top ten us tourist destinations

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.

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New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

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

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

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

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

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

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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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.

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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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24 Best Places to Visit in the United States

Written by Lana Law Updated May 3, 2023

Author Lana Law has spent many years traveling to all corners of the United States.

With so much to see in this vast country, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to planning a trip in the United States. World-class cities , some known for history and others known for fun or glamour, give you a broad spectrum of places to choose from. The best places to visit in the United States may simply depend on your personal interests.

Along the Eastern Seaboard , New York and Washington, D.C. offer two uniquely different city experiences. Along the West Coast , San Francisco and Los Angeles are both hot spots for tourists. In the Southwest , Las Vegas brings the desert to life, and the Grand Canyon shows off one of nature's greatest creations.

Beyond the mainland are the beaches of Waikiki and the tropical Hawaiian Islands , as well as Alaska. These are just a few key locations, but wonderful destinations for any type of traveler can be found all over the country.

Discover more of America with our list of the best places to visit in the United States.

1. New York

2. san francisco, 3. the grand canyon, 5. las vegas, 7. washington, d.c., 9. los angeles, 10. new orleans, 11. utah's national parks, 12. orlando/kissimmee, 13. chicago, 14. phoenix, 15. savannah, 17. yosemite national park, 18. colorado's rocky mountains, 19. seattle, 20. north carolina's outer banks, 21. santa fe, 22. san antonio, 23. yellowstone national park.

New York City is like no other city in the world, and one that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

For first-time visitors, walking the streets can be like walking through a movie set, with famous sites at every turn, from the Empire State Building , to Rockefeller Plaza , the Chrysler Building , Central Park , The High Line , Times Square , 5th Avenue , Broadway , and of course, the Statue of Liberty .

Sightsee by day, take in a Broadway show in the evening, work in time for shopping or a stroll, and relax and reminisce over a fantastic meal. This is New York. With too much to see and do in a day, a weekend, or even a week, this is a city worth visiting time and time again.

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

This charming and picturesque West Coast city is the perfect getaway destination for couples, singles, or families. Famous sites, charming streets, beautiful views, and outdoor dining are all part of what makes San Francisco such a great place to visit.

Take a cruise on San Francisco Bay, tour Alcatraz , drive over the Golden Gate Bridge , wander around Fisherman's Wharf , hop on an historic street car, or try a do-it-yourself walking tour to explore the city sites.

Summer or fall is a wonderful time to visit, but the climate here is mild and any time of year is pleasant.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco
• Best Free Things to Do in San Francisco

The Grand Canyon is one of those must-see, bucket-list destinations that have been attracting visitors for generations. Gazing out over the canyon walls to an endless horizon and an unfathomable depth below is one of the highlights of any trip in the United States.

Visiting the Grand Canyon can easily be done on a day trip from Las Vegas or Phoenix , and from some smaller cities in the vicinity, including Sedona or Flagstaff . Another option is to incorporate a visit into a larger driving trip through Arizona and surrounding states. A train trip from Williams , AZ on the Grand Canyon Railway is another delightful way to experience the canyon.

The south rim of the Grand Canyon, which is the most popular and most visited section, is open all year, and visitors are welcome at any time of year. To avoid the crush of summer visitors, consider arriving in the spring or fall; the weather is good and the crowds smaller. The road to the north rim of the Grand Canyon is closed in winter due to snow.

• Top Attractions & Things to See at the Grand Canyon
• From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon: Best Ways to Get There

Houston is the perfect city for a friends' getaway, a couples' retreat, or a family vacation. With direct flights from cities across the United States and Canada, you can easily fly in to see a sports game, wander through Houston's Museum District , lounge by a pool at one of the many luxury hotels, and spend your evenings enjoying incredible meals.

Houston has developed into a hot spot for dining in the United States and is now well known for extraordinary cuisine.

If you want a relaxed but outdoor urban experience, rent a bike and peddle your way through the miles of paved trails in the parks or on the downtown streets. Rent a kayak and paddle along Buffalo Bayou in Buffalo Bayou Park .

In less than an hour, you can be on the nearby beaches or exploring Galveston , and along the way, you can make a stop at Space Center Houston .

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Houston

This glittering city of lights in the desert holds a unique appeal, and one that has been attracting visitors for decades. Huge resort complexes, with all kinds of things to see and do at any time of year, have made this a destination that draws everyone, from want-to-be newlyweds who come here to say their vows, to families or singles who just want to hang out around a pool.

Entertainment options are extensive, with some of the music industry's top stars calling Las Vegas home and playing to packed audiences every night. Cirque du Soleil offers another unique experience, and of course, each resort has something to entertain guests, from dancing fountains to an erupting volcano.

When you've had your fill of the city, there is plenty to explore in the surrounding area , with the Grand Canyon , Hoover Dam , Death Valley National Park , and Valley of Fire State Park all within easy day-tripping distance. Las Vegas is ideal for a long weekend if you live in Los Angeles or Phoenix.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas
• Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Las Vegas, NV

Waikiki is one of America's top beaching destinations, with all the comforts of North America on a beautiful tropical island in the Pacific Ocean.

Located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu , Waikiki is a suburb of Honolulu known for the beautiful golden sand beach that stretches along the oceanfront, backed by hotels and retail establishments.

Rent a surfboard and test your skills in the waves, hit the shops when you're done with the beach, and enjoy great dining options in the evening. This is the perfect destination for everyone, from families to couples or singles.

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

Washington, D.C. is the US capitol and home to some of the most famous sites and national treasures in America, from the White House and the Capitol Building to the Smithsonian museums. This city should be on everyone's itinerary of the East Coast .

In the spring, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a beautiful time to visit, when the trees are in full bloom. Summer can be hot. You may want to hit one of the beaches near Washington for a bit of a cool off.

Fall is also a good time to visit, when the hot summer temperatures have cooled off enough to make walking around outside very comfortable and the rush of the busy summer season has passed. In winter, the crowds are definitely smaller, and the city is stunning after a fresh snowfall.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington, DC
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Washington, D.C.

The hot spot of southern Florida, Miami is more than just a great beaching destination. Wonderful beaches can be found all over Florida , but Miami offers an atmosphere like no other city in the state.

The Cuban vibe along Calle Ocho in Little Havana , the Art Deco District in Miami Beach that calls to mind the 1930s era, the endless parade of sports cars cruising along Ocean Drive in the evenings, and the summertime beach scene of South Beach , are just some of the unique aspects that make Miami one of the best cities in the US.

For a unique experience take a day trip from Miami to Everglades National Park to see alligators, turtles, and an array of birds in this one-of-a-kind wetlands area.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami

Southern California has a culture all of its own, and Los Angeles is the epicenter of this unique area. The city has always been associated with glamour, with the suburbs of Hollywood , Beverly Hills , and Bel Air dominating pop culture. Travelers will find all kinds of vacation possibilities in the Los Angeles area.

Hollywood is a must for movie lovers, families come to experience nearby Disneyland , and shoppers will definitely find what they're looking for in the Los Angeles area .

If you are looking for a little sand and surf, head to one of the many beaches around LA . For an interesting natural history experience, be sure to visit La Brea Tar Pits to see fossil remains of prehistoric animals that roamed this area 40,000 years ago.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles
• Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles, CA

New Orleans is like no other southern city. The mix of cultures, with strong French and Spanish influences, is more reminiscent of the Caribbean than the United States. Cajun and Creole cuisine, jazz music, and the architecture of the French Quarter set this city apart.

Combined with an assortment of luxury resorts and hotels, New Orleans makes a perfect destination for a long weekend getaway .

The highlight of New Orleans' calendar year is Mardi Gras , when elaborate costumes and outrageous floats light up the streets, music can be heard everywhere, and the celebrations seem never-ending. However, if crowds are not your thing, you may want to avoid this time of year.

The best time to visit New Orleans is from December to May, but other seasons offer different benefits. June to November is hotter and prone to storms and hurricanes but is a good time to find deals.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans

Southern Utah is home to a landscape like no other, with canyons, arches, natural amphitheaters, and oddly beautiful rock formations. Fortunately, Utah's parks offer access to the state's most incredible scenery.

Zion National Park is one of the most outstanding, and particularly of interest for its hiking trails . Soaring cliff walls, waterfalls, and the river running through the valley, making this one of the most visited parks in the United States .

Arches National Park , near the town of Moab, is home to more than 2,000 sandstone arches, but is much more than the name suggests. Rock spires, petrified dunes, views to distant mountain peaks, and the numerous adventure opportunities in the area , make this a place you'll want to spend some time. It's also a top mountain biking destination in the United States .

Nearby, but completely different in character, is Canyonlands National Park . Some sections of this park are as enchanting as the Grand Canyon but not nearly as busy. Plan on at least a day to see two separate sections of the park, and more if you want to enjoy the hiking trails.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a completely different scene, with a huge natural amphitheater providing the base for a forest of colorful rock pinnacles. The hiking trails in Bryce , which take you through this mystical landscape, are mostly easy to moderate and worth doing. And lastly, Capitol Reef National Park is a little out of the way but is worth a stop if you can work it into your itinerary.

• Top-Rated National and State Parks in Utah
• Best Campgrounds Near Capitol Reef National Park

Orlando, which for most tourists is synonymous with Kissimmee, is all about the theme parks; Walt Disney World Resort , Universal Studios , and SeaWorld are the big attractions . This is one of the best vacation spots in the US for families . Kids love it. But adults will also enjoy the parks, as well as the shopping, dining, golfing, and sunshine.

School holidays are the busiest time to visit. Christmas and summer holidays are particularly hectic. Fortunately, Orlando is primed for tourists, with all kinds of hotels and home rentals available in the area.

The city is located inland but within easy day-tripping distance of both coasts and the popular Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral on the Atlantic Coast

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches near Orlando, FL

Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a great summer destination, with parks and a beautiful waterfront with amazing beaches . But its arts and cultural attractions, as well as fantastic shopping, make it a popular year-round destination.

The Magnificent Mile , along Michigan Avenue, is the city's most famous area, with high-end luxury stores and galleries, along with famous buildings and outstanding architecture. Some of the tourist highlights include Millennium Park , the Art Institute of Chicago , Navy Pier , and the views from the Willis Tower SkyDeck .

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Chicago

In the heart of the Southwestern US , Phoenix is a huge, sprawling city that attracts large numbers of northerners during the winter months, who come here to escape the cold weather. Phoenix is a great destination for golfing, shopping, relaxing, and generally having a good time.

The greater Phoenix area has some of the finest resorts in the state. They range from giant family-friendly complexes with beaches and waterslides to small, intimate operations where your every whim is indulged.

You may want to pack your golf clubs. The city and surroundings, which include Scottsdale , Mesa , and several other townships, are known in particular for their world-class golf resorts, some of the most important stops on the men's and women's PGA Tour.

If you have extra room in your suitcase, maybe squeeze in your hiking boots, too. Natural areas that showcase the desert landscape can be found within the city and nearby, providing easy access for hiking , and mountain biking. Summer temperatures can be extremely high, but October to April is very pleasant, especially if you want to spend time outdoors.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Phoenix
• Top-Rated Campground in the Phoenix Area

Savannah is the quintessential small southern city, with huge moss-covered trees in the beautiful parks, old southern mansions, and a lovely waterfront area with candy stores and other unique shops in historic buildings. The pace is slow, and the people are friendly.

It's easy to see that Savannah is a city where people live and enjoy life, rather than an area simply developed for tourism. The city center is small enough that you can walk everywhere. This is a city you can see in a day, but the kind of place where you will want to linger.

Nearby are some beautiful beaches at Tybee Island and Hilton Head Island , both of which can be reached by car in well under an hour.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Savannah

Located along the Eastern Seaboard, Boston is a city of history. The famous Freedom Trail leads past some of the city's most famous and historic sites, making sightseeing and navigating through the city extremely easy.

Picturesquely situated along the oceanfront, with ferries connecting the outer suburbs, Boston has a unique charm. Modern skyscrapers stand next to centuries-old buildings, and open public spaces , like Boston Common , give the city a quaint, small-town feel. The city also has a strong arts and cultural scene, and is home to the famous Boston Pops Orchestra .

Boston's winters are legendary. Nor'easters roar ashore every now and again, dumping copious quantities of snow. However, that doesn't stop these hardy residents from enjoying life. The list of things to do in winter is long, and this is still a great time of year for a visit.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston
• Top-Rated Beaches in the Boston Area

While the Grand Canyon is on most international travelers' itineraries, Yosemite is a national treasure that should not be missed. Yosemite Valley is home to some of America's most famous landscapes and iconic natural attractions, from the dramatic waterfalls to the soaring cliff walls of El Capitan and Half Dome .

The captivating photographs of Ansel Adams , the climbing community that has flocked here for decades, and the generations of families who have been coming to the park to enjoy the campgrounds , hike the spectacular trails , and soak up the scenery have all contributed to the park's history.

But long before this, the Miwok people inhabited the area. You can learn more about this at the Yosemite Museum and Indian Village of the Ahwahnee in the park.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

The dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains can be appreciated in many areas of North America, but in Colorado, the climate and small mountain towns make this one of the best places to visit the Rockies. Waterfalls and snow-capped peaks, more than 50 of which reach a height of 14,000 feet or more, make this a beautiful area for sightseeing and appreciating mountain life.

In summer, hiking , mountain biking , and rafting are popular pastimes. Inn winter, the mountains become a playground for skiers and boarders. The ski resorts in Colorado are some of the best in North America.

Some of the best places to visit are the towns of Vail, Aspen , Telluride , and Durango . Scenic drives, like the San Juan Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway , which leaves from Durango, will take you through breathtaking mountain scenery and old mining towns like Silverton and Ouray . Or, hop on the Silverton & Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad for a relaxing day trip through the Rockies.

On the edge of the Rocky Mountains in the southwest corner of Colorado, a little over an hour from Durango, is Mesa Verde National Park . This fantastic park is home to incredible Native American cliff dwellings, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colorado, USA

In the northwest corner of the US is the lovely coastal city of Seattle. Surrounded by water and snow-capped mountains, the city is reminiscent of Vancouver, Canada, with an active, outdoor oriented population and countless things to see and do .

Key sights in the city include the impossible-to-miss Space Needle , the lively Pike Place Market , and the waterfront. Within easy day-tripping distance of the city are beautiful beaches , the Hoh Rain Forest , and mountain landscapes, all waiting to be explored.

Although the winter months see more rain than summer, the city has a mild climate and is a nice place to visit at any time of year. You'll find no shortage of things to do in Seattle in winter .

• Best Museums in Seattle
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North Carolina's Outer Banks are all about beaches. Miles and miles of spectacular beaches on narrow sand islands have been drawing people from across the United States since the 1830s.

Stretching for over 100 miles, these barrier islands have been the go-to place for families every summer for generations whether at campgrounds or wonderful resorts.

Off the beach, historical cities well worth visiting include Nags Head, Kitty Hawk (home to the Wright Brothers Memorial), Duck, Waves, and the towns on Hatteras Island. The Outer Banks are also home to some of America's most famous lighthouses, many of which are open for tours to the top.

Another popular pursuit is deep sea fishing . Many records have been broken by anglers in this offshore hot spot.

Read More: Best Coastal Towns in North Carolina

A melting pot of Spanish, Native American, Mexican, and Anglo-Americans, Santa Fe has a unique vibe that, once experienced, tends to draw one back time and time again. This historical city's pleasant streets, lined by Spanish colonial churches, adobe homes, and towering trees, just beg to be photographed.

