USA Destinations: Road Trips, Hidden Gems & Must-See Spots
Some many places to explore
Welcome to my USA Destinations Page
Your one-stop guide to exploring the best this amazing country has to offer! From stunning waterfalls and scenic drives to quirky roadside attractions, small towns, and national parks, I’m on a mission to share my favorite places across all 50 states. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a bucket-list road trip, or just looking for travel inspiration, you’ll find plenty of ideas and tips right here. Let’s hit the road and discover the hidden gems that make traveling the USA so unforgettable!
Discovering The Beauty of Pennsylvania State Parks
Pennsylvania is home to one of the largest state park systems in the country, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking rugged trails, or simply soaking in the beauty of quiet forests, the state parks of Pennsylvania are a treasure waiting to be explored.
The Top 15 Lake Superior Lighthouses in Michigan
.Michigan’s Lake Superior shoreline is rugged, wild, and full of stories—and its lighthouses are some of the most fascinating in the country. In this guide, I’m sharing the top 15 Lake Superior lighthouses in Michigan that are worth visiting, from remote, wave-pounded towers to beautifully restored beacons rich with history.
The Magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been lighting up the holidays since 1924, and next year marks a once-in-a-lifetime celebration—the 100th official parade. From the early floats and zoo animals to the giant character balloons we know today, this beloved event has become a true American holiday tradition
The Best Christmas Market to Visit in the USA in 2025
If you love twinkle lights, mulled cider, handcrafted ornaments, and that cozy old-world Christmas charm, you’re going to love this list. I’m taking you on a festive road trip across the United States to visit 10 of the very best Christmas markets — from big-city sparkle in New York and Chicago to small-town magic in Bethlehem and Elkhart Lake, and yes, even my hometown holiday market right here in Pittsburgh. Grab a mug of cocoa and let’s go explore!
The 10 Best Christmas Towns in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is home to some of the most enchanting Christmas towns, each offering its own unique holiday magic. From the charming streets of Bethlehem, known as “Christmas City, USA,” to the festive lights of Hershey’s Candyland, these towns are filled with twinkling lights, cozy markets, and joyful celebrations. Discover the best places to experience the holiday spirit in the Keystone State.
20 Haunted Places in Pennsylvania You Must Visit
Pennsylvania is a state where history and hauntings walk hand in hand. From Gettysburg’s battlefields to Eastern State Penitentiary’s crumbling cells, spirits linger in inns, churches, caves, and asylums. Here are 20 haunted places in Pennsylvania that will give you chills.
The Haunted Covered Bridges of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s covered bridges aren’t just relics of the past—they’re also gateways to ghost stories and lingering legends. From the cries of an infant at Van Sant Bridge to the battlefield echoes at Sachs Bridge, these historic crossings hold more than just history in their timbers. Step inside, and you may hear whispers, footsteps, or even see shadows that refuse to fade with time.
Top Places in Pennsylvania to See The Fall Foliage
Fall in Pennsylvania is magical. From late September through October, the mountains, valleys, and small towns across the Keystone State burst into color. Whether you love hiking, scenic overlooks, or just a peaceful drive, here are my favorite places to experience the beauty of autumn.
Big Tex: The Giant Cowboy of the Texas State Fair
Every October, millions of people flock to Dallas for the Texas State Fair — and towering over it all is Big Tex, the 55-foot cowboy with a booming voice and a welcoming wave. Since 1952, Big Tex has been more than just a mascot; he’s a Texas icon, a symbol of hospitality, and the first “Howdy, folks!” that kicks off the fair each fall. His story is full of transformations, surprises, and resilience — just like Texas itself.
Arthurdale, WV Eleanor Roosevelt’s New Deal Dream
On a recent trip through West Virginia, I stumbled upon Arthurdale, a small town on Route 92 with a remarkable past. Created in 1933 as the first—and only—New Deal homestead community, it was Eleanor Roosevelt’s passion project during the Great Depression. Families here experienced indoor plumbing for the first time, danced with the First Lady, and even sent a Thanksgiving turkey to the White House. Though plans for nearly a hundred similar towns never came to life, Arthurdale remains a powerful reminder of hope and resilience.
A Texas-Sized Fairytale: The Falkenstein Castle
Perched high above the Texas Hill Country, Falkenstein Castle is a real-life fairytale brought to life. Inspired by King Ludwig II’s unbuilt Bavarian design, this 14,000-square-foot castle in Burnet, Texas, blends European charm with Lone Star spirit—complete with turrets, sweeping views, and a story as magical as its architecture.
Exploring PA Covered Bridges Starting in Washington County
Washington County is home to 23 historic covered bridges, making it one of the best places in Pennsylvania to experience these charming wooden structures up close. From quiet backroads to scenic parks, each bridge has its own story and architectural style. Join me as I begin my journey to visit every covered bridge in the state—starting right here in the heart of southwestern Pennsylvania.