The 15 Epic Best Places I Have Ever Visited

So, it’s my birthday today. In other words, it’s all about me (only slightly kidding). And, to celebrate the 15 years I’ve graced the Earth, I decided to make a list of the best places I have EVER visited.

Honestly, this has nothing to do with my birthday. But whatever, since I’m in charge, I can do whatever I want.

It’s pretty nice. 🙂

Well, time for me to stop acting like a brat, and let’s get into the 15 best places I’ve visited (ranked)!

(By the way, prepare for this list to get REALLY specific).

Best Places #15: High Peaks Loop, Pinnacles National Park

The High Peaks Loop was SO MUCH FUN. With both epic views and some scrambling, it was a can’t miss adventure.

But, the best part of it all was most certainly seeing California condors out in the wild. What an incredible experience.

Learn More: High Peaks Loop Hiking Guide

Best Place #14: Kemah Boardwalk, Texas

I have been to this fun Texas amusement park three times and have never gotten tired of riding the Rocking Rocket (Gramps will know what I mean).

This park is on the edge of Galveston Bay and has a bunch of exciting rides. Plus, I have lots of fun memories there with family.

Best Places #13: Potato Harbor Hike, Channel Islands National Park

Hiking to Potato Harbor was actually one of the first hikes that I considered fun (after all, this was pre Peripatetic Girl). But I loved the easy trail and spectacular coastal views.

If you’re ever on Santa Cruz Island, you need to do this hike for sure.

Best Places #12: Kennywood, Pennsylvania

If you haven’t guessed it by now, I love a good amusement park. Contrary to popular belief, my travels are not solely composed of scrambling up huge red rock monoliths. 🙂

I had a great time spending the day at Kennywood riding roller coasters with my aunts and uncles and even riding a world record.

Best Place #11: Grand Canyon South Rim

Because our Grand Canyon trip was essentially what kicked off our road trippin’ journey, I couldn’t not put the South Rim on the list.

In addition to that, we also did lots of hiking, biking, and shuttle riding on the South Rim that made the trip truly memorable.

Best Places #10: Balcony House, Mesa Verde National Park

If you’ve been following my blog from the VERY beginning (which a lot of you have), you might remember my blog posts about Mesa Verde. Of all the amazing things there, Balcony House was my favorite.

On this tour, we got to climb a 32-foot ladder, crawl through a tunnel, and learn about Ancestral Pueblo history.

Best Places #9: Devil’s Bridge, Arizona

Even though we went to Sedona quite recently, it has already become one of the best destinations I have ever been to. With world-class hiking, scenery, and dining, whatever kind of traveler you are, you’re bound to like Sedona.

The most popular place in Sedona is Devil’s Bridge, which receives thousands of hikers every year. And because I don’t like crowds, Mom and I hit the trail early and had this cool landmark almost all to ourselves.

Learn more: How to hike Devil’s Bridge

Best Places #8: Morgantown, West Virginia

Make sure you’re sitting down, because you might collapse in shock: I went to afternoon tea and enjoyed it.

Yes, even though I am not a dainty, tea-drinking person in the least, I had a great time with my sister, aunt, and uncle, and don’t get me started on the food: it was DELICIOUS. Although it was definitely different than what I usually do, it remains one of the most fun travel experiences ever!

Best Place #7: Bedroom

I don’t know if this even counts, because I quite literally live in my bedroom. But, it is so cozy and comfy and where all my ideas come to life.

I’ve lived in this bedroom my whole life and have built so many great memories here over the years.

You might want to see a picture of my bedroom BUT I am not going to put one up because it’s a mess.

Best Places #6: Sand Hollow State Park, Utah

We actually visited Sand Hollow on a whim, since we had an extra day on our road trip. Let me tell you, I sure wasn’t expecting this amazing place.

Bright orange sand surrounds this beautiful blue lake not far from St. George. Swimming was a great way to spend a few spare hours. Plus, my feet looked like my fingers usually do after eating Doritos! 🙂

Learn more: State Parks Near St. George

Best Place #5: Grandma C’s house

I have great memories of making dinner with my siblings and cousins at Grandma’s house. Although it seems pretty simple, everyone was just having a great time, and I still think of it whenever I think of my favorite travel memories.

Best Place #4: Chapel of the Holy Cross, Arizona

Although I’ve seen a lot of churches, Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona is by far the most impressive. Busy but intimate, small but grand, this church perched on the cliffside is incredible.

The connection you feel to God here is absolutely unreal, and I highly recommend checking it out if you’re in Sedona.

Best Place #3: Big Sur, California

Even though we were in Big Sur for 24 hours (for the 11-miler), that trip blew me away. From chilling in the hotel to eating burgers to walking/running along Highway 1 (yes, I actually ran for once!), this trip was a different one but so so so fun.

Best Place #2: Cathedral Rock, Arizona

As I scrambled up this huge monolith hurriedly trying to beat the sunset, I couldn’t help taking a break and turning around.

And holy cow. That view was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen, hands down. The whole scramble was just phenomenal. I can’t even really describe it in words or pictures, but believe me, it is amazing in person.

Best Place #1: Coastal Trail, Santa Rosa Island

If you hadn’t seen this coming, you’re probably new here. But seriously, Santa Rosa Island has been the most amazing place I had ever visited.

Because of the calm serenity, wonderful hiking, and stunning scenery, Santa Rosa Island is pulling me back. I didn’t want to go, but Mom and I will be heading back in July for a epic multi-day camping trip!

Conclusion

What can I say other than that traveling and starting this blog has been the best thing ever? Thank you so much to my parents, who have endured 8-hour car rides, gone on rock scrambles, and scraped ice off the windshield with a hotel key at 6am in 25 degree weather.

And a huge thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you. I mean it when I say you are what keeps me going every single day.

There’s no doubt about it, these past 15 years have been great.

And here’s to another amazing 15. ❤