The most iconic places in the USA to visit in your lifetime!
Known for bustling city centers and country roads in spades, the United States is a massive conglomeration of just about everything. You can find some of the most relaxing beachside spots in the same state as the party capital and maybe even some rich history a town or two over.
There is so much to explore in the United States that a list of some of the greats seems appropriate. From the four famous heads etched in stone on Mount Rushmore in South Dakota to the Statue of Liberty in New York, here is the list of famous places in the USA.
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The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the whole country. Lady Liberty stands tall over Ellis Island, and all that surrounds (or tours) it. There are several options available for boat tours, photo ops, and so much more to commemorate such a moment. There is little else that could so capture the American spirit in one sight, and the Statue of Liberty is often cited as the place to go. “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free”!
Accommodation: Where to stay in New York
Address: Liberty Island, NY
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in New York City
Champagne, shows, casinos, and so much more! The Strip is where everything comes alive in Las Vegas. There are luxury hotels, slot machines, poker games, the Fountains of Bellagio, gondola rides, and even a mini (but still considerably large) Eiffel tower. If you already have a mental picture of all the hustle and bustle that Las Vegas is, The Strip is probably what you are thinking of.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Las Vegas
Address: Las Vegas Strip, NV
Honestly, this could be a city in itself! Times Square is the lively, eccentric, exciting, fast-paced heart of New York City. It is one of the most famous places in the US where street performers come to play, shops open their doors wide, traffic rages on, the billboards are bright, and people from all over the world come together. Times Square is one of a kind New York experience that simply can’t be missed.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Times Square
Address: Broadway, New York City, NY 10036
If you’re thinking of Disney Land, that’s in Anaheim! Disney World, while yes, still Disney, is a bit different. For one, it’s actually a grouping of various parks, including Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney Springs, and more. This is the ultimate getaway for the whole family because not only is there a place for everyone: but a park! Spend your day on Space Mountain or walking the world at Epcot, and you’ll see the magical difference. It's no surprise this is one of the most famous places in the USA!
Accommodation: Where to stay in Orlando
Address: 1180 Seven Seas Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Also Read: Top 5 Things to Do in Walt Disney World, Florida
Although most, if not all, of Hawaii could and should be listed on a bucket list of the United States; if there is one thing to see it is Hana. The Road to Hana is a 52-mile excursion that takes visitors through the beating heart of nature. Lush doesn’t even begin to describe the scenery. This rainforest has no shortage of incredible, ‘wow’ worthy sights. There are waterfalls, observation decks where you can see the ocean, trails, hiking, and so much more.
Address: Hana Hwy, Hawaii
Also Read: Best Tropical Destinations in the US
The infamous first shots of the civil war took place at Fort Sumter, as well as acted as a primary military base during the ongoings of the war. This is an important historical monument of one of the most divisive moments in American history. The tours here cost upwards of $15, dependent on age, but are well worth the cost. Not only is it such an important monument to the past, but it is also a beautiful South Carolina landmark.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Charleston
Address: 1214 Middle St, Charleston, SC 29482
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Charleston, SC
The White House in D.C. is the official residence of the President of the United States. This came into tradition with President John Adams in 1800. Since then, it has been a long-honored tradition that the White House be the primary residence of the President, and typically, the President’s family.
It is a massive, beautiful, historical building with a gorgeous front lawn and plenty of photo opportunities. There are even free tours available to the public, although there are a few rules and people you will have to contact first. Regardless of the entrance, if you want to see one of the most famous buildings in the United States, the White House should be on that bucket list.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Washington DC
Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500
When you think of American beauty, Yosemite should be topping the list. Coating all magnificent 768,000 acres of national parkland is one ethereal site next to another. Yosemite is one of the famous places in America with no shortage of natural attractions.
Hiking paths here are nothing short of spectacular, with even that descriptor unable to capture the full scope of its beauty. There are slopping mountains, dense, thick forests, and some racing waterfalls around every corner here. Yosemite is an absolutely essential stop on any trip to California and, really, any trip to the United States in general. This is one of those things you’ll have to see to believe, and it is well worth it.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Yosemite Valley
Address: Yosemite National Park, CA 95389
Also Read: Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park
Another New York gem comes from the vivid, lush magnetic draw of its parks. Central Park has been seen through numerous shows, movies, music videos, and so much more, solely for both its prominence and beauty. It is a massive 843 acres of lakes, trails, and places to picnic, sleep, or paddleboat. Sometimes, Central Park even has music concerts, events, festivals, and so much more!
