31 Greatest 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 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 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 a whole lot 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 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 discovered, so it solely appears correct to provide you an inventory of the most effective locations to go to within the USA.

All these locations are close to and pricey to my coronary heart and actually showcase simply how particular this nation is and what number of 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 the most effective 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 is probably not 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 — the 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 enormous, so don’t rush it!). I loved the town greater than I anticipated and was dissatisfied after I needed to depart. To make use of a cliché, it’s a hidden gem!

WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS: Hostel Memphis – A hip hostel in a century-old constructing with a fully-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The hostel can also be a non-profit that donates 100% of its revenue to social justice causes across the metropolis.
 

2. Austin

I really like Austin (I 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 stay music, funky home bars on Rainey Road, wonderful climbing and biking trails, and tons of out of doors 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 the town, and its liberal angle attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. In brief, you possibly can’t skip Austin, as a result of in the event you do, I’ll discover you and drag you there.

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN: Firehouse Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is positioned in an 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, try these posts:

 

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some exhausting 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 crammed with delicious French-inspired Creole and Cajun meals, stay jazz music, road performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived effectively right here within the Large Simple. You don’t come right here to loosen up — you come right here to indulge! For my part, New Orleans one of the crucial eclectic and vibrant cities in the USA.

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

For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, try my instructed itinerary on spend your time there!
 

4. Asheville

Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: stuffed with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I preferred the world loads, together with its proximity to some great 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 you’ll want to try the Asheville Botanical Gardens close to the college campus. The gorgeous Smoky Mountains are a brief drive away, and the big Biltmore property, the biggest privately owned dwelling within the US and as soon as dwelling to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of the town. (For those who’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, in the event 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 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 preferred Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Mendocino, California.
 

6. Redwood Nationwide Park

Alongside the Pacific Coast is Redwood Nationwide Park, a big expanse of large redwood bushes crammed with picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of climbing trails. Trails vary from straightforward to strenuous, and there are numerous 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 – 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, 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 yr 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 stupendous, nonetheless lake during which to admire these mountains and enormous glaciers; and climbing 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: Tenting – Pack (or hire) a tent and comfortable up for a number of nights beneath the celebrities. 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 (you’ll want to take a beer tasting tour), glorious eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, one in every of my favourite sushi eating places on the earth), 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 wish to stay in, however I really 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 probably the greatest 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 the USA. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (strive 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 (you’ll want 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 optimistic, blissful vibe emanating by 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 an awesome location. The beds are comfortable and the frequent space is large so it’s straightforward to fulfill folks.

For extra journey recommendations on Chicago, try these posts:

 

10. New York Metropolis

The 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’ll be able to’t go incorrect 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 likely one of the greatest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to fulfill folks right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is large so you possibly can prepare dinner extra meals and save your finances.

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

 

11. Natchez

I used to be most stunned by this Mississippi metropolis. I didn’t know something about it, however Natchez was beneficial as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century houses, constructed by remoted plantation homeowners eager to get away in the summertime and work together and socialize with one another. As cotton grew to become king, the homes grew to become ever bigger and extra elaborate.

Now, they’re historic monuments, and you may 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 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, try 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–coated bushes, giant 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 brief five-minute stroll from downtown. Boasting a retro vibe, there’s free espresso and juice each morning, in addition to free popcorn out there 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 hanging 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 night time, and hike again up for sundown.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON: Camp – Pack (or hire) a tent and comfortable up for a number of nights beneath the celebrities. 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 climbing the canyon.
 

14. Nashville

Somewhat bit nation, slightly bit tech, Nashville is likely one of the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s obtained 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 one in every of my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and blissful folks, and the optimistic vitality the town appears to exude. If you’re right here, plan to spend a number of hours on the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into nice (although generally very one-sided) element concerning the state’s historical past, however it’s extra thrilling than you would possibly suppose.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Crimson 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 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 one in every of my favourite locations to go to. Moreover, it’s near some great nationwide parks, like Muir Woods, the place you possibly can escape the town and go climbing amid large bushes (there are many half-day guided excursions you possibly can take). San Francisco has a lot to try this you want at the least 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 provides 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 stay 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 large (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra comfy 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 blissful inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from climbing, days on the seaside, or operating. And they’re all the time blissful to indicate folks their metropolis.

The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seaside — is stuffed with stylish seafood eating places, bustling bars, and a few severely life-changing taco stalls. I really like San Diego.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Journey Hostel – With a concentrate on 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 possibly can learn this publish.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Although the water degree 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 exquisite. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, it is a terrific place for climbing and boating in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Tenting – Pack (or hire) a tent and comfortable up for a number of nights beneath the celebrities. You received’t be dissatisfied.
 

20. Anyplace in Montana

Rather a lot has been written about how beautiful Montana is, however it’s all incorrect. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s probably the most loopy lovely state I’ve ever been to, crammed 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 could 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 dwelling to pleasant employees. They arrange all types of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s straightforward to hang around and meet folks.
 

21. Washington D.C.

The capital of the USA is a vibrant, worldwide metropolis, and that’s what I really like about it. It’s second solely to NYC in variety of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide assist organizations and embassies). You hear one million 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, loosen up, 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 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 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 a whole lot of summers on the Cape because it’s the place New Englanders escape for the summer season. You’ll discover loads of small seaside cities alongside the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being probably the most well-known however I additionally love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). For those who’re in search of seafood, seashores, boardwalks, and that excellent 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 scorching tub.
 

23. Boston

I could also be biased as a result of I grew up right here, however I really like Boston and cherish my visits dwelling. Boston rocks (Go Crimson Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, straightforward to get round, and crammed with 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 among the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. You’ll want to eat at Zaftigs for the most effective brunch within the metropolis! It’s depraved!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON: HI Boston – This spacious and clear hostel is only a brief stroll from just about the whole lot within the metropolis. They’ve female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and several other chill frequent areas the place you possibly can 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 far 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 concert events and reveals.

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

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

For extra journey recommendations on Las Vegas, these articles can assist:

 

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 powerful 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 climbing within the close by mountains. There’s even an underground donut scene right here.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND: HI Portland – Northwest – Rated probably the greatest hostels on the earth, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an out of doors courtyard with a firepit, common stay music, and far more.

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

26. Seattle

Residence to slightly 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 possibly can 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 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 all types of actions so it’s straightforward to fulfill folks. In addition they provide free breakfast and each 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 target of an HBO collection. Form of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a really cool place the place you possibly can 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 Nation Inn – This kitschy resort is likely 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 however it received’t break the financial institution both.
 

28. Kansas Metropolis

I actually beloved 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 cause 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 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 stunned at how a lot I preferred it and the way a lot there was to do right here. There’s a longtime theatre scene, a handful of museums and galleries, tons of scrumptious locations to eat (it’s a strong 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. Prior to now, it was thought-about 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 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. (For those who 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 – 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 outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town allure. The town is stuffed with historical past (there was a significant Civil Battle battle right here), a historic major road, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t anticipate a lot and the town actually stunned me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Resort – This upscale property includes a restaurant on-site, health middle, bar, and terrace. For those who don’t wish to splash out, verify Reserving.com for different choices.

***

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

Simply you’ll want to flip off the highways, head to the small cities, and uncover some favorites of your personal. The very best of the USA is all the time away from the foremost highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky retailers, and pleasant folks!

For extra journey recommendations on touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts: