From Beachfront Getaways To Northern Lights Viewpoints, These Are The Very Best Vacation Spots In The US
The US is one of the most diverse countries in the world where you can find almost any landscape or climate imaginable. As a result, there are so many unique places to explore. So, whether you're daydreaming about your next vacation or planning a getaway, here are some of the best destinations in the country to consider.
1.Charleston, South Carolina
This quaint city boasts a walkable, colorful downtown area, a wildly impressive food and drink scene (a meal at 167 Raw is a must), and proximity to nearby beaches like Sullivan's Island. Add to that pleasant year-round weather, and it's easy to see why Charleston is an ideal long weekend getaway, perfect for a romantic weekend, a family affair, or a friends-cation (lookin' at you, bachelorette parties).
2.Kauai, Hawaii
Often overshadowed by Oahu, this fourth largest of Hawaii's islands is nicknamed the Garden Island for its lush, jungly, and rugged landscape. Here, you'll find tropical rainforests, incredible beaches, and excellent hiking trails (don't miss Sleeping Giant on Nounou Mountain and Waimea Canyon State Park). And if you think the stunning Na Pali Coast looks familiar, that's probably because you recognize it from the scenes of Jurassic Park or Pirates of the Caribbean.
3.Austin, Texas
Austin is more than just beer and barbecue (although there's plenty of that, too). Thanks to mild winters, Austin is a year-round destination. You'll find live music pretty much anywhere you look, especially at the bustling bars along Rainey Street. And while you could eat barbecue to your heart's content, this southern city has great global eats from masa-focused Mexican food at Suerte to Texas-Japanese fusion at Kemuri Tatsu-Ya. If you're looking for a day trip, explore the wineries, breweries, and hiking spots scattered around Hill Country.
4.Cape Cod, Massachusetts
This peninsula that extends off the coast of mainland Massachusetts is one of the most popular summer destinations in the Northeast, but you can also take advantage of Cape Cod's beauty (and lower prices) in the off season. During the summer months, you can explore beaches galore, but in the cooler weather, there are nature trails, breweries, quaint towns, bike paths, cranberry bogs, and plenty of cozy bed and breakfasts where you can curl up by the fire and take in the coastal views.
5.Sun Valley, Idaho
Idaho might not be on your list of top places to visit, but it should be. Sun Valley is a hidden gem of an adventure destination with plenty of activities for both summer and winter travel. In the colder months, Bald Mountain is a great ski destination, and during the summer, there's hiking, biking, and golfing. The main town, Ketchum, is a year-round hotspot for art galleries, great restaurants, and low-key bars and saloons.
6.Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Located just 40 minutes from Portland, Columbia River Gorge can be a destination of its own or a day trip from the city. There are breweries, wineries and cider orchards, great restaurants, scenic views, and incredible hiking spots. Whether you're looking for a beginner-friendly walk through the gorge or an advanced hike, this area has it all. And if you visit during the spring, make sure to drive the Hood River Valley's Fruit Loop past local orchards and farm stands.
7.Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Skip Mount Rushmore for this hugely underrated national park in southwestern South Dakota. With its colorful spires and pinnacles, buttes and gorges, the rugged landscape is nothing short of incredible, and it's comparable to much more touristed places like the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon. There's lots of wildlife including American bison, bighorn sheep, and bobcats, and during the summer months, the skies are exceptionally clear, perfect for stargazing.
8.Fairbanks, Alaska
Whether you want to experience the midnight sun during summertime or the spectacular Northern Lights, Fairbanks is a bucket list spot. During the winter, there's dog sled riding, snowmobiling, and natural hot springs to soak in. During the summer months, you can pan for gold, fish for salmon and rainbow trout, and visit nearby Denali National Park.
9.Hudson, New York
Situated on the banks of the Hudson River in the Catskills region of the Hudson Valley, the town of Hudson feels a little bit like the Brooklyn of upstate New York. The main street, Warren Street, is lined with cool restaurants, chic home decor and furniture stores, and vintage shops. And of course, Hudson gives you access to all the great outdoors that come with the Catskills Mountains, whether it's skiing Hunter Mountain, hiking Kaaterskill Falls, or apple picking and farm stand-hopping.
