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25 Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on April 3, 2024

As one of the largest and most diverse countries in the world, The United States boast an amazing amount of tourist destinations ranging from the skyscrapers of New York and Chicago, the natural wonders of Yellowstone and Alaska to the sunny beaches of California , Florida and Hawaii.

With so many tourist attractions in the USA it’s tempting to list entire cities or even states, but in this top 25 I have tried to focus on specific attractions.

25. Mount Rushmore [SEE MAP]

Perhaps the most unmistakably American landmark is Mount Rushmore, a national memorial located in South Dakota. Constructed in the early 20th century, Mount Rushmore depicts the faces of four former American presidents, each of which is carved and blasted from the side of a rock face.

Visitors can admire the larger-than-life faces of Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. The short Presidential Trail at the base of Mount Rushmore provides better views and an interesting perspective on the landmark.

24. Pike Place Market in Seattle [SEE MAP]

Overlooking the waterfront of Elliott Bay in Seattle, Washington, is the Pike Place Market. Opened in 1907, the market is now a historic, iconic part of the city. Pike Place Market is the ultimate place to shop in Seattle, because it is full of the oldest establishments in the region.

There are markets where fresh fish straight from the Puget Sound gets tossed dramatically, cheesemongers who offer tastings of locally made brie and camembert and then there is the site of the original Starbucks coffee shop.

23. Venice Beach in Los Angeles [SEE MAP]

No visit to Los Angeles is complete without a trip to Venice Beach. Its canals and beaches are spectacular, but the biggest hit is undeniably the Venice Beach Boardwalk. This is a truly entertaining spot where street performers juggle, dance, sculpt and sing for passersby.

Shop for souvenirs, grab a refreshing drink and bring some small bills for a stroll on the boardwalk. After stopping to admire a live performer, many visitors tip a dollar or two to show appreciation.

See also: Where to Stay in Los Angeles

22. Mesa Verde [SEE MAP]

The Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is home to the preserved homes of the Ancestral Pueblo people. Many of these homes, which are carved right from caves and rock faces, date back to the early 13th century.

Today, it is possible to walk beneath the overhanging cliffs and tour these ancient abodes. The Balcony House is especially well preserved, and it boasts 40 rooms that are accessible exclusively by ladder. The nearby Cliff Palace is even bigger, and it is believed to have housed more than 100 people in its 150 original rooms.

21. Faneuil Hall in Boston [SEE MAP]

One of the most historic destinations in Boston, a city already full of heritage, is Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Also known as the Cradle of Liberty, this early 18th century structure served as a space where early leaders gathered to fight against oppression in the years before and during the American Revolutionary War.

Today, touring Faneuil Hall Marketplace means lots of opportunity to shop for local produce and desserts in the indoor and outdoor marketplace.

20. Kennedy Space Center [SEE MAP]

Cape Canaveral, located on the coast of Florida, boasts a lot of space-related attractions. One of the best is the Kennedy Space Center, which has been the launch site for every US human space flight since 1968 and currently operates as a launch site for unmanned rockets.

Visitors can learn more about the early pioneers into space, and they can also experience the tension and excitement over the rush to the moon. There is even the chance to participate in the Shuttle Launch Experience, which replicates the experience of space travel.

19. Navy Pier in Chicago [SEE MAP]

Extending over the waters of Lake Michigan is Navy Pier, an enormous pier in the heart of Chicago’s coastal Streeterville neighborhood. Within the pier, there are countless attractions suited to the whole family.

Beautifully manicured gardens are the ideal place for a scenic stroll, and lots of souvenir shops are a wonderful way to snag gifts on a vacation to Chicago. The pier is also home to the Chicago Children’s Museum, two theaters and an abundance of excellent restaurants.

18. Great Smoky Mountains National Park [SEE MAP]

Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is the most visited in the entire country, thanks in large part to its enormous size and its incredible scenery.

Visitors can hike through old growth forest, spot hundreds of species of birds and check out the two visitor centers. Hikes can also wind through trails that lead to the waterfalls of Laurel Falls and the vistas of Clingman’s Dome.

17. River Walk in San Antonio [SEE MAP]

In the city of San Antonio, Texas , there are few attractions more appealing than the River Walk. Also known as the Paseo del Rio, the River Walk is a network of walkways lining the San Antonio River.

Reserved for pedestrians, the revitalized area is packed with fascinating architecture, lush greenery and water views. The River Walk is a hub for dining and culinary exploration in this Texan city. It is possible to dig into Tex-Mex cuisine, upscale French fare and everything in between in this one easily navigable destination.

16. Carlsbad Caverns [SEE MAP]

As the name suggests, Carlsbad Caverns is a collection of over 115 caves. Located in southern New Mexico, these caverns are carved from limestone, and it is possible for visitors to descend more than 900 feet (275 meters) below the surface of the earth on a guided tour.

The largest single cave chamber in all of North America is found here and is known as the Big Room. Within the room itself, visitors can set off on a 90-minute walk exploring the incredible underground environment.

15. Bryce Canyon National Park [SEE MAP]

Located in Southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking display of rock formations. Technically, Bryce Canyon isn’t a canyon, but a series of natural amphitheaters. Mormon settlers once called the canyon home, but now most visitors come for the awe-inspiring views and the magnificent hiking opportunities.

Sunset Point is one of the most popular vantage points, offering panoramic views of the red, yellow and orange rock formations. Queen’s Garden Trail is another favorite, because it offers green trees among the red rocks for a brilliant juxtaposition.

14. French Quarter in New Orleans [SEE MAP]

New Orleans, Louisiana, is made up of several unique districts, but none is so famous as the French Quarter. Also known as the Vieux Carre, the French Quarter truly explores the rich French colonial influences on the city of New Orleans . Incredible architecture abounds, with the St. Louis Cathedral being the main attraction.

The French Quarter boasts the Moon Walk, a paved walkway next to the Mississippi River, as well as Bourbon Street, the undeniable hub of nightlife, drinking and entertainment in the city.

13. Sedona Red Rock Country [SEE MAP]

A two-hour drive north of Phoenix is Sedona, Arizona. Sedona isn’t a big city, but it is a major tourist attraction in the USA thanks to its gorgeous red rock landscape. Known as Red Rock Country, this region is an outdoor lover’s dream. Countless canyons, creeks and paths encourage outdoor activity, with Cathedral Rock Trail being one of the local favorite hiking spots.

One of the most interesting spots in Sedona combines the new with the old, with the contemporary Chapel of the Holy Cross built right into the side of the red rocks themselves.

12. Walt Disney World in Orlando [SEE MAP]

Orlando, Florida , is a hub of amusement parks, but none is so popular as Walt Disney World. Many travelers don’t realize that Walt Disney World is actually made up of several distinct theme parks, including the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and the Blizzard Beach Water Park.

Visitors will be able to enjoy thrill rides, watch Broadway-quality shows and explore the nightlife, cuisine, shopping and entertainment at Disney Springs.

11. Yosemite National Park [SEE MAP]

In the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, there is Yosemite National Park. This extraordinary destination is known the world over for its amazing scenery. Within this single park, visitors can peer off spectacular granite cliffs, admire clear waterfalls and see sequoia trees that are hundreds of years old.

Yosemite Valley is a top spot to explore in the park, because it boasts the enormous Yosemite Falls as well as the granite monolith called Half Dome.

10. White House in Washington D.C. [SEE MAP]

The White House in Washington DC is the official residence and office of the President of the United States. It was built between 1792 and 1800 and first used by President John Adams.

After the 9/11 attacks it has become more difficult to visit the White House and today tours are available only for groups of 10 or more and must be requested up to six months in advance through your member of Congress or your country’s US Ambassador.

9. Denali National Park [SEE MAP]

The Denali National Park and Preserve is located in Interior Alaska and contains Mount McKinley, the highest mountain in North America. The word “Denali” means “the high one” in the native Athabaskan language and refers to Mount McKinley. In addition, the park protects an incredible wilderness area that contains grizzly bears, caribou, moose, wolves, and numerous other creatures.

8. Las Vegas Strip [SEE MAP]

The gambling mecca of the world, Las Vegas is situated in the midst of the southern Nevada desert landscape. Casinos can be found throughout Las Vegas, but the strip, a stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard South, contains the most of them.

It features giant mega-casino hotels, decorated with lavish care and attention to detail to create a fantasy-like atmosphere. The casinos often have names and themes that evoke romance, mystery, and far-away destination.

See also: Where to Stay in Las Vegas

7. Florida Keys [SEE MAP]

The Florida Keys are a 120 mile long chain of tropical islands curving around the base of the Florida peninsula, connected to the mainland by a series of bridges.

The most spectacular bridge, the Seven Mile Bridge in the Lower Keys, has been frequently used as a location for films including True Lies and Fast 2 Furious. US Highway 1, the “Overseas Highway” runs from Key Largo , Islamadora, Marathon, Lower Keys and finally to Key West, the most distant and most famous island.

6. Kilauea [SEE MAP]

Kilauea is the most recent of a series of volcanoes that have created the Hawaiian Archipelago. It is a very low, flat shield volcano, vastly different in profile from the high, sharply sloping peaks of stratovolcanoes.

Kilauea is one of the most active volcano on the Earth, an invaluable resource for volcanologists. Thirty-three eruptions have taken place since 1952, not including the current eruption which started on January 3, 1983 and is still ongoing.

5. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

Situated between the state of New York and the province of Ontario, Niagara Falls is one of the most spectacular natural wonders on the North American continent. Niagara Falls is actually three different falls, the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls.

Horseshoe Falls is located on the Canadian side while the other are located in New York. With more than 14 million visitors each year it is one of the most visited tourist attraction in the world.

4. Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco [SEE MAP]

The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the strait between San Francisco and Marin County to the north.

The Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge span in the world when it was completed in 1937, and has become an internationally recognized symbol of San Francisco and California . The famous red-orange color of the bridge was specifically chosen to make the bridge more easily visible through the thick fog that frequently shrouds the bridge.

3. Yellowstone [SEE MAP]

Yellowstone National Park was the world’s first national park, set aside in 1872 to preserve the vast number of geysers, hot springs, and other thermal areas, as well as to protect the incredible wildlife and rugged beauty of the area. Yellowstone lies on top of a gigantic hotspot where light, hot, molten mantle rock rises towards the surface.

Subsequently, the park contains half of all the world’s known geothermal features, with more than 10,000 examples of geysers and hot springs. In addition, black bears, grizzly bears, deer, elk, bison and wolves can all be found within the park borders.

2. Manhattan [SEE MAP]

Manhattan is one of New York’s five boroughs and is what people most often think of when they picture New York City . It’s familiar skyline and sights have been featured a thousand times on screen. Walk in the shadow of the skyscrapers, picture the Statue of Liberty, see a Broadway show , climb the Empire State building, stroll Central Park, window shop on 5th Avenue or stagger around a museum.

1. Grand Canyon [SEE MAP]

The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona and is one of the great tourist attractions in the United States. Carved over several million years by the Colorado River, the canyon attains a depth of over 1.6 km (1 mile) and 446 km (277 miles) long.

The Grand Canyon is not the deepest or the longest canyon in the world but the overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape offers visitor spectacular vistas that are unmatched throughout the world.

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Reader interactions.

November 12, 2020 at 8:34 pm

I’ve been to almost all of these. HANDS DOWN Grand Canyon- Bryce-Tetons- Yellowstone-Glacier is the most amazing trip. I’ve been all over the world, and Yellowstone’s wildlife and the view at the Grand Canyon are by far the most epic. I love Washington State as well: Mt. Ranier, Seattle, Olympic and the anitoles- you can see a variety in a small distance.

July 26, 2019 at 10:32 am

You should have included the historic triangle in Virginia. It includes Williamsburg (Colonial Williamsburg) Jamestown (America’s first settlement) & Yorktown (the site of Cornwallis’ surrender, effectively ending the Revolutionary War) it is literally the birth place of this great nation and is a huge tourist destination.

May 24, 2019 at 10:31 pm

Nice article, but may I make one correction regarding Pike Place Market? As a local tour guide, it bugs me when people tell our visitors that the Starbucks at the market is the original. It isn’t, and I try to set this myth straight every chance I get. The original Starbucks was on Western Ave., and burned down in the 70s. The original owner and team moved to the present location at the market, which is how they get away with calling it original, but in reality, it is misleading the public.

October 31, 2018 at 10:15 am

Hello!? Savannah GA is amazing. It’s like stepping back in time.

August 17, 2017 at 7:54 pm

oh my gaawwwd. these photos are amazing and I cant wait to go back to the us so I can visit vegas. I didn’t get to last time so im really looking forward to it!!!

September 1, 2016 at 11:10 am

I am excited to see Niagra falls soon and its my dream to see New York specially Statue of Liberty, Central park and Brooklyn Bridge. I hope that soon i shall be there.

February 9, 2015 at 8:09 am

It makes you dream and want to go there. I’ve learned a lot on the USA thanks to your site and the like. Your publications perfectly reflect the wonderful side of the USA.

January 30, 2015 at 12:36 am

Christina Rusia! You are right America is fabulous and offer amazing sights to see there. I have explored its major attractions and Niagara Falls and Grand Canyon are one of those places which are my ever best spots to enjoy the natural beauty. Recently I went to have some fun with friends in Nagara Falls after my pedestrian streets trip.

October 14, 2014 at 6:04 pm

I think that america is fabulous, The sights and also the view is amazing to see and visit. I am currently in New York.

July 24, 2014 at 11:32 pm

I visited Yellowstone National Park. This is an awesome place in USA.

December 12, 2013 at 4:46 am

I have been very lucky myself to have visited most of these places. One of my main reasons why I love America (USA) is because of the diversity the country has to offer in terms of landscapes e.g. countryside, deserts, mountains ect. Out of the above Yellowstone and Vegas are my favourites. Niagara Falls was an sight I will never forget – waking up each morning and opening my hotel room curtains to see the falls directly below….breathtaking.

November 30, 2013 at 7:03 am

these are great places

September 14, 2013 at 6:17 am

Las Vegas is my final destination …….thankew. informative website

August 20, 2013 at 5:23 pm

I think that Niagara Falls needs to be higher on the list. Who agrees?

March 27, 2013 at 6:44 am

Niagara Falls & Manhattan is my dream….I have no word to express the beauty

February 19, 2013 at 1:03 am

great feed back about us visitor Sp like me who is going to visit USA first time and with family it was quite difficult for me to decide where to go but after visiting this page i am clear about my trip thanks alot

November 14, 2012 at 10:45 pm

I can say that I have been very fortunate to have visited all but one of these tourist attractions. (Alaska being the only one) Visiting Alcatraz and seeing the Golden Gate was interesting, along with watching the Geysers in Yellowstone. I live in NY (15 minutes from Niagara Falls and an easy drive to NYC) so those don’t interest me as much but after driving cross country in my early twenties, I have realized just what a beautiful country we live in. I now have three children and make it a point to travel with them. Each child gets a surprise birthday trip every year and it has proved to be not only memorable but also educational. My 11 year old has been many places, in and out of the U.S. and now is starting to understand the value of travel. Great site! 🙂

September 24, 2012 at 12:34 pm

Manhattan: “… stagger around a museum”… you have you never lied. I recently visited New York, and a friend of mine and I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Our initial plan was to try and see if we could make it through that one and the American Museum of Natural History. After a good 7 hours in the Met, we ended up taking a taxi to Penn Station, and slept our way back on the train to Long Island. I will say, however the exhaustion was worth it.

August 6, 2012 at 8:52 am

A great page, I’ve been to the USA many times – Cities such as New York and San Francisco are really worth a visit – For natural wonder Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon are a must.

August 28, 2011 at 9:18 pm

Very good collection of tourist places. I have bookmarked this page, and i will follow this blog at the time of my usa tour. Thanks.

April 26, 2011 at 3:47 am

Fabulous photos of places to visit in the US. I have been very lucky to visit Vegas, and to have flown over the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. Over the page you have photos of Alaska and Denali National Park which I plan to visit next year. When I see those photos I can hardly wait. Thanks great post.

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The 20 top tourist attractions in the USA

Discover the top tourist attractions in the USA, from national-park essentials to iconic structures to must-see streets

Visiting popular tourist attractions can often mean navigating long lines and crowds—essentially, a lot of work for an experience that sometimes doesn't live up to the hype. While some attractions may be a bust, specific landmarks across the United States are well worth the effort. 

The top tourist attractions in the USA span from coast to coast, including iconic  buildings  like the national monuments in Washington DC, must-stroll neighborhoods  like the French Quarter in New Orleans,  unique landmarks  like the Space Needle in Seattle, or sights within breathtaking national parks .

We have rounded up the top U.S. tourist attractions you should add to your bucket list. In your quest to check them off your list, make a trip out of it and book one of the best hotels in America . And if you’re looking for a bit more travel inspiration, check out the best places to visit in the USA right now.

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Top tourist attractions in the USA

1.  National Mall | Washington DC

Immaculately maintained by the National Park Service, the National Mall and Memorial Parks feature more than 1,000 acres of must-see monuments, sites and green space. While the Washington Monument towers above all else—quite literally, the city doesn’t zone for buildings taller than the marble icon—the Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are just as magnificent. Though it will take a full day (or two) to see the National Mall, set aside some time to peruse through some of  Washington, D.C.’s top museums .

2.  Niagara Falls | New York State

Situated on the border of New York and Canada, the three waterfalls (Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridalveil Falls) have the combined highest flow rate of any waterfall worldwide. Their impressive force is nothing short of awe-worthy. A top tourist destination since the 19th century, the unstoppable beauty and charm of Niagara Falls  make it a memorable and unique landmark. 

3.  The French Quarter | New Orleans, LA

The oldest corner of New Orleans remains its most charming attraction. Walk down famous Bourbon Street to enjoy jazz, great nightlife and tons of food. While you travel on a streetcar between destinations, pay close attention to the spectacular architecture. And no trip to the French Quarter would be complete without a taste of authentic Cajun grub or a stop to pay your respects in the Cities of the Dead. 

4.  Statue of Liberty | New York City, NY

Though she may have been born in France, the Statue of Liberty has become synonymous with America and the country’s highest-held values. True, the 151-foot-tall copper monument can be seen up close from aboard the free Staten Island Ferry, but you can also pay your respects in person and even step inside it while on an official tour.

5.  Old Faithful | Yellowstone Park, WY

A cone geyser found in Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful is not entirely as predictable as it once was (it won’t erupt precisely every 74 minutes, for example) yet remains as historically exciting. When erupting, the geothermal feature unleashes more than 3,700 gallons of piping hot water. When you’re done marveling at the spectacle, spend at least a full day exploring the rest of the park.

6.  The Strip | Las Vegas, NV

Immortalized in a seemingly endless amount of movies, the Strip’s bright lights, larger-than-life performers and casinos are burned into our collective subconscious. Whether planning on trying your luck at poker or looking to catch a diva’s residency, the Strip is a top destination for all things entertainment and, yes, a bit of debauchery.

7.  Smithsonian Museums | Washington, D.C.

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Located in the heart of this nation's capital, you can explore the  National Air & Space Museum , the National Museum Of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, and many more. The best part? It's all free. The latest addition to the museum line-up, which opened in 2016, is the National Museum of African American History and Culture and is a must-visit. 

8.  The Grand Canyon | Arizona

So, about five to six million years ago, the Colorado River more or less established its route through the Arizona desert. Glacial erosion, meltwater runoff and the simultaneous counter effect of the land slowly rising—as the weight of the glaciers was reduced—ultimately resulted in one of the most spectacular natural wonders on our modest, little blue-green planet. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, varies between four and 18 miles wide and has a maximum depth of 6,000 feet. There are hotels and restaurants in key locations, but for the most part, you should visit and marvel at how incredible this world is—you know, before we ruin it.

9.  J. Paul Getty Museum | Los Angeles, CA

The Getty brings visitors from across the country and around the world to California. The $1 billion facility, designed by internationally renowned architect Richard Meier, features travertine and white-metal pavilions highlighting the complex’s futuristic frame. Inside, find one of the most exciting art collections—including Medieval manuscripts, paintings by Van Gogh and Monet, and modern sculptures.

10.  Kennedy Space Center | Orlando, FL

If you’ve always dreamed of working in outer space, this is your chance to see and touch models of space shuttles, rockets, satellites, tools and mission control rooms. The simulators and explorable modules will make you feel like an actual astronaut—though if you wonder just how much the experience compares to the real deal, you can meet one of those brave scientists in person at the Astronaut Encounter Theater.

11.  Golden Gate Bridge | San Francisco, CA

Name a more iconic bridge—we'll wait. There's a reason the Golden Gate Bridge is so famous. With its vibrant international orange color and spanning from San Francisco to the Marin headlines, stands as a symbol of the West. There are countless ways to take in the stunning bridge views: head to a beach (try Baker Beach), head to the new Presidio Tunnel Tops Park, go to a vista overlook, or get up close and personal by crossing the bridge by foot or bike. A trip to San Francisco isn't complete until you get a picture with the Golden Gate in the background.

12.  Little Havana | Miami, FL

After decades of serving as a home to Cuban exiles, Little Havana has become a must-visit destination in its own right. While out on the town, throw back rum-spiked Caribbean drinks and dance the night away to live rumba and salsa music. The food here is legendary : Cuban sandwiches, Colombian arepas, savory tacos and other Latin American dishes will leave your mouth watering.

13.  Hoover Dam | Nevada

Perhaps the best example of America’s building prowess in the first half of the 20th century, this dam remains a bewildering feat of engineering and labor. Construction started in 1931 and took five years, 5,000 workers and 3.25 million cubic yards of concrete to complete. Today, you can tour the dam and its power plant to learn more about the facility’s history and unique features.

14.  The Gateway Arch | St. Louis, MO

Not only is St. Louis’s premiere attraction the world’s largest arch, but it is also the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Standing proud at 630ft tall, this metal beauty was built in the mid-20th century as a monument to America’s westward expansion and is meant to signify the connection of the East to the West, honoring the country’s first pioneers. To fully understand this architectural wonder, snag a ticket to the Gateway Arch Tram and ride to the top of the monument.

15.  Mammoth Cave Park | Kentucky

With more than 400 miles explored, the world’s longest known cave system (by far) is in Kentucky and it welcomes any visitor not afraid of the dark or the damp. See the dramatic passages lined with geological formations that might inspire your inner explorer during a guided tour by a park ranger. The tours vary in length but they always include historic details about how the cave system was formed and how people and other creatures have interacted with it. After several hours in the caverns, appreciate the beauty of the clear waters and the untouched nature of the area while on a bike ride or canoe adventure.

