11 Once-In-A-Lifetime Tours That Show Off America's Most Breathtaking Landscapes
By Courtnie Erickson
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Published November 09, 2023
The United States is home to breathtaking scenery. From waterfalls in the Pacific Northwest to the sunsets in Florida, there are landscapes that you never want to forget. While there are many ways to enjoy these beautiful destinations, a tour is often one of the easiest — and the best. The logistics are thought out for you, there are guides to answer your questions, and you can simply relax and enjoy. While there are hundreds of tours in America, the following are 11 once-in-a-lifetime tours that show off some of the most beautiful areas of the country. From the Grand Canyon to the Maine countryside, these are places you’ll never want to forget.
1. Hike and Bike Tour to Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls: Portland, Oregon
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Oregon, USA
The Columbia River Gorge is a destination that belongs on every individual's bucket list. However, with so much to see in this breathtaking area, it is hard to know where to begin. This
hike and bike tour takes you to several of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge including Bridal Veil Falls,
Multnomah Falls , and Latourell Falls. This is one of the best tours to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the area.
2. Hot Air Balloon Ride Above Maine’s Countryside: Multiple locations in Maine
You will never look at Maine’s countryside the same after this
hot air balloon ride . For three hours, you will fly through the skies on a hot air balloon and capture some of the most gorgeous views of the Pine Tree State. Once your ride is over and you are back on the ground, you can celebrate with a champagne toast.
3. Chicago Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan: Chicago, Illinois
Not only will you enjoy a delicious dinner buffet and live DJ entertainment on this
signature dinner cruise , but you will also capture incredible views of one of the
most photographed skylines in America as well as Lake Michigan. The food on this tour in America is prepared by a chef and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase. You’ll be impressed by the food and the views — it’s the perfect combination.
4. Monterey, Carmel, and 17-Mile Drive Full Day Tour: San Francisco, California
Beginning in San Francisco, you will get to drive along some of the most scenic roads in Northern California, including Highway 1 and the 17-Mile Drive. You’ll enjoy stops at breathtaking destinations like Carmel by the Sea, will spend time in Monterey, and, of course, you'll have time to check out the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course. This is one
California tour that will impress you every mile.
5. Maui Zipline Tour: Haiku, Hawaii
No matter where you go on Maui, you are going to receive incredible, mesmerizing views but nothing compares to the views from above. On this
once-in-a-lifetime tour in America , you will soar above the treetops and receive both land and ocean views on this 7-line zipline tour that is located at the historic World War II base, “Camp Maui.” But that’s not all ... you will also have the opportunity to cross a high-altitude suspension bridge and learn all about the wildlife, culture, and history of the area.
6. Grand Canyon Railway Adventure: Williams, Arizona
There are so many
different ways to experience the Grand Canyon but one of the best (and one of my personal favorites!) is on the
Grand Canyon Railway . On this train tour in America, you will capture breathtaking views in the same way that people did in the early 1900s. It's a unique way to explore and one you will not forget.
7. Yellowstone’s Old Faithful, Waterfalls, and Wildlife Day Tour: Jackson, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park, United States
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most unique parks in the country. Full of natural wonders like geysers, waterfalls, canyons, and more, it is one park with plenty to see and do. On this
full-day, guided tour in America , you will travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to see many of the gems in the park including Old Faithful, the Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone Lake, and more. Plus, this tour leaves from Jackson Hole, meaning you will also drive through Grand Teton National Park as well.
8. Miami Sunset Cocktail Cruise: Miami, Florida
The Miami skyline at sunset is an image that you will never want to forget — it’s stunning. To capture this breathtaking view, take the
Miami Sunset Cocktail Cruise . On this two-hour cruise, you will get to enjoy the Miami coastline with drinks in hand and music playing. Make note that this is not a party cruise — it’s simply a great way to disconnect, relax, and enjoy the Miami scenery.
9. Charleston Photography Tour: Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina is a beautiful port city that’s full of picturesque scenery. On this tour in America, you’ll want to bring your camera as you’ll be taken to the most beautiful and overlooked
historical sites , overlooks, vantage points, and more throughout the city and the Lowcountry. You’ll see this area in a whole new way — in a beautiful new way!
10. Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching and Mendenhall Glacier Tour: Juneau, Alaska
Alaska is full of so many breathtaking landscapes that it is hard to choose just one destination to enjoy but on this
half-day tour , you’ll get to see some of the best. You will be transported to the breathtaking 13-mile
Mendenhall Glacier and then hop on board a whale watching cruise. Not only may you spot some whales on your way, but you may also see wildlife such as bald eagles and blue herons. This is a great sightseeing tour if you only have a short time to spend in Juneau.
11. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour: New Orleans, Lousiana
There’s no doubt that Louisiana’s swamps are beautiful in their very own way. However, they aren’t a destination that you can easily explore on your own. This
tour in Louisiana allows you to explore areas of Honey Island Swamp. Here, you'll not only enjoy unique and beautiful views, but you’ll also learn more about the area and Cajun history. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as alligators and snakes on this outdoor adventure.
What are some of your favorite tours in America? Did any of the above guided tours catch your eye? Let us know in the comments! We would love to hear from you.
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