Europe is always at the top of travelers’ minds for the ultimate escape. The entire continent never ceases to lose its charm in fulfilling travelers’ desire to get away.
Cities with unique architecture not found in the States, timeless cobblestone streets, savory sidewalk cafes, and so much more.
But one place in particular used to be deemed off-the-beaten path. This stunning country has become more mainstream for many reasons, and this summer proves it’s a top destination in Europe.
The magnificent country of Iceland has broken pre-COVID tourism records this summer, according to recent reports from June statistics.
Foreign tourists are flocking here in droves, making up 77% of the new record. In total, Iceland has had over 4 million total visitors in 2023.
Here are 6 reasons why this stunning European Country is having a record-breaking summer for tourism:
A One-Of-A-Kind Gateway Into Europe
Iceland has become a lot more popular than it used to be. This is in part due to their low-cost airline, Play, which recently celebrated its one-millionth passenger.
Formerly WOW Air, which has since ceased operations, the brand was revived and rebranded as Play. The low-cost carrier offers nonstop flights from many major U.S. airports at a very affordable price.
The airline runs sales throughout the year for travelers making Iceland their mainstay or off to other Play destinations, such as Paris, London, Madrid, and many more.
Amazing Natural Attractions
There is no place quite like Iceland. The closest match might be the country’s lesser-listed neighbor – the Faroe Islands.
You name it, and Iceland probably has it:
Black sand beaches – check.
Immaculate waterfalls – check.
Geysers – check.
Volcanoes – check.
An island dedicated to puffins – check.
Sunsets on a postcard-worthy beach at 1am – check.
These just scratch the surface. Iceland has truly amazing landscapes with breathtaking scenery all over the country.
No matter if you’re wandering the vast greenery or checking out the black sand beaches of Vik, it’s all worth the adventure.
Quirky Airbnb’s
Tourism statistics show Iceland’s Airbnbs welcomed over 200,000 guests in June alone. Keep in mind this is a country with a population of less than 400,000 people.
That goes to show how much of a travel hotspot Iceland has become. There are some truly unique stays available at Iceland’s Airbnbs.
Some are sleek condos in the charming capital city of Reykjavik. Others are Lord-of-the-Rings-esque cottages in towns you can’t pronounce. (Say “Hverageroi” 5 times fast!)
Summer Weather Is Better
It’s a common joke amongst locals to say Greenland and Iceland should have switched names. Iceland is very green, but it fits its bitter-cold reputation in the winter.
With such high demand for travelers now, many patently wait for summer to come around to be able to enjoy their visit more.
It’s simply less to pack and less to worry about. Winters can reach the negatives (in Fahrenheit), while summers are much more manageable, with average temperatures in the 50s.
No Better Place For Solo Travel
Iceland is about as perfect as could be for solo travelers. The country is one of the safest places in the world, and Reykjavik is home to cushy hostels for a home base to explore the country’s stunning nature.
Road trips are highly popular here. It’s easy to meet fellow travelers to join forces or go at it alone to see all the natural wonders.
Many make it a bucket-list item to complete the Ring Road (also known as Route 1), which is a long loop circling most of the country.
While you may run into the crowds at certain stopping points, Iceland is an excellent choice for those seeking to find inner peace and embrace solitude.
The Blue Lagoon has long been one of Iceland’s famed attractions, even before the country has been in the spotlight.
This stunning natural wonder is a must when visiting Iceland and is perfect for every type of traveler. Flying solo, a couples retreat, or a group outing with friends will all make for a memorable outing.
It’s a year-round destination perfect for a summer getaway but also suitable for dreary winters since the waters are always warm.
For those unaware, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa set in a lava field in southwestern Iceland. The spa is open later hours until midnight in the summer months.
Travelers wandering where they should go next may just have their answer. Thailand has long been a bucket list dream for many travelers, and the country stays busy with tourists year after year.
The bustling city of Bangkok is worth a trip in itself, where you never know where the night will take you.
Or if being outdoors in Beach Mode is more your vibe, many go to the world-famous beaches, whether it’s Phuket, Krabi or secret off-the-beaten-path getaways.
The secret is coming out now for this up-and-coming destination along the coast. It is expected to become a travel hotspot by the end of the year.
Sichon is a small coastal village in southern Thailand and will soon be ready to embrace tourists with open arms.
Here are 6 reasons why Sichon is the next travel hotspot in Asia:
A Top 10 Beach In The Country
We have all Googled what to do, where to go, and what to see on our next trip. Or maybe the trip hasn’t been booked yet.