Be sure to visit the Plaza, the beating heart of all that's going on in town. Cute cafés, many with patios, line the square and make a perfect perch to do a bit of people watching. After you've had your fill of that, wander into any one of the eclectic and unusual shops nearby.

Santa Fe is ideally positioned close to the mountains, where you'll find some of the best skiing in New Mexico at resorts including Taos, Pajarito, and Siapu.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in New Mexico

Although Dallas and Houston spring to mind first for many people when they think of Texas , those in the know, will always tell you that San Antonio is their favorite. The reasons for this are many: beautiful Spanish colonial churches and missions, the wonderful Riverwalk area, and, of course, The Alamo.

The city is relatively compact and easy to navigate. For a city of its size, it also has a number of excellent resorts and high-end hotels just waiting for you to check-in and be pampered. The city isn't all about history; it's also the home of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), and as a result is a hotbed of foodie delights. Be sure to wander over to the Pearl district to find some of the best places; your taste buds will thank you!

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in San Antonio

The thermal wonderland known as Yellowstone National Park has been drawing visitors since 1872. Bubbling mud pots, colorful boiling-hot water pools, and erupting geysers are sights that continue to amaze thousands of people every day.

Some of the must-sees when visiting the park include Old Faithful, whose eruptions blast scalding water up to 184 feet in the air; the Morning Glory Pool in the Upper Geyser Basin area; and the Minerva Terrace.

The park isn't all about thermal sights — the Lamar Valley is a wonderful area for hiking and seeing wildlife, including the park's signature bison herds.

Read More: Best Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park

Off on its own in the far northwest, above Canada, lies one of the most fascinating states in the union. Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, wild rivers, and wide open spaces are all things that define Alaska .

A frontier attitude still prevails, and can be experienced in places like Anchorage , Fairbanks, and Juneau . This state is one of the most popular places to take a cruise along the Inside Passage where towering mountains reach right down to sea. Or, snuggle up to a roaring fireplace with your special someone at a luxury resort.

Pick your activity or sport; Alaska is a place for doing things outdoors, whether it's camping, mountaineering, canoeing, or fishing. In winter, head for Alaska's ski resorts or maybe catch a glimpse of the northern lights .

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Best Places to Visit in Winter: If you want to experience winter in all its glory, have a read through our article on the Best Winter Vacations in the United States . This isn't about beaches and warm weather getaways, it's for people thinking about snowmobiling, dog sledding, skiing, and drinking hot chocolate in a cozy cottage. And if you're looking to save a little money, see our list of the Best Cheap Ski Holidays in North America .

Getaways for Couples & Families: Trying to come up with somewhere for you and your partner to take a quick trip? See our list of Best Vacation Spots in the US for Couples to find a romantic destination for two. If you're looking for a destination where you can take the kids and have a good time, you'll enjoy our article on the Top Family Vacations in the US .

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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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The 10 best travel experiences in the US, according to Lonely Planet

Oct 20, 2020 • 6 min read

Yellowstone National Park topped the list of best US experiences © Joe Ybarra / EyeEm / Getty Images

The USA boasts countless incredible and unique experiences available to travelers today, from boundless national parks that are sure to thrill outdoor enthusiasts to cultural institutions that educate and inspire. These amazing places are celebrated in the newly released second edition of Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List , our bestseller that ranks the 500 most remarkable experiences around the world in order. Of that number, 29 are based in the US. Here’s the top 10 from the list.

1. Sniff out geysers and grizzlies at Yellowstone National Park

An ever popular destination for lovers of wildlife and nature, it’s no wonder that the incredible Yellowstone National Park came out as the top pick for US destinations on Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List . This wonderful, rugged site was the first national park in America to receive its designation back in 1872, and today it welcomes around 4 million visitors every year. From wildlife watching to spotting geysers, there’s no shortage of experiences available. Nearly 1000 miles of nature trails are open to hikers and walkers, while campgrounds cater to those wishing to sleep beneath the stars.

2. Gaze into Earth’s mightiest abyss at Grand Canyon National Park

This astonishing red-rock abyss at Grand Canyon  is one of the most iconic sights in the US, famous the world over, and is a popular and common bucket-list item for many people. Spanning 227 miles in length and plunging to a depth of 1857m, the immensity of the two-billion-year-old chasm has to be admired in person. Most visitors access the canyon from the South Rim , north of Flagstaff, Arizona , with the view being most spectacular at sunrise and sunset. There’s also rafting along the Colorado River, and enticing, dusty trails.

3. Get high on granite peaks in Yosemite National Park 

With endless waterfalls flowing out of the mountains, giant sequoias and an abundance of wild bears, Yosemite is the beauty of raw nature on display. The rocks are the stars of the show however, with granite peaks and famous ridges like Half Dome and El Capitan that draw climbers, photographers and travelers from all over the world. A Unesco World Heritage site, the park also boasts the emerald-green Yosemite Valley, pristine pathways , winding rivers and lush forests. It's also home to hundreds of wildlife species and over 1000 plant species.

4. Commune with towering trees in Redwood National and State Parks

A glance at Ultimate Travel List is proof that the world is still enthralled by USA’s national and state parks. At Redwood National and State Parks, visitors can stroll amongst some of the tallest, most ancient trees on the planet – Sequoia sempervirens (also known as coastal redwoods), which span beautiful parkland hidden away on California’s northwestern Pacific coast. Up to 115m tall, the 2000-year-old giants stretch through one national park and three companion state parks. Together the parks comprise an International Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site.

5. Peer through the fog at the towers of Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco ’s signature landmark is a proud, towering marvel of art deco design that stretches for nearly 2 miles over the strait below. Beloved by photographers who chase the chance to capture its frame set against the foggy backdrop of the city, the Golden Gate Bridge can be appreciated from a few different vantage points, including Fort Point National Historic Site. It’s possible to hike and bike the entire span of the bridge, while the nearby Golden Gate Park is well worth a visit on a fine day.

6. Yeehaw! Pretend you’re in a classic Western movie in Monument Valley

Enter another world, one of sheer-walled mesas and gigantic buttes, all of which have been the stars of countless films and television series. For 50 million years wind and water eroded the land, chipping away at the surface of the plateau. The sandstone towers that make this site famous ascend to a height of 370m. Straddling the border of Arizona and Utah , this stunning 91,696 acre area has been home to the Navajo people for a very long time. A 15 mile dirt road loops through  Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park , with the formations being visible along the route.

7. Rock into Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii isn’t exactly a hard sell, with pristine sun, sand, sea, and culture. Located on a hot spot on the Island of Hawai'i , Volcanoes National Park is a huge draw for people who love to get a first-hand glimpse at the power of nature. Visitors can follow hiking trails into thick primal land, past bubbling lava deserts, steaming craters and sulfurous black rocks, or get views of the summit of Mauna Loa, the world's largest volcano. Kilauea, the most active shield volcano on Earth has been erupting nonstop since 1983, and it’s always advised to check the conditions before visiting the park.

8. Hear untold stories at the National Museum of African American History & Culture

This Smithsonian museum  in Washington, DC , celebrates and spotlights the African American experience and how it shaped the United States of America. Inspired by a Yoruban crown, the bronze-tiered building is a work of art in and of itself. Inside, six main floors tell important stories with galleries featuring early accounts of slavery and segregation, a plantation slave cabin, Harriet Tubman’s hymn book, and a shotgun shell from the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Alabama. Interactive displays allow visitors to drive a car following the Green Book and learn how to dance in step. A welcome addition to the nation’s capital, the museum has proven extremely popular, with tickets often booking out.

9. Emulate an elk on the soaring heights of Denali

Rivalling Mt Everest for the title of world’s most imposing mountain, Alaska’s Denali dominates the skyline of the national park. A five-hour ride north of Anchorage and two hours south of Fairbanks, this stunning site enables visitors to explore vast tundra fields and ridge lines as well as look out for the odd caribou, wolf, grizzly bear, or moose. It is also renowned for conserving wildlife, supporting scientific research and ecosystems. The park’s main season is from mid-June to early September, and over 1000 climbers venture here every year in the hopes of reaching incredible heights.

10. Revel in jazz, history and voodoo in the French Quarter 

With picture-perfect pastel buildings, quaint cast iron balconies and beautiful patio gardens, the French Quarter has long been heralded as the beating heart of New Orleans . While today a bustling hotspot for tourists seeking Voodoo shop souvenirs, there is still a compelling magic to be found amidst the crowds at the storied jazz clubs, restaurants and art galleries, and a feeling of deep, rich history that connects the quarter with the city as a whole. 

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• Top 10 Tourist Destinations in the United States

Planning a trip to the United States can be a daunting task due to its vast size and numerous offerings. From the hot temperature of the Chihuahuan Desert to the freezing temperature in Alaska, the wildness of Yellowstone to the bustling cities, the United States offers some of the best tourism experience in the world. Below are the ten best places to visit in the US.

10. New York City

In the year 2015, the city of New York was the most visited city in the country attracting approximately 58.3 million people, 12.3 million of who were international visitors. The city boasts of various tourist attractions including the city’s landmark, the Statue of Liberty. The statue is 152 feet tall and was built in 1886 to symbolize freedom. Just like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building is another city landmark. Tourists can also visit the Brooklyn Bridge and marvel at the architectural wonder. Tourists also visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the footprints of where the twin towers once stood. Central Park offers visitors a natural environment away from the concrete and steel.

9. Yosemite

In 2016, slightly over five million people visited Yosemite National Park. The park in Northern California spans an area of 1,168.681 square meters and was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1984. The park is renowned for its wildness, granite cliffs, waterfalls and giant sequoia groves of which some are more than 3000 years old. The park is home to North America’s highest waterfall at 2,424 ft. and is a popular attraction during late spring when the snowmelt is at its peak.

8. Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a set of islands off the southern coast of Florida. The islands make an ideal tourism destination for tourists seeking a tropical vacation. Apart from the sandy beaches, visitors engage in marine activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking and many more activities. Visitors visit the local museum to view historical artifacts, and the galleries and shops sell unique collections that tourists buy to remember the visit. The local restaurants serve fresh seafood, and the lodges offer world class facilities.

7. Tennessee Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is the busiest park in the US, having recorded approximately 11 million visitors in 2016. The 800-square mile park consists of mountainous terrain, deciduous forest, and a variety of animal and plant species. The black bear is the park’s iconic animal and is found in all elevations around the park. Hikers in the mountain are active all year round although summer records the highest number of visitors. The Alum Cave Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Andrew's Bald Trail are the most used by hikers. For those seeking outdoor adventure, the park is the place to visit.

6. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon in Arizona is a geological wonder shaped by millions of years of geological activities and carved by the Colorado River. The 277-mile long canyon is a major tourist site attracting approximately five million visitors annually. The north and the more popular south rims of the canyon are open to the public. The north rim is more wild and less explored by humans due to its remoteness. It offers the best experience offered nowhere else in the world as proclaimed by President Theodore Roosevelt; “In the Grand Canyon, Arizona has a natural wonder which, so far as I know, is in kind unparalleled throughout the rest of the world."

5. Michigan's Northern Peninsula

The northern part of Michigan often referred to as the Northern Peninsula, consist of wilderness and natural environment with only three percent of the Michigan population inhabiting the area. Due to its wilderness, it is a major tourist attraction with tourists visiting Lake Superior, Michigan, and Huron. Visitors get to see sandy dunes and rocky outcroppings. Those with raging adrenaline can find shipwrecks and visit lighthouses and hike through forests and peaks before kayaking in rivers flowing to the Great Lakes. Some of the animals found in the Northern Peninsula include wolves, coyotes, various species of snakes and rodents. Visitors can also explore mines and experience the working conditions of those who worked in them.

In 2016, 54.1 million local and foreign visitors toured the city of Chicago, a 1.5 million increase from the previous year. Tourists to the city must visit the Art Institute of Chicago which houses hundreds of thousands of artworks that date back to hundreds of years ago. Millennium Park in downtown Chicago presents architecture at its best with state-of-the-art landscape designs and buildings. Visitors also visit the Navy Pier, a shipping facility which was opened in 1916 and serves as one of the city’s main attractions. The Museum of Science and Industry offers one of the best experience - the museum allows tourists to interact physically with the tools and collections including learning how the tools work.

3. New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana, is popular for the Jazz music and Mardi Gras celebrations. It is a city with a unique culture represented in food, music, and architecture. The French Quarter of New Orleans is among the major tourist attraction - the quartet offers French food and architecture. For those who seek festivals, the Mardi Gras offers a once in a lifetime event that spans two weeks. The festival is marked by parades, decorated floats, and dances. The National WWII Museum is a must visit for all tourists, as the museum highlights how the war was fought as well as the weapons used.

2. Drive down California Coast

Driving along California's Pacific coastline is one of the most memorable drives a tourist will ever have. Starting from the Golden Gate in San Francisco through San Jose, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and finally to San Diego, the tourist gets to experience scenic views that can only be seen in California. Making the trip with family and friends makes it a better experience, and you can also make stopovers for photo sessions and breaks. Drivers along the famous Highway One are advised to be careful, drive slowly and prepare adequately before embarking on the journey.

1. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park on the coast of Maine offers tourists with a memorable natural experience. Tourists engage in hiking and camping and experiencing scenic views of a jagged coastline and granite-domed mountains. Most tourists participate in hiking and biking with more than 120 miles of hiking trails. Tourists can rent tents or set up their own in designated areas and experience outdoor nights with their families and friends. The night sky fills up with stars that provide stunning views. In 2015 the park received an estimated 2.81 million people.

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25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

The USA is the cultural force of the modern era. A land built on immigration and pioneering, America is a bastion of modern-day pop culture, free thought and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream. Comprised of 50 states, the USA occupies an area that’s only just marginally smaller than Europe. It’s in this vast country that you will find an unbelievably diverse array of natural landscapes, cityscapes, people and cultures.

From the tropical islands of Hawaii to the desert landscape of the Grand Canyon, as well as mountains and forests, you’ll never be stuck for outdoor pursuits in America. Then there are its multicultural, global cities such as Chicago and NYC itself – the USA is an endlessly fascinating place to discover. Here are the best places to visit in the USA so you can get the most out of your big trip to The States.

25. Aspen [SEE MAP]

One of the most famous ski resorts in the world, Aspen lies in a remote part of the Rocky Mountains in the state of Colorado . Named after the abundance of aspen trees that dot the region, the former mining camp was turned into a popular tourist destination in the mid-twentieth century and has never looked back.

Set amid some stunning snow-covered scenery, the town has four ski slopes – Aspen Highlands, Ajax Mountain, Buttermilk and Snowmass further down the valley. All of them boast large areas where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, sledging, and snowmobiling.

Aspen exploded as a silver mining town in the late 19th century; something reflected in the architecture from this time. Examples include the grand Wheeler Opera House and the brick built Aspen Community Church, among others.

While it is known as a winter destination, Aspen is wonderful to visit at any time of year. Its mountainous landscapes lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor recreational activities.

24. Atlanta [SEE MAP]

The capital and largest city of the state of Georgia , Atlanta is a sprawling, modern city with three urban skylines rising up from the picturesque scenery of rolling hills, pine forest, magnificent old oak trees and charming magnolia and peach trees. Established as a railroad terminus in 1837, Atlanta was burned down by Union forces during the American Civil War only to recover and emerge as the leader of the New South as well as an important national center of commerce and home of the world’s busiest airport.

