Top Places to Travel in the U.S.A.

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Thousands of travelers weighed in on which vacation spots can be considered the best in the USA. Based on those user votes and expert analysis of factors like the variety of attractions, accommodations and dining options, U.S. News came up with the best places to visit in the USA. These stateside getaways range from beaches (like Maui and San Diego) to national parks (like Yellowstone and Yosemite) to big cities (like New York and San Francisco). Use this list to get ideas for your clients next vacation if they DO NOT want to travel to EUROPE this summer.

 

Maui - Maui is not nearly as large as the Big Island, nor is it as small as Lanai, as bustling as Oahu or as quiet as Kauai. For many Hawaii vacationers, Maui is just right — offering a taste of just about everything the Aloha State has to offer, from impressive wildlife to intriguing history and culture.

 

Yellowstone - With dramatic peaks and pristine lakes, Yellowstone is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Multicolored pools swirl around hot springs; verdant forests weave past expansive meadows; and volatile geysers launch streams of steaming water toward the sky.

 

Grand Canyon - To experience some of the most inspiring views America has to offer, plan a trip to the Grand Canyon. Whether you choose to hike the Bright Angel Trails or raft the Colorado River, you're sure to encounter plenty of picturesque vistas.

 

San Francisco - San Francisco's culture has been affected by diverse ethnic groups and many social movements. The best way to perceive the City by the Bay's character is to explore each individual neighborhood. From the Mission to the Castro, visitors appreciate each enclave's offerings.

 

Yosemite - In Yosemite, you can check out famous landmarks like Half Dome or get some exercise hiking the John Muir Trail. Come in spring, summer or fall to avoid winter's wet weather conditions. And if you're not one for camping, you can make this park a day trip from San Francisco, Sacramento or Lake Tahoe.

 

Washington D.C. - The nation's capital has a lot going for it. Iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument allow you to sightsee for days. Just make sure to save some energy for an evening out — D.C. boasts a lively restaurant and bar scene.

 

New York City - Museum-strolling, theater-going, bar-hopping — the sheer number of things to do in the Big Apple puts most of its U.S. peers to shame. When you need a respite from the city's busy street life and soaring skyscrapers, retreat to scenic Central Park.

 

Honolulu - Oahu - Oahu features a nice balance of urban and beach environments. And with pleasant weather year-round, there really is no bad time to visit. Waikiki Beach promises to please, but be forewarned: There's a good chance you will be greeted by a barrage of tourists.

 

San Diego - San Diego appeals to many different kinds of vacationers. While the beach is the marquee attraction, the city also boasts a variety of outdoor activities and a vibrant downtown dining scene. Meanwhile, the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld offer good times for all ages

 

Orlando - WDW - A trip to Disney World is a rite of passage for little ones. And over the years, the "Imagineers" of Disney have gone to great lengths to enchant adults, too. More than ever before, Disney World offers a type of escapism you can't find anywhere else.\

 

Charleston - Beautiful architecture, relaxing beaches and plenty of Southern charm are the defining elements of Charleston. Exploring historic sites and nearby museums is a great way to spend your afternoons. Plus, Charleston also offers mouthwatering Southern cuisine.

 

Jackson Hole - With its proximity to Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, Jackson Hole appeals to outdoorsy types. Whether you're skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort or visiting the National Elk Refuge, you'll be in awe of what this destination has to offer.

 

Chicago - Chicago is known for its architecture — so much so that numerous companies offer tours devoted to the Windy City's buildings. And at the foot of Chi-town's iconic skyline lay a host of world-class museums, standout restaurants and eclectic neighborhoods

 

Cape Cod - While the Cape's shoreline entices many visitors, the main draw here is the sense of tradition and laid-back atmosphere. Cape Cod hosts a loyal following of Northeasterners during the summer season; this can make house rentals and hotel rooms expensive, so book early.

 

New Orleans - Does any city in America have a culture more unique than the Big Easy? A melting pot of influences ranging from Caribbean to European, New Orleans has a distinct personality. This vibrant city welcomes visitors with all the gumbo, jazz and partying they can handle.

 

Las Vegas - Some of the best dining, shopping and nightlife in the world can be found at America's playground. Though it may not be ideal for everyone, Sin City is a great getaway if you're looking to escape the real world — however innocently or as excessively as you choose.

 

Anchorage - The Anchorage Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center provide a perfect introduction to "The Last Frontier." And you can break in your hiking boots along the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and in Kincaid Park. Just save some time for exploring the city's shops and eateries.

 

Sedona - Majestic red landscapes, bizarre rock formations and stunning sunsets make Sedona unique. Outdoorsy types adore the rock climbing, off-roading and hiking opportunities while leisure-seekers love the boutique resorts, serene spas and tranquil ambiance.

 

Seattle - Seattle's laid-back attitude and diverse neighborhoods more than make up for its consistently cloudy weather. Plus, it's home to some of the country's best coffee and a thriving arts scene, plenty of history, culture and — when the weather permits — some exciting outdoor activities. Surrounded by water (and resting between Puget Sound and Lake Washington), the city's favorite outdoor pursuits include kayaking, hiking and camping.

 

Portland - The City of Roses exudes a relaxed, down-to-earth style unlike any other American city. Some locals might say their mellow attitude derives from Portland's delicious craft brews, but others credit the green spaces, like Washington Park.