must visit places in the us

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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The top 12 places to visit in the USA in 2024

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

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

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

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

1. New York, New York

Best place for art and architecture

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

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

2. San Francisco, CA

Best for counter-culture

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

3. National Mall in Washington, DC

Best for national history

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

4. New England

Best for forest drives

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

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Best for West Coast exploration

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

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

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for foodies and art lovers

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

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

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for Indigenous history and culture

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

8. Chicago, Illinois

Best metropolis for midwestern charm

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

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Best for big peaks and winter sports

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

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

10. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina and Virginia

Best for east coast mountains

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

11. The Everglades, Florida

Best for wildlife watchers

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

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

12. Southwestern Utah

Best for geology lovers

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

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

This article was first published May 2021 and updated February 2024

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

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My 31 Favorite Places to Visit in the USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. New Orleans

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

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

4. Asheville

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

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

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

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

6. Redwood National Park

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

7. Glacier National Park

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

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

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

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

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

10. New York City

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

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

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

11. Natchez

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

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

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

12. Savannah

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

13. The Grand Canyon

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

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

14. Nashville

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

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

15. San Francisco

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

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

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

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

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

17. San Diego

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

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

19. Lake Tahoe

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

20. Anywhere in Montana

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

21. Washington D.C.

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

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

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

22. Cape Cod

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

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

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

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

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

24. Las Vegas

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

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

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

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

25. Portland

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

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

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

26. Seattle

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

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

27. Deadwood

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

28. Kansas City

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

29. Louisville

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

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

30. Charleston

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

31. Franklin

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Best Place to Visit in Every U.S. State

By Caitlin Morton

The best places to visit in the U.S. are as beautiful as they are diverse: Alaska's glaciers, Arizona's canyons, Arkansas's Ozarks...and that's only the first letter of the alphabet. Add to that a fascinating (albeit complicated) history, world-class museums , and a wealth of resorts and restaurants , and you have yourself a list of must-visits that's nearly impossible to cap off.

Picking our favorite things to do across the country wasn't easy, but we managed to distill the country's many sights into just out standout experience, per state (plus Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C.). Of course, we’ve only begun to scrape the surface of what this country has to offer—so consider this your starting point for exploring. Read on for the 52 best places to visit in the U.S.

(Note: Not every item on this list is currently an option due to the COVID-19 pandemic . If you plan to hit the road in the coming months, make sure to check the website of the attraction you want to visit for up-to-date info, and read up on travel restrictions for that state . Or, simply bookmark your favorite activities for the future—this list will give you plenty to look forward to.)

This gallery was originally published in June 2015. It has been updated with new information.

Best thing to do in Alabama: Pay respects to Montgomery’s history

Traveling to the South is complicated. It’s a region of the United States with plenty of attractions for tourists (not to mention some of the best food in the country), but, like much of the U.S., it hasn’t always owned up to its ugly past. But Montgomery is one city that is starting to find a balance between tourism and history, with cultural institutions like the Legacy Museum opening their doors among the chain restaurants and riverboat tours. “My time in Montgomery was a reminder of how crucial it is to cling to sacred remembrance and confront those ghosts of a troubled past,” writes Nneka M. Okona , an Atlanta-based travel writer, of her visit to the museum. “It’s a difficult space, but it’s also one where the act of remembering honors the struggles of the past—while leaving room for transformation and healing in the present.”

Best thing to do in Alaska: Go cruising for glaciers

Cruises to Alaska offer many of the same sights as Arctic tours in northern Europe—icebergs, whales, snow-capped peaks—but with slightly more forgiving temperatures (highs can reach the 60s on a good day from April to October). For a higher chance of some wildlife spotting, get on board the 2,376-passenger Norwegian Jewel for a seven-night southbound cruise through Alaska's Inside Passage. You’re all but guaranteed to see some bald eagles and grizzly bears from the comfort of your ship deck.

Best thing to do in Arizona: Photograph the lesser canyons

Not to discount the grandest of canyons, but just look at the colors of Antelope Canyon in northeastern Arizona: It's a painter’s palette of rust red, ochre, and orange. A trip to this corner of Navajo Nation delivers the kind of up-close discovery of the state’s slot canyons that isn’t as easily experienced at the Grand Canyon. Take a 4x4 tour of Antelope Canyon, where you can photograph patterns as the sunlight filters through the striated stone, followed up with a boat ride in nearby Lake Powell.

Best thing to do in Arkansas: Seek out modern art in the Ozarks      

Bentonville probably isn’t the next Chelsea, but art lovers have had a new reason to visit Northwest Arkansas since the 2011 opening of the blockbuster Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Bankrolled by billionaire Alice Walton, it’s stocked with works from names like Thomas Hart Benton, Mark Rothko, and Andy Warhol. In early 2020, a satellite of Crystal Bridges called The Momentary also opened in downtown Bentonville, complete with 24,000 square feet devoted to the visual, performing, and even culinary arts.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

Best thing to do in California: Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

We'd argue that no American road trip is as iconic as taking Highway 1 south from San Francisco along California’s coast. A drive along the Pacific Coast Highway feels like a Springsteen song come to life—expect to see weekenders at the wheel of rented Ford Mustangs, accelerating out of hairpin curves like a runaway American dream. Throughout the nearly 500-mile-drive south to Los Angeles, the views rarely disappoint, especially if you take the 17-Mile Drive detour at Carmel, Bixby Bridge, and Big Sur.

Best thing to do in Colorado: Catch an outdoor concert

The next time you find yourself in Denver , namely during the warmer months, head 16 miles west to the almost 900-acre Red Rocks Amphitheatre , which has miles of hiking trails, sandstone cliffs, and a geologically formed amphitheater that's hosted everyone from The Beatles to Stevie Nicks. While most concerts scheduled for 2020 have been canceled due to COVID-19, the venue is still hosting yoga sessions every weekend morning, and as of publication, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s September show is still a go. (See the entire calendar here .)

Connecticut

Best thing to do in Connecticut: Take a fall foliage-themed river cruise       

Connecticut often plays second fiddle to Vermont and Massachusetts when it comes to fall foliage , but don’t write off this New England destination quite yet. The state’s northwest is filled with state parks and hiking trails just begging to be photographed, like Mt. Tom State Park and the Deer Pond Farm Sanctuary in Sherman. Even procrastinators can get in on the action around coastal Connecticut, where the leaves change color about two weeks later than the north. if hiking isn’t really your thing, take a foliage-themed cruise down the Connecticut River with River Quest. (Pro tip: Make Winvian Farm , a luxurious 18-chalet retreat, your home base.)

Best thing to do in Delaware: Get a heady dose of Italian Renaissance design      

Who knew Delaware houses one of the best examples of Italian Renaissance architecture in the country? Located in the northern city of Wilmington (just 30 minutes south of the Philadelphia International Airport), Hotel du Pont is a 12-story building from 1913, complete with 11 luxury suites and a playhouse theater. Design features like European chandeliers and frescoed ceilings almost make you think you’re in Florence , but the hotel’s location in the Brandywine Valley is one-hundred percent Delaware. Ascend the grand double staircase to take a long soak in your oversized bathtub, then drop in for a pre-opera dinner at the oak-paneled Green Room.

Best thing to do in Florida: Drive 127 miles for a slice of pie

When you type in directions from Miami to Key West on Google Maps, it looks like the route sends you straight into the ocean. In reality, the 127-mile drive though the Florida Keys will send you on the Overseas Highway, with the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It's a great way to pay a visit to all of the Keys in one day—the drive from Miami to Key West takes just over three hours, which allows plenty of time to stop periodically for some memorable meals (try the key lime pie at Blond Giraffe in Key Largo). You could do a round-trip in one day, but we suggest staying the night at one of Key West’s best hotels .

Best thing to do in Georgia: Get spooked in Savannah

Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in the South, with Spanish moss and porched houses around every turn. Yet there's no denying the town's eeriness —even daytime tours point out the deaths that allegedly occurred at mansions as you pass by. Take one of the many available ghost tours at night to see some of the creepier spots, like Colonial Park Cemetery, Bonaventure Cemetery (a setting for the book and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil ), and the Mercer Williams house. Bonus: Your inevitable goosebumps will be a welcome respite from Georgia's heat and humidity.

Best thing to do in Hawaii: Take a helicopter tour of Kauai     

Kauai might be home to some of Hawaii’s best hidden beaches and tropical rainforests, but a whopping 70 percent of the island is inaccessible by land. The best way to appreciate the breadth and beauty of the island is via helicopter (arrange a ride with tour companies like Blue Hawaiian and Sunshine Helicopters ). Only by air can you truly appreciate the emerald valleys, jagged cliffs, and cascading waterfalls that cover the island. For truly epic views, go the Na Pali Coast route, and peer down at the impossibly deep chasms of Waimea Canyon.

Best thing to do in Idaho: Enjoy pure, unobstructed stargazing

Nearly 80 percent of North Americans live in areas where light pollution obscures most of the night sky. If you fall into that category, you may want to consider heading to central Idaho. In December 2017, the state became home to the U.S.'s first-ever dark sky reserve , a designated area that provides a pristine view of the cosmos. The reserve is 300 miles southeast of Boise, spanning 1,400 square miles of Blaine County, Custer County, and surrounding areas.

Best thing to do in Illinois: Spend 3.5 hours eating Chicago’s best pizza     

Chicago Pizza Tours are a fun and informative way to explore the city's most famous culinary export—and no other tour in town will leave you as well-fed. The activity typically consists of ten people (nine guests and one guide) getting into a van and visiting four of Chicago’s best pizza joints. Expect to eat somewhere around six slices of pizza, varying from the city’s signature deep-dish pie to the surprising thin-crust options at Pizano's .

Best thing to do in Indiana: Visit one of the country's newest National Parks

In February 2019, the 15,000-acre Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was upgraded to the Indiana Dunes National Park, making it America's 61st national park —and the first-ever national park in the state of Indiana. The Indiana Dunes stretch for 15 miles along the shores of Lake Michigan, making it a popular spot for swimming (and even surfing) during the summer. It's also one of many beloved day trips from Chicago , reachable by car and the South Shore Line train from the city.

Best thing to do in Iowa: Stay in a hotel designed by Frank Lloyd Wright   

In the heart of Mason City, Historic Park Inn is the last remaining Frank Lloyd Wright-designed and -built hotel in the world. Listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, the design is pure Prairie School-style—especially the dramatic lobby. The building originally served as both a bank and an inn when it opened in 1910, but competing hotels and financial crises in Mason City caused the Park Inn to decline over the next several decades, and it eventually closed down in 1972. Luckily, some 30 years later, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation in Scottsdale, Arizona, certified an extensive renovation of the interior and exterior of the building, which reopened to guests in 2011. We'd say "historic" is an understatement.

Best thing to do in Kansas: See sunflowers the size of your head

Who says you have to go to Tuscany to see endless fields of sunflowers? You can find equally gorgeous fields—without needing a passport—in Kansas, the Sunflower State herself. Every year from around August to September, Grinter's Sunflower Farm in Lawrence (about 30 miles west of Kansas City) attracts thousands of visitors to its grand sunflower farm. The 40 acres of blooms look incredible from every angle, but get up close to really marvel at the flowers, which you'll find are roughly the size of your own head—and nearly as tall as the average traveler, stretching between five and seven feet high.

Best thing to do in Kentucky: Shop for massive hats before the Derby

Unlike our cousins across the pond, Americans don’t have many opportunities to sport enormous, ornate hats. That’s why the Kentucky Derby isn’t just a horse race—it’s a one-of-a-kind fashion show with millinery at the forefront. Between juleps, hit the shops in Louisville and pick out a brightly colored topper of your very own, then work your way through the downtown area (especially between Main and Broadway) and find an outfit to match.

Best thing to do in Louisiana: Take a drag tour in New Orleans

Anyone with an interest in cultural studies—especially drag and burlesque—will have a field day with NOLA Drag Tours . The tours show the history of New Orleans through a queer lens, exploring the French Quarter and its immediate environs. While the guides are funny and fabulous, they don’t sugar-coat anything, retelling tragic events alongside inspirational stories. Information spans from the birth of Jazz to Voodoo queen Marie Laveau, to an entertainingly damning history of Andrew Jackson.

Best thing to do in Maine: When in doubt, eat lobster

Maine is rife with small lobster shacks serving fresh-off-the-boat product, local charm, and quaint harbor views. But it's tough to top the drama of Cape Elizabeth's Two Lights area in all its Downeast glory, with its lighthouse, rocky shore, wave-chopped sea, and an old-school lobster shack that still makes everything by hand despite the summer crowds. Anything from the ocean is good here, but start with the classic lobster roll and fries. Grab a table near the water and wash your meal down with a local beer, followed by a homemade pie—blueberry, if it's August—and a stroll on the rocks.

Best thing to do in Maryland: Watch baseball at the country’s most beautiful stadium

When Oriole Park at Camden Yards opened in 1992, it set a new bar for baseball stadiums around the country, with beautiful architecture, modern amenities, and a better experience for fans—and by that we largely mean roomy seats, at least by MLB standards. More than 25 years later, it remains one of the best places to see a ball game in the country (according to Ballpark Digest ) even when the O’s aren’t at the top of their game. Grab a BBQ pork sandwich from Boog’s Barbecue and a National Bohemian (call it Natty Boh to fit in with the locals), and don’t forget to shout a hearty “Oh!” during “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Massachusetts

Best thing to do in Massachusetts: Become a cranberry farmer for a day

If you've ever wanted to know what it's like to harvest cranberries, Mayflower Cranberries in Plympton has you covered. Paul Rubio describes the experience for Traveler : "You’ll put on a pair of overalls, grab a rake, and wade through the flooded cranberry bogs of rural Massachusetts, harvesting several tons of vitamin-rich red berries. This isn’t just for show—all locations are working farms and part of the Ocean Spray cooperative." Have any of your friends done that yet?

Best thing to do in Michigan: Experience a world without cars

A speck of land where Lake Huron meets Lake Michigan, Mackinac Island is one of the best (and cutest) little islands in the U.S. Motorized transportation is banned, so tourists and locals alike travel by horse and carriage or bicycle. It's anchored by the stately columned porch of the historic Grand Hotel , which is looking great for 131 years old. Hop on a bike and check out the natural rock formations, forests, and Victorian village, and don't you dare leave without filling your suitcase with fudge. (You can pretend it's a souvenir for your friends back home—we won't tell.)

Best thing to do in Minnesota: Take a North Shore road trip

Minnesota is the 12th-largest state in the country in terms of landmass, but ranks only 21st in population. That means the state is full of wide-open spaces perfect for a leisurely road trip , specifically along the picturesque North Shore. Plan a trip for spring, summer, or autumn (skip winter—it really is as cold as people claim) that starts in Duluth, stretches across Lake Superior, and ends in Grand Portage National Park just south of Canada. During the four-day drive, you can expect stunning views, quaint hotels, and some of the best donuts you’ll ever eat.

