15 Most Beautiful Places to Travel in the US
The USA is a treasure chest of natural wonders, and we’re about to crack it wide open. We’ve scoured the country to bring you the top places that’ll make your jaw drop and your Instagram followers green with envy.
From hidden gems to world-famous landmarks, these spots showcase the very best of America’s stunning scenery. You’ll be planning your next road trip before you even finish reading!
View this post on Instagram
1. Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, a wonderland of wild beauty, stretches across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Rivers weave through vast meadows and geysers shooting hot water high into the sky. Giant waterfalls rumble in the distance, and each turn on the hiking trail offers a view better than the last.
You might see wolves running free, bears roaming, and elk grazing under the big blue sky. Don’t forget to watch Old Faithful, the famous geyser that erupts like clockwork, which is a sight to see!
While you’re taking in the magic of Yellowstone, stay at the Old Faithful Inn, a giant cabin in the woods. It’s right by the geyser, so you can see it go off right from your bedroom window!
2. Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a giant among nature’s creations. The vastness stretches across the horizon, colorful layers telling stories from long before ours. Here, you’ll see shades of red and orange you never knew existed as sunlight dances across rock formations.
Walking along the rim, each view is a fresh surprise—a mix of deep valleys, high peaks, and rugged terrain that could fill a thousand photographs. The North Kaibab Trail offers a path through diverse ecosystems.
And don’t miss the chance to witness the sunrise from Yavapai Point; the way the light spills into the canyon is like opening a box of treasures.
After a day of adventures, rest at the El Tovar Hotel, right on the South Rim. This historic place gives you front-row seats to the canyon’s grandeur and a cozy spot to rest.
View this post on Instagram
3. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a giant outdoor art gallery sculpted by Mother Nature. Cliffs of gray granite soar into the sky, waterfalls tumble down like white ribbons, and giant sequoias reach for the stars.
Yosemite is known for the famous Half Dome and El Capitan, these landmarks are like the kings of the park, watching over miles of green meadows and wildflowers. There’s something magical about watching the sunrise over the mountain peaks, painting the sky with colors.
After a day of adventures, you can rest at the majestic Ahwahnee Hotel, with its grand stone and wood architecture. It’s a place where you can relax, sip hot cocoa, and share stories of the day’s adventures.
4. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is like a giant playground made by nature. The red and tan cliffs stand tall, making you feel like you’re in a huge, open-air castle. Think about walking through the Emerald Pool Trail, where waterfalls create small pools that sparkle like jewels in the sun.
Your adventure wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Canyon Overlook Trail, where the view stretches so far, you’d think you could see the whole world from up there. Ready for a fun challenge? The Hidden Canyon Trail offers just that, with paths that take you to secret spots the park hides.
After a day full of climbing and gazing at the views, Zion National Park Lodge is the perfect place to stay. Surrounded by the park’s beauty, and right where you need to be to start tomorrow’s adventure.
5. Great Smoky Mountains
Have you always dreamed of seeing mountains that touch the sky and forests that stretch as far as your eyes can see? The Great Smoky Mountains are a playground for your imagination.
Trees paint the hills in shades of green and gold, and wildflowers pepper the meadows. You can find yourself on the top of Clingmans Dome, breathing in the fresh air from the highest point in Tennessee.
A must-visit spot is the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, where the views will make you feel like you’re floating above a green sea.
Stay at the historic wonder of The Lodge at Buckberry Creek. It has old-time charm and a view that’ll make you want to wake up early just to see the sunrise.
View this post on Instagram
6. Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is a wonderland with towering peaks and clear, icy streams that might make you feel like you’ve stepped into a magic land.
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to the famous Trail Ridge Road. Zip along America’s highest paved road, with the whole world seeming to stretch out below. Every twist and turn brings a new gasp as you spot elk, bighorn sheep, and maybe even a coyote or two!
Don’t forget to lace up your boots for the trails leading to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lakes. They’re like mirrors for the clouds and trees, and each one has its own special color and charm. At the end of the hike, will you toss in a pebble and make a wish at Emerald Lake?
After a big day out, The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park is where you should rest your head. This old hotel looks grand against the backdrop of the mountains, with big wide porches and a history that’ll give you stories to tell for years!
7. Glacier National Park
With stunning scenery that includes rugged mountains, wildflower meadows, and serene turquoise lakes, Glacier National Park is like stepping into a real-life painting.
Lake McDonald is so clear, you can see the colorful rocks right under your feet. It’s a long stretch of water framed by mountains that’ll take your breath away. And for a day of adventure, the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road offers views so amazing you’ll want to keep driving forever!
After all that fresh air, you’ll need a cozy place to rest. Many Glacier Hotel with its big wooden beams and comfy chairs by the fireplace is just the right spot. Right by the water, this hotel gives you wild views with a slice of history.
8. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is your chance to witness the earth shape itself right before your eyes. Here, two legendary volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, remind you how alive our planet truly is.
With trails that wind through rainforests and deserts, and a scenic drive that offers views of craggy cliffs and endless ocean, this park is a canvas of nature’s most thrilling art. Nightfall offers a curtain of stars above, while glowing lava might treat you to nature’s own nightlight.
