31 Best Places to Visit in the USA (Updated 2025)

From sea to shining sea, the United States is a really various nation – each in terms of tradition and pure magnificence.

I’ve traveled throughout the continental United States many occasions over (you by no means actually notice how massive Texas is till you drive by means of it. Rattling that state is massive!). I feel, simply on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the nation. That’s a number of time and doesn’t even keep in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. In brief, I’ve seen a number of this nation.

And there’s a lot price seeing.

Prior to now, I’ve talked about my favorite restaurants and lessons learned, so it solely appears correct to offer you an inventory of one of the best locations to go to within the USA.

All these locations are close to and expensive to my coronary heart and actually showcase simply how particular this nation is and what number of great locations there are right here. (It took me awhile to slender down this record!)

In no explicit order, right here’s my detailed record of one of the best locations to go to within the USA:

(Be aware: This record is predicated solely on the place I personally have been. There are much more breathtaking locations I haven’t explored but, which is why they is probably not on this record. It doesn’t imply they aren’t price seeing. It simply means I haven’t been there.)

1. Memphis

Gritty, industrial, and a bit run down, Memphis seems like its greatest days are behind it, however don’t let the tough exterior idiot you — town continues to be dwelling to some killer meals and a vibrant blues music scene. Moreover, there’s Graceland (Elvis’s dwelling) for followers of the King, an enormous waterfront for strolling, and the exceptional, detailed, and transferring Museum of Civil Rights (it’s big, so don’t rush it!). I loved town greater than I anticipated and was disenchanted after I needed to go away. To make use of a cliché, it’s a hidden gem!

WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS: Hostel Memphis – A hip hostel in a century-old constructing with a fully-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The hostel can be a non-profit that donates 100% of its revenue to social justice causes across the metropolis.
 

2. Austin

I like Austin (I truly moved there in 2016 and stayed for a number of years earlier than returning to NYC). The nice and cozy climate, the energetic honky-tonks and reside music, funky home bars on Rainey Avenue, wonderful mountaineering and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.

Because of every part from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Complete Meals retailer with the unimaginable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat properly — each time I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas supplies a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal angle attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. In brief, you may’t skip Austin, as a result of should you do, I’ll discover you and drag you there.

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN: Firehouse Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is positioned in an previous firehall from 1885. They’ve quick Wi-Fi, loads of chill frequent areas, and a tremendous on-site bar that serves top-notch craft cocktails.

For extra journey tips about Austin, take a look at these posts:

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some laborious occasions, but it surely lives on with a zest for all times unmatched by most locations. It has a wealthy and lengthy historical past (don’t miss taking a haunted walking tour when you’re right here) and is full of delicious French-inspired Creole and Cajun meals, reside jazz music, road performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived properly right here within the Large Simple. You don’t come right here to chill out — you come right here to indulge! In my view, New Orleans one of the eclectic and vibrant cities in the USA.

WHERE TO STAY IN NOLA: HI New Orleans – An award-winning hostel with spacious dorms, comfortable beds, privateness curtains, and quick Wi-Fi. Every thing a finances traveler wants!

For extra journey tips about touring New Orleans, take a look at my suggested itinerary on how to spend your time there!
 

4. Asheville

Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: filled with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I appreciated the world so much, together with its proximity to some great and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has a number of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and make sure you take a look at the Asheville Botanical Gardens close to the college campus. The gorgeous Smoky Mountains are a brief drive away, and the large Biltmore property, the biggest privately owned dwelling within the US and as soon as dwelling to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of town. (When you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, should you haven’t, it’s best to! The present is addicting!)

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE: Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel – A laid-back hostel with a spacious back and front porch for stress-free. There’s free parking, free Wi-Fi, and loads of close by eating places and cafes.
 

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

The drive up the Pacific Coast is taken into account one of the scenic on the earth. I’ve to agree. I didn’t journey the entire coast however the portion I drove (San Francisco to Portland) was unimaginable: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of seashores, and large redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the best way. Be ready to make gradual progress, as you’ll be pulling over continuously to cease, hike, and admire the view. I particularly appreciated Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Mendocino, California.
 

6. Redwood Nationwide Park

Alongside the Pacific Coast is Redwood Nationwide Park, a big expanse of large redwood bushes full of picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of mountaineering trails. Trails vary from straightforward to strenuous, and there are lots of loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s totally lovely, awe-inspiring, and humbling in each manner. It’s a must for anyone road-tripping around California.

WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK: View Crest Lodge – Positioned on the coast in Trinidad, this rustic budget-friendly lodge has fundamental facilities like free Wi-Fi and TV, and a few of their rooms even have full kitchens. It’s a clear, comfortable no-frills place to crash for an evening.
 

