The United States of America is a massive and varied country that offers visitors a wide variety of attractions and activities.
From spending a weekend in the pleasant Napa and Sonoma Valleys of California or the Florida Keys to exploring adventurous destinations like the Grand Canyon or Yellowstone National Park, the United States has it all.
There’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy in the United States, from the bright lights of the Las Vegas Strip and Times Square to the peace and quiet of a cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains and the sights of the imposing wilderness, like caribou in Denali, Alaska.
Visiting the United States is a great opportunity to introduce your family to the rich cultural diversity of the world.
There is a wide variety of entertainment, dining, and other options in Las Vegas for both families and couples, regardless of whether you love water sports like swimming, fishing, or boating or would rather just attend a Broadway-style performance.
Top 25 tourist attractions in the USA
The following attractions in the United States should not be left off your “must-see” list. Take the kids on a trip to one of these top 25 American tourist destinations. Enjoy!
- Niagara Falls
- White House in Washington D.C.
- Yosemite National Park
- Grand Canyon
- Statue of Liberty
- Walt Disney World Resort
- Las Vegas Strip
- Golden Gate Bridge
- Times Square
- Yellowstone National Park
- Mount Rushmore National Memorial
- San Antonio River Walk
- Kennedy Space Center
- Florida Keys
- Denali National Park
- French Quarter in New Orleans
- Sedona Red Rock Country
- Navy Pier in Chicago
- Empire State Building
- The Hollywood Sign
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Waikiki
- Central Park
- Brooklyn Bridge
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, which straddles the international boundary between Canada and the United States, is a major tourist attraction in both countries, including the USA and Canada. These gigantic waterfalls are where water from Lake Erie pours into Lake Ontario, and they are famous for the sheer volume of water that is continually cascading over the sheer drop.
There are three distinct drops that make up Niagara Falls: There are the 187-foot-tall Horseshoe Falls, the 89-foot-tall American Falls, and the 78-foot-tall Bridal Veil Falls, both of which are on the American side of the river.
There are beautiful vistas on both sides of the river, but if you don’t mind crossing into Canada, you should definitely check out the Canadian side.
Most tourists go to Niagara Falls in the summer when the weather is nice, the flowers are blooming, and it’s easier to get around. The snowy coastlines and iced-over fences, street signs, and trees make up a picturesque winter scene. This place is a winter paradise for sure.
White House in Washington D.C.
Your visit to Washington, DC, wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the White House, the president’s official residence, which is also one of the most iconic attractions in the USA. Every president besides George Washington has called this ancient house their home. On the north side of the White House lies Lafayette Park; beyond it a pedestrian-only zone packed with colorful characters and picture-perfect backdrops.
James Hoban had it constructed in 1792, and it was reconstructed in 1818 after being destroyed by British soldiers in 1814. Free tours of the stunning White House are available with advance notice of at least three weeks. There are always stringent security measures in place to protect the building, but some parts of it are open to the public, and you can visit this place by purchasing a tour ticket.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, one of the greatest attractions to visit in the USA and California, especially for nature enthusiasts, is also one of the most popular parks in the United States.
You can only get a true sense of the scale of well-known landmarks like Yosemite National Park’s El Capitan and Half Dome by visiting them in person. Massive waterfalls are another attraction, plunging from high cliffs due to mountain snowfall or unexpected summer rainstorms.
Hiking, climbing, strolling, and horseback riding are just some of the adventurous things you can do at Yosemite National Park. Yosemite’s hiking routes provide access to the park’s most breathtaking vistas while also providing an alternative to the park’s busier viewpoint spots.
Those who would rather relax than hike may still appreciate Yosemite’s breathtaking scenery while enjoying a leisurely picnic. Driving tours of the park’s most notable sites are also available. There are just a few lodges and a handful of excellent campsites inside the park’s boundaries. More choices await you beyond the gates.
Grand Canyon
This breathtaking natural wonder is a popular attraction for tourists in the USA. The Grand Canyon is a huge canyon in Arizona whose cliffs and ledges were hewn out by the Colorado River. From the canyon’s edge, sightseers may observe the canyon bottom a mile below them and gaze out over the endless ridges and rocks that stretch into the far reaches.
