From snowcapped mountains and roaring rivers to sandy beaches and ocean cliffsides, the United States is home to some of the most magnificent destinations. Of course, there’s a reason it’s known as “America the Beautiful!” There are so many beautiful places in the USA that it could take a lifetime to discover them.
In 1895, Katherine Lee Bates penned the anthem “America the Beautiful” to describe this country’s awe-inspiring, unforgettable beauty. Her words, “spacious skies, amber waves of grain, and purple mountain majesties,” say it all. The United States’ diverse, natural beauty is unparalleled.
Bates’ words remain true today as the mountains, oceans, forests, and prairies remain mostly unchanged. Some of the country’s greatest natural treasures are designated national parks and protected by the National Park Service. These gorgeous lands will forever be open to the public and protected to ensure the world’s future citizens can enjoy them as well.
The most beautiful places in the US are easily reached by plane, train, or automobile, whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or cross-country road trip. It’s not difficult to hop in the car and set off to some breathtaking places! Camp, hike, bike, or simply jump out of the car and marvel at all America offers.
Maroon Bells, Colorado
Aspen, Colorado is home to the stunning and gorgeous Maroon Bells, which earn their name from the majestic appearance cast by two peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
Beneath that grand sight, you’ll be able to enjoy the crystal clear Maroon Lake, which is surrounded by lush fields full of colorful, vibrant wildflowers.
The Maroon Bells are easily in the top few most photographed attractions in the United States, and it’s easy to see why.
Everywhere you turn, you’ll feel like you’re in a postcard. It’s no wonder that this is one of the most beautiful places in the US.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking paradise for those who love the outdoors.
Spanning almost 3,500 square miles, this park is a trove of steep canyons, incredible mountains, gorgeous waterfalls, and fascinating geysers.
It is also populated with teeming wildlife, such as elk, grizzly bears, and buffalo.
On top of that, it is home to the rainbow-sheened Grand Prismatic Spring, which is deeper than 10 stories and the third largest spring on the planet.
Plus, despite its pull of over 4 million tourists on an annual basis, it’s such a large place that you’ll rarely run into anyone else.
So not only is it easily one of the most beautiful places in the US, but it’s also a great spot for quiet enjoyment.
Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah
Monument Valley is a minimalist attraction located along the border of Utah and Arizona.
In spite of its simplicity, this red-sand desert may just be one of the most beautiful places you will ever see!
A 17-mile Valley Drive leads into the area, and you can spot multiple sandstone buttes that make for amazing pictures.
This valley will make you feel like you are part of an Old Western movie, set in the Wild, Wild West.
John Ford’s Point is a great way to look over the scenery, allowing you to feast your eyes on the Mittens buttes.
Watkins Glen State Park, New York
The Watkins Glen State Park is located in upstate New York, within the Finger Lakes area, and it is named after the nearest town.
It may be relatively small compared to many more famous parks at 778 acres, but it is home to a gorge that holds a grand total of 19 gorgeous waterfalls.
In addition, this park contains the Rainbow Bridge and Falls, which appear absolutely fantastical, as though ripped right out of a riveting fantasy tale.
There are also plenty of places to set up camp if desired.
Niagara Falls, New York
New York is home to many amazing attractions, but Niagara Falls is arguably one of those that everyone will tell you not to miss.
It’s right on the border between the USA and Canada, and it’s a must-see attraction, for sure.
These falls earn over 30 million visitors on an annual basis, and it’s no surprise!
When you see all that water – six million cubic feet of it in total! – plummeting downwards at each minute of every day, you’ll be in awe, too.
Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake is an arresting body of magnificent blue water that rests peacefully within Mount Mazama.
Spanning 53 square kilometers and 2000 feet deep, this incredible caldera was left behind after an explosion more than 7 millennia ago.
It is the deepest of all similar lakes in all of the USA.
Today, the lake provides awe-inspiring reflections of its surroundings, including the pristine, white cliffs topped with snow that flank it.
You can go scuba diving in its enticing, crystal clear depths, or simply enjoy the view.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a highway, which may surprise you, as most roads can’t be considered beautiful places.
