Tips for Your Ultimate U.S. Journey

The United States isn’t a top choice for many backpackers or budget travelers. Most visitors from overseas come for a short trip, often sticking to a couple of big cities or theme parks like Disney before heading back home. For years, few Americans explored their own country by car — until COVID-19 changed that.

The U.S. is a huge country, but it can be challenging to explore without a car. Hostels are rare, public transport doesn’t connect many parts, and the country doesn’t offer working holiday visas like other travel destinations do. This makes travel more difficult, especially for young, budget-conscious travelers.

That said, the U.S. has so much to offer: stunning national parks, diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, great music, and unique foods across different regions. I personally think a road trip is the best way to experience America. While big cities on the coasts are fun, some of the most memorable spots are in small towns and the countryside, where travel is also cheaper. Even if you don’t have months to spend on a road trip, you can still see a lot by using planes, trains, and buses. This USA Travel Guide will walk you through all the best places to visit in the country with detail information read till to the end.

If you are in United States in the month December read this post to enjoy your Christmas Holidays.

USA Travel Guide Explore New York City

NYC is a city like no other, offering something for everyone. With world-famous museums, art galleries, diverse food, Central Park, and unique neighborhoods like Brooklyn, there’s endless excitement. Take a ferry to Ellis Island, visit the Statue of Liberty, or catch a Yankees game. Read the USA Travel Guide while planning a trip to United States.

1. Visit the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that’s breathtakingly beautiful. You can enjoy the view from the top or, if you have the time, hike down to the Colorado River to experience its vastness up close. Even shorter hikes, like Grandview Trail, offer great views, while longer trails like Bright Angel Trail provide a full-day adventure. Bring plenty of water! for detail and enjoy your holidays go through this post USA Travel Guide.

2. Discover Austin, Texas

Austin has a little bit of everything: live music, great food, outdoor activities, and warm weather. Barton Springs Pool is a perfect spot to cool off, and 6th Street offers great live music and nightlife. Don’t miss out on Texas BBQ while you’re here!

3. Visit Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has towering snow-capped mountains, scenic lakes, and over 700 miles of hiking trails. You can explore on your own or join guided tours with park rangers. If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider the $80 annual park pass to save on entry fees.

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic drive from San Diego to Seattle, covering beautiful cliffs, beaches, and giant redwoods. It takes about 10 hours without stopping, but plan to spend a few days exploring the unique stops along the way.

Other Great Places to Visit in the U.S.

4. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis has a gritty charm, known for its blues music, amazing food, and the Civil Rights Museum. Visit Graceland, stroll along the river, and enjoy the lively local culture. The city is making a big comeback and is definitely worth a visit with this USA Travel Guide.

5. Asheville, North Carolina USA Travel Guide

Asheville has a thriving craft beer scene, beautiful mountain views, and the impressive Biltmore Estate. The nearby Smoky Mountains offer lots of outdoor adventures, and the town has a laid-back vibe that’s welcoming to travelers.

6. Redwood National Park, California

Home to towering redwoods, this park is awe-inspiring and peaceful. There are miles of trails and picnic areas, and it’s free to enter (though some connected state parks charge a small fee). It’s a perfect place for hiking and nature lovers.

The U.S. has endless travel options, and you could spend months exploring just one region. For more ideas, check out specific city guides and other travel articles. Happy travels!

More Top Things to See and Do in the USA

7. Explore Denver

Known as the Mile High City, Denver offers a great mix of outdoor adventure and city life. The city has a fantastic craft beer scene, top-notch restaurants (Sushi Sasa is a favorite), and plenty of art and culture. Museums like the Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf, and the Clifford Still Museum are must-visits. There’s public art everywhere, and if you prefer a guide, there are walking tours too. The locals are friendly, and the city is clean and lively this post USA Travel Guide will help you to discover your favorite destinations.

8. Go Off the Beaten Path in Natchez

Natchez is a hidden gem with beautiful 19th-century mansions overlooking the Mississippi River. These grand homes, once built by wealthy plantation owners, are now historic sites. It’s not easy to get here without a car, but it’s worth the journey to see a piece of history in a quieter part of the South.

9. Visit Savannah

Savannah is charming, with Spanish moss-draped oak trees, beautiful parks, and a bustling waterfront. The city escaped damage during the Civil War, preserving its old-world beauty. There are many historical spots like Bonaventure Cemetery and Factors Row, as well as nearby Tybee Island for a relaxing beach day.

10. Discover Nashville’s Music Scene

Nashville’s growing quickly, with a legendary music scene, great Southern food, and friendly locals. Though not packed with tourist sites, the city’s atmosphere, music, and food make it memorable. Spend some time at the Tennessee State Museum for a surprising look at local history.

