Traveling In Focus contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of the Amazon links (or other affiliate links), we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our disclosure policy for more information.
These Are The Top 3 U.S. Travel Locations Not To Miss According To A New Report
Well, well, well, look who’s got the travel bug again. And you’re in luck because the Travvy Awards have done the legwork for you, voting on the top U.S. destinations you should add to your bucket list (and no, they didn’t just spin a globe and point; these hotspots were chosen by the real pros: travel advisors).
Now, we’re not just armchair explorers, reading about these spots from the comfort of our homes (and you shouldn’t be either!). Oh no, we’ve hit the ground running (or flying or driving, you get the gist) and have already seen two out of the three places.
Yep, we’ve seen the sights, tasted the food, and have the souvenir t-shirts to prove it. The third? It’s on the calendar, tickets are booked, and we’re counting down the days.
New Orleans (Bronze Winner)
Who’s ready for a culinary rollercoaster? Because New Orleans is a straight-up gastronomic amusement park. Picture this: exotic gumbo, spicy jambalaya, and lip-smacking beignets.
The city’s food scene is a crazy fusion of French, African, Spanish, and Caribbean vibes, which, let’s be honest, is pretty much the Avengers of world cuisine. But hey, it’s not just about eating (well, mostly).
How about taking a ride on a streetcar? And not just any streetcar. The city has America’s oldest continually chugging streetcar system: The St. Charles Avenue Line. It’s been rolling since 1835, before your grandpappy’s grandpappy was even a twinkle in his great-grandpappy’s eye.
Oh, you’re into spooky stuff instead? In that case, you’d better not miss Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Known for its above-ground tombs, this historic spot is a go-to for ghost hunters. Rumor has it the place is haunted. But, you know what they say: don’t believe it ’til you see it. Or, in this case, until a ghost accidentally photobombs your cemetery selfie.
Haven’t had your fill of things to do? Here are three more suggestions:
Las Vegas (Silver Winner)
We’re trading in the ghostly haunts of New Orleans for the razzle-dazzle of Las Vegas. A city so full of life that it needs neon signs to match its vibrancy. Where can you find these, you ask?
Well, take a saunter down to the Neon Boneyard. This isn’t your ordinary museum, oh no. It’s an outside gallery of bright, kitschy signs that once adorned the casinos and hotels of yesteryear. Talk about a graveyard with a twist.
Now, before we head out to the infamous Las Vegas Strip, let’s clear something up. Despite its name, the Strip isn’t really in Las Vegas. Nope. This 4-mile stretch of all things glitzy and over-the-top is actually chilling in a place called Paradise. The irony, right? Who knew geography could be so cheeky?
And before we forget, here’s another nugget for you – Vegas is known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” With its mind-blowing shows, concerts, and performances, it’s easy to see why. Unless you are getting utterly crushed in a game of blackjack, that is.
What’s on the “must-do” list for Vegas? Here you go:
Greater Miami and Miami Beach (Gold Winner)
Taking the gold is Miami, the only major U.S. city with a woman on its birth certificate. A certain Julia Tuttle, often dubbed the “Momma of Miami,” sweet-talked Henry Flagler, a railroad bigwig, into extending his tracks to what is now the vibrant city of Miami. She definitely knew how to get things done.
And did you know that Miami Beach is more than just sand and sea? You know those gorgeous pastel-colored buildings that light up your socials? That’s Miami’s Art Deco district for you, baby! Stroll down Ocean Drive, and you’ll see over 800 of these eye candies. They’re an aesthetic feast so delicious it’d put your favorite brunch spot to shame.
But wait, just when you thought we were done, there’s more. Miami is practically oozing with Latin American flair. If you’re a foodie or a party animal, this city is your playground.
The streets of places like Little Havana are practically humming with Cuban beats, bursting with flavorsome fare, and filled with a zest for life that’s so infectious you might find yourself doing the salsa at 2 pm on a Tuesday.
While you’re in town, don’t forget to: