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100 Best Places to Visit in the USA

From the breathtaking fjords of Alaska and the fertile wine-growing regions of California, to the white sunny beaches of Florida and the bizarre rock formations of Utah, the United States offers some of the most diverse landscapes on Earth.

With over 79.6 million tourists in 2018, it is the third most visited country in the world after France and Spain.

Whether by the ocean or in the heart of the desert, American cities are among the most exciting in the world.

Known for their architecture and modern engineering facilities, they are a complex mix of different cultures and lifestyles.

Although there are thousands of places worth visiting in this vast country, we suggest you take a look at 100 of the most iconic of them:

100. Joshua Tree National Park (CA)

Joshua Tree National Park is a deserted territory, located in the southernmost part of Mojave Desert, in Southern California.

Established on October 31, 1994, it has a total area of 790,636 acres (3,199.6 km²).

The park is named after a local species of tree, which is known as Joshua Tree or Yucca brevifolia and is quite common in the area.

The tree is well-known for its unusual appearance as well as for its resistance to prolonged periods of severe droughts and high temperatures.

The national park is easy to reach as it is located only 136 miles from Downtown Los Angeles.

99. White Sands National Monument (NM)

Established on January 18, 1933, White Sands National Monument is a protected territory, which is located in Southern New Mexico, approximately 60 miles north of the Mexican border.

It covers a total area of 145,762 acres (589.88 km²) and welcomes about 600,000 visitors per year.

It is known for its extremely white soft sands.

Since it is located in quite a hot and dry deserted area, you can expect high temperatures for most of the year.

For this reason, the best time to visit White Sands National Monument is late autumn (November and December) and early spring (March and April).

On December 20, 2019, the national monument was declared a national park.

98. Aspen (CO)

Aspen is the most popular mountain tourist town in the U.S.

It is located in the Rocky Mountains, in Central Colorado.

It lies in a glacial valley, approximately 8,000 feet (2,400 m) above sea level.

The area enjoys a rare combination between heavy snowfalls and sunny clear days for most of the year, which attracts hundreds of thousands of winter sports lovers from across the country.

The city welcomes more than 1.5 million visitors per year, including a number of celebrities.

Dozens of cultural events, including music and film festivals, are held every year in Aspen, most of them during the summer season.

97. Death Valley (CA)

Death Valley National Monument was established on February 11, 1933.

Located in Southern California, not far from the Nevada border, it is known as one of the hottest and most inhospitable places in the world.

On July 10, 1913, it was measured 134°F (56.7°C), which is the second highest temperature on Earth ever.

The valley is known for its beautiful and unique landscape as well as for its sailing stones.

Since summers are unbearably hot, the best time to visit the Death Valley is the winter season between October and May.

Even in January the average daytime temperature is between 64 and 68°F (between 18 and 20°C).

96. Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)

Located in Northern Arizona, the Grand Canyon was formed approximately 5 or 6 million years ago.

It falls within Grand Canyon National Park, which was established on February 26, 1919.

The national park covers a territory of approximately 1,217,262 acres (4,926.08 km 2 ) and was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979.

The maximum depth of the canyon is 6000.7 feet (or 1829 meters).

Since summers and winters are quite harsh, the best time to visit the national park is spring and autumn, which bring the most pleasant temperatures over the year.

95. Dry Tortugas National Park (FL)

Florida is often described as being a true paradise for people and wildlife, and Dry Tortugas National Park is a perfect example of that.

Established on January 4th, 1935, it includes seven islands and an impressive unfinished brick fortress, called Fort Jefferson.

The islands are situated amidst turquoise waters and are known for their white sands and well-preserved shallow coral reefs.

The natural beauty of the islands, in combination with their year-round warm tropical climate, attracts tens of thousands of visitors per year.

The national park is located approximately 68 miles west of Key West, Florida.

94. Cape Cod (MA)

Cape Cod is a 60-mile long L-shaped peninsula in Eastern Massachusetts, New England.

It is known for its scenic little towns and traditional villages as well as for its fantastic golden beaches.

Cape Cod National Seashore is the main tourist attraction in the area.

It is a protected territory, which covers approximately 40 miles of fabulous beaches, grasslands and ponds along the Atlantic coast.

Established on August 7, 1961, the area is very attractive during the summer months.

Another landmark are the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, which are located right next to the south of Cape Cod.

They are quite popular from the 1975 American thriller movie “Jaws”.

93. Waikiki Beach (HI)

Hawaii is well-known for its fabulous beaches and Waikiki is one of them.

It is considered the most beautiful man-made beach in the world.

It offers a 2 miles long stretch of soft golden sand and shallow turquoise waters.

Because of the incredibly good underwater visibility and shallow reefs, Waikiki attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world.

The weather is perfect, no matter the season.

The coldest months along the southern shore of Oahu are January and February with daytime temperatures of around 80.1°F (26.7°C) and the warmest is August with up to 88.7°F (31.5°C).

92. Monument Valley (AZ, UT)

Often mentioned as a national park, Monument Valley is actually a territory which entirely falls within the Navajo Nation.

It covers a significant area in Northern Arizona and Southern Utah.

The most iconic part of Monument Valley is Hunts Mesa.

It is known for its 984 feet (almost 300 meters) tall red-colored rock formations.

Shaped by millions of years of erosion, they dominate the surrounding landscape.

The area is one of the most highly recommended tourist attractions in the United States.

You should know in advance, however, that you can visit this place only by guided tour.

91. Emerald Coast (FL)

Approximately 100 miles (161 km) long, the Emerald Coast offers the most irresistible beaches along the shore of the continental United States.

It stretches through 5 counties in Northwestern Florida and includes cities such as Destin, Niceville, Panama City Beach and Mexico Beach.

It is known for its extraordinary white soft sands and warm emerald waters.

Since it is located on the Gulf of Mexico, the best time of the year to visit the Emerald Coast is April (74°F/23°C), May (82°F/28°C) and October (79°F/26°C).

90. The Capitol Building (Washington, D.C.)

The Capitol Building, officially known as the United States Capitol, is located in Capitol Hill, which is one of the most beautiful historic neighbourhoods of Washington, D.C.

The construction started on September 18, 1793, and completed in 1800.

The name “Capitol” comes from Latin and was an idea of Thomas Jefferson.

The building was partially burned during the War of 1812 (an armed conflict between the United States and the United Kingdom of Great Britain) and was completely restored by 1819.

89. Denali National Park (AK)

Established on February 26, 1917, Denali National Park covers a territory of approximately 4,740,911 acres (19,185.79 km 2 ) in the central part of Southern Alaska.

It welcomes more than half a million visitors per year, most of which coming during the summer months.

The northwestern part of the park is dominated by dense pine forests, deep rivers and wonderful glacial lakes, while the southeastern half is mostly occupied by the Alaska Range.

The highest peak in North America, Denali, is located in the heart of the national park.

Also known as Mount McKinley, it is 20,310 feet (6,190.5 meters) high and is covered in permanent snow and ice.

It is considered one of the most isolated mountains on Earth.

The best time of the year to visit Denali National Park is in July.

It brings mild weather with temperatures of 57°F (nearly 14°C) and plenty of sunshine.

88. Disneyland (CA)

Opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park in California is considered the most popular amusement park in the world.

It is located in Anaheim, Los Angeles and attracts approximately 18.6 million visitors per year (as of 2018).

Initially created as a park mainly for children, Disneyland Resort (as it is officially called today) is even more attractive to adults.

It is known for its roller coasters, carousels, Ferris wheels, magical castles and famous fairy tales and cartoon characters, which create a really magical atmosphere.

87. Las Vegas Strip (NV)

Also known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World”, Las Vegas was established on May 15, 1905.

As of January 1, 2020, there are 222 casinos in the entire county.

More than 50 of them are concentrated along the “Strip”, which is the nickname of the main central boulevard of the city and the biggest tourist attraction in Nevada.

The “Strip”, whose official name is Las Vegas Boulevard, is known for its hundreds of thousands of LED lights, so the best time of the day to come here is after sunset.

Full of restaurants, hotels and gambling halls, the street is always busy and crowded with tourists after dark, especially on public holidays and on weekends.

86. Three Pools (OR)

Established on September 30, 1996, the Willamette National Forest is known for some of the most irresistible swimming holes in America.

Hidden deep in the dense Duglas fir forests of Opal Creek Wilderness in Oregon, the Santiam River is a small and crystal clear mountain river, which offers a few wonderful small natural pools with emerald waters.

Every summer they attract thousands of visitors.

Located on the North Fork of the river, Three Pools are quite cold even in summer with temperatures of between 45°F and 55°F (between 7°C and 13°C).

85. Antelope Canyon (AZ)

Located less than 5 miles southeast of Page, Northern Arizona, Antelope Canyon is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in the United States.

It is about 120 feet (37 meters) deep and consists of two parts Upper and Lower Canyon.

Since it falls within the Navajo Nation, you need a special permission to go there, and you can visit the area only as part of a tourist group.

As the canyon is very narrow and deep, it is considered very difficult to take a really good picture of it.

84. Alcatraz Island (CA)

Surrounded by the cold waters and powerful ocean currents of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island was listed into the U.S. National Register of Historical Places in 1986.

The main tourist attraction on the island is, of course, the building of the prison, which served as a maximum security federal prison between August 11, 1934, and March 21, 1963.

For the 29 years of operation, the prison gained the reputation of being the toughest prison in the United States.

Nowadays, the building of the prison serves as a museum and attracts more than 1.5 million visitors per year.

83. Walk of Fame (CA)

Located in Hollywood, the Walk of Fame is an extraordinary place.

Established on February 8, 1960, it covers a few blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Boulevard.

It is known for its ceramic tiles, traditionally designed in a black-and-coral color.

Every single star is decorated with the name of a celebrity from the world of show business.

Because of its cultural and tourist importance, on July 5, 1978, the Walk of Fame was declared a Historic-Cultural Monument.

82. Mammoth Cave National Park (KY)

Located in the dense forests of Central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave is the largest cave system on Earth.

Its galeries reach the incredible length of 400 miles, only a small part of which can be explored by tourists.

It falls within Mammoth Cave National Park, which covers a total area of 52,830 acres (213.8 km²) and was established on July 1, 1941.

In 1981 the cave was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is known for its impressive variety of rare species of animals, including a few species of bats.

81. Arches National Park (UT)

Located in the eastern part of Utah, Arches National Park is a popular tourist destination.

First established as a national monument on April 12, 1929, today it welcomes almost 1.7 million visitors per year.

It is known for its eroded rocks which form incredible natural bridges and arches in saturated red and orange colors.

Most of the rock formations are approximately 65 million years old.

They are scattered all over the national park, which covers a total area of 76,679 acres (310.31 km²).

The best time to visit the arches is late spring and early autumn.

80. Niagara Falls (NY)

Located right on the border between the United States (New York) and Canada (Ontario), Niagara Falls is considered one of the most beautiful and famous waterfalls in the world.

Declared a state park in 1885, nowadays it welcomes more than 9.5 million visitors.

The waterfall consists of three drops and is 167 feet (51 meters) tall.

Being the oldest state park in the United States, it was added to the National Register of Historical Places on October 15, 1966.

The waterfall serves as an important source of fresh water and hydroelectric power.

79. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis (MO)

Situated in a very beautiful park on the west bank of the Mississippi River, the 630 feet (192 meters) Gateway Arch is one of the main attractions of St. Louis, Missouri.

It plays a symbolic role because the city has always been considered a door between the Eastern and the Western United States.

The construction started in 1963 and completed in 1968, 5 years later.

Being the tallest monument in the world, the arch attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors per year.

78. Key West (FL)

Key West is a small and beautiful island in the western part of the archipelago of Florida Keys, in Southern Florida.

It is considered the most interesting of all islands in the chain because of its historical downtown and wonderful colonial architecture.

From 1931 to 1939 in one of the old houses (now museum) lived the writer Ernest Hemingway, the author of the famous novel “The Old Man and the Sea”.

Key West is known also for its wonderful year round warm tropical climate and coral reefs.

The best time of the year to visit this lovely place is between October and April.

77. Glacier National Park (MT)

Glacier National Park is located in an isolated and remote area in Northwestern Montana, right next to the Canada border.

The first thing you see when you visit this place for the first time is its out of this world natural beauty.

You feel like you are in the most secluded place on Earth and this is partially true.

There are no big cities in a radius of 150 miles, and the closest one is actually Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta.

The national park is dominated by rugged mountain ridges, glacial lakes, dense pine forests and crystal clear mountain rivers.

The park covers an area of 1,013,322 acres (4,100.77 km²) and is a dream come true for experienced hikers.

In 1995, Glacier National Park was inscribed in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

76. Museum of Modern Art – MoMA (NY)

Established in 1929, the Museum of Modern Art “MoMA” is one of the most popular and visited contemporary art museums in the world.

Located on West 53rd Street in Manhattan, it is housed in an old but modern-looking building.

Here you can see a great variety of inspiring exhibitions as well as world famous works of Monet, Dali and Picasso.

75. Havasu Creek (AZ)

Located within Grand Canyon National Park, Northern Arizona, Havasu Creek is a tributary of the Colorado River and is known for its wonderful series of 6 large and a number of smaller waterfalls.

They are situated within a walking distance of each other.

Beaver Falls and Mooney Falls are the most famous of them.

Mooney is 100 feet tall (almost 30 meters) and is very impressive.

Beaver Falls is very different, unique and extraordinary looking.

It is known for its wonderful natural pools, irresistible for their turquoise color.

It reminds of a wonderful staircase of small drops.

The best time to visit Havasu Creek is spring and autumn.

74. Art Deco Historic District, Miami Beach (FL)

The Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach is one of the most recognizable and popular spots in Florida.

It covers approximately 5,750 acres (2,330 ha) in the southern part of Miami Beach and is known for its bright and colorful buildings.

Most of them date from the period between the late 1920s and early 1940s.

On May 14, 1979, the district was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The main attraction in the area is the famous thoroughfare Ocean Drive where most of the hotels and restaurants are.

73. Mount Rainier National Park (WA)

Mount Rainier National Park was established on March 2, 1899, and is one of the oldest protected territories in the United States.

Located in the Cascades of Central Washington, the park covers an area of approximately 236,381 acres (956.60 km²).

It is known for its old-growth untouched rainforests as well as for its variety of wild animals, including black bears, grizzly bears, mountain lions, wolves, bobcats, marmots, elks, bald eagles and many others.

Here you can find wonderful tourist trails, and the best time to visit the park is in summer, especially in July and August.

72. The Glass Beaches of Fort Bragg (CA)

Every year tens of thousands of people visit one of the most extraordinary places in California.

It comes to a group of three small beaches on the coast of the city of Fort Bragg, in the northern part of the state.

Between 1906 and 1967, they served as dump sites and were used for disposal of glass, metal and other waste materials.

After decades of attempts by people and organizations to clean the beach, today you can see only the smallest pieces of glass on the shore.

They were perfectly polished by the waves and now the beaches are covered not with pebbles but with small jewelry-looking pieces of glass.

71. Gulf State Park (AL)

The beaches of Alabama have always been underrated but they actually are among the most beautiful in North America.

Established in 1939, Gulf State Park is a very good example.

It covers 6,500 acres (26 km 2 ) along the coast, west of Gulf Shores.

The area offers approximately 2.5 miles of extraordinarily white sands and emerald waters.

The climate in the area is very warm, so you can swim into the gulf between early April and late October.

With temperatures between 59 and 68°F (or between 15 and 20°C), the weather during the winter season is perfect for long walks.

Don’t miss to visit and explore the city of Gulf Shores.

Along the coast you can see very beautiful traditional beach houses, built on pillars directly on the sand.

They are one of the tourist attractions here.

Another popular landmark is the saltwater lagoon, where you can see sometimes even small alligators.

70. Cannon Beach (OR)

Cannon Beach is a small but very popular tourist city.

It lies on the northern coast of Oregon and is easily recognizable because of the emblematic coastal Haystack Rock, rising up approximately 235 feet (72 meters) above sea surface.

The city is well-known from the movies “The Goonies” /1985/ and “Point Break” /1991/ and is popular with people from across the country because of its annual sandcastle contest.

69. Space Needle (WA)

The Space Needle is an important tourist attraction and an observation tower in the heart of Seattle, Washington.

Completed on December 8, 1961, it is 604 feet (184 meters) tall and reveals the most spectacular 360-degree city panorama on the West Coast.

If you want to enjoy the best experience, you should visit the Space Needle at dusk when the combination of city lights and natural light is just breathtaking.

68. Savannah (GA)

Without doubt Savannah is the most recommended historical city to visit on the East Coast of the United States.

Established in 1733, it is known for its long and rich history and lavish colonial architecture.

After being established, the city flourished rapidly because of its warm humid climate and very rich soils, which appeared to be the perfect combination for cotton production.

Today Savannah is an important tourist center with numerous bars, restaurants and hotels.

If you want to feel the spirit of the past, don’t miss to visit the Wormsloe Historic Site, also known as Wormsloe Plantation.

It is known for its 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long rural avenue, shaded by hundreds of beautiful oak trees.

67. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (HI)

Established on August 1, 1916, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is really worth a visit.

It covers an area of 323,431 acres (1,308.88 km 2 ) in the southern and southeastern part of Hawaii.

If you want to get a better idea of what it really looks like, the best option is to book a helicopter flight over the island.

The main attractions are Kilauea (the most active volcano on Earth) and Mauna Loa (the largest volcano on the planet).

In 1978 Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

66. Atlantic City (NJ)

Established on May 1, 1854, Atlantic City is the most popular tourist city in the Northeast of the United States.

It is situated on the Atlantic shore, in the southeastern part of New Jersey.

Being only 98 miles away from New York, it attracts a number of visitors during the weekends and on public holidays.

Atlantic City is known for its 4 miles long stretch of golden sand as well as for its lively boardwalk with numerous bars, restaurants, casinos and shops.

65. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis (MO)

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis was constructed between 1907 and 1914.

It is 227 feet (69 meters) tall and is the most important landmark in the city of Saint Louis.

It combines two very different architectural styles – Neo-Byzantine and Romanesque Revival.

The cathedral is very popular for its wonderful mosaics, which consist of the incredible 41.5 million pieces of glass tiles.

64. Flatiron Building (NY)

You will find one of the most remarkable buildings in New York on 5th Avenue and Broadway in Manhattan.

Completed in 1902, the Flatiron serves as an office building and is well-known for its beautiful Renaissance Revival style architecture.

What makes one of the oldest skyscrapers unique and memorable, however, is its wedge-shaped structure.

The elegant skyscraper is 285 feet (86.9 meter) tall, and upon its completion, it was one of the most high-rise buildings in the United States.

63. Hollywood (CA)

Hollywood is a neighbourhood in the northern part of central Los Angeles and one of the most popular places in the world.

Being too noisy, crowded and expensive, it is definitely not to everyone’s taste.

At the same time, it is really iconic and acts as a magnet for people.

Established in 1886 as a ranch, today is the epicenter of show business and film industry.

Most of the major film studios are located here.

Some of the most popular museums in the city, such as Madame Tussauds and Hollywood Museum, are located in this part of LA too.

Not to mention the emblematic Hollywood Sign, created in 1923 and designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument on February 7, 1973.

The best time to visit Hollywood is spring and autumn.

62. Empire State Building (NY)

With its 1,224 feet (373.1 meters) to the top floor and 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) to the tip, Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world until 1970.

The construction of the Art Deco skyscraper located on 350 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan started on March 17, 1930, and completed on April 11, 1931, one year later.

Being an icon of modern architecture, the 102-floor building is visible from different parts of the city.

It dominates the skyline of Manhattan and attracts more than 4 million visitors per year.

On November 17, 1982, Empire State Building was added to the U.S. Register of Historical Places, and on June 24, 1986, was declared a National Historical Landmark.

61. Graceland Mansion (TN)

Graceland is a Colonial Revival style mansion, built in 1939 in Tennessee.

On March 19, 1957, Elvis Presley bought the property in the outskirts of Memphis and moved there.

He lived in the mansion with his family until his death on August 16, 1977.

The real estate covers a total area of 13.8 acres (5.6 hectares).

At the time when Elvis purchased the mansion, it was a few miles south of the city itself and was surrounded by a romantic rural landscape.

60. Hamilton Pool Preserve (TX)

Hamilton Pool is part of the Hamilton Pool Preserve, which covers a total area of approximately 232 acres (0.94 km 2 ).

The protected territory is located nearly 20 miles west of Austin and in summer attracts thousands of sunbathers and swimmers.

Hamilton Pool is known for its reputation of being the most beautiful and also the most extraordinary swimming hole in the United States.

It was formed thousands of years ago when the sandstone ceiling of a cave collapsed as a result of erosion.

Nowadays, the huge hole in the rock reveals a very beautiful underground river.

The natural pool is additionally “decorated” with a beautiful 49 feet (almost 15 meters) tall waterfall, which in summer usually disappears completely.

The emerald pool is 25 feet deep (about 7.62 meters), and the water is only about 50°F (10°C).

There is a small and cozy beach in one of the corners.

59. Mount Rushmore (SD)

Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore National Monument is located in Black Hills, not far from Keystone, South Dakota.

It depicts the U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

It took the workers more than 14 years to carve the 60-foot (more than 18 meters) sculptures into the granite rock.

Nowadays, the monument attracts approximately 2.5 million visitors per year.

58. Oneonta Gorge (OR)

The Oneonta Gorge is a unique habitat of rare species of animals and plants.

It is located in the Columbia River Gorge and is well-known for its dramatic landscape.

The narrow canyon is considered to be approximately 25 million years old.

Being one of the most interesting hiking spots on the West Coast of the United States, the gorge offers some really scenic waterfalls to enjoy.

June and especially July are the best months to visit Oneonta Gorge, although it offers very good weather conditions until the end of September.

57. Field Museum of Natural History (IL)

Established in 1893, Field Museum of Natural History is one of the most recommended to visit in the United States and in the world.

Located on 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, it is known for its amazing collection, which attracts more than 1.6 million visitors per year.

Probably the most interesting exhibit is Sue, the largest and most complete skeleton of Tyrannosaurus rex ever found.

The skeleton was discovered on August 12, 1990 in South Dakota.

