USA attractions

Stretching from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, the grassy, tree-lined National Mall is central to the culture and history of Washington DC. The open space between Constitution and Independence Avenues is home to the Washington Monument and fringed by Smithsonian museums and attractions such as the National Archives Museum. Affectionately known as “America’s Front Yard,” it has hosted such historic events as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech and the AIDS Memorial Quilt.

The Colorado River winds through red-rock canyons and desert landscapes, offering some of the Southwest’s best opportunities for outdoor adventures. Kayak through calm waters, soak in riverside hot springs, or take a rafting trip through dramatic scenery and past geological wonders. Whether visiting from Las Vegas or venturing deeper into canyon country, the Colorado River delivers a refreshing change of pace, surrounded by spectacular natural scenes.

Hayden Valley—named after Dr. Ferdinand Hayden, whose geological survey helped Yellowstone become a national park in 1872—is one of the best places in Yellowstone to spot wildlife. It’s also one of the most popular, though the traffic isn’t always entirely human-caused: Herds of bison sometimes crowd the road, letting you know whose territory you’re on.

Navy Pier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago—and with good reason. Jutting straight into the waters of Lake Michigan, the pier is one of the city's largest entertainment complexes, with almost 50 acres (20 hectares) of exhibits, rides, parks, and family attractions. For those seeking a calmer experience, Navy Pier is also an excellent spot to appreciate the lakefront and skyline views.

Encompassing more than 1,000 square miles (2,700 square kilometers), Alaska's Kenai Fjords National Park is named after its numerous glacial-carved fjords—beautiful ice valleys unlike anywhere in the Lower 48. The fjords run down the mountains into the iconic Harding Icefield, where some 30 active tidewater glaciers flow. The fabulous landscape is also a wildlife watcher's dream, thanks to its abundant marine animals, birds, and other native wildlife.

Set at the heart of the National Mall, the World War II Memorial honors the 16 million American soldiers who served in World War II. The site’s pillars represent each state and territory; it’s arches are dedicated to victories; and more than 4,000 stars symbolize the sacrifices made.

Both an architectural marvel and one of New York’s most recognizable landmarks, the Flatiron Building has been turning heads since its debut in 1902. Named for its uncommonly triangular shape, the building was designed by architect Daniel Burnham and is a US National Historic Landmark. With 22 floors, it’s never been NYC’s tallest building, but it’s certainly one of its most iconic.

The Washington Monument is the tallest—and arguably the most recognizable—landmark in Washington DC, soaring to a height of 555 feet (169 meters). The white, marble obelisk, erected in honor of President George Washington, stands tall overlooking the National Mall. You can ascend to its summit or admire its mirror image in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

Inhabited since the 1630s, Boston's North End is understandably home to a variety of historic attractions, including the Paul Revere House (the starting place of his famous midnight ride in 1775) and the Old North Church, both of which are on the city’s Freedom Trail. But the neighborhood is equally known for its cultural offerings; dubbed Boston's Little Italy, the North End is a popular destination to grab Italian-American fare.

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial, commissioned by Franklin D. Roosevelt, is a tribute to the third president of the United States, founder of the University of Virginia, and key drafter of the Declaration of Independence. Its Pantheon-esque facade and bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson overlook the Tidal Basin and Washington Monument.

A prominent landmark on Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral stands tall and proud, beckoning French Quarter visitors to pause the revelry and admire the oldest continuously used cathedral in the United States. The seat of the city’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese, the church was built in 1789 and rebuilt in 1850. Today, its all-white, Spanish colonial facade—topped with three black spires—is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New Orleans.

One of New York City’s most storied buildings, the Dakota stands quietly across from Central Park with its Gothic gables and ornate stonework. Visitors come to admire the architecture and reflect on its place in pop culture history—especially as the former home of John Lennon. Offering a glimpse into old New York elegance, it’s a must-see stop on many Upper West Side walking tours.

Set along Oahu’s North Shore at ʻEhukai Beach Park, the Banzai Pipeline is one of the most legendary surf breaks in the world. Massive waves build and crash over a shallow reef, drawing top surfers from around the globe. Visitors can watch the action from the beach, where powerful swells and vibrant sunsets make this a must-see stop for surf fans.

Mokolii Island is a small islet located just off the coast of Oahu’s Kualoa Regional Park. It is only reachable by swimming, kayaking, and even wading during low tide if you’re feeling adventurous. Visitors to the cone-shaped island can hike to the top to enjoy sweeping, panoramic views or relax on its pristine beaches. Its cultural Hawaiian name is officially Mokoliʻi.