Central Park is just like the city it resides in: a little bit of everything. It is also a nice change of speed from the hustle and bustle of the city itself. Central Park is situated in the heart of one of the busiest cities in the world and still manages to feel like paradise. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most iconic places in the US.
Address: 14 E 60th St, Central Park Conservancy, New York, NY 10022
Lay your towel down in these sands! South Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the nation for numerous reasons. The party season is unrivaled. The nightlife is memorable, and the curfew is nonexistent. That being said, South Beach is not solely for one kind of crowd. Many families enjoy these golden banks in the summer, and couples looking for some alone time can find quiet spots along the shore. There are also hotels, resorts, games, watersports, and so much more. South Beach is one of the famous places in the US and vacation heaven.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Miami
Address: Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Miami
Just across the street from Independence Hall comes a true symbol of American independence. The Liberty Bell is almost as famous as the mystery that surrounds it. Or, namely: the crack in it.
Stretching from base to a little more than halfway is a sizeable crack with origins unknown but highly speculated. Even without this piece, it would still be a significant American attraction. Thousands come to the doors of the Liberty Bell Center, so if you want to get a good look: arrive early! There is no fee, but the time spent in line is costly.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Philadelphia
Address: 6th St & Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Also Read: Top 25 Attractions & Things To Do in Philadelphia
Another one of the famous places in America to remember! The Alamo is most notably referenced regarding Texas independence. The Alamo is famous for its prominence in the Texas Revolution, where a grueling battle ensued to ensure Texas freedom.
The full story, as well as individual tales, can be found in the beautifully preserved hallways of the Alamo. Entrance here is free; however, guided tours typically fall somewhere in the $10-15 range and offer even more insight on the history of the Alamo.
Accommodation: Where to stay in San Antonio
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in San Antonio
New York is a state worthy of its own list of some of the essentials, but a frequent number on any list of the greats is the Empire State Building. This is an incredible 1,454 feet of the New York skyline. From here, you can see all the landmarks New York is known for and maybe even catch a few you didn’t know about.
Day or night, you will find some of the most jaw-dropping views in the country right here. There are two observation decks: one on the 86th floor and another on the 102nd. Whichever you choose, you’ll soon realize why this is one of the most famous places in the Big Apple.
Address: 350 5th Ave, New York City, NY 10118
Found on the banks of the famous National Mall, the Washington Monument is a towering attraction essential. This structure rises more than 555 feet to look over the national mall, the Lincoln memorial, and numerous other key attractions in D.C.
If you come in the spring, you’ll even be able to see some of those dazzling D.C. cherry blossoms in full bloom! But regardless of the season, you’ll be greeted by lush greens, still waters, and some awe-inspiring monuments. It really is one of the most iconic places in America!
Address: 2 15th St NW, Washington DC 20007
Also Read: Famous Landmarks in Washington, D.C.
Standing at a perfect 630 feet by 630 feet, the Gateway Arch is Missouri’s most iconic landmark. It was erected as a symbol of the westward expansion of America. Now it is a welcoming beacon to all travelers coming from the southeast, and while it is not directly in downtown St. Louis, it is close enough to walk or take a shuttle. There are rolling green plains at the base of this structure that is perfect for an afternoon picnic or a couple of memorable photographs with the family.
Accommodation: Where to stay in St. Louis
Address: 100 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102
Stretching across the Golden Gate Strait comes one of the most famous landmarks in California. Known for the intro to “Full House” , a cameo in “Superman” , and several other popular media outlets; this is one of the most famous attractions in the US.
It is free to walk or bike across this bridge, although there is a toll heading out that starts at about $7. There are also two observation decks on either side of the bridge that are perfect for those prime vacation shots. Watch the sunlight reflect against the water and make the red shine for a view you won’t soon forget.
Accommodation: Where to stay in San Francisco
Address: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA 94129
Winding and running through the heart of the city, the Chicago River comes with an accompanying Riverwalk, perfect for a good stroll. It is also ideal to stop and take a few pictures, both of the city and the river itself. You can also have some fun on the actual water (when it isn’t frozen over), such as water taxis or kayaks. Locals and tourists alike come to wade in the wonder that is the Chicago River.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Chicago
Address: Chicago, IL 60601
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Chicago
Hollywood Sign needs no introduction as one of the most famous places in the United States. Whether you’ve seen it in movie theatres or pictures, you’re sure to know the one. It is a 45-foot tall sign mounted on a hill overlooking some of that famous L.A. beauty. While you can’t walk up to the letters themselves, you can hang out at the observation area a few miles out. Here you can take pictures, pose, and marvel at an attraction that has been big since 1923.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Los Angeles
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90068
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles
Take a breath of fresh air and hike the stunning trails of Zion National Park. This is a massive expanse of all things golden, green, and beautiful. Typically, Zion’s peak months run through March to October because that is when the climate is best for adventuring.
