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The 10 most fun states in America to visit this summer, according to a new report

"Fun" looks a bit different for everyone, but some factors are universal: nice weather and a menu of entertaining, affordable activities, for example, almost always help create a fun environment.

Now that summer is here, people's calendars will be filling up with outdoor concerts, vacations and other festivities — and if you're lucky enough to take time off from work this season, you might be wondering where to go and what to do to get the most out of your summer.

Some places make it easier for you to enjoy yourself than others – at least according to a new report from WalletHub , which identifies the most fun states in America.

To determine the list, the personal finance website compared all 50 states and the District of Columbia across two key dimensions: "entertainment and recreation" and "nightlife."

More than 25 metrics were used, including restaurants and amusement parks per capita, shoreline mileage as well as access to national parks, and metrics were weighted differently. To calculate the overall score, each state's weighted average across all metrics was used.

Here are the 10 most fun states in America, according to WalletHub's report:

1. California

Total score: 63.60

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 1

Nightlife ranking: 3

2. Florida

Total score: 61.26

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 2

Nightlife ranking: 8

Total score: 59.84

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 4

Nightlife ranking: 1

4. New York

Total score: 56.11

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 3

Nightlife ranking: 7

5. Illinois

Total score: 55.33

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 5

Nightlife ranking: 4

6. Colorado

Total score: 51.38

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 6

Nightlife ranking: 10

7. Washington

Total score: 50.64

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 8

Nightlife ranking: 9

Total score: 50.27

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 7

Nightlife ranking: 13

9. Minnesota

Total score: 45.21

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 11

Nightlife ranking: 6

10. Louisiana

Total score: 44.53

Entertainment & recreation ranking: 14

Nightlife ranking: 2

It's no surprise that coastal states with thriving tourism industries such as California, Florida and New York top the list, as these destinations have been consistently ranked on travel blogs and reports as some of the best places to visit in the U.S.

Other states scored well on more specific metrics to secure a spot in the top 10: Louisiana, home to New Orleans, was recognized for its nightlife, while Texas, the birthplace of Six Flags, was tops for the most amusement parks per capita.

WalletHub also considered accessibility to scenic byways, the number of state fairs and the average price of beer and wine, among other factors, to compile its ranking.

Some states on the list, including California, Colorado and Florida, spend "a great deal" to promote local tourism, Tom Lehman, an economics professor at Indiana Wesleyan University, told WalletHub. While it is difficult to measure the direct impact of state-sponsored campaigns on tourist promotion, such campaigns tend to have "some minor positive impact on the level of out-of-state visitors and revenues," he added.

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U.S. States, Ranked from Least to Most Fun

Fun in America is not equally distributed. While some states have a wide variety of entertainment options for every type of person, others lack much more than fields and Walmart parking lots.

So, who's having the most fun? We've ranked every U.S. state from worst to best in terms of having an amazing time and trips you'll never forget.

Where should you go to have a good time? Read on!

50. Delaware

It's not Delaware's size as the second smallest state in the U.S. that makes it less fun than others. The First State has the second-fewest number of movie theaters and the most boring nightlife. (Yawn!)

It also has some of the fewest restaurants, golf courses and performing arts theaters in the country, and its residents spend less than most states on recreation services.

Where to have fun: Delaware has 28 miles of dune-backed coastline with quaint Victorian beach towns providing family-friendly fun. The city of Wilmington, inland, also features a riverfront park district with ample dining and shopping. For partying, Rehoboth Beach is the best choice in the state.

49. Mississippi

Farther south, Mississippi lands near the bottom due to its lack of movie theaters and performing arts theaters. You also shouldn't expect much regarding the variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments.

While the state has natural beauty, it hasn't known how to make it more easily accessible to travelers.

Where to have fun: Attempt to make some coin while enjoying yourself at the Beau Rivage Resort and Casino, learn a bit about the Civil War at Vicksburg National Military Park and take a dip in the warm coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

48. Indiana

Midwestern states get a bad rap on people's fun-o-meter. Indiana's flat land is ideal for farming but horrible for most other activities. It also lacks much access to national parks, housing a paltry three National Park Service sites .

Where to Have Fun: Indianapolis is one of the state's best features, serving as home to the world's largest racing circuit; the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, considered the best kids' museum in the country; and 11 professional sports teams, including the NFL's Colts and the NBA's Pacers.

Iowa has the second-most golf courses and country clubs per capita than any other state and more movie theaters than most. But golf and movies aren't enough to earn Iowa a coveted "fun" status.

What it really needs are more amusement parks, restaurants, theaters and attractions (other than the "Field of Dreams" baseball field, that is).

Where to have fun: There are some unusual sites in Iowa, like the Captain James T. Kirk Future Birthplace, Villisca Axe Murder House and Day the Music Died Memorial, which uses thick black glasses to mark the site of the plane crash that took the life of Buddy Holly (along with the Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens).

46. Arkansas

Arkansas is one of the worst states for nightlife, lacking bars, music festivals, casinos and performing arts theaters. The state's bars also have shockingly early last call and closing times.

Don't expect much to do here.

Where to have fun: Considering that a schoolteacher found a 2.12-carat diamond in July 2019 at the finders-keepers Crater of Diamonds State Park , we think there is a wealth of reasons to visit Arkansas.

45. Nebraska

Nebraska has a very low ranking for entertainment and recreation, with relatively scant marinas (duh!), arcades, movie theaters, restaurants and golf courses.

Heck, even Nebraskans don't tend to boast about Nebraska. In late 2018, the state unveiled its new tourism tagline: "Honestly, it's not for everyone."

Where to have fun: The tagline is actually a joke, playing off the stereotypes people have of Nebraska being boring. There are several cool and quirky places to visit if you ever make it to the state, including Scotts Bluff National Monument, Chimney Rock National Historic Site and Carhenge, a modern-day Stonehenge made of old cars.

44. Oklahoma

Oklahoma is not exactly known for its entertainment, recreation and nightlife. It's got a little bit of a lot of things. But not a whole lot of any particular thing.

Where to have fun: You can explore some interesting attractions in Oklahoma, including a psychedelic arts center known as The Womb in Oklahoma City, an abandoned circus camp called Gandini's Circle in Edmond, and the world's only museum dedicated to action figures in Pauls Valley.

43. Connecticut

One of the states with the worst access to national parks, Connecticut is considered to be one of the 10 least fun states in America. The state's relative scarcity of scenic byways, subpar beach quality, and minimal investment in parks and recreation earn it a low spot on this list.

Where to have fun: Foxwoods Resort and Casino and Mohegan Sun, both of which offer concerts from top-charting performers, are among the exciting gaming establishments.

42. North Dakota

Remote North Dakota is mainly a wide expanse of undeveloped land, which could be the reason it offers the fewest restaurants per capita. Fargo, its largest city, only has 126,748 residents.

But North Dakota has one of the highest state and local spending on parks and recreation. So if you don't mind skipping city nightlife, you'll find cool things to do in nature.

Where to have fun: State and national parks are the big draw here. If you ever make it to the state, check out Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Fort Mandan, which offers an interpretive history of explorers Lewis & Clark.

Ohio, where grassy knolls abound, is home to several golf courses and amusement parks.

It does well in terms of nightlife, especially good in Columbus and Cincinnati. (Really!)

Where to have fun: You can enjoy fun and games at Cedar Point and Kings Island amusement parks, or at outdoor parks like Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Hocking Hills State Park.

40. New Hampshire

New Hampshire doesn't invest much in parks and recreation, which is sad when you consider how much of it is wooded for outdoor fun. Perhaps spending isn't needed when the residents can simply go out the door and enjoy nature, but having a more organized experience would be nice.

While outdoor fun may be plentiful, the state's nightlife leaves much to be desired, making New Hampshire's score low enough to land it among the 10 most boring states.

Where to have fun: New Hampshire offers great ski trails, especially near Mount Washington. That peak is also a summer play area, as is Franconia Notch State Park and the large Lake Winni (Lake Winnipesaukee) and its 258 islands.

Dorothy may have wanted nothing more than to return to Kansas in "The Wizard of Oz," but this Midwestern state doesn't offer much in terms of fun. There's nothing particularly dismal about it but also nothing specific to write home about...except for its BBQ, which locals swear is better in the Kansas Side of Kansas City.

Where to have fun: While the Kansas side of Kansas City is less jam-packed with attractions than the Missouri side, it has its own charms, including the Providence Medical Center Amphitheater (or Sandstone as most locals know it), a rollicking outdoor music venue. Elsewhere, Lawrence is a happening college town, and the Flint Hills are ideal for outdoor exploration.

38. Alabama

Neighboring Mississippi, Alabama fares only slightly better. The state offers fewer performing arts theaters than most states, and its cities have relatively few entertainment venues.

Where to have fun: Alabama's Gulf Shores is considered an American Riviera for its 60 miles of beaches so soft the sand squeaks when you walk on it, "singing" as you take in the surrounding emerald-green gulf waters. It's also home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, where all ages can get a taste of space and weightlessness — how fun is that?!

37. South Dakota

South Dakota touts better attractions and nightlife than its neighboring rival, North Dakota, landing it a few spots above a state it's too often confused with.

Still, South Dakota has fewer restaurants per capita than most, and, with a lack of lakes and seas, fewer water activities.

Where to have fun: One of the states with the best access to national parks, South Dakota is home to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Badlands National Park and Wind Cave National Park, as well as Custer State Park.

36. West Virginia

West Virginia has one of the lowest variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments. It also is one of the states with the fewest performing arts theaters, fitness centers and nightlife venues.

At least you'll be able to head out to nature for rafting, hiking and skiing adventures.

Where to have fun: West Virginia is home to part of the Appalachian mountain range. It also features an adventure-lover's-dream whitewater river-rafting trip along the New River Gorge National Park, and houses the historic and stately Greenbrier Hotel, which has welcomed guests since 1778.

35. Rhode Island

Rhode Island may be the smallest state and among the states with the fewest movie theaters per capita, but it does provide plenty of access to the water

Where to have fun: The state touts 384 miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay, even though it's only 37 miles wide and 48 miles long. The town of Newport is even considered the world capital of sailing.

34. Maryland

Known as a sailing hotspot, Maryland has a surprising amount of marinas and nearly 3,200 miles of coastline to enjoy (when you follow the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's measurements).

And while this is worthy of note, alas, the nightlife is quite average, keeping Maryland from a higher spot on the fun chart.

Where to have fun: Baltimore's wealth of attractions includes the National Aquarium, Fort McHenry National Monument, and the Inner Harbor restaurants and shops. And while the state as a whole doesn't offer much nightlife, the city's Fells Point is an excellent place for a pub crawl.

Idaho landed in a relatively low position for having fewer performing arts theaters than the majority of states. But what the state lacks in indoor fun, it makes up for in outdoor adventures. It has part of Yellowstone National Park and boasts many ski facilities that aren't as crowded.

Where to have fun: Getting outside is big in this northwestern state, where you can hike along the Oregon Trail, at Shoshone Falls Park or at Craters of the Moon National Park.

32. Minnesota

Minnesota also has one of the country's highest concentrations of performing arts theaters per capita. It also borders Lake Superior and Canada, making for interesting nature excursions.

Where to have fun: There is so much more than the state's famous Mall of America, much of it outdoor fun. Enjoy the trails at Voyageurs National Park, the waterfalls in Minnehaha Park and on-the-water thrills at Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wildnerness.

31. Vermont

Often snow-covered during its long winter months, Vermont has great skiing facilities and is one of the states with the highest variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments.

Alas, that wasn't enough to move Vermont higher on the list, as it fares poorly in terms of attractions, amusement parks, arcades, nightlife accessibility and affordability.

Where to Have Fun: Those ski resorts in Vermont make the state the top spot for skiers on the East Coast, with places like Killington, Stowe, Okemo and Sugarbush providing some of the highest verticals and best powder east of the Mississippi River.

30. Kentucky

Kentucky is famous for horse races and having the world's largest baseball bat. It's also one of the states with the most skiing facilities per capita.

The Bourbon Trail and a legacy of blues also earn it a middle-ground spot. Plus, nature is simply gorgeous here. However, the state can't compensate for its lack of theater and entertainment options.

Where to have fun: Besides checking out Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and visiting Churchill Downs, Mammoth Cave National Park features awe-inspiring caverns to explore.

29. Wyoming

Wyoming has the second-best access to national parks, placing it higher on this list. But that's about it.

For instance, its nightlife really is a downer. Wyoming is missing out on access to bars, music festivals, casinos, theaters and nightlife options. Moreover, it lacks in dining as well.

Where to have fun: Like its neighboring states, Wyoming draws adventure-seeking crowds. Visit Grand Teton National Park, Devils Tower National Monument and even Yellowstone, which crosses into Wyoming and provides natural entertainment in the form of Old Faithful's geyser-spewing moments.

28. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a large state that offers two awesome cities at either end for theater, restaurants and nightlife, then sprinkles in history, outdoor fun and amusements everywhere in between.

From Pittsburgh on the west to Philadelphia on the east, city-lovers will find lively bars and restaurants, museums dedicated to art and history, and festivals to fill weekend days. When hitting the rural roads, you'll stumble upon the Appalachian Mountains and the Poconos, where you can see how life was lived during a simpler era in Amish Country.

Where to have fun: Visit the home of chocolate, Hershey, to learn about the man behind the name, and to sample all of his candies. Then take a spin on a roller coaster or two at Hersheypark.

27. Missouri

The Show-Me State has a decent amount of things to show you in terms of fun, especially within the confines of St. Louis and Kansas City.

The state is also home to Branson, where Silver Dollar City and the Ozarks are a huge draw for American visitors — this is why it's ranked higher than most people would have expected.

Where to have fun: Enjoy professional sporting events in Missouri, home of the MLB's St. Louis Cardinals, NHL's St. Louis Blues and NFL's Kansas City Chiefs, which it shares with Kansas. You'll also find attractions galore in the Missouri part of Kansas City, including the National World War I Monument and Museum and Harry S Truman National Historic Site for history buffs, Worlds of Fun amusement park and Sea Life Kansas City aquarium for kids, and tons of great museums like the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, the American Jazz Museum and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

26. Montana

Remotely tucked away near the Dakotas and serving mostly as cattle land, Montana isn't considered very fun. Its dearth of movie theaters, amusement parks, golf courses and theaters really does it in.

Then again, Montana has ski facilities and access to gorgeous national parks. Plus, it's filled with dude ranches where you can engage in fun activities like star gazing, horseback riding, hiking, fishing and more.

Where to have fun: Montana certainly has parks and ski resorts in spades, such as Big Sky Resort for skiing and hiking and Glacier National Park. And, if you're looking for one of the most picturesque drives in the country, you'll find it here along Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Alaska is another state where the wealth of daylight entertainment far exceeds the nightlife. It has fewer restaurants, movie theaters and variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments than most of the country. But it also has the best access to national parks, according to the research.

This mix of good and bad lands it in the middle of the list for fun.

Where to have fun: The national parks, of course! ( Eight of them , to be precise)Denali, Glacier Bay, Kenai Fjords? All yours for the exploring.

Maine has an impressive number of skiing facilities and a long coastline. Plus, it has a decent variety of arts establishments. So why does it land so low on the list of fun states?

The great outdoors is Maine's most appealing attribute, with nightlife failing miserably.

Where to have fun: Maine is home to one of the most scenic national parks in the country: Acadia, which is nestled on just a fraction of the state's 3,478 coastline miles. (That's more than California, by the way!)

23. Wisconsin

You might be surprised to see Wisconsin rank better than other Midwest states, but thank its unexpectedly fun nightlife. Madison, Milwaukee, Green Bay? They know how to have a good time when the sun goes down.

The state has more country clubs and golf courses per capita than most. On the flip side, it has poor access to national parks.

Where to have fun: Wisconsin Dells is the "waterpark capital of the world." Slip and slide your way around at Noah's Ark Waterpark, one of the largest you'll ever see.

Utah is one of the worst states in the nation for having a fun night out. But during the day? There is a plethora of activities to keep you smiling, including national and state parks. There are also ski resort towns like Park City.

Where to have fun: Utah is home to the Mighty 5 : Arches, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands National Parks — some of the best and most beautiful parks in the country.

21. South Carolina

Similar to its northern neighbor, which ranks even higher on this list, South Carolina is considered to be a fun and affordable state to visit. Beaches with amusement parks, national parks and gardens, sprawling plantations and up-and-coming cities are all part of the fun here.

Where to have fun: Myrtle Beach is one of the biggest vacation destinations in the country, especially for families. Head over to enjoy the tallest Ferris wheel in the U.S.

20. Georgia

Georgia is another middle-ground state in terms of fun.

As home to the capital of the South, Atlanta, and the charmingly graceful city of Savannah, plus many spots in between hoping to show you a good time, don't discount Georgia just because it's not too high on this list.

Where to have fun: The Georgia Aquarium is the world's largest, while the World of Coca-Cola is perfect for sampling unique soda from around the planet. Both are near Centennial Olympic Park in happening Atlanta.

19. Michigan

Michigan is home to many golf courses and country clubs per capita. You'll also find a good mix of things to do here, from eating at top-notch restaurants, to connecting with your inner kid at arcades, to catching flicks at movie theaters, to enjoying world-class skiing.

Where to have fun: Michigan is also home to national parks galore, many of which are along the Great Lakes. Try Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Isle Royale National Park.

Texas is an extra-big state with extra-big attractions. It has it all: beaches, hills, cities, science, history and lots to see and do. It also has some of the country's best food scenes.

But the state lacks shine in its offerings. Its nightlife is ok, even in big cities, its beaches aren't that nice and its national parks are somewhat difficult to access. That said, no one can complain about the state's amazing cuisine.

Where to have fun: You can remember The Alamo in San Antonio, as well as cruise down a river while dining along the city's River Walk. In Houston, visit the Space Center, then head down the coast to Galveston and South Padre Island for beaches and sun.

17. New Jersey

The Garden State's shore is a hot spot in the summer, but it isn't actually that long and doesn't feature as much soft, clean sand as other ocean-bordering states. This is also one of the states with the lowest variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments — why bother when you can cross a river and enjoy all New York City to the north or Philadelphia to the south have to offer instead?

Where to have fun: New York may claim the Statue of Liberty as its own , but Jersey's Liberty State Park overlooking the statue and the Manhattan skyline offers the best views. Plus, when summer does visit for its brief three-month stint, the Jersey Shore's boardwalk-lined beaches are a blast.

16. New Mexico

It doesn't matter that New Mexico has few golf courses and no access to the sea. The state makes up for it with a good mix of art, entertainment, amusement, restaurants and more.

And it's one of the best states for accessing national parks to boot.

Where to have fun: There are great national parks in this southwestern state, including Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands National Parks , and Chaco Culture National Historic Site.

The Pacific Northwest was an insider's secret for generations, but no more. Now everyone has discovered just how beautiful and laidback the area is, with loads of things to do outside, from Crater Lake National Park to mountains and waterfalls for exploring, hiking and skiing.

Plus, Oregon also has Portland, which provides it with nightlife, world-class dining and an impressive microbrewery scene.

Where to have fun: Visit the city of Portland and wander through the Japanese Garden and International Rose Test Garden to find your zen.

14. North Carolina

In North Carolina, you'll find beaches and mountains and cute cities with restaurants, museums, nightlife and attractions — all at lower costs than the majority of states.

Having fun for free is certainly better than paying for it!

Where to have fun: The Outer Banks' beaches make up a national dune-filled seashore on the east coast, while the Blue Ridge Mountains promise beautiful scenery in the western part of the state. Stop in Asheville to visit the Biltmore, the largest privately owned home in the country.

13. Virginia

You're not likely to tie one on and dance the night away in Virginia, but you might do it in Washington, D.C., which is right next to the state's northern border.

The state also has many other underrated forms of entertainment, including plenty of hiking trails, historic cities and vineyards. Yes, this is one of America's wine-producing regions.

Where to have fun: We love Virginia for its history — it seems everywhere you turn you can find something that forged a place on America's timeline, including George Washington's Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, as well as the Arlington National Cemetery. You can also enjoy Shenandoah National Park and take the scenic route along Skyline Drive.

12. Illinois

With more restaurants and performing arts theaters than most states, Illinois is one of the best states for nightlife. There is plenty to keep you busy in the heartland of America, specifically in Chicago, the largest city in the Midwest.

Although the state doesn't have great access to national parks, it makes up for it with its Lake Michigan coastline.

Where to have fun: Outside of the music venues in Chicago and East St. Louis, Illinois is home to the famed Route 66 starting point. Notable Americans like Abraham Lincoln, Ernest Hemingway and Frank Lloyd Wright lived here. You can visit all of their former homes.

11. Massachusetts

Massachusetts has more performing arts theaters than most other states, many of which can be found in Boston and the Berkshires for end-to-end state entertainment. Besides this, Boston boasts some of the most respected art museums on the planet, as well as numerous historical sites and plenty of places to enjoy nightlife.

You also have access to the coast, where you can enjoy the beach, go on whale-watching tours and do other interesting activities.

Where to have fun: From the Berkshires to the Cape, Massachusetts offers fun in all forms: hiking in the woods, sunning on the beach, sailing off the coast and exploring historic sites, just for example.

10. Tennessee

One of the states with the highest variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments, Tennessee is also great for nightlife.

Memphis and Nashville are both hot cities for getting out and getting down, with a variety of live-music venues and clubs on tap.

Where to have fun: Check out the country music scene in Nashville at the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and Country Music Hall of Fame, or learn more about blues and rock in Memphis along Beale Street and at Graceland and Sun Studio.

Arizona is filled with amazing national parks and has lots of fun resorts and golf courses to lounge the day away. Plus, hot-air balloon rides are a daily occurrence in several cities, including artsy Sedona.

Where to have fun: This is the state where you'll find the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley — three amazing southwestern backdrops that draw visitors from around the world.

8. Washington

Washington has been consistently growing as a travel destination now that people have uncovered how truly hip it is. The state brought on the local breweries trend that has spread across the country, and Seattle's cool vibe includes tons of restaurants, theaters and entertainment.

If that wasn't enough, Washington's national parks, including Olympic and Mount Rainier, are just a stone's throw from Seattle, and the nearby San Juan Islands provide a boating paradise.

Where to have fun: While in Seattle, see the city from atop the iconic Space Needle, visit the landmark Pike Place Market and step into pop-culture history at the Museum of Pop Culture.

7. Colorado

Colorado is known to be an outdoor-lover's dream state, with locals touting its hiking, biking and ski trails and practically perfect year-round weather.

Sure enough, the state lands in the top 10, as recreation is a top priority for locals. If you want to do something that's not in nature, head to Denver, where you'll get plenty of nightlife, theatrical shows, concerts and good dining.

Where to Have Fun: It's all about the outdoors here : Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Garden of the Gods — even concerts are enjoyed outside at Red Rocks Canyon.

Was there any doubt that Nevada was going to land within the top 10?

Nevada features some of the most varied arts, entertainment and recreation establishments in the nation, including abundant outdoor recreation in the desert, where even guests of Vegas can enjoy the red rocks, Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon, just over the border in Arizona.

Where to have fun: There is nowhere else like the casinos of Las Vegas — sample the glitz and glamour of the Bellagio and Venetian along The Strip , and don't forget to take in a performance from one of the many A-list stars hosting residencies in town.

5. Louisiana

When you throw one of the biggest parties in the world, you're bound to be considered one of the most fun states in America. That's certainly the case for Louisiana, where foot-tall Hurricanes are the drink of choice along beloved Bourbon Street, whether its Mardi Gras or not.

It's not only about the drinks in Louisiana, of course. Airboat tours in the swampland, discovering the history of voodoo and sampling amazing food are in the cards as well. Plus, Cajun food is good enough to warrant a foodie-centric state tour.

Where to have fun: New Orleans, of course! Home to the French Quarter, Jackson Square and nightclubs filled with lively jazz music, this city has excitement down.

4. New York

Of course, New York made the top five. Tied for having the most restaurants, most movie theaters, most performing arts theaters and most fitness centers, the question should really be "What doesn't New York have?"

