Coast to coast, the United States has so many unique locations worth visiting. From East to West, we’ve identified more than 20 — some for their beauty, some for their history, and others for the pure wonder of how they came to be.
The West Coast
1) California boasts surf, sun, wine, and fun. When there, don’t miss this simple but breathtaking pick for pics, The Golden Gate Bridge. One of the Modern Wonders of the World, the Golden Gate Bridge spans from San Francisco to Marin County, California. It took more than four years to build the bridge that many called the “impossible bridge,” and in 1937, it was ready to receive traffic and tourists. You can drive across it or view it from either of the bridge’s lookout points for free. These lookout points are located at the North or South ends of the bridge.
Just a few more locations to visit on the West Coast
2) Deschutes National Forest – You can enjoy year-round mountain fun like hiking, biking, snowboarding, and more here in the Cascades of Central Oregon.
3) The Redwood Forest – You’ll find yourself in awe of some of the world’s tallest, oldest trees here along the coast of California.
4) Pike Place Market – One of the first farmer’s markets in Seattle, this giant open-air market boasts locally grown produce and artisan foods.
5) Heading East, the Red Rock Scenic Byway in Sedona, Arizona, is one of America’s most spectacular drives. Just a few hours south of the Grand Canyon along Highway 179, you’ll find yourself in awe of the rich, rust-colored view. If you’re into hiking, take every opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty by stopping along the byway route to hit the trails at Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Chapel of the Holy Cross.
6) Speaking of Arizona, visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim is a must. Open year-round, you will experience the quintessential Grand Canyon vacation at the South Rim. Here you will not only get picturesque views, but you’ll have access to highly-rated dining and lodging, plus the best park support by way of transportation, tours, and activities. Go here to start your grandest adventure yet.
The Midwest
7) The Continental Divide passes right through Grand County, Colorado. Dividing the continent in half, the divide extends from the Bering Strait and Strait Magellan. One of the most spectacular ways to experience it is in the Rockies. Whether you’re hiking the trail or just sightseeing, it’s a location you must experience.
8) As you make your way through the Midwest, don’t skip South Dakota. Badlands National Park is one of America’s most spectacular locations to visit. A 244,000-acre expanse of geologic deposits and mixed grassland, the Badlands boasts one of the world’s richest fossil beds. When in South Dakota, drive the extra 100 miles from the beautiful Custer State Park to see, hike, and fully experience Badlands National Park.
While in South Dakota, check out some of our nation’s most iconic monuments:
9) Mount Rushmore – Don’t miss this national treasure in South Dakota featuring the faces of four of America’s most influential presidents carved into rock.
10) Crazy Horse – While at Rushmore, be sure to snap some photos of this incomplete monument depicting the Lakota warrior Chief Crazy Horse.
11) Standing tall in Missouri, the St. Louis Arch is the world’s tallest arch, established to be a permanent public memorial to those who made possible the western territorial expansion of the United States. Dedicated to “the American people,” the Gateway to the West awaits your visit. Go here for visitor information and to purchase your tram ride to the top of the arch.
The South
12) Some say Texas is a country of its own. Given the size and grandeur of the state’s many natural features, it very well could be. One location to visit is in San Marcos. The San Marcos River flows from Aquarena Springs, and if you’re a water lover, it’s a must-visit location. Given the mild temperatures they experience in the region, you can enjoy kayaking, tubing, snorkeling, and swimming in the river year-round. Make it at least a day trip to enjoy the clear water and unique wildlife that make this Texas river so special.
Other locations to check out while in the Lone Star State
13) The Alamo – Where Texas battled for independence from Mexico, the Spanish mission offers a wealth of important history about Texas and our country.
14) Space Center Houston – It’s not just any museum but an immersive learning center for kids and grown-ups alike who love all things science and space exploration.
15) From Texas, jump next door to Louisiana, where the historic Bourbon Street stands ready to host you a roaring, rowdy, good time. A historic location established in the 1700s, Bourbon street’s iconic bars, restaurants, and shops provide a celebratory environment day and night. Their doors are literally open almost 24 hours a day, so head on over and come on in to make some New Orleans-style history of your own.
The East
Pack it up and head east for our next set of must-visit locations. First, a couple of short stops that way:
16) Nashville – It’s the city of country music and the many genres that followed. Take in a concert, hit up a honky-tonk, and don’t miss Music Row.
17) The White House – The official residence and office of the president of the United States citizens can tour the White House from 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM Tuesday through Saturday.
18) After your time at the capital, head north along the East Coast, where history, culture, and some of our top location picks await. First, Boston’s North End, where the back streets have a little-known secret shared by locals and food lovers alike. Pizzerias, cafes, bakeries, and all the pasta you can imagine are cooked up fresh just for you after a long day at Fenway Park or on a historical tour. Known for their Italian cuisine, the North End’s local restaurants offer some of the most delicious, fresh, homemade pastas and seafood you’ve ever tasted.
Here are our other location picks to visit in Massachusetts and beyond
19) The September 11th National Memorial Museum — Take time to remember the 2,977 people who were killed during the terrorist attacks of 9/11.
20) Acadia National Park – Take in the purple mountains and the Atlantic Ocean here along the coast of Maine.
Of course, of the fifty United States, there are hundreds more unique locations worth visiting. So we recommend using this shortlist to map out an adventure of a lifetime. For more information on sites to see in the U.S., head over to Roaming the USA.
Bio: M. Kelani is a wife, mom, nature lover, online shopper, and professional writer who is passionate about the power of the written word to help make the world a more beautiful place. Her published works focus on travel, consumer interests, women’s empowerment, and international development.