50 Places to Visit in the USA - the Best Attractions in Every US State

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The Manhattan Skyline in New York, one of the 50 most essential sights in the USA

Discover our ultimate guide to the best things to see, do and eat in every state in the USA. Plus how to make the most of your time in the states with an eSIM

Planning a visit to the United States of America can be a daunting prospect – where do you start? A collection of 50 individual states, each with their own distinct history, culture, music and cuisine presents an abundance of choice. Whether you’re planning a Route 66 road trip, city break or beach holiday, there’s a state for you. Luckily, wherever you choose, it’s easier than ever to visit the country with a USA eSIM from BetterRoaming.

These prepaid travel SIMs can be downloaded before you go, and provide you with clear, fast mobile data in the USA, without paying international roaming fees. Convenient and great value, an eSIM lets you focus on what matters during your tour of the United States. 

In this list, we break down every single one of the USA’s 50 states (plus Washington DC), highlighting a must-see destination as well as some hidden gems, overlooked attractions and a local dish. The article is divided into 6 regions, to help with the planning of your trip. 

Best Places to Visit in the New England and the Northeastern USA

1. Connecticut
A leafy and sedate contrast to its famous neighbour New York, Connecticut epitomises New England’s laid-back charm. Its capital, Hartford, is home to just 120,000 people yet contains a wealth of Victorian and colonial-era architecture. One of these is a must-visit in Connecticut: the Mark Twain House and Museum. This period building has been painstakingly reconstructed to depict the writer’s life and surroundings when he lived in Hartford.

Insider tip: Connecticut is a powerhouse beer producer, with 59 independent breweries in the state alone. Many of these also contain visitor centres, bars and bottle shops on-site.
Connecticut Local Specialty:  Apizza (a New Haven pizza variation, with less cheese and more charring) 

2. Delaware
Delaware is a small East Coast state that played an essential role prominently in early US history. The wealth of the 19th-century USA is reflected in the grand mansions that populate the state, many of which are open to the public. Must-visit sights among these include the Winterthur Museum and Gardens, a Georgian mansion turned decorative arts museum; and the Nemours Estate, a sprawling neoclassical museum and gardens modeled on a French château.  

Insider tip: Delaware borders the city of Philadelphia, making it an ideal day-trip vacation destination for visitors to Philly. 
Delaware Local Specialty:  Scrapple (slabs of compressed meat and fat that tastes better than it looks) 

3. Maine
Visitors to Maine should take advantage of its status as one of the cheapest places to eat lobster in the world. Their abundance along the Maine shoreline means they can be sold for fast-food prices in and around the state. Make sure no one misses out on your food photos either, and enjoy high-speed, low-cost mobile data with a Maine eSIM from BetterRoaming. 

Insider tip: Maine can have severely cold winters – pack accordingly. 
Maine Local Specialty:  Lobster rolls

4. Maryland
Due to its strategically important location between the northern and Southern states, Maryland played a key role in the American Civil War. As a result, it is now one of the top destinations in the US for history buffs – some of the most visited destinations in Maryland include the Civil War era Fort McHenry and the Antietam battlefield.  

Insider tip: Maryland is also a celebrated destination for seafood lovers – Maryland crab is world-renowned. 
Maryland Local Specialty: Maryland crab cakes 

5. Massachusetts
Cape Cod, the curving peninsula that reaches into the Atlantic Ocean off the east point of Massachusetts, has been a popular East Coast holiday destination for centuries. Visit in spring or autumn to escape the bulk of the crowds while enjoying pleasant temperatures and world-class restaurants. Whenever you choose to go, a USA eSIM is your key to stress-free travel throughout Massachusetts and the rest of the country.  

Insider tip: Massachusetts is a haven for seafood lovers. 
Maryland Local Specialty: Massachusetts clam chowder 

6. New Hampshire 
New Hampshire is only a day trip away from East Coast metropolises like Boston and New York, yet feels part of an entirely separate world. Quiet, coastal and with no major cities, New Hampshire is a perfect destination for a US getaway or weekend trip. Much like Vermont, New Hampshire comes alive in autumn, when visitors from across the country visit the state’s abundant woodlands. Beat the holiday stress with an eSIM for Vermont, and enjoy fast mobile data at low costs during your holiday. 

