Discover America: Best Attractions and Things to Do
Welcome to our site, crafted to guide you through the United States’ vast and varied landscapes. From the towering skyscrapers of New York City to the majestic grandeur of the Grand Canyon, from the sun-kissed beaches of California to the historic streets of Boston, this country offers an unparalleled diversity of experiences. We aim to curate the best attractions, ensuring every traveler finds their ideal adventure.
The United States is a patchwork quilt of experiences, each piece distinct in character and beauty. Its diversity extends beyond its landscapes to its culinary scenes, cultural festivals, and historical monuments.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of cities like Chicago and Los Angeles, each boasting its unique blend of culture, food, and entertainment. Alternatively, the serene beauty of natural wonders like Yellowstone and Yosemite invites you to disconnect and explore the great outdoors.
Our site aims not just to highlight well-trodden paths but also to uncover hidden gems across the country. From the vibrant street art in Miami’s Wynwood Walls to the peaceful hikes in the Smoky Mountains, from the live jazz scenes of New Orleans to the innovative tech museums of Silicon Valley, we strive to showcase the breadth of what the United States offers.
This land of opportunity presents countless ways to create lasting memories, whether through exploring its natural wonders, experiencing its rich cultural tapestry, or indulging in its culinary delights.
Our site is here to ensure you discover the perfect blend of attractions, making your journey through the United States as enriching as it is exciting. Welcome to your adventure.
Best Attractions and Things to Do
Iconic Landmarks: Symbols of Majesty and Ingenuity
The United States is home to some of the world’s most recognizable structures and natural formations, each telling a story of the nation’s history and ambition.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, formerly known as “Liberty Enlightening the World,” is a colossal sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Its pedestal, which is 305 feet (93 meters), is also included in its height.
The statue represents a robed female figure, Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, who bears a torch and a tabula ansata inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence. A broken chain lies at her feet as she strides forward, symbolizing the abolition of slavery.
The statue’s copper structure was designed by French sculptor Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi, and its steel framework was constructed by none other than Gustave Eiffel.
The torch, accessible via a service ladder, offers an observation deck in the crown, providing visitors with panoramic cityscape views.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is an immense canyon carved by the Colorado River in northwestern Arizona. It is recognized for its visually overwhelming size and intricate and colorful landscape.
Geologically, it is significant because of the thick sequence of ancient rocks beautifully preserved and exposed in the canyon’s walls. These rock layers record much of the early geologic history of the North American continent.
The Grand Canyon is over 277 miles (446 km) long, up to 18 miles (29 km) wide, and over a mile (6,000 feet / 1,800 meters) deep. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the world’s great natural wonders.
Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the one-mile-wide strait connecting San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.
The bridge links San Francisco, California, to Marin County, carrying U.S. Route 101 and California State Route 1. Upon its completion in 1937, it was the world’s tallest and longest suspension bridge.
The bridge’s signature color, “international orange,” was selected by consulting architect Irving Morrow because it complements the natural surroundings and enhances the bridge’s visibility in fog.
The bridge’s construction was monumental and faced challenges such as strong tides, frequent storms, and fog. Despite these difficulties, the Golden Gate Bridge was completed and has become an iconic symbol of San Francisco and the United States.
These landmarks are important for their architectural and natural beauty and cultural and historical significance, representing the spirit of innovation and the rich history of the United States.
Cultural Hotspots: The Heartbeats of American Cities
The United States boasts an array of cultural hotspots, each offering a unique glimpse into the nation’s artistic and historical legacy.
Broadway
Located in the heart of New York City, Broadway is not just a street; it’s a global symbol of theatrical excellence. Stretching 13 miles through Manhattan, it cuts a diagonal swath across the city’s grid, making it a distinctive landmark.
The origins of Broadway date back to the Wickquasgeck trail, used by Native Americans, which was later transformed into a main thoroughfare by Dutch and British colonists.
Today, Broadway’s 41 professional theaters are celebrated for launching some of the most significant productions in American theater history.
French Quarter
The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, with a history that dates back to its founding in 1718.
Despite its name, much of the architecture is Spanish due to rebuilding efforts after two major fires during Spanish rule.
The Quarter is renowned for its vibrant music scene, particularly jazz, and its rich culinary heritage, which includes Creole cuisine.
It’s a place where history is palpable, and street performers and annual festivals accentuate the lively atmosphere.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Spanning 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street in Los Angeles, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a tribute to over 2,700 entertainers.
The stars on the sidewalk honor a mix of actors, musicians, directors, producers, and fictional characters. Established in 1960, the Walk of Fame is maintained by the Hollywood Historic Trust.
It remains a significant tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors to walk among the stars yearly.
These cultural hotspots are more than mere attractions; they are the living, breathing centers of American culture, offering experiences that resonate with the spirit of their respective cities.
Natural Wonders of the United States
Yellowstone National Park: Witness Geothermal Wonders and Diverse Wildlife
Yellowstone National Park, primarily in Wyoming, is renowned for its geothermal features and diverse wildlife.
