Here Is The One Place You Must See Before You Die In All 50 States
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Sophia
Author
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.
Gulf Shores, AL, USA
Orange Beach, AL, USA
Dauphin Island, AL, USA
There are a lot of great beaches in this country, but Alabama's Gulf Coast offers some of the most incredible white sand, pristine natural environments and gorgeous views to be found on the East Coast. Check out Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Dauphin Island for the best seaside experience. Each one offers something new and beautiful.
Tracy Arm, Alaska, USA
Located near Juneau, this dazzling fjord is over 30 miles long and is guaranteed to steal your heart and breath away. The jewel-green waters and dramatic cliffs are truly stunning, and the Twin Sawyer Glaciers can be spied just beyond the fjord. This is truly a real piece of Alaska.
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San Xavier del Bac Mission, 1950 W San Xavier Rd, Tucson, AZ 85746, USA
Okay, so the Grand Canyon should definitely be on everyone's bucket list. But there are other incredible places in Arizona that deserve a spot on there as well, such as the spectacular San Xavier del Bac. One of the oldest missions in the United States, this chapel is absolutely breathtaking inside and out.
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Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel, 504 Memorial Dr, Bella Vista, AR 72714, USA
Located in Bella Vista, this stunning chapel feels like it grew out of the surrounding forest. Seamlessly blending soaring architecture with the natural beauty of the environment, this is the perfect place to go for worship or just to spend a few quiet moments of reflection.
Santa Catalina Island, California 90704, USA
Just 60 minutes by ferry from Long Beach, Catalina Island feels worlds away. The beautiful harbor, picturesque winding streets, and stunning views will make you feel like you've landed on a romantic European isle.
Maroon Bells, Colorado 81654, USA
This is definitely one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado. Located in the Elk Mountains on the border between Pitkin County and Gunnison County, these spectacular peaks get their name from the mudstone that forms their dramatic ridges and gives them a distinct maroon color. There is bus service to the Bells from Aspen Highlands, but be sure to check the Aspen Highlands website before planning your visit.
Thimble Islands, Branford, CT 06405, USA
These incredible islands are only a ferry ride away from Branford. The islands themselves are rich with fascinating plants and animals, and cruising in the waters around them feels like a vacation in itself. Sunset and dinner cruises are available and definitely recommended.
1600 Rockland Rd, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
The wealthy DuPont family is responsible for constructing some of the most impressive mansions and gardens in the state. From Nemours Mansion and Gardens to Winterthur Museum, Library and Gardens, exploring these perfectly landscaped estates is definitely a must.
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Bok Tower Gardens, Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales, FL, USA
Located in Lake Wales, this singing bell tower is a stunning work of art. A contemplative garden and bird sanctuary, Bok Tower Gardens offers over 250 acres of lush grounds to explore.
Ellison's Cave, Georgia 30707, USA
This is the 12th deepest cave in the United States and extends over 1,063 vertically into the earth. The cave includes over 12 miles of underground tunnels and caverns, making it exciting but also quite dangerous to explore. Be sure to consult a licensed guide before visiting and always tell someone where you're going and when you plan to be back.
Polihale State Park, Lower Saki Mana Rd, Waimea, HI 96796, USA
This secluded, protected beach on the western side of Kauai offers sand dunes that soar up to 100 feet high, stunning ocean views, and absolutely pristine coastal wilderness to explore.The best parks in each state are all worth visiting, but we recommend you put this one at the very top of your list.
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho, USA
This incredible spot is one of the best preserved flood basalt areas in the country. Created by volcanic activity, these rocky plains are reminiscent of an alien world. It might take a few days to explore, so best to find a base in a nearby town.
Garden of the Gods, Herod, IL 62947, USA
This gorgeous stretch of forest and exposed cliffs is in southern Illinois. Created by glacial activity, this is one of the most scenic areas in the state.
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Sisters of Saint Benedict, 802 E 10th St, Ferdinand, IN 47532, USA
Located in Ferdinand, this stunning monastery looks like something from old-world Europe. Built in the 1800s in the Romanesque Revival Style, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption, 208 1st Ave NW, West Bend, IA 50597, USA
This West Bend treasure is sometimes called the eighth wonder of the world. It's the largest man-made grotto anywhere on Earth, and is built entirely of precious and semi-precious stones.
