School
University of Colorado at Boulder
Expertise
Budget travel, Road trips, Western USA travel
- Kelley was a part of the inaugural travel writing team at Wealth of Geeks.
- Her favorite travel articles so far have allowed her to share her knowledge on the sights of San Diego, "America's Finest City," and surrounding areas.
- She has traveled extensively around the United States and aims to visit all 50 states within the next three years.
Experience
Kelley has more than 20 years of writing and editing experience. She served as both assistant and associate editor at Mortgage Originator magazine, a former trade magazine servicing the mortgage brokerage industry. She's also written about dog-friendly travel for Examiner.com and her alumni publication, The Coloradan. For the last three years, she has been a full-time nomad living as a house sitter and can provide knowledge on budget travel and road trips. She is also an event planner and scenic photographer, working on a memoir and a series of personal essays.
Education
Kelley has a bachelor's degree in news-editorial journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder.
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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California
By Kelley Dukat
This national seashore in California offers visitors a wide array of beaches, cliffs, lagoons, and wildlife reserves to choose from. Here's how you can explore.
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There are countless natural wonders to see in Arizona, and if you want something a little off the beaten path, Apache Lake is the perfect destination for you.
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An entire community came together to create a collective colorful work of art at this unusual Oregon beach. Stop by for the photo op and add to the display.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
For Urban explorers and outdoor adventurers, this city that played a role in the history of the Hollywood movie industry offers the best of both worlds.
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Travelers looking to experience Colorado hot springs and beautiful Rocky Mountain hikes should visit this small town with a slower pace of life.
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For a laid-back vacation that combines enjoying a nice hike with incredible food and some U.S. history, this small Virginia town has you covered.
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Friendliness might not always be the first thing that you look for when choosing a travel destination, but maybe it should be. Here's Nevada's friendliest spot.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
Step back in time with a visit to this living ghost town off of Highway 395 boasting buildings straight from the Wild West and tantalizing phosphate sodas.
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While Trillium Lake and Lost Lake offer spectacular views and hiking trails, there's another Oregon location that has all of that, plus fewer fellow visitors.
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This coastal city in Oregon takes pride in its fishing village atmosphere with plenty of boating, fresh seafood, and the state's longest pier.
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This incredible Oregon byway is known as the 'Highway of Waterfalls' for its breath-taking natural landscapes, cascading falls, and riverside hikes.
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Washington
By Kelley Dukat
One Washington state park boasts loads of camping, hiking, and swimming, with rich historic landmarks to take in along the way -- here's how to visit.
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The "Heart of the Rogue Valley" in southern Oregon is full of sunshine and plenty of wineries, not to mention more art and history than you could ever want.
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Cruise along a stunning road with plenty of incredible stops and views of the Potomac River. This parkway is a gem you need to experience at least once.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
Lose yourself in the luxuries of this chic Southern Californian resort, which boasts stunning ocean views, high-class dining, and lavish amenities.
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This quiet, little town on the Oregon Coast is well situated for whale watching and also has a wonderful beach and plenty of quirky shops to buy souvenirs.
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Arts and Culture
By Kelley Dukat
One of California's most iconic cities is home to a "Funk Zone" that features incredible food, amazing art, and an environmentally friendly beachfront area.
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Dive into the fascinating history of country music in the state where it all began. This Virginia attraction invites you to immerse yourself in the genre.
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It's probably a good thing that Jurassic Park isn't real, but you can see some life-sized dinosaur (models) at this one-of-a-kind destination.
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Whether you love the charm of the Southwest, are intrigued by Americana pop culture, or want to learn more about Route 66, this Arizona city has it all.
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If you are looking for a vacation destination that feels like Tuscany without the long-haul flight, head to this hidden away but luxurious California resort.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
For the ultimate excitement during a California road trip, daring travelers will want to stop at this state park where the desert becomes an exhilarating road.
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Once part of the Oregon Trail, this scenic wilderness area and lake offers visitors incredible year-round camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
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Arizona’s gorgeous landscape is home to the world’s largest natural travertine bridge, which you can explore on various trails throughout the state park.
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A mountainous community in Arizona promises visitors a gorgeous state park, good restaurants, and beautiful hiking trails around forests and mountains.
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United States
By Kelley Dukat
If you love train travel, you're in luck: The longest train ride in the U.S. delivers an amazing days-long ride from the West Coast to Chicago.
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California
By Kelley Dukat
Visitors to California typically want beautiful beaches and breathtaking national parks, but this special town also offers unique history and fun shopping.
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