If you’re anything like me, the moment a vacation idea pops into your head, the planning frenzy begins. We all crave that perfect escape—a trip that leaves us refreshed, inspired, and maybe just a little bit exhausted from all the awesome things we did! But with 50 diverse destinations spread across the country, how do you narrow down which are truly the fun states to go to?
I’ve spent years exploring the United States, from the bustling city streets of the Northeast to the majestic, silent deserts of the Southwest, and I’ve learned that “fun” is relative. What excites a history buff might bore a surfer, and what thrills a hiker might terrify a city dweller.
That’s why I’ve compiled this comprehensive, in-depth guide. We’re going far beyond the usual tourist traps to identify the best states to visit in USA based on specific interests, ensuring your next vacation is tailored perfectly to your definition of a good time. Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, unparalleled natural beauty, or historic charm, get ready to discover the top states to visit in the US that promise maximum enjoyment.
Contents
- 1 Why Choosing the Right State Matters: Defining “Fun”
- 2 The Coasts and the Classics: East vs. West Showdowns
- 3 Adventure Awaits: States for the Thrill-Seekers and Nature Lovers
- 4 Southern Charm and Deep History: Unforgettable Experiences
- 5 Hidden Gems and Unexpected Delights: Cool States to Visit
- 6 The Northern Tier: Lakes, History, and Heartland Fun
- 7 Planning Your Epic Journey: Practical Tips for Visiting the Best States
- 8 Conclusion: Your Next Great American Road Trip Awaits
Why Choosing the Right State Matters: Defining “Fun”
Before we dive into the specific destinations, let’s talk about strategy. When people ask me which are the funnest states to visit, I always respond with a counter-question: “What do you want to experience?”
The USA is a magnificent tapestry of climates, cultures, and landscapes. A trip to Maine offers a completely different vibe than a trip to Hawaii. Success in vacation planning isn’t just about picking a famous landmark; it’s about choosing a geographical area whose core identity aligns with your travel goals. Are you looking for a week of pure relaxation, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a deep dive into American history?
Choosing the right location based on your interests is the crucial first step to ensuring your journey is one of the great states to visit rather than a geographical mismatch.
Tailoring Your Trip: Identifying Your Travel Style
To help you decide which of the cool states to visit next, let’s categorize the types of fun available:
- The Urban Explorer: You thrive on energy, culture, world-class dining, museums, and theater. You’re looking for states with massive metropolitan hubs (New York, Illinois, Massachusetts).
- The Nature Enthusiast/Adrenaline Junkie: Your idea of fun involves mountains, deserts, oceans, and challenging physical activity—hiking, skiing, kayaking, or climbing. (Colorado, Utah, Alaska).
- The Beach Bum/Relaxation Seeker: You need sand, sun, water activities, and a slow, leisurely pace. (Florida, Hawaii, California).
- The History and Culture Buff: You want to walk through time, visiting historic sites, experiencing regional music, and sampling authentic regional cuisine. (Louisiana, Virginia, South Carolina).
- The Road Tripper: Your fun is in the journey itself, crossing vast distances, stopping at unique roadside attractions, and seeing diverse landscapes change rapidly. (Texas, Arizona, California).
Once you identify which category you fall into, navigating the list of american states to visit becomes much simpler.
The Importance of Seasonal Planning
A critical factor often overlooked when selecting the best states to travel to is the time of year. Trying to ski in Colorado in July or sunbathe in Michigan in January is a recipe for disappointment.
- Summer (June – August): Excellent for mountain states (Colorado, Wyoming) where trails are open, and Northern states (Maine, Washington) where the weather is finally perfect.
- Fall (September – October): The absolute best time for New England (leaf-peeping) and the Pacific Northwest, offering comfortable temperatures and stunning scenery.
- Winter (November – March): Ideal for Southern states (Florida, Arizona) if you want to escape the cold, or mountain states (Utah, Colorado) for world-class snow sports.
- Spring (April – May): Perfect for historical tours in the Mid-Atlantic (Virginia) and exploring deserts (Arizona) before the scorching summer heat sets in.
Keeping seasonality in mind ensures that when you arrive in one of the cool states to visit in usa, it’s operating at its peak potential for your chosen activities.
The Coasts and the Classics: East vs. West Showdowns
When we talk about the top states to visit in the us, we often start with the places that have global name recognition. These classic destinations offer a dizzying array of attractions, often blending urban sophistication with stunning natural environments.
