visit in america

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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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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35 most beautiful places to travel to in America (what to see and how to see it)

It’s said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Maybe for you, beauty is the bright lights of a cityscape at night or a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Maybe it’s a meadow of wildflowers, a roaring waterfall, or a historic neighborhood in a famous city. For many, it’s a natural wonder like the Grand Canyon , Yellowstone's Old Faithful geyser, or Hawaii's Mauna Kea volcano . Beauty can be found anywhere, in anything, so we’ve gathered this list of some of America's most beautiful places to travel—the landmarks, attractions, and breathtaking views to see before you die.

But we aren’t stopping there. It’s one thing to tell you about America’s most beautiful places, and another to help you plan the perfect itinerary to see them. In our list below, you’ll gain 35 adventures to add to your bucket list and specific ways to experience them, from guided hiking tours, helicopter rides, and sailing expeditions, to recommended hotels and alternative lodging options in each spot.

The best part? You can book almost everything right on TripAdvisor. We check up to 200 booking sites to bring you the lowest price on hotels , plus we have thousands of bookable tours, excursions, attraction tickets, and more, ready to book online .

Without further ado, here are some of the most beautiful places, landmarks, and attractions to visit in the USA.

Island of Kauai, Hawaii: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Poipu’s Beaches

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters - Kauai

There’s a reason big-budget films like Tropic Thunder and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides feature this lush location as a backdrop. This tropical paradise is home to some of the most gorgeous scenery on the planet, from the spectacular Mt. Waialeale crater , which gets more rainfall than anywhere else on earth, to the stunning Mana Waiapuna falls featured in Jurassic Park, the towering spires of the Nā Pali Coast, and the resorts of Princeville . A great way to see it all is via this helicopter tour taking you over the island of Kauai, as well as the Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and Poipu’s gorgeous beaches . Pro tip: Make time to check out the snorkeling , rafting, and kayaking experiences around the Nā Pali Coast and its famous sea caves, too.

Where to stay

• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
• This two-bedroom condo, steps from the beach

Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

Kenai Fjords Tours

It’s not hard to see why this six-hour excursion in Kenai Fjords National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular wildlife and glacier cruises. Glide past alpine and tidewater glaciers, spot abundant marine wildlife, and visit seabird rookeries at the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. Drifting past the jagged icy cliffs along the Kenai Peninsula, you might catch breath-taking glimpses of humpback, minke, and orca whales, among other creatures that flock to the plankton-rich waters. No matter your adventure style, there are plenty of tours available for exploring Kenai Fjords National Park .

• Seward Windsong Lodge
• Harbor 360 Hotel

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park

There are so many ways to take in the majesty of the Grand Canyon. Bus trip , helicopter tour from nearby Las Vegas, or travel the way visitors did in the early 20th century: by train ! This iconic American destination is celebrated for its Colorado River views and awe-inspiring red rock formations stretching as far as the eye can see. Also worth exploring are Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend , both of which are about two hours away from the popular South Rim of the Grand Canyon .

• El Tovar Hotel
• Grand Canyon Lodge – North Rim

Pfeiffer Beach: Big Sur, California

Pfeiffer Beach

As the Beach Boys crooned, Big Sur is a place of crimson sunsets and golden dawns. Pfeiffer Beach is an especially picturesque stretch where the waves roar as they hit the white sand of the beach. One TripAdvisor reviewer was particularly taken with the sight of the rocks perforated with holes, allowing water to splash through making for some spectacular camera shots. McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge get tons of deserved Big Sur hype, but Pfeiffer Beach is more of a hidden gem—check out its purple sand and amazing rock formations.

• Post Ranch Inn
• Big Sur Lodge

Colorado’s Blue Lakes

Blue Lakes Trail

The Blue Lakes Hiking Trail near Telluride , situated above the tree line at about 12,400 feet, offers a gorgeous hike past alpine lakes and the peaks of Yankee Boy Basin. Hikers often tackle it as a day-long excursion, taking in the sight of colorful wildflowers and everything from marmots to mountain goats or sheep. If you’re staying in Denver and want to try something similar, you can take this private day tour of Mount Evans , which includes spectacular views from the top of the famous ‘14er’, as well sightings of wildlife like bighorn sheep, elk, and bison.

• Hotel Columbia
• The Hotel Telluride

The Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

Brooklyn Bridge

New York City is truly an incredible metropolis, worthy of many superlatives. While Central Park or the Statue of Liberty could certainly be considered beautiful, our pick here is the Brooklyn Bridge thanks to its stunning architecture (one reviewer claims it’s an " iconic engineering marvel ") and unique skyline views. Opened in 1883 and spanning nearly 6,000 feet, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the world’s most recognizable suspension bridges and a classic New York sight. Travelers rave about waking across the bridge at sunrise or sunset, or alternatively taking the view in at nighttime on a boat cruise —which also includes views of One World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty, and the Chrysler Building.

• The Roxy Hotel Tirbeca
• Hotel 50 Bowery NYC

Fall Foliage in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Anyone planning a getaway who loves history, New England, mountains, and dazzling fall colors, should put Bretton Woods in autumn on their travel wish list. It’s actually a point within the town of Carroll, New Hampshire. In fall, this place is simply spectacular. Hike up West Mountain for amazing views or ride The Cog , a cog railway carrying tourists up Mount Washington.

• Omni Mount Washington Resort
• The Lyme Inn

Forsyth Park: Savannah, Georgia

Forsyth Park

The thirty-acre site of Forsyth Park , dating from the 1840s, is one of the most iconic spots in the city of Savannah. The park’s fountain is probably its most recognizable landmark, and the benches and Spanish moss-covered oaks that surround it have helped make it a romantic focal point for photography. Outside the park, TripAdvisor reviewers particularly love Savannah’s historic churches and cathedrals, this museum dedicated to the history of Prohibition, and sites like Bonaventure Cemetery , nestled on the bluff of the Wilmington River and famous for its old tree-lined roadways and historic architecture.

• The Kehoe House
• The Eliza Thompson House

Maui’s Honokohau Falls and the Sea Cliffs of Molokai from the air

Maui Plane Rides

Taking a flight across Hawaii’s most dramatic landscapes will really make you sit up and appreciate the world around you. On this helicopter tour over Molokai and Maui you’ll see a panorama of cliffs, jungle, ocean, and volcanoes, perhaps interrupted by a majestic whale or two. Take in those massive sea cliffs and that serene North Shore bathed in sunlight—you simply won’t want to leave.

• Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort
• This one-bedroom condo, voted #1 rental in Maui

Driftwood Beach: Jekyll Island, Georgia

Driftwood Beach

Amateur shutterbugs flock to Driftwood Beach , a distinctive spot on the north end of Georgia’s Jekyll Island that looks, quite simply, like a graveyard for trees. Trust us, it’s a lot more beautiful than it sounds. It often shows up on lists rounding up the most romantic beaches in the country, due to its landscape of sun-scarred driftwood that makes you feel like you’re in another world. Catch it early in the morning or at sunset for a view that will take your breath away.

• Saint Simons Inn by the Lighthouse
• The Cloister at Sea Island

Views from Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee

Lookout Mountain

The views at Lookout Mountain are nothing less than breathtaking, looking over the city of Chattanooga, as well as parts of neighboring states. There’s a powerful sense of history here, as several TripAdvisor reviewers note, as you stand on ground where Civil War soldiers fought and died. Also seek out Ruby Falls (which includes a cave and waterfall underneath the mountain), the rock formations and gardens in Rock City , and Point Park , memorializing the 1863 Civil War Battle Above the Clouds. Visit in the fall for the added bonus of colorful foliage!

• The Dwell Hotel
• The Chattanoogan

Views from the Stratosphere Observation Tower in Las Vegas

Stratosphere Tower

When people talk about the Stratosphere in Vegas, they could be referring to the hotel or the casino, but there’s a better chance that they really mean the roughly 1,150-foot-tall freestanding observation tower . This distinctive Sin City landmark includes two observation decks, the revolving Top of the World restaurant, and several bookable rides and attractions, such as this open-air leap from the tower via the SkyJump experience . This unlimited ride pass also lets you experience the thrills of rides like the Big Shot.

• The Venetian

Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis: Missouri

Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis

This St. Louis cathedral , the mother church of the St. Louis archdiocese, is home to one of the largest collections of mosaics in the Western hemisphere. This beautiful structure turned 100 years old in 2014 and is perhaps best known for its interior mosaics, which took almost 80 years to complete, using more than 41 million pieces of glass tesserae. The interiors are stunning, for sure, but its incredible exterior architecture also gives it a nod on our list of beautiful sights in America.

• Moonrise Hotel
• Magnolia Hotel St. Louis

Views from the Willis Tower Skydeck in Chicago

Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower

If it’s a dizzying height with an epic Chicago view you want, head straight to the Ledge at Skydeck Chicago , housed in the second-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. A quintessentially Chicagoan and perfectly Instagrammable moment can be captured 103 floors up the Willis Tower, where you step out onto the glass balconies of the ledge, extending more than four feet outside the building. Enjoy those 360-degree views then turn your gaze down to your feet to see the slightly stomach-churning sight of everything 1,353 feet below you. Skydeck admission is listed at $22, and you can also enjoy dinner on the 103rd floor, bookable here .

• The Langham
• The Peninsula Chicago

The Lighthouses of Coastal Maine

Casco Bay Custom Charters

It doesn’t get much more storybook perfect than this: a two-hour excursion into Casco Bay aboard a vintage lobster boat, offering sublime views of the Maine coastline dotted with lighthouses. Each charter includes a captain and deckhand to guide you, regale you with local color, and tend to your needs, but it’s the lighthouses that are the stars of this show. You’ll see four in total, including the Ram Island Light, the Spring Point Ledge Light, Bug Light, and the iconic Portland Head Light, which was commissioned in 1791 by none other than George Washington himself.

• Portland Harbor Hotel
• The Press Hotel

Mauna Key Summit, Hawaii’s Big Island—from the air

Mauna Kea Summit

Once-in-a-lifetime moments don’t get much more epic than watching the sun rise from the top of a volcano. In this case, it’s the Mauna Kea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island, which is what this sunrise excursion is built around . Watching the purple, blue, orange, and red rays of the sun peek out over the horizon is the culmination of this six-hour trip to the volcano’s peak. For a perfect bookend to this experience, take this small-group sunset and stargazing tour of Mauna Kea , during which you’ll use powerful telescopes to observe constellations from the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station.

• Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

Boston’s Historic Neighborhoods

Boston Citywalks

William F. Buckley once quipped he’d be happy to entrust the entirety of the United States government to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone book. It was a rumination on the one-of-a-kind nature of the people here in Beantown, a truly iconic American city. Here, history and modernity coexist beautifully, and you feel it everywhere you go. In neighborhoods from Southie to Beacon Hill , with its cobblestone streets; in the foodie paradise of the North End ; from the tree-lined streets of Back Bay to the pubs, taverns, and institutions such as Boston and Harvard universities; in beautiful public spaces like Boston Common and historic landmarks like Faneuil Hall and the Old State House.

• Hotel Commonwealth
• Boston Harbor Hotel

Saint Augustine, Florida

Old City Tours of St. Augustine

Saint Augustine is a city that stands alone. Sure, it’s got all the trappings the average vacationer would want: charming hotels, intimate restaurants, pristine beaches. But it’s the history that gives this city its unique feel—it’s the oldest European settlement in the US. If you’re so inclined, you could pull a Ponce de Leon and taste the waters in the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park (let us know if it makes you feel any younger). Beyond that, there are tons of ways to explore the city, from ghost and trolley tours to sunset cruises and craft beer tastings .

• The Saint Augustine Beach House
• Marker 8 Hotel & Marina

Chapel of the Holy Cross: Sedona, Arizona

Chapel of the Holy Cross

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a distinctive, almost otherworldly-looking edifice built into the red rock formations of Sedona. It’s been featured in architecture magazines, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, and it’s just one of many memorable spots in this desert oasis, where you’ll also find resorts, spas, and canyons. The beauty of the desert scenery is only surpassed by the grandeur of the night sky. Once the sun dips, you’ll see it in all its glory, free of the illumination of city lights. If you want to explore the area, there are tons of experiences to choose from, like this small-group tour of Sedona and a tour of the chapel itself .

• Casa Sedona Inn
• The Inn Above Oak Creek

Cathedral of St. Helena, Montana

Cathedral of St. Helena

An awe-inspiring collection of artwork can be found in the German-made stained glass windows of the Cathedral of St. Helena , a Gothic-inspired structure with distinctive twin spires and a pipe organ. This must-see landmark gathers high praise from TripAdvisor reviewers for the beauty of the church and the sense of serenity within. Elsewhere in the city, there’s a museum of art , Reader’s Alley (a restored miners’ village complete with restaurant and shops), and the Gates of the Mountains wilderness area.

• The Sanders – Helena’s Bed and Breakfast
• The Bunkhouse Helena

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Midway Geyser Basin

The Midway Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park, while not home to the famous Old Faithful Geyser, is still arguably Yellowstone’s best area to explore, particularly for photographers. One reviewer states : “This is a must-see location within the park. The area is simply beautiful and very unique. The colors are truly magnificent.” Due to those stunning colors, the Midway Geyser Basin is one of the most photographed walks in Yellowstone. It includes the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Excelsior Geyser, plus the Turquoise Pool and the Opal Pool. This tour is a good way to experience all these sites and more—led by an expert guide, you’ll be able to see several impressive geysers, along with the natural beauty of canyons, cascades and more.

• Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins
• Dunraven Lodge

Niagara Falls, New York & Ontario

Niagara Falls

One guaranteed way to feel the awesome power of nature is to visit the inimitable Niagara Falls . There are three magnificent falls here, two American and one Canadian. On this tour of the American side of the falls you’ll get aerial views from the observation deck at Skylon Tower, get up close to Horseshoe Falls on the Maid of the Mist boat ride, and also reach the closest accessible point of the falls at Cave of the Winds.

