When one thinks America and its culture, it is difficult to single something out. However, if one had to choose, it would likely be its cowboys and Wild West. In recent times, thanks to increased media exposure, the ‘cowboy core’ lifestyle has come to the forefront, and for this guide, we look at five parts of the USA where you can experience it.
One of 2024’s defining cultural trends is ‘cowboy core’, and this due in no small part to TV series such as Yellowstone and country music lassoing up the UK charts. With 23% of UK travellers look to take ‘cowboy core’ inspired holidays in 2025¹, leading tour operators such as American Holidays are experiencing an uplift in interest for western inspired destinations.
Fortunately, the United States has a seemingly endless number of places where you can immerse yourself in authentic American Western culture. Below, with the assistance of the travel experts at American Holidays, we have narrowed it down to five.
Fort Worth, Texas
They say everything is bigger in Texas, and this rings true whether it’s the vast landscapes of Big Bend National Park, the iconic Route 66, or indulging in a hearty plate of Texas BBQ ribs. A holiday to ‘The Lone Star State’ offers the ultimate adventure for those eager to embrace their inner cowboy.
Fort Worth is the ultimate cowboy pilgrimage, whether learning about the heart of Western culture at the Texas Cowboy Hall Of Fame or letting loose and line dancing at Billy Bob’s—the largest honky tonk in the world. Unleash your inner explorer and take a multi-centre trip around the state of Texas, ending in the metropolitan city of Dallas.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, is a dream destination for cowboy core fans, where authentic Western charm meets breathtaking natural beauty. From hiking in the Rocky Mountains, to hearing stories of years gone by from the locals, visitors can really experience an authentic Western welcome.
The town’s Western boutiques feature everything from handcrafted boots to cowboy hats. Surrounded by stunning mountains and wide-open spaces, Steamboat Springs captures the essence of the West with a stylish, adventurous twist.
Nashville, Tennessee
For fans of cowboy cultural moments, Tennessee offers the perfect mix of rugged landscapes, a strong tapestry of history, and country music charm. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with its scenic trails and frontier spirit, is just the beginning.
In Nashville, visitors can strut down Broadway in their cowboy boots, soak in live tunes at honky-tonks, and live and breathe country music. From line-dancing at the Wildhorse Saloon to exploring the Country Music Hall of Fame, Tennessee delivers adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories—along with world-famous barbecue and Jack Daniel’s whiskey.
Missoula, Montana
Live the cowboy lifestyle in Montana, where vast plains, towering mountains, and endless skies create the perfect backdrop for a true Western adventure. By day, hike the rugged trails and discover pristine lakes in Glacier National Park, surrounded by diverse wildlife. By night, stargaze beneath some of the clearest, most awe-inspiring skies in the world.
Missoula is the perfect start for cowboy core adventures. Surrounded by stunning wilderness in the Bitterroot Valley, it offers activities like horseback riding, hiking, and stargazing under vast Montana skies. While the city has a laid-back, artsy vibe, it remains rooted in its frontier heritage. For Yellowstone fans the town is also a key filming location for the show including Ruby’s Café and Bozeman General Hospital.
Take a multi-centre holiday around the National Parks
A journey through the National Parks of the West and Southwest is essential for anyone wanting to experience the spirit of the frontier. American Holiday’s National Parks Escorted Tours have seen an increase in interest, guiding adventurous travellers through iconic destinations like Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, and the stunning deserts of Utah, where rugged landscapes meet the timeless charm of the West.
Hike breathtaking trails and stargaze beneath vast, open skies. A trip around the National Parks isn’t just a holiday—it’s an opportunity to embrace the spirit of the Old West while connecting with nature’s most awe-inspiring wonders.
A spokesperson at American Holidays said, “The US West and Deep South are renowned for their authenticity, offering everything from deeply rooted country music to iconic American national parks. As travellers seek more immersive experiences and these cultural treasures gain prominence in modern popular culture, it’s no wonder these stunning regions are seeing a surge in popularity.
“For those ready to saddle up for their next adventure in 2025, American Holidays is here to make your trip planning seamless—whether you’re dreaming of line dancing in Texas or exploring breathtaking National Parks.”
[1] Taken from SkyScanner’s recent 2025 Trends Report.[2] https://www.americanholidays.com/en-gb/holidays/great-american-west/
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