“Where to next?” Three little words can hold such big possibilities. Studies show that simply planning or anticipating a trip can actually make you happier because there’s joy in finding new vacation destinations and deciding what to do when you arrive.

Here are four must-see cities to inspire your next getaway with Hilton Grand Vacations.

1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee 

Why Go: Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers the ideal blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty and classic attractions. Every season brings a new surprise — from whitewater rafting and horseback riding in the summer to skiing and snow tubing in the winter.

What To Do: 

• Gatlinburg is your gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Slow things down as you hike the numerous trails, see wildlife in action on scenic drives and take in the beauty of the old-growth forests.
• Buckle up for a ride on the Moonshine Mountain Coaster. This family-friendly coaster features single- and double-car carts. Wind through the woods as you coast down the mountain.
• Experience Ober Gatlinburg. It’s a year-round playground that’s part amusement park, part seasonal ski zone. Enjoy everything from snow tubing and ice skating to shopping and alpine sliding. Check out Wildlife Encounter where you can safely view bears, bobcats, owls and otters.

Where To Stay: Bent Creek Golf Village, a Hilton Vacation Club provides everything you need for a relaxing mountain retreat. You can stretch out and stay cozy in a spacious 1- or 2-Bedroom Suite with fully equipped kitchens and well-appointed amenities.

2. South Lake Tahoe, California 

Why Go: South Lake Tahoe is a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and a top choice for all-season adventurers. This California resort town puts you in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and surrounds you with stunning alpine views. It also keeps you close to Reno, in case you want to roll the dice at a nearby casino.

What To Do: 

• Find your happy place on Heavenly Mountain. In the winter, this is your go-to spot for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, you’ll find seasonal activities such as the gravity-powered Ridge Rider Mountain Coaster and Heavenly’s Epic Discovery — an all-ages playground with ziplines and a granite-peak climbing wall. 
•  Make your way to beautiful beaches. Take frame-worthy photos at Emerald Bay State Park, access the Lake Tahoe Water Trail at El Dorado Beach or bring your furry friends for a day of fun at Regan Beach — the area’s only dog-friendly water spot.
• Blaze a new trail. You’ll find several hiking trails near South Lake Tahoe. One of the most scenic is the Rubicon Trail, which connects two of the most beautiful state parks in California, D.L. Bliss and Emerald Bay.

Where To Stay: Tahoe Seasons, a Hilton Vacation Club is a mountaintop retreat located just 150 yards from access to Heavenly Mountain’s famous Gunbarrel ski run. After a day of outdoor adventures, you can kick back in the comfort of 1- and 2-Bedroom Suites.

3. Honolulu, Hawaii 

Why Go: Honolulu is a vibrant vacation destination with picture-perfect landscapes, sun-kissed beaches and modern attractions. It’s also the state capital of Hawaii and welcomes you to the Hawaiian Islands.

What To Do: 

• Experience beachside bliss on Waikiki Beach. Ride the waves, find a snorkeling spot or simply spend your day relaxing on the golden sands.
• Visit iconic sites — from the historic Iolani Palace to the stirring World War II memorials at Pearl Harbor.
• Browse high-end retailers or shop for locally made products and souvenirs at the Ala Moana Center.
• Celebrate Hawaii’s colorful heritage and culture with live music and dancing at Waikiki’s Starlight Luau.
• Find stunning coastal views as you hike Diamond Head, one of Honolulu’s major natural landmarks.

Where To Stay: The Modern, a Hilton Vacation Club lets you unwind in well-appointed Studios, 1-Bedroom and Penthouse Suites that feature custom furnishings, teak window screens and terrazzo countertops. You’ll also enjoy resort-style amenities, including an on-site restaurant with open-air dining and marina views.

4. Zihuatanejo, Mexico 

Why Go: This laid-back fishing village on the Pacific coast feels relatively undiscovered, especially compared to the tourist-packed beaches of Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. Zihuatanejo’s unhurried pace allows you to truly relax and unwind as you embrace its authentic charm and off-the-beaten-track vibe.

What To Do: 

• Spend the day at La Ropa Beach. Famous for its colorful coral life and turquoise water, consider planning a kayak adventure or snorkeling experience.
• Find your inner angler with a sport-fishing excursion. Charter a boat and head out to cast a line for marlin, sailfish, tuna and more.
• Take a water taxi to nearby Isla Ixtapa, where you’ll find an island paradise with pristine beaches, clear waters and numerous hiking trails. You can also feast on fresh seafood at the many thatch-covered, open-air restaurants that dot the island.
• Stroll along the popular Paseo del Pescador (Fisherman's Walk). This seaside promenade hugs the shoreline of downtown Zihuatanejo and is lined with shops, outdoor restaurants and beautiful cobblestone streets.

Where To Stay: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Zihuatanejo invites you to enjoy comfortable Studios and spacious 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Suites that feature charming terraces — some with private plunge pools. The oceanfront infinity pool and unique dining experiences also allow you to experience this tropical destination in style.

There’s always more to explore with Hilton Grand Vacations. Our growing list of must-visit destinations is a top benefit of timeshare. Explore our resorts and start building your bucket list with us today.