Domestic bucket list travel ideas and inspiration for the new year

Between severe weather disruptions and a surge in omicron cases, thousands of canceled flights have plagued eager Seattle travelers throug the holiday season.

Yet 2022 should be an optimistic year for leisure travel planning as vaccine booster shots help mitigate the coronavirus spread. Add to that an assortment of amazing travel deals from hotels and resorts, cruise lines and airlines, and the new year may finally open more doors to tangible travel.

While international travel can pose tricky timelines and uncertainty with pre-travel testing requirements and fluctuating entry guidelines, domestic trips may be a welcome alternative for many. And thankfully for bucket list travelers, there are amazing destinations to be discovered right here in the U.S.

Where will you go in 2022? Keep reading to discover three domestic bucket list travel ideas for the new year.

Cruising Alaska

Now that cruising is back in business, it’s an ideal time to schedule a scenic Alaskan cruise. That’s especially true as Holland America prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary in Alaska.

In celebration of this landmark event, kids cruise Alaska for just $75. Right now, Holland America is also offering The Ultimate Upgrade Event where guests may obtain a free stateroom upgrade. Add to this the Have It All savings event, Holland America cruisers can receive shore excursions, a drink package, specialty dining and Wi-Fi with reduced deposits through Jan. 20. Select bookings may also receive up to $200 onboard spending money per stateroom.

Holland America’s Alaska cruise fares start at $799. Roundtrip Seattle itineraries include port visits to Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Ketchikan in Alaska, with a bonus day in Victoria, British Columbia.

Scenic cruising elements also include sailing into Glacier Bay for a full day, where guests my see glacial ice formations up close, in addition to wildlife like eagles and whales. In Juneau, adventurous travelers may hike glaciers while city explorers may tour Alaska’s capital.

In Ketchikan, guests may opt to explore the Tongass forest or visit the Totem Heritage Center. Yet Ketchikan’s salmon and fresh seafood is also a must-try downtown or while exploring historic Creek Street. Then in Sitka, guests will find an amazing blend of native and Russian history.

Holland America requires guests to be fully vaccinated and provide a negative test result two days before sailing. Review Holland America’s travel guidelines prior to booking.

Discover Puerto Rico

Has a trip to Puerto Rico somehow escaped your travel plans? Now’s the time to plan a visit to this American-Caribbean destination — that does not require a passport for U.S. travelers.

Puerto Rico is a bucket list destination thanks to its unique blend of history, culture, cuisine and stunning landscapes. Travelers here can explore one of the world’s largest dry forests or experience the beauty of a tropical rainforest. Adventurous families will want to navigate underground caves, revel in gorgeous waterfall hikes or enjoy kayaking the iridescent Bioluminescent Bay.

For city explorers, discover Spanish influences and culinary flavors intermingled with European architecture. To get a good overview of the local culture, pay a visit to Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico for a broad brushstroke of the region, then stroll the grounds of Museo de las Américas in Old San Juan. This museum has four permanent exhibitions documenting Puerto Rico’s cultural heritage, with additional rotating exhibits always offering new surprises, too.

Of course, another excellent way to discover Puerto Rico is through culinary experiences. The Pina Colada was invented here, so be sure to add this famous beverage to your food and drink tour. Then take in a variety of local dishes like slow-roasted pork, crispy plantains and legendary tostones. You’ll also want to sample local specialty pasteles, which are similar to tamales yet traditionally made with green banana masa and stuffed with savory pork.

Want a family-friendly hotel with easy proximity to Old San Juan and the beaches? Book a stay at Caribe Hilton in San Juan, offering a secluded beach for enjoying waterfront activities yet just a few minutes journey into Old Town.

Review Puerto Rico’s latest travel guidelines in preparation for your island vacation.

The Gulf Coast

While the Atlantic and the Pacific get rightful credit for stunning beaches, there is an idyllic stretch of palm tree paradise along the Lower 48 that should be experienced at least once in your lifetime. The Gulf Coast stretches from Florida’s panhandle through Padre Island in Texas, and no matter your travel preferences you’ll find a seaside town for sun-kissed family getaways.

For bucket list travelers, the Alabama Gulf Coast is truly a beach lover's destination thanks to 32 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and incredible outdoor adventure spread between the towns of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Alabama’s Gulf State Park for its 28 miles of trails to explore among 6,500 acres of protected land. There are miles of cycling possibilities among its backcountry trail, a butterfly garden, geocaching and hiking opportunities and kayaking at Lake Shelby.

Visitors can camp or glamp at Gulf State Park, with tent and cabin options aplenty, or enjoy refined Hilton accommodations at The Lodge at Gulf State Park. This eco-resort focuses on sustainability while offering immediate beach access and mouthwatering local dining onsite.

It pays to book ahead, too, as The Lodge at Gulf State Park currently has a family savings offer with a fourth night free added to stays of three or more nights.

Along this stretch of coastline, travelers will find other outdoor recreation fun with birding trails, hiking through Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge or padding the Back Bay Blueway. For thrill seekers there’s jet skiing, diving, parasailing and snorkeling to seek out stingrays, crabs, octopi and saltwater catfish. During the summer, the water averages 82 degrees, so a simple swim session with the family is also a welcome treat.

Dining along the Alabama coastline invites travelers to savor catfish, snapper and Gulf shrimp. Then there’s Cajun empanadas, fish tacos and savory barbeque. Add locally roasted coffee to your menu, then sip craft beer from Big Beach Brewing Company. Then follow a fun-filled sunny beach day with a stunning sunset along the coast.

Plan your vacation and review the latest traveler guidelines at GulfShores.com.