From coast to coast and from beaches to mountains, we suggest our 20 favorite places in the USA to inspire you to discover the country.
Welcome to the world of wanderlust, where every step leads you to a new adventure and each journey unravels an exciting chapter in your life.
As passionate travelers ourselves, we understand the thrill that comes with exploring uncharted territories and immersing oneself into diverse cultures. This is why we’ve put together this list of our personal favorite places around the United States.
We will take you on a virtual tour across some truly enchanting corners of this country, sharing insights about their main attractions along with what makes them unique and interesting – be it their historical significance or natural beauty or cultural vibrancy.
Travel meaningfully and cheap across the USA
Before we delve into our favorite places to visit in the US, let us suggest you a revolutionary way of travel: volunteering.
Volunteering in the US while you travel means that you can do a work exchange in which you participate in local projects by helping a few hours a day in exchange of accommodation and -most of times- food and other benefits like free activities.
From hostels in bustling cities to organic farms and holistic centers surrounded by nature, there are so many different opportunities out there looking for volunteers!
But volunteering it’s not just about saving money while traveling; it’s about immersing yourself into local culture, making meaningful connections, and having life-changing experiences.
In essence, being a volunteer is an exciting chance to live uniquely enriching experiences off-the-beaten-path where you can make a positive impact.
To join, you just need to subscribe to the Worldpackers Community for free and start saving your favorite volunteer positions, until you are ready to get verified in order to contact local hosts.
Our favorite places to visit in the US
In no particular order, here is our selection of 20 favorite places that inspire us to travel far and wide across the United States…
1. Yosemite National Park, California
Nestled within California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite is widely considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the US,
Famed for its awe-inspiring granite cliffs, towering sequoia trees, crystal-clear streams, and diverse wildlife – Yosemite offers an unparalleled experience to all who visit.
The park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails catering to various skill levels. For adrenaline junkies, there are challenging hikes like the one leading up to Half Dome or rock climbing adventures on El Capitan’s vertical face. But if a peaceful stroll amidst stunning landscapes is more your speed, then meandering paths such as those found in Tuolumne Meadows await you.
Check out all the volunteering opportunities in California, like this Nature Glamping Retreat in Wheatland.
And keep exploring the state with this article about California wilderness areas.
2. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park might be one of the smaller in the United States, but is packed with natural beauty.
The park’s most iconic feature is the Zion Canyon, carved over millions of years by the Virgin River. The emerald pools formed along this river offer serene spots perfect for picnics or simply basking in nature’s glory. For those seeking adrenaline-filled experiences, hiking up Angel’s Landing or through The Narrows are must-do activities that reward you with unforgettable views.
Beyond these well-known attractions, Zion also boasts an incredible diversity of wildlife including mule deer, golden eagles and even mountain lions! It’s not uncommon to spot these creatures while exploring the many trails crisscrossing the park.
Apart from its physical allurements, Zion holds cultural significance too. Ancient native tribes like Anasazi and Paiute once inhabited these lands leaving behind intriguing petroglyphs as silent testimonies to their existence here thousands of years ago.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Known as one of America’s most powerful spiritual centers, Sedona is famous for its vortexes – swirling centers of energy conducive to healing, meditation, and self-exploration. Hiking trails such as the Cathedral Rock Trail lead to them.
These naturally occurring phenomena make Sedona an ideal destination for those looking to connect deeply with themselves and nature.
The city certainly has a lot of things to do as well. There’s a thriving arts culture, with 23 art galleries, as well as a great food scene.
Sedona is on our list of 10 best offbeat places to visit in the USA and 33 amazing places to travel in the US.
If you want to spend some time discovering the region, there are many opportunities to volunteer in Arizona through Worldpackers, like this one to help with hiking trail building at a Buddhist retreat center in Bowie.
4. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is very proud of its health-centered culture, and there are numerous spa and wellness activities for visitors, from rooftop yoga to outdoor tubs with relaxing mountain views to exciting salt cave spas. This destination is the perfect place to nurture your body and mind!