Pillsbury Crossing, KS 66502, USA
At a glance this waterfall may seem like any other across America. However, Pillsbury Crossing is much more unique. Unlike than other falls that have formed over time this one was created by humans out of natural limestone. The intent was to provide safe passage for pioneers and their wagons in the 1800s. Today, when the water is low, visitors can still drive across it and enjoy a dip in the swimming hole beneath.
Cumberland Falls, Kentucky 42634, USA
Located within Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, this waterfall is beautiful. The park is a great place to camp, hike, or even do some amateur gem mining. When you're done digging for riches, head over to Cumberland Falls for a spectacular waterfall experience.
Avery Island, LA, USA
The best place to stay on this picturesque island is undoubtedly the Rip Van Winkle Estate. It makes for a great base camp from which to explore the island's oak-lined paths, gardens and of course, the famed Tabasco Pepper Sauce Factory.
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Golden Road, Golden Rd, Millinocket, ME 04462, USA
Head over to Millinocket and jump on the The Golden Road Scenic Byway for the road trip of a lifetime. The 96-mile Golden Road passes through some of the most beautiful wilderness in Maine.
Ocean City, MD, USA
Maryland's most popular beach is packed with things to do. From amusement park rides to incredible, fresh seafood, this place is a destination the whole family will enjoy.
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, USA
Nantucket, MA, USA
The islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are the ultimate New England getaway spots. They're popular summer destinations for celebrities, presidents and famed artists, and both islands have old-fashioned charm and natural beauty that is totally unique. See them both to take in the unique vibes that come with each.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Maple City, MI 49664, USA
This 35-mile-long stretch of stunning sand wraps around the coast of Lake Michigan. It's a great place to go for a bit of coastal ecosystem exploration with a hike, or just a lazy day in the sun and surf.
River Valley Co, 98 St Croix Trail N, Lakeland, MN 55043, USA
The St. Croix River Valley is one of the most scenic areas of Minnesota. It was once an important region in the state's fur and logging trade. Take a leisurely boat ride down the St. Croix River to fully experience the area's beauty.
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Elvis Presley Birthplace, 306 Elvis Presley Dr, Tupelo, MS 38801, USA
Tupelo might not offer the sweeping beach views of some of the other spots on this list, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And, if you're an Elvis fan there might not be a more scenic place than the hip-shaking rock star's childhood home.
Onondaga Cave State Park, 7556 Missouri H, Leasburg, MO 65535, USA
Walk through a forest of stalagmites and stalactites in Onondaga Cave. The main cave tour will take you through a mile of glittering underground caverns. After checking out this incredible spot, plan to spend some time in the state park.
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Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
Glacier National Park should be on every American's bucket list. Hidden Lake (pictured) is one of the state's most photographed sites, and it's well worth an in-person visit. The park is so large that it warrants an entire week in the region. So, stick around awhile and soak up one of the most incredible places in the country.
Chimney Rock, West Bayard, NE 69334, USA
This Rutherford County attraction is one of Nebraska's most recognizable natural features. Chimney Rock even holds a place of honor on the state quarter. Visiting any time of day will provide fantastic views, but sunset is nothing short of incredible.
The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower, 2000 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89104, USA
Located in Las Vegas, the Stratosphere Tower is the nation's tallest freestanding observation tower. Visitors can gaze out over the strip from a height of 1,149 feet. And, of course, they can stick around and try their luck at any of the casinos that dot the famous strip. If hotels aren't your thing, there are plenty of incredible vacation rentals. Just make sure you get one with an epic view of the strip.
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Mount Washington, Mt Washington, Sargent's Purchase, NH 03846, USA
This spectacular peak can be scaled on foot, by car or even by the famed Cog Railway. The view is spectacular, especially during the winter months. Just be sure to bundle up! Mount Washington's summit has a history of being the coldest place on the planet.
Atlantic City, NJ, USA
Atlantic City has a bit of everything. Known for its gaming and casinos, the area also offers plenty of amazing dining, shopping, shows and amusement rides. It's pretty much the Vegas of New Jersey.
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, 26 Jim Bradford Trail, Mimbres, NM 88049, USA
These magnificent cliff dwellings were carved into the stone of the Mogollon Mountains between 5,700 to 7,300 feet above sea level by the Mogollon people. The structures were constructed between 1276 and 1287, and are truly spectacular.
