The 5 Most Charming Old-School Diners In The Appalachian Mountains
Old-school diners are a great way to enjoy a piece of history while having a delicious meal. Here five of our favorites in the Appalachian Mountains.
Read MoreLauren Kershner
Islands Editorial Policies
Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
Stories By Lauren Kershner
-
-
The Best Way To Explore London's Top Attractions Smoothly And Affordably With Only One Day
Exploring London in one day is easier with a bundled attraction pass that streamlines entry, transportation, and planning across the city's top sights.
Read More -
These American Destinations Are Packed With '70s Retro Vibes And Nostalgic Fun
You don't need a time machine to experience the '70s - just visit these famous American towns and cities for a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Read More -
Downtown Portland's Dining Scene Is Surging To Life In Anticipation Of A Dazzling New Market
In 2026, Oregon’s iconic city of Portland will open a long-awaited market, complete with delicious restaurants, artisan vendors, and foodie events.
Read More -
Seattle's 5 Hands-Down Best Speakeasies, According To Washington Locals
Seattle certainly has its fair share of bars, though some are harder to find than others. If you plan on hunting for speakeasies, make sure you find these five.
Read More -
5 Under-The-Radar Coffee Shops Hidden Around Los Angeles
LA features a huge number of coffee shops throughout its trendy neighborhoods. Among the many options, here are five of the best places to sip caffeine in LA.
Read More -
5 Places Portland Locals Hope Oregon Tourists Never Discover
Portland, Oregon, is full of places to visit during a vacation, but these five excellent spots are secrets some locals might wish remain off your radar.
Read More -
Chicago's 5 Best Things To Do During Your Layover
If you find yourself stuck at one of Chicago's airports for a significant amount of time, don't just wait it out. The magic of the Windy City awaits.
Read More -
California's 5 Most Overrated Attractions In San Francisco, Per Locals
Don't let the Bay Area's tourist traps suck you in during your next visit to its star city. Instead, follow this guide to learn which spots are worth skipping.
Read More -
5 Christmas Towns In Florida That Have Major Hallmark Movie Vibes
Expect glowing palm trees, boat parades, trolley tours, and Victorian streetscapes in these warm-weather holiday destinations across the Sunshine State.
Read More -
San Francisco's Underrated Neighborhood Has Artsy Vibes And Delicious Cuisine
This unexpected neighborhood in the heart of "The City by the Bay" is a quirky haven with unique architecture, lush parks, miles of trails, and fun events.
Read More -
Oregon's 'Rare Oceanfront' Lodge Brims With Chic Rustic Charm And Majestic Views
On the Oregon Coast, you'll discover a rare ocean‑front retreat where mid‑century style meets rustic charm, complete with sweeping sea views and amenities.
Read More -
San Francisco's Scenic Urban Hike Has Hidden Stairs, Hilltop Views, And Coffee Stops
Discover unparalleled viewpoints, hidden gem parks, foodie hot spots, and more on this inner-city tromp through the winding streets of San Francisco.
Read More -
A St. Louis Suburb Has The Best Donut Shop In America In Its Walkable Old Town
Just north of St. Louis lies a charming suburb where you'll find a 24‑hour bakery that recently won a national competition for the best donuts in America.
Read More -
America's Most-Visited City During Thanksgiving Is An Iconic Vacation Destination
This legendary American metropolis is one of the best places to spend Thanksgiving, with plenty of restaurant options for classic dishes and fall foliage.
Read More -
This Iconic Yet Affordable Beach Town On The East Coast Is America's Favorite Getaway For 2025
In a study of the most searched-for beach destinations in each state, this East Coast city with its famous boardwalk and 60 miles of beaches came out on top.
Read More -
A Dueling Piano Bar With Climbing Goats Is A Beale Street Staple Where Every Day Is St. Patrick's Day
Tower-climbing goats? Nightly live music? Delicious BBQ? All of this and more you'll find at this Beale Street Irish bar in Memphis, Tennessee, open since 1973.
Read More -
San Francisco's Infamous Former Penitentiary Is An Island-Bound National Park Filled With History And Mystery
A short ferry ride from San Francisco brings you to the shores of this infamous island where you can dive into American history, lush gardens, and an old prison.
Read More -
Top 5 Scenic Midwest Train Rides With Unforgettable Views, According To Reddit
Reddit travelers highlight the Midwest's most scenic train journeys, filled with national park backdrops, historic routes, and endless photo-worthy views.
Read More -
Samantha Brown Calls This Oregon Wine Region An Underrated Destination For Fall Color
Discover breweries, cideries, and vineyards in this unassuming valley in the middle of Oregon that highlights jaw-dropping autumn leaves come October.
Read More -
Skip Napa Valley And Visit These Underrated California Wine Regions That Are Seriously Less Crowded
These two wine regions in California offer scenic vineyards, luxury accommodations, and sip-worthy wine tastings with fewer crowds and expenses than Napa Valley.
Read More -
A Rock 'N' Roll Memorial In Iowa Is A Famed Roadside Attraction For Fans To Pay Tribute To Legends
A moving roadside memorial in Iowa honors the rock 'n' roll legends lost in a plane crash, inviting fans to pay tribute and remember the day the music died.
Read More -
Texas' Top 5 Best Stops Sandwiched Between Austin And Houston
From prehistoric fun at Dinosaur Park to sweet stops at Blue Bell Creameries, the drive between Austin and Houston is packed with Texas charm.
Read More -
California's 'Victorian Village' Is An Enchanting Main Street With Coastal Hikes, Inns, And Painted Shops
Just off California’s northern coast, a charming Victorian village offers historic streets lined with painted shops, cozy inns, and scenic coastal trails.
Read More -
Rick Steves Warns Tourists To Avoid One Dangerous Assumption About Pickpockets In Europe
If you're planning a trip to Europe, you've likely heard about the pickpockets. However, you can dodge thieves by avoiding this one assumption.
Read More -
Just Outside New York City Is America's Longest Haunted House With 10 Hair-Raising Attractions
This record-breaking haunted attraction features terrifying themed houses packed with scares, creepy characters, and an unforgettable Halloween experience.
Read More -
Sandwiched Between Eugene And Bend Is A Hidden Oregon Community Built Around Hot Springs And Outdoor Fun
From riverside pools to forested trails and volcanic vistas, this under-the-radar Oregon retreat offers the perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor fun.
Read More
