Depending on what your definition of ‘Top or Best’ is, I wanted to get your attention in this headline! I am actually sharing my travel highlights from 2019. They were so incredible, I highly recommend them to you. It can be exhilarating looking to what’s ahead for future travel and adventures! I get these feelings every time we make travel plans. Therefore, I compiled a list of the beloved places we have ventured to this past year. Here are the top 10 USA travel destinations & adventures you should do!
Maui, Hawaii.
One of the world’s most popular and beautiful tropical destinations to experience is Maui, Hawaii. The incredible nature and unique things to do here are too many to describe. One of my favorites is seeing the whales on a whale watch excursion. Hearing the sounds the whales make while communicating underwater is amazing. Browsing around the small town of Lahaina is an absolute joy. You will find plenty of historic museums, restaurants, and souvenir shops to tickle your fancy. Take a journey with me on my 5 days in Maui here.
San Diego, California.
It is known as America’s finest city, and they are not kidding. With its comfortable year round climate, stunning landscapes, and beaches galore, it will have you coming back for more! San Diego, California offers such a diverse range of things to do, so I have gathered some of the unique activities and beautiful beaches to visit for your next trip. San Diego Beaches.
Austin, Texas.
This vibrant Texas place is about much more than just music, restaurants, and culture. The nature and outdoor activity is incredibly abundant near and around Austin! Kayaking in Lake Austin and visiting a fragile ecosystem of waterfalls in Colorado Bend State Park, I highly recommend.. Here are some really cool things to do while in Austin!
Scottsdale, Arizona
Red and orange colored sunsets are not the only thing that will tempt you to visit Scottsdale and the Phoenix area. The types of fun and adventure can be found both indoors and outdoors in this Arizona desert oasis. From hiking Pinnacle Peak and Granite Mountain to browsing comfortably throughout the Scottsdale Mall or taking in a day at the spa; there is plenty to keep you engaged all year round!
Sarasota, Florida
The Gulf Coast is probably my favorite area within the state of Florida to visit. Having lived in Manatee County near Bradenton-Sarasota, I have a soft spot in my heart for this place. You will find plenty of the arts, museums, farmer’s markets, and of course beaches!
Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah is one of the most beautiful states in the USA. From the red rock canyons to the snow capped mountains this is one place you must see! Salt Lake City is a lovely city with its western charm and urban delights, to the outdoor adventures that will certainly entice! We enjoyed our visit to this destination taking in a stroll around the city park, enjoying the brisk Fall colors, the amazing hike to find waterfalls. Finally, we made a last minute road trip over to the incredible Capitol Reef National Park. Check out these many reasons why you should visit Utah!
Bryce Canyon National Park
One of the most beautiful parks among the Mighty Five in the spectacular state of Utah, is Bryce Canyon National Park! The perfect eye candy to appease any photographer and adventurer! Red cliff canyons galore, hiking through the hoodoos, and natural bridges are enough to fill your soul to last a lifetime. Plan your road trip to Bryce Canyon today!
Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Located just outside the small town of Medora, North Dakota; Theodore Roosevelt National Park is home to 70,446 acres of open spaces, prairies, and painted rolling hills! You will find wild horses roaming the lands, wild bison grazing, and massive numbers of prairie dogs watching your every move! We enjoy this park because it is not over crowded, it’s peaceful and the yummy ice cream treats are delish in Medora! North Dakota is a wonderful place to visit!
Yellowstone National Park
This place is not only thrilling to visit, but it is also alive and active! The earth is bubbling, the geysers are blowing, and the wild animals rule these lands! The most beautiful area is the Grand Prismatic Springs, geysers and hot springs; but yet this might be the most toxic place as well. Take a journey through the park here.
Hiking Half Dome In Yosemite National Park
The highlight of the year for us has got to be our hiking journey to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. We set a few goals to challenge ourselves this past year and this was one of them. Awaking to the early hours of the morning, climbing puddle filled stairs, splashing through waterfalls, and climbing slippery granite rock stone. This hiking adventure is one unbelievable experience! Plan your Half Dome hiking challenge today!
Summary
Many people find themselves pressured to make new year’s resolutions or plan to do this or that. Perhaps this year should consist of taking one day at a time. Fill your days with appreciation and do things that make you happy. I enjoy setting goals and challenging myself, so this is what I like to do. We also enjoy seeing new places and exploring amazing nature filled parks and lands. So plan your year and keep a journal and I hope to see your top 10 travel and life adventures too!
Really enjoyed reading about your 2019 travel highlights! There are some great spots in this list. I’ve had Bryce Canyon and more generally the Southwest on my bucket list for years now. Hope to visit one day!
You must visit Bryce Canyon, it is amazing there! Thank you so much for reading Becky!
You’ve had an amazing year full of adventures! I love the idea of taking one day at a time, filling my days with appreciation. Thanks for the inspiration to visit some fantastic destinations in the US!!
Oh yes we have Cynthia! And we are so grateful to have had the opportunity to do them all! Thank you so much for all your support!
I’d like to do a photography travel trip around America. My great nephew is named Austin.
That sounds like an amazing trip! I would love to see all the travel photography you do, which I’ll be visiting your website! Austin is a very cool place and there is so many things to do! My goodness, my nephew is also named Austin! lol!