it a timeless, slightly eccentric charm, as if you’ve stumbled into a hidden parlor from another era. The newer Times Square location carries that same playful spirit but turns it up a notch—bigger, brighter, and buzzing with theater-district energy, it’s an ideal spot before or after a Broadway show. Despite their differences, both locations share one essential quality: they treat dessert not as an afterthought, but as the main event. The food: The menu here is best described as a mix between traditional diner comfort and a full-blown childhood daydream. Oversized burgers, mile-high sandwiches, and pasta bowls are hearty enough to stand on their own—and yes, there’s even a giant hot dog that feels straight out of a carnival fantasy. But let’s be honest—everyone comes for the sweets, mainly the legendary Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. Ideal for sharing, this Instagram-worthy, towering goblet comes piled high with whipped cream that kids and adults alike can enjoy. Sundaes arrive dripping with toppings, waffles come with a candy-store’s worth of add-ons, and the occasional extravagant creation pushes the limits of imagination. This is dessert as theater, and Serendipity has perfected the performance. The drink:

Patisserie in San Francisco's Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood is best known for its French-style pastries—and the long lines that start forming early in the day. Opened by pastry chef Belinda Leong and French baker Michel Suas, the shop has earned a coveted James Beard Award and a stellar reputation for its precise technique and consistently excellent baking. With its marble counters, gleaming pastry cases and chic but understated design, the bakery looks and feels as if it's been plucked straight from a Paris side street. The Kouign-amann, a buttery pastry from France's Brittany region known for its caramelized sugar crust and delicate, layered dough, is the signature item—shatteringly crisp on the outside, soft and tender inside—and widely considered one of the best in the country. It comes in several varieties, including the classic, a rotating seasonal flavor and a decadent chocolate version.  Croissants are equally mouthwatering—for a truly spectacular and unique treat, opt for the chocolate banana almond flavor—while the cookies, in flavors like chocolate oatmeal toffee and classic chocolate chip, are also worth adding to your order. The savory tartines, served open-faced on housemade bread with toppings like smoked salmon or roasted vegetables, make it easy to turn a pastry run into a full-on meal. Keep in mind that some specialties, like the chocolate chip banana bread, macarons and the classic French tart flan, are baked only on weekends—another reason regulars li

Fluff Bake Bar in Houston Heights—also known as "The Heights" to locals—is known for its creative, playful desserts that balance nostalgia with a modern twist. Pastry chef Rebecca Masson, dubbed the city's "Sugar Fairy,” has built a following for sweets that are as fun as they are indulgent. Think: Comfort classics with an upscale twist. The nostalgia-inducing Fluffernutter cookie is the runaway favorite, a sticky mash-up of oatmeal peanut butter cookies sandwiched with marshmallow and peanut butter cream. But it's far from the only reason to stop by. The Couch Potato Cookie mixes potato chips, pretzels and chocolate into a salty-sweet bite that folks just can't get enough of. There's also the Veruca Salt Cake, which layers devil's food cake with salt-flecked caramel buttercream and a pretzel crunch for texture, and the fan-favorite Unicorn Bait cookies, which are just as tasty as they are colorful. French macarons and seasonal specials round out the ever-rotating case. The bakery itself is casual and colorful, with a whimsical vibe that mirrors Masson's sense of playfulness and imagination. All in all, it’s the kind of spot where grabbing one cookie is almost impossible—you'll end up walking out with a box. The vibe: Playful, warm and welcoming, with colorful interiors. Southern hospitality is, of course, on full display here. The food: Creative desserts like the Couch Potato cookie, the Veruca Salt Cake, the Unicorn Bait cookies and, of course, the famous Fluffernutter cook

Be prepared to wait in line for cookies at Gideon's Bakehouse, where the hype is very real. With locations at East End Market and Disney Springs, this Orlando original has become a destination for its massive half-pound cookies (which take over 24 hours to prepare!) and theatrical-like atmosphere. What's more, owner Steve Lewis has crafted a bakery that feels as much like an immersive experience as a place to buy dessert, drawing sweet-tooths of all ages. Inside, the aesthetic is as distinct as the desserts: Dark wood, flickering chandeliers, walls lined with antique books and hand-drawn portraits of eccentric, almost storybook characters. This makes standing in line feel like you're waiting to enter a theme park attraction, rather than a standard bakery. The mood fits perfectly with the cookies themselves, which are oversized, dramatic and a little decadent. Each cookie is coated edge-to-edge in toppings, creating a crunchy shell around a gooey, brownie-like center. Popular flavors include Pistachio Toffee Chocolate and Banana Bread Chocolate Chip, alongside other equally over-the-top picks and rotating monthly specials that have become collector's items for regulars. With demand so high, purchases are limited to seven cookies per person, but considering each one weighs half a pound, it's still plenty to share—or not. The vibe: A gothic fantasy meets old-world curiosity shop: dim lighting, shelves of oddities, and whimsical portraits that make the bakery feel like it belongs

