Are you looking for where to spend your next family vacation? Or maybe you’re working on your USA bucket list. Well here are 47 bucket list worthy places to travel in the US that deserve to be on your list.
Of course the United States is so vast and so varied it would be near impossible to include every single place that deserves to be on this list. Instead these are noteworthy places from all over that are great places to travel in the US for one reason or another.
If there is anywhere that I did not include that you feel deserves to be on the list, put it in the comments along with why so that others can learn about it.
If nothing else I hope this list inspires you and your travels.
This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. I only recommend products that I love and would purchase myself! Full disclaimer here.
How this USA Bucket List is Structured
There were so many places to cover I organized them by category. It starts with national parks, cities, islands and beaches and finally notable places.
This should help make the list easier to read! You can jump to a section that interests you below:
- National Parks to Visit
- Best Cities to Travel to
- Bucket List Worthy Islands and Beaches
- Notable Places to See in the US
Best National Parks to Visit in the US
In no particular order, here are the best National Parks to visit in the US.
Arches National Park, Utah
Home of over 2,000 natural stone arches, Arches National park is a stunning location for any USA bucket list. Hikes in the area range from easy to difficult but every single one will take you to yet another beautiful sight.
Located in Southern Utah’s dry desert it gets hot in the summer, and snow in the winter and its unique weather has created its unique landmarks.
Nearby are two more of Utah’s five National Parks that are also worth the visit. There is Zion’s National Park that has amazing views and a unique river hike called The Narrows. You can also visit Canyonlands National Park less than an hour away.
In the nearby small local town of Moab you can find lodging, restaurants and tours.
Read More: 2 Days in Arches National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, California
The Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert meet in southern California to form a unique habitat that has a unique variety of plants and animals. That area is Joshua Tree National Park.
The desert is scattered with its iconic joshua trees. Wide open trees with sharp dagger-like leaves. These trees litter the desert ground. Don’t leave without snapping a picture with one.
The elevation makes Joshua Tree a great place for stargazing so grab a blanket, some late night snacks and relax under the night sky after a day of hiking.
Glacier National Park, Montana
You may think that Glacier National park is the best place to see glaciers. Although you can see glaciers like Grinnell Glacier, this actually isn’t the easiest place to see glaciers. It is however an amazing place to see colorful alpine lakes, goats, and wildflowers.
Macdonald Lake is a stunning lake with a lake floor of multicolored stones and pebbles. Cracker Lake is another lake worth visiting with bright blue waters that can be viewed from above.
Yellowstone National Park, ID, MT, WY
Home to many wonders Yellowstone was the world’s first national park and is the perfect family vacation destination in the US. Bring the kids and grandparents to camp in the forest, see Old Faithful Geyser or many of the hot springs.
There is lots of wildlife to see too, stay safe and keep your distance but you can see bears, bison, deer and more while driving and hiking through the park!
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is HUGE and awe-inspiring no matter how old you are. Come visit and hike through a lot or a little of the canyon. If you don’t want to hike take a helicopter tour to see the canyon from above!
For a true US bucket list experience, backpack in the canyon overnight as you hike from the north rim to the south rim of the Grand Canyon. This will require proper gear and that you are in ok physical shape but it is worth it.
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
Drive (or fly) over to Colorado to visit Mesa Verde, home of ancient cliff dwellings that have been excavated. These cliff dwellings are some of the largest and most well preserved in the country!
You can take a guided tour which costs $8-$45 dollars depending on the tour you take. These tours are available from May – October. You can also take a self guided audio tour of Mesa Verde that is provided by the NPS.
Along with the hikes and tours to the cliff dwellings you can also visit other parts of the beautiful park.
Read More: Everything You Need to Know for Visiting Mesa Verda as a Family
Nearby Destination: Things to Do in Buena Vista, Colorado
Devils Tower + Badlands National Park, Wyoming
The Badlands are home to some very unique rock formations and sediment deposits that formed colorful striations in the rocks that are visible today. Not only that but it is home to one of the world’s richest fossil beds where they have found the skeletons of ancient horses, rhinos and saber-toothed cats.
