Ultimate USA Adventure Bucket List: 20 Best Trips & Experiences for 2025

If you’re someone who thrives on adventure, this list is tailor-made for you. As an avid adventure enthusiast, I’m always up for trying new experiences and sharing my bucket list items worldwide. In this post, I’ll dive into the ultimate United States of America (USA) Adventure Bucket List, a guide filled with exciting activities and destinations that every thrill-seeker should consider.

To make this list even better, I contacted fellow adventurers and content creators who have experienced these activities firsthand. Their insights have added a personal touch to each adventure, making this list unique and trustworthy. From scenic rock climbs and deep-sea dives to sky-high paragliding and rugged off-road trails, this guide covers some of the country’s best experiences. The USA has no shortage of options.

Join me as I share these adventures, curated not only from my own experiences but also from the stories and recommendations of fellow travelers. This bucket list is designed to inspire you to pack your bags, gear up, and explore the adventures waiting in the USA.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

USA’s Adventure Bucket List

#1 Antelope Canyon in Page

Suggested by Candice from Exploring the West Coast

Antelope Canyon is one of the most unique and beautiful slot canyons in the United States. Antelope Canyon is located in Page, Arizona, just along the Utah border. This area is full of beautiful natural features and areas to explore.

The canyon’s sandstone walls have been carved by years of water erosion and have a beautiful wave-like appearance. Another unique feature of the canyon is the beautiful light beams, which are visible from May to September.

Antelope Canyon sits on private Navajo Land, so you must book a tour to explore it. There are three parts of the canyon to explore: Upper Antelope Canyon, Lower Antelope Canyon, and Canyon X. All three sections of the canyon are beautiful, but Upper Antelope Canyon is the most popular, making the ticket prices the most expensive, ranging at about $125 per ticket. Lower Antelope Canyon is less expensive and worth walking through if you need something more economical. Still, the light beams are not as common, and there are steep ladders in the canyon.

Overall, the canyons are pretty easy to walk through. Remember that the ladders in Lower Antelope Canyon are steep, and young kids or those with mobility challenges may struggle with them. Upper Antelope Canyon and Canyon X are mostly flat and considered easy walks.

There is very limited public transportation near Page, so it is best to have your own transportation. The Hampton Inn & Suites Page—Lake Powell is a great place to stay during your Antelope Canyon adventure. After your canyon tour, you can enjoy the desert sunshine at the pool. The hotel has wonderful reviews and includes a free breakfast.

#2 Airboat Tour in the Everglades

Suggested by V Kay from Travel Addicted Unicorn

The Everglades are located at the southern tip of Florida and are the largest wetland ecosystem in the United States. Despite what many people think, the Everglades are not a large swamp but a slow-moving river home to many species of vegetation. That is why the Everglades earned its nickname, the River of Grass.

Doing an airboat tour in the Everglades is one of the best ways to experience this unique and important habitat, where you will find many endangered species of animals and plants. This thrilling adventure involves gliding over the waters of the Everglades on a flat-bottomed boat propelled by a giant fan, allowing you to explore areas inaccessible by other means. These tours allow spotting alligators, exotic birds, and other wildlife.

The Everglades can be accessed from several different points of view, but one of the easiest ways is from Miami. The closest area is the Everglades Holiday Park, about a 45-60-minute drive from Miami.

The cost for an airboat tour can range from $30 to $60 per person, depending on the length and company you choose. There is an option to book the airboat tour if you have a car. Alternatively, you can book a tour with transportation included from Miami. In addition, the Miami hop-on and hop-off bus has a route that goes to the Everglades.

No prior experience is required to participate in an airboat tour, which is a family-friendly activity suitable for all ages. The best time to visit the Everglades for an airboat tour is during the dry season (November to April), when the weather is more pleasant, and there’s less risk of rain.

YVE Hotel Miami is a great hotel to stay in. It is located in the downtown area and is not too expensive. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and bug spray with you. Overall, the Everglades is an amazing place to explore and one of the fun things to do in Miami for adults.

#3 Camping in the Adirondacks Mountains

Suggested by Sandra from Origin Travels

The Adirondack Mountains are located in upstate New York (and are one of the most scenic places in the state). With six million acres of forest, rocky mountain peaks, more than 3,000 lakes and ponds, thousands of miles of streams and trails, and 146 campgrounds, outdoor lovers have no shortage of adventure.

