If you’re looking for an American vacation with some history, culture, and big city thrills, look no further than these destinations in the United States that are sure to be on any travel bucket list. Whether you like luxurious city living or hiking in wildernesses, there’s something here to please you and your taste buds. From the bustling metropolis of New York City to the gorgeous beaches of Southern California, here are 10 places in the United States you have to see before you die.
1) LOS ANGELES
L.A. may be a world-class city, but it’s also got world-class vistas right outside your door. From L.A., head for Mount Wilson Observatory for amazing 360 views of Southern California (reservations are required). There’s also no better way to experience Venice Beach than from on a bike – rent one and get there by way of Ocean Front Walk, which is packed with street performers, drum circles and more than enough people-watching opportunities as well as an endless supply of beach access points (you’ll feel like a kid again). To catch some rays but not too many crowds, hit up Malibu Creek State Park and hike one of three trails – don't miss Liberty Canyon at dusk!
2) NEW YORK CITY
New York City is more than just a collection of skyscrapers and crowded streets. If you’re going to visit NYC, try visiting a local farmers market (there are multiple different locations) or take a bike ride through Central Park – it’s truly a sight for sore eyes. NYC has so much history, culture and character, there really is no reason for anyone not to fall in love with it at first sight. With delicious pizza slices and iced coffee waiting around every corner, how could anyone resist? It’s one of those cities that everyone should experience at least once, if not multiple times throughout their life. And if that doesn’t convince you to book your flight ticket as soon as possible... Broadway has got you covered!
3) DENVER
Denver is famous for its beautiful Rocky Mountains, but it also has a number of great museums and galleries that display local art. If you’re a fan of modern art, there are several galleries located downtown. If history interests you more, then make sure to check out The Denver Museum of Nature & Science or The Denver Art Museum. After viewing some amazing exhibits, head over to REI Outfitters for an afternoon hike up nearby Bear Creek Mountain or Mount Evans. Or if nature isn’t your thing yet mountain views definitely are, take a scenic drive across Monument Canyon bridge on I-70 Eastbound and enjoy views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain as well as Colorado National Monument below you.
4) CHICAGO
Where else can you find deep dish pizza, a blues joint and public art on every block? It's all here, as well as an architectural legacy of Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan. Here's some helpful hints: 1. Start at Millennium Park with its Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which hosts free concerts during warm months; 2. Stop by The Art Institute of Chicago, home of priceless Impressionist paintings and Renaissance sculpture; 3. Grab a dog-friendly lunch at Hot Doug's or Giordano's and stroll through Millenium Park; 4. Check out views of Lake Michigan from One Magnificent Mile.
5) SAN DIEGO
If you’re on a California mission, spend a few days unwinding on San Diego’s beaches. It’s as close as you can get to relaxing on a tropical island without having to board a plane. Be sure not to miss Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: The park is home to some of Southern California's best and most rugged coastal scenery. You'll also want to check out La Jolla Cove: Known for its excellent snorkeling, it's considered one of America's top five dive sites. To explore San Diego from above, head up Mount Soledad: At 2,200 feet high, it provides spectacular views of downtown San Diego and makes for one-of-a-kind photos.
6) SAN FRANCISCO
San Francisco is a city that has it all: great food, top-notch architecture, world-class shopping, and some of America's most famous landmarks. It's not just one of my favorite cities in America; it's also one of my favorite destinations anywhere. From Fisherman’s Wharf to Golden Gate Park, San Francisco is a place you could easily lose yourself for a week exploring new corners of your favorite neighborhood or discovering something brand new. The city is truly beautiful, from its rugged coastline to its historic bridges and old buildings. More than any other U.S. destination I’ve visited, San Francisco feels like Europe; there’s just no other place like it on these shores.
7) HOUSTON
Houston, which was established in 1836 and is one of America’s most diverse cities. The city’s Sixth Ward, with its thriving restaurant scene on Almeda Road and live music venues, is a delightfully chaotic mix of hipster bars and restaurants that offer authentic African cuisine. More than 20 percent of Houstonians are foreign-born, making it one of America’s most ethnically diverse cities. Houston has long been known as an oil town, but aerospace has played a larger role in its development than many know: NASA maintains space operations at Johnson Space Center just outside Houston.
8) CLEVELAND, OHIO
Experience life in America's heartland at its best by visiting Cleveland, Ohio. Relax and enjoy what Cleveland has to offer like a little stay in one of it's hip hotels. Walk around downtown and take in all of the architecture with its breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Enjoy world class shopping at high end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Lord & Taylor while dining at celebrity restaurants like Morton's Steakhouse, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, and Eddie Merlot's Chop House. The city even has historical landmarks such as Playhouse Square Center that was built back in 1912, which is home to eight stages that host theater performances from all over! If entertainment is your thing then you can't miss Madame Tussauds Wax Museum or famous Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame!
9) MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
You don’t need to be a Twin Cities resident or an ice fisherman on Lake Woebegon (yes, it’s real—but it doesn’t actually exist) to recognize that there’s more than one Minnesota nice. It’s enough just to wander through a typical day and find yourself surrounded by some of most brilliant art and music, delicious food, amazing people, profound education and rich history. Among those things are: The Mall of America®, The Walker Art Center®, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts®, Basilica of St. Mary and Assumption Church, Guthrie Theater®, Orpheum Theater® and Landmark Center®.
10) PHOENIX, ARIZONA
Cave Creek Regional Park is a hidden gem for hiking and picnics that borders Cave Creek, a pleasant waterway. The park has over 16 miles of hiking trails, many of which are shaded by native foliage. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of ruins from prehistoric Hohokam Indians or hike up Bill Williams Mountain, where some say they’ve seen UFOs. It’s also an ideal place to spot wildlife like coyotes, lizards and birds. There are picnic tables available for guests looking for a meal outdoors.
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