16 Famous American Landmarks You Must Visit
The varied landscapes and historic sites of the United States provide the chance to see a quilt of cultural and natural wonders. America is full of landmarks that give a tiny glimpse into the country’s past and present from the serene beauty of national parks to the towering skyscrapers which define vibrant city skylines. They each tell their own story and tell travelers to get into the American heritage and grandeur.
This guide takes us through 16 must visit iconic landmarks spread across the country. From the arts, history, architecture or natural beauty, each site offers a wonderful experience. Join us on this tour to learn the stories of each site, their importance to American culture, and why millions of visitors travel to these sites each year.
Statue of Liberty
In New York Harbor Lady Liberty stands tall, proud and a beacon of freedom and hope for those just arriving in by sea. A gift of France in 1886, this colossal statue isn’t only legendary as a symbol of liberty, but also as one of friendship between nations. A warm welcome to the Big Apple itself is catching sight of her massive torch and inviting smile!
Grand Canyon
Nature’s dramatic show piece comes from the Grand Canyon in Arizona; an artwork sculpted by the hands of time. It is carved by the mighty Colorado River and plunges more than a mile deep in a stretch of 277 miles. While standing on its edge offers the humbling perspective of nature’s artistic prowess, it’s a marvel that nearly every visitor photographs.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is situated across three states packed with geothermal wonders and beautiful landscapes. Famous for its bison herds and the legendary Old Faithful geyser, this park is America’s first. If you want to feel the wild spirit of the land, you can and the inconceivable beauty of nature and its surprises, that’s where you need to come.
Mount Rushmore
The stunning tribute to four American presidents, carved into the granite face of the Black Hills in South Dakota, is Mount Rushmore. The rock face is populated by Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln, peering majestically down on the spirit of the nation. It all turned solid stone into an artful leadership.
Times Square
Times Square, with it’s pulse of lights, is the heart of New York City. It has a reputation for being a cultural hub and, some would say, infamous energy, but it attracts tourists like flies to honey. From catching a Broadway show to watching people, the neon glow tells the true story of never ending NYC action.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge, an artistic design in the Art Deco style coloured with its international iconic orange hue, stretches over the San Francisco Bay. The views from the bridge are stunning, whether shrouded in fog, or gleaming in the sunlight, but driving across also gives you a taste of the bold spirit of innovation.
Independence Hall
Independence Hall, where the United States first took its steps into independence, can be found in Philadelphia. These historic walls witnessed the signing Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The country’s founding ideals walk its halls and history comes alive, a tangible connection to the ideals of the country.
Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is a place where dreams come true, or at least they do for children (and adults!). Every visit to Disney spark the joy and sets the child like wonder ablaze, with four theme parks filled with rides, shows, characters, who you never, ever get tired of seeing.
The White House
The White House is not only a grand office, it’s where the leadership of the country lives and moulds its future. As a symbol of the presidency, it welcomes those wishing to learn about the history and workings of American democracy. A White House tour offers a people a glimpse of the other side of executive power.
Alcatraz Island
A former notorious prison, Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay offers much entertaining history today. There’s a ferry to ‘The Rock’ and it takes you on a sinister but fascinating trip through creepy cells and remarkable inmate stories. Alcatraz too is a tangible link to a grimmer chapter in U.S. history, with a view of the distant city skyline.
Hollywood Sign
Beyond white letters on a hillside, the Hollywood Sign is the sign of dreams and aspirations in the sky of Los Angeles. Scaling the hills allows you to get a closer look at the action, and from many spots in the city you can see the hills and the heartbeat of the entertainment world.
The Alamo
The well known Alamo in the heart of San Antonio, Texas reminds a solemn event from the Texas Revolution. This small mission has had a large impact in American history and a visit here is a poignant look at courage and resistance.
Las Vegas Strip
Las Vegas Strip is a glittering parade of lights, liberal entertainment and over the top attractions that will dazzle. Themed casinos, as well as the awe inspiring stage performances, make Las Vegas a party waiting to happen.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls nature’s raw power set at the United States and Canada border. The noise of water thundering over the edge is itself an experience. A thrill factor is added by strapping on a rain poncho for a close up tour, as the mist envelops you.
The National Mall
The historic strip in Washington, D.C., lined with iconic monuments and museums is not actually a shopping outlet. This green expanse is shared by Roosevelt and Jefferson memorials, and the towering Washington Monument, telling the nation’s history through stone, marble, and memory.
Space Needle
A staple of Seattle, the Space Needle which soars over the city shows a forward thinking spirit. The needle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the surrounding scenery, and on a clear day Mt Rainier and the Cascades make a perfect backdrop for some starry eyed reflection.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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