From sea to shining sea, the United States is a really numerous nation – each with regards to tradition and pure magnificence.

I’ve traveled throughout the continental United States many instances over (you by no means actually notice how large Texas is till you drive by it. Rattling that state is large!). I believe, simply on my roadtrips alone, I’ve spent a collective two years exploring the nation. That’s a number of time and doesn’t even have in mind that go to to Portland or Nashville or weekend in Savannah. In brief, I’ve seen a number of this nation.

And there’s a lot value seeing.

Up to now, I’ve talked about my favorite restaurants and lessons learned, so it solely appears correct to offer you a listing of the most effective locations to go to within the USA.

All these locations are close to and expensive to my coronary heart and actually showcase simply how particular this nation is and what number of great locations there are right here. (It took me awhile to slender down this listing!)

In no specific order, right here’s my detailed listing of the most effective locations to go to within the USA:

(Be aware: This listing is predicated solely on the place I personally have been. There are much more breathtaking locations I haven’t explored but, which is why they will not be on this listing. It doesn’t imply they aren’t value seeing. It simply means I haven’t been there.)

 

1. Memphis

Gritty, industrial, and a bit run down, Memphis seems like its greatest days are behind it, however don’t let the tough exterior idiot you — town remains to be dwelling to some killer meals and a vibrant blues music scene. Moreover, there’s Graceland (Elvis’s dwelling) for followers of the King, an enormous waterfront for strolling, and the outstanding, detailed, and transferring Museum of Civil Rights (it’s big, so don’t rush it!). I loved town greater than I anticipated and was disenchanted after I needed to go away. To make use of a cliché, it’s a hidden gem!

WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS: Hostel Memphis – A hip hostel in a century-old constructing with a fully-equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi. The hostel can be a non-profit that donates 100% of its revenue to social justice causes across the metropolis.
 

2. Austin

I really like Austin (I really moved there in 2016 and stayed for a number of years earlier than returning to NYC). The nice and cozy climate, the vigorous honky-tonks and reside music, funky home bars on Rainey Road, superb mountaineering and biking trails, and tons of outside actions…Austin has all of it.

Due to every little thing from the rising meals truck inhabitants to the flagship Entire Meals retailer with the unimaginable salad bar (grilled pineapple!), I eat — and eat effectively — each time I’m right here. The Austin campus of the College of Texas supplies a youthful vigor to town, and its liberal perspective attracts a various and eclectic inhabitants. In brief, you possibly can’t skip Austin, as a result of when you do, I’ll discover you and drag you there.

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN: Firehouse Hostel – This centrally-located hostel is positioned in an outdated firehall from 1885. They’ve quick Wi-Fi, loads of chill frequent areas, and a tremendous on-site bar that serves top-notch craft cocktails.

For extra journey recommendations on Austin, try these posts:

 

3. New Orleans

New Orleans is a metropolis with soul. It’s seen some exhausting instances, but it surely lives on with a zest for all times unmatched by most locations. It has a wealthy and lengthy historical past (don’t miss taking a haunted walking tour whilst you’re right here) and is stuffed with delicious French-inspired Creole and Cajun meals, reside jazz music, avenue performers, and an appreciation for all of the temptations of life. Life is lived effectively right here within the Massive Straightforward. You don’t come right here to loosen up — you come right here to indulge! For my part, New Orleans one of the vital eclectic and vibrant cities in america.

WHERE TO STAY IN NOLA: HI New Orleans – An award-winning hostel with spacious dorms, cozy beds, privateness curtains, and quick Wi-Fi. Every thing a finances traveler wants!

For extra journey recommendations on touring New Orleans, try my suggested itinerary on how to spend your time there!
 

4. Asheville

Asheville is Portland within the North Carolina mountains: filled with tasty craft beer, meals, and hipsters. I favored the realm quite a bit, together with its proximity to some great and scenic mountain hikes such because the Carolina Mountain Path. Furthermore, the city has a number of parks for these wanting one thing nearer — and make sure you try the Asheville Botanical Gardens close to the college campus. The attractive Smoky Mountains are a brief drive away, and the large Biltmore property, the most important privately owned dwelling within the US and as soon as dwelling to George Vanderbilt, is on the outskirts of town. (When you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the home is like! And, when you haven’t, it is best to! The present is addicting!)

