Matt Villano

Contributing Writer, Via
Photo of AAA Via Magazine Contributor Matt Villano

Matt Villano is a freelance writer and editor based in Healdsburg, California with more than 20 years of experience.

Featured Publications

He has written for outlets including CNN Travel, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, AFAR, TIME, National Geographic Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and the San Francisco Chronicle to name a few.

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Articles by Matt Villano

A family hikes through the vibrant rocks at Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada.

Eye-catching rock formations, desert wildlife, and mementos of history make this day trip from Las Vegas a win.

Large field of poppies at the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, California at sunset.

Stretch your legs, grab a snack, and take a break at these spots along Interstate 5 in California.

A Hurtigruten Cruise sails under the northern lights.

Head to Alaska to catch this natural wonder in its peak season.

Golden Gate Bridge pedestrian path in San Francisco, California

Don't miss these easy hikes in the Bay Area, Southern California, Oregon, Washington, and Arizona.

People dine outside at the Farm-to-Table Dinner at Kendall-Jackson in Fulton, California.

Enjoy Northern California’s harvest season at these less-visited spots.

Northern lights above the trees in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Witness the stunning aurora borealis at one of these spots.

San Gregorio State Beach at sunset, Half Moon Bay, California.

About a half-hour south of San Francisco, a farming and fishing community comes to life in autumn.

Stairs leading to the beach at sunset at Crystal Cove State Park in Laguna Beach, California

The Pacific Coast teems with tide pools and little critters waiting to be discovered.

Metal sculptures along the Neon Line in Reno, Nevada.

There’s never been more to see and do in Reno.

deer prance through Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park as the Cathedral Range looms in background

Venture beyond Yosemite Valley to find mountain magic at California's most popular national park.

kids holding hands and running into the waves together.

From warm sand to fresh snow, play together at these kid-friendly spots in the West.

shattered glass around a broken car window

Accidents happen. An escape plan—and the right tools—can help you stay safe and calm.

trail through redwoods in Mendocino, California

Five great reasons to skip the beach and explore inland in Northern California.

An extended family on a camping trip

Plan a getaway that keeps multiple generations happy.

A father and daughter strolling the beach in Encinitas, California

Stroll, splash, and explore in these Pacific Coast towns.