Most visitors to Grand Canyon National Park head straight for the South Rim, which can be reached from Las Vegas in approximately four and a half hours. A sizable tourist center, bus service along the Rim during peak seasons and a canyon boardwalk with several vantage spots can all be found here. The Bright Angel Trail, among other great walks, begins here.
The Skywalk, a transparent walkway that extends out over the brink of the Grand Canyon, is another well-liked sight. It may be found on the West Rim, specifically near Eagle Point. It takes around four hours to travel here from the South Rim, but you can get to Las Vegas in under two and a half. This region is convenient for day trips from Las Vegas.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is the most recognizable emblem of the United States and the biggest statue in the world, which makes it one of the main attractions in the USA. Visitors may see the monument from afar, especially from Battery Park, or they can board a ferry to get up close to the statue itself.
People who want to visit the statue can purchase one of three types of tickets: grounds tickets, pedestal tickets, or crown tickets. Seeing both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island in one trip is a great choice, and several tours offer this.
Walt Disney World Resort
It stands to reason that the happiest spot on Earth would also be a popular tourist destination. This place is surely the Disney World Resort which is one of the USA’s top attractions.
Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is a magical place with four theme parks, two water parks, many restaurants, and resorts with cutting-edge amenities that guests of all ages may enjoy. Nearly 50 million guests go to the resort each year, many of them from overseas, to experience the enchantment of Disney.
Simply taking a stroll through any park, hotel, or commercial district will expose you to upbeat music and friendly actors. Mickey Mouse and other well-known cartoon characters, as well as royalty, may make an appearance.
The Magic Kingdom, based on the classic fairy tale, features six “lands” centered on the iconic Cinderella’s Castle and is the most visited area of Disney World. Guests may ride the Monorail between the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, and it also serves as a connection to three of the park’s main hotels.
Las Vegas Strip
The Strip in Las Vegas is like an adult theme park, and walking down it is like being transported to another world. This well-known thoroughfare is lined by replicas of iconic international landmarks including the New York skyline, the Eiffel Tower, and the canals of Venice. This place is surely one of the best attractions in all of the USA.
At one end is the pyramid-shaped Luxor Hotel, where you may find all sorts of curiosities and entertainment, including an erupting volcano and dancing fountains. In Las Vegas, many of the top attractions are really free to the public, including this one which is also one of the best attractions in the USA.
The nonstop performance schedule in Las Vegas is a major draw for tourists. Many prominent performers decide to make Las Vegas their permanent home and play there frequently. Every night, you may catch one of the many special performances put on by local artists.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge, which spans San Francisco Bay and connects the city to Marin County, has been a California symbol since its construction in the 1930s. The orangey-red tint of the bridge provides a striking visual contrast to the lake and gives the city a distinctive character. This iconic structure is, without a doubt, one of the top attractions in the USA.
When covered in fog, with only the tops of the major towers visible, it gives a striking appearance. The length of the bridge, which is included in S.R. 1, is close to two miles. Conzelman Road at Golden Gate National Recreation Area is a great place to go on a clear day.
Times Square
Times Square is a major business hub and residential district in New York City’s Midtown Manhattan, which is visited by about 39 million people annually.
The corner of Broadway and Seventh Avenue is where you’ll find it. Also included is anything between W. 42nd and W. 47th Streets. It is a popular travel destination and a top tourist attraction in the United States.
The renowned ball drop on New Year’s Eve is only one of the many events and shows hosted there annually, making it a top destination for tourists in the United States and one of its iconic places.
Yellowstone National Park
Millions of visitors visit Yellowstone every year to see its unique blend of animals, nature, and more, making it one of the most well-known and visited national parks in the USA.
It is an absolute must-see if you are ever in the United States, as it is one of the best attractions in the USA.
One of the ideal places for a family vacation, it has the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser and sites for camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and even snowmobile in the winter.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a must-see if you’re ever in South Dakota, as it is one of the United States’ top attractions. George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt’s imposing features rise over the treetops.
John Gutzon de la Mothe Borglum was the only creator of this monumental work, and his son Lincoln completed it after his passing. The massive stone skulls were carved starting in 1927 and took several years to finish in 1941.
In the warmer months, visitors flock to the national memorial. If you want to beat the crowds, getting there early is your best bet.
San Antonio River Walk
Historic buildings, a lively nightlife, and excellent food and shopping can all be found in downtown San Antonio. The River Walk, in the center of downtown San Antonio, has something for everyone. It’s no wonder that it is considered one of the best attractions in the USA.
The urban canal trail is 15 miles long and features stunning scenery, landmark hotels and museums, and the greatest shopping and restaurants in the city.
The River Walk is not only one of the greatest treasures of San Antonio and one of the most visited places in Texas, but it is also the biggest urban environment in the United States.
The peaceful paths run along the river and beneath the busy streets. Tourists have the option of taking a walking tour or a ride on a boat along the river.
San Antonio Missions and Mission Reach, located farther down the river, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sheds light on the city’s past. The River Walk plays host to several cultural events for San Antonians and visitors alike throughout the year.
Kennedy Space Center
Visit the Kennedy Space Center if you’ve ever wanted to feel what it’s like to be an astronaut. The NASA spaceships and the exploration of space provide a fascinating and informative display. One of the best things to do in Florida and one of the top attractions in the USA is this attraction which draws visitors of all ages.
You could assume that your trip here would be short, that you’ll only stop by to look at some spacecraft and then go. Many visitors are taken aback by how involved they become throughout their time at the center and how long they end up staying there.
The genuine Space Shuttle Atlantis, the Heroes and Legends display, the Journey to Mars exposition, and many more attractions await visitors at this place.
Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are perfect for a family getaway because of the pleasant year-round temperature, clear blue skies, and beautiful beaches.
It’s one of the top family vacation spots and attractions in the United States because of its tropical setting and abundance of fun activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and world-class fishing.
If you enjoy being on the water, then you will love canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. In addition, this is a good illustration of the kinds of must-visit locations you may expect to find throughout the United States.
Denali National Park
For those who are interested in nature, Denali National Park is one of the best places to visit in Alaska, which is also one of the USA’s top attractions.
Wilderness and being close to nature in its purest form are the park’s claim to fame. Mt. McKinley, often known as Denali, stands as North America’s tallest peak and may be found here.
Nearly half a million visitors go there year for winter sports like dog sledding, skiing, and snowmobiling, as well as summer activities like mountain climbing, hiking, and wildlife watching.
French Quarter in New Orleans
The most well-known and historically significant district in all of New Orleans is thriving with modern-day art, music, and Creole cuisine. The French Quarter, often known as the “Vieux Carre,” captures the soul of New Orleans and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike as it is one of the best attractions in the USA.
There is always something new to find in New Orleans, from the haunting Jackson Square to the raucous bars on Bourbon Street. Bourbon Street is the epicenter of nightlife in New Orleans, famous for its Hurricane cocktails and street celebrations. The French Quarter’s adult-oriented attractions are a big draw for visitors from throughout the world.
You may also find some of the city’s best restaurants in this area. Stop at Antione’s, Galatoire’s, or Arnaud’s for some classic and much-loved New Orleans cuisine. Don’t leave New Orleans without trying some of Café du Monde’s famous beignets!
Sedona Red Rock Country
This little community is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Arizona, yet it’s only a two-hour trip from Phoenix. This natural wonder is also one of the top attractions in the USA.
Its stunning location amid the red rocks makes it a wonderful vacation spot or day trip from Phoenix. If you want to see and do everything in Sedona, you need to stay there for at least a couple of nights. There are several high-quality dining options in town, in addition to spas and five-star hotels.
Sedona boasts great hiking, mountain biking, and camping, and its eccentric atmosphere makes for a pleasant vacation for the whole family. Sedona attracts visitors all through the year, but spring is when the trees blossom and the odd desert rain storm hits.
