From coast to coast, the U.S.A. is home to quite a lot of natural beauty. Still, some states beat out others when it comes to providing visitors with the most stunning landscapes and scenery. A group of experts studied every state in the U.S.

They evaluated each one on a number of different relevant factors having to do with natural beauty, including the number of beaches, large natural lakes, mountains, national parks, and waterfalls in order to determine the top ten. From the Pacific Northwest to the Mid-Atlantic and everything in between, these US states are the best in terms of “the most natural beauty.” Without further ado, here are the most naturally beautiful states in the USA.  

The Most Naturally Beautiful States In The USA

10. New York

The State of New York, located in the Northeastern United States, scrapes into the official list of the top 10 most naturally beautiful states. It covers an area of 54,556 square miles and is the 27th largest state by area.  New York scored 6.12 out of 10.  

It was praised for its 350 beaches, 940+ waterfalls, 3,600+ mountains, and 7,600 large, lovely natural lakes. New York also includes a number of different state parks and a pair of major forest preserves. Founded in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the US. It is also possibly the most famous in the state. There’s also Adirondack Park, established in 1892. It is almost the size of the entire state of Vermont and is therefore the official largest state park in the nation.  

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North Carolina

North Carolina scores 6.26. It’s situated in the Southeastern United States and became the 12th state in 1789. North Carolina is the 28th largest state in the country covering an area of 53,819 square miles. This state was praised for its 241 beaches and 2,700 mountains.  

It also made the list because of 59 large natural lakes and 885 waterfalls. Let’s not forget that this state is also home to the Outer Banks and the famous Great Smoky Mountains. A partial although significant list of other noteworthy natural highlights includes Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades, Chimney Rock, Hanging Rock, Jockey’s Ridge, Lake Mattamuskeet, Linville Caverns, Looking Glass Rock, Mt. Mitchell, Pilot Mountain, Stone Mountain, Uwharrie National Forest, and Whitewater Falls.  

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Colorado

Colorado, in the Western United States’ Mountain West subregion, Colorado garnered a 6.36. It became a state in 1876. Stretching across 104,094 it includes the majority of the Southern Rocky Mountains, the northeastern section of the Colorado Plateau, and the Great Plains’ western edge.

Here you will discover some of the world’s most scenic landscapes. The state has no beaches because it is landlocked. Still, it has a total of almost 4,000 mountains and waterfalls combined.  

It also has four national parks including the popular Rocky Mountain National Park which spans the well-known Continental Divide. Other highlights include Hanging Lake, Maroon Bells, “Pah gosah” Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs, Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the Cave of the Winds in Manitou Springs, and Royal Gorge in Cañon City.  

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Wyoming

Also known as “The Cowboy State”, Wyoming, like Colorado, is located in the Western United States’ Mountain West subregion. It covers an area of 97,913 square miles and was officially designated the 44th state in the US in 1890. Wyoming earned a score of 6.6 for its 2,471 named mountains and 4,000 lovely large natural lakes.  

Many travelers come to this state to explore the famous Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Of course, there are numerous other naturally beautiful places to see here. Other highlights here include Ayres Natural Bridge, the Bighorn Mountains, the film-famous Devils Tower National Monument, the seemingly oddly named Killpecker Sand Dunes, the mighty North Platte River, the Red Desert, Shoshone Cavern, South Pass, and, of course, the Thermopolis Hot Springs. 

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Montana

The state of Montana, also found in the Western United States’ Mountain West subregion, slots in at number six on the list with a score of 6.87. It became the 41st state in 1889 and, with a total area of 147,040 square miles, it is the fourth-largest state. Interestingly, it is the eighth-least populous state as well.

To the north, it is bordered by Canada. Montana scores plenty of points for its 3,340+ mountains, such as the Beartooth Mountains, and its 3,223 large natural lakes. As regular readers may recall, Flathead Lake is one of the most popular here.

This state is also favored for its 480+ waterfalls. In fact, Morell Falls is a particular favorite. Other highlights include the American Prairie Reserve, Bighorn Canyon, Glacier National Park, Grinnell Glacier, The Medicine Rocks, the Lewis and Clark Caverns, and The Badlands of Makoshika State Park.  

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Hawaii

The Top Five Most Naturally Beautiful States In The USA

How could America’s 50th state, admitted into the union in 1959, not make it into the top five? After all, the Aloha State includes an especially attractive 10,931 square acres just 2,000 miles from the mainland in the pretty Pacific Ocean. Indeed, this unique place is the only archipelago state and birthplace of your rovin’ writer, right?

Its natural beauty earned it a score of 6.97. It was rated highly for its 385 beautiful beaches, 543 wondrous waterfalls, and 1,137 mountains. This tropical locale also features five lovely large natural lakes, and a pair of national parks, including the popular Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Oh, and let’s not forget Waimea Canyon, the dormant volcano crater Haleakala, the active volcanoes Mauna Loa and Kilauea, and Diamond Head as well! 

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Oregon

The number four most naturally beautiful state takes us back to the mainland. Oregon scored 7.79 for its natural beauty. The state of Oregon is located in the Western United States’ Pacific Northwest region. It became the 33rd state in 1859.  

Indeed, with an area of 98,381 square miles, this state has scenery to suit anyone’s personal preferences. It features 91 beaches (including Cannon Beach), 1,616 waterfalls (such as Elowah Falls, Multnomah Falls, and Toketee Falls), 1,400 large natural lakes (Crater Lake and Lost Lake, most notably), and more than 3,700 named mountains. Other naturally beautiful highlights in this state include the Alvord Desert, the Painted Hills, the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, the Silver Falls State Park, and Smith Rock.  

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Alaska

The 49th state, Alaska, was granted statehood in 1959. It is located in the northwest extremity of North America. With a total area of 663,268 square miles, Alaska is the largest state. It covers a total area larger than that of the next three biggest states, Texas, California, and Montana together.

Alaska scored a 7.89 State Beauty Score. Known to some as “America’s Last Frontier”, the state is noted to be the home of the most “ultras” in the country. (An ultra, for those not in the know, is a massive mountain with an elevation of at least 4,921 feet.) Alaska has 64 of them, including Denali. Alaska also features almost 3,200 large natural lakes including Lake Clark and eight national parks including Kenai Fjords and Glacier Bay. 

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California

Also known as the Golden State, California remains one of the most naturally beautiful states. It earns its 8.64 State Beauty Score. Recognized as the 31st state in 1850, it encompasses roughly 163,696 square miles and is the third-largest U.S. state. 

Partisan politics aside, the natural beauty here is undeniable. It is the home of the most named mountains in the US. Its 8,008 named peaks make up just under 11 percent of the nation’s total.

California also boasts over 1,000 waterfalls such as Fossil, Darwin, and Whiskeytown Falls, 430+ beaches including Glass and Laguna Beach, 280 state parks, and nine national parks including Joshua Tree and Sequoia. Do you need more evidence? Check out Artists Palette, Inspiration Point, Bear Gulch and Crystal Caves, and the Big Sur Coastline.  

Washington

The State of Washington, found in the Pacific Northwest has been the 42 state since 1889. With a total area of 71,362 square acres, it is the 18th largest state. The beautiful Evergreen State took the top slot with a state beauty score of 9.29.

Washington includes 8,000 lakes, more than 3,160 named mountains, over 3,130 waterfalls, almost 1,400 beaches, and three national parks. This state offers travelers gorgeous scenery whether it be cloud-breaking mountains, or sandy, calm coasts. A partial list of popular places here includes the Ape Caves, the Columbia River Gorge, Dry Falls, The Enchantments, the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park, the Goat Rocks Wilderness, the Hoh Rainforest, Lake Chelan, the active stratovolcano, Mount Rainier, infamous Mount Saint Helens, North Cascades National Park, Palouse Falls, and Snoqualmie Falls.

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Summer slowly turns to fall. The beauty of that new season is highlighted by cooler temperatures and the leaves changing colors. Indeed, so many people look forward to seeing the verdant green trees become tinted with orange, red, and yellow.

Yes, this colorful transformation occurs every autumn and yet, for nature lovers, it never gets old—especially when there always seems to be new places to see all the fantastic fall foliage. For readers looking for different views beyond the local neighborhood, there are plenty of superb scenic spots across the US. In order to assist you in detailing your calendar of colors, here are the best national parks for fall foliage and when to go. 

The Best National Parks For Fall Foliage And When To Go

1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

If you like Virginia, the Shenandoah National Park spans an area of nearly 80 thousand acres including part of the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains. If you’re going to stick to your car, the main park road is the popular 105-mile-long Skyline Drive. You can see much of the mountainous ridgeline there.

Expansive Shenandoah National Park features more than 100 miles of countryside. And as fall approaches, the foliage across the land turns sharp shades of orange, red, and yellow. Sources differ as to the best time to check out the fall foliage.  

Some say you can see changes in the colors as early as September. Other sources note that the leaves at the higher elevations do not even begin to change until early October. By the middle of October, the numerous colors have made their way down the hills and into the verdant valleys.

In late October the hilltops go brown. Luckily, this park has a special “fall color webcam” that allows people to watch the leaves change color weekly during the peak of the season. That can help you plan your visit too.

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina, And Tennessee

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park includes 522,419 acres in the states of Tennessee and North Carolina. It is thus named because the property straddles the Great Smoky Mountains’ ridgeline, a section of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a part of the Appalachian Mountains. The best time to see the fall foliage here is from the middle of October into early November.

Veteran visitors say that you will take in the very best views of the 4,000+ miles of fall foliage here at the mid and lower-level elevations. It is here that the leaves of more than 100 species of trees, including scarlet oak, sugar maple, and sweetgum trees, reach their pretty peak. Witness as the green changes to orange, red, yellow, and even purple.

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Yosemite National Park, California

The Golden State’s Yosemite National Park is nigh-famous for such waterfalls as Bridalveil, Nevada, and Vernal. Ah, but it spans an area of 759,620 acres so there’s a lot more to see here than waterfalls. Indeed, in 2016 the park set an official visitation record, with more than five million visitors. Just so you know, a number of them came here to enjoy the fall foliage.

The best time to see all the colors is during the peak season which is in the middle of October. For it is then that such trees as Pacific dogwoods and big-leaf maples subtly begin to take on orange and yellow tints. Be sure to check on the park’s website though before you visit because the park began to require reservations to tour the park during peak periods back in 2020.  

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Olympic National Park, Washington

This popular park includes 922,650 acres. It contains four different areas. They are the alpine areas, the forests of the east side, the Pacific coastline, and the west side’s rainforest.

Fans of fall foliage say that by the middle of October the trees here are usually coated with the usual moss and, more importantly, covered with a multi-colored mix of orange, yellow, and red leaves. They also note that the process starts in the middle of September at the higher elevations along the Pacific coastline.   

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Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Regular readers may already know that the popular adjacent to the city of the same name in central Garland County is famous for its hot springs and is a great place to go camping and hiking as well. What may not be as well-known is this 5,550-acre hotspot is one of the best national parks for fall foliage too.

To help you make your plans, it is important to know that the leaves in the northern part of the state change color by early October. Anywhere else in the state, including the central region where you’ll find this particular park, they change between the end of October into November. So plan your next visit accordingly.  

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Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

You will find this national park deep in the heart of Jackson. This park encompasses an area of 310,000 acres. It offers visitors some stunning mountain landscapes and a lovely lakefront view too.  

Leaf lovers should visit sometime between early September through the middle of October. The park’s elevation influences when the colors change. Mind you, the weather here also significantly impacts the foliage.  

The temperatures tend to drop sooner, and this spurs the change of colors in the foliage. Indeed, when it rains too heavily or the temperatures drop too low, the colors are less vibrant or are knocked off the trees too soon. Generally, the trees thrive in ample sunlight and mild temperatures. Under ideal conditions, entire groves change simultaneously. You will see various shades of gold, orange, red, and yellow.

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Congaree National Park, South Carolina

You could paddle a boat around Cedar Creek in the fall or visit South Carolina’s contribution to the best national parks for fall foliage. This national park spans a space of almost 26, 693 acres. It can be found 18 miles southeast of Columbia, the state capital. 

This park actually preserves the biggest swathe of official “old growth bottomland hardwood forest” still remaining in the US. The trees growing in its lush floodplain forest are reported to be some of eastern America’s tallest too. They form what is known as one of the world’s “highest temperate deciduous forest canopies” on the planet. The best time to see the golden yellow tints here is from the end of October ‘til early November.

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Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Established in 1971, this national park is roughly 60 miles in length and as narrow as six miles in width. It features 241,904 acres of desert landscape. Although it is open year-round, most tourists come here from May through September. Luckily, the leaves here do not begin to change to a golden orange until sometime in late September. The transformation comes to an end around Halloween. Hardcore foliage fans say the best time to do some leaf peeping here is in early October.

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

This 32,572-acre park is located along the Cuyahoga River between Cleveland and Akron. Here the best time to leaf peep is during October’s third week. Once the temperatures fall and daylight decreases, the frost covers the leaves and, as winter approaches, the fall foliage decreases significantly.

Those in the know suggest hiking to Brandywine Falls via the Brandywine Gorge Trail. The best place to photograph the foliage here is in the late afternoon. Do you need more? Hike the Ledges Trails and check out the views overlooking the valley. Other exceptional options include Indigo Lake, the Oak Hill Trail, the Octagon Shelter access road, and Pine Hollow.

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Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is situated on the border between the USA and Canada. It covers an area of over one million acres. There are over 1,000 different species of healthy plants here so you know this has to be one of the best national parks for fall foliage. Indeed, there is more than one peak fall foliage period here in this 1500+-square mile park.  

Here there are two “falls” per year. Two groups of trees change color at two different times. The lower elevation aspen and cottonwood trees, often found along the river, turn yellow and orange-gold in the middle of September. In the middle of October, the Tamarack or western larch trees turn to gold before dropping their needles.     

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Wrangell-St. Elias National Park And Preserve, Alaska

Yes, it’s true. Even the coldest places in the US can experience changes in the foliage. This park and preserve nestled in south-central Alaska near Copper Center were founded in 1980.  

This state park and preserve include an expansive 13,175,799+ acres. In fact, it is actually larger than nine states in the US. It is open all year, with most of the various facilities being open from May to September.  

The best time to see the leaves turn color here is from late August to early September. Feeling energetic? You can also go camping, hiking, hunting, kayaking, mountain biking, mountain climbing, and trapping here too. Just be sure to get all the correct permits and paperwork ahead of time! 

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Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, And Idaho

This national park is so large it stretches across three states: Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. It has an area of more than 3,500 square miles. It is also the country’s oldest national park and even inspired Yogi Bear’s famous Jellystone Park. 

Yellowstone is famous for being the home of the nigh-iconic geyser Old Faithful, and the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring. Ah, but even though it does not have as many trees as other national parks, the numerous shrubs and even the grassland takes on a gorgeous golden hue yearly. Indeed, if you wish to witness this occurrence, your best bet is to visit from the final week of September through the first week of October. 

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Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Famous Rocky Mountain National Park is in the north-central portion of the state in the Rocky Mountains’ Front Range. More specifically, this scenic park is located between the towns of Grandt Lake and Este Park. It encompasses 265,461 acres.

If you have come to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage at a high altitude, this is a great place to do it. Here you will discover more than 415 square miles of shrubs and aspen trees that slowly turn golden yellow, orange, scarlet, and brown prior to the first snowfall.

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Acadia National Park, Maine

The Acadia National Park is located mainly on popular Mount Desert Island. The park is actually a unique blend of seaside villages, parkland, and private property. This national park has quite a lot to offer visitors due in part to the fact that it includes both the mountains and the sea. 

You will also find beautiful beaches, campgrounds, and 100-plus miles of popular hiking trails. Fall aficionados should visit the first half of October. The change of colorful contrast of the hardwoods’ leaves with the dark, lush evergreens and the blue of the sea is striking.  

Drive your car from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center along the 27-mile loop road and stop at some of the overlooks and viewpoints there. Get a closer look by hiking the park’s historic rustic carriage roads.  

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Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

About 80 miles south of Seattle, is the snow-capped dormant volcano known as Mount Rainier. The corresponding park includes 236,381 acres and features forests, lava fields, waterfalls, and even glaciers. The leaves here begin to change in September.

