Top Tips for Travel in the USA
Before we get into exactly where to go in the USA, check out my top travel tips for booking your USA vacation:
Getting There
- Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to your destination.
- Public buses are the cheapest ways to get to your accommodation from the airport, but a shared shuttle transfer is quicker and cheaper than a taxi - you can pre-book those on GetYourGuide or Viator
- Try Omio for booking trains and Busbud for buses including Greyhound and Flixbus.
Where to Stay
- For hotels, I use Booking.com to check reviews and find the best deals on hotels and apartments wherever I'm travelling to. Hotels.com is another good site.
- If you're on a tight budget, use Hostelworld to find the best hostels all over the world
Hire a Car
- Get a quote for car hire with Discover Cars who compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.
Book Tours and Activities
- I use GetYourGuide or Viator to book everything from skip-the-line entry tickets to food tours as I can compare options from several companies and choose the best one for me
- If you're staying in a hostel, check out their tours and activities which are usually free or very cheap - and a great way to meet people!
Get Travel Insurance
- Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. I never leave home without travel insurance, so consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like adventure sports and activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, stolen items, trip cancellation and more.
- Get a quote for your trip from True Traveller if you're based in the UK, or World Nomads or SafetyWing which both offer travel insurance for backpackers and long-term travellers. Alternatively, use a comparison site like Travel Insurance Master to find the best cover for you.
Check Your Travel Documents
- Don't forget to check the validity of your passport and any other documents for your trip. Use iVisa to check if you need a visa to visit your destination, and get up to date official travel advice from your government, for example on the Department of State website in the US or the UK government website.
Get Cheap Currency
- When travelling abroad, using a travel bank account like Wise means you get great deals on foreign currency - including a fee-free transfer of up to £500 when you use this link to sign up.
Top Money Saving Tip for Backpackers
- Work exchanges are a great way to travel for longer and extend your trip as you can save a ton of money on accommodation. Get an extra $10 discount on Worldpackers here or learn more about work exchanges.
Vacation in Oahu Hawaii for Culture, Adventure and Food
One of the best places to visit in the USA is Hawaii and specifically Oahu, the main tourist destination on the islands. Travel to Oahu offers the best of everything you would expect for a Hawaii vacation – gorgeous beaches, amazing food, recreation and adventure experiences, as well as art, music and cultural treasures and historic areas to explore.
For outdoor enthusiasts, you can hike, bike, jog, climb, surf, snorkel and practically do anything adventure-oriented. For culture and history enthusiasts look into visiting historic downtown Honolulu, Chinatown and Pearl Harbor, along with the many museums that focus on Hawaiian and Pan Pacific history on the islands.
READ MORE: Free Things to do in Oahu
Even eating here in Oahu is a culinary experience trying local foods, comfort foods to the new Hawaiian regional cuisine that started the farm to table concept throughout the United States.
A visit to Oahu and Hawaii is the perfect vacation in the USA as most attractions and dining venues have now reopened for business and of course the weather is ideal for exploring the gorgeous scenery and outdoors here.
By Noel, Oahu Travel Now
Travel to Central Oregon for Outdoor Activities
Central Oregon is a great vacation destination all year round. Blue skies are common no matter the season, unlike other parts of Oregon that see quite a bit of rain. Best enjoyed outdoors, Central Oregon boasts summer sports including paddling, hiking, cycling, horseback riding, white water rafting, and golfing.
In winter, areas of the High Desert turn into a snowy wonderland for skiing, snowboarding, sledding and ice skating. Nearby mountains, like Mt. Bachelor, make it easy to hit the slopes for the day and return to town for a nice meal by dinner time.
Oregonians on vacation often stay in the city of Bend or one of the popular Central Oregon resorts nearby. Either way, there are plenty of activities, amenities, and great restaurants just steps away. Whether you’re looking for a large vacation rental that can accommodate multiple generations, an intimate boutique hotel or a rustic lodge, you’ll find it all here.
Central Oregon is also home to top craft breweries. Plus, there’s no sales tax in Oregon for dining or shopping! One of the best things about vacationing in this area is there’s something for everyone to enjoy, no matter their age or interest.
