26. The Statue of Liberty – New York
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, and it is no wonder that it is so attractive to tourists. There are several reasons for this. Firstly, the statue has a rich historical significance. It was gifted to the United States by the people of France in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of American independence. Since then, it has become a symbol of the friendship between the two nations and a beacon of hope and freedom to people all over the world.
Popular Things to Do in The Statue of Liberty – New York:
- Visit the Statue of Liberty National Monument
- Take a ferry to Liberty Island
- Visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
- Climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty
- Ranger-guided tours of the Statue and Ellis Island
27. San Antonio – Texas
San Antonio, Texas, is a popular tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, the city has a rich history that is reflected in its architecture, museums, and cultural attractions. San Antonio is home to the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a critical role in the state’s fight for independence. Visitors can explore the Alamo’s grounds and learn about the site’s history, which makes it an essential stop for anyone interested in American history.
Popular Things to Do in San Antonio – Texas:
- Visit The Alamo
- River Walk
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
- Tower of the Americas
- SeaWorld San Antonio
28. Atlanta – Georgia
Atlanta, Georgia, is a popular tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, the city has a rich history that is reflected in its landmarks and museums. Atlanta played a significant role in the American Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can explore this history by visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park or the Center for Civil and Human Rights. The city is also home to the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, and the World of Coca-Cola Museum, showcasing the history of the iconic beverage brand.
Popular Things to Do in Atlanta – Georgia:
- Centennial Olympic Park
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
- Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Atlanta History Center
- Visit the Georgia Aquarium
29. Mackinac Island – Michigan
Mackinac Island, Michigan, is a unique and charming tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, the island’s rich history is reflected in its architecture, museums, and cultural attractions. Mackinac Island played a significant role in the fur trade industry and the War of 1812. Visitors can explore this history by visiting Fort Mackinac or the Mackinac Island State Park Historic Downtown.
Popular Things to Do in Mackinac Island – Michigan:
- Bike around the island
- Visit Fort Mackinac
- Take a horse-drawn carriage tour
- Sample fudge at one of the island’s many fudge shops
- Visit the Mackinac Island Butterfly House
30. Alcatraz Island – California
Alcatraz Island, located in San Francisco Bay, California, is a popular tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, the island has a rich history that is reflected in its landmarks and museums. Alcatraz was once a federal prison. Visitors can explore this history by taking a tour of the prison, including its notorious solitary confinement cells and the mess hall where inmates ate their meals. The island is also home to several museums, including the Alcatraz Cellhouse Museum and the Alcatraz Island Museum, which offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s fascinating past.
Popular Things to Do in Alcatraz Island – California:
- Take a tour of the Alcatraz prison
- Explore the island’s gardens and wildlife
- Take in the views of San Francisco Bay
- Learn about the island’s history
- Visit the Alcatraz lighthouse
31. Orlando – Florida
Orlando, Florida, is a highly attractive tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, Orlando is known as the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” with several major theme parks located in the city, including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. These parks offer visitors a range of thrilling rides, shows, and attractions and are a major draw for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Popular Things to Do in Orlando – Florida:
- Walt Disney World
- Universal Orlando Resort
- SeaWorld Orlando
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Discovery Cove
32. Hoover Dam – Nevada
Hoover Dam, located on the Colorado River between Arizona and Nevada, is a popular tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, the dam is an impressive engineering feat and an iconic landmark of the American Southwest. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its history, construction, and function as a vital source of hydroelectric power for the surrounding region.
Popular Things to Do in Hoover Dam – Nevada:
- Take a Dam Tour
- Visit the Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
- Walk the Historic Railroad Trail
- Visit the Hoover Dam Museum
- Take a Helicopter Tour
33. Nashville – Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee, is a highly attractive tourist and is a widely recognized destination for several reasons. Firstly, Nashville is known as the “Music City” and as the heart of country music. Visitors can explore the city’s many music venues, including the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame, and enjoy live performances from top country music artists.
Nashville’s food and drink scene is another major draw for tourists. The city is known for its hot chicken, BBQ, and Southern cuisine, as well as its craft breweries, distilleries, and wineries.
Popular Things to Do in Nashville – Tennessee:
- Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
- Explore the historic Ryman Auditorium
- Tour the Johnny Cash Museum
- Experience live music on Lower Broadway
- Visit the Parthenon at Centennial Park
34. Philadelphia – Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a highly attractive tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, Philadelphia is a city steeped in American history and played a significant role in founding the United States. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were both signed and the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence and freedom.
Popular Things to Do in Philadelphia – Pennsylvania:
- Visit Independence Hall and see the Liberty Bell
- Explore the historic district of Old City
- Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Take a tour of the Reading Terminal Market
- Visit the Eastern State Penitentiary
35. Boise – Idaho
Boise is the capital city of Idaho and is located in the western part of the state. It is a vibrant and growing city that offers a range of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. One of the city’s main draws is its natural beauty, with the Boise River and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains providing a stunning backdrop to the city.
Popular Things to Do in Boise – Idaho:
- Visit the Idaho State Capitol Building
- Stroll through the Boise River Greenbelt
- Visit the Boise Art Museum
- Walk or bike through the Ridge to Rivers Trail System
- Explore the Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site
36. Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a public park located in the heart of downtown Chicago, Illinois. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, drawing millions of visitors every year. The park covers 24.5 acres and is home to a number of iconic landmarks and cultural institutions.
Popular Things to Do in Millennium Park:
- Visit the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “The Bean”
- Attend a concert or event at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion
- Walk through the Lurie Garden
- Take a selfie with the Crown Fountain
- Explore the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink (seasonal)
37. Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a world-renowned theme park and movie studio located in Los Angeles, California. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern California, attracting millions of visitors every year. The park is famous for its thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows. Visitors can experience the wizarding world of Harry Potter, ride roller coasters inspired by Jurassic Park and The Fast and the Furious, and take a tour of the famous Universal Studios backlot to see where some of Hollywood’s biggest movies and TV shows were filmed.
Popular Things to Do in Universal Studios Hollywood:
- Experience the thrilling rides
- Take the Studio Tour
- Meet your favourite characters.
- Attend a live show
- Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter
38. National WWI Museum and Memorial – Kansas City
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is located in Kansas City, Missouri, and is dedicated to preserving the history of World War I and honouring the sacrifices made by those who fought in the conflict. It is one of the most important museums and memorials in the United States, attracting visitors worldwide.
Popular Things to Do in National WWI Museum and Memorial – Kansas City:
- Visit the Liberty Memorial Tower.
- Attend a special event or exhibit at the museum.
- Walk through the Memory Hall exhibit.
- Visit the Paul Sunderland Bridge.
- Take a guided tour of the museum
39. Woodstock – Vermont
Woodstock, Vermont, is a small town in Windsor County, in the heart of Vermont’s picturesque Green Mountains. Known for its charming New England architecture, stunning natural scenery, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Woodstock is a popular destination for tourists worldwide.
Popular Things to Do in Woodstock – Vermont:
- Visit the Billings Farm and Museum.
- Explore the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
- Visit the Woodstock Inn and Resort.
- Stroll through the historic village.
- Take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside.
40. Vail – Colorado
Vail, Colorado, is a world-renowned ski resort town located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Founded in 1962, Vail has become a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts from around the world, offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding terrains in North America.
Popular Things to Do in Vail – Colorado:
- Go skiing or snowboarding on Vail Mountain.
- Take a scenic gondola ride.
- Enjoy a day of snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
- Visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens.
- Explore the Vail Village.
41. San Diego – California
San Diego, California, is a vibrant coastal city located in the southwestern corner of the United States. Known for its year-round sunny weather, pristine beaches, and thriving cultural scene, San Diego is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
One of the top attractions in San Diego is its beautiful coastline, which stretches for miles and is home to some of the most popular beaches in the country, such as Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove, and Mission Beach.
Popular Things to Do in San Diego – California:
- Visit the San Diego Zoo.
- Go to Balboa Park and visit its museums and gardens.
- Take a stroll along the San Diego Bay walk.
- Go to the USS Midway Museum.
- Visit the San Diego Natural History Museum.
42. Maui – Hawaii
Maui is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Hawaiian archipelago and for good reason. Its natural beauty, stunning beaches, diverse culture, and many activities make it a highly attractive place for tourists worldwide.
One of Maui’s biggest draws is its unparalleled natural beauty. With its lush rainforests, towering waterfalls, and crystal-clear beaches, Maui offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.
Popular Things to Do in Maui – Hawaii:
- Go snorkelling or scuba diving.
- Visit the Haleakalā National Park.
- Take a road trip on the Road to Hana.
- Go whale watching.
- Relax on Maui’s beautiful beaches.
43. Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington, is a charming Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains, and it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Pacific Northwest. There are several reasons why Leavenworth is so attractive to tourists.
One of the biggest draws of Leavenworth is its unique architecture and Bavarian-themed design. The town was transformed in the 1960s to resemble a traditional Bavarian village, complete with Alpine-style buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful landscaping.
Popular Things to Do in Leavenworth, Washington:
- Explore the Bavarian-themed village.
- Visit the Nutcracker Museum.
- Go on a wine-tasting tour in the surrounding countryside.
- Attend the annual Oktoberfest celebration.
