The US is a beautiful and vast country. It has the most beautiful national parks, bustling cities, action-packed state parks, and more cultural attractions than you could see in a lifetime. So choosing the best places to visit in the USA is no small task but with a little help from our team and from our many visits to our friends to the south, we’ve compiled our picks for the best of America
Places to Visit in the USA
There’s a lot to narrow down, so we’ve created a complete guide to the best places to visit in the USA. Sit back and browse; let’s find the best places for you.
Best Cities to Visit in the USA
Sure, there is something romantic about small beach towns in America. Just don’t miss out on the country’s incredible major cities. These cities are some of the best places to visit in the US. Iconic, exciting, and entertaining, these destinations all warrant a place on your US itinerary.
1. New York
Where to start? New York is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. The city’s attractions are practically immortalized, and the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Central Park are all household names. New York has plenty of cultural activities too, with art galleries and attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Natural History Museum. Plus the food scene? Don’t get us started.
New York is the largest city in the US. It is best for visitors who love action-packed itineraries and fast-paced holidays. Known as the ‘city that never sleeps, New York is perfect for those who want to take entertainment and sightseeing seriously no matter what time of day. You can check out our five-day New York itinerary, our guide on where to stay in New York, and where to find the best skyline views.
2. San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the most easily recognized cityscapes in the US. From the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge to its iconic cable cars, San Francisco is one of the best places to visit in the US. If you do nothing else, visit Hawk Hill for a perfect picture of the Golden Gate Bridge, and a cable car ride is one of the most famous things to do in the city.
San Francisco is the fourth biggest city in the US and sits in the north of California. The city is full of culture and history, also home to Alcatraz Island. This notorious prison once held Al Capone. San Francisco makes a great city break for anyone wanting a taste of iconic destinations in the US. However, San Francisco is especially well-suited to those who enjoy cities with lots of historical backstories.
Read more about San Francisco
3. Washington DC
Washington DC is the US capital and the heart of American politics. It is also one of our favorite places to visit in the USA. It really surprised us. We expected this government town to be boring centering but there is more to Washington than the State Capitol Building at the White House.
With a fantastic food scene, plenty of bars, and nightlife this city will keep you occupied day and night. It’s really the grandeur of the city that impressed us. See more about the Lincoln Memorial and other historic landmarks at 12 Must-See Washington DC Monuments and Memorials in Photos
The Washington Monument stands proud over iconic places such as the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, and the National Mall. And the museums are out of this world. Go museum hopping through the Smithsonian to see the Museum of Natural History, African American History and Culture, National Air and Space Museum and more!
4. New Orleans
New Orleans is another fast-paced addition to our list. New Orleans is known for creole food, live music, and nightlife – an incredible mix, in our opinion. If you want a flamboyant, outgoing city to visit in the US, you’ll have lots of fun in New Orleans.
Bourbon Street, the French Quarter, and Garden District are the city’s most famous areas. In short, Bourbon Street is where to party, the French Quarter is where to take pictures, and the Garden District is where to get a morning coffee. New Orleans is full of incredible, diverse districts, so allow yourself time to see them all.
If you are visiting the US in February or March, New Orleans is an even better choice as it hosts one of the world’s best Mardi Gras. The city’s partying is on par with Las Vegas, just more authentic and cultural than indulgent. New Orleans has lots to do and experience.
Read more about New Orleans
5. Miami
Miami is best known for its beaches and cityscape. Everywhere you look along the coast is photogenic. Miami is a place made famous by postcards, travel photographers, and social media influencers.
You can walk the beach boardwalk, check out the Wynwood Walls street art, and enjoy the downtown nightlife and hospitality venues. Even just relaxing along Miami’s coastline is a heavenly way to pass your time. There are so many things to do that you could spend weeks in Miami.
The Miami coastline is easy to recognize. The skyscrapers stretch right up to the sand – luxurious, sunkissed, and perfect for a break in the sun. Miami gets 3,200 hours of sun a year, just in case you needed any more persuading.
6. Las Vegas
Las Vegas is one of the best cities in the US to let your hair down. Many describe Las Vegas as running on a hyper-reality, and the flashy, neon-filled city in the middle of the desert certainly runs at a hundred miles per hour.
