Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or a cozy winter getaway, the United States offers a diverse array of dream destinations. From desert marvels to snowy retreats, this guide covers the best places to travel in the United States year-round—including top picks for October, November, and December.
Here are the best places to travel in the US, evaluated on beauty, accessibility, seasonal appeal, and unique experiences:
Top 10 Places to Travel in the United States
1. New York City, New York
Known for its iconic skyline, world-class museums, and Broadway shows, **New York City** is one of the **best places to travel in the US**. It shines in **December** with festive decorations, holiday markets, and ice skating in Central Park.
2. Grand Canyon, Arizona
The **Grand Canyon** offers breathtaking vistas year-round. **October** brings cooler weather and fewer crowds—ideal for hiking along the rim or descending into the canyon.
3. Maui, Hawaii
For a tropical escape, **Maui** remains one of the **best places to travel**, especially in **November** and **December**, when you can avoid the crowds and enjoy whale watching season.
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
Known for its jazz, cuisine, and festivals, **New Orleans** offers a soulful escape in **November**—after hurricane season but before holiday tourism spikes.
5. Aspen, Colorado
One of the **best places to travel in December**, **Aspen** becomes a winter wonderland with world-class skiing, cozy lodges, and festive events in its charming mountain village.
6. Savannah, Georgia
Charming parks draped in Spanish moss and historic squares make **Savannah** a standout pick in **October** and **November**, before the southern heat sets in.
7. San Francisco, California
Famed for its Golden Gate Bridge, colorful neighborhoods, and mild weather, **San Francisco** is one of the **best places to travel**—especially in **October**, when the city experiences a “second summer” with clear skies and warm days.
8. Glacier National Park, Montana
September and early **October** are ideal for hiking Glacier’s pristine trails. With fewer bugs, vibrant fall foliage, and stunning mountain lakes, it’s a top scenic destination.
9. Charleston, South Carolina
Combining coastal beaches and historic charm, **Charleston** is one of the **best places to travel in the United States**—particularly in **November**, when the weather is breezy and warm.
10. Key West, Florida
For a winter sun getaway, **Key West** remains one of the best **December** destinations, with laid-back beaches, snorkeling, and festive holiday events by the water.
🧠Seasonal Travel Tips
- October: Explore fall foliage in New England or head to Arizona’s national parks for cooler weather and smaller crowds.
- November: Visit southern cities like Savannah, New Orleans, and Charleston for mild weather and cultural events.
- December: Think festive cities—New York City, Aspen, Key West—for holiday charm, winter sports, or sun escapes.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Best Places
- Book early, especially for holidays and fall foliage season.
- Pack for weather variability—layers are essential for cooler destinations.
- Be flexible with dates to score the best travel deals.
- Research events and festivals—like La Fête de Joie in New Orleans or holiday markets in NYC—to enhance your stay.
Final Thoughts
The best places to travel in the United States offer everything from urban excitement to natural serenity. Whether you’re chasing autumn colors, seeking a winter escape, or cruising coastal highways, these ten destinations promise memorable experiences and landscapes.
Use this guide to plan your next trip—or build an entire year’s-worth of travels around the seasons. And remember, for scenic beauty and breathtaking views, don’t forget to dive into our most beautiful places list.
If you’re drawn to scenic beauty, be sure to also explore our guide to the Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in the United States. These destinations range from coastal gems to mountain retreats—you’ll want to add them all!
Need help mapping your trip or estimating travel costs? Check out CalculationClub.com – it offers free calculators to help with budgets, distances, conversions, and more.
