The Ultimate USA Bucket List

Once, while making a U.S.A bucket list, a friend from another country told me she loved the United States because each state is like its own little country. I had never thought about states that way, but the more I traveled the more I agreed! States have identities all their own; their food, culture, sports and even language can be notably different than their neighbors.

With the travel restrictions Americans are facing today, there is no better time than now to get out and explore our own home country. The amount of incredible things to see and do is truly endless. This list has a few must-see spots in every state to add to your U.S.A bucket list, although I’m sure we could all add many more!

Alabama

Gulf State Park

Over 6,500 acres of protected lands make up Gulf State Park in Alabama. The park boasts pristine white sand beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, freshwater lakes, and scenic nature trails perfect for biking or hiking. Visitors can stay right on the beach at The Lodge, a contemporary hotel or sleep under the stars at the park’s campsite.

More to See in Alabama

• Explore Cathedral Caverns; home to “Goliath”, one of the world’s largest stalagmites measuring 45 feet tall and 243 feet in circumference.
• Eat and drink at the Rattlesnake Saloon, a Western style saloon nestled inside a natural rock formation in the Appalachian foothills. To reach the saloon, diners must take a designated taxi, hike, or even better, ride in on horseback.

Alaska

Inside Passage

One of the best ways to experience the spectacular Alaskan scenery is a cruise or ferry trip along the Inside Passage. Glaciers carved this expansive network of waterways during the last Ice Age, and now the route runs alongside sparkling glaciers, fjords, mountains and forests.

More to See in Alaska

• Soak in Chena Hot Springs, a natural geothermal spring that soothes sore muscles with its high mineral content.
• In the summer, watch native brown bears fish for salmon at Brooks Falls.
• Experience the beauty of Denali National park with a hike or attend a ranger program at the Denali Visitor Center.

ARIZONA

Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular attractions in America, and it’s easy to see why. The striped redrock canyon stretches 277 miles from end to end and descends over one mile to the Colorado River below. It’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the only one located in the United States. The Grand Canyon should hold an essential place on anyone’s U.S. bucket list.

More to See in Arizona

• Hike to Antelope Canyon to wander through the twisted sandstone structures, illuminated by streaks of sunlight shining in from above.
• See one of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest, Monument Valley. Stone spires and sandstone buttes dominate the desert landscape.

Arkansas

Garven Woodland Gardens

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Garven Woodland Gardens is a 210-acre botanical garden at the University of Arkansas. The garden is filled with native flowers and plants, a 4-acre Japanese Garden, picturesque stone bridges and a treehouse that climbs 4 stories high. The real gem of the garden is the Anthony Chapel, with floor to ceiling windows that almost seem to bring the forest inside.

More to See in Arkansas

• Dig for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park. It’s the only diamond mine in the world where you can keep what you find.
• Stroll down Dickson Street in downtown Fayetteville and pop into the dozens of charming shops, restaurants and galleries. Don’t let this postcard perfect town fool you, Dickson Street is the hub of culture and entertainment in north-west Arkansas.

CALIFORNIA

santa Monica Pier

Yes, it may be touristy but spending a day in Santa Monica is a quintessential California Experience. Soak up the sun on the beach in the morning and then explore the pier and Third Street Promenade. After dinner, catch the sunset at Palisades Park.

More to See in California

• Ride a Cable Car up and down Nob Hill, explore Fisherman’s Wharf, and marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Fransisco.
• Spend an afternoon wine tasting in Napa Valley or Sonoma.
• Walk along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles and tour Universal Studios.
• Visit Sequoia National Park to see some of the tallest trees in the world, including General Sherman, the world’s largest tree.

COlorado

Breckenridge

Skiing the snowy slopes in Breckenridge followed by sipping a warm mug of hot cocoa at the lodge is a wonderful way to spend a winter’s day. What sets Breckenridge apart from the other ski towns in Colorado is its historic Main Street, lined with more than 250 buildings on the National Historic Register. Wandering along the street and stepping into the shops and restaurants is like walking into a postcard.

More to See in Colorado

• Ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The views you’ll see along the way were the inspiration for the song, “America the Beautiful”.
• Step into nature. Colorado is home to Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Rocky Mountain National Park, Garden of the Gods, Mesa Verde National Park and many more stunning places.