• The Giacomo
• The Red Coach Inn Historic Bed and Breakfast Hotel

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina Mountains

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic drive offering world-famous, breath-taking views. The road links the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Park and you can explore the scenery here a number of different ways. There’s this photo tour and hike led by a local guide along the parkway, or you could try an alternative guided hike that also passes by three lovely waterfalls.

• Princess Anne Hotel
• The Inn at Glen Alpine

Wild Horses Grazing On the Beaches of Corolla, North Carolina

Corolla Outback Adventures

Now here’s a sight that’s unique to North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Ancestors of the wild Spanish Mustangs who wander free here were brought over in the 1500s on Spanish vessels. The horses you see today make up the last remaining wild herd. This two-hour tour of the Outer Banks transports you through the sand dunes in open-air four-wheel drive vehicles to see the wild horses in all their splendor. You’ll also visit a maritime forest and a historic Coast Guard station.

• The Inn on Pamlico Sound
• Sanderling Resort

Multnomah Falls: Bridal Veil, Oregon

Multnomah Falls

There’s an old Native American story that says Multnomah Falls was created for a young princess who wanted a secret place to bathe. This is certainly a place of beauty, with a roaring cascade of over 600 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the US. If you’re feeling particularly gutsy, walk up the trail to Benson Bridge, which spans the falls and gives you an unobstructed view up to the top—and a stomach-churning view down the roughly 70-foot drop. Tours like this show you around Multnomah Falls and the Columbia River Gorge as part of a half-day excursion from Portland.

• Allison Inn & Spa
• Columbia Cliff Villas Hotel

The Mansions of Newport, Rhode Island

Gansett Cruises

New England oozes an irresistible storybook charm, and there’s no better place to experience it than in Newport, Rhode Island , with its yacht-lined harbor and Gilded Age mansions. You can take a guided trolley tour or simply admire these castles of wealth from the water on a harbor sightseeing cruise . Most tours include a stop at The Breakers, a mansion that housed the Vanderbilts and is among the most impressive of the city’s historic abodes. Alternatively, walk along the famous Cliff Walk and see the mansions from a unique, picturesque perspective.

• The Chanler at Cliff Walk
• Grace Vanderbilt

Charleston’s Historic District: South Carolina

Old South Carriage Company

Charleston’s history dates back more than three centuries, so there are plenty of opportunities to explore the fascinating past of this handsome port city. Wander among its antebellum mansions, old churches, and graceful homes, and try a tour of the historic district by horse-drawn carriage . It’s a delightfully old-school experience—you’ll be pulled along by the same kind of horse that worked American farms in the 1800s, while learning about the founding of the city.

• The French Quarter Inn
• Harbourview Inn

Utah’s National Parks: Arches, Zion, Bryce and More

Zion National Park

The Beehive State is home to so many beautiful parks and other stunning natural wonders that it can be a little tricky to narrow down your itinerary. One way to check off several points on your list in one go is this epic seven-day tour of some of the top protected wilderness areas in the country . Along the way, you’ll see Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Zion National Park, as part of a thrilling week of hiking and exploring the rock pillars, rivers, and cliffs this area has to offer.

• Grand America Hotel
• Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City

Ruby Beach: Olympic National Park, Washington

Ruby Beach is one of the most visited beaches along the coastline of Olympic National Park in Washington, and is well-known for its reddish sand and little islands of rock, known as ‘sea stacks’. The rugged shoreline, peppered with rocks and driftwood, makes for a memorable afternoon of beachcombing accompanied by gorgeous views.

• Lake Crescent Lodge
• Sol Duc Riverside Cottages

Snoqualmie Falls, Washington

Snoqualmie Falls

One of the most visited attractions in Washington state is Snoqualmie Falls , attracting more than 1.5 million people a year. The site includes a two-acre park, an observation deck, the Salish Lodge, and, of course, the beautiful 270-foot waterfall. A few tours in the area include visits to the falls, such as this falls and wineries tour and this excursion that also includes Seattle city center .

• Salish Lodge & Spa
• Inn at the Market

The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

One of the most iconic, easily recognizable landmarks in the US is the Golden Gate Bridge , stretching 4,200 feet and towering as high as a 65-story building. It’s an imposing monument and a marvel of engineering skill, as well as a gateway into San Francisco, but you don’t have to just admire it from afar. You could try this cruise departing from Fisherman’s Wharf and gliding close to the bridge, or a guided bike tour from San Fran to Sausalito, taking you right across the bridge itself.

• Lodge at the Presidio
• Omni San Francisco

Kiva Beach: South Lake Tahoe, California

Kiva Beach is a little bit of a hidden gem, and it’s totally worth the trip. Here you’ll get great views of the mountains around it, including Mount Tallac, and it’s also one of the few truly pet-friendly beaches in the area, making it a great place to enjoy the sun, surf, and sand with a furry four-legged companion.

• The Landing Resort & Spa
• Deerfield Lodge at Heavenly

Views From the Griffith Observatory: Los Angeles, California

Griffith Observatory

This public observatory is set on Mount Hollywood within Griffith Park, housing a planetarium, exhibits, public telescopes, and a bookstore. Walk around the back to get sweeping, unobstructed views of the Los Angeles skyline—especially breathtaking at night, when you can see the bright lights of the city sparkling in the distance. There’s a bust of actor James Dean on one side that’s positioned so you can capture it and the famous Hollywood sign in the same shot. The observatory is packaged in multiple tours that take in a variety of Los Angeles landmarks .

• The Beverly Hills Hotel
• Malibu Beach Inn

Yosemite National Park, California

Tucked into the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite National Park is known for the natural beauty of its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. Half Dome and El Capitan are two of the granite cliffs made famous by photographer Ansel Adams. Especially worth a visit are the 317-foot Vernal Fall , beautiful Mirror Lake , and Yosemite Falls , the fifth tallest waterfall in the world. The shops and restaurants of Yosemite Village are also popular.

• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Yosemite West High Sierra Bed and Breakfast

Bluebonnet Blooms: Spicewood, Texas (Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area)

Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area

Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area has plenty of active fun in store for visitors, including a 6.5-mile mountain bike trail. But if you’re after a beautiful display of nature at its best, come in the spring to see the ground blanketed in gorgeous bluebonnet wildflowers. There’s nothing quite like it to make you appreciate the dazzling colors of nature.

• Chanticleer Log Cabin
• Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin

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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

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36 Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024 (Monthly Inspiration)

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From mountain landscapes and tropical beaches to vibrant cities and charming small towns, the United States has a destination, landscape, and getaway that everyone will enjoy.

However, with so many incredible destinations to visit, there is just one challenge—narrowing down which to visit! Well, if you’re looking for somewhere to visit in the USA in 2024 and you’re just not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place!

I’ve teamed up with a team of knowledgeable travel experts to share the best places to visit in the USA in 2024 during every month and season to make planning your trip a breeze.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

USA Tourism Trends (2024)  

Before jumping into the best places to visit in the USA in 2024, let’s look at these statistics about tourism in the United States in 2024: 

• The average American plans to visit four different destinations in 2024.*
• 25% of U.S. travelers want to explore a new place, whereas 23% of travelers want to travel to somewhere they are already familiar with.*
• 46% of American travelers are interested in visiting destinations with historical ties to the American Revolution.*
• 39% of U.S. travelers have budgeted to spend more on travel in 2024 than in 2023.**
• 40% of U.S. travelers value the overall “vibe” of a destination when choosing where to travel in 2024.**
• 16% of U.S. travelers say the cost of hotels may determine their choice of destination in 2024.**
• 44% of U.S. travelers would fly a short distance to see their favorite musical artist live in 2024.**
• 29% of U.S. travelers use movies and television series as a source of travel inspiration in 2024.**
• 24% of U.S. travelers say their main priority for travel is to deepen their connection with themselves in 2024, and 64% of Americans say they feel like the “main character” when they travel.***
• Americans are the most likely globally to travel with pets, and 58% of Americans would bring their pets along on vacation to save on pet-sitting costs at home.***
• 62% of the global population plan to keep an eye out for travel hacks and deals to cut down on costs, and 50% plan to play for vacations on credit cards to spread out the cost.***
• 64% of American travelers value accommodations that are leading the charge in sustainability innovation (greater than the global average of 53%).***

* YMT Vacations || ** Skyscanner  || *** Booking.com

Best Places to Visit in the USA in 202 4

With those statistics in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the top destinations to visit in the USA in 2024. These destinations were hand-selected for each month because of the beautiful weather, fun events, activities, and things to do and to provide the perfect blend of big cities, winter adventures, beach getaways, and gorgeous landscapes. Without further ado, here is your USA travel bucket list for 2024, curated by travel experts from across the country!

Best Places to Visit in the USA in 202 4: January

Oahu, hawaii  .

• Average Weather: 78°F / 64°F 
• Where to Stay: Royal Hawaiian  

Oahu, Hawaii , is one of the best places to visit in the USA in January if you’d like to trade in the cold, snowy weather for a warm, sunny destination with sandy beaches and tropical rainforests! 

With so many awesome things to do in Oahu, like surfing, shopping, and sunbathing at Waikiki Beach , or exploring the snorkeling spots, waterfalls, and other adventures on the North Shore , you’ll never be bored during a trip to Oahu. There are plenty of free things to do on Oahu , like the Lanikai Pillbox Hike and Pearl Harbor National Memorial , so even if you’re traveling on a budget, you’ll find plenty of fun adventures that are easy on the wallet. You also can’t miss the chance to enjoy some of the best places to eat on Oahu , like Haleiwa Joe’s and Duke’s Waikiki. 

Oahu, Hawaii, also has plenty of luxury resorts across the island if you’d like to enjoy a beachfront vacation. Consider booking a room at the Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki, Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore, or Four Seasons Resort Oahu in Ko Olina. 

Contributed by Brittany from Travel by Brit

Denver, Colorado  

• Average Weather: 49 ° F / 20 ° F 
• Where to Stay: Sentral Union Station  

If you’ve always wanted to visit Denver, January is an opportune time to see the Mile High City. Denver’s climate is dry, and most days of the year have at least a few hours of sunshine, so it’s common to see surprisingly nice weather in January. Even if the weather is relatively warm during the day, nighttime temperatures are likely to be very cold, so always dress in layers.  

For visitors interested in Colorado’s western heritage and history, you can visit the National Western Stock Show , a massive event that takes place over the course of 16 days each January. The Stock Show is attended by over 500,000 people each year and includes events like rodeos, horse shows, working dog demonstrations, and much more.  In Downtown Denver, you can also go on a food-tasting tour or cocktail tour after a fun day at the stock show.

After you’ve explored Downtown Denver, you can spend a day or more skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing in one of Colorado’s famous ski resorts. Many of the resorts are easily accessible for a day trip from Denver, and you can save money by renting your gear in the city before you drive into the mountains. Other wonderful day trip destinations include Boulder, Fort Collins, and the Garden of the Gods near Colorado Springs.  You can even consider booking this Jeep Tour in Garden of the Gods to see the beautiful landscapes up close and personal—without being cold from the snow!

Contributed by Amber from Amber Everywhere  

Lake Tahoe, California  

• Average Weather:  42 ° F / 23 ° F 
• Where to Stay:   Marriott’s Timber Lodge

If you are looking for an epic snowy mountain getaway in 2024, then a trip to Lake Tahoe’s beautiful blue shores should be on the top of your list. The Tahoe Basin offers the perfect balance of a relaxing stay at lakeside accommodations in the woods and the exhilarating highs of carving up the slopes. 

Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountains are home to 15 ski resorts, including world-class facilities like Heavenly and Palisades, which hosted the Winter Olympics. You can spend your trip charging down black diamond runs, or you can take a little more kicked-back approach and try out some sledding or tubing at one of the area’s snow parks. For the adults, there is plenty of nightlife at the casinos, or you can check out some of Lake Tahoe’s craft breweries, like South of North Brewing Company. You can even go on a helicopter ride over Lake Tahoe !

Tahoe also offers up a lot of fun for the whole family, including ice skating at Northstar Village or taking a site seeing cruise aboard the M.S. Dixie paddle ship around the lake. With an average of 400 inches of snow and 300 sunshine-filled days per year, Tahoe is the perfect wintertime ski and play destination, making it one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024.

Contributed by Kristel from Chef Travel Guide

Best Places to Travel in the USA in 2024: February

From snowy mountain getaways and tropical beach vacations to President’s Day Weekend trips and Valentine’s Day vacations, check out this list of the best places to visit in February in the USA .

New Orleans, Louisiana  

• Average Weather:  66°F / 47°F
• Where to Stay:   The Eliza Jane by Hyatt

If you’d like to escape the winter blues, plan a weekend trip to New Orleans in February. New Orleans is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024, and this city knows how to party. In fact, it always throws the biggest “free” party of the year— Mardi Gras !  Mardi Gras is an age-old tradition that begins on January 6th and runs until Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent (usually in late February or early March). During the carnival season, people celebrate with “king cakes,” parades, and parties up and down Bourbon Street. 

If you want to visit New Orleans in February without participating in Mardi Gras, that’s not a problem! Indoor activities, like the National World War II Museum , are a must-do to avoid the (sometimes!) stormy weather, and a stroll around Jackson Square or a hop-on-hop-off bus tour in New Orleans when the weather is nice can’t be missed. You can also stop at Café Du Monde for delicious beignets and the iconic Carousel Bar & Lounge for a drink, or visit the historic Oak Alley Plantation and enjoy a thrilling airboat tour in the Barataria Basin on an all-inclusive tour!

