Spanning over 3 million square miles across vastly diverse terrain from tropical Hawaii to the rugged Alaska frontier, the United States offers boundless destinations to explore state-by-state. But with so much ground to cover, what spots should top your list to ensure an epic and memorable trip? Read on for the ultimate United States travel bucket list highlighting 10 best travel destinations in united states and national parks sure to ignite the wanderlust spirit for an all-American adventure.

Be Inspired by Iconic Vistas in Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park

Carved over millions of years by the Colorado River, few natural wonders compare with the vast multi-hued chasms forming Arizona’s Grand Canyon, considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Hike below the rim along legendary Bright Angel Trail to fully absorb the sheer immensity of these geological layers revealing 2 billion years of Earth’s history that tower skyward while spotting bighorn sheep and California condors soaring overhead. Camp or stay at one of several lodges perched directly on the canyon rim itself for the most memorable sunrise and sunset panoramas anywhere.

Step Back in Time Wandering Charleston’s Antebellum Architecture and Cobblestone Alleys

Named the best city in the world by Travel+Leisure magazine, historic Charleston beckons with antebellum architecture fronted by palmetto trees and intricate ironwork, evoking the romantic aura of America’s early years as a burgeoning colonial settlement then prosperous cotton empire. Meander hidden alleyways that weave past fountained courtyards with overhanging balconies, shop thriving City Market’s bustling artisan stalls, then feast on superb Lowcountry cuisine celebrating the South’s flavorful legacy of Gullah cooking. Don’t miss colorful rainbow row homes along the Battery overlooking Charleston Harbor at golden hour too.

Be Captivated by Art and Skylines in Metropolitan New York City

The city that never sleeps hardly needs an introduction yet still manages to surprise first-timers with its dynamic neighborhoods, iconic skyline framed by skyscrapers like the Empire State Building, world-renowned museums showcasing nearly every artistic period and movement, Michelin-starred restaurants on every block, rooftop bars, Broadway musicals, and electric energy felt pulsing through the urban air itself from drag shows to street jazz performances. Don’t try seeing everything at once – instead wander off-the-beaten path through Harlem, Williamsburg and the Lower East Side’s vibrant communities.

Traverse Otherworldly Landscapes Across Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks

With five extraordinary national parks squeezed into Utah’s sweeping southwestern landscapes, road trip through red rock hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, watch sunset set otherworldly Delicate Arch ablaze in Arches NP, gaze out over endless canyons etched into Lost Maples at Canyonlands NP, hike through soaring Narrows River slot canyon in Zion NP, then contrast by traversing Capitol Reef NP’s colorful sandstone domes reminiscent of Australian outback. Utah offers premier backdrops for both road trips and outdoor adventure across unique American terrain.

Embrace the Aloha Spirit While Island Hopping Across Hawaii

With vibrant Polynesian culture embracing the “aloha spirit” of living joyfully in the present, Hawaii takes being laid-back to an art form perfect for dissolving stress into the tropical breeze. Base yourself on Oahu to visit Pearl Harbor then escape to quieter Maui with its iconic Road to Hana dotted by waterfalls plus views of Haleakala volcano and the Pacific stretching to the horizon. Or for an authentic Hawaiian getaway, head to the Big Island for black sand beaches, active lava flows steaming into the sea, coffee and cocoa tours, then stand up paddle the clear waters too.

Conclusion

The United States presents no shortage of phenomenal cool places to travel in South America to experience the diversity encompassing America, from towering canyons to sultry southern charm, metropolitan action or Polynesian island vibes. Factor in national parks shielding ancient sequoias, bubbling geothermal wonders like Old Faithful, even California’s wine country and you’ll still barely scratch the surface of what’s possible state-by-state. But these seven locales make for an excellent starter collection of top-tier sites guaranteed to satisfy on your inaugural U.S. adventure – though inevitably leaving you yearning for more. Just embrace that wanderlust spirit and enjoy unraveling your own country’s rare combination of natural beauty and modern energy. The open road awaits… let’s roll!