Insider tip: New Hampshire is home to the highest mountain in New England, Mount Washington. 
New Hampshire Local Specialty: Boiled Potatoes 

7. New Jersey 
Often contrasted with its busy neighbour, New York, New Jersey is a rewarding holiday destination in its own right. Jersey City shares much of the vibrant energy of New York, minus the tourists. Our pick for the best sight in New Jersey, however, is the Delaware Gap. Reachable from Jersey City or NYC in just a couple of hours, this protected region encompasses forests, beaches and mountains. An ideal break from city life, the Delaware Gap is a must-visit region for nature fans in the Northeastern US. Visit with an eSIM to ensure you stay connected throughout your trip as well.  

Insider tip: Visiting the Jersey Shore in September allows you to enjoy the warm water and sunshine while the resorts and beaches are at their least busy time of the season.  
New Jersey Local Specialty: Saltwater Taffy 

8. New York
As the largest and most-visited city in the US, and the 11th largest in the world, New York City has been an iconic influence in global culture for centuries. Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway, the Empire State Building...with five boroughs and over 8 million residents, planning a visit can be overwhelming. With a BetterRoaming eSIM for the US, you can enjoy peace of mind and fast mobile data at local rates, with no hidden costs.  

Insider Tip: New York State has a wealth of historic old towns like Seneca Falls and Cooperstown, for travellers looking for a change of pace from NYC. The Maid of the Mist boat tour, which ferries tourists to Niagara Falls, is also based in New York State. 
New York Local Specialty: Pastrami on rye  

9. Pennsylvania 
Bordering six states and Canada, Pennsylvania is perfectly located as a base for exploring the wider US. With a USA eSIM, you’ll be able to enjoy uninterrupted mobile data wherever you roam within the country. Philadelphia, the fifth-largest city in the United States, features world-class museums, galleries and parks. It’s a great alternative US city break instead of NYC or LA. 

Insider Tip: The Poconos mountain range in Northeastern Pennsylvania rivals the Ozarks in beauty, but with a less-explored feeling. From skiing to swimming, hiking and more, they offer everything you could want from an outdoor holiday in the USA. 
Pennsylvania Local Specialty: Philly cheesesteak sandwiches 

10. Rhode Island 
'Little Rhody’ might be the smallest state in the US, but it still manages to pack a lot into a tiny area. Ideally sized for a day trip or a weekend away, Rhode Island offers plenty of New England staples: attractive seaside towns, great seafood and serene forests. The clifftop walk in the state capital of Newport offers panoramic ocean views and provides the perfect opportunity to walk into town for a lunch of Newport shellfish.  

Insider Tip: Rhode Island isn’t actually an island. However, it does incorporate some, such as Block Island, reachable by ferry.  
Rhode Island Local Specialty: Clams  

11. Vermont
Vermont is the archetypal New England state, with a relaxed pace of life, mild climate and sprawling forest. The town of Montpelier is one of the best travel destinations in Vermont – especially during the autumn peak season, when the leaves start to change colour. And if you visit, make sure you can share your photos easily, with a USA eSIM giving you fast mobile data in Vermont at local rates.  

Insider tip: In recent years, Vermont has become a focal point for the American craft beer scene and is now the US state with the highest number of breweries per person.
Vermont Local Specialty: Ben & Jerry’s ice cream  

12. Virginia 
A region of pivotal importance during the early days of British colonialism, The American War of Independence and the US Civil War, Virginia is now a must-visit US destination for history fans. Famous sights in Virginia include George Washington’s birthplace; the reconstructed historic village of Colonial Williamsburg; and Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s personal residence and plantation. Visit them all with a single USA eSIM, and enjoy stress-free mobile data usage during your trip.  

Insider tip: With an extensive Atlantic coastline, Virginia also features some of America’s best beaches.
Virginia Local Specialty: Virginia Ham Biscuits 

Bonus: Washington DC 
Washington DC is not technically a state, but it’s still one of the most visited places in the entire US and an essential stopping point on any journey to the Northeastern USA. For tourists, the National Mall is a must-see. This park, bookended by the US Capitol and the Washington Monument, is lined on both sides by historic buildings, sculptures and the Smithsonian Museum. 

