Every U.S. state’s top destination for 2022
Make Plans to Travel This New Year
The new year brings a slew of hopeful resolutions with it, but perhaps a better way to look at the year is mapping out new destinations to travel to. With many countries still under numerous restrictions because of COVID, why not look for travel options closer to home? Here’s our roundup for the best destinations in each state for 2022 travel.
Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach offers a great beach vacation. A watersports lover’s paradise, Orange Beach has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Rated one of the top beaches in Alabama, there’s also an amphitheater with live music during the warmer months, shopping, and a fishing pier.
Juneau, Alaska
A popular cruising port, Juneau is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Hike to see the Mendenhall Glacier or local waterfalls – just be careful of the local wildlife.
Sedona, Arizona
Whether you’re in town to visit the wineries, relax at the spa or hike the famous trailheads, Sedona is rising in popularity. Sign up for a Jeep tour to learn the history of the area while also getting to do a little off-roading.
Hot Springs, Arkansas
Take a soak in the healing hot springs of Bathhouse Row in Hot Springs, Arkansas. But if you’re looking for something a little more adrenaline-inducing on your agenda, there’s also Magic Springs which is a local amusement park with rides and waterslides.
Los Angeles, California
Get a behind-the-scenes tour from one of the well-known studios like Paramount or Warner Bros., drive by the iconic Chinese Theatre, venture out to the coast or spend the day riding rides at Disneyland. There’s so much to do in Los Angeles that you may just find yourself planning your next trip back before you even leave.
Denver, Colorado
Don’t skimp on Denver, Colorado – even if you’re planning on just passing through on your way to nearby ski resorts. With plenty of delicious food stops, breweries, and a thriving art scene, you’ll want to spend a couple of days here. Be sure to check out a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater too.
Bridgeport, Connecticut
A quintessential New England seaport town, Bridgeport gives off the feeling of a small town while actually being the fifth largest city in New England. This may be due to all the parks in the area.
Wilmington, Delaware
Home to one of the United States’ famous 19-century families – the du Ponts. You can learn all about their legacy at the Hagley Museum or visit their home – the Nemours Estate which also has an extensive garden.
Orlando, Florida
The theme park capital of the world has tons of thrills for adventure-seekers. Enjoy family-fun vacations for kids of all ages at places like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and Legoland. Plus with seasonal offerings at each of these parks, there’s sure to be something new and exciting with each visit.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is steeped in Southern charm with its moss-covered trees and historic architecture. There are even horse-drawn carriages through the town squares. Make sure to stop by Green Truck Pub for a cheeseburger and grab some homemade candy on River Street.
Maui, Hawaii
A tropical paradise with an inviting local culture, Maui has a lot to offer. West Maui has plenty of fun-in-the-sun activities as well as panoramic scenery – as if you just stepped into a postcard. Don’t forget to order the Hula pie before leaving though.
Boise, Idaho
Often thought of as a cheaper Portland – Boise used to be frequently overlooked by travelers. But now the secret’s out. Enjoy hiking, skiing, rafting and an overall diverse downtown with delicious cuisine.
Chicago, Illinois
A famous skyline filled with museums, distinct neighborhoods and great food, Chicago has plenty to keep you entertained. Foodies need to try the big four when it comes to deep-dish pizza – Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, Pequod’s and Uno’s – to decide which reigns supreme.
Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
National Parks have been on the rise in recent years, but many have started having overcrowding issues. Fortunately, Indiana Dunes National Park is still fairly under-the-radar when it comes to visitors.
Altoona, Iowa
Located just outside of Des Moines, Altoona is home to the famous Adventureland Park as well as outlets, a casino and a racing track.
Lawrence, Kansas
Home to the University of Kansas, Lawrence is also well-known for its wetlands – popular among birdwatchers, state park and museums. Visit the KU Natural History Museum for an up-close look at dinosaur fossils and insects.
Louisville, Kentucky
A big city with a small-town feel, Louisville is an underrated destination. Most well-known as the Home for the Kentucky Derby, there’s plenty of other activities – like the Louisville Slugger Museum and local Bourbon distilleries – dotted throughout the city to keep you entertained throughout the year.
Kentucky has its own Bourbon Trail and for those in the know, be sure to plan a special trip to Bardstown Bourbon which is only about 45 miles outside the city.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Domestic travel has seen an uptick since the pandemic began, and New Orleans has topped many people’s vacation lists. Filled with music, almost weekly festivals, great food and an overall welcoming community, it’s easy to let the good times roll here.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Located on Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor is often the jumping-off point for those wanting to visit Acadia National Park. But did you know it’s also a popular cruise port? With plenty of delicious seafood and the look of a quintessential New England town, it’s easy to see why people flock to this destination.
Annapolis, Maryland
Boaters will love the quaint city of Annapolis, Maryland. Once the nation’s capital, Annapolis is loaded with history and even home to the Naval Academy.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
One of the country’s most scenic coastal drives is along the Old King’s Highway leading to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Here visitors can enjoy the beauty of New England and get their fill on fresh, local seafood.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Known as being the best college town in the state, Ann Arbor is littered with shops, restaurants and an overall upbeat, hopeful atmosphere. Avid golfers will rejoice at lush nearby greens too.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Making up half of the “Twin Cities”, Minneapolis is best known for its parks, lakes – there are 1,000 within the metro area alone, art scene and museums. Hop on a segway tour to explore each of the city’s distinct neighborhoods.
Biloxi, Mississippi
A popular Spring Break destination, Biloxi is well-known for its beach, casinos, lighthouse and local parks. Spend your days soaking up the sun, cruising under the Biloxi Bay Bridge or biking around Bethel Mountain.
