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66 USA bucket list travel ideas

Is it a dream of yours to do more USA travel?

If so, I’ve put together this huuuge USA bucket list travel guide. It includes all the US states that we visited during our three-month road trip of America and the best things to do in each US State.

We traveled from New York to Key West in Florida, across the South, and then up the West Coast to Vancouver, BC.

All that to say that this USA bucket list covers a lot of ground! Of course, there are plenty of states we didn’t get around to visiting this time.

I could easily extend this to more than 100 places to visit in the USA,  but this is a pretty good place to start for some ideas of fun things to do in the USA.

USA Bucket List Travel Guide

Our three-month USA road trip took us to the following states and here are some of the best things to do in each one of them.

Have I missed your absolute favorite thing to do off my North American bucket list (maybe all of the things that only happen in Ohio?)? Let me know in the comments below!

New York State

When it comes to New York, most people only think of Manhattan. And while visiting New York City is definitely a highlight and one of the places to visit in the USA that most people want to tick off, there are a few other things you shouldn’t miss either!

niagara falls sunrise in winter

1. See Niagara Falls at sunrise

Our first stop in the US was Niagara Falls since that’s where we crossed the border! It was a freezing cold morning in early March, but the sunrise was spectacular.

This was the second time I visited Niagara Falls (the first being in summer) and it can’t fail to amaze you!

While I think the Canadians get the best side of Niagara Falls, you can see the waterfall from both countries so if you’re in New York State then make sure to head up here.

2. Visit Buffalo

We stopped in Buffalo after our trip to Niagara, mostly for some lunch! After a walk around the city (where we found some actual buffalo grazing), we headed to Anchor Bar which claims to be the place that created buffalo wings as we know them today. They were delicious!

24 hours in New York City top of the rock

3. Climb (well take the elevator) to The Top of the Rock

The Empire State Building might be the first place that pops into your head if you’re looking to get an iconic view of New York City from up high.

But personally, I think going to the Top of the Rock in the Rockefeller Building is the place to go for the best view of New York City.

You can see Central Park and The Empire State Building too which are both must-see US landmarks.

Even if you’re limited on time, you can see a lot of New York in 48 hours.

usa bucket list travel ideas new york

4. Take in the buzz at Times Square

How can you visit New York City (especially if it’s your first time) and not visit Times Square? Sure, it’s touristy and insanely busy but it’s got to be done.

5. Take a wine tour in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State

If you’re spending more time in Upstate New York, then how about spending a weekend in the Finger Lakes Region and going on some tours of the vineyards up there?

The finger lakes are a beautiful area of New York and there’s some really great wine to be found up there too!

pittsburgh incline

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is one of the original 13 colonies of the United States and is known for many things including its forests and big cities such as Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

6. See the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania

Did you know that Pennsylvania has its own (albeit much greener) version of the Grand Canyon in Arizona?

Just south of Ansonia, the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon is best viewed from the Leonard Harrison State Park overlooks.

7. Ride the incline to the top of Mount Washington

Enjoy a panorama of Pittsburgh and the 3 rivers in the city by riding the Duquesne Incline.

The 140-year-old Incline takes you to an observation deck with the most beautiful views of the city and it’s an absolute must in Pittsburgh. This is also one of the best places to visit as part of a fall road trip!

8. Eat Philly cheesesteak sandwiches

Don’t pass by Philadelphia without tucking into a Philly cheesesteak for lunch. It’s just one of those American things you have to try!

jersey state boardwalk bucket list usa

New Jersey

The most densely populated state in the entire country, New Jersey was known to me simply for Jersey Shore (so not for the best reasons).

It’s also known as the “Diner Capital” of America with 525 diners.

But there are also beautiful beach resorts and great food. Add it to your list of USA places to visit now.

9. Visit Atlantic City

Out of season, this place is almost like a ghost town (well it was when we visited, but in the summer this place is heaving.