Nightlife, of course, isn't the answer. The state has one of the highest rankings for nightlife, as well, and we're betting New York City heavily affected that rating — theaters, bars and clubs promise fun that spills well into the night. All in all, it's easy to love New York. If it didn't land as number one, it's because most of its entertainment is concentrated in a single city.

Where to have fun: New York City isn't the only hotspot in the state. Visit Niagara Falls near Buffalo, ski an Olympic slope in Lake Placid and go leaf-peeping in the fall in the Catskills.

We really shouldn't have to explain why Florida came out in the top three: The state boasts more than 1,200 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean with beaches galore. It is also home to Disney World and scores of amusement parks like Busch Gardens and Universal Studios.

Florida also has an incredible array of restaurants. That's because this state is home to cities filled with Caribbean and Latin flair, especially in Miami, where all-night dance clubs and hip international-cuisine-filled restaurants attract throngs of visitors. And to top it all off, it has three gorgeous national parks, plus dozens of crystal-clear springs where you can cool off in the summer.

Where to have fun: If you really have to ask, let's add to the mix places like the Kennedy Space Center, the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park.

Outside of Honolulu, Hawaii lacks bars, clubs and entertainment venues.

Then again, why would you want to waste time in these when you could explore crystal-clear oceans, rainforests with waterfalls and golden-sand beaches?

This is a state where you can actually see lava flow straight into the ocean, and where you can learn about a millenary native culture that has been kept alive despite colonization. If you ever get bored in Hawaii, know that it's you, not the state.

Where to have fun: Surfing, kayaking, SUPing, snorkeling, boating — anything to enjoy the warm Pacific Ocean waters is a must-do. On land, visit national parks like Haleakala or Hawaii Volcanoes.

1. California

The state that bests them all has to have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to fun and flair — and California sure does. Hugging the Pacific Ocean are 840 miles of coastline with surf-friendly beaches. The state also introduced the world to Disneyland well before Florida's "World" came along. And while it doesn't have Miami, it does have world-class cities in the form of Los Angeles and San Francisco, along with Hollywood and all that entails.

The state is also food heaven, with incredible Asian and Latin American fusion dishes being invented seemingly every day. Plus, there is skiing in Lake Tahoe and so many ways to enjoy the outdoors, from Yosemite and Death Valley to Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks. California definitely earned its blue ribbon.

Where to have fun: Something else California does best: vineyards. Napa Valley, Sonoma County and Santa Barbara produce some of the world's finest wines.

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Here Are the Most (and Least) Fun States in the US

If you're looking to have fun, then it's time to head west.

Wallethub has released its list of the most fun states in the country and found California is where it's at.

"There are certain states where fun is not just an option but also a way of life," Wallethub wrote about its list in a blog post . "These states offer such a variety of activities that everyone will be able to find something that excites them."

To determine the rankings, Wallethub compared all 50 states across 26 "indicators of a jolly good time that won't break the bank." The indicators included the average weather, the cost of going to the movies, accessibility to national parks, as well as restaurants, fitness centers, and casinos per capita.

After calculating the results, California came out on top with a total score of 63.60. The state came in first place for its "entertainment and recreation" rank as well as third place for its "nightlife" rank.

Florida came in a close second with a score of 61.26. Rounding out the top 10 most fun states are Nevada, New York , Illinois, Colorado, Washington, Texas, Minnesota, and Louisiana.

It was a close race. According to Wallethub, California, New York, Florida, and Texas all tied for having the most restaurants per capita. California and Texas tied for having the most movie theaters as well.

Because everyone's idea of fun is different, it's worth exploring Wallethub's other findings.

For example, those looking to experience national parks may want to head to Alaska, Wyoming, and Montana, which came in first, second, and third place respectively for their access to parks.

And, travelers hoping to get in a round of golf should look to Michigan, Iowa, and Wisconsin, which also ranked first to third for their number of golf courses per capita.

As for where fun-seekers should avoid, Wallethub ranked West Virginia as the least fun state. It came in 49th place for its "entertainment and recreation" rank and 46th for its "nightlife" rank.

Other states in the bottom 10 include Kentucky, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Alabama, Vermont, Arkansas, Rhode Island, Delaware, and Mississippi.

Looking to have more fun on vacation? Try these 13 totally under-the-radar destinations that are packed with good times for travelers of all ages.

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10 Best States to Visit in the USA

The United States is a kaleidoscope of cosmopolitan cities, rich cultures, and enchanting landscapes catering for everything from city breaks to longer escapes in nature.

Each American state has its own unique attraction and individual character. Experience the wilderness in Alaska, taste fine wines in California, and tick off bucket list sights in New York State. Whether you’re looking to embrace the beauty of its national parks and desert landscapes, enjoy the thrills and spills of a world-class amusement park, or simply relax on sun-splashed beaches, there’s an American state with your name on it.

10. Washington

When you’re touring America, Washington – the only state named after a president – is as good a place to start as any. It’s been nicknamed the Evergreen State because of its abundance of rich green forests, particularly found in Seattle, the Emerald City. Interestingly, it produces more apples than any other U.S. state and it’s home to the oldest human remains in North America.

Split in two by the Cascade Mountains, Washington state has parks, volcanoes and idyllic islands to one side and coastal forests, farmlands, and hundreds of wineries on the other. The North Cascades are a beauty to discover with its steep mountains and crisp freshwater lakes, perfect for outdoorsy travelers.

For those who would prefer a break from the mainland, the San Juan Islands are a series of forested islands offering kayaking, orca whale watching, and bird watching opportunities.

 9. Wyoming

Tucked away in the rugged mountains of the Western United States, Wyoming is both wild and wonderful. Despite its large size, it is one of the most sparsely populated states in America. Here, you’ll swap city sights and crowds for national parks, cowboy ranches, hot springs, and endless wilderness.

But there is history to be found here too; Wyoming was the first state to give women the right to vote in 1869. For outdoorsy travelers, Yellowstone National Park is a major highlight with its extraordinary geothermal activity and wildlife-abundant plains dotted with wolves, elk, and grizzly bears. It is home to more geysers than any other geyser field in the world!

Along with Grand Teton National Park and Hot Springs State Park, Wyoming is perfect for all kinds of outdoor adventures, from hiking, swimming, and kayaking to mountain biking and skiing.  

The second-largest state in the United States, Texas really packs a punch. Situated in the South Central region, it’s loved for its soaring temperatures, country music, famous Texan BBQs, and bird watching – it’s home to more bird species than any other U.S. state.

Known as the Lone Star State (so-called for its flag and former independence as a Republic), Texas still feels different from the rest of the USA. Although despite its massive size that incorporates 28 cities, the proud people of Texas share the same values, patriotism, and a distinct culture.

Don’t leave without taking a stroll along the San Antonio River Walk with its art galleries, museums, restaurants, and endless opportunities for retail therapy. For a little history, visit the Alamo historical fort that played a pivotal role in the 1835 Texan independence war against Mexico.  

7. Colorado

Known as the Centennial State, Colorado is the highest elevated state in the United States. One of the Mountain States, it’s characterized by beautiful peaks, dense forests, deep canyons, and gorgeous meandering rivers. While the majority of the attractions are nature-based, the bustling capital of Denver – the Mile High City – is also worth a visit with its craft breweries and epic nightlife scene.

Colorado has many claims to fame. It’s home to the world’s largest hot spring pool, the deepest hot spring on Earth, the highest paved road in the U.S., and the largest flat-top mountain in the world.

But one of the main reasons tourists flock to Colorado is for its year-round skiing opportunities. Home to a wealth of excellent ski resorts like Aspen and Vail, the state’s frequent mountain snowstorms ensure that there’s plenty of fresh powder for skiing and snowboarding. While you can get great deals for skiing throughout the year, the best skiing in Colorado is hands down between February and March.

Alaska, the largest U.S state, is an astonishing place, home to thousands of rivers and streams, hundreds of thousands of astonishing glaciers, and millions of glistening lakes. In fact, these magical glaciers cover around 5% of the entire state!

Known as the ‘Last Frontier’ because of its distance from the rest of the U.S states, Alaska is an isolated place. The large majority is in the Arctic. A short visit to Alaska likely won’t scratch the surface but you can get a feel for the state with expeditions to see Alaskan wildlife such as wolves, moose, whales, and Kodiak bears.

Many don’t know this, but the best thing about Alaska is that you can witness the Northern Lights here for over 240 days of the year, probably because of the low light levels – in some parts of the state, the sun doesn’t rise for nearly two months! But when the sun does rise, it really rises: it often doesn’t set again for three months. This time of the year is ideal for wildlife watching.

The state of Arizona is an enchanting wonderland of spectacular red rock canyons and desert plateaus. But while it is most famous for the iconic landscapes of the Grand Canyon , stretching through the dramatic Petrified Forest and the vibrant and colorful Painted Desert, Arizona is so much more than that.

You’ll also find more mountains in the Grand Canyon State than in Switzerland, and a quarter of the state is covered in the largest unbroken Ponderosa pine forests in America. Add to that the wooded slopes of the Mogollon Rim and the dramatic desert sweeps of Monument Valley and the Sonoran Desert and you’ve really got a mix of everything.

But scenery aside, Arizona also has some lovely small towns that are worth a visit, including the capital, Phoenix, known for its world-class spas and championship golf courses.

 4. New York

New York State is tucked away in the north-eastern section of the United States. Lovingly dubbed the Empire State, it is most famous for the cosmopolitan sights of New York City, where you’ll find the glitz and glamor of Manhattan’s high rises, bustling Times Square, and the fresh green walkways of Central Park.

It’s not just the Big Apple that draws visitors to the fourth most populated U.S. state, but the quieter adventures to be found upstate, such as the captivating Adirondacks. New York State is also known for the thundering Niagara Falls, its fabulous Long Island beaches, and the wine-producing Finger Lakes Region, with 100-plus wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Here, you can enjoy hiking around the many lakes, tastings at a winery, or a mix of both for the best of both worlds!

The state of Hawaii is the longest island chain in the world – so long that it even has its own time zone! The southernmost state in the United States, it is also the only American state that’s made up entirely of islands. Interestingly, only seven of these 130-plus islands are inhabited. The rest are reserved purely for adventures: think waterfall trekking, thrilling helicopter rides, and lazy beach days!

The Aloha State is also a great spot for foodies. It is the only state that grows its own coffee, and more than a third of the world’s pineapples are grown in Hawaii. Each island has its own appeal: spend your days chasing waterfalls in Kauai , surfing on Big Island, or relaxing on Oahu’s powdery beaches. You won’t be disappointed.

 2. Florida

Florida is where the fun happens; a fact that’s backed by the 90-million-plus visitors that visit here every year. Known as the Sunshine State, it’s chock-a-block with family-friendly attractions, from theme parks to water parks and beaches. Plus, it boasts over 230 days of sunshine a year!

Orlando is undoubtedly the highlight, home to Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom, the most popular theme park in the world. But Universal Studios, the many glamorous shopping malls, and undulating golf courses also give visitors a run for their money.

Miami is a close second with its white-sand beaches, glitzy beach resorts, and diving oases. Interestingly, Florida is home to over 7,000 lakes and more golf courses than any other state in the nation. Perfect for teeing off, it doesn’t hurt that it is the flattest state in the United States.

 1. California

With its glorious beaches, great weather, and undulating wine country, the Golden State is the perfect combination for a relaxing holiday. Indulge your inner child with a visit to Anaheim’s Disneyland Park and discover the thrills and spills of San Diego’s endless water parks. Also referred to as the Grape State, California produces nearly 90% of the nation’s wine, so come thirsty!

But wine and beaches aside, Cali also has some spectacular landscapes, ranging from sun-drenched coastlines to desert dunes and everything in between. Hike the peaks of Yosemite National Park, descend to the lowest point of the United States in Death Valley, or explore the iconic city sights like San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Don’t miss the chance to walk the eerie corridors of the notorious Alcatraz island prison. It’s unforgettable!

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October 4, 2023 at 7:43 am

somebody told me that the best weather is in California. Is this the right statement?

October 4, 2023 at 2:55 pm

That would be Southern California.

It's Official, These Are the Most Fun States in America

WalletHub compared nightlife, entertainment, and recreation across all 50 states.

From going on a hike to visiting an amusement park, finding fun things to do in your state is something many people enjoy. But if you've been struggling to find activities that interest you in your hometown, you may want to consider visiting a state that's known for being fun. To help thrill-seekers around the country, WalletHub , a personal finance website, released its list of the most fun states in America.

To obtain the findings, the company compared all 50 states across two key categories: nightlife, and entertainment and recreation. They evaluated those categories using 26 relevant metrics, including number of attractions, ideal weather, movie costs, and number of state fairs. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 indicating the greatest amount of fun and cost-effective options.

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At the top of the list is California, which had an overall score of 64.56, and ranked first in entertainment and recreation and fourth in nightlife. According to WalletHub, the Golden State has the most restaurants, movie theaters, and fitness centers per capita.

With a total fun score of 61.72, Florida followed California on the list. The state ranked second in entertainment and recreation and 11th in nightlife. In addition to having many restaurants per capita, Florida also has a notable number of golf courses, fitness centers, and marinas.

Rounding out the top five is Nevada, New York, and Illinois with fun scores of 58.19, 56.44, and 53.42 respectively. Out of all 50 states, the Empire State has the most performing arts theaters per capita, while Nevada came in first for its number of state and local expenditures on parks and recreation.

The Top 20 Most Fun State in America

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The best states to visit in the USA

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updated 10.10.2023

You could spend a lifetime exploring the USA and still not see it all. The world’s third-most populous country offers every imaginable opportunity for travellers. When planning a trip, it helps to have a game plan. Here is our guide to the best states to visit while travelling in the United States. Don’t forget to apply for your ESTA USA on time: this travel authorization is compulsory to enter the United States.

1. California — The Golden State and one of the best states in the USA

2. colorado — the centennial state, 3. massachusetts — the bay state, 4. wisconsin — the badger state, 5. utah — the beehive state, 6. louisiana — the bayou state, 7. wyoming — the cowboy state, 8. washington — the evergreen state, 9. hawaii — the aloha state, 10. new york — the empire state, 11. texas — the lone star state.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to the USA — your essential guide for travelling in the United States.

With rural villages, large cities, towering mountains, and ocean beaches — you can discover every bit of America within the borders of California . The Golden State offers travellers gorgeous views paired with some of the best year-round weather in the country.

What to do in California

Visit one of California's major cities. California has so many great cities to visit, it's far from possible to mention them all here. Take a stroll down the Santa Monica Boardwalk in Los Angeles, or enjoy the entertaining chaos of Sunset Blvd in Hollywood. Enjoy immaculate beaches in San Diego or visit the annual Comic-con. Take a cable car down the steep hills of San Francisco, or walk across the iconic Golden Gate bridge — and don't forget to sample the local sourdough.
Go on a road trip. For one of the best drives in the world, cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway. Drive the entire coastal stretch of this beautiful state, from Southern California to breathtaking Muir Woods. Or head inland to taste some of Earth’s finest wine in Napa Valley.
Visit one of California's many parks . Go to the south to see the vast sands of Death Valley national park and the distinct foliage of Joshua tree national park. Or head north to the mountain-rimmed Lake Tahoe and the jaw-dropping Yosemite national park. One of the most beautiful state parks in the USA - Emerald Bay State Park - is also worth your attention.

We've collected a list of the best beaches in California , don't forget to visit at least one of them while you are there.

Where to stay in California

Popular with LGBTQ+: Parker Guest House in San Francisco . This converted mansion is set amid beautiful gardens.
Best for lake views in Lake Tahoe: Lakeland Village at Heavenly . Charming wooden decor with its own private beach area.
Browse more accommodations in California.

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California — one of the best states in to visit in the USA © Bmstockstudio/Shutterstock

Progressive and increasingly multicultural, Colorado is one of the best states to visit in the USA. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty and liberal city centres, Colorado is not to be missed.

What to do in Colorado

Visit Denver — one of the fastest-growing cities in America. It's packed with cultural institutions such as the Denver Art Museum.
Take a dip in the natural hot springs . Colorado springs is known for being one of the best places to visit for those in need of a thermally-heated dip.
Go on outdoor adventures. Explore the hiking trails of Rocky mountain national park. Discover the ancient dwellings of Mesa Verde national park. Or find yourself in the towering sand of Great Sand Dunes National Park.
Ski in Aspen. When many think of Aspen, they think of some of the best skiing in the country — and for good reason. Beyond hitting the snow, Aspen also offers boutique shops and top-notch festivals.

Where to stay in Colorado

For a classy but family-friendly stay in Denver: the Oxford Hotel . This historic hotel is centrally located and offers stylish rooms.
For a romantic getaway in Aspen: St Moritz Lodge in Aspen . A short walk from downtown, and with a heated pool onsite.
Find even more places to stay in Colorado

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Rocky Mountain National Park outside Denver, Colorado © Dr. Alan Lipkin/Shutterstock

Although it's been over 400 years since the first settlers landed in Plymouth, Massachusett s, the state remains as integral to the fabric of American life as ever. In terms of historical significance, it's undoubtedly one of the best states to visit in the USA.

What to do in Massachusetts

Visit Boston, one of America’s oldest cities. Today it's a thriving and cutting-edge coastal metropolis. Go to a local sports bar to watch a Red Sox baseball game, and grab a beer from of the many renowned local craft breweries.
Explore the windswept coastal beauty of Cape Cod . This area is home to iconic island retreats such as Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Cape Cod offers an endless assortment of charming small towns such as Provincetown.
Enjoy the fall foliage . Many Americans flock to the east coast each year for a "leaf-peeping tour". The local trees turn brilliant colours in the autumn and are worth travelling to see.

Where to stay in Massachusetts

Best for couples: Land's End Inn in Provincetown . This turreted house is extravagantly decorated and many of the rooms have sweeping ocean views. A truly original and special place.
For luxury: Hotel Commonwealth in Boston . Old-world charm paired with modern decor makes this a top choice in Boston's luxury hotel scene.
Check out more places to stay in Massachusetts

Ready for your trip to the United States? Don't miss our guide to the 20 foods you absolutely must try while in the US .

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Cape Cod, a great place to visit in the USA © J.A. Johnson/Shutterstock

To truly 'get' the USA, you must experience all of its regions. And while the Midwest isn’t high on most international traveller’s agendas, it's as essential to understanding America as New York City or Washington DC. Long known for cheese and beer, Wisconsin is about as American as you can get.

What to do in Wisconsin

Visit lake Michigan and Superior . Get out of the cities to enjoy a true slice of Americana by fly-fishing, hunting, or snowmobiling in small towns like Eagle River. Or, relax lakeside with a cold drink in hand at resort communities like Door County.
Visit Milwaukee — home of Harley-Davidson and Pabst Blue Ribbon. Take a tour of the city's many breweries. Or take the family on an exciting scavenger hunt through Milwaukee .
For a truly American experience, the Wisconsin State Fair. This family-friendly event offers an authentic taste of American agriculture.

Where to stay in Wisconsin

Best for city stays: Hyatt Regency Milwaukee . Comfortable and affordable room located right in the middle of downtown.
For beer lovers: The Brewhouse Inn & Suites . Located inside the Pabst Brewery, this hotel is any beer aficionado's dream.
Check out more great places to stay in Wisconsin

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Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin © F11photo/Shutterstock

What to do in Utah

Visit Salt Lake City. SLC is one of America’s more underrated mid-sized cities, boasting a booming contemporary food and drink scene paired with spectacular mountain scenery.
The Big Five. Near St. George, one can find five of the most spectacular national parks in the United States — including Zion National Park and Arches National Park. Here one can find some of the most iconic hiking trails in the entire country. From here, road trip south to Arizona to see the Grand canyon national park.
Go skiing. The gorgeous mountain town of Park City, located by Salt Lake City, is the state’s premier ski community. It also plays host to the star-studded Sundance Film Festival.

Where to stay in Utah

Best for family adventures in St George: St George: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel. A charming chain hotel with comfortable rooms, close to the national parks.
Best for city stays: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel at Temple Square . A comfortable and clean stay in Utah's Salt Lake City downtown area.
Find more places to stay in Utah

Zion National Park, one of the nation's most beautiful national parks © Calin Tatu/Shutterstock

No exploration of America is complete without a visit to the culture-packed American South, and the swamps of Louisiana are no exception. Visit the Bayou state for its distinctive offbeat charms and some of the finest food and drink in the country.

What to do in Lousiana

Enjoy Louisiana's distinctive, spicy Creole cuisine. Creole food is a rich blend of French, Spanish, African and Caribbean cuisine, mixed up with a host of other influences including Native American, Italian, and German.
Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans' French Quarter. The Crescent City brims with a sense of life and diverse culture that is impossible to replicate anywhere in the world. This is most famously (and flamboyantly) brought to life during Mardi Gras.
For a family day out: take a swamp tour. Watch out for alligators lurking in the ghostly, cypress-clogged bayou.

Where to stay in Louisiana

For celebrating Mardi Gras, The Royal Sonesta New Orleans. Located in the historic French Quarter on Bourbon Street, this is the best place to stay during the Fat Tuesday celebration.
Best for families in New Orleans: Hampton Inn Downtown/French Quarter Area . Spacious rooms in a central location.
Find more accommodation in Louisiana

Ready to take your dream trip to the United States? Our tailor-made trip service allows you to go on the trip of your dreams without any of the stress of planning and booking. Our trips are completely customisable and crafted by local travel experts. Our Cross Country USA trip takes you to San Francisco, Las Vegas, New Orleans and more.

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A paddle steamer on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, Lousiana © f11photo/Shutterstock

Pronghorn antelope all but outnumber people in wide-open Wyoming , the least populous state in the US. This is classic cowboy country — replete with dude ranches, rodeos and country music halls.

What to do in Wyoming

Discover the national parks . Grand Teton national park is known for its rugged mountains. Meanwhile, Yellowstone national park is the nation's oldest national park, and most popular. You won't want to miss this otherworldly site.
The city of Jackson. Crammed with boutiques, art galleries, old west bars, and excellent restaurants, Jackson is worth a visit. You won't want to miss the Jackson Hole Rodeo for a day of family-friendly western kitch.
Find fossils. Wyoming is known for being one of the "dinosaur hot spots" of the world. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center is a great place to see the state's findings.

The Rough Guides to USA and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Where to stay in Wyoming

For your Yellowstone adventure: Elk Horn Lodge . Cabins are centrally located in Cooke City, right outside of Yellowstone national park.
For your skiing adventure: Snow King Resort in Jackson . An affordable, family-friendly ski resort that is also lit for night skiing.
Check out even more accommodations in Wyoming

Grand Teton, Wyoming © Shutterstock

The pacific north-west is known for its rich natural beauty and heavy rain that sweeps in from the pacific. Smothered with dense forests of fir, cedar, and cypress, Washington really is the "evergreen state".

What to do in Washington

See jaw-dropping views. Take a drive through the Cascade loop. This series of highways pass pristine alpine lakes and snow-capped peaks. Or visit Mount Rainier national park, one of Washington's most visited tourist attractions.
Visit Seattle — known as the "Emerald City" and the home of grunge rock. Enjoy street entertainment and delicious seafood dinners at the lively Pike Place market. Or spend the afternoon at the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) — a funky and fun museum of music and more.
Ferry to the San Juan Islands. With charming towns, culinary treats and the chance to see the resident killer whales, the San Juan islands are one of the best places to visit.

Where to stay in Washington

For Seattle: Staypineapple . Hip boutique hotel with a bright, pop art theme located in downtown Seattle.
For San Juan Islands: Orcas Hotel. A vintage victorian Inn and the best place to stay in the San Juan islands. With cosy rooms and luxurious suites right on the water's edge.
Find more places to stay in Washington state.

Ready to explore the natural sites of the US? You won't want to miss our guide to the best places to embrace the great outdoors in the United States .

Autumn colors in Mt. Rainier National Park © Mike Peters/Shutterstock

With towering volcanoes, palm tree-lined beaches, and glorious cliffs — the Hawaiian islands are understandably a popular tourist destination. Despite its isolation, Hawaii boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and is one of the best states to visit in the USA.

What to do in Hawaii

Tropical beaches. Hawaii is known first and foremost for its beautiful beaches. Learn to surf at Waikiki Beach in Oahu, or sip a cocktail under the palm trees at Lumahai Beach, Kauai.
Explore the power of Hawaii's volcanoes by visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island. Specifically, a hike around Kilauea Caldra, the most impressive crater in the park.
Take a walk along the oceanfront streets of Lahaina, Maui. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina is one of Hawaii's prettiest communities.