By Michelle, Roam Redmond Oregon
Visit New York’s Finger Lakes For Landscapes and Wineries
Western New York’s exceptionally popular Finger Lakes region is the perfect place to take a vacation between late Spring and late Fall for ultra-scenic hikes, spectacular natural landscapes and award-winning wineries.
The Seneca Lake wine trail hosts some of the best cool climate wine tasting anywhere in the country. Combine fine wine with booming craft breweries, distilleries and hard cider producers for some tasty and boozy evenings.
But you have to earn your relaxing evening! By day, you are utterly spoiled for choice between stunning gorge trail hikes to waterfalls:
A very flat and easy 2 mile round trip hike leads to the tallest single drop waterfall East of the Rockies at Taughannock Falls State Park.
Letchworth State Park is the Finger Lakes’ undoubted ‘hidden gem’, featuring three picturesque waterfalls and a horseshoe-shaped canyon with a beautifully unique sunrise scene.
However, the jewel in the Finger Lakes crown is the extraordinary gorge trail hike to rainbow falls inside Watkins Glen State Park. This postcard-perfect stone trail truly is one of the most remarkable waterfall hikes in the US.
New York’s Finger Lakes provide a significant reward for very little effort, especially if you’re lucky enough to visit during the radiant peak Fall season.
By Mark and Kristen from Where Are Those Morgans
Vacation in Northern Michigan For Hidden Gems
Lush greenery, sparkling blue lakes, sandy beaches, quaint little towns – this off-the-beaten-path destination is a perfect spot for a vacation in the USA. Northern Michigan offers attractions for year-round enjoyment for the whole family.
Visit in the summertime for long days on the beach, campfires and s’mores at night, along with shopping and dining in one of the many small charming towns scattered throughout the northern region of the state.
Head to Northern Michigan in the wintertime for a day on the slopes, to check out local shops and dining options, or to spend some time catching up on your reading list in a lodge by a fireplace.
One of the best times to visit, though, is in the late summer/early fall – September or October. As the weather begins to transition, the vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and red cover the region like a blanket. Although the weather is chillier, use it as an opportunity to visit pumpkin patches, cider mills, and wineries, as well as road-trip from town-to-town.
Some of the best spots in Northern Michigan to check out are Traverse City, Charlevoix, Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Mackinac Island, and the Upper Peninsula.
By Kylie Loyd, Catch the Drift
Head to Colorado Springs for the People
Colorado Springs—It’s not just one thing. Trying to explain Colorado Springs is like trying to explain why a diamond sparkles. Vacationing here could include outdoor adventure to the top of Pikes Peak, through the Garden of the Gods, up the Manitou Incline, or along our thousands of trails.
But it could also take you to a little-known microbrewery or distillery. You could visit the US Olympic Training Center, the Olympic and Paralympic Museum, visit the highest zoo in America, watch two semi-pro sports teams, or tour the U.S. Air Force Academy.
READ MORE: Awesome Things to do in Colorado Springs in Winter
However, these “attractions” aren’t the sparkle. That comes from an 80-year-old couple hiking the trails. The hipster baristas slinging craft coffee and tasty beer. The roar of the crowd for our hometown athletes. The veterans who have kept us safe, and the cowboys who tamed the west. The people of Colorado Springs are why this diamond sparkles, and we love sharing our adventure with others.
Melody & Tanya, Colorado Hikes and Hops
Vacation in Philadelphia for Fascinating History
As the first capital of the United States, the city of Brotherly Love will take you back in time with the abundance of history it has to share with you.
View the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American Independence. See where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed. Explore the Eastern State Penitentiary to see where notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Wille Sutton served time. Wander cobblestone streets as you learn about the lives of early Philadelphians and about the small and colorful homes in Elfreth’s Alley. Feel like Rocky Balboa of Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky movies as you run up the famous steps and try the famous two-arms-raised salute.
Do not leave Philadelphia without devouring a delicious Philly Cheesesteak. Finding the best one is a big deal and is always up for debate. A few popular locations are Sonny’s, Pat’s King of Steaks, and Gino’s Steaks.
With so much to see, purchasing a CityPass is extremely helpful in Philadelphia. Do not miss out on seeing any of the major landmarks and attractions.