Connecticut

Mystic

The seaside town of Mystic, Connecticut is a historic area dedicated to preserving its maritime past. Explore the Mystic Seaport, a recreated 19th-century village complete with tall ships in the harbor. Next, pay a visit to the adorable beluga whales at the aquarium. Afterwards, walk through the village and admire the colonial architecture.

More to See in Connecticut

• Gawk at old books at Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Yale University, home to a Gutenberg Bible from approximately 1454. Other special books on display include the mysterious Voynich Manuscript, and a copy of John James Audubon’s Birds of America.
• Learn about beloved American author Mark Twain at The Mark Twain House and Museum, rated among the best historic houses in the world.

DELAWARE

Rehoboth Beach

The beach may not be something that comes to mind when you think of Delaware, but the one square mile community of Rehoboth Beach is ranked among Santa Monica and Miami as having one of the best boardwalks in the country. Spend the morning on the sandy beaches, the afternoon strolling the boardwalk, and an evening eating and drinking at the original Dog Head Brewery.

More to See in Delaware

• Tour Nemours Mansion & Gardens, built by American Industrialist Alfred du Pont. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon exploring the 300 acres of French architecture, lush gardens, and artifacts.
• Visit the Winterthur Museum, home to one of the largest collections of Americana in the country.

Florida

Key West

Driving from mainland Florida to the southernmost point of the United States in Key West is easily one of the most beautiful road trips in the country. Once there, head to Duval Street to find the bustling shops, bars and cafes. Spend the rest of the trip on the beach, visiting historic sites and enjoying water sports.

More to See in Florida

• Slow down for an afternoon at Everglades National Park, the second largest National Park in the United States. Take an airboat tour for the ultimate Everglades experience.
• Soak up the sun at Miami beach, then get a little rowdy at the bars and clubs at night.
• Be a kid again for the day at Disney World.
• Go back in time in St. Augustine, the Nation’s Oldest City.

Georgia

Savannah Historic District

Walking along the cobblestone streets of Savannah’s Historic District it’s hard to know what to look at first; the stunning homes or the old oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Take your time to explore all 20 city squares filled with stately mansions, immaculate gardens, churches, and monuments. Iconic Forsyth Park with its centerpiece fountain sits at the southern end of the district.

More to See in Georgia

• Drive through a tunnel of towering live oaks to tour the Wormsloe State Historic Site.
• See over 100,000 aquatic animals at Georgia Aquarium, the world’s largest aquarium.
• Sample Coke products from around the world at the Coca-Cola Museum in Atlanta.

Hawaii

Road to Hana

Driving the twisty Road to Hana, Maui, past the lush forests, waterfalls, and sparkling ocean views is a dream-come-true Hawaiian experience. The 65 mile drive has plenty of places to stop and admire the breathtaking views. This is one of the times the journey is as memorable, or even more so, than the destination.

More to See in Hawaii

• Trek through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to experience one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea. 
• Learn about the culture and traditions of the Polynesian people at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Catch a luau, have lunch and shop at the large marketplace.
• Hike to the summit of Diamond Head State Monument in Oahu for a stunning view of downtown Waikiki.

Idaho

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve was actually created nearly 15 million years ago by rivers of molten lava oozing from fissures in the Earth. The lava flows created a spectacularly unique landscape that is simultaneously desolate and beautiful. The cinder cones, cooled lava fields and craters look like something from another world.

• Go skiing or snowshoeing in the picturesque town of Sun Valley.
• Bike the 25-mile Greenbelt Trail in Boise to see both the city’s expansive park system and trendy downtown.
• Eat a baked potato with all the toppings at the Idaho Potato Museum.

ILLINOIS

Chicago Museums

Step off the touristy shopping street dubbed the Magnificent Mile and take advantage of one of Chicago’s many world class museums. The Field Museum Of Natural History, Art Institute of Chicago, National Museum of Mexican Art, and Museum of Contemporary Art are just a few of the must do’s. After hitting these bigger museums, explore one of the smaller specialty museums like the Chicago Sports Museum, the Halim Time and Glass Museum or the American Writers Museum.

