The western United States offers something for everyone, from the glamorous Los Angeles to neon-lit Las Vegas, to the natural wonders of Yosemite and Canyonlands. It is not an area that can be visited in just a few days. weeks or even years and we have put together a list of the best places to visit in western United States Two regions make up the West part of the United States. The Mountain States include Arizona, Colorado and Idaho as well as Montana, Nevada (New Mexico), Utah, Utah, and Wyoming. California, Oregon, Washington are the Pacific states.
For adrenaline lovers, the Rockies are the best place to go. While those looking to relax can head to sunny California to enjoy wine tasting in Sonoma. Along with California’s coastal cities, the spectacular Pacific is a popular destination. There are so many gems in the West that you can’t even count them.
Below are the best places to visit in western United States:

Las Vegas Strip
Las Vegas is known for its luck and offers many chances to try your luck. From the excitement of the casinos to nightlife and bars to winning love or money, Las Vegas is a great place to gamble. Red Rock Canyon is a spectacular day trip destination that can be enjoyed if the excitement gets too intense. It’s only 30 minutes from Las Vegas’ main strip.
San Francisco
Many people leave their hearts in San Francisco. There’s a good reason why. It has everything you need, from Golden Gate Park and Golden Gate Bridge to Lombard Street and the Ferry Building Marketplace to the Embarcadero and Lombard Street. A definite must-see for best places to visit in western United States.
The Pacific Coast Highway
The Pacific Coast Highway (also known as California Route 1) is well-known for being one of the most beautiful road trips in the country. It runs 656 miles along California’s coast, from Leggett (in the north) to Dana Point (in the south). It runs between Monterey, Carmel and Carmel on California’s Central Coast.
The route also passes through Big Sur and San Luis Obisbo. It is a breathtaking view of the Pacific from the highway, which runs along the steep cliffs. Spend a few days in Monterey, Carmel, to see the famous Pebble Beach road and then embark on this incredible journey.
Route 66
Route 66, also known as the Mother Road, has been immortalized on song, TV, and legend. It dates back to 1926 and was one of the first highways built in the U.S. It was eventually replaced with interstate highways and now it is only for tourists who make sure to include this in the best places to visit in western United States. It begins in Chicago and winds toward the southwest before ending in Los Angeles. It can be picked up at any point along the route that runs through Illinois, St. Louis, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas Panhandle, Arizona, and New Mexico. The final leg crosses Southern California to end in LA.
California Wine
California Wine Country’s most popular regions, Sonoma and Napa, are located less than 50 miles from San Francisco. These are great for a day trip, or for a more peaceful escape. It’s a land full of mountains, valleys and rivers, forests, as well as vineyards. Enjoy the beauty of the countryside as you wander along two-lane roads to find wineries. You will need to take some time to explore Wine Country towns such as Sonoma and Healdsburg. You will have a memorable experience at each of these boutique hotels and bed-and breakfasts.
Barbara Santa
Santa Barbara’s stunning setting is anchored by the Santa Inez Mountains, which stretch west to the Pacific. The city’s historic downtown is known for its red-tile roofed white stucco buildings. If you want to tick off your list for the best places to visit in western United States, then you must visit the Mission-style train station (1786) and Mission Santa Barbara (1786), as well as its many shops and places to grab a bite.
Los Angeles
Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels has so many attractions, it can take a long time to see all of them. Disneyland (in Anaheim), and Hollywood are at the top of everyone’s wish list. Both are about fantasy, but in different ways. You can explore the San Gabriel Mission District which is the birthplace of Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and two other world-class museums, Getty and Los Angeles County Museum of Art. There are also the Channel Islands. To experience the real Pacific Ocean, drive south to Huntington Beach or Newport Beach. It is reminiscent of the French Riviera.
San Diego
San Diego is located just 120 miles from Los Angeles. The drive will take you to the city known for its beautiful coastline and idyllic climate. You can visit Balboa Park and Coronado Island along the way, as you continue to tick off the list for the best places to visit in western United States.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park offers a variety of natural beauty, including waterfalls, granite peaks and meadows. It also contains an ancient stand of giant sequoias known as the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Many parts of the park are not accessible in winter though. Before you visit this amazing place, make sure to check the website for information about the park and ask any questions.
Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is high up in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, at the California-Nevada border. It’s a popular ski destination in winter. In summer, visitors come to Lake Tahoe for the tranquility of the High Sierras and the opportunity to enjoy water sports at 6,225 feet. If you don’t feel like skiing or boating, visit Lake Tahoe’s shops and restaurants or go for a round of golf at one of the world-class courses.
When you are looking for the best places to visit in western United States, feel free to read through more of our great articles and book a flight or hotel today