usa top 5 places to visit

The top 12 places to visit in the USA in 2024

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

New York City never gets old, not with so many exciting and dynamic neighborhoods to explore © LeoPatrizi / Getty

The best thing about visiting the USA can be summed up in one word: variety. This expansive country contains an incredible number of travel experiences that would take a lifetime to complete – try wandering through the redwoods, breathing in deep gulps of sea air on glimmering beaches, or immersing yourself in the underground art scenes in some of the world's most famous cities.

Whether you're a nature lover looking for wide open spaces and snow-covered peaks or a culture fiend who can't get enough of museums and galleries, the USA has something for you. To help stem the overwhelm of options, these are our 12 favorite places to visit in the USA in 2024.

1. New York, New York

Best place for art and architecture

A city that looms large in American lore, New York continues to live up to its hype. A global center for art, fashion, finance, music and food, the Big Apple will never leave you feeling bored. Sip sunset cocktails on luxurious rooftops, mosh at local punk shows, marvel at world-class art in famous museums, or indulge in the best food you've ever had at a hole-in-the-wall favorite.

Planning tip: New York has so much to offer, but resist the urge to see it all on your first trip. Break things down by neighborhood or borough , or perhaps even by interest.

2. San Francisco, CA

Best for counter-culture

San Francisco contains multitudes, offering an urban travel experience with a distinctly West Coast flavor: take in breathtaking bay views at Golden Gate Park , wander the alleyways of the country's largest and oldest Chinese neighborhood , pay homage to LGBTIQ+ heroes in the Castro, or dive into cutting-edge art at SFMOMA and a plethora of local galleries.

3. National Mall in Washington, DC

Best for national history

Washington DC's National Mall represents the center of American political life and distills its cultural history into a two-mile strip of iconic monuments and the country's most famous museums. The mall contains ten Smithsonian museums – the National Museum of Natural History , the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Museum of American History, among others – plus landmarks including the National Gallery of Art, the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building.

4. New England

Best for forest drives

Want to meander on mountain roads beneath brilliant forest canopies and savor tasty lobster and coastal views all in the same trip? New England is the place to be. Explore the quaint villages and cranberry bogs of Cape Cod , snuggle into a cabin in the mountains of Vermont , or dive into all the seafood you can eat in Portland, Maine . And if you visit in autumn, prepare yourself for some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the country.

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Best for West Coast exploration

The Pacific Coast Highway – technically three highways linked together – connects sunny San Diego with moody Seattle , delivering epic West Coast experiences along the 1600-mile journey. Stay at kitschy motels in coastal towns, admire the cliffs of Big Sur , marvel at the tidepools in Oregon , and explore Washington's Olympic National Park .

Planning tip: Sections of the Pacific Coast Highway run along sea cliffs prone to rockslides. Always check road conditions before setting out in case of any unexpected closures.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for foodies and art lovers

There's no place in the world like New Orleans  – we promise. A vibrant cocktail of Indigenous, Caribbean, African, French and Spanish influences, this city possesses a unique magic that keeps people coming back for more. Dive into its legendary Creole cuisine, revel in its lively festivals, and immerse yourself in a world-class music scene – this is the birthplace of jazz, after all.

Planning tip: New Orleans's coastal location makes it susceptible to hurricanes from June through October, with the most active months being August and September.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for Indigenous history and culture

Nicknamed the "City Different," Santa Fe is rooted in American history while still keeping up with the times. A cultural melange of Indigenous, Spanish and Mexican influences, this city is home to numerous historical sites – like the 400-year-old Plaza – and a cutting-edge art culture that features a strong contingent of independent artists and the original Meow Wolf , a game-changing immersive art installation.

8. Chicago, Illinois

Best metropolis for midwestern charm

Chicago contains all the hallmarks of a great American city – excellent food, multicultural neighborhoods , top-tier museums – with a distinctly midwestern twist. Spend your days lounging next to the ocean-like Lake Michigan, catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field , or have an evening of laughs at Second City , the launchpad for greats like Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey.

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Best for big peaks and winter sports

If you want to see the quintessential mountains of the American West, the Rockies in Colorado should be your first stop. Rocky Mountains National Park is a logical starting point, but in truth, there are so many different ways to access this dynamic mountain range – hit the slopes in ski hubs like Vail , Aspen and Telluride, drive the scenic byways of the San Juan range, or pitch camp in one of the state's numerous national forests.

Planning tip: Unless you're from somewhere with similar elevation, you might feel the effects of altitude throughout the Rockies; stay extremely hydrated, take your time on hikes, and skip the alcohol.

10. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina and Virginia

Best for east coast mountains

While the Rockies tend to get a lot of press – for good reason – the USA's oldest mountain range is a must-see. The Blue Ridge Mountains make up the southern third of the Appalachian mountain chain, and the lush forests wrapped around these rolling hills make for incredible blue-green vistas from the region's many ridges and balds. Dive into the numerous day hikes, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway , or hike a section of the storied Appalachian Trail .

11. The Everglades, Florida

Best for wildlife watchers

The importance of the Everglades can't be overstated – this sprawling wetland is an International Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a national park, thanks to the diverse profusion of flora and fauna that live here. Paddle through the coastal estuaries and camp among mangroves, or whiz through the numerous waterways via airboat. All the while, keep your eyes peeled for wading birds, manatees, and of course, alligators and crocodiles.

Planning tip: For the best experience, come prepared for the elements: sunscreen and bug spray are essentials.

12. Southwestern Utah

Best for geology lovers

If you want to visit one place in the US that sums up the grandiosity of its natural history, southwestern Utah is the place to go. Home to five of the country's most spectacular national parks, Red Rock Country puts the region's geological past on display with a dazzling amount of artistic flair. Hike the peaks and valleys of Zion and Bryce Canyon , or marvel at the crimson, ochre and amber palette in the cliffs and canyons of Capitol Reef and Canyonlands . And if you want a special treat, watch the sun rise over the sandstone masterpieces at Arches .

Planning tip: Large swaths of this region are extremely remote and sometimes lack cell service, both on the road and on the trail. Always share your plans with others and bring plenty of water in case of emergencies.

This article was first published May 3, 2021 and updated Feb 23, 2024.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

My 31 Favorite Places to Visit in the USA

From sea to shining sea, the United States is home to a diverse landscape — both culturally and physically. Spending months traveling across it gave me a deep appreciation for all my country has to offer.

After traveling across the continental United States as part of multiple cross-country road trips (you never really realize how big Texas is until you drive through it. Damn that state is big!), I wanted to share some of my favorite places in the United States with you. I’ve already talked about my favorite restaurants and lessons learned , so it only seems proper to give you a list of the best places to visit in the USA when you come and travel here!

To help you get started, here’s a quick overview of some of the highlights:

Best destination for foodies: New Orleans Best destination for partying: Miami or Las Vegas Best destination for hiking/nature: Glacier National Park Best destination for history: Natchez Best destination for museums: Washington, D.C. or New York City Best destination for families: The Grand Canyon

In no particular order, here’s my detailed list of the best places to visit in the USA:

( Note: This list is based only on where I myself have been. There are a lot more incredibly breathtaking places I haven’t explored yet, which is why you don’t see them on this list!)  

WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS : Hostel Memphis – A hip hostel in a century-old building with a fully-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The hostel is also a non-profit that donates 100% of its profit to social justice causes around the city.  

Thanks to everything from the growing food truck population to the flagship Whole Foods store with the incredible salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat well — nonstop. The Austin campus of the University of Texas provides a youthful vigor to the city, and its liberal attitude attracts a diverse and eclectic population. In short, you can’t skip Austin, because if you do, I’ll find you and drag you there.

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN : Firehouse Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is located in an old firehall from 1885. They have fast Wi-Fi, plenty of chill common areas, and an amazing on-site bar that serves top-notch craft cocktails.

For more travel tips on Austin, check out these posts:

• My Complete Guide to Austin
• My Guide to Eating in Austin

3. New Orleans

WHERE TO STAY IN NOLA : HI New Orleans – An award-winning hostel with spacious dorms, comfy beds, privacy curtains, and fast Wi-Fi. Everything a budget traveler needs!

For more travel tips on traveling New Orleans, check out my suggested itinerary on how to spend 4 days there !  

4. Asheville

If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like! (And, if you haven’t, you should! The show is addicting!)

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE : Bon Paul & Sharky’s – A laid-back hsotel with a spacious front and back porch for relaxing. There’s free parking, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of nearby restaurants and cafes.  

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

WHERE TO STAY ON THE PACFIC COAST HIGHWAY : Airbnb – Airbnb is your best bet here, unless you have camping gear and want to camp in one of the many parks. There are also lots of cheap motels along the highway too.  

6. Redwood National Park

WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK : View Crest Lodge – Located on the coast in Trinidad, this rustic budget-friendly lodge has basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and TV, and some of their rooms also have full kitchens. It’s a clean, comfy no-frills place to crash for a night.  

7. Glacier National Park

WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK : Camping – Pack (or rent) a tent and cozy up for a few nights under the stars. You won’t be disappointed.  

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER : Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated one of the best in the country, offering a swank interior, free jacuzzi, outdoor firepit, comfy beds with blackout curtains, free parking, and more.  

And once the winter deep freeze is over, Chicagoans burst out of their homes to enjoy the summer weather, so there’s a positive, happy vibe emanating through the city. Take advantage of it.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO : HI Chicago – A spacious, clean hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and a great location. The beds are comfy and the common area is huge so it’s easy to meet people.

For more travel tips on Chicago, check out this detailed planning guide !  

10. New York City

WHERE TO STAY IN NYC : Jazz on the Park – Located near Central Park on the Upper West Side, this no-frills hostel is close to the train and is one of the more affordable places in the city. The dorms are basic and the beds aren’t winning any awards but it’s cheap (for NYC at least!).

For more travel tips on New York City, check out these posts:

• The Complete Guide to New York City
• The Best Walking Tours of New York City
• 21 Delicious Places to Eat in NYC
• How to Spend 4 Days in New York City

11. Natchez

Now, they are historic monuments, and you can tour them while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path — and my favorite discovery from my last road trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN NATCHEZ : The Guest House Historic Mansion – If you want to splash out, this 19th-century mansion includes free breakfast and spacious historic rooms as well as modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.

For more travel tips on Natchez,  check out this post on my visit there .  

12. Savannah

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH : Thunderbird Inn – This affordable three-star motel is just a short 5-minute walk from downtown. Boasting a retro vibe, there’s free coffee and juice every morning, as well as free donuts and popcorn available in the lobby.  

13. The Grand Canyon

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON : Camp – Pack (or rent) a tent and cozy up for a few nights under the stars. You’ll need to reserve a spot early though as they disappear fast!

For more travel tips on the Grand Canyon, read this post on hiking the canyon .  

14. Nashville

There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly and happy people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into great (though sometimes very one-sided) detail about the state’s history, but it’s more exciting than you might think.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE : Red Roof Inn – While it’s not centrally located, this is one of the city’s few affordable two-star options. A quick 13-minute drive from the Grand Ole Opry, this budget-friendly joint boasts an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and free coffee.  

15. San Francisco

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO : Green Tortoise – As one of the oldest in town, this hostel is an institution in San Francisco. It offers free breakfast, free dinners multiple times per week, and even a free sauna! It has a huge common room so it’s easy to meet people and has a very fun, social atmosphere.

For more travel tips on San Francisco, read these posts:

• The Complete Guide to San Francisco
• San Francisco Itinerary: Things to See & Do in 3 Days
• The Best Hostels in San Francisco

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI : Generator Miami – This hostel has a pool, two restaurants, a bar, and is just minutes away from the beach. It’s massive (there are 8 floors), the beds are more comfortable than the cheap ones you’ll find at the party hostels.

For more travel tips on Miami, check out this detailed planning guide !  

17. San Diego

The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy seafood restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls. I love San Diego .

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO : ITH Adventure Hostel – With a focus on sustainable travel (there’s a vegetable garden and backyard chickens), this chill hostel is very friendly and social. It’s clean, and the water pressure in the showers is decent, and the beds are comfy too.  

19. Lake Tahoe

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE : Camping – Pack (or rent) a tent and cozy up for a few nights under the stars. You won’t be disappointed.  

20. Anywhere in Montana

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA : Treasure State Hostel – Located in downtown Bozeman, this hotel is quiet, clean, and is home to friendly staff. They organize all kinds of events too, like pub crawls and movie nights, so it’s easy to hang out and meet people.  

21. Washington D.C.

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON : Highroad Hostel – Offering pod-style bunks, this cool hostel is located in an old Victorian mansion. The beds have memory foam mattresses, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, and the common area has a fireplace.

For more travel tips on Washington D.C., here are some other articles I’ve written:

• Travel guide to Washington D.C.
• Free Things to do in Washington D.C. in 2019

22. Cape Cod

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD : Cape Sands Inn – Just a short walk from the beach in West Yarmouth, this three-star property has all the standard amenities (TV, coffee/tea, free Wi-Fi), as well as free parking and a relaxing sauna and hot tub.  

It’s home to a ton of activities, like the Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall, the JFK Museum, and the Boston Commons and Public Garden, as well as some of the best Italian and seafood restaurants in the country. Be sure to eat at Zaftigs for the best brunch in the city! It’s wicked!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON : HI Boston – This spacious and clean hostel is just a short walk from pretty much everything in the city. They have female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and several chill common areas where you can meet other travelers.

For more travel tips on Boston, check out these posts:

• Travel guide to Boston
• Boston Itinerary
• Free Things to do in Boston

24. Las Vegas

Get off the Strip, explore the real Vegas (because technically the Strip is located in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why people decide to live here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS : Sin City Hostel – Just a short walk from the (in)famous Fremont Street, this is a social hostel that hosts all kinds of events (such as bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, casino nights, and more). It’s a great place to connect with other travelers.

For more travel tips on Las Vegas, these articles can help:

• Travel guide to Las Vegas
• 12 Things to do in Vegas That Don’t Involve a Casino
• How to be a High-Roller in Vegas on a Low-Roller Budget

25. Portland

Portland is just an awesome city, especially in the summer when the weather is perfect and there are festivals and events galore, like the World Domination Summit and the Portland International Beerfest.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND : HI Portland – Northwest – Rated one of the best hostels in the world, this centrally-located HI hostel offers free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outdoor courtyard with a firepit, regular live music, and much more. It’s a lively, social, and fun place to stay!

For more travel tips on Portland, read this post on the city .  

26. Seattle

WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE : Green Tortoise – Located right across from the iconic Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes all kinds of activities so it’s easy to meet people. They also offer free breakfast — a rare perk in the US!

For more travel tips on Seattle, read this detailed planning guide !  

27. Deadwood

WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD : Gold Country Inn – This kitschy hotel is one of the cheapest places in town. Located right downtown, they have a mini gambling hall on-site, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. It’s nothing fancy but it won’t break the bank either.  

28. Kansas City

WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY : Home2 Suites Downtown – With a fitness center, pool, and a decent breakfast spread, this three-star hotel in downtown KC is one of the more affordable places to crash in the city.  

29. Louisville

Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels much more like an Austin or a Portland than your traditional southern/midwest city. In the past, it was considered a fly-over city and was skipped by most people. It’s definitely not now.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE : Microtel Inn – While it may be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is affordable, includes free breakfast and free parking, and has free Wi-Fi. It’s a no-frills choice but clean and comfy.  

30. Charleston

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON : Charlestons NotSo Hostel – Located in a historic neighborhood, this laid-back hostel includes free coffee/tea and oatmeal and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are small but the beds are perfectly comfy.  

31. Franklin

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN : The Harpeth Hotel – This upscale property features a restaurant on-site, fitness center, bar, and terrace. If you don’t want to splash out, check Booking.com for other options.

The United States is filled with too many “must-sees” places to visit to list in a single blog post. After all, the country is home to over 329 million people and covers 3.8 million square miles.

But for those looking for a starting point for where to go, what to see, and the places to visit, this list should point you in the right direction and fill your time!

Just be sure to turn off the highways, head to the small towns, and discover some favorites of your own. The best of the USA is always away from the major highways in the little no-name towns with little diners, quirky shops, and friendly people!

For more travel tips on traveling the USA, read these other blog posts:

• How to Travel Across the USA on $50 A Day
• 19 Amazing Restaurants from My Road-Trip Across the U.S.
• 9 Things I Learned While Driving Across the U.S.
• Detailed Travel Planning Guide on The United States

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The 20 top tourist attractions in the USA

Discover the top tourist attractions in the USA, from national-park essentials to iconic structures to must-see streets

Visiting popular tourist attractions can often mean navigating long lines and crowds—essentially, a lot of work for an experience that sometimes doesn't live up to the hype. While some attractions may be a bust, specific landmarks across the United States are well worth the effort. 

The top tourist attractions in the USA span from coast to coast, including iconic  buildings  like the national monuments in Washington DC, must-stroll neighborhoods  like the French Quarter in New Orleans,  unique landmarks  like the Space Needle in Seattle, or sights within breathtaking national parks .

We have rounded up the top U.S. tourist attractions you should add to your bucket list. In your quest to check them off your list, make a trip out of it and book one of the best hotels in America . And if you’re looking for a bit more travel inspiration, check out the best places to visit in the USA right now.