Mississippi

Best thing to do in Mississippi: Explore the movement that changed the nation

Open since December 2017, the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum in Jackson sheds light on the state's history, ranging from prehistoric times to the modern age. The museum's primary focus is the Civil Rights Movement, though, displaying objects like the mug shots of every freedom rider who was arrested in Mississippi, and monoliths engraved with the names of known lynching victims.

Best thing to do in Missouri: Eat your body weight in BBQ

Kansas City has been known across the country as a bona fide BBQ destination long before the Fab Five took to its streets. The American Royal World Series of Barbecue will celebrate its 41st anniversary this September, but you don't have to wait until then to fill your bellies with pulled pork and brisket. Devote a weekend trip to hopping among some of the city's best BBQ joints, from Joe's KC to Jack Stack to Gates . If you only have time for one meal, go to Q39 and order the sliced burnt ends, tender and flavorful cubes of beef which Q39 waiters are known to (perfectly) describe as "meat marshmallows."

Best thing do in Montana: Get a taste of dude ranch life—celebrity-style

Western-inspired comforts, world-class cuisine, and secluded accommodations normally akin to five-star resorts: This is what dude ranch life looks like in 2020. As Jordi Lippe-McGraw reported for Traveler , guest ranches in Big Sky Country are the next luxury getaway, drawing the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and members of Taylor Swift's squad in recent years. See what all the fuss is about at Montana resorts like The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, with 6,000 acres of rugged wilderness and horseback riding mixed with spa treatments and chef-created meals; or The Resort at Paws Up (Gwyneth's fave), where you can choose between luxury cabin rentals and glamping tents.

Best thing to do in Nebraska: Travel the actual Oregon Trail

For many, an Oregon Trail experience involves pixelated pioneers dying of dysentery on the namesake computer game. But you can get a real-life taste of the pioneer experience by taking a drive through western Nebraska. The Cornhusker State is perfect for summer road trips , with the average temperature hovering around 87 degrees in July and August and plenty of roadside attractions worthy of lengthy pit stops. Among them is Scotts Bluff National Monument, once a stop on the actual Oregon Trail , that now welcomes visitors with vast plains, covered wagons, and epic landmarks like Chimney Rock.

Best thing to do in Nevada: Get an aerial view of Sin City

The most awe-inspiring experiences in Vegas are those that let you truly see the feat that is Las Vegas . Sundance Helicopters offers a number of scenic tours, but the evening one, which takes you high above the lit-up Strip, is the absolute best. If you can, book a trip that circles The Strip right as it gets dark, so you're in the air at the moment when all the lights come on; it's incredibly dramatic, even in a city that is no stranger to over-the-top performances.

New Hampshire

Best thing to do in New Hampshire: Try your hand at winter surfing

Not for the faint of heart, winter surfing has replaced skiing as the state’s trendiest cold-weather sport. “It isn’t as consistent as some places out west, and it definitely isn’t as warm as Hawaii,” writes Todd Plummer for Traveler , “but from hurricane season in the fall through March (and whenever a blizzard pummels the coast), the surfing here can be as good as or even better than anywhere else in the U.S.” Sure, you have to wear a thick suit and Vaseline on your face, but you’ll be rewarded with six- to ten-foot surf that pros swear is among the best they’ve ever experienced.

Best thing to do in New Jersey: Order a "regular sub" in Atlantic City

Hoagie, hero, sub: In New Jersey, the sandwiches have as many names as toppings. In Atlantic City, be sure to order the "regular sub" (an Italian hero) at a booth in the White House Sub Shop—where everyone from The Beatles and Frank Sinatra to Mohammed Ali and Shakira have come for what is possibly the world's best sandwich. The Daily Meal ranked the Italian hero #11 in a round-up of America’s best sandwiches in 2017, describing the sub as follows: “Genoa salami, provolone, ham, and capicola are piled onto a soft and chewy Italian loaf, topped with lettuce, tomato, sliced onion, chopped roasted peppers, Italian seasonings, oil, and vinegar...There’s almost always a line around the block at this place, but the wait is well worth it.” Sign us up.

Best thing to do in New Mexico: Wave to a seven-story-high Darth Vader

Known as “the most photographed event in the world,” the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta does not disappoint, offering families and travelers the chance to get up close with hundreds of seven-story balloons ranging from cute animals to Darth Vader. Editor Meredith Carey offers the following advice for travelers : "The key to making the most of the balloon festival? Waking up before dawn. Events start at 5:45 a.m., with the first balloons lighting up the still-dark sky to show other pilots what the wind conditions are like. We'd recommend leaving your hotel or Airbnb even earlier (or take an Uber), as parking lines can get hairy, even at 5:00 a.m."

Best thing to do in New York: Cruise the Hudson

The term "river cruise" usually conjures up images of the Danube and Amazon, but some of the best routes are right here in the good old U.S. of A. New Yorkers, in particular, luck out with their proximity to the Hudson. Operator American Cruise Lines offers weeklong sailings from the city up to Albany, showing passengers the kaleidoscopic natural beauty of the Hudson River Valley and Catskill Mountains. Book a room to view sites like the Vanderbilt Mansion and Sleepy Hollow from your spacious stateroom balcony. (Voyages are planned annually in September and October.)

North Carolina

Best thing to do in North Carolina: Head to the Outer Banks

North Carolina’s Outer Banks (or OBX, according to many a bumper sticker) are some of the most gorgeous beaches in the U.S. And there’s still plenty to do if you take a break from sunbathing, including the North Carolina Aquarium in Roanoke, the memorial commemorating the Wright Brothers’ historic first flight in Kitty Hawk, and a series of iconic lighthouses, including the famous barbershop pole-style swirled one at Cape Hatteras. End the day with fried oysters in Nags Head—this is the South, after all.

North Dakota

Best thing to do in North Dakota: Experience the magic of The Enchanted Highway

Street art has another meaning in North Dakota, where 32 miles of otherwise unremarkable highway has become an art gallery. Driving The Enchanted Highway, from the town of Regent to just east of Dickinson, means spotting a collection of the world’s largest scrap metal sculptures, by local artist Gary Greff. The many roadside artworks date back to 1991, with more still in progress.

Best thing to do in Ohio: Eat burgers in Columbus

Known widely as the home of Ohio State University, Columbus has plenty to share—especially when it comes to burgers (it's where Wendy’s first got its start, after all). Stop by the rustic Thurman Café, serving over-the-top burger masterpieces dripping with egg yolk and melted cheese. For a neater option, there’s the Columbus-based chain, Northstar Café, where the superstar is (surprisingly) the beet-and-bean veggie burger. On the other end of the spectrum is dive bar Johnnie’s Tavern, where the greasy bar burger has been perfected.

Best thing to do in Oklahoma: Search for Art Deco treasures

Tulsa has one of the country’s densest concentrations of Art Deco buildings, including the stunning Boston Avenue United Methodist Church (completed in 1929), 11th Street Arkansas River Bridge (1917, renovated 1929), Gillette-Tyrell Building (1930), and the Oklahoma Natural Gas Building (1928). The Tulsa Foundation of Architecture offers guided tours of downtown’s most impressive structures at 10 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month.

Best thing to do in Oregon: Drink the best wine outside of Burgundy

An easy day trip from Portland , Willamette Valley is a wine collector's paradise set in a beautiful rolling countryside setting. Get a taste of the Old World at Domaine Serene —the least "Oregon" winery in Oregon. The clubhouse has big windows affording incredible views of the green landscapes, and the wines exude Tuscan and French influences. Another option is Stoller Family Estate , a must for all lovers of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Pennsylvania

Best thing to do in Pennsylvania: Eat your way through Reading Terminal Market

For more than 100 years, this food market in Philadelphia ’s Center City neighborhood has catered to the gustatory whims of both locals and tourists. It remains one of the best places in the city to grab a bite, like the roast pork and broccoli rabe sandwich at DiNic’s, or a hearty plate of eggs and scrapple (a local pork delicacy) at the Amish diner Dutch Eating Place. And be sure to load up on only-in-Philly specialties, like Famous 4th Street cookies, or an apple fritter from Beiler’s Bakery.

Puerto Rico

Best thing to do in Puerto Rico: Explore Old San Juan     

More than a year after Hurricane Maria made landfall, Puerto Rico has not only recovered—it’s been reborn. You can find world-class beaches all over the island, but PR is perfect for architecture lovers as well: Old San Juan remains one of the best-preserved examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in the Caribbean, with brightly painted buildings and cobblestone streets that have inspired a thousand Instagram shots. When you’re ready to take a break from the streets, stop by La Factoría for a perfectly crafted cocktail in a speakeasy setting. The signature drink, the Lavender Mule—a mix of vodka, ginger beer, and homemade lavender infusion—is the perfect way to transition from afternoon sightseeing to a night out.

Rhode Island

Best thing to do in Rhode Island: Sail like you're in the America's Cup

Take a two-day private charter on a historic America’s Cup yacht, sailing from Newport to Block Island (with a clambake and overnight stay on land) and back. 12 Meter Charters owns two boats: The Columbia , first winner of the race in Rhode Island in 1958, and the beautiful, wooden-hulled Heritage from 1970. The company will hook you up with a sailing crew (you can either participate in hoisting the sails and steering the boat, or enjoy the views while the staff takes care of everything), and they’ll even arrange beverages and catered breakfast, lunch, or hors d’oeuvres to customize your day on the water.

South Carolina

Best thing to do in South Carolina: Visit an island with no street lights

Daufuskie, a car-free historic island off Hilton Head, was once considered the Martha’s Vineyard of the South. Now it’s far more accessible than in the past, and you can stay right on one of its beautiful beaches in either a converted mansion or an old lighthouse. It's also an outpost of the Gullah community, a well-preserved, African-derived culture cultivated by emancipated slaves who moved to the remote barrier islands more than two centuries ago. One such community member is Sallie Ann Robinson, a cookbook author and tour guide, who takes visitors down bumpy dirt roads to show them old schoolhouses and restored Gullah homes, some of which now serve as vacation rentals. You can even book a cooking class with Robinson (info on her website ) to make local specialties like smuttered shrimp and grits and Lowcountry ox-tail stew.

South Dakota

Best thing to do in South Dakota: Experience the beauty of the Badlands

With stiff competition like Yosemite and Yellowstone , the Badlands of South Dakota may not be your first choice when it comes to camping in a national park. But its two campgrounds (Cedar Pass and Sage Creek) are open year-round, offering regular access to the largest stretch of prairie wilderness in the country—home to roaming bison and sheep—and one of the most spectacular night skies you may ever see.

Best thing to do in Tennessee: Treat yourself at Blackberry Mountain

Situated in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Mountain is our current favorite place in the country for a spa weekend . The newly-opened resort brings new meaning to the term "wellness retreat" with forest bathing excursions, produce-forward dishes, and bathtubs overlooking surroundings that could launch a thousand John Denver songs.

Best thing to do in Texas: Trade bird watching for bat watching

Every evening from March through November, crowds line up along Austin 's Congress Avenue Bridge for a spectacle that perfectly sums up the city's quirky, only-in-Texas vibe: 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats flying out from under the bridge during sunset, a show that lasts for nearly 45 minutes. If you can, pair your viewing with another activity downtown—not difficult, as this part of town is packed with BBQ joints and delightfully divey bars —it's even more worth making the time to watch.

Best thing to do in Utah: Tour the Mighty Five

No road trip in the U.S. is more visually mind-blowing than a tour of the Mighty Five —the tight cluster of national parks in Utah that include Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Whether you start in Salt Lake City and work your way south, or head east from Las Vegas, it's possible to hit all the parks in three days. But if you can, we suggest taking off work for two weeks and really going for it, knocking around the Mars-like formations of red rocks and hitting as many little museums and restaurants as you can between each park.

Best thing to do in Vermont: Go dog sledding (with a clear conscience)

There’s no shortage of mushing activities throughout N ew England during winter , but at northern Vermont's Eden Ethical Dogsledding in Eden Mills, the welfare of the dogs is top priority. Meet and cuddle the “Un-chained Gang”—a group of more than 35 sledding dogs—before they whisk you along an extensive, private trail network paved exclusively for sledding. Eden Mills is a scenic drive and a reasonable distance from all of northern Vermont’s principal winter destinations, like Stowe, Jay Peak, Smuggler's Notch, and Burlington.

Best thing to do in Virginia: Get out of the city and into nature

Getting out of D.C. to the Shenandoah National Park is a special treat. This part of Virginia extends along the Blue Ridge Mountains, with Skyline Drive running its length. There are natural wonders, like caverns and natural bridges and lookouts along the way, but make time for a few stops in this welcoming part of the state. In charming towns like Luray or Staunton you'll find cute places to stay, eat, and shop, and in all, this drive—ideal for leaf-peeping in fall—isn't so long or arduous to wear you out.

Best thing to do in Washington: Stand in the middle of a rainforest

Honestly, you'll be happy anywhere in Washington's Olympic National Park—but we do suggest you make it a priority to walk through the Hoh Rain Forest. It's one of the only rainforests in the U.S., complete with lichen-shrouded trees and fungus-covered logs that make you forget which country you're in for a moment. Even better? The Hoh River Valley is home to the quietest spot in the contiguous 48 states, according to Gordon Hempton, an expert acoustic ecologist.

Washington, D.C.

Best thing to do in Washington, D.C.: Spend the entire afternoon at the best Smithsonian museum

You really can’t go wrong when it comes to choosing museums in Washington, D.C. But if you only have one afternoon to spare, devote the entire time to the National Museum of African American History and Culture . The Smithsonian’s latest installation is moving from the second you see the exterior covered in metal latticework until the moment you leave, thanks to thoughtful curation of photographs, videos, and artifacts that act as a moving tribute to some of the darkest times in American history.

West Virginia

Best thing to do in West Virginia: Spend the night in a treehouse

West Virginia is home to some of the best stargazing east of the Mississippi. With 1,500 campsites across 27 state parks and forests, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to sleeping options: set up a tent, park your RV, cozy up in a yurt from Spruce Knob Mountain Center, or even stay in the Thorny Mountain Fire Tower (basically a bug-free treehouse) located at Seneca State Park.

Best thing to do in Wisconsin: Fill up on cheese curds

Oddly-shaped blobs separated from the rest of the cheese during the molding process, cheese curds are the secret snack of Wisconsin . On their own, they taste milky and salty, but you’ll also find them flavored with Cajun, taco, or buffalo seasonings. Try them straight up, deep fried, or atop fries and slathered with gravy, poutine-style—but whatever you do, eat the curds within 12 hours of them being made. (The rubbery squeak will let you know they’re just right.) To treat your taste buds real nice, pair the deep-fried curds with New Glarus brews at Wisconsin Cheese Mart in Milwaukee, or eat them at The Old Fashioned in Madison.

