Interesting... I spent two years studying in Oregon, and three years living and working there after that, and I understand a lot of these comments (in both directions). Of course, the states are more alike than, say EU countries, but some of these responses (and the premise of the OP) assume much more homogeneity than really exists in the country.

I can only speak with real experience about the West Coast. But it does have a spectacular (and quite diverse) natural landscape. Fantastic cuisine – from a vast range of local produce – abounds up and down the coast. Great coffee, a vibrant micro-roasting and brewing scene, and wonderful wines back this up. A fascinating environmental and social history.* Sure, other places have lots to recommend them -- I like to visit them also! Travels to Jordan and California are not (should not be) mutually exclusive.

If the sum total of the U.S. experience is Denny's and the Cheesecake Factory, then you're missing out. But if you came to London and all you did was visit The Real Greek and Costa Coffee, you'd have a disappointing experience here. Strip malls, endless suburbs, bland chain food -- all of these things exist in the States, and I find them pretty depressing. Then again, I wouldn't suggest that a visitor to the UK spent a great deal of time in Croydon or Slough, either!

Going to the States isn't an adventure in the same way as, say, India. But just because there's a well-established tourist trail in the US doesn't mean you should stay on it. Getting off the beaten track and exploring places (and especially cities) as locals experience can be pretty rewarding, I think, anywhere.

* It's very different to the Colonial history of the East Coast -- I like that too in its own way, but in the West it feels less of a 'created' experience.