More to see in Chicago

• Ride to the top of Willis Tower, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere to see the Chicago skyline from above.
• Visit Starved Rock State Park, a 2,630-acre hidden gem with beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls.
• Catch a Chicago Cubs baseball game at Wrigley Field.

Indiana

Indianapolis 500

To see the largest single day sporting event in the world, spend the day at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the Indianapolis 500. The 500 mile (200 lap) race is a serious Indiana tradition. Spectators will get a major adrenaline rush watching the drivers speed by at 220 mph. Before the race, join the 250,000 people tailgating outside the stadium before the event.

• Visit one of the nearly 1,000 Antique Dealers along Antique Alley, a 60 mile stretch of highway along old US-40 east.
• Spend a day on the sandy dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park. Planning a road trip through America’s heartland is a perfect way to visit spots like the Indiana Dunes.

Iowa

Bridges of Madison County

Of the 19 original bridges that inspired a beloved America novel and movie, The Bridges of Madison Country, 6 can still be seen today. One of the best times to visit is October, when the Covered Bridge Festival celebrates the bridges with tours, music, parades and craft shows. The fall foliage is also a stunning backdrop.

• Pose for a picture outside the American Gothic House in Eldon.
• Hang out at the Iowa State Fair‘s 400 acres of rides, games, food, animals and shows.

Kansas

Keeper of the plains

The Keeper of the Plains Plaza and statue in Wichita is an important tribute to Kansas’s Native American roots. Sitting on a grassy plaza at the intersection of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers, the Keeper is a touching sight. Stop in the Mid-American All-Indian Center to learn about Native American culture and be sure to come back at night for the “Ring of Fire” display.

More to see in Kansas

• History buffs will love Fort Larned National Historic Site. Visitors can explore an original army fort from the 1860s and watch live historical re-enactments.
• Hike through the country’s largest tallgrass prairie at Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
• Stop at the Oz Museum, one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of Wizard of Oz memorabilia.

Kentucky

Kentucky Derby

One of horse-racing’s most famous and prestigious racing events is the Kentucky Derby, which takes place at Churchill Downs, just outside Louisville, Kentucky. Besides watching the races that take place throughout the day, attendees can visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, admire the brightly colored fashion, and visit the horses in the paddocks. Be sure to drink at least one mint julep, the traditional Derby cocktail.

More to See in Kentucky

• Walk across the Natural Bridge at Red River Gorge. The natural sandstone bridge is 65 feet high and 78 feet long, creating a beautiful stone arch in the wilderness.
• Go underground at Mammoth Cave National Park, the world’s longest cave system.

Louisiana

French Quarter

The French Quarter is the central square and oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. This Historic District is where you will find colorful homes, spicy cajun food, and jazz clubs. Check out the French Market and St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square before having a drink on Bourbon Street. For one of the biggest parties in the country, visit during the the annual Mardis Gras celebration.

More to see in Louisiana

• Soak up the beauty of Oak Alley Plantation, especially the grand entrance; an 800 foot long double row of southern live oak trees.
• Get creeped out on a tour of Lafayette Cemetery, the oldest cemetery in New Orleans famous for its above ground tombs.

Maine

Portland Head Lighthouse

The iconic Portland Head Lighthouse stands at the entrance to Portsmouth harbor and is among the most photographed lighthouses in America. The jagged rocks and crashing waves along the coast are a photographers dream for a stunning shot of the famous light. The 90 acre park surrounds the lighthouse that is perfect for hiking to different viewpoints.

More to See in Maine

• Drive the scenic Park Loop around Acadia National Park, or hike to the summit of Cadillac mountain for views of the ocean.
• Go shopping and gallery hopping in the trendy coastal town of Kennebunkport.

Maryland

Inner Harbor

Baltimore’s Inner Harbour is a bustling seaport packed with things to see and do. Venture aboard the historic ships docked in the harbour, visit one of the 20,000 animals at the National Aquarium, and admire the art at the American Visionary Art Museum. Skip the touristy restaurants and head straight to the Charleston for a fancy dinner of award winning French-inspired low-country cuisine.

More to See in Maryland

• Visit the Edgar Allan Poe House and have a drink at the last saloon he stopped at before his death.
• Spend a sunny day at the beach in Ocean City relaxing in the sand.

