Dream Travel Destinations: US Edition

Hi readers! I hope you had a lovely weekend. I've been itching to take a trip to the beach this summer. Let's be real- I am always wanting to head to the beach! But traditionally, summer is the perfect time to get away. While I have a decent number of vacation days left for 2015, I'm not really in a place at work to take a large chunk of vacation this summer. So I thought I'd plan out some dream vacations in an attempt to satisfy my travel bug for a little while!

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1. Alaska

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This destination has been on my list probably since I watched the movie Balto for the first time. Growing up in Georgia, the idea of snow everywhere was completely foreign and magical to me. Although it's a fairly touristy destination, I love the idea of exploring nature and seeing once in a lifetime sights! I imagine taking a cruise (I'm nervous about planning a trip like that all on my own) and being able to spend plenty of time taking in the sights at each destination. Also- who doesn't want to see the Northern Lights?! It truly seems like a fairytale trip.

2. Seattle

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Seattle is a city that has held my interest for quite some time now.  It's on the totally opposite corner of the country and seems unlike anything I've ever seen before. A few things that would definitely be on my to-do list: visit Pike's Place market, take a walk along the waterfront or maybe a ferry ride, stop by the Space Needle, enjoy a cup of coffee at the original Starbucks, and go on a hike in Mt Rainier Park.

3. Chicago

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 I'm not sure when this jumped onto my list, but I've heard excellent things about Chicago! It seems to be full of culture and yummy food- which are right up my alley as far as trips go! I'd love to visit the Art Institute and see the famous pieces. If possible, I'd love to take a bike tour or maybe plan a self-guided bike tour through the city. So many places (DC included!) have excellent bike-share programs that make this an easy way to explore a new city. Obviously, I'd have to snap a photo with the famous Cloud Gate sculpture!

4. Hawaii

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 I've yet to make it out to Hawaii, so naturally this tropical paradise is on my list! I absolutely want to spend some time laying on the beach here, but I'd love to dive into all of the nature-based activities offered out there! Kayaking through sea caves, visiting hot springs, seeing volcanoes, exploring glass beach, viewing the water falls, hiking in the forests, and so much much more is absolutely calling my name! I'd have to spend a substantial amount of time here to knock it off my list (and to justify the cost of the flight! YIKES!).

5. Maine

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 Maine is another destination that's been on my list for quite some time now. I had a friend growing up who would go to Maine every summer and come back with the best stories. I absolutely know that I need to eat lobsters and blueberries while I'm there, but I'd love to see as many lighthouses as possible while there. The coastline is supposed to be absolutely beautiful so it'd be a great time to work on my photography skills. The towns dotted throughout the state seem adorable, so this would be a great romantic get-away to go cuddle up in some B&Bs in between the exploration!

What places in the US are on your list? Have you been to my top 5 destinations? Did I miss any good activities/attractions?