Inside Tip: DC has had a deep impact on 20th-century music: the city is the birthplace of the Go-Go genre and was instrumental in the development of hardcore punk.
Washington DC Local Specialty: Mambo sauce

Best Places to Visit in the Southern USA

1. Alabama
Alabama is a fascinating state, featuring a wealth of historic, cultural and outdoor attractions within a relatively compact area. Perhaps the most essential is the city of Montgomery, now famous as the town where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. marched 25,000 protesters to in 1965. A symbol of the ongoing effort for civil rights, the State capitol and accompanying historic tour is one of the most worthwhile tourist sites in the entire country. The city is also home to several landmarks commemorating the civil rights movement, including the Rosa Parks Museum, the Civil Rights Memorial Center and the Montgomery March route. Discover these and more across the entire US with an eSIM for Alabama. 

Insider tip: Alabama has a stunning, but often overlooked coastline with some of the best beaches in the Southern United States. 
Alabama Local Specialty: Grits (a cornmeal porridge, served either sweet or savoury) 

2. Arkansas
Arkansas may not share the international renown of its neighbours Texas or Louisiana, but it’s an equally fascinating travel destination – maybe more so considering its relative lack of exposure. For nature lovers, the Ozarks are one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the country and a great option for a weekend trip within the USA. And with an eSIM for Arkansas, it’s never been easier to discover the state, with high-speed roaming data at low local rates.  

Inside tip: For a great holiday idea for kids, consider a trip to the Crater of Diamonds National Park. Visitors to this park can enjoy searching through an extinct volcanic crater for minerals and precious stones – anything they find is theirs to keep. It’s a real hidden gem.
Arkansas Local Specialty: Fried catfish  

3. Florida
A major tourist state, Florida is home to several major theme parks, including Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando. The state is also synonymous with the Everglades: an under-threat wetlands region of outstanding natural beauty. Across 12,000 square miles, the UNESCO Wetlands area of Global Importance houses alligators, crocodiles, panthers and more. The Everglades is easily reachable from Orlando, Miami and the Florida Keys, making it a popular destination in Florida for tourists and travellers. With an eSIM for Florida, you can travel throughout the state, the US and the Caribbean with a single mobile data plan.  

Insider tip: Visit the Florida Everglades at dawn or dusk to avoid the midday sun and witness the animals at their most active.
Florida Local Specialty: Key Lime Pie 

4. Georgia
It’s hard to overstate Georgia’s contribution to popular music. Since the early 20th century, generations of pioneers have made lasting contributions to rock, pop, country, hip-hop and more. The state is the birthplace of the rock and roll originator Little Richard and soul legend Otis Redding. Through alt-rap heroes OutKast, Georgia led the way in breaking the NYC/LA hip-hop hegemony in the 1990s before Gucci Mane and Zaytoven helped to create trap music in the 2000s - paving the way for a gallery of current-day Georgian superstars including Nicki Minaj, Future and 21 Savage. Absorb some of this deep-rooted musical culture in legendary venues Atlanta venues like Underground Atlanta, City Winery or the Variety Playhouse. Stream all you want with a BetterRoaming eSIM for Georgia, with prices starting at just $1.75 per GB. 

Georgia Local Specialty: Peach cobbler 

5. Kentucky
Kentucky lies at the border of the Southern and Midwestern states, with a rich culture that draws from both regions. One of the most-visited attractions in Kentucky is the Churchill Downs racecourse, site of the esteemed Kentucky Derby horse race. It doesn’t have to be race day to visit either – the racecourse also contains the Kentucky Derby Museum, making it an ideal holiday destination for families with children. Keep children and adults entertained on your journey with eSIM USA plans, ensuring high-speed, low-cost mobile data, wherever you are in the US. 

Insider tip: Kentucky is also world-famous as a producer of Bourbon Whisky – the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a curated route that takes in many of the state's oldest distilleries, bars and taprooms. 
Kentucky Local Specialty: Rolled oysters 

6. Louisiana
Louisiana has a distinct culture, with diverse French, Cajun, African-American and Caribbean influences. From music (Swamp Rock and Bounce Music are both Louisianan genres) to food (Gumbo, Étouffée and Jambalaya), Louisiana is celebrated for its independence. New Orleans, the capital and largest city, is the best place to see and experience all these and more.  

Insider tip: For a less touristy experience, visiting New Orleans during the off-season in winter is a great way to experience the food, architecture and music without the spring and summertime crowds.
Louisiana Local Specialty: Jambalaya 

7. Mississippi 
The vast Mississippi Delta provides the coastline of Mississippi with some of the country’s most pristine beaches, off the beaten track. Visit the coastal resort town of Biloxi to enjoy some of the best beaches in the south, without the crowds of Florida or South Carolina. And with a BetterRoaming eSIM for Mississippi, take the stress out of travel, safe in the knowledge you’re using US mobile data with no roaming fees and no hidden costs. 

Inside Tip: Mississippi has a storied musical history, being the birthplace of the delta blues. 
Mississippi Local Specialty: Alongside Kansas, Mississippi BBQ is considered some of the best in the USA. Don’t leave the state without grabbing a plate. 

8. North Carolina 
North Carolina is home to the Ozarks, one of the largest mountain regions in the country alongside the Appalachians and the Rockies. Tourism is on the rise in the region, and it is easily one of the best outdoor destinations in the USA. Alongside the natural beauty, the Ozarks retain a distinct culture, dialect and history. 

Inside tip: North Carolina is also home to one of the most popular tourist sights in the country: the Biltmore Estate. This vast palace and gardens in Asheville, North Carolina, is the largest privately-owned house in the USA.
North Carolina Local Specialty: Sweet Potato Pie 

9. Oklahoma
Oklahoma is another chiefly agricultural state, with acres of dramatically windswept open prairie. However, it’s not all wilderness - the city of Tulsa features two of the most-visited and prestigious museums in the USA: The Philbrook and the Gilcrease. Both art museums feature sprawling collections and expansive gardens, making them perfect options for day trips in Oklahoma. 

Insider tip: The legendary route 66 passes straight through Oklahoma – as a result, the state is home to cinematic highway attractions, motels and novelties that seem lifted from a 70s road movie. 
Oklahoma Local Specialty: Oklahoma Onion Burger 

10. South Carolina
South Carolina enjoys both beautiful natural landscapes and some of the USA’s most charming towns. One of the best destinations for travellers is Charleston, which is famous for well-preserved historical architecture and palm-lined avenues. The city’s relaxed pace and charming XX belies its chequered history of piracy and slavery. The Charleston Museum, the oldest museum in the country, is an essential stopping point for visitors to the area.  

Insider tip: Just north of Florida, South Carolina’s beaches are some of the best in the country.
South Carolina Local Specialty: Collard greens 

11. Tennessee
From Dolly Parton to the Three 6 Mafia, Tennessee is synonymous with American music. The state’s capital, Nashville, is where countless aspiring country singers move to. For the ultimate country music experience, visit the Grand Ole Opry – a country music showcase that has broadcast live bluegrass, gospel and Americana concerts since 1925. You can also stream country music to your heart's content with a BetterRoaming eSIM for the US, giving you unparalleled mobile data speeds at local prices in the USA. 

Insider Tip: Tennesee also offers a range of great outdoor holiday options, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, home to Clingmans Dome.
Tennessee Local Specialty: Dry-rub BBQ ribs 

12. Texas
Texas is vast – the second largest state in the country, after Alaska. The Lone Star State maintains a distinctly independent streak, perhaps nest encapsulated by it’s unorthodox capital, Austin. Austin is one of the most visited and moved-to US cities of the last decade, with a thriving contemporary art, music and theatre scene - the city's unofficial motto ‘Keep Austin Weird’ perfectly captures its unique atmosphere. 

Insider Tip: Texas also has some of the finest white sand beaches in the country, and scenic beachside towns like Galveston. With BetterRoaming, discover travel eSIMs for Texas, as well as maritime travel eSIMs for the Gulf of Mexico if you’re venturing further out.
Texas Local Specialty: Tex-Mex cuisine 

Best Places to Visit in the Midwest USA 

1. Idaho
One of the sunniest states in the country, Idaho is an underrated hiker’s paradise, and a great choice for a family holiday in the USA. The Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve offers alien landscapes and volcanic activity to rival Yellowstone. With fewer crowds, it’s a perfect destination for a van journey, road trip or family holiday. And with a USA eSIM, you can be sure to stay connected for the duration of your journey.  

