The top points and miles bucket list adventures in the US

After more than a year stuck at home, Americans are traveling again in unprecedented numbers, even creating a new phrase for wanderlust: "Revenge travel."

While many countries are starting to reopen to travelers from the U.S., a significant part of the world remains inaccessible for now due to COVID-19. Instead of searching beyond borders, why not opt for an extravagant domestic getaway?

The U.S. is home to some breathtaking destinations, many eager to welcome back visitors. Since you likely haven't used up many of your airline miles or hotel points in the past year, now is the perfect time to redeem them for truly unforgettable trips right here at home.

You can choose from culinary delights or beach escapes, an adventure filled with adrenaline, or simply relax at a lovely all-inclusive resort. Regardless of your interests, there are bucket-list experiences waiting for you nearby (or at least within a reasonable drive or flight).

Here are eight must-visit destinations in the United States that will make your points and miles truly valuable.

New York City

The Big Apple offers something for everyone: incredible museums, thrilling Broadway performances (hopefully returning soon!), and iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.

With countless activities to enjoy in New York City, make sure to use a credit card that maximizes your points for transit, dining, attractions, and entertainment. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve provides 3x points per dollar on travel expenses, including flights, hotels, and public transit options like rideshares and the Subway. The Citi Prestige® Card offers 5x points per dollar on dining, allowing you to earn big at some of New York's top restaurants. Additionally, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card gives 4% back on entertainment spending, which encompasses live theater, sporting events, and tourist attractions, among other options.

The details regarding the Citi Prestige and Capital One Savor Cash Rewards cards have been independently sourced by Dinogo. The information on this page has not been verified or endorsed by the card issuer.

Getting there

If you’re traveling from another East Coast hub such as Boston (BOS), Philadelphia (PHL), or Washington, DC (DCA/IAD), your best option is likely to be rail, including Amtrak. You can purchase your ticket using a card like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, which earns 2x miles per dollar on every purchase. These miles can then be redeemed for travel expenses, including train fares, at a value of one cent each.

For those coming from farther away, New York's three main airports are JFK (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR) in New Jersey, giving you plenty of options. Regarding miles, Delta has been running flash award sales with tickets available for as low as 2,500 miles each way within the U.S., while United has reduced award prices to as low as 3,000 miles each way. Hopefully, there will be more offers like this in the future.

Where to Stay

While it’s estimated that around 200 hotels in New York City shut down in the past year, there are still over 500 options available – and they are eager for your patronage!

All the major hotel chains are well represented, so your choice will depend on your budget for cash or points and your preferred location in the city.

Some of TPG's top hotel recommendations in New York City include The Times Square EDITION, which costs approximately $700 or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night this summer, and the St. Regis New York for around $900 or 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

The Conrad New York Downtown offers rates ranging from $400 to $600 or 95,000 Hilton Honors points this summer, while the Park Hyatt New York is available for roughly $795 or 30,000 points. Naturally, there are also more wallet-friendly choices available.

Hawaii

Navigating the travel regulations for Hawaii during COVID-19 has been complicated, but it seems the state will soon reopen to fully vaccinated travelers with minimal restrictions.

Hawaii offers countless adventures, from surfing lessons in Waikiki and scuba diving at airplane wrecks to visiting historic sites like the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Iolani Palace, and the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art Culture and Design. Spend your days kayaking with whales off Maui, diving with manta rays in Hawaii, or hiking through Waimea Canyon on Kauai. The only question left is: How quickly can you get there?

Getting there

Airlines such as Delta, United, and Southwest are preparing for a surge in bookings by adding more flights to the islands and utilizing their larger jets to transport even more eager vacationers to this tropical paradise. While airfares are increasing, there are still award seats available for booking.

One of the many strategies for booking affordable awards to Hawaii is to redeem British Airways Avios, which can be transferred from Amex, Chase, and Marriott, on either Alaska Airlines or American Airlines. It only requires 13,000 Avios each way from the West Coast of the U.S., a significant savings compared to the usual flight awards costing between 15,000 and 22,500 each way.

Travelers from the East Coast have several nonstop options, including Hawaiian Airlines' Boston (BOS) to Honolulu (HNL) route, the longest domestic flight in the U.S., and its New York (JFK) to Honolulu service.