Contributed by Mallory from Plaid Shirt Yoga Pants

Maui, Hawaii  

• Average Weather:  70°F / 55°F
• Where to Stay:   Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Maui is the perfect escape from the winter chill of the mainland and is easily one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024. February is one of the best times to visit the island of Maui, given it’s one of the best times to go on a whale-watching tour to see humpback whales. Thousands of these majestic creatures migrate from the chilly waters of the Arctic to the warm, shallow lagoons of Maui to breed and raise their calves. You’ll have an excellent chance of seeing mamas teaching their calves how to breach and other fascinating behaviors, like tail slapping and spouting, during your trip to Maui in February.

No trip to Maui would be complete without cruising along the Road to Hana , a 65-mile road that winds past incredible waterfalls and through some of the world’s most lust rainforests. Along the way, you’ll pass bamboo forests, more tropical fruit stands than you can count, and Honokalani, the most stunning black sand beach on Maui . While you’re in Maui, you also can’t miss the chance to go snorkeling at Molokini Crater —one of the top ten snorkeling destinations in the world!

Contributed by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Twin Cities, Minnesota  

• Average Weather:  27°F / 10°F
• Where to Stay:   Graduate Minneapolis

Minnesota is a winter wonderland when snow begins to fall each year—and February is one of the best times to visit if you’re a lover of winter sports. Around the Twin Cities, there are plenty of ski resorts nearby to fulfill your desire to hit the slopes. Just 40 minutes from the Twin Cities, you’ll find one of the most popular resorts, Afton Alps, which is an Epic Pass resort. If you’re a night owl, consider checking out Trollhaugen, a ski resort that offers some of the best night skiing and is open until 3 AM on Friday nights. Wild Mountain is another very popular resort near the Twin Cities that is right on the St. Croix River Valley.

Other things to do while in town include checking out Minneapolis’s great food scene, visiting the Mall of America , visiting the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium , and going snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

Contributed by Kassidy from Kassidy’s Journey

Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024: March

March is the season for spring break vacations and adventures on St. Patrick’s Day. Check out this list of the best places to visit in the USA in March to see where you should head during the first month of spring!

Sedona, Arizona  

• Average Weather: 69°F / 40°F 
• Where to Stay: Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock  

March is the ideal time to visit the breathtaking red rocks in Sedona, Arizona. Not only will you miss the summer tourists, but you’ll also miss the sweltering heat (which is a huge plus!). 

There are plenty of fun things to do in Sedona, AZ , from shopping at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Center and in Uptown Sedona to embarking on a Pink Jeep Tour through the red rocks. However, hitting the hiking trails is by far the best thing to do in Sedona. Soldier’s Pass, Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and West Fork Trail are some of the best hiking trails in Sedona , and each offers something completely unique—from bridges and caves to creeks and canyons.

When you’re finished hiking, drive a few miles to Cornville and Cottonwood to visit the wineries on the Verde Valley Wine Trail . Don’t miss D.A. Ranch and Page Springs Cellars! If you don’t want to worry about driving, you can go on this Verde Valley Wine Tour that includes transportation to four boutique wineries from Sedona! You can even add on a day trip to Jerome , known as North America’s largest ghost town, during your trip to Sedona. While you’re there, sit down for lunch or dinner at the Haunted Hamburger, and pay a visit to Nellie Bly’s Kaleidoscope Shop, the world’s largest kaleidoscope shop.

Contributed by Brittany from Travel by Brit  

Key West, Florida  

• Average Weather: 78°F / 70°F 
• Where to Stay: Ocean Key Resort and Spa  

March is the best time to visit Key West, Florida . Not only does this month fall out of hurricane season, but the weather isn’t too hot, and prices are slightly cheaper than during peak season. Plus, March is the spiny lobster season and a great time to sample this local delicacy before the harvest season ends in April.  

If you love parties, then March is the perfect time to visit Key West. The spring breakers tend to flock to the area to soak up the incredible weather, so be prepared for a younger crowd when visiting during this month. If you’re looking for a good time, you can enjoy this Sunset Party Cruise by Catamaran . You can also go on a tour for St. Patrick’s Day that includes green beer and special St. Patrick’s Day-inspired fare.

March is also a great time to explore the many homes in the historic Old Town during the annual Key West House and Garden Tour and, of course, to enjoy the beautiful tropical weather on a snorkeling tour , parasailing adventure , or food-tasting tour down Duval Street.

Contributed by Victoria from Florida Trippers  

Washington, D istrict of Columbia 

• Average Weather:  56°F / 35°F
• Where to Stay:   InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf

Washington, D.C., is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024—especially during March! The crowds have not yet started, and you won’t have to suffer through the intense humidity the city experiences during the summer months. Plus, you can catch the start of the cherry blossom season!

There are so many great things to do in Washington, D.C ., and the best part is—they are all free! You will want to check out the Natural History Museum, WWII Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, American History Museum, Lincoln Memorial, and, of course, make a stop at the White House. You also can’t miss the chance to pay your respects at Arlington Cemetary and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These places all offer unique insight into the background and history of the United States of America.

If you want to catch the beautiful cherry blossoms blooming, be sure to visit the last week of March. You can usually see the most gorgeous blooms at the National Mall framing the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial. And don’t miss the chance to see all the monuments gorgeously illuminated in the evening on the Monuments by Moonlight Trolley Tour .

Contributed by Candice from CS Ginger

Top Places to Travel in the USA in 2024: April

April is a beautiful time to travel for gorgeous spring weather and fun seasonal events. Check out this list of the best places to visit in the USA in April for more inspiration!

Savannah, Georgia  

• Average Weather: 78°F / 55°F 
• Where to Stay: The DeSoto Savannah  

April is arguably the best month of the year to visit Savannah, Georgia. You can enjoy sunny weather, seasonal events, and the peak of the blooming pink azaleas across the city. Most years, it’s even warm enough to enjoy a sunny beach day on Tybee Island! 

There are always plenty of fun things to do in Savannah , like strolling around Forsyth Park, taking a riverboat sightseeing cruise from River Street, exploring City Market, and going on a spooky ghost tour to some of the most haunted places in Savannah . However, there are also popular spring events, like the Sidewalk Arts Festival, Savannah Music Festival, and Forsyth Farmers Market, you can enjoy in April.

You also can’t miss the chance to grab a bite at some of the best places to eat in Savannah . Get breakfast at Collins Quarter or Mirabelle Savannah, lunch at Treylor Park, and dinner at The Olde Pink House. You’ll absolutely love the creative twists on classic southern food at these unique local restaurants! 

Charleston, South Carolina  

• Average Weather:  73°F / 59°F
• Where to Stay:   The Restoration Hotel

April is the perfect month to visit Charleston . The weather is beautiful, and the hot, sticky summer weather hasn’t set in. Charleston is a really fantastic destination thanks to the beautiful streets and buildings, the historical landmarks, boutique shopping, and so much delicious food. 

Be sure to wander around the French Quarter and admire all the candy-colored buildings and quaint cobblestoned streets. A few great spots here are the Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park, Rainbow Row, and the French Huguenot Church. Visit the Old Slave Mart Museum and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeons for some historical perspective, then walk down Broad Street and Queen Street. You can even go on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city to see these iconic sites.

Outside the city, you can also take one of the best day trips from Charleston to visit one of several historic plantations, marvel at the Angel Tree, take the ferry out to historic Fort Sumter , where the Civil War started, or visit the Patriot Point Museum (it’s on a WWII aircraft carrier and is a super cool museum). Since Charleston, SC, and Savannah, GA, are only a few hours apart, you could even combine these two cities together into an epic road trip during April 2024. 

Contributed by Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

Zion National Park , Utah  

• Average Weather: 70 ° F / 40 ° F 
• Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Express Springdale  

Zion National Park is home to a lot of great scenery and some of the best hikes in Utah. April is an especially good month to visit because it’s not as hot and busy as the summer months, which can be extremely crowded and toasty warm, but it’s not cold, snowy, and slippery either.

There are a lot of great things to do in Zion, like driving on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This is a scenic drive where you can enjoy some amazing views of the national park without doing any hiking! The most coveted bucket list item in Zion National Park is probably hiking Angel’s Landing, but there are also other great ones, like The Narrows and Observation Point, if the former trek is too challenging. If you really want to escape the crowds, go to the Kolob Canyons. This is the quiet side of the park, and most tourists skip it, but it has some very nice hiking trails without many people!

Contributed by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy  

Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024: May

Savor the last moments of spring or kick off your summer vacation early when you visit one of these best places to visit in the USA in May .

Louisville, Kentucky  

• Average Weather: 78°F / 56°F 
• Where to Stay: Hotel Distil  

There aren’t many places to visit in the USA in 2024 that are better than Louisville, Kentucky, in May. When it comes to popular travel destinations, Louisville, KY , may fly under the radar, but it is an excellent spot to visit if you love bourbon, horses, museums, and historical architecture! 

Louisville is home to the Kentucky Derby, which takes place during the first week of May, so if you can, plan to visit during this event for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Even if you can’t make it to the Kentucky Derby, you can still visit the Kentucky Debry Museum at Churchill Downs, one of the best museums in Louisville , to learn more about this iconic event. 

In addition to the Kentucky Derby, check out some of the  coolest things to do in Louisville at any time of year, like touring the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and eating at the most unique restaurants in Louisville , like Repeal-Oak Fired Steakhouse in the lobby of Hotel Distil . You can also take a full-day guided tour  of the distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail , like Maker’s Mark and Old Forester, to learn how bourbon is made (with tastings included, of course!).

Virginia Beach, Virginia  

• Average Weather: 76°F / 58°F 
• Where to Stay: Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront 

Virginia Beach is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024. If you are thinking about visiting Virginia Beach in 2024—you should try to come in May! May is the beginning of the busy season, and there are plenty of advantages to coming to Virginia Beach in late Spring. The weather is amazing, the beaches are not very crowded, and there is plenty to do! 

If you’re visiting in the middle of May, you can’t miss the Neptune Wine & Food Festival. This annual event happens right on the oceanfront, and if you stay at the Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront, it would be right next to your hotel! If you are traveling with children or car lovers, Monster on the Beach is another fun event where giant monster trucks drive around on the sandy shores of Virginia Beach. 

The Strawberry Festival is one of the most popular things to do in Virginia Beach in May. Locals and tourists alike wait for this amazing festival all year long! Virginia Beach celebrates the local strawberry farmers with a huge event. There are carnival rides, food stands, and a big parade. Of course, you can pick your own strawberries to enjoy during your trip too! 

Contributed by Abbey from Trips on Abbey Road  

Yosemite National Park, California  

• Average Weather: 77 ° F / 43 ° F 
• Where to Stay: The Ahwahnee  

Visiting Yosemite National Park in May is the perfect time of year to see this glorious outdoor playground at its very best. The snow that has covered the landscape all winter has now thawed, creating a steady stream of meltwater cascading over the mountain edges. These breathtaking waterfalls attract thousands of visitors to Yosemite National Park every year!

Walking trails lead around the park and are graded for all abilities. One circular walk that is easy for all the family leads through the forest to the mighty Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. To stand beside the falls and hear its thunderous roar is quite an experience. For the more adventurous, rock climbing and kayaking are two great activities to try.

Contributed by Angela from Where Angie Wanders  

Top Places to Visit in the USA in 2024: June

Hello, summer. We’ve been waiting all year for you! From beach vacations to national park adventures, check out this list of the best places to visit in the USA in June .

Juneau, Alaska  

• Average Weather: 64 ° F / 51 ° F 
• Where to Stay: Silverbow Inn Hotel & Suites  

June is an ideal month to visit Juneau, as it’s one of the driest times, and temperatures begin to rise. When visiting Juneau in June, you can’t go wrong with a humpback whale-watching tour , as most operators guarantee humpback whale sightings. However, for many, one of the highlights of an Alaska trip is dog sledding in Juneau . While expensive at around $600 per person, the tour combines some flightseeing by helicopter with a dog sled ride on one of Juneau’s glaciers. 

Alternatively, taking a 30-minute shuttle to Mendenhall Glacier allows you to see one of Alaska’s retreating glaciers. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even book a canoe tour of Mendenhall Glacier ! While the Mendenhall Glacier Park has numerous hikes, the one to Nugget Falls provides an easy route with almost no elevation gain. If you take the Mount Roberts Tramway 1,800 feet up the mountain, you’ll savor views over Juneau and the Gastineau Channel. The mountaintop still has snow in June, so dress appropriately if you want to hike. If you love seafood, check out Tracy’s Crab Shack, where you can try Snow, Dungeness, Red King, and Alaskan Brown King Crab. 

Contributed by Karen from Forever Karen  

Mackinac Island, Michigan  

• Average Weather: 70°F / 51°F 
• Where to Stay: Island House Hotel

Surrounded by the beautiful waters of Lake Huron, a  vacation to Mackinac Island , Michigan, is so serene and one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024. And there isn’t a better time to visit than in June when the weather is getting warmer, and the lilac trees are in full bloom. 

When you arrive, you’ll take a step back in time, as no cars are allowed on the island. The most popular ways to see all that Mackinac Island has to offer is by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage. While exploring the island, make sure to check out the Grand Hotel, Arch Rock, and Fort Mackinac. Don’t forget to treat yourself to some fudge at one of the many shops located in the main downtown area. 

Contributed by Jenn from Those Johnson Boys  

Asheville, North Carolina  

• Average Weather:  82°F / 61°F
• Where to Stay:   Element Asheville Downtown

Winding, green mountains sweep across the blue North Carolina sky for miles on end to form the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway. June brings vibrant greenery across the mountaintops with a sprinkle of pink wildflowers. It’s practically out of a fairytale! The Blue Ridge Parkway begins in North Carolina and runs through Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. It begins approximately 40 minutes outside of Downtown Asheville making it ideal for a combined road trip. Visitors of all interests will enjoy the sheer beauty simply from the comfort of your car, accessible pull-out stops, or taking a hike.   

