15 Best Activities to Do While Traveling to the United States

15 Best Activities to Do While Traveling to the United States, from national parks to iconic cities. Explore the top experiences for your next trip!

Traveling to the United States offers an endless array of experiences, from natural wonders to vibrant city life. If you're planning a trip, here are the 15 best activities in the United States that you shouldn’t miss.

Best Activities to Do While Traveling to the United States

Table Of Content

• Best Activities to Do While Traveling to the United States
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1. Explore National Parks

The U.S. is home to some of the world’s most stunning national parks, including:

• Yellowstone (Wyoming) – Geysers, hot springs, and wildlife
• Grand Canyon (Arizona) – Jaw-dropping vistas and hiking trails
• Yosemite (California) – Waterfalls, giant sequoias, and rock climbing
• Zion (Utah) – Red cliffs and thrilling canyon hikes

Pro Tip: Get an America the Beautiful Pass for access to all national parks for one year.

2. Experience New York City’s Iconic Landmarks

Immerse yourself in the energy of New York City by visiting Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. Don’t miss a Broadway show or a stroll through the High Line.

No trip to the U.S. is complete without visiting New York City. Must-see attractions include:

• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
• Times Square
• Central Park
• Broadway Shows

3. Road Trip Along Route 66

Embark on a classic American road trip along Route 66, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles. Along the way, explore quirky roadside attractions, historic towns, and stunning landscapes.

The "Mother Road" stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a nostalgic journey through small towns, quirky roadside attractions, and classic American diners.

4. Visit Las Vegas for Entertainment & Nightlife

Las Vegas is the ultimate destination for:

• World-class casinos & resorts
• Spectacular shows (Cirque du Soleil, concerts)
• Fine dining & nightclubs
• Nearby attractions (Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam)

5. Discover the Beaches of Hawaii

Hawaii offers some of the world’s best surfing spots. Whether you're a beginner or experienced surfer, catch a wave on Oahu's North Shore or enjoy the beaches of Maui and Kauai.

Hawaii’s islands offer paradise-like beaches, including:

• Waikiki Beach (Oahu)
• Napali Coast (Kauai)
• Black Sand Beach (Big Island)
• Snorkeling in Molokini Crater (Maui)

6. Tour Washington, D.C.’s Historic Monuments & Museums

Explore American history by visiting the monuments, memorials, and museums along the National Mall. Highlights include the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian museums, and the U.S. Capitol.

The U.S. capital is packed with free Smithsonian museums, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol.

7. Attend a Major Sports Event

The U.S. is famous for its sports culture. Catch a:

• NFL football game
• NBA basketball game
• MLB baseball game
• NASCAR race

8. Enjoy Live Music in Nashville or New Orleans

• Nashville, TN – The heart of country music (visit the Grand Ole Opry)
• New Orleans, LA – Jazz clubs in the French Quarter and Mardi Gras festivities

Head to New Orleans to experience vibrant live jazz, Creole cuisine, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street. Time your visit with Mardi Gras for an unforgettable cultural celebration.

9. Go Wine Tasting in Napa Valley, California

Indulge in world-class wine tours, gourmet dining, and scenic vineyard views in this premier wine region.

Indulge in California’s wine country with a tour of Napa Valley’s vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings, gourmet cuisine, and beautiful vineyard landscapes.

10. Ski or Hike in the Rocky Mountains

Destinations like Aspen, Vail, and Banff (Canada nearby) offer winter skiing and summer hiking.

America’s first national park, Yellowstone offers stunning geysers, wildlife, and hiking trails. Don’t miss Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and a chance to spot bison and bears.

Hit the slopes in Colorado’s world-class ski resorts like Aspen, Vail, or Breckenridge. Winter sports enthusiasts will love the powdery snow and mountain scenery.

11. Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles

Explore Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Pier, and Universal Studios in LA.

12. Visit the Theme Parks of Orlando, Florida

Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, Orlando is perfect for families.

Unwind in the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys. Drive the scenic Overseas Highway, snorkel in coral reefs, and enjoy fresh seafood with an ocean view.

13. Explore the Cultural Melting Pot of San Francisco

Highlights include:

• Golden Gate Bridge
• Alcatraz Island
• Fisherman’s Wharf & Pier 39
• Cable car rides

14. Try Authentic American BBQ & Regional Cuisine

• Texas BBQ (brisket)
• Southern soul food (fried chicken, grits)
• Chicago deep-dish pizza
• Maine lobster rolls

15. Stargaze in Dark Sky Parks

For astronomy lovers, visit:

• Bryce Canyon (Utah)
• Death Valley (California)
• Cherry Springs (Pennsylvania)

Final Thoughts

Traveling across the United States is an opportunity to experience a mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and adventures. Whether you’re drawn to urban excitement, natural wonders, or cultural heritage, these 15 activities provide an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most dynamic countries.

That was our 15 Best Activities to Do While Traveling to the United States.

Where will your U.S. adventure begin?