20 Great US Touristy Attractions…Part 1
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
11. Southern California Beaches
Southern California is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. My favorites include Laguna Beach, Crystal Cove State Park, Huntington Beach, Manhattan Beach, Santa Monica State Beach, and Will Rogers State Beach. One of the best ways to explore a variety of beautiful beaches in a single day (while avoiding traffic and parking hassles) is by taking the 22 mile ride along the South Bay Bicycle Trail. On this path, you will pass through Redondo, Hermosa, Venice, and Santa Monica Beach. This is the best bike path I have ever completed – it is scenic, flat, with plenty of fun beach stops along the way.
Tip: Don’t miss out on a ride on the Santa Monica Rollercoaster!
Cost: Free!12. The Field Museum – Chicago, Illinois
The Field Museum in Chicago is an impressive sight – one of the top museums in the world to add to your bucket list. Highlights include a world-class dinosaur exhibit, including “Sue”the most complete and preserved T-Rex fossil ever found. The Inside Ancient Egypt Exhibit is also a must see as it includes one of the largest collection of mummies. Another bonus is the location on beautiful Lake Michigan.
From the museum, you can directly access the Chicago Lakefront Path, which runs 18 miles along Lake Michigan, while passing through major attractions such as Navy Pier, Soldier Field, The Shedd Aquarium, Alder Planetarium, beaches, and more.
Tip: Bring with or rent a bike and spend the whole day exploring the many attractions found downtown! This is a great way to get around downtown without paying for parking.
Cost: Adult: $15, Child (ages 3-11): $10, Senior (65 years +): $12 Student (w/ valid ID): $12 (Basic admission prices).Hours: 9:00am-5:00pm
Address:1400 S Lake Shore Dr Chicago, IL 60605
13. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk – Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach is the ideal summer destination. A beautiful boardwalk spanning 3 gorgeous miles along the Atlantic Ocean is the perfect place for a bike ride or stroll. The boardwalk is clean, beautiful, and most importantly features a separate biking and walking path! One of the best features of the boardwalk is that it is lit up at night, which makes it feel safe to take a nice night stroll along the ocean.
The boardwalk is lined with hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The bronze Neptune statue is a great place for photos! During the summer months various concerts, attractions, and events will keep you entertained.
Tip: Visit during the spring months if you are looking for less crowds and cooler temperatures.
14. Zephyr Cove Cruises – Zephyr Cove, Nevada
This Lake Tahoe cruise aboard the M.S. Dixie II features tremendous views of Emerald Bay, one of the most scenic places in the US. The largest cruise vessel in Lake Tahoe has also been rated the “Best Cruise in Nevada” by Nevada Magazine. A relaxing cruise where you get to take beautiful photographs while also learning about the history of Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay.
Tip: Don’t forget to bring a jacket on-board even during the summer months – it gets cool on the water!
Cost: Adult – $47 Child, (Age 3-11) – $10Hours: Click here to see the cruise schedule.
Address: 760 U.S. Hwy 50 Zephyr Cove, NV 89448
15. CliffWalk – Newport, Rhode Island
Most people know about the famous Newport Mansions, the extravagant early 18th century Vanderbilt mansions which are now National Historic Landmarks and popular tourist attractions. However, if you only tour the opulent mansion tours you are missing out on Cliffwalk, a beautiful 3 mile walk featuring incredible views of the ocean and rocky coastline.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring with a camera, and visit either during the morning or early evening for the best photos!
Cost: Free!Address: Memorial Blvd & Eustis Ave Newport, RI 02840
