In 2026, the United States turns 250 — and we saw the perfect opportunity to celebrate by exploring the coolest places to go in America. That milestone inspired the creation of USABucketList.com, a collaborative project designed to help travelers discover the very best of the USA through a curated, research-driven national bucket list.
We’ve spent years criss-crossing the country — individually, with families, and on our own quests — gathering stories, comparing notes, and sharing the places that moved us, surprised us, and kept us coming back for more. We’ve tackled ambitious road trips, from 7-week cross-country adventures, iconic drives like Route 66, an underrated drives like the I-94 corridor across South Dakota.
For destinations we haven’t personally reached (yet), we turned to fellow travelers, local experts, historians, park rangers, and U.S.-travel fanatics who eagerly shared their insights and favorite experiences. Their input helped shape this comprehensive USA travel bucket list into something both inspiring and practical.
What sets USABucketList.com apart is its simplicity. Every destination—whether it’s a national park, cultural landmark, small town, museum, or delightfully quirky roadside stop—includes a five-item must-do checklist. It’s an easy way to make sure you hit the highlights without missing the things you’ll be talking about long after you’re home.
This project goes far beyond the familiar “founding fathers circuit.” You’ll find places tied to major chapters of American history, from the Civil War to World War II, the civil rights movement to the space age. You’ll also discover natural wonders, state parks, offbeat attractions, beloved hometown icons, and whole towns with stories worth a detour.
Our hope is simple: to spark curiosity, inspire exploration, and help you experience the very best of America — one unforgettable stop at a time. Let’s go.
The USABucketList.com Team