Retired, traveling and loving it. Where to next?

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If you’re retired and planning to travel, lucky you! With a world full of options, where will you go? If you need some inspiration, check out this list of popular travel destinations retirees love.

Alaska

You can be as active or relaxed as you want to be in Alaska. From hikes on land or excursions on sea to cruise lines or trains — there are a variety of ways to view the beautiful scenery.

Alaska must-dos:

View the Northern Lights
Whale watching
“Flight-seeing” over the mountain ranges

Charleston, South Carolina

If you like a laidback vacation with lots of historical points of interest, Charleston is one of the top destinations to offer both. It’s a city rich with American Revolution and Civil War history. And if you’re into spooky things, it’s been rumored Charleston has plenty of ghosts, too. Check out one of their many tours!

Charleston must-dos:

Fort Sumter
Historic Charleston City Market
Rainbow Row

Sedona, Arizona

The multi-hued red rock formations in Sedona are quite unlike other landscapes. Not to mention the mild climate makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors. The hiking trails are aplenty, so you won’t have trouble finding one to match your experience level.

Sedona must-dos:

Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village
Jeep tours
Chapel of the Holy Cross

Santa Fe, New Mexico

This city has an attractive landscape that has beckoned artists, writers and creative enthusiasts alike for many years. Visitors love the culture, the weather and the arts in Santa Fe. Indulge your creative side for a stay in New Mexico’s beloved capital.

Santa Fe must-dos:

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Santa Fe Plaza
Canyon Road

Williamsburg, Virginia

History, history and more history. If you find yourself fascinated with the Colonial era, you could spend several days here soaking it all in. Don’t miss the plethora of museums!

Williamsburg must-dos:

Colonial Williamsburg: Revolutionary City
Governor’s Palace
Dine-in Colonial Taverns

Key West, Florida

Water lovers … if you haven’t been to Key West, put this place at the top of your list. The Florida Keys offer some of the best spots for sailing and water sports, and Key West is known as the crown jewel. But don’t worry, there’s plenty for land lovers, too!

Key West must-dos:

Mallory Square at sunset
Dry Tortugas National Park
Sunset sailing cruise

Kauai, Hawaii

Tropical U.S. vacations don’t get much better than the stunning island of Kauai. After all, Kauai is the backdrop in over 60 films. Whether you love the beach, hiking, golfing, water activities or eating fun foods, there’s something for just about every type of vacationer here.

Kauai must-dos:

Limanhuli Gardens & Preserve
Waimea Canyon Lookout
Hanalei Bay

Morro Bay, California

You don’t hear about Morro Bay as much as the other California coastal cities. And that’s exactly why you’ll want to go here. Morro Bay has miles of unspoiled beaches to explore and is ideal for off-the-beaten-path nature lovers.

Morro Bay must-dos:

Morro Rock
Morro Bay Estuary
Museum of Natural History

San Antonio, Texas

Three words: history, culture and food. San Antonio proudly showcases Mexican-American traditions in all three. With much to learn, sights to see and delicious food to eat, San Antonio is a popular spot for many.

San Antonio must-dos:

River Walk
The Alamo
Natural Bridge Caverns

South Dakota

You’ve probably seen the pictures of Mount Rushmore plenty of times. But nothing does it justice like seeing it for yourself. If you enjoy a road trip-style vacation, this Midwest classic is one everyone should cross off their bucket list.

South Dakota must-dos:

Mount Rushmore
Badlands National Park
The town of Deadwood

Branson, Missouri

With over 50 theaters, it’s no wonder Branson is called the “Live Entertainment Capital of the World.” Music, comedy, acrobats, variety acts, illusionists and so much more. You will not be bored in this popular Ozark Mountain town.

Branson must-dos: