Wandermust | 50 Bucket List Items for Every State in the USA
By Best Western
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The United States offers unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. From listening to jazz in New Orleans to watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in Herald Square to seeing the wonders of the national parks, here are 50 bucket list items for every state in the USA.
1. Alabama – Become an astronaut at U.S. Space & Rocket Center
Did you dream of being an astronaut? Visit the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama to make those dreams a reality. Activities include Apollo 11 Virtual Reality, SCUBA Training, and a Flight Simulator.
Book your stay at Best Western Huntsville.
2. Alaska – View a glacier in Juneau
Juneau, Alaska is home to the Mendenhall Glacier, measured about 13.5 miles long and 1,800 feet deep. The Mendenhall Glacier is only 12 miles from downtown Juneau. The best time to visit is May through October.
Book your stay at Best Western Country Lane Inn.
3. Arizona – Catch sun rays in Scottsdale
It’s always sunny in Scottsdale, Arizona, and it’s another reason travelers come to visit the Grand Canyon state. Nestled right outside of Phoenix, the heart of Scottsdale is in Old Town, where there are over 100 bars, restaurants and nightlife to be found. There’s also a bustling arts scene with almost 50 art galleries to boast. Go there with a group of your friends and enjoy the charming Western vibes Scottsdale has to offer.
Book your stay at Aiden by Best Western @ Scottsdale North.
4. Arkansas – Drink 4,000-year-old water at Hot Springs National Park
Hot Springs National Park holds thermal water nearly 4,000 years old. You can experience the thermal water by soaking it in on Bathhouse Row or go “quaff the elixir” (drink the water) at various locations to can fill your water jug.
Book your stay at Best Western Winners Circle.
5. California – Hike to the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles
No other sight quite encompasses the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles than the Hollywood Sign. Originally a real estate ad for a new development called “Hollywoodland”, the Hollywood sign now stands today as a symbol for the ambitious history of Hollywood and its stars. Go hike up Mt. Lee at your own pace for a starlet-style picture.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Sunset Plaza Hotel.
6. Colorado – Get fit in Colorado Springs
Olympic City USA also known as Colorado Springs, is home to 60 national and international sports organizations. Go see why world-class athletes go to train there, visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, and enjoy the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains at every turn.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Executive Residency Fillmore Inn.
7. Connecticut – Learn something new at Yale University
Yale University traces its roots back to 1718, and has been an institution for over 300 years. Explore Yale’s rich culture by visiting the Yale University Art Gallery or the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus New England Inn & Suites.
8. Delaware – Try a unique beer flavor at Dogfish Head Brewery
Dogfish Head’s slogan is “Off-centered ales for off-centered people,” and if your beer is going stale, look no further than Dogfish Head Brewery for a refreshing beer. Located in Milton, Delaware, the brewery produces 262,000 barrels of beer annually, and includes many unique flavors. From sweet potato beer, “You Don’t Count Carbs on a Cold, Cold Night,” to malted corn beer, or Tuxpeño, “Snappers for Buttons,” this beer is not for the faint of heart.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Ocean City.
9. Florida – Go on spring break at Fort Myers
If you’re spring breaking and looking for a US destination, one of the most popular spots is Fort Myers, Florida. Famous for its beaches and parties, find the heart of it all at Fort Myers’ Times Square, the pulse of entertainment.
Book your stay at Best Western Fort Myers Inn & Suites.
10. Georgia – Find romance in Savannah
Romance is in the air at the famous fountain at Forsyth Park, modeled after the famous fountain of Place de la Concorde in Paris, and installed in 1858. Popular for its architecture, the fountain is surrounded by majestic trees in the 30-acre park, the oldest and largest park in Savannah, Georgia.
Book your stay at GLo Best Western Savannah-Gateway I-95.
11. Hawaii – Surf at Waikiki Beach
Honolulu, Hawaii is a paradise in its own right, and its beaches are world-class. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned surfer, make time to surf the waves at the iconic Waikiki Beach.
Book your stay at Best Western The Plaza Hotel Honolulu Airport.
12. Idaho – Observe the natural beauty of Shoshone Falls
Shoshone Falls is nicknamed the “Niagara of the West”, and actually surpasses the height of Niagara Falls. Travelers have been visiting Shoshone Falls since the mid-19th Century, when they would take a detour on the Oregon Trail just to see them!