Where to stay in Hawaii

For something with character: The Royal Hawaiian . This hotel, established in the 1920s, is one of Waikiki's best-loved landmarks. Affectionately known as the "Pink Palace" and located directly on the beach.
For a comfortable resort: King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel . Rooms at this veteran resort hotel are comfortable and feature picturesque views of the ocean.
See more accommodation in Hawaii.

Dreaming of hitting the beach? Check out our guide to the best beaches in the United States .

Beach Lava Boulders and Shipwreck view © JMT2064/Shutterstock

New York is home to America's most celebrated and most populous city. The words "New York" are bound to bring to mind soaring skyscrapers and congested streets. However, you won't want to miss the surrounding area of this state. New York remains one of the best states to visit in the USA.

What to do in New York

Visit New York City , one of the best cities in the US . There is no end to what there is to do in this iconic city. Take a stroll through Central Park. Visit one of the many world-class museums, such as the Metropolitan museum. Or take in the views from the top of the Empire State building.
Visit the massive Niagra Falls. Take the Made of Mist boat trip, or visit the Cave of the Winds and stand close enough to feel the spray from these majestic falls.
Visit the Adirondacks. This area is a vast and rugged alpine wilderness offering superb skiing, fishing and hiking trails. This is also a great place for mountain biking.

Where to stay in New York

For a hip hotel: The Jane in NYC . This hotel offers rooms inspired by ship cabins (as the building was originally in 1908 built to accommodate sailors.
For a stylish stay: Arlo Soho. Enjoy the comfortable rooms and sweeping views from this hotel's rooftop.
For more ideas on where to stay, don't miss our guide to the best areas to stay in New York City .

Ready to finally see New York City? Our tailor-made trip service allows you to travel without the stress of planning or booking. Our trips are completely customisable and crafted by local travel experts. Our East Coast Adventure trip takes you to New York City, Boston, Philly and more.

Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York © nyker/Shutterstock

When one thinks of America, they are sure to think of Texas . One of the largest states in the country and home to a great amount of geographical diversity. Culturally, the lone star state stands proudly apart from the rest of the USA.

What to do in Texas:

Spend time in San Antonio. History buffs will want to visit the Alamo, which lies smack in the centre of downtown. Art lovers will want to see the McNay Art Museum, with its striking collection and otherworldly architecture. Don't miss the San Antonio river walk for hip places to eat and shop.
Take a trip to Houston. Although a car is recommended when visiting, this vast city has a lot to offer. Don't miss the Space Center Houston or the Big Thicket National Preserve.
Get "weird" in Austin. Austin has a reputation for being different from its neighbouring cities. You'll find here a laidback, progressive city with a thriving arts community.

Where to stay in Texas:

For a trendy place to stay in Houston: Hotel Zaza . This hotel offers themed suites like the "Casablanca" wrapped around a sleek pool
For a swanky stay in Austin: The Driskill . Stay here for the opulent marble lobby or the classicly decorated rooms

The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Our list of great places to visit in the United States could truly keep going, but for now, we will leave you with our top 11 states. Ready to visit the USA? Check out the Rough Guide to the United States . Read more about the best time to go, the best places to visit and best things to do in the US .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to the US without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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These are the most fun states to visit in America in 2022: report

Wallethub found the most fun states based on entertainment, recreation and nightlife.

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If you’re looking for some fun this summer , you might want to think about visiting California.

That’s according to a recent report from WalletHub, which found the most fun states in America this year. California was at the top of the list.

For its report, WalletHub compared all 50 U.S. states based on their entertainment, recreation and nightlife.

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Aside from its overall ranking, WalletHub also found how states did within specific measurements.

For example, California, Florida, New York and Texas tied for the state with the most restaurants per capita , while Alaska was found to have the fewest restaurants per capita of all 50 states.

Michigan was found to have the most golf courses and country clubs per capita, while Alaska was found to have the least.

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However, Alaska was found to have the best access to national parks , while Illinois was found to have the worst.

California was found to be the most fun state in 2022, according to WalletHub. Sacramento, California, is pictured. (iStock / iStock)

WalletHub found that Maine had the highest variety of arts, entertainment and recreation establishments while four states – Alaska, West Virginia, Wyoming and California – tied for the state with the least.

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Meanwhile, Washington was found to have the highest personal expenditures on recreation services per capita and West Virginia was found to have the lowest.

To see the overall results, here are the most fun states to visit in the U.S. this year, according to WalletHub.

1. California

4. New York

5. Illinois

6. Colorado

7. Washington

9. Minnesota

10. Louisiana

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You’ll Have a Blast Visiting (or Living In) 2023’s Most Fun States

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Find out if your state is one of America’s most entertaining.

When you’re bogged down by life’s tedious tasks, you probably self-soothe by looking forward to an upcoming vacation . But when you’re packing for that interstate road trip, you may start to wonder if you’ve chosen the right destination. Is the music scene in Tennessee better than the jazz you’ll hear in Louisiana? Should you have selected New York’s nightlife over Floridian beaches? Thanks to WalletHub’s study on 2023’s most fun states , you can easily research the most entertaining locations for your next trip — or your next big move.

How does one determine who’s having the most fun, you ask? In WalletHub ’s case, experts evaluated all 50 states in terms of two categories: “entertainment and recreation” and “nightlife.” Under these umbrellas, Wallethub compared 26 metrics. Under recreation, experts surveyed important considerations like the number of restaurants, attractions, and movie theaters. Under nightlife, they evaluated aspects of the perfect night out — like beer and wine prices, music festivals per capita, and time of last call at bars.

If your favorite state is low on the list, don’t take the placement too personally, though. WalletHub considered factors that you may not care about at all — like the number of skiing facilities per capita or the number of casinos. If you hate gambling or prefer drinking hot chocolate to hitting the slopes, you probably wouldn’t include these factors in your own survey. The concept of “fun” is subjective and can’t be determined once and for all.

Plus, while fun is a big part of life, you may value spending time in the safest locations , versus the most traditionally entertaining. Or you might prioritize factors like home prices or healthy aging if you’re planning on a later-in-life move. After all, home is where your heart is — regardless of the number of music festivals local to you.

Source: WalletHub

Most Fun States in the U.S.

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These Ten States Have The Most Fun, According To Forbes

Wondering which states supposedly have the most fun? According to Forbes, these are the most thrilling places one can visit in the U.S.

Ranking as one of the most popular countries in the world, the United States is a place filled with fun activities and fun-loving people and even though all states offer some excitement in one way or the other, these states have the most fun so travelers can embark on an adventure to get their share of the fun.

10 Minnesota

The Midwestern state of Minnesota is often referred to as the land of 10,000 lakes as the state is said to consist of over 14,000 lakes . With this, lots of scenic views are available for viewing. Travelers in Minnesota can get on the superior hiking trail to enjoy views of the beautiful Lake Superior or get on a scenic drive to enjoy scenic views of the North Shore of the lake. Minnesota features historic sites such as – James J. Hill House and Minnesota State Capitol Building and the International Wolf Center which offers travelers an intensive look into the behavior of wolves. The center acts as an educational research facility that is dedicated to the protection and preservation of the wolf population from further decrease.

9 Pennsylvania

The Keystone state is famous for its historical role in the founding of the United States. The state consists of charming natural sites , interesting art museums, and several national and state parks. Pennsylvania offers an intensive study atmosphere at the Valley Forge National Historical Park and an exploration of the Bicycle Heaven which is the biggest bicycle museum in the world.

The state also offers curious travelers the opportunity to visit a town called - Intercourse in Lancaster County, to find out why the community was given such an unusual name. Intercourse features an old-timey atmosphere and travelers will love the community as they can take pictures with the town’s hilarious road signs and also tell about the town to their curious listeners.

The state of Illinois is a place of diverse culture and sports and Chicago – the state’s largest city is particularly famous for its love for sports which is why the city is home to famous clubs such as; Chicago Cubs – Baseball, Chicago Blackhawks – Ice hockey, and Chicago Bulls – Basketball.

Chicago features plenty of sports events, Parks, Gardens, scenic and historic sites, and museums that contain historic information about the United States and the state of Illinois. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and museum located in Springfield even offers the most comprehensive history about the 16th president of the United States who spent a large amount of his life in Illinois.

The South Central state of Texas is famous for its beaches, hot weather, and barbecues. Enjoy an amazing experience in Houston with the city’s museums, parks, vibrant nightlife, and then visit a restaurant to enjoy the unique and diverse dishes of Texas. Enjoy an island experience at South Padre Island - the longest barrier island in the world which features views of beautiful birds, and sea creatures, and delicious seafood as well as water activities such as kayaking, boating, and excellent fishing. With the historic sites, entertaining bird watching experience, desert trails, natural springs, and marine life, Texas has so much to keep visitors excited at all times.

6 Washington

The state named after the first president of the United States offers travelers a fun time indeed with its islands, snow-capped mountains, and volcanoes. The wildlife, beautiful waterfalls, museums, scenic national parks, and hiking trails also make up the list of things to enjoy in the evergreen state of Washington. The state is also known to be the largest producer of apples in the United States and other agricultural products such as Potatoes and tomatoes and this means visitors have lots of food tours to enjoy.

Related: How To Hike Palouse Falls, The Official Waterfall Of Washington

Colorado is most famous for its amazing landscape which consists of dense forest, tall mountains, large canyons, and scenic rivers. A true adventurer’s paradise, the state also features some of the most amazing ski resorts in the United States such as – Vail ski resort and Telluride ski resort that offer the perfect stages for snowboarding, skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and all the exciting winter activities adventurers love. Furthermore, Colorado is not just called an adventurer’s paradise because of the ski resorts. It also features excellent trails across majestic mountains and enchanting lakes, lots of hot springs, wildlife, water activities, and plenty of gorgeous natural views.

Enjoy a wild adventure in the gold state of Nevada which is famous for being a perfect ground for lovers of casinos and gambling. In fact, the state has been named the gambling capital of the United States and the first or second most popular gambling city in the world. The state features scenic drives, waterfalls, national and state parks , museums, amusement parks, relaxing beaches, and lots of hot springs to give visitors adventurers an adventurous experience. Nightlife in Nevada is also considered vibrant with endless parties and loud gambling excitement. During nighttime in the famous city of Las Vegas, streets are lit with beautiful lights, crowds flock into the strip, gambling centers explode with loud noises, and the rich folks head over to extravagant resorts to spend all their excess cash on some pleasure.

Related: Forget The Las Vegas Strip, Nevada Has A Lot More To Offer

Skyscrapers, busy streets, and historic sites are some of the characteristics of the east coast state which hosts the world’s leading financial center . New York City – the state’s most famous city, features a culturally-diverse population and this diversity has created lots of amazing things such as – unique dishes, world-class art, different forms of entertainment, and different interesting methods of communication. The 843-acre Central Park in New York City is a perfect place for those who love colorful garden views, while the 102-Storey Empire State Building is a great place to get an impressive view of the sky. Those yearning for some entertainment and historical sites have the Rockefeller Center and the inspiring 46 meters tall Statue of Liberty.

2 California

The West Coast state of California is indeed an enchanting paradise and just like Odyssey got detained in Ogygia , for seven years by the goddess - Calypso, vacationers who visit California might fall into the same trap of sweetness and forget time. Besides its beaches, vineyards, and parks, California is also famous for hosting the historic Golden gate bridge, the thrilling Hollywood, and the exciting Disneyland.

The abundance of wine, and interesting sites such as – Giant Redwoods, Big Sur , and the Death Valley, are just enough to attract people from all over the country thereby creating the most populous state in the Country.

Related: These Are California's Best Beaches, According To Your Favorite Beach Activity

Florida is famous for its beautiful beaches and seaside atmosphere. Located in the Southwestern region of the United States, it is the only state that borders the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Florida’s 1,350 miles of coastline also makes it the state with the longest coastline in the contiguous United States. With the numerous beaches and its all-year warm temperature , the state of Florida offers a fun and enjoyable seaside adventure. With its delicious seafood, historic and artistic museums, national parks & state parks, exciting nightlife, amazing marine life, Florida is a place of intense fun.

Next: Breakfast Is The Most Important Meal Of The Day And These U.S. States Are Serving It The Best

Top 24 US States To Visit In 2024

If you are looking for some travel inspiration, here are 24 states to visit in 2024!

With 50 states covering over 3.7 million square miles, the United States is a huge country ( it’s crazy to think that the entire continent of Europe is only slightly larger than America ).

I could spend a lifetime exploring the United States (scratch that, I could spend a lifetime exploring Texas alone – how is it possible for a state to be so big?).

And the more time I spend here, my bucket list grows. From driving along the Pacific Coast Highway to grabbing a deep-dish pizza in Chicago, there are a million things to do (and fifty states to visit).

This list has become a staple on Passport To Eden . I update it every year, reflecting on the states I’ve visited and want to visit. While it’s daunting to whittle down the United States to a simple list of states, I’m a little relieved that, year after year, I get to add to this post instead of subtracting.

After all, the U.S. is filled with everything from breathtaking small towns to crazy party spots . It’s a place with diverse landscapes and bustling cities. No two states in the U.S. are the same; each is filled with hidden gems and a nuanced food culture.

Side Note: This is the second year that Hawaii is not on our list of states to visit! While Hawaii is still objectively one of the most beautiful places in the United States, the Aloha State is sadly suffering from overtourism. You can read about it here . I also recommend this article by Mariah Rigg .

Without further ado, here are the top 24 states to visit in 2024 (in no particular order).

Disclosure: Heads up, this post contains affiliate links, which means Passport To Eden may get a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you make an online purchase. Don’t feel pressured to buy anything. We still love that you’re here, reading our content (side note: we suggest getting a coffee or tea first because our blog posts tend to be long). You can read our full affiliate disclosure here to find out more.

Table of Contents

Cowboy Museum in Oklahoma City in Oklahoma entrance

Oklahoma is one of the most underrated states to visit in the USA.

I fell in love after spending a month exploring a few small towns in southern Oklahoma a few years ago ( and later obsessively visiting OKC ). I fell in love with the leafy hiking trails, the quiet sunsets in the city , the detail-oriented museums , the street art , and the amazing coffee culture .

Oklahoma is seductive. It’s a state that’s constantly growing and evolving . And you can see that change in action.

P.S. Oklahoma is one of the cheapest states to visit in the USA . There are many budget-friendly hotels, free attractions, and dives if you want a weekend getaway that won’t break the bank.

Having lived in Virginia for almost a decade, I can say with 100% confidence that Virginia is one of the prettiest states to visit in the U.S. ( especially in the summer, fall, and spring ).

Virginia is a unique state because it feels Northeastern even though ( according to U.S. Census designation ) it’s Southern . It’s a mix of hustle and bustle and bucolic scenes.

Tall tree-lined roads plus rolling hills equal the perfect gateway to the United States.

If you only have a few days in the area, explore the DMV ( DC-Maryland-Virginia ) highlights first. Add Colonial Williamsburg to your itinerary . And squeeze in a day trip or two ( if you’re visiting in the fall, Shenandoah is a must ).

California is a huge tourist magnet ( for local adventurers and roadtrip goers alike ). With almost 270 million tourists flocking to California each year, The Golden State is a travel hotspot. And for good reason.

Home to iconic sites like the Hollywood Sign and Golden Gate Bridge (and one-of-a-kind natural areas like Yosemite and Joshua Tree ), California makes it onto this list of the top 24 states to visit in 2024 with a bang.

Between lively cities (Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco) and quirky small towns ( Solvang , Mendocino, Carmel-by-the-Sea) , you won’t be hard-pressed to find things to do in California!

Iconic cabin in Wyoming, one of the top states to visit in the USA

Wyoming highlights include Grand Teton Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Black Hills . Enough said.

It’s one of the top states to visit if you are searching for a place to relax, unplug, and unwind . Wyoming is a refreshing destination that lets you get in tune with nature ( while maintaining easy access to modern conveniences ).

Y’all know I love Texas. I spend half my time on Passport to Eden talking about Texas.

I started this blog to document Texas attractions because when I first moved to Texas, I thought there weren’t that many. How wrong I was.

Texas is a Sasquatch-sized state . It’s known for its unique food , music venues, small towns , and Southern hospitality .

My favorite areas are San Antonio , Hill Country ( all of it ), Palo Duro Canyon , El Paso , and Dallas .

Florida is one of the craziest states to visit in the United States. It’s a whirlwind area known for its beaches, theme parks, and nightlife scene ( mojitos, anyone? ).

From Universal Studios to Key West, there are so many things to do in Florida your head will be spinning after your first trip ( especially once you realize how many miles you walked at Magic Kingdom ).

My favorite city (and solo travel destination) in Florida is, hands-down, St.Augustine . It’s more of a small town, and although it’s touristy, I loved that it felt like a history museum.

Nevada is known for Las Vegas , but this state is much more than that. From the Valley of Fire to Mt. Charleston , nature lovers will get a kick out of all the outdoorsy things to do here.

It’s a sparse state, but so worth visiting! And if you’re looking for a quick day trip from Las Vegas, add the Hoover Dam to your Nevada road trip itinerary.

The Grand Canyon is a big ( over 1000 miles big ) reason to visit Arizona.

There are several others, too: Mission San Xavier del Bac, the Desert Botanical Garden, and the Sonoran Desert.

And with offbeat spa retreats ( Scottsdale ), lux resorts (Sedona), and camping spots (Flagstaff), this is the perfect state to visit on any budget.

2023 brought one of the biggest changes in my life: I spent my first year living in Tennessee! I’m so excited to continue filling up the blog with Tennessee guides, as this is one of my favorite states to visit in the U.S.

If you are a music fan, you will fall in love with Tennessee. From country ( Nashville ) to blues ( Memphis ), Tennessee dips its toes in all styles of music.

Start your tour in Memphis at Sun Studio and trek (via car) toward the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville . Throw in a few day trips to cute-as-a-button towns like Collierville and Gatlinburg, and you’re in for a treat.

Crystal Bridges First Image to give a taste of the highlight of Bentonville

Another one of my favorite states to visit in the United States is Arkansas .

Arkansas has this effortless, natural beauty ( which is probably why it’s called the natural state – good job, Anshula ). Home of mountain towns like Eureka Springs and world-class art collections like Crystal Bridges , the Ozarks are a great starting point on your Arkansas road trip.

Snake towards Hot Springs before heading to the capital (and later North Little Rock).

There’s plenty to do in Illinois beyond Chicago ( though I could spend a year in Chicago and still not see everything ).

But if you only have one day in the state (and are situated in the Windy City), hit up all the touristy highlights: Cloud Gate, Skydeck, and Navy Pier.

Or take a day trip to Galena . You won’t regret it.

Ohio has some of the best art museums in the United States , making it a top destination for culture travelers.

Beyond art, Ohio is known for its lush trails, rolling hills, and gardens.

But honestly, I’m still not over how many museums Ohio has.

There’s a toy and plastic brick museum, and there’s even a museum dedicated to showcasing divine statues. And if you’re looking for something offbeat, head down to the National Barber Museum in Winchester .

A few winters ago, I headed to Nebraska ( specifically Omaha ).

That trip was brought on by reading one too many Rainbow Rowell books ( she’s a local Omaha author ).

I toured some of the spots mentioned in her books and sampled all the cute coffee shops and eateries in the area .

Omaha is one of the cheapest states to visit in the United States . I was shocked by the prices of attractions and accommodations in the area ( you can find a swish private AirBnB here for under $50, which is unheard of in the U.S. ).

Vermonters will happily tell you that Vermont is the prettiest state in the U.S., and anyone who has been to Vermont will have a tough time disagreeing. Vermont is beautiful. The rolling mountains, glistening lakes, and red barns create a postcard-perfect appeal. And the noticeable lack of billboards adds to Vermont’s small-town charms .

I visited Vermont before spring fully set in and was told to return in autumn . “You haven’t lived until you’ve seen Vermont in the fall,” Vermonters said. Who am I to argue with the experts?

French Quarter in Lousiana, once of the most iconic states to visit

After exploring Northern Louisiana a few years ago ( guides still yet to come ), I’m pumped to explore Southern Louisiana next year!

Louisiana is a lively state. Think upbeat music, beignets ( more beignets ), and quirky bookstores ( but seriously, why are Louisiana bookstores so cute? )

I’ve been told that the best place to start exploring Louisiana is New Orleans . I’ll spend three days there in spring ( followed by a week in the surrounding area ), so if you have any recommendations, let me know.

Santa Fe to Taos road trip featured image

New Mexico is like its own little country . The landscape vastly differs from anything you’ll encounter in the rest of the contiguous states.

With mysterious churches, fine art galleries, hot air balloons , and food that is too good for words , New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment for a reason.

And as much as I enjoyed the bigger cities ( Santa Fe , Albuquerque ), I fell in love with some of the more remote parts of this state earlier this year!

Massachusetts

Massachusetts is one of the best states in the U.S. for book lovers to visit. With Walden Pond, the Boston Public Library, and Louisa May Alcott’s home, Massachusetts is a literary haven .

Spend a weekend in Boston , visit Salem during Halloween, enjoy a beach day at Crane Beach , and hop on a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard .

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a state I haven’t explored as much as I would have liked to.

I’ve only been to Philadelphia ( and Hershey on a field trip in seventh grade ). But with hamlets like Jim Thorpe and Strasburg , Pennsylvania knows how to sketch quaint and modern.

I just want to say that I love how historic this state is. If you’re planning an East Coast road trip to explore early America, you need to add Philadelphia to your bucket list!

If I could spend an entire month exploring all the best small towns in Washington, I would.

From Forks to Walla Walla to Leavenworth , many places in Washington are undeniably gorgeous ( especially in the spring and summertime ).

And Washington is still a hidden gem for the most part. I always thought the state was all about Seattle ( shame on me ) until I started researching for my trip there (my friend moved to east Washington last year, and I really want to catch up with her).

This is why New York is one of the top states to visit in the USA: iconic building

There isn’t a state I love more than New York. Like many people ( I’m such a cliche ), New York is my absolute favorite state in the United States.

It’s one of the best states for solo travelers and couples and families – there’s something here for everybody. My mum was an NYC local for a bit, so I got a chance to explore Manhattan a little while growing up.

But it wasn’t until last year that I left the NYC bubble. Sleepy Hollow caught my heart. And many more beautiful places exist in central and upstate New York.

Connecticut

Connecticut took me by surprise last year. I didn’t anticipate falling in love with this state as much as I did, but here we are. I was taken aback by how nice people in Connecticut were, especially in the small towns . I did stay away from Connecticut’s rich and snobbish neighborhoods, but I still wasn’t expecting to start a conversation with so many random people. Connecticut gets a bad rap for being unfriendly, but that was not my experience .

Connecticut is quintessential New England charm . Go for the charming bed and breakfast retreats, historic villages, white picket fence farms, underrated pizza scene, fresh seafood , and Gilmore Girls atmosphere (though filmed elsewhere, Washington Depot inspired Stars Hollow).

Oregon is one of the most breathtaking states in the United States. With Crater Lake, winding rivers, and a spectacular coastline , it’s easy to see why Oregon is so well-loved amongst Passport To Eden readers (y’all have convinced me I need to move Oregon to the top of my bucket list for the world’s largest bookstore alone).

I initially visited Kentucky on a day trip from Nashville and fell in love with its woodsy thickets and cavernous landscapes.

Caves are a big reason to visit Kentucky ( as the saying goes, it’s not what’s outside but what’s inside that matters ). Caves are why I keep visiting this state ( seriously, it’s an addiction at this point ). This is also one of the best states to visit for hiking, scenic drives ( there are so many cute barns ), bluegrass music, and bourbon tastings .

South Dakota

In 2023, I’m hoping to head further north to South Dakota ( hopefully. fingers crossed ).

Between the Badlands and Mount Rushmore , I need no more convincing that South Dakota is one of the top states to visit in the USA.

From limestone churches to cafes with stunning views , there’s plenty to do in Sioux Falls alone. But with towns like Lead ( the site of the mining museum looks like something straight out of a movie ) and cities like Spearfish, I wish I could snap my fingers and magically transport myself there right now.