An email you’ll actually love

Top tourist attractions in the USA

1.  National Mall | Washington DC

Immaculately maintained by the National Park Service, the National Mall and Memorial Parks feature more than 1,000 acres of must-see monuments, sites and green space. While the Washington Monument towers above all else—quite literally, the city doesn’t zone for buildings taller than the marble icon—the Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are just as magnificent. Though it will take a full day (or two) to see the National Mall, set aside some time to peruse through some of  Washington, D.C.’s top museums .

2.  Niagara Falls | New York State

Situated on the border of New York and Canada, the three waterfalls (Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridalveil Falls) have the combined highest flow rate of any waterfall worldwide. Their impressive force is nothing short of awe-worthy. A top tourist destination since the 19th century, the unstoppable beauty and charm of Niagara Falls  make it a memorable and unique landmark. 

3.  The French Quarter | New Orleans, LA

The oldest corner of New Orleans remains its most charming attraction. Walk down famous Bourbon Street to enjoy jazz, great nightlife and tons of food. While you travel on a streetcar between destinations, pay close attention to the spectacular architecture. And no trip to the French Quarter would be complete without a taste of authentic Cajun grub or a stop to pay your respects in the Cities of the Dead. 

4.  Statue of Liberty | New York City, NY

Though she may have been born in France, the Statue of Liberty has become synonymous with America and the country’s highest-held values. True, the 151-foot-tall copper monument can be seen up close from aboard the free Staten Island Ferry, but you can also pay your respects in person and even step inside it while on an official tour.

5.  Old Faithful | Yellowstone Park, WY

A cone geyser found in Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful is not entirely as predictable as it once was (it won’t erupt precisely every 74 minutes, for example) yet remains as historically exciting. When erupting, the geothermal feature unleashes more than 3,700 gallons of piping hot water. When you’re done marveling at the spectacle, spend at least a full day exploring the rest of the park.

6.  The Strip | Las Vegas, NV

Immortalized in a seemingly endless amount of movies, the Strip’s bright lights, larger-than-life performers and casinos are burned into our collective subconscious. Whether planning on trying your luck at poker or looking to catch a diva’s residency, the Strip is a top destination for all things entertainment and, yes, a bit of debauchery.

7.  Smithsonian Museums | Washington, D.C.

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Located in the heart of this nation's capital, you can explore the  National Air & Space Museum , the National Museum Of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, and many more. The best part? It's all free. The latest addition to the museum line-up, which opened in 2016, is the National Museum of African American History and Culture and is a must-visit. 

8.  The Grand Canyon | Arizona

So, about five to six million years ago, the Colorado River more or less established its route through the Arizona desert. Glacial erosion, meltwater runoff and the simultaneous counter effect of the land slowly rising—as the weight of the glaciers was reduced—ultimately resulted in one of the most spectacular natural wonders on our modest, little blue-green planet. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, varies between four and 18 miles wide and has a maximum depth of 6,000 feet. There are hotels and restaurants in key locations, but for the most part, you should visit and marvel at how incredible this world is—you know, before we ruin it.

9.  J. Paul Getty Museum | Los Angeles, CA

The Getty brings visitors from across the country and around the world to California. The $1 billion facility, designed by internationally renowned architect Richard Meier, features travertine and white-metal pavilions highlighting the complex’s futuristic frame. Inside, find one of the most exciting art collections—including Medieval manuscripts, paintings by Van Gogh and Monet, and modern sculptures.

10.  Kennedy Space Center | Orlando, FL

If you’ve always dreamed of working in outer space, this is your chance to see and touch models of space shuttles, rockets, satellites, tools and mission control rooms. The simulators and explorable modules will make you feel like an actual astronaut—though if you wonder just how much the experience compares to the real deal, you can meet one of those brave scientists in person at the Astronaut Encounter Theater.

11.  Golden Gate Bridge | San Francisco, CA

Name a more iconic bridge—we'll wait. There's a reason the Golden Gate Bridge is so famous. With its vibrant international orange color and spanning from San Francisco to the Marin headlines, stands as a symbol of the West. There are countless ways to take in the stunning bridge views: head to a beach (try Baker Beach), head to the new Presidio Tunnel Tops Park, go to a vista overlook, or get up close and personal by crossing the bridge by foot or bike. A trip to San Francisco isn't complete until you get a picture with the Golden Gate in the background.

12.  Little Havana | Miami, FL

After decades of serving as a home to Cuban exiles, Little Havana has become a must-visit destination in its own right. While out on the town, throw back rum-spiked Caribbean drinks and dance the night away to live rumba and salsa music. The food here is legendary : Cuban sandwiches, Colombian arepas, savory tacos and other Latin American dishes will leave your mouth watering.

13.  Hoover Dam | Nevada

Perhaps the best example of America’s building prowess in the first half of the 20th century, this dam remains a bewildering feat of engineering and labor. Construction started in 1931 and took five years, 5,000 workers and 3.25 million cubic yards of concrete to complete. Today, you can tour the dam and its power plant to learn more about the facility’s history and unique features.

14.  The Gateway Arch | St. Louis, MO

Not only is St. Louis’s premiere attraction the world’s largest arch, but it is also the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Standing proud at 630ft tall, this metal beauty was built in the mid-20th century as a monument to America’s westward expansion and is meant to signify the connection of the East to the West, honoring the country’s first pioneers. To fully understand this architectural wonder, snag a ticket to the Gateway Arch Tram and ride to the top of the monument.

15.  Mammoth Cave Park | Kentucky

With more than 400 miles explored, the world’s longest known cave system (by far) is in Kentucky and it welcomes any visitor not afraid of the dark or the damp. See the dramatic passages lined with geological formations that might inspire your inner explorer during a guided tour by a park ranger. The tours vary in length but they always include historic details about how the cave system was formed and how people and other creatures have interacted with it. After several hours in the caverns, appreciate the beauty of the clear waters and the untouched nature of the area while on a bike ride or canoe adventure.

16.  Space Needle | Seattle, WA

Like many famous landmarks, Seattle’s iconic Space Needle was built for the World’s Fair, back in 1962 when the theme was “The Age of Space.” Today, it remains one of the most recognizable and photographed landmarks worldwide for its futuristic design. Standing at 605 feet tall, visitors can take an elevator up to the tower’s saucer-shaped top floor with 360-degree views. Recent renovations resulted in a multi-level viewing experience with floor-to-ceiling glass viewing that will make your stomach drop.

17.  Navy Pier | Chicago, IL

Clearly, one of the Midwest’s most popular destinations, Navy Pier is visited by roughly nine million people each year. From excellent shopping opportunities to eateries and, of course, Lake Michigan, the destination offers something for everyone. The little ones will be delighted by the Chicago Children’s Museum , while grown-ups should head to the award-winning Chicago Shakespeare Theater . 

18.  Alcatraz | San Francisco, CA

This formidable fortress in the middle of San Francisco Bay was converted from a lighthouse station to a military prison in the 1870s. However, it found genuine acclaim after being upgraded to a maximum security prison in 1934, home to the early 20th century’s most notorious criminals. Today, the tiny island is only accessible to the public via a ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. You should plan to spend about three hours soaking up the amazing history and during that time, a self-guided audio cellhouse tour narrated by former inmates and guards will fill you in on harrowing escape attempts, prison riots and the 19-month-long occupation of the site by Native Americans demanding reparation for broken treaties in 1969. 

19.  Venice Beach | Venice, CA

Wedged in between Marina del Ray and Santa Monica, Venice Beach is one of the biggest draws for visitors to Los Angeles. It's firmly established as the bohemian epicenter of Southern California and you won't find a higher concentration of recognizable landmarks from film and TV anywhere else in Los Angeles. At weekends, during the summer, it gets pretty packed, but that just adds to the slightly chaotic atmosphere. Street acts add a carnival feel to the proceedings, plus, of course, the beach is just a few feet away. Try Hinano Cafe  for a great burger in a back-to-basics, spit 'n sawdust setting and the newly refurbished Pier House for classic cocktails as the sun sets over the Pacific.

20.  Alamo Mission | San Antonio, TX

Most Americans know the phrase 'Remember the Alamo' even if they’re not exactly sure what transpired at the 18th-century Spanish mission. Later secularized and used as a fortress, 1836 the Alamo was the site of a bloody and decisive battle of the Texas Revolution between Texas’s early Anglo settlers and Mexico (the latter won). One of the most visited historic sites in the country today, the fort welcomes about three million visitors annually. 

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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.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.  

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. 

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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 . 

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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!

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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!

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.

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!

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:

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 .

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the USA

Written by Lana Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

The United States is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world and some of the most recognizable icons on the planet . Many of the top attractions in the United States are bucket list destinations, drawing visitors from around the world.

Compiling a list of places to see is step one. But keep in mind, given the size of the United States, most people plan their trips to a specific region, be it the East Coast, the Southwest, the beaches of Florida or California , or outlying regions like Hawaii and Alaska.

You may want to see the city sights, or head out to the top parks and natural areas in the US . In some cases, you can easily combine the two if you plan a day trip or two.

Plenty of options await you, with incredible sights sprinkled across the country. For anyone in the enviable position of having unlimited time and resources, these are the top attractions to include on your US itinerary.

1. Grand Canyon

2. niagara falls, 3. statue of liberty, 4. white house, 5. walt disney world resort, 7. las vegas strip, 8. yosemite national park, 9. golden gate bridge, 10. times square, 11. freedom trail in boston, 12. yellowstone national park, 13. san antonio river walk, 14. kennedy space center, 15. st. louis arch, 16. glacier national park and the going-to-the-sun road, 17. mount rushmore national memorial, 18. sedona's red rock country.

This incredible natural attraction is one of the most visited places in the United States. Carved out by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon cuts deep into the landscape, creating dramatic cliff walls and ledges. Visitors standing on the rim of the canyon can see down to the canyon floor a mile below, and look out over the ridges and cliffs that run as far as the eye can see.

The South Rim , about 4.5 hours by car from Las Vegas, is the most visited section of Grand Canyon National Park. This is where you'll find a large visitor center, regular bus service along the Rim in the high season, and a walkway that runs along the canyon with numerous viewing points and platforms. Several wonderful hikes , including the Bright Angel Trail, leave from here.

The Skywalk , a glass bridge leading out over the edge of the Grand Canyon is another popular attraction. It is located at Eagle Point, on the West Rim . This area is about a four-hour drive from the South Rim, but usually less than a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas. If you are planning a day trip from Las Vegas, this area is a good option

The North Rim, which also has lookout areas, provides a different perspective. This section of the park is less visited and has limited access from November to May due to snow and winter conditions.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions at the Grand Canyon

Situated along the Canada-US border, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world . The water from Lake Erie flows into Lake Ontario over these massive waterfalls, known for the great quantity of water that is constantly tumbling over the vertical drop.

Niagara Falls is actually a set of three falls: It consists of the largest section, known as Horseshoe Falls, with a drop of 187 feet; a second section on the American side of the river, known as the American Falls, with a drop of 89 feet; and a much thinner section located next to the American Falls, known as Bridal Veil Falls, with a drop of 78 feet.

Views are good on both sides of the river, but the Canadian side gives a very different perspective and is worth a visit if you don't mind crossing the border into Canada.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Niagara Falls, when the weather is warm, gardens are in bloom, and wandering around is pleasant. Winter provides a unique opportunity to see the snow-covered shores and ice-covered railings, street signs, and trees. It's truly a winter wonderland.

On clear days, the plume of mist rising from Niagara Falls can be seen from as far away as the CN Tower in downtown Toronto, Canada, on the opposite shore of Lake Ontario.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, NY
• From New York City to Niagara Falls: Best Ways to Get There

A universal symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty is America's most familiar icon and the largest statue in the world . Standing proudly in New York Harbor, visitors can admire the statue from various points around the city, particularly Battery Park, or take a ferry right to the statue.

For people who plan to go out to the statue, options include grounds tickets, pedestal tickets, or crown tickets, which allow different levels of access to the site. One of the best options is to take a sightseeing tour and see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States, and should be on the top of your list of things to see in Washington . This historic structure has been the home of every president except George Washington. Lafayette Park is on the north side of the White House; beyond is a pedestrian-only zone, full of interesting characters, and an excellent spot to get a great photo.

It was originally built by James Hoban in 1792 and, after being burned down by British forces in 1814, was rebuilt in 1818. Tours of the White House are free, but reservations must be made a minimum of three weeks in advance. Strict security rules are always in effect.

Official site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/

This mega amusement park in Orlando is the top family attraction in America, and has been catering to both young and old for decades. Opened in 1971, Walt Disney World has managed to maintain its relevance and its allure for children and even many adults throughout the years.

Walt Disney World Resort encompasses not only the various theme parks, it also includes water parks, Downtown Disney with shopping and theaters, and much more, from fine dining to golf. This is a place where you can spend a day or a week.

If you feel the need for a bit of sand and surf, the beaches of Florida's Atlantic coast are only an hour away.

Home to the most popular beach in the Hawaiian Islands and possibly the most famous beach in the Pacific, Waikiki has been a tourist destination for over a century. Today this area is a cross between tropical paradise and modern city.

Relaxing on this beautiful stretch of sand with palm trees blowing in the wind will certainly let you know you are in the tropics, but the high-rise buildings and busy street in behind are a reminder that you are not far from civilization. Shopping, dining, surfing, and sunbathing are all part of what makes this small section of Oahu so popular with tourists of all ages from all parts of the world.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things To Do in Waikiki

Walking along the Las Vegas Strip, the main street leading through the city past the mega resorts, is like strolling through an amusement park for adults. Recreations of the New York skyline, the Eiffel Tower, the canals of Venice, and many more foreign sites line this famous street.

Beginning at one end with the Luxor Hotel, designed in a pyramid shape, a walk down the street will reveal an erupting volcano and dancing fountains, while inside the resorts are all kinds of oddities and entertainment. Many of the best things to see and do in Las Vegas are sights that can be seen for free.

One of the main attractions in Las Vegas is the constant lineup of shows. World-famous singers looking to settle down turn to Las Vegas as a home base, where they perform regularly. Unique performing groups from magic to comedy and acrobatics can also be found here nightly.

When you've had enough of the nightlife and city lights, you can still explore the nearby attractions on a day trip from Las Vegas . See nearby Death Valley National Park, Hoover Dam, or Valley of Fire State Park. Explore the desert on hiking trails around Las Vegas , some of which are just minutes from downtown.

One of America's most loved parks, Yosemite National Park is one of the best places to visit in California , particularly for nature lovers. Famous sights, like the incredible granite domes of El Capitan and Half Dome, have to be seen in person to fully appreciate their grandeur. The massive waterfalls that tumble off sheer cliffs from mountain snowfall or sudden summer rainstorms are another of the park's highlights.

Yosemite National Park is full of activity-based things to do that include hiking, climbing, walking, and horseback riding. Hiking trails in Yosemite lead to some of the most scenic areas and are a good way to escape the crowds at lookouts.

For those less inclined to be physically active, the sheer natural beauty of Yosemite can be enjoyed from a picnic table over a leisurely home-packed lunch. You can also see the highlights on a driving tour through the park.

Accommodation is limited in the park to several lodges and a number of very nice campgrounds . Outside the gates, more options are available.

Arching across San Francisco Bay, joining San Francisco and Marin County, the Golden Gate Bridge has been a California icon since it was built in the 1930s. Contrasting with the blue water, the bridge's orangish-red color is an aesthetic accent that brings a unique quality to the city.

It also has a unique presence when it's shrouded in fog with just the peaks of the main towers projecting through the low-lying cloud. The bridge is approximately two miles long and part of Hwy 101 or SR 1. If the day is clear, one of the best viewing spots is on Conzelman Road, located in Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in San Francisco

Bustling Times Square, famous for its flashing billboards, New Year's Eve count down, and constant throngs of people, lies at the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This intersection, in normal times, is really about the energy one feels when standing on the corner as taxi cabs rush by and lights flash overhead, rather than any individual site on the square.

While it is an interesting place to visit during the day, it is probably best seen at night to experience the full impact.

Boston's Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking route that leads past some of the city's most important historical attractions. A line of red bricks, inlaid in the sidewalk marks the route, making it an easy way for tourists to find their way around.

Information on the trail and the sites can be found at the Visitors Center in the Boston Common , which is a good place to start your tour. Sites along the Freedom Trail include the State House, Old State House, the Old Granary Burying Ground, Old City Hall, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and many more.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston

Yellowstone National Park is home to a huge ancient volcano, which has resulted in a dramatic landscape and awesome natural phenomena. Geysers and hot springs, along with incredible waterfalls along the Yellowstone River are just some of the attractions drawing in huge numbers of tourists each year.

The park, the oldest national park in the USA, is also home to all kinds of wildlife, with free-roaming bison, bighorn sheep, antelope, black bears, and grizzly bears.

The park is also a wonderful place to camp, with a total of 12 Yellowstone campgrounds containing 2,000 sites.

Read More: Visiting Yellowstone National Park: Attractions, Tips & Tours

San Antonio's River Walk is a beautiful location and a great place to spend some time, whether you are looking for a place to wander, enjoy a meal, or look for souvenirs. Stretching along the San Antonio River in the heart of the city, this pedestrian area is lined with restaurants and outdoor dining areas, with everything from casual to fine cuisine.

Small boats meander along the river and scenic arching bridges complete the tranquil scene. Large old trees drape over the river and walkway providing shade. The River Walk also features a variety of entertainment, with occasional live music and seasonal events.