A great place to see the multi-colored trees, shrubs, and plants is Reflection Lakes on Stevens Canyon Road. On a clear day, the reflecting colors are positively vibrant. If you’re feeling athletic, hike the Skyline Loop Trail. It is a challenging trail that runs for over five miles, but it is also a great way to see such other popular natural highlights such as Tatoosh Peaks, Mount Hood, and Mount Adams as well.

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Are any of you ladies still feeling the impact of recent events? Have you missed “Girls’ Night Out”? If you’re in the US and are looking to once more enjoy a weekend gals’ getaway or vixens’ vacation, then keep reading. We have compiled several ideas for you. Thus, without further ado, here are the best destinations for a girls’ weekend in the US.

Best Destinations For A Girls’ Weekend In The US

1. The Florida Keys, Florida

The popular Florida Keys and Key West are reported to be perfect getaway spots for girlfriends. It’s a favorite travel destination because it has something for everyone. In fact, even a road trip to the Florida Keys can be great fun.

Veteran visitors can confirm that when you’re there you feel like you’re “a million miles away” from the US. It has an incredible Caribbean feel. Oh, and let’s not forget that the Florida Keys are just a short drive from Miami, or a brief direct flight right into Key West.  

There are no more restrictions. The beaches are wide open, as are the restaurants and bars. You can even stay on a boat!    

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Palm Springs, California

Some travel writers say desert travel is the new thing now. Visitors like knowing they’re going somewhere that is always warm, rain-free, and promotes relaxing poolside with a cocktail in your hand. Perhaps that’s why the desert resort city Palm Springs is a regular hot spot now. While it may be considered a retirement location, it is also a well-known winter snowbird destination. If you’re looking for upscale accommodations, book rooms at the popular Parker Palm Springs or just rent an entire house.

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Joshua Tree, California

The trendy desert escape Joshua Tree is nestled in the Coachella Valley. It’s less than half an hour out of popular Palm Springs. If you and your friends are athletic sorts, you can go hiking in the popular national park of the same name.  

You can explore Joshua Tree Village, relax by the pool and soak up some sun, or even cruise into nearby Palm Springs. Joshua Tree may be ruggedly natural, but it offers some beautiful, unique accommodations. You can stay at SkyHouse Joshua Tree. Rent the entire place, three bedrooms, and two baths, which can accommodate up to six people.

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Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston was founded in the 1600s. It’s famous for its architecture, Southern hospitality, and burgeoning food scene. Highlights here include Folly Beach, Fort Sumter (where the infamous Civil War actually began), Charleston Harbor and Waterfront Park, and Rainbow Row.  

There’s also the memorable Isle of Palms. Don’t forget to dine at the highly-praised restaurant, FIG, either. If you would prefer a hotel instead of an airbnb, consider the Belmond, the Zero George, or The Hotel Bennett which may or may not offer discounts to lady travel bloggers and their attractive friends. If you want a remote weekend getaway, consider Kiawah Island.

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Napa Valley, California

You’ll find nothing to (ahem) whine about in California’s colorful grapevine-covered hills known as Napa Valley. This wine region is famous around the world. But to be fair, it offers visitors more than winery gardens and a taste of the grape.  

The Napa Valley includes five different towns that all offer travelers something special, be it boutique shopping, hiking trails, hot springs, or world-class fine dining. Feeling athletic? Rent bicycles and go explore all of the lovely local backroads.  

Taste the wine at such places as Artesa, Castello di Amarosa, Del Dotto, or Duckhorn. The best time to visit is during harvest season (the late summer or early fall.) Unsure about where to stay? Consider Alcobas Napa Valley, Auberge Du Soleil, or Villagio.  

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Austin, Texas

Reportedly Texas’ coolest city, Austin is also the “Live Music Capital of the World.” This is a great place for a girls’ weekend if you enjoy award-winning cuisine, a college-influenced nightlife, and live concerts. If you go there during the warmer months, you can check out Zilker Park. 

It has a world-class botanical garden, the beautiful Barton Springs Pool, and Lady Bird Lake where you can go kayaking or canoeing. Don’t forget the popular 6th Street entertainment district full of restaurants and bars. Girls who’ve gone wild recommend staying at the boutique hotel known as the South Congress Hotel found in the surprisingly chic South Congress district. If you’re booking accommodations for a bachelorette party, you might also want to consider an airbnb.

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Lake Tahoe, California, And Nevada

Lake Tahoe, which straddles the border between Nevada and California, is a great place to be in the summer or the winter. It’s famous for both its ski resorts and its beautiful beaches. Active ladies may enjoy snowboarding, snowmobiling, and skiing. Lake Tahoe also offers both a thriving nightlife and a bit of peace and quiet depending on where you stay.

The California side is less about alcohol-fueled parties at such spots as Zephyr Cove, and more about outdoor activities and communing with nature. You can take a cruise on Emerald Bay, go mountain biking, or even zip-lining. Some travel bloggers suggest staying at the lovely lakeside Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe. Each room includes its own fireplace and a private terrace too.

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San Diego, California

Some say that San Diego can be a regular “heaven on earth” for a girls’ weekend. It’s certainly a great place for a fun weekend at the beach. If you want to avoid the tourists, try Imperial Beach.  

If you and your gal pals are quite confident in your overall appearance, then spend some time at Black’s Beach. It’s the only nude beach in San Diego. Don’t worry if you have a rare cloudy day, don’t fret.

You can tour the famous USS Midway Aircraft Carrier. It’s actually the top tourist attraction in the city. Spend a day at Balboa Park where you can ride the carousel, go bike riding, or even enjoy a Shakespearean play. Cross the bridge to Coronado too!

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Miami, Florida

Miami remains a favorite fun US destination for a girls’ weekend or bachelorette party. It is praised for its assortment of beautiful beaches, retro-chic resorts, outdoor dining, and awesome open-air activities. Miami maintains a colorful, art-deco appearance and vibe all its own.  

The South Beach neighborhood is the place to be if your group prefers action over tranquility. It’s east of the city and comes complete with its own rockin’ restaurants, bustling bars, stimulating spas, noteworthy nightclubs, and recommended resorts that are all within walking distance. In fact, some travel bloggers even suggest staying at 1 Hotel South Beach. If you and your gal pals are really adventurous you can even go visit Little Havana!

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Santa Barbara, California

Travel bloggers agree that Santa Barbara can be great for a girls’ getaway because it truly has a lot to offer. You will find it less than 100 miles out of Los Angeles along Highway 1. Santa Barbara has an exceptional blend of palm tree-lined beach vibes, majestic mountains, and hip hot spots.  

A girls’ weekend here in Santa Barbara can be filled with an exceptional assortment of beach hikes, boutique browsing, brunch spots, chic wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, State Street’s busy bars, superb sunsets, and more. Indeed, the downtown area is visually highlighted by standout Mediterranean-like white stucco buildings with attractive red-tile roofs indicative of the city’s historic Spanish colonial heritage. Don’t miss the Funk Zone or the interesting Old Mission Santa Barbara either.

Are you interested in international travel again but want to take it slow? We understand. Why not consider a couple of distinct destinations in Mexico for your girls’ weekend?

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Tulum, Mexico

Experience a fun and festive girl’s getaway in Tulum. Want to avoid the crowds? Relax with your group at Laguna Kaan Luum. If you prefer sampling the local cuisine, shopping, and partying, you can do all that here too. 

Support feminism by dining at the one-and-only eatery owned by a woman, Wild Tulum. Shop the numerous boutiques and assorted artisanal shops along the beach or in town. If you enjoy trendy theme bars, have a mojito at Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar, or check out a full moon party at the poppin’ Papaya Playa Project. You can even book your stay at Intima, a clothing-optional resort sure to make more memories.

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Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

If you live on the west coast, Cabo San Lucas is easier to reach than Tulum. Plus, those in the know say it has a similar fun-filled, festive “girls’ getaway vibe.” In fact, this well-known vacation and spa location also has that celebrity stamp of approval.  

As previously reported, Sofia Richie and Justin Bieber kicked it here in 2016 and Lauren Conrad had her bachelorette party here two years earlier. Be sure to take in the sunset while dining at the beautiful, picturesque seaside El Farallon. Get your share of excitement at the world-famous Cabo Wabo Cantina which is owned by rock singer Sammy Hagar. If you’re feeling rather adventurous, try parasailing!

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If you like places that possess an otherworldly beauty, then read on, fellow travelers. Whether it’s tall volcanic towers or the country’s deepest craggy canyon, these formations are ruggedly stunning. It’s not hard to see that these tourist attractions rock! Here are the 12 most breathtaking rock formations in the USA.

The 12 Most Breathtaking Rock Formations In The USA

Valley Of Fire State Park, Nevada

The Valley Of Fire State Park is in Clark County not far from the town of Overton. In fact, Nevada’s first and oldest park can also serve as an easy day trip from glitzy Las Vegas. Here you will find close to 46,000 acres of red-orange Aztec sandstone from which the park’s name originates.

The landscape is 150 million years old. Highlights here include the Beehives and Pink Canyon. Don’t be surprised if this place makes you feel as if you’re on Mars. Hike the 1.5-mile round-trip trail to the fantastic Fire Wave.

It’s the kind of place you might find on your laptop’s default wallpaper. There’s also the popular Petroglyph Canyon Trail which is less than one mile and features a plethora of Puebloan rock art. A lot of it is over 2,000 years old.

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The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, New Mexico

Our next stop is The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument about 40 miles southwest of Santa Fe or less than an hour out of Albuquerque. Here you can wander through and wonder about huge natural cones of ash, pumice, and tuff deposits rising out of this unique landscape created by numerous volcanic eruptions over six to seven million years ago that covered the area in approximately 1,000 feet of natural debris. The rocks here look almost like tents, and many are as tall as 90 feet. For some great views, hike the easy Cave Loop Trail or the 1.5-mile Canyon Trail to see the Jemez, Sandia, and Sangre de Cristo Mountain ranges.

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The Colorado National Monument, Colorado

The Colorado National Monument is a lot more than a mere monument. This striking smorgasbord of rugged rock formations rising from the ground near Grand Junction offers travelers the opportunity to explore a number of red-rock canyons, rough sandstone towers, and even tunnels. Some say the rock formations here are second to none in the Southwest.

Here you can bike, hike, or drive depending on how much exercise you want. In fact, if you’d prefer a scenic drive, take the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive. Be sure to stop at the nearby McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. Here you will find the world’s “second-highest” number of rock arches, as well as alcoves, hoodoos, and spires.

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The Monument Rocks, Kansas

Monument Rocks is the country’s first official National Natural Landmark. Located in Gove County, south of Oakley, these 70-foot-tall towers of chalk mysteriously stand amidst raw ranchlands. It is believed that they are what remains of an ancient body of water that once filled middle America over 80 million years ago.

It is important to remember that you should not touch the rocks. They are quite susceptible to erosion and often contain fossils too. Veteran visitors say the easiest way to get here is to take “Gove County Roads 14 and 16” ‘til you see “Stonehenge-like structures” in the distance. Try to figure out which rock formation is named “Charlie the Dog.”

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Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah

Unsurprisingly, Cedar Breaks National Monument is not far from Cedar City. This natural red-rock amphitheater is smaller than Bryce Canyon, but almost 1,500 feet higher. If you want to do the type of things you can do in Bryce but want to avoid crowds, this is the place to be.

Cedar Breaks includes hoodoos, spires, painted cliffs, and fir and spruce forests too. The main road is closed to automobiles in the winter. So, unless you are into snowshoeing, you should probably visit sometime between June through October. Hike the amphitheater’s rim; see the sunset here and go on a ranger-led star party as well.

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Hells Canyon, Idaho, Oregon, And Washington

Hells Canyon is a canyon that is ten miles in width and has a depth of nearly 8,000 feet. It is deeper than the Grand Canyon. In fact, it is the deepest river gorge in the United States.  

The canyon spans land in three different states. This natural attraction was carved by the mighty Snake River a few million years ago. As of this writing, there are no bridges here and the area is generally wild and remote. Hike the popular Hells Canyon Scenic Byway along the rift’s Idaho side. Better yet, head for the river bottom and go whitewater rafting or jet boating.  

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Craters Of The Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho

Nestled in the Snake River Plain between the little towns of Carey and Arco, offers travelers 618 square miles of almost every form of lava possible. This includes tree molds, spatter cones, lava tubes, lava rivers, lava beds, and cinder cones ranging from between 2,000 to 15,000 years old. Here you can climb Inferno Cone, explore the easy half-mile Caves Trail through lava tubes, and check out the North Crater Flow Trail conveniently located close to the visitor center.

You can even go camping at the Lava Flow Campground. Don’t forget that the Craters of the Moon is the only dark-sky preserve in the US. Here you can enjoy truly unparalleled views of the magnificent Milky Way every single cloudless night. 

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The Garden Of The Gods, Colorado

The Garden Of The Gods is nestled on the outskirts of Colorado Springs. These 300-foot-tall, 300-million-year-old, natural sandstone rock formations thrust up out of the surrounding pinyon-juniper woodlands, arguably attracting more attention than nearby Pikes Peak. Here you can stroll the various paths just like in a normal garden.

In fact, there are 15 miles worth of hiking trails here. Each one of them leads to sturdy red giants that dwarf humans in both grandeur and size. Take the seven-mile scenic loop and get a 360-degree view of this rocky natural wonder. Visit early and beat out the crowds and enjoy a picnic lunch there too.

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The Cathedral Spires, South Dakota

The Cathedral Spires are ensconced in one of the best state parks in the US, Custer State Park in Custer. Veteran visitors can confirm that this place looks nothing like the local Great Plains. Part of the larger, well-known Needles complex, these great granite spires stand tall like a church choir, towering 500 feet above the lush greenery of the Black Hills.

This heavenly scenery can be seen up close via a surprisingly challenging 1.5-mile hiking trail that takes you amidst the tall towers of solid granite. You can access the trailhead via Needles Highway. Pack in a small picnic for the end of your hike and look for local wildlife.  

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Devils Tower, Wyoming

Devils Tower is one of the country’s most striking natural wonders and it’s just a brief stop off Interstate 90 too. Located in Crook County, this rock tower towers 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River. It is not quite like anything else on the planet. It was created by the ancient intrusion of magma into underground sedimentary rock. 

Devils Tower is considered to be a sacred site to at least 25 Native American Northern Plains tribes. It was the first official national monument. Hike the 1.3-mile Tower Trail around it. Movie mavens might recognize Devils Tower from the classic, famous film Close Encounters of the Third Kind.  

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Mono Lake, California

Magnificent Mono Lake is a large saltwater lake found in the Eastern Sierra. It spans an area of almost 70 square miles. Several things make it special. The lake is one of the oldest in North America.

It does not have an outlet and is reported to be saltier than the Pacific Ocean. The lake is also home to a lot of brine shrimp which makes this spot a great place for birdwatching. Ah, but it is, perhaps, most famous for its characteristic rising limestone stacks called tufta towers.  These spires of solid calcium carbonate are the result of the blend of the alkaline water of the lake and the water from the local freshwater springs. 

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The Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, Utah And Arizona

The Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness near Page, Arizona is said to be a majestic maze spanning 112,500 acres. Complete with largely untouched plateaus, deserts, cliffs, and backcountry canyons it’s a great place for awesome off-grid adventures for hikers and campers alike. Highlights here include the slot canyon Buckskin Gulch, Paria Canyon, and the famous attraction known as The Wave.  

There are no facilities here so be prepared to rough it big time! Permits are required for both overnight trips and day-hiking and need to be reserved at least four months in advance. Additionally, only 20 permits are given each day. Happy trails, fellow travelers!

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There is something special and even historical about the great American road trip.  Indeed, taking recent world events into account, road trips may even be more attractive to travelers concerned about flying.  If you also enjoy the variety of national parks, then have we got a trip idea for you!  Without further ado, here are the best US national park road trips to take any time.

The Best US National Park Road Trips To Do Anytime 

Centennial National Park Road Trip

This column was inspired in part by a nearly 15,000-mile road trip completed by road trip optimizer Randy Olson in 2016.  He spent two months visiting the 47 national parks located in the conterminous United States.  The trip went from southern California to northern Montana, Maine to Florida, and all places in between too.

Travel experts agree, that if you decide to attempt this same trip, that you start at Acadia National Park in the fall, and then hit Southern Utah and Texas next when the heat is “less oppressive.”  Can’t afford two months off?  Try shorter road trips to these national parks.