In other words, we have probably found ourselves on Lonely Planet. The mega-popular travel site has been a mainstay for travelers for a long time, and many value their opinion.
They ranked Sichon Beach as a top 10 beach in all of Thailand with its tranquil atmosphere and stunning backdrop of the Khao Luang mountain range.
And who wouldn’t want to swim with pink dolphins? As nice as it is, this place is off the radar to a lot of travelers.
However, that is about to change. Soon, it will be much easier to reach.
New International Terminal At Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport
Nakhon Si Thammarat Airport has been serving Asia since the 90s but has only offered domestic flights within Thailand’s borders.
When the airport is set to open by year’s end, it will be so much easier to connect. As it stands now, you have to connect in Bangkok and take a lesser-known airline to get here or very lengthy ground transportation.
There is no official word on which airlines will be coming to the new terminal.
Unspoiled Nature
Every traveler has a niche. Some are magnetized by the never-ending skyscrapers of a place like Dubai, while others are completely blown away by unspoiled nature.
Sichon fits the bill for the latter and will be one of the main draws for travelers willing to give this region a fair shake.
“Far from the tourist crowds, this is life in southern Thailand as it was 30 years ago – naturally beautiful, culturally authentic and perfectly peaceful.”
-Ravi Chandran, Senior Advisor to Urasaya, a residential and hospitality development concept
Home to gorgeous mountains, beaches, and trails that lead to waterfalls, travelers will instantly fall in love with what nature has to offer here.
In fact, the breathtaking Khao Luang mountains are home to hundreds of types of orchids and hundreds of species of wildlife.
A Place To Avoid Crowds
If you told a friend you were going to Thailand, and they might respond with, “Nice! Where are you headed?”. When you reply with “Sichon”, you might get a confused look.
But if you replied, “Bangkok”, you would get a seal of approval. That’s because everybody knows it. Sichon, on the other hand, is lesser known and a great place to escape the crowds.
Travelers are setting tourism records from Texas to the Middle East and just about any other continent.
If Thailand is on your travel wishlist, this is the perfect place to have it to yourself before it becomes mainstream.
Experience A New Side Of Thailand’s Culture
Just as this region’s nature is unspoiled, so is the culture. Travelers who come here can get a true taste, both figuratively and literally, of southern Thailand’s way of life.
Whether it’s perusing the beachfront markets full of local vendors or taking a walk through the unique coconut groves, visitors will not be disappointed.
It’s a far cry from Thailand’s larger cities, and that is what Sichon is banking on travelers wanting to experience.
A City Over 1,200 Years Old
Nakhon Si Thammarat is the capital of the province and is rich in heritage and culture. It’s a must-add to your Sichon itinerary.
Basically anywhere in Thailand, travelers can find awesome Buddhist temples to visit. But the temple here is special.
Wat Phra Mahathat is the country’s oldest temple dating back to the 13th century, and will leave you in awe with its architecture and history.
When most Americans think of jetting off to a tropical paradise, they probably think of places like Jamaica, Cancun, or The Bahamas. But did you know there is a stunning tropical destination close to home that you don’t need to pack your passport for?
For Americans itching to get a taste of the tropics without leaving the country, they don’t have to look far, as the perfect destination lies within easy reach — The Florida Keys 🌴.
Combining several incredible destinations in one, The Florida Keys deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list.
From the snorkellable Key Largo to the quirky Key West, there are endless opportunities to make your tropical dreams come true in The Florida Keys.
The Perfect Florida Keys Itinerary
There are so many incredible places to stay when visiting the Keys it can be difficult to pick one. The easy solution to this is, of course, to pick them all! There is something in The Keys for everyone, and every Key is worth checking out.
It’s also incredibly easy to see everything The Florida Keys has to offer without breaking the bank.
For the ultimate Keys trip, we highly suggest flying into Miami, renting a car, and road-tripping through The Keys. Best of all, there’s no need to make the trek back to Miami when the vacation sadly comes to an end. Simply drop your rental car off at Key West International Airport and fly home from there!
Key Largo & Islamorada
The first stop on your adventure will be Key Largo, one of the best places to call home for a few nights on a journey through the Keys.
For a perfect spot to call home base, you can’t go wrong by checking into the Reefhouse Resort & Marina.
The resort is central to Key Largo’s top attractions, like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and it has plenty to do on the property, with an amazing pool, a private beach, and delicious food. Plus, you’re only a few minutes away from Islamorada, meaning you can experience 2 Keys in one during a stay at the Reefhouse Resort.
