30 FAVORITE PLACES TO VISIT IN THE USA IN 2024

Favorite places to visit in the USA. The United States has a very different geography, both physically and culturally, from sea to shining sea. After spending months exploring it, I have a profound respect for everything that my nation has to offer.

I wanted to share some of my favorite spots in the United States with you after taking several cross-country road trips across the continental United States (you never truly know how huge Texas is until you drive through it—damn that state is big!). Since I’ve previously discussed my favorite eateries and life lessons, it only seems fitting to provide you with a list of the top USA tourist destinations when you visit!

FAVORITE PLACES TO VISIT IN THE USA

1. Memphis

Memphis seems to have passed its prime, but despite its gritty, industrial, and somewhat dilapidated appearance, the city is still home to some of the best food and a thriving blues music scene. For King enthusiasts, there’s also Graceland, Elvis Presley’s mansion, a large waterfront for strolling, and the incredible, in-depth, and poignant Museum of Civil Rights (take your time; it’s large). I was let down when I had to leave the city since I had loved it more than I had anticipated. It is, to coin a phrase, a hidden gem!

WHERE TO STAY IN MEMPHIS: Hostel Memphis, a trendy hostel housed in a 100-year-old building includes free WiFi and a fully-stocked kitchen. In addition, the hostel is a nonprofit organization that contributes all of its earnings to local social justice initiatives.

2. Austin

I moved in here in 2020, and I adore my new place. Austin has it all: gorgeous weather, exciting live music venues and honky tonks, fun house bars on Rainey Street, first-rate hiking and bicycling paths, and an abundance of outdoor sports.

I eat a lot and eat well, all the time because of the expanding number of food trucks and the flagship Whole Foods with the amazing salad bar (grilled pineapple!). The University of Texas campus in Austin gives the city a youthful vitality, and its liberal outlook draws a varied and eclectic crowd. To put it briefly, you cannot avoid Austin because I will track you down and take you there.

WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTIN: Firehouse Hostel, which is conveniently situated in the city center and is housed in a former 1885 Firehall. They feature lots of relaxing common rooms, quick Wi-Fi, and a wonderful on-site bar with excellent craft cocktails.

3. New Orleans

The city of New Orleans has a soul. It has endured hardships, yet it continues to live with a zest for life that is unsurpassed in most places. With a rich and lengthy history (don’t miss the haunted walking tour while you’re here), it offers delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine with a French influence, live jazz music, street performers, and a love of life’s temptations. In the Big Easy, people lead happy lives. You are not here to unwind; rather, you are here to delight! New Orleans is among the most colorful and diverse cities in the country, in my opinion.

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WHERE TO STAY IN NOLA: The multi-award-winning hostel HI New Orleans offers roomy rooms, comfortable beds, privacy curtains, and quick Wi-Fi. All the necessities for a thrifty traveler!

4. Asheville

In the mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is like Portland—it’s full of hipsters, delicious food, and craft beer. I enjoyed the region, and it was close to some amazing and picturesque mountain treks, like the Carolina Mountain Trail. For those looking for something closer, the town has a ton of parks; in particular, be sure to visit the Ashville Botanical Gardens, which are adjacent to the university campus. The enormous Biltmore estate, the biggest privately held house in the US and the former residence of George Vanderbilt is located outside of the city, and the stunning Smoky Mountains are only a short drive away.

The house is similar to Downton Abbey if you’ve ever watched it! (And, since the show is addictive, if you haven’t, you really should!)

WHERE TO STAY IN ASHEVILLE: Bon Paul & Sharky’s is a relaxed hotel with large porches on the front and rear for lounging. Free Wi-Fi and parking are available, and there are many eateries and cafes in the area.

5. The Pacific Coastal Drive

One of the world’s most picturesque drives is the one down the Pacific Coast. I have to concur. I didn’t drive the entire coast, but the part I did (from San Francisco to Portland) was breathtaking, with miles of beaches, towering redwoods, and forests down to the coast. It’s astounding in every sense. You can expect to move slowly because you will stop frequently to hike, take in the scenery, and take in the vista. I enjoyed Mendocino, California, and Bandon and Coos Bay, Oregon.