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Redwood National Park

This is one of several great California road trips for your bucket list.  Unlike a number of other US national parks, the rugged redwoods can be found in more than one park.  While a road trip here can be enjoyable any time of year, it is even better in the summer.  In the summer more energetic travelers can include a healthy hike through famed Fern Canyon, and a walk along Gold Bluffs beach.  Enjoy the water and see the tall conifers in the moonlight too.

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Theodore Roosevelt And Badlands National Parks

A well-planned road trip to this pair of national parks in North and South Dakota, will also take you through the lesser-known Custer State Park.  Get a good look as you get stuck in an actual “bison traffic jam” and don’t forget to cruise past the presidents found in the Black Hills at Mount Rushmore.  Indeed, a young Theodore Roosevelt visited this territory in 1883 and became enamored with it.

The conservation ethic born in him there later shaped the country’s future conservation efforts.  Visit the rough and ready Badlands.  No other place is quite like it.  Most importantly, before heading off, be sure to purchase a National Park Pass that will provide you with unlimited entrances to all 422 US national parks, historical sites, and almost 1,500 federal recreation areas too, for a once-a-year cost.

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Glacier National Park

Veteran visitors say the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, first open to visitors in the summer of 1933, is arguably the “greatest stretch of asphalt” in the USA.  Mainly because it runs through the much-underrated Glacier National Park in Montana along the border of Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.  If you don’t like snow, the best time to visit is in the summer.

You can see forests, mountains, waterfalls, wildflowers, and (naturally) glaciers too.  You may even spot bears and mountain goats.  Hikers have their choice of several scenic hiking trails.  Enjoy the engineering marvel known as The Loop where this famous road rises right along the mountain’s edge and makes hairpin turns.  It was the first US road to be listed as both a National Civil Engineering Landmark and a National Historic Landmark.”

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Death Valley National Park

While this is another park you can visit any time, taking a road trip here in the summer is reportedly more memorable because you can stop and check out the three numbers on the super-sized Furnace Creek thermometer.  Mind you, the otherworldly dry heat at this park that straddling the California-Nevada border can be risky for the faint at heart as it has been as high as 128 degrees Fahrenheit there recently.

They have almost matched what experts note is the official “hottest temperature ever recorded” on the entire planet.  Local highlights include Badwater Basin.  It’s the official “lowest point” on the entire continent.  See the singing sand dunes and the popular mysterious moving rocks there too.

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Olympic National Park

Washington State’s The Puget Sound separates this particular park from the city of Seattle.  This place has a surprising history of myths, legends, and torrid tales.  Indeed, if you’re a fan of Twilight you won’t want to miss a stop in Forks.

The best time to take a road trip here is roughly between the months of May and August.  In fact, Pacific Northwesterners prefer this time of the year but tend not to advertise it.  All the trails and roads are open then too.

Into geography?  You can enjoy the official “westernmost point of the continental U.S.” on this wet and wild road trip.  Outdoor athletes can hike Hurricane Ridge.  Just remember to head out early.  The trail itself is easily accessible and provides a memorable view of the awesome Olympic Range too.

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Acadia National Park

Sure, everyone knows New England is one place to go to see fantastic fall foliage.  Ah, but regular readers also know that there is another great place to visit in the spring and summer–Acadia National Park nestled along the coast of Maine.  Yes, if you like towering pine trees, cooking pots filled with freshly prepared lobster, and lonely lighthouses located on rugged, rocky shores, this is the place for you.  Spend three days there and you can also check out Bar Harbor’s other attractions including Thunder Hole,  and the oldest bookstore in Maine.

You can also go camping and sample some popular popovers at the Jordan Pond House.  If you can spare the time, cruise over to New Hampshire and hit the cool Kancamagus Highway as well.

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Crater Lake National Park

This national park in Oregon is praised for its “starry night skies”, “scenic highways”, and beautiful blue water.  You will find it roughly four hours out of Portland. Or a good six hours north of the popular Bay Area.

The water here is said to be very refreshing here after a good hike.  Explore the outskirts of the park and enjoy the outdoors.  Some travelers enjoy the park so much they actually plan road trips to explore the entire state.  See what you think!

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Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks

You want an epic multi-day national park road trip?  See the sights at five famous national parks in Southern Utah. Travel the remote roadways running through the rough-hewn heart of the American West via the “Mighty Five” parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion.

This park road trip is praised for the rainbow of colors, noteworthy day hikes, striking photographic opportunities both in and out of your vehicle, and the fact that the trip is made incredibly easy thanks to the proximity of the five parks.  Visitors have easy access to parking and free shuttles, and the trailheads lead hikers to breathtakingly beautiful views.

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Indiana Dunes National Park

You begin this road trip in Chicago, Illinois.  In less than half an hour, you will find yourself in this comparatively new national park.  Mind you, you won’t be driving around the park’s sand dunes in your car, but you can get a super view of them and even stop and explore them more closely if you wish.

According to Indiana’s official tourism website though the signature sand dunes are only part of what you will find around here.  There are unique plants and animals, brewery and winery trails, a fun waterpark, and even casinos.  What’s more, this particular national park road trip can also be a relatively easy and fun “beach getaway.”

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Yellowstone National Park

As previously noted, travel writers generally agree that well-known Going-to-the-Sun is pretty much the best road in a US national park, a day or more of road-tripping through world-famous Yellowstone National Park is not like anything else on this list.  This huge park covers areas of three states– Wyoming, Montana and Idaho.  Officially, it is the first national park in the USA and possibly even the world.

Here you might see such resident animals as bears, bison, coyote, and elk.  Don’t forget out the geysers here either.  If you are concerned about crowds, avoid visiting in July.  Although veteran visitors agree that the place is so large that once you hit the major attractions such as the famous geyser Old Faithful, there is plenty of room ro find a natural niche of your own both in and out of your vehicle.  Roughly 80 percent of the tourists don’t go more than 15 minutes away from their car.  So explore a little and enjoy the relative privacy.

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Yosemite National Park

Despite recent concerns in some of the big cities, California remains an incredible place to take a road trip.  Enter this gorgeous national park from the east after you first check out the gateway to the park, magnificent Mono Lake.  Your next stop is Yosemite Valley where you can experience this popular park just as famous photographer and environmentalist Ansel Adams once did with Half Dome and El Capitan looming large in the background.

If you follow this plan, it gives you more flexibility to check out not only Mono Lake but striking Tuolumne Meadows and even Tioga Pass, providing you travel there in summer when all the snow has been cleared.  Don’t forget to save time to see the waterfalls as well.

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Everglades National Park

This park is the third largest national park in “the lower 48.”  It is surpassed in size only by Death Valley and Yellowstone.  Regular readers know that much like many other national parks on our road trip list, for a number of different reasons, it is also a popular one.  Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reportedly fragile ecosystem is also an official International Biosphere Reserve.

Perhaps more importantly, it is also home to such wildlife as birds, manatees, panthers, and American crocodiles.  Unlike the previously mentioned parks, this is a huge, watery place so you will only see a limited portion of it unless you stop and occasionally exit your vehicle.  Take an airboat ride or go kayaking to see more of this park.  Unless you enjoy hot and sticky weather, do not visit in the height of summer.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

This park in Tennessee always makes the list of “most visited national park” and often tops it.  The best time to visit if you like lots of color to your lovely landscapes, is during the fall.  The Blue Ridge Parkway site suggests a park road trip that involves not only this park but also Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge.

Many travelers to this area visit both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway.  The area comes complete with natural beauty, rich culture, and a lot of things to do.  This area of both Tennessee and North Carolina are also said to be quite beautiful in the fall.  Be sure to cruise the lovely Tail of the Dragon too if you have the time.

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Joshua Tree National Park

Undoubtedly made famous in part by the 1987 U2 album of the same name, this national park might appear to be nothing but trees and rocks.  (Your rovin’ writer has hiked there and understands that misconception!)  Still take the road trip and really explore the place.  You will find that this park, less than two-and-a-half hours out of Los Angeles, is more than its namesake trees and rugged boulders.

The best time to visit this popular park is early in the day during March or April when you will also see a lot of desert wildflowers.  The 11th most-visited park, it also features at least 500 archeological sites and some of the best places in the country to go rock-climbing.  Go four-wheeling on Geology Tour Road if you have the right kind of vehicle.  Other places to add to your list for this road trip include Pioneertown, the Integraton, and have a meal at the popular Natural Sisters Cafe as well.  Don’t forget to check out Keys View either!

The post The Best US National Park Road Trips To Do Anytime   appeared first on Add to Bucketlist , Vacation Deals.

Traveling in the USA offers a lot of choices. Some choose to focus on specific attractions, some on specific states, and others on specific areas. If you’re one of the latter and have decided to tackle the US South, we’re here to help. Without further ado, here, in no particular order, are the 21 best places to visit in the US South.

21 Best Places to Visit In The US South

1. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

Providence Canyon State Park is in the city of Lumpkin. It’s a great place for a day trip or even a weekend getaway. Some call this place “the Little Grand Canyon.” It spans an area of more than 1,000 acres. Here you can explore the rugged rock formations that make this park popular. Hike the favored White Blaze Canyon Loop Trail too. See the odd, abandoned homestead here that features almost a dozen rusting 1950s-era vehicles that remain there to avoid damaging the environment.

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Next on our list of best places to visit in the South is the city of Charleston. Noted for its noteworthy architecture and history, a visit here is like traveling backward in time. The city was founded in the 1600s.

Regular readers may recall that the highlights here include Rainbow Row, Waterfront Park near charming Charleston Harbor, and Fort Sumter (where the infamous Civil War began). If you’re in the mood for some fun in the sun, this beach-adjacent place also includes Folly Beach and the exceptional Isle of Palms. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the highly-rated restaurant, FIG.

3. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island reportedly has some of Texas’ prettiest beaches. Situated on the Earth’s longest barrier island, this resort town also has a lot of exceptional seafood restaurants. Animal lovers can see birds, dolphins, and sea turtles too. After a day of fun and sun at the beach, dance the night away at Clayton’s Bar. It’s the biggest beach bar on the entire Texas coast. It’s a great place to party!

4. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville can be found on the edge of the great Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Some say it is similar to Denver, Colorado in that it, too, is a place for outdoor adventures. Nestled near the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s a great spot for newly married couples who simply can’t decide on a romantic getaway in the city or the countryside. Its architecture, art scene, cafes, and other assorted eateries seemingly scream “city” but its white water rafting and high adventure hiking cry “country.”

5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas

If you prefer a smaller city with a small-town vibe, check out Eureka Springs. Listed on the official National Register of Historic Places and located in the awesome Ozark Mountains, this place is well-known for its impressive Victorian architecture. Explore the local hot springs, and drop by Lake Leatherwood City Park. Learn more about local history at the Eureka Springs Historical Museum too.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

No list of best places to visit in the US South would be complete without this well-known city on the mighty Mississippi River. While travelers will find fine food, rich culture, and heaps of history all year long, the best time to visit is naturally during Mardi Gras, so you can get in on the fun and festivities. Regardless of when you visit, be sure to stroll down Bourbon Street, experience the French influence, enjoy City Park, and visit attractive New Orleans Jazz, one of Louisiana’s national parks too.

7. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is perhaps most famous for being the home of one of the country’s best art colleges, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Situated on the coast of the rushing Savannah River, the city is also soaked with historical culture. Here you can discover historic cobblestone streets, great cafes, and pretty parks with beautiful fountains. Be sure to sample the fare at The Olde Pink House as well.

8. Somerset, Kentucky

Somerset has only 11,000 residents. Some travelers might overlook it on their way to the city of Lexington, but this small town in the US South is definitely worth a visit. Located close to lovely Lake Cumberland, it is home to several unique attractions. If you’re on a family trip, you simply must drop into SomerSplash Waterpark. There’s also the International Paranormal Museum and Research Center and the thirst-quenching Jarfly Brewing Company for adults!

9. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio has a population of over 1.5 million. It is also one of the most prominent places in the US South. Here you can choose from a number of different coffee shops, exceptional restaurants, and historical sites.

Indeed, it is one of the South’s best cities in terms of both history and culture. The city is perhaps most famous for being the home of The Alamo. It’s one of the most popular historical spots in the city. Regular readers already know that you should be sure to take a stroll on the well-known River Walk.

10. Nashville, Tennessee

Welcome to Tennessee’s biggest city. It’s also a must-visit destination when visiting the US South. Undoubtedly most famous for its music venues and music-related attractions, it’s a common entry on many travel bucket lists. Highlights here include the Grand Ole Opry, the popular Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and even the photogenic Parthenon, which is surprisingly a replica of the famous Greek landmark.

11. Everglades National Park, Florida

If you have yet to see it, then it’s about time, isn’t it? The popular Everglades National Park in Homestead. This huge park covers much of the state and weighs in at nearly 1.5 million acres.

Here animal lovers can see a lot of local creatures from alligators to manatees. Many of the local denizens, such as the American crocodile and Florida panther, are endangered as well. To ensure your personal safety, sign up for a guided tour.

12. Upper Caney Creek Falls, Alabama

You will find the Alabama landmark known as Upper Caney Creek Falls not far from Double Springs. This waterfall is on our list of best places to visit in the US South because it is actually one of the top-rated waterfalls in Alabama. You will need to complete a hike in order to reach the waterfall, but it’s not too strenuous. More specifically, it is an in-and-out backtrail hike that is more than one mile long.

13. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park is another top-rated national park in the US South. Nestled near the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the park includes part of the awesome Appalachian Trail and the stunning Skyline Drive. This scenic drive takes you through the very mountains and offers travelers some of the park’s best views. If you enjoy hiking, be sure to spend some time at Old Rag Mountain, where you can go enjoy a memorable hike as well.

14. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is steeped in history and comes complete with many things to see and do. Be sure to check out the famous World of Coca-Cola, the memorable museum dedicated to the top-selling soda of the same name. If you’re an aficionado of flora, stop in at the attractive Atlanta Botanical Garden, which spans nearly 30 acres. Traveling with the family? Stop at the Georgia Aquarium. Art lovers need to see the popular High Museum of Art.

15. Greenville, South Carolina

Your rovin’ writer once had a lady friend in Greenville, so he can attest to how warm and friendly the lovely locals can be. But seriously, folks, Greenville has a lot going for it. It’s a great little place for a southern getaway.

Not only is the downtown area charming, but there’s a lot of nature and a surprisingly enjoyable food scene as well. There are a number of different distinct restaurants where one can sample and savor delicious southern dishes. You will even find a wide variety of specialties here–from Asian to European.

Take in the memorable view of Falls Park on the rushing Reed River from Liberty Bridge. The park offers both beautiful gardens and hiking trails. Indeed, since Greenville is located on the verdant foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Upcountry, this is also a great place for nature lovers. Shut off your smartphone and enjoy nature!

16. Helen, Georgia

This little place in the mountains is also less than 65 miles from the local airport. It is arguably most famously known as “Georgia’s Little Bavaria.” Indeed, regular readers should already know that the city of Helen really has a German look and feel to it.

Notice the iconic Bavarian architecture. If you enjoy adult beverages, be sure to stop at the Habersham Winery. If outdoor attractions are your thing then be sure to take the time to explore the Chattahoochee National Forest.

17. Bay Of St. Louis, Mississippi

The Bay of St. Louis is actually both a city and a body of water. The best time to visit? Any time, because there are a number of things to do and see no matter when you decide to visit. Learn about folk art at the Alice Mosley Folk Art and Antique Museum. Dine at Sycamore House. It’s run by a married couple and offers guests some of the best eats in the city.

18. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

If you’ve never been there, it might surprise you to see Gatlinburg on this list. The truth is it’s a picturesque town nestled in the majestic mountains of Tennessee. Veteran visitors can confirm it is also a great place to use as your base camp when you’re serious about exploring the well-known Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

You should also be sure to see Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This huge aquarium is packed full of sea denizens. Enjoy some family-friendly outdoor fun at the award-winning theme park known as Anakeesta as well.

19. Bardstown, Kentucky

The little city of Bardstown has a population of roughly 13,000. Still, that is part of what makes the place one of America’s “most beautiful small towns/cities to visit.” Bardstown is perhaps most famous for its exceptional bourbon.

There’s more than one distillery here, so you will have your choice of which one to visit. Some travel writers suggest touring the Barton 1792 Distillery. While you’re focused on barroom beverages, why not check out the popular Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History too? It is there that you can learn a lot about whiskey. Be sure to tour the renowned Old Kentucky Home too which has been standing since the 1800s.