California: The Golden State of Endless Possibilities
If sheer variety defines fun, then California might just be the winner. This state is massive, offering everything from snowy mountains to scorching deserts, from world-class cities to iconic beaches. It truly is one of the best states to visit.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
California captures the imagination because you can literally surf in the morning and snowboard in the afternoon. Southern California (SoCal) offers the laid-back beach culture of San Diego, the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles, and the magical escapism of Disneyland. If you’re looking for things to do in united states that involve pop culture, Hollywood is a must-see.
Further north, you have the cultural powerhouse of San Francisco—home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and amazing food scenes. But don’t forget the natural wonder! Yosemite National Park offers some of the most spectacular granite cliffs and waterfalls on Earth, making it a critical stop for anyone seeking must see things in usa. The Central Coast, with its scenic Highway 1 drive (Big Sur), is a quintessential American experience.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Road Trip: Driving Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles (or vice versa).
- Nature: Hiking in Yosemite or exploring the stark beauty of Death Valley National Park.
- City Life: Exploring the diverse neighborhoods of L.A. or riding a cable car in San Francisco.
New York: Urban Thrills and Upstate Escapes
While many people think of New York State solely as New York City, that would be a huge disservice to this dynamic region. NYC is undeniably one of the cool places on the planet—a global center for finance, art, theater, and cuisine. If your idea of fun involves boundless energy and world-class attractions, New York City is unbeatable. Seeing a Broadway show or exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art are essential things to see in the us.
However, don’t overlook the rest of the state. Upstate New York offers a profound contrast. You can find tranquility in the Adirondacks, stunning natural power at Niagara Falls, and deep history in the Hudson Valley. This blend of hyper-urban excitement and serene nature makes New York one of the truly versatile states to visit.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
New York offers a perfect “two-vacations-in-one” option. You can spend four days overwhelmed by the vibrancy of Manhattan and then escape north to hike, kayak, or explore charming small towns surrounded by stunning fall foliage. This diversity solidifies its status among the top ten states to visit in america.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Culture: Catching a Broadway show and visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
- Nature: Visiting Niagara Falls or hiking in the Adirondack Mountains.
- Food: Experiencing the immense diversity of NYC’s culinary scene, from street carts to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Florida: Sunshine, Beaches, and Theme Park Mania
If your goal is pure, unadulterated vacation escapism, Florida is perhaps the quintessential example of the best states to vacation. Known as the Sunshine State, it delivers exactly what it promises: warm weather, stunning beaches (both Atlantic and Gulf Coasts), and the highest concentration of world-famous theme parks found anywhere.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
For families, Orlando is the capital of fun, home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and numerous other attractions. For those seeking adult fun, Miami offers electric nightlife, art deco architecture, and a vibrant Cuban-American culture. If you prefer natural beauty, the Everglades National Park offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, while the Florida Keys provide a laid-back, tropical atmosphere perfect for snorkeling and fishing.
Florida’s consistent climate and immense variety of entertainment options make it one of the fun states to go to year-round, especially during the harsh northern winters.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Family Fun: Spending a day (or three!) at one of the major Orlando theme parks.
- Relaxation: Driving down to Key West and enjoying the sunset celebration at Mallory Square.
- Nature: Taking an airboat ride through the Everglades to spot alligators.
Adventure Awaits: States for the Thrill-Seekers and Nature Lovers
For many of us, the ultimate fun involves fresh air, challenging terrain, and views that leave us speechless. If you define a good vacation by the miles you hike or the height of the mountains you climb, these cool states to visit are calling your name.
Colorado: Mountain Highs and Outdoor Bliss
Colorado is synonymous with the Rocky Mountains and outdoor adventure. It is undoubtedly one of the best states to visit if you are serious about hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The atmosphere here is generally energetic, health-conscious, and focused on embracing the rugged natural environment.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
In the winter, Colorado boasts some of the most famous ski resorts in the world, including Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge. In the summer, the snow melts to reveal thousands of miles of hiking trails and scenic drives. Denver and Boulder provide excellent urban hubs with craft breweries, vibrant music scenes, and easy access to the mountains.
The state’s natural wonders, like Rocky Mountain National Park, offer spectacular alpine tundra and wildlife viewing. For the road trip enthusiast, driving over high mountain passes provides breathtaking panoramas. Colorado’s commitment to outdoor recreation makes it one of the absolute funnest states to visit for active travelers.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Winter: Hitting the slopes at a world-class ski resort.
- Summer: Hiking a “14er” (a peak over 14,000 feet) or driving the scenic Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Culture: Exploring Denver’s dynamic RiNo Arts District.