Best thing to do in Wyoming: Skip the crowds at Yellowstone by visiting in the winter

It’s no secret that Yellowstone National Park is one of the most magnificent sites in the entire country—but all that beauty tends to get dampened during the summer, when hoards of tourists swarm the park, slowing down traffic and blocking your views with their cameras. We recommend paying a visit between the months of November and February, when there are virtually zero crowds, but an entirely new (and beautiful) light is shed on the park. There are more wildlife viewing opportunities, the deep blues and oranges of the thermal features pop against the white snow, and the steam billowing from the hot springs covers the landscape with an ethereal mist. Plan to stay for a few days at the Old Faithful Inn (the only property open during the winter), complete with a cracking lobby fireplace and complimentary cookies and hot cider every afternoon.

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

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

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

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

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

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Best places to visit in the USA, by month

1.  January: Colorado

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

2.  February: Yellowstone National Park

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

3.  March: Hawaii

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

4.  April: Washington DC

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

5.  May: The Mighty Five

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

6.  June: The West Coast

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

7.  July: Alaska

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

8.  August: Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island

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

9.  September: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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

10.  October: New Mexico

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

11.  November: Las Vegas

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

12.  December: Miami

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

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

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

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

1. New York City

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

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona

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

3. Disney World, Florida

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

 4. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

5. San Antonio Missions, Texas

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

6. Niagara Falls, New York

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

7. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

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

8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

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

9. Washington, D.C.

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

10. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

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

Related: The 6 Best National Parks for Winter Wildlife Spotting

11. South Beach, Miami

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

12. The Narrows, Zion National Park

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

13. Santa Fe, New Mexico

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

14. Pacific Coast Highway, California

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

15. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

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

16. Nashville, Tennessee

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

17. Freedom Trail, Boston

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

18. Joshua Tree National Park, California

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

19. Road to Hana, Maui

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

20. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Colorado

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

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

21. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

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

22. Austin, Texas

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

23. Space Needle, Seattle

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

24. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

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

25. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico

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

26. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

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

27. Griffith Observatory, California

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

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

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

29. Las Vegas, Nevada

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

30. Acadia National Park, Maine

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

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

31. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

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

32. Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia

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

33. Charleston, South Carolina

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

34. Hot Springs, Arkansas

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

35. Redwood National and State Parks, California

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

36. Oahu, Hawaii

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

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

38. Sonoma, California

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

39. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

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

40. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

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

Related: Best Destinations for Adult-Only Vacations

41. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

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

42. Minnesota Lakes

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

43. Arches National Park, Utah

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

44. Kentucky Derby

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

45. Mackinac Island, Michigan

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

46. Santa Monica, California

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

47. Space Center, Houston

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

48. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

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

49. Fenway Park, Boston

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

50. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

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

How many destinations can you check off the list? Find out down below:

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The 50 Most Beautiful Places in the U.S.

From magical deserts to gorgeous beaches, these are the most beautiful places in each state.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

The U.S. has an abundance of natural beauty, with diverse landscapes ranging from desert mesas to wooded river valleys and whisper-thin barrier islands to lush and steamy tropics. The scenery along Florida's palm-studded coast is much different than you would see in California's rugged Sierra Nevadas or the fiery canyonlands of the Southwest.

The natural beauty found across the 50 states is so vast and staggering, it's practically impossible to make sense of — though you can't say we didn't try. Here, our totally subjective, state-by-state list of the most beautiful places in the U.S.

Alabama: Magnolia Springs

Mail is delivered by boat — the last year-round river mail delivery in the country — in this small coastal village along the Magnolia River. Dating to the late 1700s, the town is named for its natural assets: gushing springs and a shady canopy of magnolia trees.

Alaska: Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve

Few states seize the popular imagination like Alaska. And at 13 million acres, Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest national park in the U.S., encompasses the overwhelming beauty of the far north. Hiking here leads you through a boreal forest, along glittering glaciers (the Root Glacier Trail goes right on the icy mass; crampons recommended), and up to ridges for breathtaking mountain views — this park contains some of the highest peaks in the country.

Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

The most beautiful place in Arizona has to be the Grand Canyon. Though outrageous natural beauty is found in every corner of the state, from the enchanting Emerald Cove to the sacred Canyon de Chelly, nothing quite compares to the majesty of Arizona's flagship feature.

Within this natural wonder of the world, Havasu Falls (aka Havasupai Falls) contrasts the red rock with its seemingly impossibly turquoise water, while the circular arc of the Colorado River at Horseshoe Bend is not to be missed.

Arkansas: Ozark-St. Francis National Forests

Dominating northwestern Arkansas, the Ozark-St. Francis is an all-season haven rich in things to do. Its ferny oak-hickory woods are dotted with caverns (the tour-friendly Blanchard Springs Caverns has an underground river), grottoes, swimming beaches, campsites, and horseback and ATV trails. Whitaker Point and Sam's Throne are favorites with hikers and rock climbers.

California: Yosemite National Park

Vince Fergus/Travel + Leisure

The nation's third-oldest park has major status with the National Park System, UNESCO, and traveler wish lists around the world. The alpine wonderland draws millions of annual visitors to see its high-country Sierra Nevada beauty, marked by granite domes, towering sequoias, and sheer-drop waterfalls.

Hike or drive up to Glacier Point to behold Yosemite Valley from 7,000 feet; the million-dollar panorama includes Yosemite Falls and the famous Half Dome, which is staggeringly close and rises almost 4,800 feet from the valley floor at a practically vertical pitch.

Colorado: Garden of the Gods

Anyone with even a passing interest in geology or photography, or just knockout natural splendor in general, might find themselves speechless at the sight of Garden of the Gods. Two tips: aim to visit the lofty sandstone formations on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds, and take the Siamese Twins loop for a view of snowy Pikes Peak (inspiration for "America the Beautiful") set in a frame of red rocks.

Connecticut: Connecticut Shore

If you close your eyes and try to imagine the ideal seaside town in New England , your vision is probably not too far off from Old Lyme, Mystic, Old Saybrook, and other coastal Connecticut villages. The small towns strung along the Long Island Sound combine quiet coastal beauty and gobs of old-timey charm (think picture-perfect inns and cozy taverns).

Delaware: Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

You don't have to be an avid birder to treasure this nature preserve. One of the largest surviving tidal salt marshes in the region, it's the boggy domain of bald eagles, snowy egrets, great blue herons, and other wildlife.

Florida: Everglades National Park

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

A UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve, this watery 1.5 million-acre wilderness is home to extraordinary flora and fauna, including American crocodiles, manatees, otters, and wading birds. To see it, join an airboat tour, paddle the mangroves in a canoe or kayak, bike the popular Shark Valley Tram Road, or set out on the flat Anhinga Trail through a seagrass marsh.

Georgia: Cumberland Island

It's hard to imagine a place better suited to peace seekers, bird-watchers, and even history fans than car-free Cumberland Island. Development on the Georgia barrier island is limited to the stately Greyfield Inn , and the rest of the some 36,000 acres are wild, including almost 10,000 acres of protected nature. When you're not strolling the driftwood-strewn beaches, you can kayak the quiet waterways and stop by the Gilded Age-era Dungeness ruins.

Hawaii: Nāpali Coast

The Earth's wrinkles are on spectacular display along Kauai's Nāpali Coast, where sheer, fluted sea cliffs (pali) plummet into the Pacific. The only land access is the strenuous 11-mile Kalalau Trail, which follows the jagged, jade-colored coast's gulches and valleys. The first two miles are a popular day hike; beyond that, a permit is required. This is considered one of the country's most dangerous treks, though helicopter tours are another way to see the exquisite terrain.

Idaho: Sawtooth National Forest

Four mountain ranges and four major rivers collide in Sawtooth National Forest, a 2.1 million-acre great-outdoors paradise whose landscape has remained virtually unchanged since Lewis and Clark explored it in 1805. The forest is home to dozens of 10,000-plus-foot peaks, hundreds of sparkling alpine lakes, and more than 3,000 miles of gushing streams, as well as grassy meadows, sagebrush flats, and pine and aspen woods. Manners of exploration are as vast as the land itself and include backpacking, rafting, skiing, and mountain climbing.

Illinois: Cache River State Natural Area

You might think you're deep in a Louisiana bayou in this bald cypress and tupelo swamp, the northernmost of its kind in the U.S. Explore acres of wetlands by kayak, canoe, or foot via the park's trails and boardwalks. Some of the cypresses you'll see are more than 1,000 years old, with flared bases that exceed 40 feet around.

Indiana: Hemlock Cliffs

For the uninitiated, Indiana is full of surprises. It has the covered bridges and country lanes of Vermont, the sand dunes and lakeshore of Michigan, and fall foliage that could be taken for the Smokies. This box canyon within Hoosier National Forest is a terrific ravine- and waterfall-filled place that you probably wouldn't associate with the heartland.

Iowa: Maquoketa Caves State Park

Avid explorers will be in their element at Maquoketa Caves State Park, where bluffs, miles of trails, and more than a dozen limestone caves await investigation. Some of the caves, such as the 1,100-foot Dancehall, can be walked through upright, while others require serious spelunking. Either way, bring a headlamp.

Kansas: Castle Rock Badlands

This quirky site is off the beaten path — literally. Located on private ranchland accessed by four-wheel drive-demanding dirt roads, Castle Rock is a relic of an inland sea that once covered this part of the continent. The fragile, fossil-rich limestone pinnacles provide a near-shocking change of scenery from the prairie Kansas is known for.

Kentucky: Mammoth Cave

The longest known cave system on the planet is found below the wild hills of south-central Kentucky. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a vast (as in still-being-mapped vast) limestone network of cool caverns, cathedral-like rotundas, and tiny crawl spaces. Lest you think a Mammoth Cave adventure is all below ground, the lushly forested park above it offers hiking and horseback riding, plus canoeing and kayaking on its two rivers.

Louisiana: Wild Azalea Trail

Bar-crawling in Louisiana may come to mind before forest hiking, but the 31-mile-long Wild Azalea Trail showcases some of the state's best scenery: think pine trees, clear creeks, gentle hills, and maybe even wild horses. Time your trek to March or April to see the namesake pale pink flowers blanketing the countryside.

Maine: Acadia National Park

With its rocky shores, crashing surf, and coastal mountain hiking trails, Acadia National Park wins the top spot on Maine's most beautiful places list. Drive to the Cadillac Mountain summit before dawn for the first glimpse of sunrise in the U.S. (from October to March, that is).

Maryland: Weverton Cliffs

Along the famed Appalachian Trail, Weverton Cliffs is a roughly two-mile switchback hike in South Mountain State Park. The reward for your effort? Views from 500 feet above the Potomac that include neighboring Virginia and West Virginia.

Massachusetts: Cape Cod National Seashore

This delicate stretch of federally protected land is rich in natural appeal. It contains marshes, woodlands, wild cranberry bogs, windswept dunes, walking paths, and miles of sandy beaches. This is one of the last remaining blocks of Atlantic coastal pine barrens, a now-rare forest ecosystem teeming with animals and birdlife.

Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Out-of-staters might not equate Michigan with sandy beaches and striking sand dunes, but both are found along the state's largely coastal boundaries — most notably on the 35 miles of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This carved-by-glaciers shoreline is home to a beech-maple forest, scenic hiking and driving, and the immense namesake dunes rising high above Lake Michigan.

Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Drive

The North Shore is a road-tripper's daydream. Many Minnesotans and Midwesterners drive the Lake Superior-adjacent route time and time again, hitting the four-tiered Gooseberry Falls, the precariously perched Split Rock Lighthouse, and the tallest waterfall in the state, High Falls (shared by the U.S. and Canada). And don't miss World's Best Donuts , a very important stop for cinnamon-sugar donuts and deep-fried "skizzles."

Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway

Beauty and blacktop meet on the Natchez Trace, a 444-mile drive that crosses Mississippi like a pageant sash, following a Native American foot trail that goes back millennia. Instead of billboards and interstate exit signs, you'll cruise past cypress swamps and meadows edged by black-eyed Susans and log fences, with lots of opportunities to pull over for picnics and nature walks.

Missouri: Ozark National Scenic Riverways

The spring-fed Current and Jacks Fork rivers anchor this protected pocket of the Ozarks. Swim, canoe, and fish in its crystal-clear waters and explore the area's caves (more than 300 have been discovered so far, some only accessible by boat), trails, natural springs, and historic mills.

Montana: Going-to-the-Sun Road

Take the ride of your life on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile route that climbs above the clouds in Glacier National Park. Looking out the window takes a bit of bravery because of the steep drops, but your prize is jaw-dropping views of alpine valleys, flowing rivers, and fields of wildflowers far below the surrounding peaks and ridgelines. The road crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass (elevation: 6,646 feet), where you can get out and hike the Hidden Lake and Highline trails.

Nebraska: Toadstool Geologic Park

Nebraska's native prairie is thrown into splendid relief at Toadstool, a tract of unusual wind- and water-carved rock formations and vast fossil beds in the Oglala National Grassland. Some rock layers contain tracks of animals long vanished from this part of the world, like rhinos and camels.

Nevada: Red Rock Canyon

Only about 30 minutes from the LED skyline of Las Vegas is Red Rock Canyon, named for its giant cliffs and craggy jumbles of yellow and red sandstone. The hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and scenic driving on offer here are a pretty amazing contrast to the gaming, buffet feasts, and pool parties that define a typical Sin City getaway.

New Hampshire: Kancamagus Highway

Kancamagus Scenic Byway ("the Kanc") may just be New England's prettiest drive. Connecting the small towns of Lincoln and Conway, it meanders by the rocky gorges, waterfalls, swimming holes, campgrounds, and trailheads of White Mountain National Forest. Fall is a lovely time to make the journey, when the foliage colors and moose sightings are at their peak. Just be sure to pack snacks and fuel up — there are no gas stations or businesses for some 30 miles.

New Jersey: Cape May

Cape May's main claim to fame may be its late Victorian-era houses and hotels — some 600 structures in all — but this seaside resort town has non-architectural virtues as well. There are wineries, gardens, biodiverse wetlands, and, of course, end-of-peninsula beaches. Head to west-facing Sunset Beach at twilight for an amazing natural show over Delaware Bay.

New Mexico: Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness

Millions of years of erosion have created this sci-fi, fantasy-like display of pinnacles, spires, and other weirdly wonderful bodies of weathered rock. This high-desert wilderness (read: no marked trails) is essentially the geologic record of a prehistoric coastal swamp where dinosaurs once roamed.

New York: Finger Lakes

Glacial force shaped this beautiful upstate landscape, leaving behind 11 long, skinny, finger-like lakes in its wake. The region is heaven in the summer, when visitors can choose between waterfall hiking (Watkins Glen and Shequaga Falls are popular stops), endless lake activities, and more wineries, vineyards, and breweries than you can shake a stick at.