20. Oxford, Mississippi

The historic city of Oxford in Mississippi, not England, was founded in the 1800s. It is reportedly often slotted in higher than many top places to live thanks in part to the presence of Ole Miss, a.k.a. The University of Mississippi, it is an active college town. Here you can roam around an assortment of outdoor parks and great art galleries.

Highlights here include the well-known Rowan Oak and the Oxford Treehouse Gallery, Lamar Park, and Avent Park which features a cute castle-shaped playground for the kiddies. Have dinner at the Ajax Diner. Those who have been recommend the fried oyster po’boys with pimento cheese.

21. The Big Bend National Park, Texas

Last but certainly not least is the beautiful Big Bend National Park. This national park is perhaps one of the most extraordinary, best places to visit in the American South. Found in southwestern Texas, it is quite close to Study Butte and the mining district of Terlingua.

The closest big city is El Paso so many people visit via the El Paso International Airport. The top attraction at the park is the striking Santa Elena Canyon. Other must-see spots here are Boquillas Canyon, Emory Peak, and the Lost Mine Trail.

Those are our 21 best places to visit in the US South. Did we miss your favorite? Let us know in the comments section!

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Traveling all over the world is great! Still, even in a strange land, we often discover the warmest welcomings in quaint little villages. Indeed, in the USA there’s often something quite charming about small towns in the summer. Thus, without further ado, we present the 15 best small towns for summer vacations.

15 Best U.S. Small Towns For Summer Vacations

1. Narrowsburg, New York

The hamlet of Narrowsburg is nestled on the Delaware River. With a population of 269, this is a great place for such river recreations as canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. In fact, you can sign on for both half and full-day river excursions. Be sure to grab some snacks at the noteworthy Narrowsburg Proper general store before boarding. for snacks and sundries before your outing. Dine at The Heron. The Laundrette, or the Cochecton Fire Station. Book your stay across the river in Pennsylvania’s popular Hotel Darby.

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Buckeye Lake, Ohio

Some travel writers claim this village is “classic Americana.” Popular for its lakes, it has a population of 2,805. Veteran visitors say a lovely lakefront cottage here can be like “a home away from home.”  

Wake up with a hot cup of java from Millersport Coffee. Then take a morning power walk or jog along the local Buckeye Lake Dam Walking & Biking Trail. Sign on for a kayak-biking-brewery expedition and experience the local lakes, hiking trails, breweries, wineries, and assorted eateries as well. Rent a pontoon and enjoy the lake by yourself. Sample the ice cream at Weldon’s, and have a nightcap at one of the beach bars.

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Addison, Texas

The town of Addison covers an area of just 4.4 square miles. There are less than 16,000 people living here and yet you can choose from dining at 200 restaurants. Residents claim they have more places to eat per capita than any other US city.

The best time to visit is on July 3rd. It’s then you can see their fun fireworks show known as “Addison Kaboom Town!” More than 500,000 people come to see the show, eat at their restaurants, and stay in one of their 22 hotels which offer specials and even host watch parties. Indeed, Home2Suites can provide rooms with stunning views.

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Adairsville, Georgia

Here you’ll find just 4,800 people. Shop for gifts at the historic 1902 Stock Exchange & Public Square Opera House, and sample a tasty slice of hummingbird cake at the memorable Maggie Mae’s Tea Room. Burn off the calories at Barnsley Resort, where you can engage in a number of different outdoor activities including archery, ax throwing, clay target shooting, disc golf, fishing, golf, or horseback riding. You can also enjoy the spa and the saltwater pool. Be sure to check out the Savoy Automobile Museum too complete with its Art Deco cars, woodie wagons, and racing cars.

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Coronado, California

Coronado may be close to San Diego, but it’s home to only 20,192 people and feels far from the rush of the city. It’s small enough that you can walk or bike everywhere and features beautiful beaches and gin-clear water. Foodies and shopaholics will enjoy the charming main street known as Orange Avenue.  

Explore the art galleries, boutiques, theatres, and assorted eateries. Don’t miss the educational Coronado Museum of History & Art. Stay at the famous Hotel del Coronado either. Every summer weekend there’s free live music at Ferry Landing too!

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Travelers Rest, South Carolina

For hundreds of years, this town has been just that, a resting place for travelers heading over the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains. This inviting spot is home to 5,152 and such restaurants as Monkey Wrench BBQ, Tandem Creperie, and Topsoil.

You can rest in a couple of noteworthy places. There’s the quaint Swamp Rabbit Inn Travelers Rest, and Hotel Domestique. The latter is a boutique hotel owned by the celebrated cyclist George Hincapie. Rooms come complete with mountain views. Hike or bike the 22-mile Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail and enjoy the Music in the Park Series in Trailblazer Park.

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Bardstown, Kentucky

​Bardstown, a.k.a. the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” has a population of 13,567, and is home to 11 distinct distilleries. Veteran visitors favor the Bardstown Bourbon Company, the Heaven Hill Distillery, and the Log Still Distillery. There’s also the Old Talbott Tavern, America’s oldest Western Stagecoach stop, and the world’s oldest Bourbon bar. Get a seat on the Bourbon Excursion with the popular 1940s vintage My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. Sleep it off at the well-known Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast or even the Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast.  

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Abilene, Kansas

Historic Abilene has a population of 6,500. This small town still has a lot to see. You can tour the award-winning Seelye Mansion and bowl in a bowling alley from 1905.  

Check out the exhibits at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. Ride a steam engine that’s over 100 years old on the local Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad. Enjoy a ride on a genuine 1901 C.W. Parker Carousel at the Dickinson County Heritage Center. It is officially “the oldest operating Parker Carousel” in existence. Get a room at the Victorian Inn Bed & Breakfast.

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St. Michaels, Maryland

Home to 1,108 people, some call this small town on the Miles River, “the Hamptons of the mid-Atlantic.” Naturally, it’s a great place for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing. See the 17th-century homes on Talbot Street.

Stay at The Inn at Perry Cabin. You might recognize it from the comedy Wedding Crashers which was filmed there. You could also stay at The Wildset Hotel and dine at its on-site eatery, Ruse. Dine on Maryland crabs and oysters too. Less than 50 minutes away, you’ll find the historic Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park.

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Dewey Beach, Delaware

Only 332 people live here but in the summer, it’s visited by a bunch of beach-goers. Still, with the bay on one side and the ocean on the other, it’s worth the visit. Get a room at Hyatt Place Dewey Beach, less than one mile from the famous Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy a stroll there. Book a charter boat here and dine on incredible crab cakes at Woody’s Dewey Beach.

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Sheridan, Wyoming

17,844 people live here. Surprisingly, there’s a lot to do in Sheridan. You can go to the WYO Theater and see a show.  

Experience the Sheridan County Rodeo, catch a polo match at the popular Big Horn Equestrian Center, and learn about cowboy culture and the town’s history at the Museum at the Big Horns, the Don King Museum, and Fort Phil Kearny. Music lovers can enjoy one of the Concerts in the Park, any Tuesday. Have fun at the popular 3rd Thursday street festival, and shop at the weekly Farmers Markets.

Hermann, Missouri

Here in Hermann, you’ll see a lot of picturesque German architecture. It was founded in 1837 by German immigrants and now has a population of almost 2,400 people. Its’ reportedly the very heart of Missouri’s wine country.

Experts recommend visiting the Adam Puchta Winery, the Black Shire Distillery, Martin Brothers Mead, and Stone Hill Winery. Tour the historic homes at the Deutschheim State Historic Site, the Teubner-Husmann home, and Hermann Farm. Consider a stay at the popular Cottage which comes complete with a trio of treehouses that offer superb views of the local landscape.

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New Paltz, New York

The 7,165 residents of this town agree this is a great place for a summer vacation. Shopaholics and souvenir-seekers will love the Main Street boutiques and the open-air Water Street Market that offers art, antiques, and more. Hike the River-to-Ridge Trail if you’re feeling athletic or visit litreally a dozen wineries along the Shawangunk Wine Trail if you need more than nature to inspire you. Book your stay at the Victorian castle resort known as Mohonk Mountain House. Run by the Smiley family since it opened in 1869, it has a spa, tennis courts, and even horseback riding facilities.

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 Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Only 91 people live in this small New England village. It’s nestled in the “larger” town named Caroll which is home to 820 residents. The major draw here is the awesome Omni Mount Washington Resort.  

Here you can go zip-lining, play golf on the Donald Ross-designed course and partake in award-winning dining. You can also ride the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, the Mt. Washington Cog Railway. Visit Crawford Notch State Park too and do some fishing, waterfall chasing, and wildlife viewing.

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McCall, Idaho

Sharlie is a creature who lives in local Payette Lake. The 3,200 residents claim this monster is a minimum of “35 feet long, with a dinosaur-type head, pronounced jaw, humps like a camel, and shell-like skin.” But there’s more to this small town in the West Central Mountains than Sharlie.  

You can go birdwatching, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, paddleboarding, waterskiing, whitewater rafting, take a dinner cruise, and visit Salmon River Brewery’s rooftop beer garden. Dine at the Jug Mountain Ranch or Clubhouse Restaurant. Book your accommodations at the Hotel McCall or Shore Lodge.

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Are you the kind of traveler who simply falls for a fully-rushing waterfall? With the winter snow and frozen lakes and rivers melting, now is really the time to make your travel plans. In order to help you with that difficult task, here are the best US national parks for waterfalls.

The Best US National Parks For Waterfalls

1. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

The 25 active glaciers here make this park one of the best places for waterfalls. As the glaciers melt, they feed over 150 waterfalls and cascades. Many are over 300 feet high.

You can actually see a number of them from specific viewpoints at the side of the road. To see others, you’ll have to do some hiking. Myrtle Falls is an example of the latter. Narada Falls is a good example of the former. Like many waterfalls, the best time to visit them is from spring to early fall. Other noteworthy falls found here include Christine Falls, Comet Falls, and Silver Falls.  

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina, And Tennessee

This park is home to over 100 waterfalls and cascades. The park is fairly riddled with over 2,000 miles of rivers and streams thanks to abundant rainfall and a reportedly “ideal elevation gradient.” While there are literally dozens of lesser cascades, the most popular are reported to be Abrams, Grotto, Laurel, and Rainbow Falls. The best time to see the falls is spring through early summer. You can camp here or even take a day trip out of nearby Asheville.

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Yosemite National Park, California

Situated east of San Francisco, Yosemite is home to a plethora of pretty waterfalls. Yosemite Falls, which drops 2,425 feet, is one of the world’s highest waterfalls. The best time to visit is usually May through June when most of the snow melts. If you visit in late spring, you can see the Yosemite Falls moonbow. (For those not in the know, a moonbow is a lunar rainbow that is actually created by moonlight instead of direct sunlight.) Other iconic falls here include Bridalveil Fall, Horsetail Fall, Nevada Fall, and Vernal Fall.  

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Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Most people probably don’t think about waterfalls when they think of the Grand Canyon, and yet Havasu Falls is truly an oasis within this arid, unforgiving landscape. It’s arguably one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the planet and is found in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, west of the Grand Canyon Village’s main tourist area on the South Rim. The Havasupai Tribe runs the reservation and getting to the falls requires some planning.  

Permits sell out quickly and you can make reservations starting in February. Day hiking is not permitted so plan on camping overnight. The best time to visit is in the spring.  

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Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Lovely Lower Doyles River Falls is perhaps the most beautiful waterfall in this park. Mind you, there are several stunning waterfalls here. The most easily accessible and popular of them all is Dark Hollow Falls.

If you’re up for an invigorating day hike past several waterfalls, head for Whiteoak Canyon. The trailheads are all found on surprisingly scenic Skyline Drive. The best time to see the falls here is spring through early summer. Be sure to see Rose River Falls, South River Falls, and (of course) Whiteoak Canyon Falls.

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Nestled deep in the woods of this underrated national park, is beautiful Blue Hen Falls. You have to hike a short trail in but it’s nothing strenuous. Aside from the scenic waterfalls here, these protected lands also include noteworthy natural scenery, and wildlife too.

If you prefer, you can rent a bicycle here or even climb aboard the popular Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to explore the park. The best time to visit is in the spring and fall. Be sure to see Brandywine Falls too!

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Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Idaho, And Montana

There is a trio of memorable waterfalls here in Yellowstone. Upper Yellowstone Falls (pictured) is but one of them. This vast national park is one of the best to visit in the spring. It is famous for more than waterfalls.  

There are wonderful hot springs and geysers, and wildlife such as American bison, grizzly bears, and wolves. Indeed, in comparison, the waterfalls are almost a well-kept secret. There are over 40 named waterfalls here and several more that are still unnamed.

Perhaps the most popular falls here are the Lower Falls in the well-known Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Check out the Kepler Cascades, the Undine Falls, and the Wraith Falls as well.

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Glacier National Park, Montana

Despite climate change, there are still approximately 37 glaciers here in Glacier National Park. While the glacial melt continues to feed lakes and streams here, the window to see waterfalls here is relatively narrow. So it’s important to remember that summer is the best time to chase waterfalls.    

Take a road trip and pencil in some time to cruise the great Going-to-the-Sun Road. It is said by some sources to be “one of the best roads” in the US national parks. More importantly, it is here on this drive that you will come across a number of different hiking trails that specifically lead to some wonderful waterfalls. Veteran visitors suggest seeing the McDonald Falls, the St. Mary Falls, and the Virginia Falls as well.

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Olympic National Park, Washington

This park has everything needed for waterfall hunting including epic coastlines, massive mountain ranges, and primeval forests. There’s also plenty of water and a lot of places where it can go rushing down. The Sol Duc Falls is reported to be one of the park’s top attractions. Other waterfalls worth checking out include Donahue Creek, Madison, Marymere, and Royal Basin. Be sure you visit sometime in the spring or early fall.

There you have it, fellow frequent flyers, the best US national parks for chasing waterfalls. Did we mention your favorite? Let us know in the comments section below! 

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If you want to explore the US and need to get back to nature, then read on, fellow travelers! There are many places where you can get out into the wild in America. Thus, we present the wonderful wilderness of the USA.

The Wonderful Wilderness Of The USA

1.  The Sipsey Wilderness

Head for the northern section of the William B. Bankhead National Forest in the northwestern part of Alabama. Here you can explore the 25.809 acres of Sipsey Wilderness. Here you can go camping, hiking, and even horseback riding. Be sure to see beautiful Mize Mills Falls and the Turkey Foot Falls too.

2.  The Wrangell-Saint Elias Wilderness

According to the National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS), the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska is officially the “largest designated wilderness.” It includes a remarkable 9,432,000 acres and features wild rivers, remote valleys, and Mount Saint Elias, the nation’s second-highest peak. It’s 18,008 feet high. This wilderness is also home to black and grizzly bears, Dall sheep, moose, and mountain goats.

3.  The Mazatzal Wilderness Area

“Mazatzal” is Aztec for “an area inhabited by deer.” Oddly, at press time, there’s no proof that actual Aztecs ever visited this rugged mountainous region in the Tonto National Forest in Arizona. Here you will find 250,760 acres of striking wilderness. It includes semi-desert grassland, Sonoran Desert shrubland, more than 240 miles of hiking trails, and the state’s only Wild River Area.

4.  The Buffalo National River Wilderness

The isolated Buffalo National River Wilderness is in the Ozark National Forest, Arkansas. This 34,933-acre area is highlighted by the Buffalo River, towering dolomites, and beautiful, hidden waterfalls. This scenic place is perfect for such outdoor activities as canoeing, hiking, and wildlife-watching. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, black bears, and elk.

5.  The Yosemite Wilderness

Are you surprised to hear that 94 percent of the 704,624 acres of Yosemite National Park in California is designated wilderness? The surrounding national forest is stark white with snow during the winter months and lush, verdant green during the summer. Explore the towering sequoias, wonderful waterfalls, gorgeous glacier-filled lakes, and the 700+ miles of hiking trails here.

6.  The Lava Beds Wilderness

You will find the unique Lava Beds Wilderness is part of California’s Lava Bed National Monument. Born of ancient volcanic turmoil, this area encompasses 28,460 acres. See the vegetation-covered cinder cones, the yellow blazing star, western sword fern, and famous purple desert sage. Be sure to check out some of the 500 caves of oddly-shaped lava tubes too!     

