Best Places to Visit in the USA

Introduction

Comprised of 50 states, the USA is a vast country that offers an incredibly diverse array of natural landscapes, cityscapes, people, and cultures. From the tropical islands of Hawaii to the desert landscape of the Grand Canyon, as well as multicultural cities such as Chicago and New York City, you'll never be stuck for destinations to discover. In this blog, we will take a look at the 50 best places to visit in the USA.

50. Big Sir

Located between the Carmel Highlands and San Simeon, Big Sir is a large rocky stretch of the California coastline. It lines around 70 miles of California's famous Highway 1 and is a magnet for travelers on road trips. The area is known for its towering redwood trees and breathtaking beaches, offering top hiking opportunities in several state parks encompassed by Big Sur.

49. St. Augustine

Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the US. Today, its National Historic Landmark district is a major tourist destination. The walkable downtown is made up of narrow colonial streets lined with interesting locally owned shops and outstanding restaurants. St. Augustine also offers prime access to the Atlantic Ocean and year-round sunshine.

48. Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is the crown jewel of national parks in Washington. It covers a vast patch of the spectacular Olympic Peninsula and offers a mind-boggling diversity of nature. From glacial mountains to dense and soggy rainforests, the park is a thorough wilderness. With over 250 glaciers and unforgettable hikes such as those through Hurricane Pass and the Enchanted Valley, Olympic National Park is a must-visit destination.

47. Asheville

The town of Asheville, set in the beautiful Blue Ridge Foothills, enjoys a reputation for being a vibrant artsy community. Its town center features a number of boutiques that showcase local creations, as well as bars and great places to eat. Strolling musicians and street performers add to Asheville's overall creative vibe. The city is also located close to the world-famous Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned house in the United States.

46. Monument Valley

Iconic in look, Monument Valley's incredible geological features have starred in TV commercials, films, and magazine ads. Surrounded by a desolate and featureless desert, the massive sandstone buttes rear impressively toward the heavens. The valley, known as "the valley between the rocks" by the Navajo, is a must-see place when visiting Arizona.

45. Austin

Known for its slogan "Keep Austin Weird," this city definitely feels a little different from the rest of Texas. Austin is the capital of the Lone Star State and offers unique attractions such as touring the pink Capitol building and witnessing over 1 million bats fly out at sunset from the Congress Avenue Bridge. With a youthful population and a lively live music scene, Austin is a must-visit destination.

44. Mount Rushmore

One of the most unique tourist attractions in the United States, Mount Rushmore is visited by millions of tourists each year. Carved into the side of the mighty Mount are the huge heads of four of the nation's most revered and respected presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The National Memorial not only offers awe-inspiring sculptures but also provides insight into how they were carved and created.

43. Aspen

Nestled in the remote part of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is one of the world's most famous ski resorts. Once primarily a haunt of the rich and famous, it is now a popular tourist destination. The small town lies on the banks of the Roaring Fork River, surrounded by majestic Colorado mountains. Aspen offers a perfect setting for outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking, but most people come for the sublime ski slopes.

42. Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an arm-shaped peninsula located on the easternmost part of Massachusetts. It has developed into one of the most popular destinations in the state. Lighthouses, cranberry bogs, sandy beaches, and walking and biking trails dot the Cape Cod National Seashore. The popular resort town of Provincetown, at the very tip of the peninsula, is the site of the first landing of the Pilgrims and the summer home of the Kennedy family.

41. Niagara Falls

The world-famous Niagara Falls straddles Ontario in Canada and the American state of New York. Made up of three falls (Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls), Niagara Falls is an incredibly impressive sight. 6 million cubic feet of water cascade over the ridge every second, drawing an estimated 30 million tourists every year.

40. Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, also known as the "Steel City," is a huge metropolis created where three rivers converge. Once a major center of industry, it has transformed into a city with a distinct topography of green hills rising straight up from the rivers below. The skyline of downtown Pittsburgh is not to be missed, with the US Steel Tower standing as the tallest building in the city. The city also offers a green park called Point State Park, where visitors can tour the 19th-century Fort Pitt Block House.

39. Atlanta

The capital and largest city of Georgia, Atlanta is a sprawling city with three urban skylines rising up from picturesque scenery of rolling hills, pine forests, and magnificent old oak trees. Atlanta is known for its attractions such as the CNN Center, World of Coca-Cola, and the Georgia Aquarium, which features the world's largest indoor aquarium.

