Top US Vacation Destinations for the 2011 Summer Season | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Top vacation destinations in the United States are subject to what type experience is sought after. From coast to coast there are limitless possibilities of places to go and see this summer without having to spend one's lifesavings by going abroad. It is that time of year again where beaches and amusement parks are filled with people, both locals and tourists, taking time for themselves and their families to bond, relax, and just have a fun break from the other three seasons and the normal hum-drum of school and/or work. Summer is a time to recharge, replenish our mental health and take time with loved ones during the weekends, holidays, and time taken off during the beautiful weather. Major cities always top the charts simply because they are "major cities" and most people automatically think of them when they want to go somewhere radically different without giving it much thought.

    Unquestionably the majority of vacation seekers will have plans to visit places such as New York City, Las Vegas, Florida, Washington, D.C., California, and any other major tourist attractions. The downfall to these destinations is that everyone is well aware of what they have to offer; making them far more congested and dangerous than the hidden gems scattered across the country that are enjoyed by those who do a little more digging than those who take the obvious. Also, when traveling to these popular destinations, it is harder to visit without having a lot of money saved up before hand. Large cities, especially those that receive large amounts of tourists, tend to have higher costs associated with almost everything, as well as the overwhelming urge to splurge on food and souvenirs.

    These destinations are sought after for their many attractions despite their high crime rates. New York City, New York is definitely THE destination to be for high-end shopping and seeing all of the typical tourist attractions it has to offer, such as the Statue of Liberty, Madison Square Garden, Broadway, and the massive sky scrapers. Las Vegas, Nevada is a wonder in itself with all of the casinos, hotels, exhibits, magicians and theatrics. Orlando, Florida is the home of Disney World, Universal Studios, and Sea World; as well as theaters, major shopping malls, and many other attractions. Washington, D.C. offers the chance to experience the nation's history at the Smithsonian and seeing all of the monuments, as well as giving a sense of patriotism. Everyone flocks to California in the summer for the beaches, sunshine, and the nightlife as well as Disney Land, Hollywood Boulevard, Magic Mountain, and the tremendous amount of attractions throughout the state. When visiting such vacation hotspots, it's important to be cautious of other people and to be aware of dangerous situations.

    The top vacation destinations, other than the blatantly obvious, in the U.S for the 2011 summer season are, in descending order, in Virginia, Wisconsin, Ohio, Alaska, Michigan, and South Dakota. Some of these seem quite odd to be a venerated location for a summer getaway, but they are for good reason. Williamsburg, Virginia (link to article) has many incentives for people all over to come and visit for both entertainment and cultural experiences. Busch Gardens and Water Country USA bring in a multitude of visitors year round, without getting the claustrophobic feeling of them being "packed to the gills" with people. Also, Historic Williamsburg is a lovely area with plenty to see, enjoy, and learn. Oshkosh, Wisconsin hosts several festivals that attract travelers from across the country along with their renowned opera house and convention center. Cleveland, Ohio is a cultural enrichment destination; home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, House of Blues, Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Anchorage, Alaska has some beautiful weather in the summer and a multitude of things for its visitors; over 20 miles of trails, Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, Oscar Anderson House, Delaney Park Strip, Alaska Native Heritage Center, Alaska Zoo, Ship Creek, Chugash State Park, and of course Skiing. Michigan's Upper Peninsula has a variety of attractions such as their georgous lighthouses, museums and historic sites, lakes, waterfalls, fishing, mining, golf courses, scenic drives, and casinos. Rapid City, South Dakota is the home of one of our nation's landmarks, Mount Rushmore. Rapid City has something that will appeal to everyone, from the arts and history, to shopping, sports, and more.