The colors here are crisp, lush, and truly breathtaking, so be sure to bring a camera with plenty of storage! Even if you don’t come during peak season, there is still an abundance of things to explore with the wonders of Zion National Park.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Springdale
Address: Springdale, UT 84767
Famous for the likes of Bourbon Street or Rue Bourbon, the French Quarter of New Orleans is an incredibly lively nightlife scene. It is the place to go if you are looking for a night to remember in a place as eccentric as its drinks. The French Quarter, or the “Old Square”, is named this because of the French settlers who established this city in 1718. Since its inclusion into the United States, New Orleans has only risen in popularity--- with the French Quarter at the centerfold of it all.
Accommodation: Where to stay in New Orleans
Address: 600 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Have a truly magical vacation! Disneyland has been one of the top family vacation spots in the US since its creation in 1955. Here you can play, ride, watch, shop, explore, and so much more, all in the thrilling expanse of one theme park. And since it is such a target family destination, there is plenty to do for people of all ages.
Take the kids to a show they’ll never forget or join your friends on some of the adrenaline-seeking rollercoasters. There is so much to see, do, and enjoy here that you’ll never be bored with the wondrous mind of Disney.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Anaheim
Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802
If you like the hustle and bustle of the local community, you’re going to love Seattle’s very own Pike Place! It is essentially a farmer’s market that sits on the banks of the Elliott Bay waterfront. It features a wide array of goods, from handmade handbags to some of the freshest fruit in the area. Pike Place is the oldest farmer’s market in the nation, and it is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all your shopping (or perusing) needs.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Seattle
Address: 85 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101
Also Read: Top 10 Best Farmers' Markets in the USA
Take a hike! In fact, take several! Yellowstone National Park is one of the most visited national parks in America, and with good reason. It boasts of lush natural forest, babbling brooks, and shaded paths that take you deep into the heart of Mother Nature. There are even hot springs, geysers, and some truly magnificent waterfalls you just can’t find anywhere else. Yellowstone definitely deserves its place on the list of most iconic places in the USA.
Accommodation: Where to stay near Yellowstone National Park
Address: Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Also Read: Top 10 Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park
O say can you see this American wonder? Mount Rushmore is a historic and famous sight that earns its place on any bucket list of the United States. Nestled in South Dakota, this is one of the great, wide-open space attractions that you can spend the day at.
The main feature of the Mount Rushmore National Memorial is, of course, the four historical figures carved into the mountain. These four are George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. It is a wonderful mixture of natural, historical, and man-made beauty all in one place.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Keystone
Address: 13000 S Dakota 244, Keystone, SD 57751
Often known primarily as a honeymoon destination comes an unforgettable vacation! Niagara Falls is arguably one of the famous places in the USA one must visit. The American side of Niagara Falls has some of the best boat tours available, with viewing platforms that get the massive centerpiece in just the right frame. While the falls on the U.S. are known as a bit ‘smaller’ than their counterpart, it is just a short ride (or walk on the rainbow bridge) to the Canadian side! Twice the beauty in one site.
Accommodation: Where to stay in Niagara Falls
Address: 24 Buffalo Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, 14303
Also Read: 10 Best Things To Do In And Around Niagara Falls, New York
Boasting unmatched vistas, unrivaled hikes, photography opportunities, and fresh air, The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most-visited national parks in the US for a reason. The look down the ancient Grand Canyon is iconic, but the entire backcountry of the national park offers stunning scenery, camping, and fantastic places to walk. This is somewhere that you'll probably want to spend multiple days if only to gawp at the beauty that surrounds you.
Do you want to visit a real piece of American history? Well, you need to take a trip to the Kennedy Space Center. Over the years, multiple space shuttle launches have happened at Kennedy Space Center, but the most iconic was Apollo 11, which took the very first astronauts to the moon. Seen globally by millions, this is one of America’s famous places. Take a trip here, and you’ll see some of the old space shuttles, browse through the museum, and even get an idea of what it is like to be a real astronaut.
Address: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32899
With over $1.5 billion in coffers, the J. Paul Getty Museum is said to be the richest museum in the world. You really can tell that they have put these funds to good use once you enter the complex, too. Part art museum, part architectural marvel, and part pristine gardens, the allure of the J. Paul Getty Museum just reels you in. There are some stunning works of art here too, including a few Rembrandt, a few Medieval manuscripts, and some Monets. All are displayed in a recreation of an Ancient Roman villa. Go and see why it is one of the most visited places in America.
