Best Thing to Do in Every U.S. State

Ghost tours, zip-lining and whitewater rafting all make the cut.

Best Attractions in Every U.S. State

You may be surprised to learn what people like to do when they have a chance to visit another state. Exploring the Great Outdoors is wildly popular, of course, but travelers also love going on food and ghost tours, skydiving indoors, exploring historic mansions and so much more.

TripAdvisor, the king of travel reviews, has named the most popular tour or attraction in every state, based on traveler ratings, and the results are at turns expected and surprisingly off-the-beaten-path.

Want to know where you should go on your next adventure? Think you know the most beloved thing to do in your state? Read on.

Alabama: Gulf Coast Dolphin Cruise

White-sand beaches bordering the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico make up Alabama's gorgeous Gulf Coast. Here, cruises departing from Orange Beach take passengers out into warm waters, where dolphins are abundant and love to play in the boat's wake.

Sample TripAdvisor review: "Our family had so much fun with the dolphins!! So much laughing and giggling with each other as we spotted dolphins and as they followed the boat jumping along the sides. Highly recommend!" — Jacki Gray

Alaska: Mendenhall Glacier Tour

Offering the best of both worlds, this five-hour tour combines whale-watching with time on land to hike and explore the spectacular Mendenhall Glacier. Travelers will find the tours operating out of Juneau.

Sample review: "It was utterly amazing. We cannot recommend this tour enough. An experience we will treasure forever." — CazzyK

Arizona: Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight

If you visit the Grand Canyon by foot, you'll get a taste of its size, but to truly understand its vastness you need to view it from above. Taking a 45-minute helicopter tour gives you you a birds-eye perspective of not only the canyon itself, but Kaibab National Forest and the Colorado River.

Sample review: "This was the most amazing wonderful experience, the helicopter was fantastic, as was our pilot Robert. The Canyon was truly awe-inspiring. I never imagined the scale of the Canyon. An experience I will never forget." — Kerry W

Arkansas: Dinner Cruise Aboard Belle of Hot Springs

The aptly named town of Hot Springs invites visitors to soak in Earth's natural hot tub. Even better than soaking in the waters, though, is taking them in from a dinner cruise.

A two-hour tour on Lake Hamilton aboard the double-decker Belle of Hot Springs gives visitors a dinner of catfish and barbecue, followed by a bit of dancing.

Sample review: "We did the afternoon sightseeing tour. The scenery was beautiful and we learned a lot about Hot Springs, Lake Hamilton and who owned some of the most beautiful homes. Definitely worth it." —Sharon D

California: Wine Country Tour in Napa and Sonoma

Is there anyone out there who hasn't dreamed of a trip to California's wine country?

Indeed, it's hard to pass up a visit to the numerous vineyards of Napa and Sonoma Valleys, where reds, whites, roses and bubbly are served in a gorgeous sun-soaked landscape. Best yet? Book a tour, and you can let someone else drive. Make this a full-day tour from San Francisco, just an hour or so away.

Sample review: "This tour was fantastic for my first time visiting Napa and Sonoma! It was educational and enjoyable. The wine 'tastings' were endless! I thought we’d only have a small sample of each bottle at each winery, but we could ask for more and more! The scenery is amazing. Definitely worth the cost! Don’t miss out!" — Luke Y

Colorado: Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park

In a single day, you can travel from Denver to the heights of Rocky Mountain National Park and then into the charming nearby town of Boulder. It's a wonderful way to take in everything that makes Colorado awesome — urban attractions, natural beauty, offbeat charm — in a short period of time.

Sample review: "We were able to enjoy the beautiful vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park, wildlife sightings, a nice lunch and even a drink from a mountain spring." — Psloper

Connecticut: Zip Line at Foxwoods Casino

Foxwoods Resort Casino may not be kid-friendly, but its 1-mile-long zip line most definitely is. Starting at 350 feet in height at the Fox Tower and landing at Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center, this is an ideal way to take in views of the state.

It seems like a surprising choice, until you try it yourself.

Sample review: "It was a great experience and the service was great. I would certainly recommend. The view was amazing." — nancyhO2703YT

Delaware: Tandem Kayak in Rehoboth Bay

Anyone can sit back and relax on the beach, but actually traversing the waters of Rehoboth's Back Bay is equally if not more enjoyable. Many travelers hop into a tandem kayak for a 2-hour bay tour with herons, osprey and eagles flying overhead.

Sample review: "Beautiful sunset and tranquil beauty all around. George was our guide and he did a great job of engaging with everyone." — redgirlroanoke

Florida: Sightseeing via Miami Speedboat

Miami is hot and flashy and full of fun, especially when you experience it via a 45-minute speedboat adventure. Hold on tight as you are whisked away on a sleek catamaran — you're going to get wet on this wild ride!

Sample review: "This is a must! The speedboat is so much fun and the scenery—especially the Miami skyline from out on the water—is amazing." — steogc352018

Georgia: Savannah Historic Trolley Tour

One of the best ways to uncover Savannah's rich history is aboard the hop-on hop-off trolley that ventures through its storied streets. Drivers are tour guides, providing insight on the homes, cemeteries and squares you'll pass — you get to decide which places you want to spend more time in.

Sample review: "This is our go-to for tours in Savannah. As advertised they have the actors that hop on the bus at various stops that weave a lovely story about what you happen to be stopped in front of. Each actor is very good at the knowledge they have learned about their chosen stop/destination. Even better are the trolley drivers. Sometimes you'll have a driver and a guide that works together, other times you'll have a driver that tells the history and stories of Savannah as he maneuvers through Savannah. It's an easy way to get around the historic district and beyond within Savannah." — Wanderlust_Scribe

Hawaii: Pearl Harbour Tour

Although you may visit Hawaii for its palm tree-lined beaches, breathtaking rainforests and amazing aquamarine waters, an attraction not to be missed on the isle of Oahu is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. A tour gives you time to pause and reflect as you learn about the events that took place here, causing the death of 2,388 Americans.

Sample review: "Wonderful tribute to the men and women lost during the Pearl Harbor attacks. Seeing the Arizona in its final resting place was very moving." — loujack48

Idaho: Cruising the Snake River

Winding like a snake through Idaho's stunning scenery is the Snake River, which travelers can cruise en route to Hells Canyon. Showcasing the land and water's history and ecosystem, the Snake River Adventures cruise also provides a bit of whitewater fun for an all-in-one experience.

Sample review: "The jet boats are unique and you will enjoy seeing wildlife and birds as well as petroglyphs and the amazing canyon. Guides are well informed and they stop the boat often for special views or sights." — Sherry B

Illinois: Architecture River Tour in Chicago

One of the most interesting ways to uncover Chicago is via a boat ride meandering along the Chicago River. These tours highlight the unique architecture — more than 50 buildings and skyscrapers — found in the city.

Sample review: "Very unique experience. Tons of history entangled with old and new architecture." — Houstonjshouston

Indiana: Kayak Tour on the Blue River

Nothing beats a day on the water, and so it goes in Indiana. Kayaking and canoeing along the Blue River in the state's Cave Country provides a shaded, relaxing adventure you probably didn't realize you could have in the heartland.

Sample review: "This canoe trip was great, we did the all day trip and took our time. Not too crowded and was a very relaxing afternoon." — Colleen E

Iowa: Field of Dreams Tour

"Field of Dreams," a sweet film about the power of believing in miracles, baseball, love and life, is a beloved classic for a reason. Today, in Dyersville, Iowa, you can tour the site where it was filmed.

They built it, and you should come.

Sample review: "As an avid baseball fan, I had to make this pilgrimage and I'm so happy I did...so much worth the visit! Thank you for the obvious love and care that has been taken to preserve this movie site." — AJP

Kansas: Indoor Skydiving

Don't worry: In the city of Overland Park, simulated skydiving is performed close to the ground, making it more safe than the real deal. Still, it provides plenty of thrills.

Are there other amazing things to do in Kansas as well? Of course. But this is the exhilarating experience TripAdvisor travelers give the highest marks.

Sample review: "Great family activity that will show hidden fears that people have and will unite the family with a unique shared activity!" — dgensure

Kentucky: Thoroughbred Horse Farm Tour

In the home of the world-famous Kentucky Derby, visit the homes of the horses and families that compete in the annual thoroughbred race. This tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating world of competitive sports racing.

Sample review: "Our tour guide had so much personal knowledge of the area, the farms, their owners & horses which made this tour so interesting & entertaining. We visited Keeland in the morning & watched a tract full of horses working out before we headed out to see some of the most beautiful country side & thoroughbred farms. A treat indeed." — Mary B

Louisiana: Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour in New Orleans

Part of the allure of New Orleans is its dark history of voodoo, vampires and, of course, ghosts. Taking a walking tour around the city with guides who know the city's secret past is creepy, informative and a ton of fun.

Sample review: "Really enjoyed the tour and our guide’s versed background in the history of the city. Very entertaining and would definitely recommend." — Liviu F

Maine: Vintage Fire Truck Tour in Portland

Yes, Maine is home to a beautiful stretch of coastline and national parkland. But believe it or not, on TripAdvisor, it's a tour of Portland on a vintage fire truck that travelers most love. Hop on and hop off to visit the city's lighthouses, harbors and historic places.

Sample review: "Unusual and entertaining way of seeing the sights around Portland. Guys doing the tour were good, and it was worth doing." — John H

Maryland: Sagamore Spirit Distillery Tour

There may be lots of spirits in Baltimore, but many like to visit the kind you can drink. The Sagamore Spirit Distillery, located on Baltimore's waterfront, is a whiskey distillery that provides highly rated tours and tastings. Bottoms up!

Sample review: "It was a fun tour and our guide was great. Samples were just enough. Gift shop was nice too. Lots of information and goodies for everyone." — I6778MAamyg

Massachusetts: Hop-on Hop-off Trolly Tour in Boston

One of the oldest cities in the United States provides, but of course, history around every turn. How do you experience it all? Via Boston's popular hop-on hop-off trolley tour. This journey shows you all the places on the city's historic timeline with the help of a top-notch guide.

Sample review: "A fun and unique take on the city. They [the guides] are engaging and knowledgeable, and if there was a question they couldn’t answer, they made sure to look it up and let you know before you got off the trolley. They are truly ambassadors to a wonderful city and we look forward to our next visit." — Robyn

Michigan: Rise, Fall and Renewal Tour in Detroit

Detroit has been in the papers for years thanks to its rise, its fall and, now, its return from the brink. This tour shows visitors what made Detroit great, while looking forward toward its exciting future.

Sample review: "The City of Detroit is coming back in a big way! It is clean, quiet, pleasant, and we felt very comfortable and safe. People were friendly and courteous and the City just felt natural." — Bill Tellier

Minnesota: Northeast Minneapolis Food Tour

Skip Minneapolis' giant mall and explore the actual city, on foot, instead. The Northeast Minneapolis Food Tour gives travelers an authentic look at the city's diverse culinary scene, with visits to numerous restaurants and markets serving cuisine from across the globe.

Sample review: "I have been on many food tours and the Northeast Tour is on the top of my list! Great history and lots of food to experience!" — Darlene K

Mississippi: Hop-on Hop-off Trolly Tour in Natchez

Another hop-on hop-off tour goes deep into the Deep South and the antebellum past of Natchez. Located on the Mississippi River, the city's Native American and French influences are still evident everywhere you look.

Sample review: "If you only have one hour to visit Natchez—this is how to spend it. This double-decker bus will take you to 10 highlights in a city chock-a-block full of antebellum beauty." — ChamplainGirl

Missouri: Branson Lake Cruise

Many who descend upon Branson visit Silver Dollar City, but according to TripAdvisor, travelers most enjoy cruising around the city's Lake Taneycomo. Book a day or night journey; either way, the sightseeing can't be beat.

