The word "grand" doesn't even come close to describing this canyon. This massive chasm in northern Arizona is truly a natural wonder, measuring approximately 277 river miles in length, up to 18 miles in width, and a mile deep. The Grand Canyon has been expanding for 6 million years thanks to the mighty Colorado River, and visitors from all over the world have flocked to see its red and orange splendor. The Grand Canyon, which is managed by the National Park Service and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is awe-inspiring to its 6 million annual visitors.

However, if you're looking for a secluded retreat to Mother Nature, you'll need to be prepared: It is possible that the Grand Canyon will be extremely crowded. The Grand Canyon Village and the well-worn Bright Angel Trail are located on the South Rim, which is particularly popular with sightseers and hikers. The majority of the amenities are located on this side. Head to the North Rim to get away from the crowds. This is the place to go if you want to go camping in the woods or go hiking in the mountains. Consider taking a helicopter tour of the canyon for an unforgettable view.

• Best Times to Visit: March through May and September through November
  
• Best Things To Do: enjoying the view, flying above on a helicopter tour, hiking,..
  
• Location: Arizona, U.S.

Yosemite National Park, one of California's most formidable natural landscapes, spans nearly 1,200 square miles of sheer awe, with towering waterfalls, millennia-old sequoia trees, striking, intimidating cliff faces, and some of the country's most unique rock formations. Despite its enormous size, Yosemite Valley's 8-square-mile area hosts the majority of tourist activity. Half Dome and El Capitan, two of the park's most famous landmarks, are located here, as are excellent hiking trails through the natural monuments.

Yosemite is accessible to even inexperienced hikers: local adventure outfitters offer guided tours and climbing lessons (such as those featured on our list of the best California tours). Just don't expect to be able to do it on your own. Crowds are the biggest obstacle to an enjoyable Yosemite vacation, as they are in many other American tourist destinations – approximately 4 million people visit each year. Mother Nature's wonders will reveal themselves to you in a miraculous and serene way if you go at the right time (and start your day a little earlier than usual).

• Best Times to Visit:May and September
  
• Best Things To Do:hiking, trekking, climbing and skiing
  
• Location: Tuolumne, Mariposa, Mono and Madera Counties, California, United States

Yellowstone National Park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with dramatic peaks and pristine lakes. Multicolored pools swirl around hot springs, lush forests weave through vast meadows, and erupting geysers shoot streams of steaming water into the air. With so much unspoiled natural beauty, it's no surprise that when John Colter (a scout for explorers Lewis and Clark) first described Yellowstone's geothermal wonders in 1807, everyone suspected he was embellishing. Nowadays, there's no denying that the park is spectacular. Prepare to share the trails with permanent residents such as buffalo, elk, and even grizzlies as you travel through its 3,000-plus square miles of mountains, canyons, geysers, and waterfalls.

Despite the fact that Yellowstone attracts over 4 million visitors each year, you're unlikely to see many of them unless you spend your entire trip at Old Faithful. Yellowstone's 2.2 million acres stretch from Wyoming's northwest corner to the borders of Idaho and Montana, providing plenty of undeveloped land to explore. Make a day or two to visit Yellowstone Lake and Mammoth Hot Springs to take in the scenery. Save some time for the trails through lesser-known areas, such as the West Thumb Geyser Basin's hot springs and the Lewis River Channel and Dogshead Loop's untamed wildlife. While the sheer number of trails and wildlife-watching opportunities may appear overwhelming at first, keep in mind that you can always return.

• Best Times to Visit: late April to May, July and August, September through early Octobe
  
• Best Things To Do: hiking trails and basins, horseback riding,fishing , wildlife-watching
  
• Location:Wyoming, Montana, Idaho

Maui isn't as big as the Big Island, nor is it as small as Lanai, as busy as Oahu, or as peaceful as Kauai. Maui is ideal for many Hawaii visitors, as it provides a taste of almost everything the Aloha State has to offer, from breathtaking wildlife to fascinating history and culture. You can shimmy with professional hula dancers, golf along coastal fairways, zip down a zip line, snorkel with five different types of sea turtles, or simply relax on some of Hawaii's most famous beaches during your visit.