Book your stay at Best Western Sawtooth Inn & Suites.
13. Illinois – Touch the “The Bean” in Chicago
Millennium Park in Chicago hosts the famous outdoor sculpture, Cloud Gate, best known as “The Bean”. Unveiled in 2005 and created by British artists, Anish Kapoor, this is one of the largest outdoor sculptures in the world. Go see yourself and a cool reflection of the city skyline in this amazing structure.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel.
14. Indiana – Go full speed at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Fulfill your ‘need for speed’ at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, also known as “The Greatest Race Course in the World.” As the host of the Indy 500, visiting during the event at The Racing Capital of the World is a must-do for car enthusiasts alike.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Greenwood/Indy South Inn.
15. Iowa – Spend a summer day at the Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is one of the most iconic and summery activities to do in the U.S. The event attracts over a million people worldwide and is known as the heartbeat of the Midwest. Go grab a corndog, ride the Ferris wheel, listen to live music and celebrate the summer.
Book your stay at Best Western Des Moines West Inn & Suites.
16. Kansas – Celebrate Oz
“The Wizard of Oz” is experiencing a resurgence, and “There’s no place like home” – also known as Kansas, At the OZ Museum, you can see the original ruby slippers – complete with nearly 4,000 Swarovski crystals, find first edition books, and more.
Book your stay at Best Western J.C. Inn.
17. Kentucky – Watch the Kentucky Derby in Louisville
Traveling through Kentucky in May means attending the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes of Sports”. Celebrate the two weeks prior with the Kentucky Derby Festival, an extravaganza of spring that includes fireworks, hot air balloons and other fun activities.
Book your stay at GLo Best Western Lexington.
18. Louisiana – Listen to music at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Jazz is the essence of New Orleans and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is a quintessential event. First pioneered in 1970, this event is a celebration of cultural force and has featured iconic musicians including Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan and more. The New York Times says, “…whereas other major festivals tend to be brief invasions of their locals, Jazz Fest is an institution, inseparable from the city.”
Book your stay at Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel.
19. Maine – See fall foliage at Acadia National Park
New England is popular fall its fall foliage, but nothing beats the colors of Acadia National Park. With over 158 miles of hiking as well as 1,000 plant species, the landscape of Acadia National Park is lush with nature’s beauty.
Book your stay at Best Western Acadia Park Inn.
20. Maryland – Build a sandcastle at Ocean City
“10 miles of memories” is the motto of Ocean City, Maryland– a family fun spot sure to surprise and delight. Enjoy building sandcastles while splashing in the ocean, playing themed minigolf, walking on the boardwalk, splashing at a water park, winding down a lazy river, riding a roller coaster or playing an arcade game.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Ocean City.
21. Massachusetts – Take a summer vacation at Cape Cod
As one of the world’s most quaint vacation spots, the little peninsula of Cape Cod is a respite from the real world. With notable summer residents such as musician Taylor Swift and former President John F. Kennedy, the allure of the beautiful beaches, carefree lifestyle, and lobster rolls of the Cape Cod area is undeniable.
Book your stay at Aiden by Best Western @ Cape Point.
22. Michigan – Canoe at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park
Named one of the top beaches on Earth by National Geographic, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park has fun for the whole family. It features beautiful 450 bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, canoeing on Crystal River, and hiking on the Heritage Trail.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Traverse City.
23. Minnesota – Shop at the Mall of America
Savvy shoppers should stop by the seventh largest shopping mall in the world, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The mall is larger than an NFL football field, spanning 60,000 square feet with more than 500 stores. Its attractions include the Nickelodeon Universe, the nation’s first indoor Nickelodeon theme park, SEA LIFE® Minnesota Aquarium and a Barnacle Blast Zip Line.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Blaine at the National Sports Center.
24. Mississippi – Visit Elvis Presley’s birthplace
The King of Rock & Roll was born in the small town of Tupelo, Mississippi, and you can visit his modest beginnings for yourself. The house is a part of the 5-acre Elvis Presley Park.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Tupelo Inn & Suites.
25. Missouri – Reimagine the Titanic at the Titanic Museum
The world’s largest Titanic Museum is filled with interactive exhibits in Branson, Missouri. Touch an iceberg, feel 28-degree water, view $4.5 million Titanic artifacts and walk an exact replica of the Grand Staircase.
