2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, with nationwide celebrations taking place on 4th July. As Americans reflect on the country’s history and identity, many are also looking closer to home for their next adventure and seeking the top bucket list destinations in America.
With only around half of the population holding a passport, there’s a growing opportunity for U.S. residents to rediscover what the country has to offer.
That’s why global house sitting platform TrustedHousesitters has discovered the ultimate bucket list every American should tick off – and Arizona claims two spots on the list.
The Top 15 Bucket List Destinations in America
TrustedHousesitters created a weighted ranking including metrics such as U.S. Google search volume, trend, and Yelp ratings to reveal the top 15 bucket list destinations in the U.S.
| Rank | Destination | State | US Google Search Volume (past year) | US Google Search Trend (past year) (%) | Yelp rating | Final Score/100 |
| 1 | Point Lobos State Natural Reserve | California | 49,500 | 309.0 | 4.9 | 96.7 |
| 2 | Mount Rainier National Park | Washington | 74,000 | 83.0 | 4.8 | 73.8 |
| 3 | White Rock Lake | Texas | 60,500 | 123.0 | 4.6 | 69.3 |
| 4 | Dry Tortugas National Park | Florida | 74,000 | 22.0 | 4.7 | 53.3 |
| 5 | Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Michigan | 40,500 | 0.0 | 4.8 | 55.5 |
| 6 | White Sands National Park | New Mexico | 135,000 | 49.0 | 4.8 | 51.0 |
| 7 | Cades Cove | Tennessee | 110,000 | 82.0 | 4.4 | 46.5 |
| 8 | Torch Lake | Michigan | 74,000 | -18.0 | 4.8 | 46.4 |
| 9 | Cannon Beach | Oregon | 165,000 | 50.0 | 4.7 | 44.1 |
| 10 | Arches National Park | Utah | 201,000 | 22.0 | 4.8 | 39.6 |
| 11 | Big Bear Lake | California | 90,500 | 22.0 | 4.3 | 37.3 |
| 12 | Fall Creek Falls State Park | Tennessee | 90,500 | 0.0 | 4.5 | 30.4 |
| 13 | Acadia National Park | Maine | 301,000 | 0.0 | 4.8 | 23.5 |
| =14 | Antelope Canyon | Arizona | 246,000 | 0.0 | 4.7 | 19.0 |
| =14 | Havasu Falls | Arizona | 110,000 | 0.0 | 4.1 | 19.0 |
Antelope Canyon and Havasu Falls at No. 14
Antelope Canyon is one of the most photographed landmarks in the American Southwest, drawing 246,000 U.S. searches in the past year. Its 4.7/5 Yelp rating confirms it consistently delivers on its reputation. It’s a slot canyon of extraordinary light and colour that belongs on any American’s bucket list.
Havasu Falls, by contrast, is an underrated gem. It has 110,000 searches, which is lower than Antelope Canyon, but in this ranking, that’s actually a mark in its favour. The methodology rewards lower search volume as an indicator of hidden gem status, meaning Havasu Falls earns its joint ranking through being less well-known, as well as genuine quality. Located within the Havasupai tribal lands in the Grand Canyon, it’s a striking turquoise waterfall that remains far less visited.
The fact two destinations land on the same score speaks to the breadth of Arizona’s bucket list appeal, and gives travellers two different reasons to book a trip.
Tips for ticking off your bucket list on a budget
Experts from TrustedHousesitters reveal how to visit these stunning bucket-list destinations on a budget:
- Plan ahead: This list includes both hidden gems and famous bucket-list must-haves, so make sure you plan if you want to hit a popular spot. Trails, parking, and visit passes can get booked up in the summer season, and you want to make sure you don’t miss out on any activities.
- Travel off-peak: Timing can make a huge difference when ticking off bucket list destinations. Travelling outside of the peak window and being flexible can considerably lower transport, accommodation, and ticket costs. Flexibility also opens up last-minute deals and quieter experiences.
- Alternative accommodation: Accommodation near popular or trending destinations can get booked up quickly, and can come with a price. Opting for a more authentic homestay, such as pet sitting with TrustedHousesitters, means you can immerse yourself in the local culture, without paying a high price – and with a cute furry companion by your side!