By Debbie Fettback, World Adventurists
Travel to Miami Florida for the Beaches
People flock to Miami to enjoy some well-deserved beach time. Staying right at the Barrier Island to Miami City is highly recommended. This area is referred to as Miami Beach.
Miami Beach features miles and miles of long sandy beaches with perfect whitish sand and colorful guard towers. The part of Miami Beach towards its southern tip called simply South Beach is where most of the action is at.
Apart from spending the day chilling on the beach, you can do many other things at the South Beach. The glamorous beachside is full of hip restaurants and bistros, serving local staples as well as innovative concepts. Nightlife is rich and you can pick from a number of clubs each night to have a party at.
READ MORE: Free Things to do in Miami
Street art rules the area. You can find some amazing murals along Ocean Drive, as well as Collins Avenue. Don’t forget to check out the perfect pastel-colored houses in Art Deco style lining the Ocean Drive – one of them is the famous Versace mansion.
It’s easy to get around Miami and its beaches without a car. The public transport system works well and you can even use some free transport in the Miami Beach area.
By Veronika Primm, Travel Geekery
Explore Utah for Spectacular National Parks
If you love outdoor adventures like hiking, rock climbing and horseback riding, then a vacation to Utah’s national parks is a must. Utah’s landscape is so unique and stunning there are five national parks located within its borders: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion.
Thousands of naturally formed arches grace the landscape in Arches National Park, while crazy looking spires, called hoodoos, rise high from Bryce Canyon. Canyonlands’ deep crevices, valleys and canyons stretch for miles, while dramatic sandstone domes and pick-your-own fresh fruit make Capitol Reef a fun and scenic stop. Zion National Park has quite possibly the most spectacular scenery of them all and includes two world-famous hikes – Angel’s Landing and The Narrows.
Utah has a desert climate, so you’ll want to consider planning your Utah national parks itinerary for the spring or fall when the weather is milder than in the heat of summer. Regardless of when you visit, prepare to be wowed by Utah’s spectacular scenery.
By Deanne, Scenic and Savvy
Vacation in New Orleans for History, Food and Nightlife
New Orleans is a unique city in the south-eastern part of the US in the state of Louisiana. It’s brimming with history, delicious food and incredible nightlife. 4 days in New Orleans is a great amount of time to see the highlights of the city.
One of the top reasons to visit New Orleans is because it has some of the best food and drinks in the country. From gumbo to po’boys and beignets, be sure to try as much NOLA cuisine as you can when visiting! It’s also a great idea to take a food tour while in New Orleans, so you can get a curated sampling of all the local cuisines. Plus, you’ll learn the difference between their Creole and Cajun cooking.
New Orleans is also the birthplace of jazz. You will find many incredible live jazz shows at night. Preservation Hall is one of the best venues in the city to watch live jazz – just be prepared to stand in line, as there are no reservations.
NOLA is also credited as the place where Voodoo was introduced in the United States. You’ll find many haunted history and voodoo tours because of this! Cemetery tours are also popular, as many of New Orleans’ tombs are above ground, and are very beautiful.
By Lindsey, Have Clothes, Will Travel
Head to Nashville, Tennessee for Music and Food
One of the best places for a vacation in the USA is Nashville, Tennessee. There are two things in particular that make this vibrant city so special — the music and the food scene.
Known as “Music City,” Nashville has one of the best music scenes in the entire world. It’s home to country music, blues, jazz, and more. Nashville is typically the first place that aspiring musicians move to when they want to make it big.
There are a few musical attractions you can visit to learn more about the history of music in Nashville including the Ryman Auditorium, the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, and the Johnny Cash Museum. You can even spend the evening at Bluebird Cafe listening to up-and-coming singers and songwriters or you can dance the night away at one of the honky-tonks.
Moreover, Nashville’s food scene is impeccable. It’s the birthplace of the infamous Nashville Hot Chicken. You’ll also find some of the best biscuits in the country here. Some can’t miss restaurants include Prince’s Chicken Shack, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, and Biscuit Love.
Other fun things to do in Nashville include taking a tour of Belle Meade Plantation, admiring the Parthenon in Centennial Park, going on a mural tour, and experiencing nightlife on Broadway.