Insider tip: The ‘Potato State’, Idaho hosts one of the country’s largest state fairs every year. 
Idaho Local Specialty: Deep-fried Idaho Finger Steaks are the state dish, and a calorific way to end a long day's hike. 

2. Illinois
For centuries, Chicago has been one of the most international and interesting cities in the US, its port providing it with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Home of the Blues, Chicago is still one of the best places in America to experience it live. Catch a show at a legendary local venue like the Kingston Mines, House of Blues or the Bassment. Visit in June to experience the Chicago Blues Festival, a free open-air concert and bucket list destination for rock, blues and jazz fans worldwide. With an eSIM, you can share and stream photos and videos of your trip to your heart’s content, with easy-to-manage prepaid data plans for the US. 

Insider tip: Chicago’s Chinatown is located just outside of the city centre, and is one of the oldest and most visited in the country. 
Illinois Local Specialty: Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza 

3. Indiana
Indiana is home to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the highest-capacity sporting venue in the world. Visit in May to witness the stadium at full capacity when it hosts the world-famous Indy 500. In this national institution, cars average around 170mph – almost as fast as the mobile data connection from a BetterRoaming Indiana eSIM. 

Insider tip: Indiana is the premier destination in the US for motor sports fans – aside form the Indy 500, it also hosts NASCAR races, drag racing championships and even Formula 1 races.
Indiana Local Specialty: Pork tenderloin sandwiches 

4. Iowa
Iowa is a farming state, and the Iowa State Fair is one of the oldest and largest agricultural shows in the world. Held every August, the fair attracts 1 million visitors per year (a third of Iowa’s total population). Expect country music, fried food, and livestock auctions at this massive celebration of American agricultural life.  

Insider tip: Iowa is also home to one of the most left-field entrants on the US National Register of Historic Places: The Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption. This vast man-made cave/temple was built over the course of 40 years by one man and consists of hundreds of thousands of precious stones. 
Iowa Local Specialty: Corn dogs 

5. Kansas
Kansas is situated at the geographic center of the United States of America. Much like its neighbour Nebraska, Kansas is a primarily agricultural state with wide open plains, rolling hills and great opportunities for wildlife and bird spotting. Due to its central location, Kansas is an ideal stop on any coast-to-coast American road trip. With an eSIM for Kansas, you can explore everything this state has to offer while paying local rates for mobile data.  

Insider tip: Kansas City is only partially located in Kansas – the other half lies in Missouri 
Kansas Local Specialty: Kansas BBQ is renowned throughout the country - especially the local invention, ‘burnt ends’ - don’t leave the state without trying some. 

6. Michigan
Michigan’s capital, Detroit is one of the most-visited cities in the US. The city retains a unique cultural heritage and legacy of influence in science, music and the arts. Detroit city boasts several 1950s architectural treasures and listed buildings, including the Chrysler House, the Fisher Building and One Detroit Center. This makes it a fascinating alternative travel destination to New York City or Chicago. No matter where you choose to visit, an eSIM for the US will ensure you can stay connected to mobile internet during your trip, without having to pay roaming fees.  

Insider tip: Michigan is also a great location to explore Canada from – Toronto is only a few hours from Detroit. Fortunately, we also offer Canadian eSIM plans.
Michigan Local Specialty: Detroit-style pizza is a lesser-known, but equally worthy US pizza variant. Deep-dish and loaded with cheese, eating one in a neighborhood pizzeria is an essential Michigan experience. 

7. Minnesota
Minnesota’s reputation as a cold northern state belies its wonderful summer weather, and nationally-renowned series of idyllic lakeside towns. Almost any journey along the Shores of Lake Superior is sure to guarantee gorgeous views, but our pick of the most scenic lake towns in Minnesota is either one of Grand Marais or Brainerd. Travelling there with a USA eSIM makes it even easier, as you can rely on constant mobile connectivity throughout Minnesota and the US while paying local prices.  

