As one of the largest countries in the world, the United States offers thousands of marvelous and diverse things to do in each state. If you are planning to embark on a cross-country trip or if there are several states you wish to visit, it’s best to go on your trip armed with a US travel bucket list. In this post, we’ll give you a few ideas on what you should definitely experience in this country.
Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California
Among the many other fabulous things you should do in San Francisco (like eating fresh crab at Fisherman’s Wharf and riding a cable car), walking, biking, rollerblading, or jogging across the Golden Gate Bridge should be at the top of your list. When this world-famous bridge was first built in 1937, it was a modern wonder and the longest suspension bridge in the world. In addition to a camera, be sure to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes since the bridge is 1.7 miles in length.
Pay Homage to Hipsters in Portland, Oregon
You don’t have to be a Portlandia fan to have a soft spot for Portland. Anyone who enjoys a craft brew, cold brew, or a full-blown commitment to all things organic and eco-friendly will love the largest city in Oregon. Not only is it a cultural mecca, but it also seems to have a little (or a lot) of everything — including tons of parks, nature trails, and rivers for the outdoorsy folk, and music, theater, and art for the artsy types. So put on your Doc Martens, grab a cold brew, and live out your dream in this hipster utopia.
Eat Lobster in Bar Harbor, Maine
There are plenty of places on the East Coast and West Coast to eat amazing fresh seafood, but no place in the country seems to have lobster quite like Bar Harbor. You’ll have no trouble finding a first-rate seafood joint in Bar Harbor, but the fan favorite seems to be Bar Harbor Lobster Bakes. So after a hike through Acadia National Park or a stroll along Sand Beach, grab a bib and some butter and prepare yourself for the best lobster of your life.
Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans
If there’s one thing New Orleans knows how to do, it’s party, as evidenced by the annual Mardi Gras carnival filled with flashy costumes, festive parades, and plenty of opportunities to dance. Although Mardi Gras is a two-week affair, there is no need to spend the entire fortnight participating in the festivities. Go for a couple of days or go for the whole two weeks … it’s up to you! While you are there, it’s definitely worth checking out the sites and engaging in some non-Mardi Gras activities like going to the theater and enjoying some Louisiana Creole cuisine.
Have a Picnic in Central Park
If you are going to visit New York City, you’ll need an entirely separate travel bucket list dedicated solely to this famous city. There is world-class pizza to be eaten, Broadway shows to be seen, and 5th Avenue shopping to be done, but one thing you simply have to do in New York is spend the entire day in Central Park. This massive park situated right in the middle of Manhattan is a gorgeous oasis away from the regular hustle and bustle of city life. Pack a blanket and a picnic basket filled with bodega sandwiches, and hunker down on the Great Lawn. After a filling lunch, hit up all the famous park spots like the Bethesda terrace and the Loeb Boathouse.
Take a Lava Tour in Hawaii
Thrill-seekers will love the experience of beholding the awe-inspiring majesty of flowing lava. Of course, the only way to do this (safely) is by going with an expert guide and ensuring you get all the proper safety gear before you go on the tour. After getting as close to the lava as humanly possible, cool off with a dip in the water on one of the many beautiful beaches on The Big Island.
Go to the Happiest Place on Earth
If you ever end up in Florida, you have to head over to Disney World in Orlando. Disney World is particularly perfect for families since there is plenty to do for people of all ages. “Travel the world” in Epcot, hang out with Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters in Magic Kingdom, and visit the lions in the Animal Kingdom. Disney World is just one of those places you have to visit at least once in your life.
Ready to see all that the United States has to offer? Buy your bus ticket today!