Utah: Red Rocks and National Park Grandeur
Utah is a state of almost surreal beauty, dominated by magnificent red rock landscapes and an impressive concentration of protected lands. If your primary goal is to tick off bucket-list national parks, Utah is arguably the best state to travel in usa. It is home to the “Mighty Five” national parks: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
For the adventure traveler, Utah offers endless opportunities for hiking, canyoneering, and rock climbing. Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs and famous Narrows hike, is a geological marvel. Arches National Park, near Moab, showcases thousands of natural sandstone arches.
Beyond the desert, Northern Utah boasts the Wasatch Range, providing fantastic skiing near Salt Lake City. The cultural blend of thriving urban centers and deep connection to the pioneer past also adds a unique layer to the experience, making Utah one of the most rewarding states to visit in usa.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Hiking: Canyoneering in Zion or walking among the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon.
- Photography: Capturing the iconic Delicate Arch in Arches National Park at sunset.
- Road Trip: Driving the scenic routes connecting the Mighty Five parks.
Alaska: The Last Frontier of Wild Exploration
If you are seeking a vacation that feels truly epic and unlike anything else in the Lower 48, Alaska is waiting. It is the ultimate destination for wild, untamed fun. As the largest state by far, Alaska offers space, solitude, and wildlife experiences that are unmatched globally. It’s certainly one of the most unique fun states to go to.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Alaska is ideal for cruises, allowing you to see massive glaciers calving into the sea, or for land-based adventures focused on hiking, fishing, and viewing bears, moose, and whales in their natural habitat. Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, is a place of humbling scale and beauty.
While travel logistics can be more complex and expensive, the rewards—seeing the Northern Lights, exploring vast wilderness, and experiencing the unique culture of Anchorage or Juneau—are incomparable. If you want to see things to see in usa that feel truly remote, put Alaska high on your list.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Wildlife: Taking a guided tour in Denali to spot grizzly bears and caribou.
- Natural Wonders: Viewing massive tidewater glaciers from a boat tour.
- Winter (Seasonal): Chasing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).
Southern Charm and Deep History: Unforgettable Experiences
The South offers a distinct brand of fun—one steeped in history, defined by hospitality, and flavored by world-renowned culinary traditions. These fun states to visit provide rich cultural experiences alongside beautiful landscapes.
Louisiana: Jazz, Culture, and Culinary Delights
Louisiana is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Centered around the magnetic pull of New Orleans, this state offers a cultural experience unlike any other in the nation. It is a fantastic choice if your fun involves music, history, and food.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and boasts the historic French Quarter, famous for Bourbon Street, wrought-iron balconies, and endless music venues. The city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and American influences creates a distinct atmosphere you must experience. We’re talking about world-class Creole and Cajun cuisine—gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po’boys—that alone makes Louisiana one of the best states to go to.
Beyond the city, you can explore Cajun Country, take swamp tours to see alligators, and visit historic plantations. Louisiana offers a profound cultural education alongside its hedonistic delights.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Food: Eating beignets at Café Du Monde and enjoying a classic Louisiana seafood boil.
- Music: Catching live jazz on Frenchmen Street or in preservation hall.
- Nature: Taking a guided swamp tour outside of New Orleans.
Lỗi tạo hình ảnh (Quota/Auth). Mô tả: “A lively street scene in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, featuring wrought-iron balconies, street musicians playing jazz, and people enjoying the unique atmosphere. This represents one of the funnest states to visit for cultural immersion.”.
South Carolina: Historic Beauty and Coastal Relaxation
South Carolina beautifully balances historic preservation with modern coastal enjoyment. It is one of the great states to visit if you appreciate architecture, Southern gardens, and pristine beaches without the overwhelming commercialism of some other coastal states.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Charleston is the crown jewel—a city consistently ranked among the best in the US. Its cobblestone streets, Rainbow Row of colorful houses, and deep history (including Fort Sumter) offer endless exploration. You can spend days simply walking through the historic district, admiring the architecture and enjoying exceptional Southern food.
The coast also offers fantastic beach towns like Myrtle Beach (for high-energy resort fun) and Hilton Head Island (for quiet, upscale relaxation). The blend of history, culinary excellence, and accessible beaches makes South Carolina a highly enjoyable and relaxing destination.
Must-Do Experiences:
- History: Touring Fort Sumter and walking the Battery in Charleston.
- Relaxation: Spending a day relaxing on the beaches of Kiawah Island or Hilton Head.
- Cuisine: Sampling authentic Lowcountry cuisine (shrimp and grits).
Texas: Everything is Bigger, Including the Fun
Texas is a country unto itself. It’s geographically vast, culturally diverse, and offers a tremendous variety of experiences, making it one of the most expansive and fun states to go to. Whether you’re interested in space exploration, authentic BBQ, or live music, Texas delivers on scale.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Texas offers distinct city experiences. Austin is the live music capital of the world and a haven for creatives and foodies. San Antonio boasts the historic Alamo and the beautiful River Walk. Dallas and Houston are modern metropolises offering world-class museums, shopping, and, in Houston’s case, the NASA Space Center.