7.  The Ventana Wilderness

The Ventana Wilderness’ 236,726 acres in Los Padres National Forest bestraddles the stunning Santa Lucia Mountains along California’s Central Coast. Here you can see craggy peaks, deep pools, deep valleys, major streams, sharp, steep ridges, thermal springs, and waterfalls. There are also 197 miles of hiking trails here. Travel writers confirm the 24-mile Pine Ridge Trail is the most popular.

8.  The Never Summer Wilderness

The 20,847 acres of the Never Summer Wilderness in Colorado’s Arapaho National Forest are subject to more rain and snow than summer sunshine. Highlights of this area include 17 peaks that tower over 12,000 high, a trio of major rivers, 20 miles of hiking trails, 600-year-old fir and spruce trees, and you might spot pygmy shrews, wood frogs, and wolverines. 

9.  The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness

The Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness is nestled within the Everglades National Park in Florida. It covers 1,296,500 of the park’s total 1.4 million acres. The tall grasses of the marshland house flamingoes, alligators, and more. Take a boat excursion to popular Florida Bay and see not only nesting sites but also sea turtles, bottle-nosed dolphins, and sharks too.

10.  The Pelican Island Wilderness

The Pelican Island Wilderness in the Indian River’s wide lagoon in Florida’s Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge covers only 5.5 acres. Thus, it is actually the “smallest designated wilderness” in the US. It is home to a total of 15 officially “threatened and endangered species.” Various wading birds dine on the many natural fish here. Brown pelicans, oystercatchers, and great blue herons nest even here.

11.  The J.N. “Ding” Darling Wilderness

Located in the northern section of the 6,400-acre J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge in Florida, this group of mangrove islands spans 2,619 acres. The refuge began as a refuge for river otters, alligators, and a number of different migratory birds. Here you can go fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and even motorboating in specific areas.

12.  The Okefenokee Wilderness

Spread out over 353,981 acres of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Georgia, this remote wilderness area is a peaceful place. Camp here on a wooden platform amidst the moss-draped cypress and wet prairie. Hear the calls of the ibis and herons. Be sure to check out the famous Okefenokee Swamp too. It’s one of the country’s best-preserved and oldest freshwater areas. 

13.  The Hawaii Volcanoes Wilderness

While in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, on Hawaii’s Big Island, be sure to explore the designated wilderness. It’s divided into four separate sections. Mauna Loa is located in the northwestern section. In the southwest, you’ll find miles of coastline worth exploring too. There’s a total of 123,100 acres here including almost 150 miles of hiking trails. Try the Ka’aha Trail.

14.  The Bitterroot Mountain Wilderness

The beautiful 1,347,644-acre Bitterroot Mountain Wilderness in Bitterroot National Forest straddles both Montana and Idaho. There are 1,092,854 acres In Idaho and 254,790 acres in Montana. You’ll see the rugged ridges and rough granite peaks, the deep canyons, and forest. Hike some of the 1,800 miles of hiking trails and look for Selway elk.

15.  The Isle Royale Wilderness

The Isle Royale Wilderness covers 99 percent of Michigan’s Isle Royale National Park. It spans an area of 132,018 acres. It holds multiple honors including the continent’s “largest freshwater lake”, “the largest island”, and the state’s “largest wilderness area.” It features a shoreline forest, 36 campgrounds, more than 100 ponds, and lakes, and 170 miles of hiking trails.

16.  The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

Travel to the stunning Superior National Forest in Minnesota. Here you can explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Explore the 816,244 acres of beaches, rugged crags, and rocky shores. Here you’ll find 18 hiking trails, 1,200 miles of routes for canoeing, and 2,200 campsites. It neighbors the Quetico Provincial Park in Canada too!

17.  The Bob Marshall Wilderness

The Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana’s Flathead National Forest is the oldest and perhaps the most popular of three wildernesses that make up the entire Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. The other two are The Scapegoat and The Great Bear Wilderness. Designated in 1964, it is the largest of the trio encompassing an area of 1,062,694 acres.

18.  The Arc Dome Wilderness

Situated in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Nevada, the well-known Arc Dome Wilderness is specifically found in the Toiyabe Range’s southern area. Explore 120,551 acres of the range’s highest summits and visit the Arc Dome which stands 11,775 feet tall. Take the Cow Canyon Trail. It follows the Reese River which is great for trout fishing.

19.  The Sandwich Range Wilderness

This wilderness in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is special. It is one of the few wilderness areas in the entire northeastern US. It is 35,301 acres of high mountain passes, long ridgelines, rugged valleys, shining pools, and bubbling streams. Visit the southeastern section of the White Mountains and hike part of the 57 miles of historic hiking trails.

20.  The Ah-shi-sle-pah Wilderness

New Mexico’s badland area, the Ah-shi-sle-pah Wilderness, is quite distinct despite it only covering 7,242 acres. It is an interesting, otherworldly landscape that features barren, wide valleys, gray-white clay hills, and yellow-orange fairy chimneys or “hoodoos.” There’s very little vegetation here so you may discover various unique fossils and geological formations.

21.  The Three Sisters Wilderness

Visitors to the Willamette National Forest and Deschutes National Forest in Oregon can visit these 283,818 acres of wilderness. It’s the second-largest wilderness in the state. Highlights here are South Sister, Middle Sister, and North Sister. Their individual heights are between approximately 10,085 and 10,358 feet. See the alpine meadows, forests, lava fields, and 260 miles of hiking trails here.

22.  The Badlands Wilderness

If you’re headed to the famous Badlands National Park in South Dakota, be sure to stop to see some of the 64,144-acre Badlands Wilderness. It’s more than 38 million years old and began as little more than a marshy jungle that was home to now-extinct saber-toothed cats. Weather conditions eventually transformed the place into a mixed-grassland complete with gorges, cliffs, and canyons.

23.  The Citico Creek Wilderness

The Citico Creek Wilderness in the Cherokee National Forest is the largest in the state of Tennessee. In the 1920s it was heavily impacted by tree logging, yet today there still remains a number of strands of virgin forest amidst its 16,213 acres. Be sure to take the popular designated Cherohala Skyway which will give you access to the 70-foot high Falls Branch Falls.  

24.  The Guadalupe Mountains Wilderness

More than half of Texas’ Guadalupe Mountains National Park is designated wilderness and is home to the most exposed and extensive fossil reef on the planet as well. The highest point here is the well-known Guadalupe Peak which stands 8,749 feet high. Hike the 8.4-mile, round-trip Guadalupe Peak Trail to explore it up close. 

25.  The Turkey Hill Wilderness

Eastern Texas’ Turkey Hill Wilderness in Angelina National Forest may have a few noticeably steep slopes among its 5,536 acres, but it is generally accessible to everyone. Oddly, regardless of its name, this area is more of a home to snakes and deer than turkeys. The biggest attraction is iconic Turkey Hill which is approximately 298 feet above sea level.   

26.  The Desolation Canyon Wilderness

The distinctive Desolation Canyon is a great place to be for those into prehistoric cultures and geology. It spreads out over an area of 142,996 acres. It includes quite a number of deep canyons. Rock Creek is reportedly over a mile deep. This is a great place for whitewater rafting. Check out the 84-mile section of the mighty Green River which rushes through both Gray and Desolation canyons. 

27.  The Buckhorn Wilderness

Are you going to the Olympic National Forest in Washington? Be sure to explore at least part of the 44,270 acres of the Buckhorn Wilderness in the forest’s northeastern corner. The northern section of the area features forested lowlands and mountains. The larger southern portion has alpine meadows and glacier-carved valleys. Take the picturesque Marmot Pass!

28.  The Cranberry Wilderness

Hikers will love this wilderness area in West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest. This 47,742-acre area in Webster and Pocahontas Counties is reported to be “prime hiking territory” for backpackers and hikers who enjoy exploring the deep woods. The valleys are steep, and the wide mountains are between 2,400 and 4,700 feet tall.

29.  The Blackjack Springs Wilderness

The Blackjack Springs Wilderness in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in northeastern Wisconsin spans an area of 5,912 acres. Close to the Canadian border, it is highlighted by the well-known Whispering Lake which reflects the surrounding forest. Here you can hike trails running along abandoned railroad grades and logging roads that harken back to the early 1900s.

30.  The Washakie Wilderness

This wilderness in Wyoming’s Shoshone National Forest was named in honor of Chief Washakie, a major figure in the Shoshone tribe. It includes 704,274 acres in the Absaroka Mountains and is highlighted by buttes, petrified forests, steplike cliffs, and volcanic-layered valleys. If you hike here, beware of wolves, mountain lions, and bears.

31.  The Frank Church-River Of No Return Wilderness

Last but not least, is this wilderness area in Idaho’s Salmon-Challis National Forest. This 2,358,886-acre area spans six national forests and two official Primitive Areas. Here you can explore the Salmon River Mountains, go jet-boating or rafting on two white-water rivers, go hiking, and horseback riding.

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Have you always wanted to hit the beach on the shining shores of the California Coast? If so, check out these Pacific Coast pads for rent, from Washington’s Whidbey Island to sunny San Diego. Here are 20 excellent West Coast beach houses you can rent.  

20 Excellent West Coast Beach Houses You Can Rent

1.  Westport Ocean Oasis, Westport, Washington

When you hear the phrase “West Coast beach” you might not immediately think of Washington state. Still, this vacation rental for up to four people could very well change that. It is a single bedroom, one-bathroom, pet-friendly apartment. Here you will enjoy sweeping views of the shining shore thanks to its large windows. Other amenities include a television, a putting green, a basketball court, and a balcony.

2.  Oceanfront Condo, San Diego, California

This condo rental, remodeled in 2019, is situated on the 10th story of an exceptional oceanfront skyscraper. It has two bathrooms, two bedrooms and can sleep up to six guests. It features three televisions complete with both Roku and DVD players, modern stainless-steel appliances, and convenient blackout blinds in all the sleeping spaces. Take in memorable ocean views from the master bedroom, dining area, main living room, and even the kitchen. Guests also have access to a rooftop area with lounge seats and grills. There’s also a hot tub and heated pool on the ground floor.

3.  Cannon Beach House, Arch Cape, Oregon

This three-bath, four-bedroom rental has both a main house and a guest house so it can accommodate up to 10 guests. The furnishings and fixtures here are quite colorful in contrast to the white walls and warm woods. Amenities include a dedicated workspace, games, and toys for the kids, heated tile floors, an indoor fireplace, an outdoor deck, railhead showers, and a television with a gaming console. 

4.  A Family-Friendly Beach House, Westport, Washington

This modern rental sleeps six. It has three stylish bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. Amenities include a fireplace, a genuine gourmet kitchen, a hot tub, and, of course, incredible ocean views. Into hiking? This beach house also has convenient, easy access to the popular Westport Oceanfront Trail that leads right to the water.

5.  A Secluded Oceanfront House, Charleston, Oregon

If you’d like a beach getaway free of tourist towns and tourists, this dog-friendly rental is in the Oregon Bay Area’s least populated community. It sleeps six, has two bathrooms and two bedrooms. It has private beach access and romantic views. You can enjoy its proximity to several parks and go biking, birdwatching, and hiking. Amenities here include three televisions with numerous movies, various games, Wi-Fi, and a laundry room.

6.  Luxe Beachfront House, Newport, Oregon

Also known as The Sea Pearl, this contemporary vacation rental offers guests a little more luxury. It includes four bedrooms, and three bathrooms, and sleeps 10. The rental has beach essentials, a grill, and a deck. Here you can also enjoy semi-private access to the beach, sealife, and tide pools. Amenities here include a dedicated workspace, cable TV, a stocked kitchen, and a washer and dryer.

7.  Malibu “Mermaid” Apartment, Malibu, California

Looking to experience Malibu at more affordable prices? This rental apartment sleeps up to four people. It has one bedroom and one bathroom. It’s earned the Airbnb Plus label for its ocean views and cute furnishings. It’s a family-friendly place complete with modern amenities such as a highchair, a Pack ‘n’ Play, and children’s books and toys too. 

8.  Beachfront Bungalow, Oxnard, California

This colorful rental sleeps up to 10 guests and is conveniently located near Ojai, Santa Barbara, and Ventura. This beach bungalow features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a great gourmet kitchen complete with a six-burner Viking stove, and a garage that contains bicycles, boogie boards, a canopy, and chairs. Less than two miles away you will find the popular Seabridge Center’s shops and restaurants as well.

9.  Studio Beach House, Rancho Palos Verdes, California

You’ll find this beach house just west of lively Long Beach. It can sleep up to four guests and offers guests easy beach access and amazing views. Amenities here include both basketball and tennis courts, a hot tub, a mini-fridge, an outdoor bar with 50-inch TV and surround sound, palapas equipped with fire pits, and a playground. Visit the nearby Portuguese Bend Reserve too.    

10.  Northern Oregon Beachfront Condo, Lincoln City, Oregon

This airy two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental sleeps four. Here you can enjoy beautiful beach and ocean views via its great floor-to-ceiling windows. This condo was recently remodeled. It includes an expansive deck, new bathrooms, and a new kitchen. Amenities here include a hot tub, a convenient in-unit washer and dryer, and a TV.

11.  The Hermosa Beach Mansion, Hermosa Beach, California

Here’s your chance for you and up to 10 or 11 of your friends or relatives to stay in an actual mansion in a laid-back Southern California beach town. It has five bedrooms and five bathrooms so you can split the costly price tag with others. You can enjoy the ocean views from a rooftop lounge and three balconies. Here you can hit the beach and play billiards too.

12.  Brookings Coastal Cabin, Brookings, Oregon

This rental sleeps eight and is roughly half a mile from the coast. This cabin has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a great deck, a real, wood-burning fireplace, and custom woodwork too. It has a rustic look and is close to the well-known Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. It’s a great place for biking, hiking, and even whale watching.

13.  Sandcastle Bluff In Moclips, Moclips, Washington

This attractive rental is nestled high atop a stark bluff and sleeps up to 10 guests. It has a nautical decor and provides scenic views of the ocean through its floor-to-ceiling windows. There are two primary suite bedrooms that also offer memorable views, and the dining room allows you to look out over the water while you dine. Stargaze from the outdoor hot tub at night too.

14.  Sunny Summerland Farmhouse, Santa Barbara, California

Situated in the Summerland section of Santa Barbara, this farmhouse has three bedrooms and sleeps as many as eight individuals. It’s a short walk to the beach and you’re close to local parks and wine tasting rooms too. The farmhouse features an expansive deck, a grill, an in-ground jacuzzi, a media room, an outdoor fire pit, a stone-covered fireplace, and striking ocean views. 

15.  Retro Beachfront Home, Gearhart, Oregon

This retro beachfront rental home is distinctively retro, owned by one family for over 60 years, and sleeps as many as 10 guests. Surrounded by a wraparound porch, the building has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a genuine wood-burning fireplace, and a nice path to the nearby beach.

16.  Multi-Family Seascape Lodge, Whidbey Island, Washington

Found in Puget Sound, amidst tranquil scenery and rugged terrain, this is a great place for a west coast oceanside getaway. This waterfront home sleeps up to nine guests. It’s not far from Useless Bay Golf & Country Club, distinctive Double Bluff Beach, and popular Downtown Freeland, which has numerous bars and restaurants. This rental property includes a sizable deck, grill, and lounge furniture, multiple fireplaces, and an indoor jacuzzi that actually overlooks Puget Sound.

17.  Dana Point Townhouse, Dana Point, California

You will find this townhouse on Capistrano Beach. It can accommodate as many as eight guests. There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a private balcony complete with an ocean view, and access to a private beach. There is also a grill, a cornhole game, and a sleeper sofa as well. If you’ve got your sea legs, go on a fishing trip here and catch yourself some dinner!

18.  Somervilles Escape, Newport, Oregon

Located right outside of Newport, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom rental sleeps as many as 12 and is about half a mile from Moolack Beach’s parking lot. It comes complete with a large lawn where you can work on your tan, play touch football, or kick around a soccer ball. You can also relax on the deck and enjoy the private hot tub. Additional amenities include six televisions, a cozy fireplace, and a well-stocked game room.

19.  Ocean Park Getaway, Ocean Park, Washington

If you enjoy the water and a quieter setting, this small-town getaway rental sleeps up to 10. Here on the lovely Long Beach Peninsula, this two-story structure is highlighted by six different bedrooms, three individual bathrooms, a great gourmet kitchen with two ovens, and a separate washer and dryer on each floor. Other amenities include a backyard fire pit, a warm living room fireplace, and an assortment of family-friendly games. The beach is only two blocks away too.