Whenever you visit, take a stroll down the Atlantic City boardwalk which is the longest boardwalk in the world!

10. Go kayaking in the Hudson

In the summer months kayaking on the Hudson is completely free and offers a great afternoon of fun.

The Hoboken Cove Boathouse offers kayaking and paddleboarding from the end of May to September.

rehoboth boardwalk usa travelbucket list delaware

Delaware

When thinking of places to visit in America, Delaware is unlikely to be at the top. While small, the first state as it’s known still has plenty going for it. If you’re a NASCAR fan I’m sure you know all about it, but if not then check out these few things to do there.

11. Watch a sunset from The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park

It may be the only state without any sort of National Park units, but that doesn’t mean it’s not got beautiful areas.

The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park is unique as it’s here that Delaware Bay is separated from the Atlantic Ocean and curves in such a way that the sun sets directly over the water even though you’re on the east coast.

It’s the perfect place to watch a sunset in Delaware.

12. Take a walk on the Rehoboth boardwalk

Rehoboth is Delaware’s most visited city and is known for its warm sunshine, sandy beaches, and ocean breeze. Walk the boardwalk with some tasty snacks and take in the views.

wild ponies maryland bucket list usa travel ideas

Maryland

Sometimes called “Little America” because Maryland has all types of terrain from mountains to sand dunes, Maryland is also known for fishing.

The state produces the most blue crabs in the US and Marylanders are known for dousing their crabs in copious amounts of Old Bay or Chesapeake Bay seasonings.

13. Eat a dozen steamed crabs

Given what you learned above, you’ve got to try the crabs in Maryland. Maryland-style crabs mean they’re steamed and served with some ice-cold beer.

Oh, and one other thing, you need to eat a dozen of them to do it properly!

14. Paddle the Everglades of the North

They call Blackwater the “Everglades of the North” and here you can find all sorts of species of birds. It’s not just birds though, you may even see dolphins as you paddle along these waters. All of this makes it one of the special places to go in the US.

15. Find the wild ponies of Assateague

Assateague State Park is a magical place where wild ponies roam. This wild area is perfect for camping, swimming, fishing, and exploring.

Whether you’re short on time and just take one of the scenic drives, or have longer and camp, make sure Assateague is on your list! It’s one of my favorite places to see on the East Coast!

blue ridge parkway virginia bucket list

Virginia

Virginia is known as “the birthplace of a nation” as Jamestown was the first English settlement in the U.S. There’s also a whole load of scenic driving in this state.

16. Explore Great Falls Park in Virginia

Great Falls Park in Northern Virginia is just 15 miles away from Washington D.C. The Potomac River churns with waterfalls and rapid. The River Trail offers spectacular views from the rocky cliffs at the edge of the river and along Mather Gorge.

17. Drive Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. The scenic drive covers 469 miles and has some of the most impressive mountain views in the world.

You can drive the Blue Ridge Parkway north out of the Roanoke Valley and into Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive or south toward the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. Whichever part you drive it’s a must-see destination in the USA.

18. Chesapeake Bay – Tunnel Bridge

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is a 17.6-mile bridge-tunnel crossing at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, the Hampton Roads harbor, and nearby mouths of the James and Elizabeth Rivers in the American state of Virginia.

It’s definitely an unusual type of road to drive and can be scary at times since there are minimum speeds and huge trucks charging up close behind you!

North Carolina

Famous for the First Flight (and the motto on the state’s license plates), North Carolina was actually one of my favorite states along the east coast of our road trip. There’s the beautiful Outer Banks region of Great Smokey Mountains National Park too.

ocracoke american east coast road trip

19. Visit the Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is known are a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that span 100 miles of coastline.

As you might expect, there are loads of beaches here, there are wild horses, and plenty of lighthouses too which all have their own style.

Take a couple of days to drive down the Outer Banks and explore the islands and lighthouses. Ocracoke was one of our favorite stops.

