31 Finest Locations to Go to within the USA (Up to date 2025)

From sea to shining sea, the United States is a really various nation – each in the case 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 via it. Rattling that state is huge!). I believe, simply on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the nation. That’s plenty of time and doesn’t even consider that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. Briefly, I’ve seen plenty of this nation.

And there’s a lot price seeing.

Up to now, I’ve talked about my favourite eating places and classes realized, so it solely appears correct to present you an inventory of the perfect 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 great locations there are right here. (It took me awhile to slender down this listing!)

In no explicit order, right here’s my detailed listing of the perfect 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 will 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 finest days are behind it, however don’t let the tough exterior idiot you — town remains to be residence to some killer meals and a vibrant blues music scene. Moreover, there’s Graceland (Elvis’s residence) for followers of the King, a giant waterfront for strolling, and the exceptional, detailed, and transferring Museum of Civil Rights (it’s enormous, so don’t rush it!). I loved town greater than I anticipated and was dissatisfied 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 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 reside music, funky home bars on Rainey Road, superb mountain climbing and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.

Due to the whole lot from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Complete Meals retailer with the unbelievable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat effectively — at any time when I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas supplies a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal perspective attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. Briefly, you possibly can’t skip Austin, as a result of in case 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 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 recommendations on Austin, take a look at these posts:

 

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some laborious occasions, nevertheless 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 strolling tour when you’re right here) and is stuffed with 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 effectively right here within the Massive Straightforward. You don’t come right here to calm down — you come right here to indulge! For my part, New Orleans probably the most eclectic and vibrant cities in america.

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

For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, take a look at my recommended itinerary on how you can 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 plenty of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and be sure you 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 residence within the US and as soon as residence to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of town. (Should you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, in case 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 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 probably the most 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 large redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the way in which. Be ready to make gradual progress, as you’ll be pulling over ceaselessly 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 timber stuffed with picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of mountain climbing trails. Trails vary from simple to strenuous, and there are numerous loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s completely lovely, awe-inspiring, and humbling in each approach. 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 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

Regardless that I visited when a lot 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 shocked by the world: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a lovely, nonetheless lake during which to admire these mountains and enormous 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 comfy up for just a few nights beneath the celebs. You received’t be dissatisfied.
 

8. Denver

Denver has a mixture of out of doors ruggedness and big-city dwelling. It has an enormous craft beer scene (be sure you take a beer tasting tour), glorious eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, one in all my favourite sushi eating places on the planet), 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 wish to reside 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 among the finest 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 america. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (strive the deep dish, sushi, and sizzling canine), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (be 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 optimistic, blissful vibe emanating via 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 excellent location. The beds are comfortable and the widespread space is big so it’s simple to fulfill folks.

For extra journey recommendations on 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 motive I moved right here — after which moved again once more after dwelling in Texas. You may’t go mistaken 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 among the largest and finest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous simple to fulfill folks right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is big so you possibly can 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 useful 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 Home – 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 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 Battle, allegedly as a result of Common Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–lined timber, giant and welcoming parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a superb place to expertise the gradual 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 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 unbelievable the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer measurement, unbelievable depth, crimson hues, and placing vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true measurement and wonder are finest 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 comfy 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 recommendations on the Grand Canyon, learn this publish on mountain climbing the canyon.
 

14. Nashville

A bit bit nation, a bit of bit tech, Nashville is among the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s received a beautiful 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 plenty of “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 blissful folks, and the optimistic vitality 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 in regards to the state’s historical past, nevertheless it’s extra thrilling than you may suppose.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Crimson Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally situated, this is among 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 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 all my favourite locations to go to. Moreover, it’s near some great nationwide parks, like Muir Woods, the place you possibly can escape town and go mountain climbing amid large timber (there are many half-day guided excursions you possibly can take). San Francisco has a lot to try this you want at the very least 4 days to actually respect 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 presents free breakfast, free dinners a number of occasions per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous widespread room so it’s simple to fulfill folks and has a really enjoyable, social environment.

For extra journey recommendations on 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 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 seashore. It’s large (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 blissful inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from mountain climbing, days on the seashore, or working. And they’re at all times blissful to indicate 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 severely life-changing taco stalls. I like San Diego.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Journey 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 strain within the showers is respectable, and the beds are comfortable. (For extra hostel ideas, you possibly can learn this publish.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Although the water stage of the lake, in addition to the wildlife round it, is unfortunately depleted because of the California drought, Lake Tahoe remains to be nonetheless spectacular and exquisite. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, it is 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 comfy up for just a few nights beneath the celebs. You received’t be dissatisfied.
 

20. Anyplace in Montana

So much has been written about how beautiful Montana is, nevertheless it’s all mistaken. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s essentially the most loopy lovely state I’ve ever been to, stuffed with 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 adore it.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Situated in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is residence to pleasant employees. They arrange all types of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s simple 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 help organizations and embassies). You hear one million accents on this city! Throw within the free Smithsonian museums, numerous parks, a riverfront for strolling or working, and a few historic authorities buildings and monuments, and D.C. turns into one phenomenal place to go to, calm down, 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 situated 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 blissful hour every week!

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

 

22. Cape Cod

I spent plenty 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 essentially the most well-known however I additionally love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). Should 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 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 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 residence. Boston rocks (Go Crimson Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, simple to get round, and stuffed with superior and constant folks. It’s residence 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 finest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. Be sure you eat at Zaftigs for the perfect 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 the whole lot within the metropolis. They’ve female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and a number of other chill widespread areas the place you possibly can 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 far more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and motels 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 live shows and exhibits.

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

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

For extra journey recommendations on Las Vegas, these articles will help:

 

25. Portland

Portland, Oregon is unbelievable. 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, enjoyable 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 presents free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common reside music, and far more.

For extra journey recommendations on Portland, learn this publish on town.
 

26. Seattle

House to a bit of 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 possibly can 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: Inexperienced Tortoise – Situated proper throughout from the long-lasting Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes all types of actions so it’s simple to fulfill folks. In addition they provide 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 information!
 

27. Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known through the Previous West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main focus of an HBO collection. Type of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a really cool place the place you possibly can expertise a style of the outdated 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 resort is among 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 nevertheless it received’t break the financial institution both.
 

28. Kansas Metropolis

I actually beloved this metropolis, which options a few of the world’s finest 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 title; 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 middle, pool, and an honest breakfast unfold, this three-star resort in downtown KC is among 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 possibly can 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. Up to now, it was thought of a fly-over metropolis and was skipped by most individuals. It’s undoubtedly not now.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – Whereas it might 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 comfortable.
 

30. Charleston

Charleston is one other full of life metropolis filled with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, numerous historical past, and all of the southern attraction 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. (Should you love seafood, you’re going to adore it right here. This is among the finest 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 attraction. The town is stuffed with historical past (there was a significant Civil Battle battle right here), a historic most important road, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t anticipate 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 middle, bar, and terrace. Should you don’t wish to splash out, verify Reserving.com for different choices.

***

The United States is stuffed with too many “must-sees” locations to go to to listing in a single weblog publish. In any case, the nation is residence to over 329 million folks and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.

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

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