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Do you like your beautiful rock formations? Well, you'll need to make a beeline for The Wave in Arizona. It won't be easy to reach, though. It is famed for the incredibly difficult hike you must go through to get there. However, once you're at the wave, you'll be awestruck by the beautiful, sweeping wavelike pattern that washes over the Navajo Sandstone. It is a sight you won't see anywhere else in the world.
Address: Marble Canyon, AZ 86036
When The Bean was first built in Chicago, the locals loathed it. They couldn't fathom why somebody would make a structure that looked like nothing more than a drop of mercury. Once they realized the number of visitors The Bean was able to attract, they very quickly came to love it. While we can't say that you should make a trip to Chicago just to see The Bean, if you're in the area, go and have a look. It is a perfect piece of modern art.
Address: Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Alcatraz Island is a small island located about 1.5 miles off the coast of San Francisco. Back in the day, it was home to a prison. Because Alcatraz Island was out there in rather choppy waters, it was said to be impossible to escape from and, to date, there has been no evidence somebody ever escaped, although they did try. Take a boat out to this island, and you can see the place where notorious criminals, such as Al Capone, spent their final years.
Address: San Francisco, CA 94133
Standing at over 730 feet tall and 1,200 feet wide, the Hoover Dam is one of the largest manmade dams in the world. It is a true feat of architectural engineering. Built by thousands and thousands of workers, the Hoover Dam attracts over 7 million visitors per year, mostly for photo opportunities. Built on the Black Canyon part of the Colorado River, the sheer strength of the Hoover Dam has created Lake Mead, and the amount of water pumping through the dam has helped to power surrounding cities, including Las Vegas.
Also Read: Most Amazing Dams in America
Billed as the largest home in the United States, Biltmore is a historic mansion built in the late 1800s. It looks like it has been whipped straight out of England, hitting many of the same architectural notes. A walk through the museum will introduce you to the old 1800s style of living, including a peak at the owner's living quarters, servant's quarters, gardens, and so much more. You probably wouldn't be able to see every single room on a single trip; the museum is just that large!
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
Also Read: Top Asheville Attractions & Things To Do
It was the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that drew the United States into World War II. As a result, it is one of the most important places in America. Pearl Harbor is still a working US Navy harbor, so if you want to see some epic modern ships, you can. However, the main reason why people take a trip to Pearl Harbor is to look at the history of the area. There is a Pearl Harbor visitor museum, plus opportunities to look at some of the ships that were sunk on that fateful day, including the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma, and USS Utah.
Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
In 7500 BC, a group of Paleo-Indians moved into the Mesa Verde region. Here, they started to construct something known as the Foothills Mountain Complex, which is essentially lots of small, square buildings scattered around the mountains in the area. Examples of these buildings remain, and the Mesa Verde National Park helps to protect this essential part of Native American culture. This is why most people visit Mesa Verde National Park. Still, there is so much more to explore here, too, including over 1,000 species of plants and animals, great hikes, camping, and information about the inhabitants of this area.
Address: Mesa Verde, CO 81330
The Mackinac Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. It spans 26,372 feet and connects the upper and lower parts of Michigan. A drive across this bridge is awe-inspiring, but if you’re in the area, make sure you swing by at night. Bring a camera. You’ll want to snap a few photos of it lit up. We don’t think there is a more stunning-looking bridge in the US, and we’re including the Golden Gate Bridge in that!
Address: Mackinaw City, MI 49701
Also Read: Most Famous Bridges in the USA
Love a bit of shopping? In the dying age of shopping malls, the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, has survived. Spread over 4 floors, the Mall of America has hundreds of stores, a cinema, an aquarium, and even a theme park. It is a tribute to consumerism but a lovely place to visit, especially if you want the ultimate US shopping experience.
Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425
Also Read: The Biggest Shopping Malls in the USA
Want a break from the cities? Well, Acadia National Park is a beautiful area. Sitting on the Atlantic Coast, this 47,000-acre area has it all. You've got woods, rocky beaches, granite mountains (the biggest being Cadillac Mountain), and loads of wildlife. Spend some time around Acadia National Park, and you can see moose, whales, bears, and more.
Arlington National Cemetery is perhaps the most famous cemetery in the United States. Maintained by the US Army, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 400,000 active service members, with nearly 30 being added to the cemetery daily. The main highlight is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by some of the best US soldiers. It houses the coffin of an unknown soldier from multiple wars and is meant to be a tribute to all those who lost their lives in battle, known or unknown. This is one of the most famous places to visit in the US, both for Americans and foreign tourists.
