places to visit before you die in usa

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USA Travel Bucket List: 50 Places to Visit Before You Die

See recent posts by Megan Johnson

While we’re often daydreaming of beaches in the Maldives and vineyards in Tuscany, there are plenty of amazing destinations in our own backyard. To help you with your bucket list, we’ve rounded up 50 places you must visit in the United States before you die — in no particular order.

1. New York City

One of the most-visited places in the world, New York City has numerous attractions, a multicultural population, and something for all types of travelers. Tourists should be sure to fit in a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square. Central Park offers a respite from the crowds, museums are impressive, and a show on Broadway followed by a slice of pizza is an ideal night out.

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The second-most popular national park in the U.S., the Grand Canyon in Arizona wows with its Colorado River-formed canyon, which stretches 277 miles long and over a mile deep. Visitors can see the park from scenic lookout points, via a stunning helicopter ride , during whitewater rafting, while riding a mule, or by hiking down and back.

3. Disney World, Florida

One of the most magical places for people of all ages, the massive Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando has four fun theme parks. Magic Kingdom has the breathtaking Cinderella Castle and nightly fireworks shows, while Epcot allows park-goers to travel around the globe by showcasing 11 different countries — think a pagoda in Japan, a biergarten in Germany, and Eiffel Tower views in France.

 4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Vibrant, historic, and downright fun, New Orleans is a popular city throughout the year. While most people know about the city’s rambunctious Mardi Gras celebrations, NOLA also offers world-class jazz music, delicious Creole and Cajun cuisines, art galleries, ghost tours, and notable buildings such as the 18th-century St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is best explored with a coffee and beignet or a frozen cocktail in hand.

5. San Antonio Missions, Texas

Sure, you probably know about The Alamo in San Antonio, but it’s actually one of five Spanish missions found across the city. The oldest is Mission Espada , which was built in 1690; original frescoes are still visible inside Mission Concepcion ; and the largest is Mission San José . Visitors can bike or drive between the missions, and park rangers provide free tours.

6. Niagara Falls, New York

While we’d argue that Niagara Falls is more impressive from the Canadian side , you can still witness the three stunning waterfalls without a passport. Head to Prospect Point in Niagara Falls State Park for a stellar vantage point, or consider a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a more up-close-and-personal view. Also worth a visit is Cave of the Winds , which is set behind Bridal Veil Falls and offers visitors a sensational view of the falls, often accompanied by a beautiful rainbow.

7. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Opened in 1937, the famous Golden Gate Bridge is an orange-colored suspension bridge that impresses with its main span of 4,200 feet and a total height of 746 feet. It connects San Francisco to Marin County, where the Golden Gate National Recreation Area has hiking, historical attractions, and lovely vistas of the bridge and San Francisco. After snapping a photo on land, travelers can bike or walk across the bridge for more picturesque views.

8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Both a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most frequented national park in America. The gorgeous park is located in both Tennessee and North Carolina, and it has tons of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and water tubing. Fall also offers striking foliage.

9. Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see where the government is run. From the White House to the Capitol to the Supreme Court Building, all three branches of government are found here, in addition to historical monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial , the Washington Monument , and World War II Memorial . Visitors can also spend hours touring the various Smithsonian museums within the National Mall .

10. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

One of the most well-known geological features in the country, Old Faithful , is a cone geyser within Yellowstone National Park . It was discovered in 1870 and got its name from its frequent and generally predictable eruptions, which occur about every 60 to 110 minutes. An average eruption is 130 to 140 feet high, expelling 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of water (depending on the length of the eruption).

Related: The 6 Best National Parks for Winter Wildlife Spotting

11. South Beach, Miami

South Beach is Miami‘s trendy hot spot, home to one of the prettiest beaches in America, gorgeous Art Deco architecture, tasty Cuban fare, and popular nightlife spots. A Latin American influence pervades the city at large, and in South Beach, tourists can shop at fancy boutiques, eat cheap Cuban sandwiches, and lounge at posh beach clubs . A beachside boardwalk is great for strolling or biking and, of course, people-watching.

12. The Narrows, Zion National Park

Within Utah’s Zion National Park , The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. It’s the park’s most popular hike due to its striking setting within a gorge, where the river acts as the trail. Hikers must wade in water that varies from ankle- to waist-deep. It’s particularly pleasant in the hot summer months, but visitors should stay on top of weather conditions, as it’s known for dangerous flash flooding.

13. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is a charming artsy town with a strong Native American influence. Pueblo-style architecture, a central plaza where vendors sell various handicrafts, and historic sights such as Loretto Chapel give the city a unique feel, plus there’s plenty to keep busy throughout the year. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine are additional highlights.

14. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Whether you choose to drive the entire 659 miles of the Pacific Coast Highway or just a fraction thereof, you’ll be rewarded with sensational vistas. Certain routes can be done in a day, but we recommend taking your time by starting in San Francisco and slowly making your way to Orange County. The best views are arguably in Big Sur, where you’ll find rugged cliffs against the ocean on one side and redwood forests on the other.

15. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Just outside of Washington, D.C., is Arlington National Cemetery , which spans 624 acres and houses the graves of 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their families. The graves of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis are frequently visited, as is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains haven’t been identified. The moving Changing of the Guard can be witnessed every 30 or 60 minutes while the cemetery is open, depending on the time of year.

16. Nashville, Tennessee

Even those who don’t love country music will likely be enamored with Nashville, Tennessee. Excellent restaurants and hip bars make for a thriving nightlife scene, and the live music — much of which is country — on Broadway is not to be missed. Top attractions include Centennial Park for its full-size replica of Greece’s Parthenon, the Grand Ole Opry concert hall, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

17. Freedom Trail, Boston

Boston played a large part in America’s independence, and the city’s Freedom Trail passes through 16 historically significant locations. The two-and-a-half-mile trail takes visitors to Boston Common (America’s oldest public park), the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere’s House , and the USS Constitution (the oldest commissioned ship that acts as a museum today).

18. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Located in southern California, east of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a dreamy destination known for its distinctive-looking namesake trees, big boulders that are ideal for rock climbing, and stellar stargazing opportunities . Visitors can drive through, hike around, camp, or ride horseback through the desert landscape.

19. Road to Hana, Maui

The top attraction in Maui on TripAdvisor, the Road to Hana (Hana Highway) is a 64.4-mile drive that connects Kahului, where the airport is located, to the town of Hana on Maui’s more rugged east coast. The drive is not for the faint of heart, as it has over 600 switchbacks and 56 one-lane bridges, but the speed limit never surpasses 25 miles per hour. Travelers who hit the road are rewarded with spectacular lush greenery, stunning black-sand beaches, multiple waterfalls, and spots to buy banana bread.

20. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Colorado

Located about a 30-minute drive outside of Denver, the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is an open-air concert and entertainment venue. The entire theater, including the seating, was built into the red rocks, which make for a phenomenal acoustic experience. Tourists can run up and down the steps in the morning and see big-name acts at night. Past performers include The Beatles, U2, Coldplay, and John Denver.

Related: Maui vs. Kauai: Which Hawaiian Island Is Better for You?

21. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is where the Colorado River takes a horseshoe-shaped bend in Glen Canyon. Visitors to Horseshoe Bend have skyrocketed since it gained recognition through Instagram. It’s easily accessible, as travelers can hike a one-and-a-half-mile round-trip trail from a parking lot off the highway.

22. Austin, Texas

The capital of Texas, Austin, is a hip, youthful city where low-frills barbecue joints and big-name tech corporations coexist. From stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Austin to topless sunbathing at Barton Springs Pool , there are a lot of ways to beat the daytime heat. Nights can be spent at upscale restaurants, Sixth Street bars with live music, or watching bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Buy a University of Texas T-shirt and some cowboy boots while you’re there.

23. Space Needle, Seattle

An iconic landmark in Seattle, the Space Needle is an observation tower that was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. With its antenna, it rises 604 feet, allowing for panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding water. A 100-million-dollar renovation included the creation of the Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. A cafe and wine bar entice visitors to linger.

24. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Located in South Dakota, this famous landmark depicts four American presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore . Constructed between 1927 and 1941, the sculpture features the 60-foot heads of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

25. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico

Every year since 1972, Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta, in which the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons. For nine days in October, families and friends gather to watch the largest balloon festival in the world.

26. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Another top attraction (and the most-photographed) within Yellowstone National Park is the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest hot spring in the United States, measuring 370 feet in diameter. It’s best viewed from above, as the spring has vibrant bands of rainbow colors.

27. Griffith Observatory, California

Situated on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, Griffith Observatory is a popular observatory with free admission. It has stellar views of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles, and visitors can use telescopes, the planetarium, various events, and a cafe.

28. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Completed in 1932, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a two-lane highway that allows visitors to traverse the 50-mile width of Glacier National Park . Various scenic lookouts and noteworthy hikes can be found off the road, and it crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Due to weather conditions, it generally doesn’t open until late June or early July.

29. Las Vegas, Nevada

Whether for a bachelorette party, Celine Dion concert, or business conference, there’s a good chance you’ve at least thought about going to Las Vegas. Sin City is renowned for its world-class casinos, nightlife, and celebrity-chef-helmed restaurants, not to mention rowdy pool parties with famous DJs. It’s not all debauchery, though, and many kid-friendly activities dot the city.

30. Acadia National Park, Maine

Maine‘s beauty is undeniable, and that’s perhaps best displayed at Acadia National Park . Located near Bar Harbor, the 47,000-acre park sits along the coast and offers ample wildlife, such as moose and peregrine falcons, beaches, lush forests, and granite ridges formed by glaciers. While summer is a popular time to visit, the fall foliage makes for great autumn hiking.

Related: Top 9 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

31. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Located a four-hour drive south of Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon is a national park best known for having the largest concentration of hoodoos (irregular rock columns) in the world. The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019 due to the great nighttime visibility and many astronomy-related programs on offer.

32. Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Often considered a symbol of America’s independence, the iconic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia was ordered by Pennsylvania Assembly in 1751. It was previously housed in Independence Hall, the building where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were adopted. It has since been moved to the Liberty Bell Center within the Independence National Historical Park .

33. Charleston, South Carolina

The 1670-founded Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city, Today, it offers a lovely mix of old-fashioned Southern charm and contemporary style. Cobblestone streets filled with horse-drawn carriages and striking mansions can be found in its well-preserved Historic District, while notable wartime places, like Fort Sumter and Patriots Point , sit nearby. Cute boutique shops and traditional Southern comfort food appeal to visitors, as does Folly Beach , located a 25-minute drive south of the city.

34. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot springs may conjure images of Iceland or Costa Rica, but the aptly named city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers U.S. travelers ample opportunities to soak in naturally heated springs. The town is located in the Ouachita Mountains, about one hour from Little Rock. Bathhouse Row has several bathhouse options, including places for coed or gender-segregated experiences. A few dispensers around the city let people obtain cold spring water straight from the mountain.

35. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Roughly equidistant from Portland and San Francisco, the Redwood National and State Parks encompass 139,000 acres and three state parks. Visitors here will find stunning redwood trees, which are some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in the world. On average, redwoods live between 500 and 700 years, and a typical redwood here measures 300 feet tall and 16 to 20 feet in diameter.

36. Oahu, Hawaii

The most popular of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu provides picture-perfect beaches, hiking opportunities, and the conveniences of a city — think budget-friendly hotels, chain restaurants, and an international eatery. Top attractions include Waikiki Beach in Honolulu , Diamond Head — a dormant volcano crater that can be hiked — and North Shore, a beach with huge waves that make it a frequent host of international surfing competitions in the winter. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also worth a visit.

The 49th state of Alaska is stunning, with greenery-filled forests, tons of wildlife (think bears, humpback whales, and moose), and massive glaciers. However, it’s not the easiest place to explore, as even the capital of Juneau has no roads leading out of the city. Arguably the best way to see Alaska is on a cruise , stopping at ports like Ketchikan , which has a strong native culture and renowned salmon fishing.

38. Sonoma, California

While we love Napa Valley in California, Sonoma provides a slightly less touristy wine-country experience. Sonoma is set among beautiful rolling hills, and many of the over 400 wineries within Sonoma County have a laid-back atmosphere that will put visitors at ease. Like Napa, Sonoma has tons of top-notch restaurants, relaxing spas, bike rentals, and charming bed-and-breakfasts to choose from.

39. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

A four-hour drive south of Portland, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is 183,224 acres and home to America’s deepest lake. Crater Lake, a caldera formed by the eruption of Mount Mazama volcano, is 1,943 feet deep at its deepest point and has a striking deep blue hue. Swimming and fishing are permitted, plus park-goers can hike, bike, ski, and stargaze.

40. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

Located 90 minutes north of Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage site. An active Native American community resides on Taos Pueblo lands, both within the Pueblo and in surrounding areas. The present buildings, which are made of adobe, are believed to have been constructed between 1000 and 1450 A.D. Guided tours are available of the site.

Related: Best Destinations for Adult-Only Vacations

41. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Another Instagram darling, Antelope Canyon , is a magnificent, awe-inspiring slot canyon near Horseshoe Bend in Arizona, formed by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. It’s located on Navajo tribal lands, and the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons can only be accessed with a guide licensed by the tribe.

42. Minnesota Lakes

Minnesota is considered the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” though it actually has nearly 12,000, and many are fantastic spots for a summer vacation. Whether you choose to dip your toes in the chilly Lake Superior — one of the Great Lakes — or go full-on swimming in Mille Lacs Lake (which is large but shallow), there’s a lake in Minnesota for you.

43. Arches National Park, Utah

Just outside of Moab is Arches National Park , famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches — the largest concentration of them on Earth. The most photographed is the 52-foot-tall, freestanding Delicate Arch, plus the park has many other striking geological formations.

44. Kentucky Derby

Since 1865, the Kentucky Derby horse race has been taking place at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. Women wear elaborate hats, while gentlemen don seersucker suits in pastel hues. Visitors come to watch the 20 three-year-old Thoroughbred horses race 1.25 miles — often with a mint julep in hand.

45. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located in Michigan’s Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a charming 1780-founded island with a population of just around 1,000 (though it sees many tourists during its peak season). A majority of the island is a state park, which has forests, wildlife, and hiking trails. The use of motor vehicles has been outlawed here since 1898, so expect to ride around on bikes or in horse-drawn carriages and buggies.

46. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica sits due west of Los Angeles, and the town lures travelers with its postcard-worthy beach, pier with amusement park rides, and boulevard lined by shops and eateries. A 22-mile paved bike trail is a great way to see the city, plus the famous Muscle Beach , an outdoor gym dating back to the 1930s, is not to be missed.

47. Space Center, Houston

The Space Center in Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and home of NASA Mission Control and astronaut training. It allows visitors to view more than 400 space artifacts, as well as traveling and permanent exhibits related to space travel.

48. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

About a 90-minute drive from Denver is Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park , which attracts millions of visitors each year with its 355 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives to more than 12,000 feet in elevation, and over 50 lakes and streams for fishing. Year-round activities abound, and travelers can either camp within the park or stay at a nearby hotel such as the Stanley Hotel (the inspiration for “The Shining”).

49. Fenway Park, Boston

Long considered America’s pastime, baseball is something every U.S. citizen and traveler should witness at least once. There are 30 Major League Baseball teams, and while Wrigley Field in Chicago, Yankee Stadium in New York, and Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles are all suitable spots, we love Fenway Park in Boston for its easy-to-reach location. Plus, the many die-hard Red Sox fans make for a fun experience.

50. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is a fascinating tourist attraction that was developed as a Civil War fortress, followed by a military prison and federal prison (until 1963). Ferries shuttle visitors to the island, where guided tours showcase the complex history of the site and its prison.

How many destinations can you check off the list? Find out down below:

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101 Places to Visit in USA – Your Ultimate USA Bucket List

• In the City / Outdoors / USA

How many of these places have you visited in the US?

I can’t believe this is our 6th year of moving to a new city every year. We can officially say we’ve lived in all four corners of the US. Now, it’s time to explore more of the heartland. Who’s coming with us?

There’s so much beauty right here in our greater backyard that we used to neglect. The grass seems greener on the other side, and we’re often filled with wanderlust for faraway places. But if we just stop to look, it’s incredible how many different types of landscapes and cultures fill this country. 

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 30, 2023

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• Most Beautiful Hotels in the US

Planning Checklist

101 places to visit in usa – the ultimate usa bucket list.

We’ve stepped foot in 47 states and covered a lot of ground over the years. Even after living in 7 different cities plus doing a handful of cross country road trips, we feel like we barely made a dent (I also can’t help that our list continues to grow longer and longer). Today, we put together a list of many of our favorite destinations in the US to give you a good start.

Of course, there are many more than 101 places worth visiting in the US. If you need even more suggestions, click the links below to see full guides on each destination. Want to explore the US by month? Use the links below.

USA IN  Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

Denali National Park →

Denali is one of the more accessible national parks in Alaska. Our favorite thing to do here was the  flightseeing tour .

Katmai National Park

A great time to see the Katmai bears is during the salmon runs from mid-July to mid-September. If you visit mid-May to mid-July, you can see mom bears and their cubs.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Head to Seward, Alaska to visit Kenai Fjords National park. A boat cruise is the best way to see the park and don’t miss the short hike to Exit Glacier.

Antelope Canyon →

These vibrant and beautiful slot canyons are crowded. If you want to find a less crowded option, head to Waterholes Canyon.

Havasupai Indian Reservation →

Hike down into the canyon to greeted by waterfalls plunging into turquoise waters. Permits are hard to get, so here are  our tips .

Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area →

A short hike (1.3 mi round trip) takes you to a viewpoint where you can see the horseshoe shaped bend in the Colorado River. We also took a boat ride through, which offered a unique perspective.

Grand Canyon National Park →

The easiest way to get here is via  helicopter from Vegas . Although, the views are more impressive from the top looking down.

Don’t miss the  Devil’s Bridge hike  and  Slide Rock State Park .

Saguaro National Park →

The park is split into Saguaro East and West near Tucson AZ. West photographed better, while East was less crowded and felt more like you were in nature.

They only allow 20 people in per day. These permits shave been the hardest to get. See our  top Wave permit tips here .

White Pocket →

If you can’t get into the Wave, this is the best alternative. Photographers love White Pocket because it hasn’t been photographed a million times like the Wave

Disneyland →

If you’re a socal resident and you love Disneyland, the annual pass is the way to go.

One of my favorite places in the world. Popular stops are McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

Channel Islands National Park →

Explore the islands through kayaking or diving for a really unique experience.

Death Valley National Park →

This park is massive and has diverse landscapes. Summers are brutally hot, so this park is  best in the winter .

Joshua Tree National Park →

Jtree doesn’t have the prettiest hikes, but it’s a climber’s paradise. It also photographs beautifully at sunset and stargazing and astrophotography are amazing.

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful crystal clear lake. Skiing is great in the winter, and hiking in the summer. The Nevada side is less popular but just as beautiful.

See More: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip

Los Angeles →

Traffic is almost impossible to avoid. Load up on music and audiobooks while you wait. Check out our LA bucket list, free things to do, instagram spots, and food guide. If you like Korean food, LA has the best we’ve found outside of Korea.

Napa Valley →

Napa is the most popular wine country in the US. If you love food and can get a reservation at  the French Laundry , we absolutely recommend it.

Redwood national Park →

See these California coast giants. They can grow up to 300 ft tall.

San Diego →

Can we all retire and become beach bums? Life is too easy in sunny San Diego. It’s one of our favorite cities we’ve lived in the US. Check out our  free things to do ,  instagram spots , and  SD bucket list .

San Francisco →

It’s known for the famous Golden Gate bridge, year round fog (named  Karl ), and colorful mismatched Victorian houses. The culture of SF has changed over the years, but it’s still one of my favorite cities with easy access to the outdoors too.

Sequoia + Kings Canyon National Park →

Walk among the largest trees in the world (by volume).

Although popularity is increasing, if you want a less touristy wine country experience than Napa, go to  Sonoma . IYKYK

Yosemite National Park →

Our favorite national park. It’s become extremely popular and crowded especially in the Valley. The park is massive, so explore outside the valley to avoid the crowds or visit in late fall to winter. Keep in mind, most waterfalls dry up in the winter.

See More: Best Places to See California Wildflowers

Black Canyon of the Gunnison →

12 miles of the deepest and most dramatic part of the Black Canyon.

Watching a concert at Red Rocks is a unique experience. Or head there for your morning workout. You’ll have plenty of workout buddies.

Garden of the Gods

300 ft sandstone rock formations that can easily be seen through a scenic drive. There’s supposed to be some cool climbing here too.

Great Sand Dunes National Park →

Hike up Star Dune, the highest sand dune in North America. Also try sandboarding!

Maroon Bells

They’re the most photographed peaks in Aspen.

Mesa Verde national Park →

Do one of the  cliffside dwelling tours  where you can walk through and get a closer look. a UNESCO world heritage site.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road are popular drives that take you through aspens, winding rivers, and mountain scenery.

Vail is well known as a skiing destination but also beautiful for  outdoor activities in the summer .

Everglades National Park

It’s the largest tropical wilderness in the US and also a UNESCO world heritage site. 

Florida Keys →

Take the Overseas Highway for a scenic drive.

Miami and Miami Beach

This was our go-to college spring break spot with their endless clubs. Now we visit for Art deco buildings, white sand beaches, and Cuban food.

Best known for for Disney World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal. Our favorite park is Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

No matter what city we live in, we’ll always be ATLiens at heart. The city is full of southern charm but with the conveniences of a big city. See our  ATL bucket list ,  best instagram spots ,  free things to do , and  food guide .

Step into the quintessential South with Antebellum architecture, cobblestone squares, and massive oak trees covered in Spanish moss.

See More: 15 Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta GA

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

They have two active volcanoes.

Na Pali Coast, Kauai

Picture entering into Jurassic Park, because that’s where they filmed it.

Road to Hana, Maui →

Take the Road to Hana and  check out these stops .

Oahu Lantern Floating Ceremony (Memorial Day)

Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor Memorial, Hanauma Bay are the touristy spots. If you’re there on Memorial Day you can see the Lantern Floating Ceremony.

Iowa State Fair

More than a million people from all over the world gather here annually. I grew up in Iowa and only vaguely remember going as a child, but on our cross country road trip last year, I got to see the Butter Cow in all its glory. All 600 pounds of Iowa butter. It’s weird, but nothing quite like it.

Wrigley Field, Millenium Park, Skydeck are the popular spots.

See More: 15 Spectacular Day Trips from Chicago

Kansas City →

(Also in Missouri) Don’t miss Kansas City BBQ at Joe’s – our favorite!

Grab your big hats and head to the Kentucky Derby. Plus, it’s part of the  Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

New Orleans →

Known for the French Quarter and Mardis Gras. Don’t forget to try some crawfish and Cajun cuisine.

Acadia National Park →

Beautiful in the fall. Great for unique rock climbing on the coast.

Portland ME →

Did you know that Portland Oregon got its name from Portland Maine? Visit the lighthouses and eat ALL the lobster rolls.

Explore the upscale crab shacks and learn about its important role in US history. It’s known as the city of neighborhoods.

Massachusetts

Walk the Freedom Trail, watch a game at Fenway Park, and eat lots of seafood.

Great summertime destination with cute villages, seafood shacks, and lighthouses.

Martha’s Vineyard

Popular in the summer and only accessible by plane or boat.

Salem is famous for the witch trials. You can learn more about the history at the Salem Witch Museum.

Minneapolis-St Paul

Check out the Minneapolis sculpture garden, Walker Art Center, and Minnehaha Park. Mall of America was the biggest mall in the US when we were kids, but now it’s the 5th largest.

Glacier National Park →

Going to the Sun road is a nice scenic drive. Hike a trail for even more amazing views of alpine lakes and mountains.

See More: What You Need to Know Before You Visit Glacier National Park

Great Basin National Park →

Go during the astronomy festival for amazing stargazing and astrophotography (late Sept).

Las Vegas →

There’s so much more to the city than the strip. It’s also great home base to explore the outdoors. Check out our  ultimate Vegas bucket list ,  free things to do , and  food guide .

Valley of Fire State Park →

This Mars-like landscape is only an hour away from Vegas..

See More: 101 Things to Do in Nevada

Atlantic City

AC is the most popular gambling destination on the East Coast and also known for their beaches and iconic boardwalk.

Alburquerque

The  Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta  is the world’s largest balloon festival.

Love the Pueblo style architecture prominent through the city.

This high desert town is known for historic Adobe buildings and artist colonies.

White Sands National Park →

Go early in the morning so you don’t see a bunch of footprints.

See More: ABQ Balloon Festival – What You Need to Know Before You Go

Niagara Falls

Don’t forget your passport in case you want to check out the view from the Canada side as well.

New York City / NYC →

You can never be bored in NYC. Have you stepped in all 5 boroughs? I still need to take the Staten Island ferry to the forgotten borough. See our  NYC bucket list ,  places to eat ,  instagrammable places , and  New Yorker tips for visitors .

See More: 21 Absolutely Stunning Places to Visit Upstate NY

North Carolina

Asheville →.

People refer to Asheville as the Portland of the east coast. There’s hiking, craft beer, and a great food scene.

See More: 15 Best Hikes Near Asheville NC

Crater Lake →

Crater Lake sits inside a collapsed volcano. Bring your wide angle lens to get it in one frame.

Oregon Coast →

Cannon Beach or Astoria is a popular starting point.

Pack a raincoat and hiking boots unless you’re visiting in July-Aug. Our favorite part of Portland was the  easy access to the outdoors .

See More: Your Ultimate Oregon Bucket List

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia →.

Visit Independence Hall and compare your Philly cheesesteaks.

Pittsburgh is the city of bridges. They have 446 bridges, which is more than any other city in the world.

South Carolina

Charleston →.

They have great rooftop bars and Rainbow Row is a must for instagrammers. Also see  our Charleston bucket list  and  food guide .

South Dakota

Badlands national park →.

Take sunrise photos at the Door trailhead or Window trailhead and sunset photos to Pinnacles Overlook. 

Mount Rushmore

Trivia – Who are the four presidents carved on Mt Rushmore? Highlight Below for Answers -> 

George Washington, Abraham, Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson.

Great Smoky Mountains

(also in NC) Take in the view from Clingmans Dome, the highest mountain in the Smokies.

The city that has made a big impact on Blues, Soul, and Rock and Roll.

Nashville →

Be sure to try hot chicken and check out the Parthenon Replica and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

More on our  Austin bucket list ,  free things to do , and  food spots .

Marble Falls

Between March and April, Bluebonnets carpet Texas Hill Country. Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls is one of many popular spots.

Arches National Park →

Devil’s Garden trail  was our favorite hike in the park.

Bryce Canyon National park →

Time it so you can do a full moon hike.

Canyonlands National park

Drive through the real life landscape of Pixar’s Cars.

Goblin Valley State Park

Mars like landscape filled with hoodoos. Locals call them goblins.

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Lots of backcountry trails, and not as busy as other  Utah parks .

Monument Valley

That iconic shot from Forest Gump.

Park City →

Great for skiing and snowboarding.

Zion National Park →

Angel’s Landing  and  the Narrows  are two of our favorite hikes.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Utah State

Great place to base yourself to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains

Mount Rainier National Park

Rainier is the highest mountain of the Cascade Range and highest mountain in Washington. If you’re an alpinist, this is one of the mountains to conquer. The park is especially beautiful with wildflowers in late July and early August.

North Cascades National park →

This is a great hiking destination. It’s not as easy to access via car except for Ross Lake plus they have a short season.

Olympic National park →

Did you know there’s a rainforest in the US. Olympic NP has the only one in the continental US.

Orcas Island

Largest of the San Juan Islands. The name actually originated from Horcasitas, but from May to October during the salmon run, you can see orca whales too.

See our  ultimate Seattle bucket list  and  guide to the best museums .

Washington DC

Washington dc →.

See our  DC Bucket List  and  49 best places to eat . Even though it’s ridiculously crowded, cherry blossom season is beautiful.