By Disha Smith, Disha Discovers
Vacation in Las Vegas to Party and Much More
Las Vegas is one of the best destinations in the United States if you want to enjoy shows, gambling and partying. Most people think of Las Vegas as an entertainment capital, “a 3-day town” that’s great to visit on a weekend to have fun before flying back home.
But Las Vegas is a lot more than that.
The entertainment capital of the world is located within a few hours of driving from many scenic vistas, hidden gems that only a few people know about and some of the most spectacular national parks in the United States, which makes it a perfect base for your adventure trips.
Beyond a classic trip to Grand Canyon, Las Vegas also offers proximity to Death Valley, one of the biggest national parks in the lower 48, as well as world-famous Yosemite and Great Basin National Park, that only a few people have heard about.
And let’s not forget about Utah’s mighty five national parks that are also within a close drive from Las Vegas. While touring these national parks requires time, you can easily create a short itinerary that will allow you to visit 2-3 national parks near Las Vegas in a span of a few days.
For example, you can head to Death Valley before driving north to Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks or do a classic Southwest Utah road trip visiting Zion and Bryce National Parks.
By Daria, The Discovery Nut
Take a Trip to Ocala, Florida for Horseback Riding
One of the best places for a vacation in the USA is Ocala, Florida. Located in Central Florida, it’s about 80 miles northwest of Orlando. Right off of I-75, it’s really easy to get to.
Ocala is known as the “Horse Capital of the World.” Ocala/Marion County is home to more horses and ponies than any other county in the United States. This makes it the perfect place to visit a breeding or training farm and go horseback riding.
Of course, there are other reasons to vacation in Ocala. The city has a very nice historic downtown area with great restaurants and bars. From September through May, First Fridays are held downtown as well. It’s a free event with local artists lining the streets with their work, family activities, and live music.
Ocala also offers a lot of outdoor activities. There are beautiful parks and natural springs within a short drive. And if you’d like to have an adrenaline rush, Ocala also has one of the best zipline courses in Florida!
By Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey
Visit the Eastern Sierra of California for Outdoor Adventures
The Eastern Sierra of California is a fabulous region to visit if you enjoy nature and the outdoors, sprinkled with some old west history and four-season fun activities.
Whether you choose to do a Highway 395 road trip to explore the region, or you base yourself in a town like Mammoth Lakes or Bishop, your vacation will be one to remember. From hiking and boating to scenic drives, wildflower viewing, and birdwatching, the region offers a plethora of nature-focused activities.
READ MORE: The Best West Coast Road Trips
Here you will find Mount Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48 states, the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, which is home to the oldest living organisms on the planet, and Bodie Ghost Town, a relic of the Gold Rush Era in California and now a state park you can explore.
Photograph the natural arches and rock formations of the Alabama Hills. Go bouldering at the Buttermilk Boulders in Bishop. Enjoy boating at one of the many alpine lakes in Mammoth Lakes. Visit Devils Postpile National Monument and see the tufa towers of Mono Lake. In winter, enjoy a wide variety of winter sports, from skiing to snowshoeing.
With so many adrenaline-pumping as well as lower-key outdoor adventures on offer, the Eastern Sierra is the perfect vacation spot, whether you go alone, as a couple, or as a family or group.
Dhara from Roadtripping California
Vacation in Yellowstone National Park for Wildlife and Scenery
Yellowstone National Park is not only America’s first national park, it remains one of the best. There is truly something for everyone. It is a geothermal hotspot, and you can see geysers gushing high into the air. The most famous – and regular – is Old Faithful, which erupts several times a day on a predictable schedule.
However, there are several other geysers that also put on a show throughout the day. There are also brightly colored hot springs, such as the stunning sun-shaped Grand prismatic Spring, as well as bubbling mud pots and churning cauldrons.
Yellowstone also has spectacular waterfalls, including the Lower Falls, which are more than twice the height of Niagara Falls. They thunder down the beautiful Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Artist’s Point is a popular viewing place.
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In addition, Yellowstone is often nicknamed “America’s Serengeti” because of the incredible wildlife. This is one of the best places in the country to see bison, wolves and bears. Lamar and Hayden Valleys are the best places to see wildlife.