WHERE TO STAY ON THE PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY: If you don’t want to camp in one of the many parks, Airbnb is your best option here. Numerous budget motels can also be found all along the roadway.

6. Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a vast region of enormous redwood trees with picnic sites, camping areas, and miles and miles of hiking paths located along the Pacific Coast. Several loops go to neighboring beaches, and the trails range in difficulty from easy to difficult. It is breathtakingly gorgeous, astounding, and humble all at once. For anyone on a road trip across California, it is a necessity.

WHERE TO STAY IN REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK: View Crest Resort, a rustic, reasonably priced resort with basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and TV and some rooms with full kitchens, is situated on Trinidad’s coast. It’s a tidy, comfortable, and basic location to spend the night.

7. Glacier National Park

I was astounded by the area even though I visited during a time when the majority of the park was still closed due to the early season and the presence of snow. There were numerous hiking trails, stunning mountains with snow-capped peaks rising high into the sky, and a serene lake from which to view the mountains and massive glaciers. I can now understand why everyone is raving about it because it was the most astounding location I visited during my trip. I can’t stress how much going there is recommended.

WHERE TO STAY IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK: Campout – Bring a tent, or rent one, and spend a few evenings relaxing outside beneath the stars. You will not be let down.

8. Denver

Denver, the mile-high city known for its legal marijuana and mix of big-city living and outdoor ruggedness, is a unique blend. It boasts a thriving craft beer industry (don’t miss the beer-tasting tour!), top-notch dining options (try Sushi Sasa, which is among my best sushi places ever), a sizable international airport with plenty of connections, and easy access to the mountains. It’s tidy, and the people there are quite welcoming. I’m not sure how many US cities I want to live in, but Denver is one of them because I adore it so much.

WHERE TO STAY IN DENVER: Ember Hostel, a boutique hostel with a swanky décor, free jacuzzi, free outdoor firepit, soft mattresses with blackout curtains, free parking, and more, is recognized as one of the best in the nation.

9. Chicago

There isn’t a better city in the country when the weather is pleasant, in my opinion. Located on the banks of Lake Michigan, fun boasts top-notch dining options (be sure to sample the deep dish, sushi, and hot dogs), iconic architecture, the lively and quirky Navy Pier, Millennium Park with its well-known bean-shaped statue, and an impressive aquarium. Don’t miss the architectural tours offered by the city.

Positive energy permeates the city as Chicagoans emerge from their houses to enjoy the summer warmth once the harsh ice of winter ends. Make the most of it.

WHERE TO STAY IN FUN: HI Chicago is a large, spotless hostel in a prime location that offers free WiFi, female-only dorms, and other amenities. The large common room and comfortable beds make it effortless to socialize.

10. New York City

New York City’s famous skyline on a sunny summer day
The city without a night. Well said. Here, you really can’t go wrong.

WHERE TO STAY IN NYC: Jazz on the Park – This budget hostel is one of the more reasonably priced options in the city and is situated close to the train, right next to Central Park on the Upper West Side. Although the mattresses aren’t particularly comfortable or stylish, the dorms are reasonably priced (at least for NYC!).

11. Natchez

This Mississippi city surprised me the most. Although I was unaware of it, Natchez was suggested as a location to view historic 19th-century houses, which were constructed by solitary plantation owners who desired a summer getaway where they could engage and mingle with one another. The homes got bigger and more ornate as cotton ruled supremely.

These are now historic monuments that you can tour and take in the Mississippi River vista. Off the usual route, this is my favorite find from my most recent road trip.

WHERE TO STAY IN NATCHEZ: The Guest House Historic estate – If you’re willing to splurge, this 19th-century estate offers air-conditioned, spacious historic rooms with modern conveniences like Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, along with free breakfast.

See this post on my trip to Natchez for additional travel advice.

