From coast to coast: 11 incredible destinations to explore in the U.S.

What’s the Fourth of July without spectacular fireworks, lively parades, a Capitol Fourth concert, crowded beaches, bustling pools, and backyard barbecues? Well, we’re about to find out.

This year, we’re not providing a list of the best spots to celebrate the Fourth of July. Instead, we want to share some of our favorite destinations across the U.S. -- even if it’s not the perfect time to pack the car or fly out due to the ongoing health crisis and travel restrictions.

As we reflect on 244 years of the United States, here are 11 favorite places across the country you can look forward to visiting when the moment is right for you.

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Antelope Canyon, located in Arizona, is a breathtaking natural wonder.

For those who love stunning landscapes that capture the essence of nature, Antelope Canyon is a must-see destination. This pair of slot canyons, the Upper and Lower, are situated near Page, Arizona, and soar 75 feet high, enveloping visitors in a vibrant display of light, color, and texture.

Among the two, the Upper Canyon offers a more accessible experience with a straightforward walk in and out. It's renowned for its iconic "light beams," which contribute to its popularity. Conversely, the Lower Canyon lies underground, requiring a descent to navigate its winding paths, making it more challenging yet highly rewarding for adventurous visitors.

Advance tour reservations are required to explore either canyon, and currently, Antelope Canyon is closed, so it should be added to your future itinerary. However, once it reopens, you can expect a drive of about five hours east from Las Vegas to reach it.

It's also conveniently located within driving distance of notable attractions like the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park, Bryce National Park, and Horseshoe Bend, each being remarkable destinations in their own right.

The Black Hills and Badlands region in South Dakota

When considering tourism in South Dakota, Mount Rushmore likely comes to mind first. While that's a highlight, don’t overlook Badlands National Park, which spans 244,000 acres and features a stunning blend of landscapes reminiscent of Death Valley, the Grand Canyon, Red Rock Canyon, and Valley of Fire State Park, all adorned with beautiful native grasses that soften the rugged terrain.

You can also experience the region's scenery aboard a vintage steam train that operates seasonally between Hill City and Keystone.

No matter what activities you choose, the entire region encompassing the Black Hills, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park offers a remarkable sense of freedom and vastness, alongside a rich narrative of the land, stretching from prehistory to Standing Rock.

Northern California

There are countless reasons that make Northern California truly unique.

Among the highlights are the majestic redwoods that soar over 370 feet into the sky, along with Yosemite National Park, Muir Woods, Lake Tahoe, the historic ghost town of Bodie, and so much more.

If that seems like a lot to take in, it truly is. You could spend weeks exploring this region and still not cover everything. This is why Northern California invites repeated visits; you can enjoy a taste of it now and return for a completely new adventure later.

Cape May, New Jersey

For those residing in the New York City or Philadelphia areas looking for a quick getaway, Cape May, New Jersey is an excellent choice.

In Cape May, you’ll discover serene beaches, delicious dining options, charming Victorian architecture, fantastic bike paths, and beautiful properties like Beach Plum Farm. This farm, which TPG editor-at-large, Zach Honig, visited last month, supplies fresh produce to local restaurants, residents, and visitors, making it a must-see destination.

Hanalei Bay in Hawaii

Nestled in the Pacific, the enchanting island of Kauai in Hawaii boasts stunning mountains. While the island features a sunnier, drier side, the northern region is home to the tranquil shores of Hanalei Bay.

Hawaii isn’t quite ready to welcome tourists yet, but when you finally make the journey to Hawaii, be sure to set aside at least one full day on Kauai’s North Shore. It’s essential to enjoy some of the best shave ice, fresh ahi, and to spend hours unwinding on the beach while watching the sunset over the golden sands of Hanalei Bay.

Rosemary Beach in Florida

If you appreciate sugar-white sands and a vibrant atmosphere, Rosemary Beach in Florida's panhandle might just deserve a top spot on your future travel list.

Rosemary is the kind of delightful town that attracts visitors year after year. It’s more tranquil than nearby Destin or Seaside, yet offers similar pristine beaches, a well-regarded local candy shop, and excellent dining options just a short stroll from the town center.

Shelter Island in New York

Situated between the North Fork and South Fork of Long Island — resembling a crocodile's jaws on the map — Shelter Island offers a version of the nearby Hamptons without the glamour and, honestly, the hustle of New York's beach resorts.