United operates flights from Newark (EWR) to Honolulu. United MileagePlus is a transfer partner for Chase Ultimate Rewards if you hold a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Additionally, the United Quest Card is currently offering a bonus of Earn 70,000 bonus miles + 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening, which should provide enough points for a round-trip economy flight between the Mainland and Hawaii.

Where to stay

Ultimately, your choices will depend on which island(s) you plan to visit. However, we have compiled a list of some TPG favorite hotels in Hawaii.

Options include the Andaz Maui at Wailea, priced between $600 and $1,100 or 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night for the coming months, and The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, also on Maui, with room rates starting at $800-$1,000 or 85,000-100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night this summer.

At Koloa Landing at Poipu, Autograph Collection on Kauai, nightly rates are approximately $600-$900 or 60,000-70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the Island of Hawaii charges around $700-$900, or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, while the historic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection nearby is listing rates of $850-$950 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night for the next few months.

Washington, DC

Regardless of whether you visit during the cherry blossom season, the capital city offers a remarkable selection of museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, and luxurious hotels.

While taxis and rideshares are convenient for getting around, you can also utilize the extensive Metro system for affordable travel. Just remember to buy your tickets with a card that provides bonuses on public transit purchases, such as the World of Hyatt Credit Card or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

You could spend your time shopping in Georgetown or exploring national monuments, but for true #avgeeks, two specific stops are a must. The first is the National Air & Space Museum, home to historic items like Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis and the world's first airplane, the Wright Flyer. Just five miles from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), the museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center showcases other legendary aircraft, including the space shuttle Discovery, the Enola Gay, and a Concorde jet.

Getting there

Similar to New York City, you may reach DC by train if traveling from the East Coast.

The city is accessible via three major airports: Reagan National (DCA), Dulles (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington (BWI). DCA is the nearest and can be reached quickly by Metro or taxi from most attractions. Dulles is a bit further away but serves as a hub for United, so Star Alliance flyers should watch for United award sales as low as 3,000 miles one way.

Baltimore/Washington serves as a hub for Southwest, which is advantageous since the airline imposes no change fees for rescheduling flights. Additionally, you can check in two bags for free per passenger. All three personal Southwest credit cards—the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card, and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card—currently offer new applicants 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening.

Where to stay

Travelers adept at using points have a broad selection of hotels in DC. If you hold the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, consider redeeming your annual reward night or earning bonus points at any of the five Kimpton hotels in the area.

The elegant Park Hyatt Washington DC is a sophisticated option in Georgetown, priced at approximately $300-$350 or 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night. Marriott Bonvoy enthusiasts can choose from several options, including the centrally located W Washington DC, which runs about $250-$410 or 50,000 points per night this summer.

Grand Canyon

Located in the northwest corner of Arizona, one of the world’s seven natural wonders is just a three-hour drive from Phoenix or four hours from Las Vegas.

The Grand Canyon is among the deepest gorges on the planet, with an average depth of one mile and a width of 10 miles. Stretching 277 miles, it was formed by the Colorado River over millions of years. As one of the oldest national parks in the U.S., having been established over 100 years ago, visitors can enjoy multi-day mule treks, ride on a historic scenic railway, or experience a thrilling 2,100-foot zip line soaring 1,000 feet above the canyon floor.

Getting there

The nearest major airports to the Grand Canyon are Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Las Vegas McCarran International (LAS). There are numerous airfare deals available to Las Vegas, and if you hold The Platinum Card® from American Express, you can access the newly expanded Centurion Lounge there.

Where to stay

While options for points hotels near the Grand Canyon are limited, the Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire is a nearby choice, costing about $250 or 36,000 Best Western points per night.

Another nearby option is the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Canyon, priced at approximately $285 or 30,000 IHG Rewards Club points per night, allowing you to use the annual reward night from the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card.

Alternatively, you might think about camping at one of the many recommended campgrounds and RV parks. These sites fall under the travel-merchant category for cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, allowing you to earn bonus points on your rental fees. You could also redeem miles from a card such as the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card to cover your camping expenses and save some money.

New Orleans

The Crescent City has a rich history of over 300 years, yet its joie de vivre remains vibrant. So, laissez les bons temps rouler as you explore this Southern gem.

