The Top 5 State Capitals in the US for an Epic Getaway Vacation

If you’re looking for a more inspirational weekend getaway or family-themed escape, you don’t have to look much further than our impressive state capitals for an unforgettable vacation. Packed full of historical landmarks, stunning botanical gardens, and thrilling sports venues such as the Indy 500, here’s our shortlist of the top state capitals in the US that you need to visit this year.

Discover the historical charm of Albany, New York

Set along the banks of the Hudson, our first recommended destination sees us travel to Albany, New York, which easily makes it onto our shortlist of the best state capitals in the United States. A city where old-world history meets with modern groundbreaking architecture, whether you’re strolling through the Empire State Plaza or admiring the historic street layouts in keeping with its Dutch heritage, it makes for a fantastic place to visit.

A definite highlight of visiting Albany has to be to tour the USS Slater – the last floating World War II destroyer escort in the country – which is moored on the banks of the mighty Hudson River. Another key attraction of things to do in Albany is to catch a show at The Egg, which is the state capital’s iconic performance venue where patrons can enjoy theatrical productions, musicals, and comedy shows, and is well worth checking out.

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Indulge in a Sports-Infused Trip to Indianapolis, Indiana

We next head to the pulsating state capital of Indiana to experience the warm Midwestern welcome on offer whenever you visit Indianapolis. Securing its place among the top state capitals in the US, the lively city’s spirit is matched by its first-class local food scene and scenic river paths that run along the legendary White River.

However, if you’re a sports enthusiast, then Indianapolis is the place for you, whether it’s catching a Colts NFL game or cheering the NBA’s Indiana Pacers on to victory, both of these iconic sports franchises call Indy home. In addition to this, the city also boasts the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the setting for the thrilling Indy 500 held every May, but where fans can also tour the venue and amazing museum to ‘kiss the bricks’ and stand on the world-famous podium all year-round.

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Connect With Nature In All Its Glory in Madison, Wisconsin

Nestled between the enchanting Lakes of Mendota and Monona, Madison, Wisconsin, is one of the most spectacular state capitals in the country and is best known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. Here, we highly recommend sightseeing along countless bike paths along the waterfront or taking a stroll through the picturesque downtown area full of open-air spaces that immerse you in this top state capital’s laid-back atmosphere and distinctive charm.

For those looking for family-friendly things to do in Madison, you can’t beat a visit to the prestigious Henry Vilas Zoo, where you and the kids can see first-hand the exotic wildlife, along with their pioneering global conservation efforts. If you’re a nature lover too, then we’d also recommend paying the Olbrich Botanical Gardens a visit, famed for its Royal Thai Pavilion, and vibrant 16 acres of outdoor gardens.

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Uncover the Mythical Charms and Clandestine Tales of St. Paul, Minnesota

Our next destination on our shortlist of the best state capitals in the US sees us heading to the prominent city of St Paul, popular among visitors for its contemporary culture and its elegant historic architecture. As one half of the ‘Twin Cities,’ when you’re in town visiting, be sure to stop in to see the Cathedral of Saint Paul and the historic James J. Hill House, just two of the architectural highlights situated just off the banks of the Mississippi River.

Fun for kids and adults of all ages, our first recommendation of things to do in St Paul is to head to the fascinating Science Museum of Minnesota, whose superb Omnitheater introduces an absorbing interactive element to learning. However, if you love incredible backstories, be sure to also take the Wabasha Street Caves & Gangster Tour, which explores the city’s shadowy tunnels that were once the setting of an intriguing crime wave during the Prohibition era.

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Taste the Farm-to-Table Delights of Des Moines, Iowa

Best known for its thriving cultural scene and its unique riverside heritage, our final vacation destination of the best state capitals to visit this year just had to be Des Moines, Iowa. Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of visiting Des Moines is its deep agricultural roots, where the farm-to-table food scene is matched only by the dazzling variety of live music venues.

Undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in Des Moines is the Iowa State Fairgrounds, which hosts over 200 events annually, including the Iowa State Fair every August, as well as countless music concerts, classic car shows, and seasonal festivals. For the foodies among you, Des Moines also offers visitors the chance to discover its sublime Downtown Farmers’ Market, whose nearly 300 vendors showcase a mesmerizing array of fresh products and artisanal foods for the whole family to enjoy.

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