Only in Los Angeles are stars so common that they can be found on the sidewalk. Featuring more than 2,800 brass stars along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic tribute to celebrities past and present. No trip to Hollywood is complete without strolling its length and finding stars belonging to your favorite, ahem, stars.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial brings together life-like statues of a patrol squad with a walled triangle inscribed with scenes depicting the Korean War. The steel statues and granite walls lead to the center of a reflecting pool. Dedicated in 1995, the memorial honors the 5.8 million Americans who served in the Korean War (1950–1953).

On the southeastern coast of Oahu near Hanauma Bay, the Halona Blowhole is a rock formation created by volcanic activity. Its water-shooting effect comes from waves forced through the underwater lava tubes, and it can shoot water up to 30 feet (9 meters) in the air. From the lookout, you can also see nearby islands on a clear day.

One of the highest waterfalls in North America and the world, this superstar attraction in Yosemite National Park is made up of three falls with a cumulative drop of 2,425 feet (739 meters). It’s especially stunning in late spring when the snow melts, and water flow is at its peak. Most visitors take in this natural marvel from easily accessible viewpoints, but adventurous hikers can climb the historic trail to the top.

More than a busy waterway, New York Harbor is known for some of NYC’s most popular attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governors Island. While it’s a scenic locale to admire from the shore, the harbor is arguably even better up close. Get on the water to explore Manhattan’s natural setting and see the city’s beauty from a new perspective.

Though the San Francisco Bay Bridge doesn't share the fame of the Golden Gate, the beauty of its recently reconstructed east span is beyond debate. Locals know it as the best way to cross between Oakland and San Francisco, while travelers enjoy its storied history, Yerba Buena Island connection, and stunning light displays.

Home to hidden sea caves and the volcanic black-sand Paʻiloa Beach, Waiʻanapanapa State Park is one of the jewels of Maui’s Road to Hana. Located just outside of Hana at the end of the extraordinarily scenic Hana Highway, the park’s lava tubes, coastal hiking trails, and ancient burial sites are a welcome reward for those who make the long and winding drive.

The World War II–era USS Intrepid aircraft carrier retired to Manhattan’s West Side, where it was transformed into a museum with lots of history and technology to explore. The complex hosts noteworthy craft, including NASA’s Enterprise space shuttle, the USS Growler missile submarine, and a Concorde jet. While you’re there, check out original artifacts, films, and photographs, plus simulators that recreate the flying experience.

Radiating art deco glory, Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan is where you’ll find Radio City Music Hall, NBC Studios, the Top of the Rock observation deck, and, in winter, New York City’s famous ice rink and Christmas tree. Opened by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the Great Depression, it’s a classic NYC stop for its history as a cultural center and architectural icon.

At the Cave of the Winds observation decks, thrill-seeking visitors can get within 20 feet (6 meters) of the thundering Niagara Falls. This is one of the closest ways to experience the natural wonder, and feels like the inside of a tropical storm, with torrents of water and winds of up to 68 mph (109 kph). Safe to say, you should prepare to get wet.

Known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," the Ryman Auditorium is one of Nashville's most iconic venues, helping the city transform into a legendary music destination. Since opening in 1892, it has hosted legends such as Louis Armstrong, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Van Morrison. Today, visitors can tour the historic theater, visit the museum, or experience the venue's world-class acoustics during a live performance.

Hanauma Bay's clear waters, surrounded by volcanic rock, are home to a vast array of tropical fish and coral reefs. Once used by the Hawaiian royal family for fishing and entertaining, the bay is now part of Hanauma Bay State Park, one of Oahu’s top attractions. In addition to snorkeling, visitors to the bay can sunbathe and relax on its wide sandy beach.

Situated on the northern end of Hawaii’s Big Island, Waimea (aka Kamuela) is the center of Hawaiian cowboy (paniolo) country. This historic area is filled with rolling green hills, endless open pastures, and spectacular valleys. With its fabulous scenery, bucolic vibes, and great local food, Waimea is one of the Big Island’s top tourist towns—it’s also the island’s north side hub.

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers visitors a front-row seat to the region’s striking natural beauty. Home to everything from lush rainforest and the Halemaumau Crater to lava tubes and rolling black lava fields—where hot steam still rises from fissures and rifts that dot the rugged landscape—Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must on the Big Island.

Seattle’s landmark Space Needle, one of the most distinctive icons in the Pacific Northwest, rises 605 feet (184 meters) above the city. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, and once the tallest structure in the western US, the tower features indoor and outdoor observation decks offering 360-degree views over the Seattle skyline and surrounding mountains.

New Orleans’ Garden District is the epitome of Southern charm. The neighborhood is full of historic mansions, complete with wrought-iron fences, verandas, and manicured gardens. Stretches of green parks separate the streets, and St. Charles Avenue—known for its famous St. Charles Streetcar—runs through the heart of it all. Other highlights range from the leafy Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 to Magazine Street, a favorite among brunchers and browsers.