Hello, fellow travel enthusiasts! Today, I'm excited to share with you the top 5 destinations in the US that I've personally explored over the past three years. I just got back from LA last month, and I'm still experiencing post-travel blues.
That's why I decided to compile this list of must-visit places based on my experiences. With limited time and budget, if you're planning a trip to the US, this post will serve as your perfect guide. So, shall we begin our journey?
Table of Contents
1. New York - The City That Never Sleeps
New York isn't just a city; it's an entire universe. The moment you step into Times Square, you can feel its vibrant energy enveloping you. To be honest, when I first arrived, I was a bit overwhelmed by the crowds, but I quickly adapted!
Central Park is like the lungs of the city. It's amazing to find such a vast green space amidst dense skyscrapers. If you visit in spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it even more beautiful. In summer, there are often outdoor concerts, so check those out.
The Statue of Liberty needs no introduction. Taking the ferry from Battery Park is a great experience. And the view from the Empire State Building observation deck is truly overwhelming. If you go up around sunset, you can experience the magical moment when the city lights start to come on as dusk falls.
Must-Visit Attractions in New York
Broadway shows are one of the highlights of a New York trip. While ticket prices can be a bit steep, you can find discounted same-day tickets at TKTS booths. The Metropolitan Museum is also a must-visit. Its collection is so vast that you couldn't see it all in a day.
2. Grand Canyon - Nature's Breathtaking Wonder
The feeling when you first see the Grand Canyon is truly indescribable. No matter how many photos you've seen, standing in front of it in person leaves you speechless due to its overwhelming scale. When I visited, it was around sunset, and the canyon bathed in the golden light was absolutely magical.
| Best Time to Visit | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Mild temperatures, flowers starting to bloom | Can be windy |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Long daylight hours, all facilities open | Very crowded and hot |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Pleasant temperatures, less crowded | Shorter daylight hours |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Snow-covered scenery, fewer tourists | Cold, possible road closures |
The Grand Canyon can be viewed from the South Rim and the North Rim. Most tourists visit the South Rim, which is accessible year-round and has better facilities. The North Rim is only open from May to October, but if you want to enjoy the scenery in a more peaceful setting, I recommend it.
3. San Francisco - The Golden Gate City
San Francisco is one of the most uniquely charming cities in America. Victorian houses lined up on hills, cable cars, and of course, the Golden Gate Bridge! It's a foggy city, so you might wake up to find the city shrouded in mist. That's why it's good to check the weather before visiting the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Golden Gate Bridge: Renting a bike and cycling across the bridge is a great experience.
- Alcatraz Island: The famous former prison can be visited through a pre-booked tour.
- Fisherman's Wharf: A spot with seafood restaurants where you can also see sea lions.
- Lombard Street: Famous for being the most crooked street in the world.
- Chinatown: The oldest and largest Chinatown in the United States.
San Francisco can be challenging to explore on foot due to its many hills. However, public transportation is excellent, so purchasing a MUNI pass will allow you to move around conveniently. Also, the weather can be unpredictable, so it's good to dress in layers.
4. Las Vegas - The City of Dazzling Lights
Las Vegas is truly a must-visit destination on any US trip. The entire city feels like one massive amusement park! When I first arrived in Las Vegas, I was honestly a bit overwhelmed by its glamour. During the day, it might look ordinary, but when night falls, the whole city starts to glow with neon signs - it's absolutely fantastic!
The Las Vegas Strip is the heart of Las Vegas, lined with world-famous hotels. The Bellagio Fountain Show is one of the must-see attractions. You can watch the fountains dance to music for free every 15 or 30 minutes. It's even more beautiful at night!
Las Vegas Insider Tips
You can't miss the casinos in Las Vegas. To be honest, I don't know much about gambling, so I just bet the minimum amount for the experience. It was actually quite fun! But it's best not to go overboard, right? I also enjoyed exploring the hotel interiors, which is free. The artificial canal and gondolas inside the Venetian Hotel really make you feel like you're in Italy.
Just a short drive from Las Vegas, you can visit Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon. If you enjoy natural landscapes, I highly recommend them. Red Rock Canyon, in particular, has stunning red rock formations that'll take your breath away.
