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10 Best States to Visit in the USA

By Jamie Gambetta · Last updated on February 5, 2024

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

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

10. Washington

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

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

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


9. Wyoming

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

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

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


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

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

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


7. Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


4. New York

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

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

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

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


2. Florida

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

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

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


1. California

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

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

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October 4, 2023 at 7:43 am

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

October 4, 2023 at 2:55 pm

That would be Southern California.

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

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

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

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

50. Delaware

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

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

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

49. Mississippi

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

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

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

48. Indiana

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

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

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

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

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

46. Arkansas

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

Don't expect much to do here.

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

45. Nebraska

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

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

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

44. Oklahoma

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

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

43. Connecticut

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

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

42. North Dakota

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

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

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

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

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

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

40. New Hampshire

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

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

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

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

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

38. Alabama

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

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

37. South Dakota

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

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

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

36. West Virginia

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

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

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

35. Rhode Island

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

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

34. Maryland

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

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

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

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

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

32. Minnesota

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

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

31. Vermont

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

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

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

30. Kentucky

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

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

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

29. Wyoming

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

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

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

28. Pennsylvania

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

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

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

27. Missouri

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

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

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

26. Montana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23. Wisconsin

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

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

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

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

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

21. South Carolina

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

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

20. Georgia

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

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

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

19. Michigan

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

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

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

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

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

17. New Jersey

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

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

16. New Mexico

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. North Carolina

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

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

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

13. Virginia

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

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

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

12. Illinois

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

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

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

11. Massachusetts

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

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

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

10. Tennessee

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

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

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

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

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

8. Washington

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

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

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

7. Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Louisiana

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

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

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

4. New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

My 31 Favorite Places to Visit in the USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. New Orleans

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

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

4. Asheville

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

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

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

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

6. Redwood National Park

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

7. Glacier National Park

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

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

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

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

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

10. New York City

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

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

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

11. Natchez

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

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

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

12. Savannah

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

13. The Grand Canyon

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

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

14. Nashville

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

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

15. San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

17. San Diego

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

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

19. Lake Tahoe

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

20. Anywhere in Montana

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

21. Washington D.C.

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

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

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

22. Cape Cod

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

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

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

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

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

24. Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

25. Portland

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

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

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

26. Seattle

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

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

27. Deadwood

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

28. Kansas City

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

29. Louisville

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

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

30. Charleston

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

31. Franklin

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The best states to visit in the USA

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

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

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

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

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

What to do in California

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

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

Where to stay in California

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

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

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

What to do in Colorado

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

Where to stay in Colorado

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

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

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

What to do in Massachusetts

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

Where to stay in Massachusetts

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

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

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

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

What to do in Wisconsin

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

Where to stay in Wisconsin

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

Downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin © F11photo/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Utah is home to some of the biggest and most beautiful landscapes in North America. With brightly coloured canyons and thickly forested mountains, Utah is one of the best places to visit in the USA.

What to do in Utah

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

Where to stay in Utah

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

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

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

What to do in Lousiana

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

Where to stay in Louisiana

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

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

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

What to do in Wyoming

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

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Where to stay in Wyoming

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

Grand Teton, Wyoming © Shutterstock

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

What to do in Washington

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

Where to stay in Washington

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

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

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

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

What to do in Hawaii

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

Where to stay in Hawaii

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

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

Beach Lava Boulders and Shipwreck view © JMT2064/Shutterstock

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

What to do in New York

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

Where to stay in New York

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

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

Whiteface Mountain, Adirondacks, New York © nyker/Shutterstock

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

What to do in Texas:

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

Where to stay in Texas:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

noblige / GETTY IMAGES

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

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

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

The Top 20 Most Fun State in America

• Pennsylvania
• North Carolina
• South Carolina

10 Best States to Visit in the U.S. This Year

Which u.s. state offers the most unique travel experiences.

The best states to visit in the United States will differ according to who you ask. Some residents will rave about their home state, while others have fond memories of vacations across the country. That being said, if you're a traveler from outside the United States and looking for the top destinations to visit, your criteria for "best" are going to be a little different from those of a U.S. resident.

You want to explore places that offer plenty to do and see, with numerous travel-focused amenities and unique experiences that cannot be found just anywhere. Based on these criteria, here are the top states to consider for your next trip to the U.S..

Big cities and big skies in New York State

New York is a state of contrasts. Most people are familiar with the state for its iconic city, New York City, of course. If you're a traveler who enjoys urban tourism and destinations brimming with activities and attractions, you'll definitely want to visit its museums, food, theaters, and other exciting offerings.

However, New York has much more to offer. Venture north of the city, and you'll discover an abundance of mountains and forests. The Catskills region is just a short drive from Manhattan, but for even more outdoor adventures, explore the northern part of the state, where you'll find the Adirondacks. This region is characterized by its majestic mountains, rushing rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls, making it the largest park in the contiguous United States and encompassing approximately 20% of the state's landmass.

Tropical flair and family fun

Florida is undeniably one of the most sought-after vacation destinations for Americans, and it's easy to see why. The state not only houses numerous expansive theme parks in Orlando but also offers an extensive coastline with breathtaking beaches on both its eastern and western sides.

When choosing a Florida beach to visit, it's worth considering that the northern Florida beaches tend to be slightly cooler, even well into the spring months. If you're seeking year-round sunshine, high temperatures, vibrant nightlife, exceptional cuisine, and rich art and culture, your best bet is to head all the way south to Miami. For a taste of beautiful tropical vibes, venture even further south to the Florida Keys.

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Celebs, tall trees, and wine.

California is much like New York in that it is primarily known for its most popular destinations – like Hollywood and Los Angeles – but the state, being as big as it is, provides travelers with far more to love than just the city life.

Sure, you'll want to see what all the fuss is about in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, but also consider traveling up the Pacific coastline via a fun road trip or diving into the deep forests of northern California, where you'll see some of the tallest trees on the entire planet. Don't miss wine country either if that's your thing.

Where everything's "bigger"

Texas is bigger than some countries, so you could easily plan a trip to just Texas and fill out an itinerary. This 2nd-largest state in the country offers beaches, deserts, its own wine country, and even swamps and woodlands.

With large airports in Dallas and Houston, Texas is easily accessible from nearly any other spot on the globe. Once you arrive, though, consider thoroughly exploring Texas's urban side before heading on a road trip. Driving between favorite Texan destinations like Houston, Austin, Dallas, and San Antonio can give you a broader look at the state's history, food scene, and culture that's all its own.

Outdoors and adrenaline-pumping activities

Colorado is an adventurer's paradise, and this state is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its range of outdoor offerings year-round. In the summer, you'll find ample hiking opportunities, with options for every skill level, whether you fancy a multi-day hiking trip into the backwoods or just want to take a leisurely walk in nature. 

In the winter, snow sports abound, with loads of ski neighborhoods and resorts scattered across the mountains. For those who prefer indoor activities, though, Denver is the place to go, with its museums, restaurants, major sports teams, and other attractions.

Remote and vast wilderness

Alaska lies cut off from the rest of the United States, on the far side of Canada and closer to Russia than the U.S.. Alaska's remoteness and vast wilderness mean it's not a popular pick for many travelers.

Despite that, for those who do visit Alaska, they'll tell you there's nowhere else like it in the world. The rugged terrain, the dangerous wildlife, the towering mountains, the extreme weather – this is not a destination for the faint of heart. However, if you prefer to travel in luxury, you won't be left out in the Alaskan cold. Luxury cruises frequently travel to Alaska, and luxury resorts allow you to take in the dramatic scenery in comfort.

The famous tropical state

Hawaii is cut off from the United States. This group of islands sits far out in the Pacific Ocean, separated from the rest of the world by thousands of miles of water. The tropical state's beauty makes it a favorite for travelers from all over the world, who flock to the pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rocky coastlines.

Whether you're a beach bum looking for a spot in the sun, a luxury traveler with a preference for 5-star resorts and spas, an adventurer looking for a thrill, or a foodie with a taste for local flavors, Hawaii has something for you to love.

Quaint coastal vibes 

Maine is the northernmost state on the U.S. East Coast. It is known as a quaint, cozy destination where you can enjoy charming little seaside towns, hiking along rugged coastlines, and loads of fresh seafood. 

For a mix of outdoor adventure and cute coastal towns, visit Bar Harbor, which is the gateway to Acadia National Park. For food and culture, try Portland, to the south, one of Maine's largest cities (though it's still not large in comparison to many other East Coast locales).

• Massachusetts

For a dose of U.S. history

Massachusetts may be a small state, but it offers big ways to play. That's whether you're interested in hiking or skiing (which you can find in the Berkshires) or spending time on the beach or coast. However, where the state really shines is in its history. 

Massachusetts is packed with historical significance. The state was home to Indigenous populations for thousands upon thousands of years. It also played a huge role in the American colonization that occurred from the 1600s onward. Later, it would be a prominent player in the fight for American independence. You can experience all of these historical aspects of the state with a visit to the towns and cities along the coast.

A place to channel your inner cowboy

Wyoming is the place to visit for an authentic taste of the Wild, Wild West. The state still embraces its wild and untamed history, offering plenty of ways to explore the wilderness, whether you prefer hiking, skiing, wildlife watching, or simply sightseeing at some of the state's natural attractions. 

The most popular point of interest in Wyoming is undoubtedly Yellowstone National Park, but you'll find lots to do around the rest of the state as well. For an immersive experience, consider booking a stay at one of the area's cattle ranches.

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

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

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New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miami, Florida

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Diego, California

From Maria of San Diego Explorer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Austin, Texas

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

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

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

Want to get out of town?

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

New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

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

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

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

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

Washington, DC

From Jordan of The Solo Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

San Francisco, California

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

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

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

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

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

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

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chicago, Illinois

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Houston, Texas

From Thanh of The Traveling Asian

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Las Vegas, Nevada

From Kimberley of Two Travelling Toques

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

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

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

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

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

Nightlife also takes center stage here.

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

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

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

Savannah, Georgia

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

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

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

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

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

Have enough time for a quick  day trip ?

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

Los Angeles, California

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seattle, Washington

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

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

Looking for interesting neighborhoods?