Keeping with the wellness focus, the food scene in Asheville, affectionately referred to as “Foodtopia” by the locals, puts a heavy emphasis on farm to table dining, priding itself on serving delicious and innovative dishes made from the freshest of ingredients.
Here you’ll also find one of the highest rates of local breweries per capita in the United States, with 17 breweries for every 50,000 people, and many local wineries and vineyards available to tour.
And if all of that wasn’t enough, there are the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains themselves to enjoy.
Check out Worldpackers’ hosts in and near Asheville for what’s sure to be a fun, relaxing experience!
5. Mendocino, California
Mendocino is an underexplored coastal town in California offering dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.
It is not the beach town you are looking for if you want a fancy experience like in the South of California, but it is perfect if you love scenic views and hiking. Visit the iconic Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, or take a scenic drive along Highway 1 for stunning ocean views.
Live like a local in Mendocino by helping this family with simple house chores and kid projects.
6. Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach is another beach town from California to add to this list. It is located in the Orange County, and it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in this area.
This small city is surrounded by protected wilderness, so there is lots of nature to explore. There are plenty of hiking trails, hills and canyons inland, whereas the coast has lots of great surfing beaches, tide pools, and boardwalks. It has an amazing sea and it’s surrounded by pretty beach villas all around.
7. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is a historic, multicultural town that is one of the best offbeat places in the USA. Founded by Spanish explorers in 1565, is known for supposedly being the oldest city in the United States, but the area was inhabited by Native American tribes for several millennia before the Spanish ever set foot on the coast of Florida.
Explore Castillo de San Marcos, a centuries old fort with excellent views of both the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Take a “historical adventure tour” of the Spanish Quarter, a restored 18th century colonial village. And, of course, sip from Ponce de Leon’s legendary Fountain of Youth for the chance at being forever young.
But St. Augustine isn’t just for history buffs. You’ll also find distilleries, wineries and 42 miles of beaches to relax. For all these good reasons, is one of our personal favorite places in the US.
Check out the 13 best cheap beach vacations in the USA.
If you want to try a work exchange in St. Augustine, you can help at a local guesthouse. In exchange for a few hours of light morning housekeeping and cleaning, you get free stay and can enjoy the area after work.
8. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
This group of 21 islands nestled on Lake Superior’s southern shore offers an array of activities that will appeal to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
One of the main attractions here is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which boasts pristine beaches, lush forests, and historic lighthouses. You can explore these wonders through hiking trails or by kayaking along the coastline where you might spot some wildlife like bald eagles or black bears.
Besides its natural beauty, what makes Apostle Islands truly stand out are its mesmerizing sea caves. These naturally formed structures offer a surreal sight with their intricate formations created over thousands of years by wind and water erosion. During winter months, they transform into stunning ice caves that glisten under sunlight – an absolute must-see spectacle!
The area also has rich cultural history linked to Native American tribes such as Ojibwe people who have inhabited this land for centuries.
9. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky
Why Mammoth Cave is one of our favorite places in the USA? Reasons abound:
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the world’s longest known cave system that stretches over 400 miles. But it isn’t just about size; Mammoth Cave boasts a rich history and biodiversity that make it an unmissable destination for adventurers.
The park offers various tours catering to different fitness levels and interests. The Grand Avenue Tour takes you through vast chambers adorned with awe-inspiring formations like stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones, and gypsum flowers – each telling a tale millions of years old.
Beyond its subterranean wonders, Mammoth Cave National Park features more than 70 miles of surface trails for hiking amidst lush forests teeming with wildlife. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by sightings of over 200 species including owls, hawks and songbirds.
This park also plays host to multiple campgrounds, so you can have an unforgettable camping experience under starlit skies.
Volunteer on a family-run farm, or check out other work-exchange opportunities in Kentucky.