Maui, one of the archipelago's most popular tourist destinations, is sandwiched between the Big Island and the much smaller Molokai (which you can learn more about by joining one of the best Maui tours).

Many visitors base themselves along the coasts of South Maui (home to the famous Wailea Beach) or West Maui (home to the sands of Kaanapali Beach and the music of the Old Lahaina Luau), where they can enjoy the sands of Kaanapali Beach and the music of the Old Lahaina Luau). The rest of the island, however, should not be overlooked. Explore East Maui's scenic coastline along the Road to Hana, the world's largest dormant volcano, Haleakala in the Upcountry, and the former tribal battlegrounds of Central Maui's Iao Valley State Park. Reserve a spot on one of Maui's best helicopter tours for a bird's-eye view of it all.

• Best Times to Visit: April through May and September through November
  
• Best Things To Do: hiking Haleakala volcano or flying above it on a helicopter tour, soaking up the sun, snorkeling, ...
  
• Location: Flathead County & Glacier County, Montana, United States

Glacier National Park is located on the border of Canada and Montana and is named after the remnants of ice age glaciers. Because of its dizzying array of natural beauty, it is often referred to as the "Crown of the Continent." Hikers will enjoy the park's variety of trails, which range from the easy Trail of the Cedars (which features towering and beautiful cedars) to the challenging Grinnell Glacier (which offers sweeping views). Furthermore, the park contains over 700 lakes, numerous waterfalls, and two mountain ranges spread across more than 1 million acres, all of which provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.

It has a lot of history in addition to its stunning geological features. The Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic 50-mile drive through the park that offers spectacular views and access to popular hiking trails, is a National Historic Landmark and an engineering marvel. In addition, many of the park's lodges, chalets, and hotels date from the early twentieth century and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Are you interested in visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site? The Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is also located here.

Glacier National Park implemented a ticketed entry system for certain park entrances through Sept. 6, 2021, to limit the number of people visiting the park. For more information, go to the National Park Service's website.

• Best Times to Visit: Flathead County & Glacier County, Montana, United States
  
• Best Things To Do: hiking trails,,
  
• Location: New York

The Big Apple combines big city splendor with small-town charm. It's cool, cosmopolitan, crowded, and constantly evolving. You'll find a vibrant culture pervading each of Gotham's distinct neighborhoods and boroughs among the city's iconic landmarks and towering skyscrapers. Follow indie boutiques, iconic bakeries, and trendy coffee shops to the East Village and Brooklyn, where trendsetters frequent. After that, browse the racks of Fifth Avenue's posh stores, admire the cutting-edge art collections at the MoMA and the Met, catch a memorable Broadway show, or dine at the latest "it" restaurant.

NYC requires stamina as the country's most populous city, set at the forefront of food, fashion, and the arts. However, don't let the Big Apple's frenetic sights and sounds deter you from taking in the city's splendor. Enlist the assistance of a local to guide you through the process. You'll see roaring taxis zipping down busy blocks, fast-paced pedestrians strolling past on their way to marquee galleries and trendy cocktail bars, and Times Square's neon lights flickering at all hours if you walk through the concrete jungle. The city's twinkling lights and chaotic corners, on the other hand, invite you to live in the moment, to explore every enclave, and to create your own urban adventure. In the city, there are countless ways to spend your time.

There are endless things to do in the city that never sleeps, but before you leave, take a look around – what's here today will be transformed into something bigger and better tomorrow.

• Best Times to Visit: anytime
  
• Best Things To Do: visiting soaring skyscrapers, contemplating works on display, feasting on ethnic fare ,hop over to rooftop bars and jazz clubs
  
• Location: New York

San Francisco attracts free-spirited types with an eye for edgy art, a taste for imaginative cuisine, and a thirst for adventure, thanks to its jumbled collage of colorful neighborhoods and beautiful views. It's not surprising that Tony Bennett, the songwriter, left his heart here: There's no shortage of things to do in this city, with jaw-dropping sights, world-class cuisine, cozy cafes, and a thriving nightlife scene. Spend an hour or two on the beach with the sea lions, admiring the city views from Twin Peaks, or strolling through the Marina. Enjoy a ride on the cable car or a boat tour to cruise beneath the Golden Gate Bridge for a truly authentic San Francisco experience.