By James, Parks Collecting
Explore Mount Rainier National Park for Epic Hiking Trails
One of the best places to visit in the United States is Mount Rainier, National Park. This park is filled with stunning views of tall mountains, waterfalls, lakes, old grove trees, and fire lookouts. It is an incredible place to visit, especially if you are into outdoor travel.
One of the best things to do is to go to the Paradise visitors center and take in the outstanding views of Mount Rainier. Then, you can walk over to a beautiful waterfall called Myrtle Falls and get a great picture with the waterfall and Mount Rainier in the background.
If you are looking to do an intermediate hike with wildlife, wildflowers, and more Mount Rainier views, check out the Skyline loop trail which is the most popular trail in the park. There are some days where it can be cloudy, and on those days, it is best to hike to Comet Falls. It is one of the best waterfalls in the park. Alternatively, if you prefer to explore some fire lookouts, check out Tolmie peak hike and Fremont Lookout trail.
Mount Rainier is an absolute gem and is one of the best national parks in the United States. The views outdoor beauty of this place will blow your mind.
By Michelle, The Wandering Queen
Visit Northern Vermont for Fabulous Food, Drink & Waterfalls
The charming Vermont cities of Burlington and Stowe are a perfect place for a vacation. Both picturesque towns are popular with foodies and those in search of a fabulous microbrewery. Chefs in Vermont pride themselves on local farm to table cuisine. Plus, since Vermont has more breweries per capita than any other state, you are sure to find a brew to your liking.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Green Mountain hiking available nearby both towns. In Stowe, outdoor adventures include hikes to waterfalls, biking on the Stowe Rec Path, or scaling Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont.
In Burlington, rent a bike to take the Burlington bike path to gorgeous beaches along Lake Champlain. For shopping and dining, the pedestrian mall on Church Street is the center of activity.
In the fall Vermont is the best place in the US to vacation as the foliage is without equal. Drive the backcountry roads around Stowe and Burlington to see the landscape on fire with color.
By Karen, Outdoor Adventure Sampler
Vacation in Santa Barbara for Beaches and City Life
It is no secret, Californian coast from LA to San Francisco is one of the most beautiful parts of the USA. And one city stands out in that area – glamorous Santa Barbara!
Arresting Santa Barbara is called ‘the American Riviera’ and it is one of the most popular vacation places in the USA. Mesmerizing Santa Barbara is a must vacation destination for beachgoers, nature lovers, foodies, architecture fans, and art enthusiasts.
Stunning Santa Barbara is famous for the impressive Spanish Colonial Revival, Mediterranean Revival, Victorian and modernist architecture. Fabulous Santa Barbara’s Old Mission is called the “Queen of the Missions” of Alta California for its outstanding beauty.
In addition, this exceptional city features some of the most beautiful pristine beaches in California, unique luxury resorts, trendy boutique hotels, great art galleries, fantastic restaurants, and excellent wine tasting rooms. Vibrant State Street in Santa Barbara downtown has some of the classiest and most romantic restaurants with the most amazing outdoor setting in the USA.
Arty souls can enjoy a unique art collection of the Santa Barbara Museum of Art in State Street as well. On top of it, Santa Barbara’s Leadbetter Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach, East Beach, and West Beach are some of the loveliest sandy beaches in the USA!
So, if you haven’t been to Santa Barbara yet, choose ‘the American Riviera’ for your next vacation. But be careful. Beautiful Santa Barbara might take your heart away!
By Milijana Gabrić, World Travel Connector
Take a Trip to New York City for Happening Nightlife
If you like to indulge in city holidays with buzzing nightlife, one of the best places in the USA to keep you engaged is New York City.
Divided into five boroughs, the city has several neighborhoods with exciting activities and attractions. But the heart of New York City nightlife lies in Times Square. Just taking a walk around the blocks in Times Square at night is an experience by itself. While the larger than life billboards on the streets dazzle your eyes, you get to witness a swarm of people from all walks of life. It is like a representation of diversity and inclusion in motion. Yet you get to disappear in the crowd where everyone seems to stand out.
READ MORE: 10 Epic Free Things to do in NYC
But not just people watching and street hopping, there are plenty of other activities too to choose from in New York City. Enjoy the night city views from the top of one of the tallest buildings in the city. Catch an iconic Broadway show or attend a music concert.