Climb aboard the iconic St. Charles Streetcar, take a leisurely walk through Jackson Square, and admire St. Louis Cathedral before enjoying beignets at Café du Monde. You can jog or cycle along the 2.6-mile Lafitte Greenway that links Mid-City to the French Quarter. Instead of the bustling crowds of the French Quarter, opt for a tour of the elegant mansions in the Garden District. Pack a picnic for Audubon Park, and then dress up for a night of live music on Frenchmen Street or a bar-hopping adventure in the quirky Bywater neighborhood.

Getting there

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) unveiled a brand new terminal in 2019, featuring a beautiful Delta Sky Club.

According to the latest statistics from the airport, travelers can reach New Orleans with nonstop flights from 65 locations serviced by 19 airlines, including Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, United, and starting July 8, the newly launched Breeze Airways.

Your choice of flights to New Orleans will depend on the miles you wish to earn or redeem. For transportation around the city, you can earn bonus points on the streetcar with a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, or take advantage of the World of Hyatt Credit Card's 2x points on local transit and commuting. Taxis and Uber are also readily available.

Where to stay

New Orleans boasts numerous points-eligible hotels, including the iconic Roosevelt New Orleans, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, where rates range from $173 to $307, or 42,000 to 70,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

The city will also mark the opening of the Four Seasons New Orleans in July, perfect for those seeking a touch of luxury. While Four Seasons lacks a loyalty program, many of its locations are part of American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts, which is available to American Express cardholders with a Platinum or Centurion-branded card, including The Platinum Card® and The Business Platinum Card®. Booking through this avenue grants you additional perks like room upgrades based on availability, complimentary breakfast for two, and on-property credits, among other benefits.

Aspen

This Colorado mountain town is often linked to luxurious ski vacations (or even audacious jewelry thefts). However, beyond its winter appeal, Aspen is a stunning destination throughout the year, offering summer and fall activities like hiking and mountain biking, alongside a vibrant lineup of film, art, and food festivals. Despite its image as a costly retreat, there are numerous ways to cut costs on a trip to Aspen.

Getting there

Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is located just three miles northwest of the town. While flights can be pricey during peak ski season and summer months, your best bet is to fly into Denver (DEN) and then drive for about four hours. Be sure to secure a good deal on a rental car by using a platform like AutoSlash, especially this year when car rental costs are on the rise.

You may have a card that provides elite rental status with faster service and upgrade options, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required) or the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Also, be on the lookout for coupon codes or discounts that could save you money and earn you thousands of bonus airline miles.

Where to stay

Despite having a population of only around 7,400, Aspen boasts an impressive array of points hotels.

If you've accumulated Marriott Bonvoy points from a recent welcome offer with cards like the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, the St. Regis Aspen Resort offers rates starting at approximately $590 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night, while the nearby W Aspen lists rates between 85,000 and 100,000 points, or $440 and above per night this summer.

At the Hyatt Residence Club Grand Aspen, standard rates begin at $500 per night, while award nights are available for just 25,000 points each night.

If you possess The Platinum Card® from American Express, you can reserve luxurious accommodations like The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, an Auberge Resort through the Fine Hotels & Resorts program. This offers you perks such as food and beverage credits, room upgrades, late check-out, and complimentary daily breakfast.

Orlando

Boasting one of the highest concentrations of world-class theme parks globally, Orlando is a must-visit destination for every family.

Explore our Ultimate Guide to Walt Disney World Resort for insights on how to optimize your time, finances, and rewards while navigating this vast entertainment haven. We also provide tips on how to maximize a day at Universal Orlando, including strategies to use points for savings at the park and highlighting which rides are essential experiences.

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando boasts one of the nation's top cultural hubs, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as kayaking on Shingle Creek, hot-air ballooning with Orlando Balloon Rides, or speeding through the Wild Florida Airboats & Gator Park in Kenansville. Alternatively, you can dedicate a day to exploring the U.S. space program at the Kennedy Space Center located in Cape Canaveral.

Getting there

Orlando International Airport (MCO) ranks among the busiest airports in the nation, accommodating over 50 million travelers in an average year and offering nonstop flights to more than 90 U.S. cities across all major airlines.

While you might think about using award miles for your journey, recent fares have dropped to as low as $59 each way on airlines like American and United from cities such as Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), and Washington, DC (DCA). Therefore, it might be more economical to pay cash or utilize fixed-value points such as Capital One Venture miles instead.

