Best Places to Visit in the USA
From
coastlines to big cities, the United States is made up of so many
diverse destinations that it's hard to decide which places deserve the
distinction of the best in America. That's why U.S. News considered a
variety of factors, such as attractions, accommodations and dining
options, as well as votes from thousands of travelers, to determine
which vacation spots can be considered the best in the U.S. Use this
list for your vacation planning, and cast your vote below to have a say
in next year's list. And if you're looking for lodging
#1 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
To
experience some of the most inspiring views America has to offer, plan a
trip to Grand Canyon National Park. The Colorado River weaves its way
through the 277-mile-long canyon, making it a top destination for
whitewater rafting. The Arizona park is also a superb spot to hike,
offering scenic paths like the Bright Angel and North Kaibab trails.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your time in the Grand Canyon,
you're sure to feel small against its towering rock formations and
expansive vistas.
#2 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
A
vacation at Yosemite National Park in California is all about
reconnecting with nature. Spend your visit checking out famous landmarks
like Half Dome and Glacier Point or hiking Cathedral Lakes, the Mist
Trail and other popular paths. You'll also want to save time for
admiring Yosemite's numerous waterfalls, including the towering Yosemite
Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. If you're
not one for camping, opt for a daytrip from San Francisco, Sacramento or
Lake Tahoe.
#3 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
America's
first national park provides plenty of attractions to excite nature
lovers, from steaming geysers to bubbling hot springs to hiking trails
that stretch more than 900 miles. Plus, animal fans will appreciate a
visit to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to learn about local
wildlife. If you'd rather look for wild critters inside the park, spend a
few hours driving through the Hayden and Lamar valleys. Both areas are
considered popular havens for Yellowstone National Park's resident
bison, wolves and grizzly bears.
#4 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
With
idyllic beaches and verdant parks, Maui offers ample opportunities to
relax. Here, you can spend your days admiring the scenery as you cruise
along the Road to Hana, fly above the island in a helicopter or lounge
across the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park. If you'd rather cool
off than sunbathe, sign up for a snorkeling tour. Sampling Maui's
seafood is also a must, but don't overlook other island delicacies like haupia, a creamy coconut custard.
Glacier National Park
#5 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Glaciers
are the main draw of this national park, but its more than 700 lakes,
two mountain ranges and multiple waterfalls are equally impressive.
Hiking is the park's most popular pastime, though the area is also a
prime spot for canoeing and fishing in the summer and cross-country
skiing and snowshoeing during the winter. Plus, wild animals like moose,
bears and elk are frequently spotted here.
New York City
#6 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Known
for its diverse cultural scene, the Big Apple boasts so many things to
do that it puts most of its U.S. peers to shame. Whether you choose to
spend the day perusing the Metropolitan Museum of Art's exhibits,
catching a show on Broadway or trying the city's famous New York-style
pizza, chances are you'll never find yourself feeling bored here. When
you need some respite from the city's busy street life and soaring
skyscrapers, retreat to scenic Central Park or the artsy High Line.
San Francisco
#7 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
San
Francisco's culture has been affected by diverse ethnic groups and many
social movements. The best way to get a glimpse of the City by the
Bay's character is to explore its neighborhoods on foot or by cable car.
From the Mission to the Castro, visitors will find various boutiques
and eateries serving authentic regional cuisine like Mexican, Italian or
Chinese. Just be sure to come prepared with a sturdy pair of walking
shoes and some sunscreen.
Washington, D.C.
#8 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
The
nation's capital has a lot going for it. Iconic landmarks like the
Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument allow you to sightsee for
days. Plus, the city's plethora of Smithsonian museums gives you plenty
to do on rainy or hot days. When the weather cooperates, explore some of
the District of Columbia's green spaces, such as the U.S. National
Arboretum or Rock Creek Park. No visit would be complete without
checking out the city's lively restaurant and bar scene.
Honolulu - Oahu
#9 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Oahu
features a nice balance of urban and beach environments. And with
pleasant weather year-round, there really is no wrong time to visit.
Waikiki Beach promises to please, but be forewarned: There's a good
chance a barrage of tourists will greet you. For more elbow room, head
to Kailua's Lanikai Beach. Before leaving, carve out some time for
visiting Honolulu naval sights like the World War II Valor in the
Pacific National Monument and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.
Telluride
#10 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
This
small mountain town in Colorado draws visitors year-round. During the
winter, powder hounds can barrel down the surrounding Rocky Mountains
before enjoying Telluride's superb après-ski scene. Meanwhile, the
summer months offer numerous opportunities for taking in gorgeous vistas
from hiking trails and scenic thoroughfares. Once you've worked up an
appetite, sit down for upscale or rustic mountain fare at one of
Telluride's 60-plus restaurants.
