From sea to shining sea, the United States is a really various nation – each with regards 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 by way of it. Rattling that state is huge!). I feel, simply on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the nation. That’s plenty of time and doesn’t even have in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. In brief, I’ve seen plenty 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 provide you a listing of the perfect locations to go to within the USA.
All these locations are close to and expensive 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 slim down this listing!)
In no explicit order, right here’s my detailed listing of the perfect locations to go to within the USA:
(Notice: This listing is predicated solely on the place I actually have been. There are much more breathtaking locations I haven’t explored but, which is why they will not be on this listing. It doesn’t imply they aren’t value 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, an enormous 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 disenchanted 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 vigorous honky-tonks and stay music, funky home bars on Rainey Avenue, superb mountain climbing and biking trails, and tons of out of doors actions…Austin has all of it.
Because of 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 properly — each time I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas gives a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal angle attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. In brief, you’ll be able to’t skip Austin, as a result of if you happen to do, I’ll discover you and drag you there.
WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN: Firehouse Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is situated in an outdated firehall from 1885. They’ve quick Wi-Fi, loads of chill widespread areas, and 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 exhausting occasions, nevertheless it lives on with a zest for all times unmatched by most locations. It has a wealthy and lengthy historical past (don’t miss taking a haunted strolling tour when you’re right here) and is full of 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 properly right here within the Huge Simple. You don’t come right here to calm down — you come right here to indulge! For my part, New Orleans one of the vital 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 funds traveler wants!
For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, try my recommended itinerary on the right way to 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 quite a bit, together with its proximity to some fantastic and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has plenty of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and remember to try the Asheville Botanical Gardens close to the college campus. The gorgeous Smoky Mountains are a brief drive away, and the large Biltmore property, the biggest 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, if you happen to 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 vital 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 unbelievable: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of seashores, and large redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the way in which. Be ready to make sluggish progress, as you’ll be pulling over continuously 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 mountain climbing trails. Trails vary from straightforward to strenuous, and there are numerous loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s totally stunning, awe-inspiring, and humbling in each approach. It’s a should for anybody road-tripping round California.
WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK: View Crest Lodge – Positioned 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
Although 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; an attractive, nonetheless lake during 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 suggest a go to there sufficient.
WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Tenting – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for a number of nights underneath the celebs. You gained’t be disenchanted.
8. Denver
Denver has a mixture of out of doors ruggedness and big-city residing. It has an enormous craft beer scene (remember to 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 really like Denver sufficient to say that it’s one among them.
WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated the most effective 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 assume 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 canine), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (remember 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 time climate, so there’s a optimistic, joyful vibe emanating by way of 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 important location. The beds are comfortable and the widespread space is large so it’s straightforward to satisfy individuals.
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 motive I moved right here — after which moved again once more after residing 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 greatest and finest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous straightforward to satisfy individuals right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is large so you’ll be able to prepare dinner extra meals and save your funds.
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 really useful as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century houses, constructed by remoted plantation homeowners eager to get away in the summertime and work together and socialize with one another. As cotton grew to become king, the homes grew to become ever bigger and extra elaborate.
Now, they’re historic monuments, and you’ll tour them whereas having fun with a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the 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 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, try this put up 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 Normal Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–lined bushes, massive and welcoming 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 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 obtainable within the foyer.
13. The Grand Canyon
Phrases can’t precisely describe how unbelievable the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer measurement, improbable depth, purple hues, and hanging vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true measurement and wonder are finest appreciated with a hike 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 number of nights underneath 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 mountain climbing the canyon.
14. Nashville
A bit of bit nation, a little bit bit tech, Nashville is among the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s bought a beautiful music scene (together with the well-known Grand Ole Opry), a rising cocktail bar scene, and a few down-home Southern eating places.
There’s not plenty of “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis one among my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and joyful individuals, and the optimistic vitality 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 typically very one-sided) element concerning the state’s historical past, nevertheless it’s extra thrilling than you would possibly assume.
WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Pink 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 one among 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 mountain climbing amid large bushes (there are many half-day guided excursions you’ll be able to take). San Francisco has a lot to try 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 affords free breakfast, free dinners a number of occasions per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous widespread room so it’s straightforward 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, attractive individuals, and superb heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t assume 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 huge (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
Eternally heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely joyful inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from mountain climbing, days on the seashore, or working. And they’re at all times joyful to point out individuals their metropolis.
The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seaside — is filled with stylish 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 deal with 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 stress within the showers is first rate, and the beds are comfortable. (For extra hostel ideas, you’ll be able to learn this put up.
19. Lake Tahoe
Although the water degree of the lake, in addition to the wildlife round it, is unfortunately depleted because of the California drought, Lake Tahoe remains to be nonetheless spectacular and exquisite. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, it is a terrific place for mountain climbing and boating in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.
WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Tenting – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfortable up for a number of nights underneath the celebs. You gained’t be disenchanted.
20. Wherever in Montana
Lots has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, nevertheless it’s all mistaken. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s probably the most loopy stunning 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 might be Montana. I simply find it irresistible.
WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Positioned in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is house to pleasant workers. They manage every kind of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s straightforward 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 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 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! Make sure 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 outdated Victorian mansion. The beds have thick mattresses, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, there’s free espresso and tea every day, they usually even host a free joyful hour every week!
For extra journey recommendations on Washington D.C., listed below are another articles I’ve written:
22. Cape Cod
I spent plenty of summers on the Cape because it’s the place New Englanders escape for the summer time. You’ll discover loads of small seashore cities alongside the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being 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 really like Boston and cherish my visits house. Boston rocks (Go Pink Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, straightforward to get round, and full of 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 among the finest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. Make sure to eat at Zaftigs for the perfect brunch within the metropolis! It’s depraved!
WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON: HI Boston – This spacious and clear hostel is only a quick stroll from just about the whole lot within the metropolis. They’ve female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and several other chill widespread 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 way more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and lodges on the well-known Strip. There’s unbelievable mountain climbing close by at Pink Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and plenty of concert events 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 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, it is a social hostel that hosts every kind of occasions (equivalent to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s an important place to attach with different vacationers.
For extra journey recommendations on Las Vegas, these articles may help:
25. Portland
Portland, Oregon is unbelievable. I’d transfer there if it had an even 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 the most effective hostels on this planet, this centrally-located HI hostel affords free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an out of doors courtyard with a firepit, common stay music, and way more.
For extra journey recommendations on Portland, learn this put up on town.
26. Seattle
Residence to a little bit enterprise referred to 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 long-lasting Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes every kind of actions so it’s straightforward to satisfy individuals. Additionally they supply free breakfast and each day occasions. It’s one among 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 throughout 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’ll be able to expertise a style of the outdated frontier days. It’s additionally conveniently situated close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Nation Inn – This kitschy resort is among the least expensive locations on the town. Positioned proper downtown, they’ve a mini playing corridor on-site, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. It’s nothing fancy nevertheless it gained’t break the financial institution both.
28. Kansas Metropolis
I actually cherished this metropolis, which options among the world’s finest 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 motive to come back again.
WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – With a health heart, pool, and an honest breakfast unfold, this three-star resort 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 biggest metropolis in Kentucky. I used to be stunned at how a lot I appreciated it and the way a lot there was to do right here. There’s a longtime theatre scene, a handful of museums and galleries, tons of scrumptious locations to eat (it’s a strong foodie metropolis), and all of the bourbon you’ll be able to 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 of a fly-over metropolis and was skipped by most individuals. It’s undoubtedly not now.
WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – Whereas it might be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is inexpensive, 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 stuffed with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a number of historical past, and all of the southern appeal you’d ever want. It’s stunning, 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 among 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 exterior of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town appeal. The town is filled with historical past (there was a serious Civil Battle battle right here), a historic predominant avenue, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t anticipate a lot and town actually stunned me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.
WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Resort – This upscale property includes a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. In the event you don’t need to splash out, verify Reserving.com for different choices.
The United States is full of 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 remember to flip off the highways, head to the small cities, and uncover some favorites of your individual. 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 retailers, and pleasant individuals!
For extra journey recommendations on touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts:
Ebook Your Journey: Logistical Ideas and Tips
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