list of us tourist attractions

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the USA

Written by Lana Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

The United States is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world and some of the most recognizable icons on the planet . Many of the top attractions in the United States are bucket list destinations, drawing visitors from around the world.

Compiling a list of places to see is step one. But keep in mind, given the size of the United States, most people plan their trips to a specific region, be it the East Coast, the Southwest, the beaches of Florida or California , or outlying regions like Hawaii and Alaska.

You may want to see the city sights, or head out to the top parks and natural areas in the US . In some cases, you can easily combine the two if you plan a day trip or two.

Plenty of options await you, with incredible sights sprinkled across the country. For anyone in the enviable position of having unlimited time and resources, these are the top attractions to include on your US itinerary.

1. Grand Canyon

2. niagara falls, 3. statue of liberty, 4. white house, 5. walt disney world resort, 7. las vegas strip, 8. yosemite national park, 9. golden gate bridge, 10. times square, 11. freedom trail in boston, 12. yellowstone national park, 13. san antonio river walk, 14. kennedy space center, 15. st. louis arch, 16. glacier national park and the going-to-the-sun road, 17. mount rushmore national memorial, 18. sedona's red rock country.

This incredible natural attraction is one of the most visited places in the United States. Carved out by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon cuts deep into the landscape, creating dramatic cliff walls and ledges. Visitors standing on the rim of the canyon can see down to the canyon floor a mile below, and look out over the ridges and cliffs that run as far as the eye can see.

The South Rim , about 4.5 hours by car from Las Vegas, is the most visited section of Grand Canyon National Park. This is where you'll find a large visitor center, regular bus service along the Rim in the high season, and a walkway that runs along the canyon with numerous viewing points and platforms. Several wonderful hikes , including the Bright Angel Trail, leave from here.

The Skywalk , a glass bridge leading out over the edge of the Grand Canyon is another popular attraction. It is located at Eagle Point, on the West Rim . This area is about a four-hour drive from the South Rim, but usually less than a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas. If you are planning a day trip from Las Vegas, this area is a good option

The North Rim, which also has lookout areas, provides a different perspective. This section of the park is less visited and has limited access from November to May due to snow and winter conditions.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions at the Grand Canyon

Situated along the Canada-US border, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world . The water from Lake Erie flows into Lake Ontario over these massive waterfalls, known for the great quantity of water that is constantly tumbling over the vertical drop.

Niagara Falls is actually a set of three falls: It consists of the largest section, known as Horseshoe Falls, with a drop of 187 feet; a second section on the American side of the river, known as the American Falls, with a drop of 89 feet; and a much thinner section located next to the American Falls, known as Bridal Veil Falls, with a drop of 78 feet.

Views are good on both sides of the river, but the Canadian side gives a very different perspective and is worth a visit if you don't mind crossing the border into Canada.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Niagara Falls, when the weather is warm, gardens are in bloom, and wandering around is pleasant. Winter provides a unique opportunity to see the snow-covered shores and ice-covered railings, street signs, and trees. It's truly a winter wonderland.

On clear days, the plume of mist rising from Niagara Falls can be seen from as far away as the CN Tower in downtown Toronto, Canada, on the opposite shore of Lake Ontario.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, NY
• From New York City to Niagara Falls: Best Ways to Get There

A universal symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty is America's most familiar icon and the largest statue in the world . Standing proudly in New York Harbor, visitors can admire the statue from various points around the city, particularly Battery Park, or take a ferry right to the statue.

For people who plan to go out to the statue, options include grounds tickets, pedestal tickets, or crown tickets, which allow different levels of access to the site. One of the best options is to take a sightseeing tour and see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm

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

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States, and should be on the top of your list of things to see in Washington . This historic structure has been the home of every president except George Washington. Lafayette Park is on the north side of the White House; beyond is a pedestrian-only zone, full of interesting characters, and an excellent spot to get a great photo.

It was originally built by James Hoban in 1792 and, after being burned down by British forces in 1814, was rebuilt in 1818. Tours of the White House are free, but reservations must be made a minimum of three weeks in advance. Strict security rules are always in effect.

Official site: http://www.whitehouse.gov/

This mega amusement park in Orlando is the top family attraction in America, and has been catering to both young and old for decades. Opened in 1971, Walt Disney World has managed to maintain its relevance and its allure for children and even many adults throughout the years.

Walt Disney World Resort encompasses not only the various theme parks, it also includes water parks, Downtown Disney with shopping and theaters, and much more, from fine dining to golf. This is a place where you can spend a day or a week.

If you feel the need for a bit of sand and surf, the beaches of Florida's Atlantic coast are only an hour away.

Home to the most popular beach in the Hawaiian Islands and possibly the most famous beach in the Pacific, Waikiki has been a tourist destination for over a century. Today this area is a cross between tropical paradise and modern city.

Relaxing on this beautiful stretch of sand with palm trees blowing in the wind will certainly let you know you are in the tropics, but the high-rise buildings and busy street in behind are a reminder that you are not far from civilization. Shopping, dining, surfing, and sunbathing are all part of what makes this small section of Oahu so popular with tourists of all ages from all parts of the world.

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

Walking along the Las Vegas Strip, the main street leading through the city past the mega resorts, is like strolling through an amusement park for adults. Recreations of the New York skyline, the Eiffel Tower, the canals of Venice, and many more foreign sites line this famous street.

Beginning at one end with the Luxor Hotel, designed in a pyramid shape, a walk down the street will reveal an erupting volcano and dancing fountains, while inside the resorts are all kinds of oddities and entertainment. Many of the best things to see and do in Las Vegas are sights that can be seen for free.

One of the main attractions in Las Vegas is the constant lineup of shows. World-famous singers looking to settle down turn to Las Vegas as a home base, where they perform regularly. Unique performing groups from magic to comedy and acrobatics can also be found here nightly.

When you've had enough of the nightlife and city lights, you can still explore the nearby attractions on a day trip from Las Vegas . See nearby Death Valley National Park, Hoover Dam, or Valley of Fire State Park. Explore the desert on hiking trails around Las Vegas , some of which are just minutes from downtown.

One of America's most loved parks, Yosemite National Park is one of the best places to visit in California , particularly for nature lovers. Famous sights, like the incredible granite domes of El Capitan and Half Dome, have to be seen in person to fully appreciate their grandeur. The massive waterfalls that tumble off sheer cliffs from mountain snowfall or sudden summer rainstorms are another of the park's highlights.

Yosemite National Park is full of activity-based things to do that include hiking, climbing, walking, and horseback riding. Hiking trails in Yosemite lead to some of the most scenic areas and are a good way to escape the crowds at lookouts.

For those less inclined to be physically active, the sheer natural beauty of Yosemite can be enjoyed from a picnic table over a leisurely home-packed lunch. You can also see the highlights on a driving tour through the park.

Accommodation is limited in the park to several lodges and a number of very nice campgrounds . Outside the gates, more options are available.

Arching across San Francisco Bay, joining San Francisco and Marin County, the Golden Gate Bridge has been a California icon since it was built in the 1930s. Contrasting with the blue water, the bridge's orangish-red color is an aesthetic accent that brings a unique quality to the city.

It also has a unique presence when it's shrouded in fog with just the peaks of the main towers projecting through the low-lying cloud. The bridge is approximately two miles long and part of Hwy 101 or SR 1. If the day is clear, one of the best viewing spots is on Conzelman Road, located in Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in San Francisco

Bustling Times Square, famous for its flashing billboards, New Year's Eve count down, and constant throngs of people, lies at the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This intersection, in normal times, is really about the energy one feels when standing on the corner as taxi cabs rush by and lights flash overhead, rather than any individual site on the square.

While it is an interesting place to visit during the day, it is probably best seen at night to experience the full impact.

Boston's Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking route that leads past some of the city's most important historical attractions. A line of red bricks, inlaid in the sidewalk marks the route, making it an easy way for tourists to find their way around.

Information on the trail and the sites can be found at the Visitors Center in the Boston Common , which is a good place to start your tour. Sites along the Freedom Trail include the State House, Old State House, the Old Granary Burying Ground, Old City Hall, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and many more.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston

Yellowstone National Park is home to a huge ancient volcano, which has resulted in a dramatic landscape and awesome natural phenomena. Geysers and hot springs, along with incredible waterfalls along the Yellowstone River are just some of the attractions drawing in huge numbers of tourists each year.

The park, the oldest national park in the USA, is also home to all kinds of wildlife, with free-roaming bison, bighorn sheep, antelope, black bears, and grizzly bears.

The park is also a wonderful place to camp, with a total of 12 Yellowstone campgrounds containing 2,000 sites.

Read More: Visiting Yellowstone National Park: Attractions, Tips & Tours

San Antonio's River Walk is a beautiful location and a great place to spend some time, whether you are looking for a place to wander, enjoy a meal, or look for souvenirs. Stretching along the San Antonio River in the heart of the city, this pedestrian area is lined with restaurants and outdoor dining areas, with everything from casual to fine cuisine.

Small boats meander along the river and scenic arching bridges complete the tranquil scene. Large old trees drape over the river and walkway providing shade. The River Walk also features a variety of entertainment, with occasional live music and seasonal events.

Official site: http://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

For those who have ever dreamed about what it would be like to blast off into space, a trip to the Kennedy Space Center is a must-do. The spacecrafts of NASA along with the history of space exploration make for an entertaining and educational experience. This is a popular attraction with all ages and one of the top things to do in Florida .

You may think that your visit will be a quick one; see a few spaceships and then head on your way. However, many people are surprised when they become fully engrossed in their visit and end up spending most of the day at the center.

Things to see include the rocket garden, the real Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Heroes and Legends exhibit, and the Journey to Mars exposition, along with many others.

Official site: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/

This famous "Gateway to the West" in St. Louis is both symbolic and eye-catching. Rising above the city, gleaming in the midday sun and illuminated at night, the arch can be seen from miles away on the otherwise flat surroundings.

It was built in the early 1960s and stands in Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park . Elevators offer easy and scenic transportation to the top of the arch where visitors are treated to great views out over the city and surroundings.

Official site: https://www.gatewayarch.com/

Montana's Glacier National Park offers some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the United States. Mountains, lakes, glaciers, valleys, and waterfalls combine to form a spectacular alpine landscape.

One of the best ways to truly appreciate the terrain is from the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. This narrow road, hugging the mountain side as it winds its way up and over the 7,747-foot Logan pass, opened in 1932.

Due to the elevation and climate, the road is only open during the summer months. The sights along this road are superlative, and you'll likely find yourself stopping at handy pullouts to soak it all up.

Glacier National Park also has some unique historic lodges, including the East Lodge, with it's huge timbered interior. The park is also a top hiking destination in the state. Hiking trails lead to wonderful alpine vistas if you're willing to put in a bit of effort.

The park is relatively isolated, so most people plan to visit for a few days. Accommodation is available in the historic lodges and hotels in West Glacier, and if you feel like camping in Glacier National Park , 13 campgrounds are available.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

Read More: Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park

If you find yourself in South Dakota, don't miss a chance to see Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Towering above the surrounding forest are the faces of four US Presidents: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt.

This incredible achievement was created by one man, John Gutzon de la Mothe Borglum, and upon his death, finished off by his son Lincoln. The hard work of carving giant heads out of stone started in 1927 and continued on for many years until its completion in 1941.

The national memorial is a popular attraction, especially in the summer. Try to plan to arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Just a wonderfully scenic two-hour drive from Phoenix, this small city has quickly become one of Arizona's top places to visit .

Its beautiful setting, in among the red rocks, makes it perfect for a day trip from Phoenix , but it makes an even better vacation destination. Plan on spending at least a night or two to enjoy all Sedona has to offer. The town has some fantastic restaurants as well as spas and luxury resorts in and around town.

Sedona has a bit of everything when it comes to keeping busy: fantastic hiking , mountain biking , and camping , all coupled with a quirky vibe that makes a trip here fun for everyone.

Sedona is a year-round destination, but is especially popular in the spring, when the trees burst into bloom and you get the occasional desert rain storm.

Read More: Top-Rate Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Sedona

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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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The 100 Most Popular American Tourist Destinations

There's a whole big beautiful planet out there — but some of its most alluring attractions exist practically in America's backyard. America is blessed with bustling cities, gorgeous deserts, and breathtaking parks from sea to shining sea, but which ones do people love the most? 

In order to compile our list, we started by consulting government agencies, including the National Park Service, as well as existing rankings both in print and online. From there, we narrowed it down to the absolute must-visit destinations based on historical relevance, cultural significance, beauty, and overall appeal. From statues and buildings to canyons and harbor towns, these are the 100 most popular American tourist destinations.

1. 9/11 Memorial, New York

The National September 11 Memorial in New York City exists to remember the 2,977 people who died in the terror attacks on September 11, 2001, at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. It also honors the six people who were killed in the World Trade Center bombing on February 26, 1993. All of their names are inscribed on bronze panels. The memorial has identical pools where the Twin Towers once stood. Each spans nearly one acre each, and they feature the largest man-made waterfalls in North America. 

2. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is 47,000 acres of recreational land located primarily on Maine's Mount Desert Island. It's a mostly mountainous, wooded area with rocky beaches, and it's home to the highest rocky headlands on the Atlantic coastline. Every year, more than 3.3 million people visit to go birdwatching, boating, camping, hiking, and mountain climbing.

3. Alcatraz Island, California

A 15-minute ferry ride takes visitors to Alcatraz, just over a mile offshore from San Francisco, California. The 22-acre island is home to an abandoned federal prison and the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast. It's also the site of a historic, 18-month occupation by a group of Native American activists called Indians of All Tribes. You may recognize Alcatraz from popular culture, as it's appeared in several movies, including "The Book of Eli," "X-Men: The Last Stand," and "Catch Me If You Can," as well as video games like "Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 4" and "Call of Duty: Black Ops II."

4. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

If you say you've never seen Antelope Canyon on your Instagram feed before, you're lying. This sandstone canyon — located on Navajo land near Page, Arizona — is extremely popular with photographers because of the tranquil shapes in the rock formed by flash flooding. Though the corridors are very tall, the width is very narrow. Catch beautiful beams of direct sunlight in the upper canyon (the entrance is at ground level and requires no climbing) or opt for a challenging hike in the lower canyon. Visitors can enter only with a Navajo guide.

5. Arches National Park, Utah

Arches National Park is in Eastern Utah, just north of Moab. It features more than 2,000 sandstone structures (it has the highest density of natural arches in the world) including the renowned Delicate Arch, which can be seen on Utah license plates. There are over 76,000 acres in total for adventurers to enjoy backpacking, biking, camping, hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, stargazing, and more.

6. Balboa Park, California

Balboa Park in California was named after Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa in honor of the Panama-California Exposition, a fair that celebrated the opening of the Panama Canal and San Diego for being the first American port of call for ships sailing north after passing westward through the canal. Today, guests can enjoy gardens, walking paths, museums, theaters, restaurants, shops, and the famous San Diego Zoo.

7. Bellagio Hotel and Casino, Nevada

The Bellagio is an insanely gorgeous luxury resort, hotel, and casino on the Las Vegas Strip in Nevada. Vacationers can gamble, shop, eat, hang out at the pool, party the night away, or ogle the incredible acrobats and entertainers in Cirque du Soleil. Whether you're watching from inside or out, you must see the Fountains of the Bellagio, a mesmerizing water show with synchronized music and lights. It runs for 15 minutes, and every show is free.

8. Big Sur, California

Big Sur is an undeveloped mountainous coastline in Central California stretching 71 miles between Carmel Highlands and San Simeon. People from all across the world come here to gawk at redwood forests and the big, blue Pacific Ocean. It's estimated that the region gets just as many visitors per year as Yosemite National Park. Go birdwatching to spot condors (the largest flying land birds in the Western Hemisphere) or hike to waterfalls and beautiful beaches. In the summer, you can even tube down the Big Sur River and have a barbecue in any of the area's state parks.

9. Brooklyn Bridge, New York

The Brooklyn Bridge connects Brooklyn with Lower Manhattan. It's one of the oldest roadway bridges in America and the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the entire world. Today, it's one of the most iconic parts of the New York City skyline. Travel by car or take a stroll on the elevated pedestrian walkway. Just watch out for bicyclists!

10. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon National Park exists in Utah's Garfield and Kane counties, but believe it or not, it's actually not a canyon. Rather, it's a bunch of natural amphitheaters and towering hoodoos (tall, thin spires) formed from red, orange, and pink rocks by frost and stream erosion. The best times to come here are in summer and fall. Winter temperatures fall below freezing, and there are snowstorms well into spring.

11. Canyonlands National Park, Utah

Canyonlands National Park features canyons, mesas, buttes, fins, arches, and spires. It's located in Utah's high desert and is split into four parts including the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Green and Colorado Rivers. While they look close together on a map, no roads connect them directly. It takes anywhere from two to six hours by car to get from one to another, and because of this, visitors usually visit just one area in a single trip.

12. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod in southern Massachusetts is an extremely popular vacation spot for tourists in the summer, mostly for beaches and boating. Go whale-watching, swimming, kayaking, biking, birdwatching, fishing, golfing, hiking, shopping, or sightseeing. The possibilities are endless. There are also some pretty great breweries and wineries in these parts.

13. Carnegie Hall, New York

Carnegie Hall is a concert hall in Manhattan just south of Central Park. It's one of the world's most highly regarded venues for both classical and pop music. Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, George Gershwin, and the Beatles have all played here. In all, the property houses three auditoriums: Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, Zankel Hall, and Weill Recital Hall. It's one of New York City's last large buildings originally built completely of masonry without a steel frame.

14. Central Park, New York

Central Park is the most visited urban park in America with approximately 38 million visitors per year. It's also one of the most filmed locations in the world, so if you're lucky you might make a cameo in the latest TV show or movie. There's truly so much to do within the confines of this 843-acre recreational space in New York City. Visitors can enjoy ice skating on various rinks, catch a ride on the carousel, visit the zoo, or enjoy Shakespeare in the Park. There are also tons of ponds, walkways lush with foliage, and sports facilities.

15. Chicago Bean, Illinois

This sculpture is formally called "Cloud Gate," but everyone calls it the "The Bean" because ... well, it looks like a giant, shiny silver bean. Artist Anish Kapoor created this in 2006 by welding 168 stainless steel plates together, but it's so well polished you can't see the seams. You've probably seen it on your Instagram feed, as it's a popular Chicago tourist attraction , and the mirrored contours can create neat photos.

16. Coney Island, New York

Coney Island is a neighborhood in southern Brooklyn. It's famous for its sandy beach and boardwalk featuring food stands, bars, playgrounds, and amusement rides. It's also home to the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, which kicks off every year on the Fourth of July. In the off-season, check out the aquarium, skating rink, or baseball stadium, which is home to the Mets' minor league team, the Brooklyn Cyclones. It's the perfect place to get away from New York City life for the day.

17. Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley lies in the Great Basin on the border of California and Nevada. Its name sounds a tad extreme, but it's really not that gruesome. It's true that Death Valley is the hottest place in North America, though. Temperatures average over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer but can reach well over 120. It's also the driest and lowest national region on the continent, but many nearby peaks have snow on them, and once in a blue moon, there's rain and wildflowers take bloom. Just make sure to travel with plenty of water and salty foods or sports drinks to maintain proper electrolytes.

18. Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

This national park features 6 million acres of forest, tundra, and snowy mountains in central Alaska. Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley) is North America's tallest peak at 20,310 feet. There's only one road here. Stay on course or trek somewhere far on a hike. As far as wildlife goes, you can see moose, sheep, bears, caribou, wolves, birds, and small mammals like foxes, red squirrels, and snowshoe hares.

19. Disneyland, California

Anaheim, California's beloved Disneyland is the only park built to completion under the direct supervision of Walt Disney. With 18.3 million visitors each year, it's the second most visited amusement park in the world after Magic Kingdom at Disney World in Florida. Disneyland's nine districts include Main Street, U.S.A. (home to Sleeping Beauty Castle), Adventureland, New Orleans Square, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Mickey's Toontown, Tomorrowland, and the newest addition, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge.