The park hosts about half the world’s geysers, including the famous Old Faithful Geyser. It’s also home to various wildlife, such as grizzly bears, wolves, and elk.
The park spans 3,472 square miles and includes the world’s greatest concentration of hydrothermal features.
The park’s lower elevations are among the most diverse ecosystems in North America, and the Southern Appalachian spruce-fir forest that covers the upper elevations is the largest of its kind.
Niagara Falls: Feel the Power of the Cascading Waters
Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls straddling the border between Ontario in Canada and New York in the United States. Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three and sits on the international border between two countries.
The combined falls have the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America and a vertical drop of more than 50 meters. They are divided into two principal parts, separated by Goat Island.
The larger division, adjoining the Canadian bank, is Horseshoe Falls; its height is 188 feet (57 meters), and its curving crest line is about 2,200 feet (670 meters).
Great Smoky Mountains: Explore the Beauty of America’s Most Visited National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains are a mountain range in the southeastern United States, rising along the Tennessee–North Carolina border.
The Smokies are best known as the home of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which protects most of the range.
The park has an estimated 187,000 acres of old-growth forest, constituting the largest stand east of the Mississippi River.
The Smokies are home to the densest black bear population in the Eastern United States and the most diverse salamander population outside the tropics.
Family Fun
Walt Disney World: Create Magical Memories in Orlando
Walt Disney World, located in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, Florida, is an entertainment resort complex that spans nearly 25,000 acres.
The resort has four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each park offers a unique theme and a variety of attractions.
For instance, the first of the four parks built, Magic Kingdom is famous for its Cinderella Castle and six themed lands, including Adventureland, Tomorrowland, and Liberty Square.
Epcot, known for its Spaceship Earth geodesic sphere, celebrates technological innovation and international culture.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers behind-the-scenes looks at Hollywood-style action with live shows and exciting attractions.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the largest park, is themed entirely around animal conservation and features more than 300 species in various exhibits.
Smithsonian Museums: Learn and Discover in Washington D.C.
The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., is the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex.
It consists of 21 museums and the National Zoo. Each museum focuses on areas of learning from art, history, culture, science, and nature.
For instance, the National Air and Space Museum holds the world’s largest historic aircraft and spacecraft collection.
The National Museum of Natural History houses over 145 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum documenting African American life, history, and culture.
San Diego Zoo: Encounter Exotic Animals in Their Habitats
The San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park, San Diego, California, is home to over 12,000 animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies.
The zoo spans 100 acres and is known for its open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats. It’s one of the few zoos in the world that houses and successfully breeds the giant panda.
The zoo also features numerous exhibits, including Monkey Trails, Elephant Odyssey, Tiger River, and the Outback area, which houses Australian wildlife. The zoo’s botanical collection includes more than 700,000 exotic plants.
Adventure Seekers
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Get Up Close with Active Volcanoes
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located in the U.S. state of Hawaii on the island of Hawaii, is home to two active volcanoes: Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world’s largest shield volcano.
The park provides scientists with insight into the development of the Hawaiian Islands and access to studies of volcanism.
The park offers visitors dramatic volcanic landscapes, glimpses of rare flora and fauna, and a view of the traditional Hawaiian culture connected to these landscapes.
The park was originally established on August 1, 1916, as Hawaii National Park, which was then split into this park and Haleakalā National Park.
In recognition of its outstanding natural values, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park was designated as an International Biosphere Reserve in 1980 and a World Heritage Site in 1987.
Alaska’s Denali: Embark on a Wilderness Adventure
Denali, also called Mount McKinley, is the tallest mountain in North America, located in south-central Alaska.
With a peak that reaches 6,190 meters (20,310 feet) above sea level, Denali is the third-highest of the Seven Summits (the tallest mountains on all seven continents). Denali is about 210 kilometers (130 miles) north-northwest of Anchorage.
Sixty million years ago, tectonic uplift pushed Earth’s crust upward, forming Denali and the other Alaska Range mountains. Denali is the centerpiece of the Denali National Park and Preserve, which spans 2.4 million hectares (6 million acres).
Colorado Rockies: Hit the Slopes or Hike the Trails
The Colorado Rockies are a temperate coniferous forest ecoregion of the United States. This ecoregion is located in the highest ranges of the Rocky Mountains, in central and western Colorado, northern New Mexico, and southeastern Wyoming, and experiences a dry continental climate.
The Colorado Rockies forests are home to diverse flora and fauna and offer various outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and viewing wildlife.
In winter, the Colorado Rockies transform into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders worldwide.
Food and Drink
Napa Valley: Savor World-Renowned Wines
Napa Valley, a picturesque region in California, is globally recognized for its world-class wines. The valley is home to nearly 400 wineries, many of which adopt sustainable practices to make grape growing less water-intensive.
The region’s unique ecosystem, rose bushes, and golden vine-covered hills create an ideal environment for languorous lunches and wine tastings.
One of the standout experiences in Napa Valley is the tasting of organic Cabernet Sauvignons at Faust Haus, presented in a chic, matt-black Queen Anne building.
Another must-visit is Ashes & Diamonds, a campus-like winery that takes its cues from mid-century modernism. Their highly-rated grand vins are more in demand than ever.
Austin: Indulge in the Eclectic Food Scene
Austin, Texas, is a food lover’s paradise, offering diverse culinary experiences. The city’s food scene has evolved significantly, with food trucks testing innovative dishes and brick-and-mortar restaurants serving various cuisines.
One of the city’s iconic dishes is the Brisket Fried Rice at Old Thousand, a Chinese restaurant that blends authenticity with a casual, date-worthy ambiance.
Another must-try is the Akashi Beef Bone Marrow Nigiri at Sushi | Bar ATX, a delicacy that melts in your mouth like decadent, meat-infused butter.
Chicago: Taste the Iconic Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago, Illinois, is renowned for its deep-dish pizza, a culinary icon that sets the city apart. This unique style of pizza features a buttery, flaky crust, a thick layer of cheese, and a hearty tomato sauce.
Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria are among the city’s most popular deep-dish pizza destinations.
These establishments serve mouthwatering pies with caramelized crusts and premium toppings. Another notable mention is Burt’s Place, which continues to serve delicious pan pizzas with caramelized crusts.
Historical Journeys
Gettysburg Battlefield: Reflect on a Pivotal Moment in American History
Gettysburg Battlefield, located in Adams County, Pennsylvania, is the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, which marked the turning point of the Civil War.
The battle occurred from July 1 to 3, 1863, and resulted in an estimated 51,000 casualties, making it the bloodiest single battle of the entire war.
The battlefield spans ten miles from the Maryland border in Pennsylvania. It includes landmarks such as Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, Devil’s Den, Peach Orchard, Culp’s Hill, and Cemetery Hill. The battlefield is a reminder of a critical moment in American history.
Independence Hall: Visit the Birthplace of the United States
Independence Hall, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a historic civic building where the United States Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and adopted.
The building, completed in 1753, originally housed all three branches of Pennsylvania’s colonial government.
It was the principal meeting place of the Second Continental Congress from 1775 to 1781 and was the site of the Constitutional Convention in 1787.
Independence Hall is recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing the universal principles of freedom and democracy.
Mount Rushmore: Gaze Upon the Faces of Four Influential Presidents
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, features the 60-foot-tall heads of four United States presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.
The monument was sculpted by Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln Borglum, between 1927 and 1941.
Each president was chosen to represent a significant aspect of American history: Washington for the country’s birth, Jefferson for its expansion, Roosevelt for its development, and Lincoln for its preservation.
Today, Mount Rushmore attracts more than two million visitors annually, making it one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States.
Coast-to-Coast Road Trips
Route 66: Drive the Classic American Highway
Route 66, also known as the Main Street of America or the Mother Road, was one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System.
Established on November 11, 1926, it ran from Chicago, Illinois, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona before ending in Santa Monica, California, covering 2,448 miles.
The highway became one of the most famous roads in the United States, serving as a major path for those who migrated west, especially during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.
Today, driving Route 66 offers a glimpse into the past. It takes travelers through small towns, past vintage motels, and service stations and provides a taste of classic Americana.
Pacific Coast Highway: Experience Stunning Ocean Views
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most scenic drives in the world, offering breathtaking ocean views and incredible natural beauty.
The PCH runs along the Washington, Oregon, and California coasts, providing a continuous link between the three states. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush forests.
Along the way, travelers can explore charming coastal towns, visit state and national parks, and enjoy various outdoor activities.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Enjoy the Scenic Appalachian Landscapes
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway and All-American Road in the United States, noted for its scenic beauty.
The parkway runs 469 miles through 29 counties in Virginia and North Carolina, linking Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It runs mostly along the spine of the Blue Ridge, a major mountain chain part of the Appalachian Mountains.
The parkway offers views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, hosting diverse flora and fauna. Travelers can explore numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds.
Vibrant City Life
New York City: The Big Apple’s Endless Urban Adventures
New York City, often called NYC or simply New York, is the most populous city in the United States. Located at the southern tip of New York State on one of the world’s largest natural harbors, the city comprises five boroughs, each coextensive with a respective county.
It is a global city and a cultural, financial, high-tech, entertainment, and media center with a significant influence on commerce, health care, scientific output, life sciences, research, technology, education, politics, tourism, dining, art, fashion, and sports.
Home to the headquarters of the United Nations, New York is an important center for international diplomacy.
Chicago: Architectural Wonders and Lakeside Attractions
Chicago, the most populous city in the U.S. state of Illinois and the Midwestern United States is the third-most populous city in the United States after New York City and Los Angeles.
As the seat of Cook County, the second-most populous county in the U.S., Chicago is the center of the Chicago metropolitan area, often colloquially called “Chicagoland” and home to 9.6 million residents.
Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago was incorporated as a city in 1837 near a portage between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River watershed. It grew rapidly in the mid-19th century.
