Photo of Miami skyline with a US flag in the right corner and a causeway built over the water. Miami is easily one of the best weekend getaways in the USA!

15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA

Looking to get away for a weekend? Well, you’re in luck: there are so many incredible weekend getaways in the USA!

The more we travel in our home country, the more we appreciate how its enormous size and incredible diversity mean that city breaks in the United States can cover just about any interest.

Want to lay out on one of the best urban beaches in the world, drink craft beer, attend an unforgettable festival, go hiking, hit a casino, or simply experience some of the most iconic tourist sites in the world in quick succession?

2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Fanieul Hall

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Or, maybe you want to dig into a unique and delicious food scene, learn a bit of American history, or engross yourself in a walkable area and leave driving behind for your whole weekend trip?

No matter what you like to do, there’s an American city (or six) for that.

Here are 15 of the best cities for weekend getaways in the USA.

Table of Contents

Southern Weekend Getaways in the USA

Western weekend getaways in the usa, eastern weekend getaways in the usa, central weekend getaways in the usa.

Top of the Rock or Empire State Building: Photo of Girl in a Dress at Top of the Rock

New Orleans

It’s often said that there’s nowhere like New Orleans–and that is completely true.

Spending a weekend in New Orleans ( or even a single day ) means lots of jazz, lots of delicious food (gumbo, beignets, po’ boys, muffulettas, and more–oh my!), and lots of good times.

Be sure to make time for a ghost tour to take a look at the more mystical part of the city (even if you’re not the superstitious type, I promise a ghost tour is worth it in NOLA!), and a bayou tour to check out southern Louisiana’s incredible landscape.

And, while it’s easy to have nothing but good times in New Orleans, you can (and arguably should) add more depth to your trip as well: consider a day trip out to somewhere like the Whitney Plantation to learn a bit about NOLA’s dark past, or even a Katrina-themed tour discussing the serious impacts of the 2005 hurricane.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

  • Best Western Plus French Quarter Landmark Hotel : The hotel itself is beautiful in that classic New Orleans way, and the (included) breakfast is varied and tasty. Best of all, this hotel is situated right on the edge of the French Quarter, meaning that all of the French Quarter and some areas beyond are within easy walking distance.
  • Omni Royal Orleans Hotel : Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this beautiful hotel is known for its gorgeous building, attentive service, and lovely ambiance–plus its ghosts. Yeah, that attentive service? It just may come in the form of the ghost maid who likes to tuck guests in at night!

Romantic Getaways in USA: Jackson Square New Orleans

If you’re hoping to soak up some fun in the sun during your USA weekend getaway, look no further than Miami.

South Beach is often considered one of the best urban beaches on the planet, and we’d have to agree! 

Don’t limit yourself just to the beach, though: be sure to explore Miami Beach’s impressive Art Deco architecture, eat your way through Little Havana, admire street art in Wynwood, and check out the views from Biscayne Bay.

For those who want to experience some unique nature in south Florida during their trip, consider also planning a trip out to the Everglades–or if you have a few extra days, road-tripping your way all the way to Key West , the southernmost point in the USA!

Where to Stay in Miami

  • Hotel Impala : We love staying here! The room was clean, the shower divine, the customer service lovely, and–most importantly–the location on Collins Ave. was absolutely  perfect.  Located in the heart of the Art Deco district and a five-minute walk from South Beach while still offering a quiet place to sleep at night, Hotel Impala had a location you just can’t beat in Miami Beach.
  • The Marlin Hotel : This hotel offers the chance to stay in one of Miami Beach’s historic art deco buildings! Boasting a fantastic location on Collins Avenue, impeccable customer service, incredible reviews, and spacious suites, the Marlin Hotel is the perfect hotel for those looking for a luxury experience while also seeing a side of Miami Beach’s Art Deco history that not every visitor to the city gets to.

Kate in a pink dress standing in front of a blue art deco lifeguard stand on South Beach in Miami Beach.

Dripping with Spanish moss and home to one of the most stunningly beautiful historic centers of any city in the United States, Savannah is the perfect place to head for a weekend trip : not too big, not too small, and positively packed with some of the best southern food you could ever hope to find.

Come here to wander through all 22 of Savannah’s remaining town squares, tour a house museum or two, pay a visit to Forsyth Park, and to wander along gorgeous Jones Street.

Shoppers will love all the boutiques on Broughton Street, River Street, and in City Market, and those looking to indulge their taste buds will find limitless incredible food in Savannah , from classic southern meals at the Olde Pink House to tasty ice cream at Leopold’s.

If you’re a former Girl Scout like me, or just interested in their history, be sure to also pay a visit to the home of the organization’s founder, Juliette Gordon Low.

Where to Stay in Savannah

  • The Marshall House : Featuring a popular included breakfast, a fantastic location in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and phenomenal reviews, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Marshall House!
  • Foley House Inn : Easily my favorite hotel that I’ve stayed in while in Savannah, the Foley House Inn is absolutely beautiful inside and out, and has a perfect location right on Chippewa Square.

The Best Things to Do in Savannah: Fountain in Square

Of all of the weekend getaways in the USA covered here, Asheville is one of the best options for a group divided on whether to visit a city or the great outdoors.

Home to an epic craft beer scene, the incredible Biltmore Estate, plenty of street art, and delicious food options, there’s no doubt that Asheville appeals to the city lovers among us.

Its location right next door to the Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, however, make it a fabulous US weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well, and there are plenty of easy hikes near Asheville that allow travelers of all skill levels to enjoy the beautiful mountain setting.

No matter what your interests are, try to make time during your trip to Asheville to drive a small piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway–especially if you’re visiting in the fall and can enjoy the changing colors. Often considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States, it’s a sight not to be missed.

Where to Stay in Asheville

  • Cedar Crest Inn: This pink 1891 mansion house is a perfect place to base yourself in Asheville. Packed with historical details and stunning architecture you can imagine it as a mini Biltmore.
  • The Applewood Manor : Located within walking distance of downtown via a greenbelt trail, The Applewood Manor feels like it’s in a peaceful, quiet location–but it’s still in a perfect location to make the most of Asheville.

kate storm in a blue dress in front of the biltmore house asheville north carolina

Home to country music, hot chicken, street art, and plenty of barbecue, there’s no doubt that Nashville, Tennessee is an excellent place to let the good times roll on your weekend away.

While Nashville is extremely popular as a bachelorette party destination and for other girls’ getaways, large groups are far from the only types of travelers who will enjoy a weekend in Music City, USA.

The best places to visit in Nashville include visiting the Grand Ole Opry (both for the show and for the backstage tour!), checking out the Johnny Cash Museum, seeing the Country Music Hall of Fame, and exploring Gulch, the street art neighborhood home to, among many other things, the #instagramfamous Nashville wings.

Be sure to save some time to enjoy the city’s famous nightlife when exploring the best things to do in Nashville . Its tasty food is also an important ingredient on any Nashville bucket list –be sure to try the hot chicken at least once, but be aware of your heat tolerance before ordering!

Where to Stay in Nashville

  • Hutton Hotel: Book into this stylish hotel for your romantic trip, relax on the hotel balcony, or stroll 10 minutes to Music Row.
  • Virgin Hotels: Part of the Virgin Group and with all the luxury details you might expect, with plenty of red and white details.

Skyline of Nashville Tennessee at sunset overlooking the river, one of the most romantic getaways in the United States

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south: fantastic southern food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, lots of history to uncover–but it absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

Be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Plantation, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Even for non-military-history buffs like us, these sights can still be an interesting way to spend some time!

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach!

Where to Stay in Charleston

  • Market Pavillion Hotel : This hotel is a stunning choice in the heart of the historical district. Rooms feature four poster beds and charming classic decor, but the hotel amenities are really special with a mosaic pool and even its own Executive Pastry Chef whipping up delicious pastries for breakfast.
  • French Quarter Inn : Another fabulous historical hotel is this one in the french quarter overlooking Charleston City Market. You are welcomed with champagne on arrival, there is also a port wine and cheese reception and freshly baked cookies with milk are served every evening. The perfect treats for your trip! Rooms are vintage inspired and really beautiful. This is the loveliest spot in Charleston.

Rainbow Row in as seen during 3 days in Charleston SC

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the most popular west coast weekend getaways in the USA.

A weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and  check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods? Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside? Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Where to Stay in Seattle

  • Gaslight Inn : Located on Capitol Hill this historic building is a great option for Seattle. Recognized as a historic landmark and beautifully preserved but with all the modern luxuries.
  • MarQueen Hotel: Another historic hotel, built in 1918 in the Queen Anne neighborhood. Rooms all have hardwood floors and period features, as well as huge beds perfect for your romantic trip.

Seattle Waterfront with space needle visible through the ferris wheel

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw. 

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your list of things to do in Portland !

Where to Stay in Portland

  • Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : This historic hotel offers a hot tub, steam room, full-service spa, and other luxurious amenities that will truly make your vacation to Portland one to remember!
  • Portland Harbor Hotel: Located on Portland Waterfront is this luxury and stylish hotel. With beautifully designed rooms and a great restaurant, you are also well located to explore more of Portland.

Photo of steal sign stating "portland oregon" in front of a blue sky, a must-see during 3 days in portland or

Possibly the most iconic of all these weekend getaways in the USA, Las Vegas is a prime destination for short trips.

First-time visitors will certainly want to hit the Strip, even if only to check out the hotels, fountains, malls, and generally see what all the fuss is about–but there’s more to Vegas than the Strip (if you want there to be, that is).

Whether you want to hit the casinos to gamble and soak in some shows, check out Las Vega’s interesting (and far less touristed) downtown area, or get out and experience the fantastic natural highlights of the Southwest, Las Vegas has something to offer.

While the more-famous southern rim of the Grand Canyon is really too far away from Las Vegas to make a practical day trip, options like Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock Canyon, and the Hoover Dam are all possibilities.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

  • The Venetian: As one of the most iconic hotels on the Las Vegas strip this is a fabulous choice for your romantic trip. Everything about this resort is luxurious and huge, from the 1.2-acre pool deck to the in house shopping mall. Book a suite and feel like a real star.
  • Bellagio: Fans of the Ocean franchise will know this hotel and its fountains, although almost any Las Vegas fans know the fountain show of the Bellagio! Stay in this famous hotel for the ultimate treat.

Welcome to Las Vegas sign, one of the most popular weekend getaways in the USA

San Francisco

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of best USA weekend getaways–and with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco: the Muir Woods are an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

  • Petit Auberge: This adorable hotel in Nob Hill is the perfect place to base yourself for a romantic trip. Styled like a French Auberge with cozy furnishings and fireplaces in the rooms, opening onto pretty terraces, the hotel also has private parking. Essential in the city.
  • Beacon Grand: Opened in 1928 as a hotel for the creators of San Francisco society and recently reopened after restoration preserving architectural details and artisan crafts. Stay in a stunning piece of history and feel like a star.

Man standing in front of enormous Redwood trees with a sunflare in the top left corner of the photo

New York City

How much of New York can you see on just a USA weekend getaway? Enough that you’ll want to come back immediately.

New York certainly can’t be “done” in a weekend–nor can it be done in a lifetime–but the great thing about New York City is that no matter who you are or what your interests are, whether you want to track down iconic spots, explore the best food in New York , see a show (or three), or discover offbeat NYC , you can find something to captivate you.

For tourists hoping for the classic NYC experience like we were on our first few visits, a weekend in New York is certainly long enough to see all those sights we’ve seen in movies and shows throughout our lives!

Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, Times Square, the Public Library, a Broadway show or two, a visit to Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge–in a weekend, you can see all of that and more.

If you’re into museums, we also recommend hitting just one (no more–too much else to do!) during your weekend in New York: the Met, MOMA, and the Natural History Museum are all great, classic choices.

Where to Stay in New York

  • The Plaza Hotel : For a memorable place to stay, this is one of the most classic and luxurious hotels in New York. It is located right by Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some of NYC’s most popular museums.
  • The Renwick: Offering stylish residential style accommodation, this beautiful hotel is equipped with plenty of amenities and high class comfort. It is also a short walk to the Empire State Building and Bryant Park for exploring.

4 Day New York Itinerary: Manhattan Skyline with Brooklyn Bridge

Incredibly beautiful and steeped in both American history and its own distinct, modern culture, Boston is one of those cities you visit for a weekend and fall in love with for a lifetime (we would know–we’ve been crazy about it ever since our brief 3-month stint of living there!).

While you’re there, be sure to visit the picturesque North End, fashionable Back Bay, and grand Beacon Hill–three Boston neighborhoods you absolutely can’t miss.

Also consider strolling through the Boston Public Garden (one of our favorite spots in the city) and the Boston Common, visiting the penguins at New England Aquarium, meandering along the Freedom Trail, and hitting the water with a whale-watching cruise .

Bibliophiles like us shouldn’t miss the Boston Public Library (check out the Reading Room on the second floor!), nor Brattle Bookshop.

Sports fans, head directly to Fenway Park for a tour and/or a game.

Where to Stay in Boston

  • Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
  • Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

2 Days in Boston Itinerary: Beacon Hill

Washington DC

Our country’s capital city is not only the seat of our national government, it’s also a fabulous place for a weekend trip in the United States, and an incredibly popular stop for visitors from other countries who are planning a trip to the USA !

Museum-goers will be delighted with the enormous array of impressive options to choose from in Washington DC–everything from the many Smithsonian Museums, to quirky options like the International Spy Museum, to meaningful stops like the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, are available–far more than you can visit in a single weekend.

Those interested in US History and government will also have plenty to keep them busy along the National Mall, including iconic stops like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, and those looking to enjoy the city’s magnificent food scene will love taking a DC food tour .

Touring the US Capitol is always an interesting experience, and if you plan ahead, you may even be able to tour the White House!

While DC has plenty to offer year-round, there’s no doubt that cherry blossom season in Washington DC is one of the best (and most popular) times to visit.

As a bonus, many of the things to do in Washington DC , including all of the Smithsonian museums, are free to enter.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

  • CitizenM Capitol : Another stunning example of CitizenM hotels is this location in Washington DC Capitol. Expect all the style and comfort these hotels are known for.
  • Riggs Washington DC : Located in the former home of Riggs National Bank this iconic building is now home to a classic and beautiful hotel. Rooms are huge and comfortable and offer views of Penn Quarter.

Washington Monument in Washington DC framed by cherry blossoms in the foreground. Washington DC is one of the best places to visit in the United States

The self-proclaimed live music capital of the world, the home of the world-famous SXSW festival, and a city full of classic American charm with a country flair: when you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in the USA, it would be a shame to leave off the gem that is Austin, TX.

I have lived in Austin as both a child and an adult, and when I wasn’t living there, returned at least 1-2 times a year for most of my life due to family living in the area–and I never, ever get tired of visiting to tuck into a plate a delicious breakfast tacos, general TexMex, or barbecue.

During your weekend trip to Austin , head down to South Congress for fabulous food, eclectic boutiques, and incredible street art, and “Dirty Sixth” for some unforgettable nightlife (or alternatively, Rainey Street or Guadalupe Street for a different vibe).

Of course, this is the capital of Texas, so save some time during your weekend trip to Austin for some more typical cultural highlights, like visiting the Texas State Capitol and the historic (and possibly haunted) Driskill Hotel.

Plus, as Austin is surrounded by the stunning Texas Hill Country, no trip there is complete without going for at least one hike in Austin and taking a day trip to beloved nearby towns and wineries– Wimberley and Fredericksburg are both favorites.

Where to Stay in Austin

  • The Driskill: Originally built in 1886, The Driskill elegantly combines old-world charm with all of today’s modern luxuries. Dine at the award-winning on-site restaurant and enjoy the luxury of this iconic Austin landmark.
  • Hotel Saint Cecilia: This hotel set in pretty gardens is a great oasis in the city. There is an onsite pool with private bungalows, perfect for relaxing.

south congress austin texas looking toward the capitol

Visiting Chicago means it’s time for pizza, pizza, and more pizza… and okay, probably some sightseeing as well.

The sprawling city of Chicago, set right up against beautiful Lake Michigan, is certainly worthy of being included on any list of the best weekend getaways in the USA–and there are definitely plenty of fun things to do in Chicago to keep you busy while you’re there, including plenty of opportunities to explore the culture, enjoy delicious food, and even get outside in Chicago .

Come to Chicago for the weekend to snap selfies at The Bean, test your fear of heights on the famous Chicago Skydeck, pay a visit to Navy Pier, and of course, to eat a lot of deep dish.

Art lovers will find plenty of museums to devour in Chicago, including the incredible Art Institute of Chicago, and baseball fans will enjoy seeing the Cubs play a game at the famous Wrigley Field. 

For animal lovers and family travelers, head directly to Shedd Aquarium (and for family travelers, make note of the American Girl Place as well–the highlight of my first visit to Chicago long, long ago!).

Where to Stay in Chicago

  • Warwick Allerton: Situated on the Magnificent Mile in Downtown Chicago, the hotel is perfect for shopping and discovering iconic architecture.
  • Staypineapple: This oddly named hotel was designed by a world renowned architect and features stylish details such as mosaic floors and marble ceilings. No detail is spared and rooms are a testament to the thought that has gone into each part of the hotel.

Set of 4 photos, from top left: life guard stand in Miami, Acorn Street in Boston, Jones Street in Savannah, Manhattan Skyline in NYC. There's white text on a red background in the center of the image that reads "15 Epic Cities Perfect for USA Weekend Getaways"

About Kate Storm

Image of the author, Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

18 thoughts on “15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA”

Safely, Detroit is not on your list. Detroit is a fabulous city and Michiganders are very friendly and likeable.

Austin is not the country music capital — it’s the live music capital.

Well isn’t that an embarrassing typo for someone who has owned a Keep Austin Weird shirt for 20 years! Lol. I’ll get it fixed.

Very interesting

Or Madison… both have their own unique quirks that can keep a weekend enjoyable

You forgot Richmond Virginia, which would probably run circles around half of these cities on your list.

Not even close Tony!

absolutely incorrect

Umm Philly????

Will go on the list when we expand it! We love Philly. 🙂

Boise is an awesome city in the west too!

Love what you do, just curious, how do you make ends meet?

Thanks, Priti!

We’re professional travel bloggers, so this website is our job.

We earn money through the display ads that you see while scrolling and sometimes get a commission (at no cost to you) if a reader books a tour/hotel/attraction through a link on our website. 🙂

How did Dallas not make the list

Cause it sucks.

Great ideas, thank you!

Personally, I absolutely loved San Antonio what a great little weekend get away!

We love it too–one of our former homes and one of our favorite places to eat in the country!

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The top 12 places to visit in the USA in 2024

Bailey Freeman

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

best city trips usa

New York City never gets old, not with so many exciting and dynamic neighborhoods to explore © LeoPatrizi / Getty

The best thing about visiting the USA can be summed up in one word: variety. This expansive country contains an incredible number of travel experiences that would take a lifetime to complete – try wandering through the redwoods, breathing in deep gulps of sea air on glimmering beaches, or immersing yourself in the underground art scenes in some of the world's most famous cities.

Whether you're a nature lover looking for wide open spaces and snow-covered peaks or a culture fiend who can't get enough of museums and galleries, the USA has something for you. To help stem the overwhelm of options, these are our 12 favorite places to visit in the USA in 2024.

1. New York, New York

Best place for art and architecture

A city that looms large in American lore, New York continues to live up to its hype. A global center for art, fashion, finance, music and food, the Big Apple will never leave you feeling bored. Sip sunset cocktails on luxurious rooftops, mosh at local punk shows, marvel at world-class art in famous museums, or indulge in the best food you've ever had at a hole-in-the-wall favorite.

Planning tip: New York has so much to offer, but resist the urge to see it all on your first trip. Break things down by neighborhood or borough , or perhaps even by interest.

2. San Francisco, CA

Best for counter-culture

San Francisco contains multitudes, offering an urban travel experience with a distinctly West Coast flavor: take in breathtaking bay views at Golden Gate Park , wander the alleyways of the country's largest and oldest Chinese neighborhood , pay homage to LGBTIQ+ heroes in the Castro, or dive into cutting-edge art at SFMOMA and a plethora of local galleries.

3. National Mall in Washington, DC

Best for national history

Washington DC's National Mall represents the center of American political life and distills its cultural history into a two-mile strip of iconic monuments and the country's most famous museums. The mall contains ten Smithsonian museums – the National Museum of Natural History , the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Museum of American History, among others – plus landmarks including the National Gallery of Art, the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building.

A group of friends cooking seafood over a fire outdoors in Maine

4. New England

Best for forest drives

Want to meander on mountain roads beneath brilliant forest canopies and savor tasty lobster and coastal views all in the same trip? New England is the place to be. Explore the quaint villages and cranberry bogs of Cape Cod , snuggle into a cabin in the mountains of Vermont , or dive into all the seafood you can eat in Portland, Maine . And if you visit in autumn, prepare yourself for some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the country.

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Best for West Coast exploration

The Pacific Coast Highway – technically three highways linked together – connects sunny San Diego with moody Seattle , delivering epic West Coast experiences along the 1600-mile journey. Stay at kitschy motels in coastal towns, admire the cliffs of Big Sur , marvel at the tidepools in Oregon , and explore Washington's Olympic National Park .

Planning tip: Sections of the Pacific Coast Highway run along sea cliffs prone to rockslides. Always check road conditions before setting out in case of any unexpected closures.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for foodies and art lovers

There's no place in the world like New Orleans  – we promise. A vibrant cocktail of Indigenous, Caribbean, African, French and Spanish influences, this city possesses a unique magic that keeps people coming back for more. Dive into its legendary Creole cuisine, revel in its lively festivals, and immerse yourself in a world-class music scene – this is the birthplace of jazz, after all.

Planning tip: New Orleans's coastal location makes it susceptible to hurricanes from June through October, with the most active months being August and September.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for Indigenous history and culture

Nicknamed the "City Different," Santa Fe is rooted in American history while still keeping up with the times. A cultural melange of Indigenous, Spanish and Mexican influences, this city is home to numerous historical sites – like the 400-year-old Plaza – and a cutting-edge art culture that features a strong contingent of independent artists and the original Meow Wolf , a game-changing immersive art installation.

Tourists admire iconic Cloud Gate at Millenium Park during early spring Rolf_52_Shutterstock.jpg

8. Chicago, Illinois

Best metropolis for midwestern charm

Chicago contains all the hallmarks of a great American city – excellent food, multicultural neighborhoods , top-tier museums – with a distinctly midwestern twist. Spend your days lounging next to the ocean-like Lake Michigan, catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field , or have an evening of laughs at Second City , the launchpad for greats like Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey.