To reach the Adirondacks, fly into Albany International Airport or drive to the area; a car is essential for exploring. Popular towns like Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Lake George, and Tupper Lake offer plenty to see and do.

Camping options, such as River Ridge Camp Adirondacks, are abundant. The Visit Adirondacks website provides details for designated campgrounds and backcountry sites. The best time to visit is between August and October when the weather is pleasant, bugs are fewer, and the fall season brings fewer crowds.

Island camping, taking advantage of the region’s many waterways, is a unique Adirondack experience. Lake Champlain, Blue Mountain Lake, Lake George, and the Saranac Lake Chain are popular island camping locations, offering a memorable way to connect with nature.

The Adirondacks offer hiking trails of varying difficulties, including challenging routes like Indian Head and Rainbow Falls and the Gothics via Pyramid Peak. The moderate Ausable River West River Trail and easy High Falls Gorge provide scenic options for all levels. Beyond hiking, enjoy mountain biking, swimming, whitewater rafting, scenic drives, and local dining. Remember to plan early, especially if visiting in summer, as campsites fill up quickly.

#4 Cycling across The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

Suggested by Caitriona Maria from The Facts Institute

If you go to San Francisco, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge is a must! To get the full experience, many people rent out bicycles and cycle across its 1.8-mile stretch. The Hendrik Point Vista Point is a great photo stop! If you want to make it a workout, continue on the Marin side of the Golden Gate Bridge until you reach Sausalito, which could easily fill your entire day’s itinerary. The entire journey from Fisherman’s Wharf to Sausalito is 8 miles and takes about 45 minutes by bike. If you grow tired, you can always take a ferry back to San Francisco and bring your bike on board, too.

An all-day city bicycle rental at Fisherman’s Wharf costs about $40, but there are cheaper options if you want to rent it for a shorter period. Anyone can do this activity, and it’s best to visit on a day with clear skies to get the perfect picture! It can get quite breezy there, as it’s the only gap in the coast range for hundreds of miles, so make sure to cover up!

With the Golden Gate Bridge being such a prominent feature of San Francisco, the city has many accommodation options, such as Nob Hill Hotel, Hilton San Francisco Union Square, or SoMa Park Inn. Uber is very convenient for getting to and from different points.

#5 Fall Hiking in the Ruby Mountains

Suggested by Jess and Julia from The Lavender Travelers

Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, set in the high desert of northeast Nevada, is a hidden gem perfect for a fall hiking getaway. While summer hikes can be sweltering here, autumn offers ideal conditions for exploring the forest’s trails, with yellow and orange fall colors against the towering Ruby Mountains.

This is a great free weekend activity, as even on the busiest days, the trails are not packed like many of the parks in neighboring states.

You don’t need extensive outdoor experience here, as trails range from easy to challenging. However, basic outdoor safety is a must. Always inform someone of your planned route and estimated return time. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, especially in late fall – if the forecast looks bad, it’s best to postpone your hike or return.

For visitors from out of town, Elko is the nearest city and a convenient base from which to stay. A car is necessary to reach the forest, with a scenic 30-minute drive up Lamoille Canyon leading to the trailhead parking area.

Plan your visit between late August and early October to escape the desert heat and catch the early fall foliage at higher elevations.

For an easy-to-moderate trail option, try the Dollar Lakes Trail for stunning views with less effort. If you’re up for a more challenging hike, the Lamoille Lake Trail is a local favorite! Remember, the high elevation can be tough, so pace yourself and bring plenty of water.

#6 Glacier Hiking at Matanuska Glacier in Alaska

Suggested by Danae from Danae Explore

Glacier hiking is a must-do when visiting Alaska. With over 5% of the state covered by glaciers, from small alpine ones to massive tidewater glaciers, the experience is spectacular. Imagine standing before a colossal glacier, feeling the cold breeze, hearing the ice crack, and walking on one of these natural wonders.

One of the most accessible spots for glacier hiking is Matanuska Glacier. Stretching 27 miles long and 4 miles wide, it’s the largest car-accessible glacier in the U.S., 95 miles from Anchorage along the scenic Glenn Highway.

