places in america to visit before you die

• Dominican Republic
• Riviera Maya
• New York City
• All Destinations >

• All-Inclusive
• Kid-Friendly
• All Collections >

• What's New
• Rookie Mistakes
• Luxury for Less
• Destination Cheat Sheets
• Travel Safety
• Travel Tips
• Hidden Gems
• Steamy Travel
• Health and Wellness Travel
• All Stories >

• Adults Only Travel

By proceeding, you agree to our  Privacy Policy and  Terms of Use .

USA Travel Bucket List: 50 Places to Visit Before You Die

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media. Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two young children, and their dog, Indiana Bones (Indy). The Handy Item I Always Pack: Kindle Ultimate Bucket List Experience: Some sort of wellness retreat somewhere exotic. Travel Motto: Be flexible Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, if you prefer a middle seat, please message me so I can write an article about you.

While we’re often daydreaming of beaches in the Maldives and vineyards in Tuscany, there are plenty of amazing destinations in our own backyard. To help you with your bucket list, we’ve rounded up 50 places you must visit in the United States before you die — in no particular order.

1. New York City

One of the most-visited places in the world, New York City has numerous attractions, a multicultural population, and something for all types of travelers. Tourists should be sure to fit in a trip to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Empire State Building or One World Trade Center, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square. Central Park offers a respite from the crowds, museums are impressive, and a show on Broadway followed by a slice of pizza is an ideal night out.

2. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The second-most popular national park in the U.S., the Grand Canyon in Arizona wows with its Colorado River-formed canyon, which stretches 277 miles long and over a mile deep. Visitors can see the park from scenic lookout points, via a stunning helicopter ride , during whitewater rafting, while riding a mule, or by hiking down and back.

3. Disney World, Florida

One of the most magical places for people of all ages, the massive Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando has four fun theme parks. Magic Kingdom has the breathtaking Cinderella Castle and nightly fireworks shows, while Epcot allows park-goers to travel around the globe by showcasing 11 different countries — think a pagoda in Japan, a biergarten in Germany, and Eiffel Tower views in France.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana

Vibrant, historic, and downright fun, New Orleans is a popular city throughout the year. While most people know about the city’s rambunctious Mardi Gras celebrations, NOLA also offers world-class jazz music, delicious Creole and Cajun cuisines, art galleries, ghost tours, and notable buildings such as the 18th-century St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is best explored with a coffee and beignet or a frozen cocktail in hand.

5. San Antonio Missions, Texas

Sure, you probably know about The Alamo in San Antonio, but it’s actually one of five Spanish missions found across the city. The oldest is Mission Espada , which was built in 1690; original frescoes are still visible inside Mission Concepcion ; and the largest is Mission San José . Visitors can bike or drive between the missions, and park rangers provide free tours.

6. Niagara Falls, New York

While we’d argue that Niagara Falls is more impressive from the Canadian side , you can still witness the three stunning waterfalls without a passport. Head to Prospect Point in Niagara Falls State Park for a stellar vantage point, or consider a Maid of the Mist boat tour for a more up-close-and-personal view. Also worth a visit is Cave of the Winds , which is set behind Bridal Veil Falls and offers visitors a sensational view of the falls, often accompanied by a beautiful rainbow.

7. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Opened in 1937, the famous Golden Gate Bridge is an orange-colored suspension bridge that impresses with its main span of 4,200 feet and a total height of 746 feet. It connects San Francisco to Marin County, where the Golden Gate National Recreation Area has hiking, historical attractions, and lovely vistas of the bridge and San Francisco. After snapping a photo on land, travelers can bike or walk across the bridge for more picturesque views.

8. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Both a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most frequented national park in America. The gorgeous park is located in both Tennessee and North Carolina, and it has tons of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and water tubing. Fall also offers striking foliage.

9. Washington, D.C.

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., is a must-visit for anyone who wants to see where the government is run. From the White House to the Capitol to the Supreme Court Building, all three branches of government are found here, in addition to historical monuments such as the [Lincoln Memorial](Lincoln Memorial), the Washington Monument , and World War II Memorial . Visitors can also spend hours touring the various Smithsonian museums within the National Mall .

10. Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

One of the most well-known geological features in the country, Old Faithful , is a cone geyser within Yellowstone National Park . It was discovered in 1870 and got its name from its frequent and generally predictable eruptions, which occur about every 60 to 110 minutes. An average eruption is 130 to 140 feet high, expelling 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of water (depending on the length of the eruption).

Related: The 6 Best National Parks for Winter Wildlife Spotting

11. South Beach, Miami

South Beach is Miami‘s trendy hot spot, home to one of the prettiest beaches in America, gorgeous Art Deco architecture, tasty Cuban fare, and popular nightlife spots. A Latin American influence pervades the city at large, and in South Beach, tourists can shop at fancy boutiques, eat cheap Cuban sandwiches, and lounge at posh beach clubs . A beachside boardwalk is great for strolling or biking and, of course, people-watching.

12. The Narrows, Zion National Park

Within Utah’s Zion National Park , The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. It’s the park’s most popular hike due to its striking setting within a gorge, where the river acts as the trail. Hikers must wade in water that varies from ankle- to waist-deep. It’s particularly pleasant in the hot summer months, but visitors should stay on top of weather conditions, as it’s known for dangerous flash flooding.

13. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Surrounded by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is a charming artsy town with a strong Native American influence. Pueblo-style architecture, a central plaza where vendors sell various handicrafts, and historic sights such as Loretto Chapel give the city a unique feel, plus there’s plenty to keep busy throughout the year. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and restaurants serving New Mexican cuisine are additional highlights.

14. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Whether you choose to drive the entire 659 miles of the Pacific Coast Highway or just a fraction thereof, you’ll be rewarded with sensational vistas. Certain routes can be done in a day, but we recommend taking your time by starting in San Francisco and slowly making your way to Orange County. The best views are arguably in Big Sur, where you’ll find rugged cliffs against the ocean on one side and redwood forests on the other.

15. Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia

Just outside of Washington, D.C., is Arlington National Cemetery , which spans 624 acres and houses the graves of 400,000 active duty service members, veterans, and their families. The graves of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis are frequently visited, as is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a monument dedicated to deceased U.S. service members whose remains haven’t been identified. The moving Changing of the Guard can be witnessed every 30 or 60 minutes while the cemetery is open, depending on the time of year.

16. Nashville, Tennessee

Even those who don’t love country music will likely be enamored with Nashville, Tennessee. Excellent restaurants and hip bars make for a thriving nightlife scene, and the live music — much of which is country — on Broadway is not to be missed. Top attractions include Centennial Park for its full-size replica of Greece’s Parthenon, the Grand Ole Opry concert hall, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum .

17. Freedom Trail, Boston

Boston played a large part in America’s independence, and the city’s Freedom Trail passes through 16 historically significant locations. The two-and-a-half-mile trail takes visitors to Boston Common (America’s oldest public park), the site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Revere’s House , and the USS Constitution (the oldest commissioned ship that acts as a museum today).

18. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Located in southern California, east of Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a dreamy destination known for its distinctive-looking namesake trees, big boulders that are ideal for rock climbing, and stellar stargazing opportunities . Visitors can drive through, hike around, camp, or ride horseback through the desert landscape.

19. Road to Hana, Maui

The top attraction in Maui on TripAdvisor, the Road to Hana (Hana Highway) is a 64.4-mile drive that connects Kahului, where the airport is located, to the town of Hana on Maui’s more rugged east coast. The drive is not for the faint of heart, as it has over 600 switchbacks and 56 one-lane bridges, but the speed limit never surpasses 25 miles per hour. Travelers who hit the road are rewarded with spectacular lush greenery, stunning black-sand beaches, multiple waterfalls, and spots to buy banana bread.

20. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, Colorado

Located about a 30-minute drive outside of Denver, the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is an open-air concert and entertainment venue. The entire theater, including the seating, was built into the red rocks, which make for a phenomenal acoustic experience. Tourists can run up and down the steps in the morning and see big-name acts at night. Past performers include The Beatles, U2, Coldplay, and John Denver.

Related: Maui vs. Kauai: Which Hawaiian Island Is Better for You?

21. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is where the Colorado River takes a horseshoe-shaped bend in Glen Canyon. Visitors to Horseshoe Bend have skyrocketed since it gained recognition through Instagram. It’s easily accessible, as travelers can hike a one-and-a-half-mile round-trip trail from a parking lot off the highway.

22. Austin, Texas

The capital of Texas, Austin, is a hip, youthful city where low-frills barbecue joints and big-name tech corporations coexist. From stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Austin to topless sunbathing at Barton Springs Pool , there are a lot of ways to beat the daytime heat. Nights can be spent at upscale restaurants, Sixth Street bars with live music, or watching bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Buy a University of Texas T-shirt and some cowboy boots while you’re there.

23. Space Needle, Seattle

An iconic landmark in Seattle, the Space Needle is an observation tower that was built for the 1962 World’s Fair. With its antenna, it rises 604 feet, allowing for panoramic views of Seattle and the surrounding water. A 100-million-dollar renovation included the creation of the Loupe, the world’s first and only rotating glass floor. A cafe and wine bar entice visitors to linger.

24. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota

Located in South Dakota, this famous landmark depicts four American presidents carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore . Constructed between 1927 and 1941, the sculpture features the 60-foot heads of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

25. Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico

Every year since 1972, Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta, in which the sky is filled with colorful hot air balloons. For nine days in October, families and friends gather to watch the largest balloon festival in the world.

26. Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Another top attraction (and the most-photographed) within Yellowstone National Park is the Grand Prismatic Spring, which is the largest hot spring in the United States, measuring 370 feet in diameter. It’s best viewed from above, as the spring has vibrant bands of rainbow colors.

27. Griffith Observatory, California

Situated on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, Griffith Observatory is a popular observatory with free admission. It has stellar views of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles, and visitors can use telescopes, the planetarium, various events, and a cafe.

28. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Completed in 1932, Going-to-the-Sun Road is a two-lane highway that allows visitors to traverse the 50-mile width of Glacier National Park . Various scenic lookouts and noteworthy hikes can be found off the road, and it crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass. Due to weather conditions, it generally doesn’t open until late June or early July.

29. Las Vegas, Nevada

Whether for a bachelorette party, Celine Dion concert, or business conference, there’s a good chance you’ve at least thought about going to Las Vegas. Sin City is renowned for its world-class casinos, nightlife, and celebrity-chef-helmed restaurants, not to mention rowdy pool parties with famous DJs. It’s not all debauchery, though, and many kid-friendly activities dot the city.

30. Acadia National Park, Maine

Maine‘s beauty is undeniable, and that’s perhaps best displayed at Acadia National Park . Located near Bar Harbor, the 47,000-acre park sits along the coast and offers ample wildlife, such as moose and peregrine falcons, beaches, lush forests, and granite ridges formed by glaciers. While summer is a popular time to visit, the fall foliage makes for great autumn hiking.

Related: Top 9 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

31. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Located a four-hour drive south of Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon is a national park best known for having the largest concentration of hoodoos (irregular rock columns) in the world. The park was designated an International Dark Sky Park in 2019 due to the great nighttime visibility and many astronomy-related programs on offer.

32. Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia

Often considered a symbol of America’s independence, the iconic Liberty Bell in Philadelphia was ordered by Pennsylvania Assembly in 1751. It was previously housed in Independence Hall, the building where both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were adopted. It has since been moved to the Liberty Bell Center within the Independence National Historical Park .

33. Charleston, South Carolina

The 1670-founded Charleston is South Carolina’s oldest city, Today, it offers a lovely mix of old-fashioned Southern charm and contemporary style. Cobblestone streets filled with horse-drawn carriages and striking mansions can be found in its well-preserved Historic District, while notable wartime places, like Fort Sumter and Patriots Point , sit nearby. Cute boutique shops and traditional Southern comfort food appeal to visitors, as does Folly Beach , located a 25-minute drive south of the city.

34. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot springs may conjure images of Iceland or Costa Rica, but the aptly named city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, offers U.S. travelers ample opportunities to soak in naturally heated springs. The town is located in the Ouachita Mountains, about one hour from Little Rock. Bathhouse Row has several bathhouse options, including places for coed or gender-segregated experiences. A few dispensers around the city let people obtain cold spring water straight from the mountain.

35. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Roughly equidistant from Portland and San Francisco, the Redwood National and State Parks encompass 139,000 acres and three state parks. Visitors here will find stunning redwood trees, which are some of the largest, tallest, and oldest trees in the world. On average, redwoods live between 500 and 700 years, and a typical redwood here measures 300 feet tall and 16 to 20 feet in diameter.

36. Oahu, Hawaii

The most popular of the Hawaiian islands, Oahu provides picture-perfect beaches, hiking opportunities, and the conveniences of a city — think budget-friendly hotels, chain restaurants, and an international eatery. Top attractions include Waikiki Beach in Honolulu , Diamond Head — a dormant volcano crater that can be hiked — and North Shore, a beach with huge waves that make it a frequent host of international surfing competitions in the winter. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is also worth a visit.

The 49th state of Alaska is stunning, with greenery-filled forests, tons of wildlife (think bears, humpback whales, and moose), and massive glaciers. However, it’s not the easiest place to explore, as even the capital of Juneau has no roads leading out of the city. Arguably the best way to see Alaska is on a cruise , stopping at ports like Ketchikan , which has a strong native culture and renowned salmon fishing.

38. Sonoma, California

While we love Napa Valley in California, Sonoma provides a slightly less touristy wine-country experience. Sonoma is set among beautiful rolling hills, and many of the over 400 wineries within Sonoma County have a laid-back atmosphere that will put visitors at ease. Like Napa, Sonoma has tons of top-notch restaurants, relaxing spas, bike rentals, and charming bed-and-breakfasts to choose from.

39. Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

A four-hour drive south of Portland, Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is 183,224 acres and home to America’s deepest lake. Crater Lake, a caldera formed by the eruption of Mount Mazama volcano, is 1,943 feet deep at its deepest point and has a striking deep blue hue. Swimming and fishing are permitted, plus park-goers can hike, bike, ski, and stargaze.

40. Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

Located 90 minutes north of Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo is a UNESCO World Heritage site. An active Native American community resides on Taos Pueblo lands, both within the Pueblo and in surrounding areas. The present buildings, which are made of adobe, are believed to have been constructed between 1000 and 1450 A.D. Guided tours are available of the site.

Related: Best Destinations for Adult-Only Vacations

41. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Another Instagram darling, Antelope Canyon , is a magnificent, awe-inspiring slot canyon near Horseshoe Bend in Arizona, formed by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone. It’s located on Navajo tribal lands, and the Upper and Lower Antelope Canyons can only be accessed with a guide licensed by the tribe.