38. Santa Fe

Founded by Spanish explorers in 1610, Santa Fe is one of America's oldest cities and arguably one of the most beautiful. The city is known for its Pueblo architecture and rich art scene. Santa Fe's cultural attractions include the Palace of the Governor's Museum, housed in the nation's oldest public building, and the New Mexico Museum of Art, which features a must-see collection of 20,000 works of art.

37. Mackinac Island

There is something special about the clip-clopping of horseshoes on the historic pavement of Mackinac Island. Once a fur trading post, Mackinac Island has developed into a must-see destination. With its car-free streets and beautiful Lake Huron, the island offers a chance to explore the "Cape Cod of the Midwest" on a horse-drawn carriage. The island is also home to historic and cozy B&Bs and the glamorous Grand Hotel.

36. Gatlinburg

Located right at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains and the wonderful national park named after them, the resort town of Gatlinburg is set in a beautiful spot with gorgeous nature all around it. Many people visit for the wealth of outdoor activities it has to offer, such as hiking along the Appalachian Trail and skiing at Ober Gatlinburg in winter.

35. Grand Teton National Park

Home to marvelous mountains, sweeping valleys, and sparkling alpine lakes, Grand Teton National Park delights nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in the northwest of Wyoming, the park covers a vast swath of the Rocky Mountains and is named after Grand Teton, the highest peak in the range. With its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable hikes, Grand Teton National Park is a great place to explore.

34. Lake Tahoe

Straddling the states of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. The crystal-clear waters of the lake lie in the Sierra Nevada, with majestic mountains and forests all around it. With skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and water sports on offer, Lake Tahoe provides a myriad of incredible recreational opportunities. The lakeside casinos, flashy hotels, and ski resorts add to the allure of the destination.

33. San Diego

Centered around a natural harbor, the coastal California city of San Diego is known for its Mexican culture, delicious seafood, and year-round mild climate. Visitors are attracted to the city for its laid-back mindset and opportunities to soak up some beautiful sun, sea, and sand. San Diego's top attractions include the bustling Balboa Park, home to the San Diego Zoo, and the picturesque waterfront area of Embarcadero.

32. Cannon Beach

Named after a cannon that washed ashore after a shipwreck, Cannon Beach is one of the most popular seaside resorts along Oregon's 300-mile-long coastline. Located around 80 miles to the west of Portland, this once rustic artist community has grown into a popular resort filled with restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries. The most striking feature about the beach is the 235 ft high Haystack Rock, the largest of the monolithic rocks that dot the sandy shoreline.

31. Carlsbad Caverns

Located 25 miles from a former ranch town, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a network of caverns and an incredible sight to behold. The main chamber of the cave, called the Big Room, is impressive to say the least. To access it, visitors can choose to take an ear-popping elevator or a snaking pathway into the subterranean abyss. Carlsbad Caverns is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate eerie and incredible natural formations.

30. Boston

Boston is loaded with history, from being one of the oldest cities in the United States to hosting the world's most famous tea party. Visitors can relive Boston's participation in the American Revolution by walking the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long trail that passes by 16 historically significant sites. But Boston is so much more than history. It is home to successful professional athletic teams, cultural activities, and fine dining opportunities.

29. Outer Banks

The Outer Banks is a string of barrier islands that hug the North Carolina coastline. The islands are a popular destination for vacationers seeking a break from the summer heat. The northern end of the Outer Banks is famous for the wild horses that still wander its dunes, while the middle section is home to the towns of Nags Head and Kitty Hawk. The beautiful and relatively wild Cape Hatteras National Seashore is located further south.

28. Arches National Park

Located within Utah's Canyon Country, Arches National Park is home to more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches formed over the millennia by wind and water. These extraordinary rock formations are found everywhere around the park's desolate confines. Arches National Park is a treat to explore, whether on foot or by bike, with iconic and photogenic centerpieces such as Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch.

27. Charleston

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the South, Charleston is a historic port city packed with antebellum architecture. The city's downtown is on a peninsula formed by two rivers and protected from the open ocean by surrounding islands. Charleston is known for its charming French Quarter, beautiful old mansions, and horse-drawn carriage tours. Visitors can also enjoy the city's many art galleries and delicious seafood.

26. Mackinac Island

25. Nashville

America's Music City, Nashville has become one of the most popular towns in the country. Known for its unrivaled live music scene, Nashville attracts visitors from all corners of the US and the world. The city is also home to the Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and the famous honky-tonk bars on Broadway. With its vibrant music scene, Nashville offers an unforgettable experience for music lovers.

24. Bar Harbor

A very popular place to visit, the lively seaside town of Bar Harbor can be found on the northeast coast of Maine's magnificent Mount Desert Island. As it lies just a stone's throw from Acadia National Park, many people use the town as a base from which to explore its wonderful wilderness. Despite its small size, the charming town is packed with great shops and restaurants, with interesting historic attractions dotted about.

