Top 5 United States Bucket List

If you love travel, food, and adventure our United States has an endless number of options. From the rugged coastline of Big Sur, across the majestic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the peaceful fishing villages along the east coast. Travelers have thousands of itineraries to choose from. Several weeks ago my blog was about my top 5 favorite U.S. destinations that I have visited. I still have many places I wish to tour. I have done my research and narrowed it down based on adventure, novelty, and food. Here's my top 5 U.S. bucket list::

Filip Mroz - Unsplash

5. The U.S. Open tennis tournament with accommodations at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. I have attended lots of live sporting events, but I have yet to experience professional tennis. I've been told television cannot capture the power, agility, and speed of the sport. It is one of our nations oldest championships originating in 1881. The Open is a 2-week event with the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals played during the 2nd week (this is my preferred time to visit). The Plaza Hotel is a Manhattan landmark. This opulent luxury hotel opened in 1907 and is conveniently located in midtown, across the street from Central Park. It has been featured in many movies including; North by Northwest, Crocodile Dundee, Home Alone 2 (my favorite).

4. Hike into the Grand Canyon along the Bright Angel trail. As I was researching this trek I was impressed with the number of adventure seekers who have this on their bucket list. The hike is 9.3 miles to the campground located in the canyon. It is highly recommended to make this journey during the fall. Summer temperatures are extreme. Indian Garden is the midway point. Here you will find restrooms, water, shade, and a ranger station. It's a 4-5 hour hike in. The Phantom Ranch Canteen serves breakfast and dinner. It is a bit pricey, but I'm sure it is worth the bucket list experience. After a hearty steak dinner and a good nights sleep enjoy your 7-8 hour climb home.

3. Cruise the Mighty Mississippi River from St. Paul Minnesota to New Orleans, Louisiana. While in the Coast Guard I loved navigating, piloting a 45-foot vessels came naturally to me. The perfect voyage would last for 1 month and be self-paced, improvising along our route. My "must-stops" would include Hannibal, Missouri, home of Tom Sayer the "King of the River." Memphis, Tennessee for some great music on Beale Street and Vicksburg, Mississippi to take in some Civil War history. No need for hotels, the lower cabin is home sweet home for the month. Upon arrival in New Orleans, we have many dining options to celebrate. Brennan's or a Commander's Palace will top my list. For breakfast, Café du Monde for beignets and coffee.

2. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and lunch at Primanti Brothers in Pittsburgh. It's hard to believe the museum has been opened for 35 years, and I haven't visited yet. I love rock & roll. From the Beach Boys in the 60's to Electric Light Orchestra in the 70's, and of course, Punk Rock in the 80's. The exhibits have featured many famous artists, producers, and engineers like Elvis, Alice Cooper, The Clash, Tom Petty, and many more. The Hall is located in downtown Cleveland where you will also find Progressive Field home to the Cleveland Indians. Thanks to these venues, downtown has been majorly revitalized. A two- hour drive to Pittsburgh for a Primanti Brothers sandwich is a must. It's heaven on bread … messy and massive. Meat, homemade slaw, and a fistful of fries top off this tasty behemoth.

1. Visit all 50 states. I've got 38 down and 12 to go. In 2009 and 2010 I checked off our 49th and 50th states: Hawaii and Alaska. Personally, that was a huge accomplishment for my quest. The Mississippi cruise and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame trip will help me check off a few more. It's those 3 little states in the northeastern corner of our country that will be most relished. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine I have dubbed as my triple play with no outs in the bottom of the ninth. Of course, it will be done in the fall so I can compare the foliage of the east with the western United States.

This was tough to narrow down. As I mentioned earlier, America affords us so many incredible ventures. I have been blessed to chalk off many locations from my list. Most of these places I dreamed about visiting early in my childhood. I am so grateful parents and a grandmother who awakened my sense of adventure. Have a great time achieving your travel goals and let me know what's on your bucket list. Until next time … hope to see you on the road.