5. Hawaii - Paradise Islands
Hawaii is truly a paradise that needs no introduction. I visited Oahu last summer, and the memories are still vivid. As soon as you arrive in Hawaii, the warm air and floral scent greet you right from the airport. The crystal-clear blue waters of Waikiki Beach have a beauty that's hard to capture in photos.
| Hawaiian Island | Main Attractions | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Oahu | Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head | Most developed island, home to Honolulu |
| Maui | Haleakala Volcano, Road to Hana | Whale watching, beautiful beaches |
| Big Island | Kilauea Volcano, Mauna Kea | Active volcanoes, black sand beaches |
| Kauai | Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon | Most pristine natural landscapes |
In Hawaii, you can enjoy not only beach activities but also various experiences. You can try water sports like snorkeling, surfing, and paddleboarding, or participate in a luau (traditional Hawaiian party) to experience Hawaiian culture. When I went, the luau party at the Polynesian Cultural Center was an unforgettable experience. I could enjoy fire dancing and traditional food while feeling the true culture of Hawaii.
6. Essential US Travel Checklist
If you're planning a trip to the US, you might find the checklist below helpful. When I first traveled to the US, I was a bit overwhelmed due to lack of preparation. Especially the tipping culture! It was really hard to get used to. So, I'm sharing my experience to help you prepare in advance.
- ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application: Complete at least 72 hours before entering the US
- Travel insurance: Medical costs in the US are very expensive, so make sure to get insurance
- Tipping preparation: Restaurants 15-20%, Taxis 10-15%, Hotel bellman $1-2/bag
- Electrical adapter: The US uses 110V, Type A outlets
- Transportation plan: Distinguish between cities with developed public transportation and those without
- SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi: Data roaming is expensive, so I recommend getting a local SIM card
- Basic English conversation: Learn simple greetings, expressions of gratitude, and phrases for asking for help
Remember, the US is a vast country, and you can't see everything in one trip. When planning your itinerary, don't be too greedy and consider dividing your trip by region. For example, you could plan an East Coast trip (New York, Washington DC, Boston), a West Coast trip (LA, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon), or a Southern trip (Miami, Orlando, New Orleans).
Frequently Asked Questions about US Travel
The best time to visit the US varies depending on the region due to its diverse climate. Generally, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are great times to visit with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. New York and the East Coast are beautiful during fall foliage season, while Hawaii is warm year-round but less crowded and cheaper in April-May and September-October.
For most tourists, you can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) for stays up to 90 days. ESTA can be applied for online and is valid for two years. It's best to apply at least 72 hours before your trip. The fee is about $21. However, some nationalities still require a tourist visa. Always check the official US government website for the most up-to-date information.
The cost of a US trip can vary greatly depending on the cities you visit, your travel style, and the season. Popular cities like New York, San Francisco, and Hawaii tend to be more expensive. As a rough estimate, budget around $150-250 per person per day for mid-range accommodations, meals, and activities. This can increase if you're planning luxury experiences or visiting during peak seasons. Don't forget to factor in costs for transportation between cities, which can be significant given the country's size.
For long distances, flying is often the most efficient option. Look for domestic airlines like Southwest, Delta, American, and United, and use price comparison sites to find good deals. For shorter distances, you might consider renting a car, which gives you more flexibility but can be challenging in big cities due to parking issues. There are also long-distance buses (like Greyhound) and trains (Amtrak), which can be more scenic but usually take longer. In some regions, particularly the Northeast, train travel can be quite efficient.
Tipping is an essential part of US culture. In restaurants, it's customary to tip 15-20% of the bill. For taxis, 10-15% is standard. In hotels, tip bellhops $1-2 per bag and housekeeping $2-5 per day. At bars, $1-2 per drink is typical. Some restaurants may automatically add gratuity for large groups, so check your bill carefully. Remember, service workers often rely on tips as a significant part of their income, so it's important to factor this into your budget.
The US is generally safe for tourists, but as with any travel, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. In big cities, be cautious in unfamiliar areas, especially at night. Use reputable transportation services and keep valuables secure. It's a good idea to have travel insurance, as medical costs in the US can be very high. Also, familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers (911 for all emergencies). Each city or region may have specific safety considerations, so it's worth researching your specific destinations before your trip.
Wrapping Up: Plan Your Own US Adventure
So, there you have it – my top 5 must-visit destinations in the US! What do you think? The US is so vast and diverse that it's impossible to cover everything in one trip. Even after my fourth visit, I still have a long list of places I want to explore.
When planning your own US adventure, remember not to be too ambitious. It's better to focus on one region at a time – maybe an East Coast trip, a West Coast journey, or a Southern exploration. And don't forget to respect local customs and rules, especially tipping etiquette and queuing – it'll make your trip much more enjoyable.
Have you been to any of these places? Or do you have a favorite US destination that didn't make my list? I'd love to hear about it in the comments! Your experiences could be invaluable to other readers planning their trips. And if you have any questions about traveling in the US, feel free to ask – I'll do my best to help based on my experiences. Here's to your next unforgettable US adventure! Happy travels!