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.

national parks in November - Theodore Roosevelt National Park was established in November

Happy Birthday to These Stunning National Parks: November Edition

by Scott McConkey

Discover which national parks have a November birthday and why you should visit.

A woman makes a face due to the smell of sulfur in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone’s Rotten Egg Smell: What It Is and Why It Matters

by Scott McConkey

Yellowstone’s smell is unforgettable. Here’s what causes it, plus tips for visitors curious about the sulfur scent.

white and black cruise ship on body of water near mountain during daytime

Why an Alaska Cruise in 2026 Could Be Your Most Scenic Escape Yet

by Scott McConkey

With Caribbean cruises dominating the spotlight, Alaska offers a quieter, more scenic alternative. Here’s why a 2026 Alaska cruise might be your perfect escape.

A woman walks under giant sequoias in Sequoia National Park, California

Beyond Wildlife: The Must-See Flora of America’s National Parks

by Scott McConkey

From towering redwoods to desert blooms, these must-see plants in national parks offer unforgettable beauty, ecological wonder, and a fresh reason to explore beyond the trail.

Best Coffee Cities in America: WalletHub Rankings vs My Favorite Café Finds

by Scott McConkey

A new WalletHub study ranks the top U.S. cities for coffee lovers. Here’s how the data stacks up against my own caffeinated travels—and why some cities surprised me.

A woman walks toward an antler arch at the doorway into Jackson Hole Airport, WY.

10 Small Airports That Make Travel Easier—And What’s Nearby

by Scott McConkey

Discover the top small airports in the US for low-stress travel, with driving distances to nearby attractions like Yosemite, Myrtle Beach, and Cape Cod. A practical guide for families, outdoor lovers, and holiday planners.

Apples and two glasses of cider sit on a wooden table, representing that cideries are fun places to visit in the fall season.

Best Cideries to Visit in Fall: USA Today Picks and Personal Favorites

by Scott McConkey

Fall is peak season for cider tasting and scenic escapes. We highlight USA Today’s top cideries and share two personal favorites that blend bold flavors, cozy atmospheres, and unforgettable fall vibes.

Visitors walk through Yellowstone’s geothermal basin during the 2025 government shutdown, highlighting the park’s resilience and continued accessibility.

What We Found Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton During the 2025 Government Shutdown

by Scott McConkey

During the 2025 government shutdown, we explored Yellowstone and Grand Teton expecting disruption. Instead, we found resilience, steady crowds, and a system under strain but still functioning.

Trees with fall foliage highlight Boston Common on the Freedom Trail in October

Why October Is the Best Time to Walk Boston’s Freedom Trail

by Scott McConkey

Cooler temps, fall foliage, and fewer crowds make October the perfect time to explore Boston’s Freedom Trail. Here’s how to plan a memorable walk.

Luggage, winter travel gear, and snow sit on top of a car

Winter Travel Trends 2025: What Most Americans Are Doing Differently This Year

by Scott McConkey

Planning a winter getaway? You’re not alone — but inflation, debt, and a weaker dollar are reshaping how Americans travel. WalletHub’s latest survey reveals what’s changing, what’s holding people back, and how some are getting creative to make it work.