Book your stay at Best Western Center Pointe Inn.
26. Montana – Go explore two National Parks
Whether you choose to drive the picturesque Going-to-the-Sun Road to view turquoise alpine lakes in Glacier National Park, or explore Yellowstone National Park’s 2.2 million acres and unique ecosystem, you’ll have a wild time outdoors in Montana.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Kalispell/Glacier Park West Hotel & Suites.
27. Nebraska – Take a stroll at Lincoln Sunken Gardens
From a dumpsite to a 1.5 acre, lush oasis, the Lincoln Sunken Gardens are a place for respite and relaxation. Listed by National Geographic as one of the “300 Best Gardens to Visit in the U.S. and Canada,” the location includes a healing garden, cascading waterfalls, lily pads and art installations.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Lincoln Inn & Suites.
28. Nevada – See what happens on the Las Vegas Strip
Where else can you see the Eiffel Tower, ride a Ferris wheel, watch a Michael Jackson street performer and gamble a fortune? Only on the Las Vegas strip, of course. Stroll the Las Vegas strip, approximately four miles of pompous lights, glitter and glamour for a one-of-kind experience.
Book your stay at The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Skypod, BW Premier Collection.
29. New Hampshire – Find inspiration at Robert Frost’s home
Find inspiration in the two story, 1880s farmhouse nestled in New Hampshire that was home to Robert Frost. Follow the footsteps of the famous Pulitzer-prize winning poet as you enjoy a nature walk littered with poems.
Book your stay at Best Western White Mountain Inn.
30. New Jersey – Get a fat sandwich at Rutgers University
While the original Grease Trucks are no longer around at Rutgers University, RU Alumni still come back to savor a bite of a decadent fat sandwich, which can include a stack of French fries, mozzarella sticks, and cheeseburger patties.
Book your stay at Best Western Rutgers University Hotel.
31. New Mexico – Be mesmerized by the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Imagine 54 football fields put together, with over 500 balloons filling the sky as you take in this magical picture amidst the crisp, fall air. This spectacle can only be seen at the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event is the largest ballooning event on earth, the most photographed event on earth and the largest annual international event held in the United States.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn.
32. New York – Celebrate the holidays at Herald Square
New York City is the heart of the holidays, and Herald Square is an integral part of the history of Manhattan. Macy’s, the world’s largest store, has been there for over 100 years, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is as American as it gets. Grab a spot during the holidays to watch Snoopy come dancing down the street and celebrate with all the glitz and glamour New York City offers.
Book your stay at Best Western Premier Herald Square.
33. North Carolina – Go on a beer-cation in Asheville
Need a beer-cation? Check out Asheville, North Carolina to visit “Beer City, U.S.A.” With more breweries per capita than any U.S. city, sip on over 100 local beers, try beer ice cream or beer breakfast, and bottoms up at the Beer City Festival in the late spring.
Book your stay at GLo Best Western Asheville Tunnel Road.
34. North Dakota – Let Your Imagination Soar in Fargo
Calling all aviation enthusiasts, you’ll love visiting the fantastic Fargo Air Museum – home to a number of iconic World War II aircraft, modern helicopters, and even a vintage flying Douglas DC-3. Combined with its incredible interactive exhibits and a replica of the original Wright Brothers’ Flyer, it’s Fargo’s must-see family-friendly attraction.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Kelly Inn & Suites
35. Ohio – Rock on at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Music lovers will adore the homage to their favorite rock stars and musicians at Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Don’t forget to head to the Garage on Level 2, pick up instruments, and jam out.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Mentor-Cleveland Northeast.
36. Oklahoma – Get your kicks on Route 66
When you visit the heart of Route 66 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, there’s tons of kitschy attractions, including The Blue Dome and Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios. Make a stop at the Route 66 Historical Village and celebrate all that the Capital of Route 66 has to offer.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Tulsa Inn & Suites.
37. Oregon – Put your nose in a book at Powell’s City of Books
Book lovers will love visiting Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore located in Portland, Oregon, that houses approximately one million books. The bookstore takes up an entire city block and with over 3,500 different sections, has a book for every interest.
Book your stay at Hotel Eastlund, BW Premier Collection.