Los Angeles: A Sprawling City of Dreams and Diverse Cultures
Los Angeles, often referred to by its initials L.A., is the most populous city in the U.S. state of California.
As of 2020, Los Angeles had roughly 3.9 million residents within its city limits, making it the second-most populous city in the United States, behind only New York City. Los Angeles is also Southern California’s commercial, financial, and cultural center.
It has a Mediterranean climate, an ethnically and culturally diverse population, and is the principal city of a metropolitan area of 13.2 million people.
Festivals and Fairs
Mardi Gras: New Orleans’ Legendary Carnival Celebration
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is a festive day celebrated in France on Shrove Tuesday (the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday), which marks the close of the pre-Lenten season.
The French name Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday, from the custom of using all the fats in the home before Lent in preparation for fasting and abstinence.
The principal Mardi Gras celebration in the United States is in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Carnival season there opens on Twelfth Night (also called Epiphany, which is observed on January 6) and climaxes with the Mardi Gras festivities commencing ten days before Shrove Tuesday.
This period is filled with citywide revelry and elaborate parades, both day and night, building up to Mardi Gras and the Rex parade.
Beads of gold, green, and purple (representing power, faith, and justice, respectively) are commonly distributed, and eating king cake is an iconic part of the celebration.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta: A Sky Filled with Color
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a yearly hot-air balloon festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in early October.
It is a nine-day event occurring in the first full week of October and has over 500 hot-air balloons each year, far from its beginnings of merely 13 balloons in 1972. The event is the world’s largest balloon festival.
The fiesta begins with a dawn patrol, followed by mass ascensions, gas balloon races, balloon glows in the morning and evening, and competitions.
The dawn patrol involves a dawn patrol crew’s early morning balloon launch, which helps assess the weather conditions and wind properties.
The mass ascension is probably the biggest event of the fiesta, with the balloons launching in two waves. This mass launch creates a colorful balloon-filled sky, a unique and attractive site for local and international tourists.
State Fairs: Celebrating Americana from Texas to Minnesota
A state fair is an annual competitive and recreational gathering of a U.S. state’s population, usually held in late summer or early fall.
It is a larger version of a county fair, often including only exhibits or competitors that have won in their categories at the more local county fairs.
State fairs began in the nineteenth century to promote state agriculture through competitive exhibitions of livestock and display of farm products.
As the U.S. evolved from a predominantly agrarian to an industrial society in the twentieth century and the more service economy of the 21st century, modern state fairs have expanded to include carnival amusement rides and games, display of industrial products, automobile racing, and entertainment such as musical concerts.
Large fairs can admit more than a million visitors for a week or two. The first U.S. state fair was that of New York, held in 1841 in Syracuse and has been held annually since.
Parades and Public Celebrations
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: A Beloved Holiday Tradition
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an iconic American tradition celebrated since 1924. The parade runs up Central Park West and 6th Ave in New York City and features an impressive display of floats, marching bands, musical acts, and iconic oversized balloons of famed pop culture characters.
The parade is watched by hundreds of thousands of spectators and is such a success that it has been held annually, except during World War II and in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The parade starts at 9 am and runs for roughly three hours. The event concludes with the arrival of Santa Claus, signaling the start of the holiday season.
Rose Parade: Floral Floats and Festivities to Ring in the New Year
The Rose Parade, also known as the Tournament of Roses Parade, is an annual parade held mostly along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California, on New Year’s Day. The parade usually starts at 8 am and includes flower-covered floats, marching bands, and equestrian units.
The Rose Bowl, a major college football game, follows the parade in the afternoon. The Rose Parade travels 5 ½ miles down Colorado Blvd.
It features four types of entries: floral-decorated floats entered by a participating corporation, non-profit organization or municipality, equestrian units, bands, and Tournament Entries.
Pride Parades: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion Across the Nation
Pride Parades are public events that commemorate the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating the progress made toward equality and advocating for the community’s rights.
These parades celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender social and self-acceptance, achievements, legal rights, and pride. They sometimes also serve as demonstrations for legal rights, such as same-sex marriage.
Most occur annually throughout the Western world, while some occur every June to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York City, a pivotal moment in modern LGBT social movements.
Museums and Learning Centers
The Field Museum: Natural History and Cultures in Chicago
The Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois, is a world-renowned natural history museum that attracts millions of visitors annually. The museum’s collection grew from items displayed in the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in the “White City.”
The museum’s name honors its first major benefactor, Marshall Field, who donated $1 million to make the collective dream of a permanent museum a reality. Since opening the Museum in 1894, the collection has grown to nearly 40 million artifacts and specimens.
The museum continues to research the objects in its collections, document previously unknown species, conserve ecosystems in our backyard and across the globe, educate budding scientists, invite cross-cultural conversation, and more.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): A Premier Art Gallery in New York
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), located in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, is one of the most influential art institutions in the world. Established in 1929, MoMA is dedicated to being the foremost museum of modern art.
