North America Bucket List: Best Experiences Across the Continent
North America is a continent of staggering contrasts. To the north, icy tundra stretches into the Arctic Circle where polar bears roam and the aurora lights up the skies. To the south, ancient pyramids rise from the jungles of Mexico and tropical islands pulse with the rhythms of Carnival. Between these extremes lies everything from red-rock deserts and towering mountain ranges to futuristic cities, jazz-filled streets, and endless coastlines.
What makes North America extraordinary is its ability to surprise. One moment you’re standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon, marvelling at a landscape carved over millions of years, and the next you’re wandering through Havana’s cobbled streets, where classic cars and salsa spill onto the pavements. It’s a place where road trips are a rite of passage, festivals are larger than life, and food tells the story of migration, resilience, and creativity.
This bucket list isn’t just about ticking off famous landmarks — though there are plenty of those here — but about diving into experiences that define the spirit of the continent. From adrenaline-filled hikes to cultural immersions and culinary adventures, these are the moments that make travelling through North America unforgettable.
Drive Route 66, USA
There’s a reason Route 66 is called the “Main Street of America.” Stretching nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, this historic highway weaves through eight states and three time zones, offering travellers a nostalgic journey through the heart of the United States. Once the lifeline for Dust Bowl migrants heading west, it later became a symbol of freedom and the open road.
Today, Route 66 is a living time capsule. Expect neon-lit diners serving milkshakes, vintage motels shaped like teepees, and bizarre roadside attractions like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas. Each small town you pass through tells its own story — some thriving, others frozen in time since the heyday of American road tripping.
Travel tip: Give yourself at least two weeks to enjoy it properly. If you’re short on time, drive a section such as Arizona’s stretch, where red-rock landscapes and ghost towns deliver that quintessential Route 66 charm.
Hike the Grand Canyon, USA
Few places humble you like the Grand Canyon. Nearly 450 kilometres long, up to 29 kilometres wide, and more than 1,800 metres deep, it’s a geological masterpiece sculpted by the Colorado River over millions of years. From the rim, it’s awe-inspiring; but step onto the trails, and you begin to understand just how vast and layered this canyon really is.
The South Rim is the most popular, offering panoramic viewpoints and accessible hikes like the Bright Angel Trail. The North Rim, higher and cooler, feels quieter and wilder. If you’ve got time (and stamina), an overnight trek to Phantom Ranch on the canyon floor offers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective — surrounded by sheer walls glowing crimson at sunset.
Fun fact: Despite drawing millions of visitors every year, fewer than 1% hike below the rim. Most simply peer over the edge, meaning the trails remain surprisingly peaceful once you descend.
Travel tip: Visit in spring or autumn when temperatures are bearable for hiking, and book permits well in advance if you plan to camp.
See the Northern Lights in Alaska or Yukon
The aurora borealis is one of Earth’s most spellbinding natural wonders, and few places rival northern North America for seeing it. In Alaska and Canada’s Yukon, vast skies free from light pollution become a stage for dancing ribbons of green, pink, and violet. The science is fascinating — charged particles from the sun colliding with Earth’s atmosphere — but nothing prepares you for the magic of watching them shimmer overhead.
Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the most reliable spots, with over 200 nights of aurora activity a year. In Yukon, Whitehorse and remote lodges provide a more off-grid experience, often paired with dog sledding or snowshoeing. Some travellers even book aurora “chasing” tours that track clear skies hour by hour.
Travel tip: Plan between late September and March for the best chance of sightings, and give yourself multiple nights — the aurora is unpredictable, but patience is usually rewarded. Dress in serious winter gear; standing outside at -20°C is part of the adventure.
Explore Chichén Itzá, Mexico
In the jungles of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula stands Chichén Itzá, a city once at the heart of the Maya civilisation. At its centre is El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), a pyramid so precisely designed that during the spring and autumn equinox, sunlight creates the illusion of a serpent descending its staircase — a celestial alignment that still draws thousands of visitors.
Beyond the pyramid, the site holds sacred cenotes, a vast ball court where games had religious significance, and intricate carvings depicting warriors and gods. Walking through Chichén Itzá is like stepping back into an era when astronomy, religion, and architecture were inseparable.
Fun fact: Chichén Itzá was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, cementing its place as one of the most important archaeological sites on the planet.
Travel tip: Arrive as soon as it opens in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds. Pair your visit with a swim in nearby cenotes for a refreshing contrast.
The Grand Canyon, USA.
Swim in the Cenotes of the Yucatán, Mexico
Beneath the lush jungles of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula lies a hidden world of crystal-clear sinkholes known as cenotes. Formed when limestone caves collapsed, these natural pools were considered sacred by the Maya, who believed they were gateways to the underworld. Today, they’re one of the most unique swimming experiences on Earth.
Cenotes come in all shapes and sizes — some are open-air lagoons fringed by vines, others are enclosed caves where shafts of sunlight pierce through the darkness to illuminate turquoise water. Popular spots like Ik Kil, near Chichén Itzá, are breathtaking but crowded, while lesser-known cenotes like X’Canche offer peaceful swims away from the tour buses.
Travel tip: Bring snorkelling gear to see the limestone formations below the surface, and go early in the morning for the most tranquil experience. Many cenotes also require a small entrance fee, usually supporting local communities.
Marvel at Niagara Falls, USA/Canada
Niagara Falls isn’t just a waterfall — it’s a spectacle of raw power. Straddling the border between the USA and Canada, it drops over 3,000 tonnes of water every second, sending plumes of mist high into the air. The thunderous roar can be heard long before you see the falls themselves.
There are several ways to experience them. The Canadian side offers the most dramatic panoramic views, while the American side lets you get closer to the action, even behind the falls via tunnels carved into the rock. A boat trip to the base is an unmissable thrill, where ponchos are a must but still won’t save you from the spray.
Fun fact: Niagara was one of the first places in the world to harness hydroelectric power, with plants supplying electricity to both Canada and the US since the 19th century.
Travel tip: Visit in winter for a completely different experience — ice formations create a frozen wonderland, and the crowds thin dramatically.
Drive the Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Winding down California’s rugged coastline, the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The road hugs cliffs that plunge into the Pacific Ocean, weaving past golden beaches, misty redwood forests, and charming seaside towns.
Highlights include Big Sur, where dramatic cliffs meet crashing waves; Monterey, famous for its marine life; and Santa Barbara, with its Spanish-style architecture and vineyards nearby. With so many pull-off points and scenic overlooks, the journey is as rewarding as the destinations.
Travel tip: Drive north to south so you’re always on the ocean side of the road for the best views. Allow at least three days to take it slow, with stops in smaller towns like Cambria or Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Spot Icebergs in Newfoundland, Canada
Every spring and early summer, colossal icebergs drift down from Greenland along the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. Some are the size of skyscrapers, breaking apart in spectacular crashes as they melt. Known as “Iceberg Alley,” this region offers one of the most accessible iceberg-viewing experiences in the world.
Towns like Twillingate have become hotspots for iceberg spotting, where you can watch from the shore or take boat tours that weave between floating giants. Kayaking alongside them offers a surreal perspective — though always at a safe distance, as chunks can collapse without warning.
Fun fact: These icebergs are thousands of years old, formed from compacted snow long before humans ever set foot in North America. Locals even harvest small pieces to use in cocktails, giving new meaning to the term “on the rocks.”
Travel tip: Late May to early June is peak season. Pair iceberg spotting with whale watching — humpbacks often arrive in the same waters at the same time.
Celebrate Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago
If Rio’s Carnival is the world’s most famous, Trinidad and Tobago’s is its Caribbean counterpart — vibrant, explosive, and full of energy. Often described as “the greatest show on Earth,” Carnival here blends African, Indian, and European influences into a kaleidoscope of colour, rhythm, and revelry.
