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The best places to visit in the USA for every month of 2023

We've named the 12 best places to visit in the USA with one amazing destination for every month of the year

Whether you live in the US or on the other side of the world, you’ve got to admit that the US is an amazing place to travel. But the US is a huge, huge country, and an experience on one end is going to be incredibly different to another. Here, you’ve got glamorous resorts, hikes through national parks, wide open beaches and tightly packed cities (and much, much more).

Plus, you’ve got the weather. A holiday in Alaska is going to be very different to Las Vegas, that’s for sure, so you might want to plan accordingly. In fact, our biggest tip is to choose where you’re going in the US based on a particular time of year - so we’ve made life easy for you. We’ve rounded up the best places to go in the US in 2023, for every month of the year. Now that is how you do a trip. Happy holidays!

RECOMMENDED: 🏞️ The best national parks in the US 🎢 The best amusement parks in the US 🏨 The best all-inclusive resorts in the US 🏖️ The best beaches in the US 😎 The best family vacations in the US

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Best places to visit in the USA, by month

1. January: Colorado

It’s no secret that Colorado ski resorts are among the country’s best, but that's not all this state has to offer outdoor enthusiasts in the winter. Try your hand at heli-skiing (that's dropping from a helicopter rather than a ski lift) in the backcountry at Telluride , bask in natural hot springs after your ride down the mountain in Steamboat Springs , or embrace winter camping and dog sledding at the refurbished mine town of Dunton Hot Springs, where you'll find an Old West saloon, the opportunity to ice climb and, of course, more hot springs.

2. February: Yellowstone National Park

This world-famous Wyoming National Park is always spectacular, and while it’s understandably mainly visited in warmer months, if you can get there in February you’ll be in for a real treat, with the whole place transformed into an other-worldly wintery wilderness. Animals are much easier to spot in the snow, with the most notable example being bison, complete with their shaggy winter coats, and the steam from the geysers is far more pronounced.

3. March: Hawaii

Hawaii enjoys beautiful weather and comfortable temperatures year-round, with thermometers reliably staying above 79°F and below 88°F, but March and April are particularly pleasant times to visit, slipping in between the spring and summer vacation seasons. From the massive volcanoes on the Big Island (Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa and Kilauea), and the Na Pali cliffs of Kauai , to the pristine beaches of Oahu —every part of the state is stunning. But if you have to pick just one spot to see while you're there, we recommend heading to the very top of Maui, where the Haleakalā crater's huge caldera's landscape is otherworldly.

4. April: Washington DC

Despite being such a historic city, Washington DC keeps evolving—even now, new museums are breaking ground. There's one more big reason to head to D.C. this spring, too: cherry blossom season. While Japan’s cherry blossom season seems to grab most of the world’s attention, Washington D.C. has a pretty good one too, which typically spans late March into early April. The best place to see it is the Tidal Basin, where over 3,000 trees are transformed with radiant blooms. And you can still get your obligatory selfie with the White House/Lincoln Memorial/National Mall while you're in town.

5. May: The Mighty Five

No idea what The Mighty Five is? We're talking about Utah 's wild landscape, which is connected by a series of five national parks— Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , Canyonlands , and Arches. There's also the iconic Monument Valley, which is located in the nearby Navajo nation; you've seen it on the silver screen in almost every John Wayne western and it hasn't changed an iota since. In all five destinations, notice massive sandstone formations, twisty slot canyons and dark skies bursting with stars that up the beauty ante.

6. June: The West Coast

Sound the road trip klaxon! California and the Pacific Northwest are calling. Head out in June to avoid the July 4th madness, when roads in the U.S. will be crammed with long weekenders on their way to family barbecues and baseball games, and take the whole month to discover the best of the West Coast. Whether you want to catch some rays in San Diego , forest bathe in Oregon , tour Seattle ’s street art or simply make the most of Vancouver 's least rainy month of the year, this slice of North America is as diverse as its days are long.

7. July: Alaska

July is a wonderful month to spot caribou, wolves and golden eagles in Denali National Park , as well as grizzly bears, who are busy hunting salmon in order to fatten up before hibernation. They also nibble on the season’s abundant berries—blueberries are particularly fat and juicy in Alaska—and you can taste them too on almost any hike and around the stunning Glacier Bay National Park .

8. August: Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island

At the far reaches of the northeast coastline of America is Acadia National Park , which covers much of Mount Desert Island (beautiful Bar Harbor is here, too) and beyond. Crashing Atlantic Ocean waves hit rocky beaches, massive granite rock formations loom and quiet forests, lakes and ponds await you here. Once you've experienced this achingly lovely island sanctuary, there are plenty of Maine 's famed lobster roll stands waiting near town ready to feed you the state's delicious crustacean.

9. September: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America's most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains is a place where the easygoing rhythm of the South combines with an outdoor lover's heaven. Hike in to see lovely waterfalls and expansive views filled with mountains and forests, fish for trout in a quiet stream (you'll need a permit) and peep at a riot of colors during the autumn foliage change. You might run into someone hiking the Appalachian Trail, too. More than 70 miles of that 2,190-mile path run through the national park.

10. October: New Mexico

There’s a lot more to New Mexico than desert and a certain Netflix show. Every October, Albuquerque hosts its eye-popping International Balloon Fiesta , where you can spot hundreds of technicolor hot air balloons as they make their spectacular ascent. With seemingly endless skies and epic sunrises, it’s become the world’s largest balloon festival and the most photographed event on Earth. Also make time to visit Santa Fe , in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains for a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and earth-colored historic adobe neighborhoods, plus a comprehensive Georgia O'Keefe Museum dedicated to her artistic legacy and American modernism.

11. November: Las Vegas

As the names of artists now getting residencies in Las Vegas get bigger and more relevant (like Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars), so does Sin City’s credibility as an entertainment destination. So do catch a show while you’re there but, since temperatures are pleasantly cool at this time of year, now is also the perfect time for exploring off-strip. Want geological beauty? Head to rouge-tinted Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area . Street art? Go downtown. Mafia stuff? Don’t miss the Mob Museum and its in-house distillery.

12. December: Miami

The Magic City is perhaps not a place you'd associate with art and culture and yet, it frequently hosts works and exhibitions from established international artists. But you don’t have to be an industry insider or even uber-rich to get in on the action: Plenty of fringe events happen outside of the main convention center at Miami Beach at the same time. Check out the public sculpture, and the many pop-ups, gallery events and installations that have led this to be dubbed "Art Week" by locals. In between, hit up South Beach for tanning and our very own Time Out Market Miami for grubbing. Welcome to Miami.

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Top 12 Places to Visit in the US

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

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

New York City

TripSavvy / Donghee Eim

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

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

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

Los Angeles

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

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

Washington, D.C.

Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

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

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

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

San Francisco

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

New Orleans

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

Asheville, North Carolina

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

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

Sedona and the Grand Canyon

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

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

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

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

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25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

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

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

25. Aspen [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

24. Atlanta [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

23. Yosemite National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

22. Portland [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

21. San Antonio [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

20. Savannah [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

19. Philadelphia [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

18. Sedona [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

17. San Diego [SEE MAP]

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

16. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

15. New Orleans [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

14. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

13. Boston [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

12. Miami [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

11. Seattle [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

10. Hawaii [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

9. Orlando [SEE MAP]

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

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

8. Washington DC [SEE MAP]

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

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

7. Los Angeles [SEE MAP]

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

6. Chicago [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

5. Yellowstone [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

4. Las Vegas [SEE MAP]

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

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

3. San Francisco [SEE MAP]

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

See also: Where to Stay in San Francisco

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

2. Grand Canyon [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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

1. New York City [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

June 1, 2017 at 7:02 am

Now I just want to go to visit New York City

May 12, 2017 at 9:05 pm

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

February 7, 2017 at 9:34 am

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

January 25, 2017 at 1:44 pm

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

January 3, 2017 at 12:52 pm

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

February 24, 2016 at 6:14 am

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

November 20, 2014 at 10:21 pm

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

November 13, 2014 at 4:55 am

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

May 20, 2014 at 7:52 am

i loved all these pictures, especially from Orlando

24 Best Places to Visit in the United States

Written by Lana Law Updated May 3, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Houston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches near Orlando, FL

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Museums in Seattle
Top-Rated Hikes near Seattle, WA

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

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

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

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

Read More: Best Coastal Towns in North Carolina

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

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

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

Read More: Best Places to Visit in New Mexico

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

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

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

Morning Glory Pool in Yellowstone National Park

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

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

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

Read More: Best Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park

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

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

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

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The 51 Best Places to Visit in the USA (all with photos)

Hannah champion.

January 18, 2019

While creating a bucket list often starts with adding destinations in far-flung corners of the globe, it’s always good to remember that there are plenty of incredible attractions right on your doorstep. It’s also worth remembering that just because you’ve been to a country, it certainly doesn’t mean you’ve seen it all.

Each country has a huge array of sights, activities, and cities to explore, and no more is this the case than with the US! You could easily create a bucket list of over 1000 with the USA alone! Here we’ve collated our 51 best places to visit in the USA so you can decide what to add to your own bucket list.

The Must See Cities in the USA

Visit new york.

Add to Bucket List Add to Bucket List Bucket List Add to Done List DONE

It would be amiss to have a USA bucket list without mentioning New York, New York, so why not simply start the list with the world-famous city? Home to Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building and the 9/11 Memorial, this concrete jungle offers a wealth of sights and activities to enjoy throughout the year. From freezing, snowy winters to balmy summer’s evenings, the busy Big Apple is constantly changing and evolving making it an amazing place to visit time and time again.

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Go to Washington DC

The compact US capital has played host to some of the most important moments in the country’s history, and visiting is a must for US citizens and travellers alike. The Capitol building, White House and Supreme Court are all iconic must-sees, and the Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian museums and the National Mall will keep visitors of all ages engaged and entertained. But it’s not all history and culture, DC also offers awesome nightlife, a delicious selection of all-American-eats and is even one of the best places in the country to see the beautiful cherry blossom in spring.

If you want to travel more often, or even travel internationally for the first time, you will want to have a look at our blog post: How to Travel on a Budget: the Ultimate Resource on Getting More For Your Money. Bookmark it and share it with friends and family. This guide could save you a lot of money!

See San Francisco

With its artsy-cool vibe, San Francisco has long graced the bucket lists of people worldwide. Not only is San Fran perfect for weekend visitors, with plenty of must-sees (think: Alcatraz, Pier 39, the Golden Gate Bridge and the wiggly turns of Lombard Street) but it also the gift that keeps on giving for those who choose to stay longer. The city is home to some incredible museums, unique architecture, a great cafe culture and an eclectic mix of inhabitants who always keeps things interesting!

Experience New Orleans

New Orleans is a melting pot of cultures thanks to its long and rich history and as such offers a wealth of cuisines, architecture, and music to enjoy. From the stunning buildings of the French Quarter to the city’s iconic jazz venues, you’ll find yourself loving the Big Easy in no time! Most famous for its epic Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans is the perfect place for music lovers and those that can’t resist a party. With outrageous costumes, vibrant street parties and more than a splash of colour, Mardi Gras in Louisiana is one event that is not to be missed.

Boston - The Roots of the Nation

Boston, Massachusetts is one of the oldest cities in the US which played a vital part in the American Revolution. Following the Freedom Trail, a 2.5km route through the city, allows you to take in a range of historic sites while learning about the roots of the nation and the changes that have taken place over the years. Boston is also home to a picturesque harbour, the peaceful green spaces of Boston Common, the quirky narrow lanes of North End and the boutiques and restaurants of Back Bay, enabling you to enjoy hours of entertainment in the city.

Enjoy Seattle

With some of the most amazing architecture in the whole of the country, Seattle is a must for the cities section of this bucket list. Get your heart racing with a walk around the top of the Space Needle, catch some cool, cult classics at the Museum of Pop Culture or gawp as the incredible glassworks at the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. While Seattle is famous for being the original home of Starbucks, it is also one of the best places to grab some other authentic bites such as a Seattle Dog, delicious doughnuts from General Porpoise Doughnuts or a cold brew coffee at the Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room.

Romantic Savannah

Often lauded as the most romantic city in the US, Savannah, Georgia features perfectly-preserved buildings, flourishing willows, and oaks and horse-drawn carriages that will make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. Take a tour through the pristine mansions, charming churches and meandering streets of the city to get a glimpse of this magical world. Even the Bonaventure Cemetery has an ethereal feel! Plus, the city is home to some cracking cuisine straight from the coast, and some bourgie boutiques so you can get your shopping fix.

Visit Portland, OR

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While both Portlands (Maine and Oregon) are worth a visit, Oregon’s largest city is truly a west coast wonder. The food and drink scene here is legendary, with everything from farm-to-table dining to street food secrets getting your mouth watering. Craft beer and creative cups of coffee keep you refreshed so you can spend your days exploring the city. Pop-up shops, regular festivals, and tax-free shopping, as well as a collection of museums, zoos, and parks are scattered all over the city to keep you entertained.

San Antonio, a Texan Jewel

An alternative to Austin and Dallas, San Antonio in Texas offers a snapshot of Latin America in the US. Influenced heavily by its neighbour, Mexico, San Antonio allows visitors to taste exquisite cuisine, witness unique LatAm-inspired art and take part in traditional festivals such as Fiesta in March, the city’s answer to Mardi Gras. Expect colour, culture and colonial history as you delve into the city’s history and heritage. Don’t miss an evening walk down by the San Antonio riverside; seeing what the stalls under the colourful umbrellas have on offer.

Visit Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee Shelby Street Bridge.

The famous home of country music, Nashville, Tennessee, is a must for anyone who loves a bit of Dolly, Elvis and Johnny Cash. This city offered insight and inspiration to these musical legends, and no visit to Nashville is complete without a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Nashville is still abuzz with live music today so check out bars, clubs, and theatres for a whole host of performances.

Sights and Monuments

Visit the white house.

Probably the most famous building in the country, the White House is truly recognisable and is every bit as impressive in person as it is in pictures. Not only can you take some photographs outside, but you can even visit the inside of this iconic house with a self-guided tour. You do have to book this tour weeks in advance though, so get prepping if you want to snap some selfies in the State Dining Room!

See the Wonders of the Grand Canyon

At 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide and over a mile deep, you can see why they call this canyon ‘grand’! Standing on the edge of this epic canyon you will feel impossibly small and somewhat insignificant! However, sometimes a little perspective is worth it, and that is definitely the case with Arizona’s Grand Canyon. Hike along the canyon’s ridges, kayak down the river or opt for a helicopter ride to get a glimpse of the sheer scale of this incredible natural wonder.

Mount Rushmore - See Some American History

Located in Black Hills South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is one of the country’s most famous sights. The huge granite sculptures of the Mount Rushmore Memorial depict four former US presidents (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln) and represent the country’s heritage and growth. Guests can explore the visitor centre to discover more about the country or simply stroll through the trails and tracks of the park.

Amazing Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the many beautiful ways of bridging the gap between Canada and the US. The three falls collectively (Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls) sprawl across the National Park and are all worth seeing. The thunder of the falls is palpable as 168,000 m3 (six million cubic feet) of water powers over the edge of the falls every minute! The falls are open 365 days a year, so there’s really no excuse not to visit.

Visit the Iconic Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty was given as a gift to the US by France as a representation of the country’s freedom. Despite taking years to build (due to funding issues) the site is now one of the most popular in the country. One of the best ways to see the Statue of Liberty is on a statue cruise that takes you across the New York Harbour to Liberty Island. You can also combine your trip to the Statue of Liberty with a visit to the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum to learn about the country’s heritage.

Enjoy the Chaos of Times Square

This bustling hub of videos, neon lights, taxis and tourists is a must for visitors to the Big Apple. Times Square is somewhat chaotic but holds a lot of character and is home to tons of shops and restaurants. With events and festivals held year-round as well as Broadway shows galore you can see why Times Square lies at the heart of the city that never sleeps! For the most epic NYE party be here to watch the ball drop at midnight!

Visit The National Mall

The National Mall is the heart of all things America with the Capitol building at one end and the White House at the other. The Smithsonian museums lie along the pristine green lawns, and the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument are must-sees. This is a popular area, especially in summer with school trips flocking here to soak up the atmosphere and learn about US history and politics.

Get Up Close to the Gateway Arch

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri is the world’s tallest arch and was built as a representation of the westward expansion of the United States. While it may simply look like a monument, it is actually a building, and you can take a tram ride to the top to enjoy epic views of the city. The base of the arch is home to an interactive museum which celebrations innovation and pioneering acts of great Americans and is perfect for a family day out.

View the Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign and the Walk of Fame are iconic spots for film and celebrity lovers. Despite the fact that the sign is just a selection of white, wooden/metal letters (originally used for real estate promotion) it has become renowned worldwide, and it is must when visiting LA. The walk of fame hosts stars for actors, singers, and other celebrities and you can spend a fun day out finding your favourites.

Visit the Ancient American Town of Taos Pueblo

Pueblo Indians of Arizona and New Mexico.

Taos, New Mexico is a stunning ancient pueblo that is home to a Native American community and has been for around 1000 years. The adobe buildings are in stark contrast to much of America’s architecture, and the town is a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark. While it is a tourist site, it is important to remember that this is also someone’s home, so respect and consideration is required at all times.

The Great American National Parks You Need to Visit

See the amazing yellowstone national park.

One of the most famous national parks, Yellowstone is a huge expanse of wilderness that spans the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Known for its interesting array of wildlife, including wolves, bison, and bears, Yellowstone is a must for animal lovers. The park is home to a wealth of trails for hikers and climbers and also boasts geothermal geysers including one named Old Faithful; a visitor favourite Add to Bucket List Add to Bucket List Bucket List Add to Done List See Old Faithful

Stunning Zion National Park

Located in southwest Utah, Zion National Park is renowned for its epic scenery, including the Zion Canyon, Virgin River, and the stunning Emerald Pools which feature flowing waterfalls and a lush verdant hanging garden. Zion is characterised by its red cliff faces and unique rock formations which give even the most advanced hikers a challenge!