While the hike is active, it’s designed to be manageable for most people—ensure everyone in your group can comfortably navigate uneven terrain. At the visitor center, you’ll receive a helmet and crampons. Guided hikes are conducted in small groups, starting with a walk across a floating bridge over the lagoon formed by melting ice before venturing onto the glacier.

Once equipped with crampons, you’ll explore stunning blue ice formations, crevasses, and ice tunnels for about two hours, culminating in a breathtaking arena-style ice formation that will leave you in awe. Remember, the glacier constantly changes, so every visit offers a unique experience.

For accommodation, consider Sheep Mountain Lodge or Majestic Valley Wilderness Lodge. If you’re on an RV Alaska road trip, the Grand View Café and RV Park is an excellent place to park and grab a delicious meal before or after your adventure.

The site is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September, when longer days and milder temperatures provide safer and more enjoyable hiking conditions.

#7 Hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park

Suggested by Natalie from Camping Kiddos

Head to Zion National Park for one of the most incredible hikes in the United States! The Narrows hike occurs almost entirely in the Virgin River, so prepare to get wet. The sections in the river are usually no more than knee-deep, but there are a few areas where you’ll need to really commit and wade through chest-deep water. Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing and hiking sandals, and bring a walking stick for stability on the rocky river bottom.

From the trailhead at the end of the Riverside Walk, the Narrows hike snakes 14 miles through a beautiful sandstone canyon. While most people don’t complete the entire hike, that’s part of the appeal of the Narrows since you can stop anywhere you’d like and head back to the trailhead. Since you can choose your adventure on this hike, hiking the Narrows with kids is a fun family day in Zion.

Plan this adventure for the warmer months since you’ll be in the water for nearly the entire hike. May and June are ideal, as the water will be more moderate, and the early summer sun helps keep hikers comfortable. Be careful if you’re doing the hike in late summer, as this is Utah’s rainy season, and, therefore, flash flooding in the Narrows is a real risk. Always check at the Zion Visitors Center to see the forecast.

You can access the trailhead via the free Zion National Park shuttle, which departs regularly from the visitor’s center. The Narrows is at the Temple of Sinawava, the 9th and final shuttle stop in the Zion Canyon area of the park. When you’re tired from hiking at Zion, head to the cute cabins and waterfront camping sites at Zion Canyon Campground and Zion White Bison Glamping & RV Resort, just a quarter mile from the national park entrance.

#8 Hiking the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

Suggested by Shweta Singhal from Zest In A Tote

Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s signature hikes and is recommended for any Yosemite itinerary for hikers and adventure enthusiasts. So, it’s best to start early in the day. You get spectacular views scattered along the trail and a personal experience of 2 magnificent falls, namely the Vernal and Nevada Falls. In late spring/early summer, when the falls are in full flow, you would get drenched climbing up the 600 steps, hence the name ‘Mist Trail’.

The trailhead is in the eastern Yosemite Valley, and a shuttle bus can take you there. The climb starts right from the trailhead, and just after 0.8 miles, you come upon the Vernal footbridge, which gives you a good view of Vernal Falls in the distance. It gets crowded from the trailhead to the Vernal Falls footbridge. Some people turn back from here, while most continue to the top of Vernal Falls.

Continuing uphill on the Mist Trail, you cross the Emerald Lake and Silver Apron. Another footbridge gives you a good view of the Nevada Falls. You can continue up to the top of Nevada Falls from here or turn back to make it a shorter hike.

Consider staying at Inside Yosemite Winter Wonderland. For a budgeted stay, Yosemite International Hostel is a great option.

#9 Hot Air Balloon Ride in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Suggested by Denise from Chef Denise

Looking for an adventure in New Mexico? Take a hot air balloon ride in Albuquerque, the hot air balloon capital of the world! Albuquerque’s unique weather and wind patterns helped earn that reputation. The city is also home to the world-renowned Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum, and ABQ holds the world’s largest hot-air ballooning event every October. However, balloon rides are popular here all year round.

It doesn’t require any experience, and you don’t have to be in peak physical condition. However, those with altitude issues or a fear of heights may want to think twice about floating a few thousand feet off the ground. Otherwise, as long as you’re over the age of 5, can stand for an hour, and are not pregnant, you can fly with companies such as Rainbow Ryders.

