United States Figure Skating varies the location of the U.S. National Championships around the whole country so fans from all regions can access the premier competition easily every few years. Some locations have been especially great as a vacation destination because they offer many other things to do besides attending the competition.
The U.S. National Championships was held in San Jose in 1996, 2021, and 2018. As the center of Silicon Valley there are plenty to technological sites to visit including the Tech Interactive and the Intel Museum. Mystery (and history) lovers should investigate the Winchester Mystery House. San Jose is also a great starting point for visiting the beach as there are many of the best beaches in the U.S. within an hour drive. Also San Francisco is also less than an hour away. San Jose has so many attractions that it is one of the best places that Nationals has been held. Nationals will also be held in San Jose in 2023.
The U.S. National Championships was held in Boston in 1962, 2001, and 2014. Boston is full of history, culture, and things to do. One of the most walkable cities in the U.S. you can cover many sights in one day. You can walk the Freedom Trail, visit the Boston Common and the Boston Garden and even stroll the Greenway in one day. Make sure to visit the North End for great Italian food or the Seaport District for seafood. Take the “T” to Cambridge to visit Harvard Square.
Nashville, Tennessee held Nationals in 1997 and will host again in 2022. Nashville is most well known for its music scene. Some attractions include the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Grand Ole Opry. The city also has many live musical performances each week. Visitors who want more than music can visit the many museums in the city or visit one of the many parks in the city limits. Centennial Park contains a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon.
Spokane, Washington hosted the U.S. National Championships in 2007 and 2010. Spokane is well known for its outdoor activities and historical buildings. Residents and visitors like to walk along the 37 mile long Centennial Trail or visit the beautiful Riverfront Park or Spokane Falls. Almost half of Spokane’s downtown buildings are on the Historic Register. Make sure to visit the St. John’s Cathedral and the Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox.
St. Paul Minnesota hosted the U.S National Championships in 2008 and 2016. Visitors to St. Paul get double the fun with St. Paul’s “Twin City” of Minneapolis. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Chain of Lakes and the Minnehaha Falls at the Minnehaha Park. Shopaholics can get their fix at the Mall of America the largest mall in the United States with over 500 stores. But the Mall of America is not just for shopping. There is also an amusement park on the ground floor. St. Paul is also a great starting point for a drive along the Mississippi River.
Two of these great cities will host the U.S. National Championships in the next two years. Make sure to plan your vacation ahead of time!