There are so many places to visit in the world but it’s impossible to overlook the USA as one country that really does offer something for everyone. Theme parks and monumental scenery might be what bring flocks of tourists to the main attractions every year, but if it’s nightlife (Vegas) culture (Boston) the beach (Florida) the shopping (California), the great outdoors, the mountains, an incredibly varied selection of cuisine, music, or simply corn fields and cowboys, then there isn’t any place better than the good ole U.S of A. Here are some of our favourite destinations that manage to combine the very best that North America has to offer.
Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona
For those that’ve been, there is the clichéd statement that it really does take your breath away. The fact is, once you’ve stood atop the Grand Canyon, there really is no stepping back down. Of course, you can park and view for as long as you like, or partake in any one of the incredible experiences that take you above, along and deep into the heart of what is probably the USA’s (and one of the world’s) most breath-taking locations.
Las Vegas — Nevada
If you prefer your vacation to consist of a little hedonistic fun (or even a lot), then Las Vegas is your oasis in the sand. Of course, there are plenty of naughty pursuits to help you part you with your moral compass and your wallet, but there’s also loads more: top class restaurants, Broadway-topping shows, nightclubs, and stunning landmarks. And if that’s not enough to make you love Vegas, then just walk the main strip at midnight and drink in the lights. A pure out of body experience, some of which you can tell the family about. All the better if you’ve won at roulette.
Santa Fe — New Mexico
Pull a Georgia O'Keeffe and lose yourself in Santa Fe's otherworldly landscapes. Check out local artists' work in the many galleries along Canyon Road, and see O'Keeffe's famous animal skull paintings at her eponymous museum — then ponder all of this artistic magnificence over margaritas and a big bowl of guac and chips.
Sedona — Arizona
You'll never get over marveling at the beauty of the Red Rocks of Sedona — they're that awe-inspiring. Get up-close and personal with these rust-hued mesas and buttes via Jeep tour, then head to one of Sedona's vortexes to soak up some positive vibes. (Using healing crystals and getting an aura photo is optional.)
Big Sur — California
If you've seen HBO’s Big Little Lies, you've no doubt been blown away by the gorgeous cliff-hugging backdrops, especially around Bixby Bridge, the iconic 280-foot-high span on the Pacific Coast Highway. This jaw-dropping stretch from Carmel to the boho hangout of Big Sur is surely one of the world's greatest scenic drives.
Jackson — Wyoming
This rugged destination in the Teton Mountains is all about being in the great outdoors. Summer brings hiking, horseback riding, and river rafting; come wintertime, there's world-class skiing at one of the country's top ski resorts. Plus, there are plenty of authentic Western-style bars where you just might mingle with real cowboys.
Miami — Florida
Get your South Beach sizzle on during a trip to Miami, named by Lonely Planet as one of 2019's hottest destinations. Catch some rays on the beach, party in the glam hotels along Collins Avenue, and enjoy the buzzing bars along Ocean Drive, which is lined with pastel-hued Art Deco buildings. If you're feeling ambitious, check out the edgy street art in the nearby Wynwood Art District.