But this highway spans 469 miles in length, over multiple countries throughout North Carolina and Virginia, and offers some of the most spectacular views in the country.
Driving down this highway will allow you to take in the stunning Appalachian mountains, including multiple valleys and peaks such as the Peaks of Otter and the famous Roanoke Mountain.
If you like, you can even get off the road and go down a hiking trail of the Great Smokey Mountains National Park or the Shenandoah National Park.
Death Valley National Park, California
You wouldn’t think that a basin called “Death Valley” would be one of the most beautiful places in the US.
After all, it is located below sea level, and it is easily the hottest and driest spot in all of America.
However, it is also home to Zabriskie Point, which is an incredible peak that provides an optimal viewing location to watch the sunset.
In addition, contrary to its name, Death Valley actually teems with life in many of its seasons.
Wildflowers sprout gorgeously after storms, snow frosts cliff tops in the winter, and small oases provide life.
It’s a surprisingly prepossessing place for one so morbidly named!
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Antelope Canyon, known also as Corkscrew Canyon, is almost surreal in its beauty.
Located in Navajo territory very close by to Lake Powell, not too much hiking is required to reach this spot, which many consider the most beautiful and majestic canyon in America.
Sandstone walls and arches make up the canyon, glowing in vibrant hues of orange, red, and even pink under the streaming sunlight.
The wavy rock formations provide an otherworldly aesthetic that is sure to make you gasp in awe.
It’s no wonder that this is the state’s most photographed attraction; it’s one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see!
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is an old city that is home to multiple fascinating sites.
Its streets are paved with cobblestones and flanked by old buildings like museums and churches that are simply stuffed with history.
Downtown, you’ll find one of the biggest National Historic Landmark districts in the US, which also connect to the riverfront and the coast.
If there are particular areas you would like to visit, look no further than Forsyth Park, built in the 1840s and fitted with a stupendous fountain, romantic benches, and plenty of iconic oaks covered in moss for an even more calming aesthetic.
Up for something more spooky? Take a trip to the Bonaventure Cemetery!
The Wave, Arizona/Utah
Arizona is full of amazing sandstone rock formations, and one that easily ranks among beautiful places is the Wave.
Located in the Coyote Bluffs, found in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness bordering Utah, these rocks fall on Navajo territory and can be tricky to get to due to rough terrain.
If you do brave out the hard trails, you’ll be privy to the marvelous formations of sandstone forged way back in the Jurassic period.
It’s a rather exclusive trip, too – just 20 individuals are granted permission to travel to this scenic spot every day. If you’re lucky, you’ll be among them!
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
The Grand Teton National Park may just be home to the most beautiful mountain that the United States has to offer!
Located not far from Yellowstone in Wyoming, this park covers a whopping 310,000 acres of land and is named after the superb Teton mountain range, which is practically ancient, with areas reaching 9 million years of age.
Countless hiking trails allow you to explore this national park in all its glory.
Appreciate nature through unique wildlife, some of which is prehistoric, and gaze in awe and wonder over clear bodies of water, formed by glaciers over the years.
Turnip Rock, Michigan
Turnip Rock isn’t exactly the most famous of attractions in the United States, but that’s due to lack of knowledge, not lack of magnificence.
It’s a very small island that you can spot from Lake Huron’s shorelines in Port Austin, Michigan.
This island is appropriately named due to its slim lower portion that extends out of the water, gradually becoming thicker and wider as it rises into the sky – resembling the shape of a turnip!
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
It may not be the typical idea of the most beautiful places, but it is the only city in all of America to be named a UNESCO World Heritage city.
Its rich cultural and colonial background overflows with intrigue.
Once the US capital, this city hosts famous must-see spots such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, and more.
Of course, Philadelphia is also renowned for its delicious Philly cheese steaks, and there’s even more scrumptious food to be found in its markets.
This is also one of the best vacation destinations for those on a budget!
Multnomah Falls, Oregon
Many people would consider Multnomah Falls as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the nation.
It is part of the Columbia River Gorge in Portland and is just one of 50 alluring falls in the collection – but it stands out for good reason.
Reaching 611 feet in height, which makes it the tallest waterfall in the state, Multnomah Falls is double tiered and cascades beautifully down in front between two hiking trails.
