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What's the best state for you », u.s. news reveals the 2021-22 best vacations rankings.

Scenic spots, beautiful beaches and national parks dominate new and updated lists.

USN Reveals 21-22 Vacations Rankings

Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Cruise Lines and Best Travel Rewards Programs , today released its annual rankings of the Best Vacation Destinations. The new rankings highlight the World's Best Places to Visit , as well as region-specific lists like the Best Places to Visit in the USA and niche lists like the Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA . In addition to these legacy rankings, new lists include the Best Weekend Getaways in the South , the Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest and the Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA .

"Over the past few years, we've seen an influx of travelers looking to escape to the slow pace of nature, researching destinations like well-known national parks, scenic beaches and small mountain towns. The trend continues this year, especially as tourists continue to adhere to CDC travel guidelines and seek vacation spots with space to spread out," said Christine Smith, senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The U.S. News Best Vacations lists highlight a wide variety of destinations both close to home and abroad, helping tourists find the best spot to match their interests and wallet."

New Zealand's South Island, with its breathtaking mountain views, wide range of extreme sports and stunning golden beaches, takes the top spot on the World's Best Places to Visit . Paris, known for top tourist attractions, legendary cuisine and unique charm, comes in at No. 2. Bora Bora at No. 3, Maui, Hawaii, at No. 4 and Tahiti at No. 5 round out the top five destinations. As more countries reopen to Americans and domestic locales are ready to welcome visitors, the rankings can guide consumers toward planning their next much-anticipated vacation.

Once again, the calming appeal of forests, canyons and mountain ranges lands national parks at the top of the Best Places to Visit in the USA list. Grand Canyon National Park tops the ranking, followed by Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Maui, Hawaii, and Glacier National Park. The unmatched views at each destination provide a quiet escape from the chaos of the home office. The new list of the Best Mountain Towns to Visit in the USA also offers the best of both worlds to travelers looking to hike or bike while still enjoying the comforts of small-town life. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, leads that list, followed by Bar Harbor, Maine, and Telluride, Colorado, rounding out the top three.

For those who wish to stay close to home or just want a quick escape, the lists of the Best Weekend Getaways in the South and the Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest offer spots known for their welcoming locals and ample activities, including Asheville, North Carolina, and Chicago. Adventurers with a bit more time on their hands can explore a spot on the Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA . Bar Harbor, Maine, leads this list, boasting lots of East Coast charm, superb whale watching opportunities and easy access to Acadia National Park.

U.S. News analyzed more than 1,100 destinations using a methodology that combines travelers' opinions, as provided by user votes, with expert and editor analysis. Each destination is scored in 10 categories, from sights, culture and food to nightlife, adventure and romance, offering a comprehensive evaluation of each destination.

U.S. News also announced updated rankings of the best destinations in Europe , Mexico , Canada , the Caribbean , Asia , Africa , Australia and The Pacific and Central and South America . And for those looking for an affordable getaway, U.S. News ranks cheap vacation options in the U.S. and Europe .

2021-22 U.S. News & World Report Best Vacations Rankings

See the full rankings here .

World's Best Places to Visit

• South Island, New Zealand
• Bora Bora, French Polynesia
• Maui, Hawaii
• Tahiti, French Polynesia

Best Places to Visit in the USA

• Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
• Yosemite National Park, California
• Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• Glacier National Park, Montana

Best Historical Cities to Visit in the USA

• Washington, D.C.
• Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
• Philadelphia
• Williamsburg, Virginia

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

• Bar Harbor, Maine
• Telluride, Colorado
• Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
• Sedona, Arizona

Best Places to Visi t in Mexico

• Playa del Carmen

Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

• British Virgin Islands
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• U.S. Virgin Islands
• St. Vincent and The Grenadines

Share your destination's ranking or post about your vacation on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram by tagging @USNewsTravel and using #BestVacations.

Media Contact: Sarah Javors, [email protected] , 202-955-2153

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower citizens, consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

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

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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.

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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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The top 12 places to visit in the USA in 2024

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

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

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

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

1. New York, New York

Best place for art and architecture

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

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

2. San Francisco, CA

Best for counter-culture

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

3. National Mall in Washington, DC

Best for national history

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

4. New England

Best for forest drives

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

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Best for West Coast exploration

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

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

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for foodies and art lovers

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

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

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for Indigenous history and culture

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

8. Chicago, Illinois

Best metropolis for midwestern charm

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

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Best for big peaks and winter sports

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

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

10. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina and Virginia

Best for east coast mountains

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

11. The Everglades, Florida

Best for wildlife watchers

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

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

12. Southwestern Utah

Best for geology lovers

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

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

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

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The most beautiful cities in the U.S. to visit right now

The best cities to visit in the U.S. brim with charm, breathtaking architecture and so much to do.

You could spend a lifetime traveling America and not see all that's worth seeing, which makes coming up with the list of best cities in the USA a tough task. Every region is home to its own trip-worthy urban destinations that boast  natural wonders ,   impressive architecture , and  incredibly diverse restaurants.

From coast to coast, we've rounded the cities that top our list of recommendations when plotting out your USA travel bucket list.  New York ,  Los Angeles  and San Francisco are obvious for a reason—they stand as American icons and offer endless must-see attractions. If you're looking for something even sexier, head to  Las Vegas  for gambling and pool parties, or  Miami  for rooftop vibes and beaches packed with some of the fittest people you've ever seen. To experience a taste of the South, there's bustling and historic  New Orleans , filled with a celebration of culture and music every day of the week. At the same time, cities like Nashville offer Southern charm, live music and hearty fare that will make you feel right at home.

Whether you crave nightly live music to keep you dancing, are an art lover looking to explore galleries and museums, or are more interested in eating your way through town, our handpicked selection of the best cities to visit in the USA has you covered.

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Most beautiful cities in the U.S.

1.  Portland, OR

Portland is known for many things: its eccentric culture, its incredibly creative restaurants (that have only gotten more exciting post-pandemic), its theater and arts scene, and its outdoor beauty top the list of reasons to visit. The best things to do in Portland  are long, but some of our favorite activities include eating and more eating. Visit one of the area's best restaurants , opt to experience the zillions of  food trucks , indulge in a gourmet doughnut or stop by a brewery or two . When you want to get moving, hop on a bike to tour the town, hike through one of the many parks or take a stroll through an art museum.

2.  Boston, MA

History and modernity are joined at the hip in Boston, one of America’s first big cities and still one of its best. It’s the place where federal architecture harkens back to the 1600s, juxtaposed with ultra-modern buildings by Frank Gehry, Walter Gropius and I.M. Pei. Speaking of architecture: be sure to see the Back Bay row houses, the usual Instagram fodder that is actually an eye-catching must-see. From chowder to lobster rolls, Boston also loves its seafood, so be sure to visit the city's best raw bars and lobster shacks while you're in town.

3.  San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, a beautiful city built on massive hills and surrounded by water, is a place that marches to the beat of its own drum. Novices are always shocked at how chilly it is here, so pack a heavy sweater at any time of year, and use it while doing the classic tourist activities: riding a cable car, taking a day tour to Alcatraz Island , walking across the Golden Gate Bridge or laughing at the chubby sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf . If you want to branch out and experience the city as a local would, we recommend visiting one of SF's hottest restaurants —from Michelin-starred establishments  to cheap eats —grabbing a drink on a rooftop bar or heading out for a hike in nature . 

4.  Seattle, WA

From its emerald parks to the endless views of Puget Sound, Seattle is the crowning jewel of the Pacific Northwest. You'll see it all from the top of the iconic Space Needle—a 360-degree rotating atrium with a glass floor—but don't stop there. Seattle is full of incredible restaurants and world-class museums like the Seattle Art Museum and the Museum of Pop Culture . It's also the home of famed glass artist Dale Chihuly's Garden and Glass . And while the grunge era that put the city on the map is long gone, there are still plenty of excellent music venues to check out including Neumos and the Showbox .

5.  Charleston, SC

Charleston is truly one of America’s great metropolises, steeped in the history of the nation while boasting a thoroughly modern attitude toward the arts, culture and cuisine—you just need one quick glance at our list of the best Charleston restaurants to see that. Since around 1670, the architecture—and particularly the churches on every corner—has been enough of a reason to head to South Carolina’s jewel, but recently the city has become a food and drink haven as well. Water views and hipsters abound at the Pavilion Bar ; City Market sells the city’s signature sweetgrass baskets; and dinner at  Husk is a transcendental experience.

6.  New Orleans, LA

After 300 years of existence, New Orleans is in the midst of a renaissance—except for the streets, which are the bumpiest you've ever encountered in a major metropolis. They love to dress up and party here, so put on a wig and mask, and hit the French Quarter and the Marigny for fabulous food at the best New Orleans restaurants . Grab a to-go cup filled with craft cocktails from one of the city’s best bars , and indulge in the live music for which New Orleans is famous. Then dig deeper by visiting the Bywater neighborhood, home to an intoxicating mix of art and funk with incredible murals on every block, and stop at Bacchanal Wine for a munch, a sip, and a song (or two). One thing to remember while here: always keep an eye on the iconic architecture that defines this one-in-a-million, music-loving city.

7.  Milwaukee, WI

You probably didn’t know that Milwaukee holds the world’s largest music festival, Summerfest , over three consecutive weekends in June and July. When the massive festival goes down, the pretty city by Lake Michigan goes more than a little crazy. With 12 stages, over 600 artists and more than half a million fans rolling through, they're taking advantage of the warm weather in a big way. During the rest of the year, think cheese curds, beer breweries, cornhole tournaments and Packers fanatics, juxtaposed with a gorgeous art museum and the annual Sculpture Milwaukee outdoor showcase all over town (summer/fall). It’s a vibrant, friendly city that Harley-Davidson calls home—don’t miss their massive museum here.

8.  Salt Lake City, UT

No matter where you are in Salt Lake City, the snowcapped Rocky Mountains are never out of sight. They tower over the uber-clean city, a stunning landscape fit for a painting. And while Salt Lake is well-known for its Mormon heritage, there's more to the scene here than meets the eye. Restaurants range from the fine-dining favorite Log Haven to a healthy variety of ethnic and international restaurants. And while alcohol isn't as readily available here as in some cities, it's much easier to find than you think, including at the White Horse  downtown. While there, don't forget to take in a little of the outdoors: hiking, swimming, and picnicking at the Great Salt Lake is a good place to start.

9.  Chicago, IL

Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, deep-dish pizza, and the Cubbies: just three of the wonderful things that put Chicago on the world’s radar. It’s a big city with a friendly vibe that’s got a whole street, Rush Street, devoted to drinking and dancing. You can party there until 4am, but save some strength for the festivals this city loves to put on, from  Taste of Chicago  in the summer and July's  Pitchfork Music Fest to the big daddy of them all, Lollapalooza . This oh-so-cold city hunkers down in the winter, unless the Bears are playing football, in which case shirtless guys will brave subzero temps to cheer on their boys at Soldier Field.

10.  Los Angeles, CA

Sun, sand, and movies (in which the city is often the star) make Los Angeles a place the world wants to see in real life. Start at the Hotel Erwin’s rooftop in Venice for an expansive view of the whole city, then explore everything from the ocean to the mountains as you crisscross L.A. County. Expect its famous traffic to slow you down as you head to Malibu for a surfing session; make a pit stop at the Getty Museum , then step in the stars’ footprints at TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood . Blow your shopping budget on Rodeo Drive , then head south to Anaheim to pilot the Millenium Falcon at Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge universe.

11.  Nashville, TN

Honky-tonks and museums might not seem to go together, but their marriage in Nashville is a strong one indeed. For some drinking and dancing, head straight for Broadway, where Legend’s Corner , Nudie’s , and Tootsie’s have been serving up country, blues, and whiskey forever. You can start early (10am) and go late into the night (3am) in Music City—if you’ve got the fortitude, of course. Is day drinking not your idea of vacation fun? Start with the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum  and move on to the museums devoted to Patsy Cline and Johnny Cash ; all are right downtown and terrific. See Historic RCA Studio B , where Elvis made countless records, and drive out to the Bluebird Cafe and the Grand Ole Opry . Don’t forget that this is a party town so feel free to visit with a group, rent a barcycle (which is exactly what it sounds like), and roam among the best Nashville bars , singing as you go.

12.  Washington, DC

One of America’s most beautiful cities, stately Washington, D.C. just keeps getting better. The National Mall is truly majestic, with the Capitol building glowing at one end, the Lincoln Memorial at the other, and various Smithsonian museums lining each side. See them all (take a look at our list of the best museums in D.C . for a start), but plan to spend extra time at the new(ish) National Museum of African American History & Culture . Beyond politics, monuments and museums, D.C. boats some cool, emerging neighborhoods like the Wharf (eat at Officina or Del Mar de Fabio Trabocchi ) and Southeast, where the Nationals play baseball and craft beer rules at Bluejacket nearby. Take a look at our guide to where to stay in Washington, D.C. if you’re planning a visit.

13.  St. Louis, MO

For a small-town vibe in a big city, St. Louis is the place to be. Settled by Europeans in 1764, this 'Gateway to the West' has long been the center of America. A few musts while in town: a visit to the famous (and giant) Gateway Arch , a walk through the National Blues Museum , and a stop at BB’s Jazz Blues and Soups . Clearly, blues and barbecue go hand-in-hand here, with classic BBQ joints like Pappy’s Smokehouse and Sugarfire that slow-cook with style. Locals are so serious about the cuisine that the Q in the Lou cookoff is fall's hottest ticket.

14.  Miami, FL

Things constantly sizzle in Miami, where Latin beats and eats swirl in an Art Deco dream. South Beach is the spot for sunning all day on the white sand and clubbing all night. For a really hot time, stop in at the World Erotic Art Museum . For true art lovers, Art Basel Miami in December offers up creative installations, parties and intellectualism. Your itinerary should also be packed full of trips to the city's  best restaurants  from classic Cuban mainstays to Michelin-starred Italian spots.

15.  New York City, NY

Needless to say: there is no place like New York City. An incredible melting pot of cultures, neighborhoods , languages and personal styles, a stroll down any street in Manhattan is always a fascinating experience. Classic old buildings exist shoulder-to-shoulder with new ultra-modern architecture like those in Hudson Yards , constantly morphing the city’s identity into exciting new molds. When in town, indulge in more than one Broadway show , visit all the museums , stroll around Central Park , eat the best bagels in NYC (and any drool-worthy haute cuisine you can manage), drink at a speakeasy , catch a Yankee game, and start wondering why you haven’t moved here yet.

16.  San Diego, CA

It’s not a myth: San Diego boasts the very best weather across America, with 70-degree Fahrenheit temperatures, low humidity, and sunny skies all year round. Add in the beautiful bay and beaches, a famous zoo and the endearing madness of Comic-Con International, and it’ll become impossible not to love this quintessential California city. Foodies adore the seafood and Mexican cuisine done to perfection here; gamblers flock to Pechanga and Viejas , the two posh Native American casinos nearby; and kids dream of Legoland . San Diego has something for everyone. 

17.  Las Vegas, NV

Ah, Vegas. The place that every foreigner cannot wait to visit when seeing America. More lightbulbs in one place than anywhere, more ways to gamble than your wallet can bear, the glitter, glitz, and jangling slot machines are the city’s signature perks. But Vegas is more than just casinos rising out of the desert. Head off the famed Strip to downtown’s fascinating Mob Museum and find out who built this decadent mecca in the first place. Eat at a world-class chef’s world-renowned restaurant ( Joël Robuchon , anyone?), drive supercars at 200mph with Exotics Racing and zip out to Red Rock Canyon for a mind-bending desert experience. Whatever you want, Vegas always has it.

18.  Orlando. FL

With theme parks like Universal Studios Florida, Legoland  and Walt Disney World , Orlando has been the place for families for generations. And now, with the arrival of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney World, there will be plenty of adults with no kids descending on Orlando as well. The city is ready, with an impressive range of restaurants anchored by DoveCote Brasserie and The Boheme  and an equally adult club scene that pays homage all sorts of tunes, from country and hip hip to rock and pop.

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The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2021

When the time comes to travel again, these destinations — all right in your own backyard — are the ones to visit next.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Even for the compulsive jetsetters among us, it's a simple truth that most travel stories are aspirational in the best of times. There are too many incredible places to see, not enough vacation days, and sometimes we all have to content ourselves with scrawling another spot on the bucket list and hoping the stars align.

But this year, as we all sat at home and watched the world come to a halt, "aspirational" took on new meaning. When restrictions relaxed this summer , the familiar wanderlust crept back in. With even the most straightforward international getaways ruled out, and many travelers still hesitant to hop on a plane, even simple trips — scenic drives , camping weekends , staycations across town — suddenly felt novel and luxurious.

Related : Guide to more travel ideas

With the first vaccines now rolling out, it seems the end of our long international nightmare is finally (finally!) in sight. In anticipation of that moment, we've once again compiled our annual list of the best places to travel in the coming year — with one twist. In honor of our revived appreciation for the discoveries to be made in our own backyards, this year's list features 50 dynamic, of-the-moment destinations — all right here in the United States.

Related : The Top 15 Cities in the United States

Some spots on the list ahead are newly blossoming thanks to hotel or infrastructure developments or revamped cultural attractions. Others caught on this summer, as social distancing made empty expanses of wilderness more compelling than ever and we all looked for new wells of charm in our own home states. What they all have in common is that singularity that makes a destination memorable — the sense that this place has something to offer that you won't find anywhere else in the world.

One day soon, we'll all get back to traveling the way we did before. We'll gripe about security lines and airplane meals , delight at hearing an unfamiliar language or staying in a new hotel , develop passionate loyalties for a particular food truck or coffee kiosk. Until then, we hope this list will serve as something to hold onto — to stoke your wanderlust and keep the tiny flame of optimism burning. Sure, it's a little bit aspirational. But that just means we're still willing to dream.

Related : The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2020

Ahead, Travel + Leisure 's 50 best places to travel in 2021, listed in alphabetical order.

1. Alaska's Coast

In the midst of the pandemic, Alaska's entire May to September cruise season was cancelled in 2020. That left some 1.3 million travelers unable to board ships to experience thunderously calving glaciers, frolicking humpback whales, lively gold rush towns, and fascinating Alaska Native arts scenes. Tourism providers missed serious income. Cruise lines and local officials express muted optimism about 2021, which may be the best year to see Alaska given that cruise ships are unlikely to sail full and coastal towns won't have their typical crowds even post-vaccine rollout. Or skip the civilization part: Vast national parks such as Glacier Bay, Misty Fjords, and Kenai Fjords are best reached by boat. Small ship soft-adventure lines such as UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions — and ultra-luxurious Seabourn with its zodiac and kayak exploration program on the 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey — have one-week itineraries that spend most of their time in the wild. For more privacy, rent the six-passenger, 78-foot Sea Mist for a luxury yachting experience in Prince William Sound, home to more active tidewater glaciers than anywhere else in the world. — Fran Golden

Listen to Travel + Leisure's "Let's Go Together" podcast for more inspiring stories and adventures celebrating inclusivity in travel!