Las Vegas is primarily a partying destination. Along The Strip, you’ll find more casinos than hot dinners and some of the rowdiest, indulgent nightclubs in the states. The city gets its Sin City nickname from how it turns a blind eye to behaviors and activities deemed immoral elsewhere. If you want to party, Las Vegas is the place.
You can also read about things to do off The Strip in Las Vegas here.
7. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a gem on the West Coast. It has Hollywood, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. Los Angeles is where the rich and famous flock and where the movie stars are best remembered – with some earning a spot on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Visiting Los Angeles, you have to see all the major Hollywood attractions. There is plenty to see and do, from the Hollywood sign to Universal Studios Hollywood. Los Angeles has hiking trails, theme parks, and museums galore. When you want downtime, you can head straight to the beach for a swim, surf, or sunbathe.
Los Angeles is a popular road trip stopover for those completing road trips in the US. Located in southern California, the city has excellent weather.
Read more about Los Angeles
8. Chicago
Chicago is one of the northernmost destinations and is the third largest city in the US. Once known for 1920s gangsters and prohibition drinking, Chicago is now associated with cuisine, bold architecture, and lakeside living.
Chicago (also known as the windy city) sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, the second largest of North America’s famous Five Lakes. It has a colorful and varied history – full of mischief, yet is now a safe tourist destination in the US. On a sunny day, Millennium Park is a stunning spot to relax. While on a rainy day, there are plenty of indoor things to do like visiting the Art Institute of Chicago.
If you want a city full of life and where the past clearly still influences the character of the present, Chicago is a fun choice.
9. Austin
Nashville may be known as Music City, but Austin is the live music capital of the world and the beloved state capital of Texas. Texas is home to country music, but Austin is also known for its blues and rock. Fans of these genres will especially love visiting Austin, and you should check for concerts in advance.
Austin is famous for concerts and green space. Zilker Metropolitan Park is arguably the best green space in Austin. The 351-acre park has multiple sections, including a botanical garden and a spring-fed pool for swimming. However, Austin is also surrounded by lakes like Lady Bird Lake. Austin’s lakes are prime fishing, boating, and swimming spots – great for those who want a laidback US city experience.
Austin is an excellent option if you want to experience the south and city culture outside of major destinations like New York and Vegas. It’s still fantastic for tourists, but the city focuses more on residential quality of life than attracting visitors. Austin is a little different, which we like.
10. San Diego
San Diego is another west coast hotspot. The Californian city is blessed with 70 miles of beaches and is an excellent alternative to visiting Los Angeles. Located just above the Mexican border it has a warm climate all year round. Livable, warm, and full of tourist attractions, San Diego, is one of the best places to visit in the USA.
The CBD is set around its harbor, and the city has a long naval history. You can discover more about the city’s naval heritage at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Alternatively, enjoy the sunshine at Balboa Park or Coronado Beach. The city has lots of green spaces and coastal areas to relax. You’ll have fun choosing where to stay in San Diego, as there are so many interesting neighborhoods.
San Diego has been a favored getaway for years, attracting historical figures like the Kennedys and Marilyn Munroe. If you want to experience California outside of Los Angeles, the city is a warm, fun, but laid-back choice. Click here for more inspiration..
11. Philidelphia
No visit to the United States would be complete without seeing the birthplace of American democracy. The city’s history shines as Philadelphia is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and the U.S. Constitution was debated and signed in 1787 at Independence Hall.
Other important sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Franklin Court, which is dedicated to the life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin. It has a vibrant culture and art scene with delicious cuisines including its famous cheesesteaks and plenty of museums, art galleries, theaters, and even hiking and biking trails. Read more: 28 Best Things to do in Philadelphia
12. Nashville
Nashville, Tennessee is widely regarded as the “Music City” and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in country music. The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of the most popular attractions in Nashville celebrating the history and impact of the genre. Arti
Besides the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville is also home to many other music-related attractions, including the Ryman Auditorium, the original home of the Grand Ole Opry, and the Patsy Cline Museum. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and music venues offering live performances every night of the week.
