Adapting to sanitary and safety measures due to the current global situation has quickly become part of our lives. In the beginning, the amount of uncertainty that took over our routines, thoughts, and plans seemed to completely flip our ideas of normality, putting everything to a halt. However, the more we’ve come together, the more we’ve become acquainted with ways of moving on with our lives safely. In the spirit of wanting to enjoy the rest of our summer, we’ve created a list of the best places to visit in every state during COVID. We want to provide everyone with small getaway ideas that are safe, yet fun for the entire family.
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Alabama: Dolphin Cruise in Orange Beach
Making the most out of the hot weather in Alabama doesn’t get any better than going on a boat trip to catch a glimpse of the friendliest animals of the sea. It’s the perfect way to spend some time under the sun after being indoors for so long. Most boats depart from Orange Beach, so pack a picnic before you ride into the sunset. Being in Alabama is definitely a privilege when it comes to dolphin cruises, so make sure you don’t miss out!
Alaska: Bear Tour, Pack Creek
Alaska is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. In the summer, immersing yourself into the deep forests is definitely one of the greatest things Alaska offers. With COVID-19 this year, looking for outdoor activities is probably the best way to stay safe, and keep ourselves busy. When you’re in Alaska, enjoying the outdoors is definitely not difficult to do – especially since there’s so much wonderful wildlife to explore!
One of the best things to do in Alaska during COVID-19 is booking a day tour in Pack Creek. Located in the heart of Admiralty Island, around 1,600 brown bears are waiting to get discovered by curious visitors. We recommend booking a guided tour because it is a way to make sure you can see them. But if you’re lucky, you may be able to spot them on your own trail.
Arizona: Phoenix Mural Walk
Arizona is mostly known for its spectacular deserts and the iconic Grand Canyon. But Phoenix, its capital city is full of colorful murals that are perfect to discover on a hot summer day. Through the years, the walls of the Valley have increasingly gotten taken over by a wide variety of talented artists. Besides making the city look unique, the murals have an important creative role in sustaining creativity in local communities. There are several mural walking mural tours you could book that include meeting local artists or enter their studios. During these times, it may be a great idea to support local businesses. But you may also enjoy building your own walking route around the murals and get surprised at every turn!
Arkansas: Crystal Bridges Museum
As part of Arkansas’ reopening plan, cultural and entertainment centers have started to open with restrictions, and with capped capacity. But if planned in advance, attending the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a great place to visit during COVID. Its permanent collection includes five centuries of American art from the colonial era to our modern day. There are educational programs for children, and a delicious restaurant possible to eat in after a visit. Besides galleries of paintings, there are around 3 miles of walking trails among beautiful gardens and landscapes.
Website: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art Address: 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712, United States Opening Hours: Sat - Mon 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Tue Closed Wed - Fri 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Cost: Free
California: Beach Days
It’s not summer in California without going to the beach. Picking “the best beach in California” is a near to impossible task, so we thought to give you our opinion on the top beaches to visit in California during COVID. Personally, we find La Jolla, Pfeiffer Beach, Capitola City Beach, Pescadero Beach and Rincon Beach Park to make the best places to visit during COVID for a weekend getaway. If you enjoy surfing, several of these beaches are known all around the world for the best waves so you’ll be in for a ride! Otherwise, sitting on the white sand watching the sunset with a homemade picnic is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon with the family. Although beaches are open to the public, practicing social distancing is nevertheless a requirement.
Colorado: Royal Gorge Route
One of the most breathtaking scenes of Colorado are experienced through a train ride across the Colorado Rockies. The Royal Gorge Route promises a one of a kind experience with nature and dining. This summer, you’ll be able to alternate between the indoor and outdoor sections of the train. For COVID, the train is still continuing to function by implementing the ultimate sanitary measures. Handles, seats, menus, and touchpoints are constantly being wiped down and cleaned. The Royal Gorge Route is definitely one of the best things to do for summer 2023!
