Although many people don’t like to travel far for vacation, have you considered visiting the Western United States this year? The majority of Americans prefer to travel within the US, so a trip to the West is an ideal situation. There are a multitude of fantastic places there, just waiting for you to discover them.

Great travel destination one: Tourists just love the state of Washington. The state offers both urban and natural wonders, vacation spots for every type of person. A visit to Rattlesnake Mountain or Cape Alava could be perfect for those who like to hike and bike across beautiful trails, but cruises and tours are also available. For those who prefer an urban setting, a few days in Seattle will give you the best of what Washington has to offer.

Vacation hint number two: Don’t think that there’s nothing in Nevada except casinos. World-class skiing is available in Lake Tahoe, along with golfing, hiking, and snowmobiling. For those with dreams of riding the range, a visit to the cowboys and ranchers in the northern part of the state can be quite exhilarating. A trip farther south will bring you to the desert and former Pony Express country. You can drive along the same route that these early mail carriers took while imagining what it would be like.

Tip number three: Water sports in Arizona. The deserts state isn’t immediately associated with water and boating, but it does have lakes, and some of them are a paradise for boating and water activities. The best one might just be Lake Pleasant, just thirty miles north of Phoenix. It offers excellent water skiing, sailing, jet skiing and fishing. Fifty miles of shoreline and crystal clear water makes it a great stop on your holiday.

Vacation hint number four: Believe it or not, you should definitely check out the multitude of cultural activities available in Salt Lake City, Utah. The capital city boasts an opera company, a ballet company, a symphony orchestra, and many prestigious theaters. There is also the local flavor to experience. For those who are visiting for the first time, the Mormon influence adds a touch of flair to this all-American city.

Great travel destination five: Have you ever been to Yosemite? Everyone’s heard of it, so itas time to finally make the trip. In contrast to the parts of California that are more well known and highly overcrowded, this national park is quite soothing and refreshing with its beautiful redwoods and scenic mountains. There is also the scenic drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to look forward to, with historic sites from Monterey’s Cannery Row to Lone Cyprus to the Carmel Mission that’s over 200 years old.

Tip number six: A long weekend in Portland, Oregon. The Portland Metropolitan area is a big city not quite like other big cities. With its vibrant arts community, multitude of parks and green spaces, excellent public transportation and generally liveable atmosphere, Portland is pleasant and friendly as well as urban and exciting.

No matter what your interests are, you will find something to enjoy in the Western part of the United States. Hopefully, these tips will give you an idea of where you can go on your next vacation, but you can always go out and explore new places on your own. Thatas how some of the best secrets are discovered. Have a wonderful time!