Exploring North America is perhaps one of the biggest bucket list goals for travelers the world over. Whether they’ve lived on the continent or elsewhere, there are a lot of destinations to check off the list. Whether it’s the sun-soaked coastlines of California, the majestic Rockies stretching from the US into Canada, or a place like New York City or Miami, there’s bound to be a place that you can check out and enjoy the best experience possible. While we talk about the best destinations, it may be a good idea to know what they are and when the best times to go to them.
1. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver may be one of the best year-round destinations for travelers. Once you’ve locked in one of the best PrivateUpgrades luxury hotels North America, you may be in the mood for some outdoor fun, no matter what time of year it may be. If it’s during the winter months, you can ski or snowboard at the slopes of world-famous Whistler or Grouse Mountain. The summer months can also be a good time to bike along the Seawall or even go to Stanley Park, where you can hike the numerous trails that can really elevate the outdoor experience.
Vancouver has a mild climate, making it an excellent year-round travel destination. If you’re looking for a place that isn’t too hot or cold, odds are this is one place to add to your multi-city itinerary (or if you’re just looking for one place in particular that fits your vibe).
2. Santa Fe, New Mexico
A lot of travelers may write off New Mexico as a possible destination because there may be “nothing going on” or the scenery is “boring” and “nothing but desert”. The thing is: they truly don’t know what they’re missing. If you are someone who loves the scenery with a mix of art and culture, you will know exactly why they call this place “The Land of Enchantment”. Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico ,is perhaps one of the most underrated and underappreciated travel destinations in North America.
During the winter, you’ll see the adobe buildings dusted in snow, making it look like something you’d see in holiday cards or Instagram photos. The summer months are when Santa Fe can really come alive with colorful art displays and music festivals where the sounds fill the air, and it seems like it never ends. If that’s your kind of thing, Santa Fe is definitely worth a visit. Since it also features over 250 art galleries, it can be a paradise for the art lover.
3. Charleston, South Carolina
Located in the southeastern United States, Charleston’s old school charm of colorful architecture, cobblestone streets, and that legendary Southern charm all come together to create what may be one of the best travel destinations in North America. You’ll be within close reach to some of South Carolina’s excellent beaches while also steps away from some of the best culinary scenes in the region.
If you’re looking for some real Southern-style cuisine, you need to try out some of the Lowcountry classics like shrimp and grits. During the spring months, azaleas bloom, and the sea breezes are prevalent in the summer. Come fall time, you may be enjoying a nice oyster roast during the local harvest festival.
4. Banff, Alberta
Banff might be the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies, if not, the entire mountain range that covers Canada and the United States. Nevertheless, Banff is perhaps one of the best winter destinations for travelers that offers world-class skiing and snowboarding that just might rival Whistler. This place also gets its share of summer time travelers, as there are numerous turquoise lakes and picturesque mountain views that are unmatched.
If you love to canoe, take pictures, or simply want a little peace and quiet with a side of luxurious flair, Banff may be one of those destinations where you must go. Imagine enjoying fine dining with a mountain view after a day of hiking, relaxing at the hot springs of a mountain resort, and whatever else you might be in the mood for.
Final Thoughts
Throughout the year, there’s always a place in North America where it makes sense to travel to and for good reasons. You may be looking to hike somewhere in the summer and then come back in the winter for skiing or snowboarding. Or maybe you’re looking to hit up the beaches in the summer and come back next spring to watch plenty of colorful flowers come to life to welcome back the warm weather. Whatever of these four destinations that you choose, make sure you make the most out of your experience in the best way possible.
Take pictures, enjoy local cuisines, and choose your own adventures while you’re in one destination or several. You’ll never know what kind of stories you can tell to your family and friends when you return home.
