In Honor of America’s 250th- Our Favorite Places from A-Z

In Honor of America’s 250th

Our Favorite Places from A-Z

To celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary of independence, we’re compiling a favorite places list across the country—A to Z, one destination for every letter of the alphabet.

What makes it unique? First, I’ve personally visited every place. Second, it’s a mix of national parks, standout museums, scenic viewpoints, and creative hidden gems.

From architecture and art to music, food, culture, and landscapes, the U.S. is endlessly diverse and full of surprises. Step outside your comfort zone, explore a state you’ve never visited, and you’ll always find something inspiring, memorable, and worth the journey.

Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland/ Virginia

Home to the famous wild horses that roam freely along the beaches and marshes. How did they get there? Legends abound, but no one knows for sure. Accessible only by boat, this unique island is an unforgettable destination.

Biltmore, Asheville, North Carolina

Step into the Gilded Age at America’s largest privately owned home. Built by George Vanderbilt II in the late 1800s, this French château-style mansion boasts 250 rooms, breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views, and magnificent gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted—the visionary landscape architect behind Central Park.

Central Park, New York

One of Central Park’s most iconic spots, Bethesda Terrace, is surprisingly missed by many visitors. Featured in Gossip Girl and the unforgettable “That’s How You Know” scene from Enchanted, it offers stunning architecture, a beautiful fountain, and picturesque park views. While you're there, explore the magic of Central Park landmarks like Bow Bridge and Belvedere Castle, and enjoy the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms in spring or colorful foliage in fall.

Devil’s Den, Williston Florida

This fascinating spot dates back to prehistoric times. What appears to be a small surface opening, resembling a tiny window, reveals a much larger spring beneath. This geological wonder, known as a karst window, was formed when the roof of an underground cave collapsed. It serves as a remarkable example of one of the over 700 natural crystal-blue springs in Florida. Think of it as a partial natural roof that has given way to an incredible sinkhole just below the surface—no frills, no hiking required—making it super accessible and easy to enjoy.

Elephant Seal Rookery, California

Located on the Pacific Coast Highway, which is one of the most well-known highways in the U.S. This unique (and free) stop is home to thousands of elephant seals, fighting, nursing their young, playing and just chilling, and putting on a free show for all the visitors to witness.

Flagler Museum, Palm Beach Florida

Henry Flagler, known as the father of modern Florida, co- founded Standard Oil alongside John D. Rockefeller. This e extraordinary man is credited with transforming Palm Beach and Miami into sought-after tourist destinations. Step back into the opulence of America's Gilded Age at his palatial, 75-room winter estate, which he built as a monumental testament of love on the Palm Beach waterfront. Flagler’s vision extended beyond luxury; he was pivotal in developing Florida's east coast by constructing the railroad that opened up the region for tourism and economic growth. As a Miami native, I felt it was essential to include him on this list, celebrating his lasting impact on Florida and its vibrant destinations.

Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta, Georgia

Whale sharks—enough said. Home to one of the largest aquariums in the world, its massive 11-million-gallon habitat is filled with whale sharks, manta rays, and sea turtles. A gift to the city made possible by Home Depot co-founder Bernard Marcus, it’s the kind of place where you can spend hours mesmerized by a single viewing window.

HIlton Head, South Carolina

Not all beaches nor all sunrises are created equal. Hilton Head has something truly magical about it- a mix of the lowlands, lush greenery, long beaches, and just an overall relaxed vibe and lifestyle. You slow down, enjoy, but the greatest add-on here is the southern charm.

Iowa State Capitol

Des Moines, Iowa

Not all state capitals are created equal, and neither are their capitol buildings. The Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines is one of the finest I've visited. Its gleaming gold dome is impressive from the outside, but the real surprise is the stunning interior, including the magnificent State Law Library.

If you're in Iowa, don't miss a tour of the Capitol. While you're there, make time for the Des Moines Farmers' Market and the Iowa State Fair—both among the very best in the country.

Jack Daniel's Distillery, Lynchburg, Tennessee

This distillery is the one that put American whiskey on the map- literally. This is the oldest distillery in the U.S., and the only place where all Jack Daniels whiskey is produced. Learn the history, craftsmanship, and personal stories unfold while you visit, and of course, you can partake in a full whiskey tasting.

Kaibab Trail, Grand Canyon Arizona

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic national parks in the world. The park is divided between the quieter North Rim and the more visited South Rim, home to the famous South Kaibab Trail. This scenic trail offers some of the Grand Canyon’s most breathtaking panoramic views without being overly strenuous. One of the first overlooks along the route is Ooh Aah Point—a fitting name for the jaw-dropping view that awaits.

Lower Antelope Canyon, Page, Arizona

Lower Antelope Canyon was my favorite of the two Antelope Canyon experiences (Lower Antelope and Upper Antelope). Carved by water through sandstone over thousands of years, its winding passageways, sculpted rock formations, and stunning colors make it truly unforgettable. I first visited with my husband and loved it so much that I returned with my kids so they could experience it too. The canyon’s V-shaped walls and the sunlight filtering through the narrow openings create a magical scene around every turn--totally unforgettable!

Mount Rushmore, Keystone, South Dakota

This was at the very top of my bucket list for years—I even planned an entire RV trip around it. Seeing the four 60-foot-tall presidential faces carved into the granite of the Black Hills was every bit as impressive as I had imagined. Visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial gave me the chance to explore all of South Dakota, which turned out to be one of the most beautiful and underrated states I’ve ever visited.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is the capital of country music, and you haven’t truly experienced the genre until you’ve spent an evening on Broadway, where live music pours out of every bar. Between the legendary honky-tonks, the fascinating Country Music Hall of Fame, and the surprising full-scale Parthenon replica, the city blends music, history, and fun into the perfect getaway. And whatever you do, don’t miss the party bus.

