Planning your next adventure? Memoir America’s Most Amazing Places Whether you long to experience history, art or nature — alone or with family and friends — the Americas has the most pulse quickening settings on earth. From the urban centers of the United States to undomesticated locales in South America, these are 10 places where all bets are off, and you’re guaranteed to be left with memories that will last a lifetime.
This guide demystifies the must-see destinations on both continents to help you plan your trip with a healthy dose of inspiration, and tells you what makes each destination unique, when you should visit and what not to miss while there.
Why Travel Across the Americas?
Together, the United States and South America make travel paradise that’s difficult to rival anywhere else on earth. From world-class museums and attractions in big cities to scenic wonders that’ll take your breath away, there’s so much on this wonderful planet of ours to explore. The variety of culture is unbelievable—everywhere you go, there’s a different vibe or tradition and story to be heard.
And, what makes traveling in the Americas particularly attractive is the diversity. You can traverse rainforests in the morning and dance to live music in an effervescent city by nightfall. The food scenes are equally fabulous, a culinary stew of native ingredients and global influences mixed together. And traveling between these places is easy enough, with decent flight connections and infrastructure that continues to get better.
The 5 Best American Places to Travel
1. New York City, New York – The City That Never Sleeps
America’s ultimate urban playground is New York City. With more than 8 million residents and countless sites to explore, even NYers learn something new every day. The city’s energy is infectious, dragging you from neighborhood to neighborhood, each with its own unique personality.
What Makes NYC Special:
It mixes well-known landmarks with discoveries that are off the beaten path. You can begin your day at the Empire State Building, take in a Broadway show during the afternoon and end the night with pizza in Brooklyn. Central Park is a green getaway smack-dab in the heart of Manhattan, and museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art have offerings that span thousands of years.
When to Go:
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) feature great weather with picturesque backdrop. In summer, there are festivals along with crowds and heat; in winter, magical holiday decorations.
Must-Do Activities:
- Step foot on Brooklyn Bridge during sunrise
- Check out other neighborhoods: Greenwich Village, Chinatown, Harlem
- See the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
- Board the Staten Island Ferry for free views of the Statue of Liberty
- Explore Chelsea Market and the High Line
Budget Tip: Some museums have “pay what you wish” hours. The city also offers free walking tours that offer great historical context.
2. The Grand Canyon, Arizona – A Masterpiece of Nature
The Grand Canyon is not just a giant hole in the ground; it’s an extraordinary geological showcase of almost two billion years of Earth history. Watching the colors shift as the sun moves overhead from the rim, you realize why nearly five million people come each year.
What Makes The Grand Canyon Special:
The sheer scale is mind-blowing. The canyon runs 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide and down more than a mile deep. The Colorado River dug out this landscape over millions of years, leaving behind layers of colorful rock that lay bare tales of ancient seas, deserts and forests.
When to Go:
In spring and fall it enjoys the right temperatures. Summer is blazing at the canyon floor (over 100°F), meanwhile winter can be snowy, with road closures.
Must-Do Activities:
- Hike the Bright Angel Trail (The first mile alone is full of breathtaking views)
- See the sunrise or sunset at Mather Point
- Get a bird’s eye view with a helicopter tour
- Visit the Desert View Watchtower
- Try mule rides along the rim
Insider Tip: The South Rim is open year-round and has the most amenities. The North Rim is quieter but it closes mid-October to mid-May.
3. New Orleans, Louisiana – Where Music Meets Culture
There’s no place quite like New Orleans. This city mingles French, Spanish, African and American traditions in a way that is all its own. Life is a celebration in New Orleans, whether you’re hanging out at jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street or admiring the historic architecture of the French Quarter.
What Makes New Orleans Special:
This city has its soul in three things — music, food and festivals. Jazz was born here, and each night you’ll hear it spill out from clubs. The cooking draws on Creole and Cajun heritage, so dishes taste like no others. Even the burial grounds can be entertaining, the aboveground tombs a match for the city’s unusual relationship to its swampland.
When to Go:
The best weather (and Mardi Gras) is found from February to May. Fall (September-November) sees fewer crowds and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience festival.