10.Jackson, Wyoming
A gateway to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, Jackson is a rare destination that offers style and luxury combined with outdoor adventure and the great outdoors. The town of Jackson Hole is adorable, complete with cute lodges, great cafes, breweries, restaurants, and local watering holes. During the summer months, you can float or raft in the Snake River, and come winter, you can ski Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
11.Washington, DC
Looking for an action-packed city escape? Consider the nation's capital. It's a particularly great place for family travel, thanks to an abundance of kid-friendly activities and museums like the International Spy Museum, National Air and Space Museum, the National Mall, and various monuments. The city is also full of farmer's markets. a great brunch scene, green public spaces like the the National Arboretum, small art galleries, and unique neighborhoods to explore from Takoma Park and Adams Morgan to Georgetown and U Street Corridor.
12.St. Michaels, Maryland
An excellent roadtrip getaway for east coasters, this old oystering and shipbuilding town is now a nautical escape on the Chesapeake Bay, especially during the warmer months. You might feel as if you've stepped back in time as you walk the harbor-front streets. Talbot Street is the only road through town, but there you'll find plenty of places to explore like distilleries, antique galleries, souvenir shops, and some great local restaurants like newly opened Ruse and old time-favorite Carpenter Street Saloon.
13.Big Sur, California
This rugged stretch along California's Route 1, nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, is just as picturesque as you might expect from the scenes of Big Little Lies. The best way to see Big Sur is to roadtrip, making sure to stop in the adorable towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea. As you drive, you'll get to explore Big Sur's most gorgeous vistas like Garrapata State Park, Pfeiffer Beach, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and McWay Falls. For one of the most unique stays around, book a yurt at Treebones Resort.
14.The Finger Lakes, New York
You've heard of Napa Valley and the Willamette, but did you know the Finger Lakes is one of the most up-and-coming wine regions in the country? This group of 11 lakes just south of Lake Ontario was, once upon a time, known for overly sweet Rieslings, but today, there's been a renaissance. It would be hard to explore the whole region, so focus your attention on Keuka and Seneca Lakes, where the best wine is being made.
Of course, there's more to do here than imbibe. The Finger Lakes are home to the funky town of Ithaca, the beautiful village of Interlaken, and a handful of National Parks: Watkins Glen, Letchwork, Buttermilk Falls, and Taughannock.
15.Chicago, Illinois
There are few better places in the US than Chicago for a quick escape. There's something for everyone in this bustling city: art and culture, amazing restaurants, sport, green parks, charming neighborhoods and, during the summertime, even sandy beaches.
For lovers of art and architecture, take an architectural boat tour, visit Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House, or visit the Art Institute of Chicago. And if you're a foodie, there's no denying that Chicago is one of the preeminent culinary destinations in the states. From deep dish pizza and Italian beef to Michelin-starred eateries, this locale has it all.
16.Charlottesville, Virginia
This vibrant college town, home to the University of Virginia, is close to both Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains; plus, it's near lots of wineries, breweries, cider houses, and distilleries galore.
Take advantage of the awesome culinary options in downtown Charlottesville like Lampo, go hiking in Shenandoah National Park, cycle Skyline Drive, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, or trek up the Humpback Rocks Trail for some incredible vistas. Explore the Monticello Wine Trail by booking a wine tour or just picking a few spots to visit, but don't miss Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyards for wine flights paired with almost too-pretty-to-eat cheese boards.
17.Louisville, Kentucky
A city full of surprises, this affordable city straddles both Southern and Midwestern culture. There's something for everyone: There's a rich theater scene, a bustling nightlife, lots of art (the Speed Art Museum is a must-visit), and eclectic neighborhoods from historic old Louisville to walkable NuLu. And of course, we can't talk about Louisville without mentioning the Kentucky Bourbon trail. Take a day trip from the city, visit some distilleries, and gaze at the rolling, green hills along the way.
18.Taos, New Mexico
This artsy and spiritual town is set in the desert at the foot of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. During the autumn months, you could catch the Taos Mountain Balloon Rally, but you'll definitely want to drive the 85-mile Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, which showcases fall's most spectacular colors.
The autumn scenery along the route is nothing short of magical. Stop by the Harwood Museum of Art and then tour the Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for traditional adobe-style buildings. Hike some trails in the Rio Grande del Norte National Monument or Carson National Forest.
19.Asheville, North Carolina
This Blue Ridge Mountain town is known for its thriving arts scene, great restaurants, and craft breweries. Go gallery hopping among the warehouses in the River Arts District, admire the Biltmore Estate, go on a beer crawl, hike in the Pisgah National Forest, Mount Mitchell State Park, or Looking Glass Rock. If the weather holds up, raft or picnic along the banks of the French Broad River, or drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping at some of the many scenic overlooks to take in the ultimate fall vistas.