Insider tip: More than half of Minnesota lives in the Twin Cities (Minnesota and St Paul) metro area, so make sure to visit to get a full understanding of life in MN.
Minnesota Local Specialty: Hotdish (a comforting stew with beef, corn, peas and tater tots) 

8. Missouri
Football – American Football, that is - is close to a religion in Missouri. The state team, the Chiefs, are the current Superbowl champions. Visit during the NFL season (between September and February) for a chance to witness the Chiefs play at the iconic 1960s Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.  

Insider tip: Kansas City is divided almost equally between Kansas and Missouri. Fortunately, a BetterRoaming eSIM for the US provides seamless mobile data across both states, as well as the entire United States of America. 
Missouri Local Specialty: St. Louis Barbecue 

9. Nebraska
Nebraska is a sparsely populated state, offering instead an abundance of dramatic open prairies straight out of a western film. Nebraska rodeos are a fascinating way to experience an authentic cowboy experience in the modern age. Burwell, Nebraska is home to the largest rodeo in the state – an unforgettable experience for tourists to the US.  

Insider tip: With an eSIM for the US, you’ll be able to share our holiday photos faster than ever, with 4G/5G data speeds throughout the country.  
Nebraska Local Specialty: Runza sandwiches 

10. North Dakota
With under a million residents, North Dakota is one of the least populous states in the entire US. Despite this, it has a tumultuous history, with a plethora of natural and cultural sites to visit. Our pick, though, is the Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site. One of the most important historical sites in the entire US, Knife River preserves the buildings and way of life of a formerly bustling Native American community that was wiped out by European smallpox.  

Insider tip: North Dakota is one of the largest US states by area. Stay connected during your travels here with a USA eSIM, providing unmatched mobile coverage across 50 states.
North Dakota Local Specialty: Knoephla (a potato and dumpling soup) 

11. Ohio 
One of the less-visited states in the country, Ohio has carved out a niche for itself as an international destination for rollercoaster fans. Cedar Point theme park contains some of the largest and fastest roller coasters in the world. The most-visited tourist site in Ohio, Cedar Point opened in 1870 and is listed in the US Register of Historic Places. Capture every moment of your visit with a USA eSIM from BetterRoaming. 

Inside Tip: Alongside Wisconsin, Ohio is one of the disputed birthplaces of the hamburger. Wherever it was invented, this state is home to countless outstanding burger joints.
Ohio Local Specialty: Hamburgers  

12. South Dakota
Though one of the least-visited states in the USA, South Dakota features one of the nation's most iconic tourist sites: Mount Rushmore. This titanic wall of sculpted granite is synonymous with the USA, and well worth the journey. 

Insider tip: Perhaps more impressive and important than Rushmore is South Dakota’s Crazy Horse memorial. This under-construction mountainside portrait serves as a mirror to Mount Rushmore, and a permanent monument to the region’s oft-erased Native American history. 
South Dakota Local Specialty: Chislic (skewers of diced meat) 

13. West Virginia 
West Virginia is the least-visited state in the mainland USA – but that belies some of the most dramatic and characterful landscapes in the Eastern US. The Appalachian Mountain Trail runs through the state, while the New River Gorge National Park is a magnet for rafting enthusiasts and rock climbers from across the country. For outdoor enthusiasts, a BetterRoaming eSIM for the USA is essential – it lets you roam through the US, while enjoying the strongest signal possible, so you don’t lose connectivity when you’re exploring West Virginia. 

Insider Tip: West Virginia’s central location makes it a small but worthwhile detour during any East Coast road trip.
West Virginia Local Specialty: Slaw dogs (hot dogs with chilli and coleslaw) 

14. Wisconsin 
Wisconsin has a long and proud tradition of food and drink, making it one of the best, and most overlooked, destinations for foodies in the US. The city of Milwaukee is synonymous with beer – home to Miller, the Milwaukee baseball team is even called the Brewers. Today, tourists in Wisconsin can enjoy exploring countless major- and micro-breweries in the city. With an eSIM for Wisconsin, it’s never been easier to explore a new city, staying connected to mobile internet while avoiding roaming charges.  

