I've been to all 50 states and every major national park. Here are 6 places in the US I think everyone should experience at least once.
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There are a few places in the US I think everyone should see at least once. romeovip_md/Shutterstock 2026-04-21T13:34:23.392Z Share Copy link Email Facebook WhatsApp X LinkedIn Bluesky Threads lighning bolt icon An icon in the shape of a lightning bolt.
Impact Link Save Saved Read in app This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now. Have an account? Log in. I've traveled to all 50 states and every major US national park. In my opinion, everyone should travel to New York and New Orleans at least once. I also recommend checking out natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Park. AI-generated summary Summaries are generated by an AI model trained on Business Insider's articles. AI may make mistakes or provide inaccurate/incomplete information. We're unable to load that answer right now. Please try again. What makes the Grand Canyon a must-see? What are the top natural wonders in the US? What defines a meaningful travel experience? Why are New York and New Orleans unique? How does solo travel enhance experiences? As a solo traveler who's explored all 50 states and every major US national park, I've had the privilege of witnessing the country's diversity and beauty firsthand.Though the most meaningful travel experiences vary by individual, certain places are so awe-inspiring that I think everyone should experience them at least once. Here are six of them. Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park is unlike anywhere else in the US. The views from Grand Canyon National Park are incredible.
Emily Hart Standing at the edge of the 278-mile Grand Canyon is a humbling experience.The perspective from above on the rim (or from below if you're hiking) reminds me of the vastness of the world and how small we really are.The views at sunrise and sunset are especially breathtaking. With a diverse ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and lots of recreation opportunities, Grand Canyon National Park is a destination that must be seen to be understood. New Orleans has a unique soul. There's so much to do in New Orleans.
Emily Hart New Orleans' Creole architecture, widespread live music, street art, and delicious food give it a soul I haven't found anywhere else in the US.The many festivals and celebrations, including Mardi Gras, set the city apart and help make a visit to New Orleans an experience.
The Great Lakes offer breathtaking scenery.
The Great Lakes are worth a visit.
Emily Hart As someone who grew up in the Midwest, I don't think this part of the country gets the credit it deserves. Many people still refer to it as "flyover country," suggesting there's not much to do or see in this part of the US.However, the Midwest is full of natural beauty, and places like the Great Lakes are worth visiting. The five interconnected freshwater lakes — Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario — boast some incredible landscapes.From the idyllic Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior to the majesty of Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago, this region offers something for everyone.
New York City has an unbeatable energy. I love how diverse New York City's neighborhoods are.
Emily Hart New York City has diverse neighborhoods, world-class art and museums, and an energy you won't find anywhere else.The city's historical significance can't be overstated. Its status as a fashion, financial, and media hub means there's always something new to see.
Northern New Mexico is a special part of the country.
Northern New Mexico is beautiful.
Emily Hart Though I love all of New Mexico, the northern part of the state is distinct, with its wide-open spaces and unique art and cultural experiences.The tourist areas of Santa Fe and Taos offer ample opportunities for shopping and visiting museums, art galleries, and restaurants. But if you're looking for a lesser-known spot, I recommend checking out the Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center, where visitors can spend a day hiking or horseback riding.
Yosemite National Park in California is full of natural beauty. See cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias in Yosemite National Park.
Emily Hart California is home to some of the country's most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes, but Yosemite National Park really stands out.Yosemite's granite cliffs are among the most impressive natural formations in the world. The park is also home to magnificent waterfalls and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, where visitors can walk among over 500 of these trees.This story was originally published on December 2, 2024, and most recently updated on April 21, 2026.