Apostle Islands

If Lake Superior freezes in winter, you can walk to these islands with frozen waterfalls and chambers. They also have one of the greatest concentrations of black bears. 

All the Great Lakes

There are 5 Great Lakes, and we want to swim in them all. Can you name all 5?

Cody is known as the rodeo capital of the world.

Grand Teton National Park →

You can check out Tetons and Yellowstone in one trip. Tetons is much less busy.

Yellowstone National Park →

We’re not the biggest fans of Yellowstone because it tends to attract visitors that don’t respect the park, but we can’t deny that the colorful hot springs and features are beautiful. Plus, it’s great for spotting wildlife.

See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming

101 Places to Visit in USA Map

10 Beautiful Hotels to Put On Your USA Bucket List

• Amangiri Resort, Canyon Point, UT  
• Fairmont Grand Del Mar, San Diego, CA  – Travelers Choice 2019 
• Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, Santa Fe, NM
• The Inn Above Tide, Sausalito, CA
• Ocean House, Watch Hill, RI
• The Plaza, NYC
• The Setai, Miami Beach, FL
• Triple Creek Ranch Darby, MT
• Waldorf Astoria Chicago, IL
• Wentworth Mansion, Charleston, SC   – Travelers Choice 2019 
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

How many of these places have you been to? How many are on your USA bucket list?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

This Post Has 5 Comments

Love this post! Love how you have organized them by the state – we have seen a lot of America but it always amazes me how much there is to see and experience.

Thanks for the list which of course is just a tiny fraction of the places and only includes selected states along with some questionable cities that are part of someones bucket list. I think if someone were to take a grand tour of this great country the list would be more like 1001 places! Everyone’s goal regarding a “bucket list” varies depending on that persons aspirations as to what they like to do, see, eat, and explore, which makes it difficult to define a true bucket list. Although I don’t live in Michigan, which was one of the states not represented in this list has many offerings including recreation such as camping, snowmobiling, boating, fishing, and has wonderful places to visit such as Sleeping Bear Dunes, Mackinaw Island along with the suspension bridge, and for those car lovers many automobile museums. Keep on making those bucket lists so those that want to explore based on there desires can truly see this magnificent country.

Thanks, Buddy! There really is sooo much to see, and you’re completely right. We could easily find 1001 bucket list worthy places here. :)

semi retired and starting bucket list travels

You two are amazing and love your sense of pure adventure! We love adventure too – family style. We moved to Colorado Springs nearly 3 years ago and as time allows with four busy kids, we are slowly exploring every corner – southwest Colorado road trip coming up: Great Sand Dunes NP, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde NP, Telluride, Ouray, Black Canyon NP, and more! There is a lot to see in Colorado Springs too and we love it. Thanks for a great list!

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New year, new travel goals: 60 things to do in America before you die

The Great American Bucket List: 50 Things To Do In The U.S. Before You Die

The Great American Bucket List: 50 Things to Do in the U.S. Before You Die

Part of every trip to an unfamiliar destination is a visit to one or two tourist traps. While some of them must be avoided at all times and costs , others are worth the time , effort and money.

From visiting all 59 national parks , which are still referred to as "America's best idea," to going to football games, embarking on a safari and even attending a rodeo, the great American bucket list has a stunning variety of activities and tons of places to see.

With the help from various travel sites and published adventure stories on The Active Times, we have compiled The Great American Bucket List.

It's time to get out there and conquer the world. Grab your bucket list; you will definitely want to add these trips to it.

Road trip along Route 66

Traveling with a car along the legendary 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica is one of the  craziest adventures you can do in the country. The historic Route 66 has been featured in just about everything – TV, music, movies. Many places still keep the original two-lane highway. Stop by Pontiac and visit the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum. Along the way you'll also find stunning panoramas , charming towns , rocky cliffs, and beautiful  deserts and parks . If you really want to see what it's like to be "alone" on the road, go west from Kingman past the saguaro cacti and loose boulders. You'll get to Oatman, an old gold-mining town. Don't forget to visit the Meteor Crater in Arizona, which is 50,000 years old.

Hiking the John Muir Trail

This is classic hike. When it comes to Yosemite, John Muir definitely deserves founding father status. The Scottish-born world famous naturalist was the catalyst in the creation of the park, and his namesake trail runs 211 miles between Yosemite Valley and Mount Whitney (the highest point in the Lower 48). This is a land made up of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot peaks,  lakes in the thousands, and  canyons and granite cliffs. The JMT is has the mildest, sunniest climate of any major mountain range in the world, according to the  Pacific Crest Trail Association .

Visit All 59 National Parks in One Year

Visiting all 59 national parks in the U.S. and its territories in 52 weeks in an airstream, is often referred to as the " greatest American road trip ." It sounds like an  impossible adventure  to many, but several people have already been on the road doing exactly that because of the centennial anniversary of the National Park Service. It's a combination of being  very happy to be in the parks  but also very tired.

Go on a Cruise around Alaska

Cruising Alaska, one of the most "outdoorsy" state in the U.S. , is more popular than ever before, but you can still find a great deal if you're flexible, especially in the summer . A 7-day cruise aboard the Grand Princess of Princess Cruises makes stops in Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau, among others. The reasons to visit the Last Frontier are endless – unique wildlife everywhere, migrating salmon, mighty mountains, and national parks .

Winter Surfing

Most people associate surfing  with warm water, sandy beaches and lots of sunshine. The sport can easily transition into the winter. In fact, many fans prefer the cold season because that's when they get the best waves  and favorable winds. Also, there are fewer people. Just make sure you have the right gear .

Ice Caving in Wisconsin

Bayfield Peninsula Sea Caves are some of the most jaw-dropping sights you can witness in the country. In the winter, they are morphed into ice caves. Take the entire family and explore their beauty. The incredible formations and the splendor of the crystal clea r ice will astonish you. Spectacular year-round ice caves you can visit are Big Four in Washington, only a short drive from Seattle , and Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska. They are constantly on the move, as the glacier inches towards Mendenhall Lake and changes shape along the way.

See Lava Flow in Hawaii

Did you know that The Big Island is getting bigger every year by about 42 acres because of lava flow from the Kīlauea Volcano? It can even be  seen from space . The phenomenon is known as lava delta – when  lava flows into the ocean  over a long period of time resulting in the formation of new land. There are two possible ways to see the lava: From a distance, e.g. in the crater of the Kilauea Volcano, and close by from boats as the lava flows down the island into the ocean, according to Love Big Island. 

Whitewater Rafting in Ocoee River, Tennessee

The Ocoee River in in the Cherokee National Forest is among the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the country, and also one of the most dangerous . It has more than 20 continuous rapids. More than 300,000 people go every year. The rapids are categorized as Class III, but Mickey's is Class IV.  Adventurers get to choose between a 5-foot ledge drop into a deep hole or a rocky descent down a 4-foot ledge. Few adventures are as thrilling and terrifying at the same time as  riding mighty waves . 

Appalachian Trail

Arguably the most famous long-distance trail in the world, the Appalachian Trail runs for approximately 2,200 miles from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mt. Katahdin and Maine. Marked by iconic white blazes, the trail attracts 2 million hikers annually, including some two-thousand would-be thru-hikers. Part of the trail within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited in the country , is perfect for majestic fall foliage displays .

Hike an Active Volcano in Hawaii

A lot of volcanoes have been in a  continuous eruption state for decades and even thousands of years. As the most active  volcano in Hawaii , Kilauea has had a history of eruptions. Try hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail. You will descend through a  lush rainforest  to the floor of the solidified but still steaming Kīlauea Iki Crater lava lake, according to  NPS . Bring water, food, hat, sunscreen and  rain gear .

Go Snorkeling on Catalina Island

Snorkeling is the perfect way to get close to pure marine life without swimming at  unnerving depths . Floating calmly in clear blue waters and gazing at bright and colorful flora and reefs, swarmed by many different kinds of fish species makes for an  unforgettable trip . By far the Lover's Cove is the most popular snorkel spot   off Catalina. Snorkelers will see sea stars, eels, anemones, octopuses, and, most notably, the brilliant orange Garibaldi fish.

Swim With Manatees in Florida

Crystal River is the best place to go swimming with manatees  and the best time is in September and October when there is a rise in the manatee population. Reputable outfitters can take you to the manatees without disturbing their fragile habitat and provide all the gear you need, including  wetsuits . The water temperature in the river is a brisk 72 degrees year-round.

Explore Underwater Caves in Florida

Exploring underwater caves can be an incredible experience, but you should be properly trained and it's best to travel with a guide. It is especially dangerous because if something were to happen, the diver cannot swim vertically up to the surface because of the surrounding cave. Some of the best places to go cave diving in the U.S. are Devil's Cave System in Ginnie Springs and Merritt's Mill Pond in Florida.

Camp at Sahale Glacier Camp in Washington

This is one of the most dangerous camping places in the world . Sahale Glacier is on the south slope of Sahale Mountain, North Cascades National Park. There is no camping at Cascade Pass, but the  best camping place  is close enough about 5.7 miles in and 7,600 feet high. The views of alpine meadows, snow-covered summits and lakes are absolutely incredible, but getting to the camp is not easy.

Witness Fall Foliage in New England

Clean air, panoramic views of bursting bright colors and miles of forests  – the New England states are not the only ones boasting awe-inspiring fall foliage . All of New England is known for its autumn colors. Chances are you already live a short  road trip away  from spots with phenomenal mixtures of yellow, red, orange and green. Adventurers and  fans of outdoor activities  can't wait to put their hiking boots on.

Canoe the Boundary Waters in Minnesota

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is part of the Superior National Forest. Over 1 million acres in size, it has over 1,200 miles of canoe routes . Because this area was set aside in 1926 to preserve its primitive character and made a part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1964, it allows visitors to canoe , portage and camp in the spirit of the French Voyageurs of 200 years ago, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Go to a Super Bowl

Regardless of whether you like football or only watch the final game for the commercials, watching the  Super Bowl live is only topped if you were a player and won the trophy.  The lights, the fireworks , the half time show, the fans, the quality of game, the after-party (especially if your team wins) – all of these make seeing the Big Game live a must-do . 

See Indy 500 Live

It's the perfect guys-only getaway . The Indianapolis 500 Mile Race is called "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." If you are into fast cars, seeing it live is a must. Along with the Kentucky Derby, the Rose Bowl and a select few others, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and its marquee event has retained its status as the most powerful one day event for a sports fan.

Drive Along Pacific Coast Highway

This is definitely one of the most scenic roads in the entire country . If you want to go beach hopping, this is the road trip for you. The Pacific Coast Highway will take you to some remarkable beach towns,  some can even be great for surfing , eventually leading to the famous Big Sur, a rugged stretch of California's central coast between Carmel and San Simeon. Drive Big Sur's length via twisting Highway One. The Bixby Bridge is a favorite spot  for photos . Another one is McWay Falls, a cascade that falls about 70 feet into a remote beach.

Marvel at the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights before disappear . They can be seen all over the Land of the Midnight Sun. However, the most reliable spot to see them is  Fairbanks . Take the Northern Lights Tour and follow your guide to some of the best locations to  view the aurora . Tip: Visit in the winter when it is cold and dark for peak viewing.

Ski in Colorado

Colorado has some of the best ski resorts in the world , including for beginners and "non-skiers." Aspen Snowmass, for example, never fails to charm each and every guest—even those not interested in the excellent powder-topped terrain. Ullr Nights, the Friday night gathering that takes place each week, includes family, friends, tubing, snowbiking, ice skating, hot chocolate, a bonfire and live music. The resort also hosts yoga classes at 11,212 feet with stellar views and excellent programs for kids.

Go Surfing in San Diego

San Diego is one of the coolest surfing towns in the world . It has awesome wave pools in addition to a plethora of good surf spots and some of the best surf schools in the country. Some of the best spots are the world-famous river-mouth point break at the border of San Diego and Orange Counties –Trestles, Oceanside and its miles of gentle breaks, Cardiff, Del Mar, Blacks Beach, which is arguably San Diego's best wave.

Catch a Rodeo in Wyoming

Catch a rodeo at Cheyenne Frontier Days , the world's largest outdoor rodeo. The city has been known for decades as the prime location for railroading and rodeo-ing in the country. There are also many steam engines and working dude ranches to check out. Every Friday night, during summer, small towns are lit up with the excitement of rodeo arenas, according to Travel Wyoming.

Ice Climbing in Montana

Ice climbing is no longer just a subset of mountaineering. More and more adrenaline seekers climb frozen waterfalls and steep ice since the equipment for this high-risk sport has gotten better. For an extreme experience, try Mount Washington in New Hampshire. The weather changes fast and all the time and ice and snow is everlasting in many parts of the mountain. Alaska and Montana are friendlier. Ice Climbing in Glacier National Park is for the more experienced climbers .  

Visit Walt Disney World in Florida

This is the place where magic happens and dreams come true. If you haven't already, visit Walt Disney World . There is so much to do and even more to explore. Take your family on a behind the scenes tour; have a seat at Cinderella's Royal table and enjoy a meal with Cinderella herself; ride the monorail for incredible  sightseeing opportunities ; and hop in an open-air vehicle and explore the African savanna on a  safari at Animal Kingdom .

Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its extravagant parties, one of which includes Mardi Gras. Participate in festivals, join in on the parades and even take a city tour.

Go on a Hike in Grand Canyon National Park

A trip to the Grand Canyon would not be complete without a hike. Visitors say hiking the canon is an incredible experience and the backcountry is truly amazing . Hike the Rim-to-Rim Trail, the Bright Angel Trail, Rainbow Rim Trail, Hermit Trail and South Kaibab Trail.

Visit Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

Niagara Falls links the international border between the U.S. and Canada. It was formed by receding glaciers. It consists of three waterfalls: The Horseshoe Falls (the most powerful waterfall in North America), the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The falls are located on the Niagara River and they have a combined fall with the highest flow rate of all of the world's waterfalls.

Visit Cedar Point Amusement Park in Ohio

Also known as the "Roller Coaster Capitol of the World," this is one of the world's most popular amusement parks . It contains 18 world-class roller coasters and a variety of family-friendly rides. Ride the Millennium Force – one of the world's most thrilling roller coasters . It is a 310-foot ride that reaches speeds of 96 mph and features an elevator cable lift system that helps you get to the top faster.

Go Zip Lining in Las Vegas

There are tons of adrenaline inducing activities in Las Vegas , but probably the most popular is the SlotZilla zip line. Soar down Freemont Street between the casinos and pedestrian promenade. Then, if you're looking for some fun outside the city, zip line with Flightlinez and soar over the Mojave Desert.

Climb to the Top of the Space Needle in Seattle

If you are looking for a spectacular view, look no further than from the top of the Space Needle in Seattle. The observation deck is located at about 520 feet. It offers 350 degree views of the Emerald City.

Visit Times Square in New York City

Times Square is one of the best and  most visited attractions  in New York. Tourists can enjoy delicious foods from famous restaurants, shopping in countless shops and watching plays and musicals. But visit at night for one of the most magnificent Times Square experiences; simply look around you and admire the city's lights .

Drive From Miami to Key West

Hop in your car and head out to Overseas Highway for a spectacular trip. The drive from Miami to Key West is 150-miles. It is known as one of the "greatest American road trips of all time." There are tons of things to do and see along the way, but probably the most famous is simply driving over the Seven Mile Bridge. Once you get to Key West, visit their famous beaches and go sailing, snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles.

Go on a River Cruise in Mississippi

Hop on board and explore one of the most famous rivers in the U.S. – the Mississippi River. American Cruise Lines  will take you on a luxurious history and culture trip through Mississippi and Ohio aboard two paddlewheeler river boats.  USA River Cruises  also offer different trips. There are plenty of variations, including going from Memphis to Nashville on a ship.

Learn How to Ski in Smuggler’s Notch, Vermont

If you have always wanted to learn how to ski, it's important that you choose the right ski school for you. Smuggler's Notch offers adult ski programs. New skiers can take ski lessons with knowledgeable instructors, explore new terrain and gain confidence on the  slopes . Advanced skiers can work with instructors to advance their skills on the mountain. They offer adult group lessons and adult private lessons. Special programs are also offered, these consist of The Mountain Experience for Skiers and women's programs.

Lake Shore Drive, Illinois

According to  The Travel Channel , "Lake Shore Drive in Chicago is the prettiest extended stretch of urban parkway in America. It's bordered for most of its 15-plus miles by green space, beaches, and Lake Michigan on the east and by a mix of parkland, skyscrapers, and luxury apartments on the west." Make some stops along the way and check out Lincoln Park, the Lakefront Trail, and the  beautiful beaches .

The Kentucky Derby, Louisville

The Kentucky Derby is more than just an annual sporting event , where you watch horses race. It is a "celebration of southern culture and a true icon of America," according to kentuckyderby.com. It's the longest running sporting event in the United States, beginning in 1875. The race is known in the U.S. as "The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports" or "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

Visit SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida

Get up close and personal with animals  at SeaWorld. View dolphins, sea lions, stingrays and flamingos. Educate yourselves in the interactive exhibits, ride roller coasters, watch spectacular shows and treat yourself to  a private buffet  with Shamu.

Visit the National Mall, Washington D.C.

The National Mall is the heart of the nation's capital and of the entire United States. It is where the nation celebrates, honors and demonstrates its commitment to democracy. The National Mall is accompanied by impressive structures, monuments and memorials.

Visit Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls  is one of the world's tallest falls at 2,425-feet. It is made up of three separate falls; the Upper Yosemite Fall, the middle cascades and the Lower Yosemite Fall. If you are up for it, take an all-day hike to the top of the falls for incredible views. Other falls located in Yosemite National Park include Sentinel Falls, Ribbon Fall and Bridalveil Fall.

Go on a Hike in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of trails and is home to over 70 species of mammals and over 260 species of birds. Going on a  hike  is one of the best ways to view the national park. Hike Grinnell Glacier for outstanding views of beautiful  waterfalls  and wildflower meadows. Begin your hike at the Gribbell Glacier Trailhead. The trip is 7.6 miles and you will reach an elevation of 1,840 feet. Also, don't forget to hike the Iceberg Lake Trail and the Highline Trail.

Spend the Night in Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

Take your family to the Georgia Aquarium for one of the best educational and entertaining trips you will ever experience. Kids will love it because they can spend the night (and so can you!); the aquarium offers "Sleepover Programs." You will get entrance to all presentations, guided tours, dinner, breakfast and the chance to sleep right in front of a gorgeous gallery window. Other things to do at the aquarium include  animal encounters  – dolphins, penguins and sea otters.

Georgiaaquarium.org

Drive the Going-To-The-Sun Road in Montana

Drive through  Glacier National Park  and explore the incredible forests, tall mountains, and beautiful valleys on the Going-to-the-sun road. Make sure you stop at Logan Pass — and don't forget your camera.

Explore the Ozark Caverns in Missouri

Missouri is home to thousands of caves, most of which are protected environments. Go on Ozark Caverns tour and view Angel Showers – a never-ending shower of water that seems to come straight out of the ceiling.

Visit Clingmans Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in  Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi, according to  nps . It rises at 6,643 feet. The observation tower is spectacular. It offers incredible views, but climb the steep half-mile walk to the tower at the top for an even better view.

Go Skydiving in Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is the only dropzone in Southern  California  and is the home of the highest tandem jump in the United States. The jump is so high that you are given supplemental  oxygen  on the ride up. Enjoy the spectacular views of California and film your experience. Take it home to remember the moment forever.

https://www.skydivesantabarbara.com/

Visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in Vail, Colorado

The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are open year-round, although their peak flower season is from June to August. Bring your family to experience a variety of exhibits, listen to live music and even share a  romantic  date night at their Painting Workshop. Bring your children to Betty Ford Alpine Gardens for a once in a lifetime experience. They have a Kid's Amphitheatre, Solstice Stones and a hike up the Gore creek to a garden made for children. They also have  waterfalls ,  meditation areas  and Alpine pools.

Visit a Brewery in Vermont

Vermont has the most breweries per capita in any state. According to Travel Like a Local: Vermont , Vermont started to gain recognition as a leading producer of craft beer in the U.S. in the summer of 2009; today there are over 40 breweries operating in the state. Some of the best breweries to visit include Four Quarters, Hill Farmstead, Lost Nation Brewing and Fiddlehead Brewing.

Visit Rainbow Bridge in Arches National Park

Arches National Park  is home to the largest stone arch in the world – Rainbow Bridge. It is approximately 290 feet tall and 42 feet thick at its top point. The bridge is well-known to local native tribes. About 85,000 people from around the world visit each year, according to  nps .

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco offers spectacular skyline views and one of the best places to see them is from the Golden Gate Bridge. The suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate strait between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean is an iconic U.S. landmark. The name is even protected by Streets and Highway Code.

USA Bucket List – 16 Places To See In America Before You Die

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There is so much to do and see in American that a USA bucket list could go on forever. That being said, if you want to make sure you cross off the most important must-see destinations in the country, the list below will get you started.

The USA is best known for high iconic landmarks that have become symbols of the country, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Golden Gate Bridge.

And what about all the amazing natural wonders such as the  National Parks and amazing beaches.

Read on for my list of the top 10 places in the USA that everyone should visit before they die. Plus the most important historic monuments in America.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my  Disclosure for more information.

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Usa bucket list ideas.

There are so many beautiful sites to see while visiting our great nation! You will love this ultimate bucket list of places to see in the USA.

The USA is a diverse country, with many beautiful places to visit.

For this article, I am listing the top 10 cities in America every tourist should see before they leave.

This list includes some of the most well-known attractions and iconic landmarks in each city as well as some hidden gems people might not know about!

Here are the top 10 places everyone should visit at least once in their life.

1. The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most visited landmarks in America. It’s a symbol for the US and a monument to freedom.

This monument was originally built in 1886 and has been standing since then to represent the friendship between France and America

2. New York City

The most populous city in the US that is home to some of the world’s largest skyscrapers (Empire State Building), Times Square which has one of the biggest video screens on Earth, and Central Park which offers visitors more than 800 acres of space for outdoor recreation like jogging or biking.

New York is most known for being the center for business and industry on US soil as well as its numerous famous landmarks such as One World Trade Center , The Chrysler Building , The Empire state building , The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island National Museum which is where many immigrants first stepped foot on US soil.

Along with places to visit you can also find theaters, restaurants & bars such as Times Square , Broadway shows and the infamous Times Square Ball Drop at midnight on New Year’s eve .

Check out my  NYC Bucket List for 85+ Things to Do in New York

3. hollywood.

Known for being one of the most well known centers for filmmaking and hosting celebrities (Walk of Fame).

Since its earliest years, the city has been associated with American cinema and is one of the leaders in producing films.

Hollywood has many attractions including Universal Studios, Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Walt Disney’s Birthplace Home and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

If you are visiting Los Angeles, make sure to check out Hollywood plus the other amazing attractions on my  Los Angeles Bucket List.

4. Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world with casinos, nightclubs and shows.

The food in Las Vegas is some of the best in the World with world-class chefs in residence in many of the hotels and restaurants.

With so much to do in this city it has become a top tourist destination in America.

Don’t forget to visit neighbouring Hoover Dam and The Grand Canyon while on your Las Vegas vacation.

5. San Francisco

San Francisco is one of America’s most diverse cities and also one of the most beautiful.

The city hosts many attractions including Alcatraz Island, China Town, Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, Nob Hill, Pier 39 and Union Square. You can check out the whole list of amazing places to visit with my  Epic San Francisco Bucket List .

6. Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the symbols for San Francisco and was opened to traffic on May 27, 1937.

Many people believe it to be the most beautiful bridge in the world!

This suspension bridge stands at a height of 746 ft and is painted orange/red. It connects San Francisco to Marin County across the Golden Gate Strait.

5) New Orleans

Known as the birthplace of jazz music, the birthplace of Mardi Gras and one of the best food cities in America.

With the French Quarter being known as the most active area in New Orleans it is home to famous restaurants like Arnaud’s and Antoine’s.

The architecture also makes this city stand out with its Spanish-French influence and beautiful buildings in all different colors.

Along Bourbon Street there are many bars that host live jazz bands during Mardi Gras so people can party all night long!

Hot Tip: While you are visiting the Deep South, make sure to spend some time visiting the rest of  Louisiana’s tourist attractions too.

7) Washington D.C.

The capital of the United States is known for its government buildings (White House), monuments, museums and memorials (The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall).

Many famous Americans are buried there including politicians like John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Abraham Lincoln as well as war heroes(John Glenn) and writers such as Mark Twain & Robert Frost.

D.C is one of those places that represents how America came to be through the hard work of our forefathers who were brave enough to strike out on their own despite all of the dangers in an unknown land.

8) Yellowstone National Park

Many people have heard about Yellowstone even if they have never visited the USA.

This national park is located in Wyoming as well as parts of Montana and Idaho.

It covers an area of over 9,600 square miles which makes it the world’s largest protected area inside of one country .

Located within the park is Old Faithful Geyser that shoots water into the air every hour on the hour.

Also there are other huge geysers like Grand Prismatic Spring and Excelsior Geyser that have risen to over 200 feet high!

Not only is this a very popular place for tourists but wildlife seems to love it too with elk, buffalo, mule deer and bison calling it home year round.

9) Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is a 60ft sculpture carved into the side of a mountain in South Dakota.

It depicts four US Presidents (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt & Abraham Lincoln) who were chosen because they set an example of what qualities America should strive towards.

Although Mount Rushmore is really out of the way for most travellers in the USA as it is not close to any of the major cities, it is really worth a visit once in your lifetime.

While you are in the area, make sure to stop by the Crazy Horse Memorial which was started by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948  and never finished due to funding issues.

Me at Mount Rushmore!

10. South Beach, Miami

No USA Bucket List would be complete without some mention of Florida. This amazing state is packed with things to do including Disney World in Orlando and the Everglades National Park.

One must-have spot is South Beach in Miami that boosts gorgeous white sands, impressive art-deco buildings and a fantastic nightlife.

Top 6 Historic Monuments To Visit In The USA

In America, everyone has heard about how they need to see the Statue of Liberty and Mount Rushmore.

But there are many other monuments that are just as important but not nearly as well-known.

Here is a list of 10 historic monuments in the USA every tourist should visit before leaving.

1) The Declaration of Independence

A document written by Thomas Jefferson with what became known as the “self-evident” truths which include life, liberty & pursuit of happiness.

You can find the Declaration of Independence on display at The National Archives Building where you can also find some interesting facts about the founding fathers such as George Washington cutting down his father’s cherry tree.

2) The White House

The Executive Residence in Washington DC  is an essential inclusion on any East coast bucket list.

It holds many events throughout the year such as Easter Egg Rolls & picnics scheduled during summer months with over 30,000 people attending each event.

3) Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

You will find this museum in Skokie (Chicago’s northern suburb ).

Professor Deborah Lipstadt who survived the holocaust herself and wanted to share her story with the public opened it to educate people about the holcaust.

Inside there are thousands of artifacts & records from the Nazi plus parts of Anne Frank’s Diary.

4) Brooklyn Bridge National Monument

A bridge that spans from Manhattan to Brooklyn over East River in New York City – take a stroll over it at it the evening to view Manhattan all its glory.

The bridge was designed by architect John Roebling who died during its construction so his son Washington Roebling continued working on it but sadly passed away as well just a few years later due to decompression sickness (caused by too much pressure being put on his body).

Open since 1883, this is “Americas Favorite Architecture” according to the American Institute of Architects. It is always a favorite on any USA Bucket List.

5) World War II Memorial

This memorial on the National Mall in Washington DC remembers all the military troops that fought in World War II .

The monument was designed by Friedrich St. Florian and has a total area of 53,000 square feet.

The structure itself was built as a half circle with two identical fountains on each side (one representing the Pacific theater and one for the Atlantic theater) along with trees, walkways & benches.

6) Mount Vernon

An estate located on the banks of Potomac River which belonged to George Washington .

