Hello, fellow travelers and adventurers! Although I still have quite a few cities to venture to still, I’ve curated a list of my favorite to explore an eclectic mix of cities that have left an indelible mark on my heart. From historic gems to natural wonders, we’re about to embark on an unforgettable adventure through some of America’s most captivating destinations.

1. Charleston, South Carolina Our journey begins in the charming city of Charleston, where cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture transport you back in time. Stroll along the waterfront, savor Lowcountry cuisine, and soak in the city’s rich history. Don’t forget to visit the historic plantations for a glimpse into the Old South.

Things to do in Charleston:

• Dolphin Cruise on the Charleston Harbor
• Boone Hall Plantation
• Horse-drawn carriage sightseeing tour of historic downtown
• Folly Beach and Morris Island Lighthouse
• Middleton Place, the country’s oldest landscaped gardens
• Wineries near Wadmalaw Island
• Angel Oak Tree

2. Denver, Colorado Next up, we head west to the Mile High City, Denver, where urban sophistication meets breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re hiking in the Rocky Mountains, exploring the vibrant RiNo neighborhood’s art scene, or sipping craft beer at local breweries, Denver has something for every traveler.

Things to do in Denver:

• Rocky Mountain National Park
• Hot Air balloon over the Rocky Mountains
• Red Rock Amphitheatre
• Coors Fields for a baseball game
• Casa Bonita – Mexican food and a show
• White water rafting
• Day trip to Breckenridge for winter sports like skiing and snow boarding
• Garden of the Gods hike

3. Boston, Massachusetts Venturing to the East Coast, we arrive in Boston, a city steeped in American history. Walk the Freedom Trail, visit historic sites like the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, and indulge in fresh seafood at the bustling Quincy Market. Boston’s rich cultural heritage is sure to leave you inspired.

Things to do in Boston:

• Freedom Trail – takes at least a half day and you see 17 historical sights
• Whale watching from the Boston Harbor
• Rex Sox game at Fenway Stadium
• Quincy Market, amazing lobster rolls
• Boston Common, go on a swan boat ride
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, where the world’s largest art heist happened
• Day trips to Nantucket, Niagara Falls, Martha’s Vineyard, or Salem
• Duck Boat sightseeing
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

4. Scottsdale, Arizona From history to the desert oasis of Scottsdale, Arizona, where luxury and relaxation take center stage. Explore the stunning Sonoran Desert on hikes and ATV tours, unwind at world-class spas, and enjoy the vibrant arts scene. Don’t miss the dazzling sunsets against the backdrop of iconic cacti.

Things to do in Scocttsdale:

• UTV or ATV tours for sand dunes and Sonoran desert trails
• Oldtown Scottsdale
• Butterfly Wonderland
• Tom’s Thumb Trailhead
• Scottsdale Fashion Square
• Day trips to Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff, or Grand Canyon National Park
• Casinos and Spa Resorts – so many to choose from
• Desert Botanical Gardens

5. Chattanooga, Tennessee Our journey continues to the scenic city of Chattanooga, nestled between mountains and the Tennessee River. Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in activities like rock climbing, hiking in Lookout Mountain, and taking a leisurely cruise on the river. Chattanooga’s thriving arts and culinary scenes add to its appeal.

Things to do in Chattanooga:

• Rock City Gardens
• Ruby Falls
• Riverfront restaurants
• Tennessee Aquarium
• Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
• Hunter Museum of Art
• Chattanooga Choo Choo
• Hand Gliding off Lookout Mountain

6. Sedona, Arizona Prepare to be mesmerized by the otherworldly beauty of Sedona, Arizona. With its striking red rock formations and spiritual energy, this city is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking a connection with the earth’s energies. Take a Jeep tour or embark on a spiritual journey in Sedona’s vortex sites.

Things to do in Sedona:

• Day trip to The Grand Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon
• Horseback riding tours
• Off-roading Jeep or ATV tours
• Stargazing tour
• The Devil’s Bridge hike
• Glassblowing workshop
• Seven Canyons 4×4 tour

7. Corolla, North Carolina Our journey takes a coastal turn as we head to Corolla, North Carolina. Here, pristine beaches, wild horses, and charming seaside cottages await. Explore the Outer Banks, go horseback riding on the beach, and soak up the coastal serenity that Corolla has to offer.

Things to do in the Outer Banks:

• Drive a Jeep on the beach to set up camp
• Wild horses tour
• Corolla Kayak tour
• Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and National Seashore
• Hang Gliding over Jockey’s Ridge, the highest sand dune
• Surfing, paddle boarding, jet skis, etc
• Sail boat rides

8. West Palm Beach, Florida Heading to the Sunshine State, we arrive in West Palm Beach, where sun, sand, and culture collide. Lounge on the beautiful beaches, explore the vibrant downtown Clematis Street, and immerse yourself in the city’s cultural institutions and arts scene.

Things to do in Weest Palm Beach:

• Rosemary Square for shopping and restaurants
• The National Navy UDT-SEAL Museum
• The Breakers Hotel
• Water ski, kayak, jet ski, boating, parasailing, etc
• Manatee Lagoon
• Worth Avenue Clock Tower
• Grassy Waters Preserve
• Kravis Center for shows, musicals, and entertainment

9. Virginia Beach, Virginia Our coastal adventure continues to Virginia Beach, a city known for its long stretches of sandy shores. Surf, paddleboard, or simply relax on the beach. Virginia Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities and delicious seafood.

Things to do in Virginia Beach:

• Virginia Beach Boardwalk – 3 miles long
• Military Aviation Museum
• Sandbridge Beach
• Cape Henry Lighthouse
• Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
• Day trip to Busch Gardens in Willimasburg
• Day trip to Jamestown or Yorktown
• Hunt Club Farm
• Neptune’s Park – see the King Neptune Statue

10. Washington, D.C. We can’t complete our journey without a visit to the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Explore the iconic landmarks, including the White House, the Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian museums. Stroll through the National Mall and reflect on the nation’s history and culture.

Things to do in Washington D.C.:

• Tour the White House – this takes some pre-planning to get approved
• National Spy Museum
• All the Smithsonian Museums (Free)
• DC Monuments and Memorials Tour
• Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Reflection Pool, US Capitol Building
• Library of Congress
• Arlington National Cemetery & Changing of the Guards
• Day trip to Alexandria to see Mount Vernon

Bonus (Because I couldn’t cut it) Page, Arizona A gateway to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the United States. Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Antelope Canyon, take a boat tour on Lake Powell, and be mesmerized by the breathtaking Horseshoe Bend.

Things to do in Page/Lake Powell:

• Lower Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend
• Rent jet ski’s and boats on Lake Powell
• Hiking trails to see Native American ruins
• Stargazing
• Powell Museum
• Day trip to Zion National Park
• Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
• Rainbow Bridge National Monument

These eleven cities showcase the incredible diversity of experiences the United States has to offer. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, each destination has its unique charm. So, whether you’re drawn to the rich history of Boston, the natural beauty of Sedona, or the political heart of the nation in Washington, D.C., there’s a city waiting to inspire your next adventure. Stay tuned for more travel tales, and remember to keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep wandering.