12. Savannah

Savannah, which is located on Georgia’s coast, supposedly evaded General Sherman’s fury during the Civil War because he believed it was too beautiful to demolish. Savannah is a great spot to feel the laid-back vibe of the Old South, with its vibrant waterfront, spacious parks, and streets lined with trees coated with Spanish moss. Even though I had been to this city a very long time ago, its beauty, comfort food from the South, and peaceful atmosphere have never left me.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAVANNAH: The downtown area can be reached in just five minutes by foot from the reasonably priced three-star Thunderbird Inn. With a nostalgic feel, it offers complimentary coffee and juice in the morning along with free popcorn and donuts in the lobby.

13. The Grand Canyon

An expansive panorama seen on a beautiful day in Arizona from the top of the Grand Canyon
It is impossible to put into words how magnificent the Grand Canyon is. Its immense size, amazing depth, vibrant red colors, and beautiful views are just a few of its many amazing features. Most visitors just stand at the edge of the canyon and gaze out over it, but hiking to the bottom is the greatest way to truly appreciate its immensity and beauty. Spend some time hiking the less-traveled routes down to the Colorado River, camp there for the night, and then trek back up in time for sunset.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE GRAND CANYON: Camp: Get a tent and spend a few nights beneath the stars either packing it yourself or renting one. However, they sell out quickly, so you’ll need to reserve a space in advance!

14. Nashville

Nashville, which combines elements of country and technology, is one of the US cities with the quickest rates of growth, and with good reason. It features some classic Southern eateries, a burgeoning cocktail bar culture, and an amazing music scene that includes the world-famous Grand Ole Opry.

Although there isn’t a lot of “touristy stuff” to do in this city, I still think it’s one of my favorites because of the food, music, incredibly happy and friendly locals, and overall pleasant vibe. Make time to visit the Tennessee State Museum for a few hours while you are here. It covers the state’s history in great detail, albeit occasionally in a highly biased manner, but it’s much more interesting than you might imagine.

WHERE TO STAY IN NASHVILLE: Red Roof Inn – This is one of the few reasonably priced two-star hotels in the city, despite its somewhat out-of-the-way location. The Grand Ole Opry is only a short 13-minute drive away from this inexpensive restaurant, which offers free coffee, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor pool.

15. San Francisco

San Francisco is one of my favorite destinations because of its diverse population, high-tech, hipsters, and wide variety of food. It’s also near some amazing national parks, such as Muir Woods, where you can hike among enormous trees and get away from the city (Get Your Guide offers half-day guided excursions). This city is evolving quickly, and I always look forward to returning. You need at least four days to fully experience San Francisco because there is so much to do there. Not to be missed, the city is one of the cultural hubs of the United States.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN FRANCISCO: Green Tortoise Hostel is a San Francisco institution and one of the oldest in the city. It provides free dinners many times a week, free breakfast, and even a free sauna! Its large common area makes meeting new people simple, and the environment is lively and pleasant.

16. Miami

What’s not to love about Miami? Gorgeous people, great warm weather, white sand beaches, and Cuban cuisine! Miami is great for a fun-filled weekend in the sun, but I doubt I could live here.

WHERE TO STAY IN MIAMI: Generator Miami is a hostel conveniently located near the beach, featuring two restaurants, a bar, and a swimming pool. The mattresses are more comfy than those at the party hostels, and the building is enormous (it has eight stories).

17. San Diego

San Diego’s climate, which is consistently warm and sunny, contributes to the city’s perpetually cheerful populace, which is gregarious, extroverted, and fond of being outside, whether it be running, hiking, or beach days. Additionally, they always enjoy showing visitors their city.

In addition to the well-known Pacific Beach, the downtown Gaslamp neighborhood is brimming with hip seafood eateries, lively bars, and some incredibly transformative taco stands. San Diego is my favorite city.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO: ITH Adventure Hostel – This laid-back hostel is highly social and welcoming, and it focuses on sustainable travel (there are backyard hens and a vegetable garden). It’s tidy, the showers have good water pressure, and the beds are comfortable.

