From sea to shining sea, the US is a really numerous nation – each with regards to tradition and pure magnificence.
I’ve traveled throughout the continental United States many instances over (you by no means actually understand how large Texas is till you drive by way of it. Rattling that state is large!). I believe, simply on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the nation. That’s a whole lot of time and doesn’t even consider that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. Briefly, I’ve seen a whole lot of this nation.
And there’s a lot value seeing.
Prior 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 very best 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 slender down this listing!)
In no explicit order, right here’s my detailed listing of the very best locations to go to within the USA:
(Notice: This listing relies solely on the place I personally 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 value 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 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 outstanding, detailed, and shifting Museum of Civil Rights (it’s large, so don’t rush it!). I loved town greater than I anticipated and was disillusioned after I needed to go away. To make use of a cliché, it’s a hidden gem!
WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS: Hostel Memphis – A hip hostel in a century-old constructing with a fully-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The hostel can 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 full of life honky-tonks and reside music, funky home bars on Rainey Avenue, superb climbing and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.
Because of every little thing from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Complete Meals retailer with the unbelievable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat nicely — at any time when I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas offers a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal perspective attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. Briefly, you’ll be able to’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 previous firehall from 1885. They’ve quick Wi-Fi, loads of chill frequent 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 arduous instances, 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 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 nicely right here within the Massive Simple. You don’t come right here to chill out — you come right here to indulge! In my view, New Orleans one of the crucial eclectic and vibrant cities in the US.
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 price range traveler wants!
For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, try my urged itinerary on the way to spend your time there!
4. Asheville
Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: filled with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I favored 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 whole lot of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and be sure you 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 most important privately owned house within the US and as soon as house to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of town. (When you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, in case 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 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 crucial 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 unbelievable: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of seashores, and large redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the best way. Be ready to make sluggish progress, as you’ll be pulling over steadily 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 large redwood bushes stuffed with picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of climbing trails. Trails vary from simple to strenuous, and there are lots of loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s totally lovely, awe-inspiring, and humbling in each method. It’s a should for anybody road-tripping round 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, cozy 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 realm: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a ravishing, nonetheless lake wherein to admire these mountains and enormous glaciers; and 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 below the celebs. You gained’t be disillusioned.
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), wonderful eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, certainly one of 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 reside in, however I really like Denver sufficient to say that it’s certainly one 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, out of doors 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 assume there’s a greater metropolis in the US. 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 (be sure you 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, completely satisfied vibe emanating by way of town. Benefit from it.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: HI Chicago – A spacious, clear hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and an incredible location. The beds are cozy and the frequent space is large so it’s simple to satisfy individuals.
For extra journey recommendations on Chicago, try these posts:
10. New York Metropolis
The 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’ll be able to’t go mistaken 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 among the largest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous simple to satisfy individuals right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is large so you’ll be able to cook 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 useful as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century properties, constructed by remoted plantation house owners eager to get away in the summertime and work together and socialize with one another. As cotton turned king, the homes turned ever bigger and extra elaborate.
Now, they’re historic monuments, and you’ll tour them whereas having fun with a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the overwhelmed path — and my favourite discovery from my final highway 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, try this put up on my go to there.
12. Savannah
Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil Conflict, allegedly as a result of Common Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–lined bushes, massive and alluring parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is an excellent place to expertise the sluggish tempo of the Outdated South. I had visited this metropolis many, a few years in the past, however its magnificence, Southern consolation meals, and tranquility caught with me through the years.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: Thunderbird Inn – This 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 unbelievable the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer measurement, incredible depth, pink hues, and putting 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 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 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 put up on climbing the canyon.
14. Nashville
A little bit bit nation, a little bit bit tech, Nashville is among 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 a whole lot of “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis certainly one of my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and completely satisfied individuals, and the optimistic vitality town appears to exude. Whenever you’re right here, plan to spend just a few hours on the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into nice (although typically very one-sided) element concerning the state’s historical past, however it’s extra thrilling than you may assume.
WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Crimson Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally situated, this is among 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, try these posts:
15. San Francisco
Meals of each nature, hipsters, excessive tech, and a various inhabitants make San Francisco certainly one of 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 climbing amid large bushes (there are many half-day guided excursions you’ll be able to take). San Francisco has a lot to do this you want at the least 4 days to essentially 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 gives free breakfast, free dinners a number of instances per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous frequent room so it’s simple to satisfy individuals 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 individuals, and superb heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t assume 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 huge (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra snug than a budget ones you’ll discover on the occasion hostels.
For extra journey recommendations on Miami, learn these posts:
17. San Diego
Endlessly heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely completely satisfied inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from climbing, days on the seashore, or operating. And they’re at all times completely satisfied to indicate individuals their metropolis.
The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seashore — is stuffed with fashionable seafood eating places, bustling bars, and a few critically life-changing taco stalls. I really like San Diego.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Journey 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 respectable, and the beds are cozy. (For extra hostel ideas, you’ll be able to learn this put up.
19. Lake Tahoe
Although the water stage of the lake, in addition to the natural world round it, is unfortunately depleted because of the California drought, Lake Tahoe continues to be nonetheless spectacular and delightful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this can be a terrific place for 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 below the celebs. You gained’t be disillusioned.
20. Wherever in Montana
So much has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, however 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 decide a favourite state, it could be Montana. I simply find it irresistible.
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Positioned in downtown Bozeman, this lodge is quiet, clear, and is house to pleasant workers. They arrange every kind of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s simple to hang around and meet individuals.
21. Washington D.C.
The capital of the US 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 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 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! You’ll want to 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 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 completely satisfied hour every week!
For extra journey recommendations on Washington D.C., listed below are another articles I’ve written:
22. Cape Cod
I spent a whole lot 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). When you’re in search of seafood, seashores, boardwalks, and that good household trip, go to the Cape!
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD: Cape Sands Inn – Only a quick stroll from the 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 house. Boston rocks (Go Crimson Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, simple to get round, and stuffed with 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 a few of the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. You’ll want to eat at Zaftigs for the very 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 frequent 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 brilliant lights and playing, however Vegas is rather more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and motels on the well-known Strip. There’s unbelievable climbing close by at Crimson Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and many live shows and reveals.
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 individuals resolve to reside right here.
WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin Metropolis Hostel – Only a quick stroll from the (in)well-known Fremont Avenue, this can be a social hostel that hosts every kind of occasions (corresponding to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s an incredible 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, enjoyable parks (together with a peaceable Japanese backyard), a vibrant artwork scene, and 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 earth, this centrally-located HI hostel gives free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an out of doors courtyard with a firepit, common reside music, and rather more.
For extra journey recommendations on Portland, learn this put up on town.
26. Seattle
Residence to a little bit enterprise known 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 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 – Positioned proper throughout from the enduring Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes every kind of actions so it’s simple to satisfy individuals. Additionally they supply free breakfast and each day occasions. It’s certainly one 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 target of an HBO collection. Kind 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 situated close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Nation Inn – This kitschy lodge is among 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 beloved this metropolis, which options a few 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 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 heart, pool, and a good breakfast unfold, this three-star lodge in downtown KC is among the extra inexpensive locations to crash within the metropolis.
29. Louisville
Louisville sits on the Ohio River and is the most important 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. Prior to now, it was thought of a fly-over metropolis and was skipped by most individuals. It’s positively not now.
WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – Whereas it 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 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 allure you’d ever want. It’s lovely, the individuals are good, and there’s a excessive, excessive focus of world-class eating places for such a small metropolis. (When you love seafood, you’re going to find it irresistible right here. This is among 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 cozy.
31. Franklin
Positioned simply outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town allure. The town is stuffed with historical past (there was a serious Civil Conflict 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 shocked me. It’s the right two-night vacation spot.
WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Resort – This upscale property contains a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. When you don’t need to splash out, verify Reserving.com for different choices.
America is stuffed with too many “must-sees” locations to go to to listing in a single weblog put up. In any case, the nation is house to over 329 million individuals 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 individual. The most effective of the USA is at all times away from the main highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky outlets, and pleasant individuals!
For extra journey recommendations on touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts:
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