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.
-
Utah's Arches National Park is full of picturesque spots, and the best way to see them all is on this road. Follow our itinerary so you don't miss a thing.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Destinations
By Grae Gleason
In California's mountains, discover a quiet town bursting with outdoor fun. Swim in the local lake, go on an inspiring hike, and sleep under the stars.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
This West Virginia mountain town is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature, soak up local history, and book a cozy cabin in the woods.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Destinations
By Grae Gleason
In the mountains of North Carolina, discover a charming Europe-inspired town filled with picturesque trails, overlooks, and plenty of other outdoor spots.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Pub culture dominates in the U.K., even in remote locations. Make the long trek to Britain's most isolated pub for an especially satisfying pint.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
This unique café in Georgia offers delicious pastries, coffee, and antique treasures that will charm travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Destinations
By Grae Gleason
New Hampshire's White Mountains offer gorgeous sights and a wonderful small town with plenty of shopping and outdoor activities to check out.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Grae Gleason
For an authentic cabin-in-the-woods experience, stay in this historical lodge in the Smoky Mountains, situated a whopping 6,400 feet above sea level.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Away from the coast, you'll find a spacious Florida state park filled with bison, rare birds, alligators, and other wildlife along its many hiking trails.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
Destinations
By Grae Gleason
Take a trip to Texas Hill Country and spend some time in this relaxed and charming spot offering fun festivals, natural beauty, and a thriving town square.
By Grae Gleason
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More
-
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
Read More