Official site: http://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

For those who have ever dreamed about what it would be like to blast off into space, a trip to the Kennedy Space Center is a must-do. The spacecrafts of NASA along with the history of space exploration make for an entertaining and educational experience. This is a popular attraction with all ages and one of the top things to do in Florida .

You may think that your visit will be a quick one; see a few spaceships and then head on your way. However, many people are surprised when they become fully engrossed in their visit and end up spending most of the day at the center.

Things to see include the rocket garden, the real Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Heroes and Legends exhibit, and the Journey to Mars exposition, along with many others.

Official site: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/

This famous "Gateway to the West" in St. Louis is both symbolic and eye-catching. Rising above the city, gleaming in the midday sun and illuminated at night, the arch can be seen from miles away on the otherwise flat surroundings.

It was built in the early 1960s and stands in Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park . Elevators offer easy and scenic transportation to the top of the arch where visitors are treated to great views out over the city and surroundings.

Official site: https://www.gatewayarch.com/

Montana's Glacier National Park offers some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the United States. Mountains, lakes, glaciers, valleys, and waterfalls combine to form a spectacular alpine landscape.

One of the best ways to truly appreciate the terrain is from the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. This narrow road, hugging the mountain side as it winds its way up and over the 7,747-foot Logan pass, opened in 1932.

Due to the elevation and climate, the road is only open during the summer months. The sights along this road are superlative, and you'll likely find yourself stopping at handy pullouts to soak it all up.

Glacier National Park also has some unique historic lodges, including the East Lodge, with it's huge timbered interior. The park is also a top hiking destination in the state. Hiking trails lead to wonderful alpine vistas if you're willing to put in a bit of effort.

The park is relatively isolated, so most people plan to visit for a few days. Accommodation is available in the historic lodges and hotels in West Glacier, and if you feel like camping in Glacier National Park , 13 campgrounds are available.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

Read More: Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park

If you find yourself in South Dakota, don't miss a chance to see Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Towering above the surrounding forest are the faces of four US Presidents: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt.

This incredible achievement was created by one man, John Gutzon de la Mothe Borglum, and upon his death, finished off by his son Lincoln. The hard work of carving giant heads out of stone started in 1927 and continued on for many years until its completion in 1941.

The national memorial is a popular attraction, especially in the summer. Try to plan to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Just a wonderfully scenic two-hour drive from Phoenix, this small city has quickly become one of Arizona's top places to visit .

Its beautiful setting, in among the red rocks, makes it perfect for a day trip from Phoenix , but it makes an even better vacation destination. Plan on spending at least a night or two to enjoy all Sedona has to offer. The town has some fantastic restaurants as well as spas and luxury resorts in and around town.

Sedona has a bit of everything when it comes to keeping busy: fantastic hiking , mountain biking , and camping , all coupled with a quirky vibe that makes a trip here fun for everyone.

Sedona is a year-round destination, but is especially popular in the spring, when the trees burst into bloom and you get the occasional desert rain storm.

Read More: Top-Rate Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Sedona

More on United States

Top 12 Places to Visit in the US

The United States has so many diverse cities and attractions that it is difficult to narrow down the list to the 12 top travel destinations. These are the destinations most often cited as the places to see before you die, another version of saying they should be on your bucket list—and offbeat and trendy spots are not included here. That's another topic altogether.

This list is an introduction to the best and most popular places in the United States, from hotspots in New York City to when to see the cherry blossoms in Washington.

New York City

TripSavvy / Donghee Eim

American icons like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square are on every first-time visitor's list. Still, they are just a few of the attractions to see in New York City , America's most populous and most popular city. Also known as the "Big Apple," New York City is a favorite destination for both domestic and international visitors . 

Don't miss a leisurely walk on the High Line, an old-railroad-track-turned-park with greenery, artwork, and beautiful skyline views. Broadway and the Theater District is the place to see the latest plays and musicals. If you're an art lover, New York has an embarrassment of riches: the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim Museum, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Frick Collection.

Or go shopping on Fifth Avenue, check out Washington Square, Greenwich Village, and Rockefeller Center, take a walk through Central Park, and get awed by Grand Central Terminal. If you're staying for more than a few days, dig deeper into NYC's architecture or make a trip to Brooklyn.

Los Angeles

The lure of Hollywood and its celebrities and the mild breezes from the Pacific Ocean keep  Los Angeles  on the top of the list of U.S. tourist destinations. Search for Los Angeles's best hotels near the city's famous beaches like Malibu or Santa Monica for a luxurious stay. Go shopping on Rodeo Drive, tour Beverly Hills, and walk along the boardwalk in LA's most famous beachfront neighborhood, Venice Beach . 

Chicago has long been called the "Second City," coming in second to New York City in size and population. A beacon in the Midwest, Chicago is third in population these days, but it has a skyline, restaurants, shopping, museums, and activities that easily rival New York and Los Angeles. If it's baseball season, don't miss seeing a Cubs game at the famous Wrigley Field. Check out the Magnificent Mile, where you'll find every upscale shop imaginable and fantastic restaurants. Chicago is home to some of the nation's most important buildings, and you can see them all on a guided architecture tour on land or from a boat on Lake Michigan. The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the top art museums in the country, and Millennium Park is Chicago's newest attraction. 

Washington, D.C.

 Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

Washington , D.C., the capital of the United States, has miles of museums and monuments—almost all of which are free. That's one reason it is one of the most visited cities in the country, especially for families and school groups. It's the perfect place to learn about U.S. history at places like Mount Vernon, George Washington's plantation; Ford's Theater, where Abraham Lincoln was shot; the White House; the Capitol; Georgetown; and Alexandria, along with museums like the Smithsonian, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of African-American History and Culture, and the National Museum of the American Indian. You can overdose on museums if you add the United States Holocaust Museum, the Newseum, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, the Hirshhorn Museum, and the National Gallery of Art.

The famous cherry blossoms are typically in full bloom from late March to early April along the Tidal Basin, where you can also see the Jefferson Memorial and memorials to Franklin D. Roosevelt and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Don't miss the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II, Korea, and Vietnam Veterans memorials on the National Mall.

Most people go to Las Vegas to try their luck at its famous casinos. But Las Vegas also has blockbuster shows, world-class shopping, and top-notch restaurants, all of which make this city a true desert oasis and a top travel destination. Take a tour of the MGM Grand, try your luck at the Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino, or walk through the Neon Museum , which showcases iconic Las Vegas signs. And, of course, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

San Francisco

Symbolized by the red rafters of the Golden Gate Bridge, this legendary city on San Francisco Bay is known for its neighborhoods, like Chinatown and the hippie-turned-haute enclave of Haight-Ashbury . While San Francisco is an ideal city for nature lovers and the jet set , it is also a great jumping-off point for trips to Napa Valley and Sonoma County wine country or to the colossal tech campuses of Silicon Valley. Check out the Bay Area's top hotels before you go and make San Francisco your base to discover Northern California.

New Orleans

New Orleans is all about festivals, French roots, and a "laissez-faire" attitude, making it a distinctly different—and popular—destination for both American and international travelers. From Mardi Gras, New Orleans' biggest party, to Jazz Fest, one of the world's most respected gatherings of jazz musicians, there are plenty of ways to "let the good times roll" in the Big Easy. For the most authentic experience, stay in the French Quarter, where you'll be close to legendary restaurants and streets like Bourbon. And it's just a short drive from Frenchman Street, where you can hear the live jazz music New Orleans is famous for.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville sits right on the Blue Ridge Parkway, with its spectacular views across the southern Appalachians and the Appalachian Trail, which runs right down Main Street. Its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains makes it a jumping-off point for hiking or jaw-dropping drives. Rent a convertible for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In town, check out the Biltmore, the largest privately-owned estate home in America, built by Goerge W. Vanderbilt in the Gilded Age. It makes for jaw-dropping of a different sort. Spend evenings in downtown Asheville, bursting with music, art, and restaurants worthy of serious foodies.

Say "aloha" to Hawaii , a top U.S. destination that's a quintessential island paradise. From the natural beauty of its beaches and volcanoes to its rich Pacific culture, Hawaii is the perfect destination if you're looking to really get away from it all. It's definitely a relaxing oasis with ideal weather no matter when you decide to go; average highs range from 79 F in the winter to 84 in high summer, with average lows of 68 in the winter and 75 in the summer. Go hiking on the island of Kauai, see humpback whales in Maui, or play with fire at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Sedona and the Grand Canyon

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

An incredible geological wonder stretching over 250 miles, the Grand Canyon is a deep ravine carved out by the Colorado River over thousands of years. Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is a top destination to visit in the Southwest and one of the most popular U.S. national parks. Take a drive of about two hours south of the Grand Canyon to Sedona, surrounded by stone formations of many colors that change with the light. USA Weekend called it one of the most beautiful places in America. Amid this spectacular landscape, you'll find great eating, luxurious lodging, and many art galleries and shops.

Miles of beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions like Walt Disney World, and the Latino culture and Art Deco style of Miami make Florida a top-of-the-list travel destination. You can soak up the sun on beaches that line the Emerald Coast in the Florida Panhandle, the western Gulf Coast, or the Atlantic, enjoy the rides in Orlando, or have a blast in Miami's South Beach culture. Check out Tampa and St. Petersburg, or explore the Everglades. Mostly, Florida is all about getting away and basking in its famous sunshine, which is a massive draw in the wintertime for Americans in most of the rest of the country.

The drive down the coast of California on California Highway 1, aka the Pacific Coast Highway, is legendary. The road through Big Sur and the Central Coast, covering about 163 miles from Carmel to San Simeon, is a visual feast of winding turns and cliffs with the waves of the blue Pacific as a backdrop. (It takes about three hours to drive.) It's been memorialized in song, film, and books, and it's just simply one of the most unforgettable places in the United States. Check out the Carmel-Monterey area on the north end and visit Hearst Castle in San Simeon at the end of the drive.

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USA Travel Bucket List: 50 Places to Visit Before You Die

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

While we’re often daydreaming of beaches in the Maldives and vineyards in Tuscany, there are plenty of amazing destinations in our own backyard. To help you with your bucket list, we’ve rounded up 50 places you must visit in the United States before you die — in no particular order.

1. New York City

One of the most-visited places in the world, New York City has numerous attractions, a multicultural population, and something for all types of travelers. Tourists should be sure to fit in a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square. Central Park offers a respite from the crowds, museums are impressive, and a show on Broadway followed by a slice of pizza is an ideal night out.

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The second-most popular national park in the U.S., the Grand Canyon in Arizona wows with its Colorado River-formed canyon, which stretches 277 miles long and over a mile deep. Visitors can see the park from scenic lookout points, via a stunning helicopter ride , during whitewater rafting, while riding a mule, or by hiking down and back.

3. Disney World, Florida

One of the most magical places for people of all ages, the massive Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando has four fun theme parks. Magic Kingdom has the breathtaking Cinderella Castle and nightly fireworks shows, while Epcot allows park-goers to travel around the globe by showcasing 11 different countries — think a pagoda in Japan, a biergarten in Germany, and Eiffel Tower views in France.

 4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Vibrant, historic, and downright fun, New Orleans is a popular city throughout the year. While most people know about the city’s rambunctious Mardi Gras celebrations, NOLA also offers world-class jazz music, delicious Creole and Cajun cuisines, art galleries, ghost tours, and notable buildings such as the 18th-century St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is best explored with a coffee and beignet or a frozen cocktail in hand.

5. San Antonio Missions, Texas

Sure, you probably know about The Alamo in San Antonio, but it’s actually one of five Spanish missions found across the city. The oldest is Mission Espada , which was built in 1690; original frescoes are still visible inside Mission Concepcion ; and the largest is Mission San José . Visitors can bike or drive between the missions, and park rangers provide free tours.

6. Niagara Falls, New York

While we’d argue that Niagara Falls is more impressive from the Canadian side , you can still witness the three stunning waterfalls without a passport. Head to Prospect Point in Niagara Falls State Park for a stellar vantage point, or consider a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a more up-close-and-personal view. Also worth a visit is Cave of the Winds , which is set behind Bridal Veil Falls and offers visitors a sensational view of the falls, often accompanied by a beautiful rainbow.

7. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Opened in 1937, the famous Golden Gate Bridge is an orange-colored suspension bridge that impresses with its main span of 4,200 feet and a total height of 746 feet. It connects San Francisco to Marin County, where the Golden Gate National Recreation Area has hiking, historical attractions, and lovely vistas of the bridge and San Francisco. After snapping a photo on land, travelers can bike or walk across the bridge for more picturesque views.

8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Both a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most frequented national park in America. The gorgeous park is located in both Tennessee and North Carolina, and it has tons of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and water tubing. Fall also offers striking foliage.

9. Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see where the government is run. From the White House to the Capitol to the Supreme Court Building, all three branches of government are found here, in addition to historical monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial , the Washington Monument , and World War II Memorial . Visitors can also spend hours touring the various Smithsonian museums within the National Mall .

10. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

One of the most well-known geological features in the country, Old Faithful , is a cone geyser within Yellowstone National Park . It was discovered in 1870 and got its name from its frequent and generally predictable eruptions, which occur about every 60 to 110 minutes. An average eruption is 130 to 140 feet high, expelling 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of water (depending on the length of the eruption).

Related: The 6 Best National Parks for Winter Wildlife Spotting

11. South Beach, Miami

South Beach is Miami‘s trendy hot spot, home to one of the prettiest beaches in America, gorgeous Art Deco architecture, tasty Cuban fare, and popular nightlife spots. A Latin American influence pervades the city at large, and in South Beach, tourists can shop at fancy boutiques, eat cheap Cuban sandwiches, and lounge at posh beach clubs . A beachside boardwalk is great for strolling or biking and, of course, people-watching.

12. The Narrows, Zion National Park

Within Utah’s Zion National Park , The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. It’s the park’s most popular hike due to its striking setting within a gorge, where the river acts as the trail. Hikers must wade in water that varies from ankle- to waist-deep. It’s particularly pleasant in the hot summer months, but visitors should stay on top of weather conditions, as it’s known for dangerous flash flooding.

13. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is a charming artsy town with a strong Native American influence. Pueblo-style architecture, a central plaza where vendors sell various handicrafts, and historic sights such as Loretto Chapel give the city a unique feel, plus there’s plenty to keep busy throughout the year. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine are additional highlights.

14. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Whether you choose to drive the entire 659 miles of the Pacific Coast Highway or just a fraction thereof, you’ll be rewarded with sensational vistas. Certain routes can be done in a day, but we recommend taking your time by starting in San Francisco and slowly making your way to Orange County. The best views are arguably in Big Sur, where you’ll find rugged cliffs against the ocean on one side and redwood forests on the other.

15. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Just outside of Washington, D.C., is Arlington National Cemetery , which spans 624 acres and houses the graves of 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their families. The graves of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis are frequently visited, as is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains haven’t been identified. The moving Changing of the Guard can be witnessed every 30 or 60 minutes while the cemetery is open, depending on the time of year.

16. Nashville, Tennessee

Even those who don’t love country music will likely be enamored with Nashville, Tennessee. Excellent restaurants and hip bars make for a thriving nightlife scene, and the live music — much of which is country — on Broadway is not to be missed. Top attractions include Centennial Park for its full-size replica of Greece’s Parthenon, the Grand Ole Opry concert hall, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

17. Freedom Trail, Boston

Boston played a large part in America’s independence, and the city’s Freedom Trail passes through 16 historically significant locations. The two-and-a-half-mile trail takes visitors to Boston Common (America’s oldest public park), the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere’s House , and the USS Constitution (the oldest commissioned ship that acts as a museum today).

18. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Located in southern California, east of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a dreamy destination known for its distinctive-looking namesake trees, big boulders that are ideal for rock climbing, and stellar stargazing opportunities . Visitors can drive through, hike around, camp, or ride horseback through the desert landscape.

19. Road to Hana, Maui

The top attraction in Maui on TripAdvisor, the Road to Hana (Hana Highway) is a 64.4-mile drive that connects Kahului, where the airport is located, to the town of Hana on Maui’s more rugged east coast. The drive is not for the faint of heart, as it has over 600 switchbacks and 56 one-lane bridges, but the speed limit never surpasses 25 miles per hour. Travelers who hit the road are rewarded with spectacular lush greenery, stunning black-sand beaches, multiple waterfalls, and spots to buy banana bread.

20. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Colorado

Located about a 30-minute drive outside of Denver, the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is an open-air concert and entertainment venue. The entire theater, including the seating, was built into the red rocks, which make for a phenomenal acoustic experience. Tourists can run up and down the steps in the morning and see big-name acts at night. Past performers include The Beatles, U2, Coldplay, and John Denver.

Related: Maui vs. Kauai: Which Hawaiian Island Is Better for You?

21. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is where the Colorado River takes a horseshoe-shaped bend in Glen Canyon. Visitors to Horseshoe Bend have skyrocketed since it gained recognition through Instagram. It’s easily accessible, as travelers can hike a one-and-a-half-mile round-trip trail from a parking lot off the highway.

22. Austin, Texas

The capital of Texas, Austin, is a hip, youthful city where low-frills barbecue joints and big-name tech corporations coexist. From stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Austin to topless sunbathing at Barton Springs Pool , there are a lot of ways to beat the daytime heat. Nights can be spent at upscale restaurants, Sixth Street bars with live music, or watching bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Buy a University of Texas T-shirt and some cowboy boots while you’re there.