Website: Royal Gorge Route Address: Royal Gorge Route Railroad, 330 Royal Gorge Boulevard Cañon City, Co 81212 Cost: Check their website for their available plans
Connecticut: Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk
The state of Connecticut encourages residents and visitors to primarily engage in outdoor activities. If you’re not up for too many state parks and national parks the Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk is a great option for casual afternoon activity with the family. Found along the Riverfront, you’ll walk among award-winning sculptures representing the legacy of Abraham Lincoln. There is a mobile guide available with interesting information about Lincoln himself, and how his hard work is reflected on the sculptures. Take your time to visit other parts of the Riverfront; perhaps going for a stroll around the Riverside Park.
Delaware: Delaware Water Gap
In Delaware, the beautiful Water Gap Park is open and available with restrictions. Visitors are asked to avoid crowded trails, which is only an invitation to discover new, less traveled trails! Social distancing is still to be practiced. For a full day of activity and family bonding, heading over to the park is a great idea. We recommend starting early to avoid being crowds as much as possible. Either way, there’s more than enough space to fit you all there! Take a picnic with you to keep your energy up, since it’s unlikely you’ll find much to eat when you’re there.
Website: Delaware Water Gap Address: Opening Hours: 24 hours Cost: Free
District of Columbia: International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is one of the most insightful hubs for the deepest secrets about what goes on in the secret world of intelligence. Immerse yourself in the art of espionage and in the role it has had throughout history. It’s hands-on, interactive exhibitions keep the kids busy, and lets them release some energy from being indoors for so long. It’s one of the best places to visit during COVID for their excellent crowd management and respect for safety regulations.
Website: International Spy Museum Address: Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Cost: Adult (13 to 64 years old) $24.95 Youth (7 to 12 years old) $16.95 Child (6 and under years old) Free Senior and Students $22.95
Florida: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Florida’s Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best places to find peace and time to reconnect with nature. During COVID, it’s been a little challenging to find the right time to be around places as beautiful as this. But as part of their reopening plan, Florida has made it possible for visitors to stroll around the birds and alligators that live here.
We recommend taking the off-road trail Black Point Wildlife Drive. It’s a great spot for hiking, or even to bring your own kayak. Visitors are able to go everywhere except the visitor center which is currently closed.
Website: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Address: Merritt Island NWR, PO Box 2683, Titusville, FL 32781 Opening Hours: From sunrise to sunset Cost: $10 per vehicle entry into boat ramps and Black Point Wildlife Drive
Georgia: Historic Self-Guided Walk
Georgia is one of the states most saturated and filled with history. Milledgeville is one of the most beautiful areas of Georgia, across the waters of Lake Sinclair. Here, you’ll find some of the most wonderful homes that have remained since the Civil War. Going on a historic self-guided walking tour is a great way to discover over 40 amazing standing pieces of history iconic to Georgia.
We suggest you start your tour at the top of the city, where the Old Capitol Building is. On your way down, you’ll see houses of gorgeous architectural styles; including the Old Governor’s Mansion. When you finish your tour, you’ll love dining in one of Milledgeville charming restaurants.
Hawaii: Pillbox Hike
Hawaii is nothing less than the land of good hiking and magical natural resources. Since June 5th, state parks have reopened, including popular hikes are. There are hundreds of hikes to go on in Hawaii, but there’s one in particular that we have in mind. The Pillbox Hike, otherwise known as the Kaiwa Ridge Trail is one of the best hikes to do in Oahu. The view of the beach from the highest point of the hills is absolutely stunning. Since it’s in the outdoors, it will be quite simple to comply with safety regulations. After spending so much time indoors, this is definitely one of the best places to visit during COVID.
Idaho: Nez Perce National Historical Park
Found in the North West of Idaho, The Nez Perce National Historical Park is one of the best places to visit during COVID. The park is actually huge – there are more than 38 sites to visit in this park; it actually spreads over 4 different spaces.
We recommend that you visit some of the park’s most sacred places like Buffalo Eddy, Leonore and Weis Rockshelter. Most of these were adopted as homes and places of worship for our ancestors since over 8000 years ago. You’ll be able to see the remains of pit houses, and even evidence of petroglyphs on the walls. Petroglyphs are painted or engraved designs into a rock, dating back to 4500 years ago. It’s a great weekend getaway idea to learn and explore such special stories about the past.