20.  Three-Bedroom Beach House, Oceano, California

Discover this noteworthy three-bedroom beachfront rental home in Oceano. It can accommodate as many as eight people at once. You can enjoy the incredible views of the ocean while eating in the open kitchen. After a day at the beach, swimming, tanning, and even dolphin spotting, you can rinse off at the home’s outdoor shower before dinner. If you need more, take a short drive up the famous Pacific Coast Highway to the Monarch Butterfly Grove and Pismo Beach.

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If you need to get out into the wild, visiting a lake resort is one of the best ways to do it. Whether you’re looking for fall foliage, a winter escape, or a simple summer trip, there are plenty of lakefront hotels that will welcome you. So without further ado, here are 14 of the best lakefront hotels in the USA.

15 Best Lakefront Hotels in the U.S.A.

1 The Point, New York

The Point is found on a verdant, forested peninsula that overlooks Upper Saranac Lake. Some have called it a “playground for Adirondack adventure.” It features lovely log cabins that once actually hosted the Rockefellers.  

They include “traditional rustic-chic décor,” comfy-cozy fireplaces, and real white-pine walls. Here you can hike the local trails, take a popular vintage Elco boat ride on the lake, or try one of the other seasonally appropriate activities available there. At dinner time, you can eat a meal in the Great Hall, The Pub, or even in your own room.  

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Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, Alaska

Located on the scenic shore of Judd Lake, Tordrillo Mountain Lodge is the place to stay. It will provide you with a genuine wilderness escape that is less than a one-hour flight out of Anchorage. Here guests can schedule their own activity schedule.

Thus, their experience at this lodge is personal. Optional activity choices include eFoil boarding, mountain biking, and wake surfing. There are also heli-based excursions for skiing, glacier-trekking, and more. You can even board an otter plane and go flight-seeing to Katmai National Park for bear-viewing. The best accommodations here are private cabins with personal decks and floor-to-ceiling windows too.

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The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe, Nevada

The Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe in Stateline brings to mind mental images of azure water nestled amidst snow-topped mountains. The lodge provides guests with a front-row view of languorous Lake Tahoe and a nice, private beach. The decor includes distinctive accents of its wilderness locale. Note, for example, the trees hand-carved into the structure’s stone walls.

It also includes muted tones, a contemporary design, and a specific emphasis on natural light. Highlights include a year-round outdoor pool close to the waterfront, where you can relax on Adirondack chairs lining the beach. Visit in the summer and golf the18-hole course designed by George and Tom Fazio. Visit in the winter and go skiing just moments away.

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The Sagamore, New York

The Sagamore Resort in Bolton Landing is unlike all the other resorts in the Adirondacks. Nestled upon its own island within Lake George itself, it features iconic architecture and its own pool. It’s a family-friendly, historic property that offers several waterfront activities including fishing and swimming with or without an on-duty lifeguard.

The hotel also owns a 72-foot yacht christened The Morgan. You can take a complimentary hour-long excursion twice a day. If you choose to stay more than a couple of nights, book the four-bedroom First House, once the home of the original innkeeper. It’s even got a fireplace! 

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Lake Austin Spa Resort, Texas

The Lake Austin Spa Resort is a 40-room boutique hotel for travelers seeking a fun lakeside escape complete with those seeking a wellness weekend. This popular 25,000-square-foot spa offers several fitness and water-based activities hourly. The “Fresh Air Fitness” programs most recently added weighted-vest workouts and floating yoga by the lake. Most of the rooms are decorated with floral prints, stripes, and warm colors.

They include private front porches, and often private gardens, and views of the lake and the surrounding maples, oaks, and sycamores too.

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The Lake House on Canandaigua, New York

Situated on Lake Canandaigua in the Finger Lakes, The Lake House on Canandaigua has 125 rooms and is recommended for a weekend or even more. It’s owned by the brother-sister business Brooklyn Home Company which redesigned numerous New York beautiful, highly valued brownstones. The resort is highlighted with sculptural chandeliers and hand-crafted hardwood beds and a spa. Here you can go fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even take one of the captained sunset cruises.    

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The Lodge at Moosehead Lake, Maine

The Lodge at Moosehead Lake is high on a hill in Greenville, above the state’s largest lake. Backed by massive mountains, this bed-and-breakfast-style resort includes nine uniquely designed rooms and suites. Eight of the lodge’s rooms offer views of Moosehead Lake, and most of them have private decks. This inn also offers “moose safaris” in the area. Expert guides lead guests deep into the forests of Maine in search of moose. They also offer moonlight canoe trips and pontoon rides.

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Basin Harbor, Vermont

Opened in the 1880s, Basin Harbor in Vergennes is nestled near a little cove on Lake Champlain’s southeastern shore. Less than an hour’s drive out of Burlington, veteran visitors say this family-friendly getaway is “a veritable village.” It includes 74 private cottages with their own individualistic designs and floor plans.

Cornell Cottage and the Loon Lodge provide the most privacy because they’re furthest away from all the others. You can grab some Basin Harbor-cue from the onsite food truck or dine at the sushi bar on the lodge deck. Here you can enjoy a number of different activities including biking, golf, tennis, and volleyball. If you enjoy watersports, hit the lake and partake in boating, tubing, or wakesurfing.

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Winterlake Lodge, Alaska

The Winterlake Lodge is located amongst 1,000,000 pristine state-protected acres less than 20 miles away from popular Denali National Park. It is said by some travel journalists to be one of the top wilderness lodges in the state. The lodge can accommodate a total of 20 guests at once in six separate wooden cabins.

The cabins include simple but comfortable furnishings. Some also have private decks. The lodge offers guests all the expected activities including fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. If you book a cabin for at least three nights, you also get a complimentary helicopter-based excursion for glacier-trekking, ice climbing, or even to visit the dog-mushing school located on a neighboring mountain glacier.

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Lake Kora, New York

Travel to Raquette Lake, at the very end of a secluded two-mile gravel road deep in the Adirondacks. It is here you will find the ultra-private resort known as Lake Kora. Specializing in takeovers, this was the “great camp” of New York Lieutenant Governor Timothy Woodruff sometime in the 1800s.

Today it’s great for multigenerational family gatherings. Through the month of October, it is open to parties of between 13 and 35 guests. You can choose from “loft-style cabins” to a small three-bedroom building nestled on its own isle that’s only accessible by boat. The resort’s cooking staff provides customized meals too.

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Migis Lodge, Maine

Visit Lake Sebago and experience a stay at the beloved family retreat known as Migis Lodge. Found on the shore of Sebago Lake, this resort for rustic relaxation opened its doors in 1916. Migis Lodge includes almost 135 acres of verdant pine woodlands and 3,500 feet of noteworthy shoreline.

This is an exceptional place for groups. It offers 35 different cottages that vary in size from small studios to six-bedroom houses. This is an all-inclusive resort that serves meals al fresco at Cookout Point, inside the large main lodge, or even on an intimate private isle.  

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Lake Placid Lodge, New York

This rustic Adirondack lodge sits atop a slight slope just above famous Lake Placid in the lofty High Peaks region. It has a distinct Craftsman-style aesthetic—plenty of pine and stone—complete with family-friendly, laid-back luxury. From here you can take some of the best hiking trails in the Northeast. Here you can go kayaking, swimming, and engage in other favored watersports. If that’s too athletic for you, you can always kick back on one of the dock’s sturdy Adirondack chairs.

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Grand Hotel Mackinac Island, Michigan

The renowned Grand Hotel is located on Mackinac Island in Lake Huron, close to Lake Michigan. Open since 1887, it retains a Gilded Age vibe to families looking for family-friendly summer vacation accommodations. Its well-known front porch stretches for almost 700 feet and adds an air of gentility.

The resort offers such traditional activities as horseback riding, lawn games, and tennis. The rooms and suites are individually designed with pleasantly bright colors and fanciful fairytale bedding, and there’s even a popular 220-foot-long serpentine-shaped pool. If you like West Virginia’s Greenbrier, you’ll like this place too.

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The Chatwal Lodge, New York 

The Chatwal Lodge opens to the public on April 1st. It is ensconced in Bethel, in The Chapin Estate on 30 acres of protected land roughly 90 miles out of New York City. You’ll have your choice of 11 different suites complete with arched windows, reclaimed wood walls, vaulted ceilings, and private patios or lovely lakeside decks.

Looking for more adventurous accommodations? Book the 850-square-foot tent suite that completes with a wonderful wraparound veranda. You can also book a unique 1,000-square-foot treehouse that towers 25 feet above the ground. Go fly-fishing, horseback riding, fly fishing, and kayaking. Relax with an Ayurvedic spa treatment, meditate, dine at the farm-to-table restaurant, and sample something from the wine cellar too.

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Ross Lake Resort, Washington

Ross Lake Resort offers you different experiences boat, fish, hike among dense evergreen forests, or camp surrounded by nature in the backcountry you can plan an enjoyable, safe, and memorable visit to Ross Lake for unbelievable adventure in these floating cabins

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Hopefully, you’ve already read about some of these popular locations in previously published pieces. This article will provide you with insight as to what to see first once you arrive. This is about Mother Nature’s best work in the US. So, without further ado, we present the most stunning natural wonders in the USA.

Most Stunning Natural Wonders In The USA

1.  Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park’s most well-known hot spring is the Grand Prismatic Spring in the Midway Geyser Basin. It has a stunning blue center surrounded by rings of green, yellow, and rusty orange. It looks practically otherworldly. You can take in its shape from the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.

2.  Caddo Lake, Texas and Louisiana

One of the more mysterious natural wonders here, Caddo Lake is situated on the border between Texas and Louisiana. Spanish moss practically drips from the crooked limbs of the cypress trees, their knotted trunks submerged in the dark depths of this network of bayous and marshes.  

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3.  Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

The gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains, a.k.a. The Smokies span an area along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. Be sure to see Clingmans Dome. At a height of 6,643 feet, it’s the highest point on the Appalachian Trail.  

4.  Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Antelope Canyon is divided into two areas. They are known as The Corkscrew and The Crack. You can only explore these stunning slot canyons with a tour with a native Navajo guide. This canyon was created long ago by furious flash flooding during monsoon season.    

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5.  Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

The huge Hubbard Glacier is 400 feet tall and six miles wide. Found off the coast of Yakutat in the eastern area of Alaska, this gargantuan glacier is probably the state’s most impressive landform. It’s different from most glaciers, it isn’t retreating but advancing through the water.

6.  Cadillac Mountain, Maine

This stunning mountain is one of the main attractions of Acadia National Park. Found along the rugged North Atlantic seaboard, it stands 1,530 feet above sea level. From October 7th through March 6th this granite mountain is the first place the entire country sees the sunrise.   

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7.  The Garden of the Gods, Colorado

Nestled deep in Colorado Springs, this is a popular National Natural Landmark. It is known for its tall, towering rock formations of pink, red, and white sandstone and limestone. Here you can interactively learn about the origins of these individualistic rock formations.  

8.  Logan Pass, Montana

Located in Glacier National Park along the famous Continental Divide, Logan Pass arguably best represents the park’s beauty. Hike through the striking natural beauty here.This is reportedly the highest point along the gorgeous Going-to-the-Sun Road – the scenic road winding through the famous Rocky Mountains.

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9.  Fly Geyser, Nevada

Fly Geyser in the Black Rock Desert is quite colorful. Back in the 1960s, a geothermal energy company was drilling in search of a power source. The water they struck was not hot enough and they failed to seal off the opening correctly. Thus, the geyser spews steam and water to this day.

10.  Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake is the deepest in the US. At its deepest point, it is 1,943 feet deep. Located in Crater Lake National Park, it was formed roughly 8,000 years ago when the volcanic Mount Mazama erupted and created a caldera that was very slowly filled with rainwater and snowmelt.   

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11.  White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

Located in the Tularosa Basin, White Sands National Monument is a 275 square mile desert of gypsum sand. It’s the planet’s largest gypsum dune field. Gypsum is a rare mineral that dissolves in water, but it thrives in this dry climate.  

12.  The Everglades, Florida

The oft’times mysterious Everglades is a large subtropical wilderness of wetlands located in southern Florida. The Everglades National Park is but a small part of this place. Visit during the dry season between November and April. There are fewer mosquitos, and the temperature is lower.

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13.  The Hamilton Pool Preserve, Texas

The best time to visit this beautiful natural swimming hole is in the summer. You’ll find it 20 miles west of Austin. This pool used to be underground ‘til the limestone roof above it fell. The pool is fed by a 50-foot waterfall.

14.  Monument Valley, Arizona, and Utah

Tranquil, majestic Monument Valley is actually ensconced in the Navajo Nation on the border of Utah and Arizona. Take in the sight of the sandstone buttes towering as high as 1,000 feet above the desolate desert floor. Enjoy a Navajo-guided tour.

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15.  Spire Cove, Alaska

Spectacular Spire Cove can be found within popular Kenai Fjords National Park. The scenery here is unlike that of any other place in the world. Head to Resurrection Bay and go kayaking here in this stunning cove. See the rocks and glaciers rising from the blue water.

16.  Yosemite Valley, California

This great glacial valley is located in famous Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Highlights here include such high granite summits as El Capitan and Half Dome. From the favored Tunnel View viewpoint, you can see the lush forests, rugged cliffs, and more. 

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17.  The Mendenhall Glacier Ice Caves, Alaska

These ice caves are situated more than 12 miles out of the state capital Juneau. Carved deep through the12-mile massive Mendenhall Glacier, these cool blue, ethereal ice caves are difficult to reach. Hikers must cross an ice field and scramble over slippery rocks too.

18.  Redwoods, California

The imposing redwoods can be found in the Redwood National and State Parks. The famous General Sherman in the Giant Forest in popular Sequoia National Park is over 2,000 years old. Another impressive tree is the 600-year-old Hyperion. It’s the planet’s tallest living tree and stands over 380 feet tall.

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19.  Star Dune, Colorado

This great golden sand dune is one of the main attractions in the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.  These protected sand dunes are reportedly the tallest on the continent. They reach heights of over 740 feet. Star Dune is the tallest at 741 feet.  

20.  Niagara Falls, New York 

Niagara Falls is not the highest or the largest waterfall on Earth, but it’s the most famous. Located in New York State near Buffalo, three thunderous cascades of water splash across the border into Canada. The water here has a distinctive blue-green tint.   

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21.  The Narrows, Utah

This is a well-known area in Zion National Park. If you’re a hiker, you must take the popular trail up the Virgin River through the slot canyon and experience the Narrows in person. It’s a unique 16-mile trek that may include some wading.  

22.  Ruby Beach, Washington

Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park in Washington state is said by some to be one of America’s prettiest beaches. It’s named for the ruby-reminiscent crystals in the beach sand there. Surrounded by a “Jurassic Park-like forest”, it comes complete with sea stacks and weathered driftwood. 

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23.  Shoshone Falls, Idaho

Located in Twin Falls, on the Snake River, is known as “the Niagara of the West.” This must-see stunning natural wonder attraction is 212 feet tall. The water thunders down over a rim that’s almost 1,000 feet wide. See them in the spring.

24.  Grand Teton, Wyoming

The 13,775-foot Grand Teton Mountain is the highest one in the entire Grand Teton National Park. It’s a welcome, unspoiled natural wonder. Part of the Teton mountains, it’s also one of the most popular American mountaineering destinations. Visit in the winter.

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25.  The Painted Hills, Oregon

The Painted Hills are one of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument archeological sites. These color-drenched hills are a lot like China’s Rainbow Mountains. The distinguishing black, orange, red and yellow colors are actually a result of ages-old volcanic activity. 

26.  Mount Rainier, Washington

Mount Rainier is a part of the colossal Cascade Range in Mount Rainier National Park less than 59 miles out of Seattle. Technically, this large, 14,410-foot-tall mountain is actually an active stratovolcano. No worries though, as it’s not erupted since the late 1800s. 

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27.  Joshua Trees, California

These unusual, spunky-looking trees can be found only in Joshua Tree National Park. Their shocks of prickly spines and spindly trunks not only make them a frequent source of curiosity, but they are also recognized as an important part of the Mojave Desert’s ecosystem. 