Cool and compact San Francisco, often referred to as Los Angeles' more refined northern cousin, combines the big-city buzz of its southern counterpart with a sense of small-town charm. Throughout San Francisco's many vibrant quarters, you'll find a patchwork of culture flourishing. Follow the crowds to the touristy Fisherman's Wharf area (which has spectacular views of Alcatraz), then head along the bay to the Presidio for a glimpse of the famous Golden Gate Bridge. But don't forget to set aside time to visit the Mission District, the Haight, and the Castro to get a taste of the diverse San Francisco lifestyle. Join one of San Francisco's best wine tours when you're ready for a break from the city.

• Best Times to Visit: February to May, December or January
  
• Best Things To Do: climbing, walking, enjoying food, visiting Alcatraz Island, Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf,...
  
• Location: California

New Orleans is known for its European-style architecture, delectable Creole cuisine, and upbeat atmosphere. And music serves as its backbone: jazz, blues, rock 'n' roll, and Zydeco tunes can be heard in every city crevice. Mardi Gras, an extravagant party with Carnival elements such as masks, music, floats, and merriment, is the main reason for many visitors. Even if you miss Mardi Gras, you'll find a party year-round, with revelers pouring out of Bourbon Street clubs until the early hours of the morning and a festival of some sort almost every weekend.

New Orleans has thrived despite past environmental disasters such as the BP oil spill, Hurricane Katrina, and Hurricane Isaac. Major efforts have been made to restore the distinct districts over the last several years. Today, the Crescent City appears to be almost brand new. So begin your trip with a walking tour of the French Quarter, where colonial history and ghost stories abound. You can visit the major architectural sites from here before enjoying a hearty plate of jambalaya and a wild night out.

• Best Times to Visit: February to May, December or January
  
• Best Things To Do: Nightlife and rolling , shopping
  
• Location: Louisiana
  

Zion National Park, located in Utah's southwest corner and named after the Hebrew word "refuge," is no longer the peaceful haven it once was. With over four million visitors per year, the park is now one of the most popular in the country.

It's as if visitors have discovered a hidden gem and can't get enough of the apricot-colored Zion Canyon, which they can see while wading through its Virgin River or ascending Angels Landing, with each bend in the river or turn in the trail providing an even better view.

In addition, the blanket of stars that blankets the night sky is a welcome end to a day of active pursuits. When it's time to return to reality from the refuge, the 166-mile drive from Las Vegas or the 308-mile drive from Salt Lake City provides just enough time to process all the beauty you've just witnessed.

• Best Times to Visit:April to November, December through February
  
• Best Things To Do: hiking trails
  
• Location: Washington, Kane, and Iron counties, Utah, United States

Oahu, more than any other Hawaiian island, combines cosmopolitan luxury with breathtaking scenery. Honolulu, the state capital, exemplifies the island's urban appeal. From the ornate Iolani Palace to the austere USS Arizona Memorial at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, there are a plethora of cultural and historic sites nearby.

A skyline of high-rises and resorts contrasts with sprawling white sand beaches in the nearby Waikiki neighborhood. Visit the North Shore for a taste of rural Hawaii. The most brilliant blue waters and meandering hikes can be found here. But those aren't the only places on Oahu worth visiting. The island's top-notch restaurants, vibrant cultural events, and wild nightlife further establish it as a "Gathering Place" for Hawaiian culture.

• Best Times to Visit:mid-April to early June, between September and mid-December, December and early April
  
• Best Things To Do:surfing and snorkeling, hiking, hopping on a helicopter for a guided tour
  
• Location: Hawaiʻi, USA

Kauai has mastered seduction with its brilliant sunsets, pristine beaches, and aquamarine skies. However, the Hawaiian chain's oldest island doesn't need to entice visitors with over-the-top luxury or tourist traps; instead, it caters to a no-muss, no-fuss traveler. Resorts aren't much taller than a coconut tree (literally). You'd rather be in the country than in the city? There are only two major highways on Kauai, and some areas can only be explored on foot or by taking one of the best Kauai boat tours.

Some say that all you need to visit is a good pair of hiking boots, an umbrella, and a sense of adventure. However, you should be aware that you may require some cash. Room rates in the winter on Kauai can reach $500 per night due to the island's natural beauty and prized hiking trails. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to get the most bang for your buck.

