As someone born in Denver and raised in Connecticut, I’ve always called the United States home. And while I’ve had the chance to explore some incredible places within the country, in recent years, my journey has taken me far beyond its borders. I’ve become a full-time international traveler, spending most of my time abroad, exploring new cultures, landscapes, and ways of life across more than 33 countries and five continents.
But the more time I spend away from the U.S., and the more conversations I have with people from around the world, the more I come to appreciate just how unique, diverse, and beautiful America really is. It’s easy to overlook what’s in your own backyard when you’re focused on the world beyond it—but the United States is vast, and it offers an incredible range of experiences that rival some of the best international destinations.
From the tropical beaches of Hawaii to the deserts of Arizona, the rugged coastlines of the Pacific Northwest to the glacier-carved landscapes of Alaska, this country is home to nearly every type of climate, terrain, and ecosystem you can imagine. It’s also filled with regional cultures, Indigenous histories, and natural wonders that deserve to be celebrated.
Before I ever booked a one-way ticket abroad, I had already explored many national parks, small towns, and big cities across the U.S. And now, with a global perspective, I’ve come to value those domestic adventures even more. Whether you’re an American planning your first road trip or an international traveler curious about what the U.S. has to offer, I want to share some of the most memorable places I’ve visited in my home country—along with a few that are still high on my bucket list.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is one of my favorite spots in the U.S. for two reasons. First, the landscapes are absolutely stunning. The red rock formations, desert cliffs, and vibrant nature surrounding Sedona create some of the most unique views I’ve seen. There are endless hiking trails to explore, each leading to iconic rock structures and scenic viewpoints that make you feel fully immersed in the beauty of the desert.
But what really sets Sedona apart for me is the energy and vibe of the town. There’s a calm, spiritual atmosphere here that’s so apparent in the people, the local shops, and just the overall feel of the city. It has this laid-back, hippie and nature-loving vibe that I haven’t felt in many other U.S. towns. Compared to the big city of Phoenix nearby, Sedona feels like a completely different world, peaceful, grounding, and refreshing. It’s a place where you can enjoy the perfect balance of things to do while still feeling relaxed and connected to nature.
Hawaiian Islands
Next up is a place that will always hold a special kind of magic for me, the Hawaiian Islands. No matter how far I travel, how many islands I visit, or how many countries I explore, Hawaii sets the standard for what a tropical paradise should feel like. The views, the towering mountains, active volcanoes, world-class surfing, lush hikes, stunning beaches, and the laid-back island vibes, everything here feels unmatched.
What makes Hawaii even more special is the people and the culture. The Hawaiian spirit is something you can feel all around you, from the kindness of the locals to the deep connection they have with the land and ocean. It’s a beautiful experience to witness and be a part of such a rich and living culture within the U.S.
The islands truly offer everything you could want in a tropical destination, while still having the comforts and conveniences of being in the U.S., including a major city like Honolulu. But at the heart of it, what makes Hawaii so unforgettable is the love and respect for nature, the incredible marine life, and the raw, unexplainable magic of the islands themselves. There’s no place in the world I’ve been that compares.
Salt Lake City & Park City, Utah
Another awesome spot in the U.S. is the Salt Lake City and Park City area of Utah. This region is a peaceful mountain escape with so much natural beauty to take in. Whether you’re skiing and soaking up the cozy ski town vibes of Park City, exploring Antelope Island for wildlife and nature, or visiting the surreal Bonneville Salt Flats, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable outdoor experience. The atmosphere here is super laid-back, with endless ways to get outside and enjoy the scenery. We swam in natural hot springs, hiked around Olympic Park, and biked through Antelope Island at sunset. Even just driving through this area, the mountain views are absolutely stunning and hard to beat. It’s the perfect place for anyone craving fresh air and outdoor adventure.
Denver & Boulder, Colorado
Denver and Boulder, Colorado, are another favorite of mine when it comes to mountain towns in the U.S. The nature and mountain views here are absolutely beautiful and bring such a sense of peace. With so many sunny days, it’s always pleasant to be outside, whether you’re hiking, walking around, or simply soaking in the scenery.
Both downtown areas are super cute, with plenty of great spots to grab food, coffee, or just enjoy a casual stroll. The people here are incredibly kind, down-to-earth, and bring a laid-back, outdoorsy vibe that I love. There’s a hippie, nature-loving energy in this region that makes it such a fun and relaxing place to be. Being surrounded by the Rocky Mountains here is truly something special.
San Diego, California
If you’re into the beach but still want a lively city atmosphere, San Diego is the perfect spot. It’s a beautiful coastal city with endless things to do, and it’s conveniently close to both major cities and smaller beach towns in California. From surf spots and scenic parks to laid-back beaches and vibrant neighborhoods, there’s always something to explore.
San Diego itself is super cute, with amazing places to eat, a fun nightlife scene, and incredible ocean views everywhere you go. The weather is warm year-round, and the city attracts a diverse, active community of people with all kinds of interests and hobbies. It’s the perfect place to enjoy both the outdoors and everything city life has to offer.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Another great spot is Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a charming and unique mountain town tucked in the Smoky Mountains. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find cozy cabins and bear-themed everything around every corner. Gatlinburg blends that sweet Southern hospitality with a laid-back mountain village vibe, making it a really fun and memorable place to visit.
The downtown area is small but super cute, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and local spots to explore. You can take scenic chair lifts up the mountains for incredible views, hike through beautiful nature trails, and if you’re lucky, even spot some bears up close. It’s such a fun and peaceful getaway that feels like a must-visit when exploring the South.
Rhode Island
Lastly is Rhode Island. It may be the smallest state, but in the summer, it’s a spot you don’t want to miss. While it has some fun cities, what really makes Rhode Island special are its charming coastal beach towns. The beaches here are beautiful, with long stretches of sand, classic New England flowers in bloom, and that iconic seaside vibe that makes summers in this region feel so special.
It’s the perfect place to relax on the beach, wander through quaint small towns, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re planning a full summer vacation or just a weekend getaway, Rhode Island offers a peaceful and picturesque escape that captures the best of New England.
Places Still on My List
Beyond the places I’ve already explored, there are still so many spots in the U.S. I’m excited to visit. This country is incredibly diverse, with a wide range of landscapes, climates, wildlife, and natural wonders to experience.
Here are a few places still at the top of my list:
- Yosemite National Park
- Washington State
- The Oregon Coast
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Maine
- More U.S. National Parks
- Alaska
I know there’s still a whole world to explore within our own borders, and I can’t wait to continue discovering the beauty and variety this country has to offer.
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