Scott McConkey

Scott McConkey is a nationally syndicated travel writer and the founder of Miles with McConkey, where he provides vacationers and travel enthusiasts with trip ideas, travel guides, and inspiration. His travel articles have been seen in The Associated Press wire, ABC, CBS, CW, FOX, NBC, MSN, and many more. He and his wife, Julie, left the corporate world after nearly 30 years for a life of travel and adventure. What started as a gap year has evolved into a second act. She creates visual content while he utilizes the written word. Their goal is to create content inspiring others to travel more and live their best lives now.

People looking at a solar eclipse

When the Sky Went Dark: A Look Back at the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse (and Our Front-Row Seat)

by Scott McConkey

2024 brought us a backyard light show like no other—meteor shower, northern lights, and the total solar eclipse. We didn’t chase the cosmos. It came to us.

A woman looks through binoculars on a boardwalk trail in a forest - birding in a national park

Best National Parks for Birding: Our Top Picks and Unforgettable Moments

by Scott McConkey

From warblers in the Smokies to pelicans in the Channel Islands, these national parks offer unforgettable birding experiences. Discover where to go, what to bring, and when to visit for peak sightings.

A sandy snowman represents Christmas in July travel - some locations celebrate the popular holiday in summer for a fun twist.

Where Santa Wears Flip-Flops: 8 Places That Celebrate Christmas in July

by Scott McConkey

From beachside Santas to snowball fights in summer, these destinations prove you don’t have to wait until December to feel the magic of Christmas.

Carved watermelons or jack-o-melons are a tradition for celebrating Summerween - Halloween in summer

Summerween Is Real: Where to Celebrate Halloween in the Heat of Summer

by Scott McConkey

Inspired by Gravity Falls and Halloween nostalgia, Summerween is gaining traction across the U.S. Here’s where to find real events—and how to plan a spooky summer getaway.

Green trees line the shores of a white sand beach with turquoise waters

Celebrate Our National Parks With a Birthday in July or August

by Scott McConkey

We shine the spotlight on the 5 U.S. national parks with a birthday in July or August. Which parks are we celebrating and why should you visit?

A moose walks through a filed with mountains in the background, Denali National Park, AK.

Where to See Moose and Bison in U.S. National Parks (and Beyond): A Wildlife Lover’s Guide

by Scott McConkey

From elusive moose in Denali to bison jams in South Dakota, here’s where to find North America’s most iconic wildlife—and why the search is half the fun.

A man pretends to press down on Stonehenge - are these photo ops a pro or con of visiting Stonehenge?

Stonehenge in Real Life: Worth the Hype or Just a Giant Circle of Rocks?

by Scott McConkey

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks—but is it worth the trip? Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons of visiting this ancient site.

Fizzling sparkler held in front of a faded American flag, symbolizing underwhelming Fourth of July celebrations.

Oops, No Fireworks Here: Worst Cities for 4th of July Celebrations

by Scott McConkey

WalletHub’s latest study reveals the worst U.S. cities for 4th of July celebrations. From high prices to low party vibes, here’s where the spark fizzles.

Fireworks light up the sky above the Brooklyn Bridge in NYC, one of the best U.S. cities for 4th of July

Red, White & Woo-Hoo: Best Cities to Celebrate the 4th

by Scott McConkey

WalletHub’s latest study ranks the best U.S. cities for 4th of July celebrations based on cost, fun, and safety. From fireworks to franks, here’s where to go—and how to save.

A woman peers up at a giant sequoia in General Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park

Easy Hikes in Kings Canyon National Park: 7 Scenic Trails for Every Nature Lover

by Scott McConkey

Explore the best easy hikes in Kings Canyon National Park — from short waterfall walks to peaceful meadow trails. These scenic paths show off the park’s natural beauty without the strain.