23. Space Needle, Seattle

An iconic landmark in Seattle, the Space Needle is an observation tower that was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. With its antenna, it rises 604 feet, allowing for panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding water. A 100-million-dollar renovation included the creation of the Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. A cafe and wine bar entice visitors to linger.

24. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Located in South Dakota, this famous landmark depicts four American presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore . Constructed between 1927 and 1941, the sculpture features the 60-foot heads of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

25. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico

Every year since 1972, Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta, in which the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons. For nine days in October, families and friends gather to watch the largest balloon festival in the world.

26. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Another top attraction (and the most-photographed) within Yellowstone National Park is the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest hot spring in the United States, measuring 370 feet in diameter. It’s best viewed from above, as the spring has vibrant bands of rainbow colors.

27. Griffith Observatory, California

Situated on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, Griffith Observatory is a popular observatory with free admission. It has stellar views of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles, and visitors can use telescopes, the planetarium, various events, and a cafe.

28. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Completed in 1932, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a two-lane highway that allows visitors to traverse the 50-mile width of Glacier National Park . Various scenic lookouts and noteworthy hikes can be found off the road, and it crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Due to weather conditions, it generally doesn’t open until late June or early July.

29. Las Vegas, Nevada

Whether for a bachelorette party, Celine Dion concert, or business conference, there’s a good chance you’ve at least thought about going to Las Vegas. Sin City is renowned for its world-class casinos, nightlife, and celebrity-chef-helmed restaurants, not to mention rowdy pool parties with famous DJs. It’s not all debauchery, though, and many kid-friendly activities dot the city.

30. Acadia National Park, Maine

Maine‘s beauty is undeniable, and that’s perhaps best displayed at Acadia National Park . Located near Bar Harbor, the 47,000-acre park sits along the coast and offers ample wildlife, such as moose and peregrine falcons, beaches, lush forests, and granite ridges formed by glaciers. While summer is a popular time to visit, the fall foliage makes for great autumn hiking.

Related: Top 9 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

31. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Located a four-hour drive south of Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon is a national park best known for having the largest concentration of hoodoos (irregular rock columns) in the world. The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019 due to the great nighttime visibility and many astronomy-related programs on offer.

32. Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Often considered a symbol of America’s independence, the iconic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia was ordered by Pennsylvania Assembly in 1751. It was previously housed in Independence Hall, the building where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were adopted. It has since been moved to the Liberty Bell Center within the Independence National Historical Park .

33. Charleston, South Carolina

The 1670-founded Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city, Today, it offers a lovely mix of old-fashioned Southern charm and contemporary style. Cobblestone streets filled with horse-drawn carriages and striking mansions can be found in its well-preserved Historic District, while notable wartime places, like Fort Sumter and Patriots Point , sit nearby. Cute boutique shops and traditional Southern comfort food appeal to visitors, as does Folly Beach , located a 25-minute drive south of the city.

34. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot springs may conjure images of Iceland or Costa Rica, but the aptly named city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers U.S. travelers ample opportunities to soak in naturally heated springs. The town is located in the Ouachita Mountains, about one hour from Little Rock. Bathhouse Row has several bathhouse options, including places for coed or gender-segregated experiences. A few dispensers around the city let people obtain cold spring water straight from the mountain.

35. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Roughly equidistant from Portland and San Francisco, the Redwood National and State Parks encompass 139,000 acres and three state parks. Visitors here will find stunning redwood trees, which are some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in the world. On average, redwoods live between 500 and 700 years, and a typical redwood here measures 300 feet tall and 16 to 20 feet in diameter.

36. Oahu, Hawaii

The most popular of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu provides picture-perfect beaches, hiking opportunities, and the conveniences of a city — think budget-friendly hotels, chain restaurants, and an international eatery. Top attractions include Waikiki Beach in Honolulu , Diamond Head — a dormant volcano crater that can be hiked — and North Shore, a beach with huge waves that make it a frequent host of international surfing competitions in the winter. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also worth a visit.

The 49th state of Alaska is stunning, with greenery-filled forests, tons of wildlife (think bears, humpback whales, and moose), and massive glaciers. However, it’s not the easiest place to explore, as even the capital of Juneau has no roads leading out of the city. Arguably the best way to see Alaska is on a cruise , stopping at ports like Ketchikan , which has a strong native culture and renowned salmon fishing.

38. Sonoma, California

While we love Napa Valley in California, Sonoma provides a slightly less touristy wine-country experience. Sonoma is set among beautiful rolling hills, and many of the over 400 wineries within Sonoma County have a laid-back atmosphere that will put visitors at ease. Like Napa, Sonoma has tons of top-notch restaurants, relaxing spas, bike rentals, and charming bed-and-breakfasts to choose from.

39. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

A four-hour drive south of Portland, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is 183,224 acres and home to America’s deepest lake. Crater Lake, a caldera formed by the eruption of Mount Mazama volcano, is 1,943 feet deep at its deepest point and has a striking deep blue hue. Swimming and fishing are permitted, plus park-goers can hike, bike, ski, and stargaze.

40. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

Located 90 minutes north of Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage site. An active Native American community resides on Taos Pueblo lands, both within the Pueblo and in surrounding areas. The present buildings, which are made of adobe, are believed to have been constructed between 1000 and 1450 A.D. Guided tours are available of the site.

Related: Best Destinations for Adult-Only Vacations

41. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Another Instagram darling, Antelope Canyon , is a magnificent, awe-inspiring slot canyon near Horseshoe Bend in Arizona, formed by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. It’s located on Navajo tribal lands, and the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons can only be accessed with a guide licensed by the tribe.

42. Minnesota Lakes

Minnesota is considered the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” though it actually has nearly 12,000, and many are fantastic spots for a summer vacation. Whether you choose to dip your toes in the chilly Lake Superior — one of the Great Lakes — or go full-on swimming in Mille Lacs Lake (which is large but shallow), there’s a lake in Minnesota for you.

43. Arches National Park, Utah

Just outside of Moab is Arches National Park , famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches — the largest concentration of them on Earth. The most photographed is the 52-foot-tall, freestanding Delicate Arch, plus the park has many other striking geological formations.

44. Kentucky Derby

Since 1865, the Kentucky Derby horse race has been taking place at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. Women wear elaborate hats, while gentlemen don seersucker suits in pastel hues. Visitors come to watch the 20 three-year-old Thoroughbred horses race 1.25 miles — often with a mint julep in hand.

45. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located in Michigan’s Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a charming 1780-founded island with a population of just around 1,000 (though it sees many tourists during its peak season). A majority of the island is a state park, which has forests, wildlife, and hiking trails. The use of motor vehicles has been outlawed here since 1898, so expect to ride around on bikes or in horse-drawn carriages and buggies.

46. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica sits due west of Los Angeles, and the town lures travelers with its postcard-worthy beach, pier with amusement park rides, and boulevard lined by shops and eateries. A 22-mile paved bike trail is a great way to see the city, plus the famous Muscle Beach , an outdoor gym dating back to the 1930s, is not to be missed.

47. Space Center, Houston

The Space Center in Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and home of NASA Mission Control and astronaut training. It allows visitors to view more than 400 space artifacts, as well as traveling and permanent exhibits related to space travel.

48. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

About a 90-minute drive from Denver is Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park , which attracts millions of visitors each year with its 355 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives to more than 12,000 feet in elevation, and over 50 lakes and streams for fishing. Year-round activities abound, and travelers can either camp within the park or stay at a nearby hotel such as the Stanley Hotel (the inspiration for “The Shining”).

49. Fenway Park, Boston

Long considered America’s pastime, baseball is something every U.S. citizen and traveler should witness at least once. There are 30 Major League Baseball teams, and while Wrigley Field in Chicago, Yankee Stadium in New York, and Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles are all suitable spots, we love Fenway Park in Boston for its easy-to-reach location. Plus, the many die-hard Red Sox fans make for a fun experience.

50. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is a fascinating tourist attraction that was developed as a Civil War fortress, followed by a military prison and federal prison (until 1963). Ferries shuttle visitors to the island, where guided tours showcase the complex history of the site and its prison.

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Home » North America » USA » Places to Visit

The Top 20 BEST Places to Visit in the USA [2024]

Characterized by scatty deserts, high stake rolls, and the Adonis of all presidential buildings, the USA exhibits a self-love matched only by the top contestants on RuPaul’s Drag Race…

…BUT VALIDLY.

It is an immense country, home to California, Los Angeles, Washington D.C, and a healthcare system where you’re more likely to walk out with fewer limbs than you walked in with…  (specifically an arm and a leg)

Whilst Hollywood picks out the juiciest shots of New York and Vegas, wilder highlights lie inland: The Precambrian geology of Utah, the toasty hot springs and outdoor adventure of Yellowstone, and the wide, freeing spaces of the Grand Canyon.

I will be lining up the best places to visit in the USA , so you can knock them down. Blessed with an eclectic mix of bustling tourist spots, famous landmarks and natural spaces so pretty they could disassemble a member of the Mossad, the U.S makes for a special visit.

So let’s dive right in!

What are the Best Places to Visit in the USA?

Faqs on the best places to visit in the usa, final thoughts.

Travelling the U.S. is an awesome thing to do. So let’s get right into it!

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• Arches national park (the holey land)
• Zion national park
• Salt Lake City
• Is this landscape real???

It bears the names of holy figures – of Zion, St. George, Mt. Nebo, and the Jordan River . Dabble in Utah’s epic national parks and you’ll see why the LDS pilgrims felt the need to do so – both the desert landscape and natural history of Utah are absolutely rapturous.

With towering walls of stone, intricately carved natural bridges, and otherworldly spires that seem to defy physics, there is nowhere quite like Utah.

Utah is just plain awesome and without a doubt one of the best places to visit in the USA. There’s so much to do in Utah – climbing, camping, hiking, quad biking, paragliding; if you can think of an outdoor adventure, it’s here.

That being said, just being in this state is usually enough. It’s a must-see place in America, undoubtedly.

2. Grand Canyon National Park

• Thrilling Heights
• Sprawling Landscapes
• Kind of Utah too
• Well-prepared for tourists

Including the Grand Canyon on any list of “Best Places to Visit in America” is nothing new. This national park is probably the single most popular tourist destination in the US, at least when it comes to the outdoors. And while we’ve all seen the rift a million times in postcards and advertisements, nothing really compares to being there in person.

If your fitness allows it, we’d highly recommend going on a full-day guided hike through the Canyon . That way you’ll stay safe, but experience the insane beauty of the park.

There are a bunch of great hiking trails around the Grand Canyon as well. The Vermillion Cliffs, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend are just a few of many to be named.

There is quite a bit of lodging around the Grand Canyon, which means one could easily use it as a base for exploring the rest of Northern Arizona and Utah.

3. Yosemite National Park

• Yosemite Valley
• 95% wilderness
• The Half Dome
• Giant sequoia groves

As one of the key reasons why national parks are such a big thing in America, Yosemite national park is a unique and special experience for any traveller.

Home to an array of spectacular hiking trails , sudden cliffs, and jaw-dropping views, Yosemite is a place not to be missed. Its location in California also makes it an ideal place to visit on a west coast tour- a great break from the city and the beach.

There are a number of more adrenaline-boosting activities too, from white water rafting and mountain biking to climbing and trail running. The adventure focus of this place makes it a perfect holiday destination, and there are great places to stay too !

4. San Francisco

• Alcatraz Island
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• The Golden Gate Bridge
• Awesome nightlife

I’ve been to San Francisco about 6 times now and every time it surprises me. For some reason, I always forget how gorgeous and dreamy this city really is. It only takes a few moments to remember why this is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US…

In terms of aesthetics, San Francisco is borderline perfect. The Golden Gate Bridge (which you should definitely experience via a relaxed cruise towards sunset ), the bay and Marin County; a sprinkling of these would be enough to visit but I’ve barely even cracked into the city.

Spend several intimate days with this city and you’ll be in love. Hell, we’ll even take the pissing bums at the Civic Station BART, though we’d much prefer drinking a beer in Dolores Park or riding the trolley.

To learn more about saving a buck in San Francisco, check out our backpacking San Francisco guide .

5. Yellowstone National Park

• America’s first national park
• Old Faithful
• A great mix of wildlife (yah, grizzlies too)
• Almost 3500 miles

Yellowstone national park is one of North America’s most popular . With over 50% of the world’s hydrothermal features, the largest buffalo herd in America, and a dormant supervolcano, it is no wonder that it receives so many visitors.

There are hundreds of outrageous hiking trails , things to do and see, and parts to explore. Skiing at Yellowstone is an unforgettable experience, but can sadly get quite expensive.

However, travelling here doesn’t need to be expensive , and you can often find cheap deals, tours and things to do. Take pleasure in the simple beauty, and don’t go looking for expensive dinners!

Yellowstone national park is an awesome place to visit .

6. New York City

• Statue of Liberty
• Central Park
• Empire State Building
• More merchandise than you can carry

Everyone – and I mean everyone –  knows about New York City. I’ve met shepherds in the mountains of Pakistan who didn’t know who their own president was but knew about New York City.

A caveman could be thawed out tomorrow and chances are the first thing he’d see is an I Heart NYC shirt.

There is simply no experience comparable to spending a few days NYC . Where else can you listen to over 800 languages or find literally everything under the moon, even durian fruit from Malaysia  – fucking durian!

There’s even an appointed Mayor of Nightlife here to represent the nocturnal culture – that’s taking the title, “City that Never Sleeps” to a whole new level.

Without question, New York is absolutely one of the best cities to visit in the USA. I know it, you know it, and the guy living in a cave knows it. No trip to America is complete without stopping in this city. And with a city this famous, you can be sure that there is loads to do. Too much almost. That’s why it’s actually a good idea to just hop on a one-day sightseeing tour to get all of the must-sees out of the way.

Ready to book your accommodation? Make sure you do so in one of these awesome neighbourhoods in New York City !

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

• Crazy diversity
• Overlooked wild spaces
• Moon Country

Oregon – the very name conjures up whimsical images of woods, waterfalls, alehouses, and hipsters. While I cannot confirm the existence of such things anymore (who has seen a real hipster in years, honestly?) I can say that Oregon is still one of the best states in the US!

From the deserts of Eastern Oregon to the Coast to charming, if not grungy, Portland , Oregon is full of amazingly diverse experiences and places to visit. Some of them are almost magical, like the Columbia Gorge Waterfalls, which are part of pretty much every tour in Oregon.

Here, you can ride a bike, go surfing at Oswalt West , and ski at Mt Hood , all in the course of a single day! Few places in the USA can compete with Oregon’s huge range of attractions and, honestly, it is one of the finest examples of American beauty.

Lots of people are organizing trips in Oregon these days and it is quickly becoming one of the most popular states in the USA. Many claim it’s one of the most beautiful and best states to visit, so best visit now before it becomes totally overrun.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park

• Largest Mountain range in NA
• Great Skiing
• Colorado River
• Mountain Biking

The Colorado Rockies are one of the most famous places in the USA for several reasons:

• Haunted hotels
• Tasting like Coors Beer
• “A little place called Assssspen.” ( Dumb and Dumber joke.)
• Insanely amazing outdoor adventures

The hiking trails in Colorado are some of the finest in America and many have dreams of summiting a 14er or going on a backpacking trip while visiting Colorado. The amazing Colorado river provides access to crazy watersports too.

And the skiing ; oh how the skiing dominates every conversation in the state. Admittedly, the slopes are spectacular in Colorado and seemingly never-ending.

Even better, there always seems to be a clumsy Texan who eats shit on a ski run. God forbid they actually hurt themselves… but if they’re unscathed, it’s comedy gold.

9. California Coast

• Vacuum packed geography

Ask anyone what their top US road trip would be, and most will probably say the California Coast. Over the course of 650 miles and one epic road trip , you’ll have the chance to see some of the most beautiful places in America. It’s no wonder California is considered one of the best states to visit.

You’ll also get to pass through some of California’s most iconic destinations, like La Jolla, Malibu, and the Redwoods.

You’re going to see a huge array of geography on the California Coast. Starting in the surfer’s paradise of San Diego , you’ll notice that the coast is quite desert-like – palm trees dominate the boardwalks and the sun is shining nearly constantly. San Diego might be one of the best places to dive into the world of water sports . Whether that’s surfing, sailing, jet-skiing – there are plenty of cool options to explore.

Travel further north and the landscape begins to change – the shoreline becomes more rugged, more vegetated, and more scenic. Few places are as stunning as the stretch along Big Sur and camping here is an absolute must.

Want to learn about San Diego’s amazing scene, which includes beer, music, and tacos? Read our dedicated San Diego city guide then !

10. Acadia National Park

• Cadillac Mountain
• Mount Desert Island
• Thunder Hole
• Great Long Pond

Acadia National Park houses some of the most stunning natural scenery on the eastern seaboard and is the only national park found in Maine. With a location like this, it’s worth the extra effort to reach from New York.

There is an abundance of fantastic places to stay in Acadia , and most of them boast unbelievable views. Hiking trails are mega-popular, but the beaches are highly prized too, especially in the warm summer.

The Schoodic peninsula provides a less busy alternative to the park’s main Island. Equipped with over 8km of bike trails, it makes a great family day out.

11. Death Valley National Park

• Insane desert
• Surprising diversity of life
• Hottest, driest and lowest national park
• Home to a ton of speed records

While there is a perception that Death Valley is just a hell on earth (the name doing no favours here), this national park is home to snow-capped peaks, sparkling oases, and fields of wildflowers. There is a wealth of life here!