You can watch it from the convenient viewing platform or go on a hike above it across a connecting bridge.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
Badlands National Park located in South Dakota may sound foreboding, but in reality, it’s one of the most beautiful places in the US.
It is famous for holding an extremely rich and diverse fossil bed that is definitely one of the best that earth has to offer.
On top of that, Badlands National Park is packed with incredible rock formations that look stunning at all times of the day with their differently shaded stripes.
There are also grasslands if you’re more for wildlife, where you can spot all the prairie dogs herding sheep for a calm, serene experience.
Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai looks like a place right out of a fantasy book. It is an island paradise that is the oldest of all habited Hawaiian islands.
It home to such beautiful wonders as the 6,175-acre Nā Pali Coast State Park, which is packed with hiking trails, emerald green mountains, and stunning views, and the 173-foot high Wailua Falls.
Along the Nā Pali coast, you will also find the cascading, remote Honopu Beach, Hawaii, which is easily the most attractive of all beaches in the US.
Willow City Bluebonnets, Texas
If you love wildflowers, head down to Texas Hill Country to feast your eyes upon the delightful expanses of bright Bluebonnets along Willow City Loop in Gillespie County.
They bloom in full force every April, and you can walk along a designated Bluebonnet trail to truly get the most out of this special floral occurrence.
Even the drive to the location can be incredibly scenic when you go at the right time.
It’s a lovely, laid-back type of trip that you can take if you’re looking for some relaxation.
White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
This incredibly unique location can be found in the north of the Chihuahuan Desert.
The White Sands National Monument consists of a reaching, widespread expanse of white gypsum crystal sand dunes, backdropped by a picturesque blue sky.
Though the sight of white sand as far as the eye can see isn’t the most exciting trip for some, this tranquil environment is so individual and one-of-a-kind that it is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.
Bask in the calm peace, feel the soft, warm sand beneath your toes, and marvel at the vastness of this monument.
Glacier National Park, Montana
The Glacier National Park located in Montana provides some of the most incredible views that you’ll be privy to in America.
It sits neatly on the border between Canada and the US, and it is exceedingly large in size, spanning more than 1 million acres in total.
This national park has no shortage of amazing things to see.
It is home to portions of mountain ranges as well as over a hundred named lakes, and it also serves as a habitat for hundreds of animal species and thousands of plant species.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe is a freshwater lake that may just be the most famous of its kind in the country.
It is an alpine body of water located in the mountain range of Sierra Nevada. It is so transparently clear that you can see right down to its 70-foot depths!
There’s an air of regality about the lake – likely due to its age.
It is first believed to have formed during the ice ages, and most of its modern appearance has been around for two million years.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
There are plenty of reasons to visit the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which sits on the Tennessee and North Carolina border.
It is packed with hiking routes ripe with emerald greenery, waterfalls and bodies of water, and pretty wildflowers ready for photos.
Plus, there are many great stops along the way, such as Clingmans Dome, which contains an observation tower resting on top of the area’s highest peak for breathtaking views.
The Palouse, Idaho/Oregon/Washington
The Palouse is so large that it covers three states, and it was all formed naturally.
Appearing as rolling hills made from loess, which is a kind of sediment that forms from dust and silt that is blown by the wind over thousands and thousands of years.
In spring, barley and wheat are grown throughout this prairie, creating a whimsical and fantastical appearance of bright green.
It’s a great vacation spot for those seeking a little peace of mind and relaxation.
The Golden Gate Bridge, California
It may be man-made, but there’s a reason that the Golden Gate Bridge is such an iconic landmark.
Towering over the world at almost 750 feet tall and connecting land across the Golden Gate strait with a 4,200 feet length, it is one of the Wonders of the Modern world and is constantly touched up by a staff of 38 painters who maintain its impressive color.
It’s safe to say that this bridge is imposing, but its behemoth size is just one of its attractions.
It is an absolute marvel of engineering and is truly an awe to behold.
Guided bike tours and cruises allow for up-close-and-personal glimpses of this monumental structure, and of course, you can simply drive across it!
Haleakala National Park, Hawaii
There’s no shortage of beautiful places in Hawaii, and the Haleakala National Park is one of them.