42. Minnesota Lakes

Minnesota is considered the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” though it actually has nearly 12,000, and many are fantastic spots for a summer vacation. Whether you choose to dip your toes in the chilly Lake Superior — one of the Great Lakes — or go full-on swimming in Mille Lacs Lake (which is large but shallow), there’s a lake in Minnesota for you.

43. Arches National Park, Utah

Just outside of Moab is Arches National Park , famous for its more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches — the largest concentration of them on Earth. The most photographed is the 52-foot-tall, freestanding Delicate Arch, plus the park has many other striking geological formations.

44. Kentucky Derby

Since 1865, the Kentucky Derby horse race has been taking place at Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky. Women wear elaborate hats, while gentlemen don seersucker suits in pastel hues. Visitors come to watch the 20 three-year-old Thoroughbred horses race 1.25 miles — often with a mint julep in hand.

45. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located in Michigan’s Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a charming 1780-founded island with a population of just around 1,000 (though it sees many tourists during its peak season). A majority of the island is a state park, which has forests, wildlife, and hiking trails. The use of motor vehicles has been outlawed here since 1898, so expect to ride around on bikes or in horse-drawn carriages and buggies.

46. Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica sits due west of Los Angeles, and the town lures travelers with its postcard-worthy beach, pier with amusement park rides, and boulevard lined by shops and eateries. A 22-mile paved bike trail is a great way to see the city, plus the famous Muscle Beach , an outdoor gym dating back to the 1930s, is not to be missed.

47. Space Center, Houston

The Space Center in Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center and home of NASA Mission Control and astronaut training. It allows visitors to view more than 400 space artifacts, as well as traveling and permanent exhibits related to space travel.

48. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

About a 90-minute drive from Denver is Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park , which attracts millions of visitors each year with its 355 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives to more than 12,000 feet in elevation, and over 50 lakes and streams for fishing. Year-round activities abound, and travelers can either camp within the park or stay at a nearby hotel such as the Stanley Hotel (the inspiration for “The Shining”).

49. Fenway Park, Boston

Long considered America’s pastime, baseball is something every U.S. citizen and traveler should witness at least once. There are 30 Major League Baseball teams, and while Wrigley Field in Chicago, Yankee Stadium in New York, and Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles are all suitable spots, we love Fenway Park in Boston for its easy-to-reach location. Plus, the many die-hard Red Sox fans make for a fun experience.

50. Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Located in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island is a fascinating tourist attraction that was developed as a Civil War fortress, followed by a military prison and federal prison (until 1963). Ferries shuttle visitors to the island, where guided tours showcase the complex history of the site and its prison.

How many destinations can you check off the list? Find out down below:

• lol Badge Feed
• win Badge Feed
• trending Badge Feed

Browse links

• © 2024 BuzzFeed, Inc
• Consent Preferences
• Accessibility Statement

29 Surreal Places In America You Need To Visit Before You Die

If you live in the U.S., you don't need a passport to see what mother nature has to offer.

BuzzFeed Staff

1. Mendenhall Glacier Caves, Alaska

In Mendenhall Valley of Juneau stands this 12-mile glacier that is home to some incredibly surreal ice caves. If you follow the West Glacier trail, you can get a chance to see these whimsical ice clouds for yourself.

2. Antelope Canyon, Arizona

Located near Page, Ariz., this brilliant slot canyon is split into two different sections, commonly referred to as “The Crack” and “The Corkscrew.” The natural canvas of color and unique structure is an Instgrammer's dream.

3. Oneonta Gorge, Oregon

The Oneonta Gorge is in the Columbia River Gorge with a unique set of aquatic and woodland plants. The ferns and moss make the walls look like a fairy tale, and visitors can walk through the creek on a warm summer day.

4. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

Located in Washington state, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the tulip fields between April 1–30 to see these gorgeous flowers in bloom. The festival is designed as a driving tour since there is no one designated "site."

5. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Colorado

This wilderness area is located in the Elk Mountains of central Colorado and has over 100 miles of trails. The closest city in reach is Aspen and the entire area spans over 181,000 acres.

6. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

This isolated island of bliss sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, surrounded by clear waters and an abundance of sea life. The area is only accessible by boat or seaplane, so leave your phone at home and enjoy a day off the grid.

7. Zion National Park, Utah

Located near Springdale, Utah, this incredible 146,000-acre park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. A prominent feature is the Zion Canyon, which is 15 miles long and a half-mile deep. Other spots to visit while you're here is "The Subway"(pictured on the left) and "The Narrows" (pictured on the right).

8. Watkins Glen State Park, New York

We all know Niagara Falls is a sight to see, but located south of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes region lies a lesser-known fantasy-like area called Rainbow Bridge and Falls. It will make you feel like you're in Lord of the Rings .

9. Yosemite Valley, California

This 8-mile glacial valley is covered in pine and surrounded by granite summits like Half Dome and El Capitan. The California beauty is a hot spot for tourists and photographers and it also offers scenic trails for hikers.

10. Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming

This natural pool of rainbow-like colors is the largest hot spring in the U.S. and the third largest in the world. It's located in Yellowstone National Park, which also has other great sights to see such as Morning Glory Pool , Old Faithful , and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone .

11. Haiku Stairs of Oahu, Hawaii

This "Stairway to Heaven" is a steep hiking trail that is technically closed to the public, but many people continue to climb despite the “No Trespassing” signs. Sometimes breaking the law is worth it, right?

12. Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

In this National Park beneath the rocky land lies more than 119 known caves, formed from limestone and sulfuric acid. Visitors can take the natural entrance (pictured on the right) or ride down the elevator 750 feet below ground.

13. Whitaker Point, Arkansas

In the heart of the Buffalo River country lies this incredible crag, a popular spot for proposals, scenic photographs, and pretty killer views. The best time to snap a pic is at 6:15 a.m. (as pictured above on the left).

14. Hamilton Pool, Texas

Located just outside of Austin, this natural pool is a popular spot for tourists and residents in the summer. Hamilton Pool was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago.

15. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Named after its horseshoe-like shape, this famous meander is located just outside Page, Ariz., and offers a wicked view of the Colorado River.

16. Northern Lights, Alaska

The Northern Lights is one of the most beautiful wonders of the world, and a trip to Alaska will give you a front-row seat. The best places to see the lights are in Fairbanks and Anchorage from about September–April 20.

17. Bryce Canyon, Utah

This collection of large natural amphitheaters is famous for its hoodoos, geological structures formed by frost weather and stream erosion. The orange, red, and white rocks are a beautiful sight and only roughly 50 miles from Zion National Park.

18. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Bordering California and Nevada, this freshwater lake is the largest alpine lake in North America. The clear waters and surrounding trees make it an ideal vacation spot.

19. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina/Tennessee

A subrange of the Appalachian Mountains, the Smokies are a mountain range along the North Carolina–Tennessee border. It's the most visited national park in the U.S., with 9 million-plus visitors per year.

20. Niagara Falls, New York

Located along the United States–Canada border is the famous Niagara Falls, a popular spot for tourists.

21. The Wave, Arizona

Located in Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness near the Arizona-Utah border lies The Wave, a sandstone rock formation that looks look a painting. The sight is known for its vibrant colors and the trackless hike to reach it.

22. Sequoia National Park, California

Sequoia National Park is known for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, one of the largest in the world. It stands at 275 feet tall and is believed to be roughly 2,500 years old.

23. Thor's Well, Oregon

Along Cape Perpetua lies Thor's Well, a saltwater fountain driven by the power of the ocean tide. The best time to see it in action is an hour before high tide to an hour after high tide. While it's a beautiful sight, it's also highly dangerous and visitors should proceed with caution.

24. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

The red and orange rocky mountains bring in nearly 1 million visitors per year to the Badlands National Park. Native Americans used this area for hunting grounds for roughly 11,000 years.

25. Savannah, Georgia

The oldest city in the state of Georgia, Savannah has a charming personality and fairy tale-like array of Spanish moss trees.

26. Palouse Falls, Washington

Located in Washington state, this enchanting scene almost came to an end in 1984 when the Franklin County Public Utility District proposed to build a dam to allow hydroelectric power generation. Ratepayers decided to preserve the falls.

27. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is located near Kalispell, Mont., and borders parts of Canada. The park encompasses more than 1,000,000 acres and attracts roughly 2 million people per year.

28. Nā Pali Coast State Park, Hawaii

The Na Pali Coast is inaccessible by car but can be seen over land by helicopter or hiking. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access, but there are also caves you can explore along the coast.

29. Devils Tower, Wyoming

Devils Tower is a giant igneous intrusion that rises 5,000-plus feet above sea level. According to Native American folklore, a few girls went out to play and were discovered by several bears who began to chase them. The girls tried to escape by climbing a rock and praying to the Great Spirit to save them, and their prayers were answered when the rock rose from the ground toward the heavens and away from danger. When the girls reached the sky, they were turned into the star constellations. There are also several other theories and stories regarding the Devils Tower.

Don't forget to check out Bring Me for all of BuzzFeed's best travel tips and hacks, vacation inspiration, and more !

Share This Article

15 Best Places To Visit In USA For First Time Visit Before You Die

Are you traveling to the USA for the first time? I know it’s a crucial step to decide the right destination in your USA journey that fits your bill.

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a frequent Traveller you know that right America is a  vast country that has endless opportunities to explore.

From the beautiful landscape to the diverse Culture, and world-class cities, there are so many things to explore in the USA. 

With plenty of top attractions to visit, it can be overwhelming to decide which are the best places to visit in the USA. 

So don’t worry, In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the 15 best places to visit in USA for first time , ensuring an unforgettable adventure.

Read More: Who is a Travel Enthusiast

Table of Contents

15 Best Places To Visit In USA for First Time

New york city: the big apple’s allure.

kicking off the best place to visit in the US for the first time is the iconic New York City often referred to as the Big Apple.

New York is a popular tourist destination located at the southern tip of New York State. The city that never sleeps has a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. It is also home to a major financial, commercial, and cultural center.

Now you can start your trip by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the top of the rock observation deck.

Read More: Best Place to Visit in Montgomery AL

Grand Canyon National Park: Nature’s Majestic Masterpiece

For those who are seeking adventurous places to visit in the USA, Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona can be an awe-inspiring choice for them.

It is counted as one of the natural seven wonders of the world. and considered the best places to visit in the USA for couples .

Grand Canyon National Park Created over millions of years along the mighty Colorado River, the Grand Canyon’s immense beauty is unmatched. Standing on the shore, one can see layers of rock that tell a geological story of time.

There is so much to explore here from the Devil’s Bridge , African Wildlife Park , Red Rock State Park , Blazin M Ranch , etc. with a couple of adventurous activities like hiking trails , trekking, camping, and helicopter tours, making it an imperative destination for nature enthusiasts. I am sure, you will fall in love with Grand Canyon National Park.

San Francisco: Golden Gate Delights

If you are visiting the United States for the first time, San Francisco should top your list of the best places to visit in the United States for the first time with family.

San Francisco is a charming city that has so many things to do, from iconic landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, to Alcatraz Island and the Fisherman’s Wharf, you get several places to document your travel journey.

The city is in Northern California, nested on a peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay.

On the West Coast, San Francisco beckons with its unique charm and iconic landmarks. The Golden Gate Bridge, which is an architectural marvel of San Francisco, provides a breathtaking view of the city.

Apart from this, you can create memories while taking photos with your family at Golden Gate Park. If you are a seafood lover, head to Fisherman’s Wharf for some fresh food, San Francisco is popular for fresh seafood.

Also, you can experience the culture of San Francisco by visiting world-class museums like the  San Francisco Museum of Modern Art  and the  de Young Museum .

Read More: Best Place to stay in Gatlinburg

Yellowstone National Park: Nature’s Symphony in Wyoming

Another top place, which should be on your bucket list, is home to several natural wonders including hot springs, waterfalls , geysers , canyons, and abundant wildlife .

Yellowstone National Park features more than 10,000 hydrothermal including over 500 active geysers. among them, Old Faithful is the most famous geyser that attracts lots of visitors throughout the year.

This natural park offers plenty of activities such as hiking trailing, and kayaking. you can go kayaking in one of its scenic lakes.

You can capture the essence of untouched beauty and see the geothermal wonders that make Yellowstone a natural wonder.

Miami, Florida: Sun, Sand, and Glamour

For those seeking sun-soaked stunning beaches, and mesmerizing nightlife, Miami is the destination to visit for you.

The cultural diversity, pulsating energy, and stunning beaches make it one of the best places to visit in the USA for the first time.

Explore the popular attractions in Miami including the Dolphin Mall, Zoo Miami, and the Miami Seaquarium. Miami’s cuisine is also a significant attraction, with Cuban-inspired food and markets.

Take a stroll along the iconic South Beach for an immersive experience and immerse yourself in the city’s historic architecture during an Art Deco tour.

Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital

Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, never fails to surprise visitors. If you are ready for a dose of fun, excitement, and nightlife, Las Vegas is the best destination to visit for visitors.

Renowned for world-class entertainment, extravagant resorts, luxurious hotels, casinos, and dazzling nightlife, Las Vegas offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors.

The variety of themed hotels on the Las Vegas Strip is amazing with each hotel including its own casinos, entertainment, and attractions.

Beyond the glitz of the casinos, the city has many attractions like the Shark Reef Aquarium, the High Roller Observation Wheel, and the famous Bellagio Fountain.

Natural marvels like Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam, which are close by, offer an enjoyable getaway to the vibrant energy of the metropolis.

New Orleans: The Soulful South

New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz music, is a vibrant and colorful place to visit. The city has an amazing music culture, feel the music in every corner of the city.

You can walk around the French Quarter, which is like stepping into a really old and cool neighborhood with colorful buildings.

There’s this street called Bourbon Street where the party never seems to stop, and there are lots of tasty foods to try, like gumbo and beignets. New Orleans loves to celebrate with big festivals, and Mardi Gras is the most famous one where everyone wears colorful costumes and has a huge parade.

The city has a lot of history, like Jackson Square, which is like a super old town square with beautiful gardens. So, if you want to have a good time, eat delicious food, and enjoy amazing music, New Orleans is the right place.

Yosemite National Park: California’s Natural Gem

Yosemite National Park is a super cool place to visit because it’s like stepping into a giant nature playground! Imagine huge mountains, waterfalls, and giant trees that are way taller than buildings.

There are animals like bears and deer living in the park too. You can explore cool trails and see amazing views of nature.

Yosemite has this famous rock called El Capitan that’s like a giant wall, and people even climb it! There’s a waterfall called Yosemite Falls that makes a really big splash, and it’s so pretty.

Chicago: The Windy City’s Allure

Chicago, also called “ The Windy City ” is known for its world-class museums, marvelous architecture, and deep-rooted history, music, food, and nightlife.