Must-Do Activities:
- Discover the French Quarter and Jackson Square
- Eat beignets at Café du Monde
- Ride the streetcar on St. Charles line
- Visit during a festival (Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, French Quarter Fest)
- Visit a plantation on the River Road
- Listen to live music on Frenchmen Street
Can’t-Miss Food: Gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, muffuletta sandwiches and pralines.
4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho – First National Park in the World
Yellowstone feels like you’re on another planet. Geysers send boiling water into the air, hot springs shimmer in rainbow colors, and wildlife roams free across enormous valleys. As America’s first national park (designated in 1872), Yellowstone harbors the earth’s most dynamic volcano system.
What Makes Yellowstone Special:
The park averages more than 10,000 hydrothermal features — more than any place on this planet. Old Faithful goes off about every 90 minutes, but it is just a single geyser. The Grand Prismatic Spring is an otherworldly site with its vibrant blue, green and orange hues. The wildlife is out of this world, once in a lifetime to see bison, bears, elk, wolves, etc.
When to Go:
Summer (June-September) offers the best weather and all facilities open in summer, however, summer is the busiest visiting time. Spring is for baby animals, fall is wildlife getting ready for winter.
Must-Do Activities:
- Watch Old Faithful erupt
- Drive the Grand Loop Road
- Hiking to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Catch wildlife-spotting in Lamar Valley at sunrise
- Hike the overlook trail above Grand Prismatic Spring
- Check out the Old Faithful Inn
Important: Keep a safe distance from wildlife at all times. Bison and bears are dangerous — keep at least 25 yards from bison and 100 yards from bears.
5. Miami, Florida – Art Deco Style and Excitement on the Beaches
Miami is a tropical cocktail of beach life, international culture and all night parties. This city has all the pizzazz of a Latin beat, with a touch of Cuban, Colombian and Venezuelan vibe. The climate is warm all day every day, so it’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers alike.
What Makes Miami Special:
South Beach blends the art deco architecture with hip restaurants and beautiful beaches. The Wynwood Walls has the most amazing street art, turning a warehouse district into an outdoor museum. The diversity of Miami’s population is well represented in its food scene, with authentic Latin American eateries complemented by fusion innovation.
When to Go:
December-May are the drier months with comfortable weather. Summer means heat and humidity — and often afternoon thunderstorms — but it also has lower hotel prices.
Must-Do Activities:
- Ward off the heat on South Beach or Key Biscayne
- Discover the Art Deco Historic District
- Walk through Wynwood Walls
- Experience Cuban culture and food in Little Havana
- Embark on a boat tour of Biscayne Bay
- Hit up Miami’s party scene in South Beach or Brickell
Day Trip Option: The Florida Keys are an easy drive away, and Key West has a laid-back island feel and amazing snorkeling.
The 5 South American Destinations You Need to Visit
1. Machu Picchu, Peru – The Lost City of the Incas
Machu Picchu is South America’s most famous site. Located on a rock-strewn cliff about 8,000 feet above sea level amid cloud forest in the Andes Mountains, this 15th-century Inca citadel. Rediscovered in 1911, these ruins still intrigue visitors with its enigmatic past and beautiful setting.
What Makes Machu Picchu Special:
Modern day engineers marvel at the accuracy of Inca stonework. Huge boulders interlock without mortar, and the site is astronomically aligned. The setting itself is simply unbelievable — how did the Incas construct such an elaborate city in a jagged mountain ridge? Theories for what that purpose might have been vary from royal estate to a sacred religious site.
When to Go:
May-September (dry season) is the best weather, but also the busiest. The rainy season (November-March) brings afternoon showers but fewer crowds and lush, green landscapes.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit the ruins with an authorized guide
- Climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for bird’s-eye views
- Watch sunrise over the ruins
- Head to the neighboring town of Aguas Calientes
- Ride the scenic train through the Sacred Valley
Getting There: Most visitors enter by train from Cusco or Ollantaytambo. The four-day Inca Trail hike to get here is amazing but you usually need to book months in advance.