2. Astoria, Oregon

Goonies never say die, and neither does the nostalgia of visiting Astoria, the northwestern Oregon town at the mouth of the Columbia River where the '80s cult classic film was shot. The oldest American settlement in the West, this charming seaside town evokes a simpler time with its colorful Victorian houses and treasure-filled antique shops. Around these parts, freshness matters only for fish and beer. A new mobile passport program by the North Coast Craft Beer Trail ensures drinkers find their way to both big names like Fort George Brewery — famous for its IPAs — and smaller spots like the 20-barrel Buoy Beer , built in a former fish cannery right on the river. It's one of many old cannery sites that have found new lives here, most notably the boutique Cannery Pier Hotel , where new ownership plans a February unveiling of renovations to its spa — famed for the Finnish sauna and water-view hot tub. Though the town made its name on tinned fish, Astoria now thrives on the direct connection to fresh seafood at places like South Bay Wild Fish House, from the family behind a fishing vessel of the same name. At their restaurant, sustainably caught Dungeness crab, Oregon pink shrimp, black cod, and more goes direct from boat to bánh mì. — Naomi Tomky

3. The Berkshires

City-dwellers have been visiting this region of gently rolling hills and charmingly sedate towns in Western Massachusetts since the 19th century, but a welcome boost of youthful energy arrived with the 2018 opening of the design-forward hotel Tourists in North Adams and, last year, the launch of Miraval Berkshires , the third location of the luxe wellness resort. While summer is still the most popular season, thanks in part to the beloved classical music venue Tanglewood and dance center Jacob's Pillow, there are still plenty of opportunities for social distancing, from the enormous exhibition spaces at the contemporary art museum Mass Moca , to the pastoral acres surrounding the Clark Art Institute (home to the Institute's first-ever outdoor exhibition, Ground/work, through October 2021), to a hike up Mount Greylock or Monument Mountain, to a meal at Cantina 229 , a restaurant set on a farm that offers outdoor seating in warmer months. Mooncloud, a new bar in Great Barrington, is riding out the pandemic with a slate of to-go meals and cocktail kits. Tuck in for the night at the peaceful but chic Inn at Kenmore Hall , a bed and breakfast in a classical Georgian estate. — Peter Terzian

4. Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky 's 5,800 acres of skiable terrain makes it a fan favorite for crowd-free skiing in the Rocky Mountains. But a multi-year, $150 million investment into Big Sky Resort aims to transform this region of Southwest Montana into America's Alps, meaning skiers may soon have to share their powder-perfect runs. Last year, The Wilson Hotel , a Residence Inn by Marriott, made headlines when it became the first and only major brand hotel to open in Big Sky's town center (don't miss the soon-to-open Tips Up, a vintage-inspired tavern across the street). Now, all eyes are on the $400 million ultra-luxury Montage Big Sky , which will open its doors for the 2021-22 ski season within Spanish Peaks Mountain Club , a 3,500-acre private golf and ski community. The 150-key resort features ski-in, ski-out access, an 11,000-square-foot spa, and a four-lane bowling alley. In warmer climes, guests can enjoy the development's 18-hole golf course, nearby fly-fishing rivers, and an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. Two slope-side hotels, the Summit and the Huntley Lodge , have renovations in the works, and Moonlight Basin , another private development adjacent to the ski resort, has plans to build a luxury hotel (a One&Only if the rumors are true) on its 8,000-acre-property, which is also home to a thousand-acre high-elevation Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. New airlift is ushering travelers from Nashville, Fort Lauderdale, and Charlotte, N.C. to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (less than an hour's drive from downtown Big Sky), while a new six-person high-speed chairlift will begin whizzing people up Lone Peak in record time starting next November. When the snow melts, Big Sky's 18-mile proximity to Yellowstone National Park adds even more appeal for nature lovers in search of epic adventures in the great outdoors. Just be sure to get there before everyone else does. — Nora Walsh

5. Birmingham, Alabama

The modern scene in The Magic City is a great example of what can happen when Alabama kids head off to the big city to hone their skills, then return home to do their thing — in a really high-quality way. Take Chef Adam Evans: the Muscle Shoals native worked in New Orleans and New York and opened The Optimist with Ford Fry in Atlanta before heading back to B-Ham to launch Automatic Seafood & Oysters . Moves like this — along with quirky java shops ( Red Cat Coffee House ), upscale cocktail bars ( Paper Doll ), a women-owned vegan food truck , and the Pizitz global food hall — have brought a vibrancy to the city, where contemporary charm and old Southern hospitality mingle on a big scale. The destination is catching up to demand for luxury lifestyle hotels with the Valley Hotel , opening in the historic, cool-again suburb Homewood in January with a new outpost of Edgar's Bakery and more restaurants to come. Railroad Park , a 19-acre green space, has transformed downtown over the last decade, with walking trails, food truck festivals, and an outdoor symphony. And look for Protective Stadium , a 47,000-seat facility and entertainment district, to open in 2021. —Kelsey Ogletree

6. The Black Hills of South Dakota

The great American road trip is the best example of the journey as the destination. As Americans took to the road in search of wide-open spaces this year , places that may have been overlooked for lack of airlift found a new audience. South Dakota's Black Hills have long been a mandatory road trip stop — its mountains are home to Mount Rushmore, the historic town of Deadwood, and several national monuments and parks — and now it's back on the map as a destination in its own right. The region first got a little more glamour two years ago, when glamping outfitter Under Canvas raised its tent poles among the pine and juniper trees just four miles from the presidential monument. And this year, intrepid travelers can see the area in a fresh way with the debut of Adventure Cycling's new Parks, Peaks, and Prairies cycling route, which pieces together trails winding from Yellowstone to Minneapolis. Over in historic Deadwood, a new year-round public space in the heart of town, Outlaw Square, is home to a slew of activities that sound luxurious after nearly a year in lockdown — movie nights, concerts — while in Rapid City, work is underway on the Monument, a massive civic center expansion that will bring bigger crowds to landmark events like the Black Hills Powwow , which marks its 35th anniversary next fall. — Scott Bay

7. Buffalo, New York

Sure, you've heard rumblings about Buffalo's restaurants, or maybe its brewery boom. But lately, the city is getting attention for its visual arts scene — and most notably, a game-changing new gallery that's Native American-owned and dedicated entirely to Indigenous art. Dave Kimelberg, a member of the Seneca Nation of Indians, founded K. Art — the only gallery of its kind in the U.S. — this year in an effort to showcase the diversity of Native nations and carve out a bigger space in the market for contemporary Native works. Elsewhere in the city, the Albright-Knox Art Gallery is undergoing a massive expansion, currently slated for completion in 2022; until then, visit the institution's Northland campus, or explore projects across the city from the AK Public Art Initiative . Still more developments are in the works: the $65 million Silo City restoration and reuse will bring arts, commercial, and exhibition space to a string of abandoned grain silos, and golf brand OnCore is launching a massive golf complex and hotel on the Buffalo River. — Scott Bay

8. Burlington, Vermont

Escaping to Vermont sounds like a way to get in touch with nature and spend some time on a farm, but Burlington has all the offerings of a much larger city — plus opportunities to get some much-needed fresh air. The city is home to an array of bars and restaurants slinging creative drinks: Deli 126 , The Archives , Misery Loves Co. , Peg & Ter's , and a collaboration between Orlando's Bar & Lounge and Grandma's Spanish Kitchen with Cuban and Peruvian influences. CO Cellars — located in the Soda Plant , a small business base camp with everything from custom lighting to pickles — sells local naturally fermented fruit wines from ZAFA Wines and Shacksbury Cider. And if that's not enough, Dedalus Wine Shop and Market will help you taste through an array of natural wines from around the world, paired with housemade charcuterie, cheeses, and Spanish-inspired bites from the kitchen. Enjoy a slice of private beach with stand-up paddleboarding, yoga, and windsurfing at Burlington Surf Club when the weather is warmer. When there's at least a few inches of snow on the ground, the adventurous can try winter sports: Hotel Vermont will equip you with gear to get you going, whether you want to go snowshoeing or Nordic skiing through the snowy streets or down Vermont hillsides, dare to try snowkiting, or prefer to ice skate on the frozen parts of Lake Champlain. To fuel up for — or warm up after — some time in the snow, try an array of pakoras at the newly-opened Elaichi , tacos and margs at Taco Gordo , dynamic Chinese fare at A Single Pebble 's brick-and-mortar restaurant or roving food truck, or the combo of Café Mamajuana 's Dominican fusion and Poppy Café & Market 's creative sandwiches in one shared space. Wherever you go, you'll get a combination of small-town hospitality and big-city amenities. — Alyse Whitney

9. Cape May, New Jersey

During the summer of 1852, Harriet Tubman worked as a cook and housekeeper in Cape May, the seaside resort town where the Delaware Bay rushes into the Atlantic Ocean at the knifepoint of New Jersey. That was her day job, anyway. Given that Cape May was a hive of abolitionist activity at the time, it's long been accepted that Tubman's real work was guiding enslaved men and women through this critically situated junction between the South and freedom in Philadelphia and points north. Opening on Juneteenth, the years-in-the-works Harriet Tubman Museum chronicles her time in Cape May while contextualizing the city's status as a critical (and critically overlooked) place in Black history. The museum occupies the former parson's house of the historic Macedonian Baptist Church, and the late Reverend Robert Davis's collection of artifacts (Bantu and Bakota masks, iron shackles used on enslaved peoples) ties the experience back to Africa and the transatlantic slave trade. A few blocks away, the Underground Railroad trolley tour departs to landmarks like abolitionist Stephen Smith's house and the Franklin Street School, the city's first segregated school (slated to become a cultural arts and community center). Renewed interest in Cape May has energized the staid hotel stock, with Philly's Lokal brand opening a crisp beach house with a saltwater pool and the famed Peter Shields Inn debuting Inn Town Suites , a pair of palm-patterned quarters above Willow & Stone , a handsome boutique stocked with waterproof ORI knapsacks and knit cashmere for the modern seafaring rake. For more privacy, the meticulously furnished, ag-fantasy Cottages at Bach Plum Farm are situated on the less developed north side of town betwixt blackberry brambles and heritage hog paddocks — and a leisurely walk to the Cape May Lighthouse , a beacon for safety seekers fleeing slavery and stormy seas since 1859. — Adam Erace

10. The Catskills

From the 1920s to the 60s the scenic mountain region about two hours north of Manhattan boomed as the Borscht Belt, full of sprawling resorts catering chiefly to summering Jewish families. Today, young urbanites are snapping up weekend houses in the area at an ever-increasing rate, and entrepreneurs are following their lead by opening small, design-y hotels all over the region. The 15-room Shandaken Inn , in the village of Shandaken, puts outdoor enthusiasts within 25 minutes of the popular zipline canopy tours on Hunter Mountain and 35 minutes of the hiking trail to Kaaterskill Falls, the tallest cascading waterfall in the state. Seven miles down the road is the third outpost from Urban Cowboy . This 28-room fully embraces its rural setting near the Big Indian Wilderness forest preserve with on-site pursuits that include swimming and fishing for trout in the Esopus Creek. About an hour and a half southwest of Big Indian, Kenoza Hall began as a boarding house in the early 1900s. Sims Foster and his wife, Kirsten Harlow Foster, who own the nearby DeBruce inn , have overhauled the building, marrying historic touches like the original hardwood floors with custom elements, including sleigh beds. The boomlet shows no signs of slowing in 2021. Homeware design duo Nolan McHugh and Trevor Briggs are set to enter the hospitality scene in March with Piaule Catskill , a 24-cabin landscape hotel located just outside the region's namesake town. (Expect minimalist structures with lots of glass accented by steel and cedar.) Then in April, Sant Singh Chatwal of the Dream Hotel Group will open Chatwal Lodge in Bethel. Making the most of its position on 60 forested acres of the Chapin Estate, the refuge looks out onto the Toronto Reservoir and takes inspiration from its natural surroundings for decor elements like hand-carved wood accents and massive stone fireplaces. Accommodations will consist of 10 suites, a treehouse, and a glamping tent, and the food and beverage options will include a farm-to-table restaurant that will source fish from the onsite trout stream and produce from its own kitchen garden. — Sarah Bruning

11. Cincinnati, Ohio

The first clues that the Queen City — a Rust Belt capital that was hard hit by the decline of American manufacturing — was poised for a comeback started a few years ago, when tech startups and small businesses moved into disused Over-the-Rhine warehouses, filmmakers flocked in to take advantage of tax breaks and early-20th-century architecture, and historic spaces like the city's Music Hall got a much-needed polish. Now, the urban revival is official — but sneak in a 2021 visit and you can still claim to be a trendsetter. Check into the Kinley , which opened its doors in downtown Cincy in October with a much-buzzed-about restaurant from chefs Kevin Ashworth and Edward Lee. While you're in town, dine at restaurant standouts Please and Goose & Elder , explore new outdoor installations at the Cincinnati Art Museum , and pay a visit the lauded Cincinnati Zoo , whose animal dispatches on social media are the only reasonable justification for keeping your Twitter account. —Lila Battis

12. Delaware

Over the past year, Delaware has been making headlines as the de facto HQ for No. 46 and his transition team, but there's plenty of reason for buzz beyond politics. Many of the recent developments that have drawn young professionals to the capital of Wilmington from nearby hubs like Philadelpha — creative businesses, a high-caliber culinary scene, fewer crowds — also appeal to travelers. Wilmington's marquee hotel, Hotel DuPont , recently underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment that breathed new life into its iconic Green Room, which now houses the refined French restaurant Le Cavalier, and added De.CO , a casual food hall with six stalls and a bar. Sartorially inclined visitors would do well to check out wares from Town and Store Studio. (For the time being, designer Liv McClintock is selling her handmade leather goods and jewelry via pop-ups and trunk shows.) And though Torbert Street Social is temporarily closed to adhere to COVID restrictions, the recent addition to Wilmington's cocktail scene is worth a stop for such well-crafted originals as the LL Mule J, which pairs vodka with blood orange and kombucha. Come summer, it'll be hard to stay away from the revitalized Riverfront area, which encompasses a number of seafood joints and provides access to watersports and local walking trails. — Sarah Bruning

13. Denver's Lower Highlands

When you visit a city, you want to be based where the cool crowd is. In Denver, that means the hip, arty Lower Highlands neighborhood. LoHi, as it's known by locals, has long been the city's hub for creative cocktails, craft breweries, and cult restaurants, like Pan-Latin small plates spot Señor Bear and Israeli hit Ash'Kara . In the face of a pandemic, the hood has loyally supported exciting newcomers including Fifth String , a restaurant focused on family-style dishes and natural wines, and Room for Milly , a cocktail bar inspired by the roaring 20s. The recent addition of 17-room Life House Lower Highlands finally gives visitors an option beyond Airbnb if they want to be immersed in the LoFi action. Located in the heart of the Navajo Street Art District, the intimate stay transports guests to a Victorian-era pioneer homestead — but, y'know, cool — with furnishings upholstered in dusty florals, Wild West nods like cowhide detailing and vintage cowboy photos, and a sexy, saloon-inspired restaurant and bar. Through an exclusive partnership with conservation-minded land management group Ranchlands, guests can escape the city for a day and experience the frontier spirit firsthand at Chico Basin Ranch . For a jolt of 21st-century culture, downtown Denver is just a short walk away and will unveil a massive art installation from New Mexico-backed artist collective Meow Wolf later this year. — Jen Murphy

14. Florida's Middle Keys

The closest you can get to a Caribbean vacation without leaving the continental U.S., the laid-back islands between Key Largo and Key West took the brunt of Hurricane Irma in 2017 and are where you want to visit in 2021 to connect with one of the country's most fragile ecosystems, both above and below sea level: astronomer-led stargazing walks at the family-friendly Hawk's Cay on Duck Key; Grimal Grove , where community organizer-turned-tropical fruit farmer Patrick Garvey is raising five varieties of nutritious breadfruit to fight hunger insecurity; the Turtle Hospital on Marathon, whose recent 911s include caring for babies beached by Hurricane Eta and endangered Kemps-Ridleys cold-stunned (like hypothermia for turtles) in Cape Cod. While unseasonably chilly water spells trouble up north, warming seas and a still-unidentified infection has bleached up to 98 percent of the Keys' local reef — the largest in North America — but the young scientists at the MOTE Elizabeth Moore marine lab on Summerland Key are in the midst of a promising project to rejuvenate the crippled reef through lab reproduction (like IVF for coral). You can even participate in a hands-on underwater coral transplant through a new partnership with Captain Hook 's dive center on Big Pine. To balance good work with sybaritic indulgence, there's no beating the scalloped pool and impeccable residences at Marathon's recently reopened Marlin Bay Resort & Marina . The resort is walking distance to Keys Fisheries , the best place in the islands for stone crab, a sustainable specialty that goes for $3 a claw in season at the pleasingly disheveled upstairs bar. — Adam Erace

15. Fort Worth, Texas

A walloping dose of Texas heritage — with some luxe, modern updates — is drawing visitors to hit the city where the West begins. The historic Fort Worth Stockyards , once a resupply stop for cattle drovers, captures the celebrated legacy of Texas' bustling livestock industry with rodeos, a history museum, and the world's only twice-daily cattle drive. It's also home to an array of boutiques rich with Lone Star style: In Mule Alley, visit Lucchese for a pair of hand-stitched boots, and stop at Stetson for the obligatory cowboy hat. The forthcoming Hotel Drover , too, will pay homage to the cowboys of old. Set to open in early 2021, the property has a design sensibility that's Old West-meets-Spanish Colonial, with a sprinkling of Victorian smoking lounge moodiness. Embark on a tour of the city's booming creative scene with stops at Art Tooth and the recently renovated Amon Carter Museum of American Art , then cap off your evening with some of Texas's best grain-to-glass bourbon at Blackland Distilling . Stay overnight at the soon-to-open Hotel Dryce , a posh, locally owned boutique hotel and bar situated in Fort Worth's Cultural District. — Gabrielle Nicole Pharms

16. Galena, Illinois

Hidden from the highway just a 30-minute drive from Dubuque, the town of Galena was once the largest riverboat port north of St. Louis. That may have made it one of the state's most influential cities in its 19th-century heyday, but today, history buffs are more likely to recognize it by name as home to nine former Civil War generals, most famously Ulysses S. Grant. And in an era when all of us are rediscovering regional treasures instead of heading further afield, the town has all the makings of the perfect afternoon: A main street just blocks from the Galena River that can be fully explored in a few hours, regional history museums , quirky boutiques, art galleries showcasing local talents , a bar on every corner, and a handful of restaurants. The magic begins not at the P.T. Murphy Magic Theatre , but on the journey into the downtown district: the quick and distinct shift from convenient fast food stops and gas stations to Late Victorian facades and cobblestones sets an oddly comforting tone, whether you're a repeat visitor or not. Galena's easygoing charm is enough to draw both domestic and international tourists, but taking a walk along what's locally known as the "Helluva Half Mile" will plant itself in your memory. If you're looking to extend your stay, book a room at the DeSoto House , the state's oldest operating hotel. —Erika Owen

17. Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah

Glamping retreats gained new appeal in 2020 as travelers scrambled to safely scratch the vacation itch. And though the vaccine promises a slow return to normal in the months ahead, the taste for luxury in the wild is here to stay. That's good news for luxury glamping operator Under Canvas, which will round out its western offerings with the new Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase next year. The property sits on a 220-acre expanse right on the edge of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument , and guests staying in one of its 50 tents can enjoy all the standard Under Canvas amenities — chic, modern furnishings, s'mores by the fire — along with the option to tack on visits to the brand's other area properties for a full Southwestern road trip experience. Just a few miles down the road in Canyon Point, Aman, too, is jumping on the tented-camp trend with Camp Sarika , a ten-suite Amangiri offshoot that has an away-from-it-all feel — along with heated plunge pools, fire pits, soaking tubs, and views of the sunset over the surrounding mesas. —Lila Battis

18. The Gulf Coast

Picture a white-sand beach, clear aquamarine water, gently swaying palms — the almost-too-perfect scene that looks for all the world like a Caribbean paradise or a remote cove in the Seychelles. Along the Gulf Coast, beauty like this is a given, and a road-trip is the best way to get your fill. Tampa is a great kickoff point; stay at the newly opened Hotel Haya , which nods to the city's Cuban roots. On the Florida Panhandle, the cluster of towns that make up the Emerald Coast offer charms to spare. Grab a vacation rental for a few days to explore tony Alys Beach, which feels for all the world like it was plucked from a Grecian isle — its private shoreline, miles of meandering bike paths, and see-and-be-seen pool-restaurant complex have made it a favorite among the ultrawealthy. Over in Sandestin, Hotel Effie opens this February, with 250 rooms and a restaurant from chef Hugh Acheson. Time your trip right and you can make it to the Emerald Coast Open , a tournament focused on spearing invasive lionfish. At the corresponding Restaurant Week, local chefs work delicious magic with a fish long written off as bad eating. End your trip in Alabama's twin Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, where repair efforts are underway after Hurricane Sally swept through this fall. Family-friendly Perdido's Beach Resort will reopen in March after a full renovation, and closed areas of Gulf State Park are expected to reopen next year. Luckily, some of the area's biggest highlights — its 32 miles of pristine powder beaches, the carnival of seafood delights at Fisher's — remain unchanged. —Lila Battis

19. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis may be famous for its annual Indy 500 motorsports race, but it's the state capital's arts and culture scene that's revving on all cylinders. Next year, the eight-mile Cultural Trail will undergo a two-mile extension, making it even easier to explore Circle City's attractions on two wheels, including the revamped Madam Walker Legacy Center and the new 12-acre Bottleworks District along Carrollton Ave. Here, a $300 million investment is giving new life to an Art Deco gem—a 1930s Coca-Cola bottling plant whose restored terracotta facade, original terrazzo floors and tilework, and vintage brass doors will be on full display at the 139-room Bottleworks Hotel debuting this month. An Asian-fusion restaurant, coffee bar, nail salon, and speakeasy are coming soon to the property, while old maintenance garages across the street are being converted into a 20-vendor food hall , a duckpin bowling bar and an independent movie theater. This spring, James Beard-nominated chef Abbi Merriss will open Kan-Kan , an arthouse cinema and brasserie in Windsor Park, while chef Craig Baker is using colorful shipping containers to repurpose a 40,000 square foot building in the 16 Tech neighborhood into a food lover's paradise with a European-style marketplace and dining venues. In June, THE LUME will permanently transform The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields ' 30,000-square-foot fourth floor into a digital art space with an inaugural exhibit featuring 3,000 moving images of Vincent Van Gogh paintings set to a classical music score. — Nora Walsh

20. Kansas City, Missouri

The City of Fountains has so much more to offer than its (rightly praised) barbecue. The Crossroads Arts District, in particular, has seen notable growth since the Crossroads Hotel reopened inside the former Pabst bottling plant in 2018. Last February saw the arrival of Mean Mule Distilling Co.'s Agave Lounge, a tasting room dedicated to blue-agave–based spirits. James Beard finalist Michael Corvino's late-night burger (served at his fine-dining supper club) became so popular that, in September, he decided to launch a dedicated venture, Ravenous, inside food hall Parlor KC . Several new breweries have also established roots in the neighborhood, with Casual Animal , Border Brewing Co. , Double Shift , and Torn Label . Elsewhere in the city, female entrepreneurs have proven particularly resilient in the face of the pandemic. When actor Jackie Nguyen's touring production had to close, the first-gen Vietnamese-American started Cafe Cà Phê , a mobile coffee shop serving both the classic beverage and Nguyen's creative riffs. Yoli Tortilleria brought Sonoran-style tortillas to the city — first with its own retail shop, then through several local markets and restaurants. There's also cultural news of note for 2021: after almost three years, the long-awaited renovation of the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum is finally complete, and the facility — with its new multimedia and interactive exhibits — will be ready to go once cultural institutions are allowed to reopen. And don't miss the chance to check into KC's latest arrival, the new Hotel Kansas City , which opened this fall in the 1920s building that once housed the Kansas City Club. — Sarah Bruning

21. Las Vegas

You don't go to Las Vegas seeking solitude — you go to indulge, to splash out, to revel in the nonstop energy of this shimmering, seductive oasis in the desert. A city defined by its hypnotic pool parties, around-the-clock gambling, epic nightlife scene, glitzy, over-the-top hotels, and next-level restaurants — each one trying to one up the other — just dreaming about a visit is enough to push your endorphins into overdrive. And after a year of staying still within our own four walls — the extreme antithesis of Sin City — getting back to Vegas and its many venues designed to bring crowds together will feel like the ultimate luxury. Throw in exciting new properties, like the Resorts World Las Vegas, a 3,500-room mega-resort and casino combining Hilton Hotels & Resorts , LXR , and the Conrad across 88 acres; the recently completed Circa Resort & Casino , the first adults-only casino resort with a pool amphitheater; and Virgin Hotels , set to replace the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and well, you've hit the jackpot. — Alisha Prakash