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

Hoping to spend some time outside?

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

Charleston, South Carolina

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orlando, Florida

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

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

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

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

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

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

Portland, Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

Nashville, Tennessee

From Apryl of Southern Traveling Gal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Save some room for some barbecue from Peg Leg Porker!

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

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

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

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

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

Boston, Massachusetts

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Acadia National Park, Maine

From Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joshua Tree National Park, California

From Monica of This Rare Earth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joshua Tree is roughly 2.5 hours outside of Los Angeles.

From Chris of Called to Wander

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Dan of Cabin Critic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

From Michele of Adventures Abound

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

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

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

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

Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?

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

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

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

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

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

Arches National Park, Utah

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

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

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

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

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

Olympic National Park, Washington

From Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

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

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

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

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

Death Valley National Park, California

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It truly is a spectacular thing to see!

Rocky Mountain National Park

From Jyoti of Story At Every Corner

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

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

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

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

The easiest way to visit RMNP park is by car.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Havasu Falls, Arizona

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

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

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

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

Zion National Park, Utah

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

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

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

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

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

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

Texas Bluebonnet Trail

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

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

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

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

From Emily of Em’s on the Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Redwood National Forest

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

From Jase of Roaming Vegans

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maui, Hawaii

From Jessica of I’m Jess Traveling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

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

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

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

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

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

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

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

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

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

Florida Keys

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

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

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

Big Island, Hawaii

From Patricia of Travel Fam Life

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

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

Hawaii is going to impress anyone that decides to visit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Outer Banks, North Carolina

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

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

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

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

Oahu, Hawaii

From Sydney of A World in Reach

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

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

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

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

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal or some of the best Asian food in the United States, you can easily find a delicious meal in Honolulu.

Start your visit to Oahu off by exploring Honolulu, seeing the sights, and eating all of the delicious food.

Spend a day at Waikiki Beach – it might be touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.

Plan a visit to Pearl Harbor, where you can learn more about one of the darkest days in US History, and spend a morning hiking Diamond Head, one of the best hikes on Oahu .

Spend the rest of your time on the island exploring the North Shore, visiting the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and indulging in shave ice from Matsumoto.

Visit the beaches along the North Shore, where you might see some surfers catching waves, and hike through a botanical garden to a beautiful waterfall at Waimea Valley.

Napa Valley, California

Northern California’s wine country is definitely among the most beautiful–and for wine lovers, tastiest, places to visit in the USA.

With beautiful small towns, great boutiques, and rolling hills filled with vineyards that almost feel like being in Tuscany, both Napa Valley and Sonoma County have plenty to offer those looking for a laid-back, wine-filled getaway.

Door County, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Wisconsin often isn’t the first US state that people think of visiting, but from beautiful beaches to quirky attractions like House on the Rock , it has plenty to offer.

One of the most beautiful USA landmarks, Door Country, Wisconsin welcomes you on board with 300 miles of stretched shoreline and an awestruck sunset over the water, you could not leave without a witness. 

It allows your soul to breathe and relax. Wisconsin lets you explore aesthetic art galleries, and thousands of miles of stretched orchards, cherish the local brews and wines, paddle along the beautiful lakes, and devour the cheery pies.

Moreover, Green Bay, the capital of the region, is an underrated city that eventually captivates its visitors.

Though it’s a small city, the vibrant culture offers amazing  things to do in Green Bay .

Green Bay entertains visitors with prominent wineries. They produce their wines right up there which adds up to be a vital part of their culture. The landscape and heritage inspire the artists.

Walleye fishermen have the best water. It’s clean and portrays immense beauty. The botanical gardens and zoological parks play their role in charming travelers. 

Green Bay is an enchanting place that charms visitors with its intriguing features. 

Route 66 isn’t technically just one place, but as one of the most iconic travel destinations in the United States, I couldn’t bear to leave it off this USA bucket list!

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is America’s best-known road trip and the perfect place to find not-quite-forgotten slices of Americana, from quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch and the Catoosa Whale to beloved diners and 50s-era-inspired motels.

Route 66 passes through nine states in total (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California), and is a fantastic way to experience some of the best of what traveling in the US has to offer, all in one large trip.

Big cities, small towns, incredibly diverse landscapes, and beloved national parks are all featured heavily on Route 66.

Though it’s not technically on the route, even the Grand Canyon is accessible as an incredible side journey when road-tripping Route 66.

Whether you want to find a quirky campsite in Oklahoma or go hiking in Arizona, there’s no doubt that Route 66 is a classic US travel destination.

Big Sur, California

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the US and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Cruising along the winding Pacific Coast Highway with sweeping views of the Pacific is a magical experience.

This rugged area is located in Central California, about 5 hours north of Los Angeles.

If you aren’t able to find available lodging within Big Sur, check out nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey for more options, or try car camping with an epic view!

There are plenty of amazing  things to do in Big Sur .

I definitely recommend checking out the iconic Bixby Bridge (as seen in HBO’s Big Little Lies), admiring McWay Falls, hiking in Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park, having a drink with a view at Nepenthe and watching the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach!

There’s not much cell service in Big Sur, so be prepared for an off-the-grid weekend of relaxation and gorgeous views.

Page, Arizona

The small town of Page, Arizona may seem like no more than a small town worthy of a brief stop on a road trip at first blush–but this small, unassuming town is home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire southwest, and it definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Page is where you can find the famous Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend , the Instagram darling of the Colorado River (for very good reason).

Just outside of Page, you can also find the remarkable Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US, as well as Lake Powell–but to see the best of Lake Powell, you’ll actually need to cross into Utah!

That’s not hard to do, though: Page is located right next to the Arizona/Utah border.

With such an outsized list of fun attractions, there’s no doubt that Page is one of the coolest places to vacation in the USA.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US”

Great info. I know its great because I have been to most of the beaches you mention!

Thank you – will also look at your Italian small towns to see which ones we should visit and maybe retire to.

Thank you so much, Laura!

Retiring to Italy–sounds like quite the dream! 🙂

Absolutely amazing article, just loved it.

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• Homeroom Travel

The 10 Best States to Visit in the United States

• August 13, 2020
• 35 Comments

The United States is a gorgeous country with a diversity of options to explore. This year is the year of exploring our own countries due to the Coronavirus. With 50 states to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start exploring the United States. These are what I think are the 10 best states to visit in the United States , but I think all states are worth visiting at some point. This list gives you a good idea of which states to visit first and states I continue to visit again and again. 

I have lived in Southern California my entire life, but that does not mean I have not explored what the United States has to offer. A goal my parents had for me as I was growing up was to take me to all 50 states before I graduated high school. Although I did not make it to all 50 by the time I graduated, I finished visiting all 50 shortly thereafter. My parents believed it was important to explore my own country as well as the rest of the world. I am thankful for this as I have seen so much of the United States due to their planning.

Table of Contents

The Best States to Visit in the United States

Alaska: the last frontier.

Capital City: Juneau

Major Airports: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport 

Signature Food: Salmon

Best Time to Visit: Summer

Alaska was not originally on my top ten list, but the more I thought about it, the more I remembered how amazing Alaska is. Not only is Alaska the largest state, it is the third least populated state. Winters in Alaska consistently reach below freezing temperatures, but summers offer gorgeous weather and peak travel time. 15% of Alaska’s population is Native Americans and their influences can be seen across the state. 

The highlight of any trip to Alaska is Denali National Park . In this park, you can see the highest mountain in the United States, Mount McKinley, view wildlife, and go on hikes. Alaska contains eight different National Parks and all are unique and worth a visit. Glacier Bay offers the chance to see glaciers up close along with fjords and picturesque mountains. 

Alaska offers a ton of things for people looking for an adventure or an adrenaline rush. Flightseeing is a super popular activity in Alaska. Some flights head up into the Arctic Circle and other helicopter rides land on glaciers where you can then hike around. White Water Rafting is available in many areas (just beware of the freezing water). Icy Strait Point offers the chance to embark one of the world’s longest ziplines or opt to zipline through the rainforest in several other towns. A sled dog ride is a good way to get an Alaskan experience and sled dog camps across the state. 

Other fun things to do in Alaska include visiting the site of the Klondike Gold Rush, fishing for salmon, or taking a scenic train ride. If visiting during the wintertime, make sure to head up to the North Pole, known for its year-round Christmas decorations. Alaska is full of adventure, thus making it one of the best states to visit in the United States.

Arizona: For People Who Love the Desert

Capital City: Phoenix

Major Airports: Phoenix International Airport 

Signature Food: 

Best Time to Visit: Fall-Spring

Some people may skip over Arizona due to over half of the state being covered by desert. However, there are actually a ton of magical sites in Arizona . The majority of the state is usually pretty hot and although I prefer the cold, I still love escaping to Arizona during the winter months. Phoenix hosts the MLB-West Spring Training, which any baseball lover should attend. Phoenix is also a superb hiking destination. Near Phoenix lies the red-rock region of Sedona and the resort area of Scottsdale. Scottsdale has several wine tasting rooms, but to get a full experience, wine lovers should opt to head to the Cottonwood area. 

From Phoenix, head south to Tucson to see the infamous Saguaro cacti and find some more amazing hikes. From there you can head east to the wine tasting region of Willcox . The other option is to head to Northern Arizona via Flagstaff. The northern part of Arizona contains the spectacular Grand Canyon and the small town of Page . Page is famous for the Instagrammable Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. If you get the chance, make sure to stop in Monument Valley, home to the Navajo, and a popular filming location. The beauty of Arizona will make you want to visit again and again

California: The State That Has It All

Capital City: Sacramento

Major Airports: Los Angeles International Airport and San Francisco International Airport

Signature Food to Try: Mexican Food

Best Time to Visit: Anytime

Cities and Beaches

Being born and raised in California has given me the opportunity to see a ton of the state. California has so much to offer, especially on a road trip . From National Parks to wine country, city escapes, and beaches, California has it all. If you really wanted to, you could spend the morning at the beach, go hiking in the mountains, and end up in the desert all in one day! California has it all, thus making it one of the best states in the United States.