North Carolina: Outer Banks

This remote stretch of North Carolina coastline has drawn pirates, colonists, and early aviators. Now, it's the realm of beach lovers looking for peace, quiet, white sand, and salty air. Add in the barrier islands' wild dunes (including the East Coast's largest), incredible Outer Banks campgrounds , and multiuse paths — it's actually possible to bike the entire 100-plus-mile length of the region — and you've got a region set for quaint coastal exploration.

North Dakota: Maah Daah Hey Trail

Hike, bike, or hop on a horse and ride through the remote scenery for which North Dakota is known. This 144-mile system is made up of nine sections with various lengths, difficulty ratings, and backdrops, from grassy prairies to dizzying badland buttes. It's a timeless American landscape, and the trail is aptly named for the Mandan phrase: "an area that will be around for a long time."

Ohio: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

You can pretend you're in Victorian London in the Crystal Palace-evoking glass greenhouse that is the cornerstone of this botanical landmark. Its biomes and gardens might transport you to the desert, rain forest, and even the Himalayas.

Oklahoma: Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

Native grasslands, the ecosystem perhaps most powerfully entwined with our national identity, are on the decline. This protected preserve is the largest sweep of tallgrass prairie in the world. Here, you can see the American plains as they looked centuries ago, with herds of bison (about 2,200 of the shaggy-haired beasts roam freely) and swaths of purple prairie clover.

Oregon: Crater Lake

Crater Lake is evidence of the tectonic activity that's eternally shaping the planet. A long-ago eruption formed a giant caldera, which filled with rain and snow over time. The gradual result is a deep lake (the deepest in the country, in fact) with intense blue waters and fantastic clarity. Crater Lake's mountain setting atop the Cascade Range makes it even more hypnotic.

Pennsylvania: Appalachian National Scenic Trail at the Delaware Water Gap

The famous Delaware Water Gap area spans 70,000 acres of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, yet its namesake point is where the river carves through the rugged Kittatinny Mountain. See the Gap from Appalachian National Scenic Trail (the AT, to in-the-know hikers), which offers a clear view from Mount Minsi.

Rhode Island: Block Island

Fieldstone walls hemming in emerald-green fields, Victorian buildings, and dramatic cliffs lashed by the Atlantic define Block Island. You could be forgiven for thinking you've been dropped on a distant British shore. Mosey around the island by bike or moped, visit the two lighthouses, and pop into a classic New England eatery — we like Block Island Oyster Bar and Grill for lobster bisque and daily-harvested oysters.

South Carolina: Hilton Head Island Bike Trails

Wide beaches may be a big draw, but Hilton Head locals and vacationers alike praise the island's bike trail system for low-key cruising (and for bypassing road traffic, which can be intense). The 64-mile, well-maintained network is easy to navigate and takes you to some of Hilton Head Island's best spots, like Sea Pines Forest Preserve. A bike ride is especially lovely in the late afternoon, as the sun begins to set over the marshes.

South Dakota: Badlands National Park

Between the steep buttes, crystal-lined caves, granite spires, prairies, and ponderosa pine forests, speculating the most beautiful South Dakota place is hopeless. But the fossil-packed landscape of Badlands National Park must come close. Here, meadows meet whimsically eroded canyons and vibrant, layered hills. Drive Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) and the perimeter route around the South Unit. Bonus points if you time your visit to the south-facing Pinnacles Overlook for sunset.

Tennessee: Cherokee National Forest

Lovers of the outdoors have their work cut out for them in Tennessee, especially its eastern edge. The 650,000-acre Cherokee National Forest has something for adventurers of every sort, whether you're looking to tackle a section of the Appalachian Trail or other backcountry treks, whitewater raft down Pigeon River, pitch a tent next to Watauga Lake, or witness the dazzling rhododendron summer bloom in the Roan Highlands.

Texas: Guadalupe Mountains

These mountains in windswept West Texas are the exposed tips of the 400-mile Capitan Reef, one of the best-preserved ancient reef systems in the world. Explore more than 80 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks through the Chihuahuan Desert to hardcore hikes to the "top of Texas" (a.k.a. Guadalupe Peak, the state's highest point).

Utah: Arches National Park

We'll confess to paralysis by indecision here, such is the vast choice on offer (see: Grand Staircase-Escalante, Monument Valley, Bryce and Big Cottonwood canyons). Yet surreal Arches National Park gets the nod. Its natural sandstone arches, tall cliffs, and honeycomb rocks are like a 65-million-year chronicle of our planet. The scenery will leave you breathless — as will a stamina-requiring Fiery Furnace hike (ranger guidance or individual permit required).

Vermont: Mad River Valley

In the 1950s, the snowy ski resorts of Mad River Valley pulled the likes of the Kennedys and Hollywood VIPs. Its creviced mountains and charming small towns still make it a prime destination for all manner of outdoor and simple-pleasure pursuits, like hiking, maple syrup- and cheese-tasting, shopping for crafts, and seeking local swimming holes, to name a few. Even just cruising Route 100 is a delight.

Virginia: Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway's "America's Favorite Drive" tagline isn't just a stroke of marketing genius. The 469-mile drive (shared by Virginia and North Carolina) takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in the southeastern U.S. One example? Natural Bridge, a 215-foot-tall "overpass" spanning 90 feet to connect solid limestone cliffs. Don't forget good hiking shoes and your phone charger because there are hundreds of trails and photo ops.

Washington: Hurricane Ridge

This mountainous area within Olympic National Park packs the best features of Washington state into one enchantingly alpine package: snowy peaks, glassy lakes, grazing black-tailed deer in steep meadows, and thick evergreen forests.

West Virginia: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

A highlight of West Virginia is the seemingly endless reserve of spectacular river ravines and mountain views. New River Gorge gets a special mention for its iconic bridge. With a 3,030-foot steel span that's nearly 90 stories high, it will make your heart skip a beat.

Wisconsin: Apostle Islands

There's so much to explore on the 20-plus islands that make up this archipelago. Hike through the wilderness, hop in a kayak, scuba dive to shipwrecks and underwater sea caves (Lake Superior really does look and feel more like an ocean), and explore the lighthouses.

Wyoming: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Even in a state that's wall-to-wall with magnificent scenery, this site is a high point. The deep river gorge is a rumbling mass of natural beauty, with roaming wildlife (bison, elk, and even a grizzly crossing may make traffic come to a standstill), plunging waterfalls, and canyon walls made colorful by iron compounds.

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the USA

Written by Lana Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

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

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

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

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

1. Grand Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions at the Grand Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

Read More: Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on United States

50 Most Beautiful Places In The US To Visit In Your Lifetime

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 16, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Looking for your next adventure or travel destination in the United States?

With so many states, countless different kinds of activities, and endless landmarks scattered throughout the land, it can be hard to pick between them.

But if what you’re looking for are beautiful locations that ensnare the senses, we may be able to help.

Here are the 50 most beautiful places to visit in the US.

Table of Contents

1. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking paradise for those who love the outdoors.

Spanning almost 3,500 square miles, this park is a trove of steep canyons, incredible mountains, gorgeous waterfalls, and fascinating geysers.

It is also populated with teeming wildlife, such as elk, grizzly bears, and buffalo.

On top of that, it is home to the rainbow-sheened Grand Prismatic Spring, which is deeper than 10 stories and the third largest spring on the planet.

Plus, despite its pull of over 4 million tourists on an annual basis, it’s such a large place that you’ll rarely run into anyone else.

So not only is it easily one of the most beautiful places in the US, but it’s also a great spot for quiet enjoyment.

2. Maroon Bells, Colorado

Maroon Bells

Aspen, Colorado is home to the stunning and gorgeous Maroon Bells, which earn their name from the majestic appearance cast by two peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

Beneath that grand sight, you’ll be able to enjoy the crystal clear Maroon Lake, which is surrounded by lush fields full of colorful, vibrant wildflowers.

The Maroon Bells are easily in the top few most photographed attractions in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.

Everywhere you turn, you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most beautiful places in the US.

3. Watkins Glen State Park, New York

Watkins Glen State Park

The Watkins Glen State Park is located in upstate New York, within the Finger Lakes area, and it is named after the nearest town.

It may be relatively small compared to many more famous parks at 778 acres, but it is home to a gorge that holds a grand total of 19 gorgeous waterfalls.

In addition, this park contains the Rainbow Bridge and Falls, which appear absolutely fantastical, as though ripped right out of a riveting fantasy tale.

There are also plenty of places to set up camp if desired.

4. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a minimalist attraction located along the border of Utah and Arizona.

In spite of its simplicity, this red-sand desert may just be one of the most beautiful places you will ever see!

A 17-mile Valley Drive leads into the area, and you can spot multiple sandstone buttes that make for amazing pictures.

This valley will make you feel like you are part of an Old Western movie, set in the Wild, Wild West.

John Ford’s Point is a great way to look over the scenery, allowing you to feast your eyes on the Mittens buttes.

5. Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake is an arresting body of magnificent blue water that rests peacefully within Mount Mazama.

Spanning 53 square kilometers and 2000 feet deep, this incredible caldera was left behind after an explosion more than 7 millennia ago.

It is the deepest of all similar lakes in all of the USA.

Today, the lake provides awe-inspiring reflections of its surroundings, including the pristine, white cliffs topped with snow that flank it.

You can go scuba diving in its enticing, crystal clear depths, or simply enjoy the view.

6. Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls

New York is home to many amazing attractions, but Niagara Falls is arguably one of those that everyone will tell you not to miss.

It’s right on the border between the USA and Canada, and it’s a must-see attraction, for sure.

These falls earn over 30 million visitors on an annual basis, and it’s no surprise!

When you see all that water – six million cubic feet of it in total! – plummeting downwards at each minute of every day, you’ll be in awe, too.

7. Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National Park

You wouldn’t think that a basin called “ Death Valley ” would be one of the most beautiful places in the US.

After all, it is located below sea level, and it is easily the hottest and driest spot in all of America.

However, it is also home to Zabriskie Point, which is an incredible peak that provides an optimal viewing location to watch the sunset.

In addition, contrary to its name, Death Valley actually teems with life in many of its seasons.

Wildflowers sprout gorgeously after storms, snow frosts cliff tops in the winter, and small oases provide life.

It’s a surprisingly prepossessing place for one so morbidly named!

Planning a trip to California soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in California !

8. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a highway, which may surprise you, as most roads can’t be considered beautiful places.

But this highway spans 469 miles in length, over multiple countries throughout North Carolina and Virginia, and offers some of the most spectacular views in the country.

Driving down this highway will allow you to take in the stunning Appalachian mountains, including multiple valleys and peaks such as the Peaks of Otter and the famous Roanoke Mountain.

If you like, you can even get off the road and go down a hiking trail of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park or the Shenandoah National Park.

Planning a road trip around Virginia? Check out our list of things to do in Virginia !

9. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is an old city that is home to multiple fascinating sites.

Its streets are paved with cobblestones and flanked by old buildings like museums and churches that are simply stuffed with history.

Downtown, you’ll find one of the biggest National Historic Landmark districts in the US, which also connect to the riverfront and the coast.

If there are particular areas you would like to visit, look no further than Forsyth Park, built in the 1840s and fitted with a stupendous fountain, romantic benches, and plenty of iconic oaks covered in moss for an even more calming aesthetic.

Up for something more spooky? Take a trip to the Bonaventure Cemetery!

Planning a trip to Savannah soon? Be sure to check out our list detailing the best things to do in Savannah, GA !

10. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon, known also as Corkscrew Canyon, is almost surreal in its beauty.

Located in Navajo territory very close by to Lake Powell, not too much hiking is required to reach this spot, which many consider the most beautiful and majestic canyon in America.

Sandstone walls and arches make up the canyon, glowing in vibrant hues of orange, red, and even pink under the streaming sunlight.

The wavy rock formations provide an otherworldly aesthetic that is sure to make you gasp in awe.

It’s no wonder that this is the state’s most photographed attraction; it’s one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see!

11. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park

The Grand Teton National Park may just be home to the most beautiful mountain that the United States has to offer!

Located not far from Yellowstone in Wyoming , this park covers a whopping 310,000 acres of land and is named after the superb Teton mountain range, which is practically ancient, with areas reaching 9 million years of age.

Countless hiking trails allow you to explore this national park in all its glory.

Appreciate nature through unique wildlife, some of which is prehistoric, and gaze in awe and wonder over clear bodies of water, formed by glaciers over the years.

12. The Wave, Arizona/Utah

Arizona is full of amazing sandstone rock formations, and one that easily ranks among beautiful places is the Wave.

Located in the Coyote Bluffs, found in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness bordering Utah, these rocks fall on Navajo territory and can be tricky to get to due to rough terrain.

If you do brave out the hard trails, you’ll be privy to the marvelous formations of sandstone forged way back in the Jurassic period.

It’s a rather exclusive trip, too – just 20 individuals are granted permission to travel to this scenic spot every day. If you’re lucky, you’ll be among them!

13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia

Love history? Philadelphia is the place for you!

It may not be the typical idea of the most beautiful places, but it is the only city in all of America to be named a UNESCO World Heritage city.

Its rich cultural and colonial background overflows with intrigue.

Once the US capital, this city hosts famous must-see spots such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, and more.

Of course, Philadelphia is also renowned for its delicious Philly cheese steaks, and there’s even more scrumptious food to be found in its markets.

This is also one of the best vacation destinations for those on a budget!

14. Turnip Rock, Michigan

Turnip Rock

Turnip Rock isn’t exactly the most famous of attractions in the United States, but that’s due to lack of knowledge, not lack of magnificence.

It’s a very small island that you can spot from Lake Huron’s shorelines in Port Austin, Michigan.

This island is appropriately named due to its slim lower portion that extends out of the water, gradually becoming thicker and wider as it rises into the sky – resembling the shape of a turnip!

It’s certainly an unusual geological sight, and well worth the visit via kayak.

Planning to visit Michigan? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Michigan !

15. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park located in South Dakota may sound foreboding, but in reality, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the US.

It is famous for holding an extremely rich and diverse fossil bed that is definitely one of the best that earth has to offer.

On top of that, Badlands National Park is packed with incredible rock formations that look stunning at all times of the day with their differently shaded stripes.

There are also grasslands if you’re more for wildlife, where you can spot all the prairie dogs herding sheep for a calm, serene experience.

16. Multnomah Falls, Oregon

Multnomah Falls

Many people would consider Multnomah Falls as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the nation.

It is part of the Columbia River Gorge in Portland and is just one of 50 alluring falls in the collection – but it stands out for good reason.

Reaching 611 feet in height, which makes it the tallest waterfall in the state, Multnomah Falls is double tiered and cascades beautifully down in front between two hiking trails.

You can watch it from the convenient viewing platform or go on a hike above it across a connecting bridge.

17. Willow City Bluebonnets, Texas

Willow City Bluebonnets

If you love wildflowers, head down to Texas Hill Country to feast your eyes upon the delightful expanses of bright Bluebonnets along Willow City Loop in Gillespie County.

They bloom in full force every April, and you can walk along a designated Bluebonnet trail to truly get the most out of this special floral occurrence.

