famous tourist sites in usa

The top 19 best places to visit in the USA in 2024

Sep 3, 2024 • 17 min read

New York City never gets old, not with so many exciting and dynamic neighborhoods to explore © LeoPatrizi / Getty

The best thing about visiting the USA can be summed up in one word: variety.

This expansive country contains an incredible number of travel experiences that would take a lifetime to complete, from wandering through the redwoods to breathing in deep gulps of sea air on glimmering beaches to immersing yourself in the underground art scenes of some of the world's most famous cities.

Whether you're a nature lover looking for wide open spaces and snow-covered peaks or a culture fiend who can't get enough of museums and galleries, the United States has something for you.

Overwhelmed? Here are 19 inspiring places to visit in the USA in 2024.

1. New York, New York

Best place for art and architecture

A city that looms large in American lore, New York continues to live up to its hype. A global center for art, fashion, finance, music and food, the Big Apple will never leave you feeling bored. Sip sunset cocktails on luxurious rooftops, mosh at local punk shows, marvel at world-class art in famous museums, or indulge in the best food you've ever had at a hole-in-the-wall favorite.

Planning tip: New York has so much to offer, but resist the urge to see it all on your first trip. Break things down by neighborhood or borough , or perhaps even by interest.

2. San Francisco, CA

Best for counter-culture

San Francisco contains multitudes, offering an urban travel experience with a distinctly West Coast flavor: take in breathtaking bay views at Golden Gate Park , wander the alleyways of the country's largest and oldest Chinese neighborhood , pay homage to LGBTIQ+ heroes in the Castro, or dive into cutting-edge art at SFMOMA and a plethora of local galleries.

3. National Mall in Washington, DC

Best for national history

Washington DC's National Mall represents the center of American political life and distills its cultural history into a two-mile strip of iconic monuments and the country's most famous museums. The mall contains ten Smithsonian museums – the National Museum of Natural History , the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Museum of American History, among others – plus landmarks including the National Gallery of Art, the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol building.

4. New England

Best for forest drives and exploring charming centuries-old towns

Want to meander on mountain roads beneath brilliant forest canopies and savor tasty lobster and coastal views all in the same trip? New England is the place to be. Explore the quaint villages and cranberry bogs of Cape Cod , snuggle into a cabin in the mountains of Vermont , or dive into all the seafood you can eat in Portland, Maine . And if you visit in autumn, prepare yourself for some of the most spectacular fall foliage in the country.

5. Pacific Coast Highway

Best for West Coast exploration

The Pacific Coast Highway – technically three highways linked together – connects sunny San Diego with moody Seattle , delivering epic West Coast experiences along the 1600-mile journey. Stay at kitschy motels in coastal towns, admire the cliffs of Big Sur , marvel at the tidepools in Oregon , and explore Washington's Olympic National Park .

And be sure to visit San Simeon, a small oceanfront town famous for two things:

The Piedras Blancas Rookery , located on the Pacific Ocean in San Simeon, is the only easily accessible, free and open to the public elephant seal rookery in the world. The shores and rocks are crowded with seals lounging in the sun and barking.

Just up the road is the ultimate in mansions, the astounding Hearst Castle, the former home of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Take the tour and then visit the winery.

Planning tip : Sections of the Pacific Coast Highway run along sea cliffs prone to rockslides. Always check road conditions before setting off in case of any unexpected closures.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Best for foodies and art lovers

There's no place in the world like New Orleans – we promise. A vibrant cocktail of Indigenous, Caribbean, African, French and Spanish influences, this city possesses a unique magic that keeps people coming back for more. Dive into its legendary Creole cuisine, revel in its lively festivals, and immerse yourself in a world-class music scene – this is the birthplace of jazz, after all.

Eat a beignet heaped with powdered sugar and drink a cup of chicory coffee at Cafe du Monde at the French Market on Decatur Street, overlooking Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral. Take a tour of some of the historic mansions tucked away on side streets in the French Quarter.

Avid readers will want to visit the home of Frances Parkinson Keyes , who wrote the bestselling Dinner at Antoine’s. Then, try to get a reservation at the eponymous restaurant. It’s not easy, but it's worth it.