Insider tip: The state is also the (disputed) birthplace of the hamburger – one of America’s finest and most successful cultural exports. Order one at one of Wisconsin's many historic burger joints.
Wisconsin Local Specialty: Deep-fried cheese curds 

15. Wyoming 

‘Big Sky Country’ is the local nickname – and once you visit, you immediately see why. The second most sparsely populated US state (after Alaska), Wyoming is covered in cinematic plains and wide-open meadows. Within this wilderness lies the majority of Yellowstone National Park, including the park's most famous feature, ‘Old Faithful’. This ancient geyser is a natural wonder a truly must-see tourist sight. The park also contains the Grand Prismatic Spring and can be explored by car, foot, bike, or even helicopter. Make sure you can share your photos during your visit with a BetterRoaming eSIM.
Wyoming Local Specialty: Game Chilli 

Best Places to Visit on the West Coast and Western USA 

1. Arizona 
Arizona is a massive state, with a climate that simultaneously encompasses ski resorts like Tucson and Flagstaff and arid deserts in the south. It’s also home to the Grand Canyon National Park - a world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the must-see sights in the USA. This vast gorge can be explored by land, river or sky. However you choose to visit, don’t lose signal with a BetterRoaming eSIM for Arizona and the USA. 

Insider Tip: The Montezuma castle is another wonder of the Arizona desert, and well worth the detour – a village carved directly into a rockface by the Sinagua people, 800 years ago.
Arizona Local Specialty: Tamales 

2. California
The largest state in the US by population, California is also the most visited. Since the beginning of the 20th century, countless films, musicians and artists have made Californian culture known across the world. Los Angeles alone contains The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios and the Griffith Observatory, while the original Disneyland is located nearby. A stay in the Bay Area allows travellers to experience many of the most popular tourist sites in California in one relatively compact area. The Golden Gate Bridge, the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, San Francisco, Oakland, Alcatraz Island and San Jose are all found in this region. And with a California eSIM from BetterRoaming, you can travel uninterrupted between them all without ever losing signal or mobile internet.  

Insider tip: America’s most esteemed wine-making region, Napa Valley, is also located within the San Francisco Bay Area.
California Local Specialty: California roll sushi 

3. Colorado
Colorado is one of the premier winter sports destinations in the world, with a wealth of both high-end and budget-friendly ski and snowboard resorts in and around the famed Rocky Mountains. The small town of Aspen is one of the most-visited destinations in the US for ski tourists from around the world. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or window-shopping in the town’s designer stores, an eSIM for Colorado lets you browse, surf, stream and share seamlessly throughout the state and the wider US.  

Insider Tip: For a hiking holiday quite literally off the beaten trail, Colorado’s San Juan mountains are a less-traversed alternative to the Rockies that still offer panoramic views of relatively unspoilt nature.
Colorado Local Specialty: Rocky Mountain oysters (be aware: these are not actually made from oysters) 

4. Montana
Montana is one of the least populated states in the entire country, yet contains a multitude of significant historical sights. The Lewis and Clark trail, mapping the route of the explorers, passes through the state. One of the most visited tourist sites in the Midwest can be found here: the site of the Battle of Little Bighorn. This sobering memorial is one of many Native American landmarks in Montana. 

Insider tip: While the majority of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming, much of it also lies in Montana. You can visit both states easily with a single prepaid eSIM data plan from BetterRoaming.
Montana Local Specialty: Huckleberries 

5. Nevada 
It’s no surprise that the most popular travel destination in Nevada is Las Vegas. It's one of the most-visited tourist spots in the world, let alone the US. A recent development, however, is the city's emergence as one of the top holiday destinations for families in 2024. With world-class all-ages resorts, shopping and dining options, Sin City has put its past behind it and evolved into a resort holiday destination to rival Florida. With a BetterRoaming eSIM for the USA, you can keep the whole family entertained during your trip, with reliable mobile data abroad at local US rates.  