It is the third-largest city in the United States, where you can see really tall buildings, like the Willis Tower, and even stand on a glass floor to see way down below. There’s a big, shiny bean called “Cloud Gate” in Millennium Park that’s super fun to take pictures with.

Visit the Shedd Aquarium or view penguins at the Lincoln Park Zoo if you’re an animal lover. Another fun place with rides, shopping, and amazing views of Lake Michigan is the Navy Pier.

Chicago has a plethora of fun things to do and things to see, making it a perfect spot for a memorable road trip.

Walt Disney World, Orlando: A Magical Oasis in Orlando

If you are looking for the Best places to visit in the USA for the first time with family , Orlando will be the magical destination for you. Orlando is home to the most famous Universal Studios , Walt Disney World, and SeaWorld .

Amazing theme parks and the most famous Disney characters make this city a dream come true place for Disney enthusiasts.

Other than that, if you are looking for a relaxing place to spend time with families, head to the numerous beaches such as Cocoa Beach, New Smyrna Beach, or Clearwater Beach.

you can also explore the Kennedy Space Center, which is the place to learn about space exploration.

Washington, D.C.

Immerse yourself in the cultural and political heart of the United States by visiting Washington D.C. You can take a look at the city’s iconic landmarks such as the White House, the National Mall, and the Smithsonian Museums.

Explore the rich history of the United States while roaming the streets of the city. Washington D.C, the capital of the United States beckons visitors with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene.

Other than this, it is also home to some iconic monuments such as the World War II Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial, Where artifacts and exhibitions showcase the journey of the country from its foundation till today.

Zion National Park

If you are fond of trekking and trailing then Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for you. The park is known for its steep red cliffs and deep Zion Canyon.

Apart from this, the park has many other natural wonders, including the Great White Throne, the Court of the Patriarchs, the Watchman, and Angel’s Landing.

For the nature enthusiast, the best time to visit Zion Park is between April to November. At this time the weather is pleasant and relaxed to go.

Towering sandstone cliffs, narrow sloping valleys, and a network of scenic trails highlight the beauty of the Zion National Park. So Experience the thrill of hiking on the Angels Landing Trail and take in the breathtaking views at the summit.

Seattle is another Best destination for first-time USA visitors . located in the Pacific Northwest and is known for its vibrant arts and coffee culture and stunning waterfront.

Seattle is the center of caffeinated beverages and home to the headquarters of beverage king Starbucks. it is also home to some giants tech industry, with Microsoft and Amazon headquartered in its metropolitan area.

There are so many things to do in Seattle for nature enthusiasts as well as for tech buffs. Take a stroll through the beautiful Seattle waterfront then spend some time mingling with local people at Pike Place Market.

Explore the city’s most iconic landmark Space Needle, a legacy of the 1962 World’s Fair. Some other things to do in Seattle, are visit the Olympic Sculpture Park, the Museum of Pop Culture, Fremont Troll, Chihuly Garden and Glass, Ballard etc.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Waterfall is one of the top tourist spots in the world that attracts tourists from all over the world.

It is one of the largest waterfalls in the world which straddle the border between the United States and Canada.

Do you know, that Niagara Falls is not a single waterfall it is a group of three waterfalls Among these, Horseshoe Falls is the largest waterfall, which crosses the international border.

Niagara Falls is popularly known for the amount of water that flows over the waterfall, which makes it the top place to visit in the USA. Because most of the world’s tallest waterfalls have little water flowing over them. 

Some popular tourist attractions near Niagara Waterfalls are Niagara Falls , Journey Behind the Falls, Skylon Tower , Niagara Reservation, Cave of the Winds , etc.

Charleston, South Carolina

As you conclude your journey through the best places to visit in the USA for the first time , immerse yourself in the historic charm of Charleston, South Carolina.

Charleston is the largest and oldest city in the state. It is also known as the Holy City because there are many historical and religious places of worship. 

There are more than 400 Church steeples in the city where many different religions are practiced.

Charleston is home to many top tourist attractions. So explore the historic district, Fort Sumter , Magnolia Plantation and Gardens , Rainbow Row , College of Charleston , Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston Southern University, etc.

Final Words for Places To Visit In USA for the First Time

Our guide to the 15 best places to visit in USA for first-time visitors includes some of the top destinations that will make your trip unforgettable. From the bustling streets of New York City to the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Each destination on the list has a unique blend of history and culture. So, pack your bags, to go on the mesmerizing journey of the United States.

FAQ’s

Where should i go for my first time in usa.

Chicago, Las Vegas, and New York these three are popular tourist destinations to visit for first-time travelers. for good reason, these cities are known for top attractions, lively colorful nightlife, and iconic landmarks. without any doubt, you can start your journey from these cities.

What is the best state to go on vacation in the US?

California, Texas, and New York are the best states to go on vacation in the USA. apart from this, you can choose Alabama, Arizona, Ohio, and Hawaii. these are also worth states to visit.

What is the number one place to visit in the United States?

Orlando should be the top place to visit in the United States as there are world-famous theme parks like Disney World, Universal Studio, and SeaWorld to visit. and attracts millions of visitors throughout the year.

Share this:

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

101 Places to Visit in USA – Your Ultimate USA Bucket List

• In the City / Outdoors / USA

How many of these places have you visited in the US?

I can’t believe this is our 6th year of moving to a new city every year. We can officially say we’ve lived in all four corners of the US. Now, it’s time to explore more of the heartland. Who’s coming with us?

There’s so much beauty right here in our greater backyard that we used to neglect. The grass seems greener on the other side, and we’re often filled with wanderlust for faraway places. But if we just stop to look, it’s incredible how many different types of landscapes and cultures fill this country. 

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: October 30, 2023

− − Content Menu

• Alaska – Arizona
• Colorado – Florida
• Georgia – Louisiana
• Maine – Nevada
• New Jersey – Oregon
• Pennsylvania – Texas
• Utah – Virginia
• Washington – Wyoming
• 101 Places to Visit in the USA Map
• Most Beautiful Hotels in the US

Planning Checklist

101 places to visit in usa – the ultimate usa bucket list.

We’ve stepped foot in 47 states and covered a lot of ground over the years. Even after living in 7 different cities plus doing a handful of cross country road trips, we feel like we barely made a dent (I also can’t help that our list continues to grow longer and longer). Today, we put together a list of many of our favorite destinations in the US to give you a good start.

Of course, there are many more than 101 places worth visiting in the US. If you need even more suggestions, click the links below to see full guides on each destination. Want to explore the US by month? Use the links below.

USA IN  Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec

Denali National Park →

Denali is one of the more accessible national parks in Alaska. Our favorite thing to do here was the  flightseeing tour .

Katmai National Park

A great time to see the Katmai bears is during the salmon runs from mid-July to mid-September. If you visit mid-May to mid-July, you can see mom bears and their cubs.

Kenai Fjords National Park

Head to Seward, Alaska to visit Kenai Fjords National park. A boat cruise is the best way to see the park and don’t miss the short hike to Exit Glacier.

Antelope Canyon →

These vibrant and beautiful slot canyons are crowded. If you want to find a less crowded option, head to Waterholes Canyon.

Havasupai Indian Reservation →

Hike down into the canyon to greeted by waterfalls plunging into turquoise waters. Permits are hard to get, so here are  our tips .

Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area →

A short hike (1.3 mi round trip) takes you to a viewpoint where you can see the horseshoe shaped bend in the Colorado River. We also took a boat ride through, which offered a unique perspective.

Grand Canyon National Park →

The easiest way to get here is via  helicopter from Vegas . Although, the views are more impressive from the top looking down.

Don’t miss the  Devil’s Bridge hike  and  Slide Rock State Park .

Saguaro National Park →

The park is split into Saguaro East and West near Tucson AZ. West photographed better, while East was less crowded and felt more like you were in nature.

They only allow 20 people in per day. These permits shave been the hardest to get. See our  top Wave permit tips here .

White Pocket →

If you can’t get into the Wave, this is the best alternative. Photographers love White Pocket because it hasn’t been photographed a million times like the Wave

Disneyland →

If you’re a socal resident and you love Disneyland, the annual pass is the way to go.

One of my favorite places in the world. Popular stops are McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

Channel Islands National Park →

Explore the islands through kayaking or diving for a really unique experience.

Death Valley National Park →

This park is massive and has diverse landscapes. Summers are brutally hot, so this park is  best in the winter .

Joshua Tree National Park →

Jtree doesn’t have the prettiest hikes, but it’s a climber’s paradise. It also photographs beautifully at sunset and stargazing and astrophotography are amazing.

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful crystal clear lake. Skiing is great in the winter, and hiking in the summer. The Nevada side is less popular but just as beautiful.

See More: The Ultimate California Coast Road Trip

Los Angeles →

Traffic is almost impossible to avoid. Load up on music and audiobooks while you wait. Check out our LA bucket list, free things to do, instagram spots, and food guide. If you like Korean food, LA has the best we’ve found outside of Korea.

Napa Valley →

Napa is the most popular wine country in the US. If you love food and can get a reservation at  the French Laundry , we absolutely recommend it.

Redwood national Park →

See these California coast giants. They can grow up to 300 ft tall.

San Diego →

Can we all retire and become beach bums? Life is too easy in sunny San Diego. It’s one of our favorite cities we’ve lived in the US. Check out our  free things to do ,  instagram spots , and  SD bucket list .

San Francisco →

It’s known for the famous Golden Gate bridge, year round fog (named  Karl ), and colorful mismatched Victorian houses. The culture of SF has changed over the years, but it’s still one of my favorite cities with easy access to the outdoors too.

Sequoia + Kings Canyon National Park →

Walk among the largest trees in the world (by volume).

Although popularity is increasing, if you want a less touristy wine country experience than Napa, go to  Sonoma . IYKYK

Yosemite National Park →

Our favorite national park. It’s become extremely popular and crowded especially in the Valley. The park is massive, so explore outside the valley to avoid the crowds or visit in late fall to winter. Keep in mind, most waterfalls dry up in the winter.

See More: Best Places to See California Wildflowers

Black Canyon of the Gunnison →

12 miles of the deepest and most dramatic part of the Black Canyon.

Watching a concert at Red Rocks is a unique experience. Or head there for your morning workout. You’ll have plenty of workout buddies.

Garden of the Gods

300 ft sandstone rock formations that can easily be seen through a scenic drive. There’s supposed to be some cool climbing here too.

Great Sand Dunes National Park →

Hike up Star Dune, the highest sand dune in North America. Also try sandboarding!

Maroon Bells

They’re the most photographed peaks in Aspen.

Mesa Verde national Park →

Do one of the  cliffside dwelling tours  where you can walk through and get a closer look. a UNESCO world heritage site.

Rocky Mountain National Park

The Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road are popular drives that take you through aspens, winding rivers, and mountain scenery.

Vail is well known as a skiing destination but also beautiful for  outdoor activities in the summer .

Everglades National Park

It’s the largest tropical wilderness in the US and also a UNESCO world heritage site. 

Florida Keys →

Take the Overseas Highway for a scenic drive.

Miami and Miami Beach

This was our go-to college spring break spot with their endless clubs. Now we visit for Art deco buildings, white sand beaches, and Cuban food.

Best known for for Disney World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal. Our favorite park is Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

No matter what city we live in, we’ll always be ATLiens at heart. The city is full of southern charm but with the conveniences of a big city. See our  ATL bucket list ,  best instagram spots ,  free things to do , and  food guide .

Step into the quintessential South with Antebellum architecture, cobblestone squares, and massive oak trees covered in Spanish moss.

See More: 15 Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta GA

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

They have two active volcanoes.

Na Pali Coast, Kauai

Picture entering into Jurassic Park, because that’s where they filmed it.

Road to Hana, Maui →

Take the Road to Hana and  check out these stops .

Oahu Lantern Floating Ceremony (Memorial Day)

Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor Memorial, Hanauma Bay are the touristy spots. If you’re there on Memorial Day you can see the Lantern Floating Ceremony.

Iowa State Fair

More than a million people from all over the world gather here annually. I grew up in Iowa and only vaguely remember going as a child, but on our cross country road trip last year, I got to see the Butter Cow in all its glory. All 600 pounds of Iowa butter. It’s weird, but nothing quite like it.

Wrigley Field, Millenium Park, Skydeck are the popular spots.

See More: 15 Spectacular Day Trips from Chicago

Kansas City →

(Also in Missouri) Don’t miss Kansas City BBQ at Joe’s – our favorite!

Grab your big hats and head to the Kentucky Derby. Plus, it’s part of the  Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

New Orleans →

Known for the French Quarter and Mardis Gras. Don’t forget to try some crawfish and Cajun cuisine.

Acadia National Park →

Beautiful in the fall. Great for unique rock climbing on the coast.

Portland ME →

Did you know that Portland Oregon got its name from Portland Maine? Visit the lighthouses and eat ALL the lobster rolls.

Explore the upscale crab shacks and learn about its important role in US history. It’s known as the city of neighborhoods.

Massachusetts

Walk the Freedom Trail, watch a game at Fenway Park, and eat lots of seafood.

Great summertime destination with cute villages, seafood shacks, and lighthouses.

Martha’s Vineyard

Popular in the summer and only accessible by plane or boat.

Salem is famous for the witch trials. You can learn more about the history at the Salem Witch Museum.

Minneapolis-St Paul

Check out the Minneapolis sculpture garden, Walker Art Center, and Minnehaha Park. Mall of America was the biggest mall in the US when we were kids, but now it’s the 5th largest.

Glacier National Park →

Going to the Sun road is a nice scenic drive. Hike a trail for even more amazing views of alpine lakes and mountains.

See More: What You Need to Know Before You Visit Glacier National Park

Great Basin National Park →

Go during the astronomy festival for amazing stargazing and astrophotography (late Sept).

Las Vegas →

There’s so much more to the city than the strip. It’s also great home base to explore the outdoors. Check out our  ultimate Vegas bucket list ,  free things to do , and  food guide .

Valley of Fire State Park →

This Mars-like landscape is only an hour away from Vegas..

See More: 101 Things to Do in Nevada

Atlantic City

AC is the most popular gambling destination on the East Coast and also known for their beaches and iconic boardwalk.

Alburquerque

The  Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta  is the world’s largest balloon festival.

Love the Pueblo style architecture prominent through the city.

This high desert town is known for historic Adobe buildings and artist colonies.

White Sands National Park →

Go early in the morning so you don’t see a bunch of footprints.

See More: ABQ Balloon Festival – What You Need to Know Before You Go

Niagara Falls

Don’t forget your passport in case you want to check out the view from the Canada side as well.

New York City / NYC →

You can never be bored in NYC. Have you stepped in all 5 boroughs? I still need to take the Staten Island ferry to the forgotten borough. See our  NYC bucket list ,  places to eat ,  instagrammable places , and  New Yorker tips for visitors .

