15 U.S. Travel Destinations Every American Must See
As much as many Americans love visiting other countries for their vacations, the United States brims with unique travel destinations and experiences waiting to be discovered.
How many of these classic American destinations have you been to?
1: Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is located in New York and attracts more than 8 million visitors a year. The national park holds 20% of the world’s fresh water and offers tourists a range of activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
2: The Statue of Liberty
Located on the East Coast, the Statue of Liberty symbolizes friendship between France and the United States. With over 3 million visitors in 2022, guests can climb up to the crown, visit the pedestal, and see the museum.
3: Hollywood Sign
Featured in hundreds of movies, TV shows, and music videos, the Hollywood Sign is the perfect activity for film enthusiasts. The sign began as a billboard for real estate in 1923. Once 1944 rolled around, it was donated to the city of Los Angeles after years of decay, where it became a symbol of hope for generations of aspiring stars.
4: The Friends Experience
Dubbed “one of the most-watched television shows of all time,” Friends found stardom in 1994 with actors Jennifer Aniston, Courtney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt Leblanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer.
The quintessential show’s decade run left fans wanting more and resulted in ‘The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in New York City,’ an immersive experience with two floors of show sets, costumes, and props.
5: Route 66
Known as “The shortest, best, and most scenic Route from Chicago through St. Louis to Los Angeles,” Route 66 is considered one of the most famous highways ever.
The drive extends over 2,400 miles and covers two-thirds of the U.S. Travelers can stop at drive-in theaters, Petrified Forest National Park, or the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma.
6: Graceland
Music fans should take a pitstop at Elvis Presley’s Graceland. The King of Rock and Roll’s house, Graceland, is in Memphis, Tennessee, and is open to the public.
Presley lived in the home for 20 years. The mansion is full of gardens, legendary costumes, and the aircraft he used for traveling, all of which can be toured. Engaged couples can even get married at the newly built Chapel in the Woods.
7: Full House
If you find yourself on Broderick Street in San Francisco, you can catch a glimpse of the house that inspired the set of ‘Full House’ and Netflix’s ‘Fuller House.’ While it’s not open to the public, travelers can still admire the home from the outside and take pictures of the iconic exterior.
8: Times Square
Packed with loads of entertainment, Times Square is a sight to see for most travelers. The dazzling location is full of lights and places to shop. Visitors can stop by the town hall, enjoy swing music at Swing 46’s, and walk to Broadway Street.
9: The White House
The White House is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of yearly visitors. It’s a must-see stop for many people’s bucket lists. Tours can be requested and are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm on weekdays.
10: International Balloon Fiesta
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta takes place during the first week of October each year, drawing in thousands of visitors. With over 500 hot air balloons on display, the event is said to be the most photographed occasion on Earth. It also holds the title of the largest annual international event in the United States.
11: St Augustine
St. Augustine holds years of history, as it was one of the first settlements of European and African-American origin in the United States. The Florida city is home to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and hosts many guided ghost tours.
12: Pacific Coast Highway
For bucket list enthusiasts who would rather stay in their cars, the Pacific Coast Highway offers scenic views of the water and beautiful sunsets. The 655.8-mile highway runs from Orange County to Mendocino County in California.
13: Disneyland
What’s an American bucket list without a visit to Disneyland in California? The attraction opened in 1965 and is home to Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse. Great for individuals of all ages, the park offers rides, restaurants, and the chance to meet Disney characters. Of course, Walt Disney World in Orland, Florida, is also a great option.
14: Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Key West’s Butterfly and Nature Conservatory houses exotic birds, butterflies, and two flamingos. Considered the “Best Attraction in Key West,” travelers can enter the glass-domed habitat and take pictures with butterflies.
15: Hollywood Walk of Fame
The odds of bumping into a famous person are low; the odds of bumping into one while strolling through the Walk of Fame strip are probably higher. In March, actress Courtney Cox was seen cleaning her and her friend’s Walk of Fame star in broad daylight.
The Walk of Fame honors some of the world’s most talented entertainers and attracts millions of visitors annually.
Saved From Trip Failure
When visiting certain locations, such as the White House, you must provide personal identification. A driver’s license or passport does the trick. Be sure to have your ID on you at all times.
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