Throughout this article, you’re going to read about 101 best places to visit in the United States. This article is by no means exhaustive! I’ve broken up the post by region of the country, and each section has descriptions and recommendations on the best places to stay and things to do in the area.
1. New York City, NY
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If you’re wanting amazing food, incredible diversity, and countless cultural experiences, then visit New York City. I lived in New York City for a year, and I fell in love with everything about it. Even if you just have time to visit New York on a weekend, or a quick layover, it’s definitely one of the best places to see in the United States and is worth the trip.
Where to Stay in New York City
- Upper West Side: The Upper West Side is a quiet and peaceful part of the city overlooking Central Park, and if you stay here, stay at The Wallace Hotel.
- Chelsea: Chelsea is on the lower west side of Manhattan and is a great place for shopping and sightseeing opportunities. The High Line Hotel is a great place to stay.
- Williamsburg, Brooklyn: Williamsburg is a quirky, artist-centered part of Brooklyn, and the Williamsburg Hotel is my favorite place to stay in New York.
Things To Do in New York City
- Central Park: Central Park is an 840-acre park filled with miles of walking trails, ponds, and architecture. It was my daily tradition to end the day with a walking tour through Central Park, taking in the scenery and landmarks along the way.
- Time Square: Times Square is located in Midtown Manhattan, and it’s always a busy place with street performers, restaurants, and great shopping. If you have a day to spare in the city, I highly recommend taking a day tour of Times Square to experience the vibrant energy of the area.
- Statue of Liberty: Looking east out of Battery Park, people are gifted with the Statue of Liberty. I enjoyed the daily tours that were given to the statue where people could walk around and see it up close.
2. Boston, MA
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Boston is an underrated and under-appreciated city in New England. This port city was my favorite place to go on a weekend to escape New York due to its fascinating history, fresh seafood, and diverse culture. There are many things to do in Boston to warrant a trip.
Where to Stay in Boston
- Back Bay: The Fairmont Copley Plaza is a great place to stay in Back Bay which is my favorite place to do my shopping and dining in the city.
- Beacon Hill: The Beacon Hill Hotel and Bistro is in the midst of delicious restaurants as well as the picturesque Victorian-style Beacon Hill neighborhood.
- Cambridge: The Charles Hotel is near the Harvard University Campus and Harvard Square which has cafes, bookstores, and historical bars.
Things To Do in Boston
- Freedom Trail: The Freedom Trail is one of the best historical walking tours I’ve taken; it’s 2.5 miles long and connects 16 nationally significant historic sites.
- Fenway Park: The long-time home of the Boston Red Sox is a must-visit when you go to Boston; my first visit gave me a glimpse of true Boston culture.
- USS Constitution Museum: This museum is located in the Charlestown Navy Yard, and the USS Constitution is the oldest warship still afloat; I love history, so this was a bucket-list item for me.
3. Niagara Falls, NY
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Seeing Niagara Falls for the first time took my breath away. The sheer amount of water flowing over the falls combined with the entertaining interactive experience makes a trip up to the border well worth it.
Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
- Downtown Niagara Falls: The Country Inn & Suites is within walking distance from the falls and is in the midst of historic downtown Niagara Falls.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake: The Prince of Wales Hotel is a historic Victorian-style luxury hotel that’s just 2 blocks from Lake Ontario.
- Lewiston: Niagara Crossing Hotel & Spa is a brick-style hotel that’s only a few minutes from the city center of historic Lewiston.
Things To Do in Niagara Falls
- Maid of the Mist Boat Tour: If you’ve ever seen “The Office”, you’ll enjoy recreating Jim and Pam’s wedding on the Maid of the Mist Boat Tour that goes below the falls.
- Cave of the Winds: This is a natural cave behind Bridal Veil Falls and it’s 130 feet high, 100 feet wide, and 30 feet deep. For an unforgettable experience, I recommend taking the Cave of the Winds tour to explore the cave up close and feel the rush of the falls on your skin.
- Niagara Gorge Trail: The Niagara Gorge Trail is 6.2 miles one way and has many beautiful gorge vistas.