Home to some unbelievable hiking trails , there are walks out there that will give you scenery you can’t find anywhere else in the world. In the summer, temperatures are often above 40 degrees Celsius, so it is worth researching the best times to visit if you’re looking to properly explore.

Death Valley is undeniably a bucket-list location, and there are loads of great places to stay nearby ! There is no excuse for leaving this awesome part of the U.S. out of your itinerary, because it slaps.

12. Washington DC

• I have a dream
• Lincoln Memorial
• White House
• Jefferson Memorial

It’s the nation’s capital, the supposed City Upon a Hill, and the representation of everything good and bad about America. Regardless of its political undercurrents, Washington DC is one of the best cities to visit in the US, thanks to its oversaturation of history, culture, and monuments.

As such, a lot of DC’s neighborhoods are changing, for better and worse. Adams Morgan and The Shaw are firmly gentrified, while Columbia Heights and H Street are on the verge of being “discovered.”

But the monuments – magnificent edifices to the nation – still make DC one of the best places to visit in America. The Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial are all here and are as glorious as ever. For a bit of a different vibe, you can explore each monument at night .

13. Montana

• Glacier national park

Montana is a bit like Arcadia – a legendary place that is often spoken about but rarely visited by the vast majority. It’s a state where one can escape all of the evils of the world and just go for a walk, a joy ride, a fishing trip, or have a beer with yourself. In fact, it’s a true paradise for going on epic outdoor adventures and activities.

Montana is one of the best states to visit in the US; plain and simple. It’s gorgeous, unique, unabashed, and welcoming. When you’re backpacking around the United States, add this to your itinerary because it’s a must-do.

Every day, more and more people are visiting, and many fear that it will lose its rustic charm ( Glacier National Park certainly feels overrun in the summer). Spend some time staying in Montana soon while it’s still somewhat raw.

14. Northern Idaho

• Coeur d’Alene
• Hiawatha cycling route
• Silverwood theme park
• Farragut state park

Idaho gets a really bad rap for being boring and good for nothing besides growing potatoes. While I certainly can’t deny that the southern part of the state is like this, the north is a whole different story.

Contrary to many’s perceptions that Idaho is just flat and featureless, Northern Idaho is actually very mountainous. The American Rockies actually begin in Idaho and are no less stunning than those in Montana or Colorado. You can also find many quaint cabins in Idaho that offer unparalleled views of the Rocky Mountains and other scenic points in the state.

Some of the best skiing in the country is around Sun Valley and there are lots of world-class hikes in the Sawtooths . I myself was pleasantly surprised to stumble upon Sandpoint , a lake resort tucked away in the mountains – to me, Sandpoint is like the American version of Lake Como.

So give Idaho a chance! It’s not the most visited place in the USA, but that’s probably why it’s so great.

15. Olympic Peninsula

• Olympic National Park
• Hoh rain forest
• Lake Crescent

The Pacific Northwest is notable for a lot of reasons – craft coffee, rain, and Nirvana, among other things. Nature is obviously a huge reason to visit this region and while we love places like Mt Rainier or the San Juans Islands, few can compete with the spectacular Olympic Peninsula.

The Olympic Peninsula is one of the most unique ecosystems in the world and offers a crazy array of geography. It receives a shit ton of rain – even by PNW standards – which, in turn, makes it amazingly lush.

Aside from the flora, the Olympic peninsula also hosts mountains, glaciers, vast wildlife, and some of the best beaches on the West Coast. The ability to see so many different landscapes in one place certainly makes this USA national park one of the best places to visit in the USA (in the summer, particularly).

16. Sierra Nevada Mountains

• Mount Whitney
• More forest than you need
• King’s Canyon

The pre mentioned Yosemite , of legendary climbing fame, is located about 3 hours away from San Francisco and is a very popular place to visit. King’s Canyon is in the southern portion of the range and it hosts some of the best hikes in California.

We’re being modest though – because the Sierra Nevada actually holds several superlative titles. The highest point in the lower 48, Mt Whitney is located in these mountains. So is the largest alpine lake in North America – Lake Tahoe . Let’s not forget the towering sequoias either, which are considered the largest trees on Earth.

So the next time someone says that the Rockies or Appalachians are the only mountains in the US, you tell them about the Sierra Nevada. While you’re at it, drink an Otra Vez Gose from the eponymous brewery – that shit is amazing,

17. Santa Fe

• Spanish town
• Canyon Road’s art institutes
• Santa Fe Opera House
• Taos Ski valley

Santa Fe is a wonder; a city that manages to hit all of the marks of a great tourist destination. There’s unique heritage, a thriving art scene, a plethora of outdoor activities, and amazing food (GREEN CHILI EVERYTHING).

And yet, Santa Fe still manages to be underrated . In fact, not many people visit Santa Fe at all, let alone know where it is ( New Mexico if you didn’t already). When you compare Santa Fe’s humble 2 million annual tourists to Denver’s 30 million or Phoenix’s 20 million, it’s kind of upsetting actually.

Statistics be damned though; Santa Fe is still one of the must-see places in the USA! The art alone is worth the journey here. For God’s sake: there’s a gallery called Meow Wolf that was built by George RR Martin – how fucking cool is that!

18. Wyoming Rockies

• Not just the Rockies-Wyoming Rockies!
• Yellowstone National Park
• Grand Teton National Park
• Titcomb basin

The Rockies stretch over about 6 different states, so you shouldn’t be surprised to hear that these mountains look and feel different in each one. Some people love the Colorado Rockies; others swear by the mountains in Montana because, admittedly, Glacier is pretty fuckin’ rad.

My favorite part of the Rockies though? Wyoming .

First and foremost, two of the best national parks in the USA are located here – Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons . Both are among the top places that every American should see before they die as their scenery has become iconic. They’re best discovered by foot and with a guide , unless you’re an experienced hiker.

The best part of the Wyoming Rockies, better than the Tetons even, is the Wind River Range. This lesser-known area is home to some of the best hiking trails in the USA, like the stupendous Titcomb Basin. The best part though – you’re relatively free of the crowds! I’d take the Winds over the rest, any day.

19. Los Angeles

• Venice Beach
• Universal Studios

I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with Los Angeles – every time I visit, I just can’t find the right place for myself. The thing that keeps me coming back though is the fact that I can never possibly see the entire city. Even if you join the Grand City Tour , there’s always another place you could check out.

Los Angeles is fuckin’ massive . There are so many different districts in this city and each one has its own identity. Travel from Santa Monica to Echo Park and you’ll feel like your in completely different cities. Alas, it’s still LA.

LA is extremely diverse as well. In fact, Los Angeles is often considered one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the US , more so than even New York City. There are so many different cultures here and, as we mentioned before, each has its own neighborhood. A walk in LA is like a walk around the world.

20. Las Vegas

• Sin, betting, more sin…
• Unique atmosphere
• Great place to base yourself

Quick! Let’s name off as many nicknames for Las Vegas possible:

• The Entertainment Capital of the World
• Glitter Gulch
• The City of Lost Wages

Jesus, it’s no wonder Vegas has the reputation that it does – based upon these monikers, everyone must think that Vegas is just good for partying and throwing away your hard-earned money.

Here’s a new title for Vegas: The Best Location in the Southwest . Why this?

Las Vegas is located between some of the best places to visit in the USA. Zion National Park, the Grand Canyon, the Sierra Nevada ; all of these areas are within a couple hours drive of Vegas. There are plenty of guided tours that take you to the attractions outside of Las Vegas, so you can opt for that if you don’t want to drive yourself!

So next time you’re thinking about visiting Las Vegas , use it as a launching point for the entire American Southwest . When you’ve wrapped up your trip in this region, grab a drink at the like of Atomic Liquors or Beauty Bar – as kitschy as they are, they’re still fun.

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Here’s what we’re usually asked about the best places to visit in the U.S.A!

What are the coolest places to visit in the United States?

Out of all the epic places, I have to recommend the Rockies for their sheer beauty, Utah for its weirdness (and skiing), and California, for the surf. There are so many amazing places in the U.S, so it’s worth doing your homework. Since distances are large too, maybe check our U.S. itinerary for how to deal with distances.

What is the most unique place to visit in the USA?

The Olympic Peninsula is one of the most unique places to visit in the USA because of its array of flora and plantlife.

What is the best outdoor place to visit in the USA?

Montana is the best place to visit in the USA for outdoor lovers.

What are the best places to go on a vacation in the USA?

My snap pick would be national parks, like Yosemite, Yellowstone, Zion, or the Utah Arches National Park. If you want a beach holiday, try Maine or California, and if you want to be a tourist, you can’t beat Las Vegas or New York. There are surprising gems all over the U.S., so do some research and get going!

So there you have it, my top places to visit within the boundaries of this amazing country…

If you think that there are better cities or destinations in America, then please share your own in the comment section below ! We’d love to hear what you think of our choices and, likewise, we’d love to hear your own choices as well.

Otherwise, get out there and start exploring the USA. For all it’s faults and complexities, it’s still one of the most diverse and magnificently beautiful places on this planet. It’s a big damn country so get out there and start visiting the USA’s best!

Sheridan Cahoon

Share or save this post

Wow! What a great list of places to see on my next adventure! Thanks for all of the hard work you put into the perfect backpacking experience!

Newport Rhode Island definitely deserves a mention. Touring the summer “cottages” of the Gilded Age along with the stunning coastline is an amazing experience.

Very true! I live in Missouri and it’s very pretty downtown and there are many things to do!

Should include St. Louis. It’s downtown has developed with a new museum under the Gateqlway Arch, Aquarium and new top golf in midtown

Augusta is the capitol of Maine, not Portland.

Excellent list of top cities to visit in the United States. Just a quick note, Santa Fe is misspelled . Santa is Spanish for saint, Fe for faith (The City of Faith). In the piece it’s spelled Sante. I only know this because I grew up there. It is a beautiful and unique place to visit. At 7,000 feet, Santa Feans enjoys all 4 seasons. Thanks so much for including it! And thank you for this bucket list. Keep up the good work!

Noted and fixed! Thanks for spotting the mistake.

This is an incredible list! Makes me realize how fortunate I am to live in such a diverse and beautiful country. And thank you for appreciating Philly!!! Your description is dead on lmao…GO BIRDS

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50 Best Places to Visit in the USA

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

The US is a beautiful and vast country. It has the most beautiful national parks, bustling cities, action-packed state parks, and more cultural attractions than you could see in a lifetime. So choosing the best places to visit in the USA is no small task but with a little help from our team and from our many visits to our friends to the south, we’ve compiled our picks for the best of America .

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in the USA

There’s a lot to narrow down, so we’ve created a complete guide to the best places to visit in the USA. Sit back and browse; let’s find the best places for you.

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

Sure, there is something romantic about small beach towns in America. Just don’t miss out on the country’s incredible major cities. These cities are some of the best places to visit in the US. Iconic, exciting, and entertaining, these destinations all warrant a place on your US itinerary.

1. New York

Where to start? New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. The city’s attractions are practically immortalized, and the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park are all household names. New York has plenty of cultural activities too, with art galleries and attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Natural History Museum. Plus the food scene? Don’t get us started.

New York is the largest city in the US. It is best for visitors who love action-packed itineraries and fast-paced holidays. Known as the ‘city that never sleeps, New York is perfect for those who want to take entertainment and sightseeing seriously no matter what time of day. You can check out our five-day  New York itinerary , our guide on  where to stay in New York , and  where to find the best skyline views .

Read more about New York

• 33 Best Things to Do in New York
• 25 Best Things to do in Brooklyn, New York
• 26 Best Things to do in Manhattan
• Christmas in New York – What to do in NYC for the Holidays

2. San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most easily recognized cityscapes in the US. From the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge to its iconic cable cars, San Francisco is one of the best places to visit in the US. If you do nothing else, visit Hawk Hill for a perfect picture of the Golden Gate Bridge , and a cable car ride is one of the most famous things to do in the city.

San Francisco is the fourth biggest city in the US and sits in the north of California. The city is full of culture and history, also home to Alcatraz Island. This notorious prison once held Al Capone. San Francisco makes a great city break for anyone wanting a taste of iconic destinations in the US. However, San Francisco is especially well-suited to those who enjoy cities with lots of historical backstories.

Read more about San Francisco

• Awesome Things to do in San Francisco
• Where to Stay in San Francisco – A Guide To The Best Neighborhoods
• 16 Great Hikes in San Francisco, California
• 72 Hours in San Francisco – A Local’s Guide to the City
• The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary and The Best Viewpoints
• 17 Mile Drive – Complete Scenic Drive Itinerary

3. Washington DC

Washington DC is the US capital and the heart of American politics. It is also one of our favorite places to visit in the USA. It really surprised us. We expected this government town to be boring centering but there is more to Washington than the State Capitol Building at the White House.

With a fantastic food scene, plenty of bars, and nightlife this city will keep you occupied day and night. It’s really the grandeur of the city that impressed us. See more about the Lincoln Memorial and other historic landmarks at 12 Must-See Washington DC Monuments and Memorials in Photos

The Washington Monument stands proud over iconic places such as the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, and the National Mall. And the museums are out of this world. Go museum hopping through the Smithsonian to see the Museum of Natural History, African American History and Culture, National Air and Space Museum and more!

4. New Orleans

New Orleans is another fast-paced addition to our list. New Orleans is known for creole food, live music, and nightlife – an incredible mix, in our opinion. If you want a flamboyant, outgoing city to visit in the US, you’ll have lots of fun in New Orleans.

Bourbon Street, the French Quarter, and Garden District are the city’s most famous areas. In short, Bourbon Street is where to party, the French Quarter is where to take pictures, and the Garden District is where to get a morning coffee. New Orleans is full of incredible,  diverse districts , so allow yourself time to see them all.

If you are visiting the US in February or March, New Orleans is an even better choice as it hosts one of the world’s best Mardi Gras. The city’s partying is on par with Las Vegas, just more authentic and cultural than indulgent. New Orleans has  lots to do  and experience.

Read more about New Orleans

• Where to Stay in New Orleans – The BEST Areas
• Best Things to do in New Orleans – The Ultimate City Guide
• The Essential 3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary
• Most Haunted Places in New Orleans – How to Explore the City of the Dead
• A Tour of the New Orleans Garden District

Miami is best known for its beaches and cityscape. Everywhere you look along the coast is photogenic. Miami is a place made famous by postcards, travel photographers, and social media influencers.

You can walk the beach boardwalk, check out the Wynwood Walls street art, and enjoy the downtown nightlife and hospitality venues. Even just relaxing along Miami’s coastline is a heavenly way to pass your time. There are so many  things to do  that you could spend weeks in Miami.

The Miami coastline is easy to recognize. The skyscrapers stretch right up to the sand – luxurious, sunkissed, and perfect for a break in the sun. Miami gets 3,200 hours of sun a year, just in case you needed any more persuading.

Read more about Miami

• 24 Best Things to do in Miami, Florida
• 28 Best Beaches in the USA
• 11 Best Theme Parks in Florida
• Best Places to Stay in Florida

6. Las Vegas

Las Vegas is one of the best cities in the US to let your hair down. Many describe Las Vegas as running on a hyper-reality, and the flashy, neon-filled city in the middle of the desert certainly runs at a hundred miles per hour.

Las Vegas is primarily a partying destination. Along The Strip, you’ll find more casinos than hot dinners and some of the rowdiest, indulgent nightclubs in the states. The city gets its Sin City nickname from how it turns a blind eye to behaviors and activities deemed immoral elsewhere. If you want to party, Las Vegas is the place.

You can also read about things to do off  The Strip in Las Vegas here.

7. Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a gem on the West Coast. It has Hollywood, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. Los Angeles is where the rich and famous flock and where the movie stars are best remembered – with some earning a spot on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Visiting Los Angeles, you have to see all the major Hollywood attractions. There is plenty to  see and do , from the Hollywood sign to Universal Studios Hollywood. Los Angeles has hiking trails, theme parks, and museums galore. When you want downtime, you can head straight to the beach for a swim, surf, or sunbathe.

Los Angeles is a popular road trip stopover for those completing road trips in the US. Located in southern California, the city has excellent weather.

Read more about Los Angeles

• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: Best Areas and Hotels For Every Budget
• 25 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles – Hollywood, Hikes, And More
• 15 Touristy Things to Do in Malibu

Chicago is one of the northernmost destinations and is the third largest city in the US. Once known for 1920s gangsters and prohibition drinking, Chicago is now associated with  cuisine , bold architecture, and lakeside living.

Chicago (also known as the windy city) sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, the second largest of North America’s famous Five Lakes. It has a colorful and varied history – full of mischief, yet is now a safe tourist destination in the US. On a sunny day, Millennium Park is a stunning spot to relax. While on a rainy day, there are plenty of indoor  things to do  like visiting the Art Institute of Chicago.

If you want a city full of life and where the past clearly still influences the character of the present, Chicago is a fun choice.

Read more about Chicago

• Where to stay in Chicago: Best Areas and Hotels
• 21 of the Best Things to Do in Chicago
• Top 10 Hot Spots to Eat in Chicago

Nashville may be known as Music City, but Austin is the live music capital of the world and the beloved state capital of Texas. Texas  is home to country music, but Austin is also known for its blues and rock. Fans of these genres will especially love visiting Austin, and you should check for concerts in advance.