One of the top things to do in Key Largo (and the rest of the Keys for that matter) is to go diving or snorkeling. Don’t worry if you forgot your mask; the Reefhouse Resort & Marina has a dive shop right on site!
Get Underwater
Speaking of diving, don’t let yourself pass on the opportunity to get underwater while in Key Largo. This area is home to some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling spots in the U.S. and is not to be missed!
If you have never tried scuba diving and want to learn, there is no place better. If you are already certified, you will love getting to explore the unique underwater landscape the Keys provides.
The average depth when diving in the keys doesn’t typically go beyond 30 feet or so, meaning you’ll be able to spend plenty of time on the bottom saying hello to sting rays and turtles.
If you’re wondering where to try diving, give Horizon Divers a call and tell them what you are looking for. You can easily get yourself on a morning 2-tank dive to explore the shallow reefs and shipwrecks in the Upper Keys National Sanctuary, and you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
You will not go hungry in the Keys. There are so many incredible places to grab a bite to eat that we could write a novel listing them all out. However, there are a few that you definitely shouldn’t miss! Key Largo has one of the best places to grab a bite, the famous Fish House.
The Fish House has locally sourced seafood that is to die for, all served in a quirky “keys-style” restaurant. Just give them a visit and you’ll see what we mean. This is the perfect spot to grab lunch after a morning dive and it should definitely be on your list of must-dos.
Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to grab some photos with friends and family.
If you are staying at the Reefhouse or somewhere nearby, be sure to schedule an afternoon/evening to visit Islamorada. This is the Key directly below Key Largo and is close enough that you can check it out without having to swap hotels.
There are 2 things you definitely need to add to your list of must-dos in Islamorada, and both are delicious.
Firstly, no visit to the Keys is complete without spending some time at The Florida Keys Brewing Company. As you can imagine, space is a prized commodity in the Keys, which is part of what makes this brewery so special.
The Florida Keys Brewing Company brews all of their beer right on-site and is one of the only local breweries that can truly say their beer is made right in the Keys.
Aside from how incredible the beer is, the property itself is eclectic and inviting. Everyone you meet will be friendly and nice, and you’ll be surrounded by incredible artwork, amazing beer, and a welcoming vibe.
After a beer or two, you’ll feel like a regular and probably start contemplating a move to the Keys 😅.
After a tour of the brewery, head right across the street for an amazing sunset dinner at Morada Bay Beach Café. This was one of our favorite dinners in the Keys. Not only was the food incredible, it was beautiful. Even your water comes out dressed to the nines!
Morada Bay Beach Café sunset dinner
And not only was the food delicious and beautiful, the scenery was gorgeous as well. We found ourselves pulling out the camera to try to capture the sunset as it would paint a different picture of the evening for you every few minutes.
If you want to feel like you are eating dinner in a beautiful painting, this is the place to do it.
Heading South
The upper Keys are beautiful, and we already can’t wait to go back, but you are missing out on some of the most iconic sights in the Keys if you end your adventure there.
After spending some time checking out Key Largo and Islamorada, be sure to pencil in a few days to head down the most beautiful stretch of highway in the U.S. to Key West.
Overseas Highway in The Florida Keys
And there’s no need to rush; there are great places to stop off for a bite to eat or take in the scenery along the way.
We left right at around lunchtime, so we made a stop in Islamorada for a delicious meal at the Oceanside Safari Restaurant and Lounge — be sure to try their special Mojito with fresh mint!
It’s the perfect way to cap off your lunch and will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed.
Oceanside Safari Restaurant and Lounge Mojito
On your way down to Key West, you may find yourself staring out of the window at the ocean around you.
There is no other highway in the U.S. that gives quite the same feeling as the Overseas highway, and you’ll be glad you decided to drive through the Keys.
Be sure to stop off at the end of a bridge or two to take it all in and grab some photos.
Before you make it all the way to Key West, consider stopping at Bahia Honda State Park for a beach break. There are award-winning beaches and gorgeous stretches of sand to set up camp for a few hours. If you have snorkeling gear, definitely be sure to explore what’s in the water as well!
Pick The Perfect Hotel For You
After catching some sun and sand, you’ll be ready to head into Key West to your hotel (of which there are plenty!).
Depending on what you are looking for during your stay in Key West, there are tons of hotel options to suit your needs. Much of Key West’s action is centered around Duval Street, so if you are coming for the nightlife that may be where you want to look.