Its collection offers an overview of modern and contemporary art, including architecture and design, drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, prints, illustrated books, artist’s books, film, and electronic media.
MoMA’s library and archives hold over 300,000 books, artist books, periodicals, and individual files on more than 70,000 artists. The archives contain primary source material related to modern and contemporary art history. It also houses a restaurant, cafes, and a bookstore.
The museum is a dynamic center for modern art that is always looking forward. Its program includes traveling exhibitions, extensive educational programs, a research library, and one of the world’s most distinguished modern and contemporary art collections.
The National WWII Museum: America’s Involvement in WWII in New Orleans
The National WWII Museum, formerly The National D-Day Museum, is a military history museum in the Central Business District of New Orleans, Louisiana. The museum focuses on the contribution made by the United States to the Allied victory in World War II.
Founded in 2000, the museum is a Smithsonian Institution-affiliated museum designated by the U.S. Congress as America’s official National WWII Museum in 2004. Its mission statement emphasizes the American experience in World War II.
The museum maintains a temporary exhibition program of traveling shows and in-house-produced topical exhibitions. The professional staff maintains collections of over 24 million specimens and objects that provide the basis for the museum’s scientific research programs.
Educational Landmarks
Ivy League Tour: Explore America’s Oldest and Most Prestigious Universities
An Ivy League tour is a comprehensive visit and exploration of the eight prestigious universities in the United States.
These institutions include Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton University, and Yale University.
A tour of the Ivy League allows students to visit some of the most demanded travel destinations, such as New York City, Philadelphia, PA, and Boston, MA.
This tour will surely excite college-bound students for its highest academically challenging institutions and exciting educational stops.
MIT and Stanford: Discover the Leading Edges of Science and Technology
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Stanford University are two of the world’s most renowned and selective institutions of higher learning.
MIT, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is known for its cutting-edge research and innovation in artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology. The university has produced numerous Nobel laureates, Rhodes Scholars, and MacArthur Fellows.
Conversely, Stanford University is located in Palo Alto, California, and has a strong reputation for entrepreneurship and innovation.
It is located in the heart of Silicon Valley, which has allowed it to forge strong partnerships with tech companies and startups. Stanford has produced many successful entrepreneurs, including the founders of Google, Yahoo, and Nike.
Experience the Heritage and Culture of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are higher education institutions in the United States that were established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to serve African Americans primarily.
These institutions were founded during Reconstruction after the Civil War and are concentrated in the Southern United States.
Protestant religious groups primarily founded them until the Second Morrill Act of 1890 required educationally segregated states to provide African American public higher-education schools to receive the Act’s benefits.
HBCUs were established to provide more opportunities to African Americans and are largely responsible for establishing and expanding the African-American middle class. There are 101 HBCUs in the United States, representing three percent of the nation’s colleges.
Science and Innovation
Kennedy Space Center: Get a Close-Up View of America’s Space Exploration Efforts
The Kennedy Space Center, located on Merritt Island, Florida, is one of NASA’s ten field centers and has been the primary launch center for human spaceflight since 1968.
The center encompasses 144,000 acres and includes facilities such as the Vehicle Assembly Building and the Launch Control Center.
The center has been instrumental in launching numerous historic missions, including the Apollo moon landing missions and the space shuttle program.
Today, the center continues facilitating space exploration efforts, including the Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the moon.
Silicon Valley Tech Tours: Visit the Birthplace of Global Technology Giants
Silicon Valley, located in the southern San Francisco Bay Area of California, is known as the birthplace of many global technology giants.
A tech tour in Silicon Valley allows visitors to visit the campuses of tech giants such as Apple, Google, and Facebook.
These tours offer hands-on experiences with the latest tech gadgets, meetings with disruptive companies, and insights into innovation in various industries.
From learning about new technologies to meeting the minds behind disruptive startups, a Silicon Valley tech tour offers a unique insight into the world of technology.
National Renewable Energy Laboratory: Learn About the Future of Energy
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), located in Golden, Colorado, is dedicated to the research, development, commercialization, and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.
As one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s national laboratories, NREL conducts research in areas such as solar energy, wind energy, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient buildings.
The laboratory’s mission is to advance the science and engineering of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies and to provide knowledge and innovations to address the nation’s energy and environmental goals.
Conservation and Nature Reserves
Yosemite National Park, Californi
Yosemite National Park, located in Northern California, is a testament to the beauty of the American wilderness.
Spanning 747,956 acres, the park is internationally recognized for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, giant sequoia groves, lakes, mountains, glaciers, and biological diversity.
The park is home to the highest waterfall in Yosemite, dropping 2,425 feet from the top of the upper fall to the base of the lower fall.
The park’s major features include the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome, the towering waterfalls, and the giant sequoias, underscoring the importance of conservation.
Everglades National Park, Florida: A Unique Ecosystem and a Haven for Endangered Species
Everglades National Park, located in Florida, is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States. The park protects the southern twenty percent of the original Everglades, making it the largest wilderness of any kind east of the Mississippi River.
