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Written by: Emily Chen
Landmarks in the USA
- Updated: September 30, 2023 | Published:
The United States of America is a land of contrasts, offering a unique tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and histories that beckon travelers from near and far. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene wilderness of national parks, the country is home to an incredible array of landmarks that showcase its rich heritage and breathtaking beauty.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a coast-to-coast journey, exploring 50 unforgettable landmarks in the USA as one of top travel destinations worldwide.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first cross-country adventure, this article will introduce you to world-famous sites and hidden gems alike, providing a snapshot of the diverse and captivating experiences the United States has to offer.
Iconic Landmarks in the USA
1. The Statue of Liberty, New York
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- What to Expect: A tour of the statue and its museum, the view from the pedestal or crown, audio tours, and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
- Ideal For: Families, solo travelers, history enthusiasts
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 4.5 million
- Geographical Location: East Coast, New York City
The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States in 1886, symbolizes freedom and democracy. Located on Liberty Island in New York City, the statue stands 305 feet tall and is accessible via ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Visitors can explore the statue’s museum, which delves into its history, construction, and significance.
The museum also features exhibits on the statue’s restoration and its role as a symbol of freedom. Audio tours are available, providing insightful commentary as you explore the island. For those who book tickets in advance, access to the pedestal and crown is granted, offering stunning views of the New York skyline.
Also, don’t miss the nearby Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which documents the immigrant experience in the United States.
2. The Grand Canyon, Arizona
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- What to Expect: Breathtaking views, hiking trails, river rafting, helicopter tours, mule rides, and the Grand Canyon Skywalk
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, families, solo travelers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 6 million
- Geographical Location: Southwestern United States, closest major city is Las Vegas, Nevada (approximately 270 miles away)
The Grand Canyon, a geological wonder, stretches over 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and one mile deep. This natural landmark attracts millions of visitors annually who come to marvel at the colorful rock formations and take in the spectacular views from various lookout points, such as Mather Point and Yavapai Point.
The canyon offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, including the popular Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail. Visitors can also enjoy river rafting, helicopter tours, mule rides, and the thrilling Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon’s edge.
The Grand Canyon is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families looking for an unforgettable experience. The closest major city is Las Vegas, Nevada, approximately 270 miles away.
3. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and early Fall
- What to Expect: Presidential Trail, Sculptor’s Studio, evening lighting ceremony, visitor center exhibits, and the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial
- Ideal For: Families, history buffs, solo travelers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 2.5 million
- Geographical Location: Midwest United States, closest major city is Rapid City, South Dakota (approximately 23 miles away)
Mount Rushmore is a colossal sculpture featuring the faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln, carved into the granite of the Black Hills in South Dakota. The best time to visit is during the summer and early fall when the weather is pleasant.
The Presidential Trail, a short hiking path, provides close-up views of the sculpture, while the Sculptor’s Studio showcases the tools and techniques used during construction. The evening lighting ceremony, held from late May to early September, is a must-see event.
The visitor center offers exhibits on the history and significance of Mount Rushmore, and the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial is another popular attraction in the area. The closest major city is Rapid City, South Dakota, approximately 23 miles away.
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4. The White House, Washington D.C.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- What to Expect: Guided tours, nearby museums and monuments, the White House Visitor Center
- Ideal For: Families, history enthusiasts, solo travelers, couples
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 100,000 (tour visitors)
- Geographical Location: East Coast, Washington D.C.
The White House, the official residence of the President of the United States, is an iconic symbol of American politics and history. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C., the building is open for guided tours, which must be requested through one’s member of Congress up to three months in advance.
Visitors can also explore the numerous museums and monuments nearby, such as the Smithsonian Institution, the National Mall, and the Washington Monument. The White House Visitor Center offers exhibits and information about the history and significance of the presidential residence. The White House is suited for families, history enthusiasts, solo travelers, and couples.
5. The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
- Best Time to Visit: September to November
- What to Expect: Scenic views, walking or biking across the bridge, nearby parks and attractions
- Ideal For: Couples, families, solo travelers, photographers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 10 million
- Geographical Location: West Coast, San Francisco, California
The awe-inspiring Golden Gate Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate Strait, is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. The best time to visit is during the fall when the weather is mild and the summer fog has cleared.
Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge, taking in the stunning views of San Francisco Bay and the surrounding landscape. Guided tours are also available, providing fascinating insights into the bridge’s history and construction.
Nearby attractions include the Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, and the picturesque town of Sausalito, which can be reached via ferry. The Golden Gate Bridge is situated in San Francisco, California, on the West Coast of the United States.
6. The Space Needle, Seattle
- Best Time to Visit: Summer
- What to Expect: Panoramic views, rotating glass floor, dining at the SkyCity restaurant, and the nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit
- Ideal For: Families, couples, solo travelers, photographers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 1.3 million
- Geographical Location: West Coast, Seattle, Washington
Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle is a futuristic observation tower offering stunning panoramic views of Seattle, Washington, and its surroundings, including Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is clear and sunny. The tower features a rotating glass floor and an observation deck, which provides a 360-degree view of the city. Visitors can also dine at the SkyCity restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience with revolving views.
The nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, showcasing the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, is another popular attraction worth exploring. The Space Needle is located in Seattle, Washington, on the West Coast of the United States.
7. Niagara Falls, New York
- Best Time to Visit: Summer
- What to Expect: Panoramic views, rotating glass floor, dining at the SkyCity restaurant, and the nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit
- Ideal For: Families, couples, solo travelers, photographers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 1.3 million
- Geographical Location: West Coast, Seattle, Washington
Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, the Space Needle is a futuristic observation tower offering stunning panoramic views of Seattle, Washington, and its surroundings, including Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges.
The best time to visit is during the summer when the weather is clear and sunny. The tower features a rotating glass floor and an observation deck, which provides a 360-degree view of the city. Visitors can also dine at the SkyCity restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience with revolving views.
The nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass exhibit, showcasing the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly, is another popular attraction worth exploring. The Space Needle is located in Seattle, Washington, on the West Coast of the United States.
8. Walt Disney World, Florida
- Best Time to Visit: January to early March, September to mid-November
- What to Expect: Four theme parks, two water parks, shopping, dining, and entertainment options
- Ideal For: Families, couples, Disney enthusiasts, solo travelers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 58 million (Magic Kingdom alone)
- Geographical Location: Southeast United States, Orlando, Florida
Walt Disney World, located in Orlando, Florida, is a massive entertainment complex that offers fun and excitement for people of all ages. The resort is home to four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—each offering a unique experience filled with attractions, shows, and character encounters.
In addition, Walt Disney World features two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, as well as shopping, dining, and entertainment at Disney Springs. The best time to visit is during the off-peak seasons of January to early March and September to mid-November when the crowds are smaller and the weather is mild. Walt Disney World is located in Orlando, Florida, in the Southeast United States.
9. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- What to Expect: Old Faithful geyser, Grand Prismatic Spring, wildlife viewing, hiking, and camping
- Ideal For: Nature lovers, families, adventure seekers, solo travelers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 4 million
- Geographical Location: Northwest United States, closest major city is Salt Lake City, Utah (approximately 320 miles away)
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as the world’s first national park, spans over 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The park is renowned for its geothermal features, such as the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, as well as its diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and bears.
The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and all park roads and facilities are open. Visitors can explore the park’s many hiking trails, enjoy ranger-led programs, and camp in one of the park’s 12 campgrounds. The closest major city is Salt Lake City, Utah, approximately 320 miles away.
10. The French Quarter, New Orleans
- Best Time to Visit: February to May
- What to Expect: Historic architecture, lively music, unique cuisine, and vibrant nightlife
- Ideal For: Couples, food enthusiasts, music lovers, solo travelers
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 18 million (New Orleans as a whole)
- Geographical Location: South Central United States, New Orleans, Louisiana
The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana. Famed for its historic architecture, with a mix of Spanish, French, and Creole styles, the French Quarter is a lively destination filled with music, unique cuisine, and vibrant nightlife.
The best time to visit is between February and May when the weather is comfortable and numerous festivals, such as Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, take place.
Visitors can stroll through the charming streets, dine on delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine, enjoy live jazz at Preservation Hall, and explore the many shops and galleries. The French Quarter is located in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the South Central United States.
11. Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- What to Expect: More than 2,600 stars honoring entertainment icons, TCL Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre, and the Hollywood Museum
- Ideal For: Movie and TV enthusiasts, families, solo travelers, couples
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 10 million
- Geographical Location: West Coast, Los Angeles, California
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, is a popular tourist attraction that pays tribute to the stars of the entertainment industry. With more than 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk, visitors can search for their favorite actors, musicians, directors, and other notable figures.
Nearby attractions include the TCL Chinese Theatre, known for its celebrity handprints and footprints; the Dolby Theatre, home to the annual Academy Awards ceremony; and the Hollywood Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame can be visited year-round, with mild weather and a variety of events taking place throughout the year. The landmark is located in Los Angeles, California, on the West Coast of the United States.
12. The Alamo, San Antonio
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- What to Expect: Historic mission and battle site, guided tours, interactive exhibits, and the nearby San Antonio River Walk
- Ideal For: History buffs, families, solo travelers, couples
- Yearly Visitor Count: Approximately 3 million
- Geographical Location: South Central United States, San Antonio, Texas
The Alamo, a historic Spanish mission and fortress compound, is best known as the site of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, during the Texas Revolution. Located in San Antonio, Texas, the Alamo is a symbol of Texan independence and a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.
The best time to visit is between November and April when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Visitors can explore the Alamo Church, the Long Barrack Museum, and the Alamo Gardens, as well as enjoy guided tours and interactive exhibits.
The nearby San Antonio River Walk, a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, is another popular attraction, offering scenic views, restaurants, and shops. The Alamo is located in San Antonio, Texas, in the South Central United States.
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