20 Travel Destinations to Check Off Your Bucketlist
This year has been the year of absolutely ZERO travel for most of us! While I did do a few local trips across my state, I can’t help but plan for what’s next for me in 2021! But before I do that, I want to cross off a few destinations that were on my Previous Travel Bucketlist to inspire that wanderlust back into you too!
Chichén Itzá in
Yucatan, Mexico
Known as one of the 7 Wonders of the world, Chichen Itza is the proof of the flourishing civilians of the ancient Mayans. Thriving in 600 A.D., this ancient city was a powerful trading center for slaves, honey, salt, clothing, and more.
While visiting, you’ll also spot Graphic stone carvings that survived on the structures. Plus the biggest ancient ball court in Mesoamerica that were used to determine the fates of transgressors.
Lake Powell, Arizona
Lake Powell is located in northern Arizona and stretches up into southern Utah. It’s part of the Colorado River in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
When I went to Lake Powell for the first time, I couldn’t believe how Blue the water was! We went around September, which may have been slow season because they were barely any people there. Being surrounded by the canyons was a beautiful experience. There are some spots where the canyons narrow in and you could almost touch the walls!
Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona
Address: Page, AZ 86040
Referred to as the “east rim of the Grand Canyon”, Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe-shaped incised meander of the Colorado River.
When starting my travel journey, Horseshoe Bend was absolutely Top 3 places on my bucket list! Being there was surreal and it’s crazy big it is in person. It’s a bit of a hike from the parking lot but since it’s become such a tourist destination, they’re a lot of signs to help get you the right spot!
Tulum, Mexico
Address: Carretera Federal, Cancun – Chetumal Km 230, 307, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The Tulum Ruins are a thousand percent worth seeing while visiting Tulum, Mexico. Known as the walled city, the ruins are one of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites that sit atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
Visiting for the first time, you really get to see all the details of the ruins on the castillos and templos from this once thriving settlement. The panoramic views of the beach are breathtaking! And if you’re lucky, you’ll spot iguanas sunbathing.
Nashville, Tennessee
This destination is celebrated for it’s street filled music plus their incredible food and nightlife. And don’t worry, you don’t have to be a country fan to appreciate the talent of the performers. If you’re ready to get rowdy and have the time of your life, Nashville is your best bet!
Walt Disney World, Florida
The “Happiest Place on Earth” is always going to be on my list of top destinations. You could really spend an entire week here and still not see everything! If you want to get the most out of Disney World, stay at an onsite resort and get a park hopper pass if possible! If you only have a weekend to spend, I love starting at Magic Kingdom in the morning, then making my way to Epcot for lunch, and then hitting Hollywood Studios during the evening. Animal Kingdom has a lot of fun rides and plenty to see, so I would plan that on its own separate day!
If you want the Disney experience without the entry fee, check out Disney Springs, formally known as Downtown Disney, for some of the best restaurants in the city.
Tip: The best time to go to Disney is during your birthday. Especially if you love dessert!
Utah, USA
If you’re ready to get back to nature and have a wild adventure, book your trip to Utah asap!
This destination is filled with canyons and one of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen. There’s so much to see and do while you’re there from ATV’ing, horseback ride or even driving endlessly with music blaring from the speakers.
There’s so much beauty and history to discover in Utah that makes me want to go back again!
St. Augustine, Florida
Claiming to be the Oldest City in America, St. Augustine is a quaint town right off the Florida coast. If you love museums and history tours, you’ll want to spend a weekend here!
Tips: Visit during the Holiday season for their annual Nights of Lights. During this time, the city is lit up with over 3 million christmas lights and it’s truly magical! Plus if you want the ultimate experience, stay at Casa Monica Resort and Spa. For an inside look at this historical hotel, click the link below!
The Don CeSar at St. Pete Beach, Florida
Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
If you’re looking for world-class beaches with powdery white sand, the Don CeSar at St. Pete Beach is your spot!