22. Lexington, Kentucky

A handful of pilgrimage-worthy culinary and cultural developments will draw travelers to the Bluegrass State's second-largest city in 2021. It's not just The Queen's Gambit that has drummed up excitement around Lexington. After sitting empty for 20 years, Greyline Station has been newly reimagined as a 70-stall open market populated by dozens of local small businesses like North Lime Coffee and Donuts and Old North Bar, which will have a "sip and stroll'' license so visitors can enjoy a beverage while they browse. The anchor tenant — taking up just over a third of the 65,000 square feet — is Julietta Market , an open-air grocery in the vein of Seattle's Pike Place and Barcelona's La Boqueria. Elsewhere in the city will be the new Fresh Bourbon distillery from entrepreneur Sean Edwards, who grew up in Lexington and learned the craft from his grandfather and uncles. The 34,000-square-foot facility is set to be the largest Black-owned distillery in the state when it opens and will offer tours and guided tastings. Cultural sites are also furthering initiatives to tell a richer, more diverse history of Kentucky: Don't miss new walking tours of Lexington from the Faulkner Morgan Archive , an organization dedicated to preserving and chronicling the state's LGBTQ+ legacy. — Sarah Bruning

23. Lopez Island, Washington

Only the chilly saltwater splashing onto the rocky shores — and the occasional moo of the local farm animals — seem to disrupt the peaceful calm of Lopez Island. Idyllic nearly to the point of absurdity, the pace of life on these 30 acres in Puget Sound appeals to those who find serenity in the scenic route. For bicyclists, that comes in the form of the gentle, rolling roads that double as bike paths as they wind around the island. For food lovers, it means a feast of artisanal baked goods, heritage meats, and foraged foods from farm stands, markets, and restaurants. Midnight's Farm encapsulates the Lopez ethos, selling rotationally grazed grass-fed beef from little more than a cash box nailed to the side of a lean-to, hosting yoga classes in an on-site studio, and renting out the homey field house for farm stays. North Star Farms uses their own wheat to bake bagels and doughnuts from the kitchen at the Edenwild, a cozy boutique inn. And Barn Owl Bakery sells its wild sourdough alongside spreads from Ursa Minor , where chef Nick Coffey distilled the flavors of Lopez Island into world-class multi-course menus before swiftly transitioning to community-centric takeout during the pandemic. — Naomi Tomky

24. Los Angeles

Visit Los Angeles for the stress-relieving powers of sunshine and surf, stay to see two long-awaited museums finally open their doors. Renzo Piano has reimagined the 1930s May Company department store in Mid-Wilshire, where the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures will unveil its centerpiece, the last-surviving full-scale shark model from Steven Spielberg's "Jaws," when it opens in April. Other collection highlights include Judy Garland's ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz," items from the late Debbie Reynolds' personal collection, and memorabilia from the Star Wars and Matrix films. If all that entertainment leaves you thirsty, 2021 will be the year a craft beer scene flourishes in South L.A.'s Florence neighborhood, thanks to the soon-to-open 13,000-square-foot South Los Angeles Beverage Company, a Black-owned brewery, tasting room, cidery, and coffee roastery. Meanwhile, a spate of new hotel openings is led by the Pendry West Hollywood , the brand's first L.A. property, opening in January at the former House of Blues on the iconic Sunset Strip. In Century City, the expansive Fairmont Century Plaza will have 400 rooms and 63 luxury residences, and in Downtown L.A., the latest Proper location will feature Kelly Wearstler's eclectic design combining work from California-based artists, plus restaurants, bars, and a rooftop pool sure to be a hit with the Staples Center crowd. — Nina Ruggiero

Miami continues to prove it's much more than its blockbuster beaches and hedonist party scene. Early next year, the initial phase of the Underline , a planned 10-mile linear park below Miami's Metrorail (from the same design studio as New York's High Line ), will debut as the "Brickell Backyard" on a half-mile stretch from the Miami River to Coral Way. Expect public art, free concerts, outdoor gathering spaces, fitness activities, and lush landscapes with butterfly gardens. Cap off a visit with a bite at one of Brickell City Centre 's various new dining concepts, like the Cuban-inflected Marabu . Meanwhile, the neighborhood of Allapattah has become a fledgling arts district home to billionaire Jorge Perez' year-old museum El Espacio 23 , the Rubell Museum , and the highly-anticipated 50,000-square-foot experiential art space, Superblue , launching with three large-scale installations this spring. Throughout 2021, an overhauled CocoWalk will bring retailers, eateries, and slick architecture to quaint Coconut Grove. And when it comes time to bed down, travelers have their pick of glossy new Miami Beach hotels flaunting Art Deco design, swoon-worthy pools and exceptional food and drink. Check out souped-up iterations of the W Hotel , Mondrian , the Ritz-Carlton ; recently opened Palihouse and Kimpton's Palomar; and upcoming sure-to-be-hot spots Moxy Miami , Citizen M Citizen MCitizen M and Goodtime Hotel , the brainchild of hospitality mogul David Grutman and singer Pharrell Williams. —Nora Walsh

26. Nantucket

The charm of Nantucket is that not much changes. Luckily, the historic cobblestone downtown, the tiny rose-covered S'conset cottages, the timeless beaches — they're all still here. But as locals mark the 200th anniversary of the sinking of the Nantucket whaling ship Essex and cannibalism on the high seas, it's a perfect time to remember that even on Nantucket, some changes can be okay. This year, the iconic Century House on Cliff Road left the ranks of Nantucket's bed and breakfast lodgings to join the new Life House Nantucket . It's just the latest of the new boutique hoteliers marrying tradition with luxury in the historic downtown — check out the Greydon House and their new Venetian-inspired small plates at Via Mare. From there, grab locally sourced provisions from Proprietors Bar and Table , Company of The Caldron , or Black-Eyed Susan's , or wander to Tap Room , recently restored to the cellar of the Jared Coffin House. Out of town, Cisco Brewers is upping its game, partnering with the Levitate Music and Arts Festival to bring a schedule of big-name bands to play their festive outdoor island flagship location. After 2020, couldn't we all use some outdoor tunes, craft beer, and a few cocktails? — Charles Graeber

27. Nashville

Nashville has been an "it" city for a while, we know. But if you look past Lower Broadway — and the hoards of bachelor and bachelorette parties that roam the stretch — there's a lot more to the city than honky-tonks and country. In January, the long-awaited National Museum of African American Music will open its doors, adding a permanent home to celebrate the work of Black musicians and the evolution of gospel, blues, jazz, and hip-hop, among others. The 346-room W hotel will bring new flavor to the upscale Gulch, while legacy brands like Conrad and Four Seasons continue building out a true luxury market in Music City. Assembly Food Hall , at nearly 100,000 square feet, will bring over 24 restaurant stalls and a new music venue space overlooking the historic Ryman Auditorium downtown. And we'll all be celebrating the Dolly Parton-funded vaccine at Graduate Hotel's Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar, White Limozeen . —Tanner Saunders

28. New Orleans

New Orleans never goes out of style , though for a moment, with 2021's Mardi Gras parade season called off due to crowd concerns, it looked as if next year would be a low point for the city. But the top krewes rallied — drumming up virtual parades and scavenger hunts, making plans to deck out houses in lieu of floats , and charging forward with fundraising efforts to support their communities — reminding us all that this beloved city's spirit is irrepressible. And while Mardi Gras may not look the same in 2021, that doesn't mean there's nothing to look forward to. This fall saw the opening of The Chloe , a 14-room hotel on St. Charles with an interior that marries old-fashioned drama and playful, pastel-colored sweetness. Still to come: Four Seasons New Orleans , a $530 million conversion of the landmarked World Trade Center building, right on the banks of the Mississippi. — Lila Battis

29. New York City

It's often said that change is the only constant in New York — the very name serves as a reminder that new is indeed its hallmark. When the pandemic hit hard this spring, the city — resilient at its core — slowly reinvented itself: Restaurants eventually set up shop curbside, performances and museums went virtual, bars began peddling to-go cocktails from modest, makeshift windows, and hotels transformed rooms into remote offices. When the city cracks its door open to travel again, it will undoubtedly be another new New York. Its fresh look will include a slew of new hotels, like the Aman New York , with a three-story spa and sweeping Central Park views; the sophisticated yet laid-back Pendry , perched in Manhattan's Hudson Yards district; and the Ritz-Carlton NoMad , a 38-floor tower touting a public garden, rooftop bar, and striking city vistas. Meanwhile, luxury hospitality group Six Senses , known for its wellness resorts in places like Bali and the Maldives, will soon bring a dose of its signature tranquility to the high-octane urban landscape, with a standout spa and calming views of the High Line and Hudson River. Restaurants, shops, and museums are poised to make a comeback, too. The only missing ingredient? You. — Alisha Prakash

30. North Carolina's Triangle

For starters, let's get one thing straight: Raleigh-Durham is an airport, not a city. But, okay, it's handy to have a catchall term for this buzzy part of the Southeast, so go with local parlance: The Triangle, shorthand for the Research Triangle, a cluster in the North Carolina Piedmont anchored by the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Even as the area saw through-the-roof growth in recent decades, leisure travelers have overlooked the Triangle in favor of N.C. getaway spots like Asheville or the Outer Banks. That's finally changing as new hotel stock has made it more inviting to linger. Boutique properties like the 53-room Durham Hotel and the tiny, stylish Guest House Raleigh have opened in the past few years, raising the bar for local accommodations and kicking off a wave of new spots with a design-forward sensibility. January 2020 saw the opening of the Longleaf Hotel , a downtown Raleigh motor lodge revamped with a fittingly midcentury-inspired aesthetic, and the sleek Origin Hotel — the upstart brand's fourth location — made its debut this summer. While you're in town, make time to explore the trails of Duke Forest or Umstead Park , wander down Durham's Main Street or Franklin Street in Chapel Hill, and hit up the many incredible restaurants in the area. Much talked-about spots like Saltbox Seafood Joint , Brewery Bhavana , and Garland — not to mention chef Ashley Christensen's stable of restaurants — live up to the hype. But don't overlook the Triangle's longstanding gems: You can't go wrong with La Farm Bakery in Cary for artisan bread and a signature white chocolate baguette, Char-Grill for unfussy burgers, or Crook's Corner in Chapel Hill for the platonic ideal of shrimp and grits. Cap it off with a visit to the downtown Raleigh Krispy Kreme right when the HOT light goes on and you're practically a native. —Lila Battis

31. Northern Minnesota

The promise of starry skies awaits in Minnesota's northern reaches, where Voyageurs National Park recently joined Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness as a certified Dark Sky destination. Clear views of the cosmos — and even the Northern Lights, if you're lucky — are only part of the fun in this water-rich region. Adventurers flock to Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness' 1.1 million rugged acres to paddle 1,200 miles of canoe-portage routes and camp under the constellations. Meanwhile, more than a third of the neighboring 218,000-acre Voyageurs National Park is a watery wonderland, making motorized houseboats a novel way to stargaze and explore the park's five main lakes and boreal and deciduous forests. Both parks offer an abundance of wildlife from aquatic birds and beavers to timber wolves and black bear; miles of scenic nature trails; and opportunities to angle walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. In winter, the firmament glitters even brighter, plus there's dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling (the latter is only offered in Voyageurs National Park). Call on local outfitters to help organize year-round itineraries and stock up on necessary gear.— Nora Walsh

32. Northwest Arkansas

With the opening early last year of the Momentary , a center for arts and culture housed in a former cheese factory, the formerly sleepy town of Bentonville in northwest Arkansas continued its transformation into a hub for creativity and outdoor experiences. Last October, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , founded by Walmart heir Alice Walton, announced that it will augment its collection with an outdoor play space that promises to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The 21c Museum Hotel offers further art adventures, as well as the Hive , one of the region's best restaurants. Venture beyond the town to Bella Vista, where you can hit the 39 miles of mountain biking paths at the recently expanded Little Sugar Trail System, or to Springdale, home of the new J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center , where families can explore exhibitions, nature trails, and an archery range. — Peter Terzian

33. Oahu, Hawaii

In October, America's 50th state once again welcomed visitors from the mainland after six months of pandemic lockdown. And while many travelers opt to use the capital and most populous city, Honolulu, as a stopover to Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, there's good reason to stay put on Oahu this year. The hotel scene continues to expand — most recently with a complete overhaul of a Waikiki classic, Queen Kapi'olani , which debuted its new look in December. Inspired by vintage Hawaiiana and local art, the 315-room resort sits across the street from legendary Waikiki Beach, and is (fittingly) home to a new surf school and shop. Over is Kaimuki — a neighborhood that's become the center of Oahu's increasingly dynamic food world — chef Chris Kajioka followed up his wildly popular (and perennially packed) Arts District restaurant, Senia, with Miro , featuring a French-inspired menu using Japanese techniques and ingredients. And for a look at the island's contemporary art, fashion, and design, head to Kaka'ako, a warehouse-filled industrial area near downtown with an ever-expanding open-air commercial compound, SALT at Our Kaka'ako to check out local creations and a weekly Saturday morning farmers market. — John Wogan

34. Omaha, Nebraska

Nebraska's largest city is hitting its stride. Omaha 's patchwork of eclectic neighborhoods (one of which is home to billionaire Warren Buffett) blends old with new in exciting ways. A shining example: The just-opened Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel , a $75 million reinvention of the iconic Blackstone Hotel, which has played host to notable dignitaries like Eleanor Roosevelt, John and Jackie Kennedy, and Richard Nixon. Special attention was paid to preserving the 105-year-old grand dame's hand-carved terra cotta columns, marble staircase, hardwood floors, and grand ballroom's vaulted ceilings. The property's 21st-century updates include five contemporary dining venues, including a modernized Orleans Room (which, in its heyday, consistently ranked as one of the nation's best restaurants), a steakhouse, and reimagined speakeasy. A host of top-notch culinary purveyors and a 70-work art collection curated by artist Watie White highlights the best of Omaha's local talent. To experience the revival playing out in the surrounding Blackstone District (birthplace of the Reuben sandwich), guests can hop in the hotel's electric tuk-tuk to cruise streets chock full of ultra-hip eateries, craft-beer bars, and trendy boutiques. Be sure to grab front-row seats to Omaha's hot-ticket events in 2021 including the buzzy Omaha Fashion Week in March, where attendees can buy looks right off the runway; the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials in June to see the nation's top athletes compete; and the annual Maha Festival , a high-caliber music and food festival happening late July. — Nora Walsh

35. Orlando

Remember roller coasters? Dole Whips? Carefree days when the most important thing was not getting vertigo on the Tower of Terror? Next year, there's no better place to live out your pent-up theme park fantasies than Walt Disney World Resort, which turns 50 in 2021. No details yet on the actual celebration, but we do know there's a huge transformation of Epcot underway, including new experiences like Remy's Ratatouille Adventure and a space-themed restaurant. Seeking an adrenaline rush (and who isn't, these days)? Hit the new Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal come summer, where you'll catapult upward at 70 miles per hour. Feel safe knowing Orlando was one of the first cities to develop a citywide health and safety program , with major parks going above CDC requirements. (Expect virtual kiosks and check-in at each.) And though its new south terminal won't be open until 2022, Orlando International Airport just introduced on-site COVID testing, one of the first airports in the country to do so. Helping to welcome visitors back, newcomers to Orlando's hotel scene include internationally inspired TRYP by Wyndham opened in November, Dockside Inn and Suites at Universal Orlando Resort in December, AC Hotel Orlando Downtown expected in January 2021, and the upscale Reserve tower at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort (with free shuttle service to Disney) in mid-2021. Fancy downtime away from the city? The tranquil Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes completes a $120 million transformation in February. —Kelsey Ogletree

36. Palm Springs, California

From the cocktails and pools to the starry night skies, the swath of desert east of L.A. never gets old. And now, a new crop of hotels, restaurants, bars, art and even sound bathing experiences are lending fresh energy to Palm Springs and its neighboring desert cities. Soak in mineral-rich waters at the just-opened Azure Palm Hot Springs , a 40-room resort and spa, in Desert Hot Springs. At the reimagined Casa Cody , rooms — 30 in total — feature fireplaces and patios, as well as colorful details such as Moroccan zellige tiles and otomi-embroidered pillows. And at year-old, 27-room Les Cactus , guests wake up to breakfast baskets with freshly baked croissants. Debuting its third installment this year, biennial art exhibition Desert X , which has quietly become a major art attraction, returns with new site-specific installations. Also opening in 2021, the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum is part 48,000-square foot museum and gardens, part bathhouse-cum-spa celebrating the history and culture of the Agua Caliente band of Cahuilla Indians. Come dinner, sample inventive rolls paired with scotch at Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey , helmed by chef Engin Onural. His latest venture is Tailor Shop, a cocktail bar drawing inspiration from faraway places including London, Norway and Hong Kong. For adventure of another kind, head to otherworldly Joshua Tree National Park nearby. The hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing do not disappoint. — Tanvi Chheda

37. Park City, Utah

With Sundance events going mostly virtual and many still wary of travel, Utah's greatest ski town is likely to take a tourism hit this winter. But once it's safe to do so, make a beeline for this outdoor paradise — before everyone else does. A series of big-deal developments in the works have Park City poised for major growth in the coming years. Mayflower Mountain Resort — a massive 6,800-acre, multi-hotel complex which creators claim would be the first new ski resort in the U.S. in 40 years — is in the works for a 2023 opening. If and when it finally debuts, it's expected to bring serious crowds, and a potential agreement with Deer Valley might mean some of the most exclusive slopes in the States (and famously, some of the last to ban snowboarding) get a little more traffic. Elsewhere in town, development for a new arts district is underway, and the forthcoming Pendry Park City is setting up shop in Canyons Village, with 152 guestrooms, a luxe spa, and the area's first rooftop pool. Until that all arrives, soak in the highlights that have made Park City so beloved: the small businesses on historic Main Street , the crowd-free powder at tony Deer Valley , and the year-round outdoor adventures to be found in the surrounding mountains. —Lila Battis

38. Rhode Island

Known for its Colonial seaside towns and Gilded Age mansions, Rhode Island is a destination steeped in history. But it's become a modern hot spot recently with the openings of several new properties. The Wayfinder Hotel in Newport, created by a group of locals, touts its anti-nautical design vibe — visit the on-site restaurant, Nomi Park, for traditional New England fare with a twist. And the past blends with the present at Providence's new hotel, the Beatrice , once the 1887 Exchange Building. Now, it's a 47-room boutique property within walking distance of the university city's buzzing downtown. And there are even options for outdoor enthusiasts thanks to the opening of the 3,500-acre Preserve Sporting Club & Residences in Richmond, from the team behind Ocean House . The one-of-a-kind wilderness retreat features an 18-hole golf course, zip line, mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking, archery, and more. The pint-size state is having such a moment, luxury travel company Black Tomato even included a stop at the Vanderbilt in Newport on a New England road trip itinerary launched as part of its curated Take the Open Road with Auberge and Black Tomato collection. Of course, the classic experiences are just as appealing: You can't leave the Ocean State without making a pilgrimage to try the epic Sunday brunch at Castle Hill Inn , overlooking Narragansett Bay. — Jordi Lippe-McGraw

39. Richmond, Virginia

One of 2020's most indelible images, and the one that best captured the changing identity of Richmond, was that of Marcus-David Peters Circle on Monument Avenue: A statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee astride a horse, its stone plinth a kaleidoscope of tags in support of Black Lives Matter. Now, with the statue's removal in the works, Richmond is looking toward a new, more inclusive future. Virginia's governor announced a proposal to allot $10 million in state funding to redesign the site, along with the stretches of Monument Avenue that once held similar tributes to Confederate figures. Another $9 million is proposed to help improve Richmond's existing Slave Trail and establish a Slavery Heritage Site. Elsewhere in the city, look for public art created this year as part of Mending Walls RVA , a project spearheaded by muralist Hamilton Glass that brings together artists from disparate backgrounds to create murals around Richmond. Newly launched nonstop flights from Florida, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles will make visiting in 2021 a breeze, and Richmond's location — within easy reach of Charlottesville, Virginia Beach, and wine country — makes it an ideal home base for a lengthier exploration of the state. —Lila Battis

40. The Rockies

Colorado's peaks have been all the more alluring in 2020 as outdoor activities became the default and the Great American Road Trip made its long-awaited comeback. But next year holds even more in store for visitors: Rocky Mountaineer , known for its impossibly scenic, glass-domed train rides through western Canada, will launch its first U.S. route in August, from the Rockies via Denver along the Colorado River to the Red Rocks in Moab, Utah. The two-day journey includes sparkling wine toasts and three-course meals served with views of canyons and cliffs, deserts and mountains. Before hopping on board, take time to visit Colorado's newest state park, Fishers Peak , opening its 30 square miles of land in phases. Marked by a 9,633-foot mountain, it's home to black bears, elk, mountain lions, and more wildlife to spot. For skiers, Aspen Snowmass will debut a high-speed chairlift, additional snowmaking for seamless shredding, and a new dining concept at High Alpine Marketplace , an offshoot of local favorite Gwyn's, serving warming dishes with fresh ingredients sourced sustainably from local farmers. At the Viceroy Snowmass , a COVID-era uptick in interest in backcountry skiing has prompted a new Uphill Thrills experience, where guests can book an excursion to Aspen's most isolated slopes and forego the lifts all together. —Nina Ruggiero

41. Santa Fe, New Mexico

A UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art as well as City of Design, Santa Fe is widely known as an arts mecca. Stalwart stays like the Inn at Five Graces and the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi , celebrate that status with their adobe architecture and distinctive art. But sometimes it takes a new hotel to help us see a destination with fresh eyes. The reimagined Bishop's Lodge , Santa Fe's newest luxury hotel in nearly a decade, aims to showcase far more than the city's artistic side when it opens this spring. Set on 317 acres bordering Santa Fe National Forest, the 100-room Auberge Resorts Collection property will offer fly fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wrangler-led trail rides from its on-site stables. A restaurant helmed by Dean Fearing, the godfather of Southwestern cuisine, and a healing arts studio with therapies such as turquoise gem therapy are respites from wilderness adventures. The lodge will serve as a base for new four- and six-day cycling trips from Trek Travel, as well a new road trip itinerary from Black Tomato. Meanwhile, Marcia Gordon, the New Mexico-born co-owner of African safari specialist Extraordinary Journeys, has cast her attention back home, with custom itineraries that might include hikes in Georgia O' Keeffe's beloved Ghost Ranch or Navajo-led walks through the ruins of Chaco Canyon. — Jen Murphy