Shop till you drop as you fill your bags with high street fashion brands. Watch street artists putting up their best shows every night and admire painters create magic with fine strokes of their brushes. Catch a baseball game or a football match live.
Every night, after taking in different experiences, when it is time to satisfy the hunger pangs, dine at some of the country’s finest restaurants or hit one of the happening pubs to drink and dance the night away.
By Pubali and Indranil of Paradise Catchers
Visit Seattle for Iconic Attractions and Beautiful Scenery
Seattle, Washington is one of the most naturally gorgeous cities in the United States, tucked between two mountain ranges and along the Puget Sound.
One of the best ways to experience the cities’ natural beauty is to rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak at Alki Beach or Lake Union for breathtaking views of the city’s famous skyline, see mountains peeking out past skyscrapers, and maybe even spot a harbor seal or two!
After all that paddling, you’ll be in need of some fuel- consider visiting the Ballard neighborhood, which has ten awesome breweries within one square mile (not surprising for a city that has the second most breweries per capita in the country!).
If you’re looking for more standard tourist activities, the city, of course, has some not-to-be-missed attractions, like Pike Place Market, a market bustling with coffee shops and vendors peddling everything from spices to crystals, and the Space Needle, the world’s most iconic spaceship-looking building.
READ MORE: The Best Free Things to do in Seattle
While the city limits are certainly worth exploring, the area surrounding Seattle should be given just as much attention- for example, any of the three national parks within a two and a half-hour drive, Mount Rainier, Olympic, or Northern Cascades. Whether you prefer cityscapes or the outdoors, Seattle is a fantastic place to visit!
By Jessica, Uprooted Traveler
Head to Chicago for Incredible Architecture
Chicago is undoubtedly one of the best places for a vacation in the USA at any time of year. The city is the perfect getaway for those who love architecture as it has some of the most impressive buildings and interiors of any city in the USA.
On a three day stay in Chicago, you’ll be treated to beautiful riverside walks and outdoor art installations such as the iconic CloudGate sculpture. You’ll also experience one of the most delicious food cultures in the USA which relies heavily on Italian influence but also branches out into dishes that are uniquely Chicagoan – such as deep-dish pizza or a Chicago style hotdog.
Exploring Chicago’s architecture is completely free. To really experience the juxtaposition with modern art and sculpture against the fabulous art deco period architecture, take some time to visit Millennium Park and observe the very modern art installations there, before heading across the road to the Chicago Cultural Centre which features opulent interiors and a beautiful dome.
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For more architecture exploration, the Rookery building is also worth a stop where the lobby features the work of renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Finally, the Tribune Tower shows a completely different architectural style, hearkening more to the neo-gothic era.
By Emma, Emma Jane Explores
Vacation in Asheville, NC for Hiking and Beer
Nestled into the center of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the charming mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina. It’s one of the best places to vacation in the United States, offering amazing hiking, a thriving art scene, the largest home in America at the Biltmore Estate, and 48 breweries in the greater Asheville area! Whether you’re visiting Asheville for a weekend or for a week, you’ll find plenty to do!
See the best of Asheville by spending your days hiking through the mountains to find incredible views and thundering waterfalls. Some awesome options are Crabtree Falls Trail (2.5 miles) to a stunning waterfall, Craggy Gardens Trail (1.9 miles) for amazing mountain views, or hitting up Dupont State Forest for a wide variety of trails and waterfalls.
If you’re not up to hiking to these sights, don’t worry! You can drive the famous Blue Ridge Parkway that cuts through Asheville. From here you’ll find some unforgettable options like Mount Mitchell State Park – the highest point east of the Mississippi and Looking Glass Falls, which is a 60-foot waterfall right off the highway. Or, you can visit Chimney Rock State Park which offers an elevator up to the top!
By Julia, The Cure for Curiosity
Go To Chincoteague, Virginia for Wildlife and Ice Cream
One of the best places for a vacation in the USA is an overlooked beach destination with wildlife nearby. Chincoteague, Virginia is an idyllic vacation spot nestled in the heart of the east coast.
There are plenty of things to do in Chincoteague so every member of the family can find something they enjoy. Whether it’s relaxing on over thirty miles of beach, enjoying locally sourced fresh seafood, or wildlife spotting, there are so many activities.