Website: Nez Perce National Historical Park Address: Nez Perce National Historical Park, 39063 US Hwy 95, Lapwai, ID 83540-9715 Opening Hours: Daily 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM Cost: Free
Illinois: SkyView Drive-In Theater
Celebrating its 70th season, the iconic Litchfield SkyView Drive-In is happy to welcome you. It’s the last functioning theater in the well-travelled Route 66, so it’s definitely one of the best places to visit during COVID. Since people are meant to watch movies from their cars, you won’t need to worry about too many restrictions. The only rule is that 6 feet are kept between cars! Visitors are welcome to sit on top of their cars too.
They have showings Friday through Sunday, so it’s perfect if you’re also thinking of going as a stopover while on a road trip.
Website: Litchfield SkyView Drive-In Address: 1500 Old Rte 66 N, Litchfield, IL 62056, United States Opening Hours: Fri - Sun 7:30 PM - late Cost: $7 per person. Children under 5 years old are free
Indiana: Grannie’s Cookie Jar & Ice Cream
If you’re looking for an out of the ordinary place to visit during COVID, Indiana’s Grannie’s Cookie Jar & Ice Cream is the perfect option. Located in Metamora, this small shop is home to over 2600 cookie jars and an ice cream parlor buried within waves of cookies since 1988.
From Bugs Bunny fruit baskets to homemade waffle cones, you’ll find yourself getting lost in what seems to be endless aisles of sugar and joy. It’s a fantastic way to see a little of the town’s quirky, ominous side it’s known for.
Address: Historic Metamora, Indiana 1838 Canal Town
Opening Hours:
Wed - Sun 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Mon - Tue 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Iowa: National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium
The National Mississippi River and Aquarium is one of the best places to visit when you’re looking to get a little distracted from being indoors for so long. The museum has the objective of protecting the life and history of Iowa while creating more knowledgeable and engage citizens out of its visitors.
Here, you’ll find all kinds of animals and wildlife like alligators, sting ways, sharks octopus, turtles, and otters. There are also caves, boat workshops, a museum about the First River People, the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and much more. Visits are possible as long as safe social distancing measures are taken, and face masks are worn.
Websites: The National Mississippi River and Aquarium Address: 350 East 3rd Street, Port of Dubuque, Iowa 52001 Opening Times: Daily 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Cost: Adult $19.95 Child (3 to 17 years old) $14.95 Senior $17.95
Kansas: The Wichita Gardens
For a breath of fresh air, going to The Wichita Gardens is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. There are over 24 themed gardens to discover spread along 17 acres. Besides the 3600 species of plants there are to see, there are fountains, waterfalls and sculptures. We recommend going to the Butterfly Garden the most, butterflies fly around freely, and if you’re lucky you’ll get one on your shoulder. For a colorful day among nature under the hot summer sun, it’s definitely a great option. Since it’s outdoors, you won’t need to worry too much about safety measures except for keeping a 6 foot distance between other people.
Website: Botanica Address: 701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203, United States Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Cost: Adult $9 Children (3 to 12 years old) $6 Under 2 years old are free
Kentucky: Russell Fork Whitewater Rafting
After so many months of being restricted in activities, going whitewater rafting in Russell Fork is one of the best things to do during COVID. Russell Fork is an amazing 51 mile long tributary close to the amazing Appalachian Mountains. It’s a great weekend activity for when you’re craving a little more excitement and adrenaline with the family or friends that will definitely count as one of your fondest memories.
There are several companies that offer guided rafting adventures. There are limited group capacities but for groups under 6 people, it should be fine.
Louisiana: Atchafalaya National Heritage Area
The Atchafalaya National Heritage is one of Louisiana’s gems. Filled with countless opportunities of outdoor activities and adventures, it’s one of the best places to visit during COVID. Besides being incredibly beautiful, taking time to visit such a sacred and special piece of paradise is actually quite a good way to let go of any concerns you’ve had during the past few months, and focus on spending quality time with your family.
You can choose between doing a wide range of activities like paddling, biking, fishing, camping, and bird watching.
Maine: Whale Watching
For many people, Maine is one of the most beautiful states in the country – personally, we can’t argue with that. One of the biggest advantages of Maine is its 3500 miles of coastline where you can spot some of the most incredible natural scenes starring the largest mammals in the world – whales. Being in the middle of summer, booking a whale watching trip for an afternoon is one of the best things to do during COVID for a much needed dose of excitement and thrill for the whole family. Young kids are particularly fond of this – and seeing such amounts of happiness in their faces is rewarding enough.
We recommend going to Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, Portland or Lubec for the best chances to sport these gorgeous animals.
Maryland: The Tubman Byway
Maryland has an incredible history of danger and courage. It’s about the men and women who risked it all in the pursuit of freedom and equality. One woman who stood out during this journey is Harriet Tubman, a freedom seeker and human rights activist Maryland is proud to call its own daughter. This courageous leader was the operator the Underground Railroad; a secret society of people and routes that provided shelter and help to escaping slaves.
Although the Harriet Tubman Museum is closed due to the pandemic, we strongly encourage you to complete the Tubman Byway road trip. This is a self-directed tour with more than 30 important places relevant to Harriet’s story to visit such as the Harriet Tubman mural, the memorial garden, the Bordess Farm, the Bucktown Village Store, and many more. There are also free audio guides available so you can fully grasp what went on, and understand the significance of this area.
Massachusetts: Old Sturbridge Village
One of the best places to visit during COVID in Massachusetts definitely has to be the Old Sturbridge Village. This is the largest outdoor museum of the Northeast, replicating life in rural New England in the 1800s. Explore history by walking into over 40 original buildings, schools, homes, working farms and a lot more over 200 acres of land. There are also fully costumed historians happy to give you information and insights into how life used to be like. It’s one of the best museums of the state; we couldn’t recommend it more!
Website: Old Sturbridge Village Address: Old Sturbridge Inn & Reeder Family Lodges, 369 Main Street Sturbridge, MA 01566 Opening Hours: Wed - Sun 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Cost: Adults $28 Child $14 (Upto 3 kids of 17 years old or younger are admitted for free when accompanied by an adult in July 2020.) Students $14 Seniors $26
Michigan: Lighthouse Tour
Lake Michigan is known for its picturesque collection of lighthouses. If you’re looking for a casual, pleasant activity for a warm summer day, going on a lighthouse tour around the lake is one of the best things to do during COVID. Every light house is unique, making the views of Lake Michigan unlike anywhere else in the UK.
The Lake Michigan Circle Tour route has been open since the 1980s, including over 100 lighthouses, islands, parks, and beaches you can stop for a break. We recommend packing lunch and swimming gear to make this summer day the best it can be.
Minnesota: See the Northern Lights
One of the best places to visit during COVID in Minnesota are Cook County, Voyageurs National Park, Lake of the Woods and the Northwest Angle. Why? Because they’re the state’s hotspots for the Northern lights. Seeing the Northern Lights is one of the most sought after activities for many people around the world, so having the opportunity to see them in your own state is definitely a privilege.
We suggest going on a camping trip for a couple of nights to increase the chances of you seeing this natural spectacle. Besides the lights, you’ll be able to see the Milky Way, shooting stars, and even meteor showers.
Mississippi: Ocean Springs
Ocean Springs is located at the heart of Mississippi Gulf. It’s mostly known for its vibrant arts community, its beautiful green spaces and of course, the coastline. It’s a great little city filled with small businesses, restaurants, galleries and an overall relaxed atmosphere that
feels lovely to be around. Some people enjoy staying here overnight in order to discover its quirky secrets as much as possible. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in COVID for a getaway!
Missouri: Visit Main Street St. Charles
The Main Street region is Missouri is the largest district nationally recognized as a historic site. It’s packed with charming, one of a kind shops inside restored buildings since the 1800s. It does a great job at showcasing the atmosphere of early America by celebrating tobacco, books, fine jewelry, clothing, and more unique to that area. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants for you to discover when you’re done shopping.
Make sure to look out for local farmer’s markets, street shows, dive-in movie nights, and other events you can join with the family!
Website: St Charles Missouri
Montana: Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
Located in West Yellowstone, The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is one of the best places to visit COVID. Experience seeing incredible grizzly bears and gray wolves in their natural habitat up close. The animals that reside in the center have been rescued after becoming orphans, or which were born in captivity and are unable to return to the wild. There are different packs of beautiful wolves and bear families that are an absolute pleasure to observe and admire. Don’t forget to visit the river otters!
Website: Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center Address: 201 South Canyon, West Yellowstone MT 59758 Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cost: Adult $13 Child (5 - 12 years old) $10 Child (under 4 years old) Free Seniors $14
Nebraska: Ashfall Fossil Beds
Spreading among 360 acres of land in the Verdigre Creek valley, the Ashfall Fossil Beds will make sure you have a great day. You’ll be able to visit their interpretative displays, the fossil preparation lab, and even ask local paleontologists about their work. It’s a great way to know about the age of the dinosaurs, and explore how knowing about them can be beneficial to us today.
If you want to make a bigger out of it, you’re welcome to camp in the Grove Lake Wildlife Management, or eat a picnic inside the park. It’s definitely a fun, different experience to go to as a family, making it to the list of best places to visit in COVID. Make sure you purchase your tickets in advance!
Website: Ashfall Fossil Beds Address: Ashfall Fossil Beds 86930 517 Ave Royal, NE 68773 Opening Hours: Wed - Sun 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Cost: Adults and children over 3 years old $7.50 Children Under 3 Free
Nevada: Seven Magic Mountains
Even though Las Vegas is by far the most known place to visit in Nevada, COVID has made it difficult to really experience it properly. But lucky for us, Nevada has a lot more to offer. The Seven Magic Mountains were originally only planned to stay on exhibit for 2 years but due to their incredible success, they’ve been awarded an extension until the end of 2021.
Made by the internationally known artists Ugo Rondinone, this art installation comprises seven stacks of colorful boulders. With the contrast of the iconic Nevada desert in the background, they make the landscape look like none other. It’s a great adventure to go on with the family and maybe do a little, fun photoshoot. Find it about 10 miles south of Las Vegas near Interstate 15 and Jean Dry Lake.
Website: Seven Magic Mountains
New Hampshire: Cog Railway
Even after 150 years, the Cog Railway in New Hampshire has been able to continue making passengers happy. Locomotives’ steep climb to the highest peak in the Northeast is not just thrilling, but they’ll give you an incredible view of the White Mountains; especially the Upper Ammonoosuc Falls. During the ride, make sure to stay alert for wildlife! There are quite a number of moose and bears that often make appearances. For these reasons, Cog Railway is one of the best places to visit in COVID.
Website: Cog Railway Address: 3168 Base Station Road, Mount Washington, NH 03589
New Jersey: Visit Cape May
Cape May is one of the most beautiful areas of New Jersey. Decorated with beautiful Victorian homes, beaches, and a historic, it’s a common destination for tourists. But it’s equally a wonderful neighbourhood to stroll around as locals! Take your time to imagine what life would be like living inside one of these mansions, and you won’t even notice how fast time flies by. We suggest stopping for dips at the beach or ice cream at Delaware Bay to give a good ending to this nice, casual summer day.
New Mexico: Pecos Pueblo
Pecos Pueblo used to be one of the most important trading centers, and home to around 2000 people. After the Spanish settlement in 1598, the Pueblo residents managed to stay standing. Today, its ruins are no less impressive than what it used to look like centuries ago. The church is probably the oldest yet best preserved building there is to see here; it truly is incredible to be able to see such an authentic piece of history.
New York: New York Botanical Garden
During COVID, it must be very frustrating living in New York. So many amazing things to see, yet often get way too crowded to be able to both enjoy and engage with them properly. But New York never disappoints. The New York Botanical Garden is one of the best places to visit in COVID because of its beautiful outdoor setting, and endless gardens to explore. From native plant gardens to enchanting rose gardens, you’ll definitely have a wonderful day. Due to restricted capacity, remember to book your tickets in advance.