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE: Bon Paul & Sharky’s Hostel – A laid-back hostel with a spacious back and front porch for stress-free. There’s free parking, free Wi-Fi, and loads of close by eating places and cafes.
 

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

The drive up the Pacific Coast is taken into account one of the vital scenic on the earth. I’ve to agree. I didn’t journey the entire coast however the portion I drove (San Francisco to Portland) was unimaginable: sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of seashores, and big redwoods. It’s jaw-dropping all the best way. Be ready to make sluggish progress, as you’ll be pulling over often to cease, hike, and admire the view. I particularly favored Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon, and Mendocino, California.
 

6. Redwood Nationwide Park

Alongside the Pacific Coast is Redwood Nationwide Park, a big expanse of big redwood bushes stuffed with picnic areas, locations to camp, and miles upon miles of mountaineering trails. Trails vary from simple to strenuous, and there are numerous loops that head out to close by seashores. It’s completely stunning, awe-inspiring, and humbling in each method. It’s a must for anyone road-tripping around California.

WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK: View Crest Lodge – Positioned on the coast in Trinidad, this rustic budget-friendly lodge has primary facilities like free Wi-Fi and TV, and a few of their rooms even have full kitchens. It’s a clear, cozy no-frills place to crash for an evening.
 

7. Glacier Nationwide Park

Although I visited when many of the park was nonetheless closed (it was too early within the yr and there was nonetheless snow round), I used to be nonetheless surprised by the realm: beautiful snow-capped mountains rising excessive into the sky; a good looking, nonetheless lake through which to admire these mountains and huge glaciers; and mountaineering trails galore. It was probably the most mind-blowing place I noticed on my journey, and I can perceive why everybody raves about it. I can’t suggest a go to there sufficient.

WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Camping – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfy up for just a few nights underneath the celebrities. You gained’t be disenchanted.
 

8. Denver

Denver has a mixture of out of doors ruggedness and big-city dwelling. It has an enormous craft beer scene (make sure you take a beer tasting tour), glorious eating places (together with, Sushi Sasa, certainly one of my favourite sushi eating places on the earth), a big worldwide airport with a number of connections, and proximity to the mountains. It’s clear, and the locals are extremely pleasant. There are few cities within the US I need to reside in, however I really like Denver sufficient to say that it’s certainly one of them.

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel – This boutique hostel is rated among the best within the nation, providing a swank inside, free jacuzzi, out of doors firepit, cozy beds with blackout curtains, low cost in a single day parking, and extra.
 

9. Chicago

When the climate is good, I don’t assume there’s a greater metropolis in america. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago has world-class meals (attempt the deep dish, sushi, and scorching canines), the enjoyable and kitschy Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, a kick-ass aquarium, and iconic structure (make sure you take an structure tour).

And, as soon as the winter deep freeze is over, Chicagoans burst out of their houses to benefit from the summer time climate, so there’s a constructive, glad vibe emanating by town. Reap the benefits of it.

WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO: HI Chicago – A spacious, clear hostel with female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and a fantastic location. The beds are cozy and the frequent space is big so it’s simple to satisfy folks.

For extra journey recommendations on Chicago, try these posts:

 

10. New York Metropolis

Town that by no means sleeps. ‘Nuff stated. I imply, there’s a purpose I moved right here — after which moved again once more after dwelling in Texas. You possibly can’t go improper right here. New York sells itself and there’s nothing I can say right here. I do know you already need to go.

WHERE TO STAY IN NYC: HI NYC – This is without doubt one of the greatest and greatest hostels within the metropolis. It’s tremendous simple to satisfy folks right here, they’ve a chill out of doors patio, and the kitchen is big so you possibly can cook dinner extra meals and save your finances.

For journey recommendations on New York Metropolis, try these posts:

 

11. Natchez

I used to be most stunned by this Mississippi metropolis. I didn’t know something about it, however Natchez was advisable as a spot to see historic Nineteenth-century houses, constructed by remoted plantation house owners desirous to get away in the summertime and work together and socialize with one another. As cotton turned king, the homes turned ever bigger and extra elaborate.

Now, they’re historic monuments, and you’ll tour them whereas having fun with a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the overwhelmed path — and my favourite discovery from my final highway journey.

WHERE TO STAY IN NATCHEZ: The Beaumont House – If you wish to splash out, this recently-renovated B&B in a mansion consists of free breakfast and spacious historic rooms in addition to fashionable facilities like Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and flatscreen TVs.