For those who crave the Old West, parts of West Texas offer rugged landscapes and authentic ranch experiences. Big Bend National Park provides incredible, remote hiking along the Rio Grande. If you are looking for things to do close to us that encompass history, modernity, and scale, Texas is a prime contender.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Culture: Spending an evening watching live music in Austin.
- History: Visiting the Alamo and walking the San Antonio River Walk.
- Science: Exploring the Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Lỗi tạo hình ảnh (Quota/Auth). Mô tả: “A dynamic shot of the Milky Way galaxy visible over the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park, Texas, emphasizing the remote beauty and astronomical opportunities in this great state to visit.”.
Hidden Gems and Unexpected Delights: Cool States to Visit
While the classic destinations are great, sometimes the real fun is found off the beaten path. These states might not always make the “Top 10” lists for sheer visitor volume, but they offer distinct, vibrant, and genuinely cool experiences that make them some of the best states in america to visit.
Oregon: Pacific Northwest Nirvana
Oregon is the epitome of the Pacific Northwest aesthetic: lush, green, outdoorsy, and wonderfully quirky. Centered around Portland, a city famous for its food cart scene, craft beer, and “Keep Portland Weird” ethos, Oregon is undeniably one of the cool states to visit.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Oregon’s diversity is its strength. You can explore the dramatic, rugged coastline (Cannon Beach, with its Haystack Rock, is a must-see) and then drive inland to the high desert of Eastern Oregon. The Willamette Valley is home to world-class wineries, rivaling Napa Valley but with a more laid-back vibe.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Columbia River Gorge offers stunning waterfalls (like Multnomah Falls), and Mount Hood provides year-round recreation. Oregon appeals to those who enjoy a blend of sophisticated urban culture (coffee, books, independent shops) and immediate access to pristine nature. It is a top choice for those seeking things to do in usa that lean towards nature and sustainable tourism.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Nature: Visiting the stunning Oregon Coast and Multnomah Falls.
- Urban Fun: Exploring Portland’s food cart pods and craft breweries.
- Scenery: Driving around Crater Lake National Park, one of the deepest lakes in the world.
Arizona: Desert Landscapes and Southwestern Culture
Arizona is more than just the Grand Canyon, though that natural wonder is certainly the centerpiece and a key reason it’s considered one of the must see places in the united states. Arizona offers a unique blend of Native American history, luxury desert resorts, and stunning geological formations.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Beyond the Grand Canyon (which deserves at least a full day), Arizona’s fun includes the unique energy of Sedona, known for its spiritual vortexes, red rock hiking, and thriving art community. Scottsdale and Phoenix offer upscale dining, spas, and golf courses, making it a perfect winter getaway for those escaping the snow.
The state’s connection to the Southwest is palpable in its architecture, cuisine, and history. Exploring historic mining towns or visiting the unique slot canyons near Page (like Antelope Canyon) provides incredible photographic opportunities and adventure. Arizona offers a genuinely unique landscape, making it one of the coolest states to visit in the us.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Iconic Sight: Spending time at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
- Spiritual Retreat: Hiking and exploring the vortexes in Sedona.
- Photography: Visiting the surreal beauty of Antelope Canyon (requires a guided tour).
Lỗi tạo hình ảnh (Quota/Auth). Mô tả: “A person standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon during a vibrant sunset, showing the immense scale and colorful layers of the canyon walls. This illustrates the awe-inspiring nature of the things to see in usa.”.
Hawaii: Tropical Paradise Found
If your definition of a fun state to go to involves exotic beaches, volcanic landscapes, and Polynesian culture, then Hawaii is the ultimate destination. It stands alone geographically and culturally, offering a truly tropical escape without leaving the country.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Hawaii is actually a collection of uniquely different islands (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island), each offering a specialized type of fun. Oahu offers Pearl Harbor history and the urban buzz of Honolulu/Waikiki. Maui is known for its stunning road to Hana and high-end resorts. The Big Island features active volcanoes and dramatic black sand beaches. Kauai is the greenest, perfect for hiking and secluded relaxation.
The opportunity to snorkel, surf, learn to hula, and explore active lava flows makes Hawaii a once-in-a-lifetime trip and arguably the most relaxing of the top states to visit in the us.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Culture: Attending a traditional luau.
- Nature: Driving the Road to Hana on Maui or exploring Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.
- Ocean Fun: Snorkeling or surfing lessons in Waikiki.