As our first President who led us through our independence of America from England this site pays tribute to him and his wife Martha Washington who moved here after he died in 1799.

There are over 70 acres of beautiful gardens & waterfront views that make this trip worth the visit.

USA Bucket List – Final Thoughts

The USA is a land of many opportunities and countless places to explore.

If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, cultural experiences or just a great time with friends then this article should have given you some ideas on the best destinations in America that will suit your interests.

We hope these top attractions inspire you to plan an unforgettable adventure in our country!

It’s never too late to start planning because no matter what season it is there are always new things happening in American cities like Los Angeles & New York City.

More USA Bucket List Ideas

Chicago Bucket List: 65+ Best Things to Do in Chicago

Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List: 125+ Best Places to Visit in USA

The United States is a large country so even those of us that live here have many bucket list places in the US that we have yet to visit.  Whether you live in the US and want to explore more of this amazing country or visiting the US for the first time and need help planning your trip, I’ve created this epic guide containing more than 125 incredible things to see and do in the United States which are perfect for any USA Travel Bucket List .

Some of these must see places I have already visited and recommend and the rest are places that look so beautiful or sound so interesting that I have added them to my personal America travel bucket list. So read on if you are looking for inspiration and ideas for your own US travel bucket list.

USA Travel Bucket List

Alaska Bucket List

• Explore Denali National Park .
• See Mendenhall Glacier , a 13-mile long glacier near Juneau.

Arizona Bucket List

• Take photos at Antelope Canyon. This sandstone slot canyon is made up of two sections (Upper and Lower) and is one of the most instagrammable places in the United States. Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo protected land and is only accessible via guided tours. Click here for more information about tours.

• See Horseshoe Bend , the beautiful natural horseshoe-shaped curve in the Colorado River.  This picture perfect view only requires an easy short 3/4 mile hike each way.

• Visit the Grand Canyon National Park . The famous Grand Canyon is at the top of most American bucket lists. There are many ways to visit the Grand Canyon including hiking, bike tours, mule rides, by helicopter or by small plane .
• Hike to the Wave. Getting a hiking permit is very difficult since only 20 people are allowed each day.  Find out more about how to get a permit and other logistics in this guide to Coyote Buttes North (home to the Wave) here .
• See White Pocket. This lesser known remote natural wonder is a great alternative if you cannot get a permit to the Wave. You need a 4 wheel drive high clearance vehicle or else it is best to book a tour.
• Visit the Arizona desert town of Sedona.
• Visit the city of Flagstaff, surrounded by mountains, desert and pine forests. It is a gateway to the San Francisco Peaks which is  home to Arizona’s tallest mountain (Humphreys Peak).
• Visit the Painted Desert , famous for its striking bands of colors.
• Visit the Petrified Forest National Park.

Arkansas Bucket List

• Hunt for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park . This state park is one of the only places in the world where the public can search for real diamonds – anything you find is yours to keep!

California Bucket List

• Explore San Francisco . Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge and visiting Alcatraz are at the top of my San Francisco bucket list. Read: 2 Days in San Francisco: The Perfect Itinerary (As Written By a Local!)

• Go wine tasting at Napa Valley and Sonoma in Northern California.
• Visit Los Angeles. There are a lot of bucket list things to do in and around LA including hiking to the Hollywood sign, shopping on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Boulevard, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Read: 3 Days in Los Angeles: The Perfect Itinerary
• Have fun at Disneyland.
• Explore Joshua Tree National Park.

• Visit Palm Springs.
• Enjoy sunny San Diego.
• Explore Solvang, a charming historic Danish village.
• Explore Yosemite National Park.
• Visit The Sequoia & Kings Canyon national parks. These adjacent parks are home to the world’s largest trees.
• See giant California redwoods at Redwood National Park .
• Visit Lake Tahoe. Read:   2 Days in Lake Tahoe Summer Itinerary
• Explore Death Valley National Park.
• Take a Pacific Coast Highway road trip along the coast of California which is without a doubt one of the best road trips in the USA . In addition to San Francisco and Los Angeles, some of the best stops along the way include Big Sur, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Cruz, San Simeon, Malibu, Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Newport Beach and Laguna Beach.

Read: California Bucket List: 30 Best Places to Visit in California for more bucket list worthy places to visit in California

Colorado Bucket List

• Visit Denver .
• Explore Rocky Mountain National Park. You can visit on a day trip from Denver .
• Visit the Garden of the Gods , a free park full of red rock formations with great hiking.
• Drive to the top of Pikes Peak .
• See Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park . Several scenic drives in the park offer great views with relatively easy access.
• Visit the Maroon Bells, a reflective lake and two giant snow-striped mountaintops and most photographed place in Colorado.
• See the highest sand dunes in North America at Great Sand Dunes National Park .
• See Pueblo cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park .

Connecticut Bucket List

• Visit the charming town of Mystic .

Florida Bucket List

• Visit Miami. Highlights include Miami Beach, Wynwood Walls and the Little Havana neighborhood. One of the busiest time to visit other than spring break is during Art Basel in December.
• See wildlife at Everglades National Park, the largest designated sub-tropical wilderness reserve on the North American continent.
• Drive from Miami to the Florida Keys on the scenic Overseas Highway (one of the best American road trips ). Read: Weekend in Key West: The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary
• Have fun at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando.
• Swim with manatees in Crystal River. You can visit on a day trip from Orlando .
• Visit St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States.  Read: Weekend in St. Augustine: Perfect 2 or 3 Day Itinerary

Read: Florida Bucket List

Georgia Bucket List

• Visit Atlanta.  Read: 48 Hours in Atlanta: The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary
• Visit the beautiful historic city of Savannah.

Hawaii Bucket List

• Seeing the beautiful Na Pali Coast in Kauai is a must on any Hawaii bucket list. You cannot visit by car. The entire Kalalau Trail is 11 miles long but you can hike the first couple of miles in a day or half a day. If hiking is not your thing, you can also view the Napali coast from helicopter tour or boat tour.

• See the Waimea Canyon in Kauai, a large canyon known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. There are hiking trails but you can enjoy great views from two lookout points.

• Hike to the top at Diamond Head State Monument in Oahu for great views of Honolulu. The 1.5-2 hours round trip hike is not too challenging but go as early as possible in the morning because it gets hot!
• Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu which marks the Japanese attack on the U.S. in World War II.
• Drive the Road to Hana in Maui.
• See a beautiful sunrise or sunset from the top of Haleakala Crater , a dormant volcano and the highest point in Maui. Unless you are visiting on a tour, you will need to make reservations in advance to access the park at sunset. Read: The Perfect Maui Itinerary: How to Spend 5 Days in Maui (As Written By a Local)

Idaho Bucket List

• See the beautiful Shoshone Falls (which are taller than Niagara Falls).
• Soak in one of the many Idaho hot springs .

Illinois Bucket List

• Explore Chicago . Maybe I’m biased because it is my hometown, but Chicago is one of the best cities to visit in the US. There are a lot of bucket list worthy things to do in Chicago : watch a baseball game at historic Wrigley Field, take a selfie in front of the Bean at Millennium Park, take in the amazing views from The Skydeck at Willis Tower and/or 360 CHICAGO, take an architecture cruise on the Chicago River and more! Read:  Best Things to Do in Chicago in the Summer and Most Instagrammable Places in Chicago
• Visit Starved Rock State Park (one of the most popular attractions in Illinois) and the nearby Matthiessen State Park . Both parks have great hikes, stunning sandstone cliffs, canyons and beautiful waterfalls. You can even visit on a day trip from Chicago .

Read: Best Things to Do & Places to Visit in Illinois for more bucket list worthy places to visit in Illinois

Indiana Bucket List

• Visit the the capital city of Indianapolis.

Iowa Bucket List

• See the covered bridges of Madison County .
• Visit the Iowa State Fair. The eleven day fair (August 12-22, 2021) has food, games, rides and competitions, livestock exhibitions, shows, concerts and more.
• Recreate the famous American Gothic painting in front of the original house in Eldon depicted in the painting. Visitors to the American Gothic House are provided with costumes to wear while the staff takes photos in front of the house.

Read :  Beautiful Sunflower Fields in Iowa That You Can Visit

Kansas Bucket List

• Eat BBQ at the famous Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que  in Kansas City.

Kentucky Bucket List

• Visit Louisville during the Kentucky Derby.
• Journey on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

Louisiana Bucket List

• Explore New Orleans.  Visit NOLA during Mardi Gras is a bucket list worthy experience.

Maine Bucket List

• Explore Acadia National Park, a great spot to see the fall foliage in New England.
• Visit Portland, a charming coastal city.

Maryland Bucket List

• Visit Baltimore. See the historic waterfront neighborhood of Fells Point and make sure to try Maryland’s famous crab cakes.

Massachusetts Bucket List

• Visit Boston. Some Boston must dos include walking the Freedom Trail, watching a game at Fenway Park and celebrating St. Patrick’s Day.
• Relax at Cape Cod.
• Learn about the history of the witch trials at Salem.
• Visit Martha’s Vineyard , a tiny island which is a popular summer vacation destination for wealthy East Coast residents.

Michigan Bucket List

• Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .
• Visit historic Mackinac Island. The entire Victorian-themed island is listed as a National Historic Landmark and is car-free so visitors can only explore by foot, bicycle or horse drawn carriage.

Read: Best Places to Visit in the Midwest

Minnesota Bucket List

• Visit Minneapolis-St Paul. Don’t miss the Minnehaha Regional Park (and the stunning Minnehaha Falls).
• Explore the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior .

Mississippi Bucket List

• Explore the Mississippi Blues Trail, nearly 200 trail markers throughout the state including cotton fields, train depots, cemeteries, clubs and churches that tell stories of famous blues artists and significant sites. You can even download an app to help you follow the trail.

Missouri Bucket List

• Enjoy the view from the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
• Eat some of the best BBQ in the country and explore the underrated Kansas City. Read : Weekend in Kansas City: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)

Montana Bucket List

• Explore the beautiful Glacier National Park. One of highlights of the park is driving the famous Going-To-The-Sun Road .

Nebraska Bucket List

• Witness the Annual Sandhill Crane Migration in the spring.
• See Carhedge . This quirky man made attraction built from 38 vintage American cars covered in gray spray paint is a replica of England’s famous Stonehenge.
• Visit Toadstool Geologic Park (referred to as the “badlands of Nebraska”) to see unusual rock formations and fossils.

Read: 7 Cool Things to do in Nebraska

Nevada Bucket List

• Gamble, party, eat and have fun in Las Vegas. Read : Weekend in Las Vegas: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)
• Visit Hoover Dam, a concrete arch-gravity dam on the border between Arizona and Nevada.
• Photograph the Seven Magic Mountains , a temporary art exhibition located in the desert outside of Las Vegas, featuring thirty to thirty-five-foot high day glow totems comprised of painted, locally-sourced boulders.
• Explore the Valley of Fire State Park, full of red rock formations just an hour outside of Vegas. It is also home to the Fire Wave, a smaller version of the famous Wave in Utah/Arizona.

• Admire colorful rock formations at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on several hiking trails or on a 13-mile scenic drive.

New Jersey Bucket List

• Go gambling in Atlantic City, one of the most popular cities in the Jersey Shore.
• Hang out at Liberty State Park and enjoy great views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

New Hampshire Bucket List

• Explore the stunning White Mountains, a mountain range with many hiking spots of all levels.
• Drive Kancamagus Highway , a 34.5 mile scenic drive along Route 112 and one of the best New England drives for fall foliage.

New Mexico Bucket List

• Visit Albuquerque during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , the largest balloon festival in the world.
• Explore Santa Fe.
• Visit Taos.
• Visit White Sands National Monument .

New York Bucket List

• Explore New York City. Read : Weekend In New York City Itinerary
• See Niagara Falls from the US side.

North Carolina Bucket List

• Visit Asheville. One of the highlights is a visit to the historic Biltmore Estate , the largest house in the United States.
• Explore the Outer Banks islands.

North Dakota Bucket List

• Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park .

Read: 7 Reasons North Dakota Should Be On Your Bucket List

Ohio Bucket List

• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum in Cleveland.
• Explore Hocking Hills State Park and view the beautiful sandstone formations and waterfalls.

Oregon Bucket List

• Visit Portland, a city that likes to keep it weird.
• Explore the Columbia River Gorge.  Don’t miss the beautiful Multnomah Falls just a 30 minute drive outside of Portland.

• See Crater Lake National Park .  The highlight is the vivid blue Crater Lake (America’s deepest lake).

Read: Bucket List Places to Visit in the West Coast

Pennsylvania Bucket List

• Visit Philadelphia. Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Eastern State Penitentiary and have a Philly cheesesteak.

Rhode Island Bucket List

• Explore Newport, a beach town known for its lavish mansions from the Gilded Age.

South Carolina Bucket List

• Visit the charming city of Charleston.

South Dakota Bucket List

• Explore Badlands National Park known for its spires and pinnacles.
• See Mount Rushmore National Memorial . This sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore features the heads of four U.S. presidents.

Tennessee Bucket List

• Visit Nashville.
• Visit Memphis. Highlights include Graceland (home of Elvis Presley), Beale Street and the Duck March at the Peabody Hotel .
• Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park and a UNESCO world heritage site which straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. The Appalachian Trail passes through the Great Smoky Mountains for more than 71 miles.
• Walk across Gatlinburg SkyBridge , the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the US for beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains.

Texas Bucket List

• Visit Austin. It is especially popular during South by Southwest (SXSW) Conference & Festivals . Read : Best Things to Do in Austin in One Day
• Visit San Antonio.  The Alamo and the River Walk are the top attractions.
• See the bluebonnets in bloom every spring in Texas Hill Country .
• Explore Big Bend National Park.
• Visit the small quirky town of Marfa .
• Stop at Cadillac Ranch , a public art installation of half-buried Cadillacs on Route 66.

Utah Bucket List

• Visit Salt Lake City.
• Explore Bryce Canyon National Park , known for crimson-colored hoodoos (spire-shaped rock formations).

• Explore Zion National Park .
• Explore Arches National Park , home to the highest density of natural arches anywhere in the world.

• Explore Canyonlands National Park .
• Visit Monument Valley .
• Explore Goblin Valley State Park.
• Take fun perspective pictures at the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Vermont Bucket List

• Do a fall road trip in Vermont to see the beautiful fall foliage.
• Visit the picturesque town of Stowe .

Virginia Bucket List

• Visit Virginia Beach.
• Drive through Shenandoah National Park. Read :  Complete Guide to Shenandoah National Park

Washington State Bucket List

• Visit Seattle.
• Explore Mount Rainier National Park.
• Explore Olympic National Park.
• Explore North Cascades National Park .

Washington, D.C. Bucket List

• Exploring the capital of the United States of America is a must on any USA bucket list. Points of interest include Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and National Mall. The city is especially beautiful (but crowded) during the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring.

Read: Best Places to Visit in the East Coast

West Virginia Bucket List

• See the New River Gorge Bridge. If you are feeling adventurous, you can sign up for bridge walk guided tour where you cross the catwalk under the bridge.

Wisconsin Bucket List

• Visit Milwaukee.
• Relax in Lake Geneva , a lakeside resort city popular with wealthy Chicagoans that built large historic mansions.
• Explore beautiful Door County .
• Explore the Apostle Islands and the sea caves on Lake Superior.

Wyoming Bucket List

• Explore Yellowstone National Park . Full of mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, geysers and wildlife, it is America’s first national park and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include Grand Prismatic Spring (a large hot spring is known for its rainbow effect) and Old Faithful.

• Explore the Grand Tetons .

• Visit Devils Tower National Monument , a 870-foot stone monument and the center of many Indian religious ceremonies.

So there you have it – the ultimate USA travel bucket list .  If there is an experience or place I should include let me know in the comments below!

Need more travel inspiration? Check out some of my other travel bucket lists below:

• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do
• Australian Bucket List: Best Places to Visit in Australia
• Africa Bucket List: 50 Things to Do and Places to Visit
• South America Bucket List: 50+ Things to Do and Places to Visit
• Southeast Asia Bucket List: 100+ Things to Do in SE Asia
• Travel Goals: 100 Things to Do Before You Die
• 10 Hotels That Should Be on Your Bucket List!

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savvyglobetrotter

There are so many places in the USA that I have yet to visit. I love that you put together this list by state, it’s a very easy reference to have. It’s embarrassing that I have been to so many places around the world, but haven’t been to 2 of the 3 places in your Wisconsin list (it is the state I grew up in!).

I love ticking things off bucket lists. US is such a diverse country and going through the places you recommended I have realized I still have so much more to see in this amazing country. So far I checked some in California (L.A., Disneyland and a road trip along the Pacific Coast), Florida (Miami Beach, Florida Keys, Everglades), Louisiana (yes NOLA during Mardi Gras is madness, loved it!!), and New York City! You got me wanting to go again and check out so many other places!

This is a fabulous list! I don’t think we will be venturing too far out of North America and the Caribbean this year, so this post will be very helpful for planning some USA travels. Going to Chicago and Las Vegas later this year so will definitely refer back.

Absolutely shows how much there is in the US of A to explore. I love the national parks there and that all the states have something unique to offer. Love this list – and definitely will come back to it to check a few of those places.

This is such a great list! I don’t think you have missed out on anything at all. I didn’t even know many of these places and now I want to visit them.

Wow, this is an awesome list! So many great options and so fun to see the ones I’ve already seen, like Sedona and the Grand Canyon. There are so many more I want to visit, I’ll have to keep your list handy!

I love traveling and my life partner also loves traveling. Recently we got married and planning to visit all over USA. Your List will be more helpful for us and others also.

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US Bucket List: 50 Things to See & Do in the US Before You Die

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered what the top tourist destinations in the United States are? If you’re looking to start your bucket of things to see in the United States before you die,  take a look at our list of 50 ideas.

View the Best Mexican Restaurants Across America

Getting hungry while you roam the states? View our list of the best Mexican restaurants across the country.

Grand Canyon National Park

20 S Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

The country’s most iconic national park, the Grand Canyon, encompasses over 277 miles.

The Freedom Trail

139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111

This 2.5-mile pathway passes over a dozen American landmarks including Paul Revere’s house and the Bunker Hill Monument.

Niagara Falls State Park

332 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

One of the highest waterfalls in America, Niagara Falls is located near the Canadian border.

Central Park

Manhattan, New York, NY

Stretching from 59th Street to 110th Street in downtown Manhattan, Central Park has been a New York landmark since the 1850s.

Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas, NV

Featuring over 4 miles of upscale hotels and casinos, the Las Vegas Strip is one of the most popular tourist attractions in America.

Grand Ole Opry

2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TV, 37214

Showcasing the country’s best country music since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry features a weekly concert in the heart of Nashville.

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

A landmark from the Texas Revolution, The Alamo is a San Antonio destination to remember.

Kentucky Derby

700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208

Horse racing’s flagship event at Churchill Downs is a classic American sporting event.

French Quarter

New Orleans, LA

Famous for its vibrant nightlife and iconic buildings, Bourbon Street and the French Quarter in New Orleans is known as the home of Mardi Gras.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, WY

With parts spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a bucket list item that you should see in the United States before you die. This park is full of natural wonders like geysers, mountains, and lakes.

Redwood National and State Parks

Northern California

Featuring some of the tallest trees on Earth, the Redwoods in Northern California can live for well over 1,000 years.

Mammoth Cave

1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Truly one of the top things to do in America, Mammoth Cave is one of the world’s largest caves. Try not to get lost!

Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco, CA

The Golden Gate Bridge is over a mile long and is recognized across the world as a symbol of the United States and California.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Featuring two active volcanoes, this national park is one of the main attractions of the Hawaiian Islands.

Overseas Highway

Miami Beach & Key West, FL

Connecting the Florida Keys to the United States mainland, the Overseas Highway allows access to America’s largest area of coral reefs.

Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower

233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

Get a birds-eye view of the Windy City from this breathtaking observation box on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (or, as locals still call it, the Sears Tower).

Indianapolis 500

4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts the Indy 500 every spring, and it’s a bucket list item for fans and non-racing fans alike.

Space Needle

400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

A Seattle landmark, the Space Needle features an observation deck and was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair.

Route 66 Museum

2229 W Gary Blvd, Clinton, OK 73601

Offering a personal journey along the country’s legendary highway, the Route 66 Museum pays homage to the Main Street of America.

Yosemite National Park, CA

A famous destination for work climbers, El Capitan is a 4,000-foot rock formation in Yosemite National Park.

1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

In operation since 1955, Disneyland is the original theme park and continues to be a popular tourist attraction for visitors from around the world.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley, CA

Known for its extreme climate conditions, Death Valley is a desert between California and Nevada.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114

Documenting the history of rock n’ roll, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a popular Cleveland attraction regardless of your taste in music.

Jacob’s Well

1699 Mt Sharp Rd,   Wimberley, TX 78676

One of the most dangerous, yet alluring diving spots in the world, Jacob’s Well is a karstic spring at least 140 feet deep, where divers can explore underwater caves at their own risk.

Vail Ski Resort

Vail, CO 81657

One of the largest ski resorts in America, Vail Ski Resort is a world-class ski destination in the Colorado mountains.

Disney World

Orlando, FL 32830

With four different theme parks, Disney World is one of America’s most popular tourist attractions.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500

The home of the President of the United States has been in use since 1800 and is an iconic American landmark.

Iowa State Fair

3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317

A tradition started in 1854, the Iowa State Fair is held over 11 days in August and attracts over a million people per year.

Fenway Park

4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215

The oldest stadium in Major League Baseball, Fenway Park opened in 1912 and is located in a Boston neighborhood.

Powell’s City of Books

1005 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209

Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore and is a distinguished Portland tourist attraction.

Millennium Park

201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602

Located near The Loop in downtown Chicago , Millennium Park features several famous structures such as “The Bean.”

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465

An open-air theater built into a beautiful Colorado rock structure, Red Rocks is an unforgettable venue for a concert.

Times Square

Manhattan, NY 10036

Famous for its bright lights and crowded streets, Times Square is a major Manhattan intersection that’s been featured in countless movies.

Smithsonian Museums

Washington, DC

The Smithsonian Institute offers over 11 museums and galleries on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

Statue of Liberty

New York, NY 10004

A neoclassical landmark dating back to the 1880s, the Statue of Liberty is a true American bucket list destination.

Hollywood Hall of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

More than 2,500 notable figures are honored on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Nevada, 89005

Assembled during the Great Depression, the Hoover Dam provides power to several states and is toured by over one million people each year.

The Masters Tournament

2604 Washington Rd, Augusta, GA 30904

The most famous golf tournament in the world is held annually at Augusta National Golf Course during the first week of April.

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 344870

Featuring some of the biggest roller coasters in the country, Cedar Point is an amusement park in Ohio that opened over 150 years ago.

Kennedy Space Center

Merritt Island, FL 32899

The Kennedy Space Center in Florida is one of NASA’s main launch centers and includes a massive Visitor Complex.

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Sitting between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, Mackinac Island is famous for its historic dining and boating attractions.

Mall of America

60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425

Complete with roller coasters, aquariums, and around 500 shops, Mall of America is one of the largest malls in the world.

Wrigley Field

1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613

A classic baseball experience on Chicago’s north side, Wrigley Field has been in operation since 1914.

Zion National Park

Springdale, UT 84767

Known for its iconic steep red cliffs, Zion National Park in Utah contains beautiful rock formations along a river.

The Gorge Ampitheatre

754 Silica Rd NW, George, WA 98848

Located in a scenic mountain range, The Gorge is often voted one of the best outdoor music venues in the world.

Empire State Building

20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001

Construction on this historic skyscraper began in 1930, and it continues to be a symbol of the Big Apple.

AT&T Stadium

1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011

Home of the Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is the biggest professional football stadium in the country and the best place to catch an NFL game.

Northern Lights

Visible from many places in the beautiful state of Alaska, the Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible phenomena.

Wine Country

Northern Bay Area, CA

One of the premier wine-growing regions in the world, Wine Country in California is a bucket list experience for tourists worldwide.

Badlands National Park

South Dakota

With dramatic rock formations and canyons, Badlands National Park is one of the best natural parks in the country.

So, what’s on your bucket list of things to do across America? Let us know in the comments below!

About Author

Michael Malaychuk

Michael is a freelance writer from Chicago with a background in the accounting and entertainment industries. He has written about sports, music, real estate, things to do in Chicago, and more. Some of Michael’s favorite topics to write about on UrbanMatter.com are restaurants, events, music, and pop culture.

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9 places in America you have to see in your lifetime

Americans are starting to take more vacations, but you don't need to go far or even have a passport to see amazing things. From natural attractions to historic sites, these nine places across the U.S. are so awe-inspiring, they're perfect for a Great American bucket list trip.

1. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is famous for its ancient red-rock canyons, which have more than 70 hiking trails , cliffs and forests to trek, including famous Cathedral Rock, known for its towering monoliths, and Devil's Bridge Trail.

The city is also known for its spirituality. Lore has it that Native Americans used to go there to heal, and that's helped Sedona become a popular place for yoga retreats and health and wellness trips. (Locals are quick to attest that Sedona is full of strong energy points called "vortexes" and the area has a large population of psychics ).

Whether you believe or not, the layered red and orange rock formations unique to Sedona are magical.

Most parks have entrance fees that are no more than $9. Cathedral Rock is $5.

Some visitors do day trips from Phoenix (two hours by car).

2. French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana

Also know as "Vieux Carre," the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, dates back to the early 1700s and centuries of French, Spanish and Southern culture merge here. The 78-square block area is known for its architecture, food and traditions (like Mardi Gras), and tourists come in droves for the well-preserved buildings, jazz clubs and historic restaurants like Arnaud's, as well as famous attractions, like Jackson Square, Cafe Du Monde and the haunted Lalaurie Mansion.

The streets are lively during the day with tourists on foot, bikes or in mule-drawn carriages, and musicians play on street corners; by night, revelers crowd the Quarter, including famed Bourbon Street, for late-night partying. Bars are open 24 hours every day and there is an open-container law allowing people to drink alcohol on the streets.

Free Tours By Foot offers two-hour walking tours of the French Quarter, where you can pay whatever you like.

3. Mount Rushmore, Keystone, South Dakota

Constructed in 1927, Mount Rushmore National Memorial took 14 years to carve and, since its debut in 1941, has become iconic in America.

The massive, 60-foot high granite faces of past presidents, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt, was mostly carved during the Great Depression for nearly $1 million.

Mount Rushmore is in the Black Hills, about 30 minutes southwest of Keystone, South Dakota, and about 3 million people visit the sculpture every year. Near Mount Rushmore is Badlands National Park, about 1.5 hours away, known for hiking and camping.

Mount Rushmore is free to visit but there is a $10 parking fee (you can only get to the attraction by car or bus). It's open every day of the year except Christmas, from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

4. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is America's oldest national park, established in 1872, with rocks dating back more than 2 million years. It also sits atop the largest supervolcano in America, which produces more than 500 beautiful geysers (like the famous Old Faithful, shooting water up to 200 feet high), hot springs and steam pools the park is known for.

But don't miss the nearby Grand Prismatic Spring, just seven miles away from Old Faithful. Hypnotizing and surreal, it's the largest hot spring in America and the third largest in the world, at 370 feet long and 121 feet deep. The spring is known for radiating vibrant, otherworldly orange- and yellow-colored rings formed around the rainbow-colored waters.

The natural wonder is one of the park's most photographed sights. It's free to visit but Yellowstone requires a seven-day park pass that costs $30.

5. Miami and Key West, Florida

Miami is chockablock with luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs, but its Art Deco District has the largest collection of Art Deco buildings in America, with about 800 historically significant structures in a 125-square block area. The classic styles of 1920s to 1930s Art Deco architecture can feel like a time warp with its pastel facades, curved corners, portholes, glass blocks and terrazzo floors. Art Deco also frequently features geometric fountains or statues. Boutique hotels that line famed Ocean Drive in South Beach (known for bright and retro neon signs) are well preserved Art Deco jewels, like The Celino South Beach, Clevelander Hotel and The Betsy.