For extra journey recommendations on Natchez, check out this post on my visit there.
 

12. Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil Struggle, allegedly as a result of Common Sherman thought it was too fairly to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss–lined bushes, giant and alluring parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a superb place to expertise the sluggish tempo of the Outdated South. I had visited this metropolis many, a few years in the past, however its magnificence, Southern consolation meals, and tranquility caught with me over time.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: Thunderbird Inn – This reasonably priced three-star motel is only a quick five-minute stroll from downtown. Boasting a retro vibe, there’s free espresso and juice each morning, in addition to free popcorn obtainable within the foyer.
 

13. The Grand Canyon

Phrases can’t precisely describe how incredible the Grand Canyon is. It’s breathtaking in so some ways — its sheer dimension, unbelievable depth, purple hues, and hanging vistas. Most individuals merely stand on the fringe of the canyon and look out throughout it, however its true dimension and sweetness are greatest appreciated with a hike right down to the underside. Make the time to hike right down to the Colorado River, hike the much less visited trails, spend the evening, and hike again up for sundown.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON: Camp – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfy up for just a few nights underneath the celebrities. You’ll want to order a spot early although as they disappear quick!

For extra journey recommendations on the Grand Canyon, learn this post on hiking the canyon.
 

14. Nashville

A bit bit nation, a bit of bit tech, Nashville is without doubt one of the fastest-growing cities within the US, and rightly so. It’s obtained a beautiful music scene (including the famous Grand Ole Opry), a rising cocktail bar scene, and a few down-home Southern eating places.

There’s not a number of “touristy stuff” to do right here, however what makes this metropolis certainly one of my favorites are the music, the meals, the wildly pleasant and glad folks, and the constructive power town appears to exude. While you’re right here, plan to spend just a few hours on the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into nice (although generally very one-sided) element in regards to the state’s historical past, but it surely’s extra thrilling than you would possibly assume.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Red Roof Inn – Whereas it’s not centrally positioned, this is without doubt one of the metropolis’s few reasonably priced two-star choices. A fast 13-minute drive from the Grand Ole Opry, this budget-friendly joint boasts an outside pool, free Wi-Fi, and free espresso.

For extra journey recommendations on Nashville, try these posts:

 

15. San Francisco

Meals of each nature, hipsters, excessive tech, and a various inhabitants make San Francisco certainly one of my favourite locations to go to. Moreover, it’s near some great nationwide parks, like Muir Woods, the place you possibly can escape town and go mountaineering amid big bushes (there are lots of half-day guided tours you can take). San Francisco has a lot to do this you want at the least 4 days to actually admire it.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO: Green Tortoise – As one of many oldest on the town, this hostel is an establishment in San Francisco. It gives free breakfast, free dinners a number of instances per week, and even a free sauna! It has an enormous frequent room so it’s simple to satisfy folks and has a really enjoyable, social environment.

For extra journey recommendations on San Francisco, learn these posts:

 

16. Miami

White sand seashores, Cuban meals, wild nightlife, beautiful folks, and superb heat climate — what’s to not love about Miami! I don’t assume I might ever reside right here, however for a weekend of enjoyable within the solar, Miami is ideal.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI: Generator Miami – This hostel has a pool, two eating places, a bar, and is simply minutes away from the seashore. It’s huge (there are 8 flooring), the beds are extra snug than a budget ones you’ll discover on the celebration hostels.

For extra journey recommendations on Miami, learn these posts:

 

17. San Diego

Endlessly heat and sunny, San Diego’s climate creates a completely glad inhabitants that’s pleasant and outgoing and that loves the outside — from mountaineering, days on the seashore, or operating. And they’re at all times glad to point out folks their metropolis.

The downtown Gaslamp space — in addition to the well-known Pacific Seaside — is filled with stylish seafood eating places, bustling bars, and a few severely life-changing taco stalls. I really like San Diego.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Adventure Hostel – With a give attention to sustainable journey (there’s a vegetable backyard and yard chickens), this chill hostel could be very pleasant and social. It’s clear, and the water strain within the showers is respectable, and the beds are cozy. (For extra hostel recommendations, you can read this post.
 