Austin is famous for concerts and green space.  Zilker Metropolitan Park is arguably the best green space in Austin. The 351-acre park has multiple sections, including a botanical garden and a spring-fed pool for swimming. However, Austin is also surrounded by lakes like Lady Bird Lake. Austin’s lakes are prime fishing, boating, and swimming spots – great for those who want a laidback US city experience.

Austin is an excellent option if you want to experience the south and city culture outside of major destinations like New York and Vegas. It’s still fantastic for tourists, but the city focuses more on residential quality of life than attracting visitors. Austin is a little different, which we like.

10. San Diego

San Diego is another west coast hotspot. The Californian city is blessed with 70 miles of beaches and is an excellent alternative to visiting Los Angeles. Located just above the Mexican border it has a warm climate all year round. Livable, warm, and full of tourist attractions, San Diego , is one of the best places to visit in the USA.

The CBD is set around its harbor, and the city has a long naval history. You can discover more about the city’s naval heritage at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Alternatively, enjoy the sunshine at Balboa Park or Coronado Beach. The city has lots of green spaces and coastal areas to relax. You’ll have fun choosing  where to stay in San Diego , as there are so many interesting neighborhoods.

San Diego has been a favored getaway for years, attracting historical figures like the Kennedys and Marilyn Munroe. If you want to experience California outside of Los Angeles, the city is a warm, fun, but laid-back choice. Click  here  for more inspiration..

Read more :

• The Best Things to Do in San Diego – A Local’s Guide to the City
• Where To Stay In San Diego – The Best Neighborhoods & Areas

11. Philidelphia

No visit to the United States would be complete without seeing the birthplace of American democracy. The city’s history shines as Philadelphia is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and the U.S. Constitution was debated and signed in 1787 at Independence Hall.

Other important sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Franklin Court, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin. It has a vibrant culture and art scene with delicious cuisines including its famous cheesesteaks and plenty of museums, art galleries, theaters, and even hiking and biking trails. Read more: 28 Best Things to do in Philadelphia

12. Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee is widely regarded as the “Music City” and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in country music. The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the most popular attractions in Nashville celebrating the history and impact of the genre. Arti

Besides the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is also home to many other music-related attractions, including the Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, and the Patsy Cline Museum. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues offering live performances every night of the week.

Aside from its music scene, Nashville is also a great destination for foodies, with a thriving culinary scene that features everything from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative fusion dishes. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including parks, lakes, and rolling hills, making it a great place for outdoor activities and adventure. Read more: Where to Stay in Nashville – Best Areas

13. Seattle

Seattle, Washington is a great destination for travelers looking to experience a mix of urban and natural attractions. Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. This city combines outdoor attractions with its urban vibe seamlessly. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and the Pacific Ocean.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and boating. The Olympic Sculpture Park is a public park that features a unique collection of contemporary sculptures set against a stunning backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It is a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air while taking in some of the city’s most beautiful views.

Seattle is also known for its thriving technology industry and diverse cultural scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as enjoy its famous cuisine and shopping at Pike Place Market – one of the oldest continuously operated farmers’ markets in the United States, and craft beer scene. Read more: Where to stay in Seattle – Best Neighborhoods

Best National Parks To Visit In The USA

It’s no secret that the US has some of the world’s top national parks. Whether you like hiking trails, mountain biking, or stunning natural attractions – we’ll find a match for you. These are some of the  best national parks  to visit in the US. Let’s dive straight in.

14. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is the icon among US national parks as the first national park in the world. It is famous for its geothermal and volcanic activity and when we visited it this year became one of our favorite places to visit in the USA. Yellowstone is full of wildlife, geysers, hot springs, and a supervolcano. Its dormant but powerful volcano last erupted 70,000 years ago.

Yellowstone is often described as a geothermal playground, and it’s the best place to experience geothermal activity in the US. In our opinion, the world. We’ve been to a lot of geothermal areas on earth and this places blew our minds.

Yellowstone is one of the best places to visit in the USA to experience the power of nature. You can watch the geysers explode, the most famous of which is Old Faithful. You can also  hike  to Yellowstone’s hot springs, including Grand Prismatic Spring which is popular because of its eye-catching colors. While in Yellowstone, hop over to another one of the best places to visit in the USA, Grand Teton National Park. You can actually see the Grand Teton mountain range from Yellowstone.

Read more about Yellowstone

• Where to Stay in Yellowstone
• 27 Things to do in Yellowstone
• The Essential Guide to Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone
• Things to do in Cody Wyoming – Wild West Gateway to Yellowstone

15. Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting Grand Canyon National Park is a dream for most, and it is easily one of the best places to visit in the US. This natural wonder is the most famous canyon in the world. Created by the Colorado River carving through the Grand Canyon over millions of years.

The Grand Canyon is known for its stunning views however, there are also plenty of amazing  things to do  in and around the Grand Canyon. You can take one of the many hiking trails, visit its viewpoints, go whitewater rafting down the Colorado River, or take a scenic helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon.

Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is just a four-hour drive away from Las Vegas it’s not too far from Phoenix. The  Grand Canyon  is a worthy  overnight stop-off point  if you are taking a road trip. In fact, the Grand Canyon is a great stop on the iconic route 66 road trip.

The Grand Canyon is also brilliant for scenic swimming spots. Upper Navajo Falls is the best spot, and you can swim in the plunge pool, heading through to the cave behind the falls if you dare.

Read more about Grand Canyon

• Where to Stay At The Grand Canyon: Best Hotels And Areas For Every Budget
• 15 Fun Facts That You Need to Know About the Grand Canyon
• The Absolute Best Things to do in The Grand Canyon

16. Zion National Park

If Yellowstone is known for its geothermal attractions, Zion National Park is known for its sandstone cliffs and rock formations. Zion is one of the best places to visit in the US for a desert experience and has incredible hiking trails with eye-catching natural attractions. The Great Arch, Kanarra Falls, and Angels Landing ridge are all fantastic spots to visit.

Zion NP also has some impressive canyons. The Narrows is the most famous section of Zion Canyon, and its hiking trail leads you through the bottom – which is just 20 to 30 feet wide. Pack water shoes and shorts as in some parts, you’ll be wading through the Virginia River.

Read more about Zion National Park

• Where to Stay in Zion National Park
• 10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park, Utah
• 22 Best Things to do in Moab, Utah

17. Glacier National Park

Fancy a contrast from desert landscapes? Then you must visit Glacier National Park. It is a stunning alpine area in Montana with over 1 million acres of hiking trails, wildlife ranges, mountain biking paths, and mountains to climb.

Glacier NP is the twin peace park to Canada’s Waterton National Park . It is the best place to visit for crystal clear alpine lakes framed by dramatic mountain ranges. The park has  25 glaciers to hike to  and explore. And, if you are fortunate, you can even spot the Northern Lights.

You can spot lots of wildlife in the park – from mountain goats to wolves and grizzly bears. If you love nature and wild animals, it makes a great destination in Montana.

18. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park might be best known for its waterfalls but the nearly 750,000-acre park has lots more  things to do  and see under its belt. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite’s valleys create perfect viewpoints, such as Glacier Point, Tunnel View, and Taft Point.

Yosemite National Park is also brilliant for skiing – so head to a spot like Badger Pass if you want to learn or show off your skills. One of the best things to do in Yosemite is to hike the Half Dome. The Half Dome hike is definitely one for the bucket list and is one of the most iconic hikes in the USA. Read all about it here:

Yosemite Falls are the postcard image of the park. The waterfall drops from granite cliffs, with lower and upper trails that you can walk up for a better view. Mist Trail, Nevada Fall, and Vernal Falls are other popular waterfalls to visit in the park.

Read more about Yosemite National Park

• Things to do in Yosemite National Park
• Where to Stay in Yosemite
• United States National Parks in Photos

19. Arches National Park

Arches National Park is heaven if you love natural beauty and geology, featuring over 2,000 natural stone arches. The park is a famous red color, with red sandstone giving the whole park an otherworldly, picturesque glow – especially at sunrise and sunset. Arches is one of the best places to visit in the USA if you want somewhere with a wow factor.

The best places to visit in Arches are Landscape Arch, Double O Arch, Lower Delicate Arch, and Balanced Rock. The park has more places to see than outdoor activities, so it’s best for those who want a natural sightseeing experience. You can view our guide on the  best hikes in Arches National Park  for more inspiration.

20. Rocky Mountain National Park

Who doesn’t love the Rocky Mountains? Whether you want to go hiking, horseback riding, or camping, Rocky Mountain National Park is a dreamy destination. The limestone and shale cliff faces and mountains make a glorious backdrop to enjoy the great outdoors.

The Rocky Mountains stretch over 3,000 miles, covering states in both the US and Canada. In the US, the Rocky Mountains spread through Idaho, Montana,  Colorado,  New Mexico, and Wyoming. And Rocky Mountain National Park is the star attraction. That’s because no matter what part of Rocky Mountain National Park you travel, you’re treated to 360 degrees worth of stunning views. If you’ve got a particular affinity for certain nature hike features like waterfalls or wildlife spotting then perhaps you’ll appreciate some hikes more than others.

If you  want more challenging hikes,  this park is a great option. There are over sixty mountain peaks for you to tackle, so the real question is, how long have you got? To experience a ranch stay, the Rocky Mountains are also fantastic, and the area is renowned for horseback riding.

21. Mount Rainier National Park

Fancy the glacial landscape of Glacier National Park, but just want to base yourself in a different state to Montana? Mount Rainier NNP is one of the best places to visit in the US and is conveniently located in Washington State. You can still admire snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and glaciers – just within a two-hour drive from Seattle.

The park is a 263,000-acre area situated around Mount Rainier, a dormant supervolcano and Washington’s highest peak. Experienced climbers can tackle the mountain on guided climbs. However, there are plenty of  entry-level hikes  in the national park for those who lack the experience to tackle Mount Rainier. Trail of the Shadows, Rampart Ridge Trail, and Twin Firs Loop Trail are all popular hikes.

Mount Rainier National Park is the perfect place for climbers and hikers in the pacific northwest. If you want to experience an alpine, glacial landscape but stay in a major city, it is the best option for you.

22. Olympic National Park

If temperature rainforests and moss-covered trails sound intriguing, Olympic National Park is your match made in heaven. The national park is full of thick forests and fairytale-like trails. You’ll also find driftwood beaches and glacial lakes perfect for swimming, watersports, and fishing.

The park is easily reached from  Seattle  by car or ferry. You could grab breakfast at Pike Place Market and then be in Olympic National Park before lunch. Just plan an itinerary and what you’d like to see first, as the park is nearly 1 million acres in size.

There are plenty of things to do in the park, including multiple trails through the Hoh Rainforest. Olympic is a beautiful introduction to the Pacific Northwest coast and Washington State. If you’ve never experienced rainforests, we recommend choosing this park as a US destination.

Read more about Olympic National Par

• Things to do at Olympic National Park
• 19 Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

23. Death Valley National Park

As the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the US, Death Valley National Park sure collects titles. The park stretches into  Nevada and California,  just west of Las Vegas. It is primarily a desert landscape, although it has several colorful mountain ranges and ridges.

If 1 million acres sounded big, try 3.4 million acres for size. Death Valley is worthy of a multi-day trip. However, you can see lots of the park in a single day since its main attractions are relatively close. The best places to visit in Death Valley are Badwater Basin salt flats, Titus Canyon, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and Ubehebe Crater.

Death Valley National Park is a great day trip from Las Vegas. You can reach the park in around two hours from Las Vegas. Those staying in Los Angeles can also visit Death Valley, although it’s a little longer. Allow three to four hours to drive to Death Valley from Los Angeles. Read more 21 Best Things to do in Death Valley National Park

24. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua tree national park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This unique desert landscape covers more than 1200 square miles. The park is made up of a unique and diverse ecosystem that feels almost out of this world as two different ecosystems come together.

This is a desert oasis full of ancient Joshua trees and unique rock formations. Drive through the cholla cactus garden as you take photos of the breathtaking landscape. Admire the famous skull rock as you take in the beautiful scenery. If you’re lucky you might even spot some wild animals. Coyotes, hawks, eagles, hummingbirds, big-horn sheep, and gray foxes are quite common at the park.

Lots of hiking and hiking trails are available for all ages. Plan to spend a whole day there to take in all that the park has to offer. Or better yet, set up camp and enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars. Bring a good pair of closed footwear, a hat, lots of sunscreen and water. R ead more: 11 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park

25. Denali National Park

Denali National Park is one of the biggest in the US. While it narrowly missed out on being included in our top 40 best places, there is no way that we couldn’t have this park in our runners-up.

At 6 million acres, it’s safe to say that Denali National Park can keep you entertained for a while. The park is located in Alaska , way up in North America. The national park surrounds Mount McKinley, the tallest mountain in North America, and features beautiful glacial and forest landscapes. Denali National Park is an excellent US destination if you want somewhere to head off the beaten track.

Denali National Park is famed for its wildlife, with grizzlies, black bears, wolves, caribou, and moose to spot. You can try to spot wildlife by driving through the national park yourself or opt for a backcountry safari. If you are lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights at night.

For more inspiration on visiting Alaska, here are our guides on the best things to do in Alaska and most spectacular places to visit in Alaska .

Read more about Alaska

• 16 Fun and Interesting Facts About Alaska
• The Best Places to Visit in Alaska
• Things to do in Alaska
• Uncruise Alaska – The Best Alaskan Cruise
• How to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

26. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains are a wonderful place to connect with nature and challenge yourself to outdoor activities. The park covers over 500,000 acres. You can camp, hike, fish, and climb for a day or two weeks – the Great Smoky Mountains are a versatile US destination to visit.

The best things to do in the mountains are to hike up Clingmans Dome (the highest peak), visit Sky Center, hike to Laurel Falls, and test your bravery at Smoky Mountains Ziplines. The mountain town of Gatlinburg is considered the gateway to the national park. It is a great spot to retreat to for the luxuries of civilization.

The mountain range runs along the Tennessee and North Carolina border. For those road tripping the states, consider stopping off to enjoy the mountains. Otherwise, you can always take a day trip from Knoxville, Atlanta, or Charlotte.

27. Acadia National Park

You can spend your days hiking and snapping photographs. We also recommend visiting Poipu Beach, which we mentioned earlier as one of the best beaches in the US. And, if you want to glimpse the cliffs along Na Pali Coast, head to the hiking trails around Koke’s State Park. Kauai is stunning. Just remember to leave no trace and keep your holiday as ethical and sustainable as possible.

Acadia National Park just missed out on our top ten best national parks to visit in the US. However, the 47,000-acre park definitely deserves an honorary mention. It is home to wildlife like moose and bears, a rugged coastline, and Atlantic flora. Acadia is a beautiful US destination if you want to experience natural beauty on the Northeast Atlantic coast.

The national park is split between Mount Desert Island and mainland Maine. There’s plenty to do, from adventurous cliff walks like Beehive Trail to boat tours to spot puffins.

Best Beaches to Visit in the US

It goes without saying that the US isn’t all deserts and mountains. The country is revered for its beautiful beaches – with golden sands, marine life, and super surfing.

We’ve already covered the best beaches in the USA  here , but this section will narrow it down to the top ten. These ten beaches are some of the best places to visit in the USA.

28. Miami Beach, FL

Miami Beach is a coastal resort island connected to mainland Miami by a series of bridges. While Miami Beach has one long coastline, it is split into multiple beaches. Our favorite (and the most popular) is South Beach.

South Beach is the playground of the rich and beautiful, regularly frequented by models and celebrities. Even the beach facilities are beautiful, with art-deco lifeguard towers and day beds.

Once you’ve finished at the beach, you have restaurants, bars, and attractions to choose from along the promenade. A day out at South Beach combines wining, dining, shopping, and beach time.

• Best Beaches in Florida for Fun in the Sun

29. Corolla Beach, NC

Horse lovers, this beach is the best for you. Corolla Beach is home to the only surviving herd of wild Spanish Mustangs in the world. As long as you stay a safe distance away, you can get amazing views of the herd that lives on the beach and grassy dunes.

Apart from the horses, Corolla Beach is quiet and relatively untouched. There are limited facilities except for the Corolla Wild Horse Fund, a charity, and a conservation museum educating and fundraising for the local horses.

Corolla Beach is one of America’s best if you want an idyllic, peaceful beach experience.

30. Coronado Beach, CA

Coronado Beach in San Diego is commercial, but historically so. The beach is fronted by Hotel Del Coronado, one of the most famous hotels in the US.

In its prime, the hotel hosted guests like Marilyn Monroe and George W. Bush. The hotel gives Coronado Beach a cultural edge, and it’s fun to know that you are stepping in celebrity footsteps.

Coronado Beach is also a top destination in its own right. You can wander the sand sculptures, rent a deck chair, or go for a dip in the ocean. Coronado Beach has small waves suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers and confident swimmers. It is an excellent place to appreciate Californian beach culture.

• 24 Of The Best Beaches in California

31. Siesta Beach, FL

Want that white sand beach type of beach day? The one where it feels like you are on your own tropical island? Siesta Beach is the spot for you.

Siesta Beach is on Siesta Key, a barrier island off the coast of  Florida . The whiteness of the beach comes from its quartz sand – a feature that also keeps Siesta Beach much cooler underfoot. Quartz is a type of crystal that conducts and disperses heat quickly, meaning you don’t have to worry as much about burning your feet during the midday heat.