Jackson Hole
#11 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Jackson
Hole's isolated location in western Wyoming draws outdoorsy types in
droves. Bordered by Grand Teton National Park and national forests,
Jackson Hole boasts an assortment of ski slopes and hiking trails, as
well as areas for fly-fishing, mountain biking, paragliding and more.
For a more leisurely activity during the warmer months, head to Teton
Village to ride the seasonal aerial tram.
Lake Tahoe
#12 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Known
for its stunning clear water, North America's largest alpine lake
beckons to active travelers year-round. Winter draws skiers and
snowboarders in droves to the slopes at Lake Tahoe's numerous resorts,
while the warmer months are ideal for hiking, scenic drives and lake
activities like kayaking and boating. For an active vacation with a
twist, trek one of the California and Nevada region's two beer trails or
sign up for an outdoor aerial fitness class.
Juneau
#13 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
The
capital of Alaska serves as an excellent base for travelers hoping to
explore the state's rugged wilderness. The Mendenhall Glacier, the Tracy
Arm Fjord and the Tongass National Forest dazzle with their natural
beauty. Plus, Juneau offers exciting excursions like whale watching,
helicopter and dog-sledding tours. When you need to rest your feet after
a busy day outdoors, hop on the Mount Roberts Tramway or visit the
Alaskan Brewing Company's bottling facility for a tasting – if you're 21
or older.
Grand Teton National Park
#14 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
In
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming's snow-topped Teton Mountains rub
elbows with the Snake River, Jackson and Jenny lakes, wildflower fields,
swamps and more. Climbing Grand Teton and trekking trails like Taggart
Lake are two common ways to take in the park's natural beauty, but if
you're looking to exert less energy, explore the region by car or boat.
Don't focus too much on the horizon, though, as moose, elk, bears and
bison all call the park home and occasionally wander near visitors.
Zion National Park
#15 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Awe-inspiring
panoramas are available everywhere you turn in Zion National Park. This
protected area in Utah features massive freestanding arches that appeal
to hikers, bikers and climbers. Zion National Park is also a prime spot
to try canyoneering, which combines rappelling with swimming and
hiking. Those who prefer hiking will have 18 trails to choose from,
including traveler favorites like the easy Pa'rus Trail and the Narrows,
a challenging trek through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon.
Kauai
#16 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Nicknamed
the Garden Island, Kauai relies on its immense natural beauty to stand
out from other Hawaiian Islands. To drive this point home, Kauai limits
the size of all of its buildings to no taller than a coconut palm so
locals and travelers can enjoy excellent views from the island's
pristine beaches. Visitors will also discover lush areas like Koke'e
State Park and Wailua River State Park when they venture inland. Kauai's
distance from the mainland and abundance of high-end hotels make it a
pricey destination to visit, so book your flights and accommodations
well in advance.
San Diego
#17 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
San
Diego appeals to many different kinds of vacationers. While the beach
is the marquee attraction, the city also boasts a variety of activities,
ranging from hiking in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve to surfing
and inline skating at Mission and Pacific beaches. Foodies won't want to
miss the city's central Gaslamp Quarter, which features a variety of
bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood, authentic Mexican cuisine,
craft beer and more. Other must-dos include wandering around the
sprawling San Diego Zoo and the museum-filled Balboa Park.
Aspen
#18 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
This
luxe Colorado mountain town offers world-renowned ski slopes, high-end
boutiques, trendy restaurants and a see-and-be-seen atmosphere. Though
skiing is the primary activity of choice for most visitors, travelers
can also choose to spend their vacation hiking the beautiful twin peaks
of the Maroon Bells or driving or biking the 20-mile Independence Pass.
Before leaving, hop on Aspen's gondola to enjoy panoramic mountain
vistas.
New Orleans
#19 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Few
American cities are home to cultures as unique as the Big Easy's.
Offering a blend of influences from the Caribbean, Europe and other
locales, New Orleans has a distinct personality. Music lovers flock here
to immerse themselves in the city's rich jazz, blues and rock 'n' roll
scenes. Meanwhile, foodies can feast on everything from gumbo to
beignets to po'boys in between sightseeing. After filling up on tasty
fare, check out Bourbon Street's nightlife or sign up for an evening
ghost tour.
Boston
#20 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
There
are three main reasons why people plan a trip to Boston: to learn more
about U.S. history, catch a baseball game and tour some of the country's
best universities. The 2-mile-long Freedom Trail, which connects Boston
Common to the Bunker Hill Monument, offers a terrific overview of the
city's rich history, while Fenway Park is a must-see attraction for
baseball fans. What's more, Boston is home to top-notch universities
known for their charming architecture, picturesque green spaces and
wicked smart students.