20. Go to the Wright Brothers Memorial

Stop off in Kitty Hawk and visit the Wright Brothers Memorial. This was under construction in 2017 when we were doing our USA road trip, but should all be finished now!

It’s on the land that the Wright Brothers took flight in their aircraft and it’s amazing to learn about how planes came to be.

jockeys ridge state park american east coast road trip

21. Jockeys Ridge State Park

I have such fond memories of Jockeys Ridge State Park. Perhaps because it was the moment, we felt a little bit of warmth (after a month or so of freezing temperatures), or just because it was so beautiful.

Either way, it was one of my favorite places in America to visit.

We parked up and scrambled over the sand dunes to watch a beautiful sunset and see the ocean rolling in and out. Definitely stop here!

22. Great Smokey Mountains National Park

The forest along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America’s most visited national park.

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

South Carolina

South Carolina is the nation’s leading peach producer east of the Mississippi River and has some beautiful cities you need to explore!

south of the border south carolina american east coast road trip

23. South of the Border

First things first, if you’re coming from the north, or traveling north, you’ve got to stop off at the South of the Border.

This crazy roadside attraction is huge and is full of gift shops, firework shops, restaurants, and massive statues too. It’s a fun place to stop off while on a road trip to the eastern USA.

24. Visit Charleston

With a rich history, Charleston has to be one of the most culturally interesting and beautiful cities in the US to visit. It doesn’t hurt that there’s delicious Southern cuisine to be found here either.

Georgia

Known as the peach state, Georgia is also the country’s top producer of pecans and peanuts. Home to the city of Atlanta, Georgia is an interesting state to visit, here are some of my top things to do in Georgia.

driftwood beach jekyll island american east coast road trip

25. Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is an island just off the Georgia mainland nowadays it’s famous for its sea turtles and beautiful beaches.

Home to Driftwood Beach (it’s not hard to see why it’s called that), Jekyll Island also has a great sea turtle rescue center.

As a visitor you can learn about how they help rehabilitate the turtles and, if you time it right, watch the turtles be fed and find out more about them.

savannah, georgia

26. Savannah

Definitely, the prettiest city we visited during our road trip, Savannah, GA, is well worth a visit. It’s full of history and culture and the buildings here are beautiful.

Savannah surprised me as it’s relatively small but packed with fun things to do in Savannah.

27. Atlanta

Atlanta is the most well-known city in the state of Georgia and there are plenty of things to do here. You could visit the World of Coca-Cola (which was invented here), see the 1996 Summer Olympics site, and visit the birthplace of Martin Luther King at the Museum of Civil and Human Rights.

Florida

Florida is famous for its amusement parks, oranges, great weather, and the Kennedy Space Centre. There are so many fun things to do in America’s state of Florida.

Here are a few highlights of a trip to Florida.

rocket launch at kennedy space centre

28. Watch a rocket launch at the Kennedy Space Centre

We timed a lot of our drive down the east coast of the USA to make sure we could be at the Kennedy Space Centre in time to watch a SpaceX launch and we managed to make it!

Watching a rocket launch was such a cool experience and even more so that it was the first time a rocket was re-used.

There aren’t many places in the world you can experience this and so a rocket launch is definitely one of the top things to see in the USA.

miami to florida keys road trip guide (6 of 6)

29. Drive the Florida Keys to Key West

Of all the places to see in America, the drive down to Key West from Miami is one of the most beautiful! You’re surrounded by ocean on either side and there are so many places to stop in the Florida Keys along the way.

Catch a sunset in Key West and paddle in the ocean – you’ll love it here.

driving everglades national park florida

30. The Everglades National Park

Our morning spent exploring the boardwalks in the Everglades was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip.

We didn’t do the organized airboat tours (they’re pretty bad environmentally and ethically) and went our own way.