20. Disney World, Florida

Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, contains water parks, resorts, hotels, golf courses, camping grounds, four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios) and an outdoor shopping center called Disney Springs. It's estimated that 52 million visit every year.

21. Ellis Island, New York

Between 1892 and 1954, more than 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island in New York Harbor. In 1965, the island was made part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument, and the main building reopened as a museum in 1990. Annually, 2 million visitors ferry in from New York and New Jersey to tour the immigration museum and surrounding property. There's an abandoned contagious disease hospital here, too, but that's closed to the general public.

22. Empire State Building, New York

The Empire State Building is on par with the Eiffel Tower as one of the most recognizable and iconic buildings in the world. The 102-story building is the sixth-tallest skyscraper in the U.S., and each year, approximately 4 million tourists head up to the 86th- and 102nd-floor observation decks for stunning aerial views of New York City. Passersby can also watch the festive lights on the tower from below or from a distance. They change colors (from a palette of 16 million shades) for seasonal events, holidays, and cultural happenings.

23. Everglades National Park, Florida

Everglades National Park protects 20 percent of the original Everglades in Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Collier counties. It's the largest tropical wilderness in America and the third-largest park after Death Valley and Yellowstone. Every year, a million visitors come here to camp, hike, canoe, kayak, geocache, bike, fish, and catch a glimpse of rare and endangered species including manatees, crocodiles, and Florida panthers.

24. Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Massachusetts

Faneuil Hall is a vibrant, mixed-use marketplace located near the waterfront of the Charles River in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. This fan-favorite tourist destination hosts more than 70 retailers, from restaurants and pubs to shops and the renowned Quincy Market Colonnade. Outside on the cobblestone, you'll find street performers, musicians, and people in full body paint standing as still as statues. Wait, is that a statue? 

25. Fisherman's Wharf, Washington

In the 1800s, Chinese and Italian fishermen swarmed to San Francisco by the bay to sell Dungeness crab to a rapidly growing population caused by the gold rush. Though it's more of a tourist attraction now, people still actively fish here. There are a ton of fresh seafood restaurants at Fisherman's Wharf, some of which are accessible by way of the extremely popular Pier 39. This is a great place to take children who might enjoy visiting the aquarium, riding the carousel, or watching the California sea lions sunbathing on wooden docks.

26. Florida Keys, Florida

The Florida Keys is a 110-mile string of coral islands off the southern tip of the Sunshine State. Tons of people flock here to sit on a beautiful beach and relax with a drink in hand, while others venture out into the big blue on Jet Skis and speed boats. Other popular activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and snorkeling.

27. Fremont Street, Nevada

Fremont Street is one of the most famous destinations in downtown Las Vegas, Nevada. There's so much glitter and glam. Everywhere you look there are flashing lights. Check out the Neon Museum (dedicated to preserving vintage neon signs) or take a free photo with a million dollars in cash at the iconic Binion's Gambling Hall. Oh, and if you want to see a piece of the Berlin Wall (yes, the actual Berlin Wall), head into the men's bathroom at Main Street Station.

28. Gateway Arch, Missouri

The Gateway Arch is symbolic of St. Louis, Missouri. The 43,000-ton concrete and stainless steel structure is the tallest arch in the world and the tallest manmade monument in the Western Hemisphere. Ogle it from below or take a tram ride 630 feet up to the top to see as far as 30 miles away to the east and west.

29. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is in northwestern Montana on the border of the U.S. and Canada near Alberta and British Columbia. The park stretches over more than 1 million acres, including two mountain ranges, 130 lakes, 1,000 plant species, and hundreds of animals, including grizzly bears, moose, mountain goats, wolverines, and Canadian lynxes.

30. Golden Gate Bridge, California

This picturesque, red suspension bridge is an internationally recognized symbol of San Francisco. It connects the city with Marin County, California, over the Golden Gate strait. Travelers can drive, bike, or walk across. The best time to visit the Golden Gate Bridge is in September and October because the weather is comfortably warm. It's not suggested that people go in July and August because it's cold and windy.

31. Golden Gate Park, California

This urban park in San Francisco, California comprises more than 1,000 acres in the shape of a rectangle — not unlike New York City's Central Park, but it's 20 percent larger. Approximately 13 million people visit Golden Gate Park each year, making it the fifth most visited park in America. Take it all in on foot, bike, or Segway. Some attractions include the Japanese tea garden, bison observatory, flower conservatory, windmills, carousel, and aquarium.

32. Graceland, Tennessee

The late King of Rock and Roll once owned this 13.8-acre estate in Memphis, Tennessee. Before passing, Elvis Presley's daughter Lisa Marie Presley owned Graceland, but she didn't live there. In 1982 (five years after the passing of Elvis), the mansion was opened as a public museum, and in 2006, it became a National Historic Landmark. Welcoming more than 650,000 visitors per year, it's the second most visited house in America after the White House.

33. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is located in northwestern Arizona. It's 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and more than a mile deep in some places. The North Rim is closed during winter months (December 1 through May 15), but when it's open, you can go for a day hike, ride a mule, or take a scenic drive. The South Rim is open all year. Here, you can learn about the canyon's history and culture from park rangers, see a museum, watch a film, walk, hike, bike, ride a mule, drive, go whitewater rafting, and more.

34. Grand Central Terminal, New York

Grand Central Terminal is the third-busiest train station in North America after Penn Station and Toronto Union Station. Here, people can travel in and out of New York City by bus, train, or subway. Apart from everyday commuters, tourists venture here to see the romantic architecture and interior design. The main concourse is often seen in movies or on TV. If you've never been, you may recognize it from "Gossip Girl," "Armageddon," "Men in Black II," "I Am Legend," and "The Avengers." An animated version also appeared in the 2005 DreamWorks film "Madagascar."

35. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park in northwestern Wyoming is home to northern parts of Jackson Hole and major peaks of the Teton Range in the Rockies. Explore the alpine terrain, lakes, or the Snake River. There are 310,000 acres in total perfect for backcountry camping, biking, birdwatching, boating, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. In the winter, the park is a popular place to go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

36. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

There are two active volcanoes in this Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Just 45 minutes south of Hilo are Kīlauea, the world's most active volcano, and Mauna Loa, which is actually the largest active volcano on Earth and the second largest overall after the extinct undersea Tamu Massif. Tourists can take in the breathtaking volcanic landscapes, craters, petroglyphs, deserts, and rainforests.

37. Hollywood Walk of Fame, California

There are more than 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk of California's world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. They span 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street. The historic landmark pays homage to people in the entertainment industry. Some fictional characters have also been honored, including Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Kermit the Frog, Shrek, Godzilla, and Lassie.

38. Hoover Dam, Nevada

The Hoover Dam stretches across the Black Canyon of the Colorado River on the border of Nevada and Arizona. The 726-foot dam holds back the waters of Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the U.S. by capacity. Construction on the wall began in 1931 during the Great Depression, and it officially opened in 1936. While it was originally called the Boulder Dam, it was renamed after President Herbert Hoover in 1947. Today, visitors can take a tour of the dam's powerplant any time between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m.

39. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park is just east of Los Angeles, California. It's named after the twisted and spiky Joshua trees that grow in the Mojave Desert. The Colorado Desert also exists within park limits, as well as a portion of the San Bernardino Mountains. The landscape is great for driving down backcountry roads, backpacking, birdwatching, camping, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, photography, and stargazing.

40. Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California

The massive freshwater Lake Tahoe straddles the border of California and Nevada. It's about 2 million years old, making it one of the 20 oldest lakes in the world. It's also the second deepest in the country after Crater Lake in Oregon. An estimated 2.7 million people visit each year for stunning panoramic views, summer recreation and winter sports like downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snowmobile riding.

41. Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

The Las Vegas Strip is about 4.2 miles of restaurants, resorts, hotels, and casinos. It's not actually in Las Vegas, though. It's just outside the city limits in Clark County, Nevada. People from all over the world come here to relax, party, shop, gamble, and golf. The strip is home to several Cirque du Soleil shows and musical residencies.

42. Lincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C.

The Lincoln Memorial is open 24/7. It was built to remember America's 16th president, Abraham Lincoln. It's right across from the Washington Monument on the west end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The Greek-inspired building has large, white columns on the outside with murals and a giant statue of Lincoln on the inside. On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech here.

43. Mackinac Bridge, Michigan

Mackinac Bridge connects Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, stretching from St. Ignace to Mackinaw City. The 26,000-foot roadway crosses the Straits of Mackinac between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. A surplus of tourists use the bridge to get to the Upper Peninsula in the summer, but others seek out the bridge itself to appreciate it in all its glory (and snap a few pictures while they're at it).

44. Mall of America, Minnesota

The Mall of America is a giant shopping center in Bloomington, Minnesota, just outside the Twin Cities. It is the largest mall in the country and the 12th largest in the world. Every year, about 40 million people visit its 520 shops, 50 restaurants, and aquarium. There are more than 28 amusement rides, and the entire first floor is dedicated to Nickelodeon Universe, the nation's largest indoor theme park.

45. Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

Monument Valley is part of the Colorado Plateau. It's on the border of Arizona and Utah. Although this is a popular tourist destination, there are basically just canyons, red sand, tall buttes, and the biggest blue sky you've ever laid eyes on. It looks pretty much exactly how you'd imagine the Wild West. Tourists can take a drive down a 14-mile dirt road to see the Mittens, Three Sisters, John Ford's Point, Totem Pole, Yei Bi Chai, and Ear of the Wind. Other guided tours are available to reach Mystery Valley, Hunts Mesa, and more. If you want, you can even see it all on horseback.

46. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore features sculptures of four former presidents carved into the Black Hills near Keystone, South Dakota. Every year, more than 2 million visitors come to view George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, whose stone heads measure 60 feet each.

47. National Mall, Washington, D.C.

The National Mall is the two-mile stretch of green between the United States Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. Every year, the park sees about 24 million tourists who are also visiting Smithsonian museums, art galleries, memorials, statues, and other landmarks.

48. Navy Pier, Illinois

The 3,300-foot-long Navy Pier juts from the lakeshore in downtown Chicago, Illinois. An estimated 2 million people visit yearly to sightsee and experience the shops, amusement rides, parks, gardens, and restaurants. Every Wednesday and Saturday of the summer, there's a fireworks show over Lake Michigan, which guests can enjoy from the dock or aboard an evening cruise.

49. Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls is made of three waterfalls — Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls — on the border between Ontario and New York. It's part of the Niagara River, which flows from Lake Erie into Lake Ontario. Most people visit in the summertime during the day or night. Floodlights allow a clear view of the falls when it's dark out. The most popular attraction is the Maid of the Mist boat cruise, which takes passengers into the basin of Horseshoe Falls, the most powerful waterfall in North America.

50. Pike Place Market, Washington

Seattle, Washington's Pike Place Market is one of the oldest, continuously running, and public farmers markets in America (and a tourist trap worth visiting). It features a rainbow of retailers selling antiques, comics, collectibles, fresh produce, crafts, coffee, and cannabis paraphernalia. Tourists adore the fish market, where employees toss giant fish to one another at great lengths. The first-ever Starbucks store is here, too.

51. Redwood National and State Parks, Washington

On California's Del Norte Coast, Jedediah Smith and Prairie Creek State Parks combine with Redwood National Park to cover 139,000 acres, an area that is home to the tallest trees on Earth. There are no hotels or motels in the parks, so take a hike and pitch a tent in the redwood forest. Other recreational activities include horseback riding, mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing.

52. Rockefeller Center, New York

Rockefeller Center is a complex of buildings in New York City. Here, you'll find gardens, shops, and restaurants, as well as Radio City Music Hall and NBC Studios, where "Saturday Night Live" and "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" are filmed. Head to the Top of the Rock for stunning views on the observatory deck, or brave the crowds during the holiday season when the gargantuan Christmas tree lights up by the skating rink.

53. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is in north-central Colorado, about 75 miles from the Denver International Airport. The region offers spectacular mountain and lake views, wildflowers, and 300 miles of hiking trails. This environment offers close-up views of wildlife such as bighorn sheep, birds, elk, and mule deer.

54. San Diego Zoo, California

The San Diego Zoo in California's Balboa Park houses 700,000 plants and more than 3,500 animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies, which includes leopards, anacondas, camels, cheetahs, alligators, elephant, giraffes, and more. It's the most visited zoo in the country, clocking in at 4 million ticketholders per year.

55. Sequoia National Park, California

Some of the world's largest trees can be found in Sequoia National Park in Tulare County, California. In fact, the biggest one in the world is here, and it goes by the name General Sherman. The massive sequoia is 275 feet tall, 25 feet wide, and 52,500 cubic feet by volume. In addition to these monster trees, the park features canyons, caverns, foothills, and mountains. Limited Wi-Fi and cellphone coverage will have you feeling at one with nature.

56. Smithsonian, multiple locations

Cultural and research centers, a national zoo, and 19 museums make up the Smithsonian Institution. Eleven of the museums are on the National Mall, two are elsewhere in Washington, D.C., two are in New York City, and one is in Chantilly, Virginia. Admission for all is free, excluding the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum in New York.

57. South Street Seaport, New York

South Street Seaport is in lower Manhattan along the East River. This historic New York City district features some of the city's oldest architecture, as well as modern shops, restaurants, and bars. The seaport has been a popular place for filming. You may recognize it from "I Am Legend," "Godzilla," or "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York."

58. Space Needle, Washington

The Space Needle is a symbol of Seattle, Washington. At a soaring 605 feet tall, the tower is built to withstand winds up to 200 miles per hour and earthquakes up to a 9.0 magnitude. Visitors can travel up to the upper observation deck for unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains and bay. There's also a lower-level observation deck called "The Loupe," which has the world's first and only rotating glass floor.

59. Statue of Liberty, New York

The Statue of Liberty is one of America's most iconic landmarks and is recognized as a symbol of freedom to people around the world. The massive, green copper statue was gifted by France in 1886, and today, tourists ferry over from both New York and New Jersey to marvel at her beauty.

60. The Alamo, Texas

The Alamo is the site of a famous battle in during Texas' war for independence from Mexico. In February 1836, thousands of Mexican troops beseiged the fort, but the Alamo's 200 defenders (including the famous frontiersman Davy Crockett) were able to fend them off for 13 days before ultimately losing the fight. Today, visitors can take guided or self-guided tours of the mission to learn more about its history.

61. The High Line, New York

The High Line is a 1.45-mile-long elevated public park on the west side of Manhattan. It's built on the abandoned New York Central railroad. The walkway features lots of trees and other plants, art installations, decks, overlooks, and other various passageways. The High Line typically welcomes food vendors during summer months, but Italian restaurant Santina is open all year round at the park's southern end.

62. The Hollywood Sign, California

The iconic Hollywood Sign sits on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles, California. Each letter is 45 feet long, spanning a total 352 feet altogether. It's illegal to walk right up to the sign (a police officer is stationed there 24/7), but tourists can hike the trails above and below it, or simply view it from practically anywhere in the city.

63. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

New York City's Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as "the Met," is the largest art museum in America, and with nearly 7 million annual visitors, it is the third most visited in the world. There are more than 2 million permanent pieces separated into 17 different cultural departments.

64. Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Washington, D.C.

The Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C., is dedicated to the Founding Father and third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. The monument has a marble staircase and large columns. A 19-foot-tall, 10,000-pound statue of Jefferson is at the center of the building's interior. An excerpt from the Declaration of Independence and other writings are inscribed on the walls.

65. Times Square, New York

Times Square is the heart of New York City and "The Center of the Universe." It's a major tourist destination because of all the flashy billboards, bright lights, Broadway musicals, art, shops, and restaurants. The world's most famous New Year's Eve countdown happens here, with about 1 million people packed into NYC's Times Square . It's estimated that 330,000 people cross through the area every day, accounting for 50 million visitors annually.

66. Union Station, Washington, D.C.

This station is a major transportation hub in Washington, D.C., with several railways connecting metros such as Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. It's the headquarters for Amtrak, but it also services other commuter railways and buses. Union Station is also home to a huge number of restaurants and other retailers.

67. United States Capitol, Washington, D.C.

The Capitol Building in Washington D.C. is the focal point of the legislative branch and a symbol of the American government. The building has been a meeting place for the House of Representatives and the Senate for the last two centuries. Today, it's also an art and history museum. Visitors can explore the building or even watch Congress in session.

68. Universal Studios Hollywood, California

Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park in California's San Fernando Valley. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is here (and other themed rides), as well as the world-famous studio tour, which gives parkgoers a dramatic, behind-the-scenes look at how movies are made.

69. Venice Beach, California

This isn't your average beach. People from near and far come to Venice Beach in California to watch street performers, shoot hoops, surf, shop, eat, skate, break a sweat at the outdoor gym, and drink with their toes in the sand. It features a promenade, a fishing pier, Muscle Beach (the birthplace of the physical fitness boom), a bike trail, and a recreation center for beach volleyball, paddle tennis, skating, and handball.

70. Washington Monument, Washington, D.C.

At 555 feet tall, the Washington Monument is the world's tallest obelisk. It can found east of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The marble structure was dedicated to the nation's first president, George Washington. Fifty American flags fly at the base 24 hours a day.

71. White House, Washington, D.C.

The White House is a mansion in Washington, D.C., where the president and first family live. Anyone visiting the nation's capital can go on a self-guided tour of the historic building, but a reservation must be made ahead of time by submitting a request through your Member of Congress.

72. World War II Memorial, Washington, D.C.

The World War II is on the National Mall between the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. It consists of 56 pillars, two arches, and a large fountain created to honor American civilians and those who served in the military during World War II. The site is open to the public 24/7, and approximately 4.6 million tourists visit annually.

73. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho

Yellowstone was the first national park in the world. The park's 2.2 million acres of land cover parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Its most famous feature is the Old Faithful geyser, which erupts every 45 to 125 minutes. An estimated 4 million visitors arrive here annually to camp, hike, bike, boat, fish, ride horses and llamas, ski, snowshoe, snowmobile, and take in the wildlife. Grizzly and black bears, bison, elk, wolves, bighorn sheep, and moose are just a select bunch of the area's residents.

74. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is in California's Sierra Nevada mountain range. It covers about 748,000 acres of land featuring cliffs, valleys, meadows, waterfalls, streams, lakes, mountains, glaciers, and ancient sequoia groves. Most visitors stay within Yosemite Valley, which has great hiking trails and mountaintop views.

75. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park is in southwestern Utah near the town of Springdale. Take short or long walks through trails in the uber-popular Zion Canyon or Kolob Canyons. Guests can also go rock climbing, horseback riding, camping, biking, birding, canyoneering, stargazing, and boating down the Virgin River. 

76. 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Illinois

Visitors looking for the best views of the Windy City can head up to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for a stunning panoramic perspective. The deck sits on the 94th floor of 875 N Michigan Avenue, located in the middle of the city and just a few blocks from Lake Michigan. Visit the attraction during the day for a clear sight of the skyline and breathtaking horizon, or head to the deck at night for sunset views and to watch the city light up. Adrenaline junkies can also try TILT, an exhilarating ride that tilts the entire body (contained safely in a full-length window) over the streets of Chicago.

77. Guggenheim Museum, New York

The Guggenheim may be best known for its distinctive round, smooth-looking facade, but there's a lot to discover inside its walls, too. The unique architecture of the Frank Lloyd Wright Building continues inside with a magnificent skylight, triangular staircase, and other one-of-a-kind design features. When you're done marveling at the building, visit one of the museum's rotating exhibitions or take a peek at its permanent collection of 8,000 pieces of art. The Guggenheim also hosts events, such as opera and ballet performances, as well as classes for all ages.

78. French Quarter, Louisiana

The French Quarter is a historic neighborhood in New Orleans dating back to 1718, and just as its name sounds, the area has a French flair rarely found on this side of the Atlantic. There's no shortage of things to do in the Vieux Carre (another name for the French Quarter). Stop by one of the district's many museums or traditional homes to get a taste of New Orleans' history. Alternatively, explore the sights outdoors, making sure to hit up St. Louis Cathedral, Pirate's Alley, and the French Market. Don't forget to take the Algiers Ferry for views of the French Quarter from the water.

79. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Mesa Verde National Park, located in Southwestern Colorado, is a lot more than beautiful mountains and open skies. The park stands out for its 4,400 recorded archaeological sites, including ancient dwellings from the Pueblo community that once called it home. The national park is made up of 81 square miles, and you can easily spend a day or two hiking and exploring. To make the most of your visit, camp at the Morefield Campground or book a stay at the park's Far View Lodge. For full access to the cliff dwellings, be sure to book a tour in advance.

80. Kennedy Space Center, Florida

You may not be able to take a trip to space whenever you want, but the next best thing might just be a trip to the Kennedy Space Center on Florida's Merritt Island, a one-hour drive from Orlando. One of the most exciting to-do list items at the center is watching a live rocket launch, but even if there are no launches during your visit, you're still in for a treat. The visitor complex includes a Hall of Fame area, conversations with real astronauts, a tour of the Firing Room responsible for the Apollo 8 launch, and even a ride that simulates what it feels like to be blasted into outer space.

81. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina/Tennessee

You don't have to go west for amazing mountain ranges. The Appalachian Mountains offer stellar terrain and untouched greenery, and the range's Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best places to experience this unbeatable slice of nature. According to the National Park Service , the Great Smoky Mountains is the country's most visited national park. The area is accessible from both North Carolina and Tennessee and offers camping grounds, hiking trails, and plenty of wildlife. When exploring on foot, visitors should watch out for the estimated 1,900 black bears that call the national park their home.

82. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

A cave might put off some claustrophobic travelers, but Mammoth Cave is expansive enough to feel welcoming even to those who despise small and dark spaces. The National Park Foundation notes that the Kentucky attraction is the longest cave system in the world, spanning over 400 miles. However, most tourism is limited to a 10-mile stretch. Underground cave tours are the area's selling point, where groups are taken into the caves to explore the dark and windy trails safely together. Nature lovers will also find opportunities for hiking, canoeing, fishing, and horseback riding nearby.

83. American Museum of Natural History, New York

Located in New York City's Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History boasts an impressive collection of more than 30 million research specimens and one of the largest fossil and insect collections in the world. That might be why a whopping 5 million people visit it every year. The museum offers exhibitions that'll fascinate guests of all ages, from its life-sized ocean animal displays to the jaw-dropping T-rex skeleton. Expect a number of temporary exhibitions in addition to the museum's permanent fixtures.

84. Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Hawaii

A visit to Hawaii's O'ahu is sure to include beach days and sightseeing in Waikiki, but no trip to the island is complete without stopping by the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. The site marks the spot where battleships were sunk and destroyed during World War II. In particular, visitors are invited onto the USS Arizona Memorial, built right over the sunken USS Arizona ship, which contains the 1,177 crewmen who succumbed to the attacks on Pearl Harbor. Though the memorial may be somber, it serves as an informative and moving reminder of past tragedy. Pearl Harbor also offers museums and various monuments to commemorate the events that took place there and the lives that were lost.

85. Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley is a region in California comprised of five towns — American Canyon, Napa, Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga — meaning there's no shortage of places to explore in this destination. However, Napa Valley is perhaps best known for its hundreds of wineries. Wine lovers can enjoy the valley's many tours and tastings. There are also breweries and distilleries for those who are passionate about beer and other spirits. Even if you don't imbibe, you'll find relaxing sights and activities (how about a spa day or a bit of golfing?) that still make Napa Valley worth a visit.

86. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Inside Arizona's Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is Horseshoe Bend, a landmark canyon that seems to jut out of the water in a unique horseshoe shape. The site formed from one of the many twists and turns of the Colorado River, resulting from shifts in tectonic plates. The lone canyon poking out from behind the river makes for an awe-inspiring visual and the perfect backdrop for mid-hiking selfies. For those looking to take in more breathtaking canyon sights, Grand Canyon National Park is located just nine miles away.

87. St. Augustine, Florida

Sun, beaches, and a bit of history — St. Augustine has it all. This Florida city was founded in 1565, making it the oldest settled town in all of the U.S. Tourists can sense St. Augustine's legacy in its European-style buildings and historic sites, like the Castillo de San Marcos fortress. For visitors craving something more contemporary, there are also hip food spots, concerts at the St. Augustine Amphitheater, and — in true Florida fashion — an alligator farm (the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park), where you can meet every crocodilian species known to man.

88. Rodeo Drive, California

Many of the U.S.'s top destinations have shopping nearby, but sometimes the shopping area is a destination in itself. That's the case with Rodeo Drive, a street in Beverly Hills dotted with luxury brand shops. Top designers such as Chanel, Balenciaga, and Gucci have locations on the highly regarded block, but you don't have to spend big money to enjoy the neighborhood. Rodeo Drive is an ideal spot for catching a glimpse of a celebrity or just taking in the sights of the street's signature palm trees and window displays.

89. Atlantic City, New Jersey

A getaway for East Coast city dwellers and a destination in its own right, Atlantic City welcomes more than 27 million visitors each year. The seaside town built its boardwalk in 1870, and since then, it's become a summery spot complete with beaches, casinos, shopping, and nightlife. The boardwalk continues to be a must-visit spot and is home to the Steel Pier, where you can find a Ferris wheel, rides, games, and carnival-style food. Think of Atlantic City as New Jersey's Las Vegas, mixed with beachy vibes and all the fun you'd find at the county fair.

90. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park is a park containing Washington's Mount Rainier and its diverse array of flora and fauna. The mountain stands as the tallest volcanic peak in the contiguous United States and remains an active volcano. Despite being watched carefully for possible eruptions, Mount Rainier and the surrounding park invite visitors to explore its picturesque waterfalls, numerous hiking trails, and unmatched wildflower meadows. The national park is also perfect for travelers who like to keep moving — depending on the season, try kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, or foraging for berries and mushrooms.

91. Waikiki, Hawaii

Travelers heading to Honolulu will likely find themselves staying in Waikiki, a tourist-friendly neighborhood that still offers a taste of island paradise. Waikiki has many of O'ahu's big hotels and resorts, plus the amenities you'd typically expect in an urban area: restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and more. Of course, most people don't visit Hawaii for the hotels or dinner spots — they come for the white sand beaches and pristine waves, and Waikiki doesn't disappoint. Millions of people soak up the sun at Waikiki Beach each year, whether they're taking surf lessons, cooling off in the water, or just enjoying the relaxing atmosphere.

92. Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Often considered one of the best ski resorts in the U.S., Park City Mountain Resort in Utah is a skier's dream destination. It boasts over 7,000 acres of skiable land, making it the largest ski area in the country. Those who prefer to keep their feet firmly planted can snuggle up in a wintertime yurt or unwind at the RockResorts Spa. In the warmer months, visitors can partake in numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. Park City Mountain Resort is easily accessible from the town of Park City, making it a breeze to explore the charming Main Street and other nearby attractions.

93. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

The phrase "national park" usually brings to mind images of wildlife and greenscapes, but White Sands National Park defies expectations with its white sand dunes made of gypsum sediment. The park can be found in New Mexico's Tularosa Basin, an area that also holds military missile tests. Therefore, guests should check in advance for possible park closures during scheduled tests. White Sands offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, such as camping and cycling, but an especially memorable way to spend time in the park is by sandboarding and sand-sledding down the smooth, powdery dunes.

94. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Ohio

No matter what type of music you choose to listen to, a trip to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is worth the trek to Cleveland, Ohio. In fact, the museum is considered to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire state. Cleveland's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame offers a crash course in popular music, with exhibits showcasing some of the biggest names in the business, as well as a look at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees. There's also an impressive collection of memorabilia, such as a David Bowie performance outfit, Johnny Cash's guitar, and Kurt Cobain's official death certificate.

95. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach was once called one of the most beautiful places in the world by National Geographic, and a trip to the Oregon spot will quickly reveal why. Cannon Beach may not have year-round sunshine or tropical views, but it offers a charm all its own. The beach is rocky, with the giant Haystack Rock grabbing the most attention. The structure adds character to the beach's horizon line while also acting as a resting spot for puffins and other birds. Away from the coastline, travelers can soak up the town's artsy culture in one of its galleries and studios.

96. Savannah Historic District, Georgia

Savannah might sit in the shadows of Georgia's larger cities, such as Atlanta, but the town's personality-rich Historic District shouldn't be overlooked. The area follows the same grid street plan originally laid out in 1733, but that's not the only relic you'll find in Savannah. Packed into its blocks are small preserved parks, historic homes, and museums celebrating the city's heritage. Visitors should be sure to stroll down Jones Street, a residential stretch found right in the heart of the Historic District. The street is lined with romantic, colonial-era houses that'll have you questioning what year it really is.

97. Devils Tower, Wyoming

Wyoming's Devils Tower became the very first U.S. national monument, and with its peculiar shape and cultural significance, it's easy to see why it warranted special federal protection. Historically, the monument was central to numerous folklore stories passed down by indigenous tribes. Today, it's still considered a sacred site by many Native American communities. Rock climbers also flock to the tower to try scaling its unique vertical ridges. However, in June, the park encourages a voluntary hiatus for climbing, as June is a particularly sacred month in the Plains Indians' religious calendar. The landscape is also ideal for hiking (catch a glimpse of Devils Tower, along with some wildlife, from one of the surrounding trails) and camping.

98. Museum of Modern Art, New York

The Museum of Modern Art — often shortened to "MoMA" — is an art museum in New York City that has been showcasing modern and contemporary art since its inception in 1929. In the last century, the museum has built an impressive 200,000-piece collection of paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other works of art. Along with several other New York-area museums, MoMA is practically a destination on its own, and an expert at The New York Times notes that visitors should set aside four or five hours to work their way through it.

99. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg, Virginia was established in 1699, making it one of the first planned cities in the U.S. Those days may be long in the past, but tourists can still relive the city's colonial era by making a trip to Colonial Williamsburg. Unlike some other old-timey towns, such as Savannah or St. Augustine, Colonial Williamsburg remains separate from the city center. Visitors can purchase an admission ticket to access the museum's sites and attractions, including its historic government buildings and authentic craftspeople. Stay in one of the Colonial Williamsburg accommodations to keep the nostalgia going overnight.

100. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Badlands National Park is full of eye-catching canyons and rock formations, colored in bands of orange, white, and even purple. However, that's not all you'll find in this must-visit park. The magnificent 244,000 acres also include a mixed-grass prairie and sights of the animals who thrive there. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, rattlesnakes, sheep, and other wildlife. When you're done scoping out the various species living in the Badlands, go hunting for fossils. The national park is considered to have some of the best fossil beds in the world.

The top 12 places to visit in the USA in 2024

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

New York City never gets old, not with so many exciting and dynamic neighborhoods to explore © LeoPatrizi / Getty

The best thing about visiting the USA can be summed up in one word: variety. This expansive country contains an incredible number of travel experiences that would take a lifetime to complete – try wandering through the redwoods, breathing in deep gulps of sea air on glimmering beaches, or immersing yourself in the underground art scenes in some of the world's most famous cities.

Whether you're a nature lover looking for wide open spaces and snow-covered peaks or a culture fiend who can't get enough of museums and galleries, the USA has something for you. To help stem the overwhelm of options, these are our 12 favorite places to visit in the USA in 2024.

1. New York, New York

Best place for art and architecture

A city that looms large in American lore, New York continues to live up to its hype. A global center for art, fashion, finance, music and food, the Big Apple will never leave you feeling bored. Sip sunset cocktails on luxurious rooftops, mosh at local punk shows, marvel at world-class art in famous museums, or indulge in the best food you've ever had at a hole-in-the-wall favorite.

Planning tip: New York has so much to offer, but resist the urge to see it all on your first trip. Break things down by neighborhood or borough , or perhaps even by interest.

2. San Francisco, CA

Best for counter-culture

San Francisco contains multitudes, offering an urban travel experience with a distinctly West Coast flavor: take in breathtaking bay views at Golden Gate Park , wander the alleyways of the country's largest and oldest Chinese neighborhood , pay homage to LGBTIQ+ heroes in the Castro, or dive into cutting-edge art at SFMOMA and a plethora of local galleries.

3. National Mall in Washington, DC

Best for national history

Washington DC's National Mall represents the center of American political life and distills its cultural history into a two-mile strip of iconic monuments and the country's most famous museums. The mall contains ten Smithsonian museums – the National Museum of Natural History , the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Museum of American History, among others – plus landmarks including the National Gallery of Art, the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building.

4. New England

Best for forest drives

Want to meander on mountain roads beneath brilliant forest canopies and savor tasty lobster and coastal views all in the same trip? New England is the place to be. Explore the quaint villages and cranberry bogs of Cape Cod , snuggle into a cabin in the mountains of Vermont , or dive into all the seafood you can eat in Portland, Maine . And if you visit in autumn, prepare yourself for some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the country.

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Best for West Coast exploration

The Pacific Coast Highway – technically three highways linked together – connects sunny San Diego with moody Seattle , delivering epic West Coast experiences along the 1600-mile journey. Stay at kitschy motels in coastal towns, admire the cliffs of Big Sur , marvel at the tidepools in Oregon , and explore Washington's Olympic National Park .

Planning tip: Sections of the Pacific Coast Highway run along sea cliffs prone to rockslides. Always check road conditions before setting out in case of any unexpected closures.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for foodies and art lovers

There's no place in the world like New Orleans  – we promise. A vibrant cocktail of Indigenous, Caribbean, African, French and Spanish influences, this city possesses a unique magic that keeps people coming back for more. Dive into its legendary Creole cuisine, revel in its lively festivals, and immerse yourself in a world-class music scene – this is the birthplace of jazz, after all.

Planning tip: New Orleans's coastal location makes it susceptible to hurricanes from June through October, with the most active months being August and September.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for Indigenous history and culture

Nicknamed the "City Different," Santa Fe is rooted in American history while still keeping up with the times. A cultural melange of Indigenous, Spanish and Mexican influences, this city is home to numerous historical sites – like the 400-year-old Plaza – and a cutting-edge art culture that features a strong contingent of independent artists and the original Meow Wolf , a game-changing immersive art installation.

8. Chicago, Illinois

Best metropolis for midwestern charm

Chicago contains all the hallmarks of a great American city – excellent food, multicultural neighborhoods , top-tier museums – with a distinctly midwestern twist. Spend your days lounging next to the ocean-like Lake Michigan, catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field , or have an evening of laughs at Second City , the launchpad for greats like Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey.

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Best for big peaks and winter sports

If you want to see the quintessential mountains of the American West, the Rockies in Colorado should be your first stop. Rocky Mountains National Park is a logical starting point, but in truth, there are so many different ways to access this dynamic mountain range – hit the slopes in ski hubs like Vail , Aspen and Telluride, drive the scenic byways of the San Juan range, or pitch camp in one of the state's numerous national forests.

Planning tip: Unless you're from somewhere with similar elevation, you might feel the effects of altitude throughout the Rockies; stay extremely hydrated, take your time on hikes, and skip the alcohol.

10. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina and Virginia

Best for east coast mountains

While the Rockies tend to get a lot of press – for good reason – the USA's oldest mountain range is a must-see. The Blue Ridge Mountains make up the southern third of the Appalachian mountain chain, and the lush forests wrapped around these rolling hills make for incredible blue-green vistas from the region's many ridges and balds. Dive into the numerous day hikes, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway , or hike a section of the storied Appalachian Trail .

11. The Everglades, Florida

Best for wildlife watchers

The importance of the Everglades can't be overstated – this sprawling wetland is an International Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a national park, thanks to the diverse profusion of flora and fauna that live here. Paddle through the coastal estuaries and camp among mangroves, or whiz through the numerous waterways via airboat. All the while, keep your eyes peeled for wading birds, manatees, and of course, alligators and crocodiles.

Planning tip: For the best experience, come prepared for the elements: sunscreen and bug spray are essentials.

12. Southwestern Utah

Best for geology lovers

If you want to visit one place in the US that sums up the grandiosity of its natural history, southwestern Utah is the place to go. Home to five of the country's most spectacular national parks, Red Rock Country puts the region's geological past on display with a dazzling amount of artistic flair. Hike the peaks and valleys of Zion and Bryce Canyon , or marvel at the crimson, ochre and amber palette in the cliffs and canyons of Capitol Reef and Canyonlands . And if you want a special treat, watch the sun rise over the sandstone masterpieces at Arches .

Planning tip: Large swaths of this region are extremely remote and sometimes lack cell service, both on the road and on the trail. Always share your plans with others and bring plenty of water in case of emergencies.

This article was first published May 2021 and updated February 2024

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

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

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 , 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:

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100 Best Tourist Attractions in the US

• 5 Pinterest

The US is a land of endless wonder, and every traveler has their own dream destinations tucked away on their wish list. At TourScanner, we’ve got a bit of an insider’s peek. We see where the daydreams of our users take them and which spots spark their wanderlust the most.

Having sifted through a sea of searches on our platform, we’ve handpicked a list that stands out. Think of the electric hum of Times Square, the mesmerizing glow of the Las Vegas Strip, or the serene allure of the Florida Keys.

So, without further ado, here’s a roundup of top tourist attractions in the US that you, our adventurous travelers, can’t wait to explore.

1 – Central Park, New York City

A verdant oasis amidst the towering skyscrapers of New York City, Central Park is an urban marvel. Over 840 acres, this magnificent park was designed in the 19th century, offering city dwellers a much-needed escape from the bustling streets.

It is more than just a park; it’s a sanctuary where New Yorkers and tourists alike can row boats, enjoy picnics, watch street performers, or simply lounge on the vast meadows. Central Park isn’t just the lungs of Manhattan; it’s the soul of the city, where memories are made and stories unfold.

• Central Park tours

See also: Fun things to do in Central Park

2 – Walt Disney World, Orlando

The magical world of Walt Disney comes alive in Orlando, one of the premier tourist attractions in the US. Constructed in 1971, Wald Disney World was designed to be the happiest place on earth.

Every guest is transformed into a child again as they enjoy a classic form of family entertainment, entranced by the characters and stories that have captivated generations.

See also: Best theme parks in Orlando , Best tourist attractions in Orlando , Fun things to do in Orlando

3 – Times Square, New York City

Often dubbed “The Crossroads of the World,” Times Square stands a dazzling showcase of New York’s vibrancy. With its origins in the late 19th century, Times Square transformed from a modest commercial hub to a global symbol of urban dynamism.

Illuminated by neon lights and colossal digital screens, the square is a sensory spectacle, alive with energy 24/7. There’s more to it than just a tourist draw.; it’s the heartbeat of Manhattan, where art, commerce and entertainment converge, captivating travelers and locals alike.

• New York City tours

Hot tip: Fancy seeing yourself on one of those giant screens? Just like we did at TourScanner, seize the chance with platforms like TSX liveboard, enjoying a personal 15-second feature amidst the city’s sparkle.

See also: Fun things to do in Times Square

4 – Las Vegas Strip

The pulsing heart of Nevada’s Sin City, the Las Vegas Strip is an emblem of the dynamic energy and vibrant nightlife that Las Vegas offers. Initially growing in prominence in the mid-20th century, the Strip boasts some of the most luxurious hotels, casinos, and resort properties.

Now, tourists from all over are drawn to it by its variety of entertainment options. With its captivating neon signs, mind-blowing shows, and the promise of never-ending adventures, a walk down the Strip is like a journey through a world of wonder.

• Las Vegas tours

See also: Fun things to do in Las Vegas , Best tourist attractions in Las Vegas

5 – National Mall, Washington D.C.

The heartbeat of American history resonates through the National Mall in Washington, D.C.  From the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, it has witnessed numerous pivotal moments and speeches that have shaped the nation.

The huge open space is surrounded by monuments and museums, providing a representation of democracy and freedom and a hub for tourists eager to learn about the history of the country.

• Washington D.C. tours

See also: Fun things to do in Washington D.C. , Best tourist attractions in Washington D.C. , Best museums in Washington D.C.

6 – Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles

Immersing its guests in movie magic, Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles offers a unique blend of thrilling rides and live-action shows.

