Must-See Destinations: The Top Attraction in Every US State

The United States has no shortage of things to do. No matter where you’re from or where you’re traveling to, there are many fantastic places to visit year-round. This list of the most popular tourist attractions in each state is a handy guide for any traveler looking to make the most of a vacation, road trip, or Sunday afternoon.

Each of these attractions represents the best each state has to offer. Some states specialize in national parks, some in museums, and others in theme parks. However, all these attractions have one thing in common: they’re incredibly enjoyable to experience.

Alabama: U.S. Space and Rocket Center

Want to save this post?

Enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox.

Save Recipe

Email

SAVE THIS!

Huntsville, Alabama, is home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, a must-see attraction for anybody interested in space travel and America’s illustrious space history. It really is one of the coolest attractions in the country, boasting everything from a planetarium to a world-class flight simulator.

Not everyone is cut out to be an astronaut. Still, by visiting the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, astronauts at heart can live out their fantasies to the fullest. Over 650,000 people flock to the center annually, making it Alabama’s most-visited tourist attraction by far.

Alaska: Denali National Park

As arguably the most challenging state to visit, the fact that over 600,000 people visit Alaska’s Delani National Park annually is impressive. The park is set on six million acres and showcases everything that makes the Alaskan wilderness wonderful. There’s so much to do while in the park, from fishing to camping and everything in between. Wild animals roam freely, so keep your head on a swivel for your own safety.

The highest mountains in the United States are located within Denali National Park, making it a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the country from an enviable and jaw-dropping height.

Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park

Five million people enjoy the natural splendor of Grand Canyon National Park each year. It’s called one of the “Seven Wonders of the World” for a reason, and nature lovers flock to this mecca as often as possible. In fact, Grand Canyon National Park is a bucket list item for millions of Americans.

Admission tickets are $20 per person and $35 per vehicle. Everyone from hikers to bird watchers can experience the Grand Canyon and walk away from their day fulfilled and happy. Don’t visit Arizona without taking in all of the park’s wonders. You won’t regret it.

Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs Natural Park is a destination for many campers, hikers, bikers, and lovers of the great outdoors. In fact, approximately 42 million visitors enter through the park’s gates each year who want to experience the park’s 47 natural hot springs in person.

To make it even more enticing, admission to the park is free, making it one of the best value propositions for families looking to save money while still experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime memory. Budget-minded tourists should look no further than Hot Springs National Park to ensure their dollars go a long way.

California: Golden Gate Bridge

If you’ve ever visited the Bay Area, seeing the Golden Gate Bridge for the first time (or, even better, walking on it), you already know that it’s one of the most incredible experiences a tourist can have. Built in 1933 and attracting over 10 million visitors annually, the Golden Gate Bridge is a timeless symbol of American prosperity and engineering.

However, tourists may want to simply enjoy the bridge from afar. Unfortunately, driving across it costs $35 per vehicle, making it out of the budget for many visitors. On the plus side, the Golden Gate Bridge is visible from many San Francisco-area locations.

Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park

When you picture Colorado, you most likely conjure images of the Rocky Mountains and the great outdoors. Fortunately, the National Park Service created Rocky Mountain National Park as a love letter to all the wilderness the state is known for.

4.5 million people visit the park each year, paying anywhere from $15 per person to $30 per vehicle. The park is known for some of the best views in the country. Take a photo while hiking any of the trails, and you’ll have a beautiful picture you’ll cherish forever. Yes, the park really is that breathtaking.

Connecticut: Mystic Seaport Museum

Connecticut’s Mystic Seaport Museum is one of the best-kept secrets in the tourism industry. Mystic is a gorgeous seaside town filled with harbors, water, and fantastic food (and was even made famous thanks to a 1988 Julia Roberts film).

Mystic Seaport Museum averages a quarter of a million visitors annually. Its attractions include over 500 historic, preserved watercraft and a fascinating, recreated New England coastal village. Compared to many other attractions on this list, the museum experience is relatively relaxed and low-key, making it an enticing option for travelers who embrace slow living.