Visit Badlands National Park

Not only does this national park have an awesome name, Badlands, but it also features incredible landscapes and wildlife. The rolling hills of the towering geological formations look as though they’ve been painted as a watercolour, with red, white and grey streaking across the precipices. The vast expanse of rock stretches as far as the eye can see, making it a great place for landscape photography.

Sequoia National Park - America Makes Things Big

Home to some of the biggest trees on the planet, the forest of Sequoia National Park is both dramatic and awe-inspiring. General Sherman, is officially the largest tree in the world stretching almost 275ft from the ground and over 100ft round! It’s hard to describe the size, so the only way to fathom it is to go and see for yourself. Standing next to one of these trees will make you feel minuscule! Add to Bucket List Add to Bucket List Bucket List Add to Done List Get your photo in front of a Sequoia

Visit the Everglades and See the Wildlife

Known for the crocs, Everglades National Park in Florida is a must for lovers of the great outdoors. With kayaking, fishing, hiking, and birdwatching to be enjoyed, the Everglades is a perfect option for a family vacation. This vast wetland is home to manatees, American crocodiles, and even the elusive Florida panther, so keep your eye out at all times as you never know what you might see! Add to Bucket List Add to Bucket List Bucket List Add to Done List The nearby Vintgar Gorge is also well worth a visit!

Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii

Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park offers exactly what you would expect: volcanoes! Located on Big Island, the park features two active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa which have been erupting continuously for decades. The park features a Crater Rim drive allowing you to enjoy epic views of the crater, looking out for steam vents as you pass by. Don’t miss the Jaggar Museum where you can learn all about volcanology and take in the impressive lookout over the Halema’uma’u Crater.

Enjoy Rocky Mountain National Park

The Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is one of the most popular parks in the country, known for its magnificent peaks and wild fauna roaming the grounds. Spanning over 400 square miles, it’s impossible to see the whole of the Colorado Rockies in one go. However, the second you stand on the edge of a pristine lake with a forest of pines and a towering mountain sprawling out in front of you, you’ll know you’ll be drawn back to Rocky Mountain NP again someday!

You Must Visit Yosemite National Park

Situated in the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite offers yet more breath-taking landscapes for nature seekers. Mountains, pines, sequoia trees and lakes pepper the view so every shot you take will be picture postcard perfect! Yosemite is also a favourite for slackliners who brave the Highline at Taft Point, teetering along the line with deep valleys below – watch if you dare!

Be Amazed at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park in Montana is ridiculously large, spanning over one million acres with over 700 miles of hiking trails! Just wow! This spectacular ecosystem deserves at least a few days of your trip to the US. The glacier lakes here are simply pristine, with turquoise waters contrasting perfectly with snowy mountain backdrops. While some of the hikes can be pretty strenuous, there are varieties for all levels meaning nobody will miss out on the epic views!

Visit Denali National Park in Alaska

With the highest peak in the US and over six million acres of land, Denali National Park in Alaska is a true wilderness. Wildlife here absolutely thrives and includes moose, wolves, caribou and both grizzly and black bears. Around 300 bears live in the park, so your chances of seeing some wildlife action here are high! Wonder Lake is another highlight, which perfectly reflects the peak of Denali Mountain in its still, crystalline waters making it a photo op like no other.

Iconic Beaches of the USA

Stop by south beach miami.

A celeb favourite, South Beach Miami is stylish, glamourous and popular thanks to its wealth of shops, bars, and restaurants that line the pristine seafront. With soft white sand and turquoise waters, South Beach offers everything you need from a coastal destination. Ocean Drive is a firm favourite due to its cool Art Deco architecture and buzzing nightlife that could keep you occupied until the early hours!

Go See Cape Cod

Cape Cod offers a different atmosphere, with more of a fisherman village vibe than a party scene. Quaint houses, shack-like restaurants serving up fresh seafood and little lighthouses adorn the landscape and make for a perfect summer getaway when the heat of the city gets too much. The sunsets here are just incredible, with the dipping sun creating the most amazing orange skies over the still, vast stretch of ocean.

Martha’s Vineyard - America's Playground

Just over the water from Cape Cod lies Martha’s Vineyard, an island retreat known as America’s affluent summer playground. While many of the main village houses are quaint, all-American style homes along the harbour, some of the mansions here are out of this world! The island features gorgeous sandy beaches such as Oak Bluffs and Edgartown where you can while away long summer days and a whole host of yummy seafood restaurants to make the most of your oceanside location.

Visit Venice Beach and Walk the Boardwalk

The boardwalk of Venice Beach is the place to be seen and is a favourite among young people. With Instagram-worthy murals, quirky shops and street performers galore you’ll never be bored. Witnessing the guys and gals working out at Muscle Beach is like being in another world as they push themselves to the limits in front of intrigued passers-by. If even looking at them working out is too much effort, head to one of the many bars, restaurants, and cafes lining the Boardwalk to cool down and refresh.

Holiday in Beautiful Maui

The beaches in Maui are what you’d expect on a calendar or vacation brochure. Golden sands, leaning palms, and clear, azure water will be the continual backdrop for your time in Hawai’i, with blue skies and blazing sunshine to boot! While there is plenty to do around Maui including waterfall hikes, snorkelling, and wine tasting, it’s also an excellent time to make the most of being away from it all and just spend time relaxing on the beach.

Chill in the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks islands of North Carolina make for an awesome beach getaway for those seeking something a little different. Situated in the Atlantic, these barrier islands create a sandy wall between the ocean and mainland and are now connected by roads and bridges making exploring the islands easier than ever. The connected sandbanks mean that Outer Banks offers over 100 miles of beach just begging to be discovered.

See the Stunning Views of Monterey

Monterey Bay in California has come a long way since the days of sardine packing and is now a hub of bars, shops, and restaurants located in coolly converted warehouses. While the fishermen still bring in their daily catch (meaning delicious seafood is always on the menu) the general feel is modern, fresh and fun. Monterey is a favourite for divers, kayakers and surfers too so don your swimmers or wetsuit and get in the water!

Vacation at Key West

The island of Key West is the southernmost point of the United States and is home to an array of both natural and man-made beaches. The palm-fringed beaches are pristine and with over 10 to choose from you’ll be able to find somewhere peaceful to spend your days. Sunset Key, as the name suggests, is the best place to enjoy a sundowner with hammocks, bean bags and tiki huts at your disposal. Stay at the Sunset Key Resort or dine at the Latitude Café for a delicious Caribbean dinner.

Visit Rugged Lanai

The island of Lanai in Hawaii is rugged, stunning and varied making it the perfect location for a beach retreat. Hulopoe Beach is an expanse of golden sand with great spots of swimming and snorkelling. On the north side of the island is an offshore shipwreck of a WWII tanker that is ready and waiting to be explored. If you’re lucky, you may be able to spot humpback whales and turtles off the coast!

Enjoy Santa Barbara, California

Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara in California has a distinctly European feel, with a temperate climate, Spanish-influenced architecture, vineyards, and a quaint harbour. The coastal area is great for a day trip as well as being a relaxing location to spend a few days or a full vacation. Enjoy a wander around the wharf, some hiking in the hills or treat yourself to some wine tasting and fine dining in some of the city’s top restaurants.

Amazing Experiences to Have in the United States

Be amazed at the northern lights in alaska.

Many people think you need to head to Europe to see the Northern Lights, but in actual fact, Alaska (and Canada) put on some pretty cool light shows too! The town of Fairbanks is a great place to start, with this (and everything above it) lying in the Arctic Circle you’ll be in the best location possible to see the Aurora Borealis. Follow the aurora forecast, wrap up warm and head out to find the elusive dancing green lights.

Vacation in Las Vegas

While Las Vegas may not be everybody’s cup of tea, it is certainly an experience to say the least. The crazy hotels, random restaurants, spectacular shows and rides to get your heart racing will have you entertained non-stop during your whirlwind vacation. If you’re a shopaholic, treat yourself to some designer gear in the high-end boutiques or head out to the outlet malls for some serious retail therapy.

Do a US Road Trip

If you don’t want to decide on just one US destination for your bucket list, why not add an all-American road trip to your list? Driving across the States can be one of the most fun and thrilling experiences, especially if you have no set plan! Whether you want to hit Route 66, visit some of the country’s most famous national parks (see above) or even visit every 50 states, make sure you stop off en route to try authentic cuisine, chat to locals and go off-roading for a real adventure.

Hike the Appalachian Trail

Hiking one of America’s epic walking trails is a good challenge for those who love nature and the great outdoors. Stretching over 2000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is not for the faint-hearted, but it will be a one of a kind experience that you’ll never forget. Make sure you’re prepared for the challenge and why not persuade someone to come along for the journey too?

Attend a Baseball, Basketball or Football Game

Sport is a big deal in America, with baseball, basketball, and football (not soccer) being the top sports. If you can catch a game at one of the world-class stadiums around the country, you’ll get a glimpse into American fan life. Whether you had a favourite team before or not, you certainly will now as you cheer on your new-found friends at their sport. Popcorn? Check! Soda? Check! Giant pointy hand thing? Check!

Spend a Day in a Disney Park

Enjoying a day or two (or three, four, five) at ‘The Happiest Place On Earth’ is an absolute must for those visiting the United States. The home of Micky Mouse is a wonder for both kids and adults alike with rides, restaurants and whole streets decked out in the most amazing decorations. Never before will you have been more excited to receive a paw print autograph or to snap a selfie with a princess! Get there early to avoid the queues, wear comfy shoes to pad around the parks all day and stay for the fireworks which are worth the entrance fees alone – you won’t mind that you’re exhausted at the end of it all!

Attend a World Famous American Festival

The US is home to some pretty awesome festivals, from Burning Man and Coachella to Electric Daisy Carnival and Mardi Gras. Whatever your taste in music there is a festival for you with hundreds flocking to locations around the country each summer to celebrate spirituality, cinema, music, and madness. Fancy dress is highly encouraged, a free spirit obligatory and general revelry is almost always guaranteed!

Go Skiing or Snowboarding in the USA

With some of the best ski runs in the world, it would be amiss not to add a winter wonderland experience to your US bucket list. From Colorado to Wyoming, Utah, and Montana there are plenty of states that offer incredible skiing and snowboarding. With fun toboggan rides, snowshoe hikes and a number of exquisite spa resorts, there is something for everyone to enjoy during the winter season.

Go to a NASCAR Race

NASCAR is a truly American event with colourful cars flying around the track at up to 180mph! If it’s your first time at a NASCAR event, get there early to enjoy all the build-up to the action and have a couple of beers before heading trackside. Your heart may be in your mouth as you watch the stock cars rally around the track, often colliding with each other en route but the excitement will undoubtedly have you on the edge of your seat. Whether you visit Dover, Talladega or Daytona, you’ll be in for a treat!

Do Some Wine Tasting in California's Napa Valley

Not only is Napa Valley one of the most beautiful destinations in the country but its wine is delicious too! The 450 sprawling vineyards of Napa Valley spread over 43,000 acres meaning you are spoilt for choice and the local restaurants serve up gourmet food that pairs perfectly as you quaff your local wine.

Number 51 - What is the Best of the USA for YOU?

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The 20 best places to travel in the u.s. in 2023, according to the experts.

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For the past three years, with borders closed around the globe, U.S. travel has provided Americans with much-needed solace—a tonic during a time of uncertainty and fear. We rediscovered national parks, we explored this country’s hidden shores and we found new appreciation for America’s wide open spaces.

Despite the fact that many international countries have reopened to travelers, domestic travel remains strong, according to the U.S. Travel Association —proving that there’s still a lot to discover close to home.

A view of Avila Beach, along the Central Coast of California, one of the best places to travel in ... [+] 2023.

So what are the best places to travel right now? Every year, I round up the best places to visit in America. Once again, I tapped into leading women travel experts and influencers to find out their favorite places to travel in the U.S. in 2023. I also opened my own little black book to reveal the destinations that are on my radar.

This year, the top choices for where to go span the country from coast to coast, ranging from seaside escapes to mountain hideaways to urban hot spots, with some surprises thrown in along the way. Compare these choices to 2022’s list of the best places to travel in America , and it’s clear that the U.S. is the travel gift that keeps on giving.

Road tripping in Phoenix, which is one of the best places to travel in the US in 2023.

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Chosen By : Lucee Santini is a travel writer and lifestyle blogger who has contributed to Huffington Post , SheBuysTravels and Newsbreak and is the chief editor and writer for MomJunky.com. She shares her adventures and tips on Instagram @ momjunky.com and @familytraveldestinations.

Why : Phoenix made headlines recently as the host of Superbowl LVII, the kickoff location of Taylor Swift’s tour and the home of the MLB Spring Training. But there’s so much to experience in Greater Phoenix in 2023—one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S.—not to mention the natural beauty that made it a must-visit destination in the first place. “The Valley of the Sun is known for sunny weather all year around, beautiful hikes and scenic landscapes,” says Lucee Santini, who is a big fan of spots like the Desert Botanical Garden , a 144-acre oasis in the middle of the desert.

The city is in the midst of a $23 million redesign of South Mountain Park and Preserve—America’s biggest urban park—that will culminate with the park’s 100th anniversary in 2024. “Stay at WorldMark Phoenix - South Mountain Preserve ,” says Santini. “It’s the perfect home base to explore nearby trails and catch an amazing show or exhibition.”

Over the next year, Phoenix will see the opening of several major resorts, including Moxy Phoenix Downtown (set in a 1920’s Luhrs building), The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie (overlooking Camelback Mountain) and the $1 billion VAI (complete with white-sand beaches, a 52,000-square-foot party island and the Mattel Adventure Park).

Some iconic properties are also getting overhauled. The Wigwam , an historic resort with luxury casitas and suites in the West Valley, will undergo a comprehensive renovation in 2023. Look for two expansive swimming pools, bocce and tennis courts, as well as an enhanced golf club with 54 holes of championship golf including two courses designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Meanwhile, JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa recently debuted an $80 million transformation and will soon be unveiling a reimagined AquaRidge Water Park, as well as a new Pan-Asian restaurant concept, Kembara.

The Phoenix metropolitan area’s food and wine scene is also exploding, with exciting entries like Chic Chef 77 (Arizona’s first Black-owned wine bar from celebrity chef Nik Fields) and Chilte (Mexican street food at the Grand Avenue Arts District’s new Egyptian Motor Hotel). The drinks scene is also making global headlines , thanks to trend-defining spots like Platform 18 and UnderTow , which have established a new brand of cocktail theater.

Talley Farms Vineyard in San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California.

Where to Go: Central Coast, California

Chosen By: Molly O’Brien is a freelance journalist.

Why: The Central Coast of California—stretching from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo—is undergoing a renaissance, with new and renovated hotels, expanded wine offerings and a burgeoning culinary scene, not to mention a unique vibe. “Something special just opens up inside of you when you're on the Central Coast,” says Molly O’Brien. “Perhaps it’s the warmth of the community that welcomes you, or the abundance of open space to explore, or maybe it’s the freshness of the ingredients used in the local dining and drinks scene—you can feel yourself almost instantly relax and let go of your stresses.”

In Santa Barbara—which is also known as America’s very own Riviera—the new tech-driven boutique hotel, Drift Santa Barbara , officially opened its doors in early 2023 in a restored 1920s building, offering contactless check-in, a third-wave coffee shop and eatery (Dawn) and a craft bar (Dusk) inspired by Mexican heritage. The Steward , a new Tribute Portfolio Marriott Hotel, is set to make its debut in May. Set on nearly five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, this all-suite boutique hotel has a deep commitment to sustainability, from eliminating single-use plastics to using staff uniforms made of vegan materials.

The area’s art and food scene is also buzzing. The former Bellosguardo estate will open to the public for the first time later in 2023, while the Urban Wine Trail is welcoming numerous new tasting rooms, including La Lieff Wines and Frequency Wine Co. Among Santa Barbara's culinary newcomers are the Rosewood Miramar Beach's AMA restaurant (which serves authentic Japanese sushi in a beautiful setting) and Augie's tequila bar and restaurant (which features the largest selection of tequilas and mezcals on the West Coast, including local agave spirits).

There’s lots of other exciting news in 2023 throughout the Central Coast—from the latest American Viticultural Area , which is growing in size, to new restaurants like the Italian-inspired Cielo (opening in Atascadero) and Antigua Brewing Company (set to open in San Luis Obispo). The wine-tasting destination of Paso Robles now boasts a new Michelin star at Six Test Kitchen and the town will soon be home to two Nomada Hotel Group properties: the Farmhouse and River Lodge, offering easy access to the quaint downtown area. What’s old is also new: In the once forgotten frontier town of Pozo, the Nomada Hotel Group is transforming the iconic Pozo Saloon into a modern day travel escape with Airstreams, glamping tents, RV hookups for sprinter vans, outdoor soaking tubs and a distillery.

Exploring San Francisco.

Where to Go: San Francisco, California

Chosen By: Emily Carmichael is the managing editor of Fifty Grande .

Why: The City by the Bay is buzzing this year, thanks to an array of fresh concepts in hospitality, food, technology, green spaces and sustainability. “With all the Silicon Valley distress, people may be tired of hearing about SF at this point, but if there’s one thing they should pay attention to, it’s the city’s leadership in sustainability. It made our sustainability-slanted list of best destinations in 2023,” says Emily Carmichael.

Exciting openings include the Hearst Hotel from Auberge Resorts (which is transforming an iconic building into a lavish space that blends tradition and innovation) and the LINE Hotel San Francisco (a contemporary interpretation of the area’s historic architecture with a landscaped rooftop solarium that has panoramic city views).