7. Glacier Nationwide Park

Despite the fact that I visited when a lot of the park was nonetheless closed (it was too early within the yr and there was nonetheless snow round), I used to be nonetheless surprised by the world: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a good looking, nonetheless lake during which to admire these mountains and enormous glaciers; and mountaineering trails galore. It was essentially the most mind-blowing place I noticed on my journey, and I can perceive why everybody raves about it. I can’t suggest a go to there sufficient.

WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Camping – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for just a few nights beneath the celebs. You gained’t be disenchanted.
 

8. Denver

Denver has a mixture of out of doors ruggedness and big-city residing. It has an enormous craft beer scene (make sure you take a beer tasting tour), wonderful eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, one among my favourite sushi eating places on the earth), a big worldwide airport with a lot of connections, and proximity to the mountains. It’s clear, and the locals are extremely pleasant. There are few cities within the US I wish to reside in, however I like Denver sufficient to say that it’s one among them.

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated among the best within the nation, providing a swank inside, free jacuzzi, out of doors firepit, comfortable beds with blackout curtains, low-cost in a single day parking, and extra.
 

9. Chicago

When the climate is good, I don’t suppose there’s a greater metropolis in the USA. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (strive the deep dish, sushi, and scorching canine), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (make sure you take an structure tour).

And, as soon as the winter deep freeze is over, Chicagoans burst out of their houses to benefit from the summer time climate, so there’s a constructive, comfortable vibe emanating by means of town. Benefit from it.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: HI Chicago – A spacious, clear hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and an ideal location. The beds are comfortable and the frequent space is large so it’s straightforward to satisfy folks.

For extra journey tips about Chicago, take a look at these posts:

10. New York Metropolis

The town that by no means sleeps. ‘Nuff mentioned. I imply, there’s a purpose I moved right here — after which moved again once more after residing in Texas. You’ll be able to’t go incorrect right here. New York sells itself and there’s nothing I can say right here. I do know you already wish to go.

WHERE TO STAY IN NYC: HI NYC – This is without doubt one of the greatest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to satisfy folks right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is large so you may prepare dinner extra meals and save your finances.

For journey tips about New York Metropolis, take a look at these posts:

11. Natchez

I used to be most stunned by this Mississippi metropolis. I didn’t know something about it, however Natchez was really helpful as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century houses, constructed by remoted plantation house owners eager to get away in the summertime and work together and socialize with one another. As cotton turned king, the homes turned ever bigger and extra elaborate.

Now, they’re historic monuments, and you may tour them whereas having fun with a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the overwhelmed path — and my favourite discovery from my final street journey.

WHERE TO STAY IN NATCHEZ: The Beaumont House – If you wish to splash out, this recently-renovated B&B in a mansion consists of free breakfast and spacious historic rooms in addition to trendy facilities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.

For extra journey tips about Natchez, check out this post on my visit there.
 

12. Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil Struggle, allegedly as a result of Normal Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–coated bushes, giant and alluring parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a superb place to expertise the gradual tempo of the Outdated South. I had visited this metropolis many, a few years in the past, however its magnificence, Southern consolation meals, and tranquility caught with me through the years.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: Thunderbird Inn – This reasonably priced three-star motel is only a quick five-minute stroll from downtown. Boasting a retro vibe, there’s free espresso and juice each morning, in addition to free popcorn accessible within the foyer.
 

13. The Grand Canyon

Phrases can’t precisely describe how incredible the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer dimension, incredible depth, crimson hues, and hanging vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true dimension and sweetness are greatest appreciated with a hike right down to the underside. Make the time to hike right down to the Colorado River, hike the much less visited trails, spend the night time, and hike again up for sundown.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON: Camp – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for just a few nights beneath the celebs. You’ll want to order a spot early although as they disappear quick!

For extra journey tips about the Grand Canyon, learn this post on hiking the canyon.
 

14. Nashville

Somewhat bit nation, just a little bit tech, Nashville is without doubt one of the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s received a beautiful music scene (including the famous Grand Ole Opry), a rising cocktail bar scene, and a few down-home Southern eating places.

There’s not a number of “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis one among my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and comfortable folks, and the constructive power town appears to exude. Once you’re right here, plan to spend just a few hours on the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into nice (although typically very one-sided) element concerning the state’s historical past, but it surely’s extra thrilling than you would possibly suppose.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Red Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally positioned, this is without doubt one of the metropolis’s few reasonably priced two-star choices. A fast 13-minute drive from the Grand Ole Opry, this budget-friendly joint boasts an outside pool, free Wi-Fi, and free espresso.