However, we wanted to be close enough to the action to enjoy all Key West has to offer without being right in the thick of it. We wanted to enjoy Key West but stay somewhere that felt like its own secluded area away from the rest of the island.
The Capitana Key West was the perfect place to call home that achieved exactly what we were looking for.
From the second you check in you can feel the calm and relaxing energy of The Capitana.
If you are staying in the main hotel building, you’ll have incredible views of the pool and beach from your room, but for a more intimate experience, we opted for the Two Bedroom Cottage.
Many people who come to Key West dream of packing up and moving there after visiting. Staying in a cottage allows you to feel like you already do!
The Capitana Key West Cottage Canal View
The property is a great escape that you could spend your whole trip enjoying if you wanted to, and it is great for every type of traveler and party size.
Spend the afternoon sipping cocktails by the pool or get active and try your hand at some badminton. Either way, you’ll love your stay at The Capitana.
Key West Is Endless Fun
You’ll have trouble deciding what to do with yourself because there are endless opportunities to have an amazing time in Key West, but let us help you out by sharing some can’t-miss experiences:
Sunset Sail
There are plenty of companies offering sunset sails, and if you walk to the Marina, you’ll see signs for all of them. We decided to head out with Sebago Key West and would absolutely do it again!
You’ll head out to the beat of a live musician while the (included) drinks start to flow, and the breeze from the ocean will cool you down before taking in a gorgeous sunset from a unique perspective.
Keep an eye out for dolphins and turtles. If you are patient, you’ll likely spot a few.
Speaking of dolphins, if you’ve never seen them up close and personal, then you should definitely go out on a dolphin watch. We went with Honest Eco, and cannot recommend them enough.
They explained so much about Key West’s dolphin population and you could tell they cared a great deal about the dolphins and making sure the experience was a great one for both humans and dolphins.
We were lucky enough to have some dolphins come right up to our boat to say hello, and it was a bucket list item of mine. I’m a bit of a sucker for animals, and this experience was surreal. I’ve always loved dolphins and been amazed at their intelligence; I’m not ashamed to say I teared up having them so close — there’s no experience quite like it.
If you are on the fence about a dolphin watch, go ahead and book it, especially if heading out with Honest Eco.
The Hemingway House is a classic tourist attraction in Key West, but there’s a good reason for it. The house itself is gorgeous, and the history behind it is fascinating.
Most people know it as Ernest Hemingway’s former home, but before Hemingway owned it, it once belonged to Asa Tift, one of the richest people to ever live in Key West and the most famous wrecker in the area.
Even if the history of the home isn’t your thing, it’s fun to see how many kitties you can spot around the property, all of whom are UNESCO world-heritage protected and allowed to roam the property at will.
Many of the best things to do in Key West are in or on the water, and a kayak tour is one of them.
You’ll see all sorts of wildlife from nurse sharks to starfish, and get to learn about the importance of the mangroves and their significance in the ocean ecosystem.
Kayaking through the mangroves makes you feel completely cut off from the world in the most beautiful way and is an experience you should try at least once. For a one of a kind experience, we went with Lazy Dog Charters.
I can’t stop going on food tours! Seriously, they are the best way to learn about a new destination and a great way to get the lay of the land at the beginning of your trip.
Not only do you learn about the area geographically, but you will also leave with a huge list of all the best places to eat and drink. Aside from the food, you’ll also learn about the culture and history of the area.
In Key West’s case, you’ll never be short on history, culture, or food to sample. Around every corner, there is another story waiting to be told and a new one ready to unfold. There is so much fascinating history in Key West, and it is certainly one of the most unique places in the U.S.
To get the most out of this experience, we went with Key West Food Tours, and the tour did not disappoint.
We said above that you wouldn’t go hungry in the Upper Keys, and the same holds true in Key West. There are a million food options that are all incredible, each with their own unique Key West flair. Certainly don’t restrict yourself to our list, but some of our favorites include:
Half Shell Raw Bar – If you love oysters, this is your spot! Right in the Marina, you can enjoy your meal knowing you are eating some of the freshest seafood money can buy.
Milagro – Chef Kevin has worked with Michelin Star chefs for most of his career and took that experience to create a restaurant with 5-star cuisine in a casual, bistro environment. The food is deliciously decadent in a more laid-back setting — in true Key West fashion.
Blue Heaven Key West – The most iconic brunch spot in Key West and a definite must. Not only is the food delicious, but you’ll feel like you stepped into another world the second you cross the threshold of the entrance.