2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – “Cidade Maravilhosa” or “Marvelous City”
There was a reason Rio de Janeiro gained its nickname “Cidade Maravilhosa” (Marvelous City). An urban metropolis with dramatic natural beauty and infectious energy. Mountains jut up from the ocean, providing breathtaking backdrops for beaches, neighborhoods and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
What Makes Rio Special:
This contrast between urban experience and the natural world makes Rio so very…RIO! You can surf in the morning, hike through rainforest in the afternoon and dance at a samba club that night. “Cariocas,” or Rio residents, are passionate about life, whether kicking a soccer ball on the beach, partying in the streets or hanging with friends at a churrasco.
When to Go:
December-March (summer) ushers in hot weather and Carnival. April–September: Cooler and less crowded.
Must-Do Activities:
- Visit Christ the Redeemer statue
- Ride the cable car up to Sugarloaf Mountain
- Chill out at Copacabana and Ipanema beaches
- Attend Carnival (if you are there in February)
- Wander the historic quarter of Santa Teresa
- See a game at the Maracanã
Safety Tip: Always be conscious of your surroundings, do not display any expensive items and try to stay on touristy parts of town, particularly at night.
3. Patagonia – Argentina & Chile: The End of the World
Patagonia is one of the last wild frontiers to be found on Earth. This massive region in Argentina and Chile is punctuated by snow-capped mountains, colossal glaciers, turquoise lakes and windswept plains. Wildlife abounds; penguins and whales mingle with guanacos and condors.
What Makes Patagonia Special:
The landscapes look prehistoric. The towers of Torres Del Paine — three huge granite slivers — thrust dramatically out of the plains. The 19-mile-long Perito Moreno Glacier is a glacier that calves icebergs into Lago Argentino and is still advancing. The remoteness also adds to the appeal, you feel like some intrepid explorer stumbling upon these places for the first time.
When to Go:
November-March (Southern Hemisphere summer) with its warmest temperatures and extended daylight hours. December to February are crowded, so try November or March for less crowding.
Must-Do Activities:
- Trek the W Trek in Torres del Paine
- Watch Perito Moreno Glacier calve
- Meet the penguins of Punta Tombo or Isla Magdalena
- Trek on Grey Glacier
- Travel to Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city
- Watch the whales in Peninsula Valdés
Packing Essential: Patagonia has swiftly changing weather. Attack this type of weather “as if you’re going into a snowstorm,” in layers, waterproof gear and windproof clothing — even in summer.
4. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador – Darwin’s Natural Laboratory
The Galápagos Islands provide wildlife sightings that are unparalleled anywhere on Earth. These volcanic islands are located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, where animals evolved in isolation from humanity. Darwin formulated his theory of evolution after a visit here in 1835.
What Makes Galápagos Special:
The animals here behave as though humans don’t exist. Sea lions might snuggle onto your beach towel, marine iguanas heat up on walking paths and blue-footed boobies dance the hokey-pokey right in front of you. Each island has its own set of species, making it a natural laboratory for evolution.
When to Go:
The islands provide year-round wildlife watching. The December–May (warm/wet) season offers calmer seas and clearer snorkeling; June–November (cool/dry) showcases more active wildlife and better diving visibility.
Must-Do Activities:
- Swim with sea lions, penguins and sea turtles
- Travel to other islands to observe special kinds
- Hike volcanic landscapes
- Meet giant tortoises in the highlands of Santa Cruz
- Dive Gordon Rocks or Wolf and Darwin islands
- Kayak along coastlines
Good to Know: Tourism is highly regulated in order to protect this delicate ecosystem. A certified guide is required for most areas, and visitor numbers are restricted.
5. Cartagena, Colombia – Jewel of the Colonial Caribbean
Cartagena melds colonial history, Caribbean beaches and contemporary culture. Once Spain’s most important port in the Americas, this coastal city still has an impressively preserved old town. Colorful buildings, cobblestone streets and centuries-old fortifications lend a romantic feel.
What Makes Cartagena Special:
The old city, surrounded by walls, is a step back in time. Colonial balconies overrun with bougainvillea, fruit for sale from street vendors, musicians performing in the plazas. It’s more than history in Cartagena, it’s white sandy beaches on idyllic islands, epic restaurants and a party that refuses to stop. The city strikes a quaint tone in preserving its past yet welcoming of today’s modern Colombian culture.
