From sea to shining sea, the United States is a really numerous nation – each on the subject of tradition and pure magnificence.
I’ve traveled throughout the continental United States many instances over (you by no means actually notice how large Texas is till you drive by means 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 lots of time and doesn’t even take note of that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. In brief, I’ve seen lots of this nation.
And there’s a lot price seeing.
Prior to now, I’ve talked about my favourite eating places and classes realized, so it solely appears correct to offer 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 great locations there are right here. (It took me awhile to slender down this listing!)
In no specific order, right here’s my detailed listing of one of the best locations to go to within the USA:
(Notice: This listing relies solely on the place I actually have been. There are much more breathtaking locations I haven’t explored but, which is why they might not be on this listing. 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, a giant waterfront for strolling, and the outstanding, detailed, and transferring Museum of Civil Rights (it’s large, 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 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 full of life honky-tonks and dwell music, funky home bars on Rainey Avenue, wonderful mountain climbing and biking trails, and tons of out of doors actions…Austin has all of it.
Because of all the things from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Entire Meals retailer with the unbelievable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat effectively — 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 situated 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 recommendations on Austin, take a look at these posts:
3. New Orleans
New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some exhausting instances, 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 strolling tour whilst 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 effectively right here within the Huge Straightforward. 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 america.
WHERE TO STAY IN NOLA: HI New Orleans – An award-winning hostel with spacious dorms, cozy beds, privateness curtains, and quick Wi-Fi. All the things a finances traveler wants!
For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, take a look at my prompt itinerary on how one can spend your time there!
4. Asheville
Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: stuffed with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I appreciated the realm so much, together with its proximity to some great and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has lots of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and you should definitely take a look at 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 dwelling within the US and as soon as dwelling to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of town. (In case you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, should you 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 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 planet. I’ve to agree. I didn’t journey the entire coast however the portion I drove (San Francisco to Portland) was unbelievable: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of seashores, and big redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the way in which. Be ready to make gradual progress, as you’ll be pulling over often 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 big redwood timber full of picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of mountain climbing 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 means. It’s a should for anybody road-tripping round California.
WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK: View Crest Lodge – Situated on the coast in Trinidad, this rustic budget-friendly lodge has primary facilities like free Wi-Fi and TV, and a few of their rooms even have full kitchens. It’s a clear, cozy 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 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 gorgeous, nonetheless lake during which to admire these mountains and huge glaciers; and mountain climbing 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: Tenting – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for just a few nights underneath 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 (you should definitely take a beer tasting tour), glorious eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, one in every of my favourite sushi eating places on the planet), a big worldwide airport with a number 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 every of them.
WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated among the finest within the nation, providing a swank inside, free jacuzzi, outside firepit, cozy 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 america. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (attempt the deep dish, sushi, and sizzling canines), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (you should definitely take an structure tour).
And, as soon as the winter deep freeze is over, Chicagoans burst out of their properties to benefit from the summer time climate, so there’s a optimistic, pleased vibe emanating by means of town. Make the most of it.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: HI Chicago – A spacious, clear hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and an amazing location. The beds are cozy and the frequent space is large so it’s straightforward to fulfill folks.
For extra journey recommendations on Chicago, take a look at these posts:
10. New York Metropolis
Town that by no means sleeps. ‘Nuff mentioned. I imply, there’s a cause I moved right here — after which moved again once more after dwelling in Texas. You may’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 without doubt one of the greatest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to fulfill folks right here, they’ve a chill outside patio, and the kitchen is large so you may prepare dinner extra meals and save your finances.
For journey recommendations on 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 properties, 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 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 street journey.
WHERE TO STAY IN NATCHEZ: The Beaumont Home – 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 fashionable facilities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.
For extra journey recommendations on Natchez, take a look at this publish on my go to there.
12. Savannah
Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil Struggle, allegedly as a result of Basic Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–coated timber, massive and welcoming parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is an excellent 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 over time.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: Thunderbird Inn – This inexpensive three-star motel is only a brief 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 unbelievable the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer dimension, improbable depth, pink hues, and putting vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true dimension and wonder 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 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 underneath 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 publish on mountain climbing the canyon.
14. Nashville
Slightly 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 bought an exquisite music scene (together with the well-known Grand Ole Opry), a rising cocktail bar scene, and a few down-home Southern eating places.
There’s not lots of “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis one in every of my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and pleased folks, and the optimistic vitality town appears to exude. If 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 in regards to the state’s historical past, but it surely’s extra thrilling than you would possibly suppose.
WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Crimson Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally situated, this is without doubt 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 out of doors pool, free Wi-Fi, and free espresso.
For extra journey recommendations on 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 in every of 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 mountain climbing amid big timber (there are many half-day guided excursions you may take). San Francisco has a lot to try this you want no less than 4 days to essentially admire it.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO: Inexperienced Tortoise – As one of many oldest on the town, this hostel is an establishment in San Francisco. It affords free breakfast, free dinners a number of instances per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous frequent room so it’s straightforward to fulfill folks 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 folks, and wonderful 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 seaside. It’s huge (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra comfy than a budget ones you’ll discover on the get together 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 mountain climbing, days on the seaside, or operating. And they’re all the time pleased to point out folks their metropolis.