Miami is also known for cultural neighborhoods, like Little Havana, which feels like a slice of Cuba in America (Miami is home to the largest Cuban population outside Cuba, with more than a million Cuban Americans out of Miami-Fort Lauderdale- West Palm Beach's 5.6 million population). Little Havana Food and Walking Tour is one of the top global food experiences, according to TripAdvisor.

Go further south for Key West in the Florida Keys, where time stands still. It's the southernmost point of the continental U.S., and completely isolated, having served as the furthest hideaway retreat for famous authors, like Truman Capote and Ernest Hemingway. It's kitschy, retro, campy and bohemian, where locals and visitors alike walk barefoot along the 7-square-mile island that's full of 19th century built homes in Caribbean colors, open-air restaurants and bars and cheap bed and breakfasts.

6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

In Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park sprawls 1,900 square miles, known for towering canyons with peaks and cliffs providing immense views, from Mather Point to Yavapai Observation Station, herds of bison and camping under a starry sky. The natural wonder has one of the most recognizable landscapes in America. Nearly 5 million people a year drive in by car or bus tour, or you can take helicopter tours from Las Vegas. Go hiking, river rafting, horseback riding and biking.

Skywalk, a 70-foot glass walkway 4,000 feet above the Colorado River, opened in 2007 in Grand Canyon West.

Grand Canyon is also a popular destination for camping. There are three campgrounds, including the popular Mather Campground on the South Rim open year round. Fees are $18 per night.

Entrance fee to the park is $30 per private vehicle. Admission is for seven days.

7. Grand Central Terminal, Manhattan, New York

New York City is chockfull of renowned attractions, like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Times Square and Empire State Building, all of which you can see in a day. One of the most popular tourist sites is Grand Central Terminal , a stunning, historic landmark and one of the most famous train stations in the world. Opened in 1871 (to the public in 1913), it's also one of New York's oldest landmarks (Empire State Building, 1931; Brooklyn Bridge, 1883; Statue of Liberty, 1886).

The terminal is architecturally impressive with soaring ceilings, Roman-triumphal-arch-inspired facades, Corinthian columns, arched windows and the famous clock. It's cavernous and elegant (chandeliers glimmer in the waiting area), with marble walls and a twinkling, fiber-optic ceiling.

More than 750,000 people pass through Grand Central every day. It's free to visit.

8. Hollywood sign and the Sunset Strip, Hollywood, California

The iconic Hollywood sign in Hollywood, California, is a symbol of Tinseltown, laying cultural root in Los Angeles and seen in countless movies, TV shows and music videos. There's no other city in America with a 352-foot long sign perched high in the hills welcoming visitors.

Many tourists get up close and personal. Travelers can hike to the actual Hollywood sign every day of the year through various authorized hiking trails. The sprawling city views from the sign are breathtaking. There is no fee.

While you're here, cruise down the Sunset Strip, one of America's most famous streets, known for its countless billboards and entire building walls advertising movies, TV, music and sports. The legendary street since the 1920s is also home to iconic places like Whiskey A Go Go, Sunset Tower and Chateau Marmont.

9. Bioluminescent Bay, Vieques, Puerto Rico

There is a handful of known bioluminescent bays in the world (Vietnam, Cayman Islands, Australia), with two right here in the U.S., like San Juan Island in Washington, reachable by ferry. But the bioluminescent bay at Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Puerto Rico, is the most well known, and it's the brightest due to low light pollution.

When travelers go on a dark night with a tour guide (avoid days around and on a full moon), they can get in the water and swim with microscopic sea life called dinoflagellates. These plankton light up when they are disturbed, so running your hands and feet through the water leaves a trail of light. In fact, when you move underwater, it will appear that your body is glowing.

The conditions have to be right for this incredible natural phenomenon to occur, and it's not easily captured on camera, so don't expect to take photos. Tours are $54 per person.

Don't miss:

100 Best Places To Visit In the USA Before You Die

Undoubtedly, the USA’s unique and breathtaking landscape is one of the best in the world!

From its notable city attractions like Times Square and Central to its unique and magical natural landscapes in California, Utah, and Arizona, you can’t help but marvel at their beauty.

Here is a list of the 100 best places to visit in the USA before you die that you can embark on one by one!

Key Takeaways:

• Some notable tourist attractions in the USA are Time Square, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and 360 Chicago Observation Deck.
• The most famous places in the USA are Brooklyn Bridge, Devil’s Tower, and Niagara Falls.
• The most unique places to visit in the USA are Yosemite National Park, The Antelope, The Wave, and Yellowstone National Park.

Don’t forget to Pin this image for your future reference!

Top Tourist Attractions in the USA

1. times square.

Do you love shopping and roaming around? If yes, Times Square in New York is the perfect place for you! Join thousands of pedestrians, tour shops and restaurants, or even watch a Broadway show. What’s notable about Times Square are the digital billboards and signs that fill up the energy of the space, making it one of the most famous places in the USA.

2. Statue of Liberty

Once you are in the US, especially in New York, the Statue of Liberty is one of the sculptures you shouldn’t miss! Towering the New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is a world icon that symbolizes hope and freedom. Take the chance to see the statue up close and walk inside it up to the crown level.

3. Central Park

As one of the most popular landscape parks in the world, Central Park is truly a gem of New York City. It serves as a breather to the busy vibe of the metro, with yoga classes, bike tours, picnics, and pedicab tours to join in. Take advantage of the horse and carriage tour, bringing you to some of the most notable attractions in Manhattan.

4. 360 Chicago Observation Deck

If you want the best and the most breathtaking views of Chicago, experience that with 360 Chicago Observation Deck , 94 stories above! Experience their Tilt activity, where you’ll be tilting over the edge of a glass-supported mechanism. Alternatively, you can chill and grab a drink at CloudBar while taking in Chicago’s panoramic views.

5. Lincoln Memorial

Honoring the best president Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC is an iconic memorial worth visiting! Just at the end of the National Mall, gaze over the famous 19-ft statue of Abraham Lincoln and his speeches.

6. Golden Gate Bridge

Claiming to be one of the world’s most beautiful bridges, the 2700+-m Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see in San Francisco! This iconic bridge also holds the world record for the longest span for a bridge. And it is not just a beautiful bridge. Still, you can engage in activities like hiking, biking, walking, and even shopping.

7. Madison Square Garden

At least once in your life, you get to experience watching events and concerts in the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden in New York; that’s a good achievement! 

8. Washington Monument

One of the highlights of your Washington DC trip is to see and take pictures of the 555-ft white marble obelisk giving tribute to late President George Washington. For a heightened experience, take the elevator to reach the topmost floor, which happens to be an observation deck.

9. Field Museum of Natural History

If you want to see giant dinosaur fossils fully assembled, or artifacts dated million years old, head over to the Field Museum of Natural History in Illinois! More than the regular exhibits, there are also a lot of ticketed exhibitions that will surely entertain you, including 3D watching, hands-on areas for kids, and many more. 

10. Walt Disney World Resort

Nothing beats the experience in the world’s largest and most famous Disney park , Disney World, in Florida! I am sure you and your kids will surely love it! Go over the most famous attractions like Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Typhoon Lagoon, Animal Kingdom, Nemo the Musical, and a lot more fun.

11. Empire State Building

Did you know that 3,400 men helped build the Empire State Building? That’s a lot? Let’s add the Empire State Building to your bucket list! As one of the top tourist attractions in the USA, and the skyscrapers in the whole world stand with 105 stories, it’s a good travel stop in New York. Take the elevator to the 82nd or the 102nd floor to reach the observatory for a panoramic view of New York.

12. Navy Pier

One of the most enormous piers in the world, along the shorelines of Michigan Lake, lies the Navy Pier! It’s an entertainment hub with rides, games, museums, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, summer fireworks, and restaurants. Book your hotel at Sable at Navy Pier, with amazing pier views.

13. Gateway Arch

I bet you’ll be amazed by the Gateway Arch towering over the skyline of St. Louis in Missouri at 630 feet. And believe it or not, the steel arch is not just an architectural marvel but also an accessible building, making it one of the top tourist attractions in the USA.

14. San Antonio RiverWalk

The beating heart of Texas, the San Antonio Riverwalk could be one of spring’s busiest and most celebrated venues. With lots of happenings within the riverwalk, like festive river parades, artisan markets, diverse food stalls, and restaurants, you’ll have fun there.

15. Kennedy Space Center

If you’re wondering where NASA usually launches its space rockets, it’s typically at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, and you can visit the space center anytime. Especially with those of you who are space lovers, I know you’ll enjoy seeing actual rockets and spacecraft, space simulators, interactive exhibits, and meeting NASA astronauts.

16. Hoover Dam

For just $30, you can tour the concrete arch-gravity dam Hoover Dam in Colorado! You can experience riding an elevator to the top of Hoover Dam, walking through the dam system tunnels, and getting a beautiful view of the Colorado River.

17. Mall of America

If you’ve had enough of the mini-malls in your hometown, there’s a high chance of you not just liking but loving the huge 4-level Mall of America in Bloomington. Prepare your finances, shop all you want from the 520 stores available, and dine in restaurants you have never experienced. It also has theme parks, aquariums, and cinemas, perfect for families.

18. Space Needle

Experience your most iconic climb on Seattle’s 605-ft tall futuristic-designed Space Needle. It lets you experience the best 360-degree views of Seattle. Don’t hesitate to experience the Loupe, a revolving glass floor 500 ft above ground level, for a thrilling adventure.

19. Universal Studios Hollywood

It’s fulfilling to explore one of California’s most fantastic theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can enjoy more or less 19 rides and attractions. These include character sightings, Harry Potter and the Hidden Journey, Jurassic World the Ride, Fast and Furious, Despicable Me, and more.

20. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

We can’t deny that MET in New York is one of the top tourist attractions in the USA because of how much art can be seen and appreciated inside. Apparently, it is one of the largest art museums in the world, decorating millions of art from all over the world! 

21. Hollywood

Are you a Hollywood fan? Don’t wait and go to one of the world’s most prominent places for movies and television shows, Hollywood in LA, California. Explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame or take a selfie with the Hollywood sign!

22. Joshua Tree National Park

If you’re looking for the best spot for stargazing, Joshua Tree National Park in California is a good choice! The park is two hours away from the nearest city. Hence, light pollution is minimal, and you can see numerous constellations, planets, and a vast portion of the Milky Way Galaxy. More than stargazing activity, seeing the peculiar-looking trees with one trunk and three to nine main branches is fantastic.

Want some exhilarating date with your love? Try Epcot in Disney World in Florida! It is one of the best places in the US for couples, where you can enjoy many rides and attractions like Spaceship Earth, the Land Pavilion, World Showcase Entertainment, Epcot Festivals, and Future World.

24. The White House

It’s general information that the White House in Washington is the US president’s home and workplace. Still, it’s also the people’s house so you can tour inside. Book tours in advance so you can admire the iconic exterior architecture, explore Lafayette Square for a look at the statues and memorials, and the White House Visitor Center for some exhibits and interactive displays.

25. Brooklyn Bridge

Get amazed by the steel wire design for the suspension cables of Brooklyn Bridge! For a better experience, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and appreciate the river and the Manhattan skyline for free. Get to the bridge early morning or night to avoid the crowds.

If you’re looking for the best spot for stargazing, Joshua Tree National Park is a good choice! The park is two hours away from the nearest city. Hence, light pollution is minimal, and you can see numerous constellations, planets, and a vast portion of the Milky Way Galaxy. More than stargazing activity, seeing the peculiar-looking trees with one trunk and three to nine main branches is fantastic.

26. Grand Central Terminal

If you think that all you can admire in Grand Central Terminal in New York are the number of platforms, tracks, and architecture, there’s so much more than that! Explore the various shops and stores, the Vanderbilt Hall for exhibits and special events. 

The Grand Central is also an excellent food hub. You must try the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant and a few culinary delights from particular vendors.

27. Millenium Park

Known for its iconic art installations like “Cloud Gate” and “The Crown Fountain,” Millenium Park is one of the most vibrant green public parks in Chicago, Illinois, for you to experience. Given its prime location, you can have a leisurely walk and see the stunning views of Lake Michigan, the Michigan skyline, and the Art Institute of Chicago. You can even attend outdoor events and festivals in this eminent public park!

28. Georgia Aquarium

Dive into an unforgettable aquatic adventure at Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia! You can experience an up-close encounter with many sea animals like penguins, sea otters, belugas, dolphins, and sea lions. For a chance to sleep with aquatic animals, inquire about their ‘Sleep Under the Sea’ experience for a minimum of $105.99.

29. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Shout out to all rock and rollers! Let’s celebrate the music industry’s legacy by visiting the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in downtown Cleveland Ohio. Learn the history, notable artists, artifacts, memorabilia, and more from its exhibits, educational programs, and workshops. 

30. Ellis Island

The “Gateway to America,” Ellis Island in New York Harbor, is the portal for millions of immigrants trying to enter the land of opportunities. One notable attraction you must set foot in is the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, narrating the story of immigrants through photos, exhibits, and artifacts. 

31. Everglades

I bet you’d see some in Everglades, Florida, if you haven’t seen a panther or alligators! The wildlife in this diverse ecosystem in Florida is genuinely remarkable. You’ll stumble upon various animals, including crocodiles, alligators, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, and birds. 

32. Mackinac Bridge

One of the most iconic landmarks with an incredible engineering design in Michigan, Mackinac Bridge is a must-visit! As the bridge connects the two peninsulas of Michigan, it also connects their cultural differences. Once you get to the bridge, you’ll see the most lovely views of Michigan, overlooking its natural environment and the Great Lakes. 

33. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Home to the world’s oldest mountains, dated 300 million years ago, with a large diversity of flora and fauna, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is one of the top tourist attractions in the USA! Requiring you to pay nothing, you can explore miles and miles of streams, hiking trails, and 90+ historic structures.

Most Famous Places in the USA

34. molokai, hawaii.

Would you like to see and hike some of the tallest cliffs worldwide? Cave in on the northern sea cliffs of the Hawaiian beauty, Molokai! Head over to the Palaau State Park or the Kalaupapa National Historical Park to start your hiking adventures and climb the challenging 4,000 ft high cliffs.

35. Devils Tower

The Devil’s Tower in Wyoming offers lots of adventurous activities that you can enjoy, like having nature walks where you can see stunning wildlife. You can also participate in ranger-guided tours to explore the natural geological formations. 

36. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls in New York State is one of the most famous places in the USA. From the observation tower down to the Mist boat tour, you can see the majestic beauty of Niagara Falls. You can also explore the Cave of the Winds for a thrilling yet fun activity. 

37. Alcatraz

If you visit Alcatraz, you can experience the surreal views of San Francisco’s skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. You can also see and take a self-guided audio tour of the famous federal prison and learn the place’s rich history. 

38. Badlands National Park

It’s time to explore the hidden wonders of Badlands National Park in South Dakota! There are several fun and exciting activities, like hiking and stargazing. Moreover, Badlands has a visitor center where you learn the history of fossils in the area.

39. Santa Monica

Santa Monica in California offers a variety of fun-filled activities, from their majestic beach to their lively Santa Monica Farmers Market, where you can have the taste of their local dishes like freshly squeezed juices, fresh seafood, and locally grown fruits and vegetables, or you can stroll around the pier using bike rentals.

40. Venice Beach

Get your perfect tanned skin in Venice Beach in LA! Many fun activities are waiting for you. Watch several performers alongside the beach, and you may also enjoy the colorful boardwalk or take a stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard for a shopping galore at their local boutiques. 

Malibu, California, is full of peace and beauty; that’s unarguable! You can enjoy several crystal clear beaches like Surfrider Beach and Zuma Beach. After enjoying the beach, you can go hiking in Solstice Canyon; for art lovers, you can also drop by the Getty Villa. Lastly, enjoy the local restaurants in the area. 

42. Mount Rushmore

In Mount Rushmore of South Dakota, you can see an up-close view of the monumental sculpture of the four US presidents; aside from that, be amazed by the natural formation of rocky trails and participate in a guided tour. Lastly, come and drop by the Licon Borglum to learn the history of the place. 

43. White Sands National Park

Sledding down the gypsum, hiking at the dune trails, and stargazing are some of the most notable activities in White Sands National Park in New Mexico. You can also ride to explore the area’s beauty but remember to bring your water and sunscreen.

44. Liberty Bell

Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is a perfect place for those who love learning, especially the history of the US. Liberty Bell is one of the most famous places in the US because it symbolizes freedom; you can learn a lot from the place by exploring the American Revolution exhibits. 

45. Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde offers several activities that you can enjoy. Register for a guided tour of the Cliff Palace and Balcony house for an unforgettable experience. You can also wander through the ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the colorful and rich history of the Puebloan people.

46. Grand Teton

If you are looking for an adventure-filled vacation, the Grand Teton in Wyoming is the perfect place; take a hike with the picturesque trails or even go on a boat trip on Jenny Lake. Lastly, you can go camping on the camping grounds.  

47. Temple Square

Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah, is where history and beauty collide. It is a perfect place to visit for those interested in the history of Latter-day Saints. You can also watch a live performance from the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir or explore the lively and lush gardens and fountains of Salt Lake City Temple. 

48. National Mall

Explore the historical landmarks in the National Mall of Washington DC, like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, and you can also go for a museum date at one of the Smithsonian Museums of Natural History and the Air and Space Museum. 

49. Magic Kingdom Park

Relive your childhood dreams as you visit the Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. It is a perfect place for tourists traveling with kids because it offers many activities they will enjoy, like Meeting your favorite Disney characters while on their magical parade. You can also visit Cinderella Castle and Pirates of the Caribbean. 

50. The Palouse

If you ought to see some unique landscape you’ve probably never seen before, The Palouse in Washington State has something for you! With its gently rolling wheat-covered hills which are green in color in spring, and turn brown during summer ready for harvest. 

51. Waikiki

Get your perfect tanned skin on Waikiki Beach in Honolulu and enjoy water activities like surfing and paddle boarding. You can also roam along the shopping and dining districts at Kalakaua Avenue. Finally, stroll around the historical sites of the Waikiki Trails. 

52. Pike Place Market

Never missed visiting the OG market of Seattle, the Pike Place Market! The market is home to many restaurants, eateries, and specialty food shops where you can buy delicious treats, fresh produce, and seafood. There are also retail shops, a crafts market, and a couple of street performers and entertainers. Ultimately, you’ll get the best Elliott Bay views since the market is at the waterfront!

53. Kilauea

Kilauea is known for its volcanoes, so the attractions you can explore are related to anything volcanic! These include the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Crater Rim Drive, the Thurston Lava Tube, and the Chain of Craters Road. 

Want something more interesting? Dine at the Volcanoes House, which offers breathtaking views, and educate yourself through the Volcano Observatory. 

54. Mt. Rainier

Admire the stunning glaciated peak of Mt. Rainier in Seattle, towering at 14,000 feet! This mountain is an active volcano that hasn’t erupted for hundreds of years and is considered dangerous. Yet still, it is one of the best mountains in the state where you can hike, climb, and camp.

55. Carlsbad Caverns

If you want to see and experience being in one of the longest and deepest caves in the US, Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico is the perfect place! The guided tours show you many stunning things like stalactites and stalagmites. It is also worth checking the King’s Palace and Big Room.

56. Denali National Park

Have firsthand experience with the diverse wildlife of Denali National Park , and you can see different types of animals like Moose, grizzly bears, and many more. You can also have a bus tour to see the scenic views of the rugged Alaskan wilderness.

57. Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offers a unique diving experience where you can see the abundance of vibrant corals and reefs and go fishing. Visit Everglades National Park and have a taste of their fresh kinds of seafood delights.

58. Big Sur

Big Sur in California is one of the best places to visit in the USA for couples because of its many thrilling yet romantic outdoor activities and attractions to participate in. Relax, enjoy the picturesque beaches and coastal walks, and engage with camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, and kayaking. See the Bixby Creek Bridge, the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and the Scenic Highway 1.

59. Ashville

If you like peaceful city exploration and lovely outdoor adventures, spend your summer in Asheville, North Carolina! Visit one of the American treasures, the Biltmore Estate, buy something from black-operated businesses, try out some yoga hikes, and enjoy a few of the favorite outdoor activities like bellyaching, canyoneering, racing zip lines, hiking, rafting, and biking. 

60. Kissimmee

The largest city of Osceola County in central Florida, Kissimmee is the capital of theme parks in Florida, and not talking about just ordinary but the biggest and most popular in the world! Get ready for the adrenaline rush on theme parks like LEGOLAND Florida Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Seaworld Parks & Resorts, and Walt Disney World.

61. Savannah

Savannah is one of the best cities in Georgia that can give you a unique tourism experience–from its architecture, vibrant culture, tours, and charming landscapes. Experience the Old Town Trolley tours, the Old Savannah tours, and the Savannah riverboat cruises. Other popular Savannah destinations are Tybee Island, Hilton Head Island, St. Simons Island, and River Street. 

62. Coney Island

Coney Island in New York is one of the tourist places in the USA where you can enjoy many attractions! From riding the Cyclone rollercoaster and Deno’s Wonder Wheel to leisurely strolling the Coney Island Boardwalk, there is something for you. After engaging with rides and taking a long walk, stop at Nathan’s famous hot dogs for burgers, fries, and refreshing milkshakes.

63. Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Feed your appetite and your shopping desires at Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston! Eat at the Quincy Food Market with over 30 food carts composed of world cuisines, shop at local shops like Sephora and Ann Taylor, and take a sightseeing tour with their hop-on-and-off buses and trolleys. 

64. Fremont Street, Las Vegas

Just downtown in Las Vegas, Fremont Street is truly an entertainment hub with lots of music, dancing LED lights, street performances, and other forms of entertainment. Visit the Mob Museum, and Neon Museum, play arcade games, and play at some of the most popular casinos like Golden Nugget and Four Queens.

See the best things to do in Las Vegas .

65. The Strip, Las Vegas

Vegas isn’t a city; it’s its own magical world! More than Fremont Street, The Strip is the epicenter of the city’s entertainment with casinos, fine dining, resorts, shopping centers, and all other glam. Also, watch a few of the best Las Vegas shows on the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil. 

66. Napali Coast

Nothing is more dramatic than the coastlines of Napali Coast in Hawaii, with its rugged cliffs and resounding waterfalls soaring next to the ocean! There are many ways you can catch sight of this beautiful Hawaiian coast—helicopter tour around the islands, sailing and snorkelling from Port Allen, sunset dinner cruise, and a full-day island sightseeing tour with an experienced local tour guide. 

Most Unique Places To Visit in the US

67. yellowstone national park.

Isn’t it amazing to witness a geyser sprouting out thermal water up to 300 feet? And what more if there are 500 of them! Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is a hotspot for hot loads of geysers and hydrothermal-like hot springs, towering canyons, lush forests, and wildlife.

68. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park in California is a stockpile of prodigies of nature— from over 500 giant sequoia trees to over 25 majestic waterfalls; it feels like you’re in another dimension. Making it more magical, there are various cliff points like the Sentinel Dome, where you can get an unbelievable 360-degree view of Yosemite. 

69. Kauai, Hawaii

A long-standing Hollywood setting, Kauai in Hawaii is truly a “garden island” and one of the unique places to visit in the US for shedloads of natural beauty—canyons, coconut coasts, beaches, mountains, cliffs, waterfalls, and so much more.

70. The Wave, Arizona

Tracing back to the Jurassic Age of Rock, there’s no reason for you not to witness the ocean wave-like geological sandstone formations of The Wave in Arizona! Take a hike on the most beautiful 90 minutes of your life, where you can see firsthand the dinosaur footprints, the geologic arches, and the well-formed windows.

71. Rocky Mountains National Park

There’s no better place to hike the mountains of the US than the most extensive mountain range system of Rocky Mountains National Park in Colorado! It is one of the unique places to visit in the US for its hiking trails, dream-like lakes, wildlife viewing, and camping experiences.

72. French Quarter

The French Quarter in New Orleans is one of the top tourist attractions in the USA that draws people year after year. But why? People go to the French market with eateries, historical sites, museums, and high-quality local restaurants.

73. Chimney Rock

The USA is known for a lot of sandstone formations. Chimney Rock is one of the most distinctive and quirky because of its vertical-like shape towering over Nebraska. Surrounding the rock mountain involves many activities— must-try hiking trails of Hickory Nut Falls Trail and Rocky Broad RiverWalk; try the rides at Chimney Rock Country Fair; and explore the Chimney Rock State Park. 

74. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Although scary, one of the best things to see before you die is active volcanoes up close, and the place to do that is in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Here you can look over two of the world’s most erupting volcanoes— the Kilauea and Maura Loa. 

75. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the most picturesque canyons worldwide in the US, famous for its red rocks formed a million years ago. If you’re a true-blood explorer, you can try out exciting outdoor activities like camping, driving near the canyon, riding a train, a mule, or a helicopter, or hiking in the Grand Canyon. 

The highlight of a trip to the Grand Canyon would be spending time at the U-shaped glass-built Grand Canyon Skywalk to get the best panoramic views. 

76. Glacier National Park

The land of glaciers, Glacier National Park in Montana, is a paradise that you must sightsee before you die. Be in love with its pristine turquoise lakes, lush forests with wildlife, and magnificent view of the melting glaciers of the mountains through the Going-to-the-Sun Road’s scenic drive. To experience the best of Glacier National Park, hike the whole place, take a boat tour, or ride the red bus!

77. Lake Tahoe

This two-million-year-old lake on the California and Nevada border is one of the most beautiful freshwater lakes in the US and the largest alpine lake! More than its beauty, you can enjoy over ten ski/snowboard resorts and over 800 hiking trails, so there’s never a dull moment when you visit Lake Tahoe.

78. Olympic National Park

Hands down to the most diverse national park in the whole US! The Olympic National Park in the State of Washington is a showcase of a multitude of ecosystems, natural resources, and wildlife combined. Take in the thousands of miles of sparkling rivers, numerous mountain glaciers, rain forests, pristine lakes, and ecological wilderness. 

79. Sedona Arizona

Never stop hiking Arizona’s beautiful red rock formations, and never miss out on Sedona! Experience the best hike of your life and try to feel the energy the rock buttes give you. Aside from hiking, you can also bike, rock climb, and watch the beautiful sunset on top of red rocks. 

80. Texas Hill Country

Head over to the wine land of the US! When you visit the Texas Hill Country, one thing you should never miss is going over the 60 unique wineries in the region. Try out their most famous grape varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. 

Aside from wineries, explore the unique nature, such as the millions of Austin Bats flying around, and swim in the holes of Hamilton Pool Preserve in Dripping Springs and Blue Hole in Wimberley.

81. Great Sand Dunes National Park

A visit to the Great Sand Dunes National Park is an experience you’ll never forget! On the stunning sandy landscape of Colorado, you can try sand sledding, camping, lodging, and swimming on Medano Creek. At night, you can see and hear the best night sky of your life, where you can clearly see the Milky Way Galaxy.

82. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Enjoy camping with family or friends in one of the 21 Apostle Islands in Wisconsin. The island is a show-off of beautiful pristine beaches, magnificent sea caves, and towering cliffs all over the place. 

83. Kanab, Utah

Just north of The Grand Canyon State, Arizona, Kanab is also a state filled with beautiful slot canyons in Buckskin Gulch and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and national parks like Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where you can enjoy riding dirt bikes and ATVs. 

84. Oracle, Arizona

Oracle is one of the beauties of Arizona that you shouldn’t miss, especially when you want to get the best stargazing experience! In its Oracle State Park, you can get the best astronomical night sky view, especially during a new moon or twilight.

85. Lookout Mountain, Georgia

Do you think it’s possible to see all seven states at once? Georgia says yes to that! Above the Lookout Mountain is the Rock City Point, where you can see all US states of Georgia, Kentucky, Alabama, Tennessee, Virginia, and North and South Carolina. Aside from that, there are stunning views of gardens, Ruby Falls, and the famous Incline Railway.

86. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Mammoth Cave in Kentucky is one of the caves in the world worth visiting. Not because you can find relics of the prehistoric mammals called Mammoths but mainly because of the “mammoth” size of the cave spanning 400 miles long. In fact, it’s the longest in the world!

87. Fly Geyser, Nevada

If you want more than ordinary nature walks, try the Fly Geyser tours in Nevada! This tour is unique because you can see three large travertine mounts of geyser cones spewing thermal water up to five feet in the air. What makes it more interesting is its picture-perfect red and green colors that are jaw-dropping in actual sight. 

88. Mono Lake, California

Mono Lake in California is one of the most unique lakes in the world that you must see before you die! Why? Mono Lake has no water outlet, unlike typical lakes, so it’s naturally stagnant. What makes it more stunning is its rich bluish tone due to the microscopic algae called Artemis Monica living in the upper water. 

89. Glass Beach, California

Not your typical beach experience, Glass Beach in California should be included in your bucket lists! To set things straight, the pieces of glass on Glass Beach are not natural occurrences but man-made, and the main reason was residents were just getting rid of their household items and dumping them there. But overall, still, a beautiful place to look out for. 

90. Northern Lights, Alaska

It’s everyone’s lifelong dream to see and admire the Northern Lights in Alaska, or the Aurora Borealis as they call it. Here’s some tip! Head over to Murphy Dome in Alaska to get the most stunning and dazzling Northern Lights views between August and April, beaming with green, blue, purple, and red colors across the night sky. 

91. Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is known for its giant sequoia trees dominating the lush green forests of California. Aside from the trees, some other notable attractions in the park are the Tunnel Tree, Moro Rock, and the underground Crystal Cave. 

92. Mendenhall Glacier Caves

Prepare to be enchanted with the majestic bluish glow of the caves of glaciers in Mendenhall, Alaska! And if you think that an ice cave trip would just be a downright leisurely walk, you’re mistaken! You can sign up for many private tours, including hiking, trekking, paddling, and kayaking. Imagine booking the area as a venue for your proposal or wedding; I am sure it will be lit!

93. Bonneville Salt Flats

Famously known for its uniquely dense and zero curvature white salt pan, Bonneville In Utah is also famous as the ground for a bunch of recreational activities. They use this unique terrain for photography, cinematography, archery events, running & marathons, and land speed racing where cars can accelerate up to 600 mph. 

94. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

275-square miles of deserted land with just plain white gypsum sand, isn’t it boring? Big No! Aside from the picturesque dune field, there are surprisingly many things to do here, including sledding, camping, scenic drives, picnics, motorcycle riding, and ranger-guided hikes. They even allow you to bring your dogs here!

95. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields

Be dazzled with the rainbow-colored 30-acre tulips of over 50 varieties in the Skagit Valley Fields in Washington State! As equally beautiful as the tulips in the Netherlands, Skagit Valley is the perfect spot to wander with family and take flowery pictures, all while admiring the stunning backdrop of the mountains. 

96. Antelope, Arizona

Unique and unmatched—Antelope is one of the unique places to visit in the US, exhibiting its surreal canyon-like sandstone formations in Davis County. Notice that these slot canyons with beautiful orange hues are one of your computers’ default nature wallpapers; believe it or not, they are walkable!

97. Lava Beds National Monument

Welcome to the land of lava beds! Impressive view of volcanoes, volcanic formations like cinder cones and pit craters, over 500 lava tubes, and numerous hiking trails, there’s so much to discover in this surreal volcanic plateau in California. 

You can discover the lava caves according to the difficulty you can bear—the least challenging caves with high ceilings, moderately challenging ones that require you to crouch down through lower sections, and the most challenging ones that need you to crawl!

98. Zion National Park

Don’t hang back and experience the best wall climb of your life through the steep red cliffs of Zion National Park in Utah! Explore some famous stone structures in Zion, like the Kolob Canyons, Kolob Terrace, Great Arch, Checkerboard Mesa, and the famous Angel’s Landing, where you can spot the humongous California Condors flying.  

99. Bryce Canyon National Park

If you are interested in seeing a horde of incredible hoodoos, Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah has many of these, and surprisingly, they have the most in the world! These giant orange shafts of rock structures are the star of the park giving that otherworldly vibe, especially on Queens Garden Trail, where you can see statues like Thor’s Hammer and Queen Victoria.

The highlight of your Bryce Canyon trip would be the night sky program, where you can see and appreciate the night skies with less light pollution.

100. Monument Valley

Towering Colorado’s sandstone plateau is the sand buttes of Monument Valley in Utah, soaring up to 1000 feet! Did you know that Monument Valley’s Sandrock formations are one of the most photographed on Earth? Interestingly, they’re not just in vivid red color but come in purple and blue-gray colors as well from the oxides.

There is no argument that the number 1 vacation spot in the USA is New York City; it offers a lot of options and itineraries to make your vacation meaningful, from the vivid lights of Time Square to the stunning beauty of the Statue of Liberty, you can also take a romantic walk in the Central Park.

Los Angeles would be the best option for first-timers in the USA, with its lively nightlife and iconic Hollywood attractions, their beautiful beaches, and inclusive multicultural environment, making you feel at home.

The ferocious Colorado River is one of the prettiest places to visit in the USA. Carving through the canyon creates massive and beautiful scenery; other than that, the Grand Canyon National Park is known for having breathtaking vistas.

The cheapest month to travel in the USA may be considered in different factors, the destination, the airline of your choice, and the weather condition; however, the best month to visit the USA is January to February due to its low demand.

• Best Places To Visit in Chicago
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Enoch Omololu is a traveller, culinary tourist, and money expert. He is the co-founder of Only Earthlings and established the popular Savvy New Canadians platform. Enoch has been featured in Business Insider, Forbes, Best Life Online, GOBankingRates, Penny Hoarder, Globe and Mail, Yahoo, and CBC News.

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29 Surreal Places In America You Need To Visit Before You Die

If you live in the U.S., you don't need a passport to see what mother nature has to offer.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. Mendenhall Glacier Caves, Alaska

In Mendenhall Valley of Juneau stands this 12-mile glacier that is home to some incredibly surreal ice caves. If you follow the West Glacier trail, you can get a chance to see these whimsical ice clouds for yourself.

2. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Located near Page, Ariz., this brilliant slot canyon is split into two different sections, commonly referred to as “The Crack” and “The Corkscrew.” The natural canvas of color and unique structure is an Instgrammer's dream.

3. Oneonta Gorge, Oregon

The Oneonta Gorge is in the Columbia River Gorge with a unique set of aquatic and woodland plants. The ferns and moss make the walls look like a fairy tale, and visitors can walk through the creek on a warm summer day.

4. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

Located in Washington state, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the tulip fields between April 1–30 to see these gorgeous flowers in bloom. The festival is designed as a driving tour since there is no one designated "site."

5. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Colorado

This wilderness area is located in the Elk Mountains of central Colorado and has over 100 miles of trails. The closest city in reach is Aspen and the entire area spans over 181,000 acres.

6. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

This isolated island of bliss sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, surrounded by clear waters and an abundance of sea life. The area is only accessible by boat or seaplane, so leave your phone at home and enjoy a day off the grid.

7. Zion National Park, Utah

Located near Springdale, Utah, this incredible 146,000-acre park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. A prominent feature is the Zion Canyon, which is 15 miles long and a half-mile deep. Other spots to visit while you're here is "The Subway"(pictured on the left) and "The Narrows" (pictured on the right).

8. Watkins Glen State Park, New York

We all know Niagara Falls is a sight to see, but located south of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes region lies a lesser-known fantasy-like area called Rainbow Bridge and Falls. It will make you feel like you're in Lord of the Rings .

9. Yosemite Valley, California

This 8-mile glacial valley is covered in pine and surrounded by granite summits like Half Dome and El Capitan. The California beauty is a hot spot for tourists and photographers and it also offers scenic trails for hikers.

10. Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming

This natural pool of rainbow-like colors is the largest hot spring in the U.S. and the third largest in the world. It's located in Yellowstone National Park, which also has other great sights to see such as Morning Glory Pool , Old Faithful , and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone .

11. Haiku Stairs of Oahu, Hawaii

This "Stairway to Heaven" is a steep hiking trail that is technically closed to the public, but many people continue to climb despite the “No Trespassing” signs. Sometimes breaking the law is worth it, right?

12. Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

In this National Park beneath the rocky land lies more than 119 known caves, formed from limestone and sulfuric acid. Visitors can take the natural entrance (pictured on the right) or ride down the elevator 750 feet below ground.

13. Whitaker Point, Arkansas

In the heart of the Buffalo River country lies this incredible crag, a popular spot for proposals, scenic photographs, and pretty killer views. The best time to snap a pic is at 6:15 a.m. (as pictured above on the left).

14. Hamilton Pool, Texas

Located just outside of Austin, this natural pool is a popular spot for tourists and residents in the summer. Hamilton Pool was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.

15. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Named after its horseshoe-like shape, this famous meander is located just outside Page, Ariz., and offers a wicked view of the Colorado River.

16. Northern Lights, Alaska

The Northern Lights is one of the most beautiful wonders of the world, and a trip to Alaska will give you a front-row seat. The best places to see the lights are in Fairbanks and Anchorage from about September–April 20.

17. Bryce Canyon, Utah

This collection of large natural amphitheaters is famous for its hoodoos, geological structures formed by frost weather and stream erosion. The orange, red, and white rocks are a beautiful sight and only roughly 50 miles from Zion National Park.

18. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Bordering California and Nevada, this freshwater lake is the largest alpine lake in North America. The clear waters and surrounding trees make it an ideal vacation spot.

19. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina/Tennessee

A subrange of the Appalachian Mountains, the Smokies are a mountain range along the North Carolina–Tennessee border. It's the most visited national park in the U.S., with 9 million-plus visitors per year.

20. Niagara Falls, New York

Located along the United States –Canada border is the famous Niagara Falls, a popular spot for tourists.

21. The Wave, Arizona

Located in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness near the Arizona-Utah border lies The Wave, a sandstone rock formation that looks look a painting. The sight is known for its vibrant colors and the trackless hike to reach it.

22. Sequoia National Park, California

Sequoia National Park is known for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, one of the largest in the world. It stands at 275 feet tall and is believed to be roughly 2,500 years old.

23. Thor's Well, Oregon

Along Cape Perpetua lies Thor's Well, a saltwater fountain driven by the power of the ocean tide. The best time to see it in action is an hour before high tide to an hour after high tide. While it's a beautiful sight, it's also highly dangerous and visitors should proceed with caution.

24. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

The red and orange rocky mountains bring in nearly 1 million visitors per year to the Badlands National Park. Native Americans used this area for hunting grounds for roughly 11,000 years.

25. Savannah, Georgia

The oldest city in the state of Georgia, Savannah has a charming personality and fairy tale-like array of Spanish moss trees.

26. Palouse Falls, Washington

Located in Washington state, this enchanting scene almost came to an end in 1984 when the Franklin County Public Utility District proposed to build a dam to allow hydroelectric power generation. Ratepayers decided to preserve the falls.

27. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is located near Kalispell, Mont., and borders parts of Canada. The park encompasses more than 1,000,000 acres and attracts roughly 2 million people per year.

28. Nā Pali Coast State Park, Hawaii

The Na Pali Coast is inaccessible by car but can be seen over land by helicopter or hiking. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access, but there are also caves you can explore along the coast.

29. Devils Tower, Wyoming

Devils Tower is a giant igneous intrusion that rises 5,000-plus feet above sea level. According to Native American folklore, a few girls went out to play and were discovered by several bears who began to chase them. The girls tried to escape by climbing a rock and praying to the Great Spirit to save them, and their prayers were answered when the rock rose from the ground toward the heavens and away from danger. When the girls reached the sky, they were turned into the star constellations. There are also several other theories and stories regarding the Devils Tower.

Don't forget to check out Bring Me for all of BuzzFeed's best travel tips and hacks, vacation inspiration, and more !

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10 U.S. National Parks You Need To Explore Before You Die

"The fundamental idea behind the parks is that the country belongs to the people." - FDR

By: Mike Scaturo + Save to a List

The National Parks Service has spent 100 years protecting and preserving our country’s most precious natural and cultural resources. They've given a gift to every American and visitors from all over the world. It’s a vital part of what makes the United States a wonderful place for exploration, but with 58 national parks and 117 national monuments, deciding where to visit on your next epic road trip can be a bit overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten national parks to visit before you die and even given you a few tips on where to start once you get there. It's a lot to see in just one lifetime...start making your plans now!

1. Acadia National Park

2. Zion National Park

3. Shenandoah National Park

4. Grand Teton National Park

5. Yosemite National Park

6. Glacier National Park

7. Denali National Park & Preserve

8. Olympic National Park

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

10. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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10 Things you need to do in Baja

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Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Baja, Mexico? We've rounded up the top 10 things you need to do while you're there. From visiting the famed boojum trees in Cataviña to exploring secluded waterfalls, there's something for everyone. by: wyld honeys

Journey to Wyoming’s premier snowmobiling destination: Togwotee Mountain Lodge

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A couple of snowmobiling newbies hop aboard some steel horse sleds to explore the mountains of Wyoming.

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50 Things to do in the USA before You Die ...

Neecey 94 Comments

If you are a proud citizen, interested in your country’s social, political and cultural history, or just a serial traveler, there are probably a myriad of possibilities on your list of things to do in the USA before you die. As a huge country with glorious and diverse landscapes, amazing sprawling metropolitan areas and tiny towns, and a fantastically wealthy history, narrowing down the potentials is never going to be easy, but here is my pick of the 50 things to do in the USA before you die. Enjoy!

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Go Horse Riding in Montana

Bungee Jump from the Royal Gorge Bridge

At this dizzying altitude, you'll feel the adrenaline rush as you take the leap of faith with nothing but the vast expanse of air between you and the river far below. It's an absolutely unforgettable experience that will leave your heart pounding long after you've been hoisted back up. The majestic views of the surrounding canyons are a bonus that you can take in once you've regained your composure. Just imagine the bragging rights you'll earn after conquering the extreme height and your own fears in this stunning setting!

Tour the White House

Go to the Superbowl

Ride a Cable Car in San Francisco

Love is like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and unquenchable.

Attend the Grand Ole Opry

Pig out at Hershey’s Chocolate World

See the Trees in Redwood National Park

Nestled along the coast of Northern California, this nature's masterpiece isn’t just an exhibition of the tallest trees in the world. The park is a sanctuary where the whispers of ancient giants mix with the sounds of native fauna. Step quietly through the forest and you might spot Roosevelt elk, black bears, or a diverse range of bird species. Wander a little further to discover a symphony of rivers and streams, leading your adventurous spirit to hidden waterfalls. It’s a place that begs you to disconnect from the buzz of civilization and reconnect with Mother Earth’s pristine rhythm.

Try Tailgating in Chicago

Eat Buffalo Wings in Buffalo

Visit Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota and is made up of four 60-foot-high sculptures of former US presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The memorial was created by sculptor Gutzon Borglum between 1927 and 1941 and is now a National Monument. The Crazy Horse Memorial, located 17 miles away, is an unfinished sculpture of the Oglala Lakota warrior and is the world’s largest mountain carving. Both sites offer guided tours and educational programs. The area is also home to several other attractions, including the Crazy Horse Visitor Center and Museum, the Native American Cultural Center, and the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site.

Take the Polar Bear Plunge

Let It All Hang out at Mardi Gras

Sashay through the streets in a feathered mask or stand atop a wrought-iron balcony, drink in hand, as you watch a kaleidoscope of floats with larger-than-life characters breeze by. As brass bands set the Crescent City alight with jazz, sip on a hurricane or a Sazerac to fully embrace the spirit of NOLA . Remember, it's not just about the frivolity and theatrics; Mardi Gras is a historic celebration deeply rooted in tradition. So, indulge in a sugary beignet , revel in the communal atmosphere, and collect memories that are as vibrant as the costumes around you.

Be a Movie Extra

Pay Your Respects at Arlington Cemetery

Make Your Own Wine in the Napa Valley

Build a Structure at Texas Sandfest

Ride the Coasters at Ohio Cedar Point

Cedar Point isn't just about the thrilling rides, though it's famed for its spine-tingling Steel Vengeance and max adrenaline-pumping Top Thrill Dragster . But beyond the coasters, you'll find a wide array of attractions for all ages – enchanting carousels for the young and nostalgic, rip-roaring water rides for the heat-beaten, and a spectacular beach when a pause from the heart-pounding excitement is needed. It boasts a history dating back to 1870, making it one of the oldest amusement parks in the US—its evolution from classic amusement gardens to a world-class theme park adds to the charm and wonder.

Take a Helicopter Tour over Hawaii

Visit Mark Twain’s Grave

Step out on the Grand Canyon Skywalk

Get Spooked at Myrtle’s Plantation

Get Hot and Bothered in Death Valley

See the View from the Statue of Liberty’s Crown

Get the Blues in Chicago

Hike the Appalachian Trail

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge

See the Northern Lights

Pair the wondrous experience of the Aurora Borealis with the park's clear, dark skies for a truly ethereal sight. Summer and winter each offer unique charms – topaz blue skies in June to dusky twilight in December. Beyond the lights, explore the pristine wilderness – take a sled-dog tour or hike the untouched terrains. Remember, timing is key; the Auroras are most active around the equinoxes in March and September, so plan accordingly for a glimpse into this celestial dance. Embrace the crisp air and let the vibrant hues of green, pink, and purple captivate your spirit.

Reconnect with Your Inner Child at Toys ‘R’ Us

Catch the Spray at Niagara Falls

Ride a Fan Boat in the Everglades

Free Your Spirit at Burning Man

The Burning Man Festival beckons you to immerse yourself in a transformative experience that goes beyond standard festivities. Imagine a temporary city dedicated to art , self-expression , and radical self-reliance established in the vastness of the desert. This is a place where money loses its value and bartering becomes the norm, where massive, intricate sculptures stand against the sky, only to be set aflame in a spectacle of ephemeral beauty. Participation is key: you'll don costumes, engage in spontaneous performances, and leave no trace upon departure, embodying the festival's core ethos of Leave No Trace .

Shake Hands with the President

Have a Carriage Ride in Central Park

Ride the X Train

The X Train is the perfect way to travel in style from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. With luxurious amenities such as flat screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and cocktail service, you can enjoy the journey in comfort and luxury. The X Train is only available to adults over 21, and the inaugural trip is planned for January 4th, 2014. This is an experience you won't want to miss, and it's one of the top 50 things to do in the USA before you die. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as the X Train is sure to be a popular choice for travelers.

Go Whale Watching

Eat S'mores in Yellowstone National Park

See a Rocket Launch

Visiting Cape Canaveral to witness a rocket launch is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Launches are scheduled throughout the year, so you can plan accordingly. The view of the rocket taking off is an incredible sight, and you can even feel the rumble of the engines from miles away. The launch schedule is available on the NASA website, so you can stay up to date on upcoming launches. You can even take a tour of the facility and learn about the history of space exploration. A trip to Cape Canaveral is a must for anyone interested in space exploration and the history of the United States space program.

Go Oh La La in the French Quarter, New Orleans

Strolling through the vibrant streets, let the rich blend of French, African, Spanish, and American cultures enchant you. Immerse yourself in the artistic pulse of the area, where street performers and musicians add an electric energy. Explore the bustling French Market or find treasures in the local art galleries. Indulge in the culinary fusion that this neighborhood is famous for – from spicy gumbo to sweet pralines. Finish your visit with a hauntingly beautiful ghost tour or a leisurely carriage ride, enveloped in the magic of the city that care forgot.

Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Have the Time of Your Life at Walt Disney World

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Understand the Birth of a Nation at Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia

Walk the Boston Freedom Trail

Visit Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

Be Awed at Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

Visit the Civil Rights District, Atlanta

Drive Route 66

Ride a Gondola at the Venetian in Las Vegas

Tour the National Mall, Washington DC

It was great fun compiling this list of 50 things to do in the US before you die, but I am pretty sure that all of you will have an essential that you think I should have included, so I’m really looking forward to hearing what they are. So come on, ladies – what’s missing?

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

I think it is sad that I have only did one thing on this list. 😭

Whit water rafting down the snake river should be on here

Are tours of the White House still offered? I thought perhaps with security issue they were no longer offering tours? Does anyone know for certain?

great list! thank you, even if it might not be complete. I'm proud to have seen several of the list as a rotary exchange student back in 1994:)

Cool stuff but i did only 2 things on that list to me my bucket list is different but i do want to do some of that stuff on the list tho

I like 13 an 39. Bc I lived in New Orleans . I love their king cake without the icing. And their beignets are dalicious. They are so damn good!

niagra falls is in canada and haweii is in hawiee

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Here Is The One Place You Must See Before You Die In All 50 States

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

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Whether yours is hanging on the fridge or just in your head, everyone has a bucket list. For some of us, seeing as many different places in the world is the priority. For others, it’s traveling to each of the states in America. I believe both of these things are important to ensure I’ve had a well-traveled life, but I also think what we do in each spot is vital. Rather than simply checking something off a list, I love the idea of seeing the most beautiful places in each state . That might mean a waterfall, a valley, a monument, or a beach that seems to go on forever. The options are different in each region. But, one thing is for sure. The best places to visit in each state are certainly the most beautiful places in the country. Take a look at our list and start making your own must-see bucket list.

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How many of these amazing places throughout the U.S. have you visited? If you’ve been to any that you love, we’d love to hear any tips or tricks you have for making sure a visit is as special as possible. Let us know of any must-visit restaurants, cafes, or side attractions in the comments. And, as you make your way through this list of places you might want to spend some long weekends in new regions. For that, we love the idea of a vacation rental .

Each of the spots on this list is great for a visit by car, but if you want to create a fun way to see the country you might also want to consider a train ride . that shows off some of the country’s prettiest landscapes.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Most beautiful places in each state.

What are the most beautiful small towns in the USA?

The most beautiful small towns in the USA are in every state, from California to Maine. Each one is worth exploring, but here are a few great options:

• Boothbay Harbor, Maine : This coastal town is home to beauty and history. It's the home of one of the state's most incredible botanical gardens, with special events throughout the year.
• Helen, Georgia : With Bavarian architecture and fun nature activities, this is the perfect town for families that have differing interests. Be sure to check out the river floating if you visit when it's warm outside.
• Bisbee, Arizona : Home to less than 5,000 people, Bisbee is an adorably fun place to visit. Enjoy the history here, then head out on one of the many nearby hikes.

To explore more small, beautiful towns in the USA consider enjoying two days in each of the top 23 spots .

What are the best road trips in the USA?

The best road trips in the USA offer lots of scenery and access to fun attractions. Here are a few of the best to put at the top of your list:

• The Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire : This road trip is less than 50 miles and offers twists and turns through the mountains that you'll love. Try to experience this drive in the autumn for truly incredible views.
• US Route 1, Florida : While Route One travels through more than just Florida, the 545 miles that make their way through the Sunshine State are absolutely some of the best.
• Going-To-The-Sun Road, Montana : Without a doubt, this is one of America's most scenic highways. And, the best part is that it goes right through Glacier National Park .

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10 Places to See in the USA Before You Die

As recent events have reminded us, you never know when you may no longer be able to travel. With so many places to see, it was impossible to come up with a “best of” list. Consider this particular list as more of an introduction to the essential American attractions. Here are the 10 places to see in the USA before you die.

Places to See in the USA Before You Die

1.  the grand canyon, arizona.

Seeing the grandeur of the Grand Canyon in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona can be a breathtaking experience. The Canyon is 277 miles long, almost 10 miles wide, and one mile deep. It has been expanding for the past six million years thanks to the mighty Colorado River.

If you need more inspiration and are fit for a challenge, hike the canyon rim to rim and then go white water rafting down the Colorado River (as your rovin’ writer once did). Need information? Inquire at the Grand Canyon Village.

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The Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things To Do Before You Die

The world is full of wonder and if you’re anything like me, you want to go out and explore! Check out my ultimate travel bucket list – 100 unmissable places to visit before you die. How many can you tick off?

By Julianna Barnaby and Sophie Ritchie

There are so many incredible places to see on this planet… but sometimes a bit of extra inspiration doesn’t hurt.

From incredible landscapes that make your eyes pop and your jaws drop, to incredible architecture – here is the ultimate travel bucket list. 100 places to see before you die.

After all, nothing says it better than this cool travel quote from Ray Bradbury.

“Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

1. grand canyon, usa.

They don’t call it Grand for nothing. The Grand Canyon is a huge, steep canyon, located in Arizona , carved by the Colorado River.

Let’s talk measurements for a second so you can get an idea of the scale of this natural wonder. 446km long and 29km wide.

I’m guessing that it’s already on your list of things to see before you die. If you’re up for the challenge, you can go and hike the whole thing … or simply see the scale of its beauty from one of the many lookouts.

These are especially beautiful to watch the sunrise and sunset from, so make sure you check the times before you go!

2. See The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible wonders.

A series of dancing lights that charge the night sky in pinks, greens, yellows and purples – seeing the Aurora Borealis is the ultimate travel bucket list item.

Cool northern lights-spotting destinations include Iceland , Norway , Alaska and northern Canada.

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

3. Giant’s Causeway, United Kingdom

he Giant’s Causeway is a stone formation made up of 40,000 basalt columns, located just off the coast of Antrim in Northern Ireland.

While scientists say that the formations were the result of a volcanic eruption, legend has it that the columns were a causeway built by a giant so that Scottish and Irish giants could meet and fight. I’m going to go with the latter – much more believable.

4. Bryce Canyon, USA

One of the US’s best-known national parks, Bryce Canyon is a collection of giant natural amphitheatres in southern Utah and one of the most beautiful natural landmarks I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. 

Designated a National Park in 1928, Bryce Canyon now receives nearly 2.5 million annual visitors to marvel at its red, orange and white rock formations.

5. Antelope Canyon, USA

Walking through the weird curved formations of Antelope Canyon , it’s difficult to believe that it’s not man made.

It’s not. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, located in Page, Arizona. Formed by the erosion of sandstone from the flash floods that occur in the area, it’s a must for any avid traveller. 

Photographers come from far and wide to get a glimpse of this beautiful orange, red and yellow canyon and the magical light filtered through the canyon’s shaped walls.

6. Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns, Iceland

The striking Reynisdrangar basalt columns on the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach are one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders (they have tough competition).

The columns were formed by volcanic activity – the same kind that created the Giant’s Causeway mentioned above.

Legend has it that they are three trolls, frozen in time by the sun’s rays. Sound familiar? That’s because Tolkien used the legend in his world-famous story The Hobbit.

7. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park is just incredible. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the northeast of California it’s well-known as one of America’s most beautiful travel destinations.

Want to know where to travel before you die? Start with Yosemite.

Granite cliffs, clear streams, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers – it’s no wonder that the famous photographer Ansel Adams loved it – and I bet you will too.

8. The Dead Sea, Israel / West Bank / Jordan

We all know that you can float on The Dead Sea. This curious natural wonder is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. It’s not actually a sea, despite its name, it’s a lake on the borders of Israel, the West Bank and Jordan .

The banks of the Dead Sea are over 400m below sea level, making them the lowest point in the world on dry land.

The easiest way to visit The Dead Sea is by taking a short-ish bus journey from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, alternatively you can rent a car and drive, though booking onto a tour makes things even easier.

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is no secret. Another place that’s arguably being loved to death, it’s enduringly beautiful.

The bay, which is located in Northeast Vietnam, stretches over 1500 square kilometres and is scattered with over 1600 islands and islets.

Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and rainforest-topped islands and a favourite among beauty-seekers.

10. Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

When it comes to bucket list places to visit, The Jeita Grotto is often forgotten about. It’s a set of two separate but interconnected limestone caves, located in the Nahr al-Kalb Valley in Lebanon. 