It is situated on Maui, an island within the state, and its name literally translates to “House of the Sun”.
The park can easily be divided into two different types of trips. The first, and more renowned, is the Haleakala Volcano’s summit.
This dormant volcano is intimidating in its size, and an arduous upwards climb will lead you to its peak, where you can enjoy a staggering view, or rest in the observatory or visitor’s center.
The second portion of the park is the Kipahulu coast, which makes for a perfect beach getaway.
Mendenhall Glacier Caves, Alaska
The Mendenhall Glacier Caves take a while to get to, but they are incredibly rewarding and very much worth the trip through 12 miles of caverns.
The overhead ceilings are tinted a glowing, luminescent blue thanks to the ice and the reflection from the water beneath. It’s something that has to be seen to be believed.
Unfortunately, due to climate change, these caves and the surrounding ice of its preceding caverns are beginning to melt.
As such, it’s the kind of trip that you’ll want to make sooner rather than later, before one of the most beautiful places in the US is lost to the world.
Carlsbad Cavern, New Mexico
In the Chihuahuan Desert lie more than 100 limestone caves, and one of them is none other than the Carlsbad Cavern.
Spikes hang from the ceiling in droves and clusters, and its winding rocky walls are perfect for spelunkers and adventurers.
The way you choose to go is up to you. You can go in through the beautiful, conventional entrance, or you can begin 750 feet underground.
Big Sur, California
If you’re a sucker for golden stretches of sand, basking sunsets and sunrises tinged orange and vermillion, and deep azure waters perfect for swimming, the Big Sur is a great place to go.
This coastal area is full of charming spots to explore and enjoy, ranging from the graceful architectural magnitude of the Bixby Bridge to the enchanting, picturesque McWay Falls.
There’s also the stunning, quaint Pfeiffer Beach, which is lesser known but no less delightful with soft sand and attractive rock formations to see.
Thor’s Well, Oregon
Thor’s Well is located in Yachats, a small, remote town, and is situated very close to the popular Cape Perpetua.
Why is it one of the most beautiful places in the US?
Well, it has a hint of mystery to it due to its optical illusion.
Essentially, if you look straight into it, it appears to be bottomless, though it is actually quite shallow at just 20 feet in depth.
At high tide, Thor’s Well becomes more dangerous, but also all the more breathtaking.
You can easily and safely catch a glimpse of it in action through a viewing platform, but we recommend you wear water-resistant clothing!
While you’re there, you can also enjoy the coastal elegance of Cape Perpetua itself.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places in California.
It spans 748,436 acres and contains plenty of disarming visions, ranging from green groves of imposing sequoias, rushing streams flowing from cascading waterfalls, cliffs shining with granite, and countless mountains stretching on the horizon.
There’s much to see in the area, including the glacial Yosemite Valley which is surrounded by viridescent pines.
It sinks up to 3,500 feet deep and measures 7.5 miles long. You can also spot Yosemite Falls nearby.
Arches National Park, Utah
The Arches National Park looks like a scene out of a movie.
Erosion from millions and millions of years has led to the creation of more than 2,000 arches, each fashioned naturally from sandstone.
It is worth noting that environmental change has caused 43 of these arches to fall to time, which means officials warn against getting too close.
Still, the sight of these bright, orange structures is well worth the extra caution, and you’ll want to plan your trip soon to catch as many of them as possible in full glory.
Angel Oak, South Carolina
This is one of those beautiful places that is designated a must-visit location because of one single, incredible centerpiece: the Angel Oak.
It is a magnificent, grand oak tree aged between 400 and 500 years, and its thick, twisted branches and opulent leaves extend outwards to cover over 17,200 square feet!
The Angel Oak is located in Johns Island near Charleston in South Carolina – which is, notably, also a fantastic tourist destination.
It’s relaxing, full of beaches, packed with historical sites, and has an enjoyable mild climate.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park covers 49,075 acres of land and is often overlooked, but it’s a must-see location with plenty of gorgeous features.
Teeming with rare wildlife of all kinds, the park has its share of coastline shores and contains a wealth of historical significance thanks to Native American inhabitance.