Beautiful and practical? Siesta Beach is one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Read more about Florida

• The Best Places to Visit in Florida
• Our Favorite Fun Facts About Florida
• Things to do in Islamorada Florida Keys

32. Clearwater Beach, FL

Clearwater Beach is fashionable, entertaining, and full of life. By day, you can parasail, jet ski, and strut your stuff down the fashion-forward promenade. By night, you can head to Pier 60, which is transformed into a nightly festival scene. You can unwind with a fresh tan, live music, and street performers as the sun sinks.

Clearwater Beach is fantastic if you want a beach that can keep you entertained at all hours. The beach itself is pretty. However, the quality Clearwater Beach experience comes mostly from all the activities and entertainment. Clearwater Beach is easily one of  Florida’s best beaches .

Read more about Florida travel

• Best Things to do in Daytona Beach, Florida
• 10 Unique Things to Do in Central Florida

33. Cannon Beach, OR

If Cannon Beach made National Geographic’s top 100 most beautiful beaches in the world, it definitely deserves a place in America’s top ten beaches. Cannon Beach in Oregon is stunning and one of the most photogenic beaches in the US.

The beach has distinct beach stacks, including Haystack Rock, the largest. At low tide, you can walk between stacks, explore rockpools and even climb the smallest if you feel brave. At sunset, the silhouettes of the rocks and the glistening of wet sand create a beautiful shimmering effect. Don’t look much further if you want a pretty beach to visit.

Read more about Oregon

• 12 Best Hikes in Oregon That Will blow Your Mind
• 21 Awesome Places to Visit in Oregon
• Best Things to do in Portland, Oregon

34. Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach treads the delicate line between nostalgic and cheesy. The beachfront is an old-school seaside resort with a Ferris wheel, a haunted house, and old souvenir shops. Myrtle Beach is fun for all ages if you want a lighthearted beach escape.

Myrtle Beach also stays quiet compared to other beaches, despite its resort-style facilities. The beach is big enough for you to bag a spot with nobody nearby, and it’s nice to walk the length of the sands.

Myrtle Beach has that Victorian seaside charm. If you are visiting South Carolina’s coast, consider paying it a visit. Read more: 32 Best Things to do in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

35. Poipu Beach, HI

If you love turtles, Poipu Beach on Kauai is one of the best places to visit in the US. The beach is a favorite spot amongst local green sea turtles, and you can spot them both on the shores and in the water. Pack snorkels, and you’ll very likely swim with turtles.

Remember to keep a respectful distance from the turtles. Poipu Beach is an important breeding ground, and it’s essential that the turtles stay healthy and feel comfortable.

Animal lovers will also be excited to hear that monk seals frequent Poipu Beach. If you are lucky, you’ll tick off seeing turtles and seals on the same day. Poipu Beach is one of the best places to see wildlife in  Hawaii .

Read more about Kauai

• 23 Of The Best Things to do in Kauai
• 16 Beautiful and Best Hikes in Kauai, Hawaii
• Where to stay in Hawaii: Best Places For You By Island

36. Main Beach, CA

California reigns supreme with heaps of America’s  best beaches . But Main Beach in Laguna is one of its most relaxing.

Main Beach has a bohemian crowd and atmosphere. The waves are gentle, the crowds are friendly, and there is a scenic boardwalk instead of a busy promenade. Main Beach is a place where you can relax or socialize at ease. And, if you want to get active, there are volleyball and basketball courts.

Laguna Beach is a great suburb to experience the California pace of life. Main Beach is a friendly, laidback spot to do so – much quieter than commercial Coronado Beach.

37. Sandy Beach Park, HI

Are you an experienced surfer? Head to Sandy Beach on Oahu. This beach is a surfers-only spot with massive waves and no swimmers are allowed in the water.

Many beaches on our list are good for surfing, but none are solely dedicated to surfers. A surfers-only beach is perfect for intermediate surfers. You aren’t worrying about dodging swimmers and other water traffic and can concentrate fully on developing your skills. Even experienced surfers will appreciate the chance to let their hair down.

Read more about Oahu

• 5 Unforgettable Reasons to Visit Oahu
• 15 Best Hikes On Oahu For Incredible Views
• The Best Things to do in Oahu, Hawaii

Best Islands to Visit in the US

When you think of the US, visiting an island isn’t what first comes to mind. Islands are preciously sprinkled across each state, so you’ll have to carefully decide which island works best for you.

The US has some beautiful island destinations. These are our top ten islands to visit in America.

38. Key West, FL

Key West is a beautiful island on the Florida Keys archipelago. It has a tropical climate and idyllic summers, only around 90 miles north of Cuba. Key West definitely feels more Caribbean than American. Read more: Best All Inclusive Resorts in Florida

For scuba divers and marine biology enthusiasts, Key West is the best choice of US islands. It is home to the third largest barrier reef in the world – behind Belize and Australia. PADI-certified visitors can hop on a dive cruise and explore the reef for themselves.

You can spot all types of marine animals, including turtles, manatees, whales, dolphins, sharks, eels, and many species of tropical fish. There are thirteen species of local whales around Key West alone.

• 33 of the Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida
• Where to Stay in The Florida Keys
• Best Stops on a Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary

39. Big Island, HI

Big Island is, in case you haven’t guessed, the biggest island in Hawaii. There is so much space to roam and experience the island’s natural beauty that you barely have to cross paths with other people if you don’t want to. Big Island is full of rainforest, volcanic landscapes, and stunning tropical beaches. There are some incredible places on Big Island, including Punalu’u Beach, a black sand beach home to sea turtles.

Big Island is tropical, not rugged like Nantucket and Mount Desert Island. The island is also central to recent history. It is on Big Island that Captain James Cook attempted to expand the British colony and met his death.

Big Island is the best island if you want endless choices of things to do and space to enjoy your holiday. The island ticks a lot of boxes, so it really is the best of all worlds. Read more: Where to stay in Hawaii: Best Places For You By Island

40. Kauai, HI

Kauai is another Hawaiian paradise. Chances are, you’ll recognize Na Pali Coast from multiple Hollywood films and travel magazines. The towering green cliffs have a crinkled effect from all the ridges, and the bright green is a stunning contrast to the bright blue waters.

It’s no surprise that Kauai has the nickname ‘the Garden Isle’. Kauai is a gorgeous option if you want to experience a lush, tropical island. Most people agree that it is the most beautiful island in Hawaii – which is saying something.

41. South Padre Island, TX

Unlike Sanibel Island, South Padre Island is not small. The 34-mile-long barrier island is a tropical destination off the coast of Texas . A solid allrounder island destination, South Padre Island comes to life every spring break and summer, shaking off its off-season lull.

South Padre has a bit of everything. There is a turtle conservation center, Gravity Park theme park, and the largest outdoor sandcastle in the US – an impressive title, we think you’ll agree. In busy seasons, there are many activities, like horseback riding on the beach, jet skiing, and parasailing. The nightlife gets busier too, and it is a fun spot to meet other people on holiday.

South Padre Island isn’t a resort but has an unmistakable touristy feel. The island is a whole readymade package for a summer trip, with enough tourist infrastructure to minimize your planning time. It is one of the best places to visit if you want a fun island experience in the US.

42. Jekyll Island, GE

Jekyll Island has more of a resort vibe than Mount Desert. You can play golf (or mini golf), go biking, play tennis, or visit the water park. Jekyll Island is the best place for those who want a commercial, fun island experience in the US.

Jekyll Island is also home to Georgia’s only turtle rehabilitation center. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center has been open for 15 years and aids in rehab, release, and public education on sea turtles. Visiting Jekyll Island is perfect for those who want to learn more about turtles, not just spend their time unwinding with commercial activities. It is easily one of the best places to visit in Georgia.

43. Block Island, NE

Block Island is so small that it houses more birds than people. The island is located offshore of Rhode Island and only has around 1,000 permanent residents. If you want an untouched, natural getaway, Block Island is a dreamy choice. Its beaches get busy in summer when around 20,000 temporary residents swoop in to enjoy the island in its warmest season. However, off-season, you should nearly get Block Island’s pristine beaches to yourself. Even in summer. Block Island has a windswept, rugged, and wild feel – perfect for a romantic island escape.

Finding things to do comes naturally on Block Island, so let yourself be inquisitive and seek out the prettiest spots. Admiring the view from Mohegan Bluffs cliffs, walking Rodman’s Hollow, and visiting North Light lighthouse are all popular activities if you are stuck for choice, though. Block Island is a designated is full of greenery and coastal flora. The 19th century Block Island Southeast Light on Mohegan Bluffs was designated a National Historic Landmark.

44. Kiawah Island, SC

Kiawah Island is a mostly privatized barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. Just south of Charleston, the island is well combined with a city break or road trip.

While much of the island is owned by Kiawah Island Golf Resort, there are plenty of public areas to justify non-guests visiting. The resort is actually a massive benefit for the island as the expansive golf course has prevented further development and protected the island’s green space. Kiawah Island still has an untouched feel without too many facilities and infrastructure.

Visitors who aren’t guests can enjoy the signposted public areas. Kiawah Island has ten miles of coastline – so pick whichever spot takes your fancy and enjoy a beach day. Otherwise, go shopping, sample local cuisine, or fish off one of the many piers.

45. Mount Desert Island, ME

Mount Desert Island is easily one of the best places to visit for an island experience. The approximately 70,000-acre island is situated off the coast of Maine and has a huge French influence. It is also classed as part of Acadia National Park.

Mount Desert Island has a rugged coastline, best explored by tour boat. You can catch a tour from Bar Harbor and spot lighthouses, whales, and many coastal bird species. This island is the place for you if you like birdwatching or want to explore more rugged beauty.

46. Nantucket, MA

Fancy an adventure? Nantucket is one of the tiniest islands on our list. It is completely isolated and located off the coast of Massachusetts. Nantucket has a long history of whaling and used to be America’s prime whaling hub – which is hard to believe given how tiny it is.

The island keeps that whaler character, and the island has cobbled streets with many historic buildings. Forget a historic district; Nantucket feels like one big museum. There’s lots of culture, and you can admire the lighthouses, visit the Nantucket Shipwreck and Life Saving Museum, and the Whaling Museum. Maritime remains close to the community’s heart.

Nantucket is just an hour from Hyannis by fast ferry. It is a grand island if you want an expeditionary, remote experience of the US.

Major Attractions – Best Places to Visit in the USA

So, we’ve covered the top 40 best places to visit in the US. But what about our runners-up? These are great places to visit that almost made our top 40. From national parks to theme parks, let’s take a quick look.

47. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is bucket list worthy; there’s no doubt about it. There’s ongoing controversy over whether the falls are better from the US or Canadian side. But you can easily visit Niagara Falls from Buffalo or on a multi-day excursion from New York. You can find our guide on where to stay in Niagara Falls here .

Once you arrive at Niagara Falls, you can take a boat trip to get close to the cascades. Pack waterproofs, as the waterfall is so strong that you typically get drenched by the spray. On land, head to Prospect Point for the best views.

If you love bucket list attractions and ticking off world wonders, Niagara Falls is one of the most fantastic places to visit in the US. Who knows, you might also decide to cross the border and see the falls from the Canadian side. There are also amazing things to do around Niagara Falls, including this snowshoeing wine tasting tour .

Read more about Niagara Falls

• 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas
• The Best Things to do in Niagara Falls
• Niagara Falls Road Trip – The Best of the Niagara Parkway

48. Walt Disney World

Disney World is a bit of a contrast to our other runners-up, but it is certainly one of the most memorable places to visit in the US. No matter your age, Disney World is a magical place to experience.

If you are rushed for time, prioritize Magic Kingdom Park, where you’ll find the Disney World palace and firework displays. Otherwise, slowly make your way around the six-themed lands – trying rides and meeting costumed characters along the way. Disney World is one of the most nostalgic, entertaining attractions in the world.

Disney World is located in Orlando, Florida, a hotspot for theme parks and water parks. You can read our complete guide to the best theme parks in Florida here .

• The Best Things to do in Orlando, Florida

49. Antelope Canyon

If you use social media, there is no chance that you haven’t seen Antelope Canyon before. You’ll recognize the slot canyon from its wave-like rock surfaces and red sandstone color. In the artiest shots , the photographer captures a single ray of light streaming from above and casting light on the shaded canyon floor. It’s a beautiful place, to say the least.

Antelope Canyon is located in Arizona and is on the Navajo tribal lands. You can easily book guided tours online,like this tour on Get Your Guide .  Keep in mind that it’s not permitted to enter Antelope Canyon without a guide, and guides must be licensed by the Navajo tribe community.

Read more about other places to visit in the USA

• 21 Best All-inclusive Resorts in the USA
• 24 Best Hikes in the USA to Add to Your Bucket list
• Best National Parks – USA Edition
• How to Visit Mount Rushmore – The Ultimate Guide
• Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota

50. Pacific Coast Highway

One of the most best places to visit in the USA is a stretch of highway taking that runs from Washington State to Oregon to California. However, the most beautiful stretch of The Pacific Coast Highway takes you from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The drive doesn’t actually start in the city center of San Francisco, it actually really begins once you reach Monterey. From here the drive down the gorgeous coast takes you through Big Sur where you’ll enjoy views from sea cliffs and picture perfect beaches galore.

If you want to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway, highlights include Olympic National Park in Washington through Oregon then on through California to Redwood NP. It’s then time to hit the famous landmarks of Big Sur highway 1 which include the Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, McWah Falls, and Hearst Castle.

Read more about the Pacific Coast Highway

• Things to do in Monterey
• Big Sur Camping – 15 Campgrounds in Big Sur for Your Next Trip
• Things to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
• Big Sur Photography Guide

To Conclude

There are so many ‘best places to visit in the US that you’ll definitely need to plan a return trip. The country is one of the greatest tourist destinations in the world – with tourist attractions, natural beauty, and outdoor activities galore.

Hopefully, you are leaving with a dream destination in mind now. Whether you are heading to the east coast or the west, mountains or the desert, you’ll have a fantastic time in the US. Still, stuck between choices? Take a vote or toss a coin.

Read more about other places to visit around the world

• 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico
• 41 Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada
• 19 Beautiful Places to Visit in Switzerland
• 18 of the Best Places to Visit in Greece
• 20 Amazing Places to Visit in the UK
• Bucket List Travels – 52 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime
• Beautiful Isolated Places on Earth – In Photos
• 23 of the Most Iconic Places to Visit in Australia
• 20 of the Best places to visit in Wales

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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2 thoughts on “50 Best Places to Visit in the USA”

Wow wonderful Blog to read. As I witnessed one of the Best Blogs after Long time. Really Nice to see the different places in the USA. Thanks for posting Such a Great Blog.

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38 Places in the US Every American Should Visit

Posted: June 20, 2023 | Last updated: June 20, 2023

Every traveler has a bucket list of places to see in this life. Beyond these shores, it might be Stratford-on-Avon in England for those with a literary bent; Normandy for those honoring the sacrifice of American soldiers who came ashore in northern France to liberate Europe from the Nazis and never came home; or the Coliseum in Rome for civil engineers marveling at ancient Roman ingenuity.

There are plenty of places here in the United States. that are well worth visiting, too, of course - many of them unique in the world.

24/7 Tempo has compiled a list of places in the U.S. every American should visit. These places of interest run the gamut from national parks to museums to sites where Americans can reflect on the ongoing struggle for freedom and liberty. We assembled our list from sources such as the National Park Service , Britannica , Battlefields.org , the Washington DC , PBS , and the official travel sites for various states. This is by no means a comprehensive list - rather a catalog of some of the destinations we consider to be uniquely American.

You’d expect to see places such as Ellis Island, Gettysburg, the Grand Canyon, and the Statue of Liberty on such a list. But it’s so worth checking out destinations like Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, the world’s biggest cave system; the Doo-Wop architecture of the Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District in New Jersey; and the mesmerizing accomplishment of the Ford Rouge River car assembly line in Michigan, founded by Henry Ford. ( Check these classic images of motels with a vintage vibe .)

It will be cheaper for Americans to be on the road again to visit these places this summer. The average U.S. gas price was $3.56 as of June 15, almost $1.50 less than $5.03 recorded on June 16, 2022, according to the fuel-saving website GasBuddy - whose 2023 Summer Travel Survey reports that 64% of Americans are planning to take a summer road trip this year, up from 58% in 2022. ( To keep you company, consider America’s favorite road trip songs .)

Cape Canaveral

> Location: Florida > National significance: It served as the launch site for Apollo missions, including the historic moon landing, and was a key location for NASA's space shuttle program.

ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs

Ellis Island

> Location: New York/New Jersey > National significance: The nation's main federal immigration station from 1892 to 1954, it represents the hopes and dreams of newcomers to our shores and stands as a symbol of American diversity.

Grand Canyon

> Location: Arizona > National significance: It's one of America's - and the world's - most stunning natural wonders.

Fenway Park

> Location: Massachusetts > National significance: It's the oldest baseball stadium in the U.S., opened in Boston the week the Titanic sank in 1912.

Coney Island

> Location: New York > National significance: A legendary Brooklyn amusement destination, it has been a cultural icon for over a century.

Mammoth Cave

> Location: Kentucky > National significance: It is the longest known cave system in the world - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a designated National Park.

> Location: Pennsylvania > National significance: It's a key site in American history, scene of the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War.

> Location: Virginia > National significance: Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, designed the estate and lived here.

Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill

> Location: Massachusetts > National significance: These locations represent critical moments in the American Revolution, highlighting the colonists' resolve, their pursuit of independence, and the battles that led to the formation of the United States of America.