For extra journey tips about Nashville, take a look at these posts:

15. San Francisco

Meals of each nature, hipsters, excessive tech, and a various inhabitants make San Francisco one among my favourite locations to go to. Moreover, it’s near some great nationwide parks, like Muir Woods, the place you may escape town and go mountaineering amid large bushes (there are lots of half-day guided tours you can take). San Francisco has a lot to try this you want no less than 4 days to essentially respect it.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO: Green Tortoise – As one of many oldest on the town, this hostel is an establishment in San Francisco. It provides free breakfast, free dinners a number of occasions per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous frequent room so it’s straightforward to satisfy folks and has a really enjoyable, social environment.

For extra journey tips about San Francisco, learn these posts:

16. Miami

White sand seashores, Cuban meals, wild nightlife, beautiful folks, and wonderful heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t suppose I might ever reside right here, however for a weekend of enjoyable within the solar, Miami is ideal.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI: Generator Miami – This hostel has a pool, two eating places, a bar, and is simply minutes away from the seaside. It’s large (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra snug than a budget ones you’ll discover on the get together hostels.

For extra journey tips about Miami, learn these posts:

17. San Diego

Without end heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely comfortable inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from mountaineering, days on the seaside, or operating. And they’re at all times comfortable to point out folks their metropolis.

The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seaside — is filled with stylish seafood eating places, bustling bars, and a few severely life-changing taco stalls. I like San Diego.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Adventure Hostel – With a deal with sustainable journey (there’s a vegetable backyard and yard chickens), this chill hostel could be very pleasant and social. It’s clear, and the water stress within the showers is first rate, and the beds are comfortable. (For extra hostel strategies, you can read this post.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Although the water degree of the lake, in addition to the wildlife round it, is unfortunately depleted because of the California drought, Lake Tahoe continues to be nonetheless spectacular and exquisite. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, it is a terrific place for mountaineering and boating in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Camping – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for just a few nights beneath the celebs. You gained’t be disenchanted.
 

20. Wherever in Montana

Quite a bit has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, but it surely’s all incorrect. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s essentially the most loopy lovely state I’ve ever been to, full of wondrous mountains and hills so far as the attention can see. The individuals are tremendous cool, welcoming, and outdoorsy, too. If I needed to choose a favourite state, it might be Montana. I simply find it irresistible.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Positioned in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is dwelling to pleasant employees. They manage every kind of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s straightforward to hang around and meet folks.
 

21. Washington D.C.

The capital of the USA is a vibrant, worldwide metropolis, and that’s what I like about it. It’s second solely to NYC in range of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide assist organizations and embassies). You hear 1,000,000 accents on this city! Throw within the free Smithsonian museums, a lot of parks, a riverfront for strolling or operating, and a few historic authorities buildings and monuments, and D.C. turns into one phenomenal place to go to, chill out, eat, and drink! Be sure you take a tour of Capitol Hill when you’re right here!

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON: Highroad Hostel – Providing pod-style bunks, this cool hostel is positioned in an previous Victorian mansion. The beds have thick mattresses, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, there’s free espresso and tea every day, they usually even host a free comfortable hour every week!

For extra journey tips about Washington D.C., listed here are another articles I’ve written:

22. Cape Cod

I spent a number of summers on the Cape because it’s the place New Englanders escape for the summer time. You’ll discover loads of small seaside cities alongside the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being essentially the most well-known however I additionally love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). When you’re in search of seafood, seashores, boardwalks, and that good household trip, go to the Cape!

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD: Cape Sands Inn – Only a quick stroll from the seaside in West Yarmouth, this three-star property has all the usual facilities (TV, free Wi-Fi), in addition to free parking and a calming sauna and scorching tub.
 

23. Boston

I could also be biased as a result of I grew up right here, however I like Boston and cherish my visits dwelling. Boston rocks (Go Crimson Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, straightforward to get round, and full of superior and dependable folks. It’s dwelling to a ton of actions, just like the Freedom Path and Faneuil Corridor, the JFK Museum, and the Boston Commons and Public Backyard, in addition to a few of the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. Be sure you eat at Zaftigs for one of the best brunch within the metropolis! It’s depraved!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON: HI Boston – This spacious and clear hostel is only a quick stroll from just about every part within the metropolis. They’ve female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and a number of other chill frequent areas the place you may meet different vacationers.