38. Pennsylvania – Experience the history of Gettysburg
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Gettysburg, the notable location of the famous 3-day battle in July 1863. Examine, experience and learn the history of the Civil War by seeing the sights of the battlefield.
Book your stay at Best Western Gettysburg.
39. Rhode Island – View the unique art installations of Providence
In the artsy city of Providence, Rhode Island, go view the award-winning sculpture of Barnaby Evans, installed on the three rivers of downtown Providence, WaterFire. WaterFire is a display of over eighty bonfires that are lit in orchestration with music, twice a month from May to October.
Book your stay at Best Western Airport Inn.
40. South Carolina – Go wild with the animals at Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens
With more than 2,000 animals and 170 acres of scenic river views and historic landmarks, the impressive Riverbanks Zoo & Gardens in Columbia, South Carolina is a must-see. Attend one of their signature events such as Lights Before Christmas, Wine Tasting at Riverbanks Botanical Garden or Boo at the Zoo.
Book your stay at Best Western Executive Inn & Suites.
41. South Dakota – Pay a visit to the Presidents at Mount Rushmore
Where else can you find 60-ft-high granite sculptures of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln? Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore is a monumental sight to see.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Rapid City Rushmore.
42. Tennessee – Listen to the chords of Nashville
Nicknamed “Music City,” Nashville is bursting to the chords in all genres. Transverse Music Row to get a feel of the pulse of this Southern city. The street is famous for its plethora of recording studios, music production companies, record labels and radio stations.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Belle Meade Inn & Suites.
43. Texas – Eat Tex-Mex in Houston
“Everything’s bigger in Texas,” as the saying goes, and Houston’s food scene doesn’t leave you hungry. If you’re a foodie, you must stop by for Tex-Mex, a style of cuisine that integrates flavors of the Southwest with Mexican characteristics dating back to the 1800s. Chow down on breakfast tacos or enchiladas at more than 500 Tex-Mex restaurants in Houston, Texas.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Downtown Inn & Suites.
44. Utah – Go explore red rocks in Moab
Adventurers must travel to Moab, Utah, gateway to two national parks and stunning red rock landscapes. Catch a sunset and visit the famous Arches at Arches National Park or go hike to Islands in the Sky at Canyonlands National Park, the largest national park in Utah.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Canyonlands Inn.
45. Vermont – Grab a scoop at Ben and Jerry’s
I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ben and Jerry’s ice cream! The chunks and swirls of these unique flavors are produced in Ben and Jerry’s first factory. The factory produces 350,000 pints per day, and you can visit the Scoop Shop to try new flavors.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Windjammer Inn & Conference Center.
46. Virginia – Pay respect to the Washingtons at Mount Vernon
Visit the historic home of America’s first President and first lady, George Washington and Martha Washington at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. This historic site was their residence in 1754 and is located on the banks of the Potomac River.
Book your stay at Best Western Mount Vernon/Ft. Belvoir.
47. Washington State – Have a glass of wine in Prosser
With more than 30 wineries in walking distance, the little town of Prosser, Washington is a wine connoisseur’s heaven. Yakima Valley contains over 17,000 acres of vineyards and produces more than of Washington State’s wine grapes. Ready for a pour?
Book your stay at Best Western Plus The Inn at Horse Heaven.
48. West Virginia – Go white water rafting in Bridgeport
West Virginia is one of the best places in the world to go on a whitewater rafting adventure. Experience the famous “Gauley Season” on the Gauley River which has five rapids with a rating of “Class V” to make you scream your heart out.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Bridgeport.
49. Wisconsin – Be a cheesehead at Lambeau Field
Passionate cheesehead fans proudly sport their cheesiest gear on game days at Lambeau Field, but you don’t have to have game day tickets to tour the facility. View the stadium on a Lambeau Field tour and be sure to snap a cheesehead pic.
Book your stay at Best Western Green Bay Inn Conference Center.
50. Wyoming – Adventure in Cody
Founded by Colonel “Buffalo Bill” Cody in 1896, the town of Cody, Wyoming is the Wild West. Cody is also home to the nation’s first national park, Yellowstone National Park, and the nation’s first national forest, Shoshone National Forest. Visit for a wild, outdoor adventure.
Book your stay at Best Western Premier Ivy Inn & Suites.
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