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 relation to tradition and pure magnificence.

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

And there’s a lot price seeing.

Previously, I’ve talked about my favorite restaurants and lessons learned, so it solely appears correct to provide you a listing 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 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 one of the best locations to go to within the USA:

(Word: This checklist 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 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 — the town remains to be house to some killer meals and a vibrant blues music scene. Moreover, there’s Graceland (Elvis’s house) for followers of the King, a giant waterfront for strolling, and the exceptional, detailed, and transferring Museum of Civil Rights (it’s large, so don’t rush it!). I loved the town greater than I anticipated and was disenchanted once 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 also be a non-profit that donates 100% of its revenue to social justice causes across the metropolis.
 

2. Austin

I like Austin (I really 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 Avenue, superb mountaineering and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.

Due to every little thing from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Complete Meals retailer with the unimaginable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat nicely — every time I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas supplies a youthful vigor to the 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 if you happen to 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 widespread areas, and an incredible on-site bar that serves top-notch craft cocktails.

For extra journey recommendations on Austin, try these posts:

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some laborious occasions, however it 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, dwell jazz music, avenue performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived nicely right here within the Huge Straightforward. You don’t come right here to calm down — 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. All the pieces a price range traveler wants!

For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, try 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 favored the world quite a bit, together with its proximity to some fantastic and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has numerous parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and make sure to try the Asheville Botanical Gardens close to the college campus. The attractive Smoky Mountains are a brief drive away, and the large Biltmore property, the biggest privately owned house within the US and as soon as house to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of the town. (If you happen to’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, if you happen to haven’t, you must! 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 enjoyable. 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 this planet. 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 favored 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 timber full of picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of mountaineering trails. Trails vary from straightforward to strenuous, and there are various loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s totally stunning, 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

Although I visited when many of the park was nonetheless closed (it was too early within the 12 months and there was nonetheless snow round), I used to be nonetheless surprised by the world: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; an attractive, nonetheless lake by which 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 comfy up for a couple of nights below 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 to take a beer tasting tour), glorious eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, one in all my favourite sushi eating places on this planet), 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 need to dwell in, however I like Denver sufficient to say that it’s one in all them.

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated top-of-the-line 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 sweet, I don’t suppose 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 canines), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (make sure to 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 season climate, so there’s a constructive, pleased vibe emanating by way of the 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 a fantastic location. The beds are comfortable and the widespread space is big so it’s straightforward to satisfy individuals.

For extra journey recommendations on Chicago, try 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 residing in Texas. You’ll be able to’t go unsuitable 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 likely one of the greatest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to satisfy individuals right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is big so you’ll be able to prepare dinner extra meals and save your price range.

For journey recommendations on New York Metropolis, try these posts:

11. Natchez

I used to be most shocked 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 desirous 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 crushed path — and my favourite discovery from my final highway 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 fashionable facilities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.

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

12. Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil Battle, allegedly as a result of Basic Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–coated timber, giant and welcoming parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is an excellent 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 over time.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: Thunderbird Inn – This inexpensive 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, implausible 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 all the way down to the underside. Make the time to hike all the way 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 comfy up for a couple of nights below the celebs. You’ll want to order a spot early although as they disappear quick!

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

14. Nashville

Slightly bit nation, just a little bit tech, Nashville is likely one of the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s received an exquisite music scene (including the famous Grand Ole Opry), a rising cocktail bar scene, and a few down-home Southern eating places.

There’s not numerous “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis one in all my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and pleased individuals, and the constructive vitality the town appears to exude. If you’re right here, plan to spend a couple of hours on the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into nice (although generally very one-sided) element in regards to the state’s historical past, however it’s extra thrilling than you would possibly suppose.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Red Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally positioned, this is likely one of the metropolis’s few inexpensive 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 recommendations on Nashville, try these posts:

15. San Francisco

Meals of each nature, hipsters, excessive tech, and a various inhabitants make San Francisco one in all 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 the town and go mountaineering amid big timber (there are lots of half-day guided tours you can take). San Francisco has a lot to do this you want not less than 4 days to actually 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 widespread room so it’s straightforward to satisfy individuals and has a really enjoyable, social ambiance.