Be sure to go beyond the French Quarter, too, and take a bayou boat tour, explore the antique stores on Magazine Street or golf in Audubon Park .

Planning tip: New Orleans's coastal location makes it susceptible to hurricanes from June through October, with the most active months being August and September.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for Indigenous history and culture

Nicknamed the "City Different," Santa Fe is rooted in American history while still keeping up with the times. A cultural melange of Indigenous, Spanish and Mexican influences, this city is home to numerous historical sites – like the 400-year-old Plaza – and a cutting-edge art culture that features a strong contingent of independent artists and the original Meow Wolf , a game-changing immersive art installation.

Local detour : Less than an hour's drive from Santa Fe, the Puyé Cliff Dwellings , carved into the rock face and atop the Santa Clara Canyon on Santa Clara Pueblo Reservation, were once home to 1500 Pueblo Indians. Abandoned in 1580, the one-hour tours are conducted by the descendants of the original dwellers.

8. Chicago, Illinois

Best metropolis for midwestern charm

Chicago contains all the hallmarks of a great American city – excellent food, multicultural neighborhoods , and top-tier museums – with a distinctly midwestern twist. Spend your days lounging next to the ocean-like Lake Michigan, catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field , or have an evening of laughs at Second City , the launchpad for greats like Stephen Colbert and Tina Fey.

Leave your car behind and explore Millennium Park, the lakefront and the museum campus by Segway . Board a boat for a narrated tour of the architectural wonders lining the Chicago River. From the boat docks, head north for a stroll along the Magnificent Mile , the stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and the historic Water Tower , one of the few survivors of the Chicago Fire.

Planning tip : Finding a parking spot in Chicago can be both exasperating and expensive. Download one of the free parking apps on your phone and you can usually find a spot close to where you’re going at a significantly lower rate.

9. Rocky Mountains, Colorado

Best for big peaks and winter sports

If you want to see the quintessential mountains of the American West, the Rockies in Colorado should be your first stop. Rocky Mountains National Park is a logical starting point, but in truth, there are so many different ways to access this dynamic mountain range – hit the slopes in ski hubs like Vail , Aspen and Telluride, drive the scenic byways of the San Juan range, or pitch camp in one of the state's numerous national forests.

Planning tip: Unless you're from somewhere with similar elevation, you might feel the effects of altitude throughout the Rockies; stay extremely hydrated, take your time on hikes, and skip the alcohol.

10. Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina and Virginia

Best for east coast mountains

While the Rockies tend to get a lot of press – for good reason – the USA's oldest mountain range is a must-see. The Blue Ridge Mountains make up the southern third of the Appalachian Mountain chain, and the lush forests wrapped around these rolling hills make for incredible blue-green vistas from the region's many ridges and balds. Dive into the numerous day hikes, road trips, and mountain biking excursions, cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway , or hike a section of the storied Appalachian Trail .

A scenic stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway , Asheville is a charming mountain town known for its thriving culinary and music scenes. The historic Downtown Art District, with its extensive Art Deco architecture, buzzes with open-air bars, restaurants serving regional cuisine and galleries filled with both local and regional artists.

Beyond its well-deserved reputation as “Beer City,” Asheville also has an extensive list of wineries and distilleries that offer tours. Outdoor attractions include mountain biking and hiking.

Just a few miles away, the renowned Biltmore Estate , known as America’s largest house, is a dynastic fantasy of gardens, architecture, art and opulence. Touring the 175,000-square-foot home is a step into the grandeur of the past and one of the many top things to do in Asheville .

11. The Everglades, Florida

Best for wildlife watchers

The importance of the Everglades can't be overstated – this sprawling wetland is an International Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a national park, thanks to the diverse profusion of flora and fauna that live here. Paddle through the coastal estuaries and camp among mangroves, or whiz through the numerous waterways via airboat. All the while, keep your eyes peeled for wading birds, manatees, and of course, alligators and crocodiles.

Planning tip: For the best experience, come prepared for the elements: sunscreen and bug spray are essentials.

12. Southwestern Utah

Best for geology lovers

If you want to visit one place in the US that sums up the grandiosity of its natural history, southwestern Utah is the place to go. Home to five of the country's most spectacular national parks, Red Rock Country puts the region's geological past on display with a dazzling amount of artistic flair. Hike the peaks and valleys of Zion and Bryce Canyon , or marvel at the crimson, ochre and amber palette in the cliffs and canyons of Capitol Reef and Canyonlands . And if you want a special treat, watch the sun rise over the sandstone masterpieces at Arches .

Planning tip: Large swaths of this region are extremely remote and sometimes lack cell service, both on the road and on the trail. Always share your plans with others and bring plenty of water in case of emergencies.

13. Key West, Florida

Best for sunshine and seafood

A unique destination, Key West is all that you’ve heard and much more.

Catch the Nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square , a perpetual street party of food, street performers and artists selling their wares. Stroll through the historic homes districts with their large, immaculately maintained mansions and be sure to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum .

There’s no end of restaurants and bars to visit on Duval Street , but probably the most famous is Sloppy Joe’s , which opened in 1933. It’s a busy place featuring live music, good food and lots of photos of Hemingway, who used to sit at the bar in the afternoon.

Planning tip: Key West is a great walking city. To help navigate the island, download a map or stop by the city’s tourism office at 1300 White Street.

14. Charleston, South Carolina

Best for Southern charm

Live oaks dripping with Spanish moss, grand old mansions, cobblestone streets and charming neighborhoods make Charleston a must on any bucket list.

Start your day with breakfast at the Charleston City Market , which opened in 1807 and at which point Charleston was already 137 years old and a destination even then. Now, the city gets about 7 million visitors a year.

From carriage rides to sunset cruises, there are many ways to see the city . Take a bike tour, board a sailboat to see the city from Charleston Harbor, kayak or paddleboard through the bayous (keep an eye out for the dolphins), soar through the woods via zipline or drive the short distance to the string of beaches lining the shore.

Civil War buffs should visit Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historic Park, and stroll The Battery , a 1.2-mile former defensive structure overlooking the harbor with views of Fort Sumter.

Faced with the difficult decision of where to dine – Charleston’s options are overwhelming – consider the views of the harbor at Fleet Landing , a former U.S. Navy disembarkation station, or head to Hyman’s Seafood , one of the city’s oldest restaurants, opened in 1890.

Planning tip : The best time to visit Charleston is fall, when the humidity drops, and during the winter holiday season, as Charlestonians love to decorate.

15. Sedona, Arizona

Best for mountain beauty

The astounding and awe-inspiring red rock formations are just one reason to visit Sedona , with its perfect blend of cowboy culture and urban sophistication. An all-season destination , Sedona’s higher elevations attract visitors from Phoenix and places further south in the spring and summer. Fall is a blaze of color and with dusting of snow–or even more on the red rocks turns Sedona into a winter wonderland.

To experience Sedona’s natural beauty up close, take a hike at the intriguingly named Dead Horse Ranch State Ranch . Rather drive? Explore the backcountry by Jeep, ATV or Hummer. Get a bird’s eye view of Sedona from a hot air balloon.

In town, take the trolley for an overview of the town. Then hop off for some serious shopping. Stores that celebrate Western culture include True West Hats where they sell Western and custom-made hats. Clear Creek Trading Company curates Native American merchandise such as beaded bags, bolo ties, Hopi wicker baskets, artifacts like handmade deer jaw tomahawks, craft supplies and sheepskin rugs.

That Western spirit continues with sips of prickly pear margaritas at the Cowboy Club Grille & Spirits , a mainstay since opening in 1946. Away from the vibrancy of the bustling downtown but just a short distance away, dine at L'Auberge de Sedona on the banks of Oak Creek. The award-winning resort’s menu reflects French and European roots matched with local cuisine.

Planning tip : It gets cold in the mountains even on summer nights. Pack accordingly.

16. Detroit, Michigan

Best for experiencing an evolving urban landscape

Forget what you hear about this once-beleaguered city. Detroit is back, attracting 16.5 million people in 2023 and generating $9.2 million in tourist dollars. Get to know the new Detroit while celebrating the best of the old. Here are a few reasons why.