You can see our self-guided Everglades tour here.

best things to do in miami

31. Miami

Miami’s beaches are world-famous and for good reason. But it’s not all about the beaches. Visit Coconut Grove and Little Havana or go out partying if that’s more your scene. Miami should definitely be on your Florida itinerary!

alabama gulf shore

Alabama

We didn’t spend long in Alabama, we more or less drove through on the way to New Orleans. But if you’re planning to have a little while longer here are a couple of things to do in Alabama.

32. Mobile, Alabama

Did you know that Mardi Gras began in Mobile, Alabama? The original capital of French Louisiana, Mobile began Mardi Gras celebrations in 1703 and offers a great child-friendly version of the celebration. The whole city dresses up in purple, green, and gold Mardi Gras colors and the parades are fantastic.

33. The Gulf Shores

Primitive camping (wild camping) is allowed along Alabama’s Gulf Shores at Petit Bois and the National Park Service-owned portion of Cat Island.

It’s a great way to relax and listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean. During the day you can also try out stand-up paddleboarding on the Gulf.

mississippi river

Mississippi

Home to many famous people, Mississippi is nicknamed the “Magnolia State” because of its beautiful magnolia trees. Jackson, the state’s capital and largest city is known as the “Crossroads of the South” and Mississippi residents are called “Mudcats,” after the catfish found in the state’s streams.

Here are a few things to do in the state of Mississippi.

34. Drive the Mississippi Great River Road

Hit the road and experience Mississippi River attractions, small towns, and historic properties as you road trip across Mississippi on one of the best scenic drives in America.

The Great River Road runs the length of the United States following the winding Mississippi River and where better to follow the river than in the state that gives it its name?

35. See Elvis Presley’s Birthplace and the Elvis Presley Museum

The town of Tupelo is where Elvis Presley was born and you can visit his childhood home, view murals, a statue, and a story wall featuring memories shared by his childhood friends.

The Elvis Presley Museum has even more memorabilia on this famous singer!

Louisiana

One of the must-go places in the USA is Louisiana. Louisiana is known for its many festivals such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Voodoo Experience, and its most famous, Mardi Gras. It’s also famous for its delicious Southern comfort food!

new orleans louisiana

36. French Quarter in New Orleans

New Orleans’s French Quarter is the historic heart of New Orleans. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, colorful buildings, jazz clubs, and parties along Bourbon Street and Cajun eateries.

There are also some quieter streets that lead to the French Market, with gourmet food and local crafts, and Jackson Square where street performers entertain in front of the soaring St. Louis Cathedral.

It’s the perfect place to wander around.

If you’re there near Mardi Gras make sure to stick around for the celebrations as they’re some of the best things to see in the USA.

37. Food tour in New Orleans

The city of New Orleans is home to some delicious food and there are so many foods to try in New Orleans.

The best way to do it is to take a food tour so that you can put in the hard work of working out where to go on a local. Go hungry!

Texas

Texas is known as the “Lone Star State” and is famous for BBQ, rodeos, hot temperatures, and live music. It’s a fun state and it’s true what they say; everything is bigger in Texas – add it to the list of places you must visit in the US now.

austin texas for first time visitors

38. Austin

This fun city is the homeplace of Whole Foods, has beautiful hiking trails along the river, and is one of the few cities in the south of the US I could picture myself living in. Check out my list of things to do for first time visitors to Austin, as well as these delicious Austin food trucks!

39. Eat BBQ

Sorry vegetarians and vegans, Texas is the place for BBQ food. We tried several places throughout Texas and had a great time at each one.

Our favourite was Jackson Street BBQ just across from the Houston Astros stadium. Chowing down here is one of the many cool things to do in the US.

enchanted rock park texas

40. Go hiking in the desert

Enchanted Rock offers a great introduction to hiking in a desert landscape.