42. The Sea Islands

Running along the southeastern coast of the U.S. are the Sea Islands, a chain of over 100 tidal and barrier islands spanning from Florida to North Carolina. The marshy region is also home to the Gullah Geechee Corridor , a 12,000-square-mile National Heritage Area — the cultural homeland of the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans who have preserved their traditions and language for centuries. The Sea Islands have emerged as a compelling travel destination in recent years, beginning with President Obama's 2017 move to establish a Reconstruction Era National Monument in South Carolina's Beaufort County. In 2019, a redesignation expanded the corridor, and this year brought still more attention to the region, with the new Reconstruction Era National Historic Network incorporating several sites in the area. You'd need a lifetime to fully explore the islands, but start your trip in South Carolina: Johns Island is home to Moving Star Hall, the last remaining praise house in the region, along with the Angel Oak Tree, rumored to be one of the oldest of its kind east of the Mississippi River. Visit St. Helena to see the Penn Center , one of the first schools for free Black children in America and the site where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. composed his "I Have A Dream" speech. On Georgia's largely undeveloped Cumberland Island, undisturbed views more than make up for the bare-bones facilities, while further south in St. Augustine, Florida, Fort Mose Historic State Park offers opportunities to learn about the first legally recognized free Black settlement in America. Don't leave without a stop at Gullah Grub Restaurant on St. Helena for a taste of true Gullah Geechee cuisine, a seafood- and grain-rich culinary tradition similar to the soul food developed by enslaved Africans across the American South. —Danielle Dorsey

43. Sonoma, California

In the face of back-to-back years of wildfires, Sonoma County is forging ahead to achieve a more sustainable future. As of 2019, 99 percent of the region's vineyards were certified sustainable, earning Sonoma the accolade of world's most sustainable winegrowing region. And last year, area vineyards launched a pilot program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With that earth-conscious ethos, it's only fitting that nature is the star of Sonoma's newest experiences. Guests at the new Montage Healdsburg, which debuted this December, will literally feel like they're living amidst the vines. Nestled among 258 acres of rolling vineyards, the resort's 130 rooms each have spacious outdoor living areas, and guests can book experiences such as yoga classes and wine tastings amid rows of Petit Verdot and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. While Montage begs indulgence at its terroir-to-table restaurant, Hazel Hill, nearby New Tree Ranch , a 120-acre biodynamic farmstead that opened last November, caters to guests in need of a reboot with plant-based menus, sound journeys, and cold water therapies. Boutique operator Bohemian Highway has launched chef-led tours of Healdsburg farms and vineyards leading the way in organic and biodynamic practices. Any DIY wine tasting tour of Healdsburg should include stops at winemaker wunderkind Jess Katz's new sustainably-minded tasting room, Aperture Cellars, and the hip new al fresco venue from winemaker Noah Dorrance's new project, Blood Root Wines . Sonoma's restaurant scene is also heating up. Star chef Michael Mina debuted his first wine country project, Wit & Wisdom , in the town of Sonoma last fall, and later this year, acclaimed chef Douglas Keane will put sleepy Geyserville on the map when he unveils Cyrus 2.0, a reinvention of his two-Michelin-star restaurant previously in Healdsburg. —Jen Murphy

44. Texas Hill Country

Just outside the capital city of Austin is the idyllic region known as the Hill Country . Comprising over 20 towns — along with plenty of lush, loping countryside — the Hill Country has an inimitable charm that those outside of the state just seem to be catching onto. Experience the best in Texas terroir by visiting Driftwood-based wineries like the renowned Fall Creek Vineyards , run one of the founding families of the Texas wine industry, and acclaimed Duchman Family Winery , which makes exceptional wines (try their award-winning Aglianico) from Italian grape varieties. Stay the weekend in one of the rustic-chic Getaway cabins, which opened in early 2020 in the quaint town of Wimberley , and stop for a dram in Dripping Springs' Distillery District, which is home to more than 25 distilleries, such as Treaty Oak Distilling and Deep Eddy Vodka . Complete your weekend road trip with a stay at the luxurious Camp Lucy , situated on 289 acres on a bluff above the famous Onion Creek. — Gabrielle Nicole Pharms

45. Tucson, Arizona

Tucson has long lived in the shadow of its higher-profile Southwestern siblings like Phoenix, Santa Fe, and Las Vegas. But this undercover desert rose has come into its own recently, as more visitors discover the saguaro-dotted city that's been a magnet for wellness enthusiasts long before the term went mainstream. Lately, new, boutique hotels have popped up, joining established spa resorts like Miraval and Canyon Ranch. These include The Tuxon — a 112-room property that takes its whimsical design cues from the region's Mexican and Native American roots — and JTH Tucson , a five-suite earth-toned escape on the edge of Saguaro National Park. And architecture buffs will appreciate projects saved by the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation, like the Ball-Paylore House, an important mid-century modern residence designed by Arthur T. Brown which became available for overnight stays last year. Meanwhile, Tucson continues to cater to outdoorsy types, and anticipation is high for the forthcoming Bike Ranch, a sustainable, 20-acre resort adjacent to Saguaro National Park that's dedicated to all aspects of cycling and mountain biking. — John Wogan

46. Tulsa, Oklahoma

Big, open green spaces like the 100-acre Gathering Place and a high quality of life — especially as measured in microbreweries and trendy restaurants — brought new crowds to the Art Deco darling of Tulsa in recent years. But Tulsa's renaissance remained incomplete without a reconciliation and recognition of the city's dark past. As much of the U.S. learned only last year, through television depictions on Lovecraft Country and Watchmen , the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921 wiped out the thriving and successful neighborhood of Greenwood, known as Black Wall Street. Approaching the 100th anniversary of the horrific attack, a new class of Black artists and entrepreneurs honors and explores that history, bringing residents and visitors to face the dark past through creative means. The Black Moon collective, Black Wall Street Gallery , and Fulton Street Books and Coffee each aim to heal and unify by centering the work and narratives of the Black community. Those narratives come in physical form in the sculptures at John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park , near the coming Greenwood Rising center dedicated to the legacy of Black Wall Street, and site of commemoration events planned leading up to a candlelight vigil marking the anniversary. —Naomi Tomky

47. The U.S. National Parks

The National Park Service saw another banner year in 2020 — even if it was for all the wrong reasons. As the pandemic spurred interest in outdoor pursuits, Yellowstone National Park recorded the busiest September in history . Other biggies, like Joshua Tree, were bracing for huge holiday-season crowds . It should come as no surprise: Travelers also swarmed parks and nature preserves during the 1918 pandemic, according to Quartz . But record visitation and crowding at iconic spots kind of defeats the point of exploring wide-open spaces, doesn't it? Enter TCS World Travel, a luxury outfitter that coordinates private jet trips. They've just launched a private itinerary — designed for quarantine pods of four to 12 guests — that hits many of the most in-demand national parks, including Bryce Canyon, Grand Teton, and Zion, by private Citation CJ3 or Hawker 800XP jet. These fully customizable trips will have adventurers tracking wolves in Yellowstone, hiking past hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, standup paddleboarding on Lake Powell, or whatever else your crew wants to do. And while TCS can't promise you won't see another soul along the way, they can get you into some of the most exclusive hotels in the American West, including Amangani, Amangiri, and Sage Lodge. —Paul Brady

48. Washington, D.C.

The push and pull between past and present is the great drama of Washington, D.C. Once you know to look, you'll see it everywhere. The newly renamed Black Lives Matter Plaza — its great yellow block letters both immediately recognizable and extremely photogenic — abuts Lafayette Square, in front of the White House, which once was an open-air slave market. The Smithsonian Institution marks its 175th anniversary with its first national Latino gallery on the National Mall : a new exhibition space to open inside the National Museum of American History. The new Kimpton Banneker Hotel , just north of Scott Circle, is named after the city's great polymath, Benjamin, the 18th-century free black writer and astronomer who surveyed the District's boundaries. And making his debut at the National Zoo is Xiao Qi Ji ("Little Miracle"), a panda cub whose presence can be traced back to Nixon's 1972 trip to China. But the pandemic-age inauguration of a new president in January will doubtless be the city's biggest milestone — unless this is the year D.C. finally becomes a state. —Molly McArdle

49. White Sands, New Mexico

Nothing is as it seems in White Sands , the 176,000-acre swath of New Mexico desert that was first established as a national monument in 1933. From afar, the gypsum dunes —the world's largest such expanse — look as sterile and sun-scorched as the surface of a distant planet. Up close, the luxuriously cool sand teems with life. Bleached earless lizards, Apache pocket mice, and sand wolf spiders — all mostly white, to blend in with their surroundings — skitter across the dunes. At first, there's no evidence of humankind, but investigate the right spot and you'll find fossilized footprints overlaid by mammoth and giant-sloth tracks. Last year's redesignation as a national park expanded the protected region's scope by 2,030 acres, and, more importantly, increased its visibility to travelers. Researchers estimate that the change in status could contribute $7 million in spending, and 100 jobs, to the local economy. — Kieran Dahl

50. Wyoming

No one could have dreamed up a better marketing plan for Wyoming than social distancing. The country's least-populated state has only six people per square mile, meaning it's not only easy, but natural to stay safely apart. Yellowstone and Grand Teton have both seen huge spikes in visitation (credit "Yellowstone" binges), but don't overlook Wyoming's 12 state parks . A new 4-mile section was recently added to the famous Continental Divide Trail, too. Not so good with a compass? Go deeper into the park (without getting lost) with new itineraries from ToursByLocals, including a full-day adventure in Grand Teton National park, or book the new winter experience with wolves from Scott Dunn. In Casper, College National Finals Rodeo (the Rose Bowl of the sport) resumes in June after a year off, and the world's largest outdoor rodeo, Cheyenne Frontier Days , celebrates its 125th anniversary in July 2021. Hit the pancake breakfast to feel like you really belong. In south central Wyoming, the Relais & Chateaux Magee Homestead reopens to leisure travelers and relaunches its popular culinary events. And in Jackson, the first hotel on the historic town square, the 100-room Cloudveil , opens in spring with a huge rooftop terrace overlooking Snow King Mountain. —Kelsey Ogletree

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50 Places to Visit in the USA That Must Be on Your Bucket List

Love the beach? The desert? The mountains? Don't sweat it — we have you covered!

Trying to list all of the best places to vacation across the U.S. is a bit of a fool’s errand — there are just too many! What we can do, though, is compile the ultimate travel bucket list. Read on and mark down some of the top sites and cities across the country that you want to see at least once.

Key Largo — Florida

Best for Oceanic Exploration

There are plenty of beach destinations to choose from in Florida, but Key Largo is the place for people looking to leave the sand and enjoy everything the ocean has to offer. With offerings like the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , visitors are encouraged to throw on a mask and have an adventure below the surface.

Where to Stay: Playa Largo Resort & Spa

New Hope — Pennsylvania

Best for Shopping Small

If your ideal escape involves spending a day popping in and out of shops along Main street, head to New Hope. The town has a ton of charming independently owned businesses and art galleries, so save some space in your luggage for some souvenirs. After you've picked up some gifts for yourself, grab a seat and a drink at The Pour House at The New Hope Winery or Great Barn Brewery .

Where to Stay: River House at Odette's

Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

Best for Views

It's no wonder why the Grand Canyon has been topping bucket lists for travel junkies and families alike for so many years. Whether you're after a challenging hike or have more interest in some zen stargazing , there are several access points with varying levels of hiking intensity, so you (and every member of your travel group) can get the best views.

Where to Stay: South Rim , Phantom Ranch

Los Angeles — California

Best for Laid-Back Luxury

Spend your days hanging loose on Venice Beach and your nights indulging in swanky nightlife spots on Hollywood Boulevard. From visiting Runyon Canyon or shopping on Rodeo Drive to finding your favorite actor's hand prints pressed into the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame , there are a variety of daytime activities to keep you busy.

Where to Stay: Four Seasons Hotel at Beverly Hills , Omni Los Angeles

Las Vegas — Nevada

Best for Nightlife

What happens in Vegas … well, you know the saying. Sure, you can get as naughty as you want in Sin City, but you just might be too busy seeing shows, such as Cirque du Soleil's O , dining in trendy restaurants , shopping in luxury arcades, gambling in casinos , and dancing in swanky clubs to do any permanent damage.

Where to Stay: Bellagio Las Vegas , Paris Las Vegas

Santa Fe — New Mexico

Best for Art Aficionados

Pull a Georgia O'Keeffe and lose yourself in Santa Fe's otherworldly landscapes. Check out local artists' work in the many galleries along Canyon Road , and see O'Keeffe's famous animal skull paintings at her eponymous museum — then ponder all of this artistic magnificence over margaritas and a big bowl of guac and chips.

Where to Stay: La Fonda on the Plaza , Inn and Spa at Loretto

Nantucket — Massachusetts

Best for the Laid-Back Island Life

As soon as you step off the ferry, you'll start to decompress on this postcard-perfect island off the coast of Cape Cod . It ticks all the island getaway boxes: gorgeous beaches, sweet gray-shingled cottages, and historic lighthouses. Nantucket also has a super cool Whaling Museum , and plenty of places for a lobster roll.

Where to Stay: 21 Broad , The Nantucket Hotel

Sedona — Arizona

Best for Desert Scenery

You'll never get over marveling at the beauty of the Red Rocks of Sedona — they're that awe-inspiring. Get up-close and personal with these rust-hued mesas and buttes via Jeep tour , then head to one of Sedona's vortexes to soak up some positive vibes. (Using healing crystals and getting an aura photo is optional.)

Where to Stay: Hilton Sedona Resort at Red Rock , L'Auberge de Sedona

More: Best 360 Cameras for Snapping Remarkable Sunsets

Chicago — Illinois

Best for a Big City Getaway

Sure, it could always be New York — but don't dismiss the Second City . Incredible architecture (the skyscraper was born here), world-class museums (Did you know the famed American Gothic painting is in the Art Institute of Chicago ?), deep-dish pizza, and the Cubbies make Chi-Town one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Where to Stay: Ace Hotel Chicago , Hilton Chicago

Big Sur — California

Best for a Scenic Drive

If you've seen HBO’s Big Little Lies , you've no doubt been blown away by the gorgeous cliff-hugging backdrops, especially around Bixby Bridge, the iconic 280-foot-high span on the Pacific Coast Highway. This jaw-dropping stretch from Carmel to the boho hangout of Big Sur is surely one of the world's greatest scenic drives .

Where to Stay: Portola Hotel & Spa , Comfort Inn Carmel-by-the-Sea

Kansas City — Missouri

Best for Barbecue

Kansas City is world-famous for its finger-lickin'-good barbecue, and a few standouts include Gates Bar-B-Q , featuring mouthwatering beef brisket, Q39 , from national barbecue champ Rob Magee, and, just across the state line in Kansas, Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que , with ribs, pulled pork, and smoked chicken on the menu.

Where to Stay: Hotel Phillips Kansas City , Ambassador Hotel Kansas City

Jackson — Wyoming

Best for Outdoor Adventures

This rugged destination in the Teton Mountains is all about being in the great outdoors. Summer brings hiking, horseback riding, and river rafting; come wintertime, there's world-class skiing at one of the country's top ski resorts . Plus, there are plenty of authentic Western-style bars where you just might mingle with real cowboys.

Where to Stay: The Wort Hotel , Hotel Terra Jackson Hole

Natchez - Mississippi

Best for Touring Antebellum Homes

The city of Natchez, a former trading post on the Mississippi River, is known for its many antebellum mansions, including Brandon Hall Plantation , now functioning as a charming inn with canopied beds, antique furnishings, and landscaped grounds. Other historic homes worth a visit include Longwood, Dunleith, and Auburn.

Where to Stay: Natchez Grand Hotel , Brandon Hall Plantation

Washington, D.C.

Best for Free Museums

Can we talk about D.C. without getting political? Sure we can, especially when there's so much to say about its free Smithsonian museums.

See Dorothy's ruby slippers at the National Museum of American History , a space shuttle at the National Air & Space Museum , and Nat Turner's Bible at the National Museum of African American History & Culture .

Where to Stay: Kimpton Hotel Palomar , Marriott Marquis Washington, DC

Napa Valley — California

Best for Wine Lovers

There's a lot to love about Napa Valley. It's just an hour's drive from San Francisco , there are hundreds of world-class wineries to stop in for a tasting (A pinot noir on the deck overlooking vast vineyards? Yes, please!), and there are plenty of gourmet restaurants, including Thomas Keller's famed French Laundry .

Where to Stay: Marriott Napa Valley Hotel & Spa , The Westin Verasa Napa

Indianapolis — Indiana

Best for the Whole Family

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is one of the best kids' museums in the USA — just try to get them to stop talking about the massive dinosaur "attacking" the building's facade. Indy also has a great zoo and an IMAX theater, and each May, the Indy 500 takes place. Plus, there's a growing farm-to-table foodie scene.

Where to Stay: Hilton Indianapolis Hotel & Suites , Conrad Indianapolis

Austin – Texas

Best for Fests

As if tasty barbecue and Tex-Mex food weren't enough of a draw, Austin hosts several major festivals throughout the year that are worth planning a trip for. Both South by Southwest (in March) and Austin City Limits (in October) make the city an ideal getaway for people who enjoy having a jam-packed itinerary when they travel.

If you can't make it those months, there are still plenty of ways to occupy your time while you're in town.

Where to Stay: Hotel Van Zandt , The Line Hotel

Read More: These Are the Most Beautiful Places in the World

Best for Exotic Beaches

You can't mention the best places to visit in the USA and not show the Aloha State some love, especially its beaches. From the black sand of Punaluu, to the green (yes, green!) sand of Papakolea Beach (both on the Big Island), to the great snorkeling at Maui's Makua Beach, Hawaii lives up to its billing.

Where to Stay: Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa , Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort

Minneapolis — Minnesota

Best for Midwestern Museums

Minneapolis is full of fab museums, including the Walker Art Center , featuring works from Jasper Johns and Chuck Close, and the recently renovated Minneapolis Sculpture Garden , known for its famous "Spoonbridge and Cherry" sculpture. The Frank Gehry-designed Weisman Art Museum and the Mill City Museum are others to keep in mind, too.

Where to Stay: Hewing Hotel , The Westin Minneapolis

New York City — New York

Best for Theater Lovers

Even if you can't get tickets to Hamilton , you won't be lacking for choice when it comes to top-notch theater in NYC . Catch Broadway shows like Tony Award winners Dear Evan Hansen and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child , and there are plenty of off-Broadway and off-off Broadway shows, plus, warm weather brings the Public Theater's Shakespeare in the Park.

Where to Stay: Soho Grand Hotel , W New York - Times Square

Jill is the former travel editor at BestProducts.com, showing her expertise on everything from the Best Rooftop Bars in NYC to the 30 Most Beautiful Cities in the World;  the NYC native has previously worked at Travel & Leisure and has written articles for The New York Times , InStyle, Huffington Post , and Fodors . Recent trips have included the Bahamas and Natchez, and Patagonia and Vietnam are high on the bucket list. Though she’ll deny it, she is kind of obsessed with buying refrigerator magnets from the places she visits.

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The 20 Best Places to Travel in 2021

Here's where we're headed—in the United States and abroad—once travel gets the green light.

So what does 2021 hold? Hope. Rather than qualifying the following destinations as must-sees-now, we’ve put together a list of destinations we hope to visit—or revisit—this coming year, or maybe the next, as we reemerge from our chrysalis, soon ready to fly. You’ll notice that much of our list is based in the United States, given that much of air travel will be determined by each country’s individual rules and reopenings. After landing on our top places to visit domestically, we turn our attention abroad. From our research, bucket lists, and ears to the ground, the following destinations are poised to rise from the ashes from the dumpster fire that has been this year. From classic spots worth a pair of fresh eyes to countries championing social and environmental justice, here’s our list of where we hope to go in 2021—and where we hope you’ll plan to visit too.

1. Staying Home

We know, it’s a bit of a buzzkill to start a dream-stoking list with a plea to stay home, but hear us out: We’re desperate to travel as much as you are, and with the end of the pandemic within reach, we have to hunker down only for a few more months (okay, maybe around six or seven) and do our part so that we keep our high-risk neighbors, our friends and families, and ourselves safe. In the meantime, there are gift cards to buy to help buoy our favorite restaurants through prolonged closures and hotel bonds to purchase to ensure that our favorite getaways will be ready to welcome us once global travel clicks back on. Order a crate of wine from your favorite vineyard (see Napa, below) and relax; we’re almost there.

Domestic Destinations

We’ve split our list into domestic and international destinations, because realistically, we’ll be mostly relegated to stateside destinations—at least for the first half of the year. but once we get the go-ahead for international travel (and we begin to revenge-travel to make up for last year’s dry spell), it’s still worth keeping these destinations high on your to-go roster., 2. utah's rocky mountains.

Don’t give up on your ski season aspirations just yet. You may have to forfeit the traditional après-ski scene, but it’s still worth hitting the mountain for some socially distant downhill-ing. Salt Lake City’s newly renovated international airport is the gateway to no less than 11 resorts, and driving is always an option as well, making these slopes the most viable pick in America for both easy access and a breadth of alpine experiences. Powder Mountain and Park City Mountain each claim to be the biggest ski resort in the country, so wide open spaces won’t be an issue should you want to slalom mask-free. If you have your quarantining bubble in tow, try smaller Snowbasin , where six luxury day lodges can be reserved for full-service gourmet dining and drinking; it’s as though you’re the only ones on the mountain. Utah’s superior snowfall means that you’re likely to sneak in some serious powder through all of April at places like Alta if you’re hesitant to venture out now.

3. Napa & Sonoma, California

The constant presence of COVID in the news cycle partially blotted out the coverage of Northern California’s devastating wildfires earlier this year—a disaster that claimed the livelihoods of tons of individuals, especially in Napa and Sonoma where raging flames engulfed entire townships, institutional inns and restaurants, and prize-winning vineyards. It’ll take a significant amount of time to rebuild, but the new Four Seasons Napa Valley —wine country’s first resort on a working winery, set to open in 2021—is a harbinger of the good things to come as the area reestablishes itself as the country’s preeminent wine region.