But then again, I’d love to do that for all these states.

Did you enjoy this post on the top states to visit in the United States? What are your favorite states to visit? Let me know in the comments below what you’d like to add to this list!

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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14 comments.

I’d really like to go to Montana in 2020 but Oklahoma looks stunning too! :]

Oh, Montana is one of the prettiest states to visit (I have no idea why I didn’t include it on this list – it should be number one)! I hope you get a chance to visit (it’s gorgeous)! xx – Anshula

Such great suggestions! I’ve got to see more of the US.

Thank you so much Lyla! xx – Anshula

One of the best ways to get information about a state and/or region is to request a visitor’s guide from the State Department of Tourism or Chamber of Commerce. They typically will send you a book about the state, broken down by regions, often including a state map and a calendar of events by season. You have New Mexico on your list for 2020. I went to college in Portales, NM! It is another state that lives up to its slogan, Land of Enchantment. There are some wonderful things to do in New Mexico. I highly recommend taking the time to go through Roswell to the blink-and-you-miss-it village of Lincoln. There is so much history! They have the most interesting cemetery with headstones dating back to the early to mid 1800s. I was pledging to a service fraternity, and we spent an entire weekend there cleaning the cemetery and other parts of the community. There’s an outhouse behind the post office/ community services building. We would have to walk out past that building to “go” whether it was day or night. It just so happens that the boardwalk around the building is the very place where Billy the Kid was gunned down! You can find history such as this throughout NM. I am a Native Daughter of Idaho and I have to say that it is one of the hidden gems of the United States! People who don’t know what we have to offer tend to make jokes about the potatoes but we are oh, so much more! Did you know that the Star Garnet is found in only 2 places in the world? India and the Idaho Panhandle! Idaho has so much land that if you could flatten the mountains in Idaho, you could fit the State of Texas inside the State of Idaho! Idaho has 4 distinct seasons. North Idaho is lush and green while much of South Idaho is a high desert. We have some of the best skiing in the country. Celebrities have homes all around the state. Vin Diesel is from a city in eastern Idaho. Eric Estrada is a reserve police officer in St. Anthony. Cataldo Mission is the oldest building in the state, built in 1848. Ruts from the Oregon Trail are still visible in southern Idaho. Oh, I could go on and on! If anyone wants more information from me, you can email me: [email protected] .

Hi Karma, thank you so much for sharing all of this information! I spent a month in New Mexico last year (but I definitely need more time there). I had no idea there was so much history in Lincoln (I only stopped by long enough to see the San Juan Mission). Oh, I’m definitely adding Idaho to my list of places to visit this year! I had no idea that North Idaho and South Idaho had different landscapes – how cool. Thank you so much for stopping by! xx – Anshula

Oh! One more thing to add about New Mexico! Portales is one of the peanut growing capitals in the country. Each year, in October, the Peanut Valley Festival is held to signify the end of the growing season. The fair grounds fill with artisans from around the region, food vendors, chatter and high spirits from the community, and the intoxicating smells of freshly dug peanuts being roasted at the local peanut factory.

Ooooh! I was planning on visiting New Mexico in October to see the hot air balloon festival anyway. Will definitely be accounting for this suggestion! xx – Anshula

Hey There. I found your blog using msn. That is a very neatly written article. I will make sure to bookmark it and return to learn more of your helpful information. Thank you for the post. I’ll certainly comeback.

Great article. The US is indeed large with lots of nice places and destinations. I’m planning to visit Oklahoma soon and am glad I found this article. Thanks and keep posting

Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy your trip. I haven’t been posting for a bit but hopefully I’ll swing back into blogging soon 😊

Having read this I thought it was very informative. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to put this article together. I once again find myself spending way to much time both reading and commenting. But so what, it was still worth it!

Oh my goodness, I love your list! Having driven to most (but not all) of them, I agree with much of what you wrote. I’ve actually even lived in 5 of those states!

Headed to San Antonio next month and Florida in the spring- Happy wandering!

Thank you. That’s amazing that you’ve lived in five of these states! Hope you enjoy San Antonio (it’s one of my favorite cities in Texas). And warm wishes for your trip to Florida. 😊 xx – Anshula

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Clear water of Lake Tahoe California in summer with snowcapped mountains in the background--one of the best places to visit in the USA bucket list

USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US

From snowcapped mountains to tropical beaches, from some of the world’s most iconic cities to some of its most incredible deserts, from the east coast to the west, one thing is incredibly certain: there is absolutely no shortage of awe-inspiring, utterly diverse, and incredibly beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Our home country boasts one of the most incredible national park systems on the planet, along with a huge variety of cities, small towns, and other gorgeous places that ensure that a lifetime would not be long enough to see all of the best travel destinations in the USA.

… But that won’t stop us from trying to enjoy as many of the most amazing vacations in the United States as we can.

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to put together this giant USA bucket list, and definitely added a few new spots to our personal list of places to see in the US in the process!

From coast to coast, city to countryside, here are the best places to visit in the USA.

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

National parks + other beautiful places for a us vacation, beaches + islands for your usa bucket list, other beautiful places in the usa to visit.

antelope canyon in arizona with a beam of light streaming into the canyon

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New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

New York is one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the United States and even the world.

It truly is a city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives even if it’s just for a quick weekend in NYC !

The tall buildings are mesmerizing and awe-inspiring, it’s home to some of the most exquisite museums and galleries in the world, and New York City is brimming with so much to explore and see.

Plus, NYC is a foodie’s heaven with cuisines from all over the world.

… And, these are only a few of the many reasons to visit this magnificent city.

kate storm standing at a magnifying glass on liberty island overlooking financial district manhattan

Some bucket-list-worthy things to do in New York City are to watch a play on Broadway, see the Statue of Liberty, hang out in Time Square, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and take a stroll around Central Park.

A few museums to visit are the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Guggenheim, and the American Museum of Natural History.

Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 5th Avenue, Empire State Building, and Chelsea Market are must-sees as well.

Whatever you decide to do in New York City , you’re in for a real treat!

This city will leave you feeling inspired and you’ll want to book another trip to come back!

kate storm spinning in front of manhattan bridge in brooklyn, a must see duing 4 days in nyc

Miami, Florida

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

Vibrant and colorful Miami is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the US.

The downtown area merges into wonderfully diverse neighborhoods from Little Havana to Coral Gables.

However, most visitors to the vibrant yet laid-back city head to its beaches located on a long stretch of a barrier island.

South Beach especially is where the glamor’s at, topped by stylish Ocean Drive, which is lined with elegant Art Deco houses including Versace’s mansion, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs… the scene is pretty lively there.

Kate in a pink dress next to a blue Vespa on Ocean Avenue.

The beach itself features uniquely colored watchtowers spread around nice light sand. The waves are mostly mild. Pelicans like it here too and often float on the water near people.

Watching a sunrise on the beach belongs to one of the best experiences one can have in the area.

Miami City and its beaches can easily be visited even without a car .

The public transport network and the ample ride/bike-sharing services make it an easy destination for any type of traveler.

Blue and yellor art deco lifeguard stand on South Beach in Miami, which is a must-see beach for your USA bucket list!

San Diego, California

From Maria of San Diego Explorer

San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any USA bucket list.

Also known as America’s Finest City, San Diego has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts in San Diego , a fun time in the city, or a mix of both.

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego!

In Downtown San Diego, there is something for everyone: from eating delicious Italian fare in Little Italy to visiting the Midway Museum to strolling through Seaport Village, and having a fun night out in the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you love the outdoors and animals, visit Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.

cityscape of san diego california on a sunny day

And then, there are the beaches: San Diego has some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Some of the most popular ones are Mission Beach, Coronado, and the beaches in La Jolla.

You can relax on the sand, take surfing lessons, or ride your bike along the boardwalk for a fun day on the beach.

San Diego has so much to offer and is simply a fun city, no matter what you are in the mood for.

San Diego CA harbor with rows of sailboats in the foreground and the skyline in the back right of the photo

Austin, Texas

The Live Music Capital of the World and capital of the state of Texas is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and offers a fantastic combination of excellent nightlife, plenty of outdoor activities and day trip opportunities, and truly phenomenal food.

Don’t leave without having at least one giant meal each worth of TexMex and barbecue!

While in Austin, be sure to visit trendy South Congress Avenue, watch the bats fly out from under the South Congress Bridge (if you’re visiting at the right time of year, that is), see a show, and go for a hike (or if it’s too hot, hit the lake!).

Want to get out of town?

Austin is within an easy day trip of natural swimming holes, Texas’ wine country, and adorable small towns.

Austin TX skyline with the South Congress Bridge in the foreground

New Orleans, Louisiana

Good food, good music, and good times: of all the best places to visit in the USA, NOLA definitely ranks toward the top of the list for places to go to simply have an amazing time.

There’s far more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, Bourbon Street, and beignets, though.

With a dark and complex history heavily impacted by slavery and a constantly evolving modern culture, New Orleans deserves more than just partying during your visit–though there’s plenty of time for that, too.

While in New Orleans, be sure to listen to some jazz, learn a bit about the city’s history, visit the famous Jackson Square, head to the Garden District, check out the beautiful oak trees in City Park, and–this is very important–eat your heart out.

NOLA is indisputably home to some of the best food in the country–so good, in fact, that the food alone would be a good enough reason to add New Orleans to your USA bucket list.

For those interested in New Orleans’ spooky legends, a ghost tour through the French Quarter at night is also worth adding to your to-do list!

Street in NOLA French Quarter at night with neon lights from the bars lighting it up--don't miss a chance to experience the legendary New Orleans nightlife during your 3 days in NOLA itinerary!

Washington, DC

From Jordan of The Solo Life

One of the best travel destinations in the United States is the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

With everything from museums to monuments to the White House and Capitol Building, DC has something for everyone .

In addition, DC’s public transportation and numerous free attractions make it a surprising destination for the budget-friendly traveler.

Kid-friendly options include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery of Art or the Hirshhorn Museum for modern and contemporary art.

sunset on the national mall in washington dc facing the washington monument, one of the best places to visit on the east coast america

History buffs should check out the Library of Congress and the National Archives Museum.

Besides museums, the National Mall and Tidal Basin are must-visit locations to see the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, among others.

The best times to visit DC include early summer before it gets too hot or in the fall once summer break is over.

Although extremely crowded due to the Cherry Blossoms, springtime is also a gorgeous time to visit.

No matter what time of year, Washington, DC is one of the best destinations to visit in the US.

Washington Monument in Washington DC framed by cherry blossoms in the foreground. Washington DC is one of the best places to visit in the United States

San Francisco, California

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of bucket lists for the United States.

And, with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco!

Visiting the Muir Woods is an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area.

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco CA shot from above on a clear day

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia has been one of the coolest US cities to visit for centuries, and–like Boston–it features strong ties to the American Revolution.

This is where the Declaration of Independence and the Consitution were signed, touring Independence Hall and visiting the nearby Liberty Bell are among the best things to do in Philadelphia today as a result!

You can’t miss Philly’s food scene when visiting, either–from whoopie pies to Philly cheesesteaks, the city has a (literal) flavor all its own.

elfreths alley in philadelphia, one of the best places to vacation in usa

Start–but don’t finish–exploring Philadelphia’s food scene at the historic Reading Terminal Market.

Be sure to also make time to visit some of Philadelphia’s incredible museums during your visit, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution (we loved this one), and touring the dark but fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also home to another essential stop in this iconic East Coast City: the Rocky Steps.

And, if you’re willing to work up a sweat, definitely consider running up them yourself during your classic American vacation in Philadelphia!

independence hall in philadelphia on a sunny day with red and pink flowers in the foreground. attractions in usa things to do

Chicago, Illinois

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, and also one of the most ethnically diverse.

Its skyline reflecting off the waters of Lake Michigan is a sight to behold.

No matter what your interests are, whether it’s music, shopping, culture, art, or dining, you could spend months exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

On a shorter USA vacation, though, you can still see quite a few of the best sights in Chicago!

The city’s top museums include the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Don’t forget to check out the many outdoor sculptures and other public works of art around the Loop, either.

View of Chicago IL skyline from willis tower skydeck, a must-see during a 3 day Chicago vacation

A walk along the Magnificent Mile will take you past upscale department stores and through Millennium Park, home of the famous sculpture known as The Bean.

A visit to Bronzeville, also known as “the Black Metropolis”, is a must to learn about the city’s rich African-American history.

Architecture buffs will be interested to know that this is where Frank Lloyd Wright established the Prairie School architectural style. You can find some of his earliest buildings here in Chicago.

You’ll work up an appetite walking the streets of this massive city. This is a good thing, because the restaurant scene here is amazing!

You can find pretty much any cuisine you could imagine, from stylish Japanese to homestyle soul food, and there are even lots of vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Chicago .

Photo of Chicago train traveling on a bridge over car traffic--using Chicago's public transportation is the best way to get around on a Chicago weekend getaway!

Houston, Texas

From Thanh of The Traveling Asian

Houston, Texas is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States, and while an unexpected vacation option, certainly one that will impress.

After all, it is the 4th largest city in the USA and is often ranked as the most diverse city in the country!

Because of this size, you can expect there to be all kinds of things for you to see and do here in this city.

One of the most iconic places you must visit in the city is Space Center Houston.

There you can learn about NASA and space travel as well as take a tour around the famous mission control center. If you love space, then this place is for you.

sunset over houston texas skyline with pond in the foreground, one of the unexpected places for vacation in usa

Houston is also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which is the biggest rodeo of its kind in the country.

There, you’ll be able to eat some delicious rodeo foods, pet some livestock, learn about animals, play at the amusement park, and even watch a concert by famous celebrities.

But aside from the attractions, Houston is known for its food. Since it is the most diverse city in the country, you can find just about everything available here in this city.

For instance, you can find Tex-Mex, Chinese, Ethiopian, Greek, and many other ethnic cuisines available all around the area.

So if you love food and all things fun, then Houston is definitely the place for you.

Skyline of Houston Texas as seen on a sunny day with a park in the foreground, Houston is one of the best weekend getaways in Texas

Las Vegas, Nevada

From Kimberley of Two Travelling Toques

If you’re looking for a cool place to visit in the USA, you can’t get much cooler than Las Vegas .

This well-known city has been depicted in numerous movies such as The Hangover and Ocean’s Thirteen as party central.

And if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it in Vegas.

Long known as both the wedding capital for a quick place to get married, or the perfect spot to hold a bachelor or bachelorette party, either way, it’s the spot to bring your friends, let loose, and have fun!

Gambling has been a big draw to Las Vegas since the early 1930s, and there is no shortage of showy and extravagant casinos to choose from.

view of venice st marks square in las vegas, one of the best attractions long weekend in vegas getaway

Nightlife also takes center stage here.

From world-class musicians to top-notch magical acts, to dependable artists like Wayne Newton who have had a residency here for years.

During the day, you can grab a fancy drink and chill by the pool. Or hit up one of the pool parties and listen to the headlining DJ.

Either way, be sure to bring lots of money for the high-end shops, ever-flowing drinks, and dazzling casinos looking to draw you in.

Welcome to Las Vegas sign, one of the most popular weekend getaways in the USA

Savannah, Georgia

Without a doubt, the small but stunning city of Savannah, Georgia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Featuring absolutely stunning architecture, 22 of its original 24 town squares, endless oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and some of the best food in the country, spending a few days in Savannah is bound to be a delight.

While you’re there, be sure to meander down beautiful Jones Street, check out Forsyth Park, hear some of the city’s most enduring legends on a ghost tour, enjoy views from River Street, and take in some of Savannah’s complex history at its various house museums and houses of worship.

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to eat!

Kate Storm in a black dress in front of a brick home on Jones Street during a long weekend in Savannah GA

While there are dozens of incredible restaurants in Savannah , favorites include The Olde Pink House and The Grey for special occasions, The Collins Quarter for their legendary lavender mocha latte, and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream.

Have enough time for a quick day trip ?

Tybee Island –also known as “Savannah’s Beach”–is less than a 30-minute drive away, and while you certainly won’t want to swim in the summer, strolling along the sand and climbing the lighthouse are a treat.

Jones Street in Savannh GA with a green house in the left foreground and an oak tree on the right. Jones Street is one of the best Savannah photo spots

Los Angeles, California

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking for the coolest place to visit in the United States?

Visit Los Angeles; a unique combination of the entertainment industry, gorgeous beaches, great food, and vibrant nightlife.

It is certainly not the cheapest place in California , but for the right travelers, LA is definitely worth the price tag.

Los Angeles is a large city full of tourist attractions that won’t let you stay idle.

If you are a beach lover, LA won’t disappoint you with its stunning beaches that include Malibu, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, Hermosa Beach, and so on.

There are several fantastic museums in LA. LACMA is the most popular one for its diverse art collections and special exhibits.

Skyline of Los Angeles CA with palm trees in the forground, one of the best places to visit in the US

Some other renowned museums are the Grammy Museum, Natural History Museum, and Museum of Broken Relationships.

While visiting LA, you will notice entertainment at every corner of the city. You can see a concert or enjoy a ride at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

If you rent a car in Los Angeles, go for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway that carves through the mountains of Malibu.

Los Angeles has some of the best restaurants in the US.

Once you are done with LA sightseeing, have lunch at any of these food spots – Diakokuya for ramen, Langer’s for a pastrami sandwich, Guisados for tacos, or pizza at Mozza.

aerial view of santa monica beach near los angeles, one of the best places to vacation in the united states

Seattle, Washington

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the best USA travel destinations.

When visiting Seattle, be sure to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods?

Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside?

Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Seattle Waterfront with space needle visible through the ferris wheel

Charleston, South Carolina

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south.

Fantastic Lowcountry food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, and lots of history to uncover are wonderful to appreciate in both Charleston and Savannah –but Charleston absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

On your Charleston vacation, be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Garden, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

Photo of Rainbow Row in Charleston SC, a must see during a 3 day weekend in Charleston SC

If you’d like to do some shopping while in Charleston, King Street is the place to go.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach and/or Sullivan’s Island!

Kate Storm sitting in front of the pineapple fountain in Charleston SC--choosing whether to visit Savannah or Charleston is no easy task, but we wrote this guide to help!

Orlando, Florida

As the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is one of the most popular places to visit in the USA for both domestic and international visitors, mostly on behalf of one iconic mouse.

As home to Walt Disney World , Orlando is a must-see USA bucket list item for many families across the world, and with four amazing Disney parks packed with rides, experiences, and intense amounts of nostalgia, it’s no wonder why.

Disney isn’t the only theme park game in town, though!

Universal Studios Orlando, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is also a fantastic theme park to visit, and big roller coaster fans may even want to take a day trip to Tampa Bay to experience Busch Gardens.

Though the parks are a big draw for people visiting Orlando with kids and kids at heart alike, theme parks aren’t the only places to visit in and around Orlando.

The Kennedy Space Center, plenty of beaches, and even cool swimming holes like Wekiva Springs are within day-trip distance of Orlando.

Lake Eola Park in Orlando Florida with swams in the water and a skyline visible in the background. Orlando belongs on a bucket list for the United States

Portland, Oregon

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw.

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your USA bucket list!

Photo of steal sign stating "portland oregon" in front of a blue sky, a must-see during 3 days in portland or

Nashville, Tennessee

From Apryl of Southern Traveling Gal

No doubt about it, there’s something about Nashville, that casts a long-lasting spell on travelers.

For travelers visiting Nashville, it’s not unheard of to plan a return trip as soon as the current one is over!

Only in “The Music City” is it possible to catch the latest exhibit at the Frist Art Museum, see a replica of the Parthenon and enjoy live music at venues along the Honky Tonk Highway.

For first-timers, touring country music icons like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-do.

Don’t overlook artist-specific museums such as the Johnny Cash Museum and Glen Campbell Museum that provides a closer look at these music giants, either.

Much of Nashville’s allure lies within its distinctive neighborhoods, like the Gulch, filled with shops and restaurants.

Skyline of Nashville Tennessee at sunset overlooking the river, one of the most romantic getaways in the United States

It isn’t unusual to spot a long line or two here, typically featuring either people waiting in line to take a photo with the “What Lifts You” mural or getting into Biscuit Love.

Save some room for some barbecue from Peg Leg Porker!

12thSouth offers locally-owned boutiques, stores, and eateries. Also found here is Draper James, the flagship store of Reese Witherspoon’s clothing line.

Be sure to take home some cookies from Christie’s Cookie Company and snap a photo with the “I Believe in Nashville” mural.

Across the Cumberland River is the eclectic East Nashville. Don’t miss out on the mini doughnuts at Donut Distillery.

Depending on time, consider visiting Cheekwood Estates and Gardens, a 55-acre botanical garden, as part of your Nashville getaway.

Of course, no trip to Nashville is complete without hot chicken from Prince’s Hot Chicken or biscuits from Loveless Cafe, located near the Natchez Trace Parkway.

country band playing banjois in nashville tennessee

Boston, Massachusetts

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Boston is such a cool city to visit in the USA, rich in history, architecture, and food.

Along the waterfront, you can walk the 43-mile-long Harbor Walk.

But there is so much more to add to see during your trip to Boston, like the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path taking you to 16 significant places in American history.

It is well marked and technically be walked in as little as 90 minutes, though you can download the app and visit each place which will take at least a whole day to complete.

Boston is home to the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common, which is situated next to Boston Public Garden.

boston public garden in the summer, one of the best things to do in boston ma

You can wander the parks and enjoy a ride in the Boston Public Garden’s historic paddleboats.

Nearby, you’ll find the Boston Public Library at Copley Square, which is an incredibly beautiful Renaissance Revival structure from 1895 that you should visit.

You’ll also find the beautiful neighborhood of Beacon Hill nearby, as well as the trendy neighborhood of Back Bay.

For the best views of the city during your Boston itinerary , visit the Skywalk Observatory.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States and one of the best places to visit in the entire country.

Known for its geothermal activity, more than half of the earth’s geysers are located in the national park which straddles the borders of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.

Old Faithful is one of the most popular things to see in Yellowstone National Park .

The active and predictable geyser erupts approximately 20 times each day.

Visitors to the park gather around to watch the geyser blast hot water and steam into the sky.

Although quite impressive, Old Faithful is just one of many must-see geothermal features found in the park.

View of Grand Prism in Yellowstone National Park, one of the best places to visit in USA

One of the largest hot springs in the world, the Grand Prismatic Spring, is another popular attraction in Yellowstone.

Visitors can get an up-close view of the spring or take a short hike for a stunning overview of Grand Prismatic’s vibrant colors.

Beyond all of its geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park also boasts beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, rivers, and more than 200 species of animals.

Bison, deer, moose, wolves, and even bears live in the park.

Because of all the wildlife in Yellowstone, visitors are strongly encouraged to use caution when hiking or camping and to carry bear spray to protect themselves in the event of an encounter.

herd of bison crossing the road and causing a traffic jam in yellowstone national park, one of the best places to vacation usa

Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Idaho is often overlooked when it comes to cool places to visit in the US, but the tiny town of Stanley serves as the gateway to an abundance of outdoor adventures in the stunning Sawtooth Mountain range and along the swift Salmon River.

Although it has a population of less than 100, Stanley is easily accessible in a 3-hour drive from the main airport in Boise or about a 1-hour drive if you’re coming from Sun Valley.

The best way to explore the Sawtooth Mountains is on one of the many hiking trails.

The hike to Alice Lake is a perfect introduction to the area, and you can either do a 12-mile day hike or backpack the longer Alice/Toxaway Loop over the course of a few days.

sawtooth mountains idaho on sunny day with lake in the foreground, one of the best places to vacation usa

Whichever option you choose, you’ll discover gorgeous views of Alice Lake framed by the “Dragon’s Back” peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, including Idaho’s own “El Capitan.”

For fun on the water, you can go fishing along the Salmon River or swim in Redfish Lake.

When you need some rejuvenation after your adventures, you can reward yourself with great food and drinks at the Stanley Supper Club and take a dip in the hot springs at the Mountain Village Resort.

Once you head home, you’ll surely find yourself raving to your friends about this hidden gem of a mountain town – unless you want to keep the Sawtooth Mountains and Stanley a secret for yourself!

