Are you ready to explore the great outdoors? Today’s TRAVEL TUESDAY focus is exploring some of the most beautiful locations in America. The U.S. is home to some of the most breathtaking National Parks in the world, each offering unique experiences, from awe-inspiring landscapes to diverse wildlife. Here’s our expertly curated list of the top 10 U.S. National Parks you absolutely must add to your bucket list. Pack your bags, and let’s embark on a journey of a lifetime!
1. Yellowstone National Park Witness the grandeur of Old Faithful, the beauty of the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the wilderness of Lamar Valley. Stay at the iconic Old Faithful Inn and savor rustic dining at the Roosevelt Lodge. Don’t miss the chance to spot bison, elk, and maybe even a grizzly!
Best Time to Visit: Late April to May and September to early November.
Where to Stay: Old Faithful Inn for a historic experience.
Food Recommendation: Wild game dishes at Roosevelt Lodge.
Must-See Sights: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake.
Interesting Fact: Yellowstone is the first National Park in the world.
More Info: Official Site
2. Yosemite National Park Famed for its giant sequoias, breathtaking waterfalls, and the formidable El Capitan, Yosemite is a must-visit. The Ahwahnee Hotel offers luxurious lodging with a view. Enjoy a meal at the Mountain Room Restaurant for some local flavors.
Best Time to Visit: May and September, when the park is less crowded.
Where to Stay: The Ahwahnee for luxury amidst wilderness.
Food Recommendation: Savory meals at the Mountain Room Restaurant.
Must-See Sights: Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Mariposa Grove.
Interesting Fact: Yosemite Valley was carved by glaciers during the last ice age.
More Info: Official Site
3. Grand Canyon National Park A marvel of nature, the Grand Canyon’s vast expanse is a sight to behold. For a unique stay, check out the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. Dine at El Tovar Dining Room for a meal with a view. Don’t forget to catch a sunrise or sunset over the canyon!
Best Time to Visit: April to June and late September to October.
Where to Stay: Grand Canyon Railway Hotel for unique accommodation.
Food Recommendation: Southwestern cuisine at El Tovar Dining Room.
Must-See Sights: South Rim, North Rim, and Havasu Falls.
Interesting Fact: The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long.
More Info: Offical Site
4. Zion National Park Zion’s majestic canyons and serene rivers are perfect for nature lovers. Stay at the Zion Lodge right in the heart of the park. Enjoy a casual meal at the Red Rock Grill with a side of spectacular views.
Best Time to Visit: April to early June and September to October.
Where to Stay: Zion Lodge for a stay inside the park.
Food Recommendation: American fare at Red Rock Grill.
Must-See Sights: The Narrows, Angel’s Landing, and Zion Canyon.
Interesting Fact: Zion National Park is home to the largest arch in the world, Kolob Arch.
More Info: Official Site
5. Glacier National Park Known for its stunning glaciers, clear lakes, and hiking trails, Glacier National Park is a paradise for adventurers. Many Glacier Hotel offers rustic charm. Refuel at the Ptarmigan Dining Room after a day of exploring.
Best Time to Visit: July to August for full access to trails and roads.
Where to Stay: Many Glacier Hotel for a classic experience.
Food Recommendation: Local cuisine at Ptarmigan Dining Room.
Must-See Sights: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Grinnell Glacier, and Lake McDonald.
Interesting Fact: Glacier National Park has over 700 lakes.
More Info: Official Site
6. Rocky Mountain National Park Experience the high life at Rocky Mountain with its stunning mountain vistas. The Stanley Hotel offers a luxurious stay nearby. Enjoy local cuisine at the Trailhead Restaurant.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for the best weather.
Where to Stay: The Stanley Hotel for a luxurious stay.
Food Recommendation: Traditional dishes at the Trailhead Restaurant.
Must-See Sights: Trail Ridge Road, Bear Lake, and Emerald Lake.
Interesting Fact: Rocky Mountain National Park has 60 mountain peaks over 12,000 feet.
More Info: Official Site
7. Acadia National Park Explore the rugged coast of Maine at Acadia. Stay at the Bar Harbor Inn for coastal elegance. Enjoy fresh seafood at Jordan Pond House.
Best Time to Visit: Late spring, summer, or early fall.
Where to Stay: Bar Harbor Inn for coastal charm.
Food Recommendation: Seafood delights at Jordan Pond House.
Must-See Sights: Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and Thunder Hole.
Interesting Fact: Acadia is the first National Park east of the Mississippi.
More Info: Official Site
8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park A blend of Southern charm and natural beauty, this park is a wonder. Stay at the DreamMore Resort for a comfortable retreat. Local dining options abound with Southern specialties.
Best Time to Visit: Fall for the foliage, summer for wildflowers.
Where to Stay: DreamMore Resort for a comfortable retreat.
Food Recommendation: Southern specialties in local diners.
Must-See Sights: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove, and Roaring Fork.
Interesting Fact: It’s the most visited National Park in the U.S.
More Info: Official Site
9. Joshua Tree National Park Experience the stark beauty of the desert with Joshua Tree’s unique landscape. Opt for quirky lodging at the Joshua Tree Inn. Dining options in the nearby towns offer a range of eclectic choices.
Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler weather.
Where to Stay: Joshua Tree Inn for a unique desert experience.
Food Recommendation: Eclectic dining in nearby towns.
Must-See Sights: Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, and the Cholla Cactus Garden.
Interesting Fact: The park is named after the Joshua Trees, which are actually a type of yucca.
More Info: Official Site
10. Olympic National Park With its diverse ecosystems, Olympic is a nature enthusiast’s dream. Stay at the Lake Crescent Lodge for rustic lakeside charm. The lodge’s dining room offers a range of Pacific Northwest specialties.
Best Time to Visit: July to September for the best weather.
Where to Stay: Lake Crescent Lodge for rustic lakeside charm.
Food Recommendation: Pacific Northwest specialties at the lodge’s dining room.
Must-See Sights: Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, and Rialto Beach.
Interesting Fact: The park encompasses three major ecosystems.
More Info: Official Site
These ten National Parks offer something for everyone, from serene landscapes to adventurous trails. We’d love to hear about your experiences! Share your stories and tips with our community, and don’t forget to subscribe to our email list for more travel and wellness content. Happy National Park exploring!
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Bill