The busy districts of Downtown, Buckhead and Midtown make up Atlanta’s three dazzling cityscapes of skyscrapers, businesses, shopping, dining and nightlife. The city’s top attractions are the CNN Center, World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium, which features the world’s largest indoor aquarium. Other major places of interest include the boyhood home, church and final resting place of Martin Luther King, Jr., and the home of “Gone With the Wind” author, Margaret Mitchell. A stroll or drive through historic neighborhoods offer Southern culture, cuisine and antebellum homes.

Atlanta boasts an impressive arts and culture scene with many distinguished museums highlighting the likes of Southern art, Civil War history, ancient civilizations as well as numerous theater, symphony and opera venues. For sports and recreation, the city has hundreds of beautiful public parks and gardens of which Centennial Olympic Park and Grant Park are the most popular. Just outside the city, the Chattahoochee River provides facilities for swimming, fishing, boating and tubing.

23. Yosemite National Park [SEE MAP]

One of the most visited national parks in the United States, Yosemite National Park is prized for its jaw-dropping beauty that comprises magnificent granite cliffs, mountains, waterfalls and glaciers. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central eastern California , the park is home to an abundance of diverse wildlife and groves of giant sequoia redwood trees, which are the world’s tallest and oldest living trees.

Yosemite is a massive park area-wise, and while it would be impossible to see all of it in one day, one of the must-see sites is Yosemite Valley. The most visited section of the national park, Yosemite Valley is famous for its extraordinary scenery and incredible granite formations such as Half Dome and El Capitan, a popular rock climbing spot. The valley is also known for its many impressive waterfalls that include Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Falls, one of the world’s highest waterfalls. Other sites not to miss are the groves of giant sequoia trees that can be found at Merced Grove, Tuolumne Grove and Mariposa Grove.

Scenic drives such as Tioga Road, as well as others, offer overlooks like Glacier Point where visitors can awe over breathtaking vistas. Hiking and shuttle bus tours present opportunities to view wildlife like black bears, bobcats and numerous species of birds. Additionally, the Yosemite National Park features historic landmarks like the Leconte Memorial Bridge and Ahwahnee Hotel as well as visitor centers where visitors can learn more about the park and its natural attractions.

22. Portland [SEE MAP]

Straddling the Willamette River in the shadow of the majestic Mount Hood, Portland is the largest city in Oregon as well as the third largest city of the US Pacific Northwest region. While the city is known for its frequent rain drizzle, it is Portland’s climate that produces it with picturesque scenery, including a plethora of rose gardens, which give Portland the nickname, “City of Roses.” Besides its natural attractions , Portland is a popular destination for its relaxed atmosphere, outdoor activities and large number of microbreweries.

A popular central point for locals and tourists alike is Pioneer Square, a charming, laid-back courtyard with chess boards, a cascading water fountain and artistic sculptures. Surrounding the square is the downtown district, bustling with modern high-rise buildings, commercial businesses, museums and significant landmarks like the Portlandia statue and the White Stag sign. Just north of downtown is Portland’s Old Town, where tourists can see historical remnants of the city’s original settlement.

Outside the downtown district, trendy neighborhoods feature attractive architecture, the world’s largest independent bookstore and shopping, dining and nightlife options as well as beautiful gardens and urban parks like the Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden and Tom McCall Waterfront Park.

Covering thousands of wooded acres within city limits, Forest Park is the nation’s largest city park with many hiking and biking trails. The Oregon Zoo and the Oaks Amusement Park both provide endless family fun, while the nearby Mount Hood Forest Recreation offers a great excursion to enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities like climbing, hiking, horseback riding and skiing.

21. San Antonio [SEE MAP]

The jewel of Texas , San Antonio is a city steeped in both rich history and modern day appeal. Located in south-central Texas, the city is one of the largest in the United States and best known as home to the Alamo. The city’s top attraction, the Alamo is a historical mission in which famous American folk heroes, Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett, died while defending it during the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. In addition to the Alamo, The San Antonio Missions National Park preserves four more historic Spanish missions.

Another of San Antonio’s most visited attractions is the Riverwalk, a vibrant pedestrian scene of restaurants, shops, hotels and entertainment venues stretching along both sides of the San Antonio River right in the middle of the downtown area. A number of museums offer excellent glimpses into the city’s colorful history and culture that consists of Spanish, Mexican and the Western cowboy. Families can enjoy hours of fun at the San Antonio Zoo, one of the largest in the nation, as well as at theme parks like Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

A couple of exceptional experiences not to miss in San Antonio are helicopter rides and ghost hunting tours. Just outside San Antonio city limits, tourists can explore the fascinating underground features of the Cascade Caverns and the Natural Bridge Caverns.

20. Savannah [SEE MAP]

The quintessential Southern city, Savannah draws millions of tourists every year to its charming scenes of Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, moss-draped oaks and leisurely pace. Lying on the Atlantic Coast in eastern Georgia, Savannah is the state’s oldest city, rich in history, hospitality and natural beauty.

Because Savannah was spared during the American Civil War, the city’s large Historic District is the most popular attraction . A walk around the district’s cobbled streets allows views and tours of beautiful old mansions and historic sites such as the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low (creator of the Girl Scouts) as well as one of the nation’s oldest Jewish synagogues, one of the oldest African-American Baptist churches and the impressive Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Also among the city’s most noted features are its historic squares that sit amid settings of lovely parks, huge oak trees, Victorian homes, statues, fountains and important memorials. Another tourist magnet is Factor’s Walk, a row of restored, old warehouses leading down to the riverfront, which now house attractive shops, galleries and restaurants.

Outside the Historic District, tourists can explore Civil War forts, visit state-of-the-art cultural centers and museums like the Jepson Center for the Arts and the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences. A number of parks, including Forsyth Park, offer lovely scenery and recreational activities. Savannah is also well known for its numerous ghost tours and historic cemeteries. With short day trips to nearby islands like Tybee Island and the Oatland Island Wildlife Center, tourists can sunbathe on the beach, frolic in the ocean and encounter native wildlife species.

19. Philadelphia [SEE MAP]

Often regarded as the “Birthplace of America,” Philadelphia is known as the city in which the country’s founding fathers signed the 1776 Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. Commonly referred to by locals as “Philly,” Philadelphia is major US city in southeastern Pennsylvania and home to the iconic Liberty Bell and the Philly cheesesteak sandwich.

While Philadelphia is a modern city with a busy downtown of high office towers and a number of ethnic districts, it is the city’s colonial architecture and historic attractions that draw most tourists. One of the most visited sites is Independence Historic National Park, a concentration of important buildings and landmarks that include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and Constitution Hall.

Other places of interest include the former homes of Betsy Ross and Edgar Allan Poe as well as the 300-year old Christ Church where George Washington and Benjamin Franklin once worshiped. Reputed to be haunted, the old Eastern State Penitentiary presents intriguing tours. The residential districts of Society Hill and Germantown are popular places to see the city’s colonial homes and architecture.

There’s a host of interesting art museums to visit in the city, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which is not only one of the largest in the world, but also famous for its long flight of steps which were featured in the 1976 film “Rocky”. Now that’s a claim to fame.

18. Sedona [SEE MAP]

Next to the Grand Canyon, Sedona is one of Arizona’s most sought after destinations . Located in the north-central part of the state, the town of Sedona is known for its vibrant art scene and spiritual retreats. However, Sedona’s most popular attraction is the breathtaking array of red sandstone formations that create a striking red and orange backdrop to the town. What’s more, this natural wonder also provides a wide variety of outdoor recreation as well as spiritual experiences for many.

Attracting artists, photographers, spiritual seekers and outdoor lovers alike, Sedona’s brilliant landscape offers much to see and do. Incredible natural landmarks like Coffeepot, Cathedral Rock, Thunder Mountain and Chimney Rock present excellent photograph and artistic opportunities. For an interesting slice of architecture, head to the Chapel of the Holy Cross; dating back to the 1950s, this Catholic church is actually built into one of the iconic buttes.

Sedona itself is a beautiful town, teeming in scores of golf courses, art galleries, gourmet restaurants and numerous boutiques specializing in everything from Native American arts and crafts to New Age healing crystals and alternative medicines.

17. San Diego [SEE MAP]

Centered around a natural harbor, the coastal Californian city of San Diego is located on the border with Mexico . It’s rich in Mexican culture, outstanding family attractions and blessed with a year-round mild climate. As you’d expect, the city is a popular tourist destination.

See also: Where to Stay in San Diego

San Diego was established as California’s first Spanish mission in 1769, and visitors today can see some of the city’s preserved buildings in the Old Town historic district. The modern downtown pulses with shopping, dining and entertainment as well as points of interests like the San Diego Maritime Museum, which houses a collection of sailing ships including the world’s oldest active one, the Star of India. Other museums display the city’s natural history, art and relationship with the US Navy.

The most popular attraction in San Diego is America’s premier zoo, which is located in Balboa Park with flowering gardens and Spanish architecture. The city is home to other family attractions like SeaWorld San Diego and the Birch Aquarium. Another tourist magnet, San Diego’s stunning coastline, offers miles of fantastic beaches featuring an array of fun activities like surfing, sailing, whale-watching and seal-spotting. Some of the most popular beaches like La Jolla, Mission and Pacific Beaches have restaurants and shops, while Point Loma and Ocean Beach offer a more quiet setting.

16. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

Covering a massive expanse of mountainous land in Alaska , Denali National Park is the third largest national park in the United States. Home to Mt. McKinley, North America’s highest peak, this US national park is located in the Alaska Interior among the jagged mountains of the Alaska Range. The word “Denali” means “the high one” in the native Athabaskan language and refers to Mount McKinley. Scores of people come to Denali National Park every year to spot amazing wildlife, engage in a number of outdoor activities and awe over the breathtaking landscapes of majestic mountains, glaciers, rivers, lakes and tundras.

The park is enormous, and vast portions of it are only accessible by foot or dog sled. One single road, the Denali Park Road, winds several miles through the core of the park, connecting travelers to visitor centers, hiking trails and look-out points for wildlife and stunning panoramic views. Only the first few miles of the road are open to private vehicles. To go beyond, visitors must take park shuttle buses or arranged bus tours, of which many are narrated and informative.

Some of the amazing sights to see and photograph in the park include the magnificent Mt. McKinley, picturesque rivers and lakes like Savage River and Wonder Lake as well as outstanding wildlife species like grizzly bears, caribou and wolves. The park also presents thrilling outdoor activities and adventures like hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting and sled dog demonstrations.

Just outside of the Denali National Park entrance, visitors will find a number of hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars and souvenir shops, while within the park is a mercantile store selling camping supplies, groceries and other necessities.

15. New Orleans [SEE MAP]

Regarded as one of the most unique cities in the USA, New Orleans is widely known for its distinctive French Creole culture, cuisine, and architecture as well as jazz music and the annual Mardi Gras celebration. Situated in southeastern Louisiana , New Orleans is the state’s largest city and a major US seaport. Devastated by heavy flooding from Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans is now mostly recovered and remains one of the country’s top travel destinations.

Rich in history and diverse cultures, New Orleans is one of the oldest cities in the USA. The city’s historic architecture is one of its main draws, which is best seen in the popular French Quarter with its iron balconies and notable places like the French Market, St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square and the exhilarating Bourbon Street. Charming old neighborhoods also reflect the city’s roots with antebellum mansions and Creole cottages. Even the city’s historic cemeteries attract many with their elegant tombs, voodoo mystique and ghost tours.

Riverboat cruises, carriage rides and streetcars offer romantic and exciting ways to experience the splendor of New Orleans. Outside the bustling city, the moss-draped countryside and protected nature areas offer unforgettable experiences like boat rides through the swamps and tours of plantations and Civil War battlefields.

While New Orleans draws its biggest crowds during its famous Mardi Gras celebration, the city is known to always have a party going on at any time of the year with its plethora of bars, nightclubs and jazz clubs.

14. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

The world-famous Niagara Falls straddle Ontario in Canada and the American state of New York. Although it is often called the “Honeymoon Capital of the World,” Niagara Falls in recent years has also developed as a popular destination for family and adventure vacations. The magnificent beauty and enormous volume of Niagara Falls attracts millions every year from all over the world.

Located on the Niagara River, the falls are a culmination of the flow of water that gushes out of the Upper Great Lakes and are actually made up of three falls – Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. Six million cubic feet of water cascades over the ridge every second, making for an incredibly impressive site.

One of the best places to view the Niagara Falls on the Ontario side is from Queen Victoria Park where the Falls are illuminated and fireworks are displayed nightly during the summer.

There are several ways to experience Niagara Falls. One of the most popular is the Maid of the Mist boat tour that brings visitors close enough to feel the spray from the plunging cascades. Visitors can also walk along a boardwalk beside the rapids or enjoy a cable car ride overhead. For the adventurous, there are also jet boat and helicopter tours available.

13. Boston [SEE MAP]

One of the oldest cities in the USA, Boston is best known for its wealth of American history, architecture and academic institutions. The capital and largest city in Massachusetts as well as the largest city in the New England region, Boston is spectacular sight in spring and autumn with flowering trees and fall foliage.

As the setting of many historic events that led up to the American Revolution, including the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party, Boston is steeped in early American history. The city retains many historical landmarks from this time period such as Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church, which sports the steeple that was used to signal a warning to the American patriots of the approaching British soldiers. Once the scene of the Boston Tea Party event, the Boston Harbor today is known for its lighthouses and festivals.

Just outside of Boston in the Cambridge neighborhood is the country’s oldest and most prestigious institute of higher learning, Harvard University. The city is also home to America’s oldest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, the country’s oldest public park as well as the famous pub from the television series, “Cheers.” The Charles River Esplanade and the Boston Harbor Islands State Park offer beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor recreation.

12. Miami [SEE MAP]

One of the most vivacious cities in the USA, Miami is best known for its Latin culture and sizzling nightlife. Located in southeastern Florida off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Miami is also a major port city managing the world’s largest number of passenger cruise ships. Attracting tourists from all over the planet, Miami is a melting pot of ethnic cultures with a wide array of exciting attractions and activities .

One of Miami’s main draws is its sunny beaches that range from family resorts to party scenes and offer everything from water sports to shopping and entertainment. Across the bay from Miami on a barrier island is Miami Beach, known for its Art Deco architecture and glamorous South Beach. A visit to the beautiful Vizcaya Estate provides a glimpse into South Florida’s early 20th century history.

A must-do is visit the Everglades National Park to see one of the country’s most unique ecosystems that consists of swamps, sub-tropical jungles and flooded wetlands that are home to crocodiles, manatees and Florida panthers. A great way to experience the Everglades is by an airboat ride.

See also: Where to Stay in Miami

11. Seattle [SEE MAP]

Home to global giants like Boeing, Starbucks and Amazon, Seattle is the largest city of the USA’s Pacific Northwest region. Seattle is a coastal seaport city nicknamed the Emerald City due to its lush scenery resulting from a rainy climate. The skyline of Seattle is a thicket of towering skyscrapers. The crowning glory is the futuristic 605-foot (184-meter) tall Space Needle, built in 1962.

The city is known for its music scene – it gave the world Nirvana and other grunge bands like Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. You can read up on this – and more – at the city’s Museum of Pop Culture. It’s also famous for seafood, which you can try at the historic Pike Place Market. What’s more: the surrounding pine forests make for perfect hiking.

To learn about the city’s history, Pioneer Square and the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park offer historical buildings and artifacts. The Woodland Park Zoo and the Seattle Aquarium are outstanding places to encounter land and marine animals. At the Boeing Factory, tourists can watch airplanes being built. Urban parks and nature sanctuaries like Discovery Park and Green Lake offer hiking trails, outdoor adventure and wildlife. With close proximity to the mountains and ocean, Seattle tourists can enjoy hiking, skiing, sailing and kayaking.

10. Hawaii [SEE MAP]

Renowned around the world for its breathtaking beauty, Hawaii lies far off the coast of California in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Made up of 137 islands, the volcanic archipelago has long attracted tourists to its shores due to its stunning landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Hawaii really does boast a plethora of natural wonders. The rugged NaPali Coast, plunging Waimea Canyon, and idyllic Waikiki Beach count among its most famous sights. Due to all the magnificent scenery, it’s worth spending as much time as possible outdoors, either hiking among the volcanoes, surfing the surrounding waves, or snorkeling above its colorful coral reefs.

As it was the last state to join the US in 1959, the islands still retain much of their unique Hawaiian identity. Visitors can immerse themselves in Hawaii’s rich culture and heritage while staying at any one of the luxury resorts that dot the archipelago. Of its many islands, Oahu, Maui, and Kauai are the most popular due to their natural beauty and abundance of tourist attractions.

9. Orlando [SEE MAP]

Home to world famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando is no doubt a favorite destination for family vacations. Located in central Florida, Orlando is a place where dreams and magic become reality. With several amusement parks, visitors to Orlando can meet their favorite storybook characters, reenact live famous movie scenes, ride thrilling roller coasters and watch dolphins and whales performing marvelous tricks.

However, there is much more to Orlando than just the theme parks. The downtown area features pedestrian streets lined with shops, restaurants, bars and comedy clubs. Botanic gardens and conservation parks showcase Florida’s amazing flora and fauna from orchids to alligators. What’s more, Orlando and its surrounding area is a paradise for sports lovers. Lakes and streams teeming in trophy fish are a sport fishing paradise, and golfers will be spoiled for choice among the numerous golf clubs and courses.

8. Washington DC [SEE MAP]

The capital of the United States and seat of the federal government, Washington is a city located on the country’s East Coast in the District of Columbia. A cosmopolitan city that is home to many diverse cultures, Washington is widely known by its many iconic landmarks like the White House, Capitol Building, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. Many of these monuments, along with others like the Vietnam War Memorial and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, are all located within the beautifully landscaped parkland known as the National Mall, one of the city’s most visited sites.

Washington boasts a large number of important museums, many of which are comprised within the Smithsonian Institute, the world’s largest research and museum compound. The National Zoo, historic churches and the colonial architecture of the Georgetown neighborhood are other popular things to see while visiting Washington. A good way to experience the main attractions of Washington is to take the hop-on hop-off trolley. A popular day trip from Washington is an excursion to the nearby Civil War battlefield of Gettysburg.

7. Los Angeles [SEE MAP]

The second-largest city in the USA, Los Angeles is located in southern California surrounded by the Pacific Coast, mountains and valleys. Often regarded as the “Entertainment Capital of the World”, LA is awash with celebrity culture. You can see the handprints of film stars on Hollywood Boulevard or go on a tour to see stars’ homes in Beverly Hills.

See also: Where to Stay in Los Angeles

For laid back days there’s the bohemian neighborhood of Venice Beach, home to Muscle Beach and a rambling promenade that doubles as a stage for all sorts of quirky street performers. The seafront city of Santa Moncia also offers a more relaxed pace of life with its old pier and aquarium. LA is also home to the world’s first Disneyland – great news if you’re traveling with children!

Some of the city’s most popular attractions include the Getty Center, regarded as America’s finest art museum, the Kodak Theater, host of the Academy Awards, and Universal Studios Hollywood. The Grove Farmer’s Market is a pedestrian paradise of shopping and entertainment, while Griffith Park and Knott’s Berry Farm are both fantastic family attractions.

6. Chicago [SEE MAP]

Nicknamed the “Windy City” and best known for its towering skyscrapers, sports teams and unique style of hot dogs and pizzas, Chicago is the third-largest city in the USA. Located on Lake Michigan in the heart of the Midwest region in northeastern Illinois , Chicago is a major hub for finance, industry, and commerce. The city’s numerous sites range from the futuristic Millennium Park and the iconic Sears Tower to the Navy Pier with its parks, restaurants, and amusements. Numerous genres of music such as Jazz, Blues, and House music have roots in the live music venues around Chicago.

Chicago is a huge city with many ethnic neighborhoods and a buzzing downtown district that is quite walkable. A stroll downtown offers views of impressive skyscrapers, upscale malls, quaint shops, restaurants, bakeries and numerous hot dog stands selling the city’s distinctive beef frankfurter served on a poppy-seed bun with pickle relish, tomatoes, onion and yellow mustard.

Rich in American history, Chicago has many historic sites including Old St. Patrick’s Church, one of the buildings that survived the city’s Great Fire of 1871. Another historic site, the Cadillac Palace Theater, is worth a visit just for its exquisite interior. First opened in 1926, the theater still presents Broadway shows today.

Home to several major attractions, Grant Park is a huge, sprawling public park with beautiful gardens and recreational facilities as well as Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world.

5. Yellowstone [SEE MAP]

Yellowstone National Park was the world’s first national park, set aside in 1872 to preserve the vast number of geysers, hot springs, and other thermal areas, as well as to protect the incredible wildlife and rugged beauty of the area. Yellowstone lies on top of a gigantic hotspot where light, hot, molten mantle rock rises towards the surface. Subsequently, the park contains half of all the world’s known geothermal features, with more than 10,000 examples of geysers and hot springs.

The most famous geyser in the park is Old Faithful Geyser. It is one of the most predictable geographical features on earth erupting almost every 91 minutes. The largest hot spring in Yellowstone and the third largest in the world is the Grand Prismatic Spring. The vivid colors in the spring are the result of pigmented bacteria that grow around the edges of the mineral-rich water. The bacteria produce colors ranging from green to red. The center of the pool is sterile due to extreme heat.

In addition to all the geothermal features Yellowstone is also home to one of the finest megafauna wildlife habitats in North America. Black bears, grizzly bears, deer, elk, bison and wolves can all be found within the park borders.

4. Las Vegas [SEE MAP]

You wouldn’t think a city in the middle of the desert in Nevada would be as popular as it is, but it’s thanks to the cavalcade of casinos here that Las Vegas is so famous. The most well-known casinos themselves are practically household names: Caesar’s Palace, MGM Grand, the Bellagio. In addition to gambling, show girls and lavish performances, Las Vegas offers plenty more to suit people of all ages and interests. On the main street called the Strip, there are the Bellagio’s impressive fountain shows, a replica of the Eiffel Tower and of an Egyptian pyramid, among other landmarks.

Golfers will be happy to know there are more than 55 golf courses in and around Las Vegas. Just outside the city are state parks offering rock climbing and hiking trails. Also nearby is Lake Mead, which provides a variety of water sports.

See also: Where to Stay in Las Vegas

3. San Francisco [SEE MAP]

Set on the tip of a peninsula, San Francisco is a beautiful city in northern California that is famous for a lot (and we really mean a lot) of things. Undoubtedly, the Golden Gate Bridge is the city’s number one attraction . Tourists can drive, bike ride or walk across this famous suspension bridge to admire and photograph stunning views. Another of the city’s most prominent landmarks are its historic cable cars, which present a memorable way to experience the steep inclines and main tourist attractions.

See also: Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco is a city rich in history and culture known for its lovely Victorian homes and ethnic neighborhoods, of which Chinatown is the most famous with its colorful array of shops and markets. A popular waterfront district lined with souvenir shops and seafood restaurants, Fisherman’s Wharf is where tourists can take a ferry to Alcatraz Island to tour the notorious prison.

2. Grand Canyon [SEE MAP]

Attracting millions of visitors every year, the Grand Canyon is one of the great tourist attractions in the United States . Located in northern Arizona, this massive natural wonder was carved by the Colorado River over a period of several million years and now measures 277 miles (446 km) long, over a mile (1.6 km) deep and up to 18 miles (29 km) wide. It is not the deepest or the longest canyon in the world but the overwhelming size and colorful landscape offers visitor vistas that are hard to match.

Managed and protected by the Grand Canyon National Park , the Grand Canyon is contained within the national park as well as within the Hualapai and Havasupai Indian Reservations. Awe-inspiring landscapes, wildlife viewing, historic sites and adventurous activities are just a few of the reasons that make the Grand Canyon one of the world’s most famous natural wonders.

The Canyon is divided by two main sections, the popular South Rim and the remote North Rim. As the most accessible part for tourists, the South Rim features many historic sites such as the El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Railway Depot and the Desert View Watchtower. Also in the South Rim is the Grand Canyon Village where many tourists can find ample lodging.

There are numerous well-marked trails to try out, including the South Kaibab Trail. If you want a really long hike, go for the Rim-to-Rim Trail but don’t forget to pack plenty of water, this is an unrelenting desert climate, after all.

One of the most popular attractions in the Canyon is Havasu Falls, a spectacular waterfall that plummets 120 feet (37 meters) into a natural swimming pool of turquoise water. Other sights and experiences opportunities in the Canyon include whitewater rafting, jeep tours, helicopter rides and the Skywalk, a glass sightseeing structure extending 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) over the rim of the Grand Canyon.

1. New York City [SEE MAP]

The jewel in the crown of the USA when it comes to urban areas, New York is a megacity that is absolutely packed full of iconic places, areas, and buildings. World renowned for its concentration of skyscrapers and famous attractions , New York City is what many foreigners often visualize when they think of the USA. In fact, sometimes it feels like you’re walking through familiar territory, thanks to how often the city features in Hollywood films.

Even the “Five Boroughs” that make up NYC are famous (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island). Then there’s the culture: Koreatown, multiple Chinatowns, the remnants of Little Italy, and communities from Jewish to African American make New York a true world city made rich by the people who’ve flocked here from all over the world.

Some of New York’s most notable landmarks that can be toured include the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller Center. One of the city’s most important historical sites is Ellis Island, where millions of immigrants first arrived in America.

New York is also home to some of the most distinguished museums and art galleries in the world such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum and the American Museum of Natural History. Additionally, Manhattan’s Theater District is world known with its collection of Broadway theaters and other entertainment venues. Throbbing with flashing neon lights and glittering billboards, Times Square is the city’s dazzling entertainment district where tourists can catch a Broadway performance and shop for souvenirs.

For those who need to catch their breath from all the hustle and bustle of New York City, Central Park is the answer with its wide open green spaces, gardens, wooded paths and outdoor recreation.

Map of the USA

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Reader interactions.

June 1, 2017 at 7:02 am

Now I just want to go to visit New York City

May 12, 2017 at 9:05 pm

@Lindy… how dare u downplay Atlanta and include a NO NAME place such as Lynchburg??? GOH.

February 7, 2017 at 9:34 am

By all means, visit Lexington, KY. Come during the Keeneland spring or summer meets. You’ve never visited a more economical and beautiful racetrack. Lots of hotels in all price ranges. Visit a horse farm. Visit multiple distilleries on the Bourbon Trail. Don’t miss the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, right downtown; tours are economical and high quality. Ride out through the horse farms. Take a daytrip to lovely little Midway for shops and independently owned restaurants.

January 25, 2017 at 1:44 pm

It really depends on what you are looking for but Santa Fe NM, Tuscon AZ and Austin TX are great places to visit. And how did Savannah get picked over Charleston SC? Almost any American would pick Charleston over Savannah. A couple of these places baffle me as to how they made this list. Atlanta? Denver? Denver is just a place to fly into to go somewhere else. Lynchburg VA and Lexington KY are beautiful, fun places, to name a few. I have been to 47 of the 50 states. I am very confident in my comment.

January 3, 2017 at 12:52 pm

I think one of the most interesting cities in America is Memphis, TN. From Rendezvous Ribs to Beale Street and BB King, to the Peabody hotel and on to Elvis’s Grace Land, there is more to do in this city than most people realize.

February 24, 2016 at 6:14 am

@Rigo, She didn’t mention Orlando? Keep your bias to yourself, she said New Orleans. There’s also a lot of stuff in Orlando you won’t get in LA. Less traffic, cleaner air, generally people are not as rude, hotter, Disney in Orlando may not be the ‘original’ but is far far superior to Disney in Cali as is Universal.

November 20, 2014 at 10:21 pm

Don’t worry Jess you can visit Disneyland(the original), California Adventure(across from Disneyland, and part of it), Universal Studios Hollywood(also original) and even the original six flags magic mountain while in Los Angeles, even San Diego its just an hour and a half drive from Los Angeles you can’t get all that in Orlando. Las Vegas is a short 4hrs drive through the Mojave desert rent a car it might be cheaper and on the way there you can stop at calico ghost town. Good luck and welcome to California enjoy your stay 😉

November 13, 2014 at 4:55 am

I totally agree with this list! Can’t believe I’ll be going to four cities in this list in about a year. Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco and New York City. Flying all the way from Malaysia. Feelin’ so blessed, but I’ll have to wait for the visa exemption first. Thinking of going to New Orleans if possible, but I’m short of cash. I’ve only got enough for the four cities; tough luck for me.

May 20, 2014 at 7:52 am

i loved all these pictures, especially from Orlando

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More From Forbes

The 22 best places to travel in the u.s. in 2022.

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What’s on your travel list for 2022? For the past two years, with many borders closed around the globe, Americans have been rediscovering destinations in our own backyard. As a result, domestic travel has never been stronger—or more exciting. According to recent data from Destination Analysts , 87.2% of Americans are planning a vacation in the next 12 months. “While the road to full recovery may be longer than we would like, we are already looking far beyond the pandemic to a brighter, more globally competitive, sustainable, diverse and innovative future for the whole of the U.S. travel industry,” says Tori Emerson Barnes , executive vice president of public affairs and policy for the U.S. Travel Association.

Note: This story is from 2022. To read about the best places to travel right now, see “The Best Places To Travel In The U.S. In 2023, According To The Experts”

Every year, I round up the best places to visit in the U.S. and around the world. This year, in honor of Women’s History Month in March, I tapped into leading women travel experts and influencers to find out the best places to travel in America in 2022. I also opened my own little black book to give a sneak peek at the destinations that I’m most excited about. The picks are vast, from buzzing cities to mountain getaways to some up-and-coming locations that you might not know—but that you’ll want to put on your own travel wish list.

Timbers Kauai at Hokuala on Kauai, one of the top places to go in 2022.

For those of you who want to explore beyond the U.S., check out “The 22 Best Places To Travel Around The World In 2022,” where travel experts select the year’s most compelling destinations, from Europe to Africa and beyond.

And a note: Travel in the U.S. is still in a state of flux. So if you’re planning a trip anywhere these days, you should check travel restrictions for the destination you are hoping to visit and consider warnings from the CDC .

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Biking in Alaska—one of the best places to travel in the U.S. in 2022.

Where: Alaska

Chosen By: Laura Cole, Top Chef season 15 alum, three-time nominee for a James Beard Best Chef Northwest award and owner of 229 Parks in Denali National Park.

Why: Alaska has always been popular as a cruising destination, but 2022 is the year to get out and explore on land. “Travel throughout the state is allowing people like myself to explore Alaska through the lens of both adventure and food, enjoying fishing, farming and foraging,” says Cole.

Luxury lodges with new year-round experiences include Tordrillo Mountain Lodge on Judd Lake, Eagle’s Nest by Third Edge Heli overlooking the Knik Arm in Wasilla and Sheldon Chalet in Denali National Park, as well as luxury tour operators like Pelorus offering experiences to see rare wildlife and wonderful landscapes in remote Alaska.

