Top 16 Tourist Attractions in the USA

Top 16 Tourist Attractions in the USA

America is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world and some of the most recognizable icons on the planet. Many of the top attractions in the United States are bucket list destinations, attracting visitors worldwide. (Tourist Attractions in the USA)

The first step is to compile a list of places to visit. But remember, given the United States’ size, most people plan their trips for a specific area, whether it’s the East Coast, the Southwest, the beaches of Florida or California, or outlying regions like Hawaii and Alaska. You may want to take in the sights of the city or visit parks and natural areas. Sometimes, you can combine the two if you plan a trip for a day or two.

With incredible destinations spread across the country, plenty of options await you. For anyone in the deep position of having unlimited time and resources, these are the top attractions to include in your itinerary.

Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to current global health and safety issues.

1. Grand Canyon

This incredible natural attraction is one of the most visited places in the United States. Carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon cuts deep into the landscape, creating dramatic rock walls and ledges. Visitors standing at the canyon’s edge can look up to a mile down the valley floor and see the ridges and cliffs as far as the eye can see.

The South Rim, approximately 4.5 hours by car from Las Vegas, is the most visited section of Grand Canyon National Park. This is where you’ll find a large visitor centre, regular bus service along the rim in high season, and a walkway running along the canyon with several viewing points and platforms. Many great hikes leave from here, including the Bright Angel Trail.

Grand Canyon

The Skywalk, a glass bridge that runs down the side of the Grand Canyon, is another popular attraction. It is located at Eagle Point on the West Rim. The area is about a four-hour drive from the South Rim but typically less than a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas. This area is a good choice if you plan a day trip from Las Vegas.

The North Rim, which also has lookout areas, offers a different perspective. This part of the park is less visited and has limited access from November to May due to snow and winter conditions.

2. Niagara Falls

Located on the Canada-US border, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. Water from Lake Erie flows over these giant springs into Lake Ontario, known for the large volume of water continuously falling on a vertical drop.

Niagara Falls is a set of three falls: it includes the most extensive section, known as Horseshoe Falls, which has a drop of 187 feet; the second section on the American side of the river, known as the American Falls, with a drop of 89 feet; and a much thinner section next to the American Falls, known as Bridal Veil Falls, with a drop of 78 feet.

Views are good on both sides of the river, but the Canadian side gives a very different perspective and is well worth the visit if you don’t feel like crossing the border into Canada.

Summer is the most popular time to visit Niagara Falls when the weather is warm, the gardens are in bloom, and it’s pleasant to walk around. Winter offers a unique opportunity to see snow-capped beaches, snow-covered railings, road signs and trees. It is truly a winter wonderland.

On clear days, the haze layer rising from Niagara Falls can be seen as far away as the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, on the opposite shore of Lake Ontario.

3. Statue of Liberty

A universal symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty is America’s most familiar symbol and the giant statue in the world. Standing proudly in New York Harbor, visitors can admire the statue from various points in the city, notably Battery Park, or take a ferry to the statue.

For those who plan to head out to the statue, options include Ground Tickets, Pedestal Tickets or Crown Tickets, which allow different levels of access to the site. One of the best options is to tour and see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. A popular tour skip-line is the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Tour + Pedestal Ticket Upgrade, which will remove all the complexities of seeing this view.

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4. White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States and should be at the top of your list of things to see in Washington. This historic structure has been the home of every President except George Washington. Lafayette Park is on the north side of the White House; Beyond is a pedestrian-only area full of exciting characters and an excellent place to get a great picture.

It was initially built by James Hoban in 1792 and, after being burned by the British Army in 1814, was rebuilt again in 1818. Tours of the White House are free, but reservations must be made at least three weeks in advance. Strict safety rules always apply.

5. Walt Disney World Resort

This mega amusement park in Orlando is the top family attraction in America and has been catering to both young and old for decades. Opened in 1971, Walt Disney World has maintained its relevance and attractions for children and even many adults throughout the years.

Not only does Walt Disney World Resort include a variety of theme parks, water parks, Downtown Disney with shopping and theatre, and much more, from fine dining to golf. This is a place where you can spend a day or a week.

If you need a bit of sand and surf, Florida’s Atlantic Coast beaches are only an hour away.

6. Waikiki

Waikiki has been a tourist destination for more than a century, home to the most popular beach in the Hawaiian Islands and possibly the most famous beach in the Pacific. Today the area is a cross between a tropical paradise and a modern city.

Relaxing on this beautiful stretch of sand with palm trees swaying in the wind will tell you you’re in the tropics, but the tall buildings and busy road behind remind you that you are not far from civilization. Shopping, dining, surfing and sunbathing make this small part of Oahu so popular with tourists from all over the world.

7. Las Vegas Strip

Walking along the Las Vegas Strip, the main street leading through the city past the mega-resorts is like walking into an amusement park for adults. Recreation of the New York skyline, the Eiffel Tower, Venice’s canals, and many other exotic sites line this famous street.

Starting at one end with the Luxor Hotel, designed in the shape of a pyramid, a stroll down the street will reveal an erupting volcano and dancing fountains. At the same time, there are all kinds of oddities and entertainment inside the resorts. Many of the best things to see and do in Las Vegas are places that can be visited for free.