This Pink Palace opened in 1928 to resemble a Mediterranean-style castle. There are countless photo ops at this beautiful hotel so definitely take advantage while you’re there! St. Pete Beach also offers some of the most beautiful sunsets i’ve ever seen so make sure to reserve a beach bed for the ultimate relaxation experience.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah, Georgia has everything you need for a fun travel destination. From ghost tours, beautiful historic architecture, plus a bustling nightlife, this georgian city is where it’s at! Plus, they have an open container law so you can do more sightseeing and sipping and less sitting!
Tip: To get the most out of your first trip, stay at a hotel on River Street. Here you’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants and things to do while walking on cobblestone. Plus it’s not far from Broughton street, where you’ll find shopping and even more amazing restaurants.
For a guide to Savannah, check out my link below!
Atlantis, Bahamas
Atlantis Bahamas features everything you’ll ever need from a resort! Outstanding restaurants, casinos, an open-air aquarium, plus a 141 square ft. water park! It’s truly paradise!
Since I was a little girl, I’ve always wanted to see Atlantis. If you’re a Mary Kate and Ashley Fan, holla! lol
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is known for its pastel-colored antebellum houses, horse-drawn carriages, and southern hospitality. We spent 3 days walking the French Quarter plus touring some of Charleston’s Top Historical and Famous Landmarks and Sites.
Charleston also features some amazing rooftop bars and restaurants with 360 views of the city.
Las Vegas, Nevada
The Las Vegas strip will always have a special place in my heart. Not only because of the dazzling lights and glamour but because of all the fun memories from the world class clubs and restaurants Sin City has to offer. Whether you’re going to be a high roller or a quintessential tourist, you’re going to always find something to do in Las Vegas!
New Orleans, Louisiana
What is better than cajun food, jazz, and beignets?! New Orleans is loved for the culture and the locals know how to have a great time. Plus the French Quarter is one of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen. And of course, no trip to this Bayou is complete without going on a swamp tour!
Check out my YouTube video for a fun swamp tour adventure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGY3pFxgx9U
South Beach in Miami, Florida
If you’re ready to eat some of the most incredible food, take in amazing beach views and party like a rockstar, then book a trip to South Beach ASAP!
You could go to Miami for the beach alone but the nightlife and food scene is where it’s at. Make sure to check out my Miami restaurant and cocktail bucketlist!
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is where I call home, and it will always have my heart! Once you get pass the Coca Cola Factory, Varsity Burgers and the Georgia Aquarium, you’ll want to head north. Make sure to add Piedmont Park, the Beltline, Ponce City Market, Little Five Points, Buckethead and Avalon to your list of fun neighborhoods to check out! Atlanta is a big city so there is plenty to see and do while in the A!
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is more than just deep dish pizza! They have a fascinating history when it comes to city modernization and sky scrapers. The touristy parts of chicago is what makes the windy city so fun!
Make sure to check out the Willis Tower during 4th of July for panoramic view of all the cities fireworks going off at once! It’s truly magical!
Los Angeles, California
The city of angels was on my bucket list since I was a little girl! I’ve always dreamed of movie stars and celebrity life, so breathing in that california air gave me all the vibes! There’s so many fun neighborhoods and iconic spots to check out to really get the most out of LA. But the best way to get around is to mingle and meet people because someone who knows somebody knows the hottest new spots in the city!
San Francisco, California
The City by the Bay has a special place in my heart. I use to visit San Francisco a couple of times a year and each time I fall more and more in love with the city. There so many distinctive neighborhoods and landmarks to check out that a full weekend wouldn’t be long enough!
My favorite way to get the most out of San francisco is to stay in Fisherman’s wharf. On one side, you’re not far from Market street that runs into the financial district. And on the other side, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge!
For a list of my favorite places to eat and drink in San Francisco, stay tuned for my list coming soon!
Hearst Castle, San Simeon, California
If you love seeing beautiful historic homes, Hearst Castle is going to blow your mind. This Castle in the Sky is all thanks to the vision of one man, William Hearst. On the tour, you’ll see many guest homes that were visited by Hearst’s many Hollywood friends. It’s truly fascinating how much detail each area is. From the homes to the garden. There are also two famous pools that are featured in many music videos and movie scenes.
This is absolutely a must-stop on your adventure on the Pacific Coast Highway in California.
