50 Best Places to Visit in the USA - Travel Video

The United States, slightly smaller than Europe in size, is a vast country with an incredible diversity of natural landscapes and cultures. From Hawaii's tropical islands to Arizona's Grand Canyon desert terrain, it offers breathtaking scenery. Its multicultural cities like Chicago and New York City add vibrant urban experiences to its rich tapestry.

Big Sur, located between Carmel Highlands and San Simeon along California's Highway 1, is a stunning stretch of rocky coastline. Spanning approximately 70 miles, it captivates road trip travelers with its towering redwood trees and breathtaking beaches. Beyond scenic drives, the area offers exceptional hiking opportunities through several state parks within its boundaries.

Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United States. Its National Historic Landmark district attracts tourists with its walkable downtown featuring narrow Colonial streets, unique local shops, and excellent restaurants. The cityscape includes a mix of reconstructed historic houses and grand late-19th-century hotel buildings towering above them.

Olympic National Park, located on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, is celebrated for its extraordinary natural diversity. This vast wilderness encompasses glacial mountains and lush rainforests that receive the highest rainfall in mainland USA. Over time, this precipitation has formed more than 250 glaciers within the park. Visitors can explore unforgettable trails like Hurricane Pass and The Enchanted Forest while embracing the region’s unique beauty.

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Foothills, Asheville thrives as a vibrant artsy community. Its town center boasts local boutiques, lively bars, eateries, strolling musicians, and street performers that enhance its creative atmosphere. Nearby lies the iconic Biltmore Estate—a grand chateau-style mansion built between 1889-1895—recognized as the largest privately-owned house in America with nearly 1.5 million annual visitors.

Monument Valley, with its striking sandstone buttes and vivid red-orange hues against a blue sky, is globally recognized for its unique geological features. It has been prominently featured in TV commercials, films, and magazine ads. Surrounded by an expansive desert landscape devoid of other landmarks, this breathtaking site—known as "the valley between the rocks" to the Navajo—is a must-visit destination in Arizona.

Austin: A Youthful Hub with Unique Attractions Austin, Texas stands out for its youthful vibe and unique character, epitomized by the slogan "Keep Austin Weird." The city thrives on live music and is home to the University of Texas. Visitors can explore landmarks like the pink State Capitol building—taller than its U.S. counterpart—and enjoy nature along Barton Creek or witness over a million bats at sunset from Congress Avenue Bridge.

Mount Rushmore: Monumental Tribute to Presidents Mount Rushmore showcases colossal sculptures of four iconic presidents symbolizing America's birth, growth, development, and preservation. Carved into Mount Rushmore between 1927-1941 are George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln's faces standing 18 meters tall. Tourists flock here not only to admire these majestic carvings but also learn about their creation at the Visitor Center.

Aspen: Premier Ski Destination in Colorado Rockies Nestled amidst Colorado’s Rocky Mountains lies Aspen—a world-renowned ski resort town once exclusive to elites but now open for all tourists seeking adventure or relaxation alike. Surrounded by stunning landscapes near Roaring Fork River; outdoor enthusiasts indulge themselves via hiking trails & mountain biking opportunities while winter sports lovers revel skiing across sublime slopes making it an ultimate seasonal getaway spot globally recognized today!

Cape Cod, a peninsula in eastern Massachusetts, is renowned for its summer appeal featuring lighthouses, cranberry bogs, sandy beaches, and trails within the Cape Cod National Seashore. Provincetown marks the historic first landing of the Pilgrims at its tip. Known for artist colonies and charming villages like Hyannis—famous as the Kennedy family's summer residence—the area blends natural beauty with cultural heritage.

Niagara Falls, a world-renowned natural wonder, spans Ontario in Canada and New York State in the U.S., situated on the Niagara River. It consists of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. With 6 million cubic feet of water cascading every second from the upper Great Lakes' flow, it creates an awe-inspiring spectacle that attracts approximately 30 million visitors annually.

Pittsburgh, known as the Steel City, is a vast metropolis uniquely situated at the convergence of three rivers. Its striking topography features green hills rising sharply from below. Once an industrial hub filled with warehouses and mills, these spaces now host thriving businesses and cultural institutions. The downtown skyline boasts landmarks like the US Steel Tower—the city's tallest structure—and Point State Park offers both greenery and historical attractions such as Fort Pitt Block House.

Atlanta, the capital and largest city of Georgia, is a sprawling metropolis characterized by its three urban skylines amidst rolling hills, pine forests, old oak trees, and magnolias. Established in 1837 as a railroad terminus, it has grown into the leader of the New South. Key attractions include CNN Center for media enthusiasts; World of Coca-Cola showcasing beverage history; and Georgia Aquarium housing the world's largest indoor aquatic exhibits.

Founded in 1610 by Spanish explorers, Santa Fe is one of America's oldest cities and a stunning example of preserved beauty. As the state capital, its building codes ensure new constructions adhere to Pueblo architectural styles, maintaining picturesque views throughout the city. Visitors can explore cultural landmarks like the Palace of Governors Museum—housed in America’s oldest public building—and marvel at over 20,000 artworks showcased at the New Mexico Museum of Art.

Mackinac Island, once a fur trading post, has evolved into a car-free haven on Lake Huron. Visitors can explore its historic charm through horse-drawn carriage rides along streets adorned with Victorian-era architecture housing cafes and romantic restaurants. Staying in cozy B&Bs or the luxurious Grand Hotel enhances the experience of this Midwest gem.

Nestled at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a picturesque resort town surrounded by stunning natural beauty. It attracts visitors with its abundant outdoor activities, including hiking along the famous Appalachian Trail. In winter, Ober Gatlinburg—Tennessee's only ski resort—becomes a bustling hub for skiing and snow-filled fun.

Grand Teton National Park, located in northwest Wyoming, boasts breathtaking landscapes of towering mountains, expansive valleys, and pristine alpine lakes. Named after its highest peak at 4,199 meters (13,775 feet), the park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts offering activities like hiking and rock climbing amidst verdant forests and glinting glaciers. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife watching as elk, bears, and moose thrive within this stunning natural environment.

Lake Tahoe, spanning California and Nevada, is North America's largest alpine lake formed over 2 million years ago. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains with crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic landscapes, it offers diverse recreational activities year-round. Winter brings skiing and snowboarding opportunities while summer invites hiking and water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy lakeside casinos, luxurious hotels, and ski resorts.

San Diego, located on California's coast near the Mexican border, is renowned for its natural harbor and vibrant blend of cultures. The city offers a laid-back atmosphere with year-round mild weather, making it an ideal destination to enjoy sun-soaked beaches and delicious seafood influenced by Mexican traditions. Visitors are drawn to attractions like Balboa Park, home to the famous San Diego Zoo alongside numerous museums and botanical gardens.

Cannon Beach, named after a cannon from a shipwreck, is among Oregon's most popular seaside resorts. Located 80 miles west of Portland along the state's 300-mile coastline, it has evolved from an artist community into a vibrant resort town featuring restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries. Its iconic feature is the towering 235-foot-high Haystack Rock—a monolithic formation that serves as both a striking landmark and nesting ground for seabirds.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, located 25 miles from a former ranch town, is an awe-inspiring network of caverns. Its main chamber, known as the Big Room, features a cathedral-like expanse with trails and remarkable formations like the largest stalagmite in existence. Visitors can descend into this subterranean marvel via either an elevator equivalent to the Empire State Building's height or a winding pathway.

Boston stands as one of the oldest cities in the United States with a rich historical legacy. Visitors can explore its role in the American Revolution by walking the Freedom Trail or visiting landmarks like Paul Revere's house. Beyond history, Boston thrives culturally with attractions such as Fenway Park and performances by the Boston Pops Orchestra. As New England’s largest city, it offers diverse cultural activities alongside fine dining experiences.

The Outer Banks, a series of barrier islands along North Carolina's coastline, attract vacationers escaping summer heat. The northern region is renowned for wild horses roaming its dunes. Central areas like Nags Head and Kitty Hawk on Bodie Island feature landmarks such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Roanoke Island to the west holds historical intrigue with its Lost Colony mystery from the 1580s. Further south lies Cape Hatteras National Seashore, known for its natural beauty and untamed landscapes.

Arches National Park, located in Utah's Canyon Country, boasts over 2,000 natural sandstone arches shaped by wind and water over millennia. Iconic formations include Landscape Arch, Delicate Arch, and Double Arches—each offering stunning photo opportunities. This unique park is a remarkable destination for exploration on foot or bike.

Charleston, a historic port city in the South, is renowned for its antebellum architecture and rich history. Its downtown sits on a peninsula between two rivers, shielded by surrounding islands. Key attractions include Fort Sumter—a pivotal Civil War landmark accessible via ferry—and the French Quarter with its Huguenot Church and art galleries. Visitors can immerse themselves in charm while exploring major sites through traditional carriage tours.

