With 50 states, stretching from freezing Alaska to tropical Hawaii, the USA offers plenty of spots for fun family holidays and relaxing getaways. But where do you want to visit next? From majestic mountain towns to sunny seaside spots, here are America's top 2022 destinations according to the Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Awards.
Nestled in the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is one of North Carolina’s largest cities, impressing visitors with its vast culture and breathtaking landscape. Eight national and state parks, plus more than 200 waterfalls, are on Asheville's doorstep, making it a top spot for enjoying the great outdoors. Love craft ale? With just under 50 breweries, Asheville has the second-highest number per capita in the country, only topped by Portland, Oregon.
One of Asheville’s most visited landmarks, Biltmore Estate, can be found at the junction of the French Broad and Swannanoa rivers. The grand French Renaissance castle-like house – America's largest privately-owned home – dates back to the 1890s and remains an exceptional example of a Gilded Age mansion. After a walk of the verdant Biltmore lands, head to the city’s lively downtown packed with art galleries, scrumptious food and an exciting music scene.
Self-titled the ‘golf capital of the world’, Florida’s Naples has the most golfing holes in the state, drawing fans of the sport from all around the world to the seaside town. But there is more to the city than its golf ranges – the white-sand beaches and colourful centre make it an ideal holiday destination.
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Settled on the Gulf of Mexico, Naples invites its visitors to enjoy a blend of sophisticated culture and awe-inspiring nature. Spend your days walking along the beach or venture into the storied city centre to shop at Naples' boutiques. Unwind at one of the many beachside restaurants in the evening to watch the sun disappear into the turquoise sea.
The historic hamlet of Talkeetna sits at the foot of Denali, North America’s tallest peak, granting awe-inspiring views of the Alaska Range. Wooden cabins and lodges sit along the Susitna River in this former mining town, which is said to be the inspiration for popular US TV series Northern Exposure.
Thanks to its location between Denali on one side and the river on the other, visitors of Talkeetna have an abundance of outdoor activities to indulge in. Climb the peak, go fly fishing or take to the water with an afternoon of rafting. For a more relaxed stay, take a walk down Main Street which is packed with shops, art galleries, breweries and restaurants.
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As the largest isle in Maine, Mount Desert Island welcomes more than two million visitors each year to its quaint town. The island boasts beautiful coasts as well as saltwater and freshwater lakes. The stunning surroundings are best explored on foot while taking to one of the area's 25 trails. Various national parks are scattered all over the island, with mountains, lakes and gardens treating guests to the perfect nature escape.
During your stay, enjoy watersports such as kayaking, canoeing and fishing – you can also learn more about the destination’s culture by visiting one of its many museums. Don’t forget to make your way to Bass Harbor Head Light. First opened in 1858, Mount Desert Island’s only lighthouse still functions with its 1902 Fresnel lens and is a dreamy place at sunset.
Nestled between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater is said to have some of the best beaches in the US. The beautiful seaside town is the ideal family destination with a walkable downtown, sandy coasts and an aquarium that’s home to dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, otters and many more fascinating sea creatures.
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A water activities paradise, Clearwater offers boat cruises, paddle boarding, windsurfing and even whale watching. Between its quaint streets, you can discover museums and art galleries while charming restaurants can satisfy your hunger after a day of exploring. Grouper is the catch of the day here and shouldn't be missed.
Another entry located on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, Fort Myers Beach has comfortably warm waters and white sandy coastlines to spend all day at. Surrounded by over 100 coastal islands, the town combines beautiful nature with culture-packed neighbourhoods, all begging to be explored between beach days.
An absolute must-do of this region, the Great Calusa Blueway features 40 miles (65km) of canoe and kayak trails, allowing you to experience the beauty of Fort Myers from its cyan waters. Kids (of all ages) will love the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, reflecting the area's impressive shelling. As evening hits, indulge in the freshest seafood or a colourful cocktail while enjoying the panorama.
This rugged haven of red rocks sit between two national parks (Arches and Canyonlands), so it's no wonder many visitors flock here for the hiking trails. As well as vast otherworldly landscapes, you'll find rivers (yes, really) and forests, making Moab's small town hospitality the perfect base for exploring.
Hiking is a must here, but there's also rafting, climbing or even jeeping to be enjoyed around the area. In Arches National Park alone, there are more than 2,000 incredible natural stone arches – see how many you can spot.
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Encompassed by serene lakes and the iconic Ozark Mountains, Branson shows its visitors the very best the Midwest has to offer. The family destination boasts relaxing spas and resorts as well as top-rated golf ranges. Nicknamed the ‘Live Entertainment Capital of the World’ thanks to its huge music scene, Branson really is the place to be.
Branson is also home to one of the world’s top theme parks, Silver Dollar City. Opened in the 1880s, the park promises a fun day out for the whole family with rides such as wooden coaster Outlaw Run and Time Traveler, a spinning coaster that has three inversions. Titanic fans shouldn't miss the namesake museum, where you can see a half-scale recreation of the memorable ship and some of its authentic artefacts. Finish your day with a stroll through Branson’s centre and explore its many boutiques, galleries, bars and restaurants.
Travel back in time with a trip to historic Charleston, where Southern charm and incredible architecture meet plantation landscapes. Stroll along the Waterfront Park and soak up the views of the Battery, French Quarter and Middleton Place. Founded in 1670, you can spot pieces of Charleston's past all over the city, such as cobblestone streets and even horse-drawn carriages.
Charleston's scenic coast can be explored on a relaxing boat ride, while braver visitors can book a ghost tour to see the city’s spookier side. Next to the storied theatres and beautiful mansions you can find art galleries and (depending on the day) vibrant festivals. If that’s not enough, some unique historic sights in Charleston include a Second World War aircraft carrier and the location of the first shot of the Civil War.
Heaven on Earth according to some, Hawaii is America’s top destination of 2022 as voted by travellers. The island boasts stunning seasides, crystal clear waters, verdant mountains and active volcanoes. As the only state in the tropics, 2,000 miles (3200km) from the US mainland, Hawaii spoils its guests with plenty of sunshine and landscapes like nowhere else in the country.
Hike up the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea, and enjoy a view of the island at 4,100 feet (1250m). As Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, you can’t leave the island before catching some of those Pacific waves. Find out even more about the local culture by attending a hula dance show or indulging in some fresh seafood, like bigeye tuna or deep-sea bottomfish.