Sample review: "Beautiful cruise. The captain was very friendly and knowledgeable of the area and pointed out the eagle's nest and different sites along the river bank. We stayed on the top deck the entire time and enjoyed the view." — Bertie F

Montana: Whitewater Rafting at Glacier National Park

Want to experience Montana's famed great outdoors? There's no better way to do so than via a whitewater-rafting journey in spectacular Glacier National Park. Half- and full-day adventures offer meandering rides and plenty of thrills.

Sample review: "Did a half-day trip. Elise was our guide. She was crazy amazing. So knowledgeable of River and Montana history in the area, really added to our day. She navigated the Rapids cool as a cucumber! What a great, great day!" — Karen and Werner

Nebraska: Great Platte River Road Archway Monument Visit

What is there to do in Nebraska, you ask? Well, to start, visit the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument in Kearney, like many reviewers on TripAdvisor have. The archway is a tribute to the pioneers who crossed into the unexplored territories of America's western plains and mountains.

You can easily kill a few hours exploring its historical exhibits and strolling along its beautiful hiking/biking trail.

Sample review: "I knew the mass migration to the west and the failed attempts of many families. This is a nice positive approach. It focused on search for freedom, prosperity and happiness. I enjoyed very much." — Yumiko B

Nevada: Grand Canyon West River and Hoover Dam Tour

Those who head to Vegas are practically required to squeeze in a visit to the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon, the latter of which is just across the border in Arizona. You're so close; why not?! This bus tour brings travelers to both iconic sights.

Sample review: "What a great day trip for traveling to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon with a photo stop at the Hoover Dam. The Grand Canyon is truly amazing and is a must see if visiting Las Vegas." — Gary P

New Hampshire: White Mountains Tour

New Hampshire's White Mountains should most definitely be visited. Here, you can ski in the winter, canoe in the summer and take in the majestic beauty of the national forest any time of year. Visitors particularly enjoy scaling the steep, eight-mile road up Mount Washington on a guided van tour.

Sample review: "This was something. The fall scenery was spectacular. BUT the ride up was really amazing." — Carole S

New Jersey: Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise

Off the tip of the Jersey Shore, cruises depart from Cape May to the deep Atlantic. At sea, dolphins and whales play in their natural habitat — and you get to watch. (Way cooler than just chilling on the sand.)

Sample review: "We had an absolute blast. We saw a whale! How awesome it was ... came to the surface several times ... rolled over on his back and beat the water with his fins ... an experience of a life time!" — BriandB7661

New Mexico: Hot Air Balloon Sunrise Flight

Home to the International Balloon Fiesta, featuring hundreds of balloons that ascend into the New Mexico sky every October, Albuquerque takes hot-air ballooning seriously. But you don't need the Fiesta to experience this yourself: Enjoy a sunrise flight and watch the colors of the land change with the rise of the sun.

Sample review: "Quite an excellent and thoroughly enjoyable experience with a team of passionate and competent pilots. A marvelous experience that I recommend heartily." — maman823

New York: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

America's Statue of Liberty is something everyone should see (at least!) once in their lifetime. And visiting Ellis Island, where millions of people immigrated to the nation, is a crucial part of understanding the country's history. See both on one of the most popular attraction tours in New York.

Sample review: "Excellent, very interesting, learned a lot of new information about both areas, guide very good too. Would definitely recommend it." — Kathleen H

North Carolina: Comedy Tour in Charlotte

Enjoy a hop-on hop-off bus in Charlotte for a comedy-filled ride. While most bus tours like to add a bit of whimsy, the Charlotte Comedy City Tour practically guarantees laughs as guides showcase the history and architecture of various neighborhoods.

