The United States is a large country, and there are many different lifestyles encompassed within. No matter what type of vacation you are looking for, there is something that will appeal to you within the states. There are a few states that can offer many different styles of vacation that are just miles away from each other. Some of the main attractions are obvious highly visited, but the surrounding areas can be just as exciting if not more so, without all of the extra tourism.
Florida
Florida is known as the Sunshine State, and is known as one of the best vacation spots within the United States. The reason behind that is the vast diversity of vacations that are possible within Florida. Whether you are looking for an excitement filled family vacation, or a relaxing, romantic escape with your significant other, Florida is sure to deliver.
Florida houses both Disney World and Orlando Studios; in fact, they are within an hour drive from each other. This is the perfect getaway for those who are looking to travel with their families. You could spend an entire week in the Disney World parks and be thrilled, but why sell your vacation short? Reach out to Orlando Studios and witness some of the thrilling coasters and adventures they have in store there as well.
Looking for that romantic getaway? The Sunshine State encompasses tons of beaches that will suit anyone’s tastes. There is Miami or South Beach that offers white sandy beaches with a complimentary night life to keep you going well into the morning hours. The clubs and nightlife nestled into South Beach is known across the world and will not disappoint.
Some people prefer the low-key, quiet beaches where they can truly be together without any distractions. Luckily Florida has many beaches for that taste as well. Look into Key West or Atlantic Beach for a beach that is less crowded, but still as beautiful.
Colorado
Colorado is world renowned for its skiing and snowboarding. The Rocky Mountains provide excellent snowfall every year and the terrain to challenge beginners or professional riders. There are many different attractions within Colorado to keep you occupied no matter the season or the temperature.
The summer months illustrate the beauty nestled deep in the Rocky Mountains, and many refer to the state as “nature’s playground”. The warmer months are perfect to explore the many national parks, such as the Mesa Verde National Park or the Garden of the Gods Park. Mesa Verde houses some of the most important archaeological digs in North America.
Visit Cliff Palace and see the seven hundred year old society that was built directly under a cliff for protection, and holds over two hundred rooms. Garden of the Gods holds immense beauty with different rock formations and is easily accessible for anyone who is willing to strap on their hiking boots. Many of the trails are wheelchair accessible and the cost to visit the park is free.
California
Everyone knows of California, it is one of the most infamous states in not only the country, but throughout the world. This is where all of the big celebrities seem to locate themselves as well as many of the Hollywood companies. There is much more to California than the media, and California can accompany anyone’s tastes. How many states do you know that will allow you to catch the early morning surf before you pack up and head into the mountains for a skiing adventure?
If you find yourself vacationing to California, one of the best destinations is the Los Angeles area. It holds the other Disney park, Disneyland. One could easily spend a few days immersed in their Disney Kingdom and truly enjoy themselves. Other high points of interest in the Los Angeles area are Malibu, Venice Beach, and Hollywood being a short drive away. There are many fine dining experiences, Hollywood history and pristine beaches within a short drive or walk.
California also houses some of the most amazing state parks the United States has to offer, the most famous being the Redwood National Park. The Redwood forest holds the largest trees anywhere in the world, and many of them are well over one thousand years old. They are heavily protected and visiting the Redwood National Park forces you to leave all of your technological baggage behind. There is spotty to no cell service or Wi-Fi coverage, and not a TV in sight.
Hawaii
If you were to ask anyone what their top three destinations to visit in the United States would be, chances are Hawaii would rank well within those statistics. Hawaii is known for their picture-perfect beaches, beautiful national parks, and the island themed lifestyle that invites relaxation and fun. Many people may be unaware, but Hawaii literally sprouted out of the ocean thanks to underwater volcanic activity.
There lays the world largest volcano, the Mauna Loa Volcano, which stands 13,677 feet tall. Couple the world’s tallest volcano with the world’s most active volcano (Kilauea), and you make up Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. So while everyone is doing a luau and sipping on their tequila sunrise on the pristine beaches of Hawaii, do keep in mind that is only a portion of the beauty to be seen within the state.
New York
New York City is the face of the United States; the Statue of Liberty welcomes everyone into the country as they cross the Atlantic Ocean. Many people do not realize that the state of New York is a relatively large state and holds many more wonders than the concrete jungle that so many people get lost in.
There are metropolis cities across the world, but none of them seem to be as busy or as fearless as New York City. Where the residents are rumored to be rude, arrogant people who will push and shove their way through any crowds (hint: they really do).
Niagara Falls is located in upstate New York and is a marvel to visit. The falls stand nearly two-thirds high, dropping over forty million gallons of water every minute. The falls themselves are not the only marvels here. In fact, the Niagara Falls state park is the oldest state park in the United States. It holds the Bridal Veil Falls, Cave of the Winds, as well as the Niagara Gorge Trail, some of the most exciting natural beauties to be found within New York State.
Fred Adler is a freelance writer passionate about traveling, vacation spots, Connecticut hotels and resorts. He also writes for Foxwoods Resorts; follow them on Twitter and Facebook.