See More: 21 Absolutely Stunning Places to Visit Upstate NY

North Carolina

Asheville →.

People refer to Asheville as the Portland of the east coast. There’s hiking, craft beer, and a great food scene.

See More: 15 Best Hikes Near Asheville NC

Crater Lake →

Crater Lake sits inside a collapsed volcano. Bring your wide angle lens to get it in one frame.

Oregon Coast →

Cannon Beach or Astoria is a popular starting point.

Pack a raincoat and hiking boots unless you’re visiting in July-Aug. Our favorite part of Portland was the  easy access to the outdoors .

See More: Your Ultimate Oregon Bucket List

Pennsylvania

Philadelphia →.

Visit Independence Hall and compare your Philly cheesesteaks.

Pittsburgh is the city of bridges. They have 446 bridges, which is more than any other city in the world.

South Carolina

Charleston →.

They have great rooftop bars and Rainbow Row is a must for instagrammers. Also see  our Charleston bucket list  and  food guide .

South Dakota

Badlands national park →.

Take sunrise photos at the Door trailhead or Window trailhead and sunset photos to Pinnacles Overlook. 

Mount Rushmore

Trivia – Who are the four presidents carved on Mt Rushmore? Highlight Below for Answers -> 

George Washington, Abraham, Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Jefferson.

Great Smoky Mountains

(also in NC) Take in the view from Clingmans Dome, the highest mountain in the Smokies.

The city that has made a big impact on Blues, Soul, and Rock and Roll.

Nashville →

Be sure to try hot chicken and check out the Parthenon Replica and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

More on our  Austin bucket list ,  free things to do , and  food spots .

Marble Falls

Between March and April, Bluebonnets carpet Texas Hill Country. Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls is one of many popular spots.

Arches National Park →

Devil’s Garden trail  was our favorite hike in the park.

Bryce Canyon National park →

Time it so you can do a full moon hike.

Canyonlands National park

Drive through the real life landscape of Pixar’s Cars.

Goblin Valley State Park

Mars like landscape filled with hoodoos. Locals call them goblins.

Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Lots of backcountry trails, and not as busy as other  Utah parks .

Monument Valley

That iconic shot from Forest Gump.

Park City →

Great for skiing and snowboarding.

Zion National Park →

Angel’s Landing  and  the Narrows  are two of our favorite hikes.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Utah State

Great place to base yourself to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains

Mount Rainier National Park

Rainier is the highest mountain of the Cascade Range and highest mountain in Washington. If you’re an alpinist, this is one of the mountains to conquer. The park is especially beautiful with wildflowers in late July and early August.

North Cascades National park →

This is a great hiking destination. It’s not as easy to access via car except for Ross Lake plus they have a short season.

Olympic National park →

Did you know there’s a rainforest in the US. Olympic NP has the only one in the continental US.

Orcas Island

Largest of the San Juan Islands. The name actually originated from Horcasitas, but from May to October during the salmon run, you can see orca whales too.

See our  ultimate Seattle bucket list  and  guide to the best museums .

Washington DC

Washington dc →.

See our  DC Bucket List  and  49 best places to eat . Even though it’s ridiculously crowded, cherry blossom season is beautiful.

Apostle Islands

If Lake Superior freezes in winter, you can walk to these islands with frozen waterfalls and chambers. They also have one of the greatest concentrations of black bears. 

All the Great Lakes

There are 5 Great Lakes, and we want to swim in them all. Can you name all 5?

Cody is known as the rodeo capital of the world.

Grand Teton National Park →

You can check out Tetons and Yellowstone in one trip. Tetons is much less busy.

Yellowstone National Park →

We’re not the biggest fans of Yellowstone because it tends to attract visitors that don’t respect the park, but we can’t deny that the colorful hot springs and features are beautiful. Plus, it’s great for spotting wildlife.

See More: 11 Incredible Things to Do in Jackson Hole Wyoming

101 Places to Visit in USA Map

10 Beautiful Hotels to Put On Your USA Bucket List

• Amangiri Resort, Canyon Point, UT  
• Fairmont Grand Del Mar, San Diego, CA  – Travelers Choice 2019 
• Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, Santa Fe, NM
• The Inn Above Tide, Sausalito, CA
• Ocean House, Watch Hill, RI
• The Plaza, NYC
• The Setai, Miami Beach, FL
• Triple Creek Ranch Darby, MT
• Waldorf Astoria Chicago, IL
• Wentworth Mansion, Charleston, SC   – Travelers Choice 2019 
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

How many of these places have you been to? How many are on your USA bucket list?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

SEE More CITY Bucket Lists

ATLANTA BUCKET LIST

PDX BUCKET LIST  

CHARLESTON SC BUCKET LIST

LAS VEGAS BUCKET LIST

LA BUCKET LIST

NYC BUCKET LIST

SAN DIEGO BUCKET LIST

ASHEVILLE NC BUCKET LIST

AUSTIN BUCKET LIST

NEW ORLEANS BUCKET LIST

ORLANDO BUCKET LIST

SAN FRANCISCO BUCKET LIST

SEATTLE BUCKET LIST

WASHINGTON DC BUCKET LIST

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

This Post Has 5 Comments

Love this post! Love how you have organized them by the state – we have seen a lot of America but it always amazes me how much there is to see and experience.

Thanks for the list which of course is just a tiny fraction of the places and only includes selected states along with some questionable cities that are part of someones bucket list. I think if someone were to take a grand tour of this great country the list would be more like 1001 places! Everyone’s goal regarding a “bucket list” varies depending on that persons aspirations as to what they like to do, see, eat, and explore, which makes it difficult to define a true bucket list. Although I don’t live in Michigan, which was one of the states not represented in this list has many offerings including recreation such as camping, snowmobiling, boating, fishing, and has wonderful places to visit such as Sleeping Bear Dunes, Mackinaw Island along with the suspension bridge, and for those car lovers many automobile museums. Keep on making those bucket lists so those that want to explore based on there desires can truly see this magnificent country.

Thanks, Buddy! There really is sooo much to see, and you’re completely right. We could easily find 1001 bucket list worthy places here. :)

semi retired and starting bucket list travels

You two are amazing and love your sense of pure adventure! We love adventure too – family style. We moved to Colorado Springs nearly 3 years ago and as time allows with four busy kids, we are slowly exploring every corner – southwest Colorado road trip coming up: Great Sand Dunes NP, Pagosa Springs, Durango, Mesa Verde NP, Telluride, Ouray, Black Canyon NP, and more! There is a lot to see in Colorado Springs too and we love it. Thanks for a great list!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The Great American Bucket List: 50 Things To Do In The U.S. Before You Die

The Great American Bucket List: 50 Things to Do in the U.S. Before You Die

Part of every trip to an unfamiliar destination is a visit to one or two tourist traps. While some of them must be avoided at all times and costs , others are worth the time , effort and money.

From visiting all 59 national parks , which are still referred to as "America's best idea," to going to football games, embarking on a safari and even attending a rodeo, the great American bucket list has a stunning variety of activities and tons of places to see.

With the help from various travel sites and published adventure stories on The Active Times, we have compiled The Great American Bucket List.

It's time to get out there and conquer the world. Grab your bucket list; you will definitely want to add these trips to it.

Road trip along Route 66

Traveling with a car along the legendary 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica is one of the  craziest adventures you can do in the country. The historic Route 66 has been featured in just about everything – TV, music, movies. Many places still keep the original two-lane highway. Stop by Pontiac and visit the Route 66 Association Hall of Fame & Museum. Along the way you'll also find stunning panoramas , charming towns , rocky cliffs, and beautiful  deserts and parks . If you really want to see what it's like to be "alone" on the road, go west from Kingman past the saguaro cacti and loose boulders. You'll get to Oatman, an old gold-mining town. Don't forget to visit the Meteor Crater in Arizona, which is 50,000 years old.

Hiking the John Muir Trail

This is classic hike. When it comes to Yosemite, John Muir definitely deserves founding father status. The Scottish-born world famous naturalist was the catalyst in the creation of the park, and his namesake trail runs 211 miles between Yosemite Valley and Mount Whitney (the highest point in the Lower 48). This is a land made up of 13,000-foot and 14,000-foot peaks,  lakes in the thousands, and  canyons and granite cliffs. The JMT is has the mildest, sunniest climate of any major mountain range in the world, according to the  Pacific Crest Trail Association .

Visit All 59 National Parks in One Year

Visiting all 59 national parks in the U.S. and its territories in 52 weeks in an airstream, is often referred to as the " greatest American road trip ." It sounds like an  impossible adventure  to many, but several people have already been on the road doing exactly that because of the centennial anniversary of the National Park Service. It's a combination of being  very happy to be in the parks  but also very tired.

Go on a Cruise around Alaska

Cruising Alaska, one of the most "outdoorsy" state in the U.S. , is more popular than ever before, but you can still find a great deal if you're flexible, especially in the summer . A 7-day cruise aboard the Grand Princess of Princess Cruises makes stops in Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau, among others. The reasons to visit the Last Frontier are endless – unique wildlife everywhere, migrating salmon, mighty mountains, and national parks .

Winter Surfing

Most people associate surfing  with warm water, sandy beaches and lots of sunshine. The sport can easily transition into the winter. In fact, many fans prefer the cold season because that's when they get the best waves  and favorable winds. Also, there are fewer people. Just make sure you have the right gear .

Ice Caving in Wisconsin

Bayfield Peninsula Sea Caves are some of the most jaw-dropping sights you can witness in the country. In the winter, they are morphed into ice caves. Take the entire family and explore their beauty. The incredible formations and the splendor of the crystal clea r ice will astonish you. Spectacular year-round ice caves you can visit are Big Four in Washington, only a short drive from Seattle , and Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska. They are constantly on the move, as the glacier inches towards Mendenhall Lake and changes shape along the way.

See Lava Flow in Hawaii

Did you know that The Big Island is getting bigger every year by about 42 acres because of lava flow from the Kīlauea Volcano? It can even be  seen from space . The phenomenon is known as lava delta – when  lava flows into the ocean  over a long period of time resulting in the formation of new land. There are two possible ways to see the lava: From a distance, e.g. in the crater of the Kilauea Volcano, and close by from boats as the lava flows down the island into the ocean, according to Love Big Island. 

Whitewater Rafting in Ocoee River, Tennessee

The Ocoee River in in the Cherokee National Forest is among the most popular whitewater rafting destinations in the country, and also one of the most dangerous . It has more than 20 continuous rapids. More than 300,000 people go every year. The rapids are categorized as Class III, but Mickey's is Class IV.  Adventurers get to choose between a 5-foot ledge drop into a deep hole or a rocky descent down a 4-foot ledge. Few adventures are as thrilling and terrifying at the same time as  riding mighty waves . 

Appalachian Trail

Arguably the most famous long-distance trail in the world, the Appalachian Trail runs for approximately 2,200 miles from Springer Mountain, Georgia to Mt. Katahdin and Maine. Marked by iconic white blazes, the trail attracts 2 million hikers annually, including some two-thousand would-be thru-hikers. Part of the trail within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited in the country , is perfect for majestic fall foliage displays .

Hike an Active Volcano in Hawaii

A lot of volcanoes have been in a  continuous eruption state for decades and even thousands of years. As the most active  volcano in Hawaii , Kilauea has had a history of eruptions. Try hiking the Kīlauea Iki Trail. You will descend through a  lush rainforest  to the floor of the solidified but still steaming Kīlauea Iki Crater lava lake, according to  NPS . Bring water, food, hat, sunscreen and  rain gear .

Go Snorkeling on Catalina Island

Snorkeling is the perfect way to get close to pure marine life without swimming at  unnerving depths . Floating calmly in clear blue waters and gazing at bright and colorful flora and reefs, swarmed by many different kinds of fish species makes for an  unforgettable trip . By far the Lover's Cove is the most popular snorkel spot   off Catalina. Snorkelers will see sea stars, eels, anemones, octopuses, and, most notably, the brilliant orange Garibaldi fish.

Swim With Manatees in Florida

Crystal River is the best place to go swimming with manatees  and the best time is in September and October when there is a rise in the manatee population. Reputable outfitters can take you to the manatees without disturbing their fragile habitat and provide all the gear you need, including  wetsuits . The water temperature in the river is a brisk 72 degrees year-round.

Explore Underwater Caves in Florida

Exploring underwater caves can be an incredible experience, but you should be properly trained and it's best to travel with a guide. It is especially dangerous because if something were to happen, the diver cannot swim vertically up to the surface because of the surrounding cave. Some of the best places to go cave diving in the U.S. are Devil's Cave System in Ginnie Springs and Merritt's Mill Pond in Florida.

Camp at Sahale Glacier Camp in Washington

This is one of the most dangerous camping places in the world . Sahale Glacier is on the south slope of Sahale Mountain, North Cascades National Park. There is no camping at Cascade Pass, but the  best camping place  is close enough about 5.7 miles in and 7,600 feet high. The views of alpine meadows, snow-covered summits and lakes are absolutely incredible, but getting to the camp is not easy.

Witness Fall Foliage in New England

Clean air, panoramic views of bursting bright colors and miles of forests  – the New England states are not the only ones boasting awe-inspiring fall foliage . All of New England is known for its autumn colors. Chances are you already live a short  road trip away  from spots with phenomenal mixtures of yellow, red, orange and green. Adventurers and  fans of outdoor activities  can't wait to put their hiking boots on.

Canoe the Boundary Waters in Minnesota

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is part of the Superior National Forest. Over 1 million acres in size, it has over 1,200 miles of canoe routes . Because this area was set aside in 1926 to preserve its primitive character and made a part of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 1964, it allows visitors to canoe , portage and camp in the spirit of the French Voyageurs of 200 years ago, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

Go to a Super Bowl

Regardless of whether you like football or only watch the final game for the commercials, watching the  Super Bowl live is only topped if you were a player and won the trophy.  The lights, the fireworks , the half time show, the fans, the quality of game, the after-party (especially if your team wins) – all of these make seeing the Big Game live a must-do . 

See Indy 500 Live

It's the perfect guys-only getaway . The Indianapolis 500 Mile Race is called "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing." If you are into fast cars, seeing it live is a must. Along with the Kentucky Derby, the Rose Bowl and a select few others, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and its marquee event has retained its status as the most powerful one day event for a sports fan.

Drive Along Pacific Coast Highway

This is definitely one of the most scenic roads in the entire country . If you want to go beach hopping, this is the road trip for you. The Pacific Coast Highway will take you to some remarkable beach towns,  some can even be great for surfing , eventually leading to the famous Big Sur, a rugged stretch of California's central coast between Carmel and San Simeon. Drive Big Sur's length via twisting Highway One. The Bixby Bridge is a favorite spot  for photos . Another one is McWay Falls, a cascade that falls about 70 feet into a remote beach.

Marvel at the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights before disappear . They can be seen all over the Land of the Midnight Sun. However, the most reliable spot to see them is  Fairbanks . Take the Northern Lights Tour and follow your guide to some of the best locations to  view the aurora . Tip: Visit in the winter when it is cold and dark for peak viewing.

Ski in Colorado

Colorado has some of the best ski resorts in the world , including for beginners and "non-skiers." Aspen Snowmass, for example, never fails to charm each and every guest—even those not interested in the excellent powder-topped terrain. Ullr Nights, the Friday night gathering that takes place each week, includes family, friends, tubing, snowbiking, ice skating, hot chocolate, a bonfire and live music. The resort also hosts yoga classes at 11,212 feet with stellar views and excellent programs for kids.

Go Surfing in San Diego

San Diego is one of the coolest surfing towns in the world . It has awesome wave pools in addition to a plethora of good surf spots and some of the best surf schools in the country. Some of the best spots are the world-famous river-mouth point break at the border of San Diego and Orange Counties –Trestles, Oceanside and its miles of gentle breaks, Cardiff, Del Mar, Blacks Beach, which is arguably San Diego's best wave.

Catch a Rodeo in Wyoming

Catch a rodeo at Cheyenne Frontier Days , the world's largest outdoor rodeo. The city has been known for decades as the prime location for railroading and rodeo-ing in the country. There are also many steam engines and working dude ranches to check out. Every Friday night, during summer, small towns are lit up with the excitement of rodeo arenas, according to Travel Wyoming.

Ice Climbing in Montana

Ice climbing is no longer just a subset of mountaineering. More and more adrenaline seekers climb frozen waterfalls and steep ice since the equipment for this high-risk sport has gotten better. For an extreme experience, try Mount Washington in New Hampshire. The weather changes fast and all the time and ice and snow is everlasting in many parts of the mountain. Alaska and Montana are friendlier. Ice Climbing in Glacier National Park is for the more experienced climbers .  

Visit Walt Disney World in Florida

This is the place where magic happens and dreams come true. If you haven't already, visit Walt Disney World . There is so much to do and even more to explore. Take your family on a behind the scenes tour; have a seat at Cinderella's Royal table and enjoy a meal with Cinderella herself; ride the monorail for incredible  sightseeing opportunities ; and hop in an open-air vehicle and explore the African savanna on a  safari at Animal Kingdom .

Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its extravagant parties, one of which includes Mardi Gras. Participate in festivals, join in on the parades and even take a city tour.

Go on a Hike in Grand Canyon National Park

A trip to the Grand Canyon would not be complete without a hike. Visitors say hiking the canon is an incredible experience and the backcountry is truly amazing . Hike the Rim-to-Rim Trail, the Bright Angel Trail, Rainbow Rim Trail, Hermit Trail and South Kaibab Trail.

Visit Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

Niagara Falls links the international border between the U.S. and Canada. It was formed by receding glaciers. It consists of three waterfalls: The Horseshoe Falls (the most powerful waterfall in North America), the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The falls are located on the Niagara River and they have a combined fall with the highest flow rate of all of the world's waterfalls.

Visit Cedar Point Amusement Park in Ohio

Also known as the "Roller Coaster Capitol of the World," this is one of the world's most popular amusement parks . It contains 18 world-class roller coasters and a variety of family-friendly rides. Ride the Millennium Force – one of the world's most thrilling roller coasters . It is a 310-foot ride that reaches speeds of 96 mph and features an elevator cable lift system that helps you get to the top faster.

Go Zip Lining in Las Vegas

There are tons of adrenaline inducing activities in Las Vegas , but probably the most popular is the SlotZilla zip line. Soar down Freemont Street between the casinos and pedestrian promenade. Then, if you're looking for some fun outside the city, zip line with Flightlinez and soar over the Mojave Desert.

Climb to the Top of the Space Needle in Seattle

If you are looking for a spectacular view, look no further than from the top of the Space Needle in Seattle. The observation deck is located at about 520 feet. It offers 350 degree views of the Emerald City.

Visit Times Square in New York City

Times Square is one of the best and  most visited attractions  in New York. Tourists can enjoy delicious foods from famous restaurants, shopping in countless shops and watching plays and musicals. But visit at night for one of the most magnificent Times Square experiences; simply look around you and admire the city's lights .

Drive From Miami to Key West

Hop in your car and head out to Overseas Highway for a spectacular trip. The drive from Miami to Key West is 150-miles. It is known as one of the "greatest American road trips of all time." There are tons of things to do and see along the way, but probably the most famous is simply driving over the Seven Mile Bridge. Once you get to Key West, visit their famous beaches and go sailing, snorkeling and swimming with sea turtles.

Go on a River Cruise in Mississippi

Hop on board and explore one of the most famous rivers in the U.S. – the Mississippi River. American Cruise Lines  will take you on a luxurious history and culture trip through Mississippi and Ohio aboard two paddlewheeler river boats.  USA River Cruises  also offer different trips. There are plenty of variations, including going from Memphis to Nashville on a ship.

Learn How to Ski in Smuggler’s Notch, Vermont

If you have always wanted to learn how to ski, it's important that you choose the right ski school for you. Smuggler's Notch offers adult ski programs. New skiers can take ski lessons with knowledgeable instructors, explore new terrain and gain confidence on the  slopes . Advanced skiers can work with instructors to advance their skills on the mountain. They offer adult group lessons and adult private lessons. Special programs are also offered, these consist of The Mountain Experience for Skiers and women's programs.

Lake Shore Drive, Illinois

According to  The Travel Channel , "Lake Shore Drive in Chicago is the prettiest extended stretch of urban parkway in America. It's bordered for most of its 15-plus miles by green space, beaches, and Lake Michigan on the east and by a mix of parkland, skyscrapers, and luxury apartments on the west." Make some stops along the way and check out Lincoln Park, the Lakefront Trail, and the  beautiful beaches .

The Kentucky Derby, Louisville

The Kentucky Derby is more than just an annual sporting event , where you watch horses race. It is a "celebration of southern culture and a true icon of America," according to kentuckyderby.com. It's the longest running sporting event in the United States, beginning in 1875. The race is known in the U.S. as "The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports" or "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

Visit SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida

Get up close and personal with animals  at SeaWorld. View dolphins, sea lions, stingrays and flamingos. Educate yourselves in the interactive exhibits, ride roller coasters, watch spectacular shows and treat yourself to  a private buffet  with Shamu.

Visit the National Mall, Washington D.C.

The National Mall is the heart of the nation's capital and of the entire United States. It is where the nation celebrates, honors and demonstrates its commitment to democracy. The National Mall is accompanied by impressive structures, monuments and memorials.

Visit Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls  is one of the world's tallest falls at 2,425-feet. It is made up of three separate falls; the Upper Yosemite Fall, the middle cascades and the Lower Yosemite Fall. If you are up for it, take an all-day hike to the top of the falls for incredible views. Other falls located in Yosemite National Park include Sentinel Falls, Ribbon Fall and Bridalveil Fall.

Go on a Hike in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has over 700 miles of trails and is home to over 70 species of mammals and over 260 species of birds. Going on a  hike  is one of the best ways to view the national park. Hike Grinnell Glacier for outstanding views of beautiful  waterfalls  and wildflower meadows. Begin your hike at the Gribbell Glacier Trailhead. The trip is 7.6 miles and you will reach an elevation of 1,840 feet. Also, don't forget to hike the Iceberg Lake Trail and the Highline Trail.

Spend the Night in Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

Take your family to the Georgia Aquarium for one of the best educational and entertaining trips you will ever experience. Kids will love it because they can spend the night (and so can you!); the aquarium offers "Sleepover Programs." You will get entrance to all presentations, guided tours, dinner, breakfast and the chance to sleep right in front of a gorgeous gallery window. Other things to do at the aquarium include  animal encounters  – dolphins, penguins and sea otters.

Georgiaaquarium.org

Drive the Going-To-The-Sun Road in Montana

Drive through  Glacier National Park  and explore the incredible forests, tall mountains, and beautiful valleys on the Going-to-the-sun road. Make sure you stop at Logan Pass — and don't forget your camera.

Explore the Ozark Caverns in Missouri

Missouri is home to thousands of caves, most of which are protected environments. Go on Ozark Caverns tour and view Angel Showers – a never-ending shower of water that seems to come straight out of the ceiling.

Visit Clingmans Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in  Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi, according to  nps . It rises at 6,643 feet. The observation tower is spectacular. It offers incredible views, but climb the steep half-mile walk to the tower at the top for an even better view.

Go Skydiving in Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is the only dropzone in Southern  California  and is the home of the highest tandem jump in the United States. The jump is so high that you are given supplemental  oxygen  on the ride up. Enjoy the spectacular views of California and film your experience. Take it home to remember the moment forever.

https://www.skydivesantabarbara.com/

Visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens in Vail, Colorado

The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens are open year-round, although their peak flower season is from June to August. Bring your family to experience a variety of exhibits, listen to live music and even share a  romantic  date night at their Painting Workshop. Bring your children to Betty Ford Alpine Gardens for a once in a lifetime experience. They have a Kid's Amphitheatre, Solstice Stones and a hike up the Gore creek to a garden made for children. They also have  waterfalls ,  meditation areas  and Alpine pools.

Visit a Brewery in Vermont

Vermont has the most breweries per capita in any state. According to Travel Like a Local: Vermont , Vermont started to gain recognition as a leading producer of craft beer in the U.S. in the summer of 2009; today there are over 40 breweries operating in the state. Some of the best breweries to visit include Four Quarters, Hill Farmstead, Lost Nation Brewing and Fiddlehead Brewing.

Visit Rainbow Bridge in Arches National Park

Arches National Park  is home to the largest stone arch in the world – Rainbow Bridge. It is approximately 290 feet tall and 42 feet thick at its top point. The bridge is well-known to local native tribes. About 85,000 people from around the world visit each year, according to  nps .

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco offers spectacular skyline views and one of the best places to see them is from the Golden Gate Bridge. The suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate strait between San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean is an iconic U.S. landmark. The name is even protected by Streets and Highway Code.

USA Bucket List – 16 Places To See In America Before You Die

Sharing is caring!

There is so much to do and see in American that a USA bucket list could go on forever. That being said, if you want to make sure you cross off the most important must-see destinations in the country, the list below will get you started.

The USA is best known for high iconic landmarks that have become symbols of the country, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Golden Gate Bridge.

And what about all the amazing natural wonders such as the  National Parks and amazing beaches.

Read on for my list of the top 10 places in the USA that everyone should visit before they die. Plus the most important historic monuments in America.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my  Disclosure for more information.

MORE UNITED STATES BUCKET LIST IDEAS

Florida Bucket List – The Ultimate List Of Things To Do

Epic San Francisco Bucket List {Must-Do Sights & Attractions}

Southern California Bucket List – The Best Things To Do in SoCal

Usa bucket list ideas.

There are so many beautiful sites to see while visiting our great nation! You will love this ultimate bucket list of places to see in the USA.

The USA is a diverse country, with many beautiful places to visit.

For this article, I am listing the top 10 cities in America every tourist should see before they leave.

This list includes some of the most well-known attractions and iconic landmarks in each city as well as some hidden gems people might not know about!

Here are the top 10 places everyone should visit at least once in their life.

1. The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most visited landmarks in America. It’s a symbol for the US and a monument to freedom.

This monument was originally built in 1886 and has been standing since then to represent the friendship between France and America

2. New York City

The most populous city in the US that is home to some of the world’s largest skyscrapers (Empire State Building), Times Square which has one of the biggest video screens on Earth, and Central Park which offers visitors more than 800 acres of space for outdoor recreation like jogging or biking.

New York is most known for being the center for business and industry on US soil as well as its numerous famous landmarks such as One World Trade Center , The Chrysler Building , The Empire state building , The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island National Museum which is where many immigrants first stepped foot on US soil.

Along with places to visit you can also find theaters, restaurants & bars such as Times Square , Broadway shows and the infamous Times Square Ball Drop at midnight on New Year’s eve .

Check out my  NYC Bucket List for 85+ Things to Do in New York

3. hollywood.

Known for being one of the most well known centers for filmmaking and hosting celebrities (Walk of Fame).

Since its earliest years, the city has been associated with American cinema and is one of the leaders in producing films.

Hollywood has many attractions including Universal Studios, Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Walt Disney’s Birthplace Home and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

If you are visiting Los Angeles, make sure to check out Hollywood plus the other amazing attractions on my  Los Angeles Bucket List.

4. Las Vegas

Las Vegas is the entertainment capital of the world with casinos, nightclubs and shows.

The food in Las Vegas is some of the best in the World with world-class chefs in residence in many of the hotels and restaurants.

With so much to do in this city it has become a top tourist destination in America.

Don’t forget to visit neighbouring Hoover Dam and The Grand Canyon while on your Las Vegas vacation.

5. San Francisco

San Francisco is one of America’s most diverse cities and also one of the most beautiful.

The city hosts many attractions including Alcatraz Island, China Town, Golden Gate Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, Nob Hill, Pier 39 and Union Square. You can check out the whole list of amazing places to visit with my  Epic San Francisco Bucket List .

6. Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the symbols for San Francisco and was opened to traffic on May 27, 1937.

Many people believe it to be the most beautiful bridge in the world!

This suspension bridge stands at a height of 746 ft and is painted orange/red. It connects San Francisco to Marin County across the Golden Gate Strait.

5) New Orleans

Known as the birthplace of jazz music, the birthplace of Mardi Gras and one of the best food cities in America.

With the French Quarter being known as the most active area in New Orleans it is home to famous restaurants like Arnaud’s and Antoine’s.

The architecture also makes this city stand out with its Spanish-French influence and beautiful buildings in all different colors.

Along Bourbon Street there are many bars that host live jazz bands during Mardi Gras so people can party all night long!

Hot Tip: While you are visiting the Deep South, make sure to spend some time visiting the rest of  Louisiana’s tourist attractions too.

7) Washington D.C.

The capital of the United States is known for its government buildings (White House), monuments, museums and memorials (The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall).

Many famous Americans are buried there including politicians like John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr., and Abraham Lincoln as well as war heroes(John Glenn) and writers such as Mark Twain & Robert Frost.

D.C is one of those places that represents how America came to be through the hard work of our forefathers who were brave enough to strike out on their own despite all of the dangers in an unknown land.

8) Yellowstone National Park

Many people have heard about Yellowstone even if they have never visited the USA.

This national park is located in Wyoming as well as parts of Montana and Idaho.

It covers an area of over 9,600 square miles which makes it the world’s largest protected area inside of one country .

Located within the park is Old Faithful Geyser that shoots water into the air every hour on the hour.

Also there are other huge geysers like Grand Prismatic Spring and Excelsior Geyser that have risen to over 200 feet high!

