Last Updated on June 4, 2025
Editor’s note:
Statistics on the most popular travel destinations in the U.S. were provided by YouGov. An international research organization, YouGov‘s data is frequently cited by the global press and the company is the most quoted market research source in the world.
This article is meant to be used in conjunction with our popular article Most Visited Attractions In the USA, which ranks USA attractions by the number of people who visit annually. This survey, on the other hand, ranks attractions by the percentage of people who have a positive opinion of it. They are ranked in order of popularity.
I hope you enjoy them both.
By Jim Ferri
1) Statue of Liberty, New York
Visiting the Statue of Liberty in New York is one of those classic experiences that feels like a must-do. It’s a well-known symbol of freedom, of course, but there’s much more to the experience that makes it the top travel destination for so many people. It is the most popular attraction the USA.
Although the famous statue is on a small island in New York Harbor, there’s actually quite a bit to explore around the statue and its surroundings. The Statue of Liberty Museum, for example, has many interactive exhibits that tell the story of the statue’s creation, its symbolism, and how it has welcomed millions through the years. One of its most popular exhibits is the original torch of the statue. You’ll also learn about the engineering genius behind the statue. The ferry that you take to Liberty Island also brings you to nearby Ellis Island. There you’ll find the National Museum of Immigration housed inside the original Ellis Island Immigration Station. It offers a deeply moving narrative about the immigrant experience. The exhibits include personal artifacts, photographs, and oral histories.
Walk through the vast Great Hall where immigrants first stood, feeling the weight of new beginnings. There were more then 12 million immigrants processed here, some found hope, others heartbreak. Providing a personal dimension to the exhibits are audio clips and diaries from immigrants.
Be sure to use the Interactive Family History Kiosks to search for your own family’s immigration history with the extensive databases available.
2) Yosemite National Park, California
With its awe-inspiring landscapes, Yosemite National Park is well known for its grandeur of nature. The first that welcomes you as you enter Yosemite Valley is Bridalveil Fall. Tall and graceful, its steady cascade is mesmerizing, especially in spring when the water’s at its fullest.
But it’s El Capitan, this travel destination’s iconic granite monolith, that is the park’s towering superstar. It’s a magnet for climbers from all over the world, but even if you’re just viewing it from below, its sheer scale is jaw-dropping. It’s one of those sights that definitely makes you stop and stare.
Join your fellow travelers in El Capitan Meadow far below to spot expert climbers tackling the face (bring binoculars if you want a closer look}. Visit early to avoid the afternoon crowd that comes to view the magnificent monolith at sunset.
Also famous and formidable is Half Dome whose unique shape is recognized worldwide. Getting to its summit is a serious adventure. But admiring it from viewpoints like Glacier Point provides panoramic vistas with Half Dome front and center. It’s a popular way to appreciate this natural wonder without breaking a sweat.
However, Tunnel View, one of Yosemite’s most famous viewpoints, delivers that classic postcard-worthy scene of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome all in one stunning frame. It’s a must-stop for first timers and a favorite spot for sunset watchers.
3) Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Have you ever stood at the edge of something so vast and incredibly beautiful that it just knocks the breath right out of you? That’s the kind of feeling you have when you see the Grand Canyon for the first time. But beyond that epic view, there’s a surprising mix of activities that makes many Grand Canyon visits here extra memorable. There’s no other travel destination in the world quite like it.
A stunning viewpoint on the South Rim, Maricopa Point offers some of the canyon’s most dramatic vistas. It’s a bit quieter than the main spots, making it perfect to take a breather and soak in the landscape.
Famous for its expansive views, Hopi Point is also a prime spot to catch sunsets that paint the canyon walls in fiery colors. It’s one of the best places for photographers and anyone who appreciates a good sky show.
On the other hand, if you want the perfect shot without the hassle, there are guided tours that take you to the best sunset spots and help capture the canyon’s fiery finale. They are great for beginners and shutterbugs alike.
Travelers up for a watery adventure, on the other hand, find that rafting the Colorado River through the canyon is a must. It’s a peaceful yet thrilling way to take in canyon walls from below while cooling off on the river. It’s also suitable for most skill levels and families.
Those who want a bird’s-eye view (literally), find a helicopter tour offers an epic way to see the canyon. The aerial perspective is incredible and provides a sense of the canyon’s massive scale you just can’t get from the rim.
