From sea to shining sea, the US 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 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 loads of time and doesn’t even have in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. Briefly, I’ve seen loads of this nation.
And there’s a lot price seeing.
Up 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 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 slender down this record!)
In no specific order, right here’s my detailed record of the perfect locations to go to within the USA:
(Notice: This record relies solely on the place I personally have been. There are much more breathtaking locations I haven’t explored but, which is why they will not be on this record. 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 remains to be residence to some killer meals and a vibrant blues music scene. Moreover, there’s Graceland (Elvis’s residence) for followers of the King, a giant waterfront for strolling, and the outstanding, detailed, and shifting Museum of Civil Rights (it’s large, so don’t rush it!). I loved the town greater than I anticipated and was dissatisfied 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 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 energetic honky-tonks and stay music, funky home bars on Rainey Road, superb mountain climbing and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.
Due to all the pieces from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Entire Meals retailer with the unimaginable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat effectively — every time I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas gives a youthful vigor to the 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 situated 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 tips about Austin, take a look at these posts:
3. New Orleans
New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some arduous 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, stay jazz music, road performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived effectively right here within the Massive Straightforward. 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. All the pieces a price range traveler wants!
For extra journey tips about touring New Orleans, take a look at my recommended itinerary on easy methods to spend your time there!
4. Asheville
Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: filled with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I favored the realm so much, together with its proximity to some fantastic and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has loads of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and you should definitely take a look at 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 residence within the US and as soon as residence to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of the town. (When you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, when you haven’t, it’s 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 enjoyable. There’s free parking, free Wi-Fi, and loads of close by eating places and cafes.
5. The Pacific Coastal Drive
The drive up the Pacific Coast is taken into account one of the vital 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 unimaginable: 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 often to cease, hike, and admire the view. I particularly favored Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Mendocino, California.
6. Redwood Nationwide Park
Alongside the Pacific Coast is Redwood Nationwide Park, a big expanse of large redwood bushes full of 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 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 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 gorgeous, nonetheless lake through which to admire these mountains and huge 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 hire) a tent and comfy up for a couple of nights below the celebrities. You gained’t be dissatisfied.
8. Denver
Denver has a mixture of outside ruggedness and big-city dwelling. It has an enormous craft beer scene (you should definitely 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 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 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 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 canines), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (you should definitely 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, comfortable vibe emanating by way of the town. Benefit from it.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: HI Chicago – A spacious, clear hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and an ideal location. The beds are comfortable and the frequent space is large so it’s simple to fulfill individuals.
For extra journey tips about Chicago, take a look at these posts:
10. New York Metropolis
The town that by no means sleeps. ‘Nuff stated. I imply, there’s a motive I moved right here — after which moved again once more after dwelling in Texas. You’ll be able to’t go mistaken right here. New York sells itself and there’s nothing I can say right here. I do know you already wish 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 fulfill individuals right here, they’ve a chill outside patio, and the kitchen is large so you may prepare dinner extra meals and save your price range.
For journey tips about 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 beneficial as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century houses, constructed by remoted plantation house owners 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 contains 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, take a look at this put up on my go to there.
12. Savannah
Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil Struggle, allegedly as a result of Normal Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–coated bushes, giant and welcoming parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a superb 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 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 measurement, improbable depth, crimson 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 hire) a tent and comfy up for a couple of nights below the celebrities. 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, somewhat bit tech, Nashville is without doubt one of 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 loads 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 comfortable individuals, and the optimistic 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 concerning the state’s historical past, however 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 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, 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 the town and go mountain climbing amid large bushes (there are many half-day guided excursions you may take). San Francisco has a lot to try this you want not less than 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 occasions per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous frequent room so it’s simple to fulfill individuals and has a really enjoyable, social ambiance.
For extra journey tips about 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 large (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra snug than a budget ones you’ll discover on the get together hostels.
For extra journey tips about 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 mountain climbing, days on the seashore, or working. And they’re all the time comfortable to indicate individuals 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 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 may 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 may learn this put up.
19. Lake Tahoe
Although the water degree of the lake, in addition to the natural world round it, is unfortunately depleted because of the California drought, Lake Tahoe remains to be nonetheless spectacular and delightful. 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 hire) a tent and comfy up for a couple of nights below the celebrities. You gained’t be dissatisfied.
