United States - Explore

view of Yosemite Valley trees and cliffs from overlook

Yosemite Rangers Wish Tourists Would Treat These Critters Like The Dangerous Animals They Are

By Christine Dulion

Learn why Yosemite's most adorable resident is also its most dangerous and why the National Parks Service wishes visitors would take more caution.

Cajun Vs. Creole: Why You Need To Know The Difference Before Dining Out In Louisiana

By Laura Jones

Here are the key differences between Cajun and Creole food so you can learn about the flavors and cultural influences of everything you eat in Louisiana.

Unspoken Etiquette Rules You Should Never Break When Seeing A Broadway Show

By Amanda Morgan

Keep these essential theater etiquette tips in mind when going to a Broadway show in NYC so you and those around you can enjoy the performance.

One Of The Oldest Airports In The US Is Also One Of The Busiest In The Country

By Lisa Curran Matte

The United States plays host to many of the world's busiest airports, including one which also happens to be one of its oldest in operation.

This Pennsylvania Theme Park Was The First In The World To Become A Certified Autism Center

By Camila Pérez B

This amazing theme park is not only fun and family-friendly, but it's also the first amusement park to create a certified safe space for kids with autism.

Blooming bougainvillea at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Ft. Myers

A Local Shares Florida's Most Magnificent And Highly-Rated Botanical Gardens

By Hannah Rice

Florida has more to offer travelers than beaches alone. Immerse yourself in the state's vibrant plant life at one of its best-reviewed botanical gardens.

The Different Types Of Rangers You'll Find Working In National And State Parks

By Camila Pérez B

If you've toured through any of the national park sites in the United States, you've probably encountered one of the many different types of park rangers.

Two cyclists idle in front of mountains on a sunny day

The First Leg Of A New 'Pacific Crest Trail For Bikes' Has Opened In Washington

By Robert Isenberg

This trail that runs from Mexico to Canada will mimic the Pacific Crest Trail, except it will be specifically for cyclists and bikepackers. Here's what we know.

sandy path leading to the ocean flanked by tall grass

New York's Beloved National Seashore Offers Peaceful Island Camping To Escape City Crowds

By Anna Robinson

This charming coastal camping getaway is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life where you can unplug and relax by the sea.

Vast shortgrass land with animals grazing

This Liberating 'Land Snorkeling' Trend Encourages Hikers To Truly Experience The Outdoors

By Mike Kaplan

What is land snorkeling? As if you were floating in the ocean, land snorkeling is hiking without a goal. And the best place for this is the American Prairie.

A view of Lake Mead with desert mountains in the background

The Iconic Arizona Lake Recreation Area That Becomes Very Dangerous To Hikers Seasonally

By Chris Tharp

This iconic lake in Arizona is the first national recreation area in the U.S., but it is also considered one of the country's deadliest. Here's why.

Sign for the Pacific Crest Trail and a snowcapped mountain

Hiking The Pacific Crest Or Appalachian Trail Has A Dangerous Thing In Common With Space Flight

By Shelby Wilkerson

Long-distance hiking (or thru-hiking) may seem like an activity with a ton of health benefits, but it also results in this condition common among astronauts.

Wooden platform over lake in morning mist

This Tennessee State Park Has Unique Camping Platforms Right Over A Dazzling Lake

By Laura Jones

Looking for beautiful natural scenery, including the ability to camp right over a gorgeous lake? You should head to this state park in Tennessee.

Unspoken Etiquette Rules You Need To Know Before Traveling Around The American South

By Daniel Feininger

Southern etiquette expert Nikesha Tannehill Tyson explains proper manners and what locals expect from visitors in an exclusive interview with Explore.

What The Proposed Federal Budget Freeze Could Mean For California Camping In The Summer Of 2025

By Amanda Morgan

With sweeping budget cuts coming for national and state park employees across the U.S., here's how your summer 2025 camping trip might be impacted.

Trail winding through Jedediah State Park

Camp In The Midst Of Northern California's Towering Redwoods In A State Park Near Oregon

By Madison Scrivano

Visit this underrated state park along California's northwestern coast to sleep among redwood trees at this gorgeous campsite fit for every type of traveler.

Two men standing among orange rock formations

This Dangerous Tourist Activity Is All Too Common, According To Park Rangers

By Anna Robinson

Most travelers enjoy spending time taking in natural beauty, but while doing so in state or national parks, it's best not to do this dangerous thing.

The Family-Friendly Water Park With California's Only Hydromagnetic Water Coaster

By Camila Pérez B

This water park in the United States is perfect for both families looking for some fun, quality time and adrenaline junkies looking for a thrilling ride.

A view of Oregon's Salt Creek Falls from the observation deck

Oregon's Second Highest Single Drop Waterfall Is An Enchanting Site With Scenic Hiking Trails

By Chris Tharp

This breathtaking single-drop waterfall in Oregon is part of a scenic outdoor recreation area sure to delight those looking for a great time in nature.

Californians Can't Stand It When Visitors Break This Unspoken Rule In San Francisco

By Laura Jones

Want to fit in with the locals when you're visiting San Francisco? Make sure you don't let any Californians hear you break this unspoken rule.

distant shot of buildings along Lake Junaluska with morning fog and mountain backdrop

A Picturesque Lake At The Foot Of The Great Smoky Mountains Is A Serene Outdoor Retreat

By Christine Dulion

Book an outdoorsy getaway at this stunning lake near Asheville for tranquility, a great view of the Smokies, and a refreshing paddle out on the water.

A section of the Blue Ridge Parkway twists through mountain forest

RV Camping Can Be Cumbersome Along The Blue Ridge Parkway If You Have This Kind Of Rig

By Robert Isenberg

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most stunning road trips in America. But if you're planning to drive an RV, there is one important thing to consider.

Gulf Vs. Atlantic: How To Decide Which Florida Coast Is Best For Your Style Of Beach Vacation

By Madison Scrivano

Heading to Florida? Here's how to decide whether the state's beautiful Atlantic Coast or Gulf Coast is the right vacation destination for you.

pink and blue sunset scene of Fort Cobb Lake

This Overlooked Lake State Park Is A Prime Destination For Water Recreation In Oklahoma

By Christine Dulion

Head to the Sooner State's most underrated state park surrounding a lake for endless watersports and exciting outdoor adventures year-round.

Restaurants That Serve Up The Tastiest Sandwiches In Las Vegas, According To Reviews

By Jenna Intersimone

Las Vegas teems with high-profile eateries run by famous chefs. But if you want a stripped-back experience with a scrumptious sandwich, here's where to go.

Waves crash onto Narragansett Town Beach at sunset

New England's Beloved Coastal Destination Boasts Mouthwatering Food And A Panoramic Beach

By Robert Isenberg

This Northeastern destination is a quick trip from a major city and is the perfect place for a summer vacation full of beachy fun and amazing food.

Seattle's Picturesque Wooden Boat Center Offers Charming Free 'Peapod' Rowboat Rentals

By Anna Robinson

Seattle is a modern city with lots to do. But there's a quaint, wooden boat center that'll transport you in time as you rent free "peapod" rowboats.