Such a huge territory to try to include everything that’s worthy to visit in the United States. What are the best holiday locations in the US? Or the best places to visit in the fall in the US? Or maybe you’re looking for the best beach vacation destinations in the US? Also, if you’re looking for the best places to visit in the winter in the US, maybe to go skiing or hiking? And speaking of hiking, do you want to find out which are the best mountains to hike in the US? Do you want to find out what is the best national park in the US? Within these 27 best places to visit in the US, you will find tips for anything. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for the best places to visit in May, or March in the US, or the best places to visit in the US in December, you will find different options from all around the United States. A travel inspiration list that includes cities, mountains, lakes, beaches, and even islands.
27 best places to visit in the US
Now, I know it’s a bit overwhelming to decide, especially when you’ve got so many top places to visit in the US! I must admit, that I am having a hard time deciding which one from my bucket list of places to visit in the US should choose. My personal favorites on this list are definitely New Orleans, New York, LA, Lake Tahoe, Sedona, and the Yellowstone national park. In collaboration with 25 bloggers,
I’ve tried to put together a list of the best places to visit in the US if you’re planning a vacation and you can’t decide about the destinations. This list isn’t done from the best to the worse! It’s an absolutely random arrangement of the top places to visit in the US. Many of these US destinations are close enough to each other to plan a round trip in the US.
1. New York
New York is my personal favorite city in the US. Though I’m still dreaming about New Orleans! New York City is of the best places to visit in the fall in the US. The summer in NYC is really hot, humid, and exhausting, so if you can, try to avoid the summer in New York. We can add this city to the list of the best places to visit in the winter in the US though. Especially if you’re looking for the best place to visit in the US in December. Just think about Christmas in Manhattan, the huge tree on Times Square. New York City is definitely one of the best places to visit in the US in December! Or, here’s the other great reason why you should visit NYC in December, New Year’s Eve.
New York City is full of amazing places, starting with the Empire State Building, the Wall Street, the cute places in East Village, and many other more bucket list items that are just in Manhattan. Also, 5th Avenue, Park Ave, the Central Park are places that you shouldn’t miss. Especially if you’re looking for the best places to visit in the fall in the US, Central Park in September-October time is breathtaking, with million colors and skyscrapers in the background.
Do not miss seeing DUMBO in Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the colorful neighborhood of Williamsburg either! Coney Island is another great option to visit, especially if you’re looking for the best places to visit in the US in June! Oh, and do not, under any circumstance, do not miss Shake Shack burgers! New York is definitely one of the top places to visit in the US!
2. Los Angeles
Oh, LA… I don’t think there’s any traveler out there who never imagined driving a Cabrio along the beach in Malibu! If you didn’t, you will definitely imagine it now as I’ve planted the seed in your brain! Los Angeles is definitely one of the best places to visit in the US for so many reasons! Stunning beaches, breathtaking neighborhoods, great hikes, food, celebrities, movie history, street art, business, fashion… Everything that you want.
Los Angeles should be added to your bucket list of places to visit in the US, especially if you’re looking for the best places to visit in June in the US. A warm summer getaway is always great, no? A 5-day Los Angeles itinerary is needed at least to see everything! Strolling the streets of Downtown LA, the Hollywood sign, or surfing on Venice beach might just be the perfect vacation for you. Especially if you’re looking for the type of city escape where you’ve got nature and the sea close by. LA is one of the best beach vacation destinations in the US. Make sure you also look up some great day trips from Los Angeles too!
3. New Orleans
by Slavka from On2Continents
The top #1 item on my bucket list of places to visit in the US! New Orleans is a famous city with famous culture, music, food, festivals, and architecture. It’s one of the best places to visit in the US, one of those really unique places to visit in the US for fun and an incredible experience, a must-see. Locals lovingly call their city Nola. Thanks to its southern location, the city has a warm climate and is perfect for year-round travel.
So if you’ve been looking for the best places to visit in the winter in the US, or the best place to visit in the US in June, the best places to visit in the winter in the US, or the best places to visit in the US in May, New Orleans is your place!