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Best for big peaks and winter sports

If you want to see the quintessential mountains of the American West, the Rockies in Colorado should be your first stop. Rocky Mountains National Park is a logical starting point, but in truth, there are so many different ways to access this dynamic mountain range – hit the slopes in ski hubs like Vail , Aspen and Telluride, drive the scenic byways of the San Juan range, or pitch camp in one of the state's numerous national forests.

Planning tip: Unless you're from somewhere with similar elevation, you might feel the effects of altitude throughout the Rockies; stay extremely hydrated, take your time on hikes, and skip the alcohol.

10. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina and Virginia

Best for east coast mountains

While the Rockies tend to get a lot of press – for good reason – the USA's oldest mountain range is a must-see. The Blue Ridge Mountains make up the southern third of the Appalachian mountain chain, and the lush forests wrapped around these rolling hills make for incredible blue-green vistas from the region's many ridges and balds. Dive into the numerous day hikes, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway , or hike a section of the storied Appalachian Trail .

Man kayaking at a mangrove forest in the Everglades

11. The Everglades, Florida

Best for wildlife watchers

The importance of the Everglades can't be overstated – this sprawling wetland is an International Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a national park, thanks to the diverse profusion of flora and fauna that live here. Paddle through the coastal estuaries and camp among mangroves, or whiz through the numerous waterways via airboat. All the while, keep your eyes peeled for wading birds, manatees, and of course, alligators and crocodiles.

Planning tip: For the best experience, come prepared for the elements: sunscreen and bug spray are essentials.

12. Southwestern Utah

Best for geology lovers

If you want to visit one place in the US that sums up the grandiosity of its natural history, southwestern Utah is the place to go. Home to five of the country's most spectacular national parks, Red Rock Country puts the region's geological past on display with a dazzling amount of artistic flair. Hike the peaks and valleys of Zion and Bryce Canyon , or marvel at the crimson, ochre and amber palette in the cliffs and canyons of Capitol Reef and Canyonlands . And if you want a special treat, watch the sun rise over the sandstone masterpieces at Arches .

Planning tip: Large swaths of this region are extremely remote and sometimes lack cell service, both on the road and on the trail. Always share your plans with others and bring plenty of water in case of emergencies.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated February 2024

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Colorado

The best places to visit in the USA for every month of 2023

We've named the 12 best places to visit in the USA with one amazing destination for every month of the year

Scott Snowden

Whether you live in the US or on the other side of the world, you’ve got to admit that the US is an amazing place to travel. But the US is a huge, huge country, and an experience on one end is going to be incredibly different to another. Here, you’ve got glamorous resorts, hikes through national parks, wide open beaches and tightly packed cities (and much, much more). 

Plus, you’ve got the weather. A holiday in Alaska is going to be very different to Las Vegas, that’s for sure, so you might want to plan accordingly. In fact, our biggest tip is to choose where you’re going in the US based on a particular time of year - so we’ve made life easy for you. We’ve rounded up the best places to go in the US in 2023, for every month of the year. Now that is how you do a trip. Happy holidays!

RECOMMENDED: 🏞️ The best national parks in the US 🎢 The best amusement parks in the US 🏨 The best all-inclusive resorts in the US 🏖️ The best beaches in the US 😎 The best family vacations in the US

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Best places to visit in the USA, by month

January: Colorado

1.  January: Colorado

It’s no secret that Colorado ski resorts are among the country’s best, but that's not all this state has to offer outdoor enthusiasts in the winter. Try your hand at heli-skiing (that's dropping from a helicopter rather than a ski lift) in the backcountry at Telluride , bask in natural hot springs after your ride down the mountain in Steamboat Springs , or embrace winter camping and dog sledding at the refurbished mine town of  Dunton Hot Springs,  where you'll find an Old West saloon, the opportunity to ice climb and, of course, more hot springs. 

February: Yellowstone National Park

2.  February: Yellowstone National Park

This world-famous Wyoming National Park  is always spectacular, and while it’s understandably mainly visited in warmer months, if you can get there in February you’ll be in for a real treat, with the whole place transformed into an other-worldly wintery wilderness. Animals are much easier to spot in the snow, with the most notable example being bison, complete with their shaggy winter coats, and the steam from the geysers is far more pronounced.

March: Hawaii

3.  March: Hawaii

Hawaii enjoys beautiful weather and comfortable temperatures year-round, with thermometers reliably staying above 79°F and below 88°F, but March and April are particularly pleasant times to visit, slipping in between the spring and summer vacation seasons. From the massive volcanoes on the Big Island (Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa and Kilauea), and the Na Pali cliffs of Kauai , to the pristine beaches of Oahu —every part of the state is stunning. But if you have to pick just one spot to see while you're there, we recommend heading to the very top of Maui, where the Haleakalā crater's huge caldera's landscape is otherworldly.

April: Washington DC

4.  April: Washington DC

Despite being such a historic city, Washington DC keeps evolving—even now, new museums are breaking ground. There's one more big reason to head to D.C. this spring, too: cherry blossom season. While Japan’s cherry blossom season seems to grab most of the world’s attention, Washington D.C. has a pretty good one too, which typically spans late March into early April. The best place to see it is the Tidal Basin, where over 3,000 trees are transformed with radiant blooms. And you can still get your obligatory selfie with the White House/Lincoln Memorial/National Mall while you're in town. 

May: The Mighty Five

5.  May: The Mighty Five

No idea what The Mighty Five is? We're talking about Utah 's wild landscape, which is connected by a series of five national parks— Zion , Bryce Canyon , Capitol Reef , Canyonlands , and Arches.  There's also the iconic  Monument Valley, which is located in the nearby Navajo nation; you've seen it on the silver screen in almost every John Wayne western and it hasn't changed an iota since. In all five destinations, notice massive sandstone formations, twisty slot canyons and dark skies bursting with stars that up the beauty ante. 

June: The West Coast

6.  June: The West Coast

Sound the road trip klaxon!  California  and the Pacific Northwest are calling. Head out in June to avoid the July 4th madness, when roads in the U.S. will be crammed with long weekenders on their way to family barbecues and baseball games, and take the whole month to discover the best of the West Coast. Whether you want to catch some rays in  San Diego , forest bathe in  Oregon , tour  Seattle ’s street art or simply make the most of  Vancouver 's least rainy month of the year, this slice of North America is as diverse as its days are long.

July: Alaska

7.  July: Alaska

July is a wonderful month to spot caribou, wolves and golden eagles in Denali National Park , as well as grizzly bears, who are busy hunting salmon in order to fatten up before hibernation. They also nibble on the season’s abundant berries—blueberries are particularly fat and juicy in Alaska—and you can taste them too on almost any hike and around the stunning Glacier Bay National Park .

August: Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island

8.  August: Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island

At the far reaches of the northeast coastline of America is Acadia National Park , which covers much of Mount Desert Island (beautiful Bar Harbor is here, too) and beyond. Crashing Atlantic Ocean waves hit rocky beaches, massive granite rock formations loom and quiet forests, lakes and ponds await you here. Once you've experienced this achingly lovely island sanctuary, there are plenty of Maine 's famed lobster roll stands waiting near town ready to feed you the state's delicious crustacean.

September: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

9.  September: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America's most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains is a place where the easygoing rhythm of the South combines with an outdoor lover's heaven. Hike in to see lovely waterfalls and expansive views filled with mountains and forests, fish for trout in a quiet stream (you'll need a permit) and peep at a riot of colors during the autumn foliage change. You might run into someone hiking the Appalachian Trail, too. More than 70 miles of that 2,190-mile path run through the national park.

October: New Mexico

10.  October: New Mexico

There’s a lot more to New Mexico than desert and a certain Netflix show. Every October,   Albuquerque   hosts its eye-popping International Balloon Fiesta , where you can spot hundreds of technicolor hot air balloons as they make their spectacular ascent. With seemingly endless skies and epic sunrises, it’s become the world’s largest balloon festival and the most photographed event on Earth. Also make time to visit   Santa Fe , in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains for a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and earth-colored historic adobe neighborhoods, plus a comprehensive Georgia O'Keefe Museum dedicated to her artistic legacy and American modernism.

November: Las Vegas

11.  November: Las Vegas

As the names of artists now getting residencies in Las Vegas get bigger and more relevant (like Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars), so does Sin City’s credibility as an entertainment destination. So do catch a  show  while you’re there but, since temperatures are pleasantly cool at this time of year, now is also the perfect time for exploring off-strip. Want geological beauty? Head to rouge-tinted Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area . Street art? Go downtown. Mafia stuff? Don’t miss the Mob Museum  and its in-house distillery.

December: Miami

12.  December: Miami

The Magic City is perhaps not a place you'd associate with art and culture and yet, it frequently hosts works and exhibitions from established international artists. But you don’t have to be an industry insider or even uber-rich to get in on the action: Plenty of fringe events happen outside of the main convention center at Miami Beach at the same time. Check out the public sculpture, and the many pop-ups, gallery events and installations that have led this to be dubbed "Art Week" by locals. In between, hit up South Beach for tanning and our very own Time Out Market Miami for grubbing. Welcome to Miami.

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22 Best City Breaks in the USA

best city trips usa

Are you looking for the best city breaks in America? Read our list of top US cities now to plan your next weekend getaway or short break. Explore the best cities to visit on both coasts as well as in the heartland along with recommendations for the best things to do, when to visit, and the best place to stay. You may also like our post 33 Bucket List destinations to visit in the USA . 

Prior to having kids, we were more road trip kind of people. We didn’t stay long in towns and cities but preferred to camp and hike in national parks. We visited cities mainly to fly into our preferred destinations. But boy, having kids changes everything! Now we love going on city breaks to different US cities, staying in a comfortable environment, and checking out kid-friendly attractions like zoos, museums, and parks. 

Explore all USA City Guides here

We have taken a lot of city breaks in the past few years and some of them have been to the top cities in the country. We had fun in Times Square in New York and enjoyed beach time in Los Angeles. We biked the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and went for a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk. We had a romantic dinner at Larimer Square in Denver and fell in love with the beautiful balconies of the French Quarter in New Orleans. We saw the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia and the colossal arch in St. Louis.

We have also visited stunning museums and unique cultural attractions like the Museum of Jazz in New Orleans, the Field Museum in Chicago, the Denver Art Museum, and the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. And the food! We have eaten in Chelsea Market in NYC and at the Reading Hall in Philadelphia. We slurped on the sourdough clam chowder at Pier 39 in San Francisco and ate delicious Tex Mex at the Riverwalk in San Antonio . We drank and ate for hours at the famous buffets in Las Vegas. Want to share in our fun? Check out our list of best city breaks in the USA now!

best city trips usa

Top City Breaks in the USA

The United States is lucky to have a wealth of beautiful cities with prominent landmarks, historical attractions, iconic cuisines, and friendly locals for discerning visitors. You can easily plan a trip to most of these cities over a weekend or 3 days and see most of the famous attractions. Add in budget airlines and cheap airfare, and a city break also becomes a cheap holiday option. Here is our epic list of some of our favorite cities in the country which double up as excellent city breaks:

New York City

New York City is the ultimate city break not just for domestic travelers but also for visitors from across the Atlantic. The Big Apple has everything from famous museums and vibrant nightlife to iconic eateries and beautiful parks. Start your visit in Times Square, which is the tourist heart of New York City. Take your photo on the famous red steps, be transfixed by the flashing billboards, spot the Times Square Ball, and people watch. Times Square may be touristy but you can’t visit New York without seeing this #1 attraction. 

Other popular things to see in New York include the 9/11 Memorial & One WTC Observation Deck, Empire State Building, Rockefeller Plaza, Wall Street, Statue of Liberty, and Chinatown. For art and culture fans, see the stunning collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or Guggenheim Museum or MOMA. You can also see dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals at the American Museum of Natural History or witness the country’s maritime history at the Intrepid Museum. The city’s food scene is also legendary and draws visitors from across the world.

New York has lots of things to do for outdoor lovers as well. Take a stroll through Central Park and walk over its famous bridges or paddle in the lake. Or you can walk across Brooklyn Bridge and enjoy the city views from DUMBO. If you like climbing then head over to the Vessel and climb its many staircases while enjoying the views of the Hudson River. To plan your trip to the Big Apple, read our post on 37 Best Things to do in New York City .

best city trips usa

Chicago, Illinois

Our favorite city ever! Chicago is a jewel of the Midwest. It is full of fantastic restaurants, shows, museums, and lakefront water views. While you can easily spend a week in the city without running out of things to do, the excellent public transport makes it easy to experience the best of Chicago over a long weekend as well. 

Chicago experiences all four seasons; the best times of year to visit are in late spring and early fall when the temperatures are milder. Summer and winter have more intense highs and lows but also lots of seasonal events like live music and festivals in the summer, and ice skating and holiday events in winter. In fact, Chicago in winter is a stunning panorama of dazzling holiday lights and icy Lake Michigan. 

Chicago is well known for both its museums and impressive downtown buildings, and no tourist should skip the architecture river cruise that is both entertaining and informative. An alternative is a stroll along the vibrant Chicago Riverwalk. The Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, and Shedd Aquarium are all nationally acclaimed and can each easily take up an entire day of exploration. Visiting these museums with the kids is our favorite family activity. Here’s a tip: Be sure to look into student and reciprocal museum membership discounts before you go!

Another essential attraction in Chicago is the Millenium Park. While the famous Cloud Gate sculpture – better-known as the “Bean” – is the main attraction here, other places of interest including the Crown Fountains, Lurie Garden, and concerts in the Pritzker pavilion are equally popular. Other things to see in Chicago include the Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and the Magnificent Mile. To explore other Chicago essentials including Garett’s and the Frank Lloyd Wright District, read our Chicago Travel Guide: 39+ Things to do in the Windy City .

Stephanie of Explore More Clean less

best city trips usa

Las Vegas, Nevada

If you like your city break to pack a punch in the form of incredible nightlife, glamor, and glitz then Las Vegas is perfect for you. Sin City is definitely not for the faint-hearted. With its casinos, gambling in big figures, and adult revue shows, Vegas is a whole different world. But even if you don’t indulge in any of this, the neon lights of Vegas and the attractions on the Strip are enough to charm you into never leaving the Sin City. 

Our favorite thing to do in the city is to explore the Las Vegas Strip and its casinos. The casinos display flamboyant architecture, beautiful artwork and decor, sculptures, lavish themes, and more. The casinos also have many free attractions and shows to entice visitors. Some of our favorite things to see on the Strip include the musical fountains of Bellagio, the false sky and the gondolas at the Venetian, the ride up the Eiffel Tower at Paris, the view across Brooklyn Bridge at New York New York, and the flamingo habitat at the Flamingo. To see all the nearby attractions, read our Ultimate Las Vegas Bucket List .

Where other cities have urban parks and green spaces for outdoor lovers, Las Vegas offers the whole of American Southwest for your admiration. If you have less than a day, then make the day trip to Red Rock Canyon or Death Valley. If you have more time, then plan a leisurely road trip to the Grand Canyon , Zion National Park, and Antelope Canyons. There are many national parks and natural areas in the vicinity of Las Vegas, so this is a perfect vacation for adventure lovers.

best city trips usa

San Francisco, California

When it comes to the West Coast, very few cities are as popular as San Francisco. The city has attracted hippies, entrepreneurs, and innovators since the 1950s. The city’s most famous icon is the Golden Gate Bridge, considered one of the engineering marvels of the century. Taking a photo of the Gold Gate Bridge shrouded in fog from one of San Francisco’s beaches is every visitor’s dream – which is not so difficult considering that the fog is present in SF year-round. In fact, it even has it’s own twitter account and a name – Karl, the Fog.

Apart from the bridge and the fog, San Francisco is most famous for its cable cars, pretty Victorian houses, the second-largest Chinatown, and the prison – Alcatraz. To visit Alcatraz, take a cruise from Pier 33. While you are at the pier, visit the Fisherman’s Wharf area and spot the sea lions lounging on the docks. This famous waterfront area has souvenir shops, stalls selling crabs and sourdough bread, cruise ticket booths, bike shops, maritime museum, aquarium, carousel rides, and even a Ben & Jerry’s. We recommend trying the famous clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl – one of SF’s iconic dishes.

Read our San Francisco posts now to plan this part of the trip: San Francisco 3 to 5-day itinerary ideas 17 Best Things to do in San Francisco on your first visit

Other popular things to do in San Francisco include shopping in Ghirardelli Square, walking down the crooked Lombard Street, admiring the view from Twin Peaks, and checking out the art museums. San Francisco is also a perfect starting point for road trips along the coast, either up towards the redwoods in Northern California or down via Big Sur and the Pacific Coast Highway . Or you can always visit the famous Yosemite National Park. 

best city trips usa

Miami, Florida

Miami is a fantastic city break for a weekend getaway or an international vacation destination. Some of our favorite things to do when visiting Miami are hitting the beautiful white sand beaches, exploring South Beach’s vibrant Art Deco district, visiting Little Havana for Cuban coffee and pastries, shopping at Bayside Marketplace, and sampling the Caribbean cuisine of Little Haiti. The fantastic Vizcaya Museum and Gardens are worth a stroll to appreciate their beauty. For gorgeous views of the Miami skyline, take a cruise on Biscayne Bay.

Additionally, a number of side trip options can make your time in Miami even more memorable. For a laidback road trip consider driving to the nearby Florida Keys . To explore the marshes and mangroves and spot gators, manatees, and more, visit Everglades National Park. Or you can even take a ferry over to the Bahamas, for a more exotic vacation.

While planning your trip to Miami, bear in mind the hurricane season. It stretches from June to November but usually peaks in September. Also, summer in Miami is very humid and very hot. The best time to visit Miami is undoubtedly the winter as it is generally still sunny, warm and pleasant. Springtime is also an ideal time to visit because the heat and humidity are not in full blast mode yet.

If you really want to stay in the middle of the action, you cannot get more Miami than South Beach. An abundance of chain and boutique hotels can be found in this part of the city for a range of budgets. As well, the South Beach neighborhood is highly walkable with loads of restaurants, shopping, and bars for all tastes.

Rebecca of KwaFare

best city trips usa

New Orleans, Louisiana

For a charming city break with mild weather and a range of attractions, consider New Orleans! This famous city needs no introduction. Founded in 1718, New Orleans has a unique mix of French, Spanish, and African cultures. On exploring New Orleans, you will find famous streets, historic buildings, and city squares. Read our New Orleans itinerary now to plan your trip.

The buildings in the French Quarter boast of beautiful architecture, large wrap-around balconies, and central courtyards that are iconic to the city. There are museums such as The Presbytère and the Cabildo where you can learn about New Orleans’ past or the New Orleans Jazz Museum which is dedicated to the genre’s origin in the city. This is also a great area to try out some of New Orleans specialty dishes like a po’ boy sandwich followed by the famous beignets at Cafe du Monde. And, of course, you should go to a jazz club on Frenchmen Street.

After exploring the French Quarter, you should visit the adjacent Treme neighborhood. Also known for its music and food, Treme – specifically Congo Square – is the birthplace of jazz in New Orleans. As much as it is famous for music and architecture, NOLA is also famous for its elaborate, above-ground cemeteries. Saint Louis Cemetery No.1 is the most famous and worth a visit as it is quite unique.

If you still have time, there are also many other things to do near New Orleans including a day trip to visit old plantation houses or an airboat tour to explore the swamps. The best time to visit New Orleans is from December to May when the weather is great and many events are happening throughout the city. The summer and fall are cheaper times to visit but temperatures can be high and there is a risk of hurricanes. If you visit during the Carnival season, you will be treated to parades and festivities culminating in one big celebration on Mardi Gras Day .

Suzi at Survey Suzi

best city trips usa

Portland, Oregon

Portland is one of the best places for a city trip in the United States, in fact, it is also an amazing urban retreat in the Pacific Northwest. Spend a quick 3 days in Portland, Oregon and you’ll be able to check out the foodie scene, explore the hiking trails, and see the quirkiness of the city. 

When in Portland, one of the most popular things to do is try out all the amazing food. There are tons of restaurants and eateries ranging from thai at Pok Pok to interestingly flavored ice cream at Salt & Straw to aromatic Stumptown Coffee and much more. 

Portland is close to the Oregon coast as well as the Columbia River Gorge, making it a great place to start your hiking trip in Oregon. You can hike along the coast in Cannon Beach or see the insanely tall Multnomah Falls. You’ll definitely get an opportunity to see a lot of the greenery that the Pacific Northwest is known for!

The best time to visit Portland is in the warmer months, between May and October, the temperatures are higher and less rainy in comparison to the winter months. But honestly, Portland is great any time of the year. Some of our favorite places to stay in Portland include the Courtyard by Marriott Portland Downtown and Crowne Plaza Portland Downtown Convention Center. 

Constance at The Adventures of Panda Bear 

best city trips usa

Seattle, Washington

If you are looking for the best city break in the US, a long weekend in Seattle is highly recommended! This easy to navigate, walkable city, offers many great eats and attractions to visit even within a short timeframe. Known for its rainy days, pack your umbrella no matter when you go – or don’t, if you want to fit in with the locals! August is your best bet if your heart is set on sunny days.

The historical Pike Place is a must-do on your itinerary. In fact, it’s so tasty that you may want to add it twice! Consider a tour of the Market with a group such as Eat Seattle Tours. They will educate you on the history of Pike Place and how it came to be the landmark that it is today. The tour includes samples from several of the best restaurants and personal interactions with the market staff. Clam chowder, smoked salmon, or fresh chocolate, anyone?

The Seattle Center is just a short monorail ride across the city and offers the panoramic Space Needle views with its glass floors. It also sits right next to the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum which is filled with glass exhibits that will exceed your expectations. Head over to Pioneer Square for an Underground Tour of the original city of Seattle which lies beneath the streets and is filled with juicy secrets and comedic anecdotes. If skyline views are your weakness, Kerry Park offers them in abundance and are best seen at sunset.

If you would like to see more of what Washington has to offer beyond the city streets, rent a car for a few hours and head to Snoqualmie Falls. This picturesque mountain town is filled with sweet candy shops, a quaint train station, and of course, postcard-perfect views of the cascades from above as well as from the boardwalk at river level.

Seattle has many hotels to choose from; The State Hotel is a beautiful choice downtown. The city has something to offer every visitor, whether it is coffee, nature, restaurants or history. You’ll find it the perfect place for a city getaway!

Sierra of Free to Travel Mama

best city trips usa

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is the ultimate city break. The second-largest city in the country is famous for its movie star sightings, filming locales and studio tours, famous museums, art galleries, farmer’s markets, and of course the famous Southern California beaches. LA’s culinary scene is also world-class and the city continues to attract all kinds of travelers. The city experiences mild weather which makes it a year-round destination. See our Los Angeles itinerary post to plan your LA trip. 

Start your visit at the Hollywood Walk of Fame and spot your favorite movie stars on the pavement. See the Kodak Theatre and Chinese Theatre. Take a picture with the Hollywood sign. See Madame Tussauds and take a photograph with the street buskers. Take a tour of the movie studios and take a look behind the scenes. See the beautiful Walt Disney Concert Hall designed by Frank Gehry. 

Take a stroll around beautiful Griffith Park and visit the Griffith Observatory. The Observatory has many interesting exhibits and is housed in a beautiful building. You will also see beautiful views of Los Angeles from the courtyard of the observatory. Visit the Museum Row on Miracle Mile and step inside whichever you fancy. The Broad and LACMA are two of our favorites. Other things to do in Los Angeles include the Getty Center and Villa, Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Musso & Frank Grill, etc. 

Almost as famous as it’s attractions, are Los Angeles many day trips. Take your car out on a spin to Malibu, Laguna Beach, Santa Barbara, or the Santa Ynez Valley wineries. Or head out to the desert and stay in a spa resort at Palm Springs. For a quirky destination, visit the nearby town of Ojai. In the winter, ski on the slopes of Big Bear. 

To spend a day on the water, take a ferry to Catalina Island or Balboa Island. For balloon rides, wineries, and other attractions consider a trip to Temecula Valley. If theme parks are your thing, then spend the day at Disney parks in Anaheim or visit Universal Studios. Los Angeles also makes the perfect start for a stunning California road trip . 

best city trips usa

Denver, Colorado

Denver is one of the most underrated cities in the country. It is full of culture, good food, and has excellent views of the Rockies. You can go hiking among the wildflowers in the summer and go skiing in winter – Denver makes a great year-round tourist destination. Denver also has a great nightlife scene, making it popular with visitors of all ages. 

Start your visit at the Denver Art Museum. Housed in a beautiful, contemporary building, the museum has a vast collection of modern and contemporary, Native American, and New World art. Then see beautiful downtown buildings such as the Denver Public Library and the Colorado State Capitol before taking a walk along the 16th Street Mall. This pedestrian mall is the place to be in Denver. It’s beautifully landscaped and lined with fashion brands, hip restaurants, pubs, and souvenir shops. This is also the best place to see the 4th of July fireworks in Denver. 

Another must while in Denver is the beautiful Union Station. This historic train station has been transformed to be the hub of Denver with food courts, boutiques, and a bar. Denver’s outdoor attractions are legendary. Watch a concert at the famous Red Rock amphitheater or go paddleboarding in the city’s parks. Denver has a great biking trail while the Denver Botanic Gardens are beautiful year-round. And of course, you need to see the Denver Broncos play at the Sports Authority Field. Read our post on Best Things to do in Denver for more attractions.

best city trips usa

Washington DC

Washington D.C. is one of the best city breaks in the United States. It is brimming with history, museums, culture, and a robust restaurant scene. Even if you have been to DC before, it is possible to have a completely different trip on your next visit because of the sheer amount of things to do.

While on a trip to DC, you must see the monuments at the National Mall, the White House, the US Capitol building, the free Smithsonian museums, and the Washington National Cathedral. You can also take a stroll through charming Georgetown, visit George Washington’s home at Mt. Vernon, catch a sporting event, or hang out at a number of different festivals that occur in the city throughout the year. 

Foodies will love the international food scene in D.C. You can find almost any type of cuisine and there is no shortage of interesting cafes, restaurants, and bars. D.C. also has a thriving food truck culture! You will find all kinds parked near the National Mall on the weekends.

The best time to visit DC is in the spring. Around late March/early April the city turns pink with cherry blossoms and pink magnolias. Those blooms are followed by blooming redbuds, dogwoods, and azaleas. The cherry blossoms are world-famous and when you see the Tidal Basin at peak bloom , you will see why!

Staying near the DC Waterfront is a good central option to see most of the main attractions. If you want a bit more character try staying in Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria. If you want to save some money, try staying in the Rosslyn area of Virginia and take the metro into the city.

Lindsey at Abroad Wife

best city trips usa

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of the most historic cities in the U.S., and it’s brimming with interesting sights and attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an outdoors lover, or a luxury traveler, you’ll find plenty to love about Beantown. 

One of the top things to do in Boston is walking the Freedom Trail, which will take you to many of the city’s most famous sights and introduce you to the area’s history. To get a totally different perspective, ride to the top of the Prudential Tower and take in the 360-degree views. Make some time for people-watching at the Boston Common and window shopping on Newbury Street as well, and if you’re looking for something outdoorsy, rent a kayak on the Charles River or head to Middlesex Fells for a hike.

The Boston area is made up of numerous neighborhoods and suburbs, each with its own unique identity. The North End, Back Bay, and the South End are the most popular for travelers, but hipster suburbs like Cambridge and Jamaica Plain also have a lot to offer. For the most convenience, look for accommodations near the Red or Orange lines of the MBTA (“The T”). 

Fall is hands-down the best time of year to visit Boston. You’ll avoid the sweaty heat of summer and the frigid snowstorms of winter, plus you’ll be treated to New England’s famed fall colors. For the very best leaf-peeping opportunities, time your trip for mid-October. 

Jennifer of Passions and Places

best city trips usa

Philadelphia

One American city break that often goes overlooked is Philadelphia. It’s a fantastic city with a lot to offer anyone who visits. Philly is more manageable than New York City and comes without the sticker shock of high prices. Philadelphia is a lot more fun than Washington, DC and still provides world-class museums and loads of American history. There are just so many things to do in Philadelphia , here’s where to start.

Philadelphia is full of American history. The essential sites for visitors include Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell Center, and the Betsy Ross House. You can visit Christ’s Church and sit in the same church pew that George Washington did. Philadelphia’s amazing museums display the best in art and science; most popular being The Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Franklin Institute Science Museum. Families with kids love to visit the Please Touch Museum and the Philadelphia Zoo – it’s actually the oldest zoo in the nation.

The best time to visit Philadelphia is in the spring and fall months. During the shoulder season, you have smaller crowd sizes and moderate temperatures. It’s the best of both worlds! While in Philadelphia there are three neighborhoods that you should consider staying in. They’re all in the city center and the first is Rittenhouse. It’s a posh neighborhood with high-end hotels, shopping, and restaurants. Many visitors love to stay in Old City, an area known for the historic buildings and attractions that are older than the country itself. The third area to consider is the Gayborhood/Midtown Village. It’s a trendy section of Philadelphia known for charming local shops, delicious restaurants, and coffee shops.

Derek of Robe Trotting

best city trips usa

Charleston is an incredible city along the South Carolina coast. There are so many things to do and incredible sites to see in Charleston that it’ll make your head spin! Let’s start with the top 3 things to do in Charleston. First off, head to the beach. Charleston is home to miles and miles of shoreline, so do yourself a favor and spend some time along the Ocean. We recommend Folly Beach, since there is a wonderful little town to get some fresh seafood. Which brings us to item number two: eat fresh seafood. Ask a local what is in season, and the catch of the day will make for an incredible local meal. 

Third, head to downtown Charleston. Walkthrough the streets and explore one of the city’s many parks. If you have a car, here is a bonus fourth item: the Angel Oak. Just outside Charleston is the oldest (and most beautiful) tree East of the Mississippi River. It is worth the trip!

The best time to visit Charleston is in the Spring, ideally from April to June. The weather won’t be too hot at this time, and the plants will be lush and green. We recommend staying either near downtown Charleston or in Folly Beach. We opted for the beach life and had a wonderful time – every morning was spent watching the ocean waves crash on the shore and every evening was for ocean-side strolls.

Julie of Ruhls of the Road

best city trips usa

If you’re looking for the perfect city break in the US, you absolutely cannot go wrong with sunny San Diego , California! Boasting one of the best climates in the country — with perennial sunshine and year-round good vibes — San Diego also has a lot to offer visitors and is an essential place to visit in Southern California.

San Diego is perhaps best known for its expansive beaches and it really has some of the best in the state. If you want to have a beach day, you have numerous options available to you. Head to Mission Beach for a classic Southern California vibe, complete with a beachside amusement park and wooden roller coaster. Pacific Beach is also a fantastic option for more of a local feel. If you want to feel as if you’ve stepped back in time to the 1970s, then make sure to head to Ocean Beach, the least touristy of the three and home to the beautiful Sunset Cliffs State Park.

If you’re more interested in museums and culture, then make sure to visit Balboa Park, which is filled with countless museums and is also home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. If you want to learn more about San Diego’s seafaring heritage, then make sure to head to the Maritime Museum located in the downtown area.

San Diego also has a hopping restaurant and craft beer scene, so it is a great destination for both foodies and beer connoisseurs alike. If you have more time, drive down to LA or go on an amazing Southern California road trip to Joshua Tree National Park . All in all, San Diego really has something to offer everyone and you cannot go wrong with a trip of any length to this beautiful California city.

Maggie of The World Was Here First

best city trips usa

Nashville, TN

If you are looking for a city break that is loaded with options for both day and night, plus family-friendly as well, Nashville is a great option any time of the year! 

Nashville is the country music capital of the world, so there’s no surprise that you will have endless opportunities to enjoy all things music when you visit. Even if you don’t love country music, you can’t help but get caught up in the excitement. 

Many of the famous Honky Tonk venues have live bands every night of the week. Several also hold free line dancing lessons each night, which is one of those things you have to try. Even if you are uncoordinated like me! A night at the famous Grand Ole Opry is a must-do Nashville attraction too, with concerts all year at the auditorium. You may see a future superstar before they become a household name.

Beyond the music, there are plenty of great places to eat and cultural experiences to have. Head down to the Gulch to see some of the coolest street art, including the iconic #whatliftsyou angel wings. Then grab a bite to eat at the popular Biscuit Love nearby.

If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, a short drive away you can visit one of the Plantation homes in Nashville, such as Belle Meade or the Hermitage. Here you will learn some of the darker histories of the city. For accommodation, try the Omni Nashville Hotel or stay at one of the many amazing private Airbnb rentals as we did. 

Holly of Four Around The World

best city trips usa

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine will win you over during your time there, whether you’re visiting for a week or for a weekend. With a population of more than 65,000 people, Portland somehow manages to have a small city vibe. Incredibly walkable and a foodie city at its heart, the city has a charming personality and a rich history you’ll love exploring.

One of the best things to do in Portland is to visit the six famous lighthouses that are accessible from the city center. They’re each unique in their own way. If you can’t get to all of them, the two best ones are Portland Head Lighthouse and Bug Lighthouse.

Next, explore the foodie side of the city and take advantage of the fresh and delicious seafood. The lobster in Portland is one of the best in the country, you won’t want to miss out! Take a walking foodie tour to eat your weight at some of the city’s best restaurants or jump aboard the Lucky Catch lobstering tour on Casco Bay and catch your own.

In addition to great food, Portland also has 300+ microbreweries – more than any other state! Maine Brew Bus runs great 3-hour long tours that include tastings at three spots and are a great (and responsible) way to visit the best breweries. Time permitting, take a tour of the islands on Casco Bay ferry or hang out around Portland’s beautiful waterfront. The best time to visit Portland is between June and September. Most of the attractions don’t open until the end of May when the cold weather starts to wind down.

Ioana of The World Is My Playground

best city trips usa

St. Louis, Missouri

If you are driving from the east coast to the west coast or vise versa, you will want to make sure that you pass through “the Gateway to the West.”, the city of St. Louis. St. Louis sits right on the mighty Mississippi River and, honestly, is one of the most beautiful cities to drive into.  

St. Louis is known for the iconic St. Louis Arch that sits along the Mississippi River. The 630-foot stainless steel arch is actually a part of the Gateway Arch National Park. It is also the tallest arch in the world. Did you know that you can ride an elevator to the top of the arch? At the top, there are small windows from which you have a beautiful view of the Mississippi and St. Louis. At the bottom of the Arch there is a great underground museum called the Museum of Westward Expansion with many exhibits about westward expansion and the Lewis & Clark expedition.

In addition to the famous Mississippi River, downtown St. Louis has a number of sights and is quite walkable.  St. Louis has a rich baseball history, so attending a Cardinals game is a great activity. We also enjoyed visiting the famous Anheuser Busch brewery.  They have a number of tours and a great tasting area for lounging, food and even some live music.  

Other things to do in St. Louis include visiting the Old Courthouse, exploring the grand Union Station, and enjoying a night out at Laclede’s Landing Riverfront area. We visited St. Louis during the spring, and found it to be a lovely time of year to visit because it wasn’t too hot or humid, yet we had wonderful sunshine and warm weather. As for where to stay, we found a great Airbnb in a historic part of town which enhanced our experience and made it quite an enjoyable weekend getaway.

Josh of Peanuts or Pretzels

best city trips usa

San Luis Obispo

If you’re looking for a city break in the US that’s also an excellent place to relax, you can’t go wrong with a visit to San Luis Obispo . This city sits on the central coast of California and is delightful all year round…although spring and fall are two of my favorite seasons to visit.

A visit to San Luis Obispo (SLO) offers a variety of entertainment options, from shopping in the cute downtown shops to enjoying the famous weekly Farmers’ Market on Thursdays. The market has lots of fresh produce and delightful handmade products for sale and is worth a visit. While in SLO, you must also explore the local Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa – it is a part of the founding heritage of San Luis Obispo from the year 1772. If you love charming cities, then this is the perfect place to visit!

But if you also enjoy the outdoors—mountains and beaches and all the fun that can be had in the sunny California weather—then SLO is also the place for you! Bishop Peak is a famous local hike that will give you excellent views over the city and the surrounding areas, while nearby beaches like Pismo and Avila provide no end of fun in the water.

If this sounds like the type of city break for you, then be sure to stay at the Madonna Inn—a local landmark in and of itself, with each room decorated in its very own unique style. Your visit to San Luis Obispo will certainly be unforgettable and you’ll want to return time and time again!

Abi at Happy Go Abi

best city trips usa

Billings, Montana 

It’s little by city standards, but there are so many fun things to do in Billings, Montana . Whether you are into history, good food and drinks, active play, or outdoor activities, you’ll find what you are looking for in Billings. 

We always try to include one or more museums in our visits. The Yellowstone Art Museum showcases modern Montana (and Western) artists. The Yellowstone County Museum is chock full of Native American beadwork and projectile points, as well as displaying a two-headed calf. And the Moss Mansion is a turn-of-the-century mansion featured in movies and T.V. shows. 

For outdoor fun, we enjoy the view of the Yellowstone River and Billings from Four Dances Natural Area, guessing the meaning of the pictographs at Pictograph State Park, and witnessing William Clark’s (of Lewis and Clark fame) signature at Pompey’s Pillar National Monument.

Billings has a great downtown filled with a surprising food scene. You can take a self-guided brewery and distillery tour, eat farm to table meals, and explore the Western cuisine. 

For family fun, we recommend a stroll through ZooMontana, bouncing at Get Air! trampoline park, and splashing around at The Reef Indoor Water Park. You can stay at the Big Horn Resort, which is home to The Reef. We also like to stay at The Northern in downtown. 

Mel of Traveling Mel

best city trips usa

Milwaukee is continuing to grow in popularity as a city that’s worth checking out and we couldn’t agree more. You can always find something to do no matter what time of the year, but we highly recommend paying a visit in the summer, as summers in Brew City are hard to beat. 

Believe it or not, Milwaukee is home to the world’s largest music festival, spanning over 11 days with 11 stages at the end of June and into the start of July. Not only will you get your concert fix, but Milwaukee’s best restaurants will have food stalls on the festival grounds, so it’s a great place to sample the city’s best food! 

Don’t worry – we didn’t forget about the beer! Milwaukee is the city that beer built and today there are so many breweries to visit. We highly recommend Lakefront Brewery for its tour, known as one of the best tours in Milwaukee. 

Other notable stops in MIlwaukee include the Harley Davidson Museum, Pabst Mansion, Milwaukee Art Museum, and the Historic Third Ward. As for the best places to stay, we highly recommend either the Pfister Hotel located in the heart of downtown or the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, in the Third Ward area.

Adam at Milwaukee Insider

best city trips usa

Naples, Florida

On the southwestern coast of Florida  – on the western edge of the Florida Everglades – lies Naples, Florida, one of the most popular vacation spots in the United States. Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Naples is easy to get by land, sea, and air — via Regional Southwest International airport (RSW) just 30 minutes away. 

Naples offers visitors year ‘round sunshine and warm weather, beautiful white sand beaches, endless shopping, golf courses galore, and a vibrant restaurant scene. Everything from fine dining, local seafood, and low key food truck fare is on the menu at over 700 eateries. 

The cultural and performing arts scene also makes Naples a great destination — just about any time of year visitors can enjoy performances (many of them free of charge) ranging from concerts in a local park, jazz on the beach, and live performances from a range of international talent. 

Stay at the luxury Inn on Fifth for the best location in the city right on Fifth Avenue South, where you’re surrounded with excellent shops, restaurants and the beach just blocks away.

There’s a lot to offer on a short city break, but one of the favorite things to do in Naples among visitors and locals alike is simply to catch a fiery sunset at the Naples Pier, a perfect way to end your visit.

Lori or Travlin Mad

best city trips usa

Did you like our post on the best city breaks in the USA? Did we miss out on any of your favorite cities? Let us know the answer in the comments.

THE 10 BEST United States City Tours

City tours in united states.

  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Helicopter Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 5.0 of 5 bubbles
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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best city trips usa

  • The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

best city trips usa

1. Capitol Hill Walking Tour with US Capitol and Library of Congress

best city trips usa

2. Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

best city trips usa

3. New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

best city trips usa

4. Night Monuments Tour with 8+ Stops & Optional Attraction Tickets

best city trips usa

5. Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress

best city trips usa

6. Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

best city trips usa

7. New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter with Small-Group Option

best city trips usa

8. History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour

best city trips usa

9. 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in San Luis Obispo

best city trips usa

10. Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

best city trips usa

11. Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry

best city trips usa

12. Savannah Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

best city trips usa

13. Best of San Antonio Small Group Tour with Boat + Tower + Alamo

best city trips usa

14. New York City Sightseeing bus tour and boat ride included

best city trips usa

15. Nashville Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

best city trips usa

16. Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

best city trips usa

17. Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

best city trips usa

18. Miami: 60 Min Night Cruise on Biscayne Bay

best city trips usa

19. New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour After Dark

best city trips usa

20. Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour

best city trips usa

21. Small-Group Tour: SF, Muir Woods, Sausalito w/ Optional Alcatraz

best city trips usa

22. Private Washington DC City Tour

best city trips usa

23. New Orleans Garden District Walking Tour Including Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

best city trips usa

24. Miami Skyline Cruise of South Beach and Millionaire Homes

best city trips usa

25. Big Bus San Francisco Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

best city trips usa

26. Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour

best city trips usa

27. Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge + Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz

best city trips usa

28. 90-Minute Charleston City Sightseeing Bus Tour

best city trips usa

29. New Orleans City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

best city trips usa

30. Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

What travelers are saying.

MargoCalif

  • Claudette D 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour guides provide amazing experience! This was one of our favorite experiences in D.C.! Seeing the monuments during the evening hours is a completely different experience than that of the daytime. And Sally and Chris were the PERFECT tour guides!!! If you can request them, you absolutely should! Read more Review of: Moonlit Bus Tour with Optional Washington Monument or Air & Space Written March 28, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Deborah R

45 American Cities for the Ultimate Girls’ Trip

45 best american cities for a girls’ trip.

Sedona, Arizona

Who runs the world? Girls. And who needs a vacation? Girls. Nothing beats a holiday with your girlfriends. It could be a wild bachelorette party in Las Vegas or a classy wine getaway in Napa Valley with your mom and sisters. But when it comes down to it, you don’t need an excuse to bring the ladies together. Girls just want to have fun. 

Whether you’re the planner of the group, the one who’s down for anything, the overpacker or the hot mess, these are the best cities in the U.S. for a girls’ trip. They include destinations for beach vacations, ski trips, foodie escapes and desert getaways. Call your friends, and let’s go.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Florida tourists often overlook Fort Lauderdale and head straight to Miami. But not so fast. Fort Lauderdale may actually be the better option for a girls’ trip. It’s less crowded, the beaches are just as nice (if not, nicer), and the city offers plenty of spas, shopping and dining. 

What sets Fort Lauderdale apart is the 165 miles of canals that run through the city. Get on the water and book a boat tour — Fort Lauderdale Tiki is a super fun floating tiki bar charter (yes, you read that right) for up to eight people.

For something tamer, the Jungle Queen is an iconic dinner and show sightseeing cruise that will sail the group through the Venice of America.

Must-Visit Spots in Fort Lauderdale

Rhythm & Vine Beer Garden

Must-visit restaurant: Louie Bossi

Must-visit bar: Rhythm & Vine

Must-visit spa: PURE Spa at the Pelican Grand Beach Resort

Where to stay: Riverside Hotel 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee

If you want an unforgettable (maybe a little forgettable) vacation, head to Nashville. It’s one of the best cities for a girls’ weekend. It’s loud, it’s exciting, and it’s fun. Pull on the cowboy boots, and check out the buzzing downtown area. Rows of honkey tonks blast live music all day. 

When you’re tired of walking and would rather dance while getting a tour of the city, consider Off The Wagon Tours , a tractor that pulls a wagon full of people through the city. You really don’t see that every day.

Must-Visit Spots in Nashville

Pinewood Nashville

Must-visit restaurant: Pinewood Social

Must-visit bar: Acme Feed & Seed

Must-vist spa: Spa Haus Nashville

Where to stay: JW Marriott Nashville  

Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina

Head to the mountains for a girls’ getaway in Asheville. There’s plenty of outdoor adventure, shopping and restaurants in this trendy city. If you plan a girls’ trip during the summer, pack a bathing suit and tube down the French Broad River. If you visit during the winter, soak in hot tubs with a view at Shoji Resort and Spa . 

No matter the season, spend half a day shopping at the local artisan galleries throughout the River Arts District. Asheville is also known as "Beer City," so organize a brewery tour to taste local brews with the girls.

Must-Visit Spots in Asheville

Shoji Spa and Lodge

Must-visit restaurant: Pack’s Tavern

Must-visit bar: Off The Wagon Dueling Piano Bar

Must-visit spa: The Spa at Grove Park Inn

Where to stay:   Hotel Indigo Asheville Downtown

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona

Align your chakras in Sedona, a desert town in Arizona that’s surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. When you’re not hiking one of the Red Rock trails or searching for vortexes, get your aura read at Mystical Bazaar . 

Sedona is known for its vibrant arts community, so be sure to schedule time for shopping in town. Our best advice? Arrange a hot-air balloon ride to experience this beautiful city from the sky at sunrise.

Must-Visit Spots in Sedona

Timo Wine Bar

Must-visit restaurant: Ken’s Creekside

Must-visit bar: Timo Wine Bar

Must-visit spa: Mi Amo

Where to stay: Arabella Hotel Sedona

Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida

Head to the southernmost point in the continental United States for the ultimate girls’ trip. Key West’s quirky atmosphere and island vibes are perfect for a quick vacation.

Jumping in the ocean is probably one of the best things to do in Key West, so organize a snorkel charter with the ladies to swim in the turquoise water and explore marine life. 

Key West is also known for its incredible sunsets , so head to Mallory Square for the city’s famous Sunset Celebrations. And don’t forget to embrace all of the Margaritaville vibes. 

Must-Visit Spots in Key West

Thirsty Mermaid

Must-visit restaurant: Thirsty Mermaid

Must-visit bar: Rick’s Bar

Must-visit spa: Amri Key West

Where to stay: Southernmost Beach Resort

Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley, California

If Napa Valley doesn’t scream girls’ trip, then we don’t know what does. Spoil the ladies with the best food, wine and spas in the world. There are about 500 wineries in Napa Valley, and while it’s tempting to visit all 500 in one go, it’s best to stick with one town such as St. Helena, Yountville or Oakville and tackle the wineries at a leisurely pace. 

Other than sipping stellar wines, be sure to take advantage of Napa’s culinary scene. The only challenge to planning a girls’ trip to Napa is not being able to do or see everything. Oh well, you’ll just have to look forward to another reunion in wine country. 

Must-Visit Spots in Napa Valley

Long Meadow Ranch Winery & Farmstead

Must-visit restaurant: Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch

Must-visit bar: Bounty Hunter

Must-visit spa: Hotel Villagio

Where to stay: Archer Hotel Napa

Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado

Spas, shopping, dining, dancing, craft beer — yup. Denver is the ultimate place for a girls’ getaway. The historic Larimer Square in Lower Downtown (LoDo) is the perfect spot for a Denver shopping spree. After maxing out the credit cards, venture to Little Man Ice Cream for a much-needed treat. 

There are plenty of museums, sports, breweries and dispensaries to keep the group occupied. Denver is fun for the girls because it has options for things to do with any group, depending on the mood.

Must-Visit Spots in Denver

Il Posto

Must-visit restaurant: Il Posto

Must-visit bar: Cru Food & Wine Bar

Must-visit spa: Spa at the Brown Palace

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada

If you want pure fun with no strings attached, take the girlfriends to Las Vegas. Relax before getting rowdy with a spa treatment at one of the resorts. Then, opt for a boozy brunch to get the party started. 

Depending on how things escalate, swing by Magic Mike Live in true girls-night-out fashion. Recover by booking a daybed at a resort and lounging by the pool.

Then, repeat. 

Must-Visit Spots in Las Vegas

Commonwealth

Must-visit restaurant: Motto 32

Must-visit bar: Commonwealth

Must-visit spa: Canyon Ranch Spa at The Venetian

Where to stay: The Venetian Resort Las Vegas 

Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas

It’s not hard to plan a girls’ trip to Austin. Live music, trendy bars and southern hospitality make it a welcoming city. 

But when you’re not shopping for cowboy boots downtown or sipping cocktails on Rainy Street, book an ATX Party Boat for fun on the water. The tour offers captained pontoon rentals for groups, which depart from the west side of town and motor down the Colorado River toward Lake Austin.

Must-Visit Spots in Austin

milk + honey

Must-visit restaurant: The Salt Lick BBQ

Must-visit bar: Midnight Cowboy

Must-visit spa: milk + honey

Where to stay: Fairmont Austin 

West Yellowstone, Montana

West Yellowstone, Montana

Book a cozy cabin, and visit West Yellowstone with the girls. The town is known as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park and boasts plenty of outdoor adventures. The area has a surprising array of options for dining and drinking, thanks to pubs, restaurants and coffee shops that are ideal for a girl group. 

The only problem you’ll run into is deciding whether to bike, fish, ski, shop, eat, horseback ride, gamble or relax. Don’t forget the cowboy hats.

Must-Visit Spots in West Yellowstone

Firehole Bar-B-Que Company

Must-visit restaurant: Firehole Bar-B-Que Company

Must-visit bar: Slippery Otter Pub

Must-visit spa: West Yellowstone Massage

Where to stay: WorldMark West Yellowstone  

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs, California

For those looking to trade a big city for a desert escape, Palm Springs is the answer. With an average of 350 days of sunshine, you’ll want to go pool hopping at popular hotels, which are open to the public. The Saguaro has an Instagram-worthy pool and live DJs on the weekend. 

And for relaxed shopping, the city center hosts Village Fest every Thursday evening with street music, live entertainment and food stalls. At night, head to Red Barn for local live music, wild dancing and cheap drinks.

Must-Visit Spots in Palm Springs

Le Vallauris

Must-visit restaurant: Le Vallauris

Must-visit bar: Red Barn

Must-visit spa: Miramonte Indian Wells Resort & Spa

Where to stay: Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa 

Killington, Vermont

Killington, Vermont

If you have a group of friends who are into skiing and snowboarding, then book a trip to Killington. This cute ski resort is perfect for all skill levels. 

Balance out the sports with a relaxing spa day. The Killington Grand Spa offers a warm maple sugar scrub that’s made with Vermont maple syrup. When it’s time to let loose, the Wobbly Barn Nightclub turns up with live music and themed parties.

Must-Visit Spots in Killington

The Foundry

Must-visit restaurant: The Foundry

Must-visit bar: Motor Room Bar

Must-visit spa: The Killington Grand Spa

Where to stay: The Vermont Inn  

Park City, Utah

Park City, Utah

Mines, wines and alpine spas will make for a memorable girls’ trip in Park City. While it’s known as winter’s favorite town, it’s a great place year-round. 

For something a little different, sign up for Fox School of Wine’s mines and wines tour. A sommelier pairs snacks with wines during a three-hour group tour that heads into the historic mines (sensible shoes recommended). Park City has an array of restaurants, bars, art, culture, spas and, of course, incredible skiing.

A foolproof girls’ trip is inevitable. 

Must-Visit Spots in Park City

Fletcher's Park City

Must-visit restaurant: Twisted Farm

Must-visit bar: Fletcher’s

Must-visit spa: Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge

Where to stay: Hotel Park City, Autograph Collection

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Fun fact: Forbes ranked Santa Fe the No. 1 city in the U.S. for female-owned businesses . If that’s not a reason to plan a girls’ trip to Santa Fe, then we don’t know what is. 

Besides excellent food and desert weather, check out all of the art galleries and museums. Of course, you’ll also want to visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and pay homage to this fascinating female artist.

Must-Visit Spots in Santa Fe

Pasqual’s Cafe

Must-visit restaurant: Pasqual’s Cafe  

Must-visit bar: The Matador

Must-visit spa: Wo’P’In Spa

Where to stay: Inn on the Alameda 

Willamette Valley, Oregon

Willamette Valley, Oregon

If you and the girls love adventure and wine, then consider Willamette Valley for your next girls’ trip. It’s a smaller version of Napa Valley and home to some of the best wines in the world. 

Have each of the girls choose one vineyard to tour, and make a game plan to tackle each winery. Willamette Valley has incredible food, too, so be ready to splurge on some stellar meals. 

Must-Visit Spots in Willamette Valley

Wolves + People

Must-visit restaurant: The Ox

Must-visit bar: Wolves + People

Must-visit spa : The Allison Inn + Spa

Where to stay: Best Western Premier Boulder Falls Inn  

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina

Head to Charleston for an Instagram-worthy girls’ trip. The cobblestone streets, rainbow-colored buildings and rich history make it a super fun place to explore (and have photoshoots). 

Take the ladies for makeovers at Largo Salon . Once you’re all dolled up, check out happy hour at Uncork Charleston for wine and charcuterie boards. And don’t skip a sunset cruise around Charleston Harbor with (the appropriately named) Carolina Girl Yacht . 

Must-Visit Spots in Charleston

The Darling Oyster Bar

Must-visit restaurant: The Darling Oyster Bar

Must-visit bar: Uncork Charleston

Must-visit spa: Woodhouse Day Spa

Where to stay: Hotel Bennett

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans, Louisiana

Put your party pants on for a girls’ trip to New Orleans. It’s about to get wild in the best way possible. The great thing about NOLA is that you can balance exploring a cool city with unforgettable nights on the town. 

During the day, book a mural and graffiti art walk that takes you to the best hidden art in NOLA. When it gets dark, take the girls to an intimate music venue called Bacchanal , which has a shady courtyard for small-stage performances and an incredible wine list. 

Must-Visit Spots in New Orleans

Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone

Must-visit restaurant: Bevi Seafood Co .

Must-visit bar: Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone 

Must-visit spa: The Waldorf Astoria Spa

Where to stay: Loews New Orleans Hotel 

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Rent a cozy cabin in Jackson Hole and plan an off-the-grid girls’ weekend. If you visit during the winter, then take advantage of the ski resorts. Cross-country skiing is an excellent activity to do with the girls. 

If you visit during the summer, though, even better. In true Wild West fashion, saddle up on a horseback riding adventure through the grassy plains. At night, no matter the season, check out Millionaire Cowboy Bar — it’s like stepping into a Western film, complete with saddles for barstools and plenty of space for line dancing.

Must-Visit Spots in Jackson Hole

Millionaire Cowboy Bar

Must-visit restaurant: Bin22

Must-visit bar: Millionaire Cowboy Bar 

Must-visit spa: Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa

Where to stay: Cowboy Village Resort  

Destin, Florida

Destin, Florida

Located on Florida’s panhandle is a cute beach town called Destin. It has uncrowded beaches, relaxing spas and high-end food. Wake up in the morning with group yoga on the beach, and then grab a coffee and explore the town. 

Paddleboarding is a super popular activity in Destin because you’re likely to spot a dolphin in the water. If the group would rather kick back on a boat, you can charter a private catamaran and go snorkeling off the coast. 

Must-Visit Spots in Destin

Pompano Joe’s

Must-visit restaurant: Stinky’s Fish Camp

Must-visit bar: Pompano Joe’s

Must-visit spa: Beverly Hills Day Spa

Where to stay: The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa  

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah screams girls’ weekend. Book a tour with Savannah Slow Ride to experience a traveling tabletop powered by a 15-person bicycle, complete with a tour guide/conductor/DJ (what a job). 

When you’re not exploring the city via bicycle bar, relax at the beach on Tybee Island. It’s an awesome spot to soak up the sun and splash in the waves. 

Must-Visit Spots in Savannah

Southbound Brewing Company

Must-visit restaurant: The Original Crab Shack

Must-visit bar: Southbound Brewing Company

Must-visit spa: Savannah Day Spa

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Savannah  

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, California

Big cities are great spots for girls’ trips because there’s plenty of options for things to do, and Los Angeles has everything. Depending on the mood of the group, hike Runyon Canyon for an outdoor activity. When it’s time to shop, visit The Grove outdoor mall. 

The best way to tackle the food in L.A. is to have each member of the group pick a restaurant so that you all get a chance to try something different and new. When the sun goes down, head to a drag show at Hamburger Mary’s for fun entertainment.

Must-Visit Spots in Los Angeles

Glen Ivy Hot Springs

Must-visit restaurant: Gracias Madre

Must-visit bar: Spare Room

Must-visit spa: Glen Ivy Hot Springs Spa

Where to stay: The Kinney - Venice Beach 

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Nantucket, a charming coastal town, comes to life in the summer. Plan a girls’ weekend full of boutique shopping, sunny beach days and lobster rolls. One of the best ways to see Nantucket is by bike. Pack a picnic, and take a scenic loop to Sconset and back. 

But don’t skip the chance to get on the water, as there are plenty of sunset cruises that will take your group around the harbor. If you want to embrace the Nantucket way of life, plan a clambake with the girls (complete with a bib, white wine and laughs).

Must-Visit Spots in Nantucket

Straight Wharf

Must-visit restaurant: Straight Wharf

Must-visit bar: The Chicken Box

Must-visit spa: Darya Salon & Spa

Where to stay: Martin House Inn  

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Pagosa Springs is a small town in southwest Colorado known for its hot springs and surrounded by the San Juan Mountains. A girls’ trip to Pagosa Springs is a combination of adventure and relaxation. 

In the summer, you can paddle, float or tube down the San Juan River. In the winter, plan a dog-sledding adventure with your girlfriends. But no matter what time of year it is, the natural hot springs are the main attraction, and there are plenty of spas where you can enjoy them.

Must-Visit Spots in Pagosa Springs

Root House

Must-visit restaurant: Root House

Must-visit bar: Riff Raff on the Rio

Must-visit spa: The Springs Resort & Spa

Where to stay: Elktrace Bed & Breakfast  

San Diego, California

San Diego, California

Soak up the sun, and slather on the sunscreen in San Diego. When you’re not drooling over the surfers at the beach, check out the local wineries and breweries. 

And, of course, when it comes to food, eat all the fish tacos you can find. There are some really cool Airbnbs in San Diego, like this oceanside cottage . Dibs your room now. 

Must-Visit Spots in San Diego

The Crack Shack

Must-visit restaurant: The Crack Shack

Must-visit bar: Craft & Commerce

Must-visit spa: The Catamaran Spa

Where to stay: The Horton Grand Hotel  

Miami, Florida

Miami City on Sunny Day, USA

The great thing about Miami is that you’ll all be able to find something you all want to do — whether that's a pool party, jet skiing in the ocean, relaxing at a spa, renting a yacht charter, or shopping on Lincoln Avenue. Plus, it boasts great weather year-round. 

If the vibe is to relax, there are plenty of resort pools that offer cabanas and poolside service for the girls to enjoy. If you’re feeling more of a party vibe, we suggest dressing up and heading for a rooftop bar. 

Must-Visit Spots in Miami

Sugar

Must-visit restaurant: Sherwood’s Bistro & Bar

Must-visit bar: Sugar

Must-visit spa: Lapis Spa

Where to stay: Carillon Miami Wellness Resort

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu, Hawaii beachfront resorts

What better way to enjoy time with your girls than in gorgeous, gorgeous Hawaii? The state's capital has everything you could want. Most of the tourism movement centers around the famous Waikiki Beach, where you can sunbathe during the day and party at night. Restaurants, shops, surf spots and night lounges all congregate in this neighborhood.

Located on the island of Oahu, the city also has unique non-beach activities perfect for friend groups. If you want to enjoy the state's natural beauty, you can hike up to Diamond Head or Punchbowl Crater, both of which offer gorgeous views. For a bit of history, visit Iolani Palace , where the last two monarchs of the Hawaiian Kingdom lived, or spend an afternoon at the Hawaii State Art Museum .

Must-Visit Spots in Honolulu

Friends in Oahu Hawaii USA

Must-visit restaurant: Pai Honolulu

Must-visit bar:  Duke's Waikiki

Must-visit spa: Spa U'liani

Where to stay: Prince Waikiki

Charlottesville, Virginia

Vineyard in Charlottesville, Virginia in the fall

It may be a small city, but Charlottesville has something to offer everyone. Home of the University of Virginia, the city is filled with the electricity that usually accompanies college towns. But don't think all you'll find are frat parties and dive bars. On the contrary, Charlottesville provides a refined atmosphere with boutique shops and delicious local restaurants. 

More impressively, the city is quite literally surrounded by more than 30 vineyards, most of which offer tours and wine tastings with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Some even have horseback riding opportunities! For an outdoor adventure, you can also do a day trip to Shenandoah National Park.

Must-Visit Spots in Charlottesville

Girls trip to Charlottesville, Virginia

Must-visit restaurant: Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria

Must-visit bar:  The Virginian

Must-visit spa: Oasis Day Spa & Body Shop

Where to stay: Oakhurst Inn

Newport, Rhode Island

Castle Hill Inn in Newport, Rhode Island

Often-overlooked Newport is a perfect small New England town by the water. While it's laid-back and welcoming, it also has a glitzy side that can be most obviously witnessed at Cliff Walk . This very light trail provides views of the Atlantic, but what really motivates people to come here are the grandiose mansions that stand tall on the cliffs right on the trail. 

Once you're done fantasizing about owning one of the mansions, you can go to the harbor and fantasize about owning one of the countless yachts that float along it. It is, of course, entirely possible to rent a sailboat and make the fantasy a reality with an incredibly fun activity everyone in the group will love (finally!).

Must-Visit Spots in Newport

Yachts on Newport Harbor, Rhode Island

Must-visit restaurant: The Newport Lobster Shack

Must-visit bar:  Pour Judgement

Must-visit spa: Spa Fjor

Where to stay: Castle Hill Inn

Washington, D.C.

Washington monument at sunset in Washington DC

Like most capitals, D.C. is one of the best cities in the United States. Drag your friends to visit all the places on the essential D.C. checklist: Smithsonian Museums, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Tidal Basin, etc. 

Once you've checked those off the list, you can drag them to all the cool spots in the capital that many tourists simply miss out on. Go to Adams Morgan, where colorful historic buildings peacefully coexist with street art and where high-end restaurants reside next to tattoo parlors. Or put your walking shoes on and spend time in Georgetown, a somewhat insular neighborhood that's basically a tiny college town. Here, you'll find great bars and cheap eats.

Must-Visit Spots in Washington, D.C.

Tourist in the Capitol in Washington D.C.

Must-visit restaurant: Tail Up Goat

Must-visit bar:  Jack Rose

Must-visit spa: Salamander Resort & Spa

Where to stay: Lyle Washington DC

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor, Maine main street shops

For a perfect New England vacation, look no further than picturesque Bar Harbor. With rows of colorful historic houses downtown and around the harbor, this postcard-perfect city is perfect for relaxing with friends. 

You can spend your days delighting in fresh seafood or shopping at myriad boutique shops that line Main Street. As the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor also offers plenty of outdoor activities. For those who want to see nature without breaking a sweat, whale watching tours and general boat tours around the bay and the nearby Cranberry Islands are always fun. 

If you want to get more active, you'll have numerous trails in the national park, many of which will reward you with views of the Atlantic Ocean as well as of pretty Bar Harbor from the distance. You can also go sailing or get out into the water with an Acadia sea kayak tour .

Must-Visit Spots in Bar Harbor

Hiking in Acadia National Park in the fall

Must-visit restaurant: Geddy's Seafood Restaurant

Must-visit bar:  Cottage Street Pub

Must-visit spa: Massage Bar Harbor

Where to stay: Bar Harbor Inn

San Juan, Puerto Rico

El Morro fortress, San Juan, Puerto Rico

While technically a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico is very much its own country. A trip here is like sneakily leaving the country without needing a passport!

San Juan, the capital of "the Isle of Enchantment" (as Puerto Rico is known) is a beautiful city where there is always something exciting to do. Spanish colonial architecture lends it both undeniable beauty and a testament to a painful history of European rule. Cobblestone streets take you to landmarks like El Morro fortress and the famous Paseo de la Princesa, a waterfront promenade dotted with restaurants and shops. 

You are more than welcome to spend the day at the beach with your friends, sipping refreshing piña coladas — the Puerto Rican national drink. If you want a little adventure, you can go on a day trip to nearby El Yunque National Forest, where you can finally test which of your friends is the bravest by ziplining or rapelling down powerful waterfalls. 

Must-Visit Spots in San Juan

Girl's trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico

Must-visit restaurant: Cocina Publica

Must-visit bar:  La Penultima

Must-visit spa: Cloud Spa

Where to stay: Casa Sol Bed & Breakfast

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago River boat tour

If you want to spend a girls' getaway weekend in a beautiful city with good food, awesome nightlife, views of Lake Michigan and some of the most prestigious museums in the U.S ., come to Chicago. 

Thank the Chicago School of Architecture for part of the city's good looks. Take the Chicago Architecture River Cruise to learn about the different architectural movements that have influenced the city. When you're done, your group can head to the expansive Millennium Park, where you'll find the Art Institute of Chicago and the famous Bean sculpture — an unmissable photo op. 

Another place you'll want to go for Insta-perfect pictures is Skydeck Chicago , where brave souls step out onto a glass panel that literally puts the city at their feet. 

Must-Visit Spots in Chicago

Skydeck Chicago, best views of Chicago

Must-visit restaurant: Pequod's Pizza

Must-visit bar:  Green Mill Cocktail Lounge

Must-visit spa: Oxygen Spa Studio

Where to stay: The Guesthouse Hotel

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Oceanana Pier in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina at Sunset

Want a quiet beach getaway with the girls? Rent a beach house in North Carolina's Outer Banks for a relaxing girls' trip. The days will be spent on the sand, playing beach volleyball and eating obscene amounts of fresh seafood. And unlike in other beach destinations, you won't have to deal with high-rise resorts and hoards of loud tourists. 

On the contrary, here, you'll get to see wild horses that like to run on the beach as much as you do. You can also visit Cape Hatteras National Seashore and, if you're looking for a thrill, go diving in shipwreck sites.

Must-Visit Spots in Outer Banks

Wild horses on the beach in Outer Banks, North Carolina

Must-visit restaurant: North Banks Restaurant & Raw Bar

Must-visit bar:  The Beer Garden

Must-visit spa: Outer Banks Massage Therapy

Where to stay: Shutters on The Banks  

New York, New York

Manhattan at dusk, New York

New York may not be the prettiest city, but it is undeniably the coolest city in the U.S. (and one of the coolest in the world.) The city simply has it all and moves with an energy that's almost like a wave, taking you in with it and forcing you to move at its speed. 

There are a million ways to do New York, whether you want to be chill and focus on the culture, live the high-life and pamper yourself, dedicate your time to partying or a mix of all of them. You can be spending the day at the Metropolitan Art Museum, dining at a Michelin-star restaurant in the evening, going to an underground club at night and getting kebabs from a food cart as the sun rises. Whatever you decide to do, your girls' trip is guaranteed to be memorable.