It can only be entered by boat as it channels an underground river, but once inside, visitors can see the incredible rock formations, and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

11. Acropolis, Greece

The Acropolis in Athens is an ancient citadel located on the top of a hill in Athens, which contains many ancient (and remains of) buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Acropolis is a greatly important symbol of Greek history, architecture and spirit and visiting it should have a prime spot on your travel bucket list.

12. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Take whatever you’ve heard about Angkor Wat, times it by 100 and yet it will still blow you away. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is just straight up incredible. 

Angkor Wat is a mystical complex of temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Angkor Wat also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world at 400 square kilometres – it’s made up of hundreds of incredible and awe inspiring temples and ruins.

If you need any more reason to believe you need to visit this special place, it even features on the country’s flag!

13. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Sounds like something that deserves a place on your bucket list right? Right.

But what exactly is Chichen Itza? Well only the biggest archaeological city of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilisation, located in the Yucatán State, Mexico .

Its huge pyramid, El Castillo, is the centre of the ancient city. Both were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1988.

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, everybody raves about it… but you know what? That’s because it is incredible. Machu Picchu is the old Inca City, located on top of a 2500m mountain in the Cusco region of Peru, just above the Sacred Valley.

Forgotten by the Western world for centuries, it was rediscovered by intrepid explorer Hiram Bingham. Machu Picchu was crowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (of course).

IMHO Machu Picchu is the best archaeological site in the South American continent, and definitely deserves to be at the top of your South America bucket list .

15. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Who hasn’t dreamt of jetting off to see the mysterious Pyramids of Giza ?

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the outskirts of Cairo Egypt. The complex contains 3 pyramids, a Great Sphinx Sculpture and several cemeteries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Egypt’s world-famous pyramids were built as a tomb for the pharaohs and their queens.

Now they’re one of the most recognisable (and photographed) structures in the world –  I fell head over heels for them after a recent visit to the country.

16. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument, located in Wiltshire, England. I’ll be completely honest, I’ve never really got why everyone goes so nuts about them… but I can never resist a cheeky detour when I’m on my way to Glastonbury Festival.

The 4 metre high collection of stones were constructed over time between 2500 and 5000 years ago, and are now one of the seven Wonders of the World. Druids and Pagans still use the site to celebrate important occasions such as the summer solstice.

17. The Colosseum, Italy

How about adding the largest amphitheatre ever built to your list of 100 places to see before you die? Yep, thought so.

The Colosseum is an old amphitheatre in the middle of Rome – it was built to hold up to 80,000 spectators.

Although over the years it has been partially ruined by earthquakes, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Rome, recognisable from around the world.

18. Bagan, Myanmar

Catapulted from a place very few people had heard of to one of the recent year’s travel hotspots, Bagan is a beautiful place. The ancient city in Myanmar is nicknamed the temple town, as it is home to 2,229 remaining temples and pagodas.

Most of these have been restored or preserved by UNESCO, and many contain incredible statues and carvings of Buddha – worth a visit in themselves. 

Head to the site early in the morning in the evening – you’ll see the most incredible Bagan sunrises and sunsets – preferably by hot air balloon.

19. Taj Mahal, India

Is it the most photographed building in the world? It’s certainly the best-known mausoleum.

The Taj Maha l is a white marble mausoleum, built in 1648 at the command of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, to remember his late wife.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the ornate Taj Mahal is a beautiful symbol of India and needs to be on any bucket list 100.

20. The Great Wall of China, China

China’s most famous landmark, The Great Wall of China is testament to the incredible building skills of civilisations past.

The “Great Wall” is actually a number of walls that run along the historical Northern borders of China, that were built to protect the Chinese against invasions from Eurasia.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it is the longest wall in the world – it’s even visible from space.

21. London, United Kingdom

London needs no introduction. This cosmopolitan capital is crammed with cool things to do and places to see and deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Dating back to Roman times, London is now home to a whopping nearly 9 million people… including the Royal Family.

Head here to see some of the world’s most famed attractions – Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and so many other pretty places to see in London , not to mention some of the most striking street art in the world and a plethora of brilliant restaurants.

Aside from tourist hot spots, London is filled with cool neighbourhoods well worth taking the time to explore – take Hackney, Shoreditch, Croydon, and Clapham, for example.

22. Paris, France

The City of Love – there’s a lot more to Paris than snuggling up for a cosy tete a tete with your other half.

Famed for its culture, art, cuisine and fashion, Paris has something for everyone – which explains why it’s on pretty much every bucket list 100 out there.

Whizz around between beautiful spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Treat yourself to some fancy accommodation and enjoy one of Europe’s most opulent cities.

23. Florence, Italy

Another one of Europe’s cultural hotspots, Florence is well-known for being the birthplace of beautiful Renaissance art and architecture.

Art lovers will rejoice in Florence, with magnificent works by Michaelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci on display at the Uffizi Gallery. 

But that’s not all there is to this dreamy Italian spot – the food is impeccable, the city is filled with family-run trattorias and gelato hotspots. Prepare to spend half your time eating, and the other half snapping photos.

Planning a trip? Check out the many world-famous Italian landmarks Florence boasts, such as Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and its ‘Duomo’, the Palazzo Vecchio, and Boboli Gardens. Then hop in a car to discover the rest of Tuscany on a road trip.

24. Rome, Italy

Ahh Rome , what a city. Every time you think you have seen it all, Rome comes up with something else to surprise you.

Full of architecture, art and ancient ruins, it’s known worldwide for its fashion and designer boutiques. Head to the Colosseum for some history, the Vatican for some culture and the Trevi Fountain to make a wish.

Don’t even get me started on the sheer number of brilliant eateries either…

25. Vienna, Austria

The capital of Austria, Vienna is a dream. This gorgeous city is known across Europe for its baroque art and architecture, and its musical and intellectual legacy. 

Some of Vienna’s most well known attractions are the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg, a complex of palaces.

Viennese cafe culture is also one of the best in Europe, so much so that UNESCO popped it on their intangible cultural heritage list. Head into one of Vienna’s very many cafes for a Viennese coffee and a slice of schokotorte.

26. Oxford, United Kingdom

Oxford is one of the UK’s most famous cities, thanks to its prestigious university (I studied there and it was just as incredible as you would imagine).

With the university dating back to the 11th century, Oxford is full of so many things to do – old architecture, beautiful scenery and tasty cuisine.

Head to Oxford to see the Museum of Natural History, the Oxford Botanic Gardens, and of course its prestigious university and its colleges.

27. Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s evocative capital is an unforgettable experience – there’s no way I’d leave it out of my pick of top 100 bucket list destinations. It’s been a while since I’ve visited but the sights and sounds of the city will always stay with me.

Gorgeous 16th-century architecture and vintage American cars , music and dance – not forgetting the delicious cuisine and daiquiris!

When you’re here, head to the Revolution Museum, Morro Castle and Old Havana, to see the best bits. It’s no wonder that Hemingway loved it – pop into El Floridita , his favourite bar.

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro may NOT be Brazil’s capital but it makes up for it with culture, looks and fun.

The first time I visited Rio, I was fresh-faced and 18 – several (and I mean several) years later, I’m just as in love with Rio as when I first clapped eyes on it.

This vibrant capital city is best known for its architecture, forest topped mountains and golden beaches. Some of Rio’s best sights are the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

29. Venice, Italy

Venice might be sinking but we still love it. In truth, it’s difficult to leave Venice out of any list of must-see travel spots, BUT it is suffering from serious overtourism, so you might want to skip it in favour of somewhere quieter.

Full of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, there are very few roads in Venice, mostly canals, with boats and gondolas to transport people. The best places to see are the Piazza San Marco, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge – just magical!

30. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is more than relaxed marijuana laws and chilled out coffee shops. Home to an impressive array of world-class museums, beautiful canals, gorgeous architecture and history.

Start by visiting the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, walk along the canals and spend some time exploring the city by bike.

Dutch food might not be much to write home about, but they sure know a thing or two about sweet things – make it your mission to scoff as many poffertjes and stroopwafel as possible. A bucket list travel must.

31. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The Iguazu Falls are waterfalls on the Iguazu River that border Misiones, the Argentinian province, Paraná, the Brazilian state and Paraguay. At 82 metres high and the chain of falls nearly 3km long, they are the largest waterfalls system in the world.

Think the view can’t be better? Wait until you hear their astoundingly loud roar – sight and sound – it’s almost deafening, and an absolute thrill.

32. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe / Zambia

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, in southern Africa. 

Described by CNN as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the water at the Victoria Falls drops a staggering 108m, and is the largest curtain of water in the world.

The easiest way to visit is to fly to Livingstone, the nearest airport – from there it’s around 11km to the falls via a taxi.

Or, if you would really like to treat yourself (I approve), view the falls from above during a helicopter flight over the natural landmark. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

33. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

The Niagara Falls are a set of three impressive waterfalls that border Ontario, Canada, and New York State in the US. The three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, all fall at the southern end of the Niagara gorge, and have a total height of 51m.

As the most famous falls in the world, Niagara is something that you’ve got to see. If you’re feeling brave, jump on one of the boat tours which take you up close and personal to the falls.

34. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, China / Vietnam

The Ban Gioc–Detian Falls are a set of two waterfalls on the Quây Sơn River, on the border of China and Vietnam.

The main waterfall is the Detian waterfall, and the other waterfall is the Ban Gioc Waterfall, with the cumulative drop being a whopping 60m.

You can hop on a boat, which will take you on a river tour close to the falls for an extra-special experience.

35. Palouse Falls, USA

The Palouse Falls is a waterfall on the Palouse River, 6km up from the meeting with the Snake River, in southeast Washington in the United States.

The falls consist of an upper falls and a lower falls, which are drops of 6.1m and 60m respectively. Bring your hiking boots and set off on one of the numerous trails around the top and the bottom of the falls.

36. Shoshone Falls, USA

Shoshone Falls is a waterfall on the Snake River in Southern Idaho. Known as the ‘Niagara of the West’, the falls are 65m high (which is actually higher than Niagara) and flow over a 300m wide rim.

Formed over 14,000 years ago, the Shoshone Falls attract up to 300,000 vehicles per year, and are definitely worth a spot on your ultimate bucket list. Bring a picnic and grab a spot in one of the designated areas for a fabulous day out.

37. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

Blue Nile Falls is a waterfall on the Blue Nile River, located in the north of Ethiopia. Known as ’Tis Abay’ in Amharic, meaning ‘great smoke’, the Falls are approximately 40 metres high, consisting of four streams.

This beautiful waterfall is one of Ethiopia’s top tourist attractions – just get ready for a hike to get the best views of the falls.

38. Gullfoss, Iceland

It’s hard to pick one waterfall from Iceland for our list, but Gullfoss can’t be missed. Gullfoss, meaning ‘Golden Waterfall’ is a waterfall located in the Olfusa River canyon, in Southwest Iceland.

The name comes from the golden colour of the waterfall in certain light – the result of sediment in the water.

The total height of Gullfoss is 32 metres and the longest drop is 21 metres. The beautiful waterfall offers brilliant views and we recommend going to see it on a sunny day, as there’s a big chance of seeing a rainbow shimmering over the falls.

Otherwise it’s a spectacular place to see the Northern Lights in the winter.

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

39. McWay Falls, USA

The McWay Falls are a waterfall that flows from McWay Creek in picture-perfect Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park onto a beach in Big Sur on the west coast of California.

The image of the 24m McWay Falls cascading onto the beach is one of Big Sur’s most iconic and something you can’t miss. The hike to the falls is rather easy and boasts some of Big Sur’s best views.

40. The Maldives

The Maldives are a set of South Asian islands, located in the Indian ocean. Made up of 26 atolls, ring shaped coral reefs together containing over 1000 coral islands.

People come from far and wide for The Maldives’ beautiful islands, luxury accommodation, azure waters, and colourful marine life.

If you love beaches, watersports or simply soaking up the views of one of the most beautiful places on this planet, the Maldives should be on your list.

41. Vava’u Islands

The Vava’u islands are a set of islands, one large and 40 small, located in Tonga in the South Pacific. Neiafu, the capital of these islands, is a gorgeous destination well worth exploring – make sure to visit the striking St Joseph’s Cathedral.

Looking for spectacular things to do before you die?

This tropical paradise has crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and beautiful sea life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, spinner dolphins and Humpback whales – a wildlife lover’s paradise!

42. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek Island in the Southern Aegean Sea.

Known as the ‘supermodel’ of the Greek Islands, it is instantly recognisable by its whitewashed buildings with blue roofs, multicoloured cliffs, beautiful sunsets and dazzlingly sapphire coloured waters.

There’s so much to do in Santorini including exploring Akrotiri’s ruins and chilling on Kamari’s black sand beach. You might have to battle the crowds, but it’s totally worth it.

43. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific, Northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia.

Being Tahiti’s most famous island, it is popular with the luxury crowd thanks to its fabulous hotels.

Bora Bora is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, which is fabulous for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

44. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island and province of Indonesia, popular among backpackers travelling Southeast Asia but also with a luxury side, full of beautiful beaches, incredible food , culture scenery and wildlife.

Known for its surfing, yoga , diving and great resorts, the ‘essence of Bali’, and its traditions have stolen the hearts of many visitors.

45. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

An archipelago in Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is known as both a beach lover’s shangri-la and an eco-wonderland. Built on volcanic rock, the coastline is as ragged as it is beautiful.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this paradise is full of pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and stunning wildlife. Apparently, even the sharks are friendly.

46. Maui, USA

Maui is an island which is part of the state of Hawaii, known for its natural beauty. It is Hawaii’s second-largest island, at 1,883 square kilometres. 

Known as the ‘Valley Isle’, Maui is famed for its world-famous beaches, the Iao Valley, humpback whales, and the marvellous sunset and sunrise from Haleakala. 

There are so many things to do in Maui with kids , as there are for a couple travelling alone.

47. Big Sur, USA

Big Sur is a stretch of California’s central coast. Forever linked with beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Big Sur tops the list of many literary lovers’ travel bucket lists – but there’s more to its appeal than that.

Driving through Big Sur on a Highway 1 road trip is very popular, with beautiful places to stop and look out, such as Bixby Bridge and the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the picturesque McWay Falls (see our pick of top 10 waterfalls for your bucket list) meets the sandy shore and drifts into the Ocean.

48. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, located off the East Coast in the Gulf of Thailand. 

Ko Samui is home to lush rainforest, coconut palms and some of the most spectacular beaches in Thailand, such as Bang Por, Choeng Mon and Taling Nam, which is incredible for watching the sunset on.

49. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is a province of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It is home to some of the best beaches and islands in Southeast Asia, such as Railay Beach , with incredible rock formations making it a climbers paradise, and the Phi Phi Islands, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘The Beach’ was filmed.

With white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that Krabi is at the top of most visitors’ lists of things to see when they’re in Thailand.

50. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is a desert located in Chile , South America and is one of the most surreal places on the planet.

The desert covers a 1000 square km area of land and is one of the driest places on Earth. Mars-like valleys, brightly coloured lakes, swarms of flamingos and the Southern hemisphere’s largest geyser field – if you’re heading to the Atacama desert, you’d better prepare to have your mind blown.

Check out my guide to road-tripping in the Atacama Desert.

51. Bolivia Salt Flats

The Bolivia Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) are located in the Potosí province in the southwest of Bolivia – not far from the Atacama Desert.

At 10,582 square km and placed 3,656m above sea level, they are the largest salt flats in the world. This incredible natural wonder was originally caused by the transformations of several prehistoric lakes, which are now covered by a few metres of salt crust.

52. Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is located in Patagonia, Chile. It is known for its beautiful mountains, blue icebergs and glaciers, and lush vegetation.

If you’re fit enough to take on the challenge, hiking the five day W trail should be on your list of things to do before you die – feeling even more adventurous? The 8-day O trek is for you.

The stunning Torres, after which the park is named, is the main attraction of the park, and over 250,000 visitors come to marvel at them every year. It’s honestly one of the most incredible places I’ve visited and well worth the hype.

53. Lake District, UK

The Lake District i s a mountainous area in Cumbria, in the north west of England, whose mountains, lakes and forests stretch over a huge 2,362 square km.

Boasting plenty of hikes and ways to reconnect with nature, this is a popular holiday destination for British tourists. 

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, and also the deepest and longest bodies of water in England – most definitely worth a trip.

54. Mù Cang Chả, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chả is a rural district located at the bottom of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in the northwest of Vietnam, in the Yên Bái Province.

It is home to incredible landscapes and perfectly-landscaped rice paddies – the Mù Cang Chả Rice Terrace has been recognised as one of the most unique landscapes in Vietnam, stretching across 22 square km of the mountainside.

Seeing the bright green paddies in real life is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of any trip to Vietnam.

55. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in Namibia, and encompasses part of the Namib Desert.

The Namib Desert is the world’s oldest desert, and Namib-Naukluft is the fourth-largest game park in the world. Wonderful creatures such as snakes, hyenas and geckos reside in the stunning signature red and orange sand.

56. Paro Valley, Bhutan

The Paro Valley is a lush valley located in western Bhutan. The historic town is full of culture, history and sacred sites, and the wide and richly vegetated Valley is one of Bhutan’s must-see sights. 

If you’re visiting the valley, you have to make a stop at Paro Taktsang which is tucked into the side of a cliff. It’s nicknamed the Tiger’s Nest Buddhist Temple and known one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan.

57. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Full of beautiful old Italian villas, farms, wineries and lush vegetation, it’s a beautiful location to visit. As I’ve already mentioned, Florence, the capital of the region, is filled with so many things for art-lovers to do.

Though it’s the gently rolling hills and green vineyards that make up a stunning landscape worthy of a postcard and a spot on your bucket list. Other must-visit towns include Montepulciano, Greve in Chianti, Montalcino and San Gimignano.

Travels Through Tuscany – the Ultimate Road Trip

59. Uluru, Australia

Uluru (previously known as Ayers Rock) is a large sandstone rock formation, located in the north central region of Australia, that rises 350 metres up away from its surrounding land.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Uluru is home to beautiful waterholes, springs and rock caves.

One of Australia’s indigenous tribes most sacred sites, you can no longer hike onto the rock itself, but can still soak up its spiritual presence from up close.

60. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso, located in the region of Liguria in Italy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area is full of colourful houses and vineyards and a beautiful blue harbour.

I’m betting it’s one of the most photographed places in Italy, but once you go, you can easily see why. Gorgeous views, even better wine, and a chilled-out pace of life – what’s not to love?

61. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the free-standing bell tower of Italy’s Pisa Cathedral. Built in 1372 at 56 metres tall, the tower is famed for its unintended tilt – the result of the soft ground on which it was built.

Head to the tower, take the obligatory selfie (or three – don’t miss the one where you pretend to push it over!) but don’t forget to explore the rest of this charming city, which is surprisingly quiet once you get away from the big sights.

62. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

The Golden Gate Bridge is a 1,280m suspension bridge that links San Francisco with Marin County in Western California. Built in 1937 for a huge $35 million, since opening it has become an icon of San Francisco and the most photographed bridge in the world.

Hike through the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge Park to the bottom of the bridge for a different view of this iconic bridge.

63. Eiffel Tower , Paris

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower, located on the Champ de Mars, in Paris, France. The engineer Gustave Eiffel, designed the tower and then his company built it in 1889.

With a total height of 324m, the instantly recognisable Eiffel Tower is synonymous with the city of love. Head up to the top for amazing views out over the city.

64. Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil . Built in 1931 by four men, Landowski, da Silva Costa, Caquor and Leonida, the 30 metre symbol of Rio sits atop of the Corcovado Mountain, looking over the city.

You can access the statue via a tough hike through the Tijuca rainforest, or via a tram or collectivo.

Whichever way you get there, the view of the city spread out below and of the statue itself is one of Rio’s real highlights.

65. The Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial group of islands in Dubai , United Arab Emirates, located on the Jumeirah coast. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about things to do before you die, but it’s well worth the trip.

Taking 5 years to build from 2001 to 2006, the Palm is now full of luxury hotels, restaurants and residences. In keeping with Dubai’s reputation for glitz and glamour, a trip to The Palm Jumeirah is one for the luxury-lovers among you.

The island is also home to arguably the best water park in Dubai – spend a day cooling off and seeking thrills at the Atlantis Aquaventure.

66. St Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

St Basil’s Cathedral is located in Red Square, Moscow, Russia. Built in 1561, this world-famous and colourful landmark was inspired by the flame from a bonfire rising into the sky.

Officially called ‘The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat’, this 48m high building is a totally bonkers but beautiful creation that’s guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

67. Sydney Opera House, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is an arts venue, located at Bennelong Point in the middle of the Sydney Harbour, Australia. Built in 1973, the Opera House became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The picturesque sail design of the house with the Sydney Harbour Bridge behind it is the iconic image of Sydney and a must-do on your Australia bucket list.

68. Statue of Liberty, USA

The Statue of Liberty is a sculpture of ‘Lady Liberty’, located on Liberty Island in the harbour in New York City.

The statue shows Lady Liberty holding a torch and a book with roman numerals of the date of the US Declaration of Independence.

Designed by Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the statue was dedicated to the US people from France in 1886.

The statue used to be the first sight of New York for those sailing into the city in days gone by, the boat trip to see  the statue is no less striking today.There is so much to enjoy in New York with various attractions, shopping and rooftop restaurants in New York .

69. Big Ben, United Kingdom

Big Ben (a nickname for the clock on the Elizabeth Tower), is a tower at the end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England.

Ever since it was built in 1859, it has been a British cultural icon, and is the most prominent symbol of London and the United Kingdom.

Big Ben is currently undergoing renovation works, but you can still take a peek at the Houses of Parliament below.

Want an extra-special view? Take one of the numerous boat cruises that float down the Thames for picture opps without the crowds.

70. Empire State Building, USA

The Empire State Building is a skyscraper, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City (between West 33rd and 34th streets to be precise).

The 102 storey building is not only a work office, but also has a viewing deck at the top where visitors can see the whole of the city.

The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City, and was designated the status of a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Book your ticket and get whisked up to the top for spectacular views out over the city.

71. Mount Everest, China / Nepal

Mount Everest, located in the Mahalangur range of the Himalayas, is the highest mountain on Earth at 8,848 m, with the border between China and Nepal running across its summit.

Since it was first climbed in 1953, Mount Everest has attracted keen climbers from all over, with two main climbing routes, one starting in southeast Nepal and the other in the north of Tibet in China – do you dare to rise to the challenge?

Just how tough is it to climb Mount Everest?

72. Rainbow Mountain Peru

Mount Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain , is a mountain in the Andes in Cusco, Peru.  

With its highest peak at 5,200m, Vinicunca is full of desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks and lots of alpacas!

Though South America isn’t short on a hike or two, this one comes with close-up views of the multi-coloured mountains and its picturesque surroundings.

73. Matterhorn, Switzerland

The Matterhorn is located in the Swiss Alps. At 4,478 m, it is one of the largest mountains in Europe and the Alps. Surrounded by glaciers, the Matterhorn is an incredibly beautiful site, with an almost symmetrical peak.

Skilled mountaineers can climb to the top of the mountain, but even if that’s not you, we pretty much guarantee you’ll be blown away by views of the mountain up close.

74. Fitz Roy, Argentina / Chile

Mount Fitz Roy is a mountain in Patagonia, located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field near El Chaltén on the border of Argentina and Chile .

First climbed in 1952, today it still remains one of the most challenging climbs on Earth with its highest point at 3,405 m.

Not quite up to the challenge? You can hike to the base of the mountain from El Chalten without too much difficulty.

75. K2, China / Pakistan

K2, also known as Mount Godwin Austen, is the second highest mountain in the world, at 8611 metres high, located on the border between China and Pakistan.

Not many dare to climb K2 as it is so dangerous. K2 is sometimes called the ‘Savage Mountain’, with a terrifying one out of four climbers never making it back.

76. Table Mountain, South Africa

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town in South Africa . The mountain is just over 1,085 metres tall and 3km from either side.

Visitors either hike up to the top or get the cable-car up (hint: do the hike, it’s awesome). Once at the top, the sweeping views of the city are incredible.

Cape Town is often chosen as one of the most spectacular cities in the world, and the views from Table Mountain give you a good idea why.

77. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is Canada’s national playground. Forming part of the Rockies National Park, Canada’s first national park, Banff’s highest peak is Bonnet Peak at 3,235 m.

The beautiful snow capped mountains surrounded by lush green forests and charming lakes are too tempting not to explore – doing so should be on your list of things to do before you die.

78. Mount Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan is a mountain range is the Anhui Province in Eastern China, with its top height reaching 1,864 metres. Mount Huangshan and its surrounding area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, lush vegetation and incredible views.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Mount Huangshan is known as ‘the loveliest mountain in China’. Even more reason to see it with your own eyes.

79. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in north west Africa. Their highest peak is Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 metres high and located in Morocco.

Its lush valleys, snow-capped peaks and traditional Berber villages make trekking in the Atlas Mountains a fantastic experience.

The Atlas Mountains are a relatively short trip from Marrakech and well deserving of a detour from the charming city.

80. Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc (meaning ‘White Mountain) is located in the Graian Alps, which run between France and Italy.

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and in Europe at 4,808m, and is very popular for hiking, mountaineering, snowboarding and skiing.

Seasoned skiers and snowboarders can hike up and ski or board down in the summer months – beware, the hike up is pretty tough.

81. Yellowstone SuperVolcano, USA

Yellowstone Super Volcano is located in the ethereal Yellowstone National Park , in the northwest of Wyoming, US.

Known for its super-volcanoes, crazily coloured lakes and ever-faithful geysers, Yellowstone might well be the US national park highest on your list of things to do before you die (though maybe Yosemite beats it to the first spot).

82. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

Popocatépetl Volcano is an active volcano located in the Mexico, Puebla and Morelos states in Central Mexico.

At 5,426m high, it is the second-tallest peak in Mexico. You can visit the park surrounding the volcano from Mexico City – bear in mind that it is an active volcano, so you should check before you set out.

83. Mount Vesuvius, Italy

Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Naples, in Campania, Italy. The 1,280m volcano is best known for its eruption in 79AD that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, and being the most densely populated volcanic region in the world.

However, despite the risk, the sight of the beautiful volcano standing tall over the city of Naples is truly amazing. You can undertake the hike to the top independently, or go on a guided hike to take advantage of the local knowledge.

84. Mount Etna, Italy

Mount Etna is a volcano between Messina and Cantania, in Sicily, Italy. At 3,330m high, it is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and Italy’s highest peak south of the Alps. Although it is one of the world’s most active volcano sites, in 2013 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty.

It’s a tough trek to the top, but the views once you get there are worth the sweat.

85. Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on Honshu Island, in the Southwest of Japan. At 3,770 metres tall, it is the highest mountain in Japan.

The mountain is one of Japan’s sacred sites – it’s not unusual for people to make a pilgrimage trek to the top.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, UNESCO has also recognised 25 locations within the Mount Fuji locality to be sites of cultural interest – meaning there’s plenty for you to do when you tick this one off your bucket list.

86. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones, located in the Kilimanjaro National Park in East Tanzania, Africa.

At 5,895 metres above sea level, it is the highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s best-known adventure spots and the hike to the top is a once in a lifetime experience.

87. Mauna Loa, USA

Mauna Loa is an active volcano located in Hawaii, United States. It’s considered to be the Earth’s largest volcano with an impressive 75,000 cubed km volume.

Although Mauna Loa has been erupting for at least 700,000 years and still erupts today, the eruptions are very fluid and tend to be non-explosive, so it is a very safe area to visit.

It’s a tough hike, even by Hawaiian standards, but when else will you get to climb the world’s largest volcano?

88. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia, and is part of the Tengger massif, a volcano complex.

Sitting in the middle of a plain of sand, the beautiful 2300m volcano provides visitors with unparalleled views, which can be reached by taking a 2 hour walk to the top. Head up at night to catch sunrise at the top – an unforgettable experience.

89. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

Thrihnukagigur Volcano is a dormant volcano near Reykjavík, Iceland, that covers 3,270 square metres and is 213m deep.