56. La Jolla Beach (CA)

With its natural beauty and charm, La Jolla Beach is one of the top destinations of San Diego and is considered one of the most recommended beaches in California.

Approximately 1 mile long, it offers a superb stretch of soft white sand and definitely smaller waves in comparison with other parts of California.

If you want to swim into the ocean, you should know that the Pacific along the coast of California is usually cold for most of the year.

With temperatures reaching up to 72°F (around 22°C), however, September is the best time to take a dip in the water.

55. Zion National Park (UT)

Zion National Park covers an area of 146,597 acres (593.26 km 2 ) in Southwestern Utah.

It was established on November 19, 1919.

The area is dominated by the huge Zion Canyon.

Being approximately 2000 feet (almost 610 meters) deep, it is the second deepest canyon in the United States.

Its formation started approximately 150 million years ago.

However, the current shape of the canyon was acquired about 1.1 million years ago.

March, April and October are considered the best months to visit the area.

54. The Statue of Liberty (NY)

Officially dedicated on October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty is one of the symbols of New York and one of the most famous sculptures on Earth.

It is located on Liberty Island at the entrance of the Port of New York and New Jersey.

The huge neoclassical copper monument is 151 feet (46 meters) tall but together with the pedestal, it rises 305 feet (93 meters) above the ground.

Designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the sculpture is a symbol of freedom and is a gift from France to the United States to commemorate the friendship between the nations.

On October 15, 1924, the statue was declared a National Monument.

In 1984, it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

53. The White House (Washington, D.C.)

The White House is one of the most iconic buildings in the United States.

It is located on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Its construction started in 1792 and completed in 1800, eight years later.

It was designed by the talented Irish architect James Hoban.

The building is a mixture between Neoclassical and Palladian architecture.

It is known for its wonderful gardens and fountains.

The first residents of the White House were President John Adams and his family.

52. Apostle Islands (WI)

The Apostle Islands is an archipelago of 22 sparsely populated islands, located in Lake Superior, in the northernmost part of Wisconsin.

They are known for their beautiful lighthouses, pristine beaches, ancient forests, unique ecosystem and rich biodiversity.

The most famous of all the islands in the area is Devils Island, which is one of the smallest and one of the most isolated as well.

It is quite popular for its sea caves along its northern shore.

The islands fall within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which is a protected territory, established on September 26, 1970.

As the climate in Northern Wisconsin is quite cold for most of the year, the best time to visit this place is the summer season, from early June till late August.

51. Mesa Verde National Park (CO)

Located in Southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park was established in 1906.

It covers 52,485 acres (212.40 km 2 ) and is considered the largest archaeological preserve on the territory of the United States.

It protects more than 500 archaeological sites within its borders, the most popular of which definitely is the Cliff Palace.

The national park welcomes more than half a million visitors per year.

In 1978, the park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

50. Beverly Hills (CA)

Beverly Hills is one the most expensive cities in the world (yes, Beverly Hills is not a neighbourhood but a city!).

Apart from its multi million dollar villas and mansions, the community in northern Los Angeles is a luxury tourist destination which has a lot to offer.

It is a real paradise for shopping and having fun.

One of the top attractions is Rodeo Drive, which is considered to be the most prestigious shopping street in the world.

Another place not to be missed is the Greystone Mansion and Gardens, which serves as a prestigious background of various cultural and social events, Hollywood productions and many others.

49. The Pentagon (VA)

The Pentagon is situated on the west bank of the Potomac River in Washington.

It is considered to be not only the largest office building but also one of the largest buildings ever built in the world.

The structure consists of 5 floors and is 71 feet (21 meters) high.

Its floor area is the amazing 6,636,360 square feet (620,000 m 2 )!

As you can see, the name comes from the shape of the building.

48. Washington Monument (Washington, DC)

The Washington Monument was completed in 1884.

It is located in the heart of a beautiful park and is one of the biggest landmarks in the U.S.

Being 555 feet high, it was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion and is still the biggest marble monument on the planet.

The obelisk is surrounded by 50 US flags, one for each state.

47. Central Park (NY)

With a length of 2.58 miles (4.15 km) and perfectly rectangular shape, Central Park is definitely one of the most famous urban parks in the world.

Often referred to as “the Lungs of New York”, the huge green space in the heart of the city is exactly what its residents need.

Here you can enjoy a number of outdoor activities, including walking, jogging, cycling, golf or just a relaxing picnic under the pleasant shade of the trees.

Officially, the park was established on May 23, 1963.

46. Mono Lake (CA)

Mono Lake is located in the eastern central parts of California, not far from the Nevada border.

Situated at more than 6,365 feet (nearly 1,940 meters) above sea level, the lake is slowly drying up.

Since the early 40es, it has been serving as one of the main supplies of freshwater for Los Angeles, which is the second largest city in the U.S. after New York.

The lake itself is very beautiful and is well-known for its dramatic colors, especially during the golden hour before sunset.

In the middle of the lake there is a large island, called Paoha.

45. Wailea Beach (HI)

Wailea Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Magnificent and romantic, it is located on the west coast of Maui.

Because of its golden shades and fine soft texture, it is a favourite place for honeymooners and holidaymakers.

Right next to the beach you can enjoy the tempting shade of coconut palms and other tropical species of trees.

44. Fairmount Park (PA)

With its 2,052 acres (830 ha), Fairmount Park is considered the largest urban green space in the United States.

It is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and consists of two sections – East Park and West Park.

Being much bigger even than the popular Central Park in New York, it offers a number of opportunities to spend your time outside.

Developed along the banks of Schuylkill River, the historical park offers hundreds of shady paths and trails to explore, a lovely Japanese-style garden, wonderful small ponds and fountains.

43. Isle Royale National Park (MI)

Located in Lake Superior near the United States – Canada border, Isle Royale covers an area 206.73 sq mi (535.4 km 2 ).

It is known for its stunning natural beauty which takes visitor’s breath away.

The landscape is typical of North America and is dominated by lush evergreen pine forests but also by some broad leaf species of trees.

Its clean natural environment attracts tourists in all four seasons.

Here you can see a great variety of species of animals, including wolf, beaver, lynx and moos.

Beside the main island, Isle Royale National Park also includes the territories of 450 smaller islets in the area.

42. Mount Hood National Forest (OR)

Mount Hood National Forest is considered the best place in the United States to hike.

Established on July 1, 1908, it covers a total area of 1,071,466 acres (4,336.07 km 2 ) in the central part of Northern Oregon.

It offers hundreds of stunning tourist trails, waterfalls, swimming holes, gorges, rivers and snow capped mountain peaks.

It is a popular summer vacation spot.

Among the hundreds of must visit natural landmarks within the national forest, we should mention the wonderful Multnomah Falls and Little Crater Lake.

With a total height of 620 feet (189 meters), Multnomah Falls welcomes nearly 5 million visitors per year.

It is well known for its beauty as well as for the Multnomah Falls Bridge which reveals a spectacular view of the waterfall.

Little Crater Lake is another treasure within the borders of Mount Hood National Park.

With a max depth of about 45 feet (14 m), the spring-fed lake is known as the most clear in North America and in the world.

The sapphire blue water of the lake, however, barely exceeds the freezing temperature, even in July and August.

41. Dakota Building (NY)

The Dakota Building is a 10 floors high residential building, which is considered one of the most famous landmarks in New York.

You will find it at the corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West in Manhattan.

It is an architectural masterpiece and is a mix of Gothic Revival, Renaissance and Victorian architecture.

John Lennon had lived here with his wife Yoko Ono until his death on December 8, 1980.

If you want to pay tribute to John Lennon, you can do that by visiting his memorial.

You will find it in Central Park, only a few minutes walk from the Dakota Building.

40. Crater Lake (OR)

Crater Lake is one of the most significant landmarks in the Western United States.

It is located in Southern Oregon, not far from the California border.

It falls within the Crater Lake National Park , which was established on May 22, 1902.

The national park covers approximately 183,224 acres (741.48 km²).

It is dominated by the huge 6 miles wide volcanic caldera of Mount Mazama, whose last eruption was in 2850 BC.

Inside the caldera itself is the wonderful Crater Lake, which is known for its unique deep blue color.

Being 1,949 feet (594 meters) deep, it is the ninth deepest lake on Earth and the second deepest in North America.

39. Madison Square Garden (NY)

Located on East 26th Street and Madison Avenue in Manhattan, Madison Square Garden is one of the most famous and emblematic buildings in New York.

The construction started on October 29, 1964, and the building was officially opened on February 11, 1968.

Often described as a wonder of modern architecture, MSG is a place where numerous sport and cultural events are being held every year, including concerts and important basketball tournaments.

38. Chimney Rock (NE)

Mentioned for the first time in 1827, the Chimney Rock was formed approximately 25 million years ago.

Because of its historical importance, the Chimney Rock, Nebraska, was designated a National Historic Site on August 9, 1956.

It was described multiple times during the first half of the 19th century by pioneers traveling from New England to California and Oregon.

The closest town to the rock is Bayard, which is less than 4 miles north.

37. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC/TN)

With 12,547,743 visitors in 2019, Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited protected territory within the United States.

It covers parts of Tennessee and North Carolina and is known for its beautiful mixed deciduous and coniferous forests as well as for its round-shaped mountains.

The most interesting feature of the national park is the thick bluish-gray mist which often covers the mountain valleys and peaks and can appear in any season.

In 1983, Great Smoky Mountains National Park was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

36. Lanikai Beach (HI)

The islands of Hawaii have always been known for their outstanding beaches.

One of the most irresistible is Lanikai Beach, located on the east coast of Oahu.

Dotted with palm groves, it is considered the best beach in the United States.

It is popular with tourists for its soft white sands and crystal clear turquoise water.

Lanikai Beach is a relatively narrow stretch of sand with a total length of nearly one mile.

35. Montezuma Castle (AZ)

Created between 1100 and 1450 AD, Montezuma Castle is one of the most interesting archaeological sites in the United States.

It is located approximately 3 miles north of Camp Verde, Central Arizona.

Carved into the limestone cliffs, Montezuma Castle was declared a national monument on December 8, 1906.

Since summers are quite hot here, the best time to visit this place is in spring and autumn.

34. Saint Augustine (FL)

Saint Augustin is a small tourist town in Northeast Florida, which is known for its wonderful beaches.

It enjoys lovely warm weather with plenty of sunny and clear days for most of the year.

Except for its golden sands, the small coastal community is known also as an important historical town.

Established by Spanish settlers in 1565, Saint Augustin is the oldest continuously inhabited city founded by European settlers on the territory of the United States.

33. French Quarter (LA)

Established in 1718, the French Quarter is among the oldest neighbourhoods in the South of the United States and is also one of the most beautiful.

It is known for its charming squares, busy shopping streets, lovely gardens, jazz clubs and fantastic restaurants but mostly for its unique Spanish colonial (yes, Spanish) architecture.

Most of the buildings were completed during the 18th century and are characterized by richly decorated exterior facades, arched windows and elegant terraces and verandas.

32. Horseshoe Bend (AZ)

Located in Northern Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is an important tourist attraction, which welcomes more than 2.2 million visitors per year.

The 1,000 feet (305 meters) deep canyon was formed approximately 200 million years ago, and today it falls within the borders of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

It is known for the dramatic view of the 270° bend.

Autumn is considered the best time of the year to visit Horseshoe Bend, although spring and winter months have their advantages too.

Summer is beautiful but it is better to avoid because of the huge number of visitors and too high temperatures of between 90 and 100°F (between 32 and 38°C).

31. SeaWorld (CA)

Opened in San Diego on March 21, 1964, “SeaWorld” is one of the most popular oceanariums in the world.

Here you can enjoy close encounters with different species of fresh and saltwater creatures, including turtles and sharks.

The biggest attraction is the wide variety of show programs with dolphins, sea lions and orcas.

The park also offers an amazing aqua park as well as an exciting roller coaster together with many other entertainments.

30. Golden Gate Bridge (CA)

Opened on April 19, 1933, Golden Gate Bridge is one of the symbols of the West Coast of the United States.

The total length of the bridge is 8,980 feet (2,737.1 m) and the clearance below is 220 feet (67.1 m).

The central span of the bridge is 4,200 feet (1,280.2 m) long.

What makes Golden Gate different and unique is its orange color with light reddish shades, known as international orange.

According to the initial plans, the orange color was intended to be only a temporary decision against corrosion.

It turned out, however, that it complements the surrounding landscape perfectly, and it also makes the bridge more easily visible in dense fogs, which are quite frequent in the area.

29. Redwood National Park (CA)

Redwood National and State Park was established on October 2, 1968.

It covers a total area of 138,999 acres (562.51km²) along the Pacific coast of Northern California.

The old-growth forest is known for its redwood trees, which are considered the tallest on Earth.

Some of them are more than 328 feet (100 meters) tall.

The record belongs to a tree that was discovered in 2006.

It is currently 379.7 feet (115.7 m) tall but will probably grow even more in future.

According to scientists, it is between 600 and 800 years old.

28. Santa Monica (CA)

Santa Monica is a symbol of the beach lifestyle in California and is the place where the popular Route 66 ends.

It has always been very attractive because of its 5 miles long stretch of soft golden sand.

Between 1989 and 1999, however, it gained additional popularity thanks to the well-known TV series “Baywatch”.

One of the attractions in the area is the Santa Monica Pier, which is known from a number of movies and TV series.

Here you will also find a great amusement park, which attracts thousands of visitors every day, especially after sunset.

27. Molokai (HI)

With a total area of 260 mi² (670 km²), Molokai is the fifth largest island in the archipelago of Hawaii and is one of the least popular with tourists.

Most of the island is rural and wild, dominated by lush tropical forests, deep and dark canyons, scenic waterfalls, dramatic coastal cliffs, vast and sunny savanna valleys and pristine beaches.

The island is known for its coral reefs, which are considered the longest and the most impressive in Hawaii.

Molokai attracts mostly hikers and adventurers, who want to explore the islands of Hawaii outside the beaten roads.

Don’t miss the tallest waterfall in the United States. Called Pu’uka’oku Falls, it is approximately 2,756 feet (840 meters) and is the eight tallest in the world.

26. Catalina Island (CA)

Located only 27 miles (43.5 km) from Los Angeles, Santa Catalina Island is a popular weekend destination.

It combines great golden beaches, historical buildings and wonderful restaurants, so you can always find something interesting to do here.

Because of the casual and relaxed atmosphere of Avalon (the capital of the island), it has always been a popular spot for short romantic summer breaks.

One of the advantages of the small tourist island is that 88% of its territory is wild and untouched.

25. Guggenheim Museum (NY)

Opened on October 21, 1959, the Guggenheim Museum is one of the most recommended to visit museums in New York.

It is housed in a very beautiful and recognizable building, right next to Central Park, between 88th and 89th streets, on 5th Avenue.

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, it is one of the best examples of modern architecture.

Exhibitions on various topics are held here on a regular basis, so you will definitely find something to suit your taste.

The museum is free every Saturday between 5pm and 8pm.

24. Lincoln Memorial (Washington, D.C.)

Lincoln Memorial is located in Potomac Park, Washington.

Its construction started on February 12, 1914, on the east bank of the Potomac River and completed officially on May 30, 1922.

The Greek Revival style structure is 99 feet (30 meters) tall and 189.7 by 118.5 feet (57.8 by 36.1 m) wide.

Inside the Memorial you can see an impressive 19 feet (5.8 meters) Georgia marble monument of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States.

23. Napa Valley (CA)

Napa Valley is located about 50 miles north of San Francisco and 40 miles from the ocean.

As it is not situated directly on the coast, the weather here is quite different from San Francisco, especially during the summer season, which is much warmer and without fogs.

Because of the combination of mild Mediterranean climate and rich soils, Napa Valley is the top spot in the U.S. for wine lovers, and it offers a number of reputable wineries to visit.

The place is known for its high quality grape varieties, which are responsible for the excellent taste and aroma of the produced drinks.

22. Rocky Mountains National Park (CO)

Established on January 26, 1915, Rocky Mountains National Park covers approximately 265,461 acres (1,074.28 km²) in the central part of Northern Colorado.

Dominated by sharp snow covered mountain ridges, it is known for its wonderful glacial gorges, dense pine forests and crystal clear glacial lakes.

As of 2019, the park welcomes more than 4.6 million visitors from around the world.

June, July and August are absolutely the best months to visit the park.

They bring temperatures of about 68°F (20°C) during the day and between 39 and 47°F (approximately between 4 and 7°C) at night.

The park is known also for its great variety of wild animals, including elk, grizzly bear, mountain lion, moose and many others.

21. Venice Beach (CA)

Venice Beach is a tempting 2.8 miles long stretch of white soft sands and is one of the most popular beaches with young people in the United States.

It attracts surfers and sun seekers even in winter.

The coastal promenade is a favourite place for skateboarding, jogging, cycling, walking and buying souvenirs.

Venice Beach is known for its multi color wall murals, which are one of the symbols of the emblematic place.

The city itself was established in 1905. It had been an independent city until 1926 when it joined Los Angeles.

20. Chrysler Building (NY)

Known for its fine Art Deco architecture, Chrysler Building is one of the most emblematic structures in New York.

It is located at 405 Lexington Avenue, between 42nd and 43rd streets, in the East Side.

The construction started in 1928 and finished in 1930, 2 years later.

As of 2020, the 1,046 ft (318.9 m) skyscraper is still 11th tallest in New York.

Nowadays, almost a century later, the skyscraper with its pointed roof is still one of the most recognizable buildings in Manhattan.

19. Lahaina (HI)

Lahaina is a colorful and sunny tourist town but also an important historical settlement.

Located on the northwestern coast of Maui, it served as a capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii between 1820 and 1845.

Nowadays, you can find a number of architectural monuments and historical landmarks here, including the Old Fort, the Buddhist temple Hokoji Shingon Mission, the Baldwin Home (today museum) and many others.

18. Misty Fjords National Monument (AK)

Misty Fjords National Monument is a protected area, which is located in the southernmost part of Alaska, next to the Canadian province of British Columbia.

It occupies an area of 2,294,343 acres (9,246 km²).

It is the largest wilderness in Alaska and consists of hundreds of fjords, the largest of which is the Behm Canal (about 100 miles long).

Because of its geographic location, Misty Fjords National Monument enjoys a better climate compared to other parts of Alaska.

The place is a great opportunity to enjoy pristine nature and untouched pine forests.

17. Malibu (CA)

Malibu is a scenic and popular coastal community, which stretches along the coast northwest of Santa Monica.

On March 28,1991, it became an incorporated city.

Malibu is known for its affluent and famous residents, many of which are Hollywood celebrities.

One of the tourist attractions in the area are the luxury beachfront villas.

Malibu is known also for its surf culture, which has been flourishing since the summer of 1926.

16. Brooklyn Bridge (NY)

With a total length of 6,016 feet (1,833.7 meters) and clearance of approximately 127 feet (38.7 meters), Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most impressive structures completed in the world during the 19th century.

Its construction was a real challenge because of the difficult terrain and the unstable bottom of the East River.

The bridge was officially completed on May 24, 1883.

Today it is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world and still serves as one of the most important transport connections between Brooklyn and Manhattan.

15. Olympic National Park (WA)

Added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1981, Olympic National Park preserves one of the most beautiful pine forests across North America.

It was established on June 29, 1938, and is located in a mountainous area in Northwest Washington.

The park covers an area of approximately 922,650 acres (3,733.8 km²) and welcomes more than 3 million visitors annually.

The main tourist attractions of the national park are the 2.6 miles long Blue Glacier, Lake Crescent, Hoh Rainforest and the Hurricane Ridge.

Olympic National Park is home to a huge variety of species of animals, including bears, mountain lions, wolves, deer, eagles, owls and many others.

14. Devils Tower (WY)

Devils Tower is a unique and easily recognizable rock formation located in the northeastern part of Wyoming.

Even if being approximately 50 million years old, the rock emerged above the Earth’s surface only 10 million years ago as a result of erosion.

It rises approximately 1,267 feet (386 meters) above the surrounding landscape.

President Theodore Roosevelt proclaimed Devils Tower the first national monument in the United States on September 24, 1906.

13. 360 Chicago Observation Deck (IL)

360 Chicago Observation Deck is located in John Hancock Center, on 875 North Michigan Avenue.

Constructed between 1965 and 1969, the skyscraper is known for one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the United States.

The observatory is situated at a height of 1,030 feet (310 meters) above ground level, while the tip of the building rises 1,500 feet (457 m).

The best time to visit the tower is shortly after sunset on a clear day (no matter the season), because even a light fog could ruin your experience.

12. Badlands National Park (SD)

You will find one of the most extraordinary places in the United States in the southwestern parts of South Dakota.

Established on January 29, 1939, as a National Monument and later, on November 10, 1978, as a National Park, the Badlands is known for its multiple-colored bizarre-looking eroded rocks.

Surprisingly, the labyrinth of rocks is “only” 500,000 years old.

Scientists believe that the rocks continue to change very fast even today, growing with about 2 to 3 centimeters per year.

The best time of the year to visit the Badlands is early autumn, more precisely September and October.

11. One World Trade Center (NY)

America is the birthplace of the skyscraper so it is not surprising that you can find some of the tallest buildings in the world here.

One World Trade Center is the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere, and today it dominates the skyline of New York.

Located in Lower Manhattan, it rises 1,792 feet (546.2 meters) above the street canyon of the city.

The construction started on April 27, 2006, and completed on May 10, 2013.

10. The Wave (AZ)

Located in Coconino County in Northern Arizona, the Wave falls within the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.

It is considered one of the most difficult to visit places in the United States as you need a special permission to go there.

The eroded Jurassic rocks are very fragile, and at the same time, the number of people who want to visit this canyon is really enormous.

That’s why the Bureau of Land Management issues only 20 permits per day for people who want to visit the place.

The lucky ones are being chosen on the base of a lottery system.

The best time of the year to visit the Wave is in spring and autumn.

9. Valley of Fire State Park (NV)

Valley of Fire State Park was established in 1935 and covers a territory of approximately 45,937.88 acres (185.9040 km²) in Southern Nevada.

Because of its closeness to Las Vegas (only 50 miles / 80 kilometers), the park welcomes quite a large number of visitors.

It is known for its red-colored desert, and the main tourist attraction is the Elephant Rock.

Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, the park is also known for its numerous petroglyphs, which can be seen in different parts of the protected territory.

The best time to visit Valley of Fire State Park is spring and autumn, which bring the most pleasant weather conditions.

8. Beacon Hill, Boston (MA)

Established in 1795, Beacon Hill is one of the most beautiful historical neighbourhoods not only in Boston but in the United States.

Its old red-brick buildings from the 18th century and narrow cobbled streets make you feel like you are in Europe.

On October 15, 1966, Beacon Hill was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

This is a wonderful place to walk around, especially if you love history.

7. Kauai (HI)

Kauai is considered the oldest of the six major Hawaiian Islands.

It is located in the northwestern part of the archipelago and is known for some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.

The scenery is a mixture of dense tropical rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, shady canyons, fertile valleys and out of this world golden beaches.

If you love Jurassic Park, you should know that many scenes from the movie were filmed here, including the helicopter scene with the waterfall when Dr. Alan Grant and Dr. Ellie Sattler arrive on the island of Jurassic Park for the first time.

6. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (MI)

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore covers an area of approximately 73,236 acres (296 km²) in Northern Michigan and stretches for more than 40 miles along the coast of Lake Superior.

The protected area was established on October 15, 1966, and is an especially attractive destination during the summer season.

The place is known for its crystal clear emerald waters.

Here you will find a number of fantastic little coves and beaches.

It is an attractive place for swimming, scuba diving, kayaking and boating.

Despite being quite cold for most of the year, the weather in summer is usually wonderful.

June, July and August bring a number of hot and sunny days, mirrored waters and clear skies.

5. Times Square (NY)

Being equally bright, busy and lively 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, Times Square is the most iconic spot in New York City.

Limited between Broadway, 7th Avenue, 42nd and 47th Streets in Manhattan, its history started on April 8, 1904, when Longacre Square was renamed to Times Square soon after the influential newspaper New York Times moved into one of the buildings there.

Today the square is associated with its numerous bright LED billboards, signs and displays, and is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists.

4. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (TX)

San Antonio Mission National Historic Park covers a territory of 948 acres (384 ha) along the shores of San Antonio River.

Because of its historical importance, the site in the southern part of San Antonio, Texas, attracts visitors from all over the world.

It is known for its old missions from the 18th and 19th century.

One of the most recognizable and well preserved is Misión Concepción, which was completed in 1731.

Other well-preserved buildings within the park include Mission San Juan Capistrano, Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo and Mission Espada.

In 2015, the historical park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Yellowstone National Park (WY)

Established on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States.

Located in the Rocky Mountains of Northwestern Wyoming, the protected area is not just one of the symbols of the United States but it is also the best place to spot wild animals in America.

On the territory of 2,219,791 acres (8,983.18 km²), you can see a wide variety of species of animals, including American bison, wolf, mountain lion, grizzly bear, coyote, moose, deer, bald eagle etc.

One of the most exciting tourist attractions is the Old Faithful, which is the most famous cone geyser in the world, erupting once every 90 minutes.

The national park was added to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1978.

The best time to visit the park is between early April and late October.

July and August are too crowded but they offer very pleasant temperatures of up to 80 °F (27 °C).

2. Everglades National Park (FL)

Established in 1934, Everglades National Park occupies approximately 1,508,976 acres (6,106.61 km²) in the southernmost part of Florida.

It is covered mostly by extensive marshlands, swamps and mangrove forests.

Because of its warm and humid tropical climate, the area is known for its impressive biodiversity.

The climate is also the main reason why most people prefer to visit the park in winter.

Here you can see a number of rare species of animals, including bald eagles, herons, mountain lions, alligators and sea cows (manatees).

In 1979, Everglades National Park was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

1. Yosemite National Park (CA)

Established in 1890, Yosemite National Park covers approximately 748,436 acres (3,028.81 km²) in the interior of Central California.

It is well-known for its diverse landscape and attracts more than 4 million visitors per year with its wonderful waterfalls, U-shaped glacial valleys, dense pine forests and crystal clear mountain lakes.

Most of the park lies at an altitude of more than 3900 feet (1188.72 meters) above sea level.

In 1984 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here you can see a wide variety of species of animals, including black bears, deer, squirrels, mountain lions, grey wolves, eagles and many others.

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Planning to visit New Zealand? Read our guide that covers all the practical travel advice you need to know ahead of your trip.

Travelling to New Zealand

Learn about the COVID-19 requirements for travelling to New Zealand, visa and entry requirements and what sort of travel visa you might need. Find out how to get to New Zealand and how to book your trip.

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The Best Travel Guides (Online and Books)

Even in the digital age, travel guide books are an important part of my travel planning journey. I have read and tried many different travel books and online travel guides. And I pulled together a list of what I think are the best travel guides (books and online resources). 

I return to my favorite travel guides again and again with each trip that we plan. Once you find a travel guide series that you know and trust, it can really speed up the travel planning process.  

But which travel guides are the best? Keep reading for the full list!  

Need help with planning your trip? Check out our guide to the best travel planning resources .  

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Are travel guidebooks still used now? 

Absolutely! Although you can find a wealth of travel planning help online, the good old-fashioned travel guidebooks are still very much available and in use. 

Some people prefer to use paper travel guidebooks. You can flag important sections and highlight things you want to remember. We’ve even ripped our books up (they’re meant to be used!) and traveled only with the sections covering the cities and sites we visited. 

E-books are also a great option for travel guides. If you use e-books, you can easily travel with several guides without adding a single ounce to your luggage. It’s a perfect option for those who travel carry-on only .

Rick Steves: best travel guides for Europe 

Rick steves guidebooks .

Some seasoned travelers look down their noses a bit at Rick Steves guide books . There’s no reason for that. Rick Steves knows Europe inside and out from decades of traveling, leading tours, writing books, and producing episodes of his wonderful series  Rick Steves’ Europe.  

Rick Steves books are excellent guides and well worth the money. I highly recommend them, especially for travel planning beginners or for anxious travelers who are looking for an expert to tell them where to visit and how. 

His books are kept up to date and quite detailed, even to the point of including full guided walking tours (often several) and detailed guided tours through major sites. 

• Steves, Rick (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 604 Pages – 09/06/2022 (Publication Date) – Rick Steves (Publisher)

Rick Steves online 

You can also get a lot of good free travel tips and help on the Rick Steves website, including the forums . There are forums specifically for countries, reviews, and several forums about general travel tips topics. 

They’re a great way to get insight and tips from other experienced travelers…even those who disagree with Rick Steves itinerary suggestions. (Shocked face.)

Rick Steves Audio Europe Travel App 

I also highly recommend the Rick Steves Audio Europe Travel App . It’s loaded with audio guides for walking tours and top travel destination sites like the Colosseum in Rome and The Louvre Museum in Paris.  

Download the audio tours for your destination so you can listen to them on your mobile device as you explore your destination. 

Rough Guides: my favorite travel guidebooks overall 

Super practical and easy to read, Rough Guides are my top choice for any destination that isn’t in Europe (for which I prefer Rick Steves guide books ). 

The UK-based company was founded in 1982 with the  Rough Guide to Greece . Since then, they have published travel guidebooks for well over 100 destinations all over the world. 

In addition to their main guidebook series, they also offer Pocket Rough Guides, On a Budget, Snapshots, phrasebooks, and inspirational guides like “Make the Most of Your Time on Earth.” 

• Guides, Rough (Author)
• 840 Pages – 10/18/2022 (Publication Date) – Rough Guides (Publisher)

Rough Guides website 

Rough Guides isn’t just a guidebook publisher though. Since 2017 they have offered tailor-made trips to over 70 destinations. created by local travel experts. 

Their website provides some basic itineraries, travel recommendations, and basic destination information for free that can help get you started on planning your travel itinerary . 

Fodor’s 

The great travel writer Eugene Fodor once said “You don’t need to be rich to travel well.” And that’s been kind of my mantra for the last several years. 

In 1936 Fodor wrote the first modern travel guide book . It was for British audiences and he wrote all 1200 pages himself. The book was O n the Continent: An Entertaining Travel Annual .

According to Fodors.com , “The guide went beyond reporting on the sights and for the first time included information about Europe’s culture and people, practical information like how to tip, and was the first to be annually updated.” 

Since  On the Continent  was first published, Fodor’s has been a trusted name in travel guides. They now claim that their travel writers have covered more than 8,000 destinations around the world . 

In addition to the Signature Guides, their other series include Fodor’s Inside, In Focus, and 25 Best. Fodor’s says that  Fodor’s   Italy  is the company’s top-selling guide book. 

• Fodor’s Travel Guides (Author)
• 896 Pages – 12/20/2022 (Publication Date) – Fodor’s Travel (Publisher)

Fodor’s website 

Fodors.com was one of the first travel websites when it launched in 1996 . Today the site offers destination guides, general travel content, and forums about specific destinations or general travel topics such as air travel. 

Frommer’s 

The venerated Frommer’s travel guides were launched by Arthur Frommer in 1957 with a guide to visiting Europe on $5 a day (yup. $5.). That guide followed his book about how to travel Europe as a GI (Frommer was in the Army at the time). 

Frommer’s quickly grew to become one of the most trusted names in travel guidebooks. 

Several years ago, Frommer’s was acquired by Google, which pulled the plug on their print books in the spring of 2013.

Arthur Frommer reacquired the company shortly thereafter and then quickly made a deal to get the books back in distribution. Frommer’s then started emphasizing their Easy Guides and Day by Day series, which were smaller and easier to read and carry than the typical large guidebooks they saw on the market. 

• Gordon, Yvonne (Author)
• 602 Pages – 08/23/2022 (Publication Date) – FrommerMedia (Publisher)

Frommer’s website 

Frommers.com is a fine place to start planning for a trip for free. Destination information includes city layouts, how to get around, and their top picks for hotels and dining. 

They also provide other general travel content and feature articles plus trip ideas for honeymoons, arts and cultural travel, national parks, family travel, road trips, and more. 

The Frommer’s Travel Show (podcast) 

Pauline Frommer, daughter of Frommer’s founder Arthur Frommer, hosts The Frommer’s Travel Show podcast . New episodes come out approximately once per week or several times a month. 

Bradt Guides 

Known for publishing guides for lesser-traveled destinations (though certainly not less deserving), Bradt bills itself as “the world’s leading independent travel publisher.”  

Bradt guides are the go-to for destinations not covered by other publishers. They say that “over two-thirds of Bradt guides still have no direct competition from other publishers.” 

The Bradts’ first book,  Backpacking Along Ancient Ways Peru & Bolivia , was the first to detail the Inca Trail.

Later they became known for writing guides to destinations “post-conflict.” These included Rwanda, Kosovo, and the Baltic States after the fall of the Iron Curtain. 

In addition to their destination guidebooks, Bradt also publishes a Slow Travel series of UK destinations, a Wildlife series, and general travel literature. 

• McIntyre, Chris (Author)
• 456 Pages – 06/01/2022 (Publication Date) – Bradt Travel Guides (Publisher)

Bradt Guides Travel Club 

Avid travelers can support Bradt by joining their Travel Club through Patreon. There are three tiers: Bradtpacker, Globetrotter, and First-Class Traveller. Each tier offers differing levels of subscriber benefits including things like e-books and access to their bespoke travel planning service. 

Lonely Planet  

Lonely Planet books for a long time were quite popular especially with younger backpackers looking to travel on a budget. The books can be light on the details that certain travelers (beginners, anxious travelers) might wish for when making good decisions about where to spend their travel dollars. 

Lonely Planet books are good for independent and adventurous travelers . Or for those who just want some recommendations but not a prescribed itinerary with a ton of detail.  

In addition to their popular guidebooks, Lonely Planet also publishes phrasebooks, general travel books, food books, and children’s books. 

• Mayhew, Bradley (Author)
• 288 Pages – 03/16/2021 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

Lonely Planet website  

You can get some basic, inspirational travel information to start your travel planning from the Lonely Planet website . Sadly, they set their forums to “read-only” some time ago. In my opinion, the forums were the best (and most valuable) part of the website. 

Marco Polo 

Marco Polo is best known for its compact and colorful pocket travel guides. They also offer spiral-bound itinerary-based guides, phrasebooks, folding maps, travel handbooks, travel journals, city maps, and road atlases. 

• Marco Polo Travel Publishing Marco Polo Travel Publishing (Author)
• 136 Pages – 10/15/2022 (Publication Date) – Marco Polo Travel Publishing, Ltd. (Publisher)

Marco Polo Discovery Tours App 

The free Marco Polo Discovery Tours app offers travelers a variety of guided itineraries through many destinations. For example, you can download a 23-day driving tour of New Zealand with a step-by-step driving tour over both islands. 

DK Eyewitness: among best travel books for visuals 

I enjoy reading DK Eyewitness guides, especially when I’m looking for information about the history and culture of my destination.  The glossy full-color books feature beautiful photographs and illustrations perfect for inspiring your travel itinerary. They cover more than 100 destinations. 

DK was founded in 1974 by Christopher Dorling and Peter Kindersley. They published their first travel book in the early 1990’s promising to show you “what others only tell you.”

They also cover all the usual grounds for travel guidebooks: itineraries, maps, dining and accommodations recommendations, top sites, etc. 

• DK Eyewitness (Author)
• 592 Pages – 04/26/2022 (Publication Date) – DK Eyewitness Travel (Publisher)

Where to Go podcast 

Produced by the team behind the DK Eyewitness books, each episode of the Where to Go podcast dives deep into a particular destination. New episodes come out every two weeks or so. 

Insight Guides 

For more than 40 years, Insight Guides have published guidebooks covering more than 200 destinations. 

In my experience, they’re quite a bit heavier on destination history and culture than any other travel guide I’ve encountered. So, if that’s not something you enjoy, then these guidebooks might not be your top choice. 

Insight Guides series include: Explore Guides, City Breaks, Pocket Guides, City Guides, and Experience Guides. 

• Guides, Insight (Author)
• 144 Pages – 04/01/2018 (Publication Date) – Insight Guides (Publisher)

Insight Guides website

You will find some travel information on the Insight Guides website , making it a decent place to start if you’re unsure of your destination.

The emphasis of their website seems to be on advertising their Insight Guides trip offerings…not that there’s anything wrong with that. 

Atlas Obscura 

Atlas obscura book .

Unlike all of the other travel guidebooks listed above, Atlas Obscura: An Explorer’s Guide to the World’s Hidden Wonders is not a series of guidebooks but rather one book that details an incredible array of oddities and wonders around the world. 

Here’s how the authors describe their book and website (more on that below): 

“The site, and this book, are a kind of wunderkammer of places, a cabinet of curiosities that is meant to inspire wonderlust as much as wanderlust. In fact, many of the places in this book are in no way ‘tourist sites’ and should not be treated as such. Others are so out of the way, so treacherously situated, or (in at least one case) so deep beneath the surface, that few readers will ever be able to visit them. But here they are, sharing this marvelously strange planet with us.  Joshua Foer, Dylan Thuras & Ella Morton,  Atlas Obscura , revised second edition, (New York: Workman Publishing, 2019) vii

The revised second edition (published in 2019) added more than 100 new sites to the 2016 first edition. The book is delightful reading if you’re into oddities around the world. I definitely recommend picking up a copy. 

• Hardcover Book
• Foer, Joshua (Author)

Atlas Obscura website 

Make sure you stop by the Atlas Obscura website  during your travel planning if you like finding out-of-the-way sites, or unusual places to visit, or want to make it a priority to get off the beaten path. 

You can even take Atlas Obscura trips to some pretty unusual places and even with some unusual activities…such as assisting biologists with bee research at Redwood National Park. 

Atlas Obscura podcast 

Atlas Obscura launched a podcast in March 2021, which I’ve really enjoyed listening to. Early episodes covered sites such as the Gates of Hell in Turkmenistan, the Museum of Bad Art in Massachusetts, and the old Widow Jane cement mine in Rosendale, New York. 

Final thoughts on the best travel guidebooks 

The best travel guides will be the ones that you use and that help you plan a trip that you truly love. I personally like to use a combination of travel guidebooks and online travel planning resources. 

But don’t just follow my advice. Try these guidebook series and online travel guides for yourself and find the ones that you will like and use for your trip planning. 

What are your favorite travel guidebooks?

More articles related to travel guides 

• Travel planning resources  
• The top books about travel and self-discovery 
• Best books to read before you travel to Paris  
• The best books about the South 

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Michelin guides (the green books) are great!

I used to use the “Let’s Go: Europe” guides, which were great. They were targeting college age students mostly, but they had lots of good information re: trip planning for everyone.

Which guidebooks (and/or websites) are best for planning train/plane travel while in Europe? Any standouts?

Thanks for your very helpful information!

You’re welcome, Wayne. The Man in Seat 61 is THE expert in European train travel. His website is: https://www.seat61.com/ . He’s also pretty active on Twitter. I’d also recommend checking out https://www.rome2rio.com/ for helping with planning transportation for any trip. Thanks for reading!

My family had a great time in Paris. We had a wonderful time there and enjoyed the culture of the region. The nightlife was fantastic, and the city’s elegance is indescribable. We are in love with the place and explore so many places like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Cruise on the Seine, etc. After reading your blog I would like to revisit there.

Oh, I’m so glad you enjoyed your trip. Thanks for reading!

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

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Google Revealed the Most-searched-for Travel Gifts of 2023 — and These Are 14 That I'm Already Shopping

Prices start at $12 for travel accessories and gear from Veken, Lululemon, Yeti, and more.

Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

Each year, millions of shoppers use Google to find the best items out there, whether they’re preparing for a trip , gearing up for the holidays , and really everything in between. Taking all of those searches in tow, the search engine powerhouse has released its annual Google Holiday 100 List , a massive gift guide based on the year's trendiest and most-searched items. 

This list includes everything from the best items in apparel to the hottest gadgets on the market , but what I’m particularly eyeing is the travel section , which has the year's top trending accessories, gear, and other jet-setting must-haves that will make the perfect presents. So, as your resident shopping expert, I’ve taken the time to curate all of the best gifts for travelers from the Google Holiday 100 List, ranging from sleek Away luggage to seasonal favorites like the Ugg Tasman Slippers to make shopping this holiday season a bit easier. You’ll have to act fast, though, because if we've learned anything from last year, it's that these are always the first to sell out. 

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

Between Travel + Leisure e ditors calling this bag “everything you could possibly need in a functional travel pack” and shoppers referring to it as the “perfect belt bag,” the $38 Lululemon Belt Bag may be the best gift that you could possibly give (or receive). It’s equipped with water-resistant fabric that makes it great for all sorts of travel and boasts a surprisingly spacious-yet-compact size to fit all of your belongings without being too bulky. 

Away The Carry-On Suitcase

T+L editors are longtime fans of Away , and the brand continues to be a favorite among shoppers for its reliable, functional, and stylish designs. So, it was really no surprise to see its award-winning carry-on at the top of Google’s trending gifts list. In fact, I’m even eyeing one to gift for myself or my sister this season because this suitcase is that much of a game-changer. If you have a frequent jet-setter in your life that you really want to impress, there’s really no better gift out there than this great carry-on (that is, unless they already have one). 

Dagne Dover Small Neoprene Backpack

This has truly been the year of traveling with carry-ons and backpacks to avoid checking your bag whenever possible. Travelers know how important a reliable travel backpack is, whether it's used as a personal item, on a camping trip, or your commute to work. And, it doesn't get any more versatile than the Dagne Dover Neoprene Backpack. It features padded shoulder straps, smart organizational compartments, and a durable build that’s ready for any and every adventure. 

Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Time Off Sneakers

As a lover and frequent wearer of these Dr. Scholl's shoes, when I saw this pair on the list, I felt both a sense of pride in my own personal taste and fear that they’re going to be impossible to keep in stock this season. I swiftly added a backup pair to my cart, and am considering adding a few more as  gifts to friends and family because, let's be real, what present is better than a comfortable essential that’ll get tons of use? The Time Off Sneakers are great for travel, look fabulous on, go with nearly every outfit, and right now you can get them on sale for just $70 ahead of the holiday bustle.

Apple Watch Series 8 

Apple Watches have been a top gifting item for the past few years, and with how great they are for everyday use — and especially travel as it can display boarding passes, act as a hands-free credit card, direct with Google maps, and more — if you’re looking for a great last-minute  gift, you can't go wrong with them. It's always a fabulous, functional gift that shows you care. And right now, you can score this trendy gift on sale for $100 right now. 

Yeti Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler

This spacious wheeled cooler was rated the best overall by T+L 's testing editors , who noted: “Not only do the brand’s reputable toughness and durability hold up against the competition, the cooler boasts superior insulation and a comfortable towing design.” Its functional and impressive cooling capabilities make it a great gift for that person in your life who’s always camping, tailgating, or loves to grill, especially thanks to its all-weather, puncture-resistant design. 

Sorel Women’s Kinetic Impact Conquest Sneaker Boots

For the outdoor enthusiasts on your list, you can’t go wrong with these versatile sneaker boots that are built for tough terrain. They've earned stamps of approval from T+L editors and Oprah Winfrey in the past for their waterproof construction and breathable insulation, which keeps your feet both warm and dry, no matter the weather. 

Ugg Women’s Tasman Slippers

Last year, it was impossible to find a pair of these Tasman Slippers from Ugg in stock. Their cuteness and unmatched comfort made them high on nearly everyone’s list, and as a result, they sold out almost immediately. In fact, sizes and colors are already starting to sell out again, so if I were you, I’d grab a pair while they’re still in stock. Take this opportunity to treat yourself to a pair, that special someone with an affinity for all things cozy. 

Champion Men’s Anorak Jacket

With the unpredictability of the weather this time of year, it’s always a good idea to gift those in your life items that are both practical and trendy. This anorak jacket checks off both boxes, and is such a great item to have in your travel wardrobe because it’s water- and wind-resistant. Not to mention that it also folds down to an easy transportable size. And, it happens to be on sale for just $33 right now. 

Roverlund Airline Approved Pet Carrier

As a frequent traveler who is often accompanied by her two equally travel-loving cats, there are few items as important to a pet owner than an airline-approved pet carrier. If you already need one for the vet or emergencies, you might as well make sure it’s also airline-approved or else you’ll welcome a whole host of other issues. And, while you’re at it, you also might as well make sure that it looks cute, because pets deserve trendy gear, too. I’m particularly interested in this highly-searched one from Roverlund because of its eye-catching design that gives me extra peace of mind that I'll always know which carrier is mine. It also boasts a durable build and collapsible design for easy storing.