Not only is this a very popular place for tourists but wildlife seems to love it too with elk, buffalo, mule deer and bison calling it home year round.

9) Mount Rushmore

Mount Rushmore is a 60ft sculpture carved into the side of a mountain in South Dakota.

It depicts four US Presidents (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt & Abraham Lincoln) who were chosen because they set an example of what qualities America should strive towards.

Although Mount Rushmore is really out of the way for most travellers in the USA as it is not close to any of the major cities, it is really worth a visit once in your lifetime.

While you are in the area, make sure to stop by the Crazy Horse Memorial which was started by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948  and never finished due to funding issues.

Me at Mount Rushmore!

10. South Beach, Miami

No USA Bucket List would be complete without some mention of Florida. This amazing state is packed with things to do including Disney World in Orlando and the Everglades National Park.

One must-have spot is South Beach in Miami that boosts gorgeous white sands, impressive art-deco buildings and a fantastic nightlife.

Top 6 Historic Monuments To Visit In The USA

In America, everyone has heard about how they need to see the Statue of Liberty and Mount Rushmore.

But there are many other monuments that are just as important but not nearly as well-known.

Here is a list of 10 historic monuments in the USA every tourist should visit before leaving.

1) The Declaration of Independence

A document written by Thomas Jefferson with what became known as the “self-evident” truths which include life, liberty & pursuit of happiness.

You can find the Declaration of Independence on display at The National Archives Building where you can also find some interesting facts about the founding fathers such as George Washington cutting down his father’s cherry tree.

2) The White House

The Executive Residence in Washington DC  is an essential inclusion on any East coast bucket list.

It holds many events throughout the year such as Easter Egg Rolls & picnics scheduled during summer months with over 30,000 people attending each event.

3) Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

You will find this museum in Skokie (Chicago’s northern suburb ).

Professor Deborah Lipstadt who survived the holocaust herself and wanted to share her story with the public opened it to educate people about the holcaust.

Inside there are thousands of artifacts & records from the Nazi plus parts of Anne Frank’s Diary.

4) Brooklyn Bridge National Monument

A bridge that spans from Manhattan to Brooklyn over East River in New York City – take a stroll over it at it the evening to view Manhattan all its glory.

The bridge was designed by architect John Roebling who died during its construction so his son Washington Roebling continued working on it but sadly passed away as well just a few years later due to decompression sickness (caused by too much pressure being put on his body).

Open since 1883, this is “Americas Favorite Architecture” according to the American Institute of Architects. It is always a favorite on any USA Bucket List.

5) World War II Memorial

This memorial on the National Mall in Washington DC remembers all the military troops that fought in World War II .

The monument was designed by Friedrich St. Florian and has a total area of 53,000 square feet.

The structure itself was built as a half circle with two identical fountains on each side (one representing the Pacific theater and one for the Atlantic theater) along with trees, walkways & benches.

6) Mount Vernon

An estate located on the banks of Potomac River which belonged to George Washington .

As our first President who led us through our independence of America from England this site pays tribute to him and his wife Martha Washington who moved here after he died in 1799.

There are over 70 acres of beautiful gardens & waterfront views that make this trip worth the visit.

USA Bucket List – Final Thoughts

The USA is a land of many opportunities and countless places to explore.

If you’re looking for beautiful scenery, cultural experiences or just a great time with friends then this article should have given you some ideas on the best destinations in America that will suit your interests.

We hope these top attractions inspire you to plan an unforgettable adventure in our country!

It’s never too late to start planning because no matter what season it is there are always new things happening in American cities like Los Angeles & New York City.

More USA Bucket List Ideas

Chicago Bucket List: 65+ Best Things to Do in Chicago

US Bucket List: 50 Things to See & Do in the US Before You Die

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered what the top tourist destinations in the United States are? If you’re looking to start your bucket of things to see in the United States before you die,  take a look at our list of 50 ideas.

View the Best Mexican Restaurants Across America

Getting hungry while you roam the states? View our list of the best Mexican restaurants across the country.

Grand Canyon National Park

20 S Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

The country’s most iconic national park, the Grand Canyon, encompasses over 277 miles.

The Freedom Trail

139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111

This 2.5-mile pathway passes over a dozen American landmarks including Paul Revere’s house and the Bunker Hill Monument.

Niagara Falls State Park

332 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

One of the highest waterfalls in America, Niagara Falls is located near the Canadian border.

Central Park

Manhattan, New York, NY

Stretching from 59th Street to 110th Street in downtown Manhattan, Central Park has been a New York landmark since the 1850s.

Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas, NV

Featuring over 4 miles of upscale hotels and casinos, the Las Vegas Strip is one of the most popular tourist attractions in America.

Grand Ole Opry

2804 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TV, 37214

Showcasing the country’s best country music since 1925, the Grand Ole Opry features a weekly concert in the heart of Nashville.

300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

A landmark from the Texas Revolution, The Alamo is a San Antonio destination to remember.

Kentucky Derby

700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208

Horse racing’s flagship event at Churchill Downs is a classic American sporting event.

French Quarter

New Orleans, LA

Famous for its vibrant nightlife and iconic buildings, Bourbon Street and the French Quarter in New Orleans is known as the home of Mardi Gras.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, WY

With parts spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a bucket list item that you should see in the United States before you die. This park is full of natural wonders like geysers, mountains, and lakes.

Redwood National and State Parks

Northern California

Featuring some of the tallest trees on Earth, the Redwoods in Northern California can live for well over 1,000 years.

Mammoth Cave

1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Truly one of the top things to do in America, Mammoth Cave is one of the world’s largest caves. Try not to get lost!

Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco, CA

The Golden Gate Bridge is over a mile long and is recognized across the world as a symbol of the United States and California.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Featuring two active volcanoes, this national park is one of the main attractions of the Hawaiian Islands.

Overseas Highway

Miami Beach & Key West, FL

Connecting the Florida Keys to the United States mainland, the Overseas Highway allows access to America’s largest area of coral reefs.

Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower

233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

Get a birds-eye view of the Windy City from this breathtaking observation box on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower (or, as locals still call it, the Sears Tower).

Indianapolis 500

4790 W 16th St, Indianapolis, IN 46222

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosts the Indy 500 every spring, and it’s a bucket list item for fans and non-racing fans alike.

Space Needle

400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109

A Seattle landmark, the Space Needle features an observation deck and was originally built for the 1962 World’s Fair.

Route 66 Museum

2229 W Gary Blvd, Clinton, OK 73601

Offering a personal journey along the country’s legendary highway, the Route 66 Museum pays homage to the Main Street of America.

Yosemite National Park, CA

A famous destination for work climbers, El Capitan is a 4,000-foot rock formation in Yosemite National Park.

1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802

In operation since 1955, Disneyland is the original theme park and continues to be a popular tourist attraction for visitors from around the world.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley, CA

Known for its extreme climate conditions, Death Valley is a desert between California and Nevada.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114

Documenting the history of rock n’ roll, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a popular Cleveland attraction regardless of your taste in music.

Jacob’s Well

1699 Mt Sharp Rd,   Wimberley, TX 78676

One of the most dangerous, yet alluring diving spots in the world, Jacob’s Well is a karstic spring at least 140 feet deep, where divers can explore underwater caves at their own risk.

Vail Ski Resort

Vail, CO 81657

One of the largest ski resorts in America, Vail Ski Resort is a world-class ski destination in the Colorado mountains.

Disney World

Orlando, FL 32830

With four different theme parks, Disney World is one of America’s most popular tourist attractions.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500

The home of the President of the United States has been in use since 1800 and is an iconic American landmark.

Iowa State Fair

3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317

A tradition started in 1854, the Iowa State Fair is held over 11 days in August and attracts over a million people per year.

Fenway Park

4 Jersey St, Boston, MA 02215

The oldest stadium in Major League Baseball, Fenway Park opened in 1912 and is located in a Boston neighborhood.

Powell’s City of Books

1005 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209

Powell’s City of Books is the world’s largest independent bookstore and is a distinguished Portland tourist attraction.

Millennium Park

201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602

Located near The Loop in downtown Chicago , Millennium Park features several famous structures such as “The Bean.”

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

18300 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465

An open-air theater built into a beautiful Colorado rock structure, Red Rocks is an unforgettable venue for a concert.

Times Square

Manhattan, NY 10036

Famous for its bright lights and crowded streets, Times Square is a major Manhattan intersection that’s been featured in countless movies.

Smithsonian Museums

Washington, DC

The Smithsonian Institute offers over 11 museums and galleries on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

Statue of Liberty

New York, NY 10004

A neoclassical landmark dating back to the 1880s, the Statue of Liberty is a true American bucket list destination.

Hollywood Hall of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

More than 2,500 notable figures are honored on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Nevada, 89005

Assembled during the Great Depression, the Hoover Dam provides power to several states and is toured by over one million people each year.

The Masters Tournament

2604 Washington Rd, Augusta, GA 30904

The most famous golf tournament in the world is held annually at Augusta National Golf Course during the first week of April.

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 344870

Featuring some of the biggest roller coasters in the country, Cedar Point is an amusement park in Ohio that opened over 150 years ago.

Kennedy Space Center

Merritt Island, FL 32899

The Kennedy Space Center in Florida is one of NASA’s main launch centers and includes a massive Visitor Complex.

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Sitting between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan, Mackinac Island is famous for its historic dining and boating attractions.

Mall of America

60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425

Complete with roller coasters, aquariums, and around 500 shops, Mall of America is one of the largest malls in the world.

Wrigley Field

1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613

A classic baseball experience on Chicago’s north side, Wrigley Field has been in operation since 1914.

Zion National Park

Springdale, UT 84767

Known for its iconic steep red cliffs, Zion National Park in Utah contains beautiful rock formations along a river.

The Gorge Ampitheatre

754 Silica Rd NW, George, WA 98848

Located in a scenic mountain range, The Gorge is often voted one of the best outdoor music venues in the world.

Empire State Building

20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001

Construction on this historic skyscraper began in 1930, and it continues to be a symbol of the Big Apple.

AT&T Stadium

1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011

Home of the Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium is the biggest professional football stadium in the country and the best place to catch an NFL game.

Northern Lights

Visible from many places in the beautiful state of Alaska, the Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible phenomena.

Wine Country

Northern Bay Area, CA

One of the premier wine-growing regions in the world, Wine Country in California is a bucket list experience for tourists worldwide.

Badlands National Park

South Dakota

With dramatic rock formations and canyons, Badlands National Park is one of the best natural parks in the country.

So, what’s on your bucket list of things to do across America? Let us know in the comments below!

About Author

Michael Malaychuk

Michael is a freelance writer from Chicago with a background in the accounting and entertainment industries. He has written about sports, music, real estate, things to do in Chicago, and more. Some of Michael’s favorite topics to write about on UrbanMatter.com are restaurants, events, music, and pop culture.

20 Places All Americans Should See Before They Die

Consider this your checklist for some of America's most epic sites.

Look no further than the U.S.A. to scratch your wanderlust itch, whether you crave culture and history, spectacular natural landscapes, or serious adventure. With a range of options from national parks to small towns, consider this your checklist for epic American sites.

Save These Places!

Grand Canyon, Arizona

Visitors of all ages can appreciate the Grand Canyon's staggering, multicolored majesty from its rim. Or adventure seekers in good physical health can hike down to the Colorado River for a camping overnighter they'll never forget, before trekking back up and out. Bonus: See the spectacular falls on the Havasupai reservation, not technically within Grand Canyon National Park.

Get more information about the Grand Canyon.

Yosemite, California

Yosemite National Park in California's Sierra Nevada mountains is an ideal place for camping—or try out more civilized accommodations in the historic Ahwahnee Hotel. The park is filled with towering sequoia trees, plummeting falls, and granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome. (A climb to the top is a bucket-list must for any avid trekkers—at least those without a serious fear of heights!)

Get more information about Yosemite.

Big Sur, California

Located in California's Central Coast, Big Sur offers world-class visual drama. The Santa Lucia Mountains rise sharply at the coast from the Pacific Ocean, creating striking views appreciated by campers, hikers, and other sightseers. It also offers one of the only waterfalls along the coast that feeds straight into the ocean at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Get more information about Big Sur.

Na Pali Coast, Hawaii

Na Pali Coast State Park, along the northwest edge of the island of Kaua'i, includes 16 coastal miles of impeccable vistas. The cliffs along the shore rise sharply from the Pacific Ocean, and hiking trails wind their way to waterfalls and other visual gems. Explore the wow-worthy views by hiking, helicopter, or sea kayak.

Get more information about the Napali Coast.

Hudson Vallley, New York

The Hudson Valley, along New York's Hudson River, offers a substantial variety of options for visitors. Try the Village of Nyack, with its quaint Victorian shops and restaurants. Visit the 250-year-old Mohonk Mountain Resort, a Victorian castle with a private lake. Kids love Rye's Playland Amusement Park, which dates back to 1927.

Get more information about Hudson Valley.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

New Mexico's capital city is the oldest one in the country—its founding dates back all the way to 1610. The historic city, at an altitude of 7,000 feet. is known for its arts and culture, dining and hospitality, and diverse artisan shopping. It's also a great place to visit in all seasons, with blankets of snow in wintertime, festivals in the fall, mild temps in spring, and moderate summer temps (compared to much of the country).

Get more information about Santa Fe.

Crater Lake, Oregon

Oregon's Crater Lake National Park is the state's only national park—and one of the oldest in the country. The site gets its name—and breathtaking scenery—from the remains of a former volcano. Its rim surrounds the striking blue water of the United States' deepest lake, in which boat tours run during the summer months.

Get more information about Crater Lake.

Devils Tower, Wyoming

Your jaw will drop when you catch the first glimpse of Devils Tower, the wild geologic feature rising from an open prairie surrounding the Black Hills in Wyoming. It's considered a sacred site to local tribe, but it's also a must-do for visiting rock climbers, thanks to its arrangement of parallel cracks. Those not inclined to dangling perilously can also enjoy ranger tours, camping, hiking—and epic selfies.

Get more information about Devils Tower.

Florida Keys, Florida

If you think you have to fly somewhere exotic to visit tropical islands, think again: The Florida Keys offer the beauty of the most far-flung islands—no passport required. The island chain, located about 60 miles from the southernmost part of Miami, is a pristine destination for divers, boaters, snorkelers, and fishing enthusiasts.

Get more information about the Florida Keys.

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii

Surely one of the most surreal and surprising places in the U.S., Volcanoes National Park on Hawai'i's Big Island includes glimpses at one of the world's most active: Kīlauea. Visitors gather together as the sun sets at the Jaggar museum and overlook to watch as the lava's orange glow begins to appear in the darkness. During the day, tour the park by car or on foot for views ranging from moonlike desert to lush rain forest.

Get more information about Hawai'i Volcanoes.

Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico

New Mexico's Carlsbad Caverns is a system of 119 ancient caves hidden below the landscape, formed when sulfuric acid dissolved limestone that surrounded it. The climate inside is cool, and makes an exciting stop for caving, either on a self-guided or ranger-guided tour. When the sun sets, listen to a ranger talk just before watching the caves' bats fly out into the sky.

Get more information about Carlsbad Caverns.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, California

The world's largest rotating tram cars offer breathtaking views up the dramatic cliffs of Chino Canyon, a 10-minute white-knuckle ride from the Valley Station in Palm Springs. Start a hike at the top, or just a nature walk to catch the views in any season. (Bring a sweater—it can be more than 20 degrees cooler at the top!) In the area, consider a longer visit to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, or the live-in Old West movie set Pioneertown.

Get more information about the Aerial Tramway.

Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska

Snow and ice cover most of this massive glacial park in Alaska. The huge Harding Icefield is the source of the glacial water that carves out seawater-filled valleys that form fjords worthy of National Geographic photography. Marine wildlife—like sea lions, harbor seals, and whales—is another major draw for nature-loving tourists.

Get more information about Kenai Fjords.

Zion National Park, Utah

At nearly a century old, Zion is the oldest national park in Utah, known for its million-dollar views. Among the well-known hikes in the park is the Narrows, which offers a 16-mile trek through water (a great refresher against the summertime heat). Horseback riders and campers will also hit their stride in the picturesque park.

Get more information about Zion National Park.

Newport, Rhode Island

This 400-year-old seaside town is filled with historic homes and landmarks—including the 17th century White Horse Tavern and the 18th century Redwood Library. The massive mansions built by the 19th century's bold-faced names—most notably the Breakers, completed in 1895 as the summer home for Cornelius Vanderbilt II—are a major tourist attraction. The region is also known for shopping, beaches, arts and culture, and dining.

Get more information about Newport.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores once flew under the radar, but is now becoming a better-known vacation spot. And the appeal is clear: White beaches with superfine sand rival some of the softest beaches in the world. Beyond that, the area offers deep-sea fishing, historic Fort Morgan, and even a zipline.

Get more information about Gulf Shores.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Just south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Nantucket island has colonial heritage with quaint, historic building facades that make for recognizable—and enviable—photo opps. It also offers picturesque beaches and picnic spots, a cobblestoned Main Street, and the chance to rub elbows with a well-heeled but relaxed crowd.

Get more information about Nantucket.

Portland, Maine

Maine's biggest city has a history as a 400-year-old fishing village, a port, and a heritage that shows up in its charming visuals: quaint cobblestone streets, dozens of lighthouses, and a vibrant waterfront scene. The city is a great stop for museums and culture, as well as for food: Its culinary scene is well known well outside its own borders.

Get more information about Portland.

Lake Champlain, Vermont

Lake Champlain sprawls more than 100 miles south from Canada, forming the border between New York and Vermont on the north. Visit outdoorsy downtown Burlington in Vermont, for handicrafts, live music, and food. Or visit the islands within the lake—Isle La Motte, North Hero, Grand Isle, South Hero—for summertime water recreation. In the wintertime, ski the region's Green Mountains.

Get more information about Lake Champlain.

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Travel .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

Vintage Beach Photos Show Summer Fun Is Timeless

10 Beautiful North Carolina Resorts in the Country

A Summer Weekend in Ontario's Prince Edward County

Must-Visit Ice Cream Fests Across the USA

Escape to the Emerald Coast This Summer

The 8 Best Teardrop Trailers to Use This Summer

The Perfect Itinerary for a Yellowstone Adventure

20 Rules Guests Follow at the Kentucky Derby

The Country’s Best Spots for Bird-watching

Plan a Trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan

Scenic Spots to Watch the Total Solar Eclipse

10 U.S. National Parks You Need To Explore Before You Die

"The fundamental idea behind the parks is that the country belongs to the people." - FDR

By: Mike Scaturo + Save to a List

The National Parks Service has spent 100 years protecting and preserving our country’s most precious natural and cultural resources. They've given a gift to every American and visitors from all over the world. It’s a vital part of what makes the United States a wonderful place for exploration, but with 58 national parks and 117 national monuments, deciding where to visit on your next epic road trip can be a bit overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten national parks to visit before you die and even given you a few tips on where to start once you get there. It's a lot to see in just one lifetime...start making your plans now!

1. Acadia National Park

2. Zion National Park

3. Shenandoah National Park

4. Grand Teton National Park

5. Yosemite National Park

6. Glacier National Park

7. Denali National Park & Preserve

8. Olympic National Park

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

10. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.

Overnighter on the Sonoma Coast

Benjamin Canevari

A quick escape for some fresh air north of the Bay Area.

Cooking in the Southwest with the Gerber Gear ComplEAT Camp Cook Set

Tanner Price

10 Things you need to do in Baja

wyld honeys

Ready for an unforgettable adventure in Baja, Mexico? We've rounded up the top 10 things you need to do while you're there. From visiting the famed boojum trees in Cataviña to exploring secluded waterfalls, there's something for everyone. by: wyld honeys

Journey to Wyoming’s premier snowmobiling destination: Togwotee Mountain Lodge

Samuel Brockway

A couple of snowmobiling newbies hop aboard some steel horse sleds to explore the mountains of Wyoming.

Hiking in comfort: a review of Danner Mountain 600 Evo boots

Meghan White

Picture this: a crisp morning in San Diego, the sun peeking over the horizon, casting a warm glow over Oak Canyon in Mission Trails Regional Park.

• Local Adventures
• Tours and trips
• Camping Nearby
• Outbound PRO Membership
• Add your property

Mobile Apps

© 2024 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy

• Things To Do
• World Travel
• Travel Deals
• North America

• Travel Hacks

10 Places to See in the USA Before You Die

As recent events have reminded us, you never know when you may no longer be able to travel. With so many places to see, it was impossible to come up with a “best of” list. Consider this particular list as more of an introduction to the essential American attractions. Here are the 10 places to see in the USA before you die.

Places to See in the USA Before You Die

1.  the grand canyon, arizona.

Seeing the grandeur of the Grand Canyon in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona can be a breathtaking experience. The Canyon is 277 miles long, almost 10 miles wide, and one mile deep. It has been expanding for the past six million years thanks to the mighty Colorado River.

If you need more inspiration and are fit for a challenge, hike the canyon rim to rim and then go white water rafting down the Colorado River (as your rovin’ writer once did). Need information? Inquire at the Grand Canyon Village.

(Continued on next page)

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

The 15 best grand canyon viewpoints on the south rim, 21 of the cheapest places to visit in 2023, 14 best beach games to make your summer vacation more fun, leave a reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

EDITOR PICKS

The very best underrated european cities you need to visit , 33 underrated experiences to add to your bucket list , world’s best places to see the northern lights, popular posts, eat at these 13 unbelievably amazing restaurants in the world, 19 most romantic honeymoon destinations in the world, the 11 best cheap tropical vacations, popular category.

• Things To Do 286
• World Travel 247
• Travel Hacks 153
• North America 152
• Travel Deals 128
• California 53

Dizzying Walking Bridges Only For The Brave

20 things everyone should know prior to going on a cruise, 10 of the cheapest hotels in the world.

Here Is The One Place You Must See Before You Die In All 50 States

Massachusetts native. Freelance writer and strawberry eater.

More by this Author

Whether yours is hanging on the fridge or just in your head, everyone has a bucket list. For some of us, seeing as many different places in the world is the priority. For others, it’s traveling to each of the states in America. I believe both of these things are important to ensure I’ve had a well-traveled life, but I also think what we do in each spot is vital. Rather than simply checking something off a list, I love the idea of seeing the most beautiful places in each state . That might mean a waterfall, a valley, a monument, or a beach that seems to go on forever. The options are different in each region. But, one thing is for sure. The best places to visit in each state are certainly the most beautiful places in the country. Take a look at our list and start making your own must-see bucket list.

Related Stories

These 8 Swoon-Worthy Poolside Escapes Across The U.S. Scream Summer Indulgence

Here Are The 13 Best LGBTQIA+ Friendly Travel Destinations Across The U.S.

13 Bucket List-Worthy Hikes From Every Corner Of The United States

How many of these amazing places throughout the U.S. have you visited? If you’ve been to any that you love, we’d love to hear any tips or tricks you have for making sure a visit is as special as possible. Let us know of any must-visit restaurants, cafes, or side attractions in the comments. And, as you make your way through this list of places you might want to spend some long weekends in new regions. For that, we love the idea of a vacation rental .

Each of the spots on this list is great for a visit by car, but if you want to create a fun way to see the country you might also want to consider a train ride . that shows off some of the country’s prettiest landscapes.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Most beautiful places in each state.

What are the most beautiful small towns in the USA?

The most beautiful small towns in the USA are in every state, from California to Maine. Each one is worth exploring, but here are a few great options:

• Boothbay Harbor, Maine : This coastal town is home to beauty and history. It's the home of one of the state's most incredible botanical gardens, with special events throughout the year.
• Helen, Georgia : With Bavarian architecture and fun nature activities, this is the perfect town for families that have differing interests. Be sure to check out the river floating if you visit when it's warm outside.
• Bisbee, Arizona : Home to less than 5,000 people, Bisbee is an adorably fun place to visit. Enjoy the history here, then head out on one of the many nearby hikes.

To explore more small, beautiful towns in the USA consider enjoying two days in each of the top 23 spots .

What are the best road trips in the USA?

The best road trips in the USA offer lots of scenery and access to fun attractions. Here are a few of the best to put at the top of your list:

• The Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire : This road trip is less than 50 miles and offers twists and turns through the mountains that you'll love. Try to experience this drive in the autumn for truly incredible views.
• US Route 1, Florida : While Route One travels through more than just Florida, the 545 miles that make their way through the Sunshine State are absolutely some of the best.
• Going-To-The-Sun Road, Montana : Without a doubt, this is one of America's most scenic highways. And, the best part is that it goes right through Glacier National Park .

Related Articles

• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 12 Perfect Spots In The Midwest
• These 9 Caribbean Vacation Destinations Are An Easy Plane Ride From The U.S.
• Hand-Picked: 15 Father's Day Gifts For Dads Who Love To Travel
• 12 Camping Must-Haves That Will Make Your Next Road Trip A Breeze
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 12 Perfect Spots In The Northeast
• Hand-Picked: May's Best-Selling Travel Must-Haves That Will Make Summer Travel A Breeze
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 14 Perfect Spots In The Southwest
• We’re Dreaming Of A Waterfront Getaway And We Found 14 Perfect Spots In The Pacific Northwest

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things To Do Before You Die

The world is full of wonder and if you’re anything like me, you want to go out and explore! Check out my ultimate travel bucket list – 100 unmissable places to visit before you die. How many can you tick off?

By Julianna Barnaby and Sophie Ritchie

There are so many incredible places to see on this planet… but sometimes a bit of extra inspiration doesn’t hurt.

From incredible landscapes that make your eyes pop and your jaws drop, to incredible architecture – here is the ultimate travel bucket list. 100 places to see before you die.

After all, nothing says it better than this cool travel quote from Ray Bradbury.

“Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

1. grand canyon, usa.

They don’t call it Grand for nothing. The Grand Canyon is a huge, steep canyon, located in Arizona , carved by the Colorado River.

Let’s talk measurements for a second so you can get an idea of the scale of this natural wonder. 446km long and 29km wide.

I’m guessing that it’s already on your list of things to see before you die. If you’re up for the challenge, you can go and hike the whole thing … or simply see the scale of its beauty from one of the many lookouts.

These are especially beautiful to watch the sunrise and sunset from, so make sure you check the times before you go!

2. See The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible wonders.

A series of dancing lights that charge the night sky in pinks, greens, yellows and purples – seeing the Aurora Borealis is the ultimate travel bucket list item.

Cool northern lights-spotting destinations include Iceland , Norway , Alaska and northern Canada.

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

3. Giant’s Causeway, United Kingdom

he Giant’s Causeway is a stone formation made up of 40,000 basalt columns, located just off the coast of Antrim in Northern Ireland.

While scientists say that the formations were the result of a volcanic eruption, legend has it that the columns were a causeway built by a giant so that Scottish and Irish giants could meet and fight. I’m going to go with the latter – much more believable.

4. Bryce Canyon, USA

One of the US’s best-known national parks, Bryce Canyon is a collection of giant natural amphitheatres in southern Utah and one of the most beautiful natural landmarks I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. 

Designated a National Park in 1928, Bryce Canyon now receives nearly 2.5 million annual visitors to marvel at its red, orange and white rock formations.

5. Antelope Canyon, USA

Walking through the weird curved formations of Antelope Canyon , it’s difficult to believe that it’s not man made.

It’s not. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, located in Page, Arizona. Formed by the erosion of sandstone from the flash floods that occur in the area, it’s a must for any avid traveller. 

Photographers come from far and wide to get a glimpse of this beautiful orange, red and yellow canyon and the magical light filtered through the canyon’s shaped walls.

6. Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns, Iceland

The striking Reynisdrangar basalt columns on the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach are one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders (they have tough competition).

The columns were formed by volcanic activity – the same kind that created the Giant’s Causeway mentioned above.

Legend has it that they are three trolls, frozen in time by the sun’s rays. Sound familiar? That’s because Tolkien used the legend in his world-famous story The Hobbit.

7. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park is just incredible. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the northeast of California it’s well-known as one of America’s most beautiful travel destinations.

Want to know where to travel before you die? Start with Yosemite.

Granite cliffs, clear streams, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers – it’s no wonder that the famous photographer Ansel Adams loved it – and I bet you will too.

8. The Dead Sea, Israel / West Bank / Jordan

We all know that you can float on The Dead Sea. This curious natural wonder is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. It’s not actually a sea, despite its name, it’s a lake on the borders of Israel, the West Bank and Jordan .

The banks of the Dead Sea are over 400m below sea level, making them the lowest point in the world on dry land.

The easiest way to visit The Dead Sea is by taking a short-ish bus journey from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, alternatively you can rent a car and drive, though booking onto a tour makes things even easier.

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is no secret. Another place that’s arguably being loved to death, it’s enduringly beautiful.

The bay, which is located in Northeast Vietnam, stretches over 1500 square kilometres and is scattered with over 1600 islands and islets.

Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and rainforest-topped islands and a favourite among beauty-seekers.

10. Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

When it comes to bucket list places to visit, The Jeita Grotto is often forgotten about. It’s a set of two separate but interconnected limestone caves, located in the Nahr al-Kalb Valley in Lebanon. 