Where to stay

If your primary focus is Disney World, check out our top-rated hotels near the park. There are several excellent points options available, such as the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista-Disney Springs Area, with rates ranging from 44,000 to 50,000 points per night or approximately $133 to $201.

Alternatively, consider the upscale Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, which is priced between $491 and $450 or 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points over the next few months.

For those seeking value, the Hyatt House across from Universal Orlando Resort offers roomy suite-style accommodations starting at $180 or just 12,000 World of Hyatt points this summer. This makes it a fantastic option for the World of Hyatt Credit Card's annual reward night redemption as well.

If you're looking for a unique experience, the Staybridge Suites Orlando at SeaWorld is a family-friendly all-suites hotel conveniently located near both Universal Studios and Disney. As an "Official SeaWorld Hotel," guests can enjoy perks like FastPasses and discounts. Award nights this summer are available for 37,000 IHG Rewards Club points, with paid rates starting at $179. If you hold the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, you can utilize your annual reward night here or earn the fourth night reward on award stays.

Alaskan Cruise

An Alaskan cruise offers the perfect blend of an adventure trip, wildlife exploration, and a family getaway – and these may be among the few cruises available this year as the industry navigates back to normal.

These cruises take you to remote areas of the vast state, showcasing breathtaking views, from glacier-laden fjords to orca pods hunting and bald eagles soaring over coastal woodlands. Itineraries frequently feature a mix of water and land tours, including activities like whale watching, ziplining, scenic train excursions, visits to Native American communities, and stunning helicopter rides.

In regular operations, the leading cruise lines provide similar itineraries, so your choice will hinge on your preferred cruise line, budget, and whether you favor a spacious family-oriented vessel, a luxurious experience like those offered by Cunard, or an expedition-style cruise like those from National Geographic Expeditions. For a comprehensive guide on the best options for the 2021-2022 cruising season, check out Cruise Critic's excellent post.

Getting there

Before setting sail, you'll need to reach the departure port. Cruises typically embark from Anchorage (ANC), Juneau (JNU), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Sitka (SIT), or Vancouver (YVR). Keep in mind that Canadian departures may be affected by changing COVID regulations.

If you're flying from the Pacific Northwest or Alaska, consider Alaska Airlines. Flight awards start at just 5,000 miles one way. Holding the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card might allow you to utilize its annual companion ticket benefit for nearly half-off fares.

Otherwise, there have been some fantastic airfare and award options recently with both Alaska and Delta to various destinations in Alaska. Prices remain quite competitive, offering opportunities to snag great deals.

Maximizing your points

While using a co-branded cruise credit card may not yield exceptional rewards for your spending, there are still numerous effective ways to maximize the value of your points when planning a cruise.

Start by using a credit card that offers multiple points per dollar on travel expenses, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Citi Prestige. Additionally, you can double your rewards by booking through platforms like bookaacruises.com or cruises.mileageplus.com. These websites provide multiple American or United miles per dollar spent on eligible cruises, along with onboard credits. Furthermore, CruisesOnly gives discounts and points bonuses with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.

Notably, World of Hyatt collaborates with Lindblad Expeditions, which offers numerous premium Alaskan adventure cruises. Members of World of Hyatt can enjoy the following benefits when booking via the Hyatt-Lindblad page:

• Earn 5x base points per dollar along with standard elite bonuses
• Qualifying nights contribute to World of Hyatt elite status
• Receive a $250 onboard credit
• Purchase specially curated experiences from Lindblad Expeditions through FIND

You can also use World of Hyatt points for cruises, providing a solid value of 1.6 cents per point. However, this means that redemptions may be quite high due to the overall cost of Lindblad's cruises. Nonetheless, it remains a viable option.

You can opt to finance your cruise using the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, which offers 2 miles for every dollar spent. These miles can be redeemed at a value of one cent each for travel expenses, including cruises, helping to reduce your overall fare.

Alternatively, you might want to use points through Citi ThankYou Travel or Chase Ultimate Rewards if you have those currencies. Amex Travel also allows you to redeem Membership Rewards points for cruises, but the value is only 0.7 cents per point, making it less appealing as an option.

Lastly, it's important to consider that due to the cost and duration of a cruise, investing in travel insurance or using a premium rewards credit card with extensive travel protections is often a wise choice in case your ideal vacation doesn't go as planned.

Last updated on 1/18/23