12 Bucket-List Trips in the US That Will Change the Way You See America
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The US is a traveler’s paradise full of nature, culture, and exciting destinations. There are a handful of trips that you should put on your bucket list today.
The US is a huge country that’s full of diverse regions. From exciting cities to historical monuments and endless nature, there’s something for every traveler in the US.
Besides its beauty and iconic sights are its culture, cuisine, and friendly people who make traveling through the country so epic. Below are the 12 bucket-list trips in the US that will rock your world.
Yosemite National Park
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Known for its striking waterfalls, ancient trees, endless natural monuments, and picnic basket-loving bears, Yosemite National Park in the Northern California Sierras is like nowhere else on Earth.
The park was inaugurated in 1864, making it one of the oldest national parks in the US. If you love camping or hiking, you’re in for an experience of a lifetime. With endless trails and world-famous geological formations, you’ll feel like you’re in a documentary series.
Don’t miss seeing landmarks such as Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Hike the beautiful Valley Loop Trail to see the landscapes around Cathedral Rocks, and stop in Curry Village for amazing food and drink to fuel your adventures.
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New Orleans, Louisiana
Few cities in the US can have such an impact on a visitor as New Orleans, Louisiana. This historic city is where jazz, Cajun culture, and art merge into a non-stop party. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
In New Orleans, you can find yourself dancing through the night at one of Bourbon Street’s famous nightclubs. Or, explore the historic landmarks in the French Quarter before making your way to the Garden District for an epic walk.
The Big Easy also has fun activities like ghost tours and bayou rides. No matter if you’re staying for a weekend or two weeks, you’ll probably find it hard to leave.
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Yellowstone National Park
Another bucket list trip for nature lovers is Yellowstone National Park, between Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. Yellowstone was the first national park in the country and is still one of the most visited.
The area is like a wonderland for nature. Huge animals like elk and bears roam through geysers and mountain forests. You’ll see some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world and feel like you’re on a shoot for National Geographic.
One of the highlights of Yellowstone National Park is driving through the park and exploring its trails on foot. You’ll need several days to get the full experience of seeing wild buffalo or watching geysers shoot boiling water hundreds of feet into the sky. If nature is your thing, it’s hard to top this bucket list journey.
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The Great Lakes
The Great Lakes cover an area that borders eight states. Regardless of where you visit them, their magical appeal and limitless beauty will enchant anyone who loves water and nature.
You’ll have several destinations to choose from. If you want to experience the Great Lakes’ big cities, head to Chicago or Detroit. These coastal cities are rich in culture, natural beauty, and Great Lakes charm.
For a wilder experience in nature, drive up the coasts of Michigan or Wisconsin. You’ll experience charming coastal communities, beautiful dunes, and some of the best sunrises and sunsets in the country.
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Olympic National Park
Just a few hours from Seattle is the Olympic National Park. For a nature-based bucket list trip, it won’t disappoint. Throw on your flannel and crank up the radio as you explore temperate rainforests and snow-capped mountains.
The park is best done as a road trip from Seattle. There are several exciting small towns to stay in on the way. From the coastal bays and lighthouses of the Makah Indian Reservation to the musical town of Aberdeen, you’ll have endless magic surrounding you.
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If you’re a hiker, this will be the bucket list trip of a lifetime. From dense coastal forests to majestic mountains, no matter which trail you take, you’ll be in for a treat.
Read also: Amazing Hiking Trails in the US
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For history lovers, head to Philadelphia for a bucket list trip straight out of the 17th century. The city was where the Declaration of Independence was signed and where many of the country’s early historical events took place.
You’ll visit landmarks such as Independence National Historical Park and the Liberty Bell Center. After seeing the city’s historical sights, you can take in its energy downtown.
Another epic bucket-list-worthy experience is driving through the surrounding countryside. You’ll be immersed in all-American orchards, small towns, and forests that saw the birth of the country.
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Grand Canyon National Park
It’s hard for anyone to describe the sheer awe-inspiring beauty of the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon National Park is a bucket list trip everybody should do at least once in their lives. For Americans, it’s a right of passage.
This gigantic canyon is cut in half by the mighty Colorado River. The colorful cliffs tower over 6,000 feet over the river, making it one of the most dramatic sights in nature.
The national park is a perfect road trip from other cities in Arizona. Nearby, you’ll be in the heart of several Native American tribes. You can learn about their histories and culture in places like the Tusayan Pueblo Museum and the Hopi House.
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Sedona, Arizona
Few bucket list destinations mix natural beauty and unique cultural sights more than Sedona, Arizona. This desert city is located in the rock rocks of central Arizona. Within this stunning landscape are natural monuments that have become famous for their spiritual energy.
Take your time visiting and hiking around the rock formations such as Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Courthouse Butte. Each formation has beautiful trails that go around it and into the desert wilderness nearby.
Besides the city’s renowned natural scenery are its cultural attractions, spiritual retreats, and beloved restaurants and cafes. You can spend weeks in Sedona and just scratch the surface of this bucket-list-worthy destination.
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Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is where dreams are made. From movies and TV to art and music, anyone who loves entertainment has to visit LA at least once.
When you come to LA, there are endless things to explore. You’ll have world-class theaters, museums, and theme parks. You’ll also have world-famous restaurants, bars, and nightlife to keep you busy day and night.
Another draw of the city is its surrounding nature. Take a drive in the nearby San Gabriel Mountains, and you’ll feel like you’re in the Wild West. Or take a drive along Highway 1 to see some of the country’s most famous beaches.
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Austin, Texas
Austin is way more than honky-tonks and radios — although you don’t have to look far for those, either. Texas’s capital city has a thriving music and culinary scene that ranks it at the top of the bucket list for trips to the US.
Take your time to stroll through its exciting downtown. Then, hit the town at night to catch endless live shows at one of the city’s bars and music venues.
Another highlight of an Austin, Texas, vacation is driving through the surrounding countryside. Texas’ high country is full of vineyards, rolling hills, and riverside parks that will make you want to move there. If you do, you’ll need a few guitars and cowboy hats to fit in.
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Blue Ridge Mountains
The misty Blue Ridge Mountains are a road-tripper’s paradise. The mountains stretch along the horizon between the states of North and South Carolina, Georgia, West Virginia, Virginia, and Tennessee.
The best way to see the mountains in all their grandeur is by driving the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. This famous motorway winds through mountain passes and romantic country towns from Virginia to Georgia.
Set aside a week to really explore the region. You can also spend a few days in the cities of Asheville, North Carolina, or Roanoke, Virginia. This is Americana at its finest, so crank the bluegrass music and hit the road.
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New York City, New York
For a true dose of American culture and history, it’s hard to top New York City. With its towering monuments, historic neighborhoods, and endless sights and experiences, it’s easy to see why.
You’ll find iconic landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. The Big Apple is also where globally popular American art forms such as hip-hop, breakdancing, and graffiti got their start.
There are five boroughs to explore, with Manhattan being the most visited. Imagine walking through Central Park, museum-hopping in Brooklyn, and seeing the Statue of Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry. The perfect travel experience is at your fingertips in New York City.
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