The park has numerous rare and endangered species, including the American crocodile and the Florida panther.
The Everglades are a network of wetlands and forests fed by a river flowing out of Lake Okeechobee, southwest into Florida Bay.
The park offers a range of activities, such as canoeing, hiking, and bird-watching, providing visitors with numerous opportunities to appreciate its unique ecosystem.
Acadia National Park, Maine: Preserving the Natural Beauty of the Northeastern U.S.
Acadia National Park, located in Maine, is celebrated for its rugged coastline, forested islands, and diverse wildlife.
The park protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the United States. The park spans 49,052 acres and is one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States.
The park’s landscapes, from its rocky shores to its forested peaks, are a testament to the success of conservation efforts in preserving the natural beauty of the Northeastern U.S.
Malls and Shopping Districts
The Mall of America, Bloomington, MN: Experience the Nation’s Largest Shopping and Entertainment Center
The Mall of America, located in Bloomington, Minnesota, is the largest in the United States regarding total floor area, including the Nickelodeon Universe.
It opened in 1992 and is home to over 500 stores, theme parks, and aquariums. The mall is a prime hospitality, dining, and retail destination, featuring high-end boutiques like Gucci and Burberry and pocket-friendly department stores.
The mall’s concept was designed by the Triple Five Group, owned by the Ghermezian brothers, who also own the largest shopping mall in North America, the West Edmonton Mall.
Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA: Walk Through This World-Renowned Shopping District
With luxury stores and fashion boutiques, Rodeo Drive is a two-mile-long street in Beverly Hills, California, known as one of the most expensive streets in the world.
Its southern terminus is at Beverwil Drive, and its northern terminus is at its intersection with Sunset Boulevard in Beverly Hills.
The street is home to over one hundred leading international brands housed in exemplary, architect-designed boutiques along its three palm-dotted blocks. Discover exceptional savoir-faire, craftsmanship, and new experiences in luxury, art, and culture.
The Magnificent Mile, Chicago, IL: Discover a Premier Commercial District
The Magnificent Mile, also known as The Mag Mile, is an upscale section of Chicago’s Michigan Avenue, running from the banks of the Chicago River to Oak Street in the Near North Side.
It is Chicago’s largest shopping district, with approximately 3.1 million square feet occupied by retail, restaurants, museums, and hotels.
The district is located within downtown and one block east of Rush Street, serving as the main thoroughfare between Chicago’s Loop business district and its Gold Coast.
The district has several art galleries, historical landmarks, hotels, restaurants, and drinking establishments.
Hotels and Accommodations
Unique Boutique Hotels: Explore the Charm and Personalized Service of Boutique Accommodations
- The Saguaro, Palm Springs, CA: A Colorful Desert Oasis Inspired by the Vibrant Hues of Southwest Culture
The Saguaro Palm Springs is a vibrant hotel in the desert, offering plenty of sunshine, a buzzing pool scene, and lots of local flavor.
The 244-room hotel features multiple restaurants, bars, and meeting spaces, all surrounding a stunning pool location.
The bold color palette, designed to reflect the colorful, vibrant spirit of the Coachella Valley desert, is the work of renowned architects Peter Stamberg and Paul Aferiat.
- The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston, MA: A Transformed Historic Jail Blending History with High-End Luxury
The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Boston, blends history, sophistication, and hometown warmth. Located at the foot of Beacon Hill, this Boston Jail hotel is steps away from outdoor fun on the Esplanade and posh shopping along Charles Street.
This refined 298-room hotel originated as the storied Charles Street Jail and now showcases sweeping views of the Boston city skyline and the Charles River.
Iconic Luxury Hotels: Stay in Some of the Most Iconic Hotels That Offer Unparalleled Luxury and Service
- The Plaza, New York City, NY: A Landmark 20th-Century Hotel Known for Its Grandeur and History
The Plaza Hotel, located in Central Park South, has been a New York icon since its debut on October 1, 1907. It has hosted world leaders, dignitaries, captains of industry, Broadway legends, and Hollywood royalty.
The Plaza’s prestigious address continues to define elegance with unmatched service and an ever-evolving modern sensibility.
- The Beverly Hills Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA: Experience the Pinnacle of Hollywood Luxury and Exclusivity
The Beverly Hills Hotel, also known as “The Pink Palace,” is a luxury hotel on Sunset Boulevard that offers a full-service Spa and a beautiful outdoor pool.
The hotel has been chosen for Hollywood’s brightest lights and has been hosting world leaders, dignitaries, captains of industry, Broadway legends, and Hollywood royalty for over a century.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Stays: Discover Hotels Leading the Way in Sustainability Without Compromising on Comfort
- 1 Hotel Central Park, New York City, NY: A Testament to Modern Eco-Conscious Design and Practices, Right in the Heart of Manhattan
1 Hotel Central Park is a sustainable hotel inspired by nature located in New York. Each room provides air conditioning and a seating area, featuring a shower and private bathrooms, and comes with a hairdryer, cotton slipper socks, and bathrobes.