11. Enjoy the Sun in San Diego

San Diego’s sunny, comfortable weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities. The Gaslamp area and Pacific Beach are packed with trendy restaurants, bars, and incredible taco spots. Locals are active and friendly, taking full advantage of the beaches and hiking trails around the city. Go through this post USA Travel Guide to know what you see and do in the US beautiful places.

12. Sip Wine in California’s Wine Country

California’s Wine Country, including Napa and Sonoma, is famous for world-class wines. While Sonoma is generally more budget-friendly, both are ideal for a special experience. Book a tour or cozy vineyard stay, and enjoy tastings that range from $15 to $20. Three Fat Guys winery in Sonoma has excellent reds worth trying.

13. Hike at Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe offers incredible scenery for hiking, boating, and skiing. Kings Beach is a great spot to relax, and trails like Rubicon and Cascade Falls range from easy to challenging. It’s a perfect spot for year-round outdoor activities.

14. Get Away to Montana

Montana’s natural beauty is hard to beat, with endless mountains, friendly locals, and a vibrant craft beer scene. For peaceful outdoor experiences, good food, and wide-open landscapes, Montana is a nature lover’s dream.

15. Unwind on Cape Cod

Cape Cod is perfect for a laid-back beach vacation with charming small towns like Provincetown and Hyannis, and lesser-known gems like Chatham and Wellfleet. Known for seafood and boardwalks, it’s a great place to relax with family. At the end of this USA Travel Guide you will find the best places to stay and eat wherever you go read till the end.

16. Step Back in Time in Deadwood

Deadwood, in South Dakota, is a town rich in Old West history, once frequented by legendary figures like Wyatt Earp and Wild Bill Hickok. Though slightly kitschy, it’s a fun place to experience frontier days. It’s also close to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore, making it a great base for exploring.

17. Enjoy Kansas City’s BBQ and History

Kansas City is famous for its mouthwatering barbecue, rich jazz history, and welcoming atmosphere. Known as the “Barbecue Capital,” it offers legendary spots like Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que and Gates Bar-B-Q, serving smoky, flavorful meats that attract food lovers from around the world.

The city’s jazz heritage shines at the American Jazz Museum, located in the historic 18th & Vine District. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sounds of legends like Charlie Parker and Count Basie while exploring interactive exhibits that celebrate the genre’s legacy.

Just next door, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum tells the inspiring story of African American baseball players who broke barriers and enriched America’s favorite pastime.

For art enthusiasts, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art features a stunning collection spanning centuries, alongside its iconic Shuttlecocks sculpture on the front lawn.

Kansas City is also home to the Country Club Plaza, a Spanish-inspired shopping and dining district perfect for a leisurely stroll, and Union Station, a historic landmark featuring exhibits, theaters, and the captivating Science City.

Underrated yet full of surprises, Kansas City offers a mix of culture, history, and delicious cuisine that makes it a must-visit destination for travelers.

18. USA Travel Guide: Embrace the Unique Vibe in Portland

Portland, Oregon, is known for its food trucks, craft beer, quirky bars, art scene, and gorgeous parks. Summer festivals and nearby mountains for hiking make it a perfect summer destination. It’s a city that’s truly one of a kind.

19. Explore the National Parks

The U.S. has 63 national parks, plus many state and local parks, each showcasing unique landscapes. Highlights include Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, and the Smokies. To visit multiple parks, consider the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which gives you a year of free entry to all national parks.

20. Admire the Architecture in Chicago

Chicago is known for its striking architecture, scenic parks, deep-dish pizza, and lively nightlife. Take an architecture river cruise, check out Millennium Park’s “Bean,” and visit the Navy Pier. Chicago also has one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day parades in the U.S.

Experience New Orleans’ Culture and Music

With its French influence, vibrant music scene, and amazing seafood, New Orleans is a treat for visitors. Frenchman Street is ideal for jazz lovers, and City Park is a great spot to wander under massive oaks. If you visit for Mardi Gras, book early, as the city fills up fast.

Get Some Sun in Hawaii

Hawaii offers paradise beaches, lush jungles, and great snorkeling. Don’t miss the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Pearl Harbor, and trails like Diamond Head. Every island has its own charm, and if possible, try to visit more than one.

Discover Boston’s History

Boston, my hometown, has a small-town feel with cobblestone streets, historic sites, and classic New England architecture. Walk the Freedom Trail, relax in Boston Common, and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.