It just takes a little courage to let someone else guide you through the air in a little basket attached to an 80-foot balloon fueled by propane. But the view of the city below and the mountains in the distance is worth it. The hardest part is the wake-up time for the morning launches as they depart based on the sunrise. If you’re not a morning person, consider a sunset flight.

Flights typically last about an hour, but the entire activity is closer to 3. Your balloon company will determine your meeting point, which will most likely require a short drive out of the center of town. If you’re attending the yearly festival, it will be at Balloon Fiesta Park. 

Stay at the Hotel Albuquerque in Old Town, where some rooms have balloon views. From here, you can walk to local breweries and to some of the city’s best restaurants for traditional New Mexican food. That’s another adventure you won’t want to miss!

#10 Kayaking in Michigan’s Lake Superior

Suggested by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

Kayaking on Lake Superior near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers a breathtaking adventure through emerald waters beneath towering sandstone cliffs and past vibrant, multicolored rock formations. The 15-mile stretch of shoreline is best explored by kayak, allowing you to get up close to caves, arches, and otherwise inaccessible waterfalls. It’s one of the best things to do in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

You can bring your own kayak and jump in, but that is only recommended if you’re an experienced kayaker, as Lake Superior can be dangerous and unpredictable. You should also never go out alone. A better option is to book a tour with the Pictured Rocks Kayaking Co. They offer a couple of kayaking tour options. If you’re short on time, choose the Miners Castle Tour. It’s 3 hours and $99, but to enjoy the best spots along the lakeshore, choose the Ultimate Kayak Tour, which is 5 hours and $168. You don’t have to have previous kayaking experience if you go on one of their tours.

The best time to visit is during the summer (June – August) for warm and sunny weather, but be forewarned, Lake Superior never really gets warm! It’s great for kayaking but not for swimming. The only way to get to the area is by car. You can fly into the Marquette Sawyer Regional Airport and rent a car there; it’s just under an hour’s drive from there. Consider staying at Larsmont Cottages at Two Harbors.

#11 Kayaking through Puerto Rico’s Bioluminescent Bay

Suggested by Marina from Travel Eat Blog

Kayaking through Puerto Rico’s bioluminescent bay is an unforgettable bucket-list experience. Imagine the water illuminating with a glow, thanks to millions of tiny organisms called dinoflagellates, creating a truly unique, natural light show. While there are three bioluminescent bays to explore on the island, Laguna Grande is the most convenient for those on a short trip. It is located just northeast of San Juan and near El Yunque National Forest. 

Kayaking is easiest with a tour, which costs around $50–$65 per person and usually starts in the evening. The tours include all equipment, and while no previous kayaking experience is required, you should be prepared to kayak for about 30-45 minutes. 

Bioluminescence peaks from May to October, and the best time to visit the biobay is during a new moon. Seeing the glow will be much harder if you arrive on a full moon. 

If you’re staying in San Juan, you can take an Uber or other ride service to Laguna Grande and combine your trip with a visit to El Yunque. Sheraton Puerto Rico Resort & Casino is a great choice. If you want to be closer or extend your stay, Las Casitas Village at El Conquistador is a popular nearby choice.

Be sure to bring insect repellent spray, as there can be a lot of mosquitoes, and avoid wearing sunscreen to protect the ecosystem. It can be hard to take photos in the dark, so enjoy the moment and marvel at one of Puerto Rico’s most unique natural wonders.

#12 Kayaking with Manatees in Crystal River

Suggested by Erin Moreland from The Simple Salty Life

Kayaking with manatees in Crystal River, Florida, offers an incredible chance to connect with these gentle “sea cows” in their natural habitat. Located about 90 minutes north of Tampa, Crystal River is the manatee capital of the world, where you can kayak right over clear springs as manatees swim just beneath you.

Around 800 to 1,000 manatees migrate to Crystal River each winter, seeking warmth in its spring-fed waters, which maintain a constant temperature of about 72°F (22°C). The Three Sisters Spring within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge is especially popular with manatee-seekers, creating one of the largest gatherings of manatees in the world. This influx makes Crystal River a prime winter destination for manatee viewing, with January and February being peak months.