4. The Great Lakes

Wide expanses of nothingness were the most ordered item on the travel menu last summer, filling the empty canyons and mountains of the American West with hordes of tourists from both coasts. They didn’t get the memo, however, that the Great Lakes offer serious amounts of solitude too. The boundary waters separating Canada and the United States promise vistas that rival the rocky outcrops of New England and the long strands of uninterrupted sand in California. Two national parks—Voyageurs in Minnesota and Isle Royale in Michigan—both feel like final frontiers, where campers can pitch their backcountry tents in the hushed acreages of pine and roving moose. For something more decidedly upmarket, try Wisconsin, where Wild Rice Retreat will open as a dedicated center for arts and wellness in March near the town of Bayfield, the gateway to the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. Go full five-star further south in Kohler, a town pulled straight off the pages of a Bavarian fairy tale; the lavish American Club comes complete with the region’s most swanked-out spa (think: Kohler, the luxury bath amenities manufacturer) and four tricked-out cabins.

5. New Mexico

When COVID came crashing down, Marcia Gordon, cofounder of African safari planner Extraordinary Journeys , moved back to her native Santa Fe and spun her business toward her home state, selling safari-style tours there instead. Turns out, New Mexico's untamed expanses can be as captivating to the snap of the camera as the Serengeti. Beyond the herds of wild bison, the Land of Enchantment is also an important center for Indigenous life that long predates western settlement. Protected under a UNESCO mandate, many pueblo dwellings offer compelling insight into Mesoamerican traditions and design, much of which is still thriving today. Use Auberge Resorts Collection’s new Bishop’s Lodge , just outside Santa Fe, as your base to explore the vibrant City Different aboriginal art scene and beyond.

6. Miami, Florida

Florida’s soaring real estate prices are a testament to the fact that the state has seen an astonishing influx of newly minted citizens since the start of COVID—most from New York, escaping their cramped conditions to stay at home with plenty of private, sun-filled outdoor space instead. And perhaps most of them are here to stay, especially in Miami, which has shed its Golden Girls reputation for a more youthful, switched-on vibe as the new hotbed of the country’s arts scene and the crucible of Latin cultures. Weekenders needn’t look further than the Four Seasons Surfside , which has, in only three years, established itself as one of the best properties in the portfolio, rivaling its sister resorts in Italy and Asia. Like New York, Miami has a hotel for any and every traveler, and hot spots like Faena , The Miami Beach Edition , 1 Hotel South Beach , and the newly launched Life House Hotels ’ four (yes, four) boutique properties in the city stand out.

7. New York

Eagle eyes may notice that New York was one of our picks for 2020 as well; the City That Never Sleeps deserves another plug. More than half of the city’s restaurants could be gone forever by the time indoor dining resumes in earnest, and there are still several months to go before the lights of Broadway will flicker back on, but—if anything—New Yorkers are incredibly resilient, and we have no doubt that Gotham’s lively pulse will course down its concrete arteries again, ASAP. Several new hotels are primed to host the expected onslaught of weekenders once everything resumes. First, there’s Six Senses , trying its hand at its first North American property with an ambitious tower of suites and a rambling spa overlooking the High Line. And then there’s Aman , trying out not only its first urban property in America but offering its first portfolio of private residences when it swings open the doors to a freshly renovated Crown Building in Midtown. Also worth a mention is Life House’s new property in Bushwick , which will better diversify North Brooklyn’s boutique hotel offerings beyond Williamsburg.

Follow the almost-complete Empire State Trail out of the city; the 750-mile route—America’s longest state trail—will wind its way all the way up to the Canadian border, passing some of the best overnight options when you need a break from the Big Smoke, like Kenoza Hall in Sullivan County, Hasbrouck House in Stone Ridge, and the hotly anticipated Aurum , set to up the Catskills’ wellness quotient in late 2021 with dedicated Roman-themed baths and 36 luxurious rooms.

8. Denver, Colorado

According to Evolve Vacation Rental , Denver has seen a 200 percent increase in booking queries—more than any other American city—for the coming year versus 2020, perhaps due to the destination’s inextricable link with its surrounding nature as travelers tempt their toes back into the urban environment after a year of quiet. Plus, Colorado’s capital is doubling down on its green initiatives, with ambitious plans to cloak rooftops and parking lots in “urban gardens,” to add 125 miles of bike lanes by 2023, and to have the city running on completely renewable electricity by the end of the decade. A spate of new hotels is slated to open in 2021, including Vib , Catbird , Rossonian , and The Rally . The aforementioned high-design yet quaint boutique behemoth Life House opened its doors in the Lower Highlands in late October, and at the end of the year, the city will swing the doors of the Denver Art Museum back open after an ambitious $150 million renovation.

9. … And the Road Trips You Missed Last Summer

Travel pundits were quick to anoint 2020 the Year of the Road Trip—a lemons-to-lemonade pivot that gave us some semblance of control over our coveted vacations. But the expected shift back to travel normalcy by late 2021 shouldn’t relegate overland drives to last year; there are plenty of American destinations still worth stringing together, especially the country’s smaller cities that missed out on tourism traffic as everyone headed out into the wilderness.

Try Indy to Cincy: Check out Indianapolis’s new Bottleworks District, a redeveloped section of downtown streets and warehouses that were once a part of the city’s Coca-Cola factory. Then, head through Louisville and Lexington to explore Kentucky’s thriving equestrian culture, not to mention the best bourbon distilleries in the world. Finally, hit up Cincinnati, where a new West End soccer stadium will continue to reinvigorate the downtown and the adjacent Over-the-Rhine neighborhood—so painfully cool it gives the best corners of Brooklyn runs for their money.

Or, go from Nashville to Asheville: Stop along the way in the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood , or Chattanooga, where Life House is completing the transformation of an old train terminal into a posh hotel. You’ve likely noticed our affinity for the newly minted hotel group, but that’s simply because it has managed to turn a bleak year in hospitality into a new model that reinvigorates small neighborhoods with high-design renovations of landmark homes, offering the well-heeled a place to rest their heads without the bustle and constant contact of a large, five-star resort. Black Tomato suggests packaging the entire endeavor with a stay at Blackberry Farm or Blackberry Mountain , and an exclusive gallery tour and music experience in the ’Noog.

International Destinations

The big question on everyone’s mind is: when can we travel abroad again and, once we do, how will trips change in the latter part of 2021 surely everyone will be keen to make up for lost time, and crowds will no doubt swell—our one wish, if we’ve learned anything from this year, is that there’s something special about enjoying a place slowly. our international picks for 2021 are a mix of oldies but goodies, classic bucket list adventures, and the perfect destinations for exactly that: a more mindful approach to travel, during which visitors can deeply engage rather than simply be a tourist for a handful of days., 10. the maritime provinces, canada.

Though New Zealand made headlines at it impressively repelled the threat of COVID, our northern neighbors were quietly combating the virus’s onslaught with similar success, especially in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, where Newfoundland, also an island, was able to easily shutter itself away from the world.

Often overlooked for farther lands, the Maritimes offers travelers much of what they’d expect to find along the fjords of Norway or pastures of Ireland, but much closer to home and for a fraction of the price. Halifax, Nova Scotia’s capital, is getting its first luxury property in 2021; the Muir hotel will help lend the city’s new Queen’s Marque district its upmarket flair. Connect the dots with Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland, the region’s first high-end stay where you can watch icebergs float down from Greenland in the early summer and whales puff through the lonely harbors.

Perhaps the best part of the region is its unflagging dedication to all things small-batch, which helps ensure that even when the tourism machine roars back on, visitors will still have the opportunity to indulge in the area’s finest attractions without the threat of crowds.

11. The Caribbean

To say it’s been a lousy few years for the Caribbean would be an understatement. The wind up to the region’s high seasons has been plagued with, well, plague—first Zika and now COVID, not to mention the surge in hurricanes that has devastated several of the islands over the last few years. St. Barts will complete its post-storm transformation in the summer when Le Guanahani , the island’s largest hotel, reopens as a Rosewood property. In the meantime, Turks and Caicos has emerged during the pandemic as a legitimate contender for the vacationing elite, with some of the best, socially distant villas in the area, and a dreamy renovation of Amanyara ’s legendary resort pavilions. Its biggest drawcard? The island chain is only a single, easy flight from the continental U.S., while St. Barts and other perennial faves, like Anguilla, are two—albeit made easier by the efficiency and convenience of shuttle airline Tradewind .

St. Lucia , also a direct flight from the States, deserves an honorable mention for its diligence in controlling COVID. The island is almost fully dependent on tourism and has struck a commendable balance between allowing travelers in while nullifying spread of the virus. Opt for a stay at Sugar Beach , the island's true hotel gem. Or lay your head at Jade Mountain , most famous for being the destination of many a celebrity honeymoon and designed with distance and airy spaces in mind—all of the modernist suites have a wall open to nature allowing island breezes to flow directly in.

For travelers needing to push an immediate eject button, there’s the island of Mustique in the Grenadines, which, since the start of the pandemic, has been relatively COVID-free. After a pre-departure swab and a test upon arrival, it’ll be as though you’ve leapt far into the future, where house parties are the norm. Bed down at The Cotton House , the island’s only hotel, set among the dozens of privately owned villas.

12. Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

Free of the predictability of Tulum and the overcrowded beaches of Cancun, the long strand of quiet sand and seaside villages that stretches north of Puerto Vallarta has a more grounded relationship with its environment and ancestry, rising up organically over time and embracing a genuine, laid-back feel. Both the hippie surf town of Sayulita and the village of Mexcaltitan have been designated and preserved as Pueblos Magicos by the government, enshrining their cultural significance. And as the region grows its international attention, so, too, have the world’s luxury hotel brands responded in kind, with the newly opened One&Only Mandarina joining the likes of the Four Seasons , St. Regis , Conrad , and W hotels—Ritz-Carlton plans to open one of its acclaimed Reserve properties here in 2022 as well.

13. Costa Rica

Long the tourism pioneer in Central America, Costa Rica has firmly established itself as one of the world’s great eco-tourism hubs. It’s now leveraging its trailblazing attitude to be the first in the region to welcome tourists back with an open-door entry policy bolstered by a proficient network of hospitals on the ground. Pura Vida stalwarts Cayuga Collection and Nayara have been leading the charge, featuring their get-away-from-it-all properties, like Kura Boutique Hotel ’s jungle villas and Nayara Tented Camp, each adorned with a private plunge pool. Cielo Lodge , opening in January, and Hacienda AltaGracia in the Auberge Resorts Collection round out the long-stay circuit. If you’re after more of a beach getaway with a little something extra, the opening of the Four Seasons Residences Prieta Bay at Four Seasons Papagayo ushered in resort vibes—with private, luxury rental-style bookings—to a destination more known for jungle adventure and glamping; we’re eager for the new Six Senses Papagayo to swing open its doors next year, adding another layer of luxury to the area.

This year felt like it was sponsored by Barilla and Ragu as we holed up in our homes and quickly wearied of baking bread. It’s made us miss Italy even more than usual, especially toward the start of the pandemic when it became the epicenter of Europe’s spread. In 2021, we’re eager to employ a bit of 2020’s distancing credo and spread ourselves out across the boot-shaped country, rather than clustering in its usual touristy haunts. Luxury travel planner Jack Ezon of Embark Beyond is already booking clients into the brand-new Castello di Reschio , which will redefine Umbria, and Casa di Langa , a new farm-to-table resort in truffle-filled Piemonte; and in Sicily, stay tuned for the opening of the Four Seasons Taormina at San Domenico Palace and the new Rocco Forte Hotel, Villa Igiea .

15. Saudi Arabia

The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia is ready to turn his kingdom into a go-to destination for luxury travelers, touting world-class hotels and a slew of archaeological wonders as oil becomes obsolete. And while this next-gen leap comes with a more modern and globalized point of view, the Middle Eastern nation has only begun to scratch the surface when it comes to its greatly lagging gender, sex, religious, and racial equality. The release of tourist visas (instead of pilgrim visas) was hotly anticipated before COVID, however, the extended pause on travel has allowed the country to further refine its offerings, like AlULA, its most significant archaeological treasure, which is poised to become the next Petra. Acclaimed hotel group Aman is launching its sister brand Janu —a more affordable, wellness-focused concept—with four international properties, one of which will be next to the coveted ruins. Book a guided tour with Wild Frontiers for a balanced perspective on this rapidly evolving destination, which includes stops in the ultra-modern cities of Riyadh and Jeddah—both come complete with the same high-end touchstones found in Doha or Dubai.

16. Tanzania

As premier safari operator Singita makes a concerted effort to strip away the trappings of colonial Britain embedded in its decor, so, too, is there an industry-wide attempt to break some of the vestigial bonds that have long kept the area’s wealth in specific hands. Teresa Sullivan of Mango Safaris cites Nomad Tanzania ’s microloans project—which enables guides to purchase their own vehicles outright—as one of the most commendable steps in this direction. Nnko & Smith , a partnership between American safari operator Deeper Africa and a local Tanzanian guiding team, is also setting a new standard of putting tourism dollars directly in the hands of Africans; its first project is a brand-new route up to the top of Kilimanjaro that steers hikers clear of the usual crowds. Sullivan also notes that according to insider intel, only a few mobile camps will be set up in the Serengeti National Park during birthing season of the wildebeest migration. Act fast though: There’s still time to book one of the few remaining beds and be virtually alone as the hordes of animals drop their young.

17. Bangkok, Thailand

Like Italy is to Europe, so, too, is there something wonderfully classic about Thailand’s hospitality—the perfect introduction to exploring Asia that has long captivated our imagination. The kingdom has announced visas and exemptions available to U.S. travelers for long-term stays of up to 90 days, and when its borders reopen, we’re heading straight to Bangkok, where the Capella Bangkok and the Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya are anchoring a new riverside district. After eating our way through the city’s signature street food, we’ll hit up the newest picks on Michelin’s 2021 dining list , which showcases Bangkok’s cosmopolitan scene.

18. Explore Southeast Asia

Beyond Thailand, the rest of Southeast Asia has also done incredibly well (relative to our corner of the world) in reducing the devastating spread of the coronavirus, even returning to semblances of normalcy while borders have been closed. Smiling Albino , known in the region for beating untrodden trails through some of the most compelling yet overlooked destinations in the region, has refreshed its itineraries in Vietnam, where Zannier Hotels has just opened its newest property, Bai San Ho , on the beaches of Phu Yen Province.

Meanwhile, in Malaysia, InsideAsia Tours has developed several itineraries that explore the peninsular provinces (think: where the characters of Crazy Rich Asians and the chic men and women who inspired them go on holiday), as well as far-flung Borneo, where the mystical tribes of Sarawak meet the orangutan-filled primordial jungles of Sabah. The recent opening of One&Only Desaru Coast is the first of three new luxury stays that are set to elevate the county's five-star offerings: The Park Hyatt and Conrad —both in capital city Kuala Lumpur—will debut in 2021.

19. Australia

As the call of Black Lives Matter resonated throughout the world, the movement saw significant groundswell in Australia, as Aboriginal communities campaigned to reestablish their rightful claim to the island continent. In the last few years, tenets of Indigenous life have begun to emerge in mainstream conversations—restaurants are using local ingredients, or “bush tucker,” to enhance their recipes; the contemporary art scene has readily embraced the output from Aboriginal artists; and even the travel industry has become a funnel, delivering funds to communities in need through cultural exchange. The four-day Wukalina Walk is a thoroughly upmarket trek along Tasmania’s lichen-red Bay of Fires, where guests can gain invaluable insight into local lore and traditions. Up in Queensland, Intrepid Travel offers a multiday tour of the hallowed Daintree tropical forest, where guests can take an Aboriginal painting class and listen to ancient creation myths. And in Western Australia, enjoy a day out in Francois Peron National Park—where the red sands of Uluru meet the turquoise sea—with Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures .

20. Scotland

We have the U.K. on the brain—especially after bingeing Bridgerton and The Crown —and Scotland is the perfect way to triangulate old-world glamor with countryside estates and otherworldly landscapes. Take the Royal Scotsman , Belmond’s first luxury train route set to return to service through remote lochs and fjords, or check in to the Cameron House on Loch Lomond, which will reopen in April after a sensitive restoration. Edinburgh’s East End gets a boost with the unveiling of the new St James Quarter, as Red Carnation opens its first Scottish property, 100 Princes Street , across town. Direct flights reboot in the spring, when flyers will be reminded that a flight from the American Northeast is the same length as a cross-country haul.

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Top 10 US Destinations You Need to Visit in 2021

Published by taylor trahan on october 27, 2020 october 27, 2020.

With international travel still mostly at a standstill, if you’re looking to scratch your wanderlust itch, it’s a great time to check some cities off your US bucket list. No matter how much you’ve traveled in the US, there’s always something more to see! From big cities like New York and LA to outdoor adventures in places like Colorado or Miami, there’s no shortage of incredible US destinations for every traveler. Just make sure you follow all local rules regarding quarantine and testing before and during your visit! Here’s our top 10 US destinations to plan a trip to this year. 

1. New York 

How could this list be complete without a trip to New York ? Despite being a bit quieter than usual, New York is still one of the major bucket-list US destinations and has plenty to see. The city is endlessly walkable and if your feet get tired, you can also hop on the subway. It also has a lot of socially-distant places to explore. Wander around Central Park, visit the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty and enjoy some of NYC’s best street food. No visit to the Big Apple is complete without at least a few slices of true New York pizza! Several NYC museums have also reopened, including the famous Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

Current best deal: $40* one-way from Chicago (average flight price: $270* roundtrip—and less if you’re flying from the East Coast)

Best Places to Stay in New York

If it’s your first trip to New York and you want to be in the heart of all the action, consider staying in Midtown. For travelers on a budget, Soho and the East Village are hip, youthful neighborhoods. They’re also a bit cheaper and still super easy to get to all the major things to do in New York. 

Don’t rent a car! Parking and driving in NYC can be insane (and expensive!). Plan on walking, taking public transportation and taking the occasional Uber instead. 

Can I travel to New York during covid?

If you’re traveling from a state that’s not on New York’s safe list, you must quarantine for two weeks upon arrival. Currently, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut, Oregon, Washington, Arizona and Hawaii are exempt from this requirement. (This is subject to change at any time, be sure to check New York’s official travel requirements to be sure.) However, we always recommend travelers get tested before traveling! When in New York, be sure to always wear a mask in public areas and maintain social distancing. 

2. Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the best US destinations, pandemic or not. Since the weather stays in the 70s-80s all year long, it’s a very outdoor city, perfect for social distancing! From Chinatown and Koreatown to Olvera Street and Hollywood Boulevard, there’s a LOT to see and experience! For starters, grab some tacos from a taco truck for some on-the-go street food. Then head to one of the many beaches (Santa Monica, Newport and San Clemente are some of our favorites) and plan a few hikes. Hiking to the Hollywood sign is an LA bucket-list must! Many of the museums are still closed currently, but you can still explore downtown and some of LA’s unique architecture, like the Getty, the Walt Disney concert hall, the LA Central Library and more. 

Current best deal: $70* one-way from New York (average flight price: $260* roundtrip—and less if you’re flying from the West Coast)

Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles

For being close to the city and still getting some budget accommodation, we love neighborhoods like Silver Lake and Echo Park. Los Angeles is a sprawling city with plenty of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, and options for any budget! 

If you want to be able to travel around, renting a car might be your best bet. Downtown LA has public transit—a great budget option!—but depending on where you’re staying, it might not be the most convenient.  

Can I travel to Los Angeles during covid?

There’s no domestic travel restrictions or quarantine requirements for traveling to Los Angeles. However, we recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, and many airlines require it. While in Los Angeles, you’ll need to be sure to always wear a mask in public areas and maintain social distancing. Since Los Angeles has plenty of outdoor spaces and good weather, it’s a great destination for low-covid-risk activities and social distancing. 

3. Chicago 

Chicago is often ranked as the best big city in America, so if it’s not on your bucket list yet, it’s definitely time to add it. Whether you want to explore a beautiful city with a slice of deep-dish pizza or sit down for some incredible food and experience some of the best in museums and the arts, Chicago has plenty to offer.

There’s plenty to do while social distancing too. Go kayaking on the Chicago River, enjoy selfies with the bean at Millennium Park or take in the views from Skywalk Chicago. Several of Chicago’s best museums (looking at you, Art Institute of Chicago, and Museum of Science and Industry) are open too, with advance tickets. Plenty of music venues and theatres are also open for outdoor performances and socially-distanced, outdoor concerts. In short: plenty to do and explore, pandemic or not!

Current best deal: $64* roundtrip from Dallas (average flight price: $250* roundtrip)

Best Places to Stay in Chicago

Chicago has lots of great areas to stay in, with good hotels, hostels, Airbnbs and the like all over the city. The Loop (aka Central Downtown Chicago) and River North (aka the Magnificent Mile) are both great areas to stay at if you want to be at the heart of the city where all the activity is. Lincoln Park and Wicker Park are both great areas if you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy a hip, youthful scene.

Chicago weather is famously unpredictable and cold in the winter months—plan accordingly! This doesn’t mean you should never plan a trip to Chicago in the winter, but it does mean you should pack your warmest winter gear. You’ll also want to plan some of Chicago’s best winter activities. Our favorites include ice skating, indoor museums, the (very tropical) Garfield Park Conservatory or seeing the holiday lights at Lincoln Park Zoo. 

Can I travel to Chicago during covid?

For travelers coming from Chicago’s list of higher-risk states, you must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Check the list of higher-risk states before traveling. Regardless of where you’re traveling from, we recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, and many airlines require it. While you’ll need to wear a mask and observe social distancing, many attractions are reopening. You can find a handy list of what’s open in Chicago to help you plan your trip.

Boston is a favorite destination among students, and it’s not hard to see why! The hip, energetic city offers a great mix of being both compact and easy to explore while also having plenty to do for different kinds of travelers. With dozens of historical landmarks, delicious restaurants, shopping and outdoor spaces, there’s lots to do, indoors or out. Walk the Freedom Trail outside to hit some of Boston’s best landmarks. Then head to the North End for some of the best Italian food and cannoli’s (plus, plenty of outdoor dining!). If the weather’s nice, you can enjoy some time outdoors in the Boston Common or on the Esplanade along the Charles River. 