Must-Visit Spots in New York

Brooklyn Bridge photo spot

Must-visit restaurant: Tuome

Must-visit bar:  Tomi Jazz

Must-visit spa: ORA Spa

Where to stay: citizenM New York Times Square

Fairbanks, Alaska

Float plane in Fairbanks, Alaska

They say sharing extreme experiences brings people together, and there are few places as extreme as Alaska. As the gateway to the Alaskan Arctic, Fairbanks is particularly situated for adventures. Hikes, boat tours and seafood restaurants can fill your days with fun. 

Your experience will change completely based on the season. Summer brings long days, opportunities for kayaking and pleasant weather. The winter is very harsh, but you'll be able to go dog sledding and, if you're lucky, perhaps even see the dancing whirlwinds of the Northern Lights.

Must-Visit Spots in Fairbanks

Watching the northern lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Must-visit restaurant: Wolf Run Restaurant

Must-visit bar:  Goldie's AK

Must-visit spa: Chenai Hot Springs Resort

Where to stay: Borealis Basecamp

Escalante, Utah

Golden Cathedral, Escalante Utah

Escalante is more of a town than a city, but it has its own airport and makes for one of the most special girls' trips you can have. 

You'll be within 1.5 hours of both Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef national parks and less than five hours from Zion, Canyonlands and Arches national parks. If you're doing a short weekend trip, you can potentially see at least two of these natural landmarks. And if you have more time, you could plan to visit every single one of the state's otherworldly parks.

Nothing helps to bond with the girls like hiking through some of the country's most astonishing sites. Plus, you can camp, glamp or sleep in a cabin to make you feel like you're all back in the blissful days of summer camp.

Must-Visit Spots in Escalante

Girl in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah

Must-visit restaurant: Escalante Outfitters

Must-visit bar:  4th West Pub

Must-visit spa: Stargaze Spa

Where to stay: Yonder Escalante

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Fountain in Bowling Green's town square

Looking for something a bit more off-the-beaten-path? Set your eyes on this little-known Kentucky city, which is so much cooler than many people expect. 

Bowling Green's uniqueness comes from its status as a refugee resettlement city, which has brought it diversity and definitely enhanced its food scene. Besides learning about the town's interesting history at the Kentucky Museum, you'll have the amazing opportunity to take an underground boat tour through the Lost River Cave system. And don't think this is just a sleepy little town — if you need adrenaline, you can actually race Corvettes at the National Corvette Museum.

Must-Visit Spots in Bowling Green

Lost River Bowling Green

Must-visit restaurant: The Bistro

Must-visit bar: Gerard's 107 Tavern

Must-visit spa: Sanctuary Body Spa

Where to stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Bowling Green

Atlanta, Georgia

Colorful Centennial Fountain at night, Atlanta

For reasons unknown, Atlanta continues to be sorely underrated when it comes to friends' trips. The city has it all: a grand park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame, an absolutely amazing food scene, Civil Rights history museums and plenty of funky bars that guarantee a good time. And, unlike in other places in the U.S., there is actually decent public transportation in Atlanta, so you won't have to worry about renting a car or spending a month's worth of rent on ride-sharing apps. 

Visit East Atlanta Village for a less tourist, more authentic side of the city, where you'll find independent bookstores, mom-and-pop shops and locally owned restaurants. At night, head over to Little Five Points, the heart of alternative nightlife in the city.

Must-Visit Spots in Atlanta

Woman in Piedmont Park in Atlanta,

Must-visit restaurant: The Vortex 

Must-visit bar: Wrecking Bar BrewPub 

Must-visit spa: Aviary Beauty

Where to stay: The Georgian Terrace

Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington, USA Downtown

Seattle is the perfect place for friend groups that can't decide between city and nature. Washington state's most famous city is ultra modern, housing tech giants like Microsoft and boasting landmarks like the Space Needle. You'll find everything you'd want from a cosmopolitan destination, including any food you could crave and a variety of bars and clubs. 

But you can also easily get out into nature. Seattle is located on the majestic Puget Sound, so you don't even have to get out of the city to go kayaking, and you could be enjoying fun hikes within half an hour of the metropolis.

Must-Visit Spots in Seattle

Mount Pilchuck, Seattle, Washington.

Must-visit restaurant: Elliot's Oyster House

Must-visit bar: Aerlume

Must-visit spa: Ananya Spa Seattle

Where to stay: The W Seattle

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Bath House Row Hot Springs, Arkansas

An entire city dedicated to soaking in natural hot springs is definitely where you want to go for a relaxing getaway with the girls.

As the gateway to Hot Springs National Park, this city in Arkansas provides opportunities to enjoy easy hikes in the Ouachita Mountains. You won't be able to get into the springs in the park, but you can still benefit from the mineral water at Bathhouse Row, a street dotted with bathhouses that date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Of the eight bathhouses, two are still in operation.

For a spa vacation, few places in the U.S. can hold a candle to Hot Springs.

Must-Visit Spots in Hot Springs

Buckstaff Baths Spa bath house Hot Springs, Arkansas

Must-visit restaurant: Luna Bella

Must-visit bar: Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery

Must-visit spa: Buckstaff Bath

Where to stay: 1884 Wildwood Bed & Breakfast

Boston, Massachussetts

Boston, Massachusetts, USA Downtown

How do you beat a city that has both skyscrapers and cobblestone streets? Resisting the complete modernization that afflicts other large cities in the country, Boston has kept much of its historic charm very much alive. Plus, if you and your girls love sports, there is no city that takes its sports teams as seriously. 

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, walk along the Freedom Trail, catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park (if you can) and plan a cute picnic in the Boston Common park.

Must-Visit Spots in Boston

Boston Commons in summer

Must-visit restaurant: Sarma

Must-visit bar: Lookout Rooftop and Bar at Envoy 

Must-visit spa: Balans Organic Spa

Where to stay: Boston Omni Parker House Hotel

Kapalua, Hawaii

Maui Palm Trees with Mountain

Honolulu is great, but maybe you want something a little less obvious out of your trip to Hawaii. If this is you and your friends, head to Maui, the Valley Isle. 

Much more rugged and less developed than Oahu, you won't find the ocean view ruined by gigantic skyrises, though you will still have access to luxurious resorts and delicious food. Stay in Kapalua on the western part of the island, where most of the resorts are and from which you can easily book tours for experiences like the Road to Hana and the Molokini Crater.

Must-Visit Spots in Kapalua

Friends surfing in Maui

Must-visit restaurant: Cane & Canoe

Must-visit bar: Kitchen 5315 Restaurant & Tiki Bar

Must-visit spa: Ritz-Carlton Maui Spa

Where to stay: Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa  

San Antonio, Texas

Decoration of Historic Market Square San Antonio

While it's only two hours away from Austin, San Antonio has managed to carve its own distinctive identity in the vast expanse of Texas. 

First inhabited by the Papaya people, the area also houses people from tribes like the Apaches and Comanches. The city was then ruled by the Spanish before becoming part of independent Mexico and then annexed by the U.S. This complex history has given it a particular culture that you will have a difficult time finding anywhere else. 

You and your group can visit the sight of the Battle of the Alamo, get great views at HemisFair Park's tower and enjoy a scenic dinner along the beautiful River Walk promenade.

Must-Visit Spots in San Antonio

San Antonio Riverwalk - Texas

Must-visit restaurant: Acenar Mexican Restaurant

Must-visit bar: Bar 1919

Must-visit spa: Puresol Spa

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk  

Bend, Oregon

Downtown Bend Oregon USA

Sure, Portland is nice and all, but Bend is really where you'll find all the best of Oregon. The small city is blessed with the Cascade Mountains, which turns it into a perfect ski town in the winter. 

It's still an amazing place to visit at any other point of the year, especially if you want to relax and connect with friends. Visit the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, which will take you through an impressive lava tube, and don't forget to do the Bend Ale Trail , which takes you to the city's best breweries and distilleries.

Also, the city has the last remaining Blockbuster in the United States, so that's an obvious must-see.

Must-Visit Spots in Bend

Kayaking on Oregon Lake

Must-visit restaurant: The Lot

Must-visit bar: The Ale Apothecary

Where to stay: Oxford Hotel Bend

Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Best known for the Kentucky Derby and its wild hats , Louisville is also famous for being the bourbon capital of the world. If over-the-top hats and bourbon don't scream "girls' trip," then we don't know what does!

Of course, taking one of the numerous distillery tours along the Bourbon Trail is necessary. But whenever you're not sipping bourbon, there are plenty of other fun things to do. Visit Museum Row, or go shopping at the boutique stores that line the streets of Nulu District. 

This is one very underrated group trip destination that actually hits all the marks.

Must-Visit Spots in Louisville

Main Street in Louisville, Ky

Must-visit restaurant: Mayan Cafe

Must-visit bar: Bourbons Bistro

Must-visit spa: Sanctuary Massage & Spa

Where to stay: Galt House Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham  

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21 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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A highway leading toward mountains

Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car. Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

From scenic drives along wildflower-dotted coasts to routes that help you learn more about America’s history, the following U.S. road trips allow you to enjoy the detours as much as the final destination. No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Cross-country road trips in the U.S.

Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

2. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. And to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime—whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside attractions, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

Shorter road trips throughout the U.S.

Not all of us have the time to drive cross-country. Fortunately there are plenty of amazing, shorter road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

  • The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
  • The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay relatively close to home.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

  • The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
  • Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
  • Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
  • Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah's Arches National Park.

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park.

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but we recommend staying at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

  • The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
  • Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
  • 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
  • The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

  • The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

  • The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
  • Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
  • The AFAR Guide to Denver

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

  • The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
  • The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

  • The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
  • Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
  • The AFAR Guide to Nashville
  • The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

  • The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
  • Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and Sabinal. Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

  • The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
  • Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

  • The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
  • Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Overhead view of curvy Kancamagus Highway through fall forest

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 56-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s storied, jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit, with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Interior of Leah & Louise restaurant in Charlotte

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains , and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach. Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Two stand-up paddleboarders  on the water at sunset

Stand-up paddle boarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Additional road trip planning resources

Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

  • Best road trip snacks
  • Road trip planning apps
  • Podcasts and audiobooks to download
  • What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 19, 2023, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

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A Passion and A Passport

Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

25+ Perfect Week-Long USA Itineraries: From Sea to Shining Sea

last Updated: December 14, 2023

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Looking to travel within the states? Everyone underestimates just how amazing the United States is! Check out these week-long USA itineraries – some of which I’ve done myself and others that are on my long, never-ending bucket list.

But first, close your eyes and think of America. I bet juicy cheeseburgers, baseball games on hot summer nights, old fashioned cowboys, and over-the-top theme parks quickly come to mind.

But what about staggering green peaks, impressive slot canyons, and rugged beaches? Quirky roadside attractions, bewildering national parks, and chic, coastal towns?

And oh, the food. We’ve got real-deal taquerias in San Francisco, famous deep dish pizza in Chicago, clambakes in New England, BBQ in Texas Hill Country, and food trucks in Portland. The list goes on. 

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I’m always aiming to explore more of my home country, and while I commonly find myself jetting off to faraway destinations, whenever I do stay within the USA, I’m utterly amazed. Always. The sheer beauty, quirkiness, diversity, and overall good time just gets me every time.

Shame on me for always wanting to leave (although Chefchaouen , Kotor , and Bali are always a good idea)!

Thankfully, I’ve had my fair share of traveling within the states. A few of my favorite week-long USA itineraries to date include: island hopping between Oahu , Maui , and Kauai , a road trip through Utah’s stunning national parks , checking out Seattle and Mt. Rainier (my first solo trip ever back in 2015), road tripping around Oregon , time in southern California , and of course a massive road trip down Highway 1 on the west coast! I’ve also visited dozens of additional USA hotspots, but they can’t all be my favorites (or can they?).

Read Next: My 50 States Challenge (Visiting all 50 States Before Turning 40!)

So you’ve only got a week or so to travel and don’t feel like lugging yourself (and all your stuff) overseas? I get it, traveling abroad can be wildly exhausting at times. Don’t fret – I’ve compiled some of the best USA itineraries to help fulfill all your wild American dreams (whether you actually live in the states or are coming from elsewhere).

best city trips usa

These USA itineraries I’ve put together below are a good mix of road trips, city breaks, and beach hopping – some with train and/or air travel between destinations involved. There’s bound to be something on this list for everyone, you’lllllll see. Now – go take off a week from work, pick out one of these USA itineraries, and start the planning process!

*Note that driving distance and times listed below are for traveling between destinations listed per itinerary. You’ll of course need to get yourself to the area first!

Big thank you to all those who contributed (info below), as I unfortunately haven’t made it to all the destinations on this epic list of US itineraries. Whenever I haven’t visited a place, I always seek out those with much more expertise than myself! Just being real with you guys, as always! 🙂

And now for what you’ve come here for – a USA itinerary for every type of trip and traveler!

1. Utah National Parks Road Trip

  • Driving Distance/Time: 19 hours roundtrip (Las Vegas to Las Vegas)
  • How to Split up the Time: 1 day per National Park (5 days total) | 1 day Monument Valley  | 1 day Page, Arizona

There’s nothing better than a good ole fashioned USA road trip through nature- and thankfully, Utah has some of the best National Parks in the entire country. The National Parks in Utah will blow your mind – and the best way to see all of the Mighty 5? On a Utah road trip of course! 

Hiking to the Hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park | www.apassionandapassport.com

The National Parks in Southern Utah are like no other.  From photogenic hoodoos in Bryce Canyon to hiking sandstone arches in Arches National Park, the scenery from all 5 of the Utah National Parks will really blow you away.  Combine them with a short detour to Monument Valley and then  Page, Arizona , and you’ve got the most perfect (and varied!) week-long road trip.

Note: if you’re feeling ambitious and want to see all five of the National Parks in Utah in just a week, you’ll need to follow a pretty jam-packed itinerary. Don’t let this deter you, but if you’d rather spend more time in each park, choose 2 or 3 of your favorites. I recommend flying into Las Vegas, renting a car, and doing a roundtrip road trip for the week!

lower antelope canyon page Arizona

→ Read Next: 1 Week Road Trip Through Utah’s National Parks

Additional Resources : 1 Week in Utah Road Trip | Hiking in Bryce Canyon | Tour through Monument Valley | Hiking Angels Landing in Zion | 

2. Miami and Florida Keys

  • Driving Distance/Time: 166 miles | 4 hours
  • How to Split up the Time: 3 days Miami | 4 days road tripping to Key West

MIAMI (3 Days)

Welcome to Miami, bienvenido a miami. << that song instantaneously plays in my head whenever I just think of Miami — anyone else? And hot girls in bathing suits partying in South Beach… haha. No, just me? Okay, let’s move on. 

best city trips usa

Miami and the Florida Keys can be easily explored in just about a week or so. Plan out 3 days in Miami, and save the remaining time for road tripping to Key West!

In Miami, don’t miss the world famous beaches of South Beach, a walk down Ocean Drive (complete with neon lights and Art Deco Buildings), grabbing some drinks at South Point Park, those instagram famous Wynwood Walls, and indulging in some Cuban food. Consider adding a stop to the Everglades as well to get up close and personal with those gators that Florida is so well known for.

FLORIDA KEYS (4 days)

And an addition of the Florida Keys, just about 4 hours from Miami to Key West (the furthest key) makes for the perfect varied USA itinerary. You can’t leave The Florida Keys without indulging in some famous Key Lime Pie, visiting the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, driving the 7 mile bridge, and daytripping to the Dry Tortugas National Park. Told you there was lots to do over here.

best city trips usa

And get this → The southern tip of Key West is just 90 miles away from Cuba, making it the southernmost point in the Continental USA!

Additional Resources: Top Things to do in Miami  

3. San Francisco and Napa Valley and/or Yosemite/Lake Tahoe

  • Driving Distance/Time : SF to Napa Valley 60 miles, 1 hour | SF to Yosemite 190 miles, 4 hours | SF to Lake Tahoe 200 miles, 3 hours, 15 min
  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days San Francisco | 3 days in Napa/Yosemite/Lake Tahoe

SAN FRANCISCO (4 days)

I may be a bit biased ( I moved to the SF Bay Area not too long ago), but San Francisco really is one of the best cities in the world states. 

best city trips usa

San Francisco may be small (at less than 50 square miles) compared to the monstrosity that is New York City (over 300!), but it sure packs in a lot of must-sees. It’s electric, moody, and exhilarating. To quote Anthony Bourdain, “Any one who doesn’t have a great time in San Francisco is pretty much dead to me.” Robin Williams even stated, “There’s no question this is where I want to live. Never has been.” 

It’s obvious the City by the Bay holds up to it’s high standards. And there’s tons to do here . From hiking and biking to drinking and snacking, it’s true – the City by the Bay truly has it all.  Not to mention some of the best burritos in the country. And since this is America’s most liberal city, feel free to wear what you like, say what you like, and act how you like. 

A few things not to miss in SF: amire the views at Twin Peaks, day trip to Sausalito , ever-so-popular Lombard Street, Alcatraz Island, go for a stroll in Golden Gate Park, grab a sundae at Ghirardelli, check out Alamo Square and the Painted Ladies, and wander throughout the Castro and Haight. And of course you have to walk/bike over the Golden Gate Bridge ( my favorite views of the bridge here ), it’s stunning no matter the weather (blue sky or covered in fog). 

best city trips usa

A FULL 3-day San Francisco guide is in the works, so be on the lookout for that if you’re planning a trip to the City by the Bay in the near future. If you’re looking for some fun outside the city, check out these day trips from SF .

Additional Resources (I got lots for ya here): First Time Visitor’s Guide to San Francisco , Where to Find the Best Views of the Golden Gate Bridge , Best Desserts in San Francisco , Ultimate San Francisco Food Bucket List | Day Trips from San Francisco | Weekend Trips from San Francisco | Things to do in Sausalito | SF Bay Area Bucket List  

NAPA, LAKE TAHOE, or YOSEMITE (3 days)

And since there’s just so much in the surrounding areas, after spending 3-4 days in SF, go off on a mini road trip and explore! My top picks to finish off this USA itinerary are: Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, or Yosemite National Park. Napa’s about an hour and a half north, while the latter two are roughly 4 hours east. Wine or nature – pick your poison. Technicalllyyyy you could visit Napa as a day trip from SF and thennnn go to either Lake Tahoe or Yosemite, but that’ll make it kinda hectic (your call).

World renowned for its wine selection (and for good reason), Napa is always buzzing with excitement (pardon the pun).  The Valley and surrounding areas boast more than 600 wineries, each with their own tasting room (and even more that are not accounted for.) It would take a lifetime to take a few sips at each, let alone in a few days. And therefore, it’s best to visit Napa with somewhat of a game plan, and I recommend the following vineyards/wineries: Sterling, Castello di Amorosa, Domaine Carneros, Artesa, Robert Mondavi, and V. Sattui.

9 Vineyards to Visit on your Next Trip to Napa Valley | www.apassionandapassport.com

Not a wino? You’ll still fall in love with Napa and/or Sonoma – I promise. There’s a whole long list of things to do in Napa besides drink , including olive-oil tasting (carb-loaded drizzled tastings, anyone?), ziplining through the redwoods, farmers market visits, wildflower hiking, and mud baths to tickle your fancy (yes, I just said mud baths). Looking to check something off your bucket list? Head out on an early morning balloon flight above the valley , worth the ridiculous AF wake-up call.

Additional Resources: Things to do in Napa Besides Drink Wine | My Favorite Vineyards in Napa | Hot Air Ballooning over the Valley | A Stay at Andaz Napa | A Girl’s Getaway to Napa Valley

Lake Tahoe is one of the prettiest lakes you’ll see in your lifetime, I can promise you that.  Not only is there wonderful skiing at Heavenly (during the winter months of course), but there’s tons of stuff to do for you non-skiers as well (myself included).  Take the gondola up for heavenly views of the lake, stuff your face with donuts, and go for a scenic drive around the lake. Lake Tahoe is a destination for any time of year, and we’ve visited in both summer and winter – and would go back again during each! 

best city trips usa

Don’t miss out on my favorite spots (especially in summer): Sand Harbor (an absolute gem in the Sierras with crystal clear water and magnificent boulders), Emerald Bay (just go – you won’t be disappointed), and Zephyr Cove.

Yosemite National Park

If rushing waterfalls, huge granite rock formations, and enough greenery to last for days is your thang, you’ve got to get yourself to Yosemite. Like yesterday. No matter how many times I visit (and it’s been a handful of times), I’m always longing for re-visits time and time again. I’ve seen the park in all it’s seasons ( winter was just wow! ), and I’ll never say no to a return trip. As soon as you reach the park, you’ll be blown away by Yosemite’s’ sheer size and magnitude, you’ll see.

Come read about all the best things to do in Yosemite in the winter; plenty of spectacular photo stops and short wintery hikes included! Psst: Yosemite in March was absolutely stunning!

During the snowy winter months, the crowds vanish, icicles dangle from tree branches, snowflakes coat the Valley, and the entire park is so calm and bright. A winter wonderland for sure! And don’t fret – Yosemite Valley is still open, so there’s still lots to do there.

Summer brings along plenty and plenty of hiking opportunities, with Valley Loop Trail, The 4-Mile Trail, Vernal/Nevada Falls, and Mist Trail offering pretty fantastic views. Don’t miss the chance to spot Half Dome (Yosemite’s most famous icon) from Glacier Point Road, and be sure to head towards El Capitan before you leave to search for some rock climbers! We thankfully saw a few on the massive granite rock formation and I just couldn’t believe my eyes (top tip – bring binoculars).

No matter the season, make sure to check out Tunnel View, and Mirror Lake, my two favorites.

Additional Resources: Visiting Yosemite National Park in the Winter | One Day in Yosemite from SF  

4. Savannah, GA and Charleston, SC

  • Driving Distance/Time: 107 miles | 2 hours
  • How to Split up the Time: 3 days Savannah | 1 day Hilton Head Island | 3 days Charleston

Psst – you could add in a stop along the way to Hilton Head Island if you want some beach time!

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA (3 ½ days)

Savannah, Georgia is one of the most charming cities in the Southern United States. Savannah is a rather small city that can be explored almost entirely on foot. Visiting Savannah feels like a step back in time and the city is best enjoyed at a slow pace. Stroll from one romantic square to another and admire the gorgeous oak trees covered in Spanish moss. Sit by the pretty fountains and look up the many elegant antebellum mansions.

The picture opportunities are endless in Savannah so no need to put the camera away… be ready to snap a beautiful shot at every corner!

best city trips usa

Two to three days is the perfect amount of time to enjoy Savannah. The city is built around 22 public squares, which are pretty much small parks. Visiting the city is all about wandering through the pretty squares (and potentially doing so while sipping a cocktail in a to go cup since Savannah is one of the only cities in the US allowing open containers!). Lafayette Square, Oglethorpe Square and Chippewa Square are three must sees.

Another gorgeous spot is Forsyth Park and the many rows of live oaks: the park is the perfect place to relax and have a picnic under the Spanish moss. Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah is one of the most famous graveyards in the US, and also one of the most picturesque.

Visit Little Gracie’s grave and keep an eye out for ghosts, as Bonaventure is said to be haunted by various roaming spirits. 

Last but not least, Savannah is the perfect place to sample authentic Southern Comfort Food. Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room and The Pink House are two of the most delicious food spots in the city, but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Just make sure to enjoy each meal with a copious side of buttery flaky biscuits! 

HILTON HEAD (optional and along route)

best city trips usa

This island off the coast of South Carolina is a perfect spot to break up the short drive between Savannah and Charleston, so why not make a short pit stop?! Golf lover? Don’t miss Hilton Head, as there’s quuiteee a few courses you’ll wanna play at. Beach lover? You’re in luck – the sand is incredible (it’s regularly voted as one of the best vacation destinations in the world…).

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA (3 ½ days)

Charleston oozes southern charm in the unlikeliest of places. It boasts food, architecture, history in it’s cultural centre accompanied with sports, beaches and majestic plantations on the surrounding low-lying islands. You could be fine dining on the famous Shrimp and Grits at 82 Queen St one night and enjoy freshly shucked oysters over a couple of cold beers at a rustic Bowen’s Island another night.

Weekend in Charleston Itinerary

Visit Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the civil war were fired or take in the somewhat somber Slavery museum. Alternatively, head out to Riley Park baseball field to watch the RiverDogs play. You may even find owner Bill Murray sitting next to you in the bleachers! In summer, the lively Folly Beach has sun, sand and surf with live bands playing on the open patio of the Crab Shack most nights of the week.

The best part about Charleston is what can’t be replicated, the people. You could be buying a t-shirt on Church St or taking in live music at the Pour House on James Island and you’ll inevitably spark up a friendly conversation with a well-meaning local. They’ll be genuinely interested in where you’ve come from and make sure you make the most of your time in their city.

Additional Resources: The Forgotten Fort of Charleston by Sling Adventures  | Inspiring Photos of Charleston by Wandering Sunsets

5. Oahu and Maui

  • Flight Time from West Coast: ~5 hours | Flight time from East Coast: ~10 hours
  • How to Split up the Time: 4 days in Maui | 3 days in Oahu

If you know me (at least a little bit) by now, you’ll know that I’m always up for a trip to Hawaii, and crafting the perfect week-long excursion to Oahu and Maui is no exception. Trust me, all the islands are perfection (I’m low-key obsessed with the state), but if it’s your first time to Hawaii, I highly recommend splitting your time between Oahu and Maui. 

OAHU (3 days)

On Oahu you’ve got to sip mai tais on the beach at The Royal Hawaiian, hike up Diamond Head, snorkel at Hanauma Bay, pay your respects at Pearl Harbor, and spend some time on Lanikai Beach and Waimea Bay. And don’t miss out on all these places to stuff your face in Oahu (there’s lots of good stuff to choose from, including tons of shave ice, poke, and acai bowl recs). A 3-day Oahu itinerary is currently in the works – watch this space!

best city trips usa

MAUI (4 days)

Maui is hands down one of my favorite islands of Hawaii (actually, what the heck, I love ‘em all). I’ve visited a few times, and have compiled all my knowledge in a 5-Day Maui itinerary , which you can pick and choose from in order to have sufficient time in Oahu as well. On Maui I highly recommend driving the Road to Hana , waking up at an ungodly hour to watch the sunrise at Haleakala, snorkeling at Black Rock, Molokini, and Turtle Town (eeeee), visiting Napili Bay and Paia, hanging out in Lahaina for some sunset cocktails.

If you’re feeling extra frisky and wanna see Maui from above, book yourself on a Maui helicopter tour – I promise it’ll be one of the most spectacular things you do all week.

Headed to Hawaii and looking for a Maui itinerary that’ll show you the best of the best of the island? Keep reading for the perfect 5 days in Maui, which will cover everything from sunrise at Maui’s famous volcano, snorkeling with sea turtles, a drive down the famed (and for good reason) Road to Hana, and more shave ice than you ever thought possible.

EXTRA TIME? KAUAI! (3 days)

Annnnd if you have even more time to spare (who needs a job, anyway?), you may as well add a few days in Kauai to your Hawaii trip. The Na Pali coast is worthy of a few extra vacation days, I promise. You can quickly and easily fly from island to island, so take advantage if you’re already all the way over here in the middle of the Pacific (especially if you’re coming from the East Coast).

Heading off to Hawaii and looking for the perfect Kauai itinerary? Good choice! Read on for the ultimate way to spend 3 days in Kauai!

Additional Resources: 3 Days in Kauai |  5 Day Maui Itinerary | Helicopter Tour above Maui | Snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town | Where to Eat in Maui | Where to Eat in Oahu  | Driving the Road to Hana

6. Albuquerque and Santa Fe, New Mexico

  • Driving Distance/Time : 65 miles | 1 hour
  • How to Split up the Time: 3 ½ days Albuquerque | 3 ½ days Santa Fe

ALBUQUERQUE

The hardest part about visiting Albuquerque is spelling Albuquerque. Once you’ve got that figured out, exploring the largest city in New Mexico is a breeze. It’s known for its historic Old Town, a square anchored by an 18th century church and surrounded by local shops and museums. This is where the town began, and these aren’t your typical tourist traps. 

best city trips usa

Even the restaurants are historic. Church Street Cafe, topped by metallic musicians and introduced by a sign surrounded by prickly pear, is in the oldest building in Albuquerque. Go mid-afternoon and you can score some half-price appetizers. 

After lunch, slither on over to the American International Rattlesnake Museum, where they’ve got more varieties of rattlesnakes than the Bronx Zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, the National Zoo, the Denver Zoo, the San Francisco Zoo, and the San Diego Zoo combined.

If that gives you the heebie-jeebies, leave the willies behind with a tour of the Coronado Historic Site. Despite the name, not much of Coronado is mentioned at this site on the Rio Grande. The focus is on the Kuaua Pueblo, which was the original town before the Spaniards arrived. You can even step inside a kiva with murals that have been painstakingly restored.

Additional Resources : Things to do in Old Town, Albuquerque by the Local Tourist, The Perfect Weekend in Albuquerque   

Santa Fe is one of those places that you roll into and immediately like. Its Old Town is charming, lively and lived in. Start your visit with a walking tour led by a docent from the New Mexico History Museum for a dose of local color and history.  

Afterward, shop for Native American jewelry along the wall of the Palace of the Governors. Sellers need to qualify for the right to sell here. All items are authentic, some of the artisans are quite good and their prices are reasonable. 

best city trips usa

At some point you’ll want a chili-cheeseburger and local beer from The Burger Stand at Burro Alley. The Shed has tasty prickly pear margaritas and good enchiladas. You can’t go wrong with either the drinks or the view from the rooftop bar at the historic La Fonda Hotel . 

Drag yourself away from downtown to experience MeowWolf, a funky interactive fun house built by a local artists’ collective. Be sure to stroll up Canyon Road for its eclectic assortment of art galleries and outdoor sculptures. This is the neighborhood for pricey, stylish restaurants. ButMilad Bistro, which serves up excellent Persian tapas, is stylish and inexpensive.

Contributed by Eileen from Families Go Travel

7. Death Valley and Las Vegas

  • Driving Distance/Time: 125 miles | 2 hours
  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days Las Vegas | 3 days Death Valley

LAS VEGAS (4 Days)

Vivaaaaa Las Vegas.  Bachelorette parties, stag weekends, and crazy clubbing until the wee hours of the night probably come to mind when initially thinking of Las Vegas. BUT! It’s all that and more. 

It’s hotels are huge, casinos legendary, and you can hobnob with some Hollywood A-listers too when you play there! But don’tchu worry, there’s plenty of things to do in Vegas besides gamble (like, a whole lot). From animal encounters and bulldozer driving to hiking in National Parks and stuffing your face with more treats than you can imagine, Vegas is overpowering and dramatic in more ways than one. I wrote up a whole long list of things to do in Vegas besides gambling , so be sure to check that out if you’re looking to get away from the casinos for a bit.

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But after a day or two on the strip, you’ll start going insane. DO NOT STAY IN VEGAS PROPER THE ENTIRE DURATION OF YOUR STAY. I repeat. Do not spend your entire 4 days in the city of Las Vegas itself.

I highly suggest you get outta the city on a day trip or two (or three), and can personally recommend visiting The Valley of Fire and the Grand Canyon West Rim . The Hoover Dam is worthy of a day trip as well, and the Red Rocks are something special to add to your Las Vegas list, too.

DEATH VALLEY (3 Days)

Travel ~120 miles(2 hours)  southwest to Death Valley, and you’ll come across the largest national park of the lower 48 states. Yup, its larger than large, and you’ll definitely want a few days to properly explore the different sections within the park → there is a lot of ground to cover afterall! The park is most famous for its lowest point in North America, at 282 feet below sea level (you’ll want to visit Badwater Basin for sure).

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Death Valley is actually the hottest place on Earth (true story), and in the summer months (May-September) temperatures average over 100°F (38°C), and often exceed 120°F (49°C). While it is safe to visit, be sure to keep hydrated, stay on paved roads, and listen to your body.

When planning your visit to Death Valley, be sure to add the following into your itinerary: Badwater Basin (it is the lowest point in North America afterall), Artist’s Palette (a real-life geologic rainbow!), The Racetrack (where the rocks move), Zabriskie Point (the most famous viewpoint in the park), Devil’s Golf Course (an immense area of eroded rock salt), Dante’s View, and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes (the largest dune field in the park).

I haven’t made it to Death Valley just yet, but when I do, I can’t wait to feast my eyes on the otherworldly salt flats (the ones on our road trip across America seemed to stretch on forever, so I can’t wait to see these).

Just remember that both locations get super super hot, with temps averaging in the 90s and 100s, easily. The scorching heat is definitely no fun, so consider visiting in the winter, where highs are at a much more comfortable 70°F.

8. Texas Hill Country

  • Driving Distance/Time : 150 miles | 2 ½ hours 
  • How to Split up the Time : 3 days in Austin | 3 days in San Antonio | 2 days in Smaller Towns within Hill Country

Itching for some small-town charm and eclectic city culture all in one trip? Perfect, because this US itinerary in Texas Hill Country surely has all that (and more).

When people think of Texas, a few things come to mind – cowboys, ranches, football, and big cities, but what about award-winning wine, music festivals, secret swimming holes, river tubing, cave exploring, and rolling hills? You can find all of these attractions and more in the Texas Hill Country. From small towns you never heard of to well-known cities like Austin and San Antonio, the Texas Hill Country is a vast area with some of the best things to do in the entire state!

The Perfect Weekend in Austin Texas: 3 Days in Austin Itinerary

Read Next: Mini Guide to Austin (including all the must-eats)

Since Austin and San Antonio are the two biggest cities in the Texas Hill Country, they are the best cities to begin your trip before you branch out to the beautiful surrounding areas. I’ve included additional information down below for Austin since I just love it oh so much.

Furthermore, they both hold the two biggest music festivals in the state, Austin City Limits, and SXSW Music Festival. 

Option 1: A weekend in San Antonio is a must. You can visit the historical Alamo, enjoy the River Walk, and Six Flags (if that’s your thing – it sure is mine!) before driving north to explore hidden caves at Natural Bridge Caverns. As you keep heading north in the Texas Hill Country, you will come across a quaint city, New Braunfels, where you can have fun in the sun. New Braunfels is known for the epic water park, Schlitterbahn and tubing down the Guadalupe River!

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Option 2: For another fun week in the Texas Hill Country, start in Austin exploring the capital of Texas before heading west to the hidden swimming pools, Hamilton Pool Reserve and Jacob’s Well. Then to finish your week in the Texas Hill Country, visit the charming city of Fredericksburg. Fredericksburg is the wine country of Texas boasting over 50 wineries! There are daily wine shuttles and the cutest bed and breakfasts to help create the perfect trip for a romantic getaway or a girls weekend in Fredericksburg. 

Additional Resource: A Girl’s Weekend in Fredericksburg by Our Sweet Adventure

9. Nashville and Memphis -or- Great Smoky Mountains

  • Driving Distance/Time : 210 miles | 3 hours
  • How to Split up the Time : 3-4 days in Nashville | 4 days in Memphis | 2 days in Great Smoky Mountains

A city known around the world for country music, hot chicken, and Jack Daniel’s whiskey, Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country both for residents and visitors. Despite being known for the above, Nashville has something to offer absolutely everyone. So, put on those cowboy boots and hold on to your hat. 

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You can enjoy everything from fine dining to a hole in the wall diner and tasting your away around the 19 breweries in the city to a winery owned by a country music star. Looking to work off the extra calories that Nashville is sure to pack on? Explore the vast number of hiking trails, waterfalls, and parks surrounding the city – Radnor Lake and the Warner Parks are favorites amongst locals. 

Make sure not to miss – the view from the pedestrian bridge downtown, a night out on Lower Broad (once might be enough!), seeing the only exact replica of the Parthenon (yes, the one in Greece!), and strolling around the 12South and East Nashville neighborhoods.

Additional resource: Nashville Tourist Attractions by Wild Hearted

Memphis is known for music and BBQ, and it delivers on these and so much more. This city in the South has a long and complicated history. It’s where Elvis built Graceland, where millions of tourists still flock to see how “the King” lived. It’s where Martin Luther King Jr was gunned down at the Lorraine Motel which is now the Civil Rights Museum. There are so many fun things to do in Memphis, but food and music are at the heart of everything in this city on the Mississippi River.

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Make sure you get out on the river at least once during your visit to Memphis. You can take a kayaking tour, or hop on a paddlewheel boat for a cruise. If a visit to Graceland is on your wishlist, you’ll want a car as it’s somewhat outside of downtown. Take a walking tour of downtown, checking out street art, public art and museums like the Stax Museum of Soul Music. When it’s time to eat, there are way too many choices.

Check out Central BBQ, Gus’s Fried Chicken, Loflin Yard, Railgarten and the Old Dominick Distillery which has a killer rooftop. End your day at world-famous Beale Street, where live music wafts out of every doorway, spilling into the streets.

Additional Resources: Things to do in Memphis by Campfires and Concierges

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Established in 1940, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular of all the U.S. National Parks, getting around 9 million visitors each year. That’s partially due to its awesome location about halfway between Knoxville, Tennessee and Asheville, North Carolina, which is a half-day’s drive from most of the major cities along the east coast. But of course the area’s stunning natural beauty, diverse array of wildlife, and rich Appalachian culture could also have something to do with it. 

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Approximately 95% of the park’s 522,419 acres are lush green forests that are teeming with flora and fauna, with 10,000 plant and animal species that include black bears, deer, birds, and much more. There are also 16 mountains in the park with summits of 6,000 feet or more; nearly 900 miles of hiking trails; and driving tours that provide gorgeous views at places like Cade’s Cove, Clingman’s Dome, and Newfound Gap Road. 

Hiking (including part of the Appalachian Trail), fishing, and camping are the park’s most popular tourist activities, and it’s also the starting point for road trips along the world-renowned Blue Ridge Parkway.

If you want to visit the park, autumn is the perfect time. Not only because of smaller crowds of tourists, cooler weather, and richer colors in the leaves, but also because that’s when the famous Cataloochee Valley elk herd (which was reintroduced back in 2001) is in rut. Come for the scenery, but stay for the crazy elk mating call!

Additional Resources: Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide (nearby) by Bret Love 

10. Oregon Road Trip

  • Driving Distance/Time: 775 miles | 17 hours (round trip Portland)
  • How to Split up the Time: 2 days Portland | 1 day waterfalls and Mt. Hood | 1 day Bend | 1 day Crater Lake | 2 days Oregon Coast | 

Looking for shimmering lakes, snowy mountain tops, and enough craft beer to last a lifetime? Get ready for an Oregon road trip, my Pacific-Northwest-craving friends. 

A week’s kinda ambitious to cover all this territory in Oregon, but it’s definitely doable! In order to complete this road trip is about a week’s time, you’ll have to drive a few hours almost every day.

Planning a trip to Oregon in the near future? Check out this Portland itinerary, full of great foodie spots, waterfall hikes, and vista points! See all the highlights in 3 days in Portland!

Portland, Oregon is best known for its delectable donuts, snobby coffee culture, orgasmic food, and, of course, for being weird. It is their slogan after all! One of the big draws of the city is all it’s eating (and drinking – the beer and coffee kind), so make sure you account for lots of face stuffing during your 2 days or so in Portland.

Don’t miss: Pok Pok, Salt and Straw, Blue Star Donuts, Pine State Biscuits, Fried Egg I’m in Love, VooDoo Donut, and Tov Coffee. When you need a break from eating check out the International Rose Test Garden, Tilikum Crossing, Powell’s City of Books, and Pittock Mansion.

It’s waterfall time! Check out a bunch on the Columbia River Gorge, including the most famous of them all – Multnomah Falls. Looking up at the 600+ foot tall roaring cascade of icy water is awe-inspiring, to say the least! Make a short pit stop at Rowena Crest to see the insane bend in the road, then continue on to Mt. Hood for a wander and some lunch!

Next up, if you’re visiting in the summer months, is Hood River Lavender Farm, before making your way to Trillium Lake and Timberline Lodge.

Planning a trip to Oregon in the near future? Check out this Portland itinerary, full of great foodie spots, waterfall hikes, and vista points! See all the highlights in 3 days in Portland!

Feel free to make a short pit stop at Smith Rock State Park before you reach Bend – those scenic views of the deep river canyons sure are something! If you’re up for a workout on tons of switchbacks, head up to Misery Ridge for dramatic views of the entire canyon and nearby rock formations. 

Located between the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Mountains and the high desert plateaus of Central Oregon, Bend really has it all, and then some. Because of its prime location for outdoor activities (think hiking, biking, river sports, etc), you’ll find a ton of sporty enthusiasts living the rugged lifestyle. Don’t leave without doing a brew tour (DIY or with a guide). 

Crater Lake National Park has got to be one of the most mesmerizing places I’ve been to date, and thankfully, it’s up next on this Oregon road trip. With its calm dazzling blue waters, scenic highways, and super starry night skies, you can be sure you’ll never forget your visit to Crater Lake. And that’s a promise! If you want to ensure you’ll be able to drive around the perimeter of the lake (Rim Drive), schedule your trip for late July, August, or September. 

Heading to Oregon and wondering what all the things to do in Crater Lake are?! Click through for the best hikes, best viewpoints, where to stay, and what to eat - exactly what you need to plan your own visit to Crater Lake!

Finallllly, it’s coast time, and time to head back north to Portland! You’ll see Coos Bay, home to the Cape Arago Beach Loop, which is where I’d spend ½ day or so. There’s a whole slew of stops between Coos Bay and Cannon Beach, and while you won’t be able to hit every one, pick out a few to explore !

Finally, the last official stop on this Oregon coast road trip, the one and only Cannon Beach. Here at Cannon Beach, you’ll find the famous and ever-so-popular Haystack Rock (it’s a sight to be seen).

Additional Resources: The Perfect Oregon Road Trip Itinerary | 3 Days in Portland | Winter Weekend in Bend | Top Things to do in Crater Lake

11. Los Angeles and San Diego

  • Driving Distance/Time : 120 miles | 2 hours 
  • How to Split up the Time: 4 days LA/Santa Monica | 3 days San Diego

LOS ANGELES

Californiaaaa, knows how to party (cue the music). When you think of Los Angeles, you probably think of the Beach Boys, surfing, and celebrities. While this is all true, LA is much more than that! You can get to the beach, mountains, desert, and the forest within an hour, which makes your vacation filled with infinite possibilities! But with only 4 days or so in the city, you’ll have to make some smart choices with how you wanna spend your time. The city and surrounding areas are pretty spread out, so I recommend splitting your time between Downtown LA (DTLA), and Santa Monica/Venice.

Heading to Southern California soon? Make sure to check out these hot spots in LA, Santa Monica, and Venice, including the best food, murals, and museums! LA and Santa Monica are full of character and are super trendy!

In DTLA, be sure to check out the Broad Museum, the Disney Concert Hall, Eggslut (OMFG Eggslut), the Bradbury Building, The Last Bookstore, LA Arts District, and Little Tokyo (my fave).

In Santa Monica/Venice, add Sidecar Donuts, Santa Monica beach, Venice Beach boardwalk (with Muscle Beach), the Venice canals, the Santa Monica Pier, and Abbot Kinney Blvd to your few days in the area.

You can also check out Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Beverly Hills/Rodeo Drive, The Getty Villa, The Grove, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood, and Melrose Avenue. There’s oh sooo much to do in the area, it’s a tad overwhelming. 

If you’ve never been, I encourage you to check out this 1-day LA itinerary which covers all the typical LA hot spots, and then fill it in with this itinerary (full of donuts, murals, and spectacular scenic spots). And whatever you do, get wild at In-n-Out Burger – animal style.

Once you’ve spent the last few days running around, it’s time to relax and take it easy a few hours south in San Diego.

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While you’re here, make sure to check out Balboa Park (beautiful and over 1,200 acres!), the famous Hotel del Coronado (have dinner here!), Old Town, the Cabrillo National Monument, and Belmont Park (a beachside amusement park with a cool retro vibe)! And my absolute favorite? La Jolla Cove! I’ve been when I was little but I NEED to get back there soon to see all the seals and sea lions!

12. Portland and Acadia National Park, Maine

  • Driving Distance/Time : 175 miles | 3 hours
  • How to Split up the Time: 3 ½ days Portland | 3 ½ days Acadia

I’m not so sure why it took me so long to make my way over to Maine, and Portland in particular. But after our few days there, I’m longing to go back, and sooner than later at that.

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Make sure to spend your few days in Portland stuffing your face with as much lobster as humanly possible (no joke- we had lobster rolls everyday for lunch), indulge in sea salted duck fat caramel milkshakes (yes, it’s a thing there), admire the views from the Portland Observatory, taste-tested everything blueberry imaginable, take a free brew tour at Allagash Brewing Company (free beers included), and head on over to Ogunquit and Kennebunkport for a day. Don’t miss out on the whoopie pies, visit the Portland Head Light (I have a thing for lighthouses, okay?), cruise Casco Bay on a Mailboat run (look it up!), and if the timing’s right, you could even watch a Sea Dogs minor-league baseball game!