Sawtooth Mountains Idaho with a lake visible on the left of the photo and mountain peaks in the background. These mountains definitely belong on your USA bucket list!

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

The Oregon Coast is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the USA, but for those who love moody, dramatic scenery, it is the best place to be.

Although the actual coast isn’t very long (338 or so miles, about a 7.5-hour drive without stopping), it makes for a great weekend or longer trip with added stops.

Starting at the north end, about 2 hours outside of Portland, the city of Astoria will serve as your jumping-off point with picturesque bridges and locations from The Goonies.

Heading south, take a pitstop at the cheese capital of the state – Tillamook , Oregon.

One car driving along the oregon coast as shot from above

Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and gorge yourself on all things dairy before continuing on to stunning Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.

The highlight of the coast will be Yachats, Oregon, with incredible farm-to-table restaurants that are dedicated to sourcing local sustainable fish, meat, and produce providers.

On the southern end of the coast, you can find sand dunes in Florence, and natural rock arches among the cliffs in Brookings.

If your tolerance for rain is low, summer will be the best season to visit weather-wise, while winter and spring will have smaller crowds and lower prices.

Oregon Coast at sunset looking toward Haystack Rock, one of the prettiest places in Oregon

Acadia National Park, Maine

From Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the eastern United States, perfectly showcasing the beauty of the Maine coast.

Acadia has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as easy coastal access for kayaking and sailing.

When visiting, plan to spend at least 2 days in Acadia National Park so you can make the most of your time there.

One of the best things to do includes watching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, where you’ll get stunning views of the islands that dot the coast.

Drive Park Loop Road to enjoy some of the park’s most famous attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond (don’t forget to stop for popovers at Jordan Pond House!).

For hiking, choose a paved Carriage Road to take you down to one of the many picturesque ponds and lakes in the park.

Plan your visit in the fall to see the famous New England fall foliage in full display, or in the summer to enjoy long, sunny days perfect for hiking.

If you love the outdoors, add Acadia to your list of places to visit in the US – you won’t be disappointed.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

From Monica of This Rare Earth

Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California is an incredible destination in the United States.

This desert ecosystem became a national park as recently as 1994, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen!

The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert meet in the middle of Joshua Tree National Park, which means that you will see two very different landscapes depending on which half of the park you are in.

The Mojave Desert is home to the famous Joshua Tree – a tall and spindly yucca – as well as giant boulders popular with climbers and hikers.

The majority of the park’s hiking trails are found in this region.

desert landscape at sunrise in joshua tree national park, an excellent part of several of the best west coast road trips usa

However, while planning your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary , it would be a mistake to skip the Colorado Desert at the southern end of the park.

The Colorado Desert is hotter, lower in elevation, and flatter, but holds gorgeous landscapes full of cacti and, at the right time of year, wildflowers.

In the summer months, avoid strenuous hikes or leave early in the morning as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.

Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing and well outside the bright light of the city.

Joshua Tree is roughly 2.5 hours outside of Los Angeles.

Joshua Tree NP in California with a Joshua tree on the right side of the photo

From Chris of Called to Wander

Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, evoking adventure for those looking to travel to a truly unique place.

Because the state is massive, at over twice the size of Texas, you could spend as much or as little time exploring it as you have.

Many people take cruises through the Inside Passage and make stops in places like Ketchikan, Haines, and Seward.

Others fly into the main cities of Anchorage or Fairbanks and then rent vehicles and head off on their own adventures.

By far the best way to make the most of an Alaska vacation (though it requires a steep time commitment) is by driving to Alaska and spending as much time as you’d like wandering from one place to the next.

glacier in glacier np in alaska with water in the foreground and a mountain in the background

You can drive to the Arctic Ocean along the Dalton Highway, view North America’s largest mountain (Mt. Denali), or observe wildlife like caribou, grizzly bear, and moose.

Or, catch a flight out to a handful of the most remote national parks, or drive up to and hike out to massive, ancient glaciers.

If you enjoy fishing, go after halibut in Homer or salmon in the famous Russian River.

Regardless of what kind of travel you prefer, Alaska offers adventure for everyone and should definitely be on your travel bucket list!

Train along an Alaska mountainside with wildflowers in the foreground and a mountain in the background. Alaska is one of the most beautiful places in the us

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Dan of Cabin Critic

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in the US, hosting over 10 million annual visitors, and it definitely belongs on your bucket list for the USA.

Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, the park has diverse animal life, plants, and natural attractions. There are tons to do and see.

If you are feeling adventurous you can go zoom down zip lines, go white water rafting, or go mountain biking.

For a more relaxed trip, you can go on hikes, see beautiful waterfalls, or simply go for a scenic drive.

sunrise of great smoky mountains, one of the most beautiful national parks in the us

Cades Cove, for example, is a broad valley surrounded by mountains you can drive through that is well known for providing the best opportunities for seeing wildlife like white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and more.

When you aren’t enjoying the outdoors there are numerous mountain towns to enjoy like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Asheville .

Stay in one of the cabins with a view of the mountainsides and check out the local attractions like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville .

View of the Great Smoky Mountains during fall foliage season in the southern USA

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

From Michele of Adventures Abound

Just a 2-hour drive from both Portland and Seattle rest the foothills of the towering volcano Mount Rainier.

Known to the Indigenous since time immemorial, Mount Tahoma is covered in unimaginable beauty and can be enjoyed year-round.

Visit in the summertime for hiking through meadows strewn with wildflowers of every color, and in the fall for ripening berries and a better chance to catch the trails and lakes free of ice and snowmelt on a variety of great day hikes just outside of Seattle .

To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent in an established campground, stay in a rustic lodge in the national park, or backpack along the Wonderland trail that circumvents the park.

Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?

hiker in a field of wildflowers in mount rainier np with mount rainier visible in the background

Just driving through Mount Rainier National Park will afford endless views of waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and even the chance to spot wildlife.

For those thrill-seekers looking for a more challenging adventure, apply for a permit to climb more than 8,000 feet to the summit, but be aware this is only for experienced mountaineers.

Mount Rainier National Park can also be enjoyed in the winter when the park sees an average of 55 feet of snowfall or more.

Head to the Crystal Mountain gondola to catch a great view of the peak while skiing and snowboarding down the slopes, or pick one of many great locations to snowshoe and backcountry ski along the mountain.

Whatever the choice for season and activity, Mount Rainier National Park is sure to be full of memories and adventure in one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States.

Snowcapped Mount Rainier with wildflowers in the foreground, one of the most beautiful places in usa

Arches National Park, Utah

Home to over 2,000 naturally-occurring sandstone arches, Arches National Park in Utah is one of the most uniquely beautiful places in the USA.

Whether you’re hiking to the incredible Delicate Arch (so iconic that it’s featured on Utah’s license plates), wandering through the Devil’s Garden, or taking one of the shorter hikes to visit some of the most impressive arches in the park, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Even one day in Arches National Park is well worth your time, but more would certainly be better.

Arches National Park is also home to internationally-recognized dark skies and some of the best stargazing in the United States–in order to see the best of the park, be sure to visit at least once after dark!

And, while Arches National Park is easily one of the best places to vacation in the US in its own right, the nearby town of Moab also makes an excellent launching pad to visit Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.

Double Arch in Arches National Park Utah

Olympic National Park, Washington

From Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel

Not only does Olympic National Park cover nearly a million acres, but it is also the most biodiverse of all the US national parks.

It has it all, from glaciated mountains to breathtaking coastlines, crashing waterfalls, ancient rainforests, enchanting hot springs, and plentiful wildlife.

With such a treasure trove of natural landscapes, Olympic National Park is easily one of the best places to visit in the US.

Mountain lovers should budget plenty of time to hike the trails of Hurricane Ridge.

Here you will discover stunning views above the clouds, as well as an abundance of wildlife.

Rocky Beach in Olympic National Park washington at sunset, a fantastic view along a west coast usa road trip destination

A great way to explore the park is on foot, particularly as much of the park is roadless. There are numerous multi-day hikes to choose from and it’s popular with backpackers.

The 17.4 miles Hoh River Trail is one of the most impressive, taking you through a flourishing rainforest to the base of Mount Olympus.

For coastal visitors, Second Beach is one of the best Olympic Park photography locations and a perfect spot for sunset.

However, with 73 miles of wild coastline, there’s plenty to explore!

There are endless options for the waterfall, forest, and nature lovers too.

In Sol Duc forest you can watch crystal water plunge into the lush greenery.

Or, you can choose to explore the vibrant green mosses of the Hoh Rainforest.

No matter which part of Olympic National Park you visit, you will not be disappointed.

Forested trail in Olympic National Park with a river flowing across the photo. Olympic National Park definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Stretching over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon in northwest Arizona is one of the largest–and most impressive–canyons on the planet, and one of the most popular places to visit in the USA!

Come to Grand Canyon National Park to admire views from the rim, hike into the canyon , watch the sunrise and sunset, and perhaps even hike all the way down to the Colorado River.

If you do want to hike to the river, though, be warned: doing so is a 2-day commitment!

Anyone taking a southwest road trip in the USA should consider adding a visit to the majestic Grand Canyon to their list: it’s truly a sight that you’ll never forget.

View of the Grand Canyon from the south rim near sunset. The Grand Canyon is one of the best USA travel destinations

Death Valley National Park, California

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best places to visit in California is Death Valley National Park .

This park is filled with bright white salt flats, mountains splashed with pastel colors, and eerie rocks that move on their own.

This park is such a strange yet unique environment which makes it perfect for avid photographers.

One of the best things to do is to watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point. The views are glorious as the sun slowly sets on the unique colorful mountains.

Afterward, make sure to hike the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop Hike. The trailhead is right next to Zabriskie Point.

mesquite dunes in death valley national park during a pink sunrise

Another popular activity is visiting Badwater Basin. The basin stands at 282 feet below sea level and is filled with white salt.

This is a great spot to take pictures of the salt in contrast with the tall, dark mountains in the distance.

Nearby the salt flats, you can visit the devil’s golf course where spikey salt formations cover the ground.

The next outstanding area to visit is the Artists Drive. The mountain is sprinkled with pastel colors like yellow, pink, purple, and green.

It truly is a spectacular thing to see!

Rocky Mountain National Park

From Jyoti of Story At Every Corner

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in the US.

It’s also easily reachable from Denver, Colorado, which has many flights from across the country, making it fairly simple to access and one of the most popular places to vacation in America!

The best place to stay is in Estes Park , a quaint little tourist town in the mountains.

There are many small towns all around the park and many choices for all price points.

white and green shop in downtown estes park. shopping downtown is one of the best things to do in estes park colorado

The easiest way to visit RMNP park is by car.

You can then enjoy the park by making stops at each vista point and taking hikes from there.

Most stops have short and long hikes; easy and challenging hikes.

There is a hike for everyone, but there is also spectacular scenery right at the vista points, even without a hike.

Keep in mind that the popularity of Rocky Mountain National Park means that certain places, like Bear Lake Road, must be accessed via reservation.

Kate Storm standing in front of Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, one of the best places to visit in colorado

The most popular road that goes across the park is the scenic Trail Ridge Road.

If you don’t have time to visit anything else, I recommend driving Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park to the town of Grand Lake.

Other major attractions include Sprague Lake and Bear Lake, to the south of the trail ridge road.

They offer absolutely stunning views and many wildlife viewing opportunities along with the drives.

There is so much to do around Denver that RMNP can be part of a week-long itinerary visiting Colorado or a trip just for RMNP.

jeremy storm in a gray backpack hiking in rocky mountain national park

Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains along the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.

With crystal-clear water and plenty of activities in and out of the water, from hiking to SUP to swimming, there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the otherworldly beauty of Lake Tahoe .

To enjoy the views of the lake itself, summer is definitely the best time to visit–but winter has its charms, too, including plenty of skiing and incredible views of the lake framed by bright white snow.

From romantic couples’ retreats to fun getaways to Lake Tahoe with kids , all kinds of travelers will find something to love about Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe from above during the summer, one of the best USA travel destinations

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located on Havasupai tribal lands not far from the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is simultaneously one of the most famous waterfalls in the USA and one of the hardest to access.

In order to visit Havasu Falls, you’ll need to secure an extremely competitive permit (they sell out months in advance) and complete a 10-mile hike in each direction.

You’ll also need to spend the night nearby, as it’s one of the permit requirements set out by the Havasupai people.

If you manage to swing both the logistics and the hike, though, the rewards are pretty spectacular.

Havasu Falls in Arizona, one of the most beautiful places in USA. Turquoise waterfall with orange walls surrounding it

Zion National Park, Utah

Home to some of what are quite possibly the best hikes in the country, Utah’s most-visited national park is absolutely one of the best places to see in the US.

Test your fear of heights (if you have one, that is) by hiking the incredible Angel’s Landing, and be rewarded with stunning views of Zion Canyon.

Venture deep into the Virgin River by hiking The Narrows , a hike that takes place literally in the river!

Seek out incredible views along Observation Point, the Canyon Overlook Trail , and the Watchman Trail.

Try to score a permit to hike the Subway, but if you can’t get one, don’t worry: there’s more to see in Zion National Park than you can cover in one vacation.

No matter how you spend your days at Zion National Park, there’s no doubt that you’ll be experiencing something worthy of a bucket list!

Kate Storm at the viewpoint at the Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park Utah

Texas Bluebonnet Trail

California’s magnificent wildflowers may be a bit better known outside of the country, but Texas’ phenomenal spread of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes that decorate the countryside each spring absolutely belong on anyone’s USA bucket list.

Whether you choose to visit the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis (not far from Dallas) or head to the Texas Hill Country , there is no shortage of places to admire bluebonnets in Texas.

Though the blooming times can of course vary a bit depending on the weather, late March and early April are generally the best times to experience the beauty of Texas’ bluebonnets.

Wooden cart parked in a Texas field surrounded by bluebonnets. Beautiful countryside like this close by many of the best weekend getaways in Texas!

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

From Emily of Em’s on the Road

If you’re looking for unforgettable outdoor experiences without the price tag of popular destinations out west, then the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the place for you.

One reason the Upper Peninsula (or U.P.) is really unique is that it is an ideal place for adventure seekers all year long.

In the warmer months, the U.P is a great beach destination in the Midwest thanks to its location with beachfront on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron.

In the fall, pack your hiking boots and tackle rocky hiking trails for colorful views you’d never expect in the Midwest.

With an unobstructed panoramic view of Lake Superior, the hike up Sugar Loaf mountain in Marquette, Michigan is one of the most popular in the region.

Thanks to some serious snowfall, there’s so much to do in the U.P. in the winter months.

There are cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling trails, downhill skiing, dog sledding, ice climbing, and more.

View of Lake Superior with a rainbow over it during fall foliage season on Sugarloaf Mountain in Michigan

Redwood National Forest

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Most visitors to the Golden State put California’s national parks at the top of their itineraries because they are just so spectacular.

Redwood National and State Parks, in the northern part of the state, offer you the chance to stroll among giant redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees on the planet.

A group of five parks, Redwood National and State Parks feature not just the towering redwoods, but also epic coastal views, beautiful prairies filled with wildflowers in season, and the chance to see birds and wildlife.

Enjoy some of the scenic drives in the parks: Howland Hill Drive, Coastal Drive, and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway are all great choices.

Two people walking through a doorway in a fallen redwood tree in california usa

Do some of the trails through the redwood groves to see the giant trees up close: the Big Tree Wayside Walk, the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, and Lady Bird Johnson Grove are all super scenic and relatively easy walks.

Gaze up at the trees, and enjoy the ferns and rhododendrons in the understory.

You can also go biking in the parks, and camp if you plan to stay for a few days.

Redwood National and State Parks are about 5.5 hours north of San Francisco by road, and you can visit all year, although you will have the best weather in the summer.

Man standing in front of enormous Redwood trees with a sunflare in the top left corner of the photo

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

From Jase of Roaming Vegans

A little-known gem in the north of Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands.

This island archipelago on Lake Superior looks like it belongs in Southeast Asia – not on the shoreline of a humble midwestern town.

However, its tucked-away location makes it all the more special for visitors.

While the lake freezes in winter, the islands come to life in summer with many activities like sea kayaking , island hopping, and cliff jumping.

There is even an island home to one of the largest concentrations of bears in the Midwest–yes, bears!

The largest and most populated island is Madeline Island which makes for a great base to explore the nearby smaller islands.

sea caves as seen from the water at apostle islands, one of the best places to visit in the us

Maui, Hawaii

From Jessica of I’m Jess Traveling

Famed for her elegant beaches, world-class resorts , and next-level surf, Maui attracts visitors from all over the world.

It’s no surprise that Maui was named Condé Nast Traveler’s best island in the U.S. for 23 consecutive years.

There are countless things to see and do in Maui depending on your travel style.

For outdoor enthusiasts, hike through a majestic bamboo forest ending at a 400-foot waterfall.

Ocean lovers can test their skills at surfing or set sail on a sunset cruise.

Bright blue water as seen along the Road to Hana in Maui, one of the best USA road trip itinerary ideas

There won’t be a shortage of exotic beaches to explore, no matter what your travel style is.

The adventure seekers have their pick among plunging the popular Road to Hana or watching the sunrise above the clouds at 10,000 feet inside Haleakala National Park.

Whatever your draw, sunsets, beaches, luxury, or adventure, Maui has it all.

Not only is Maui one of the best USA travel destinations but it’s one of the best places to take a tropical vacation in the world.

Couple walking along Kaanapali Beach in Maui, shaded by a palm tree. Kaanapali Beach is one of the best beaches in America

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For adorable beach towns, sandy beaches, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever eaten in your life, head to the classic New England summer getaway of Cape Cod.

While you’re in Cape Cod (or as New Englanders say, “on the Cape”), hit one of the beautiful trails, visit a lighthouse or two, stick your toes in the sand, and eat lots and lots of lobster.

While Cape Cod’s swimming season is much shorter than popular beach destinations elsewhere in the country, it’s still well worth visiting.

Just be sure to plan ahead, because rental houses for summer on the Cape tend to book up before winter even wraps up!

Provincetown Massachusetts on Cape Cod as seen from the water

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

Towering cliffs covered in dense jungle, dramatic waterfalls, small valleys, and views of the Pacific Ocean far below: welcome to the Nā Pali Coast.

Without a doubt, the Nā Pali Coast on Kauai is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the US.

Stretching 17 miles along the northwest portion of Kauai, the Nā Pali Coast is best admired from air–usually via a helicopter tour–or from a boat on the sea.

Whichever option you choose, there’s no doubt that what is arguably the most beautiful corner of The Garden Island is bound to impress.

Na Pali Coast of Kauai Hawaii. Kauai is one of the best road trips in USA.

Florida Keys

For a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the USA, head to the Florida Keys!

Not only is the overseas drive from Miami to Key West one of the most scenic road trips in the USA, but the Keys themselves are also fantastic, home to beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, great food, and plenty of things to do.

While you’re there, be sure to hit the water via snorkeling or scuba diving, go for a swim, enjoy the famous Duval Street, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, and eat several slices of the region’s famous Key Lime pie!

Highway over the Caribbean Sea leading the to Floriday Keys as shot with a drone. The Florida Keys are one of the best places to visit in USA

Big Island, Hawaii

From Patricia of Travel Fam Life

The biggest of the Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) is a cool place to visit.

That starts with the weather: you’ll experience a lot of sunshine temperatures ranging from 85°- 90° in the summer months and 79°- 83 in the winter months, making it the perfect place to escape year-round.

Hawaii is going to impress anyone that decides to visit.

The food is phenomenal and the choices are vast with plenty of history and cultural backgrounds.

The array of activities ranges from land to sea, from memorable ancient sites to beautiful folklore traditions.

Some of the best things to do when taking a vacation to the Big Island include:

woman snorkeling in hawaii with orange fish in the foreground

Zip Lining over waterfalls is an activity that can be very exhilarating if you are an adrenaline junkie.

This can also be enjoyed as a family activity, some companies allow kids as young as 5 years old to participate.

Volcano National Park is a breathtaking experience with its majestic hikes, thrilling ride down to the Chain of Craters, and some spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.

Papakolea or Green Sand Beach is one of 4 green sand beaches in the world.

The hike to this remote beach is very worthwhile, and the backdrop of the Hawaiian blue ocean that keeps you company makes the whole experience priceless.

And the list goes on, you can check it out here .

Helicopter tour of Volcano National Park in Hawaii shot from inside the helicopter with lava visible through the windshield

Outer Banks, North Carolina

With sandy beaches framed by sand dunes and rolling waves, the Outer Banks of North Carolina may not boast the bright water of the Florida Keys or the tropical beauty of Hawaii, but they are stunning all the same, and absolutely one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Come for the small beach towns, the history of the Wright Brothers taking their first flight here, the southern food, the historic forts, and the beautiful lighthouses.

Come for the sunken pirate ships, for the wild horses that live on some of the islands, for the great places to swim, and for the great day trip opportunities.

If you’re looking for a classic, all-American vacation, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that make up the magnificent Outer Banks.

2 wild horses on a beach in North Carolina. Both horses are brown and they are standing near sand dunes

Oahu, Hawaii

From Sydney of A World in Reach

While visitors sometimes think of Oahu as just being a stopping point before visiting Hawaii’s other islands, the island has so much to offer than overcrowded beaches and tourist attractions.

Oahu is home to delicious food, beautiful scenery, and captivating history and is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.

Most visitors to Oahu will base themselves in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and largest city.

Guidebooks often recommend spending little time in Honolulu; however, this city is a melting pot of culture and is home to some of the best food on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal or some of the best Asian food in the United States, you can easily find a delicious meal in Honolulu.

Start your visit to Oahu off by exploring Honolulu, seeing the sights, and eating all of the delicious food.

oahu hawaii beach at sunset with palm trees in the foreground

Spend a day at Waikiki Beach – it might be touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.

Plan a visit to Pearl Harbor, where you can learn more about one of the darkest days in US History, and spend a morning hiking Diamond Head, one of the best hikes on Oahu .

Spend the rest of your time on the island exploring the North Shore, visiting the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and indulging in shave ice from Matsumoto.

Visit the beaches along the North Shore, where you might see some surfers catching waves, and hike through a botanical garden to a beautiful waterfall at Waimea Valley.

Lanikai beach in Oahu Hawaii as seen from above. One of the best beaches in USA

Napa Valley, California

Northern California’s wine country is definitely among the most beautiful–and for wine lovers, tastiest, places to visit in the USA.

With beautiful small towns, great boutiques, and rolling hills filled with vineyards that almost feel like being in Tuscany, both Napa Valley and Sonoma County have plenty to offer those looking for a laid-back, wine-filled getaway.

Vineyard in Napa Valley CA with a wood barn visible in the background, one of the best honeymoon destinations in usa

Door County, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Wisconsin often isn’t the first US state that people think of visiting, but from beautiful beaches to quirky attractions like House on the Rock , it has plenty to offer.

One of the most beautiful USA landmarks, Door Country, Wisconsin welcomes you on board with 300 miles of stretched shoreline and an awestruck sunset over the water, you could not leave without a witness.

It allows your soul to breathe and relax. Wisconsin lets you explore aesthetic art galleries, and thousands of miles of stretched orchards, cherish the local brews and wines, paddle along the beautiful lakes, and devour the cheery pies.

winding road through fall foliage in door county wisconsin, one of the best hidden usa secret vacation spots

Moreover, Green Bay, the capital of the region, is an underrated city that eventually captivates its visitors.

Though it’s a small city, the vibrant culture offers amazing things to do in Green Bay .

Green Bay entertains visitors with prominent wineries. They produce their wines right up there which adds up to be a vital part of their culture. The landscape and heritage inspire the artists.

Walleye fishermen have the best water. It’s clean and portrays immense beauty. The botanical gardens and zoological parks play their role in charming travelers.

Green Bay is an enchanting place that charms visitors with its intriguing features.

Lakeshore at golden hour in Door County Wisconsin with evergreen trees on the right side of the photo

Route 66 isn’t technically just one place, but as one of the most iconic travel destinations in the United States, I couldn’t bear to leave it off this USA bucket list!

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is America’s best-known road trip and the perfect place to find not-quite-forgotten slices of Americana, from quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch and the Catoosa Whale to beloved diners and 50s-era-inspired motels.

