As a frequent traveler and someone who often meets backpackers, I’ve noticed that recommending U.S. travel can be tricky. Unlike many other countries, the U.S. requires a different travel mindset compared to Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Its vast size and varied geography means that travelers often need to focus on specific regions rather than putting all their hopes in one city or trying to cover everything at once. Likewise, I think many Americans know of the destinations described below but are less familiar with how to package them. These sample itineraries favor nature but hey, that’s what I like and have done. While there plenty more worthwhile destinations in the U.S. besides those listed below, I hope this can serve as food for thought for anyone interested in exploring the US. Please drop a comment below to add color to this post.

The California Coast: Los Angeles to San Francisco (or vice versa)

The California coast is a classic for a reason. This itinerary is great for anyone seeking beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs, and exploration of California cities.

Highlights:

• Start by flying into San Diego or Los Angeles and renting a car. Spend a day or two exploring these cities if you’d like (I personally prefer San Diego), but don’t get stuck here—your real adventure lies along Highway 101.
• San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay are coastal gems are perfect for a day of exploring. Be sure to visit Montaña de Oro State Park and the quirky Madonna Inn.
• Big Sur is a stretch of rugged coastline that is stunning. Don’t miss Andrew Molera State Park for one of my favorite hikes along the bluff.
• Monterey is a charming coastal city renowned for its stunning scenery. Visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium or explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
• Santa Cruz is a cool surf town with a laid-back vibe. Check Surfline to see if the conditions are prime to catch the surf culture.
• End your trip in one of my favorite U.S. cities, San Francisco. Even though it has its issues (don’t leave anything in your car), it’s still a pretty city. Don’t miss the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, and a walk around Haight-Ashbury.
• If you love wine and have the time, check out Sonoma or Napa for world class wineries.

Northern California: San Francisco, Yosemite, Big Sur

If you love mountains and the sea, this itinerary adds the stunning Sierra Nevada mountain range and the California coastal cliffs to your adventures.

Highlights:

• Fly into San Francisco and explore the city for a day or two. I’d recommend saving your exploration for the end of the trip when you’re tired from outdoor exploration and better appreciate the creature comforts of the city.
• Drive to Yosemite National Park, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike among giant sequoias, waterfalls, and granite cliffs. Exploring Tahoe Lake is a beautiful alternative.
• Depending on where you choose to see the mountains, stop at Big Sur or the Sonoma Coast for gorgeous costal views on your way back.
• Head back to San Francisco for you flight out.

Southern California: The Sierras, Death Valley, Joshua Tree

Similar to the Northern California itinerary, this Southern California itinerary offers a unique mix of mountains and the coast but adds desert landscapes to the mix.

Highlights:

• Fly into Los Angeles or San Diego and rent a car. Explore these cities for a couple days.
• Head to Alabama Hills near Mount Whitney, where you can camp and enjoy surreal red rock landscapes with the Sierra Nevada as a backdrop.
• Explore Death Valley National Park, but plan your visit outside the summer months for a more enjoyable experience.
• Continue to Joshua Tree National Park, where you can camp, hike, and experience desert oases.
• Finish your trip back in Los Angeles or San Diego for some urban relaxation.

Utah: The Big Five

Utah is home to five incredible national parks that are relatively close to each other. You can fulfill all your red rock dreams with this itinerary.

Highlights:

• Start by flying into Salt Lake City or Las Vegas. Rent a car and explore:
  • Arches National Park: Walk under stunning natural rock arches, and stargaze at night.
  • Zion National Park: Hike the Narrows and tackle Angel’s Landing if you’re up for a challenge.
  • Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands: Each park offers its own unique landscapes and adventures.
• If you have extra time, add a detour to the Grand Canyon for the ultimate desert experience.
• Try to make this experience a loop for a convenient return to either Salt Lake City or Las Vegas.

Washington: Seattle, Cascades, Rainier, Olympic

Washington is an underrated gem with a mix of vibrant city life and incredible nature.

Highlights:

• Fly into Seattle, a beautiful city on the water. The charm of Pike Place Market and waterfront views make it a favorite.
• Visit the North Cascades for jaw-dropping mountain scenery.
• Explore Mount Rainier, an active volcano and the most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous United States.
• Lastly, visit Olympic National Park, offering a unique ecosystem of rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and temperate rainforests.

The Colorado Rockies

For a mountain-focused adventure, the Colorado Rockies are hard to beat. There’s so many trails near Denver, just hop on AllTrails or read some blogs to find some that suit your desires.

Highlights:

• Fly into Denver and enjoy the city’s breweries, food, and culture. If you’re there during March through September, consider checking out a Rockies baseball game.
• Visit Rocky Mountain National Park for accessible hiking and wildlife.
• Explore the Maroon Bells near Aspen, one of the most photographed spots in Colorado.
• If you want a quieter experience, head to the San Juan National Forest in the southwestern part of the state.
• Relax at a hot spring after a long day hiking.
• Take a day trip to Boulder to see another cool city and visit the Flatirons, a series of iconic, flat-topped rock formations.

Northern Rockies: Grand Teton, Yellowstone

The Northern Rockies offer dramatic landscapes, iconic national parks, and big game sightings.

Highlights:

• Fly into Jackson, Wyoming, or Salt Lake City, Utah if it’s cheaper.
• Explore Grand Teton National Park, known for its jagged peaks and pristine lakes. Grand Teton offers experiences for all kinds of nature enthusiasts. Take a peaceful walk around Lake Leigh or set out on a weeklong backpacking trip. Grand Teton is a top three national park for me in the U.S.
• Jackson is a cool town to enjoy a beer and warm food after a long day outdoors.
• Continue to Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, famous for geothermal features like Old Faithful and abundant wildlife. Yellowstone is very friendly family, allowing easy access to many of the attractions. However, if you want a more rugged experience, I’d pursue that in the Tetons or further into the Rockies.

Florida: Beaches & Everglades

Florida combines sunny beaches with unique wetlands experiences.

Highlights:

• Fly into Tampa and enjoy the city’s vibrant scene.
• Relax in a nearby beach town for a quieter beach experience compared to Tampa. 
• Explore the wetlands of the Everglades by airboat ride, kayaking through mangrove tunnels, and seeing a gator show where they stick their head in the gator’s mouth. If they don’t stick their head in the mouth ask for your money back.

The East Coast: New York, Boston, DC, Miami

For city-centric travelers, the East Coast offers iconic urban experiences with some beach time.

Highlights:

• Start in New York City, with its endless attractions. Choose those best suited for your interest, but make sure to see the Statue of Liberty and eat pizza.
• Take a short train ride to Boston, known for its historic charm and unique architecture. Also, Matt Damon is from near there.
• Head south to Washington, DC, to tour monuments, museums, and my favorite, take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building.
• End in Miami for a mix of nightlife and beach time.

Final Thoughts

The United States is vast, and this list barely scratches the surface. By focusing on specific regions, you can tailor your trip to your interests, whether that’s exploring nature, experiencing city life, or a mix of both. The destinations outlined here provide a starting points for an unforgettable journey across the U.S.