23. San Antonio

The jewel of Texas, San Antonio is a city steeped in rich history and modern-day appeal. Known for attractions such as the Alamo and the Riverwalk, San Antonio offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city's Riverwalk is a vibrant pedestrian scene of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, while the Alamo is an important Civil War landmark. A carriage tour through the city is a charming way to see some of the most important sites.

22. Death Valley

Located in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley encompasses much of the Death Valley National Park. Although regarded as the driest and lowest place in North America, Death Valley offers a variety of outdoor activities, historic sites, and nature viewing. From snow-capped mountains to colorful sand dunes, the unique desert landscapes of Death Valley are like no other place in California.

21. Orlando

Home to world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios, Orlando is a favorite destination for family vacations. Located in central Florida, Orlando is a place where dreams and magic become reality. Apart from theme parks, visitors can enjoy cultural activities, fine dining, and explore the diverse neighborhoods that make up this vibrant city.

20. Savannah

The quintessential southern city, Savannah draws millions of tourists every year to its charming scenes of Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, and moss-draped oaks. The city's historic downtown is a treasure trove of beautiful old mansions and historic sites. Visitors can also enjoy the city's picturesque Forsyth Park and explore the charming French Quarter. A traditional carriage tour is a perfect way to soak up the charm of this southern gem.

19. Philadelphia

Referred to by locals as Philly, Philadelphia is a major US city in southeastern Pennsylvania. Philadelphia is known for its rich history and iconic landmarks such as the Liberty Bell and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Visitors can relive the country's founding by walking the Freedom Trail and explore the city's vibrant art scene. Philadelphia is also famous for its delicious cheesesteaks.

18. Sedona

Located in the central part of Arizona, the town of Sedona is known for its vibrant art scene and spiritual retreats. However, Sedona's most popular attraction is its breathtaking array of red sandstone formations that create a striking backdrop to the town. Sedona's brilliant landscape offers much to see and do, from incredible natural landscapes to spiritual and wellness activities.

17. Chicago

Nicknamed the Windy City, Chicago is the third-largest city in the USA and is known for its towering skyscrapers, sports teams, and unique style of hot dogs and pizzas. Chicago offers a wide range of attractions and activities, from cultural experiences like visiting the Art Institute of Chicago to enjoying the bustling nightlife and live music scene. The city's iconic skyline and vibrant neighborhoods make it a must-visit destination.

16. Denali National Park

Denali National Park is the monumental tract of land that makes up Alaska's most famous national park. The park is home to Denali, formerly known as Mount McKinley, the tallest peak in North America. Denali National Park offers truly awe-inspiring scenery, with snowy boreal forests, desolate tundra, jagged mountains, and lakes. It is a great place for adventure and wildlife watching, with opportunities to see grizzly bears, moose, and other magnificent animals.

15. New Orleans

Regarded as one of the most unique cities in the USA, New Orleans is widely known for its distinctive French Creole culture, cuisine, and architecture, as well as jazz music and the annual Mardi Gras celebration. The city is a melting pot of ethnic cultures, with a wide array of attractions and activities. From exploring the historic French Quarter to enjoying delicious food and experiencing the vibrant nightlife, New Orleans has something for everyone.

14. Rocky Mountain National Park

One of the most spectacular slices of nature in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is home to marvelous mountains, sweeping valleys, and sparkling alpine lakes. With its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable hikes, Rocky Mountain National Park offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

13. Seattle

Home to global giants like Boeing, Starbucks, and Amazon, Seattle is the largest city in the USA's Pacific Northwest region. Known as the Emerald City due to its lush scenery, Seattle offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty. From the futuristic Space Needle to the bustling Pike Place Market, there are plenty of iconic landmarks and attractions to explore. The city is also famous for its coffee culture and music scene.

12. Miami

One of the most vibrant cities in the USA, Miami is best known for its Latin culture, sizzling nightlife, and beautiful beaches. Miami offers a mix of cultural diversity, stunning architecture, and a thriving art scene. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of neighborhoods like Little Havana, explore the trendy art district of Wynwood, or relax on the sandy beaches of South Beach.

11. Washington DC

The capital of the United States and seat of the federal government, Washington DC is a cosmopolitan city known for its iconic landmarks and rich history. From the White House to the Capitol building, there are numerous attractions that highlight the city's role in American history. The National Mall, with its beautifully landscaped parkland, is home to many iconic monuments and museums.

Top 40 Best Places to Visit in the USA 2024