Navy Pier in Chicago
The Navy Pier is the hub of Chicago activity, with events, attractions, restaurants, shops, and more open to visitors and locals alike. Fireworks, performances by local musicians and actors, and daily cruises keep the pier busy throughout the summer. Views of the lake may be enjoyed inside a garden that spans a whole acre.
Offshore, the biggest rooftop restaurant in the United States can be found on the Navy Pier. Dine on gourmet fare and hand-crafted sip beverages while gazing at Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Visitors of all ages may enjoy the 1920s-style carousel and the thrill of the Ferris wheel at Pier Park.
Visitors to an art gallery who have seen previous shows are likely to return for more. From sports pubs to tropical cocktail lounges, there is a wide variety of dining and drinking establishments to suit every taste. Navy Pier is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States and a must-see for any visitor to Chicago due to the wide variety of things to do and see there.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a 102-story structure with a roof height of 1,250 feet (371.1 meters), honoring the state of New York. For forty years, until the North Tower of the First World Trade Center was constructed, it held the title of the tallest structure in the world.
It is the 48th-highest building in the world and the ninth-tallest in the United States. In addition to being identified as one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers, this structure was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986, making it one of the most iconic attractions in the USA.
The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is another top attraction in the United States which is also one of its most iconic landmarks. The Hollywood Sign, located atop Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills, overlooked the city of Hollywood and was originally built to promote the name of a segregated housing complex.
After it became well-known due to Los Angeles’s growing film industry, the sign was retained in place. In white letters 45 feet (14 meters) in height, the word “Hollywood” is spelled out. Although getting near the sign for photos is encouraged, climbing on it is not permitted, and security is there to prevent any trespassing.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
More than 2,600 terrazzo and brass stars decorate the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Hollywood, California. The names of famous people whose works have been critically acclaimed have been engraved on these stars. Each star has five points, one for every factor used to choose the winners.
Film, television, recorded music, radio, and concerts are all examples of these types of entertainment. Below the performer’s name on each star is a symbol representing their respective category. There are around twenty additions to the Walk of Fame annually. This street is just one of the best attractions in the United States that represent its culture and the important role that media plays in it.
Central Park
You just simply can’t talk about the best attractions in the United States and not mention Central Park of New York. New York’s Central Park serves as its front yard. This 843-acre green space in the heart of Manhattan is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations and most valuable assets. Numerous film and T.V. productions have used this location throughout the years.
Strawberry Fields, Belvedere Castle, and the Central Park Zoo are just a few of the famous landmarks that call this park home. The park also features beautiful hills, meadows, playgrounds, skating rinks, ball fields, and more. Please note that this park is massive. The easiest way to see everything the park has to offer is to pick up a map at the visitor center, then go off on foot or join a guided tour.
Waikiki
Waikiki has been a magnet for visitors for well over a century since it features arguably the world’s most well-known beach. This place combines elements of a tropical paradise with a contemporary metropolis.
You’ll feel like you’re in the tropics lounging on this lovely length of the beach with palm trees swaying in the wind, but the high-rise buildings and bustling roadway behind you will keep you aware that you’re still close to civilization. Travelers of all ages and nationalities flock to this compact region of Oahu for a variety of tourist activities that this place provides, making it one of the best attractions in the USA.
Brooklyn Bridge
Before its renaming by the city government in 1915, it was commonly known as the East River Bridge and the New York and Brooklyn Bridge. The span between Manhattan and Brooklyn, known as the Brooklyn Bridge, is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
It crosses the East River at an impressive 1,595.5 ft (486 m) in length and is the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge. Above the automobile lanes, the bridge features a spacious promenade for people. This famous structure is one of the most iconic attractions in the USA that you have probably seen in a lot of movies.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
You may find the Great Smoky Mountains straddling the state line between Tennessee and North Carolina. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or simply the Smokies, is the most visited national park in the United States and is one of the USA’s top attractions as well.
The Smoky Mountains got their name from the persistent mist that hangs in the area. The Great Smoky Mountains are a popular tourist destination because of its stunning scenery, hiking routes, waterfalls, fishing locations, and picnic areas.
