A dynamic island escape, Penang, Malaysia, is chock-full of exciting attractions, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture. Head to the George Town neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the island's best colonial architecture and historical landmarks, including the Penang Town Hall, Fort Cornwallis, and Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower.

Lead’s Main Street reflects its long history with places that invite people to explore local life beyond mining. The Black Hills Mining Museum offers displays of mining tools, machinery and a simulated underground mine experience that brings to life how miners worked the Black Hills over generations. Along the same street, galleries, cafés and historic buildings make for pleasant stops between deeper dives into the past.

Rarotonga, the vibrant heart of the Cook Islands, offers visitors a chance to experience island life with striking scenery and rich tradition. This volcanic island is only 32 kilometers around, making it easy to explore by scooter or bicycle in a single day. From the lush mountains of the interior to the lagoon that wraps around the coast, Rarotonga feels intimate but never short on discovery.

Brighton, a vibrant seaside city on England's southern coast, has long been a favorite getaway for those seeking a mix of culture, history, and the sea. Its most famous landmark, the Royal Pavilion, is an architectural wonder with its exotic, Indian-inspired domes and minarets. Originally built for King George IV as a lavish seaside retreat, the palace today offers visitors a glimpse into royal opulence with its richly decorated interiors and sprawling gardens.

Lincoln, Nebraska, blends college-town spirit with prairie roots, offering a travel experience that’s both laid-back and surprising. As the state capital, Lincoln is home to the stunning Nebraska State Capitol building, an architectural landmark with a 400-foot tower topped by a bronze sower casting seeds over the land. Visitors can tour the building and ride to the 14th floor observation deck for sweeping views of the city and surrounding plains.