On one trip, you might walk among giant redwood trees, breathe in the fresh sea air on shining beaches, and explore the underground art scenes of some of the world’s most exciting cities. Whether you love nature and want wide open spaces with snowy mountains, or you enjoy culture and can’t get enough of museums, galleries, and restaurants, the United States has something for you. In fact, the United States has a lot to offer you. Feeling overwhelmed? Here are five inspiring places to visit in the USA.
THE EVERGLADES, FLORIDA
Perfect for wildlife lovers. The Everglades are more important than words can fully explain. This huge wetland ecosystem is filled with many different plant and animal species, which is why it has been named an International Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a US national park. You can enjoy the wide grasslands and bayous by slowly kayaking through the coastal estuaries or by speeding across the many waterways on an airboat. Camping overnight in the mangroves gives you an even stronger connection to the area. And while you explore, watch carefully for wading birds, manatees, and, of course, alligators and crocodiles.
Planning tip: To enjoy your visit fully, make sure you’re ready for the weather. Sunscreen and insect repellent are must-haves.
WASHINGTON, DC
Perfect for anyone interested in American history
The National Mall in Washington, DC represents the key values of American political life. Along this 2-mile strip, which stretches from the US Capitol at one end to the Lincoln Memorial at the other, the cultural history of the United States is represented through iconic monuments and some of the nation’s most famous museums. The mall contains 10 Smithsonian institutions, which include the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Museum of American History, as well as other sites such as the National Gallery. The Washington Monument stands in the center of the Mall and rises as high as the ideals of the nation.,
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA
Perfect for exploring counterculture movements.
San Francisco mixes the excitement of a big city with the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of the West Coast. Enjoy stunning views of the bay from Golden Gate Park, explore the narrow streets of the country’s oldest and largest Chinatown, honor LGBTIQ+ history in the Castro, or experience modern art at SFMOMA and many local galleries. This place offers many different experiences.
PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
Perfect for anyone wanting to explore the West Coast. The Pacific Coast Highway links bright, sunny San Diego to the misty city of Seattle and offers unforgettable West Coast experiences along its 1600-mile route. Along the route, you can spend the night in quirky motels in small coastal towns, admire the cliffs of Big Sur, look at Oregon’s tide pools, and explore Olympic National Park in Washington. The small California town of San Simeon is especially worth visiting. The oceanfront Piedras Blancas Rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is both easy to reach and free to visit. The many seals lying in the sun and calling out along the beach and rocks create an impressive scene. Just up the road is the famous Hearst Castle, the former home of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, which stands as a monument to his extremely grand vision. It showcases an unusual mix of architectural styles, drawing inspiration from ancient Rome to the Renaissance, and is surrounded by orange groves and palm trees imported from the Canary Islands that frame the cathedral-like home.
Planning tip: Some parts of the Pacific Coast Highway run along sea cliffs that can experience rockslides. Always check the road conditions before you start your trip in case there are any unexpected closures.
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO
Perfect for those interested in Native history and culture.
You cannot avoid the centuries of history in Santa Fe, yet this unique city still manages to stay modern. A blend of Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican traditions, this capital city of New Mexico contains many historic sites, such as the 400-year-old Plaza and the Loretto Chapel, which is known for its famous staircase. The city is also well known for its creativity. The desert scenery around it inspired Georgia O’Keeffe for many years, and the upscale galleries on Canyon Road display works by many contemporary artists. And then there is Meow Wolf, the groundbreaking and hard-to-describe immersive art experience that you must see in person to truly understand.
Detour: Less than an hour from Santa Fe by car, the Puyé Cliff Dwellings, which are carved into the rock face and sit above Santa Clara Canyon on the Santa Clara Pueblo Reservation, were once home to 1500 Pueblo Indians. The site was abandoned in 1580, and today one-hour tours are led by the descendants of the people who originally lived there.