“I highly recommend visiting Sheldon Chalet in 2022 as they now offer ice cavern exploration in Denali National Park and you can see the aurora from the comfort of your bed from September through April,” says Cole. “It is a truly unique and life-altering place that connects the awe and scope of Denali and the extreme of the range; fosters a connection to natural splendor, engineering and architecture; and allows visitors to indulge through food, wine, hospitality and Alaska history.”

In other exciting Alaska news: This May will see the release of Sanctity of Space , a new movie that will share the adventures of alpinists Renan Ozturk and Freddie Wilkinson as they explore the Moose’s Tooth and the history and wonders of Denali National Park, giving a great perspective on the last frontier.

Mia Herman in Los Olivos, a town in the Santa Ynez Valley—one of the best places to travel in 2022.

Where to Go: Santa Ynez Valley, California

Chosen By: A self-described “California girl making her way around the world,” Mia Herman is a writer, traveler, eater, drinker and part-time flight attendant. Follow along on her journey at @travelwithmia or travelwithmia.com .

Why : Made famous by the movie Sideways , the Santa Ynez Valley is the buzzing wine region for 2022. It’s best known for the Danish-themed village of Solvang, but there are also plenty of other small towns connected by rural roads, sprawling farms and vineyards—all just two hours north of Los Angeles. “The Santa Ynez Valley feels like classic California wine country, but with a more laid-back, approachable vibe,” says Herman. “It’s less crowded than the other wine regions and still feels like an undiscovered secret, making it the perfect go-to for new wine enthusiasts and devoted wine lovers alike.”

Besides the wine, the food here is spectacular. “Many chefs moved to the area in recent years, and this influx of diverse artistry coupled with the chef-inspired local agriculture allows the Santa Ynez Valley to rival any metropolitan city,” says Herman, who calls the smoked brisket sammie at Industrial Eats in Buellton a “don’t miss.” Other essential stops: Casa Dumetz Wines , Babi’s Beer Emporium and (dim)SAMA in Los Alamos, “which is worth the trip in and of itself.”

Where to go when it’s time to put your feet up? “At Hotel Ynez , you’re in the middle of it all (minutes from Solvang), but you’re tucked away in your own little oasis with a rustic outdoor pavilion, fire pits and a private patio with a hammock,” says Herman. Coming soon: The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection , opening this spring in an 1880’s stagecoach stop in Los Olivos. The historic site is being reimagined with a modern farmhouse design set amid acres of old-growth palm trees.

The new Sensei Porcupine Creek in Palm Springs.

Where to Go: Palm Springs, California

Chosen By: Melissa Curtin is a freelance travel and food writer who madly loves California. She is the founder of LaLaScoop.com . Follow her adventures at @lalascoop

Why: Long revered as California’s resort oasis and a hub for arts and design, Greater Palm Springs is the desert hot spot for 2022. “I adore Palm Springs for the peace and quiet, the nonstop fun you can easily seek out and the perpetual sunshine,” says Curtin. “Palm Springs feels like a small community, but has the culture and vibrancy of a large city. There is always something new to discover.”

In 2022, Greater Palm Springs will welcome a number of new hotels and resorts. “I’m super excited about several new properties coming to the desert this year like the 14-room Azure Sky and Hotel ZOSO ’s revamped design and refresh, with a new food and beverage program.” Also on the horizon: Sensei Porcupine Creek , Hermann Bungalows and The Paloma Resort, each offering their own unique vibes, from ultra-luxe to wellness-minded.

From Coachella to the BNP Paribas Open, world-renowned events are also coming back on the scene and better than ever. “ Modernism Week has expanded to offer more special programming and exclusive tours and events by extending dates to other months like May 12-15 this year,” says Curtin. “Plus, a new Modernism Museum highlighting the best of the modernist era from the 50s to the early 70s is coming soon as an inspirational modernist hub.”

Additionally, in late 2022, the new Coachella Valley Arena will open, serving as the future home of the Seattle Kraken’s American Hockey League (AHL), residencies and major concerts. Another exciting arrival: “Soon surfing in the desert will be possible as the Palm Springs Surf Club arrives—designed by surfers for surfers,” says Curtin.

Exploring the peaks of Aspen in ASPENX gear.

Where to Go: Aspen, Colorado

Chosen By: Katie Jackson has somehow made a living as a full-time travel writer since 2015 when an African safari turned into seven years of living out of a suitcase. In between trips, she can be found recuperating in Montana. She shares her adventures, and misadventures, on IG @katietalkstravel .

Why: Aspen has always been on the map but, from a celebratory standpoint, 2022 is special as Aspen Snowmass turns 75 years old. New this year is ASPENX —a performance product line by artist and innovator Paula Crown (the Crown family owns Aspen Snowmass). Visitors can rent ASPENX equipment and partake in its unique experiences like a chef’s table, full-moon tour, stargazing and even a “snow beach bash.”

“What I love about Aspen is it’s a four-season destination,” says Jackson. “I can visit any time of the year and still feel like I’m experiencing the best it has to offer.” While it’s easy to spend your entire time in Aspen browsing in art galleries and boutiques that attract international shoppers, it seems sacrilegious not to take advantage of the area’s world-class outdoor pursuits. In addition to skiing, this alpine escape offers hiking terrain for all abilities and some of the best leaf peeping west of the Mississippi. Cyclists also flock here to pedal up nearby Independence Pass.

“If I could pull an Eloise and move into any hotel it would be The Little Nell ,” says Jackson. “I’ve seen many a minibar and few can top its impressive fridge and cabinet filled with specialty drinks and snacks—all included in the nightly rate.” She also enjoys crashing at the historic Hotel Jerome , where she camps out at J-Bar and people watches. “You never know which celeb will wander in. Of course, no sighting excites me as much as the hotel’s resident Bernese Mountain Dog/mascot named Rocky.”

Another option for accommodations in 2022: a new collection of chalets recently unveiled by onefinestay , where guests receive 24/7 support from a dedicated concierge team that can arrange everything from winter warmers and aprés-ski nibbles to grocery delivery and ski lessons for the children, as well as tailored getaways with adrenaline-pumping experiences such as heli-skiing or dog-sledding in Snowmass.

Taria Pritchett in Wilmington, Delaware, one of the top places to travel in 2022

Where to Go: Wilmington, Delaware

Chosen By: A self-proclaimed foodie from Wilmington, Taria Pritchett is a pasta lover and local influencer. Follow her adventures @wilmdegirl.

Why: “Wilmington has the charm of a big city with local favorites that make people feel at home,” says Pritchett. Hometown to President Joe Biden, Greater Wilmington is known for its many gorgeous public gardens; Nemours Gardens & Mansion resembles Versailles in France.

Wilmington’s Riverfront offers breathtaking views, a riverwalk, many restaurants, new hotels, a contemporary art museum, mini golf, a beer garden and tiki boat cruises along the Christina River. The boat sails past Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park , named to honor Harriet Tubman, who traveled along the Underground Railroad in Wilmington, and a local abolitionist named Thomas Garrett, who assisted her multiple times. The Riverfront buzzes with excitement when Wilmington Blue Rocks baseball season is in full swing.

The city’s food scene has emerged as one of the hottest on the East Coast. Bardea and The House of William & Merry’s chefs have been nominated as “Best Chef'' semifinalists by the James Beard Foundation this year. Bardea Steak is one of the most highly anticipated openings. One bustling spot that offers a trifecta of goodness is Miller Road Station, home to Italian favorite La Pizzeria Metro , Wilmington Brewworks and Sleeping Bird Coffee . Other local favorites that shouldn’t be missed are the comedy lounge House of Laffs ; New Orleans-style dishes and duck-pin bowling at Wilma’s ; flat white coffees at Milk & Honey Coffeehouse ; and a revived French brasserie at Le Cavalier , housed in the historically iconic Hotel DuPont .

Downtown Fort Myers.

Where to Go: Fort Myers & Sanibel Island, Florida

Chosen By: Chloe Caldwell, senior travel writer for UPROXX , social media coordinator @uproxxlife and freelance copywriter. Follow her on Instagram/Twitter: @chloeicaldwell

Why: “Fort Myers totally surprised me,” says Caldwell. “While it may be lesser known than some other Florida hotspots like Miami or Tampa, there’s still so much to see and do. Aside from the endless sunshine, beautiful beaches (make sure to visit Sanibel Island) and fresh seafood, it’s the unique selection of activities that stood out to me.”

In Downtown Fort Myers , history meets the modern era. A hidden gem along the Gulf Coast, the area is best known for the pristine beaches and wildlife found along its barrier islands, the downtown River District and brick-paved streets lined with Art Deco buildings that preserve the city’s history, while a mix of galleries, micro-breweries and local eateries offer endless opportunities for visitors to explore.

"Sports enthusiasts can catch a spring training game at JetBlue Park , beer lovers can hit up the variety of local breweries and history buffs can tour Thomas Edison and Henry Ford's old digs ,” says Caldwell. “There’s truly something for everyone.” This is especially a great year for West Coast travelers to visit the destination, as United Airlines has launched nonstop daily flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). The new service will be running seasonally through May 5, 2022.

Disney World's Cinderella Castle, transformed for the resort's 50th anniversary.

Where to Go: Orlando, Florida

Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom, travel expert and author of this column.

Why: It’s a banner year for Orlando, and big credit goes to Walt Disney World Resort. For the past 50 years, The Most Magical Place On Earth has been enchanting generations of travelers with its special brand of happiness. So Disney World’s 50th anniversary event—dubbed “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” —couldn’t come at a better moment. You’ll find special touches big and small, from 50th anniversary branded Keurig coffee pods in hotel rooms to pop-up parades in the parks to new rides like Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure (a reimagining of Paris inspired by the film) and a Guardians of the Galaxy coaster coming to Epcot this summer.

In the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella Castle has never been more dazzling, thanks to a 50th anniversary refresh that includes gold bunting and other enhancements inspired by the art of Disney legend Mary Blair. Cinderella Castle is also the backdrop for the new “Disney Enchantment” fireworks and lighting projection show (just one of many new shows in honor of the big celebration).

There are also exciting new restaurants, from La Crêperie de Paris in Epcot to Steakhouse 71 , a sophisticated steak spot at the Contemporary Resort (tip: It’s an ideal place to eat, just a short Monorail ride from the Magic Kingdom). On the hotel front, the big news is Star Wars : Galactic Starcruiser , which welcomes guests for immersive, all-inclusive two-night adventures that include secret missions, character bonding and intergalactic cuisine. It’s like being in a galaxy far, far away.

Beyond Disney World, there’s lots of news in Orlando itself, including the world’s first Peppa Pig Theme Park at Legoland, Steinmetz Hall (an acoustically perfect theater at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts), ette Hotel Orlando (a wellness property with culinary experiences in partnership with Michelin-starred chef Akira Back) and Art² (an urban park featuring a two-story shipping container).

The Boca Raton in Florida.

Where to Go: The Palm Beaches, Florida

Chosen By: Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Atlanta-based freelance journalist, editor and author. Follow her on her website or on Instagram: @jenniferbfranklin .

Why: “The Palm Beaches surprised me in the best possible way,” says Franklin. “I’ve had the pleasure of visiting twice in the last year for assignments, once in Palm Beach and once in Boca Raton. Part of the joy of the destination is that each town within The Palm Beaches has its own flavor and personality, and there are plenty of properties that let you tailor your stay however you want. Plus, it’s hard to complain about the tropical weather and seemingly endless miles of beaches to enjoy.”

“If you’re looking for a resort with so much to explore that you’ll never need to venture off-property, it's hard to do better than The Boca Raton (in Boca Raton, naturally),” says Franklin. Originally built by architecture visionary Addison Misner in 1926, the resort now comprises five distinct hotels totaling more than 1,000 rooms. “Now under new management, the upgrades are evident, from restoring the Cloister back to its original coastal white to bringing on new restaurant partners. Speaking of dining, don’t miss Major Food Group’s The Flamingo Grill (Instagram heaven with waiters in pink dinner jackets and dishes such as Caesar salad and bananas foster prepared tableside) and Sadelle’s, of NYC brunch fame,” says Franklin. Spend the day on the wide beach or in a private cabana in the newly renovated Harborside Pool Club, not to mention miles of golf courses and the 50,000-square-foot Spa Palmera, with 44 treatment rooms designed by Colin Cowie.

“To stay in the thick of things on Palm Beach itself, I wholeheartedly recommend White Elephant Palm Beach ,” says Franklin. The new art-filled 13-room, 19-suite Mediterranean revival property was originally the Bradley Park Hotel, built in 1924 but got a top-to-bottom renovation in 2020. “Positioned conveniently downtown, you can be at all of the best Worth Avenue shops in a few minutes. Some of my favorites, aside from every A-list designer you can imagine, include il Sandalo of Capri, Blesk Jewelry and Coastal Girls ,” says Franklin. “The hotel will set you up with chairs, umbrellas and towels at the nearby beach, and they’ll even bring you anything you want from the hotel’s menu—the service is to die for.”

Other things not to miss: Have a drink poolside at Swifty’s delightfully retro (and pink!) The Colony hotel , visit the sprawling 75-room Henry Morrison Flagler Museum for a glimpse at the area’s Gilded Age roots and spring for a meal at HMF (named for Flagler) at The Breakers. “You won’t be disappointed,” says Franklin.

Where to Go: Kauai, Hawaii

Chosen By: A Dallas-based travel blogger, Jasmine Alley is a nature-obsessed wanderer and photographer (she’s a sucker for a great view). See her travel adventures and recommendations at jasminealley.com or @jasminealley .

Why: With Hawaii recently dropping restrictions related to its Safe Travels program, travelers are officially welcomed back to the idyllic island chain, with Kauai rising as a standout destination for those looking for a strong dose of authentic Hawaiian culture while escaping the typical crowds of its sister islands. Affectionately known as “The Garden Island,” much of Kauai is a pristine emerald escape, and according to Alley, it’s “a lush paradise great for both adventure-seekers and those looking to simply relax.”

The breathtaking landscapes—from mountains and canyons to lapping azure beaches—offer something for everyone. “For those Jurassic Park-esque views that Kauai is known for, you’ll want to see the rugged Napali Coast. There are three main ways to see it: a boat tour, helicopter tour (we loved the Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure with Island Helicopters) or hike,” says Alley. “You’ll need to reserve a day pass to hike the Kalalau Trail, located at Haena State Park at the end of the road up north.”

Craving a beach day? Check out Hanalei Bay. “Located on the North Shore, it offers the perfect mix of dramatic mountain views, lush palm trees and gorgeous sand lining the crescent-shaped bay,” says Alley. “Drive a bit further north and you’ll reach Tunnels Beach, a beautiful spot to watch the sunset.”

As for lodgings, Alley recommends staying in a central location like Kapa’a or Lihue. “If you’re looking for luxury, Timbers Kauai at Hokuala is an incredible oceanfront property,” says Alley. “Even if you don’t stay there, their restaurant, Hualani’s , is a must, serving up a fresh menu with local ingredients from their on-site organic farm, Hōkūala. To this day, their Hanalei Bae cocktail is the best cocktail I’ve ever had. And I highly recommend the Banana Lumpia for dessert.”

In terms of culinary offerings, Alley advises both beloved and under-the-radar locales along the north shore: “While in Hanalei, don’t miss out on some great North Shore food spots. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Holey Grail donuts (made from Hawaiian-grown taro root), Wishing Well Shave Ice (their organic, housemade coconut flavor pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top) or Nourish Hanalei (a tiny orange hut that serves acai bowls and smoothies with arguably the best views over Hanalei).”