After exploring Blue Ridge Parkway, catch a summer concert at the Orange Peel venue or wander through an outdoor concert in Asheville’s vast downtown scene. Hop in and out of eclectic, unique shops or get your competitive side on at the Pinball Museum. Explore the vibrant, urban scene of Asheville’s River Arts District while shopping or sipping a summer coffee, taking in all the fresh energy this town has to offer.

You should also plan to spend an entire day at the Biltmore Estate & Winery —the largest privately-owned home in America! You can spend an entire day touring the home, exploring the gardens, wine tasting at the winery, and eating at the restaurants nearby. With so much to do, there is no double Asheville is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024!

Contributed by Alyssa from An Apple a Plane  

Best Places to Travel in the USA in 2024: July

Portland, maine  .

• Average Weather: 79°F / 59°F 
• Where to Stay: Portland Regency Hotel & Spa 

Portland, Maine, may experience cold, wet, snowy weather most of the year—but in the summer, the glorious sunshine and cool breezes easily make this coastal town one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024! There are tons of amazing things to do in Portland, Maine , during the summer. You can explore Fort Williams Park, where you can see the famous Portland Head Light, shop at Old Port, or embark on a boat ride or sailing adventure from Casco Bay. You also should try a potato donut from The Holy Donut and a lobster roll from Eventide Oyster Co.—or go on a food tour to sample the best of Portland!

If you enjoy beer, you should also go on a self-guided brewery tour to sample beer from some of the  best craft breweries in Portland, Maine . Known throughout New England, Allagash Brewing Company is a must-visit, but Foundation Brewing Company, Bissell Brothers Brewing Company, and Lone Pine Brewing Company are some other local spots you should check out! If you don’t want to worry about driving or don’t have a car, you can take a guided brewery tour instead.

Temecula, California  

• Average Weather: 99°F / 60°F 
• Where to Stay: Carter Estate Winery & Resort 

While wine regions like Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley may be better known, Temecula, California, is one of the best wine regions in California, boasting 50+ incredible local wineries and other fun things to do in Temecula , like horseback riding and hot air balloon rides over wine country.

During a summer trip to Temecula, first and foremost, you must check out some of the best wineries in Temecula . In July, all the vineyards are lush, green, and beautiful, so they provide the perfect opportunity for photos. Wilson Creek Winery, Somerset Vineyard & Winery, Leoness Cellars, and Robert Renzoni Vineyards are all spectacular spots to visit. You can even go on an all-inclusive winery tour with lunch for an effortless experience exploring Temecula’s wine country.

After wine tasting, head into Old Town Temecula, where you can shop at local boutiques, sample olive oil, learn how to line dance at the Temecula Stampede, or eat at some of the best restaurants in Old Town Temecula , like 1909 Temecula, The Goat & Vine, and Blackbird Tavern. 

Burlington, Vermont  

• Average Weather: 81 ° F / 60 ° F 
• Where to Stay: Hotel Vermont Burlington  

Burlington, Vermont, is known for its farm-to-table dining scene, beautiful lakeside scenery, and outdoor adventures—especially its incredible nearby hiking trails! Come July, the city is overflowing with excited tourists ready to window shop along the famed Church Street or enjoy the gorgeous views as they paddle around Lake Champlain. 

Stop into Maudite Poutine for the best batch of poutine south of Quebec City and pick up a big scoop of freshly made gelato from Lake Champlain Chocolates! Before heading back to your hotel, take a stroll along the lovely Waterfront Park or brush up on your history at the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and Historic Site. If you plan on making your trip to Burlington a stopping point on your way to Montreal or Quebec, be sure to read up on some popular French phrases before you go! 

Contributed by Emily from Emily Embarks  

Top Places to Visit in the USA in 2024: August

Squeeze in one last summer getaway before the weather cools down. This list of the best places to visit in the USA in August is filled with warm, dry, and sunny destinations!

Kansas City, Missouri  

• Average Weather: 88°F / 69°F 
• Where to Stay: Loews Kansas City 

Kansas City is easily one of the most underrated (and best!) places to visit in the USA in 2024—especially during the month of August when you can enjoy warm weather and minimal rain. 

There are tons of fun things to do in Kansas City that appeal to all types of travelers. If you love history, you can visit the city’s two world-class museums, the World War I Museum & Memorial and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. If you love murals, you can go on a photo scavenger hunt for murals around the city. If you love trying new cocktail bars or breweries, you can visit Mean Mule Distilling Company or Boulevard Brewing Company. If you love shopping, you can walk around the beautiful Country Club Plaza. 

Of course, you can’t miss stopping at some of the best places to eat in Kansas City , like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, where you can enjoy the meal that the town is famous for! You can also grab a room at a hotel in Downtown Kansas City , like Loews Kansas City or the 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City , to be within walking distance of all the action. 

Nantucket, Massachusetts  

• Average Weather: 79°F / 63°F 
• Where to Stay: Hotel Pippa  

Nantucket is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024 for a relaxing island break in August. The island has a vibrant end-of-summer vibe, and the weather is usually nice and perfect for cycling around the island. Nantucket has an excellent network of cycling trails across the island which means you can discover the whole island without a car. 

Whether you go on a  day trip to Nantucket  or spend a week, there are enough things to do to keep you busy! Head to Siasconset to see some of the oldest cottages on the island, walk the Sconset Bluff Walk to Sankaty Head Lighthouse, or relax at the beach. August is also a great month for humpback whale watching in Nantucket. Every year, Nantucket organizes different events, so it is worth checking out what happens before booking your ticket so that you don’t miss out on anything. You can easily reach the island by plane or by ferry from Harwich Port in Cape Cod or Hyannis.

Contributed by Linn of Brainy Backpackers  

North Cascades National Park, Washington  

• Average Weather:  54°F / 30°F
• Where to Stay:   Ross Lake Resort

If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful mountain views with fewer crowds than some of the other national parks, look no further than North Cascades National Park in Washington. August is the ideal month for visitors to experience the magic of the Cascade Mountain Range since temperatures are warm and the snow is melted off of most trails.

During August, you’ll get to see this park mostly snow-free, which is a rare occurrence. Visitors can confidently take a drive on the North Cascades Highway without having to worry about road conditions. While driving through the park, stop at Diablo Lake Overlook and Washington Pass Overlook, which are two of the park’s most beautiful viewpoints. For hikers, check out Heather-Maple Pass Loop, Thunder Knob, and Blue Lake for some of the best hiking in Washington , but keep an eye out for wildlife. Marmots and mountain goats roam the mountains and may easily be spotted in the summer months.

You can also plan to extend your trip to North Cascades National Park to include a few days in Seattle or explore Olympic National Park or Mount Rainier National Park , the other national parks in Washington!

Contributed by Kassidy from The Hiking Helper

Best Places to Travel in the USA in 2024: September

Whether you want to hang on to the last bit of summer with a warm beach vacation or get an early start to fall adventures with a cozy leaf-peeping trip, you can have the best of both worlds with this list of the best places to visit in the USA in September .

Newport, Rhode Island  

• Average Weather: 71°F / 58°F 
• Where to Stay: Hammets Hotel  

There isn’t a better time to visit Newport, Rhode Island, than September. While the summer crowds have left the beaches, the temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy them, and the attractions haven’t quite closed for the winter. There are tons of fun things to do in Newport, Rhode Island , in September, including touring the Newport Mansions , like The Breakers or The Elms, shopping on Thames Street or Bellevue Avenue, strolling along the scenic Cliff Walk, or going on sailing tours from Narragansett Bay . You can also enjoy spectacular meals at some of the best restaurants in Newport , including the Mooring Seafood Kitchen & Bar, CRU Café, and Pasta Beach.  

There are tons of luxury hotels in Newport, Rhode Island , that are perfect for a family vacation, romantic honeymoon, or bachelorette party. Consider booking a room at Hammets Hotel , The Chanler at Cliff Walk , or Newport Harbor Island Resort .

San Diego, California  

• Average Weather: 77°F / 66°F 
• Where to Stay: The Lodge at Torrey Pines 

San Diego is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024 during the month of September. During this time of the year, the weather is perfect, and there are tons of fun things to do in San Diego to make your trip unforgettable. For example, you can soak up the sun or jump into the refreshing Pacific Ocean at one of the many gorgeous beaches in San Diego, like Coronado Beach on Coronado Island . Or, if you want to get your heart rate up and opt for something more exhilarating, take a surfing lesson to try your hand at surfing. San Diego is home to some of the best surf in the world ! 

There are plenty of other fun things to do in San Diego, like the San Diego Zoo , Balboa Park, and the USS Midway Museum . If you want to do some boutique shopping or are looking for good places to eat, head to La Jolla. You’ll find some of the best food that San Diego has to offer here, such as Duke’s La Jolla, and you can even go sea kayaking if you’re looking for something adventurous to try. And, of course, make sure to stop by and say hello to the adorable sea lions at La Jolla Cove while you’re in town!

Contributed by Kristin Lee from Global Travel Escapades  

Breckenridge, Colorado  

• Average Weather:  63°F / 48°F
• Where to Stay:   Gravity Haus

Breckenridge , Colorado, has something to offer virtually any month of the year, but September is the secret season. Summer crowds have disappeared, and it’ll be months before the snow and skiers arrive. Thanks to Breckenridge’s high altitude, leaf peeping here pops much earlier than in other U.S. destinations. If you want to hit it perfectly, plan to visit the third or fourth week of September. The aspens light up the hillside, and it looks like someone took a yellow highlighter and swept it across the landscape in every direction. It’s one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024 for leaf peeping!

There are dozens of incredible hikes that you can take in the fall foliage, whether you’re just looking for an easy walk or a more strenuous climb. Aspen Alley is a fall favorite because it can be easy or a workout, depending on whether you hike it from the top or the bottom. If you come in late September, you can also catch Breckenridge’s annual Oktoberfest. The town shuts down Main Street for a Munich-style street party. Grab their annual collectible stein and spend an entire weekend enjoying the beer, food, and music.

Plan to wear layers for warm sunny days and chilly fall nights, and don’t forget to pack your camera so you can capture all the spectacular views.

  Contributed by Kristi from Travel By Vacation Rental

Top Places to Travel in the USA in 2024: October  

Cozy sweaters, hot lattes, apple orchards, pumpkin patches, crunchy fall leaves, and brisk mornings. These are just a few of the things that come to mind when I think about these best places to travel in the USA in October !

Boston, Massachusetts  

• Average Weather: 62°F / 47°F 
• Where to Stay:   The Godfrey Hotel Boston

If you’re searching for a charming fall wonderland and one of the best places to travel in the USA in 2024—look no further than Boston, Massachusetts, in October. While you’re here, you’ll enjoy warm days and cool nights, historic architecture, and gorgeously breathtaking fall colors! 

In the city, you can’t miss the chance to take a walking tour of the Freedom Trai l to see popular sites like the Boston Common and the Old South Meeting House. You also must head over to the North End to take an Italian food tour with North End Boston Food Tours . Other fun things to do in Boston include touring the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum , strolling around the Boston Public Garden, visiting Fenway Park , and snapping a photo of Acorn Street in Beacon Hill. 

There are also tons of amazing day trips from Boston you can take to soak in the gorgeous fall foliage or string a few destinations together for an epic road trip . Consider driving to Plymouth, MA , and visiting the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, driving through Portsmouth, NH , and the Kancamagus Highway for some leaf peeping, or venturing into Lexington and Concord to learn more about Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride! 

Acadia National Park, Maine  

• Average Weather:  55°F / 70°F
• Where to Stay:   Yellow House Inn

One of the most magical places in the United States to visit in October is Acadia National Park. As one of the main stops on a New England fall road trip, you’ll sip on hot cider, enjoy prime hiking weather, and awe at the ruby red, vibrant orange, and golden falling leaves.

The most ideal way to get out and experience the most dramatic falls in the world is on any of Acadia’s hiking trails. With all the  day hiking essentials , check out the Precipe Trail, Beehive Trail, and Jordan Pond Trail for panoramic vistas over the mountains, lakes, and eastern coastline. The Ocean Path is especially spectacular for a nice oceanside stroll. And, of course, you must experience the iconic sunrise at Cadillac Mountain. This mountain is the first spot in the country where the sun hits, so you can witness the very first sunrise in the United States.

No trip to Acadia is complete without a visit to Bar Harbor. This quaint town has that quintessential New England charm that you’ll fall in love with. The whale-watching tours, butter-filled lobster rolls, and endless lines of shops draw hikers in after a long day exploring the park, and the warmth of the town keeps them in for the night before a new day of exploring.

Contributed by Aaren from What Do You Sea

Santa Fe, New Mexico  

• Average Weather:  67°F / 35°F
• Where to Stay:   La Fonda on the Plaza

With cooler temperatures, fewer visitors, and lower hotel prices, October is an ideal month to visit Santa Fe. It’s also when New Mexico’s capital offers some special events to make it particularly inviting. 

Since 1999, the Santa Fe International Film Festival has been screening some of the most exciting international and independent films. The Santa Fe Studio Tour invites art aficionados to visit the workplaces of local artists to see and purchase art in the settings where it is created. And just an hour away, Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta has been attracting hot-air balloon enthusiasts for more than 50 years during October. You can also see the gorgeous fall colors, including the yellow aspen trees, in Santa Fe at the beginning of October!

No matter when you visit, Santa Fe serves up an incredible foodie experience, offering a delectable cuisine that showcases a unique blend of Mexican, Native American, and Anglo influences. Many of the  best restaurants in Santa Fe  are near the Santa Fe Plaza, the city’s historic heart and soul. No matter how you work up your hunger in Santa Fe, satisfying it will make for a lasting memory of this gem of the Southwest.

Contributed by Denise from Chef Denise

Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024: November

Whether you want to hold on to the last bit of fall or get an early start celebrating the holiday season, this list of the best places to visit in the USA in November will help you do just that!

Nashville, Tennessee  

• Average Weather: 61°F / 40°F 
• Where to Stay: Graduate Nashville 

Nashville, Tennessee, is a fun destination at all times of the year, but it’s an especially great place to visit in the USA in 2024. By late fall, the humidity in Nashville has lifted, and you can enjoy many attractions, like Broadway Street and Centennial Park , without the crowds. 

There are so many amazing things to do in Nashville during your trip! During the day, check out popular tourist attractions to learn more about Nashville’s country music history and culture, like the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum and the Grand Ole Opry . When you’re done sightseeing, you can head to popular neighborhoods, like 12 South and The Gulch, to take photos in front of the most popular murals in Nashville , like the “I Believe in Nashville” mural. 

There are plenty of fun places to eat in Nashville , including brunch at Biscuit Love, Frothy Monkey, or Poindexter Coffee and dinner at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Pharmacy Burger, or the Grilled Cheeserie. If you’d like, you can even take a day trip from Nashville to a nearby city, like Franklin, Tennessee , or Knoxville, Tennessee, to get a taste of the south! 

Walt Disney World, Florida  

• Average Weather:  78°F / 59°F 
• Where to Stay:   Holiday Inn Orlando – Disney Springs

There is no doubt that one of the best places to visit the USA in 2024 is Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida! Whether you’re  taking your toddlers to Disney,  your teenagers, or going on an adults-only trip, there is something to do for everyone. 

November is a particularly fantastic time to visit Walt Disney World for a few reasons. First and foremost, the weather is finally turning! Disney World in the scorching heat can be tough, but November in Disney offers more temperate weather and smaller crowds, so you can grab a park hopper ticket to see Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. On top of that, visitors to Disney World are bound to catch some incredible events. During the beginning of the month, festivities for Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival are still going strong. Plus, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins at Magic Kingdom, and the holiday decorations start popping up around the parks on November 1st.

While you’re in Orlando, check out some other popular attractions, like Disney Springs, Universal Studios , Kennedy Space Center , SeaWorld Orlando , and more!

Contributed by Taylor from Traverse with Taylor

Red Rock Canyon, Nevada  

• Average Weather: 70°F / 48°F 
• Where to Stay: JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa  

One place that you won’t want to miss out on visiting in November is Red Rock Canyon. During November, the desert region experiences goldilocks weather. This means you can avoid the 100°F summer days as well as the freezing cold winter season!  

The National Conversation Area is a short drive from the Las Vegas Strip, so it offers the perfect getaway after spending some time in Downtown Vegas. Plus, Red Rock Canyon is filled with lots of activities suitable for anyone. For instance, there are tons of hiking trails that range from easy to difficult and offer beautiful views of the desert landscape. And if you’re keen on doing something more adventurous, such as experiencing the famous red rocks up close, consider rock climbing! There are routes available even for complete beginners!  

Top Places to See in the USA in 2024: December

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! If you want to visit somewhere festive and fun this holiday season, check out this list of the best places to visit in the USA in December .

New York City, New York  

• Average Weather:  44°F / 31°F
• Where to Stay:   The Plaza

Regardless of when you visit, it’s safe to say that New York City, or the “Big Apple,” is one of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024. However, December in New York City is the most magical time to visit because you get to enjoy everything that makes NYC special, with the holiday spirit as the cherry on top!

Some of the most iconic things to do during a visit to NYC during this time include visiting the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, seeing the Rockettes perform at Radio City , viewing the big store holiday windows, and ice skating in Central Park. If that wasn’t enough, you can also visit the Bryant Park Winter Village for more ice skating, holiday markets, toasty igloos, and many food vendors. If you really love Christmas decorations, then you should also head to Dyker Heights, Brooklyn . They are known for having extravagant Christmas decorations for people to enjoy. Also, consider staying at The Plaza , one of the filming locations for Home Alone 2: Lost in New York , for more holiday cheer!

Contributed by Sam from Find Love & Travel

Branson, Missouri  

• Average Weather:  45°F / 26°F
• Where to Stay:   AmericInn by Wyndham

If you are looking for a family-friendly Christmas destination, you do not want to miss Branson, Missouri. While other top Christmas destinations in the USA are often very cold and snowy, Branson isn’t quite as cold and rarely snows. It makes doing all the holiday activities much more enjoyable. 

Speaking of holiday activities, there are so many things to do in Branson in December . Branson is known as a great city for world-class shows. At the end of the year, the majority of the shows transform into magical holiday-themed shows. Silver Dollar City, a big amusement park in Branson, MO, also has a fun holiday festival. The festival includes millions of lights, a holiday parade, a sing-along train ride, holiday shows, and amazing Christmas decorations. 

Head to Dick’s 5 & 10 old-fashioned variety store in the historic downtown, to find some Christmas presents. When you’re downtown, you’ll also want to hop on the Polar Express! This seasonal train ride is a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Along with all the holiday activities in Branson, the city is also full of great places to eat, like Farmhouse Restaurant and Gettin’ Basted.

Contributed by Elizabeth from The Fearless Foreigner

Door County, Wisconsin  

• Average Weather:  32°F / 21°F
• Where to Stay:   Snug Harbor Inn

December is a fabulous time to visit Door County, WI if you’d like to enjoy the holidays in a winter wonderland! There are tons of fun things to do in Door County during this time of year, like snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, or even walking along a beautiful frozen beach to catch a stunning sunrise or sunset.

If you’re looking to stay warm inside, you can stop at a local brewery, like One Barrel Brewing Company or Door County Brewing Co. Taproom, or try an art class or cooking class. You also can’t miss out on dining in at the Wisconsin Supper Club, one of the  best things to do in Door County in winter . If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, don’t miss Christmas by the Bay, Holly Days, and the Door County Christmas Market!

Contributed by Paulina from Paulina on the Road

Plan Your 2024 Vacation with These Best Places to Visit in the USA in 202 4

Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter getaway, spring sunshine vacation, a summer city adventure, or a leaf-peeping fall road trip, you’ll find all that (and more!) on this list of the best places to visit in the USA in 2024. Which of these destinations are on your bucket list for 2024? Let me know in the comments!

Save the Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024 for Your Next Vacation!

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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20 Best Places To Visit in April USA (2024)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

April is a beautiful time to visit the USA . It is a shoulder season, meaning the entire country is in its transition phase — be that squeezing in its last month of ski slopes or bursting with freshly bloomed wildflowers. Early April typically falls under Spring Break dates, but mid-April through to the end of the month has fewer people. This is definitely one of the reasons that we tend to visit the US during the spring months it means you can really choose your atmosphere when picking places to visit during this time of the year. One thing we noticed after visiting these places in April is that, depending on the specific dates you choose, you either join the crowds or enjoy a quiet period before busy summer dates.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in April in the USA

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in April in the USA. Whether you want to chase wildflowers in the Texas Hill Country or live it up at Coachella, we’ll find the sweet spot for you. Here are our hottest takes on where to visit this April.

1. Oahu, HI

Oahu is the capital of Hawaii, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that it runs most of its events and festivities. This is one of the main reasons we suggest Oahu for your April trip. You have the Hawaiian Scottish Festival & Highland Games (pretty incongruous, right?), arts and craft fairs, live music performances, culinary and beer events, and Hapalua – Hawaii’s half marathon. Oahu is really in its prime in spring, especially in April.

Aside from these seasonal events, you’ve got the beautiful Diamond Head State Monument, Lana’i Lookout, and all the sightseeing in the capital, Honolulu. You can  hike,  go sightseeing at places like the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, and celebrate;  Oahu just has so much to do.  Oahu is easily one of the  best islands in Hawaii , and that’s before factoring in its April festivities. Once Spring Break is over, you also enter a quick shoulder season before the summer season starts from May until October. Who doesn’t love fewer crowds?

In April, Oahu’s weather ranges from the mid-60s to just touching the 80s, and winter rainfall is a thing of the past. It’s an ideal time to visit for good weather and even better vibes.

2. Zion National Park, UT

We love Zion National Park. It is one of the national parks we most frequently recommend, just because of its  iconic hiking trails  like Angels Landing and how beautiful it is to drive. We loved visiting in April for many reasons, including driving the surrounding roads, passing through tunnels cut into red sandstone cliffs, and pausing at gorgeous overlooks.

April is also an optimal time to tackle some of those challenging trails in milder temperatures, which hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the month. You can hike to the Emerald Pools and walk to the Temple of Sinewava. If you’re feeling brave, you can even tackle Angels Landing; it’s much less complicated without the ice but equally better before the dizzying heat of the summer months.

The only trail you’ll have to keep an eye on is the Narrows. This trail can be closed at any time due to rising levels from snow melt, so in spring, you may still see some closures. In our opinion, it’s a small price to pay. Thanks to its Angels Landing lottery system, Zion is a “see what you can hike” type of destination. For extra tips on accommodation logistics, we’ll link our guide on where to stay in Zion here . Zion is a great place to visit in spring. Mid to late April has fewer people so you can enjoy trails in easier conditions.

3. Sedona, AZ

Sedona is another one of our firm favorites. We’ve actually listed it as one of our  top romantic destinations in the whole of the USA.  The Arizona desert town is film set worthy, with dramatic red-rock buttes and fragrant pine forests. And in April, you can visit in that perfect shoulder season between winter, with its heavy snowfall and busy skiing, and summer, with heavy crowds and heat. Instead, you get easily accessible hiking trails with the option to ski at nearby Flagstaff , where the ski season typically ends at the end of April.

You will dodge not one but two peak seasons while actually seeing the town in a better light. You’ll be in the perfect season for  hiking trails  like the Devil’s Bridge and UNESCO World Heritage Site  attractions like Montezuma Castle.  However, you’ll also still be able to enjoy snow activities just an hour’s drive north. Sedona is perfect for an April trip.

4. Anchorage, AK

April is the perfect excuse to visit Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska. The city sits on the Cook Inlet and is best accessed by air or water. In April, you’ll be able to catch events like the Anchorage Folk Festival and see the city in its ultimate shoulder season.

And why should you care about Alaska’s best shoulder season? Well, April’s shoulder activities include the final month of the Anchorage ski season, the return of the grey whales, the last month of the auroras, and cheaper activity deals – like sightseeing flights. It is the perfect time to get the last bucket list experiences of the Alaskan winter while bagging seasonal transition experiences like whale spotting.

Anchorage is one of the best places to visit in April for nature lovers who also want an accessible city break. It offers some of Alaska’s best activities, such as skiing and dining.

5. Washington DC

This city is the nation’s capital, and needless to say, it has a lot of  things to do and see . You could walk the National Mall and explore all of  Washington DC’s museums . You can visit the White House and embrace all the political and social history born and instigated in this poignant city. However, most importantly, for those visiting in April, you should attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

From late March to April, the city celebrates the blooming of its cherry blossoms. The 3,000-plus cherry blossom trees are spread all around the Tidal Basin and were gifted to the USA in 1912 by the then Prime Minister of Japan. Each year, Washington DC now celebrates their blooming and this historic gift between countries. Plenty of activities and events are lined up, including parades, art events and workshops, and food stands.

We’d definitely recommend visiting Washington, DC, to anyone, but in April, it is undoubtedly even more special. You have the awe factor of seeing thousands of pink trees, with scenic parks covered in millions of soft petals.

6. Ennis, TX

If you want spring flowers, Ennis is our top suggestion. This beautiful city is actually dubbed the ‘Official Bluebonnet City and Trail of Texas’ as it is surrounded by such a high volume of vibrant fields of electric blue-purple flowers. It is the absolute crown of Texas Hill Country, and if you visit in April, you’ll catch it in full bloom; it’s the perfect time to schedule a trip to Texas.

The bluebonnets start to bloom in late March and last until early May, so April is a lovely time to experience the flowers in full bloom. It is also when the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails Festival runs. The Festival features over 40 miles of mapped driving trails and showcases a natural wildflower show. It is a brilliant way to have the convenience of an organized experience and a nice time to join a sense of community celebration and excitement.

Needless to say, Ennis is also blessed by warm weather in April. You’ve got to love Texas for a bit of early sunshine. The city definitely gets our vote; besides, the flowers will be gone by the summer months. Ennis is a destination where you’ve got to book now or forever hold your peace.

7. Door County, WI

Door County is a beautiful addition to the USA’s tourism scene, and we love it. The region sits between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. It has one of the highest concentrations of lighthouses along its miles of rugged shoreline. Door County is also covered in parks like Peninsula State Park and Newport State Park; it actually has five state parks in total, which is impressive for such a small area. In April, it has mild weather, and its layout makes it the perfect place for hikes along the waterfront – spotting lighthouses as you go.

April is a definite shoulder season, with Door County at its busiest from May until October. Because of this, it’s a fantastic time to jump in and enjoy its trails with fewer crowds. We’d particularly recommend seeing Eagle Bluff Lighthouse at Peninsula State Park. But if you get a blustery day, check out the waves at Cave Point Country Park, which overlooks Lake Michigan.

If you need more ideas for exploring Door County, check out its wineries. It has a surprising talent for wine production. In summary, Door County is ideal for walks along the lakes, with lighthouses to spot and wineries to drink at—all with fewer crowds in April.

8. Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, CA

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is a trip to start planning if you love seeing gorgeous flora. Get ready to see poppies galore at this Californian state reserve. April marks the peak bloom of waves of bright orange-red poppy fields. The nature reserve is one of the prettiest places for tourists to see wildflowers in the entire USA, and April is the best month to see them full of life.

The reserve is just outside of Los Angeles , making it a super accessible place to visit in April  if  you organize a car rental . It is situated just outside the small city of Lancaster, known as the gateway to the Mojave Desert.

We’d suggest hiring a car and driving the 1.5 hours to the reserve, which isn’t otherwise reachable by public transport. The short drive takes you inland and through the Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, so it’s worth the short road trip just for your views. As you get close, you’ll see the flower fields on the horizon and poppies building up along the roadside.

9. Seattle, WA

Seattle absolutely strolled its way onto this guide, as it is easily one of the best cities to visit in April. The city sits tucked away in northern Washington, right under the Canada border and on the Puget Sound. It’s surrounded by water, mountains, and forests and is an easy  day trip  from  Olympic National Park.  It is basically the best city if you want a base for outdoor adventures. And while March is still a bit drizzly and cold, April brings the ideal warm weather to take advantage of all the nearby natural beauty before the crowds of the summer months.

You can go on a day trip to the Olympic National Park and hike the Hall of Mosses or Hurricane Hill. You could head south and visit Mount Rainier National Park or west for Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. You could even head further northwest and see North Cascades National Park. Or you could cruise the Puget Sound and spot wildlife like whales.

Of course, there’s also the Space Needle, Museum of Flight, and Freemont Troll to visit. The city has many sightseeing opportunities that are much quieter when you visit from mid to late April. It’s a great time to dodge the tourists.

10. Blue Ridge Parkway National Park, NC

Blue Ridge Parkway is the longest linear park in the USA and stretches 469 miles from North Carolina to Virginia. It is one of the most famous road trips to take in the country and is famed for its stops along the way, with plenty of towns with farm-to-table restaurants and hiking trails for outdoor adventure. Blue Ridge Parkway gets busy from May onwards throughout summer and again in fall because of its fall foliage, so visit in April to get the park in a quiet spell. Crisp and quiet, April is a really serene time to experience Blue Ridge.

Wrap up a little warmer to cope with the dropping temperatures with elevation, and keep an eye on the weather forecast, as at the beginning of April, you can still see snow in some parts. But otherwise, just embrace quieter roads and famously beautiful scenery. You can stop at attractions like the Blue Ridge Music Center, Crabtree Falls, and Linn Cove Viaduct. You’ll want a minimum of two to three days to drive the route, and if you enjoy camping and hiking trails, then you could spend as long as a week completing the drive. Blue Ridge Parkway is a great spring road trip for April.

11. Miami, FL

Miami is one of the best places to visit in April, and we didn’t want to penalize it just because of its popularity. The city is a bit of a victim of its own success. But it is definitely worth the hype, and the sunny weather speaks for itself. The pristine beaches in nearby state parks like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park scream “beach holiday” – just check out these  best beaches in and around Miami  if you don’t believe us. You can strut down art deco South Beach or check out downtown art galleries. And that’s before you get a taste of Miami’s party culture and all the day trips to places like the Everglades.

In April, you have two choices: join the crowds or beat them. You can avoid the March crowds and Spring Breaker’s fever by visiting after the tail end of Spring Break for fewer people. You can also embrace the sociable atmosphere of Spring Break in Miami, meeting new people and partying. Just decide which end of April best suits you based on what you want from Miami. We like how clear-cut it is.

Miami has nearly year-round sunshine, but April offers a great experience before the super-hot and busy summer. To summarize, early April is best for partygoers wanting a busy Miami experience for Spring Break, while mid to late April is best for those wanting shoulder season Miami with plenty of beaches and nice weather.

12. Palm Springs, CA

Palm Springs is a fascinating city in the Sonoran Desert, inland of Los Angeles, known for stylish shopping opportunities, high-end golf courses, and luxury spas . If you want a luxury getaway this April, we’d recommend trying Palm Springs. The glitzy desert getaway is an elegant choice and definitely one for shopping lovers wanting a slight variation on the standard city break.

Of course, mentioning Palm Springs and not Coachella would be remiss. For those living under a rock, Coachella is one of the biggest live music festivals in the world. It is held in the town of Indio, which is essentially adjoined to Palm Springs – like a smaller city suburb. Coachella runs sometime from mid to the end of April, with exact dates switching each year. It runs over two separate weekends, with two lots of three days of performances and celebrations. It has everything from indie music to the latest pop artists. In 2023, the Coachella stages saw everyone from Bad Bunny to Post Malone and Blink 182.

If Coachella or Palm Springs sounds up your alley, we’d definitely suggest combining the two. It is a dreamy way to spend a week or two. And if you want a festival experience this April, you should start ticket shopping.

13. Santa Catalina Island, CA

Santa Catalina Island is gorgeous and located just 22 miles off the coastline of California. As far as islands go, this little beauty is about as accessible as they come, easily reached by air or sea. Unsurprisingly, the island does get busy with heaps of excited tourists; word travels fast about incredible holiday destinations in the USA. Luckily, that’s where April comes in.

April is the first proper month you can enjoy outdoor activities on Santa Catalina Island since winter, with mild temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has way less rain than February or March, which again is excellent for hiking. Finally, April is a prime time to visit Santa Catalina because most people descend on the island in summer. You don’t want to feel overrun by tourists when visiting islands, and Santa Catalina Island is no different.

Spring Break undoubtedly brings the tourist numbers up a little (although nowhere near as high as in summer still), so we’d suggest aiming to visit in the second half of the month. You can enjoy sightseeing attractions like the Catalina Chimes Tower, the Catalina Museum For Art & History, and the Wrigley Memorial. The Garden to Sky Summit is also a beautiful hike you should try, leading you up to a hill summit for gorgeous island views. April is the perfect month to enjoy Santa Catalina’s trails again.

14. Sun Valley, ID

Sun Valley is where to go for ski slopes and wildflower meadows, and if that isn’t the perfect combination, we don’t know what is. The resort town is situated in central Idaho, on the outskirts of the Boise National Forest. It is flanked by Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain, two major ski areas that remain open until April. You can head there during Spring Break for a buzzier atmosphere or make the most of the quiet in the last couple of weeks before ski slope closures.

When you aren’t enjoying the last of the skiing, you can enjoy the meadows at lower elevations, which have shaken off their snow and are starting to showcase beautiful wildflowers. Croy Canyon is always a good choice and is one of the earliest areas to bloom. Sawtooth Botanical Garden is a good non-natural place to embrace flora, too. You can always go on a day trip to the Boise National Forest for scenic trails or to the Craters of the Moon National Park to see the incredible dormant lava fields.

Sun Valley is a fantastic place to visit in April to see the back end of the ski season. It also has other fun offerings, like wildflowers starting to emerge and the lava fields in nearby Craters of the Moon.

15. Jackson County, NC

Jackson County is beautiful, bordering 45 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, but it also offers its own beauty. The county has a selection of really serene mountain towns, including Cashiers, Cherokee, and Slyva. It has its own Forest Therapy Trail, which spans 1,500 acres in Sylva. It also has cultural attractions like the Appalachian Women’s Museum and the Museum of the Cherokee People. Jackson County is full of greenery and natural beauty, from Indian Creek Falls to Soco Falls and hiking trails galore.

Jackson County in North Carolina is relatively sleepy and an underdog in the tourism scene. While most people rush to the nearby Great Smoky Mountains or the Appalachian Mountains, we’d suggest slowing it down and staying in this pastoral region. You can really unplug and experience a new side of North Carolina. In April, it’s a great choice if you want to travel earlier in the month while still avoiding Spring Break crowds.

We recommend Jackson County as an off-the-beaten-track experience in North Carolina, and we think you’ll love this under-sung region. It has quiet attractions, plenty of culture, and natural beauty galore.

16. North Cascades National Park, WA

North Cascades is a beautiful park near the Canadian border in northern Washington. In April, some of the areas may still have snow lingering, and the temperatures jump up to above freezing, which makes it better and more enjoyable to hike. Given that it’s a glacial region too, that bit of lingering snow makes for even prettier scenery. You’ll have hikes to lakes with mountains still dusted with snow at their peaks. It’s the first month you can conveniently visit North Cascades again  and  enjoy clear trails with snow views. Could you ask for a better combination?

As if all that wasn’t enough, North Cascades is claimed to have one of the leading flora diversities of the USA and all its national parks. In spring, you’ll notice these flora coming into full bloom. It’s a stunning time to be in the area.

You can hike to Diablo Lake, Desolation Peak, or Baker Lake. North Cascades is just a ridiculously scenic place to enjoy in April. It’s ideal for those who love outdoor adventures and hiking, and it’s perfect if you still want to experience glacial terrain with decorative snow.

17. Big Sky, MT

Big Sky is a big name in the US ski industry. It is pretty much where to head for great slopes, has a gorgeous backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, and is close to Yellowstone National Park . On the days you choose to rest from the slopes, you can take a day trip to see bison and geysers erupting at Yellowstone. Amazing, right?

Big Sky understandably gets busy during Spring Break. However, if you visit after mid-April, you can catch the region at its quietest before it closes for summer. The community’s most well-known ski spot is Big Sky Resort. You can either stay there for your entire stay or just book slope passes, which is a flexible touch. It is known for its variety of runs, and you’ll have a ton of options to test out when you hit the slopes.

Apart from just tactical skiing, you’ll be able to enjoy nearby Yellowstone in April, too. April is a magical time to stay near Yellowstone, where you can witness bison births and bears emerging from hibernation. It’s a special time to visit Big Sky, from which you can easily rent a car or book a Yellowstone tour .

18. Napa Valley, CA

Napa Valley shouldn’t take much persuading if you like your Californian wines. The famed region is known for its delicious wines and is located just a short drive from San Francisco . It is accessible and peaceful, with rolling vineyards and plenty of sunshine. And in April, you have the bonus of fewer crowds and pretty spring wildflowers.

Visiting in April, you also tend to grab cheaper tours and experiences , as the region is still sleepy and trying to entice tourism before the summer rush. It is a great time to get the most value for money. It goes without saying that visiting one of the most famous wine regions in the USA can come with a heavy price tag.

If you stay in Napa itself, you’ll have dozens of wineries just within easy walking distance. You also have attractions like Oxbow Public Market and numerous scenic parks along the Napa River. It is a peaceful getaway in April. And you’ll have tons of chances to indulge.

19. Skagit Valley, WA

Skagit Valley is a beautiful region of fields on the bank of the Skagit River in northern Washington, just below the Canada border. It is easily one of the best places to visit in the USA in April, and there’s one reason why: the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. This festival lasts throughout April, when millions of tulips burst into life. If you love flowers in springtime, the valley is a mesmerizing spot for a visit. You’ll see colors of white, yellow, red, pink, and more. The valley transforms into waves of bright, bobbing flower heads.

During the festival, you can visit different farms and private lands that open up, especially for the occasion. A few favorites are Tulip Town and Tulip Valley Farms. And when you aren’t visiting the tulips, you can enjoy hiking and bird watching – migratory birds love the agricultural lands and peaceful, protected areas. Make sure to sample plenty of organic farm produce as well.

Skagit Valley is where you spot flowers in their peak season and enjoy a slower pace of life. What’s not to love? It’s an ideal choice this April and just over an hour’s drive from Seattle.

20. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is perfect for an April trip. Honestly, it’s like the park was made for this month; it has mild temperatures and barely any rain. And for a national park that mostly offers gorgeous hiking trails, that’s a huge win. You can visit during Spring Break for safety in numbers on trails, or you can dodge the crowds after mid-April.

The Guadalupe Mountains are most famed for its Permian fossil reef, which is the most extensive in the entire world. You can also hike up Guadalupe Peak and Devil’s Hall, which is much more enjoyable in spring than summer. McKittrick Canyon is also a beautiful spot to hike through, with plenty of flora erupting in April. We’d suggest allowing at least two to three days to experience the park or a week to take it slow and get under its skin. The park covers nearly 90,000 acres, so there’s a lot to see and do.

It is located on the border with New Mexico, so allow yourself some time to reach the park, too. You’ll appreciate those lower temperatures when driving through southern scenery, and if you get a chance, detour to Carlsbad Caverns nearby.

Best Places to Visit in April: FAQs

Now that you are knowledgeable about all the best places to visit in April, let’s get practical. In this section, we’ll briefly walk you through the most commonly asked FAQs. Hopefully, this will clear up any doubts or follow-up queries you’ve got brewing.

Where is the best place to vacation in April in the US?

We have a soft spot for California, Texas, and Utah. However, you should also consider destinations like Door County in Wisconsin and Anchorage in Alaska. There are still some beautiful, cooler destinations to visit in April.

Which state is best to visit in April?

Utah and California are two great states to visit in April. Utah has its national parks starting to wake up, with roads more accessible, and California has road trips galore and events like Coachella.

Which destination is best for April?

We’d say that Ennis is the best destination for April, along with Texas Hill Country as a whole. The sheer number of bluebonnets is just stunning, and the scenic drives in warm weather are dreamy.

Where in the US is it warm in April?

Florida, Texas, and Southern California are all good choices if you want hot weather in April.

Why We Recommend These Places To Visit in April

It’s easy to see why traveling to the USA in April is such a good idea. You’ve got lingering skiing opportunities, blooming flowers, and the chance to opt in or out of Spring Break celebrations and crowds. Visiting the USA in April comes with a different level of flexibility; we love it, and so will you.

Are you looking for more inspiration on visiting the USA? Or are you interested in the best things to do in April? Check out our guide on the  best Spring Break destinations for 2024.  You should also check out our guides on the best  2024 national parks  and  road trips  – because who doesn’t love outdoor adventure? Have an amazing time adventuring, partying, and sightseeing in the USA in April.

Plan Your Next Trip to The USA with These Resources

• 28 Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
• 26 Best Places To Visit In January USA
• 27 Best National Parks in the USA To Visit
• 50 Best Places to Visit in the USA
• 27 Best Places to Visit in March USA
• 16 Best National Parks To Visit in March

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

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Great tips. Here just trying to improve before a new trip.

