7 US Destinations to Visit
Many of us bitten by the travel bug can’t wait to explore a romantic European city or venture to a far-flung place. But for Americans eager to hop a flight or even hit the road, there’s a growing list of US destinations to visit and experience right here at home.
Want to take a trip in the United States but have no idea where to start? Here, a round-up of fabulous US destinations to visit, no passport required.
Palm Springs, California
I’ve been fortunate to travel to this beguiling area of California three times, and I’d return again and again. What do I love so much? The mountainous desert surroundings and Old Hollywood vibe are enough to keep me coming back to Palm Springs. But the the stockpile of Mid-Century Modern architecture combined with Joshua Tree National Park––a 1,235 square-mile, otherworldly oasis––mean this slice of the Golden State is like no other destination in the world. For all of these reasons and more, I’m repeatedly drawn to this unique, magical place.
Need a hotel? Stay at Talavera Palm Springs.
For more about Greater Palm Springs, head over to the tourism site.
Key West, Florida
For years now, I’ve wanted to see Key West, the southernmost point in the Continental United States. I have yet to get there, but the coastal town still tops my must-visit destinations in North America. Perhaps it’s my interest in witnessing a six-toed cat, one of the descendants of Ernest Hemingway’s polydactyl feline, Snow White. Kitties aside, the island lifestyle is what I find alluring––from conch cottages to British Colonial decor, sun and sand, and the prevalence of Cuban heritage––I say, take me to Key West.
For an upscale experience, stay at The Laureate Key West.
Visit the Florida Keys website for more details.
New York, New York
There’s no way I could skip my hometown of New York, a city that weathered the pandemic and has made a robust comeback. New York City always ranks high as one of the US destinations to visit. With a slew of things to do, including mainstays that have stood the test of time and exciting, newer pursuits.
Debuted in May 2021, Little Island at Pier 55 is a one-of-a-kind park perched on the Hudson River. There’s the city’s lively al fresco dining scene in just about every neighborhood. Art and culture enthusiasts can revel in exciting exhibits at MoMA and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Don’t skip the medieval collection at the Met Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan. What’s more, Broadway’s neon lights and the abundance of talent gracing its stages now shine brighter than ever. At any time of year, New York is always a good idea.
NYC & Company can help you plan your New York City trip.
For a splurge, I recommend The New York EDITION. And if you’re on a budget, citizenM Times Square. I’ve stayed in both hotels and would stay again.
Sedona, Arizona
For the ultimate wellness escape in the US, hop a flight to Phoenix, rent a car, and head north until you hit red rock. Sedona is a captivating little pocket of the state, with a relaxed, earthy energy, incredible local art, plenty of outdoor adventure, and even its share of delicious food. And, did I mention there’s wine there too? Arizona produces some lovely wines. You should be able to uncork a few local bottles while spending time in Sedona. For a combo of light adventure with wine tasting, opt for the four-hour Pink Sedona Wine Tour with Page Spring Cellars. And for more intrepid travelers, I suggest mountain biking or an off-road outing in an ATV.
Revel in red rock when you stay at Amara Resort & Spa. (I loved this hotel.)
See all there is to do on Visit Sedona’s website.
Charleston, South Carolina
For a distinctly European feel in the heart of the South, I recommend spending a few days in the Lowcountry. Charleston is a stunning city featuring more than 2,500 historical buildings. The town oozes style and elegance, not to mention a gentility that can only be found here. The cuisine is reason enough for the city to top your USA travel list––start with Charleston Grill, Leon’s, and Magnolias, to name a few––but don’t ignore its rich history, or the sand and sun of Kiawah Island and Folly Beach, just south of the city. You’ll discover plenty to see and do in the quintessentially southern and walkable downtown district, and you may never want to leave. Be sure to include Rainbow Row, a charming street of pastel-colored row houses, in your wanderings. I adore Charleston so much––I almost moved there in 1995.
For an elegant stay, book a room at Hotel Bennett.
The tourism website can help with your Charleston itinerary.
Detroit, Michigan
I know what you’re thinking….Detroit?! Yes, Detroit. On my trip some years ago, I fell in love with so much about this city. The stunning architecture, the friendly natives, and most importantly, the palpable hometown pride. Detroit has struggled and that’s no secret. Thanks to its revitalization efforts, Motor City has a new lease on life. Clean streets. Beautiful public parks. Trendy eateries and bars. The stylish Shinola Hotel, an anchor in Downtown. One more reason to check out this Michigan city: The Detroit Institute of Arts features one of the largest art collections in the country.
When I was in Detroit, I stayed at The Shinola, and really enjoyed my time there.
Visit Detroit can help plan your trip.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Oregon’s wine country is less than an hour outside of Portland, a fun, funky city worth a trip on its own, and an easy drive. For a base, I recommend McMinnville, the heart of the valley. The small city’s downtown is entirely walkable, and from there you’ll be able to drive to surrounding towns in minutes. For the wine experience, McMinnville offers a bounty of tasting rooms within a stroll of each other, and indie shops and restaurants are peppered in between. You may be tempted to spend all your time in town, but you need to get out among the vineyards, too. Be sure to stop in the Dundee Hills––the AVA producing some of the region’s finest Pinot Noir.
Tributary Hotel is a gorgeous little jewel in the heart of McMinnville.
Travel Oregon has more info on the Willamette Valley. And Visit McMinnville can help with hotels, tasting rooms, and things to do there.
Which US destinations to visit are on your list in the near future?
There are many more US destinations to visit than what’s on this list. I also recommend Nashville. The city of music, delicious food, and palpable energy.
Additionally, if you want to take a short trip north and have a passport, there’s Ottawa, Canada. Plus, this Canadian city promises one of the best food scenes in North America.
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