The celebrations peak in the days before Lent, with steelpan music, elaborate costumes, and all-night street parties. “J’ouvert” is one of the highlights, where revellers take to the streets at dawn covered in paint, mud, or powder, symbolising freedom and unity.
Travel tip: Book well in advance — flights and accommodation fill up quickly. If you don’t want to join a full masquerade band with elaborate costumes, you can still enjoy the parades and music from the sidelines.
Swim with Whale Sharks in Isla Holbox, Mexico
Just off the Yucatán Peninsula lies Isla Holbox, a laid-back island where cars are replaced by golf carts and hammocks swing above the turquoise sea. Between June and September, the waters around the island become one of the world’s best places to swim alongside whale sharks — the largest fish in the ocean.
Despite their size (growing up to 12 metres long), whale sharks are gentle filter feeders, gliding gracefully through the water as they scoop up plankton. Swimming beside one is a surreal experience: you feel tiny, yet oddly calm, in the presence of such a giant.
Fun fact: Whale sharks have unique spot patterns on their backs, much like human fingerprints, which scientists use to identify individuals.
Travel tip: Choose an operator that follows responsible tourism guidelines — whale sharks should never be touched, and boats must keep a respectful distance to protect these magnificent creatures.
Dive into Jazz and Creole Culture in New Orleans, USA
Few cities in North America rival New Orleans for soul and spirit. The birthplace of jazz and a melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, the city is alive with music, food, and celebration. The French Quarter’s narrow streets echo with brass bands, while the scent of beignets and gumbo drifts through the air.
Beyond the music, New Orleans is famous for its Creole and Cajun cuisines — think jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and po’ boys — dishes that tell the story of cultural fusion. Festivals like Mardi Gras transform the city into one big parade, with colourful floats and costumed crowds filling the streets.
Travel tip: For a more authentic experience, visit outside Mardi Gras and explore neighbourhood jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street. Don’t leave without sampling a muffuletta sandwich at Central Grocery, an institution since 1906.
Hike in Banff National Park, Canada
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a wilderness playground of jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and glaciers. It’s one of the most photographed places in Canada — and for good reason. Whether you’re hiking through alpine meadows, kayaking across Lake Louise, or soaking in natural hot springs, Banff delivers adventure in every season.
Popular hikes like the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail reward you with mountain views and a historic teahouse serving fresh-baked goods. For something more challenging, the Plain of Six Glaciers hike takes you deep into the heart of the Rockies. In winter, the park transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, with world-class skiing at Lake Louise and Sunshine Village.
Fun fact: Banff was Canada’s first national park, established in 1885, and remains one of its most visited.
Travel tip: Summer is peak season, so book accommodation well in advance. For fewer crowds, visit in September or October, when autumn colours paint the mountainsides.
Surf in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
On Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido has earned legendary status among surfers. Its Zicatela Beach, nicknamed the “Mexican Pipeline,” produces some of the biggest and most powerful waves in the world, attracting elite surfers from across the globe.
But you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy Puerto Escondido. The town has more beginner-friendly beaches like Carrizalillo, where calm waters are perfect for learning the basics. Off the board, you’ll find a relaxed surf-town vibe, with beachfront cafés, vibrant nightlife, and stunning sunsets over the Pacific.
Travel tip: If you’re not surfing, visit during November when the waves calm down, or head to nearby Laguna de Manialtepec to see bioluminescent plankton glow at night — an otherworldly experience.
Witness the Geysers of Yellowstone, USA
Yellowstone, America’s first national park, is like stepping into another planet. Beneath its forests and meadows lies a supervolcano, fuelling an otherworldly landscape of steaming geysers, bubbling mud pots, and rainbow-hued hot springs.
The park’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful, erupts roughly every 90 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 40 metres into the air. But there’s far more to explore: the Grand Prismatic Spring, with its vivid bands of colour caused by heat-loving microbes, is one of the most surreal sights in nature. Add in roaming bison, grizzly bears, and wolves, and Yellowstone becomes a full sensory experience.
