Top 10s

5 min read

What to Do in the USA: Top 10 Activities for Travelers

Contributors

Steph Skevington

Co-founder, Butter

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The USA offers a wide variety of activities, from exploring famous national parks to experiencing bustling city life.

Whether you're drawn to natural beauty or urban adventures, here are 10 must-do activities for your next trip to the USA.

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1. Explore the Grand Canyon (Arizona)

The Grand Canyon is an iconic natural wonder, offering spectacular views and numerous hiking trails. Carved by the Colorado River, it’s a bucket-list destination for many.

Aerial view of Horseshoe Bend in Arizona, showcasing the dramatic red sandstone cliffs and the meandering Colorado River under an overcast sky.

Why Go:

One of the most famous national parks in the world.
Options for hiking, photography, or helicopter tours.

Top Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset to experience the best lighting and fewer crowds.

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2. Visit Walt Disney World (Orlando, Florida)

Walt Disney World is a magical destination for families and theme park lovers. It includes four main parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.

Close-up view of a fairytale castle with blue spires and ornate architecture, glowing under the golden sunlight against a clear blue sky.

Why Go:

Thrilling rides and immersive experiences.
Great for all ages, with a mix of entertainment and dining options.

Top Tip: Book FastPasses in advance to avoid long waits.

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3. Experience Times Square (New York City)

Times Square is the vibrant centre of New York City, known for its billboards, bright lights, and constant energy. It's a must-see spot for tourists in NYC.

Times Square, New York City, at night with bright billboards, ads, and bustling crowds, capturing the vibrant energy of the iconic spot.

Why Go:

Iconic location for entertainment and Broadway shows.
Great for shopping and dining in the heart of Manhattan.

Top Tip: Visit in the evening to see the area in full glow.

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4. Hike in Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

Yellowstone is the first national park in the world, known for its geothermal features, including Old Faithful, and abundant wildlife.

Grand Prismatic Spring at Yellowstone, showcasing colorful geothermal patterns with steam and forested mountains in the background.

Why Go:

Incredible opportunities to see geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.
Plenty of hiking trails for all levels.

Top Tip: Spend at least two days to explore the highlights without rushing.

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5. Walk the Las Vegas Strip (Nevada)

The Las Vegas Strip is packed with casinos, luxurious hotels, and spectacular shows. Whether you're into nightlife or simply sightseeing, there’s something for everyone.

Famous Night view of the Bellagio Hotel and fountain show in Las Vegas, with illuminated buildings and water display on the Strip.

Why Go:

World-class entertainment and dining.
Themed hotels and casinos provide a unique experience.

Top Tip: Don’t miss the Bellagio Fountain show.

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6. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway (California)

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, running along California’s coast. It takes you through stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and forests.

Blue Porsche driving on the Pacific Coast Highway, with winding roads, ocean views, and cliffs, capturing a thrilling coastal drive.

Why Go:

Beautiful coastal views with plenty of stops along the way.
Explore charming towns like Monterey and Santa Barbara.

Top Tip: Allow extra time for unplanned stops to fully enjoy the scenery.

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7. Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (New York City)

The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom, and a trip to Liberty Island is a must for history lovers.

Close-up of the Statue of Liberty against a clear blue sky, symbolizing freedom as one of New York City’s most famous landmarks.

Nearby Ellis Island offers a deep dive into the history of immigration in the USA.

Why Go:

One of the USA's most iconic landmarks.
Fascinating history of immigration at the Ellis Island Museum.

Top Tip: Book tickets early if you plan to visit the Statue's crown.

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8. See the Golden Gate Bridge (San Francisco, California)

The Golden Gate Bridge is a stunning engineering marvel and one of the most photographed bridges in the world.

A spectacular aerial view of the Golden Gate Bridge spanning San Francisco Bay, with the red structure and city skyline in the distance.

Walk or bike across to enjoy amazing views of the bay.

Why Go:

Walk or cycle across the bridge for fantastic views.
Iconic symbol of San Francisco.

Top Tip: Visit early in the day for clear views, as fog often rolls in later.

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9. Marvel at Niagara Falls (New York)

Niagara Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, located on the US-Canada border. It’s a great spot for both adventure and relaxation.