Delaware: Rehoboth Boardwalk

Boardwalks are a dime a dozen on the eastern U.S. seaboard, but the famed Rehoboth Boardwalk stands alone as the country’s best. More than 3.5 million people flock to the famous boards, usually after spending the day relaxing in the sun on one of Delaware’s tranquil beaches.

The boardwalk has it all: tax-free shopping (Delaware is one of the few states that doesn’t pass on sales tax on purchases made in-state), world-class restaurants and bars, and tons of family-friendly activities. While Delaware isn’t usually the place Americans think of when the topic of fantastic beach attractions comes up, it may be time they should.

Florida: Walt Disney World

It’s almost a rite of passage for any traveler visiting Orlando to visit the most-visited theme park in the world. Walt Disney World boasts over 17 million visitors each year, all with one goal: to experience the magic of Disney, usually with friends and family by their side.

Although Disney World tickets vary, they tend to be expensive, making visiting the park one of the most pricey options on this list. However, if you’re a diehard Disney fanatic, it’s a place where all dreams come true regardless of age.

Georgia: Georgia Aquarium

Atlanta is home to many world-class attractions like the World of Coca-Cola and Olympic Park, but the Georgia Aquarium is the best way to spend your tourism dollars when visiting the city. The aquarium attracts 2.5 million guests annually and is dedicated to conversation and protecting marine life from extinction.

Exhibits such as Dolphin Coast (an adorably interactive experience) and Truist Pier 225 (home to many sea lions) give visitors their money’s worth. With an average admission ticket costing over $40, there is a lot of value for families visiting the aquarium. You can spend an entire day there, and your children will love every second.

Hawaii: Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful places on Earth and some of the most friendly residents you’ll ever meet. When you’re not relaxing on island time, visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial in Honolulu is highly recommended. A site commemorating one of the darkest days in the country’s history, the memorial will take your breath away with its fascinating (yet sad) exhibits.

Over two million people visit the memorial each year and pay their respects to the men and women who lost their lives while defending their country on that fateful day in December 1941.

Idaho: Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Visiting the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is the closest thing an average person can get to walking on the surface of the moon. This park’s unique landscape resulted from volcanic activity from millions of years ago, and it’s an experience that must be seen in person to fully appreciate.

The preserve attracts over 200,000 visitors per year. With an admission fee of only $10, visiting Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is a cost-effective way to experience something you can’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Illinois: Millennium Park

Each time I visit Chicago, Illinois, I inevitably make my way toward one of my favorite places in the country: Millennium Park. The breathtaking urban park in downtown Chicago is highlighted by one of the most incredible art installations tourists could ever come across: the Cloud Gate sculpture, commonly called “The Bean.”

With the city’s skyline in the background, taking photos of “The Bean” is a once-in-a-lifetime (and free) experience that everybody who visits the Windy City should have.

Indiana: Indianapolis Motor Speedway

It’s rare for a state’s most-visited tourist attraction to be sports-related. Still, the sprawling city of Indianapolis is synonymous with one specific sporting mega-event: the Indy 500. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts the most famous IndyCar race in the world and draws approximately 800,000 fans each year.

However, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is more than just a race track. The Speedway Hall of Fame is an excellent way to spend a few hours, while race fans with extra money can even arrange to drive a car on the track itself. How much fun is that?

Iowa: Field of Dreams

Ask the average sports fan about their favorite movie; there’s a good chance they will respond with Field of Dreams. The classic baseball film spawned Iowa’s most popular tourist attraction, aptly called Field of Dreams.

Located in Dyersville, 100,000 movie buffs and baseball fans annually make a pilgrimage to the location where the movie was filmed in 1988. Fans can see the actual baseball field from the movie (it’s located on the Lansing Family Farm) and even stay in overnight accommodations. Based on the attraction’s overwhelming success, it sounds like the old adage is true: if you build it, tourists will come.

Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo

Although zoos can be found across the United States, nobody does it better than the Sedgwick County Zoo, one of the best parts of visiting Kansas. The zoo attracts 600,000 visitors annually thanks to its hands-on approach to experiencing everything the park offers.

Animal lovers of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits like giraffe feedings, boat rides, safari tram experiences, and more. While many zoos can be a bit of a downer to experience, the Sedgwick County Zoo ensures that visitors and animals are at their happiest at all times, making for an unforgettable experience for all.

Kentucky: Cumberland Falls State Park

Kentucky is home to some of the most underrated outdoor attractions in the country, and Cumberland Falls State Park is well worth a visit if you find yourself around the town of Corbin. Over a million people visit the park each year, earning the nickname “Niagara of the South” thanks to its epic namesake waterfall.

The best part? Admission to the state park is free (although there is a modest charge to camp overnight), making Cumberland Falls State Park one of this list’s most family-friendly and affordable options.

Louisiana: French Quarter

A trip to New Orleans is incomplete without taking in all the sights and sounds of the French Quarter. It’s easy to dive head-first into everything the French Quarter offers, whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras on Bourbon Street or sampling some of the best Cajun cuisine Louisiana offers.

The number of visitors who flock to the French Quarter neighborhood is astounding: 19 million. The area has a rare energy and vibe. Blame it on the live music, the drinking, or the general sense of festivity if you must. The bottom line is that the French Quarter must be seen when visiting Louisiana.

Maine: Acadia National Park

Tucked deep into the most northeastern state in the country is the beautiful Acadia National Park. Maine is known for its lush and gorgeous landscapes, and Acadia highlights them with the respect they deserve. The park attracts over four million visitors each year who are more than happy to pay the $20 per person (or $35 per vehicle) entrance fee.

There’s plenty to do at Acadia National Park, from hiking countless trails to taking in some breathtaking views from atop Cadillac Mountain. Seeing the Atlantic Ocean doesn’t get much better than that.

Maryland: National Aquarium

Nothing in the United States is quite like Maryland’s crown jewel, the National Aquarium. Located in Baltimore’s famed Inner Harbor region, the aquarium attracts 1.5 million sea lovers annually. That’s a lot of men, women, and children who will spend hours gazing at the many underwater exhibits the aquarium offers (and enjoy a crabcake dinner afterward).

Although admission is pricey (adult tickets are nearly $50), the National Aquarium is worth every penny. Exhibits like Dolphin Discovery and Jellies Invasion allow nature lovers to get up close and personal with many of the sea’s fascinating creatures.

Massachusetts: Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Thanks to spots like Seattle’s Pike Place Market, urban marketplaces are all the rage these days. Originally one of Boston’s public meeting places early in the town’s history, Faneuil Hall Marketplace attracts 15 million people each year as they enjoy items and products that are authentically Bostonian. Locals swear by the New England clam chowder that is sold there.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace has been operating since 1742. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a real Beantown experience (after visiting Fenway Park, of course).

Michigan: The Henry Ford Museum

No matter what vehicle you drive, a person must credit Henry Ford for bringing the modern automobile into our lives. The next time you visit Detroit, Michigan, the Henry Ford Museum should be at the top of your list of places to visit.

1.7 million people visit the museum annually, taking in exhibits like the  Ford Rouge Factory Tour, the Giant Screen Theater, and the Benson Ford Research Center. For car lovers, there’s no better way to pay respect to the man who shaped an entire American industry than by visiting the Henry Ford Museum.

Minnesota: Mall of America

Yes, Minnesota’s most-visited attraction is technically a shopping mall, but what a shopping mall it is! While there are plenty of traditional retail stores to entice shoppers looking for a “normal” mall experience, the Mall of America is anything but.

Restaurants, movie theaters, an amusement park, and an aquarium join forces with hundreds of shops to create a unique experience that tourists go crazy for. Is it American consumerism at its best or worst? It doesn’t matter: 40 million people flock to this tourist attraction yearly.