Route 66 passes through nine states in total (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California), and is a fantastic way to experience some of the best of what traveling in the US has to offer, all in one large trip.

jeremy storm sitting on top of a car at cadillac ranch in amarillo

Big cities, small towns, incredibly diverse landscapes, and beloved national parks are all featured heavily on Route 66.

Though it’s not technically on the route, even the Grand Canyon is accessible as an incredible side journey when road-tripping Route 66.

Whether you want to find a quirky campsite in Oklahoma or go hiking in Arizona, there’s no doubt that Route 66 is a classic US travel destination.

Route 66 in California with Joshua trees on either side. Route 66 is one of the absolute best road trips in USA

Big Sur, California

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the US and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Cruising along the winding Pacific Coast Highway with sweeping views of the Pacific is a magical experience.

This rugged area is located in Central California, about 5 hours north of Los Angeles.

If you aren’t able to find available lodging within Big Sur, check out nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey for more options, or try car camping with an epic view!

mcway falls as seen on big sur from above, one of the best places to visit in california

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Big Sur .

I definitely recommend checking out the iconic Bixby Bridge (as seen in HBO’s Big Little Lies), admiring McWay Falls, hiking in Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park, having a drink with a view at Nepenthe and watching the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach!

There’s not much cell service in Big Sur, so be prepared for an off-the-grid weekend of relaxation and gorgeous views.

Pacific Coast Highway California shot from above, one of the best romantic vacations for couples in the United States

Page, Arizona

The small town of Page, Arizona may seem like no more than a small town worthy of a brief stop on a road trip at first blush–but this small, unassuming town is home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire southwest, and it definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Page is where you can find the famous Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend , the Instagram darling of the Colorado River (for very good reason).

Just outside of Page, you can also find the remarkable Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US, as well as Lake Powell–but to see the best of Lake Powell, you’ll actually need to cross into Utah!

That’s not hard to do, though: Page is located right next to the Arizona/Utah border.

With such an outsized list of fun attractions, there’s no doubt that Page is one of the coolest places to vacation in the USA.

2 photos of the USA, first from a train ride in Alaska and one from a geothermic spring in Yellow. Black and red text reads "50 bucket list usa travel destinations"

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US”

Great info. I know its great because I have been to most of the beaches you mention!

Thank you – will also look at your Italian small towns to see which ones we should visit and maybe retire to.

Thank you so much, Laura!

Retiring to Italy–sounds like quite the dream! 🙂

Absolutely amazing article, just loved it.

All 50 states ranked from worst to best, according to a 45-year-old blogger who has been to each one multiple times

Travel blogger Lee Abbamonte, 45, has visited all the states in America at least three times.
In March, Abbamonte ranked all 50 US states based on his personal preferences.
He described the states that felt forgettable and the ones he considers can't-miss destinations.

Not everyone can say they've seen almost every inch of the United States. But Lee Abbamonte , a 45-year-old travel blogger, can.

Abbamonte, who formerly worked in finance in NYC, said he was inspired to dedicate his life to travel after many of his coworkers were killed on 9/11.

Since then, he's visited every country in the world, the North and South Poles, and all 50 states . There's an entire group — the All Fifty States Club — dedicated to the feat. Still, it's an achievement relatively few can say they've accomplished.

Even fewer can say they've done what Abbamonte has, which is to visit each state at least 3 times.

The US Travel Association predicted that domestic travel in 2024 will finally exceed 2019 levels after a slow pandemic recovery, with a total of 2.45 billion trips.

Recently, Abbamonte shared his ranking of the US states on Instagram , based on his love of the outdoors, sports, and personal preferences.

Abbamonte said he knows his list is subjective. He has a soft spot for states where he's lived — including New York, California, and Connecticut — and prefers places with a lot of natural beauty.

Here is his ranking of all 50 states from least favorite to favorite, including what Abbamonte considers the highs and lows of each one.

50. North Dakota

North Dakota is at the bottom of Abbamonte's list because he feels that it's the least accessible state, in part because of a lack of direct flights to major cities in other states.

Given his love of diverse topographies, he also doesn't appreciate its flatness.

"It's really spread out," Abbamonte said. "So to drive anywhere, it takes like two or three hours just within your own state."

He is, however, a fan of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the state's Badlands.

Abbamonte said Kansas, like North Dakota, is flat and spread out.

Kansas would have ranked higher on his list if the more vibrant Kansas City were located there, he said. But that city is actually located in Missouri.

Abbamonte is a sports fan so, in his view, the state's highlight is the basketball arena on the University of Kansas campus in Lawrence, which he says is "the best" in the US.

48. Kentucky

According to Abbamonte, you must be a fan of two things to enjoy visiting Kentucky : horses and fishing.

The University of Kentucky found the state was home to over 200,000 equine species as of 2022, including horses, donkeys, and ponies. Meanwhile, the Northern Kentucky Tribune reported that the 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation found millions of locals and tourists spent a total of $11.2 billion fishing, hunting, and wildlife-watching in Kentucky that year.

Abbamonte said that he knows full well that many people enjoy those activities, but he doesn't.

47. Louisiana

Abbamonte said the vibrancy of New Orleans played a role in Louisiana's spot on his ranking.

"If Louisiana didn't have New Orleans, it would be number 50," he said. "But New Orleans elevates it."

He also said Louisiana would have ranked closer to the top of the list if he had made culinary appeal more of a factor in his decisions.

"If it were based on food, Louisiana would be my top 10 — if not top five — because I love Cajun food," Abbamonte said.

46. Nebraska

The best part of Nebraska, in Abbamonte's view, is that the state's largest city, Omaha, is home to the World Series of college baseball.

His least favorite aspect of Nebraska is how unvaried and flat its topography is.

45. Mississippi

For Abbamonte, the highlight of the Magnolia State is the Mississippi Gulf Coast, which lines the Gulf of Mexico.

While he also enjoyed visiting Mississippi's college towns, including Oxford , he said he didn't find the rest of the state particularly vibrant.

"There's really not much going on," he said.

44. Oklahoma

Abbamonte said that even though Oklahoma is low on his list of favorite states, he thinks it could climb the ranks in the future.

"I don't have anything specifically awesome to say about Oklahoma, but I don't have anything specifically bad to say about it either," Abbamonte told Business Insider.

" Oklahoma City and Tulsa are kind of growing cities," he added. In 2023, the state's Department of Commerce said Oklahoma had the "third fastest-growing economy" in the US, naming jobs and population increases as key causes.

"It's kind of an up-and-coming state," Abbamonte said. "I withhold judgment until my next time back — whenever that might be."

Abbamonte said that his favorite part of visiting Iowa was attending the Field of Dreams baseball game there, calling it the coolest sporting event he'll ever attend.

Held once in 2021 and once in 2022, the two regular-season games between Major League Baseball teams took place in a ballpark right next to the Iowa cornfield popularized by the 1989 movie "Field of Dreams." (There was no 2023 game due to construction on the site, a local TV station reported , and 2024's matchup might be set for Alabama.)

"They had the Yankees and the White Sox play a couple of years ago," he said. "I was there and it was just spectacular."

One downside of Iowa, for Abbamonte, was that the state is very flat, with a lot of cornfields.

42. Arkansas

Abbamonte admitted that while he's been to Arkansas' capital, Little Rock, he hasn't yet explored parts of the state that people rave about, including Northwest Arkansas and the Ozark Mountains.

"I don't have much good to say about Arkansas," he said. "Even the capital, it just doesn't do it for me. It's just not a state that I love being in."

41. Alabama

Abbamonte listed three major things he appreciates about Alabama: college football, the Alabama Gulf Coast, and the state's incredible civil rights sites.

He called visiting Selma, Alabama , "a highly emotional experience," and said another highlight was visiting the Rosa Parks museum and memorial in Montgomery.

"It's one of those things that makes you say to yourself, 'I can't believe this happened in my country — and only about 60 years ago,'" Abbamonte said.

However, he said that Alabama, which has previously been the state with the most fast-food restaurants per capita , lacks cities with must-visit restaurants and activities.

"Birmingham and Mobile are two of the biggest cities — and Huntsville ," he said. "They're just not great places."

40. Indiana

Abbamonte said his favorite thing about Indiana was the state's college basketball culture, and his least favorite thing was his experience in Gary, Indiana .

Located on the southernmost shores of Lake Michigan, Gary is known for is steel mills.

"It's just not a nice place," Abbamonte said. "I don't even think anyone who's ever been to Gary, Indiana, would say anything good about it."

39. Missouri

Abbamonte heralded barbecue as the best thing about Missouri.

It's the first thing he eats when visiting the state.

"Both Kansas City and St. Louis have excellent barbecue and they're [quite] different from each other," he told Business Insider.

However, Abbamonte added, St. Louis didn't impress him as a city, and the relatively high crime rates there were a bit of a turn-off.

A 2023 WalletHub report that evaluated 41 indicators of safety from traffic deaths to assaults ranked St. Louis the least safe city in the US.

38. West Virginia

Abbamonte said West Virginia's "beautiful nature" was one of his favorite parts of the state. Another highlight was Greenbrier Resort , a historic luxury hotel in White Sulphur Springs.

However, he said, that getting to West Virginia can be a little tough because there's no major airport in the state.

"It's only regional airports, so you have to connect in cities like DC, Philadelphia, Chicago — wherever it might be — to get in and out," Abbamonte said. "It's not the most accessible place."

Abbamonte said visiting the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton was one of the highlights of his time in Ohio. However, he described the experience in the state overall as slightly more "dull" or "bland" compared to coastal cities he's more familiar with.

"I don't find any of the cities great, like Cincinnati , Columbus, or Cleveland ," he said. "It's just kind of vanilla to me, but that's just from my New York and LA perspective."

36. South Dakota

In Abbamonte's view, Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills, and the Badlands are the best parts of visiting South Dakota .

"The bad part about South Dakota is that outside that, there's not much," he said.

35. New Hampshire

Abbamonte said the natural beauty of New Hampshire — including stunning fall foliage and delightful summers — sets it apart.

However, he added, the state's cold winters kept him from ranking it among his favorites.

34. Delaware

"The best thing is Dewey Beach," Abbamonte told Business Insider.

With wide stretches of sand fronting the Atlantic Ocean, Dewey Beach is frequented by partygoers and families alike.

Abbamonte said one downside is the major highway surrounding Delaware's biggest city, Wilmington.

"The worst thing is if you're driving on I-95 for about five miles or so, every cop in the state of Delaware is there giving speeding tickets," Abbamonte said. "It's so annoying."

33. Pennsylvania

"I don't love Philadelphia . I don't love Pittsburgh. I'll say the best thing about Pennsylvania for me is it's the home of the Little League World Series in a place called Williamsport," Abbamonte told Business Insider.

He also said that one thing he noticed about Pennsylvania was a stark lack of "continuity" between the state's cities and rural stretches.

"If you go out to western Pennsylvania, it's completely different than Philadelphia," Abbamonte said.

32. Illinois

Abbamonte called Chicago a "great city" and said Lake Michigan is another great reason to visit Illinois.

But he said he felt that there was not as much going on outside Chicago, making it a less-than-desirable state to visit.

"The Maine coast is one of the best in the country," Abbamonte told Business Insider.

However, he added, once he ventured away from the bustling waterfront, he didn't find as much going on in the middle of the state.

30. Wyoming

The mountain town of Jackson , plus Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks, were among Abbamonte's favorite parts of Wyoming.

However, he said that the least-populated state often felt that way — empty.

"It's just a lot of vast distances — not a lot of people, not a lot going on," said Abbamonte, adding, "The national parks are awesome, and Jackson Hole is one of my favorite places in the country."

While the majority of the state could feel deserted, he said, some national parks — especially Yellowstone — seemed overcrowded.

29. Tennessee

Tennessee's capital, Nashville , and the stunning landscapes of the Smoky Mountains are among Abbamonte's favorite things about Tennessee.

However, he said that some of the state's smaller tourist destinations — including Pigeon Forge, home of Dollywood , and Gatlinburg, with its Las Vegas-style wedding and romance industry — feel a little "cheesy" for his personal tastes.

"These kind of cheeseball touristy towns?" he said. "That's just not my taste. A lot of people would like that."

28. New Jersey

Abbamonte's favorite thing about New Jersey is the Jersey Shore , which has ample beaches, boardwalks, and recreational activities.

But, he said, "the smell in North Jersey along the New Jersey Turnpike" is the worst thing about the state.

27. Wisconsin

Abbamonte said his favorite thing about visiting Wisconsin was the immense amount of state pride that locals expressed.

"People from Wisconsin love them some Wisconsin," he said, especially the cheeseheads, a nickname for fans of the Green Bay Packers football team.

However, Abbamonte said the state's "brutal" winters may be the worst part about living or visiting there.

26. Rhode Island

Rhode Island's coast and islands are among the best parts of the state, Abbamonte said. Another highlight, he added, is the incredible Italian cuisine in Providence, the state capital.

However, he also said the smallest state in the US is a little bit forgettable.

25. Vermont

Abbamonte said the stunning natural landscapes — Lake Champlain, for one — make Vermont a beautiful state to visit in spring, summer, and fall.

However, he added, Vermont's frigid winters are a downside.

Abbamonte wasn't charmed by any of Texas' major cities and especially disliked the traffic in Houston.

But he said he loves Big Bend National Park near the border with Mexico.

23. New Mexico

Abbamonte called New Mexico "an absolutely beautiful state."

"They call it the land of enchantment, and you know, that's kind of like what it is," he said.

Abbamonte said that Roswell , the site of what many consider to be America's first UFO controversy, could feel a little "cheesy with the alien stuff."

22. Georgia

Abbamonte gave points to Georgia for being the site of the iconic Masters golf tournament in Augusta and for the state's beautiful islands, including Sea Island and Tybee Island.

However, he said, he wasn't a huge fan of Atlanta's congestion.

"The traffic in Atlanta is just so enragingly slow and awful," Abbamonte said.

21. Minnesota

Abbamonte called Minnesota "absolutely stunning," adding that Lake Superior is "just spectacular."

"They call it the land of 10,000 lakes . There's a lot of water there, and it's all very beautiful," he said. "The worst thing for me would surely be the winters."

20. Michigan

Abbamonte said his favorite thing about Michigan is the Upper Peninsula, which he called "beautiful."

He wasn't a fan of Detroit, which he said is one of his least favorite cities in the US.

19. Virginia

Northern Virginia — with its wide range of restaurants, shopping, and recreational activities — is a good alternative to Washington DC, Abbamonte said.

The state capital, Richmond, was a Confederate capital, which he felt was part of a darker history that was hard to ignore.

Abbamonte said the best thing about Idaho is Sun Valley , a beautiful ski resort town also known for its annual "summer camp for billionaires." He also loves the state's gorges and the scenery along the Snake River.

However, Abbamonte added, some of Idaho's most beautiful pockets and resorts can be hard to get to.

"It's not the most accessible place unless you're flying private, basically," he said.

17. Maryland

As a graduate of the University of Maryland, Abbamonte said he's a "big fan" of the state. He said that the best thing about Maryland is the local cuisine, primarily blue crabs, and the worst thing about Maryland is the Beltway traffic.

"The Beltway kind of circles Washington DC," he said. "Anyone who lives there or has driven it knows what I'm talking about."

16. South Carolina

Abbamonte said he felt South Carolina and North Carolina were somewhat similar.

In his view, the best thing about South Carolina is its coastline, lined with beach towns. The accessibility of its resorts and golf courses is another plus.

15. Connecticut

Abbamonte, who grew up in Connecticut, said the city of New Haven has the "best pizza in the country."

His only issue with Connecticut is that he recalls it not being the "most exciting" place to spend his childhood. "I couldn't wait to leave," he said, although he said he started to appreciate it more when he got older.

14. Massachusetts

Massachusetts' coastline and its islands, including Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, are its best features, Abbamonte said.

He also said that he can admit that Boston is a "great city" — even though he's spent many years based in its famous rival city, New York.

His least favorite part about Massachusetts is the Boston accent. "Not a fan," he pronounced.

13. Florida

For Abbamonte, the Sunshine State is all about good weather and pretty scenery, especially in the Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Park.

He said he has nothing bad to say about Florida , except that areas that are geographically close to each other can feel very different.

"Florida is almost like a checkerboard," Abbamonte said. "You go a town over, and then it's almost a different world."

12. North Carolina

Abbamonte said his favorite part of North Carolina is the Outer Banks, a series of islands filled with state parks and beautiful beaches fronting the Atlantic Ocean.

He added that he prefers North Carolina's major cities, including Raleigh, Asheville, and Charlotte, to its smaller towns and countryside.

11. New York

Abbamonte, who's lived in New York City for over two decades, has a soft spot for the state, too.

New York state's diversity of landscapes and activities are its main lure, he said.

"It's almost like a mini-California because it really has just about everything," Abbamonte explained. "It doesn't have deserts, but it has mountains and waterfalls and, obviously, a world-class city."

His only issue with New York is that some parts can be expensive.

Alaska's national parks, its glaciers, its fjords, and Denali — the highest peak in North America, formerly called Mount McKinley — are all reasons Abbamonte is such a big fan of the 49th state.

"It's like another world," he said, adding that he also has a soft spot for the state's capital, Juneau.

If he had to pick a downside, he added, it's how dark it is in Alaska six months out of the year.

"But to visit, especially in the summer, it's like a dream," he said.

Montana is similar to Alaska, Abbamonte said, because they both have stunning vistas and many outdoor activities.

Certain parts of western and northern Montana are particularly special, he added. "It might be the most beautiful part of America," he said.

His least favorite aspect about the state is how "isolating" it can feel because it's not as densely populated as other parts of the US.

8. Washington

Abbamonte said Seattle is the "most beautiful city, surely in America and maybe anywhere." In the summer, he added, Mount Rainier can be visible from the city, which is "a stunner."

Besides Seattle, Abbamonte loves how Washington state reminds him of Canada. "You feel like you're in Canada, but you're in America," he said.

How often it rains is the only downside of the state, in Abbamonte's view.

"The Oregon coast is one of the most underrated beautiful places in America," Abbamonte said.

An avid golfer, he's also a fan of the Bandon Dunes golf club and resort.

His only issue with Oregon, like Washington, is how rainy it can get. "The downfall there is definitely the weather," he said.

Abbamonte placed Nevada so high in his ranking of all 50 US states for one major reason: Lake Tahoe.

"It's just absolutely fantastic" — no matter the season, he said.

When it comes to Las Vegas, he thinks any traveler can find something they'll enjoy. "If you don't like Vegas," he added, "you're the problem — because there's something for everybody in Las Vegas." Just avoid the occasional "unsavory activities and people.""

Abbamonte loves Hawaii so much that he's tried to visit each year since 2004.

"The weather is perfect and there's great hiking, there's great golfing," said Abbamonte, adding that he also enjoys Polynesian culture.

His only issue with Hawaii is its distance from the continental United States. "Even from California, it's a five- to six-hour flight," he said. "It's a hassle to get there."

Arizona is often appreciated for its desert vistas and the Grand Canyon, but Abbamonte said Arizona has even more to offer, including skiing in Flagstaff and some national parks near its border with Mexico.

Abbamonte also said the sunsets are among the best of "anywhere in the US."

His only issue with the state is how hot it can get in the summer, adding "especially Phoenix in the summer, the average temperature can get up into the 120s."

Abbamonte said the best part of Utah is that it is "pure nature." Some of the state's national parks are his favorites in the US, including Zion, Arches, and Canyonlands.

His least favorite aspect of Utah, however, is that it can feel "old-school."

2. Colorado

Abbamonte loves mountains, so it's no surprise that Colorado ranks close to the top of his list.

"Colorado is just all about the mountains. I'm not even a skier, but I like going to ski towns and doing everything else but skiing. I also like going to ski towns in the summer because I love hiking," he said.

The only downside to the state he could think of is the relatively prominent homelessness in Denver.

"That's a problem there, without question," he said.

1. California

Abbamonte moved to Los Angeles three years ago after spending most of his adult life in NYC.

His new home state delights him in myriad ways, he added.

"It has beaches, it has mountains, it has deserts, it has islands, it has great cities, it has good cities," he said, adding there is something for everyone in California — "no matter what you like."

If he had to pick a con, it would be how expensive the state can be.

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12 Best US States To Visit With Kids

Published on April 19, 2023
by The Mom Trotter
in North America , Travel , Travel Destinations

best us states to visit with kids - florida 2

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Going on family vacations is a fantastic opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. It’s important that you explore the museums, national parks, historic sites, and fun places with your kids.

A lot of families think they have to travel out of the US but that is not the case. There is so much to do and see right here in the U.S. Below, I share 12 of the best U.S. states to visit with kids.

12 Best US States to Visit With Kids

1. california.

best us states to visit with kids - california

California is a stunning place to go for kids of all ages and adults. It has a range of fun activities for the whole family ranging from snow-capped mountain ranges to amusement parks and beaches.

There are so many experiences in California that you will not be able to experience all of them in one trip. This makes it the best place for kids to build memories as they learn while they explore these states.

Rent a car and drive from coast to coast to see as much as possible.

Top Things To Do In California With Kids

Yosemite National Park : This is a stunning place where your kids will get to opportunity to camp, swim, fish, hike, and take pictures
Disneyland : a fun place filled with classic Disney rides, fireworks show, trying out top carnival-style food, collecting autographs, and, so on.
Crystal Cove State Park: fun outdoor activities waiting for you here from building sandcastles, going boogie-boarding, walking or mountain biking through the inland trails, and many more.
Legoland California : this attraction is filled with numerous hands-on activities, an aquarium, and a water park.
San Diego Zoo: The San Diego Zoo is the world’s largest zoo and is famous for its beautiful natural exhibits.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In California

Great Wolf Lodge : this hotel has an indoor water park as well as several activities to keep your kids busy during your stay.
Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa: perfect hotel with rolling lawn and radiant gardens with bicycle and jogging trails. The hotel has many child-friendly activities which your kids will love.
Marriott’s Shadow Ridge II-The Enclaves: magnificent hotel with numerous dining options on-site with many fun things for kids. Stuff like whirlpool spas, waterslides, children’s pools, tennis courts, and game rooms are included.
L’Auberge Del Mar : it has a private path to the beach with poolside cabanas and a spa to just relax. Your kids will also enjoy the horse race and playing golf by the sea.
Omni Las Palmas Resort & Spa : family-friendly hotel with water park and lazy river.

2. New York

best us states to visit with kids - new york.

New York is a state with fun activities for all families from the stunning Hampton beaches to the serene lakes, Niagara Falls, and the culture and arts.

The state also has delicious food items for kids. They can enjoy foods from ramen burgers to ice cream and wine at numerous family-friendly vineyards. Not forgetting Time Square, New York’s most popular attraction.

Top Things To Do In New York With Kids

Staten Island Ferry: you are going to get magnificent views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor from this ferry ride which will linger on in your kids’ memory.
The Empire State Building: best place to get mesmerizing city views from the 86th floor
Brooklyn Children’s Museum: this museum homes up to 30,000 collections ranging from minerals to skeletons of Asian elephants to masks and dolls with many other children’s activities that your kids will love to participate in.
Bronx Zoo: this attraction has lots of animals that they can see with kids’ activities like bug carousels, camel rides, and many more.
Max Brenner Chocolate Bar and Restaurant: this is a chance to treat your kids to mouthwatering foods that they will love.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In New York

Lowell Hotel : the hotel is close to many attractions like Central Park, museum mile, and so on with babysitting services for toddlers.
Sofitel New York : the hotel features a separate bedroom and it is close to Manhattan subway lines.
Le Parker Meridien : this hotel features an enclosed rooftop pool where you will get magnificent views and kid-friendly restaurants.
Langham Place Fifth Avenue: this is the most luxurious kid-friendly suite in the city in a great location and close to Times Square.
Doubletree Guest Suites Times Square: The hotel is equipped with a microwave and mini-fridge with a kid’s menu for room service.

3. Colorado

best us states to visit with kids - colorado

This is a perfect place to spend your summer with kids as it has lots of kid-friendly activities from great camping spots to out-of-this-world theme parks and many indoor attractions that your kids will enjoy.

Some of the top things to do in Colorado with kids are listed below.

Top Things To Do In Colorado With Kids

Visit Mountainsides Zoo: your kids will get to see wildlife and also get to feed the giraffe while enjoying magnificent views of the area.
Ski at Winter Park : Winter Park is a very kid-friendly ski resort with plenty of activities your family will enjoy.
Hot air Ballooning: Your children need to be up to five years and above to participate but this a stunning adventure with 360-degree views of the stunning Colorado Rockies.
Go sightseeing at Broadmoor Seven Falls: These are stunning falls that are easily accessible by a short walk and elevator ride. You can also explore the additional trails and zip-lining adventures while you are here.
Acacia Park: This is home to the famous Uncle Wilbur’s Fountain with a play area that your kids will really love. You can also have a picnic here.
Denver : From the children’s museums to good food, there is no shortage of things to do in Denver.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Colorado

Best Western Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites : this hotel boasts of a Jacuzzi and an indoor pool. They also provide a continental breakfast every morning, there are also many restaurants close by.
Tivoli Lodge : this is a luxury ski resort popular for its stunning location with magnificent mountain views and Vail’s Golden Peak ski area.
Woolley’s Classic Suites – Denver Airport : this is a magnificent hotel with many amenities to make your stay comfortable from breakfast in the morning to wines and cocktails in the evening to an indoor pool, pets are allowed, a heated pool, and so on.
The Broadmoor : this hotel features a Jacuzzi, golf course, outdoor pool, sauna, connecting rooms for the family, and so on.
The Crawford Hotel : this hotel offers a guest unique experience with modern luxury, the hotel also provides a shuttle bus service and they also allow a pet.

best us states to visit with kids - texas

Texas is a great place where kids will get room to unleash their creativity, imagination, and energy. The state has lots of attractions from man-made theme parks to natural historical parks which they will enjoy.

The state is filled with lots of kids’ friendly activities and you will not be able to do all of them in one vacation. Some of the top things to do in Texas with kids are listed below.

Top Things To Do In Texas With Kids

Natural Bridge Caverns: This is a great spot to have thrilling adventures while learning about nature and geology.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas: a stunning theme park with roller coasters, and a waterpark that will make you scream your lung out.
Silver Spur Guest Ranch: This is the best place to experience the Western way of slow living. While riding the horses, meals, and spending quality time with your kids on the range.
Lake Travis: Your kids can have fun at the onsite water park which is filled with rides and activities that the whole family will love.
National Butterfly Center: You and your family will get to see hundreds of wild butterflies. Admire the numerous shapes and colors that the different species of butterfly has.

Best Things To Do With Kids In Texas

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa: You and your kids will love this hotel which features waterparks and many other activities in which the whole family can participate.
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa: This hotel has a golf course with a kids’ program and a water park with restaurants with children’s menu options.
The Woodlands Resort: this hotel features many fun games like golf courses, a tennis center, a swimming pool, and a water park. You can also enjoy poolside movies afterward.
Hilton Anatole : this hotel features a water park and several restaurants so that you can just stay in and relax, and enjoy your stay.
Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, Cedar Creek: The popular activities for your kids here are hiking and biking. Nature tours, a water park, and tennis courts.

best us states to visit with kids - georgia

Georgia, especially Atlanta is a great place for young kids with its rich history, lots of cultural activities, and many parks that you will love.

The state is filled with many outdoor type adventures from going biking on the Beltline to hiking up the magnificent Stone Mountain.

There are also many museums with lots of kid’s activities that you and your young ones will have a splendid time at.

Top Things To Do In Georgia With Kids

Georgia Aquarium: you will see lots of aquatic animals here.
Piedmont Park: lots of fun things to do here and it features playgrounds, swimming pools, picnic areas, and so on.
Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta: this attraction features two different rides. Duplo Village, and a 4-D cinema for you and your kids.
Centennial Olympic Park: you and your kids will get to enjoy live music at festivals throughout the year here with daily fountain shows and kids can play in the jets in the summer.
Stone Mountain Park: This park offers the opportunity for kids to hike up Stone Mountain. There’s lots of fun and thrilling rides for your kids.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Georgia

Hampton Inn Darien-I-95 : the hotel has a friendly staff that will treat your kids like kings and queens with many off-site restaurants with a kids menu.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District / Riverfront : you will get a mind-blowing river view from the hotel. And they have an onsite restaurant with a kid’s menu.
The Marshall House: this is a stunning hotel with free breakfast available. The hotel also has an onsite restaurant with a kids’ menu and lots of family-friendly amenities.
River Street Inn : hotel with magnificent river views and an onsite library where you will get access to lots of books. It is also close to many restaurants and many attractions that you can easily access.
Hampton Inn & Suites Savannah Historic District : the hotel is close to many attractions and it has an outdoor pool that your kids will love. With many amenities provided like free breakfast and so on.

6. Louisiana

best us states to visit with kids - louisiana

Although many people do associate Louisiana, especially New Orleans with a non-stop party atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, there are many magnificent things for you to see and do here too.

There are lots of kid-friendly activities here. From educational museums, stunning gardens, historic buildings, parks, and zoos that they will really love to experience.

Top Things To In Louisiana With Kids

Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point: This is a free and fun attraction where your kids can spot wildlife. Try out Cajun/Creole cooking, get creative with hands-on imaginative display, and many more.
Sam Houston Jones State Park: The best place for outdoor activities for your kids. And they will also get to see some wildlife like alligators and snakes.
Audubon Zoo : A magnificent attraction where you will get to see an exotic mix of wildlife from around the globe in stunning natural habitats. And also the best place where the kids can learn about conservation.
Mardi Gras Museum: you will get to see the amazing fantasy factory with many props.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Louisiana

Hotel Monteleone: the hotel is close to many attractions with an easy check-in process and an outdoor pool. It has an onsite restaurant with a kid-friendly menu.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel : It is located in a perfect location close to restaurants and nightlife options. The hotel provides amenities like a coffee maker, iPod docking station, onsite restaurant, etc.
Cambria Hotel & Suites New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District : the hotel has a refreshing relaxed vibe with a spa, and free breakfast, concierge service, onsite restaurant, etc.
The Jung Hotel & Residences: the hotel provides free breakfast, and other amenities. Like self-serve laundry, an on-site restaurant, a pool, and so on.

best us states to visit with kids - alaska

Alaska is a wild, unspoiled, mysterious that is going to bring out your imagination and your spirit of adventure. You can easily explore the stunning mountains, fjords, glaciers, and lodges that filled the state on your trip.

You will get to see grizzly bears, whales, wild animals, and many more. The city is also filled with many family-friendly attractions that you can visit from museums to cafes in Juneau, Denali, and so on.

Best Things To Do In Alaska With Kids

The Alaska Zoo: best place to see wildlife like bears, moose, and so on.
The Reindeer Farm: this is a stunning attraction where your kids will get to see and have a hand on experience with reindeer, horses, rocky mountain elk, and bison.
Ride The Tram: thrilling ride where you will get mesmerizing views.
Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: the perfect opportunity to see diverse Alaskan wildlife up close.
Eagle River nature center: the attraction is filled with numerous thrilling activities for you and your kids. Like hiking, overnight camping, nature studies, and so on.

Top Kid-Friendly Hotels In Alaska

Bridgewater Hotel : This hotel has stunning river views with a free breakfast buffet. It has family amenities like cribs, a refrigerator, laundry service, and so on.
Reluctant Fisherman Inn : you will get mesmerizing glacier views from here. It also has a private balcony that overlooks the water and many family amenities like on-site dining, kitchenettes, etc.
Turnagain View Bed and Breakfast: it has spacious suites with cribs and a family room that can contain more than 5 people.
Bristol Bay Lodge : the hotel has remote overnight camps, a hot tub with a sauna, free breakfast, a game room, etc.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage: the hotel has a Jacuzzi, indoor pool, laundry facilities, onsite dining option with a kid’s menu, and so on.

best us states to visit with kids - hawaii

Hawaii is a great place where you will get to mix adventure with relaxation as you will get to see beautiful scenery, interact with some amazing animals. And also experience the cosmopolitan vibe with mind-blowing shopping opportunities in Waikiki.

Your kids no matter how old they are will surely find something that will pick their interest in Hawaii.

Top Things To Do With Kids In Hawaii

Visit Honolulu Zoo: the perfect place for your kids to see different wildlife. And also get the opportunity to take Instagram-worthy pictures.
Experience A Traditional Luau: This is the best opportunity to learn and experience the Luau culture. Your kids should not miss the opportunity to see this.
Picnic At Hanauma Bay: this is a perfect place where your kids can learn about conservation, safety rules, and marine life. And a perfect swimming opportunity for them.
Dole Plantation: your kids will have a fun and educative day here as you explore the plantation and feed the fish inside the pond. You can also buy yummy pineapple treats here.
Visit the Black Sand & Green Sand Beach: These are amazing places for your beach vacations. There are so many amazing beaches in Hawaii. And the green and black sand beaches stand out the most.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Hawaii

Turtle Bay Resort : can be found in a stunning location with a private beach and a huge pool. You will get ocean views from your hotel. With many things to do like having surf lessons, snorkeling, bike rentals, and so on.
Grand Wailea : the hotel rooms have a private balcony and connecting room for family. It is the perfect spot for standup paddleboarding, and boogie-boarding. With many water activities like water slides, water elevator, game area, and many more.
Four Seasons Hualalai : it has the option of connecting rooms for family. And it has many kid amenities with a kid pool that your kids will love and can learn to swim and snorkel inside the pool here.
Montage Kapalua Bay : this luxury resort with many fun activities for kids like a kids club. And a teen program where they can go hiking, horseback riding, and zip lining nearby.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa : luxury resort with an adjoining room for the family. And a mini water park with waterslides, hot tubs, and kids’ programs for your kids.

Black Kids Travel - Black Family Travel - Black Travel

Florida is among the best state to visit in the United States with kids as there are lots of fun things to do, especially Orlando With Kids . The attractions include museums, theme parks, beaches, and natural parks.

There are many fun things to do with kids and memories to make that your kids will surely remember.

Top Things To Do In Florida With Kids

Walt Disney World : this attraction is filled with thrilling experiences like fun rides, live performances, themed restaurants, and so on.
Universal Studios Orlando: offers opportunities to go on thrilling-themed rides, watch stunt shows, try out snacks on treats from Honey Dukes, and water park to enjoy in the summer for kids.
Legoland Florida : a fun place for kids as they can go on fun rides, learn how to drive, and get creative. And there is a waterpark during the summer.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: this attraction provides the perfect opportunity to learn about how insect eats, breed, and migrate. And your kids can get creative at the imagination art gallery.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: a perfect place to go snorkeling and see mesmerizing and colorful corals, sea turtles, reef fish, and so on. There are many water sports for you and your kids here.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Florida

Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach : there are many family-friendly amenities in this resort with many activities like nature walks, dining in movies, sandcastle building, games, and so on.
Holiday Inn Vacation Club At Orange Lake Resort : the Holiday Inn Resort property is full of kid-friendly things to do with kids.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa : located on Miramar Beach with multiple pools, a water park, a zip line, go-karts, child care services, and many more.
Legoland Florida Resort : this resort is next to Legoland Florida theme park with numerous children’s facilities. And a colorful interior filled with Lego toys and play areas.
Portofino Island Resort : located at Portofino Beach with numerous kid-friendly activities like kayak excursions, a water park, mermaid adventure, surf camp, dolphin cruises, mesmerizing firework shows, and so on.

10. Illinois

Things To Do In Chicago In The Winter With Kids

Illinois is a state that is rich in excitement, adventure, and history. And it is also the state that Abraham Lincoln calls his home which also makes it pretty special.

The state has many fun adventures waiting for your kids from the Pirates Cove Children’s Themes Park to the zoos for the family that loves animals to nerve-wracking adventures at Safari Land.

There are also many museums with a stunning range of exhibits and children-friendly activities. And Chicago is one of our favorite cities to visit.

Top Things To Do In Illinois With Kids

Millennium Park: This is a stunning attraction that hosts hundreds of free cultural events like exhibitions, concerts, and family activities.
Leaning Tower of Niles: the perfect place to attend open-air music concerts, enjoy picnics, and take Instagram-worthy pictures.
Chicago Botanic Garden: gorgeous garden with 27 display gardens that you can explore. You can also visit the on-site gift shop and café.
Willis Tower Skydeck: this is an iconic building where you will get to see mesmerizing views of the city and know about the history of Chicago.
Chicago Children’s Museum: this museum will help build the creativity of your kids. You should not miss this attraction while in Chicago.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Illinois

Hilton Chicago : the hotel is close to many attractions and it has an indoor pool and running track. There is also the spacious rooftop deck where you can relax in the sun.
Four Seasons Hotel : there are many fun activities and learning opportunities for your kids here with pizza-making class. Your kids can also listen to bedtime take from the hotel’s storyteller. And there are toys and treats that the hotel provides for your kids.
Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park: located in the heart of downtown Chicago and close to Millenium Park where you can enjoy a family gourmet picnic, cribs for toddlers, and a kids’ menu in the restaurant.
Swissotel Chicago : numerous kid activities waiting for you here ranging from the coloring area to a playing area. The hotel also has an adjoining room equipped with stuffed animals, video games, and so on.
Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown : the hotel offers free breakfast and is close to many parks. The hotel is also equipped with an indoor heated pool.

best us states to visit with kids - oregon

Oregon is a kid-friendly state with numerous attractions and fun activities. Portland is a great city to go for a weekend getaway for new adventures.

There are many things to do with kids from riding the aerial tram to see a mesmerizing view of the city from the city to seeing rare animals at the zoo and exploring the popular Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

The state also has many spots for a picnic. And there are many café’s to try out mouthwatering meals with the whole family.

Top Things To Do In Oregon With Kids

Oregon Zoo: best place for the family to have a stunning animal experience where you will see and learn something about your favorite animal that you don’t know before.
Portland Aerial Tram: thrilling ride where you will also get magnificent views of the city. And the perfect place to take Instagram-worthy pictures.
Coastal Oregon: Oregon has lots of beaches to visit just 2 hours outside of Portland that your kids will love.
Portland Children’s Museum: the museum is filled with many interactive and stunning exhibits for the kids. And they also encourage the kids to be creative.
Floating World Comics: this is a stunning bookstore in downtown Portland where your kids can get comic books of all kinds that they like.
Go Hiking: there are so many family-friendly hiking trails in Portland , and waterfalls too.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Oregon

Inn at Seaside : located in a picturesque area and it has many fun activities for the kids. The hotel is equipped with an aquarium, bumper boats, kitchens, and so on.
Sandcastle Beachfront Motel : motel has stunning oceanfront views with kitchens, whirlpool tubs, an indoor pool, and so on.
Hotel Lucia : this is a luxury hotel with standard amenities the hotel is pet-friendly and has lots of facilities that the kids will enjoy.
The Ocean Lodge : this lodge is equipped with kitchenettes, fireplaces, a library filled with books for all ages, a free continental breakfast, and so on.
Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach : this is a mid-range beachfront hotel close to Haystack Rock with lovely spas and saltwater pools.

This is a city driven by tourism. Whether you are in the city for business trips, family vacations, or party groups, there are many fun things that you can do in Las Vegas .

The state is getting filled with family-friendly activities that will make your kids have a good time. The city is also adding more and more fun and stunning experience which makes the state somewhere that you and your kids’ needs.

Top Things To Do In Nevada With Kids

Visit Las Vegas : Although Las Vegas does not seem family-friendly, there are many things to do here. From the visit to Bellagio Fountains and conservatory to the ride in the world’s tallest Ferris wheels.
Explore Ely: this stunning museum gives you the chance to go on 90-minute train rides. With many other activities that vary from one season to another.
Visit Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park: this park is divided into three main parks where your kids will get to learn more about history.
Visit the Great Basin National Park: at this park, your kids will get to enjoy outdoor activities with many exhibitions of art sculptures. And a perfect place to go hiking.
Shark Reef aquarium: this is a thrilling underwater experience that you and your kids should not miss. You will see diverse dangerous and unusual aquatic animals.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Las Vegas

The Mirage : The hotel has nightly eruptions of the man-made volcano. Watching the lion and dolphins, a puppet show, a kid’s menu, and many more.
MGM Grand Hotel & Casino : This luxury hotel has many thrilling facilities for kids. Like the five-pool complex with a long winding river pool, waterfalls, and so on.
Green Valley Ranch Resort and Spa : a stunning resort with an arcade and Regal Cinemas movie theater on site. The hotel also has a pool area with a sandy bottom which is popular among the family.
Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino : the hotel is well known for its tank pool. And the highlight is the water slide that runs through a shark tank.
The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa : the hotel offers family-friendly amenities with large guest rooms that are suitable for families, children pool, and so on.

Show your kids that adventure can be right around the corner!

There are so many amazing states to visit with kids. So if international travel isn’t possible, consider local travel by bus, train , or plane.

Don’t forget to get Travel Books for your kids to prepare them for whatever state you plan to visit.

Booking Your Trip – Tips & Tricks

How To Book Cheap Flights When You Travel

If you are looking to book the cheapest flights you can possibly find on the internet, then make sure to use Skyscanner when searching for flights. Don’t forget to download the Free Skyscanner App also which is very handy. This is how I was able to get $12.40 airfare from Los Angeles to London, as well as $9.40 airfare from London to Italy.

How To Book Affordable Accommodation When You Travel

When booking accommodation, TripAdvisor is the way to go because you can read reviews and see photos from other travelers to get a feel of where you will be staying. Other great sites to book hotels are HotelsCombined , Booking .com and Hotels.com . Don’t forget to check HomeAway and VRBO for house and villa rentals too. Perfect for when you travel with a large family, and also to save money when hotels are expensive. Another favorite of mine is BookVIP – they offer huge resort savings.

How To Book Activities When You Travel

My favorite website to search for activities, tours and especially skip the line tickets is Viator and Get Your Guide . This makes trip planning so much easier because you don’t have to search several sites as both websites have several options to choose from. Same also goes with TripAdvisor Attractions – you can search and book activities as well as read reviews.

How To Book Rental Cars When You Travel

Instead of checking every single website, I use RentalCars.com , Car Rental 8 and Skyscanner Car Rentals to find car rentals all over the world with just one click. If you plan to park at the airport, visit Airport Parking and make a reservation.

Why Travel Insurance Is a Must When You Travel

People book trips and forget the most important part, purchasing travel insurance . Because we travel often, I purchase our travel insurance through Allianz for a year at a time which means that we are covered for all trips within that year. Travel insurance will protect you and your family against theft, injury illness, flight cancellations and so much more. It is a MUST!

Looking to save even more money when you travel?

Visit my Travel Resources page to see all the reliable and trustworthy brands that I use to book my travel with. I only recommend brands that I’ve used and can vouch for, so you’re in good hands! ? Also check out these posts below:

How To Save Money On Flights
Best Websites To Find Cheap Flights & Error Fares
Tips On How To Make Travel Affordable For Families

Top Travel With Kids Tips

Traveling with kids and have a few questions you need answers too, these posts below will help your trip run smooth.

Best Travel Gear For Kids
How To Travel With Kids Internationally Alone
Top Must Have Items When Traveling With Kids
Everything You Need To Know About Traveling With A Car Seat

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Hey Fam, I’m so glad you’re here! I am an entrepreneur and travel enthusiast who is passionate about sharing an alternate way of living surrounding travel, homeschooling, parenting and financial independence, with a mission to inspire other families.

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Flowing Cents

10 States That Some Feel Are To Boring To Visit

Posted: March 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 23, 2024

<p><span>The United States homes 50 beautiful states. Each state has its own culture, beautiful landscapes, and diversity. These states attract many people due to their charm. On the other hand, some states fail to gain people’s attention. People mostly found them dull. Some of them are. </span></p>

The United States homes 50 beautiful states. Each state has its own culture, beautiful landscapes, and diversity. These states attract many people due to their charm. On the other hand, some states fail to gain people’s attention. People mostly found them dull. Some of them are.

<p><span>It is a Midwestern US state. It is part of the Green Plains region. It is the 19th largest state, but the minor population inhabits it. Native Americans usually inhabit it. Half the people live in ruler areas, though this state ranks well due to the availability of quality life and economic opportunities. But people find it dull. Its landscapes usually fail to attract visitors.</span></p>

1. North Dakota

It is a Midwestern US state. It is part of the Green Plains region. It is the 19th largest state, but the minor population inhabits it. Native Americans usually inhabit it. Half the people live in ruler areas, though this state ranks well due to the availability of quality life and economic opportunities. But people find it dull. Its landscapes usually fail to attract visitors.

<p><span>Hearing a tornado siren test during the day is just another sound, but hearing the same sound at 3 am can be absolutely terrifying. The thought of a tornado striking in the dead of night sends shivers down anyone's spine.</span></p>

2. Oklahoma

It is located in the south-central region of the United States. It is the 28th most popular state out of 50 states. People living here belong to different backgrounds. It is a significant producer of agricultural products and natural gas. But most people did not like it. Because it is hot, dry and windy, also it’s land that is too flat. Weather is highly fluctuating. You also suffer from allergies due to dust and air pressure.

<p><span>It is a landlocked state in the south-central region of the United States. It is famous for its natural beauty, hills, lakes, and waterfall. But many travelers label it as a dull place to travel. Its oversimplified natural beauty gives a ruler vibe to visitors. You are also likely to face some safety issues.</span></p>

3. Arkansas

It is a landlocked state in the south-central region of the United States. It is famous for its natural beauty, hills, lakes, and waterfall. But many travelers label it as a dull place to travel. Its oversimplified natural beauty gives a ruler vibe to visitors. You are also likely to face some safety issues.

<p><span>Welcome to Indiana, the heart of the Midwest in the United States, where basketball and auto racing reign supreme! This vibrant state is home to the legendary Indianapolis 500, the pinnacle of car racing excellence, held in the bustling capital city of Indianapolis. Apart from racing, Indiana is also known for its thriving business community, with headquarters of companies like Cummins, Anthem, and Eli Lilly. The state also has many top-ranked colleges and universities, including Indiana University and Purdue University.</span></p>

This state is famous for its auto race and farmland. It is the 38th largest state by area and the 17th most popular city. It is an excellent place to live because it offers affordable housing. But as it is landlocked, there are no beaches here, and its temperature is severe. So this holds no charm for visitors. People also found it dull due to a lack of glamour.

<p><span>It is located in the Midwestern United States. It often falls into a list of dull states. It has low population density and long farmlands. Many people mention it is a boring state because it has no mountains. It comprises primarily farm and ruler areas, so it doesn’t seem very interesting. Along with this, people often claim that it offers low recreation activities for visitors.</span></p>

It is located in the Midwestern United States. It often falls into a list of dull states. It has low population density and long farmlands. Many people mention it is a boring state because it has no mountains. It comprises primarily farm and ruler areas, so it doesn’t seem very interesting. Along with this, people often claim that it offers low recreation activities for visitors.

6. Rhode Island

It is a state of England region. It is the smallest state by area. Rhode Island is famous for its shores and sea sides. But many travelers find it a boring destination. This state has only two cities offering recreation, while the other part cannot create a good environment. There is a lack of amenities. Newport is isolated from other parts of the state.

7. California

It is located in the western United States along the Pacific coast. It is the third largest state by area and most populous. According to people traveling to California is a dull experience. Living here is so expensive due to the high rent cost. Here people also face transport issues due to poor transportation. Its beaches are so overcrowded that people often avoid going there.

<p><span>It is a state Mid-western region of the US. People don’t find it much fun to visit Nebraska. Because it has no place for hiking, its weather is not favorable. There is no proper place for swimming other than overcrowded rivers and lakes as most of the part comprises farmlands, so it seems boring to most visitors. </span></p>

8. Nebraska

It is a state Mid-western region of the US. People don’t find it much fun to visit Nebraska. Because it has no place for hiking, its weather is not favorable. There is no proper place for swimming other than overcrowded rivers and lakes as most of the part comprises farmlands, so it seems boring to most visitors.

