Your Ultimate Summer USA Travel Bucket List

  • By Christopher da Costa
  • Published 26 April 2024
  • Revised 10 December 2024
Your Ultimate Summer USA Travel Bucket List
  • By Christopher da Costa
  • Published 26 April 2024
  • Revised 10 December 2024
Your Ultimate Summer USA Travel Bucket List
  • By Christopher da Costa
  • Published 26 April 2024
  • Revised 10 December 2024
With summer fast approaching, it’s time to brighten up your holiday plans. The USA offers an incredible variety to suit all adventurers, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, foodie, beach-goer or all of the above. But if you need a little help deciding on your next destination, we’ve used our expert knowledge to help make your bucket list come true!


Behold the Grand Canyon



Get your cameras (and poses) at the ready for this one. Visiting the Grand Canyon is one of the top bucket list items for any USA holiday. Carved over millions of years by the mighty Colorado River, this natural wonder is a truly breathtaking and awe-inspiring sight. There are several ways of experiencing the magic of the Canyon. You can admire from above, courtesy of a helicopter tour, challenge yourself to a hike, or explore via kayak. One of the best times to witness the Grand Canyon in all its glory is either sunrise or sunset, where you can watch the colours come alive with the changing light.


Cruise Route 66



Route 66 has become known as the holy grail of American road trips. Start your journey in Chicago where the route officially begins and work your way across eight States, ending in California. In full, the route can take around two to three weeks to complete and includes some iconic sites. Cadillac Ranch, amongst the Texan desert is a quirky collection of graffiti covered Cadillacs half buried in the sand. Or you can stop off at St Louis, a melting pot of culture, history, music, and sport in Missouri. And don’t forget to pay a visit to the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum, dedicated to the most important highway in America. But if time doesn’t permit the full route, you can always choose to do a little road tripping paired with some more essential USA travel bucket list items. 


Go camping in Alaska



If you crave the great outdoors, Alaska should be top of your bucket list. Known as ‘The Last Frontier,’ it has a host of national parks, majestic mountains, and ample camping spots. It’s also highly regarded for its wildlife viewing. Bears, moose, caribou, and wolves all call Alaska home, and if you’re lucky enough, you may spot a few in the wild. So, get your cameras at the ready.


Trek Yellowstone National Park



Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the USA and promises stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and wildlife encounters out in the country. For those that want to get a workout in this holiday season, there are several trails to take advantage of, such as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, which offers incredible views of the canyon and Lower Falls, and Fairy Falls Trails, which is a forest hike to a breathtaking 197-foot waterfall.


Take a bite of the Big Apple



Nothing screams USA quite like the world-famous landmarks of New York City. Let this summer be the one you tick off those bucket list sites, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the sprawling Central Park. And once you’re done with all that, you can relax with a beloved New York pizza slice, take in a renowned Broadway show, or catch a game at the iconic Yankee Stadium.


Visit historic landmarks of Washington D.C.



Immerse yourself in American history and culture with a visit to Washington D.C. This city is filled with USA bucket list items, including the icon of the States, The White House, the U.S. Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument. There are also several museums and art galleries, making it a perfect stop for any culture vultures in the family. Although, be aware, if you are going at the height of the summer holidays, you should consider booking tours and tickets in advance as it’s a popular tourist destination.


Stroll along the Las Vegas Strip



An absolute must on any travel wish list is a visit to Sin City. Even if only once! Stepping foot on the iconic Las Vegas Strip is a sensory experience like no other, with dazzling lights, entertainment galore, and breathtaking Casinos. Many may think Vegas is an adult’s paradise, but over the years it has also developed a family friendly atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy family meals in one of the many dining options, take in a legendary Vegas show, or splash some cash with a shopping spree. What happens in Vegas doesn't have to stay there after all!


Live it up in Miami



Known for its beautiful beaches, stunning Art Deco landscape, vibrant nightlife, and shopping heaven, Miami has something for all the family to enjoy. Sun worshippers will absolutely want to soak up those Sunshine State rays on the famous sandy shores of South Beach, while others may prefer wandering through the pastel-coloured Art Deco architecture or hitting the boutiques. Plus, as the sun sets, the city comes alive with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and club choices to end the day in style.


Beach bliss in Hawaii



No USA travel bucket list could be complete without mentioning the stunning islands of Hawaii. Whether you’re in the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, the state capital and largest city, Honolulu, or the hiking paradise of Kauai, you will be in awe of these majestic landscapes. Every island offers postcard perfect beaches for you to fully unwind and let your troubles slip away. Hawaii is also a perfect choice for any water sports enthusiast. Surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving are all popular choices. And with inviting crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning shores, you’ll be itching to get out there.


Ready for your next USA adventure? Browse our incredible USA holidays.

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