While you’re here, you can make the arduous hike up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain and receive the reward of a picturesque scene that mixes the stunning seaboard with rugged, rocky terrain.
Monument Rocks, Kansas
Known also by the name “Chalk Pyramids”, the Monument Rocks are formations of chalk.
These pale, craggy formations rise 70 feet into the air, and it is believed that they were formed in ancient times – nearly 80 million years in the past.
The Monument Rocks were the very first National Natural Landmark in all of the United States.
As such, if you’re a fan of visiting the most beautiful places, these rocks have to top your list.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
The Big Bend National Park in Rio Grande is an absolute wonder of untamed wildlife, spanning over much of the Chihuahuan Desert and all of the Chisos mountains.
Partially drawing near to the border of Mexico, this national park has so many different experiences to offer.
You can go on a road trip down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, relax in the Langford Hot Springs, view the Sam Nail Ranch’s broken-down husk, and enjoy sights of limestone formations across the Rio Grande.
New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is yet another gorgeous historical city that is full of heritage and culture.
Bask in delicious soul foods, sweet pastries, and suave, smooth blues and jazz.
Better yet, snoop around trinket stores and be fascinated with the charming but dark superstitious paraphernalia, and indulge.
You can also take a trip down Bourbon Street – and the rest of New Orleans’ incredible French Quarter.
It’s one of the kinds of beautiful places that will charm and entice you with its ancient architecture, rich teeming courtyards, and fascinating background.
Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
The Dry Tortugas National Park awaits in the Gulf of Mexico, less than 70 miles west to Florida’s famous Key West.
The park contains seven islands, with the main one holding the 19th century-built Fort Jefferson.
Throughout all the islands, you can scuba dive and snorkel (or just swim) around the deep blue waters.
As you go, you’ll be treated to many types of sea life and nearly growing coral reefs.
Do note that you can only get to this park via seaplane or boat!
Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington
These farmlands are must-sees in the spring – namely in April, which is the absolute best time to take a trip to this Pacific Northwest locale.
That’s when all the bright, vibrant tulips are in full bloom, and when you can enjoy the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.
If you visit at the right time, you’ll get to see not just tulips in all sorts of pretty, warm colors, but also countless other flowers that add to the gorgeousness of the fields.
During the festival, you can taste wine, enjoy strolling through gardens, sample barbecues, and feast your eyes on art exhibits.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
The Bryce Canyon National Park’s name is rather deceiving.
Instead of containing a canyon, what it does have are stone pinnacles that were formed naturally over time due to erosion from the stream and weathering during winter’s frost.
Multiple points throughout this park offer a stupendous view, but your best bet is Bryce Point in the southern region.
From here, you’ll get prime viewing of all the amazing stone formations, known as hoodoos, scattered about the area.
Oneonta Gorge, Oregon
If you like your nature experiences to boast only the best greenery and fauna that the world has to offer, then look no further than Oneonta Gorge.
The trail may be short at just 2.7 miles through and around this gorge, but that only makes it all the more enticing for first-time hikers – or those who just want a less tiring trip.
Lush woodland fauna combines strikingly with aquatic greens in Oneonta Gorge, making it look like you leaped into a storybook.
It’s the perfect shortstop that’s impossible to forget.
Hamilton Pool, Texas
Enjoy swimming holes? Then Hamilton Pool, one of the most beautiful places in the US for such a sport, is for you.
It first came into being when an underground river’s dome caved in, and now, it waits for swimmers and divers behind a bit of forest.
This pool has a refreshing waterfall that still pours over into it from the leftover overhang, and within the pool, you can spot greenery all the way down to its crystal clear depths.
You’ll feel like you’ve been born anew after just one revitalizing dip in Hamilton Pool!
Ladew Topiary Gardens, Maryland
The Ladew Topiary Gardens are, believe it or not, completely non-profit.
They feature expertly carved and crafted hedges, topiary, trees, and well-kept expanses of green garden space.
They’re open for visitors between April and October.
These gardens date back to the 1930s, originally set up by the fox-hunting Harvey S. Ladew.
This is why lots of topiaries showcase animal figures, particularly those related to hunting such as foxes, dogs, horses, and even their riders.