Massachusetts

Freedom Trail

The 2.5 mile walking path through Boston known as the Freedom Trail passes 16 historic landmarks. The red brick trail takes visitors to historic churches, significant buildings, cemeteries, battlegrounds, and the Navy Yard to see the USS Constitution.

More to See in Massachusetts

• Tour Harvard University in the collegiate town of Cambridge.
• Experience the relaxed atmosphere of Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard islands.
• Contemplate life at Walden Pond, the famous spot in Henry David Thoreau’s writings.
• Learn about the grim history of the Witch Trials in Salem.

Michigan

Mackinac Island

Catch a ferry to Mackinac Island to experience this resort town’s quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Visitors spend their days strolling past shops and restaurants in the historic downtown, laying on the beach or hiking through the parks to Fort Mackinac. There are no motorized vehicles on the island, only horse-drawn carriages, adding to the sense to serenity. Be sure to spend an afternoon on the porch of the Grand Hotel for breathtaking views of Lake Huron.

More to See in Michigan

• Slide down the sand dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes.
• Tour the Henry Ford Museum to see an array of classic cars.
• Pretend you’re visiting Germany in Bavarian-inspired Frankenmuth.

Minnesota

North Shore Scenic Drive

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Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive, a nationally designated “All American Road” takes drivers along the Lake Superior shoreline and the edge of the Sawtooth Mountains. Visitors can stop at one of the many hiking trails to venture deeper into the parks by day, and then explore the artsy towns by night. The entire route is 142 miles long with access to eight different state parks along the way.

• Check out Minnesota Sculpture Garden, one of the largest urban sculpture gardens in the United States and home to the famous “Spoonbridge and Cherry” fountain.
• Shop till you drop, and ride the indoor roller coaster at the Mall of America.
• Tour the Split Rock Lighthouse at Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.

MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi Petrified Forest

Formed approximately 36 million years ago, the Petrified Forest in Mississippi is the only petrified forest in the eastern United States. Nature trails winding through the park let visitors examine the petrified trees up close. There is also a museum on site showcasing fossils, dinosaur footprints, and whale bones.

More to See in Mississippi

• Go back in time at William Faulkner’s restored mansion, Rowan Oak. Faulkner considered the home and it’s lush, wild gardens one of his prime inspirations.
• Climb to the top of the Biloxi Lighthouse on the Gulf Coast for a stunning view of the seashore.

MissOuri

Lake of the Ozarks

The Lake of the Ozarks in the Ozark Mountains is a prime vacation destination for both its scenery and water-sports. There are picturesque state parks for hiking, Party Cove for a rowdy afternoon on the water, or the luxury Lodge of Four Seasons for a relaxing afternoon. The lake is also famous for its fishing and local golf courses.

More to See in Missouri

• Take a tram to the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis for a panoramic view of the city.
• Eat dinner and see a show aboard the Showboat Branson-Belle Riverboat.

Montana

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is famous for its incredible views like the Triple Divide; the watershed between three drainage systems to the Pacific, the North Atlantic, and the Gulf of Mexico along Logan Pass. There are over 700 miles of hiking trails through diverse landscapes from lush alpine meadows to dense forests.

More to See in Montana

• View the largest collection of dinosaur skeletons at the Museum of the Rockies, including the world’s biggest T-Rex skull.
• See a herd of up to 500 bison at the National Bison Range.

Nebraska

Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Rising 480 feet into the air, Chimney Rock was once used as a landmark for pioneers heading westward along the Oregon Trail. An onsite visitors center is full of information about the area’s geology and history. Chimney rock is so iconic to Nebraska, it’s image was put on the state quarter. Visitors to the site are rewarded with an atmosphere that hasn’t changed much since those first settlers came through in the early 19th century.

More to See in Nebraska

• Spend an afternoon at the shops, galleries and restaurants in Omaha’s Old Market, a square-block revived warehouse district.
• Attend the Nebraska Star Party, an annual gathering of stargazers in an area with some of the darkest skies in the nation.

Nevada

Las Vegas Strip

Whether you want to gamble or not, a trip to Las Vegas is a must do at least once. WIth world class hotels, restaurants, shopping and shows there is something for everyone to enjoy. After checking out all the different casinos on the strip, head downtown to Fremont Street to see the original casinos in “Old Vegas.”