Veken Packing Cube Set

Millions of Americans are going to be traveling across the country for the holidays in a few short weeks, and if you want to be prepared (or give the gift of preparedness), consider a set of packing cubes. Between their space-saving and organizational potential, packing cubes have absolutely changed the way that I travel. I’m able to pack more with less space, and even confidently shop during trips knowing that I have more than enough room in my bag. I recommend grabbing this top-rated pack from Amazon, especially while it’s double discounted and on sale for $12 thanks to an on-site coupon. 

Xgimi Mogo Portable Projector

With the potential to transform any living room into a movie theater of your own, mini projectors are an unsurprisingly hot gift this year. Pack one with you for an unforgettable cabin trip, or keep one ready to turn your backyard into an entertaining oasis. As a movie lover, I’m all in for this portable projector. Clip the on-site coupon so you can get it for $100 off ahead of Black Friday.

Trtl Travel Pillow 

Being a comfort queen means that no matter where I am — a stuffy plane, crammed train, stuffed car — I prioritize getting meaningful and intentional rest. Of course, there are other travelers who are looking to do the same, and this particular travel pillow is built specifically for that. With a unique design for optimal neck, head, and shoulder support, this pillow has been dubbed the “best for long flights” by Amazon shoppers. 

Plufl Human Dog Bed

According to Google, searches for ‘human dog bed’ were up 1,250 percent this year. And while you might be stuck thinking,  why is that so ? I’ve moved past that and am now thinking about all of the ways that I can hop on this trend — even considering throwing out my inflatable mattress for guests and replacing it with this cozy alternative. I also imagine it has the potential to turn my living room into the ultimate relaxation getaway, and think that everyone on your list may (or may not) feel the same. And, if you're interested in traveling with your cozy bed, it also conveniently folds in half and has handles for easy transporting.

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A Complete Guide to Vermont's Route 100 Scenic Drive

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

There are 10 designated Vermont byways , all worthy routes for drivers who want to explore the Green Mountain State's history, artistry, culinary delights, and natural wonders. Of them, the Vermont Scenic Route 100 Byway is a popular standout. Begin your journey from Route 100's southern end in Stamford, Vermont, just across the Massachusetts border, and you'll instantly discover that Vermont's longest single highway isn't highway-like at all. As Route 100 meanders north for just over 216 miles—practically the entire length of the state—it slices a corridor through the very center of the state, tracing the edge of the Green Mountain National Forest and visiting 33 storybook Vermont small towns.

How long does it take to drive the entire length of VT-100, all the way to Newport, Vermont, just shy of the Canadian border? You could make the trip in about five hours without stops, and it would be a splendidly scenic ride. But you could just as easily spend five days poking around along this mountain road, stopping to shop, dine, hike, sightsee, and, of course, snap selfies. Many travelers choose just a segment of Route 100 for a day's outing, particularly in the fall when traffic clogs this major artery. This guide will help you find Route 100's highlights, but the best part of hitting this classic road, whether in a car or on a motorcycle, is pulling over or detouring whenever something catches your eye and making the trip your own.

The Best Time to Drive Vermont's Route 100

Route 100 would not be a fun drive in a massive downpour or blinding blizzard, but otherwise, there is no wrong time of year for an adventure along this well-maintained road. Driving and stopping along Vermont Route 100 in the fall is a leaf peeper's dream. The annual color change begins in late September in the state's northern regions and higher elevations and works its way south through the first three weeks of October, so conditions are likely to be optimal somewhere along VT-100 for the better part of a month. Summertime is equally gorgeous, though, when the Green Mountains are their characteristic lush green and outdoor recreational opportunities abound. In the winter, this corridor is known as the Skier's Highway, as it is the escape route for snow lovers bound for Vermont's most popular ski areas: Mount Snow , Stratton , Okemo , Killington , Sugarbush , and Stowe .

Highlights Along the Vermont Scenic Route 100 Byway

Route 100's allure is its multitude of "only in Vermont" stops. Here are 10 (from south to north) that are musts:

• Grandma Miller's (Londonderry): Head to Grandma Miller's red barn bakery for beloved Vermont-baked goods including fruit, nut, and meat pies; fresh-baked pastries, cakes, and quick breads; granola; doughnuts; and frozen tubs of cookie dough.
• Vermont Country Store (Weston): This dog-friendly shopping destination is legendary for its eclectic wares, from Vermont-made gifts and gourmet foods to flannel apparel and hard-to-find items you were sure no longer existed. The original Vermont Country Store was founded in 1946, and travelers on Route 100 find it nearly impossible to just drive by.
• Green Mountain Sugar House (Ludlow): Everything maple-y awaits at this waterside, red-roofed sugarhouse where the photo ops are as sweet as the syrups, candies, and soft-serve maple creemees. Spring is sugaring season, but you'll love shopping here year-round for a full slate of Vermont food products including smoked meats, cheeses, honey, and coffee.
• President Calvin Coolidge Historic Site (Plymouth): It isn't just the birthplace of America's 30th president that is preserved for visitors to experience. Explore the entire village of Plymouth Notch, including the still-operating cheese factory , and learn how Calvin Coolidge took the oath of office and operated his summer White House right here in the place where he was born and raised.
• Moss Glen Falls (Granville): Between Rochester and Warren, keep an eye out for this 35-foot waterfall on the western side of Route 100. It's most impressive in the spring, as snowmelt adds to the volume of water tumbling in a horsetail over dark rocks. From the parking lot, a small bridge leads to a viewing deck, which makes this lovely cascade easy to photograph.
• Mad River Glass Gallery (Waitsfield): Observe as glassblowers Melanie and David Leppla—whose work is in private and museum collections—practice their ancient craft with a modern, Vermont twist. Their gallery is a gorgeous place to appreciate the wonders of glass.
• Ben & Jerry's Factory (Waterbury): Childhood friends Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield turned a $5 ice-cream-making correspondence course into one of Vermont's most successful and socially responsible businesses and one of the top ice cream brands out there. In addition to touring the factory where these pleasing pints originate, you can visit the Flavor Graveyard and Scoop Shop.
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill (Waterbury Center): Fall is the busiest time of year at Vermont's best cider mill, where you can watch as apples are pressed into sweet cider. You'll be even more mesmerized by the donut robots, which turn out the hot cider donuts that are in demand year-round. Plan to stick around for a while to shop for gifts and gourmet products, taste hard ciders, and take advantage of photo ops.
• Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum (Stowe): It doesn't have to be a bluebird day for you to immerse yourself in Vermont's ski scene. Learn about the history of skiing and riding in the state at this artifact-filled museum in an 1818 meeting house.
• The Alchemist (Stowe): It may be a short jog off of Route 100, but if you're a beer lover and you're this close, you'll want to visit one of Vermont's best breweries , where Heady Topper, the double IPA that really put Vermont on the world beer map, is crafted.

Where to Stay on and Near VT-100

Year-round, you'll find Airbnbs and ski-area condos, like those at Sugarbush Village , convenient for multi-day stays in Vermont's Route 100 region. Consider these other lodging options (from south to north) if you're planning to spend several days driving Vermont's Route 100, and make reservations well in advance for holiday, fall foliage, and ski season weekends:

• Deerhill Inn : Views of the Green Mountains, fine dining on-site, and a notable wine cellar make this West Dover inn a perfect home base, especially during fall foliage season.
• The Lodge at Bromley : For simple, clean, family-friendly accommodations and an unbeatable mountain view, detour 7 miles off Route 100 to this lodging property on Route 11 in Peru.
• The Trailside Inn : Near Killington, this updated ski lodge oozes Vermont charm and offers an affordable and comfortable place to rest your head. Don't ski? Borrow sleds or rent snowshoes and set out for winter fun right on inn grounds, knowing a roaring fire awaits in the Great Room on cold, dark nights.
• Lareau Farm Inn : Choose from a dozen bright and cheery B&B rooms at this historic farmhouse turned inn in Waitsfield.
• The Pitcher Inn : With rustic-themed yet incredibly posh rooms, upscale dining, and glorious fireplaces to warm you, this inn just off Route 100 in Warren is worth the splurge if you're looking for romance.
• Field Guide Lodge : Just off Route 100 in Stowe, this Lark Hotels property has nostalgic yet youthful energy and style, plus perks like complimentary breakfast and an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fire pit.

Where to Eat Along Vermont Route 100

These Route 100 restaurants (from south to north) are ideal places to sample the flavors of Vermont:

• Garden Cafe and Gallery : Multitask at this Londonderry, Vermont, destination where you can pick up picnic foods to go, shop for local gourmet and gift products, admire art by Vermonters, and enjoy dinner beside a wood fire.
• The Downtown Grocery : One of Vermont's top chefs, Rogan Lechthaler, helms the kitchen at this cozy bistro near Okemo Mountain in Ludlow. Save room for desserts made with Vermont ingredients like apples and maple syrup.
• The Wild Fern : This enchanting, vegan-friendly cafe right on Route 100 in Stockbridge, Vermont, is known as much for live music as it is for its fresh-baked breads and bagels and hearty soups, pizzas, and burgers.
• Sandy's Books and Bakery : In tiny Rochester, Vermont, you can browse rooms of books while your bagel's toasting and your soup is being ladled at this cute stop for homebaked treats and coffee drinks. 
• American Flatbread : Vermont's own take on pizza was originated at the historic, 25-acre Lareau Farm in Waitsfield, where you can still savor wood-fired, bubbly-crusted flatbreads topped with fresh, sustainable ingredients.
• Michael's on the Hill : You'll find one of Vermont's best farm-to-table restaurants situated on a hill in Waterbury Center overlooking Route 100 and scenic mountain peaks. Swiss chef Michael Kloeti is known for using local, organic Vermont ingredients in European-style comfort food dishes.
• Plate : In Stowe, this rustic restaurant is perfect for a romantic meal featuring beautifully plated fare made with Vermont-grown raw materials. Vegan options are available.

Tips for VT-100 Travelers

• Pay close attention to posted speed limits and don't let the scenery distract you from obeying them. Along open stretches, the speed limit is typically 50 mph, but as you motor through small towns, it may drop to as low as 35 or even 25 mph. Be especially cautious in the 35 mph zone in Plymouth: a spot that is notorious for the number of speeding tickets issued each year.
• Use an app like Yelp to find restaurants that are just off Route 100 and missed by many tourists.
• Share the road with fewer drivers by traveling Route 100 midweek, particularly during the height of the fall and ski seasons.

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Your Trip to Vermont: The Complete Guide

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Best Fall Foliage Drives in the New England States

10 Top Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont

12 Best Things to Do in New England in the Winter

The 9 Best Foods to Try in Vermont

The Top 10 East Coast Winter Destinations

Washington's Cascade Loop Scenic Driving Tour

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9 Places to Snowshoe and Cross-Country Ski in Vermont

Mount Hood Attractions and Activities

11 BEST Travel Guides for 2024 [Websites & Guidebooks]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL;DR: The two best travel guides are Rick Steves for first time travelers—especially anyone going to Europe—and Bradt Guides for off-the-beaten-path destinations and “Slow Travel.” Both are reliable, will give you ideas for what to do, and help you plan the best trip.

The way we travel has changed drastically in my lifetime. Information is more readily available in the digital age, a massive plus for traveling. 

Everyone, including myself, wants to make the most of every trip abroad. That’s why I love reading travel guide books or online guides. 

Some of these guide books help you get off the beaten path. Others give information on tours you can take on your own to learn the history of a certain destination you’re visiting. 

But which are the best?

After years of reading and doing research, I have found the best travel guides for you to use when planning your next trip abroad!

Note: this article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Here’s a quick look at our recommendations

• DK Eyewitness
• Bradt Guides
• Rick Steves
• Lonely Planet
• Blue Guides
• Footprint Guides
• Frommer Guides
• Tripadvisor
• Rough Guides
• Moon Travel Guides
• Insight Guides

Table of Contents

#1 DK Eyewitness

DK Eyewitness is one of the best travel guide books on the market today. But they offer more than just travel information. 

After publishing books for over 45 years, DK Eyewitness Books cover everything from travel, science, history, pop culture, and children’s topics.

Their travel guides give the information you desperately need for travel– such as maps, itineraries, accommodations, where to eat, and more! 

I also love how easy their visuals are to look at. I sometimes get lost in their maps and start imagining myself there (I’m a big daydreamer if you can’t tell!).

DK Eyewitness Travel guide books might not be the most in-depth on a particular location, but they help with travel inspiration. 

If you want more information, DK Eyewitness has a podcast called ‘Where to Go,’ which is another excellent way to get your travel information on the go!

• 100+ destinations
• Heavy on history
• It has both outdoor and city guides
• Amazing visuals
• Not as in-depth as other guides

#2 Bradt Guides

A Bradt travel guide is perfect if you’re interested in visiting countries that are less traveled to— written by experienced travelers with fantastic insider tips. 

Bradt travel guide books has a reputation as the “World’s leading independent travel publisher.” They are also the best India travel guide company.

Some unique destinations include Iraq, Sri Lanka, Galapagos Islands, and Grenada. But don’t worry. Bradt Guides also has a British series for those interested! 

Lately, I’ve been striving to travel like a local. Bradt has a ‘Slow Travel’ guidebook series, which I love using these days because it helps me travel like a local. 

The trip ideas are great in detail but might not be for your preferred country to visit. 

Bradt Guides prides itself on being the most comprehensive on the market. Their authors give cultural insights and expressions of interest and knowledge.

You can support Bradt’s Guides even further by subscribing to their Patreon! Here you can pay monthly for a specific tier and earn different things like one free e-book a month.

• More off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Slow travel series
• Has a Patreon page
• Unique style of travel not for everyone

#3 Rick Steves

Rick Steves books are the guide books your mom hands you when traveling to your dream destination in Europe. And that’s a good thing! They’re trusted by many for a reason.

These travel guide books are always up-to-date, thanks to Rick Steves’ research partners. 

Rick’s books will have you feeling like you’re on guided tours! He ensures you’ll have some fantastic cultural experiences. 

I love Europe, but there are many other cultures throughout the world that I’m even more interested in. So, since Rick Steves’ guidebooks are primarily Europe-focused, I’m not as drawn to them.

Also, traveling in Europe long-term can get expensive. His books cater to a more wealthy crowd. 

Pick any European country, and you will have high-quality content on that destination. Rick has visited Europe countless times, and other travel websites can’t compete. 

Rick’s bestseller is his Italy guide, which isn’t surprising. In that guide, he goes over the best places to eat and sleep and how to beat the crowds. 

It’s a good idea to grab a Rick Steves’ book simply for the detailed maps.

• Best guides for Europe
• It gives in-depth information for solo tours
• Perfect for a beginner traveler.
• Catered to upper and middle-class travelers

#4 Lonely Planet

I’m sure you’ve heard of Lonely Planet , as they’ve been a dominant force in the travel scene for quite some time now. Their goal is to make travel planning easy, and they’ve succeeded!  

I loved using Lonely Planet books when I first started traveling. These books helped me up my game as a budget traveler. 

Lonely Planet dominates the internet with a wealth of online resources. While the information they offer online is easy to access, it can be vague. 

You can subscribe to Lonely Planet on their website for free. I’ve done this, but I’ve found that there tends to be some destinations/articles that are low in detail. 

Considering Lonely Planet’s sheer amount of content, it’s not too surprising that they sometimes gloss over details. 

Their claim to fame is their numerous experts located worldwide. These experts cover adventure travel, family holidays, food and drink, and much more. 

Plus, a Lonely Planet magazine is an amazing coffee table piece, am I right?

• Backpacker friendly
• An extensive collection of guides for the entire world
• Free information is available
• Some of their content is outdated or not detailed

#5 Blue Guides

If you love the art and history of Italy, then Blue Guides is for you! People often plagiarize Blue Guide books due to the amount of accurate information each book has. 

With over 14 books on Italy alone, you won’t find more detailed information on a particular destination than with Blue Guides– they deliver it all! 

Italy was the first country that I visited outside of the United States, and I’m so glad that I had a Blue Guide book with me. 

Their award-winning maps and exceptional attention to detail made it feel like I was on a private tour! 

Be aware: there aren’t a lot of online articles from Blue Guides or many countries to choose from, which could be an issue if you like to visit more unusual locations.

Blue Guides’ first publication date was in the early 1900s, so it’s undoubtedly a top guidebook for a travel junkie!

• Helps travelers understand art and history
• Multiple guides on Italy
• Extremely thorough in their research
• Not a lot of destinations

#6 Footprint Guides

Footprint Guides is the go-to source for Latin American travel tips for all budgets! My love for this region of the world has only grown since I started using their books.

Even if Latin America isn’t one of your top destinations, they do offer other print books. All Footprint Guides are written by experts who have lived in that destination. 

Unfortunately, for North American travelers looking to plan a dream road trip, you won’t find much helpful information here, as their focus is decidedly on the south. 

Alongside their practical information, Footprint adds a layer of imagination to their guidebooks, giving them an edge that makes them one of the best travel guide series available today!

• Wide range of budgets
• Specializes in Latin America
• Practical information
• Not much content on the United States

#7 Frommer Guides

Does traveling on $5 per day sound appealing to you? Arthur Frommer thought so when he set out to create his Frommer travel guides . 

Alongside some of the best guidebooks, Frommer also offers other forms of information, including podcasts, online articles, and hotel deals!

I love using Frommer guides on road trips because they help me in many different situations. 

I usually like to have a podcast for when I’m driving , a guidebook on specific destinations while I’m in a hotel room, and online sources when on the go. 

Having Frommer guides in all their varied forms is essential since each one typically doesn’t go into heavy detail. 

If purchasing travel guide books doesn’t interest you, then keeping up to date with Frommer’s online travel guides is the way to go.

• Many styles of information are available
• Updates information frequently
• Offer hotel deals
• It covers only the main details

#8 Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor is an online source that most travelers have heard about. It’s unique on this list of travel guides because you interact with other travelers!

If you’re looking for help with trip planning, look no further than the Tripadvisor forum . Here you can talk with fellow travelers about your upcoming trip! 

When I have a specific question that needs answering, I always check Tripadvisor first. They have information on most countries, but some info on the forums can be outdated. 

Tripadvisor is great because it’s free! But they’re more than just a review and forum-based platform; you can also book different travel deals and tours through their website.

Sometimes the sheer amount of information can be overwhelming to click through.  If that sounds relatable, you might want to purchase some guidebooks instead. 

Tripadvisor started the wave of online travel planning. They’re worth browsing, even if you just want to write down a few travel tips!

• Multiple reviews from other travelers
• Travel deals available
• Forum can be out of date
• The massive amount of information can be overwhelming

#9 Rough Guides

Rough Guides has grown into a leader in the travel industry with its amazing travel guidebooks and online travel guides. 

What I love about these books is their authenticity. Their recommendations from locals helped to grow them into who they are today.

It all started with their Greece travel guide, and it quickly blew up. Demand increased for more and more Rough Guide content; they released a guidebook series for people who were eager for more. In 2017, Rough Guides expanded even further.

Today Rough Guides are more than just a travel guide company that sells books. They offer tours, custom-made itineraries, and more! I love using their website when planning my next trip. 

These custom-made itineraries and tours are expensive but for a reason. Rough Guides’ experts are located worldwide to give you the best travel experience ever. 

Rough Guides best selling guides offer a ton of background information and local tips, making them worth the high price!

• Detailed itineraries
• Personal recommendations from locals
• An extensive list of countries
• High prices for tours and custom itineraries

#10 Moon Travel Guides

Moon Guides are my favorite guidebooks for traveling around the United States. Planning that perfect road trip is challenging but Moon Guides makes it easier.

Moon’s travel guidebooks are all about traveling sustainably. I’ve used them countless times in the Americas and have found them super helpful.

But Moon Guides don’t focus on the Americas only– they also offer some of the best travel guides for Japan in particular.

I’ve learned to use these books more for research instead of bringing them on my travels– they don’t always hold up with how rugged traveling can get for me.

Moon’s detailed maps are so good in their guidebooks that I fill my phone library with them. They are easy to read and use, which is what I think makes a good map. 

The best travel tips are from locals, and that’s what Moon’s travel guidebooks bring. They don’t have a fancy touring app or anything, but they don’t need it. 

If you want one of the best travel guides for families, then there’s no better choice than making Moon Guides your tour guide when traveling. 

Find your dream destination, get travel inspiration from their maps, and book that plane ticket.

• Emphasis on the Americas and the Pacific
• Easy-to-understand maps
• Many pages of information solely for hotels/accommodations
• Guidebooks aren’t durable

#11 Insight Guides

Insight is one of the best travel guidebooks on the market for a reason. The beautiful photographs in these travel guidebooks will have you daydreaming for days.

Insight guides are perfect for those history buffs out there like me. They combine great information with also some off-the-beaten-track activities. 

Insight has produced over 200 guidebooks and language books. Their books provide information on nearly any country you can think of (besides Mexico).

I love their books because they also have a mini-series.

During the Covid years, I was in the mood to read a lot. I picked a different destination each week and bought a new e-book. 

I could do this because they only cost five to ten dollars! Most of the best travel guidebooks are double this.   

Besides its guidebook series, Insight offers a handmade trip planned by experts to the destination of your choice. What more could you ask for?!

• Multiple countries in each continent
• Has language guides
• Sells hand-picked vacation packages put together by locals
• Offers mini versions of guides to sell for cheap
• No Mexico guide

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Guide

What to Look for in Travel Guides

Is the information up to date.

Picking the best travel guidebooks can be an overwhelming process. But the most important thing to watch out for is making sure the information is up-to-date.

Compared to online sources, guidebook information tends not to get updated as quickly for obvious reasons. 

You don’t want a travel guide taking you to a restaurant that doesn’t exist anymore, do you? No. You want to get off the beaten track but not THAT off that it gets you lost.

Pick Locally-Based Travel Guides

My ideal travel style is meeting locals, living, and eating like a local. I have the best travel experiences when I dive deep into the culture.

The best information about a destination comes from locals. When you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, wouldn’t you want to consult someone who has lived there for many years?