19. Lake Tahoe

Although the water degree of the lake, in addition to the wildlife round it, is unfortunately depleted because of the California drought, Lake Tahoe remains to be nonetheless spectacular and delightful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, it is a terrific place for mountaineering and boating in the summertime and snowboarding within the winter.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Camping – Pack (or lease) a tent and comfy up for just a few nights underneath the celebrities. You gained’t be disenchanted.
 

20. Wherever in Montana

Loads has been written about how gorgeous Montana is, but it surely’s all improper. It’s even higher than phrases can describe. It’s probably the most loopy stunning state I’ve ever been to, stuffed with wondrous mountains and hills so far as the attention can see. The persons are tremendous cool, welcoming, and outdoorsy, too. If I needed to choose a favourite state, it will be Montana. I simply adore it.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel – Positioned in downtown Bozeman, this resort is quiet, clear, and is dwelling to pleasant employees. They set up all types of occasions too, like pub crawls and film nights, so it’s simple to hang around and meet folks.
 

21. Washington D.C.

The capital of america is a vibrant, worldwide metropolis, and that’s what I really like about it. It’s second solely to NYC in range of individuals and meals (which is to be anticipated with so many individuals from worldwide help organizations and embassies). You hear one million accents on this city! Throw within the free Smithsonian museums, a number of parks, a riverfront for strolling or operating, and a few historic authorities buildings and monuments, and D.C. turns into one phenomenal place to go to, loosen up, eat, and drink! Make sure to take a tour of Capitol Hill whilst you’re right here!

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON: Highroad Hostel – Providing pod-style bunks, this cool hostel is positioned in an outdated Victorian mansion. The beds have thick mattresses, there’s a fully-equipped kitchen, there’s free espresso and tea every day, and so they even host a free glad hour every week!

For extra journey recommendations on Washington D.C., listed below are another articles I’ve written:

 

22. Cape Cod

I spent a number of summers on the Cape because it’s the place New Englanders escape for the summer time. You’ll discover loads of small seashore cities alongside the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being probably the most well-known however I additionally love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). When you’re on the lookout for seafood, seashores, boardwalks, and that excellent household trip, go to the Cape!

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD: Cape Sands Inn – Only a quick stroll from the seashore in West Yarmouth, this three-star property has all the usual facilities (TV, free Wi-Fi), in addition to free parking and a soothing sauna and scorching tub.
 

23. Boston

I could also be biased as a result of I grew up right here, however I really like Boston and cherish my visits dwelling. Boston rocks (Go Crimson Sox!). It’s historic (based in 1630), small-ish, simple to get round, and stuffed with superior and dependable folks. It’s dwelling to a ton of actions, just like the Freedom Path and Faneuil Corridor, the JFK Museum, and the Boston Commons and Public Backyard, in addition to among the greatest Italian and seafood eating places within the nation. Make sure to eat at Zaftigs for the most effective brunch within the metropolis! It’s depraved!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON: HI Boston – This spacious and clear hostel is only a quick stroll from just about every little thing within the metropolis. They’ve female-only dorms, free Wi-Fi, and a number of other chill frequent areas the place you possibly can meet different vacationers.

For extra journey recommendations on Boston, try these posts:

 

24. Las Vegas

Vegas, child, Vegas! Lots of people are turned off by the bright lights and gambling, however Vegas is much more than the casinos, costly golf equipment, and inns on the well-known Strip. There’s unimaginable mountaineering close by at Crimson Rocks Nationwide Park, a rising artwork scene, a booming tech scene, and plenty of live shows and reveals.

Get off the Strip, discover the actual Vegas (as a result of technically the Strip is positioned in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas), and see why folks determine to reside right here.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin City Hostel – Only a quick stroll from the (in)well-known Fremont Road, it is a social hostel that hosts all types of occasions (similar to bar crawls, pasta & wine nights, BBQs, on line casino nights, and extra). It’s a fantastic place to attach with different vacationers.

For extra journey recommendations on Las Vegas, these articles will help:

 

25. Portland

Portland, Oregon is unimaginable. I might transfer there if it had a much bigger airport with higher connections. Right here you’ll discover a powerful meals truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s a faith to residents, stress-free parks (together with a peaceable Japanese backyard), a vibrant artwork scene, and mountaineering within the close by mountains. There’s even an underground donut scene right here.