Additionally, the recently opened Presidio Tunnel Tops , designed by James Corner Field Operations (the firm behind New York City’s High Line), is providing the city with an abundance of space to explore and relax among 14 acres of new national park land and panoramic views of the Bay.

The culinary scene is also red-hot. “It’s not hard to find really delicious food here that emphasizes sustainability or local sourcing like that of Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese or Lolo,” says Carmichael. “There’s also the Japanese Tea Garden and picnics in Dolores Park. San Francisco is just a great place to eat and be outdoors, fog be damned.”

Then there’s the influence of technology. Joining the growing NFT phenomenon is SHŌ , a two-story culinary and entertainment nightlife experience that will debut in downtown San Francisco in fall 2023. The concept will include a restaurant and rooftop Sky Lounge, as well as a private membership club with the purchase of an NFT.

Overlooking the heated outdoor pool at the Grand Hyatt Vail.

Where to Go: Vail, Colorado

Chosen By: Laura Begley Bloom is a travel expert and the author of this column.

Why: Sixty years ago, a group of visionaries decided to open a ski resort at Vail Mountain that would eventually revolutionize the industry and help make this former mining town a must-visit not only for the jet set but for nature lovers looking for year-round adventures. As the mountain hits its 60th anniversary, Vail has a lot to celebrate in 2023.

A big headliner is Camp Hale , President Biden’s first national monument. The groundbreaking new monument on the outskirts of town honors this area’s original dwellers, the Ute people, as well as the Army’s 10th Mountain Division, which helped liberate Europe in World War II and used to train here. Plus, there are 53,804 acres to explore with mountain biking, guided hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing and overnight excursions to the nearby 10 th Mountain Division Huts. (Delaware North recently announced the acquisition of Nova Guides, an outdoor recreation and adventure tour company based at Camp Hale.)

In other feel-good news, Vail Resorts has reached 100% renewable electricity not only in Vail itself, but across all of its North American ski resorts. It’s part of this trailblazing company’s Commitment to Zero effort to reach a zero net operating footprint by 2030. Vail has also built two new lifts at Wildwood and paired up with the local 10th Mountain Whiskey distillery to create a pair of limited-edition bourbons in honor of the anniversary.

In a town where restaurants, lounges and hotels are always innovating, the hot dining reservation is the private gondola experience at Alpenrose , while Chasing Rabbits is shaking things up with its a unique entertainment venue that includes dining, an arthouse cinema, a cocktail-forward speakeasy and more.

Set at the base of Vail Mountain along the revered fly-fishing waters of Gore Creek, Grand Hyatt Vail is also pulling out all the stops for its own milestone 40th anniversary. New executive chef Pascal Coudouy is reimagining the alpine menu at the fine dining restaurant Gessner, while the Yoshimi pop-up restaurant has been so popular that it will soon be replaced with a new permanent sushi restaurant. And the hotel has introduced plenty of memorable moments, from an après ski Moët Yurt to Colorado’s first and only Moët & Chandon champagne vending machine. Even dogs get spoiled at the summertime Yappy Hour.

Skytop Mountain House in Bailey, Colorado

Where to Go: Bailey, Colorado

Chosen By: Kathryn O’Shea-Evans is a travel and design writer and co-author of the new book Lodge: An Indoorsy Tour of America’s National Parks (Gibbs Smith, April 2023), with a foreword by Ken Burns.

Why: “Colorado locals like me know the truth: Sometimes, you’ll get stuck in crazy-making, Los Angeles-worthy traffic on 1-70 for hours just trying to get into the mountains for a ski day or alpine hiking adventure,” says Kathryn O’Shea-Evans.

But O’Shea-Evans and her husband recently discovered a dreamy alternative far from the madding crowds: Bailey, Colorado. “It’s an easy one hour drive from downtown Denver on Highway 285 and chockablock with so many mountain thrills that it feels like you’re in an undiscovered corner of Europe,” says O’Shea-Evans.

To get into nature, O’Shea-Evans recommends Deer Creek Trail . “If you want to soak up a peaceful mountain forest and take a short, easy stroll along a rushing creek, this is the spot,” she says. Another favorite location: Wellington Lake . “Open year-round and a go-to for the region’s anglers, it’s stocked twice a year with fish like rainbow and palomino trout,” she says. To delve into regional history, McGraw Memorial Park is a must. “The 20-acre creekside park is home to a historic homestead from the 1870s, Keystone railroad bridge and Shawnee School,” says O’Shea-Evans.

Other top vacation spots include Aspen Peak Cellars , set on the banks of the South Platte River (“don’t miss the charcuterie board, fresh-baked baguette with Tuscan olive oil and authentic Swiss Cheese fondue”) and the PCCP Resale Boutique (“an entirely volunteer-run shop that’s a treasure trove of secondhand finds, all at amazing prices—whether you’re looking for wardrobe staples or fun kids toys”).

In fact, O’Shea-Evans loves Bailey so much that she and her husband bought a modern vacation house and turned it into a luxe short term rental, Skytop Mountain House . “It’s got a prime panorama over Bandit Peak and Rosalie Peak,” she says. “When we’re vacationing with our son up there, we always, always see wildlife—from elk to moose—and never experience a traffic jam. It’s Colorado the way it was meant to be…just don’t tell anybody about it.”

The clear waters of Florida's Henderson State Park.

Where: Destin-Fort Walton Beach, Florida

Chosen By: Kate Schweitzer is a Chicago-based freelance travel writer and mom of two. Follow her on Instagram @kateschweitzer .

Why: Family-friendly Destin-Fort Walton Beach offers near-perfect weather year-round, a growing hotel scene, rich ecotourism that the destination is working hard to protect, plus “a fishing community so vibrant that the beach town has come to be known as ‘the world’s luckiest fishing village,’” says Kate Schweitzer.

Set on the Gulf of Mexico, Destin provides travelers with an array of immersive and educational activities such as artificial reefs for snorkeling and diving, educational beach walks to learn more about sea turtles and emerald green waters where dolphins roam freely in their natural habitat. To protect and restore the local sea life, the destination has introduced a range of projects including new sea turtle lighting initiatives, the continental United States’ first ever Fishing Aggregating Device and The Emerald Coast Open and Lionfish Removal & Awareness Day Festival to promote effectively removing the invasive species from the Gulf.

“Visitors can also foster their love of marine life with a visit to Destin’s Gulfarium C.A.R.E. Center , which promotes the rehabilitation and release of stranded sea turtles,” says Schweitzer. “My kiddos loved the marine-biologist-led tour just as much as setting sail on a trimaran in search of dolphins.”

Destin is also home to a buzzing gulf-to-table seafood scene, including spots like Lulu’s (owned by Jimmy Buffett’s little sister Lucy), Rockin Tacos and Brotula's Seafood House . “In fact, do some good and order up whatever lionfish—an invasive species that prey on the area’s native fish population—is on the menu,” says Schweitzer. “Destin truly is a Florida hidden gem, and you’ll be so glad you discovered it.”

A waterfront view of St. Pete, Florida.

Where to Go: St. Pete, Florida

Chosen By: Terry Ward is a Florida-based travel writer whose work appears in CNN, National Geographic, Lonely Planet and the Washington Post, among many other outlets. Follow her along her journey on Twitter and Instagram at @TerryWardWriter.

Why: “St. Pete presents one of Florida’s best mixes of a cool and lively urban downtown with beautiful beaches right nearby,” says Terry Ward. “The town is known for its art scene—from the murals everywhere to Salvador Dali and Renaissance masterworks in museums—but it remains delightfully casual and approachable at every level, too.”

With 35 miles of uninterrupted coastline including some of Florida’s top-rated beaches and a booming arts and culture scene, it’s no surprise that St. Pete is popping on travelers’ radars. The Dalí Museum continues to offer unique and innovative exhibits that explore multi-sensory, immersive experiences for all types of travelers and is a must visit when in the destination.

Also appealing: “It’s an LGBTQ+ haven and home to the state’s largest Pride parade every year,” says Ward. “And the new St. Pete Pier has become a center for gathering all year round, whether at a pop-up roller rink, among the pelicans and anglers casting out line at its tip or while enjoying sprawling views of downtown and Tampa Bay from a rooftop Tiki bar washed with salty breezes.”

This year is bringing big changes in the hospitality scene, including major renovations to the iconic Vinoy Resort & Golf Club and hot new hotels popping up all around town. The EDGE District is welcoming its first lifestyle property, the Moxy Hotel by Marriott , while Mint House is set to open in the district in June 2023, offering apartment-style accommodations. Additionally, the AC Hotel St. Petersburg by Marriott opened earlier this year.

And when it comes to soaking in St. Pete’s annual 361 days of sunshine, it doesn’t always happen at the beach. This year the 75-mile Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail Loop is being completed with a 6.7-mile addition. The multi-use pathway stretches from Tarpon Springs to St. Pete with connections to coastal communities along the way, making it a great way to explore the area.

Exploring Savannah, Georgia.

Where to Go: Savannah, Georgia

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

Why: A charming southern escape, the “Hostess City” of Savannah is a favorite of travel writer Melissa Klurman for its rich history—the entire downtown is a National Historic Landmark; its 22 park squares, including the illustrious Forsyth Park of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fame; and, of course, its numerous regional culinary delights.

Despite its many allures, Klurman says, Savannah’s live music scene has been a bit under the radar. “Savannah is seemingly always in the shadow of Nashville and Austin. That’s all about to change though,” says Klurman.

This year, the city got a new entertainment venue, Enmarket Arena, bringing big name acts to a 9,500 seat arena. That comes on the heels of the opening of the Plant Riverside District, an entertainment zone that debuted during the pandemic.

Even more enticing is the vibrant Savannah Music Festival , a 17-day celebration of stellar live jazz, blues, folk, global roots and classical music. It’s an easy-to-attend (and enjoy) concert series, says Klurman, who also notes that tickets start at wallet friendly prices of just $31. “You can dip into indoor and outdoor performances, ticketed big name draws like Buddy Guy, or smaller lunchtime events to get a flavor of this southern festival,” says Klurman. “It’s been a local favorite for more than 30 years, but I’m betting that with the new focus on Savannah as a truly notable music destination, that the Savannah Music Festival will be at the top of music lovers’ lists in the coming years.”

A rendering of the Longfellow Hotel, which will open this summer in Portland’s historic West End ... [+] neighborhood.

Where to Go: Portland, Maine

Chosen By: Born and raised in Maine, Vanessa Santarelli is the founder of Your Maine Concierge (the state’s first custom guided-experience company) and co-host of the Maine Life TV show .

Why: “One could visit Portland for a week and still only scratch the surface of all that Maine’s largest city has to offer,” says Vanessa Santarelli.

From fine dining to local seaside eats, Portland has more restaurants per capita than any other city in the country besides San Francisco. Earlier this year, Per Se and Eleven Madison Park alums opened Twelve to rave reviews. Some other notable spots include The Danforth (a restaurant and cocktail bar with sleek interiors by the Death & Co team), Tandem (a bakery and coffee shop in a former gas station), Crispy Gai (“a locals’ hot spot where bartender Arvid Brown’s twist on the classic daiquiri with Thai basil is not to be missed,” says Santarelli). Miyake also just reopened after having been closed for years due to Covid. “Chef Masa’s signature hamayaki dish alone will make you want to plan your return trip to Maine before the check gets to the table,” says Santarelli.

Looking for a quintessential Maine experience? “Pop across the bridge to South Portland for local oysters on the half shell, ceviche, smoked trout and salmon toast at SoPo Seafood Market and Raw Bar , paired with a local craft beer like Patina from Austin Street Brewery , on their way to a casual, yet breathtakingly scenic lunch of delicious Maine lobster rolls on the no-frills picnic tables at the Lobster Shack at Two Lights, watching the sailboats and fishing vessels cruise by,” says Santarelli. “After lunch, walk in the footsteps of famed painter Winslow Homer by scheduling a private studio tour with the Portland Museum of Art on the ocean cliffs in Scarborough that inspired many of his most admired works.”

This year will also bring exciting hotel news: Designed by the same folks that did the acclaimed Lake House on Canandaiga , Longfellow Hotel will open this summer in Portland’s historic West End neighborhood. The property will be the first independent, full-service hotel to open in Portland in 20 years, and is the namesake of famed Portland poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Owned and operated by two lifelong Maine brothers, the hotel reinterprets Maine’s wild, rugged beauty into a sophisticated, calming oasis in the heart of Portland.

Another new hot spot: The Washington Baths , a design-forward Scandinavian style public bath house. This year will also mark the 200th anniversary of the first steamship to Portland from Boston, which started regular passenger service between the two cities and helped transform Maine into “Vacationland.”

A Sand Dune Trail in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Traverse City, Michigan

Chosen By: Erica Zazo is a freelance outdoor and travel writer based in Chicago. She often writes about lesser-known hiking trails and outdoor adventures across the Midwest.

Why: For an underrated destination to add to your 2023 bucket list, look no further than waterfront Traverse City, located on the Northwest side of Michigan. The destination is the perfect blend of small-town charm, mixed with elevated offerings in the cultural and culinary space, such as Modern Bird (from a husband and wife duo who trained in Michelin-level kitchens) and Dennos Museum Center (with the largest collection of Inuit art in the country).

“As a Michigan native, I can’t say enough about my love of Traverse City,” says Erica Zazo. “I’m a huge fan of going on outdoor adventures throughout the region, including kayaking and fly fishing on the Boardman River, biking through downtown, hiking on Old Mission Peninsula and boating in the Grand Traverse Bay.”

One of this lesser-known destination’s claims to fame is that it is the country’s Cherry Capital: Visitors can stroll through the cherry blossom trees in springtime and celebrate the region’s favorite crop at the National Cherry Festival in July. Traverse City is also home to a hidden wine gem: the Traverse Wine Coast . With its location on the 45th parallel, the region lines up with prestigious wine regions in Europe and has two unique areas climatically moderated by the massive waters of Lake Michigan: The Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula .

This is also beer country. “I’m a big Michigan craft beer fan, and visiting Farm Club north of downtown Traverse City is one of my favorite places to drink local beer,” says Zazo. “They have an amazing food menu, impressive brews and an unbeatable view from their amazingly beautiful taproom that oozes with cozy modern cabin vibes.” For a bike-and-brew adventure, Zazo recommends a ride along the Leelanau Trail, a 17-mile paved bike path that passes right by Farm Club and stretches all the way to Suttons Bay.

Lastly, Traverse City is a destination for all seasons—whether it’s skiing and winter sports at Crystal Mountain Resort, leaf peeping in the fall, or exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in the spring and summer. For a great place to stay, the Alexandra Inn will debut this summer on a private beach along East Grand Traverse Bay. Each of the 32 guest rooms will have soaker tubs and glass-faced balconies with stunning water views.

Up-and-coming Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

Where to Go: Mississippi

Why: The Magnolia State has everything a traveler could want in 2023, from a cutting-edge culinary scene to buzzing small towns to incredible natural beauty.

In Hattiesburg, take in over 50 pieces of art on the public art trail, tuck into the Hattiesburg Pocket Alley Pocket Museum (a 48×36-inch window display filled with a monthly rotating collection of objects) and thrift your heart out at the Lucky Rabbit , which even has glassblowing demonstrations.

Other hidden-gem towns include Waveland (the only community of the Gulf Coast that prohibits commercial buildings on its beachfront), Bay St. Louis (which has a quaint downtown filled with art galleries and antique shops) and Diamondhead (known for its golf scene and some of the best greens on the coast.

Mississippi has also carved out a signature culinary culture, with high-end dining by celebrity chefs to farm-to-table spots to no-frills establishments. In historic downtown Ocean Springs, Vestige offers a contemporary American menu paired with inspiration of the flavors and techniques of Japan, while at Elvie’s in Jackson, chef Hunter Evans channels his passion for food and hospitality learned in his grandmother Elvieretta’s New Orleans kitchen. The Delta is also known for tamales, and the easiest way to experience this beloved snack is by following the Hot Tamale Trail .

When it comes to nature, Quapaw Canoe Company runs daytrip and overnight wilderness customized expeditions on the Lower Mississippi River via its Back Waters, Bayous, Oxbows and Flood Plain. The Mississippi also offers great birding throughout its forests and sandy beaches, and the Mississippi Coastal Birding Trail helps guide visitors to identifying over 40 birding sites identified by local birders.

Mississippi’s lodging ranges from forest retreats to historic inns and everything in between. The Roost in Ocean Springs is a restored boutique hotel located within walking distance of the beach and the eclectic downtown. Set on 26 acres, the Monmouth Historic Inn in Natchez was originally built in 1818 and is now a National Historic Landmark.

Kansas City, Missouri's downtown skyline with Union Station.

Where to Go: Kansas City, Missouri

Chosen By: Anna Petrow is a Kansas City-based culinary, travel and lifestyle photographer and regular contributor to The New York Times, Travel + Leisure and Fathom .

Why: “Kansas City’s culture includes a unique blend of the creative and the culinary,” says Anna Petrow. “A city positioned in the heartland, our chefs and farmers were among the first in the country to quietly lead the farm to table movement.”

Now, Kansas City is having its moment, thanks in part to people who genuinely care about where their food comes from. “You see that care come to life in a creative way in everything from cocktails to chocolate handcrafted in KC,” says Petrow. “Christopher Elbow ’s confections have gained a place on the national stage, while local liquor brands like J. Rieger & Co. and Mean Mule have quickly won the hearts of Kansas Citians through both innovation and homage to the heritage of our city, which eschewed prohibition in favor of speakeasies and jazz, earning us the nickname ‘Paris of the Plains.’”