Mississippi: Vicksburg National Military Park

With admission at only $10 (which includes entry for a whole week), visiting the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi is one of the most cost-efficient tourist attractions in the country. Talk about value for your money! 400,000 visit the park each year and learn about one of the most critical moments of the American Civil War: the Battle of Vicksburg.

Learning about the site’s history through a self-guided or guided tour is an easy way to bolster your knowledge of one of the most turbulent times in American history.

Missouri: Gateway Arch

At the start of the 1800s, America was committed to Western expansion. Each day, thousands of families traveled to a new part of the country, seeking a better life. As a symbol of the Nation’s desire to grow, the landmark was constructed in 1965 the city of St. Louis.

The Gateway to the West stands over 600 feet tall, making it the highest monument today. For a small fee, tourists can enjoy breathtaking views of St. Louis from its peak. With over a million visitors yearly, it remains one of the true American landmarks.

Montana: Glacier National Park

Travelers have been flocking to Glacier National Park on the border of Western Montana and southern Alberta for years. The rugged hikes, serene lakes, and picturesque sunsets are a dream for nature lovers. The amazing views will make you feel like you are looking at a postcard.

Since the early 2000s, the park has gained more visitors each year. Highlights include the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. The nearly 50-mile road climbs over 3,000 feet, offering gorgeous views of the canyons and the possibility of wildlife sightings such as bears, mountain goats, and elk.

Nebraska: Chimney Rock

The state of Nebraska might not come to mind when you think of the historic Oregon Trail, but it played a major role in Western migration. The uniquely shaped rock served as a sign that travelers were heading in the right direction and to continue on their journey.

The rock’s shape has been formed by millions of years of erosion. It is 325 feet high, with another 100 feet to the spire. Today, it is home to a museum. It draws 400,000 tourists to Bayard, Nebraska, each year, looking to learn about a particular niche in our country’s history.

Nevada: Las Vegas Strip

Without the city of Las Vegas, Nevada arguably has minimal appeal. It is hot, dry, and mostly flat. Luckily, some geniuses decided to build some casinos, set up a thriving nightlife, and provide some much-needed air conditioning to the Mojave Desert.

Nowadays, Vegas is one of the most popular destinations in the world. No longer a city only for degenerate gamblers, Vegas caters to tourists of all ages, and the Strip is the heart of it all. You will be hard-pressed to not be in awe of this city’s glitz, glamour, and excess.

New Hampshire: Kancamagus Highway

Also known as the “Knac,” this stretch of highway becomes a parking lot in the Fall for explorers looking for the trees’ changing colors. The drive will take you through the White Mountain National Forest, a perfect spot to welcome in the Autumn months.

Many people choose to camp at one of the park’s six campsites. From your campsite, you can trek along the Sabbaday Falls and the Swift River for an outdoor adventure you will never forget.

New Jersey: Atlantic City Boardwalk

Fun Fact: The Atlantic City Boardwalk was the first boardwalk built in the United States. In 1870, hotel owners constructed the boardwalk to help keep sand out of their lobbies.

Today, that same boardwalk is lined with hotels, casinos, high-rises, and resorts. Drawing over 27 million tourists each year, it is one of the most popular vacation spots. Whether you want to lay in the sun, frolic in the waves, or take in a show. Atlantic City is a prime spot to enjoy yourself. And be sure to try some of their iconic saltwater taffy. You can thank me later.

New Mexico: White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is famous for its sprawling white sand dunes made up of glistening gypsum. This mineral is mainly found in the nearby mountains, but it is settled in the park due to erosion. The result is a landscape you have to see to believe.

The park records about 700,000 cars passing through the gates each year. Visitors can rent sleds, play in the dunes, hike nearby trails, or take a backcountry horseback ride. Entrance only costs $15 per person or $25 per vehicle.

New York: Times Square

People think of a few things when they think about New York City. The Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center Memorial, and Central Park are famous. Still, nothing beats the busy walkways of Times Square.