21. Discover the Nation’s Capital

Washington, D.C. is a must-visit for history and culture lovers. Don’t miss this post USA Travel Guide to find your favorite place to visit. The city boasts some of the best museums in the country, most of which are free, thanks to the Smithsonian Institution. Due to its many embassies, D.C. is incredibly diverse, so you can sample cuisine from all over the world. Don’t miss iconic sites like the National Mall, the Holocaust Museum, and Smithsonian highlights like the Air and Space Museum, African American Museum, and the National Zoo. Springtime is especially popular, as cherry blossoms bloom along the Mall, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

22. Experience Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore, completed in 1941, is a unique U.S. landmark in the Black Hills of South Dakota. While smaller than many imagine, it’s rich with historical significance. Originally inhabited by the Lakota Sioux, the area was taken during the gold rush, leading to the tragic Wounded Knee Massacre. Mount Rushmore was later carved here, a decision that remains controversial for the indigenous communities who hold the land as sacred. Guided tours provide insight into the complex legacy of this iconic monument.

23. Embrace Your Inner Child at Disney World

It might be geared toward kids, but Disney World is a blast for adults, too! The theme park offers thrilling rides, themed attractions, and some genuinely good restaurants. Disney Springs has a lively nightlife scene perfect for an evening out. Although tickets are on the pricier side, around $110 per day, the experience of escaping into the magic of Disney makes it worth the splurge.

24. Tackle the Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Mountains, stretching along the eastern U.S., offer some of the best hiking and camping opportunities in the country. The 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail spans the entire mountain range and typically takes 5-7 months for thru-hikers to complete. But you don’t need to commit to the whole trail; shorter day hikes or weekend trips provide a fantastic outdoor getaway. More details are here in this USA Travel Guide.

25. Get Away to Put-In-Bay

Located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Put-in-Bay is a favorite among Midwesterners looking for a unique weekend escape. With golf carts for transportation and bars with sand floors, the island has a casual, beachy vibe. Mojito Bay is a highlight, an outdoor tiki bar with swings for seats and an impressive list of mojito varieties. The island gets lively on weekends, so prepare for some fun nightlife!

26. Road Trip Through Maine

Maine is the quintessential New England destination, full of rugged coastline, dense forests, and quaint fishing villages. Indulge in lobster rolls, hike through the stunning Acadia National Park, and visit historic lighthouses like the Portland Head Light. Portland itself is a haven for foodies, with must-try spots like Duckfat and Eventide Oyster Co. For craft beer fans, Bangor is full of local breweries. Maine’s pristine landscapes and small-town charm make it one of the best states for a road trip.

27. Embark on a U.S. Road Trip

There’s no better way to experience America’s diversity and scenery than on a road trip. From coast to coast or regional routes around New England, California, and the South, road-tripping offers a chance to see places most travelers miss. With careful planning, and reading USA Travel Guide, it can be affordable too — car rentals can cost under $50 per day with deals from services like Discover Cars.

28. Take a Guided Tour

Whether you’re in a city or exploring the countryside, guided tours provide a local’s perspective and deeper understanding of an area. From walking and bike tours to food and historical tours, there’s something for every interest. Walks is a reliable company that offers immersive tours with knowledgeable guides, making it easy to explore in a fun, insightful way. Every thing is mentioned in this USA Travel Guide for readers to make it easy their travel in USA.

How to Stay Safe in the United States

The U.S. is generally safe for travelers, but safety can vary by area. Petty crime, like theft, is more common in tourist hotspots, especially in larger cities on the West Coast. Gun violence, while widely publicized, is relatively rare for visitors. Following basic precautions, like securing belongings and being cautious in high-crime areas, can go a long way.

For solo female travelers, the U.S. is generally safe, but it’s still wise to follow standard safety tips. Travel insurance is recommended for all, covering unexpected illness, injuries, theft, or trip cancellations.

Recommended Accommodation in the U.S.

Hostels are still emerging in the U.S., but many budget-friendly hotels and social hostels are available nationwide. Here are a few recommended options:

Seattle: Mar Queen Hotel, Green Tortoise Hostel

Boston: HI Hostel, The Revolution Hotel

Chicago: HI Hostel, The Arlo

Los Angeles: Banana Bungalow, Hollywood Historic Hotel

Miami: Freehand, Hotel Ocean

New Orleans: HI New Orleans, Villa Convento

New York City: The Local, Heritage Hotel

San Diego: ITH Adventure Hostel, Old Town Inn

San Francisco: Green Tortoise, SW Hotel

With so much to see and do, your journey through the United States promises an unforgettable adventure, This Travel Guide to US Must Visit Places will help you explore the towns.