Website: NYBG Address: 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, New York 10458 Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Cost: Adult $15 Children (2-12 years old) $4 Children under 2 years old Free Students $7 Seniors $7
North Carolina: Nags Head
Nags Head in North Carolina simply screams summer. After being locked up, it’s definitely the best place to visit during COVID. Whether you’re into surfing, laying the sun, going on coastal walks or simply relaxing by the water, Nags Head will not fail at making your summer the best it can be. Take a few days (or even weeks) to embrace the sea, nature, and beach life.
North Dakota: Enchanted Highway Sculptures
Who doesn’t love a road trip? Starting at Exit 72 on I-94, highway sculptures will decorate your view for 32 miles. During COVID, driving through the highway sculptures is a great little day-adventure you can do with your family or friends – we recommend taking a camera and getting creative with a fun photoshoot. Each sculpture has a parking spot, so it’s easy to pull over between them. If you want to take an extra souvenir home, there’s a gift shop in Regent with miniatures and postcards.
Ohio: American Sign Museum
Located in Cincinnati, the American Sign Museum is dedicated to the iconic commercial signs the world knows America by. The museum covers over 100 years of American signs! From signs dating back to when electricity didn’t exist until today, we can be sure you’ll be surprised by how much there is to say about them. For a dose of out-of-the-ordinary fun, the American Sign Museum is one of the best places to visit during COVID.
Oklahoma: Turner Falls Park
Turner Falls Park is proud to be home to some of the most largest waterfalls of the state. In normal times, this park attracts visitors from all over the country, so you can be sure it’s a genuinely amazing place to visit; especially during summer. Under the 23 meter tall waterfall, a beautiful natural pool is waiting for you to take a dip. Whether you’re going on a hike, exploring the caves, hiking or admiring the view, you can be sure you’ll have a great day. To us, it’s definitely one of the best places to visit during COVID. Overnight stay is possible, so make sure to check the possibility of going on a camping trip!
Website: Turner Falls Park Address: Turner Falls Park, I-35 & US Highway 77, Davis, Oklahoma Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM Cost: Adult $16 Child (6 - 12 years old) $9 Senior $9
Oregon: Visit Multnomah Falls
Located in the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area, the Multnomah Falls is one of the best places to visit during COVID. The area, in general, is known for its incredible views and landscapes; but Multnomah is definitely the scene that attracts most visitors. It’s a great way of reconnecting back to nature and reminding you of the natural beauties that are found within the state. Trails are now open for hikers. Something good to know is that pets are allowed inside the park, which is great news for making family plans!
Pennsylvania: The Andy Warhol Museum
Pennsylvania is very proud to be the birthplace of revolutionary artist, Andy Warhol.The Andy Warhol museum goes way beyond being one of the best places to visit during COVID. It’s one of the best museums to visit in the country! The museum showcases many of Warhol’s best and most iconic works known around the world. Their objective is to connect visitors with Warhol’s life, message and legacy. Dive into a colorful world of experimentation, let yourself be challenged and pushed to interesting discussions about the modern way of living.
Website: The Andy Warhol Museum Address: 117 Sandusky Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 Opening Hours: Mon Closed Tue - Wed, Sat-Sun 10:00 AM- 5:00 PM Fri 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Cost: Adult: $20 Children (3-18 years old) $10 Children (0-2) Free Students & Seniors $10
Rhode Island: Mohegan Bluffs
If you’re looking to spend a great summer day in Rhode Island, look no further than the Mohegan Bluffs. At the bottom of these wonderful 200 ft tall cliffs, there is a secluded beach perfect for swimming and surfing. But be prepared to climb down 141 steps! From The top of the cliffs you can see all the way to the farthest tip of Long Island, and an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean.
South Carolina: Watch the Sunset at The Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve
The Botany Bay Plantation Heritage has been popular among photographers who come and admire the spectacular view of the sunrise or sunset. It is most popularly known for its distinctive dead trees at the beach that although may sound quite dark, give the reserve a unique personality. This is a clear indication that it’s one of the best places to visit during COVID. Plan a casual day of walking on the beach and picnicking around the reserve, and stay until the sun goes down. It’s truly a beautiful sight we couldn’t recommend enough on a warm summer day.
