Top 7 Outdoor Adventures in the US (2025)

Posted on July 08, 2025

Scenic view of a cable car suspended in the air over a forested mountain landscape. The cable car, marked Palisades Tahoe, glides above rocky terrain with patches of snow and evergreen trees. The distant mountains create a serene backdrop under a clear blue sky, highlighting the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Have you ever dreamed of an entire day of outdoor recreation, just pure fun and adventure while meeting new people? If you love hanging out outdoors and appreciating all the great things around you, you've found the perfect list for you. The US is an absolute cradle of the most magnificent outdoor attractions in the world. We're not even exaggerating, because all of the attractions on this list offer fun and unique experiences that indoor activities can't match.

Pack your bags now and secure your tickets, because we are going to take a look at the top outdoor adventures and attractions that you can visit in 2025. Are you ready? Let's start!

What are outdoor activities?

Outdoor activities are all about having fun outside and getting some fresh air. Whether it’s hitting the trails for a hike in a pretty area, biking through amazing scenery, camping under the stars, having fun at theme parks, or kayaking on calm waters, there’s so much to enjoy. Besides helping you stay active, these adventures let you really connect with nature, getting a break from the everyday grind. Whether you’re going out by yourself or with friends and family, spending time outdoors can really lift your mood and make you feel great.

The top outdoor adventure spots in the US in 2025.

West Coast

1. Disneyland - 70th Anniversary Celebrations

Disneyland Resort | Anaheim, CA 92802, United States

A beautiful castle adorned with ornate turrets and vibrant banners celebrating a milestone. The stone facade features intricate architectural details. Colorful flags with decorative designs hang on either side of the entrance. The gate opens into a magical courtyard, hinting at a carousel in the background. The scene embodies a sense of enchantment and festivity, inviting guests into a world of wonder.

Are you up for some outdoor adventure sprinkled with magic and fun? Mark your calendars for 2025 because Disneyland has officially kicked off its 70th Anniversary festivities! This celebration is set to be the best outdoor bash for Disney fans. Expect to see beloved rides, limited-edition merchandise, and specially curated food items to celebrate the park's history. There will be new shows, stunning fireworks, cheerful parades, and engaging events to make sure everyone has a blast. And guess what? The fun continues all the way to summer 2026, so there’s plenty of excitement in store for visitors!

Love Halloween? Spooky season is made even more fun and enchanting at Disneyland Resort with Oogie Boogie Bash. Secure your Disneyland tickets now and get ready for the most magical outdoor adventure this year!

2. Palisades Tahoe

1960 Olympic Vly Rd, Olympic Valley, CA 96146, United States

Two skiers on a snowy mountain overlook a scenic view of snow-covered peaks and a distant lake. One skier in a blue jacket and orange gloves stands with poles, while the other in a light green jacket and yellow pants points a ski pole outward. Both wear helmets and goggles, enjoying the bright, clear day. The vast mountain landscape and clear blue sky create a stunning backdrop, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

Palisades Tahoe is an incredible destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of exhilarating activities. Visitors can enjoy spectacular skiing and snowboarding in the winter, while the summer months invite thrilling hikes, mountain biking, and rock climbing. With breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a place where adventure seekers can truly thrive.

This unique outdoor escapade also allows you to take a break, enjoy scenic views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Don't forget to hop into the Aerial Tram Ride, experience High Camp, and try the Emigrant Chairlift for more breathtaking vistas. Palisades Tahoe stands out with its magnificent site location, offering a variety of remarkable experiences to everyone.

3. Newport Landing Whale Watching

309 Palm St A, Newport Beach, CA 92661, United States

A large whale surfaces in the ocean, releasing a spout of water into the air. Nearby, a boat filled with people watches the scene. The vast sea stretches to the horizon, creating a sense of adventure and wonder at this marine spectacle.

If hanging out with sea animals is your thing, this is the perfect outdoor adventure for you. Experience the thrill of Newport Landing Whale Watching, where outdoor adventure comes alive through the excitement of whale spotting. Guests can take part in guided boat excursions, soak in panoramic coastal views, and participate in insightful talks about ocean wildlife. This remarkable opportunity allows for unforgettable close encounters with fascinating marine life, making it a genuinely meaningful adventure.

For this terrific outdoor treat, you can spot different species of whales like the blue whale, gray whale, finback whale, killer whale (orca), sperm whale, humpback whale, and minke whale. To make your adventure even more whimsical, different species of dolphins can be spotted as well.

East Coast

4. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612, United States

A vibrant roller coaster with teal tracks loops against a backdrop of a colorful sunset and lush green trees. The track curves dynamically, with red supporting beams visible. Palm trees and other foliage surround the area, adding to the lively and adventurous atmosphere. The sunset glows warmly in the sky, casting a golden hue over the scene.

Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure through its thrilling rides, stunning landscapes, and rich blend of wildlife. Visitors can experience heart-pounding roller coasters, beautifully designed gardens, and exciting animal encounters, all set against a backdrop of vibrant nature.