San Diego is a great starting point in California with its impressive downtown and gorgeous beaches. Spend time wandering around Balboa Park or stop in a museum. Old Town San Diego gives a glimpse into California’s past. Although not my favorite city in the world, Los Angeles has enough to keep you busy for days. Visit the iconic Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney Boulevard or search for movie stars in Hollywood . Eat at some of the best restaurants in Downtown LA or head out on a food tour . Los Angeles actually has a ton of cheap things to do . Perhaps check out a studio tour or visit a theme park such as Universal Studios or Disneyland. 

Wine Country and the Outdoors

Head up the coast along Route 1 for an ever-popular California Coast road trip. Along the way, make sure to stop in Paso Robles , an underrated wine country in California. Also nearby are the wine regions of Santa Maria and Santa Ynez . San Francisco with its steep rolling hills filled with fog is known for the Golden Gate Bridge, delicious food, and cable cars. A fantastic weekend trip, visitors will leave their hearts in San Francisco. Nearby is the popular wine region of Napa Valley and Sonoma .  

Prefer the outdoors to cities? Make sure to check out the California National Parks! Although Yosemite , Joshua Tree , and Death Valley may be the most popular, do not miss out on Muir Woods, Sequoia , or Kings Canyon National Park. You could also head up to Northern California to check out Lassen National Park . If looking for a relaxing getaway, head no further than Palm Springs or Palm Desert. No matter what, everyone will find something they love in California.

Florida: For Theme Park and Beach Lovers

Capital City: Tallahassee

Major Airports: Miami International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Fort Lauderdale International Airport, Jacksonville International Airport and Tampa International Airport

Signature Food: Cuban Food

Best Time to Visit: Winter or Spring

Florida is a state known for its gorgeous beaches and a plethora of theme parks. Orlando contains ten major theme parks within the city and several water parks. Disney lovers will want to head to Disney World with four theme parks, two water parks, and tons of resorts. You could easily spend a week exploring the complex. Universal Studios Resort is a haven for Harry Potter lovers with two parks, both with areas dedicated to the Wizarding World. Other parks include Legoland, Busch Gardens, and Discovery Cove. 

Florida contains 825 miles of coastline, which means tons of amazing beaches and great options for water sports. Miami Beach and Daytona Beach are always popular stops. I personally prefer the Gulf Coast beaches such as St. Pete Beach and St. Augustine. For a unique beach experience, head down to Key West, Florida’s southernmost point. Check out the southernmost point of the Continental United States, a concrete buoy in Key West. 

Aside from beaches and theme parks, Florida offers many other wonderful things to do. The MLB-East holds its Spring Training in Florida. View shuttle launches from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral or search for crocodiles in Everglades National Park. You can also see some of the Spanish influence splashed around Florida through various fortresses and architecture. Florida also contains a ton of springs throughout Central Florida. No matter what, Florida makes for a perfect vacation!

Massachusetts: For the History Lovers

Capital City: Boston

Major Airports: Boston International Airport

Signature Food: Lobster

Best Time to Visit: Fall

Although not a very large state, Massachusetts packs a historical punch and makes it one of the best states in the United States. Its capital city of Boston contains important sites from the American Revolution. The Freedom Trail connects 16 iconic sites from the colonial period. Boston also contains the previous homes of President John Adams, John Quincy Adams, and John F. Kennedy! Make sure to grab some delicious Italian food in little Italy. Do not forget to tour Harvard and check out Cambridge. 

Right outside of Boston is the location of the start of the American Revolution at Minute Man National Historic Park. Just south of Boston is Plymouth Rock, the site of the landing of the Mayflower and site of the Plymouth Colony. 

For lobster and beaches, head out to Cape Cod. This peninsula is a popular summertime destination in Massachusetts and is full of quaint villages, lighthouses, and gorgeous landscapes. A day trip to Nantucket Island or Martha’s Vineyard are great seasonal escapes and contain many resorts. If looking for a fabulous lobster dinner, Cape Cod is the place to find it!

New Mexico: For Its Scenic Beauty

Capital City: Santa Fe

Major Airports: Albuquerque International Airport

Signature Food: Hatch Chilies

Best Time to Visit: Fall and Spring

Although you would not think there is much to do in New Mexico , there are a ton of hidden gems in this state. Albuquerque , its most well-known city, is mostly known for its annual Balloon Fiesta. Spend at least two days in Albuqueruqe . Outside of that, you can find awesome food, petroglyphs, scenic hikes, and amazing wineries. Head to the capital, Sante Fe, for pueblo-style architecture, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and New Mexican history.  Roswell is also a fun kitschy town to explore.

New Mexico contains 19 different pueblo towns that each have their own government. Acoma and Taos are two of the most popular pueblos to visit. Acoma is located on a high plateau and is sometimes called “sky city.” Taos Pueblo is a designated UNESCO site and one of the oldest inhabited communities in the United States. 

White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns National Parks are two unique sites to see as well. White Sands contains tons of white sand dunes made of crystals. Meanwhile, Carlsbad Caverns offers self-guided cave tours and huge limestone chambers. New Mexico also contains 11 National Monuments to explore as well. No matter where you go in New Mexico, you will get a glimpse into its scenic beauty. 

New York: The Ultimate City Vacation

Capital City: Albany

Major Airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport, 

Signature Food: New York pizza and bagel

Best Time to Visit: Anytime 

New York contains one of my favorite cities in the world: New York City. Although I may have a slight bias since my dad was born and raised there, it seriously has a ton of amazing things to offer for everyone. I love spending a weekend in NYC whenever I can and hitting up some of the budget sites it has to offer. Brooklyn is also a fun borough to explore with many unique eateries. I continually return to NYC at least once a year and experience new things each time. 

Outside of NYC, New York contains a popular wine region, the Finger Lakes. This area contains over 100 wineries as well as many breweries and distilleries. Around the region is a plethora of state parks with tons of hiking trails. Wine lovers should also check out the Hudson River Valley. 

There are also a ton of historical sites scattered across New York, even outside of NYC. Within the city make sure to visit Federal Hall, the site of the first United States capital, and Hamilton’s gravesite. Seneca Falls contains the site of the Women’s Rights Convention and the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Near Poughkeepsie, lies the home of Franklin D. Roosevelt along with his presidential library and a historic site dedicated to Eleanor Roosevelt. In Oyster Bay, you can visit Theodore Roosevelt’s former residence. 

For those wanting a beach escape, the Hamptons and Long Island are popular beach getaways. The Adirondack Mountains offer the perfect mountainous escape. Head to Lake George or one of the 7,600 lakes across the state. New York has tons of diverse options for fun, therefore, making it one of the best states in the United States!

Oregon: For the Outdoorsy Peeps

Capital City: Salem

Major Airports: Portland International Airport

Signature Cuisine: Eat at a Food Truck

Best Time to Visit: Summer or Fall

Oregon has so many outdoor activities, so it is the perfect place to visit for people who love hiking and outdoor adventures. The weather is gorgeous in the summertime and a welcome escape from the heat across the rest of the country. Portland is a great place for people who want a mix of delicious food and the outdoors. There are a ton of gardens across the city and it is only a short distance to many day hiking areas such as Multnomah Falls. From Portland , it is also easy to get to the Willamette Valley wine tasting region. Head to Salem to visit the capitol building and eat some more delicious food or to Crater Lake for a National Park getaway. 

You can also opt to take a road trip down the Oregon Coast for breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, and visit isolated beaches. Beer lovers should head to Bend, Oregon, which has 22 breweries, the highest per-capita in the nation. From Portland, you can also take a lot of day and weekend trips . No matter what, Oregon is a fantastic choice, and one of the best states in the United States.

Tennessee: For Families and Country Lovers

Capital City: Nashville

Major Airports: Memphis International Airport and Nashville International Airport

Signature Food: BBQ ribs

Best Time to Visit: Early Summer and Fall

There is no end to the fun that can be found in Tennessee. Although I have not been in a few years, I have explored this state a couple of times and have had a ton of fun. Nashville may be Tennessee’s most well-known city. A visit is not complete without attending a performance at the Grand Ole Opry and visiting the Jack Daniel’s Distillery . Memphis, famous for being the home of Elvis Presley is another worthy stop. Visit his estate of Graceland to learn more about his life. Later, grab some barbecue on Beale Street and listen to some tunes while you eat (and drink). 

Pigeon Forge, the perfect family escape, lies in the mountains and is home to Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s theme park. This area is the perfect mountain resort town for an escape from the cities and also popular for musical reviews. Chattanooga, known for its history in the Civil War and for its connection to trains makes for another great weekend destination. The highlight of the visit will be taking the train up Lookout Mountain for the sweeping views of the area. Tennessee offers many unique destinations and attractions that will make for an enjoyable trip!

Texas: For Foodies and Music Lovers

Capital City: Austin

Major Airports: Dallas International Airport, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Houston International Airport

Signature Food: BBQ

Best Time to Visit: Fall or Spring

Texas has some seriously awesome and unique things to do : Wine, BBQ, live music, rodeos, the fun is endless. Being that it is the second-largest state in the United States (and larger than any European country) it offers endless areas to explore and is one of the best states in the United States. 

The capital city of Austin has become more popular in recent years due to the Austin City Limits music festival. Outside of that, Austin offers tons of outdoor recreation areas such as Barton Springs and checking out the bats along Congress Bridge. It is also home to the Lyndon B. Johnson Library and tons of murals scattered across the city. From Austin, it is an easy journey into the Texas Hill Country, the largest wine region in the state. 

Head to San Antonio for a closer look into Texas history with a visit to the Alamo. Later, walk along the Riverwalk to enjoy great food, drinks, and music. Meanwhile, Dallas offers a look into the life of John F. Kennedy and many visit to attend a game at the AT&T Stadium. Space lovers should visit Houston in order to visit the Space Center and learn about space travel. 

Texas also offers many fun smaller towns to explore. Waco has become popular due to Fixer Upper, a home improvement show. Madia, Texas boasts a Prada Themed art exhibit that has made this small town more popular. Other small towns such as Dublin, offer adorable Texas charm and make the perfect weekend getaways.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park . There are also a ton of awesome state parks hidden throughout the state. No matter where you choose to visit, you are in for an adventure in Texas!