When you rely on locals’ recommendations, you’ll truly have an experience of a lifetime. 

Know What Type of Traveler You Are

This next tip can be difficult for some, and it can change from year to year. I have gone from being a true budget traveler to somewhere in the middle. 

I used to love history (I still do) and would base my travels around that. Now I seek adventure activities. 

Different types of guides will focus on different things, such as budget travel, adventure, expensive tours, food, or history. 

Finding the travel guide that fits your style will be more beneficial in the long run.

Know Which Destination You Want to Visit the Most

The best world travel guidebooks are often better for certain locations than others. For example, Rick Steves has a reputation for being the best travel guide for Europe and, specifically, the best travel guide for Italy. 

So, choose your travel guide based on which one specializes in the area you’re curious about.

Other Helpful Travel Guides

Travel is a huge industry which means there are more guides than you could ever possibly use. 

If you prefer your travel content in video form, one of the best travel guide Youtube channels is Ryan Shirley . 

His videos showcase the top places to visit in different countries with some of the best drone shots you’ll ever see. 

FAQs About Travel Guides

Should You Even Buy a Travel Guide?

A travel guide has its place. It may seem outdated to use one, but you can find some of the best information in them. 

Some guides take years to make and are very specific in the details they write for certain locations. The maps tend to be better and easier to read in these types of guides as well.  

Which is better: Lonely Planet or Rough Guide?

It depends on the style of travel you prefer. I prefer budget travel and tend to take fewer tours, so I like Lonely Planet. Rough Guide also has amazing tours if you’re interested in those.

What is the difference between Fodor’s and Frommer’s travel guides?

Frommer travel guides are excellent for those who want an easy read. Fodor is typically the better choice if you want more details about your activities. 

Fodor also has one of the best travel guides for Ireland, so check out Fodor if that’s your destination.

Is it better to travel with a tour guide or alone with a travel guide?

The answer differs from person to person! If you want your trip planned, then a tour guide is perfect. Going alone with a travel guide is nice because you can go at your own pace. 

Do people still buy travel guides?

Absolutely! There’s something different about having a travel guidebook to look at rather than scrolling through a website. 

Rick Steves and Bradt are my favorite travel guides.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Phillip Anderson

Phillip Anderson is a freelance travel writer, personal trainer, and adventure enthusiast. With years of travel experience under his belt, Phillip is an expert in finding the best deals through travel apps and websites. He knows how to find cheap domestic and international flights, like a flight to Peru for as low as $350.

When looking for cheap accommodations, Phillip combines his knowledge of websites like Airbnb, Booking.com & Hostelworld with more unique sites like TrustedHousesitters, for even more savings. Whether it’s flights, accommodations, or local experiences, he teaches travelers to make informed decisions, ensuring their adventures are both memorable and economical. For more from Phillip, check out his website, JaywalkTheWorld.com.

Planning your next big adventure? Check out these related articles below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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2023 HUNDRED ISLANDS: Travel Guide (ITINERARY + BUDGET) Blog

by thepinay solobackpacker | Sep 12, 2023 | Itinerary , Pangasinan , Travel Guide | 4 comments

Detailed Hundred Islands travel guide blog with sample Hundred Islands itinerary and trip budget. Also includes places to stay in Hundred Islands and things to do.  

Hundred Islands epitomizes the best of Pangasinan , riddled by 123 islets spearing out of the cerulean sea.  Home to a staggering variety of wildlife and fishes, these coral islands make up the Hundred Islands National Park.  Most of them are desolate, save for the 7 major islands that are usually included in the island hopping tour: Governors Island, Virgin Island, Quezon Island, Marcos Island, Scout Island, Children’s Island, and Pilgrimage Island/Ramos Island (island with large Jesus statue).  These islands have exploded in popularity and booming like nowhere else in Pangasinan. It’s an ideal weekend getaway for families and friends because the park is packed with water activities. Here’s a Hundred Islands travel guide with itinerary and budget  to help you plan your trip.

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

HUNDRED ISLANDS PRE-TRIP PLANNING

When is the best time to visit Hundred Islands : The dry season from November to May are the best months to visit. Always check the weather updates before proceeding.

Mobile signal: Mobile signal is available in this national park.

Wi-Fi: Not all hotels in Hundred Islands and Alaminos, Pangasinan have Wi-Fi, so, best to bring your own pocket Wi-Fi or internet data. You can connect securely online when you have your own Wi-Fi and you can stay online even outside the confines of your hotel.

POCKET Wi-Fi: RENT HERE

Power Socket: Electrical socket is Type A. 220 V, 60 HZ.

Mode of Payment: Everything is on cash basis. Stack up cash.

ATM in Hundred Islands:   ATM is available at Tourist Information Center in Lucap Wharf, but best to withdraw in Alaminos city proper.

Parking in Hundred Islands: You can park your car or private vehicle at Lucap Wharf.

Safety in Hundred Islands: As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, Hundred Islands is tourist-friendly. However, as in any place, watch over your important things. Wear life jacket when doing water activities.

2021 HUNDRED ISLANDS TRAVELS REQUIREMENTS

Hundred Islands is open to tourists from GCQ and MGCQ areas only.  Visitors from ECQ and MECQ areas aren’t allowed. Strict standard health protocols is currently implemented by Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos, Pangasinan for the safety of everyone.

Pangasinan Travel Requirements for Fully Vaccinated Tourists:

• Vaccination Card
• Valid Government-Issued ID
• All tourists  are encouraged to register at Pangasinan.tarana.ph.  

Pangasinan Travel Requirements for Non-Vaccinated and Partially-Vaccinated Tourists 

• Valid government-issued ID .
•   Negative RT-PCR Test or Antigen Test. Non-vaccinated or partially vaccinated tourists to Pangasinan must present a negative RT-PCR Test of Antigen Test result taken within 72 hours before travel from a valid DOH-accredited clinic.

  You can book your RT-PCR Test Result HERE .

HOW TO GO TO HUNDRED ISLANDS 

Manila to hundred islands.

If you are alone or a small group and you just want a hassle-free tour of Hundred Islands.  You can book a budget-friendly day tour from Manila to Hundred islands.

HUNDRED ISLANDS DAY TOUR: RESERVE HERE

By private vehicle.

As per Google Maps, this is the fastest route.

1.Get on NLEx/E1/R-8 in Balintawak from Epifanio de los Santos Ave/Pan-Philippine Hwy/AH26/C-4. Transit time is approximately 20 min (9.9 km).

2.Follow NLEx/E1/R-8 and N Luzon W Expy to Paniqui – Ramos Road in Tarlac. Take the exit toward Ramos/Paniqui from N Luzon W Expy/R-8.  Transit time is roughly 1 h 39 min (136 km).

3.Take Paniqui – Camiling Road, Romulo Hwy/Tarlac – Pangasinan Road and Olongapo – Bugallon Road to your destination in Alaminos.

Source: Google Maps

DIY TRAVEL GUIDE TO HUNDRED ISLANDS

IMPORTANT: Currently, there are NO PROVINCIAL BUSES bound for Alaminos, Pangasinan from Manila like Victory Bus Liner and Five Star Bus. The only way to get to Alaminos by land now is via private car/vehicle.  Follow Google Maps or Waze for directions.

Manila to Hundred Islands (DIY Guide)

In Cubao, Manila, ride a bus bound for Alaminos, Pangasinan. Victory Liner, Five Star Bus, Philippine Rabbit, and Dagupan Bus have daily trips to Alaminos. Fare is about ₱393 ($8) for airconditioned bus and roughly ₱350 ($7) for ordinary bus. Travel time is approximately 5 hours.

• IMPORTANT: Victory Bus from Cubao to Alaminos, Pangasinan is available from 2:00 AM – 11:50 PM. While their bus from Alaminos, Pangasinan to Cubao, Manila (via Dau, Pampanga) leaves hourly from 1:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Alight at Alaminos, Pangasinan bus terminal.

• Make your way to Lucap Terminal in front of SUKI supermarket.

Take a tricycle to Lucap Wharf, the jump-off point for island hopping. This is also where the Tourism Information Center is situated. Tricycle fare is about ₱15 ($0.31) per person and only leaves once full. Alternatively, you can charter the tricycle to Lucap Wharf for approximately ₱100 ($2).

At the Tourism information Center, register and pay the entrance fee + environmental fee + insurance + boat rental for island hopping on Hundred Islands.

Show the 2021 travel requirements for Hundred Islands such as the negative RT-PCR Test Result from Licensed Covid-19 Testing Center and valid ID if you are from GCQ area. Remember, only tourists from MGCQ and GCQ areas are allowed in Alaminos and ages 15 to 65.

• Fill out the passenger manifest form , you can get it from the tourism staff.

Submit the manifest form together with the travel requirements to the front desk staff for assessment.

Head to the Payment Counter. Pay the fees: Motorboat rental + ₱200 ($4) deposit for the “Basura Mu, Iuwi Mu” program and receive your trash bag. Your ₱200 ($4) deposit will be refunded to you upon your return of the trash bag on the designated area at the wharf.

7. Head to Boat Station . The boat dispatcher will assign you the motorboat.

8. Ride your boat . Remember to wear your life vest. Life jacket is free while ferrying to the islands only.

Clark, Pampanga to Hundred Island

• If you are coming from Clark Airport, take a jeepney to Dau Bus Terminal.
• At Dau Terminal, ride a bus (Victory Liner) to Alaminos, Pampanga.
• Get off at Alaminos bus terminal.
• Go to Lucap Terminal in front of SUKI supermarket.
• Ride a tricycle to Lucap Wharf. Tricycle fare is about ₱15 ($0.31) per person or ₱100 ($2) if you rent the entire tricycle.
• Walk to the Tourism information Center in Lucap Wharf. Register and pay the entrance fee +  environmental fee +  insurance + boat rental for island hopping on Hundred Islands.
• There’s also a ₱200 ($4) deposit for the trash bag. You can get a refund once you return the trash bag with your trash  when you return to the main land after you finish your island hopping tour.

HUNDRED ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK FEES

IMPORTANT: The Hundreds Islands has a “Basura mu, Iuwi Mu” (Bring your trash home) policy. Upon registration, you will need to deposit ₱200 ($4) and they will give you a trash bag. Once you return the garbage bag with your trash the deposit will be refunded to you.  This “Garbage in, Garbage out” policy of Hundred Islands is an initiative to free the park of garbage.

• FREE for 5 years old children and below
• 20% off for PWD and Senior Citizens
• Discounted are implemented on environmental fee and entrance fee only.
• Insurance is effective for 24 hours only.

HUNDRED ISLANDS ISLAND HOPPING BOAT RENTAL

For the Hundred Islands island hopping tour, you have to rent a boat. Boats at Lucap Park are available from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM only. Below is a list of boat rates for your reference.

• Tour Guide rate (Day Tour) – ₱1,000 ($20). Contact the Alaminos tourism office.
• Rates may change without prior notice.

THINGS TO DO IN HUNDRED ISLANDS 

There’s a wealth of activities in Hundred Islands, which is why it’s a great beach destination for families and friends.  Here are the rates of activities, make sure you inform the tourism staff upon your registration so they can prepare the gears and give you instructions.

1. Island Hopping. The Hundred Islands National Park is peppered with over a hundred islands and islets, it makes sense to go island hopping. But don’t fret, you don’t need to see all the 100 islands! The standard island hopping /day tour includes a visit to Governor’s Island, Quezon Island, Marcos Island and Children’s Island.

If you have the luxury of time, say for example you are staying overnight in Hundred Islands, you can also visit the following islands:  Old Scout Island, Devil Island, Romulo Island, Lopez Island, Martha and Ramos Island, Hernandez Island, Turtle Island, Abad Santos Island, Camantiles Island, Sulpot Island, etc.

2. Swimming. There’s over 100 Islands in the park where you can swim. The more popular islands that have been developed for tourism are Quezon Island, Marcos Island, Children’s Island and Governor’s Island.

3. Snorkeling. You can also snorkel and explore the colorful marine life especially the giant clams! Snorkeling gears are for rent for ₱250 ($5).

4. Helmet Diving. Aside from snorkeling, you can also try helmet diving in Hundred Islands for ₱400 ($8), good for 20 minutes.

5. Kayaking. If you’re up for more adventures at Hundred Islands National Park, rent a kayak for ₱250 ($5) per hour (good for 2 persons). Go canoeing from one island to the next! But make sure you wear a life vest for your safety.

6. Cliff jumping . Go cliff jumping at Marcos Island.

7. Zipline. You can try the zipline at Governor’s Island (546 meters) for ₱250 ($5) per jump. While the shorter zipline at Quezon Island (345 meters) costs ₱250 ($5) per jump. Meanwhile, the rate of the shortest zipline at Quezon Island (120 meters) is ₱100 ($2) per person.

8. Banana Boat. Have fun and enjoy the banana boat, ₱250 ($5) per person, minimum 6 persons required.

9. Jet ski . Hop on a jet ski and ride around the blue sea at Hundred Islands. Rate is ₱1,000 per15 minutes.

10. Rappelling . If you have the right gears, you can try rappelling at Hundred Islands.

11. Fishing. You can also try fishing in Hundred Islands. Fishing rods and bait are for rent for ₱150 ($3)for day tour and ₱250 ($5) for overnight stay.

12. Pilgrimage . Romulo Island in Hundred Islands was renamed to Pilgrimage Island because of the the Stations of the Cross built around the island.  It’s a rising pilgrimage site in Pangasinan, if not the Philippines. Here you’ll also find a gigantic statue of Jesus Christ and a superb view of the surrounding islands. Most of the photos featured in this Hundred Islands travel blog was taken at Pilgrimage Island.

WHERE TO STAY IN HUNDRED ISLANDS

If you ask me where to stay in Hundred Islands, I’d tell you right away to stay in Lucap, Alaminos. Last time, we stayed at a hotel near Lucap Park since it’s walking distance to the Tourism Office and Lucap Wharf, the main jumping off point for island hopping in Hundred Islands.

So, if you have limited time and you want to save on boat rental since the overnight boat rental is quite expensive, you can opt to do a day tour of Hundred Islands and just stay at resorts at the mainland overnight.

Also, eateries are concentrated at Lucap Park, a good place to dine at night. There’s also a souvenir shop for OTOP (One Town One Prouct) where you can buy souvenir food made in Pangasinan.  Souvenir shirts and other products are also sold by souvenir stores/shops nearby.

• Island Tropic Hotel and Restaurant
• Location: Lucap, Alaminos
• RESERVE HERE

* This is where we stayed last time, just in front of Lucap Park and walking distance to the wharf, Tourism Office, eateries, and souvenir shops. They offer free breakfast.

• Villa Lourdes
• RESERVE HERE or BOOK HERE
• Monte Rio Gardens Bed and Breakfast
• Hundred Islands Accommodation
• Vhauschild Transit Rooms
• Racho Hundred Island Accommodation
• RESERVE HERE  
• Hundred Islands Homestay

HUNDRED ISLANDS RESORTS

Can you actually stay  in Hundred Island overnight? Yes. If you are a large group and you want to stay in Hundred Islands, there are available guest house for rent in selected islands.  But since there are no restaurants or eateries in the island, make sure you bring your own food and drinks.

For those planning to rough it up, camping overnight is allowed in Hundred Islands prior to Covid. There’s a ₱200 tent pitching fee. Please verify with Alaminos City Tourism if it is still allowed to camp overnight in Hundred Islands.

Here are the rates in Hundred Islands for day tour and overnight stay.

HUNDRED ISLANDS ITINERARY + EXPENSES

Here’s a sample DIY Hundred Islands itinerary (2 days 1 night) and budget, perfect for a weekend trip. While you are in Alaminos, Pangasinan, better to include Patar Beach and Bolinao, Pangasinan in your itinerary. The sample itinerary below is our DIY itinerary to Hundred Islands prior to Covid.

NOTE: Like I mentioned above, currently there’s still no provincial buses to Alaminos City in Pangasinan going to Hundred Islands. Only cars and private vehicles are allowed.

If you want a hassle-free day tour from Manila to Hudred Islands, you can book a day tour below.

HUNDRED ISLANDS DAY TOUR: BOOK HERE

*Sample Hundred Islands travel budget below doesn’t include airfare, hotel, souvenirs, and drinks. And sample budget is per person budget if 2 persons.

  HUNDRED ISLANDS BUDGET BREAKDOWN

Here’s a sample Hundred Islands budget, good for 2 days 1 night stay. Take note that the sample budget is per person and this is good if you are a party of 2. Hotel, drinks, souvenirs, and airfare are not included in the budget breakdown.

If you are only doing a Hundred Islands day tour , estimated total expenses is roughly ₱2,086 – $43 (€36,SGD 57, MYR 176, KRW 47,897) per person, if you are a party of 2. If you are more than 2, sample budget can be lowered as you will be sharing on the tricycle fare and boat rental.

Hotel rooms in Lucap usually costs ₱1,200 ($25) to ₱2,000 ($41), good for 2 persons. So, if you’re able to book at this rate, just divide the cost and add it to the sample budget above, so you can have an idea how much it’ll cost for an overnight stay in Hundred Islands.

HUNDRED ISLANDS TRAVEL TIPS AND REMINDERS

• Always wear life jacket when riding the boat and when swimming, snorkeling, and doing other water sports activities.
• Stack up cash as everything is on cash basis.
• Include the boatman in your lunch budget.
• If you want to save, buy food and drinks at the market or grocery in Alaminos.
• Wear reef-friendly sunblock.
• Bring power banks. Although charging station is available, there is a fee.
• Bring water-proof bag and case for your gadgets.
• Bring drinking bottle and metal straw.
• Do not collect sand as souvenirs.
• Take your trash with you and dispose them properly. Leave nothing but footprints.
• Always bring vinegar when visiting a beach, just in case you get stung by a jelly fish. Better be safe than sorry. Although I never heard of any jelly fish incidents there.
• Bring food and drinks. There are stores in some islands where you can buy drinks and snacks, but they are quite expensive. You can buy basic commodities in the supermarket before riding the tricycle to Lucap Wharf.
• There are budget-friendly eateries at Lucap Park.
• There’s a comfort room at some developed islands like Governor’s Island.

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Hi Gael. I’m so excited to be reading about your blogs and itineraries which are so detailed and informative! I’ve been trying to connect like minded people who are passionate in travel like yourself to be able to share experiences and thoughts with other travellers especially to those who have not travelled before. I’d really love to share with you on how we can bring the world closer to one another by joining our travel network, sharing experiences and even helping the disadvantaged giving them a chance to be able to travel and see the world like everyone else. Cheers

Hi, just wanted to know your email add, we have an invitation that you might be interested in. Thanks

gaelhilotinblog (at) gmail (dot) com Thanks!

Thank you for sharing your 100 Islands adventure trip this Blog is very informative all that is needed to go there is here.

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100 Places to See After You Die

A travel guide to the afterlife.

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LIST PRICE $27.99

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Table of Contents

• Rave and Reviews

About The Book

About the author.

Ken Jennings is the  New York Times  bestselling author of  Brainiac ,  Maphead ,  Because I Said So! , and Planet Funny . In 2020, he won the “Greatest of All Time” title on the quiz show Jeopardy!  and in 2022, he succeeded Alex Trebek as a host of the show. He is living in Seattle during his mortal sojourn, but his posthumous whereabouts are still to be determined.

Product Details

• Publisher: Scribner (June 13, 2023)
• Length: 304 pages
• ISBN13: 9781501131585

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Raves and Reviews

"A gung-ho travel guide to Heaven, Hell, and beyond. . . . Jennings approaches his subject with a wry, ready-to-be-delighted open-mindedness.” — New Yorker

"Entertaining." — USA Today

"Light and irreverent. . . . long on knowledge and mercifully short on claims about the grand truth of things." — Washington Post

"Jennings’s breezy approach and exhaustive knowledge allow him to range from Twin Peaks to Dante’s Divine Comedy with ease, and even casual readers who dip in intermittently will be enlightened. Anyone curious about the great beyond should take a look." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"Ken Jennings knows about everything. That now includes the afterlife." — NPR

“Jennings conveys substantial amounts of information in his usual witty style, including lots of facts and zero proselytizing. . . . a lot of fun for trivia buffs and other curious souls.” — Booklist

“Everything you always wanted to know about the afterlife but were too alive to ask. . . . An entertaining, amusing collection.” — Kirkus Reviews

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United States Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 14, 2024

The United States isn’t a popular destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Most overseas tourists come here for a short vacation, visit one or two cities, and then head home. They usually stick to the big coastal cities or places like Disney.

And it wasn’t until COVID that Americans en-masse bothered to hop in their cars and explore their backyard.

The U.S. is massive country that lacks a lot of tourist infrastructure or good cross-country transportation. Hostels haven’t quite caught on, trains don’t go to many places, and we don’t offer working holiday visas to attract young working backpackers. In short, it’s hard to get around.

However, the United States has a lot to offer: stunning national parks, gorgeous landscapes, incredible and diverse culture, world-class music, and a variety of delicious cuisine that varies from region to region.

I think the U.S. is one of the best destinations in the world to road trip . I’ve done several multi-month road trips across the United States . While the coastal cities are fun, the U.S. really reveals itself in the middle and countryside (it’s much more affordable there too). It’s in the nooks and crannies of America that you get a sense of its quirks.

But even if you aren’t spending months visiting the country in a car, there’s still a lot you can do via train, bus, or plane.

This travel guide to the United States can help you navigate the country, save money, and get off the beaten path.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on the United States

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in the united states.

1. Explore New York City

The city that never sleeps is one of the greatest cities in the world. There’s nothing you can’t do or see and you’ll find every language and food from around the world here. From world-class museums and art galleries to innovative theater performances to unique restaurants to the expansive Central Park, you can fill a lifetime of activities here. You can take the ferry to Ellis Island, see the Statue of Liberty, hang with the hipsters in Brooklyn, see a Yankees game, and so, so much more. Check out my detailed guide for everything you need to do .

2. Visit the Grand Canyon

Words can’t describe how epicly beautiful the Grand Canyon is. It’s simply breathtaking. Most people just look out at the canyon from the overlook at the top, but its vast size and beauty are best appreciated with a hike down to the Colorado River so try to do that if you have time (make the time). The canyon itself is 6,000 feet deep, and you can find plenty of hikes to take you further into the canyon that will give you a chance to experience it in more detail. For a shorter hike, Grandview Trail to the first overlook at Coconino Saddle and back is only a couple of miles. If you have a whole day to spend and want to challenge yourself, try the 12.5 miles from Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!

