Did you know the U.S. welcomes nearly 67 million international tourists per year? Whether they’re seeking the bright lights of Las Vegas or the sunny shorelines of Florida’s Keys, there’s something for everyone in the Land of the Free.
Together, let’s take a tour around the nation, from the northeast corridor in Maine, down to Florida, over to Texas, and up to the sleepy streets of Seattle. Buckle up! We’re in for quite a ride.
Acadia National Park, Maine
We have to weave in some of the most beautiful National Parks as we tour the nation. They’re some of the land’s best attributes, and many deserve a gold star, such as Acadia National Park.
Not far from Bar Harbor, Maine – a gorgeous little spot in its own right – you’ll find nearly 50,000 acres filled with everything from dense forestry to showstopping sea cliffs. While you’re wandering along the sea cliffs, see if you can make your way to Bass Harbor Head Light Station – one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the nation, sitting pretty on the edge of a cliff.
Boston, Massachusetts
Cities like Boston and Philadelphia have such a rich history. Each of them is a wonderful way to explore Colonial America. In Boston, all you have to do is hop on the Freedom Trail to see an array of sights like Paul Revere’s house, King’s Chapel, and the USS Constitution.
Simply strolling through beautiful neighborhoods like Beacon Hill can also provide a proverbial blast from the past as you walk along those misty cobbled lanes. Acorn Street, in particular, is often named one of America’s prettiest streets with its red brick sidewalks and ivy-coated houses.
New York City, New York
There’s no other city in the world quite like New York, specifically Manhattan – although Brooklyn continues to impress. Still, if you’re unsure how to tackle the isle of Manhattan and its other boroughs, you can simply stick to Midtown Manhattan.
Stroll along Fifth Avenue, visit the New York Public Library, dip in and out of museums like the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), or step into Central Park. Lovely walks—both urban and green—countless Micehlin-starred restaurants and lovely wine bars abound.
In fact, when you’re ready, here’s a list of unforgettable experiences – in New York City and beyond!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a standout experience that only exists in America because this is where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Liberty Bell tolled for its new citizens.
Like Beacon Hill in Boston, you can take aim at Elfreth’s Alley in Philly. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited streets in America. These beautifully restored houses used to be the homes of America’s earliest craftsmen and artisans. Now, they’re mainly private residences, but two have been graciously turned into museums that offer a peek into the past.
Washington, D.C.
Of course, the nation’s capital is a must-see for a full tour of America. If you made it to Independence Hall in Philadelphia, then you might want to see the actual document in the National Archives.
Plenty of other world-famous museums abound in this historic city, like the Smithsonian. Then, of course, you have all the monuments like the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials and the Washington Monument. Plenty of plush hotels abound in D.C., and some of the finest restaurants – are fit for a dignitary.
Boonsboro, Maryland
This town is barely a blip on the map but welcomes visitors from all over the world, year after year, especially if they’re romance readers or Civil War buffs. One of the most prolific writers of all time, Nora Roberts, turned a beautifully restored historic building into a luxurious B&B.
The bedding is fresh; the breakfast is delicious; the library is stocked with books and Jameson Irish Whiskey. Across the street, you’ll find quirky shops and her husband’s bookstore. Then, when you’re ready to tour former Civil War battlefields, the haunting winds will sweep you away.
Savannah, Georgia
Is there anywhere else on earth that knows what it is to be a genuine Southern Belle? Savannah epitomizes this type of southern charm and is a must-see for anyone visiting the nation.
One of their streets, Jones Street, gives Acorn Street and Elfreth’s Alley a run for their money. With cobblestone lanes, antebellum architecture, and a canopy of oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, it’s surely a sight to see.
Then, you have River Street, where you can watch the barges float by while sipping on a craft cocktail from any number of their delicious eateries that line the cobblestone streets. Indeed, the charm of Savannah will stay with you forever.
Key West, Florida
People from all over the world have a certain curiosity about Florida’s beaches. So, how can we choose just one? And do we go to the Atlantic Coast or the Gulf Coast? They’re both so beautiful.
Still, it has to be said that the Florida Keys hold a certain amount of magic. If you set your sights on Key West, you’ll be dazzled by the pristine beaches, clear blue water, magnificent restaurants, and a few decidedly unique attractions like one of Ernest Hemingway’s former homes.
Austin, Texas
For a true glimpse into American glory, Texas, too, must make the list. The major cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston are likely to feel like “another” big city. But, Austin has its own unique charm.
Located in what’s known as Texas Hill Country, it’s a gorgeous place to drive around. It’s a lesser-known fact, but the area is also known for its all-inclusive resorts. It has to be said that Lake Austin Spa Resort is truly heavenly. You don’t even have to leave the resort for a fine dining experience. But, if you wanted to, you could enjoy a wonderful dinner, Tex-Mex style, down in the city one night.
For a more complete list, here’s our guide to Texas’ finest all-inclusive resorts, including Lake Austin Spa.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Now, it’s time to enter desert territory – and America’s Southwest has so much to offer. Santa Fe is a bit of an artist’s haven. This is the place to book into a luxury B&B, dip in and out of art galleries, and pick up a few handmade items like jewelry or pottery.
You may also like the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, if you’ve always been a fan of her artwork. Either way, you’ll leave here inspired by the landscape, the people, and the artistry that abounds on every corner.
