School
Syracuse University
Expertise
Adventure Travel, The Great Outdoors, City Exploration
- After five years of writing about travel, nature, and sustainability, Grae moved from California to West Virginia to reconnect with the great outdoors.
- A 2017 trip to London taught Grae about two of the best places to explore in a new city: bookstores and speakeasies.
- Grae's travels have taken them from cafés in New Orleans to helicopter rides over Redding, California. They're always ready for a new adventure.
Experience
Grae Gleason is a lifelong writer who grew up in Georgia, attended university in New York, and began a writing career in California. These experiences exploring different corners of the United States inspired Grae's work covering nature and outdoor adventure travel for outlets like Inhabitat and USA Today. After serving as the Managing Editor for USA Today's Outdoor Content Initiative, Grae embraced their passion for travel by pursuing full-time freelance travel writing.
Education
At Syracuse University, Grae earned a Bachelor of Science degree in communication and rhetorical studies through the College of Visual and Performing Arts.
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.
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
This Tennessee town is home to a thriving Main Street district, with a variety of historical sites, delicious local eateries, top-notch shops, and fun events.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Near the West Virginia-Maryland border, you'll find this small town filled with historical landmarks, a thriving arts scene, fun events, and stunning scenery.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
If you're looking for an artsy destination with an eclectic downtown, look no further than Montclair, New Jersey, a college town with a stunning art scene.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
This New Hampshire destination offers big-city amenities with small-town charm. Immerse yourself in nature and American history in this East Coast spot.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
A trip to Philadelphia isn't complete without a stop in this charming neighborhood. Visit for cobblestone scenery, history, and a variety of delicious eats.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
You don't have to leave the Midwest to have an island vacation. Head to this Ohio island for outdoor fun, breathtaking views, and delicious food.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Can't choose between the great outdoors and a thriving coffee scene for your next trip? Get both in this Colorado town, located just outside of Boulder.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Escape to this relaxing Arkansas town, known for its cabin accommodations, natural scenery, unique local shops, and selection of delicious eateries.
By Grae Gleason
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This Virginia town may be small, but it's bursting with character and outdoor adventures. Plan your trip if you're into hiking, art, and breweries.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
This underrated beach town in South Carolina is a peaceful escape on the coast that offers a relaxed island atmosphere without crowds.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
Skip the party-centric Jersey Shore destinations and head to this underrated town for family-friendly beaches, surf spots, and delicious local grub.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Ohio is full of underrated cities, including this affordable gem. Visit this Ohio destination for incredible museums, outdoor adventures, and more.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Italy's tallest waterfall is a sight to behold - but you can only see it a few times a year. Here's how to plan your trip so you don't miss this amazing sight.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
Take a break from exploring Zion National Park in this charming small town. Mingle with local artists, refuel between hikes, and browse the unique shops.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
Whether you spend your day relaxing at the spa or going for a dip in the local lake, a trip to this Wisconsin town feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
Art and adventure aren't only found in the big cities. Head to this Kentucky college town for galleries, public art displays, and underrated nature trails.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
This small town in Maryland isn’t short on unique activities and delicious eateries. Visitors will love this charming city’s diners and boutiques.
By Grae Gleason
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Hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding are all on the menu at this great Illinois State Park. Here's what you can do and the best time to visit.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
Peep at autumn leaves and hike in the Smoky Mountains at this laidback gateway town in Tennessee, a cozy, uncrowded spot home to under 1,000 people.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
This hidden gem in Japan is home to stunning natural wonders that will excite both ambitious adventurers and travelers seeking a relaxing paradise.
By Grae Gleason
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This national forest in North Carolina, known as the "Yosemite of the East," has something for everyone; hikers, fishers, campers, and sightseers alike.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
Travel to Canada's Gulf Islands for a beautiful North American island paradise getaway with chic markets and boutique shops and miles of gorgeous beaches.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
To connect with nature and your loved one, consider staying in this Norwegian hotel that has treehouse accommodations in the forest.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
It's not easy to access, but this hidden California beach is an ocean lover's paradise, with massive cliffs framing a gorgeous, secluded seashore.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
The home of the University of Georgia is more than just a college town, thanks to its deep roots in music history and family-friendly attractions.
By Grae Gleason
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Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
If you want to lounge on gorgeous, empty beaches or adventure through tropical rainforests, head to these secluded islands in the South Pacific.
By Grae Gleason
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Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Scotland's Isle of Arran is a picturesque destination with mountains, caves, and waterfalls. Its majestic natural beauty will refresh any visitor's spirit.
By Grae Gleason
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