3. Discover Austin

The warm weather, lively honky-tonks, funky house bars on Rainey Street, amazing walking and biking trails, tons of outdoor activities — Austin is great (I lived there for many years). You can always find great live music on 6th Street. On a hot day, Barton Springs pool is the perfect place to cool off, there’s always something to do, the food scene gets better and better, and everyone is very welcoming. It’s one of the best cities in the U.S., boasting a combination of nature, city, and delicious food. Be sure to binge on BBQ while you’re here!

4. Visit Glacier National Park

This is my favorite national park in the country. It’s home to gorgeous snow-topped mountains, a beautiful lake from which to admire said mountains, large glaciers, and hiking trails galore. It is one of the most mind-blowing places I’ve seen on my adventures. There are more than 700 miles of hiking trails in the park that provide everyone an opportunity to explore the landscape. Park rangers offer various programs and guided tours are also available. There are spots for fishing and additional trails for biking and horseback riding. (If you plan to visit multiple national parks while traveling throughout the United States, it’s worth it to get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and provides entry to all the national parks for a year.)

5. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast is considered one of the most scenic landscapes in the world, offering sheer cliffs, forests descending to the shoreline, miles of beaches, and giant redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs 1,650 miles from San Diego, California to Seattle, Washington taking you from the warm, sunny beaches to the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest. Highway 1 thorough California is one of the longest historic state highways in the country. The California portion alone route takes 10 hours without stopping but I recommend dedicating at least several days to enjoy all the great stops along the way.

Other Things to See and Do in the United States

NOTE: There’s a lot to do in the United States and you can spend months traveling around the country . I could write an entire book on the places to visit! This is just a list to give you some ideas. Be sure to check out some of my other articles and city specific guides (scroll to the bottom of this guide for links) for more suggestions.

1. Have fun in Memphis

Gritty and industrial, Memphis appears like its best days are behind it. But don’t let the rough exterior fool you — the city is home to some killer food and a vibrant blues music scene. It is a cool city with boisterous and friendly locals. I love the vibe here. There’s Graceland (Elvis’s home) for fans of the King, a big waterfront for walking, and the phenomenal Museum of Civil Rights (it’s huge, so don’t rush it!). The city is going through a big revival right now. To use a cliché, it’s a hidden gem as most people, to their detriment, skip over it.

2. Discover Asheville

Asheville is full of tasty craft beer, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor loving residents. The beautiful Smoky Mountains are a short drive away, Asheville Botanical Gardens are right near the university, and the gigantic Biltmore estate (the largest privately-owned home in the U.S. and once home to George Vanderbilt) is on the outskirts of the city. (If you’ve ever seen Downton Abbey, that’s what the house is like!) The town has a lot of parks and there are a lot of beautiful biking and hiking trails that you can get to from the center of town.

3. Explore Redwood National Park

Along the Pacific Coast is Redwood National Park, a huge expanse of towering redwood trees filled with picnic areas, places to camp, and miles upon miles of hiking trails. Trails range from easy to strenuous, and there are many loops that head out to nearby beaches. The trees range from 200-240 feet tall. It’s utterly beautiful, awe-inspiring, and humbling in every way. Admission is free, though the three adjoining state parks (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) each charge $10 USD.

4. Explore Denver

Known as the Mile High City (the city is one mile above sea level), Denver offers a mix of outdoor ruggedness and big-city living. It has a huge craft beer scene, excellent restaurants (including, Sushi Sasa, one of my favorite sushi restaurants), a large international airport with lots of connections, and is close to the mountains. There are a lot of interesting museums, including the Denver Art Museum, Meow Wolf Denver, and the Clifford Still Museum. There’s plenty of art outside of the museums as well and there are walking tours available to show you around, if you prefer that to exploring on your own. It’s clean, lively, and the locals are incredibly friendly.

5. Get off-the-beaten-path in Natchez

I was surprised by Natchez . I didn’t know anything about it when it was recommended as a place to see historic 19th-century homes. These mansions were built by white plantation owners wanting to escape the summer heat and socialize with each other. As cotton became king, the houses became ever larger and more elaborate. Today, the homes are historic monuments you can tour while enjoying a view of the Mississippi River. It’s far off the beaten path and you’ll need a car to visit but it’s worth the trek.

6. Visit Savannah

Sitting on Georgia’s coast, Savannah escaped the wrath of the Civil War, allegedly because General Sherman thought it was too pretty to be destroyed. With streets lined with Spanish moss-covered oaks, large and inviting parks, and a bustling waterfront, Savannah is a wonderful place to experience the slow pace of the South. There are a number of interesting historical sites like the Bonaventure Cemetery and Factors Row. The city is full of small squares and sprawling parks where you can enjoy a stroll or a picnic. And nearby Tybee Island is a draw for many visitors due to its sandy beaches and slow pace of life.

7. Dive into Nashville’s music scene

Nashville is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. It’s got a wonderful music scene (duh), a growing cocktail bar culture, and some world-class down-home Southern restaurants. There’s not a lot of “touristy stuff” to do here, but what makes this city one of my favorites are the music, the food, the wildly friendly people, and the positive energy the city seems to exude. When you’re here, plan to spend a few hours at the Tennessee State Museum. It goes into detail about the state’s history (and it’s more exciting than you might think!).

8. Catch some rays in sunny San Diego

I love San Diego. San Diego’s weather is almost always perfect, leading to a permanently happy population that’s friendly and outgoing and that loves the outdoors. From hiking, days at the beach, or running, people here love to get out and enjoy the sun. The downtown Gaslamp area — as well as the famous Pacific Beach — is full of trendy restaurants, bustling bars, and some seriously life-changing taco stalls.

9. Get tipsy in California’s Wine Country

California is home to some of the best wine in the world, and a visit to the Sonoma or Napa Valley shouldn’t be missed. While Sonoma is cheaper than Napa, both these destinations are meant for splashing out. Take a tour, book a cozy vineyard Airbnb, and enjoy a relaxing few days learning about the region’s wines. Tastings usually cost between $15-20 USD. If you go to Sonoma, check out Three Fat Guys winery. They have phenomenal reds.

10. Hike around Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is impressive and beautiful. Ringed by tiny mountain communities, this is a terrific place for hiking and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter. For fun in the sun, be sure to spend some time lounging at Kings Beach. For hikes, check out the Rubicon Trail (16 miles/25.7 kilometers) or the Cascade Falls Trail (1.4 miles/2.2 kilometers). You can’t really go wrong here.

11. Anywhere in Montana

A lot has been written about how stunning Montana is, but words cannot do this state justice. To me, it’s the most beautiful state in the Union, filled with wondrous mountains and hills as far as the eye can see. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and there is a huge craft beer scene here too, with tons of local breweries all around the state. If you want nature, good food, friendly locals, and just quiet, Montana is it!

12. Relax in Cape Cod

I spent a lot of summers on the Cape since I grew up in Boston. You’ll find plenty of small beach towns along the coast (Provincetown and Hyannis being the most famous but I also love Chatham, Falmouth, Wellfleet, and Brewster). There’s not a lot to “do” but if you’re looking for seafood, beaches, boardwalks, and that perfect family vacation, visit the Cape! Just avoid the weekends when it gets a little too crowded.

13. Explore Deadwood

Tucked away in western South Dakota, this town was famous during the Old West days (noteworthy enough to be the focus of the eponymous HBO series). Wyatt Earp, Calamity Jane, Wild Bill Hickok, and many other infamous gunslingers all spent time here. Sort of kitschy and re-created, it’s nonetheless a very cool place where you can experience a taste of the old frontier days. It’s also conveniently located near the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore so you can use it as a base for exploring the region.

14. Be surprised by Kansas City

I really loved this city, which features some of the world’s best BBQ and a lively downtown core. There’s a detailed and enlightening jazz museum here, as well as the eye-opening Negro Leagues Baseball Museum (that’s the actual name). This is yet another super underrated and under-visited destination.

15. Stay weird in Portland

Portland , Oregon is incredible. Here you’ll find an impressive food truck scene, cool bespoke bars and cocktail lounges, a craft beer scene that’s religion to residents, relaxing parks (including a peaceful Japanese garden), a vibrant art scene, and hiking in the nearby mountains. Portland is just an awesome city, especially in the summer when the weather is perfect and there are festivals and events galore.

16. Hike our national parks

America has 63 national parks as well as countless state and local parks. These parks highlight the best of the American wilderness. Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, Zion, Byrce, the Smokey Mountains, Rocky Mountain Park, the Badlands — the list goes on. Make sure you visit as many national parks as you can to get a sense of the grand and diverse landscape that is the United States. You can use this government map to find a park near you! If you plan to visit multiple parks, get the America the Beautiful Park Pass, which costs just $80 USD and gets you free entry to all the national parks for a year.

17. Admire the architecture in Chicago

One of my favorite cities in the world, Chicago is full of amazing architecture, great parks, delicious and hearty food, and a fun nightlife. One of the best ways to see the city’s unique architecture is on a river cruise. There are multiple operators and prices start around $45. Don’t miss trying deep-dish pizza (it was invented here, along with stuffed-crust pizza) and seeing the iconic “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park. Additionally, check out the city’s famous pier, aquarium, and waterfront park. The city also hosts one of the biggest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country.

18. Enjoy Lively New Orleans

This French-influenced city has incredible seafood and Cajun cuisine and even better live music. A visit to New Orleans is a must for any jazz or blues fan. Live music is available seven nights a week. Frenchman Street is one of the best places to go (my favorite venue is the Spotted Cat). There are also tons of amazing walking tours that highlight the city’s unique culture and history (including ghost and voodoo tours). Nature lovers will enjoy wandering through the massive oak trees in City Park where you can also visit the city’s Botanical Gardens, which are open year-round. Admission is $12. Plus, there’s incredible independent bookstores, creole food, art museums, and the simply incredible and informative World War 2 museum. Don’t skip roaming the redone and revitalized Bywater district too. It’s a bit hipster. If you plan on celebrating Mardi Gras in NOLA , book early. Accommodations fill up fast.

19. Get some sun in Hawaii

Closer to Asia than the United States, Hawaii is America’s slice of South Pacific paradise. White sands beaches, clear blue water, tropical jungle, and great surf — Hawaii has it all! Don’t miss the otherworldly landscapes of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the somber memorial at Pearl Harbor, and the hikes at Diamond Head and the Lanikai Pillbox Trail near Honolulu. There are a ton of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving where you get a chance to see manta rays, sea turtles, and plenty of colorful fish. Waimea Canyon and the Napali coast on the island of Kauai are places you can get up close and personal with the natural landscape. There are helicopter and boat tours or, if you’re up for a challenge, you can hike the iconic Kalalau Trail. Every island has its own vibe so, if you can, visit more than one.

20. Check out Boston

The birthplace of the revolution (and my hometown), no one leaves Boston disappointed. It’s a big city, but its lack of high-rises, as well as its cobblestone streets and brick buildings, give the city a small-town feel. The Freedom Trail, which covers all the main historic stops, is a must because it gives you a look at the city’s historic past. Be sure to lounge in the Boston Common and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park too (the city is big on sports).

21. Visit the nation’s capital

The country’s capital is home to many of the best museums in the country. And, given the large number of international embassy workers here, it’s unsurprising one of the most international cities in the country. You can find food from anywhere in the world thanks to all the embassies in the city. Plus, there’s a vibrant music and cocktail scene. Don’t miss the National Mall and all its monuments, the Holocaust Museum, and the various Smithsonian Museums (some of the best are the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of the American Indian, the African American Museum, the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Castle, and the American Art Museum). If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to see the cherry blossoms bloom along the Mall.

22. Learn about Mt. Rushmore

Completed in 1941, this historic monument in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a lot smaller than you expect, but it makes a good stop while driving. Originally, the indigenous Lakota Sioux inhabited this area, however, when gold was found in the hills, white settlers forcibly removed them from their homeland. At the Wounded Knee massacre, U.S. forces killed over 250 indigenous women and children. Decades later, Rushmore was built, much to the dismay of the local indigenous population, who consider the land to be sacred. Take a guided tour to learn more about this iconic monument’s complex and tragic history.

23. Be a kid at Disney World

Sure, it’s cheesy . Yes, it’s built for kids. True, it’s not authentic. But despite all that, Disney World is still a fun time and they have a lot of rides for adults too. I recently went back as an adult and there’s a lot to do there: they have some good restaurants, and Disney Springs has a fun nightlife. If you are in Florida, take a stop for a few days. Indulge your inner child. Tickets cost around $110 USD per day and go up from there.

24. Hike the Appalachian Mountains

Stretching the east coast of America, these mountains are almost 500 million years old and offer great hiking, camping, and trekking. For a multi-month adventure, hike the 2,190-mile (3,524-kilometer) Appalachian Trail which covers the entire mountain range and takes 5-7 months to complete. You can also do day hikes or weekend hikes of its various sections if you want a more manageable outdoor getaway.

25. Unwind in Put-In-Bay

One of the coolest, not-so-hidden places in the U.S. is this group of islands in Lake Erie. Widely known to Midwesterners (but unknown to most everyone else), South Bass Island is home to Put-in-Bay, where Midwest hospitality meets Caribbean vibes (you ride around in golf carts and bars have sand as floors). My favorite spot is Mojito Bay, an outdoor tiki bar with sand floors and swings for bar seats that offers up more than 25 different mojitos. These places get very wild on the weekends too.

26. Explore Maine

Tucked away up in the northeast, Maine evokes images of endless shorelines, wild forests, iconic lighthouses, and lots and lots of lobster dinners. It’s often overlooked yet it’s incredibly beautiful and perfect for a short road trip. Don’t miss trying lobster rolls (a regional favorite) and hiking in Acadia National Park. Portland has some great eateries (such as Duckfat and Eventide Oyster Co.) and picturesque historic lighthouses, including Maine’s oldest operating lighthouse, the Portland Head Light, which opened in 1791 when George Washington was president. Additionally, tiny Bangor is home to tons of breweries and Moosehead State Park is an incredible place to go hiking for a few days. And you can’t go wrong stopping in any of the quintessential New England fishing villages up and down the coast. Maine is one of the best states in the union!

27. Take a road trip

The only good way to see this vast and diverse landscape and the small towns that populate it is with a road trip . I highly suggest renting a car and driving across the U.S. It’s an amazing experience. I’ve done several coast-to-coast trips as well as regional trips around New England , California , and the South . It’s the best way to see the country and you can do it for under $50 USD a day.

For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

28. Take a tour

You can find all sorts of amazing walking tours, bike tours, and food tours all around the country. They’re a great way to get an in-depth look at the city you’re in with the help of an expert local guide. Take Walks is my go-to walking tour company when I’m looking for something thorough and insightful (and fun). They can get you behind the scenes and are much more comprehensive than your average free walking tour.

For information on specific cities in the United States, check out these city guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Los Angeles Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

United States Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels can be found in most major cities, though options are generally slim in the country. A bed in a dorm room with 4-6 beds usually costs between $35-55 USD per night. Rooms with more beds are marginally cheaper (they start around $25-30 USD per night). Private rooms are usually $75-125 USD. Expect prices on the higher end in bigger cities and during peak season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Hostels with free breakfast are rare.

If you plan on camping, expect to pay at least $20-30 USD per night for a basic tent plot for two without electricity.

Cheap motels usually start around $60-75 USD per night and can be found along any highway. Expect basic amenities like TV, Wi-Fi, and AC. Some have pools.

Budget two-star hotels start at $90 USD per night. But, in major cities like NYC, LA, or Chicago, they start closer to $125 USD. The U.S. is very vast and prices fluctuate a lot depending on what region you’re in so check out the specific city guides listed above for more detailed information on accommodation. The United States is too diverse to pin down a specific number!

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at $40 USD per night, though for good rooms, you’ll likely pay closer to $60 USD. For an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least $100 USD per night. Prices in large cities are usually double. Again, there’s a lot of variation depending on where you’re going so check out the city guides for more specific prices!

Food – From seafood in New England to BBQ in the South to Tex-Mex and organic whole foods in the West to German influenced food in the Midwest, there is no singular food culture in the US. Every region has its own staples, which means you’ll never get bored of eating your way around the country.

Since the country is so big, prices for food vary a lot. What is $5 USD in Kansas is probably $15 USD in New York City. Below are some country averages but, if visiting a big metropolis/coastal city, add about 25% to the price.

Grab-and-go sandwiches usually cost around $10 USD while fast food costs $10-12 USD for a combo meal. Meals from food trucks will cost between $10-15 USD. Mid-range casual restaurants cost between $25-30 USD for a meal and drink. At some place a little nicer (think white table cloth), expect to spend at least $60 USD per person on dinner. Prices go up from there and the sky is the limit. Again, consult the city and destination guides for specific prices.

You can generally find takeout pizzas for around $10-15 USD while Chinese and Thai cuisine start around $10-12 USD for a main dish.

Beer is around $6-8 USD, a glass of wine is $8-10 USD, and cocktails start at $14 USD in most cities (about $20 USD in NYC though!). A latte/cappuccino is $4-5 USD and bottled water is $2 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay about $60-80 USD per week for basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking the United States Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit the United States? Well, how much you spend largely depends on where in the United States you’re going to visit. For example, New York City is much more expensive than Memphis and San Francisco is going to hit your budget harder than Boise. The South is cheaper than the North and the interior states are cheaper than the coasts. The comparisons are endless! However, this overview can give you a basic look at what to expect based on your travel style and assuming you’re going to mix cheap and expensive destinations.

On a backpacking budget of $75 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do free activities like walking tours, hiking, and hanging out at beaches. If you plan on drinking, add another $10-20 USD per day. If you can camp or Couchsurf, you can likely get this down to $50-60 USD per day.

On a mid-range budget of $210 USD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or motel, eat out for most meals, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like museum visits and food tours.

On an upscale budget of $350 USD or more per day, you can stay in a midrange hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do as many guided tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

United States Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There are plenty of ways to save money when you travel the U.S. but it varies a lot by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help you get started but, for more specific tips, visit my city guides.

• Take a free tour – Taking a free walking tour is the best way to get introduced to a new place, and most major cities in the U.S. have free walking tours. You get to see the main sights and ask all your questions to a local guide. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Take the bus – The cheapest way to get around the U.S. is by bus. Bus fares cost as little as $1 USD, though 2-3-hour journeys start around $30 USD. Between cities, the best companies are Megabus, Greyhound, and FlixBus.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities. Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car.
• Get a U.S. Park Pass – This national park pass lets you into all the national parks for free so you don’t have to keep paying admission. The annual fee is $80 USD and it pays for itself after four parks.
• Cook – The United States has some of the cheapest groceries in the developed world, while eating out here can add up quickly once you factor in a tip and tax (which varies by state). Grocery shopping can about $60 USD per week and is way cheaper and healthier than eating out every day. Cook and save!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing lets you stay with a local for free, cutting your accommodation costs drastically. You’ll get to spend time with a local who can share their tips and advice while sharing your own travel stories and culture. You can also use the app to meet people for activities (coffee, museum visits, etc.) if you don’t feel comfortable staying with a stranger.
• Camp – Most campsites start around $20-30 USD per night for a tent — much cheaper than a hostel. You can use nps.gov to find campsites run by the National Park Service. You can also camp for free in National Forests or Bureau Land Management (BLM) lands (search for “dispersed camping” options). Just be sure to respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when camping.
• Use city tourism cards – City tourism cards allow you to see a large number of attractions (and often include free public transportation) for one low price, usually $75–100 USD. If you plan on seeing a lot, these can save you a ton.
• Share your ride – If you have a car, taking on riders can be a way to lower your costs. On my first trip across the U.S., I offered rides to people I met in hostels. On another trip, I had friends and readers join me along the way. You can post ads on Craigslist and at hostels to find riders. This not only makes the trip more enjoyable but lowers your gas costs too. If you don’t have a car, you can use look for rides in the same places.
• Stay at roadside hotels – There are a plethora of cheap roadside hotels such as Motel 6 and Super 8 to the rescue. Rooms start around $60-75 USD a night (plus tax). They’re great when you’re traveling with someone and can split the cost.
• Find free museums and events – Inquire at tourism offices, use Google, or ask hotel or hostel staff for information about free events and museums. Many museums offer free or discounted admission times throughout the week.
• Get free water or free refills – If you order a drink, most restaurants allow free refills while you eat your meal or refills at a low cost. If you ask, tap water is usually provided for free.
• Save on gas – If you’re on a road trip, use the app GasBuddy to find cheap gas near you. Also, sign up for gas station loyalty programs as they can save you money on fill ups.

Where to Stay in the United States

Hostels are not all that plentiful across the United States yet. Generally, those that do exist are clean, social, and fun. You’ll find a lot of budget hotels wherever you go. here are some of my recommended places to stay around the USA (the cities guides will have even more suggestions):

• HI Hostel (Boston)
• The Revolution Hotel (Boston)
• HI Hostel (Chicago)
• The Arlo (Chicago)
• Banana Bungalow (Los Angeles)
• Hollywood Historic Hotel Los Angeles
• Hostel Memphis (Memphis)
• Hu Hotel (Memphis)
• Freehand (Miami)
• Hotel Ocean (Miami)
• HI New Orleans (New Orleans)
• Villa Convento (New Orleans)
• The Local (New York City)
• Heritage Hotel (New York City)
• ITH Adventure Hostel (San Diego)
• Old Town Inn (San Diego)
• The Green Tortoise (San Francisco)
• SW Hotel (San Francisco)
• The Green Tortoise (Seattle)
• MarQueen Hotel (Seattle)

How to Get Around the United States

City transportation – Most U.S. cities have public transportation, including metro systems and buses. Fares cost around $2-3 USD for a single journey, but there are usually packaged options for visitors. For example, you can get a 7-day unlimited MetroCard in New York City for $34 USD, which covers both buses and the subway system, while San Francisco offers a 7-day transit pass for $41 USD.

Outside of major cities, subways are rare. Some of the smaller cities have trams. Everywhere has a bus though and that’s usually the best way to get around.