Opening to tourists in 2012, it is the only volcano in the world where you can take a lift down into the magma chamber. Such an incredible sight is totally deserving of a spot on your bucket list.

90. Mount Helen, USA

Mount Helen is an active volcano located in Skamania County in Washington State, United States – less than 100 miles away from Seattle. Mount St Helens is well known for its ash explosions and flows of gas and volcanic matter, especially during the notorious 1980 eruption.

The huge volcano is located in the Cascade Range which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a group of 452 active volcanoes dotted around the rim of the Pacific, all prone to eruption.

There are more than 200 miles of trails in the surrounding area – allowing you to see a different side of the volcano on two feet.

91. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is a game reserve in Narok County in Kenya, Africa, that neighbours the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

It is famous for its wonderful animals and wildlife, including African leopards and Kenyan cheetahs, Masai lions, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and over 470 species of bird. It is perfect for the animal lover.

Heading on a safari into the Masai Mara is one of the most popular travel bucket list ideas – when are you going to tick it off yours?

92. Amazon Rainforest, South America

The Amazon Rainforest is a rainforest that expands over Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, in South America.

The whole thing encompasses a huge 7 million square kilometres, and is home to 16,000 species of 390 billion trees, 2.5 million insect species and 2,000 mammal and bird species.

Eco-friendly luxury lodges, steamer boat cruises, incredible hikes – the only problem you’ll have when it comes to planning your trip to the Amazon is how much you can fit into the time you have.

93. The Serengeti, Tanzania / Kenya

The Serengeti is a region in Africa, expanding over northern Tanzania and in the south of Kenya, over 30,000 square kilometres.

The Serengeti is renowned for its large lion population, including 70 large mammal species, such as buffalos and gazelles, and 500 bird species, as well as a range of surroundings with everything from swamps to grasslands.

Book a safari for an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

94. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of islands located in the Pacific Ocean over the Equator, such that the islands are in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere.

The islands are well known for their wildlife that are unique to just them, including giant tortoises, Galapagos finches and penguins, Galapagos hawks, fur seals and blue-footed boobies.

Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and see the islands in their full glory on a several-day boat tour.

95. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast in Queensland, Australia.

The reef system, which stretches over a nearly 350,000 square kilometre area, comprises over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, this colourful place is home to millions of creatures, including dolphins, whales, fish, turtles and birds. 

On a sourer note, the Great Barrier Reef is being destroyed due to climate change, so who knows how much longer it will be around for? This beautiful place deserves a top spot on your list of things to do before you die.

96. Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Island is a 390 square kilometre island, located in the middle of the Flores Sea and part of the Republic of Indonesia.

Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this beautiful island is home to many species, including Javan deer, water buffalo and the 3km long Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth.

Komodo Dragons are notoriously dangerous but spying them in their natural habitat is a memorable experience.

97. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park might not be South Africa’s best-known safari destination (that title has to go to Kruger), but it’s the one I loved the most.

Tucked away in the beautiful Addo region in the Eastern Cape, the Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big Seven (the big five plus Southern Whales and Great White Sharks) thanks to its ocean territory.

Safari in Addo Elephant National Park

98. The Danum Valley, Malaysia

The Danum Valley is located in Sabah Forest, Borneo, Malaysia . The 438 square kilometre Conservation Area is known for its Bornean orangutans, gibbons, 270 species of bird and the rare East Sumatran rhinos.

People come from all over to see these special creatures, and it is definitely worth a spot on your bucket list.

99. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island is an island off the coast of South Australia. The island is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including the Kangaroo Island Kangaroo, the Tammar Wallaby and Rosenberg’s Sand Goanna, which are all native to the island, as well as non-native creatures such as sea lions and koalas.

Visit the island to experience its wild and rugged beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities galore.

100. Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert is a savanna in Southern Africa that extends for over 900,000 square kilometres over Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.

The Kalahari Desert is home to hundreds of exotic species of animals including brown hyenas, meerkats, the Kalahari lion, and many species of reptiles and birds.

A trip to the Kalahari is like stepping into another universe – one that will provide you will snaps (and memories) you’ll never forget.

There we are, 100 places for your travel bucket list. How many have you ticked off?

Looking For More Ideas for Your Bucket List?

• 100 Places to Visit in Europe You Shouldn’t Miss
• 100 Places to Visit in South America – The South America Bucket List
• UK Bucket List Ideas 

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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I alway love these kinds of lists. But “100” is an arbitrary number. Better to list the top things and get a list as long or short as it turns out to be. A few conspicuous omissions from the list: Antarctica; Madagascar’s Spiny Forest; slave forts of Ghana; underground stone-carved churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia; the palace complex and surrounds in Bangkok; and maybe the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. List should include a section on tribal people and unique cultures such as the tribes of the Omo Valley in SE Ethiopia and the Inuit of Canada, etc.; famous scenic train trips; best rivers & fjords to navigate. Nevertheless, a fun list! Have seen 61 of these, plan to see 15 still on my list. 23 others are nice but I don’t plan to see. 4 of them I have no interest in. (Been to a number of the countries the items are in, but not to see the listed items.)

Thanks for the suggestions – some really interesting ones there – if we update the piece, we’ll be sure to take your additions on board.

Colosseum is in Italy, not Greece (number 19), though it does mention Rome.

Great spot – obviously a typo slipped in there. Clearly meant to say Italy as I reference Rome 4 times in the para.

Um. Yosemite, then out to Hwy 395 in the Eastern Sierra of CA.

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101 Cities to Visit Before you Die (PART ONE)

Out of all the places I have been in the world as a full time travel blogger, “where is your favourite place?” is a question I have never been able to answer definitively. Thus I present to you my series of “101 Places to Visit Before you Die”, covering the very best cities, towns, hotels, experiences, and everything travel related to make your bucket list complete. The first in this series highlights the absolute best cities to visit before you die, from the clichés through to the best kept secrets this world has to offer!

The best cities to visit before you die

1. st petersburg, russia.

The history and sheer opulence of Russia’s imperial capital will leave you speechless. Made great by Peter the Great himself, St Petersburg was the beating heart of Russia un till 1918, when the government bodies moved to Moscow. To this day the city presents itself as a time capsule, showing insight into Russia’s imperial past – complete with palaces, nobility residences and iconic monuments. Be sure to step inside the Hermitage Museum (pictured) for a glimpse in to the legacy of Russian royalty and aristocratic culture.

2. New York, USA

A world in itself, there is no city in the world that will ever come close to New York . Whether you’re eating pasta in  Little Italy,  celebrating New Year in  China Town  or cafe hunting your way through Brooklyn, you can most certainly be forgiven for forgetting your place in the world. Bright lights, yellow cabs and art deco architecture are just the beginning of your New York Minute.

3. Paris, France

What would any list of the best cities in the world be without my favourite city of all;  Paris . Known also as the city of light, Paris is a hopeless romantic’s dream (myself included). Be it cruising down the Seine with a croissant and glass of bubbles in hand or kicking back at the Eiffel Tower for sunset (also with some variety of pastry and bubbles in hand), there really isn’t any way you cannot enjoy yourself in Paree!

4. Istanbul, Turkey

Formerly Byzantium and later Constantinople, the modern-day Istanbul  is an eclectic mix of old meets new you cannot find elsewhere in the world (well, you can, but believe me… not like this!!!) This city is unlike any other in the way it captures all of your senses at once – in streams of colour, wafting spices, beautiful textures, delicious Turkish street food and of course the call to prayer.

5. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Colourful in every sense of the world,  Rio De Janeiro is a party city regardless of the day of the week or hour in the day! This city also has hands-down one of the most mesmerising sunsets you will ever experience in a life time (hint: its on top of sugarloaf mountain).

6. Rome, Italy

All roads lead to  Rome!  There’s no city in the world as impressive and imperial as ancient Rome, so if you haven’t ticked it off your bucket list yet, you know you’ve gotta put it at the forefront of your travel list. Not only are there incredible sights to see, but there’s also an abundance of atmosphere to soak up, from the passionate sporting crowds to the alfresco dining scene.

7. Tallinn, Estonia

Medieval and mysterious,   Tallinn is by far one of the most underrated cities in all of Europe (though rapidly gaining in popularity!) Located just a short two-hour ferry ride from the Finnish capital of Helsinki, Tallinn is easy to discover in a day, particularly if you plan to visit the Old Town. Estonia has much more to offer beyond the capital, so if you’re looking for an off the beaten path exploration, be sure venture beyond Tallinn itself.

8. Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver  is a strong contender for the coolest city in Canada (if you ask me, it is!) Many hit tv shows and movies are filmed here, so you should be able to find plenty of inspiration to visit! Gastown is arguably where its at [whatever “it” is]. But seriously, this is one city stopover that cannot be beat.

9. Prague, Czech Republic

As a top choice on any traveller’s first European tour, I’m sure you’ve heard many friends boast of  Prague  or have even visited or yourself (if you haven’t, you absolutely should!) This is by far one of the most mesmerising cities in the entire world, especially at dusk and down with the eery baroque statues on Charles Bridge lingering in the shadows. Be sure to allow at least a few days if not four to explore Prague as there is plenty to discover beyond the Old Town and it is a great start to exploring the rest of Czech Republic.

10. Vienna, Austria

Perhaps my favourite city in Central Europe (though Budapest is a strong contender), you can’t skip out on a visit to  Vienna . The capital of Austria is imperial, imposing, and most of all, down right impressive. There are oodles of cultural activities on offer to keep you busy for at least a few days, starting with the Belvedere Art Museum, through to a visit to the Opera and the colourful creation that is Hundertwasserhaus.

11. Brugges, Belgium

Brugges is hands down one of the most romantic towns in all of Europe  (and doesn’t everyone know it!?) As one of the most talked about small cities in Europe, Brugges has become a major drawcard for travellers to Belgium, but this is one of few instances where the crowds are worth dealing with. The better the weather, the bigger the crowds… but if you don’t mind getting a bit wet, a visit outside of the tourist season will allow you to enjoy the city almost all to yourself!

12. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona has a well-earned reputation as the most vibrant city in Spain, introducing travellers to Catalonian culture, heritage and of course, food! Throughout the city you will be spoiled with Gaudi architecture, presenting itself as a mini treasure hunt as you walk from one intriguing exterior to another. Gaudi park is, of course, the crowning jewel of said treasure hunt, perched high over the city and offering one of the best views from above.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is particularly inspiring to me, as I’m sure it is for other fellow  Harry Potter fans . Not only is this where J. K. Rowling wrote much of the Harry Potter series, but it is also where she sourced much of the inspiration for the books. As a result, there are iconic locations dotted throughout the city for you to discover and let your imagination run wild.

14. Budapest, Hungary

A few years ago I named  Budapest the most underrated city in all of Europe and while I stand by what I said at the time, Budapest has most certainly become “rated” and incredibly popular over the last few years (and with good reason!) Budapest has the architectural beauty of the likes of Paris, however, a dark past through WWII gives it a raw edge and presents many different pockets throughout the city.

15. Stockholm, Sweden

Effortlessly stylish and with one of the most quaint old towns you will find in Europe,  Stockholm  is hands down my favourite city in Northern Europe (though the next city on this list gives it a run for its money!) Gamla Stan (old town) is a fairy tail in itself, with postcard-worthy door entrances, colourful building exteriors and an endless supply of charming boutiques to discover. Elsewhere in Stockholm, there is much more to discover, with the cities’ notorious fashion and design-centric population, appealing particularly to a younger crowd of up and coming designers, entrepreneurs and tech innovations. Oh, and the coffee is good!

16. Copenhagen, Denmark

My other favourite city in Northern Europe is the equally picturesque capital of Denmark;  Copenhagen . Although this city has a reputation for being incredibly expensive (which is no exaggeration), a few days to explore Copenhagen is well worth the length your dollar will stretch.

17. Cape Town, South Africa

Back in the Southern hemisphere is a city that captures hearts like it is nobodies business… the iconic city of Cape Town , with its’ colonial harbour front, Table Cape backdrop, and a reputation for up and coming boutiques, designers, coffee shops and more. Cape Town is also a great base to explore the more romantic side to South Africa, with the Cape Winelands just a short drive away and the impressive peninsula waiting to be explored.

18. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is by far and large the most romantic city in the world for me, especially before sunrise when you can enjoy the streets almost all to yourself. With its canal waterways, wonky houses and bike culture, there really is no city in the world that competes.

19. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Visiting Mostar might not be on top of your travel list, but as soon as you discover the hidden treasure that is Bosnia and Herzegovina you’ll be so glad you did. One of the best-kept secrets in Europe, B&H has an emerging tourism culture that is better experienced now, before the crowds outweigh the localised experience still on offer. The best way to visit Mostar is to spend a couple of days here, combined with a tour around the country. That way you can beat the “day crowds” that emerge from neighbouring Dubrovnik and experience this small city that has a lot to offer, particularly on the fringe of the summer season when crowds are limited.

20. London, United Kingdom

La la la  London ! With its red phone booths, black cabs and double-decker buses, no city is quite as iconic as frequently the “most visited city in the world”, London. Beyond the monopoly board, there is much to discover, particularly when venturing into central London to enjoy the likes of Shoreditch and its’ quirky weekend markets. My personal favourite city for a stopover, there’s always something happening to be it a new theatre show on West End, a new exhibition at one of the many free-to-enter museums, or an endless list of concerts to attend being such a popular, international hub.

21. Jerusalem, Israel

My visit to Jerusalem was not without controversy, but politics aside a visit to the Holy Land is truly a once in a lifetime experience that will be incomparable to all others. What struck me on my visit to Jerusalem was to see biblical references in the flesh and walk on the very same pavement I thought could only be read about. This eye-opening experience offered a unique insight into much more than my own religion, with a visit to the Western Wall and the sounds of the call to prayer providing a humbling understanding of what can hopefully one day be harmony.

22. Lisbon, Portugal

The sleepy seaside image gets a shake up when you meet  Lisbon . Colourful and full of vibrancy, there are so many reasons that Lisbon has become one of my favourite European cities and I’m sure will make your list of faves, too. Begin with a half day visit to Belem, where you can enjoy the famous Portuguese Tarts, so famous in fact that they arrive in your hands warm and fresh from the oven due to such high demand! From there make your way through Alfama, the most instagrammable neighbourhood in town with its colourful doors, pot plants and incredible views of the city. If you have more time, be sure to rent a car and make your way South to the Algarve, one of my favourite seaside vacation spots in all of Europe.

23. Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is another world. With a unique culture unlike any other, the smells, sights and sounds of Morocco are best on display in Marrakesh, where the hustle and bustle of travellers and locals collide. Be sure to grab yourself a freshly squeezed orange juice from the Medina, before making your way inside the Souks (and prepare to get lost, this place is nuts!)

24. Salzburg, Austria

Romantic and renowned for its’ Sound of Music  claim to fame,  Salzburg is a must-visit city in Austria that deserves much more than a day trip from Vienna. Each time I have visited Salzburg I have allowed myself a few days to discover its little pockets of magic, especially if you can time yourself a visit here in winter. The Christmas Markets here are my favourite in all of Europe, complete with light snowfall, an ice skating rink and horse-drawn sleighs (seriously, this place is a fairytale come to life!)

25. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Game of Thrones fans rejoice, Dubrovnik is one pitstop on your European adventure that cannot be missed! This seaside city is renowned for its role in the series, but before the time of GOT was quickly gaining popularity for its iconic terracotta rooftops, fortified city walls and unique geographic location as part of a larger Croatian yachting itinerary. There are many incredible things to see and do in Croatia so be sure to allow a week or more to explore!

26. Milan, Italy

Milan is far from my favourite city in Italy, but it is not without its own beauty! Home to one of the most impressive cathedrals in the entire world, Milan is a great stopover city for a day visit or overnight, particularly if travelling en route to the likes of Lake Como or beginning a journey through the length of Italy.

27. Kiev, Ukraine

It was at seventeen years of age when I visited Kiev, the capital of the Ukraine and one of the most unique cities I have ever visited. Back then (now 9 years ago) very few travellers were venturing East throughout Europe, and if they were, they were headed for the likes of St Petersburg or Moscow, not the likes of Kiev. But the beauty of this city is just that – not many foreigners flock here, giving travellers a unique insight in to the former USSR, with insightful museums and Orthodox cathedrals. It is sort of like visiting a place that time forgot and in many ways these are my favourite destinations.

28. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is another favourite city of mine that offers itself in a time capsule to visitors. After the 1990’s fallout, Serbia has been overlooked by travellers for quite some time, however I chose to visit after a friend assured me Belgrade was “one of the most beautiful cities in the most surreal of ways”. Right he was. Belgrade is best visited in the Spring or Summer, when locals make use of their al fresco dining culture, flocking to the river for a range of pop-up restaurants and bars.

29. Melbourne, Australia

My personal favourite city in my home country Australia,  Melbourne is a city that should not be missed off any first time traveller’s visit to Oz. Not only does Melbourne have the best coffee in the world (if you ask me which yes, is riddled with bias), but it also has a great cultural appreciation for great coffee, food and the atmosphere in which it is enjoyed. Besides, who can resists a city that meets the sea!?

30. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich  first took my heart at 20 years of age, when I visited solo as my first introduction to Switzerland (and boy, what an intro!) Known as one of the prettiest cities in Switzerland, Zurich is beautiful any time of year (even in winter!)

31. Muscat, Oman

Muscat offers an insight into Middle Eastern culture in a more realistic sense that international hubs such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The souks offer trinkets like old compasses, magic lamps and all sorts of trinkets I have not discovered elsewhere in the world (it is akin to stepping back through history to ancient trade routes). If you’re a solo female traveller (like me) and a bit iffy on travelling throughout the Middle East on your own, I found cruising through the Arabian Peninsula a great way to experience the ports with ease and peace of mind.

32. Sydney, Australia

Sydney is my second favourite city in Australia (Melbourne has my heart) and a must see for any traveller to Oz. With the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge within reach of one another, the sights are easy to explore in just a couple of days, giving you more time to enjoy Australia beyond the major cities (hint: travel North for some incredible beaches and much less crowds).

33. Cusco, Peru

Travelling through the Sacred Valley almost always starts with a visit to Cusco , the base for exploring the valley and of course, Machu Picchu. Cusco itself is worthy of a few days to visit and experience the Peruvian Andes culture, especially if you don’t mind exploring on foot.

34. Bergen, Norway

For as long as I can remember I have wanted to visit the picture-perfect city of Bergen , which appears more like a small seaside village than it does a large city in Norway. The colourful harbour was just as picturesque as I had imagined, however, the real beauty of Bergen lies in the residential neighbourhood lying behind the harbour, providing hours of exploration!

35. Warsaw, Poland

It took me two visits to Poland before I visited the capital, Warsaw , and I had no idea what I was missing out on! Warsaw has experienced a turbulent past, however, the reconstruction of the Old Town will transport you to another time in history, with its well-preserved buildings and public squares. Beyond the old town there is much to learn about the history of communism, starting with Stalin’s “gift” to the city and venturing further to the communist museum, which showcases life during the height of communism.

36. Venice, Italy

Venice is a city like no other. Built on canals and with a renaissance history that trickles in to every aspect of the city, there is so much to discover beyond the impressive architecture and behind closed doors. To make the most of a visit to Venice you will need a good four days to explore, before making your way to neighbouring cities like Verona (which I would also highly recommend!)

37. San Antonio, Texas

It was out of the blue when I decided to travel to San Antonio, having been encouraged by a couple I met in New Zealand that I “absolutely must visit” if I was already travelling to Texas. Right they were. The Pearl neighbourhood was a standout for me, especially if you chance your visit with a weekend when the markets are in full swing.

38. Moscow, Russia

The capital of Russia is one of the cities that surprised me most.  Moscow  is unlike any other, with a history and intricacies to keep you asking questions at every turn. Underneath the city is where the magic continues, with some of the world’s most decorated subway stations.

39. San Francisco, USA

Back over on the West Coast is a city that celebrates Californian culture at its best – colourful, quirky and completely unique are just a few words to describe  San Francisco . Although rents in San Francisco have surpassed those in Manhattan, the city is still relatively affordable to tourists and if you’re willing to seek out various neighbourhoods and their hot spots, you’ll find the SF you’re looking for.

40. Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest is a calendar event you’ll want to experience once in your lifetime, however Munich has so much more to offer beyond the event if you visit any other time of year. Located in Bavaria, Munich is one of he most picturesque cities in Germany… plus it also has one of Europe’s dreamiest castles nearby!

41. Riga, Latvia

Riga  is another European city that surprised me and to be honest, I’m still in shock this little gem in the Baltics isn’t written about more often! Although I only had 24 hours to explore Riga, it left me wanting more and to explore more of Riga, a country that had not previously been on my radar. If you’re looking for somewhere off the beaten path and especially if you find yourself on a budget, the Baltics are a great place to start.

42. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is often overlooked by travellers for being off the popular train routes (its funny what a little bit of water will do to people), but believe me when I say the gateway to Europe is quite possibly one of my favourite cities to enjoy! If you’re up for a bit of fun (think pubs and lots of them), Dublin is a great weekend destination, or can be enjoyed in 24 hours if you’re beginning a larger Irish adventure.

43. The Vatican, Vatican City

Visitors to Rome should be sure not to miss a visit to the Pope’s very own state; The Vatican. Regardless of your beliefs (or non-beliefs), the centre of the Catholic Church is a world in itself and offers a genuine insight in to views that have shaped our world today.

44. Alesund, Norway

I was a little bit more than a little bit obsessed with Alesund , a small seaside city on the coast of Norway. Complete with Art Nouveau architecture and a postcard-like appeal, Alesund quickly became my top pick as the prettiest Norwegian destination on my 10 day cruise through the fjords.

45. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Chances are you haven’t heard of Ljubljana , my current pick for the most underrated city in all of Europe. The capital of Slovenia has the charming appeal of the likes of Paris, albeit in a much smaller, condensed space that is in all seriousness walkable within the hour. Throughout summer this city really comes to life, with riverside al fresco dining a plenty and tourists are at a minimum in comparison to other European capitals.

46. Los Angeles, USA

Love it or hate it (personally I’m a lover), Los Angeles is still one of the cities in the world you absolutely must visit once in your lifetime. You’ll soon discover Hollyweird isn’t quite what it is cracked up to be, but fear not, nearby West Hollywood is a great place to base yourself for explorations. Don’t miss a visit to Downtown LA, Santa Monica and Venice Beach for an overall insight into the Californian culture.

47. Hong Kong

Hong Kong was the first international city I ever visited and has become the city I have visited most. Each visit brings something new: higher skyscrapers, expanding neighbourhoods, new restaurants and a continually evolving social scene. If you’re looking for an accurate depiction of East meets West, there’s no better city to stopover in for a few days than Hong Kong.

48. La Paz, Bolivia

I could not believe my luck when the plane touched down in La Paz , the capital of Bolivia that is also the highest city in the world to fly in to. La Paz is the kind of city you have to pinch yourself to know is real, because every aspect is still so untouched, non-Westernised and completely foreign. No, there are no McDonalds.

49. Reykjavik, Iceland

The beginning of any Iceland adventure almost always begins in Reykjavik , the land of Vikings and mysterious tales that will let your imagination run wild. But this city is best visited as a first port of call for a larger Icelandic adventure, for there is so much to see in what has rapidly become one of the world’s biggest hot spot tourist destinations.

50. Tokyo, Japan

It is hard to imagine a list of the best cities to visit before you die without including Tokyo . With plenty of quirk on offer, Tokyo is the kind of city that will never bore you with the likes of Robot restaurants, cat cafes and so much more.

Where are your favourite cities in the world? Sound off below or follow my adventures on Instagram.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

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I have been to 7 cities on top 10, 10 cities on top 20, and 19 cities on top 50 so I am a world traveler seeing different places and cultures. I agreed with some cities ranking but I think the author overlooked the beauty from Asia. i.e. Bangkok in Thailand and Beijing in China each presenting its unique architecture and culture. Although the following cities are beautiful but due to their small sizes (I have not been to but I watched videos) 7. Tallinn, Estonia 11. Brugges, Belgium 13. Edinburgh, England 19. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina I don’t think …  Read more »

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51 Breathtaking Places To Visit Before You Die

This world is full of beautiful attractions both natural and man-made to visit in this lifetime. From historical sights to natural landmarks to wildlife, there is a lot to explore all over the world. Obviously, one life is not enough to experience all the beautiful places in the world, but at least you can visit some of the most amazing ones before you die. Therefore, if you are a traveler who loves to explore new places then see below our list of 51 most amazing places to visit before you die.

Top Must Visit Attractions Around the World – Places To Visit Before You Die

1 antelope canyon, usa.

Antelope Canyon tops our list of best places to visit before you die. You can book a tour and experience this stunning place with your friends and family.

2 Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

One of the major attractions of Thailand is Phi Phi Islands. Located between Phuket and Malacca coast, this group of islands attract millions of visitors every year.

3 Santorini, Greece

Santorini is another stunning attraction which one must visit in lifetime. It features multicolored cliffs topped by the whitewashed buildings, volcanic sand beaches and spectacular sunsets.

4 Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Located in Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat. This salt flat was formed as a result of lakes which were evaporated long time ago. Every year, millions of tourists visit this natural landmark and it should definitely be on your list of places to visit before you die.

5 The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Located in Gaza, Egypt; these pyramids attract millions of tourists each year who visit this place to witness the ancient landmark.

6 Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling Asia and Europe, Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist attractions full of stunning islands, hundreds of years old mosques, Ottoman palaces and vibrant markets. Add Istanbul to your bucket list of places to visit before you die.

7 Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Located in Northeastern side of Australia, Great Barrier Reef is the world’s most famous and largest coral reef. The Reef is home to a number of fishes, turtles, sharks and dolphins. Visit this place and enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, helicopter scenic tours, cruise ship and many other activities.

8 Sea of Stars, Maldives

Vadhoo Island in Maldives features the magical sea of stars. This sea is full of bioluminescence that looks like stars glowing at night. This surreal place deserves a spot on your list of places to visit before you die.

9 Portofino, Italy

Portofino is a beautiful fishing village located in Southeast of Genoa, Italy. It is famous for its colored houses, boutiques, restaurant and surreal views and should be included in places to visit before you die.

10 Jellyfish Lake, Eli Malik, Palau

Palau’s unique Jellyfish Lake has been on the bucket list of travelers from all around the world. Visit this place and experience snorkeling with the stunning golden jellyfishes.

11 The Twelve Apostles, Australia

Located along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, the Twelve Apostles are one of the major highlights of Australia. These are a collection of limestone pillars surrounded by breathtaking views. Definitely one of the best places to visit before you die!

12 Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

Be amazed by thousands of glowworms above you as you ride in your boat through this stunning cave.

13 Grand Canyon National Park, USA

Grand Canyon National Park features the stunning red rocks which are hundreds of years old. You can view this ancient landmark through a number of ways; helicopter, airplane and bus. Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders in the world which you should not miss.

14 Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti in Tanzania is the world’s most treasured ecosystem. Famous for its wildlife, this place attracts a large number of visitors every year. It is home to many animals including elephants, giraffes, elands, impalas and the big cats.

15 Lavender Fields, France

Do you want to witness stunning and fragrant lavender fields? Then you should visit the Provence in France. Provence features some of the most beautiful lavender fields from early July to beginning of August. Visit this place and have a memorable experience before you die!

16 Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is a historical region in Anatolia, Turkey which is famous for cone-shaped stunning rock formations and fairy chimneys. This place also features a number of underground cities. Visit this stunning place and enjoy guided tours and hot air balloon ride to witness its beauty to the fullest.

17 Moraine Lake, Canada

Moraine Lake is considered as one of the top lakes in the world. This surreal lake is located in Banff National Park in Canada and you should visit this at least once in your lifetime before you die.

18 Taj Mahal, India

Taj Mahal depicts a unique love story of Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan built this stunning monument in the memory of his wife. Located in Agra in India, Taj Mahal attracts millions of tourist from all over the world.