Crystal River Kayak Company offers kayak rentals starting at around $25 per hour, with guided tours available if you prefer a guide’s expertise. No prior kayaking experience is required, and tours are typically beginner-friendly and ideal for all ages. You can also bring your vessel and launch right from the Chassahowitzka River campground boat launch for a small fee.

Public transportation to Crystal River is limited, so driving is your best option. For a comfortable stay, the Plantation on Crystal River offers a charming, family-friendly spot with a lagoon-style pool, championship golf course, and easy access to water sports, including fishing, kayaking, and scalloping. You can also consider staying in the Retreat at Crystal Manatee.

To maximise your adventure, try an early morning kayak tour with fewer crowds. While kayaking, keep a respectful distance from manatees; though friendly, they’re protected, so avoid touching them. Look out for shallow areas and maintain a quiet presence to witness these serene creatures up close.

#13 Moab Canyoneering

Suggested by Sonia from Carey On Travels

Moab, Utah, offers canyoneering experiences perfect for adrenaline-seekers and those who enjoy spending time in nature. Head off the beaten path in Moab and enjoy one of the must-do canyoneering adventures: a guided tour with a rappel down Morning Glory Arch. 

The adventure begins at the tour center. After getting geared up, everyone is driven out to Sand Flats in 4x4s. The scenic hike from there to the rappelling area is short and easy, winding through the red sandstone formations. The guides provide instructions and carefully check everyone’s rappelling equipment before starting. The backup safety system allows even beginners to join this experience. 

The first rappelling stage leads to a small stone room. This is a great introduction before tackling the second and larger rappel. The next rappel gets the adrenaline pumping, heading down Morning Glory Arch, which spans nearly 250 feet across the canyon. 

After the rappel, the journey continues with a hike out of Grandstaff Canyon. This roughly 2-mile hike is slightly downhill, following a spring-fed stream the whole way. There are multiple stream crossings, most with natural rocks to walk on. Your feet can get wet and feel refreshing on a hot day!   

The tour guides provide useful information about the natural setting and the canyon’s history. This canyoneering trip challenges your physical limits and gives you time to enjoy the beautiful canyon setting.

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Moab, an IHG Hotel is a wonderful choice to stay.

#14 Rim to Rim Hike in The Grand Canyon

Suggested by Kristen Czudak from Yonderlust Ramblings

While Grand Canyon National Park receives about 5 million visitors annually, only a small percentage of visitors experience this natural wonder by hiking across it from Rim to Rim! The Rim to Rim hike, spanning the entire chasm of the Grand Canyon from one rim to the other, is one of the most challenging and iconic hikes in the United States.  

A Rim to Rim hike can be completed by starting at either the North or South Rim and hiking to the other. The North Rim is more secluded and rustic and is located near Fredonia and Jacob Lake, Arizona. The South Rim is more touristy and is located near Tusayan, Williams, and Flagstaff, Arizona. 

Phoenix, Flagstaff, Grand Canyon Airport, and Las Vegas, Nevada, are the easiest airports to fly into. National Park lodges are on both rims, with the Grand Canyon North Rim Lodge being a longstanding visitor favorite.

The best time to complete a Rim to Rim hike is between May 15th and October 15th, when there is access to the North Rim. Aim for early to mid-October to avoid some of the hottest temperatures deep in the canyon.

A Rim to Rim hike is best suited for hikers who have experience with long day hikes or challenging overnight backpacking hikes since the Rim to Rim can be completed as both. Either way, completing this trek means committing to months of planning, preparation, and proper training for a Rim to Rim hike. 

The Rim to Rim hike is between 21 and 24 miles long (depending on which direction you hike) and involves between 4,300 and 5,700 feet of elevation gain. It also involves challenging environmental factors, including excessive summer temperatures. However, the payoff is worth it if you emerge successful at the top of the rim after hiking from the bottom! 

Not only that, but the inner canyon holds surprises that only those completing a Rim to Rim will discover: waterfalls, gentle streams, green oases, rock tunnels, and the two uniquely different environments on the North and South rims!

#15 Sea Kayaking in Maine

Suggested by Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Kayaking along the coast of Maine is a wonderful adventure activity. Sea kayaking along the rocky coast to an uninhabited island is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will paddle in changing tides, watch seals play in the water, and explore remote bays in your kayak.