Built in 1915, Universal Studios is a theme park that captures the essence of Hollywood’s golden era, providing fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the film industry while entertaining with its multitude of attractions.

• Universal Studios Hollywood tickets

See also: Fun things to do in Los Angeles

7 – Hollywood Walk of Fame

Embedded into the sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Walk of Fame celebrates over a century of entertainment history. Established in 1960, each of the iconic terrazzo and brass stars pays homage to the luminaries of entertainment – from cinema to music, television to radio.

Travelers from all around come to tread the same path as legends, searching for the stars of their idols. It’s a tangible connection to the glitz and glamor of the entertainment industry, and a must-visit to pay respects to the artists who’ve shaped pop culture.

• Hollywood tours

See also: Fun things to do in Hollywood , Best tourist attractions in Los Angeles

8 – Balboa Park, San Diego

A cultural oasis in central San Diego, Balboa Park boasts a rich tapestry of gardens, museums, and architecture. Built in 1868, this extraordinary park is a testament to the city’s appreciation for arts.

Wander amidst its lush landscapes, and you’ll be rewarded with artistic treasures and performances that reflect San Diego’s diverse heritage.

• Balboa park tours

See also: Fun things to do in San Diego

9 – Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

One of the most recognizable images of San Francisco is the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge. Completed in 1937, the Golden Gate suspension bridge is not only a feat of engineering but also a testimony to perseverance and human vision.

Gazing upon its fiery orange hue against the backdrop of the vast Pacific makes it a must-visit spectacle for every traveler.

• San Francisco tours

See also: Best family things to do in San Francisco with kids , Best tourist attractions in San Francisco

10 – Grand Canyon, Arizona

Nature’s magnum opus, the Grand Canyon in Arizona, is proof to the timeless artistry of geological forces. Spanning over millions of decades, an awe-inspiring landmark that is a reminder of Earth’s grandeur and history.

And while here, one shouldn’t miss the reliable eruptions of Old Faithful, a testament to the raw power and beauty of nature.

• Grand Canyon tours

See also: Fun things to do at the Grand Canyon , Best Grand Canyon tours , Grand Canyon Skywalk Tickets Price – All you Need to Know , Compare Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours , Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas

11 – Empire State Building, New York City

Soaring into the Manhattan horizon, the Empire State Building embodies the ambition and spirit of New York City.

An art deco skyscraper, which was finished in 1931 and formerly stood as the highest structure built to this day, represents the city’s quick rise to prominence on the worldwide stage. The panoramic views from its observatory deck remain unparalleled, capturing the city’s endless horizons.

• Empire State Building tickets

See also: Empire State Building Tickets Price , Fun Things to Do in New York City

12 – Pike Place Market, Seattle

In the center of Seattle lies Pike Place Market , a bustling hive of vendors, artisans, and entertainers. Established in 1907, it’s considered America’s oldest continuously operated public markets. While the bustling market offers a sensory overload, people are often intrigued by the peculiar Gum Wall, a sticky attraction that has become an unconventional piece of art.

• Pike Place Market tours

See also: Fun things to do in Seattle WA

13 – Broadway, New York City

The glitz and glamour of Broadway in New York City are synonymous with world-class theatrical performances and rank among the top tourist attractions in the US. Formed in the 18th century, it remains the epicenter for theater enthusiasts, delivering a smorgasbord of emotions through its diverse plays and musicals.

A visit to the city is incomplete without experiencing the magic that unfolds on the Broadway stages.

• Broadway show tickets

See also: Best Broadway shows & Musicals to See Right Now , List of Broadway Theaters – Which One is Best?

14 – 9/11 Memorial, New York City

A solemn tribute to resilience and remembrance, the 9/11 Memorial in New York City stands on the grounds where the Twin Towers once rose.

Honoring the lives lost in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, a somber reminder of the city’s resilience and cohesion in the face of misfortune, the reflecting pools and the names of the fatalities are etched on to it.

• 9/11 Memorial tours

See also: 9/11 Memorial & Museum Tickets Price

15 – Disneyland Park, Anaheim

Walt Disney, a brilliant visionary, created Disneyland Park in Anaheim. He envisioned it as a magical kingdom where families could share magical experiences. In the present, it serves as both the company’s iconic center and the first of its many theme parks.

Often termed the “Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland has carved a niche for itself in society. Annually, travelers flock from all corners to relive cherished tales and create new stories of their own.

See also: Best Theme Parks in the World , Best Theme Parks in California

16 – Rockefeller Center, New York City

The Rockefeller Center , found at the beating center of Manhattan, is not merely an architectural achievement. It was supposed to be a big commercial district that represented the city’s rise as a strong worldwide economic power when it was initially developed in the 1930s.

The Rockefeller Center, perhaps best known for its famous Christmas tree and skating rink, represents the diverse cultural and commercial fabric of New York today. Whether they are there to take in works of art of the highest caliber or simply to take in the stunning views from the Top of the Rock.

See also: Best Tourist Attractions in New York City , Fun things to do in New York City at Night

17 – Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

Stretching along the southern shore of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach is the epitome of paradise, with its shimmering sands and azure waters. Historically, it was a retreat for Hawaiian royalty, offering an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty.

Now, tourists from all over flock to Waikiki Beach. It is is more than a a beach; it is a nexus of nature and history that offers a memorable experience that lasts long after the sun has set on its horizon.

See also: Fun things to do in Waikiki, Hawaii , Best things to do in Hawaii – The Ultimate Bucket List

18 – Madison Square Garden, New York City

Tucked amidst the towering skyscrapers of New York, Madison Square Garden stands not only as the Mecca of entertainment and sports but also as one of the premier tourist attractions in the US.

To step inside is to immerse oneself in a legacy of epic moments and events. A visit offers much more simply entertainment; it’s a journey through history at one of the most legendary venues in the city.

• Madison Square Garden tours

See also: Best indoor activities in New York City when it Rains

19 – Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills in South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is a testament to the indomitable spirit of a nation. Commissioned in the 1920s, this grand sculpture captures the visages of four U.S. presidents, each representing a crucial epoch in the shaping of the nation.

A trip to Mount Rushmore is not only to experience the magic of art and engineering but also a pilgrimage to celebrate the essence of America. With the gaze of Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln always in the foreground, the monument is a enduring beacon of democracy and hope.

See also: 100 Travel Bucket List Ideas

20 – The Alamo, San Antonio

The Alamo , formerly known as Misión San Antonio de Padua, is a potent representation of the Texan character and its tenacious independence. It was built in the 18th century and played a key role in the Texas Revolution in 1836.

People are still drawn to San Antonio by the iconic mission, which honors the valiant Texans who fought for freedom. The depth of the Alamo’s history and the fortitude of those who once lived there leave every guest speechless.

See also: Fun things to do in San Antonio

21 – Statue of Liberty, New York City

Gifted to the United States by France in 1886, the Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island, guarding the entrance to New York Harbor. A figure of freedom and democracy, she was a beacon of hope for millions of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, searching for a better life in a new land.

With her torch held high, she represents the light of freedom shining across the Earth. Tourists from every corner of the globe visit Lady Liberty, not only to admire her grandeur but to experience the essence of what America represents.

• Statue of Liberty tours

See also: Statue of Liberty Last Minute Tickets , Best Family things to do in New York City with Kids

22 – Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/ North Carolina

Enveloped by a mesmerizing mist that gives the mountains their ‘smoky’ appearance, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an amalgamation of nature’s beauty and tranquility.

Stretching across the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina, the park is renowned for its biodiversity, ancient mountains, and preserved landmarks. Nature enthusiasts gather here, not just for its picturesque views but to experience the serene melodies of nature and rich cultural heritage that resonates through the vast landscape.

• Great Smoky Mountains tours

See also: Fun things to do in Asheville , Fun things to do in Gatlinburg , Fun things to do in Pigeon Forge

23 – The Space Needle, Seattle

Built as the centerpiece of the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle is a recognizable representation of Seattle. Soaring 605 feet into the city’s skyline, this observation tower offers panoramic views of downtown Seattle, the Puget Sound, and on clear days, the distant Mount Rainier.

Beyond its impressive height, the Space Needle is a work of design that exemplifies the city’s ongoing pursuit of progress and innovation.

• Space Needle tickets

See also: Fun & Unusual things to do in Seattle

24 – Hoover Dam, Nevada

The Hoover Dam , a feat of contemporary engineering, is a testament to human ingenuity and strength. Located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, the dam was erected during the Great Depression, providing jobs to thousands.

It now provides both an essential water storage facility and a significant hydroelectric power generator. Its enormous structure and Lake Mead’s expansive views, the country’s largest reservoir.

• Hoover Dam tours from Las Vegas

See also: Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas , Best things to do in Las Vegas During the Day

25 – Yosemite National Park, California

Carved by the forces of nature over millions of eons, Yosemite National Park is a showcase of geological wonders and pristine wilderness. Stretching across California’s Sierra and Nevada mountains, its landscape boasts of towering waterfalls, giant sequoias, and awe-inspiring cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome.

With its vast biodiversity and striking beauty, Yosemite is not just a national treasure but a sanctuary for all who seek a connection with nature’s grandeur.

• Yosemite National Park tours

See also: Best National Parks Near Las Vegas , Best National Parks in the World

26 – Dollywood, Tennessee

The crown jewel of the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood is the brainchild of the iconic country music star, Dolly Parton. Established as an ode to the rich heritage of East Tennessee, a theme park that seamlessly combines thrilling rides with a hearty dose of Southern musical heritage.

Today, Dollywood is a must-see attraction where countless travelers each year immerse themselves in the Southern charm and exciting musical performances. It also demonstrates Parton’s devotion to her heritage.

• Dollywood tickets

27 – The High Line, New York City

The High Line , a linear park elevated over the West Side of Manhattan by a former freight railroad, is a representation of urban renewal. Once a symbol of industrial might, today it has transformed into a green oasis in the midst of the city’s concrete jungle.

Offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the city horizon providing a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple below.

• High Line tours

28 – San Diego Zoo

Over 3,500 unique and endangered species are housed at the San Diego Zoo , a refuge concealed in Balboa Park. Started as part of a conservation effort, standards for habitat design and animal care have been the hallmark of the zoo.

Nowadays, a window into the scope of the world’s biodiversity, encouraging people to go across continents on an educational adventure while taking in the spectacular beauty of species from all over the planet.

• San Diego Zoo tickets

29 – Cedar Point, Sandusky

Boasting a record-breaking number of roller coasters, Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, is a haven for adrenaline junkies. Often referred to as the “Roller Coaster Capital” an amusement park that as been a staple for thrill-seekers for over a century.

With its prime location on the shores of Lake Erie, where people are treated to not only heart-pounding rides but also panoramic views of the lake, an unmissable attraction for both adventure and nature lovers.

See also: Fun things to do in Cleveland

30 – Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Alcatraz Island, which is located in the brisk waters of San Francisco Bay, is a somber reminder of America’s penal past. It was once the residence of some of the most notorious criminals in the country, but it has since evolved into a hub of mystery and contemplation.

The island is now visited by tourists who embark on an unforgettable journey through its eerie corridors, fascinating stories of the prisoners, and breathtaking views of San Francisco’s skyline.

• Alcatraz Island tours

See also: Best Alcatraz island tours , Alcatraz island tickets price , Alcatraz Last Minute Tickets: Day & Night Tours

31 – Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park , which spans a sizable area of southwest Utah, is a marvel of colossal geologic beauty. towering cliffs and enormous canyons in the park are evidence of millennia of wind, water, and time.

Nowadays, it is a highly procured natural sanctuary in the United States due to its breathtaking landscapes and extensive trail systems, which beckon adventurers and nature lovers alike.

• Zion National Park tours

See also: Fun things to do in Zion National Park , Zion National Park – Complete Guide

32 – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Draped over the rugged terrains of Wyoming, Yellowstone is America’s first and perhaps most revered national park. Established in 1872, it’s a living showcase of geysers, hot springs, and a myriad of ecosystems, housing a wealth of wildlife.

Often regarded as the crown jewel of the American West, the park’s mesmerizing terrains and ecosystems captivate countless travelers, a must-visit for any nature aficionado.

• Yellowstone Park tours

See also: Fun things to do in Yellowstone National Park

33 – Ark Encounter, Kentucky

A colossal tribute to the Bible’s most iconic tales, the Ark Encounter in Kentucky is an architectural marvel. The life-sized replica of Noah’s Ark follows the dimensions specified in the Bible, is a token of history, artistry, and faith.

Inside, guests explore biblical narratives while learning and awe-struck by the ancient tales. It’s not just a place of spiritual reflection but also an embodiment of dedicated craftsmanship and artistry.

34 – Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), New York City

The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) , located in the central part of New York City, is a paradise for fans of modern art. It houses an unparalleled assemblage of modern masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Dali and continues to serve as a tribute to the transformative power of creativity.

Each visit promises inspiration, as art lovers and tourists alike are plunged into color, form, and imagination.

• Museum of Modern Art tickets & tours

See also: Best things to do in Manhattan

35 – The Gateway Arch, St Louis

The Gateway Arch in Missouri is simply a technological wonder; it rises magnificently along the bank of the Mississippi River. Designed by Eero Saarinen and completed in 1965, it symbolizes a gateway to the West, celebrating the nation’s pioneering will and westward expansion.

The stainless steel monument, shimmering in sunlight and moonlight alike, offers a panoramic view of St. Louis, marking its indelible stamp an iconic American landmark.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in St Louis, Missouri

36 – Garden of the Gods, Colorado

The Garden of the Gods , a breathtaking assemblage of sandstone formations that have been organically carved over millions of decades, is located right in the center of Colorado Springs. This park exhibits the beauty of nature in its most unadulterated state, representing the splendors of the West.

It now draws people from all over who are eager to explore its paths and take in its splendor in addition to being a representation to the Southwest’s natural beauty.

• Garden of the Gods tours from Denver

See also: Best things to do in Colorado Springs

37 – Space Center Houston

At the forefront of cosmic exploration, the Space Center Houston in Texas offers a close look into mankind’s forays into the vastness of the universe.

As the official center of NASA Johnson Space Center, it showcases the legacy and achievements of US space travel. Aspiring astronauts and curious minds alike flock here to marvel at exhibits, meet astronauts, and immerse themselves in the magic of space exploration.

It is one of the top tourist attractions in the US for travelers enamored with space.

• NASA Space Center tickets

See also: Fun things to do in Houston , Fun things to do in Texas

38 – Mall of America, Minneapolis

The Mall of America in Minnesota is a popular shopping destination and a well-known representation of contemporary entertainment and retail. It is not only the largest shopping mall in the US, but also a center for adventures and experiences, covering acres.

Beyond its countless shops, it boasts an indoor amusement park, aquarium, and much more. Tourists congregate yearly not only for retail therapy but also to take advantage of the mall’s distinctive events and attractions.

See also: Fun things to do in Minneapolis

39 – The French Quarter, New Orleans

The renowned downtown of New Orleans, a living example of the diverse tapestry of cultures that have shaped the Crescent City is the French Quarter.

With its streets lined with colonial-era buildings, the sound of jazz resonating in the air, and the tempting aroma of Creole cuisine wafting through, it truly is a sensory experience like no other. Whether wandering along Bourbon Street or exploring the local markets, everyone gets immersed.

See also: Fun things to do in New Orleans

40 – Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

Spanning the East River and connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is an architectural marvel and an enduring representation of New York City.

It was the first steel-wire suspension bridge ever built and was finished in 1883. It is a symbol of innovation and tenacity. Taking in the expansive views of the city skyline and the rumor of stories that it holds. Whether at dawn or dusk, the bridge remains a captivating sight against the backdrop of the Big Apple.

• Brooklyn Bridge tours

See also: Fun things to do in Brooklyn

41 – Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston

Faneuil Hall , often referred to as “The Cradle of Liberty,” was a pivotal meeting place during the American Revolution. Located in central Boston, a famed marketplace that worked as a experience to many notable speeches by patriots like Samuel Adams and James Otis.

With its abundance of businesses, restaurants, and live entertainment, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is still a thriving center of activity currently. Because it captures the rich tapestry of American history, it is a must-see for both history buffs and shoppers.

• Boston tours

See also: Fun things to do in Boston

42 – Smithsonian Museums, Washington D.C.

The Smithsonian Institution , a vast collection of museums and galleries in Washington, D.C., serves as the guardian of America’s collective memory. Constructed in 1846 for the “increase and diffusion of knowledge,” it is now a memoir to human achievement and culture.

Guests are transported through time, from the dawn of human civilization to space exploration. From the Hope Diamond to the Apollo 11 command module, each exhibit tells a story. As one wanders the halls, it’s evident: its here where history meets the present.

See also: Fun things to do in Washington DC , Best Museums in Washington DC

43 – Fenway Park, Boston

Tucked in the heart of Boston, Fenway Park stands among the oldest ballparks in the country. Since its inauguration in 1912, it has been home to the Boston Red Sox and has witnessed some of baseball’s most iconic moments.

Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just curious, a visit to Fenway isn’t just about the game. It’s about experiencing the history, the Green Monster, and the palpable energy of fans who’ve been cheering for over a century. It’s an authentic piece of Americana.

• Fenway Park tours

44 – Wall Street, New York City

Wall Street, which is frequently regarded as the center of the world’s financial system, At the southernmost point of Manhattan, Wall Street and the neighborhoods around it provide a unique fusion of New York City history, architecture, and energy.

While here, one can marvel at the towering skyscrapers, experience the hustle of traders, or take a leisurely stroll to nearby attractions like the Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial, or the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. A journey to Manhattan isn’t complete without soaking in the essence of Wall Street, where ambition meets legacy.

• Wall Street tours

45 – Niagara Falls, New York

A breathtaking spectacle of nature, Niagara Falls is a stunning convergence of three waterfalls at the border of the United States and Canada. With thunderous roars, gallons of water cascade every second, creating mesmerizing rainbows and an unforgettable misty experience.

The falls, which are not far from New York City, have enthralled tourists for centuries. Whether witnessing its majesty from a boat, the observatory, or the numerous trails around, Niagara Falls remains a eternal proof to nature’s grandeur.

• Niagara Falls tours from New York City

See also: Best things to do in Niagara Falls , Best Niagara Falls Tours , Best Niagara Falls Boat Tours , Niagara Falls Helicopter Tours Price

46 – Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps

As iconic as the museum itself, the Philadelphia Museum of Art Steps offers an entrance to art. These steps gained widespread fame from the classic scene in the movie “Rocky,” where the underdog boxer triumphantly races to the top. They now offer a unique vantage point with views of the Philadelphia skyline while also providing a physical challenge.

Numerous guests who are compelled to imitate Rocky’s famous sprint have made its location a cultural landmark and must-see location in the center of Pennsylvania.

• Museum of Art tickets

See also: Fun things to do in Philadelphia

47 – Wrigley Field, Chicago

Wrigley Field isn’t just a baseball stadium; it’s a shrine to America’s favorite pastime. Built in 1914, an age-old park that resonates with the echoes of legendary plays and iconic Chicago players, offering an authentic slice of American sports history.

The Chicago Cubs home field; it is a enduring testimony to the spirit and tradition of baseball. Going on a vacation entails more than simply going to a game; it also entails getting a taste of what keeps American sports alive.

See also: Best Places to Visit in Chicago , Best Tourist Attractions in Chicago

48 – Historic Route 66

Often dubbed the “Main Street of America”, the Historic Route 66 winds its way through the heartland, showcasing the essence of the American road-trip spirit. Constructed in 1926, it stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, offering a kaleidoscopic view of the nation’s diverse landscapes and storied past.

Journeying along a iconic route is like flipping through pages of American history, with each mile marker telling tales of dreamers, adventurers, and travelers in search of the Great American Dream.

49 – Oracle Park, San Francisco

In addition to being a ballpark, Oracle Park is positioned on the cliff above San Francisco Bay. With its breathtaking views of the ocean and the well-known Bay Bridge, the stadium is a fusion of sports and natural beauty. It has seen legendary moments and dramatic victories as the San Francisco Giants’ home field.

