Best Places to Visit in the US
Looking for the top places to visit in the US? From coastal charm to wild frontiers, discover America’s most unforgettable destinations with Collette.
November 26, 2025
8 minute read
The United States is a land of incredible diversity; every region offers its own distinct rhythms, flavours, and sense of wonder. You can journey from jazz-filled avenues in New Orleans to the stillness of an Alaskan glacier, or from the coastal elegance of Charleston to the surreal vastness of the Grand Canyon — all within the same country.
With so many unique destinations to discover, it’s impossible to name the bestplaces to visit. That said, these ten destinations are a great place to start, each one offering a glimpse into what makes exploring America so special.
Read on to learn about 10 of our favourite destinations in the United States.
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Quick Answer: What Are the Top Places to Visit in the US?
Some of the best places to visit in the US include Mackinac Island, National Parks (take your pick!), New Orleans, Charleston, Kauai, Woodstock, Anchorage, and Washington, D.C. Each offers its own blend of iconic sights, regional flavours, and cultural depth.
10 US Travel Destinations to Visit
1. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Stepping onto Mackinac Island feels like stepping back in time. With no motorized vehicles allowed, horse-drawn carriages, bicycles, and your own two feet are your main ways to get around. Victorian architecture and fudge shops line the streets, and sweeping views of Lake Huron frame the island’s quiet natural beauty. Nestled between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, this charming destination offers a nostalgic escape unlike anywhere else in America.
What to Do:
Stroll the Mackinac Island State Park trails for views of Arch Rock and the Straits of Mackinac.
Visit Fort Mackinac, a historic military outpost overlooking the water.
Savour a classic afternoon tea at the Grand Hotel, an American landmark.
Recommended Collette Tour: Mackinac Island
2. The Grand Canyon, Arizona
Few places on Earth inspire awe quite like the Grand Canyon (one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World!). Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its vast red-and-gold cliffs tell the story of time itself — as well as the people who call this canyon home. Standing at the rim, with nature’s power and artistry laid out before you, is both humbling and exhilarating.
What to Do:
Gaze across the South Rim at sunrise for unforgettable light and colour.
Hike a section of a canyon trail to experience the canyon’s layers up-close and experience its scale from within.
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone is America’s first national park — and still one of its wildest. Geysers erupt, bison roam, and steam swirls from bubbling hot springs. Every corner of this massive landscape feels alive with natural drama. Beyond the geothermal wonders, there’s a sense of frontier freedom that captures the essence of the American West. (Note: Whilst Yellowstone is mostly in Wyoming, some parts extend into Montana and Idaho.)
What to Do:
Watch Old Faithful erupt, then explore lesser-known geyser basins.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, like bison, elk, bears, and sometimes wolves.
Take in the sweeping views at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone lookout.
Insider Tip: Early morning is the best time for wildlife sightings. Bring binoculars and patience!
Recommended Collette Tour: Montana: Exploring Big Sky Country
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans isn’t just a city; it’s a mood, a melody, a cultural crossroads. Here, French, African, and Caribbean influences fuse into one of America’s richest cultural tapestries. From jazz echoing through the French Quarter to Creole flavours on every corner, this music city offers up a sensory feast.
What to Do:
Stroll down Frenchmen Street for live music, or treat yourself to an evening at a jazz club.
Taste gumbo or beignets at Café du Monde and the Court of Two Sisters.
Visit Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral, heart of the French Quarter.
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston offers up southern charm at every turn, from its cobblestone streets and pastel row houses to its oak-lined parks and waterfront views. The city’s history runs deep, but its energy feels fresh, with vibrant dining, culture, and community spirit blending seamlessly with centuries-old heritage. In spring, jasmine scents the air as horse-drawn carriages pass beneath mossy oaks, capturing the essence of Charleston’s timeless appeal.
What to Do:
Wander through Charleston’s historic centre, exploring quaint areas only accessible by foot.
Take a harbour cruise to Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Set off on a horse-and-carriage tour of the city.
Recommended Collette Tour: Southern Charm
Can’t decide which US destination is right for you? Watch our Eastern and Western US virtual events to find your perfect match.
