This summer is the perfect time to explore new parts of the country. Pack your bags and load up the car because it is time for a road trip! Here is your list of some of the nation's best travel destinations.
1. Pacific Coast Highway
Check out Big Sur, Malibu and the Redwood Forest as you explore over 650 miles of California's scenic route.
2. Austin, Texas
6th Street is a popular spot filled with cool bars, restaurants, art galleries, dance/comedy clubs and all the works. There's also lots of options for overnight goers including hostels and hotels.
3. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Looking for some nature? This area borders Tennessee and North Carolina and has amazing hiking trails for you and your crew.
4. Bryce Canyon, Utah
If you haven't had the chance to check out Bryce Canyon, it's a must. The National Park has the largest collection of "hoodoos," which look gorgeous at sunrise and sunset.
5. Portland, Oregon
There's a variety of fun things to do in Portland, whether you're the city type or if you prefer the outdoors. Check out the parks, art scene, theaters, parks or bicycle paths. There's also a excess of microbreweries and coffeehouses. Can you say "hipster?"
6. Seattle, Washington
Got a thing for rainy weather? Get a glimpse of the famous Space Needle and Public Market ... as well as the original Starbucks!
7. Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
The Great Sand Dunes National Park holds the record for tallest dunes in North America and is home to wetlands, forests, lakes and even a tundra. Looking for some out of the box activities to try on your trip? Try sand-sledding!
8. Route 1
Route 1 runs over 2,300 miles from Florida to Maine. There's even guides that provide comprehensive lists for food, stay, shop, sights and more along the route.
9. Michigan (literally any lake)
Maybe you're a paddle boarding, water skiing, fishing, boating lake-rat. Head north to Michigan, "the land of 10,000 lakes," to bask in the water and sunshine.
10. Finger Lakes, New York
And if you're looking for a great alternative to Michigan, New York is home to 11 long lakes that play in integral part in Native American legend. Go boating, camping, hiking and horseback riding among the waterfalls and woods.
11. Lake Powell, Utah
Lake Powell is another hot spot for water-lovers that I personally love. The crimson rocks are gorgeous, and there are gaps where you'll often find yourself secluded to fish and tube. My favorite tip? Jump off the side of a anchored boat for a quick dip in the water.
12. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
If you're a New Englander looking for a quick trip, Cape Cod is home to some incredible beaches, legendary seafood and the world-famous Martha's Vineyard.
13. Savannah, Georgia
Take a trip back in time when you visit Savannah. The city has cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages. If you're the superstitious type, there's plenty of buildings that are the homes to ghosts with bone-chilling stories.
14. Zion National Park, Utah
Zion is another favorite of mine. If you have the chance to check out the sights and hiking trails, it's a must. Check out the Emerald pools, waterfalls and famous red rocks while you hike, climb, camp, row, backpack, bike or horseback.
Whether you're looking to bike, swim, hike or shop, here's hoping you hop in the car and explore all the wonderful places that the U.S. has to offer!