- The Proximity Hotel, Greensboro, NC: Known for Its Sustainable Practices and LEED Platinum Certification
The Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina, is the first Platinum LEED-certified green hotel in the United States.
Opened in 2007, this 147-room luxury boutique hotel has over 5,000 square feet of meeting and event space and a full-service restaurant.
The hotel utilized more than 70 sustainable practices during construction and is a model for green hotel construction.
Sports and Recreation
Major League Games: Experience the Excitement of American Sports Culture
Major League Baseball (MLB) is a professional baseball league with the highest level of organized baseball in the United States and Canada.
One of the four major leagues, MLB, comprises 30 teams, divided equally between the National League (NL) and the American League (AL), with 29 in the United States and 1 in Canada.
Formed in 1876 and 1901, the NL and AL cemented their cooperation with the National Agreement in 1903, making MLB the world’s oldest major professional sports league.
They remained legally separate entities until 2000 when they merged into a single organization led by the Commissioner of Baseball.
Outdoor Adventure Sports: From Rafting in Colorado to Surfing in Hawaii
Outdoor adventure sports encompass a wide range of activities that combine the thrill of physical exertion with the beauty of nature.
These activities often involve speed, height, danger, or high levels of physical exertion and can occur in various environments, from mountains to oceans.
Examples of outdoor adventure sports include downhill skateboarding, ice swimming, extreme downhill mountain biking, and many more.
These sports offer an adrenaline rush and a chance to connect with nature, making them popular for thrill-seekers and nature lovers.
Collegiate Athletics: Witness the Passion of College Sports Events
Collegiate athletics refers to sports played at the college level by student-athletes enrolled in colleges and universities.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is a nonprofit organization that regulates student athletics among about 1,100 schools in the United States and one in Canada.
It also organizes the athletic programs of colleges and helps over 500,000 college student-athletes who compete annually in college sports. The NCAA is divided into three divisions, with Division I being the highest level of competition.
Arts, Literature, and Music
Wynwood Walls, Miami: Immerse Yourself in One of the Most Famous Street Art Districts
Wynwood Walls, located in Miami, is the world’s largest outdoor street art museum and serves as the epicenter of creativity for Miami’s Arts District.
Wynwood Walls, known as “the Olympics of Street Art,” features murals in Miami’s Wynwood warehouse district. It ranks among the world’s largest open-air art installations.
The Walls began in 2009 when the late Tony Goldman used the walls of the warehouses as canvases for artists to create art.
He successfully built a bustling community out of the ashes of a forgotten neighborhood. Every wall has been transformed into a giant canvas, arguably creating the greatest collection of street art ever seen in one place.
Literary Tours: Follow the Paths of Famous American Writers, from Mark Twain to Toni Morrison
Literary tours offer a unique way to pay tribute to your favorite authors or characters by following in their footsteps.
These tours take you on a journey from the homes and haunts of famous authors to the settings of their most iconic works.
From the streets of Dublin that inspired James Joyce to the Boston landmarks frequented by the Fireside Poets, literary tours offer a deep dive into the worlds these authors inhabited and the landscapes they immortalized in their works.
Jazz, Blues, and Beyond Explore America’s Musical Roots in Cities like Memphis and Chicago
Jazz, a musical form often improvisational, was developed by African Americans and influenced by European harmonic structure and African rhythms.
Syncopated rhythms, polyphonic ensemble playing, and the use of original timbres often characterize it.
From its beginnings at the turn of the 20th century, jazz has been a constantly evolving, expanding, and changing music, passing through several distinctive phases of development.
Jazz can express many different emotions, from pain to sheer joy. In jazz, you may hear the sounds of freedom—for the music has been a powerful voice for people suffering unfair treatment because of the color of their skin or because they lived in a country run by a cruel dictator.
Architectural Wonders
Chicago’s Skyline: A Testament to Architectural Innovation
Chicago’s skyline is a dazzling display of architectural innovation and a testament to the human ability to alter landscapes beautifully.
The skyline is an amalgamation of more than a century of architectural styles, building materials, attainable heights, and sustainability efforts.
It boasts several of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, including the Willis Tower, the tallest building in the world for much of the 20th century. The skyline you see today is best viewed from Lake Michigan.
High Line, New York, NY: A Model for the Transformation of Urban Spaces
The High Line is a public park built on a historic freight rail line above Manhattan’s West Side streets.
Saved from demolition by neighborhood residents and the City of New York, the High Line opened in 2009 as a hybrid public space where visitors experience nature, art, and design.
The park is built on a 1.45-mile-long, elevated freight rail structure. It is managed by the non-profit organization Friends of the High Line, which is under the jurisdiction of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.
The High Line is a popular and unique park in the City. Built on a once-abandoned elevated rail line, the green space offers unparalleled views of the city and the Hudson River. The park’s design is a collaboration between James Corner Field Operations, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and Piet Oudolf.
The abandoned spur has been redesigned as a “living system,” drawing from multiple disciplines, including landscape architecture, urban design, and ecology. The High Line was inspired by the 2.9-mile-long Coulée verte (tree-lined walkway), a similar project in Paris completed in 1993.
