The United States has no shortage of exotic and exciting places to travel, ranging from the swampy coasts of Louisiana to the wilds of Alaska. These locations offer beautiful scenery, rich history, and abundant outdoor experiences. If you’re a tourist, you can choose to go on an adventure at any of these destinations or even combine them into a multi-destination vacation. Here are twelve of our favorite U.S. destinations for your next trip:
- The Everglades
Florida is home to two incredible national parks—Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve—and it’s also known as America’s Wetlands. There are hundreds of species of birds that live there, including endangered sea turtles, egrets, and ibis. It’s also the perfect place to spot alligators roaming freely in the park.
- New England
New England offers visitors more than just scenic beauty. There are plenty of hiking trails, historical sites, and other outdoor activities to keep you busy during your stay. Take a look at Mount Washington in New Hampshire, where you can climb to the top of the highest peak in the Northeast. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views across the White Mountains and back down to the city below.
- Gatlinburg
Located near Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a great family vacation spot. It’s close to some of the most popular national parks in the country, so it’s easy to visit multiple destinations on a single trip. You can choose to stay in the Gatlinburg cabins, located right next to the slopes, or opt for a hotel room closer to the main drag. Either way, you’re sure to have a fun time exploring this mountain town.
- North Carolina’s Outer Banks
North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a popular destination for beach lovers, but it’s also got plenty of natural attractions. The best beaches are on the Atlantic side, where you can find long stretches of sand that are rarely crowded. There are many opportunities to explore the coast here, from the Great Dismal Swamp to Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.
- Miami Beach
Miami Beach is another excellent place to spend your summer holiday, especially if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. With warm weather year-round, Miami Beach is a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming. But it’s also famous for its nightlife, so don’t forget to check out South Beach while you’re there.
- The Grand Canyon
You might think that the Grand Canyon is just a colossal canyon, but it’s one of the world’s greatest geological wonders. It’s so large that you could drive around it for days without seeing everything there is to see. The best part about visiting the Grand Canyon is that you can walk through it, allowing you to experience it firsthand.
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- Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is a popular vacation spot for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. There are tons of hiking trails to explore and plenty of animals to see. If you visit in the springtime, you’ll probably catch sight of elk, bison, and moose along the roads.
- Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is known for its breathtaking waterfalls, lush forests, and towering mountains. You can take a hike up Half Dome or visit the giant sequoia trees that are over 2,000 years old. You can also enjoy a relaxing day in one of the park’s many hot springs.
- Las Vegas
Las Vegas is full of action and excitement, with casinos, shows, and nightclubs where you can lose yourself in the thrill of the moment. You can even try your luck at one of the casino hotels, which feature all kinds of slot machines and table games. Las Vegas is also known for its nightlife, so make sure to schedule plenty of free time after dark.
- Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a gorgeous alpine lake nestled between two mountain ranges. It’s surrounded by high peaks and snow-capped mountains, making it a spectacular place to relax and unwind. Lake Tahoe is also known for its skiing and boarding, which means you can practice your favorite winter sport whenever you like.
- New York City
New York City is the epitome of urban living. It’s home to skyscrapers, museums, art galleries, and countless other cultural attractions. You can spend hours wandering the streets of Manhattan, or you can head to Brooklyn to visit the Williamsburg Bridge or the Brooklyn Museum.
- Acadia National Park
Acadia is one of the most underrated national parks in the country. It’s known for its dramatic coastline and rugged cliffs, as well as its pristine lakes and meadows. You can take a boat tour around Frenchman Bay or rent a kayak to paddle your way around the area.
- Chicago
Chicago is one of the Midwest’s biggest cities, and it’s also one of the oldest in the country. You can spend your entire trip walking around the city, taking in all the sights and sounds of the Windy City. You can also visit the Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago, filled with incredible works of art.
- San Francisco
San Francisco is known for its eclectic culture and colorful history. You can wander through Chinatown, check out the Golden Gate Bridge, and walk through the Presidio. If you enjoy spending time along the seashore, gazing at the ocean and admiring its beauty, Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to watch the boats come and go.
- Key West
Key West is a tropical island paradise, and it’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and unique cuisine. The best way to experience Key West is to relax on the beach and soak up the sun. You can also visit Duval Street, which is filled with bars, restaurants, and shops selling all sorts of souvenirs.
- Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton is one of the most popular national parks, with millions of people visiting every year. You can take a scenic drive through the park, or you can also enjoy a hike along the Snake River. Stay at one of the lodges within the park, where you can wake up each morning to stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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- Charleston, SC
Charleston is a great place to visit if you’re looking for Southern charm and hospitality. There are tons of historic buildings and monuments to explore, and the city’s food scene is second to none. You can also spend your time at one of the many outdoor markets, where you can pick up fresh produce and local delicacies.
- Savannah, GA
Savannah is known for its historic architecture and charming downtown. It’s also home to some of the best seafood in the country, so you should plan to stop by the pier and sample some shrimp and grits.
- Denver, CO
Denver is one of the most vibrant cities in the country, with a lively music scene and plenty of outdoor adventures to enjoy. You can hike to the top of Longs Peak or visit the National Western Center, which houses the largest collection of western memorabilia in the world.
- Seattle
Seattle is known for its scenic waterfront, quirky locals, and sophisticated dining scene. You can spend your whole trip exploring the city’s numerous neighborhoods, from Capitol Hill to Ballard. Visit Pike Place Market, where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables straight from the source.
Final Words
Whether you’re looking for an exotic location to visit this summer or you’re planning a family vacation, there’s no shortage of options available. Pick your destination based on what you’re interested in seeing, and then pack your bags for a memorable trip.
