Bustling cities, quaint towns, spectacular national parks, lively beaches, and out-of-this-world islands. America is a great country with incredible people and sights–that’s a fact.
While there are many popular places to travel in the US, there are a bunch of beautiful places equally impressive, but that doesn’t get as much of the bulk of the attention.
Well, that’s about to change. I’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in the USA in most states. How does that sound?
It was pretty challenging to keep a list of 68 places because the country is dotted with must-visit spots, and I wanted to make sure you were inspired about different types of destinations.
Still, I asked locals and travelers with personal experience who have spent years traveling to all corners of the United States. They told me below (some) of the best places to travel in the US, and I genuinely hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did (to be honest, I LOVED it!).
Also, I hope this article will sparkle your wanderlust and that you’ll add many of these places to your USA bucket list.
1. Austin, Texas
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Austin, Texas, lacks professional sports teams but boasts sunny weather and celebrates Eeyore’s birthday annually.
As the capital and fourth-most populous city in Texas, Austin is renowned as the state’s most progressive, earning the nickname “Hippie Haven.”
Notable features include the only nude beach in Texas, which is a short day trip from Downtown, old-fashioned moonlight towers, and the largest urban bat colony in North America at Congress Avenue Bridge during spring and summer evenings.
While staying in Austin, be sure to hit up the Cathedral of Junk, grab a tour of all the highlights, sip some local beer, and don’t pass up an opportunity to indulge in a local culinary favorite: breakfast tacos–a must in any Austin itinerary!
If you’re more into nature, there are many hiking trails in Austin worth checking out, both throughout the city but also in nearby state parks. This can honestly be a super romantic things to do with your significant other, but it can also be a fantastic activity for those visiting Austin with kids.
Austin, with its unique charm, is a must on any USA bucket list, and the Museum of the Weird is a fascinating attraction to explore.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
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Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is one of the oldest U.S. cities, dating back to 1630.
Rich in history, it played a pivotal role in Puritan settlement and the Revolutionary War.
Today, Boston is a top urban vacation spot, attracting around 19 million domestic and three million international tourists annually.
History enthusiasts can explore Faneuil Hall and other landmarks like The Paul Revere House, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, Old South Meeting House, and Freedom Trail.
Beyond history, Boston is celebrated for its New England seafood and craft beers, making it an enjoyable destination for couples and visitors alike.
3. Seattle, Washington
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Seattle, Washington, the urban heart of the Pacific Northwest, is a must for coffee lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and seafood aficionados.
Nestled in an ecologically diverse region with stunning beaches and mountains, Seattle offers the unique experience of sunbathing in the morning and skiing or mountain biking in the afternoon.
Harbor cruise tours provide a serene alternative for nature appreciation. Key attractions include the Seattle Space Needle, Fremont Troll, Gum Wall, and the Museum of Flight, with Kerry Park offering a picture-perfect view of the skyline.
Just like Boston on the East Coast, Seattle boasts outstanding seafood, particularly delectable oysters.
Whether you have one or three days in Seattle, don’t miss the chance to savor a cup of coffee at the original Starbucks in Pike Place Market.
Just for fun: posting any pictures of the city on Instagram? Check out here my favorite quotes about Seattle so you can use them in your captions!
4. Houston, Texas
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Houston, Texas, the most populous city in the Southern United States and the country’s largest by area, is more than just a financial hub.
A weekend in Houston offers a taste of its vibrant and diverse atmosphere. The Houston Galleria, a four-story retail haven with 375 stores, is a must-visit, especially during Christmas.
For civic engineering enthusiasts, the seven-mile underground pedestrian tunnel links 95 blocks, 20 feet below the surface.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the city’s 337 parks with endless hiking trails, including the Houston Arboretum, and visit the Museum of Natural Science. There are also a bunch of pleasant state parks and beaches near Houston.
Popular tourist attractions include Old Market Square, Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, and the Space Center, ideal for those visiting with kids. Houston’s thriving food scene caters to every palate, from vegan gourmet to down-home BBQ.
5. New Orleans, Louisiana
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Known for its vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans offers year-round excitement, making it an ideal romantic getaway in the US.
Rooted in French and Spanish influences, the city boasts unique culinary, cultural, and musical traditions. The motto “Laissez les bon temps rouler” reflects its lively spirit.
Enjoying the French Quarter’s ambience with live jazz and buskers is a tradition, with numerous restaurants to explore.
Art and history enthusiasts can visit the National World War II Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden.
Don’t miss touring the oldest cathedral in the US, St. Louis Cathedral, built in 1718. Plan your weekend trip between December and May to avoid the sweltering hurricane season from June to November.
6. Atlanta, Georgia
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Atlanta, the seventh-most visited city in the United States, is a modern metropolis rooted in the South, nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
As Georgia’s most populated region, it features three distinct skylines: downtown, midtown, and the upscale district of Buckhead, often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Atlanta.
Downtown is a bustling commercial and retail hub, while midtown combines residential areas with vibrant clubs and restaurants.
Atlanta’s appeal as a top U.S. destination lies in attractions like the world’s largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, as well as Legoland, Six Flags Over Georgia, numerous museums, and parks.
The city’s thriving lounge and club scene caters to diverse tastes, from honky-tonk to hip-hop. Atlanta is also known for its festivals, offering a variety of options to coordinate with your weekend trip.
7. Orlando, Florida
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Orlando, a top global tourism destination, offers attractions like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Legoland, Madame Tussauds, Universal Orlando, Fun Spot America, and the Kennedy Space Center.
With over 100 lakes offering recreational activities, Orlando is a diverse destination featuring family-friendly restaurants, golf courses, and outlet shopping malls.
The city’s vibrant theatre and live music scene, along with tourist-friendly nightlife, add to its appeal.
Visitors can easily find deals in Orlando and explore nearby beaches to experience the Sunshine State’s coastal beauty.
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