More to See in Nevada

• Marvel at the vast Hoover Dam, a National Historic Landmark that generates enough hydroelectric power to serve 1.3 million people every year.
• Visit Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, Valley of Fire. Be sure to drive through the park at sunset to see the breathtaking glow of the red rock.
• Ski in the winter and hike in the summer at Lake Tahoe.

New Hampshire

Mount Washington Cog Railway

Ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the top of Mount Washington, the highest peak in Northeast America. The 3 hours ride climbs 6000 feet to the summit. At the top is a small museum, visitor center and cafeteria. The real attraction at the top however, is the expansive view of New England below.

More to See in New Hampshire

• See the bright purple Lupines blanket the valley of the White Mountains in color during the spring.
• Go leaf peeping along the Kancamagus Highway during a fall road trip.

New Jersey

Cape May Historic DISTRICT

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Imagine a quaint seaside town full of classic Victorian architecture and you’ll have the Cape May Historic District. Besides touring the grand homes, visitors to Cape May enjoy sandy beaches, shopping at the outdoor Washington Street Mall, wineries and whale watching. Trolly tours are a great way to take it all in while learning the area’s history.

More to See in New Jersey

• Spend an afternoon on the Atlantic City Boardwalk eating saltwater taffy, shopping, and riding the rides at Steel Pier amusement park.
• Have lunch at one of the many local food vendors at Stockton Market, and pick up some homemade treats to take home.

New Mexico

Turquoise Trail

Driving the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway in New Mexico is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of this southwest state. This 52 mile drive from Sante Fe to Albuquerque has it all; gorgeous mountain views, a ghost town, artsy communities full of shops, museums and much more.

More to See in New Mexico

• Marvel at the stalactites in the “Big Room” at Carlsbad Caverns.
• Go sand sledding down the pristine white sand dunes at White Sands National Monument.
• Learn Native American history of the Puebloan people at Taos Pueblo, a protected UNESCO Heritage site.

New York

New York City

If planning a trip to New York City sounds overwhelming, you’re not alone. With so many things to do, and no way to do it all, how do you choose? The easiest way is to start with whatever interests you most. When you imagine yourself in New York City, what do you see? That could be taking a tour of the Statue of Liberty, spending an entire afternoon at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, or being touristy at Times Square. Start with those personnel must-dos and go from there.

More to See in New York

• Get away from the city to the Adirondacks and spend a weekend hiking, canoeing and camping.
• See the three waterfalls that make up Niagara Falls; Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls.

North Carolina

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks are a 200 mile long string of barrier islands covering most of the North Carolina coast line. Sandy beaches, a historic lighthouse, shipwreck diving sites and wild horses are just a few of the attractions that bring visitors back year after year.

More to See in North Carolina

• Tour the Biltmore, the largest private estate in the United States. The 250 room mansion is filled with artwork, antiques and other priceless objects.
• Slide down a natural 60-foot-tall natural rock water slide, appropriately named Sliding Rock, in the Pisgah National Forest.

North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

One of the lesser known National Parks, but just as beautiful and humbling as its counterparts is Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The park is split into two units, the most popular and accessible being the Southern Unit near the town of Medora. Beautiful hikes, adorable communities of prairie dogs and roaming bison await.

More to See in North Dakota

• Watch the Medora Musical, a live, outdoor variety show set against the stunning backdrop of Medora.
• Drive along the Enchanted Highway, a 32 mile stretch of road dotted with giant metal sculptures.

Ohio

Cedar Point

Spending a day at Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio may ruin other amusement parks for you in the future. Cedar point is a 364 acre amusement park that’s home to some of the top roller coasters in the world, many breaking world records. One particular coaster, Steel Vengeance, is the longest, tallest, and speediest coaster of its kind breaking 15 world records. Aside from the coasters, there are plenty of rides for kids of all ages, an adventure park, and even a beach on the shore of Lake Erie.

More to See in Ohio

• Hike through Hocking Hills to find incredible rock formations and sparkling waterfalls.
• Fans of The Shawshank Redemption should visit the imposing Mansfield State Reformatory, which served as a filming location for the movie.
• Taste your way through the West Side Market, Cleveland’s oldest market and home to over 100 vendors.