Yosemite National Park is a world-renowned destination for wilderness enthusiasts and hikers, offering numerous trails amidst breathtaking landscapes. Its dramatic scenery includes powerful waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and awe-inspiring granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. The park’s iconic features also include the majestic Bridalveil Fall, making it a must-visit location on many travelers' bucket lists.

Nashville, known as America’s Music City, attracts visitors worldwide with its vibrant live music scene. The iconic Honky Tonk Highway comes alive early each day with the sounds of guitars and cowboy boots setting an exciting atmosphere. Beyond music, travelers find a variety of activities to explore throughout this compact city where free city bikes make getting around convenient.

Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, serves as a vibrant seaside town and gateway to Acadia National Park. Known for its charming shops, restaurants, and historic attractions amidst stunning scenery along Frenchman Bay’s shores. Its popularity peaks during summer and fall when visitors flock to explore the surrounding wilderness.

San Antonio, located in South Central Texas, is one of the largest cities in the United States. Renowned for its rich history, it is famously home to the Alamo. The city also boasts a lively Riverwalk featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment along both sides of the San Antonio River at its downtown core.

Death Valley, located in the Mojave Desert and part of Death Valley National Park, is known as North America's driest and lowest point. Despite its harsh reputation, it offers diverse outdoor activities, historic sites like Scotty's Castle and Wild Rose charcoal kilns, along with ghost town ruins. Visitors can marvel at snowcapped mountains contrasting colorful sand dunes or enjoy scenic vistas such as Zabriskie Point.

Located in Central Florida, Orlando is renowned for its world-famous theme parks like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios. It offers a magical experience where dreams come to life through encounters with beloved storybook characters and live reenactments of iconic movie scenes. Visitors can enjoy thrilling roller coasters and mesmerizing dolphin performances, making it an ideal destination for unforgettable family vacations.

Savannah, Georgia's oldest city on the Atlantic coast, captivates visitors with its Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, and moss-draped oaks. The historic district offers a glimpse into 19th-century mansions and significant landmarks. For relaxation amidst nature after exploring history-rich sites, Forsyth Park provides serene treelined paths.

Philadelphia, often called Philly, is a major city in Southeastern Pennsylvania known for its historical significance as the birthplace of America. It was where the Declaration of Independence and US Constitution were signed in 1776. The city features iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell and offers cultural attractions such as art museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art with its famous "Rocky" steps.

Nestled in north-central Arizona, Sedona captivates visitors with its vibrant art scene and spiritual retreats. Its most iconic feature is the breathtaking red sandstone formations that provide a striking backdrop of reds and oranges to the town. These landscapes attract artists, spiritual seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Highlights include natural wonders like Airport Mesa and Cathedral Rock, offering incredible photographic opportunities.

Known as the "Windy City," Chicago is celebrated for its skyscrapers, sports teams, and distinctive culinary offerings like hot dogs and deep-dish pizza. As the third-largest city in the U.S., it sits on Lake Michigan in Northern Illinois' Midwest region. The city thrives as a financial and commercial hub while boasting attractions such as Millennium Park, Sears Tower (now Willis Tower), Navy Pier's entertainment options. Additionally, Chicago has rich musical roots spanning jazz to house music showcased across vibrant live venues.

Denali National Park, a monumental expanse in Alaska, is home to North America's tallest peak at 6,190 meters above sea level. Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali's snow-capped summit appears to pierce the sky. The park features snowy boreal forests, desolate tundra landscapes, jagged mountains and lakes that host wildlife like caribou, moose grizzly bears and wolves. It offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking untouched wilderness.

New Orleans stands out as one of the most unique cities in the USA, celebrated for its French Creole culture, cuisine, architecture, jazz music, and vibrant Mardi Gras festival. Located in Southeastern Louisiana as the state's largest city and a major port hub, it has faced challenges like Hurricane Katrina's devastating floods in 2005 but has largely recovered. Today it remains an iconic destination offering rich cultural experiences.

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is a breathtaking natural haven featuring majestic granite mountains, vibrant alpine lakes, and flourishing meadows during summer. It offers an array of trails for serene adventures amidst nature's beauty. The park’s wilderness provides a habitat for diverse wildlife including elk, moose, and black bears. Bear Lake stands out as a popular scenic destination where visitors can admire glacial valleys and towering mountaintops.