Insider Tip: Of course, there’s more to Nevada than Las Vegas. The state incorporates over 20 different National Parks and wilderness refuges, making it an essential US destination for nature lovers.
Nevada Local Specialty: Las Vegas’s breakfast buffet culture is a uniquely American phenomenon 

6. New Mexico
Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, has carved out a reputation as one of the most forward-thinking and celebrated homes of contemporary art in the United States. Since the 1980s, the city has become a global destination for artists, dealers, fans and critics alike. An eSIM from BetterRoaming lets you explore everything the city has to offer and beyond, providing seamless mobile internet throughout your journey. Must-see sights for art fans in New Mexico include Canyon Road, the gallery-lined focal point of the scene, The Georgia O’Keefe museum, and Meow Wolf, an immersive contemporary art installation from the eponymous collective.  

Insider tip: The state has a hot desert climate, so the best time to visit New Mexico is during spring or autumn.
New Mexico Local Specialty: Green and Red Chile Sauces  

7. Oregon
Just north of California, Oregon is a heavily forested state with abundant natural beauty. The most notable example of this is the otherworldly Painted Hills, located within the John Day Fossil Beds National Park. Seeing the sun set on these sandstone stunners is a transcendent experience and an essential reason to visit Oregon. Capture the moment and easily share your holiday photos with a reliable mobile data plan for the USA. 

Insider Tip: Portland, Oregon’s largest city, is known throughout the country for its alternative culture, tolerant lifestyle and active music and arts scene.
Oregon Local Specialty: Smoked Salmon

8. Utah  
Zion National Park and Monument Valley in Utah are two of the most iconic and most-visited sites in the entire United States. Filled with otherworldly rock features, hiking trails, extreme sports centres and campsites, these national parks have provided the backdrops to countless Western movies and artworks for decades. Take a BetterRoaming eSIM with you and enjoy exploring the wilderness of the parks with a reliable mobile internet connection. 

Insider Tip: The Sundance Film Festival takes place in cities across Utah every January. The largest independent film festival in the country, Sundance is an essential travel destination for movie fans.
Utah Local Specialty: Utah scones 

9. Washington 
Over half of Washington’s population lives in and around the city of Seattle. Consistently ranked as one of the most liveable spots in the world, Seattle’s thriving art scene, iconic musical legacy and mild climate make it an attractive destination for tourists and travellers all year round. Visit Seattle with an eSIM and enjoy everything the city has to offer without paying for data roaming charges.  

Insider tip: After California, Washington is the second-largest producer of wine in the United States. Avoid the Napa Valley crowds and head north to discover some of the country's finest vineyards.
Washington Local Specialty: Dungeness Crab

Best Places to Visit Outside the Mainland USA 

1. Alaska
Alaska is unlike any other US state. It’s the largest by far (nearly 3 times the size of the next biggest, Texas) yet one of the least populated, with a smaller population than the diminutive Rhode Island. It’s known for its natural beauty – in fact, 60% of the state is owned by the National Park service. This includes one of the most exciting tourist attractions in the USA: the Kenai Fjords National Park. This glacier-covered region is just a few hours from the city of Anchorage, from where you can charter a boat cruise through the fjords and see the Arctic landscape and wildlife up close. However remote your destination, and whether you’re travelling through Alaska or the rest of the USA, a BetterRoaming eSIM for Alaska offers unmatched mobile signal strength. 

Insider tip: The coastal area of Kenai Fjords is closed to the public between autumn and spring, so plan your trip accordingly.  
Alaskan Local Specialty: Alaskan ice cream, including Autaq (made from whipped animal fats) 

2. Hawaii 
Despite its absorption into the US in 1959, Hawaiian can trace its human history back over 800 years. One of the most diverse states in the country, the indigenous Hawaiian language and culture is still upheld. Learn more about this at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum in Honolulu, which holds one of the largest collections of Hawaiian and Polynesian cultural items in the world. 

Insider tip: Over two-thirds of the population of Hawaii is concentrated in the island of Oahu. Lanai Island offers a quieter, more relaxed alternative.
Hawaiian Local Specialty: Ahi Poke (Diced raw tuna, tossed in a variety of spices and sauces)

 

Author
Content Writer
Roland Volker is a writer covering tech, travel, and environmental issues for BetterRoaming. Since completing a BSc in Environmental Conservation, he has worked in the arts, science, and NGO sectors. He lives and works in Berlin.
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