A culinary destination with many James Beard-recognized restaurants, bakeries and chefs add to a creative buzz that also includes the Detroit Institute of Arts with its massive Diego Rivera mural. Greenspaces abound for outdoor gatherings and recreational activities from the gardens and dog park at the five-acre Grand Circus Park in the city’s entertainment district to the 982-acre Belle Isle . One of the endpoints of Detroit’s award-winning Detroit International RiverWalk , visitors can explore its many cultural institutions like the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, the Belle Isle Aquarium, and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservancy.

The city’s culinary diversity reflects a wide range of ethnic cuisines and settings. The Whitney , a 19th-century mansion, is known for its gastronomy and ghosts (check out the Ghost Bar on the third floor) and gourmet food. Want less glorified but equally delicious fare? Take a seat at the Formica counter and order a chili dog at American Coney Island , family-owned since 1917. Board the Detroit Princess for a lunch or dinner river cruise.

Sports fans can take their pick from major league football, baseball, basketball, and hockey teams.

Planning tip : The Detroit People Mover is a great way to navigate the city and is currently piloting a fare-free policy for 2024.

17. Columbus, Ohio

Best for a big city with small-town charm

The fastest-growing city in the United States, Columbus is a powerhouse of arts, culture, museums, eclectic neighborhoods, and classic and cutting-edge restaurants.

Celebrate your inner German, no matter what your ethnicity or country of origin, in the German Village, with its cobblestone streets and immaculate 19th-century homes. Order the killer cream puff for dessert at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus & Restaurant , the oldest continuously operating business in the historic German Village. Not far away, the Book Loft of German Village features 28 rooms of books.

Hot Chicken Takeover, with six restaurants in Columbus, including in the wonderful North Market , is more than just a place for great Nashville-style hot chicken. It’s mission-driven to provide supportive jobs to men and women who need a fair chance at work despite their backgrounds and past problems.

Named one of the best beer cities in the US, many of the 30-plus breweries on the Columbus Ale Trail can be found in the city’s 27-acre Brewery District , sandwiched between the German Village and the Scioto River. The number of distilleries in Columbus has grown over the past few years. For tours and tastings follow the Columbus Distillery Trail , with its eight distilleries, for tours and tastings.

Take advantage of the city’s free cultural offerings. Admission to the Columbus Museum of Art , which has the world’s largest collection of works by famous local artists such as George Bellows and Elijah Pierce, is free on Sundays. The stunning Beaux-Arts style main branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library has a series of free author events as well as classes and programs. Be sure to stroll through the Topiary Garden on the street behind the library’s rear entrance. The only topiary garden in the world based upon a work of art, its meticulously hewn yew trees are shaped into a larger-than-life recreation of Georges Seurat's "Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." The John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons , a six-acre park in the heart of the downtown, features free concerts, fitness classes, and other programs throughout the year. The annual Shakespeare in the Park is just one of the free performances put on by the Actors' Theatre of Columbus that take place in Schiller Park , the city’s second oldest park.

Planning ti p: Looking for a unique place to stay? Motels like South Wind , within easy walking distance of both the German Village and the Brewery District, once were found throughout the United States. Built in 1959, it’s among the few being reimagined with their classic looks maintained but with all the modern amenities guests expect from a boutique motel.

18. Louisville, Kentucky

Best for bourbon, food, and horses

If you’re looking for a road trip destination with lots of culinary options, bourbon, history and architecture, then head to Louisville .

Some suggestions for the best things to do in this river city?

Take a ride on the Ohio River aboard the Belle of Louisville , a National Historic Landmark and the only remaining authentic steamboat of its type.

Follow the Urban Bourbon Trail to such fab places as the Brown Hotel (where the famed Hot Brown sandwich originated) and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience with its basement speakeasy. A tour of the Historic Old Louisville neighborhood is necessary for those who love 19th and early 20th-century architecture.

Enjoy cocktails and music at The Last Refuge , Bob Dylan’s new restaurant and event space set in a reimagined former church in Louisville’s trending NuLu neighborhood.

At Locust Grove Plantation, visitors learn about the histories of the enslaved people who toiled there. Meanwhile, the Muhammad Ali Center celebrates the boxing champ’s life and commitment to social justice.

Planning tip : The 21 C Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville features rotating art exhibits in its public rooms.