19 Petra, Jordan

Petra in Jordan is a popular archaeological site dating back to 300 B.C. featuring a number of tombs, temples and cliffs. You can access this stunning site through a narrow canyon.

20 The Great Wall, China

The Great Wall of China is one of the famous wonders of the world which is also listed in World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. You should visit this place with your friends and family at least for once before you die.

21 Amazon Rainforest, South America

Amazon Rainforest is the world’s largest rainforest famous for its thousands of species including plants, fishes, mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians.

22 Machu Picchu, Peru

Built in 15 th  century in Peru, Machu Picchu is an ancient site which stands around 2400 m above the sea level and is one of the most stunning attractions in the world. Visit this stunning attraction with your loved ones before you die.

23 Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is a group of 3 volcanic cones. It is the highest mountain in Africa and definitely should be on your wish list of places to visit before you die.

24 Benagil Cave, Algarve, Portugal

Benagil Cave is the stunning rock formation of Portugal. You can enjoy a boat tour to this place which will also take you to many other stunning caves in the area.

25 Ephesus, Turkey

Turkey is full of stunning historical sites and one of the major highlights is Ephesus which used to be an ancient Greek city. You’ll be amazed to see how wonderful this city from 10 th  century B.C. still looks.

26 Venice, Italy

Do you want to travel to a city where there are no roads? Then travel to Venice which is built on more than 100 islands. This romantic place features stunning canals where you can enjoy gondola rides with your better half.

27 Bagan, Myanmar

Built in 9 th  century, Bagan is an ancient city which features more than 2,000 monuments. It is worth a visit before you die.

28 Hang Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

Vietnam is full of natural attractions and one of them is Hang Son Doong Cave. Visit this place and have a memorable experience of your lifetime.

29 Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan

Visit the Hitachi Seaside Park in spring season in Japan and witness the gorgeous flowers blooming all over the park.

30 Tianzi Mountain, China

Located in the Hunan Province of China, Tianzi Mountain is one of the most beautiful attractions in the world. Visit this might mountain which was formed around 400 million years ago.

31 Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge is a historic monument that is located in England. It consists of a group of standing stones which are around 13 feet high. This historic site attracts a large number of tourists every year.

32 Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is a largest religious monument in the world. This temple is a major highlight of Cambodia and is a source of their pride.

33 Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

Niagara Falls is the name given for the three waterfalls that are present at the international border between Canada and the United States. The 3 falls together form the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. You can reach there via Buffalo, USA or from Toronto, Canada.

34 Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Australia is full of beautiful beaches and islands. One of them is Whitehaven Beach which consists of pure white sand and clear blue water. Located in Whitsunday Island, this beach is only accessible by helicopter, seaplane or boat.

35 Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

Tunnel of Love in Ukraine is a 1.8 mile long train tunnel. Lovers visit this tunnel to make a wish and even for photo shoots. If you are in Ukraine, then don’t miss this stunning passageway.

36 Trolltunga, Norway

Trolltunga is a one of the most stunning cliffs situated around 1100 meters above the sea level in Norway. You can visit this place and enjoy the surreal views in the surrounding or you can even do camping on the edge of the rock formation.

37 Mendenhall Ice Caves of Juneau, Alaska

Mendenhall Ice Caves are inside the Mendenhall Glacier which is around 12 mile long. The stunning ice caves are only accessible through kayaking.

38 Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

Eilean Castle is one of the most spectacular castles in Scotland. It is located on an island surrounded by the mountains. If you are into historical castles, then mention this place in your list of places to visit before you die.

39 Mount Roraima, Venezuela

Mount Roraima in Venezuela is one of the oldest mountains of earth dating back to more than billion years ago. This magnificent mountain is situated 1200 feet above the floor and includes the borders of Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana.

40 Skaftafell Ice Cave, Iceland

Iceland is a land full of breathtaking locations attracting millions of people each year. Located in Vatnajokull Glacier region, Skaftafell Ice Cave should be on your travel list of places to visit before you die. Book your tour in advance and enjoy the most beautiful experience inside the cave. For more information on Iceland visit our blog

41 Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

Located in Moscow, Russia, Saint Basil’s Cathedral is the most popular colorful Cathedral. If you plan to visit Russia, than you should visit this place before you die. Make sure to take your camera with you as this cathedral is too beautiful to not take photos.

42 Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland. Located in the breathtaking setting, this place is the major highlight of Iceland attractions.

43 Waterfall Castle, Poland

This stunning waterfall castle is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Poland. If you are a traveler who loves to visit new places, then this should be on your bucket list.

44 Faroe Islands

Faroe Islands is my current favorite place which I also want to visit before I die and you should visit it too. You should visit this place and experience its breathtaking beauty.

45 Udaipur, India

Udaipur is known for its artificial lakes and royal residence which you will find all around the city. It is also known as “Venice of East” due to its beauty and historical monuments.

46 Kakslauttanen Glass Igloos, Finland

Do you want to spend a night in igloos? Then make your dream come true as Finland offers you this memorable experience which you should definitely avail before you die.

47 Chefchaouen, Morocco

Chefchaouen in Morocco is a beautiful town famous for its white and blue buildings. Book your tickets now and witness the beauty of Morocco with your loved ones.

48 Pamukkale, Turkey

Your trip to Turkey is incomplete without visiting its Cotton Castle known as Pamukkale. Founded in around 190 B.C., Pamukkale is famous for its thermal waters and white terraces.

49 Lake Louise, Canada

If you are writing down the list of places to visit before  you die, then do mention Lake Louise in Canada. Located in the most famous Banff National Park, this lake definitely needs a place on the list of places to visit before you die.

50 Queenstown, New Zealand

New Zealand is no short of places for its visitors who travel from all over the world. One of the major highlights of New Zealand is its stunning Queenstown which features many adventurous activities to its tourists including scenic helicopter flights over snowy mountains, bungee jumping, gondola rides, shotover jet, Lord of the Rings filming location and the most famous Milford Sound.

51 Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska

Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska features the famous Denali Mountain. In addition to that, it also contains lush green parks and many wild animals who wander around in this area.

The list is never ending but I have summarized the best places to visit before you die. Do let us know in comments if you have a favorite place missing from the list!

Happy travels.

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Top 7 Must-Visit Places Before You Kick the Bucket

① turkmenistan’s burning “gateway to hell”.

H ow much do we know about our planet? Earth is full of magnificent and mysteriously beautiful places that sometimes feel otherworldly. However, the accessible destinations are limited. Check the “Top 7 Amazing Places to Visit Before You Die.”

Turkmenistan is a country located in the southwestern part of Central Asia. In the middle of the Karakum Desert lies the “Burning Gateway to Hell.” This place has been continuously burning for over 48 years since 1971.

The sight of flames shooting up from a crater about 70 meters in diameter on the surface resembles a gateway to hell, hence the name “Burning Gateway to Hell.”

It was created in 1971 when Soviet geologists were drilling a hole about 70 meters deep to extract natural gas. The ground collapsed during the process, resulting in the formation of the crater. Attempts to extinguish the fire caused by releasing toxic gases from the hole were unsuccessful, and the fire continued to burn. In April 2010, the President of Turkmenistan visited the site and ordered the fire extinguished, but the “Gateway to Hell” remains burning. Visiting this place might send shivers down your spine, and it’s sure to give you an exhilarating feeling.

② Breathtaking Landscapes That Leave You Speechless

Torres del Paine National Park is located in southernmost Chilean Patagonia. Despite its remote location, it is a popular tourist destination due to its majestic scenery and natural beauty. The park features magnificent views of glaciers and perpetual snow-capped mountains.

This place is considered one of the ten most beautiful national parks in the world and made it to the top 50 places you must visit before you die.

Alongside the Himalayas in Nepal and the Sahara Desert in North Africa, it is often considered one of the “most beautiful places on Earth” hidden by the gods.

Lake Baikal in Siberia, Russia, is famous for being the cleanest lake in the world. Its crystal-clear waters have earned it the nickname “The Blue Eye of Earth.”

It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 and is a representative tourist destination in Siberia. An astonishing phenomenon can be observed in winter when the lake freezes over. Massive, transparent ice clusters form on the lake’s surface, creating an otherworldly spectacle.

The vivid and beautiful Grand Prismatic Spring symbolizes the United States Yellowstone National Park. It boasts the largest and most splendid appearance among the approximately 3,000 springs in the park.

On sunny days, the steam rising from the spring reflects rainbows, creating a breathtaking sight. The color of the spring changes according to its natural temperature, displaying various shades of yellow, magenta, red, and more.

Depending on the depth, the colors also vary, creating a stunning visual display that captivates the eyes of tourists.

③ Mysterious and Eerie Places

Located in Nevada, USA, the Fly Geyser is a place that evokes a unique and mysterious feeling in many people. Its peculiar form gives it an overwhelming appearance, almost as if you were on an alien planet.

A geyser is a phenomenon that occurs when high-temperature water or steam from deep underground meets with average-temperature groundwater. The Fly Geyser continuously shoots out hot geothermal water at about 1.5 meters, thoroughly soaking the surrounding area. This geyser was discovered by chance during geothermal energy exploration in 1964 and has maintained its mysterious appearance ever since. Unfortunately, tourism is restricted due to its location on private land and the water temperature exceeding 90 degrees.

The Rio Tinto River , known as the “Little Mars,” flows southwest of Spain. The name “Rio Tinto” means “red water” in Spanish.

The river is renowned for its reddish color, making it one of Earth’s most mysterious places. In the past, it was a mining area, and the red color is due to the mineral components coming from the mining sites around the river. The water contains a lot of iron, making it hazardous, so caution is advised.

Lastly, the McMurdo Dry Valleys, also known as the “Antarctica Desert,” is a vast valley in Victoria Land, Antarctica. Remarkably, it is one of the few places in Antarctica where snow and ice are rarely seen. It has not experienced rainfall in two million years, and the scant 10cm of snow that falls every year quickly turns into gas.

Despite this, the valley has an extraordinary feature: an everlasting pond. Many are intrigued by this phenomenon. Underground, transparent ice layers, which can reach several hundred meters in depth, fill the pond. Even though it is filled with seawater that contains six times more salt than seawater, it remains frozen, presenting an enigmatic and mysterious sight.

April 5, 2024

15 Incredible Places To Visit Before You Die

Part of what makes life beautiful is that we only have a limited time on Earth. That means we should take every opportunity to explore the world and collect memories that will stay with us forever. This list includes worldwide destinations to mark off your bucket list.

1. Amtrak Zephyr Line — USA

If you’re not strapped for time, traveling out West by train is a trip you won’t regret. The Zephyr Route starts in Denver, Colorado, and ends in Emeryville, California. Rolling through the Rockies and Sierra Nevada Mountains is an unforgettable journey, with some of the most spectacular scenery the United States has to offer.

2. Cherry Blossom Season — Japan

Each year, millions of travelers flock to Japan to witness the cherry blossom trees in bloom. The blooms only last a few weeks before falling, so make sure you’re there during peak season, which is late March through May, depending on the region. The blossoms are exquisite, so make sure you have an extra memory card for your phone or camera.

3. Machu Picchu — Peru

These ancient Incan ruins were rediscovered by American archeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911. Machu Picchu is a bucket list destination for many if they’re visiting Peru. How and why the city was abandoned is one of the world’s greatest mysteries.

4. Giant’s Causeway — Northern Ireland

Four miles of basalt columns march along the northern coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. These hexagonal-shaped rocks have formed distinct columns. Legend says they’re the steps of giant Fionn MacCumhaill, who battled the Scottish giant Benandonner, resulting in the Giant’s Causeway.

5. Northern Lights — Canada

The Canadian territory of Yellowknife is one of the best places on the planet to view the Northern Lights year-round. With a low population, a flat landscape, and less ambient light, there’s a 90% chance you’ll see them. Yellowknife is friendly to visitors and offers a good selection of accommodations, activities, and dining options.

6. Vatican City — Italy

Even if you’re not Catholic, you can appreciate the spectacle and wonder of Vatican City. The history alone is enough to evoke a sense of awe. Some of the most famous pieces of art in the world are found here. It can get crowded, but there are tours that promise visitors can “skip the line” to see St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

7. Kalalau Lookout, Kaua`i — Hawai’i

There are many beautiful places in Hawai`i, but Kalalau Lookout on Kauai is truly a wonder. At 4,000 feet above sea level, visitors can look down into Waimea Canyon for stunning views of the mountains and the ocean beyond. Kalalau is a state park and day passes are required to visit.

8. Theatre of Epidaurus — Greece

This theatre is dedicated to the Greek god of medicine in Epidaurus, Greece. The Epidaurus is the most well-preserved theatre in Greece, dating back to the 4th century B.C., with seating for 12,000 people. It’s still used for the occasional concert, since the ancient acoustics are as good as when the amphitheater was constructed.

9. The Serengeti — Africa

Wildlife lovers will love traveling to Tanzania to experience the Serengeti National Park. It’s in partnership with other conservations and reserves and allows you to see some of the most majestic animals on Earth in person. Travelers who have always wanted to go on a safari can find few better locations to see lions, hippos, elephants, leopards, and the African buffalo.

10. Raja Ampat Islands — Indonesia

This archipelago of islands is known locally as The Four Kings, referencing the four main islands. The blue-green waters off the coast of Indonesia are amazing for diving, kayaking, and snorkeling. Divers can experience the pristine coral reef, as well as see about 75% of the world’s aquatic species.

11. The Himalayas — South Asia

The mountain systems that make up The Himalayas are the tallest and most populated. The range covers territory in Bhutan, Nepal, India, Tibet, and northern Pakistan. Trekking up the snow-capped mountains is one of the most dangerous expeditions, but it’s equally breathtaking and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If climbing Mount Everest is on your bucket list, be prepared to save some cash. Expeditions with experienced outfitters cost in the tens of thousands of dollars — or more.

12. Great Ocean Road — Australia

A trip down the Great Ocean Road from Torquay to Allansford Victoria, Australia, will take you through rainforests, along stunning cliffsides, and past world-renowned surf breaks. It’s 150 miles of pure beauty in open country — you can’t get any better than that. Visit a hot springs hotel and take one of the wildlife tours to see some of Oz’s most famous critters including koalas and bandicoots.

13. Siargao — Philippines

This island in the Philippine Sea brings visitors to its white sand beaches to experience its natural beauty. The waters are crystal clear, with coral reefs to explore and deep waters perfect for diving.

14. Zermatt Glacier — Switzerland

Ever wanted to ski in summer? This area in Switzerland, known locally as Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, is a beautiful destination for winter activities even in summer.

15. Danakil Desert — Africa

Danakil Desert, in East Africa, is the hottest place on Earth. Acid just below the Earth’s surface creates stunning colors in vibrant pools of otherworldly beauty. It’s a forbidding place and visitors who want to brave the heat and volcano gases need to book a tour with a group to have a safe, enjoyable experience.

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Using Dual SIM with an eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to use a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical nano-SIM. Learn how to set up and use Dual SIM. 1

How can you use Dual SIM?

Use one number for business and another number for personal calls.

Add a local data plan when you travel outside of the country or region.

Have separate voice and data plans.

Both your phone numbers can make and receive voice and FaceTime calls and send and receive messages using iMessage, SMS, and MMS. 2 Your iPhone can use one cellular data network at a time.

If you want to use 5G with Dual SIM on iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, or iPhone 12 Pro Max, make sure that you have iOS 14.5 or later .

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later with iOS 12.1 or later

A wireless carrier that supports eSIM

To use two different carriers, your iPhone must be unlocked . Otherwise, both plans must be from the same carrier. If a CDMA carrier provides your first SIM, your second SIM won't support CDMA. Contact your carrier for more information.

If you have an enterprise or corporate cellular service plan, check with your company administrator to see if they support this feature.

Set up another cellular plan on your iPhone

Use two phone numbers

Learn about Dual SIM status icons

Change your cellular data number, manage cellular settings.

Erase your eSIM

All iPhone models that support eSIM can have multiple eSIMs and use Dual SIM with two active SIMs at the same time.

You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM. iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray support two active eSIMs.

Learn how to activate a cellular plan on an eSIM .

Label your plans

After your second plan is activated, label your plans. For example, you can label one plan Business and the other plan Personal.

You'll use these labels when you choose which phone number to use for making or receiving calls and messages, to designate a number for cellular data, and to assign a number to your contacts so you know which number you will use.

If you change your mind later, you can change your labels by going to Settings, tapping either Cellular or Mobile Data, and then tapping the number whose label you want to change. Then tap Cellular Plan Label and select a new label or enter a custom label.

Set your default number

Choose a number to use when you call or send a message to someone who isn't in your Contacts app. Choose which cellular plans you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime. You can choose either or both numbers.

On this screen, choose a number to be your default, or you can choose which number is to be used only for cellular data. Your other number will be your default. If you want your iPhone to use cellular data from both plans, depending on coverage and availability, turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching.

Use two phone numbers for calls, messages, and data

Now that your iPhone is set up with two phone numbers, here's how to use them.

Let your iPhone remember which number to use

When you call one of your contacts, you don't need to choose which number to use every time. By default, your iPhone uses the same number that you used the last time you called that contact. If you haven't called that contact, your iPhone uses your default number. You can also specify which number to use for your calls with a contact. Follow these steps:

Tap the contact.

Tap Preferred Cellular Plan.

Tap the number you want to use with that contact.

Make and receive calls

You can make and receive phone calls with either phone number.

When you're on a call, if the carrier for your other phone number supports Wi-Fi calling, you can answer incoming calls on your other number. When you're on a call using a line that isn't your designated line for cellular data, you need to turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching to receive calls from your other line. If you ignore the call and you have voicemail set up with your carrier, you’ll get a missed-call notification and the call will go to voicemail. Check with your carrier for Wi-Fi calling availability and find out whether additional fees or data usage applies from your data provider.

If you're on a call and your other line shows No Service, either your carrier doesn't support Wi-Fi calling or you don't have Wi-Fi calling turned on. 3 It could also mean Allow Cellular Data Switching is not turned on. When you're on a call, an incoming call on your other phone number will go to voicemail if you set up voicemail with your carrier. 4 However, you won't get a missed-call notification from your secondary number. Call Waiting works for incoming calls on the same phone number. To avoid missing an important call, you can turn on call forwarding and forward all calls from one number to the other. Check with your carrier for availability and to find out whether additional fees apply.

Switch phone numbers for a call

You can switch phone numbers before you make a call. If you're calling someone in your Favorites list, follow these steps:

Tap the current phone number.

Tap your other number.

If you're using the keypad, follow these steps:

Enter the phone number.

Tap the phone number, near the top of the screen.

Tap the number you want to use.

Send messages with iMessage and SMS/MMS

You can use iMessage or SMS/MMS to send messages with either phone number. 5 You can choose a number to use before or after you start a conversation. Here's how.

Choose a number before you send an iMessage or SMS/MMS message

Open Messages.

Tap the New button, in the upper-right corner of the screen.

Enter your contact's name.

Switch numbers during a conversation

Tap the number you're using, near the top of the screen.

Choose the number you want to use instead.

The icons in the status bar at the top of the screen show the signal strength of your two carriers. Learn what the status icons mean .

You can see more status icons when you open Control Center .

When Carrier 1 is in use, the other line will show No Service.

The status bar shows that the device is connected to Wi-Fi and Carrier 2 is using Wi-Fi Calling.

With Allow Cellular Data Switching turned on, the status bar shows that Carrier 1 is using 5G, and Carrier 2 is using the cellular data of Carrier 1 and has Wi-Fi calling enabled.

One number at a time can use cellular data. To change which number uses cellular data, follow these steps:

Go to Settings.

Tap either Cellular or Mobile Data.

Tap Cellular Data.

Tap the number you want to use cellular data.

If you turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching, then while you're on a voice call on your voice-only number, that number automatically switches to use voice and data. 6 This lets you use both voice and data while on the call.

If you turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching and you're active on a voice number that isn't your designated cellular-data number, then cellular data won't work while you're on the call.

To turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching, follow these steps:

Tap Mobile Data.

Turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching.

To change your cellular settings for each of your plans, follow these steps:

Tap the number you want to change.

Tap each option and set it as you normally would.

Use Dual SIM with an eSIM and your Apple Watch .

If you can't set up your eSIM or if you have trouble using your eSIM, learn what to do .

eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), and iPhone XS feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao .

This uses Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) technology, which means that both SIMs can make and receive calls.

Or if you're using iOS 12, update to iOS 13 or later to receive calls when you're using your other number.

4. If data roaming is on for the number that uses cellular data, then Visual Voicemail and MMS will be disabled on your voice-only number.

Additional fees might apply. Check with your carrier.

Your data line switches automatically for the duration of your call. This cellular-data switching won't work if you're currently using Data Roaming. Check with your carrier for availability and to find out if additional fees apply.

Explore Apple Support Community

Find what’s been asked and answered by Apple customers.

Contact Apple Support

Need more help? Save time by starting your support request online and we'll connect you to an expert.

The 5 stages of the 2024 total solar eclipse explained for April 8

On Monday (April 8), a total solar eclipse will sweep across the Americas. Here's how it will play out.

Stage 1: First contact

Stage 2: second contact, stage 3: totality, stage 4: third contact, stage 5: fourth contact.

On Monday, April 8, the 2024 total solar eclipse will sweep through the sky over North America. 

While all of North America and Central America will experience at least a partial  solar eclipse , those within a path with a width of approximately 115 miles (185 kilometers) passing over 15 U.S. States. Mexico, and Canada will also witness a totality as the moon entirely covers the disk of the sun.

You can  watch the total solar eclipse live on Space.com . You can also keep up with all the eclipse-related action with our   total solar eclipse 2024 live updates   blog.

Don't be in the dark about the 2024 total eclipse

There are three major types of solar eclipse. A total solar eclipse like that on April 8 occurs when the moon is relatively close to Earth and blocks the entire disk of the sun. 

Because the moon's orbit around our planet is an ellipse, sometimes it is further away and thus appears smaller. An eclipse at these times sees the moon only an obscure part of the solar disk, with the sun appearing as a glowing ring of fire. These events are called annular solar eclipses , and the last one seen over the U.S. occurred on Oct. 14, 2023.

Finally, a partial solar eclipse is an event that happens when the Earth, moon, and sun are not perfectly aligned, resulting in the lunar disk only covering part of our star, making the sun appear as if a bite has been taken out of it. Partial eclipses also happen at the beginning and ending stages of total and annular eclipses.

On April 8, 2024, the moon will be in its new moon phase , and it will look relatively large, meaning it is capable of covering 100% of the sun's disk as viewed from the narrow path of totality. The fraction of the diameter of the sun covered by the moon is known as the magnitude of a solar eclipse . On April 8, 2024, this value will be 1.0566,  according to EclipseWise.com , slightly more than total coverage. 

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NASA has released an interactive map of the total eclipse, which space enthusiasts can use to track the totality as it drifts across the globe. However, location won't be the only factor affecting the appearance of the total solar eclipse on Monday. The eclipse will pass through 5 distinct stages, with each of these phases occurring at different times across different locations.

What are the stages of the annular solar eclipse? 

In the initial stage of the eclipse, the moon will begin to pass in front of the sun, kick-starting a partial solar eclipse. During this phase, the darkened lunar disk of the moon will make the sun appear as if a bite has been taken out of its illuminated face. This "bite" will get bigger and bigger as the totality approaches.

During the first stage of the total solar eclipse, some onlookers will be able to see rapidly moving, long, dark bands called " shadow bands " on the sides of buildings or the ground. Bailey's beads , caused by light streaming through the valleys on the horizon of the moon, may also be visible at the moon's edges during this initial stage. These phenomena repeat during the second partial eclipse that occurs after totality.

On April 8, this stage of the partial eclipse will first be seen near Pu‘uali‘i, Hawaii, at  6:27 a.m. local time (12:27 p.m. EDT, 1627 GMT).

First contact will last for between 70 and 80 minutes, and its conclusion will be marked by a single bright spot, or " diamond ring ," appearing at the edge of the moon. This marks the second contact stage and heralds the oncoming totality. 

On April 8, the total solar eclipse will make landfall at Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, at 9:51 a.m. local time (12:51 p.m. EDT, 16:51 GMT).

Stage 3 and the mid-point of the total solar eclipse is the totality.  At this point, the moon completely covers the solar disk. During the totality of the outer atmosphere of the sun, the corona may become visible as white streamers at the edge of the moon. This region is usually washed out by bright light from the solar surface, the photosphere. The inner atmosphere of the sun, the chromosphere , may be visible as a wispy aura around the edge of the moon.

The totality may also make stars and planets visible in the darkened sky that are usually not visible from America during daylight hours. 

On April 8, the first location to experience totality will be Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico at  11:07 a.m. local time  (2:07 p.m. EDT, 1807 GMT). The first location to experience totality in the U.S. will be Near Florentino Ramos Colonia, Texas, at 1:27 p.m. local time (2:27 p.m. EDT, 1827 GMT).

The duration of the totality depends on the path from which the eclipse is viewed. In Mexico, totality will last for 40 minutes and 43 seconds. Skywatchers in the U.S. will collectively experience totality for 67 minutes and 58 seconds. Onlookers in Canada will experience the totality of the solar eclipse for 34 minutes and 4 seconds.

The fourth stage of the total solar eclipse, third contact, will see the moon start to move away from the disk of the sun, thus ending the totality and starting the second partial eclipse period. Brightening appears on the opposite side of the moon as it did during the second contact period. At this time, skywatchers will get another chance to spot Baily's Beads along the edge of the moon and shadow bands on the buildings and ground around them, with this stage mirroring the second contact stage. 

The total solar eclipse ends on the Atlantic coast at 5:16 p.m. local time (3:46 p.m. EDT, 1946 GMT). 

The fifth and final stage of the total solar eclipse. The moon moves away from the disk of the sun, meaning that at fourth contact, the moon is no longer even partially eclipsing the sun. At this point, 2024's total solar eclipse will be over.

On April 8, on the Atlantic coast of  Newfoundland and Labrador, the partial eclipse phase ends at 6:18 p.m. local time (4:48 p.m. EDT, 2048 GMT).

— A 'horned' comet may be visible during the 2024 total solar eclipse

— How photos of the April 8 solar eclipse will help us understand of the sun's atmosphere

— How fast will April's total solar eclipse travel?

If you intend to view any of these stages, the most important thing to consider is how to safely view it. Looking at the sun without adequate protection at any time is harmful to the eyes, so eclipse watchers should take precautions on Monday. 

Sunglasses, regardless of how dark they are, can't protect the eyes from the effect of the sun, so specialized eclipse glasses made from safe solar filter materials will be needed. If skywatchers intend to watch the event with a telescope, special filters will be needed to make this a safe viewing experience.

Our how to observe the sun safely guide tells you everything you need to know about safe solar observations.

Following the 2024 total solar eclipse, skywatchers in the U.S. will next get the opportunity to see a total solar eclipse on March 30, 2033 . The totality of this eclipse, which will last 2 minutes 37 seconds, will be visible in Alaska. Following this, on Aug. 23, 2044 , a total solar eclipse will be visible from the U.S. states of Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota, as well as from much of Canada.

Under a year later, on Aug.12, 2045 , another total solar eclipse will sweep over the U.S., visible from California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, as well as from the Caribbean, and South America.  

Submit your photos! If you capture a photo of the April 8 total solar eclipse and would like to share it with Space.com's readers, send photos, videos, comments, and your name, location and content usage permission release to [email protected] .

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Robert Lea is a science journalist in the U.K. whose articles have been published in Physics World, New Scientist, Astronomy Magazine, All About Space, Newsweek and ZME Science. He also writes about science communication for Elsevier and the European Journal of Physics. Rob holds a bachelor of science degree in physics and astronomy from the U.K.’s Open University. Follow him on Twitter @sciencef1rst.

No, you didn't see a solar flare during the total eclipse — but you may have seen something just as special

My formal 2024 solar eclipse apology

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