Seattle, the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region of the USA, is home to global giants like Boeing, Starbucks, and Amazon. Nicknamed "The Emerald City" for its lush scenery due to a rainy climate, it boasts a skyline filled with towering skyscrapers crowned by the iconic 600-foot-tall Space Needle built in 1962. Known for its seafood offerings at Pike Place Market and surrounded by picturesque pine forests.

Miami, located in Southeastern Florida along the Atlantic coast, is renowned for its Latin culture, lively nightlife, and status as a major port city hosting the world's largest number of passenger cruise ships. This vibrant destination attracts global tourists with its sunny beaches that cater to both families and partygoers. Across Biscayne Bay lies Miami Beach on a barrier island, famous for Art Deco architecture and glamorous South Beach.

Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is situated on the East Coast. This cosmopolitan city hosts a blend of diverse cultures and is renowned for its iconic landmarks such as the White House, Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial. These historic monuments are nestled within the scenic National Mall parkland.

Nestled on the U.S.-Canada border, Glacier National Park in Montana showcases breathtaking landscapes with two mountain ranges, over 130 sparkling lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Established in 1910 to protect its rich ecosystems and diverse wildlife, it offers a haven for grizzly bears and golden eagles. The park’s rugged beauty makes hiking along its scenic trails an unforgettable experience.

Los Angeles, the second largest city in the USA, is located in Southern California amidst Pacific coast mountains and valleys. Known as the entertainment capital of the world, it thrives on celebrity culture with attractions like Hollywood Boulevard's film star handprints and tours of Beverly Hills' celebrity homes. For a more relaxed vibe, Venice Beach offers a Bohemian atmosphere featuring Muscle Beach and an eclectic promenade showcasing unique street performers.

Nestled in Nevada's desert, Las Vegas thrives as a global entertainment hub due to its iconic casinos like Caesar's Palace, MGM Grand, and the Bellagio. Beyond gambling and extravagant performances by showgirls, it caters to diverse interests with attractions for all ages. The Strip features remarkable landmarks such as the Bellagio’s fountain shows, a replica Eiffel Tower, and an Egyptian pyramid.

Zion National Park, located near Springdale in southern Utah, showcases breathtaking rock formations and towering sandstone cliffs. Unlike other parks in the American Southwest where visitors view canyons from above, Zion offers a unique experience of walking on the canyon floor while gazing upward. The park is renowned for its desert landscapes featuring sandstone canyons, mesas, and high plateaus—making it an ideal destination for hiking, canyoning, and climbing.

San Francisco, located on a Northern California peninsula, is renowned for its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. The Golden Gate Bridge stands as the city's top attraction, offering breathtaking views to those who walk or bike across it. Visitors can also explore Chinatown's lively streets, savor seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf, visit Alcatraz Island prison with its storied history, and marvel at Lombard Street’s steep twists. This dynamic city ensures endless fascination.

Stretching south from Florida, the archipelago known as the Florida Keys consists of around 1,700 coral islands nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Connected to mainland by Overseas Highway, these islands offer a mix of untouched natural beauty and lively party scenes. Renowned for their sunny weather and tropical charm, they attract holidaymakers seeking relaxation or entertainment.

Established in 1872, Yellowstone holds the distinction of being the first national park globally. It is renowned for its geysers, particularly Old Faithful, which erupts reliably on schedule. The Grand Prismatic Spring captivates with its vibrant rainbow-like colors caused by bacteria thriving in cooler areas of this hot spring. Additionally, Yellowstone boasts a rich diversity of wildlife unmatched across most parts of the United States.

The Polynesian archipelago of Hawaii, consisting of hundreds of Pacific islands, is celebrated for its tropical climate, pristine beaches, and stunning natural scenery. Promoted as a premier destination since World War II's end, it attracts surfers globally while maintaining its allure as a vacation hotspot. Despite the influx of tourists over decades, indigenous Hawaiian culture remains vibrant through ceremonies, traditions, and folk music.

New York City stands as a vibrant mega city, renowned for its iconic landmarks like Central Park, the Empire State Building, Grand Central Station, and Times Square. Its fame is amplified by frequent appearances in Hollywood films that make its streets feel familiar to many. The city's five boroughs are equally celebrated alongside its rich cultural diversity—home to Korea Town, multiple Chinatowns, remnants of Little Italy and communities ranging from Jewish to African-American origins. This melting pot of cultures has transformed New York into a true global hub enriched by people from around the world.

Located in northern Arizona, the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors annually as a bucket-list destination. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its immense size and vibrant landscapes provide unmatched views. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas from viewpoints or experience it through helicopter rides and challenging hikes like the rim-to-rim trail—essentially prepared for its harsh desert climate.