6. Redwood National Park, California
Visiting California’s redwoods feels like standing among giants. These ancient trees — some more than 2,000 years old and soaring over 91 metres tall — inspire a rare sense of humility and peace. Beyond the trees, you’ll find wild coastline, misty trails, and a stillness that embodies the Pacific Northwest.
What to Do:
Drive the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway through the park’s towering groves.
Walk the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail for an easy, otherworldly introduction to the forest.
Visit the General Sherman Tree, a massive sequoia considered to be the largest tree in the world by volume.
7. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai, the northernmost of Hawaii’s main islands, is often called the “Garden Isle” — and for good reason. Its emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and secluded beaches make it one of the most breathtaking places in the Pacific. Yet beyond its scenery lies an unmistakable spirit of calm. Here, nature sets the rhythm: waves roll gently onto golden sand, rainbows follow passing showers, and time seems to stretch.
What to Do:
Cruise to the Fern Grotto, a stunning natural amphitheater blanketed in ferns.
Visit Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
Experience a hula performance, a deep-rooted tradition that shares the stories and spirit of Hawaii.
8. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is the kind of New England village that feels lifted from a postcard. Surrounded by rolling hills and covered bridges, it’s especially enchanting in autumn, when the trees blaze red and gold. Beyond its natural beauty, Woodstock offers a strong sense of community, local craftsmanship, and timeless charm.
What to Do:
Stroll through the Village Green and browse local boutiques.
Explore nearby Quechee Gorge, “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.”
Insider Tip: Autumn is peak season, so book early — or visit in late spring when the countryside is lush, quiet, and dotted with wildflowers.
9. Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage sits at the edge of the wilderness — a place where moose wander nearby trails and mountains rise straight from the sea. It’s both a gateway to adventure and a thriving city rich with culture and history. For travellers seeking untamed beauty and dramatic landscapes, Anchorage is the perfect launchpad.
What to Do:
Visit the Anchorage Museum for insight into Alaska Native culture.
Set out on a glacier cruise of Prince William Sound.
Dine on fresh, local seafood, like king crab, halibut, and wild salmon.
Insider Tip: Even in summer, temperatures can dip, so layer up and stay flexible for weather-driven schedule changes.
10. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital offers far more than monuments and museums, though those alone could fill days of exploration. Washington, D.C. hums with history, global influence, and local energy. Cherry blossoms, world-class art, and lively neighborhoods like Georgetown and Capitol Hill make it one of America’s most dynamic cities.
What to Do:
Explore the Smithsonian Museums, from Air and Space to African American History and Culture.
Stroll the National Mall by twilight, when monuments glow softly against the night sky.
Tour the capital’s iconic memorials and monuments.
Recommended Collette Tour: American Heritage
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the US
What is the most visited destination in the US?
According to recent travel data, New York City, Las Vegas, and Washington, D.C. rank among the most visited cities in the United States.
What’s the best way to explore the US?
Because of its size and variety, one of the best ways to experience the U.S. is through guided travel that connects major highlights with insider access and local expertise.
Do I need a visa to visit the US?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Always check your government’s latest travel guidelines for the most accurate information.
What’s the best way to get an authentic experience in the US?
Seek out local interactions: cooking classes in the South, live jazz in New Orleans, or lei-making lessons in Hawaii. Joining small-group excursions or guided tours helps connect you with people who live and breathe the culture daily.
Are guided tours in the US good for solo travellers or first-timers?
Absolutely. Collette’s tours provide a built-in community, structure, and safety net for solo travellers. They also make complex itineraries — like multi-state routes or national park circuits — effortless, whilst providing strategic free time for independent exploration.
Final Thoughts: Planning Your Trip to the US
From historic cities to untamed wilderness, the United States rewards curiosity at every turn. With Collette, you don’t just visit these places — you experience them, guided by experts who bring each story, flavour, and landscape to life. Whether you’re standing beneath towering Redwoods or soaking in the autumn charms of Woodstock, each moment invites you to see America from a new perspective.
Explore our expertly guided US tours.