Current best deal: $40* roundtrip from Orlando (average flight price: $280* roundtrip—less if you’re coming from the East Coast)

Best Places to Stay in Boston

Boston is a compact city, so staying downtown will make it super easy to explore on foot or by subway. Stay in downtown Boston, near Back Bay or Fenway. You can also stay a bit outside of the city, in Brookline or Cambridge for more budget options. Between hostels, hotels and Airbnbs, you’ll be sure to find something to suit your budget. 

Bring your walking shoes! Boston is very walkable, so a good pair of walking shoes will help you get around on a budget and see the best of the city. Visit during late fall for the best colors. Also, don’t rent a car unless you’re planning on getting out of the city. 

Can I travel to Boston during covid?

We recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, and many airlines require it. For travelers coming from Boston’s list of higher-risk states, you must quarantine for 14 days upon arrival or provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72-hours before arriving. You’ll also need to fill out the state’s travel form. Travelers from California, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Vermont and Washington are currently exempt. Although this is subject to change at any time—check the list of low-risk states before traveling. 

Of course, you’ll need to wear a mask in public areas and maintain social distancing during your stay as well. Thankfully, there’s plenty of ways to do so in Boston. 

5. San Francisco 

If San Francisco isn’t on your bucket list yet, what are you doing? Not only is it an incredible city to explore in its own right, it’s a great starting place for a California road trip down the coast or to Yosemite National Park. While you’re in SF, make sure you hit some of the most scenic landmarks. Our must-sees? The Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Pier 39, Lombard Street and Coit Tower. Head to Union Square or the Ferry Building for some amazing food. Don’t forget to try the local clam chowder, preferably in a bread bowl. And of course, a stop at the beach is a must. Ocean Beach is one of our favorites, especially for spectacular sunsets. 

Current best deal: $40* roundtrip from Denver (average flight price: $255* roundtrip)

Best Places to Stay in San Francisco

If you’re committed to staying within the city, downtown SF (aka Nob Hill and Union Square areas) are among the best places to stay within San Francisco. If you’re on a budget, the Marina District or North Beach are two good places to stay. San Francisco is pretty compact, so if you have a car, you can save more by staying outside of the main city. Just be sure to consider all-day parking costs in the city, which can be expensive. 

If you’re planning on mostly staying within the San Francisco city area, you don’t need to rent a car: grab a bike, take a streetcar or just walk around. However, if you’re planning on heading outside of the city, a car can help you explore more of the Bay Area. Just be aware that narrow, hilly streets and terrible traffic can make for, well… unpleasant driving. Whether you stay in the city or take it out of town, there’s a LOT of hidden gems in SF, so be sure to explore some of the non-touristy areas as well! 

Can I travel to San Francisco during covid?

We recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, and many airlines require it. While in San Francisco, you’ll need to be sure to always wear a mask in public areas and maintain social distancing. Since San Fran has plenty of outdoor spaces and good weather most of the year, it’s a great destination for low-covid-risk activities and has plenty of open attractions for social distancing. 

6. Washington, D.C. 

If the last time you visited D.C. was on your 8th grade field trip, it’s definitely time to start planning a return trip. There’s a lot to explore and discover, even if you’re not a history buff (but especially if you are!). Washington D.C. is home to many, many historical and political museums and monuments. There’s also world-class science and art museums, music and theatre venues, parks and more. While you’re there, you’ll find plenty to explore while staying outside and social-distancing too: the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the White House, for starters. Also, fyi: all the Smithsonian museums are free, so add a few to your itinerary! 

Current best deal: $59* one-way from Washington D.C. (average flight price: $228* roundtrip)

Best Places to Stay in Washington, D.C.

Some of our favorite places to stay—especially if you’re planning on doing lots of sightseeing—include Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Foggy Bottom and Penn Quarter. Georgetown is one of the oldest sections of the city, so it’s super charming. It’s also home to plenty of students thanks to the nearby university. Dupont Circle, on the other hand, is one of the trendiest areas of the city and offers incredible restaurants and nightlife, aside from being super close to some of the best sights.

Don’t try to do it all on one trip! D.C. is bigger than it seems, and packs a serious punch when it comes to things to do. Exploring the National Mall and monuments there could easily fill an entire day. Wear comfortable shoes and prioritize your must-sees first. 

Can I travel to Washington, D.C. during covid?

If you’re visiting D.C. from a state designated as high-risk by the city, you’ll need to quarantine for 14 days. We recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, and many airlines require it. Regardless of where you’ll be coming from, you’ll need to be sure to always wear a mask in public areas and maintain social distancing. Check out the updated list of what’s open in Washington D.C. when planning your itinerary! 

7. Seattle 

Seattle is known for being a hip, youthful city that’s a hub for arts and culture. There’s always something going on here—and plenty of green spaces both within and outside of the city if you need a break from city life. Indulge in some delicious craft coffee (& beer, if you’re old enough), as Seattle is a bit obsessed with both.

Grab a bite to eat at Pike Place Market, then enjoy the waterfront views from downtown. Hit up an art museum or an outdoor music event, or head indoors to the super-unique Museum of Pop Culture. If you want to social-distance out of town, hop on a ferry and head to Olympic National Park. It’s home to some incredible scenery and one of the quietest places in the US, the Hoh National Forest. What better way to destress? 

Current best deal: $64* one-way from Los Angeles (average flight price: $230* roundtrip)

Best Places to Stay in Seattle

Staying in downtown Seattle is definitely your best bet. It puts you close to all the must-sees and do’s and has a hip vibe with amazing views. However, if you’re on a tight budget, staying in Pioneer Square, Belltown or even University District are great options that’ll keep you close to the heart of things while providing more budget options. 

Seattle’s weather is notoriously rainy—so do not forget a raincoat, no matter when you’re visiting! However, it’s also a very walkable city (with good public transit options as well) so don’t feel like you have to rent a car. 

Can I travel to Seattle during covid?

There are currently no domestic travel restrictions or quarantine requirements for visiting Seattle. However, we recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, as many airlines require it. Seattle requires masks and social distancing in public areas—but thankfully has plenty of green outdoor spaces to enjoy the city while staying socially-distanced! Check out information on what’s open in Seattle while planning your trip. 

8. Austin 

Austin has been an overlooked destination for awhile, but it’s been putting itself on the map! It’s eclectic music scene, delicious food offerings and sunny year-round weather make it a favorite getaway. It also has a totally unique feel from loads of other US destinations. You could easily spend your entire trip just eating some of the best local food—from BBQ, breakfast tacos, all kinds of Mexican food and plenty of food trucks with offerings from everything to Lebanese and Italian foods to milkshakes, grilled cheese and more. And of course, exploring the downtown districts and hitting up some outdoor concerts is a must. If you get a bit hot (which you might, considering the 300+ days of sunshine per year), head to Barton Springs Pool (a 3-acre pool in Zilker Park) for a quick dip.

Current best deal: $65* roundtrip from Chicago (average flight price: $260* roundtrip)

Best Places to Stay in Austin

East Downtown or South Congress (affectionately known as SoCo) are two of our very favorite neighborhoods to stay in Austin! They’re super close to downtown while still having a very local vibe, filled with the music scenes and food you’ve heard so much about from Austin. And since they’re not smack-dab in the city center, you’ll be able to find more budget accommodations as well. 

Bring a swimsuit (and sunglasses) no matter what time of year you’re visiting! Austin is HOT (like, summer weather March-October hot). Thankfully, there’s plenty of swimming areas and places to cool off in the city (check out Barton Springs on really hot days!), but be prepared. Plan your outdoor adventures early in the day or in the evening and hide out of the sun during mid-day, unless you want to bring home a nasty sunburn as a souvenir. 

Can I travel to Austin during covid?

There are currently no domestic travel restrictions or quarantine requirements for visiting Texas. However, we recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling, as many airlines require it. Austin requires masks and social distancing in indoor public spaces and outdoors if social distancing can’t be maintained. 

9. Miami 

Miami is one of the most popular travel destinations in the US, especially for students. If some sunnier days lounging on the beach sounds like a luxury right now, a trip to Miami may be just what you need! No one will judge if you want to spend your whole trip on the beach. If you need a break, there’s lots more to do in Miami too. Miami has a thriving arts and food scene, too. Whether you want to visit a formal museum or stay outside and soak up the street art, eat at a fancy restaurant or grab outdoor tacos from a taco truck, there’s plenty of choices. 

Current best deal: $21* one-way from Newark (average flight price: $330* roundtrip—less if you’re coming from the East Coast)

Best Places to Stay in Miami

Miami Beach and South Beach are two of the most popular places to stay, and they’re great choices. Since they’re right in the heart of some of Miami’s best beaches and at the hub of Miami’s modern center for art, culture, food and nightlife, you really can’t go wrong. If you’re looking for something slightly quieter, Coconut Grove (known as just “the Grove” to locals) is home to dozens of annual festivals and countless seaside cafes, bars and restaurants.

Remember: a bikini is only acceptable attire during the day! Fashion is quite casual in Miami due to the huge beach influence, but if you’re heading out at night, cocktail attire is expected at many places. Also, a local tip: even if you’re staying near Ocean Drive, don’t eat all your meals there. The food there is more for tourists and tends to be more expensive. Venture to other areas of Miami, like Downtown or Little Havana for a real taste of local food. 

Can I travel to Miami during covid?

We recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling. Many airlines require it, even though there aren’t travel restrictions or quarantine requirements in place for visiting Florida. With Florida’s sunny weather and plentiful beaches, though, there’s plenty of outdoor spaces to social distance! 

10. Denver 

Colorado is known for its incredible outdoor offerings, and Denver makes for the perfect jumping-off point! Red Rocks, right in Denver, is known for its outdoor summer concerts, but it’s also a great place for day hikes. If you really want to get out in nature, Rocky Mountain National Park is just a short drive away, as are Mount Evans and Pikes Peak. Be warned: altitude sickness and quickly-shifting weather in the mountains can make hiking conditions more variable than they seem. Plan ahead and be safe! 

Current best deal: $33* one-way from Philadelphia (average flight price: $216* roundtrip)

Best Places to Stay in Denver

There’s plenty of great areas to stay in Denver. If it’s your first trip, we recommend staying in downtown Denver or near the Central Business district. For more budget accommodations, staying a bit further outside of the city center can be a great option. Capitol Hill has some great budget hostels, and of course, Airbnbs are another go-to for many budget travelers. 

Denver sits at 5,280 feet elevation (thus why it’s nicknamed the Mile-High City!) so the altitude might feel noticeable for the first few days if you’re coming from somewhere coastal. Give yourself a day or two to adjust before heading into the mountains. Make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen, regardless of weather. Also, the weather can change rapidly in Colorado (it’s not unheard of to get snow in September or May!) so bring layers and be prepared! 

Can I travel to Colorado during covid?

We recommend all travelers to get a COVID-19 test before traveling. Many airlines require it, although there is not an official testing or quarantine requirement for visitors to Colorado. While in Denver, you’ll need to be sure to always wear a mask in public areas and maintain social distancing. Since Colorado is known for its incredible outdoor adventures, it’s a great place to social distance!

So, where will you be off to next? Wherever you’re headed, we have cheap student flights to get you there for less.

* FYI : Flight prices are dynamic and subject to change at any time—while these prices were available at the time of writing, we can’t guarantee how long these will be available. All prices were current at the time this was published. Prices are subject to availability and subject to change without notice. Flight prices vary by date, departure city, arrival city and availability. All taxes/fees are included in the price, except certain government taxes, change fees and fees imposed in destination and airline baggage fees if applicable.

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52 Places to Love in 2021

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We asked readers to tell us about the spots that have delighted, inspired and comforted them in a dark year. Here, 52 of the more than 2,000 suggestions we received, to remind us that the world still awaits.

South wales, wales.

Over the last 20 years I’ve traveled to South Wales about seven or eight times with my wife, and later our children, to visit family in a town near Swansea called Mumbles. (The name is a corruption of the French word for “breasts.”) It sits at the edge of the Gower Peninsula — a beautiful wild place that offers expansive beaches, medieval castles, hilltop trails, horses that graze near Stone Age ruins and picture-book villages with friendly pubs serving Sunday roasts and local ales in dark-wood booths.

Punctuated by weddings, births, graduations, anniversaries and deaths, our trips represented different stages in our lives. But each trip also seemed less like a visit to relatives in the old country than an escape to a secret, beautiful place that only we knew.

About the author

Owen Martikan is a lawyer who lives in San Anselmo, Calif., with his wife, Catherine, and their two teenage children.

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands

Saipan is only five miles wide and 12 miles long, but runners showed me parts of the island I never would have found myself. We saw a beautiful B-29 engine from a plane crash in the mountains. Also a staircase cut into a cliff, from the last Japanese command post .

Runners took me boating, diving, hiking, camping, spelunking and golfing. Swimming in a lagoon that dropped toward the Mariana Trench, we marked how far we’d swum with the top halves of three submerged Sherman tanks — a door open, guns sticking out. I was never the hare, but I’m coming back to set a trail.

Meghan West of Denver, a geophysicist working with the Army Corps of Engineers, traveled to Saipan looking for unexploded ordnance from World War II.

Kaliya Dhrow, India

I pinned it down to several villages. Riding along a dirt road, we passed a hill split by nature. On both sides you have water, craggy peaks. This one huge mountain has six peaks, which I named Mahabharata, after the ancient poem in which five brothers share one wife. It was around noon, the sun was beating down and we had been riding for two hours when the road ended. We parked our bikes.

From the rim of a crater, I looked inside this marvelous, endless landscape of red: streaks of crimson, saffron — orange, also. I started climbing down, through the different shades of the setting sun, and I came to a waterfall with fish flying upstream.

Varun Suchday, of Bhuj, India, rode a motorcycle to tour the remote landscape near the village of Bhadli with his father and uncles in 2020.

Photo credits

Two bottom photographs taken by Kaushik Gor.

Isfahan, Iran

There’s a difference between the people and the government. I wish Americans could see the vibrant curiosity of the people who live here. I used to visit Isfahan every year. I spent long mornings lifting weights in the women-only gyms, and afternoons with my grandfather, watching him lovingly watering the plants in his garden and shooing away stray cats. But divisive politics, and now Covid-19, have made it harder. My grandfather died two years ago. I wasn’t there. I feel my Farsi growing rusty on my tongue.

Neeknaz Abari was raised in Washington, D.C., and works at a consulting firm in Dallas.

The Llanos, Colombia

Tropical rhythms are replaced by the twangy harp of joropo, and the smell of the sea gives way to that of tallgrass, cattle and smoky barbecue.

As Colombia has attracted more international visitors in recent years, the Llanos have remained relatively untraversed. The Llanos host an alluring combination of pristine biodiversity and traditional ranching culture seemingly lost in time. Anacondas, howler monkeys, capybaras and crocodiles live alongside ranchers, farmers and thousands of cattle. The grasslands once featured some of the wildest battles of the Independence era , and have witnessed the 20th-century horrors of guerrilla violence and drug trafficking. Today, though, like the rest of Colombia, the Llanos are emerging, if unsteadily, as a place of tranquillity.

Samuel Dulik, a native of the San Francisco Bay Area, is a management consultant in Bogotá.

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Inhabited since Paleolithic times, Siwa is where the past, present and future seem to exist at once. There you’ll find a mountain filled with Ptolemaic tombs and the Temple of the Oracle , both thousands of years old.

When I say it haunts my dreams, I mean it. I frequently find myself in my dreams walking through date orchards at night past the lakes, into the desert, nearly feeling the cool sand in my tired feet as I wonder at the stars. I always awake with a sense of calm and clarity.

Catherine Litten of Hyattsville, Md., works as a director of scholarships for an education nonprofit.

• Montana’s ‘Golden Triangle’

The plowed land closest to our farm held an old buffalo wallow, and there used to be tepee rings in the front pasture. This part of Montana, Lewis and Clark country, is flat and implacable with swells, coulees and hills. Ancient volcanic ranges — the Bears Paw Mountains, the Highwoods, the Little Rockies — sprawl in the middle of enormous wheat fields and acres of rangeland. Every morning when I was a kid, I saw the land first and the world second. It’s astonishingly severe and beautiful.

Light lasts a very long time there, in the summer evenings. There is sort of a constant background of big winds. And so we had a shelter belt, which was rows of trees that are around one corner of the main farm stand. And I would go down there as a kid and make my little world out of the clods of earth that were, and are, part of my soul.

You’re small in that part of the country.

Doreen Stevens is retired from nonprofit work and lives with her husband in Arlington, Mass.

The Camino de Santiago, Spain

Our first walk was in 2007 after two of his brothers died. I was not expecting to enjoy it; the idea was that we were offering up our sufferings for our ancestors. Instead, I found myself appreciating both the forced meditation and the fellow travelers we met on the way. We’ve gone back multiple times and brought different members of our family with us. I’ve rethought jobs, relationships and life direction over hundreds of kilometers. When you walk into a town, you really smell, hear and see the gradual changes from rural to urban and back again. My father died recently. My grandfather and I are hoping to go back to the Camino next year, and walk the last 100 kilometers on the French route on his behalf. For my grandfather, completing the Camino would release my father’s soul from purgatory. For me, it would be a chance to reflect, in gratitude, with and for the family I have left.

Sam Michaux is from Minnesota and moved to Los Angeles to write novels.

Malpaís, Costa Rica

It was so beautiful. At night, everything closed, and it was really dark. I remember being on the beach, looking up, and really seeing the stars. I saw a satellite for the first time. I felt small and big at the same time, like I was connected to everything. When you travel, you’re able to become a different version of yourself. In Malpaís, we slept on hammocks on the beach for a dollar. I felt so free. I’m from New Jersey, where there were always lights and people around. This time in Costa Rica felt like an introduction to me stepping into myself and finding my independence.

Kara Hoholik is the chief executive of Social for Good Co., a content marketing agency. She lives on a farm in Western Michigan.

Dakar, Senegal

I landed in Dakar to the bluest sky I’ve seen, hundreds of sprawling baobab trees, sandy dust and angelic light.

Dakar is a city whose stability has centered me during my shakiest times. It is a place where tradition runs through every corner: the Wolof language, the sharing of meals — especially thieboudienne, or red rice with fish.

I turned 25 in Dakar, a city with such a clear sense of self, ideals and history, a city that refuses to be like anywhere else, a city that taught me the importance of being my own person, a city that made me question what I want to bring to the world, and what I stand for. I felt empowered by Dakar. It stood up for me. I’ve never felt unsafe there — and, as a Black woman anywhere, that’s an amazing thing.

Faridah Folawiyo is an art historian and independent curator from Lagos, Nigeria. She spent two months in Dakar for an artist residency in 2018.

London’s St. James the Less Church, England

It’s been so important to find those things that feel warm and cozy; to have a place to go in our minds that’s inviting, even if our reality is not. St. James the Less is in that space in my mind, along with endless cups of tea, candles and good books.

Sarah Best is a small-business owner and a poet. She lives in Madison, Wis., with her husband.

Photograph of the church taken by Rii Schroer/eyevine/Redux.

The Marrakesh Medina, Morocco

Inside the medina, there’s always this background noise — drumming and dancing and the sound of thousands of people passing through. There were, I think, seven mosques within sight of my terrace, and five times a day the call to prayer would start from each of them a few seconds apart, like a battle of the voices. I learned about the cold of the desert — my house was open, so when it would go down to 40 degrees, I’d basically be camping in my bedroom with sleeping bags. I have a ticket to Morocco in February — I’m not sure I’ll be able to use it yet, but I’m holding onto that ticket with all of my heart.

Jennifer Borch lives in Jericho, Vt., where she is the education program coordinator at the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants.

Nanda Devi Mountain, India

In front of us is a wide panorama of 23,000-foot peaks, with Nanda Devi dominating the landscape. It was a doomed romance. A few months after we were married, Shoma was diagnosed with cancer. We’d have three years together. I had this fear after my wife passed away: Will I remember Shoma going forward? How she spoke, how she felt, what she said, how she looked? The next time I saw the mountain, I was alone. The first memory that came to my head was of that earlier evening: a golden glow on her face. She looked at peace.

Prayash Giria and his wife, Shoma, visited Nanda Devi, India’s second-tallest mountain, in 2016. Mr. Giria, of New Delhi, returned in 2019.

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

We climbed a glacier using crampons, spikes attached to shoes for traction, and hiked through six miles of volcanic ash. On the last day, we climbed over this bridge by a huge waterfall. The mountains were covered in moss and there was a perfect, bluebird sky. I felt privileged that I got to see something so special and beautiful. I’m a plus-sized Chinese woman, and I’ve been told I can’t do things like this. But guess what: I did it, and I did it really well! I’ve climbed an ice wall. I’ve done double-digit river crossings with my pack over my head. This trail taught me how strong and powerful I can be.

Stacey Mei Yan Fong is a part-time baker in Brooklyn.

Photographs by Meredith Passaro, a friend of the contributor.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

It’s a place untouched for centuries. Your schedule is dictated by sunset and sunrise. In the vastness, you feel close to the center of the universe.

I came back to Wadi Rum as an adult after many hiking trips there as a schoolchild. I had been living in New York and had grown used to so much noise. I realized I had been to these sands so many times before, but had never appreciated their majesty. It needs to be the right moment — both in the sunset, and in your life. But if you arrive on time, Wadi Rum will change you forever.

Hashem Sabbagh, a lawyer turned filmmaker, was born and raised in Amman, Jordan.

My mom is from Aruba, and two of my aunts are still there. One aunt bought my grandparents’ house, so we drink wine on the same back porch where I used to play.

I did 23andMe, the DNA test, and my roots run really deep there. My great-grandmother is descended from the Arawak tribe. Now, so much of the island is built for tourists, but there’s even more to explore on the other side.

Elise Thompson is a marketing manager who has lived in New York City for 16 years.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan

My boyfriend came to Taiwan with me, and we weren’t really sure how to navigate queerness in Asia. My only frame of reference was mainland China, which is not exactly welcoming. This was before gay marriage was legalized in Taiwan — but I think that, generally, Taiwanese culture is super accommodating and welcoming. Now, we’ll come across something, usually food, that makes us miss Kaohsiung almost daily.