Even the drive to the location can be incredibly scenic when you go at the right time.

It’s a lovely, laid-back type of trip that you can take if you’re looking for some relaxation.

Visting other parts of Texas? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Austin , things to do in Galveston & things to do in Houston !

18. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai island

Kauai looks like a place right out of a fantasy book. It is an island paradise that is the oldest of all habited Hawaiian islands.

It home to such beautiful wonders as the 6,175-acre Nā Pali Coast State Park, which is packed with hiking trails, emerald green mountains, and stunning views, and the 173-foot high Wailua Falls.

Along the Nā Pali coast, you will also find the cascading, remote Honopu Beach, Hawaii, which is easily the most attractive of all beaches in the US.

There’s little to dislike about a Hawaii island vacation!

Planning a vacation to Kauai? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Kauai !

19. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park

The Glacier National Park located in Montana provides some of the most incredible views that you’ll be privy to in America.

It sits neatly on the border between Canada and the US, and it is exceedingly large in size, spanning more than 1 million acres in total.

This national park has no shortage of amazing things to see.

It is home to portions of mountain ranges as well as over a hundred named lakes, and it also serves as a habitat for hundreds of animal species and thousands of plant species.

As a cherry on top, this park is also much less crowded than many other famed ones!

20. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

White Sands National Monument

This incredibly unique location can be found in the north of the Chihuahuan Desert.

The White Sands National Monument consists of a reaching, widespread expanse of white gypsum crystal sand dunes, backdropped by a picturesque blue sky.

Though the sight of white sand as far as the eye can see isn’t the most exciting trip for some, this tranquil environment is so individual and one-of-a-kind that it is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.

Bask in the calm peace, feel the soft, warm sand beneath your toes, and marvel at the vastness of this monument.

Doing a road trip around New Mexico? You’ll love our lists detailing the best things to do in Santa Fe  & the best places to visit in New Mexico !

21. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

There are plenty of reasons to visit the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park , which sits on the Tennessee and North Carolina border.

It is packed with hiking routes ripe with emerald greenery, waterfalls and bodies of water, and pretty wildflowers ready for photos.

Plus, there are many great stops along the way, such as Clingmans Dome, which contains an observation tower resting on top of the area’s highest peak for breathtaking views.

There’s also Cades Cove, which is a quiet little valley that feels like a calm, quiet place lost in historical times.

Planning a trip to Tennessee soon? Check out our list of things to do in Tennessee !

22. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake that may just be the most famous of its kind in the country.

It is an alpine body of water located in the mountain range of Sierra Nevada. It is so transparently clear that you can see right down to its 70-foot depths!

There’s an air of regality about the lake – likely due to its age.

It is first believed to have formed during the ice ages, and most of its modern appearance has been around for two million years.

23. The Golden Gate Bridge, California

Golden Gate Bridge

It may be man-made, but there’s a reason that the Golden Gate Bridge is such an iconic landmark.

Towering over the world at almost 750 feet tall and connecting land across the Golden Gate strait with a 4,200 feet length, it is one of the Wonders of the Modern world and is constantly touched up by a staff of 38 painters who maintain its impressive color.

It’s safe to say that this bridge is imposing, but its behemoth size is just one of its attractions.

It is an absolute marvel of engineering and is truly an awe to behold.

Guided bike tours and cruises allow for up-close-and-personal glimpses of this monumental structure, and of course, you can simply drive across it!

Visiting San Francisco soon? You’ll love our list of things to do in San Francisco !

24. The Palouse, Idaho/Oregon/Washington

The Palouse

The Palouse is so large that it covers three states, and it was all formed naturally.

Appearing as rolling hills made from loess, which is a kind of sediment that forms from dust and silt that is blown by the wind over thousands and thousands of years.

In spring, barley and wheat are grown throughout this prairie, creating a whimsical and fantastical appearance of bright green.

It’s a great vacation spot for those seeking a little peace of mind and relaxation.

25. Mendenhall Glacier Caves, Alaska

Mendenhall Glacier Caves

The Mendenhall Glacier Caves take a while to get to, but they are incredibly rewarding and very much worth the trip through 12 miles of caverns.

The overhead ceilings are tinted a glowing, luminescent blue thanks to the ice and the reflection from the water beneath. It’s something that has to be seen to be believed.

Unfortunately, due to climate change, these caves and the surrounding ice of its preceding caverns are beginning to melt.

As such, it’s the kind of trip that you’ll want to make sooner rather than later, before one of the most beautiful places in the US is lost to the world.

26. Haleakala National Park, Hawaii

Haleakala National Park

There’s no shortage of beautiful places in Hawaii, and the Haleakala National Park is one of them.

It is situated on Maui , an island within the state, and its name literally translates to “House of the Sun”.

The park can easily be divided into two different types of trips. The first, and more renowned, is the Haleakala Volcano’s summit.

This dormant volcano is intimidating in its size, and an arduous upwards climb will lead you to its peak, where you can enjoy a staggering view, or rest in the observatory or visitor’s center.

The second portion of the park is the Kipahulu coast, which makes for a perfect beach getaway.

Going to Hawaii for a vacation? Don’t miss our awesome list of things to do in Hawaii !

27. Big Sur, California

If you’re a sucker for golden stretches of sand, basking sunsets and sunrises tinged orange and vermillion, and deep azure waters perfect for swimming, the Big Sur is a great place to go.

This coastal area is full of charming spots to explore and enjoy, ranging from the graceful architectural magnitude of the Bixby Bridge to the enchanting, picturesque McWay Falls.

There’s also the stunning, quaint Pfeiffer Beach, which is lesser known but no less delightful with soft sand and attractive rock formations to see.

28. Carlsbad Cavern, New Mexico

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

In the Chihuahuan Desert lie more than 100 limestone caves, and one of them is none other than the Carlsbad Cavern .

Spikes hang from the ceiling in droves and clusters, and its winding rocky walls are perfect for spelunkers and adventurers.

The way you choose to go is up to you. You can go in through the beautiful, conventional entrance, or you can begin 750 feet underground.

Either way, you’re in for some enticing exploration!

Traveling to Albuquerque, NM soon? Check out our awesome list of things to do in Albuquerque !

29. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places in California .

It spans 748,436 acres and contains plenty of disarming visions, ranging from green groves of imposing sequoias, rushing streams flowing from cascading waterfalls, cliffs shining with granite, and countless mountains stretching on the horizon.

There’s much to see in the area, including the glacial Yosemite Valley which is surrounded by viridescent pines.

It sinks up to 3,500 feet deep and measures 7.5 miles long. You can also spot Yosemite Falls nearby.

30. Thor’s Well, Oregon

Oregon’s Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well is located in Yachats, a small, remote town, and is situated very close to the popular Cape Perpetua.

Why is it one of the most beautiful places in the US?

Well, it has a hint of mystery to it due to its optical illusion.

Essentially, if you look straight into it, it appears to be bottomless, though it is actually quite shallow at just 20 feet in depth.

At high tide, Thor’s Well becomes more dangerous, but also all the more breathtaking.

You can easily and safely catch a glimpse of it in action through a viewing platform, but we recommend you wear water-resistant clothing!

While you’re there, you can also enjoy the coastal elegance of Cape Perpetua itself.

Planning a road trip to Oregon soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Oregon !

31. Angel Oak, South Carolina

Angle Oak Tree

This is one of those beautiful places that is designated a must-visit location because of one single, incredible centerpiece: the Angel Oak .

It is a magnificent, grand oak tree aged between 400 and 500 years, and its thick, twisted branches and opulent leaves extend outwards to cover over 17,200 square feet!

The Angel Oak is located in Johns Island near Charleston in South Carolina – which is, notably, also a fantastic tourist destination.

It’s relaxing, full of beaches, packed with historical sites, and has an enjoyable mild climate.

So after a great picnic beneath the oak, you’ll have lots more to do!

Planning a trip to Charleston soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Charleston, SC !

32. Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park

The Arches National Park looks like a scene out of a movie.

Erosion from millions and millions of years has led to the creation of more than 2,000 arches, each fashioned naturally from sandstone.

It is worth noting that environmental change has caused 43 of these arches to fall to time, which means officials warn against getting too close.

Still, the sight of these bright, orange structures is well worth the extra caution, and you’ll want to plan your trip soon to catch as many of them as possible in full glory.

33. Monument Rocks, Kansas

Monument Rocks / Seraph1888 [ CC BY-SA 4.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

These pale, craggy formations rise 70 feet into the air, and it is believed that they were formed in ancient times – nearly 80 million years in the past.

The Monument Rocks were the very first National Natural Landmark in all of the United States.

As such, if you’re a fan of visiting the most beautiful places, these rocks have to top your list.

34. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park covers 49,075 acres of land and is often overlooked, but it’s a must-see location with plenty of gorgeous features.

Teeming with rare wildlife of all kinds, the park has its share of coastline shores and contains a wealth of historical significance thanks to Native American inhabitance.

While you’re here, you can make the arduous hike up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain and receive the reward of a picturesque scene that mixes the stunning seaboard with rugged, rocky terrain.

You can also take a trip to the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse for a truly exquisite view.

Planning a visit to Maine soon? Check out our awesome list of things to do in Maine  and things to do in Portland, Maine !

35. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans

New Orleans is yet another gorgeous historical city that is full of heritage and culture.

Bask in delicious soul foods, sweet pastries, and suave, smooth blues and jazz.

Better yet, snoop around trinket stores and be fascinated with the charming but dark superstitious paraphernalia, and indulge.

You can also take a trip down Bourbon Street – and the rest of New Orleans’ incredible French Quarter.

It’s one of the kinds of beautiful places that will charm and entice you with its ancient architecture, rich teeming courtyards, and fascinating background.

Planning a trip to New Orleans? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in New Orleans !

36. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park

The Big Bend National Park in Rio Grande is an absolute wonder of untamed wildlife, spanning over much of the Chihuahuan Desert and all of the Chisos mountains.

Partially drawing near to the border of Mexico, this national park has so many different experiences to offer.

You can go on a road trip down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, relax in the Langford Hot Springs, view the Sam Nail Ranch’s broken-down husk, and enjoy sights of limestone formations across the Rio Grande.

There’s so much to do that you may just need to come back again!

Looking for things to do in Texas ? Don’t miss out on our lists of things to do in San Antonio  & things to do in Dallas !

37. Old Man’s Cave, Ohio

Old Man’s Cave

Any location with such a mysterious name is sure to be one of those beautiful places you can’t ignore.

Old Man’s Cave provides some of the most panoramic hiking trails that you may ever see.

There are 5 main areas to choose from in the Hocking Hills State Park, which is where Old Man’s Cave lies in wait.

All of them offer countless waterfalls, gorges, and more glimpses into the beauty of nature.

Planning to visit Ohio? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Ohio !

38. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park awaits in the Gulf of Mexico, less than 70 miles west to Florida’s famous Key West .

The park contains seven islands, with the main one holding the 19th century-built Fort Jefferson.

Throughout all the islands, you can scuba dive and snorkel (or just swim) around the deep blue waters.

As you go, you’ll be treated to many types of sea life and nearly growing coral reefs.

Do note that you can only get to this park via seaplane or boat!

Going to Florida soon? See the best places to visit in Florida !

39. Outer Banks, North Carolina

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks are composed of a collection of barrier islands that string outwards from Virginia and North Carolina .

This area spans over 200 miles and has plenty of unique points, and it’s the perfect seaside getaway.

This picturesque landmark is also the site of the enchanting Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, which is made from brick and is the tallest of its kind across the USA.

Its white and black spiral aesthetic is sure to capture hearts. You can also view the sunset from the well-known, lovely Jockey’s Ridge.

40. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

Skagit Valley Tulip Fields

These farmlands are must-sees in the spring – namely in April, which is the absolute best time to take a trip to this Pacific Northwest locale.

That’s when all the bright, vibrant tulips are in full bloom, and when you can enjoy the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

If you visit at the right time, you’ll get to see not just tulips in all sorts of pretty, warm colors, but also countless other flowers that add to the gorgeousness of the fields.

During the festival, you can taste wine, enjoy strolling through gardens, sample barbecues, and feast your eyes on art exhibits.

41. Oneonta Gorge, Oregon

Oneonta Gorge

If you like your nature experiences to boast only the best greenery and fauna that the world has to offer, then look no further than Oneonta Gorge.

The trail may be short at just 2.7 miles through and around this gorge, but that only makes it all the more enticing for first-time hikers – or those who just want a less tiring trip.

Lush woodland fauna combines strikingly with aquatic greens in Oneonta Gorge, making it look like you leaped into a storybook.

It’s the perfect shortstop that’s impossible to forget.

42. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park

The Bryce Canyon National Park ’s name is rather deceiving.

Instead of containing a canyon, what it does have are stone pinnacles that were formed naturally over time due to erosion from the stream and weathering during winter’s frost.

Multiple points throughout this park offer a stupendous view, but your best bet is Bryce Point in the southern region.

From here, you’ll get prime viewing of all the amazing stone formations, known as hoodoos, scattered about the area.

43. Ladew Topiary Gardens, Maryland

Ladew Topiary Gardens / Mark Peters / flickr

The Ladew Topiary Gardens are, believe it or not, completely non-profit.

They feature expertly carved and crafted hedges, topiary, trees, and well-kept expanses of green garden space.

They’re open for visitors between April and October.

These gardens date back to the 1930s, originally set up by the fox-hunting Harvey S. Ladew.

This is why lots of topiaries showcase animal figures, particularly those related to hunting such as foxes, dogs, horses, and even their riders.

Visiting Maryland soon? See the fun things to do in Maryland before you go!

44. Hamilton Pool, Texas

Hamilton Pool / Trey Perry [ CC BY 3.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

It first came into being when an underground river’s dome caved in, and now, it waits for swimmers and divers behind a bit of forest.

This pool has a refreshing waterfall that still pours over into it from the leftover overhang, and within the pool, you can spot greenery all the way down to its crystal clear depths.

You’ll feel like you’ve been born anew after just one revitalizing dip in Hamilton Pool!

45. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park

The Zion National Park spans 146,597 acres and is packed with amazing sights and experiences, ranging from canyons to waterfalls, from rivers to trails, and from cliffs to monoliths and more.

The view from Angels Landing allows prime viewing over the Zion Canyon, as well as additional alluring views.

The Virgin River provides a picturesque and exciting trail for those who enjoy a good hike. The campgrounds offer a truly immersive wilderness experience.

There’s simply so much to do in this park!

46. Colorado River, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend

The Colorado River flows into Mexico from its start in the Rocky Mountains, and it is home to one of the most picture-perfect structures in the world: Horseshoe Bend.

The rest of the river is dreamy enough, but Horseshoe Bend truly takes the cake.

Situated near to several other gorgeous must-see spots in Arizona , Horseshoe Bend is a memorable landmark in Colorado River.

Apart from that, you can enjoy getting back to your roots with a nature-filled exploration across the beautiful area.

47. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado

Great Sand Dunes National Park

The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve boast incredible sand dunes that are actually the highest in all of the north continent – most notably, the Star Dune, which towers above all.

You can explore the Sangre de Cristo mountains by driving along the Medano Pass Primitive Road.

Take a trip at the right time to be able to lounge at the Medano Creek and its beach, or simply hike across the trails to see the Medano Lake alongside other wonders: like different forests teeming with unique sights and special wetlands that are unlike any other.

Visiting Colorado soon? Don’t miss out on our list of things to do in Colorado !

48. Antelope Valley, California

Antelope Valley

Antelope Valley calls the Mojave Desert Grassland its home.

While you don’t often think of deserts as particularly fertile land, visit in the spring to have that idea turned on its head!

Over a whopping 1,780 acres, a giant poppy reserve makes up the valley.

In the right season, these poppies bloom with all their might, revealing bright, dashing orange visuals that take over the entire area in a fiery burst of spirited florals.

There’s no end in sight for fields and fields of poppies that will have you waxing poetic as you languish in their midst.

49. Kenai Fjords, Alaska

Kenai Fjords National Park

The Kenai Fjords are largely taken up by an impressive forty shining glaciers that easily swarf their surroundings.

They make for what might just be the most dazzling fjord in all of the United States – and it’s fitting that they would be in Alaska !

Apart from the glaciers, there’s lots of unique, regional wildlife that you can see.

Look to the skies to spot bald eagles and peregrine falcons, and out to the seas to spot seals and even humpback whales.

Plan your trip soon, though, as global warming is reducing many of the glaciers that make the Kenai Fjords so magnificent.

50. New York City, New York

New York City

Sure, New York City is a little unconventional when you think of the most beautiful places in the US, but there’s a reason it’s on our list!

It’s a shopper’s paradise, and it’s home to the lush Central Park.

It spans 843 acres and is packed with gorgeous gardens and lawns, plus plenty of regularly updated paths and lochs!

Head down to New York City in the winter to see the incredible sights – blinding Christmas lights as far as the eye can see, a gargantuan Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center, and the stunning and heartwarming show, The Nutcracker, performed by the New York City Ballet.

Enjoy entertainment, sights, sounds, tastes, and shopping in this bustling metropolis.

Start Planning Your Bucket List

As you can see, there are plenty of stunning places to visit in the USA.

From breathtaking valleys to sunkissed lakes and magnificent canyons, you cannot go wrong to choose some of these beautiful places in the USA to your bucket list.

Sunday 5th of November 2023

These recommendations are amazing for visiting amazing places in the USA! I especially appreciate the content. With Many thanks.

UponArriving

40 Places to See in The Western United States (Vacations, Landmarks) [2023]

This article will show you 40 (stunning) places to see in the Western United States.

These are pretty stunning destinations perfect for vacations, road trips, and for anybody interested in discovering these landmarks and points of interest.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Table of Contents

1. Moaning Cave –  Moaning Cavern Park (California)

Moaning Cave sounds like the title to an Indie film you’d probably want to avoid, but don’t be deceived. Discovered (modernly) during the Gold Rush, this cavern earned its name from the moaning sound that echoes throughout the cave. You can’t deny the intrigue of caverns, especially ones that emit moaning echoes. If you’re in the Gold Country area then try to stop by.

2. Paint Mines – Paint Mines Interpretative Park (Colorado)

Most people think about the Rocky Mountains when they think of Colorado. Here’s a lesser known spot worth your time called “Paint Mines.” This park is a cluster of hoodoos and sand-capped spires of all colors.

There’s an array of wildlife here, too. Everything from horned toads, mule deers, falcons, and coyotes call this place home. Definitely look into visiting.

3. Horsetail Fall in February – Yosemite National Park (California)

Ever seen a “fire fall?”

Better yet, have you ever even heard of a fire fall?

You’ll only be able to catch a glimpse of this elusive wonder at Yosemite National Park two weeks out of the year in February when the sun shines on the fall just right at sunset. But if you’ve ever wondered what a waterfall looks like when lit on fire, now you know.

4. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – Yellowstone National Park ( Wyoming)

Everybody knows about the Grand Canyon. And everybody knows about Yellowstone . But not everyone knows that there’s a “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone” and that it is one of the most stunning places in the country.

5. Kanarra Creek – Zion National Park (Utah)

Now that Antelope Canyon is growing in fame and rightfully so, I felt the need to showcase another stunning slot canyon, Kanarra Creek. Unlike Antelope Canyon, you’ll actually have to do some hiking through the Zion backcountry to get to this picturesque location.

6. Hidden Lake – Glacier National Park (Montana)

Really, the entire national park of Glacier could be put on this list because so few people know about the many peaks, lakes, and (you guessed it) glaciers that make up this spectacular park. I figured Hidden Lake exemplified the unknown beauty of Glacier, in both its name and its scenery.

7. Rialto Beach – Olympic National Park (Washington)

Standing tall and shaped like the Pacific’s version of the “Burj Al Arab” (the sailboat skyscraper) in Dubai, this iconic beach is a photographer’s paradise. And as the caption below suggests, Rialto Beach may be the best “Kelped” secret of the Pacific Northwest coastline.

8. Painted Hills – John Day Fossil Bed National Monument (Oregon)

Here’s a scene right out of a Dr. Seuss book except it’s real life. I’ve seen a similar sight in Asia but who knew we had this here in the United States? The painted hills are a part of a larger area of the John Day Fossil Bed where you can find fossils of horses, camels, and even rhinoceroses. And by “you” I mean skilled paleontologists, of course.

9. The Subway – Zion National Park (Utah)

Going to or from the Subway, you’ll dive through emerald waters, rappel through multiple slot canyons, scramble over boulders the size of houses, and pass dinosaur tracks. Oh yeah, and you’ll catch a glimpse of this wonder.

10. Black Canyon of the Gunnison – Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison sounds like a place straight out of a fantasy novel and it looks like one, too. It’s one of the steepest mountain descents in the world and the photos here will leave you with no doubt of that fact.

11. Zabriskie Point – Death Valley National Park (California)

Here’s yet another location you’ll have to see with your own eyes to believe it’s actually earth you’re looking at. See the tiny black things on the left that look like penguins? They’re actually humans — that’s how vast this unique landscape is.

12. White Pocket – Arizona

White Pocket’s not really white but actually full of brilliant, vibrant color… and dragons, too.

13. Palouse Falls –  Palouse Falls State Park (Washington)

Not quite a hidden gem if you live in the Pacific Northwest, but Palouse Falls is a destination many outside of the photography and hiking world have not heard about. Not to mention most people can’t believe to find out this spot is in Washington state and not somewhere in the Southwest.

14. Theodore Roosevelt National Park – North Dakota

For those who always ask what there is to do in North Dakota, well now you have an answer. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is full of badlands just waiting to be explored. The park is also known for its abundant wildlife, which include feral horses, golden eagles, and elk among many others.

15. Hidden Lake – North Cascades National Park (Washington)

Another hidden lake makes the list. This one will take a few miles of hiking to get to capture the view but as you can see it would be worth it.

16. Cathedral Lake – Yosemite National Park (California)

While this point may be known to frequent hikers to Yosemite, it’s still a destination constantly overlooked by many for other destinations inside Yosemite Valley that are easier to access. If you’re planning on making it here be sure you to apply for a permit early or take your chances with first come, first serve.

17. Tent Rocks – Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument (New Mexico)

I know what you’re thinking. These cones look like they were shaped by volcanic eruptions that likely occurred 6 to 7 million years ago. Well, you’re right. Stop by Tent Rocks to witness the artistic side of mother nature if you’re ever in the Santa Fe, New Mexico area.

Related: 18 Best National Parks in New Mexico

18. McWay Falls – Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park/Big Sur (California)

Can it get more beautiful than a waterfall (or “tidefall”) pouring into turquoise waters on a California beach at dusk? I don’t think it can. I really don’t think it can….

Okay, so maybe it can….

19. Goosenecks – Goosenecks State Park ( Utah)

A quick stop allows you to see this triple entrenched meander located close to Mexican Hat and not far from Monument Valley. Just be aware that your GPS on your cell phone will sometimes do some funky things in this region of the country. Make sure you’re actually headed to Goosenecks State Park and not an abandoned gas station 50 miles out of the way (not that it ever happened to me).

20. Garden of the Gods – Colorado

Visit the Garden of the Gods National Landmark and you will be blown away by the stark contrast between the Garden’s bright orange and the surrounding terrain. There are tons of photo ops around this place and it is easily accessible by car. Don’t miss it if you’re in the Colorado Springs area; it’s a perfect road trip pit-stop.

21. Mono Lake – California

In 2010, scientists thought they’d discovered a new “alien” DNA here, and can anyone really blame them? Just look at the formations happening here. Now, I’m pretty sure that “discovery” has been debunked, but I’m still holding out hope for aliens.

22. Bisti Badlands – New Mexico

Badlands never get old, especially when they look like giant petrified mushrooms. Here’s some badlands in New Mexico, not known to many.

23. The Window – Big Bend National Park (Texas)

Big Bend is one of the least visited national parks due to its location just west of middle-of-nowhere, Texas. But what it lacks in visitors it makes up in breathtaking views like this one.

The Window is one of those places where you have to just put life on hold, get comfortable on a bench and watch the vast Texas sky transform into a real-life painting at sunset. It’s one of my favorite national parks in Texas .

And after you get your sunset fix, head to nearby Marfa,Texas to see the sky get real freaky when the Marfa lights come out.

24. Green River Overlook – Canyonlands National Park (Utah)

A lot of people have seen images of the Canyonlands, but I still think Canyonlands National Park is overlooked so I included it. You’ll catch some of the most amazing sunrises and sunsets you’ve ever seen at this park. And if you’re a movie buff, try heading to Blue John Canyon where you can see the site where the actual accident occurred in the movie,  127 hours .

25. Blue Mesa/Painted Desert – Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)

Now it’s back to Dr. Seuss land with more absurdly colored desert land. And what makes this place even weirder is that the brown stuff you’ll assume is dirt is actually little bits of petrified trees that are reallllly old. It’s one of my favorite national parks sites in Arizona ( read more about others here ).

26. Valley of Fire – Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)

Don’t think you’ll ever be able to make your way to Mars? Well, luckily you can catch a glimpse of Mars at this state park in Nevada where Hollywood has also gone looking for the Martian terrain. There are ton of formations to check out here but the Fire Wave (seen below) is one of my favorites.

This place is only about 60 miles out from Las Vegas, so if you don’t want to drive all the way to the Grand Canyon this is the place you want to stop. If you visit this place in the summer, be sure to bring extra water because it gets HOT. Dry heat or not, it’s still the Valley of Fire .

27. Antelope Canyon – Arizona

While Antelope Canyon is becoming more known it still deserves a place on this list, because I meet tons of people who still don’t know about this sacred place. Witnessing the light beams in this canyon should be on everyone’s bucket list. Check out my write-up on Antelope Canyon for more info.

28. Inspiration and Bryce Point – Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Well known to photographers, the average vacationer is probably more interested in seeing sites like the Grand Canyon when in the area but this sight is not to be missed, especially at sunrise.

29. Smith Rock – Oregon (Smith Rock State Park)

Smith Rock, located in central Oregon, is a frequent rock-climbing destination for professional climbers and known as the birth place of “sport climbing.” The best of the best are consistently developing the latest routes and climbing techniques out here. Even if you’re not a climber it’s a beautiful setting to watch the sunrise as it illuminates this huge rock, resembling a castle towering over a surrounding moat.

30. Bodega Head – Bodega Bay (California)

When bringing up California beaches, the names usually mentioned first are those like Malibu and Big Sur. But here’s one you probably haven’t heard: Bodega Bay. At Bodega, massive cliffs suited for whale-watching overlook rocky beaches, and trails will lead you all around scenic terrain and even down to secluded beaches where you’ll be the only human being walking on the sand.

Say hello to the seals at Seal Rock and then visit the tide pools that are among the most diverse in the world and have attracted the likes of National Geographic. Just watch out for the birds when visiting the nearby town of Bodega.

31. Paradise Valley – Mt Rainer National Park (Washington)

Paradise valley. The name really says it all…

32. The Racetrack – Death Valley National Park (California)

Just how did these rocks get there? Aliens? The prankster of the century? God? Nobody really knows . The Race Track is a true natural wonder because if you visit it you will inevitably spend all day wondering who really moved these rocks?

33. Horseshoe Bend – Page, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is another spot growing with popularity but still often times confused with the Grand Canyon National Park. From a nearby parking lot, it’s a short hike to the overlook but be careful about getting too close to the edge — it’s a long 1,000 feet down to the Colorado River below.

34. B adlands – Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

Badlands National Park is the place to see badlands. It’s also a perfect place to find unique wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, the swift fox, bison, and the most endangered mammal in North America: the elusive black-footed ferret. Try to catch the sunset or sunrise here and if you’re lucky you may even catch a sight of the Northern Lights.

35. Fiery Furnace – Arches National Park (Utah)

So everyone goes to Arches National Park just to see the arches, right? Not exactly. Here’s one “non-arch” spot worth checking out. Enter the furnace at your own risk, however. Inside, there are no signs, trails, or cairns and due to the height of the sandstone walls your GPS is likely to fail as well.

36. Spider Rock – Canyon De Chelly National Monument (Arizona)

Recently used as a backdrop in last summer’s record-setting flop, The Lone Ranger , Canyon De Chelly is another destination worth a visit. The taller of the two spires is said to be home of the “Spider Grandmother” who according to folklore is responsible for all of creation. There’s more breathtaking views like the one below to checkout so make sure you see them all. Also, be sure to bring some cash with you to purchase some local art that makes for great souvenirs.

37. Giant Sequoias – Sequoia National Park (California)

So trees are kind of boring to most people including myself, but giant sequoias are definitely an exception. Sometimes growing higher than 300 feet, many of these trees are over 2,000 years old and have up to three-feet thick of squishy bark.

Head to Sequoia National Park to see them as well as the largest tree in the world, The General Sherman Tree.

38. Rio Grande Gorge – New Mexico 

The Rio Grande gets a bad wrap sometimes but this view should change your mind. If you’re ever making the cross country road trip through southern New Mexico then check out the “Gorge Bridge” where you’ll be awestruck with views like this.

39. Hospital Reef Potholes – San Diego, California

Hospital Reef Potholes, near San Diego, is known for its potholes that kind of resemble the surface of the moon. Speaking of the moon, all you national park junkies may want to start gearing up because you may have one hell of a hike to get to one of the upcoming National Park sites, soon.

40. Mammoth Springs – Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

We end the list with another Yellowstone site that many wouldn’t be able to recognize and constantly overlook, leaving it ranked as low as the 23rd attraction for Yellowstone according to TripAdvisor. On your way to the hot springs and in nearby areas, you may run into some real wildlife.