This huge rock seems to appear out of nowhere and once you get to the top you get some pretty impressive views!

what to do in marfa texas

41. Marfa

Miles and miles away from anywhere, the artsy town of Marfa was made famous due to celebrity visits. Their visits here put Marfa on the map and many American bucket lists too.

There are some fun shops here, lots of art and the mysterious Marfa lights. Just what are they?!

self guided breaking bad tour

New Mexico

Famous for the best Mexican food, the balloon fiesta, the birth of the nuclear bomb, wine, and Breaking Bad, New Mexico is a great addition to a USA road trip bucket list.

42. Albuquerque

Albuquerque came on my radar thanks to Breaking Bad and when we were driving through New Mexico we just knew we had to stop there.

We made our own tour of Breaking Bad film locations and had great fun exploring the city that way.

If you’re in the city in October, you should definitely check out the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta where hundreds of hot air balloons take to the skies.

things to do in el paso

43. Explore the towns of Santa Fe and El Paso

I loved the town of Santa Fe in New Mexico. The buildings were different from anything we saw during our road trip.

We also liked exploring El Paso taking a scenic drive and visiting the Border Police Museum which was actually one of the best museums I’ve visited.

It sounds strange but it’s free and has so much interesting information!

vanlife that adventurer

44. White Sands National Park

Designated a national park at the end of 2019, White Sands was recommended to us by a man in a Walmart Car Park.

We’d never heard of it before but were so glad he told us about it.

White Sands is famous for its white gypsum sand which doesn’t get hot under the sun.

You can explore the sand dunes and learn about desert life in the visitor center.

Now that it’s a national park I’m sure it’ll only get busier so add it to your must-see places in America and try and go soon!

colorado usa bucket list travel

Colorado

Colorado is well known for its mountains and forests, if you’re a nature lover you’ll love it here. As well as checking out some of the fun things to do in Denver, be sure to take a look at these bucket-list-worthy items in the state; it’s full of so many fun things to do in the US.

45. Photograph the Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park is famous for its dunes which can rise to a height of 750ft off the San Louis Valley floor. It’s in one of the most remote areas of Colorado and is a beautiful place to photograph. If you visit, go 23 miles north to Joyful Journey Hot Spring Spa and relax after hiking the sand dunes.

46. Go skiing in Colorado

Colorado is America’s unofficial winter sports capital and the undisputed number-one destination in the US for skiing and snowboarding. In Colorado, you’ll find longer ski seasons and better snow than anywhere else in the US.

There’s something for all ski abilities in Colorado which is home to some of the biggest and most well-known resorts in the world such as; Vail, Aspen, Telluride, and Breckenridge.

If it’s not winter when you visit, it’s still worth heading up to these resorts for hiking and mountain biking or just taking in the views from a gondola.

Utah

Utah is one of the states I would return to in a heartbeat. It’s so beautiful and we only saw the southwestern corner of it!

There are loads of National Parks and they’re all so different despite being so close to each other!

If you’re an adventure lover then Utah is a must-visit in the USA for you.

bryce canyon utah

47. First the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks

Utah’s Might 5 are the following 5 National Parks: Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, and Capitol Reef. All 5 have different landscapes and they’re all beautiful.

You can visit Arches and Canyonlands in one day if you’re pressed for time, and the others can be added in within a week’s road trip in Utah. All these National Parks in Utah as worthy of being must-visit places in the USA.

Check out my guides to these Utah National Parks below:

48. Go to Salt Lake City

The most populous city in Utah, Salt Lake City is laid back like Seattle but, unlike the Pacific Northwest, it’s sunny!

There’s sunshine, mountains, culture, and entertainment making it a great city to visit.

lower antelope canyon tours

Arizona

The Grand Canyon State! Arizona is famous for this huge canyon and the desert but also for the city of Phoenix and the town of Scottsdale which is great for adventurers.

Here are some places you can’t miss in Arizona.

guide to the grand canyon national park arizona

49. The Grand Canyon

One of the must-see places in the USA is The Grand Canyon! The South Rim is less touristy than the west entrance, and the north even less so but it’s harder to get to.

