Best US Vacations
So you're looking for a change of scenery for a few days. Nothing too crazy, someplace that's just a few hours away by car or plane. Basically, somewhere new that's just far away enough from the usual routine. Here is a list of some of U.S. News Travel's favorite destinations that we think might do the job. This list currently includes only the most popular places. We're adding new ones all the time, so check back soon if your favorite spot isn't on here yet.
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: If you're a nature lover, you just can't do better than Yellowstone National Park. With steaming geysers, multicolored pools, bubbling hot springs, and hiking trails that stretch for miles, there's plenty to take your breath away in this awe-inspiring park. Plus, animal fans will appreciate a visit to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center to learn about wildlife in the area. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Yellowstone
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Museum-strolling, opera-watching, bar-hopping... The sheer number of things to do in the Big Apple puts most of its U.S. peers to shame. Cultures from all over the world mesh here with spectacular results. When you need some respite from the city's busy streetlife and soaring skyscrapers, retreat to scenic Central Park or smaller Bryant Park. To witness the city's past and present, tour the September 11 Memorial. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in New York City
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: The nation's capital has a lot going for it. With iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the world's largest obelisk, the Washington Monument, you can sightsee for days. Exploring one of the free Smithsonian museums is a pleasant way to spend a day but make sure to save some energy for an evening out—DC has a sweet restaurant and bar scene. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Washington D.C.
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: One could argue that San Diego is the most well-rounded U.S. destination as it satisfies the needs of many different vacationers. Families, couples, and singles can all have a worthwhile time here. While the beach is the marquee attractions, the city also boasts an energetic sporting culture and a vibrant downtown dining scene. Plus, the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld offer good times for all ages. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in San Diego
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: With a reputation of a bohemian capital, San Francisco has an unabashed liberalism that few cities can match. The best way to perceive the city's character is to explore each indiviudal neighborhood. From the Mission to the Castro, visitors appreciate the diverse offerings of each enclave. Just be sure to bring your walking shoes: San Fran's notorious hills are difficult to conquer without them. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in San Francisco
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Adventure and nature travelers looking to dive into the best California has to offer can't do much better than Yosemite. You can check out famous landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan, or get some exercise hiking the John Muir Trail. You can make it a camping trip or go the log cabin or hotel routes if you prefer. We recommend avoiding winter travel as this is Yosemite's wettest time of the year. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Yosemite
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: With postcard-perfect beaches and otherworldly terrain in some areas, Maui is escapism at its finest. Here, you can spend your days admiring magnificent scenery as you cruise along the legendary Road to Hana or lounging across the wine-colored sands of Kaihalulu. Snorkeling is a must here, as is dining on the scrumptious seafood. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Maui
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Oahu features a nice balance of modern city life and shimmering shorelines. With pleasant temperatures and plentiful sunshine year-round, there really is no bad time to visit. Waikiki Beach promises to please, but be forewarned: There's a good chance you will be greeted by a barrage of tourists. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Honolulu - Oahu
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Your experience in the U.S. Virgin Islands will depend on where you choose to spend your time. Nature, history, sunbathing, shopping… it all can be found here, if you pick the right spot. But it is the extraordinary natural beauty of the USVI that keeps bringing travelers back. To see it at its purest, make sure to visit the Virgin Islands National Park in St. John. Read More»
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: The main appeal of Chicago has to be its neighborhoods: Each area has its own identity and characteristics that set it apart. Forget about the tourist checklist of must-sees; strolling through the different districts and exploring all they have to offer is the best way to experience Chicago. As an added bonus, some of the best dining, nightlife and shopping in the States can be found here. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Chicago
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: The family vacation to Disney World is a classic American rite of passage. While always a fantasy land for kids, over the years, the "Imagineers" of Disney have gone to great lengths to assure that this also applies to adults. Case in point is the fascinating Animal Kingdom, which opened in 1998. More than ever, Disney World offers escapism of a sort that you can't find anywhere else. Read More»
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: In many ways, Vegas is basically a giant playground for grown-ups. Some of the best dining, shopping and nightlife in the world can be found here, all in the comfort of climate-controlled casinos. This is not a vacation for people looking for an enriching cultural experience—it is a getaway for people looking to escape the real world and unwind for a bit. And the fashion you do this in can be as innocent or as excessive as you choose. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Las Vegas
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Does any city in America have a culture more unique than the Big Easy? A melting pot of influences ranging from Caribbean to European, New Orleans has a distinct personality that can be found nowhere else on the globe. The city is in the midst of an admirable comeback from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and is welcoming visitors with all the gumbo, jazz and partying they can handle. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in New Orleans
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Although Seattle is known for its consistently soggy weather, this Pacific Northwest city has plenty to offer. But don't come here looking for the fast-paced environment of other major U.S. destinations; Seattle exudes a laid-back aura, where café and bar culture reign supreme. Spend your stay mingling with Seattleites at Pike Place Market or on the slopes of Mount Si. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Seattle
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why Go: From a railroad stop to a vibrant city, Anchorage has come a long away. In this gateway to the north, the Anchorage Museum and Alaska Native Heritage Center provide a perfect introduction to "The Last Frontier." And you can break in your hiking boots along the scenic Tony Knowles Coastal Trail and in Kincaid Park. With its miraculous scenery on full display, Anchorage also delights travelers who elect to simply peruse the local shops and eateries. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Anchorage
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why Go: As the epicenter of American wine, Napa Valley tantalizes all the senses. The sight of the striated hillsides enchants visitors, while the gourmet cuisine paired with local vintages electrifies taste buds. Perfecting a relaxed ambiance, the vineyards and boutique hotels here cater to romance and recreation. It seems like an escape to California wine country is respite for everything… except your wallet. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Napa Valley
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why Go: The majestic red hues, bizarre rock formations and stunning sunsets rarely disappoint Sedona visitors. While active travelers are thrilled with the rock-climbing, off-roading and hiking opportunities, leisure-seekers adore the locale for its boutique resorts, serene spas, and tranquil ambience. Plus, the New Age environment—complete with palm readers and vortexes—adds a delightful quirk. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Sedona
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Combining an over the top party scene with a laid-back beach vibe is always a winning formula, but Miami Beach also has plenty more going for it. Great weather almost year-round against a scenic backdrop of palms and pastels, an array of international cuisine to test the boundaries of your palate and quirky Art Deco hotels in no short supply—Miami Beach is all of this and a whole lot more. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Miami Beach
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: Beautiful architecture, relaxing beaches and plenty of Southern grace are the defining elements of Charleston. Strolling through downtown and exploring historic sites and nearby museums are great ways to spend those non-beach afternoons. Charleston also has a lot to offer for those looking to dig into some serious Southern dishes. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Charleston
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: With an elegance and Southern Charm all its own, Savannah is a getaway for those looking for something different. Civil War-era architecture, beautiful parks filled with Spanish moss, and a preserved Historic District all beg to be explored. Add this to amazing Southern cuisine, a fun nightlife scene and a generally mellower pace of life and you can see why we hold Savannah in such high regard. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Savannah
See Photos | Best Hotels | Add Comment
Why go: If you’re looking to make a quick and affordable trip off of the mainland, Puerto Rico may be what you're looking for. This island appeals to a wide range of travelers: Culture-lovers, sun-worshippers, nightlife freaks and the outdoorsy adventure-types will all find what they're looking for here. Just be wary of traveling here during hurricane season. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico
Also Consider for Best US Vacations...
in Best US Vacations