No Keys Experience Is The Same
It’s an unfortunate fact of life that every vacation must eventually come to an end, but some destinations are worth endlessly repeating. The Florida Keys is definitely one of them.
There is a reason so many travelers come here time and time again, and every visit to The Keys will reveal something new and exciting.
We loved our time in The Keys and, like so many others, will be coming back the first chance we get!
**Travel Off Path was a guest of The Florida Keys, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**
Did you know it’s possible to skip customs entirely when landing back in the U.S.?
We’re not talking about some unknown loophole either — there are certain countries you can visit that allow you to go through U.S. Customs before taking off back to the States. Then when you land at home, you walk right out of the airport like you would for a domestic flight.
Best of all? One of those countries is one of the most stunning destinations in the Caribbean — ????️ Aruba????.
One Happy Island
If you’ve never been to Aruba, you aren’t alone. Many travelers flock to tourist heavyweights like Cancun or Montego Bay year after year.
But while those destinations are certainly worth returning to, a visit to Aruba might just change your annual vacation habits.
Affectionately called the “one happy island,” Aruba certainly lives up to its nickname. The moment you land on this eternally sunny island, you feel welcome and relaxed before you’ve even made it to your hotel.
Aruba is only about 20 miles long and 6 miles wide, so your ride from the airport to your hotel will be super quick no matter where you are on the island.
Many travelers head to Palm Beach, a breathtaking stretch of sand that many of the most popular resorts call home — including the alluring Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.
If you’ve never been to Aruba, I’d suggest taking your arrival day to unwind on the beach or at your resort. Nobody likes flying half the day away, but as soon as your feet hit the white sands of Aruba, you’ll forget about the time it took to get there.
For a first-time visit (and every visit after, honestly…), one of the best areas to stay is going to be Palm Beach. The beach is about 2 miles long and has everything you could possibly want on a Caribbean vacation.
Watersports, beach bars, restaurants, shops, casinos… you name it — Palm Beach has it.
You won’t ever get bored exploring this stunning stretch of sand, and that’s assuming you even want to leave your resort. When planning my stay, I wanted to be able to get everything I could possibly need without having to leave the resort property. In this case, that property was the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.
While I did leave the resort during my stay, there was no need to. Everything I could possibly want or need was on site and easily accessible.
I realized an hour into my trip I’d forgotten toothpaste, deodorant, nail clippers, and my snorkel gear (amateur move, I know). I walked downstairs and found all 4 quickly and easily!
For a first-time visit to Aruba, the Marriott was a perfect fit, and I’ll definitely be back again the next time I head to Aruba.
The room was incredible, and having morning coffee while looking off the balcony as the sun came up is a memory that will be etched in my brain for the rest of my life.
Of course, one of the highlights of heading to Aruba is going to be its gorgeous white-sand beaches. And when I say white sand, I mean it!
Aruba has some of the whitest sand in the Caribbean and, as a result, never feels hot on the feet. Everything about the sand and the beautiful blue waters screams relaxation and peace of mind.
But Aruba is more than its beaches! Aruba really is a destination for every type of traveler. Art, culture, adventure, nightlife, and more are all at your fingertips and easily accessible from anywhere on the island due to its small size.
Personally, I like to check out the local art scene and do more “off-path” things (yea, I said it).
On a different trip to Puerto Rico, one of my favorite experiences was exploring the amazing street art in Santurce. Little did I know Aruba is also home to absolutely breathtaking street art and murals!
San Nicolas Street Art
Founded in 2016 by Tito Bolivar after being inspired during a visit to Bogota, Colombia, Aruba Mural Tours in the city of San Nicolas offers travelers a glimpse into what’s possible when an idea becomes a sensation.
The first murals went up after the first-ever Aruba Art Fair, and San Nicolas’ fate was sealed.
Now, there are well over 40 murals to enjoy, and everywhere you turn your head, you will be met with art from some of the greatest muralists in the world.
I’d suggest the morning tour, as the sun won’t be as hot, and you can plan to stop and grab some great local fish on the way back to your hotel at Zeerover, a restaurant on a picturesque pier that looks out on the unbelievably blue waters where your fresh meal just came from.
There is no better way to truly get off path than by heading into the desert! I wasn’t aware that Aruba had a desert until a few days before my trip, but it’s definitely worth exploring.
Most of my experience of the Caribbean is from the time I spent living in Grenada, which is very mountainous. You can’t look too far in any direction without seeing a mountain unless you look at the ocean, of course.
