Any traveler would be amazed by the United States vastness and diversity alone, yet the country boasts a list of expensive attractions to match its massive size.
In the US, you can strike into a backyard full of red rocks, rippling sand, and peaks rising from the Great Plains, or you can explore towns filled with iconic landmarks—think star-studded Los Angeles or museum-packed Washington, DC.
These are the top activities for an unforgettable holiday in the US, whether you prefer driving, exploring the trails, or getting lost in a concrete jungle.
We’ve compiled a list of the top must-see attractions that are well worth the effort, even though visiting tourist destinations frequently requires negotiating long lines and crowds.
1. Drift down the Mississippi
Although cruising the Mississippi (ideally aboard a paddlewheel steamboat) is a stereotypically Southern experience, don’t let its leisurely aspect fool you; even a brief journey will pack a ton of stuff into it.
Because cruise itineraries are usually packed, you will see various sites, from charming small towns to historic sites. Additionally, as you float past constantly shifting landscapes, there will be more to see from the deck.
2. Visit New England in the autumn
The autumn foliage of New England is always a sight to behold, whether it’s a few trees encircling the white steeple of a clapboard church or an expansive mountainside ablaze with color.
If you accompany the leaf peepers on their voyage to the northeastern United States, this fall fireworks show will astound you. Don’t forget to pause for apple cider doughnuts and maple creamies.
3. See the wildlife in Alaska
Alaska’s awe factor is unmatched! The sights you will experience when sailing in Alaska will last a lifetime, from seeing a brown bear up close to floating past azure glaciers.
Ensure you choose one of the smaller ships for a more varied experience; they can reach little ports and fjords that the larger ones cannot. In addition, choose a cruise that offers kayaking or whale-watching activities if you’re an adventure seeker.
If you’d prefer to watch the action from the ship, select an itinerary with more picturesque crossings for breathtaking views from the comfort of your deck.
4. Cruise into New York at dawn
A transatlantic sail into New York is an incredibly romantic way to see the city. The skyline stretches out in front of you as you cross the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge before dawn, the hazy light giving downtown Manhattan a pink tint.
You won’t soon forget the sight of the city’s skyscrapers illuminated by the shimmering morning light, so set your alarm and reserve your spot on the deck while it’s still dark. Once you disembark, attractions like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and bustling Times Square greet you.
5. Hit the jazz clubs in New Orleans
Jazz is one of the things at which New Orleans excels. Avoid Bourbon Street’s touristic bars and go to Frenchmen Street for a more genuine taste.
You’ll get a decent taste of all styles at the Blue Nile, while the Spotted Cat Music Club is a small but active place with no cover charge. Call Café du Monde, open twenty-four hours a day, for a heaping plate of warm, fluffy beignets after an all-nighter.
6. Mingle with the stars on the Walk of Fame
Over 2,600 brass stars compete for your attention along the Walk of Fame in Los Angeles. Some will give you an insight into figures from American history — Stanley Kramer is the first star — while others, such as Dean Martin and Bing Crosby, show off their popularity with three stars each.
7. Go hiking in Yosemite
Yosemite is a hiker’s paradise, with spectacular mountains, towering sequoias, and lakes dotted with boulders. However, some of the most excellent routes are only a mile or two long, so you don’t have to go for hours to get your money’s worth.
At Mist Trail, hike the short loop and be greeted with breathtaking waterfalls. For a spectacular view of the mountain-covered, still-blue waters, you may also stroll to the stunning May Lake.
8. Drop into the honky tonks in Nashville
With music pouring out of open doors and locals sharing cinnamon whiskey with visitors, Nashville’s Lower Broadway neon strip comes alive at night.
Whether you want to enjoy the music while drinking a beer or stomping your boots, stop by one of the many pubs for a broad sample of the country music rainbow. If you’re there during the day, don’t miss the neighboring Johnny Cash museum; it’s a stunning homage to the local icon.
9. Drive the Florida Keys
A traditional American road trip is unbeatable! It’s also a blast to drive the entire length of the Florida Keys, passing mangroves, adorable seafood shacks, and expansive stretches of turquoise oceans.
It is essential to pause for a piece of key lime pie and to sip a sophisticated cocktail at the water’s edge as the sun sets (don’t forget to look for dolphins!).
10. See the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon will always stop you, whether you drive up to one of the lookouts or arrive in its belly by helicopter. If the overlooks are packed, travel a little distance along one of the trails for a different (and more peaceful) perspective.
If you have unwavering nerves, stroll the Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass walkway 20 meters above the canyon’s brink (1,200 meters separating you from the bottom).
11. Go to Graceland
Every Elvis Presley fan was destined to make this trek. A tour of the King’s lavish, delectably bizarre mansion is an event; you’ll see his kitchen, his pool area covered in cloth, and the Jungle area.
Also, don’t miss his customized private aircraft, which have gold accents on practically every surface, from seat belts to washroom basins.
12. See weird and wonderful roadside attractions
You could arrange whole journeys around the roadside attractions of the United States, which are filled with deliciously cheesy Americana. Several sights are along Route 66, the grand dame of American road vacations.
Cadillac Ranch, a collection of vintage vehicles in a field outside of Amarillo, Texas, is a highlight. The cars are vividly spray-painted and placed in a Stonehenge-like fashion.
The Enchanted Highway in North Dakota is a 32-mile stretch of road bordered with metal sculptures, such as gigantic pheasants and jumping deer.
13. Fly in a hot-air balloon in Arizona
As you ascend into the sky with the sun and bask in the splendor of the Sonoran desert, there’s no better way to experience the enchantment of the desert at dawn than in a hot-air balloon.
Large tracts of land turn into vivid pink, orange, and crimson hues as the sky gets brighter. In this area, sunshine is practically a given.
14. Go wine tasting in Napa
On vacation, a glass of wine always tastes better! Drinking it at the source, surrounded by rolling vines and hills glowing in the California sun, enhances the flavor once more.
You’ll be in for a treat if you visit the Napa vineyards. Excellent wineries may be found along every roadside; most are happy to offer sampling.
15. Museum hop in Washington DC
Some of the world’s top museums are located in the capital of the United States. The good news is that most offer free admission, which is unusual in the US. One of the most essential experiences in the country is the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The National Spy Museum and the National Air and Space Museum are noteworthy institutions. While in Washington, DC, you may also take a free tour of the White House and see the Lincoln Memorial, but you’ll need to make reservations at least 21 days in advance.
Final Thoughts
Make a date to experience some of the most exciting and breathtaking activities for an unforgettable holiday in the United States!