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

As one of the largest and most diverse countries in the world, The United States boast an amazing amount of tourist destinations ranging from the skyscrapers of New York and Chicago, the natural wonders of Yellowstone and Alaska to the sunny beaches of California , Florida and Hawaii.

With so many tourist attractions in the USA it’s tempting to list entire cities or even states, but in this top 25 I have tried to focus on specific attractions.

25. Mount Rushmore [SEE MAP]

Perhaps the most unmistakably American landmark is Mount Rushmore, a national memorial located in South Dakota. Constructed in the early 20th century, Mount Rushmore depicts the faces of four former American presidents, each of which is carved and blasted from the side of a rock face.

Visitors can admire the larger-than-life faces of Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. The short Presidential Trail at the base of Mount Rushmore provides better views and an interesting perspective on the landmark.

24. Pike Place Market in Seattle [SEE MAP]

Overlooking the waterfront of Elliott Bay in Seattle, Washington, is the Pike Place Market. Opened in 1907, the market is now a historic, iconic part of the city. Pike Place Market is the ultimate place to shop in Seattle, because it is full of the oldest establishments in the region.

There are markets where fresh fish straight from the Puget Sound gets tossed dramatically, cheesemongers who offer tastings of locally made brie and camembert and then there is the site of the original Starbucks coffee shop.

23. Venice Beach in Los Angeles [SEE MAP]

No visit to Los Angeles is complete without a trip to Venice Beach. Its canals and beaches are spectacular, but the biggest hit is undeniably the Venice Beach Boardwalk. This is a truly entertaining spot where street performers juggle, dance, sculpt and sing for passersby.

Shop for souvenirs, grab a refreshing drink and bring some small bills for a stroll on the boardwalk. After stopping to admire a live performer, many visitors tip a dollar or two to show appreciation.

See also: Where to Stay in Los Angeles

22. Mesa Verde [SEE MAP]

The Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is home to the preserved homes of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Many of these homes, which are carved right from caves and rock faces, date back to the early 13th century.

Today, it is possible to walk beneath the overhanging cliffs and tour these ancient abodes. The Balcony House is especially well preserved, and it boasts 40 rooms that are accessible exclusively by ladder. The nearby Cliff Palace is even bigger, and it is believed to have housed more than 100 people in its 150 original rooms.

21. Faneuil Hall in Boston [SEE MAP]

One of the most historic destinations in Boston, a city already full of heritage, is Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Also known as the Cradle of Liberty, this early 18th century structure served as a space where early leaders gathered to fight against oppression in the years before and during the American Revolutionary War.

Today, touring Faneuil Hall Marketplace means lots of opportunity to shop for local produce and desserts in the indoor and outdoor marketplace.

20. Kennedy Space Center [SEE MAP]

Cape Canaveral, located on the coast of Florida, boasts a lot of space-related attractions. One of the best is the Kennedy Space Center, which has been the launch site for every US human space flight since 1968 and currently operates as a launch site for unmanned rockets.

Visitors can learn more about the early pioneers into space, and they can also experience the tension and excitement over the rush to the moon. There is even the chance to participate in the Shuttle Launch Experience, which replicates the experience of space travel.

19. Navy Pier in Chicago [SEE MAP]

Extending over the waters of Lake Michigan is Navy Pier, an enormous pier in the heart of Chicago’s coastal Streeterville neighborhood. Within the pier, there are countless attractions suited to the whole family.

Beautifully manicured gardens are the ideal place for a scenic stroll, and lots of souvenir shops are a wonderful way to snag gifts on a vacation to Chicago. The pier is also home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, two theaters and an abundance of excellent restaurants.

18. Great Smoky Mountains National Park [SEE MAP]

Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is the most visited in the entire country, thanks in large part to its enormous size and its incredible scenery.

Visitors can hike through old growth forest, spot hundreds of species of birds and check out the two visitor centers. Hikes can also wind through trails that lead to the waterfalls of Laurel Falls and the vistas of Clingman’s Dome.

17. River Walk in San Antonio [SEE MAP]

In the city of San Antonio, Texas , there are few attractions more appealing than the River Walk. Also known as the Paseo del Rio, the River Walk is a network of walkways lining the San Antonio River.

Reserved for pedestrians, the revitalized area is packed with fascinating architecture, lush greenery and water views. The River Walk is a hub for dining and culinary exploration in this Texan city. It is possible to dig into Tex-Mex cuisine, upscale French fare and everything in between in this one easily navigable destination.

16. Carlsbad Caverns [SEE MAP]

As the name suggests, Carlsbad Caverns is a collection of over 115 caves. Located in southern New Mexico, these caverns are carved from limestone, and it is possible for visitors to descend more than 900 feet (275 meters) below the surface of the earth on a guided tour.

The largest single cave chamber in all of North America is found here and is known as the Big Room. Within the room itself, visitors can set off on a 90-minute walk exploring the incredible underground environment.

15. Bryce Canyon National Park [SEE MAP]

Located in Southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking display of rock formations. Technically, Bryce Canyon isn’t a canyon, but a series of natural amphitheaters. Mormon settlers once called the canyon home, but now most visitors come for the awe-inspiring views and the magnificent hiking opportunities.

Sunset Point is one of the most popular vantage points, offering panoramic views of the red, yellow and orange rock formations. Queen’s Garden Trail is another favorite, because it offers green trees among the red rocks for a brilliant juxtaposition.

14. French Quarter in New Orleans [SEE MAP]

New Orleans, Louisiana, is made up of several unique districts, but none is so famous as the French Quarter. Also known as the Vieux Carre, the French Quarter truly explores the rich French colonial influences on the city of New Orleans . Incredible architecture abounds, with the St. Louis Cathedral being the main attraction.

The French Quarter boasts the Moon Walk, a paved walkway next to the Mississippi River, as well as Bourbon Street, the undeniable hub of nightlife, drinking and entertainment in the city.

13. Sedona Red Rock Country [SEE MAP]

A two-hour drive north of Phoenix is Sedona, Arizona. Sedona isn’t a big city, but it is a major tourist attraction in the USA thanks to its gorgeous red rock landscape. Known as Red Rock Country, this region is an outdoor lover’s dream. Countless canyons, creeks and paths encourage outdoor activity, with Cathedral Rock Trail being one of the local favorite hiking spots.

One of the most interesting spots in Sedona combines the new with the old, with the contemporary Chapel of the Holy Cross built right into the side of the red rocks themselves.

12. Walt Disney World in Orlando [SEE MAP]

Orlando, Florida , is a hub of amusement parks, but none is so popular as Walt Disney World. Many travelers don’t realize that Walt Disney World is actually made up of several distinct theme parks, including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and the Blizzard Beach Water Park.

Visitors will be able to enjoy thrill rides, watch Broadway-quality shows and explore the nightlife, cuisine, shopping and entertainment at Disney Springs.

11. Yosemite National Park [SEE MAP]

In the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, there is Yosemite National Park. This extraordinary destination is known the world over for its amazing scenery. Within this single park, visitors can peer off spectacular granite cliffs, admire clear waterfalls and see sequoia trees that are hundreds of years old.

Yosemite Valley is a top spot to explore in the park, because it boasts the enormous Yosemite Falls as well as the granite monolith called Half Dome.

10. White House in Washington D.C. [SEE MAP]

The White House in Washington DC is the official residence and office of the President of the United States. It was built between 1792 and 1800 and first used by President John Adams.

After the 9/11 attacks it has become more difficult to visit the White House and today tours are available only for groups of 10 or more and must be requested up to six months in advance through your member of Congress or your country’s US Ambassador.

9. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

The Denali National Park and Preserve is located in Interior Alaska and contains Mount McKinley, the highest mountain in North America. The word “Denali” means “the high one” in the native Athabaskan language and refers to Mount McKinley. In addition, the park protects an incredible wilderness area that contains grizzly bears, caribou, moose, wolves, and numerous other creatures.

8. Las Vegas Strip [SEE MAP]

The gambling mecca of the world, Las Vegas is situated in the midst of the southern Nevada desert landscape. Casinos can be found throughout Las Vegas, but the strip, a stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South, contains the most of them.

It features giant mega-casino hotels, decorated with lavish care and attention to detail to create a fantasy-like atmosphere. The casinos often have names and themes that evoke romance, mystery, and far-away destination.

See also: Where to Stay in Las Vegas

7. Florida Keys [SEE MAP]

The Florida Keys are a 120 mile long chain of tropical islands curving around the base of the Florida peninsula, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges.

The most spectacular bridge, the Seven Mile Bridge in the Lower Keys, has been frequently used as a location for films including True Lies and Fast 2 Furious. US Highway 1, the “Overseas Highway” runs from Key Largo , Islamadora, Marathon, Lower Keys and finally to Key West, the most distant and most famous island.

6. Kilauea [SEE MAP]

Kilauea is the most recent of a series of volcanoes that have created the Hawaiian Archipelago. It is a very low, flat shield volcano, vastly different in profile from the high, sharply sloping peaks of stratovolcanoes.

Kilauea is one of the most active volcano on the Earth, an invaluable resource for volcanologists. Thirty-three eruptions have taken place since 1952, not including the current eruption which started on January 3, 1983 and is still ongoing.

5. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

Situated between the state of New York and the province of Ontario, Niagara Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the North American continent. Niagara Falls is actually three different falls, the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls.

Horseshoe Falls is located on the Canadian side while the other are located in New York. With more than 14 million visitors each year it is one of the most visited tourist attraction in the world.

4. Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco [SEE MAP]

The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the strait between San Francisco and Marin County to the north.

The Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge span in the world when it was completed in 1937, and has become an internationally recognized symbol of San Francisco and California . The famous red-orange color of the bridge was specifically chosen to make the bridge more easily visible through the thick fog that frequently shrouds the bridge.

3. Yellowstone [SEE MAP]

Yellowstone National Park was the world’s first national park, set aside in 1872 to preserve the vast number of geysers, hot springs, and other thermal areas, as well as to protect the incredible wildlife and rugged beauty of the area. Yellowstone lies on top of a gigantic hotspot where light, hot, molten mantle rock rises towards the surface.

Subsequently, the park contains half of all the world’s known geothermal features, with more than 10,000 examples of geysers and hot springs. In addition, black bears, grizzly bears, deer, elk, bison and wolves can all be found within the park borders.

2. Manhattan [SEE MAP]

Manhattan is one of New York’s five boroughs and is what people most often think of when they picture New York City . It’s familiar skyline and sights have been featured a thousand times on screen. Walk in the shadow of the skyscrapers, picture the Statue of Liberty, see a Broadway show , climb the Empire State building, stroll Central Park, window shop on 5th Avenue or stagger around a museum.

1. Grand Canyon [SEE MAP]

The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona and is one of the great tourist attractions in the United States. Carved over several million years by the Colorado River, the canyon attains a depth of over 1.6 km (1 mile) and 446 km (277 miles) long.

The Grand Canyon is not the deepest or the longest canyon in the world but the overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape offers visitor spectacular vistas that are unmatched throughout the world.

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Reader interactions.

November 12, 2020 at 8:34 pm

I’ve been to almost all of these. HANDS DOWN Grand Canyon- Bryce-Tetons- Yellowstone-Glacier is the most amazing trip. I’ve been all over the world, and Yellowstone’s wildlife and the view at the Grand Canyon are by far the most epic. I love Washington State as well: Mt. Ranier, Seattle, Olympic and the anitoles- you can see a variety in a small distance.

July 26, 2019 at 10:32 am

You should have included the historic triangle in Virginia. It includes Williamsburg (Colonial Williamsburg) Jamestown (America’s first settlement) & Yorktown (the site of Cornwallis’ surrender, effectively ending the Revolutionary War) it is literally the birth place of this great nation and is a huge tourist destination.

May 24, 2019 at 10:31 pm

Nice article, but may I make one correction regarding Pike Place Market? As a local tour guide, it bugs me when people tell our visitors that the Starbucks at the market is the original. It isn’t, and I try to set this myth straight every chance I get. The original Starbucks was on Western Ave., and burned down in the 70s. The original owner and team moved to the present location at the market, which is how they get away with calling it original, but in reality, it is misleading the public.

October 31, 2018 at 10:15 am

Hello!? Savannah GA is amazing. It’s like stepping back in time.

August 17, 2017 at 7:54 pm

oh my gaawwwd. these photos are amazing and I cant wait to go back to the us so I can visit vegas. I didn’t get to last time so im really looking forward to it!!!

September 1, 2016 at 11:10 am

I am excited to see Niagra falls soon and its my dream to see New York specially Statue of Liberty, Central park and Brooklyn Bridge. I hope that soon i shall be there.

February 9, 2015 at 8:09 am

It makes you dream and want to go there. I’ve learned a lot on the USA thanks to your site and the like. Your publications perfectly reflect the wonderful side of the USA.

January 30, 2015 at 12:36 am

Christina Rusia! You are right America is fabulous and offer amazing sights to see there. I have explored its major attractions and Niagara Falls and Grand Canyon are one of those places which are my ever best spots to enjoy the natural beauty. Recently I went to have some fun with friends in Nagara Falls after my pedestrian streets trip.

October 14, 2014 at 6:04 pm

I think that america is fabulous, The sights and also the view is amazing to see and visit. I am currently in New York.

July 24, 2014 at 11:32 pm

I visited Yellowstone National Park. This is an awesome place in USA.

December 12, 2013 at 4:46 am

I have been very lucky myself to have visited most of these places. One of my main reasons why I love America (USA) is because of the diversity the country has to offer in terms of landscapes e.g. countryside, deserts, mountains ect. Out of the above Yellowstone and Vegas are my favourites. Niagara Falls was an sight I will never forget – waking up each morning and opening my hotel room curtains to see the falls directly below….breathtaking.