St. Louis, Missouri
Foodies rejoice at the chance to visit St. Louis. But you don’t even have to be in the know, since Lip Smacking Foodie Tours has recently expanded to the city – doing all the hard work for you. Visitors can also enjoy the sights of the Gateway Arch, ride a replica paddlewheeler down the Mississippi River and make a stop at the famous Missouri Botanical Gardens.
Glacier National Park, Montana
National Park tourism is on the rise, but did you know that there are certain days where you can get in free to these national treasures? Schedule your trip to Glacier National Park and drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road – just be sure the road has opened for the season before hopping in your car.
Omaha, Nebraska
History buffs will love the pioneer chronicles of the city. Once a stop for Lewis and Clark on their journey West, Omaha is also known for its Old Market, botanical garden and art museum. Make sure to meet OMAR the troll under the Bob Pedestrian Bridge.
Las Vegas, Nevada
The Las Vegas strip is ever-changing to keep up with the growing demand for the latest and greatest. It’s now a sports-lovers paradise and with so much popularity, there are even talks of building a second airport.
Mount Washington, New Hampshire
Acclaimed as being the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, Mount Washington offers an array of outdoor activities throughout the year. Enjoy leaf-peeping in the fall, skiing in the winter, and hiking or biking in spring and summer. However just be sure to plan for all types of weather while on the mountain as it is often unpredictable.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Atlantic City has seen a rejuvenation from the pandemic. With more people traveling locally, the area is once again becoming a bustling destination with its iconic boardwalk and casinos.
Carlsbad, New Mexico
A top destination for families, Carlsbad Caverns is truly a unique destination with its subterranean caves. But there’s more to the area than just the national park, be sure to check out nearby Sitting Bull Falls and take a trip back in time to the Fiesta Drive-In Movie Theatre.
New York City, New York
A prominent U.S. destination for domestic and international travelers alike, New York City is the ultimate melting pot of the United States. There’s plenty to do whether your just in town for a long layover or an entire week.
Sylva, North Carolina
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Sylva is a budding destination in Western North Carolina. Follow along the Jackson County Ale Trail, hike to see the highest waterfall east of the Rockies – Whitewater Falls, or stroll down Main Street for a leisurely day of shopping.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
Known best for its Painted Canyon, Theodore Roosevelt National Park has stunning vistas. You can even visit the Maltese Cross Cabin where President Roosevelt once lived.
Cleveland, Ohio
Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cleveland is a music lover’s paradise with its Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The West Side Market is always worth the stop for delicious eats and the house from “A Christmas Story” is a fun walk-through.
Tulsa, Oklahoma
If you’re into Art Deco, Tulsa needs to be on your bucket list. The city is also home to 39 Native American tribes and is located along the iconic Route 66.
Portland, Oregon
The Rose City is an eclectic blend of cultures, cuisine and natural beauty. And the locals love their unique outlook, branding the city with the slogan “Keep Portland Weird”.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home of the delicious Philly Cheesesteaks and Liberty Bell, Philadelphia is steeped in American history and good food. Get your fill at Reading Terminal and then reenact “Rocky” on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Newport, Rhode Island
If you have a love of old homes, take a tour down Bellevue Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island to see some of the most exquisite mansions from the Gilded Age. Or stay at the famous Breakers hotel – former residence of the Vanderbilts.
Charleston, South Carolina
Nestled in the Lowcountry, the Holy City gives visitors a chance to relax in Southern luxury. Kayak along Shem Creek, eat your weight in fresh seafood or shop til you drop along King Street.
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is getting ready to celebrate its 80th anniversary and still draws millions of visitors each year. Kids can check out the Junior Ranger programs, or make your way to nearby Sylvan Lake, Crazy Horse or Deadwood.
Nashville, Tennessee
The Music City is celebrating 2022 with iconic anniversaries and new openings to entice travelers. Take a walk down Broadway and catch a live show at one of the honky-tonks, or take a step back in time as you walk through a replica of the Parthenon.
Dallas, Texas
Dallas has so many attractions that you might not know how to fit them all in to one trip. But be sure not to miss out on the Perot Museum of Nature and Science or The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
Zion National Park, Utah
A fan-favorite among National Park goers, Zion National Park consistently ranks as one of the most visited parks in the U.S. Because of this there’s even a new time-entry ticketing system to help alleviate some of the traffic going into the park.
Stowe, Vermont
An ideal destination among skiers, Stowe is great for vacationing any time of the year. Vail Resorts acquired the area in 2017 and now skiers can opt for the Epic Pass to experience multiple mountains in one season ticketing program.
Stowe, Vermont
An ideal destination among skiers, Stowe is great for vacationing any time of the year. Vail Resorts acquired the area in 2017 and now skiers can opt for the Epic Pass to experience multiple mountains in one season ticketing program.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Wanting to see beautiful fall foliage without all the crowds of New England? Shenandoah National Park is the ideal escape. There are 500 miles of trails – with over 100 miles being part of the famous Appalachian Trail.
Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park is truly unique in that it features three separate ecosystems spread across one million acres. Here you can walk through a rainforest and then see a glacier sitting astride a mountain, or walk down to the rugged coastline that the Northwest is known for.
Charleston, West Virginia
The capital of West Virginia, Charleston has world-class whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking trails and more. Relax under the stars at the planetarium or get your fill at the Downtown Capitol Market.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
A City of Festivals, the people of Milwaukee are just looking to have a good time. The city is also known for its breweries – as its baseball team is even named the Brewers – and the Harley Davidson Museum.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Situated in the middle of three popular ski resorts, Jackson Hole is also home to a National Elk Refuge and is a great entry point into Yellowstone National Park. Take a snowmobiling trip in the winter to see Old Faithful, and you might even see a bison casually passing you by.