From sea to shining sea, the US is a really various nation – each in terms of 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 lots of time and doesn’t even have in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. Briefly, I’ve seen lots of this nation.
And there’s a lot price seeing.
Previously, I’ve talked about my favourite eating places and classes realized, so it solely appears correct to offer 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 great locations there are right here. (It took me awhile to slim down this listing!)
In no explicit order, right here’s my detailed listing of the very best locations to go to within the USA:
(Observe: 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 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 — 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, an enormous waterfront for strolling, and the outstanding, detailed, and transferring Museum of Civil Rights (it’s large, so don’t rush it!). I loved the town greater than I anticipated and was disillusioned 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 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 vigorous honky-tonks and stay music, funky home bars on Rainey Avenue, superb mountain climbing and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.
Due to every little thing from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Entire Meals retailer with the unimaginable 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 offers a youthful vigor to the town, and its liberal perspective attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. Briefly, 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 outdated firehall from 1885. They’ve quick Wi-Fi, loads of chill widespread areas, and an incredible on-site bar that serves top-notch craft cocktails.
For extra journey tips about 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 whilst you’re right here) and is crammed with delicious French-inspired Creole and Cajun meals, stay 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 loosen up — you come right here to indulge! For my part, New Orleans probably the most eclectic and vibrant cities in the US.
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 tips about touring New Orleans, try my urged itinerary on 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 rather a lot, 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 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 dwelling within the US and as soon as dwelling to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of the town. (In the event you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, in the event you haven’t, it is 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 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 probably the most scenic on this planet. I’ve to agree. I didn’t journey the entire coast however the portion I drove (San Francisco to Portland) was unimaginable: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of seashores, and 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 timber crammed with picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of mountain climbing trails. Trails vary from simple 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, comfortable no-frills place to crash for an evening.
7. Glacier Nationwide Park
Despite the fact that I visited when many of the park was nonetheless closed (it was too early within the 12 months and there was nonetheless snow round), I used to be nonetheless surprised by the realm: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a good looking, nonetheless lake by which to admire these mountains and enormous glaciers; and mountain 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 lease) a tent and comfortable up for a couple of nights underneath the celebs. You received’t be disillusioned.
8. Denver
Denver has a mixture of outside 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 among my favourite sushi eating places on this 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 stay in, however I like Denver sufficient to say that it’s one among them.
WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated among the best within the nation, providing a swank inside, free jacuzzi, outside firepit, comfortable beds with blackout curtains, low cost in a single day parking, and extra.
9. Chicago
When the climate is sweet, I don’t suppose there’s a greater metropolis in the US. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (strive 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 (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 constructive, blissful vibe emanating by way of the 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 comfortable and the widespread space is large so it’s simple to satisfy folks.
For extra journey tips about Chicago, try these posts:
10. New York Metropolis
The town that by no means sleeps. ‘Nuff mentioned. I imply, there’s a purpose 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 need to go.
WHERE TO STAY IN NYC: HI NYC – This is without doubt one of the largest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous simple to satisfy folks right here, they’ve a chill outside patio, and the kitchen is large so you possibly can prepare dinner extra meals and save your finances.
For journey tips about 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 advisable as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century properties, constructed by remoted plantation homeowners desirous 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 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 consists of free breakfast and spacious historic rooms in addition to fashionable facilities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.
For extra journey tips about 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 Normal Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–lined timber, giant and alluring parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a superb place to expertise the sluggish tempo of the Previous South. I had visited this metropolis many, a few years in the past, however its magnificence, Southern consolation meals, and tranquility caught with me through the years.
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 accessible within the foyer.
13. The Grand Canyon
Phrases can’t precisely describe how unimaginable the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer measurement, unbelievable depth, pink 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 greatest appreciated with a hike all the way down to the underside. Make the time to hike all the way down to the Colorado River, hike the much less visited trails, spend the night time, and hike again up for sundown.
WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON: Camp – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for a couple of nights underneath the celebs. You’ll want to order a spot early although as they disappear quick!
For extra journey tips about the Grand Canyon, learn this put up on mountain climbing the canyon.
14. Nashville
A little bit 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 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 lots of “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis one among my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and blissful folks, and the constructive power the town appears to exude. Once you’re right here, plan to spend a couple of hours on the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into nice (although typically very one-sided) element in regards to the state’s historical past, however it’s extra thrilling than you may suppose.
WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Pink Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally positioned, this is without doubt one of 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 tips about Nashville, try these posts:
15. San Francisco
Meals of each nature, hipsters, excessive tech, and a various inhabitants make San Francisco one among 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 mountain climbing amid large timber (there are many half-day guided excursions you possibly can take). San Francisco has a lot to do this you want a minimum of 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 widespread room so it’s simple to satisfy folks and has a really enjoyable, social environment.
For extra journey tips about 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 may 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 seashore. It’s large (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra snug than a budget ones you’ll discover on the occasion hostels.
For extra journey tips about Miami, learn these posts:
17. San Diego
Ceaselessly 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 all the time blissful to point out folks 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 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 may 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 solutions, you possibly can 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 as a result of California drought, Lake Tahoe continues to be nonetheless spectacular and exquisite. 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 a couple of nights underneath the celebs. You received’t be disillusioned.
20. Anyplace in Montana
Rather a lot has been written about how beautiful Montana is, however it’s all mistaken. 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 persons are tremendous cool, welcoming, and outdoorsy, too. If I needed to decide a favourite state, it might be Montana. I simply find it irresistible.
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Situated in downtown Bozeman, this lodge is quiet, clear, and is dwelling to pleasant employees. They manage 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 the US is a vibrant, worldwide metropolis, and that’s what I like about it. It’s second solely to NYC in variety of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide support organizations and embassies). You hear one million accents on this city! Throw within the free Smithsonian museums, a number of 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, loosen up, eat, and drink! You should definitely 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 positioned in an outdated 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 tips about 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 seashore cities alongside the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being probably the most well-known however I additionally love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). In the event you’re searching for seafood, seashores, boardwalks, and that excellent household trip, go to the Cape!
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD: Cape Sands Inn – Only a quick stroll from the seashore in West Yarmouth, this three-star property has all the usual facilities (TV, free Wi-Fi), in addition to free parking and a soothing 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 Pink Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, simple 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 a few of the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. You should definitely 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 widespread areas the place you possibly can meet different vacationers.
For extra journey tips about Boston, try these posts:
24. Las Vegas
Vegas, child, Vegas! Lots of people are turned off by the intense lights and playing, however Vegas is way more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and inns on the well-known Strip. There’s unimaginable mountain climbing close by at Pink Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and plenty of concert events and exhibits.
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 determine to stay 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 all types of occasions (reminiscent of 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 tips about Las Vegas, these articles will help:
25. Portland
Portland, Oregon is unimaginable. 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 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 best hostels on this planet, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common stay music, and way more.
For extra journey tips about Portland, learn this put up on the town.
26. Seattle
Residence to just a little 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 simple to satisfy folks. Additionally they supply free breakfast and day by day occasions. It’s one among my favourite hostels within the nation.
For extra journey tips about Seattle, learn this detailed planning information!
27. Deadwood
Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known throughout the Previous West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main target of an HBO collection. Kind 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 positioned 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 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 however it received’t break the financial institution both.
28. Kansas Metropolis
I actually liked this metropolis, which options a few of 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 may have spent extra time, however that’s simply extra purpose to come back again.
WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – With a health middle, pool, and a good breakfast unfold, this three-star lodge in downtown KC is without doubt one of the extra reasonably priced 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 stunned 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 possibly can drink.
Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels way more like an Austin or a Portland than your conventional southern/midwest metropolis. Previously, 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 reasonably priced, consists of free breakfast and free parking, and has free Wi-Fi. It’s a no-frills alternative however clear and cozy.
30. Charleston
Charleston is one other vigorous metropolis filled with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a number of historical past, and all of the southern appeal you’d ever want. It’s lovely, the persons are good, and there’s a excessive, excessive focus of world-class eating places for such a small metropolis. (In the event you love seafood, you’re going to find it irresistible 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 comfortable.
31. Franklin
Situated simply outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town appeal. The town is stuffed with historical past (there was a significant Civil Conflict battle right here), a historic primary avenue, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t count on a lot and the town actually stunned me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.
WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Lodge – This upscale property includes a restaurant on-site, health middle, bar, and terrace. In the event you don’t need to splash out, verify Reserving.com for different choices.
The USA is crammed with too many “must-sees” locations to go to to listing in a single weblog put up. In spite of everything, the nation is dwelling 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 individual. The very best of the USA is all the time away from the key highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky outlets, and pleasant folks!
For extra journey tips about touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts:
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