Another hallmark of this city is that it’s a place that values community over competition. “You see this all the time, from restaurants supporting each other’s new ventures, to coffee shops leading the charge for community initiatives,” says Petrow. One person who embodies this spirit: Jackie Nguyen, owner of Vietnamese coffee shop Cafe Cà Phê . “Her shop has become a home for artists, organizers and dreamers,” says Petrow. “Rarely a week goes by when they aren’t hosting a culture workshop or fundraiser for a fellow small business inventor—true advocacy.”

All of this feeds into the general spirit of support for the arts, including First Fridays in the Crossroads , open gallery nights, street art festivals that draw big crowds, open-air barbecue competitions in the summer and institutions like the beloved American Jazz Museum . “Great food and drink are never far behind,” says Petrow. Case in point? “KC’s most anticipated brewery, Black-founded and owned Vine Street Brewing , will be opening near the museum this year,” says Petrow. “So go ahead and book a flight to our new airport—your tastebuds will thank you.”

A nighttime view of Atlantic City's waterfront.

Where to Go: Atlantic City, New Jersey

Chosen By: Andrea Doyle , a journalist with Skift Meetings.

Why: “Atlantic City is set to have a banner 2023 and I will be a frequent visitor,” says Andrea Doyle. America’s Playground (as this beachside city is called) has seen significant reinvestment into the destination over the last several years, including multi-million dollar hotel renovations, game-changing restaurants and all-new attractions.

“There are so many new features coming online that I am excited to experience,” says Andrea Doyle. “I am looking forward to dining at Nobu , which is set to open this year, enjoying a show at Spiegelworld and checking out a few of the many top-name concerts featured this summer.”

When it arrives at Caesars in Atlantic City with a brand new production of “The Hook” in summer 2023, Spiegelworld is set to be the planet’s premier purveyor of submersive entertainment. Also bringing new life to the destination: the highly-anticipated $55 million rebrand and remodel of Borgata’s Water Club to MGM Tower. Adding to the excitement: Island Waterpark at Showboat Atlantic City , which will be the largest indoor waterpark in the country and will feature state-of-the-art surf machines creating life-size waves and the largest custom aqua forms in the world.

And of course, there are the tried-and-true favorites that continue to deliver. “On getaways with my girlfriends as well as my book club, we enjoy shopping, dining at prestigious restaurants, spa treatments at wellness centers like Exhale Spa + Bathhouse at Ocean and dancing the night away at Boogie Nights at Tropicana ,” says Doyle.

Niagara Falls on a summer day.

Where: Niagara Falls, New York

Chosen By: Michele Herrmann, Travel, Culinary and Lifestyle Freelance Writer and Content Creator

Why: Niagara Falls is a bucket-list destination for people from all over the world, thanks to iconic attractions such as the Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds . Founded in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park has always been a point of interest for visitors to the Falls, and now a new $46 million Welcome Center opening later this spring will feature sustainable elements, hands-on exhibits and indigenous history to enrich the experience.

“The New York State side of Niagara Falls has really seen a lot of growth and revitalization,” says Michele Herrmann. “From establishments such as Wine on Third, to the new Visitor’s Center, there’s a lot going on. Other sites to visit include the Aquarium of Niagara and the Niagara Power Vista.”

Nature is the focal point of any visit to Niagara Falls USA, and the new Niagara Hiking Company offers guided day hikes into the Niagara Gorge, with scenic vantage points and narrated history of the area.

A short walk from Niagara Falls, visitors can stay at the Red Coach Inn , celebrating its 100 th anniversary in 2023. The historic hotel overlooks the spectacular Upper Rapids of the Niagara River. Also located within walking distance of Niagara Falls: the recently renovated voco The Cadence Hotel . Rooms have balconies where guests can kick up their feet and enjoy a glass of wine from one of the many local Niagara wineries .

Oklahoma City's Bricktown neighborhood at dusk.

Where to Go: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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

Why: “Oklahoma City is not often at the top of dream destinations for travelers, but 2023 is the year that will change,” says Kay Kingsman. “Other cities around the country may get the colloquial title of ‘weird’ or ‘quirky,’ but Oklahoma City, also called OKC for short, flies under the radar for its unconventional attractions and locally curated art scene.”

The Bradford House boutique hotel in uptown is a new staple to OKC hospitality. “It offers guests unique guest rooms, delightful afternoon tea, jazz nights with regional musicians, and even weekly French classes,” says Kingsman. “It’ll be hard to leave your cozy hotel room, but once you do, check out two of the most unique museums you'll ever come across: the American Banjo Museum and the American Pigeon Museum . While both are seemingly random, visitors will learn how both pigeons and banjos were integral to the foundation of modern American culture.”

Be sure to round out your cultural enrichment with a trip to the newly opened First Americans Museum . “It explains the decolonized history of the Americas through the lens of the continent’s Indigenous peoples,” says Kingsman.

There are other amazing things to do in OKC beyond museums. “Have a psychedelic experience at Factory Obscura and dine at the award-winning Grey Sweater restaurant,” says Kingsman. “Oklahoma City is also a fantastic road trip stop, as it lies along Route 66, one of the strangest, but also most artistic, highways in the country.”

Whether you are just passing through or staying a while, be sure to also add on at least a day trip to the nearby city of Tulsa. “Tulsa is a destination all on its own, but if you only have time for one activity, be sure to join the eye-opening Greenwood Black Wall Street tour ,” says Kingsman. “Visitors will learn the seedy reality of how government entities systemically destroy and displace Black neighborhoods, and also the steps on what they can do to take action.”

The skyline of Portland, Oregon, with Mt. Hood in the distance.

Where to Go: Portland, Oregon

Why: “Like a phoenix from the ashes, Portland, Oregon is reemerging in 2023 with unprecedented growth in the food and beverage scene, both in quality and variety,” says Kay Kingsman.

Awarded “best foodie city of 2022” by WalletHub, Portland is leading the industry in innovative menus representing cuisines from every corner of the globe. “One especially exciting trait of Portland’s new trajectory is how many of the new and rising businesses are owned and operated by BIPOC and LGBTQA+ trailblazers, reinforcing that a visit to Portland can suit every traveler,” says Kingsman.

With so many great food options, it might be a little overwhelming for first-time visitors. Kingsman’s top recommendations: Matutitna or Masala Lab for breakfast, followed by Nong’s Khao Man Gai or Heavy Plays for lunch. “End the night with a bang at República or Kann , both James Beard-nominated restaurants,” says Kingsman. Or grab a bite at the establishments that made Portland a household name in the culinary world: food carts. “There are literally hundreds of food carts, and for the most part you can’t go wrong, but a few of my personal favorites are Balong , Erica’s Soul Food , Kim Jong Grillin and Speed-o Cappuccino ,” says Kingsman.

How to fill your time between meals? “Get active at a few of the new inclusive fitness studios like Flow in the City or join in for a community run hosted by Deadstock Coffee Roasters ,” says Kingsman. “You can also go at your own pace with a stroll through the Portland Japanese Garden , which added a new tea cafe, or explore the city on an urban hike and pop into a few locally owned small businesses for a little souvenir shopping—sales tax free.”

Exploring Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a 16th-century Spanish fort in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Where to Go: Puerto Rico

Why: Powerfully rebounding from Hurricane Irma and Maria in 2017, Puerto Rico is sprinting full speed ahead into 2023—and beyond—with new avenues to enjoy while remaining loyal to its Boricuan identity. “One of the first things visitors may notice is the variety of lodging options that directly benefit the community, like the Dreamers Welcome , a new LGBTQIA-owned hospitality group co-founded by Puerto Rican artist and designer Roy Delgado,” says Kay Kingsman.

From surfing, to hiking, to just suntanning near the lagoons, Puerto Rico is a destination of natural beauty, with miles of beautiful coastlines and the only rainforest National Park in America. “For the nautically inclined, there are also multiple islands off the coast with soft white sand and crystal clear waters for snorkeling,” says Kingsman. “Or grab a kayak and waft through one (or all!) of the three bioluminescent bays.”

Other nature highlights include the reopening of the renowned Camuy Caves , known for its extensive network of natural lime caves and underground waterways waiting to be explored. And then there’s the state-of-the-art self-sustainable company Earthship PR , which offers educational tours and short-term rentals of its off-grid and sustainable homes built with recycled materials

Along with the island’s natural beauty, Puerto Rico’s cultural attractions are also a big draw. “Companies like Higuaca Adventours and Sojourn offer accessible Taino and Afro-Borinken heritage tours,” says Kingsman. Coupled with the worldwide explosion of Puerto Rican musicians such as Bad Bunny, Rauw Alejandro, and Villano Antillano, the island is experiencing incredible growth in the art scene as well. “Be sure to check out community art collectives such as El Local en Santurce to get the latest pulse on the creative events in Puerto Rico,” says Kingsman.

There are also a number of new restaurants blooming across the island. “A food tour with Flavors of San Juan Food or Spoon is a must-do to get a taste of some of the best flavors Puerto Rico has to offer,” says Kingsman. “If tours aren’t your style, you can DIY your own culinary adventure by following recommendations by local Puerto Rican food influencer Come Con Juan .”

Nneya Richards in Rhode Island's South County.

Where to Go: South County, Rhode Island

Chosen By: Nneya Richards is a speaker and travel blogger at ’N A Perfect World , a curated intersection of travel, food, fashion and geopolitics inspired by the global-citizen lifestyle of the millennial. Richards aims to empower young people, especially those of color, to travel, as she believes it is through exploring the world that we will bridge cultural gaps and misunderstandings.

Why: “It’s just over three hours away from NYC on a fast, comfortable Amtrak ride. But shhh… don’t tell the New Yorkers,” says Nneya Richards. “During the summer season, getting to South County, Rhode Island is easier than getting to the Hamptons. And you’re going to want to head here all year round.”

South County, Rhode Island is on the list for 2023, thanks to all its secret diversions and some not-so secret celebrity fans. “You may know the town of Watch Hill from Taylor Swift’s Last Great American Dynasty, ” says Richards. “Or maybe it’s because Watch Hill is home to the oldest Flying Horse carousel in the country, dating back to 1754.”

Also going for South County: “There’s something for everyone,” says Richards. “There are laidback surf town vibes in places like Narragansett, and you’ll find the best seafood in the country at restaurants like Matunuck Oyster Bar , and cuisine that could easily be just at home in a hotspot in Mexico City at Dalia , a waterfront Mexican restaurant at Ocean House.”

There’s plenty of hotel news in South County, including The Cottage Collection (new accommodations from the acclaimed by Ocean House), The General Stanton Inn (an historic property in Charlestown that’s reopening in May) and Surf Shack Bed & Breakfast (a funky inn coming in late 2023 in Narragansett).

Other new exciting spots include Double Barrel Steak by David Burke , which recently debuted at The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences and Seaside Shadows ghost tours in Westerly (new since last fall). And coming in 2024: Charleston’s Ninigret Park will be home to new Troll works by the famed Danish artist Thomas Dambo.

Best of all: “It’s one of those pockets of peace that the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic can do so well,” says Richards. “And the sunrises and sunsets are just marvelous.”

The clear nighttime skies in Badlands National Park in South Dakota.

Where to Go: South Dakota

Why: Besides its six national parks, 63 state parks and recreation areas, iconic monuments and scenic byways, South Dakota has plenty of new reasons to add the state to your travel bucket list in 2023.

In the legendary Badlands, the Oglala Lakota Living History Village is a new entry point to the beautiful landscape and the past and present culture of Lakota Country. Another new adventure in the heart of Lakota Country: a Buffalo Road Vacation at the legendary Farlee Ranch on the Cheyenne River Reservation, which provides visitors with an understanding of the life of Native Americans. This year also marks the 75 th year anniversary of the Crazy Horse monument—which is still being constructed and honors the Lakota leader who bravely defended the Lakota people’s way of life.

In Custer State Park, the new Bison Center brings an all-bison experience to the park’s scenic drive through the southern prairie, educating future generations on the importance of these majestic animals through dynamic interpretive displays. For a new way to see the Black Hills, the Custer-based Overland America specializes in off-road adventures in Jeep and Overland Trailer rentals.

Another South Dakota must-see for landscapes, tribal history and rich culture: the Native American Scenic Byway , which takes travelers through the lands of the Yankton, Crow Creek, Lower Brule, Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Sioux Tribes.

South Dakota’s culinary scene might also surprise you, especially in Sioux Falls, which is home to spots like The Treasury (an imaginative cocktail lounge located through the bank vault doors of the area’s newest boutique hotel, Hotel on Phillips), Remedy Brewing Company (a newly opened family and dog-friendly brewery) and the trailblazing Sanaa’s Gourmet Mediterranean (led by 2023 James Beard Award-nominated chef Sanaa Abourezk).

The entrance to the Woodstock Inn & Resort in Woodstock, Vermont.

Where to Go: Woodstock, Vermont

Chosen By: Amanda Gabriele is a writer, editor, world traveler and martini enthusiast. She’s currently a senior editor at InsideHook and her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Eater, Gear Patrol, Thrillist, Matador and more. She lives in Brooklyn, New York but is constantly looking for her next adventure, which you can follow on Instagram @amandameatballs .

Why: Woodstock, Vermont has been making headlines for reasons big and small. The town was recently named to American Express Travel’s 2023 Trending Destinations list , based its popularity with cardholders. And the destination garnered attention when it reopened its iconic Suicide Six ski area—one of the oldest in the country— with a new name, Saskadena Six Ski Area , and new amenities. The change was recognized both for its long overdue nod to the Abenaki people’s ancestral lands, as well as the importance of mental health awareness.

The town’s simple appeals add to its allure. “I can’t think of a more idyllic place than Woodstock, Vermont—it makes for a perfect getaway in any season,” says Amanda Gabriele. “It has all the outdoor activities (hiking, skiing, fishing) and a lovely main street with great shops (don’t miss F.H. Gillingham and Sons, Woody’s Mercantile and Yankee Bookshop).”

For such a small town, Woodstock also has a buzzing hospitality scene. “I’m always in search of the perfect cocktail bar, and I could live inside Au Comptoir with its cozy interior and delicious drinks,” says Gabriele. On the mountain, Perley’s Pourhouse at Saskadena Six offers a selection of Vermont craft beer on tap, an outdoor wood-burning fireplace and fire pits.

The town is also home to the iconic Woodstock Inn & Resort . “It’s dog-friendly, which is a huge plus,” says Gabriele. “and there are comfy sitting areas (and an awesome game room!) scattered around the property that are perfect for a nightcap and chatting up new friends. Its two restaurants— Red Rooster and Richardson’s Tavern —are excellent and many of the dishes are made using fresh produce from the inn’s own garden.”

• Ranked: The 20 Happiest Countries In The World In 2023

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38 Places in the US Every American Should Visit

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

<p>Every traveler has a bucket list of places to see in this life. Beyond these shores, it might be Stratford-on-Avon in England for those with a literary bent; Normandy for those honoring the sacrifice of American soldiers who came ashore in northern France to liberate Europe from the Nazis and never came home; or the Coliseum in Rome for civil engineers marveling at ancient Roman ingenuity.</p> <p>There are plenty of places here in the United States. that are well worth visiting, too, of course - many of them unique in the world.</p> <p>24/7 Tempo has compiled a list of places in the U.S. every American should visit. These places of interest run the gamut from national parks to museums to sites where Americans can reflect on the ongoing struggle for freedom and liberty. We assembled our list from sources such as the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/elis/index.htm"><span>National Park Service</span></a><span>, </span><a href="https://www.britannica.com/summary/Cape-Canaveral"><span>Britannica</span></a><span>, </span><a href="https://www.battlefields.org/learn/revolutionary-war/battles/lexington-and-concord"><span>Battlefields.org</span></a><span>, the </span><a href="https://washington.org/smithsonian-institution-museums?msclkid=6b8e598246ba1118e4903d0ba4412da8&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=MI%20Destination%20DC%20Search%20Brand&utm_term=smithsonian%20institution&utm_content=Smithsonians"><span>Washington DC</span></a><span>, </span><a href="https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/coney-timeline/"><span>PBS</span></a>, and the official travel sites for various states. This is by no means a comprehensive list - rather a catalog of some of the destinations we consider to be uniquely American.</p> <p>You’d expect to see places such as Ellis Island, Gettysburg, the Grand Canyon, and the Statue of Liberty on such a list. But it’s so worth checking out destinations like Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, the world’s biggest cave system; the Doo-Wop architecture of the Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District in New Jersey; and the mesmerizing accomplishment of the Ford Rouge River car assembly line in Michigan, founded by Henry Ford. (<a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/07/14/classic-images-of-motels-with-a-vintage-vibe/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=classic-images-of-motels-with-a-vintage-vibe&wsrlui=47180651">Check these classic images of motels with a vintage vibe</a>.)</p> <p>It will be cheaper for Americans to be on the road again to visit these places this summer. The average U.S. gas price was $3.56 as of June 15, almost $1.50 less than $5.03 recorded on June 16, 2022, according to the fuel-saving website GasBuddy - whose 2023 Summer Travel Survey reports that 64% of Americans are planning to take a summer road trip this year, up from 58% in 2022. (<a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180652">To keep you company, consider America’s favorite road trip songs</a>.)</p>

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

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

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

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

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

<p><strong>> Location:</strong> Florida<br> <strong>> National significance:</strong> It served as the launch site for Apollo missions, including the historic moon landing, and was a key location for NASA's space shuttle program.</p> <p><span><strong><a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180653">ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs</a></strong></span></p>

Cape Canaveral

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

ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs

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

Ellis Island

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

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

Grand Canyon

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

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

Fenway Park

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

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

Coney Island

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

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

Mammoth Cave

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

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

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

<p><strong>> Location:</strong> Virginia<br> <strong>> National significance:</strong> Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, designed the estate and lived here.</p> <p><span><strong><a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180654">ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs</a></strong></span></p>

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

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

Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill

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

Redwood National and State Parks

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

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

Fort McHenry

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

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

Monument Valley

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

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

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

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

Arlington National Cemetery

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

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

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

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

Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District

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

<p><strong>> Location:</strong> Washington, D.C.<br> <strong>> National significance:</strong> It serves as a symbol of national unity, freedom, and equality, commemorating Lincoln's leadership during the Civil War and his emancipation of the enslaved.</p> <p><span><strong><a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180655">ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs</a></strong></span></p>

Lincoln Memorial

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

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

Ebenezer Baptist Church

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

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

Glacier National Park

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

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

Independence Hall

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

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

The Smithsonian Institution

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

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

San Diego Zoo

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

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

Washington Monument

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

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

West Point Academy

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

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

Grand Ole Opry

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

<p><strong>> Location:</strong> Louisiana<br> <strong>> National significance:</strong> Known for its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, it is renowned as a hub of music (it is considered the birthplace of jazz) and cuisine.</p> <p><span><strong><a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180656">ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs</a></strong></span></p>

New Orleans

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

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

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

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

Appalachian Trail

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

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

Four Corners Monument

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

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

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

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

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

Yellowstone National Park

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

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

Ford River Rouge Complex

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

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

Hot Springs

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

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

Wrigley Field

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

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

The Wright Brothers National Memorial

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

<p><strong>> Location:</strong> Georgia<br> <strong>> National significance:</strong> The first planned city in America, established in 1733, Savannah's was meticulously designed by General James Oglethorpe with a memorable grid system of squares and parks.</p> <p><span><strong><a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180657">ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs</a></strong></span></p>

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

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

National Archives Museum

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

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

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

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

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

Mississippi Petrified Forest

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

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

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

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

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

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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

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

White Sands National Park

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

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

Wynwood Arts District

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

<p><strong>> Location:</strong> New York<br> <strong>> National significance:</strong> A symbol of freedom, democracy, and hope, the statue represents the welcoming of immigrants and stands as a beacon of liberty and opportunity.</p> <p><span><strong><a href="https://247wallst.com/special-report/2022/12/17/americas-favorite-road-trip-songs/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=msn&utm_content=americas-favorite-road-trip-songs&wsrlui=47180658">ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs</a></strong></span></p>

Statue of Liberty

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

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What is the most visited national park in the US? Answers to your biggest park questions

Most people have heard of Yosemite’s Half Dome or Yellowstone's Old Faithful , but how about the largest national park? Or which gets the most visitors each year?

