I prefer trips slightly off the beaten trail- Im in the midst of finalizing a trip in April to Reykjavik, Iceland. I have always wanted to go there. In fact, I have wanted to go there so much it will most likely only be disappointing because my expectations are so high.
With that said, go to a place with low expectations and see how like it. I will second what MJK said - go to sante fe for an interesting little side trip from where you live. its small, quaint, beautiful weather, great art, huge jazz scene, and the largest hotair balooon festival in the world (I actually promised an ex I would take her there and up in a balloon one day! Lol, damn fool...).