In Aruba, you can see for miles. Everything is incredibly flat, and a trip into the desert really shows the unique character of this island.
What is the best way to see it?
A UTV tour! UTVs are different from ATVs; they are like a cross between an ATV, a golf cart, and a car, and they are an absolute blast to drive through the desert! We toured with De Palm Tours, and our guide was hilarious and informative.
During the tour, you’ll stop at several points in the desert to get a bit of history, a chance to stretch your legs, and the option to switch off driving to be a passenger for a while, which is the perfect time to grab some great video!
Pro-tip: Wear some really amazing sunglasses with great coverage, or bring some off-roading goggles. If you don’t have either, they have them for sale before the tour begins. There is no windshield, and there’s a lot of sand in the desert! ????
Go Home With More Than Souvenirs
One of the joys of traveling is coming back with something to remind you of your trip, but you can bring back far more than just a souvenir. Why not go home with new knowledge and an experience that will remind you of your trip again and again?
If you are staying at the Aruba Marriott, you can definitely make it happen. The best way?
I know, I know… you’re on vacation; why would you want to work at something? Don’t worry. The Marriott makes the class so easy on you that all that’s left to do is enjoy the experience (and reap the delicious rewards).
I can confidently say that I will now be eating a local dish from Aruba from the comfort of my own home for many years to come, and it’s such a tasty treat! If you’ve never had a Pastechi, you need to book your tickets to Aruba right now. Seriously, they’re that good ????
The Most Important Decision
Aside from choosing to visit Aruba in the first place, one of the biggest influences on whether you will have a great vacation is going to be where you stay. I touched on it above, and I’ll say it again, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino was the perfect pick for a stress-free vacation with everything I could possibly need while enjoying all that Aruba offers.
From a delicious breakfast on the gorgeous balcony to a picture-perfect afternoon under the ocean-front palapas, the Marriott did not disappoint.
I wasn’t there long enough to try everything, but that just means that I’m more excited to go back for another visit.
In particular, I want to try the Massage de la Aruba at the on-site Mandara Spa and the Desert Bathing experience offered by the Marriott, where you can enjoy a picnic in the desert after a yoga session and some introspection.
To cap off your Aruba adventures, I highly recommend enjoying your last dinner at sunset at Atardi, where you can dine with your feet in the sand in one of the most beautiful settings in the Caribbean.
The view of the sun setting over your delicious dinner on your last night in Aruba will stick with you, and you’ll desperately want to come back the second you leave.
**Travel Off Path was a guest of Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, who helped with the creation of this itinerary by hosting some of our accommodations and attractions. Our opinions, recommendations, and suggestions remain our own.**
Tourists seek out UNESCO World Heritage sites when they are traveling on vacation.
From the Taj Mahal to Stonehenge, these incredible attractions have been deemed influential and significant on a global scale.
But that doesn’t mean you have to travel the globe to find them. There are a whole host of stunning attractions you can visit right here in your own backyard. And you won’t even need a passport!
As of January 2023, there are 1,157 UNESCO World Heritage sites spread across the globe. And 24 of these sites are in the United States, with another 17 American sites currently under consideration for UNESCO status.
Here are ten of the most stunning UNESCO World Heritage site you can visit without leaving the U.S:
1. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone national park was granted UNESCO status in 1978: The first of two locations in the country to be given the honor.
The huge park covers an area of nearly 3,500 square miles and spans across three states. Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.
The most famous attraction in Yellowstone is Old Faithful: a cone geyser with an eruption height of between 106 and 185 ft. The geyser erupts between every 44 minutes and two hours, meaning that you’re sure to see this natural phenomenon on your visit.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
Arizona’s Grand Canyon national park is the most visited national park in the United States and was granted UNESCO status in 1979.
The main attraction of this site speaks for itself: the Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep in parts. Visitors to the national park can also enjoy beautiful hiking trails and incredible views from every angle.
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Independence Hall is considered the birthplace of America and was granted UNESCO status in 1979.
The building is the centerpiece of the Independence National Historical Park and is best known for being the site where both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were signed.
Visitors can take daily guided tours of Independence Hall. As a bonus, Philadelphia is home to a host of other key historical attractions.
4. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
To the untrained eye, Cahokia may look like an array of scattered hills, but this is actually the site of a pre-Columbian Native American city. The largest north of Mexico.
The site occupies approximately 5 square miles and was granted UNESCO status in 1982. When you visit Cahokia Mounds, you can learn more about the religion, culture and trade of the ancient civilization. The location is also popular with hikers.