Chicago
#21 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
The
Windy City's architecture, cuisine and museums make this Midwestern
locale an excellent option for travelers with varying interests. Be sure
to stuff your face at least once, whether it be with a Chicago-style
hot dog (sans ketchup), an Italian beef sandwich or a slice of deep-dish
pizza. Then, snap some pictures in front of Millennium Park's iconic
"Bean" sculpture, check out the Art Institute of Chicago's top-notch
collections or go on an architecture river cruise. If you plan on
visiting during the winter, head to Maggie Daley Park to go ice skating.
Seattle
#22 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Seattle
may be known for its consistently soggy weather, but this Pacific
Northwest city has plenty to offer travel buffs. First things first,
grab a coffee. (Seattle is the undisputed epicenter of this popular
beverage.) After getting your caffeine fix, enjoy the city's laid-back
aura. Spend your stay mingling with locals at Pike Place Market or on
Mount Si's slopes. Or, get a dose of Seattle's art scene while perusing
the exhibits at the Seattle Art Museum and the Olympic Sculpture Park.
Sedona
#23 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Outdoorsy
types will love vacationing in Sedona. Home to towering red rock
formations, ancient cliff dwellings and vortexes, this Arizona city
features a multitude of postcard-worthy landmarks accessible by various
hiking trails. Many of Sedona's trails also permit mountain biking,
while the area's red rocks attract climbing enthusiasts. After an active
day outside, travelers can retreat to one of the city's award-winning
spas or wellness centers, where they can tap into Sedona's spiritual
side during a treatment, yoga session or healing ritual.
Miami
#24 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Travel
to this South Florida city to experience a melting pot of cultures. The
vibrant food and nightlife scenes are worth the trip alone, so grab a frita
(a Cuban-style hamburger) in Little Havana before dancing the night
away in one of the city's countless clubs. If you're not a fan of
clubbing, don't fret: Miami offers a variety of museums filled with
exhibits about the city's unique art, history and culture, plus
proximity to the famous sands of Miami Beach.
Outer Banks
#25 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
North
Carolina's Outer Banks region features 200 miles of barrier islands.
History enthusiasts will appreciate snorkeling and scuba diving the
roughly 3,000 shipwrecks offshore, as well as wandering around the site
of the Wright brothers' famous first flight. Meanwhile, beach bums can
lounge on the Outer Banks' beaches and admire the lighthouses that tower
above them. When it's time to eat, head to one of numerous seafood
restaurants to savor local specialties like Hatteras-style clam chowder
and raw oysters.
Las Vegas
#26 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Sin
City astounds travelers with its smorgasbord of offerings. Whether you
choose to spend your trip testing your luck at its casinos, enjoying its
highly regarded buffets or relaxing at its extravagant spas and by its
chic pools, Las Vegas offers something for everyone. Though the bulk of
Las Vegas' can't-miss activities and attractions are available on the
Strip, travelers hoping to avoid the area's thick tourist crowds can
venture outside the city to go hiking or sightsee via helicopter.
Charleston, SC
#27 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Beautiful
architecture, relaxing beaches and plenty of Southern charm are the
defining elements of Charleston, South Carolina. Start your day in the
Battery, where you can catch an incredible sunrise over the city's
harbor. Then, check out the city's historical sites and museums,
including the Civil War-era Fort Sumter and the Aiken-Rhett House
Museum. Once you've worked up an appetite following a busy day of
sightseeing and exploring the city's picturesque streets, savor some of
Charleston's mouthwatering low country cuisine at a local restaurant.
Must-try dishes range from fried catfish to shrimp and grits.
Key West
#28 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
Home
to the southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West offers
everything one would expect of an island in the Florida Keys. Popular
activities include lounging on pristine beaches and deep-sea fishing, as
well as snorkeling, kayaking and sailing. Key West offers more than
just a pretty coastline, though. Travelers interested in history will
find no shortage of interesting parks, homes and cemeteries here. Plus,
Key West's lively Duval Street features an eclectic collection of
people, restaurants and bars.
Adirondacks
#29 in Best Places to Visit in the USA
New
Englanders flock to this New York mountain region to enjoy nature while
participating in all kinds of activities. During the warmer months, the
area's more than 6 million acres attract travelers keen on hiking,
biking, birding, rock climbing, golfing and hunting, among other outdoor
pursuits. Meanwhile, the colder months are when the Adirondack
Mountains turn into a winter wonderland, with superb paths for skiing,
snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
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