Map Of West United States Travel Guide
Top Attractions
When visiting the West United States, there are plenty of must-see attractions. The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and Las Vegas are just a few of the top destinations. Other popular attractions include the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, the Space Needle in Seattle, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are definitely worth visiting, don’t forget to explore some of the hidden gems in the West. The Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona, the Palouse Falls in Washington, and the Crystal Mill in Colorado are just a few of the stunning and lesser-known destinations.
Food Scene
The West is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. From fresh seafood in Seattle to authentic Mexican cuisine in Southern California, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the famous In-N-Out Burger in California or the unique food trucks in Portland, Oregon.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem! There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all that the West has to offer. Consider camping instead of staying in hotels, eating at local food trucks instead of expensive restaurants, and taking advantage of free attractions like national parks.
Outdoor Adventures
The West is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking in the Rocky Mountains to surfing in Southern California, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had. Some other popular outdoor activities include skiing in Lake Tahoe, kayaking in the San Juan Islands, and hiking in Zion National Park.
Historical Landmarks
The West is rich in history, and there are plenty of landmarks that showcase it. The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, the Hoover Dam in Nevada, and the Golden Spike National Historic Site in Utah are just a few of the historical landmarks worth visiting.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities in the West. Disneyland in California, the Oregon Zoo in Portland, and the San Diego Zoo in California are just a few of the popular destinations. You can also take your family on a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway or explore the beaches in Southern California.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, consider some off-the-beaten-path experiences. Visit the ghost town of Bodie, California, hike to the Wave in Arizona, or explore the abandoned mining town of Animas Forks in Colorado.
Natural Wonders
The West is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. The Grand Canyon, Yosemite National Park, and Yellowstone National Park are just a few of the breathtaking destinations. Other natural wonders include the Arches National Park in Utah, the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, and the Redwood National and State Parks in California.
Vibrant Nightlife
The West is also known for its vibrant nightlife. From the clubs in Las Vegas to the bars in San Francisco, there’s always something going on. Other popular destinations for nightlife include Portland, Seattle, and Los Angeles.
Local Markets
If you want to get a taste of local culture, visit a local market. The Pike Place Market in Seattle, the Ferry Building Marketplace in San Francisco, and the Santa Fe Farmers Market in New Mexico are just a few of the popular markets in the West.
Beaches and Mountains
The West is unique in that it has both beaches and mountains. The beaches in Southern California, the Oregon Coast, and the Washington Coast are all worth visiting. The Rocky Mountains, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and the Cascade Range are just a few of the breathtaking mountain ranges in the West.
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, there are plenty of opportunities in the West. Visit the Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, the Native American reservations in Arizona, or the Chinatown neighborhoods in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Art and Music Scene
The West is also known for its thriving art and music scene. Visit the galleries in Santa Fe, attend a concert at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado, or explore the murals in Portland.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore a city on foot, consider taking a walking tour. The Freedom Trail in Boston, the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, and the Underground Tour in Seattle are just a few of the popular walking tours in the West.
Architectural Marvels
The West is home to some impressive architectural marvels. The Space Needle in Seattle, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and the Hoover Dam in Nevada are just a few of the iconic structures worth visiting.
Historical Sites
The West has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Visit the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, the Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, or the Golden Spike National Historic Site in Utah.
Biking Routes
If you want to explore the West on two wheels, there are plenty of biking routes to choose from. The Pacific Coast Highway, the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes in Idaho, and the Colorado Trail are just a few of the popular biking routes in the West.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, consider a wellness retreat. The Esalen Institute in California, the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa in New Mexico, and the Red Mountain Resort in Utah are just a few of the popular wellness retreats in the West.
Adventure Sports
Finally, if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of adventure sports to try in the West. Go white-water rafting in Colorado, bungee jumping in Las Vegas, or rock climbing in Yosemite National Park.