USA TODAY rounded up answers to the most popular park questions to help travelers better understand these national treasures and share some fun trivia with family and friends on their next park visit.

Here are 10 things to know about America’s national parks .

What is the most visited national park in the US?

Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park in America, by far. Last year, it drew nearly three times the visitors as the second-most visited park, Grand Canyon , according to National Park Service data .

These were the 15 most visited national parks in 2023:

Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee - 13,297,647
Grand Canyon in Arizona - 4,733,705
Zion in Utah - 4,623,238
Yellowstone in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming - 4,501,382
Rocky Mountain in Colorado - 4,115,837
Yosemite in California - 3,897,070
Acadia in Maine - 3,879,890
Grand Teton in Wyoming - 3,417,106
Joshua Tree in California - 3,270,404
Olympic National Park in Washington - 2,947,503
Glacier National Park in Montana - 2,933,616
Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio - 2,860,059
Indiana Dunes in Indiana - 2,765,892
Hot Springs in Arkansas - 2,502,967
Bryce Canyon in Utah - 2,461,269

The least visited national park is Gates of the Arctic in Alaska, which drew 11,045 visitors last year even though there are no roads to get there.“Even for Alaska, Gates of the Arctic is sort of above all the rest in terms of difficulty of reaching it, solitude, remoteness,” Peter Christian, chief spokesperson for Public Affairs for the National Park Service’s Alaska region, previously told USA TODAY.

'Finding hidden gems': America's least visited national parks

What are the big 3 national parks?

When people think of national parks, three loom large in many minds: Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite.

However, they’re neither the three most visited national parks nor the largest in size.

What is the largest US national park?

Wrangell-St. Elias is the biggest of all. It’s more than three times the size of Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite national parks combined.

The three biggest national parks are all in Alaska:

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve - 13.2 million acres
Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve - nearly 8.5 million acres
Denali National Park & Preserve - more than 4.7 million acres

The smallest national park is Gateway Arch in Missouri, at roughly 91 acres.

What is the newest national park?

New River Gorge , in West Virginia, became America’s newest national park in December 2020.

It was previously designated a national river.

Story continues below.

How many national parks are in the US?

There are 63 national parks across the country, including two in U.S. territories.

USA TODAY has been spotlighting each one in a yearlong series that shares insights and tips from the park rangers who know them best.

Has anyone been to all 63 national parks?

Yes. Multiple people have accomplished this bucket list feat, including Stefanie Payne, who visited all 63 parks within one year and wrote about them in " 100 Things to See in the National Parks ."

“The Alaska parks are the ones that are deepest in my heart because they are in such a remote and rugged landscape,” she previously told USA TODAY . “It's really just mind-bending to be in some of those areas, especially when the mountains are so big and the glaciers and the terrain is really challenging and you start to see what you're made of.”

What state has the best national parks?

Many national parks fans point to Utah’s Mighty Five : Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion, but best is subjective.

“I'm sure every park is like, ‘Everywhere is the best.’ It's all so good, right?” Petrified Forest National Park park ranger Jessica Barnett told USA TODAY.

Which state has the most number of national parks?

California has the most national parks, with nine: Channel Islands, Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Kings Canyon, Lassen Volcanic, Pinnacles, Redwood, Sequoia, and Yosemite.

Death Valley actually straddles California and Nevada. A number of America’s national parks span multiple states.

What state has no national park?

There are no national parks in Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont or Wisconsin.

However, all 50 states are home to other National Park Service units , like national battlefields and seashores, which are sometimes called parks.

The National Park System currently has 429 units. The most recent addition is Amanche National Historic Site in Colorado. Travelers can find sites by state on the National Park Service’s website .

What is a national park a park for?

When Yellowstone became America’s first national park in 1872, Congress designated it “a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people,” but national parks have come to offer and protect much more.

“The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations,” according the mission shared on its website.

To help protect these spaces, visitors are asked to leave no trace .

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY

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The Best Place to Camp in Every State

By Emily Pennington

One of the best things about exploring all the best camping spots around the United States is witnessing just how astonishingly diverse its natural landscapes are. In a single road trip, you could find yourself cruising through the arid high desert in central California , then sleeping under the stars in a patch of old-growth rainforest in northern Washington .

Not only is exploring the country’s vast expanse of public lands good for your mental health , camping on them is the best way to beat the crowds to your morning hike and catch an unhurried sunset vista when the day is done. So, as the weather warms up and outdoorsy plans begin to take shape, we’ve put together a list of our favorite place to camp in every single state, including Puerto Rico .

To make sure that our list was affordable and accessible, we’re skipping options found on Hipcamp (a platform like Airbnb that lists outdoor stays and camping experiences on privately owned land) and sticking with the basics–every spot on this list sits within the national or state parks system. Lace up your boots, air out your tent and read on for our A-to-Z guide to the best camping spots in America.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best camping in Alabama: Cheaha State Park

Most travelers don’t go to Alabama for the mountain views, but this 77-site campground flips the script. Meaning “high place” in Creek, Cheaha State Park is set at a breezy 2,407 feet above sea level and provides an amenity-rich woodland haven (we’re talking bathhouses, fire rings, and electrical hookups), catering to hikers, bikers, and climbers .

Best camping in Alaska: Wonder Lake, Denali National Park

Arguably the spot with the most tantalizing view of Denali, Wonder Lake is a wilderness seeker’s dream. Accessible by shuttle bus, this tents-only primitive campground sits lakeside in the vast Alaskan tundra, amidst crimson dwarf birch shrubs.

Best camping in Arizona: Desert View Campground, Grand Canyon National Park

Escape the tourist throngs of Grand Canyon Village and enjoy a quieter, simpler camping experience at Desert View. Located a stone’s throw from the craggy maw of the Grand Canyon , these first-come, first-served sites are a shady, private place to unwind, in the midst of a juniper grove.

Best camping in Arkansas: Petit Jean State Park

RVers , tenters, and Yurt-lovers will revel in the multitude of camping options and creature comforts at Petit Jean State Park. Explore the sandstone boulders of Bear Cave and hike to 95-foot Cedar Falls, before an afternoon kickback in the swimming pool (you read that right).

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Best camping in California: Upper Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park

Set smack in the middle of that famous Yosemite Valley granite, the year-round Upper Pines Campground is a fantastic place to beat the park’s notorious traffic, because it’s a stone’s throw from notable sights like Cook’s Meadow , Mirror Lake , and the scenic, 12-mile bike path .

Bear Lake Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado

Best camping in Colorado: Moraine Park Campground, Rocky Mountain National Park

Tucked into an elk-filled valley near attractions like Bear Lake and Glacier Gorge, this high-altitude getaway is ideal for view-seekers and avid hikers. Come for the year-round availability, stay for the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountain sunsets.

Connecticut

Best camping in Connecticut: Rocky Neck State Park

It’s true—swimming in the Long Island Sound, fishing for saltwater bass, and hiking among marshland waterfowl can all be found less than an hour drive from New Haven . After a day spent lounging on white sand beaches, stargaze right from your tent, while serenaded by the pops and crackles of the campfire.

Best camping in Delaware: Cape Henlopen State Park

Sink your toes into the sand at this 7,000-acre oceanfront campsite. Beloved by fishers and stand-up paddleboarders alike, the newly renovated campground offers amenities galore (like laundry and a camp store) while providing easy access to the park’s beaches, historic Fort Miles Museum, and tidal salt marshes.

Best camping in Florida: Bahia Honda State Park

Sip your morning coffee with a view of the electric blue waters of the Florida Keys . Bahia Honda’s white sand beaches, frilly palm trees, epic snorkeling, and impeccable night skies feel more like the Caribbean than the U.S.

Best camping in Georgia: West Rim Campground, Cloudland Canyon State Park

It’s hard to believe that cascading waterfalls, thousand-foot-deep canyons, and rugged sandstone cliffs can all be found in one place, least of all Georgia. But, impressively, Cloudland Canyon makes it happen. Overnight guests can choose between backpacking , car camping, or splurging on a cottage that’s spitting distance from the best views.

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Best camping in Hawaii: Polihale State Park

Pitching your tent on the soft sand of Polihale State Park is about as close to heaven as you can get–if you can brave the dirt road to get there, that is. Here, the intrepid traveler (with a 4-wheel-drive vehicle) is rewarded with shaded oceanfront picnic tables, impressive sunsets, and epic views of the towering sea cliffs of the Nāpali Coast.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area of Stanley Idaho

Best camping in Idaho: Glacier View Campground, Sawtooth National Forest

With striking views of 10,229-foot Mount Heyburn, shaded sites tucked among fragrant lodgepole pines, and easy access to one of the most stunning lakes in the state, it’s no wonder that Glacier View is one of the most sought-after campgrounds in Idaho. Hikers will appreciate the dozens of miles of nearby trails, while water lovers can float or paddle in nearby Redfish Lake.

Garden of the Gods Wilderness in Shawnee National Forest

Best camping in Illinois: Pharaoh Campground, Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

From its knobby, lichen-encrusted spires to its behemoth rust-colored rocks, Garden of the Gods is a park that lives up to its name. Solitude seekers will love the panoramic sunset views and the park’s shady, crowd-free campground of 12 first-come, first-served sites.

Best camping in Indiana: Dunewood Campground, Indiana Dunes National Park

The high, sandy hills of Indiana Dunes might seem more at home in the Sahara than along the southern edge of Lake Michigan, but the uniqueness of this geological wonder is what’s kept travelers coming back for over 100 years. Ready to stretch your legs? Explore the park’s amazing biodiversity along the 4.7-mile Cowles Bog Trail .

Best camping in Iowa: Backbone State Park

It’s not all flat farmland in Iowa . Since 1920, Backbone State Park has been a celebrated recreation area, boasting one of the state’s best geological wonders: the Devil’s Backbone, a steep ridge of river-carved bedrock. Hikers can explore amongst twisted cedars and cliffs of dolomite limestone, and rock climbers will love the park’s plentiful steep routes.

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Best camping in Kansas: Historic Lake Scott State Park

The western edge of Kansas contains a multitude of natural wonders, like forested canyons, sparkling lakes, and rocky bluffs that dominate the famously flat expanse of the rest of the state. Historic Lake Scott State Park centers around a 100-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by old growth ash, elm, and cottonwood trees, perfect for the camper looking to fish, stand-up paddleboard, boat, or hike the 3-mile Lake Scott West Loop .

Natural Bridge State Park in Slade Kentucky

Best camping in Kentucky: Middle Fork Campground, Natural Bridge State Park

Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is an area revered by climbers for its flaky, Corbin sandstone, but travelers also come for the magnificent views and gargantuan stone arch. Hike or take the SkyLift to nab that perfect photo, then doze off to the burbling of the campground’s creek.

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Best camping in Louisiana: Chicot State Park

Cyclists, backpackers, anglers, and water lovers of all stripes flock to Chicot State Park for its eerily scenic, swampy bottomland hardwood forest. Choose between 198 “improved” campsites, which offer water and electrical hookups, or get back to roots at one of the area’s six first-come, first-served backcountry campsites.

Best camping in Maine: Blackwoods Campground, Acadia National Park

Snuggled into a lush forest of spruce and hemlock, Blackwoods Campground provides a centrally located shady solace for adventure seekers in Acadia . Climb Cadillac Mountain for a spectacular sunrise show, dip your feet into the water at Sand Beach, and marvel at the craggy coastal headland of Otter Point.

Best camping in Maryland: Assateague State Park

Feel the brisk, salty spray of the Atlantic Ocean just steps from your campsite on this coastal barrier island. Pass the days sunbathing, or kayaking in secluded, marshy coves, beside the wild horses who wander the sand.

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Massachusetts

Best camping in Massachusetts: Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

After a quick ferry ride from Boston, campers can revel in the wildflowers, tidepools, and sandy shores of the Boston Harbor Islands. They’re a history lesson by day, too: Explore Civil War-era Fort Warren, before retreating to a hidden beach campsite on Lovells Island.

Best camping in Michigan: Twelvemile Beach Campground, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Few campgrounds at Pictured Rocks come with a lake view, which makes Twelvemile Beach all the more desirable. Pitch a tent among stands of white birch and gaze out at the deep blue vastness of Lake Superior. And don’t miss kayaking around the park’s namesake rock formations—rentals and tours are available in nearby Munising.

Kabetogama State Forest Voyageurs National Park Minnesota

Best camping in Minnesota: Woodenfrog Campground, Kabetogama State Forest

As one of the only water-based parks in the system, finding a launchpad for Voyageurs National Park can challenge the most seasoned road tripper. Our tip: Rent a boat from a local operator, and set off for the Ellsworth Rock Gardens and the tiny, deserted islands of Lake Kabetogma. Or, simply splash around in the lake’s warm waters at Woodenfrog’s own swimming beach.

Mississippi

Best camping in Mississippi: Tishomingo State Park

Rich with Native American history, Tishomingo State Park takes its name from a leader of the Chickasaw Nation. Its location in the foothills of the Appalachians makes this woodland park and campground perfect for peaceful hiking excursions and family float trips down Bear Creek.

Best camping in Missouri: Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park

Beat the Missouri heat by splashing around in the boulder-strewn waterfalls and swimming holes of Johnson’s Shut-Ins. This well-appointed campground is a stone’s throw from the Black River, and locals love the walk-in campsites for their ample space and privacy.

Best Camping in Montana: Many Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park

Though it’s tricky to nab a coveted reservation at this storied national park campground , those who do will be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the Northern Rockies and easy access to mirror-clear Swiftcurrent Lake. After a hearty camp breakfast, get your heartrate up on a trek to Iceberg Lake or the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint.

Best camping in Nebraska: Smith Falls State Park

The misty cascade of 63-foot Smith Falls isn’t the only thing that makes this park great. Water-loving Nebraska campers can tube, canoe, and kayak the Niobrara, a National Scenic River.

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Best camping in Nevada: Valley of Fire State Park

40,000 acres of flame-red Aztec sandstone and 2,000-year-old petroglyphs are what make Valley of Fire , near the metropolis of Las Vegas , truly remarkable. Here, two campgrounds boasting a total of 72 units offer travelers creature comforts like shade areas, showers, RV hookups (water and power), and a dump station. Don’t miss the 1-mile hike to the aptly-named Rainbow Vista.

New Hampshire

Best camping in New Hampshire: Lafayette Place Campground, Franconia Notch State Park

Easily one of the best spots for leaf-peeping in October, Franconia Notch is also a brilliant summer destination for hikers looking to hop onto a stretch of the Appalachian Trail and traverse the Franconia Ridge. Set right on the banks of the Pemigewasset River, this forested campground is as close as you can get to those scenic White Mountain trails as well.

Best camping in New Jersey: Worthington State Forest

Worthington State Forest is a breath of fresh air for Garden State residents—and just an hour drive from Newark. Hike to the top of Mount Tammany and gaze out at the verdant, rolling hills of northern New Jersey , before curling up in your sleeping bag on the banks of the Delaware River.

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Best Camping in New Mexico: Three Rivers Campground, Lincoln National Forest

With White Sands’ backcountry camping area closed for the moment, it can be tricky to find a scenic alternative that’s within easy driving distance to the park. Luckily, remote Three Rivers Campground really delivers the goods. Not only can you stargaze while beating the heat here (the sites sit at a lofty 5,000 feet), visitors can also take a .5-mile trail to marvel at one of the largest petroglyph sites in the Southwest.