While you’re visiting, keep an eye out for the Chincoteague ponies. These ponies call the island home and were made famous by the book “Misty of Chincoteague”. Since they are wild and free to roam the island, you may miss them during your visit. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other animals to spot – including bald eagles!
A vacation isn’t complete without ice cream. There is a debate on the island about which ice cream is better – the soft serve at Mr Whippy’s or the hard ice cream at Island Creamery. Both are locally made with fresh ingredients, so be sure to try both!
No matter what you decide to do in Chincoteague, your vacation will have you feeling relaxed and revitalized.
By Pamela, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Visit Savannah, Georgia for Educational Tours and Historical Architecture
Savannah is known for its beautiful architecture and massive Southern oaks dripping in Spanish moss. The city’s Historic District is the most popular area for visitors. It’s where you can watch ships sail into port along River Street, shop for souvenirs on Broughton Street, or take a leisurely stroll along picturesque Jones Street. Don’t forget to stop by Forsyth Park to snap a selfie in front of the famous fountain!
A few must-see landmarks in the Historic District include the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, First African Baptist Church, and the Davenport House.
Savannah is also a popular spot for foodies. The Olde Pink House restaurant serves Southern-style dishes in the setting of a beautiful historic mansion. Other favorites include Mrs Wilke’s Dining Room, Treylor Park, Alligator Soul, and Vinnie Van Go Go’s.
Visitors who like guided tours can opt for a fun ghost tour, an architectural tour of the Historic District, or a walking tour of Bonaventure Cemetery. There are also numerous Black history tours in Savannah that cover the city’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, Emancipation, and the Civil Rights era.
By Erin, Savannah First-Timer’s Guide
Vacation in Cape Cod for Lighthouses and Seafood
If you are looking for the perfect vacation within the US, Cape Cod is undoubtedly one of the best destinations. A visit to Cape Cod will be filled with pristine beaches, relaxation, lighthouses, quaint shops, and plenty of seafood!
For some of the best beaches on Cape Cod visit the forty-mile-long Cape Cod National Seashore for sandy beaches set with sand dune backdrops. Some of the best beaches along the shore to visit are Coast Guard Beach and Macaroni Beach. You will also want to take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard for a day trip for its pristine beaches, Aquinnah Cliffs, gingerbread cottages, and plenty of quaint, local shops to explore.
A trip to Cape Cod would not be complete without a visit to the endpoint town, Provincetown. Here you can stroll the main streets for some shopping, climb to the top of Pilgrim Monument for stunning views, enjoy an off-roading sand dunes tour, go whale watching, or kick back on some of the best beaches in the US for sunset viewing, including Race Point Beach or Herring Cove Beach.
You will also want to be sure to visit some of the many Cape Cod lighthouses in Provincetown and beyond. For some tasty seafood, choose from an extensive list of restaurants along the Cape Cod seashore.
By Melissa, Navigation Junkie
Take a Trip to Sedona, Arizona for Spirituality
Whether you believe in mysticism or not, there’s no doubt about Sedona being a special destination. The red rock region is ideal for a vacation that combines relaxation, adventure, and a bit of charm. Many travelers believe Sedona is home to positive spirals of energy, known as the Sedona vortexes.
Conveniently, each vortex is found in a scenic spot—appealing to even the strictest of sceptics. Pack a pair of hiking shoes and trek across sandstone arches, along wildflower trails, and to the top of amber-hued buttes. There are hundreds of hiking and mountain biking trails to explore.
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In the city of Sedona itself, you can have your fortune read, shop for healing crystals, and admire artwork on display at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village. Have breakfast at the Coffee Pot Restaurant, a quirky café that serves over 100 types of omelets.
On the outskirts of Sedona, you can have a bird’s eye view of the region from the Airport Mesa Lookout. Or, head into the sky on a hot air balloon ride. From guided meditation vortex tours to off-road Jeep excursions, there are plenty of ways to experience Sedona no matter what type of travel you’re into.
By Chantae, Chantae Was Here
I hope these incredible USA vacation destinations have given you some inspiration for where to go on your next trip. You can also check out my ultimate USA bucketlist if you need some more ideas, so with these, you should have plenty of incredible places to visit in the United States!
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