Oklahoma

Route 66

Oklahoma is home to the largest stretch of the iconic Route 66, one of the original highways of the U.S. As the first highway to connect Chicago and L.A., Route 66 was an important marker of change in America. Today, the road is a flashback into history. What people usually enjoy the most are the roadside attractions that seem to be stuck in the past. Historical museums, 1950’s diners, quirky roadside artwork, and old time filling stations are some of the favorites.

More to See in Oklahoma

• See the world’s largest collection of American Western Art at the Gilrease Museum in Tulsa.
• Observe the bison herd at the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. The bison freely roam 59,000 acres, while conservationists work to preserve their future in the U.S.

Oregon

Columbia River Gorge & Multnomah Falls

The Columbia River Gorge, a canyon off the Columbia River, offers what seems to be endless trails, scenic areas, and waterfalls. Of the 90 waterfalls flowing, crowd favorite is Multnomah Falls. It’s the tallest waterfall in Oregon, and one of the most picturesque. The river itself is over 1200 miles long with ample opportunity for rafting or kayaking.

More to See in Oregon

• Oregon’s only National Park, Crater Lake National Park is home some of Oregon’s best hiking and camping. The jewel of the park is the sparkling blue water of Crater Lake that’s one of the clearest lakes in the world.
• Powell’s City of Books is the largest new and used book store in the world. It completely takes over a city block and houses nearly one million books.
• International Rose Test Garden holds over 10,000 rose bushes producing nearly 650 varieties of roses. Visit from April-October to see what’s blooming.
• Visit the Pittock Mansion, a French Renaissance-style château in Portland. The 46 room home is enchanting in it’s own right, but the back lawn is also an ideal spot for pictures of the city’s skyline.

Pennsylvania

Independence National Park

One of the most historically significant spots in America, Independence National Park is a must see. Sitting in the middle of the park is Independence Hall, the exact spot where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the Constitution was drafted. Another piece of American History is the Liberty Bell, on display across the Hall in the Independence Mall. Around the rest of the park there are plenty of historic buildings and museums to occupy an afternoon.

More to See in Pennsylvania

• The Andy Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh shares insight into the artists life and works. It’s also home to one of Warhol’s most famous works, the Tomato Soup Cans.
• For something different, check out the Mutter Museum, a museum of medical history with some very unique displays. A skull collection, jars full of tumors, and plenty of skeletons. The Mutter may sound familiar, it’s often featured on travel and history T.V. shows.
• Check out one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most iconic buildings, the Fallingwater house.
• Sitting in downtown Philadelphia, the Reading Terminal Market is home to over 100 vendors selling all kinds of foods and goods.

Rhode Island

Block Island & Mohegan Bluffs

Just 10 miles offshore sits Block Island, home of the Mohegan Bluffs. The 3 mile stretch of picturesque bluffs rise nearly 200 feet above the sea. A beautiful sandy beach is accessible at the foot of the bluffs. The Southeast and the North Lighthouses are both great spots for taking photos, and the Southeast Lighthouse has a small museum to visit.

More to See in Rhode Island

• Tour The Breakers, a 70 room mansion built by Cornelius Vanderbilt in 1885, complete with a three story dining room.
• Walk the 3.5 mile Cliff Walk to admire the Rhode Island coastline and the gardens of the opulent mansions above.
• To see even more of the stunning coastline, drive the 10 Mile Drive. This scenic route passes points of interest like the U.S. Coast Guard Station, Fort Adams State Park, and the Museum of Yachting.

South Carolina

Charleston’s Historic District

It’s easy to spend an entire day strolling through Historic District in Charleston. This is a great city to take a walking tour to soak up all the information and stories possible. You will surely pass the historic homes, City Market and famous Rainbow Row. The series of 13 colorful row homes is one of the most photographed spots in Charleston. To end the day, watch the sunset at the pineapple fountain overlooking the harbour.

More to See in South Carolina

• Spend an afternoon sunbathing and swimming in the ocean at Myrtle Beach.
• Drive through the Avenue of Oaks to reach Boone Hall Plantation. Tour the Colonial Revival mansion, slave cabins and gardens.
• Walk the raised footpaths through the bright green swamp at Cypress Gardens.

