Exploring the vast expanse of the United States could take a lifetime and still leave plenty of stones unturned. To help you decide where to start and experience the most breathtaking landscapes and charming towns the country has to offer, our curated list spans from the red rocks of Sedona to high-altitude peaks in Breckenridge and the sun-drenched shores of Key West. Prepare to be inspired by this collection of the nation's most icononic getaways.

1. Sedona, Arizona

The stark contrast between the deep orange "red rocks" and the evergreen brush makes the landscape of Sedona truly unique. Whether you prefer adventure sports or taking a walk along the hundreds of trails, you’ll be able to get up close to the stunning topographical features. Clamber to the top of Cathedral Rock for sunset or have a picnic at the Sedona Airport Overlook to appreciate some of the best scenery in the US from above. These two spots are also regarded as vortex sites, which are areas that have uplifting and healing energies.

If you want to make your visit to Sedona part of a longer road trip, drive through Arizona starting in Phoenix and ending at Grand Canyon National Park (the South Rim is only 2.5 hours from Sedona!).

2. Moab, Utah

It’s easy deciding to visit Moab, Utah, when you learn about its central location to five incredible national parks: Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches. Known as the Mighty 5, these national parks in Utah are some of the best places to visit in the USA for their outdoor activities. Visitors can go hiking, biking, river rafting, ATVing, canyoneering, horseback riding, stargazing, and so much more. To fully experience all the parks, their respective landmarks, and the city of Moab, we recommend renting a car and visiting at least a week. If you have less time, just choose the parks that interest you most and take your time exploring.

3. Fredericksburg, Texas

Named one of the country's most romantic small towns by CNN Travel, Fredericksburg is about an hour and a half drive from both San Antonio and Austin. This charming town is best known for its German heritage. The first immigrants settled in Central Texas in 1846 and much of their legacy remains. You can eat a bratwurst at Friedhelm’s Bavarian Inn, stroll through historic buildings on Main Street, and end the evening with a stein at Artdolf Biergarten. However, beer isn’t the only drink of choice here. Fredericksburg is the heart of Texas Wine Country with more than 75 local wineries and vineyards, including 10+ tasting rooms in the downtown Main Street area.

4. Breckenridge, Colorado

Although most commonly associated with skiing and snowboarding, Breckenridge has so much more to offer. Spring brings colorful pops of purple lupines, marsh marigolds, and scarlet gilia across the meadows and hills. The fall turns the trees golden and the air crisp. Whether you prefer hiking through the Rocky Mountains, cooling off at Higgles Ice Cream from the summer heat, or getting cozy in the historic downtown, Breckenridge is one of the best places to visit in the USA year-round. Fly to Denver International Airport, then rent a car to get to Breckenridge and around.

5. Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

About half an hour's drive from Portland, Oregon, lies the incredibly scenic Columbia River Gorge. Stretching 80 miles and forming a natural border between Oregon and Washington, this canyon is a lush paradise of Douglas firs and cascading water. Its crown jewel, Multnomah Falls, is the tallest year-round waterfall in the state, plummeting 620 feet. The falls' two distinct tiers are famously framed by the man-made Benson Bridge, creating an iconic vista that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list.

6. Yosemite National Park, California

Another one of the best US national parks is Yosemite in California. With nearly 750,000 acres to roam, this park is brimming with natural landmarks — take in the view of Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point, feel small under the towering sequoias of Mariposa Grove, and, if you’re really adventurous, climb Half Dome. The 14- to 17-mile trek (depending on the trail you take) isn’t for the faint of heart though, featuring nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain and a final 400-foot ascent using steel cables to reach the summit.

To get to Yosemite National Park, fly into Fresno Yosemite Airport and rent a car to arrive at your destination.

7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

If you’re looking for a relaxing staycation in the mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the top contender. A little over three hours from Nashville — and known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains — Gatlinburg is full of striking landscapes. You can see the mountains in every direction from the Gatlinburg Space Needle, a ride on the SkyLift, or the SkyBridge. You can also explore the historic side of the mountain town, with preserved cabins from the 1800s, an old mill, and a one-room schoolhouse. Otherwise, spend your time on countless hiking trails, with bubbling streams, waterfalls, and wildlife (including black bears).

8. Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks (often abbreviated to OBX) in North Carolina is one of the best beach destinations in the US, not just for friends or couples, but also for families. These barrier islands boast more than 200 miles of pristine beaches, not yet overdeveloped for tourism. So much so, that you can even see wild horses in Corolla. You can take an official 4WD tour to find these untamed beauties, or enjoy the other family-friendly activities on offer, such as surfing, camping, swimming, watching for dolphins, visiting historic lighthouses, and seeing the Wright Brothers Memorial. This is where the Wright brothers had their first 12 seconds of flight!

9. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a narrow 65-mile peninsula in Massachusetts that’s dotted with charming beach towns. Each one has its own charms, gorgeous sands, and some of the freshest seafood in the US, making it a must-visit destination for foodies. It’ll be hard to find a restaurant without at least one seafood item on the menu, so prepare to have your fill of fried clams, tender lobster tail, and fresh fish prepared in any way imaginable. Indulge in outdoor eateries with views of the water, explore the beautiful architecture of New England homes, and kayak or boat through sparkling Cape Cod Bay.

10. Key West, Florida

Celebrities, creatives, and visitors alike are drawn to this sunny paradise. With its indescribable sunset, laid-back attitude, and turquoise waters, it’s no surprise that Key West is one of the coolest place to visit in the US. You can tour Ernest Hemingway’s home-turned-museum, stand at the southernmost tip of mainland USA, and spend endless days enjoying water sports or lounging on sun-drenched shores.

Final thoughts: The best vacation spots in America

While big names like New York City, Miami, and Chicago get most of the buzz as the coolest places to visit in the US, we think there are plenty of other (less-crowded) destinations to add to your bucket list. So whether you want to hit the wine trail in Fredericksburg, Texas, or relax in the coastal serenity of the Outer Banks, you're bound to find a spot here that checks all your boxes.