For some true adventurers, hiking rim to rim is the ultimate Grand Canyon challenge. It’s a tough trek but rewards you with unmatched views and an incredible sense of accomplishment. You’ll experience forest, desert, and river landscapes all in one hike, a true test of stamina and grit.
Some travelers find that a more historic way to explore, involves mule rides (the mules are trained) down into the canyon. It offers a slower-paced and memorable adventure. There’s no hiking required, just sit back and enjoy the ride with views that change with every turn. Be aware that the trips are popular so you should book as far in advance as possible.
If you’re going to the bottom of the canyon, you may enjoy Phantom Ranch. Deep down in the canyon, it’s the ultimate off-the-grid lodging experience. Accessible by mule ride, hike, or rafting trip, it feels like a secret clubhouse where you earn your restful nights. It’s set near the Colorado River for unique scenery with comfy cabins and canteen.
4) Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls offers a mix of nature’s grandeur and pure fun, with options to explore, learn, and be thrilled. Attracting more than 30 million visitors every year, Niagara Falls is one of the most popular natural attractions in North America.
Making it unique is that the Niagara Falls experience spans both the USA and Canadian sides of the border. And although the falls are on the U.S. side, the best place to view them is from the Canadian side. At this travel hotspot, you get two destinations for the price of one!
The Niagara Falls History Museum, in Niagara Falls, Ontario provides a good understanding of area history with original tools, photos, digital maps and timelines.
The Underground Railroad Heritage Center, also on the Canadian side, is a smaller spot but rich in emotion and insight. It tells the story of the Underground Railroad in the Niagara region.
Table Rock Welcome Centre on the edge of the falls, is your gateway to Niagara’s main attraction. Beyond info and souvenirs, it offers an incredible up-close view of the falls, plus access to underground tours.
Canada’s Skylon Tower, with its observation deck and revolving dining room, provides panoramic views. It’s a good vantage point for viewing the falls, especially when lit up after dark.
Niagara Power Vista, in Niagara University on the U.S. side, focuses on the history of hydroelectric power in the region. It offers interactive exhibits that are both informative and fun to let you how water turns into power.
You may want to talk or drive across the iconic Niagara Falls Rainbow Bridge that connects the USA and Canada. It delivers great views of the falls and the river below. And walking across it provides a different perspective and a chance to snap some memorable photos. Just don’t forget to bring your passport.
The beautiful, nearby Canadian town of Niagara-On-The-Lake is worth a full-day visit on its own. Its famous Floral Clock – 40 feet in diameter with 16,000 flowering plants – is a unique and colorful landmark. Visit in spring or summer for the fullest floral display.
Getting right up to the base of the falls on a boat ride is an exceptional and unforgettable experience. Hornblower Niagara Cruises, on the Canadian side, and Maid of the Mist on the U.S., both offer a thrilling splash and close-up views that you just can’t get from land.
5) Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is known for many things including its unique mix of geothermal features, abundant wildlife, and vast, rugged landscapes. It has something for every nature lover and adventure seeker. It’s a unique U.S. travel destination that is also one of the best U.S. National Parks for a family vacation.
Start at the Yellowstone Heritage and Research Center to understand how Yellowstone has evolved over time. It’s a behind-the-scenes peek into the world of park preservation and wildlife stewardship.
And don’t miss the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center near the famous geyser. This center is where science and spectacle come together. Enjoy its interactive exhibits and educational films while waiting for the main show—Old Faithful erupting, that is.
In addition to viewing an abundance of wildlife roaming freely around the 3,472 square-mile / 8992 Square kilometer park, also visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center near West Yellowstone. It isn’t your typical zoo but offers a special chance to see bears and wolves up close, especially those that can’t be released back into the wild. It’s a great spot for all members of the family in a safe, educational setting. Arrive early to see the feedings and talks—they’re super informative. You may also want to wear layers since the center sits at a higher elevation and can get chilly.
If you want to up your chance of spotting elk, bears, and maybe even wolves, Yellowstone’s small-group guided safaris are the way to go. The guides know where animals congregate and are experts with extensive knowledge of local wildlife. Book morning tours to catch animals at their most active.
Yellowstone is also open year-round and in winter the park transforms into a snowy wonderland. At that time heated snow-coach tours are a great way to see the sights without worrying about the deep snow.
