Looking for vacation inspiration? Men’s Journal recently ranked the nation’s best vacation destinations, including everything from beach towns to gastronomic treasures to adventure-packed gems. From coast to coast and border to border, 50 stunning destinations lined up with tips on when to go, where to stay, what to do and what to eat while you’re there .
In first place was the Colorado mountain town of Ouray, which magazine editors said “feels like stepping into a live-action REI commercial.” But California, thanks to its mild temperatures, small-town feel, and proximity to surfer-friendly beaches, rolling vineyards, and winery tasting rooms, ranks third in SLO’s coastal town, San Francisco. -He has received some sensational praise, most notably from Luis Obispo.
San Francisco was ranked 14th, with the Golden Gate Bridge, the California Academy of Sciences, Alcatraz Island, and other tourist attractions where tourists flock to take pictures and admire the nickname “San Francisco,” a nickname for Southern California that makes locals shudder. (Hmm, do Los Angeles residents, number 11 by the way, roll their eyes when we say “SoCal”?)
Also on the Southern California list is San Diego, which ranks 21st with 70 miles of soft sand beaches and lush museum-packed Balboa Park.
At www.mensjournal.com/travel/ you can find all 50 destinations, including restaurants and tourist tips. Meanwhile, the top 10 are:
Top 10 Best Vacations in America
1 Ouray, Colorado
2 Chattanooga, Tennessee
3 San Luis Obispo, California
4 New Orleans, Louisiana
5 Bend, Oregon
6 Boise, Idaho
7 Chicago, Illinois
8 Sedona, Arizona
9 Washington DC
10 Portland, Maine