Andrew Liu was born in China and raised in the Hudson Valley. He works in immigration law and is currently based in Berlin.

The Scottish Highlands, Scotland

During that trip, we were driving on the NC500 and came upon this vista of snow-capped mountains perfectly reflected in the loch. There are those moments when you’re traveling — I call them 100-percent moments — and this was one of them. As soon as we’re able to safely travel again, the Highlands will be one of the first places I’ll go. I’ll catch the Caledonian Sleeper to Inverness, visit Cairngorms National Park and stay at The Fife Arms . I’ll go to the Isle of Jura ’s whisky distilleries, and go on long, blustery walks in the rain. This has been a distressing time, but I hope that we can all learn to really love and appreciate where we’re from.

Morgan Charles lives in Somerset, England, and works in the corporate security department of United Airlines.

• Lake Michigan

During my first fall break, my husband and I drove out to see it. The wild dunes, roaring waves and endless horizon stunned me. The next summer, I swam lap after lap in it. Visits to Lake Michigan have gradually taken on increasing seasonal regularity: marveling at ice waves in winter, enjoying April wildflowers, swimming late into autumn. We spent the summer quarantining with family in the Poconos in Pennsylvania so we could have help caring for our son, Jem. Our first week back, I took him up to the lake. He was around three months old at the time. I walked down to the water with him in my arms. I wanted him to experience this thing that has been so profound in my own life.

Jillian Snyder is a humanities and English lecturer in Valparaiso, Ind.

Niansogoni, Burkina Faso

I had heard rumors of an abandoned cliff village, like Mesa Verde in the United States, not far from my host community. When a friend came to visit, we set off on a three-day bike tour to visit and view the Niansogoni Cliffs and the Sindou Peaks. While Niansogoni was only around 20 miles away, the road was rough, and, in the middle of the hot season, we arrived dusty and dehydrated. After a change of clothes and a surprisingly cold Brakina beer, our guide led us on a hike up the cliffs. We viewed this abandoned troglodyte village of the Wara people, who in the 14th century fled into the hills to escape the neighboring Senufo tribes. Up top, in the quiet among the baobab trees, at the ends of the earth.

Teresa Gotlin-Sheehan is a high school social studies teacher in Denver. She joined the Peace Corps and lived in Burkina Faso from 2012 to 2014.

Asunción, Paraguay

Stepping off the plane in Asunción, the Paraguayan capital, is like opening an oven: The heat fogs up your glasses and the air smells of diesel smoke and grilled meats.

The colorful buses racing through the city, where I lived for two years, inevitably have to slow down for the mango and lapacho trees in the roads — the custom is to pave around them, rather than cut them down.

Paraguay is sometimes seen as a transitional place between the rain forests of Brazil and the Bolivian salt flats. Backpackers tend to skip it for its flashier neighbors. But for me, travel is not about taking pictures of famous things: It’s about the people. And Paraguay is the sort of place where multiple people will offer — if not beg — to drop you off or pick you up from the airport. That embrace can be felt even among visitors.

Abigail Williamson is an English language teacher on Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts.

South London Parks, England

Early on in the first lockdown, my boyfriend and I went to Battersea Park , which is also where we went on one of our first dates (and where we had one of our first fights). The sun was shining, the flowers were blooming and it almost felt like it was going to be OK. When restrictions started easing, the first thing we did was call some friends and meet in Myatt’s Field Park . We sat six feet apart, and it felt momentous.

Sage Erskine has lived in London for five years and is originally from Maine. She is a project manager at a creative agency.

Beirut, Lebanon

When I was six months old, my father, who was born in the village of Sahel Alma, took me to his homeland to be baptized. A generation later, I returned with my own six-month-old daughter in my arms. In the same little church in the coastal town of Jounieh , she received the same sacrament; I wrote her name in the same baptismal book. In the Lebanon I know, my aunts prepare mezze plates that stretch the length of the dining room table while we snack on green almonds. The air is scented with orange blossoms and gardenias from my Teta’s garden. The sun dips into the Mediterranean, and I am offered the ultimate luxury: the embrace of family.

Carolinne Griffin, a writer and editor, lives in Vermont with her husband, two children and dogs.

Photographs by Dylan Griffin, the contributor's husband.

Siberia, Russia

Our trip unfolded in spontaneous vignettes: A group of off-duty soldiers beckoned us into their compartment, sharing horseradish-infused vodka and communicating via mime and Google Translate. Assigned to the bunk next to me for an overnight leg, a chattering 6-year-old excitedly taught me the Russian words for colors. On the banks of the Kama River , we stumbled upon an outdoor disco party, and at a synagogue in Novosibirsk , a rabbi shared a conversation in bits of broken Hebrew. Siberia is not cold and barren. I found warmth, shared meals and endless points of connection.

Betsy Feuerstein, a lawyer in Washington, D.C., has lived on four continents.

Andros, Greece

I went back in 1996, and Yanni had cancer. And while I remember 1992 like it was yesterday — what I wore, where we went — I can’t really remember that second trip. Yanni was in and out of the hospital, getting chemo. He died a year later.

In 2017, I went back with my children and was relieved to see it mostly unchanged, though there were things I hadn’t noticed before, like a modern art museum and a cinema showing vintage films. It’s this warm, welcoming place, and the air smells like flowers. Now, my kids can’t wait to go back.

Maria Dal Pan is a writer and a founder of Erwin Park Communications. She lives in Montclair, N.J.

Growing up in a Bessarabian Jewish family, I had heard of the Old Country. What we discussed was never anything good. I never heard one thing about the sheer magnificence of the landscape or the bounties it serves up.

Driving just outside the city of Piatra Neamt , a wrought-iron fence with a Magen David (Star of David) caught my eye. I jammed on the brakes. We walked uphill to a cemetery — no sign. The caretaker, 80 if he was a day, showed us around. Maybe 10, 15 people in town are still Jewish. It was heartwarming to see someone caring for the place. I knew I was going to ask my wife to marry me. Driving from Bukovina — known for its beech trees and painted monasteries — to Maramures, we followed a zigzag mountain path: a place of transition. We reached a lookout. I said, “This is the place.”

Ivan Stoler lives in New York with his wife and works at a manufacturing company. (His family is from Moldova, which once belonged to Greater Romania.)

East Haddam, Conn.

I never liked being from a small town. Even when I was a kid, I wanted to get away as quickly as I could. As soon as I got a driver’s license, I was zooming to other places.

Although I’ve known East Haddam all my life, I finally fell in love with it last summer, when I visited with my boyfriend. We jumped into the waterfall at Devil’s Hopyard State Park ; I found myself marveling at the quaint farm stands and picturesque New England churches. It may be small, but it’s home.

Caley Millen-Pigliucci is a graduate student in journalism in New York.

Yarra Ranges National Park, Australia

There are few places that I love as deeply as the Yarra Ranges, particularly the old-growth mountain ash. It’s popular in the summer, but it comes into its own in the winter, when it’s covered in snow.

The first time I went, I couldn’t believe a place like this existed so close to where I live. I’ve gone back almost every winter since.

Eden Alley-Porter is a mariner, archaeologist and adventurer who lives in Melbourne.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

But it was during my two long hikes the next day that I fell in love. The afternoon sun warm, the air clean. I heard only my feet walking through sand, along with an occasional bird, horsefly, or scurrying chipmunk. This year has been wildly lonely and isolating. But at the canyon’s base , the path aggressively inclines, and I stopped. My brain got quiet. For the first time in months, my thoughts weren’t racing. Hiking, I realized, turned forced isolation into chosen solitude. Bryce is the perfect place to be with yourself.

Nora Lewis, an assistant public defender, left Miami where she was quarantined alone for a trip through Utah.

Huanchaco, Peru

Huanchaco was a place that was never on the map for me as I made my way traveling down South America.

I decided to stay for two weeks, three weeks, then that became four months.

As you walk down the main road, you have miles of beach on one side and a small, yet still bustling town on the other. You always hear people: vendors selling jewelry, or people selling different types of food. There’s a meaty, smoky smell in the air. I still smell the picarones (fried doughnuts) and papas rellenas (fried stuffed potatoes). And every single day has an amazing sunset.

Locals and tourists alike have a look at the waves to decide if a sunset surf is in the cards. (It’s good surf every day.) They believe Huanchaco was where surfing was born.

They have these reed canoes they use for fishing called “caballitos de totora.” It’s a symbol of Huanchaco. They say it was the original surfboard.

Will Lopez Flores is an educational-technology professional and photographer in San Francisco.

Jimmy’s Beach, New South Wales, Australia

There is a section of Jimmy’s Beach north of Barnes Rocks where the bay loops gently around to a point where the river and sand flow into Port Stephens.

This is my favorite place for walking my dog: We stop to examine the sea grass and shells (some like long fingernails), while a flock of small terns delight me with their fluttering nose-dives into the water. When I started visiting, submerged trees, now gone, stuck up from the sand — a strange sculpture forest that grew from the evolving landscape of the beach. I also found middens , the piles of shells from ancient Aboriginal feasts. This summer, walking with Diesel, I saw a dingo trotting behind us. With a frisson of anxiety, we hastened our pace until he padded into the bush, and we plunged into the icy water.

Suzie Shaw is a retired high school teacher in Sydney, Australia, where she spent a pandemic lockdown last year.

The University of Cambridge, England

It was very grand and Gothic, but beyond that, I was struck by the sheer, ritualized extravagance that goes into the substance of life in Cambridge; we had formals every Friday with a three-course dinner and wine pairings, and wine tastings tucked behind massive clocks reminiscent of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret .” I was also lucky to find a community of close friends from around the world. Both made my year at the university’s Trinity College feel like an almost surreal, pristine experience. I’ve found that during times of stress or grief, Cambridge will come to mind as a kind of counterpoint. I feel transported back to that safe, cocooned existence. I have a profound sense of gratitude for my year there; what a privileged time to have had.

Peggy Xu is from Johns Creek, Ga., and is studying law.

Lahore, Pakistan

Pakistan has a bad reputation, and is often overlooked by travelers who come to South Asia. But Lahoris are some of the kindest, most hospitable people. They love to take care of you and feed you. Lahore’s hot summers can feel oppressive, but in winter, in the cool dusk, lights twinkle in the fog. Androon Lahore , the city’s historic core, is studded with monuments from the Mughal era. I love to watch the Punjab locals feasting on terraces of restaurants overlooking the grand Badshahi Mosque — they are just regular people living their regular lives, and they are so alive in the present, while always connected to their past.

Haneen Iqbal is a 29-year-old freelance writer in Toronto, Canada.

Svalbard, Norway

The Arctic Circle is a world above our world: wrinkles of rock and ice, rare wildlife and vast white swaths stretching out forever into an ice-dotted sea.

When I went to Svalbard , I felt as if I’d been told an intimate secret by the Earth in a language that only I and the others on the ship could understand: hearing the loud crack of a glacier calving, ice dust flying, ice chunks splashing into the ocean, ripples getting larger and larger, turning into waves breaking along the shores of the fjord. When we were there, it became a part of us and we became a part of it. And as it shrinks , that part of me also shrinks.

Krysten Koehn, an art teacher who lives in Hamburg, Germany, spent an artist residency in Svalbard in 2014.

Alberta, Canada

When we first landed in the city of Calgary as a family of six, we weren’t used to the cold, dry climate. Growing up in Iraq, I had only seen snow on TV. But after moving to Canada, I learned what it looked and felt like; I watched the landscape change with the seasons. I could hardly believe that these beautiful mountains and lakes existed in my backyard. I didn’t have any formal schooling back home, but my parents always instilled in me and my siblings the value of education. Alberta is where I earned my bachelor’s degree, which ultimately allowed me to pursue a master’s degree. Alberta is where I learned how hard my parents worked to provide for us, and where I learned how free I could be as a woman.

Marokh Yousifshahi is a policy analyst in Calgary, Canada.

Santa Rosa, Calif.

One of my favorite places in Santa Rosa is Trione-Annadel State Park , which , along with other parts of the region, has suffered from wildfires in the last couple of years. People in this agricultural community see the seasons of destruction and renewal up close. They see how the fires hurt the economy and the land. I think of myself as a resilient person; I’ve gone through failures, traumas and upheaval. And I think that’s the ethos for Santa Rosa, too: resilience.

Ria D’Aversa lives in Santa Rosa, Calif., and is the co-founder of a small natural wine company.

Artwork is the pulse of Haiti: Caribbean Craft ’s extraordinary papier-mâché, Pascale Théard ’s beaded veve work, the beat of RAM’ s Haitian drums, the adored songs of BélO , the PAPJAZZ festival every January. I go to Hôtel Montana Haiti from time to time for a drink at the end of the day. It has a beautiful sprawling terrace that overlooks Port-au-Prince . There’s something about the view: the palm trees as the light goes down, the airport’s small landing strip, and, behind that, the mountains.

The mountains are Haiti for me. When the sun starts to set, a slight breeze picks up and the leaves of the palm trees blow, and I just exhale. Everything goes quiet there. I close my eyes — a moment to be grateful: I’m here.

Nadia Todres, a New York photographer, runs Center for the Arts, a nonprofit organization in Port-au-Prince that brings art and education to adolescent girls.

Ladakh, India

There’s intimacy at the top of the world. That at-homeness is peculiar for a nonbinary American to feel, but something about me is recognizable to people here. Once, we sat on the cold floor in a shaft of sunlight inside the Mangyu temple complex and felt the continuity of practice held every day for 1,000 years.

Ladakh is my understanding of what heaven would be — grounded in this earth. Every year, I visit Tso Moriri Lake , climbing to 15,000 feet in the dark morning to watch the sunrise. I hear army trucks beginning to move and old prayer flags flapping.

Before Ladakh, I thought being a traveler meant going to new places every year. This region has taught me what can deepen and mature when you return and return, and let a place remake you.

Jody Greene is a Zen Buddhist and literature professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

Hokkaido, Japan

Japan is awash with these geothermal bath houses that many people use in their daily routine. They act as part bath and part social club, where the elderly crowds gather to gossip about local life. Our wooden guesthouse was built into a rocky outcrop, underneath a looming volcano in Hokkaido ’s Daisetsuzan National Park. The lodge was cozy: a warm wooden smell, handmade carvings, rugs everywhere, low tables, skiing paraphernalia, books and handmade furniture. In Japan you go in completely naked . (Brits feel horrendously awkward at the thought.) We weren’t ready to get naked in front of each other’s wives — here it’s mixed-sex — we messaged the group to warn of our onsen visit. I will forever think of sliding into the bubbling hot water with cold cans of Sapporo beer, engulfed in steam.

Michael Sheridan, an engineering consultant from London, traveled with university friends to Hokkaido in October 2019.

The Hudson River’s Tappan Zee, New York

As a kid, the bridge over the Hudson River was always a point of travel. It is a connection point in New York. On a Sunday night in September, I found myself sitting at Pierson Park in Tarrytown, watching the sunset over the Tappan Zee. I thought, “This is a nice moment in time when I get to be here and be peaceful and not worry about what’s next.” I was able to look at things with a new adult eye. The bridge, now called the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge, is brand-new. It’s not the same bridge that was crumbling and falling over from when I was growing up.

I was preparing to move to California after finishing Zoom graduate school, and I became overwhelmed with a feeling that no matter where my life takes me, this three-mile river crossing will always bear a sense of home.

Alexis Sabol, a nurse, was born and raised in White Plains, N.Y.

• Northern Arkansas

The Buffalo River is less than two hours from Bentonville, and I can’t believe I didn’t know about it until recently. I’m sad that I missed out on the opportunity to share it with my father, who died two years ago. He loved the outdoors, and I feel like I’m in the right place — and at the right time — when I’m there. It’s a place that has allowed me to strengthen my connection to him.

Shaye Anderson is the director of content strategy at a creative agency. She lives in Bentonville, Ark.

Tagaytay, Philippines

We started in the morning, taking a bamboo boat across a tumultuous lake. Our guide, who lived on the island, was hiking in flip-flops. When we reached the top, I felt like I was on Mars — there was this beautiful red rock, and, suddenly, a crater with a lake in it. You could smell the sulfur. I remember feeling so thankful. Taal erupted in January 2020. My memories of this place are peaceful and full of color. Afterward, everything was covered in gray ash, including my family’s home. I want people to know what it looks like underneath the ash. Someday, I’d love to do that hike again.

Selena Ponio is a legal analyst who lives in New York City.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

One afternoon, I boarded a 12-seater plane and sailed over three snow-capped mountain ranges. When our group descended toward the tiny airport, we couldn’t see the landing strip — all we saw was the water. As we cruised around the fjord on the boat, the crew lined up a rack of water glasses and drove under an enormous waterfall. The glasses filled; the water tasted cold and refreshing. Milford Sound is so far from civilization — from cities, from the built environment — that nothing about it is polluted. It was so soothing to be on the water and watch the world go by.

Laura Lynn Walsh is a retired teacher who lives in Fairbanks, Alaska.

Top photograph by Kathryn Eidson, the contributor's sister.

Córdoba, Spain

I was born in Córdoba but was eating hummus in Jerusalem, another city where Jews, Muslims and Christians are bound together, when I finally understood its uniqueness. Tasting a chickpea purée, I recognized the techniques of salmorejo, the garlicky Cordoban purée of tomato and bread.

Travelers to Spain often forget to pause here. Tourists go to Barcelona, or Seville to see flamenco. People don’t know the history of Córdoba. For me, the city is a dream come true.

Fernando Moreno Reyes is a marketing manager who lives in Madrid.

Photographs by Irene Sanchez, a friend of the contributor.

Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Traversing the tundra, you feel like you’re going to fall into quicksand. And the palette of the landscape in summer — all blues and greens mixed with wildflowers — is also blinding, because it’s the same colors that you see everywhere. Each summer around the solstice , when there is 24 hours of daylight, my family spends time in Anaktuvuk Pass , the Native Alaskan village located entirely in the park. We look forward to the slow pace of life. My son will play with the kids there. It’s really important for me that my son understands what it means to grow up in an Indigenous culture. I want him to understand this place where we are just visitors.

Bree Kessler is a public-space researcher, designer and activist who lives in Alaska with her husband, a law enforcement park ranger, and 4-year-old son.

Con Dao, Vietnam

My father never went back to Vietnam. He died in 2006, and now, when I travel there, I bring his journalist card with me to return his spirit, in some way. Having a refugee background means I have an urgent need to love this place because Dad could not.

I spent three days on Con Dao. I visited a cemetery, where relatives of people who died or suffered in the prison can bring offerings. There’s a marine conservatory, where baby turtles are being raised. On the last day, I was on the beach. As I swam out in the warm, turquoise water, I burst into tears. It’s important that we have these places where we can remember the people we’ve lost. Someday, I’d like to take my children there so they can learn more about their grandfather.

Thang Dac Luong is a lawyer and a writer in Sydney.

• Northern Kyrgyzstan

Within a few hours in the mountains, the weather turned bad and it started sleeting. I’m 48 years old, and it was the first time in my life I’d seen something like snow. We would drive three, four hours and not come across another person. We spent four nights in a yurt camp, and the hospitality was mind-boggling. And this was just the northern part of the country! I’d like to go back to explore the rest of it, hopefully soon.

Yogesh Mokashi is the founder of The Egg Factory, a chain of restaurants in Bangalore, India.

Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

It was a whirlwind: a 14-hour layover in Paris, three days in Cape Town . We did not have a chance to plan anything, and everything we did was right at the moment, adding to the adventure. We took the last cable car to the top of Table Mountain at sunset — the whole mountain glowing with soft light. White Arum lilies were everywhere. It felt like the perfect way to introduce ourselves to South Africa . Enveloped in clouds, we could see just a hint of the city, its lights twinkling in the distance. I love the mountain for how it made me feel: the rush of emotion, the gratitude to share that experience with my siblings. A picture of them looking over the horizon brings me back to how much joy I felt.

Daniela Radpay, a high school Spanish teacher and university lecturer from Austin, Texas, traveled to Cape Town with two of her siblings.

Turku, Finland

Nature is so accessible here; there are these tall trees everywhere. It seems like the earth and the sky can almost touch. The river is really my thing. When I’m biking, I’ll go out of my way to ride on the river path. I moved back to Turku this August to be with my now-husband. We haven’t really been going out into the city because of the pandemic, and I almost feel like I’m not really back because I haven’t seen the river yet.

Avanti Chajed is from Illinois and lives in Turku. She is a doctoral student doing work on immigrant family experiences.

The Rawah Wilderness, Colorado

We marveled together along the creek bed and absorbed the lushness of early summer. And it was all hidden, off the main trail. If we hadn’t stopped, we wouldn’t have noticed it. Unfortunately, the largest forest fire in Colorado’s recorded history, Cameron Peak Fire , which was finally contained in early December, has consumed the Rawah Wilderness . Downed trees from beetle kill fueled the fire, and the smoke clouds exist as harbingers for the West’s desolate future.

The area is still closed and no one’s been up there besides the forest service. But I think we’ll be able to return. The Rawah Wilderness captures the fragility of nature. It’s taught me to say goodbye to the Colorado of my childhood and prepare for an uncertain future.

Michala Whitmore, an amateur historian living in Boulder, Colo., loves to hike.

The Methow Valley, Washington

I closed on my home a few months later, thinking I was a trailblazer with a remote job who was leaving the city behind. That was September 2019. Now I’ve come to know the Methow Valley in all four seasons, and she’s become my refuge in the pandemic. Others have followed, and now this secret spot is something of a Zoom Town. But there is space for all of us: It’s conducive to social distancing here.

The Valley is three towns woven together: Mazama, Winthrop and Twisp, where I head in summer to buy 25 pounds of Roma tomatoes and Dapple Dandy pluots. In fall I hike to the Goat Peak lookout and admire the golden larches.

Methow Valley is small — it’s not like Sun Valley or Park City. But I know it intimately now, and the rhythm of her landscape is a salve. It’s a precious place.

Rose Thompson, 32, lives in Mazama, Wash., with her partner and two dogs.

I was only a few years old in 1965 when my father’s partners at his Brooklyn gas station decided to sell. His next job would change my life.

