The 8 Best 2024 Bucket List Destinations
There are so many places to see in the world—more than we can probably get to in a single lifetime. While it’s amazing to fly halfway across the world and explore faraway islands and cities, there are so many incredible places right here in the U.S. that are worth venturing to. From the deserts in the west to the mountains in the east, you’ll never run out of places to see or things to do in this country. Here are 8 destinations that are worth adding to your bucket list in 2024.
1. Grand Canyon, AZ
Sculpted by the Colorado River millions of years ago, the Grand Canyon is one of the most popular destinations in the U.S. Its unique formations of sedimentary and igneous rocks, as well as sandstone and mudstone sculptures, spread across its 277-mile-long and 18-mile-wide landscape of open space and tranquility. At Grand Canyon National Park, the South Rim is a popular spot for visitors, who can hike the three-mile South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge, which goes to the bottom of the canyon. To avoid the crowds, check out the easy Bright Angel Point Trail in the North Rim.
2. Bar Harbor, ME
It’s no secret that the state of Maine is home to eye-catching coasts, intimate downtown areas, and picturesque lighthouses. If downtown shops, seafood restaurants, and cliff-covered beaches are up your alley, then take a trip to Bar Harbor in Maine. While here, you’ll have easy access to Acadia National Park–one of the top 10 most visited national parks in the U.S. Within the park, explore Native American culture and its history in Maine at Abbe Museum, hike the popular Cadillac Mountain, or check out Thunder Hole, where waves have been crashing on this inlet for centuries.
3. Napa Valley, CA
If you’re a wine lover, then visiting wine country is a must. Stunning rolling hills, rows on rows of grape vines, and sunny skies spread across the landscape of Napa Valley. With over 400 wineries, such as Caymus Vineyards and Cakebread Cellars, you’ll have endless opportunities to follow a guide, visit wine cellars, and taste everything from pinot noirs and sauvignon blancs. Since you’re already in the area, it’s worth checking out the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, if you aren’t already driving over it in your itinerary.
4. White Mountains, NH
From viewing fall foliage along the Kancamagus Highway to hiking rugged 4,000-foot mountains, the White Mountains are an amazing place nestled in northern New Hampshire. Visitors can enjoy shopping, eating, and outdoor sports in downtown North Conway, rated the number one ski town in America. Experienced hikers will love the popular Mount Lafayette and Franconia Ridge Trail Loop and many other hikes in the Mount Washington Valley area. The White Mountains offer endless activities year round, so there’s never a bad time to visit this wonderful place.
5. Juneau, AK
Known as one of the best places to whale watch in Alaska, this southeastern city is a must-visit during your lifetime. Here, you can take a 3–4 hour boat ride to see orca and humpback whales after winter. Whale watching is just one of many incredible things to do in Juneau. In addition, check out the Mendenhall Glacier, hike 6.8 miles to explore Mount Juneau, take a tram up to Mount Roberts, visit the Glacier Gardens to explore diverse plant life and gorgeous gardens, and much more.
6. Niagara Falls, NY
It seems like everyone wants to see Niagara Falls at some point in their life, and we can understand why—the height, volume, and beauty of the falls is jaw dropping. At Niagara Falls State Park, adventurers can take the Maid of the Mist to the falls’ basin, check out Cave of the Winds, which is a very misty spot to view the falls, and explore local trails in the park. The park illuminates the falls at night and it’s also incredible to view in the winter when it’s frozen.
7. Nashville, TN
It seems like Nashville is the new Vegas, and arguably, it’s better. Known for its music history, amazing museums, lively nightlife, and top-notch cuisine, Nashville is a place for every fun-driven nomad to visit. Walk through the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum before heading into town for a night at Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar. Nashville is also a place for outdoor enthusiasts—several biking, hiking, and walking trails are available in the area.
8. Yellowstone National Park, MT
Perhaps you’re a huge fan of the show Yellowstone or simply live for the cowboy lifestyle. Eitherway, Yellowstone National Park should be on your priority list when it comes to visiting the west coast (it is the first national park ever established, after all). Home to more than 500 geysers, such as its most famous, Old Faithful Geyser, as well as several hiking trails and animals around everywhere, the park is a once-in-a-lifetime type of adventure. Hike to the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring or check out Yellowstone Lake, the highest elevation lake in all of North America, where you can go on a boat ride, kayak, or fish!
No matter which of these U.S. destinations you choose to go to in 2024, you really can’t go wrong with any of them. Perhaps you’re trying to check all 63 national parks in the U.S. off of your list or you’re wanting to visit a new area, such as the east coast. Either way, we can assure that you, your family, and/or your friends will make some incredible memories at any of these destinations! To make camping in your RV a little bit easier in 2024, consider adding a solar panel to your RV so you can stay off the grid for a little bit longer.
See you on the road!