5. Carlsbad Caverns National Park
The Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico features more than 100 caves. Three of these caves are open to the public. It is considered the most unique national park in the United States and joined the list of UNESCO sites in 1995.
Rare geological formations mean that huge stalactites cling to the roofs of many of the caves, lending them a beautiful, other-worldly feel.
Carlsbad Caverns is one of the most accessible and well-preserved of the world’s cave complexes. Tourists can walk, crawl or climb through the caves here.
6. Chaco Culture National Historical Park
The Chaco Culture National Historical Park is home to a series of culturally significant sites and was granted UNESCO status in 1987.
This heritage site was once home to the Ancestral Puebloans. Within the national park tourists can visit the Aztec Ruins National Moment and several smaller Chaco sites too.
The whole area is rich in heritage. Visitors can explore distinctive architectural remains, as well as the sacred Chaco Canyon.
7. The Statue of Liberty
Considered a symbol of American freedom, the Statue of Liberty is an icon of New York City.
It was granted UNESCO status in 1984 but has sat in New York Harbor for almost 100 years longer than that, having been gifted to the people of America by France in 1886.
The significance of the Statue of Liberty needs very little explanation, but a visit to see it in person is something every American should do at least once in their lifetime.
8. Everglades National Park
Many people head to Florida for the beaches or the theme parks, but if you’re spending your vacation in the State then you should carve out time to visit the Everglades.
Granted UNESCO status in 1979, the Everglades National Park is an endangered ecosystem. Covering an incredible 1.5 million acres, it boasts the largest mangrove ecosystem in the western hemisphere.
The Everglades are also a popular location for alligator spotting and is home to thirteen endangered and ten threatened species.
9. Taos Pueblo
Located in the heart of New Mexico, Taos Pueblo was granted UNESCO status in 1992. Visiting this site feels like stepping back in time.
First constructed during the 13th and 14th centuries, Taos Pueblo is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities across the United States.
The site exposes visitors to over 1,000 years of Native American tradition. As well as exploring the community, tourists can also purchase art and crafts created by the residents.
10. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a scenic heritage site that forms part of a wider group of four national parks, which were each granted Heritage status at different points.
Glacier Bay was listed in 1979, then Kluane and Wrangell–St. Elias were added in 1992 and Tatshenshini-Alsek in 1994. Only Glacier Bay and Wrangell–St. Elias are located in the United States. Both sites are in Alaska, whilst the other national parks are in Canada.
Glacier Bay is a site of outstanding natural beauty year-round. It covers 3.3 million acres, and tourists can explore mountains, glaciers, and even rainforests here.
Spring is approaching, and for many, this turn of the seasons brings about a fresh start and offers the chance to shake off the winter chill and get out and explore. There’s no better way to see the turn of spring and its awakening that it brings to the various regions of the U.S. than by train.
A trip on the rails allows everyone to sit back, relax, and leave the driving to someone else. Rail journeys offer a chance to slow down and appreciate the scenery. This kind of travel is truly one where the journey is just as important as the destination itself. Fans of rail travel will be happy to know that America has some pretty epic journeys, with views from mountains to oceans and everything in between.
As we are now in a post-pandemic time, this is shaping up to be an era where people are not interested in dealing with the headaches that flying brings with it, opting to avoid traveling by air if possible. Now, any American will be the first to tell you that traveling by train in the U.S. is not known for its convenience or affordably, but nevertheless, as America’s main rail operator, Amtrak’s popularity is rising again. Ridership among the Northeast corridor has more than doubled, and passenger numbers are up more than 88% across the rest of the country.
With Amtrak’s recent announcement of their new Airo train fleet that will start to replace the aging trains currently in use, there are more reasons than ever to love American train travel.
The future of Amtrak is meant to transform U.S. train travel with upgrades, including enhanced lighting, spacious seating, bigger panoramic windows, self-serve food and beverage options, a greener impact, better technology, and faster speeds of up to 125 miles an hour. While high-speed train travel might be a distant dream of the future in America, it’s clear that Amtrak’s upgrades are a step in the right direction.
So in celebration of spring and the promising future of U.S. train travel, here are 8 stunning train trips to take along America’s rails this spring.
Pacific Surfliner
Riders along this Southern California coastline route will enjoy hours of ocean views, vineyards, mountains, and endless beaches. Along the way, you will pass over 20 towns from San Diego to San Luis Obispo.