28.  Bryce Canyon, Utah

Bryce Canyon is unsurprisingly the main attraction of Bryce Canyon National Park. Undoubtedly its most individualistic characteristic is the towering rock spires nicknamed “hoodoos.” Almost aglow with shades of orange, red, and yellow, they give this canyon a surrealistic atmosphere. Tour it on horseback.

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29.  Wonder Lake, Alaska

Visit this natural wonder in Denali National Park and Preserve. Also known as Deenaalee Bene’, this lovely lake is said to be one of the most beautiful in the entire park. It was created by multiple retreating glaciers and perfectly frames Denali Mountain. 

30.  Burns Basin, South Dakota

Burns Basin is situated within the more than 244,000 acres that make up stunning Badlands National Park. Here you will discover prairies and peaks where bison and bighorn sheep live free amidst this interesting, rugged, natural landscape. Hike The Door Trail! 

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31.  Multnomah Falls, Oregon

Just a half-hour drive away from Portland, this two-tiered waterfall towers 611 feet above the craggy bluffs. Here in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, the blue water collects in a deep pool at the base of the falls.     

32.  Luray Caverns, Virginia

The otherworldly Luray Caverns are ensconced in the Blue Ridge Mountains. They’re reported to be “the most extensive” caverns in the eastern US. The ancient sand-tinted stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years and the meandering tunnels lead to large, echoing chambers. 

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33.  Alvord Desert, Oregon

Reminiscent of the Atacama Desert in Chile, this stark mountain-fringed landscape is nestled in the Pacific Northwest. It is an arid lakebed that receives less than seven inches of rain annually. The dry, cracked earth is dotted with several natural springs.

34.  Devils Tower, Wyoming

You really can’t miss Devils Tower. This rock towers 1,267 feet into the sky. It’s a sacred site to over 25 different Native American tribes. You probably recognize it from the classic Steven Spielberg sci-fi movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

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35.  Kīlauea, Hawaii

Situated in stunning Volcanoes National Park, this is one of the planet’s most active volcanoes. Perhaps the best way to get a look at the volcano and the other sights here in the park is to take the convenient 11-mile Crater Rim Drive route.

36.  Turnip Rock, Michigan

For a comparatively little geological formation, this peculiar rock can leave a big impression. You’ll find it nestled in the shallow water near the shore of Lake Huron. Its shape is the result of powerful waves striking and eroding the lower sections.

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37.  Palouse Falls, Washington

Found in southeastern Washington, this 200-foot-high waterfall crashes down into the Palouse River. It was formed in the Ice Age by floods. Look at this natural wonder from just the right angle and the water appears to be coming out of the very rocks.

38.  The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Regular readers know the stunning red rust Grand Canyon is one of the well-known Seven Wonders of the World. It’s approximately 70 million years old and opens into a gorge that’s 18 miles wide. It spans an astonishing distance of 277 miles. 

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39.  The Delicate Arch, Utah

The Delicate Arch can be found in the Arches National Park. This famous 52-foot freestanding natural arch is the most popular here. Take the 1.5-mile hiking trail to the famous formation and see it up close.

40.  Crater Lake, Colorado

Some say stunning Crater Lake in Crater Lake National Park is one of the prettiest lakes in the world. Over 7,000 years ago an active volcano in the area erupted and then slowly collapsed on itself leaving this giant punch bowl-shaped blue lake.

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Holy cliff-hanger, Batman! Climb to dizzying heights and live life on the edge here in these incredible places. Without further ado, here are the most stunning clifftop towns in the world.

The Most Stunning Clifftop Towns In The World

1.  Avalon, USA

Avalon is a city situated on Santa Catalina Island, in the California Channel Islands. It is southeast of Channel island. Here, homes cling to a rather steep hillside that wraps ‘round the harbor. No normal motor vehicles are permitted on the steep street here, so many residents ride in mini-golf carts. Some of the highlights here include hiking trails, sunny beaches, and oceanside bars.

2.  Gordes, France

This commune is reportedly built into the rock face in the Monts de Vaucluse range. It is perhaps one of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region’s prettiest hilltop towns. It comes complete with pastel-colored, terracotta-roofed residences, and narrow streets that snake their way up to a majestic medieval castle. The views of the Luberon massif and rolling fields below are quite memorable. Don’t miss the weekly market.

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3.  Taormina, Italy

This Sicilian seaside town appears precariously perched high up above the shining Ionian Sea. It’s backdropped by massive Mount Etna. Here you can stroll steep medieval streets to pretty piazzas to take in wonderful views of the volcano and sea. Stop by the awesome ancient Greek theater carved out of the local hillside, and the historic ruins of the interesting 15th-century Saracen castle too.

4.  Monemvasia, Greece

You will find this fairy-tale-like town and medieval rock fortress off a causeway of the Peloponnese. Nicknamed “the Gibraltar of Greece,” the natural, rugged rock fortress here has been someone’s home since the 500s. Historically, this place has been under both Byzantine and Venetian rule. At present, there are an unusual number of different monasteries and churches to see. 

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5.  Positano, Italy

The nigh-iconic village of Positano on the attractive Amalfi coastline appears to have almost tumbled neatly down the precipitous hillside. This colorful cliffside community was founded back in the 9th century. It has witnessed some tumultuous times, such as pirate attacks and a terrible tsunami in the 14th century. Today it is a rather elegant resort complete with steep, automobile-free streets, and sometimes pricey boutiques, art galleries, and assorted eateries.

6.  Azenhas do Mar, Portugal

Not far from the town of Sintra, is the seaside village of Azenhas do Mar. Balanced on a cliff above the Atlantic Ocean, it was once the home of several sea-powered water mills. Currently, it’s a quaint coastal escape complete with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. Be sure to see the sandy coves and numerous natural rock pools. Sample the local fresh seafood too.

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7.  Port Isaac, England

A traditional fishing village, picturesque Port Isaac, is situated on Cornwall’s craggy cliffs. Here you will see a hillside sturdily stacked with whitewashed cottages and narrow streets and small boats in the harbor. Be sure to sample the fresh fish, lobster, and crab still hauled into shore today. Viewers of the TV shows “Doc Martin” and “Poldark” will undoubtedly recognize the place.

8.  Ronda, Spain

The Moorish mountaintop village of Ronda is located in the city of Málaga, in Andalusia. It is a white village, or pueblos blancos, ensconced over the El Tajo gorge. How’d you like to cross the Puente Nuevo bridge straddling the deep chasm? It dates back to the 1700s. Visit the Cuenca Gardens then dine on a restaurant terrace overlooking the 120-meter-deep ravine below you.

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9.  Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, France

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a medieval village high atop a limestone cliff roughly 91 meters above the rushing River Lot. The village’s flower-filled squares, long and winding alleys, and higgledy-piggledy houses, some erected back in the 1200s, make it quite charming. Visit the medieval castle ruins. From there you can see the locks, mills, and towpath too. It’s a great place for hikers and bikers.

10.  Constantine, Algeria

You’ll discover gravity-defying Constantine on the rugged cliffs above the mighty Rhumel river. Named after Constantine the Great it’s known to many as “the City of Bridges”, it has four bridges across the gorge. Some travel writers say that the Sidi M’Cid suspension bridge is the most famous.

Opened in 1912, It’s the world’s highest suspension bridge. The rugged plateau serves as a natural fortress. First occupied during Neolithic times, it was once a well-known Roman settlement. 

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11.  Monsanto, Portugal

The ancient, one-of-a-kind Portuguese village of Monsanto was erected around and even into a granite boulder-filled hillside found in the striking Beira province. If you visit some of the homes here, you will discover that they are situated underneath, on top, and even between the huge rocks. In some cases, the boulders serve as floors, walls, and even ceilings, and cobbled alleys wind between them.

12.  Haid Al-Jazil, Yemen

Suspended high over the desolate, remote Wadi Dawan in well-known Yemen’s Desert Valley, atop a giant boulder is the little village of Haid Al-Jazil. The buildings here are constructed out of mud bricks and some are 11 stories high. Some of them are more than 500 years old so they require regular maintenance. When it rains, the resident farmers move their goats to the valley to graze. 

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13.  Sant’Agata de’ Goti, Italy

This ages-old town is located above the mighty Martorano River in the Campania region. Founded by the ancient Samnites, one side of the village is bordered by the gorgeous gorge’s impregnable walls. It was also settled by the Goths and the Romans. Currently, the traditional town is home to old churches, a Norman castle, and shops where you can buy local wines, olive oil, and apples.

14.  Guoliang Village, China

This remote, little village clings to a cliff found in the magnificent Taihang Mountains in Henan Province. With just a few hundred residents, no one questioned that you could only get there by walking up 720 steps carved into the face of the rock. It wasn’t until 1972 that 13 locals chiseled a 1.6-kilometer tunnel through the rock and created a road to the village.

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15.  Fira, Greece

Fira is the capital of the Greek isle of Santorini. This chi-chi town is fairly famous for its blue-domed churches and pristine whitewashed homes that seemingly tumble down the cliffs circling the blue water of the volcanic crater. Stay in one of the hotels carved into the rock. Stroll along the clifftop footpath to neighboring Oia and see the sunset over the Aegean.

16.  Jezzine, Lebanon

Also called “the City of Falls”, Jezzine is nicknamed after the waterfalls which drop down the cliff into the valley below. This town sits atop a huge rough outcropping 40 meters above the well-known Wadi Jezzine. Highlights of this place include historic churches and manses, a bustling bazaar, and a noteworthy rest stop for hikers along the popular Lebanon Mountain Trail.

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17.  Leh, India

Leh is the capital of Ladakh. It is also one of the world’s “highest permanently inhabited towns.” Leh’s Old Town is crowned by a royal palace and overlooked by a steep rugged ridge. The palace was constructed during the 1500s. It is nine stories tall and its roof provides visitors with noteworthy views of the local buildings, the snow-sprinkled Himalayas, and more.

18.  Cuenca, Spain

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Cuenca is in Castile La Mancha. The Moors built this place in the 1100s. It is found high over the great gorges of the Júcar and Huécar rivers. Every year thousands of travelers come to this place to check out the Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Houses, precariously positioned over the cliffs here.

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19.  Rocamadour, France

The buildings here in Rocamadour, seem to be hanging onto the large limestone cliff that towers 457 meters above the stunning Alzou River canyon. There are old stone gateways at the foot of this little village where pilgrims and visitors begin their ascent up the 216-step Grand Staircase to a small square. This town is the home of the Sanctuary of the Black Virgin.

20.  Vieste, Italy

Vieste is nestled in Puglia. Indeed, Vieste is but one of the scenic settlements on the gorgeous Gargano Peninsula. It was built right on a limestone cliff that overlooks the Adriatic Sea. It is highlighted by an interesting medieval old town complete with whitewashed houses and little lanes. This clifftop town is bordered by some of the area’s most beautiful beaches too.

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21.  Castellfollit de la Roca, Spain

Castellfollit de la Roca rests upon a basalt crag over the river Fluvià. It is a medieval network of small squares and cobblestone streets in the often-ignored La Garrotxa area of Catalonia. One of its biggest attractions is the 13th-century church of Sant Salvador. The view from here is incredible. Its wild, volcanic landscape also makes it a fun place to go hiking.

22.  Petrovac, Montenegro

Flanked by pine trees and olive groves, this clifftop town by the sea is best known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water. Visit the Venetian citadel, the Castello Fortress, set on a cliff at the promenade’s northern end. Originally erected in the 1500s to ward off numerous pirates, today it provides visitors with stunning views across the sparkling bay.

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23.  Staithes, England

This little fishing village is located on the North Yorkshire coast ‘tween towering cliffs. This marvelous maze of old fisherman cottages and steep walkways is rich in torrid tales of smuggling and assorted seafaring. Captain Cook once worked in this famous fishing port. Explore the traditional fish and chip shops and traditional pubs, and go rock pooling on the beach too.

24.  Tenby, Wales

This is one of Pembrokeshire’s prettiest places, towering over the cliffs. This historic town was once a Norman settlement and a famous bathing spot during the Georgian era. Stroll along the promenade past the colorful Regency townhouses. Other highlights here include the castle and fort, and the harbor. Don’t miss the cliff-backed Castle Beach either.

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25.  Pazin, Croatia

This town is the capital of the Istria region. Visit Pazin’s popular cliff-perched castle. It’s the area’s biggest medieval fortress and now houses two museums including the intriguing Istrian Ethnographic Museum. Explore the caves and subterranean passages here or go zip-lining over the awesome abyss created by the rushing Pazinčica River.

26.  Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

This is one of the country’s oldest towns. The town was constructed across a trio of rocky, rugged hills high above the Yantra River. Here you will find cobblestone streets and attractive, old architecture. Be sure to hop on the cable car and go visit the stone-walled medieval Tsarevets Fortress on Trapezitsa Hill too.

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27.  Manarola, Italy

Manarola is but one of the five vertiginous villages of Liguria’s scintillating Cinque Terra. Here the pretty pastel homes are surrounded by attractive terraced vineyards. Hike the hills here, stroll along the harbor, and go swimming or even sailing in the coves. Check out the view from the popular Punta Bonfiglio as well.

28.  Alcalá del Júcar, Spain

This is but one of the vertiginous villages found in the province of Albacete. It was carved from the deep limestone cliffs of the gorge and includes many different underground tunnels to be explored. The main attraction is the famous 15th-century castle. It comes complete with an Instagramble bridge that has its roots in Roman times.

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29.  Pitigliano, Italy

Pitigliano, in Tuscany, seems to rise from a volcanic tufa ridge between Rome and Florence. People have lived here since the famed Bronze Age. An experienced eye will note the evidence of the town’s Roman and Etruscan past, as well as several different medieval structures. It also includes a Jewish community harking back to the 1300s complete with ancient baths and synagogue. There are also lots of caves and old underground tunnels here.

30.  Bonifacio, Corsica

Bonifacio is the oldest town in all of Corsica. Since approximately AD 830 it has been perched on the isle’s rough limestone cliffs. The homes here appear to be dangerously dangling over the sea as the water has been eroding the cliff base over the years. See the fortified old town, the pretty port, and–if you’re stout of heart–attempt to climb the steep 187-step Staircase of King Aragon Alfonso V which was carved into the cliff so long ago.

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Veteran visitors praise the Caribbean for its towering palm trees, white-sand beaches, and turquoise water. It’s a great place for families and honeymooners alike. Still, there are almost too many beautiful resorts to count. Thus, to help you narrow down your choices, here are 20 of the Caribbean’s most awesome hotel suites.

Most Awesome Caribbean Hotel Suites

1.  The Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa, Dominican Republic

The Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa in the Dominican Republic is highlighted by a noteworthy oceanfront Presidential Suite. It includes a dining area, a roomy living area, and an extra bathroom for any guests. There is also butler service, an in-room Jacuzzi, a rain shower, and even an outdoor area complete with an intimate, private whirlpool that makes this suite perfect for honeymoons and anniversaries. 

2.  Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Bahamas

The Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau contains a reportedly exclusive “hotel within a hotel” called The Reserve. Here you’ll find one-bedroom villas with fine linens, large bathrooms with a separate shower and tub, a dining area, a kitchen area, and outdoor space. You’re also very close to the beautiful beaches, and the Bahamas’ largest casino too. 

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3.  Sandals Royal Barbados, Barbados 

Sandals Royal Barbados is situated in the distinctive St. Lawrence Gap area. Book a beachfront Skypool Butler Suite. Your bedroom will include access to a private pool complete with an infinity edge. The hotel suites at this all-inclusive resort also have indoor dining areas, individual living areas, large terraces, or terrific “Tranquility Tubs for two.” Guest amenities also include personalized butler service.

4.  Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya, Mexico

Mexico’s Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya is known as a wellness resort. It includes a special “resort within a resort” named the Impression Club. Here you will find a total of nine different villa-style suites that come complete with a private chef, dedicated butler service, and a few upgraded amenities such as Bvlgari bath essentials and lovely Frette linens. The hotel suites also feature private, personal saltwater infinity pools and access to a secluded, private beach.

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5.  Four Seasons Resort Nevis, West Indies

The famous Four Seasons Resort Nevis in the West Indies. Here guests can stay in the exclusive Alexander Hamilton suite. (He was the isle’s most well-known former resident, after all.) In this superb suite, you will find a separate living area, dining area, and, of course, bedroom. There is also a luxurious, lovely marble bathroom and a big terrace that offers exceptional ocean views.

