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 huge Texas is till you drive by it. Rattling that state is huge!). I feel, simply on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the nation. That’s a variety of time and doesn’t even bear in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. In brief, I’ve seen a variety of this nation.

And there’s a lot price seeing.

Up to now, I’ve talked about my favorite restaurants and lessons learned, so it solely appears correct to provide you a listing of the most effective locations to go to within the USA.

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

In no explicit order, right here’s my detailed checklist of the most effective locations to go to within the USA:

(Be aware: This checklist is predicated solely on the place I actually have been. There are much more breathtaking locations I haven’t explored but, which is why they is probably not on this checklist. 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 disillusioned once I needed to depart. 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 also be a non-profit that donates 100% of its revenue to social justice causes across the metropolis.
 

2. Austin

I really 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 vigorous honky-tonks and dwell music, funky home bars on Rainey Road, superb mountaineering and biking trails, and tons of out of doors 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 effectively — each time I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas gives a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal perspective attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. In brief, you’ll be able to’t skip Austin, as a result of when 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 outdated firehall from 1885. They’ve quick Wi-Fi, loads of chill widespread 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 arduous 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 whilst you’re right here) and is full of delicious French-inspired Creole and Cajun meals, dwell jazz music, road performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived effectively right here within the Huge Straightforward. You don’t come right here to loosen up — you come right here to indulge! In my view, New Orleans probably the most 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 little 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: stuffed with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I preferred the realm so much, together with its proximity to some fantastic and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has a variety 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. (In the event you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, when 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 probably the most 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 big redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the best way. Be ready to make sluggish progress, as you’ll be pulling over ceaselessly to cease, hike, and admire the view. I particularly preferred Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Mendocino, California.
 

6. Redwood Nationwide Park

Alongside the Pacific Coast is Redwood Nationwide Park, a big expanse of big 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 completely 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 – Situated 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

Although 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 shocked by the realm: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a fantastic, nonetheless lake wherein to admire these mountains and enormous glaciers; and mountaineering trails galore. It was probably the most mind-blowing place I noticed on my journey, and I can perceive why everybody raves about it. I can’t advocate 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 below the celebs. You gained’t be disillusioned.
 

8. Denver

Denver has a mixture of outside ruggedness and big-city dwelling. 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 numerous connections, and proximity to the mountains. It’s clear, and the locals are extremely pleasant. There are few cities within the US I need to dwell in, however I really like Denver sufficient to say that it’s one among them.

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated the most effective within the nation, providing a swank inside, free jacuzzi, outside 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 assume there’s a greater metropolis in the USA. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (attempt 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, glad vibe emanating by town. Reap the benefits of 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 widespread 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

Town that by no means sleeps. ‘Nuff stated. I imply, there’s a motive I moved right here — after which moved again once more after dwelling in Texas. You may’t go improper right here. New York sells itself and there’s nothing I can say right here. I do know you already need to go.

WHERE TO STAY IN NYC: HI NYC – This is without doubt one of the largest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to satisfy folks right here, they’ve a chill outside patio, and the kitchen is large so you’ll be able to 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 shocked by this Mississippi metropolis. I didn’t know something about it, however Natchez was beneficial as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century houses, constructed by remoted plantation homeowners eager to get away in the summertime and work together and socialize with one another. As cotton grew to become king, the homes grew to become ever bigger and extra elaborate.

Now, they’re historic monuments, and you’ll tour them whereas having fun with a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the crushed 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 contains 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 Common Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–coated bushes, giant and welcoming parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a superb place to expertise the sluggish tempo of the Previous 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 obtainable 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 measurement, incredible depth, pink hues, and hanging vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true measurement 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 evening, 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 below 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

Just a little bit nation, somewhat bit tech, Nashville is without doubt one of the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s bought 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 variety 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 glad 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 generally very one-sided) element in regards to the state’s historical past, but it surely’s extra thrilling than you may assume.