Stop off in the quintessential So-Cal town of San Juan Capistrano, and dine at the trackside restaurant that also serves up a Pacific Surfliner-themed entree. Stop in Anaheim for a trip to world famous Disney World, and head to the beach in Ventura. Finish your trip in San Luis Obispo and enjoy this laid-back atmosphere with wineries and a thriving culinary scene before heading back home.
Many people who know about Alaska will tell you that there is nothing quite like springtime in the last frontier. While Alaska has no shortage of train offerings year round, including the famed Aurora Winter Train, Spring also offers a chance to ride the rails and take in some epic views.
The return of springtime means the Alaskan Coastal Classic train is ready to welcome passengers again to whisk them among some of Alaska’s most stunning scenery.
This route heads from Anchorage to Seward, making a stop in Girdwood along the way. Offering a first-class GoldStar service, the cars have dome seating, although regular class doesn’t miss out on panoramic windows as well.
Travel along the Chugach Mountain Range and pass Beluga Point. This train is renewed for offering numerous chances to spot some of Alaska’s famous wildlife as well, so make sure to keep your eyes open to spot moose, bears, eagles, and goats.
California Zephyr
This route starts in Chicago and terminates in San Francisco, passing through Omaha, Denver, and Salt Lake City. Rail lovers who know their stuff often say that this is one of the most beautiful train trips in North America, which given the competition from the stunning Canadian routes, is really saying something.
Set off from the windy city and cross the Nebraska plains and Rocky mountains. Arrive approximately 51 hours later in San Francisco just in time to soak up the fresh sea misty filled air. May is a good choice for this route, as crowds are smaller than they are in the high seasons of fall and winter.
Ethan Allen Express
This 7-and-a-half-hour trip takes riders from big-city life to small-town charm, all while passing some beautiful scenery along the way. Start your journey in the middle of Manhattan, New York City at Penn Stations’ new Moynihan Train Hall. After filling up on the restaurant-quality food hall, you board your train and sit back and relax along the views of the Hudson river.
With the winter landscape starting to thaw and greenery beginning to peak though, the journey will be just as enjoyable as the destination. Pass through New York’s state capital of Albany and on to Rutland, Vermont. Enjoy the spring wildflowers and arrive at the picture-perfect small town of Burlington, Vermont, where there is no end of things to do.
Rocky Mountaineer: Rockies to the Red Rocks
This is easily one of the train routes that is a trip in itself, allowing passengers to spend two days on the rails among the postcard-worthy landscapes of Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah. Cross the deserts and rock formations, and cross the continental divide, all from the comfort of your extra roomy seats and panoramic windows.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a Silver Leaf service package, with three restaurant-quality meals a day and customized service. This luxury route is enjoyable any time of year, and those visiting in May will find lower prices than the rest of the months.
Grand Canyon Railway
This famed railway was first built in 1901 to connect suppliers and passengers from Williams, Arizona to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. It’s been a popular route, with people enjoying the 65-mile postcard-worthy trip.
Nowadays, the Grand Canyon Railway sets off from the original Williams Depot and drops passengers just next to the rim at the Grand Canyon Depot. Many passengers opt to stay at the prestigious Grand Canyon Hotel after a train ride full of cowboy characters and western musicians. While the Grand Canyon is a year-round destination, spring temperatures are mild and make visiting this landmark a much more enjoyable experience than a summertime trip would be.
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Recognized as the world’s highest cog railroad, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a relaxing trip to the top of Pikes Peak and sweeping views upon reaching the top. While Pikes Peak was originally only accessible by mule-back, this Colorado attraction in Manitou Springs was built in 1891 as a more civilized way of getting to the top of the famous mountain.
While it was shut for a few years to undergo extensive upgrading and modernization, the railway reopened in 2021 and is more popular than ever before. This tourist attraction is open year-round, and spring is an ideal time to explore the area and hike in the mild temperatures with fewer crowds than in peak months.
The Adirondack Train
This picturesque trip from New York to Montreal has recently resumed operation after a long hiatus, and this spring is the perfect time to hop aboard. This 10-hour trip starts in New York City and takes passengers up along the Hudson River, through Hudson Valley’s wine country, past Saratoga Springs and the Adirondack Mountains, crosses the border into Canada, and heads up to Montreal.
While arguably the most beautiful time of year for this trip would be fall, the peak foliage does bring bigger crowds and a greater likelihood of tickets selling out. Spring can be a beautiful time to ride this route as well, though, with the wildflowers across the valley and the return of greenery along the edges of the mountains.