But it’s not just about baseball; Visitors are drawn in by the attractive surroundings as well, making it a special place that harmoniously combines the city’s strong sports culture with its natural seaside appeal.

See also: Fun things to do in San Francisco

50 – Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

Situated on the side of Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a gateway to artistic wonders. Spanning over 5,000 eons of culture, it’s not just a museum, but a journey through time and civilizations.

From ancient relics to contemporary masterpieces, it captivates the senses and evokes a sense of wonder. Its grandiose facade and expansive galleries tell tales of human creativity, an essential stop for enthusiasts and curious minds alike in the city that never sleeps.

• Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets & tours

See also: Best Museums in the World , Best Museums in New York City , Metropolitan Museum of Art Tickets Price

51 – Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

Located in Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium stands as the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere.

First opened to the public in 2005, it’s now a testimony to marine conservation and the wonders of the aquatic realm, and became one of the top tourist attractions in the US for animal lovers.

The aquarium is home to thousands of marine species, drawing both young and old with its mesmerizing underwater displays and conservation efforts. Yearly, visitors plunge into the aquatic experience, a must-see icon of Georgia.

• Georgia Aquarium tickets

See also: Fun things to do in Atlanta , Best Aquariums in the World

52 – Cloud Gate, Chicago

An architectural marvel set amidst the urban expanse of Chicago’s Millennium Park, Cloud Gate , fondly known as “The Bean,” is among the Windy City’s most cherished modern installations.

Its smooth, mirror-like surface, which was designed by Sir Anish Kapoor, reflects the city skyline and offers a distinctive perspective that appeals to everyone.

• Chicago tours

See also: Fun things to do in Downtown Chicago

53 – The Kennedy Space Center, Cape Canaveral

Serving as the primary launch center for human spaceflight since 1968, the Kennedy Space Center in Florida is a beacon for space enthusiasts and history buffs alike. A sprawling complex that has been the departure point for numerous renowned space missions.

Marvel at the gigantic rockets, meet astronauts, and even experience the thrill of a shuttle launch simulator. It has become a representation of America’s pioneering will in space exploration and a portal to the stars.

• Kennedy Space Center tours from Orlando

See also: Fun things to do in Cape Canaveral , Kennedy Space Center Tickets Price , Fun things to do in Florida

54 – Henry Ford Museum, Detroit

Located in Dearborn, Michigan, the Henry Ford Museum is a tribute to America’s industrial revolution and the ingenious spirit of its people. Housing a rich collection of iconic vehicles, machinery, and other artifacts, the museum stands represents a reflection of a century of American innovation.

From the first-ever Ford car to the bus where Rosa Parks made her unforgettable stand, it’s a journey through the pivotal moments that have shaped the nation.

• Detroit tours

See also: Fun things to do in Detroit

55 – The Guggenheim Museum, New York City

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is not only a assemblage of works of art; it is also a work of architecture. Designed by the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, its spiral structure and unique interior space have made it a landmark in modern design.

Inside, it houses an exquisite collection of contemporary and modern art. As you ascend the spiral ramp, not only you experience a timeline of evolution but also the fusion of art and architectural brilliance.

• Guggenheim Museum tickets

56 – Arches National Park, Utah

Huddled in the rugged terrain of eastern Utah, Arches National Park is a showcase of unique geological wonders. The park boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, along with hundreds of soaring pinnacles, giant fins, and balanced rocks.

It has become an iconic representation of the American Southwest due to the influx of tourists from all over who come to awe at these natural marvels and the breathtaking desert landscapes.

• Arches National Parks tours from Moab

57 – The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is not just an educational institution but a beacon of history. Home to some of the most iconic paintings, sculptures, and installations, a museum that captures the essence of art through the ages.

From ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, every step inside offers a journey through the epochs of creativity.

The Art Institute of Chicago is a testimony to human artistic prowess and a must-visit for enthusiasts.

• Art Institute of Chicago tickets

See also: Best Museums in Chicago , Fun things to do in Chicago

58 – The Getty Center, Los Angeles

The Getty Center is a multipurpose facility located on a hill near Los Angeles. It is in and of itself a work of art with its magnificent scope, tranquil gardens, and amazing views of the city. The Center houses an exquisite ensemble of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Renowned for its commitment to conservation and education, The Getty Center attracts art lovers and casual people alike, becoming an integral part of LA’s cultural fabric.

See also: Best Museums in Los Angeles , Fun things to do in Los Angeles

59 – Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Across the heart of the Colorado Rockies, sits a haven for those seeking the raw beauty of the alpines.

Majestic peaks, verdant forests, and crystal-clear lakes dot its landscape. Numerous adventurers travel its trails annually in search of peace and excitement. Every nature lover should visit Rocky Mountain National Park because it is a celebration of nature in its pristine form, with snow-capped summits and lush valleys.

• Rocky Mountain tours from Denver

60 – Acadia National Park, Maine

Positioned along the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park is a symphony of the sea, forests, and mountains. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, from the crashing waves of Thunder Hole to the panoramic views atop Cadillac Mountain.

It’s a refuge for wildlife and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse habitats and scenic beauty, Acadia bears witness to the pristine landscapes of the northeastern United States.

61 – White House, Washington D.C.

The White House , a token of the United States’ leadership and an iconic emblem of the country’s democracy, is the official residence and workplace of the President. Initially conceived during George Washington’s era, it was completed in 1800 and has since been the residence of every U.S. president.

The White House is now a beacon of historical significance and architectural majesty, attracting tourists from all over in addition to serving as the center of American politics. That’s probably one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the US.

62 – Grand Central Terminal, New York City

Grand Central Terminal is a masterwork of architecture that stands opulently in the middle of Manhattan’s busy financial district. Commissioned in 1913, it epitomizes the height of America’s railway era with its celestial dome and opulent chandeliers.

The station not only offers a glimpse of luxury travel in the past, but also continues to vividly showcase the timeless beauty and energy of New York City in the present.

63 – Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

The unrivalled beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park captivates every onlooker with its ethereal landscapes. Located in Utah, a natural wonder that boasts of crimson-colored hoodoos, towering spires, and vast amphitheaters carved by nature.

Though not a canyon in the traditional sense, its mesmerizing formations, shaped by millennia of erosion, make it a must-visit for nature lovers and explorers. With each sunrise, the park comes alive, painting a spectacle that remains etched in the memories of those fortunate to experience it.

64 – The Field Museum, Chicago

The Field Museum is a treasure mine of historical and natural history artifacts, conveniently located in Chicago. It has been committed to advancing knowledge since its founding in 1893 and has therefore collected more than 40 million specimens.

From dinosaur skeletons to ancient Egyptian artifacts, take a journey through time, witnessing the marvels of evolution and human civilization. It’s a beacon of knowledge and exploration, an essential stop for those keen on unraveling the mysteries of the planet.

• Field Museum tickets

65 – National Museum of the United States Air Force, Dayton

The National Museum of the United States Air Force is a monument to the nation’s lengthy aviation history and is located in Dayton, Ohio. It is the largest and oldest military aviation museum, including over 360 aircraft and weapons.

Guests are transported through eras, witnessing the evolution of flight from its infancy to the marvels of modern engineering.

With its vast collection, the museum pays homage to the brave souls of the skies and the advancements that have shaped aviation history.

66 – Liberty Bell, Philadelphia

The Liberty Bell , once echoed through the streets of Philadelphia in 1776, marking the reading of the United States Declaration of Independence. Originally forged in Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London, its distinctive crack became a distinct representation of American independence.

Even now, it sits in the Liberty Bell Center in old Philadelphia. Countless people come to see in every period because of its undoubted importance and iconic imperfections, enduring of the American history.

• Philadelphia tours

67 – Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Oahu, Hawaii

Pearl Harbor , a lustrous name tinged with a somber history. It was here on December 7, 1941, that an unexpected attack jolted the United States into WWII. A important memorial that honors the lives lost and the brave souls who guarded the port.

The memorial site offers an introspective journey into history, a must-see for any history enthusiast or patriot.

• Pearl Harbor tours

See also: Fun things to do in Oahu , Best Pearl Harbor Tours , Pearl Harbor Tickets Price

68 – Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park , with its jagged mountain peaks piercing the azure skies, offers an exquisite natural escape. Situated in Wyoming’s rugged terrain, it’s a slice of wilderness that is unmatched.

The park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, shimmering glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. Nature enthusiasts flock yearly to bask in its pristine beauty, to hike its trails, and to capture its panoramic vistas. Grand Teton National Park is, without doubt, one of the US’s most breathtaking spots.

• Grand Teton National Park tours

See also: Fun things to do in Jackson Hole

69 – Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

The hallowed grounds of Gettysburg witnessed one of the most significant battles in American Civil War history between July 1 and 3, 1863. It was here that the Union emerged victorious, marking a turning point in the war.

Gettysburg National Military Park is a solemn memorial to the brave soldiers who fought on both sides. It gives time to reflect deeply on the price of freedom and unity as you are transported back in time by the vast expanse of fields scattered with monuments and markers.

• Gettysbug tours

See also: Fun things to do in Gettysburg

70 – Joshua Tree National Park, California

Joshua Tree National Park , where the Mojave and Colorado deserts converge, is a land of surreal landscapes. Famous for its namesake, the Joshua Tree, the park boasts of rugged rock formations and starlit nights that seem almost otherworldly.

Get drawn not only by its unique flora but also by its mesmerizing sunsets, and the opportunity to stargaze without the interference of city lights. A haven for artists, adventurers, and dreamers, this national park captures the imagination of California’s wild heart.

See also: Fun things to do in Palm Springs

71 – Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco

Standing proudly on the northern waterfront of San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is undeniably amongst the city’s most lively attractions. Rich in maritime history and brimming with jubilant energy, it offers a taste of San Francisco’s rich seafaring heritage.

Today, the city’s landmark, offering tourists everything from delicious seafood specialties to mesmerizing views of the Golden Gate Bridge.. With its blend of remarkable sites and modern attractions, the Wharf embodies the essence of San Francisco’s coastal charm.

• Fisherman’s Wharf tours

See also: Fun things to do in Fisherman’s Wharf

72 – Glacier National Park, Montana

The pure splendor of nature is on display in Glacier National Park , which is found in the wilds of Montana. Originally carved out by glaciers millions of years ago, the park boasts of rugged mountains, pristine forests, and over 700 glistening lakes.

Often referred to as the “Crown of the Continent”, a natural haven teems with diverse wildlife and offers an immersive experience of America’s pristine wilderness. The wild beauty of the park is a magnet for adventurers and nature enthusiasts who flock to come here annually.

73 – Denver Botanic Gardens

An oasis amidst the bustling city center of Denver, the Denver Botanic Gardens are a breathtaking portrayal of nature’s artistry. Spanning over 24 acres, these gardens offer a tapestry of plants from all corners of the globe.

The meticulously manicured landscapes, combined with the exotic ensembles, make it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Here, visitors not only experience the serenity of lush green spaces but also embark on a botanical journey that spans continents.

• Denver tours

See also: Fun things to do in Denver

74 – Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada

Straddling the border of California and Nevada, Death Valley National Park is a representation of the harshness of nature. It claims to be the hottest, driest, and lowest-lying national park in the United States.

However, amidst stark landscapes lies an unexpected array of life and beauty. From the vast sand dunes and rugged canyons to the colorful wildflower blooms, the park surprises at every turn. A shining example to nature’s resilience, Death Valley offers a unique, contrasting beauty unlike any other.

• Death Valley tours from Las Vegas

75 – Everglades National Park, Florida

Stretching over southern Florida, the Everglades National Park is a unique tropical wilderness that offers a glimpse into a delicate ecosystem. Often referred to as the “River of Grass”, a UNESCO Heritage Site that is renowned for its rich biodiversity.

From its dense mangroves to the vast wetlands, the park plays host to a multitude of wildlife, including rare and endangered species. A visit to The Everglades isn’t just a journey through a park; it’s an intimate experience of nature’s intricate dance of life and survival.

• Everglades tours from Miami

See also: Best Tourist Attractions in Miami , Best Everglades Airboat Tours

76 – Navy Pier, Chicago

The Navy Pier , built in 1916, the landmark can be found on Chicago’s Lake Michigan shore. Initially, it served as both a cargo facility for freighters and docking space for passenger excursion steamers.

It is now regarded as Chicago’s unmistakable emblem and one of the city’s top entertainment hotspots. Navy Pier proceeds to entice tourists with its lively atmosphere and unrivaled views of the Chicago skyline, including its colorful Ferris wheel and an abundance of dining and entertainment options.

• Navy Pier Wheel tickets

77 – SeaWorld Orlando, Florida

Founded in 1973, SeaWorld Orlando is a marine zoological park that offers an exhilarating mix of thrilling rides, aquatic animal exhibitions, and interactive experiences. From its early days, the park has been dedicated to marine conservation and education.

The blend of entertainment and educational experiences make SeaWorld Orlando a must-visit destination for marine life enthusiasts.

• SeaWorld Orlando tickets

See also: Cheap SeaWorld Orlando Tickets – How to save up to 35%

78 – Venice Beach, Los Angeles

Venice Beach in Los Angeles is a mesmerizing tapestry of experiences, and beach moods. When it was founded in the early 20th century, it was initially designed to be a coastal resort with a network of European-style canals.

Venice Beach is still a center for eccentricity and creativity nowadays. Here is where the vibrant energy of LA truly comes to life, from its well-known Ocean Front Walk, where street performers, artists, and vendors showcase their talents, to its muscle beach gym.

• Venice beach tours

79 – Florida Keys, Florida

A coral cay archipelago stretching into the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys is a tropical paradise like no other. They developed into the stunning islands we see currently from the time when the region’s coral reefs were thriving in antiquity.

Famous for their laid-back vibe, the Keys are a haven for those seeking pristine beaches, unique marine life, and legendary sunsets. Whether it’s diving in the coral reefs of Key Largo or enjoying the nightlife of Key West , the Keys promise an unforgettable journey.

See also: Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys

80 – The Broad, Los Angeles

Constructed in 2015, in Downtown Los Angeles, The Broad is a museum of modern and contemporary art. The museum was established by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad and features a wide variety of works from their private collection.

A fusion of architecture and art, the museum’s innovative “veil-and-vault” design capture your attention even before entering. Inside, masterpieces from some of the most prominent artists of the last five decades can be admired, making The Broad an essential stop for aficionados visiting LA.

81 – Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

The captivating Mesa Verde National Park , located in southwest Colorado, is home to some of the most well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites. These cliff dwellings, which date back more than 700 years, are evidence of the elaborate prehistoric architecture and extensive cultural heritage of the Pueblo people.

It beckons tourists from all over, captivated by its stories and the panoramic views of the high desert landscape.

82 – Miami South Beach, Florida

Miami South Beach is the pinnacle of sun, surf, and style, positioned right in the middle of Florida. Not only famed for its pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, but South Beach is also renowned for its iconic Art Deco design, pulsating nightlife and cultural scene.

A visit here is incomplete without strolling the famed Ocean Drive, ensuring a memorable experience of the Sunshine State.

See also: Fun & Unusual Things to Do in South Beach, Miami

83 – Sequoia National Park, California

A realm of giants, the Sequoia National Park situated in the southern Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is home to some of the planet’s largest trees.

Behold the majestic General Sherman, the largest tree by volume, and immerse yourself in the park’s serene atmosphere.

Beyond the colossal sequoias, the park offers mountain vistas, deep caverns, and an abundance of biodiversity, making it a haven for nature lovers.

84 – American Museum of Natural History, New York City

Positioned in the bustling city of New York, the American Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of wonders. Housing vast collections that span various scientific fields, the museum is a reflection of our planet’s history and the evolution of its inhabitants.

From life-sized dinosaur fossils to intricate dioramas, each exhibit transports visitors to a different time and space, an essential stop for anyone seeking knowledge and wonder in the Big Apple.

• Museum of Natural History tours & tickets

85 – Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico

Delve deep beneath the Chihuahuan Desert in New Mexico, and you’ll discover the mesmerizing Carlsbad Caverns National Park . A subterranean wonderland that boasts over 100 caverns, adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and an array of intricate formations.

Beyond its natural beauty, the park offers a unique spectacle at dusk, when hundreds of thousands of bats emerge from the cave, creating a sight to behold and an unforgettable memory for those fortunate to experience.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Albuquerque

86 – San Antonio River Walk

Texas’ rich history and unique culture are showcased on the San Antonio River Walk , a lush oasis below street level. It was initially designed to stop flooding, but it is now the lifeblood of the city.

The River Walk draws countless tourists with its collection of charming cafes, iconic sites, and tranquil surroundings. You will be immersed in a special fusion of tradition and modernity as you stroll alongside the meandering river, which symbolizes the soul of San Antonio.

• San Antonio tours

See also: Fun Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas

87 – Freedom Trail, Boston

Going on the Boston Freedom Trail is like going back in time and seeing the creation of a country.

A red-bricked path that connects 16 historically significant sites over a distance of 2.5 miles. Tales of revolutionaries and the passionate quest for American independence are revealed around every bend and turn.

Walking the trail, which offers far more than a important tour, its a journey into the very heart of Boston’s resilient will.

• Freedom Trail tours

88 – Chicago River

The Chicago River winds through the heart of the Windy City, a symbol of exceptional architectural achievement and urban innovation. The river, which was once a crucial route for transportation, now shows how the city has changed.

Experience a panoramic view of the famous skyline of the city as you cruise its waters. The river’s emerald sheen on St. Patrick’s Day is a sight that highlights Chicago’s vibrant fusion of tradition and innovation.

• Chicago River tours

89 – National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum reflects the essence of American frontier life and is a testimony to the tough period of the Wild West. The museum, which is located in Oklahoma, is a veritable treasure mine of relics, and exhibitions.

Visitors are taken back in time to the era of renown criminals, expert ranchers, and the unbreakable pioneer will.

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum portrays the atmosphere of American frontier life via its complex displays, which are a monument to the tough spirit of the Wild West.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Oklahoma City

90 – Indianapolis Motor Speedway

A haven for thrill-seekers and motorsports enthusiasts, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway , also known as the “Racing Capital of the World,”. Since it was built over a century ago, the speedway has hosted a number of thrilling competitions.

Every engine scream and tire screech is echoed by the thrilling past of legendary races and titanic showdowns. Whether you’re an avid traveler or a die-hard racing fan, the speedway’s intensity and history guarantee an unforgettable encounter.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Indianapolis

91 – Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Nashville

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum , located in the center of storied Music City, is the pinnacle of the country music tradition in the United States. It honors the musicians who established country music on the international scene and is committed to preserving the genre’s growing heritage.

It continues to be not only a shining example of Nashville’s musical history but also an alluring testimony to the rich history of country music. Fans swarm here to take part in a medley of legends and customs.

• Country Music Hall of Fame tours

See also: Fun Things to Do in Nashville

92 – World of Coca Cola, Atlanta

The World of Coca-Cola , which is tucked away in Atlanta’s bustling downtown, is a delicious treat for both history buffs and cola connoisseurs. It depicts the development of a straightforward beverage into a universal emblem throughout time.

Set off on a fizzy trip, learning about the history of the brand as well as the many global flavors. It’s a rousing tribute to the enduring affection for the traditional beverage and Atlanta’s rich industrial past.

• World of Coca Cola tours

93 – Big Sur, California

Big Sur is a natural wonder that stretches along the untamed Californian coastline and captures the ferocious beauty of the Pacific. It’s a little piece of paradise for explorers and lovers of nature alike with its spectacular cliffs, meandering roads, and expansive ocean vistas.

Big Sur welcomes visitors to take in its natural delights, from the lush redwood woods to the echoing whispers of the surf below. It is frequently praised as one of the finest destinations on the Pacific Coast.

See also: Fun things to do in California

94 – Reunion Tower, Dallas

Dallas’ horizon is adorned by the Reunion Tower , sometimes known as “The Ball,” and its recognizable luminous orb. The architectural wonder was finished in 1978, and it rapidly became a well-known feature of the city.

Take in the panoramic vistas since it is the center of Dallas’ cultural identity. Beyond the views, the tower’s rotating restaurant provides an unforgettable dining experience, making it a must-see when in Texas.

• Reunion Tower tours

See also: Fun Things to Do in Dallas , Fun Things to Do in Fort Worth

95 – Oriole Park, Baltimore

Oriole Park is a renowned monument for baseball fans and graces Baltimore, a bustling metropolis. With its timeless style and unwavering attitude, it brings back the glory days of baseball parks while giving guests a cutting-edge experience.

It offers an experience steeped in heritage in addition to echoing shouts and exciting games, making it a must-visit for anybody looking to grasp the essence of American baseball.

See also: Fun Things to Do in Baltimore

96 – Edge, New York City

The Edge , the tallest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, is perched high above New York City’s famous horizon. It is an architectural wonder. It guarantees a stunning experience and offers unmatched views of the expansive environment of the city.

Visitors are not only greeted with a visual spectacle when they step upon the dizzying platform, but also with a sense of grandeur, making it a must-stop for anyone looking to capture the spirit of the Big Apple from above.

• Edge tickets

97 – The Sphere, Las Vegas

The Sphere is the pinnacle of contemporary architectural excellence and is located in Las Vegas, a city renowned for its glamor and splendor. The Sphere, a relatively recent addition to the Las Vegas Strip, is an experience rather than merely a place to go.

It captures the dynamic energy of Vegas with cutting-edge acoustics and graphics. The Sphere is sure to make an impact, whether you’re there for the performance or just to gawk at its futuristic architecture.

98 – Harley Davidson Museum, Milwaukee

The Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee pays homage to more than a century of motoring history and is representative of America’s equestrian gistory. The brand’s iconic journey is traced in the exhibits, which appeal to both history buffs and bike enthusiasts.

Besides the bicycle, it also symbolizes the development of American culture and the spirit of freedom. Without exploring the fascinating history of power and tradition, a trip to Milwaukee is still not complete.

• Harley Davidson museum tickets

See also: Fun Things to Do in Milwaukee

99 – Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , which itself is located in the Pacific, is a perfect example of the untamed beauty and power of nature. The national park provides a glimpse into how the islands themselves were formed with its bubbling lava flows and ethereal landscapes.

There are craters for tourists to walk through, steam vents to see, and even unusual plants and animals to spot. The park offers the chance to engage with the Earth’s primordial forces, making a visit here one you will not forget.

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours

See also: Fun Things to Do on the Big Island

100 – Little Havana, Miami

You can enter Little Havana and be immediately immersed in a Cuban environment . A neighborhood which is a vibrant part of Miami, is teeming with activity, music, and history. Take a stroll through its streets while listening to salsa music or savor genuine Cuban food at neighborhood cafes.

The annual Calle Ocho festival features the best Latino art, music, and dance, and the murals depict stories of Cuban heritage. Little Havana is a special gem in the crown of Miami because a visit there guarantees a rich mosaic of experiences.

• Little Havana tours

See also: Fun Things to Do in Miami, Florida

Final Thoughts

We hope this curated list of the best tourist attractions in the US has sparked some inspiration for your upcoming holiday!

But which are your personal favorites? Share your top picks in the comments below.

Happy exploring!

Places To Visit in United States of America

Here are the top 100 tourist places in united states of america, 1. new york city.

1 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 275 Tourist attractions

An iconic global centre that has inspired the world with its brilliant architecture, movies, and art. Also known as the Big Apple, New York is well-known for its magnificent skyscrapers, Broadway shows and beautiful landmarks, making it the perfect destination for travellers from all over.

Best Time: Throughout the year

2. Las Vegas

2 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 117 Tourist attractions

Las Vegas - a place that brings neon signboards, iconic hotels and the legendary casinos to our minds. For the ultimate, no-limits entertainment trip, there is hardly any place in the world that comes close to Vegas. The city's bright skyline, the super luxury hotels and resorts, the world-famous ca...

Best Time: September to November

3. Los Angeles

3 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 234 Tourist attractions

Los Angeles is the hub of all activities on the famous West Coast of the United States. It is the second-largest city in the country, and one of the US's prime tourist cities. Home to the world-famous Hollywood entertainment industry, Los Angeles has become a huge tourist destination. It is a great ...

4. San Francisco

4 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 256 Tourist attractions

San Francisco is one of the most important cities on the West Coast and all of the United States. It has been a major tourist destination since the 1960s, thanks to its wide array of attractions, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge fantastic views of the San Francisco Bay and brilliant summer weather...

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Panorama of Las Vegas, Los Angeles & San Francisco

5. san diego.

5 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 282 Tourist attractions

Home to serene white-sand beaches, San Diego is popularly called 'America's Finest City'. San Diego is the second-largest city in California, while it ranks no. 8 in the list of the largest cities in the United States. With incredible weather conditions throughout the year and over 60 beaches, the s...

Best Time: March to May, September to November

6 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 153 Tourist attractions

Miami is a seaport city famous for its beaches and nightlife. This vibrant town is also referred to as the 'Cruise Capital of the World' with cruise ships from all over docking at Port Miami. Many large companies and corporate houses have its headquarters in Miami making&nbs...

Best Time: March to May

7. Washington

7 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 105 Tourist attractions

The Capital of United States, Washington, DC is a legatee of neoclassic beauty. A city which is not only famous for its museums and monuments, but also for the cultural style it embosses with its nightlife, performing art venues and trendy shops.

Best Time: September to November, March to May

8. Yellowstone National Park

8 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 9 Tourist attractions

Located across 3 states, the Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in North America and also the world. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known mostly for it's several thousand geothermal features, stunning views and the vast array of flora and fauna which are found her...

9 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 208 Tourist attractions

Seattle is the largest city in both the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of North America. The city has thousands of acres worth of green spaces and parks, making the city a perfect mix of a concrete jungle and beautiful greenery. Seattle is the third-largest port in North Americ...

10. Puerto Rico

10 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 93 Tourist attractions

Puerto Rico is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting places with the beautiful Caribbean beaches, the amazing island landscapes, the underwater experiences, and the rich Caribbean culture. Though Puerto Rico is technically a territory of the United States, the atmosphere of the Caribbean is ab...

Best Time: April to June

11. Chicago

11 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 225 Tourist attractions

Third largest city in the United States, Chicago is a metropolitan situated in the state Illinois. Beautified with the outlining freshwater Lake Michigan, the Windy City is known for its diverse and lively neighbourhoods.

Best Time: April to May, September to October

12. Honolulu

12 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 58 Tourist attractions

Hawaii's capital, Honolulu, is the most vibrant city of Oahu, with most of the population of the state living here. The city is a hub of historic landmarks, popular shopping centres, arts and cultures scenes. It's also a major hub for international business and military defence. Famou...

Best Time: April to June, September to November

13 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 216 Tourist attractions

Boston is the largest city in Massachusetts, the testifier of the American Revolution and an international hub for education. Boston takes pride in its rich history and is counted as one of the oldest cities in America. Popularly known as "Beantown", the name that's originated from Boston baked...

Best Time: April to May, October to November

14 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 255 Tourist attractions

Thriving in the arts and culture department, Dallas is the new hipster hub with its many arts districts and museums. The city has a bitter brush-in with history by being the city where John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963 and the site is memorialized at the Dealey Plaza with the exact ...

Best Time: February to March and September to October

15. Orlando

15 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 116 Tourist attractions

Orlando welcomes more than 52 million visitors every year and that's enough to define its popularity all over the world. The star of Orlando is the famous Walt Disney World, which is situated 18 miles south in Lake Buena Vista. The County seat of Orange County, Orlando is known as 'the Theme Pa...

Best Time: January to April

16. Baltimore

16 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 67 Tourist attractions

Maryland's Largest City Baltimore is the 30th most populous city in the US which is also the largest independent city. Earlier crowned as a city with high crime rates, Baltimore has now emerged as a city rich in history and culture. Lying just 40 miles away from Washington, there's a lot t...

Best Time: June to August

17 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 62 Tourist attractions

Polynesian heritage mixed with the modern American lifestyle is what makes Maui a beautiful Hawaiian island.  Maui, the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands is a popular tourist destination, mostly among North Americans. Its called the 'Valley Isle' as it sits between the east and the west vo...

18. Charleston

18 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 80 Tourist attractions

Cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and centuries-old mansions- Charleston owns all the props for a classic vintage picture. This port city's beauty shuffles different shades throughout the year, making Charleston a destination with a unique mesmerizing allure every time you visit here.

19. US Virgin Islands

19 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 9 Tourist attractions

The US Virgin Islands or USVI, are a group of islands in the Caribbean. The islands are geographically part of the Virgin Islands archipelago and are located in the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles. The USVI consist of the main islands of Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas, and many oth...

Best Time: April to June, December to March

20 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 32 Tourist attractions

Newark is a major city in the state of New Jersey, and one of the oldest cities of colonial times. It is a cultural wonderland, home to the New Jersey Performing Arts Centre that hosts some of the nation's greatest theater pieces. You can also find an extensive range of stunning American art, as wel...

Best Time: March to July

21. Houston

21 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 210 Tourist attractions

Houston is the fourth largest city of the USA, a grand, cosmopolitan city in the state of Texas. It is famous worldwide for being home to the Space Center Houston, the visitor center for the Johnson Space Centre, one of NASA's astronaut training and flight control complexes. The Houston Zoo, with ov...

Best Time: November to February

22. Fort Lauderdale

22 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Synonymous with American Spring Break, Fort Lauderdale is the south-eastern coastal city of Florida, lined with beaches, clubs, bars, restaurants and all kinds of recreational facilities one can dream of. Apart from one of the most coveted nightlifes in the world, the city is also home to an intrica...

Best Time: December to May

23. Dallas-Fort Worth

23 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex is a grand encompassment of 13 counties in North Texas, serving as the cultural and economic hub of the area, as well as the largest metropolitan area of the mainland of the United States. An international powerhouse, the area is steeped in American history, most famo...

Best Time: March to May and September to October

24 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The capital city of New York state, Albany boasts of a reputation as the cultural and economic core. Its landscape is decidedly urban and spotted by remnants of its history as a Dutch and British settlement. Albany’s land is tempered with the waters of the famous Hudson River, making it a long opera...

Best Time: May-September

25. Lansing

25 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The capital city of Michigan, Lansing exists on a cross-section of two rivers- the Grand and the Red Cedar River in the Lower Peninsula of the state. A historian’s visit to Michigan is incomplete without a stop at the capital city. Lansing boasts a reputation of being politically vital, with several...

Best Time: May-October

26. Harrisburg

26 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Much like the state it belongs to, Harrisburg is a destination firmly rooted in history, featuring several sites and landmarks holding cultural significance to Americans. Harrisburg is usually a couple days' stop in any tourist visit to Pennsylvania state with a timeless feel enveloping its old buil...

Best Time: Mid April to July

27. Philadelphia

27 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The city of Philadelphia is a national treasure, its momentousness as a historic city is central to the United States. Philadelphia is home to many firsts in the country, with every advancement in the region being traced back to this historic city. Philadelphia welcomes the first library, medical sc...

28. Frankfort

28 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The capital of Kentucky, Frankfort, lies on the banks of the Kentucky River and boasts some of the most beautiful buildings in the country. It is the birthplace of the famous Kentucky Bourbon Ball, a smooth and delicious candy and is home to important museums, cemeteries and mansions.

Best Time: ate April to early July

29. Baton Rouge

29 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Named after two Native American tribes, Baton Rouge is the capital city of lively Louisiana. The city certainly possesses the classical southern charm of its home state but is also home to several historic attractions and enjoyable activities. The state symbol is definitively the USS Kidd, an Americ...

Best Time: late February to end of May

30. Augusta

30 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The capital city of Maine is one of the least populated city capitals in the country but not without its classical Maine charm, heavy forestry and location that is an hour away from Portland. August is defined by the Kennebec River with the water body cutting through the city.

Best Time: May to September

31. Annapolis

31 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Overlooking the very heartbeat of the state of Maryland- the Chesapeake Bay- the city of Annapolis certainly stands as its definitive guardian. This city is known for its exclusive views of the charming bay and historic buildings that lend it its iconic status. As the state capital, Annapolis is the...

32 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The city which claims to be the birthplace of the legendary cheeseburger, Denver is a rapidly growing destination with 300 days of sunshine in a year. Sandwiched between the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains, the city is home to breathtaking views. Getting around Denver is a hassle-free expe...

Best Time: April to May

33. Hartford

33 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Hartford is a city that often sets itself apart from its other Eastern Coast counterparts. Connecticut's trademark theatricals and appeal are saturated in this city that is often seen as a book lover's haven for its two famous attractions - the Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe houses. A truly hi...

Best Time: May to July

34 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The city of Boise is the capital of the enigmatic state of Idaho and markets itself as a natural haven and welcoming urban retreat. Home to the only human rights memorial in the United States- the Anne Frank Memorial- the city of Boise is known for its sparse highrise buildings, stunning fall foliag...

35. Lincoln

35 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

The city of Lincoln lies in the heart of Nebraska and is defined strongly for its exuberant urban culture and outdoor recreational areas. This city is known for its Kite Festival, hiking trails lined with wildflowers and clam chowder.  Tourists visit Lincoln as a retreat of all sorts,...

36 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Helena is known as the “Queen City of the Rockies” and that moniker remains with the city. The capital still maintains the same charm as it did during the Gold Rush of the 1800s. Helena’s history and culture ring through every street. Visit Reeder’s Alley, a brick complex built for miners in the 180...

Best Time: June to September

37. Santa Cruz

37 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Located just 70 miles south of San Francisco and filled with sandy beaches and redwood mountains, Santa Cruz is a great laidback destination. The city is a counterculture center and known for its liberal beliefs. Santa Cruz is home to all kinds of people from the University of California students to...

Best Time: May to November

38. Silicon Valley

38 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Silicon Valley refers to the area between the city of San Mateo and San Jose and is known for to be home to some of the largest companies in the world. Stanford University, where many startups like Yahoo and Google were formed, is located at Silicon Valley. Visit the Google campus, home to...

39. San Jose

39 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America 9 Tourist attractions

San Jose is the cultural and political heart of the Silicon Valley and the oldest Spanish civilian settlement in California. The bustling city is a mingling of the area’s modern tech heritage along with the state’s colonial history. If you want to hit the beaches while visiting the city, the city’s ...

40. Sacramento

40 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Sacramento is the capital city of California and situated between two huge rivers. Established in 1849, the oldest incorporated city in the state is an oasis of leafy and shady trees. Nature-lovers should check out the Sacramento National Wildlife Sanctuary. Old Sacramento is a huge hit for the...

41. Big Sur

41 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Big Sur is a mountainous area on the Central California Coast. Located in the Santa Lucia Mountains, the Big Sur is known for its drastic views. Named by Spanish settlers, the area was first known as the “Big Country of the South” which was later shortened to just Big Sur or the Big South. The drama...

Best Time: April to November

42. Monterey

42 out of 100 Places to visit in United States of America

Monterey is a coastal city located in the midst of rocky Central California. Originally, it was the capital city of California, and that’s why it’s home to the older buildings in the state. It is home to California’s first theater, public building, public library, public school, printing press, and ...

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States In The United States of America

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The Most Visited States In The United States

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Every U.S. state has many and various tourist attractions . However, specific U.S. states have become more popular traveler destinations. The following ten states are the most visited in the United States: California, Florida, Nevada, Texas, New York, Virginia, South Carolina, Arizona, Georgia, Hawaii. These U.S. states are some of their particular attractions, and their features are accented below.

1. California

California is the country’s most populated state and is a significant agricultural state, providing about 99% of some crops. 

About 50% of the state’s area is government-owned and committed to the conservation of nature. Millions of travelers crowd to California to visit the national monuments, historical places, parks, and beaches. California’s most popular tourist destinations are Disneyland, which is visited by almost 15 million people annually. Other popular attractions in the state are:

• Yosemite National park.
• Death Valley.
• Disneyland.
• The Golden Gate Bridge.
• The Hollywood sign.

Disney World is the most-visited theme park globally, so it isn’t unexpected that Florida would stand so high. There’s so much else to view in Florida, including great beach cities along the Mexican Gulf and Atlantic shores. Florida is scattered with traveler attractions and historical places, recreational facilities, and excellent picturesque spots for travelers to visit.

Nevada is the place to one of the most visiting and entertaining centers globally, Las Vegas. In the city are located gambling and entertainment spots as well as the outstanding clubs in the U.S. Other famous attraction places include Lake Tahoe, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park.

Texas is the second-largest after Alaska state in the U.S. This state is genuinely distinct in all ways, shapes, and forms. Texas’s landscape varies from sands to stunning shores to mountain areas to dense woods.

5. New York

We are pretty astonished to observe New York come in as the 5th most visited state in the U.S., given how well-known its famous traveler attraction sites are. The most visited attractions of the world’s financial capital are the Empire State Building, Times Square, the National Monument of the Statue of Liberty, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

6. Virginia

From its gorgeous rolling hills to its vibrant colonial past, Virginia has much to offer everyone passing through. Virginia stretched from the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mounts. Whether you are a beach person or mount person, Virginia is your best choice.

Famous vacationist attractions include Busch Gardens, Luray Caverns, the Shenandoah National Park, Shenandoah Valley, and different historical monuments, including preserved colonies.

7. South Carolina

South Carolina is a U.S. state of forests, beaches, and beautiful parks and gardens. If you want a pleasant, quiet holiday, think of visiting the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Joe Riley Waterfront ParkSkywheel Myrtle Beach, Broadway at the Beach, the Congaree, and Brookgreen Gardens.

Arizona waterfalls are at #8 in our listing of the most visited U.S states. One of the most famous tourist attraction scenes worldwide – Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona. Millions of tourists make their route to the state to tour this incredible natural formation. Other astonishing places such as Petrified Forest National Park, Antelope Canyon, Saguaro National Park, Monument Valley, and Petrified Forest bring millions of travelers worldwide.

Visitors to Georgia adore many tourist attractions, including Lookout Mountain, Atlanta Botanical and Rock City Gardens, Carter Presidential Library, National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Moreover, Georgia is perceived as a peach state and is essential for being the prime raiser of pecans, peanuts, and Vidalia onions.

Hawaii is a unique U.S. state located in the tropics. The state is called by many a paradise on Earth because of the picturesque landscapes, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and world-class hotels dispersed throughout the islands. Besides the forests and beaches you can visit, a dormant volcano, and an iconic landmark, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Waimea Canyon State, and Na Pali Coast State Park.

The Most Visited U.S. States

The least visited u.s. states.

Now that we know which U.S. states do the most visiting, it is interesting to find out which states did the least traveling. Whether they don’t have any promoted attractions or they favor spending their money on other tasks, or don’t have as much access to huge airports, these are the states who travel the least in America. Coming in at #51 is West Virginia, which is followed on the list by Vermont, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and rounding out the below five is Rhode Island. At #46, we have Kansas, then Arkansas at #44, preceded by Maine, North Dakota, and Connecticut.

Want to learn more about unique landmarks and various tourist attractions in every U.S. state? Then have a look at the following books:

• National Geographic Road Atlas
• Fodor’s Best Road Trips in the USA

How about the most visited states by their size or population? This basically reads as a list of states ordered by how many people live in them.

Not even close Austin

California (Population: 39,613,493) Texas (Population: 29,730,311) Florida (Population: 21,944,577) New York (Population: 19,299,981) Pennsylvania (Population: 12,804,123) Illinois (Population: 12,569,321) Ohio (Population: 11714618

Georgia (Population: 10,830,007) North Carolina (Population: 10,701,022) Michigan (Population: 9,992,427

Isn’t Michigan’s population 10 million?

This is completely incorrect information. This is a list based on population not on how many people travel there every year. Sorry but Maine is in the top ten for destination hot spots for vacationers. To be honest I wish it was closer to 44.

not even close Justin

California (Population: 39,613,493) Texas (Population: 29,730,311) Florida (Population: 21,944,577) New York (Population: 19,299,981) Pennsylvania (Population: 12,804,123) Illinois (Population: 12,569,321) Ohio (Population: 11,714,618) Georgia (Population: 10,830,007) North Carolina (Population: 10,701,022) Michigan (Population: 9,992,427

Lmfao clearly you’ve never been here during flat lander season.

so basically you read the first part about California, just the first paragraph, and called it a day?