South Dakota: Rapid City’s Art Alley
If you’re interested in seeing something different and special in South Dakota, you’ll find it in Rapid City. For a few hours of creativity and fun, Art Alley is one of the best places to visit during COVID. Artists and community members have done a great job at injecting vibrancy and life into the city through amazing murals. They represent political ideas, tell stories about personal journeys, and express a world of thoughts about the world and communities we find ourselves in. It’s definitely worth spending some time here!
Tennessee: Graceland
If you’re from Tennessee, you’ve probably been overwhelmed with tourism about Elvis. But can we really complain? He’s the King of Rock! After being indoors for so long, what better way to celebrate the reopening of business than paying a visit to the residence of the icon who has brought this city to life? The Graceland Mansion looks pretty much exactly as Elvis left it. Although there’s limited capacity, this just helps create a much closer and intimate experience!
Website: Graceland Address: 3717 Elvis Presley Blvd. Memphis, TN 38116 Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sun 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Cost: Adult $69.00 - $73.00 Children (5 to 10 years old) $38.00 - $42.00 Children under 4 years old Free Seniors $62.70 - $66.70
Texas: Kayak through Caddo Lake
Texas has too many incredible places to visit during COVID that it feels impossible to choose just one. But for the time being, we had to settle on kayaking down the Caddo Lake. Dating back as far as 1100 AD, this lake is the only natural lake in the state. If that’s impressive, we’re not sure what is. Get lost among the lush greenery and trees that make it so unique; perhaps even consider it one of a kind in the entire country.
Utah: Monument Valley
Monument Valley is without a doubt one of the best places to visit during COVID. There has never been a time where this majestic landscape has managed to disappoint, and it will be an incredible piece of natural beauty to appreciate after so many months of being restricted to our homes. Whether you’re a Utah resident or not, Monument Valley can easily be agreed as being among the best things that the US has to offer.
Vermont: Visit Stowe
When people think of Vermont, it’s highly likely a clear image of Stowe pops into their heads. Why? Well, it’s quite simply one of the most charming towns in the state. Coming to Stowe is one of the best places to visit in COVID because of several reasons. It’s a great way to help move the economy along as businesses start to reopen, and it’s also like a breath of fresh air to see something so picturesque and beautiful after difficult months. You can be sure you’ll always find something to do here!
Virginia: Visit Williamsburg
With original buildings from the 18th century, Williamsburg in Virginia is one of the best places to experience the American Revolution period to the fullest. There is something for everyone – a multitude of restaurants, shops, history museums, and even beautiful trails for hiking and biking. We recommend you reserve an entire day to have the full experience – you won’t regret it!
Washington: Coulee Corridor
Washington state is every nature lover’s dream. The Coulee Corridor is one of the best places to visit during COVID because of how easy it is to navigate it, and for how good of a summer destination it is for the family. There are plenty of things to do here besides covering it by car – you can go fishing, visit the Grand Coulee Dam, and visit the Wildlife Refuge. Otherwise, walking across its most iconic trails is rewarding enough!
West Virginia: Exhibition Coal Mine
Exhibition Coal Mine is a small, yet great museum to visit in West Virginia. It takes you through the dark corridors and tunnels of a vintage coal mine, guided by real veteran miners. You’ll be able to hear their stories and experiences first handedly, and lose yourself what reality would look like as a miner.
Wisconsin: Harley Davidson Museum
For a rush of adrenaline, there’s no better place to visit in Wisconsin than the Harley Davidson Museum. You can expect to be surrounded by rich descriptions and explanations about the history of such culturally symbolic machines; powerful enough to have created entire subcultures and networks around the world.
Wyoming: Grand Prismatic Spring
There’s not a chance anything else but the Grand Prismatic Spring is the place to visit during COVID in Wyoming. No matter how many times you’ve seen it before, it somehow always manages to take breaths away, and encourage us to appreciate the incredible things the planet can come up with on its own. To let go of any worries or concerns you may have in these few months, visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring will automatically make you feel much better.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our long list of suggestions of the best places to visit during COVID. What have been your favorite spots to see? What have you missed the most? Let us know in the comments!
