Travelers from California are grabbing attention on TikTok for revealing some must-visit spots in the United States.
Stephen Jiroch and his wife, Giselle, are content creators who have been traveling the globe for years.
“We’ve visited 35 of the U.S. states together, and it’s been incredible in the past four years,” he said.
With 1 million followers on their social media account titled The Lovers Passport, the pair shared their top suggestions for places to visit in a lifetime.
While the majority of the spots on Jiroch’s must-visit list are national parks, he said it speaks to the beauty of the United States and said traveling abroad isn’t always necessary.
Here are eight places in America to consider adding to your bucket list.
Jiroch’s Journey: State of Wonder in the U.S.
The Colossal Giants of Sequoia National Park
“The first one that comes to mind is Sequoia National Park,” Jiroch expressed, eyes filled with wonder. “This place blew our minds with the biggest trees in the world standing tall like ancient guardians of the forest.”
Each giant sequoia, a testament to time, invites introspection, reminding visitors of their own fleeting existence against the backdrop of nature’s endurance.
The Ice Sculpturer: Glacier Bay National Park
With enthusiasm, Jiroch described Glacier Bay National Park, saying, “Here, you witness glaciers calving into the ocean, feeling the earth shift as these ancient giants let go.”
The chilly waters, alive with movement, remind us of nature’s power and vulnerability. A cruise through these icy channels offers an intimate glimpse into a landscape sculpted by millennia, resonating with a silent history too profound to voice.
A Living Tapestry: The Great Smoky Mountains
“We just visited the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee,” Jiroch recalled, a hint of awe in his voice. “It’s so unique; coming from the West Coast, we never imagined the East Coast could have such majestic mountains.”
With each layer of mist wrapping around those limestone ridges, it feels like stepping into a painting, a beautiful play of light and shadows that evoke emotions of peace and nostalgia.
Where Mountains Meet the Sea: Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
On an island where adventure intertwines with tranquility, Jiroch highlights the “insane cliffs” of Kauai. “Those cliffs rise dramatically above the brilliant blue waters,” he said, awe palpable in every word.
The Na Pali Coast is a stunning reminder of nature’s artistry, straddling the line between danger and beauty, drawing those who yearn for exhilaration amid serenity.
Secluded Wonders of White Sands National Park
“Visiting White Sands National Park at sunrise is an experience like no other,” Jiroch enthusiastically recommended. “We secured an entry permit for the early hours, and it felt like we had the whole desert to ourselves.”
The vast expanse of gypsum dunes glowing under the dawn light invites not only visitors but also contemplation, offering a moment of stillness in a fast-paced world.
The Hidden Gem: Rocky Mountain National Park
With passion, Jiroch claimed, “Rocky Mountain National Park is underrated. Everyone’s buzzing about Boulder, but just beyond, incredible trails and lakes await.”
As the crisp mountain air fills the lungs, a feeling of exhilaration washes over hikers, balancing the thrill of exploration with moments of quiet reflection.
The Heart of Their Adventures: Yosemite
With a smile, Jiroch shared, “Yosemite is our personal favorite. It’s the first place that pops into my mind when someone asks where to visit in the U.S.”
This park, with its iconic granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls, forms not just a backdrop but a canvas for memories etched into the hearts of those who love to wander.
For those who can savor life’s exquisite moments, these destinations offer more than just a checklist; they invite exploration, connection, and a profound appreciation for the vast beauty of America. Each park embodies a story waiting to be discovered, a dream waiting to be lived.