6) Redwood National and State Parks, California
Step into Redwood National and State Parks in California and you’ll see some of the tallest, oldest trees on Earth. Wandering among them is a quiet and somewhat magical experience that makes you feel like you’re on a different planet. The park is about 300 miles north of San Francisco.
But there’s more to this travel destination than just towering trees, some reaching heights of 300 feet. From interesting museums to fun activities and scenic tours, there’s plenty to keep you entertained and inspired.
Visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center, the gateway to the Parks, which offers a neat intro to the ecosystem and the history of the area. There are interesting exhibits about the towering redwoods themselves, as well as the cultural history of the native tribes. There are also Junior Ranger booklets for children who want a fun way to explore.
The Redwood Discovery Museum brings the redwoods to life in a hands-on way. It features interesting displays on tree growth, forest conservation, and the unique plant and animal life in the park. It’s an interesting stop for anyone wanting to geek out a bit on the natural side of things. One interesting exhibit is the Tree Ring Exhibit that explains how scientists study rings to unlock centuries of climactic history.
The Prairie Creek Visitor Center offers great exhibits focused on the local wildlife, especially the famous Roosevelt elk herd. It’s a cozy spot to get insights on the best wildlife viewing spots and enjoy detailed displays on flora and fauna. Go early morning or late afternoon for the best elk sightings nearby. And don’t forget your binoculars.
Another way to explore these arboreal giants is the Redwood Sky Walk. It’s a canopy walkway that lets you stroll among the treetops and is great for all ages and fitness levels.
7) Glacier National Park, Montana
Ever found yourself dreaming about a place where mountains seem to touch the sky amid the wilderness about you? If so, Montana’s 3,472 square-mile (8992 square-kilometer) Glacier National Park may be your Nirvana. But with so many awe-inspiring views and outdoor activities, it can be a bit overwhelming to decide what to experience first.
Maybe you’re wondering how to soak in the best sights without trying to do it all in one go, or if there are some cool off-the-beaten-path spots worth checking out. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve visited before, figuring out where to start can be annoying.
If that’s the case, and you want to get a feel for Glacier National Park’s history, wildlife, and geology, the Apgar Visitor Center is a good first stop. It’s small but packed with helpful exhibits and friendly rangers who can answer your questions. Plus, you get the chance to learn about the native wildlife and some fascinating glacier facts while picking up maps and trail advice.
As in all parks, visit early if you want to chat with rangers before the crowd arrives. And certainly check for weather updates since they can affect your plans, especially for hiking or boating.
Also visit historic Gould Cabin, which offers a glimpse into the life of early park rangers. It’s an interesting place to see how people lived and worked before the advent of modern conveniences we take for granted.
If you hike the Highline Trail, you’ll see signs that tell stories about Glacier NP’s geology, flora, fauna, and history. It’s a living museum of sorts, providing context while you enjoy one of the most scenic hikes in the park. It makes the trail both educational and a feast for your eyes. A Guidebook will help enhance the interpretive signs with more details.
Other park activities at this travel destination include whitewater rafting, boat tours, and horseback riding tours.
8) Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC
According to YouGov, the iconic Lincoln Memorial is the most popular travel destination in Washington, DC. That’s quite a feat in a city filled with iconic memorials and countless other attractions. Nevertheless, an incredible number of tourists visit Lincoln every year, making the former President one of the most awe-inspiring sights in the U.S. capitol.
When visiting Washington, DC most travelers can’t help but be awed by the great figure of former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln sitting in his Neoclassical “temple” above the Reflecting Pool west of the Washington Monument. The monument has 36 Doric columns, one for each of the U.S. states that existed at the time of Lincoln’s death.
Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is engraved on one wall of the monument. Above it is a mural of the Angel of Truth freeing a slave. Dr. Martin Luther King gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech on the steps of this renowned memorial.
At the present time a 15,000-square-foot visitor center and museum are being constructed under the monument. Completion is expected in 2026.
9) Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains NP offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural treasures. It’s a top U.S. travel destination that’s spread across 522,427 acres (211,419 ha). Its lush forests, mist-covered ridges, and charming towns are nearly evenly divided between Tennessee and North Carolina.
But with so many activities and sights, spread over such a large area, planning a visit can feel overwhelming. Many visitors find themselves stuck, unsure of where to begin. The best solution is to just visit one of the four visitor centers (at Sugarlands, Oconaluftee, Cades Cove, and Clingmans Dome) and ask the park rangers for help.
