America turns 250 in 2026, making this a memorable year to explore the places that define the nation’s story. From historic cities and iconic national parks to charming islands and family-friendly beach towns, these 26 USA vacations offer unforgettable adventures, special anniversary celebrations and plenty of inspiration for your next getaway.
Highlights
- National parks and nature take center stage. From the East Coast to the West, America is a diverse landscape with gorgeous state parks, iconic national parks and great open spaces.
- Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday. Expect to find special events, parades and museum exhibits across the country — especially in historic cities like Philadelphia and Boston.
- Mix city and nature: Pair big cities with nearby national parks or scenic drives for the ultimate U.S. adventure.
Quick Picks for Every Type of Traveler
Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!
1. Washington D.C.
America is turning 250 years old and D.C. will be the epicenter of the celebration. Expect over-the-top fireworks (and crowds!) for the Fourth of July.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Catch a ferry to this car-free island and be transported back in time. Catch a horse-drawn carriage ride to your hotel or rent bikes for a spin around the island.
- Best For: Couples, families, history buffs, slow-paced travelers
- Don’t Miss: Fort Mackinac, fudge shops, horse-drawn carriage tours
- Eat Here: The Grand Hotel Dining Room, Woods Restaurant
- Stay Here: The Grand Hotel for a splurge, or Island House Hotel, Lake View Hotel, Mission Point Resort, Pine Cottage Bed & Breakfast
3. Sandusky/Lake Erie Shore, Ohio
This is the spot for people who don’t want to choose between a laid-back beach vacation and a high-thrill adventure. Sandusky, Ohio, is home to Cedar Point (“Roller Coaster Capital of the World”), Kalahari Resorts Indoor Waterpark and Castaway Bay Indoor Waterpark. Beyond these wet and wild adventures, you can wander out to the shores of Lake Erie for some additional fun in the sun. Maybe even check a few lighthouses off your list.
4. Orlando, Florida
Yes, Orlando is home to four major theme parks — Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, LEGOLAND and SeaWorld. But it’s also got museums, nature retreats and arts and culture. Plus, the year-round warm weather makes it a great spot for fun in the sun just about any time.
5. New York City, New York
NYC is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that caters to everyone.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Museums, architecture and pizza — Chicago has all of the makings of an eventful and delicious vacation destination!
- Best For: City explorers, foodies, culture lovers
- Don’t Miss: Millennium Park, the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for a bird’s eye view of the city, a Chicago River tour of the city’s famous architecture, and the world-class museums
- Eat Here: Pizzeria Uno for deep-dish pizza, The Weiner Circle for hot dogs
- Stay Here: : InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, Fairmont Chicago, Loews Chicago Hotel, Omni Chicago Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
7. Las Vegas, Nevada
Easily one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Las Vegas is filled with casinos, shopping, fine dining and never-ending entertainment at every corner. It’s a destination that draws in couples and groups of friends looking for adventure, but it’s also surprisingly family friendly too!
8. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
With easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a Gatlinburg vacation brings outdoor adventures together with kid-friendly attractions and small town fun like Hillbilly Mini Golf. Plenty of adventures await in the beloved mountain town!
9. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia, is a charming mix of southern hospitality, Spanish moss and haunted stories.
10. Los Angeles, California
From Hollywood glamour to beachside adventures, LA is the world’s entertainment capital, the place to casually drive by celebrities’ homes, take a tour of Warner Bros Studios and get your photo taken in front of the famous Hollywood sign.
- Best For: Solo travelers, families, culture seekers, beach lovers
- Don’t Miss: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, Getty Center
- Eat Here: In-N-Out Burger (classic West Coast fast food), Bestia (Italian in the Arts District), Nobu Malibu (oceanfront fine dining)
- Stay Here: Beverly Wilshire, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
11. Sedona, Arizona
Known for its colorful, red rock formations, Sedona boasts more than 400 miles of trails. Looking for something a little more laid back? Sit back and relax at one of the area wineries, casually explore one of the local fine art galleries or book a nighttime UFO and stargazing tour.
