12 Unforgettable U.S. Destinations for Mindful Travelers and Adventure Seekers
We often dream of faraway places, but many times the most dreamy places to travel are right under our nose. If you look a little closer, the continental U.S. is home to some fascinating places. From expansive coastlines, snow capped mountains to sprawling metropolis’, the United States has something for everyone.
Here are 12 bucket list destinations in the Continental U.S.:
1. Antelope Canyon
It’s no wonder why the Navajo people hold these grounds as a sacred place. Located near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is home to one of nature’s most fascinating inventions. Water and wind-carved from red sandstone engraved with mesmerizing lines, this bucket list destination is one of the most photographed locations in Arizona. Check out Navajo Tours while you’re there!
2. Glacier National Park
Source: @travisburkephotography
A hiker’s fantasyland, Glacier National Park offers over 700 miles of trails to explore, not to mention fresh, clear water views. There is a trail for everyone. By many accounts, the scenery, sunsets, and clear glacial waters are unmatched anywhere else in the United States.
3. Bonneville Salt Flats
Many people hear about the salt flats via the Bonneville Salt Flats International Speedway. If you haven’t heard about this place, the Bonneville Salt Flats is a vast stretch of flat, completely empty grounds west of Salt Lake City. Long ago, it was a lake the size of Lake Michigan. It dried up, leaving an immense amount of salt and a desert like environment that is a fascinating sight to see. Many equate the landscape to something out of a sci-fi scene.
4. Big Sur
Not many drives inspire awe and admiration like the undeveloped, scenic stretch along Pacific Coast Highway that is Big Sur. Located between Carmel and San Simeon, Big Sur is even more breathtaking via horseback ride. Ride trails along redwood paths in Andrew Molera State Park down to the beach.
5. Hoh Rain Forest, Washington
Source: @michaelmatti
People travel far and wide to visit the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park in Washington state. The extensive landscape houses an extraordinarily diverse and untouched eco-system, including trees that are more than 300 years old! What’s fascinating is the layers of moss, fungi, and understory plants. Also located in the rainforest is a sanctuary for silence. You read it right, a place to protect and preserve the peace and quiet of this natural environment. Sign us up!
6. Napa Valley, California
Uniquely, California has a multitude of wine regions, but Napa is often the top choice to sip the select wines and beverages. Most wineries are located on Highway 29, while quieter tasting rooms are along Silverado Trail.
7. Asheville, North Carolina
Home to the historic Biltmore Estate and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ashville is a unique mountainous town. Ashville offers various activities to suit any traveler’s interest, from the River Arts District, hiking trails to brewery hopping.
8. Joshua Tree
Photographers love Joshua Tree National Park for its nocturnal skies rich with stars and unearthly views. The sky is so clear and vast. It’s like you can see the whole galaxy from the desert. Just 2 hours outside of Los Angeles, Joshua Tree is an ideal place to camp for one night. Not into camping, try glamping! Check out Glamping Hub for more info.
9. Grand Prismatic Spring at Yellowstone National Park
Considering all Yellowstone National Park has to offer, the Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most mind-blowing. The captivating rainbow of colors of this natural hot spring is what inspired its name and attracts so many visitors each year. The ring of colors is created by the varying temperature and diverse species of heat-loving bacteria in each area of the spring.
10. Havasupai Falls
Havasupai falls in Grand Canyon National Park beckons travelers who love natural turquoise water and a physical challenge. This magical place has a total of 5 waterfalls on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. The 70-degree waters are quite tempting at Havasupai Falls. The good news is there are authorized swimming destinations. You’ll need a permit and the ability to hike quite a distance. As always, be sure to plan ahead.
11. Florida Keys
One of America’s most unique drives is said to be from Miami to Key West, especially if you like water! The Overseas Highway runs 113 miles over 40 plus bridges across the Florida Keys. There you will have clear blue water and extra chill vibes from the locals.
12. White Sands National Monument
This incredibly pristine location is located north of the Chihuahuan Desert. The glistening white sands of New Mexico are a sight to see with enchanting blue skies on the horizon. Take in all the calmness and peace of crystal sands for as far as the eye can see.