Check out my guide to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim to find the best views and the best Grand Canyon hikes, such as the South Kaibab trail.

lower antelope canyon tours

50. Antelope Canyon

Chances are you’ve seen this place all over Instagram so it’s probably near the top of your “what to see in the USA” list. This magical slot canyon in Arizona is incredible to see.

Whilst it’s super busy (you wouldn’t believe the crowds), I still think it’s worth visiting Antelope Canyon.

horseshoe bend america

51. Horseshoe Bend

Close to Antelope Canyon is Horseshoe Bend which is also super busy. Go early to check this out with fewer crowds (but there’ll still be plenty) and gaze in awe at this beautiful spot.

52. Havasu Falls

If you’ve managed to get permits to hike to Havasu Falls, lucky you! This waterfall is almost an unbelievable color and well worth the hike to get to it.

Hiking here is one of the top things to do in the USA for sure! I haven’t been here yet but it’s on my United States bucket list.

53. Hang with the giant Cacti in Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park in Tuscon is a great place to be amazed by desert landscapes filled with huge cacti: Saguaro.

Walk the trails, bike them, and learn more about the wildlife and fauna you’ll find here.

Nevada

Nevada is the gambling and entertainment capital of the United States thanks to the city of Las Vegas. It also produces the most gold in the US and has the richest known silver deposit too.

54. Las Vegas

In some ways the excess you’ll find in Las Vegas is awful, but this strange city won me over. It’s one of those things to see in America that you just can’t miss.

best budget hotels in vegas

I was expecting to hate it but found myself enjoying our couple of days here and just accepting it for what it is.

Las Vegas is expensive but you can still find free things to do in Las Vegas too.

55. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is an incredible feat of engineering and one of my top things to do in America if you’re looking for something a bit different between Vegas and California.

You can take tours inside the dam which I’d recommend doing to learn about the building process and how it works.

California

The huge state of California is known for many things. You may hear it referred to as the Land of Milk and Honey, The El Dorado State, The Golden State, and The Grape State.

There are more than 17 million gallons of wine each year and there are so many national parks to discover.

There are mountains, beaches, forests and desserts and the state is worthy of its own 3-month road trip! Here are some of the highlights.

golden gate bridge san francisco

56. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

The city of San Francisco grew on me and it’s hard not to admire the beauty of the Golden Gate Bridge.

There are quite a few fun and free things to do in San Francisco if you’re traveling on a budget. And, of course, checking out the Golden Gate Bridge is on that list. If you want even better views of the bridge, check out this guide to where to get the best photos of the Golden Gate Bridge.

It will definitely make it to your What to see in America list if it hadn’t already.

redwood national park california (1 of 7)

57. Redwood National Park

On many peoples’ bucket list places to visit in the US are the redwoods.

In northern California, the Redwood National Park is home to some giant trees but they’re pretty far from any major city.

If you’re not traveling that far north you can see redwoods throughout the state and at the John Muir Memorial not far north of San Francisco too.

However, visiting Redwood National Park is well worth it if you’re heading that way as the trees here are insane! Going for a hike in the redwood forest is a must!

death valley national park

58. Death Valley

STILL wondering what to do in America? I loved our quick visit to Death Valley National Park. The scenery here is beautiful and the park was so quiet when we visited!

There are so many things to do in Death Valley including these awesome Death Valley hikes.

One of my favorite recommendations when it comes to places to see in the USA.

mammoth lakes hot springs

59. Mammoth Lakes hot springs

There’s a lot of geothermal activity going on near Mammoth Springs and that means that there are a lot of hot springs to be found in the wild.

There are also some areas that are too hot to soak in, but you can visit them and look from the sidelines.