Sedona, Arizona
If we’re doing a desert tour, then we simply must move over to the sensational Red Rocks of Arizona, particularly Red Rock State Park. Oak Creek is a particular fascination once you’re within the park. It creates such a juxtaposition between the red sandstone, green desert, and blue water.
Then, of course, the town of Sedona has plenty to offer, as well. The Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is another treasure trove for handmade, artisanal finds. With live music and plenty of dining options, this would be a lovely way to spend an evening as the sun goes down on the most beautiful corner of the country.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Since we’re already here, we might as well add Las Vegas to the list – as there’s no place else on earth like it. Of course, this is a gambler’s delight, but that’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Some of the country’s finest restaurants, luxe shops, and sumptuous hotels also bedazzle the streets.
If you have a favorite artist, like Carrie Underwood or Adele, you may be able to enjoy their Vegas residencies. Then, of course, you have the splendors of Cirque du Soleil, as well as countless comedy acts. It’s a bright city that’s worth a visit if you want to see the pinnacle of entertainment.
And, if you’d like to expand your horizons beyond the Strip, these 15 can’t-miss attractions will certainly fit the bill!
Bozeman, Montana
Like Florida, it’s difficult to choose just one city in a state with a name as beautiful as Big Sky Country. But Bozeman has made quite a name for itself, nestled into the Rocky Mountains. Its downtown delights won’t cease to amaze you, with plenty of fine dining options, art galleries, and local and family-owned shops.
The Museum of the Rockies is also worth a visit, with its extensive dinosaur displays and Native American and frontier history exhibits. Whether you go to a rodeo, stay at a ranch, buy a cowboy hat, or dance with a proper cowboy, you’ll be glad you got a glimpse of the Wild, Wild West.
Boulder, Colorado
If you liked Bozeman, you might want to dip south again and tour the delights of Boulder. Also nestled into the foothills of the Rockies, there are plenty of walking paths to get you out into the splendors of nature.
The city itself is also a delight, with its coffee shops, bookshops, eateries, and pubs. This is a great place to rent a bike, tour the foothills, and then cap your day off with a fresh burger and a beer before contemplating whether or not you want to continue on to Aspen or Vail for some ski time.
Seattle, Washington
Speaking of bookshops and coffee shops, let’s head to the misty streets of Seattle. Their coffee shop culture is on point, as is their restaurant scene, and a wide variety of hotels and Airbnbs to settle into.
Of course, you can climb the famous Space Needle to feast your eyes on the glory of this harbor city. You can also be dazzled by the Chihuly Garden & Glass Museum. Then, when you’re ready to lace up your hiking boots, Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier National Park are right in Seattle’s backyard.
Portland, Oregon
If you loved Seattle, then you’ll also love Portland. It’s a fertile city with the International Rose Test Garden and Japanese Garden. There are also plenty of forests to get lost in, such as Mt. Hood National Forest and Forest Park.
Downtown, you have Powell’s City of Books and the Portland Art Museum. In a land where coffee shops and wonderful restaurants abound, you’ll have a lovely stay here with the perfect blend of urban delights and forest finds.
San Francisco, California
People all over the world probably know a thing or two about the Golden Gate Bridge and those famous hilly streets. Like Portland, San Francisco also has a lovely Japanese Tea Garden in Golden Gate Park.
You can also walk around Ghirardelli Square for some shopping, live music, and harborside eats. Then, downtown San Fran is full of color and life, especially if you catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre, stroll around Chinatown, or indulge in a little retail therapy at Union Square.
San Diego, California
Now, it’s time for some of that California sunshine that only San Diego can deliver. The main beach here is Ocean Beach, a surfer’s paradise that lights up in bold hues or glistening orange and gold at sunset.
For something a little quieter, you could also walk around La Jolla to enjoy a meal and a walk along some sea caves. All you need is a nice little bungalow for a night or two, and the healing waves of the Pacific will do all the rest.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
We have to round out this list with one more notable National Park: Big Bend. The first thing to note is that the extreme temps that this southwest corner of Texas has to endure are no small matter. March might be your best bet, in terms of avoiding the unforgiving summertime sun.
But, once you’re in the park, you’ll see why it was so worth it. Everything from sea fossils to dinosaur bones to volcanic dikes dapple this desert landscape. If you join a tour or camp nearby, this is also a stargazer’s delight. Never again may you see the sky lit up in such a tapestry of light.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Let’s close the loop in our nationwide tour of the country in another city with a unique life of its own. New Orleans is the place to come for spicy jambalaya, unique jazz fests, and Creole architecture.
People here are colorful, lively, and more than happy to show you a good time. Tickets often sell out for their New Orleans Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour – as the city is mystified by these sorts of things.
If that’s not really your thing, then the next best walking tour would be a food tour down Bourbon Street. Indeed, this city will dazzle and delight you with its rich history, unrivaled cuisine, and bright, bold nightlife.
Tour the Land of the Free
America has it all, doesn’t it? From deserts to mountains to lakes, to sea after shining sea, there’s nothing you can’t find across this eclectic country.
Whether you’re seeking out an urban nightlife or a starry desert sky, you can have it all. And don’t overlook the chance to book into an all-inclusive resort along the way. Any one of our destination guides will help you get where you’re going.
Here’s hoping we see you in the misty streets of Seattle or somewhere along the empowering pavement that lines the Empire City.