Islands

Looking at the southern coast of Ireland on a map, it's impossible to miss Cork Harbor. It's one of the biggest natural harbors on the planet, with different branches and islands up the estuary to the city of Cork. South of the city, Carrigaline in County Cork is a community built around the Owenabue River, a tributary that ends near the mouth of the harbor. The town's name is derived from a rocky limestone bluff, Carraig Uí Leighin, which means the rock of O'Leighin.

The '70s were the beginning of the golden era of the American Mall, and a great example awaits at the Woodbridge Center in Woodbridge, New Jersey. With interesting shops, a lack of recent renovations and a noticeable absence of bright, modern brands taking up storefronts, walking through this mall gives off a sense of nostalgia. The mall is about a 20-minute drive from Newark Liberty International Airport, making it perfect as a stop on a larger trip to New York or New Jersey.

Fun fact: Randolph is the only county in Arkansas that has five navigable rivers coursing within its bounds — the Black, Current, Eleven Point, Fourche, and Spring rivers. The city of Pocahontas straddles the banks of the Black River in the northeast corner of the state. The waterway is largely to thank for why the community came to be, since Pocahontas began as a ferry stop and trading post back in the 1820s.

Springfield may be best known for its Lincoln history and state government, but Illinois' capital also has an extensive collection of parks where visitors can get outside without venturing too far from downtown. Within and around Springfield, green spaces range from sprawling lakes and wooded nature preserves to neighborhood parks with playgrounds, paved paths, and open lawns.

If you're a "Peaky Blinders" fan, then you're likely familiar with the city of Birmingham, England. But did you know that a neighboring town played a starring role in the series? The place in question is Dudley. Dudley is located in the West Midlands and is only around 30 minutes from Birmingham, the second largest city in the United Kingdom. Dudley charms with its historic attractions that bridge the past and the present.

Killsnake River, Cedar Creek, and the South Branch of the Manitowoc River all wind through Killsnake State Wildlife Area in east-central Wisconsin. Tucked between Green Bay and Milwaukee, the 7,000-acre nature preserve is a blend of restored wetlands, marshes, prairies, and hardwood forests. When you visit, you might spot locals paddling on the Manitowoc River, or birders watching raptors hunt over the meadows in the winter.

Until recently, your options for a pint could be rather limited. You had picks from throwback brands like Guinness, Bud, Pabst, Rolling Rock, and other beers that your dad probably drank in front of the TV. But we're lucky enough that, these days, there are so many craft breweries in America — more than 9,500 by count in 2025 — that true hop heads can visit for some of their favorite brews.

If you're looking for destination inspiration for somewhere that inspires happy feelings, perhaps take some advice from the man behind some beloved feel-good films. Michael J. Fox has a solid idea of what a happy place looks like to him. When asked by Vanity Fair when and where he was happiest, Fox's answer painted a picture of a beach day in Martha's Vineyard, the dune-and-clam-shack-dotted island off of Massachusetts' coast.

Ever since its establishment in 1872, Yellowstone National Park has been a defining representation of the American West and one of the nation's most beloved outdoor destinations. Today, the mighty peaks, vast forests, and geothermal features of Yellowstone are less daunting than they once were, thanks to the national park's visitor-friendly infrastructure, accessible features, and modern lodging options.

South Carolina is a popular state in which to retire thanks to its tax-friendly benefits and affordability, but there are plenty of underrated states on the east coast to also consider. Virginia, for example, is a great option for seniors who value peace and a slower pace of living, especially along the coast. While there are tons of appealing places across the state, Lancaster County is a great choice for retirees who prefer small-town living, stunning water views, and an escape from city life.