Redwood National and State Parks

> Location: California > National significance: The parks are home to ancient and towering coast redwoods, the tallest trees on Earth.

Fort McHenry

> Location: Maryland > National significance: The fort successfully defended Baltimore against a British naval assault here, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner."

Monument Valley

> Location: Arizona/Utah > National significance: An iconic symbol of the American West, its landscape, with towering sandstone buttes and mesas, has been featured in many films.

> Location: California > National significance: Its rugged coastline, towering cliffs, and pristine beaches create a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting.

Arlington National Cemetery

> Location: Virginia > National significance: The first and largest military cemetery in America, it is hallowed ground, honoring those who sacrificed their lives in service to the country.

> Location: Nevada > National significance: A stunning feat of engineering, built during the Great Depression, the dam provides water to more than 16 million people.

Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District

> Location: New Jersey > National significance: It's a mid-20th-century architectural wonderland, with more than 200 motels built in the so-called Doo-Wop style

Lincoln Memorial

> Location: Washington, D.C. > National significance: It serves as a symbol of national unity, freedom, and equality, commemorating Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War and his emancipation of the enslaved.

Ebenezer Baptist Church

> Location: Georgia > National significance: The spiritual home of Martin Luther King Jr. and his family, it served as a hub for the civil rights movement.

Glacier National Park

> Location: Montana > National significance: Often referred to as the "Crown of the Continent Ecosystem," the park and its mountains, lakes, and ancient glaciers represent the epitome of natural beauty.

Independence Hall

> Location: Pennsylvania > National significance: It's the birthplace of American independence, where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated, adopted, and signed

The Smithsonian Institution

> Location: Washington, D.C. > National significance: The world's largest complex of museums and research facilities, it preserves and showcases American art, technology, and culture, as well as displaying Asian, African, and international art.

San Diego Zoo

> Location: California > National significance: One of the world's most innovative zoological parks, it is renowned for its commitment to conservation and animal welfare.

Washington Monument

> Location: Washington, D.C. > National significance: As the tallest stone structure and obelisk in the world, it represents the ideals of liberty, democracy, and the enduring legacy of Washington's leadership.

West Point Academy

> Location: New York > National significance: Officially known as the United States Military Academy, it has been a premier institution for training future military leaders since 1802.

Grand Ole Opry

> Location: Tennessee > National significance: The cradle of country music, it is home to the longest-running radio broadcast in U.S. history, presenting the biggest names in country music since 1925.

New Orleans

> Location: Louisiana > National significance: Known for its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, it is renowned as a hub of music (it is considered the birthplace of jazz) and cuisine.

> Location: California > National significance: The global center of the entertainment industry, it represents the dreams and aspirations of actors, filmmakers, and others in the movie world.

Appalachian Trail

> Location: Eastern US > National significance: An iconic long-distance hiking trail, stretching over 2,180 miles from Georgia to Maine, the trail offers a transformative experience for hikers.

Four Corners Monument

> Location: Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico > National significance: The only place in the United States where four states - Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah - intersect at a single point, the landmark allows visitors to stand in all four simultaneously.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

> Location: Ohio > National significance: It's a prestigious institution that recognizes and celebrates the most influential figures in rock 'n' roll.

Yellowstone National Park

> Location: Wyoming > National significance: The first national park in the U.S., mostly in Wyoming but spanning three states, the park is renowned for its iconic geysers, most notably Old Faithful.

Ford River Rouge Complex

> Location: Michigan > National significance: Home to one of the largest automobile manufacturing facilities in the world, which played a pivotal role in the development of the assembly-line production method, the still-functioning plant offers tours to visitors.

Hot Springs

> Location: Arkansas > National significance: Known as "America's Spa," the city has a rich history dating back to Native American tribes who revered the region's healing properties of the thermal waters.

Wrigley Field

> Location: Illinois > National significance: The second-oldest MLB stadium in America and the last to get lights in 1988, Wrigley Field is renowned for its passionate fans, its lively game-day atmosphere, and its place in baseball history.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial

> Location: North Carolina > National significance: It is the birthplace of modern aviation, commemorating the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, who achieved the first powered, controlled, and sustained flight in 1903.

> Location: Georgia > National significance: The first planned city in America, established in 1733, Savannah's was meticulously designed by General James Oglethorpe with a memorable grid system of squares and parks.

National Archives Museum

> Location: Washington, D.C. > National significance: This institution is home to the country's most important historical documents and records, including the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, among other pivotal artifacts.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

> Location: Alabama > National significance: It chronicles the struggles, triumphs, and sacrifices of people who fought for racial equality - from the Jim Crow repression of the 1800s to the sit-ins and demonstrations of the 1960s.

Mississippi Petrified Forest

> Location: Mississippi > National significance: A unique natural wonder, it's home to a collection of ancient petrified wood, some dating back over 36 million years.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

> Location: Hawaii > National significance: This historic site pays honor to those who died in one of the most pivotal events in American history - the Japanese sneak attack on Dec. 7, 1941.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

> Location: Tennessee/North Carolina > National significance: Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, it is renowned for its stunning landscapes, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife.

White Sands National Park

> Location: New Mexico > National significance: This eerie field of white gypsum dunes, surrounded by the White Sands Missile Range, is home to thousands of animal species, some of them chalky white, and some found only here.

Wynwood Arts District

> Location: Florida > National significance: This Miami neighborhood has transformed from a warehouse district into a world-renowned hub for street art, galleries, and restaurants.

Statue of Liberty

> Location: New York > National significance: A symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope, the statue represents the welcoming of immigrants and stands as a beacon of liberty and opportunity.

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Top 5 places to encounter wildlife in Queensland

• Atherton Tablelands

By Australia specialist Connor

From rainforest to reef, the diverse landscapes of Queensland are home to a surprising assortment of animals that you can discover in this Australian state.

A rainbow of fish darting over the Great Barrier Reef. Crocodiles sunning themselves on the muddy banks of the Daintree River. Getting up close and personal with protected kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas in Port Douglas. I’m always floored by how many of Australia’s renowned animals you can find in Queensland. Here’s my choice for the top five places to encounter wildlife on a visit.

Bird watching in the Atherton Tablelands

Sitting out on the porch at Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat  in the tropical rainforest of the Atherton Tablelands , a cacophony of bird calls rang out through the air. The elevated deck was surrounded by trees, making me feel entirely immersed in the forest. All I had to do was sit back and relax while flocks of bright-white cockatoos flew by, and eastern whipbirds sang their distinctive tune. The whipbirds’ call is like nothing I’d ever heard — it sounds like the zap of a laser or a crack of a whip, a comparison that earned this mohawked grey-and-yellow bird its name.

The bird life is so diverse at Rose Gums that the hotel even has a page on its website dedicated to listing the more than 160 species that you might be able to see while staying here. This includes endemic species, such as the grey-headed robin, mountain thornbill, and Atherton scrubwren.

Some of the rooms have picture windows framing the bathtub, so you can even look for birds while soaking in an indulgent bubble bath. If you’d rather be one with the brush while birding, you can explore the 10 km (6 mi) of walking tracks on the property.

You can also find cassowaries here, a large, flightless, and surprisingly fast bird that stands out for its unique plumage of black quill-like feathers topped by a red neck, blue face, and a keratin crown on its head. Cassowaries also have wolverine-sharp nails on three of its toes and are known for scratching vehicles. While sometimes elusive in other parts of Queensland, cassowaries are so abundant here that the hotel asks you to place a protective cover on your car so the birds don’t wreck the paint job.

Marine life on Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling over the Great Barrier Reef , not only can you see the orange-and-white striped clownfish, but many others of ‘the Great 8’ — eight charismatic residents of the biodiverse reef. The list also includes sharks, sea turtles, potato cod, Māori wrasse, giant clams, manta rays, and whales.

I remember the feeling of the refreshing seawater caressing my skin as I gazed down into a watery world below, watching grey reef sharks working their way through the water and moray eels peeking out from their lairs beneath mounds of coral. Others on my dive boat spotted sea turtles gliding by, and our snorkel guide talked about the tiger sharks and hammerheads that can be found along the reef.

While there’s been much discussion over the overall health of the reef in recent years, I found the reef was incredibly vibrant. The spiny branches of staghorn coral, some growing to more than two m (6.5 ft) tall, towered over the seafloor. Meanwhile, the layered spirals of plate coral have also been reported by the Australian Institute of Marine Science to be regenerating their habitats at a 14 times higher rate — that’s two decades faster — than other coral types.

I was also entranced by brain coral, covered in a maze of grooves that make them look indeed just like a brain, and the undulating mushroom corals, which seem to change their hue in different angles of light.

Manta rays, whales & sea turtles on the southern reef

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland is all about finding the right experience for you , which might include an overnight stay at one of the outlying islands on the southern stretch of the reef. This includes the rustic rooms and tents on Lady Elliot Island and a more sophisticated stay on Heron Island . At both hotels, the reef is so close to the shore that you can wade into the water and instantly be immersed in vibrant marine life.

For eco-focused, solar-powered lodging, plot a course to Lady Elliot Island, but for a bit more luxury, I recommend a stay at the Heron Island Resort. Set on its own little stretch of reef, you can arrive to Heron Island by ferry, or swoop in more swiftly on a seaplane or helicopter. Heron Island has the feeling of a Robinson Crusoe's desert island with a smattering of lavish trappings, like waterfront massages and wine-and-cheese sunset cruises, thrown in for good measure. There’s a wide mix of rooms available, from the simple and comfortable Turtle Rooms to the beachfront Heron Suites.

On both Lady Elliot and Heron, you’ll have the chance to see manta rays dancing gracefully in the sunlight-dappled sea. On Heron Island there’s the added allure of the loggerhead and green sea turtles, which nest here from November to March each year — the eggs usually hatch January to May. You can also look for humpback whales, which pass by the island from June to September.

Crocodiles in the Daintree Rainforest

Beyond the reef and beaches of Queensland, you’ll find the Daintree Rainforest , the oldest rainforest in the world. This is home to a number of reptiles small and large, ranging from spiny Boyd’s forest dragon lizards, which dart up the high trees, to the saltwater crocodiles in the eponymous river.

Boarding a river boat, you’ll travel down the Daintree River to look for crocodiles, some of which grow up to 5 m (16 ft) in length. As you motor along, you can also glimpse snakes hanging from tree branches and birds flying overhead. The boat’s captain and guides are so well acquainted with the area that they know the crocs by name — they could differentiate between the giant reptiles and told us all about the history of each.

The boat stays a comfortable distance from the big reptiles so as not to disturb them. I was there in June — Australia’s winter — when the cold-blooded creatures hunker down a bit. I still saw them lounging their scaly bodies on riverbanks, eking out the sunlight, but our guide said that in summer they’re much more active. This activity ticks up a notch during mating season from November to February when they get much more territorial and more likely to bare their sharp teeth.

Kangaroos, wallabies & koalas in Port Douglas

In a country that’s known for its singular wildlife, few species are more popular more than kangaroos and koalas. There’s a place in Queensland where you can see both of these sought-after Australian animals, as well as emus, kookaburras, wallabies, possum, pythons, crocodiles, and many more.

I suggest a private tour the Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas , a wildlife sanctuary established for the protection, conservation, and observation of animals. The two-hour private tour is designed around you, so guides can take you and your group to the animals that you want to see most.

During the tour, you’ll have a chance to meet with a wildlife keeper and watch a personal reptile presentation. A private tour is also the only way to visit the Tropical Animal Rehabilitation Centre to learn about the Wildlife Habitat’s rescue efforts.

You can also partake of the rare chance to interact with some of the animals. While holding a koala isn’t something I’d usually recommend, the way they handle it at the Wildlife Habitat is very different. The koala won’t be whisked from person to person for a photo op. Instead, you’ll enter the koala enclosure one at a time with the wildlife keeper there ensuring the protection and comfort of the koala at every step.

Read more about trips to Australia

Australia family tour: Sydney, national parks & Great Barrier Reef

14 days from $4,470pp

Highlights of Australia — city, Outback & reef

13 days from $9,450pp

Ultimate luxury tour of Australia

17 days from $38,900pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Highlights of Queensland
• The Great Barrier Reef: find the right experience for you
• Top 10 wildlife experiences in Australia
• Family vacations in Australia
• What to do in Australia: our highlights guide

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Ryan gosling on why he doesn’t take on “dark” roles anymore: “family in mind first”.

The Oscar-nominated actor says he makes every decision with his wife, Eva Mendes, to ensure it's what's best for their family.

By Carly Thomas

Carly Thomas

Associate Editor

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Ryan Gosling takes a lot into consideration before choosing his next movie role.

The Oscar-nominated actor recently opened up to The Wall Street Journal about his decision to avoid taking on darker projects so that he can be present with his family .

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Gosling and Mendes, who met prior to starring together in 2012’s  The Place Beyond the Pines , share two daughters , Esmeralda Amada and Amada Lee.

The Barbie star added that 2016’s La La Land — which he starred in alongside Emma Stone — was the first film he signed onto with a different perspective in mind since having children.

“It was just sort of like, ‘Oh, this will be fun for them, too, because even though they’re not coming to set, we’re practicing piano every day or we’re dancing or we’re singing,'” Gosling explained of the roles he has accepted in recent years. “Their interest in Barbie and their disinterest in Ken was an inspiration. I thought they were already making little movies about their Barbies on the iPad when it happened, so the fact that I was going off to work to make one too, we just felt like we were aligned.”

Gosling noted that once he had children, he became “way more conscious of everything” that he’s done in life and potentially will do in the future.

“I’m trying to just figure out who they are and be there for them in the way that I can,” he said. “They’re such clear and distinct personalities that it’s sort of becoming obvious,” adding, “You just want to be everything they deserve.”

In addition to his family, The Gray Man actor said he also now focuses on taking roles that he’s actually passionate about, as well as movies that target a wider audience — such as his latest project, The Fall Guy , which hits theaters Friday.

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Who will win Kentucky Derby 2024 at Churchill Downs? See which horses experts are picking

Twenty horses will bolt out of the starting gate Saturday night at  Churchill Downs  in the 150th running of the  Kentucky Derby .

Planning to bet but still unsure which horses to place money on?  The Courier Journal  asked some horse racing experts for their insight after last Saturday's draw .

Here are their picks to win this year's  Run for the Roses :

Fred Cowgill, WLKY sports anchor

Winner: Sierra Leone

Comment: "I'll be stepping aside at the end of May after 38 years on the job, so this is extra special. Sierra Leone has done everything right. He's a nose away from being unbeaten. He's a monster come-from-behind horse. He's going to have to navigate a bunch of traffic, but that's the Kentucky Derby."

Paul Miles, WHAS Radio

Comment: "Winner of the Blue Grass Stakes at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington earlier this year. He had a tough time getting into the starting gate for that race, but he won. I think he can get the 1 1/4 mile on Derby Day."

Jody Demling, CBSSports.com

Comment: "Fierceness is probably the best horse in the race; no question he has got the best speed. One drew outside, one drew inside; one closes, one likes the speed. I think they meet in the end, and Sierra Leone catches Fierceness right on the wire, and it's a great Derby 150."

Alicia Hughes, Gaming Today horse racing reporter

Comment: "I think he has the fewest amount of questions around him, compared to some of the other top contenders. I think, on paper, Fierceness is the best horse on figures, but we don't know which version of him is going to show up. I'm going to stick with the horse that has been the most visually impressive to me so far, Sierra Leone."

Eric Crawford, WDRB sports

Winner: Fierceness

Comment: "I think he is significantly better. Even if he runs his second-best race, I think he wins. As far as the next, it gets a little tougher for me, but I think the second-best horse is Sierra Leone."

Dominique Yates, WLKY sports reporter

Comment: "Even though that 17 spot is a little bit tricky, a little bit too far on the outside. This horse has great speed and looked great on the track at Churchill Downs all week."

Darren Rogers, Churchill Downs communications senior director

Winner: Just a Touch

Comment: "He's only had three starts. He's a little bit like last year's winner Mage, where he's playing late in the game. If you want to do it akin to maybe college basketball, Fierceness might be a stud senior, but Just a Touch might be that hot-shot freshman who might be good enough to take it all. If I had to bet, I'm going Just a Touch because of the odds, but Fierceness is going to be very tough to beat."

Dan Dry, KentuckyDerby.com photographer

Winner: Mystik Dan

Comment: "Hey, since my name is Dan, I got to go with Mystik Dan. Why not?"

Travis Stone, Churchill Downs track announcer

Comment: "The Blue Grass was a sharp pace; he was right on top of it. Fierceness is going to be tough, though."

Kevin Kerstein, Churchill Downs communications

Winner: Honor Marie

Comment: "A long shot in the Kentucky Derby for Louisville native Whit Beckman. These connections have invested so much into the horse race industry. This horse is doing better than I've seen any other horse on the racetrack doing."

Kendrick Haskins and John Boel, WAVE News

Comment: "It's tough when the two favorites get the worst draws they could possibly get. I am going to go for history and say Fierceness becomes the first horse to win the Kentucky Derby from the 17 hole."

Robert Sanchez, Dominican Republic reporter

Comment: "He got a lot of versatility, he got a good combination with (jockey) Tyler Gaffalione. He won in the Risen Star and the Blue Grass."

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg and his wife, Rachel

Comment: "We are rooting for Sierra Leone."

Reach sports reporter Prince James Story at [email protected] and follow him on X at @PrinceJStory.

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