20. Wherever in Montana
Quite a bit has been written about how gorgeous 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, 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 – Situated in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is residence to pleasant employees. They arrange all types of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s simple to hang around and meet individuals.
21. Washington D.C.
The capital of the US is a vibrant, worldwide metropolis, and that’s what I like about it. It’s second solely to NYC in variety of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide help organizations and embassies). You hear one million accents on this city! Throw within the free Smithsonian museums, 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 whilst you’re right here!
WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON: Highroad Hostel – Providing pod-style bunks, this cool hostel is situated in an previous Victorian mansion. The beds have thick mattresses, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, there’s free espresso and tea every day, and so they even host a free comfortable hour every week!
For extra journey tips about Washington D.C., listed here are another articles I’ve written:
22. Cape Cod
I spent loads 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). When 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 calming 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 residence. Boston rocks (Go Pink Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, simple to get round, and full of superior and dependable individuals. It’s residence 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. 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 all the pieces 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 tips about 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 far more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and lodges 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 many live shows and reveals.
Get off the Strip, discover the actual 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 Road, this can be a social hostel that hosts all types of occasions (comparable to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s an ideal place to attach with different vacationers.
For extra journey tips about Las Vegas, these articles might help:
25. Portland
Portland, Oregon is unimaginable. 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, enjoyable 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 the earth, this centrally-located HI hostel provides free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common stay music, and far more.
For extra journey tips about Portland, learn this put up on the town.
26. Seattle
Dwelling to somewhat 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 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 long-lasting Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes all types of actions so it’s simple to fulfill individuals. Additionally they provide free breakfast and each day occasions. It’s one in every of 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 Outdated 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 situated close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.
WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Nation Inn – This kitschy resort 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 gained’t break the financial institution both.
28. Kansas Metropolis
I actually liked this metropolis, which options among the world’s greatest 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 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 a good breakfast unfold, this three-star resort 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 biggest 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 strong foodie metropolis), and all of the bourbon you may 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. Up 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 reasonably priced, 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 energetic metropolis filled with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a number of historical past, and all of the southern allure 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. (When 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 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 filled with historical past (there was a serious Civil Struggle battle right here), a historic fundamental 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 right two-night vacation spot.
WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Lodge – This upscale property contains a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. When you don’t wish to splash out, test Reserving.com for different choices.
The US is full of too many “must-sees” locations to go to to record in a single weblog put up. In any case, the nation is residence to over 329 million individuals and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.
Simply you should definitely flip off the highways, head to the small cities, and uncover some favorites of your personal. The most effective of the USA is all the time away from the key highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky retailers, and pleasant individuals!
For extra journey tips about touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts:
Guide Your Journey: Logistical Ideas and Tips
Guide Your Flight
Discover a low cost flight by utilizing Skyscanner. It’s my favourite search engine as a result of it searches web sites and airways across the globe so that you all the time know no stone is being left unturned.
Guide Your Lodging
You’ll be able to guide your hostel with Hostelworld. If you wish to keep someplace aside from a hostel, use Reserving.com because it constantly returns the most affordable charges for guesthouses and lodges.
Don’t Neglect Journey Insurance coverage
Journey insurance coverage will defend you towards sickness, damage, theft, and cancellations. It’s complete safety in case something goes mistaken. I by no means go on a visit with out it as I’ve had to make use of it many occasions previously. My favourite firms that supply the perfect service and worth are:
Wish to Journey for Free?
Journey bank cards will let you earn factors that may be redeemed without cost flights and lodging — all with none additional spending. Try my information to selecting the correct card and my present favorites to get began and see the newest greatest offers.
Want a Rental Automotive?
Uncover Automobiles is a budget-friendly worldwide automobile rental web site. Irrespective of the place you’re headed, they’ll have the ability to discover the perfect — and least expensive — rental on your journey!
Want Assist Discovering Actions for Your Journey?
Get Your Information is a large on-line market the place yow will discover cool strolling excursions, enjoyable excursions, skip-the-line tickets, non-public guides, and extra.
Able to Guide Your Journey?
Try my useful resource web page for the perfect firms to make use of once you journey. I record all those I take advantage of after I journey. They’re the perfect in school and you may’t go mistaken utilizing them in your journey.