16.  Space Needle | Seattle, WA

Like many famous landmarks, Seattle’s iconic Space Needle was built for the World’s Fair, back in 1962 when the theme was “The Age of Space.” Today, it remains one of the most recognizable and photographed landmarks worldwide for its futuristic design. Standing at 605 feet tall, visitors can take an elevator up to the tower’s saucer-shaped top floor with 360-degree views. Recent renovations resulted in a multi-level viewing experience with floor-to-ceiling glass viewing that will make your stomach drop.

17.  Navy Pier | Chicago, IL

Clearly, one of the Midwest’s most popular destinations, Navy Pier is visited by roughly nine million people each year. From excellent shopping opportunities to eateries and, of course, Lake Michigan, the destination offers something for everyone. The little ones will be delighted by the Chicago Children’s Museum , while grown-ups should head to the award-winning Chicago Shakespeare Theater . 

18.  Alcatraz | San Francisco, CA

This formidable fortress in the middle of San Francisco Bay was converted from a lighthouse station to a military prison in the 1870s. However, it found genuine acclaim after being upgraded to a maximum security prison in 1934, home to the early 20th century’s most notorious criminals. Today, the tiny island is only accessible to the public via a ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. You should plan to spend about three hours soaking up the amazing history and during that time, a self-guided audio cellhouse tour narrated by former inmates and guards will fill you in on harrowing escape attempts, prison riots and the 19-month-long occupation of the site by Native Americans demanding reparation for broken treaties in 1969. 

19.  Venice Beach | Venice, CA

Wedged in between Marina del Ray and Santa Monica, Venice Beach is one of the biggest draws for visitors to Los Angeles. It's firmly established as the bohemian epicenter of Southern California and you won't find a higher concentration of recognizable landmarks from film and TV anywhere else in Los Angeles. At weekends, during the summer, it gets pretty packed, but that just adds to the slightly chaotic atmosphere. Street acts add a carnival feel to the proceedings, plus, of course, the beach is just a few feet away. Try Hinano Cafe  for a great burger in a back-to-basics, spit 'n sawdust setting and the newly refurbished Pier House for classic cocktails as the sun sets over the Pacific.

20.  Alamo Mission | San Antonio, TX

Most Americans know the phrase 'Remember the Alamo' even if they’re not exactly sure what transpired at the 18th-century Spanish mission. Later secularized and used as a fortress, 1836 the Alamo was the site of a bloody and decisive battle of the Texas Revolution between Texas’s early Anglo settlers and Mexico (the latter won). One of the most visited historic sites in the country today, the fort welcomes about three million visitors annually. 

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USA Travel Bucket List: 50 Places to Visit Before You Die

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media. Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two young children, and their dog, Indiana Bones (Indy). The Handy Item I Always Pack: Kindle Ultimate Bucket List Experience: Some sort of wellness retreat somewhere exotic. Travel Motto: Be flexible Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, if you prefer a middle seat, please message me so I can write an article about you.

While we’re often daydreaming of beaches in the Maldives and vineyards in Tuscany, there are plenty of amazing destinations in our own backyard. To help you with your bucket list, we’ve rounded up 50 places you must visit in the United States before you die — in no particular order.

1. New York City

One of the most-visited places in the world, New York City has numerous attractions, a multicultural population, and something for all types of travelers. Tourists should be sure to fit in a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square. Central Park offers a respite from the crowds, museums are impressive, and a show on Broadway followed by a slice of pizza is an ideal night out.

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The second-most popular national park in the U.S., the Grand Canyon in Arizona wows with its Colorado River-formed canyon, which stretches 277 miles long and over a mile deep. Visitors can see the park from scenic lookout points, via a stunning helicopter ride , during whitewater rafting, while riding a mule, or by hiking down and back.

3. Disney World, Florida

One of the most magical places for people of all ages, the massive Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando has four fun theme parks. Magic Kingdom has the breathtaking Cinderella Castle and nightly fireworks shows, while Epcot allows park-goers to travel around the globe by showcasing 11 different countries — think a pagoda in Japan, a biergarten in Germany, and Eiffel Tower views in France.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Vibrant, historic, and downright fun, New Orleans is a popular city throughout the year. While most people know about the city’s rambunctious Mardi Gras celebrations, NOLA also offers world-class jazz music, delicious Creole and Cajun cuisines, art galleries, ghost tours, and notable buildings such as the 18th-century St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is best explored with a coffee and beignet or a frozen cocktail in hand.

5. San Antonio Missions, Texas

Sure, you probably know about The Alamo in San Antonio, but it’s actually one of five Spanish missions found across the city. The oldest is Mission Espada , which was built in 1690; original frescoes are still visible inside Mission Concepcion ; and the largest is Mission San José . Visitors can bike or drive between the missions, and park rangers provide free tours.

6. Niagara Falls, New York

While we’d argue that Niagara Falls is more impressive from the Canadian side , you can still witness the three stunning waterfalls without a passport. Head to Prospect Point in Niagara Falls State Park for a stellar vantage point, or consider a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a more up-close-and-personal view. Also worth a visit is Cave of the Winds , which is set behind Bridal Veil Falls and offers visitors a sensational view of the falls, often accompanied by a beautiful rainbow.

7. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Opened in 1937, the famous Golden Gate Bridge is an orange-colored suspension bridge that impresses with its main span of 4,200 feet and a total height of 746 feet. It connects San Francisco to Marin County, where the Golden Gate National Recreation Area has hiking, historical attractions, and lovely vistas of the bridge and San Francisco. After snapping a photo on land, travelers can bike or walk across the bridge for more picturesque views.

8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Both a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most frequented national park in America. The gorgeous park is located in both Tennessee and North Carolina, and it has tons of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and water tubing. Fall also offers striking foliage.

9. Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see where the government is run. From the White House to the Capitol to the Supreme Court Building, all three branches of government are found here, in addition to historical monuments such as the [Lincoln Memorial](Lincoln Memorial), the Washington Monument , and World War II Memorial . Visitors can also spend hours touring the various Smithsonian museums within the National Mall .

10. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

One of the most well-known geological features in the country, Old Faithful , is a cone geyser within Yellowstone National Park . It was discovered in 1870 and got its name from its frequent and generally predictable eruptions, which occur about every 60 to 110 minutes. An average eruption is 130 to 140 feet high, expelling 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of water (depending on the length of the eruption).

Related: The 6 Best National Parks for Winter Wildlife Spotting

11. South Beach, Miami

South Beach is Miami‘s trendy hot spot, home to one of the prettiest beaches in America, gorgeous Art Deco architecture, tasty Cuban fare, and popular nightlife spots. A Latin American influence pervades the city at large, and in South Beach, tourists can shop at fancy boutiques, eat cheap Cuban sandwiches, and lounge at posh beach clubs . A beachside boardwalk is great for strolling or biking and, of course, people-watching.

12. The Narrows, Zion National Park

Within Utah’s Zion National Park , The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. It’s the park’s most popular hike due to its striking setting within a gorge, where the river acts as the trail. Hikers must wade in water that varies from ankle- to waist-deep. It’s particularly pleasant in the hot summer months, but visitors should stay on top of weather conditions, as it’s known for dangerous flash flooding.

13. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is a charming artsy town with a strong Native American influence. Pueblo-style architecture, a central plaza where vendors sell various handicrafts, and historic sights such as Loretto Chapel give the city a unique feel, plus there’s plenty to keep busy throughout the year. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine are additional highlights.

14. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Whether you choose to drive the entire 659 miles of the Pacific Coast Highway or just a fraction thereof, you’ll be rewarded with sensational vistas. Certain routes can be done in a day, but we recommend taking your time by starting in San Francisco and slowly making your way to Orange County. The best views are arguably in Big Sur, where you’ll find rugged cliffs against the ocean on one side and redwood forests on the other.

15. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Just outside of Washington, D.C., is Arlington National Cemetery , which spans 624 acres and houses the graves of 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their families. The graves of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis are frequently visited, as is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains haven’t been identified. The moving Changing of the Guard can be witnessed every 30 or 60 minutes while the cemetery is open, depending on the time of year.

16. Nashville, Tennessee

Even those who don’t love country music will likely be enamored with Nashville, Tennessee. Excellent restaurants and hip bars make for a thriving nightlife scene, and the live music — much of which is country — on Broadway is not to be missed. Top attractions include Centennial Park for its full-size replica of Greece’s Parthenon, the Grand Ole Opry concert hall, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

17. Freedom Trail, Boston

Boston played a large part in America’s independence, and the city’s Freedom Trail passes through 16 historically significant locations. The two-and-a-half-mile trail takes visitors to Boston Common (America’s oldest public park), the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere’s House , and the USS Constitution (the oldest commissioned ship that acts as a museum today).

18. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Located in southern California, east of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a dreamy destination known for its distinctive-looking namesake trees, big boulders that are ideal for rock climbing, and stellar stargazing opportunities . Visitors can drive through, hike around, camp, or ride horseback through the desert landscape.

19. Road to Hana, Maui

The top attraction in Maui on TripAdvisor, the Road to Hana (Hana Highway) is a 64.4-mile drive that connects Kahului, where the airport is located, to the town of Hana on Maui’s more rugged east coast. The drive is not for the faint of heart, as it has over 600 switchbacks and 56 one-lane bridges, but the speed limit never surpasses 25 miles per hour. Travelers who hit the road are rewarded with spectacular lush greenery, stunning black-sand beaches, multiple waterfalls, and spots to buy banana bread.

20. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Colorado

Located about a 30-minute drive outside of Denver, the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is an open-air concert and entertainment venue. The entire theater, including the seating, was built into the red rocks, which make for a phenomenal acoustic experience. Tourists can run up and down the steps in the morning and see big-name acts at night. Past performers include The Beatles, U2, Coldplay, and John Denver.

Related: Maui vs. Kauai: Which Hawaiian Island Is Better for You?

21. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is where the Colorado River takes a horseshoe-shaped bend in Glen Canyon. Visitors to Horseshoe Bend have skyrocketed since it gained recognition through Instagram. It’s easily accessible, as travelers can hike a one-and-a-half-mile round-trip trail from a parking lot off the highway.

22. Austin, Texas

The capital of Texas, Austin, is a hip, youthful city where low-frills barbecue joints and big-name tech corporations coexist. From stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Austin to topless sunbathing at Barton Springs Pool , there are a lot of ways to beat the daytime heat. Nights can be spent at upscale restaurants, Sixth Street bars with live music, or watching bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Buy a University of Texas T-shirt and some cowboy boots while you’re there.

23. Space Needle, Seattle

An iconic landmark in Seattle, the Space Needle is an observation tower that was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. With its antenna, it rises 604 feet, allowing for panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding water. A 100-million-dollar renovation included the creation of the Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. A cafe and wine bar entice visitors to linger.

24. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Located in South Dakota, this famous landmark depicts four American presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore . Constructed between 1927 and 1941, the sculpture features the 60-foot heads of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

25. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico

Every year since 1972, Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta, in which the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons. For nine days in October, families and friends gather to watch the largest balloon festival in the world.

26. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Another top attraction (and the most-photographed) within Yellowstone National Park is the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest hot spring in the United States, measuring 370 feet in diameter. It’s best viewed from above, as the spring has vibrant bands of rainbow colors.

27. Griffith Observatory, California

Situated on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, Griffith Observatory is a popular observatory with free admission. It has stellar views of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles, and visitors can use telescopes, the planetarium, various events, and a cafe.

28. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Completed in 1932, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a two-lane highway that allows visitors to traverse the 50-mile width of Glacier National Park . Various scenic lookouts and noteworthy hikes can be found off the road, and it crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Due to weather conditions, it generally doesn’t open until late June or early July.

29. Las Vegas, Nevada

Whether for a bachelorette party, Celine Dion concert, or business conference, there’s a good chance you’ve at least thought about going to Las Vegas. Sin City is renowned for its world-class casinos, nightlife, and celebrity-chef-helmed restaurants, not to mention rowdy pool parties with famous DJs. It’s not all debauchery, though, and many kid-friendly activities dot the city.

30. Acadia National Park, Maine

Maine‘s beauty is undeniable, and that’s perhaps best displayed at Acadia National Park . Located near Bar Harbor, the 47,000-acre park sits along the coast and offers ample wildlife, such as moose and peregrine falcons, beaches, lush forests, and granite ridges formed by glaciers. While summer is a popular time to visit, the fall foliage makes for great autumn hiking.

Related: Top 9 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

31. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Located a four-hour drive south of Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon is a national park best known for having the largest concentration of hoodoos (irregular rock columns) in the world. The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019 due to the great nighttime visibility and many astronomy-related programs on offer.

32. Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Often considered a symbol of America’s independence, the iconic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia was ordered by Pennsylvania Assembly in 1751. It was previously housed in Independence Hall, the building where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were adopted. It has since been moved to the Liberty Bell Center within the Independence National Historical Park .

33. Charleston, South Carolina

The 1670-founded Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city, Today, it offers a lovely mix of old-fashioned Southern charm and contemporary style. Cobblestone streets filled with horse-drawn carriages and striking mansions can be found in its well-preserved Historic District, while notable wartime places, like Fort Sumter and Patriots Point , sit nearby. Cute boutique shops and traditional Southern comfort food appeal to visitors, as does Folly Beach , located a 25-minute drive south of the city.

34. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot springs may conjure images of Iceland or Costa Rica, but the aptly named city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers U.S. travelers ample opportunities to soak in naturally heated springs. The town is located in the Ouachita Mountains, about one hour from Little Rock. Bathhouse Row has several bathhouse options, including places for coed or gender-segregated experiences. A few dispensers around the city let people obtain cold spring water straight from the mountain.

35. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Roughly equidistant from Portland and San Francisco, the Redwood National and State Parks encompass 139,000 acres and three state parks. Visitors here will find stunning redwood trees, which are some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in the world. On average, redwoods live between 500 and 700 years, and a typical redwood here measures 300 feet tall and 16 to 20 feet in diameter.

36. Oahu, Hawaii

The most popular of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu provides picture-perfect beaches, hiking opportunities, and the conveniences of a city — think budget-friendly hotels, chain restaurants, and an international eatery. Top attractions include Waikiki Beach in Honolulu , Diamond Head — a dormant volcano crater that can be hiked — and North Shore, a beach with huge waves that make it a frequent host of international surfing competitions in the winter. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also worth a visit.

The 49th state of Alaska is stunning, with greenery-filled forests, tons of wildlife (think bears, humpback whales, and moose), and massive glaciers. However, it’s not the easiest place to explore, as even the capital of Juneau has no roads leading out of the city. Arguably the best way to see Alaska is on a cruise , stopping at ports like Ketchikan , which has a strong native culture and renowned salmon fishing.

38. Sonoma, California

While we love Napa Valley in California, Sonoma provides a slightly less touristy wine-country experience. Sonoma is set among beautiful rolling hills, and many of the over 400 wineries within Sonoma County have a laid-back atmosphere that will put visitors at ease. Like Napa, Sonoma has tons of top-notch restaurants, relaxing spas, bike rentals, and charming bed-and-breakfasts to choose from.

39. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

A four-hour drive south of Portland, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is 183,224 acres and home to America’s deepest lake. Crater Lake, a caldera formed by the eruption of Mount Mazama volcano, is 1,943 feet deep at its deepest point and has a striking deep blue hue. Swimming and fishing are permitted, plus park-goers can hike, bike, ski, and stargaze.

40. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

Located 90 minutes north of Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage site. An active Native American community resides on Taos Pueblo lands, both within the Pueblo and in surrounding areas. The present buildings, which are made of adobe, are believed to have been constructed between 1000 and 1450 A.D. Guided tours are available of the site.

Related: Best Destinations for Adult-Only Vacations

41. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Another Instagram darling, Antelope Canyon , is a magnificent, awe-inspiring slot canyon near Horseshoe Bend in Arizona, formed by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. It’s located on Navajo tribal lands, and the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons can only be accessed with a guide licensed by the tribe.

42. Minnesota Lakes

Minnesota is considered the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” though it actually has nearly 12,000, and many are fantastic spots for a summer vacation. Whether you choose to dip your toes in the chilly Lake Superior — one of the Great Lakes — or go full-on swimming in Mille Lacs Lake (which is large but shallow), there’s a lake in Minnesota for you.

43. Arches National Park, Utah

Just outside of Moab is Arches National Park , famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches — the largest concentration of them on Earth. The most photographed is the 52-foot-tall, freestanding Delicate Arch, plus the park has many other striking geological formations.

44. Kentucky Derby

Since 1865, the Kentucky Derby horse race has been taking place at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. Women wear elaborate hats, while gentlemen don seersucker suits in pastel hues. Visitors come to watch the 20 three-year-old Thoroughbred horses race 1.25 miles — often with a mint julep in hand.

45. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located in Michigan’s Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a charming 1780-founded island with a population of just around 1,000 (though it sees many tourists during its peak season). A majority of the island is a state park, which has forests, wildlife, and hiking trails. The use of motor vehicles has been outlawed here since 1898, so expect to ride around on bikes or in horse-drawn carriages and buggies.

46. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica sits due west of Los Angeles, and the town lures travelers with its postcard-worthy beach, pier with amusement park rides, and boulevard lined by shops and eateries. A 22-mile paved bike trail is a great way to see the city, plus the famous Muscle Beach , an outdoor gym dating back to the 1930s, is not to be missed.

47. Space Center, Houston

The Space Center in Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and home of NASA Mission Control and astronaut training. It allows visitors to view more than 400 space artifacts, as well as traveling and permanent exhibits related to space travel.

48. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

About a 90-minute drive from Denver is Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park , which attracts millions of visitors each year with its 355 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives to more than 12,000 feet in elevation, and over 50 lakes and streams for fishing. Year-round activities abound, and travelers can either camp within the park or stay at a nearby hotel such as the Stanley Hotel (the inspiration for “The Shining”).

49. Fenway Park, Boston

Long considered America’s pastime, baseball is something every U.S. citizen and traveler should witness at least once. There are 30 Major League Baseball teams, and while Wrigley Field in Chicago, Yankee Stadium in New York, and Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles are all suitable spots, we love Fenway Park in Boston for its easy-to-reach location. Plus, the many die-hard Red Sox fans make for a fun experience.

50. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is a fascinating tourist attraction that was developed as a Civil War fortress, followed by a military prison and federal prison (until 1963). Ferries shuttle visitors to the island, where guided tours showcase the complex history of the site and its prison.

How many destinations can you check off the list? Find out down below:

24 Best Places to Visit in the United States

Written by Lana Law Updated May 3, 2023

Author Lana Law has spent many years traveling to all corners of the United States.

With so much to see in this vast country, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to planning a trip in the United States. World-class cities , some known for history and others known for fun or glamour, give you a broad spectrum of places to choose from. The best places to visit in the United States may simply depend on your personal interests.

Along the Eastern Seaboard , New York and Washington, D.C. offer two uniquely different city experiences. Along the West Coast , San Francisco and Los Angeles are both hot spots for tourists. In the Southwest , Las Vegas brings the desert to life, and the Grand Canyon shows off one of nature's greatest creations.

Beyond the mainland are the beaches of Waikiki and the tropical Hawaiian Islands , as well as Alaska. These are just a few key locations, but wonderful destinations for any type of traveler can be found all over the country.

Discover more of America with our list of the best places to visit in the United States.

1. New York

2. san francisco, 3. the grand canyon, 5. las vegas, 7. washington, d.c., 9. los angeles, 10. new orleans, 11. utah's national parks, 12. orlando/kissimmee, 13. chicago, 14. phoenix, 15. savannah, 17. yosemite national park, 18. colorado's rocky mountains, 19. seattle, 20. north carolina's outer banks, 21. santa fe, 22. san antonio, 23. yellowstone national park.

New York City is like no other city in the world, and one that must be experienced to be fully appreciated.

For first-time visitors, walking the streets can be like walking through a movie set, with famous sites at every turn, from the Empire State Building , to Rockefeller Plaza , the Chrysler Building , Central Park , The High Line , Times Square , 5th Avenue , Broadway , and of course, the Statue of Liberty .

Sightsee by day, take in a Broadway show in the evening, work in time for shopping or a stroll, and relax and reminisce over a fantastic meal. This is New York. With too much to see and do in a day, a weekend, or even a week, this is a city worth visiting time and time again.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New York City

This charming and picturesque West Coast city is the perfect getaway destination for couples, singles, or families. Famous sites, charming streets, beautiful views, and outdoor dining are all part of what makes San Francisco such a great place to visit.

Take a cruise on San Francisco Bay, tour Alcatraz , drive over the Golden Gate Bridge , wander around Fisherman's Wharf , hop on an historic street car, or try a do-it-yourself walking tour to explore the city sites.

Summer or fall is a wonderful time to visit, but the climate here is mild and any time of year is pleasant.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco
• Best Free Things to Do in San Francisco

The Grand Canyon is one of those must-see, bucket-list destinations that have been attracting visitors for generations. Gazing out over the canyon walls to an endless horizon and an unfathomable depth below is one of the highlights of any trip in the United States.

Visiting the Grand Canyon can easily be done on a day trip from Las Vegas or Phoenix , and from some smaller cities in the vicinity, including Sedona or Flagstaff . Another option is to incorporate a visit into a larger driving trip through Arizona and surrounding states. A train trip from Williams , AZ on the Grand Canyon Railway is another delightful way to experience the canyon.

The south rim of the Grand Canyon, which is the most popular and most visited section, is open all year, and visitors are welcome at any time of year. To avoid the crush of summer visitors, consider arriving in the spring or fall; the weather is good and the crowds smaller. The road to the north rim of the Grand Canyon is closed in winter due to snow.

• Top Attractions & Things to See at the Grand Canyon
• From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon: Best Ways to Get There

Houston is the perfect city for a friends' getaway, a couples' retreat, or a family vacation. With direct flights from cities across the United States and Canada, you can easily fly in to see a sports game, wander through Houston's Museum District , lounge by a pool at one of the many luxury hotels, and spend your evenings enjoying incredible meals.

Houston has developed into a hot spot for dining in the United States and is now well known for extraordinary cuisine.

If you want a relaxed but outdoor urban experience, rent a bike and peddle your way through the miles of paved trails in the parks or on the downtown streets. Rent a kayak and paddle along Buffalo Bayou in Buffalo Bayou Park .

In less than an hour, you can be on the nearby beaches or exploring Galveston , and along the way, you can make a stop at Space Center Houston .

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Houston

This glittering city of lights in the desert holds a unique appeal, and one that has been attracting visitors for decades. Huge resort complexes, with all kinds of things to see and do at any time of year, have made this a destination that draws everyone, from want-to-be newlyweds who come here to say their vows, to families or singles who just want to hang out around a pool.

Entertainment options are extensive, with some of the music industry's top stars calling Las Vegas home and playing to packed audiences every night. Cirque du Soleil offers another unique experience, and of course, each resort has something to entertain guests, from dancing fountains to an erupting volcano.

When you've had your fill of the city, there is plenty to explore in the surrounding area , with the Grand Canyon , Hoover Dam , Death Valley National Park , and Valley of Fire State Park all within easy day-tripping distance. Las Vegas is ideal for a long weekend if you live in Los Angeles or Phoenix.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Las Vegas
• Top-Rated Hiking Trails near Las Vegas, NV

Waikiki is one of America's top beaching destinations, with all the comforts of North America on a beautiful tropical island in the Pacific Ocean.

Located on the Hawaiian island of Oahu , Waikiki is a suburb of Honolulu known for the beautiful golden sand beach that stretches along the oceanfront, backed by hotels and retail establishments.

Rent a surfboard and test your skills in the waves, hit the shops when you're done with the beach, and enjoy great dining options in the evening. This is the perfect destination for everyone, from families to couples or singles.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things To Do in Waikiki

Washington, D.C. is the US capitol and home to some of the most famous sites and national treasures in America, from the White House and the Capitol Building to the Smithsonian museums. This city should be on everyone's itinerary of the East Coast .

In the spring, the Cherry Blossom Festival is a beautiful time to visit, when the trees are in full bloom. Summer can be hot. You may want to hit one of the beaches near Washington for a bit of a cool off.

Fall is also a good time to visit, when the hot summer temperatures have cooled off enough to make walking around outside very comfortable and the rush of the busy summer season has passed. In winter, the crowds are definitely smaller, and the city is stunning after a fresh snowfall.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington, DC
• Top-Rated Day Trips from Washington, D.C.

The hot spot of southern Florida, Miami is more than just a great beaching destination. Wonderful beaches can be found all over Florida , but Miami offers an atmosphere like no other city in the state.

The Cuban vibe along Calle Ocho in Little Havana , the Art Deco District in Miami Beach that calls to mind the 1930s era, the endless parade of sports cars cruising along Ocean Drive in the evenings, and the summertime beach scene of South Beach , are just some of the unique aspects that make Miami one of the best cities in the US.

For a unique experience take a day trip from Miami to Everglades National Park to see alligators, turtles, and an array of birds in this one-of-a-kind wetlands area.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Miami

Southern California has a culture all of its own, and Los Angeles is the epicenter of this unique area. The city has always been associated with glamour, with the suburbs of Hollywood , Beverly Hills , and Bel Air dominating pop culture. Travelers will find all kinds of vacation possibilities in the Los Angeles area.

Hollywood is a must for movie lovers, families come to experience nearby Disneyland , and shoppers will definitely find what they're looking for in the Los Angeles area .

If you are looking for a little sand and surf, head to one of the many beaches around LA . For an interesting natural history experience, be sure to visit La Brea Tar Pits to see fossil remains of prehistoric animals that roamed this area 40,000 years ago.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles
• Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles, CA

New Orleans is like no other southern city. The mix of cultures, with strong French and Spanish influences, is more reminiscent of the Caribbean than the United States. Cajun and Creole cuisine, jazz music, and the architecture of the French Quarter set this city apart.

Combined with an assortment of luxury resorts and hotels, New Orleans makes a perfect destination for a long weekend getaway .

The highlight of New Orleans' calendar year is Mardi Gras , when elaborate costumes and outrageous floats light up the streets, music can be heard everywhere, and the celebrations seem never-ending. However, if crowds are not your thing, you may want to avoid this time of year.

The best time to visit New Orleans is from December to May, but other seasons offer different benefits. June to November is hotter and prone to storms and hurricanes but is a good time to find deals.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans

Southern Utah is home to a landscape like no other, with canyons, arches, natural amphitheaters, and oddly beautiful rock formations. Fortunately, Utah's parks offer access to the state's most incredible scenery.

Zion National Park is one of the most outstanding, and particularly of interest for its hiking trails . Soaring cliff walls, waterfalls, and the river running through the valley, making this one of the most visited parks in the United States .

Arches National Park , near the town of Moab, is home to more than 2,000 sandstone arches, but is much more than the name suggests. Rock spires, petrified dunes, views to distant mountain peaks, and the numerous adventure opportunities in the area , make this a place you'll want to spend some time. It's also a top mountain biking destination in the United States .

Nearby, but completely different in character, is Canyonlands National Park . Some sections of this park are as enchanting as the Grand Canyon but not nearly as busy. Plan on at least a day to see two separate sections of the park, and more if you want to enjoy the hiking trails.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a completely different scene, with a huge natural amphitheater providing the base for a forest of colorful rock pinnacles. The hiking trails in Bryce , which take you through this mystical landscape, are mostly easy to moderate and worth doing. And lastly, Capitol Reef National Park is a little out of the way but is worth a stop if you can work it into your itinerary.

• Top-Rated National and State Parks in Utah
• Best Campgrounds Near Capitol Reef National Park

Orlando, which for most tourists is synonymous with Kissimmee, is all about the theme parks; Walt Disney World Resort , Universal Studios , and SeaWorld are the big attractions . This is one of the best vacation spots in the US for families . Kids love it. But adults will also enjoy the parks, as well as the shopping, dining, golfing, and sunshine.

School holidays are the busiest time to visit. Christmas and summer holidays are particularly hectic. Fortunately, Orlando is primed for tourists, with all kinds of hotels and home rentals available in the area.

The city is located inland but within easy day-tripping distance of both coasts and the popular Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral on the Atlantic Coast

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches near Orlando, FL

Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a great summer destination, with parks and a beautiful waterfront with amazing beaches . But its arts and cultural attractions, as well as fantastic shopping, make it a popular year-round destination.

The Magnificent Mile , along Michigan Avenue, is the city's most famous area, with high-end luxury stores and galleries, along with famous buildings and outstanding architecture. Some of the tourist highlights include Millennium Park , the Art Institute of Chicago , Navy Pier , and the views from the Willis Tower SkyDeck .

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Chicago

In the heart of the Southwestern US , Phoenix is a huge, sprawling city that attracts large numbers of northerners during the winter months, who come here to escape the cold weather. Phoenix is a great destination for golfing, shopping, relaxing, and generally having a good time.

The greater Phoenix area has some of the finest resorts in the state. They range from giant family-friendly complexes with beaches and waterslides to small, intimate operations where your every whim is indulged.

You may want to pack your golf clubs. The city and surroundings, which include Scottsdale , Mesa , and several other townships, are known in particular for their world-class golf resorts, some of the most important stops on the men's and women's PGA Tour.

If you have extra room in your suitcase, maybe squeeze in your hiking boots, too. Natural areas that showcase the desert landscape can be found within the city and nearby, providing easy access for hiking , and mountain biking. Summer temperatures can be extremely high, but October to April is very pleasant, especially if you want to spend time outdoors.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Phoenix
• Top-Rated Campground in the Phoenix Area

Savannah is the quintessential small southern city, with huge moss-covered trees in the beautiful parks, old southern mansions, and a lovely waterfront area with candy stores and other unique shops in historic buildings. The pace is slow, and the people are friendly.

It's easy to see that Savannah is a city where people live and enjoy life, rather than an area simply developed for tourism. The city center is small enough that you can walk everywhere. This is a city you can see in a day, but the kind of place where you will want to linger.

Nearby are some beautiful beaches at Tybee Island and Hilton Head Island , both of which can be reached by car in well under an hour.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Savannah

Located along the Eastern Seaboard, Boston is a city of history. The famous Freedom Trail leads past some of the city's most famous and historic sites, making sightseeing and navigating through the city extremely easy.

Picturesquely situated along the oceanfront, with ferries connecting the outer suburbs, Boston has a unique charm. Modern skyscrapers stand next to centuries-old buildings, and open public spaces , like Boston Common , give the city a quaint, small-town feel. The city also has a strong arts and cultural scene, and is home to the famous Boston Pops Orchestra .

Boston's winters are legendary. Nor'easters roar ashore every now and again, dumping copious quantities of snow. However, that doesn't stop these hardy residents from enjoying life. The list of things to do in winter is long, and this is still a great time of year for a visit.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston
• Top-Rated Beaches in the Boston Area

While the Grand Canyon is on most international travelers' itineraries, Yosemite is a national treasure that should not be missed. Yosemite Valley is home to some of America's most famous landscapes and iconic natural attractions, from the dramatic waterfalls to the soaring cliff walls of El Capitan and Half Dome .

The captivating photographs of Ansel Adams , the climbing community that has flocked here for decades, and the generations of families who have been coming to the park to enjoy the campgrounds , hike the spectacular trails , and soak up the scenery have all contributed to the park's history.

But long before this, the Miwok people inhabited the area. You can learn more about this at the Yosemite Museum and Indian Village of the Ahwahnee in the park.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

The dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains can be appreciated in many areas of North America, but in Colorado, the climate and small mountain towns make this one of the best places to visit the Rockies. Waterfalls and snow-capped peaks, more than 50 of which reach a height of 14,000 feet or more, make this a beautiful area for sightseeing and appreciating mountain life.

In summer, hiking , mountain biking , and rafting are popular pastimes. Inn winter, the mountains become a playground for skiers and boarders. The ski resorts in Colorado are some of the best in North America.

Some of the best places to visit are the towns of Vail, Aspen , Telluride , and Durango . Scenic drives, like the San Juan Scenic Byway and the Million Dollar Highway , which leaves from Durango, will take you through breathtaking mountain scenery and old mining towns like Silverton and Ouray . Or, hop on the Silverton & Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad for a relaxing day trip through the Rockies.

On the edge of the Rocky Mountains in the southwest corner of Colorado, a little over an hour from Durango, is Mesa Verde National Park . This fantastic park is home to incredible Native American cliff dwellings, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Colorado, USA

In the northwest corner of the US is the lovely coastal city of Seattle. Surrounded by water and snow-capped mountains, the city is reminiscent of Vancouver, Canada, with an active, outdoor oriented population and countless things to see and do .

Key sights in the city include the impossible-to-miss Space Needle , the lively Pike Place Market , and the waterfront. Within easy day-tripping distance of the city are beautiful beaches , the Hoh Rain Forest , and mountain landscapes, all waiting to be explored.

Although the winter months see more rain than summer, the city has a mild climate and is a nice place to visit at any time of year. You'll find no shortage of things to do in Seattle in winter .

• Best Museums in Seattle
• Top-Rated Hikes near Seattle, WA

North Carolina's Outer Banks are all about beaches. Miles and miles of spectacular beaches on narrow sand islands have been drawing people from across the United States since the 1830s.

Stretching for over 100 miles, these barrier islands have been the go-to place for families every summer for generations whether at campgrounds or wonderful resorts.

Off the beach, historical cities well worth visiting include Nags Head, Kitty Hawk (home to the Wright Brothers Memorial), Duck, Waves, and the towns on Hatteras Island. The Outer Banks are also home to some of America's most famous lighthouses, many of which are open for tours to the top.

Another popular pursuit is deep sea fishing . Many records have been broken by anglers in this offshore hot spot.

Read More: Best Coastal Towns in North Carolina

A melting pot of Spanish, Native American, Mexican, and Anglo-Americans, Santa Fe has a unique vibe that, once experienced, tends to draw one back time and time again. This historical city's pleasant streets, lined by Spanish colonial churches, adobe homes, and towering trees, just beg to be photographed.

Be sure to visit the Plaza, the beating heart of all that's going on in town. Cute cafés, many with patios, line the square and make a perfect perch to do a bit of people watching. After you've had your fill of that, wander into any one of the eclectic and unusual shops nearby.

Santa Fe is ideally positioned close to the mountains, where you'll find some of the best skiing in New Mexico at resorts including Taos, Pajarito, and Siapu.

Read More: Best Places to Visit in New Mexico

Although Dallas and Houston spring to mind first for many people when they think of Texas , those in the know, will always tell you that San Antonio is their favorite. The reasons for this are many: beautiful Spanish colonial churches and missions, the wonderful Riverwalk area, and, of course, The Alamo.

The city is relatively compact and easy to navigate. For a city of its size, it also has a number of excellent resorts and high-end hotels just waiting for you to check-in and be pampered. The city isn't all about history; it's also the home of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), and as a result is a hotbed of foodie delights. Be sure to wander over to the Pearl district to find some of the best places; your taste buds will thank you!

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in San Antonio

The thermal wonderland known as Yellowstone National Park has been drawing visitors since 1872. Bubbling mud pots, colorful boiling-hot water pools, and erupting geysers are sights that continue to amaze thousands of people every day.

Some of the must-sees when visiting the park include Old Faithful, whose eruptions blast scalding water up to 184 feet in the air; the Morning Glory Pool in the Upper Geyser Basin area; and the Minerva Terrace.

The park isn't all about thermal sights — the Lamar Valley is a wonderful area for hiking and seeing wildlife, including the park's signature bison herds.

Read More: Best Campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park

Off on its own in the far northwest, above Canada, lies one of the most fascinating states in the union. Snow-capped peaks, glaciers, wild rivers, and wide open spaces are all things that define Alaska .

A frontier attitude still prevails, and can be experienced in places like Anchorage , Fairbanks, and Juneau . This state is one of the most popular places to take a cruise along the Inside Passage where towering mountains reach right down to sea. Or, snuggle up to a roaring fireplace with your special someone at a luxury resort.

Pick your activity or sport; Alaska is a place for doing things outdoors, whether it's camping, mountaineering, canoeing, or fishing. In winter, head for Alaska's ski resorts or maybe catch a glimpse of the northern lights .

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Best Places to Visit in Winter: If you want to experience winter in all its glory, have a read through our article on the Best Winter Vacations in the United States . This isn't about beaches and warm weather getaways, it's for people thinking about snowmobiling, dog sledding, skiing, and drinking hot chocolate in a cozy cottage. And if you're looking to save a little money, see our list of the Best Cheap Ski Holidays in North America .

Getaways for Couples & Families: Trying to come up with somewhere for you and your partner to take a quick trip? See our list of Best Vacation Spots in the US for Couples to find a romantic destination for two. If you're looking for a destination where you can take the kids and have a good time, you'll enjoy our article on the Top Family Vacations in the US .

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Tourist Traps or Treasures? Exploring the 50 Must-See Attractions in the USA

From corny to captivating – america’s top tourist attractions revealed .

The United States, a vast and diverse nation, is home to many captivating tourist attractions, each with its unique charm and appeal. From the rugged natural wonders of national parks to the bustling streets of iconic cities, America offers abundant experiences to suit every traveler’s interests.

I n this list across the 50 states , we’ll explore the most visited tourist attraction in each region and delve into what makes them great, shedding light on the historical, cultural, and natural significance that draws millions of visitors year after year.

Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, immersion in rich history, or simply a taste of the American dream, these attractions represent what the United States has to offer to the world.

• Alaska – Denali National Park and Preserve : Denali, the highest peak in North America, and its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes make it a top attraction for nature enthusiasts.
• Arizona – Grand Canyon National Park : The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, known for its immense size and breathtaking vistas.

• California – Disneyland Resort : Disneyland is one of the most iconic theme parks globally, offering a magical experience for people of all ages.
• Colorado – Rocky Mountain National Park : This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

• Delaware – Rehoboth Beach : Known for its charming boardwalk and beautiful beaches, it’s a popular destination for a classic seaside vacation.
• Florida – Walt Disney World Resort : Like Disneyland in California, Disney World in Florida is a world-renowned theme park destination with multiple parks and attractions.

• Hawaii – Pearl Harbor National Memorial : This historic site commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor and provides a sad yet educational experience.
• Idaho – Sun Valley : Known for its world-class skiing and outdoor recreation opportunities, Sun Valley is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts.

• Indiana – Indianapolis Motor Speedway : Known as the “Brickyard,” this iconic racetrack hosts the Indianapolis 500 and offers a rich motorsport history.
• Iowa – Field of Dreams : This movie-inspired attraction allows visitors to step onto the baseball diamond and experience the magic of the film.

• Kentucky – Churchill Downs : Famous for the Kentucky Derby, this racetrack is a historic and exciting destination for horse racing fans.
• Louisiana – French Quarter, New Orleans : Known for its vibrant culture, music, and cuisine, the French Quarter is a unique and lively neighborhood.

• Maryland – Inner Harbor, Baltimore : It offers a mix of attractions, including the National Aquarium and historic ships, along with great dining and shopping.
• Massachusetts – Freedom Trail, Boston : A historic walking trail that connects 16 significant Revolutionary War sites, making history come alive.

• Minnesota – Mall of America : One of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes globally, it features an indoor amusement park and more.
• Mississippi – Vicksburg National Military Park : A historic Civil War site with monuments and a museum that educates visitors about this critical period in American history.

• Montana – Glacier National Park : Known for its stunning glacial-carved terrain and pristine wilderness, it’s a paradise for outdoor adventurers.
• Nebraska – Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium : One of the best zoos in the world, it offers a diverse range of animals and interactive exhibits.

• New Hampshire – Mount Washington Auto Road : Visitors can drive to the summit of Mount Washington, known for its extreme weather and panoramic views.
• New Jersey – Liberty State Park : Home to the Liberty Science Center, offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

• New York – Times Square, New York City : Known for its iconic neon lights and theaters, it’s the heart of the city’s entertainment district.
• North Carolina – Biltmore Estate : This grand estate features a stunning mansion, beautiful gardens, and a winery, offering a taste of the Gilded Age.

• Ohio – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland : Celebrating the history of rock and roll music, it’s a must-visit for music lovers.
• Oklahoma – Oklahoma City National Memorial : This solemn memorial honors the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing and offers a place for reflection.

• Pennsylvania – Gettysburg National Military Park : A significant Civil War battlefield, it offers a glimpse into one of America’s pivotal historical events.
• Rhode Island – The Breakers, Newport : A Gilded Age mansion, it’s a marvel of architecture and a glimpse into America’s elite past.

• South Dakota – Mount Rushmore National Memorial : Featuring the faces of four U.S. presidents, it’s a patriotic and iconic symbol of the nation.
• Tennessee – Great Smoky Mountains National Park : The most visited national park in the U.S., known for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

• Utah – Zion National Park : Renowned for its towering red rock formations and breathtaking canyons, it’s a paradise for hikers and outdoor lovers.
• Vermont – Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour : A popular destination for ice cream lovers, it offers a fun and tasty experience.

• Washington – Space Needle, Seattle : An iconic observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding natural beauty.
• West Virginia – New River Gorge National Park and Preserve : Known for its rugged terrain and outdoor adventure opportunities, including whitewater rafting.

• Wyoming – Yellowstone National Park : America’s first national park, known for geothermal wonders, wildlife, and stunning natural beauty.

Did you know?

So, even though it might receive less international attention than urban destinations, this natural wonder draws in more visitors than many famous city landmarks.

A little history:

Tourist attractions in the United States have a rich history dating back to the 19th century when the concept of leisure travel began to take hold. Landmarks like Niagara Falls, Yellowstone, and Yosemite captivated the imaginations of early travelers, leading to the establishment of national parks and the birth of American tourism.

The completion of transcontinental railroads in the late 1800s made it easier for people to explore the country, and this era saw the rise of destinations like Coney Island, a bustling amusement park, and Atlantic City, known for its boardwalk and casinos.

As the 20th century progressed, iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, and Disneyland became symbols of American culture and drew tourists worldwide.

Today, the U.S. boasts diverse attractions, from natural wonders to cultural landmarks, reflecting the nation’s ever-evolving history and the enduring appeal of its destinations.

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68 Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024 (Ultimate Bucket List)

Posted on Last updated: January 12, 2024

Home » USA Travel Inspiration » 68 Best Places to Visit in the USA in 2024 (Ultimate Bucket List)

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Working on your USA bucket list? Well, then you’ll love this list of the most mind-blowing places to visit in the USA!

Bustling cities, quaint towns, spectacular national parks, lively beaches, and out-of-this-world islands. America is a great country with incredible people and sights–that’s a fact.

While there are many popular places to travel in the US, there are a bunch of beautiful places equally impressive, but that doesn’t get as much of the bulk of the attention.

Well, that’s about to change. I’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in the USA in most states. How does that sound?

It was pretty challenging to keep a list of 68 places because the country is dotted with must-visit spots, and I wanted to make sure you were inspired about different types of destinations.

Still, I asked locals and travelers with personal experience who have spent years traveling to all corners of the United States. They told me below (some) of the best places to travel in the US, and I genuinely hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did (to be honest, I LOVED it!).

Also, I hope this article will sparkle your wanderlust and that you’ll add many of these places to your USA bucket list.

Table of Contents

How I Structured This USA Bucket List

To make it more organized, I divided this article into the best places to travel to in the US by category, so cities, towns, national parks, beaches, islands, and some other places and experiences. I hope you enjoy it!

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

Here are the best cities to travel to in the US in no particular order.

1. Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas , lacks professional sports teams but boasts sunny weather and celebrates Eeyore’s birthday annually.

As the capital and fourth-most populous city in Texas, Austin is renowned as the state’s most progressive, earning the nickname “Hippie Haven.”

Notable features include the only nude beach in Texas , which is a short day trip from Downtown , old-fashioned moonlight towers, and the largest urban bat colony in North America at Congress Avenue Bridge during spring and summer evenings.

While staying in Austin , be sure to hit up the Cathedral of Junk, grab a tour of all the highlights, sip some local beer , and don’t pass up an opportunity to indulge in a local culinary favorite: breakfast tacos–a must in any Austin itinerary !

If you’re more into nature, there are many hiking trails in Austin worth checking out, both throughout the city but also in nearby state parks . This can honestly be a super romantic things to do with your significant other , but it can also be a fantastic activity for those visiting Austin with kids .

Austin, with its unique charm, is a must on any USA bucket list, and the Museum of the Weird is a fascinating attraction to explore.

Things to do in Austin

• Check out the Congress Bridge Bats
• Take a swim in Barton Springs
• Stroll around Zilker Park
• Enjoy Live Music

Where to stay in Austin

Here’s a handy article about excellent Vrbos and Airbnbs in Austin , including lofts and townhouses.

You might also like: 11 Festive Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Austin

2. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is one of the oldest U.S. cities, dating back to 1630.