18. Lake Tahoe

Even though the California drought has tragically reduced the lake’s water level and the surrounding flora and fauna, Lake Tahoe is still stunning and remarkable. Encircled by little mountain villages, this is an excellent location for summertime hiking and boating, and wintertime skiing.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE TAHOE: Go camping! Bring a tent, or rent one, and spend a few nights enjoying the starry sky. You will not be let down.

19. Anywhere in Montana

Many articles have been written extolling Montana’s beauty, however, they are all inaccurate. It’s superior to anything words can say. With breathtaking mountains and hills stretching for miles, it’s the most breathtakingly beautiful state I’ve ever visited. The locals are kind, cool, and outdoorsy. Montana is my favorite state if I had to choose. I adore it so much.

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTANA: Treasure State Hostel, which is in the heart of Bozeman, is a peaceful, tidy motel with welcoming employees. It’s simple to hang out and meet new people because they host a variety of events, such as movie nights and pub crawls.

20. Washington D.C.

I adore the fact that the nation’s capital is a bustling, multicultural metropolis. With so many individuals from foreign embassies and humanitarian groups, it’s second only to New York City in terms of cuisine diversity. This place has a million different accents! Add in D.C., several parks, a riverbank for jogging or strolling, some historic government buildings and monuments, and the free Smithsonian museums. becomes one amazing location to go, unwind, dine, and drink! While you’re here, make sure to explore Capitol Hill!

WHERE TO STAY IN WASHINGTON: Highroad Hostel, housed in a historic Victorian home, is a hip hostel with pod-style bunks. There’s a fully functional kitchen, memory foam mattresses on the beds, and a fireplace in the common room.

21. Cape Cod

Since New Englanders go to the Cape for the summer, I spent a lot of summers there. Small coastal villages abound; Provincetown and Hyannis are the most well-known, but I also adore Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster. Visit the Cape if you’re searching for seafood, boardwalks, beaches, and the ideal family getaway!

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE COD: Cape Sands Inn – This three-star establishment is conveniently located on the West Yarmouth beach and has all the usual amenities (TV, coffee/tea, free Wi-Fi), free parking, and a soothing sauna and hot tub.

22. Boston

I may be biased because I was raised here, but I adore Boston and look forward to returning here. I love Boston (Go Red Sox!). It’s modest, easily navigable, historic (established in 1630), and home to a great and devoted population.

In addition to having some of the greatest Italian and seafood restaurants in the nation, it is home to a ton of attractions, including the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, the JFK Museum, the Boston Commons, and the Public Garden. For the greatest brunch in the city, make sure you eat at Zaftigs! It’s evil!

WHERE TO STAY IN BOSTON: Hello Boston – Almost everything in the city is only a short stroll from this roomy and well-kept hostel. They offer free Wi-Fi, female-only dorms, and several laid-back communal areas where you can meet other travelers.

23. Las Vegas

Oh, how I miss Vegas! Vegas has much more than just the casinos, pricey clubs, and hotels on the well-known Strip, even though many people are turned off by the bright lights and gambling. Red Rocks National Park offers amazing hiking, and the area is also home to a thriving tech community, an expanding art scene, Tony Hsieh’s Downtown Project, and a ton of events and concerts.

Step off the Strip and discover why people choose to call this place home. After all, the Strip is located in Paradise, NV, not Las Vegas.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAS VEGAS: Sin City Hostel – This sociable hostel, which is only a short stroll from the (renowned) Fremont Street, conducts a variety of activities, including bar crawls, pasta and wine nights, BBQs, casino nights, and more. It’s a fantastic location for meeting other tourists.

24. Portland

Portland, Oregon is a fantastic city. If there was a larger airport with better connections, I would relocate there. There’s a thriving food truck industry, stylish pubs and cocktail lounges, a craft beer sector that’s considered a religion by locals, serene parks with a serene Japanese garden, a lively art scene, and climbing in the neighboring mountains. This place even has an underground donut scene!

Portland is a fantastic city, especially in the summer when there are tons of festivals and events to choose from, including the Portland International Beerfest and the World Domination Summit, and the weather is ideal.