This park seamlessly combines fun and education, making it a memorable destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. We highly recommend the Wild Oasis, its newest play zone that combines thrills with natural elements as if you're out wandering in a lush forest. Animal lovers should also not miss the Habitat Hideaway, where you can spot over 200 wildlife species, including capybaras, giant anteaters, squirrel monkeys, and lots of colorful tropical birds.

5. Go City

Multiple locations

Aerial view of a city skyline at sunset featuring numerous skyscrapers under a dramatic sky with scattered clouds and a setting sun creating a warm glow. The metropolis is bustling with tall buildings packed closely together, providing a sense of urban density and vibrancy. The sky transitions from golden hues near the horizon to cooler tones higher up. The overall scene conveys the energy and dynamism of city life.

Want to discover great communities, popular landmarks, and historic properties nearby? If you dig the bustling city life but still feel the need to discover more, Go City is an excellent choice. Go City tours offer an exceptional outdoor adventure that combines exploration with excitement. Participants can simply purchase a pass and unlock access to numerous attractions, making it a seamless way to experience a city's highlights and hidden gems.

Beyond the iconic sites, Go City also provides a plethora of activities that cater to diverse interests, from breathtaking nature excursions to thrilling outdoor sports, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable. Whether you're zip-lining through lush landscapes or enjoying a scenic bike ride, Go City transforms sightseeing into an unforgettable outdoor journey.

Midwest

6. Valleyfair

1 Valley Fair Dr, Shakopee, MN 55379, USA

A group of people enjoying a wooden roller coaster ride. They are seated in rows, leaning to one side as the coaster takes a curve. Everyone looks thrilled and joyful, with hands holding the safety bar. The sky is cloudy, and trees are visible in the background, adding to the sense of speed and excitement. The image captures the fun and exhilaration of the amusement park experience.

In need of fun, electrifying Midwest thrills? Valleyfair is a blast for outdoor fun! It’s got a great mix of exciting rides, stuff for the whole family, and awesome live shows, all in a big outdoor amusement park. You can check out eight roller coasters there, like the famous Wild Thing, plus there's a water park called Soak City where you can ride some thrilling slides or just chill. And it’s not just about the rides—Valleyfair also has live entertainment, special events, and a really fun vibe that everyone can enjoy.

Great news for food and fun lovers, the Juicy Lucy Festival will be taking place at Valleyfair starting July 12! Get ready to jam and jive to the best music in town and sink your teeth into the juiciest burgers in Minnesota.Grab your Valleyfair tickets now and don’t miss this amazing event.

7. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220, United States

An elephant enjoys a refreshing dip in a rocky enclosure surrounded by lush greenery. Its trunk is playfully raised, and water ripples around it. The setting is serene, with natural rock formations and trees providing a peaceful backdrop.

Back to a wildly wonderful adventure, this place is ideal for those who love animals and are interested in knowing more about different species. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a fantastic spot for outdoor fun because it’s not just about the animals; it’s a whole experience! You can stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy the fresh air while checking out all kinds of wildlife. Plus, the zoo has some really cool activities that you won’t want to miss.

For starters, you can get up close and personal with animals during special feedings and encounters. There’s nothing like feeding a giraffe or seeing a cute penguin waddle right in front of you! You could also take part in one of their exciting behind-the-scenes tours to learn more about how they care for the animals. And let’s not forget the botanical garden part, where you can wander through lovely themed gardens and see stunning flowers. Cincinnati goes all out and goes the extra mile to give guests extraordinary experiences they won't forget.

Make your trips extra special with these tips:

Take packing seriously.

Some travelers tend to forget the importance of a good packing list during trips. As much as you loathe stuffing your bags with your belongings, it is a must, especially when you're exploring new places. While most of these attractions have shops where you can purchase essentials, isn't it cooler to save money while enjoying?

This is especially true if you're going for overnight adventures. Some campsites adopt traditional trip styles, which might cause you a little to a huge inconvenience. Make sure to pack your essentials well for a stress-free escape.

Sort things out ahead of time.

We always advocate early reservations as much as we advocate affordable fun. When we suggest you sort things out ahead of time, it includes everything from your park tickets and dining reservations to accommodations. By doing so, you can have a smooth preparation for your trip, and you can even snag the best deals on tickets.

Take time to know your adventure.

As you get ready for your next adventure, you can spend some of your time getting to know the attractions you're about to visit. It doesn't matter whether it's a natural attraction or a manmade one. Having a certain level of knowledge of the ins and outs of a particular place is always an advantage. For example, you can refer to a guide to navigate Disneyland to save time and focus on your favorite rides and attractions. You may also download the official Disney app for convenient access to the resort's features.

Camp, hike, and explore the beauty of the outside world.

Wherever you are, you can always enjoy the beauty of the outside world and all the surprises that it offers. This 2025, it's time for you to try new things, discover new hobbies, and let your interests blossom into unforgettable experiences.

Get those tickets, pack your bags, create that itinerary, and treat yourself to incredible adventures outside of your comfort zone. It's never too late to see the world in a wider perspective, FunExplorers. Enjoy!