Rich in history, it played a pivotal role in Puritan settlement and the Revolutionary War.

Today, Boston is a top urban vacation spot, attracting around 19 million domestic and three million international tourists annually.

History enthusiasts can explore Faneuil Hall and other landmarks like The Paul Revere House, Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, Old South Meeting House, and Freedom Trail.

Beyond history, Boston is celebrated for its New England seafood and craft beers, making it an enjoyable destination for couples and visitors alike.

Things to do in Boston

• Wander around Boston Common and the Public Garden
• Catch a ball game at Fenway Park
• Take in the beautiful Steward Gardner Museum
• Walk the Freedom Trail

3. Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington, the urban heart of the Pacific Northwest, is a must for coffee lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and seafood aficionados.

Nestled in an ecologically diverse region with stunning beaches and mountains, Seattle offers the unique experience of sunbathing in the morning and skiing or mountain biking in the afternoon.

Harbor cruise tours provide a serene alternative for nature appreciation. Key attractions include the Seattle Space Needle, Fremont Troll, Gum Wall, and the Museum of Flight, with Kerry Park offering a picture-perfect view of the skyline.

Just like Boston on the East Coast, Seattle boasts outstanding seafood, particularly delectable oysters.

Whether you have one or three days in Seattle , don’t miss the chance to savor a cup of coffee at the original Starbucks in Pike Place Market.

Just for fun: posting any pictures of the city on Instagram? Check out here my favorite quotes about Seattle so you can use them in your captions!

Things to do in Seattle

• Shop and eat at Pike Place Market
• Climb the iconic Space Needle
• Be in awe at Chihuly Garden and Glass
• Join a harbor cruise tour

Where to stay in Seattle

I wrote a handy guide on exactly where to stay in Seattle to make your trip planning experience less overwhelming. I hope it helps!

4. Houston, Texas

Houston, Texas , the most populous city in the Southern United States and the country’s largest by area, is more than just a financial hub.

A weekend in Houston offers a taste of its vibrant and diverse atmosphere. The Houston Galleria, a four-story retail haven with 375 stores, is a must-visit, especially during Christmas .

For civic engineering enthusiasts, the seven-mile underground pedestrian tunnel links 95 blocks, 20 feet below the surface.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the city’s 337 parks with endless hiking trails , including the Houston Arboretum, and visit the Museum of Natural Science. There are also a bunch of pleasant state parks and beaches near Houston .

Popular tourist attractions include Old Market Square, Lee and Joe Jamail Skatepark, and the Space Center, ideal for those visiting with kids . Houston’s thriving food scene caters to every palate, from vegan gourmet to down-home BBQ.

Chinatown and the Mahatma Gandhi District offer diverse Asian flavors, while local beer, Houston breweries , and rooftop bars add to the culinary experience.

For a romantic dining experience , Houston boasts numerous romantic and rooftop restaurants .

Good to know: the best times to visit Houston are between February through April and September through November, when the weather is best.

Things to do in Houston

• Learn about the dark sky at Space Center Houston
• Grab something to eat at Chinatown
• Check out the Museum of Natural Science
• Stroll around Buffalo Bayou Park

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

Known for its vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans offers year-round excitement, making it an ideal romantic getaway in the US .

Rooted in French and Spanish influences, the city boasts unique culinary, cultural, and musical traditions. The motto “Laissez les bon temps rouler” reflects its lively spirit.

Enjoying the French Quarter’s ambience with live jazz and buskers is a tradition, with numerous restaurants to explore.

Art and history enthusiasts can visit the National World War II Museum, New Orleans Museum of Art, and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

Don’t miss touring the oldest cathedral in the US, St. Louis Cathedral, built in 1718. Plan your weekend trip between December and May to avoid the sweltering hurricane season from June to November .

Things to do in New Orleans

• Wander through the French Quarter
• Go bar hopping on Bourbon Street
• Take a Voodoo tour
• Fill up with Creole food

Where to stay in New Orleans

Oh, New Orleans! This bustling and colorful city has so much to offer, right? I know there is a lot to see, and you might be wondering what area would be best to stay so you can be near all the attractions. That’s why I wrote this super useful guide on where to stay in New Orleans . It has a nice summary of my favorite hotels in the city. I hope it’s useful to you!|

Read next: 15 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in New Orleans

6. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta , the seventh-most visited city in the United States , is a modern metropolis rooted in the South, nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

As Georgia’s most populated region, it features three distinct skylines: downtown, midtown, and the upscale district of Buckhead, often referred to as the Beverly Hills of Atlanta.

Downtown is a bustling commercial and retail hub, while midtown combines residential areas with vibrant clubs and restaurants .

Atlanta’s appeal as a top U.S. destination lies in attractions like the world’s largest aquarium, the Georgia Aquarium, as well as Legoland, Six Flags Over Georgia, numerous museums, and parks.

The city’s thriving lounge and club scene caters to diverse tastes, from honky-tonk to hip-hop. Atlanta is also known for its festivals, offering a variety of options to coordinate with your weekend trip .

Things to do in Atlanta

• Learn about ocean life at the Georgia Aquarium
• Take in the beautiful flora at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Check out Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Site
• Get curious at the World of Coca-Cola

Where to stay in Atlanta

I wrote this article with a short list of my favorite hotels in Atlanta, Georgia to help you plan a fantastic trip to the Big A. Still, if you’re visiting it with your S.O., you might want to read this other article about my favorite romantic getaways in the city .

7. Orlando, Florida

Orlando, a top global tourism destination, offers attractions like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, Legoland, Madame Tussauds, Universal Orlando, Fun Spot America, and the Kennedy Space Center.

With over 100 lakes offering recreational activities, Orlando is a diverse destination featuring family-friendly restaurants, golf courses, and outlet shopping malls.

The city’s vibrant theatre and live music scene, along with tourist-friendly nightlife, add to its appeal.

Visitors can easily find deals in Orlando and explore nearby beaches to experience the Sunshine State’s coastal beauty.

Things to do in Orlando

• Drink butter beer at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Have lots of fun at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
• Be in awe at Discovery Cove
• Have your dreams come true in the Magic Kingdom Park

8. San Francisco, California

San Francisco, among the most expensive yet charming cities in the country, boasts famous landmarks like the Painted Ladies, Pier 39, Lombard Street, and the iconic Golden Gate, the most famous bridge in America .

Ideal for architecture enthusiasts and those fond of old-timey throwbacks like the city’s trolley system, San Francisco also offers diverse museums covering modern art, science, and selfies.

Families can explore the Walt Disney Family Museum and the Exploratorium, while true crime enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Alcatraz tour . For couples, San Francisco provides a range of options for a fun date night , including wine bars , parks, and adventurous outings.

Despite California’s sunny reputation, San Francisco is cooler, with nighttime temperatures in June and July ranging between the mid-50s and mid-60s, so it’s wise to pack light sweaters.

Things to do in San Francisco

• Go on an Alcatraz tour
• Photograph the Golden Gate Bridge
• Check out the historic cable cars
• Say aww to the sea lions basking at Pier 39

9. San Diego, California

San Diego, known as America’s Finest City, should be on every USA bucket list. Enjoying great weather year-round, the city offers beautiful beaches, surfable waves, and stunning sunsets, making it an ideal vacation destination, even for just a day in San Diego .

Explore Balboa Park for museums and galleries, and visit the historic district with buildings dating back to the 1700s.

Seagoing enthusiasts can discover notable vessels at the San Diego Maritime Museum, including the Star of India. The iconic San Diego Zoo, renowned for its cageless exhibits, is a major tourist attraction.

For foodies, the Gaslamp Quarter is the place to be, offering Mexican cuisine and seafood, while Little Italy provides delightful Italian fare, especially if you’re planning on going on a fun date in San Diego .

After dining, take a stroll through the Midway Museum or Seaport Village for a perfect end to your day in San Diego.

Things to do in San Diego

• Check out the incredible equipment and airplanes at USS Midway Museum
• Don’t miss the cuties at San Diego Zoo
• Photograph the sea lions in La Jolla Cove
• Stroll around the Balboa Park

10. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, often called the Windy City, is situated along Lake Michigan and is a global attraction for its vibrant art scenes, distinctive architecture, cultural offerings, and excellent shopping.

Renowned as a focal point for 20th-century art and architecture, the city features works by Picasso, Chagall, and Frank Lloyd Wright.

Chicago is home to world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, housing diverse artworks spanning thousands of years in various media, including sculpture, painting, decorative arts, architectural drawings, and impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

For stunning views , visit Millennium Park in downtown Chicago, where the Cloud Gate sculpture reflects its surroundings and the nearby Crown Fountain projects images into flowing water, creating a unique visual experience.

Things to do in Chicago

• See why the Art Institute of Chicago is the only museum in the world to be top-ranked by TripAdvisor four years in a row
• Stroll around the Millennium Park
• Take a selfie in front of the Cloud Gate, aka The Bean
• Check out Chicago Architecture Center

11. Las Vegas, Nevada

For gambling enthusiasts, Las Vegas, Nevada, with its 30 flashy casinos on the main strip and numerous others on side streets, is the ultimate destination in the United States.

However, if gambling isn’t your preference, Las Vegas still offers a plethora of over-the-top experiences in the original “Sin City.”

From themed resorts like the Venetian to the French ambiance of Paris Las Vegas, the city is a glittering adult theme park.

Las Vegas is known for its extravagant options, with world-renowned chefs and opportunities for free food through deals and complimentary buffets.

The city also stands out with its never-ending entertainment choices and lively daytime pool parties, making it the perfect place for those ready to let loose and have fun.

Still, if you also want to enjoy the surroundings, consider going on a day trip to one of the many national parks near Las Vegas . You’ll be surprised at how many places you can visit near Las Vegas by car .

Things to do in Las Vegas

• Watch the show at the Fountains of Bellagio
• Hike at Red Rock Canyon
• Be in awe at the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden
• Be blinded by the lights at The Strip

12. Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte, North Carolina, once the fastest-growing city in the country in the aughts, has evolved into a world-class destination, making it a must-visit on any USA bucket list.

Home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers and the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, the city hosts major events like the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 and the Wells Fargo Golf Championship, with the NASCAR Hall of Fame catering to driving enthusiasts.

Cultural offerings include the renowned Charlotte Ballet, and for Renaissance festival enthusiasts, the Carolina Renaissance Festival operates in October and November.

Popular annual events like Taste of Charlotte, Moo and Brew Fest, and the Yiasou Greek Festival add to the vibrant scene.

Referred to as the Queen City, Charlotte boasts stellar restaurants, attracting foodies looking for a unique weekend getaway.

To avoid crowds, plan your visit between March and May or September and November, as summer tends to be the most crowded travel season in Charlotte.

Things to do in Charlotte

• Learn more about Billy Graham and his message of God’s love at Billy Graham Library
• Enjoy amazing artifacts, interactive exhibits, and simulator rides at NASCAR Hall of Fame
• Have lots of fun Carowinds
• Learn a bunch about science at Discovery Place Science

13. Washington, DC

Washington, DC, home to crucial buildings like the White House and Capitol, is a quintessential destination for Americans, attracting nearly 25 million tourists annually.

Allocate a day for exploring the monuments and consider educational double-decker city tours .

History enthusiasts can view the nation’s founding documents at the National Archives Museum. Notable annual events include the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring and July 4th celebrations in summer.

While Washington, DC, is beautiful year-round, it’s an excellent choice for winter and fall vacations in the US , offering a quieter experience without the crowds.

Things to do in Washington DC

• Photograph Lincoln Memorial
• Have an incredible and free experience at the National Gallery of Art
• Learn about wildlife at Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• Take a tour at the Library of Congress

14. New York, New York

New York City, famously known as “The Big Apple,” is a must on the USA bucket list, being arguably the most famous city globally.

Renowned for Broadway shows, it houses top museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, Guggenheim, MOMA, Whitney, and the Cloisters.

The city features iconic parks like Central Park, Prospect Park, and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Explore the diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique personality, from Harlem’s cultural roots to SoHo’s art enclave and the Upper West Side’s old-money stronghold.

New York offers a life-changing experience, and its incredible restaurants include the historic Lombardi’s in Little Italy, serving some of the best pizza.

With an impressive 38 eateries holding Michelin stars, New York promises a culinary delight. Bon appétit!

Things to do in New York City

• Take a stroll around Central Park
• Pay your respect at the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Climb the Empire States Building
• Experience one of the best museums in the world, the Metropolitan Museum of Art

15. Miami, Florida

Miami, one of the best vacation cities in the United States, boasts aqua waters, eclectic architecture, and a vibrant party vibe. Its golden-sand beaches are stunning, attracting a stylish crowd.

The city is an art hub with galleries lining palm-lined streets, hosting major international exhibits and festivals like Biennale.

Notable museums include the Pérez Art Museum Miami and The Bass, with science enthusiasts recommended to visit The Philip at Patricia Frost Museum of Science.

Miami’s legendary nightlife beckons, so don comfortable dancing shoes. Before hitting the night scene, fuel up at one of the incredible restaurants in Little Havana.

Things to do in Miami

• Hit the beach, I mean, it’s Miami baby
• Take in the beauty of Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Photograph the colorful Wynwood Walls
• Eat and drink at Bayside Marketplace

16. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia , stands out as one of the most beautiful places in the USA with cobblestone streets, manicured parks, and Victorian mansions.

A slightly more conservative cousin to New Orleans, Savannah shares a love for jazz, great food, and throwback architecture, offering a more buttoned-up and slower-paced atmosphere.

Situated on the Savannah River, the city was once a crucial port in early America, evident in landmarks like the oldest black church, First African Baptist (1777), and the third oldest synagogue, Mickve Israel (1735).

For incredible photos, explore Wormsloe Historic Site, Olde Pink House, Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, Owens-Thomas House, E Bryant Street (Rainbow Row), Forsyth Park, and the Historic District.

Savannah’s notable features include 22 squares, famous cemeteries, historic forts, and excellent shopping on Broughton and Bull Streets.

To experience the spookier side, take a Savannah Ghost Tour . Comfortable walking shoes are a must to explore the city’s stunning streets. Visiting in December? Savannah is a delightful place during Christmastime .

Things to do in Savannah

• Wander through Savannah Historic District
• Take in the gorgeous Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
• Relax at Forsyth Park
• Go on a Savannah Ghost Tour

Where to stay in Savannah

Savannah is easily among my favorite US cities! There are many hotels with exquisite architecture you can stay on, many of which are the perfect weekend getaway from Atlanta .

17. Portland, Oregon

“Keep Portland Weird” defines Oregon’s largest city, living up to its promise with quirky traditions like residents knitting for trees.

Nestled on the banks of the Willamette River and at the foothills of Mount Hood, Portland is a lush emerald city boasting 10,000 acres of public parks, including serene spots like the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden.

Explore Forest Park, one of the country’s most extensive urban forests, or visit landmarks like Old Town, Pioneer Square, and the iconic Portland Stag sign.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers miles of hiking trails and camping grounds, with Multnomah Falls, Portland’s scenic highlight, just 40 minutes away.

Urban dwellers can enjoy the vibrant Pearl District, buzzing with restaurants, cafes, shops, galleries, and theaters.

Don’t leave without trying Portland’s culinary stars: ice cream at Salt & Straw and a doughnut from Voodoo.

Things to do in Portland

• Smell the flowers at the International Rose Test Garden
• Don’t miss Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
• Walk the pathways at Portland Japanese Garden
• Check out Pittock Mansion

18. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio , my favorite city in the Lone Star State, is an ideal November destination. A weekend here involves romantic River Walk dining and exploring historical missions, a cherished activity in the Texas Hill Country .

While the infamous Alamo is a highlight, San Antonio boasts six historic missions collectively forming the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Mission San Jose stands out as the most crucial, offering an intact glimpse into the past with Native American living quarters, a church, workshops, and more.

My personal favorite, Mission Concepcion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the oldest unrestored mission in the country, featuring a frozen-in-time chapel.

A visit to the iconic Alamo, with its pivotal role in Texas history and associations with figures like James Bowie, Davy Crockett, and William Travis, completes the mission experience.

Things to do in San Antonio

• Savor Southern comfort food in a local restaurant
• Sip Texan beer in one of the breweries in town
• Enjoy warm days in a beach
• Or go on a day trip to a state park and discover many hiking trails in the region
• Stroll around a park in the city

Where to stay in San Antonio

The Alamo’s is located right downtown next to historic hotels and places to stay like The Menger and Crockett Hotel , or choose any of the many hotels on the River Walk . Like everywhere in Texas, you’ll need a car to get around because the missions are spread out across San Antonio.

Erin from Sol Salute

Read next: 16 Best National Park in Texas

19. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, the hub of the American film industry, is more than just wealth and glamour. Science enthusiasts can explore the La Brea Tar Pits, showcasing prehistoric fossils dating back 40,000 years.

For sun-seekers, Los Angeles offers beaches like Santa Monica, Malibu, Venice, Manhattan, and Hermosa—ideal for people-watching. The city boasts a wealth of museums, including the Grammy Museum, Natural History Museum, and the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Families can enjoy Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood, while those seeking a fun date can explore various options. For a glimpse into luxury living, Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive are must-visit destinations.

Keep an eye out for celebrities, but remember, approaching them for selfies may not be well-received.

Things to do in Los Angeles

• Take in the LA from Griffith Observatory
• Marvel at world-class art of the Getty Center
• Get ready for lots of fun at Universal Studios Hollywood
• Visit the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum

20. Nashville, Tennessee

Known as “Music City,” Nashville, Tennessee , is to country music as Los Angeles is to motion pictures. 

It’s home to the Country Music Hall of Fame, Johnny Cash Museum, Glen Campbell Museum, and the legendary Ryman Auditorium.

The Grand Ole Opry — America’s cathedral to gospel, country, and bluegrass — is also a Nashville staple.

In the mood for a gorgeous stroll? Head to the city’s 55-acre botanical garden.

If you’d rather walk and shop, make a beeline for the Gulch and 12th South, both neighborhoods are filled with locally owned boutiques and restaurants .

Good to know: Understand that you cannot buy liquor on Sundays in Nashville — and ice tea is called sweet tea.

Things to do in Nashville

• Tour the famous grand Ole Opry
• Have drinks at Ole Smoky Distillery & Yee-Haw Brewery
• Catch a concert at Ryman Auditorium
• Check out Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Where to stay in Nashville

If you’re spending more than one day in the city, here’s a guide on where to stay in Nashville that will get your hotel search started.

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Here are the best small towns to travel to in the US in no particular order.

21. Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas , a charming German town with deep roots (and restaurants ), might not be on every USA bucket list, but it’s on mine for its unique history.

Founded in 1846 and named after Prince Frederick of Prussia, it was a stronghold of Texas German, a dialect favored by Bavarian immigrants.

The city is a geographical marvel with notable rock formations like Enchanted Rock, Balanced Rock, and Cross Mountain. Known as the Peach Capital of Texas, Fredericksburg is a peach lover’s paradise.

Adding to its appeal, Fredericksburg boasts world-class wineries , making it a great destination for wine enthusiasts.

While staying in Fredericksburg , stock up on peaches and consider a wine tour , but avoid traveling between June and August due to the intense heat.

Things to do in Fredericksburg

• Sip Texan wine on a wine tour
• Learn about the town’s German roots
• Pay the National Museum of the Pacific War a visit
• Climb the Enchanted Rock

Where to stay in Fredericksburg

Good to know: while there are a bunch of incredible Airbnbs in Fredericksburg to enjoy a laid-back getaway, you’ll want to stay in one of these romantic cabins if you’re traveling with your significant other.

22. Stanley, Idaho

Most people associate Idaho with potatoes, but Stanley ranks as one of the best USA travel destinations for people who enjoy the outdoors. 

Gateway to the Sawtooth Mountain range and Salmon River, Stanley is where you go to enjoy the fresh air and incredible mountain views.

The hike to Alice Lake is the area’s most popular. Don’t forget to make sure your phone is charged before leaving because you’ll want snapshots.

Oh, and only 63 people live in Stanley. So go for the nature — not the nightlife.

Things to do in Stanley

• Go boating at Redfish Lake
• Hike from Iron Creek to Sawtooth Lake
• Check out Stanley Museum
• Don’t miss the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge

23. Breckenridge, Colorado

If you like to ski, add Breckenridge, Colorado, to your USA bucket list. The world-class resort and slopes attract visitors from around the world between November and April. So yeah, it’s a fantastic winter vacation in the US .

Summer in the region is also a good time, with hiking, fly-fishing, white-water rafting, and Lake Dillon boating on tap.

Fans of extreme sports should visit during the annual Winter Dew Tour, which draws a large crowd of XGame enthusiasts.

Also, remember that Colorado is a high-altitude region. If you have health conditions, consult with a doctor before booking a trip.

Things to do in Breckenridge

• Stroll around the Main Street and take in its beauty
• Hike to the Sapphire Point Overlook
• Drive the Boreas Pass Road
• Ski the slopes

24. Whitefish, Montana

Known as “Montana’s Outdoor Recreation Playground,” Whitefish, Montana, is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The area offers diverse activities such as fishing, boating, cycling, paddling, snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, llama trekking, and art classes capturing the state’s renowned “big sky.”

Downtown Whitefish features charming boutiques, and Glacier National Park provides stunning photo opportunities. Golfing and horseback riding are popular pastimes, weather permitting.

The optimal time to visit for sightseeing is between June and August, as fall and winter weather can be challenging.

Things to do in Whitefish

• Watch a performance at Alpine Theatre Project
• Grab a Espresso Martini at Spotted Bear Spirits
• Check out Whitefish Depot
• Hit the City Beach

25. Fairbanks, Alaska

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska is a must on any traveler’s USA bucket list. While some places in the lower 48 may offer glimpses, Alaska, particularly Fairbanks, boasts the most brilliant and vibrant displays.

Fairbanks, often overlooked by visitors, provides stunning views of the Northern Lights in the entire state. Keep in mind that the Aurora Borealis is visible from late August to mid-April, with the summer months offering almost 24 hours of daylight.

For the best experience, consider Murphy Dome, a locals’ favorite about 20 miles outside Fairbanks.

Although there’s no guarantee of a nightly show, they tend to be more active in the late night and early morning hours.

Apart from this natural wonder, Fairbanks offers plenty of unique activities. Explore local history at Pioneer Park, hike Angel Rocks, or unwind in the natural hot springs at Chena Hot Springs, surrounded by nature.

Fairbanks is also a three-hour drive from Denali National Park, home to over six million acres of untamed Alaskan nature and wildlife.