Source or methodology please?

thats crazy

man thas crazy. va is small. i live there id know lmaoo

9 mil is small to you? also lots of tourism

25+ Bucket List Tourist Attractions, State by State

Posted: February 5, 2024 | Last updated: February 5, 2024

The Best Tourist Attraction in Every State

Alaska–Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is the perfect way to experience the wild outdoors the authentic Alaskan way. Visitors have been flocking to the park since it initially opened in 1925, and tens of thousands of people still visit it every year thanks to the beautiful landscape and wildlife you experience while there. 

If you’re worried that this national park might be a little too outdoorsy and rough for you, fear not! In reality, most of the visitors to Glacier Bay National Park visit as part of an Alaskan cruise tour. So, you can see all that nature has to offer without giving up your creature comforts of modern living! 

Alabama–Cathedral Caverns State Park

Northern Alabama's Cathedral Caverns State Park is notable for many reasons, but in particular, its world-record entrance opening at the mouth of the cave system is a sight you need to see for yourself. Besides tours, visitors can hike and backpack throughout the area, mine for gemstones, or camp overnight at one of the many campsites. 

You could also channel your inner Jonathan Taylor Thomas, as the cave was a filming location for Disney's Tom and Huck. Plus, if you’re visiting with someone who isn’t thrilled at going underground, there are plenty of more traditional outdoor activities to enjoy here as well.   

Arkansas–Crater of Diamonds

This state park in Arkansas has a unique draw—yes, you really can find diamonds here. Somebody finds one just often enough to remind people that the park is here, and that the diamonds aren't all gone. Located near Murfreesboro, Arkansas, the park also holds lesser pieces of geological curiosity, as well.

Now, you’re going to have to put in some hard work if you want to strike it rich here—those diamonds aren’t going to dig up themselves, after all! However, a significant diamond has been found in the park almost every year since 2006, so it’s not completely out of the realm of possibility that you find a nice one! 

Arizona–Grand Canyon

Standing on the lip of the Grand Canyon will quickly show why this national park has become one of the most widely recognized sites in the world. It might be so famous that it’s gotten a little cliche, but millions of annual visitors can’t all be wrong! 

While you can explore the Grand Canyon the traditional way—on foot or on horseback—there are other options for seeing the sights that are a bit more comfy. Railway and helicopter tours are also available here, as are plenty of hotels with all the amenities of home! 

California–Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is an awesome museum and exhibition space that is extremely popular for its live shows that offer in-depth views into outer space, an outer space-themed laser light show set to music, and inspiring and continually evolving permanent displays and exhibitions. Observation telescopes surround the exterior of the building that are available for free use anytime that the observatory is open. 

While it might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory will definitely be better than most of the corny Hollywood tourist traps in the area. It’s the perfect pick for someone who wants a unique look at southern California. 

Colorado–Aspen

Arguably the most famous skiing region in Colorado, Aspen and its sister town, Snowmass Village, are home to four different mountains. While Aspen is usually associated with the rich and famous, the town offers shopping and dining opportunities for travelers of every budget. It has a lot more to offer than you might realize!

That being said, the luxury hotels are still impressive, and they might be worth staying at if you can afford the outrageous prices. The Little Nell is popular with celebrities, and the hotel runs a pop-up champagne bar on the slopes. Hotel Jerome is another famous destination that dates back to 1889.

Connecticut–Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum

One of the most interactive amusement parks in the country, Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum is a great way to bring out your adventurous side. With ropes courses and zip-lines, it is hard to be bored in this outdoor wonderland. If you’re in the Bridgeport area, it’s definitely worth a visit. 

While you’re there, it might actually be worth checking out what else the Discovery Museum and Planetarium has to offer. It’s especially great if you’re bringing the kids along, as they offer a lot of educational activities. But don’t worry—the kids will be having too much fun to realize they’re learning! 

Delaware–Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Spanning one mile of Delaware coast, the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk follows what is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Enjoy an evening stroll along the beach, or stop in one of the quaint shops on the shore. Be sure to go in time to watch the sunset!

If shopping is more your style, don’t worry because Rehoboth Beach has you covered in that department too! The boardwalk is home to many specialty stores and boutiques, but that’s not even the best part. What makes shopping here really special is that everything is sold tax free! 

Florida–Kennedy Space Center

Florida is such a tourist magnet with so many things to do, that it’s almost like the entire state is just one big destination! From Disney World to the hottest Miami nightclubs, you won’t be bored in The Sunshine State! However, our vote for the coolest Florida attraction is the Kennedy Space Center. 

If you time your vacation right, you might actually get to see a shuttle launch, but even if that’s not the case, the Kennedy Center has plenty of interesting history and attractions to explore. In addition to daily talks from real astronauts, the center has everything from simulated rocket launches to space-themed playgrounds for the kiddos. 

Georgia–Georgia Aquarium

First opened in 2005, the Georgia Aquarium has earned the title of hosting the highest number of marine creatures of any aquarium in the U.S. It’s an amazing place to visit with the family when you’re looking for a stop that pairs education and fun. There are six different galleries within the aquarium, which house everything from dolphins and whale sharks to sea lions and otters.

Plus, the location of the aquarium is the perfect spot for even more sightseeing on your Georgia vacation. Located in the heart of Atlanta, there are lots of other nearby must-sees in the city, like Centennial Olympic Park, the College Football Hall of Fame, and the Coca-Cola museum.

Hawaii–USS Arizona Memorial

The USS Arizona was commissioned in 1916 and served faithfully in diplomatic and training missions until its sinking on December 7,  1941, in the attack on Pearl Harbor that pulled the United States into World War II. There are museum exhibits about the war to take in before a boat trip out to the memorial itself, which straddles the sunken remains of the ship.

While this is not necessarily the most fun outing you could have in Hawaii, it does give you the opportunity to explore one of the most important moments in American history. But remember—daily spaces are limited for the memorial, so you may want to make your reservations several weeks in advance. 

Iowa–Villisca Axe Murder House

In 1912, the entire Moore family and two houseguests were murdered in this Villisca home. The killings were so brutal that they bumped the sinking of the Titanic from the front page of many newspapers. You can now visit the house, which is considered to be one of the most haunted places in the United States.

This is definitely not a destination for the kiddos, but if you’ve got a major true crime fan in your life, this spooky spot is one you don’t want to miss. Tours of the house run for most the year, but you can also arrange to spend the night in the house…if you’re brave enough! 

Idaho–Boise River Park

Boise River Park is a city park in Boise where the river has been fitted with two state-of-the-art waveshapers that make waves between 20 and 25 feet tall, allowing people to surf and kayak, or whatever you want really. Jetties on both sides of the river guide you in, and an expansion is currently underway. There's even a surf company or two in town to help you get started.

White water rafting in the middle of a city might seem like an odd choice, and if you’re an experienced rafter and thrill seeker, this probably will seem a bit tame to you. However, for folks who have never done it before but are ready to take the plunge, the Boise River Park might be the perfect spot to try it for the first time! 

Illinois–Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a masterpiece of renovation for Chicago's Grant Park and surrounding areas. This 24.5-acre park is filled with attractions for public entertainment and has ample space for picnics, al fresco dining, and interactive play areas. It is lauded as an unprecedented center for fine art, music, architecture, and landscape design.

Millennium Park is designed to accommodate the extreme weather conditions of Chicago with features and attractions that shift from one mode of operation to another with the seasons of heat and snow, although most visitors prefer the park's sunny season. Millennium Park is certainly a destination to include in your plans when visiting the city of Chicago.

Indiana–Indianapolis Museum of Art

New York City isn’t the only place to visit with impressive art museums. If you find yourself in Indianapolis, be sure to visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art. See over 54,000 works of art from all over the world that include ceramics, textiles, designs, and stunning masterpieces. It’s a hidden gem in the heartland!

While that’s sure to give you much to see, the Lilly House and Gardens is a part of this museum and a National Historic Landmark. Nestled upon lush, well-manicured lands, this impressive estate still retains its original look from the 1930s. It’s the chance to enjoy Indianapolis in the past while being in the present!

Kansas–Museum of World Treasure

Greece and Egypt are only two of the several civilizations on display at the Museum of World Treasure. The three-story structure housing the museum has a number of military displays in addition to natural history and country histories. The second story is home to military relics and collections, as well as nobility and clothing from many civilizations, while the first floor is filled with numerous dinosaurs of various spices.

Bone fossils and religious artwork are among the several items on display. As you explore the whole facility throughout your visit to this museum, you will leave with a better understanding of world history. You get a look into the past as a result of your encounter with the treasures the world has to offer.

Kentucky–Corvette Museum

Since its use in professional racing, the Chevrolet Corvette has become one of the most popular sports cars in the world. At the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky visitors can learn about the complex history of the car. The museum is only a quarter of a mile away from the plant where Corvettes are manufactured.

You might also get an unexpected science lesson when you visit! Since 2016, the museum has offered an exhibit looking at a major sinkhole collapse that occurred on the grounds in 2014. Visitors learn a little bit about what caused the sinkhole to form, and they also get a virtual look at the cars that were lost in the damage. 

Louisiana–New Orleans Streetcar & Garden District

One of the essential things to do in New Orleans is to ride its historic streetcar, which opened in 1834 and is the oldest in service in the world. It’s a convenient, glamorous, and inexpensive way to get to know the city, as the streetcar passes through the French Quarter and many other parts of New Orleans. 

Pass through St. Charles and Carrollton avenues, which are symbolic of New Orleans’s romance and charm. This particular line is the oldest continuously operating street tram system in the world—opening as steam-powered and horse-drawn in 1835 and converting to electricity in 1893. You can also pass through the Central Business District, City Park, and the New Orleans Museum of Art.

Massachusetts–Plymouth Rock

Plymouth is the epicenter of United States history. This is where the Mayflower, the ship that carried the Pilgrims to the New World, landed. They left from Plymouth, England, so they must've been homesick or out of ideas for names by the time they landed. And if you find yourself in Massachusetts, you can experience this history for yourself. 

Plymouth holds a full-scale replica of the original Mayflower and seeing the ship's small size gives a tangible sense of the hardship those 102 people faced during the 10-week voyage. However, the park is only open from April to November, so plan accordingly if this is a must-visit for you. 

Maryland–Historic Annapolis

At one point, Annapolis was the capital of the United States. The brick sidewalks saw the footsteps of Washington and Jefferson, and four signers of the Declaration of Independence had their homes right here among the rest of the gorgeous 17th- and 18th-century architecture. There's also a gorgeous waterfront, including a dead-end canal called "ego alley" where you can watch boats sail by just to show off.

However, historic Annapolis is much more than just American history. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, especially if you’re in the mood for seafood. Plus, there are a ton of boutiques and other stores along Main Street to find the perfect souvenir for your trip. 

Maine–Commercial Street in Portland

When many people think about Maine, they think about the abundance of seafood around the state. On Commercial Street in Portland, there are many markets that sell the finest catches the sea has to offer. The street is also home to many tourist shops and artisan bakeries. It’s a must-visit for some great food!

However, Commercial Street is more than just its world-famous seafood. There are also plenty of clubs if you’re interested in nightlife as well as walking trails to take in the sights and learn a little bit more about the city. You won’t find a place like this anywhere else in Maine…or the United States!

Michigan–Mackinac Island

The Upper Peninsula is definitely part of Michigan, but it's got a strong culture all its own. From the prevalent logging industry to a strong Finnish heritage, U.P. has such a strong sense of identity that a statehood initiative floats around every couple of decades or so. 

There's plenty to do here, from skiing to hiking to Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel, and the peninsula was named as one of ShermanTravel's top 10 destinations in the world. Mackinac Island may be a small community, but you’ll be surprised at just how much this tiny island has to offer. 

Minnesota–Mall of America

There’s nothing more American than a shopping mall, and there’s not a better one in the country than the Mall of America. It may sound a little corny and cliche, but if you find yourself in Bloomington, this is one stop you don’t want to miss! There’s a lot more to do there than you might expect. 

Almost a city unto itself, the Mall employs over 11,000 people, hosts 40 million visitors every year, and boasts 8 acres of skylights. The gigantic monument to commerce also boasts a 1.2 million-gallon aquarium and its own theme park. You could lay 258 Statues of Liberty inside the mall—though it would make it a little harder to get from Macy's to Sears.

Missouri–Branson

If you’re looking for an old-fashioned fun time, you’re definitely going to want to make a stop in Branson, Missouri. Located near the Arkansas-Missouri border, Branson may be home to only 12,000 people, but it absolutely packed with theaters, shopping, and so much more that makes it a tourist paradise. 

You’ll definitely want to catch a show while you’re there, but let’s just hope you like country music and oldies because that’s mainly what’s on offer. It’s also worth taking a small trip out of the city limits to explore Silver Dollar City, a pioneer-themed amusement park that brings in thousands of visitors a year. 

Mississippi–Mississippi Museum Of Natural Science

The Mississippi Museum of Natural Sciences is located within LeFleur’s Bluff State Park and aims to teach visitors about the area’s natural history. Featuring educational exhibits, interactive habitats, and specimen collections, the museum also has a 100,000-gallon aquarium that is home to over 200 native species of aquatic life.

In addition, the museum holds a beautiful greenhouse. It is home to wetland fauna and flora. There is even a fossil collection and a discovery room. There are giant tree houses throughout the museum grounds, which are also a big hit with kids. You don’t want to miss this if you’re in Jackson! 

Montana–Lewis and Clark Caverns

Although they were unaware of it, Lewis and Clark camped near these caverns on their expedition across the United States. Ranchers discovered the caves near the end of the 19th century and began giving public tours shortly thereafter. Today, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is a great site for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Despite all the visitors, the caverns are still home to hundreds of western big-eared bats that use the caves to birth and raise their young. If you happen to be a little batty yourself, you’ll definitely want to come during August when the caves annually celebrate Bat Week. 

North Carolina–NASCAR Hall of Fame

The NASCAR Hall of Fame has interesting exhibits that will educate and delight both stock car racing enthusiasts and visitors. Within the facility, you will find participatory exhibitions such as a race simulation where you can sit in a car and race other drivers. From all-time top drivers to broadcasters, the museum is dedicated to honoring the major contributors to the NASCAR racing competition.

So far, 58 people have been recognized in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, including Joe Gibbs, Buddy Baker, and Leonard Wood. Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for children ages 4 to 12, $8 for military personnel, and $2 for seniors.

North Dakota–International Peace Garden

Found on the border of the United States and Canada, the International Peace Garden is meant to symbolize goodwill between the two nations. Every year, more than 150,000 flowers are planted within the park, including in the shape of American and Canadian flags. Many notable monuments stand in the garden, including the Peace Towers, one on U.S. soil and the other on Canadian.

While on the grounds of the garden, visitors can do something most other Americans and Canadians can’t—move freely between the border of the United States and Canada. However, all visitors do have to go through customs after leaving the garden, no matter which country they are returning to. 

Nebraska–Carhenge

You have to see this place to truly believe it. In the 1980s, Jim Reinders built a replica of the famed Stonehenge, but instead of stone he used spray-painted classic automobiles. As a symbol of national pride, all of the cars included in the Carhenge exhibit were manufactured by American companies.

As cool as Carhenge itself may be, you should be warned that it’s basically the only tourist attraction in the area. While you should be able to find housing accommodations in the nearby town of Alliance, NE, don’t expect much in terms of other entertainment. 

New Hampshire–Mt. Washington Auto Road

When you get passed by a car with a bumper sticker that reads “This car climbed Mt. Washington,” it's referring to this road. The Mount Washington Auto Road stretches to a height of 6,145 feet, making the ascent difficult for many vehicles to accomplish. For cars that do finish the journey, breathtakingly expansive views await as a reward.

If you’re not confident enough in your driving skills to brave the drive yourself—don’t worry, you’re still in luck! There are guided van tours available to be scheduled. However, bike enthusiasts are out of luck, as they aren’t allowed on the road except during certain special events, like the Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb. 

New Jersey–Atlantic City Boardwalk

Opened in 1870, Atlantic City had the first boardwalk in the United States. Over the years, it has been home to several famous piers. Visitors can enjoy the hustle of the crowd and the many vendors. Though part of the boardwalk was damaged during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, it is still overflowing with vibrant culture.

Whether you want to hit the beach to catch some rays, grab a bite to eat, or do a little shopping, you can find it all (and more) down at the Boardwalk. And, while you’re in Atlantic City, you might want to pop into one of the local casinos to test your luck at the tables! 

New Mexico–Santa Fe Plaza

The Santa Fe Plaza is the true heart of Santa Fe. Popular with tourists and locals alike, the area is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Santa Fe, where one can find an abundance of locally-owned shops and small outdoor markets, the Palace of the Governor’s Native American vendor market, the striking Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (open for viewing regularly), and even the New Mexico State Capitol building just a few blocks away. 

Don’t miss out on grabbing a margarita at The Shed or Coyote Cantina, a spirit animal at Keshi the Zuni Connection, a unique fair-trade outfit at Poetic Threads, and an abundance of other gorgeous garments and stunning souvenirs throughout the many blocks of walkable, beautiful, and iconic Santa Fe streets.

Nevada–Las Vegas

Is anyone really surprised that Las Vegas is the place to be in Nevada? While Las Vegas may be the butt of many people’s jokes, visitors keep flocking to the bright lights of Sin City because the temptation of winning big at the tables is just too powerful to resist! 

However, there’s much more to do in Las Vegas than just lose your shirt gambling the night away. You could also take in a show or two (or three) because Vegas is home to some of the highest-class entertainment in the world. And, if you get sick of all the hustle and bustle, you can be surrounded by gorgeous desert views with just one short road trip outside the city limits. 

New York–Empire State Building

The Empire State building is a New York City icon. From the times of its construction during the Great Depression, it has been a symbol of the greatest of American engineering and ingenuity. Located on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets, the building rises approximately one-quarter mile above fashionable Fifth Avenue and the business district on 6th Avenue. 

The best times to visit run from spring to early winter, avoiding the heat and cold as the observation deck is open-air. During the day, it is probably best to arrive early, pick up tickets, and take a late morning tour. The afternoons are the heavier times for long tour waits, ticket queues, and crowds.

Ohio–Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

America’s second-oldest zoo boasts over 500 animals and 3,000 plant varieties. Samantha, the world’s oldest gorilla in captivity, was born in 1970 and is housed in the Gorilla World’s naturalized rainforest habitat. Who knew you could experience something so wild in the middle of Ohio? 

When touring the Red Panda Habitat, you’ll find various Chinese plant types that support the red panda’s native forest habitat. Swan Lake, African Penguin Point, Jungle Trails, Wings of the World, and many other exhibits can be visited in the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. You may think if you’ve seen one zoo you’ve seen them all, but that’s not the case in Cincinnati! 

Oklahoma–Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner’s gentle waters make it ideal for kayaking and paddle boarding. Although you cannot swim in the lake because it is a local water source, you are able to fish. The entire surrounding area, which has about 10 miles of paved trails, is a popular running, walking, and cycling area. 

You can also dine in style at Red Rock Canyon Grill, which is located in East Wharf, off Lake Hefner Parkway, with a view of the sunset from the city’s only lighthouse. The picnic spots and playgrounds are free, however fishing from the shore requires a city fishing permit.

Oregon–Crater Lake National Park

As an anonymous traveler once said, “When they were choosing the Seven Wonders of the World, they must not have made it to Oregon.” Caused by an ancient glacier, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the Western hemisphere. Seen by many as a sacred place, the crystalline waters and surrounding forest make for gorgeous views.

This is definitely one spot in the United States that you don’t want to miss if you’re big into fishing. The lake was first stocked with non-native fish in 1888, which continued for decades. That means, these days, you can fish here without a license or limit on the number of fish you can catch. 

Pennsylvania–Gettysburg Battlefield

From July 1-3, 1863, Gettysburg would see the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. In fact, many people consider it a turning point for the Union forces. Following the battle, Abraham Lincoln famously made an address about the severity of the conflict. Today, you can visit the historic battlefield and learn about the brave men who died there.

