Popular U.S. Destinations: They’re All Over

Each year, more than 50,000,000 people travel to the United States from points around the world. This inbound travel is dispersed across urban centers, national parks, beaches, vineyards, entertainment capitals, and homes of historic landmarks.

According to Travel + Leisure’s 2007 readers’ survey, two U.S. cities were among the world’s Top 10 Favorites: New York (6) and San Francisco (9). Representing the nation’s coasts, these cities are perennial favorites thanks to their world-renown reputations for being hubs of culture, arts and entertainment, history, style, and cuisine.

New York City
Comprised of five boroughs, New York City truly has everything one could imagine, and to experience it in-person leaves an indelible mark. From Times Square to Broadway to the corner deli, your digital camera will be full within hours upon arrival. It’s no wonder that this city, once known as New Amsterdam, is regarded by many to be the capital of the world. A lofty title to live up to, but NYC does so with ease. Musts include a ride on the subway, a visit to the Museum of Modern Art, and catching a musical matinee.

San Francisco
As for San Francisco, this relatively small city offers travelers an urban vibe mixed with a very earth-friendly sensibility. As the city strives to be the greenest in America, you as the traveler will find this influence in most everything you do. What’s more, there’s a lot to see. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz to Golden Gate Park, from North Beach to Haight-Ashbury, you can experience it all in a few days, with the hope that you had yet a few more to spend. Indeed, the City by the Bay may only be 7×7 miles, but it packs a punch!

The American City
As NYC and San Francisco prove, America’s cities are a diverse group, offering travelers a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for history (Charleston, SC) or fun in the sun (San Diego, CA), groundbreaking architecture (Chicago, IL), paradise (Lihue, Kauai), or Shakespeare (Ashland, OR), the United States has it to offer.

Looking for entertainment capitals? Then look no further than Los Angeles and Las Vegas. These two cities, like those aforementioned, rely heavily on tourism. As a result, travelers benefit from their efforts to stay current, relevant, and accommodating.

Parks, Landmarks, and More
In addition to the country’s famed and beloved cities, there are also the specific draws that they have, such as national parks, beaches, and landmarks. As music fans flock to Cleveland, OH, or perhaps Elvis’s Graceland, other travelers may choose to visit Orlando or Anaheim to experience the magic of Disney World and Land.

At the same time, nature lovers make annual sojourns to Yosemite and Yellowstone, while sports fans make yearly trips to popular venues, such as Augusta National, the chosen arena for the Final Four, and the stadium hosting the Super Bowl.

The Bottom Line
Traveling in America is a true thrill, one that locals and visitors alike aim to take on with abandon. This is a country where the Painted Desert exists along with Wall Street. Where small-town charm meets big-city panache.

In the end, perhaps the most difficult choice is choosing your destination. Among those that are popular, there are just as many that are lesser-known, but just as beloved. Find your path and have a blast!

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