I’m talking about grizzly bears, moose, bison, elk, that kind of stuff so watch out. But everyone seems to be blown away by these hot springs, which make a worthwhile destination in the summer or in the -20 degree winter.

Remember to tread lightly and do your best to preserve these wonderful locations by using common sense and having respect for the land, the locals, and other visitors when you visit.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Great website. Never knew some of these places existed. Will definitely be visiting some of these places.

I would like to receive info on hidden, historic and other destination and sight-seeing west of the Mississippi River locations for an out of shape late 60 year old and slightly younger wife and friends who are planning a possible driving tour for the future.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

20 Epic Places To Visit In The South, USA

February 11, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

There are so many amazing, beautiful, and unique places to visit in the South of the United States. The southern states consist of a large chunk of the U.S. so if you plan on doing any major traveling in this country, you are bound to end up in the South at some point. And you are in for a treat once you arrive!

Whether you are taking a southern road trip, exploring a specific state, or want to cross off another U.S. National Park, whatever brings you to the South will be well worth the trip! There are so many things to do here from fun, history-rich cities to gorgeous natural landscapes. You are sure to make some great memories as you discover what these states have to offer.

Providence Canyon, Georgia

Providence Canyon State Park provides one of the best landscapes in Georgia and is 100% worth the visit if you are in the state. Known as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” the Providence Canyon makes a great day trip for nature lovers and hikers.

With over one thousand acres to explore, you will have so much fun searching out the best photo spots. The soil here is an array of pink, orange, red, and purple, creating an otherworldly appearance you will fall in love with.

If you want to check out the hiking trails, there are many to chose from with varying levels of difficulty. There are many scenic overlooks that give a view of the many gullies, the deepest of which is at 150 feet. If you visit in July or August, look for the rare Plumleaf Azalea flower blooming. You can camp at this park as well if you want to stay longer in the pretty area.

Ginnie Springs, Florida

Ginnie Springs is truly a beautiful hot spring oasis in Florida! With shockingly blue, crystal clear water, you will feel as if you have traveled to paradise. If you are looking for a place to relax, this is one of the best places in the South.

Spend time swimming, tubing, or paddle boarding in this consistent 72 degree Fahrenheit water. If you are scuba trained, this is a great place to go diving as well as there are many caves to explore.

Ginnie Springs can get quite busy in the summer due to its popularity, but if you visit in the spring or fall, you can avoid the worst of the crowds. The area is also fairly good-sized, so it is possible to find a little corner to yourself. If you want to make a weekend out of visiting the springs, you can stay at the campground.

Jacob’s Well, Texas

The Jacob’s Well Natural Area is about an hour southwest of Austin, Texas, and can be visited as a day trip from the city. Jacob’s Well is the second-largest completely submerged cave in Texas. This 81-acre area is free to visit unless you plan on swimming, in which case you need to pay a fee and reserve a time. Taking a dip here is a great way to cool off in the summer heat. The water stays at a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Swimming is allowed from May until September.

Along with swimming, Jacob’s Well is a great place for hiking and bird watching. It is also possible to go on an hour-long tour with a naturalist guide. This is a great way to learn about the nature of the area along with the history of Jacob’s Well and the aquifer system. Tours are by request only on two Saturdays each month. You can also stop by the Nature Center any weekend.

Cummins Falls State Park, Tennessee

About an hour and a half from Nashville, you will find the pretty and tranquil Cummins Falls State Park. This is a great stop to make if you are doing a Tennessee road trip and love exploring nature. The beautiful Cummins Falls is a 75-foot waterfall that cascades down a cool rock base before ending in a swimming hole.

It is important to note that you do need to get a Gorge Access Permit before you begin your hike to the waterfall. The hike itself is relatively strenuous and involves traversing uneven ground, crossing water, and climbing rocks.

Because of this, it is not recommended for really young kids. However, the hike is very much worth it when you get to see the falls and cool off with a dip in the water. If you do not want to hike into the gorge, there is a viewpoint above it where you can get a great look.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a must for any Georgia road trip! This is a city full of Southern charm, from its cobblestone streets to the Spanish moss covering the oak trees. This is the perfect city to escape to for people with any hobby or interest. History buffs will love exploring Old Fort Jackson or learning about the city’s past on an Old Savannah Trolly Tour.

If you are into architecture, you will really love checking out the Victorian district, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or the Mercer Williams House. If you are traveling with kids and want some family-friendly fun, head over to pretty Forsyth Park or consider booking a river cruise on an iconic steamboat. No matter what you do in Savannah, you are sure to have a great time!

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a vibrant, fun city where you can easily spend a couple of days or over a week. There is just so much to do and see! Start your stay here by familiarizing yourself with the city by walking the pretty streets and exploring the famous French Quarter. If you love photographing beautiful streets and buildings, then you will adore NOLA! There are so many balconies and amazing, Southern-styled architecture.

New Orleans is also one of the best cities in the South for food! It is really a destination for foodies who want to try French Creole cuisine, check out cute cafes, or even just bar hop.

When you are not stuffing your face with beignets, you can ride the streetcar, walk along the Mississippi River, or visit the Saint Louis Cathedral. When night falls, head to Bourbon Street to soak in the party atmosphere.

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

In Arkansas, you will find Hot Springs National Park, which has some of the best hot springs in the U.S. Take a dip in the natural, thermal hot springs from inside one of the historic bathhouses.

While you can’t soak outside, you can still touch the fresh water in a couple of outdoor pools. The 4,000-year-old, protected spring water is drinkable so make sure to stock up on water by filling bottles at some of the many fountains.

While you are here, make sure to check out the Fordyce Bathhouse Museum and Visitor Center to learn about the history of the baths. The Hot Springs Mountain Tower is another thing to check out is you love great views. The open-air observation deck will provide views of the mountains and forest. There are also a few hiking and biking trails that will weave you through the nature of the park.

Stephens Gap, Alabama

The Stephens Gap Callahan Cave Preserve is one of the best places in the Southeast and can be found about two hours north of Birmingham, Alabama.

It is a very cool place to visit if you love exploring unique nature locations. Stephens Gap is one of the most photographed caves in the country and it is no wonder why! It is so pretty here! The cave features a waterfall that cascades into a deep pit.

The cave has two entrances, one for hikers and one for people who are trained in repelling. Because of the position of the entrances, there is often light streaming into the darkness, creating an awesome scene. The hike is about a mile and a half round trip and is moderate difficulty. There are steep and slippery areas, so be careful and wear appropriate shoes. If you are repelling, you must bring your own gear. However you plan to visit, you must get a free permit.

Helen, Georgia

Helen, Georgia is hands down one of the cutest small towns in The South and you will instantly fall in love with its charm. This tiny town has German roots, a fact that will quickly become apparent by the architecture.

You will feel as if you are walking through an Alpine village. Come in summer to enjoy the surrounding great outdoors or plan your visit for December for European Christmas market vibes.

Even though the town only holds a population of about 550 people, it also home to a ton of fun activities. You can go zip-lining in the trees, tubing in the river, fly into the sky in a hot air balloon, or even pan for gold. In town, shopping is a great pastime, especially if Christmas is soon. Make sure to check out all of the cute, local artisan and treat shops.

Great Smokey Mountains National Park, Tennessee

There is a reason the Great Smokey Mountains are the most visited National Park in the U.S. The over half million-acre park is absolutely gorgeous, especially in the fall when the foliage is set ablaze.

If nature is your happy place, then you are sure to love the Great Smokey Mountains! Spend a few days here hiking scenic trails, horseback riding, exploring historic sites, and spotting wildlife, including the possibility of black bears.

You can camp in the park or you can stay in one of the cute, mountain towns on the park’s outskirts. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are two popular options. These towns act as a gateway to the surrounding nature and have a host of fun things to do as well. The Great Smokey Mountains are not only one of the best places to visit in the South, but the U.S. in general. It is a popular road trip destination that you simply must visit at least once!

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is a lovely coastal city with plenty of Southern charm, pretty architecture, and historic points of interest. There is truly something here for everyone, making this city a top place to visit in the South. Also, did we mention the food?! This is a city full of great eats and we suggest taking a food tour to get a bite of all the best Southern food the city has to offer!

When you are full from eating your way through Charleston, relax on a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city or a boat cruise of the harbor. If you are into history or architecture, then check out the Fort Sumter National Monument, the McLeod Plantation Historic Site, or the Citadel. If you are traveling with kids you might have fun at the Joe Riley Waterfront Park, the South Carolina Aquarium, or the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park is a great Southern getaway found in the wilderness of Virginia not far from Washington D.C. This is the perfect place to escape the city and become one with nature. There are over 500 miles of hiking trails to explore. Discover beautiful fields of colorful wildflowers, flowing waterfalls, and a plethora of wildlife including deer, birds, and black bears.

Along with hiking, you can spend your time in the park driving the scenic Skyline Drive, riding your bike, fishing tranquil mountain streams, rock climbing, or stargazing. Pretty much the list is endless! There is so much to see and experience here that you can easily spend a day or three here. If you are staying the night, you can camp or stay at a lodge.

Upper Caney Creek Falls, Alabama

The hidden gem of Upper Caney Creek Falls is like a scene from a fairy tale. The hike to discover this sight is just under two miles round trip and is pretty easy. After wandering through the forest like a Disney princess, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the tiny, 20-foot waterfall dropping into the perfect swimming hole. Another cool feature of this waterfall is the fast that you can actually walk behind it because of the shape of the cliff. This gives you a new perspective and a great place to take photographs.

If you visit in the summer, the forest will be bright green and full of wildlife. The pool under the falls is usually a pretty, blue-green color. After enjoying the upper falls, you can choose to continue down the creek to find the Lower Caney Creek Falls. To find the trailhead to this secret place in Alabama, drive about an hour and twenty minutes northwest of Birmingham to the small town of Ashridge.

Everglades National Park, Florida

If you are planning a Florida road trip you have to go to the Everglades National Park ! Whether you want to check another National Park off your bucket list, are an avid birdwatcher, or just love to discover cool and unique landscapes, the Everglades are for you! This park features over two million acres of wetlands, saw-grass marshes, and mangrove forests. It is the only place in the wild where you can spot both American alligators and American crocodiles. It is also home to a ton of species of beautiful birds, snakes, and manatees.

While in the Everglades, enjoy waking scenic trails, taking an airboat ride , finding all of the best observation towers, and visiting the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. If you are exceptionally keen to see wild alligators , hike the short Anhinga Trail, which is one of the best places in the park to find these amazing creatures. Just be careful not to get too close!

Austin, Texas

A Texas road trip is sure to bring you to Austin, one of the best cities in the South. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World and with a slogan of “Keep Austin Weird”, this city is very hip. diverse, and full of music culture. Spend a couple of days here taking in the sights and just overall having a blast. Head to Sixth Street to soak in the vibe of the city as you bar hop and listen to live bands.

If you are into art or history, make sure to visit some of the city’s museums, including the Bullock Texas State History Museum, the Blanton Museum of Art, or the Mexic-Arte Museum. If you are looking for a place to relax and cool off, the Barton Springs Municipal Pool is the place for you. The natural, spring-fed pool is found in the pretty Zilker Park.

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina is another Southern city worth visiting! This is a popular travel destination for a number of reasons. For one, the cute city is surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy “America’s favorite drive” on the Blue Ridge Parkway as you twist through the mountains to find hiking trails and gorgeous scenic vistas. The nearby French Broad River gives tourists a place to go tubing, boating, or fishing.

When you are not exploring the encompassing nature, you will want to wander the cool city. Known for its art scene, Asheville is a hip city full of unique shops, outdoor markets, craft breweries, and local art galleries. Take a trolley tour to learn the history of the city or enjoy a delicious food tour. Another way to step into the past is to visit the Biltmore mansion, which was built by George W. Vanderbilt in the 1890s.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida is one of the top tourist destinations in the country! Besides being home to Disney World and Universal Studios, this city is where you can find a ton of fun things to do to fill a couple’s weekend or a week-long family vacation. No matter who you are traveling with, there is something for everyone! Thrill seekers will want to go skydiving, ride in a hot air balloon, or go up in the 400-foot high Ferris wheel at ICON Park.

If you are traveling with kids, you will probably check out the many theme parks, but don’t forget to take them to Gatorland, Wonder Works, or Discovery Cove. Anyone interested in science or space will want to take a day trip to the Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral. When you are ready to relax and unwind, head out of the city to Blue Springs State Park or Rock Springs at Kelly Park.

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park is another place to stop in Texas . Since it is found on the border with Mexico, make sure to pack your passport if you want to make a stop in another country and visit some cute, small towns. The park itself is a prime desert and mountain location. This is a great place to camp, hike, and photograph nature.

One of the best hiking trails is found at Santa Elena Canyon. This two mile round trip hike will provide amazing views. This park also has historic ruins to discover, including a mine, a house, and a post office. When your muscles start to ache from hiking and adventuring, head to the Hot Springs Historic Trail by the Rio Grande to soak in natural hot springs while taking in great views of the river.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is a great place to visit in the South if you love music or having fun in general! It is, of course, known as the Music City and is drenched in music culture. The entertainment district on Low Broadway is full of honky-tonks, themed restaurants, bars, and shops. You will also find the Country Music Hall of Fame here as well. If you want to learn the history of the area, consider taking a walking tour.

While in Nashville, you can also check out the historic Ryman Auditorium, explore pretty parks, or learn about science and history at museums. If you are up for an hour and a half drive, you can head down to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Nashville is a great city to explore as a family or as a friend’s getaway. No matter what you are interested in, there is something for you!

Chattahoochee National Forest, Georgia

The gorgeous Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia is where you will find the ridge of Yonah Mountain, whose name translates to Bear in Cherokee. The hike to this mountain’s summit is just over two miles one way and is relatively easy. The views are to die for from the top! Come to this area in the fall to catch the mountain peak drenched in lovely golden foliage .

There are plenty of other things to do in Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest as well. There are over 800 miles worth of hiking trails to explore. Search for ancient petroglyphs and gorgeous waterfalls. You can also go canoeing, horseback riding, or camping. The Scull Shoals Historic Site features the state’s first paper mill dating back to 1811. Chattahoochee National Forest is near Helen, Georgia, so you could easily make a day trip from the small town.

If you did not know beforehand, you have learned that the South is home to a ton of amazing places to visit! There are so many cool cities to visit in the South as well as National Parks, hidden nature gems, and diverse landscapes. We suggest planning a road trip or two in order to hit some of these spectacular places!

World Wild Schooling

12 Unique and Must-Visit Places in the US for Your Bucket List

Posted: April 21, 2024 | Last updated: April 21, 2024

The United States boasts a collection of exclusive world-renowned landmarks and landscapes, a privilege every avid traveler should aspire to experience. Whether you are an avid explorer seeking to explore the best the world has to offer, an Instagrammer looking to capture unique content, or a slow traveler desiring to experience the world at a relaxed pace, this list is tailored for you.