Runner Ups for the Best States in the United States

It was hard to pick just ten states, so I included a few runner ups that I also enjoy and have tons of unique things to offer. 

Hawaii: For Beach Lovers

Capital City: Honolulu

Major Airports: Hilo International Airport, Honolulu International Airport, and Kona International Airport 

Signature Food: Pineapple, Poke, and Shaved Ice

Hawaii, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, actually contains 137 islands and 750 miles of coastline which make for some scenic drives . However, the four main islands, Hawaii (the Big Island), Oahu , Maui, and Kaui are the most well-known and popular to visit. Although Hawaii is definitely overpriced, if you can find a good deal, it is worth a visit. 

Oahu is the most commercialized of the four islands. Despite this, there is a diverse range of activities to do , especially once you get out of the Honolulu area. Popular sites include hiking Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, the Dole Plantation, North Shore, and Pearl Harbor. 

The Big Island contains more natural sites such as volcanoes. black sand beaches, tons of waterfall hikes, and some great places to snorkel . For a glimpse of active volcanoes, make sure to visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and head to Hilo for lots of free outdoor activities.  

Maui is known for the Road to Hana, pristine beaches, and state parks. Kauai also offers tons of gorgeous beaches, state parks, and a surprising number of food trucks. You will not be sorry with any of the hikes you do. From natural scenery to a warm tropical climate, Hawaii should be on everyone’s list of states to visit.

Utah: For National Park Lovers

Capital City: Salt Lake City

Major Airport: Salt Lake City International Airport

Best Time to Visit: Spring or Summer

Utah is known for its mighty 5 National Parks: Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , Arches , and Canyonlands . It is very easy to plan a Utah road trip to hit all of the parks. These parks offer a ton of diverse hikes. Most popular include the Narrows and Angels Landing in Zion. The Landscape Arch and Devil’s Garden in Arches are also worthwhile. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are also good stops. 

Besides National Parks, Utah also offers some other unique outdoor activities. The Bonneville Salt Flats are Instagram-worthy as are the Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Utah also contains some awesome state parks such as Goblin Valley and Dead Horse Point. Make sure not to miss Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah. Visitors can enjoy watching the Morman Tabernacle Choir practice or tour the state capital building. No matter what adventure you choose, Utah is a perfect state for National Park Lovers.

Other Popular US States

Visiting other states in the United States? Make sure to check out these guides to help plan your trip! Every state has a ton to offer and there are unique things to see in every single state! The United States also has a ton of amazing wine regions , even outside of California.

Georgia: Atlanta

Idaho: Boise

Illinois: Chicago , Springfield

Indiana: Indiana Dunes NP

Kentucky: Louisville, Mammoth Cave NP

Missouri: St. Louis , Gateway Arch NP

Oklahoma: Oklahoma City

South Dakota : Badlands NP , Wind Cave NP

Pennsylvania: Philadelphia

Virginia : Leesburg , Mount Vernon , Richmond , Shenandoah

Washington : Bainbridge Island , Olympic NP , Seattle , Vancouver

Washington, DC

Wyoming: Cheyenne

Although it was hard to choose only 10 states for the best states in the United States, these states stand out in my memories of visiting them. No matter what, the United States has a ton to offer and explore. Check out these travel planning tips to start planning your US Vacation. What are your favorite US States to visit?

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This is such a great article Francesca! I have to agree that California, Arizona and Oregon have to be on my top 10 USA list. I really need to get to Alaska. It looks so awesome!

Thank you! Alaska is so awesome and a unique state for sure. Hope you can visit soon.

As a fellow Oregonian, I’m happy Oregon has made it to your list! Alaska has been at the top of my bucket list for so long. I must make it out there soon!

Yay! I seriously love Oregon. There are some really cool things to see there.

I got to keep up! Only saw 4 states from your list. Alaska and Hawaii are probably on top of my list right now. Thank you for sharing!

I hope you can visit more soon!

GREAT blog! I have been to all 50 US states now (!!) and I can honestly say my list might not be very different than yours. You highlight a lot of our country’s best places so beautifully.

Thank you! That is so exciting that you have been to all 50 too! It is seriously such an accomplishment.

This post came at the perfect time!! We are looking to explore more of our local options and now we have a great list to look through and choose from thanks to you 🙂

I figured a lot of people are looking to stay within the country these days.

What a great list!! I’ve been to a few of these, but I definitely need to explore more within the US! Alaska is definitely at the top of my list, followed by Hawaii! Great to see them included here!!

Alaska is so amazing!

I always love reading your posts! You make great points about why these 10 states are perfect for different things/people. My friend lives in Alaska and she raves about it often – she’s definitely helped it skyrocket on my travel goals!

Thank you! Alaska is seriously so gorgeous. I couldn’t live there, but I love visiting!

Great list that includes all my favourite places in the USA. Between my husband and I and our parents, we have lived in more than half of the states on your list. Alsaska and Oregon are both my favourites.

That is so awesome! The US has some really awesome states, that is for sure!

This was so interesting to read! I was in California last year and lovedmy time there. It really has something for everyone I feel 🙂 Would love to visit more states!

I agree about California. There is so much fun stuff there!

Saving this for my USA bucket list road trip xxx

You’re going to need a lot of time! Lol

I learned so much from this. Would love to visit Massachusetts and Oregon one day

Both of those are amazing states and highly underrated in my opinion.

California really does have it all. I’m excited to explore a bit more of it this summer. Utah is next on my list, the national parks look breathtaking.

It seriously does. There is SO much to do there.

I’m from Austin, and I have to say it’s an amazing city!! So many fun things to do in Texas. Great article 🙂

I want to go so bad! I had to cancel my trip there so hopefully I can go soon.

I love that Alaska was number 1! That just might be my favorite state! This is such a great list and I have to agree with most of it.

Alaska is such an awesome state!

The USA is so cool!! There truly are some amazing states and they are all unique in their own way. Been to all of these except three.

The USA has so much cool stuff to see. A lot of people underestimate their own country!

Definitely Utah! I love the rural side of it and how it looks, it’s so pretty.

Right!? There is so much cool stuff in Utah.

We’ve hit all of these except for Alaska…saving that one for last, when we’re just about done with the 50 states! Otherwise, I’d have to agree, especially California!

Ahhh that’s awesome! I liked North Dakota being last because they made a big deal out of it!

I love all of these facts about the different states – great read!

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Hi! I’m Francesca, a native Californian and history teacher who loves to travel. I’ve been to 66 countries across 7 continents and all 50 United States.

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20 States In The U.S. Actually Worth Visiting

As one of the largest countries in the entire world, the U.S. can boast of a geographical diversity that few other nations can match.

If you read enough articles on The Travel, you will see and hear about some of the coolest and most exotic tourist destinations in the entire world. Some of the best tourist destinations, however, are right in our own backyards. Whether you live in Canada or in the United States itself, it should be fairly easy to visit any of the fifty States in the U.S. As such, this list will countdown the 20 States in the U.S. Actually Worth Visiting.

As one of the largest countries in the entire world, the U.S. can boast of a geographical diversity that few other nations can match. To represent this diversity, this list will include entries from all four corners of the continental U.S., as well as Alaska and Hawaii. Not only are these States sometimes thousands of miles away from one another, they each represent distinct beliefs and cultures for a truly heterogeneous travel experience. The only requirement for a State to make this list is that it has achieved statehood in the U.S., and has something within its boundaries that could attract tourists. If you can think of any other State that you would like to visit that did not make our list, feel free to mention them in the comments.

20 California

Every couple of years politicians in California put a question on the ballot asking if the State should secede from the United States. This measure is always defeated, but it illustrates the fact that people from California think of themselves as Californians first, and U.S. citizens second. There are lots of interesting tourist destinations in California, so at least they will have places to go should they ever decide to actually leave the union. LA is the obvious vacation spot in California, but San Diego and San Francisco also get hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The Hollywood sign, the San Diego Zoo, and the University of Southern California are just a few of the popular destinations in the State.

I've got two words for you... Disney World. The famous theme park and resort was built in Orlando in 1971 and since then, it has been one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S. and

is the top reason to travel to the state of Florida. But it isn't the only reason.

Miami has recently become famous for its nightlife, and Orlando and Tampa are both major cities worth visiting. Then, of course, there are the beaches that dot the shoreline of the Florida archipelago. Florida has come a long way from the swamplands that the earliest settlers found, but if you feel the need to return to that world, there are several projects to reinvigorate the Florida everglades.

18 New York

The state of New York truly only has two sides, New York City and the rest of New York, commonly referred to as upstate New York. If you have ever seen a movie about New York, there is a 99.9% chance that it took place in New York City. The most populous city on earth, NYC should be visited by every single person in their lifetime.

The constant hustle and bustle and unique culture are unlike anything else in the world.

If you're looking to travel outside of New York City, your destinations are more limited. The major city in western New York is Buffalo, and from someone who grew up near the city, I can personally attest that there isn't much to visit while you're there. If you're looking to enjoy New York outside of NYC, I would recommend visiting Ithaca or Syracuse.

17 Washington

Of all the entries on this list, this is the one that I would most like to visit myself. There is just something about the state of Washington that stirs up images of settlers establishing themselves on the rugged frontier. The woodlands of Washington are supposed to be notoriously beautiful, and some people have compared areas of the Pugent Sound to the Garden of Eden itself. Washington isn't totally uncultivated; however, the city of Seattle has become one of the most thriving metropolises on the West Coast. Boasting the headquarters of national brands like Amazon and Starbucks, Seattle has become something of a Mecca for young adults. Overcrowding has brought some problems to the city, but tourists shouldn't have any problems finding an affordable hotel.

Texas is the biggest state in the United States, so obviously there are some things there that are worth visiting. As a whole, the state has a very unique culture dating back to its history as part of Mexico and as its own unique country. The state has traditionally been very conservative, but recently large cities like Austin have been making the Lone Star state more liberal.

Austin itself is consistently cited as one of the best tourist cities in the U.S.

If you are looking to find more of an authentic cowboy experience, the southern part of the state should be visited. Several important figures are from Texas, most notably former Presidents George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush.

15 Illinois

I am sure that there are other locations in Illinois that are worth visiting, but for the purposes of this list I am only going to talk about one. Besides Los Angeles and New York City, Chicago is the premier city in the United States.

Home to five major professional sports teams and some of the most impressive venues in the United States,

there is plenty to do in this Illinois city. There was a time when the city completely wasted the tourist attraction of Lake Michigan, but recent rejuvenation efforts have made the lake a major component of their tourist pitch. Former President Barack Obama and rapper Kanye West are just two of several people who have called Chicago, and Illinois their home.

14 Maryland/Washington D.C.

I understand that Washington D.C. isn't technically part of the state of Maryland, but the two are close enough that any visit to the Free State can easily include the nation's capital. D.C. still gets a bad rap for how degraded the city had become in the 1980's, but D.C. is much safer now and more easily accessible. The obvious tourist destinations are the White House and Smithsonian Museums, but the neighborhood of Georgetown outside the city has one of the best atmospheres of anywhere in the country. The actual state of Maryland has a few places of its own that are worth visiting. Specifically, the Chesapeake Bay area is very beautiful, and is one of the most important animal habitats in the entire world. Ocean City can get crowded but is definitely worth visiting in the slower months.

13 South Carolina

I may have a slight anti-southern bias, but I wanted to make sure that I included at least a couple of States to represent the unique culture below the Mason-Dixon line. There are States like Alabama and Mississippi that might better represent what being "southern" is all about, but South Carolina is the state with its roots most firmly rooted in southern culture. South Carolina has been the epicenter of southern politics pretty much since its inception. The state was an important theater in the American Revolution, and in the Civil War it was the first state to secede from the Union.

Nowadays, South Carolina attracts tourists with its giant plantations and scenic beaches.

Myrtle Beach is a hugely popular destination for college kids, but the entire shoreline is worth visiting.

12 Pennsylvania

I understand that Pennsylvania may not be a typical tourist destination but hear me out for a second. For starters, the state has a history so rich that it can only be compared to a few other States in the country (Massachusetts, Virginia, etc.). In addition, Pennsylvania has a weird dichotomy where each of the State's major cities are incredibly different from one another. The largest city in PA, Philadelphia, is your standard eastern seaboard city. In contrast, Pittsburgh has adopted a blue-collar attitude from its industrial past that combines uniquely with its young population. Finally, Erie is a small city that resides on the coast of one of the Great Lakes. You would be hard pressed to find this kind of variety in any other State in the Union.

I once read a book where the characters were forced to flee from a zombie apocalypse by going to an unincorporated township in rural Maine. The zombie breakout was caused by telephone lines and this was one of the few places that they could go to avoid getting infected. This story illustrates how secluded sections of Maine are. There are islands and sections of forest that aren't visited by more than 50 people a year.

The lack of people in these areas makes it possible for pristine wilderness to reign.

Tourism is one of the primary industries in Maine, and the state has tailored a lot of its outdoor activities to incoming visitors. I highly recommend that our readers take a hike in the Bar Harbor area.

There is of course one major city worth visiting in the state of Nevada, but we will get to that later in this entry. Nevada also has miles of deserts and canyons that make up some of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire United States. It is possible to rent dune buggies or four-wheelers in some of these remote locations, a popular attraction for many tourists.

Once you're done enjoying the great wilderness of Nevada, you might want to check out the State's greatest attraction, Las Vegas.

Building off of its reputation as "Sin City", Vegas has become one of the greatest entertainment hubs in the United States. Aside from the casinos and bars, Vegas has hundreds of venues that bring in some of the best acts in the world. Vegas recently capitalized on its popularity and brought in both an NHL (Knights) and NFL (Raiders) franchise.

9 Louisiana

Most of our readers are probably aware of the fact that Louisiana is culturally distinct from the rest of the United States. What they likely don't know is that these differences can be traced back hundreds of years to when New Orleans was part of the French empire in North America. Louisiana was not one of the original 13 colonies that fought for their independence from England. It didn't become part of the newly formed United States until some years later. This unique history makes Louisiana, and New Orleans in particular, a must-visit tourist destination. The French Quarter is beautiful, and everyone should visit Bourbon Street at least once in their lifetime. Just a word of warning, because the city is below sea level, it can smell pretty bad on warmer days.

When most tourists think of the United States they think of huge coastal cities like New York and LA. In my opinion, however,

one of the most striking destinations in the continental U.S. is the Great Lakes region.

The State that best encompasses this region is Michigan. Most people travel to the Wolverine State to enjoy the lakes themselves, but there are also several cities there worth visiting. The capital, Lansing, is a popular tourist destination, and Ann Arbor (home to the University of Michigan) is consistently listed as one of the best college towns. If you're looking for a more authentic experience of what life is really like in the rust belt, Detroit is the largest and most well-known city in the state. Just don't drink the water.

Alaska calls itself "the final frontier", a fitting name for a state that is separated from the continental United States by thousands of miles of Canadian wilderness. Before I began writing this list, I wanted to read some depictions from local Alaskans about what the State is like. Surely, it's nothing like the Alaskan myth that I had in my own mind from countless movies and TV shows. After doing some research I found that the real Alaska is very much like the one shown in movies. Anchorage is the standard city destination, but pretty much anywhere in the state is a wild and unique experience. The only issue with visiting Alaska is that it can get expensive. Most of their food is shipped to them from outside the State, and a limited infrastructure can make travel difficult.

This is probably the most obvious entry on this entire list. The Hawaiian Islands are not only one of the most iconic destinations in the United States, they are one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in the entire world. I have never been to Hawaii, but I have seen pictures of the beaches where you can see the bottom of the ocean floor because the water is so clear.

The interiors of the island also boast jungle habitats that would be worth visiting, and some of the islands have active volcanoes that you can tour.

As Hawaiian natives run out of land, it will be up to their government to ensure that the islands remain a vibrant tourist destination. It would be a shame to squander the natural advantages that this State has.

5 Minnesota

Throughout this list I tried to find the states that I felt represented unique cultures or sections within the country. Minnesota is a perfect example of this, as it might be the most unique State in the entire nation. I once lived with two people from Minnesota and we came to call the State exactly what it is, "South Canada."

The culture (and atmosphere) in Minnesota is distinctly Canadian. This development can be traced to the strange events that led to the State's formation in the northern Great Lakes region. Whatever the case, we are happy to have Minnesota as part of the United States. In particular, the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are very nice and are consistently ranked as the politest cities in the United States.

4 Massachusetts

I recently moved to Massachusetts and the first thing I noticed when I was driving around was how nice this State is. Coming from Pennsylvania where all the roads are in disrepair, I can attest that there is something to having an area be aesthetically pleasing. For people who are just visiting, there should be plenty of tourist attractions to keep you entertained.

The whole state is rife with historical sites and Boston is one of the most tourist friendly cities in the entire country.

The beaches along the coast aren't great, but during the summer months the entire Cape Cod area is full of activity. For such a small state, Massachusetts has a lot of different attractions that tourists will appreciate.

Colorado was the first State to legalize marijuana for recreational use. This led to a huge surge in tourism. A chance to quickly and easily buy some pot, however, isn't the only reason that people are clamoring to go to Colorado. Not only are flights into Denver incredibly cheap (depending on where you're coming from, of course), Denver and the nearby city of Boulder are some of the funnest cities west of the Mississippi River. Unfortunately, legalization has attracted so many tourists that finding a place to stay in the city can get expensive. Luckily, there are also several places outside of Denver that are worth visiting. I don't ski, but I have heard that the Rocky Mountain slopes in Colorado are the best in the country.

When people think of popular tourist States in the United States, Utah probably wouldn't be at the top of very many lists. If a State is good enough to host the Olympics, however, then it is worthy of a visit by our readers. The 2001 Olympic Games took place in Salt Lake City, Utah's capital and largest city. The city gets its name from a geological oddity, a large saltwater lake in the middle of landlocked Utah. Most people only think about Mormons when Utah comes to mind, but

the State has enough outdoor adventure opportunities and beautiful scenery to keep any traveler entertained.

Perhaps more importantly, the state has made a concerted effort to attract tourists, making the state one of the friendliest for incoming visitors.

1 Rhode Island

If you were looking at a map of the United States you probably wouldn't even notice Rhode Island, the smallest State in the Union. Despite its small area, or perhaps because of it, Rhode Island has one of the richest histories of any State, and is a must visit for anyone traveling to New England. As one of the first colonies in the new world,

Rhode Island has a ton of attractions for history buffs.

If history isn't really your thing, coastal cities like Newport have a variety of attractions that should appeal to just about everyone. Providence, of course is the state's capital and largest city, it is also worth checking out if you're in Rhode Island.

24 Best Places to Visit in the United States

Written by Lana Law Updated May 3, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

1. New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Best Museums in Seattle
• 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

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 .

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

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

More on New York

12 Best US States To Visit With Kids

• Published on April 19, 2023
• by The Mom Trotter
• in North America , Travel , Travel Destinations

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Table of Contents

Going on family vacations is a fantastic opportunity to escape from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. It’s important that you explore the museums, national parks, historic sites, and fun places with your kids.

A lot of families think they have to travel out of the US but that is not the case. There is so much to do and see right here in the U.S. Below, I share 12 of the best U.S. states to visit with kids.

12 Best US States to Visit With Kids

1. california.

California is a stunning place to go for kids of all ages and adults. It has a range of fun activities for the whole family ranging from snow-capped mountain ranges to amusement parks and beaches.

There are so many experiences in California that you will not be able to experience all of them in one trip. This makes it the best place for kids to build memories as they learn while they explore these states.

Rent a car and drive from coast to coast to see as much as possible.