It is estimated that nearly 300,000 pedestrians walk through the streets of Times Square every day. Appearing in numerous movies and television shows, it is one of the most easily recognized locations in the world. Don’t be afraid to stare at the bright lights like a tourist; thousands of others are doing the same. Just ensure you find an authentic slice of New York pizza before heading home.

North Carolina: Biltmore Estate

The millionaire business tycoon family of the Vanderbilts built the Biltmore Estate in the late 1800s. The French chateau has 250 rooms and a surrounding 8,000 acres, making it the largest privately owned home in the country. By 1963, the estate is declared a National Landmark.

In the present day, the estate opens its doors to 1.7 million visitors annually. The property has numerous restaurants, wine bars, walking trails, gift shops, and hourly tours of the lavish house. Single-entry tickets start at $80 and go up depending on the exhibits they are showing. Annual passes are also available for locals of the city of Asheville.

North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Even though over 600,000 cars pass through the park each year, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the least visited parks in the country. The park has a scenic drive that will take you through epic landscapes and allow you to get up close and personal with the mighty buffalo.

You can explore everything the park offers for a nominal $15 entrance fee. Popular activities include hiking and cycling in the warmer months and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Ohio: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

It’s hard to believe that Cleveland beat out New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Memphis for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but it did. Built in 1995, it holds some of the most prized artifacts in music history.

500,000 music lovers travel to Cleveland yearly to glimpse a Jimi Hendrix guitar or a sheet of paper on which John Lennon scribbled a verse. For a $35 entrance fee, you can stroll the halls and witness some of the most gifted musicians of the past 100 years.

Oklahoma: National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum opened its doors in 1955 and has been celebrating Western and Native American culture ever since. The Oklahoma City museum houses paintings, ceramics, movies, and a hall of fame of actors and rodeo stars of the early 1900s.

A $15 ticket gets you into the lobby of this great American Museum. There is no better way to experience the Western culture of Oklahoma. The 10 million visitors the Museum attracts each year would definitely agree with that statement.

Oregon: Multnomah Falls

The most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest is the gorgeous Columbia River Gorge, located on the border of Oregon and Washington, a short drive west of Portland. Two million adventurers trek out to the Benson Bridge for a perfect photo opportunity of the 620-foot waterfall.

The park offers other great sites besides the waterfall. Visitors are encouraged to bring their pets and experience a day of hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking.

Pennsylvania: Independence National Historical Park

The city of Philadelphia played a special part in our Nation’s history. In fact, it served as the young Nation’s capitol from 1790 to 1800 while Washington, D.C., was being built. Philadelphia has a myriad of landmarks for history buffs.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall, the site where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were established. Each year, 5 million visitors take a walk to discover the early parts of our country and take a picture of the famous cracked Liberty Bell.

Rhode Island: Newport Mansions

Rhode Island might be the smallest state in the country, but it is home to some of the largest mansions on the East Coast. One of them is The Breakers, built by the Vanderbilts and architect Richard Morris Hunt. It is a remembrance of one of the finest Gilded Age mansions.

Nowadays, millions of tourists visit the town of Newport to see these lavish homes. The Breakers is still the most popular home. With over 70 rooms to tour, it is no wonder it is such a huge draw.

South Carolina: Charleston Historic District

Located in the center of Charleston, the Historic district is a blend of modern-day and a slice of early American history. On every corner, you are greeted with early American architecture and cobblestone streets. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage to explore Civil War sites and tidbits about the past.

Each year, 7 million tourists come to experience this blast from the past part of the country. There are plenty of guided tours, museums, and even some haunted houses to send chills down your spine.

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The Black Hills of South Dakota are breathtaking on their own. But add a detailed sculpture of four of our most beloved presidents carved into the granite mountain face, and you have an iconic national landmark.

Completed in 1941, the mountain has 60-foot busts of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt. You really have to see the massive piece of art to appreciate it. That is why 2 million people take the trip out to South Dakota to see the granite faces for themselves.

