31 Best Places to Visit in the USA (Updated 2025)

From sea to shining sea, the USA is a really numerous nation – each relating to 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 numerous time and doesn’t even bear in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. Briefly, I’ve seen numerous this nation.

And there’s a lot price seeing.

Prior to now, I’ve talked about my favourite eating places and classes realized, so it solely appears correct to provide 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 specific order, right here’s my detailed listing of the very best locations to go to within the USA:

(Observe: This listing is predicated 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 finest days are behind it, however don’t let the tough exterior idiot you — town remains 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 exceptional, detailed, and shifting Museum of Civil Rights (it’s enormous, so don’t rush it!). I loved town greater than I anticipated and was upset 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 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 energetic honky-tonks and dwell 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 every part from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Complete Meals retailer with the unimaginable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat properly — at any time when I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas gives a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal perspective attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. Briefly, you may’t skip Austin, as a result of when 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 an incredible 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, 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 full of delicious French-inspired Creole and Cajun meals, dwell jazz music, avenue performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived properly right here within the Huge Straightforward. You don’t come right here to calm down — you come right here to indulge! In my view, 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. All the pieces a funds traveler wants!

For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, take a look at my advised itinerary on how one can spend your time there!
 

4. Asheville

Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: stuffed with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I appreciated the realm lots, together with its proximity to some fantastic and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has numerous parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and make 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 big 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. (In the event you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, when 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 one of the crucial 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 gradual progress, as you’ll be pulling over regularly 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 bushes full of picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of climbing trails. Trails vary from straightforward to strenuous, and there are a lot of loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s completely lovely, awe-inspiring, and humbling in each manner. 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, 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 surprised by the realm: attractive snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a good looking, nonetheless lake through which 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 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 celebs. You gained’t be upset.
 

8. Denver

Denver has a mixture of out of doors ruggedness and big-city dwelling. It has an enormous craft beer scene (make sure you take a beer tasting tour), wonderful eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, one in every of my favourite sushi eating places on this planet), a big worldwide airport with a lot 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 dwell 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 (attempt the deep dish, sushi, and scorching canine), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (make 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, comfortable 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 a fantastic location. The beds are comfortable and the frequent space is large so it’s straightforward to satisfy 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 purpose I moved right here — after which moved again once more after dwelling in Texas. You’ll be able to’t go unsuitable 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 finest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to satisfy folks right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is large so you may prepare dinner extra meals and save your funds.

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 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 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 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 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 Warfare, allegedly as a result of Basic Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–lined bushes, giant and welcoming parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is an excellent 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 out there 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 dimension, incredible depth, purple hues, and placing vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true dimension 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 evening, 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 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 climbing the canyon.
 

14. Nashville

Just a little bit nation, a bit of bit tech, Nashville is likely one of the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s acquired 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 numerous “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 comfortable folks, and the constructive power town appears to exude. While you’re right here, plan to spend a number 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: Purple Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally positioned, this is likely 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 recommendations on Nashville, take a look at these posts:

 

15. San Francisco

Meals of each nature, hipsters, excessive tech, and a various inhabitants make San Francisco one in every of my favourite locations to go to. Moreover, it’s near some fantastic nationwide parks, like Muir Woods, the place you may escape town and go climbing amid large bushes (there are many half-day guided excursions you may take). San Francisco has a lot to do this you want a minimum of 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 provides free breakfast, free dinners a number of occasions per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous frequent room so it’s straightforward to satisfy 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, attractive folks, and wonderful heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t suppose I might ever dwell right here, however for a weekend of enjoyable within the solar, Miami is ideal.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI: Generator Miami – This hostel has a pool, two eating places, a bar, and is simply minutes away from the seashore. It’s large (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra comfy than a budget ones you’ll discover on the social gathering hostels.

For extra journey recommendations on Miami, learn these posts:

 

17. San Diego

Perpetually heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely comfortable inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from climbing, days on the seashore, or working. And they’re at all times comfortable to point out folks their metropolis.

The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seashore — is filled 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 ideas, you may learn this publish.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Although the water stage of the lake, in addition to the natural world round it, is unfortunately depleted as a result of California drought, Lake Tahoe remains to be nonetheless spectacular and delightful. 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 celebs. You gained’t be upset.
 

20. Wherever in Montana

Rather a lot has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, however it’s all unsuitable. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s essentially the most loopy lovely state I’ve ever been to, full of wondrous mountains and hills so far as the attention can see. The persons 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 – Positioned in downtown Bozeman, this lodge is quiet, clear, and is house to pleasant employees. They set up every kind of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s straightforward to hang around and meet folks.
 

21. Washington D.C.

The capital of 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 lot 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, calm down, 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 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 comfortable hour every week!

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

 

22. Cape Cod

I spent numerous 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). 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 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 Purple Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, straightforward to get round, and full of superior and constant folks. 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 finest 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 part within the metropolis. They’ve female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and several other chill frequent areas the place you may meet different vacationers.

For extra journey recommendations on Boston, take a look at these posts:

 

24. Las Vegas

Vegas, child, Vegas! Lots of people are turned off by the intense lights and playing, however Vegas is way more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and resorts on the well-known Strip. There’s unimaginable climbing close by at Purple Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and many concert events and exhibits.

Get off the Strip, discover the true Vegas (as a result of technically the Strip is positioned in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why folks determine to dwell 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 every kind of occasions (akin to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s a fantastic place to attach with different vacationers.

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

 

25. Portland

Portland, Oregon is unimaginable. I’d 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 this planet, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common dwell music, and way 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, recent fish, genuine Asian meals, artwork museums, and funky nightlife. In historic Pioneer Sq., you may go on an underground tour of town’s ruins (a hella cool expertise). Furthermore, you’re proper on the water and, climate allowing, can head out onto Elliott Bay to discover some little islands. Seattle is only a cool metropolis. There’s 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 straightforward to satisfy folks. Additionally they provide free breakfast and every day occasions. It’s one in every of my favourite hostels within the nation.

For extra journey recommendations on Seattle, learn this detailed planning information!
 

27. Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known in the course of the Previous West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main focus of an HBO sequence. Form of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a really cool place the place you may expertise a style of the previous frontier days. It’s additionally conveniently positioned close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.

WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Nation Inn – This kitschy lodge is likely one of the least expensive 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 liked this metropolis, which options a few of the world’s finest BBQ and a energetic 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 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 likely 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 appreciated it and the way a lot there was to do right here. There’s a longtime theatre scene, a handful of museums and galleries, tons of scrumptious locations to eat (it’s a strong foodie metropolis), and all of the bourbon you may drink.

Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels way 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 might 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 comfortable.
 

30. Charleston

Charleston is one other energetic metropolis stuffed with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a lot of historical past, and all of the southern attraction 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 adore it right here. This is likely one of the finest cities within the nation for seafood.)

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON: Charlestons NotSo Hostel – Positioned 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

Positioned simply outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town attraction. The town is filled with historical past (there was a significant Civil Warfare battle right here), a historic foremost avenue, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t count on a lot and town actually stunned me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Resort – This upscale property incorporates a restaurant on-site, health middle, bar, and terrace. In the event you don’t wish to splash out, examine Reserving.com for different choices.

***

The USA is full of too many “must-sees” locations to go to to listing in a single weblog publish. In spite of everything, the nation is house to over 329 million folks and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.

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

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