Nearby the Badlands is a unique national monument called Devils Tower. It stands at 867 feet tall from base to summit which is quite noticeable in the surrounding prairie (nps). There are many unique cracks running down its surface that make for a world famous climbing location. You can try your hand at climbing or just take a hike around the base.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
This giant crater lake has bright blue water and is a stunning landscape to explore. It is the deepest lake in the US and one of the most pure on earth (nps).
Take a boat tour around the lake and keep an eye out for ”The Old Man” while you are there. You can also hike one of the beautiful trails in the area or take a scenic drive to take in the lake’s stunning views.
Best Cities to Visit in the US
Of all the best places to travel in the US these cities make the list for their unique qualities or iconic status as part of American culture. Make sure you add the ones that catch your eye to your USA bucket list.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana is one of the oldest cities in the United States and it is a melting pot of cultures from its rich past. Deep in the south you can learn about plantations and slavery that existed here. Plantation tours are a great way to learn more about the history of slavery.
Visit during Mardi Gras for a crazy but fun time as the whole city celebrates with beads and booze.
Or come any other time and escape the crowds as you experience jazz music, beignets, gumbo, above ground cemeteries, ghost stories and more. A food tour is a great way to experience the culinary aspect of New Orleans and a ghost tour at night shows you the city in a whole new light.
Read More: What to Do on Your First Trip to New Orleans
Asheville, North Carolina
Located near Smoky Mountain National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway is a small mountain city: Ashville, North Carolina. Asheville has a huge food scene so there is no shortage of delicious small restaurants to try and support.
You can go hiking through miles of trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway and waterfall chasing to stunning places like Crabtree Falls. This area is dog friendly so you can bring your pup along too!
The fall colors hit later here than up north making Asheville the perfect October travel destination in the US. Hike in the snow in the winter or swim in the lakes, streams and rivers between hikes in the summer.
If you don’t have a pup along you can visit Smoky Mountain National Park which is the most visited national park in the US. Nearby is also the largest mansion in the US: Biltmore Estate which is a great place to explore.
Read More: Fun Hikes off Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, NC, Dog Friendly Places to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina, Lake Watauga Day Trip from Asheville
San Francisco, California
Take a bike ride around San Francisco and across the golden gate bridge for a picturesque view of the city. Don’t forget to stop by Pier 39 afterwards to grab lunch from Sour Dough Co. and a souvenir or two. I never visit the city without also stopping to grab a brownie sundae from Ghiradelli Square.
Other places worth visiting are the Painted Ladies, Lombard Street, Alcatraz, and China Town just to name a few.
New York City, New York
Like San Francisco, New York City is a classic American big city that truly deserves to be on every USA bucket list. There is so much history and innovation in one place.
I would start with a visit to times square although it is a little underwhelming, it has to be done. Then take your pick of places and start visiting as many as you can in the time you have. (I love CityPass to see several locations in one destination for a discount).
I recommend: the Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Museum and Memorial, the Empire State Building, and Black Tap milkshakes to start you off! And don’t forget to see a Broadway show too, you can book tickets in advance to guarantee you see the show of your choice.
Read More: First Timers Guide to New York City, New York
Stowe, Vermont
New England in the fall is a USA bucket list must and Stowe, Vermont is the crown jewel. This small town in the northeastern United States turns vibrant colors of orange, red and yellow that will leave you in awe.
During the winter Stowe is a bustling ski town with world class skiing and when you’re ready to escape the cold just spend some time inside the cozy shops and restaurants.
Bring a car or RV and spend some time driving around more of New England if you can. There is a lot to see in a small area. You can hike through the leaves or enjoy some beautiful lakes and small towns.
Las Vegas, Nevada
What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. So let’s have some fun. There are so many amazing hotels along The Strip to stay in with close access to lots of things to do.
Start off with a quick trip to the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign and give yourself time to walk along the Strip and take it all in. Take a peek inside several of the hotel lobby’s because they usually have amazing exhibits to look at.
Get outside the city and visit the 7 Magic Mountains exhibit in the desert and the Neon Museum. You could even take a day trip to Utah and visit Zion’s National Park if you have the time.
Seattle, Washington
There is never a better time to visit Seattle, or Washington in general, than in the summer. The rain stops, the temperatures are comfortable and everything is green. I love it so much. Take the chance to see the coast with its pebble beaches.