20.Cape May, New Jersey
There are plenty of great New Jersey beach towns, but none quite like Cape May. It has a totally different vibe than most of its neighboring towns, which is probably why it owns the reputation of "Jewel of the Jersey Shore." It's a lot less crowded, and it's adorably quaint with clean beaches and historic, Victorian-style houses built around the turn of the 20th century.
21.Mount Desert Island, Maine
Hiking, stunning nature, and the fresh lobster are just some of the draws of this island off the coast of Maine. Mount Desert Island contains the seaside town of Bar Harbor with its walkable downtown area, sweet souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and restaurants. And, of course, there's Acadia National Park, one of the most impressive national parks in the country, which is best explored during the late spring, summer, and early fall.
22.Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff is one of Arizona's best-kept secrets. Unlike much of Arizona, Flagstaff actually experiences four distinct seasons. This outdoorsy mountain town is close to the Grand Canyon and Sedona, San Francisco Peaks, and the desert. Make Flagstaff your basecamp for exploring Grand Canyon National Park, or stick closer to home and see Sunset Crater, Walnut Canyon, and Wupatki National Monument (all just 30 minutes from downtown). As you drive along Route 66, you'll pass rows of golden Aspen trees along the snowcapped mountains.
23.Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Lake Tahoe, a glistening alpine lake in the Sierra Nevadas, is worth considering for a getaway any time of year. In the winter, you'll find excellent skiing and snowboarding, and in the summer, there's swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking galore. The three main areas are all havens for nature, but they have different vibes: Go to South Lake Tahoe for restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, North Lake Tahoe for peace and quiet, and Reno-Tahoe for its old western-style towns.
24.Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
One of the cutest small towns in Pennsylvania, this yearlong tourist destination in the Pocono Mountains is the perfect spot for whitewater rafting during summer or a romantic weekend getaway during the winter. It's often referred to as the Switzerland of Pennsylvania, and it's the most beautiful during the fall when the Poconos light up in fiery colors. Don't miss a daily sightseeing tour aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.
25.The Florida Keys
A 125-mile-long chain on the southernmost tip of Florida, the Keys feel like a little slice of paradise. It's got beautiful, sandy beaches and a laid-back island vibe that feels worlds away from Miami. The best way to explore the Keys is to take your time: Spend some time in Key Largo or Islamorada before making your way to Key West. Along the way, you'll find seafood shacks, beachfront tiki bars, nature preserves, snorkeling spots, and crystal blue beaches.
26.Savannah, Georgia
It’s hard to imagine a city with more charm than Savannah, making it an ideal weekend spot for a romantic getaway. Here, you'll find historic bed-and-breakfasts, oak tree-lined streets, and Victorian architecture. Some highlights include Forsyth Park, which is draped in Spanish moss, and the nearby beach towns of Tybee Island and Sea Island. And food-lovers should note that Savannah is one of the best hubs for restaurants in the south.
27.Whitefish, Montana
If you can choose just one vacation destination in Montana, it should be Whitefish, a hotspot for outdoor adventure all year round. During the summer months, Whitefish is the ultimate basecamp for exploring Glacier National Park. Try your hand at fly-fishing or take advantage of the 25 miles of hiking and biking around Whitefish Lake. And come winter, it's one of the country's best ski and snowboarding towns.
28.New Orleans, Louisiana
For a little slice of Europe without leaving the US, consider NOLA. Everything from the cuisine to the architecture here has been influenced by Spanish, French, and Creole culture, which results in something totally unique. The French Quarter is home to Crayola-colored buildings with wrought iron balconies, archways, and lush courtyards. Then there's Jackson Square, which might remind you of Paris's famous Place des Vosges. And, of course, New Orleans boasts a vibrant nightlife, tons of live jazz music, rowdy oyster bars, and treasure-packed antique stores.
29.Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is no hidden gem, but there's a reason why tourists flock to this Colorado mountain resort town. Talk to anyone, and they'll tell you a different time to visit because every season is truly special. Winter is a skier or snowboarder's paradise, and the rest of the year is perfect for hiking the iconic Crater Lake Trail, which offers views of the the Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. And in addition to the great outdoors, downtown Aspen itself is lovely with its high-end shopping, restaurants, and après ski bars
30.Zion National Park, Utah
Utah's most traveled national park, Zion is less than three hours from Las Vegas and offers impressive natural craters, world class hiking and mountain biking, and sandstone cliffs for canyoneering. Zion Canyon boasts endless hiking opportunities along its floor in the 20- to 30-foot-wide area known as the Narrows and the even-more challenging area called the Subway. There are hiking trails for every skill level, but even the most advanced hikers will find a challenge here.