Frank Lloyd Wright Homes: Tour the Works of America’s Greatest Architect
Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959) was one of the most influential architects of the 20th century. Wright designed more than 1,000 buildings during a career that spanned 70 years.
His designs collapsed the boundaries between indoors and out, and his innovative structures were built with a combination of local materials like natural stone and modern materials such as concrete and steel.
Some of his most famous homes include Fallingwater House in rural Mill Run, PA, The Martin House in Buffalo, NY, and the Hanna-Honeycomb House in Stanford, CA.
American Craft and Folk Art
Appalachian Craft Centers: Discover Traditional American Craftsmanship
The Appalachian Craft Center, located in Asheville, North Carolina, is a haven for art enthusiasts and admirers of handmade crafts.
Located in the Appalachian region, the center celebrates the talent and craftsmanship of local artists. It offers a wide range of one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Every item available at the Appalachian Craft Center is meticulously crafted with love and dedication. The center serves as a platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with a wider audience.
Native American Art Galleries: Experience the Art and Culture of the First Americans
Native American art refers to artwork created by the original native people of the Americas. The art form encompasses the expressive culture associated with folklore and cultural heritage.
Native art from the Americas includes Native American sculpture, textiles, basket weaving, Native American paintings, murals, and Native American drawings from North and South America, as well as parts of Siberia, Alaska, and Greenland.
The Denver Art Museum holds one of the most comprehensive collections from this region—with particular strengths in art from the Plains and the Southwest.
Folk Art Festivals: Celebrate Grassroots Art Across the Country
A folk festival celebrates traditional folk crafts and folk music. The types of works on display at a folk festival typically include quilts, ceramics, jewelry, woodcarvings, baskets, and artisan clothing.
Unlike professionally trained fine artists, folk artists frequently are self-taught or have learned their craft through an apprenticeship.
Folk festivals may also feature folk dance or ethnic foods. These festivals offer a unique way to pay tribute to your favorite authors or characters by following in their footsteps.
Spiritual and Religious Sites
National Cathedrals and Historic Churches: Explore the Country’s Spiritual Diversity
The United States is home to many spiritual and religious sites, many represented by historic churches and national cathedrals. One example is the Washington National Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.
Chartered by the U.S. Congress in 1893 and established on Mount St. Alban, the highest point in Washington D.C., in 1907, the cathedral is a testament to the country’s rich spiritual history.
The cathedral, designed and constructed in the 14th-century English Gothic style, is built without steel support, making it a true architectural marvel. It serves as a place of worship, a venue for cultural events, and a symbol of unity for the nation.
Native American Ceremonial Sites: Understand the Spiritual Heritage of America’s Indigenous Peoples
Native American ceremonial sites are sacred spaces indigenous tribes use for rituals and spiritual practices.
These sites, often marked by stone structures or located in significant natural settings, provide a glimpse into the rich spiritual heritage of America’s indigenous peoples.
They serve as a testament to the deep connection between these communities and the natural world, and their belief systems often reflect a profound respect for the environment.
Visiting these sites offers a unique opportunity to learn about Native American cultures and their spiritual beliefs.
Modern Spiritual Movements: Visit Centers for Contemporary Religious and Spiritual Practices
Modern spiritual movements encompass many beliefs and practices that have emerged in recent centuries.
These movements often draw on elements from traditional religions, philosophy, and psychology, typically emphasizing personal spiritual experience.
Examples of modern spiritual movements include New Age spirituality, which incorporates beliefs from various Eastern and Western traditions, and Spiritualism, which emerged in the 19th century and centers on communication with the spirits of the deceased.
Centers for these movements can be found across the country. They offer resources for study and practice and opportunities for communal worship and individual spiritual exploration.
Discover America
America, a land of diverse landscapes and cultures, offers many attractions and experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. From the vibrant city life in New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles to the serene beauty of national wildlife refuges and marine protected areas, there’s something for everyone.
For those interested in history and architecture, the country’s historic churches, Ivy League universities, and modern architectural marvels glimpse America’s rich past and innovative present.
Sports enthusiasts can experience the excitement of major league games and college sports events. At the same time, food lovers can indulge in the country’s diverse culinary scene, from the world-renowned wines of Napa Valley to the iconic deep-dish pizza of Chicago.
Art and music lovers can immerse themselves in the country’s vibrant arts scene, from the street art districts of Miami to the jazz and blues roots of Memphis and Chicago.
Shoppers can explore the nation’s largest shopping and entertainment center in Minnesota or walk through the world-renowned shopping district of Beverly Hills.
For those seeking spiritual and educational enrichment, the country offers a range of religious sites, museums, and learning centers. And for the eco-conscious traveler, there are eco-friendly hotels and sustainable stays that don’t compromise on comfort.
In conclusion, America is a melting pot of experiences waiting to be discovered. So, embark on this journey and explore the rich tapestry of experiences that America has to offer. Happy exploring!