Sample review: "The funniest and most informative 90 minutes that I’ve spent in a long time! I highly recommend this tour!" — Dawson Hancock

North Dakota: Dakota Zoo Visit

The 90-acre North Dakota Zoo in Bismarck is home to more than 600 animals and makes for an excellent stop, especially for families. TripAdvisor reviewers don't single out a specific tour here, instead preferring a self-guided visit to see the animals and learn about conservation efforts.

Sample review: "The Dakota Zoo has a great variety of animals and I love how many walking paths there are around the zoo." — laurenknd

Ohio: Nati in a Nutshell Food Tour

Get to know Cincinnati (Nati) on this cultural tour that explores the Ohio city by streetcar. You'll learn about insider favorites, sample local foods and gain admission into some of Cincinnati's biggest attractions.

Sample review: "I am so happy I decided to book this tour! Gave me the feeling if the city! Our tour guide Casi was the best! So knowledgeable and enthusiastic! I loved her and the way she presented the tour! Would recommend it to everyone!" — Yelena R

Oklahoma: Spooks, Spirits and Scoundrels Ghost Tour

Didn't know Oklahoma City has an eerie history of deep, dark secrets, unsolved murders and spirits who have yet to cross over? Then this walking tour is perfect for you, as it's dedicated to filling you in on all of the gory details.

Sample review: "The tour guide is passionate about OK City. This was fun and informative. It was a great way to orient myself to the city, and to make plans about the sites I wanted to visit during the rest of my stay." karendX7287KJ

Oregon: Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls and Multnomah Falls Tour

Leave Portland behind for a half- or full-day trip outside of the city to visit Oregon's outstanding Columbia River Gorge. You'll see a few of the nation's most awe-inspiring waterfalls, including the state's tallest, Multmouth Falls.

Sample review: "Lovely trip, amazing views! Steve is a great guide and knows a lot about the area. Multnomah fall is impressive, Latourell is gorgeous, very colorful. Highly recommend this tour!" Narcisa V

Pennsylvania: Founding Fathers Tour

Just as Boston boasts of its place in America's history, so too does Philadelphia. With the Founding Fathers Tour, you can explore the first capital of the United States and its many historic monuments and landmarks. (Move over, Boston!)

Sample review: "Wonderful tour! Guide was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. Would recommend this tour to get a good overall view of historical sites." — Nikki D

Rhode Island: Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour

Newport is renowned for its historic mansions. These were the homes of the nation's wealthiest families, including the Vanderbilts, and you can step back into the tony Gilded Age with this mansion tour. Ride Newport's trolley to see the mansions of Bellevue Avenue and catch the sailing paradise of Narragansett Bay.

Sample review: "We had a beautiful day in Newport. The tour was very informative and interesting. The mansions were unbelievable and amazing." — Linda

South Carolina: Old South Carriage Historic Tour

Charleston's historic mansions date back even farther than Newport's. You'll find them, and learn about their Old Southern roots, on this carriage tour of the port city.

Sample review: "Loved this. Would recommend the experience to all. Great information and truly enjoyed the stories of Charleston's past." — Connie P

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Tour

Mount Rushmore is one of the most iconic monuments in the United States, and the reason most people travel to South Dakota. You don't need to make the drive yourself. This tour takes passengers by bus to not only the monument, but Custer State Park and the Black Hills, with interesting facts and tidbits provided by a guide.

Sample review: "Phenomenal—just breathtaking. You have to travel the Iron Mountain road as well to look through each of the tunnels back toward Mt. Rushmore too!" — diannj1960

Tennessee: Graceland Tour

Visiting Elvis' home, Graceland, in Memphis is one of those kitschy Bucket List attractions many of us secretly want to see. According to TripAdvisor, it's the thing to do in the state along the Mississippi. As the travel-review site purports, a tour is even higher on the to-do list, ensuring a visit is as jam-packed with interesting tidbits about the King as possible.

Sample review: "What an amazing place. The history of Elvis and all the things he did and continues to do for Memphis is just amazing! Loved it!" — Bongo B

Texas: Best of Austin Tour

When a city likes to keep things "weird," it's best to explore it with locals in a small group setting. The Best of Austin tour highlights the city's popular attractions, as well as those the locals don't want you to know about.

Sample review: "Great! Really knowledge about the area and was very entertaining. I appreciated the stop of the Capitol and the highlights of the women who shaped Austin. Learning about why Austin is weird as an art Mecca made my heart happy!" — Qnlissa

Utah: Monument Valley Guided Tour

Utah's splendid valley, filled with nature's monuments, is one of the most scenic settings you'll uncover in the country, let alone the state. In order to visit the most remote areas of Monument Valley, which has been featured in blockbuster movies, you'll need a guide. Tours can range from half- to full-day and believe us, you'll want the longer tour!

Sample review: "This tour opened my eyes to Navajo culture. I have wanted to come to Monument Valley for a long time. I have loved westerns since I was a kid. After spending 3 hours with Duffy our guide, I left with respect for the Navajo and there Holy land. This tour was instructional and personal." — Mtnt123

Vermont: Burlington Brewery Tour

Vermont's ski slopes and hiking trails have nothing on the breweries of Burlington, according to TripAdvisor. You can sample the brews that have been debuting as part of Vermont's hipster craft-beer scene by visiting various taverns and brewpubs in the northern city.

Sample review: "I loved my Burlington Brew tour. We had an amazing tour guide Soren who was so knowledgeable on beer, incredibly friendly and accommodating. The tour is well worth the cost and i hope to do another the next time we go back to Burlington. Thanks for having us!" — Erin L

Virginia: Victory Rover Naval Cruise Tour

Virginia is steeped in America's military history, particularly along the coast, where colonists arrived and naval bases defend the nation. Embarking on a Victory Rover cruise allows you to visit the naval fleet of Norfolk, including the Battleship Wisconsin.

Sample review: "The opportunity to see the carriers as well as other US Navy ships was incredible. The history of the harbor and commerce was very interesting. I look forward to taking this trip again as the featured sites float in and out. " — Carolyn W

Washington: Seattle Underground History Tour

Sure, Seattle has a ton of tours to offer visitors, but just how many go beneath the streets to unravel the city's mysterious underground history? TripAdvisor travelers consider a guided underground trek the thing to do in town. There is an entire city beneath the city!

Sample review: "We took a trip to Seattle to visit a friend and were amazed to find this little-known excursion, full of interesting history about early Seattle. I would recommend it to anyone who thinks they know everything about travel to Seattle." — ALandini

West Virginia: New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting Tour

West Virginia is an outdoor lover's paradise, home to mountains for summertime hiking and camping and wintertime skiing. Cutting through the mountains in a scenic gorge is the New River, which offers numerous opportunities for visitors to grab an oar and row. Hold on, though! There are rapids on this here river.

Sample review: "Great experience!! Beautiful place, fun ride, and fun people." — craig a

Wisconsin: Sightseeing City Tour in Milwaukee

Not too far north of Chicago in the neighboring state of Wisconsin is a charming city that is often overlooked. Sightseeing tours aim to bring to light the museums, monuments, landmarks and quirks that land Milwaukee on lists of the best places to live.

Sample review: "We felt that we got to see so much of the city, from the downtown, out to the lighthouse and by all of the huge, beautiful homes, to the Black Cat Alley and the lakefront. So much to see and it was all packed into just a few hours!" — Carrie D

Wyoming: Wildlife Safari Tour

There are more animals in Wyoming than people, and experiencing the state's national and state parks can get you pretty darn close to the ample wildlife, especially when there's a guide who can help you spot them. Half- and full-day tours from Jackson Hole get you deep into nature — be sure to have a camera to capture some great shots!

Sample review: "What an afternoon! Fantastic safari, lots of bison, a few moose with lots more to see! Lee our guide was fantastic, he was so knowledgable about not only the wildlife but the history of the whole area, completely fascinating!" — 47janine66