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Best camping in New York: Letchworth State Park

Colloquially called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Letchworth State Park is revered for its striking river gorge, with cliffs as high at 600 feet. 66 miles of hiking trails through noble fir and white spruce await avid hikers, while rafters and kayakers can try their hand at descending the Genesee River. The campground even offers a bridle path for equestrians.

North Carolina

Best camping in North Carolina: Mount Pisgah Campground

Spanning 469 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains to Shenandoah, the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic roads in the country. Situated on its southern end near Asheville is Mount Pisgah, a breezy high-altitude respite from the summer heat. Don't miss the three-mile trek to its summit, followed up by a burger and local brew at the Pisgah Inn.

North Dakota

Best camping in North Dakota: Cottonwood Campground, Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Often touted as the landscape that made Roosevelt into the “conservationist president,” North Dakota’s colorful badlands, cheerful prairie dog towns, and herds of bison combine to make the national park a wonder to behold. Set on the banks of the Little Missouri River, Cottonwood Campground offers excellent wildlife viewing, plus fire rings and picnic tables for nights around the campfire.

Ash Cave in Ohio's Hocking Hills State Park

Best camping in Ohio: Old Man’s Cave Campground, Hocking Hills State Park

From its deep, rough-cut gorges to its eerie hemlock groves, Hocking Hills is the perfect place for shady walks (and maybe even a little forest bathing , if that's your thing). Old Man’s Cave, named after a hermit who lived in its caverns in the late 1700s, is the most popular site in the park drawing explorers of all ages with its impressive rock formations and waterfalls.

Best camping in Oklahoma: Old Circle Campground, Robber’s Cave State Park

Once used as a hideout for legendary outlaw Jesse James, Robber’s Cave State Park is now a sanctuary for outdoor lovers of all types. Hikers, bikers, equestrians, climbers, anglers, and paddlers alike will love the easy reservoir access, miles of trails, and rugged cliffs of the San Bois Mountains.

Image may contain Nature Outdoors Water Plant Vegetation Land Tree Woodland Stream and Creek

Best camping in Oregon: Eagle Creek Campground

Situated in the center of the action of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area , Eagle Creek Campground offers a glimpse into our nation’s history as the very first developed campground in the forest system. From camp, travelers can try to spot an osprey fishing or stroll along the basalt rock formations of the Eagle Creek Trail. Best of all, the famous Multnomah Falls is a short drive west.

Pennsylvania

Best camping in Pennsylvania: Ricketts Glen State Park Campground

Ricketts Glen Campground sits atop a forested peninsula that juts into the pristine waters of Lake Jean. But lakeside hangs are far from the top activity in the park. Meander through beech and hemlock stands, while taking in the area’s 22 waterfalls, finishing at the most striking: the 94-foot Ganoga Falls.

Puerto Rico

Best camping in Puerto Rico: Parque Nacional Balneario Seven Seas Campground

Park your tent just steps from the sea, at one of Puerto Rico’s beloved, crescent-shaped beaches. Soak up the Caribbean sunshine and snorkel right off the sand, then grab a rental car and switch gears for a short drive into the El Yunque rainforest.

Rhode Island

Best camping in Rhode Island: Charlestown Breachway

To overnight at Charlestown Breachway, campers will need their own “self-contained rig” (that's a motorhome in layman's terms). It’s a steep price of admission, but it allows RV owners, renters , and avid van-lifers a front row seat to some of the best saltwater fishing in the country. All sites are within walking distance to a sandy beach, providing breathtaking views of Block Island Sound.

South Carolina

Best camping in South Carolina: Devil's Fork State Park

Don’t let the name fool you—Devil’s Fork is home to some of the most heavenly, mountain spring-fed waters in the state. Set on the tranquil edge of Lake Jocassee, this largely undeveloped park is full of opportunities for freshwater scuba divers , trout lovers, and paddlers hunting for obscure waterfalls.

South Dakota

Best camping in South Dakota: Elk Mountain Campground, Wind Cave National Park

Though the park is famous for its enormous caverns full of boxwork and cave popcorn rock formations, Wind Cave is also extremely biodiverse. After settling in under a grove of ponderosa pines, search for bison herds on a scenic drive, or take in the rolling, golden hills on the Lookout Point Trail.

Image may contain Architecture Building Outdoors Shelter Tent Camping and Nature

Best camping in Tennessee: Elkmont Campground, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Set in the middle of the busiest national park in the country, the beautifully forested sites of Elkmont Campground are a fantastic place to set up base camp. 200 tent and RV sites with fire rings and picnic tables make post-hike feasts a cinch, and nearby, you’ll find trailheads for the mellow Little River Trail and Elkmont Nature Trail, both of which are great for trying to spot wild turkeys and deer.

Chisos Mountains Big Bend National Park in Texas

Best camping in Texas: Chisos Basin Campground, Big Bend National Park

Perched atop an uncharacteristically green island in the sky, the Chisos Basin does not feel like Texas . Mountain lions and black bears roam free among the jagged, rust-colored cliffs, and the arid Chihuahuan Desert sprawls out thousands of feet below. If you're looking to hike, the campground’s 69 sites are the perfect jumping off point for the park’s best trails.

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Best camping in Utah: The Needles Campground, Canyonlands National Park

Next time you’re in Moab, skip the hustle and bustle of Arches and head to the remote Needles Campground in Canyonlands, where Mars-like sandstone rock formations soar above sites lined with fire rings and picnic tables. During the day, explore the rust-red rocks and otherworldly terrain on the Chesler Park Viewpoint trail.

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Best camping in Vermont: Smugglers’ Notch State Park

We’ve got two words for you: fall foliage. Vermont’s got it in spades, and at Smugglers’ Notch , near Stowe, car campers can soak it all in at 20 tent sites and 14 lean-to sites. Summit Mt. Mansfield or traipse along the moderate Sterling Pond Trail, then return to amenities like showers, toilets, and an RV dump station.

Best camping in Virginia: Big Meadows Campground, Shenandoah National Park

Perfect for catching a glimpse of tangerine-hued autumn leaves, Shenandoah is home to over 500 miles of trails, over a hundred of which are along the transcontinental Appalachian Trail. Big Meadows offers many homey comforts (like hot showers) while remaining close to waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and the park’s famous Skyline Drive.

Hoh Campground Olympic National Park Washington

Best camping in Washington: Hoh Campground, Olympic National Park

Sleep among moss-blanketed spruce, hemlock, and Douglas fir in one of the only temperate rainforests in the country. The first-come, first-served Hoh Campground allows travelers to spend the night right in the middle of the dense greenery. During the day, stroll along the 0.8-mile Hall of Mosses loop, and keep an eye out for bright yellow banana slugs.

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West Virginia

Best camping in West Virginia: Grandview Sandbar Campground, New River Gorge National Park

Of the free, primitive campgrounds offered at New River Gorge National Park, we like Grandview Sandbar best for its easy river access, shady picnic tables, and designated fire rings. In summertime, beat the heat by hopping into the cool water or busy yourself with a stroll at nearby Grandview Overlook before grabbing a burger and a pint at Smokey’s on the Gorge .

Best camping in Wisconsin: Quartzite Campground, Devil’s Lake State Park

As the most popular park in the state, Devil’s Lake has a lot of hype to live up to. Luckily, it delivers. Scramble up rocky outcroppings for a stellar view of the water, hike the East Bluff Trail, or rent a standup paddleboard and traverse the lake. The area hosts three large developed campgrounds, and Quartzite offers the best lake access.

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Best camping in Wyoming: Signal Mountain Campground, Grand Teton National Park

Tucked against the shoreline of immense Jackson Lake, Signal Mountain Campground serves up some seriously breathtaking views of Mt. Moran and the northern Tetons. This is a fabulous place to pitch a tent if you’re with kids or new to camping, as it lies in a developed park enclave with laundry, showers, a restaurant, and a marina nearby. When the weather’s sunny, rent a kayak and paddle to Donoho Pt. or lace up your boots for the nearby hike to Trapper Lake.

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Look up —

Seeing this eclipse is probably the highest-reward, lowest-effort thing one can do in life, don't not see it..

Eric Berger - Mar 25, 2024 1:32 pm UTC

The path of totality for the April 8 eclipse.

If you enter "how to see the eclipse" into your favorite search engine, you're bound to see thousands—millions?—of helpful guides. Some of these are extremely detailed and thorough, almost as if the author were getting paid by the word or augmented by AI.

In reality, seeing a solar eclipse is just about the easiest thing one can do in one's life. Like, it's difficult to think of anything else that has the greatest reward-lowest effort ratio in life. You just need to know a couple of things. For the sake of simplicity, here is Ars' four-step guide to having a four-star eclipse-viewing experience. Steps are listed in order of ascending importance.

Step 1 : Identify the path of totality. This is where the total solar eclipse will be visible on April 8. The National Solar Observatory has a good map here . Click on the map to get the exact timing. It's time and place sorted.

Step 2 : Obtain solar eclipse glasses. These will be for sale everywhere, but don't forget them, and make sure they're ISO certified so your eyes don't get fried. A pair should cost about $2. You don't need to pay more than that.

Step 3 : Check the weather forecast. This is the second-most important step, after step 4. Seriously, nothing sucks worse than an eclipse with cloudy skies. (Well, an eclipse with cloudy skies and a car wreck on the way home sucks worse, so drive carefully.) Generally, the further southwest one goes on the path of totality, the greater the chance of clear skies. But that's climatology, not weather forecasting. As a meteorologist, I'm watching this closely, but it is still way too early to make a sensible forecast for which locations will see clear skies and which ones will be cloudy two weeks from now. We should have a better sense of things in about a week, especially for areas where high pressure will dominate. But for some locations, we may not really have a good handle on the forecast for days, or even hours, before totality. Yes, cloud cover can be that tricky.

Step 4 : Look up.

That's it. Really. You can go to a special eclipse party to see it, but the experience is going to be the same whether you're parked alongside a rural road in Arkansas or watching with thousands of friends in Indianapolis.

In reality, a total solar eclipse is probably going to be the most spectacular celestial event most of us see in our lifetimes. Certainly, there could be more spectacular ones. A supernova within 100 light-years of Earth would be amazing. Witnessing a large asteroid streaking through Earth's atmosphere before impact would be incredible.

Unfortunately, those would also be lethal.

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Channel ars technica.

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50 u.s. attractions to cross off your bucket list.

Your road map to hidden gems, cherished natural wonders and iconic monuments across America.

(Getty Images) |

Tick off these life-changing places and landmarks.

It's time to pack your bags and discover beautiful and awe-inspiring places across the country. From lesser-known national parks with alpine lakes or desert scenery to postcard-worthy natural wonders such as Carmel-by-the-Sea's craggy seaside cliffs and Sedona's crimson rock formations, America's landscapes are nothing if not enchanting. And the beauty of America is its vast diversity – from small mountain towns rich with captivating natural wonders to urban metropolises with world-renowned museums, monuments and cultural scenes. Here are 50 one-of-a-kind attractions to satisfy your wanderlust.

Potted plants in balcony of building at French Quarter, New Orleans

The French Quarter: New Orleans

With its infusion of cultural influences, rich heritage and iconic Jazz venues, New Orleans' French Quarter is a must for any worldly traveler. You can admire subtle French details, including lovely courtyard gardens and iron balcony fixtures, along with world-renowned landmarks, such as the Cabildo and William Faulkner House. Plus, you can join the fray on Bourbon Street, or for a more upscale experience, savor a cocktail at Carousel Bar & Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone, a famous 25-seat bar that's hosted Ernest Hemingway and Faulkner, among other literary luminaries. Another must-do: Watching jazz legends perform at much-loved venues, including Preservation Hall and the Spotted Cat Music Club, located nearby in the hip Faubourg Marigny neighborhood.

A man mountain bikes beneath the moon on the Tahoe Rim Trail in California.

Tahoe Rim Trail: Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Navigating the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail isn't for the faint of heart, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime bike ride, says Alex Howard, managing editor of travel publisher Lonely Planet. It's a painful trek up the challenging ridges of the Lake Tahoe Basin, but visitors are granted sweeping vistas of the area's dramatic cliffs and emerald waters, not to mention the imposing Sierra Nevada in the backdrop. A personal favorite mountain biking experience for Howard, the rim trail is a must-do for globetrotters in search of spellbinding scenery. Don't forget to stop and look at the sublime high-altitude Nevada desert views facing east and the lake to the west. Not into mountain biking? Embrace the alpine scenery on a hike or horseback ride.

Pike Place Market, Seattle

The iconic neon sign and lively, jampacked stalls brimming with fresh fish, produce and colorful flowers are just a few key recognizable characteristics of this well-known market. Discerning foodies and avid globetrotters flock here to check out the area's coffee institutions (including the first Starbucks location), unique bakeries and butchery shops and Emerald City gems – from vinyl records to local crafts, ranging from kitchenware to pottery to jewelry. After perusing the stands, grab picnic supplies from Beecher's Handmade Cheese or Le Panier patisserie for a meal along the downtown waterfront with views of Puget Sound, or for a more leisurely affair check out Café Campagne, a French bistro. You can also opt for a food-themed tour, if you'd rather make your way around the market with a pro.

English-Irish boy band The Wanted performs 'Santa Claus is Coming To Town' while taping the Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade TV special December 6, 2013 at the Magic Kingdom park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida

Magic Kingdom: Walt Disney World, Buena Vista, Florida

Dazzling fireworks shows. Character meet-and-greets. Whizzing around on the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Climbing into the Swiss Family Treehouse. Magic Kingdom is the place for embracing Disney's pixie-dusted charms. When you're not spinning around classic rides, you can check out elaborate parades, book a memorable meal at Cinderella's Royal Table or even snap photos with beloved characters like Ariel and Tinker Bell at top sights throughout the park. Best of all, with your FastPasses (or FastPass+ if you're staying at a Walt Disney World-affiliated hotel), you can reduce your wait times at top Magic Kingdom attractions.

The morning glowing light over the Badlands in South Dakota.

Badlands National Park: South Dakota

With ochre-tinted buttes, graceful spires and fossil-rich landscapes, Badlands National Park, in southwest South Dakota, entrances visitors with its ethereal vistas. "Everyone heads to Yellowstone or Kauai, [Hawaii], but the Dakota Badlands inspire in their own way," says Amy Alipio, senior editor at National Geographic Traveler. "Whether at Badlands National Park, in South Dakota, or Theodore Roosevelt National Park, in North Dakota, these places capture the wide open spaces America is known for, enlivened by geologic formations that can be as colorfully striped as a Scottish tartan," she explains. Soak in the scenery along the two-lane state Highway 240 Badlands Loop Road, off Interstate 90, which snakes past dramatic ridges, spires and prairies. If you would rather hike, the Notch Trail offers staggering vantage points from a ledge peering over the White River Valley.

Fenway Park: Boston

An American icon, Fenway Park has attracted Major League Baseball fanatics since its opening in 1912. Like other historical landmarks in Beantown (hat tip: check out the cluster of legendary attractions sprinkled across the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail), Fenway Park boasts an intriguing and long-standing legacy and unique architectural structures. The 37-foot-high wall (or the Green Monster, as the locals call it), is a standout. Among other heavy-hitters, David Ortiz, Babe Ruth and Ted Williams all played here, and you can retrace their steps easily thanks to the park's well-preserved dugout. For a baseball – and history – lesson, consider taking an affordable $20 Fenway tour on a non-game day. Or, take in a game at the beloved ballpark, and you may even be convinced the infamous 1919 "Curse of the Bambino" – when the team sold Ruth to the rival New York Yankees – is finally over.

Powell's City of Books: Portland, Oregon

Bookworms flock to this 68,000-square-foot institution for good reason. One of the largest independent bookstores on the globe, Powell's not only supplies rare and first-edition copies of prized novels, but it also hosts a variety of distinguished authors for regular readings. The literary powerhouse even features separate rooms catering to different bibliophiles' interests, like the Rare Book Room. Once you've perused Powell's well-stocked shelves to pick up a novel, cookbook or other gem, grab a coffee or a bite from one of the nearby street food vendors at the Alder Street Food Cart Pod or get a sample of Portland's distinguished craft brew scene at BridgePort Brewpub.

Christ of the Abyss statue in the Florida Keys.

(Getty Images | Image Source)

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Florida

The epic 113-mile drive along U.S. Route 1 (also known as the Overseas Highway), through the Florida Keys is a must-do for beach and nature lovers. And this park – located at mile marker 102.5 – is a can't-miss stop for those looking to take in a dizzying display of coral and tropical fish. Recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, the park boasts the only living coral reef in the continental U.S. Take your pick from scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, canoeing and glass-bottom boat tours, among other outdoor pursuits. Once you've checked out the park's offshore reefs and mangroves, then venture to other famous attractions in the Keys, like Seven Mile Bridge.

Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate sculpture, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America, North America

Millennium Park: Chicago

Chicago, with its beautifully designed museums and architectural gems, has long lured culture vultures with an eye for art. "Chicago is like an open-air candy store for architecture buffs," Alipio says. A great way to get a fresh perspective of the Windy City's glass-and-steel grandeur is on an architecture cruise. "The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers a bunch of tours, including a cruise along the Chicago River, that show off the city's striking skyscrapers and historic buildings," Alipio adds. But no trip to Chi-Town is complete without snapping a photo at The Bean or exploring the fascinating art and architecture across Millennium Park 's nearly 25-acre green space, including the Lurie Garden and the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Golden Gate Bridge: San Francisco

When you picture the City by the Bay, images of this iconic suspension bridge, which connects Marin County and San Francisco, likely come to mind. As Alipio puts it: "The instantly recognizable Golden Gate Bridge is not only beautiful, but also frames an ocean of travel possibilities just beyond." The bridge, which was built during the Great Depression, boasts an art deco exterior with its red-orange towers looming over the bay. Capture picture-perfect photos from Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point or Point Bonita Lighthouse. Other idyllic spots for shutterbugs include Golden Gate Park and the Golden Gate Promenade. After soaking in the scenery, make your way to the tourist-heavy Fisherman's Wharf to take in the lively atmosphere of Pier 39.