19. Indianapolis, Indiana

Best for a river city with a sophisticated vibe

Indianapolis is a city of surprises to those expecting a dull Midwestern destination. Visitors to the downtown can choose from a plethora of options. For museums, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the world’s largest kids museum. The 152-acre Newfields features gardens, picnic grounds, Oldfields–the historic home of the Lilly family–and the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Visit the 267-acre White River State Park , where you can explore the Indianapolis Zoo, the Eiteljorg Museum of Western Art and gondola rides on the water. Catch the Indy 500 or take a golf cart tour at the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway .

Or, explore Indy’s neighborhoods , including Massachusetts Avenue, known as Mass Ave , a five block long historic neighborhood of restaurants and shops anchored by the historic Athenaeum , a three-story German-style building from the 1800s. It’s an amazing one stop shop with a beer garden, coffee shop, Rathskeller for beer and brats and lots of events.

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The 23 top tourist attractions in the USA

Discover the top tourist attractions in the USA, from national parks to important monuments and iconic neighborhoods

The Statue of Liberty. The Golden Gate Bridge. The Washington Monument. All iconic attractions that are famous worldwide. And the list doesn't end there. Across the country, there are popular U.S. landmarks that attract millions of visitors every year. 

The top tourist attractions in the USA span coast to coast, including iconic  buildings  like the national monuments in Washington, D.C.,  unique landmarks  like the Space Needle in Seattle, and natural wonders like Niagra Falls and Old Faithful in Yellowstone. 

While visiting tourist spots can often mean navigating long lines and crowds, we've rounded up the best attractions that are   well worth the effort. And if you’re looking for a bit more travel inspiration, check out the best places to visit in the USA right now.

RECOMMENDED: The coolest observation decks in America

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top tourist attractions in the USA

1.  national mall | washington, d.c..

What is it? Immaculately maintained by the National Park Service, the National Mall and Memorial Parks feature more than 1,000 acres of must-see monuments, sites, and green space. While the Washington Monument towers above all else—quite literally, the city doesn’t zone for buildings taller than the marble icon—the Lincoln Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are just as magnificent.

Why go?  It will take a full day (or two) to see the National Mall—n ot only can you take in the grandeur and history on display at the monuments,  it also gives you easy access to check out  some of  Washington, D.C.’s top museums .

2.  Niagara Falls | New York State

What is it?  Situated on the border of New York and Canada, the three waterfalls (Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridalveil Falls) that make up Niagra Falls have the combined highest flow rate of any waterfall worldwide. Their impressive force is nothing short of awe-worthy.

Why go?  A top tourist destination since the 19th century, the unstoppable beauty and charm of Niagara Falls  make it a memorable and unique landmark. 

3.  The French Quarter | New Orleans, LA

What is it ? The oldest corner of New Orleans remains its most charming attraction. Walk down famous Bourbon Street to enjoy jazz, great nightlife and tons of food.

Why go?  While you travel on a streetcar between destinations, pay close attention to the spectacular architecture. And no trip to the French Quarter would be complete without a taste of authentic Cajun grub or a stop to pay your respects in the Cities of the Dead. 

4.  Statue of Liberty | New York City, NY

What is it?  Though she may have been born in France, the Statue of Liberty has become synonymous with America and the country’s highest-held values.

Why go?  The 151-foot-tall copper monument is worth seeing up close from aboard the free Staten Island Ferry, but you can also pay your respects in person and even step inside it while on an official tour.

5.  Old Faithful | Yellowstone Park, WY

What is it?  A cone geyser found in Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful is not entirely as predictable as it once was (it won’t erupt precisely every 74 minutes, for example) yet remains as historically exciting.

Why go>  When erupting, the geothermal feature unleashes more than 3,700 gallons of piping hot water. When you’re done marveling at the spectacle, spend at least a full day exploring the rest of the park.

6.  Mt. Rushmore | Keystone, SD

What is it?  A key road-trip destination in the Midwest,  Mt. Rushmore  is a historic monument that pays homage to four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. 

Why go?  Marvel at the work that had to go into achieving this feat— nearly 90 percent of the mountain was carved using dynamite, built by more than 400 men from 1927 to 1941. Also, the trip will be an opportunity to learn about the controversial history of Mt. Rushmore, which is bui lt on sacred Native American land. 