Top Things To Do In California With Kids

• Yosemite National Park : This is a stunning place where your kids will get to opportunity to camp, swim, fish, hike, and take pictures
• Disneyland : a fun place filled with classic Disney rides, fireworks show, trying out top carnival-style food, collecting autographs, and, so on.
• Crystal Cove State Park: fun outdoor activities waiting for you here from building sandcastles, going boogie-boarding, walking or mountain biking through the inland trails, and many more.
• Legoland California : this attraction is filled with numerous hands-on activities, an aquarium, and a water park.
• San Diego Zoo: The San Diego Zoo is the world’s largest zoo and is famous for its beautiful natural exhibits.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In California

• Great Wolf Lodge : this hotel has an indoor water park as well as several activities to keep your kids busy during your stay.
• Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa: perfect hotel with rolling lawn and radiant gardens with bicycle and jogging trails. The hotel has many child-friendly activities which your kids will love.
• Marriott’s Shadow Ridge II-The Enclaves: magnificent hotel with numerous dining options on-site with many fun things for kids. Stuff like whirlpool spas, waterslides, children’s pools, tennis courts, and game rooms are included.
• L’Auberge Del Mar : it has a private path to the beach with poolside cabanas and a spa to just relax. Your kids will also enjoy the horse race and playing golf by the sea.
• Omni Las Palmas Resort & Spa : family-friendly hotel with water park and lazy river.

2. New York

New York is a state with fun activities for all families from the stunning Hampton beaches to the serene lakes, Niagara Falls, and the culture and arts.

The state also has delicious food items for kids. They can enjoy foods from ramen burgers to ice cream and wine at numerous family-friendly vineyards. Not forgetting Time Square, New York’s most popular attraction.

Top Things To Do In New York With Kids

• Staten Island Ferry: you are going to get magnificent views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor from this ferry ride which will linger on in your kids’ memory.
• The Empire State Building: best place to get mesmerizing city views from the 86th floor
• Brooklyn Children’s Museum: this museum homes up to 30,000 collections ranging from minerals to skeletons of Asian elephants to masks and dolls with many other children’s activities that your kids will love to participate in.
• Bronx Zoo: this attraction has lots of animals that they can see with kids’ activities like bug carousels, camel rides, and many more.
• Max Brenner Chocolate Bar and Restaurant: this is a chance to treat your kids to mouthwatering foods that they will love.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In New York

• Lowell Hotel : the hotel is close to many attractions like Central Park, museum mile, and so on with babysitting services for toddlers.
• Sofitel New York : the hotel features a separate bedroom and it is close to Manhattan subway lines.
• Le Parker Meridien : this hotel features an enclosed rooftop pool where you will get magnificent views and kid-friendly restaurants.
• Langham Place Fifth Avenue: this is the most luxurious kid-friendly suite in the city in a great location and close to Times Square.
• Doubletree Guest Suites Times Square: The hotel is equipped with a microwave and mini-fridge with a kid’s menu for room service.

3. Colorado

This is a perfect place to spend your summer with kids as it has lots of kid-friendly activities from great camping spots to out-of-this-world theme parks and many indoor attractions that your kids will enjoy.

Some of the top things to do in Colorado with kids are listed below.

Top Things To Do In Colorado With Kids

• Visit Mountainsides Zoo: your kids will get to see wildlife and also get to feed the giraffe while enjoying magnificent views of the area.
• Ski at Winter Park : Winter Park is a very kid-friendly ski resort with plenty of activities your family will enjoy.
• Hot air Ballooning: Your children need to be up to five years and above to participate but this a stunning adventure with 360-degree views of the stunning Colorado Rockies.
• Go sightseeing at Broadmoor Seven Falls: These are stunning falls that are easily accessible by a short walk and elevator ride. You can also explore the additional trails and zip-lining adventures while you are here.
• Acacia Park: This is home to the famous Uncle Wilbur’s Fountain with a play area that your kids will really love. You can also have a picnic here.
• Denver : From the children’s museums to good food, there is no shortage of things to do in Denver.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Colorado

• Best Western Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites : this hotel boasts of a Jacuzzi and an indoor pool. They also provide a continental breakfast every morning, there are also many restaurants close by.
• Tivoli Lodge : this is a luxury ski resort popular for its stunning location with magnificent mountain views and Vail’s Golden Peak ski area.
• Woolley’s Classic Suites – Denver Airport : this is a magnificent hotel with many amenities to make your stay comfortable from breakfast in the morning to wines and cocktails in the evening to an indoor pool, pets are allowed, a heated pool, and so on.
• The Broadmoor : this hotel features a Jacuzzi, golf course, outdoor pool, sauna, connecting rooms for the family, and so on.
• The Crawford Hotel : this hotel offers a guest unique experience with modern luxury, the hotel also provides a shuttle bus service and they also allow a pet.

Texas is a great place where kids will get room to unleash their creativity, imagination, and energy. The state has lots of attractions from man-made theme parks to natural historical parks which they will enjoy.

The state is filled with lots of kids’ friendly activities and you will not be able to do all of them in one vacation. Some of the top things to do in Texas with kids are listed below.

Top Things To Do In Texas With Kids

• Natural Bridge Caverns: This is a great spot to have thrilling adventures while learning about nature and geology.
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas: a stunning theme park with roller coasters, and a waterpark that will make you scream your lung out.
• Silver Spur Guest Ranch: This is the best place to experience the Western way of slow living. While riding the horses, meals, and spending quality time with your kids on the range.
• Lake Travis: Your kids can have fun at the onsite water park which is filled with rides and activities that the whole family will love.
• National Butterfly Center: You and your family will get to see hundreds of wild butterflies. Admire the numerous shapes and colors that the different species of butterfly has.

Best Things To Do With Kids In Texas

• JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa: You and your kids will love this hotel which features waterparks and many other activities in which the whole family can participate.
• Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa: This hotel has a golf course with a kids’ program and a water park with restaurants with children’s menu options.
• The Woodlands Resort: this hotel features many fun games like golf courses, a tennis center, a swimming pool, and a water park. You can also enjoy poolside movies afterward.
• Hilton Anatole : this hotel features a water park and several restaurants so that you can just stay in and relax, and enjoy your stay.
• Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, Cedar Creek: The popular activities for your kids here are hiking and biking. Nature tours, a water park, and tennis courts.

Georgia, especially Atlanta is a great place for young kids with its rich history, lots of cultural activities, and many parks that you will love.

The state is filled with many outdoor type adventures from going biking on the Beltline to hiking up the magnificent Stone Mountain.

There are also many museums with lots of kid’s activities that you and your young ones will have a splendid time at.

Top Things To Do In Georgia With Kids

• Georgia Aquarium: you will see lots of aquatic animals here.
• Piedmont Park: lots of fun things to do here and it features playgrounds, swimming pools, picnic areas, and so on.
• Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta: this attraction features two different rides. Duplo Village, and a 4-D cinema for you and your kids.
• Centennial Olympic Park: you and your kids will get to enjoy live music at festivals throughout the year here with daily fountain shows and kids can play in the jets in the summer.
• Stone Mountain Park: This park offers the opportunity for kids to hike up Stone Mountain. There’s lots of fun and thrilling rides for your kids.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Georgia

• Hampton Inn Darien-I-95 : the hotel has a friendly staff that will treat your kids like kings and queens with many off-site restaurants with a kids menu.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District / Riverfront : you will get a mind-blowing river view from the hotel. And they have an onsite restaurant with a kid’s menu.
• The Marshall House: this is a stunning hotel with free breakfast available. The hotel also has an onsite restaurant with a kids’ menu and lots of family-friendly amenities.
• River Street Inn : hotel with magnificent river views and an onsite library where you will get access to lots of books. It is also close to many restaurants and many attractions that you can easily access.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Savannah Historic District : the hotel is close to many attractions and it has an outdoor pool that your kids will love. With many amenities provided like free breakfast and so on.

6. Louisiana

Although many people do associate Louisiana, especially New Orleans with a non-stop party atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, there are many magnificent things for you to see and do here too.

There are lots of kid-friendly activities here. From educational museums, stunning gardens, historic buildings, parks, and zoos that they will really love to experience.

Top Things To In Louisiana With Kids

• Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point: This is a free and fun attraction where your kids can spot wildlife. Try out Cajun/Creole cooking, get creative with hands-on imaginative display, and many more.
• Sam Houston Jones State Park: The best place for outdoor activities for your kids. And they will also get to see some wildlife like alligators and snakes.
• Audubon Zoo : A magnificent attraction where you will get to see an exotic mix of wildlife from around the globe in stunning natural habitats. And also the best place where the kids can learn about conservation.
• Mardi Gras Museum: you will get to see the amazing fantasy factory with many props.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Louisiana

• Hotel Monteleone: the hotel is close to many attractions with an easy check-in process and an outdoor pool. It has an onsite restaurant with a kid-friendly menu.
• Bourbon Orleans Hotel : It is located in a perfect location close to restaurants and nightlife options. The hotel provides amenities like a coffee maker, iPod docking station, onsite restaurant, etc.
• Cambria Hotel & Suites New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District : the hotel has a refreshing relaxed vibe with a spa, and free breakfast, concierge service, onsite restaurant, etc.
• The Jung Hotel & Residences: the hotel provides free breakfast, and other amenities. Like self-serve laundry, an on-site restaurant, a pool, and so on.

Alaska is a wild, unspoiled, mysterious that is going to bring out your imagination and your spirit of adventure. You can easily explore the stunning mountains, fjords, glaciers, and lodges that filled the state on your trip.

You will get to see grizzly bears, whales, wild animals, and many more. The city is also filled with many family-friendly attractions that you can visit from museums to cafes in Juneau, Denali, and so on.

Best Things To Do In Alaska With Kids 

• The Alaska Zoo: best place to see wildlife like bears, moose, and so on.
• The Reindeer Farm: this is a stunning attraction where your kids will get to see and have a hand on experience with reindeer, horses, rocky mountain elk, and bison.
• Ride The Tram: thrilling ride where you will get mesmerizing views.
• Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: the perfect opportunity to see diverse Alaskan wildlife up close.
• Eagle River nature center: the attraction is filled with numerous thrilling activities for you and your kids. Like hiking, overnight camping, nature studies, and so on.