- Go skiing or snowboarding at the nearby Steven’s Pass.
44. Glacier – Montana
Glacier, Montana, is a small town located on the eastern border of Glacier National Park, one of the most stunning natural parks in the United States. There are several reasons why Glacier is an attractive destination for tourists.
One of the biggest draws of Glacier is its location. The town is situated at the doorstep of Glacier National Park, offering visitors easy access to the park’s breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities.
Popular Things to Do in Glacier – Montana:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Glacier National Park
- Grinnell Glacier Trail
- Many Glacier
- Iceberg Lake Trail
45. Finger Lakes – New York
The Finger Lakes region of New York is a stunning destination that attracts tourists worldwide. There are several reasons why the Finger Lakes are so attractive to visitors.
One of the biggest draws of the Finger Lakes is its natural beauty. The region is home to eleven long, narrow lakes that are surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and charming towns.
Popular Things to Do in Finger Lakes – New York:
- Wine tasting and vineyard tours
- Watkins Glen State Park
- Finger Lakes National Forest
- Corning Museum of Glass
- Seneca Lake
46. Cannon Beach – Oregon
Cannon Beach, Oregon, is a small coastal town located on the northern Oregon coast, and it is a popular destination for tourists. There are several reasons why Cannon Beach is so attractive to visitors. One of the biggest draws of Cannon Beach is its stunning natural beauty. The town is situated on a picturesque stretch of coastline, with miles of pristine sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore the area’s natural beauty by taking a scenic drive along the Oregon Coast Highway or hiking along the Tillamook Head Trail.
Popular Things to Do in Cannon Beach – Oregon:
- Haystack Rock
- Cannon Beach
- Chapman Point
- Hug Point State Park
- Oswald West State Park
47. Boston – Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic city and one of the oldest cities in the United States. There are several reasons why Boston is an attractive destination for tourists. One of the biggest draws of Boston is its rich history and culture. The city played a significant role in the American Revolution and was home to several key events, including the Boston Tea Party and the Battle of Bunker Hill. Visitors can explore the city’s history by visiting the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail that takes visitors through 16 historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, the Old North Church, and the USS Constitution Museum.
Popular Things to Do in Boston – Massachusetts:
- Visit the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum.
- Go wine tasting at one of the many local wineries.
- Take a scenic drive through the Cascade Mountains.
- Go hiking or mountain biking on nearby trails.
- Visit the Enchantment Lakes.
48. Black Hills, South Dakota
The Black Hills are a small, isolated mountain range that covers about 5,000 square miles in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming. They are home to various wildlife and natural wonders, including caves, canyons, and forests.
Mount Rushmore is a major attraction in the Black Hills, featuring the faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the granite face of the mountain. Other popular destinations in the area include Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, which is a work-in-progress monument honouring the legendary Lakota warrior.
Popular Things to Do in Black Hills, South Dakota:
- Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
- Explore the Custer State Park.
- Drive through the scenic Needles Highway.
- Visit the Crazy Horse Memorial.
- Take a scenic drive through the Black Hills National Forest.
49. Bar Harbor –Maine
Bar Harbor is a town located on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque coastal scenery, charming downtown area, and proximity to Acadia National Park.
Acadia National Park is one of the main attractions in Bar Harbor. The park covers a large portion of Mount Desert Island and includes hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors to the park can also enjoy activities like camping, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Popular Things to Do in Bar Harbor – Maine:
- Visit Acadia National Park.
- Take a whale-watching tour.
- Go kayaking or paddle boarding in the bay.
- Take a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road.
- Visit the Abbe Museum and learn about Native American history and culture.
50. Odawa Casino
Odawa Casino is a casino resort located in Petoskey, Michigan, United States. The casino is owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, who are a federally recognized tribe in Michigan. The casino features a large gaming floor with over 1,200 slot machines and table games, as well as a poker room and a high-limit gaming area. In addition to gaming, Odawa Casino also offers a variety of dining options, including a buffet, a sports bar, and a fine dining restaurant.
Popular Things to Do in Odawa Casino:
- Visit the Odawa Hotel Gallery, featuring works from local artists.
- Play bingo or keno.
- Enjoy a drink at the Rendezvous Lounge.
- Shop at the on-site gift shop.
- Take a dip in the resort’s indoor pool or hot tub.
After exploring these 50 most beautiful places to visit in the US, we hope you’re feeling inspired to plan your next adventure. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty or urban charm, the US has so much to offer. If you’re looking for more travel inspiration, be sure to check out the honourable mentions section and our interactive map for even more beautiful places to visit. We hope this article has been helpful in planning your next trip. Remember, the US is a vast and diverse country with something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the beauty that awaits you.