With a long history dating back to before the American Revolution, it's not a surprise that Carlisle is full of historic treasures, including a church once attended by George Washington and a courthouse damaged by artillery during the Civil War. Despite this impressive heritage, the city is most famous for being Pennsylvania's "automotive capital," hosting ten annual car, truck, and motorcycle shows that are attended by a half a million people each year.

Nestled in the fertile Susquehanna Valley, Harrisburg has played a pivotal role in the shaping of American history, both as a major link in rail and water transportation and as the setting of major Civil War battles. Having bounced back from economic distress in the 1980s, the city is now a vibrant hub of family activities, from cruises along the Susquehanna to arcades and athletics on City Island. The annual Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agriculture exposition in the U.S.

From the National Mall’s monuments and memorials to vibrant neighbourhoods filled with character and charm, DC is a world-class destination featuring breathtaking views, award-winning hotels and hundreds of free things to do. Experience outstanding performing arts at acclaimed theatres, shop in historic Georgetown, hear great live music at legendary venues, enjoy sporting entertainment from six professional franchises and be dazzled by a flourishing dining scene with Michelin-starred restaurants.

The former home of three of America's founding fathers, and the current home of the University of Virginia, the city of Charlottesville, Virginia is suffused with an appreciation of history and intellectual vigor. Take a tour of the university campus and walk through grassy malls and grand buildings designed by Thomas Jefferson, or peak into the dorm room once occupied by Edgar Allen Poe. The great homes of America's early presidents, Monroe, Jefferson and Madison, are also open to the public.

Want a holiday full of thrills, adventure, fun and romance? Greater Williamsburg has just the thing — from the wild rides at Busch Gardens to the incredible living history museum at Colonial Williamsburg. Travellers can also set sail on the York River, and hike or bike their way through the area’s many trails. For quieter times, Riverwalk Landing offers no shortage of opportunities to indulge in culinary delights and premium shopping.

The legacy of Buddy Holly lives on in his birthplace of Lubbock, where a museum, a walk of fame and an annual music festival honor musicians hailing from the area. Its museums shed light on the agricultural and military history of the region. Lubbock's many parks, golf courses and wineries provide a relaxing break from it all. Add to all of this a hopping nightlife and Lubbock truly is the "Hub City" of activity in the South Plains area.

Halfway between San Francisco and L.A., San Luis Obispo can be a relaxing getaway or a buzz of activity. For serenity, pack a lunch and head to one of dozens of wineries or take a drive to the beach for a leisurely swim. For a dose of history, visit the heart of the city at the beautiful Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Kids will love the Children’s Museum or Skate Park. Be sure to stroll along the creek downtown, where there are breweries, wine bars, restaurants and shopping for all tastes.

Norwich boasts museums spanning a ten centuries of history as well as a renovated city center with a pleasant pedestrian area lined with modern businesses and thriving nightlife. With two colleges, both with renowned art and writing programs, travelers will also step into a vibrant cultural scene. Tourist sites, dubbed the Norwich 12, include the historical Norwich Castle, Norwich Cathedral and City Hall, as well as the newer library and the glass Forum which hosts events from opera to skating.

Liguria, or the Italian Riviera, boasts a bounty of beaches and resort towns, such as tiny Portofino and stylish Rapallo. Hiking trails lead from Portofino to the villages of Cinque Terre. The Riviera of the Setting Sun runs north from Genoa to the French border. Connected by an extensive rail network, most towns are an easy day trip from one another. Genoa is the region's principal city and is home to the famous Cathedral, the Palazzo Reale and an excellent aquarium.