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

Acadia National Park is filled with so many enjoyable activities. There are hikes, beaches, climbing, excellent seafood, and exceptional photography spots. The atmosphere is intoxicating, and the views are stunning. 

One of the best activities to do in Acadia is to watch the sunrise on top of Cadillac Mountain. It is the first place to experience the sunrise in the continental USA from October through March. The colors of the sun reflecting from the ocean make it glorious. But keep in mind that you need to get up around 3-4 am to see this spectacle. It can get extremely crowded as well, so be prepared for the hordes of people. 

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Another fun thing to do is to hike the Precipice Trail. It is one of the most unique hikes you will ever do. A vast majority of the trail, you will have to climb up metal ladders. It is not a trail for people that are afraid of heights, but if you can get over the fear the views are worth it. You will stand on top of the mountain with glorious views of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Another favorite activity is to watch the sunset at the Bass Harbor Lighthouse. You will have to fight off people from taking your spot most likely, but getting that perfect lighthouse picture is worth this little adventure!

Additional Resources: Things to do in Acadia by The Wandering Queen 

13. Montreal and Quebec City, Canada

  • Driving Distance/Time: 255 km | 2 hours, 45 min via car, or 3 hours, 15 min via train
  • How to Split up the Time : 3 days Montreal | 4 days Quebec City

Yeahhhh, so Montreal and Quebec City surely aren’t in the US, but I just couldn’t leave it off this list of best USA itineraries (ha!). They’re SO close to the states and make a wonderful week away. Just don’t forget to pack your passport!

Ever since I heard of the cities’ European-like status and abundance of maple ice cream, I just knew this eastern Canadian area was right up my alley. Oh, and poutine. POUTINE! If you’re looking for a one-week USA itinerary that’s actually not in the US (ha!), go check out Montreal. I’m literally begging you. If you’ve been depriving yourself of the greasy gooey goodness, go check this Canadian city off your food bucket list. Psst: there’s also smoked meat sandwiches, fancy chocolates, montréalais pastries, and famous Montreal Bagels from St-Viateur Bagel.

Looking for things to do in Montreal? You're in the right place! I just returned home from a weekend in Montreal and can't wait to share all my favorites!

Don’t leave without enjoying the beauty of the Basilica (it’s just marvelous), wandering around the Old Port (complete with food trucks and boats Saint Lawrence river), visit one of the markets (Jean-Talon and/or Atwater), browse the boutiques and street art of the Mild End, take photos in Plateau Mont-Royal, and admire the sky-high views at Au Sommet. But my two favorite spots: Old Montreal and the Underground City.

Additional Resources: Long Weekend Trip to Montreal

QUEBEC CITY

If you’ve never been to Quebec City before, just hop on over from Montreal and check it out (it’s a quick train ride away, so super easy to visit together in a week)! And if you’re coming from the states, it’s just a two hour drive north from Maine. And once you arrive in this historic french speaking city, you’ll most definitely feel like you’ve landed in Europe. But nope, it’s definitely still Canada! 

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Old Quebec City is the place you wanna be, especially considering all the gorgeous architecture and first class restaurants. But be sure to bring your walking shoes for the hilly, cobblestone streets of Old Quebec as you won’t wanna waste precious time with foot problems! Most notably, this is the only walled city north of Mexico, which is a reason to visit in and of itself.. 

The striking Chateau Frontenac greets you from atop a hill in Old Quebec. Don’t be afraid to enter this “castle” hotel and take a look around in its lavish lobby. Or grab a drink in one of the cafes or restaurants. Outside the Chateau, take a look around in all the boardwalk shops. Or stop to watch the buskers perform. The world castle is yours for everyone to enjoy! 

And once your done at the castle, sign up for a food tour and sample some of the yummy french cuisine (poutine, anyone? Anyone?!). Or take a ride on the ferry down the St. Lawrence River for just $5 and see some great views from the water. Or ride the Funicular cable car from upper and lower Old Quebec for a glimpse of all the ships. There’s also a bunch of museums you could check out. Yeah, there’s a lot to do here.

Quebec City holds a lot of history. So before you leave be sure to visit one of the many museums to learn about this fascinating city. 

Additional Resources: Best Beaches in Ontario by Two Travelling Toques

14. Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days in CDMX | 3 days in San Miguel

I recently spent a week exploring Mexico City (dubbed CDMX) and San Miguel de Allende , and have got to say, I was pleasantly surprised in the best ways possible.  And since we already included Canada in this list of USA itineraries, maaaay as well throw in Mexico too, right? 😉

MEXICO CITY

If you’re looking for colorful cities full of vibrant culture, numerous neighborhoods to explore both day and night, and exciting half-day trips, you’ll be wow-ed with all that Mexico City and San Miguel have offer. There’s castles and canal rides, dog parks and green space. All my (wildly high) expectations were met and then some. Tacos al pastor. Tequila palomas. Frida Kahlo. Lucha Libre. Oh, and you can’t forget about the mezcal. Mexico is all that and waaaaay more.

Looking for the best day trips from Mexico City? If visiting magical towns and climbing ancient pyramids sounds fun, check out these Mexico City excursions!

Oh, and don’t forget to stuff your face. Mexico City is full of restaurants and street carts just begging to be indulged in. Chilaquiles. Avocado ice cream (my new obsession and muy muyyyy encanta). Late-night churros. Street tacos. I’d go back just for the food (ok, and all the puppies literally everywhere). Allll the things and places I ate in CDMX over here.

In your 4 days exploring Mexico City, be sure to walk around the Zocalo, have the best dinner (ever) at Pujol, visit Frida Kahlo’s house, wander some markets, take a canal ride at Xochimilco, climb up the pyramids at Teotihuacan, check out Chapultepec Castle and surround park, wander the trendy neighborhoods of La Condesa and Roma Norte, and go bat sh*t crazy at a Lucha Libre match. Sure seems like a lot, but we were able to squeeze in most of these during our trip to Mexico City .

SAN MIGUEL DE ALLENDE

After spending a few days in CDMX, bus on over to San Miguel! San Miguel is any art lovers dream – with it’s stunning colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, and all around fiestas (almost) everyday, I found myself falling for this picturesque little city as soon as I arrived.

→ Read Next: A Perfect Few Days Exploring San Miguel de Allende

Looking for the best day trips from Mexico City? If visiting magical towns and climbing ancient pyramids sounds fun, check out these Mexico City excursions!

Set high in the mountains of central Mexico, San Miguel is worthy of it’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status, filled with quaint cobblestoned streets, artisanal craft shops, nearby hot springs, and organic and inventive restaurants popping up every month. And with all the street art and brightly painted buildings, it’s practically bursting with color (just look at my photos throughout this post). I mean, what’s not to love?!

Again, not in the states per say, but close enough. With a plethora of non-stop flights from the US, with flight times shorter from most cities than flying cross-country (say from SFO to JFK), I thought adding this itinerary to the list was a-okay. Just remember you’ll need your passport!

Additional resources: 3 Days in Mexico City | What to Eat in CDMX | San Miguel de Allende Travel Guide

15. Philadelphia, PA and Washington D.C.(with Baltimore on the way)

  • Driving Distance/Time: 140 miles | 3 hours
  • How to Split up the Time: 3 days in Philly | 1 day in Baltimore | 3 days in Washington DC

PHILADELPHIA

On my latest trip to Philly we crammed in as many attractions (and local treats) as we possibly could, and started each morning early and ended each night late. We spent our time gallivanting around the streets (a good mix of cobblestone and paved roads), admiring the murals scattered around the city, shoving our mouths with treats from Reading Terminal Market, all while learning about some of the country’s most significant historic attractions.

2019 Year in Review - Philly

Make sure to include Love Park, Rittenhouse Square, Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Liberty Bell Center (an obvious Philly highlight), Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Betsy Ross’ house, and the Reading Terminal Market. 

Since you’ll be passing it anyways en route to Washington D.C., why not stop off in Baltimore for the day? Home to the Inner Harbor, the Orioles, and some mouth-watering crab dishes, Baltimore is Maryland’s largest city and you can certainly fill up your day quite easily. 

best city trips usa

WASHINGTON DC

I know what you’re thinking – the land of school field trips and museum after museum? Why should I visit when I’ve already visited in 5th grade?

Washington, DC is (of course) home to some of the most fascinating museums in the entire country, but if that’s not your thing, there are also tons of things to do outside of the main tourist attractions. Visit underground art galleries, see some amazing live performances, or simply walk around the waterfront in Georgetown.

A Weekend in Washington DC itinerary: The Perfect 3 Days in Washington DC

If you’re looking for some springtime, flowery fun, consider visiting during peak cherry blossom season – end of March, early April (weather dependent). I visited a few years back and I’m dying for a return trip to see all the pretty blooms again.

Additional Resources: 48 Hours in Philly | Best Things to do in Philadelphia | Where to Eat in Philly | 3 Days in Washington DC

16. Seattle and Mt. Rainier National Park, WA

  • Driving Distance/Time : 100 miles | 2 hours
  • How to Split up the Time : 5 days Seattle (with day trips) | 2 days Mt. Rainier 

Welcome to Seattle, dubbed the Emerald City and surrounded by mountains, forests, and water — oh, and the coffee and donuts in this part of the world are plentiful and then some.

You always hear about the gloominess and rain, never the sunshine and green space. From sculpture parks and waterfront activities, to bacon brie Belgian waffles and homemade mac and cheese , Seattle has a lot to offer. And then some. Seattleites, your secrets out! Mmmm I’m salivating just thinking about the Top Pot donuts.

chihuly garden and glass seattle

The first thing that pops in everyone’s mind (after rain, of course), is the Space Needle and Pike Place .  And while those are Seattle staples, there’s a whole other world to discover.

A few other Seattle suggestions for your few days in the city: take a harbor tour along the Puget Sound for unbeatable city and water views, check out the madness of the Museum of Pop Culture (formerly the EMP Museum), take photos at Olympic Sculpture Park, eat everything at Pike Place Market, visit the gum wall and the first Starbucks, and stuff your face with all the noms throughout the city . If you want something a bit different, consider a seaplane tour which  will provide you aerial views of all of Seattle’s most iconic sites (think the Space Needle and such). 

space needle seattle

If you’re itching to get out of the city, or just need to burn off a few of those delicious-donut-calories, go on a hike! Favorites include Rattlesnake Ledge, Thunder Knob Trail Hike at Diablo Lake (GORGEOUS but requires even more driving time), and Snoqualmie Falls, all ranging from easy to moderate with absolutely fantastic views. And once you get back, you can definitely say you earned your donut/s.

MT. RAINIER NATIONAL PARK

Looking southeast from Seattle, you’ll already see Mt. Rainier looming in the distance (it is the highest mountain in Washington afterall)! And after the quick 2 ½ hour drive, you’ll see just how huge the volcano really is! 

And the views just get better as the day goes on. Iconic. Majestic. Grandiose. Trust me, it’s hard to describe those views . No words truly capture that feeling you get staring up at it.  So, I’ll leave you with a photo instead.

mt rainier day trip

It’s one thing to see the mountain from afar, but it’s another to actually hike/snowshoe ON the volcano itself (yup, it’s actually a volcano – a dangerous one at that)! So, naturally, I highly encourage you to do just that! I promise the views will be all sorts of remarkable- you may even see the glacial ice in the distance on the mountain rather clear! Looked like the clearest and iciest blue I’ve ever laid eyes on.

A snowmobile would be another amazing way to see the scenery, if you’ve got the time and resources for that activity!

17. Vancouver and Victoria

  • Driving Distance/Time : 115 km | 3 hours (including ferry)
  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days Vancouver | 3 days Victoria

Funny thing – I added Vancouver and Victoria to this list of USA itineraries before I even remembered they were in Canada (a big ole’ whoops). But since they’re such a short flight away from so many big cities on the West Coast (Seattle, Portland, SF, etc), let’s keep them in, shall we? 🙂

Vancouver is absolutely gorgeous. And let’s just say, despite Vancouver being a (decently-sized) city and all, you’ll never feel deprived of nature – it’s got snow-capped mountains to the north and that deep blue Pacific Ocean to its left. It’s beauty has even made it on multiple “Most Beautiful Cities of the World” – including Forbes and Buzzfeed. And all that nature just gives way for tons of outdoor recreational activities – from skiing and snow sports in the winter to kayaking, hiking, camping, and biking most months outta the year. 

Planning a trip to Canada soon?! Check out this post for loads of helpful tips and best things to do in Vancouver!

Besides getting into nature (green space within the city included), Vancouver’s got a thriving art, theatre, and music scene, some of the freshest seafood you’ll find around (salmon lovers won’t leave hungry), and a local fave – BC Bud (yup, apparently marijuana is a big thing here). 

Spend 3-4 days strolling along Stanley Park, hitting up the beach (English Bay, Kitsilano Beach, and Jericho Beach are great choices), hiking up the Grouse Grind, getting high above the treetops at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, eating your way through the Granville Island Market, and spending an afternoon on the cobblestoned streets of Gastown.

Additional Resources: Top Things to do in Vancouver

Situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the city of Victoria is a stunner. Just a short ferry ride away from Vancouver, it is possible to visit as a day trip; however, spending a few days in Victoria will give you a better chance to explore BC’s capital city as well as the wild coasts and forests that make up Vancouver Island.

With a population of less than 100,000 people, Victoria is a rather small city, but it is packed with green space, trendy coffee shops and cafes, museums, perfectly manicured flower gardens, noteworthy British colonial architecture. Be sure to visit the Fisherman’s Wharf, which is a collection of colorful shops and seafood restaurants that are perched on a dock.

best city trips usa

Grab some fish and chips and keep a lookout for seals, which are commonly spotted frolicking in these waters. And while you’re here, don’t miss a once in a lifetime chance to go on a whale watching trip. These waters are one of the best places in the world to spot orca whales, and on a tour, you are almost guaranteed to see the lovable creatures splashing about in their ocean home. 

If you want to explore more of the island, you’ll have your share of adventures to choose from. If you’re a surfer, or just want to soak up some laidback beach town vibes, head to Tofino. For wine lovers, head north of Victoria on Highway 1 and you’ll have your share of vineyards and tasting rooms to choose from, several of which also have lavender fields.

For those who love nature and aren’t afraid to work up a sweat, hiking the Juan de Fuca Trail is a bucket-list-worthy trek. While covering the whole 47-kilometer trail will take 3 to 4 days, proper equipment and a bit of planning, you will be rewarded with rugged coastline, deserted beaches, and waterfalls that crash right into the ocean. But if you don’t have enough time to do it all, you can always do a smaller portion of the trail.

Whether you base yourself in Victoria and soak up the colonial architecture and foodie scene, or you want to get off the beaten path and adventure through the rest of Vancouver Island, a trip to this Canadian gem is sure to be an adventure!

Contributed by Two Wandering Soles

18. California Coast Road Trip

A road trip down the California Coast on the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an unforgettable way to see so much of what the state has to offer.  From waterfalls and castles (yes, really), to spectacular beaches and theme parks, there’s absolutely no shortage of things to do on the California Coast.

Looking for the best road trips in California? Whether you’ve got a long weekend or a full 2 weeks to explore, look no further - this huge post covers over 15 of the best California road trips!

→ Read Next: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary Guide

While there’s enough to do and see along the coast to fulfill a month-long trip, with only a week, I recommend starting in San Francisco (spend a day or so seeing the SF highlights if you’ve never been), 1 day in Monterey/Carmel, 1 day admiring Big Sur and San Simeon (for Hearst Castle), ½ day in Pismo for some dune bashing, then ½ day in San Luis Obispo, 1 day in Santa Barbara, then the rest of the time in LA/Santa Monica .

Sure, it’s a lot to cram in, but the spots aren’t really allll that far from each other, so it’s possible to see a lot in just one week. I could go on and on, but thankfully I’ve got quite a few articles on California as I’ve lived here for the past 5 years!

Heading to California and wondering what to do in Big Sur? Read on for my favorite Big Sur activities, where to stay, and (most importantly), what and where to eat! This Big Sur road trip itinerary will have you booking flights to California ASAP, promise!

It certainly doesn’t get more American than a road trip down the California Coast. 

Additional Resources: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip Itinerary Guide , Highlights of San Francisco , A Weekend in LA/Monica , Best Things to do in Big Sur , Top Sites of Sausalito , What to do in Santa Cruz

19. Glacier National Park and Coeur d’Alene

  • Driving Distance/Time : 240 miles | 4 hours
  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days in and around Glacier National Park | 3 days in Coeur d’Alene 

This one-week USA itinerary was just made for nature lovers. What’s better than spending a week along the lakes?! Hint – not much. Lakeside lounging, moderately intense hiking, and icy glaciers await.

COEUR d’ALENE:

If you like outdoor and water activities, small-town USA character, boutique shopping, and an array of dining, you’re going to love Coeur d’Alene. Situated on Lake Coeur d’Alene in northwest Idaho this charming town has all the makings for a fun-filled or relaxing vacation for all ages.

Known as the playground for the Pacific Northwest there are recreational activities year-round. In spring, summer, and fall you can enjoy hiking or biking the trails of Canfield Mountain Natural Area, boating and swimming in on of the many lakes in the area, golfing at a championship course, playing at Silverwood Theme Park, or just relaxing on the beaches of City Park.

Come winter there’s Silver Mountain Resort for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, or warm up and get wet at one of the indoor water parks. At any time of year, you can sample the tastes of local wineries and craft breweries, follow the colorful Art Walk, browse the many unique shops or rejuvenate with a spa day.

There’s also plenty of seasonal events and festivals like the Farmer’s Markets, Baconfest, theater cruises, concerts, and a fabulous Christmas light show and parade. There quite literally something for everyone in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Additional Resources: Guide to Coeur d’Alene (for all ages) by Live Dream Discover

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK:

Once you’ve had your share of relaxation (or not) in Coeur d’Alene, make your way over to Glacier for some more striking nature scenes. 

Stunning glacier hikes, serene nature and more wildlife than an issue of National Geographic awaits at Glacier National Park in far north Montana. Appropriately named after the icy glaciers that sit atop mountainous peaks, this US National Park has a perfectly diverse range of actives on offer. For adventure travelers wanting to summit the peaks and catch a glimpse of the glaciers, you can tackle Grinnell Glacier. It’s a relatively challenging hike that finishes with a picturesque view of the mountain lake and glacier emerging from the water. 

Visting Glacier National Park in the Winter: Complete Guide with Things to Do, Where to Stay, Road Closures, How to Get Around, and More!

If leisurely hiking is more you’re thing then there are plenty of calmer walks amongst nature. McDonald and Saint Mary are two massive lakes in the park that have short hike around the area. Just don’t forget your bear spray! Glacier National Park is a grizzly bear hotspot, with numerous sighting throughout the Spring. There are also mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk and plenty of bird watching.

If scenic drives are more your pace, take advantage of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a winding road that cuts across the park from south-west to north-east. Along the way you can stop off and enjoy a picnic lunch at various viewpoints… just stay on the lookout for Yogi!

Contributed by Don’t Forget to Move

20. Jackson Hole/Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park, WY

  • Driving Distance/Time : 70 miles | 1 ½ hours
  • How to Split up the Time: 4 days Jackson Hole/Grand Teton | 3 days Yellowstone

JACKSON HOLE + GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park are two of my favorite places in the US.  Sure, you may have to sell your soul to vacation there, but it’s totally worth it. With the main square surrounded by delicious restaurants, tons of art galleries, and enough shops to last a lifetime all full of western flair, Jackson has it all, Grand Teton National Park being the highlight.

best city trips usa

Grand Teton National Park is known for, well, the Teton mountain range, but also for its wildlife.  No matter what time of year you visit, make sure you do a wildlife safari. They will be able to take you to all of the best places to spot specific wildlife, like moose, bears, wolves, elk, and coyotes, at the best times.  If that’s out of your budget, you can easily do it yourself, just ask around about what to see where and when. Dawn and dusk are always great times, so keep your eyes peeled.  

There is also tons of hiking in the Tetons, whether you want to hike into canyons, along lakeshores, to waterfalls, or through prairie grasslands, they have it.  Rent kayaks or paddle boards and head out on Jackson or String Lake to see the park from a new perspective. 

Additional Resources: Hiking in Grand Teton National Park by Red Around the World 

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Imagine walking around the caldera of a super volcano.  In Yellowstone National Park, one can do just that. While scientists don’t believe the Yellowstone super volcano is at risk for erupting any time soon, the volcanic activity is seen through much of the park.   Your visit to Yellowstone should start with a visit to one of the many geyser basins. 

best city trips usa

Visitors come to see geysers and hot springs with creative names such as Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Steamboat or Fishing Cone.  Old Faithful Geyer of the Upper Geyser Basin is the most well-known in the park. It has a regular and mathematically predictable eruption schedule.  Many other geysers erupt on a semi-predictable schedule but none are as predictable. Please stay on the boardwalks in the geothermal areas. People have been boiled alive in these areas. 

Beyond the geothermal features, Yellowstone has scores of wildlife.  Bison and elk can be found throughout the park. If you are lucky, you have a chance to see grizzly bears, black bears, and/or wolves.  Keep a careful eye out or look for the large hordes of people looking in the same direction. Don’t be afraid to ask photographers with long lenses what they are doing.  You never know what they are looking at, and most are happy to share their wildlife sighting.

Additional Resources: One Day in Yellowstone National Park by National Park Obsessed

21. Boise and Hot Springs Road Trip

  • Driving Distance/Time : varies
  • How to Split up the Time : 5 days Boise | 2 days road tripping

Boise, Idaho, is probably exactly what you think of when you think of a city…small. However, what Boise lacks in size is made up by all their amazing restaurants, street art, and, believe it or not, it’s connection to Anne Frank.

weekend in boise

When visiting Boise, you have to visit Westside Drive In and order the famous Idaho Ice Cream Potato. No, no, it’s not ice cream made from potatoes. It’s hand-rolled vanilla ice cream that’s rolled in cocoa powder, sliced open to look like a potato, and loaded with whipped cream and crushed cookie crumbs. Y’all. Make it happen.

A popular attraction in Boise is the famous Freak Alley Gallery. If street art turns you on, then Boise literally has an entire alley dedicated to it. It’s in the center of downtown and surrounded by many restaurants and shops. If you want Instagrammable photos, head on over to Freak Alley for endless backdrops of urban art by local artist.

