Image is Antelope Canyon
All work and no play is a bore, so let’s talk vacation. When should you take it? Where should you go? Count up those PTO days, because we’ve rounded up our favorite U.S. travel destinations that you definitely want to visit in your lifetime. All you have to do is click on the links to get to these destination travel pages.
Fun in the Sun
With warm temps year-round, you can count on Arizona for a little heat. Check out some outdoorsy hot spots like Antelope Canyon, the Painted Desert, or Horseshoe Bend, and don’t forget the Grand Canyon! If you’re more about the hustle and bustle, head to Phoenix or Scottsdale for some city living!
While you’re close, cross the border into Nevada, and spend the night partying in Las Vegas. When you’re done, visit Valley of Fire State Park or Red Rock Canyon to admire some larger-than-life topography.
Another must-see? California! Marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, then party like a celebrity in Los Angeles, making sure you leave plenty of time for Rodeo Drive, Sunset Boulevard, Venice Beach, and the Hollywood sign! If that’s not your speed, take it slow at Yosemite National Park, or taste some world-famous wines in Napa Valley.
Florida is an iconic vacation and retirement spot for a reason. You’ll want to check out Miami, then head down to the Florida Keys for a good time. Stop in Orlando for theme parks galore, or look into Destin for some white-sand beaches and ultimate relaxation.
Mountains of Entertainment
Tennessee is an excellent place for a dose of the Smokies. Pack your hiking shoes and hit the Gatlinburg SkyBridge and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you’re an Elvis fan, don’t miss Graceland in Memphis. And who could forget the “Birthplace of Country Music’: Nashville.
Colorado is a rock climber’s dream. Some must-sees? The biggest sand dunes in the U.S. at Great Sand Dunes National Park, Garden of the Gods, and Pikes Peak. Of course, you’ll want to leave time for Rocky Mountain National Park. And you simply have to spend a night in Denver.
Midwestern Adventures
Visit Illinois for a lot of agriculture, and while you’re there, stop by Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield. Then head to Chicago for some deep-dish pizza and a selfie in front of “The Bean” in Millennium Park.
Indiana offers fun in the form of Indianapolis, where you’ll find good eats and experience the “Greatest Race Course in the World.” For unmatched city views, climb 330 steps to the top of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument.
Is Missouri in the south or the Midwest? It’s a common disagreement between the state and its neighbors. Visit Lake of the Ozarks or Branson, the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World,” and decide for yourself.
Is this every U.S. destination you should visit? Absolutely not! The world is full of wonder, and you should experience as much as you can. This list is just a start to inspire you to start planning that much-needed vacation.