Travel Destinations Within the US

BjornKochTravelBlog

 

The United States of America is, by and large, a beautiful country. From the rolling Rocky Mountains and grassy plains of the Midwest to the Florida Everglades and monuments in Washington D.C., and everything in between. We’ve discussed some of the best that New York dining has to offer, and some of the best walking and short-term traveling you can do within Boston proper, but what about the rest of the United States? In the interest of sticking on the positive side after my “four destinations to avoid” post last week, I’ll turn the tables a bit and explore some of the best traveling you can do within the borders of the US.

 

National Parks

Some destinations are over visited, overrated and overblown. National Parks are not a part of that group. Some of the most beautiful and breathtaking views can be found at the various national parks around the country, of which there are 58 from coast to coast. Hikes through a park can be a great form of exercise to go along with the beautiful view, and can even make a great date with a significant other.

 

Yellowstone

Perhaps the best-known of the nation’s national parks, Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is home to a wealth of rivers, canyons and, of course, Old Faithful.

 

Yosemite

Another one of the more well-known US national parks, Yosemite National Park in California is known far and wide for the towering sequoias and the cliffs and waterfalls that pepper the beautiful, lush landscape.

 

Glacier National Park

Located in the Montana region of the Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park features snowcapped mountains and some of the clearest lake water you’ll find in the continental US.

 

Cities and Monuments

Sometimes when you’re planning your next big trip, you just can’t shake the call of the big cities around the nation. While not all cities are created equal, most have some significant and interesting landmarks, vastly different cultures and delicious food.

 

New York City

One of the cultural epicenters of the US, New York features some of the fastest moving and most innovative minds in the business and entertainment industries. The Big Apple is also known for its arts scene and wealth of museums. While you’re there, stop by and visit the Statue of Liberty and experience the view from the top, if you’re fit enough to climb all those stairs (354 to be exact).

 

Las Vegas

While most people visit Las Vegas for the strip, there is more to be experienced. In addition to New York, Vegas has some fantastic food, everything from local cuisine to upscale fine-dining establishments. The nightlife in Vegas speaks for itself, and doesn’t need to be elaborated on.

 

Washington D.C.

If monuments and national history are your thing, DC is right for you. Washington is home to the nation’s capital, featuring the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and plenty of others. If education and learning is more up your alley you can visit the world famous Smithsonian Institut, home to a wonderful array of historically relevant items.

 

If you are planning on taking a big trip sometime soon, consider checking out the “perfect road trip,” (and its flaws) or, if flying is more your game, check out my tips on saving money on your next flight.