Also Read: Most Beautiful Cemeteries in the US
Balboa Park is an urban park in the heart of San Diego. It boasts countless museums, including the Comic-Con Museum, San Diego Art Institute, and San Diego History Center. It also has the San Diego Zoo, Old Globe Theatre, and more. It is a cultural hub for San Diego and is somewhere you'll want to spend a lot of time, especially if you wish to learn more about the planet that we live on.
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Also Read: Top San Diego Attractions & Things To Do
Cape Cod is an arm-shamed peninsula with a few surrounding islands. It is home to several small towns and villages and is one of the more popular summer destinations for residents of the US, although it attracts a fair number of foreign tourists too. Everywhere you look, Cape Cod is beautiful. You have the sun, sea, sand, lovely villages, ancient buildings, and great food. It is more than worth a visit.
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Cape Cod
Denali National Park and Preserve is 6 million acres of wilderness in Alaska, so a trip here certainly isn't for the faint of heart. However, those who brave the snowy tundra will enjoy one of the last great American wildernesses. The main highlight is the tallest peak in the US, the snow-capped Denali Mountain. Wild animals are everywhere, with bears and moose the most easily spotted. Denali is one of the must-visit places for those who want to do a spot of challenging mountaineering in the US.
Also Read: Things To Do In Denali National Park
Graceland is famed for being the home of the King of Rock and Roll 'Elvis Presley'. It is now a house museum, with much of the building preserved in the way it would have looked back in Elvis' day, although many of his more private rooms (including the room he passed away in) have been locked off from the public. You can also pay tribute at Elvis' grave here. If you love your Rock n' Roll, then Graceland is a must-visit. It is truly one of the most famous tourist attractions in the USA.
Address: 3734 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Memphis
Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the world. Humans have lived in this area for thousands of years, and it played a vital role in the lives of the early inhabitants of Kentucky (long before it became Kentucky). Mammoth Cave is easy to access for tourists, with most of the parts of the cave system being walkable. The surrounding national park offers tons of hiking, canoeing, and cycling opportunities.
Also Read: Best Caves & Caverns in the USA
We love a good boardwalk for ourselves, and if a city has a boardwalk, it is a must-visit. It is New Jersey where all this began, with Atlantic City and Boardwalk being the very first boardwalk in the world (and remains one of the largest). It is right in Atlantic City, so it is a must-visit for those intending to gamble there. However, there's so much more to do here for the non-gamblers, including lots of shopping, eating, and even a mini amusement park. If you want to visit one of the greatest amusement parks in the world, then it is the Atlantic City Boardwalk.
Also Read: Best Beach Boardwalks in the USA
The White Sands National Park is very self-descriptive. It is a national park with nothing but white sand flats stretching as far as the eye can see. The area is almost desolate but has played an essential role in the history of humans in the US, with discovered footprints dating back over 20,000 years!
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in New Mexico
The US is the home of Rock & Roll music, so it makes sense that one of the most iconic places in the USA is a Hall of Fame dedicated to it. This beautiful museum offers both temporary and permanent exhibits covering the history of music around the world, with a major focus on Rock & Roll (although there's more than that here). The museum often has exhibits dedicated to that year's Hall of Fame inductees.
Address: 1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Cleveland
Cannon Beach is a small, sandy beach in a small town in Oregon. It is a popular summer destination with beautiful scenery (including the iconic Haystack Rock). It is also famous for nature lovers, with moose roaming the countryside and tufted penguins around the beach. Cannon Beach is a nice escape, and while it isn't that famous outside the US, it is easily one of the more famous destinations within.
The Savannah Historic District is one of the largest historic districts in the US. Many of the buildings in this area are pre-civil war buildings. The area has museums, Civil War forts, cultural events, theater, and more. A trip to the Savannah Historic District is like taking a trip back in time.
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Savannah
Colonial Williamsburg is the world's largest living history museum. This 301-acre area is packed with buildings from the 17th to 19th century, back when Virginia was still a low-populated state. Colonial Williamsburg is meant to give visitors an idea of what it was like to live in the area back in the 1700s, and it does a tremendous job at it. Many of the buildings are original, and you'll get to explore the entertainment, way of life, food, and more from the area.
Also Read: Most Amazing Living History Museums in the USA
There you have it! These are the 50 most famous places in the USA that every American should visit in their lifetime. The United States is truly a diverse collection of all things interesting. Try your luck at the Strip in Las Vegas, or simply surround yourself with the sounds of nature at Yosemite. From nightlife to natural beauty, you are sure to find something that's just your type!