Ogunquit, Maine

Maine is the definition of New England charm, and Ogunquit captures it perfectly. With dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, the scenic Marginal Way, lobster, local art, and a walkable downtown, it’s the kind of coastal town that feels straight out of a postcard. This is New England charm at its very best.

Puerto Rico

I was debating whether I should include Puerto Rico or not, but it is part of the USA, and that is what we are celebrating here. In Puerto Rico I have kayaked through bioluminescent waters at night, visited El Yunque, the only national rainforest in all of the U.S., explored the unique architecture of Old San Juan, been to a Bad Bunny Concert in his home base, and explored some of the most amazing caves I have ever seen. Plus the beaches are just amazing.

Dairy Queen

This may be a stretch, but to me, Dairy Queen is the Queen of all Queens. Whenever I drive somewhere outside my usual radius, I check on Waze how far we are from the nearest Dairy Queen. This has become quite a family tradition and has brought me to Dairy Queen locations across Florida, Virginia, Utah, and Montana. Don’t forget to request that the blizzard be served upside down!

Fun fact: The only U.S. state without a Dairy Queen is Vermont. Every other state has at least one Dairy Queen location

Renwick Gallery: Washington DC

I love Washington, DC. I lived there for 2.5 years. Smaller than most Smithsonian museums, the Smithsonian American Art Museum celebrates American art and craft through creative, thought-provoking exhibits that constantly challenge the way you see things. It’s far from a typical art museum—just take a closer look at the Game Fish exhibit and you’ll see what I mean.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

This is definitely not one of the most well-known national parks, but it is as beautiful as they come. Made up of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this lesser-known park is not to be missed. Super manageable, easy to hike, and its main feature- the 105 Mile Skyline Drive. It also has many waterfalls along the way, which are easy to access via short hikes, as well as beautiful lookout points.

Tahoe, California and Nevada

I’ve experienced Lake Tahoe in every season, but fall is when it truly feels magical. Along the eastern shore, crystal-clear turquoise water surrounds massive granite boulders, creating some of the most stunning scenery in the country. It’s a view that never gets old, no matter how many times you see it.

Upper Mesa Falls, Idaho

This place literally took my breath away. Located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, a paved trail and boardwalk bring you right up to the edge of a powerful 114-foot waterfall that stretches nearly 200 feet wide over volcanic rock. The roar of the falls is unforgettable—and on your way out, don’t miss the chance to grab a famous Idaho baked potato from a nearby roadside stop.

Vail Colorado

Colorado is spectacular, and Vail is one of its true gems. Styled like a European alpine village, this ski town is just as magical in the off-season—whether you’re biking along the river, hiking the mountain trails, or riding the mountain coaster. In winter, it becomes a near-perfect ski destination, blending world-class slopes with that unmistakable small town mountain charm.

Walmart Museum, Bentonville, Arkansas

The Walmart Museum was truly fascinating, offering a closer look at Walmart's history, its impact on America, and the story of its beloved founder. Sam Walton opened the very first store—then called Walton’s—in Bentonville, Arkansas, choosing small towns that needed access to more affordable goods. From there, it grew into the company we know today, with its headquarters still rooted in Bentonville. For more context on his story, the book Sam Walton: Made in America is a great read. Even now, the town reflects that legacy, with much of its growth shaped by Walmart—from museums and offices to hotels, the airport, and even the amphitheater.

X Marks the Spot, Badwater Basin, California

Not surprisingly, finding something that matched the letter X was a challenge, so we went with “X Marks the Spot” at Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park. Sitting 282 feet below sea level, it’s the lowest point in North America. The salt flats form when shallow water evaporates, leaving behind salt crystals that crack into polygon patterns as the ground contracts. While these fractures can sometimes resemble Xs in photos or certain light, they’re really just a natural mosaic of geometric shapes.

Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming

The world’s first national park, Yellowstone National Park, feels like stepping into another world. Bubbling mud pots, erupting geysers, and steaming hot springs showcase the raw power of Earth’s geothermal forces. The Grand Prismatic Spring adds a surreal rainbow of color, while wild bison roaming freely are the perfect finishing touch. It’s a place you truly have to see to believe.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful national parks, with dramatic scenery and unforgettable sunsets glowing against deep crimson rock. The highlight is The Narrows, where you wade through a canyon-carving river with water up to your knees, surrounded by towering thousand-foot cliffs of sandstone that narrow so tightly they nearly block out the sky.

I’ve been to every state that starts with the letter A (Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas), C (California, Colorado, Connecticut), D (Delaware), F (Florida), and G (Georgia), and 36 states in total.

This list includes an incredible mix of places—one amazing city, charming towns, a U.S. territory, national parks and special corners within them, museums, a waterfall, and more. Together, they help tell the story of the United States and the remarkable diversity that makes this country so special.

From architecture, music, food, culture, and art to landscapes that range from deserts and mountains to forests and coastlines, America offers endless opportunities for discovery. Step out of your comfort zone, visit a state your friends have never been to, and set a course for somewhere new. You'll almost always find something impressive, inspiring, and memorable.

Some places seem like destinations you'll only ever read about. I hope this list encourages you to dig a little deeper, venture a little farther, and start checking some of those bucket-list landmarks off for yourself. Maybe it will even inspire you to create your own A-to-Z list of favorite places.

Happy 250th Birthday, USA!

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