November 30, 2013 at 7:03 am

these are great places

September 14, 2013 at 6:17 am

Las Vegas is my final destination …….thankew. informative website

August 20, 2013 at 5:23 pm

I think that Niagara Falls needs to be higher on the list. Who agrees?

March 27, 2013 at 6:44 am

Niagara Falls & Manhattan is my dream….I have no word to express the beauty

February 19, 2013 at 1:03 am

great feed back about us visitor Sp like me who is going to visit USA first time and with family it was quite difficult for me to decide where to go but after visiting this page i am clear about my trip thanks alot

November 14, 2012 at 10:45 pm

I can say that I have been very fortunate to have visited all but one of these tourist attractions. (Alaska being the only one) Visiting Alcatraz and seeing the Golden Gate was interesting, along with watching the Geysers in Yellowstone. I live in NY (15 minutes from Niagara Falls and an easy drive to NYC) so those don’t interest me as much but after driving cross country in my early twenties, I have realized just what a beautiful country we live in. I now have three children and make it a point to travel with them. Each child gets a surprise birthday trip every year and it has proved to be not only memorable but also educational. My 11 year old has been many places, in and out of the U.S. and now is starting to understand the value of travel. Great site! 🙂

September 24, 2012 at 12:34 pm

Manhattan: “… stagger around a museum”… you have you never lied. I recently visited New York, and a friend of mine and I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Our initial plan was to try and see if we could make it through that one and the American Museum of Natural History. After a good 7 hours in the Met, we ended up taking a taxi to Penn Station, and slept our way back on the train to Long Island. I will say, however the exhaustion was worth it.

August 6, 2012 at 8:52 am

A great page, I’ve been to the USA many times – Cities such as New York and San Francisco are really worth a visit – For natural wonder Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon are a must.

August 28, 2011 at 9:18 pm

Very good collection of tourist places. I have bookmarked this page, and i will follow this blog at the time of my usa tour. Thanks.

April 26, 2011 at 3:47 am

Fabulous photos of places to visit in the US. I have been very lucky to visit Vegas, and to have flown over the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Over the page you have photos of Alaska and Denali National Park which I plan to visit next year. When I see those photos I can hardly wait. Thanks great post.

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38 Places in the US Every American Should Visit

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cape Canaveral

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

ALSO READ: America’s Favorite Road Trip Songs

Ellis Island

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

Grand Canyon

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

Fenway Park

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

Coney Island

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

Mammoth Cave

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

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

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

Lexington, Concord, and Bunker Hill

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

Redwood National and State Parks

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

Fort McHenry

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

Monument Valley

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

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

Arlington National Cemetery

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

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

Wildwoods Shore Resort Historic District

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

Lincoln Memorial

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

Ebenezer Baptist Church

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

Glacier National Park

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

Independence Hall

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

The Smithsonian Institution

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

San Diego Zoo

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

Washington Monument

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

West Point Academy

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

Grand Ole Opry

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

New Orleans

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

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

Appalachian Trail

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

Four Corners Monument

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

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

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

Yellowstone National Park

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

Ford River Rouge Complex

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

Hot Springs

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

Wrigley Field

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

The Wright Brothers National Memorial

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

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

National Archives Museum

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

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

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

Mississippi Petrified Forest

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

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

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

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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

White Sands National Park

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

Wynwood Arts District

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

Statue of Liberty

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

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Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Jet off to Morocco for a 'Magical' Weekend Away — See Photos!

The married couple of nearly 28 years shared some stunning sights from their trip to Tangier

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Kelly Ripa/Instagram (2)

Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos are enjoying the magic of Morocco! 

The Live Wire author, 53, shared an inside look at her weekend getaway with her husband in the coastal city of Tangier. She revealed the breathtaking architecture and scenery in a series of photos shared to her Instagram Stories on April 21.

In the first snap, Ripa shows off the lush palm trees and serene water as “Steppin’ Out” by Joe Jackson plays in the background. 

“Scenes from a magical weekend,” she begins, tagging Consuelos, 53, at the bottom of the photo. 

Kelly Ripa/Instagram

The same song continues to play as the mom of three — she shares sons Michael , 26, and Joaquin , 21, as well as daughter Lola , 22, with Consuelos — reveals more of the stunning landscape. 

While the pair didn’t share any photos with their daughter during the trip, it appears the “Divine Timing” singer was also in Morocco last week.

A carousel of photos shared to her Instagram account on April 19 showed the 22-year-old posing with colorful architecture and getting ready to ride a four-wheeler through the desert terrain.

“Moroccooo,” she captioned her post.

Ripa tags the hotel Villa Mabrouka , where the couple seemingly stayed during their trip, and highlights the property’s intricate design details. 

In one shot, a blue and green light fixture draws the eye to the center of the room, followed by another snap of Ripa posing in a mirror as the black-and-white floors and signature arches can be seen in the background. 

The Live with Kelly and Mark hosts also visited the Tangier American Legation Museum where they marveled at the greenery and vibrant flowers. 

In a snap that Consuelos reshared to his Instagram Stories , the Riverdale alum is seen posing on a terrace outside of the historical landmark as he tries to take a sneaky photo of his wife.

As for their nightlife activities, the married couple of nearly 28 years got dressed up in matching all-white ensembles for an evening event. 

Consuelos is all smiles as his wife gives him a sweet kiss on the cheek in one photo. 

Ripa also showed off the long dinner table lit with a line of tiny lamps, as well as the glowing pool that their hotel boasts. 

Another image shows a crowd of guests also dressed in white gathering around a larger pool illuminated by lanterns.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

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Terry Anderson, AP reporter kidnapped in Lebanon and held captive for years, dies at 76

LOS ANGELES — Terry Anderson, the globe-trotting Associated Press correspondent who became one of America’s longest-held hostages after he was snatched from a street in war-torn Lebanon in 1985 and held for nearly seven years, has died at 76.

Anderson, who chronicled his abduction and torturous imprisonment by Islamic militants in his best-selling 1993 memoir “Den of Lions,” died on Sunday in at his home in Greenwood Lake, New York, said his daughter, Sulome Anderson.

The cause of death was unknown, though his daughter said Anderson recently had heart surgery.

After returning to the United States in 1991, Anderson led a peripatetic life, giving public speeches, teaching journalism at several prominent universities and, at various times, operating a blues bar, Cajun restaurant, horse ranch and gourmet restaurant.

He also struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder, won millions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets after a federal court concluded that country played a role in his capture, then lost most of it to bad investments. He filed for bankruptcy in 2009.

Upon retiring from the University of Florida in 2015, Anderson settled on a small horse farm in a quiet, rural section of northern Virginia he had discovered while camping with friends. `

“I live in the country and it’s reasonably good weather and quiet out here and a nice place, so I’m doing all right,” he said with a chuckle during a 2018 interview with The Associated Press.

In 1985 he became one of several Westerners abducted by members of the Shia Muslim group Hezbollah during a time of war that had plunged Lebanon into chaos.

After his release, he returned to a hero’s welcome at AP’s New York headquarters.

As the AP’s chief Middle East correspondent, Anderson had been reporting for several years on the rising violence gripping Lebanon as the country fought a war with Israel, while Iran funded militant groups trying to topple its government.

On March 16, 1985, a day off, he had taken a break to play tennis with former AP photographer Don Mell and was dropping Mell off at his home when gun-toting kidnappers dragged him from his car.

He was likely targeted, he said, because he was one of the few Westerners still in Lebanon and because his role as a journalist aroused suspicion among members of Hezbollah.

“Because in their terms, people who go around asking questions in awkward and dangerous places have to be spies,“ he told the Virginia newspaper The Review of Orange County in 2018.

What followed was nearly seven years of brutality during which he was beaten, chained to a wall, threatened with death, often had guns held to his head and often was kept in solitary confinement for long periods of time.

Anderson was the longest held of several Western hostages Hezbollah abducted over the years, including Terry Waite, the former envoy to the Archbishop of Canterbury, who had arrived to try to negotiate his release.

By his and other hostages’ accounts, he was also their most hostile prisoner, constantly demanding better food and treatment, arguing religion and politics with his captors, and teaching other hostages sign language and where to hide messages so they could communicate privately.

He managed to retain a quick wit and biting sense of humor during his long ordeal. On his last day in Beirut he called the leader of his kidnappers into his room to tell him he’d just heard an erroneous radio report saying he’d been freed and was in Syria.

“I said, ‘Mahmound, listen to this, I’m not here. I’m gone, babes. I’m on my way to Damascus.’ And we both laughed,” he told Giovanna DellÓrto, author of “AP Foreign Correspondents in Action: World War II to the Present.”

He learned later his release was delayed when a third party who his kidnappers planned to turn him over to left for a tryst with his mistress and they had to find someone else.

Anderson’s humor often hid the PTSD he acknowledged suffering for years afterward.

“The AP got a couple of British experts in hostage decompression, clinical psychiatrists, to counsel my wife and myself and they were very useful,” he said in 2018. “But one of the problems I had was I did not recognize sufficiently the damage that had been done.

“So, when people ask me, you know, ‘Are you over it?’ Well, I don’t know. No, not really. It’s there. I don’t think about it much these days, it’s not central to my life. But it’s there.”

At the time of his abduction, Anderson was engaged to be married and his future wife was six months pregnant with their daughter, Sulome.

The couple married soon after his release but divorced a few years later, and although they remained on friendly terms Anderson and his daughter were estranged for years.

“I love my dad very much. My dad has always loved me. I just didn’t know that because he wasn’t able to show it to me.,” Sulome Anderson told the AP in 2017.

Father and daughter reconciled after the publication of her critically acclaimed 2017 book, “The Hostage’s Daughter,” in which she told of traveling to Lebanon to confront and eventually forgive one of her father’s kidnappers.

“I think she did some extraordinary things, went on a very difficult personal journey, but also accomplished a pretty important piece of journalism doing it,” Anderson said. “She’s now a better journalist than I ever was.”

Terry Alan Anderson was born Oct. 27, 1947. He spent his early childhood years in the small Lake Erie town of Vermillion, Ohio, where his father was a police officer.

After graduating from high school, he turned down a scholarship to the University of Michigan in favor of enlisting in the Marines, where he rose to the rank of staff sergeant while seeing combat during the Vietnam War.

After returning home, he enrolled at Iowa State University where he graduated with a double major in journalism and political science and soon after went to work for the AP. He reported from Kentucky, Japan and South Africa before arriving in Lebanon in 1982, just as the country was descending into chaos.

“Actually, it was the most fascinating job I’ve ever had in my life,” he told The Review. “It was intense. War’s going on — it was very dangerous in Beirut. Vicious civil war, and I lasted about three years before I got kidnapped.”

Anderson was married and divorced three times. In addition to his daughter, he is survived by another daughter, Gabrielle Anderson, from his first marriage.

Michael Penix Jr. NFL draft projections, according to latest expert mock drafts

Quarterbacks are always the hottest topic when it comes to NFL draft season. This year, they're especially at top of mind with so many teams in need. Four gunslingers are near-locks to hear their names called Thursday night but there could be as many as six – which would match an NFL draft record.

Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is one of the quarterbacks outside of the top four but inside the top six. The 2023 Heisman Trophy runner-up finished his college career with his best season yet, culminating in an appearance in the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Yet the age of the nearly 24-year-old quarterback and his history of injuries may scare off NFL teams from drafting Penix in the first round. He may be a first-round quarterback but could just as easily fall to the second round.

Here's where draft analysts around the web see Penix landing in their latest mock drafts.

NFL MOCK DRAFT: Six QBs make first-round cut as trade possibilities remain

NFL DRAFT HUB: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis.

2024 NFL Draft: Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

Nate davis, usa today : las vegas raiders — no. 29 overall (projected trade with detroit).

Davis writes: "Penix's past two seasons with the Huskies were sublime (67 TD passes, 19 INTs). The Heisman runner-up to Daniels last season, his performance against Texas in the CFP (430 yards, 2 TDs passing) was an all-timer, the southpaw lasering the ball over the field. His maturity and experiences are also plusses."

Sam Monson, Pro Football Focus : Minnesota Vikings — No. 34 overall (projected trade with New England)

Monson writes: "General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has a finance background, which means diversifying and hedging. Minnesota shocks the NFL by selecting quarterbacks in the first and second." (Monson sent North Carolina QB Drake Maye to Minnesota in the first round.)

Jordan Reid, ESPN : Las Vegas Raiders — No. 44 overall

Reid writes: "This makes too much sense. Neither Aidan O'Connell nor Gardner Minshew are the Raiders' long-term answer at quarterback, and Penix could even find himself starting at some point during his rookie season. He isn't the most mobile QB prospect, but his deep ball is fantastic."

Tyler Sullivan, CBS Sports : Las Vegas Raiders — No. 10 overall (projected trade with New York Jets)

Sullivan writes: "The Raiders jump ahead of the Broncos to secure Penix and New York gains some capital without drastically moving down the board."

Chad Reuter, NFL.com : Las Vegas Raiders — No. 33 overall (projected trade with Carolina)

2024 NFL DRAFT ORDER: Easy way to see every teams' picks from Rounds 1 to 7

2024 NFL Draft odds: Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

According to latest NFL Draft odds from BetMGM , the Raiders are the favorites to draft Penix. Looking to wager? Check out the  best mobile sports betting apps  offering  NFL betting promos in 2024 .

Here's how the odds stack up for the various teams most likely to select Penix in the 2024 NFL Draft.

• Raiders: +300
• Vikings: +450
• Broncos: +500
• Seahawks: +600
• Giants: +700

2024 NFL Draft: How to watch on cable TV and streaming

• When: April 25-27, 2024
• Where: Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza, Detroit, Michigan
• Cable: ESPN, ABC, NFL Network
• Streaming: NFL+; ESPN+ ; Hulu+ Live TV; fuboTV

HOW TO WATCH: Catch all seven rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft with a fuboTV subscription

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