Acadia National Park is a perfect base for sea kayaking trips on the quiet west side of Mount Desert Island or through the Porcupine Islands in Frenchman Bay. Tour companies in Bar Harbor offer four-hour tours that visit islands for beachcombing. Along the rocky coast, look for eagles and harbor seals.

There are also 2.5-hour harbor paddling trips and sunset kayak journeys. Beginners and families will enjoy these exciting experiences. Experienced sea kayakers can rent boats to explore the beautiful waters around Acadia on one-day or multi-day trips.

All paddling adventures start in Bar Harbor, the charming town that is the gateway to Acadia National Park. The best way to reach Bar Harbor is by car. The nearest airport is in Bangor, Maine. The Bluenose Inn – Bar Harbor Hotel has a lovely location overlooking the bay.

July or August is the best time for sea kayaking trips on the Maine coast. The ocean has warmed up and is teeming with wildlife. Wear clothes that can get wet, sandals, and a sun hat. Bring water and a quick snack to give you energy on the paddling trip.

#16 Snorkeling in Key West

Suggested by Chelsea Sanburg from Hello Florida Keys

Snorkeling in Key West is an adventure like no other, offering access to one of the most vibrant coral reefs in the world. Key West’s clear, warm waters are perfect for an underwater escape any time of year. You’ll be in awe of the colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and maybe even a glimpse of sea turtles or dolphins. 

The best part about this activity is that beginners are welcome, yet it never gets old, so you’ll still love it as an expert. The tour guides will give a short briefing and teach you how to snorkel if you’re a beginner. Most tours also provide floatation devices if you don’t feel confident in your swimming abilities. 

Key West is very walkable. Most tours depart from locations that are walkable to your accommodation. The Historic Seaport, located at the end of Duval Street, is a common departure location. 

You can expect to pay between $40 and $80. Prices vary by tour length and amenities. Many of these tours offer additional options, such as stopping at a sandbar or dolphin watching. The ideal season for snorkeling is from December to May, when the seas are calm, and visibility is best.

For accommodations, The Marker Key West Harbor Resort is a popular choice close to the seaport, placing you near several snorkeling tour operators and local attractions.

Apply reef-safe sunscreen, as it’s often required, to protect marine life. Be mindful of jellyfish, especially in late summer. And remember, the coral reef is fragile, so avoid touching it to preserve its beauty.

#17 Swamp Tour in New Orleans

Suggested by Goya Galeotta from Goya Galeotta

If you want to add a touch of wilderness to your New Orleans adventure bucket list, a swamp tour is a must! These amazing tours take you into the heart of Louisiana’s bayous and bring you face-to-face with the untamed beauty of Louisiana wetlands, where you’ll glide under ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss as alligators, herons, and turtles appear along the water’s edge. 

Airboat Adventures is one of the many providers in the area that offers several tours to suit different budgets and group sizes. For an intimate experience, the small airboat tour (from $119 per person) seats up to ten passengers and includes roundtrip transportation from downtown New Orleans (pick-up begins 1 hour and 15 minutes before the tour). The large airboat tour (from $59 per person) holds up to 30 passengers and is a budget-friendly, self-transport option with free parking onsite. If you prefer a smooth ride (or have kids under 5 in your group), try the Pontoon Boat Swamp Tour ($35 without transport, $65 with transport), which is ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely exploration.

One of the best parts is that no experience is required for this adventure! Each tour is led by an experienced guide who navigates you through the winding bayous, offering fascinating insights into local wildlife and Cajun culture. So all you need to do is enjoy the ride and keep your hands inside the boat (if taking one of the airboat tours) — as curious gators may approach!

Now, onto some practical tips: Spring, from late February to May, offers cooler temperatures and abundant wildlife activity. Morning tours are ideal for fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere. Free parking is available for self-drive options, but Uber and Lyft services are not accessible in the area. So, opt for a tour with hotel pick-up if you’re without a car.

While the bayou is great for adventure, the best stays are still in the centre of New Orleans. Memoir New Orleans, with its seasonal outdoor swimming pool, is achingly cool. In contrast, Maison Perrier Bed & Breakfast is a charming historic bed and breakfast—both great bases for exploring New Orleans.