In addition to guided tours of the battlefield, the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center also host several annual special events in the park. In addition to Civil War history, you can also learn about President Dwight Eisenhower, as his ancestral home and farm are also on the grounds. 

Rhode Island–Pippin Orchard

Apple picking is a popular Rhode Island pastime every autumn, and everyone knows Pippin Orchard is the prime place to be for the best apples. The orchard contains sixteen varieties of apples, including Macoun, Honeycrisp, and Rhode Island Greening. Also, Pippin Orchard has a massive celebration for Columbus Day every October.

There’s not a more beautiful place to be in the fall than New England, so you might want to expand your trip to the orchard into a tour of Rhode Island itself. Considering you can drive across this tiny state in less than an hour, it’s worth exploring it all! 

South Carolina–Myrtle Beach

Each year, millions of visitors flock to the gorgeous coastal city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Its fantastic climate, large variety of activities, and wonderful extensive beaches call out to those who are looking for an awesome weekend or vacation getaway. Those looking to be pampered will also enjoy staying in one of the many luxury hotels and spas available in the city.

Myrtle Beach is also the place to be if you love golf. The area has some of the largest concentrations of golf courses in the nation. Courses range from family affairs to exclusive private clubs. Some of the top golf courses include MB National King's North, TPC of Myrtle Beach, Caledonia, Dunes Golf and Beach Club, and Blackmoor.

South Dakota–Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park inarguably has one of the best and toughest-sounding names of all time. The rugged mountains of this national park will leave you speechless—you won’t find views like this anywhere else in the country. However, it has more than beauty—it’s also one of the largest fossil deposits in the world. 

Ancient horses, rhinos, and saber-toothed cats once roamed the park, but today you can find big-horned sheep, bison, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets scampering around instead—although a few of the ancient animals have stuck around as fossils in the park’s museum! Enjoy hiking, educational shows, and so much more at Badlands National Park. 

Tennessee–Graceland

Despite the fact that Elvis Presley has been dead for decades, he's still one of the most recognizable and beloved rock 'n roll superstars of all time. And even though the King may no longer be with us, it's still possible to get an authentic glimpse into the life of Elvis to this day. And that's all thanks to Graceland. 

Since its opening to the public in 1982, Graceland has served as a museum dedicated to the life of Elvis where fans can see firsthand how the King of Rock 'n Roll lived. During that time, literal millions of visitors have filed through the halls of the mansion and taken in all of its history. 

Texas–Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show runs from late February to mid-May, and there's a lot more to it than mere steer ropin'. From the World's Champion Bar-B-Que Contest to the parade to nightly concerts that have drawn everyone from Selena to Selena Gomez, the Rodeo draws millions of people to Houston each year and raises millions of dollars for the children of Texas. 

The Rodeo does occasionally host other events throughout the year, like November's wine competition, so they really offer a little something for everyone. It's worth checking before you come to town to see whether the Houston Rodeo has anything happening. This is one rootin’ tootin’ time you don’t want to miss out on! 

Utah–Park City

Park City Mountain is a resort in Utah where singles, couples, and families can escape the mundane to enjoy an outdoor adventure. Utah might not be the first place you think of when you think about skiing, but at the resort, you can have as much fun in the winter as you could in the summer! 

For nearly 50 years, Park City Mountain Resort has been renowned for its excellent wintry conditions that makes it ideal for snowboarding and skiing. However, there’s more than one way to get moving in Park City. For the real thrill-seekers in your party, you might want to give the resort’s alpine roller coaster a try! 

Virginia–Colonial Williamsburg

The United States’ colonial period may have ended centuries ago, but this part of history is still alive and well in Virginia’s Colonial Williamsburg. This historic district in the city is considered a “living-history museum” where everything you see and everyone you meet are helping bring the exhibit to life. 

Colonial Willamsburg has a ton to offer visitors, but you know what the best part of this tourist destination is? It’s totally free! Sure, you can stock up on plenty of historical-themed souvenirs while you’re there, but walking down the street and taking in the sights won’t cost you a single penny. 

Vermont–Ben and Jerry's Factory

Ben and Jerry's is almost as well-known for its activism as for its unique flavors. Ben came up with chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream because he can't actually taste, so he values texture in his ice cream. And you can see all the behind-the-scenes ice cream secrets for yourself with a factory tour! 

The factory tour includes a guided walk-through with a little bit of free sampling at the end, a history of the company's almost comically tragic early years, and a view of the flavor graveyard where the retired flavors of the past are laid to rest. It’s the sweetest tourist destination in the USA! 

Washington–The Fremont Troll

Inspired by the Norwegian folk tale Three Billy Goats Gruff, the Fremont Troll is a beloved sculpture under the George Washington Memorial Bridge in Seattle. Artists Steve Badanes, Will Martin, Donna Walter, and Ross Whitehead built the Fremont Troll in the hopes that visitors and locals would interact with the sculpture, as well as add interest to an otherwise lackluster and often unused space.

Citizens of Fremont have come to love the bizarre sculpture over the years—so much so that they even named a nearby street “Troll Avenue.” This may be one of the weirdest tourist destinations in the United States, but it’s one you’re going to want to see with your own eyes!

Wisconsin–Lambeau Field

Sports fans all over the world are intense, but you would have a hard time finding people who are more serious about a team than Green Bay Packers fans. No matter when the game starts, tailgaters will have booths set up starting early in the morning. If you really want to see people go crazy, head to Lambeau when the Chicago Bears are in town.

Aside from football, the stadium has been used for everything from musical concerts to snowmobile racing! Even if you’re not a Packers fan yourself, this is definitely a must-visit site for any and all football fans. Just don’t let anyone know you’re not rooting for the home team! 

West Virginia–Mothman Museum

Point Pleasant saw its share of strange phenomena in the 1960s, as was chronicled in the 2002 thriller The Mothman Prophecies. The Mothman Museum was established to document these occurrences and serve as a monument to the movie, including many props and souvenirs from the film. Just be careful you don’t run into the Mothman himself! 

If you’re a really big fan of cryptids, you’re definitely going to want to plan your trip to coincide with the annual Mothman Festival the museum holds in the fall. From live music to hayride tours, the festival has everything you need to have a little spooky fun in West Virginia!

Wyoming–Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Wyoming might seem like a no-frills kind of state, but that couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Despite its out-of-the-way location, it’s one of the most popular, and, more importantly, most expensive ski resorts in the country. 

There’s obviously plenty of winter fun to be had in Jackson Hole, but it can also be a great summer destination, as long as you don’t have your heart on skiing. These warm-weather activities include gondola tours of the area and summertime classics like mini-golf and rock climbing. 

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Florida is home to theme parks, sharks, alligators, beaches, but it made ‘most boring’ list

Florida is boring?!

The Sunshine State is home to Disney World and Universal Studios and has hundreds of miles of beaches. We have the oldest city in the U.S. in our backyard and some of the richest people in the world .

To keep life interesting, we even have sharks and alligators .

Apparently, that's not enough.

According to a study by Solitaired , Florida is the fifth most boring state in the United States , based on an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions around the world. The analysis was made to determine what locations were the least interesting.

Here's what the study discovered.

Takeaways from study on Top 100 most boring tourist sites around the world

According to Solitaired , key takeaways include:

• Branson Scenic Railway in Branson, Missouri, is the most boring attraction in the world.
• Museums comprise 33% of the Top 100 most boring attractions.
• Four LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are in the Top 25 most boring attractions worldwide.
• Georgia is the most boring state, with many attractions and extensive reviews indicating boredom.
• The U.S., Canada and Australia hold the top three spots for countries with the most boring tourist attractions. And yes, U.S. was No. 1.

Top 'most boring' tourist attractions in Florida

Here are the Florida locations ranked among the most boring tourist attractions around the world. The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• No. 7: Museum of Science & Technology, Tampa. Score: 3.10
• No. 19: Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 21: Jungle Island, Miami. Score: 2.40
• No. 22: Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Universal Orlando theme park. Score: 2.40
• No. 23: Miami Seaquarium, Miami. Score: 2.30
• No. 35: Ripley's Believe It or Not! Orlando. Score: 2.20
• No. 46: Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine. Score: 2.10
• No. 56: WonderWorks, Orlando. Score: 2.0
• No. 100: Glazer Children's Museum, Tampa. Score: 1.80

Top 10 states with highest boredom score

"We ranked states based on how often attractions were called boring in reviews compared to the total number of attractions with any reviews labeling them boring in that state," Solitaired said. "By this metric, Georgia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee are the nation's top three boring states."

The "boredom score" is on a scale from zero to five.

• Georgia: 21 boring attractions. Boredom score: 5.0
• Massachusetts: 4 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Tennessee: 49 boring attractions. Boredom score: 4.1
• Missouri: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.9
• Florida : 104 boring attractions. Boredom score: 3.5
• Texas: 72 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.8
• California: 99 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.7
• Nevada: 33 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.5
• Minnesota: 7 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.4
• Illinois: 23 boring attractions. Boredom score: 2.3

How did Florida rank as 5th most boring state in US?

"With its 104 boring attractions, Florida might seem like the boredom capital at first glance ," Solitaired said.

"Yet, it only ranks as the fifth most boring state because each attraction garners very few yawns from visitors. Despite many attractions being labeled boring by reviewers, this sentiment is such a minority that Florida only pans out as the fifth most boring state."

Top 10 most boring tourist attractions in the US

• Branson Scenic Railway: Branson Missouri. Boredom score: 5.0
• lluminarium Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 4.5
• Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride: Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Boredom score: 3.70
• Salem Witch Museum: Salem, Massachusetts. Boredom score: 3.40
• LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta: Atlanta, Georgia. Boredom score: 3.40
• Adler Planetarium: Chicago, Illinois. Boredom score: 3.30
• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa. Boredom score: 3.10
• LEGOLAND Discovery Center Dallas/Fort Worth: Dallas, Texas. Boredom score: 2.90
• Museum of Ice Cream: New York City. Boredom score: 2.50
• The Shepherd of the Hills: Branson, Missouri. Boredom score: 2.50

➤ Want more? Here's the most boring tourist attraction in every state

Around the world: 8 of Top 10 boring tourist attractions in US

Eight of the Top 10 most boring tourist attractions are in the U.S., according to the Solitaired analysis:

• Museum of Science & Industry: Tampa . Boredom score: 3.10
• Shrek's Adventure London. London, England. Boredom score: 2.90
• LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Toronto. Vaughan, Canada. Boredom score: 2.80

➤ More boring content: The most boring tourist attraction in every country

Methodology used by Solitaired in ranking attractions

Solitaired, an online gaming platform that creates classic games — like Solitaire — with a focus on improving mental acuity, memory and processing speed.  

In March 2024, Solitaired "analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide , spanning 384 cities across 71 countries.

"We focused our analysis on keyword mentions indicative of a bored tourist. Those keywords were "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre," and "tedious.

"We ranked the attractions by the frequency with which tourists mentioned boredom-related keywords, comparing the mentions to the total reviews for each spot."

Attractions with fewer than 2,000 total reviews were removed.

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Credit Cards

Top 100 biggest tourist traps worldwide

Glen Luke Flanagan

Robin Saks Frankel

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Updated 7:25 p.m. UTC Nov. 21, 2023

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Allika, Getty Images

When you’re planning the perfect vacation, you don’t want to spend your time or money on a tourist trap that disappoints. To help you avoid a case of destination letdown, we turned to the treasure trove of data found in online reviews that can help savvy travelers make the most of their vacation planning.

In July 2023, we analyzed 23.2 million Google reviews of the 500 most popular tourist attractions in the world, spanning 65 countries in six continents. For each attraction, we asked a simple question: How frequently do the reviews mention the terms “tourist trap,” “overrated” or “expensive”?

We compared attractions to one another by measuring the relative frequency of these mentions, dividing the number of mentions in each case by the total number of reviews for that attraction. We break down our findings, so you are armed with the information you need before planning to visit a popular tourist destination, and offer tips on how to travel in a way that’s good for your wanderlust and your wallet.

Key findings

• The Four Corners Monument (in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah) is the No. 1 tourist trap in the world, according to our analysis.
• The Blue Lagoon in Iceland and Penang Hill in Malaysia are the top tourist traps in Europe and Asia.
• The Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia had 397,905 reviews on Google, as of our analysis, and not a single one mentioned “tourist trap.”
• The California Academy of Sciences, Elvis Presley’s Graceland and the South Carolina Aquarium are the most overpriced attractions in the United States.
• Voodoo Doughnut in Portland, Oregon, is the most overrated tourist attraction in the world.

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Top 100 tourist traps worldwide

With the distinction of being the only place where four states meet — Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah — the Four Corners Monument sounds pretty cool. It’s also 30 miles from the closest gas station, so it might appeal to travelers seeking to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. However, this attraction also topped our list in terms of the percentage of disgruntled reviews. Of 10,839 reviews analyzed, 139 flagged this spot as a tourist trap.

Meanwhile, Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin got the most mentions of “tourist trap” in the reviews we analyzed of any tourist attraction in the world, with 400 out 76,269 reviews flagging it as one. This spot is a popular stop for travelers because of its historical significance as a border crossing during the Cold War, when the city was split in half between West Germany and East Germany.

Top 25 tourist traps in the U.S.

Eight of the top 10 tourist traps in the world, as determined by our analysis, are in the U.S. Three of the top tourist traps involve paranormal phenomena — witches, ghosts and UFOs.

Those spots are the Salem Witch Museum in Massachusetts, Calico Ghost Town in California and the International UFO Museum and Research Center in New Mexico. Each location had a number of reviews mentioning "tourist trap," so it seems some visitors left feeling disenchanted.

Most overpriced attractions worldwide

The U.S. is home to the third most overpriced attraction in the world, according to our analysis of reviews mentioning the word “expensive,” with spots in Iceland and Canada taking first and second places. Coming in at most overpriced is the Blue Lagoon in Grindavik, with prices starting at $67 per person but nearly doubling during peak times. This is followed by the Capilano Suspension Bridge in Vancouver where tickets are $69.95 per person when you purchase them at the ticket window. The California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco comes in third for an entry fee that makes consumers grumble at $49.75 for an adult ticket during a peak visiting time.

It seems that Americans feel aquariums are overpriced in general, with aquariums in South Carolina, Maryland, California and Georgia making the top 50 in our list.

California has seven of the top 25 most overpriced attractions, with Tennessee coming in next with three spots in the top 25 — including Elvis Presley’s Graceland, at No. 5 in the world.

Most overrated attractions worldwide

Unless you just really love doughnuts, one spot you might want to skip on your next vacation is Voodoo Doughnut in Portland, Oregon. At least, you might want to skip it if you care about reviews, because our analysis found it to be the most overrated attraction in the world.

Rounding out the top five most overrated attractions are the following:

• The Little Mermaid in Denmark.
• The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Japan.
• The Manneken Pis sculpture fountain in Belgium.
• The Hollywood Walk of Fame in California.

Tips on how to avoid tourist traps

Get recommendations from your travel card concierge.

Your travel card may provide access to a concierge which can help with travel research, planning and booking. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, rates & fees ) is a luxury travel card (as evidenced by its $695 annual fee) with a slew of perks and protections, including a highly regarded concierge service. Contact your concierge early on in your vacation planning and tell them you want to go off the beaten path and enjoy unique experiences rather than known tourist traps.

Consider where your rewards can take you

It’s no secret that credit card rewards can help you see the world. But are you getting the most out of your stash? Let’s consider an example using American Airlines miles.

As of the time of this writing, a flight from New York to Honolulu and back at the end of October 2023 might run you anywhere from about 53,000 AAdvantage miles to well over 100,000 AAdvantage miles. By contrast, if you were to fly from New York to San Juan, Puerto Rico and back in the same time period, you might find deals in the ballpark of 24,000 or 31,000 miles. While many variables impact the exact cost, being flexible with your vacation options can save you substantially.

Plus, when opting for destinations with less sticker shock, you can still find activities and sites that are every bit as amazing as you'd find in a pricier locale. Continuing our example from above, if Hawaii's stunning rainforests initially attracted you to Honolulu, consider that Puerto Rico is home to El Yunque National Forest — the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.

If you’ve piled up the points on a card that earns transferable rewards, rather than one that’s specific to a certain airline or hotel chain , you can do even more shopping around. Compare the cost of booking award travel on the loyalty transfer partners your card offers before you commit, because the number of points or miles required can vary dramatically between different airlines.

Plus, savvy travelers know that travel credit cards sometimes offer deals, such as double value when transferring points from your card to a specific airline partner. For instance, the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® offered a deal on Aug. 1, 2023 where cardholders with Bilt Silver Status could get double the number of Virgin Red points for their Bilt points when transferring their rewards to the airline. Keeping a sharp eye out for deals like this could help your earnings take you farther than you’d normally go.

Finally, great deals on award travel aren’t just for people willing to pay an annual fee for luxury cards, either. See our list of best travel cards with no annual fee for budget-friendly options.

If you’re going abroad, it’s best to use a credit card without foreign currency surcharges. Check out our picks for the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees .

Follow a trusted travel newsletter

What better way to avoid tourist traps than by getting curated recommendations from a trusted source? By getting a travel newsletter in your email inbox, you can make note throughout the year of enticing destinations and enriching activities, and plan your next vacation accordingly.

For example, people with an Amex Platinum or the invite-only American Express Centurion Black Card * The information for the American Express Centurion Black Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. can receive the Departures newsletter, which the issuer describes as a “lifestyle resource”. Examples of the content you can expect, based on a recent issue of Departures, include "7 Hotels Worth Planning Your Whole Trip Around" with recommendations for stays in Paris, New York City and more, and "How I Escaped City Life and Moved My Family to a Mexican Surf Town".

All information about American Express Centurion Black Card has been collected independently by Blueprint.

In short, smart travel recommendations are just a few clicks away — and can help you craft the dream vacation while avoiding tourist traps that might not leave you feeling fully satisfied.

Seek out lodging that isn’t part of a mega-chain hotel collection

If you have a travel rewards credit card , check if it grants you special access to a hotel collection. For example, Capital One announced the Lifestyle Collection in mid-2024, designed to be exclusively available via Capital One Travel for people with specific Capital One cards .

The Lifestyle Collection is a list of curated boutique hotels allowing guests to stay in popular destinations but avoid the crush of an overcrowded megahotel lobby.  While your choice of lodging won’t necessarily prevent you stopping by a tourist trap, finding a great stay can make it easier for you to have a wide selection of possible vacation activities.

If picking the right credit card has you overwhelmed, we’ve got you . Here are our picks for the best credit cards for every type of person.

Methodology

In July 2023, we analyzed 23.2 million Google reviews of 500 popular tourist attractions in the world, spanning 65 countries in six continents.

We focused our analysis on mentions of certain keywords that indicate a common negative sentiment among visitors. Those keywords are: “tourist trap”, “expensive”, and “overrated”.

It’s true that a few uses of these keywords do not fit in a negative context (e.g. “It’s kind of a tourist trap but we loved it!”). Based on our analysis, these positive instances of usage were not frequent enough to be statistically significant, and in any case, they are consistent enough across attractions to cancel each other out.

We began with a list of 1,600 tourist attractions for consideration, before narrowing to our final 500. We removed from this list, with only a few exceptions, all national parks, state parks, lakes, and mountains. We also removed sports stadiums. The list was further reduced based on the total number of reviews submitted for each attraction.

All reviews analyzed were written in English.

For rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page .

*The information for the American Express Centurion Black Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Glen Luke Flanagan is a deputy editor on the USA TODAY Blueprint credit cards team. Prior to joining Blueprint, he served as a deputy editor on the credit cards team at Forbes Advisor, and covered credit cards, credit scoring and related topics as a senior writer at LendingTree. He’s passionate about helping people understand personal finance so they can make the best decisions possible for their wallet. Glen holds a master's degree in technical and professional communication from East Carolina University and a bachelor's degree in journalism from Radford University.

Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at USA TODAY Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.

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