It’s wise to stay for several days because there is too much to see and do, so a weekend trip won’t do. First, you must start with the historic city center. French Quarter has amazing architecture and is the main attraction. Walk around, listen to music and watch street performances of myriads of eccentric street artists. While downtown, try local specialties such as po’boys or beignets with coffee and go for a walk along the Mississippi River.
Next is the picturesque Garden District and intriguing cemeteries, especially the Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 with its historic tombstones. An absolute must is a swamp tour. Alligators are fascinating and if you come from far away, you’ll learn a lot about them. You’ll see alligators, snakes, and nutrias from a very close distance. New Orleans is a special place, you’ll love it there.
4. San Francisco
by Stéphanie from Bey Of Travel
San Francisco is one of the best places to visit in the US. The city by the bay is home to a variety of backgrounds and cultures and is well known for its LGBT-friendly mindset. San Francisco is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in the US, and a great travel destination if you’re looking for the best places to visit in the US in May or June.
The city is also known for its Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Pier 39 and it has countless good restaurants and great shopping districts. Make sure to grab lunch at Swan Oyster Depot, probably the smallest restaurant in town, with only 18 seats, this family business has become world-famous for its excellent seafood. Reservations are not an option, so you will have to queue, but it’s worth the wait! Besides New York, San Francisco has the largest Chinatown in America where you can eat delicious Asian food on every corner of the street.
Bear in mind that San Francisco is one of the wealthiest and most expensive cities in America, make sure to book your hotel room well in advance, to avoid extremely high rates.
5. Lake Tahoe
by Jan from Leisurely Drives
Lake Tahoe is another on my bucket list of places to visit in the US, and definitely one of the most unique places to visit in the US. Located at a leisurely drive of 4 hours from San Francisco on the I-80 east route, Lake Tahoe is a popular all-season weekend destination. This beautiful lake straddles California and Nevada and is nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Although Lake Tahoe has hoards of visitors during summer and the Winter, with tons of winter activities, fall time visit is particularly popular due to lesser crowds, more pleasant weather, and the stunning fall time colors of yellow and orange.
The best things to do here include watching the unique Kokanee salmon spawning at Taylor Creek, taking cruises on the lake, driving around the 70-mile perimeter stopping at vantage points for views, and visiting the nearby Hope Valley and Emerald Bay national park to enjoy fall color views and also various hikes and trails. There is a boat ride in Emerald Lake to explore Fannette Island and an old castle on it.
Airbnbs and other fully equipped cabins and houses with more privacy, perfect for a weekend, are plenty around the lake. The Beach Retreat & Lodge – a beachfront hotel located in South Lake is another great choice for accommodation. Boathouse on the Pier and Café Fiore is worth checking out for good food options.
6. Death Valley National Park, California
by Olivia from the Girl With Blue Sails
Death Valley, another one of the best places to best places to visit in the US! Death Valley National Park is located in California’s beautiful Mojave Desert and is one of the hottest places on earth. While the extreme weather makes this park inhospitable during the summer months, it is one of the best places to visit in the fall in the US, winter, and spring months.
Visiting Death Valley feels like stepping onto another planet. Mountains vary in colors from purple to teal, sand dunes create changing shadows at sunrise and sunset, and the views of the stars at night are impeccable.
One of the most popular things to do in Death Valley is to visit the Badwater Basin Salt Flats. At 282 feet below sea level, it is the lowest point in North America. The diamond-shaped rock formations are otherworldly. Another popular attraction is the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Visitors are welcome to wander into the sand dunes as far as they like.
There are only a couple of hotels and campsites located inside the national park, but it’s recommended to stay inside the park in order to be close to all the sightseeing. No matter where visitors choose to stay the night, the experience of the sun settling down in the California desert is an experience of a lifetime.
7. Las Vegas
by Pam from The Directionally Challenged Traveler
One of the best places to visit in the United States is the iconic city of Las Vegas, one of the top budget gambling destinations. There’s no other city that has quite the personality of Las Vegas. From gambling to shows, the lights of the city can amaze any visitor. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the fall in the US, Las Vegas might just be a perfect choice.