I took my first around-the-world flight alone at 18. All of a sudden this new world just opened up to me. Am I inquisitive by nature or by temperament? Or was it the traveling that really completed that mix? Where everyone else is sitting in a plane, watching a movie, I’m at my window, looking at geologic glacial features that are just so unbelievably beautiful to me. I remember flying over the States and it was just a beautiful day. There was a light layer of snow over a lot of the country as I flew. And I just remember looking down at these open spaces, in these little towns, just thinking to myself about how we’re such little ants on this planet. There are many times when I have even spoken to the person sitting in back of me, saying, “Oh, look at that!”

Carrie Dovzak is a retired geologist living in Berkeley, Calif. She dreams of traveling post-Covid.

• South Wales
• Kaliya Dhrow
• The Camino de Santiago
• London’s St. James the Less Church
• The Marrakesh Medina
• Nanda Devi Mountain
• Laugavegur Trail
• The Scottish Highlands
• South London Parks
• East Haddam
• Yarra Ranges National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Jimmy’s Beach
• The University of Cambridge
• The Hudson River’s Tappan Zee
• Milford Sound
• Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve
• Table Mountain, Cape Town
• The Rawah Wilderness
• The Methow Valley

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

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The 10 best beaches in the US to visit right now

L aguna, La Jolla, Clearwater , Miami – there’s no doubt that the US does a sterling job in stellar beaches . But sometimes such over-subscribed destinations can make carving out your own slice of paradise without the crowds something of a challenge.

Thankfully, the US is home to over 95,000 miles of shoreline, with 30 states boasting a coast, meaning there are plenty of secret surf and sand spots, whether you’re looking for family beaches , supreme sunset viewing points , dramatic cliffs, or simply a place to connect with nature.

There are plenty of options to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best secluded, underrated beach locations in the United States .

From isolated sandy stretches in North Carolina to hidden spots on California ’s rugged coastline and the breathtaking sunsets across Hawaii ’s Polihale Beach sand dunes, each of these would make an unforgettable holiday that’s far from the madding crowd.

Read more on US travel :

• The ultimate USA travel guide
• Best USA holidays for the ultimate American experiences
• Why Wynwood is the best day out in Miami

Cannon Beach, Oregon

While some beaches trade off their sunshine quota, Cannon Beach in the Pacific Northwest is unique by virtue of being a marvel to visit whatever the weather. This long sandy stretch of coastline is home to the dramatic Haystock Rock, a giant towering rock formation that’s accessible on-foot at low tide. Adjacent stone “needles”, tidalpools and flocks of seabirds combine to make this an atmospheric spot. While a summer stroll is always pleasant, visiting in winter, with crashing waves and brooding skies is an unforgettable experience. Don’t leave without checking out the many art galleries and specialist shops that populate the town.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

North Carolina’s Outer Banks are a 100-mile plus stretch of barrier islands separating the mainland through a series of sounds and inlets. Home to wild horses, lighthouses and blissfully isolated expanses of sand, it’s the ideal place to seek out a spot away from the crowds. Hit the surf at Cape Hatteras, go fishing at Rodanthe Pier, or scramble up Jockey’s Ridge, the tallest living sandy dune system on the east coast.

Avalon Beach, New Jersey

Don’t be put off by its association with reality TV show Jersey Shore : this Atlantic region is home to 127 miles of sublime coastline, with plenty to interest and inspire. Head to Avalon on the Seven Mile Beach for white-sand beaches perfect for swimming, boating or kayaking, while North Wildwood is home to gentler waters and completely free to visit. Commercial boardwalks with amusements, water parks, shops and restaurants make this an ideal destination for a family break.

Kauaʻi, Hawaii

Hawaii ’s beaches are renowned the world over for their soft, white sands and tropical waters, but KauaÊ»i is best known for its dramatic cliffs, canyons and lush rainforests. Known as the “Garden Isle” for its verdant interior, it’s an ideal destination for trekking and kayaking, as well as being home to some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches.

PoÊ»ipÅ« Beach Park is one of KauaÊ»i’s most popular beaches, with a wading pool for younger swimmers and the occasional Hawaiian monk seal appearance, but travellers who really want to escape the crowds should head to the remote Polihale Beach. Located at the end of a dirty road, it’s a whopping 17 miles long, making it the longest stretch of beach in the entire state of Hawaii. Expect giant sand dunes, desert cacti and jaw-dropping sunsets. Polihale is notorious for being a very dangerous beach for swimming, however, so swap the dip for a steady stroll along the sands.

Cape Charles, Virginia

On the National Register of Historic Places, Cape Charles has one of the largest concentrations of turn-of-the-century buildings on the east coast. This quaint Victorian-era town is home to award-winning golf courses, two nature preserves ripe for exploration, and watersports galore, including kayaking, paddleboarding and jet-skiing. Plus, Cape Charles’ soft, sand beach is free to access, with calm and shallow waters making it suitable for waterbabies.

Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

A 15-minute drive from downtown Corpus Christi is Padre Island, the world’s longest undeveloped barrier island. This conservation area, stretching around 66 miles, is a major migratory bird route and home to 350 different species, with nearly half of all north American migratory bird species passing through here at different times of the year. Explore this charming stretch of coastline by kayak or canoe, watch sea turtles being released, or simply walk along this untouched stretch of coastline. And if the prospect of returning to four walls doesn’t appeal, you can also camp here.

Seal Beach, California

California ’s not short of excellent beaches, but Seal Beach is an underrated gem. This laid-back town south of Los Angeles ’ Long Beach has soft white sand, incredible views from the second longest wooden pier in the state, and a 965-acre wildlife refuge you can visit. It’s also the start (or end) point of the San Gabriel River Trail, a 36-mile long cycle route that’s one of the best traffic-free spots in the valley for biking.

Dauphin Island, Alabama

Skip the crowds at Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and take the 40-minute ferry ride to the more secluded Dauphin Island. Known as the “sunset capital of Alabama”, this island is home to seven miles of white-sand beaches, great weather and crystal clear waters. Hike through the ancient maritime forest of Goat Tree Reserve, where you can spot birds including vireos, flycatchers and owls and sign up for a chartered fishing expedition, before feasting on crab and lobster at the acclaimed Skinner’s Seafood.

Wellfleet, Massachusetts

Cape Cod has long been a major draw for visitors on the east coast, but it’s also prone to overcrowding. Wellfleet, meanwhile, is a pretty, small and peaceful town surrounded by coast on both sides and centrally located, meaning it’s easy to travel around if you start to yearn for more action. It’s also famed for its excellent oysters, making it an dream destination for foodies. Head to Mac’s on the Pier for some of the best. And don’t leave without visiting the Wellfleet flea market, the biggest on Cape Cod.

Wildcat Beach, California

Fancy a challenge? Rewards don’t come easy at Wildcat, with visitors required to hike five miles to reach this remote California beach, but it’s more than worth the trek. Short on time? Mountain bike on the Stewart Trail, before cooling off in the Pacific. This peaceful spot is home to seals, striking cliff views and some incredible sunsets. And if you’d prefer to spread the hike over a few days, you can rest your bones at Wildcat Campground. For a more active trip, pack up and hike north up the coastline to discover more secret beaches.

Torn between skiing and surfing? Here’s how to hit both slopes and the waves on a California weekend

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The Best Toilets of 2024, Tested by Experts

Our top picks combine flushing performance, comfort and efficiency.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall Toilet

Kohler corbelle comfort height toilet.

Best Value One-Piece Toilet

Glacier bay one-piece toilet in white.

Best Smart Toilet

Kohler innate smart toilet.

Best Wall-Mounted Toilet

Duravit sensowash starck f shower toilet seat.

Best Value Two-Piece Toilet

Delta foundations two-piece toilet.

Best Two-Piece Toilet

Best Toilet for Modern Spaces

Swiss madison well made forever one-piece toilet.

Best High-Efficiency Toilet

American standard vormax ultra high efficiency toilet.

Best Smart Toilet Bidet

Toto s7a washlet.

Over the last five years, our team inside the Institute's Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab has tested more than 20 toilets from all the top brands, including American Standard, Delta, Glacier Bay and Kohler, to name just a few. In the Lab, we put toilets through a torture test that includes flushing golf balls and sponges. We also send toilets into the homes of consumer testers, who share real-world experience, like how noisy the toilet is in the dead of night or if it’s easy enough to keep clean. And we hear from professional remodelers, who share insights into installation.

After reading through our picks, you’ll find more information on the qualities to look for when shopping for the best toilets. Be sure to check out other expert advice for bathroom upgrades, including our round-up of the best showerheads , towel warmers for your favorite bath towels , toilet risers and waterproof vinyl flooring .

Kohler is one of the brands our experts have tested the most, both in-Lab and through extended use in actual homes. This Corbelle two-piece toilet ranks as our best overall toilet, combining superb flushing performance with an elegant shape and water-efficient mechanics. "It was able to down 21 tissues, seven sponges and 14 golf balls in a single flush," says Alec Scherma , a test engineer at the Good Housekeeping Institute. You can spend less on a toilet, but if the Corbelle is in your budget, several features make it worth the splurge. The comfort-height design offers superb ergonomics for older homeowners, and the toilet is extremely water-efficient, using just 1.28 gallons per flush. Testers also say the Corbelle doesn’t need to be cleaned as often, thanks to the surface treatment that helps inhibit the growth of water scale and mineral stains. It also features a skirted trapway — a smooth facade at the base of the toilet which means fewer bends and curves to trap dust and grime.

If you're looking to spend a bit less, take a look at the Kohler Highline Classic . Our experts say the two-piece, comfort-height toilet should deliver capable flushing performance for a couple hundred dollars less than the Corbelle, though you'll have to live without a skirted trapway.

Glacier Bay is one of The Home Depot's exclusive brands, so it's a solid option if value and convenience are top priorities. And you won't have to compromise much on performance, either. In fact, the one-piece toilet was one of the best in our tests at flushing away solid and liquid waste. It's also held up well in extended home testing too. "We installed the toilet in a rental unit more than a year ago," notes one of our testers. "Renters can be forgiven for not being hyper-vigilant with use and maintenance, but the Glacier Bay hasn't had any maintenance or performance issues."

"Less expensive toilets tend to be two-piece, which are a little harder to keep clean," adds Scherma. "This Glacier Bay offers a great price in a one-piece design." It also has a bunch of innovative features, including dual-flush technology, nice for keeping your water bill in check. The soft-close lid is another touch of luxury. The elongated seat offers maximum comfort, though you'll have to be diligent about cleaning, since the bowl doesn't have any of the surface treatments that help prevent stains and water scale. One more possible drawback: The toilet is only available in basic white.

If you're doing a high-end bathroom remodel, chances are you're considering a smart toilet. The built-in cleansing bidet is the key feature of these high-tech commodes, and most people who experience it become quick converts. That was clearly the case with our home testers who evaluated Kohler's Innate Smart Toilet, which combines sleek contours with a long list of enhancements, including precision water pressure and temperature control, plus electrolyzed pre-rinsing of the bowl to minimize stains. "I really appreciate the bidet features," our tester noted, adding that "the auto-flush is amazing, it's nice to look at and it's much easier to clean than a regular toilet." The Innate can even flush on its own and lift and lower its seat automatically, for start-to-finish hands-free control.

Our expert Lab review found all the specs our engineers look for in a top-performing toilet, starting with a 1.28 gallons-per-flush efficiency rating that qualifies it for the EPA’s WaterSense certification. Its comfort-height design makes sitting down and getting up easier, another "aging in place" benefit of smart toilets, along with the hands-free cleaning.

Make no mistake: This high-end toilet is priced 10 times higher than other perfectly serviceable models in our round-up, plus the heated seat and warm water are an added energy cost. But if the Innate is in the budget, it certainly won't disappoint.

Wall-hung toilets are particularly well-suited to urban dwellers or others who have small bathrooms. That's because the tank is hidden behind the wall, giving back about six inches of floor space. Duravit's Sensowash Starck F was designed by renowned industrial and interior designer Philippe Starck, adding to the fixture's conceptual flair.

But does it work? Our experts say yes. “The bidet for back and front really delivers a sense of clean that you might find surprising at first, but then really love," says the general manager of the Good Housekeeping Institute Laurie Jennings , who installed the Sensowash in her home. "The night-light feature is cool, and the powerful heated seat is next-level awesome.” Our engineers also like that the Sensowash Starck F's automatic open-and-close lid and the fact that it can be operated via remote control or an app on your phone that allows you to program profile settings.

As with all wall mounts, installation is more complicated because it requires opening the wall, rerouting the waste pipe and possibly reconfiguring the wall studs. Keep in mind that this model needs to be plugged in so you'll need a power source nearby as well.

The least expensive toilet from our latest round of testing is also one of the most capable. "In our Lab tests, we were able to flush 21 golf balls down this Delta," reports Scherma.

The two-piecer with an elongated bowl and comfort height offers solid flushing performance, using just 1.28 gallons at a time , good enough for the EPA WaterSense label. The plain design only comes in white, but the slow-close lid is a feature usually reserved for more expensive models, and there’s even a splash guard to keep liquid from getting under the tank, a common complaint with two-piece toilets.

Still, there are more crevices in the two-piece design, so keeping the exterior clean will take extra work, and the bowl is susceptible to stains and water scale.

Two-piece toilets have a more traditional look. If that matches the design of your bathroom, Toto's Drake from Toto is one to consider. Though we haven't tested it in our Lab, our engineers expect it to perform similarly to other tested Toto toilets.

That's because it features the same cyclonic flushing technology, which we have found to be extremely effective at sending solid and liquid waste on its way. The trade-off with this model is that it uses a bit more water — 1.6 gallons per flush. But Toto sells another version of the Drake that meets the EPA’s WaterSense label requirement of 1.28 gallons per flush.

The line's comfort-height design makes it an excellent choice for homeowners with more limited mobility. The rimless toilet bowl design facilitates cleaning by eliminating the build-up of hidden waste. Take note, however, that the seat is sold separately with both models.

In our tests, we find one-piece toilets are the easiest to keep clean because there are fewer cracks and crevices to trap grime. Our design experts say they also offer a more sleek, modern look. Both points are true with this eye-catching commode from Swiss Madison.

In addition to its shapely design, the dual-flush technology makes it water-efficient. "This toilet is the standard 15 inches, if you prefer a traditional height," says Scherma, noting that some testers find comfort height to be a little awkward. All of our testers like the soft-close lid which, combined with the quiet, gravity-fed flush, won't wake the house in the middle of the night. Another nice feature: The quick-release seat removes easily from the seat without the need for tools, for deep cleaning.

One note: This is the largest toilet we tested, and the heaviest too, weighing a good 20 pounds more than other models. So it's not ideal for smaller bathrooms and its heft makes installation more challenging.

Our experts have seen steady improvements in toilet water efficiency over the decades (some of them even remember when they needed upwards of 5 gallons for a single flush!). The Vormax shows how far the industry has come. Using just one gallon per flush, the WaterSense-certified unit is among the most water-efficient toilets on the market, without any sacrifice in flushing power of both solid and liquid waste, based on our testing. Its 17-inch height straddles the line between standard and comfort (American Standard uses the term “right height").

It may be a little pricey, but antimicrobial agents in the material are designed to inhibit the growth of mold, mildew and odor-causing bacteria, though as with any toilet, you’ll still need to clean it regularly — just maybe not quite as often. As is fairly common with toilets, the seat of the Vormax is sold separately.

Bidet seats replace your existing seat, effectively turning any standard toilet into a smart one. Japan-based Toto invented the bidet-style toilet seat in 1980, and it remains the market leader. In recent years, we've tested several iterations of the brand’s flagship model, the Washlet, including the recently launched S7A. Easy installation and feature-rich performance make it our current favorite in the fast-growing category.

Testers called out the heated seat, night-light, water temperature controls and the pre-mist feature that helps keep waste from sticking to the bowl. “I also love how easy the seat is to remove for a deep clean,” noted one tester, who installed the S7A as part of a bathroom renovation. The S7A has a particularly sleek, streamlined profile compared with other bidets we’ve tested. We also like that the S7A's seamless seat design minimizes gaps and crevices for dirt and grime to collect.

In addition to the steep upfront cost, the Toto uses more energy and water than a traditional toilet seat, as is the case with all premium bidets. If you're curious about bidets but have a smaller budget, consider the Tushy Classic 3.0 , which won a 2023 Home Reno Award . It's a manual bidet, meaning no heated water or pressure controls, but it's a fraction of the price of premium electric bidets and doesn't need to be plugged into an outlet.

How we test toilets

Our market experts keep constant tabs on the bathroom fixture market to identify the toilets you’re most likely to find at home centers, bath showrooms, plumbing supply stores and online. They are also regulars at trade shows and industry events, including the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS).

Continuous hands-on toilet tests start in our Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where our engineers perform a thorough spec review, checking factors like water efficiency and flush mechanism, and verify any third-party certifications related to performance and efficiency.

Rigorous Lab tests are carried out by our engineers, who put each toilet through a battery of tough tests. This includes clog tests involving colored powder, wads of toilet paper , sponges and even golf balls. Our top toilets were able to handle more than 12 golf balls in a single flush (some more than 20!). We also used sensitive sound equipment to measure noise.

Consumer testing takes place over several months in our homes, where we were able to evaluate the toilets under real-world conditions. Home-based consumer testing captures usability, with consumer testers assessing factors like comfort, cleanability and intuitiveness of the high-tech features.

Experts use this rig to elevate toilets during testing. A bucket underneath catches the flushed water — along with sponges, golf balls and other items used to simulate waste.

What to look for when shopping for the best toilet

Toilets have become more complicated in recent years, thanks to improvements in design, efficiency and technological innovations. Consider these options to find the model that’s right for you.

✔️ Height: Newer toilets are available in "comfort height," usually between 17 and 19 inches high, versus the 15 inches of traditional toilets. Older homeowners or those with knee issues may appreciate the extra few inches, since it makes the toilet easier to get on and off. You should also think about the overall height of the toilet, tank included; it can vary from model to model by six inches or more, which might make a difference in a powder room or other small bathroom.

Another important size consideration is the toilet’s rough opening or the distance from the finished wall to the center of the toilet's floor drain. Twelve inches is the standard, but some models come with 10-inch and 14-inch openings. It’s important to match the new toilet with the existing one, otherwise, you’ll have to make pricey modifications to the floor and plumbing.

✔️ Weight: No toilets are heavy enough to require additional structural support, but an extra hefty toilet will be harder to install, especially if you're tackling the job on our own. A 75-pound toilet is more DIY-friendly than one weighing 120 pounds or more.

✔️ Flush mechanism: Toilets used to have one flushing option, typically a lever on the tank that you press down. They still exist, but dual-flush toilets are now common. These typically have two buttons on the top of the tank that let you do a partial flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. Dual-flush toilets can save water, but our tests have found the flushing power to be a little weak with some models, so you end up having to flush twice. The dual-flush models that made our round-up don't have that issue.

✔️ Flush system: There are two main options: gravity-feed and pressure-assisted. Unless you have a large household, our experts say stick with a gravity-feed toilet, which uses a traditional tank and the law of gravity to move waste down the drain. Pressure-assisted toilets use compressed air to force water and waste down the line, making for a very noisy flush. They’re extremely effective and can handle flush after flush without waiting for the tank to refill, which is why they’re more common in commercial buildings.

✔️ Style: The main decision here is between a one-piece and two-piece design. One-piece toilets are fabricated using a single mold, integrating the tank and the bowl. They have a sleeker look with fewer cracks and crevices in their exteriors, which makes for easier cleaning. But they usually cost more than two-piece toilets, which have a separate bowl and tank, for a more traditional look. Two-piece toilets are also lighter, which along with their simpler mechanics, makes them easier to install.

✔️ Bowl shape: It’s not a huge factor, but if you’re short on space (say in a powder room), you’re better off with a round bowl, since those toilets are a bit smaller than elongated models. If space is really tight, you might want to consider a wall-mounted toilet. With this option, the tank is hidden behind the wall, so you gain a good six inches. They tend to be more expensive and installation is more involved and pricey, but they’re a great fit for tight spaces.

✔️ Water efficiency: All toilets made today must meet the federal limit of 1.6 gallons per flush (compared with the 3 to 5 gallons per flush that used to be the norm). The EPA's WaterSense label recognizes toilets that use 1.28 gallons per flush. Some dual-flush models in our tests do even better by using a single gallon for their liquid-waste flush.

How often should a toilet be replaced?

Toilets have an unlimited lifespan, according to a study of home components by the National Association of Home Builders. But parts inside the toilet tank, like the flapper or valve, will need occasional maintenance or replacement.

Even if you have an older toilet in your home that's still working, it might be worth an upgrade to take advantage of improved water efficiency. In 1992, a new federal law required all new toilets to use 6 gallons per flush (gpf) or less; prior to that, 3 to 5 gallons was the norm. The EPA's WaterSense certification calls for a stricter 1.28 gpf and the most efficient toilets in our tests get the job done using a single gallon.

What is a toilet’s MaP score?

Short for “maximum performance,” the MaP score is an industry test that measures the number of grams of soybean paste (used to simulate solid waste) and toilet paper that a toilet can flush away completely in a single flush. While the information is available to plumbing suppliers and contractors, it’s not always easy to find for consumers, which is why we don’t list it alongside other specs. But if you’re working with a pro, you can ask them for the MaP score of any toilets they recommend. A score of 600 or higher is considered high-performing.

What are smart toilets?

The latest innovation in toilet design, smart toilets are loaded with high-tech features, including night-lights, self-opening and closing lids and even built-in digital assistants ("Hey Google, is it going to rain today?"). But the key distinguishing feature is the built-in bidet that provides a gentle cleaning spray, eliminating, or at least reducing, the need for toilet paper. The market for smart toilets has grown significantly in recent years, so much so that we now have a separate report on them. Check out our top smart toilet picks for all the details.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Dan DiClerico has tested and written about bathroom fixtures, including toilets, for more than two decades. As Director of Home Improvement & Outdoor at the Good Housekeeping Institute , Dan oversaw the latest round of toilet testing in our Lab, as well as the in-home, survey-based consumer testing that allows us to evaluate these devices under real-world conditions.

Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute . A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.

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