America turns 250 in 2026, making it an unforgettable year to explore the United States! From iconic cities and historic landmarks to breathtaking national parks and coastal gems, the U.S. offers vacations for every type of traveler — solo adventurers, families, couples, and culture seekers alike. These destinations deliver the best of what America has to offer as it celebrates its semiquincentennial.
Highlights
- National parks and nature take center stage. From the East Coast to the West, America is a diverse landscape with gorgeous state parks, iconic national parks and great open spaces.
- Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday. Expect to find special events, parades and museum exhibits across the country — especially in historic cities like Philadelphia and Boston.
- Mix city and nature: Pair big cities with nearby national parks or scenic drives for the ultimate U.S. adventure.
Tips for Planning Your 2026 USA Vacation
- Book early for 2026 travel (especially summer and holiday weeks) — this is a big year for domestic trips.
- Celebrate America’s 250th by joining local parades, museum exhibits, national park events, and historic re-enactments in cities like Philadelphia.
1. Washington D.C.
America is turning 250 years old and D.C. will be the epicenter of the celebration. Expect over-the-top fireworks (and crowds!) for the Fourth of July.
- Best For: History lovers, families, culture seekers
- Don’t Miss: National Mall, the free Smithsonian museums, Capitol tours
- Eat Here: Old Ebbitt Grill, Founding Farmers
- Stay Here: Washington Marriott at Metro Center, Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown, Hyatt House Washington DC – The Wharf, Omni Shoreham Hotel
SheBuysTravel Tip: Visit Washington D.C. in early spring to see the city’s lovely cherry blossom trees in full bloom!
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Catch a ferry to this car-free island and be transported back in time. Catch a horse-drawn carriage ride to your hotel or rent bikes for a spin around the island.
- Best For: Couples, families, history buffs, slow-paced travelers
- Don’t Miss: Fort Mackinac, fudge shops, horse-drawn carriage tours
- Eat Here: The Grand Hotel Dining Room, Woods Restaurant
- Stay Here: The Grand Hotel for a splurge, or Island House Hotel, Lake View Hotel, Mission Point Resort, Pine Cottage Bed & Breakfast
SheBuysTravel Tip: Want a closer look at the Mackinac Bridge? Book a Mighty Mac departure ticket (it’s the same price as a normal ticket!) from Shepler’s Ferry and take a ride under the bridge on your way to the island. It makes for an amazing photo opportunity!
3. Sandusky/Lake Erie Shore, Ohio
This is the spot for people who don’t want to choose between a laid-back beach vacation and a high-thrill adventure. Sandusky, Ohio, is home to Cedar Point (“Roller Coaster Capital of the World”), Kalahari Resorts Indoor Waterpark and Castaway Bay Indoor Waterpark. Beyond these wet and wild adventures, you can wander out to the shores of Lake Erie for some additional fun in the sun. Maybe even check a few lighthouses off your list.
- Best For: Families, thrill seekers
- Don’t Miss: Cedar Point amusement park, Put-In-Bay day trips
- Eat Here: The Boathouse Bar & Grill, Frosty Bar
- Stay Here: Castaway Bay, Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Port Clinton-Catawba Island
4. Orlando, Florida
Yes, Orlando is home to four major theme parks —
- Best For: Families, theme park enthusiasts
- Don’t Miss:
Walt Disney World , Universal Studios - Eat Here: The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, The Ravenous Pig
- Stay Here: Loews Royal Pacific Resort, JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, Hilton Orlando, Wyndham (Garden) Lake Buena Vista, Caribe Royale All-Suite Hotel in Orlando
5. New York City, New York
NYC is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that caters to everyone.
- Best For: Solo travelers, couples, culture seekers
- Don’t Miss: Statue of Liberty, Broadway, Central Park
- Eat Here: Katz’s Delicatessen, Carmine’s and Russ & Daughters for an authentic NYC bagel.
- Stay Here: Margaritaville Resort Times Square, The Westin New York at Times Square, The Roxy Hotel, Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC
SheBuysTravel Tip: NYC can be VERY expensive. If you’re bringing the kids, check out these free things to do in every borough.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Museums, architecture and pizza — Chicago has all of the makings of an eventful and delicious vacation destination!
- Best For: City explorers, foodies, culture lovers
- Don’t Miss: Millennium Park, the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for a bird’s eye view of the city, a Chicago River tour of the city’s famous architecture, and the world-class museums
- Eat Here: Pizzeria Uno for deep-dish pizza, The Weiner Circle for hot dogs
- Stay Here: : InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile, Fairmont Chicago, Loews Chicago Hotel, Omni Chicago Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
SheBuysTravel Tip: Summer is the best time for a family vacation in Chicago with free neighborhood festivals, lakefront entertainment and glorious warm, sunny weather.
7. Las Vegas, Nevada
Easily one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Las Vegas is filled with casinos, shopping, fine dining and never-ending entertainment at every corner. It’s a destination that draws in couples and groups of friends looking for adventure, but it’s also surprisingly family friendly too!
- Best For: Adults, nightlife lovers, adventure seekers
- Don’t Miss: The Strip, Cirque du Soleil, Red Rock Canyon
- Eat Here: Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, Lotus of Siam
- Stay Here: Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Bellagio, Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas
SheBuysTravel Tip: Head out on a Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon National Park excursion tour from the city. You can also experience the breathtaking sights of Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park on a day trip from Las Vegas.
8. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
With easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a Gatlinburg vacation brings outdoor adventures together with kid-friendly attractions and small town fun like Hillbilly Mini Golf. Plenty of adventures await in the beloved mountain town!
- Best For: Nature lovers, families, couples
- Don’t Miss: Dollywood, Ober Gatlinburg
- Eat Here: The Peddler Steakhouse, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp
- Stay Here: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg, River Edge Inn
SheBuysTravel Tip: Check out these 18 other places to visit in Tennessee.
9. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, the oldest city in Georgia, is a charming mix of southern hospitality, Spanish moss and haunted stories.
- Best For: Couples, history buffs, solo travelers
- Don’t Miss: Forsyth Park, River Street, Ghosts and Graveyards tour
- Eat Here: The Fitzroy, Alligator Soul, Circa 1875 and Back in the Day Bakery.
- Stay Here: Gastonian, The Drayton Hotel, The Marshall House
10. Los Angeles, California
From Hollywood glamour to beachside adventures, LA is the world’s entertainment capital, the place to casually drive by celebrities’ homes, take a tour of Warner Bros Studios and get your photo taken in front of the famous Hollywood sign.
- Best For: Solo travelers, families, culture seekers, beach lovers
- Don’t Miss: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, Getty Center
- Eat Here: In-N-Out Burger (classic West Coast fast food), Bestia (Italian in the Arts District), Nobu Malibu (oceanfront fine dining)
- Stay Here: Beverly Wilshire, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
11. Sedona, Arizona
Known for its colorful, red rock formations, Sedona boasts more than 400 miles of trails. Looking for something a little more laid back? Sit back and relax at one of the area wineries, casually explore one of the local fine art galleries or book a nighttime UFO and stargazing tour.
- Best For: Avid hikers, couples, nature lovers, art enthusiasts
- Don’t Miss: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock Trail, Sedona Vortex sites, stargazing or UFO tours
- Eat Here: The Hudson (modern American cuisine with views), Elote Café (Southwestern flavors), Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill
- Stay Here: Enchantment Resort, L’Auberge de Sedona
12. Boston, Massachusetts
Walk the Freedom Trail in honor of the revolutionaries who founded America and enjoy a mix of history, sports, and seafood.
- Best For: History buffs, foodies, culture seekers
- Don’t Miss: Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, Boston Tea Party Ships
- Eat Here: Union Oyster House, Mike’s Pastry
- Stay Here: Omni Parker House, The Newbury Boston, Boston Park Plaza
12. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Historic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, perfect for the 250th celebrations.
- Best For: History lovers, families, city explorers
- Don’t Miss: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Philly murals
- Eat Here: Pat’s King of Steaks, Reading Terminal Market
- Stay Here: Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, The Logan Philadelphia
13. San Francisco, California
Iconic hills, bridges, and eclectic neighborhoods for all types of travelers.
- Best For: Couples, solo travelers, city lovers
- Don’t Miss: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf
- Eat Here: Tartine Bakery, Boudin Bakery
- Stay Here: Hyatt Regency San Francisco Embarcadero Hotel, The Jay Hotel
14. Nashville, Tennessee
Music City magic with a lively nightlife and southern charm.
- Best For: Music lovers, couples, nightlife seekers
- Don’t Miss: Country Music Hall of Fame, Broadway honky-tonks, the Bluebird Cafe
- Eat Here: Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Biscuit Love
- Stay Here: Union Station Hotel, Gaylord Opryland
15. Grand Canyon, Arizona
A bucket-list natural wonder with hiking, rafting, and sunrise views. This is a place you must see with your own eyes. No photo can do it justice.
- Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers
- Don’t Miss: South Rim viewpoints, Bright Angel Trail, helicopter tours
- Eat Here: El Tovar Dining Room, Arizona Room
- Stay Here: Yavapai Lodge, Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
SheBuysTravel Tip: Check out our full list of family-friendly hotels close to the Grand Canyon.
16. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
America’s first national park offers geysers, wildlife and epic landscapes.
- Best For: Families, photographers, adventure seekers
- Don’t Miss: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake
- Eat Here: Yellowstone Lodge Dining Room, Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining
- Stay Here: Roosevelt Lodge Cabins, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins, Old Faithful Inn
SheBuysTravel Tip: Book VERY early if you want to stay inside the park. Or save money by staying outside the park in Cody, Wyoming.
17. Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu blends iconic beaches, rich Hawaiian culture, and outdoor adventure, making it one of the most versatile island vacations in the U.S. From surfing the North Shore to exploring historic Pearl Harbor and enjoying Waikiki’s lively resort scene, Oahu offers something for every type of traveler.
- Best For: Families, couples, adventure seekers, culture lovers
- Don’t Miss: Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, North Shore surf beaches, Diamond Head hike
- Eat Here: Leonard’s Bakery (malasadas), Helena’s Hawaiian Food, Duke’s Waikiki
- Stay Here: Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club
18. Denver & Rocky Mountains, Colorado
City culture meets mountain adventure in one versatile trip.
- Best For: Outdoor lovers, families, solo travelers
- Don’t Miss: Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Rocky Mountain National Park
- Eat Here: Mercantile Dining, Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
- Stay Here: Hilton Denver City Center
19. Miami, Florida
Vibrant nightlife, beaches and Latin culture make this a hot getaway.
- Best For: Couples, party-goers, beach lovers
- Don’t Miss: South Beach, Art Deco District, Little Havana
- Eat Here: Joe’s Stone Crab, Yardbird
- Stay Here: Hilton Cabana Miami Beach, Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club
SheBuysTravel Tip: Check out our full list of places to stay in Miami.
20. Seattle, Washington
Coffee culture, tech energy and scenic waterfronts define this Pacific Northwest city.
- Best For: Solo travelers, city explorers, foodies
- Don’t Miss: Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Chihuly Garden
- Eat Here: Canlis, The Pink Door
- Stay Here: The Maxwell Hotel, Fairmont Olympic Hotel
21. San Diego, California
Nearly perfect weather makes San Diego a year-round place to spend time at the beach, experience family attractions and indulge in outdoor fun.
- Best For: Families, beach lovers, couples
- Don’t Miss: Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, La Jolla Cove
- Eat Here: Phil’s BBQ, George’s at the Cove
- Stay Here: Hotel del Coronado, Bahia Resort Hotel
SheBuysTravel Tip: Here’s our full list of great San Diego family resorts.
22. New Orleans, Louisiana
Culture, music and food-filled streets for a uniquely American experience.
- Best For: Couples, solo travelers, music lovers
- Don’t Miss: French Quarter, Jazz clubs, Mardi Gras celebrations
- Eat Here: Café du Monde, Commander’s Palace
- Stay Here: Holiday Inn French Quarter – Chateau LeMoyne, Hotel Monteleone
23. Portland, Oregon
Laid-back vibe with craft beer, food carts, and outdoor adventures.
- Best For: Solo travelers, foodies, outdoor lovers
- Don’t Miss: Powell’s City of Books, Japanese Garden, Columbia River Gorge
- Eat Here: Voodoo Doughnut, Pok Pok
- Stay Here: Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland, The Nines
24. Austin, Texas
Live music, BBQ, and outdoor fun in the heart of Texas.
- Best For: Music lovers, foodies, festival-goers
- Don’t Miss: Live music on Sixth Street, Barton Springs Pool
- Eat Here: Franklin Barbecue, Uchi
- Stay Here: Embassy Suites by Hilton Austin Downtown South Congress
SheBuysTravel Tip: Head to Austin and the Texas Hill Country in the early spring to see the bluebonnets blossom!
25. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Scenic mountain lake with year-round outdoor adventures.
- Best For: Couples, families, adventure seekers
- Don’t Miss: Emerald Bay, skiing or snowboarding, hiking trails
- Eat Here: Edgewood Tahoe, The Lake House
- Stay Here: Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe, Northstar Mountain Resort
26. Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor, Maine
Rocky coastlines, hiking trails and picturesque small towns.
- Eat Here: Jordan Pond House, Thirsty Whale Tavern
- Best For: Nature lovers, solo travelers, couples
- Don’t Miss: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, The Park Loop Road
- Stay Here: Balance Rock Inn, Bar Harbor Inn
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