Walking down the Strip, travelers can enjoy fun-themed casinos like New York New York, or Luxor, enjoy crepes in Paris, or even ride a gondola at the Venetian. Adrenaline junkies can drive a sports car at Exotics Racing or jump off the Stratosphere! History buffs can enjoy the history of Las Vegas at the Neon Museum. There are plenty of incredible restaurants in most casinos, but there’s nothing quite like dining at the Top of the World. The restaurant is at the top of the Stratosphere with incredible views of the Strip.
There are also plenty of free things to do in Las Vegas that show off some of the best of the city. Enjoy the light shows and street performers of Fremont Street or the dancing waters outside the Bellagio. There’s nowhere else in the United States that so many different things are in a short distance from each other. Vegas is great for a US staycation!
8. Key West, FL
by Disha Smith from Disha Discovers
Key West is definitely another of the best places to visit in the US that you should consider! One of the best places to visit in the US is Key West, Florida. Key West has the third-largest barrier reef in the world making it a great place to experience various marine life. It also has a laid-back and relaxing vibe with endless warm weather. Moreover, it’s a history lover’s heaven with roots tied to Ernest Hemingway and more. Lastly, the unique thing about Key West is that you can see the southernmost point of the continental United States here.
Some of the best things to do in Key West include doing a Miami to Key West drive, stroll along Duval Street, touring the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, watching the sunset on Mallory Square, exploring Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, taking a selfie in front of the Southernmost Point buoy, and more. End your day by grabbing dinner at Key West Fish & Chips. They serve delicious fresh seafood. Make sure you know what to pack for Key West, and enjoy!
Key West is a great destination if you’re looking for the best place to visit in the US in June, and one of the best beach vacation destinations in the US! You can also plan a budget trip to Miami from here. Moreover, let’s not forget how easy is to get to Cuba! If you want to explore one of the most charming islands in Central America, explore the beautiful city of Havana Cuba, it’s a great place to start from!
9. Savannah, GA
by Sydney from A World in Reach
When it comes to the bucket list of places to visit in the US, Savannah, these beautiful roads and those 19-century houses can’t be missed. For travelers looking for a city full of Southern charm, one of the best places to visit in the US, undoubtedly consider a Savannah itinerary. This gorgeous city near the Georgia coast truly has it all.
The star of the show when exploring Savannah is its Historic District, which dates back to before the Civil War. Here, you can admire the 18th and 19th-century architecture seen in historic homes, churches, museums, and other buildings. The Historic District is also home to lush green spaces, including 22 unique city squares and the sprawling Forsyth Park, home to the iconic Forsyth Fountain.
Explore the Historic District and learn about its past during the day, then at night take a ghost tour of some of the district’s most haunted spots. After all, Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the US! Savannah is also the perfect place to sample southern cuisine. From homestyle staples like fried chicken and collard greens to fresh seafood, you can always find something delicious in Savannah. For a nice dinner, make reservations at The Olde Pink House – this is the perfect way to end a wonderful weekend trip. So if you’ve been looking for some unique places to visit in the US, consider Savannah!
Let’s move on to some other best places to visit in the US
10. Denali National Park
by Riley (The Parks Expert)
I have been to all 50 states and over 200 national park sites, but Denali National Park remains my favorite. It’s one of the best places to visit in the US, especially if you’re looking for the best mountains to hike in the US! The Denali National park is also one of the best places to visit in the fall in the US.
Why? Denali is one of the most unique landscapes in the world. The elevation in the park ranges from 1,000 to 20,310 feet at the top of Denali, the highest peak in North America. As you explore the park by bus, you travel from the boreal forest to the open tundra.
The park also features unique things to do. For instance, you can join a park ranger for a sled dog demonstration in the only kennel in the National Park Service. The park is also largely accessed by buses which transport you along the 92-mile road. Along the way, you’ll likely be treated to a host of wild animals such as grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves, lynx, fox, and more.