7.  The Strip | Las Vegas, NV

What is it?  Immortalized in a seemingly endless amount of movies, the Las Vegas Strip ’s bright lights, larger-than-life performers and casinos are burned into our collective subconscious.

Why go?  Whether planning on trying your luck at poker or looking to catch a diva’s residency, the Strip is a top destination for all things entertainment and, yes, a bit of debauchery.

8.  Smithsonian Museums | Washington, D.C.

What is it?  The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Located in the heart of this nation's capital, you can explore the  National Air & Space Museum , the National Museum Of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, and many more. The best part?

Why go? It's all free. The latest addition to the museum lineup, which opened in 2016, is the National Museum of African American History and Culture, which is a must-visit. 

9.  The Grand Canyon | Arizona

What is it?  So, about five to six million years ago, the Colorado River more or less established its route through the Arizona desert. Glacial erosion, meltwater runoff and the simultaneous counter effect of the land slowly rising—as the weight of the glaciers was reduced—ultimately resulted in one of the most spectacular natural wonders on our modest, little blue-green planet. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long, varies between four and 18 miles wide and has a maximum depth of 6,000 feet.

Why go?  There are hotels and restaurants in key locations, but for the most part, you should visit and marvel at how incredible this world is—you know, before we ruin it.

10.  Walt Disney World | Orlando, FL

What is it?  It can't get much more iconic than Walt Disney World . Since its grand opening in 1971, this legendary wonderland has been a dream destination for millions from every corner of the globe. In fact, Disney World welcomes about 58 million guests each year, making it the most visited vacation resort on the planet.

Why go?  From Magic Kingdom to Epcot to Hollywood Studios, every day at Disney World promises visitors a whole lot of magic no matter how you spend your time there. 

11.  J. Paul Getty Museum | Los Angeles, CA

What is it?   The Getty brings visitors from across the country and around the world to California. The $1 billion facility, designed by internationally renowned architect Richard Meier, features travertine and white-metal pavilions, highlighting the complex’s futuristic frame.

Why go?  Inside, find one of the most exciting art collections—including Medieval manuscripts, paintings by Van Gogh and Monet, and modern sculptures.

12.  Kennedy Space Center | Orlando, FL

What is it?  If you’ve always dreamed of working in outer space, this is your chance to see and touch models of space shuttles, rockets, satellites, tools and mission control rooms. 

Why go?  The simulators and explorable modules at the Kennedy Space Center will make you feel like an actual astronaut—though if you wonder just how much the experience compares to the real deal, you can meet one of those brave scientists in person at the Astronaut Encounter Theater.

13.  Golden Gate Bridge | San Francisco, CA

What is it?  Name a more iconic bridge—we'll wait. There's a reason the Golden Gate Bridge is so famous. With its vibrant international orange color and spanning from San Francisco to the Marin headlines, stands as a symbol of the West. 

Why go?  There are countless ways to take in the stunning bridge views: head to a beach (try Baker Beach), head to the new Presidio Tunnel Tops Park, go to a vista overlook, or get up close and personal by crossing the bridge by foot or bike. A trip to San Francisco isn't complete until you get a picture with the Golden Gate in the background.

14.  Little Havana | Miami, FL

What is it?  After decades of serving as a home to Cuban exiles, Little Havana has become a must-visit destination in its own right.

Why go?  While out on the town, throwback rum-spiked Caribbean drinks and dance the night away to live rumba and salsa music. The food here is legendary : Cuban sandwiches, Colombian arepas, savory tacos and other Latin American dishes will leave your mouth watering.

15.  Pearl Harbor | Oahu, Hawaii

What is it?  Honoring the "day that will live in infamy," the  Pearl Harbor  National Memorial educates visitors on the surprise attack by the Japanese  on Pearl Harbor in 1941, which prompted the United States to formally enter World War II.

Why go?  The compound is made up of five historic sites in Central Oʻahu—you can hear first-hand stories from those who were on the scene, visit an airplane hangar damaged on that date, and pay your respects to those who were killed. An important stop on any trip to Oahu. 