One of the main attractions in Las Vegas is the constant lineup of shows. The world-renowned singers move to Las Vegas to settle down, where they perform regularly. Unique performance groups ranging from magic to comedy and acrobatics can also be seen here at night.

When you have enough nightlife and city lights, you can still explore nearby attractions on a day trip from Las Vegas. Look near Death Valley National Park, Hoover Dam or Valley of Fire State Park. Explore the desert on hiking trails around Las Vegas, some of which are only minutes from downtown.

8. Yosemite National Park

One of the most loved parks in America, Yosemite National Park is one of the best places to visit in California, especially for nature lovers. Famous landmarks such as the incredible granite domes of El Capitan and the Half Dome must be visited in person to appreciate their grandeur fully. Massive waterfalls that cascade down the sheer cliffs from mountain snowfall or sudden summer rains are one of the park’s highlights.

Yosemite National Park is full of activity-based things to do, including hiking, climbing, walking, and horseback riding. Hiking trails lead to some of the most scenic areas and are an excellent way to escape the crowds.

Yosemite’s natural beauty can be enjoyed at leisurely home lunches from picnic tables for those not inclined to be physically active. You can also see the highlights on a driving tour through the park.

Accommodation in the park is limited to several lodges and very friendly campgrounds. Outside the gates, more options are available.

9. Golden Gate Bridge

Across San Francisco Bay, connecting San Francisco and Marin counties, the Golden Gate Bridge has been a symbol of California since it was built in the 1930s. In contrast to the blue water, the orange-red colour of the bridge is an aesthetic accent that brings a unique quality to the city.

It also has a unique appearance when shrouded in fog, with the peaks of the main towers projecting through the lower clouds. The bridge is approximately two miles long and is part of Hwy 101 or SR 1. If the day is clear, the best viewing spot is on Conzelman Road, located in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

10. Times Square

The bustling Times Square, famous for its glowing billboards, the countdown to New Year’s Eve and the constant crowds of people, is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. This intersection, in regular times, is about the energy one feels when standing on a corner as taxi cabs rush in and the lights flash instead of any individual sites on the square.

While it is an exciting place to visit during the day, it is probably best to visit at night to experience the full effect.

11. Freedom Trail in Boston

Boston’s Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking trail that leads to some of the city’s most important historical attractions. A row of red bricks on the pavement marks the route, making it easy for tourists to find their way.

Trail and site information can be found at the Visitor Center in Boston Common, an excellent place to start your tour. Sites along the Freedom Trail include the State House, Old State House, Old Granary Burying Ground, Old City Hall, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, and many more.

12. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is home to a massive ancient volcano, which has resulted in a dramatic landscape and terrifying natural phenomena. Geysers and hot springs, along with the incredible waterfalls along the Yellowstone River, are just a few attractions that attract many tourists each year.

The park, the oldest national park in the United States, is also home to all kinds of wildlife, including free-roaming bison, bighorn sheep, antelope, black bears, and grizzly bears.

A park is also a great place to camp, with 12 campgrounds totalling 2,000 sites.

13. San Antonio River Walk

San Antonio’s River Walk is a beautiful place and a great place to spend some time, whether you’re looking for a place to hang out, enjoy a meal, or look for souvenirs. Stretching along the San Antonio River in the city’s heart, this pedestrian zone is lined with restaurants and outdoor dining areas, serving everything from casual to fine dining.

Small boats and beautiful arch bridges along the river complete the serene view. Large old trees provide shade on the river and the walkway. The River Walk also features a variety of entertainment, with occasional live music and seasonal events.

14. Kennedy Space Center

For those who have ever dreamed of what it would be like to explode in space, a visit to the Kennedy Space Center is a must. NASA spacecraft with a history of space exploration makes for an entertaining and educational experience. It is a popular attraction with people of all ages and is one of the top things to do in Florida.

You may think your journey will be quick; See some spaceships and then go your way. However, many people are surprised when they become completely engrossed in their journey and spend most of the day at the centre. Things to see include the Rocket Garden, the Real Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Heroes and Legends Exhibit, the Journey to Mars Exposition, and many others.

15. St. Louis Arch

This famous “Gateway to the West” in St. Louis is symbolic and alluring. Rising above the city, sparkling in the midday sun and lit up at night, the arch can be seen from miles away in otherwise flat surroundings.

It was built in the early 1960s and stands in the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial Park. Lifts offer transportation to the top of the arch, where visitors are treated to spectacular views of the city and surroundings.

16. Glacier National Park and the Going-to-the-Sun Road

Montana’s Glacier National Park offers some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the United States. Mountains, lakes, glaciers, valleys and waterfalls form a spectacular alpine landscape. One of the best ways to truly appreciate the terrain is by taking the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. This narrow road hugs the side of the mountain as it flows uphill, and the 7,747-foot-plus Logan Pass opened in 1932.

Due to the altitude and climate, the road is only open during the summer months. The sights along this road are excellent, and you’ll probably wholly soak yourself up in it by stopping at the easy pullout. Glacier National Park also has some unique historic lodges, including the East Lodge, which has a spacious wooden interior. The park is also a top hiking destination in the state; Hiking trails leading to incredible alpine vistas greet those willing to put in a little effort.

The park is relatively isolated, so most people plan a few days for their visit. Accommodation is available in historic lodges and hotels in West Glacier, and if you feel like camping, there are 13 campgrounds available.

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