For extra journey recommendations on San Francisco, learn these posts:

16. Miami

White sand seashores, Cuban meals, wild nightlife, beautiful individuals, and superb heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t suppose 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 celebration hostels.

For extra journey recommendations on Miami, learn these posts:

17. San Diego

Endlessly heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely pleased inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from mountaineering, days on the seashore, or operating. And they’re all the time pleased to indicate individuals 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 give attention to 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 strain 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 stage of the lake, in addition to the natural world round it, is unfortunately depleted as a result of California drought, Lake Tahoe remains 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 comfy up for a couple of nights below the celebs. You gained’t be disenchanted.
 

20. Anyplace in Montana

Loads has been written about how beautiful Montana is, however it’s all unsuitable. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s probably the most loopy stunning state I’ve ever been to, full of wondrous mountains and hills so far as the attention can see. The persons are tremendous cool, welcoming, and outdoorsy, too. If I needed to decide a favourite state, it will be Montana. I simply adore it.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Positioned in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is house 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 individuals.
 

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 variety of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide support organizations and embassies). You hear one million 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, calm down, eat, and drink! You should definitely 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, and so they even host a free pleased hour every week!

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

22. Cape Cod

I spent numerous summers on the Cape because it’s the place New Englanders escape for the summer season. 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). If you happen to’re on the lookout for seafood, seashores, boardwalks, and that excellent 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 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 house. Boston rocks (Go Crimson Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, straightforward to get round, and full of superior and constant individuals. It’s house 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 among the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. You should definitely 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 little thing 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 recommendations on Boston, try 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 motels 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 many concert events and reveals.

Get off the Strip, discover the true Vegas (as a result of technically the Strip is positioned in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why individuals resolve to dwell 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 (comparable to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s a fantastic place to attach with different vacationers.

For extra journey recommendations on Las Vegas, these articles will 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, enjoyable 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 top-of-the-line hostels on this planet, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common dwell music, and rather more.

For extra journey recommendations on 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’ll be able to go on an underground tour of the 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 all the time 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 long-lasting Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes every kind of actions so it’s straightforward to satisfy individuals. In addition they supply free breakfast and day by day occasions. It’s one in all my favourite hostels within the nation.

For extra journey recommendations on Seattle, learn this detailed planning guide!
 

27. Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known throughout the Previous West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main target of an HBO sequence. 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 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 likely one of the most cost-effective 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 however it gained’t break the financial institution both.
 

28. Kansas Metropolis

I actually liked this metropolis, which options among 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 identify; I’m not being racist). I want I might have spent extra time, however that’s simply extra motive 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 likely one of the extra inexpensive 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 favored 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 rather more like an Austin or a Portland than your conventional southern/midwest metropolis. Previously, 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 inexpensive, 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, a lot of historical past, and all of the southern attraction you’d ever want. It’s stunning, the persons are good, and there’s a excessive, excessive focus of world-class eating places for such a small metropolis. (If you happen to love seafood, you’re going to adore it right here. This is likely 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 contains free espresso/tea and oatmeal and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are small however the beds are completely comfortable.
 

31. Franklin

Positioned simply outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town attraction. Town is filled with historical past (there was a significant Civil Battle battle right here), a historic important avenue, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t count on a lot and the town actually shocked me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Hotel – This upscale property encompasses a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. If you happen to don’t need to splash out, test 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 publish. In any case, the nation is house to over 329 million individuals and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.

Simply make sure to flip off the highways, head to the small cities, and uncover some favorites of your personal. The perfect of the USA is all the time away from the foremost highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky outlets, and pleasant individuals!

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