The United States boasts a diverse tapestry of vacation destinations, each offering its own unique blend of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty. From the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas to the bustling streets of New York City, and from the southern charm of Houston to the cultural richness of Chicago, travelers are spoilt for choice. In this guide, we will explore the top 10 U.S. vacation destinations, providing a glimpse into what makes each place special and why it deserves a spot on your travel itinerary. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, these destinations have something extraordinary to offer.
The top 10 US vacation destinations overall
Las Vegas, Nevada
As soon as you’ve driven past the ‘Welcome to fabulous Las Vegas’ sign, you know you’re somewhere special, and there’s nowhere else truly like this city. Signaling the start of Vegas’ famous strip, discover the extravagant, more-is-more hotels that are so committed to their theme, you’ll feel like you’re in a foreign country. Casinos, pool parties, and concerts are what Vegas is so well-known for, and given its location in the center of the desert, it boasts the warmest weather in all of the US, at 95F on average, in the summer.
New York City, New York
Often referred to as the city that never sleeps, there’s no shortage of things to do, with 1,469 tours available in the city, alongside 577 landmarks, and 367 museums. The Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park are three key sights that are on many visitors’ bucket lists when visiting the big apple for the first time, but whatever you’re looking for, NYC has it covered.
Houston, Texas
For some southern charm, there’s no better city than Houston. So, dig out your cowboy boots (or buy some while you’re there!), and head to one of the honky-tonks for a night of good ol’ fashioned two-stepping. Of course, Houston offers so much more than cowboy culture. Home to NASA’s Space Center, it’s a must-visit if it’s your first time in the city, and it’s also home to the JPMorgan Chase Tower, which, at just over 1,000 feet high, is the tallest building in Texas.
Chicago, Illinois
With 318 landmarks, 151 museums (the third highest on our list), and a huge 6,683 restaurants (also the third highest), Chicago is a great all-rounder of a city if you’re looking for culture, cuisine, and charm. The Bean might be basic, but it’s a must-see the first time you stay in the city, but you should also check out Garfield Park Conservatory, Art on theMART, which is the world’s largest digital art projection, before dipping your toes into the water by kayaking on Chicago River.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
An alternative to the US’ larger cities, Oklahoma City boasts some of the hottest weather in the states, at an average of 93F over the summer months, and the seventh cheapest hotel costs, at an average of $86 per night. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum should be at the top of your list, before heading to Oklahoma History Center, to find out more about the history of the state.
Miami, Florida
If you can’t decide between a city or a beach break, then Miami’s the perfect destination! South Beach and Miami Beach both offer miles of golden sand, and are lined with dozens of beach bars to choose from, as well as lots of high rise hotels offering some of the best pool parties in the states. Miami’s international airport is only 7.5 miles away from the center, so you can really maximize your stay here if you’re on limited time, and it also has the sixth highest number of tours available, at 555.
San Antonio, Texas
With joint top temperatures of 95F in the summer, and a short distance of just 9.5 miles from the airport, San Antonio is a great city to visit if you’re looking for a summer vacation. Head to the charming River Walk, which spans five miles and hosts a range of shops, restaurants, hotels, and museums. If you don’t fancy walking the full five miles, you can catch a river taxi!
Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles offers another perfect combination of city and beach break, with the city of LA boasting the most number of restaurants in all of the states, at 10,887. With 165 museums, it sits only behind New York in terms of numbers; and with average summer temperatures sitting at 81F, you’ll get to enjoy the heat, it’s not as blistering as it can be in other places.
Orlando, Florida
The only place to go for thrill-seekers, families, and big kids alike, if you love nothing more than being thrown around and upside down on a rollercoaster, then Orlando is the destination of choice for you. Home to Walt Disney World (which has four parks in total, including Magic Kingdom and Epcot), Universal Orlando (which has Universal Studios, and Islands of Adventure), and SeaWorld Parks, there’s no shortage of fun in Orlando.
Augusta, Georgia
Rounding off our top 10 list of US vacation cities is Georgia’s Augusta, which has the cheapest hotel rates, at just $54 a night. Home to eight museums, start with the Augusta Museum of History, before heading to Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home, which is where the former American president grew up. If you’re visiting in the summer, then you must spend at least one afternoon by the Riverwalk, where you can enjoy a picnic or sit in the shade under one of the trees, as you watch the world go by. Finally, with Augusta perhaps most well-known for its golfing scene, it’d be a shame not to go putting at one of the many clubs. Forest Hills Golf Club is one of the most well-known, and also features a restaurant and a driving range, so you can make a whole day of it there.
In conclusion, the United States is a treasure trove of vacation destinations, each with its own distinct allure. Whether you prefer the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, the cultural immersion of New York City, the southern hospitality of Houston, or the culinary delights of Chicago, there’s a destination that suits your taste and travel preferences. From the sunny beaches of Miami to the historical charm of Augusta, these top 10 U.S. vacation spots beckon travelers to explore, experience, and create lasting memories. So, pack your bags, embark on your adventure, and let these incredible destinations redefine your concept of an unforgettable vacation.