Aside from its music scene, Nashville is also a great destination for foodies, with a thriving culinary scene that features everything from traditional Southern cuisine to innovative fusion dishes. The city is also surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including parks, lakes, and rolling hills, making it a great place for outdoor activities and adventure. Read more: Where to Stay in Nashville – Best Areas
13. Seattle
Seattle, Washington is a great destination for travelers looking to experience a mix of urban and natural attractions. Seattle is the largest city in the Pacific Northwest. This city combines outdoor attractions with its urban vibe seamlessly. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, including the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and the Pacific Ocean.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and boating. The Olympic Sculpture Park is a public park that features a unique collection of contemporary sculptures set against a stunning backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It is a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air while taking in some of the city’s most beautiful views.
Seattle is also known for its thriving technology industry and diverse cultural scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as enjoy its famous cuisine and shopping at Pike Place Market – one of the oldest continuously operated farmers’ markets in the United States, and craft beer scene. Read more: Where to stay in Seattle – Best Neighborhoods
Best National Parks To Visit In The USA
It’s no secret that the US has some of the world’s top national parks. Whether you like hiking trails, mountain biking, or stunning natural attractions – we’ll find a match for you. These are some of the best national parks to visit in the US. Let’s dive straight in.
14. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is the icon among US national parks as the first national park in the world. It is famous for its geothermal and volcanic activity and when we visited it this year became one of our favorite places to visit in the USA. Yellowstone is full of wildlife, geysers, hot springs, and a supervolcano. Its dormant but powerful volcano last erupted 70,000 years ago.
Yellowstone is often described as a geothermal playground, and it’s the best place to experience geothermal activity in the US. In our opinion, the world. We’ve been to a lot of geothermal areas on earth and this places blew our minds.
Yellowstone is one of the best places to visit in the USA to experience the power of nature. You can watch the geysers explode, the most famous of which is Old Faithful. You can also hike to Yellowstone’s hot springs, including Grand Prismatic Spring which is popular because of its eye-catching colors. While in Yellowstone, hop over to another one of the best places to visit in the USA, Grand Teton National Park. You can actually see the Grand Teton mountain range from Yellowstone.
Read more about Yellowstone
15. Grand Canyon National Park
Visiting Grand Canyon National Park is a dream for most, and it is easily one of the best places to visit in the US. This natural wonder is the most famous canyon in the world. Created by the Colorado River carving through the Grand Canyon over millions of years.
The Grand Canyon is known for its stunning views however, there are also plenty of amazing things to do in and around the Grand Canyon. You can take one of the many hiking trails, visit its viewpoints, go whitewater rafting down the Colorado River, or take a scenic helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon.
Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is just a four-hour drive away from Las Vegas it’s not too far from Phoenix. The Grand Canyon is a worthy overnight stop-off point if you are taking a road trip. In fact, the Grand Canyon is a great stop on the iconic route 66 road trip.
The Grand Canyon is also brilliant for scenic swimming spots. Upper Navajo Falls is the best spot, and you can swim in the plunge pool, heading through to the cave behind the falls if you dare.
Read more about Grand Canyon
16. Zion National Park
If Yellowstone is known for its geothermal attractions, Zion National Park is known for its sandstone cliffs and rock formations. Zion is one of the best places to visit in the US for a desert experience and has incredible hiking trails with eye-catching natural attractions. The Great Arch, Kanarra Falls, and Angels Landing ridge are all fantastic spots to visit.
Zion NP also has some impressive canyons. The Narrows is the most famous section of Zion Canyon, and its hiking trail leads you through the bottom – which is just 20 to 30 feet wide. Pack water shoes and shorts as in some parts, you’ll be wading through the Virginia River.
Read more about Zion National Park
17. Glacier National Park
Fancy a contrast from desert landscapes? Then you must visit Glacier National Park. It is a stunning alpine area in Montana with over 1 million acres of hiking trails, wildlife ranges, mountain biking paths, and mountains to climb.
Glacier NP is the twin peace park to Canada’s Banff National Park. It is the best place to visit for crystal clear alpine lakes framed by dramatic mountain ranges. The park has 25 glaciers to hike to and explore. And, if you are fortunate, you can even spot the Northern Lights.