While these are great things to do in Denali, I will always prefer to explore the park on foot. While there are only 20 hiking trails in Denali, they offer a wide variety of experiences. Denali is also unique in that visitors are encouraged to explore the park off-trail to see the vast wilderness.
How will you choose to see this incredible place?
11. San Diego
by Dymphe from Dymabroad
One of the best places to visit in the United States is San Diego. You can find this lovely city in the state of California, close to Los Angeles. San Diego has a lot of great activities that are a lot of fun! There are stunning beaches, beautiful parks, and some very interesting museums! Furthermore, the weather in the city is great throughout the year.
Thus, there is something for everyone! One of the best things to do in San Diego is going to Balboa Park. This is a large park where you can find a lot of great sights. For example, you find here the California Tower, which is a beautiful tower. Also, you find many museums at Balboa Park.
One of the best museums is the San Diego Museum of Art, where you can see a variety of fine arts. Another great thing to do in the city is going to Mission Beach. This is a beautiful beach that is perfect for a relaxing time. Furthermore, you also find here Belmont Park, which is a fun amusement park. Because of all the things to do and see, you can easily spend one week in San Diego!
12. Sedona
By Sam from My Flying Leap
You’re asking what is the best national park in the US? Here’s another item to your bucket list of places to visit in the US, Sedona. Once you’ve seen the stunning red rock buttes of Sedona, you’ll never want to leave. They are breathtakingly beautiful and there’s something incredibly enchanting about this town.
Sedona is filled with artists, spiritualists, nature lovers. Tour the many galleries filled with locally-made treasures or visit a vortex for something unique to Sedona, to see if you can feel the energy.
Hiking is a top activity in red rock country and there are trails ranging from easy to difficult showcasing this striking area. If you’re looking for the best mountains to hike in the US, Sedona will blow your mind! Some favorites are Devil’s Bridge, Boynton Canyon, West Fork, and Bell Rock. Or, take a Pink Jeep tour to explore the area.
Take a trip to nearby Cottonwood to enjoy the many wineries in the area, or take a day trip to Flagstaff or Phoenix. You’ll see a range of Arizona beauty from low-valley desert to high-elevation pine tree forests.
There’s so much to Arizona, and Sedona is one of the highlights. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, the incredible artwork, and the fun vibe. Sedona truly has it all! One of the most beautiful places to visit in the US!
13. Maui, Hawaii
by Sarah Vanheel from CosmopoliClan
Maui, is definitely one of the top places to visit in the US! The signature Maui postcard features swaying palm trees against a backdrop of golden sand and turquoise ocean waters. Hawaii is definitely one of the best tropical places to visit in the US! But did you know that this tropical playground is also packed with adventurous activities?
Combine beach bliss with an unforgettable sunrise experience at the top of the Haleakala volcano, an exciting waterfall hike, a seasonal whale-watching excursion, an epic road trip along the Hana Highway, a visit to the intriguing ‘Iao Valley, or a mesmerizing snorkeling trip to the Molokini crater. You should also prepare to make a list of the best places to eat in Maui!
Spend your evenings in one of Maui’s charming towns such as Lahaina, the former whaling town with its amazing art galleries and magnificent banyan tree, and Paia, the colorful surfer town with its boho shops that’s also home to the island’s most iconic restaurant called Mama’s Fish House. End the day with a relaxing stroll along with one of the meandering palm-fringed coastal paths that connect some of the finest places to stay in Maui while enjoying refreshing shave ice.
14. Kauai, Hawaii
by Marcie from Hawaii Travel with Kids
If you like drop-dead gorgeous views, you’ll want to head to Kauai. Kaui in Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US, and also one of the most unique places to visit in the US. It’s one of the least crowded Hawaiian islands and it’s perfect for people who love outdoor adventures and farm-to-table dining. There are so many things to do on Kauai for all types of travelers.