Your trip to this majestic park wouldn’t be complete without a stay at the historic Volcano House. Perched on the rim of Kīlauea’s Halemaʻumaʻu crater, waking up to the sunrise here is like greeting a new world every morning.
View this post on Instagram
9. Bryce Canyon
Bryce Canyon is where you can wander among natural towers known as hoodoos. These tall, thin spires of rock glow with shades of orange and pink as the sun peeks over the horizon, making Bryce unlike any other place on Earth.
Don’t just view the hoodoos from above; you can walk right down into the amphitheaters and gaze up at the towering formations!
And when night falls, gaze up at the sky; you’ll find more stars here than you ever knew existed. Bryce Canyon is not just stunning during the day, but also a starry wonder at night.
When you’re all done with your adventure in the hoodoos, The Lodge at Bryce Canyon is just the spot to rest. It’s right in the park, so you’re always just a few steps away from the beauty. Stay in a cabin for a real treat, feeling like you’re part of the wilderness around you.
10. Everglades National Park
At Everglades National Park, water and sky blend into a stunning mirror. Cruise on a boat through rivers of grass; all around you, wildlife thrives. Birds soar overhead and alligators lounge by the water’s edge. This vast wetland is like a giant puzzle of ecosystems, each piece a different adventure.
Your biggest fans here will be the pink feathers of flamingos and the gentle manatees that call these waters home. How about a game of spotting the toothy grins of alligators on the Anhinga Trail? Or maybe you’d prefer a front-row seat to the dolphin show in the Ten Thousand Islands?
After a day of wild fun, kick back at the Everglades City Motel. It’s the perfect spot to rest after your big day out. With its friendly vibe and close hug to nature, it’s a place that’s just right for both adventure-seekers and peace-lovers.
11. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a giant outdoor museum where the exhibits are amazing rock formations and twisted, spiky trees. Climb up boulders that feel like nature’s playground or finding a spot to watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors.
The park is home to two different deserts, the Mojave and the Colorado, and they come together to create a landscape that’s out of this world. Wander through the cactus gardens or find the hidden water in the Barker Dam area, where animals from the park come for a drink.
One of the can’t-miss trails leads to Arch Rock, offering a view that will make you think you’ve stepped onto another planet. Here, the stars at night are so bright, you’ll feel like you can touch them.
After a day of adventures, rest up at the Joshua Tree Inn. This spot is close to the park, with a charm that matches the wonder of the area.
View this post on Instagram
12. Olympic National Park
At Olympic National Park trees reach up so high they seem to touch the sky. You’ll discover oceanside cliffs and can spot creatures that live nowhere else on Earth. Walk along trails edged with ferns so plush, they look like they came from a fairy tale.
From the sparkling shores of Lake Crescent to the silent majesty of the misty Hoh Rain Forest, every corner is pure magic. Out here, the stars don’t just twinkle; they dazzle against the dark velvet night.
Now, when you need a good night’s sleep after your adventure, the Lake Crescent Lodge is a great spot. With a view of the lake and mountains, you’ll wake up feeling like part of the wildlandscape.
13. Denali National Park
In the vast wilds of Alaska, Denali National Park is a world where nature plays big. Here, North America’s tallest peak, Denali, stands tall with snowy shoulders. This six million-acre haven is a patchwork of deep-green forests and frozen tundra, with rivers and glaciers carving out the landscape over time.
Ride a bus down the park’s only road, your eyes wide with wonder as moose munch on willows and golden eagles soar above. Maybe you’ll spot a grizzly bear ambling along or wolves padding through the brush!
At night, the stars come out to play, and sometimes the Northern Lights dance just for you. After days filled with such sights, The Denali Bluffs Hotel gives you a snug place to rest. Tucked into the hillside, this spot offers stunning views, making it easy to soak up the beauty of Denali even from your window.
14. Sequoia and Kings Canyon
When you wander through Sequoia and Kings Canyon, you’re strolling among giants—the world’s largest trees reach for the sky, while canyons carve the Earth below.
You’ll find yourself gazing up, mouth wide open in awe, at the impressive General Sherman Tree, which is big enough to be its own skyscraper! In Kings Canyon, the cliffs stretch so high that you’ll tilt your head back to see the tops.
After all the day’s adventures, rest at the Wuksachi Lodge, nestled right in the heart of the forest.
View this post on Instagram
15. Arches National Park
In the heart of red rock country, Arches National Park welcomes you with vivid stone formations. Walk through a colorful landscape where natural stone arches reach up to the sky. These curved wonders are the stars of the park, with over 2,000 of them, and each one is unique.
Landscape Arch is a must-see. It’s so thin and long that you’ll wonder how it even stays up. Don’t miss the Balanced Rock either; it defies gravity in a way that might make you chuckle. For adventure seekers, the Fiery Furnace will make you feel like a maze runner, with its twists and turns among tall rock walls.
After a day of awe and fresh air, The Gonzo Inn in nearby Moab is a cool place to rest. Its cheerful colors and funky designs will make you smile even in your sleep.