WHERE TO STAY IN PORTLAND: HI Portland – Northwest – Rated among the best hostels on the earth, this centrally-located HI hostel gives free breakfast, in-house made craft beer, an outside courtyard with a firepit, common reside music, and way more.

For extra journey recommendations on Portland, learn this post on the city.
 

26. Seattle

House to a bit of enterprise referred to as Starbucks, it additionally boasts an thrilling downtown, contemporary fish, genuine Asian meals, artwork museums, and funky nightlife. In historic Pioneer Sq., you possibly can go on an underground tour of town’s ruins (a hella cool expertise). Furthermore, you’re proper on the water and, climate allowing, can head out onto Elliott Bay to discover some little islands. Seattle is only a cool metropolis. There’s at all times one thing to do there, it’s techy, and everyone seems to be relaxed. Plus, there’s craft beer and low — what’s to not love about that!

WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE: Green Tortoise – Positioned proper throughout from the enduring Pike Place Market, this social hostel organizes all types of actions so it’s simple to satisfy folks. Additionally they provide free breakfast and each day occasions. It’s certainly one of my favourite hostels within the nation.

For extra journey recommendations on Seattle, learn this detailed planning guide!
 

27. Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this city was well-known throughout the Outdated West days, noteworthy sufficient to be the main target of an HBO sequence. Form of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a really cool place the place you possibly can expertise a style of the outdated frontier days. It’s additionally conveniently positioned close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore.

WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: Gold Country Inn – This kitschy resort is without doubt one of the most cost-effective locations on the town. Positioned proper downtown, they’ve a mini playing corridor on-site, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. It’s nothing fancy but it surely gained’t break the financial institution both.
 

28. Kansas Metropolis

I actually beloved this metropolis, which options among the world’s greatest BBQ and a vigorous downtown. There’s additionally an in depth and enlightening jazz museum right here, in addition to the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that was the precise title; I’m not being racist). I want I might have spent extra time, however that’s simply extra purpose to return again.

WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – With a health heart, pool, and an honest breakfast unfold, this three-star resort in downtown KC is without doubt one of the extra reasonably priced locations to crash within the metropolis.
 

29. Louisville

Louisville sits on the Ohio River and is the most important metropolis in Kentucky. I used to be stunned at how a lot I favored it and the way a lot there was to do right here. There’s a longtime theatre scene, a handful of museums and galleries, tons of scrumptious locations to eat (it’s a strong foodie metropolis), and all of the bourbon you possibly can drink.

Louseiville has a laid-back, artsy vibe to it. It feels way more like an Austin or a Portland than your conventional southern/midwest metropolis. Up to now, it was thought-about a fly-over metropolis and was skipped by most individuals. It’s undoubtedly not now.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn – Whereas it could be 20 minutes from downtown, this budget-friendly inn is reasonably priced, consists of free breakfast and free parking, and has free Wi-Fi. It’s a no-frills alternative however clear and comfortable.
 

30. Charleston

Charleston is one other vigorous metropolis filled with scrumptious meals, enjoyable bars, a number of historical past, and all of the southern allure you’d ever want. It’s stunning, the persons are good, and there’s a excessive, excessive focus of world-class eating places for such a small metropolis. (When you love seafood, you’re going to adore it right here. This is without doubt one of the greatest cities within the nation for seafood.)

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON: Charlestons NotSo Hostel – Positioned in a historic neighborhood, this laid-back hostel consists of free espresso/tea and oatmeal and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are small however the beds are completely cozy.
 

31. Franklin

Positioned simply outdoors of Nashville, Franklin is bursting with small-town allure. Town is filled with historical past (there was a serious Civil Struggle battle right here), a historic most important avenue, and a few actually scrumptious bars and eating places. I didn’t count on a lot and town actually stunned me. It’s the proper two-night vacation spot.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Hotel – This upscale property contains a restaurant on-site, health heart, bar, and terrace. When you don’t need to splash out, test Booking.com for different choices.

***

The United States is stuffed with too many “must-sees” locations to go to to listing in a single weblog submit. In spite of everything, the nation is dwelling to over 329 million folks and covers 3.8 million sq. miles.

Simply make sure you flip off the highways, head to the small cities, and uncover some favorites of your personal. The very best of the USA is at all times away from the key highways within the little no-name cities with little diners, quirky retailers, and pleasant folks!

For extra journey recommendations on touring the USA, learn these different weblog posts: