1Alabama
Unclaimed BaggageUnclaimed Baggage
The Unclaimed Baggage Center in Scottsboro, Alabama, is exactly how it sounds—a thrift shop filled with items from lost baggage after the waiting period expired to claim it. What started as a part time business in 1970 has grown to a store the size of a full city block with more than 7,000 new items added every day. There have been some unique items including: a full suit of armor, gemstones, and even a live rattlesnake. If you're not planning a trip to Alabama soon, good news! You can now shop online.
2Alaska
AGF//Getty ImagesSitka
Once entering Sitka, you won’t feel like you’re in America with the vibrant culture of Russia at the forefront. That’s because this small town was a part of Russia until 1867, but the roots of its origin have remained. Visitors can enjoy the mountain scenery, whale watch, go snowmobiling on a Polaris, hike, fish and kayak.
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3Arizona
HagePhoto//Getty ImagesDevil’s Bridge
Aside from local art shops and neutral architecture that blends in with the red rock landscape, Sedona is home to Devil’s Bridge. With a natural bridge formation on this trail, it’s no wonder why it’s on the top of most hikers’ lists. It does get crowded so be sure to get there early if you don’t want anyone in your photo.
4Arkansas
zrfphoto//Getty ImagesHot Springs National Park
In Hot Springs, Arkansas, this National Park with a rich cultural past stands as a pillar for healing and a tribute to the “American Spa” of the 20th century. With nine historic bathhouses, ancient thermal springs, mountain views and forested hikes, it’s a balance of adventure and history.
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5California
Alexander Spatari//Getty ImagesVenice Canals
Visiting the Venice Canals in Venice, California, makes you feel like you’re in Europe (except with palm trees). Made up of six waterways–Carroll, Linnie, Howland, Sherman, Eastern, and Grand and approximately one and a half miles in length–the canals are perfect for a self-guided bike or walk.
6Colorado
Ronda Kimbrow Photography//Getty ImagesGarden of the Gods
Explore what Colorado Springs has to offer in one magical place. Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark, with dramatic views, 300 foot sandstone rock formations along a backdrop of mountainous views and blue skies.
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7Connecticut
DenisTangneyJr//Getty ImagesMystic
This small town is unlike any other spot in Connecticut with a historical feel and grand personality. Mystic was historically a significant Connecticut seaport with more than 600 ships starting in 1784. Visitors can stay at the newly renovated Spicer Mansion, which was originally built in 1853.
8Delaware
Robert Kirk//Getty ImagesBethany Beach
A hot beach escape destination, Bethany Beach offers historical gems such as the Indian River Life Saving Station, built in 1877 and the Fenwick Island Lighthouse. The beach is clean and the water is just fine for catching some waves.
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9Florida
Sean Pavone//Getty ImagesBok Tower Gardens
Located in Polk County, Florida, Bok Tower Gardens has 250 acres of lush gardens and a 205 foot tall tower with carillon bells. It’s relaxing and beautiful, which was the intention of creator Edward W. Bok, former longtime editor who desired to create a bird sanctuary while spending the winter in Florida. From subtropical temperature and plant bushes, visitors can spot up to 126 species of birds.
10Georgia
joe daniel price//Getty ImagesRock City Gardens
Ancient rock formations are the focal point of this natural wonder, just a few miles from downtown Chattanooga in Georgia. Rock City Gardens feature over 400 native plant species, and panoramic views where you can actually see seven states!
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11Hawaii
M Swiet Productions//Getty ImagesHanauma Bay
We couldn’t leave Hawaii out because you could be taking a road trip in Hawaii! Hanauma Bay is a marine embayment formed within a tuff ring along the southeast coast of O’ahu. Explore the reefs, swim in the crystal blue waters and take in the greenery.
12Idaho
Wolfgang Kaehler//Getty ImagesCraters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve in Snake River Plain in central Idaho. It’s unlike any National Park encompassing three major lava fields. Get your moon shoes because you can see some of the best examples of rift cracks in the world—including the deepest known on earth at 800 feet.
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13Illinois
Todd Ryburn Photography//Getty ImagesStarved Rock State Park
Known for its sandstone canyons formed by glacial meltwater, Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby, Illinois, is a natural wonder. There’s 13 miles of trails to explore with waterfalls, fishing, and boating.
14Indiana
FacebookAntique Alley
What’s old is new in Antique Alley in Richmond County, Indiana. There’s a 60 mile stretch of the Historic National Road that connects Richmond to Knightstown with over 1,000 antique dealers. There’s even an antique mall in a 3 block radius in historic Cambridge City.
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15Iowa
Delaney LaGrangeSwinging Bridge
If you’re not afraid of heights, this Swinging Bridge in Columbus Junction is 262 feet long and was originally built in 1886 (rebuilt in 1922). It’s an ideal destination for a hike that won’t take all day.
16Kansas
Visit KansasKansas Avenue of Murals
For art lovers, Kansas Avenue of Murals displays the city’s best art. The eight murals cover four blocks in the historic downtown area tell stories of the culture and history of Kansas City.
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17Kentucky
Education Images//Getty ImagesRed River Gorge
Visitors can see more than 100 natural sandstone arches at the Red River Gorge! Spanning 29,000 acres and located in east-central Kentucky, this gorge lies within the Daniel Boone National Forest. This canyon features sandstone cliffs, rock shelters, waterfalls and natural bridges.
18Louisiana
Robson HatsukamiFrenchmen Street
Within walking distance to the French Quarter in New Orleans, Frenchmen Street has the most authentic and local live music. There’s something for everyone with a range of every genre, and it’s also home to the Frenchmen Art Market if you’re in search of excellent local art.
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19Maine
Enzo Figueres//Getty ImagesPortland Head Lighthouse
Enjoy a day along the water in Cape Elizabeth along the shores of Fort Williams Park. The Portland Head Lighthouse, now a landmark, dates back to 1776 when the Town of Cape Elizabeth posted eight soldiers at the lighthouse to warn citizens of incoming British attacks.
20Maryland
Image by Michael Rickard//Getty ImagesAssateague Island
While it’s a beautiful beach, Assateague Island is known for the wild horses that roam the beaches. Local folklore describes the horses as survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast. Make sure to keep your distance and respect the horses to feel at home on the island.

James is a journalist covering everything from travel, interviews, personal essays to lifestyle and entertainment. He's a Syracuse University alum and New Jersey native.
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