You can spot lots of wildlife in the park – from mountain goats to wolves and grizzly bears. If you love nature and wild animals, it makes a great destination in Montana.
18. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park might be best known for its waterfalls but the nearly 750,000-acre park has lots more things to do and see under its belt. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite’s valleys create perfect viewpoints, such as Glacier Point, Tunnel View, and Taft Point.
Yosemite National Park is also brilliant for skiing – so head to a spot like Badger Pass if you want to learn or show off your skills. One of the best things to do in Yosemite is to hike the Half Dome. The Half Dome hike is definitely one for the bucket list and is one of the most iconic hikes in the USA. Read all about it here:
Yosemite Falls are the postcard image of the park. The waterfall drops from granite cliffs, with lower and upper trails that you can walk up for a better view. Mist Trail, Nevada Fall, and Vernal Falls are other popular waterfalls to visit in the park.
Read more about Yosemite National Park
19. Arches National Park
Arches National Park is heaven if you love natural beauty and geology, featuring over 2,000 natural stone arches. The park is a famous red color, with red sandstone giving the whole park an otherworldly, picturesque glow – especially at sunrise and sunset. Arches is one of the best places to visit in the USA if you want somewhere with a wow factor.
The best places to visit in Arches are Landscape Arch, Double O Arch, Lower Delicate Arch, and Balanced Rock. The park has more places to see than outdoor activities, so it’s best for those who want a natural sightseeing experience. You can view our guide on the best hikes in Arches National Park for more inspiration.
20. Rocky Mountain National Park
Who doesn’t love the Rocky Mountains? Whether you want to go hiking, horseback riding, or camping, Rocky Mountain National Park is a dreamy destination. The limestone and shale cliff faces and mountains make a glorious backdrop to enjoy the great outdoors.
Rocky Mountain National Park stretches over 3,000 miles, covering states in both the US and Canada. In the US, the Rocky Mountains spread through Idaho, Montana, Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming. This is an advantage for those who want to combine visiting the Rocky Mountains with other destinations in the US, as you can pick the state that works best for you.
If you want more challenging hikes, this park is a great option. There are over sixty mountain peaks for you to tackle, so the real question is, how long have you got? To experience a ranch stay, the Rocky Mountains are also fantastic, and the area is renowned for horseback riding.
21. Mount Rainier National Park
Fancy the glacial landscape of Glacier National Park, but just want to base yourself in a different state to Montana? Mount Rainier NNP is one of the best places to visit in the US and is conveniently located in Washington State. You can still admire snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and glaciers – just within a two-hour drive from Seattle.
The park is a 263,000-acre area situated around Mount Rainier, a dormant supervolcano and Washington’s highest peak. Experienced climbers can tackle the mountain on guided climbs. However, there are plenty of entry-level hikes in the national park for those who lack the experience to tackle Mount Rainier. Trail of the Shadows, Rampart Ridge Trail, and Twin Firs Loop Trail are all popular hikes.
Mount Rainier National Park is the perfect place for climbers and hikers in the pacific northwest. If you want to experience an alpine, glacial landscape but stay in a major city, it is the best option for you.
22. Olympic National Park
If temperature rainforests and moss-covered trails sound intriguing, Olympic National Park is your match made in heaven. The national park is full of thick forests and fairytale-like trails. You’ll also find driftwood beaches and glacial lakes perfect for swimming, watersports, and fishing.
The park is easily reached from Seattle by car or ferry. You could grab breakfast at Pike Place Market and then be in Olympic National Park before lunch. Just plan an itinerary and what you’d like to see first, as the park is nearly 1 million acres in size.
There are plenty of things to do in the park, including multiple trails through the Hoh Rainforest. Olympic is a beautiful introduction to the Pacific Northwest coast and Washington State. If you’ve never experienced rainforests, we recommend choosing this park as a US destination.
Read more about Olympic National Par
23. Death Valley National Park
As the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the US, Death Valley National Park sure collects titles. The park stretches into Nevada and California, just west of Las Vegas. It is primarily a desert landscape, although it has several colorful mountain ranges and ridges.