6.  Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa, Jamaica

The gorgeous Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa is another excellent all-inclusive resort. It is highlighted by a noteworthy three-bedroom Signature Residence that comes with a large outdoor terrace and even a personal infinity pool. It is a family-friendly suite that also includes a kitchenette, dining area, and living space.  

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7.  Le Toiny, St. Barths

The renowned Le Toiny located in St. Barts boasts one of the Caribbean’s most luxurious suites. It’s known as La Villa. This super suite features a pair of pavilions situated around a private pool. Here you will discover two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a dining room, a living room, and lots of additional living space. You can even park two cars right by the suite.  

8.  Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort, Mexico

Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort has garnered a reputation among travel critics as a “romantic couples resort.” Its prestigious Presidential Suite comes complete with its own extra-large private pool and personal whirlpool. The all-inclusive amenities also include fine linens, the highest quality spirits, international-praised gourmet meals, and a private butler to boot.

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9.  Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, USA

The Condado Vanderbilt Hotel in the US territory of Puerto Rico offers visitors an exceptional oceanfront Presidential Suite found atop the hotel’s towers. This super suite provides guests with memorable views of the stunning San Juan coastline. Other highlights here include a trio of bedrooms, a huge living room, and personal butler service. The impressive master bedroom features a comfy king-sized bed, a cozy, private balcony, and even a separate dressing area. 

10.  Azul Beach Resort Negril, Jamaica

Jamaica makes the list again with its attractive Azul Beach Resort Negril ensconced along striking Seven Mile Beach in naturally beautiful Negril. The top-of-the-line accommodations at this all-inclusive resort are the popular Royal Swim Up Suite. It includes an in-room mini-bar, private access to a calming river, and distinctive views of the ocean. Additionally, as part of the well-known Karisma resort brand, you will also be able to dine on some quality gourmet cuisine.

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11.  Moon Palace Jamaica, Jamaica

You could also stay at Jamaica’s all-inclusive resort named Moon Palace. The two-bedroom Presidential Suite is said to be “perfect” for groups and families. The suite includes an attractive private terrace with ample seating and outstanding views of the ocean as well.  

It also features a dining area, a bar with a mini-bar, and an Xbox 360 for the kids or group gamers. Veteran visitors say once you’re there, you just “won’t want to leave.” But that’s okay because the nightly rate even includes 24-hour room service.

12.  Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun, Mexico

Mexico makes the list yet again for its popular “adults-only romance resort named Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun. The famous oceanfront Presidential Suite here is reportedly “ideal” for any celebratory trip. It includes an individual bedroom, a private bathroom, a rainfall shower complete with massage body jets. There’s also a double Jacuzzi and a large deck offering guests incredible views of the sea.

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13.  Frangipani Beach Resort, Anguilla

Nestled on Mead’s Bay, the famous Frangipani Beach Resort has a new penthouse suite that you simply can’t miss. It spans an area of more than 3,000 square feet and is quite lavish. The exceptional accommodations include floor-to-ceiling windows, a memorable master bedroom, a cozy guest room with its own bathroom, both indoor and outdoor showers, and even a chef’s kitchen. 

14.  Jade Mountain, St. Lucia

Nigh majestic Jade Mountain is often included on many “world’s most luxurious resorts” lists. It is frequently praised for its stunning open-air, cliffside sanctuary rooms. The accommodations include striking views of the twin Piton Mountains and private infinity pools too. Of course, the very best of their hotel suites is the great Galaxy Infinity Pool Sanctuary. It features wonderful panoramic views of the star-filled night sky, a sizable outdoor living area, and an outstanding outdoor deck.

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15.  TRS Yucatan Hotel, Mexico

It’s back to Mexico for a relaxing stay at the TRS Yucatan Hotel. You will find this adults-only resort in Riviera Maya in the well-known Grand Palladium compound. This is quite a cozy place for couples looking for both privacy and luxury. Here your suite comes with an assortment of exceptional amenities such as the finest bedding, private butler service, a separate living area, a private pool, and even 24-hour room service.

16.  The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The happenin’ Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana offers a terrific two-bedroom “Rock Suite” that is just perfect for couples or families. This is an enormous suite that spans an area of 2,496 soiree feet, including the terrace. There are two bedrooms complete with their own bathrooms, a special selection of guitars for guests to play, personal assistant services, and the large terrace even includes a hot tub.

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17.  Iberostar Selection Cancun, Mexico

You will find the Iberostar Selection Cancun situated on one of Cancun’s prettiest beach fronts. This all-inclusive resort is a great place for couples, groups, and families too. Every oceanfront villa here comes complete with a large terrace with seating, and a number of them also include private “swim-out” pools. The luxurious Presidential Suite covers more than 3,700 square feet and includes two bedrooms. You can also stay on the popular adults-only Coral Level in a Junior Suite that has its own rooftop plunge pool.

18.  Quintessence, Anguilla

The Relais & Chateaux hotel known simply as Quintessence offers travelers a number of different great choices when it comes to hotel suites. There’s the Joseph Penthouse, which includes two king-size bedrooms with four-poster beds, 24/7 butler service, and a cozy private terrace with great views of the beaches. Book your stay this November and the hotel will donate part of the proceeds to a charity event.

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19.  Sandals South Coast, Jamaica

Ensconced in Whitehouse, the famous adults-only Sandals South Coast includes overwater bungalows that are both peaceful and private. The bungalows include custom-made king-size beds, see-through glass floors, personal sun decks, sun loungers, outdoor showers, and over-water hammocks. Guests also get butler service and airport transfers to and from this popular resort.

20.  The Hyatt Regency Aruba, Aruba

The Hyatt Regency Aruba is nestled along the shore of Palm Beach. If you want to enjoy the best views here, book your stay in the inspiring oceanfront Governor’s Suite. Compared to some hotel suites, this is huge. 

It stretches across 2,745 square feet. Here you will find a large master bedroom and bathroom, a kitchenette, a living space, and an additional half-bathroom. As a guest of the Hyatt, you will also have special Regency Club access and free run of the entire property.  

The post 20 of the Caribbean’s Most Awesome Hotel Suites appeared first on Add to Bucketlist , Vacation Deals.

If you’d like to have a romantic honeymoon in the US, then read on, fellow traveler. Here we provide a number of special spots for a number of different lovers’ locales from iconic to individualistic. Here then, are the 26 best honeymoon destinations in the USA.

Cozy US Honeymoon Hideaways 

1.  Nantucket, Massachusetts

There once was a groom from Nantucket, whose bride said: “Come here and just…”  Located off the coast of cozy Cape Cod, this idyllic island offers couples beautiful beaches and an adorable town as well. Rent bicycles and explore this classic romantic retreat. You can visit the whaling museum, the three charming lighthouses, and then enjoy an intimate lobster dinner for two too at the White Elephant or Brant Point Grill which overlooks the harbor.  

2.  A New England Road Trip

Turn your honeymoon into a really romantic road trip cruising through the charming towns of New England. Take in the assorted scenic sights of the rugged coastline, and lovely landscapes too. Enjoy intimate evenings in assorted bread & breakfasts In Vermont and Maine. See the White Mountains, and explore Acadia National Park. If you book an autumn wedding you can even take in the fantastic fall foliage.

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3.  Niagara Falls, New York

Experts agree, years ago Niagara Falls used to be “the place to be” for a honeymoon in North America. Nevertheless, it remains a romantic location and is still home to several romantic resorts. Mind you, it’s a good idea to take your passports and cross the border to the Canadian side too. With boat tours, hiking trails, and the Cave of the Winds there’s plenty to do on the American side too.

4.  Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

You can find this idyllic isle off Cape Cod’s southern coast. This charming New England island is a lot like Nantucket. It includes beautiful beaches, quaint, tiny towns, and lovely lighthouses too. Martha’s Vineyard, however, is actually larger in size and offers visitors a bit more to explore when not intimately ensconced in their exceptional accommodations. If you can afford it, veteran visitors suggest staying at the Harbor View Hotel or Mansion House.

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5.  Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is another honeymoon spot that’s quite cozy. Complete with awesome architecture, incredible oak trees, a relaxed atmosphere, and a distinctly delicious food scene, what more do you need? Stroll the town square hand-in-hand as duck into a museum, experience Forsyth Park, and explore the assorted eateries as you make plans for dinner. Looking for a beach getaway for some fun in the sun too? Check out Tybee Island which is right next door.

6.  Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, situated on the edge of the great Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is another fave for a romantic rendezvous. Conveniently located near the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, this is a great place for newly married couples who can’t decide on the city or the country. Its architecture and popular art and food scenes seemingly scream “city” but such action-filled activities as high adventure hiking and white water rafting cry out “country.” 

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7.  Charleston, South Carolina

This cozy coastal city is roughly two hours north of the city of Savannah. Charleston not only has a reportedly “celebrated food scene”, interesting architecture, and surprisingly exceptional beaches, it also has a long-standing history that harkens back to the American Revolutionary War. Unlike nearby Savannah, it has a unique coastal vibe due in part to its plethora of palm trees. It also has a sense of charm perfect for couples seeking a slow-moving, laid-back location.

Tropical US Honeymoon Destinations 

8.  Hawaii

Hawaii is not only a classic, iconic honeymoon destination, it’s also a tropical one. With multiple islands, there’s much to choose from here. If you’re into hiking, head to the island of Kauai.

On Maui, there’s the popular Road to Hana. Be sure to spend some time on The Big Island exploring the nigh otherworldly Volcanoes National Park. Finally, spend at least one evening taking in the sunset on Oahu’s iconic Waikiki Beach.

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9.  Puerto Rico

Here you can enjoy a cool Caribbean island without having to dig out your passport. Puerto Rico is just east of the distinctive Dominican Republic in the shining Caribbean Sea. It comes complete with a real rainforest, a stunning, rugged coastline, and the historic city of Old San Juan. If you’re looking for a beach retreat, be sure to visit the little island of Vieques. It’s a US territory, so your cell phone will work there too.  

10.  South Florida

From the Florida Keys to Miami, South Florida is a great place for a honeymoon. If you want a warm, sunny tropical honeymoon, the Keys have no shortage of beaches, palm trees, and pretty scenery. If you prefer a honeymoon with a metropolitan feel, Miami would be more to your liking. There you’ll find no shortage of nightclubs and exceptional eateries. Another excellent option is the water-lover’s favorite, Marco Island on the Gulf Coast west of Miami.

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Big US City Honeymoon Ideas

11.  New York City, New York

“The Big Apple” is another classic honeymoon spot. Here you can do some romantic rowing in a boat in Central Park, share a kiss at the very top of the iconic Empire State Building, enjoy intimate dinners as you explore the food scene, and more. It’s also a great place for theatre lovers, and museum hoppers too. Book a room at the LUMA Hotel or perhaps The Beekman.

12.  Las Vegas, Nevada

“Sin City” has long been known as a playground for adults, the place to go for a quickie wedding, and a honeymoon hot spot for those into bright lights and naughty nightlife. Indoors you’ll enjoy shows, shopping, concerts, drinking, and gambling. Outdoors you have pool parties and desert day trips. You can even hit a drive-through chapel and get married by Elvis and go home with great wedding pictures!

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13.  New Orleans, Louisiana

If you prefer to honeymoon where you can party in a truly unique city? Then this is the place! From a huge party scene in a historic environment to quirky museums and haunted accommodations, New Orleans has it all. Enjoy Mardi Gras, stroll through the Garden District, hit the jazz clubs, and don’t forget the beignets and gumbo either. This city of compliments and contradictions offers a fun and adventurous honeymoon location.

14.  Boston, Massachusetts 

History lovers will enjoy a honeymoon here amidst the beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets of historic Boston. Walk hand-in-hand along the famous Freedom Trail and learn about the Revolutionary War. You can stroll along the Harborwalk and the North End too. See the Boston Common and Public Gardens, catch a show, then dine in one of the city’s best restaurants. Into witches? Plan a day trip to Salem via train.

15.  Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is another prime candidate for a fun city honeymoon. It’s got something for both indoor lovers and outdoor lovers. Indoors you can explore one of the popular museums, hit a jazz club, or catch a comedy show.

Outdoor options include strolling through Millenium Park, where you’ll find Cloud Gate, a.k.a. “The Bean”, the famous Chicago Riverwalk, or an architecture river cruise. Don’t miss out on their famous deep-dish pizza either!

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US Outdoor Adventure Honeymoon Spots 

16.  National Parks, Arizona And Utah

If you’re truly set on a real outdoor adventure on your honeymoon, consider Arizona’s Grand Canyon, Utah’s memorable Mighty 5 National Parks, and the palace in between them. Highlights here include Antelope Canyon, the Wave, Horseshoe Bend, and the well-known slot canyons of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. The open-road aspect of this honeymoon adds a sense of adventure to your honeymoon (well beyond the bedroom.)

17.  Alaska

Looking for a cool place to chill on your honeymoon? Why not visit the largest state in the US? Here you will take in the sight of truly epic landscapes. Here you can go glacier hiking together near the city of Seward. You can also go whale watching, check out the scenery along the popular Alaska Railroad, and stroll through the distinctive Denali National Park as well.  

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18.  A Pacific Northwest Road Trip, Oregon and Washington

This is a great honeymoon idea for any couple into exploring the open road together. You can even make a stop or two to see an inland attraction like Crater Lake. Other honeymoon highlights include Olympic Peninsula, North Cascades National Park, and such cities as Seattle and Portland. There are also little towns like Manzanita, and Leavenworth, the hot springs, waterfalls, and wine country.

19.  Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is nestled amidst majestic mountain landscapes. This ski resort town offers some luxurious accommodations and is also not too far from two of the country’s most popular national parks: Grand Tetons and Yellowstone. So you can ski all day and engage in more intimate action in total luxury at night. If you don’t want to use Jackson Hole for your base, reserve part of your honeymoon for trips to both of the previously-mentioned parks.  

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Lowkey US Honeymoon Hideaways

20.Sanibel Island, Florida

You’ll find Sanibel Island in southwest Florida, in a place that feels far from busy Miami. This romantic retreat is a cozy place complete with beautiful beaches, a charming lighthouse, and a relaxed vibe. If you want a pinch of excitement in this honeymoon, save some time for exploring Miami too since they are actually under three hours apart.

21.  Texas Hill Country

“The stars at night are big and bright…”   The Lone Star State might not immediately come to mind when planning your honeymoon. Still, there are some romantic places there. In the Texas Hill Country. in Central Texas, you and your new spouse can enjoy strolling through the little towns, and sample the wares of the local breweries, and wineries. Need more outdoor action? Go hiking, enjoy the natural swimming holes.

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22.  Gulf Shores, Alabama

You will find this special spot next to the more famous, pricey, and crowded Panhandle beaches. This is a fun, affordable place with a reported “under-the-radar” feel to it. If you’re looking for a sunny, lovely, peaceful alternative to the more commercial neighboring property, this place is a charming, low-key alternative for sure! If you get bored and miss the tourists, they’re right next door.

23.  Outer Banks, North Carolina

As regular readers know, Outer Banks has recently risen to the status of one of the most romantic places in the country. Here you will find barrier islands, beaches, and lighthouses too. You will be surprised at the deals you can get on a beach getaway here too. Here you can take a relaxing stroll through town, take a boat ride, go horseback riding, swimming, or even parasailing.

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Additional Epic US Honeymoon Destinations

24.  Northern California

If you want a truly epic honeymoon in the US this place should be high on your list of possibilities. There is much here to see and experience–the giant Redwoods, San Francisco, the Napa wine country, and popular Yosemite National Park. You could turn your honeymoon into a romantic road trip. Don’t forget San Jose either–(assuming you know the way, of course).   

25.  Disney, California and Florida

Unsurprisingly, Disneyland and Walt Disney World are also classic honeymoon locations. However, some say Walt Disney World makes for a slightly better getaway. It includes dozens of resorts, four theme parks, and, some say, a nigh endless quantity of the “famous Disney magic.” Here cozy couples are reportedly “wined, dined, and doted on” Mickey and his company of cast members.

26.The Pacific Coast Highway

If you still need more of Northern California on a honeymoon, then why not hit the iconic Pacific Coast Highway? Also known as Highway 1, this scenic drive can lead you to other areas of interest including Big Sur, Malibu, and Monterey. In fact, if you can spare the time, you could take a nice long romantic road trip from the sunny beaches of San Diego all the way up to the magnificent Redwood National Forest!

The post The 26 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The USA appeared first on Add to Bucketlist , Vacation Deals.