South Dakota

Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is South Dakota’s most popular tourist attraction, and for good reason. We have seen the images of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt in countless books and magazines, but it’s truly spectacular to see with your own eyes. A staggering 400,000 tons of rock were blown away from the mountain to finish the sculpture. If you can, visit in both the daylight and night time. At night, the presidents are brightly illuminated to stand out against the dark sky.

More to See in South Dakota

• Go for a hike through Badlands National Park to see a variety of rock formations that almost seem to be from another planet.
• Little House on the Prairie fans must stop at the Ingalls Homestead, the place that inspired four of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books.
• Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, a sculpture built (and still being worked on) to honor the Indians of North America.

Tennessee

Nashville

Whether you’re a fan of country music or not, Nashville is a truly American spot not to miss. Spend a few hours listening to new country artists trying to get their big break at one of the many bars around town. For big time fans, tour or see a show at the Ryman auditorium, one of the most important venues in county music. When you’re hungry, take a break to try the local specialty, hot chicken.

More to See in Tennessee

• Spend a weekend in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge for easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Take in a whiskey tasting at Jack Daniel’s Distillery in Lynchburg.
• Pretend you’re in Greece and visit the Parthenon, a full scale replica built for the Tennessee Centennial Exposition of 1897.

Texas

Missions National Historical Park

A beautiful and moving visit to the San Antonio Missions (a UNESCO site) is a must-do when in Texas. Missions National Historical Park includes the city’s four southernmost Spanish colonial missions – Concepción, San José, San Juan and Espada Alamo. Franciscans and Spanish missionaries built the missions as part of their efforts to convert the Native population to Christianity and make them Spanish citizens. While it’s not part of the Historical Park, the Alamo is the fifth mission in San Antonio.

More to See in Texas

• Visit the Houston Space Center, a science museum and official visitor center for NASA. Even better, the center is home to Mission Control and the astronaut training facility.
• Take some photos at Prada Marfa, a one room replica art installation of a real Prada store, by artists Elmgreen and Dragset.
• Go hiking (or take a scenic drive) through Big Bend National Park, home to the largest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert U.S.

Utah

Arches Zion National Park & Zion National Park

Utah has the 3rd largest amount of National Parks in any state, and they are all U.S.A bucket list worthy. The two most popular are Zion and Arches. Zion is known for it’s 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs, and adventurers come from all over the world to climb. Arches is famous for, obviously, its arches. There are over 2,000 arches in the park,  the highest number of natural sandstone arches in the world.

More to See in Utah

• Go skiing or snowboarding in Park City, one of the premier destinations in the U.S. for winter sports.
• Float in the Great Salt Lake.
• Paddle board or kayak around Lake Powell.

Vermont

Fall Foliage

While fall foliage isn’t specific to Vermont, it’s easily one of the most stunning places to see it. Vermont offers an array of scenic drives across the state that pass through charming small towns, historic sites, vineyards and parks. Planning a road trip specifically to see fall foliage can be tricky but there are a few things you can do to prepare. If you only take a trip to see the electrifying colors of autumn in a place just as picturesque, make it in Vermont.

More to See in Vermont

• Take the Ben & Jerry’s Factory tour. Guides will tell the story of how the founders met and brought their ice cream dreams to life. The best part of course, is the samples.
• Plan a self guided driving tour to find some of the 100 Covered Bridges in Vermont, the state with the most covered bridges per square mile.
• Explore the Shelburne Museum’s world renowned collection of Americana.

VIRGINIA

Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial williamsburg

There is no better place to learn the story of America than Colonial Williamsburg. Costumed actors reenact historical events and what daily life looked like in the 18th century. Visitors are encouraged to explore at their leisure and talk to all the actors they meet to learn about Williamsburg. There are plenty of guided tours as well, like an orientation tour to help you get your bearings and a tavern ghost walk.

More to see in Virginia

• Take a day trip to drive the 105 mile Skyline Drive, the northern continuation of the Blue Ridge Parkway, for incredible views of Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains. While this is beautiful drive anytime of year, it’s especially stunning during the fall.
• See the wild ponies on Assateague Island. The entire island is a wildlife sanctuary, allowing the ponies to live freely on their own.
• Reflect and pay respects at Arlington National Cemetery, the final resting place of over 400,000 veterans and their immediate families.