31.Brooklyn, New York
It seems like these days, Manhattanites are flocking to Brooklyn, so why not follow suit on your next vacation? There are so many different neighborhoods to explore, from the waterfront, tree-lined streets of Brooklyn Heights to the young and hip blocks of Greenpoint. And all throughout this borough, the great restaurant options are endless. Plus, when you want to see Manhattan, you can easily hop on the subway or walk across the bridge for the best the city has to offer, whether it's a Broadway show or an afternoon in Central Park.
32.Olympic National Park, Washington
Unlike some of the major national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite, which are usually overwhelmed by tourists, you can still get a sense of serenity when you visit Olympic National Park in Washington State. It's located about two and a half hours from Seattle, and it's home to one of the most unique landscapes in the country. Within the boundaries of the park, you can explore temperate rainforest, craggy Pacific coastline, subalpine meadows blooming with wildflowers, and waterfalls.
33.Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville has always been an obvious destination for music lovers, but this southern city is so much more than a honky-tonk town. With great shopping, an emerging art scene, and chef-driven restaurants worth traveling for, Nashville has it all. Yes, Lower Broadway will always be bustling with its neon lights and live music venues, and you'll probably spot plenty a bachelorette party, but you'll also want to explore the stylish neighborhood of East Broadway, the culinary offerings around the Gulch, and the vintage shops along 12th Ave S.
34.Mackinac Island, Michigan
This vacation town on Lake Huron between Michigan's upper and lower Peninsulas feels frozen in time. You could easily confuse it for a seaside village in the English countryside. There are charming little boutiques, horse-drawn carriages, and Victorian-style homes with sweeping porches. Best of all, though, there are no cars allowed on the island, so biking remains the main mode of transportation. It's a rare and peaceful paradise untouched by honking horns and light pollution.
35.St. Louis, MIssouri
This friendly midwestern city is often compared to a smaller Chicago. It's full of history, culture, and so many free attractions like the St. Louis Art Museum, the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Science Center, and Gateway Arch, which makes it a great place for budget travelers. It also happens to be one of the country's most under-appreciated food cities: Here, you'll find everything from historic steakhouses and barebones barbecue joints to ethnic eateries.
36.Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis and its sister city of St. Paul offer gorgeous lakes, trails, and bike paths for wandering, urban green spaces, great museums, exciting restaurants, and a particularly friendly local population. Get your culture fix by visiting the Minnesota African American Heritage Museum & Gallery and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, then make sure to eat your way through this food-focused city. You'll want to try the local staples like a Juicy Lucy, tater tot hotdish, and cheese curds, but don't overlook the thriving, globally-inspired restaurant scene.
37.Manchester, Vermont
The small but chic town of Manchester is a great East Coast roadtrip destination just about any time of year. It's quintessentially "Vermont," with its white-steepled churches, adorable downtown area, cozy diners, and, of course, stunning foliage come autumn. Whether you're visiting for the hiking in the Green Mountain National Forest, leaf peeping, snowing, or relaxing, Manchester is an idyllic place for it all.
38.Block Island, Rhode Island
Just south of Rhode Island, this stretch of 17 miles of protected beaches is a popular New England destination come summertime, accessible only by ferry or small plane. There are historic lighthouses, nature walks, bike trails, and a bunch of great bars and restaurants. If you go, don't miss the view of the cliffs soaring over the Atlantic from the top of Mohegan Bluffs, and a lazy day spent soaking in the sun at Mansion Beach is a must.
39.Door County, Wisconsin
Set on a skinny peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is as picturesque as it is charming. It's home to small towns with lots of personality like Sturgeon Bay, Egg Harbor, Fish Creek, and Ephraim, state parks dotted with trails, and islands worth exploring. There's Peninsula State Park with its towering bluffs, sandy beaches, and cedar forests, Whitefish Dunes State Park, a hilly area known for hiking and fishing, and then there's Newport State Park, a designated Dark Sky Park, which is the place to go for epic star-gazing.
40.Seattle, Washington
The urban center of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a great destination for lovers of nature, adventure, and the great outdoors, food-focused explorers, or music and culture buffs. There's no denying that Seattle is one of the best food cities in the country (especially when it comes to seafood), and Pike Place Market is the venue where you can sample it all. Art-lovers will enjoy Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Olympic Sculpture Park, and Museum of Pop Culture for starters. Locals will tell you to prioritize a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for its charming shops, waterfront trails and hiking spots, and beautiful beaches.