Lake George, NY 12845, USA
At 32 miles long and only three miles wide, Lake George is surrounded by things to do and see. Between amusement parks, great dining, historic Fort William Henry and Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park, you won't run out of things to do. There are also fireworks over the lake throughout the summer.
Biltmore, 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803, USA
George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre estate is one of the nation's most stunning private residences. Its dramatic architecture and unabashed opulence draws visitors from all over the world.
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Scandinavian Heritage Park, 1020 S Broadway, Minot, ND 58701, USA
Scandinavian Heritage Park showcases incredible replicas of architecture, art, and objects from countries such as Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland.
Ohio Caverns - Open All Year, 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH 43357, USA
Located within the spectacular Ohio Caverns, Crystal King is one of the world's largest and most perfectly formed stalactites. It's almost five feet long and is estimated to weigh over 400 pounds.
Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center, 4350 OK-259A, Broken Bow, OK 74728, USA
Mountain Fork River in Beaver's Bend State Park is a beautiful place to hike, kayak, swim or simply take in the beauty of nature. Take in the river, but remember to enjoy one of the many hikes in the area.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, 32651 OR-19, Mitchell, OR 97750, USA
The dazzling colors of these fossil beds are beautiful enough to inspire awe in any visitor. Head over to Wheeler and Grant Counties to check out this geological treasure. Bring your hiking boots, there are a few gorgeous trails.
Bald Eagle State Forest, Walker Township, PA 16823, USA
If you want to see some incredible fall foliage, head to Top Mountain Trail in Bald Eagle State Forest during the autumn months. This stunning shot doesn't begin to do the area justice.
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Newport, RI, USA
These Gilded Age mansions in seaside Newport are some of the most gorgeous structures in the nation. The most spectacular estates include The Breakers, Rosecliff, The Elms, and Marble House.
Charleston, SC, USA
The oldest city in South Carolina, Charleston is renowned for its elegance and beauty. Much of the city's architecture dates back to colonial times, and the settlement played a pivotal role in the Civil War.
Spearfish Canyon, North Lawrence, SD 57783, USA
This narrow, deep gorge is located in western South Dakota. Filled with some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state and plenty of scenic hiking trails, Spearfish Canyon is definitely a must-see spot. And, the town of Spearfish is just as fun.
Broadway, Nashville, TN, USA
The Music City is known the world-over for its vibrant soul and spirit. The nightlife is unparalleled, especially if you're a fan of the underground music scene. The dining in Nashville is nothing to sneeze at, either.
Big Bend National Park, TX, USA
Located on the bend of the Rio Grande, this national park borders Mexico. Dinosaur remains have been found here, and the area is a popular spot for kayaking, hiking, rock climbing and exploration of all kinds.
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Arches National Park, Utah, USA
This surreal landscape boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches. Delicate Arch, one of the park's most famous features, is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset.
Quechee Gorge, Hartford, VT 05001, USA
This beautiful state park is one of the most photogenic spots in the state. With plenty of campgrounds for overnight guests, well-maintained trails and stunning waterfalls, Quechee Gorge is not to be missed.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, 8231 Beach Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
With over 14,000 acres of coastline, sandy beaches, towering dunes, and wildlife-rich forest, this refuge is as beautiful as it is ecologically diverse. It's located on Assateague Island, which is renowned for its herds of wild ponies.
Cape Flattery, Washington 98357, USA
This amazing spot on the Olympic Peninsula is not only beautiful, but incredibly accessible: most of the coastal area is boardwalked and easily traversed.
Green Bank Telescope, 155 Observatory Rd, Green Bank, WV 24944, USA
This colossal telescope is the world's largest moveable land object. Besides being the most powerful radio telescope around, it's aesthetically wonderful to behold.
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Apostle Islands, Wisconsin, USA
This beautiful island group is located in Lake Superior. Each of the 21 separate islands offer their own cultural flavor and natural assets, and with charming lighthouses scattered over the area, visitors will never lose their way.
Devils Tower, WY 82714, USA
Located in Crook County, this peculiar stone monolith has an ominous name, but is a stunning addition to the natural landscape of the Bear Lodge Mountains. It rises 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River and was the first declared United States National Monument.
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.
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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.