According to U.S. News’ list of 18 best places to visit in the U.S., these 5 natural water sources show up near the top. All the best places to visit and live include a body of water, perhaps for its soothing quality you look for in a vacation. Whether your focus is historical, affordable, nature, exercise, shopping, or dining, there is a perfect destination for you and your family. Consider one of these 5 spots that include an amazing natural water source for your next vacation.
Grand Canyon/Colorado River
The Grand Canyon is voted #1 adventure vacation spot in the U.S. Available activities include hardcore hiking, horseback riding, white river rafting, and a viewing from small plane. The making of the canyon itself was an adventure, being carved out by the raging Colorado River over a period of centuries. If you don’t appreciate crowds or are looking for a natural get-a-way from man, this might not be the spot for you. The Grand Canyon makes a popular addition to people’s Arizona or Las Vegas vacations and can be quite crowded. You can save money by taking this vacation in late August when the crowds die down a bit.
The Ocean Surrounding Maui
Maui is voted #1 romantic, relaxing, and luxurious vacation destinations in the U.S. The Island is sandwiched between The Big Island and Molokai. It’s considered a very safe destination, with a low crime rate and is rich in history and wildlife, satisfying any type of vacationer and their desires. Kaanapali Beach offers wildlife you wouldn’t see from any other beach in the United States. 5 species of sea turtle and whales swimming in the distance are common. Surfing and snorkeling are popular “to dos”. You can save yourself some money on this trip by visiting the beach, rather than staying on it in a hotel with an ocean view.
Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park has been voted #1 in affordable vacation destinations and has several water sources worth finding, photographing, and enjoying. Among them is Old Faithful, the most famous geyser in the world. A geyser is a hot spring that water boils inside until it erupts a stream of water into the air. Old Faithful is named this because it erupts every 35 – 120 minutes for 3-5 minutes straight. Other bodies of water worth viewing at Yellowstone include a lake, other hot springs and waterfalls. Although Yellowstone is a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts, you won’t likely run into many people during your visit other than at Old Faithful. You can save money by going during a non-summer month when campground rates are highest.
San Francisco Bay
If you enjoy bussleing cities as well as natural water sources, San Francisco can give you both. You can see the famous Golden Gate Bridge, visit the Fisherman’s Wharf and see Alcatraz from a distance, or enjoy sea lions up close on the bay. One advantage this location has over the others is its vote for #1 shopping and dining. If these points are important to you, consider this vacation spot. Again, save money by going in a non-summer month and use public transportation because bringing or renting a car is a big hassle.
The Tidal Basin In Potomac Park, Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. Is ranked a #1 vacation spot for families and a #1 historical and educational destination. While visiting, you can enjoy walking around this 2 mile long pond that was once connected to The Potomac River. One of the most important factors to consider when planning this vacation is season. The pond is lined with cherry blossom trees that are best viewed in bloom in March or April. There is even a National Cherry Blossom Festival you could catch! March 15th through Labor Day you can enjoy the pond by paddle boat for only 14.00 per hour. The park is full of other treasures for your discovery and delight.