Plenty of people are headed to study abroad this semester to gain some incredible experience in countries like Spain, Italy, Prague, Greece and tons of others. Studying abroad is probably one of the most rewarding experiences that a student can have, but it's not always viable for all students. For those "stuck" in America, don't worry about it, pal. There are plenty of amazing places right in the U.S. to explore and travel to. You don't have to sit around feeling sorry for yourself because your photos from this summer are a lot less breathtaking than your friends, America has some pretty unreal sites:
So are you seeking adventure in hiking, skiing, swimming etc.?
Aspen, Colorado : Colorado has plenty of places to visit, Aspen being just one that offers picturesque scenery, amazing hikes and skiing all over for all levels of outdoorsmen. If the photo above does not convince you that this place is stupidly beautiful, then check out Maroon Bells scenic trails. Instead of gaping at friends' Swiss Alp photos and Irish Cliffs, match theirs with your Aspen mountaintops.
Sedona, Arizona: Not a snow person? Sedona's red rocks and desert-like scenery look like they are out of an old west story, and who wouldn't want to feel like John Wayne for a day? Okay, maybe not everyone, but for those who would, check out Sedona.
Pictured Rock Lakeshore, Michigan (Upper Peninsula) :When most people think of Michigan, they think Detroit. They think of the gloomy photos of empty houses and vacant businesses. Most people that live in Michigan think winter when they think of being in the mitten. Although, what many forget or don't know is that Michigan, being the Great Lakes State, has some pretty cool places to go. Pictured Rock is in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and has cliffs, little beaches and coves that rival other scenic destinations worldwide.
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska: I think this photo speaks for itself, but Alaska is a place like no other. With glaciers, mountains and some pretty unique wildlife, Alaska proves there is no shame in hanging out in the States.
Flathead Lake, Montana: So you know those glaciers? Well, there is a lake in Montana that was made from one of those glaciers and it's so clear that it looks like people are floating on it. If you are seeking a place to make people jealous of your summer, this is it.
More of a music person looking for a cool "scene"?
Nashville, Tennessee: Nashville isn't only the place for country music and down south tradition, as the city was literally built on music from rock to blues to even pop, each type has its place in Nashville.
Looking for the historical side of things?
America might be younger than Europe and Asia, but that doesn't mean there aren't things to see.
Alcatraz,California: This jail has plenty of stories from its famous inmates like Al Capone and Whitey Bulger to the famous June 1962 escape of two inmates. Alcatraz, of course, can be visited off the coast of San Francisco, which in itself has plenty of things to do.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Not only does New Orleans have the historic sites, but the amount of culture overflowing from this city is incredible. The joining of French, African and American cultures combine to bring life and a vibrant feel to the city all year round. From jazz houses to amazing little book stores, you could probably spend a week there and still not even scratch the surface of things to do.
If you aren't convinced, look up some more places to visit. Once you've done that, I don't think you'll disagree that being stuck in the good ol' United States ain't so bad.