Christina Ropp from Littles, Life, & Laughter

Things to do in Fairbanks

• Watch the northern lights dancing in the sky
• Learn natural history at the University of Alaska Museum of the North
• Tour the Running Reindeer Ranch
• Discover all facets of Alaskan culture at Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

26. Leavenworth, Washington

Have you always wanted to visit a traditional Bavarian village? If so, vacation in Leavenworth, a quaint town in the shadow of the Cascade Mountains in west-central Washington State.

Leavenworth was modeled to resemble a German town. The structures are built in the old-fashioned Bavarian style, complete with wood balconies outside every window and towers galore.

Like many places in the Pacific Northwest, Leavenworth is known for its wealth of outdoor activities.

Horseback riding is big, as is hiking in the surrounding wild. There’s also a ski slope and cross-country trails for winter recreation.

Still, set aside an hour for the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum.

Things to do in Leavenworth

• Interact with reindeers at Leavenworth Reindeer Farm
• Breathe fresh air at Waterfront Park
• Walk around Front Street Park
• Sip some beer at Icicle Brewing Company

Where to stay in Leavenworth

Here are some hotels you’ll absolutely love, including some with Bavarian vibes.

27. Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis, Maryland, the state’s capital on the Chesapeake Bay, is often overlooked, but I consider it one of the top places to visit in the United States.

Known for its sailing culture, pristine beauty, and charming downtown with red cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and gaslamp street lights, Annapolis offers a picturesque setting.

Rich in history, the city features landmarks like the Banneker-Douglass Museum, Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley Memorial, United States Naval Academy Museum, Hammond–Harwood House, St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, and Thurgood Marshall Monument.

Additionally, Annapolis is renowned for its incredible seafood, especially crab, making it a delightful culinary destination.

Things to do in Annapolis

• Tour the U.S. Naval Academy
• Check out eateries and shops at Annapolis Historic District
• Learn more about history at Maryland State House
• Tour the historic house at William Paca House & Garden

28. Chincoteague, Virginia

Home of the Assateague horses, one of the few wild horse populations in the United States, Chincoteague offers a classic summer vacation vibe without the crushing crowds. In a word, Chincoteague is all about serenity.

During the summer, Chincoteague’s population swells somewhat as visitors flock in from across the country. But it’s never a massive crowd. 

People come for the beaches, ice cream parlors, miniature golf, cute restaurants, and a glimpse of the wild horses.

Beebe Ranch and the Museum of Chincoteague Island are also popular with tourists.

Things to do in Chincoteague

• Photograph the wild ponies at Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
• Check out the interactive exhibits at Museum of Chincoteague
• Sip local beer at Black Narrows Brewing
• Take a look at the oldest building on the island: Captain Timothy Hill House

29. Stowe, Vermont

If you appreciate the pastoral beauty of New England, Stowe, Vermont, might make your list of best places to visit in the USA.

Dubbed the “Ski Capital of the East,” Stowe is a classic alpine town, showcasing a charming village and ranking among the most idyllic places in the country.

Even if skiing isn’t your interest, Stowe is incredibly picturesque in fall and spring, with more affordable rates during these seasons.

Key attractions include Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa, Stowe Mountain Resort, Trapp Family Lodge, the Stowe Recreation Path, and the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum.

With visitors from all over coming for the slopes, Stowe boasts excellent restaurants, and indulging in fresh oysters, sourced from Chincoteague’s waters, is a culinary highlight.

Things to do in Stowe

• Go for a Stowe Recreation Path
• Ride the gondola to Mount Mansfield
• Photograph the Moss Glen Falls
• Experience New England in Smugglers Notch State Park

30. Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Broken Bow, Oklahoma, serves as the gateway to Hochatown State Park, Beavers Bend Resort Park, and Cedar Creek Golf Course, featuring the picturesque Broken Bow Lake.

The area offers abundant outdoor activities, including fly fishing, canoeing, paddleboarding, horseback riding, and kayaking.

Families can enjoy mini-golf courses and go-karting tracks, while gambling enthusiasts can explore legal gaming options in Broken Bow.

Nature enthusiasts can visit the Forest Heritage Center Museum, and for those seeking a challenge, nearby Hochatown offers a 29,000-square-foot wooden maze along with puzzle and escape rooms.

Things to do in Broken Bow

• Sip some wine in Girls Gone Wine
• Go fishing at Broken Bow Lake
• Relax at Beavers Bend Brewery
• Check out a variety of animals at Hochatown Petting Zoo

31. Hatteras, North Carolina

Hatteras, North Carolina, located in the famed Outer Banks, is renowned for its natural beauty and historical significance.

Visitors can enjoy wildlife watching, windsurfing, and fishing in Pamlico Sound, along with snorkeling and scuba diving around the area’s shipwrecks. Additionally, beach lounging and mini-golf are popular pastimes.

It’s essential to note that Hurricane season in the Outer Banks spans from June to November, so travelers planning a visit during this period should consider obtaining travel insurance.

Things to do in Hatteras

• Hit the beach at Cape Hatteras National Seashore
• Climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
• Check out the absurd amount of shells at Frisco Beach
• Go on a turtle patrol program at Hatteras Island Ocean Center

32. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a charming small town, deserves a spot on your USA bucket list with its exciting activities and attractions.

Often overshadowed by Philadelphia, Bethlehem offers plenty to explore, especially during Christmas, earning its title as the Christmas City.

The festive season brings highlights like Christmas markets. The town features attractions such as the Hoover Mason Trestle, National Museum of Industrial History, Musikfest, Apollo Grill, Fegley’s Brew Works, and 1741 on the Terrace.

Despite its history and the shift from its primary industry, Bethlehem thrives as a vibrant and appealing destination, catering to those seeking relaxation, outdoor fun, or a love for history.

Things to do in Bethlehem

• Book a tour at the SteelStacks
• Learn history at Hoover Mason Trestle
• Hear about Bethlehem steel history at National Museum of Industrial History
• Experience the town’s religious community at Moravian Museum

33. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island, stands out as a top travel destination in the USA, offering a plethora of activities. Whether you’re into historical and food tours or sailing and mansion tours , Newport has diverse options.

Situated by the sea, the city boasts a rich history, making it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts. Mansion tours and sailing adventures, including private yacht charters and romantic cruises, are must-tries.

With its abundance of history, Newport promises endless exploration, ensuring each visit brings something new to discover.

Things to do in Newport

• Tour the Breakers
• Hike the scenic 3.5-mile Cliff Walk
• Learn about history at the Elms
• Take in the dramatic views along Ocean Drive

34. Page, Arizona

Page, Arizona, though small, is a must-visit on your USA bucket list, boasting some of the Southwest’s most stunning sights. Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon are iconic attractions in the town.

From Page, enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Powell and the expansive Glen Canyon Dam, among the largest in the US.

Despite its size, Page offers numerous outdoor adventures, diverse dining experiences, and captivating landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Things to do in Page

• Take a selfie at Horseshoe Bend
• Go on a boat tour at Lake Powell
• Discover the Antelope Canyon
• Tour Glen Canyon Dam

Best National Parks to Visit in the USA

Here are the best national parks to travel to in the US in no particular order.

35. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is a must on your USA bucket list! Established in 1872, it’s the oldest national park and offers something for everyone.

Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Lamar Valley for bison, grizzly bears, wolves, and more. Geology enthusiasts will appreciate fantastic formations and hot springs, including Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone .

Photographers shouldn’t miss the breathtaking Grand Prismatic Lake. Avoiding summer holidays is recommended to escape traffic jams and enhance wildlife sightings.

Things to do in Yellowstone

• Take in the beauty of Grand Canyon
• Be in awe at the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring
• See wildlife at Lamar Valley
• Watch as the Old Faithful Geyser erupts

Leona from Wandermust Family

36. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is a top destination on many USA bucket lists, and hiking offers a superior experience compared to observation decks.

Trails allow hikers to explore around or descend into the canyon, offering unique and panoramic views. Research different hikes for varied views and difficulty levels, and plan during spring or fall for optimal weather.

Bring sufficient water and sun protection to prevent dehydration and overheating, common causes of hiking-related incidents.

Assess your fitness level, as descending is easier than ascending. With caution and preparation, your Grand Canyon hiking experience will be truly amazing.

Things to do in Grand Canyon

• Hike the Bright Angel Trail
• Discover the South Kaibab Trail
• Take in the sweeping views from the South rim
• Photograph the dramatic landscape at the north rim

Serena from Serenas’ Lenses

37. Death Valley National Park, California

Include Death Valley National Park in your Southwest road trip for a thrilling drive through the lowest point in North America.

Despite being one of the hottest places globally, it offers diverse landscapes, historical sites, and natural wonders.

Witness bright salt deposits, colorful lava formations, and striated rock faces. The valley hosts traces of early pioneers, prospectors, and miners.

Don’t miss Zabriskie Point’s breathtaking views of the Badlands’ pastel-hued rock formations.

Ensure you have ample water, a paper map, and a full tank of fuel, as GPS signals may be unreliable. Keep the air-con off to prevent engine overheating.

Things to do in the Death Valley

• Take in the view from Dante’s View
• Watch the sunset from Zabriskie Point
• Experience Badwater basin, the lowest point in North America
• Hike tot he top of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes

Suzanne Jones at The Travelbunny

38. Acadia National Park, Maine

It would be best if you considered visiting Acadia National Park, located in Maine. It is among the most beautiful national parks in the eastern US, and it showcases the Maine Coast’s beauty perfectly. 

There are several miles of biking and hiking trails on Acadia , and if you prefer sailing and kayaking, there is easy coastal access.

There are many different ways to spend your time at the national park, but ensure you spend at least two days. This way, you get to fully enjoy everything that the park has to offer and take in its beauty. 

If you wanna catch a sunrise, you will enjoy watching the most breathtaking sunrise at Cadillac Mountain.

The view combined with the sunset is pretty stunning since you will see all the islands dotting the coast. 

If you would like to visit some of the most famous attractions in the park, such as Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, and Sandy Beach, drive through the park loop road. This place is worth adding to your USA bucket list.

Things to do in Acadia

• Hike to Cadillac Mountain’s summit
• Road trip the Park Loop Road
• Watch the sunset at Jordan Pond
• Cool off at Sand Beach

Where to stay in Acadia

The Blackwoods is a an excellent camping spot with running water and toilets. On the downside, they don’t have showers on site, only down the road.

39. Arches National Park, Utah

Explore the wonders of Arches National Park in Utah, a top-notch destination in the US. Hike through Devil’s Garden to witness impressive arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch.

Experience stargazing and dark skies by visiting the park after sunset. With over 2,000 sandstone arches, Arches offers diverse landscapes, including mountain peaks, petrified dunes, and rock spires.

Beyond hiking, it’s a prime spot for mountain biking. If you love the outdoors, make sure to include Arches National Park in your travel plans, and discover additional scenic spots across Utah after your exploration.

Things to do in Arches

• Take a photo at the Delicate Arch
• Hike to the Double Arch
• Get to Fiery Furnace on a tour
• Take in the sweeping views from the Windows

Read next: Utah National Parks Road Trip

40. Glacier National Park, Montana

Include Glacier National Park in your U.S. travel itinerary for a breathtaking experience. Marvel at glaciers, waterfalls, two mountain ranges, and over 700 lakes.

Hiking enthusiasts can choose from a variety of trails , ranging from challenging routes like Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier to easy options like Rocky Point.

The park offers activities for all seasons, from fishing and canoeing in summer to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.

Wildlife sightings, including elk, bears, and moose, add to the park’s allure. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes while engaging in diverse activities, such as driving along Lake McDonald and spending time at its beach.

Things to do in Glacier

• Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Hike to the Grinnell Glacier
• Relax at Lake McDonald
• Enjoy the scenery at Logan Pass

41. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Just a two-hour drive from Seattle and Portland, Mount Rainier captivates visitors year-round with its natural beauty.

Summer offers vibrant meadows adorned with colorful wildflowers for hiking enthusiasts. In the fall, snow-free lakes and berry-laden trails provide a picturesque setting.

For those preferring a more leisurely experience, a scenic drive through the park reveals stunning views of lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and the chance to spot wildlife.

Things to do in Mount Rainier

• Take in the views of Mount Rainier
• Challenge yourself at the Skyline Trail
• Photograph the scenic Paradise Valley
• Hike the Mt. Fremont Lookout Trail

42. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Add Rocky Mountain National Park to your USA bucket list for a breathtaking experience in Colorado .

A day trip from Denver provides easy access, with various small towns around for accommodation options based on your budget. Having a car is recommended for convenient exploration.

The park boasts numerous vista points, each offering hiking trails suitable for all levels. Whether you prefer challenging or easy, long or short hikes, there’s something for everyone.

If hiking isn’t your preference, the spectacular scenery at vista points, along with attractions like Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, and Grand Lake, ensures a memorable visit.

Things to do in Rocky Mountain

• Road trip the Trail Ridge Road
• Walk around Bear Lake
• Hike the Emerald Lake Trail
• Picnic at Sprague Lake

43. Sequoia National Park, California

Sequoia National Park , a must on any US bucket list, sits in California alongside Kings Canyon National Park, hosting the planet’s largest trees.

While redwoods claim height, sequoias reign in size, notably in the Giant Forest region. The Congress Trail offers an easy hike, featuring the colossal General Sherman Tree and other giants like the President Tree.

Round Meadow provides a scenic stroll amid notable sequoias, and at dusk, black bears often forage. Explore tunnel log for a unique walk and the Giant Forest Museum for insightful displays.

Summer is popular, so book campsites or lodges well in advance, and shuttle buses simplify travel.

Things to do in Sequoia

• Pose next to General Sherman Tree, a 250-foot ancient tree
• Walk up 400 steps to spectacular views at Moro Rock Trail
• Visit Boyden Cavern
• Hike the Congress Trail

James Ian from Parks Collecting

44. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Explore Joshua Tree National Park , a captivating addition to your US bucket list. A two-day trip from LA, it offers unique desert landscapes and vibrant Joshua trees.

Hiking highlights include Lost Horse Mine, blending Joshua trees with gold mining history, and Lost Palms Oasis, home to distinctive fan palm trees.

For gentler walks, discover Cholla Cactus Garden, Jumbo Rocks, Hall of Horrors, and Hidden Valley. Plan ahead, as the park lacks shops or restaurants – bring ample water, food, and emergency supplies for a day of exploration.

Things to do in Joshua Tree

• Trek the Lost Palm Oasis Trail
• Photograph the Skull Rock
• Check out Cholla Cactus Garden
• Take in the wildflowers

Michael from Michael Turtle

45. Zion National Park, Utah

Explore the stunning Zion National Park in Utah, with a must-try adventure: hiking the challenging Angels Landing route .

Spanning 5 miles with a 1,488-foot elevation, it’s not for the faint-hearted. Best tackled in summer or fall, the park’s shuttle bus conveniently transports you to the trailhead.

While Scout Lookout offers fantastic views for those with a fear of heights, reaching the top requires courage due to sheer drops and a narrow pathway. The use of chains is advised.

Once at the summit, savor breathtaking views, making it a highlight of your USA travel experience.

Things to do in Zion

• Challenge yourself at The Narrows
• Venture out on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
• Take in the dramatic views at the end of Canyon Overlook Trail
• Hike the demanding Angel’s Landing

Zoe from Together in Transit

Best Beaches to Visit in the USA

Here are the best beaches to travel to in the US in no particular order.

46. Key West, Florida

Discover the vibrant and free-spirited Key West, a top destination in the US. Enjoy unique culinary experiences, deep-sea fishing, and relaxing on local beaches.

It’s an ideal spot for a fantastic beach vacation and a favorite spring break destination .

Explore historical sites and traditional homes, and if you’re on a road trip, make a stop at Bahia Honda State Park for one of the world’s most incredible beaches.

Key West promises a delightful stay with numerous activities and attractions.

Things to do in Key West

• Snorkel in turquoise waters
• Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
• Don’t miss the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
• Check out butterflies at Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

47. Kailua Beach, Hawaii

Out of all the beaches found in Big Island, Kailua ranks as the second most beautiful beach. 

If you are looking for incredible places to visit in the US and enjoy beach vacations, visiting Kailua should be on top of your list. This place has white and soft powder sand, and the water is turquoise blue.

Enjoying yourself at the beach does not get any better than being at Kailua, and other than the beautiful white sand and turquoise water, its stretch is two and a half miles long. 

The beach has three separate parking lots, the first one being for windsurfing sports and a launching spot for kites. The second connects to the main beach spot, and the third has a boat ramp.

You can take your family out on the beach since the park grounds have picnic tables, beach showers, and bathroom facilities.

This is pretty convenient, and it is also worth mentioning that they have a few lifeguards who ensure ocean safety and may answer any questions you have.

Things to do in Kailua Beach

• Bask in the sun
• Be adventurous and go windsurfing
• Picnic with your family
• Watch the sunset

Where to stay in Kailua

The Four Seasons Resort is my all-time fave because of the ocean views, wonderful pools, and many amenities. Thank me later!

Read next: Best Beaches in Hawaii

48. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Escape your routine and embrace the tranquility of Folly Beach, South Carolina—a laid-back, family-friendly haven near downtown Charleston.

Ideal for year-round enjoyment, it caters to those who appreciate a relaxed beach lifestyle, fishing enthusiasts, and surfing aficionados.

Indulge in diverse activities like paddleboarding, photography, sailing, and kayaking. Dive into the local scene with live music, a fantastic pier, and a variety of bars and restaurants.

Extend your getaway to bask in the soothing breeze and ocean waves for a few delightful days.

Things to do in Folly Beach

• Have breakfast at Lost Dog Café
• Take in the view of Morris Island Lighthouse
• Rent a stand-up paddleboard
• Lunch with oceanfront views at BLU Beach Bar

49. Sand Beach, Maine

Include Sand Beach, Maine in your USA bucket list. It features unique shell fragments, accessible amenities, and a captivating view.

Explore the popular hiking trail for spectacular beach views and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coast of Maine.

Located in Acadia National Park, Sand Beach sits in a small inlet between Mount Desert Island’s rocky shores and granite mountains.

Accessible via Park Loop Road, it is a must-visit point of interest on the Island.

Things to do in Sand Beach

• Hike your way to the beach
• Relax on the sand
• Take a swim, but be careful as the water is very cold
• Stargaze with your significant other

50. El Matador Beach, California

Explore El Matador Beach in California, one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Enjoy picturesque views from picnic tables overlooking the Pacific Ocean, especially popular for photographers capturing breathtaking sunsets and unique sea stacks.

Explore the north side with arches and caves (avoid during high tide) or head to the tranquil south side with stunning homes for a peaceful getaway and photo opportunities.

Things to do in El Matador Beach

• Photograph the dramatic cliffs
• Picnic on the sand
• Stroll along the water
• Snorkel and experience the colorful world under water

51. Shi Shi Beach, Washington

Enjoy a variety of adventures on Washington’s Shi Shi Beach, featuring beach walking and rainforest hiking.

Ideal for backpacking or a one-day hike, you can extend your journey to the Hole in the Wall or the Ozette Loop Hike.

Check the tide chart for safety, especially if heading south past the arches where tides can be high.

The beach provides amenities like restrooms and parking, but be aware that night parking and day parking have separate lots, and there’s no RV parking available. 

Things to do in Shi Shi Beach

• Camp at the beach
• Photograph the majestic landscape
• Take in the sunset

Where to stay in Shi Shi Beach

You can camp on the beach and wake up to the fantastic ocean view.

52. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Visit Cannon Beach in Oregon for a stunning escape. It’s one of the best travel destinations in the USA, featuring beautiful coastline views, dramatic rock formations, and luxurious beachfront lodgings .

Experience puffins nesting on Haystack Rock, elk grazing in coastal meadows, and colorful sea stars adorning the rocks.

Take in this beauty through hikes or relaxed moments on the sand. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful places globally, Cannon Beach offers marine life sightings during low tides.

Explore local art galleries and try out restaurants to complete your visit.

Things to do in Cannon Beach

• Sip brews at Pelican Brewery
• See cute puffins at Haystack Rock
• Go whale watching off the coast

53. Waikiki Beach, Oahu

Waikiki Beach is a must on your USA bucket list. Considered a top tourist destination, it boasts a long oceanfront stretch with golden sand, backed by hotels and retail establishments in Honolulu, on Oahu island.

Apart from the scenic view, enjoy activities like surfing, dining, and shopping.

Whether solo, with a partner, friends, or family, Waikiki offers all comforts amidst the Pacific Ocean on a tropical island, making it a worthwhile visit.

Things to do in Waikiki

• Take surfing lessons
• Take a swim in the calm waters
• Bask in the sun while people watching
• Dine with beach views at one of the restaurants or food stalls in the area

Best Islands to Visit in the USA

Here are the best islands to travel to in the US in no particular order.

54. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai in Hawaii is among the best places to visit in the United States, often referred to as the Garden Island.

It distinguishes itself through its natural beauty, with a rule limiting building height to the palm of a coconut to preserve the pristine beaches.

Inland, explore Wailua River State Park and Koke’e State Park. Overall, Kauai stands out as one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the United States.

Things to do in Kauai

• Relax by the beach
• Check out Opaekaa Falls
• Hike in the Waimea Canyon State Park
• Take a helicopter tour on Na Pali Coast

55. South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island, Texas , is an ideal travel destination with endless activities and attractions.

Whether planning or spontaneous, enjoy live music, diverse restaurants, fishing, bird watching, and water sports.

Family-friendly, it’s renowned for white sandy beaches, clear Gulf waters, and calm weather, offering a perfect tropical vacation experience year-round.

Clean beaches and excellent weather make it a unique tropical paradise in Texas, catering to both laid-back and adventurous vacations.

Things to do in South Padre Island

• Go bird watching
• Try some fishing
• Enjoy live music
• Do absolutely nothing by the beach and just enjoy yourself 

56. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod in Massachusetts is an excellent place to visit in the USA for tropical vacation enthusiasts. Enjoy the best seafood, sandy beaches, and charming beach towns.

Explore diverse activities like trying local cuisine, relaxing on sandy beaches, visiting lighthouses, or hiking scenic trails.

Customize your vacation based on preferences, but note the short swimming season and plan accordingly to make the most of your visit.

Things to do in Cape Cod

• Have some delicious seafood
• Visit the iconic lighthouse
• Go hiking around the island
• Weather-permitting, go swimming

57. Florida Keys, Florida

Experience a Caribbean vibe without leaving the U.S. by visiting the Florida Keys, a short drive from Key West and Miami.