Twin Falls, Idaho—one of the top places to go in 2022.

Where to Go: Idaho

Chosen By: Emily Mandagie, a Pacific Northwest-based travel writer and photographer behind the site “The Mandagies.” Follow her on Instagram .

Why: This is a big year for Idaho. “It often gets overshadowed by its epic neighbors to the west, but Idaho is very much worth its own adventure, too,” says Mandagie. “From high desert terrain to ancient cedar groves (yes, these exist outside of the Redwoods), to epic backpacking and rafting trips, there’s something for everyone.”

For your own private Idaho, you’ll find more options than ever to get off the grid in secluded mountain settings. Sun Valley Trekking wilderness yurts is an amazing way to get into the backcountry but with luxuries like a wood-fired sauna. If that’s too extreme, the Crystal Peak Lookout is a fire lookout tower stay, accessed via a vintage snowcat (as a small add-on to the Airbnb’s winter price). “For an iconic mountain experience, plan a weekend backpacking trip in the Sawtooth Mountains near Stanley. After 10+ miles on the trail, venture out to one of many natural Idaho hot springs and soak away your sore muscles,” says Mandagie.

Need even more space and privacy? There’s a new option to book an entire ski resort to yourself for a day with Soldier Mountain’s My Mountain package. Speaking of skiing, Schweitzer Mountain Resort (with some of the best powder in the Northwest) has welcomed the modern Humbird Hotel, while independently-owned Tamarack Resort has new snowmaking capabilities and a brand-new spa aimed at helping guests recover from big days on the slopes.

“Looking for warmer weather? Southern Idaho boasts high-desert terrain mixed with roaring waterfalls in every direction,” says Mandagie. “Spend a few days in Twin Falls to explore more than 10 waterfalls right in the vicinity. Shoshone Falls is the most iconic, followed by Perrine Coulee Falls and Pillar Falls, to name a few. The Perrine Memorial Bridge is also a famous spot for base jumping .”

Other developments: Boise has a Basque history and 2022 marks the return of a huge cultural festival, Jaialdi . Outside of the festival, Boise’s Basque scene can be enjoyed at newcomer restaurant Ansots , which is making its own Basque sausages and bacon from family recipes.

A bird's-eye view of Bloomington, Indiana.

Where to Go: Bloomington, Indiana

Why: A must-stop on any Midwest road trip and one of the best small towns in the U.S., this Hoosier city should be on your radar for 2022, thanks to its buzzing cuisine and rich culture.

Turkish, Tibetan, Venezuelan, Burmese, Italian, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, French, Japanese—if you can find it on a globe, you can find that food in Bloomington. Big culinary news includes The Elm , a new restaurant serving up spice profiles from the Mediterranean and North Africa, plus Small Favors Bar , a new farm-to-fork restaurant with a goal to source ingredients from farmers within a 50-mile radius. The city is also home to one of the Midwest’s best Tibetan restaurants, Anyetsang’s Little Tibet (operated by a Tibetan refugee and former monk), and Oliver Winery, Indiana’s largest and oldest winery, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

On the culture front, the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art at Indiana University recently completed a three-year, $30 million renovation that added another permanent gallery to the I.M. Pei-designed museum. Explore the country’s only Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center with self-guided walking tours, meditation classes and a stay in an onsite yurt (no TVs or electronics). Other big news: Bloomington’s first park, Cascades Park, and the historic Buskirk-Chumley Theater both celebrate their 100th anniversary in 2022.

Louisville, Kentucky's downtown skyline on the Ohio River.

Where to Go: Louisville, Kentucky

Chosen By: Kay Kingsman, travel writer and blogger at The Awkward Traveller .

Why: “Picture your favorite getaway destination, now subtract the crowds,” says Kingsman. Louisville has plenty of charm and relaxation along with attractions to please a variety of travelers. “Sports fans will enjoy the Slugger Museum and the Muhammad Ali Center , history buffs can see the meeting spot of Lewis and Clark (and York) and there are tons of unique boutique shops down on Market Street for those who like to shop and support locals,” says Kingsman.

Other essential new stops include The Black Heritage Tour Collection , which celebrates its second year with programming and exhibits showcasing African American contributions to the city’s history and culture, and the new Roots 101 African American Museum , which calls itself a “healing place” where visitors can come and experience art, music, artifacts and education.

Louisville’s real showstopper is the food, especially the mom-and-pop establishments. “Definitely check out Yummy Pollo , The Black Italian , SuperChefs and Mack Bros BBQ —you gotta try the BBQ,” says Kingsman. Other new entries include Ashlee Northington’s Happy Belly Bistro , which started as a food truck, and is now serving her rotating menu of fusion foods as a permanent kiosk inside Ten20 Craft Brewery . The Urban Bourbon Trail added Brough Brothers , the first Black-owned distillery in Kentucky, along with The Craftery , its first DIY bar.

When it comes to places to stay, downtown’s new Grady Hotel has a décor that pays homage to one of the 1883 building’s original tenants, the Swann-Abram Hat Co., designer of world-famous Kentucky Derby hats. After an $80 million renovation, the city’s only waterfront hotel, the Galt House , is open once again and features Swizzle Dinner & Drinks , a revolving restaurant with spectacular Ohio River views. Kingsman is also a fan of the 21c Museum Hotel : “It’s walking distance to the nearest bourbon tasting room.”

The fun doesn't have to stop at the city limit. An hour outside of Louisville is Mammoth Cave National Park , the longest known cave system in the world. Over the past year, the National Park Service has implemented an updated tour reservation system for a more organized visit. “The National Park sometimes sells out weeks in advance, so you can also check out a few of the nearby caves like the American Cave Museum that have same-day tours and have also expanded their cave routes to provide visitors with new experiences,” says Kingsman.

Sunset over Lake Charles.

Where to Go: Lake Charles, Louisiana

Chosen By: Danielle Granger Nava, creator of DanielleNava.com , the Front Porch Series and social media accounts for the Charpentier Historic District in Lake Charles. Follow her on Instagram .

Why: After 18 months of recovery from back-to-back hurricanes, Lake Charles, Louisiana is ready to welcome back visitors and show them what they’ve been missing. Known for its juxtaposition of luxury and the great outdoors, Lake Charles has a blend of cultures, music, cuisine and traditions that make this southwest corner of the state a must-visit when traveling along Interstate 10 between Houston and New Orleans.

The area boasts two side-by-side gaming resorts— L’Auberge Casino Resort and Golden Nugget —each with a wide array of dining selections, entertainment options, lazy rivers with swim-up bars, golf and spa facilities. Along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road , you’ll find alligators, nature’s bounty and gorgeous Gulf beaches.

“If you’re looking for the ultimate Louisiana experience, then do not sleep on Lake Charles. You can start your day spotting the wildlife down in Cameron and then come downtown for amazing food—I highly recommend the boudin quesadillas at Tia Juanitas —and end your night with some music, cocktails and a great sunset view at the casinos,” says Nava. “At some point you might want to consider getting a daiquiri to-go, just to complete the experience.”

The arts community is strong, too, thanks to all the Cajun and Creole influences and cuisine here is an attraction in and of itself, from the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail to the Crying Eagle Brewing Company (complete with a beer garden and an outdoor stage) to jazz brunches with over-the-top Bloody Marys. “The best part about living downtown is being able to walk to all the festivals we have. One day it’s all the free gumbo your stomach can handle and then the next weekend it’s live music at our open-air theater,” says Nava. “It never stops.”

The backside of the entrance sign mounted to a building roofline outside of the MassMOCA art museum ... [+] in North Adams, Massachusetts.

Where to Go: North Adams, Massachusetts

Chosen By: Melissa Klurman —travel expert and contributor at Reader’s Digest , The Points Guy and Travel Awaits .

Why: “I fell in love with this art-infused town in the Berkshires when I first visited MASS MoCA ,” says Klurman. “This contemporary arts center is home to both visual and performing arts and sports massive installations in the roomy former Sprague Electric Company Plant (think an entire building devoted just to wall-size Sol deWitt murals and whole rooms devoted to Jenny Holzer, Louis Bourgeois and James Turrell).” With 28 buildings spread over 16 acres, there’s an enormous amount to see and experience—and eat, too. On the premises are food trucks, an ice cream and coffee shop and a craft brewery. “And after a long pandemic hiatus, 2022 brings the return of the live summer shows that the museum complex is known for,” says Klurman. “First up: Memorial Day’s Solid Sound Festival headlined by Wilco, featuring multiple stages and several days of live music.”

The best spot to stay in North Adams is Porches Inn , a series of mill worker houses transformed into a boutique hotel bed and breakfast. “Each room is cozy and unique—and yes, there are plenty of porches (with views of MASS MoCA) where you can sit and rock, plus there’s a nicely landscaped pool out back,” says Klurman. New for 2022, Porches’s owners have transformed an old Main Street hotel into the hip and affordable Hotel Downstreet, just around the corner from the arts center. It’s scheduled to open its doors in April.

The skyline of Jackson, Mississippi.

Where to Go: Jackson, Mississippi

Chosen By: Kristin Luna, Tennessee-based journalist. Follow her on Camels & Chocolate .

Why: Celebrating 200 years of history, Jackson has earned a reputation for being the “City with Soul.” As this year marks its bicentennial, visitors are making the pilgrimage to this vibrant community to experience its culture, thriving arts scene, annual events and exciting dining destinations. “Jackson is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the South’s universal appeal thanks to being a cultural region that's both approachable and affordable, in addition to being central to the majority of the U.S. population,” says Luna.

From its early beginnings where First American settlements dominated the landscape to its social justice initiatives during the Civil Rights Movement, every street has a story waiting to be revealed. History buffs will find that they’re in their element as they explore the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. “The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, in particular, is a must-visit for those wanting to learn more about Black history from the slave trade up to the present—the majority of Jackson's population is Black, and the city is on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail and the Mississippi Freedom Trail,” says Luna. “Jackson is also a hub for creative entrepreneurs with a burgeoning public arts scene driven by the untapped talent of such visual artists as Reshonda Perryman and Birdcap.”

With an array of yearlong events that reflects Jackson’s past while embracing its future, visitors will gain a better understanding of the people and events that have shaped this city. Exhibitions, such as “A Movement in Every Direction: Legacies of the Great Migration ,” showcases the works of 13 renowned African American artists while examining the deep impact of the Great Migration. Jackson’s public art installations add to the city’s streetscape, giving passersby a reason to pause and appreciate the works before them. And epicureans can tantalize their taste buds at some of the city’s most notable restaurants, including Walker’s Drive-In , Lou’s Full-Serv and the Pig & Pint .

Overlooking the Catskills.

Where to Go: The Catskills, New York

Chosen By: Tyler Wetherall is a journalist, screenwriter, teacher and author.

Why: “The Catskills is stunning. It has waterfalls, forests, and the lot, and that’s why tourists have visited in droves—especially artists—for well over a hundred years,” says Wetherall. “Just try to visit in fall and not feel in awe.” A period of economic decline, however, followed the demise of Borscht Belt-era resorts, leaving main streets across the region boarded up. In a familiar story, the last two decades have seen proactive creative folk buying up properties and transforming them into local business ventures across all four counties ( Ulster , Sullivan , Delaware and Greene )—going into overdrive these last two years, as city dwellers flocked upstate. Now those once-boarded up main streets in towns like Livingston Manor, Kingston and Windham are thriving, dotted with new independent shops, restaurants, breweries and bars, becoming destinations in their own right.

“So much of this change has been driven by people relocating to the Catskills with a vision, as well as the gumption and resources to enact it,” says Wetherall. Just look at the cluster of design-forward hotels that have opened in recent years: Urban Cowboy , Eastwind Hotel & Bar , Hutton Brickyards and and revitalized Glen Falls House , with more to come in 2022 like AutoCamp Catskills ’ newest airstreams, Wylder Windham , luxurious Chatwal Lodge and Wildflower Farms . A collection of new restaurants, breweries and tasting experiences are found at the sweet Seminary Hill Orchard & Cidery , picturesque Hudson House Distillery , Southeast Asian-inspired Good Night , unassuming yet eclectic Hollow and massive TAP New York Craft Beer & Food Festival at Bethel Woods.

The natural beauty, of course, remains—thankfully protected and even more easily accessible with the recently completed Empire State Trail , the ever-evolving fly-fishing scene and updated rail trails like Ashokan . Best of all: You can road trip through the region, hopping from one great town to the next.

Writer Cathy Carroll on the grounds of the Minam River Lodge in Eastern Oregon's Wallowa Mountains.

Where to Go: Central Oregon

Chosen By: Cathy Carroll, Bend-based journalist and managing editor of Statehood Media ’s 1859-Oregon’s Magazine and 1889-Washington’s Magazine . Follow her on Instagram to soak up the best of a broadened horizon (@cathycarroll21).

Why : “Like a mountain man who’s gotten in touch with his feelings, Bend has come of age with trending new microbreweries, hotels, spas and boutiques,” says Carroll. Add in some of America’s best landscapes and this area will make your heart pound year-round. “ Mt. Bachelor is known for its powder wow factor with one of the country’s longest ski seasons,” says Carroll. “In summer, it rolls out a green carpet for hiking, downhill mountain biking, paddling impossibly clear lakes, ziplining and a chairlift ride to one of the best dining experiences at nearly 7,000 feet.”

According to Carroll, that’s just the tip of the (dormant) volcano when it comes to adventures. “Climb or meander amid Smith Rock State Park ’s towering spires. Paddle through Bend on the Deschutes River and hop out on the banks of the Old Mill District to hit the shops, dine and hear national acts at outdoor concerts. Get up close to magnificent raptors at the nationally acclaimed High Desert Museum ,” says Carroll.

Where to stay? “Hop on a snowcat for an idyllic winter’s night at Elk Lake Resort or spend a summer’s day boating and swimming through the reflection of snowcapped mountains,” says Carroll. You can also gather the extended family in a mountain-chic home at Tetherow or Brasada Ranch . “Or soak up vintage camp vibes right in Bend at the new Campfire Hotel ,” says Carroll. “Hang at the fire pit, strum a locally made Breedlove guitar and sip local spirits after a swim or soak in the saltwater pool and hot tub.”

Downtown Houston at nighttime.

Where to Go: Houston, Texas

Chosen By: Mariana Cano is a bilingual lifestyle, travel and parenting blogger at yomariana.com and podcaster at Ciudad H . She was born and raised in Mexico City, has lived in Houston for the past 17 years and travels the world with her family of five. Follow her on Instagram @yomarianablog .

Why: “As one of the most diverse cities in the United States, Houston boasts an exciting mix of cultures, food, art, sport and green space to explore,” says Cano. “The city’s harmonizing diversity is what makes ‘H-town’ truly unique.”

In 2022, foodies from near and far will find paradise in Houston’s vast culinary scene. “The famous culinary show, Top Chef , recently named Houston as one of the top gastronomic cities in the country,” says Cano. “From an intimate Asian dining experience meticulously curated at Hidden Omakase to a majestic food-centric journey through India at Mussafer , or an authentic Oaxaqueñan mole flight at Xochi to a cosmopolitan design escapade with exquisite, reinvented paellas at MAD , Houston transports food lovers to faraway countries with one instantaneous bite.”

For art enthusiasts, Houston’s new Nancy and Rich Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts has created a buzz with its masterful architectural design and one of the world’s largest Latin-American art collections. “ The Menil Collection and Rothko Chapel are also must-visit art destinations,” says Cano. “Compelling social spaces like downtown’s POST , a renovated post office transformed into a multi-use complex, offers Houstonians and visitors a place to co-work, enjoy cultural events, grab a bite from the expansive food hall or listen to live music at the brand-new 713 Music Hall .”

The Virginia Beach boardwalk.

Where to Go: Virginia Beach

Chosen By: Robin Catalano , a travel writer who specializes in coastal and waterfront experiences.

Why: Stretching for 35 miles along the Atlantic coast, Virginia Beach is easygoing and eclectic, with attractions to satisfy travelers of all ages. “Picturesque beaches, outstanding outdoor recreation, growing arts and food scenes—all within a few hours’ flight from most of the United States,” says Catalano.

Pick up the Get Outdoors Pass for discounted admission to whale watching, dolphin kayaking tours, nature preserves and more. Watch 17 sailing teams glide for glory in the Worrell 1000, a 1,000-mile catamaran race that returns to Virginia Beach in May. Or ride the waves in the East Coast Surfing Championship , the world’s longest-running competition, in August.

Back on land, the small yet mighty Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art will host a solo exhibition by renowned sculptor and architect Maya Lin. Meanwhile, the flourishing ViBe Creative District is home to vibrant public art, open studios and shops. In October, nearly 200 artists take over the city’s iconic Boardwalk for the three-day, juried Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show .

In a city with more than 250 restaurants, it’s easy to find a palate-pleasing option. “I’m looking forward to the June debut of Waterman Spirits Distillery, from Waterman’s Surfside Grill , originator of Virginia Beach’s signature drink, the Orange Crush ,” says Catalano. Other new food and drink venues include the Shipyard at 17th Street Craft Brewery and pizza crafter the Mellow Mushroom .

Among the many waterfront hotels, the newly remodeled Sheraton Virginia Beach Oceanfront Hotel offers family- and pet-friendly accommodations mere steps from the sand and sea.

A Walla Walla landscape in Washington state.

Where to Go: Walla Walla, Washington

Why: When you say “Washington State,” people immediately think of Seattle—but that’s not the only place worth visiting. “On the drier, sunnier side of the Cascades is Walla Walla , the town so nice they named it twice,” says Herman. “The perfect mix of rural-chic and classic Americana, Walla Walla is known as the capital of Washington wine country.” Home to more than 120 wineries, Walla Walla has been named “America’s Best Wine Region” two years in a row by the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

This small town is bursting with historical and cultural sites, art galleries, artisan shops and farm-to-table dining that highlights the region’s agricultural roots including the famous Walla Walla Sweet Onion. “One of the best places to eat is TMACS , a pioneer of the culinary renaissance in Walla Walla that’s famous for its locally-inspired dishes,” says Herman. And don’t miss a stop at Walla Walla Bread Company , but be sure to bring your appetite. “The portions are large and the flavors are abundant,” says Herman. “Go for traditional bacon and egg breakfast or opt for one of their incredible pastries made by co-owner and recent Food Network Best Baker in America contestant, Michele Pompei.”

When it comes to accommodations, look no further than Eritage Resort with 10 sleek bungalows. “It’s located amidst rolling vineyards just minutes from downtown, but it feels like you’re worlds away,” says Herman. For something grander, try Yellowhawk . “This rustic, luxury resort sits on 84 acres and features farm-style dining, an array of sparkling wines, a pool with cabanas, waterfalls and lush gardens,” says Herman.

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa.

Where to Go: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Why: The holy grail of astronomy, indoor glamping, a pair of giraffes, Dungeons and Dragons—there’s a lot going on in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

The big news here is Yerkes Observatory—the birthplace of modern astrophysics and home to the world’s largest refracting telescope—which reopens for public tours this year. The 50-acre campus, designed by landscape architect pioneer Frederick Law Olmsted, is also being restored to its original plan as part of the “Olmsted 200” campaign to honor the bicentennial of his birth. “Most people visit Geneva Lake for a vacation, but astronomers know of it as an extraordinary place to work,” says Mary Bergin , whose upcoming book, Small Town Wisconsin: Fun, Surprising and Exceptional Road Trips (Globe Pequot Press), includes Yerkes Observatory.

After a day of seeing stars, check out Grand Geneva Resort & Spa , with award-winning dining, two championship golf courses, indoor and outdoor pools, horseback riding, scooter rentals, hiking trails, a WELL Spa + Salon, state-of-the-art fitness center, award-winning dining and an on-site waterpark at sister resort Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark . Another exciting new place to stay: The Main Street Loft by Keefe Vacation Rental s, an indoor glamping experience.

Other big news in Lake Geneva: For Fans of Dungeons & Dragons, The Dungeon Hobby Shop Museum is now open in the original 1976 home of TSR, the founding company of the famous role-playing game. And at the family-owned Safari Lake Geneva , two giraffes have been added to its animal menagerie.

Shadows at Crested Pool, Upper Geyser Basin.

Where to Go: Wyoming

Why: Yellowstone National Park , the Cowboy State’s unofficial crown jewel, turns 150 years old in 2022. This summer, visitors can be the first to see the new Teepee Village, courtesy of a partnership with several Tribal Nations, which will be at the Roosevelt Arch July to August. In August, Old Faithful will be the site of the Yellowstone Historic Vehicles Display, showcasing all the vehicles people have used to see the park since it was founded in 1872.

Summer is peak season, so book your accommodations ASAP. Yellowstone’s accommodations —some of the most iconic examples of “parkitecture”—include Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins. Neighboring Grand Teton National Park also belongs on every national park bucket list. To visit both parks on the same trip, make Jackson Hole your home base.

“Last July, my dad and I had a blast staying at Snow King Resort in downtown Jackson,” recalls Jackson. “We rode its popular Cowboy Coaster down the mountain—I’ve never seen my 66-year-old father laugh so hard—and I can’t wait to return in August when Snow King debuts its new 9,000-square-foot spa.”

In addition to national parks, Wyoming has Cheyenne —famous for its Frontier Days (July 22-31) which claims to be the largest outdoor rodeo in the world—and Cody , home to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West , which boasts five world-class museums under one roof. In Cody, Jackson recommends staying at the historic Chamberlin Inn . “As a writer, one of my fondest memories is the time I got to spend the night in the Hemingway room—where Ernest Hemingway stayed during his visit to Cody.”

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The top 10 most visited tourist attractions in the USA

T ravel and tourism have make a strong comeback in the US after the pandemic, and the country continues to be one of the top destinations in the world .

According to finance website Insider Monkey, revenue from the travel sector is expected to reach $190 billion this year, while the country’s tourism industry is worth over $1.2 trillion .

The website has compiled a list of top tourist sites in the US , and New York was shown to be home to two of the most visited tourist attractions- Times Square and Central Park .

Here are the places that made it to the top ten list .

Lincoln Park, Chicago, Illinois- 20 million annual visitors

Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s l argest and most attractive green spaces , featuring lush landscapes, gardens, and tree-lined paths. It houses the Lincoln Park Zoo , one of the oldest zoos in the country. It has a wide variety of animals and offers free admission .

Magic Kingdom, Disney World, Florida- 20 million annual visitors

Magic Kingdom offers the classic Disney experience , featuring Cinderella Castle as its centerpiece. The theme park offers a range of well-known attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean , Space Mountain, It’s a Small World , Haunted Mansion, and the Jungle Cruise.

Niagara Falls, New York- 20 million annual visitors

Niagara Falls, New York, is a popular tourist destination primarily because of the natural wonder it hosts: Niagara Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. Viewing the falls is easily accessible from multiple vantage points, including observation decks, walking paths, and boat tours .

Grand Central Terminal, New York City- 21.6 annual visitors

Grand Central Terminal, which opened in 1913, has a rich history and has played a pivotal role in the development of transportation and commerce in New York City. The terminal is an architectural masterpiece known for its Beaux-Arts style, ornate details, and grandeur. The main concourse’s celestial-themed ceiling with a depiction of the zodiac is particularly famous.

Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California- 24 million annual visitors

The park covers more than 1,000 acres and offers a green oasis within the urban environment of San Francisco. Its meadows, gardens, lakes, and tree-lined paths provide an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Golden Gate Park offers views of the surrounding landscape , including that of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge , and the Marin Headlands. These viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities .

Mall of America, Minnesota- 40 million annual visitors

The Mall of America is one of the largest shopping malls in the world , with over 5.6 million square feet of retail space. Its sheer size alone attracts tourists, but that’s not its only draw. Minnesota does not have a sales tax on clothing and shoes , making the Mall of America an appealing shopping destination for both locals and out-of-state visitors.

READ ALSO: What is the origin of Labor Day and why is it celebrated today?

Union Station, Los Angeles, California - 40 million annual visitors

Los Angeles Union Station, opened in 1939, is an example of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture . Its historical significance as a transportation hub and architecture make it a sought-after attraction. The station has a variety of dining options , including restaurants and cafes, where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the station’s ambience. There are also some retail shops offering souvenirs and gifts.

Las Vegas Strip, Nevada- 42 million annual visitors

The Las Vegas Strip is renowned for its world-class entertainment options . Visitors can enjoy a wide range of performances, from legendary musical residencies and Broadway-style productions to magic shows, comedy acts, and concerts featuring top-tier artists. The Strip is also a gambler’s paradise , offering a wide variety of table games, slot machines, poker rooms, and sports betting venues in hotels and casinos .

READ ALSO: What caused the flooding and the mud at Burning Man festival in Nevada?

Central Park, New York- 42 million annual visitors

Central Park is home to numerous recognizable landmarks, including Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo , Strawberry Fields (a tribute to John Lennon), Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Central Park Conservatory Garden. Central Park has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows (including Friends), and literature, further enhancing its recognition and appeal to tourists worldwide .

Times Square, New York- 50 million annual visitors

At number one is Times Square, one of the most iconic locations in the world . Its bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and electronic billboards have made it a symbol of New York City. The Square is famous for its annual New Year’s Eve celebration, including the ball drop . People from around the globe flock to Times Square to ring in the new year, making it a bucket-list destination for many.

StarTribune

Minnesota tourism rebounds: here's where people visited.

Minnesota tourism continued its recovery in 2023 as the industry returned to pre-pandemic levels, according to projections released by the state's tourism agency.

Explore Minnesota tracked about 77 million trips throughout the state in 2019. After a drastic pandemic drop and slow but steady recovery, officials counted about 76.6 million visits in 2022. The numbers represent trips taken by both Minnesotans and out-of-state visitors.

Explore Minnesota projects a 2% increase in the number of trips taken in 2023 over the previous year. The agency's estimates show a modest increase in the number of visitors who traveled to and through central and southern Minnesota during the year and a slight decrease in the number of folks visiting the seven-county metro area and its northwest reaches.

The new study Explore Minnesota commissioned used geolocation data collected from smartphone apps between June 2022 and May 2023 — weeks before Taylor Swift drew tens of thousands to downtown Minneapolis and months before Caitlin Clark fever helped lead the Big Ten women's basketball tournament to sell out for the first time in its history.

"We're really excited," Explore Minnesota Communications and Media Relations Manager Chris Morgan said. "We definitely anticipate and are hopeful to see a year-to-year rise."

The Grand Casino in Mille Lacs County and Gull Lake were the top destinations for visitors to central Minnesota — each accounting for about 1 in 8 trips to the region. And in the metro area, nearly one-third of visitors went to the Mall of America.

The top destination in northeast Minnesota was Duluth and the Canal and Lincoln park areas. In northwest Minnesota, Lake of the Woods and Leech Lake drew the most visitors, while downtown Rochester and Treasure Island Casino were the largest draws in the southern region.

"We want people to not only visit one place in Minnesota but also to see the whole state," Morgan said. "One of our missions is to bring eyes and tourists to all destinations."

While the agency doesn't control when major pop stars or blockbuster sporting events take over the metro, Morgan said Explore Minnesota mostly concerns itself over how to get folks to stay in the state once they're already here.

"We know that events bring tourism," he said. "We want to elongate those stays."

Northeast Minnesota, which includes the North Shore and surrounding areas, saw a drop in traffic of about 6.4%.

Morgan hopes Explore Minnesota's new " Star of the North " campaign will lead to further boosts in tourism across the state and for some of the regions that saw a downturn in travel. The state Legislature set aside $25 million for the effort, which Morgan said is meant to draw tourists to every region in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.

Explore Minnesota also estimates that people of color only account for about 11% of the trips taken in 2023. Black and brown vacationers have long worked to diversify outdoor spaces , regularly citing a lack of comfort in predominantly white and rural regions of the state .

That's why Morgan said the agency's latest ad blitz is looking to make sure it "celebrates all of Minnesota's diversity, cultures and its many heritages and communities."

After all, Morgan said, the more people travel, the more money flows through local economies.

"When we have more visitors, the local businesses benefit, the bigger businesses benefit," Morgan said. "The citizens of Minnesota benefit."

Eder Campuzano is a general assignment reporter for the Star Tribune.

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The 50 best tourist attractions in the u.s..

See which American landmarks are worthy of your bucket list.

(Getty Images) |

From national parks to iconic symbols of freedom and democracy, these popular and highly regarded U.S. tourist attractions cannot be missed.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center: Huntsville, Alabama

Denali National Park and Preserve: Alaska

Grand Canyon National Park: Arizona

Hot Springs National Park: Arkansas

Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco, California

Pikes Peak: Cascade, Colorado

(Courtesy of Mystic Aquarium) |

Mystic Aquarium: Mystic, Connecticut

DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum: Fenwick Island, Delaware

(Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort) |

Walt Disney World Resort: Orlando, Florida

(Courtesy of Coca Cola) |

World of Coca-Cola: Atlanta, Georgia

Road to Hana: Hana, Maui, Hawaii

(Courtesy of Idaho Tourism) |

Kirkham Hot Springs: Lowman, Idaho

Chicago River: Chicago, Illinois

Indianapolis Motor Speedway: Indianapolis, Indiana

The Field of Dreams: Dyersville, Iowa

(Courtesy of Oz Museum) |

Oz Museum: Wamego, Kansas

Kentucky Horse Park: Lexington, Kentucky

French Quarter: New Orleans, Louisiana

Acadia National Park: Bar Harbor, Maine

National Aquarium: Baltimore, Maryland

Freedom Trail: Boston, Massachusetts

Mackinac Island: Michigan

(Courtesy of Mall of America) |

Mall of America: Bloomington, Minnesota

(Courtesy of Elvis Presley Birthplace) |

Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum: Tupelo, Mississippi

Gateway Arch: St. Louis, Missouri

Glacier National Park: West Glacier, Montana

Chimney Rock National Historic Site: Bayard, Nebraska

Las Vegas Strip: Las Vegas, Nevada

Mount Washington Cog Railway: Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Cape May: New Jersey

White Sands National Park: Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico

Statue of Liberty: New York City, New York

Wright Brothers National Memorial: Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: North Dakota

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Cleveland, Ohio

(Courtesy of First Americans Museum) |

First Americans Museum: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Mount Hood: Oregon

Liberty Bell: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Breakers: Newport, Rhode Island

Fort Sumter National Monument: Charleston, South Carolina

Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Keystone, South Dakota

(Courtesy of Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum) |

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Nashville, Tennessee

The Alamo: San Antonio, Texas

Zion National Park: Utah

(Courtesy of Smugglers' Notch Resort) |

Smugglers' Notch Resort: Jeffersonville, Vermont

Colonial Williamsburg: Williamsburg, Virginia

Space Needle: Seattle, Washington

White House and the National Mall: Washington, D.C.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Lambeau Field: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Yellowstone National Park: Wyoming

You might also be interested in:

• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Hiking Trail in Every State
• Vacation Ideas for Every Type of Traveler
• The World's Best Tourist Attractions
• The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

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USA TODAY 10Best

Best small towns in the US, from the coastal to the historic

April 10, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors April 10, 2024

Whether your idea of the perfect getaway is a history lesson, going to the theater, relaxing by the bay, indulging in good food, or shopping 'till you drop, there's a small town for you.