Top Kid-Friendly Hotels In Alaska

• Bridgewater Hotel : This hotel has stunning river views with a free breakfast buffet. It has family amenities like cribs, a refrigerator, laundry service, and so on.
• Reluctant Fisherman Inn : you will get mesmerizing glacier views from here. It also has a private balcony that overlooks the water and many family amenities like on-site dining, kitchenettes, etc.
• Turnagain View Bed and Breakfast: it has spacious suites with cribs and a family room that can contain more than 5 people.
• Bristol Bay Lodge : the hotel has remote overnight camps, a hot tub with a sauna, free breakfast, a game room, etc.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Anchorage: the hotel has a Jacuzzi, indoor pool, laundry facilities, onsite dining option with a kid’s menu, and so on.

Hawaii is a great place where you will get to mix adventure with relaxation as you will get to see beautiful scenery, interact with some amazing animals. And also experience the cosmopolitan vibe with mind-blowing shopping opportunities in Waikiki.

Your kids no matter how old they are will surely find something that will pick their interest in Hawaii.

Top Things To Do With Kids In Hawaii

• Visit Honolulu Zoo: the perfect place for your kids to see different wildlife. And also get the opportunity to take Instagram-worthy pictures.
• Experience A Traditional Luau: This is the best opportunity to learn and experience the Luau culture. Your kids should not miss the opportunity to see this.
• Picnic At Hanauma Bay: this is a perfect place where your kids can learn about conservation, safety rules, and marine life. And a perfect swimming opportunity for them.
• Dole Plantation: your kids will have a fun and educative day here as you explore the plantation and feed the fish inside the pond. You can also buy yummy pineapple treats here.
• Visit the Black Sand & Green Sand Beach: These are amazing places for your beach vacations. There are so many amazing beaches in Hawaii. And the green and black sand beaches stand out the most.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Hawaii

• Turtle Bay Resort : can be found in a stunning location with a private beach and a huge pool. You will get ocean views from your hotel. With many things to do like having surf lessons, snorkeling, bike rentals, and so on.
• Grand Wailea : the hotel rooms have a private balcony and connecting room for family. It is the perfect spot for standup paddleboarding, and boogie-boarding. With many water activities like water slides, water elevator, game area, and many more.
• Four Seasons Hualalai : it has the option of connecting rooms for family. And it has many kid amenities with a kid pool that your kids will love and can learn to swim and snorkel inside the pool here.
• Montage Kapalua Bay : this luxury resort with many fun activities for kids like a kids club. And a teen program where they can go hiking, horseback riding, and zip lining nearby.
• The Westin Maui Resort & Spa : luxury resort with an adjoining room for the family. And a mini water park with waterslides, hot tubs, and kids’ programs for your kids.

Florida is among the best state to visit in the United States with kids as there are lots of fun things to do, especially Orlando With Kids . The attractions include museums, theme parks, beaches, and natural parks.

There are many fun things to do with kids and memories to make that your kids will surely remember.

Top Things To Do In Florida With Kids

• Walt Disney World : this attraction is filled with thrilling experiences like fun rides, live performances, themed restaurants, and so on.
• Universal Studios Orlando: offers opportunities to go on thrilling-themed rides, watch stunt shows, try out snacks on treats from Honey Dukes, and water park to enjoy in the summer for kids.
• Legoland Florida : a fun place for kids as they can go on fun rides, learn how to drive, and get creative. And there is a waterpark during the summer.
• Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: this attraction provides the perfect opportunity to learn about how insect eats, breed, and migrate. And your kids can get creative at the imagination art gallery.
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: a perfect place to go snorkeling and see mesmerizing and colorful corals, sea turtles, reef fish, and so on. There are many water sports for you and your kids here.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Florida

• Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach : there are many family-friendly amenities in this resort with many activities like nature walks, dining in movies, sandcastle building, games, and so on.
• Holiday Inn Vacation Club At Orange Lake Resort : the Holiday Inn Resort  property is full of kid-friendly things to do with kids.
• Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa : located on Miramar Beach with multiple pools, a water park, a zip line, go-karts, child care services, and many more.
• Legoland Florida Resort : this resort is next to Legoland Florida theme park with numerous children’s facilities. And a colorful interior filled with Lego toys and play areas.
• Portofino Island Resort : located at Portofino Beach with numerous kid-friendly activities like kayak excursions, a water park, mermaid adventure, surf camp, dolphin cruises, mesmerizing firework shows, and so on.

10. Illinois

Illinois is a state that is rich in excitement, adventure, and history. And it is also the state that Abraham Lincoln calls his home which also makes it pretty special.

The state has many fun adventures waiting for your kids from the Pirates Cove Children’s Themes Park to the zoos for the family that loves animals to nerve-wracking adventures at Safari Land.

There are also many museums with a stunning range of exhibits and children-friendly activities. And Chicago is one of our favorite cities to visit.

Top Things To Do In Illinois With Kids

• Millennium Park: This is a stunning attraction that hosts hundreds of free cultural events like exhibitions, concerts, and family activities.
• Leaning Tower of Niles: the perfect place to attend open-air music concerts, enjoy picnics, and take Instagram-worthy pictures.
• Chicago Botanic Garden: gorgeous garden with 27 display gardens that you can explore. You can also visit the on-site gift shop and café.
• Willis Tower Skydeck: this is an iconic building where you will get to see mesmerizing views of the city and know about the history of Chicago.
• Chicago Children’s Museum: this museum will help build the creativity of your kids. You should not miss this attraction while in Chicago.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Illinois

• Hilton Chicago : the hotel is close to many attractions and it has an indoor pool and running track. There is also the spacious rooftop deck where you can relax in the sun.
• Four Seasons Hotel : there are many fun activities and learning opportunities for your kids here with pizza-making class. Your kids can also listen to bedtime take from the hotel’s storyteller. And there are toys and treats that the hotel provides for your kids.
• Fairmont Chicago at Millennium Park: located in the heart of downtown Chicago and close to Millenium Park where you can enjoy a family gourmet picnic, cribs for toddlers, and a kids’ menu in the restaurant.
• Swissotel Chicago : numerous kid activities waiting for you here ranging from the coloring area to a playing area. The hotel also has an adjoining room equipped with stuffed animals, video games, and so on.
• Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown : the hotel offers free breakfast and is close to many parks. The hotel is also equipped with an indoor heated pool.

Oregon is a kid-friendly state with numerous attractions and fun activities. Portland is a great city to go for a weekend getaway for new adventures.

There are many things to do with kids from riding the aerial tram to see a mesmerizing view of the city from the city to seeing rare animals at the zoo and exploring the popular Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

The state also has many spots for a picnic. And there are many café’s to try out mouthwatering meals with the whole family.

Top Things To Do In Oregon With Kids

• Oregon Zoo: best place for the family to have a stunning animal experience where you will see and learn something about your favorite animal that you don’t know before.
• Portland Aerial Tram: thrilling ride where you will also get magnificent views of the city. And the perfect place to take Instagram-worthy pictures.
• Coastal Oregon: Oregon has lots of beaches to visit just 2 hours outside of Portland that your kids will love.
• Portland Children’s Museum: the museum is filled with many interactive and stunning exhibits for the kids. And they also encourage the kids to be creative.
• Floating World Comics: this is a stunning bookstore in downtown Portland where your kids can get comic books of all kinds that they like.
• Go Hiking: there are so many family-friendly hiking trails in Portland , and waterfalls too.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Oregon

• Inn at Seaside : located in a picturesque area and it has many fun activities for the kids. The hotel is equipped with an aquarium, bumper boats, kitchens, and so on.
• Sandcastle Beachfront Motel : motel has stunning oceanfront views with kitchens, whirlpool tubs, an indoor pool, and so on.
• Hotel Lucia : this is a luxury hotel with standard amenities the hotel is pet-friendly and has lots of facilities that the kids will enjoy.
• The Ocean Lodge : this lodge is equipped with kitchenettes, fireplaces, a library filled with books for all ages, a free continental breakfast, and so on.
• Hallmark Resort & Spa Cannon Beach : this is a mid-range beachfront hotel close to Haystack Rock with lovely spas and saltwater pools.

This is a city driven by tourism. Whether you are in the city for business trips, family vacations, or party groups, there are many fun things that you can do in Las Vegas .

The state is getting filled with family-friendly activities that will make your kids have a good time. The city is also adding more and more fun and stunning experience which makes the state somewhere that you and your kids’ needs.

Top Things To Do In Nevada With Kids

• Visit Las Vegas : Although Las Vegas does not seem family-friendly, there are many things to do here. From the visit to Bellagio Fountains and conservatory to the ride in the world’s tallest Ferris wheels.
• Explore Ely: this stunning museum gives you the chance to go on 90-minute train rides. With many other activities that vary from one season to another.
• Visit Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park: this park is divided into three main parks where your kids will get to learn more about history.
• Visit the Great Basin National Park: at this park, your kids will get to enjoy outdoor activities with many exhibitions of art sculptures. And a perfect place to go hiking.
• Shark Reef aquarium: this is a thrilling underwater experience that you and your kids should not miss. You will see diverse dangerous and unusual aquatic animals.

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels In Las Vegas

• The Mirage : The hotel has nightly eruptions of the man-made volcano. Watching the lion and dolphins, a puppet show, a kid’s menu, and many more.
• MGM Grand Hotel & Casino : This luxury hotel has many thrilling facilities for kids. Like the five-pool complex with a long winding river pool, waterfalls, and so on.
• Green Valley Ranch Resort and Spa : a stunning resort with an arcade and Regal Cinemas movie theater on site. The hotel also has a pool area with a sandy bottom which is popular among the family.
• Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino : the hotel is well known for its tank pool. And the highlight is the water slide that runs through a shark tank.
• The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa : the hotel offers family-friendly amenities with large guest rooms that are suitable for families, children pool, and so on.

Show your kids that adventure can be right around the corner!

There are so many amazing states to visit with kids. So if international travel isn’t possible, consider local travel by bus, train , or plane.

Don’t forget to get Travel Books for your kids to prepare them for whatever state you plan to visit.