<p>The idyllic farmlands and quaint villages of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, may seem like a perfect getaway for some. However, one traveler finds it perplexing that people would travel there to gawk at the Amish way of life. To them, this type of tourism is insensitive and exploitative. They suggest that visitors instead take the opportunity to learn about Amish culture and traditions respectfully, without treating it like a sideshow attraction.</p>

9. Pennsylvania

It is 5th most populous state in the United States. According to people’s reviews, it is the most boring state due to the lack of natural beauty. It is wide, but it lacks any beach. Few lakes and small mountains are not enough to give a natural vibe. That is why people often don’t get much while visiting Pennsylvania.

<p>Wisconsin Dells, located in the heart of the Midwest, is known for its water parks and other family-friendly attractions. However, not everyone enjoys this flashy and noisy theme park town. One traveler has criticized the area as stuck in the past, with its constant commercialism and overwhelming noise. During peak season, visitors may feel pressured to spend more money, as the town can be expensive and crowded. The focus on entertainment may appeal to families with young children, but others may find the town lacking in cultural experiences or authentic charm.</p>

10. Wisconsin

It is a state in the upper Midwestern United States with a Michigan and Superior Lake coastline. Due to the lack of geographical features, many visitors do not like it. It has a flat landscape with a little small town. According to people, this state has little to offer.

<p><span>In the realm of celebrities, certain individuals’ attractiveness transcends the screen, captivating the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. These stars possess a magnetic presence, leaving a lasting impression with their striking looks and undeniable charm. Recently, people shared such celebrities on an online platform whose sheer attractiveness is nothing short of distracting. </span></p><ul> <li><a href="https://maxmymoney.org/10-celebrities-that-are-distractingly-attractive/">10 Celebrities That Are Distractingly Attractive</a></li> </ul>

10 Celebrities That Are Distractingly Attractive

In the realm of celebrities, certain individuals’ attractiveness transcends the screen, captivating the hearts and minds of fans worldwide. These stars possess a magnetic presence, leaving a lasting impression with their striking looks and undeniable charm. Recently, people shared such celebrities on an online platform whose sheer attractiveness is nothing short of distracting.

<p><span>Johnny Depp’s lousy hygiene comes from how he takes care of himself. He has been known to live a bohemian lifestyle, with messy hair, a dirty beard, and odd clothing choices. Even though this might be a style choice, it can sometimes look like the person doesn’t care about standard grooming.</span></p>

10 Surprising Movie Characters That Could Never Be Replaced With a New Actor

Sometimes a show or movie is different with the actors playing the characters. Would we love their characters as much if they were played by someone else? See who people claim could never be replaced in their iconic roles with another.

<p>Movies are subjective, and what one person considers a cinematic masterpiece, another may view as a cringe-worthy disaster. However, some films have gained a reputation for being particularly terrible yet still manage to capture the hearts of audiences. These are the guilty pleasure movies that people love to hate but can’t help but watch again and again.</p><ul> <li> <p class="entry-title"><a href="https://maxmymoney.org/terrible-movies-people-love-but-admit-are-horrible/">10 Terrible Movies People Love, But Admit Are Horrible</a></p> </li> </ul>

10 Terrible Movies People Love, But Admit Are Horrible

Movies are subjective, and what one person considers a cinematic masterpiece, another may view as a cringe-worthy disaster. However, some films have gained a reputation for being particularly terrible yet still manage to capture the hearts of audiences. These are the guilty pleasure movies that people love to hate but can’t help but watch again and again.

<p>“That stuff irks me. Boyfriend's colleague knew him for all of a few days and had a couple work related conversations. She messaged him incessantly with no responses, then confessed her feelings to him by text fully aware he was in a relationship. I can't be mad at someone being interested in him, cause he's great and you can't help feelings, but at least respect what is already there. Not only was she unfazed by our relationship, but her own as well seeing as she had a long term boyfriend she was ready to throw away. It's not romantic, it's stupid,” one woman shared.</p>

10 Terrible Things That Automatically Ruin Good Movies

Lights, camera, action! Movies are the ultimate adventure, taking us on a journey to fantastical lands, introducing us to characters out of this world, and stirring emotions within us. However, not all movies are created equal, and certain things can instantly ruin a movie for some viewers. Recently, in a platform discussion, people shared several things that can automatically ruin movies.

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Main street in Leland, Michigan. Image credit Frank Setili via Shutterstock.com

6 of the Most Overlooked Towns in Michigan

Michigan is fantastic to explore with its waterways, natural landmarks, historical sites, and the Great Lakes. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, big towns offer many activities but don’t overlook the smaller ones. They can surprise you with their charm and numerous fun things to do. Here are six of the most overlooked towns in Michigan.

Looking north along St. Clair River Drive in Algonac, Michigan

Algonac is a fabulous town to visit, especially in the summer. Right on the St. Clair River, this town offers a perfect getaway during the warm months. With cool breezes along the waterfront, you can sit and watch the freighters go between the United States and Canada. Yes, you can see to Canada from Algonac. The Algonac State Park is lovely to see birds and other animals. It also has an archery range and trap shooting range. And if you love biking, the Bridge to Bay Trail passes through the park. The Algonac Clay Historical Museum explains how Algonac is the birthplace of power boating and ChrisCraft. The must-do event is the Pickeral Tournament over the 4th of July weekend. This festival has fishing contests, boat parades, amusement rides and games, and one of the best fireworks displays in Southeast Michigan.

Armada is a small rural town 50 minutes north of Detroit filled with tree-lined streets and historic homes, a beautiful Memorial Park, and near the Macomb Orchard Trail. The downtown has several places to stop in to get a bite, including the Kozy Korner Saloon and the Creamery on Main where you can get a giant ice cream treat to share or keep for yourself. All year, family fun can be had at Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill. The children’s play area and petting farm will delight the little ones. Plus, it is a sight to watch the apple cider-making process. In the warmer months, you can pick seasonal fruits and vegetables like strawberries, apples, and pumpkins or enjoy the many on-site festivals, like the Lavender or Sunflower festivals. Before you go, stop into Blake’s Tasting Room to try the latest hard cider. Other things to do in Armada are to visit the Armada Flea Market and the Armada Fair. The Armada Fair has amusement rides, tractor pulls, animals, and more fun than you can enjoy.

Leland, a quaint fishing community in Michigan.

Leland, a small town on the shores of Lake Michigan in the Leelanau Peninsula, has plenty to offer visitors in this overlooked town. Leland is extremely picturesque, with the blue waters of Lake Michigan, a crystal-clear river, and the Carp River waterfall in the center of the historic Fishtown. This 1800s historic site has several fishing shanties for you to discover and enjoy the Fishtown Heritage Festival. Leland has plenty of areas to explore, like the historic district and the harbor, where you can do birding, strolling on the Leland River Walk, or experience the unique Leland Tree House.

In addition to the beautiful scenery, this is a fabulous wine area. The August Leland Wine and Food Festival is a fantastic event to sample the area’s cherry wine. You can enjoy a fabulous weekend getaway with all the numerous wineries and craft breweries. Also, don’t miss the Great Lakes Water Festival, where your family can enjoy food, art, and music. Other activities to experience are taking a scenic ferry trip to the Manitou Islands or driving 30 minutes to the scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes.

New Buffalo

New Buffalo is another small town on the shores of Lake Michigan, a little over an hour away from Chicago. From water sports, the Four Winds casino resort, art galleries, plenty of dining and brewery options, and nature parks, New Buffalo is a great small town for a summer vacation. Galien River County Park offers a unique view of the Great Lakes in its 86 acres of wild marshland. You can walk through the park on elevated walkways or climb the 60 feet tower to get a birds-eye view of the entire marsh. Some other water activities you can enjoy in New Buffalo are sailing excursions, paddling on the Galien River, or renting a boat or jet ski from Oselka Marina. More activities can be found on land by exploring New Buffalo’s Railroad history at the Train Museum on land or enjoying the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. New Buffalo is in a prime location of Michigan’s premier wine region for you to take tours and wine tasting throughout the area. Come for a weekend or a week in this lovely beach town in Southwest Michigan.

Beautiful summer at the town square in Northville, Michigan.

Northville is another small town in Michigan that is often overlooked. It has a lovely, walkable downtown filled with art galleries, theaters, boutique shops, breweries, and wonderful restaurants. Make sure to look out for the little fairy doors throughout the town. The Mill Race Village is a great area to explore. Run by the Northville Historical Society, it features late 1800s homes, a school, a church, a gazebo, and a blacksmith shop covering 11 acres. The Guernsey Farms Dairy offers visitors quality dairy products, including some of the best ice cream in the area and a restaurant on-site. During the fall, Northville has two cider mills for you to explore. Visiting Three Cedars Farm will put you up close with apples, pumpkins, and a fun barnyard playland. Since 1873, Parmenter’s Cider Mill has been offering visitors caramel apples, apple butter, and apple cider. There is even a winery and brewery for the adults visiting Parmenter’s Cider Mill.

St. Ignace is a small town in northern Michigan by the Mackinaw Bridge.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has some wonderful small towns, but one is often overlooked due to its closeness to Mackinac Island. St. Ignace is a great small town, especially in the summer. There are many family activities to enjoy, especially if you love the outdoors with the beaches, nature trails, and water activities like kayaking on the Straits of Mackinac or scuba-diving shipwrecks. The Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park has native and exotic animals in a well-cared-for, animal-friendly environment where you can feed many beautiful animals. Other places to visit are Castle Rock, the Mystery Spot, or bike or walk along the North Country Trail. There are also numerous places to explore if you want to take a day trip from St. Ignace, like the Cut River Bridge, the Soo Locks, Oswald’s Bear Ranch, and Tahquamenon Falls.

From nature parks, historic villages, water sports, cider mills, cherry orchards, wineries, and craft breweries to the rugged beauty of the extensive shoreline along the Great Lakes, which offers epic sunsets and sunrises, Michigan’s small overlooked towns deliver big getaway adventures. No matter what time of the year, these downtowns put out the red carpet for visitors, offering fantastic dining options, art, culture, festivals, and enough charm to make you want to extend your vacations. On your next vacation, consider visiting one of these overlooked towns in Michigan; you won’t be disappointed.

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The courtyard between Green Hall and Briggs Hall is sunny, and our trees are in full bloom. Spring is most definitely here.

And with it comes Picnic Day , the longstanding student-run UC Davis tradition, which is on Saturday, April 20. For those planning to attend, I hope you enjoy the fun and engaging activities across campus. From the parade to the doxie derby, there’s a lot to do and even more to see.

As in years past, Picnic Day coincides with Give Day, the largest single-day fundraiser on campus, which provides support for hundreds of programs, initiatives and organizations. This year's CBS challenges cover everything from student support to research and teaching infrastructure. You can give early and help us get a jump-start on meeting our challenge goals. Each gift, no matter the size, makes a difference.

I would also like to remind UC Davis alumni that there are changes coming to @ucdavis.edu email addresses. This is a good time for alumni to update their preferred, non-UC Davis email addresses in the campus database to ensure they continue receiving Biome . You can do so here .

As the weather continues to warm, I plan to make full use of the many bike paths here in Davis. If you’re in the area, maybe I’ll see you on the trail!

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Biggest, most unique, and accessible playgrounds in North Jersey to check out this spring

Are you and your kids getting bored of playing at the same local park every day after school? Lucky for you, there are a ton of big, unique, and accessible playgrounds scattered around North Jersey.

Plus, with warm weather on the way there are plenty of upcoming opportunities for you and your tot to check out some new playground spots.

Here are some of the biggest and most unique playgrounds in North Jersey, many of which are wheelchair accessible.

Essex County Regatta Playground, West Orange

Nestled within the South Mountain Recreation Complex is the Essex County Regatta Playground. The main structure of the playground designed to be a pirate ship. The main ship is surrounded by other structures including a climbing area, swing set and more. In addition, it is a fully fenced in playground area, according to reviews on Yelp .

It is also a great place to make a day out of with your family as it is located on the shore of the Orange Reservoir with paddle boating available seasonally. The complex features a picnic area, Safari Mini Golf, McCloone's Boathouse Restaurant, and the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo.

Dundee Island Park, Passaic

Dundee Island Park was completed in 2019 and features a large, fenced in playground and spray park as well as restroom and concession facilities, soccer fields, a river walk, a community garden and more.

The large, colorful play area features multiple slides, climbing areas, and large structures, as well as benches for the parents. Its bright greens and blues are supposed to represent the nature that surrounds the play area and immerse visitors into the surrounding environment.

Community Playground, Montville

The Community Playground of Montville is dubbed by NJ Playgrounds as one of the largest in Morris County.

With tons of different structures to check out around the massive play area, there is something for everyone from tall tube slides for the older kids, to imaginative play areas for younger kids, climbing, monkey bars, and more.

The playground also features a wheelchair accessible swing as well as ramps onto some of the play structures.

Van Saun County Park, Paramus

Van Saun County Park in Paramus has multiple large playground structures with slides, climbing areas, swings, a sandbox and more. One of the play structures is wheelchair accessible with ramps to each level and a handicap swing, according to NJ Playgrounds .

Van Saun County Park is another great place to spend a day as, in addition to the play structures, there are splash pads, pony rides, a carousel, a train ride, and access to the Bergen County Zoo.

Central Park of Morris County All-Access Playground, Parsippany

The playground at the Central Park of Morris County in Parsippany is accessible for all children. Sponsored by the New York Jets, the playground is specifically designed so all children can play together. The playground features swings, slides, and tunnels.

In addition to the playground, the park has multiple turf fields, softball and baseball fields, volleyball courts, a dog park, and more.

Castle Park, Chatham

Your kids can feel like kings and queens at the Castle Park playground in Chatham . The play area is complete with big and small castle-themed structures, a swing set, a rope climbing structure, and more.

Haworth Memorial Park, Haworth

The playground area at Haworth Memorial Park is also commonly referred to as Castle Park.

The large play structure provides numerous climbing opportunities which are a bit better suited for older kids, according to NJ Playgrounds . It has multiple slides, swings, a zip line, and more. The play area is partially fenced in and there are bathrooms nearby.

Watsessing Park's all-access playground, Bloomfield

The all-access playground at Watsessing Park opened in 2019 . It was built with special-needs children of all kinds in mind.

The play structures have wide landings and subtle ramps so children in wheelchairs can enjoy the space with their friends and other kids. The colorful playground is quite large with numerous ramps, swings, climbing areas, and more for all kids to enjoy.

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Joe Biden Fundraiser at Radio City Music Hall to Feature Barack Obama, Lizzo, Cynthia Erivo, Queen Latifah and More

By Jaden Thompson

Jaden Thompson

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President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden talk with senior staff following a bilateral meeting with Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany in the Oval Office, Feb. 9, 2015. Present are; Secretary of State John Kerry; Ben Rhodes, Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications; Press Secretary Josh Earnest; Communications Director Jennifer Palmieri; National Security Advisor Susan E. Rice; Lisa Monaco, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism and Senior Advisor Dan Pfeiffer. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

On March 28, the Biden-Harris campaign is hosting a fundraiser at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall, featuring former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton in addition to prominent figures from the entertainment industry. Described by Biden’s campaign as “historic” and the “most successful political fundraiser in American history,” the event is set to raise more than $25 million.

Mindy Kaling will host the event, which includes musical performances by Queen Latifah, Lizzo, Ben Platt, Cynthia Erivo and Lea Michele. More than 5,000 people are anticipated to show up at the iconic venue, with donations ranging from $225 to $500,000.

The fundraiser was put together by Biden-Harris campaign co-chair Jeffrey Katzenberg, Biden-Harris campaign finance chair Rufus Gifford, Biden Victory Fund finance chair Chris Korge and Anna Wintour. Jordan Roth and Alex Timbers are the producers of the event.

Katzenberg spoke of the campaign’s fundraising efforts in a statement: “This historic raise is a show of strong enthusiasm for President Biden and Vice President Harris and a testament to the unprecedented fundraising machine we’ve built,” he said. “Unlike our opponent, every dollar we’re raising is going to reach the voters who will decide this election — communicating the president’s historic record, his vision for the future and laying plain the stakes of this election.”

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The Most Fun States in America 2021
The United States is as vast as it is exciting! Stretching for
USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US
10 Most Fun States in America in 2022
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The Most "Fun" States in the US

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The 10 most fun states in America to visit this summer ...
Here are the 10 most fun states in America, according to WalletHub's report: ... as these destinations have been consistently ranked on travel blogs and reports as some of the best places to visit ...
U.S. States, Ranked from Least to Most Fun
While outdoor fun may be plentiful, the state's nightlife leaves much to be desired, making New Hampshire's score low enough to land it among the 10 most boring states. Where to have fun: New Hampshire offers great ski trails, especially near Mount Washington. That peak is also a summer play area, as is Franconia Notch State Park and the large ...
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Florida came in a close second with a score of 61.26. Rounding out the top 10 most fun states are Nevada, New York, Illinois, Colorado, Washington, Texas, Minnesota, and Louisiana. It was a close ...
10 Best States to Visit in the USA (+Map)
9. Wyoming. Tucked away in the rugged mountains of the Western United States, Wyoming is both wild and wonderful. Despite its large size, it is one of the most sparsely populated states in America. Here, you'll swap city sights and crowds for national parks, cowboy ranches, hot springs, and endless wilderness.
The Most Fun States in America 2021
The Keystone State ranks tenth on the list, thanks in part to hosting the fifth-most golf courses and country clubs per capita in the U.S. The Emerald State is fittingly green: 52% is forest, and ...
The Most Fun States to Visit in America
Rounding out the top five is Nevada, New York, and Illinois with fun scores of 58.19, 56.44, and 53.42 respectively. Out of all 50 states, the Empire State has the most performing arts theaters per capita, while Nevada came in first for its number of state and local expenditures on parks and recreation.
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Fun fact: California also has more national parks (nine) than any other state, which helped give it an edge. A new report ranked the most fun states in America—and the winner is California ...
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Hawaii rounds out the top 20 most fun states in America with a WalletHub score of 35.62. The Aloha State ranks 16th for entertainment and recreation as it's famously home to some of the best beaches in the world but ranks just 37th among the 50 states for nightlife, a category that takes into account access to bars and casinos as well as music festivals per capita and alcohol costs.
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WalletHub did a deep dive into all 50 states to find out which are worth a visit and which are a bore. In pinning down the most—and least—fun states in America, WalletHub looked at 26 key ...
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1. California — The Golden State and one of the best states in the USA. With rural villages, large cities, towering mountains, and ocean beaches — you can discover every bit of America within the borders of California. The Golden State offers travellers gorgeous views paired with some of the best year-round weather in the country.
These are the most fun states to visit in America in 2022: report
California was found to be the most fun state in 2022, according to WalletHub. Sacramento, California, is pictured. (iStock / iStock) WalletHub found that Maine had the highest variety of arts ...
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Glacier National Park. #1 in Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023-2024. Glaciers are the main draw of this Montana national park, but its more than 700 lakes, two mountain ranges and multiple ...
The Most Fun States in The US, Ranked, 2023
Plus, while fun is a big part of life, you may value spending time in the safest locations, versus the most traditionally entertaining.Or you might prioritize factors like home prices or healthy aging if you're planning on a later-in-life move. After all, home is where your heart is — regardless of the number of music festivals local to you.
These Ten States Have The Most Fun, According To Forbes
2 California. The West Coast state of California is indeed an enchanting paradise and just like Odyssey got detained in Ogygia, for seven years by the goddess - Calypso, vacationers who visit California might fall into the same trap of sweetness and forget time. Besides its beaches, vineyards, and parks, California is also famous for hosting ...
Top 24 US States To Visit In 2024
And for good reason. Home to iconic sites like the Hollywood Sign and Golden Gate Bridge (and one-of-a-kind natural areas like Yosemite and Joshua Tree ), California makes it onto this list of the top 24 states to visit in 2024 with a bang. Between lively cities (Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco) and quirky small towns ( Solvang, Mendocino ...
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29. Stowe, Vermont. If you appreciate the pastoral beauty of New England, Stowe, Vermont, might make your list of best places to visit in the USA. Dubbed the "Ski Capital of the East," Stowe is a classic alpine town, showcasing a charming village and ranking among the most idyllic places in the country.
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From Maria of San Diego Explorer. San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any USA bucket list. Also known as America's Finest City, San Diego has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts in San Diego, a fun time in the city, or a mix of both.
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Austin. #17 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit. With its lively bar scene and legendary live music options, Austin is the perfect place to let loose - but in a way that is uniquely Texan. Dance halls ...
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25. Tucson, AZ. Tucson, AZ. Shutterstock. Tucson, Arizona — home to the University of Arizona — was deemed the most affordable city in the top 25 most fun cities in America. It came in third ...
All 50 States Ranked, by a Man Who's Visited Each One at Least 3 Times
Apr 1, 2024, 10:40 AM PDT. Lee Abbamonte, who started blogging about his travels in 2006, has visited every state in America. Courtesy of Lee Abbamonte. Travel blogger Lee Abbamonte, 45, has ...
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Bethany Beach. #27 in Best East Coast Vacation Spots. Touted as one of the East Coast's best beaches, this Delaware town's calm waters and quaint boardwalk lend an air of simplicity perfect for a ...
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2. New York. New York is a state with fun activities for all families from the stunning Hampton beaches to the serene lakes, Niagara Falls, and the culture and arts. The state also has delicious food items for kids. They can enjoy foods from ramen burgers to ice cream and wine at numerous family-friendly vineyards.
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Here, we've rounded up some America's most kid-friendly attractions in popular destinations like San Diego, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, and lesser-known pint-sized paradises like Empire, MI; Huntsville, AL; and Bloomington, MN (hello, Mall of America) to help you whittle down the search for your next family vacation.
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Story by Max My Money. • 23h. 1 / 15. 10 States That Some Feel Are To Boring To Visit ©Provided by Flowing Cents. The United States homes 50 beautiful states. Each state has its own culture ...
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Algonac is a fabulous town to visit, especially in the summer. Right on the St. Clair River, this town offers a perfect getaway during the warm months. With cool breezes along the waterfront, you can sit and watch the freighters go between the United States and Canada. Yes, you can see to Canada from Algonac.
From the Dean: Spring Has Sprung
The courtyard between Green Hall and Briggs Hall is sunny, and our trees are in full bloom. Spring is most definitely here. And with it comes Picnic Day, the longstanding student-run UC Davis tradition, which is on Saturday, April 20. For those planning to attend, I hope you enjoy the fun and engaging activities across campus. From the parade to the doxie derby, there's a lot to do and even ...
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April 2, 2024. State Farm Stadium gears up to host the NCAA Men's Final Four, while fans eagerly anticipate the festivities both inside and outside the arena. (Photo by Noah Maltzman /Cronkite) PHOENIX - Tip-off for the first Final Four game is four days away, but preparation for Arizona's second college basketball finale started long ...
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The all-access playground at Watsessing Park opened in 2019. It was built with special-needs children of all kinds in mind. The play structures have wide landings and subtle ramps so children in ...
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The 10 most fun states in America to visit this summer, according to a new report

1. California

2. Florida

4. New York

5. Illinois

6. Colorado

7. Washington

9. Minnesota

10. Louisiana

U.S. States, Ranked from Least to Most Fun

50. Delaware

49. Mississippi

48. Indiana

46. Arkansas

45. Nebraska

44. Oklahoma

43. Connecticut

42. North Dakota

40. New Hampshire

38. Alabama

37. South Dakota

36. West Virginia

35. Rhode Island

34. Maryland

32. Minnesota

31. Vermont

30. Kentucky

29. Wyoming

28. Pennsylvania

27. Missouri

26. Montana

23. Wisconsin

21. South Carolina

20. Georgia

19. Michigan

17. New Jersey

16. New Mexico

14. North Carolina

13. Virginia

12. Illinois

11. Massachusetts

10. Tennessee

8. Washington

7. Colorado

5. Louisiana

4. New York

1. California

Here Are the Most (and Least) Fun States in the US

10 Best States to Visit in the USA

10. Washington

9. Wyoming

7. Colorado

4. New York

2. Florida

1. California

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It's Official, These Are the Most Fun States in America

The Top 20 Most Fun State in America

The best states to visit in the USA

1. California — The Golden State and one of the best states in the USA

What to do in California

Where to stay in California

What to do in Colorado

Where to stay in Colorado

What to do in Massachusetts

Where to stay in Massachusetts

What to do in Wisconsin

Where to stay in Wisconsin

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 9. Wyoming

 4. New York

 2. Florida

 1. California