50. Big Sur, California
Big Sur is renowned for its dramatic coastline, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. Highway 1 offers some of the most stunning coastal views in the country. Highlights include Bixby Creek Bridge, McWay Falls, and Pfeiffer Beach with its purple sand. Visitors can also explore the redwood forests in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
49. St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers. The city’s historic district is filled with colonial architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish stone fortress with stunning views of the St. Augustine Inlet. St. Augustine is also known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant arts scene.
48. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park encompasses nearly a million acres and protects a diverse range of ecosystems, from rugged coastline and lush temperate rainforests to alpine peaks and ancient glaciers. Highlights include the Hoh Rain Forest, where moss-draped trees create a fairy-tale landscape, and Hurricane Ridge, which offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. The park is ideal for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
47. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and eclectic culture. The city's downtown area is filled with art galleries, craft breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Nearby, the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest privately-owned home, offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Vanderbilt family, complete with beautifully landscaped gardens and a winery.
46. Monument Valley, Arizona
Monument Valley’s towering sandstone buttes and mesas create one of the most iconic landscapes of the American West. This area is located within the Navajo Nation and offers guided tours led by Navajo guides, providing cultural and historical insights into the region. Popular spots include the famous Mittens buttes, John Ford’s Point, and the Valley Drive, a 17-mile dirt road that offers breathtaking views.
45. Austin, Texas
Austin, the capital of Texas, is known for its lively music scene, with more live music venues per capita than anywhere else in the nation. The city hosts major music festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits. Other attractions include the Texas State Capitol, Lady Bird Lake, and the vibrant South Congress Avenue (SoCo) area with its unique shops and eateries.
44. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the colossal carved faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This iconic monument is located in the Black Hills and offers a visitor center, museum, and hiking trails. Nearby attractions include the Crazy Horse Memorial and Custer State Park.
43. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a premier ski resort town nestled in the Rocky Mountains, known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. During the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and festivals like the Aspen Music Festival. The town itself offers upscale shopping, dining, and cultural attractions such as the Aspen Art Museum.
42. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is a popular summer destination known for its charming seaside towns, beautiful beaches, and historic lighthouses. Visitors can explore the Cape Cod National Seashore, take a ferry to the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, or enjoy fresh seafood in the many local restaurants. The area is also known for its arts and crafts scene and picturesque New England landscapes.
41. Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, consisting of three waterfalls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Visitors can take a boat tour with Maid of the Mist, walk along the Cave of the Winds, or enjoy stunning views from the Skylon Tower. The falls are illuminated at night, creating a spectacular sight.
40. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pittsburgh, known as the "Steel City," has transformed from an industrial hub to a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene, beautiful parks, and a rich history. Visitors can explore the Andy Warhol Museum, the Carnegie Museum of Art, and the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The city’s unique topography, with its many hills and rivers, offers stunning views and outdoor activities.
39. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a bustling city known for its historical significance, cultural attractions, and southern hospitality. Key attractions include the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, the Atlanta History Center, and the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world. The city is also a major hub for the civil rights movement and offers numerous museums and memorials dedicated to this important aspect of American history.
38. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico, is known for its Pueblo-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and rich cultural heritage. The city’s historic Plaza is surrounded by shops, galleries, and restaurants. Key attractions include the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, the Palace of the Governors, and the beautiful Santa Fe Opera. The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring ancient Native American ruins.
37. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is a car-free destination known for its Victorian architecture, historic sites, and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the island by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage, visit Fort Mackinac, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Huron. The island is famous for its fudge, and shops throughout the town offer a variety of flavors. Mackinac Island State Park covers over 80% of the island and offers beautiful trails and natural landscapes.
36. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering access to some of the park’s most popular hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The town itself is filled with attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg SkyLift, and the Space Needle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Gatlinburg is also known for its arts and crafts community, with numerous galleries and shops featuring local artisans.
35. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, pristine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, take a scenic drive along Teton Park Road, and enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to the iconic Grand Teton mountain range, which offers some of the most dramatic and beautiful scenery in the United States.
34. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America, known for its clear blue waters and surrounding mountains. The lake offers year-round recreational activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, boating, and swimming in the summer. Key attractions include Emerald Bay State Park, Sand Harbor, and the Tahoe Rim Trail.
33. San Diego, California
San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, mild climate, and numerous attractions. Balboa Park is home to the San Diego Zoo, museums, and gardens. Other popular destinations include SeaWorld, the historic Gaslamp Quarter, and the USS Midway Museum. San Diego’s coastline offers a variety of beaches, from the lively Mission Beach to the scenic La Jolla Cove.
32. Cannon Beach, Oregon
Cannon Beach is famous for its scenic coastline and the towering Haystack Rock, a sea stack that rises 235 feet from the edge of the shore. The town itself is charming, with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Nearby Ecola State Park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to see wildlife such as elk and seabirds.
31. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
Carlsbad Caverns National Park features a vast network of caves, including the impressive Big Room, which is one of the largest underground chambers in North America. Visitors can take guided tours or explore on their own, marveling at the stunning rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. The park also offers surface trails with beautiful desert landscapes and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
30. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is steeped in American history, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Visitors can walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes in 16 historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. Other attractions include the Boston Common, the Museum of Fine Arts, and Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox.
29. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks are a series of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, known for their beautiful beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Wright Brothers National Memorial, climb the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, and enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and kiteboarding. The islands are also home to wild horses that roam freely in certain areas.
28. Arches National Park, Utah
Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. The park’s unique rock formations and desert scenery make it a popular destination for hiking, photography, and stargazing. Visitors can explore trails like the Devil’s Garden, the Windows Section, and Balanced Rock.
27. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, historic sites, and southern charm. The city’s historic district features cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and colorful houses. Key attractions include the Battery promenade, Fort Sumter National Monument, and Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Charleston is also known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants offering traditional southern cuisine.
26. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, spiritual energy, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the numerous hiking and biking trails, take a jeep tour of the rugged landscape, and visit the many art galleries and shops in the town. Sedona is also known for its vortex sites, which are believed to offer spiritual and healing energy.
25. Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali National Park is home to North America’s highest peak, Denali, which stands at 20,310 feet. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including wildlife viewing, hiking, and mountaineering. Visitors can take a bus tour along the park road, which offers stunning views of the mountain and the chance to see animals like grizzly bears, moose, and caribou.
24. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is known for its historic charm, beautiful squares, and moss-draped oak trees. The city’s historic district features cobblestone streets, antebellum homes, and notable landmarks like Forsyth Park and the Mercer-Williams House. Visitors can take a riverboat cruise on the Savannah River, explore the city’s many museums and galleries, and enjoy southern cuisine in its many restaurants.
23. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon is famous for its unique geological formations known as hoodoos, which are tall, thin spires of rock that rise from the canyon floor. The park offers numerous hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for stargazing. Popular spots include Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and the Navajo Loop Trail, which takes visitors down into the canyon and up through the Wall Street section of hoodoos.
22. Everglades National Park, Florida
Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and numerous bird species. The park offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and hiking, as well as guided tours to learn about the unique ecosystem. Key attractions include the Anhinga Trail, Shark Valley, and the Ten Thousand Islands.
21. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic River Walk. Visitors can explore the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and site of a pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution, and stroll along the River Walk, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Other notable sites include the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the San Fernando Cathedral, and the Market Square.
20. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is steeped in American history, being the birthplace of the nation and home to many significant historical landmarks. Visitors can explore Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. Other attractions include the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Reading Terminal Market, and the historic district of Old City.
19. Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a major tourist destination known for its world-famous theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando are among the most popular attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. The city also offers a variety of other attractions, including the Orlando Science Center, Gatorland, and numerous golf courses and shopping centers.
18. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its vibrant music scene, unique cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. The French Quarter is the heart of the city, with its historic buildings, lively bars, and iconic Bourbon Street. Other attractions include the Garden District, the National WWII Museum, and the city’s numerous festivals, including Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
17. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Key attractions include Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald, and Many Glacier. The park is also a great destination for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see animals like grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.
16. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is home to many important historical and political landmarks. Visitors can explore the National Mall, which is lined with iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The city also offers numerous museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, the National Gallery of Art, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
15. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is known as the "Music City," famous for its country music scene and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, catch a live show at the Grand Ole Opry, and stroll down Broadway, lined with honky-tonks and bars. The city also offers a variety of other attractions, including the historic Ryman Auditorium, the Parthenon replica in Centennial Park, and the Johnny Cash Museum.
14. Miami, Florida
Miami is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural scene. Visitors can explore the Art Deco Historic District in South Beach, enjoy the shops and restaurants in the upscale neighborhood of Brickell, and experience the vibrant Cuban culture in Little Havana. The city also offers numerous outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and exploring the nearby Everglades.
13. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is known for its beautiful beaches, including Waikiki Beach, and its historic and cultural sites. Visitors can explore Pearl Harbor, hike up Diamond Head for stunning views of the city, and visit the Iolani Palace, the former residence of Hawaiian royalty. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, snorkeling, and hiking.
12. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and diverse culinary offerings. Visitors can explore Millennium Park, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (known as "The Bean"), take an architectural boat tour along the Chicago River, and visit world-class museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. The city also offers a lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
11. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is known for its stunning granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and beautiful waterfalls. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and camping. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, deer, and numerous bird species.
10. Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Key attractions include Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald, and Many Glacier. The park is also a great destination for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see animals like grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is famous for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and entertainment shows. The city’s extravagant hotels, restaurants, and attractions make it a major tourist destination. Visitors can explore the Las Vegas Strip, catch a world-class show or concert, and try their luck at one of the many casinos. Other attractions include the Neon Museum, the Fremont Street Experience, and nearby natural wonders like Red Rock Canyon.
8. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. Its immense size and stunning vistas attract millions of visitors each year. Visitors can explore the South Rim and the North Rim, take a hike down into the canyon, or enjoy a scenic helicopter tour. The park also offers opportunities for whitewater rafting on the Colorado River and stargazing in its dark night skies.
7. Maui, Hawaii
Maui is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and the scenic Hana Highway. Visitors can explore Haleakalā National Park, home to a massive dormant volcano and stunning sunrise views, and enjoy activities like snorkeling, hiking, and whale watching. The island also offers a variety of cultural experiences, including luaus, traditional Hawaiian music and dance, and the historic town of Lahaina.
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore Alcatraz Island, stroll through Fisherman’s Wharf, and ride a cable car through the city’s steep streets. Other attractions include Golden Gate Park, the historic Haight-Ashbury district, and the bustling Chinatown. The city’s diverse dining scene offers everything from gourmet restaurants to food trucks and local markets.
5. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone is the first national park in the world and offers geothermal wonders like geysers and hot springs, as well as diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Key attractions include Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Yellowstone River’s Grand Canyon. The park is also home to a variety of animals, including bison, elk, and wolves, making it a prime destination for wildlife viewing.
4. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, is known for its beautiful beaches, including Waikiki Beach, and its historic and cultural sites. Visitors can explore Pearl Harbor, hike up Diamond Head for stunning views of the city, and visit the Iolani Palace, the former residence of Hawaiian royalty. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, snorkeling, and hiking.
3. New York City, New York
New York City is known as "The City That Never Sleeps," offering endless attractions and activities. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Central Park. The city is also home to world-class museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art, as well as Broadway theaters, high-end shopping, and diverse dining options.
2. Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is known for its entertainment industry, beautiful beaches, and diverse neighborhoods. Visitors can explore Hollywood, take a stroll down the Walk of Fame, and visit the Getty Center. Other attractions include the Griffith Observatory, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and the famous Santa Monica Pier. The city’s diverse culinary scene offers everything from gourmet dining to food trucks and ethnic eateries.
1. Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital, is home to many important historical and political landmarks. Visitors can explore the National Mall, which is lined with iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The city also offers numerous museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, the National Gallery of Art, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
These destinations offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, historical significance, and vibrant city life, making them must-visit places for anyone exploring the USA.