The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seashore — is stuffed with stylish seafood eating places, bustling bars, and a few significantly life-changing taco stalls. I like San Diego.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Journey 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 respectable, and the beds are cozy. (For extra hostel strategies, you may learn this publish.
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, this can be a terrific place for mountain climbing and boating in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.
WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Tenting – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for just a few nights underneath the celebs. You gained’t be disillusioned.
20. Wherever in Montana
Quite a bit has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, but it surely’s all unsuitable. 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 will be Montana. I simply like it.
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Situated in downtown Bozeman, this lodge is quiet, clear, and is dwelling to pleasant workers. They arrange 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 america 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 number 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! Make 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 situated 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 pleased hour every week!
For extra journey recommendations on Washington D.C., listed below are another articles I’ve written:
22. Cape Cod
I spent lots 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). In case 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 brief 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 sizzling 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 number of the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. Make 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 brief stroll from just about all the things 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 recommendations on Boston, take a look at these posts:
24. Las Vegas
Vegas, child, Vegas! Lots of people are turned off by the brilliant lights and playing, however Vegas is rather more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and lodges on the well-known Strip. There’s unbelievable mountain climbing close by at Crimson Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and plenty of concert events and exhibits.
Get off the Strip, discover the true Vegas (as a result of technically the Strip is situated in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why folks resolve to dwell right here.
WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin Metropolis Hostel – Only a brief stroll from the (in)well-known Fremont Avenue, this can be a social hostel that hosts every kind of occasions (equivalent to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s an amazing place to attach with different vacationers.
For extra journey recommendations on Las Vegas, these articles may help:
25. Portland
Portland, Oregon is unbelievable. I might 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 mountain climbing 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 finest hostels on the planet, this centrally-located HI hostel affords free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an out of doors courtyard with a firepit, common dwell music, and rather more.
For extra journey recommendations on Portland, learn this publish on town.
26. Seattle
Residence 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 all the time one thing to do there, it’s techy, and everyone seems to be relaxed. Plus, there’s craft beer and low — what’s to not love about that!
WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE: Inexperienced Tortoise – Situated proper throughout from the enduring Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes every kind of actions so it’s straightforward to fulfill folks. Additionally they supply free breakfast and every day occasions. It’s one in every of my favourite hostels within the nation.
For extra journey recommendations on Seattle, learn this detailed planning information!
27. Deadwood
Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known in the course of the Outdated West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main focus of an HBO collection. Kind 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 situated close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Nation Inn – This kitschy lodge is without doubt one of the most cost-effective 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 cherished this metropolis, which options a number of the world’s greatest BBQ and a full of life 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 cause to come back again.
WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – With a health heart, pool, and a good breakfast unfold, this three-star lodge in downtown KC is without doubt 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 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 strong foodie metropolis), and all of the bourbon you may 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. Prior to now, it was thought-about a fly-over metropolis and was skipped by most individuals. It’s undoubtedly not now.
WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – Whereas it could be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is inexpensive, 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 full of life metropolis stuffed with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a number 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. (In case 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 consists of free espresso/tea and oatmeal and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are small however the beds are completely cozy.
31. Franklin
Situated simply outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town allure. Town is stuffed with historical past (there was a significant Civil Struggle battle right here), a historic primary avenue, 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 Lodge – This upscale property contains a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. In case you don’t need to splash out, verify Reserving.com for different choices.
The United States is full of too many “must-sees” locations to go to to listing in a single weblog publish. In spite of everything, the nation is dwelling to over 329 million folks and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.
Simply you should definitely 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 main highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky outlets, and pleasant folks!
For extra journey recommendations on touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts:
E-book Your Journey: Logistical Ideas and Tips
E-book Your Flight
Discover a low-cost flight through the use of Skyscanner. It’s my favourite search engine as a result of it searches web sites and airways across the globe so that you all the time know no stone is being left unturned.
E-book Your Lodging
You may e-book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you wish to keep someplace apart from a hostel, use Reserving.com because it persistently returns the most affordable charges for guesthouses and lodges.
Don’t Overlook Journey Insurance coverage
Journey insurance coverage will shield you in opposition to sickness, harm, theft, and cancellations. It’s complete safety in case something goes unsuitable. I by no means go on a visit with out it as I’ve had to make use of it many instances prior to now. My favourite corporations that provide one of the best service and worth are:
Wish to Journey for Free?
Journey bank cards can help you earn factors that may be redeemed totally free flights and lodging — all with none further spending. Take a look at my information to selecting the correct card and my present favorites to get began and see the most recent greatest offers.
Want a Rental Automotive?
Uncover Vehicles is a budget-friendly worldwide automobile rental web site. Irrespective of the place you’re headed, they’ll have the ability to discover one of the best — and most cost-effective — rental to your journey!
Want Assist Discovering Actions for Your Journey?
Get Your Information is a big on-line market the place you will discover cool strolling excursions, enjoyable excursions, skip-the-line tickets, personal guides, and extra.
Able to E-book Your Journey?
Take a look at my useful resource web page for one of the best corporations to make use of whenever you journey. I listing all those I take advantage of once I journey. They’re one of the best in school and you may’t go unsuitable utilizing them in your journey.
