There’s so much to see and do in the US. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, consider yourself more of a culture buff or are passionate about history. This article includes the best vacation spots in the US from north to south and east to west, as well as everywhere in between.
The best summer vacation spots in the US
Summer’s here, the weather’s heating up, and you want to take a much-needed break in the sun. We’ve rounded up the best places in the US to spend your summer days and nights.
Niagara Falls, NY: Best vacation spot in the US for solo travelers
Niagara Falls is the 8th wonder of the world. It sits on the border of both the United States and Canada. Cross over the Rainbow Bridge by car to reach Niagara Falls, Canada, in less than 20 minutes.
This is a great destination for solo travelers who like to gamble because of its three casinos and its all-you-can-eat buffets. Families can take a Falls boat tour and visit the Aquarium of Niagara or the Castellani Art Museum at Niagara University.
Dallas, TX: Best vacation spots in the US for art enthusiasts
Dallas is one of the best vacation spots in the US for people passionate about art and culture. In particular, art lovers will enjoy spending time at the Dallas Museum of Art in the Art District. If you’re into theater or music, come to enjoy a concert at the Moody Performance Hall.
In addition to its burgeoning art district, it has numerous museums. History buffs can discover historical sites like the JFK Memorial, the Sixth Floor Museum, the Texas Theater, and the Conspiracy Museum.
Dallas is also home to the NFL Dallas Cowboys and the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA. You can drive to a game in your rental car.
Mackinac Island, MI: Best vacation spots in the US to break from modern stress
Mackinac Island, MI, is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It is packed with charm and history. From the island, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Huron. There is plenty to do and see on the island during the day and night.
You can explore Mackinac’s sights with a carriage ride around the island, which does not allow motorized vehicles. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without trying the famous local fudge. Fancy a round of golf? There are two golf courses to choose from on the island.
Note: You must take a plane or ferry to reach the island.
Lake Tahoe, CA: Best spot in the US for a lake vacation
Enjoy the splendor of nature with a summer vacation to beautiful Lake Tahoe. It is home to several state parks, biking, and hiking trails. The lake borders the states of California and Nevada, and there are several casinos in the area, making this among the best vacation spots in the US for those who enjoy gambling.
Visiting here, you’ll be a short drive from Carson City and Reno, NV, which is also known as the Biggest Little City in the World. Spend some time exploring these local cities – you’ll be less than an hour from Reno and Carson City, NV.
If you plan to drive around Lake Tahoe in the winter, be sure to have a 4WD or snow chains on your tires. My husband and I attempted to drive from Reno, NV to Lake Tahoe on Christmas Day. Because of a chain requirement, we had to turn around just miles before getting there. We were so disappointed.
Boston, MA: Best vacation spots in the US for sports lovers
Explore the historical city of Boston on your next vacation. This city is rich in history and has numerous sights and museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts. Located on Massachusetts Bay, it is among the best vacation spots in the US to enjoy seafood, especially lobster. Boston is a great vacation spot in the US for sports lovers too and is home to a professional baseball, basketball, and hockey team.
The best romantic vacations for couples
Celebrate your love or rekindle your relationship at one of these popular destinations in the US.
Napa Valley, CA: Best vacation spots in the US for wine lovers
Napa is an ideal place for wine lovers and foodies looking for a romantic getaway. It is easily one of the best vacation spots in the US for wine lovers; however, this region is home to some of the top spas in the US. You can get couple’s spa treatments like mud or mineral baths, take a hot spring dip, or learn floating meditation.
Consider visiting for one of the annual local events, such as the Napa Lighted Art Festival in January or Bottlerock Napa Valley, a three-day music festival in May.
Oahu, HI: Best exotic vacation spots in the US
Explore the island of Oahu on a luxurious and exotic US vacation. You’ll indulge in delicious foods and can enjoy memorable experiences like taking an oceanfront horseback ride or swimming with the dolphins. Attend a luau and delve into Hawaiian culture.
The island also has many oceanfront bars for a sunset cocktail. It is among the best vacation spots in the US for couples on their honeymoon or looking to get some alone time.
Kirkham Hot Springs, ID: Best romantic vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts
Are you looking for somewhere different to spend a romantic vacation? Kirkham is a great choice for couples who like to spend time outdoors enjoying nature. Come to bathe in the warmth of the hot springs. Go hiking or horseback riding on local trails. Other outdoor excursions include kayaking and whitewater rafting.
Gatlinburg, TN: Best romantic vacation spot in the smoky mountains
Cozy up with your sweetie in one of Gatlinburg‘s honeymoon cottages in front of the fireplace. Be sure to take your camera with you as there are many places to get pictures of the Smoky Mountains. Take a helicopter or chairlift ride to enjoy close-up views of the mountains.
Sedona, AZ: The Best romantic vacation spot in the US for hiking
Be romantic while enjoying the beautiful rock formations and the forests in Sedona. Get up early in the morning to watch the sunrise over Red Rock Country while sipping wine from a local vineyard. You can also go hiking, take an off-road adventure in a Jeep, or explore arts and culture with a visit to one of the many local art galleries. Sedona is a beautiful place to make memories.
The best beach vacations in the US
There’s a whole range of different beach vacations to choose from in the US, from those with a party atmosphere to quiet bays where you can enjoy your favorite book.
Miami, FL: The best beach vacation spot in the US for nightlife
Miami has an array of different beaches to visit. There is a beach for everyone, from families to solo travelers. Here are a few beach recommendations. South Beach is ideal if you’re looking for nightlife, as there are several waterfront bars where you can listen to live music and dance. Visit North Shore Beach if you want more peace and quiet, as well as smaller crowds.
Key Biscayne Beach is perfect for those traveling with children. Family-friendly activities here include bicycling, flying kites, swimming, and making sand castles. Other activities you can enjoy on a Miami beach include surfing, boating, sailing, and fishing.
Muskegon, MI: The best beach vacation spot for pets
If you’re looking for a hidden gem, you’ve found it. This is also a great beach vacation spot if you travel with a pet. Pere Marquette Beach is on Lake Michigan, about an hour from Grand Rapids and two hours from Traverse City. It has over two miles of beach with a designated area for dogs.
The beach has a bar, volleyball court, and a walking path to the lighthouse. Drive 15 minutes to nearby Grand Haven City Beach for a different experience.
On the way to Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon, I like to shop in the Lakeside neighborhood. They have a couple of art galleries and an old-fashioned candy store where you can buy salt water taffy and yummy fudge.
Martha’s Vineyard, MA: The best beach vacation spot in the US for surfing
Martha’s Vineyard has many different public and private beaches. Some are great for sunbathing, while others are popular with surfers.
You’ll find great fishing at Lobsterville Beach. East Beach and Aquinnah Beach are great places to enjoy a spectacular sunset. Squibnocket Beach is most popular with surfers.
After spending a day at the beach, you can shop at its quaint boutiques or visit the local museum to learn about the island’s history.
Hilton Head, SC: The best beach vacation spot in the US to spot sea turtles
Hilton Head has lovely beaches along the Atlantic Coast. It is a great place for a family vacation, as several beachfront resorts exist. Hilton Head Island has beautiful weather almost year-round. The family can enjoy bike riding on the boardwalk, kayaking or spotting sea turtles on the beach. Along with beach adventures, Hilton Head offers amazing golf for both the novice and the pro.
Ship Island, MS: The best beach vacation spot in the US for shelling
You can only get to Ship Island by boat. It will take you about an hour to get to the island from Gulfport, MS. Watch for dolphins on the ride. Some of the best beach activities here include swimming and shelling. There’s also a historic fort on the island with numerous exhibits.
The best family vacation spots in the US
Can’t quite stretch the budget to Disneyland? Check out these alternatives to avoid the crowds and save a little money.
Hersheypark in Hershey, PA: The best vacation spot in the US for chocolate lovers
Hersheypark is a chocolate lover’s dream. It is located close to the city of Harrisburg. This is an ideal place for a family with children of different ages. There is something for everyone to enjoy, including a zoo, chocolate factory, and amusement park. Hersheypark has rides for all ages, including rollercoasters for thrill seekers.
Dollywood Theme Park, Pigeon Forge, TN: The best vacation spots in the US for country music lovers
Are you a fan of Dolly Parton and country music? If so, Dollywood Theme Park is the place for you. It has the modern thrills of an amusement park with old-world charm. Dollywood is in the Smoky Mountains and is close to Pigeon Forge resorts, which are great for family vacations. You’ll also be just minutes from a designer store outlet where you can enjoy lots of retail therapy.
Knott’s Berry Farm, Buena Park, CA: The best vacation spots in the US for large families
Knott’s Berry Farm has something for the whole family. It is a popular amusement park just minutes from Anaheim, CA. Walking around the park, you’ll likely meet Snoopy, Charlie Brown, or one of the characters created by Charles Schultz.
Wisconsin Dells, WI: The best vacation spots in the US for families year-round
You won’t hear the kids complain of boredom when in Wisconsin Dells. This city has so much to do and see for adults and children. Wisconsin Dells is a great place to visit year-round. You can ski or go tubing during the winter and enjoy water fun in the summer. There’s also an amusement park and a wildlife park in the town. For the adults, there are many breweries, wineries, and distilleries to explore.
Sandusky, OH: The best vacation spot in the US with an amusement park
Sandusky is home to Cedar Point, an amusement and waterpark, one of the best vacation spots in the US for families. It is the 2nd oldest amusement park in the US. The park boasts of having the first strata coaster over 400 feet tall. It sits on Lake Erie and has its own beach where parents can relax while the kids are being entertained in the park.
Tips for planning the perfect vacation
Start planning your perfect vacation by choosing a location along with travel dates. Remember, you can often save money by booking your flight during the off-season for your selected destination.
Now that you’ve decided where to go, make a list of things you want to do and see while you’re there. Packing wisely can prevent you from overfilling your suitcase and having to pay extra airline baggage fees if you’re flying.
Finally, you’ll want to find the ideal place to stay. Start by deciding what kind of accommodation you’d prefer. For example, do you want to stay in a resort, a small boutique hotel, or a spacious rental home big enough for the whole family? Be sure to choose a place that’s right for the kind of vacation you want to have – and whoever you plan to be enjoying it with.
How does KAYAK know what to put in this guide?
This guide is a combination of my passion for travel, personal experiences, tips from the KAYAK team and plenty of research! I’m an avid traveler who likes to see the world, especially the best vacation spots in the US, and I’m always looking for ways to save money without sacrificing comfort or enjoyment when traveling.