With so many amazing places out there, we went on the hunt for the best small towns in each region and across multiple categories by teaming up with a panel of travel writers to help select nominees. Then, readers voted for the 10 best in each category. Here are the best small towns in the United States for 2024.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

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Best Coastal Small Town: Stuart, Florida

Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with the impressive Roosevelt Bridge to its north, is the under-the-radar town of Stuart. Walk along the St. Lucie River at Flagler Park or Shepard Park, both great spots for picnicking, fishing, or otherwise relaxing. The Stuart Heritage Museum, Road to Victory Military Museum, and restaurant-lined downtown Stuart are all among the local attractions.

Full list of winners: Best Coastal Small Town »

Best Historic Small Town: Ludington, Michigan

Building its economy on the lumber industry, Ludington continued to thrive as a shipping port, both by water and by train. Today, visitors come to explore Ludington's small-town charm, take advantage of its waterfront location for swimming, boating, and more, and shop at its many specialty shops and art galleries.

Explore the town's past at Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Musem.

Full list of winners: Best Historic Small Town »

Best Small College Town: Oxford, Mississippi

Oxford, Mississippi, may not be on your radar, but it should be! Just 90 minutes outside of Memphis, the charming live oak-laden home to "Ole Miss" (the University of Mississippi) holds a classic town square, where you'll find the iconic two-story Square Books anchoring a corner with its wide veranda.

Dining options include James Beard chef-helmed eateries, soul food, and comfort food served at a gas station. The college campus is a mere stroll away from downtown.

Full list of winners: Best Small College Town »

Best Small Town Cultural Scene: Alamosa, Colorado

Located in the heart of Colorado's San Luis Valley, the town of Alamosa offers a unique perspective on the Centennial State that's far removed from its classic Rocky Mountain landscapes.

The location provides access to fantastic public art and the history-focused San Luis Valley Museum, while nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is equipped with some of the tallest dunes in all of North America.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town Cultural Scene »

Best Small Town Food Scene: Lewisburg, West Virginia

There’s a lot to eat in downtown Lewisburg at morning, noon, and night. Grab a sweet treat from Amy’s Market, pick up some baked goods and soups from Corn + Flour, tuck into a steak at Food & Friends, or enjoy brick oven pizza in a relaxed atmosphere at Hill and Holler.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town Food Scene »

Best Small Town in the Midwest: Madison, Indiana

Madison, Indiana, has played a major role in the history of the Midwest since the 19th century, with many local residents assisting passengers with their escape from Kentucky through the Underground Railroad.

Visitors here can experience the full splendor of the surrounding Ohio River, heading west to marvel at waterfalls along Clifty Falls State Park, then setting off for the downtown district to embark on a Rockin' Thunder River Tour.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the Midwest »

Best Small Town in the Northeast: Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania

In southwestern Pennsylvania, Ohiopyle is situated along the meandering Youghiogheny River and draws adventurers of all ages with its rugged charm and variety of natural wonders. Famous for Ohiopyle State Park, this area invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience many diverse activities, including first-rate white-water rafting, rock climbing, wildlife spotting, and incredible waterfall hikes.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the Northeast »

Best Small Town in the South: Starkville, Mississippi

Home to Mississippi State University, Starkville is much more than just a college town. You'll find a thriving arts scene, multiple historic districts, many opportunities for bird-watching, and plenty of great food. Don't miss checking out the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library, a treasure trove of artifacts and correspondence.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the South »

Best Small Town in the West: Seward, Alaska

Known as the gateway to the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park, this port city offers an array of excursions for folks hoping to see glaciers up close, spot orcas and other wildlife, and be immersed in the culture of the Indigenous peoples of the area.

The best part is there are so many ways to do all these things, from going dog sledding to enjoying a tour via kayak, or even visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center to see puffins and sea lions up close.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the West »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more of our Readers' Choice Awards.

Top 5 summer vacation destinations for 2024

Grab your sunscreen and get excited for your upcoming summer adventure in one of these incredible destinations around the u.s..

April 11, 2024

It's that time of the year. You know what we mean: the weather alternates between gray, drizzly skies and sunny yet chilly; you have a burning desire to start making tomato salads, but the tomatoes aren't there yet; and the internet keeps targeting you with swimsuit ads. Yes, you guessed it. Summer travel-planning season is officially here! Not to worry if you haven't started thinking about it yet because we've done the research for you. Read on and discover the most popular summer vacation destinations in the U.S. for 2024:

San Diego boasts a riviera atmosphere and laid-back SoCal charm, including a diversity of neighborhoods and natural surroundings. Take in the seaside beauty at San Diego Bay, enjoy the pristine beaches of La Jolla and the vintage allure of the Gaslamp Quarter. A stroll along the Embarcadero, San Diego’s waterfront social hub, includes everything from shops, grassy parks and restaurants to Navy aircraft carriers that now house museums. For wildlife encounters, the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are internationally known attractions that also add to the city’s family-friendly reputation. Green spaces abound and joining the locals to bask in the lush surroundings of Balboa Park is never a bad idea. While exploring the park’s multiple gardens, don’t forget its top-notch museums, too. The San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air & Space Museum and The San Diego Museum of Art are fascinating and memorable and filled with exhibits that will appeal to a wide range of ages.

Portland, Maine

Portland fits the bill for any traveler who wants a bit of everything in their summer getaway: outdoorsy fun, great food, history and intriguing art. Start by acquainting yourself with the city’s Old Port. With cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings and dozens of boutiques, this riverfront part of town is oozing with New England charm. Positioned at the heart of Old Port and only four blocks from downtown, Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront is ideally located and shows off Portland’s chic, modern side. Venturing outside of the city’s central area, a stop at Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse, is a must. If you’d like another quintessential Maine experience, and you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, then hop on a tour with Lucky Catch Cruises for a hands-on look at lobstering. Continue the seafood experience at Luna Rooftop Bar where the menu selections include fresh-from-the-ocean Maine oysters and other shareable dishes like wagyu sliders, tuna tartare and truffle fries.

If you’re able to get an early start on your summer vacation, head to Boston in June. With area schools typically in session until later in the month, visitors get to enjoy the city’s attractions without the crowds. Of course, the other months have their perks, too. In July, the city hosts Boston Harborfest, one of the biggest Independence Day festivals in the country. The weeklong celebration includes parades, live music, fireworks, Chowderfest and other special events that are mostly free to the public. For travelers who love a great deal and the chance to savor award-winning cuisine, visit in August, when Dine Out Boston offers discounted prix fixe meals at some of the city’s top restaurants. That same month, the August Adventures program grants free admission to several museums and attractions. No matter when you’re in town, the Boston Children’s Museum, the New England Aquarium and the popular-for-all-ages Boston Duck Tours make the city particularly welcoming for families.

Bend, Oregon

Bend is arguably the hottest travel destination in all of Oregon right now. The city sits on the eastern side of the Cascades, putting it squarely in the high desert. The mile-long (1.6-kilometer) Lava River Cave at Newberry National Volcanic Monument is the longest lava tube in Oregon and is accessible to the public. Visitors descend 55 steps into the cave and the tour takes about two hours. Inside the cave can be as cool as 42 F (5 C), even in summer, so bring warm clothes and sturdy shoes to traverse the sharp and potentially slippery rocks. Learn more about the area by visiting Bend’s High Desert Museum. The museum brings regional wildlife, culture, art and natural resources together to promote an understanding of natural and cultural heritage of North America's high desert country. Another local highlight is the dozens of tiny breweries all over town. Stop in for a pint at the Deschutes Brewery, known for being a community gathering place since 1988.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is split up into four sections: the South Rim, the North Rim, the West Rim and the East Rim. The South Rim and the North Rim are operated by the National Park Service, and the West Rim is on Hualapai Indian Tribal Lands. The West Rim, home to the Skywalk and rushing waterfalls, makes for a doable day trip from Las Vegas (some visitors even opt for helicopter tours of the West Rim, which leave from Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas and take only a few hours). The South Rim and the seasonal North Rim work best as overnight trips, but you can’t go wrong exploring any part of the Grand Canyon and its striking rock formations.

Need more inspiration? Discover more incredible summer vacations

It's all included.

Find your ideal all-inclusive stay and have the summer of a lifetime with these unique experiences around the globe.

Awesome Austin

This summer, the party is in Austin. Head to Texas for a long weekend getaway filled with good eats, live music and Instagrammable artwork.

Pet-friendly

Enjoy the dog days of summer (literally) with a road trip through the Deep South.

The 13 summer trips Americans are searching for the most, according to Google Flights

• Google Flights revealed the top searched destinations on its platform for summer 2024.
• The data is based on the most searched travel destinations from US users between June and August.
• Neither New York nor Paris took the top spot.

If you're looking to get away this summer, you may find inspiration from Google Flights' list of the top searched destinations for the summer of 2024.

The list is based on US users' most searched destinations on Google Flights for travel between June 1 and August 31.

The list remained largely consistent from 2023, but Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year. The insights also revealed that searches about travel itineraries and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January 2024.

Here are the top 13 destinations.

13. Barcelona

There's a long list of tourist attractions in Barcelona including renowned museums featuring Picasso and Joan Miró, exploring the Gothic Quarter's architecture. Barcelona is also well known for its iconic nightlife.

Miami is known for its clear beaches and vibrant culture. It's also rated second in US News and World Report's "10 Best Party Cities " in the US.

The travel destination is also a popular site for families, and made the third spot in Google searches for top places to do things with kids, according to Google trend insights from for January 14 to March 14.

11. Los Angeles

Located in Southern California, LA is known for its beaches, Hollywood glamour, Mediterranean climate, and wellness culture. The city has a number of tourist sites, including the iconic Hollywood sign, Universal Studios, and the Getty Center.

If you plan to visit LA, make sure you factor in the cost of transportation — and the time you may spend in traffic .

Athens is rich in history and has a number of tourist attractions. BI has previously suggested visiting the Athens National Garden National Garden, the Acropolis, Panathenaic Stadium, Areopagus Hill, and Mount Lycabettus.

Seattle , often referred to as the Emerald City, is home to major companies like Amazon, Starbucks, and Tableau. Surrounded by water, mountains, and forest, it's also known for classic attractions like the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and its grunge music scene.

8. Las Vegas

Las Vegas is known for its extravagant gambling scene and luxurious hotels . It was also ranked the number one city to party as of August 2023, according to US News and World Report.

It's not just a hot spot for bachelor parties though — according to Google travel insights from January 14 to March 14, it was the number one location people searched in the US for places to go as a couple.

Orlando was the first ranked location for searches that led with the prompt "things to do" with kids, according to Google travel insights from January 14 to March 14. The Florida destination is filled with family-friendly tourist attractions , like Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld.

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, Cancún is a popular vacation destination known for its Caribbean waters, luxurious all-inclusive resorts , and vibrant nightlife. That, and it's often budget-friendly for the experience you're getting.

Cancún moved down from second to sixth place in Google Flights' 2024 destination list. The popular vacation spot was also listed in the top five locations for couples and families searching to get away, according to Google search insights from January 14 to March 14.

5. New York

New York City, also known as the Big Apple or the city that never sleeps, has a seemingly endless list of tourist attractions. It has iconic landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty; world-renowned museums; a vibrant theatre scene; eclectic nightlife; and some of the world's best restaurants.

New York has something for everyone — but it's expensive. Prepare to spend more on everyday items if you visit New York City.

Rome is filled with rich history and architecture that makes it an easy site for tourists to occupy themselves. Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Colosseum are a few of the most popular spots.

If you do visit Rome, make sure you avoid common tourist mistakes and tip the servers.

Tokyo rose from eighth place to third in the last year, according to Google Flights.

The city in Japan has a convenient public transportation system and is relatively affordable. It also includes culturally rich sites like Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, and Sensō-ji Temple .

Paris is known for its authentic culture, charming architecture, and buttery croissants.

If you visit Paris, you'll want to visit some of the famous tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Palace of Versailles. That, and you may want to brush up on your French too.

London maintained its spot as the number one searched tourist destination for summer travel. While living in London can be expensive and cloudy, the city is lively and vibrant during the summer.

Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the thriving theatre scene are just a few of the activities this city has to offer.

• Main content

‘Gorges’ Upstate NY city ranked among best family destinations in US

• Updated: Apr. 12, 2024, 2:21 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 12, 2024, 1:00 p.m.

A dog takes a dip into the water below Ithaca Falls in Ithaca, N.Y. on a hot day in August 2023. Samantha House | [email protected] Samantha House | [email protected]

• Samantha House | [email protected]

Ithaca, N.Y. — Pack your minivan and bag up some car snacks: One of the best destinations for a family trip is in Upstate New York.

Ithaca , a truly “gorges” city on the edge of the Finger Lakes, has been dubbed one of the top 10 family-friendly travel destinations in the United States in a ranking by Yelp . The city was the only place from the Empire State to make the list.

Since 2021, the search for places that are “good for kids” surged 83% on Yelp — showing how important it is for families to find kid-friendly spots, the crowd-sourcing app and business directory said. That interest led Yelp to create a list of top destinations for a family getaway.

There are seemingly endless adventures for everyone, including children, in Ithaca.

Swimmers made the best of diving boards at Enfield Falls in Robert H. Treman State Park in Ithaca, NY when temperatures reached 90 degrees Friday , June 28, 2019. N. Scott Trimble | [email protected]

Best known for boasting over 150 waterfalls within 10 miles and two prestigious colleges, Ithaca is a haven for creative, curious minds.

The area hosts a plethora of museums, restaurants , shops, and attractions — ranging from The Commons , a walkable shopping area where over 100 independently owned stores sell unique food and wares, to the beloved Taughannock Falls , a 215-cascade that hikers will brave any weather to see.

In its roundup, Yelp highlighted some of Ithaca’s most popular spots for families, including Ithaca Falls; the Robert H. Treman State Park; the Cornell Botanic Gardens; and the Museum of the Earth.

Yelp also encouraged visitors to experience Cayuga Lake by renting canoes or paddleboards from Paddle-N-More and enjoy a sweet treat at Purity Ice Cream, a shop that has been scooping homemade ice cream in Ithaca since 1936.

A small scoop of Cookie Dough After Dark at Purity Ice Cream in Ithaca, N.Y. Katrina Tulloch | [email protected] Katrina Tulloch

Stewart Park, which hosts stellar playgrounds and a carousel, and the Ithaca Children’s Garden, a self-described “hands-on-nature anarchy zone,” are also great spots for children to safely run wild.

Here is Yelp’s full list of the top 10 family-friendly travel destinations:

1. Fredericksburg, Texas

2. Napa, California

3. Charlottesville, Virginia

4. Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

5. Breckenridge, Colorado

6. Burlington, Vermont

7. Ithaca, New York

8. Virginia Beach, Virginia

9. San Luis Obispo, California

10. Salem, Oregon

The Museum of the Earth in Ithaca, N.Y. Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard archives

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