When to Go:
December-April offers dry conditions and pleasant temperatures. July-August offers another dry window. Avoid October-November (rainiest months).
Must-Do Activities:
- Take a stroll through the streets of the walled city
- Check out fortress Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- Hire a boat to take you out to the Rosario Islands for snorkeling
- Catch the sunset at Café del Mar
- Hang out in Getsemaní for murals and nightlife
- Sample ceviche fresh from the fish market
Local Tip: Reserve a dinner in one of the colonial mansions of the old town at a restaurant for an unforgettable experience.
Planning Your Trip: Practical Comparison
| Destination | Best For | Budget Level | Ideal Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | Culture, Entertainment | High | 4-5 days |
| Grand Canyon | Nature, Photography | Medium | 2-3 days |
| New Orleans | Food, Music | Medium | 3-4 days |
| Yellowstone | Wildlife, Geothermal | Medium | 3-5 days |
| Miami | Beaches, Nightlife | Medium-High | 3-4 days |
| Machu Picchu | History, Adventure | Medium-High | 3-4 days |
| Rio de Janeiro | Beaches, Culture | Medium | 4-5 days |
| Patagonia | Hiking, Adventure | High | 7-10 days |
| Galápagos Islands | Wildlife | Very High | 5-7 days |
| Cartagena | History, Beaches | Low-Medium | 3-4 days |
How To Maximize Your Journey
Combine Destinations Smartly
Amazing itineraries can be developed by grouping nearby destinations. Consider these pairings:
- U.S. West: Grand Canyon + Yellowstone + more national parks
- U.S. East: New York + Washington DC + Philadelphia
- Peru: Machu Picchu + Lima + Amazonian Rainforest
- Southern South America: Patagonia + Buenos Aires + Chilean wine country
- Colombia: Trip begins in Cartagena, continues to Medellín and ends up on Bogotá
Budget Considerations
Travel expenses at these places are quite different. The priciest are the Galápagos Islands, which of course necessitate flights from mainland Ecuador and relatively costly cruise or land-based packages. New York City and Miami are also expensive, particularly when considering lodging.
Meanwhile, Cartagena and New Orleans offer a superb return on investment. You’ll be able to stay in budget hotels, eat street food on the cheap and do plenty of activities for little or no cost. Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon charge entrance fees, but both provide inexpensive lodging to visitors who plan ahead.
Language Tips
English is supreme in the United States, but Spanish is widely spoken in Miami and parts of the Southwest. Among the South American countries, Spanish is spoken in all of them, except Brazil (Portuguese). Knowing a few words and phrases definitely enriches your trip, and makes local people to respect you for trying. Translation apps facilitate communication, of course, but having a hard-copy phrasebook serves as a kind of backup.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
U.S. Destinations:
- Summer (June-August): Best for national parks, though you’ll deal with crowds and inflated prices
- Winter (December-February): Unusually cool for Miami; cold or snow elsewhere
- Shoulder Seasons (Spring/Fall): Great for most places with good prices & weather
South American Destinations:
Don’t forget that the seasons are opposite to North America.
- December-March: A South American summer; ideal for Patagonia and the Galápagos
- June–September: Winter; perfect for Machu Picchu and Cartagena
- All year: Rio de Janeiro, although the best beach weather falls in summer
Cultural Experiences Not to Miss
And cultural immersion experiences other than tourist sites are available at each destination:
In the U.S.:
- Take part in a New Orleans jazz funeral
- See a Broadway show in NYC
- Attend a cowboy cookout at the Grand Canyon
- Attend a ranger-led program in Yellowstone
In South America:
- Tango in Buenos Aires near Patagonia
- Take a cooking class in Cartagena
- Share a Pachamama ceremony in Peru
- Go to a samba school rehearsal in Rio
Safety and Health Considerations
Altitude Sickness: Machu Picchu and Cusco are located at high altitudes. To acclimate, spend a day or two in Cusco before you plan to go to Machu Picchu. Drink lots of water and try coca tea.
Wildlife Safety: Keep a safe distance from animals in Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon. Never feed wildlife. Provide proper storage for food in bear country.