The Northern Tier: Lakes, History, and Heartland Fun
We can’t ignore the vibrant and often underrated states across the Midwest and upper Northeast. These regions offer incredible beauty, rich history, and a distinctly American experience.
Michigan: Great Lakes and Automotive History
Michigan is defined by water. Bordered by four of the five Great Lakes, it offers thousands of miles of shoreline, making it an incredible destination for boating, fishing, and freshwater beach-going.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
The Upper Peninsula (the U.P.) is a wilderness paradise, offering spectacular sights like the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The Lower Peninsula boasts vibrant cities like Detroit, which is undergoing an incredible revitalization and is the historical heart of the American automotive industry. You can explore world-class museums here, including the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
Traverse City and the surrounding wine region offer beautiful scenery and excellent local produce. Michigan is one of the best states to visit for travelers who love quaint towns, beautiful lighthouses, and accessible nature.
Must-Do Experiences:
- Nature: Kayaking or boating along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
- History: Visiting the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn.
- Islands: Taking the ferry to Mackinac Island, where cars are banned.
Massachusetts: Revolutionary History and Coastal Elegance
Massachusetts is a cornerstone of American history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the nation’s founding. Boston is a city where history is literally woven into the sidewalks (The Freedom Trail), but it also boasts world-class universities and a fantastic seafood scene.
Why it’s a Fun State to Go To:
Boston is one of the most walkable and historically significant cities, offering endless things to see in usa. Beyond the city, you have Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket, offering classic New England coastal charm, stunning beaches, and delicious clam chowder and lobster rolls.
The blend of intellectual history, accessible coastal relaxation, and vibrant student culture makes Massachusetts an incredibly rewarding state to explore. It’s certainly one of the best states to travel to if you love Colonial history combined with modern sophistication.
Must-Do Experiences:
- History: Walking the Freedom Trail in Boston.
- Coastal Life: Visiting Cape Cod for beaches, lighthouses, and seafood.
- Culture: Exploring the museums and universities around Cambridge.
Planning Your Epic Journey: Practical Tips for Visiting the Best States
We’ve covered some of the most dynamic and fun states to go to, but a great trip requires great planning. To ensure your visit to the 10 best states to visit in usa is seamless, let’s review some essential logistics.
Budgeting for Fun States to Go To
The cost of travel varies wildly depending on the state and the type of fun you seek.
- High-Cost States (NYC, Hawaii, California): Expect high prices for accommodation, dining, and transportation, especially in major cities. Strategies include staying outside the main tourist hubs, utilizing public transit, and focusing on free attractions (parks, beaches).
- Mid-Cost States (Colorado, Oregon, Florida): Costs are moderate, but activities (ski passes, theme park tickets) can add up quickly. Booking activity passes in bundles can save money.
- Lower-Cost States (Texas, Louisiana, Arizona): While major cities are still pricey, the overall cost of living and regional travel (especially gas and dining outside tourist traps) tends to be lower, making your travel dollars stretch further.
Always allocate extra budget for spontaneous fun—that unexpected souvenir, the amazing local restaurant you stumbled upon, or the last-minute museum ticket.
Logistics: Transportation and Accommodations
When visiting these diverse states to go to, your transportation strategy is key:
- Fly-In, Stay-Put (NYC, Boston, Honolulu): If you are focusing solely on a major metropolitan area or a single island, relying on public transit, ride-sharing, or inter-island flights is the most efficient choice. Renting a car in Manhattan or Waikiki is often expensive and unnecessary.
- The Road Trip Necessity (California, Utah, Texas): For states defined by their vast distances and national parks, a rental car is mandatory. Ensure you book well in advance, especially if you need a specialized vehicle (like an SUV for rugged terrain).
- Accommodation Flexibility: The best states to visit offer a range of lodging. Don’t be afraid to mix it up: a boutique hotel in the city, a rustic cabin near a national park, and a rental home on the coast. Booking accommodations close to the specific type of fun you want (e.g., near the ski lift, or near the historic district) saves commuting time.
Conclusion: Your Next Great American Road Trip Awaits
We’ve explored a dozen incredible destinations, proving that the United States is bursting with opportunities for fun, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you choose the urban energy of New York, the red rock adventures of Utah, the coastal chill of Florida, or the historic charm of South Carolina, you are guaranteed an unforgettable journey.
I truly hope this guide has inspired you to start marking maps and booking flights. Remember, the fun states to go to are the ones that align perfectly with your personal travel style. Don’t just follow the crowd; choose the destination that speaks loudest to your sense of adventure. Get out there, explore, and create those lifelong memories. Happy travels!