WASHINGTON

Pike Place Market

The oldest continuously operating farmers market in the country, Pike Place Market is a Seattle landmark. Of course there are stalls full of farm fresh produce, but that’s just the beginning. Shops, bars, restaurants, and the famous salmon slinging fishmongers, and even the first Starbucks are all part of the Pike Place family. Consider taking a tour to see and try as much as possible during your visit.

More to See in Washington

• Mount Rainier National Park is the highest peak in the Pacific Northwest, rising 14,410 ft. and offering hundreds of hiking trails and scenic drives. It’s also one of the best spots in the U.S to see wildflowers in the spring.
• Ride to the 520 foot high observation deck of the Space Needle for sprawling views of Seattle and Puget Sound.
• Tour the Boeing Factory to see 747, 767, 777, and 787 Dreamliners being constructed on the assembly line.

Washington D.C.

national mall

The amount of history and culture in Washington D.C. can be overwhelming to visitors. Where does one even begin? A great option is to walk the National Mall (including the Tidal Basin), which is lined with some of the must-sees, including the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. Many top museums and the U.S Botanical Garden are also part of the National Mall. An entire trip could be dedicated to just exploring all these significant spots.

More to See in Washington D.C.

• With a total of 19 different Smithsonian museums (including galleries, gardens and a zoo) it’s a challenge to pick which ones to see. It’s hard to go wrong with the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, or the National Portrait Gallery. Consider adding one of the lesser publicized museums to your list, like the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum or the American Postal Museum.
• The Library of Congress is the biggest library in the world, officially serving as the research library to the United States Congress. Be sure to stop and see the handwritten Mainz Bible and a printed Gutenberg Bible.
• It’s not a trip to D.C without visiting The White House. First-timers especially should take a tour inside.
• Take a detour from the monuments and memorials and head to Georgetown, Washington D.C.’s oldest neighborhood. While it may be old, Georgetown has a modern vibe with an eclectic array of restaurants and shopping.

West Virginia

Harpers Ferry

The town of Harpers Ferry, where the Shenandoah River meets the Potomac River, is a small town with a lot of history. Museums, historical buildings and exhibits tell the story of small town life in an era of westward expansion before the Civil War. Don’t worry, there are plenty of shops, cafes and coffee shops when it’s time for a break from all that history.

More to See in West Virginia

• Walk a part of the Appalachian Trail. A 2-3 mile round trip of the trail from Harpers Ferry will take just a few hours and allow you to say you walked part of the Appalachian Trail!
• Hike to the top of Seneca Rocks for sprawling views of the Monongahela National Forest.
• Check out the most photographed spot in West Virginia, the New River Gorge Bridge.

WIsconsin

Apostle Islands

The Apostle Islands are a collections of 21 islands off the coast of Lake Superior. One of the best ways to see the lighthouses, beautiful rock formations, forests and caves is by boat or kayak. For those who would rather stay put there are plenty of great fishing spots and even underwater rock formations for scuba divers. Visitors can even camp overnight to soak up as much of the day as possible on the islands.

More to see in Wisconsin

• Door County, a peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan, is filled with hiking trails, wineries, boutiques and art galleries. During the fall, it’s also a premier destination for a fall foliage road trip.
• Explore the “the jewel box” of caves in North America; the Cave of the Mounds is known for its magnificent limestone stalactites.
• Check out over 450 motorcycles and artifacts at the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee.

Wyoming

 A-OK Corral 

For a truly Wyoming experience, spend a day horseback riding at the A-OK Corral. Riders are treated to spectacular views of the Grand Teton Mountain Range, Snake River, and plenty of wildflowers. Stop for a picnic lunch and keep your eyes open for the area’s local wildlife. If time is limited, the 2 hour sunset ride is another great option.

More to See in Wyoming

• See the most well known sight in Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful. The famous geyser erupts about 20 times every single day.
• Don’t leave Yellowstone without stopping at the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States. What really draws in the spectators are the bright rings of color, especially the dazzling blue center.
• Follow the 7.5-mile-long scenic drive around Fossil Butte National Monument. Take a break at the visitor center to see more than 300 fossils on display.

U.S.A Bucket List.. Let’s go!

After reading through that list, or simply looking at the pictures, it gets me so inspired to plan more trips around the U.S. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side of the border.