To reach the island, you’ll need to take a ferry; there are routes from both the north and south, each taking just a few minutes. However, it feels much more remote than that. With only a handful of hotels and Airbnbs, Shelter Island doesn’t aim to be a major tourist destination; its allure lies in its isolation.

At the Nature Conservancy's Mashomack reserve, a sanctuary for migrating ospreys, the only reminder of the modern world is the occasional jet overhead, arriving from Europe and heading towards New York's JFK airport. In winter, the island becomes half-deserted, embodying a sense of magic. For savvy New Yorkers, this truly is a place of refuge.

Great Smoky Mountains, spanning Tennessee and North Carolina.

It’s easy to see why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. There’s an abundance of sights and activities, all within a reasonable drive for countless Americans.

Many visitors come here just to drive through and take in the breathtaking views. Cades Cove Loop Road, for instance, is a scenic and highly favored 11-mile loop that offers a fantastic introduction to the wonders of the Smokies.

However, you don’t have to remain in your vehicle the entire time. Here, you can enjoy tubing, hiking, and exploring to your heart's content. The Great Smoky Mountains are a blast in the summer, but they also provide stunning fall foliage views. Plus, when you’re ready for some theme park excitement, Dollywood is conveniently located in Pigeon Forge. If you visit Dollywood, make sure to bring your appetite and sample the famous pull-apart cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill.

Wolfeboro in New Hampshire

This charming city proudly boasts the title of the "oldest summer resort city in America" — Wolfeboro's history stretches back to the 1700s and it's celebrated not only for its shopping and dining but also for the beautiful Lake Winnepesaukee.

Alongside relaxing days by the lake, visitors must indulge in Maine lobster, savor clams with butter and crumbs, and enjoy delicious lobster rolls. TPG credit cards editor Benet Wilson notes that Wi-Fi in the area can be quite unreliable, which actually enhances the visit.

Saratoga Springs and the Adirondacks in New York

Upstate New York offers a wealth of charm — from its quaint towns and majestic mountains to the refreshing distance from the bustle of New York City. Saratoga Springs and the Adirondack region are beloved spots, including by TPG global news editor Emily McNutt, who hails from the area and feels nostalgic while working abroad with TPG UK.

Located about a three-hour drive north of Manhattan, Saratoga Springs is also accessible via Amtrak on the Adirondack or Ethan Allen Express lines. You could also take a train to Albany or fly into Albany International Airport (ALB), followed by a short 40-minute drive to Saratoga. Once you arrive, the city is renowned for its mineral springs — it's literally in the name — as well as its horse racing, with the season kicking off in mid-July, though live spectators are currently not allowed.

Saratoga's culinary scene is another standout feature. Be sure to visit 15 Church Restaurant for upscale dining, Max London's for brunch, Druthers for craft beer and tasty bites, or The Local for some of the best fish and chips you'll find outside the U.K.

Don't overlook the 21 public mineral springs around town, reputed for their healing properties. When you're ready to venture into nature, drive 30 minutes north to the Adirondack region. Lake George serves as an excellent launch point for your Adirondack adventures, boasting a lively village atmosphere complete with arcades, live music, lakeside bars and eateries, and a chance to explore historical sites.

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado

Last but certainly not least, who can say no to the refreshing, crisp air of Colorado? Rocky Mountain National Park is located approximately 90 minutes northwest of Denver and boasts 147 lakes, a variety of wildlife including bears, moose, and bighorn sheep, along with 355 miles of hiking trails and the iconic Continental Divide.

Whether you're up for a moderate hike around Bear Lake or Emerald Lake, or you prefer to enjoy a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park promises to be a crowd favorite for any domestic getaway.

Any time of year is great for a visit, but while summer draws many, fall is truly breathtaking. In mid to late September, you can expect to see abundant elk, aspen trees glowing in brilliant yellow and gold, and perhaps even some early snow at the park's higher elevations.

Bottom line

There are countless incredible destinations across the nation. This list is just a glimpse but highlights 11 beloved spots among TPG staff. As we eagerly await the day when international travel becomes feasible again, discovering our country's national parks, charming towns, stunning beaches, and deep blue lakes could keep us happily occupied for years to come.