We understand that travelers have diverse interests; some are drawn to instagrammable man-made features, others to the awe-inspiring natural landscapes. The rich diversity of the United States is reflected in this list, catering to every traveler’s unique preferences.

From the pristine beaches of California to the architectural marvels of our generation, these unique sites are waiting to be added to your travel bucket list, whether you are US-based or not. 

The Grand Canyon, Arizona

From its depths and dramatic rock formation to its sheer length, the Grand Canyon offers unbeatable exploration and sightseeing opportunities. Enjoy breathtaking views of its rugged cliffs, immense size, and deep gorges that extend for several kilometers.

The canyon has trails of varied difficulty, such as Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail; choose one and get to explore. You can also go camping or take a helicopter for unbeatable panoramic views. In whatever way you experience the Grand Canyon, come prepared to capture some of the most stunning shots you may ever take.

Read also: Picture-Perfect American Landscape

Disney World, Florida

Plan to visit Disney World in Florida at least once in your lifetime—or twice; once is never really enough to fully enjoy this park’s fun. Start by enjoying incredible rides on roller coasters such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Space Mountain.

Then, immerse yourself in different worlds by exploring theme parks like Holly Studios, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Epcot. Have meals at high-end eateries, meet your favorite characters, or catch your favorite film in a state-of-the-art cinema.

Read also: US Cities With Vibrant Nightlife

South Beach, Miami

South Beach is home to swaying palms, sandy strands, and stunning Deco buildings, making it a perfect destination to have fun, snap Instagram-worthy photos, and create memories.

Scenery aside, South Beach is a haven for relaxing spas, such as Away Spa, The Standard Spa, and Valmont for The Spa at The Setai, which are ideal for pampering treatments after long days on the beach. The nightlife here is vibrant, too. If you are into night partying, stop by renowned clubs such as Nikki Beach, Hyde Beach, M2, and Basement.

Read also: Stunning Seaside Cities in the US

Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore National Park, also known as America’s Shrine of Democracy, is famous for its 60-foot face sculptures of the country’s past presidents: Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.

Besides symbolizing the ideals of democracy and freedom for Americans, the park is home to the Lincoln Borglum Museum, Sculptor’s Studio(which showcases the techniques used in the sculpting works), hiking trails , the Avenue of Flags, and Junior Ranger Programs for kids. It is not just a historical monument but also a haven for nature lovers.

Read also: Must-Visit US Landmarks

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Known as one of Utah’s finest gems, Bryce Canyon National Park has a lot to offer all kinds of travelers. This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts with horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters, scenic views, unbeatable stargazing opportunities, and spectacular hiking trails.

Some hiking trails that let you enjoy the park’s best views include Navajo Loop and Queen Garden. Capture the best views at Bryce Amphitheater, the national park’s largest concentration of hoodoos. For the best panoramic views, stop by the park’s viewpoints, such as Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Bryce Point.

Read also: Breathtaking Natural Wonders in the US

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Although Oregon has many incredible places to visit, it only has one national park, Crater Lake National Park. Visiting it is, therefore, one of the best ways to explore Oregon’s nature. That aside, the scenery in this park is staggeringly beautiful.

From the views of the deepest and one of the most pristine lakes in the US, Crater Lake, to Mount Thielsen, Klamath Falls, the deserts lands of Eastern Oregon, and green rolling hills that lead to the Pacific, this park offers fantastic scenery to indulge in.

Additionally, Crater Lake National Park offers fantastic sunset and sunrise views. Stay around at dawn and dusk to catch the beautiful interplay of the sun’s rays on the skies and the reflections on the lake’s waters. 

Read also: Charming Lake Destinations in the US

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica is a superb destination for anyone who craves a coastal escape to remember. Bask in the beautiful and sandy Santa Monica State Beach, enjoy scenic views of the Santa Monica Pier, and shop for groceries at the vibrant Santa Monica farmers markets.

If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can visit Santa Monica Mountain National Recreation Area and go on one of the park’s challenging trails. Better still, you can take a well-deserved break and pamper yourself at the city’s renowned spas, such as Liz Angeles Wellness, Burke William Spa, or Willow Spas.

Read also: US Coastal Gems

Space Center, Houston

Also known as the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, the Space Center is Houston’s best attraction for anyone intrigued by spacecraft. The landscape features a mix of modern space facilities, including astronaut training facilities, historic Mission Control rooms, and a vast collection of spacecraft and artifacts.

Step into the Mission Control rooms and relive key moments in space exploration, such as monitoring NASA’s Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo missions. Then, take a tram tour of the Johnson Space Center, which offers behind-the-scenes access to astronaut training facilities, the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility, and other working areas of NASA.

Read also: Must-Visit US Cities

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Over 70 mountain peaks rising higher than 12,000 feet, 350 miles of hiking trails, 450 miles of rivers and streams, and 150 lakes in one national park? Rocky Mountain National Park is undoubtedly a little paradise for nature enthusiasts. These features offer endless swimming, hiking, sightseeing, camping , photo-taking, and scenic driving opportunities. 

While sightseeing and exploration opportunities are numerous here, you should make the most of Longs Peak, the highest point in the park, and The Trail Ridge Road, a scenic drive that cuts through the park from east to west. If you are lucky, you may see wildlife, including deer, bighorn sheep, elk, coyotes, marmots, and the numerous bird species found here.

Read also: Best State Parks for Camping

Antelope Canyon, Arizona

The narrow passageways, the gently curving walls, and the delicate patterns on the wall surfaces make Antelope Canyon a mesmerizing destination that every nature lover should visit.

Wait until you witness the sun rays streaming into the canyon, illuminating the sandstone walls in vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold. The interplay the light beams create makes the canyon a haven for photographers. This phenomenon is best captured in the mid-mornings and early afternoons.

Read also: Insta-Worthy Spots in the US

Oahu, Hawaii

If you must experience just one Hawaiian island, let it be Oahu. Yes, all Hawaiian islands are beautiful, but Oahu is just a tropical paradise everyone should experience at least once. Whether you are a big city person or prefer to be in the undestroyed wilderness, you have a spot at Oahu.

Start by exploring Honolulu City, and then have a great beach time at Lanikai Beach or by the North Shore, where you can also surf. History buffs will have a great time at Harbour National Memorial and learn the history of World War II.

Oahu is known for some of the world’s best shopping destinations, such as Waikiki, Ala Moana Center, Kahala Mall, and Aloha Tower Marketplace.

Read also: Best US Islands for a Beach Holiday

Space Needle, Seattle, Washington

For over 50 years, the Space Needle has dominated Seattle’s skyline and has always fascinated local and international tourists. Previously, it served as an observation tower for the 1962 World’s Fair but has now been renovated to enhance tourists’ experience.

While at this observation tower, you will be treated to a 360° view of Seattle’s skyline, Eliot Bay, Mount Rainier, and Cascade Mountains. Be ready with your camera because the views here are to die for. Once you have had enough, enjoy a snack with an unbeatable view at the Atmos Café, situated at the observation deck level.

Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the US

Stunning Small Towns in Europe to Visit in Your Lifetime

Add these charming European small towns to your bucket list.

• Read more: Small Towns in Europe

Visa-Free Countries

Explore these  countries visa-free  with your American passport.

• Read more:  Visa-Free Countries

Must-Visit European Cities

Turn your wanderlust into reality with our list of  must-visit European cities .

• Read more:  Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Small Towns Across the Globe That Are Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

Step into a world of  beautiful small towns  where cobblestone streets lead to timeless wonders.

• Read more:  Small Towns Out of a Fairy Tale

Tropical Destinations To Add to Your Bucket List

Dreaming of paradise? Discover tropical destinations to add to your bucket list.

• Read more: Tropical Destinations To Visit in Your Lifetime

Caribbean Destinations Where No Visa Is Needed for Americans

Discover passport-free paradise with our guide to Caribbean destinations for US citizens .

• Read more: Caribbean Destinations Without Visa

Read the original thread on 12 Unique and Must-Visit Places in the US for Your Bucket List .

This article was produced and syndicated by World Wild Schooling .

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Nepal hosts rainbow conference to attract LGBTQ travellers: Check 10 must-visit places in the country

By embracing rainbow tourism, Nepal seeks to drive economic growth and foster social empowerment within the community. Let’s take a look at 10 places you must visit in the country to enjoy a scenic summer vacation.

Nepal recently played host to a groundbreaking rainbow conference, drawing a diverse array of supporters of the LGBTQ community from across the globe. With approximately 120 participants, including activists and writers from India, Sri Lanka, Germany, Spain, and the US, the conference served as a platform to champion inclusivity and diversity within the tourism industry. (Image: Reuters)

Given Nepal's remarkable commitment to LGBTQ rights, highlighted by constitutional provisions and landmark Supreme Court decisions , the conference aimed to position Nepal as a leading LGBTQ-friendly tourism destination. By embracing rainbow tourism, Nepal seeks to drive economic growth and foster social empowerment within the community. Let’s take a look at 10 places you must visit in the country to enjoy a scenic summer vacation.

No 1. Chitwan | Renowned for its lush jungles and diverse wildlife, Chitwan offers travellers a chance to embark on jungle safaris, where encounters with the majestic Bengal tiger and rare one-horned rhinoceroses await. Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich Tharu culture, experiencing traditional dances and cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 2. Annapurna | Home to some of the world's highest peaks and breathtaking trekking trails, Annapurna beckons adventurers seeking awe-inspiring mountain vistas and challenging yet rewarding hiking experiences. From the iconic Annapurna Circuit to the serene Annapurna Base Camp, this region offers a plethora of trekking options amidst stunning Himalayan landscapes, making it an unforgettable destination for trekking enthusiasts and nature aficionados. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 3. Kathmandu | Kathmandu, the vibrant capital city of Nepal, entices travellers with its rich history, ancient temples, and bustling markets, providing a captivating blend of traditional and modern culture. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the sacred Pashupatinath Temple and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square, or wander through the narrow alleys of the old town, immersing yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere and timeless charm. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 4. Palpa | Nestled in the hills of western Nepal, Palpa captivates visitors with its picturesque landscapes, ancient architecture, and serene ambiance, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Explore the well-preserved Newari architecture of Tansen, stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional houses, and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal destination for cultural immersion and relaxation. (Image: Reuters)

No 5. Pokhara | Known as the gateway to the Annapurna region, enchants travellers with its stunning lakes, serene valleys, and panoramic mountain views, offering a myriad of outdoor adventures and leisure activities. Whether boating on Phewa Lake, paragliding over the majestic Himalayas, or trekking to the nearby viewpoints, Pokhara promises unforgettable experiences amidst nature's splendor, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 6. Lumbini | The birthplace of Lord Buddha holds profound spiritual significance for Buddhists worldwide, attracting pilgrims and travellers seeking solace and enlightenment. Explore the sacred Maya Devi Temple and the ancient ruins of monasteries and stupas, or meditate in the tranquil gardens surrounding the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, offering a transformative journey into Buddhist history and philosophy. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 7. Patan | Known as the "City of Fine Arts", Patan mesmerises visitors with its exquisite architecture, intricate woodcarvings, and vibrant cultural heritage, showcasing the finest examples of Newari craftsmanship. Wander through the narrow alleyways of the old town, marvel at the ornate temples and palaces of Durbar Square, and visit the Patan Museum to admire its impressive collection of ancient artifacts and religious relics, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and history buffs. (Image: Reuters)

No 8. Bhaktapur | Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and traditional way of life, Bhaktapur transports visitors back in time to the golden era of the Malla dynasty, offering a glimpse into Nepal's rich cultural heritage. Explore the narrow brick-paved streets of the ancient city, admire the intricately carved wooden facades of the historic buildings, and visit the iconic Nyatapola Temple and Bhaktapur Durbar Square, making it an unforgettable destination for cultural immersion and architectural exploration. (Image: Reuters)

No 9. Mustang | Nestled in the rain shadow of the Himalayas, Mustang entices adventurers with its rugged landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unique Tibetan culture, offering a journey into the heart of the Trans-Himalayan region. Trek through the arid valleys and windswept plateaus of Upper Mustang, visit the iconic Lo Manthang Palace and ancient cave dwellings, and witness the vibrant festivals and rituals of the local Tibetan communities, making it a must-visit destination for intrepid explorers and cultural enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 10. Janakpur | LGBTQ travellers can visit Janakpur in Nepal, to immerse in its rich cultural heritage, including the revered Janaki Temple dedicated to Goddess Sita. Additionally, the city's vibrant festivals and colorful bazaars offer a unique insight into traditional Nepalese life. (Image: Reuters)

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Fraud alerts.

Who can place one: Anyone can freeze their credit report, even if their identity has not been stolen.

What it does: A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, which means you — or others — won’t be able to open a new credit account while the freeze is in place. You can temporarily lift the credit freeze if you need to apply for new credit. When the freeze is in place, you will still be able to do things like apply for a job, rent an apartment, or buy insurance without lifting or removing it.

Duration: A credit freeze lasts until you remove it.

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How to place: Contact each of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

Fraud alerts are available in different situations and have different benefits.

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Who can place one: Anyone who suspects fraud can place a fraud alert on their credit report.

What it does: A fraud alert will make it harder for someone to open a new credit account in your name. A business must verify your identity before it issues new credit in your name.

When you place a fraud alert on your credit report, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus.

Duration: A fraud alert lasts one year. After a year, you can renew it.

How to place: Contact any one of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You don’t have to contact all three. The credit bureau you contact must tell the other two to place a fraud alert on your credit report.

Extended fraud alert

Who can place one: An extended fraud alert is only available to people who have had their identity stolen and completed an FTC identity theft report at IdentityTheft.gov or filed a police report.

What it does: Like a fraud alert, an extended fraud alert will make it harder for someone to open a new credit account in your name. A business must contact you before it issues new credit in your name.

When you place an extended fraud alert on your credit report, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus twice within one year from when you place the alert, which means you could review your credit report six times in a year.

In addition, the credit bureaus will take you off their marketing lists for unsolicited credit and insurance offers for five years, unless you ask them not to.

Duration: An extended fraud alert lasts seven years.

How to place: Contact any one of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You don’t have to contact all three. The credit bureau you contact must tell the other two to place an extended fraud alert on your credit report.

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Who can place one: Active duty service members can place an active duty fraud alert.

What it does: An active duty fraud alert will make it harder for someone to open a new credit account in your name. A business must verify your identity before it issues new credit in your name.

In addition, the credit bureaus will take you off their marketing lists for unsolicited credit and insurance offers for two years, unless you ask them not to.

Duration : An active duty fraud alert lasts one year. After a year, you can renew it for the length of your deployment.

How to place: Contact any one of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You don’t have to contact all three. The credit bureau you contact must tell the other two to place an active duty fraud alert on your credit report.

Free credit monitoring for active duty service members Active duty service members can get free electronic credit monitoring , which can detect problems that might be the result of identity theft. To sign up, contact each of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

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