There’s something about colorful destinations that is good for the soul: they seem to come to life, crackling with personality. Here’s our tour of some of the most colorful places in the USA — destinations that are sure to bring a little rainbow whimsy to your travels.
Grand Prismatic Springs, Yellowstone
This hot spring is one of the biggest in the world, spanning the width of a football field and stretching ten stories in depth, and is undoubtedly one of its most colorful. Rainbow rings encircle the piping hot pool thanks to the presence of heat-happy microbes that thrive in its waters. The center of the spring can reach 189°F (87°C), creating an environment where nothing can grow, resulting in the clear blue; as the water moves further towards the shore, it cools, creating rings of yellow, orange, and red depending on the temperature.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm, Oregon
Tulip farms are a perennial favorite for color enthusiasts; their happy blooms are big and bright, creating waves of color when planted together. Head to Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm in Woodburn, Oregon, one of the largest tulip farms in the Northwest, to witness acres of land bursting with color during the annual tulip festival, which lasts from the end of March to the beginning of May. The farm is home to dozens of varieties, and if you find some you really love, you can even take some bulbs home.
Art Deco District of South Beach, Miami
The Art Deco historic district of South Beach, Miami, is a pastel paradise: buildings in soft hues of yellow, purple, pink, and blue give this vibrant part of Florida a glamorous, vintage feel. The district features over 900 historic buildings that will have you feeling like you’re on a beach vacation with Gatsby himself. For architecture enthusiasts, immersion in the beauty of this era is invaluable.
Havasupai Falls, Arizona
Located within the Grand Canyon region, Havasupai’s bright turquoise waterfalls and pools are the essence of Western US vacation dreams. This watery wonderland is on Havasupai Reservation and belongs to the Havasupai people, known as “people of the blue-green water.” Permits issued by the tribe are required to visit, which can be competitive; however, the rewarding experience of wandering beneath these shimmering cascades makes the effort worthwhile.
French Quarter, New Orleans
New Orleans’ French Quarter is famous for being one of the best places to eat, drink, and party in the country. Visitors making the pilgrimage to this amazing city should take the time to wander the quieter streets lined with multicolored historic homes featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, bright floral window boxes, and stately shutters.
Sunflower Fields in the Dakotas
Fun fact: North Dakota and South Dakota are the largest growers of sunflowers in the USA, which means that sprawling sunflower fields transform the Dakota landscape into a vibrant shining gold during summertime. Highway 83 in North Dakota cuts through sunflower-growing regions, while I-90 in South Dakota allows for picturesque views of vast yellow fields, leading to breathtaking sights like Badlands National Park.
Autumn Colors in the Blue Ridge Mountains
The southeastern USA offers stunning autumn foliage in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Wind your way through southern Appalachia in late October, and the hills will radiate with color; hikers can climb to one of the area’s many knobs and balds for spectacular 360-degree views of this breathtaking seasonal display.
The Street Art of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is home to over 3,500 murals of all sizes, thanks to community efforts over the last thirty years. Take your time exploring this vibrant outdoor art gallery; there’s plenty to see in a city that vibrantly showcases creativity and expression.
The Bluebonnets of Texas Hill Country
The bluebonnet is Texas’ official state flower, and if you visit Texas Hill Country in March and April, you’ll understand why. During spring, these fields come alive with delicate blue and white blooms, creating a stunning landscape that merits exploration.