The Big Duck, Flanders, North Fork, Suffolk County, Long Island, New York, USA. A well-known Long Island landmark as well as a specific style of roadside architecture. Built in 1931, Riverhead duck farmer Martin Maurer and his wife Jeule decided to construct a giant duck-shaped duck shop to sell Peking ducks they raised to passing motorists. Measures 30 feet from beak to perky tail, 15 feet from folded wing to folded wing, and 20 feet from its base to the top of its head.

The Big Duck: Long Island, New York

"The U.S. is full of oversized roadside kitsch that's just fun to Instagram, like the towering pistachio nut in Alamogordo, New Mexico, or the giant cowboy boots in San Antonio, Texas," Alipio says. Her favorite is the Big Duck located on Long Island. "It’s a beloved duck-shaped building that has become an unofficial gateway to the blue-chip Hamptons," she explains. Recognized on the list of National Register of Historic Places, the snow-white duck is 20 feet high and is decked with unique accents, like eyes filled with Model-T Ford tail lights. Rising over Reeves Bay in Flanders on Long Island, the Big Duck also boasts a holiday light display in winter.

Griffith Park: Los Angeles

Stretching across 4,210 acres, Griffith Park offers an ideal perch for soaking in the LA basin and urban sprawl from its location on Mount Hollywood. Outdoorsy types will appreciate its diverse horseback riding and hiking trails – including a trail to the Hollywood Sign – and culture vultures will love the Griffith Observatory, which offers amazing views. "La La Land" lovers should make their way to the planetarium for Hollywood-worthy backdrops, then visit Cathy's Corner near Mt. Hollywood Drive to retrace the steps of Mia and Sebastian's enchanting dance sequence to "A Lovely Night." After taking in cinematic views, make your way to the on-site LA Zoo.

Sunset at the Newfound Gap in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: North Carolina and Tennessee

Stretching across North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts outdoorsy types with its sublime mountain scenery and beautiful old-growth forests. But a major draw in this prized national park is the synchronous natural fire display, Alipio says. In late May or early June, you can witness 19 different types of fireflies flashing in harmony with bright bursts of color against the dark night sky at the Elkmont Campground. The spectacle occurs as the insects attract prospective mates with their flashing hues in unison. The only catch: Because of the event's popularity, there's a lottery system. If you miss the event, you can still enjoy wildlife-watching and recreational activities such as horseback riding and white-water rafting.

Toroweap Overlook on the north rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.

The North Rim: The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Nothing captures the grandeur or natural splendor of the country's prized national parks quite like the Grand Canyon, with its staggering buttes, rust-colored rock formations and dramatic gorges. However, with 5 million visitors each year, you'll need to be selective about how you spend your time at the park. The North Rim offers particularly photogenic areas, including Marble Canyon and Bright Angel Point, along with fewer tourist crowds than the tourist-heavy South Rim. For the best vantage points, make your way to Cape Royal Trail, where you'll find Angels Window, an impressive natural arch that yields mesmerizing angles of the Colorado River.

Red Rocks State Park in Sedona, Arizona.

Red Rocks State Park: Sedona, Arizona

Sedona attracts nature lovers with its desert landscapes, surreal red rocks and enchanting vortexes, places where the earth's energy is reportedly amplified and wellness-seekers can find spiritual awareness and healing. This sprawling 286-acre preserve is an ideal place to observe Sedona's famous red buttes and sweeping vistas along colorful trails. A few highlights include Cathedral Rock, Courthouse Butte and Bell Rock off state Route 179. Trek along the park's 5-mile collection of trails to take in a mosaic of red rock and desert vistas in Oak Creek Canyon. For a unique perspective, join an expert-guided full-moon hike to gaze at the park's bright spires and distinct formations casting a fiery glow as the sun drops and the moon rises. Alternatively, bike, raft or take a hot air balloon ride to marvel at the scenery.

Carmel River Beach Park offers a panoramic view of Point Lobos in Carmel California.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, California

To reach this rugged coastal reserve, you'll visit charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, an oceanside village with boutique shops and low-key cafes that's tucked between Monterey and Pebble Beach. Once you arrive at the reserve, you'll be surrounded by striking rock formations and inviting trails peering over the dramatic cliffs. Wildlife lovers can also catch sight of sea lions, otters and dolphins, among other fascinating species. Tackle Cypress Grove Trail to gaze over wind-swept cypresses. Afterward, continue south along the Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, for spine-tingling bends along craggy cliffs that yield breathtaking coastal vistas.

Washington DC, USA at the tidal basin with Washington Monument in spring season.

The Tidal Basin: Washington, District of Columbia

Our nation's capital has no shortage of marbled memorials and monuments. Standout attractions, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, are conveniently located along the 2-mile-long Tidal Basin . From the Tidal Basin, you'll also want to make your way to the National Mall to check out the reflecting pool, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, particularly in early spring, when a canopy of pink cherry blossoms blanket the Tidal Basin, Alipio says.

South Beach: Miami Beach, Florida

It's hard to resist the eye-catching art deco architecture along Ocean Drive in South Beach. Neon lights, buzzy clubs and a sea of pastel hues make the iconic boulevard instantly recognizable. After admiring the 1930s-inspired buildings, enjoy quintessential South Beach experiences, including sunbathing (and people-watching) along the 10-mile palm-fringed South Beach or joining the late-night revelry at vibrant VIP clubs and lounges. If you're not a night owl, check out the open-air Lincoln Road Mall or head to the Art Deco Welcome Center and Museum to take a self-guided tour (or tag along on a walking tour) to brush up on the area's famous architecture.

Aerial view of Central Park, Manhattan, New York.

Central Park: New York City

When you need a break from admiring Manhattan's gleaming skyscrapers, world-class museums and vibrant neighborhoods – or you simply need a respite from the concrete jungle's frenetic energy – follow city-dwellers to Gotham's favorite green space. Occupying 843 acres, Central Park offers activities for all visitors, whether you want to stroll past lovely fountains, gardens and sculptures, row a boat or even ice skate. A few can't-miss spots include Strawberry Fields, an area dedicated to legendary singer-songwriter John Lennon, the Shakespeare Garden, which features unique flora and fauna such as cowslip, primrose and lark's heel and famous quotes for the playwright, and the Wollman Rink, which transforms into a skating rink come winter.

Las Vegas Strip: Las Vegas

America's Playground lures high rollers with its glitzy hotels, neon-lit fountains and nonstop entertainment, and the best place to soak in Sin City's frenetic sights and sounds is along the Strip. With a mini Eiffel Tower, a nightly fountain light show, a sphinx and a replica Venetian canal – among other eye-catching sights – there are plenty of points of interests to catch your attention. The best way to experience the 5-mile-long boulevard is on foot. Consider checking out the action at night, when the glowing skyline offers a stark contrast to the dessert backdrop and you can head to The Mirage to catch a memorable "volcano" smoke, fire and lava spectacle, beginning nightly at 8 p.m.

Niagara Falls: New York and Ontario, Canada

If you're in search of an amazing natural phenomenon, you can't skip visiting Niagara Falls, Howard says. Yes, the area is filled with tourist kitsch, but with water plummeting at 41 miles per hour, viewing the misty falls is an inspiring experience, he adds. While some of the best vantage points are on the Canadian side of the border, a great way to take in the three falls – Bridal Veil, American and Horseshoe – in all their glory is on a Maid of the Mist boat tour. Visiting Niagara Falls State Park (on the U.S. side) is also a must. Check out the Cave of the Winds or the Niagara Falls Observation Tower for wind-swept vistas.

First autumn Snow on Colorado's Maroon Lake at first light

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area: Colorado

For sublime scenery (and picture-perfect perches for capturing the Colorado Rockies' imposing peaks), Maroon Bells is the place to go. The arresting high-altitude nature reserve offers a variety of hiking trails, including the 26-mile Four Pass Loop, which winds past alpine lakes and ascends over four mountain passes. Appealing to wildlife lovers and avid hikers alike, Maroon Bells' two peaks ascend over 14,000 feet and offer some of the most beautiful vantage points in all of Colorado. Best of all, the area is within easy reach of Aspen, making it a must for any visitor

Balboa Park: San Diego

This sprawling 1,200-acre park is a destination unto itself with the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, 17 museums and a wealth of fountains, gardens and performances year-round. The star attraction here is the San Diego Zoo, where visitors can catch sight of more than 3,700 endangered animals, from a giant panda to penguins to koala bears. A hallmark of this laid-back Southern California city, the zoo is recognized as one of the world's best. You could devote an entire day to admiring the zoo's fascinating creatures or checking out the safari park in Escondido – home to gorillas, zebras and elephants – but if you need a break, check out the art on display at the Spanish Village Art Center or make your way to the San Diego Air & Space Museum.

Grand Prismatic Spring: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

With its kaleidoscope of colors – from vibrant aquamarine shades to bright orange, crimson and yellow hues – this natural wonder in the Midway Geyser Basin is one of the world's most stunning geological features. The brilliant spectacle of color is formed from pigmented bacteria that thrive in the mineral-rich spring water. For unparalleled views, stroll along the Grand Loop. And don't ignore the other must-see attractions in the Lower Geyser, including Old Faithful and Excelsior Geyser.

Times Square: New York City

Sure, Times Square packs sensory overload with flashing neon lights, honking horns, swarms of tourists and a frenzy of activity at all hours of the day, but it also captures the brash, colorful spirit of New York City and is a must for any first-time city visitor. Street performers and bright billboards jockey for your attention. Even if you can't grab tickets to a Broadway show, you're sure to be entertained in this consumerism mecca. For a one-of-a-kind experience, plan a New Year's Eve trip to watch the glittering ball drop into a sea of confetti. And if you're craving a little more Zen, join a Solstice in Times Square event in June, when yogis the world over practice together.

Morning sunlight over the amphitheater at Bryce Canyon viewed from Inspiration Point.

Bryce Canyon Amphitheater: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Otherworldly rust-colored hoodoo rock formations are on full display at this popular national park. Embark on the Rim Trail for jaw-dropping views of the amphitheater. Postcard-worthy angles of the intricate spires can be found at Inspiration, Bryce, Sunrise and Sunset viewpoints. Other worthwhile treks include the Navajo Loop and the Queens Garden Trail, which also offer captivating views of the spiky, pinnacled formations. Arrive early or late in the day to beat the crowds and catch the dizzying array of gold, orange and crimson hues in beautiful natural lighting. Beyond the amphitheater, you can explore of the park's splendors with a ranger-led program, a moonlit guided stroll and even seasonal telescope stargazing.

Female hiker on narrow highline trail stands on overlook with arms outstretched, looking down on going-to-the-sun road not far from Logan pass in glacier National Park, Montana, on partly cloudy summer afternoon.

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is renowned for its spectacular alpine scenery, magnificent glaciers and dizzying collection of natural features, from lush forests to cascading waterfalls. There's no denying the park's natural beauty as you cross the Continental Divide at Logan Pass to embark on the scenic 52-mile drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Though the road is closed in winter, when the snowcapped landscape makes for difficult driving conditions, in summer and fall, you can embrace the emerald alpine lakes below and take breaks at must-see spots like Wild Goose Island Lookout for the perfect photo op.

Kalalau lookout over the Napali coast from the Kokee State Park, Kauai, Hawaii.

Na Pali Coast: Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai's coral reefs, craggy cliffs and rugged trails attract those with an eye for beauty and a zest for adrenaline-infused adventures. There's no better way to take in Kauai's natural charms than along its most iconic coastline. Along the 17-mile Na Pali Coast, you can zigzag past waterfalls, beaches and lush emerald cliffs. For a sense of the shoreline's jagged ridges and imposing 3,000-foot peaks and deep valleys, admire the coastline from below by kayak from Haena Beach Park. Or, if you're feeling more intrepid, hike along the Kalalau Trail, an arduous 11-mile journey with challenging uphill inclines and rugged terrain that yields breathtaking coastal views.

USA , Hawaii, Lanai, Garden of the Gods, Red dirt road and 4x4

Garden of the Gods: Colorado Springs, Colorado

An assortment of spiraling red sandstone rock formations that are nearly 300 million years old, the 1,367-acre Garden of the Gods is a sight to behold. The jagged outline of Pikes Peaks looms dramatically in the distance of these rust-colored monoliths, which have been sculpted to form ethereal-looking structures and given names that reflect their distinctive shapes, such as the Kissing Camels and the Three Graces. One of the most renowned pillars is Balanced Rock, which as it's name suggests, is a monumental rock with a jagged frame that's artfully stayed in place over time. Check out the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center to learn about the mysterious rocks and join a guided nature walk.

Charleston, South Carolina, USA in the French Quarter.

Historic District: Charleston, South Carolina

With its Spanish moss, historic architecture, coastal scenery and graceful antebellum mansions, Charleston oozes Southern charm. And there's no better place to get a sense of the city's surroundings than the historic district, where gas lamp-lined streets, cobblestone corners, horse-drawn carriage rides and storied buildings reflect a variety of architectural periods, from art deco to Italianate. Take some time to explore can't-miss museums, galleries and boutiques. Then, visit Charleston City Market for a sweetgrass basket – a must-have souvenir – before checking into one of the upscale and iconic hotels in the area, including Wentworth Mansion and Planters Inn.

(John Elk II | Getty Images)

Canyon Road: Santa Fe, New Mexico

A must-see for any art lover, Canyon Road brims with contemporary art treasures across more than 100 galleries. Yet there's even more to soak in here, with traditional adobe architecture and authentic Native American crafts, jewelry and galleries showcasing pieces in all mediums and styles – from photography to woodcuts and sculptures. And with its picturesque setting, with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains rising in the backdrop, the half-mile-long stretch is unlike any other. Breaks from admiring the area's beautiful art and cultural gems can include shopping, unwinding in the lovely gardens near El Zaguan, checking out local bookstores or grabbing a bite at a renowned spot like Geronimo Restaurant.

Tunnel View of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.

El Capitan, Yosemite National Park

El Capitan – the imposing 3,000-foot granite rock etched into the Yosemite Valley – is a prized and bucket list-worthy national park attraction, Alipio says. Located across from Bridalveil Fall, the iconic cliff can be seen across the Yosemite Valley. When you're not admiring the smooth face of El Capitan (or catching sight of daring climbers and mountaineers scaling the surface), check out more spectacular natural attractions, such as Half Dome, Glacier Points and the John Muir Trail.

Jackson Lake Magic at Jackson Hole in Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Experience Grand Teton's spectacular mountain scenery, punctuated by rugged trails, snow-covered peaks and reflective alpine lakes on a trip to remember. Whether you want to mountain climb, cross-country ski, bike, boat or horseback ride, there's an outdoor activity calling your name. You can also join ranger-guided hikes or enjoy wildlife-viewing, with fascinating species, such as bison, moose and coyotes along the way. Prime lookout points can be found in the Jenny Lake District. Strap on a pair of hiking boots, and join a guide on the Inspiration Point Hike for lovely vistas.

Forsyth Park: Savannah, Georgia

For the nature or history lover, Savannah beckons with its Spanish moss-covered gardens, historic homes and antebellum architecture. And the top place on your itinerary should be the 30-acre Forsyth Park, which hosts popular events like the Savannah Jazz Festival and displays noteworthy sculptures and memorials, along with the world-renowned Forsyth Park fountain. After checking out the park's memorials, which include sites commemorating the Spanish-American War, and admiring the 300-year-old Candler Oak Tree, check out other historic attractions, such as the Bonaventure Cemetery and the Mercer Williams House, known for its role in "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

The opening day of the new National Museum of African American History and Culture. in Washington, DC on September 24, 2016.

Smithsonian Institution Museums: Washington, District of Columbia

Aside from high-profile politicians and iconic memorials, the nation's capital is chock-full of cultural and artistic treasures, including the Smithsonian's collection of 19 museums. With free entry, it's hard to resist the district's standout cultural and educational institutions, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Air and Space Museum and the Hirshhorn Museum. Whether you want to attend lectures, performances or tours, there's plenty of ways to experience Washington's beloved museums. Kids can even fulfill a "Night at the Museum" fantasy – complete with an IMAX film feature, crafts projects and sleeping bags – during the "Smithsonian Sleepovers" series at select D.C. museums in the summertime.

Hidden Valley: Joshua Tree National Park, California

With jaw-dropping desert scenery, prickly Joshua trees and distinct boulder rock formations, Joshua Tree National Park mesmerizes visitors with its eye-catching landscapes. With two unique desert ecosystems – the Colorado and the Mojave – the park offers varied scenes, from Joshua trees framed by giant boulders and candy-colored desert sunsets in Hidden Valley to the cholla cactus- and ocotillo-filled Cholla Cactus Garden. Beyond the Hidden Valley, another must-see area is Keys View, where you can take in sweeping vistas of Coachella Valley, the San Andreas Fault and the Santa Rosa Mountains, granting picture-perfect photo ops.

Black sand beach, Waianapanapa State Park, Maui, Hawaii

Road to Hana: Maui, Hawaii

Gazing at the magnificent waterfalls, craggy cliffs and black-sand coastline along the 52-mile Road to Hana is practically a rite of passage when visiting Maui. With hair-raising turns and spellbinding lookouts, you'll want to carve out plenty of stops and spring for a four-wheel-drive car. Highlights include the 25-acre Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden, which you might remember as a setting backdrop in Jurassic Park, and Waianapanapa State Park, where distinct natural attractions such as sea caves and black-tinted beaches abound. Start your journey in Kahului and finish in the town of Hana, a remote area with few visitors and lush landscapes filled with tropical greenery and breadfruit trees.