Kauai has amazing hiking trails, snorkeling, mountain tubing, ziplining, food tours, luaus, and so much more. Head up to the North Shore town of Hanalei and spend time relaxing at Hanalei Beach, the inspiration for “Puff the Magic Dragon.” There are also sweeping views of taro fields and majestic mountains.
You can also drive up to the end of the road in Haena and hike to a waterfall on the Na Pali Coast. For one of the best sit-down meals, try Tahiti Nui. They often have live music at night and even host an intimate luau. You’ll also want to experience their food truck scene (top picks include Holey Grail Donuts, Hanalei Taro & Juice Co, and Wishing Well Shave Ice). Hanalei is one of the cutest surf towns and you’ll love the slower pace of life. Kaui, Hawaii is definitely one of the best tropical places to visit in the US, one of the best beach vacation destinations in the US!
15. Zion National Park
by Steve Coffee from Maps Over Coffee
Zion National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the United States. It only takes one jaw-dropping glance to understand why Zion National Park should be on your bucket list of places to visit in the US. So what is the best national park in the US? Besides Sedona, we’ve got now Zion as well!
If you are fortunate enough to enter through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, you will see that you aren’t just passing through a tunnel. It’s more like a portal to another world. Windows are carved out of the tunnel to gaze down the Zion valley for your first views of the massive sandstone carvings you are about to explore.
If you time it right during the off-season, you can drive down the Floor of the Valley Road known as the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to get an overview of the highlights. During the busy season, the National Park Service has shuttles with convenient drop-off points.
No matter your skill level, there is a hiking trail for you. Some are paved and flat, following the Virgin River. Both the Riverside Walk and the Pa’rus Trail are handicap accessible.
Other trails are much more challenging but rewarding. If you have the guts, hike to Angel’s Landing. A sheer cliff with a 1,500 dropoff offers a view unlike any in the world. If that’s too intense, you can back out at Scout’s Landing with a good-enough-I’d-rather-live view. With 3 campgrounds and a lodge, there are plenty of places to stay. And even if you don’t stay at the lodge, it’s a great place to grab a bite to eat after an epic hike. Another of the best mountains to hike in the US!
16. Mesa Verde National Park
by Agnes from The Van Escapes
Mesa Verde National Park in Southwest Colorado is a unique place in the United States. What’s more, in 1978, Mesa Verde was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its exceptional archaeological relevance. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the fall in the US, Mesa Verde should be a great option, since in the fall the temperature is more acceptable too!
For some of you, Mesa Verde might be one of the best unknown places to visit in the US, so keep reading! The main attraction of this national park is the pre-Columbian pueblo housing estates built in the canyon wall on cliffs by the Anasazi Indians. It is estimated that the estates were built in the period between the 6th and 14th centuries AD. The individual buildings are terraced, and between them, there are oval kivas, buildings of religious importance. In the 14th century, the inhabitants left the area.
So, in Mesa Verde National Park, you can step into the past and experience the lives of one of America’s oldest cultures, the Pueblo people.
One of the best places to see and do in Mesa Verde is visiting cliff dwellings. The most amazing are Cliff Palace, Long House, Mug House, and Square Tower House. It’s necessary to book in advance a ranger-guided tour to learn about the history of this place. It’s also a great idea to drive a Mesa Top Loop Road – from viewpoints, you can admire cliff dwellings.
The closest town where you can stay for a night or stop for lunch is Cortez – 10 miles from the park entrance, Mancos 8 miles, and Durango 36 miles from the park.
17. Dry Tortugas National Park
By Cami Neves from travelcami.com
Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most beautiful and remote places to visit in the United States! iThe park consists of several small islands in the Gulf of Mexico, but only Garden Key is open for visitation. Dry Tortugas might be categorized also as one of the underrated places to visit in the US, as it’s definitely not as known as many of the above.
Its beauty is due to the incredible turquoise water that surrounds the island, the vibrant marine life, and of course, the imponent Fort Jefferson.
Since it is located approximately 70 miles from Key West, getting there requires a boat or seaplane ride. The tours leave almost every morning from the Key West Ferry Terminal, but they sell out super fast, so make sure to book in advance.
