Getaways Close To Home
Planning a vacation doesn’t always mean pulling out your passport or Googling “how to survive a red-eye flight.” Sometimes, the best getaways are right in your backyard. Americans love diving into the quirky, charming, and delightfully relaxing spots within their own country. So, let’s explore 20 states where domestic vacations are a favorite escape.
1. California
California's diverse terrain is a magnet for every kind of vacationer. The state’s 800+ miles of coastline give you an excuse to relax by the beach, while its cities like LA and San Francisco pulse with cultural vibrancy. Not to mention, spots like Disneyland keep families returning year after year.
2. Florida
Florida is an all-ages playground stacked with natural springs, art deco cities, and a culture cocktail of Cuban, Caribbean, and Southern vibes. Everglades tours offer airboats and actual gator sightings, and if you haven't eaten a Publix sub on the beach, you're doing vacation wrong.
Denys Kostyuchenko on Unsplash
3. New York
New York is much more than just Manhattan. For an unforgettable experience, explore the Finger Lakes region, with its serene beauty and wine trails. Or, wander the Catskill Mountains for a dose of nature. While NYC dazzles, the Empire State’s charm often lies in its quieter corners.
The original uploader was Daniel Case at English Wikipedia. on Wikimedia
4. Hawaii
Americans love Hawaii because it feels like an international trip without a passport. Each island offers a different experience—Oahu delivers city life and beaches, Maui blends luxury and nature, the Big Island shows off active volcanoes, and Kauai keeps things quiet and green.
5. Nevada
Las Vegas alone could justify Nevada’s spot on this list, but the state isn’t just about neon lights and slot machines. Tourists flood in for world-class shows. Just outside the city, Red Rock Canyon offers hiking, climbing, and desert views that surprise most first-timers.
6. Texas
Think Texas is just vast plains? Think again. From the wild beauty of Big Bend National Park to the vibrant music scene in Austin, there’s so much to see. Don't forget about the Hill Country, which offers rolling hills and wildflower views each spring.
7. Tennessee
Beyond the neon lights of Nashville, Tennessee features numerous experiences. The Great Smoky Mountains are a top destination for outdoor lovers, with scenic hikes and abundant wildlife. Moreover, Tennessee’s beauty comes alive in the fall, when the leaves turn shades of orange and red.
(WT-en) Benjiho at English Wikivoyage on Wikimedia
8. Utah
Utah’s five national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—each offer distinct scenes, from towering cliffs to delicate rock arches. But the real gem? The quiet, lesser-visited areas like Goblin Valley, where you’ll encounter otherworldly rock formations.
9. Colorado
With its Rocky Mountains and outdoor recreation, Colorado draws adventure seekers year-round. Ski in the winter, and in summer, explore the state’s wildflower-filled meadows and extensive hiking trails. Plus, Denver’s art scene and food culture provide an urban escape after outdoor adventures.
10. Arizona
Arizona’s Grand Canyon is known worldwide, but the state’s smaller parks are equally impressive. Monument Valley’s sandstone buttes offer a cinematic view of the American Southwest. Additionally, Sedona’s red rock formations are perfect for stargazing.
11. South Carolina
South Carolina's coast has a mix of historic charm and beach relaxation. Visit Charleston, where cobblestone streets and antebellum homes evoke a time gone by. Or head to Hilton Head for pristine beaches and excellent golf courses.
12. North Carolina
This state pulls in vacationers with its two-for-one deal—mountains in the west, beaches in the east. The Outer Banks stretch across the Atlantic with lighthouses and beach towns ideal for family getaways. On the other side, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer cabins and scenic drives that feel designed for road trips.
13. Georgia
Georgia is a state that blends history and natural beauty seamlessly. Explore Savannah's historic district with its moss-draped oaks, or take a boat ride through the Cumberland Island National Seashore, which is home to wild horses and beaches.
14. Alaska
Alaska is the U.S.'s final frontier, offering wilderness like no other. Visit Denali National Park to catch a glimpse of North America’s highest peak, and cruise along the Kenai Peninsula, where you’ll see glaciers calving into the sea. Alaska is a place where untamed nature is at its best.
Denali National Park and Preserve on Wikimedia
15. Oregon
Americans head to Oregon for nature that refuses to pick a lane. The coast delivers rocky cliffs, tide pools, and lighthouses without the tourist traps. Portland leans into its weirdness but backs it up with killer coffee and indie everything.
16. Washington
This state stays booked with vacationers who want forests, ferries, and just enough city buzz. Seattle grabs attention with Pike Place Market. Mount Rainier draws hikers like a magnet, and the North Cascades gives you escapes without massive crowds.
17. Louisiana
Louisiana’s cultural depth is second to none. Experience the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans with its vibrant French Quarter. But venture beyond to discover the bayous and swamps—where you can take a guided swamp tour to spot alligators and learn about the state’s unique ecosystem.
18. Kentucky
Home to horse racing, bourbon, and stunning natural parks, Kentucky is often overlooked. Explore the hills of the Bluegrass region, or take a tour of the Bourbon Trail. The state’s outdoor spaces, like Red River Gorge, also offer unparalleled hiking and rock climbing opportunities.
Jarek Tuszyński (user:Jarekt) on Wikimedia
19. Michigan
This state is shaped like a mitten, and vacationers treat it as if it were a comfort item. Summer means lake obsession and pretending freshwater counts as salt-free oceanfront. Locals point at their palms to show you directions, and honestly, that's part of the charm.
Seney Natural History Association on Wikimedia
20. Missouri
Missouri may be known for its music scene in Branson, but it’s also home to incredible parks and historical sites. Explore the Ozarks, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking. Don't forget to visit the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, a symbol of American westward expansion.
