52 Epic American Adventures: Travel, Culture, and Outdoor Escapes Across the USA
Discover bold journeys, culinary discoveries, and wildlife encounters with insights from Nicholas DeRenzo, AFAR’s adventure storyteller.
Meet Nicholas DeRenzo: Curator of American Adventure
Nicholas DeRenzo is a seasoned travel journalist and Brooklyn-based contributing editor at AFAR. Renowned for his expertise in travel, culture, food and drink, and wildlife—especially birdwatching—he crafts compelling stories that inspire wanderlust and curiosity. With 17 years in the travel media industry, DeRenzo’s work has featured in renowned publications such as Hemispheres, New York Times, New York Magazine, BBC, and Time.
His explorations take readers from urban adventures to wild rural escapes, blending practical insights with cultural context. Whether reporting on America’s buzziest food trends or wildest hiking trails, DeRenzo emphasizes immersive experiences and local flavor.
America 250: Celebrating a Milestone Through Travel
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, AFAR—guided by DeRenzo and team—presents a campaign to inspire travelers to explore the nation afresh. This milestone has become a catalyst for highlighting the very best the country offers: bold journeys, culinary discoveries, immersive cultural experiences, and wild outdoor escapes.
“America 250” includes a vast collection of stories, guides, and podcasts, available across AFAR’s platforms. The cornerstone is the “Epic Adventures in Every State” initiative, spotlighting 52 remarkable experiences (one per state, plus Puerto Rico and DC).
52 Epic American Adventures: An Overview
This ambitious roundup redefines adventure, recognizing that life-changing travel is as likely to occur during urban explorations or culinary forays as it is on remote trails or waterways. DeRenzo’s curated list balances adrenaline-pumping activities with serene escapes and rich cultural immersions.
- Urban and wilderness expeditions: From mountain biking in city centers to traversing remote national parks.
- Culinary journeys: Experiences led by celebrated chefs, foraging guides, and local specialists.
- Wildlife and conservation: Conservation-minded tours and unique chances to view North America’s iconic species.
- Historic and cultural immersion: Adventures connecting travelers with the nation’s roots and artistic pulse.
Sample Adventures: Across the American Landscape
Each state delivers a unique flavor of adventure. Below are featured examples that illustrate the diversity and ingenuity of DeRenzo’s selections.
Arkansas: Paddle Through Untamed Rivers
The Buffalo National River—the country’s first national river—provides unparalleled kayaking and canoeing opportunities. Glide through the Ozarks, passing wildflower islands and towering bluffs, and keep watch for bald eagles or otters. Multi-day journeys present travelers with both challenge and tranquility. Outfitters like Buffalo Outdoor Center offer guided experiences, while 37 North Expeditions supplies everything from equipment to meal planning for novitiates. At night, campers revel under an International Dark Sky Park, witnessing natural nightscapes rarely seen elsewhere.
Idaho: Soaking in Historic Mountain Hot Springs
Home to more than 120 soakable hot springs, Idaho is an oasis for those seeking the therapeutic and social pleasures of geothermal waters. Ideal for both relaxation and adventure, hot springs range from easy stops near bustling towns to deep-forest pools accessible only by snowmobile in winter.
- Burgdorf Hot Springs: Reachable by car in summer, snowmobile-access only in winter. Rustic log cabins offer a pioneer retreat without modern amenities.
- Gold Fork and Kirkham Hot Springs: Feature mineral-rich waters and options for various temperatures, hydrotherapy jets, and waterfall features.
Stay at local inns, such as the distinctive Shore Lodge in McCall, for lakeside comfort and easy access to these remote wonders.
Ohio: Urban Climbing on the Columbus Via Ferrata
The country’s first urban via ferrata—a protected climbing path—has arrived in Columbus’ Quarry Trails Metro Park, only minutes from the state’s capital. Previously, these horizontal climbing routes predominated in rugged mountain regions; now, city dwellers and visitors alike experience the adrenaline rush of scaling rock faces within an urban landscape. This innovative adventure broadens the definition of accessible thrills, blending physical challenge with urban convenience.
Hawai‘i: Foraging and Feasting in the Rainforest
For epicureans and adventurers, O‘ahu offers a unique blend of education and dining through wild food experiences. Chef Yuda Abitbol, of Indigenous Mexican heritage, leads travelers through:
- Mushroom walks: Identifying and sustainably harvesting edible fungi, with a focus on controlling invasive species.
- Rainforest foraging classes: Discover wild mountain apples, edible ferns, and roots; learn indigenous uses of native plants.
- Survival workshops: Gather, prepare, and cook your own meal over a hand-built fire, fostering a connection to the land.
Those seeking luxury can pair this adventure with a stay at Four Seasons O‘ahu at Ko Olina, sampling sea-to-table cuisine at Mina’s Fish House.
Multi-State Themes: Connecting Coast to Coast
Beyond individual highlights, the list spotlights nationwide trends and emerging interests:
- Birdwatching and wildlife safaris: Growing popularity of birding expeditions or tracking packs of wolves in iconic parks like Yellowstone.
- Cultural food tours: Focus on regional flavors and hands-on participation in culinary traditions.
- Newcomer experiences: Adrenaline activities such as pack-rafting, canyoneering, and mountain biking in unconventional settings.
Spotlight Table: Adventure Types and Where to Find Them
| Category | Example Locations | Signature Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Adventure | Columbus, OH | Via Ferrata climbing course integrated into a city park |
| Wilderness Escapes | Yellowstone, WY; Buffalo River, AR | Wolf tracking; multi-day river paddling trips |
| Culinary Journeys | O‘ahu, HI; Providence, RI | Rainforest foraging with chefs; New dining concepts |
| Hot Springs & Relaxation | Idaho, CO, NM | Natural geothermal baths in remote settings |
| Wildlife & Conservation | Florida, Alaska | Manatee snorkeling; bear watching in national parks |
Travel Trends and Editorial Approach
The list, curated by Nicholas DeRenzo and colleagues, reflects the changing face of American adventure. Visitors crave blendings of adrenaline and accessibility, luxury and authenticity, tradition and innovation. AFAR’s editorial approach places experiences in broader cultural and ecological contexts, encouraging mindful travel and appreciation of local communities.
All stories are distributed across AFAR’s digital magazine, seasonal print editions, podcasts, and social media, building a multimedia travel community.
More Than Just Adventure: Cultural and Social Connections
DeRenzo’s reporting style emphasizes:
- Local perspectives: Experiences are often co-created with guides, chefs, artists, or conservationists native to the region.
- Wildlife ethics: Responsible observation and minimal impact, supporting conservation education.
- Storytelling: Blends anecdote and advice, making each recommendation compelling and actionable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is Nicholas DeRenzo?
A: Nicholas DeRenzo is an experienced travel journalist and editor, known for his coverage of American travel, food, drink, wildlife, and conservation, with prominent roles at AFAR and leading travel publications.
Q: What makes the AFAR “Epic Adventures” list unique?
A: It highlights a wide diversity of adventures—from accessible urban activities to multi-day wilderness journeys—in every U.S. state, curated by an expert team.
Q: Can beginners participate in these adventures?
A: Yes. Many highlighted experiences, such as guided river floats or urban climbing parks, cater specifically to beginners or offer expert-led options.
Q: How can I find the latest stories by Nicholas DeRenzo?
A: His stories and updates appear regularly on AFAR.com, in AFAR’s print issues, social media channels, and in features for leading publications.
Q: Are these adventures suited for families?
A: Many adventures are family-friendly, with options for all ages, activity levels, and interests—from wildlife watching to culinary excursions.
Get Inspired: Where to Start Your Next Epic American Adventure
Whether you’re craving a short-term escape, a cultural deep dive, or a full-throttle outdoor challenge, Nicholas DeRenzo’s AFAR roundup offers inspiration, guidance, and practical tips. Begin by identifying your state’s featured trip—or use the list as a checklist for a lifetime of adventures.
- Plan ahead—many experiences require advance booking.
- Travel responsibly, respecting local cultures, wildlife, and ecological guidelines.
- Share your stories and discoveries on social media to inspire others.
For the full list of 52 epic adventures across all 50 states (plus Puerto Rico and DC), visit AFAR and follow Nicholas DeRenzo on Instagram for behind-the-scenes insights and traveler tips.