- Best For: Avid hikers, couples, nature lovers, art enthusiasts
- Don’t Miss: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock Trail, Sedona Vortex sites, stargazing or UFO tours
- Eat Here: The Hudson (modern American cuisine with views), Elote Café (Southwestern flavors), Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
- Stay Here: Enchantment Resort, L’Auberge de Sedona
12. Boston, Massachusetts
Walk the Freedom Trail in honor of the revolutionaries who founded America and enjoy a mix of history, sports, and seafood.
12. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Historic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, perfect for the 250th celebrations.
13. San Francisco, California
Iconic hills, bridges, and eclectic neighborhoods for all types of travelers.
14. Nashville, Tennessee
Music City magic with a lively nightlife and southern charm.
- Best For: Music lovers, couples, nightlife seekers
- Don’t Miss: Country Music Hall of Fame, Broadway honky-tonks, the Bluebird Cafe
- Eat Here: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Biscuit Love
- Stay Here: Union Station Hotel, Gaylord Opryland
15. Grand Canyon, Arizona
A bucket-list natural wonder with hiking, rafting, and sunrise views. This is a place you must see with your own eyes. No photo can do it justice.
- Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
- Don’t Miss: South Rim viewpoints, Bright Angel Trail, helicopter tours
- Eat Here: El Tovar Dining Room, Arizona Room
- Stay Here: Yavapai Lodge, Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
16. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
America’s first national park offers geysers, wildlife and epic landscapes.
17. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu blends iconic beaches, rich Hawaiian culture, and outdoor adventure, making it one of the most versatile island vacations in the U.S. From surfing the North Shore to exploring historic Pearl Harbor and enjoying Waikiki’s lively resort scene, Oahu offers something for every type of traveler.
- Best For: Families, couples, adventure seekers, culture lovers
- Don’t Miss: Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, North Shore surf beaches, Diamond Head hike
- Eat Here: Leonard’s Bakery (malasadas), Helena’s Hawaiian Food, Duke’s Waikiki
- Stay Here: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club
18. Denver & Rocky Mountains, Colorado
City culture meets mountain adventure in one versatile trip.
- Best For: Outdoor lovers, families, solo travelers
- Don’t Miss: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Rocky Mountain National Park
- Eat Here: Mercantile Dining, Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- Stay Here: Hilton Denver City Center
19. Miami, Florida
Vibrant nightlife, beaches and Latin culture make this a hot getaway.
20. Seattle, Washington
Coffee culture, tech energy and scenic waterfronts define this Pacific Northwest city.
- Best For: Solo travelers, city explorers, foodies
- Don’t Miss: Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Chihuly Garden
- Eat Here: Canlis, The Pink Door
- Stay Here: The Maxwell Hotel, Fairmont Olympic Hotel
21. San Diego, California
Nearly perfect weather makes San Diego a year-round place to spend time at the beach, experience family attractions and indulge in outdoor fun.
- Best For: Families, beach lovers, couples
- Don’t Miss: Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, La Jolla Cove
- Eat Here: Phil’s BBQ, George’s at the Cove
- Stay Here: Hotel del Coronado, Bahia Resort Hotel
22. New Orleans, Louisiana
Culture, music and food-filled streets for a uniquely American experience.
23. Portland, Oregon
Laid-back vibe with craft beer, food carts, and outdoor adventures.
- Best For: Solo travelers, foodies, outdoor lovers
- Don’t Miss: Powell’s City of Books, Japanese Garden, Columbia River Gorge
- Eat Here: Voodoo Doughnut, Pok Pok
- Stay Here: Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland, The Nines
24. Austin, Texas
Live music, BBQ, and outdoor fun in the heart of Texas.
25. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Scenic mountain lake with year-round outdoor adventures.
26. Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor, Maine
Rocky coastlines, hiking trails and picturesque small towns.
- Eat Here: Jordan Pond House, Thirsty Whale Tavern
- Best For: Nature lovers, solo travelers, couples
- Don’t Miss: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, The Park Loop Road
- Stay Here: Balance Rock Inn, Bar Harbor Inn
FAQs
If I had to choose just one, I’d pick Yellowstone. The geysers, wildlife and incredible scenery make it one of America’s most unforgettable national park experiences.
I’d head to Hawaii, Florida’s Gulf Coast or California’s beach towns. Each offers beautiful scenery, great dining and plenty of opportunities to unwind.
I love Orlando for families because it combines theme parks, water parks and plenty of kid-friendly resorts. It’s an easy win for multigenerational trips too.
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