Regarding what to do once you get to Dry Tortugas, there are many fun things to do on the island, like snorkeling in a shipwreck, touring Fort Jefferson, fishing, and enjoying the stunning beaches. You can read more about visiting Dry Tortugas National Park here.
18. Myers Beach, Florida
by Lori from naplesfloridatravelguide.com
Myers Beach in Florida should be considered also one of the top places to visit in the US. When looking for one of the best places to visit in the US, especially for a beach vacation, look no further than Fort Myers Beach, Florida. With 7 miles of wide pristine beaches on the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Fort Myers Beach is laid-back and family-friendly.
Spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming, and shelling. The gentle surf and crystal-clear waters make swimming quite safe and ideal for kids. Rent a kayak or go parasailing for a bird’s eye view over the local barrier islands. A fishing pier is a great place for views of the beach and for those fiery sunsets that Fort Myers Beach is famous for.
Two of the best beaches in Fort Myers are Crescent Beach Family Park on the south side of the Fort Myers Beach Pier — ideal for families and anglers — and Bowditch Point, a more secluded beach park. When you get hungry or thirsty, there are casual walk-ups and concessions conveniently located all along the beach.
After sunset, your dining choices range from pizza parlors to upscale restaurants and everything in between. For fresh seafood, the local favorite is the Dixie Fish Company. Myers Beach, FL is definitely the best place to visit in the US in June, one of the best beach vacation destinations in the US.
19. Washington DC
by Astrid from thewanderingdaughter.com
Washington, DC is a vibrant city brimming with history, culture, and politics. In order to understand how all of these elements blend together into one unique city, take some time to explore the many fascinating things to do in DC.
Must-see sites in DC include the National Mall memorials, such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. You also can’t miss exploring the Smithsonian museums, especially the National Museum of African American History and Culture. All the Smithsonian museums have free admission.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Old Town Alexandria, located south of DC. Further south is Mount Vernon, the home of America’s first President, George Washington. The Lincoln Theater is also a great spot to learn about DC’s history. This theater hosted many of America’s greatest jazz musicians, like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday. Besides exploring the many monuments and museums in DC, spend some time exploring the city’s food scene as well. Ben’s Chili Bowl is a DC staple. And Busboys and Poets, with multiple locations throughout the city, is a popular brunch spot for DC locals. If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, head to DC Wharf.
20. Yellowstone National Park
by Jürgen & Martina from PlacesofJuma
And another item for your bucket list of places to visit in the US. If you’re looking for the best mountains to hike in the US, one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US is definitely Yellowstone! One of the most amazing places to visit in the USA is for sure the Yellowstone National Park. Since 1978 it is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and therefore for many a must-visit in the USA.
If you’re asking what is the best national park in the US, Yellowstone is definitely between the top 3! This amazing park gives home to hundreds of animal species, including even grizzly bears, moose, wolves, and bison. Interesting is also that this park is named after the largest park river, the Yellowstone River.
The main part of the gorgeous NP is located in the US state of Wyoming. Fascinating is that this national park, which covers an area of around 9,000 square kilometers, was founded in 1872 and is, therefore, the oldest national park in the world!
Yellowstone National Park is especially famous for its breathtaking thermal springs and the 3,000 hissing geysers – like the Old Faithful, which is one of the most important attractions there. In any case, don`t miss the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest thermal spring in the USA, which is also uniquely beautiful.
There is no 1-day pass available. The 7-day pass to Yellowstone National Park costs $35/vehicle. The annual pass is $80.
the last 7 of the best places to visit in the US
21. Breckenridge, Colorado
by Diane from travelwitheli.com
Here’s one of the best places to visit in the winter in the US! Breckenridge is a ski resort town that should be on everyone’s US travel bucket list. Located high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains but less than a two-hour drive from Denver, Breckenridge is the perfect mountain resort destination.
The best thing about Breckenridge, besides the skiing and incredible mountain scenery, is that there is something for everyone year-round. Even if you don’t ski you can enjoy a fabulous mountain getaway.
In the winter, Breckenridge offers world-class skiing with 5 peaks and almost 3,000 skiable acres. It is also within 50 miles of 5 other ski great resorts. Summer in Breckenridge is just as much fun as winter. Breckenridge Epic Discovery offers ziplining, alpine slides, a mountain coaster, and so much more. The hiking options in and around Breckenridge are incredible. Take a free ride on the Breckconnect gondola in the summer or fall for amazing mountain views.
For such a small town, Breckenridge has numerous restaurant options. Downstairs at Erics on Main Street is a local’s favorite. The pizza is great and there is a large arcade to enjoy while you wait for your table. For fine dining the Hearthstone is top-notch. No matter the time of year, Breckenridge is a wonderful destination.
22. Carmel by the Sea
By Trijit Mallick from BudgetTravelBuff
Carmel may not be a well-known vacation destination, aside from California locals. Also, it might be one of the underrated places to visit in the US. The Carmel by the sea is located just a short drive distance from San Francisco, Carmel-by the Sea is an enchanting US town in Monterey County with a laidback atmosphere and surrounding scenery. This is a great spot to stop by on the Pacific Coast.
From the picturesque Spanish-inspired architecture to unique boutique shops, excellent restaurants, wine tasting, and unique fairytale cottages, there you will find plenty of things to do in Carmel by the Sea. You must visit Carmel beach if you are looking for a less crowded beach unlike Malibu, Coronado, or Santa Monica. This beach at the end of Ocean Avenue is known for its silky white sand and clear blue waves.
Dog owners will definitely love to visit this beach as your furry friend is welcome here on a leash. Point Lobos State Reserve is another beautiful spot in Carmel that offers pleasant hiking trails as well as some pretty striking scenery. After visiting Point Lobos, take a slow drive through 17 miles scenic drive. There are 17 remarkable stops on the way. Make sure to visit the Lone Cypress and the Del Monte Forest. Lone Cypress is one of the most photographed spots in The US.
If you are hungry, stop at Stationaery and try their potato pancake, chilaquiles, and avocado toast.
23. Fredericksburg, TX
by Victoria Coulter from roamingtheusa.com
German restaurants. Lots of historical sites. World-class wineries. Fredericksburg, Texas, is hands down one of the best places to visit in the US.
Something interesting about this place is that Fredericksburg was founded by German immigrants. So there is no better way to start off your trip than indulging in European dishes—this is by far one of the best things to do in town! Fredricksburg might be considered one of the underrated places to visit in the US, but it will prove everyone wrong.
There are plenty of great things to do in Fredericksburg. For instance, you could stop by Otto’s German Bistro, which brings the best of German cuisine with locally grown produce.
After that, visit the local museums and historical sites to learn about the national and local’s past. Places like the National Museum of the Pacific War, Pioneer Museum, and Vereins Kirche Museum are 100% worth the visit.
To wrap up your trip to this German enclave in style, pay a visit to one of the excellent vineyards surrounding the town. Still, since Fredericksburg is Nested in the heart of the Texas Wine Country, you can also find great tasting rooms in Downtown too. Victoria Coulter from Roaming the USA
24. Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes
by Kris from My Michigan Travel
Sleeping Bear sand dunes is another of the best places to visit in the US. It’s easy to see why Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore in northern Michigan was once named America’s most beautiful beach. With sand dunes towering hundreds of feet above the turquoise blue waters of Lake Michigan, you’ll be treated to views that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean.
Don’t miss the Pierce-Stocking Scenic Drive, which takes you up to the top of some of the tallest dunes and offers a spectacular viewing deck that allows you to look over the edge nearly straight down into the water. In another area, there’s a specially designated dune that you’re invited to climb.
It’s fun but more challenging than it looks, so don’t be afraid to turn around and head back to the parking lot if you’re struggling. The small towns of Empire and Glen Arbor offer the closest dining options, but if you have the time, it’s well worth venturing half an hour east to the resort town of Traverse City to enjoy its popular restaurant scene or driving north to the Leelanau Peninsula to sample its many wineries. Sleeping Bear san dunes can be one of the best beach vacation destinations in the US!