16.  Hoover Dam | Nevada

What is it?  Perhaps the best example of America’s building prowess in the first half of the 20th century, this dam remains a bewildering feat of engineering and labor. Construction started in 1931 and took five years, 5,000 workers and 3.25 million cubic yards of concrete to complete.

Why go?  Today, you can tour the dam and its power plant to learn more about the facility’s history and unique features.

17.  The Gateway Arch | St. Louis, MO

What is it?  Not only is St. Louis’s premiere attraction the world’s largest arch, but the Gateway Arch  is also the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere.

Why go?   Standing proud at 630ft tall, this metal beauty was built in the mid-20th century as a monument to America’s westward expansion and is meant to signify the connection of the East to the West, honoring the country’s first pioneers. To fully understand this architectural wonder, snag a ticket to the Gateway Arch Tram and ride to the top of the monument.

18.  Mammoth Cave Park | Kentucky

What is it?  With more than 400 miles explored, Mammoth Cave Park  is the world’s longest-known cave system (by far). It is in Kentucky, and it welcomes any visitor not afraid of the dark or the damp. During a guided tour by a park ranger, see the dramatic passages lined with geological formations that might inspire your inner explorer.

Why go?  The tours vary in length, but they always include historical details about how the cave system was formed and how people and other creatures interacted with it. After several hours in the caverns, appreciate the beauty of the clear waters and the untouched nature of the area while on a bike ride or canoe adventure.

19.  Space Needle | Seattle, WA

What is it?  Like many famous landmarks, Seattle’s iconic Space Needle was built for the World’s Fair, back in 1962 when the theme was “The Age of Space.” 

Why go?   Today, the Space Needle remains one of the most recognizable and photographed landmarks worldwide for its futuristic design.  Standing at 605 feet tall, visitors can take an elevator up to the tower’s saucer-shaped top floor with 360-degree views. Recent renovations resulted in a multi-level viewing experience with floor-to-ceiling glass viewing that will make your stomach drop.

20.  Navy Pier | Chicago, IL

What is it?  Clearly, one of the Midwest’s most popular destinations, Navy Pier is visited by roughly nine million people each year. From excellent shopping opportunities to eateries and, of course, Lake Michigan, the destination offers something for everyone.

Why go?  The little ones will be delighted by the Chicago Children’s Museum , while grown-ups should head to the award-winning Chicago Shakespeare Theater . 

21.  Alcatraz | San Francisco, CA

What is it?   Alcatraz is a formidable fortress in the middle of San Francisco Bay that was converted from a lighthouse station to a military prison in the 1870s. However, it found genuine acclaim after being upgraded to a maximum-security prison in 1934, home to the early 20th-century’s most notorious criminals.

Why go?  Today, the tiny island is only accessible to the public via a ferry from Pier 33 Alcatraz Landing. You should plan to spend about three hours soaking up the amazing history and during that time, a self-guided audio cellhouse tour narrated by former inmates and guards will fill you in on harrowing escape attempts, prison riots and the 19-month-long occupation of the site by Native Americans demanding reparation for broken treaties in 1969. 

22.  Venice Beach | Venice, CA

What is it?  Wedged in between Marina del Ray and Santa Monica, Venice Beach is one of the biggest draws for visitors to Los Angeles. 

Why go?  It's firmly established as the bohemian epicenter of Southern California and you won't find a higher concentration of recognizable landmarks from film and TV anywhere else in Los Angeles. At weekends, during the summer, it gets pretty packed, but that just adds to the slightly chaotic atmosphere. Street acts add a carnival feel to the proceedings, plus, of course, the beach is just a few feet away. Try Hinano Cafe  for a great burger in a back-to-basics, spit 'n sawdust setting and the newly refurbished Pier House for classic cocktails as the sun sets over the Pacific.

23.  Alamo Mission | San Antonio, TX

What is it?  Most Americans know the phrase 'Remember the Alamo' even if they’re not exactly sure what transpired at the 18th-century Spanish mission. Later secularized and used as a fortress, 1836,  the Alam o was the site of a bloody and decisive battle of the Texas Revolution between Texas’s early Anglo settlers and Mexico (the latter won).

Why go?  One of the most visited historic sites in the country today, the fort welcomes about three million visitors annually. 

More great things to do in the USA

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