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 out of doors 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 fantastic nationwide parks, like Muir Woods, the place you’ll be able to escape town and go mountaineering amid big bushes (there are lots of half-day guided tours you can take). San Francisco has a lot to try this you want not less than 4 days to actually admire 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 widespread room so it’s straightforward to satisfy folks and has a really enjoyable, social ambiance.

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

 

16. Miami

White sand seashores, Cuban meals, wild nightlife, beautiful folks, and superb heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t assume I might ever dwell 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 seashore. It’s huge (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

Perpetually heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely glad inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from mountaineering, days on the seashore, or operating. And they’re at all times glad 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 really like San Diego.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Adventure Hostel – With a concentrate on sustainable journey (there’s a vegetable backyard and yard chickens), this chill hostel may 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 options, you can read this post.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Although the water stage of the lake, in addition to the natural world round it, is unfortunately depleted as a result of California drought, Lake Tahoe continues to be nonetheless spectacular and delightful. 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 below the celebs. You gained’t be disillusioned.
 

20. Wherever in Montana

Lots has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, but it surely’s all improper. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s probably 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 decide a favourite state, it might be Montana. I simply like it.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Situated in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is dwelling to pleasant employees. They set up 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 really like about it. It’s second solely to NYC in variety of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide support organizations and embassies). You hear 1,000,000 accents on this city! Throw within the free Smithsonian museums, numerous 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, loosen up, eat, and drink! Be sure you take a tour of Capitol Hill whilst you’re right here!

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON: Highroad Hostel – Providing pod-style bunks, this cool hostel is positioned in an outdated 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 glad 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 variety of summers on the Cape because it’s the place New Englanders escape for the summer time. You’ll discover loads of small seashore cities alongside the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being probably the most well-known however I additionally love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). In the event you’re on the lookout for 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 seashore in West Yarmouth, this three-star property has all the usual facilities (TV, free Wi-Fi), in addition to free parking and a soothing sauna and scorching tub.
 

23. Boston

I could also be biased as a result of I grew up right here, however I really 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 the most effective 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 several other chill widespread areas the place you’ll be able to 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 lodges 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 live shows 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 resolve to dwell right here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin City Hostel – Only a quick stroll from the (in)well-known Fremont Road, it is a social hostel that hosts every kind of occasions (akin to 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 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 formidable 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 the most effective hostels on the earth, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an out of doors courtyard with a firepit, common dwell music, and way more.

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

26. Seattle

House to somewhat enterprise known as Starbucks, it additionally boasts an thrilling downtown, contemporary fish, genuine Asian meals, artwork museums, and funky nightlife. In historic Pioneer Sq., you’ll be able to 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 – Situated proper throughout from the long-lasting Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes every kind of actions so it’s straightforward to satisfy folks. In addition they supply free breakfast and each 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 in the course of the Previous 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’ll be able to expertise a style of the outdated 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. Situated 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 liked this metropolis, which options a few of the world’s greatest BBQ and a vigorous 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 motive to return 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 shocked at how a lot I preferred 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’ll be able to drink.

Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels way more like an Austin or a Portland than your conventional southern/midwest metropolis. Up 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 could be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is reasonably priced, contains free breakfast and free parking, and has free Wi-Fi. It’s a no-frills selection however clear and cozy.
 

30. Charleston

Charleston is one other vigorous metropolis stuffed with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, numerous 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. (In the event you love seafood, you’re going to like it right here. This is without doubt one of the greatest cities within the nation for seafood.)

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

31. Franklin

Situated simply exterior of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town allure. Town is filled with historical past (there was a significant Civil Struggle battle right here), a historic most important road, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t count on a lot and town actually shocked me. It’s the right 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. In the event you don’t need to splash out, verify Booking.com for different choices.

***

The United States is full of too many “must-sees” locations to go to to checklist 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 most effective of the USA is at all times away from the key highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky retailers, and pleasant folks!

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