10. Hoh Rainforest, Washington
Located in Olympic National Park, Washington, this temperate rainforest stands as one of the largest protected rainforests in the Northern Hemisphere, offering an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts.
The Hoh Rainforest is characterized by its towering old-growth trees draped with mosses and ferns – a testament to the area’s high annual rainfall. The forest floor also bursts with life; mushrooms, lichens, insects, and small mammals thrive here creating an intricate ecosystem.
But there’s more than just flora and fauna to explore: You can hike along well-maintained trails such as the Hall of Mosses Trail or Spruce Nature Trail which take you through stunning landscapes showcasing giant Sitka spruces and bigleaf maples.
If you’re lucky enough during your visit – particularly if it falls between September to April –you might even catch sight of Roosevelt elk herds grazing peacefully amidst this verdant wonderland!
From hostels in Seattle to homestays in the countryside, there are many opportunities for volunteering in Washington State.
11. Taos, New Mexico
Another of our favorite places that are not so widely popular as a tourist destination in the US, is the town of Taos.
Enveloped by the high desert’s breathtaking beauty and rich cultural history, Taos is a gem to explore. This small town brims with an eclectic mix of Native American heritage, Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant art scenes, and outdoor adventures.
The Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over 1,000 years old, stands as one of its most iconic landmarks. It is still inhabited today by the Tiwa-speaking Native Americans who continue to uphold their ancestral traditions.
No visit would be complete without immersing oneself in nature. The nearby Rio Grande del Norte National Monument presents endless opportunities for hiking amidst volcanic cones or rafting down wild river rapids.
If you’re looking for something more serene yet equally stunning, head towards Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area where you can hike up New Mexico’s highest mountain or simply bask in its alpine scenery dotted with beautiful wildlife.
There are many volunteering opportunities in New Mexico, like this holistic center in Taos County!
12. Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, Arizona/Utah
Straddling the border of Arizona and Utah, this breathtaking wilderness area offers some of the most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes in all of North America.
The star attraction here is undoubtedly The Wave, on the slopes of the Coyote Buttes. This geological wonder has become famous for its undulating forms and vibrant colors. Formed by millions of years of wind erosion on sandstone layers, The Wave appears like a surreal sea frozen in time. Its fiery reds contrast beautifully against deep blue skies creating stunning visuals that are sure to leave you speechless.
While visiting The Wave requires winning a lottery due to limited daily permits issued to protect its delicate ecosystem, even if luck doesn’t favor you there are countless other wonders waiting to be discovered within these 11,2000 acres worth exploring such as Buckskin Gulch which holds title as longest slot canyon worldwide or White Pocket boasting strange rock formations reminiscent alien landscape.
13. Portland, Maine
Not to be confused with Portland in Oregon, the largest city in Maine is a gem that blends natural beauty with rich history and vibrant culture. It’s a haven for backpackers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist trails.
The Lighthouse Trail, in particular, stands out among its many attractions. With over 60 historic lighthouses dotting Maine’s coastline, lakes and rivers, this trail offers an unforgettable journey through time and nature. Your adventure begins at the iconic Portland Head Light – America’s oldest functioning lighthouse still standing proud since 1791! As you hike along craggy cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll find other enchanting beacons like West Quoddy Head Light which sits on America’s easternmost point.
No matter what season it is when you visit: spring blooms bring colorful wildflowers sprouting amidst mossy rocks, while autumn paints fiery hues across leaf-strewn paths; winter snows transform landscapes into enchanting wonderlands, whereas summer sunshine bathes everything in warm golden glow.
Live like a local in “The Pine Tree State” by volunteering in Maine.
14. West Pacific Road Trip
The West Coast of the United States is one the of the best places in the world to road trip.
Starting in the moody Washington State some of the highlights of the state are the Olympic Peninsula and the city of Seattle and ending in the sunny and wonderful state of California where the highlights include the majestic Mount Shasta and ocean vistas of San Diego. Don’t forget to detour to drive the spectacular Bixby Bridge, in Big Sur.
Campsites can be found everywhere on your way. This part of the United States is an amazing opportunity to jump out of your comfort zone and explore.
15. Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Hike
The Grand Canyon Rim to Rim Hike is one of the most popular hikes in the US. It’s an awe-inspiring trek traversing some of the US’ most picturesque sights, and can be completed within a day or two based on your physical condition.
The hike spans 24 miles and passes through three different ecosystems: desert, riparian, and alpine. Along the way, you’ll experience breathtaking panoramas from both rims of the canyon as well as hidden gems like Havasu Falls. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for this challenging but rewarding adventure.
16. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a stunning stretch of barrier islands that offers an exceptional travel experience for those seeking sun, sand, and surf. This coastal paradise is renowned for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and rich history.
You can spend your days soaking up the sun on the sandy shores or exploring Cape Hatteras National Seashore, where you can witness towering lighthouses and shipwreck diving sites. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunity to spot wild horses in Corolla or observe diverse bird species at Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
If you’re interested in history, don’t miss visiting Roanoke Island, the site of England’s first settlement in the “New World”.
Apart from natural beauty and historical landmarks, Outer Banks boasts a vibrant local culture with seafood festivals like Outer Banks Seafood Festival, live music events and art galleries featuring works by local artists.
If you feel like staying for a while exploring this region, there are positions for volunteering in North Carolina. This opportunity to help create a farm stay retreat is one fo them.
17. Burlington, Vermont
Situated on Lake Champlain’s shores with views of the Adirondacks, Burlington morphs into an idyllic winter wonderland each year. Try sledding down Battery Park Hill after enjoying hot cocoa downtown.
You’ll find diverse activities from ice fishing to kiteboarding on frozen lakes. Vermont is also famous for its maple syrup – don’t miss trying some during sugaring season in early spring.
18. Anchorage, Alaska
Talking about favorite places in the USA, we can’t forget to make a special mention to the mighty state of Alaska.
Anchorage might not be the prittiest city in the country, but serves as an excellent base for your Alaskan adventure. With its breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, Anchorage offers countless opportunities to explore the outdoors.
The Chugach Mountains bordering the east side of Anchorage are perfect for hiking and skiing enthusiasts. The mountain range is home to some 300 miles of trails where you can spot moose or even bears. If water activities pique your interest more than land adventures do, take a trip down Tony Knowles Coastal Trail which winds along Cook Inlet offering stunning views.
A visit to this northern wonder wouldn’t be complete without witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular shows – the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) if you are at the right time of the year -August to April-. You could join Northern Lights tours that will guide you to locations with minimal light pollution for optimal viewing conditions.
Is Alaska expensive? Find out how to cut costs.
Live an unforgettable experience by volunteering in Alaska. Places like this organic farm in Manatusta Valley or this hostel in Anchorage are looking for enthusiasts!
19. The Na Pali Coast, Hawai’i
Arguably one of the most impressive views in the Hawaiian Islands, the Na Pali Coast is mind-blowing. With rippling, multicolored cliffs framed by the rich blue ocean, it is one of those spots that will have you in awe of Mother Nature.
You can hike one of the many trails in the area, with the Kalalau Trail being the hardest. You can also book a boat tour and see the cliffs from the water.
There are plenty of work-exchange opportunities in Hawai’i open for volunteers who want to spend a wonderful time in “The Aloha State”.
20. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
We end our tour across the US looking for our favorite places to suggest you, at a magical location that will definitely leave you with lasting memories.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, on Hawaii’s Big Island, encompasses a tropical rainforest and the two volcanoes that sit within it. Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and Mauna Loa, stretching 13,678 feet above sea level, provide visitors with the chance to witness and learn about volcanic activity.
If your timing is lucky, you can spot glowing lava in various parts of the park. Regardless of when you visit, the otherworldly landscape of the lava fields and dramatic coastline views create a beautiful scene that you’ll never forget!
Plan your trip to Hawai’i with these articles:
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