Creation rock at the world famous Red Rocks Amphitheater in colorado which hosts many music acts as well as easter services.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre: Morrison, Colorado

Sandstone cliffs, rugged hiking trails and ochre-hued buttes are just a few draws of Red Rocks Park, situated roughly 16 miles west of downtown Denver. Another top enticement is the open-air, high-altitude amphitheater, which offers a striking setting and excellent acoustics. A variety of acclaimed bands have performed in the 6,450-foot venue, including U2 and the Beatles. Plan a visit to Red Rocks to catch a show to remember and stick around for the area's fascinating geological attractions and scenery along the Trading Post Trail, a 1.4-mile route that passes by valleys, a meadow and unique rock formations.

USA, New York, New York, couple siteseeing

The Metropolitan Museum of Art: New York City

With world-renowned galleries, museums and art and theater enclaves, the city that never sleeps is an art lover's playground. And there's no better place to get your culture fix than the Met. Peruse galleries brimming with masterpieces of legends such as Renoir, Van Gogh, Goya, Cézanne and Degas. The first floor's impressive collection showcases an eclectic range of pieces, from ancient Egyptian art to Greek and Roman works. While you won't be able to take in all of its splendor and extensive collections in one day, carve out time to explore must-visit highlights, like the Temple of Dendur.

The Narrows: Zion National Park, Utah

If your perfect bucket-list includes hitting scenic hiking trails, it's hard to rival the otherworldly landscapes in Utah's Zion National Park. The Narrows, a sandstone gorge surrounded by 2,000- to 3,000-foot-high imposing crimson- and rust-tinted vertical canyon walls and the Virgin River, abounds with spectacular vantage points and unique geological features, including hanging gardens and natural springs. The 16-mile trek from the trailhead at Chamberlain's Ranch can be arduous, but the awe-inspiring views are unrivaled. An easier way to reach the Narrows is from the Temple of Sinawava, about a 10-mile trek. Arrive in late spring or early summer, when the water levels dip and the weather is optimal; check current conditions before you go.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park: West Virginia

"The Appalachian Trail really is the mother of all hiking trails," Alipio says. "Sections of it are very accessible to even the most hike-averse travelers," she adds, highlighting a section that loops through Harpers Ferry that's about the trail’s halfway point and where the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is headquartered. The park features nearly 20 miles of hiking trails with diverse landscapes, from historic battlefields to rolling mountain backdrops. Take your pick from hiking, kayaking, rafting or zip lining, among other pursuits, along the trail. After embracing the great outdoors, head to the charming West Virginia town for a leisurely coffee at Lost Dog Coffee or a memorable meal the Bavarian Inn.

(SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images)

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Nashville

If anywhere captures the rich musical history of Nashville, it's the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Here, you'll find a vast collection of music artifacts from around the globe. Admire gold and platinum country records lining the walls and the wealth of plaques on display paying homage to stars such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton. Other artifacts include songbooks, photographs, costumes and even historical cars (think: Elvis Presley's iconic gold Cadillac). You won't want to skip checking out Studio B, where legendary hits were recorded, from "All I Have to Do Is Dream" by the Everly Brothers to "Jolene" by Dolly Parton.

Independence Hall National Historic Park Philadelphia at twilight

Independence Hall: Philadelphia

There are plenty of must-visit historical attractions in the City of Brotherly Love to pique your interest, from the Liberty Bell to Rittenhouse Square, but a can't-miss place for any history buff is Independence Hall . At the Georgian-style building, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were deliberated and signed, and today you can tag along a guided tour and check out the Assembly Room. To continue your knowledge binge, brush up on the history of Liberty Bell; then, admire the memorial of unknown soldiers who served in the American Revolution and George Washington at Washington Square.

The Statue of Liberty: New York City

A legendary 152-foot New York City landmark, the Statue of Liberty has stood as a beacon of freedom for all Americans since 1886. Of course, you can take in the instantly recognizable statue gracing the skyline from a variety of spots across the city, but for a closer angle, you'll want to book tickets with a ferry operator offering tours to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan. Just remember to book an e-ticket to skirt the long lines and arrive early for a pain-free security screening. For fewer tourist crowds, take in Lady Liberty from the High Line, the sprawling landscaped park occupying an abandoned rail track across the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen.

First light at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: Hawaii

Kilauea, an epic 4,000-foot active volcano that's been erupting continuously from its East Rift Zone since 1983, is jaw-dropping from a variety of angles, Howard says. Start your trip at the Jaggar Museum or the Chain of Craters Road, or if you're feeling brave, drive or walk along the challenging 11-mile Crater Rim Trail, where you can wind past the Kilauea caldera and meander through verdant rain forest and desert landscapes. You can also join free ranger-led programs, which include guest presentations and junior programs catering to younger visitors ages 7 to 12. The imposing volcano is striking, particularly at night, when the fiery molten lava stands in stark contrast against the sky.

Looking up at the redwood trees at Muir Woods in San Francisco.

Redwood National Park: California

Even if you're not an avid hiker or nature lover, it's hard to resist the splendor of the giant, 350-foot-tall sequoia trees spanning Redwood National Park. The park boasts over 200 miles of trails to pick from, but an ideal way to experience the tall trees on a quick getaway is along the 9-mile Coastal Drive, a narrow and picturesque route that winds past unrivaled Pacific Ocean lookout points, the Klamath River and redwood groves. Along the Coastal Trail off U.S. Highway 101, take a break at Crescent Beach Section to enjoy a picnic area and admire Sitka spruces and the occasional Roosevelt elk. Another must: the Fern Canyon Loop Trail, which offers striking coastal vistas and old-growth redwoods.

Cadillac Mountain: Acadia National Park, Maine

The chance to catch an envy-inducing sunrise from the 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain – the tallest point along the Eastern Seaboard – is a main draw for visiting Acadia National Park. Plan to visit between October and March for an especially memorable sunrise – and the first view of the sun rising across the country. A top way to take in the scenery is along the 27-mile Park Loop Road, which weaves past Sand Beach, Otter Cliffs, Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain. Carve out some time for a leisurely picnic, explore other notable places in the park, such as the Precipice Trail and Thunder Hole, and embrace the natural surroundings in all their grandeur along Acadia's car-free carriage roads.

Mendenhall Glacier, located outside of downtown Juneau in Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier: Juneau, Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier in southeast Alaska, just outside of downtown Juneau, lures visitors looking to catch sight of Alaska's icy attractions and vast wilderness. Brush up on the history of the glacier at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which offers a film and exhibits highlighting how climate change has impacted the melting and retreating natural wonder. The glacier – unlike others in Alaska – is uniquely accessible to visitors along a variety of nature trails. The East Glacier Loop Trail offers a scenic route, and some trails even meander past imposing waterfalls and impressive creatures, from porcupines to black bears to sockeye salmon.

Waikiki Beach: Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu is known for its gorgeous sands and famous surf culture, and there's no better place to embrace the aloha spirit and perfect your wave-skimming (or bodyboarding) skills than Waikiki Beach . With Diamond Head crater in the distance and a bounty of top-tier hotels, including the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, fringing the legendary shorelines, it's easy to enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, as you lounge along the sands, snorkel in coral-filled waters or ride the waves. Hans Hedemann Surf School teaches the art of surfing, bodyboarding and stand-up paddleboarding, plus it offers variety of rental equipment – think: short boards, snorkel gear and even bikes.

Alcatraz Island and the San Francisco Bay.

Alcatraz Island: San Francisco

Aside from walking across the Golden Gate Bridge and visiting the bustling Ferry Building Marketplace, touring Alcatraz Island is a must for any first-time visitor to the City by the Bay. Perched on a small, craggy isle in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz (or, simply, "The Rock" to those in the know) was formerly a prison that included some of America's most nefarious criminals, from Al Capone to Alvin Karpis, and today you can retrace the area's history on a guided audio tour. Ferries operated by Alcatraz Cruises depart from Pier 33; booking reservations in advance is recommended by the National Park Service.

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

PHOTO: Tyler Hanson, of Fort Rucker, Ala., watches the sun moments before the total eclipse, Aug. 21, 2017, in Nashville, Tenn.

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path.

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

PHOTO: People watch a partial solar eclipse from the roof deck at the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge on Aug. 21, 2017 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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Top 10 things to know before traveling to Ireland

Mar 27, 2024 • 9 min read

From pub etiquette to catching public transport – here's what you need to know before you to Ireland © Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

A lifetime of living in Ireland has given me some insight into the vagaries of my home country, beginning with the number one rule: never assume anything. This is a country that delights in confounding even your most comfortable expectations about pretty much everything, from the weather to the quality of the wifi.

Here are 10 tips that I’m pretty comfortable giving anyone who plans a visit, whether for the first time or the fifth. I’ve got some practical tips around VAT refunds and the most efficient ways to get around, but then there’s a bunch of suggestions on how to crack the mightiest nut of all – the Irish themselves. Because be in no doubt, while Ireland has gorgeous landscapes, a rich history and the best pubs in the world, your visit will only be truly memorable if you get to know the people – friendly and welcoming but often contradictory and inscrutable.

1. Plan on at least seven days to start making sense of the country

Ireland is small, but there’s an awful lot to it. Luckily, distances in Ireland aren’t huge so you can get most anywhere in a few hours, but the list of where to go can get very long, very quickly.

It’ll take you a couple of days to even begin to make a dent in Dublin , but once you go beyond the capital you’ll need at least five days to make a lightening stop tour of the major highlights of the west: Galway and Connemara, Clare (where you’ll find the Cliffs of Moher and the most authentic traditional music in the country), Kerry (you’ll need a whole day just for the Ring of Kerry and another for the Dingle Peninsula ) and Cork , only it’s time to go home so you can only make enough time for Cork City .

Clearly the only solution is to plan for a month; at the end of it, you’ll be wanting to stay a year.

Older woman happily trekking in the mountains around Kenmare.

2. Keep it to casual wear

The Irish aren’t big on formal wear and only pull it out for very specific occasions (a wedding, a ball, the opening of a parliamentary session). Which means you can wear pretty much whatever you want: smart casual is the most you'll need for fancy dinners, the theatre or the concert hall.

Irish summers are warm but rarely hot, so you'll want something extra when the temperatures cool, especially in the evening. Ultimately the ever-changeable weather will determine your outfits, but a light waterproof jacket should never be beyond reach for the almost-inevitable rain. If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking – in cities or on hills – a good pair of walking shoes, preferably waterproof, will do the trick.

Add these top beaches around Ireland to your travel itinerary.

3. The land of a 100,000 welcomes

Céad míle fáilte – literally, 100,000 welcomes. The famous Irish greeting suggests a country that is big on displays of affection, but nothing could be further from the truth. A firm handshake – with eye contact – is the appropriate greeting when meeting men, women and older children for the first time. Once a friendship is made, then all bets are off and anything goes, from a hug and a kiss on the cheek (primarily amongst female friends) to an air nod and a casual "hey".

Younger Irish are less formal than their older counterparts, but even they generally eschew effusive greetings: more often than not, a quick handshake and a casual nod is the best way to say hello for the first time.

4. The Irish love to talk, until they don’t

The Irish are renowned for their chat, but with people they don’t know particularly well they generally like to keep it to topics that are light and not likely to embarrass. Despite their gregarious nature, the Irish tend to be reserved when it comes to life’s more serious issues and are very mistrustful of "oversharers".

The old adage that the Irish will talk about anything except sex, religion and politics is something of an over-simplification, but if you do find yourself steering into deeper waters around sensitive topics it’s always better to listen: locals aren’t shy about getting into heated discussion amongst themselves about all kinds of topics but take a dim view of outsiders who express (even legitimate) criticisms of Ireland or the Irish.

5. You’d better learn about the rounds system

It’s a firm rule of drinking with locals. If someone buys you a drink, you’re obliged to buy them one back – this is the bedrock of Irish pub culture. Nothing will hasten your fall from social grace here like the failure to uphold this pub law.

The time to repay the drink you’re drinking? It’s when the person you’re drinking with is just about to finish theirs. It doesn’t matter if you’re halfway through your own drink at that moment: you can’t let your drinking buddy sit in front of an empty glass. Your greatest challenge will probably be trying to keep up with your fellow drinkers, who may keep buying you drinks in every round even when you've still got a collection of unfinished pints in front of you and you're sliding face first down the bar.

A young, mixed-race couple laughing together in Temple Bar, Dublin

6. The best way to visit cities is on foot or by public transport

Driving and parking in Irish cities is a nightmare. There’s no free parking anywhere; the unrelenting traffic will test even the most patient of drivers; and the one-way systems in major urban centres will confound you to the point of madness (although map apps are pretty good at pointing you in the right direction).

The good news is you don’t need a car to visit any Irish city. Dublin, the biggest by far, has a pretty decent system of public transport, but even then most of the major sights are within walking distance of each other. Same goes for Cork, Belfast, Limerick and Galway, which are more easily explored without a car.

Save this guide to the best road trips in Ireland.

7. The easiest way to explore Ireland is by car

If cities are best experienced without a car, the most effective way to explore the rest of the country is with one. The bus network, made up of a mix of public and private operators, is extensive and generally quite competitive, though journey times can be slow and lots of the points of interest outside towns are not served. The rail network is quicker but more limited, serving only some major towns and cities. Both buses and trains get busy during peak times; you'll need to book in advance to be guaranteed a seat.

Cars can be hired in every major town and city. The Irish drive on the left hand side; distances and speed limits in the Republic are measured in kilometres, but once you cross the invisible border into Northern Ireland everything switches to miles.

8. Ireland is good cycling country

Ireland's compact size and scenic landscapes make it a good cycling destination, albeit one you need to prepare for. The weather is unreliable, roads can be very narrow and Irish drivers tend to drive quickly, even on those narrow roads. A growing network of greenways, such as the 42km Great Western Greenway in County Mayo and the Royal Canal Greenway that runs through the midlands, are a great and hassle-free way to see the country from two wheels. A good tip for cyclists in the west is that the prevailing winds make it easier to cycle from south to north.

Buses will carry bikes, but only if there’s room. Intercity trains will also carry bikes, but you’ll need to book a space in advance as there’s limited capacity. Suburban rail services in Dublin won’t take bikes during rush hour (7am to 10am and 4pm to 7pm). A number of Irish companies arrange cycle tours, including Go Visit Ireland and Cycling Safaris .

A scene from the annual Christmas Day swim, with hundreds of swimmers turning up for a leap into the water at the Forty Foot this morning, in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin.

9. Pick the right season to travel in Ireland

June to mid-September is high season: the weather is at its best and the most popular parts of the country – Dublin , Kerry and the southern and western coasts – are at their busiest. The downside is big crowds and the highest rates for accommodation and car hire.

Rates drop off from mid-September as the crowds start to thin, but most tourist spots are still open to take advantage of the last weeks of the season. Although weather can never be predicted with any degree of accuracy, the weather can be surprisingly lovely right up to mid-October.

Low season runs from November to the middle of March; Irish winter days are short, damp and cold, but the upside is fewer visitors and some terrific accommodation deals. A lot of the west coast goes into winter hibernation, though, with a lot of attractions and hotels closing down; if you’re planning to visit during this time you should check what’s open before you travel.

Ready to head to Ireland? These are the best times to visit.

10. Claim your VAT back if you’re visiting from outside the EU

Most goods come with value-added tax (VAT) of 23%, which non-EU residents can claim back as part of the Retail Export Scheme, so long as the purchase was made with a credit card. Visitors from the UK can also benefit from this, but not visitors from Northern Ireland.

Before making a purchase, check with the retailer that they operate the scheme. If they do, you will be issued an export voucher for the purchase, which you need to get certified by customs when you leave Ireland. The voucher is sent back to the retailer who then refunds you the VAT (minus any processing fee).

Rather than operate the scheme themselves, many retailers use VAT-refunding agencies, whereby you go through the same process of presenting the agency’s own certificate at customs. Some agencies, though, operate a scheme where you don’t pay any VAT upfront, but if you don’t file the paperwork correctly (either sending it back to the agency or presenting it to customs) your card will be charged later. Some goods such as books, children's clothing and educational items are excluded from VAT.

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The best places to visit in the USA for every month of 2023

Best places to visit in the USA, by month

1. January: Colorado

2. February: Yellowstone National Park

3. March: Hawaii

4. April: Washington DC

5. May: The Mighty Five

6. June: The West Coast

7. July: Alaska

8. August: Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island

9. September: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

10. October: New Mexico

11. November: Las Vegas

12. December: Miami

Top 12 Places to Visit in the US

New York City

Los Angeles

Washington, D.C.

San Francisco

New Orleans

Asheville, North Carolina

Sedona and the Grand Canyon

25 Best Places to Visit in the USA

25. Aspen [SEE MAP]

24. Atlanta [SEE MAP]

23. Yosemite National Park [SEE MAP]

22. Portland [SEE MAP]

21. San Antonio [SEE MAP]

20. Savannah [SEE MAP]

19. Philadelphia [SEE MAP]

18. Sedona [SEE MAP]

17. San Diego [SEE MAP]

16. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

15. New Orleans [SEE MAP]

14. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

13. Boston [SEE MAP]

12. Miami [SEE MAP]

11. Seattle [SEE MAP]

10. Hawaii [SEE MAP]

9. Orlando [SEE MAP]

8. Washington DC [SEE MAP]

7. Los Angeles [SEE MAP]

6. Chicago [SEE MAP]

5. Yellowstone [SEE MAP]

4. Las Vegas [SEE MAP]

3. San Francisco [SEE MAP]

2. Grand Canyon [SEE MAP]

1. New York City [SEE MAP]

Map of the USA

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24 Best Places to Visit in the United States

1. New York

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