While you’re in the city visit the Space Needle, Pike Place Market (the gum wall is nearby if you’re interested), and explore Discovery Park.
San Antonio, Texas
Down in the great state of Texas you would be wrong to skip visiting San Antonio, Texas. Their beautiful River Walk, or Paseo del Rio, is the first place to visit. Along the 15-mile walkway you’ll find restaurants, shopping and sightseeing to keep you busy.
The Alamo is the historic gem of the area and a real treat to visit. “Remember the Alamo” and the lives lost for freedom as brave men fought here to protect their homes. The church is free to see but you do need to reserve a timed entry ticket in advance.
Washington DC
The nation’s capital is a beautiful place to travel to in the US. There are important government buildings you can visit that hold hundreds of years of history in their walls. There are so many museums to explore that cover all different topics and are worth a visit. One of the best parts is that things are all fairly close together!
Visiting in the Spring is a real treat because you can see the cherry blossoms in bloom around the Tidal Basin. During the summer it gets very hot so make sure you bring extra water along. Otherwise you really cannot go wrong visiting anytime of year.
Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida makes the list of places to travel in the US because of it’s amusement parks. There is no shortage of fun to be had in this sunny central Florida city. Take your pick on the parks that interest you the most.
Visit Disney World with its 4 parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Experience the Disney magic, visit with fun characters from your favorite movies and eat delicious meals and snacks.
Stop by Universal Studios to ride thrilling rides and bask in the magic of Hogwarts and the Wizarding world of Harry Potter.
Plus so much more at parks like SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Legoland!
Read More: What to Bring into Universal Studios Orlando
Charleston, North Carolina
This city in the South oozes southern charm and classic beauty. Charleston has an amazing food scene with so many well rated restaurants and chefs. Make sure you snag a reservation ahead of time because restaurants do fill up!
Take a plantation tour to learn more about the history of the area, see beautiful gardens, homes and even wildlife.
In town you can stop by the market, see the colorful houses of rainbow row and visit the famous pineapple fountain. If you have time for a day trip, head over to the coast for a beach day at Folly Beach.
Read More: 3 Day Charleston, South Carolina Itinerary
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Close to the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Parks, Jackson Hole is a great place to use as home base during your travels. Although there is so much to do here besides the parks too.
Full of adventure no matter the season you can go kayaking, mountain biking, horseback riding and more during the summer. In the winter there is plenty of skiing, snowmobiling, or even winter paragliding for you to try.
Chicago, Illinois
The windy city of Chicago, Illinois is a beautiful place to travel in the US. After you’ve seen “The Bean” you can head into a high rise and take in the views from the observation deck or visit Museum Campus to see the area’s best museums. Don’t Forget to eat some yummy deep dish pizza while you’re there!
If you are looking for an extra special time to visit, I recommend going for St. Patrick’s Day. The river gets dyed green, there are parades and bar crawls, and the atmosphere is like no other! You can even take a river cruise on the green river if you’d like.
Sedona, Arizona
Come be surrounded by stunning red rock formations when you visit Sedona, Arizona. Take a sunset hike to Cathedral Rock and watch as the sun’s golden rays set over the stunning surroundings.
See a natural bridge you can walk on by hiking Devil’s Bridge Hike. Next take the trek to the Subway Cave to get a great view of the valley below. There are so many other trails and wonders to explore as well. You will not run out of places to visit!
Boston, Massachusetts
If you love history there is almost no better place to travel in the US than Boston, MA. The Freedom Trail takes you through the buildings and sites that walk you through the American Revolution.
This wonderful town full of old brick buildings tells a story and it is worth listening too.
Read More: Three Day Boston Itinerary: A Perfect Weekend in Boston
Aspen, Colorado
A stunning mountain retreat is the perfect winter getaway. Grab your skis or your snowboards and hit the slopes. In between runs shop in town and explore the downtown area.
San Diego, California
Come visit San Diego to see the world renown zoo full of amazing animals from all over the world. You can also stop by Balboa Park for history and shopping.
The beaches offer surfing, sandcastles and sun. There is no better way to end the day than with a fun beach bonfire!
Savannah, Georgia
Visit the famous Forsyth Fountain in this beautiful southern town of Northern Georgia. There is history for the history buffs, delicious food for the foodies and good shopping for the shoppers out there.
Plus the beautiful surroundings are good for every soul.
Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine is Maine’s largest city and yet it really isn’t that large! This historic town got its start as a fishing community and today it still has strong ties to the sea with a large working waterfront. Explore the downtown to see centuries old buildings and support small businesses run by hard working americans.
Los Angeles, California
The City of Angels is the home of many many celebrities and of course Hollywood. Visit the Hollywood sign but then head down to where the real magic is made at Universal Studios. Don’t forget to see the stars on the Hollywood walk of fame.
If you head out of town a little ways you can stop by Disneyland and California Adventures for a day or two of amusement park fun.
Newport, Rhode Island
Visit up north to see some of the many gilded age mansions that litter Newport, RI. The Vanderbilts had a summer cottage in Newport called “The Breakers” that is no cottage but actually a HUGE mansion that is larger than any home most people could imagine owning.
Or visit Rosecliff, another of the many mansions here, which offers opulence, beautiful rooms as well as a stunning view of the coast from the front lawn. These mansions speak to an age of wealth in America and are a fun place to explore and learn.
Kansas City, Missouri
Come try the best barbeque in the US in Kansas City, Missouri. There are a plethora of options to choose from but each one offers something slightly unique with their sauce covered, mouthwatering bbq.
You can’t go wrong with the ribs from Kansas City Joe’s, the fire kissed wings from Jack Stacks or the brisket from Q39!
While you’re here for the food make sure you check out the free Nelson-Atkins Art Museum and see what new exhibits there are at Union Station. If you have kids, the Crayola Center is a great place to stop and explore.
Read More: What to Do in Kansas City, Missouri: A Locals Guide
Livingston, Montana
Visit the last frontier in the old west in Livingston, Montana. People that love the outdoors can go fishing, hiking and horseback riding here in Montana
Nashville, Tennessee
Home of country music, this city is alive with music. You can see a live show at the Grand Ole Opry and visit the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Sightsee around town to find murals galore and eat some good food.
Read More: Nashville Itinerary for the Perfect Three Day Weekend
Best Islands and Beaches to Visit in the US
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is not one of the 50 United States but it is a US territory and it definitely deserves to be on this list! It is an affordable travel destination with so much to see and do.
In San Juan you can see old forts, bright colorful buildings and enjoy the friendly company of locals as you sail the ocean.
Nearby San Juan you can explore a beautiful rainforest full of waterfalls and lush green fauna. It is the only tropical rainforest in the US and the hikes offer views of the island you can’t get anywhere else.
The beaches are made up of golden sand with bright blue waves you can surf from morning till night. At night you can see the bioluminescent water when you take a kayak tour.
Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, Everything You Need for an Epic Vacation in Puerto Rico
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
When looking for a bucket list worthy places to travel in the US make sure you consider Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Hydrangeas, sea food, and a quant lovely beach with a quant lovely beach town.
Anna Maria Island, Florida
Visit some of the best beaches in the US when you travel to Anna Maria Island in Florida. With miles upon miles of pristine white sand beaches and clear emerald water it is no wonder that beaches in the area have been voted the #1 beach in America multiple times.
Anna Maria Island is a small island with lots of old Florida charm with colorful beach houses and many people getting around on golf carts. No highrises or chains are allowed on the island which helps preserve its small town feel.
You can visit Sarasota only 30 minutes away with fun things to do like the Ringling Museum, the Aquarium or more beaches. Or you can drive north and sight see in Tampa. There is a great food scene, major sports teams, museums and more in Tampa.
Read More: Fun Things to Do on a Day Trip to Anna Maria Island, Florida, Super Fun One Day Sarasota, FL Itinerary
Cannon Beach, Oregon
You have probably seen Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach before in pictures but it is not the same as visiting it in person. Haystack Rock takes over the horizon and makes a statement.
Oregon beaches aren’t tropical with nice sand and full of sunshine and palm trees, but they are beautiful in their own way with the pebble beaches and evergreen trees on the coast. Have a fun day exploring the tidepools and eating tillamook ice cream.
Kauai, Hawaii
Pristine beautiful beaches, waterfalls, mountain hikes, ocean wildlife, and good food all in one place sounds impossible to find but here it is. All of Hawaii is worth visiting but the island of Kauai has stolen my heart.