If 1 million acres sounded big, try 3.4 million acres for size. Death Valley is worthy of a multi-day trip. However, you can see lots of the park in a single day since its main attractions are relatively close. The best places to visit in Death Valley are Badwater Basin salt flats, Titus Canyon, Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, and Ubehebe Crater.
Death Valley National Park is a great day trip from Las Vegas. You can reach the park in around two hours from Las Vegas. Those staying in Los Angeles can also visit Death Valley, although it’s a little longer. Allow three to four hours to drive to Death Valley from Los Angeles. Read more 21 Best Things to do in Death Valley National Park
24. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua tree national park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This unique desert landscape covers more than 1200 square miles. The park is made up of a unique and diverse ecosystem that feels almost out of this world as two different ecosystems come together.
This is a desert oasis full of ancient Joshua trees and unique rock formations. Drive through the cholla cactus garden as you take photos of the breathtaking landscape. Admire the famous skull rock as you take in the beautiful scenery. If you’re lucky you might even spot some wild animals. Coyotes, hawks, eagles, hummingbirds, big-horn sheep, and gray foxes are quite common at the park.
Lots of hiking and hiking trails are available for all ages. Plan to spend a whole day there to take in all that the park has to offer. Or better yet, set up camp and enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars. Bring a good pair of closed footwear, a hat, lots of sunscreen and water. Read more: 11 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park
25. Denali National Park
Denali National Park is one of the biggest in the US. While it narrowly missed out on being included in our top 40 best places, there is no way that we couldn’t have this park in our runners-up.
At 6 million acres, it’s safe to say that Denali National Park can keep you entertained for a while. The park is located in Alaska, way up in North America. The national park surrounds Mount McKinley, the tallest mountain in North America, and features beautiful glacial and forest landscapes. Denali National Park is an excellent US destination if you want somewhere to head off the beaten track.
Denali National Park is famed for its wildlife, with grizzlies, black bears, wolves, caribou, and moose to spot. You can try to spot wildlife by driving through the national park yourself or opt for a backcountry safari. If you are lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights at night.
For more inspiration on visiting Alaska, here are our guides on the best things to do in Alaska and most spectacular places to visit in Alaska.
26. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains are a wonderful place to connect with nature and challenge yourself to outdoor activities. The park covers over 500,000 acres. You can camp, hike, fish, and climb for a day or two weeks – the Great Smoky Mountains are a versatile US destination to visit.
The best things to do in the mountains are to hike up Clingmans Dome (the highest peak), visit Sky Center, hike to Laurel Falls, and test your bravery at Smoky Mountains Ziplines. The mountain town of Gatlinburg is considered the gateway to the national park. It is a great spot to retreat to for the luxuries of civilization.
The mountain range runs along the Tennessee and North Carolina border. For those road tripping the states, consider stopping off to enjoy the mountains. Otherwise, you can always take a day trip from Knoxville, Atlanta, or Charlotte.
27. Acadia National Park
You can spend your days hiking and snapping photographs. We also recommend visiting Poipu Beach, which we mentioned earlier as one of the best beaches in the US. And, if you want to glimpse the cliffs along Na Pali Coast, head to the hiking trails around Koke’s State Park. Kauai is stunning. Just remember to leave no trace and keep your holiday as ethical and sustainable as possible.
Acadia National Park just missed out on our top ten best national parks to visit in the US. However, the 47,000-acre park definitely deserves an honorary mention. It is home to wildlife like moose and bears, a rugged coastline, and Atlantic flora. Acadia is a beautiful US destination if you want to experience natural beauty on the Northeast Atlantic coast.
The national park is split between Mount Desert Island and mainland Maine. There’s plenty to do, from adventurous cliff walks like Beehive Trail to boat tours to spot puffins.
Best Beaches to Visit in the US
It goes without saying that the US isn’t all deserts and mountains. The country is revered for its beautiful beaches – with golden sands, marine life, and super surfing.
We’ve already covered the best beaches in the USA here, but this section will narrow it down to the top ten. These ten beaches are some of the best places to visit in the USA.
28. Miami Beach, FL
