We travel in the US a fair bit since the kids left home, and more since Mr. Maryn is no longer working. I fret about what it costs, and he tells me we can afford it. We drive everywhere we can, since flying is expensive and sucks.
I agree with Niagara Falls--everybody should see it once. If you're a Groupon member, there are frequent hotel discounts there. I like the Canadian side. Got a passport?
On scenic wonders: You can't take a bad picture at the Grand Canyon (nor at most of the national parks in Utah), and once you've see the big attraction, there are usually pleasant places to hike or picnic. (Skip Meteor Crater, though Total rip-off trying to pass as a national park when it's not.)
Just duck in to see the canyon, though, not to tour the state. I'm mad at the state of Arizona and refuse to send anybody and their tourist dollars to help them foster a culture of hate and mistrust of those who are non-white. I grew up there and refuse to go back.
So please, enjoy New Mexico. Treat yourself to a winter visit, since half the state has hot summers. Plan to see at least some Indian culture--and buy some Indian-made wares. They've got nice stuff, some inexpensive, and you'll be helping some of the poorest people in the country.
For longer stays, I prefer forests or beaches where you can completely decompress. We hike the Adirondacks sometimes, and there's a zillion lakes and cabins you can rent. (And no cell phone signal!) We also like the Great Lakes and Cape Cod. My preference is to rent a house, cabin, or cottage rather than a hotel room, for a week or a long weekend, ideally within walking distance to what there is to do. We bring books and DVDs, and they usually have more DVDs, board games and such. Cooking at home saves you a bundle, too. (Possibly enough to be able to afford the house rather than the hotel!)
Maryn, who'll stop with this
Maryn! 
"Their eyes met over the melon display in the produce section..."
