After Visiting All 50 States, These 4 Were The Most Stunning Stops + 4 Overrated Ones I Would Skip Next Time

Road-tripping across the U.S. taught me something no guidebook could: not all “must-see” places are worth the hype, and some of the most unforgettable stops aren’t even on most people’s radar. After covering all fifty states, I’ve seen the truly stunning—and the surprisingly underwhelming.

Some destinations took my breath away; others left me checking my watch. Here’s what stood out for all the right reasons—and what I wouldn’t go out of my way for again.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

Rugged wilderness stretches as far as the eye can see, offering a glimpse into untouched America. Glacier National Park showcases over 700 miles of hiking trails winding past emerald lakes and snow-capped peaks.

The Going-to-the-Sun Road provides jaw-dropping views even for those who prefer driving to hiking. Visit in July when wildflowers paint the meadows and most trails are snow-free.

2. Kauai, Hawaii

Emerald cliffs plunge into azure waters while waterfalls cascade through valleys untouched by development. Kauai offers the raw, natural beauty that’s increasingly rare even in Hawaii’s island chain.

Helicopter tours reveal the inaccessible Na Pali Coast in all its glory. For adventurous souls, the challenging Kalalau Trail delivers views that reward every drop of sweat expended on its muddy, narrow paths.

3. Sedona, Arizona

Fiery sandstone formations glow at sunset against cobalt skies, creating a landscape that feels otherworldly. Sedona’s red rock country provides perfect hiking conditions nearly year-round, with Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock standing as natural monuments.

Stargazing here is phenomenal thanks to dark sky protections. Morning is ideal for photography when crowds are thin and the light bathes everything in golden hues.

4. Acadia National Park, Maine

Granite peaks rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, creating a unique marriage of mountain and maritime landscapes. Acadia National Park showcases the first sunrise viewable in the continental United States from atop Cadillac Mountain.

Carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller provide car-free exploration opportunities. Fall visitors are rewarded with a spectacular color show as maples and birches transform the forest into a painter’s palette.

5. Hollywood, California

Faded glamour and tourist traps define this legendary neighborhood that rarely lives up to its silver screen image. Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame amounts to dirty stars embedded in grimy sidewalks surrounded by costumed characters hustling for tips.

The famous sign is smaller than expected and difficult to access up-close. Skip this disappointment and head to Griffith Observatory for genuine Los Angeles charm and better city views.

6. Times Square, New York City

Sensory overload awaits in this neon-saturated intersection that feels more like walking through commercials than experiencing authentic New York. Times Square’s massive crowds and aggressive costumed characters create an atmosphere that’s more stressful than exciting.

Overpriced chain restaurants fill the area. Experience real NYC energy in neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or Brooklyn’s DUMBO, where locals actually spend their time.

7. South Beach, Miami, Florida

Sand-covered tourists pay premium prices for basic amenities while competing for personal space on this famously crowded shoreline. Instagram-worthy art deco buildings at the South Beach can’t compensate for the mediocre beach experience and aggressive hospitality tactics.

$30 cocktails and $50 beach chairs are standard. Head north to Hollywood Beach or south to Key Biscayne for cleaner shores, reasonable prices, and room to actually enjoy the Atlantic.

8. Nashville, Tennessee (Broadway Strip)

Bachelorette parties and overserved tourists dominate this cacophonous stretch where authentic country music has largely been replaced by cover bands. Nashville’s Broadway has become a caricature of itself, with identical-sounding music blasting from every doorway.

$15 beers accompany mediocre performances in most venues. Experience genuine Nashville music heritage at the Bluebird Cafe or Station Inn, where songwriting craftsmanship still matters more than volume.