I hadn’t heard of this area before we stumbled across it but now it’s one of my best things to see in America.

yosemite national park half dome

60. Yosemite National Park

A visit to California isn’t complete without seeing Yosemite National Park. I’d even go as far as to say it’s a must do in America.

This is one of the most popular National Parks in the US for a reason; the valley is incredibly beautiful and there are so many things to do in Yosemite National Park.

Make time for a hike or two to get away from the worst of the crowds and truly appreciate the beauty. One of my favorite Yosemite hikes was the Upper Yosemite Falls trail which gets you spectacular views!

usa west coast road trip

61. Big Sur

Driving along HWY1 and Big Sur is absolutely beautiful. I think this drive, along with the Florida Keys, is one of the best things to do in the USA.

The coastline is dramatic, and the color of the ocean is stunning; without a doubt one of the most beautiful places to see in the United States.

portland oregon usa travel bucket list

Oregon

The picturesque state of Oregon is famous for its many microbreweries and outdoor, chilled-out west coast lifestyle. There are mountains, volcanoes, beaches, and more. Here are a few of our highlights from our trip to Oregon.

62. Portland

The fun city of Portland is ideal for a couple of days of exploring.

Some of my picks for what to do in Portland include indulging in the great coffee and food scene, the wonderfully large Powell’s Bookstore is somewhere I could spend days, there are great views of Mt Hood and then there are all the independent stores to explore too.

oregon coast sunset

63. The beautiful coastline

Oregon’s Coastline is stunning and one of the best things to do in America.

We had the best time driving along it and stopping off to see the natural bridges, beaches such as Cannon Beach, and the tide pools and whirlpools too.

I highly recommend taking the coastal road over the highway if you’re in the area!

Washington

Washington, just over the border from where I live now, is another state in the Pacific Northwest. And, like Oregon, it’s also one of my favorites mostly due to how beautiful the natural scenery is.

There’s Mt Baker, the stunning Cascade Mountain Range, the cool city of Seattle, and even the small town of Bellingham is great!

mt rainier national park

64. Mt Rainier

Mt Rainier National Park is home to (you guessed it) Mount Rainier! Mt Rainier was one of my favorite National Parks for the way the light lit up all the mountains.

Plus, it was the first time we saw a bear!

If you’re looking for awesome backpacking trips and hikes in Mt Rainier National Park then you’re in. luck. There are some awesome day hikes as well as epic hiking trails such as the Wonderland Trail.

north cascades national park diablo lake

65. The North Cascades National Park

When it comes to what to do in the USA, hiking and getting outside is always top of my list.

The North Cascades Mountain Range is where the PCT begins to come to an end (or a start) if you’re beginning from the north. It’s just a few hours away from Seattle and is also home to Mt Baker ski resort and wilderness area.

There are vibrant blue lakes, SO many mountain peaks, and plenty of wildlife. The best way to see it all is to do some North Cascades hikes.

And, if you want to extend your trip, check out where to stay for North Cascades National Park too.

best things to do in seattle

66. Seattle

Besides Vancouver, Seattle is one of my favorite cities.

It’s a must for an American road trip as so many things started here. It’s the home of Microsoft, Amazon, and Starbucks started here.

Among the things to do in Seattle include the awesome Pike Place Market, the gruesome gum wall, and so many cool places to explore in this city.

What would you add to a ‘must see USA’ for your bucket list USA?

Last Updated on February 22, 2024 by Hannah

Leave a comment

  1. Emilee says:

    Arizona has the best sky for stars I bet the Grand Canyon will give a beautiful back drop to them. Also you can hike it if you want or white water raft it. Summit the 14ers in Colorado for info http://www.14ers.com. make sure you have Bbq in Florida it’s all about peebles bbq in auburndale. Disney is fun universal studios has Harry Potter. Consider adding Arkansas ozark national park to your trip and have a steak in fort smith Arkansas at does eat place. Spring training games are good for cheap baseball if you’re on a budget. Lake Huron or superior are the best Great Lakes.

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