Urban Safety: Use the same precautions as you would in any big city, New York, Miami or Rio. Be vigilant, don’t be ostentatious and research safe areas.
Vaccinations: Review the CDC guidelines, which will apply to many South American destinations. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory in certain regions, and the vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid are advisable.
Sustainable Travel Practices
These amazing places require protection for future generations:
- Respect Wildlife: Don’t touch, feed or harass the animals. Keep required distances in the Galápagos.
- Stay on Trails: Preserve fragile habitats by remaining on designated trails, especially in national parks.
- Support Local: Opt for local restaurants, hotels and tour operators when you can.
- Cut Out Plastic: Pack reusable water bottles and bags. The Galápagos prohibits single-use plastics.
- Leave No Trace: Pack it all back out. Rocks, shells or the like should not be taken out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the best destination for families visiting with children?
A: Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon provide great family experiences, with ranger programs created specifically for kids. Miami has the beaches and attractions for kids. The Galápagos is ideal for families who love wildlife, provided the cost isn’t prohibitive.
Q: What do I need budget for a weeklong trip to each destination?
A: Budget costs per person (flights not included):
- New York City: $1,500-2,500
- Grand Canyon: $800-1,200
- New Orleans: $700-1,200
- Yellowstone: $1,000-1,500
- Miami: $1,200-2,000
- Machu Picchu: $1,000-1,800
- Rio de Janeiro: $900-1,500
- Patagonia: $2,000-3,500
- Galápagos: $3,000-5,000+
- Cartagena: $600-1,000
Q: Do I need a visa to travel there?
A: It depends on what country you are from. For U.S. destinations, visitors must have the valid documents according to their nationality. Many tourists can arrive without a visa. For South America, most United States, Canadian and European citizens do not need visas for short tourist stays in Peru, Brazil, Ecuador, Argentina, Chile and Colombia. Be sure to confirm current requirements before you make any bookings.
Q: What is the best place for a solo traveler?
A: Cartagena, New Orleans and Rio de Janeiro all have lively hostel scenes with friendly vibes. In national parks, including Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon, there are rangers to lead programs suitable for solo hiking. There’s tons of stuff to do in NYC and public transportation can’t be beat.
Q: Can I link South American destinations together?
A: Absolutely! South American destinations are easily linkable in and out through major hubs like Lima, Santiago, and Buenos Aires. Fly into one city, fly out through another. Popular routes include Peru-Ecuador-Colombia; Chile to Argentina to Brazil.
Q: When is the best time to book my tickets?
A: 2-4 months in advance for most destinations. Exceptions are Machu Picchu where the Inca Trail permits require 6+ months in advance and Galápagos cruises need 3 to 6 months in advance.
Q: Are these destinations available for disabled visitors?
A: The infrastructure varies widely. New York City, Miami, and New Orleans are great. National parks usually have accessible viewpoints and trails are paved though the backcountry can be extreme. Machu Picchu’s ruins require steep stairs, but adjustments can probably be arranged. Always check with them on how they accommodate your specific needs.
Q: Which South American destination are safe for my first trip?
A: Cartagena and Galápagos are the two safest destinations on this list—they have very stable tourist infrastructure, and the crime in tourist areas is rare. Patagonia is also very safe simply because of how few people are around, but hiking requires proper outdoor skills.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
The Americas are the most diverse place on Earth, from the geysers of Yellowstone to the paradise beaches of Cartagena, from New York skyscrapers to the wild mountains of Patagonia. Each of the destinations on this list will challenge, inspire, and change you.
Figure out which place resonates with your interests the most. Into history? Go to Cartagena and Machu Picchu. Into wildlife? Yellowstone and Galápagos. Culture? Go to Rio and New Orleans. Nature and outdoor adventure – visit Patagonia and Grand Canyon.
Travel is more than ticking off bucket list items, remember. It is about connecting with places, interpreting diverse cultures and making stories that stay with you for years. These 10 spots set the scene for your next chapter.
Whether you are planning your first trip abroad or your 50th, these extraordinary locales throughout North and South America offer the opportunity for a lifetime of adventure. So pack your bags, book a ticket and get ready to experience the most beautiful places on Earth.
Your adventure starts NOW — which destination will YOU visit FIRST?