The dream is to rent a white jeep and drive around exploring all the corners of the island, hiking trails as I come upon them and chasing waterfalls (like Wailua Falls) and rainbows around the island.
When you’re tired, head to the beach to relax and eat. This is another stunning location to view from the air if you take an air tour!
The Florida Keys
From Key West to Key Largo the Florida Keys is one of the best places to travel in the US in the winter. It is warm all year round with beautiful beaches and tropical vibes.
In Key West you can see bright colorful houses, kayak through mangrove tunnels and eat delicious key lime pie. Other keys like Key Largo are better for their beaches and resorts where you can have your dream beach vacation.
Read More: One Day Key West, FL Itinerary
Hilton Head, South Carolina
The beaches of Hilton Head Island may be gorgeous but the best part? The turtles!
Between May and October sea turtles build nests and lay eggs in the sand. The community and volunteer organizations work together to help this endangered species from their nests to the oceans.
During your next visit do your part, follow the rules and don’t disturb these beautiful animals but enjoy watching them in their natural habitat.
Notable Places to Travel in the US
Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska
Visit Fairbanks, Alaska and try your luck at seeing the northern lights without leaving the US. Fairbanks is the best place in the US to see the northern lights. It is far to the north and experiences the right conditions to see the lights in the winter. So head out of town to get rid of light pollution and see what you can see.
While you are in Alaska there is so much to do and see. Find some glacier caves to explore, visit Denali National Park or so much more.
Lake Tahoe, California & Nevada
Lake Tahoe makes the bucket list of places to travel in the US for its crystal clear blue water and surrounding land. The water is cold but crystal clear, refreshing and beautiful. You can go boating, kayaking or paddle boarding on the water all great options depending on your preference.
If you don’t want to be on the water, maybe it’s too cold for you, then take to the mountains and hike. Many of the hikes offer stunning views of the lake and fresh air as you climb through the rocky terrain.
Niagara Falls, New York
These large and impressive falls are a sight to see to be sure. Did you know over 3,160 tons of water flows over Niagara Falls every second. And you can see it with your own eyes from a variety of locations.
Take a tour on a boat from below and feel the mist from this powerful waterfall, hike around the sides or eat in a restaurant above.
Havasu Falls, Arizona
Obtaining a permit to visit Havasu Falls is worth the trouble when you see the stark contrast of the blue water against the red stone surrounding the falls. It does take a 10 mile hike each way to get to the falls so this is a multi-day trip at the very minimum.
The falls are located in the Grand Canyon on Havasupai Tribal Lands. Make sure you get your reservation online when they open up slots at the beginning of the year.
Big Sur, California
This section of the California coastline is made up of beaches, cliffs and one stunning bridge.
Come and enjoy all that the area has to offer or come and do nothing which is a favorite pastime. The beauty is enough to enjoy.
Turnip Rock, Michigan
Seeing rocks and formations that seem to defy the laws of gravity and they are fascinating. Turnip Rock is located on Lake Huron and you can rent a kayak to paddle around the rock and other surrounding formations.
Bluebonnet Trail, Texas
Flowers are one of the most beautiful things on earth and traveling to see them is always worth it. There are parts of Texas where bluebonnet flowers grow in the thousands upon thousands. Seeing the blue flowers spread across the fields is a beautiful sight.
Read More: What You Need to Know to Visit Ennis Bluebonnet Trail near Dallas, TX
Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona
Last but not least is hiking through the slot canyons of Antelope Canyon. The orange/red stone with the light shining down from miles above and surrounded by the high cliff walls. There is nothing like it that will remind you of all the beauty that exists in the world.
You have to join a guided tour in order to go through the canyon. This allows the land to stay protected and you get to learn about the area from a knowledgable guide.
Bucket List Worthy Places to Travel in the US
There are so many amazing, wonderful and beautiful places to travel in the US and this is by no means all of them. This is a small sampling of locations spread all over the country and each one has a unique reason to be visited. Happy travels!
Read More:
- Best Spring Vacations in the US for Families (Coming Soon)
- 21 Best Summer Vacations in the US for Families
- Best Fall Vacations in the US for Families (Coming Soon)
- 19 Best Winter Vacations in the US for Families
