Exploring the U.S. is never a bore for the adventurers out there, and this is thanks to the countless awe-inspiring destinations littered across the country. We’ve compiled 21 stunning American landmarks everyone needs to see at least once in a lifetime.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is a natural wonder that awes visitors with both its unique rock formations and immense size. Business Insider shares that, alongside its unique layers of red rock, visitors find the glass skywalk and rafting routes through the Colorado River captivating. And there are hiking trails for the climbers here as well.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Stretching further than Wyoming into Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a treasured spot for geothermal wonders. Its main attraction is “Old Faithful,” a geyser that erupts every hour and a half, shooting water over 100 feet into the air. Yellowstone National Park also features hot springs, lush forests, and amazing canyons.
Yosemite National Park, California
Just as the NPS shares, “Yosemite Valley is world-famous for its impressive waterfalls, meadows, cliffs, and unusual rock formations; accessible by car year-round.” In Yosemite National Park, you’ll also have access to iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome that typically draw rock climbers for scenic hikes, picturesque vistas, and the tranquility of Yosemite Valley.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina
Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its mist-covered mountains and rich biodiversity. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers numerous hiking trails, historic homesteads, and vibrant wildflower displays, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park in Utah features towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and lush river valleys. The park’s striking landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, and canyoneering. And popular trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows offer exhilarating adventures and breathtaking views.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
Bryce Canyon National Park, also located in Utah, is famous for its unique hoodoos—tall, thin rock spires formed by erosion. The vibrant red, orange, and white hues of these formations create a surreal landscape. Visitors can also explore the park’s numerous hiking trails and enjoy stargazing in its dark night skies.
Niagara Falls, New York
Along the border between the United States and Canada, Niagara Falls is a powerful and mesmerizing natural wonder. The falls consist of three separate cascades, which are the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. You can get close-up views of the thundering waters through boat tours, observation decks, and hiking trails nearby.
Glacier National Park, Montana
Glacier National Park is a pristine wilderness area known for its rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park’s “Going-to-the-Sun Road” offers one of the most scenic drives in the country. And visitors can hike through alpine meadows, spot grizzly bears, and enjoy the tranquility of remote landscapes, among many other things U.S. News says you can do there.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming boasts striking mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Its Teton Range provides a dramatic backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and wildlife watching, and the park’s scenic vistas and serene environments offer a perfect escape into nature.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Maine’s Acadia National Park features rugged coastlines, granite peaks, and serene forests. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, is here and offers stunning sunrise views. What’s more, visitors can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as enjoy the picturesque charm of nearby Bar Harbor.
Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is known for its iconic red sandstone buttes and mesas. This striking landscape has been featured in numerous films and photographs, and the guided tours, led by Navajo guides, provide insight into the area’s cultural and historical significance.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park offers a unique opportunity to witness volcanic activity, explore lava tubes, and hike through diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to barren lava fields.
Everglades National Park, Florida
As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, Everglades National Park in Florida is a unique ecosystem, home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and numerous bird species. Visitors can explore the park by boat, kayak, or on foot, experiencing the beauty of its vast wetlands.
Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali National Park in Alaska is a remote and stunning wilderness area dominated by North America’s highest peak, Denali. The park’s diverse landscapes range from taiga forests to high alpine tundra, and animals such as grizzly bears, moose, and caribou roam freely, offering incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Arches National Park, Utah
Famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches, Arches National Park in Utah awes with its red rock landscapes. These create a dramatic and otherworldly environment, with hiking trails and special viewpoints providing access to iconic formations such as Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch—perfect for photography and exploration.
Redwood National and State Parks, California
Redwood National and State Parks in California protect some of the tallest trees on Earth, the coastal redwoods. You’ll definitely find walking among these ancient giants a humbling and unforgettable experience. The parks also feature scenic coastal drives, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, making them a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Mount Rainier National Park in Washington is centered around the majestic Mount Rainier, an active stratovolcano. The park offers a variety of landscapes, from lush meadows filled with wildflowers to glaciers and old-growth forests. Hiking, climbing, and wildlife viewing are popular activities in this stunning park.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Antelope Canyon in Arizona is a breathtaking slot canyon known for its wave-like structure and stunning light beams that filter through narrow openings. The canyon’s sandstone walls have been sculpted by water over time, creating a mesmerizing display of colors and shapes, which you get to experience through helpful guided tours.
The Wave, Arizona
Located in the Coyote Buttes North area, The Wave is a striking sandstone formation renowned for its undulating patterns and vibrant colors. Although this geological wonder is accessible by a challenging hike, its surreal beauty allows it to remain a sought-after destination for photographers and hikers. Sadly, the Bureau of Land Management shares that only 64 people can visit per day.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Badlands National Park in South Dakota features dramatic landscapes characterized by eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. The park’s striking geological formations, mixed-grass prairies, and rich fossil beds create a unique environment. Visitors can explore scenic drives, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, including bison and bighorn sheep.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. The park’s diverse landscapes include grasslands, wetlands, and alpine forests. You can hike the dunes, sandboard, and splash in Medano Creek, all while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
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