I used to think cruises were for other people. You know the type: retirees in Hawaiian shirts scrambling through tropical ports, sunburned dads lining up for the buffet and giddy crowds who willingly sign up for floating malls with water slides, Broadway shows and 5,000-plus strangers. As someone who usually plans vacations around boutique hotels and good wine, I didn’t just smirk at the thought of being on one—I cringed. Then, work handed me the chance to board a mega cruise ship. I brought a friend along as my co-conspirator, certain we'd spend the week trading ironic commentary about cheesy comedy acts and towel animals. We walked up the gangway with arched eyebrows. But we walked off a week later, fully converted. Somewhere between the late-night hot tub hangs, a spin on the full-size carousel tucked into the ship’s Boardwalk neighborhood (yes, there’s a whole section designed like a seaside amusement park), and my very first silent disco, I realized: I actually loved it. Mega ships are having a moment for a reason Part of why it landed so hard is timing. Mega-ships are booming right now, drawing in people who swore they'd never step aboard. The cruise industry is setting records, with more than 37 million passengers projected in 2025. Younger travelers are also helping to fuel the surge: The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports that 36 percent of cruisers are now under 40. And it makes sense: After years of over-planned, over-budget vacations, we're crav

While major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York, Boston and Miami all offer plenty of Fourth of July fun, they can get quite crowded. Instead, escape the throngs of travelers by embarking on a last-minute getaway somewhere nearby. Below, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite Independence Day weekend getaways within easy driving distance of the aforementioned U.S. cities. From an oceanfront SoCal retreat to a quaint Rhode Island town steeped in history, these last-minute July 4th vacation destinations truly offer something for everyone.  Traverse City, Michigan Situated along the coast of Lake Michigan just four hours from Detroit and five hours from Chicago, Traverse City goes all out for Independence Day, with free events like an elaborate fireworks show, which, in our opinion, is best enjoyed out on the water via this Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise. The Fourth of July also coincides with the city’s weeklong National Cherry Festival. Taking place from June 29 through July 6, this fun, fruity festival celebrates the region’s rich agricultural heritage, vibrant culture and natural beauty (fun fact: Traverse City produces nearly half of the tart cherries in the U.S.). As part of the fun, visitors can partake in events such as the National Cherry Festival Airshow; live musical performances, parades, races and family-friendly programming are available, too. Also, be sure to carve out an afternoon to stroll through the city’s bustling downtown area, which is lined with ecl

Memorial Day weekend may be less than a week away, but it’s not too late to plan a last-minute escape. Fortunately, you don’t need to venture too far from home to experience an epic weekend getaway to ring in the unofficial start of summer. Ahead, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite Memorial Day weekend getaways, each within easy driving distance of major U.S. cities such as Miami, New York and Los Angeles. From a laid-back SoCal beach town where surf and sand reign supreme to a tranquil lakefront retreat in northwest Idaho, keep reading for our favorite last-minute Memorial Day weekend vacation spots for a spontaneous sojourn.  Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Named for the lake on which it lies, Coeur d’Alene is just under five hours from Seattle. The vibrant downtown area—home to over 100 quaint shops, restaurants and local businesses—is within easy walking distance of the lake. Out on the water, travelers can go fishing, rafting, jet-skiing and water skiing; alternatively, stay on land to soak up the sunny weather or enjoy a scenic hike or bike ride at the lakefront City Park, the Canfield Mountain Natural Area or the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. Meanwhile, golfers can perfect their swing at the course at Coeur d’Alene Resort, where you'll find the one and only “Floating Green,” described by the property as “the first and only floating, movable island golf green” that “changes position via an intricate, underwater cable system. Where to stay: Open since 2021, One Lakeside Resort

What’s more tempting than a Thanksgiving feast? Skipping the festivities altogether. This Thanksgiving, why not bypass the stress of cooking an entire meal, hosting your family and all the other necessary bits to celebrate a holiday? Instead, enjoy a relaxing Turkey Day escape close to home. We’ve rounded up five incredible Thanksgiving getaways within easy driving distance of major U.S. cities, including Miami, New York and Los Angeles. You’ll find these spots are under a five-hour drive—or a quick flight if holiday road trips are not your thing. Plus, each place has a distinct charm, natural beauty, fantastic food and drink offerings and noteworthy attractions. West Palm Beach, FL Often overlooked in favor of its swankier cousin, Palm Beach, this hip city still feels like a hidden gem (for now, at least). Its arty downtown area is home to The Square, an arts and culture hub that’s also brimming with some of the destination’s best shops, bars and restaurants like Barrio, El Camino and the recently opened Galley, as well as outposts of famed NYC staples Harry’s and Felice. Every Saturday between November and May, the city hosts an antiques and flea market; the GreenMarket also takes place on Saturdays between October and April. To get here from Miami, hop on I-95 (75 minutes, depending on traffic) or ditch the car altogether and hop on the high-speed Brightline train (also 75 minutes).  Where to stay: The Ben, Autograph Collection is a trendy hotel just minutes from the heart