#18 The Hollywood Sign Hike in Los Angeles

Suggested by Raksha Nagaraj

The Hollywood Sign hike is an iconic outdoor adventure in Los Angeles, California. It offers sweeping city views and a close-up look at the famous landmark. This hike combines nature, scenic views, and a taste of Hollywood history, making it a must-do when visiting LA. The hike is free, though parking nearby may incur fees (around $10-15). No experience is required for this hike, but some sections are moderately challenging, so a moderate fitness level is recommended.

There are several trail options to reach the sign, the most popular being the Mount Hollywood Trail and Brush Canyon Trail. Each trail provides a unique vantage point of the sign and city. To get there using public transport, take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Vine Station and then catch a bus to Griffith Park; the starting points for trails are within a short walk.

For a comfortable stay near the Hollywood area, consider booking The Hollywood Roosevelt, known for its historical charm and convenient location.

The best time to hike is in the cooler months, from October to April when the weather is mild. For a daytime hike, start early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear.

Be mindful of rattlesnakes along the trail and stick to marked paths. Off-trail hiking is restricted to preserve the area’s natural beauty and prevent erosion.

#19 Walking The Catwalk Underneath the New River Gorge Bridge

Submitted by Rebecca from The Researched Traveler

The New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia is the longest single-span bridge in the US. It stretches 3,030 feet across the New River in West Virginia and is 876 feet high. If you’re up for it, the most unique way to experience it is by walking underneath it on the 24-inch catwalk that runs the entire bridge length.

Views of the gorge from the bridge are incredible. Whether you’re interested in the fantastic views, the incredible feat of engineering, or the thrill-seeking adventure, the New River Gorge Bridge Walk is an amazing experience.

Anyone over the age of 8 can enjoy it only on a guided tour. Tours are $75 and provide everything you need to get across the bridge safely. On the tour, you spend over an hour on the bridge, walking the catwalk and taking in the views.

The area of Fayetteville, WV, where the bridge is located, is an adventure lover’s paradise. Adventures on the Gorge Resort or Quality Inn New River Gorge would be a great home base for your road trip.

You can enjoy the New River Gorge Bridge year round, as the Bridge Walk is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. New River Gorge in the fall is especially beautiful. If you’re afraid of heights, you may have a challenge with this adventure, but you’ll be harnessed the entire time, so there is no chance you could fall. It’s an adventure you have to put on your bucket list!

#20 White Water Rafting New River Gorge WV

Suggested by Audra Morris from The Nerd Traveler

Whitewater rafting in one of the newest national parks, the New River Gorge, located outside of Fayetteville, WV, is an adventure of a lifetime and deserves a place on any USA bucket list.

As a side note, as the Nerd Traveler, it must be noted that “New River” is not correctly named since it is thought to be one of the oldest in the world.

The rapids on the New River have various difficulty levels that can accommodate any desired level of adventure. The southern part of the river, called Upper, has easier rapids known as Class I-Class III. The northern part of the river, Lower, has more difficult rapids known as Class III to Class V.

Getting to the New River Gorge and the whitewater rafting depends on the selected excursion provider. River Expeditions has wonderfully guided tours with varying difficulty levels, including much calmer rapids for families.  

The New River season runs from April to October but is most refreshing in summer. River Expeditions also has various lodging options, including cabins, an RV Park, and places to camp. You can also consider staying at La Quinta Inn and Suites.

When out on the river, remember to listen to the guides. If you tip out of your boat, the guidance is not to struggle under the water; let go of your paddles and let your life vest do the work. It is normal to feel a bit panicked if you tip over, but remember you are surrounded by qualified professionals there to help and know what to do.

Whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge is an amazing way to have an unforgettable adventure while exploring this gorgeous National Park in southern West Virginia.

Closing Notes

The USA offers endless possibilities for adventure seekers, from coast to coast and everywhere. An adventure awaits you in every corner of the country. Each destination offers its unique blend of excitement, challenge, and beauty, making it possible to discover something new and thrilling each time you set out. So, pack your gear, plan your route, and dive into the countless experiences that make exploring the USA unforgettable. The thrill of adventure awaits—ready for you to create memories that last a lifetime.

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PIN for later reference – USA’s Adventure Bucket List