Enjoy a scenic road trip with great food, vibrant architecture, and beautiful beaches.

Don’t miss trying the famous Key lime pie, visiting the Ernest Hemingway House, exploring Duval Street, and engaging in water activities like swimming, scuba diving, or snorkeling.

Savor a drink, soak in the stunning views, and capture memories with beautiful pictures during your visit to the Florida Keys.

Things to do in Florida Keys

58. big island, hawaii.

Dreaming of a trip to the USA? Consider adding a helicopter tour around Hawaii’s Big Island to your bucket list.

Experience breathtaking views, lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and the unique opportunity to fly around an active volcano, witnessing flowing lava beneath you.

I’ve personally experienced it in the stunning Big Island and highly recommend this unforgettable two-hour tour for a once-in-a-lifetime experience during your visit to Hawaii.

Pro Tip: Wear dark-colored clothing to minimize window reflections.

Things to do on Big Island

• Take a helicopter tour around Hawaii
• Scuba dive in Kona to see the manta rays
• Visit a coffee farm
• Visit Volcanoes National Park

Claire from Curious Claire

59. Mount Desert Island, Maine

Mount Desert Island in Maine is renowned for being a summer feeding ground for whales, making it arguably the most beautiful spot in New England.

Accessible by flying or driving (though driving is challenging), the island offers the added bonus of proximity to other attractions like Acadia National Park.

Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and watersports, creating an experience so immersive that returning to reality becomes a reluctant thought.

Things to do on Mount Desert

• Discover Acadia National Park
• Partake in watersports
• Photograph Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
• Go shopping in Downtown Bar Harbor

60. Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii, stands out as one of the most beautiful places in the US, often overlooked for its rich offerings beyond tourist attractions and beaches.

In a 3-day visit , explore Honolulu’s diverse cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture. From the best Asian dishes to traditional Hawaiian food, savor delicious meals.

Explore Honolulu further by visiting Pearl Harbor, hiking, or relaxing at Waikiki Beach. Venture beyond to discover the North Shore, Polynesian Cultural Center, Dole Plantation, and Kualoa Ranch.

For a tropical vacation experience, simply head to the beach, dip your feet in the sand, and enjoy the stunning view.

Things to do in Oahu

• Take a tour at Dole Plantation
• Learn about history at Pearl Harbor
• Don’t miss the famous Lanikai Beach
• Visit the iconic USS Arizona Memorial

Other Incredible Places to Visit in the USA

Here are the best places to travel to in the US in no particular order.

61. Havasu Falls, Arizona

Havasu Falls in Northern Arizona is a breathtaking paradise, accessible through a challenging 10-mile hike in a desolate desert canyon.

The 80-foot turquoise-blue waterfall flows through red sandstone walls, with a campground shaded by trees near the river.

Freshwater springs provide drinking water, and numerous pools and swimming holes create an oasis in the desert.

While Havasu Falls is the most famous, there are five waterfalls in total, including Mooney Falls reached through a steep cave, and the tiered Beaver Falls downstream.

Havasu Canyon continues to the Grand Canyon’s confluence with the Colorado River, making it my favorite among stunning US locations. If it’s not on your bucket list, it definitely should be!

Things to do in Havasu Falls

• Swim in the turquoise waters
• Take in the views while you’re grateful of such beauty
• Be prepared to take lots of photos
• Have a picnic there (remember to take all your trash back with you)

Where to stay near Havasu Falls

Havasu Canyon is owned and managed by the Havasupai Tribe, and camping reservations are limited to 300 people per day. You’ll need to plan well in advance if you want to visit this surreal location.

Camping permits for the entire year go on sale February 1st and sell out within a few hours. Lodge reservations go on sale in June of each year and similarly sell out almost immediately.

Nick from Wandering Wheatleys

62. Disney World, Florida

Disney World in Florida is a must-visit on your USA bucket list. Although not a city, it’s a world-famous theme park and a favorite vacation spot for families.

When in Orlando, make sure to experience Disney World, where you can meet beloved characters, ride roller coasters, get autographs, and witness scenes from Disney movies.

Ideal for those who grew up with Disney or have young children, the park offers a plethora of activities and attractions, ensuring a fantastic time for all.

While Disney World is not exactly a city, it is still a must-see and experience place in the USA.

Things to do at Disney World

• Ride the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
• Take an indoor cruise through the scenes of Pirates of the Caribbean
• Enjoy the Enchanted Tiki Room, Country Bear Jamboree musical show
• Walk the informative Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail and Maharajah Jungle Trek

63. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Antelope Canyon in Arizona is among the best and uniquely beautiful places to visit in the USA.

This famous slot canyon, located just 15 minutes from Page, features red and orange rock formations that create stunning light beams due to its “V” shape.

To visit, sign up for a tour, pay a fee to the Navajo people, and explore the canyon for 1-1 1/2 hours. While popular and not secluded, witnessing the canyon’s beauty is worth it.

For a less crowded experience, consider visiting Lower Antelope Canyon, just 10 minutes away from the Upper Canyon.

Although lacking light beams, Lower Antelope Canyon is still picturesque, adventurous, and often less crowded, providing an enjoyable alternative.

Regardless, Antelope Canyon is a natural wonder and a must-see in the Southwest of the USA.

Things to do in Antelope Canyon

• Take a walking tour in the antelope canyon
• Take as many photos as possible
• See the famous Horseshoe Bend
• Take in the views of Lake Powell

Jessica from Unearth the Voyage

64. Big Sur, California

Include a drive along the Big Sur Coast in your Northern California visit. Stretching over 60 miles between Carmel and Ragged Point, it offers some of the most scenic Pacific Coast Highway views.

Allocate several hours to explore highlights, starting from Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

Visit Point Lobos State Reserve for stunning ocean views and ancient cypress trees on your California road trip . Continue to Garrapata State Park for wilderness trails and a sandy beach.

Don’t miss the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge and the picturesque McWay Falls. For the best views, drive from north to south along the water, enjoying the breathtaking coastline.

Things to do in Big Sur

• Spot birds at Point Lobos State Reserve
• Relax in a white-beach at Garrapata state Park
• Photograph Bixby Creek Bridge
• Hike the East Molera Trail

Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

65. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

Lake Tahoe, straddling Nevada and California near Yosemite National Park, stands out as one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the United States.

With crystal-clear water, the lake offers both water and land activities, including swimming, SUP, hiking, and serene moments to appreciate the surroundings.

Summer is ideal for a visit, but winter provides a stunning view framed by snow, perfect for skiing.

Whether seeking outdoor adventure or peaceful retreat, Lake Tahoe is an excellent choice year-round.

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

• Tour the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion
• Look for wildflowers in the summer
• Take the aerial tram to High Camp
• Hike the Shirley Canyon Trail

66. Route 66

Driving Route 66 is a top experience for any USA bucket list. This iconic 2,448-mile route passes through nine diverse states, offering a unique perspective of America beyond typical tourist cities.

Along the way, explore quirky neon-filled towns, historical cities, abandoned ghost towns, and national parks like Petrified Forest and the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

Stay at smaller motels to connect with the locals and support the route. For a fulfilling road trip, take your time—three weeks is ideal for the entire journey.

Use guidebooks to navigate and avoid Interstates, as it can get complicated with a Sat Nav.

67. Napa Valley, California

Include Napa Valley, California, on your USA bucket list, especially if you love wine.

This picturesque region, known as Northern California’s wine country, offers a relaxing getaway with delicious sips, vineyards set amidst rolling hills, charming boutiques, and small towns.

Stay in various accommodations and indulge in wine tasting and vineyard tours .

While Napa Valley offers diverse activities, sipping and relaxing amid the scenic surroundings should be your primary focus.

Things to do in Napa Valley

• Take a train ride
• Eat your through the Napa Valley
• See the famous geyser
• Visit wineries that offer more than wine

68. Bluebonnet Trail, Texas

Experience the beauty of the Bluebonnet Trail in Texas at least once, ideally during spring when Indian paintbrushes and bluebonnets adorn the Hill Country.

With over 40 miles of mapped driving trails near Ennis, you’ll enjoy a fantastic view. Blooming times vary, but early April is often ideal.

Plan ahead to ensure you don’t miss this mesmerizing experience. If you love the outdoors, add exploring the Bluebonnet Trail to your USA bucket list.

Wrapping Up on Your USA Bucket List

Creating a USA bucket list with fewer than 1,000 places and experiences was a rather challenging task. After all, America is filled with some of the most incredible cities, towns, and outdoor areas on the planet!

Still, I did a pretty good job of showing what each state has to offer. But don’t limit yourself—there’s much more to be seen and epic best places to visit in the USA.

What places would you add to this list? Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments! I’d love to hear from you!

Did you enjoy this article about the most beautiful places in the USA? Then share it with a friend who might enjoy it too!

Dee Treloar

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

I'm looking to see West Virginia and Kentucky to complete my USA bucket list. Can you help!

Thursday 6th of April 2023

No doubt all of these are the best places to explore in the USA. I will explore these places one by one. First of all, I will explore NYC through taking the cherry blossom in nyc.

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Hi please update this list. Austin does have a sports team. Austin FC. It began playing in 2021. I know it's not one of the big 4 sports, but in Austin, we are very proud and have qualified for the CONCACAF champions league ahead of the biggest teams in the continent. We sold out all 36 games in our first season, the longest streak out of ANY other US team.

Monday 22nd of August 2022

I hope to visit one of this places in usa

Monday 16th of May 2022

This site was cooler than I thought.

• 50 States Attractions Map

USA Attractions Map

The United States attractions map below show the top 10 attractions in 50 States. Click the map to explore the best travel spots in each State.

33 Most Visited Places in the United States 

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

It’s no secret that the United States is packed with popular places. From coast to coast, you’ll find a wide variety of sites brimming with excitement. Most of them are world-famous, meaning you’ve probably heard of them before, but you might find a few unfamiliar.  

From tourist attractions and historical buildings to US national parks and famous destinations, this roundup of the most visited places in the United States has a little bit of everything. 

33 Most Visited Places in the United States

It’s time to take a tour of the most popular places people pay a visit to in the US. How many have you already been to? 

1. Times Square, New York

Image from James Ting on Unsplash

Times Square in NYC is one of the most visited destinations in the US -– as well as the whole world. This commercial junction connects Broadway, Seventh Avenue, and 42nd Street (one of the most famous streets in New York ) — other very popular areas in the city. It’s an entertainment hub stuffed full of shops, eateries, and theatres. 

Times Square is well known for its towering buildings lined with billboards; they illuminate the whole area and dazzle at night. It’s one of the most energetic and beautiful places in NYC . 

You might enjoy reading my posts about the Warmest US States in Winter , Warm Places to visit in January in the USA , Warm Winter Getaways in the USA , Most Shark Infested Beaches in the USA , World Heritage Sites in the US , Sunny Places to Visit in the USA , Snowiest Cities in the United States and tourist attractions on the drive from New York to Florida.

2. Central Park, New York

Image from michal dziekonski on Unsplash

You can’t visit the Big Apple and not see Central Park. This sprawling green space is synonymous with the city, and it’s been that way for a long time. It’s one of the most historical places in NYC . The park opened in 1858, and it’s been attracting outdoor enthusiasts ever since.

The park is bigger than the principality of Monaco. It’s dotted with attractions and facilities. With lakes, ponds, statues, monuments, carriage rides, and thousands of benches, it provides the full park experience. Grab a coffee from a nearby cafe and enjoy a leisurely walk through one of the world’s most famous parks. 

3. Niagara Falls, New York

Image from Mohan Nannapaneni on Pexels

Niagara Falls is the name of a city and a vast waterfall that straddles the border of New York state and Canada. It’s one of the most popular cascades in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. 

There are lots of fun ways to explore this outdoor area. If you visit Niagara Falls State Park, you can see the Observation Tower and view the 3 other waterfalls in that area: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and a section of Horseshoe Falls. There are also trails you can take to different viewpoints. Don’t miss my complete article on how to see Niagara Falls from the United States side.

Tip: To see the falls up close, take a Maid of Mist boat tour.  

4. Washington Union Station, Washington D.C.

Image from Caleb Fisher on Unsplash

Washington Union Station is a popular train station and transportation hub located in Washington, D.C. It opened in 1908 and featured elegant architecture with gleaming marble and soaring ceilings. 

This building had to undergo major restorations in the 1980s, but the original character of the station was preserved. It’s worth checking out for the architecture and design alone, but if that’s not something you fancy, you can visit countless shops and eateries too. 

5. National Mall and Memorial Park, Washington, D.C

Image from Paula Nardini on Pexels

National Mall and Memorial Parks contain many Washington D.C. landmarks . Some of the most popular include the Washington Monument, the World War One Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site. 

These attractions represent some of the United States’ most significant events and people. They honour the bravery and sacrifices of those who have served their country. It’s one of the best places to learn about America. 

6. White House, Washington D.C.

Image from Aaron Kittredge on Pexels

The White House is one of the world’s most famous landmarks . Located in the nation’s capital, at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, it’s the official workplace and residence of the president of the US. It has housed every single commander-in-chief since John Adams took office in 1800.

The construction of this grand building lasted from 1792 to 1800. Although, over the years, it’s gone through quite a few refurbishing and expansion projects. 

Fun Fact: The White House contains 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, 28 fireplaces, and 8 staircases.

7. Grand Canyon, Arizona

Image from Ignacio Palés on Pexels

Arizona’s Grand Canyon is one of the most mesmerising products of Mother Nature. This natural formation shows off millions of years of geological history. This Arizona landmark is enormous in scale; it’s even bigger than the entire state of Rhode Island. 

Pictures just don’t do this place justice; it’s the site you must see and experience for yourself.  Spend the day hiking and taking in the jaw-dropping sights. You can also take a scenic aeroplane tour and see this natural wonder from above. 

While you’re in Arizona don’t miss the stunning sunsets in Tucson and sunsets in Sedona .

8. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

Image from Veronika Bykovich on Pexels

Yellowstone National Park is a stunning wilderness recreation area. It’s found mostly in Wyoming, although it spreads into sections of Montana and Idaho too. 

The dramatic topography is made up of canyons, rivers, forests, hot springs, and geysers. One of the most famous geysers is Old Faithful, which has erupted approximately every 44 minutes to 2 hours since 2000. 

The park is also home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, bison, wolves, elk, and antelope. 

9. Florida Keys, Florida

Image from Nextvoyage on Pexels

The Florida Keys are an archipelago of tropical islands about 120 miles (193 km) off the coast of Florida. It’s a hot spot for fans of snorkelling, scuba diving, boating, and just about any other water activity you can think of. 

Key West is the most famous of the islands. It’s popular with sun-worshippers in search of an exciting beach vacation. Other well-known islands include Key Largo, Marathon, and Islamorada.

You might enjoy reading some of my other articles about Florida: historical places in Florida , best coastal towns in Florid a, unique things to do in Florida and things to do in Orlando for adults.

10. Yosemite National Park, California 

Image from Mick Haupt on Pexels

Yosemite National Park is one of the numerous amazing places in California that’ll leave you breathless. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, the natural scenery is as dramatic and gorgeous as it gets. With calm lakes, ancient sequoia trees, and picturesque vistas, you’ll be treated to incredible views everywhere you look. 

Some of the most well-known areas of the National Park include El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Falls. There’s also Yosemite Village, which features rustic shops, restaurants, and accommodations. 

11. Big Sur, California 

Image from Nathan Moore on Pexels

The Big Sur region is an undeveloped section of the coastline along California’s central coast. It stretches for about 71 miles (114 km) between San Simeon and Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s often referred to as the most scenic coastal route in the US. 

On one side, you have the Pacific Ocean; on the other, you have the rugged Santa Lucia Mountains. Dotted throughout are redwood forests and beaches. Besides sightseeing along the highway, Big Sur offers hiking trails, camping sites, and accessible beaches.  

Big Sur is one of the best places to stop on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco and is also home to one of California’s best sunsets.

12. Disneyland, California 

Image from Isaac Garcia on Pexels

The Disneyland theme park is in Anaheim, California. It’s the original park opened by the Walt Disney Company, and it’s the only one to have been designed and built under the supervision of Walt Disney. Throughout the years, it’s undergone many expansion and renovation programs. 

Today, it contains different themed sections, including Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, New Orleans Square, Critter Country, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Mickey’s Toontown, and Tomorrowland. As with all the other Disney parks, it’s popular with all ages due to its abundance of attractions. 

13. Hollywood Walk of Fame, California 

Image from RJA1988 on Pixabay

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a historical landmark in California with more than 2,700 stars. They’re embedded in the sidewalks along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Hollywood, California.

This free attraction runs for about 15 blocks, or 1.3 miles (2.1 km). The names on the stars represent a mix of real and fictional people. They include actors, musicians, directors, producers, and fictional personalities.

Fun Fact: The first star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was laid in 1960. It was dedicated to Academy Award-winning actress Joanne Woodward. 

14. Golden Gate Bridge, California

Image from Tae Fuller on Pexels

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the world’s most beautiful bridges . It spans the Golden Gate, a one-mile (1.6 km) wide strait connecting San Francisco Bay with the Pacific Ocean. It links the city of San Francisco with Marin County. 

The bridge opened in 1937 to serve car, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic. It’s an iconic symbol of San Francisco and one of the most impressive engineering achievements in modern times. 

While you’re in San Francisco check out my articles on unique restaurants in San Francisco and the best places to watch the sunset in San Francisco .

Fun Fact: The Golden Gate Bridge gets its name from the body of water it crosses over, not the shade it’s painted. The official color of the bridge is called international orange.

15. Pier 39, California

Image from iulian_ursache on Pixabay

Pier 39 is another popular spot in San Francisco. It’s a shopping centre and tourist attraction set right on one of the city’s piers. It contains eateries, a video arcade, a carousel, street performers, the Aquarium of the Bay, and more. Pier 39 is a tourist hot spot that stays busy almost all hours of the day. 

It’s also a popular spot for sightseeing. You can view sea lions casually sunbathing on the docks right off the pier. And further out, the pier supplies incredible views of San Francisco Bay, including Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge. 

You might enjoy reading my article on the United States’ most diverse cities.

16. Venice Beach, California 

Image from Matthew LeJune on Unsplash

Venice Beach showcases the quintessential laid-back California lifestyle. Backed by the Pacific Ocean and dotted with palm trees, this is the ultimate place for fun in the sun. 

Visiting the Venice Beach Boardwalk is a must. It stretches for over two miles (3 km) and is lined with hundreds of street vendors, restaurants, bars, and street performers. While you wander, you can stop at an outdoor eatery for food, drinks, and a bit of people-watching. 

17. Balboa Park, California

Image from Leslie Yu on Unsplash

Balboa Park is a sprawling urban park in San Diego, California. Many attractions are contained within the boundaries of this cultural destination. Besides green spaces, you’ll find several theatres, 17 museums, lush gardens, walking paths, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and much more. 

The park has been attracting visitors since it opened in 1868. It has a Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style that blends right in with the city’s rich history. Best of all, the park does not charge an entrance fee. 

18. Walt Disney World, Florida

Image from Craig Adderley on Pexels

It’s no wonder Walt Disney World is one of the most visited places in the United States — it’s the happiest place on earth, after all. No matter your age, your inner child will relish the nostalgic atmosphere of this attraction. 

This theme park caters to every type of visitor, from kiddie rides and carnival games to thrilling roller coasters and entertaining shows. There are many dining options, from food vendors to high-end eateries. And last but not least, you can remember your trip by stopping into a souvenir shop for a Disney-themed memento. 

19. French Quarter, Louisiana

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Visiting the French Quarter in New Orleans is quite the experience. This charming district showcases all of the city’s best features. If you’re into the macabre, the voodoo shops, ghost tours, and crumbling cemeteries will provide a one-of-a-kind experience. 

If you’re a foodie, there are endless places to enjoy authentic creole cuisine. You can also explore the city’s past at the many historical places in NOLA in the French Quarter — some date back as far as the 1700s.  

20. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

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Bryce Canyon National Park is a nature reserve located in southern Utah. Despite its name, this attraction is not a canyon. It’s known for its many natural amphitheaters and hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations.

The vast landscape is made up of red, orange, and white shades that contrast beautifully with the blue skies above. This scene is especially magical when the sun sets. Plenty of hiking trails allow you to admire the scenery from different angles. 

21. Zion National Park, Utah 

Image from Anthony Macias on Pexels 

Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the US. It is located in southwest Utah and is renowned for its steep red cliffs, forested trails, and the rocky Virgin River. 

You’ll find lots of activities for adventurous travelers, like hiking, biking, backpacking, camping, and climbing. The best way to see the park is on two feet, but a scenic shuttle runs along the roughly six-mile (10 km) Zion Canyon Scenic drive.

And while you’re visiting Utah don’t forget to check out the fantastic Park City.

22. San Antonio River Walk, Texas

Image from Trac Vu on Unsplash

The San Antonio River Walk in Texas is a pedestrian-lined street next to some of the city’s most popular spots. This includes restaurants, bars, shops, and tourist attractions, like the San Antonio Museum of Art, and a handful of Spanish colonial missions, including the Alamo. 

It’s 15 miles (22 km) long, and, as the name implies, most of the path travels along the water. If you don’t feel like walking the route, you can take a riverboat cruise and explore the waterways in a more relaxing setting. 

23. The Alamo, Texas 

Image from beckerinok on Pixabay

The Alamo is a Spanish mission and fortress in San Antonio, Texas. It was built in 1718 by Roman Catholic missionaries and marks the spot of a pivotal event in Texan and US history. 

This Texas landmark is where the 1836 Battle of the Alamo occurred, fought between the Republic of Texas and Mexico. The historic site serves as a shrine to Texas independence and tells the story of the battle and other key events in the state’s history.

24. Navy Pier, Illinois 

Image from joestoltz on Pixabay

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long (1,005-metre) pier on the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood. This former Navy training center holds historical significance, although today, it attracts crowds for different reasons. 

It’s overflowing with entertaining activities, like carnival rides, regularly scheduled fireworks, restaurants, and shops. If you’re not afraid of heights, the iconic Ferris wheel will give you a great glimpse of the city’s nearby skyscrapers. 

25. Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Massachusetts 

Image from Brett Wharton on Unsplash

Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston is a popular marketplace and meeting hall that opened in 1742. It has ties to the founding of the United States; famous figures from America’s past, including Samuel Adams and Jamis Otis, gave speeches here regarding US independence. 

Today, it houses three popular markets: Quincy, North, and South. You’ll find a wide variety of shops, full-service restaurants, and casual food stalls. This is the place to go if you want to experience the local culture and food scene. 

26. Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

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The Las Vegas Strip pulses with energy 24/7. It’s the ultimate playground for vacationing adults. With high-end hotels, world-class shows, a surplus of shops, and gambling options galore, you can enjoy a completely over-the-top getaway. 

Whether you want to dine out every evening, dance the night away, or relax by the pool and order cocktail service, you can enjoy this city at whatever pace. This is the type of place that people visit repeatedly because there’s always something new and exciting happening. There are plenty of things to do in Las Vegas that aren’t gambling.

27. Pike Place Market, Washington 

Image from Angel Ceballos on Unsplash

Pike Place Market is one of the oldest continually running markets in the US. It’s been operating since 1907. It is located on Seattle’s stunning waterfront, showcasing everything the city is famous for, including views of Seattle’s stunning sunsets.

You’ll find roughly 200 different vendors selling everything from fresh fish and vegan treats to home decor and flower bouquets. Make sure to come hungry; there are food options to please all palettes. 

While you’re in Seattle make sure you check out the fantastic wineries in Washington State as well as some of Washington State’s hot springs.

Fun Fact: The original Starbucks coffee shop is just around the corner from Pike Place Market. 

28. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

Image from Anvesh on Unsplash 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. 

The vast terrain contains lush forests, blooming wildflowers, scenic streams, quiet rivers, and thundering waterfalls. All of this natural beauty can be admired from the many hiking routes that wind through the park. 

If you visit, make sure to head to Clingmans Dome. It’s the highest point in the national park as well as the whole state of Tennessee. An observation tower offers incredibly beautiful views of the mountains as far as the eye can see. 

29. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado 

Image from Alec Krum on Unsplash

Mesa Verde National Park is a sacred place in southwest Colorado’s rural landscape. The Ancestral Pueblo people sustained a thriving community in this area for hundreds of years. 

Today, it welcomes visitors to explore the many well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings. You can take a guided tour or wander around Mesa Verde on your own by hiking one of the well-marked trails. 

30. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Image from Samuel Karle on Pexels

Mount Rushmore has got to be one of the most unique landmarks in the United States. Carved into the side of South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore, you’ll find the faces of four former US presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. 

Each of the sculpture’s faces is approximately 60 feet (18 metres) in height. Construction for this massive project lasted from 1927 to 1941. 

Fun Fact: The sculpting of Mount Rushmore was extremely dangerous. Roughly 90% of the mountain had to be carved using dynamite. Surprisingly, the project saw zero fatalities over its 14-year construction timeline. 

31. Mackinac Bridge, Michigan

Image from Christopher Delcamp on Pexels

The Mackinac Bridge is a suspension bridge that rests over the Straits of Mackinac in Michigan. It opened in 1957 and connects the state’s Upper and Lower peninsulas. Before the bridge’s construction, these areas could only be traveled between by ferry. 

This famous American bridge operates a toll bridge and is only accessible to vehicle traffic, except on Labor Day when the bridge opens up for the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk. 

32. Mall of America, Minnesota

Image from Dallas Wrinkle on Pexels

The Mall of America is a huge shopping center in Bloomington, Minnesota. It’s the largest mall in the United States, and millions of visitors walk through its doors each year. There are approximately 520 shops and 50 restaurants — but that’s not all it has. 

The mall also houses an aquarium, an amusement park, a theatre, a minigolf course, an escape room, and much more. It’s safe to say that this attraction provides more than just a shopping experience. 

33. Acadia National Park, Maine 

Image from James Coffman on Pexels

Acadia National Park sits along the Atlantic coast of Maine. It’s a highly scenic recreation area with a landscape of rocky beaches, granite peaks, and woodland. Hiking is an extremely popular way to immerse yourself in the beautiful terrain. There are trails for all skill levels. 

On the edge of the national park, you’ll find Bar Harbor, one of the most beautiful towns in America. It’s one of the best places to base your trip to the national park. 

Don’t miss my post on unique things to do in Maine.

Most Visited Places in the United States | Final Thoughts 

There you have it; the most visited places in the United States. How many do you think you’ll be adding to your bucket list? It’s safe to say that all of them will provide a wonderful experience; there’s a reason they’re so popular. 

On the topic of travel, if you want to hop across the pond for some more adventure, check out the best places to visit in Europe next.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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21 best free things to do in New York City

Mar 23, 2024 • 9 min read

No filler. No fee. This is the best of New York City for free © Pedro Merino / Stocksy

New York City evokes both high-rise luxury and savvy deals. But the best offer in town? The number of free attractions the Big Apple has to enjoy.

You could spend a lifetime here ticking off the best things to do  – but have you seen the rental prices? It's better to squeeze in a concert, museum or tour that's absolutely free.

Want to make the most of your dollars? Save our guide to visiting New York City on a budget .

1. See one of the world's loveliest final-resting places at Green-Wood Cemetery

Once the nation's most visited tourist attraction outside Niagara Falls, the gorgeous Green-Wood Cemetery was built in 1838 and today is the eternal home to some 600,000 souls. The 478-acre cemetery is leafy and lovely and features Brooklyn's highest point, Battle Hill – named after a skirmish during the Revolutionary War and now marked with a seven-foot statue of the Roman goddess of wisdom, Minerva.

Planning tip:  Watch for the squawking green parakeets at the cemetery's Gothic-style entrance pavilion; according to local legend, these non-native birds arrived after a mishap at JFK Airport in the 1980s and have called the cemetery home ever since.

2. Visit the moving African Burial Ground National Monument

In 1991, construction workers uncovered a burial ground filled with more than 400 caskets containing the bodies of enslaved Africans from the 17th and 18th centuries – an age when New York had more people in bondage than any American city outside Charleston, South Carolina. Today, tucked among downtown skyscrapers, the  African Burial Ground National Monument  offers a space for visitors to contemplate the past and learn about the history of the African American community in early New York City.

3. Discover unsung talent at the American Folk Art Museum

With objects ranging from photographs and quilts to weather vanes in its collection, the American Folk Art Museum is devoted to the appreciation and expressions of self-taught artists, spanning all eras. And perhaps appropriately for an institution devoted to the work of creators from outside the canon, admission is always free.

Keep museum-hopping at these institutions and galleries in NYC .

4. Hear sizzling live jazz at Barbès

Having helped to launch the careers of legendary jazz artists like Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk, New York City's club scene is enshrined into the pages of jazz history, and seeing a live show here is an essential NYC experience for music lovers. Iconic venues like the Village Vanguard and the Blue Note may be way out of your price range, but head across the bridge to Barbès in Brooklyn, and you can enjoy stellar nightly performances for free (tips for the band are always greatly appreciated).

5. Pay your respects at Grant's Tomb

This imposing granite structure holds the remains of the Civil War hero and 18th president and his wife, Julia. Built after a major fundraising campaign in the late 19th century, the General Ulysses S Grant National Memorial  is the largest mausoleum in the USA and was inspired by Mausolus' tomb at Halicarnassus , one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.  

6. See haute stuff at the Fashion Institute of Technology Museum

It's always Fashion Week at the FIT Museum , which features rotating exhibits by students and engaging exhibitions that draw on a collection of 50,000 garments dating from the 18th century to the present.

7. Admire the Bushwick Collective's curated street art in Brooklyn

Curated by Bushwick native Joe Ficalora, the Bushwick Collective  is an unofficial graffiti museum that brings together top street artists from all around the world. Spanning multiple buildings over several blocks, the art you'll see is all temporary, legal and a worthy rival to anything you'll see in a museum with four walls.

Planning tip:  The Bushwick Collective organizes a free block party every June that brings the whole community together to dance and listen to an incredible lineup of artists. Definitely worth a visit if you're spending a summer in the city.

8. Get a culture fix in the Boogie Down at the Bronx Museum of the Arts 

A scrappy and vibrant institution on the historic Grand Concourse, the Bronx Museum of the Arts' mission is to promote cross-cultural dialogue and make art accessible for diverse urban audiences. Founded in 1971 in New York's northernmost borough , the museum collects and exhibits pieces of contemporary and 20th-century art spanning all mediums. The museum became free in 2012.

9. Savor each of Central Park's 843 acres

Even though the real estate surrounding this famous urban oasis is some of the most expensive in the world, access to Central Park is gloriously free for New Yorkers and visitors of all means. Since Frederick Law Olmsted's layout of the park was intended to be pleasantly disorienting, we recommend spending a few hours wandering aimlessly through its alluring paths, lush groves and delightful water features.

You probably won't want to miss the Imagine mosaic at Strawberry Fields , just steps in from where John Lennon was shot in 1980. You can also retrace the steps of  The Catcher in the Rye  protagonist  Holden Caulfield  by checking out the ducks in the Pond at the park's southeastern corner.

Explore Central Park's best hidden corners on one of these detours.

10. Gallery-hop in West Chelsea

New York's most concentrated area for a gallery crawl is in Chelsea, in the West 20s between 10th and 11th Avenues. From small start-ups to established institutions like Pace and David Zwirner , all galleries are free to enter, with no pressure to buy. Check out the Art Dealers Association of America's gallery guide , which has a comprehensive list of current shows, and create your own arty adventure.

Planning tip:  Plan your tour for a Thursday evening, when most wine-and-cheese openings take place.

11. Hop on a boat to bike around Governors Island

The ferry to Governors Island is free on Saturdays and Sundays before noon (usually a $3 round trip). Entry to the 172-acre island, now open year-round, costs nothing either. An eclectic range of attractions includes a 2.2-mile bike path, artificial hills offering splendid harbor views, a program of live events and rotating art installations, plus former military sites such as the Admiral's House and Fort Jay.

Planning tip:  Frequent (and free) guided tours depart from the Soissons Landing Welcome Center.

12. Admire Lady Liberty from the Staten Island Ferry

The Statue of Liberty is a must-see, but ferry tours to Liberty Island start at $18 for adults. Enter the Staten Island Ferry , which plies New York Harbor 24 hours a day, seven days a week, offering a stellar view of this iconic monument at no cost at all. Having been in service since 1905, the ferry shuttles some 19 million visitors and commuters back and forth across the harbor each year. 

13. See how the magic happens during a Brooklyn Brewery tour

Free tours of Williamsburg's Brooklyn Brewery run Saturday and Sunday every half hour starting at 1pm, with the last tour offered at 6pm. Linger a while after in the tasting room.

14. Catch a cool show at BRIC House and Celebrate Brooklyn!

In a part of Brooklyn humming with cultural activity,  BRIC House  is a leading presenter of no-cost multimedia programming, with free admission to two performance spaces and a gallery. In the summer, the organization curates the Celebrate Brooklyn! series in Prospect Park , with a majority of the concerts and performances – which in the past have sets from Chaka Khan, Janelle Monáe, the dancers of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and many others – free of charge, with no ticket necessary.

15. Promenade on the High Line

Technically a public park, the High Line has the feel of a runway, where New Yorkers and tourists (sometimes a lot of them) sashay for a stroll. Part of the slow, ongoing re-green-ification of Manhattan, this 1.5-mile-long elevated park, standing some 30 feet in the air, was created from an abandoned stretch of elevated railroad track.

Connecting the Meatpacking District with Chelsea's galleries before ending at gleaming Hudson Yards , it costs nothing to take a wander up here. En route, wonderful views open up of the Hudson River to the west and of pedestrians on the sidewalks below. 

Planning tip: Hudson Yards has free movie screenings every Friday night in the public square.

16. Explore Native American culture at the National Museum of the American Indian

Situated in the spectacular Alexander Hamilton U.S. Customs House (1907), the National Museum of the American Indian , a branch of the Smithsonian , offers one of the country's finest arrays of Native American art. The focus of its million-item-strong collection, as well as its programs, is on culture rather than history – prepare for a visual feast.

17. Get inspired at the New York Public Library

New York's most famous library  (today known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building) is situated in a grand, world-famous Beaux-Arts icon east of Times Square. Guarded by marble lions named Patience and Fortitude, it's a jaw-dropper to walk through – particularly the Rose Main Reading Room, with space for 500 patrons to pore over tomes under the library's original Carrère and Hastings-designed lamps.

Exhibitions showcase the institution's astonishing holdings, which include a copy of the original Declaration of Independence, a Gutenberg Bible and some 431,000 old maps. Free tours  of the building and the Rose Main Reading Room take place throughout the week.

18. Attend a Shakespeare play

You can try your luck to win free tickets to Shakespeare in the Park, presented each summer in Central Park's Delacorte Theater by the  Public Theater , via the digital lottery and standby lines. You can also get your fix of the Bard – with some awfully romantic lighting – at Shakespeare at Sunset, produced by New York Classical Theatre at non-traditional public venues across the city, including Battery Park .

19. See a work of art made from 140 tons of dirt

No frame would be big enough for this. The Earth Room , Walter De Maria's 1977 installation, is a single room in a nondescript SoHo building filled with 280,000 pounds of dirt, combining the familiar confines of an urban space with the scent of a wet forest. Strange? A little. Memorable? Definitely.

20. Interact with the art at Socrates Sculpture Park

Overlooking Roosevelt Island and the Upper East Side on the East River, the site of a former landfill now hosts  Socrates Sculpture Park , a playful and free outdoor museum and public park with large-scale interactive sculptures and multimedia art installations. On Wednesdays in the summer, free movie screenings take place, with an emphasis on foreign films, preceded by corresponding music and cultural performances.

21. Admire the world's first LGBTIQ+ dedicated art space, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay & Lesbian Art

Featuring works by US and international artists, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay & Lesbian Art is the first museum in the world dedicated to LGBTIQ+ themes. As well as rotating exhibitions and regular retrospectives, most of the art on show is from the gallery's vast collection. Lectures, performances and film screenings are also held here regularly. It's free, but donations are welcome.

Save our ultimate guide to LGBTIQ+ travel in NYC .

Ready to plan your trip to NYC?

Add these top experiences to your itinerary Find out which NYC neighborhood fits your vibe Give your wallet a break with these incredible free experiences Navigate NYC like a local with our transportation guide

This article was first published Aug 20, 2019 and updated Mar 23, 2024.

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The 28 best water parks in the u.s. for 2024.

Stay cool on a hot day at America's best water parks.

Getty Images |

Whether you want to enjoy a big splash or a relaxing float, these water parks and resorts offer ample facilities to keep you entertained.

Today's water park attractions are far more thrilling and diverse than they were just a few decades ago. In fact, the best water parks in the U.S. feature everything from towering slides and water coasters to sandy spots and lazy rivers. Some even have giant wave pools and surf simulators to try out, and many offer on-site lodging options that make it easy to extend your stay beyond a single day. (Just be aware that many water parks are only open seasonally from May to September.)

Read on to learn about the top water parks, as well as their wettest and wildest amenities.

Cowabunga Bay Water Park: Draper, Utah

Sitting less than 20 miles south of downtown Salt Lake City , this swinging 1960s-themed water park is decorated with surfboards, retro beach furniture and a lively color scheme that screams fun. At this seasonal outdoor park's elaborate water playground (billed as the world's largest), kids have access to bridges and tunnels that span 12 levels. There are also 11 twisting waterslides that are well worth a visit. While older children twist through the 800-foot-long Mondo waterslide in the dark, little ones can lounge at Cowabunga Beach or enjoy Cowabunga Kids Cove's smaller slides. Cowabunga Bay also has a location near Las Vegas .

Where to stay: The aquatic fun doesn't have to end when the park closes if you stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City Draper, located just 4 miles southwest. This hotel features an indoor pool and free breakfast. Family-friendly rooms sleep up to four, and past guests praise the welcoming staff and excellent housekeeping.

Address: 12047 State St., Draper, UT 84020

Courtesy of Noah's Ark Waterpark |

Noah's Ark Waterpark: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Situated in Wisconsin Dells – which is known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World" – Noah's Ark dubs itself the largest water park in the country. In addition to restaurants and shops, the park is home to more than two dozen aquatic attractions, including the Flash Flood flume ride and two meandering lazy rivers with waterfalls. One of this innovative park's biggest thrills is the side-by-side tube racer, Raja, which sends riders speeding around 335 feet of track before they plunge 37 feet into the mouth of a king cobra.

Where to stay: An affordable, well-liked option is the AmericInn by Wyndham Wisconsin Dells, located less than 2 miles north of the park. From on-site grills to Wi-FI access, this hotel has plenty of amenities to help you relax after a long day on the slides. Past travelers also give a thumbs up to the large pool area in the hotel, as well as the quality breakfast (which is included, too). Wisconsin Dells is also home to plenty of resorts , many of which have indoor water parks of their own.

Address: 1410 Wisconsin Dells Parkway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

Courtesy of Water World Colorado |

Water World: Federal Heights, Colorado

Spanning more than 70 acres, this park near Denver features 50-plus attractions, including family waterslides, a relaxing lazy river and the huge Thunder Bay Wave Pool. If your kids are a little too young to be zipping down slides alone, there's a good range of lower-adrenaline attractions, including the Caribbean Family Adventure, an aquatic playground great for no-fuss splashing about. Plus, you'll have access to free parking (though the park is also accessible by Denver public transit), complimentary admission for children shorter than 40 inches and reduced rates for seniors.

Where to stay: Around 5 miles north (a quick drive on the highway) is the four-star DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Denver – Thornton. A sleek, modern property, this hotel features family-friendly rooms with two queen beds and budget-friendly rates. You'll find a fitness center and a Mexican restaurant on-site, and previous guests said they appreciated the small touches here, like warm cookies provided at check-in.

Address: 8801 N. Pecos St., Federal Heights, CO 80260

Courtesy of Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort |

Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort: New Braunfels, Texas

When founders Bob and Billye Henry added a replica German castle tower with four waterslides to their riverfront resort near San Antonio in 1979, they started what would become one of America's most well-known water parks. Schlitterbahn has expanded majorly in the decades since to become one of the top water parks in Texas .

It is now effectively two parks (East and West) rolled into one, with a broad variety of river rides, pools and waterslides for the entire family to enjoy. Thrill-seekers won't want to skip the Master Blaster Uphill Water Coaster, with its high speed and plenty of exciting drops. This water park also has a location in Galveston, Texas .

Where to stay: Families can book a stay at the Resorts at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels for a few days of fun and convenient access to the park. Options range from simple hotel rooms to fancy suites and multibedroom vacation homes. The Stay and Play package bundles park entry with your lodging. Past guests note that the accommodation options that include full kitchens make life easy if you're traveling with family.

Address: 400 N. Liberty Ave., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Courtesy of Legoland California |

Legoland Water Park: Carlsbad, California

Located around 35 miles north of downtown San Diego within Legoland California Resort, this water park is mainly geared toward kids ages 2 to 12. Its Lego-themed rides, slides and splash pads dazzle even the youngest patrons. For added fun, kids can customize their rafts for the lazy river using Lego bricks. Other noteworthy features of this park include a spot for kids to design and build bridges and dams, as well as the Twin Chasers, where family members can race each other down slides. Or, you can just play among the water cannons of the splashy Joker Soaker attraction.

Take note: You must purchase a general Legoland ticket to access the water park inside.

Where to stay: For the full SoCal experience, consider staying at Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort . It's right on the beach in Carlsbad Village, with plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance. Condos are available for families, and the resort is stacked with amenities ranging from pingpong tables to fire pits. It might be worth sticking around for a day at the resort as well as hitting Legoland, since past guests say that there's plenty of daily activities on offer, including crafts and live music.

Address: 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort |

Universal's Volcano Bay: Orlando, Florida

Opened in 2017 at Universal Orlando Resort (a top Orlando theme park ), the Volcano Bay water park is built around a realistic volcano. Admission covers access to around 20 unique attractions, plus a waterproof TapuTapu wristband, which guests can use to book and hold a spot in the Virtual Line for rides (so you don't need to wait in a physical line), pay for meals and open lockers. Notable park features include a lazy river and a dozen waterslides, such as the Maku of the Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides.

Where to stay: Universal has a number of resorts and hotels around its broader resort complex. Within walking distance is the sleek and modern Aventura Hotel; its large Kids Suites sleep up to five people. Past visitors note that the dining options are a highlight, from the Urban Pantry food hall to a rooftop bistro with stellar views.

Address: 6000 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819

Courtesy of Silver Dollar City |

Silver Dollar City's White Water: Branson, Missouri

Branson is all about country music, live shows and family-friendly fun. For plenty of the latter, consider this 13-acre water park, which features 2 million gallons of water across a lazy river, a wave pool and a bunch of slides. Thrill-seekers will gravitate to the KaPau Plummet ride, with its near-vertical 40-foot plunge that drops you at a rate of 26 feet per second. If little ones are in tow, drift in a tube in the Aloha River or splash around in the Coconut Cove water playground.

Where to stay: If you want some contact with nature while you're in the Ozarks, Cliffs Resort Table Rock Lake in Branson is a good bet. It has one- and two-bedroom condos, plus barbecue and bonfire setups for grilling or telling spooky stories with the family. Previous visitors praise the lake location as a great place to get away from it all.

Address: 3505 W. Missouri state Highway 76, Branson, MO 65616

Courtesy of Wilderness at the Smokies |

Wilderness at the Smokies: Sevierville, Tennessee

This family resort just north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park combines lodging with a trio of indoor and outdoor water parks. At the three water parks, guests have access to numerous waterslides, pools and thrilling rides. Lake Wilderness Outdoor Waterpark and its array of slides is a must for teens during the summer months, while Salamander Springs Outdoor Waterpark offers an activity pool, a 500-gallon dump bucket and a zero-entry play area for families with younger kids.

Lastly, Wild WaterDome brings the fun inside as one of the top indoor water park resorts in the U.S. , with a clear roof that allows a jungle of tropical plants to grow. Attractions check all the water park boxes from thrilling slides to the colorful kaleidoscopic lazy river to hot tubs for the parents.

Where to stay: Wilderness at the Smokies has an array of accommodations on-site, with options like standard hotel rooms at the Stone Hill Lodge or spacious multibedroom Mountainside Cabins (which are actually more like full houses). Past travelers note that the resort staff are friendly and welcoming. Entry into the indoor and outdoor waterparks is included in your overnight stay at the resort.

Address: 1424 Old Knoxville Highway, Sevierville, TN 37876

Courtesy of SeaWorld |

Adventure Island: Tampa, Florida

Within walking distance of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay you'll find the 30-acre Adventure Island water park. Offering mat racing slides, corkscrews, a lazy river and more – all with breezy tropical decor – this outdoor water park gives you plenty of ways to cool off on a hot Florida day. The park is continuously expanding, too: In 2022, it opened the multirider Rapids Racer and the Wahoo! Remix family raft ride. In 2024, Adventure Island is set to add Castaway Falls, an interactive playground with slides, sprays, soakers and more.