Fun fact: When Yellowstone was designated in 1872, it became the first national park in the world, inspiring a global movement to protect natural landscapes.
Travel tip: Summer brings crowds — and traffic jams caused by bison on the road. Visit in late spring or autumn for a quieter experience, and always stay on marked paths near thermal areas; the ground can be dangerously unstable.
Wander Through Old Havana, Cuba
Step into Old Havana and it feels like time has slowed down. Pastel-coloured colonial buildings line cobbled streets, vintage cars rumble past, and salsa music drifts from open doorways. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic heart of Cuba captures the island’s unique blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.
Stroll through Plaza Vieja, with its baroque architecture and lively cafés, or explore the Malecón, Havana’s iconic seaside promenade. The city is bursting with energy — from street performers to cigar shops and family-run paladares serving home-cooked Cuban cuisine.
Fun fact: Many of Havana’s classic cars date back to the 1950s. After the Cuban Revolution, imports were restricted, so locals kept them running through ingenuity and mechanical skill, turning them into living symbols of the city.
Travel tip: Stay in a casa particular (family-run guesthouse) for an authentic experience. Evenings are best spent in music-filled bars, where live bands turn every night into a party.
Trek Copper Canyon, Mexico
Often overshadowed by the Grand Canyon, Mexico’s Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre) is actually deeper and, in places, wider than its US counterpart. Located in the Sierra Madre Occidental, this network of six canyons offers jaw-dropping scenery — sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and remote indigenous villages.
One of the best ways to experience it is aboard the El Chepe train, which winds through tunnels and over bridges on one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. For adventurers, there are hiking and biking trails that lead to isolated communities of the Rarámuri people, known for their long-distance running endurance.
Travel tip: Allow at least four days to ride the full El Chepe route and explore side trips into the canyons. If hiking, go with a guide familiar with the terrain and local culture.
Watch the Sunrise at Tulum’s Ruins, Mexico
Perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum’s ancient ruins are among the most picturesque in Mexico. Once a walled city and a major trading port for the Maya, it’s now one of the only archaeological sites in the world set against a backdrop of turquoise waves.
Arriving at sunrise is a magical experience. The first rays of light bathe the stone temples in gold while the beaches below remain blissfully empty. Afterwards, you can cool off with a swim in the sea or explore the nearby cenotes and eco-parks.
Fun fact: Tulum was one of the last cities built by the Maya, flourishing between the 13th and 15th centuries before the arrival of the Spanish.
Travel tip: Combine a visit with Tulum town, where a growing foodie scene offers everything from street tacos to high-end jungle restaurants.
Kayak on Lake Louise, Canada
Lake Louise is the crown jewel of Banff National Park — a glacial lake so vividly turquoise it looks almost unreal. Framed by towering peaks and the Fairmont Château Lake Louise hotel, it’s one of the most photographed spots in Canada. But the best way to experience it isn’t from the shore — it’s from the water.
Renting a canoe or kayak lets you paddle across the glassy surface, where the reflections of snow-capped mountains create postcard-perfect views in every direction. In winter, the lake freezes into a natural ice-skating rink, adding another layer of magic.
Travel tip: Summer is peak season, and canoe rentals sell out quickly. Arrive early in the morning for calm waters and fewer crowds. For hikers, the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail starts right nearby and offers stunning views from above.
Go Dog Sledding in Alaska, USA
Few adventures feel as raw and exhilarating as gliding across snowy landscapes pulled by a team of huskies. Dog sledding has deep roots in Alaska, where it was once a lifeline for transport and communication in remote communities. Today, it’s both a thrilling activity and a cultural connection to the state’s frontier heritage.
Tours range from short excursions outside Anchorage to multi-day expeditions across frozen wilderness. Some even let you meet Iditarod mushers and their dogs, offering a glimpse into the world of one of the toughest endurance races on the planet.
Fun fact: In 1925, dog sled teams relayed life-saving medicine across 674 miles to Nome during a diphtheria outbreak — a feat still commemorated in Alaska today.
Travel tip: Dress in layers and bring serious winter gear. If you’re short on time, summer “dryland” dog sledding is also possible, with sleds swapped for wheeled carts.
See the Icons of New York City, USA
New York City is a destination that never sits still. From the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State Building, its skyline is a global icon — but the real magic lies in exploring the neighbourhoods that give the city its energy. Wander through the leafy streets of Greenwich Village, feel the buzz of Times Square, or cross the Brooklyn Bridge for sweeping views back at Manhattan.
The Statue of Liberty remains a symbol of hope and freedom, best appreciated from a ferry ride to Liberty Island. Central Park offers a green oasis in the middle of the metropolis, while Broadway delivers world-class theatre. Whatever your interests — food, art, shopping, music — New York has it all.
Travel tip: Skip the queues at the Empire State by heading to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center — the view includes the Empire State itself framed against the skyline.
Discover Ancient Pueblos in New Mexico, USA
Long before Spanish settlers arrived, the Southwest was home to thriving Indigenous cultures. At sites like Taos Pueblo and Bandelier National Monument, you can see ancient adobe structures that have been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years. Built of earth, straw, and water, these dwellings blend seamlessly with the desert landscape.
Visiting today offers a chance to connect with history that predates modern borders and cities. Guided tours often include insights into Native traditions, crafts, and the resilience of these communities.
Fun fact: Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.
Travel tip: Respect that these are living communities — some areas are private and photography may be restricted. Support local artisans by purchasing crafts directly from them.
Explore the Caves of Belize
Belize may be small, but its underground world is immense. The country is famous for its cave systems, many of which were sacred to the Maya. The most extraordinary is Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave), where you wade, swim, and climb deep underground to find ancient pottery and even skeletal remains, left as offerings centuries ago.
Beyond ATM, there are countless caves filled with stalactites, underground rivers, and hidden chambers. Exploring them is a true adventure, combining natural beauty with cultural history.
Travel tip: Book with a licensed guide — ATM Cave in particular requires one, and they’ll share stories that bring the Maya world to life. Wear sturdy water shoes and be ready to get wet.
Dance to the Rhythm of Havana Nights, Cuba
While Old Havana charms by day, the city truly comes alive after dark. From smoky jazz bars to salsa clubs that spill out into the streets, Havana nights are all about music and movement. Venues like La Zorra y el Cuervo host world-class jazz, while Casa de la Música is the place to test your salsa steps alongside locals.
Travel tip: Don’t be shy about dancing — Cubans welcome beginners, and you’ll quickly find yourself swept into the rhythm. Pair the evening with a mojito or daiquiri for the full Havana experience.
End the Day on a Caribbean Beach
No North America bucket list would be complete without the Caribbean’s postcard-perfect beaches. Whether it’s Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos, Seven Mile Beach in Jamaica, or Playa Flamenco in Puerto Rico, the combination of soft white sand and turquoise waters is the ultimate way to slow down after big adventures.
Some islands are lively and full of music; others remain untouched, where the only sound is the lapping of waves. It’s this diversity that makes the Caribbean so magical — whether you’re snorkelling over coral reefs, tasting jerk chicken on the sand, or simply watching the sunset with your toes in the water.
Travel tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring and early autumn) to avoid the busiest crowds and get better deals on accommodation.
“From the Arctic tundra of Alaska to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean, North America offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that feel almost limitless. It’s a continent where history is written in stone temples and pueblos, where the natural world shapes epic road trips and adventures, and where every city has a soundtrack and a flavour of its own.
A bucket list here isn’t just about checking off destinations — it’s about embracing the variety, energy, and sheer wonder of travel across the continent. The question is: which of these unforgettable experiences will you chase first?”