Tennessee: Graceland

You cannot tell the story of rock & roll without talking about the King: Elvis Pressly. Arguably the biggest star to ever take the stage, Elvis has spanned generations of fans. He was such a popular artist that 500,000 fans each year pay homage to the rocker by touring his home in Memphis, Graceland.

The famous home was opened in 1982, five years after his death. Prices range from $50 for a basic visit to $215 for a VIP experience. If you are a fan of The King, add the tour of Graceland to your bucket list of tourist destinations.

Texas: The Alamo

Located in modern-day San Antonio, the Alamo was the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. The famous story follows the 13 days when Texans defended the Alamo against the over-matched Mexican forces.

There are many sites for tourists to choose from in the gigantic state of Texas. Still, 1.6 million tourists walk through the Museum of the Alamo doors each year. The site is located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, so you can experience a history lesson and grab lunch in one quick stop.

Utah: Zion National Park

Zion National Park rests in the Southwestern section of Utah. It is famous for its draw-dropping beauty of sharp cliffs and deep caverns. The park is a mecca for adventure seekers. Visitors can hike up Angel’s Landing, a death-defying climb, or trek through the Narrows, a hike that involves water that can reach your belly.

Each year, 5 million outdoor enthusiasts visit the park. Even if you are not a daredevil, there are plenty of shorter, easier hikes for you to explore. The entrance fee is only $35 per vehicle, with many campsites and hotels available in the area.

Vermont: Ben & Jerry’s Factory

I scream! You scream! We all scream for ice cream! Well, if you are visiting the Vermont town of Waterbury, this could be a reality because it is home to the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory.  

350,000 ice cream fans visit the factory each year to learn how this sweet treat is made. The factory offers special tours, with a look out over the main workspace where our desserts are made. Of course, the tour includes free samples, ideas for future flavors, and a “Flavor Graveyard” for discontinued products.

Virginia: Colonial Williamsburg 

When you step into Colonial Williamsburg, you might feel like you stepped back in time. The town is known for its shops and homes, which have stood the test of time and offer a brief look into the lives of early pioneers.

Intrigued visitors gather in Williamsburg to partake in activities such as churning butter, sewing, and quilt making. 500,000 people come to the site each year to try these chores and visit the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, and the George Wythe House.

Washington: Pike Place Market

Seattle, the biggest city in the state of Washington, is home to Pike Place Market, the oldest public market in the United States, which opened in 1907. The market is packed with local restaurants, shops, bars, and boutiques. Careful not to lose focus though. You don’t want to get hit with vendors throwing fish across the hallways.

The market is a great way to spend an afternoon. 10 million visitors flock to the market each year to experience its hustle and bustle. Grab a coffee at the original Starbucks and get ready to experience all the Pacific Northwest is known for.

West Virginia: Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park

Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park can be found where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet in West Virginia. It is famous for the largest surrender of Federal troops during the Civil War.

Visitors can learn about the history of the land and the Civil War for a $10 entrance fee per person or $20 per car. Bringing in 300,000 tourists each year, there is no doubt that the park has a thriving tourist scene.

Wisconsin: Wisconsin Dells

Raise your hand if you knew that Wisconsin was the self-proclaimed water park capital of the world. I would imagine most of the country would not have known that. Still, Wisconsin Dells welcomes over 4 million visitors each year to come splash in its pools and fly down their slides.

This makes Wisconsin Dells the ideal spot for a family-friendly vacation. The site has both indoor and outdoor facilities, so it is safe from the harsh weather of the Midwest. As I’m sweating out the hot summer, I can only imagine how nice it would be to spend a long weekend at Wisconsin Dells.

Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park

Even though Yellowstone spawns across multiple states, the majority of the park calls Wyoming home. Known for its geothermal activity, it was cemented as a landmark in 1872.

Over 3 million tourists visit the park each year. These visitors come to view Old Faithful, the variety of wildlife, and the numerous hiking trails. As with any other National Park, be respectful and kind to the fragile to the delicate ecosystem and its animals. We want this natural beauty to continue for many, many years.