Where to stay: Hotel Haya is a surprisingly affordable boutique hotel less than 10 miles away in the heart of Tampa. Choose between rooms with or without balconies, many of which are designed in a stylish blue tone. Travelers compliment beautiful building and say they love the pool area. Located alongside buzzy Seventh Avenue, the hotel offers easy access to restaurants, too.

Address: 10001 McKinley Drive, Tampa, FL 33612

Courtesy of Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark |

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

This family lodge within Grand Geneva Resort & Spa sits on relaxing wooded grounds and offers access to a championship golf course (part of the broader Grand Geneva property), an arcade and Moose Mountain Falls Waterpark. This 50,000-square-foot lodge and water park has an outdoor section that is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, as well as an indoor water park. Overnight guests get at least four complimentary passes to the facility's twisting slides, lazy river and heated pool. Kids will especially love climbing ropes at the activity pool and riding Avalanche Falls, which plays various songs as riders zip past colored lights.

Where to stay: Considering that free park passes are included, staying on-site at Timber Ridge Lodge is a great option. Choose between one- and two-bedroom suites, which come with full kitchens and fireplaces. Grand Geneva also has an on-site Adventure Center, so the family can take on less watery activities like biking and archery. Past visitors point out that the lodge and water park are especially suitable for younger kids.

Address: 7020 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Courtesy of Cedar Point |

Cedar Point Shores Waterpark: Sandusky, Ohio

Overlooking Lake Erie from a stretch of shoreline that is also home to the iconic Cedar Point amusement park, Cedar Point Shores Waterpark is one of the top water parks in Ohio . This park features 18 acres of aquatic fun spanning baby rides to exciting slides. The park's roughly 20 water attractions include the extreme Point Plummet body slides; a toddler zone named after the lake's mythical monster, Lemmy; and the family-friendly Lakeslide Landing, which houses a dozen miniature slides.

Where to stay: There are very few hotels on the actual Cedar Point Shores peninsula, but one option is the lakefront Hotel Breakers . The sprawling, 600-plus room property has a range of rooms suitable for families, such as double queen options. Hotel guests receive early access to the Cedar Point theme park (which is separate from the water park), and you'll have plentiful dining options. Past guests particularly love that you can access a beautiful mile-long beach on Lake Erie directly from the hotel.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Courtesy of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions |

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Wisconsin Dells: Baraboo, Wisconsin

This Safari-themed Kalahari Resorts property (which is one of four major Kalahari parks in the country) is one of the wettest and wildest water park destinations in the Wisconsin Dells area, with both an indoor and outdoor park. At the indoor water park, visitors can hop on a variety of waterslides, lounge in whirlpools, ride the Master Blaster water coaster and more. The outdoor water park features kids pools and exhilarating waterslides like the funnel-shaped Swahili Swirl. Passes include access to both parks, although the outdoor venue is only open in warmer months.

Where to stay: Lodging is available on-site, with the notable perk of included access to the water parks. The lakefront villas are great for larger groups; there are also more classic hotel-style rooms that include an extra sofa bed. Guests note that the rooms – and particularly the beds – are very comfy.

Address: 1305 Kalahari Drive, Baraboo, WI 53913

Courtesy of Camelback Resort |

Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark: Tannersville, Pennsylvania

The broader Camelback Resort complex housing this Poconos water playground offers families year-round recreation. Camelback houses the Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark, and during the summer months, travelers can also take advantage of the Camelbeach Outdoor Waterpark. This outdoor facility features more than three dozen rides and slides of all sizes, plus FlowRider surf simulator sessions for those who want to learn how to surf. For a thrill that doesn't require that level of balance, try the Titan. Reputedly the highest slide of its kind in the world, it plummets guests down eight stories in a four-seat raft.

Where to stay: At the same address, Camelback Lodge offers 450-plus hotel suites for families who want to stay a few days. A stay conveniently includes water park access. To secure a good deal, pay attention to the resort's special offers, such as discounts for advance booking. The various rooms and condos sleep between four and 14 guests, and according to past visitors, you'll likely encounter friendly and helpful staff.

Address: 301 Resort Drive, Tannersville, PA 18372

Preston Mack | Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon: Orlando, Florida

A tropical paradise is the setting for this Walt Disney World Resort water park attraction. Typhoon Lagoon's focal point is Mount Mayday, where an array of slides and raft rides travel through and around caves, waterfalls and rock formations. The park's huge surfing lagoon is equally impressive; guests who enter it face 6-foot swells. Meanwhile, families can't miss Ketchakiddee Creek, a water playground with child-sized pools, a small beach and an interactive tugboat.

Where to stay: Disney has a lot of its own accommodation options spread across the sprawling Disney World property. The closest is Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, which features its own on-site beaches, hammocks and volleyball courts. Guests say they love the tropical island theme spread throughout the resort, from the guest rooms to the outdoor areas. Just be warned: Since it's Disney World, prices are high.

Address: 1145 E. Buena Vista Drive, Orlando, FL 32830

Courtesy of Dollywood |

Dollywood's Splash Country: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Dolly Parton's water park in Pigeon Forge pays tribute to the lush green forests of the surrounding area, where Parton grew up. Themed rides and slides include the Downbound Float Trip with a 200-foot waterfall that soaks guests, the wooden Bear Mountain Fire Tower play structure, and dual slides that end at a butterfly-shaped pool. If you're after an adrenaline rush, ride RiverRush, Tennessee's first water coaster.

Where to stay: Dollywood has on-site accommodations at either DreamMore Resort & Spa or HeartSong Lodge & Resort. While you won't get free park entry, any resort guest with tickets will receive priority access to the parks and some of the attractions. You'll likely feel very welcome: Past visitors highlight the exceedingly warm Southern hospitality of the staff at Dollywood's resorts. Another option is to branch out to one of the Bear Cove Cabins (on a separate property) for a more outdoorsy vibe.

Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

Courtesy of Aquatica San Antonio |

Aquatica San Antonio: San Antonio, Texas

This park, located next to SeaWorld San Antonio in the heart of Texas, has a beach vacation feel. There's a beach bar, a powerful wave pool and Stingray Falls, where four-person rafts float through a tank of stingrays and tropical fish. Aquatic animal encounters are also available, though extra charges may apply. No visit is complete without experiencing one of the park's biggest thrills: the high-speed Taumata Racer slide. Be sure to also check out the newly opened Tikitapu Splash, a 15,000-square-foot play area for little ones with dozens of slides, geysers, spouts and more.

Where to stay: For the full San Antonio experience, stay at the Omni La Mansión del Rio property in the city center. This historic former school was turned into an upscale hotel more than 50 years ago. One- and two-bedroom suites are available here, and the hotel has a prime location by the San Antonio River Walk – perfect for a stroll with the family after your fun at the park. Past guests highlight this location in the heart of the action, noting it is near plenty of restaurants.

Address: 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251

Water Country USA: Williamsburg, Virginia

Water Country USA is easy to reach from Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown and the Yorktown Battlefield, should you need a break from Williamsburg 's historical attractions. Noteworthy amenities include a chilled-out lazy river, multiple slides and a huge wave pool – plus Big Daddy Falls, a whitewater rafting adventure. As of 2023, parkgoers can now race each other through the 520-foot-long Riptide Race; there's also Aquazoid Amped, a slide that opened in 2022 and plunges 864 feet.

Where to stay: The closest major hotel to the park is the DoubleTree by Hilton Williamsburg , which is about 3 miles southwest. Head here to keep splashing around in the indoor and outdoor pools. The plush hotel rooms have a maximum of two beds, but connecting rooms are an option for larger groups. Past visitors highlight the convenient location, which is close to the park but also within easy reach of Colonial Williamsburg, downtown and nearby restaurants.

Address: 176 Water Country Parkway, Williamsburg, VA 23185

Courtesy of Audubon Nature Institute |

Audubon Cool Zoo: New Orleans, Louisiana

It might not be as large as some of the other water parks on this list, but this park in New Orleans is an especially cool pick thanks to its unique location inside the lush Audubon Zoo . Here, families can explore exotic animal habitats and indigenous swamp life by foot or train. Though you'll pay extra to visit the zoo's water park, you'll find instant relief from the heat in its animal-themed soakers, pools and Gator Run, a 750-foot-long lazy river that's connected to two beaches. Plus, entry to Audubon Cool Zoo is a fraction of what big water parks cost.

Where to stay: The Omni Riverfront Hotel is a family-friendly option that's close enough to the activities of the gorgeous French Quarter, but far enough that you will sleep peacefully away from New Orleans' raucous nightlife. The Omni Junior Chef program provides some kid-friendly snacks and activities, too. Previous guests compliment the hotel's historic building and elegant rooms.

Address: 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70118

Courtesy of Holiday World |

Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

A perennial favorite among families, Splashin' Safari, which is situated roughly 75 miles west of Louisville, Kentucky , is best known for its fun family water coasters, including Cheetah Chase, Mammoth and Wildebeest. The park also offers the eight-slide Tembo Falls and the Tembo Tides wave pool. When you need a break from the water, stop by Holiday World, the charming holiday-themed amusement park located on the same property. Ticket prices include access to both parks.

Where to stay: Packages that include park entry are available at a number of hotels in the area if you book through the Holiday World & Splashin' Safari website. Stay in a cottage at Santa's Lakeside Cottages to enjoy an outdoor pool, fire pits, waterfront accommodations and more. Travelers say the cottages are well maintained and good for families.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Courtesy of Knott's Soak City Water Park |

Knott's Soak City Waterpark: Buena Park, California

This Knott's Berry Farm-affiliated water park around 5 miles west of Anaheim features 15 acres of amenities, including a lazy river and roughly two dozen speed, tube and body slides. Families will love Gremmie Lagoon and the Beach House water playground, where kids can climb and splash beneath a three-story structure. The 750,000-gallon Tidal Wave Bay wave pool is another crowd favorite.

Where to stay: Just a mile north of Knott's Soak City is the Courtyard by Marriott Anaheim Buena Park, offering a variety of rooms that can each sleep up to four guests. Past visitors call it a clean, no-fuss option for a vacation, adding that the location across the street from the beloved Porto's Bakery is a big plus.

Address: 8200 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620

Read: The Top California Theme Parks

Steve Davis | Courtesy of Shipwreck Island Waterpark

Shipwreck Island Waterpark: Panama City Beach, Florida

Florida's Panama City Beach is known for its white sand beaches and emerald-green waters, but visitors will also find plenty of attractions away from the sea. A great option is Shipwreck Island Waterpark, which contains 3 million gallons of water across 15 acres of attractions. Major features include a 500,000-gallon wave pool, the white waters of the Raging Rapids ride, the 60-foot-high Pirate's Plunge Racing Slide and children's activity pools for the little ones in your crew.

Where to stay: For a self-contained place to stay directly on the beach, Treasure Island Resort Condominium is a solid choice. There's a range of condos with two and three bedrooms. Exact amenities vary, but a modern full kitchen is standard – and many have balconies, washers and dryers. Past guests rave about the great views and the on-site pool.

Address: 12201 Hutchison Blvd., Panama City Beach, FL 32407

Courtesy of Big Rivers Waterpark |

Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures: New Caney, Texas

Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventures is home to what it calls the largest lazy river in the Houston area, as well as numerous thrill rides and a unique river racer with a 360-degree loop. An attraction called Frio Falls features three towering slides that leave guests spiraling or plummeting six stories below. For some drier fun, parkgoers can head to the on-site Big Rivers Fairgrounds, complete with its own share of roller coasters and rides. Entry to both areas is included with the same ticket.

Where to stay: Head 6 miles south to La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Houston New Caney, featuring simple hotel rooms with free Wi-Fi access, breakfast and parking. There's also an outdoor pool and barbecue grills. Past visitors praise the cleanliness of the property and the friendliness of the staff.

Address: 23101 Texas state Highway 242, New Caney, TX 77357

Courtesy of Waldameer & Water World |

Waldameer & Water World: Erie, Pennsylvania

This combination theme park and water park – one of the best water parks in Pennsylvania – has more than 30 slides, alongside a 500,000-gallon wave pool and an enormous hot tub for relaxation (it fits up to 120 people). The Rally Racer lets you lay belly-down while racing your friends on a personal raft, and the Lake Erie Dip is a twisting-and-turning body slide that's sure to thrill adrenaline-seekers. If you have small children in your group, the Kidz Zone splash area offers eight small slides and dozens of interactive water jets.

Where to stay: Around 5 miles northeast in downtown Erie sits the well-rated Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront, right alongside the city's Maritime Museum. The tasteful rooms feature a pop of color in their funky carpets; family-friendly lodging options include rooms with two queen beds. Guests note that the hotel is quite pristine, as it's relatively new. They also say the rooftop restaurant is a particular highlight.

Address: 220 Peninsula Drive, Erie, PA 16505

Courtesy of Rapids Waterpark |

Rapids Waterpark: West Palm Beach, Florida

Located less than 10 miles northwest of downtown West Palm Beach , Rapids Waterpark is a go-to for splashy fun in South Florida. With around 20 attractions, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy yourself here. Get the family together and take a thrilling spin on the funnel-shaped Black Thunder, which will spin you around in total darkness. If that's too much, you can always just cruise down the lazy river as it takes you through water cannons, mist and a waterfall.

Rapids is also now home to Florida's only water coaster racer: the newly opened Mega Mayhem, an exhilarating ride equipped with blast jets for extra speed (allowing you to hit up to 22 miles per hour).

Where to stay: Although a lot of prime lodging in this area is concentrated further over in Palm Beach, the Canopy by Hilton West Palm Beach Downtown is located right downtown. It's a classy spot with a rooftop pool and floor-to-ceiling windows in its eclectically decorated rooms. Past guests love the property's location close to the shops and restaurants of Clematis Street, and they also like the stylish design of the hotel.

Address: 6566 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33407

Island H2O Water Park: Kissimmee, Florida

This park outside Orlando puts a technological twist on classic water park attractions. Slides like Live Streaming will give you a wacky video recording of you as you drop vertically, while the Profile Plunge allows your group of six to control the music while on the way down. When you are ready to lounge, you can book cabanas for an extra fee. The park also offers smart wristbands that let you control parts of some rides, store photos and videos, find your friends and family, and more.

Where to stay: For easy access to the park, stay at Sonder Cirrus, which is effectively right next door. Its sleek, modern rooms feature lots of wood and white textures, and they can sleep up to six guests. Past visitors appreciate the tech-savvy nature of this hotel, where everything from check-in to room access can be handled through an app.

Address: 3230 Inspiration Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34747

Read: The Top Things to Do in Orlando With Kids

Courtesy of Lost Island Waterpark |

Lost Island Waterpark: Waterloo, Iowa

Designed with a tropical island theme, this park in northeastern Iowa mixes high-octane thrills with more relaxed activities. For thrill-seekers, there's the high-speed Wailua Kupua, a hydromagnetic water coaster – meaning it uses power from magnets to push rafts up in the slide. Another exciting option is the intense funnel-shaped Molokini Crater. If you like it calmer, there's a zero-entry wave pool for everyone and the Blue Iguana Lagoon for smaller kids to splash about.

The park also offers mini-golf and go-karts for an extra fee if you tire of the water. For more excitement, buy a combination ticket so you can head to the theme park at the same site.

Where to stay: Less than 2 miles away is the Fairfield Inn & Suites Waterloo Cedar Falls, which offers a good range of amenities like an indoor pool and a fitness center, plus a colorful design scheme in the rooms. Past guests say they appreciated the fresh, abundant free breakfast, too.

Address: 2225 E. Shaulis Road, Waterloo, IA 50701

Grahm S. Jones | Courtesy of Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Zoombezi Bay: Powell, Ohio

For a water park with a twist, Zoombezi Bay is a fantastic choice. It's owned by the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and you can enter both the water park and the zoo with the same ticket to enjoy Zoombezi Bay's 17 slides and other rides. For a thrill, you can feel the sensation of weightlessness in the tunnel of Big Boa Falls. Meanwhile, kids can splash and climb through Baboon Lagoon, while parents relax and float down the adults-only Croctail Creek with its swim-up bar.

Where to stay: There are few hotels in the immediate vicinity of Zoombezi Bay, but around 10 miles east lies the top-rated Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel, a Marriott property. With queen beds and hardwood floors, the rooms are both comfortable and stylish. Past visitors note that the whole place, from the grounds to the rooms, is quite beautiful.

Address: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, OH 43065

Courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge |

Great Wolf Lodge: Multiple Locations

Great Wolf Lodge's indoor water park resorts are notable for their scale and the number of locations. As of early 2024, there are 20 parks, including one in Canada. Other locations are coming soon. The parks vary in size – with the largest (in Perryville, Maryland) clocking in at more than 120,000 square feet – but they share many of the same basic attractions and food. Regardless of location, expect to splash around lazy rivers, wave pools and waterslides in winter-friendly pools heated to 80-plus degrees. (Most parks are indoors, allowing for winter visits.) There are also usually some activities on dry land, too, such as arcade games and bowling.

Where to stay: Great Wolf Lodge locations typically offer accommodations on-site in woodsy suites, allowing for an easy overnight trip. Water park passes are included with accommodations and cover all days of your stay. Various restaurants are offered at most locations, with dining packages available.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Water Parks in New Jersey
• The Top Water Parks in Georgia
• The Top Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Indoor Amusement Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Aquariums in the U.S.

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August 26, 2021

Guide London A – Z: Letter J London Landmarks And Tourist Attractions

How many London landmarks and tourist attractions can you name that start with the Letter J? Blue Badge Tourist Guide Mark King continues our Guide London A-Z video series and provides insights on the historical events, famous and not-so-famous landmarks in London starting with the Letter J.

London landmarks and tourist attractions that begin with the Letter J

This is the Guide London A-Z.  I am Mark King, a London Blue Badge Tourist Guide and today let’s look at the letter ‘J’.

Dr. Samuel Johnson’s House

‘J’ is for Dr. Samuel Johnson, the 18th-century dictionary-compiler, writer, and wit, who famously said: “Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.”

To discover more about Dr. Johnson’s life and times, head to one of his former homes in a little cobbled square tucked away off Fleet Street. In the square, you’ll also find a charming sculpture of his beloved pet cat, Hodge enjoying a tasty oyster.

Jewish London – Bevis Marks Synagogue

Over its 2000-year existence, London has become home to an impressively diverse population. One of the longest-established is its Jewish community, our next ‘J’.

Nestling among modern skyscrapers, the three-hundred-year-old Bevis Marks synagogue’s historic interior hosts traditional services that are still lit in winter by flickering candlelight. First invited over in the 11th century from his lands in Normandy by the all-conquering new English King William I, Jewish merchants and financiers played an important role in England until 1290 and then again from the mid-17th century.

Jewish Museum

With displays about the history and traditions of British Jews, the Jewish Museum celebrates the lives of individuals making their mark in fields as varied as medicine, broadcasting, sport, and popular music. It’s well worth a visit.

Jamme Masjid

Nowhere else is there a building like our next ‘J’ – the Jamme Masjid. Near to London’s former docks along the river Thames, the East End has a unique heritage as a social melting pot that bears witness to several transformational waves of immigration. This building started out in the 1740s as a French Protestant church, then became a Jewish synagogue in the 19th century, and since the 1970s has been a Muslim house of prayer. The Jamme Masjid epitomises vibrant multicultural London, helping explain its development into the global cultural and commercial powerhouse we see today.

Jellied Eels

The natural bounty of the Thames and the seas around Britain has kept Londoners fed. ‘J’ is for jellied eels that once provided a popular meal for ordinary Cockney families.

Eels are gutted and chopped, then boiled in a broth with herbs and cooled in their own gelatin. Give them a try – perhaps in a traditional pie-and-mash shop or look out for a jar on sale in specialist fish shops, delis, or online. By the way, connoisseurs say that a dash of vinegar and white pepper elevates the flavours.

London’s food and drink scene still offer a tempting variety of tasty delights, as befits the city that claims to have created the combination of fish and chips celebrated as Britain’s national dish.

St James’s Palace

At the top end of the pecking order, hunting deer was a favourite pastime of royalty. King Henry VIII acquired land in Westminster that included a hospital dedicated to St James, our next ‘J’. Over the following five centuries Henry’s red-brick Tudor hunting lodge in his private deer park evolved into St James’s Palace. It was London’s principal royal residence for many years and even now retains its status as the official base of the royal court. The palace’s courtyard provides the backdrop for one element of the ever-popular Changing the Guard ceremony.

St James’s Park

On the south side of the palace, St James’s Park extends towards the current principal royal residence – Buckingham Palace. Its 57 acres include a lake, trees, lawns, flowerbeds, and waterfowl that make this one of central London’s most enjoyable public parks. One of the more unexpected sights is a flock of pelicans first established 350 years ago!

On the north side of St James’s Palace, look out this gold-coloured coat of arms above the entrance to wine and spirit merchant, Justerini & Brooks. Called a ‘Royal Warrant’, it is displayed with understandable, if understated pride. This is because it shows that they are a trusted supplier to one of the three senior royal households – HM the Queen (as shown here), or the Prince of Wales, or, until his death in 2021, the Duke of Edinburgh. More than 800 businesses offering various products or services hold a Royal Warrant and many are based in the district close to the palaces.

Yes, as Dr. Johnson said, …’ there is in London all that life can afford.’ These are just some of the tourist attractions that begin with the letter ‘J’.

My name is Mark King. Check out my profile at our website guidelondon.org.uk and please subscribe to our YouTube channel  and join us as we explore the A-Z of Guide London.

PUBLISHED 2016 IN UK AND N AMERICA: ‘The Blue Badge Guide’s London Quiz Book’. Available in good bookshops in paperback, also on Amazon and as an e-book. 

‘I would like to thank you for an absolutely fascinating walk, with so many connections to explore over the…

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Guide London A - Z: Letter A London Landmarks And Tourist Attractions

How many London tourist attractions can you name that start with the Letter A? Blue Badge Tourist Guide Nick Salmond kicks off our Guide London A - Z video series highlighting some popular and lesser-known tourist attractions beginning with the Letter A.

Guide London A - Z: Letter B London Landmarks And Tourist Attractions

How many London landmarks and tourist attractions can you name that start with the letter B? Blue Badge Tourist Guide Themis Halvantzi-Stringer continues our Guide London A-Z video series and provides insights on the famous and not-so-famous landmarks in London starting with the Letter B.

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