• Best Times to Visit: mid-May to late September, Octobe
  
• Best Things To Do: hiking, kayaking, swimming, trekking or snorkeling and relaxing on the beac
  
• Location: Hawaiʻi, USA

Wyoming's majestic Teton Mountains, towering above Jackson Hole Valley with jagged snow-capped peaks, are in high relief at Grand Teton National Park. The photo opportunities are endless, from the 13,770-foot Grand Teton to the glistening Jenny and Jackson lakes, which reflect the mountains in their depths. The park, however, isn't just for hikers and photographers. The area's trails call to hikers of all abilities during the peak summer season, revealing hidden waterfalls and breathtaking views of the Tetons. Meanwhile, kayakers, rafters, and those who simply want to float enjoy the Snake River. History buffs are drawn to historic districts like Menors Ferry and Mormon Row, which are steeped in the region's 19th-century history.

In addition to black bears, grizzlies, moose, antelope, and bison, the nearly 500-square-mile park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, grizzlies, antelope, and bison. Autumn visitors will also be able to see the park lit up with golden aspens. Travelers who want to visit another national park while on vacation can drive a few miles north to Yellowstone, which is located next to Grand Teton.

• Best Times to Visit: mid-May to late September, October
  
• Best Things To Do: hiking trails , kayaking and fishing,skiing and snowshoeing, park activitie
  
• Location: Teton County, Wyoming, United States

Washington, D.C., has long had a reputation as a stuffy government-driven town, thanks to its marbled monuments and high-profile politicians. Outsiders often perceive Washington as slow and inefficient, as John F. Kennedy once described it as a "city of southern efficiency and northern charm." However, our nation's capital is awash in new energy these days, transforming itself into an exciting, faster-paced East Coast vacation destination.

Although the government remains the city's sun, the District also has a number of well-known museums and interesting neighborhoods. D.C. is transforming into a thriving cultural hub, thanks to a recent explosion of restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and clubs. This isn't the Washington you remember from your middle school field trip, as the D.C. Tourism Board emphasizes in its DC Cool campaign. It's much hipper than that.

You can opt for a traditional D.C. tour that includes stops at the White House, the Washington Monument, the United States Capitol, and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. And there's no better way to see the sights of Washington, D.C. than by taking a stroll through the Tidal Basin. (If you go in late March or early April, you'll be rewarded with a canopy of beautiful pink blooms, just in time for the National Cherry Blossom Festival.)

If you've already seen the national monuments, get a sense of the city's more youthful ambiance, which is highlighted by urban neighborhoods, prestigious art galleries, and bustling farmers markets. While seeing the city as you remember it from history books will only take a few days, experiencing the Washington that today's residents know and love could take months.

• Best Times to Visit: September to November and March to Ma
  
• Best Things To Do: enjoying fresh food, arts and nightlife scenes, going to farmers markets, watching a show and pink cherry blossoms
  
• Location: Washington, D.C.

Incredible, extraordinary, awe-inspiring... You'll have a hard time putting into words the sheer beauty of Lake Tahoe, no matter how hard you try. Lake Tahoe, located on the California-Nevada border, has long been a popular vacation destination, attracting upwards of 2.7 million visitors each year. The steep granite cliff sides and towering mountaintops, as well as the crystal-clear waters, draw visitors to Lake Tahoe, which has earned it the reputation of being one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the United States. While the stunning blue lake itself is reason enough to visit, the surrounding area, also known as Lake Tahoe, offers miles of hiking trails, dozens of picture-perfect vistas, and some of North America's best skiing.

But hold on a second – there's more. Lake Tahoe appears to have taken on many of its neighbors' characteristics. Along the lake's north shore, you'll find high-end shopping and dining in the style of San Francisco, while the south shore's Reno-style casinos offer opportunities to try your luck. There are also many activities that Lake Tahoe is proud of, such as mountain gondola rides, hot air balloon adventures, and scenic cruises on the mirror-like water.

• Best Times to Visit: March to May, July and August, September to November.
• Best Things To Do: Skiing, Swimming, Golfing, Shopping, hiking, dining and nightlife
  
• Location: The Sierra Nevada of the U.S., along the state line of California and Nevada