Additional Resources: Mini Travel Guide to Boise, Idaho by Time Zone Travelers

HOT SPRINGS MINI ROAD TRIP

With rugged snow-capped peaks and wild rivers, it doesn’t take much time to realize there is so much more to Idaho than potatoes. One of the best things about this underrated state is its abundance of natural hot springs. Sprinkled all throughout the state, you’ll find popular hot springs as well as those that are hard to get to and still somewhat secretive.

One of the most iconic hot springs in the state is situated just a short drive from the town of Salmon. And there’s no debating that Goldbug Hot Springs is the stuff dreams are made of. The hike to these picturesque hot springs is just under 2 miles and has an elevation gain just shy of 1,000 feet. When you see the idyllic pools set above a postcard valley, you’ll be happy you made the trek. 

Try soaking in the different pools, as they are all different temperatures. And if possible, bring a tent and spend the night. If it’s during the week, you might even have the place entirely to yourself. Oh, and be sure to pack a bottle of wine for a night that will surely be the highlight of your trip to Idaho!

Contributed by Katie from Two Wandering Soles

22. Denver and Colorado Springs

  • Driving Distance/Time: 70 miles | 1 hour, 15 minutes
  • How to Split up the Time: 5 days Denver (with Rocky Mountain NP) | 2 days Colorado Springs

Ah, the capital of Colorado, known for its high altitude, historic area of Larimer Square, and those stunning Rocky Mountains to the west.  Fast food lovers will be interested in the fact that the first cheeseburger was constructed over here in Denver in 1935 – I mean, how fun?!

One Day in Denver: How to (Easily) Plan A Super Fun Denver Itinerary

Do note that the city’s high altitude means the air is thinner (it ain’t called the Mile High City for nothin’), which may cause some altitude sickness. Just something to be aware of – don’t plan any difficult hikes your first day!

With a few days in Denver , be sure to go for a walk in Larimer Square (the city’s oldest block with tons of landmark 19th century buildings), check out the Denver Art Museum, and the Denver Botanic Gardens.

I recently visited a friend in Denver and we ended up spending the majority of our time together exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.  We spent our days hiking on the trails on the lookout for wildlife. Be sure to visit in October in order to witness the yearly antelope migration.  Also, watch out for bears and moose while hiking – we almost got attacked (no joke)!

COLORADO SPRINGS

Colorado Springs, located just a little bit over an hour’s drive south from Denver, is truly a must-visit in the gorgeous Centennial State! Whether you’re looking for insanely scenic drives, wondrous hiking trails, or stunning mountain views – Colorado Springs will surely leave you speechless! Spend a day exploring the famous Garden of the Gods national park, enjoy the sounds of the cascading Broadmoor Seven Falls, or if you’re up for a real adventure – embark on a hike to the top of Pike’s Peak!

Day Trips from Denver: Garden of the Gods

No matter where you are in the city, you’ll be able to look up to the massive Rocky Mountain range, which the sunsets dips beneath every night lighting up the sky in an array of pastel colors! It’s completely beautiful all year long, but I’d say the best time to visit is the fall, to witness the changing of the vibrantly colored leaves!

It’s definitely one of the best destinations to visit in Colorado, and perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers! You could even time a visit during one of the many incredible music festivals in Colorado which happen quite regularly!”

Contributed by Dave from Jones Around the World

23. New York City and the Hudson River Valley

  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days NYC | 3 days Hudson River Valley

NEW YORK CITY

New York is overwhelming, intoxifying, magical, and a dreamland all at once. It’s a city of dreams, and no, the city really doesn’t ever sleep. There’s always something going on, whether it be a random Tuesday night or a Sunday afternoon. If you’re considering a trip to NYC – make the leap, you’ll find yourself booking another ticket back sooner than later. Maybe I’m biased because I basically grew up there, going on field trips to the Empire State Building and Ellis Island, but really, New York is something special. 

new york city weekend

The Empire State Building is by far the most iconic building in all of New York City, and a visit to NYC wouldn’t be complete without witnessing this famous landmark. You can take a tour and go to the top, but personally, I would save that experience for Top of the Rock.  It’s beauty at night (all lit up) and shouldn’t be missed!

Some of my other favorite spots in the High Line, going to a Yankee or Met game (baseball is huge here!), wandering throughout chaotic Times Square, catching a Broadway show, and stuffing yourself silly in Little Italy and Chinatown. And ya can’t forget about Central Park!

Additional Resources: First Timer’s Guide to NYC | NYC in Winter

HUDSON VALLEY

Do you fancy eating pizza and drinking cider in an apple orchard?  Are you up for getting lost in a corn maze? Do you crave picking your own summer fruit?  Does hiking to waterfalls, swimming in lakes and picnicking on cliff tops sound like fun? If so, then the Hudson Valley is the perfect addition to any trip to NYC. 

best city trips usa

There are artist studios, historic mansions and FDR’s presidential library.  You can go antiquing, enjoy art in Beacon and Storm King sculpture park, and stroll across a pedestrian bridge over the Hudson River.  Summer is a perfect time for dining by the river, sailing on the Hudson River from Kingston, and visiting (or even staying in) one of the lighthouses along the river.  You can also have a picnic and catch a movie in an old-school drive-in in Hyde Park or Poughkeepsie.

Fall has spectacular color, pumpkin picking, and farmers’ markets (read more about fall in the Hudson Valley here ).  To keep active, try horseback riding and kayaking in the spring or cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.  There is so much to do throughout the year, you will want to go back!

Contributed by James Ian at Travel Collecting

24. Boston, MA and Newport, RI

  • Driving Distance/Time : 75 miles | 1 ½ hours
  • How to Split up the Time : 5 days Boston | 2 days Newport

It’s safe to say that Boston is a city filled with historical facts just around each and every corner.  Despite being a prominent city in US history, the largest city in New England has so much more to offer. The luscious green parks are abundant, the long waterfront walks are plentiful, and the amount of shopping will surely make any woman smile. Being one of America’s oldest cities, it’s safe to say that there are a ton of activities to keep busy.

Compared to New York (a city that spans over 305 square miles, versus a measly 48), Boston is much smaller and therefore way more realistic for a long weekend. There’s still a wide array of activities, but not too much to make it seem overwhelming.

best city trips usa

Don’t miss Boston Common, the Public Garden (my favorite), Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Quincy Market, a food tour in the North End (giant cannolis from Mike’s Pastry included!), the Boston HarborWalk, and a stroll on luxurious Newbury Street. OH! You can’t leave Boston without catching a game at historic Fenway Park! Get tickets beforehand, and hang out at the stadium prior to the game feasting on sausages and hot dogs from nearby food carts.

And plus, Boston is a foodies paradise. With its location being so close to the water, you can easily find lots of fresh seafood to indulge in– lobster and fish + chips included! 

Additional Resources: Weekend Guide to Boston | Where to Eat in Boston

If you wanna get outta the big city, head on over to Newport , a charming little town just a bit south in the tiny state of Rhode Island. Set on Aquidneck Island, here you’ll find a yacht-filled harbor and tons of impressive mansions (on Bellevue Avenue) just waiting to be explored. The most famous of these mansions-turned-museums is The Breakers, which was built a long, long time ago in 1895, and actually built to resemble a Renaissance palace! Lot’s of wow factors over here.

best city trips usa

Don’t miss the Cliff Walk, a long 3.5 mile path along the water which passes by not only The Breakers, but The Marble House and other notable mansions as well.

25. Chicago, IL and Milwaukee, WI

  • Driving Distance/Time: 95 miles | 1 ½ hours
  • How to Split up the Time : 4 days Chicago | 3 days Milwaukee

Visitors to Chicago can expect to find a vibrant city bustling with activity any time of year. On any given summer weekend, locals and tourists alike will be out in full force, making the most of the sunshine and glorious weather. There will be farmers’ markets on any given day, festivals, and crowds galore, but that only adds to the merriment. Full of bold architecture full of skyscrapers, a multitude of museums, and that world famous mirrored bean! OH! And deep dish pizza, how could I forget?! Mmmm… now I’m hungry just thinking about Giordanos. 

Planning a trip to the windy city soon?! Check out this post for loads of helpful tips and best things to do in Chicago!

Willis Tower and its Skydeck Ledge (a glass box, 1353 feet in the air, extending out four feet from the side of the building) offers views spanning four states on a clear day. 

Voted the #1 museum in the world, The Art Institute of Chicago has more than 300,000 works of art, spanning the centuries. From Ancient Greece and China to the Renaissance and Impressionism, the museum covers it all. 

Any trip to Chicago needs to include the green space of Millenium Park, the place to be in Chicago any time of year! The park is home to the infamous Cloud Gate (The Bean), Pritzker Pavilion, and Crown Fountains, and many tourists head straight for these three to capture iconic Chicago photographs. 

Additional Resources: 48 Hours in Chicago

Milwaukee is the largest city in Wisconsin and located on Lake Michigan. Milwaukee is full of life with plenty of things to do and see, including some weird and wacky ones. First, there’s the Milwaukee Art Museum which is one of the most striking buildings in the city located along the waterfront. Next, there is the Harley Davidson Museum to visit even if you are not biker it is very interesting to learn about the history of this motorcycle company.

best city trips usa

The Milwaukee River Walk is a great way to see some of the architecture of the area and a great way to explore more of the city on this two mile walk along the river.  Be sure to check out the bronze statue of The Fonz from Happy Days.

But enough about things to do – let’s talk food my friend! If you haven’t tried cheese curds or frozen custard, did you really even visit Milwaukee? P.S. – NO! The dairy state offers a lot of different types of cheese but the cheese curd is the most popular.  You can buy fresh cheese curds from the Wisconsin Cheese Shop on Highland Avenue which also ships cheese for you.

If you are attending an event like Summerfest or a Milwaukee Brewers Game you will find deep fried cheese curds which are battered and fried gooey cheese bites!

And for dessert, you must try Kopp’s frozen custard.  They have several locations around Milwaukee. Try the flavor of the day and see why frozen custard is far superior to ice cream.

Contributed by Nicole from Travelgal Nicole

So there ya have it- a whole bunch of week-long USA itineraries to choose from for your next trip in the states! Which are are on your bucket list?

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August 9, 2022 at 9:14 am

I love this list! I’m going to try to do a week-long itinerary starting in Boston this fall!

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This Is the Best U.S. City to Live in for 2024

A mid-size city in Illinois took the top prize in a recent survey by Niche.com.

best city trips usa

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

If you’re looking to move this year, you are not alone. Last year, a survey found that over a quarter of people either have specific plans to relocate or want to do so in the future. And according to data by the U.S. Census Bureau, 25.6 million Americans, or almost eight percent of the population, moved in 2023 , with many seeking better education and a more family-friendly environment. 

If these are also important factors for you, consider relocating to Naperville, Illinois. This city of about 150,000, west of Chicago, was just named the best place to live in 2024 by Niche.com (it was also on our Best Places to Live in Illinois list, as recommended by real estate experts). The study takes into account overall livability criteria like crime rates, housing trends, employment statistics, school system, and access to amenities in over 220 cities across the nation.

“With outstanding quantitative and qualitative scores across many of the categories we use to evaluate cities, Naperville secured this year’s top spot for best cities to live in America for the first time ever after years on the rise,” Luke Skurman, CEO at Nich, told Travel+Leisure. Skurman added the city ranked first in the public schools and family-friendly places categories and was third in the housing category.

Naperville dates back to the 1800s, and its long history is reflected in the variety of architectural styles that define its cityscape. It sits on the banks of the DuPage River, and its scenic riverfront is one of the main attractions drawing residents and visitors alike. With multiple sports complexes, miles of hiking trails, and a couple of forest preserves, the city offers plenty of year-round outdoor recreation. 

Because Naperville is just 35 miles west of Chicago, its residents also have access to the Windy City’s job market and economic opportunities, resulting in a median household income that is almost twice the nation’s average, according to Niche . However, unlike other cities with excellent public school systems and family amenities, housing prices have not reached stratospheric levels. Zillow data shows that the median home value in Naperville is $538,826. However, that number is ten percent higher than last year, so prices are on the rise. 

Second on Niche’s list is The Woodlands in Texas. This community north of Houston came on top in the housing category and was recently highlighted as one of the most affordable places to retire in the South . The median home value here is $303,00 2, which is below the national average. 

And the bronze medal goes to Cambridge, Massachusetts. This Boston suburb, which is home to several top-rated universities, including Harvard and MIT, ranked first in the Best Cities for Young Professionals category. However, with a median home price of $962,679, it received a low score in the housing category.

You can see the full ranking of Niche’s tenth annual report at niche.com .

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New report ranks best and most affordable places to live in America

Did your hometown make the list? A few US cities are hotspots on this year's ranking, with multiple neighborhoods in the top 10.

Covered bridge in Naperville, Illinois

  • Tod Caviness
  • March 27, 2024

Prepare to swell with local pride or seethe with envy, depending on where you live. For the 10th year running, Niche.com has released their annual list ranking the best cities and places to live, and you might be surprised at the results for 2024.

It’s clear from both lists that Niche doesn’t play favorites with cities that are well known. You won’t find famous hotspots like Miami, Chicago or New York City anywhere in the top 10, for instance. Niche is a site that’s primarily focused on helping students and families find a school that fits their needs, and a place to live near that school.

MORE: This is the salary you need to live comfortably in 25 US cities

For their rankings, they use their own proprietary data about schools and the housing market as well as statistics from the U.S. Census, Bureau of Labor Statistics and other federal sources. Diversity, affordability, walkability and other factors are added to the mix, along with community reviews on the site to find the best.

The rankings this year rate over 18,000 places and nearly 230 cities, and Texas makes a good showing when it comes to urban areas. The Lone Star State has two spots in the top five list of cities: The Woodlands ( No. 2) and Plano (No. 5).

The top city overall? Naperville, Illinois, up from the No. 4 slot in 2023. It gets an A+ rating from Niche in the categories of “Public Schools” and “Good for Families.” Anonymous reviewers on the site praise its riverwalk (shown below) as “something out of a fairytale” and love the fact that it’s a short 30-minute train ride away from Chicago. Unsurprisingly, Naperville also took No. 1 in a separate list of Best Cities to Raise a Family in America. Last year’s top city, Cambridge, Massachusetts, slips to a respectable No. 3.

MORE:  This city ranks first for retirement with baby boomers

2024 Best Cities To Live In America

Riverwalk in Naperville, Illinois

Here are Niche’s top 10 Best Cities to Live in America for 2024. Niche defines a city as “a principal city for an urbanized area with a population of 100,000 or more.”

  • Naperville, Illinois
  • The Woodlands, Texas
  • Cambridge, Massachusetts
  • Arlington, Virginia
  • Plano, Texas
  • Irvine, California
  • Columbia, Maryland
  • Overland Park, Kansas
  • Ann Arbor, Michigan
  • Bellevue, Washington

2024 Best Places To Live In America

Niche also ranked the best places to live, which include “non-rural town(s) with a population of 1,000 or more.” The top town for 2024 is Colonial Village, which also happens to be a neighborhood in Arlington, Virginia — No. 4 on this year’s list of top cities.

It moved up from its No. 2 spot last year, displacing Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania to No. 3. Niche rates Colonial Village an A+ for its public schools, nightlife and commute, among other factors. The Tampa, Florida area also made a great showing on this year’s rankings, with three neighborhoods in the top 10: Uptown (No. 4), Hyde Park/Spanishtown Creek (No. 6, shown below) and Harbour Island (No. 9).

Palace of Florence in Hyde Park Historic District of Tampa

Here are the top 10 Places to Live in America , according to Niche:

  • Colonial Village, Virginia (neighborhood in Arlington)
  • Carmel, Indiana
  • Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania (suburb of Philadelphia)
  • Uptown, Florida (neighborhood in Tampa)
  • Cinco Ranch, Texas (suburb of Houston)
  • Hyde Park/Spanishtown Creek, Florida (neighborhood in Tampa)
  • Evergreen Park, California (neighborhood in Palo Alto)
  • Radnor/Fort Myer Heights, Virginia (neighborhood in Arlington)
  • Harbour Island, Florida (neighborhood in Tampa)
  • College Terrace, California (neighborhood in Palo Alto)

Niche also broke down their rankings to find the locales that are the “Best for Families,” “Most Diverse,” “Best for Retirees” — the list goes on. You can find them all on the Best Places to Live page on Niche.com.

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4 Michigan cities ranked among 2024 best places to live

Ann arbor cracks the top 10 in america.

Ken Haddad , Digital Managing Editor

Four Michigan cities made the 2024 list of the best places to live in the U.S.

Niche released their annual rankings of the best cities, towns and communities across the country, ranked using various factors, like schools, crime rate, housing, cost of living, amenities, surveys and more, which you can read about here.

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The No. 1 ranked best city to live for 2024 was Naperville, Illinois, followed by The Woodlands, Texas, Cambridge, Massachusetts, and Arlington, Virginia.

Here’s where Michigan cities ranked on the 2024 list:

  • No. 9: Ann Arbor
  • No. 67: Grand Rapids
  • No. 117: Lansing
  • No. 168: Warren

Okemos was ranked No. 21 in rankings for best suburbs to raise a family in America.

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Port of Baltimore suspends ship traffic after bridge collapse: What it means for travel

Travel is being impacted by Tuesday’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse along Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland. 

Drivers were immediately directed to take alternate routes through the city, following the early morning incident. What’s less clear is what the bridge collapse may mean for upcoming cruises in and out of Baltimore.

“Vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice,” the Port of Baltimore posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Live Updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship hits it; construction crew missing

Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Md., whose district includes the bridge and the port, called the collapse an “unthinkable horror” and said he had spoken with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the White House. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“They are responding with all of the assets at their disposal,” he said in a statement. “Our prayers right now are for the missing individuals and victims of this tragedy. We thank God for the effective service of our first responders.”

Here’s what we know.

Which cruises go to Baltimore?

Several major cruise lines serve Baltimore. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade group, published itineraries in the 2024 calendar year include a dozen ships making 115 stops in Baltimore.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Key Bridge that occurred last night and extend our support and heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” CLIA spokesperson Anne Madison said in an emailed statement. “We join everyone in extending our thanks and appreciation to the first responders and emergency workers in Baltimore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other professionals who are working with one goal in mind—to save lives. We are closely following this situation.”

Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas has a roundtrip itinerary scheduled to depart Baltimore on April 12, according to the cruise line’s website. “We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and extend our heartfelt prayers to all those impacted,” a spokesperson for the line said in an email. “We are closely monitoring the situation, and our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas’ ongoing and upcoming sailings.”

Carnival’s website shows Carnival Pride and Carnival Legend also have sailings into or out of Baltimore set for April. 

Carnival Legend will temporarily move operations to Norfolk, Virginia.

The ship's current cruise, which left for a planned round-trip sailing from Baltimore on March 24, will end in Norfolk on Sunday. Passengers will then receive free bus rides to Baltimore. The vessel's next cruise will sail round-trip from Norfolk later that day.

“Our thoughts remain with the impacted families and first responders in Baltimore,” Carnival president Christine Duffy said in a statement. “We appreciate the pledge made by President Biden today to dedicate all available resources to reopen Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic as soon as possible. As those plans are finalized, we will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk.”

The cruise line has not yet shared plans for Carnival Pride. Carnival's parent company, Carnival Corp., said the temporary change in homeport is estimated to have an impact of up to $10 million on adjusted EBITDA and adjusted net income this year, according to a news release .

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: What to do next

American Cruise Lines has roundtrip sailings from Baltimore scheduled in May, according to its website.

“We will monitor the situation and make adjustments to future cruises if needed, but at the present time our schedules remain unaffected, and our thoughts remain with those affected by the immediate situation and rescue efforts underway,” an American Cruise Lines spokesperson told USA TODAY.

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t appear to have any Baltimore sailings until September on Norwegian Sky . The line will stay in contact with the port and share any changes with passengers and travel partners, according to a spokesperson.

"In the meantime, we wish the city of Baltimore strength during this very unfortunate event," they said in an email.

Alternate routes for the Baltimore bridge

Most drivers can take Interstate 95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or Interstate 895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) to avoid the collapsed bridge. However Maryland Transportation Authority notes there are some exceptions .

Vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13-feet and 6-inches high or 8-feet wide may not use the 1-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14-feet and 6-inches high or 11-feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. 

Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead.

Watch CBS News

How to travel around the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore: A look at the traffic impact and alternate routes

By Rohan Mattu

Updated on: March 28, 2024 / 12:07 PM EDT / CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE -- The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday  led to a major traffic impact for the region and cut off a major artery into and out of the port city. 

A bridge column was hit by a large container ship around 1:30 a.m., sending bridge workers and vehicles into the Patapsco River. A water search for six missing workers turned to a recovery effort Tuesday night.

Drivers are told to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.

Locator map showing the typical traffic routes of cargo vessels passing beneath the bridge and the trajectory Dali followed prior to the allision.

Alternate routes after Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

Maryland transit authorities quickly put detours in place for those traveling through Dundalk or the Curtis Bay/Hawkins Point side of the bridge. The estimated 31,000 who travel the bridge every day will need to find a new route for the foreseeable future. 

The outer loop I-695 closure shifted to exit 1/Quarantine Road (past the Curtis Creek Drawbridge) to allow for enhanced local traffic access. 

The inner loop of I-695 remains closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed. 

Alternate routes are I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes. 

Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.   

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Where is the Francis Scott Key Bridge? 

The Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River, a key waterway that along with the Port of Baltimore serves as a hub for East Coast shipping. 

The bridge is the outermost of three toll crossings of Baltimore's Harbor and the final link in Interstate 695, known in the region as the Baltimore Beltway, which links Baltimore and Washington, D.C. 

The bridge was built after the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel reached capacity and experienced heavy congestion almost daily, according to the MDTA. 

Tractor-trailer inspections

Tractor-trailers that now have clearance to use the tunnels will need to be checked for hazardous materials, which are not permitted in tunnels, and that could further hold up traffic. 

The MDTA says vehicles carrying bottled propane gas over 10 pounds per container (maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, significant amounts of radioactive materials, and other hazardous materials are prohibited from using the Fort McHenry Tunnel (I-95) or the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel (I-895).  

Any vehicles transporting hazardous materials should use the western section of I-695 around the tunnels, officials said. 

Rohan Mattu is a digital producer at CBS News Baltimore. Rohan graduated from Towson University in 2020 with a degree in journalism and previously wrote for WDVM-TV in Hagerstown. He maintains WJZ's website and social media, which includes breaking news in everything from politics to sports.

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