Booking Your Trip – Tips & Tricks

How To Book Cheap Flights When You Travel

If you are looking to book the cheapest flights you can possibly find on the internet, then make sure to use  Skyscanner when searching for flights. Don’t forget to download the  Free Skyscanner App  also which is very handy. This is how I was able to get $12.40 airfare from Los Angeles to London, as well as $9.40 airfare from London to Italy.

How To Book Affordable Accommodation When You Travel

When booking accommodation,  TripAdvisor  is the way to go because you can read reviews and see photos from other travelers to get a feel of where you will be staying. Other great sites to book hotels are HotelsCombined , Booking .com and Hotels.com . Don’t forget to check HomeAway and VRBO for house and villa rentals too. Perfect for when you travel with a large family, and also to save money when hotels are expensive. Another favorite of mine is BookVIP – they offer huge resort savings.

How To Book Activities When You Travel

My favorite website to search for activities, tours and especially skip the line tickets is  Viator and Get Your Guide . This makes trip planning so much easier because you don’t have to search several sites as both websites have several options to choose from. Same also goes with TripAdvisor Attractions – you can search and book activities as well as read reviews.

How To Book Rental Cars When You Travel

Instead of checking every single website, I use RentalCars.com , Car Rental 8 and Skyscanner Car Rentals to find car rentals all over the world with just one click. If you plan to park at the airport, visit Airport Parking and make a reservation.

Why Travel Insurance Is a Must When You Travel

People book trips and forget the most important part, purchasing  travel insurance . Because we travel often, I  purchase our travel insurance through Allianz  for a year at a time which means that we are covered for all trips within that year. Travel insurance will protect you and your family against theft, injury illness, flight cancellations and so much more. It is a MUST!

Looking to save even more money when you travel?

Visit my  Travel Resources  page to see all the reliable and trustworthy brands that I use to book my travel with. I only recommend brands that I’ve used and can vouch for, so you’re in good hands! ? Also check out these posts below:

• How To Save Money On Flights
• Best Websites To Find Cheap Flights & Error Fares
• Tips On How To Make Travel Affordable For Families

Top Travel With Kids Tips

Traveling with kids and have a few questions you need answers too, these posts below will help your trip run smooth.

• Best Travel Gear For Kids
• How To Travel With Kids Internationally Alone
• Top Must Have Items When Traveling With Kids
• Everything You Need To Know About Traveling With A Car Seat

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Hey Fam, I’m so glad you’re here! I am an entrepreneur and travel enthusiast who is passionate about sharing an alternate way of living surrounding travel, homeschooling, parenting and financial independence, with a mission to inspire other families.

Grab My Family Travel Guide

Get ready to transform your family vacations with our upcoming Travel Guide.

Don’t miss out on making your family trips more memorable and stress-free. Join our waitlist now and be the first to grab a copy that will pave the way for a lifetime of adventurous globe trotting and meaningful memories.

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Pine Knoll Lodge & Cabins

Fun States To Travel To

There are many different fun states to travel to in the United States. The best part is that there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway or an action-packed adventure, there is a state for you.

If you are looking for a quiet getaway, consider traveling to Oregon or Maine. Both states are known for their beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Oregon is home to Mount Hood and the Oregon Coast, while Maine is known for its Acadia National Park.

If you are looking for an action-packed adventure, consider traveling to California or Florida. California is home to Hollywood, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Yosemite National Park, while Florida is home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Daytona Beach.

No matter what your interests are, there is a fun state to travel to in the United States. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next vacation today!

• 1 What is the best state to go on vacation?
• 2 What is the funnest state to visit in the US?
• 3 What is the #1 vacation spot in the US?
• 4 Where is the prettiest place to visit in the US?
• 5 Where is the best vacation spot?
• 6 What is the most boring state?
• 7 What is the least boring state?

What is the best state to go on vacation?

There are many different factors to consider when trying to decide the best state to go on vacation. Some people might be looking for a state with beautiful beaches, while others might be interested in a state with exciting nightlife. No matter what you are looking for, there is a perfect state out there for you to visit.

If you are looking for a beautiful state to visit, Hawaii is a great option. With its stunning beaches and lush rain forests, Hawaii is a paradise for nature lovers. If you are looking for a more bustling city atmosphere, Florida might be a better choice. With its world-famous theme parks and miles of white sand beaches, Florida is a popular vacation destination for people of all ages.

If you are looking for a state with a lot of history and culture, Louisiana might be a good choice. From the vibrant city of New Orleans to the stunning bayous in the countryside, Louisiana has something for everyone. If you are looking for a more outdoorsy experience, Colorado is a great option. With its stunning mountains and miles of hiking and biking trails, Colorado is a nature lover’s paradise.

No matter what you are looking for, there is a perfect state out there for you to visit. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable vacation!

What is the funnest state to visit in the US?

There are many different states in the US that are fun to visit, but some stand out more than others.

One of the most popular states to visit is California. This state is known for its stunning coastline, amazing theme parks, and diverse landscape. Whether you’re into hiking, skiing, or surfing, California has something for everyone.

Another great state to visit is Florida. This state is home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, as well as miles of sandy beaches. Florida is also a great place to go golfing, fishing, and kayaking.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, consider visiting Alaska. This state is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, as well as plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing.

No matter what state you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a great time.

What is the #1 vacation spot in the US?

There is no one definitive answer to the question of what is the number one vacation spot in the United States. However, there are a few contenders that come to mind.

One possible answer is Orlando, Florida. This city is home to Walt Disney World, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Other popular tourist destinations in Orlando include Universal Studios and SeaWorld.

Another possible answer is Las Vegas, Nevada. This city is known for its many casinos and resorts. Some of the most famous casinos in Las Vegas include the Bellagio, the Venetian, and the MGM Grand.

A third possible answer is San Francisco, California. This city is known for its steep hills, Cable Cars, and landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

Where is the prettiest place to visit in the US?

The United States is a vast country, with plenty of pretty places to visit. Choosing the prettiest one is a difficult task, but we’ll try to narrow it down.

One contender for the prettiest place in the US is Glacier National Park in Montana. With its snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests, the park is a nature lover’s paradise.

Hawaii is another contender, with its stunning beaches and lush tropical vegetation. Whether you’re swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific or hiking through a rainforest, you’re sure to be amazed by Hawaii’s natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a place with a bit more history, Charleston, South Carolina might be the place for you. This charming southern city is home to beautiful antebellum architecture and a lively arts scene.

No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be a pretty place in the US waiting to be discovered. So go explore and enjoy the natural beauty of this amazing country!

Where is the best vacation spot?

There are many different places that people might consider the best vacation spot. Some may think that a tropical island is the best, while others may prefer a more rugged mountain setting. There are pros and cons to every place, and it ultimately depends on the individual’s preferences.

One of the most popular vacation destinations is Hawaii. It has beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and a tropical climate. It is also a very expensive place to visit, and the flights can be long and uncomfortable.

Another popular destination is Florida. It has a wide variety of beaches, parks, and other attractions. It is also a very popular place for retirees, and the cost of living can be high.

If someone is looking for a more active vacation, they might consider Colorado. The Rocky Mountains offer beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. However, the winters can be very cold.

California is another popular destination, with its diverse landscape and temperate climate. It has both coastal and inland areas, as well as mountains and deserts. It is also a very expensive place to visit.

Ultimately, the best vacation spot is the one that best suits the individual’s needs and interests. There are many different places to choose from, and each has its own unique attractions.

What is the most boring state?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as everyone’s definition of “boring” will be different. However, some states are generally agreed to be more boring than others.

One of the most commonly cited examples is West Virginia. This state is often described as being incredibly dull, with little to do or see. Other states that are commonly cited as being boring include Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa.

There are a number of reasons why these states might be considered boring. One factor is that they are relatively rural, with not a lot of big cities or popular tourist destinations. Additionally, the weather in these states can be quite dreary, with long stretches of cold weather or humidity.

Of course, there are also plenty of people who find these states to be perfectly charming, and wouldn’t consider them to be remotely dull. So it really comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a lively, exciting place to live, then you’re probably better off avoiding states that are typically considered to be boring. But if you’re looking for a more relaxed, low-key lifestyle, then one of these states could be a good fit for you.

What is the least boring state?

Every person has different ideas about what is the least boring state. For some, it might be a lively and bustling city like New York or Tokyo. Others may prefer a more rural and peaceful setting, like the mountains of Colorado or the beaches of Hawaii.

No matter what your preferences are, there is surely a state out there that can fit the bill. For example, if you love the excitement and hustle and bustle of a big city, then you may want to consider New York or California. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and laid-back vibe, then you may want to check out Hawaii or Colorado.

Of course, there are many other states to choose from, and the one that is the least boring for you will depend on your individual interests and preferences. So get out there and explore the different states in the USA until you find the one that is perfect for you!

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#EarthDay 2024: NOAA ships, marine plastics, a fun little quiz and more

Visit us all #earthweek long.

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Looking for ways to get outside, get involved and get informed this #EarthDay? We’ve got you covered with our brand new Earth Day web portal !   From fascinating feature stories to NOAA’s first Fleet Week, live solar eclipse coverage to citizen science opportunities, all month long we’re sharing information and resources to help you help our planet. 

April 15-19: Virtually go aboard our fleet of aircraft, vessels, uncrewed systems for the first-ever #NOAAFleetWeek . Aligning with the tradition of Fleet Weeks, during which the public can experience active military ships and aircraft, NOAA is offering virtual “behind the scenes” access to the NOAA fleet from April 15 to April 19 through social media takeovers, web stories, videos, and more. Join us all week to learn more about the platforms and people behind NOAA’s science, service, and stewardship mission.  

April 18-22: Looking for a way to honor our planet this Earth Day, but not sure where to start? Take our quiz to spark some ideas!  Plus, who doesn't love a good story? Here are 10 inspirational NOAA-led citizen science success stories to inspire you .

April 22:  The big day! Dive into Earth Day infographics, satellite animations, fun features, videos, learn about how marine plastics impact our planet and more.

All month long, be sure to:

• Check noaa.gov/earthday regularly for our latest and greatest Earth Month features. 
• Stay connected by joining our social media communities . Follow NOAA’s Earth Month coverage using the hashtag #EarthDayNOAA.

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