4. Philadelphia, PA
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Philadelphia showcases the hardworking culture of the United States. I went with the intention of seeing a Philadelphia Eagles game and left with a newfound appreciation for its food and wonderful people. Visit Philadelphia on a weekend, or stay longer to fully appreciate the city.
Where to Stay in Philadelphia
- Center City: The Rittenhouse Hotel sits at the heart of Philadelphia and is close to historical sites like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
- Old City: The Penn’s View Hotel gives visitors access to Colonial-era sites and 18th-century row houses.
- University City: The Inn at Penn sits right in the midst of University City which is home to the University of Pennsylvania and many others.
Things To Do in Philadelphia
- Independence National Historical Park: The Independence National Historical Park is home to the Liberty Bell and other attractions. This is one of the most popular things to do in Philly.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art: This museum, with its interactive displays, is one of my favorite art museums I’ve ever visited. I highly recommend taking a tour to fully experience the exhibits and engage with the art in a memorable way.
- Reading Terminal Market: I went with low expectations, but the amount of diverse foods and specialty items is outstanding.
5. Acadia National Park, ME
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Acadia National Park is a 50,000-acre national park filled with rocky beaches, and beautiful forests as well as Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. My visit to Acadia left me feeling extremely relaxed and recharged thanks to the slow pace and stunning vistas.
Where to Stay in Acadia National Park
- Bar Harbor: The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is only 1 mile from the park entrance and right near great local restaurants.
- Southwest Harbor: Kenway Ranch isn’t far from the Acadia entrance and it’s a nice place to relax after a long day of adventuring.
- Northeast Harbor: The Kimball Terrace Inn gave me a wonderful experience and it’s only 1 mile from Acadia.
Things To Do in Acadia National Park
- Hiking: The Cadillac Mountain Summit Loop offers visitors a spectacular tour of the park’s beauty, providing stunning views of both the park and the ocean from its summit.
- Scenic Drives: Park Loop Road is a 27-mile road and is the best scenic drive in the park, offering visitors a breathtaking tour of Acadia National Park’s stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
- Wildlife Watching: Moose and bear sightings, as well as wildlife watching tours, aren’t overly uncommon in Acadia.
6. Cape Cod, MA
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Cape Cod is one of the best places to go in the USA in the summer. This pretty destination off the coast of Massachusetts offers delicious food, historical lighthouses, and quaint villages that line the peninsula.
Where to Stay in Cape Cod
- Hyannis: The Hyannis Travel Inn is less than half a mile away from the Hyannis Harbor, and it offers pools, hot tubs, and a lot more.
- Provincetown: AWOL Hotel Provincetown is less than 1000 feet from the beach and it’s less than 1 mile from Herring Cove Beach.
- Chatham: The Chatham Wayside Inn gives off the classic Cape Cod feel, and it’s less than 1,500 feet from the beach.
Things To Do in Cape Cod
- Cape Cod National Seashore: The national seashore has over 40 miles of pristine beaches, ponds, and other upland features.
- Whale Watching: Be sure to book a whale-watching tour any time from June to September.
- Biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail: This 25-mile trail is perfect for a morning run or a long bike ride.
7. Bar Harbour, ME
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Sitting right on Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor is the perfect East Coast getaway. My journey into this coastal town brought me to the peaceful mountains as well as the Cranberry Islands.
Where to Stay in Bar Harbor
- Downtown Bar Harbor: Central House Inn is the ideal place to stay if you’re hoping to walk around the city.
- Salisbury Cove: Bar Harbor Cottages & Suites are a bit up the coast, but give you great views of the bay.
- North Bar Harbor: Eden brook Motel is the perfect affordable option for any visitor looking to explore the area.
Things To Do in Bar Harbor
- Whale Watching: Go from April to October to enjoy the whale migration.
- Acadia National Park: This is one of the best and most accessible national parks in the country, with popular activities including Acadia National Park tours.
- Visit The Village: The Village is a section of downtown Bar Harbor filled with quaint shops, and tasty restaurants, and it’s recommended that you book a culinary walking tour.
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