25. Everglades, Flordia
by Victoria from guideyourtravel.com
The Everglades in Flordia is one of the most beautiful areas of the US. This massive area of swampland and mangroves is home to countless rare animal species and is a favorite among tourists. One of the best ways to explore the area is by kayak.
You can go on a guided kayak tour which will take to through the mangroves to see alligators, rare birds, and of course a beautiful sunrise or sunset. Many visitors will go on an airboat tour but a kayak is actually a lot more peaceful and better for the environment. Hiking or camping are also great activities in this area.
The Everglades are all about outdoor life and enjoying nature. You can easily reach this national park from Miami. The drive is under an hour and you’ll be amazed by how close to the city this incredible wonder of nature actually is. Don’t forget to pack your camera. The photos will be stunning. Everglades is another best place to visit in the US in June. When you ask what is the best national park in the US, we can’t answer with one, as Everglades National Park is unmissable too!
26. Martha’s Vineyard
by Julie from More than Main Street
Looking for the perfect weekend getaway in the northeast USA? Consider a vacation to Martha’s Vineyard. This charming island off of Cape Cod is sure to steal your heart. You’ll have to take a ferry to get there, but that is half the fun. It’s definitely one of the best unknown places to visit in the US (or not that known).
Once you’re on the island, choose how you will get around: walk, bicycle, public bus, or rent a vehicle. There are plenty of things to do within walking distance in Oak Bluffs. Check out the adorable gingerbread houses at The Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association, ride America’s oldest carousel, and do some shopping.
If you have time to venture further on the island, consider renting bicycles to get around, go lighthouse hunting, and soak in some sun on the beautiful beaches. The movie Jaws was filmed on the island and it is also fun to visit some of the more famous filming locations.
Be sure to pop into Vineyard Vines during your visit and grab an ice cream cone from Mad Martha’s. Need something a little more substantial to eat? We loved Lucky Hank’s and Among the Flowers Cafe. Whatever you choose to do on the island, Martha’s Vineyard will be a destination you won’t forget
27. Great Smoky Mountains
by Rai from A Rai of Light
If you love nature, you’re looking for the best mountains to hike in the US, and you’re in search of the most beautiful places to visit in the US, the Smoky Mountains are just perfect for you! The Great Smoky Mountains, located in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee, is renowned for its rich diversity in plant and animal species. The area, encompassing over 800 square miles of natural and man-made attractions, is a magnet for outdoor lovers.
Highlights of a visit include Clingmans Dome Observation Tower, the Sugarlands, Fontana Lake, and Cades Cove. The Smokies are also sought after for their scenery and scenic overlooks are an amazing way to observe the changing terrain. The park offers miles of trails and hiking is a popular activity to witness the rising sun.
Other recommended pursuits include river tubing, horseback riding, and fishing. To get a good feel for the park and its surroundings, it is recommended to spend at least 4 days here with the best time to visit is the summer and fall months. Getting here is simple enough with the closest airport, McGee-Tyson, less than 25 miles west of the park.
Wrapping up the best places to visit in the US
Beyond the US, there are plenty of amazing places to discover in Europe, South America, Africa, and Asia too. If you’re looking for something closer to the US, make sure you check out our article for the best places to visit in Mexico, as well as some great adult-only resorts in Mexico! This bucket list of places to visit in the US should’ve definitely made you want to start packing, am I right? The most unique places in the US, the most beautiful places in the US, everything on one list.
There are so many of the best places to visit in the fall in the US or the best places to visit in the winter in the US that you should explore! There are enough stunning destinations for literally every week of the year. Also, you must have found some tips for the best place to visit in the US in June, and the best places to visit in the US in May. If you’ve been asking what is the best national park in the US, in this article you’ve found the answer. Actually, more than one answer! Stay tuned for more inspiring content, tips, and guides!
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