Taxis – Taxis are metered with charges starting around $3 USD plus $2-3 USD per mile. This is one of the most expensive ways to get around, however, so I’d skip it unless you have no other choice.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are generally cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.

Intercity Bus – Taking the bus is one of the cheapest options for getting around the country, with fares as low as $1 USD if you book far enough in advance. Popular bus companies include:

A 4-5-hour bus ride from New York to Washington D.C. starts at $30 USD, while the 7-hour journey from Chicago to Detroit starts at $27 USD. Austin to New Orleans is around $54 USD. Booking early can save you upwards of 50% so try to plan ahead if you’re going to be taking the bus.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Flying – Flying is your quickest option for long distance. You can occasionally find sales for as little as $100 USD so it’s worth it to check several websites ahead of time to see what deals are on. Post-COVID, fares are a lot higher than they were in the past. But if you find a deal, book in advance, or go off season, you can usually get a cheap fare. Sample one-way fares include San Francisco to Maui for $100-150 USD, Seattle to Austin for $85-115 USD, or New York to L.A. for $250 USD (round trip). However, prices can easily double if booked last minute.

For more information on how to find a cheap flight, check out this article .

Train – Amtrak is the rail provider for the United States, but it’s not the quickest or most affordable way to travel. They have routes all around the country ( here’s their route map ) and offer a cross-country pass for $499 USD. The USA Rail Pass gives you 30 days of travel over 10 segments, which averages out to around $50 USD per leg.

If you have a valid student ID you can save 15% on your tickets.

As for prices, A 20-hour train ride from Chicago to New Orleans costs around $110 USD, while a multi-day trip from New York to Los Angeles is around $280 USD. Book in advance to find the best deals. Shorter trips lasting 2-4 hours are usually under $40 USD.

Car rental – Roadtripping is a great way to explore the country, and car rentals can be found for as little as $35 USD for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in the United States is common and safe. Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and a light meal or two, like sandwiches and fruit. Hitchwiki is a great resource for additional hitchhiking tips.

When to Go to the United States

Since the United States is such a large country, the climate and temperature change drastically from coast to coast and from north to south.

The northern states have clearly defined seasons. In cities like Chicago, Boston, and New York, winter can bring heavy snowfall and more severe temperatures. Coastal areas like Seattle and Portland, Oregon, tend to be milder. Spring can start as late as May in the northernmost parts of the country, but this is a good time to visit because the weather begins to warm up and the busy tourist season hasn’t started yet. Summers are gorgeous and temperatures climb into the 80s°F (30s°C). It’s also the busiest time of year for tourism. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the northern states because many parts of this region have a lot of trees. Temperatures have cooled, crowds have dwindled, and the changing leaves offer an something extra to enjoy.

The southern states have less defined seasons. In the southwest, winters tend to be dry and mild. In the southeast, temperatures are mild but places like and Memphis can be rainy. Spring is a wonderful time to visit this part of the country because temperatures are warm but not stifling. Summers get incredibly hot and humid in the southeast. In the desert areas of the southwest, like Las Vegas, temperatures can soar well above 104°F (40°C) on some days. Autumn cools things off across the southern states, but can also bring severe weather in the southeast. .

Ultimately, the best time to travel to the United States depends on where you’re headed and what kind of activities you’d like to do. Visit our city guides for more specific information on when to go.

How to Stay Safe in the United States

The United States is a massive country and “safety” changes a lot depending on where you go and what you do. Generally, the US safe place to travel around — even if you’re traveling solo.

Violent attacks tend to be confined to certain areas (especially where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, especially around popular tourist landmarks and in larger cities, especially on the west coast where theft is a much more common problem. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times, especially while taking crowded public transportation.

Gun violence and mass shootings tend to dominate headlines when they happen. However, the chances of it happening to you are slim. Do not let this discourage you from exploring the United States. The U.S. is very big and very, very diverse. And, due to this size, there is a lot of cultural (and political) variation. Despite what you hear, crime in America is low. (There was far more crime in the US in the 1990s!). For more information, read this post, “ Is it Safe to Visit the United States?”

If you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Take common sense safety measures and you’ll be fine.

Moreover, be sure to read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When hiking, always bring water and sunscreen. Be sure to check the weather before you depart and dress accordingly.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe but all the standard safety cautions apply. For specific tips, I would read one of the many incredible solo female travel blogs on the web. They’ll give you tips and advice that I can’t.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

United States Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

United States Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in San Francisco: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

The 5 Best Hotels in San Francisco

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

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Take a Gorgeous Route 100 Vermont Road Trip (2024 Itinerary)

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: January 5, 2024

Categories Destinations , Get Outside , New England USA , road trips , United States , Vermont

Ready to embark on a Vermont road trip you won’t soon forget? The drive on scenic Route 100 in Vermont has been called “Vermont’s most beautiful road” many times over.

This incredible road trip can be completed in a single day, but what’s the fun in that?

Take five days and embark on an enchanting Route 100 Vermont road trip to explore some of the best nooks and crannies in the Green Mountains.

At 216.6 miles, Vermont’s longest state highway is also one of the most scenic and well-loved, meandering through the Green Mountains, as well as charming New England villages with all the quintessential Vermont goodness that you’ve been dreaming of.

Vermont Route 100 runs straight through the center of the state, from north to south.

Along the way, you’ll find a wealth of recreation opportunities, not to mention fabulous shopping, dining, and lodging. It’s no wonder Yankee Magazine named Vermont’s Route 100 one of the best summer road trips in New England.

Of course, summer isn’t the only time to experience the charms of Route 100!

If you’ve got five days to spend in the Green Mountains, then we have the perfect road trip itinerary for you on Vermont Route 100.

Explore all that this beautiful mountain road has to offer, from pristine lakes and secret swimming holes to magnificent vistas and quiet campgrounds. The Green Mountains are a little slice of heaven for outdoor lovers of every persuasion.

Table of Contents

Print this itinerary!

Cell service is notoriously spotty in the Green Mountains. Download a printable itinerary so that you don’t miss any of these amazing stops!

Route 100 Vermont Road Trip: At-A-Glance

Here’s a bite-sized snapshot of everything you need to know to plan your Vermont Route 100 road trip:

When to go: May to October How to get there: Fly into Albany International Airport and rent a car for your journey. How long to spend: 5 days should give you plenty of time, but you can do it in 3 or extend it to a week or more. Where to stay: Day 1: Wilmington Inn in Wilmington, Day 2: Main + Mountain in Ludlow , Day 3: The Pitcher Inn in Warren , Day 4: T he Stowe Village Inn in Stowe , Day 5: Newport City Inn & Suites in Newport. Top 3 highlights: Vermont Country Store , President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site , Mount Mansfield.

Did you know that we have a sister site all about travel in Vermont? Check out Vermont Explored to start planning your next adventure in the Green Mountains. From road trips and hiking guides to festivals and small-town itineraries, Vermont Explored is covering it all!

Vermont Route 100 Road Trip FAQs

We get a lot of questions about traveling through Vermont, so we just wanted to take some time to answer the ones we get most often. If you have any other questions about road-tripping through Vermont, or about traveling on Route 100, simply leave a comment and we’ll answer ASAP.

Should we drive Route 100 in Vermont from south to north or north to south?

We recommend driving this route from south to north. Why? Because the southern end of Route 100 is closer to major metropolitan areas and airports. The beginning of this road trip is 60 miles from Albany International Airport in New York, 126 miles from Logan International Airport in Boston, and 205 miles from JFK in New York City.

Once you’ve completed the 189-mile drive on Route 100 from Wilmington to Newport, you can hop onto Interstate 91 and head south again.

When is the best time to see fall foliage on Route 100 in Vermont?

You will see fall colors on Route 100 from late September through most of October. October is the busiest month for tourists in Vermont, who come from all over to see the leaves change.

The speed limit on Route 100 varies wildly from 25 mph in town centers to 50 mph between towns, so no matter what time of year you plan to drive it, plan on taking your time!

Will we have access to amenities on Route 100?

Yes! One of the most beautiful things about a Vermont Route 100 road trip is that you travel through the Green Mountain National Forest and the mountains, but you’re never very far from a village or town, which means you’ll have easy access to gas stations, grocery stores, hotels, and campgrounds.

A 5-Day Vermont Route 100 Road Trip Itinerary

We’ll start our journey in Southern Vermont, in the little town of Wilmington, and head north on Vermont Route 100 to Newport, just south of the Canadian border.

This is a five-day road trip that is best completed in the summer or fall. In the summer, you can take advantage of lots of swimming and camping. In the fall, you can explore small villages, charming inns, and of course, that incredible Vermont fall foliage.

Day 1: Wilmington, Vermont

Today you’re exploring the beautiful village of Wilmington. Relax by the lake, spend some time downtown, and eat at one of our favorite Vermont restaurants. Driving time: Depends on where you’re coming from.

It’s no secret that Wilmington is one of my favorite Vermont towns, perhaps because the lakes and mountains are so accessible here. Just south of the village is the beautiful Lake Whitingham, also known as Harriman Reservoir.

Covering more than 2,000 acres, Lake Whitingham is the largest lake in Southern Vermont.

Lake Whitingham is the perfect place for swimming, sailing, paddling, and fishing, and yes, you’ll see a good number of cruisers, speedboats, and jet skis too. The beaches and picnic areas that surround the lake are free to use, and there’s even a clothing-optional zone just a short walk from the picnic area at Wards Cove.

If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t pass up a trip to the lake! The foliage is stunning, especially if you can capture it early in the morning when the lake is still.

After you spend some time at the lake, head back to Wilmington for a little meandering.

The town itself is small, with only 2,000 full-time residents. You’ll find a lovely, walkable Main Street, cute stores, and plenty of restaurants. We love browsing Bartleby’s Bo oks, the 1836 Country Store, and Red Fox Shop.

Where to Eat: Locals love Dot’s Diner for a big, traditional breakfast, and we’d recommend Alpenglow Bistro for your special date night.

Where to stay: If you’re looking to pitch your tent, head a few miles east to Molly Stark State Park , where you’ll find a quiet, wooded campground with private sites and hot showers. After setting up camp or before heading out in the morning, be sure to hike to the top of Mt. Olga (a 1.5-mile loop) for stunning views of the surrounding mountains – sunrise from the fire tower is the best!

If roughing it isn’t your thing, we recommend checking into the Wilmington Inn , which is located right on Main Street and very close to the Valley Trail if you want. a short hike before setting out in the morning. A stay in this historic inn includes a full Vermont breakfast.

Also Read: The Complete Guide to Exploring Wilmington, Vermont

Day 2: Wilmington to Ludlow

This section of Vermont Route 100 heads through the southern section of the Green Mountain National Forest. You’ll be stopping in several small towns, swimming in the West River, and taking in the views from the top of Mount Snow.

Driving distance: 53 miles

Mount Snow: Four Seasons of Recreation Opportunities

As you head out of Wilmington on Route 100, you’ll quickly enter the town of West Dover, home of Mount Snow . This is a very popular ski mountain, but it’s open in all four seasons. In the summer and fall, you can enjoy lift-serviced mountain biking, or simply ride the gondola to the top of the mountain for fantastic views of the Somerset Reservoir and the surrounding Green Mountains.

The Bluebird Express gondola runs on the weekends from 10 am to 5 pm between June and mid-October. Lift tickets are $24 for adults (13+) and $19 for kids (5-12). Kids under 5 ride for free.

Jamaica State Park: Swim in the West River!

Continue north on Route 100 until you enter the tiny town of East Jamaica, where you will turn left to stay on Route 100 (also Route 30) and head toward the village of Jamaica. While there isn’t much to the town, Jamaica State Park is a gem of a spot in both summer and fall.

The park features a rail trail, camping, and a playground, but the highlight is swimming at Salmon Hole in the West River.

This is the site of the “Salmon Hole Massacre” where a group of French men and Native Americans ambushed British Soldiers in 1748.

An archaeological dig in 2010 revealed a large campsite on the banks of Salmon Hole. More than 3,000 artifacts were unearthed, including stone tools and spear points. Most were dated between 1000 and 1600 AD, but the oldest artifact discovered is believed to be more than 7,000 years old.

By now your tummy must be growling. For awesome burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes, head to Honeypie on Route 30 in Jamaica. This is a quick diner-type stop, but so good!

Here are our favorite things to do at Jamaica State Park !

Weston, VT : Visit the Vermont Country Store

Weston is another one of those picturesque New England villages, complete with a little town green, several unique stores, and the famous Weston Playhouse. Shopping in Weston is like taking a step back in time, so that’s what’s on the agenda.

Located across from the village green on Main Street, the Vermont Country Store is a step back in time you won’t want to miss. The aisles are stocked to the rafters with penny candy, maple syrup, apothecary items, household goods, and lots of local goodies.

Browse the crowded aisles to discover the largest collection of weathervanes in Vermont, the Vermont Scale Museum, and a year-round Christmas shop.

And speaking of Christmas, no matter what time of year you visit the Vermont Country Store, it’s always a good time to grab some one-of-a-kind Vermont gifts for your friends and family back home.

Ludlow, VT: Settle in at Main + Mountain

Finally, make your way to Ludlow, Vermont, located in Okemo Valley and home to Okemo Mountain Resort. Ludlow is a small community, but you will find a few unique shopping and dining opportunities, as well as several trails and swimming holes. Buttermilk Falls is a popular swimming spot at the base of a lovely waterfall. Not to be missed on a hot summer day!

Where to eat and sleep: For really unique dining, check out Homestyle Hotel . The small, neighborhood restaurant serves up an eclectic mix of local dishes, all created fresh daily and lovingly prepared. For lodging, we recomme nd checking out their sister site, Main + Mountain , which has 13 modern rooms in the walkable downtown area.

Day 3: Ludlow to Waitsfield

This section of Route 100 in Vermont is characterized by very small towns, mountainous terrain, and acres of farmland. For much of the drive, you will follow the eastern slope of the Green Mountains, along the border of the Green Mountain National Forest . There are too many fun stops to mention, so I’m going to focus on my favorites. Driving distance: 70 miles

Plymouth Notch, VT : Visit the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site

About 18 miles north of Ludlow, turn right on Route 100A and drive a mile to President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site . Plymouth Notch is the birthplace and boyhood home of our 30th president, and his homestead and the surrounding village are virtually unchanged since the 20th century.

The village is known as the Plymouth Notch Historic District and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Meander around the 600 acres, visit the Calvin Coolidge Museum and Education Center, and check out dozens of historically preserved buildings.

Long Trail Brewing Company in Bridgewater Corners

After leaving Plymouth, continue north on 100A to the town of Bridgewater Corners, where you’ll find the famous Long Trail Brewing Company .

This quaint riverside pub and restaurant is the perfect lunch spot, and the view is pretty great too! In addition to their popular Long Trail Ale, they make a variety of delicious seasonal craft beers that you won’t find in stores.

Moss Glen Falls, Granville , Vermont

Moss Glen Falls in Granville is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vermont . This picturesque waterfall is more of a roadside attraction than anything else, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Because Moss Glen Falls is located right off Vermont Route 100, it will only take a few minutes to check it out. Bring your camera!

There’s no swimming at Moss Glen Falls, so if you’re passing through on a hot summer day, please continue north to Warren Falls for a little dip. Warren Falls can be extremely busy in the summer, but it’s a great spot to cool off.

Vermont has beautiful, accessible waterfalls. Here’s a review of our favorite Vermont waterfalls

Dining and Lodging in the Mad River Valley

Where to stay: After a long day of driving, swimming, and adventuring, it’s time to settle in for the night in the village of Warren For a unique, high-end lodging opportunity, check out The Pitcher Inn, which features luxurious rooms and an onsite spa. It’s a splurge, but well worth it!

Where to eat: Visit the original home of American Flatbread Pizza at Lareau Farm in Waitsfield — undoubtedly the best wood-fired pizza in the state of Vermont.

Day 4: Waitsfield to Stowe

You won’t be driving much today because this section of Vermont Route 100 is packed with things to do! T

he Waterbury/Stowe area is fabulous in all four seasons, and if you’re feeling short on time, I urge you to give this section an extra day. Here are some of our favorite tourist attractions and natural areas on Route 100 between Waitsfield and Johnson. Driving distance: 24 miles

Waterbury, VT : Home of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

Waterbury is about 14 miles north of Waitsfield. It is home to Ben & Jerry’s Factory Store, where guided tours are offered daily. Learn how Vermont’s famous ice cream is made, and be sure to stop at the flavor graveyard to pay your respects to the “dearly de-pinted”.

After your tour and tasting, head to Waterbury Center State Park , which is located just off Route 100 and is one of our favorite spots for paddling, fishing, picnicking, and remote camping.

The park is located on a 90-acre peninsula on the shores of the Waterbury Reservoir. The reservoir was constructed by the CCC in the 1930s as a flood control project to protect the towns and villages along the Winooski River. The reservoir is surrounded by mountains and is a gorgeous spot to spend the day, hike a trail, or go for a swim.

There is front-country camping available on Waterbury Reservoir at Little River State Park , which is our top state park for kids in the whole state.

Just a half-mile from Waterbury Center State Park is Cold Ho llow Cider Mill. Not only is this one of Vermont’s top tourist attractions, but it also has pretty delicious cider donuts. Pop in for lunch or some fresh baked goods, and don’t forget a gallon of cider for your cooler!

Stowe, VT : Home to Vermont’s Highest Peak

A Route 100 Vermont road trip wouldn’t be complete without spending a full day in Vermont’s most adorable mountain village. Stowe is known as a ski town, but it’s equally lovely in the summer and fall, with all kinds of shops, restaurants, and coffee shops to explore.

At 4,395 feet, Mt. Mansfield in Stowe is Vermont’s highest mountain. On a clear day, you can see west to Lake Champlain, north to Canada, and east to New Hampshire. There are several trails leading to the top, but if you don’t have time for an all-day hike, consider the auto toll road at Stowe Mountain Resort.

The toll road takes you right to the top of Mt. Mansfield, the peak that is locally called “the nose.” From the nose, you can hike along the ridge of the mountain to the chin (2.8 miles round trip), which is the official highest point in Vermont.

The top of Mt. Mansfield is one of two areas in the state where you can find an alpine tundra ecosystem. This is a very fragile area, and hikers are asked to stay on marked trails and to keep dogs leashed at all times.

After your hike, be sure to stop at the Alchemist Brewery and Visitor Center   to try out New England’s most famous beer, Heady Topper. The brewery and visitor center are located on Cottage Club Road in the village of Stowe.

You will likely meet many fellow road trippers here — people come from near and far to stock up on the Alchemist brews. You are usually limited to 6 four packs of any variety.

If you have time, consider a side trip through Smuggler’s Notch on Route 108. This is a narrow pass through Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak, but not suitable for RVs. The roadside is flocked by huge boulders and dark caves, perfect for scrambling around.

There are several trails along the roadside, including a lovely hike to Bingham Falls. The trail is an easy 1.6 miles round trip and brings you to one of the state’s most lovely waterfalls.

Where to Stay: There are numerous lodging options in Stowe, and we would be hard-pressed to pick a favorite. We have enjoyed The Stowe Village Inn and Trapp Family Lodge on numerous occasions, but there are hotels, lodges, and motels at every price point!

Where to Eat: Doc Ponds has a limited menu, but those tacos are divine! Have a root beer float for dessert and you’ll be golden ’till morning.

Read Next: 18 Delightful Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont

Day 5: Stowe to Newport

The last leg of your road trip on Vermont Route 100 is characterized by a wild stretch of road. The further north you go, the better your chances of seeing one of North America’s largest mammals, the massive moose. Be on the lookout for these gentle giants, especially along the roadside, where they pose a threat to unsuspecting motorists. Driving Distance: 48 miles

Newport, VT : Where Vermont Meets Canada

As you head out of Stowe and into Hyde Park, be sure to take in the spectacular views of Mt. Mansfield behind you. You have entered the famous Northeast Kingdom, an area known for its wild and rugged beauty .

Heading north, you’ll pass through several small towns, including Eden, Lowell, Westfield, and Troy, before heading into the relative metropolis of Newport.

Located on the shores of Lake Memphremagog, Newport is a bustling place these days. Main Street is lined with restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. Several waterfront overlooks allow you to take in the majestic views of the massive glacial lake, which covers 41 square miles.

In the summer months, you can rent kayaks and bikes from the Great Outdoors to explore Newport’s natural beauty. Lake Memphremagog can be windy, so your best bet is to stick to South Bay, as well as the Black and Barton Rivers, which flow into it.

The Newport Bebee Bike Path starts in the downtown area and runs for about six miles along the shore of the lake and into Canada (bring your passport if you choose to cross the border).

Where to Eat: For casual waterfront dining, check out the Eastside Restaurant & Pub . If you’re looking for the best Thai and sushi in the Northeast Kingdom, you have to try Dusit Thai Cuisine . The owners relocated from Thailand in 2015, and have been wowing locals and visitors with their delicacies ever since.

Where to Stay: For a no-frills stay with comfy beds and an indoor pool, check out Newport City Inn & Suites . Want to end your Route 100 trip with a lakeside vacation? This beautiful four-bedroom home on Lake Memphremagog sleeps 10!

Where to Camp: With 75 huge campsites for both tents and RVs, a swimming beach, and a playground area, Prouty Beach & Campground is a fun and inexpensive way to explore Newport and the surrounding communities. It’s a county park, right next to the bike path, and less than a mile from downtown Newport.

Route 100 Vermont Map

Here are all the stops mentioned in this Vermont Route 100 itinerary. Simply tap the icon in the upper right corner to make the map bigger and explore.

Where to Next?

After traveling through the mountains on Route 100 from south to north, you can easily hop on Interstate 91 in Newport, which will whisk you away to points south.

If you’re up for further adventures, you can head north into Canada (Montreal is two hours away) and the Eastern Townships are right over the border, southwest into Burlington and the Champlain Valley, or south on the Connecticut River Byway.

We’ve got a lot more travel ideas for New England and the Northeast, so feel free to look around.

Resources for Planning Your Vermont Road Trip Itinerary on Route 100

We’ve been traveling around Vermont for a pretty long time, but we’re always discovering new places to go and cool things to see. Here are the books, maps, and resources we used to plan this journey.

