As a solo traveler who’s explored all 50 states and every major US national park, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the country’s diversity and beauty firsthand.
Though the most meaningful travel experiences vary by individual, certain places are so awe-inspiring that I think everyone should experience them at least once. Here are six of them.
Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park is unlike anywhere else in the US.
Standing at the edge of the 278-mile Grand Canyon is a humbling experience.
The perspective from above on the rim (or from below if you’re hiking) reminds me of the vastness of the world and how small we really are.
The views at sunrise and sunset are especially breathtaking. With a diverse ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and lots of recreation opportunities, Grand Canyon National Park is a destination that must be seen to be understood.
New Orleans has a unique soul.
New Orleans’ Creole architecture, widespread live music, street art, and delicious food give it a soul I haven’t found anywhere else in the US.
The many festivals and celebrations, including Mardi Gras, set the city apart and help make a visit to New Orleans an experience.
The Great Lakes offer breathtaking scenery.
As someone who grew up in the Midwest, I don’t think this part of the country gets the credit it deserves. Many people still refer to it as “flyover country,” suggesting there’s not much to do or see in this part of the US.
However, the Midwest is full of natural beauty, and places like the Great Lakes are worth visiting. The five interconnected freshwater lakes — Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario — boast some incredible landscapes.
From the idyllic Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior to the majesty of Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago, this region offers something for everyone.
New York City has an unbeatable energy.
New York City has diverse neighborhoods, world-class art and museums, and an energy you won’t find anywhere else.
The city’s historical significance can’t be overstated. Its status as a fashion, financial, and media hub means there’s always something new to see.
Northern New Mexico is a special part of the country.
Though I love all of New Mexico, the northern part of the state is distinct, with its wide-open spaces and unique art and cultural experiences.
The tourist areas of Santa Fe and Taos offer ample opportunities for shopping and visiting museums, art galleries, and restaurants. But if you’re looking for a lesser-known spot, I recommend checking out the Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center, where visitors can spend a day hiking or horseback riding.
Yosemite National Park in California is full of natural beauty.
California is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes, but Yosemite National Park really stands out.
Yosemite’s granite cliffs are among the most impressive natural formations in the world. The park is also home to magnificent waterfalls and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, where visitors can walk among over 500 of these trees.
This story was originally published on December 2, 2024, and most recently updated on April 21, 2026.
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