For extra journey tips about Boston, take a look at these posts:

24. Las Vegas

Vegas, child, Vegas! Lots of people are turned off by the bright lights and gambling, however Vegas is much more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and resorts on the well-known Strip. There’s unimaginable mountaineering close by at Crimson Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and plenty of concert events and reveals.

Get off the Strip, discover the actual Vegas (as a result of technically the Strip is positioned in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why folks determine to reside right here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin City Hostel – Only a quick stroll from the (in)well-known Fremont Avenue, it is a social hostel that hosts every kind of occasions (resembling bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s an ideal place to attach with different vacationers.

For extra journey tips about Las Vegas, these articles may also help:

25. Portland

Portland, Oregon is unimaginable. I’d transfer there if it had a much bigger airport with higher connections. Right here you’ll discover a powerful meals truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s a faith to residents, stress-free parks (together with a peaceable Japanese backyard), a vibrant artwork scene, and mountaineering within the close by mountains. There’s even an underground donut scene right here.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND: HI Portland – Northwest – Rated among the best hostels on the earth, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common reside music, and far more.

For extra journey tips about Portland, learn this post on the city.
 

26. Seattle

Dwelling to just a little enterprise referred to as Starbucks, it additionally boasts an thrilling downtown, recent fish, genuine Asian meals, artwork museums, and funky nightlife. In historic Pioneer Sq., you may go on an underground tour of town’s ruins (a hella cool expertise). Furthermore, you’re proper on the water and, climate allowing, can head out onto Elliott Bay to discover some little islands. Seattle is only a cool metropolis. There’s at all times one thing to do there, it’s techy, and everyone seems to be relaxed. Plus, there’s craft beer and occasional — what’s to not love about that!

WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE: Green Tortoise – Positioned proper throughout from the enduring Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes every kind of actions so it’s straightforward to satisfy folks. In addition they provide free breakfast and day by day occasions. It’s one among my favourite hostels within the nation.

For extra journey tips about Seattle, learn this detailed planning guide!
 

27. Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known throughout the Outdated West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main target of an HBO collection. Type of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a really cool place the place you may expertise a style of the previous frontier days. It’s additionally conveniently positioned close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.

WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Country Inn – This kitschy resort is without doubt one of the least expensive locations on the town. Positioned proper downtown, they’ve a mini playing corridor on-site, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. It’s nothing fancy but it surely gained’t break the financial institution both.
 

28. Kansas Metropolis

I actually beloved this metropolis, which options a few of the world’s greatest BBQ and a energetic downtown. There’s additionally an in depth and enlightening jazz museum right here, in addition to the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that was the precise title; I’m not being racist). I want I might have spent extra time, however that’s simply extra purpose to come back again.

WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – With a health heart, pool, and an honest breakfast unfold, this three-star resort in downtown KC is without doubt one of the extra reasonably priced locations to crash within the metropolis.
 

29. Louisville

Louisville sits on the Ohio River and is the biggest metropolis in Kentucky. I used to be stunned at how a lot I appreciated it and the way a lot there was to do right here. There’s a longtime theatre scene, a handful of museums and galleries, tons of scrumptious locations to eat (it’s a stable foodie metropolis), and all of the bourbon you may drink.

Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels far more like an Austin or a Portland than your conventional southern/midwest metropolis. Prior to now, it was thought of a fly-over metropolis and was skipped by most individuals. It’s positively not now.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – Whereas it might be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is reasonably priced, consists of free breakfast and free parking, and has free Wi-Fi. It’s a no-frills selection however clear and comfortable.
 

30. Charleston

Charleston is one other energetic metropolis filled with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a lot of historical past, and all of the southern allure you’d ever want. It’s lovely, the individuals are good, and there’s a excessive, excessive focus of world-class eating places for such a small metropolis. (When you love seafood, you’re going to find it irresistible right here. This is without doubt one of the greatest cities within the nation for seafood.)

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON: Charlestons NotSo Hostel – Positioned in a historic neighborhood, this laid-back hostel consists of free espresso/tea and oatmeal and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are small however the beds are completely comfortable.
 

31. Franklin

Positioned simply exterior of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town allure. The town is filled with historical past (there was a serious Civil Struggle battle right here), a historic predominant road, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t count on a lot and town actually stunned me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Hotel – This upscale property includes a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. When you don’t wish to splash out, examine Booking.com for different choices.

The United States is full of too many “must-sees” locations to go to to record in a single weblog put up. In spite of everything, the nation is dwelling to over 329 million folks and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.

Simply make sure you flip off the highways, head to the small cities, and uncover some favorites of your individual. The perfect of the USA is at all times away from the most important highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky outlets, and pleasant folks!

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