Whether you are drawn by adventure, history, or simply the call of the wilderness, they’ll help you find the blend of experiences that resonate with your personal interests. You might also ask where are the best places to see elk and other wildlife…and why the Park and the mountains are called (and spelled) “Smoky.”
I’ve driven all over the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and I can vouch for it being a wonderful experience that shouldn’t be missed. It’s a great for travel destination for families also. Perhaps combine it with a ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway…
10) Sequoia National Park, California
Much like Redwoods State and National Parks, Sequoia National Park is one of those magical places that just feels like you’ve stepped into another world. This travel destination is home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, with those massive sequoias towering like ancient guardians of the forest.Its most famous tree is the General Sherman, the largest tree on Earth by volume. Over 36 feet in diameter and around 275 feet tall, standing at its base is humbling. Thankfully, the short, paved trail to it makes General Sherman accessible for nearly everyone.
Whether you enjoy hiking, scenic drives, or just being enveloped by nature, Sequoia has something to keep your days packed with wonder. Plus, there’s plenty of spots where you can sit back and just breathe in all that fresh forest air.
The Foothills Visitor Center is a great starting point for getting the lay of the land and picking up info about Sequoia’s natural history. It’s small but packs a punch with interactive displays about the park’s wildlife, geology, and of course, those giant trees. Perfect for curbing your curiosity before heading out.
Sequoia’s Museum Trail Exhibit Hall, nestled near the Giant Forest Museum, digs a bit deeper into the sequoia story with beautifully crafted displays and lots of visuals.
As in most of parks, visit early in the day to avoid crowds and get personalized advice from park rangers. And don’t miss the short nature walk just outside the center for a quick tree fix.
Among other things, you’ll likely leave this wonderful park understanding why sequoias live for thousands of years and how natural fires help them thrive.
11) Empire State Building, New York
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to be on top of the world, right in the heart of New York City? A lot of people must, considering that around 4 million tourists, half of which are international travelers, visit the Empire State Building annually. They visit because the Empire State Building, isn’t just a tall structure; it’s a place packed with experiences.
Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, you might be curious about what experiences you can have while you’re there…meaning things beyond just snapping that classic “I-was-there” photo, of course.
The experience starts in the lobby area with the Dare to Dream Exhibit, which tells the story behind this New York City icon. As you might expect from this travel destination, it’s a combination of photos, models, and fascinating insights into the building’s construction during the Great Depression.
But more than anything, it’s a mini-history lesson showing how dreams and determination shaped the skyline and the city’s spirit. It includes the original blueprints that guided one of the fastest construction projects in history. And as you might expect, there are also historic photos of workers and the building’s rise.
There’s also a free Art Deco Lobby Tour in the building’s 5th Avenue entrance. The lobby is a gem of design, packed with intricate art-deco details that tell their own story. This tour introduces you to the beautiful architecture, including sculpted metalwork, murals, and lighting that harken back to the roaring 1930s.
The Stunning artwork of the murals depicts the building’s construction and New York’s energy. Original lighting fixtures cast a warm glow on the marble and brass. All about there are sculptural details: ornate metal and stonework that you’d otherwise miss.
Be sure to look up, since the ceiling holds some of the most impressive designs worth admiring. Be aware that weekday tours tend to be less busy and more intimate.
Don’t miss the Interactive Multimedia Experience on the 2nd floor of the building, within the newly renovated observatory experience. Access to the experience is part of your ticket purchase, which also includes the 86th-floor observation deck. (This does not come cheap, however. Empire State Building Main Deck (86th Floor) tickets start at $44 for adults, $38 for children and $42 for seniors. A booking charge of $5 is also added to each transaction).
12) Smithsonian, Washington DC
The final popular U.S. travel destination is the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. It oversees, numerous museums and galleries in the nation’s capital. Visiting any of them envelopes one in a deep pool of culture and history. When you leave, however, you take unforgettable experiences with you.
The Smithsonian’s museums and galleries include: the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the Freer Gallery of Art, the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, National Museum of the American Indian, the National Postal Museum, National Portrait Gallery and the Renwick Gallery.
All of these museums, and others elsewhere in the USA, receive approximately 17 million visitors each year. While it’s impossible to preview each of these institutions here, you ca see an overview of them at: https://washington.org/smithsonian-institution-museums-overview
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