• For our favorite books about adventuring in Vermont, read:   Books About Vermont for Exploring Like a Local
• Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing – Vermontvacation.com is a fabulous resource for finding cool things to do throughout the state. Sign up for their mailing list or order a free vacation guide before your trip.
• Discover Newport Vermont – Plan your stay in Newport and the surrounding communities.
• Go Stowe – All the happenings in and around Stowe, VT

What to Pack for Your Vermont Route 100 Road Trip

Not sure what to pack for your Route 100 road trip? Keep it casual! You’ll be doing a lot of outdoor adventuring, and even the in-town activities (shopping, museums, and restaurants) don’t require fancy duds. One thing you won’t find on Route 100 is nightlife, so leave the fancy dress and heels behind. Here are some more packing must-haves to help you make the most of your trip.

• Activewear – You’ll be spending some time outdoors and you want to be comfy. Opt for sturdy non-cotton pants ( like these ) and a breathable, moisture-wicking shirt. I love Merino wool shirts because they keep you cool when it’s hot out and warm when it’s cold out, plus they don’t stink like polyester blends and they dry quickly.
• Sturdy shoes – Again, you want your feet to take you wherever you need to go. In summer, sandals that can double as water shoes are awesome, plus a pair of rugged hikers.
• Swimwear – The swimming holes in Vermont are cold and clear. If you do this road trip in the summer, be prepared with a bathing suit and a towel. We use these quick-dry towels when traveling because the heavy cotton ones take too long to dry.
• Jackets – The weather in Vermont is fickle, especially in the mountains. In the summer, you will be fine with a fleece and a rain jacket. For fall travel, add a down puffy jacket and a wool hat. These down jackets pack down really small and are perfect for travel.
• A real map – Cell service is notoriously spotty in certain regions of Vermont. We love the DeLorme Atlas for Vermont and New Hampshire to keep us found. We’ve been using it for years!

Don’t forget to download your printable itinerary before your Vermont road trip!

Follow us on social media for more road trip ideas!

Tara is a freelance writer and travel blogger with a passion for outdoor adventures. She is the co-author of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont and currently blogs at Back Road Ramblers and Vermont Explored , where she shares travel tips, adventure destinations, and vacation ideas for the wanderer in everyone.

Thursday 11th of April 2024

So glad I found this site! I will be driving to Stowe from Hartford CT airport in the last week of September. What route would you recommend from theCT airport to route 100? Thanks

Tara Schatz

Friday 12th of April 2024

Hi Ash, It depends on how much time you have. If you are short on time, I would head up 91 and cut over to Route 100 in White River Junction so you can go through Quechee and Woodstock before heading north on 100 near Killington. If you have a little more time, get off 91 in Rockingham and go to the Vermont Country Store and get on Route 100 in Chester.

Cherie Lynn Smith

Monday 18th of March 2024

We are planning our trip and staying in Andover. The dates that work best for us are October 18th-25th. We planned to follow the route the Route 100 Itinerary that is outlined on this page. Any concerns or suggestions as to us being able to see colors during this timeframe?

Historically the colors peak earlier than the dates you've mentioned, but last year was an exception, with bright foliage into the third week of October. It's been a bit of a gamble lately! If you have wiggle room, I would plan your trip a week earlier than this.

Thursday 5th of October 2023

Just FYI, taking this trip next week, was hoping to ride that bluebird express gondola, but found it ends Oct 9, and is only available Fri-Sun during summer, not midweek, you might want to mention that. I did find that Killington resort has gondola rides midweek while we're there, but you must book online. J

Thursday 10th of August 2023

Hi!!! Thank you for this article! We are planning to visit Vermont in October and we will be doing a road trip from Toronto! We are also going to bring our dog, may I know if these places are pet-friendly? Thank you!

Saturday 12th of August 2023

Hi Lindsey -

We travel with our dogs all the time and overall, Vermont is very pet-friendly. I can't speak to each hotel or lodging opportunity on this list, but it's easy enough to look that up on the hotel website. When I update this article, I will be sure to add whether or not dogs are allowed in the various spots.

Tuesday 1st of August 2023

Traveling to Vermont end of September and staying a week. I read somewhere you should start north to have a better chance of changing of the leaves and end south. Not sure if this is true. I keep reading about route 100 being beautiful. Need a route suggestion with starting and ending point. I could also use suggestions on what areas I should look for lodging as we travel. Will have my 83 year old mother and a friend with me.

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Hi Cyndie- Thanks for your comment. Fall foliage is just beginning at the end of September, so you can pretty much stay up north and in the mountains if your goal is to see the leaves. Stowe has lots of hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts, and while it will be busy that time of year, it makes a great home base for your explorations. I am also the editor of Vermont Explored, a website dedicated to travel in Vermont. Here's the link: https://vermontexplored.com

• Japan Travel Guide

100 TOKYO SPOTS

Welcome to “Stella Lee’s 100 Tokyo Spots,” a meticulously curated guide to the vibrant city of Tokyo. Created by Stella Lee, a seasoned traveler with a deep-rooted connection to Tokyo, this guide is the culmination of years spent exploring the nooks and crannies of this dynamic city. With extensive experience living in Tokyo and frequent travels between Jakarta and Tokyo over a decade, Stella offers an insider’s view into the city’s most exciting and hidden gems.

What Makes This Guide Unique

• Expert Insights: Stella’s personal experiences and long-term stay in Tokyo provide unique insights that go beyond the typical tourist experience.
• Diverse Spot Selection: The guide covers a comprehensive list of over 100 spots, ranging from popular tourist attractions to lesser-known local secrets.
• Easy Navigation: Locations are organized by area, simplifying the exploration process and enhancing your travel experience.
• Special Focus on Sakura: Recognizing the significance of cherry blossom season in Tokyo, the guide includes a dedicated section for Sakura viewing spots.

“Stella Lee’s 100 Tokyo Spots” is more than just a travel guide; it’s a gateway to experiencing Tokyo through the eyes of someone who has not only lived there but also holds a deep affection for the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning admirer of Tokyo, this guide promises to enhance your journey and uncover the true spirit of this magnificent city.

With Love, Stella Lee

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100 Hikes / Travel Guide: Eastern Oregon (100 Hikes, Oregon) Paperback – March 31, 2015

There is a newer edition of this item:.

• Part of series Oregon Guidebooks
• Print length 272 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Navillus Press
• Publication date March 31, 2015
• Dimensions 5.75 x 0.75 x 8.75 inches
• ISBN-10 1939312086
• ISBN-13 978-1939312082
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About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Navillus Press; 3rd edition (March 31, 2015)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 272 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1939312086
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1939312082
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 12 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.75 x 0.75 x 8.75 inches
• #1,797 in Pacific West United States Travel Books
• #2,689 in Hiking & Camping Excursion Guides (Books)
• #18,987 in Nature & Ecology (Books)

About the author

William l. sullivan.

The author of three novels and a dozen nonfiction books, Sullivan grew up in Salem, Oregon. He completed his B.A. degree in English at Cornell University under Alison Lurie, studied linguistics at Germany's Heidelberg University, and earned an M.A. in German at the University of Oregon. He reads in a dozen languages, plays the pipe organ, and enjoys backcountry ski expeditions.

Sullivan is known in the American West as the author who backpacked more than a thousand miles across Oregon's wilderness in 1985. His journal of that adventure, "Listening for Coyote," has since been chosen one of Oregon's "100 Books," the most significant books in state history.

In summer he writes at the log cabin that he and his wife Janell Sorensen built by hand in the wilds of Oregon's Coast Range, more than a mile from roads, electricity, and telephones. The rest of the year they live in Eugene, Oregon, where he volunteers to promote libraries and literature.

A list of Sullivan's books, speaking engagements, and favorite adventures is at www.oregonhiking.com .

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33 Best Travel Essentials You Should Always Pack

What our editors always travel with, and you should, too.

For some of us, an affordable carry-on is our travel essential. For others, it's nothing less than a Rimowa suitcase . Some of us never travel without a cashmere sweater . Personally, I swear by this Halfday Garment Duffel , but others swear by a classic weekender . We're exploring all options here.

Best Sweater for Travelling

Naadam cashmere sweater.

Travel Packing Hack

Halfday the garment duffel.

Best Packable Tote Bag

Tumi just in case tote.

Best Passport Cover

Smythson passport cover in panama.

Best Dopp Kit Upgrade

Lucchese dopp kit.

Best Suit to Fly In

J.crew kenmare unstructured suit jacket.

Best Travel Pants

Lululemon abc classic-fit pant.

Best Shoes for Travel

Sabah baba leather slip on.

Best Travel Wallet

Husbands paris black metal corners wallet.

Best Hanging Toiletry Bag

Away the hanging toiletry bag.

From post-flight, or in-flight, grooming must haves to luxury wallets that make you feel more put together walking through TSA, you can trust our expertise here. And here's a light warning. We will, only once, recommend that you still wear a suit while you travel. It's part of our DNA, sorry. Other than that, these are the 33 travel essentials that we swear by.

It sounds annoying to say a cashmere sweater is the perfect travel accessory, but it's so warm, soft, and lightweight, there's nothing that beats it. Plus, our favorite sweater from Naadam only cost $100.

I've already written about how great this bag is . A garment duffel isn't a new concept, but for $100, this version of it is life changing. Pack two suits or a few dresses, roll up the bag, then add everything else like normal. Nice clothes stay wrinkle free and everything packs more easily.

We all know the deal. It's a return flight, you have new clothes and souvenirs, or you just are packing a lot less diligently. That's where this Just In Case Tote comes in. It packs down to the size of a book and expands to be a sizable personal item.

A passport cover is tough to call an essential, but once you hit a certain level of frequent flyer, it absolutely is. This one in luxe leather from Smythson is the best you can buy.

One thing we really believe in is upgrading your dopp kit. That polyester one from Amazon won't make you happy, and it'll disintegrate in a few years. Lucchese makes some of the best travel bags on the market , and this pebble leather dopp kit is the best value on the website.

Yes, the men's magazine is still telling you to wear a suit on a flight. A relaxed-fit unstructured suit is a man's matching set. It's just as comfortable as your ugly PJ pants, getting dressed takes two seconds, and you look great no matter how jet lagged you are.

If you insist on doing stretchy pants, make sure you do the best stretchy pants on Earth .

The airport shoe situation is a funny one. There's a lot of ways to tackle the issue. Most people prefer sneakers. Loafers are a great shout. Cowboy boots —they're slip ons!—are my chaotic choice. The only rule is no exposed toes.

Truthfully, though, these Sabah slip ons are the only answer to "What's the best travel shoe?" Slip on, slip off. Wear them to the beach, or use them as a bring your own hotel slipper.

When you're an American exploring parts of the world you're unfamiliar with, be smart. A front pocket wallet will keep you from being on the losing end of tourist pickpocket schemes. This one from Husbands is my absolute favorite.

If you have an especially long self-care routine, you'll need something a bit more tailor-made. This hanging toiletry bag from Away is a great shout.

Cadence Flex System

As far as routines go, this Cadence system is a functional masterpiece. You can customize a set of containers for grooming products, bath products, and supplements. All the little hexagons click together for easy packing. It's some of the best travel design we've ever gotten our hands on.

Byredo Mojave Ghost Roll-On

Creating your own olfactory bubble is a life-changing travel hack, but spray-on cologne is a bit intense for the plane ride. Byredo makes nice roll-on fragrances to solve that problem.

F. Miller Eye Oil

That stale plane air is a nightmare for your skin. This eye oil firms and nourishes skin while still feeling natural. Keep it on hand to take care of any problem areas—around your eyes, lips, and cuticles. It's our best hack for looking good even after a long flight.

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

We're big proponents of noise-cancelling headphones for pretty much all things that require either a deep inner focus or a hard distance from the world outside. Bose's QuietComfort headphones silence the world (crying babies, crunching plane neighbors) around you.

Bombas Everyday Compression Socks

These socks will reduce any swelling or numbness after a long flight, or a short one for that matter. Compression socks are your new favorite travel companion. These have a daily-use approved 15-20mmHg pressure.

Patagonia Nano Puff Fitz Roy Trout Hoody

A packable Patagonia jacket is one of travel's biggest upgrades. It's super warm, and makes for an excellent extra layer—especially when you're not sure what you'll need. It packs into a little cube, which can double as a travel pillow.

Davek The Mini

Tiny and adorable, this will save you from some unexpected weather. The micro design tucks away perfectly into your suitcase.

Drake's Brown Birds of Paradise Print Wool Scarf

Even more versatile than a sweater is a lightweight scarf. Any scarf from Drake's is a good buy, but this printed one is especially fun. In the terminal, it's an accessory. In the lounge, it's a blanket. On the flight, it's a shawl, eye mask, emergency pillow, or a fucking tablecloth. If you buy one thing for travel, buy a good lightweight scarf.

Adidas Originals Stan Smith

Stan Smith's are another classic choice. Wear them with jeans, sweatpants, or a suit, and look fine in all instances.

NEW BALANCE 990v4 Sneakers

Sometimes you just need to get there, and these sneakers will do the trick. And when you do get there, go stretch your weary plane legs on a long walk without having to change shoes.

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Traveling From Sussex Gardens To Stansted Airport: A Comprehensive Guide

• Last updated May 16, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Are you planning a trip from Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport? We've got you covered with our comprehensive guide! Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, navigating the route from Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport can be a daunting task. In this guide, we'll provide you with all the information you need to make your journey stress-free and enjoyable. From transportation options to tips for avoiding traffic, we've got it all covered. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the process of getting from Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport.

What You'll Learn

Public transportation options from 100 sussex gardens to stansted airport, driving directions from 100 sussex gardens to stansted airport, taxi services from 100 sussex gardens to stansted airport, recommended routes and travel tips for 100 sussex gardens to stansted airport.

If you are staying at 100 Sussex Gardens and need to travel to Stansted Airport, there are several public transportation options available to you. Here's a detailed guide on how to get from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport using different modes of transport.

• Walk to the nearest bus stop, which is located just a short distance from 100 Sussex Gardens.
• Take the bus number 23 towards Liverpool Street Station.
• Get off at the Liverpool Street Bus Station.
• From here, you can take the National Express coach service to Stansted Airport.
• Look for the National Express ticket counter or machines at the bus station and purchase your ticket to Stansted Airport.
• Board the coach to Stansted Airport, and sit back and relax as you make your way to the airport.

London Underground:

• Walk to Paddington Station, which is approximately a 10-minute walk from 100 Sussex Gardens.
• Take the Circle or Hammersmith & City line from Paddington Station to Liverpool Street Station.
• Once at Liverpool Street Station, follow the signs to the Stansted Express.
• Purchase a ticket for the Stansted Express at the ticket counter or machines, and board the train.
• The Stansted Express is a direct train service that will take you directly to Stansted Airport.
• If you prefer a more convenient and direct option, you can also take a taxi from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport.
• You can either hail a taxi from the street or book one through a taxi app.
• Make sure to allow enough time for the journey, as traffic conditions can vary.

Private Airport Transfer:

• Another option is to book a private airport transfer service, which can be a convenient and stress-free option.
• You can pre-book a private transfer service online or through a travel agency.
• The driver will pick you up from 100 Sussex Gardens at the specified time and take you directly to Stansted Airport.

When planning your journey, consider the time of day, traffic conditions, and the amount of luggage you have. Allow enough time for any unexpected delays and factor in additional time for check-in and security procedures at the airport. It is always advisable to check travel updates and schedules to ensure a smooth journey.

Conquering the Fear: Navigating the Pros and Cons of Solo Travel

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If you are planning on driving from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport, here are the driving directions to help you navigate the route:

• Start by heading northwest on Sussex Gardens toward Edgware Road/A5.
• Continue straight onto Praed Street.
• Use the right lane to turn right onto Edgware Road/A5.
• Continue to follow A5.
• At Marble Arch, take the 2nd exit onto Park Lane/A4202.
• Continue to follow A4202.
• Use the left lane to stay on A4202.
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Park Street/A4202.
• Turn left onto North Audley Street/A4202 (signs for Hyde Park/A40).
• Turn left onto Grosvenor Square.
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Duke Street/A40.
• Continue to follow A40.
• At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the ramp to M1/M11/City (W)/Westminster/A41/A501.
• Merge onto Westway/A40.
• At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto the A3220 ramp to M4/M40/A4/Knightsbridge/White City/Chelsea/Baker St/Lancaster Gt.
• Merge onto West Cross Route/A3220.
• Use the 2nd from the left lane to take the A4 ramp.
• At Hogarth Roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Great West Road/A4.
• Merge onto M4 via the ramp to Heathrow Airport (Partial toll road - Entering the United Kingdom).
• Keep left at the fork to stay on M4 (signs for M25/M3/M23/M40/M1/M11).
• At junction 4B, Use the left lane to follow signs for M25/Uxbridge/A408/Oxford/M1/Watford/M40/M23/M3.
• Exit onto M25 toward M11/Cambridge/Harlow/Chelmsford (Toll road).
• At junction 27, Use the left 2 lanes to take the M11(N) exit to Cambridge (Toll road).
• Continue onto M11.
• At junction 8, Use the 2nd from the left lane to take the A120 exit to Stansted Airport/B1051/Birchanger.
• At the roundabout, take the 4th exit onto Thremhall Avenue/A120.
• At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Coopers End Road/A120.
• At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Terminal Road N (signs for Terminal 1/3/4/Stansted Airport).
• Continue straight onto Terminal Road S.
• Keep left to stay on Terminal Road S.
• Stansted Airport will be on your right.

It is important to note that the above directions are based on the most common route at the time of writing and may be subject to traffic conditions and road closures. It is always recommended to use GPS or navigation tools for real-time updates and to plan your journey accordingly. Safe travels!

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If you are planning a trip from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport, it is important to plan your transportation in advance to avoid any last-minute rush. While there are several options available, one of the most convenient and reliable ways to travel between these two locations is by hiring a taxi service.

Taxi services offer door-to-door convenience, ensuring that you reach the airport on time and without any hassle. Here are some key details about taxi services from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport that can help you plan your journey:

• Pre-Booking: It is recommended to pre-book a taxi service in advance to ensure availability and to avoid any waiting time. You can usually do this online or by calling the taxi company directly.
• Journey Duration: The journey from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport can take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It is advisable to take into account the time of day and plan your pickup accordingly, especially during peak travel hours.
• Taxi Fare: The taxi fare for this route may vary depending on the taxi company, vehicle type, and any additional services requested. It is always a good idea to ask for a quote before booking your taxi to avoid any surprises.
• Luggage Space: Make sure to inform the taxi company about the amount of luggage you will be carrying so they can provide a suitable vehicle. This will ensure that you have enough space to comfortably accommodate your belongings during the journey.
• Flight Details: Share your flight details, including the airline and the departure time, with the taxi company. This will help them plan the journey accordingly, considering any possible delays or traffic conditions.
• Meet and Greet Service: Some taxi services provide a meet and greet service where the driver will wait for you in the arrivals hall with a signboard displaying your name. This can be particularly beneficial if you are unfamiliar with the airport or want a hassle-free pickup.
• Payment Options: Most taxi services offer multiple payment options, including cash, credit/debit cards, and digital payment methods. It is advisable to confirm the payment options available before commencing your journey to ensure a smooth and convenient process.
• Additional Services: Some taxi services provide additional amenities such as child seats or wheelchair accessibility. If you require any such services, make sure to inform the taxi company during the booking process.

By following these instructions and planning your taxi journey in advance, you can ensure a stress-free and comfortable travel experience from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport. Remember to book your taxi early, communicate your requirements clearly, and double-check the details to avoid any last-minute inconveniences. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your journey to the airport!

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If you are staying at or near 100 Sussex Gardens and need to travel to Stansted Airport, there are several options available to you. In this guide, we will outline the best routes and provide useful travel tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Public transportation:

• Tube and train: Start your journey by taking the Circle or District Line from Paddington Station to Liverpool Street Station. From there, board a Stansted Express train to the airport. The total travel time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Make sure to check the train schedules in advance, as they may vary depending on the time of day.
• Bus: Another option is to take the National Express A6 bus from Paddington Station to Stansted Airport. The journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. This might be a more cost-effective option compared to the train.
• Taxi or private transfer: If you prefer a more convenient and private transportation option, you can take a taxi or book a private transfer service. This way, you can avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation with your luggage. Keep in mind that this option can be more expensive than public transportation, and it is recommended to book your taxi or transfer in advance to ensure availability.
• Driving: If you have access to a car or prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to Stansted Airport. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. There are several car rental companies located near 100 Sussex Gardens, so you can easily pick up a car and drop it off at the airport upon arrival.

Travel tips:

• Plan your journey in advance: Check the train or bus schedules and choose the option that best suits your needs. Keep in mind that public transportation may be less frequent during weekends or late at night, so plan accordingly.
• Allow extra time for unforeseen delays: Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact your travel time. It is always better to arrive at the airport early and have some spare time than to rush and risk missing your flight.
• Consider luggage constraints: If you have a large amount of luggage, be aware of the restrictions and space available on public transportation. Taxis or private transfers may be more suitable for carrying bulky or numerous bags.
• Stay updated: Check for any travel updates or disruptions on the day of your journey. Transportation services can sometimes be affected by unforeseen events, such as strikes or engineering works.

By following these recommended routes and travel tips, you can easily travel from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport with minimal stress and hassle. Safe travels!

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Frequently asked questions.

There are several ways to travel from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service, use public transportation such as the train or bus, or drive your own car and park it at the airport.

The travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation and the traffic conditions. By taxi or ride-sharing service, it can take around 1-1.5 hours. By train, it can take approximately 1 hour. By bus, it can take 1.5-2 hours. If you are driving your own car, it can take around 1-1.5 hours, but it may be longer if there is heavy traffic.

The cost of traveling from 100 Sussex Gardens to Stansted Airport can vary depending on the mode of transportation. A taxi or ride-sharing service can cost around £70-£100. The train fare can range from £15-£30. The bus fare can be around £10-£20. If you are driving your own car, you will have to consider the cost of fuel and parking fees at the airport.

Yes, there are direct transportation options available. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the airport without any transfers. You can also take a train directly from Paddington Station, which is close to 100 Sussex Gardens, to Stansted Airport. However, if you choose to take a bus, there may be transfers or stops along the way. It is recommended to check the specific bus routes and schedules for the most convenient option.

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