WHAT TO DO IN PORTLAND: HI Portland – Northwest – Named one of the world’s top hostels, this conveniently located HI hostel has complimentary breakfast, artisan beer made on site, a bonfire in the outdoor courtyard, frequent live music, and much more. Staying there is exciting, social, and energetic!

See this page about Portland for additional travel advice.

25. Seattle

In addition to having an interesting downtown, fresh seafood, excellent Asian cuisine, art museums, and a vibrant nightlife, it is also home to a small company called Starbucks. You can take an underground tour of the city’s ruins in Pioneer Square, which is a cool experience. Additionally, you’re directly on the sea, and if the weather permits, you may explore a few small islands by heading out onto Elliott Bay. Seattle is a great city. It’s techy, there’s always stuff to do, and people are chill there. What’s not to love about artisan beer and coffee, in addition?

WHERE TO STAY IN SEATTLE: Green Tortoise – This social hostel is conveniently located across from the well-known Pike Place Market and hosts a variety of activities that make meeting new people easy. They also provide complimentary breakfast, which is a unique benefit in the US!

Check out this comprehensive preparation guide for additional travel advice on Seattle!

26. Deadwood

The main street of Deadwood, South Dakota, a historic town, is covered in snow.
This town, which is hidden away in western South Dakota, was so well-known during the Old West era that HBO decided to base a series on it. It’s a very amazing place where you may have a taste of the old frontier days if a little cheesy and recreated. Additionally, it is well-situated close to Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

WHERE TO STAY IN DEADWOOD: One of the least expensive hotels in the area is the quirky Gold Country Inn. They offer free parking, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site mini-gambling hall all at their downtown location. While it’s not particularly elegant, it also won’t break the bank.

27. Kansas City

This city, which boasts a bustling downtown and some of the best barbecues in the world, was just amazing. In addition, there’s the informative and comprehensive Jazz Museum here, along with the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (yes, that’s the official name; no offense intended). Though that only makes me want to return, I wish I could have spent more time.

WHERE TO STAY IN KANSAS CITY: Home2 Suites Downtown – This three-star hotel in downtown KC is one of the more reasonably priced locations to stay in the city, with a fitness facility, pool, and a reasonable breakfast spread.

28. Louisville

Louisville, the largest city in Kentucky, is situated on the Ohio River. The amount of things to do here and how much I enjoyed it shocked me. It’s a great culinary city with lots of great restaurants, a thriving theater scene, a few museums and galleries, and an abundance of bourbon.

There’s a relaxed, artistic vibe about Louseiville. It feels nothing like a typical midwestern or southern metropolis, but rather more like Austin or Portland. It was once thought of as a fly-over city, and most people avoided it. Not right now.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE: Microtel Inn — This inexpensive hotel offers free breakfast, free parking, free Wi-Fi, and free breakfast, despite being 20 minutes from downtown. It’s a simple, yet comfortable, option.

29. Charleston

Another vibrant city with plenty of history, tasty food, entertaining nightlife, and all the necessary Southern charm is Charleston. For such a little city, it is gorgeous, the people are kind, and there is an extremely high concentration of top-notch dining establishments. (As one of the top cities in the nation for seafood, you’re going to enjoy it here if you love seafood.)

WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON: The laid-back NotSo Hostel, which is situated in a historic district, offers free Wi-Fi, coffee/tea, and oatmeal. Although the rooms are modest, the beds are comfortable.

30. Franklin

Franklin, a little hamlet south of Nashville, has a charming small-town atmosphere. It’s also the place where I discovered HC Clake, my new favorite bourbon. The city boasts a historic main street, a wealth of history (including a significant Civil War fight), and some incredibly tasty taverns and eateries. I was pleasantly surprised with the city as I hadn’t expected much. It’s the ideal place to spend two nights.

WHERE TO STAY IN FRANKLIN: The Harpeth Hotel, is an elegant establishment with a restaurant, bar, and terrace on the premises. Look for alternatives on Booking.com if you don’t want to spend a lot of money.

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