It can only be entered by boat as it channels an underground river, but once inside, visitors can see the incredible rock formations, and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

11. Acropolis, Greece

The Acropolis in Athens is an ancient citadel located on the top of a hill in Athens, which contains many ancient (and remains of) buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Acropolis is a greatly important symbol of Greek history, architecture and spirit and visiting it should have a prime spot on your travel bucket list.

12. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Take whatever you’ve heard about Angkor Wat, times it by 100 and yet it will still blow you away. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is just straight up incredible. 

Angkor Wat is a mystical complex of temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Angkor Wat also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world at 400 square kilometres – it’s made up of hundreds of incredible and awe inspiring temples and ruins.

If you need any more reason to believe you need to visit this special place, it even features on the country’s flag!

13. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Sounds like something that deserves a place on your bucket list right? Right.

But what exactly is Chichen Itza? Well only the biggest archaeological city of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilisation, located in the Yucatán State, Mexico .

Its huge pyramid, El Castillo, is the centre of the ancient city. Both were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1988.

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, everybody raves about it… but you know what? That’s because it is incredible. Machu Picchu is the old Inca City, located on top of a 2500m mountain in the Cusco region of Peru, just above the Sacred Valley.

Forgotten by the Western world for centuries, it was rediscovered by intrepid explorer Hiram Bingham. Machu Picchu was crowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (of course).

IMHO Machu Picchu is the best archaeological site in the South American continent, and definitely deserves to be at the top of your South America bucket list .

15. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Who hasn’t dreamt of jetting off to see the mysterious Pyramids of Giza ?

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the outskirts of Cairo Egypt. The complex contains 3 pyramids, a Great Sphinx Sculpture and several cemeteries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Egypt’s world-famous pyramids were built as a tomb for the pharaohs and their queens.

Now they’re one of the most recognisable (and photographed) structures in the world –  I fell head over heels for them after a recent visit to the country.

16. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument, located in Wiltshire, England. I’ll be completely honest, I’ve never really got why everyone goes so nuts about them… but I can never resist a cheeky detour when I’m on my way to Glastonbury Festival.

The 4 metre high collection of stones were constructed over time between 2500 and 5000 years ago, and are now one of the seven Wonders of the World. Druids and Pagans still use the site to celebrate important occasions such as the summer solstice.

17. The Colosseum, Italy

How about adding the largest amphitheatre ever built to your list of 100 places to see before you die? Yep, thought so.

The Colosseum is an old amphitheatre in the middle of Rome – it was built to hold up to 80,000 spectators.

Although over the years it has been partially ruined by earthquakes, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Rome, recognisable from around the world.

18. Bagan, Myanmar

Catapulted from a place very few people had heard of to one of the recent year’s travel hotspots, Bagan is a beautiful place. The ancient city in Myanmar is nicknamed the temple town, as it is home to 2,229 remaining temples and pagodas.

Most of these have been restored or preserved by UNESCO, and many contain incredible statues and carvings of Buddha – worth a visit in themselves. 

Head to the site early in the morning in the evening – you’ll see the most incredible Bagan sunrises and sunsets – preferably by hot air balloon.

19. Taj Mahal, India

Is it the most photographed building in the world? It’s certainly the best-known mausoleum.

The Taj Maha l is a white marble mausoleum, built in 1648 at the command of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, to remember his late wife.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the ornate Taj Mahal is a beautiful symbol of India and needs to be on any bucket list 100.

20. The Great Wall of China, China

China’s most famous landmark, The Great Wall of China is testament to the incredible building skills of civilisations past.

The “Great Wall” is actually a number of walls that run along the historical Northern borders of China, that were built to protect the Chinese against invasions from Eurasia.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it is the longest wall in the world – it’s even visible from space.

21. London, United Kingdom

London needs no introduction. This cosmopolitan capital is crammed with cool things to do and places to see and deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Dating back to Roman times, London is now home to a whopping nearly 9 million people… including the Royal Family.

Head here to see some of the world’s most famed attractions – Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and so many other pretty places to see in London , not to mention some of the most striking street art in the world and a plethora of brilliant restaurants.

Aside from tourist hot spots, London is filled with cool neighbourhoods well worth taking the time to explore – take Hackney, Shoreditch, Croydon, and Clapham, for example.

22. Paris, France

The City of Love – there’s a lot more to Paris than snuggling up for a cosy tete a tete with your other half.

Famed for its culture, art, cuisine and fashion, Paris has something for everyone – which explains why it’s on pretty much every bucket list 100 out there.

Whizz around between beautiful spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Treat yourself to some fancy accommodation and enjoy one of Europe’s most opulent cities.

23. Florence, Italy

Another one of Europe’s cultural hotspots, Florence is well-known for being the birthplace of beautiful Renaissance art and architecture.

Art lovers will rejoice in Florence, with magnificent works by Michaelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci on display at the Uffizi Gallery. 

But that’s not all there is to this dreamy Italian spot – the food is impeccable, the city is filled with family-run trattorias and gelato hotspots. Prepare to spend half your time eating, and the other half snapping photos.

Planning a trip? Check out the many world-famous Italian landmarks Florence boasts, such as Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and its ‘Duomo’, the Palazzo Vecchio, and Boboli Gardens. Then hop in a car to discover the rest of Tuscany on a road trip.

24. Rome, Italy

Ahh Rome , what a city. Every time you think you have seen it all, Rome comes up with something else to surprise you.

Full of architecture, art and ancient ruins, it’s known worldwide for its fashion and designer boutiques. Head to the Colosseum for some history, the Vatican for some culture and the Trevi Fountain to make a wish.

Don’t even get me started on the sheer number of brilliant eateries either…

25. Vienna, Austria

The capital of Austria, Vienna is a dream. This gorgeous city is known across Europe for its baroque art and architecture, and its musical and intellectual legacy. 

Some of Vienna’s most well known attractions are the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg, a complex of palaces.

Viennese cafe culture is also one of the best in Europe, so much so that UNESCO popped it on their intangible cultural heritage list. Head into one of Vienna’s very many cafes for a Viennese coffee and a slice of schokotorte.

26. Oxford, United Kingdom

Oxford is one of the UK’s most famous cities, thanks to its prestigious university (I studied there and it was just as incredible as you would imagine).

With the university dating back to the 11th century, Oxford is full of so many things to do – old architecture, beautiful scenery and tasty cuisine.

Head to Oxford to see the Museum of Natural History, the Oxford Botanic Gardens, and of course its prestigious university and its colleges.

27. Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s evocative capital is an unforgettable experience – there’s no way I’d leave it out of my pick of top 100 bucket list destinations. It’s been a while since I’ve visited but the sights and sounds of the city will always stay with me.

Gorgeous 16th-century architecture and vintage American cars , music and dance – not forgetting the delicious cuisine and daiquiris!

When you’re here, head to the Revolution Museum, Morro Castle and Old Havana, to see the best bits. It’s no wonder that Hemingway loved it – pop into El Floridita , his favourite bar.

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro may NOT be Brazil’s capital but it makes up for it with culture, looks and fun.

The first time I visited Rio, I was fresh-faced and 18 – several (and I mean several) years later, I’m just as in love with Rio as when I first clapped eyes on it.

This vibrant capital city is best known for its architecture, forest topped mountains and golden beaches. Some of Rio’s best sights are the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

29. Venice, Italy

Venice might be sinking but we still love it. In truth, it’s difficult to leave Venice out of any list of must-see travel spots, BUT it is suffering from serious overtourism, so you might want to skip it in favour of somewhere quieter.

Full of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, there are very few roads in Venice, mostly canals, with boats and gondolas to transport people. The best places to see are the Piazza San Marco, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge – just magical!

30. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is more than relaxed marijuana laws and chilled out coffee shops. Home to an impressive array of world-class museums, beautiful canals, gorgeous architecture and history.

Start by visiting the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, walk along the canals and spend some time exploring the city by bike.

Dutch food might not be much to write home about, but they sure know a thing or two about sweet things – make it your mission to scoff as many poffertjes and stroopwafel as possible. A bucket list travel must.

31. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The Iguazu Falls are waterfalls on the Iguazu River that border Misiones, the Argentinian province, Paraná, the Brazilian state and Paraguay. At 82 metres high and the chain of falls nearly 3km long, they are the largest waterfalls system in the world.

Think the view can’t be better? Wait until you hear their astoundingly loud roar – sight and sound – it’s almost deafening, and an absolute thrill.

32. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe / Zambia

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, in southern Africa. 

Described by CNN as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the water at the Victoria Falls drops a staggering 108m, and is the largest curtain of water in the world.

The easiest way to visit is to fly to Livingstone, the nearest airport – from there it’s around 11km to the falls via a taxi.

Or, if you would really like to treat yourself (I approve), view the falls from above during a helicopter flight over the natural landmark. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

33. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

The Niagara Falls are a set of three impressive waterfalls that border Ontario, Canada, and New York State in the US. The three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, all fall at the southern end of the Niagara gorge, and have a total height of 51m.

As the most famous falls in the world, Niagara is something that you’ve got to see. If you’re feeling brave, jump on one of the boat tours which take you up close and personal to the falls.

34. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, China / Vietnam

The Ban Gioc–Detian Falls are a set of two waterfalls on the Quây Sơn River, on the border of China and Vietnam.

The main waterfall is the Detian waterfall, and the other waterfall is the Ban Gioc Waterfall, with the cumulative drop being a whopping 60m.

You can hop on a boat, which will take you on a river tour close to the falls for an extra-special experience.

35. Palouse Falls, USA

The Palouse Falls is a waterfall on the Palouse River, 6km up from the meeting with the Snake River, in southeast Washington in the United States.

The falls consist of an upper falls and a lower falls, which are drops of 6.1m and 60m respectively. Bring your hiking boots and set off on one of the numerous trails around the top and the bottom of the falls.

36. Shoshone Falls, USA

Shoshone Falls is a waterfall on the Snake River in Southern Idaho. Known as the ‘Niagara of the West’, the falls are 65m high (which is actually higher than Niagara) and flow over a 300m wide rim.

Formed over 14,000 years ago, the Shoshone Falls attract up to 300,000 vehicles per year, and are definitely worth a spot on your ultimate bucket list. Bring a picnic and grab a spot in one of the designated areas for a fabulous day out.

37. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

Blue Nile Falls is a waterfall on the Blue Nile River, located in the north of Ethiopia. Known as ’Tis Abay’ in Amharic, meaning ‘great smoke’, the Falls are approximately 40 metres high, consisting of four streams.

This beautiful waterfall is one of Ethiopia’s top tourist attractions – just get ready for a hike to get the best views of the falls.

38. Gullfoss, Iceland

It’s hard to pick one waterfall from Iceland for our list, but Gullfoss can’t be missed. Gullfoss, meaning ‘Golden Waterfall’ is a waterfall located in the Olfusa River canyon, in Southwest Iceland.

The name comes from the golden colour of the waterfall in certain light – the result of sediment in the water.

The total height of Gullfoss is 32 metres and the longest drop is 21 metres. The beautiful waterfall offers brilliant views and we recommend going to see it on a sunny day, as there’s a big chance of seeing a rainbow shimmering over the falls.

Otherwise it’s a spectacular place to see the Northern Lights in the winter.

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

39. McWay Falls, USA

The McWay Falls are a waterfall that flows from McWay Creek in picture-perfect Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park onto a beach in Big Sur on the west coast of California.

The image of the 24m McWay Falls cascading onto the beach is one of Big Sur’s most iconic and something you can’t miss. The hike to the falls is rather easy and boasts some of Big Sur’s best views.

40. The Maldives

The Maldives are a set of South Asian islands, located in the Indian ocean. Made up of 26 atolls, ring shaped coral reefs together containing over 1000 coral islands.

People come from far and wide for The Maldives’ beautiful islands, luxury accommodation, azure waters, and colourful marine life.

If you love beaches, watersports or simply soaking up the views of one of the most beautiful places on this planet, the Maldives should be on your list.

41. Vava’u Islands

The Vava’u islands are a set of islands, one large and 40 small, located in Tonga in the South Pacific. Neiafu, the capital of these islands, is a gorgeous destination well worth exploring – make sure to visit the striking St Joseph’s Cathedral.

Looking for spectacular things to do before you die?

This tropical paradise has crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and beautiful sea life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, spinner dolphins and Humpback whales – a wildlife lover’s paradise!

42. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek Island in the Southern Aegean Sea.

Known as the ‘supermodel’ of the Greek Islands, it is instantly recognisable by its whitewashed buildings with blue roofs, multicoloured cliffs, beautiful sunsets and dazzlingly sapphire coloured waters.

There’s so much to do in Santorini including exploring Akrotiri’s ruins and chilling on Kamari’s black sand beach. You might have to battle the crowds, but it’s totally worth it.

43. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific, Northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia.

Being Tahiti’s most famous island, it is popular with the luxury crowd thanks to its fabulous hotels.

Bora Bora is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, which is fabulous for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

44. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island and province of Indonesia, popular among backpackers travelling Southeast Asia but also with a luxury side, full of beautiful beaches, incredible food , culture scenery and wildlife.

Known for its surfing, yoga , diving and great resorts, the ‘essence of Bali’, and its traditions have stolen the hearts of many visitors.

45. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

An archipelago in Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is known as both a beach lover’s shangri-la and an eco-wonderland. Built on volcanic rock, the coastline is as ragged as it is beautiful.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this paradise is full of pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and stunning wildlife. Apparently, even the sharks are friendly.

46. Maui, USA

Maui is an island which is part of the state of Hawaii, known for its natural beauty. It is Hawaii’s second-largest island, at 1,883 square kilometres. 

Known as the ‘Valley Isle’, Maui is famed for its world-famous beaches, the Iao Valley, humpback whales, and the marvellous sunset and sunrise from Haleakala. 

There are so many things to do in Maui with kids , as there are for a couple travelling alone.

47. Big Sur, USA

Big Sur is a stretch of California’s central coast. Forever linked with beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Big Sur tops the list of many literary lovers’ travel bucket lists – but there’s more to its appeal than that.

Driving through Big Sur on a Highway 1 road trip is very popular, with beautiful places to stop and look out, such as Bixby Bridge and the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the picturesque McWay Falls (see our pick of top 10 waterfalls for your bucket list) meets the sandy shore and drifts into the Ocean.

48. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, located off the East Coast in the Gulf of Thailand. 

Ko Samui is home to lush rainforest, coconut palms and some of the most spectacular beaches in Thailand, such as Bang Por, Choeng Mon and Taling Nam, which is incredible for watching the sunset on.

49. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is a province of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It is home to some of the best beaches and islands in Southeast Asia, such as Railay Beach , with incredible rock formations making it a climbers paradise, and the Phi Phi Islands, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘The Beach’ was filmed.

With white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that Krabi is at the top of most visitors’ lists of things to see when they’re in Thailand.

50. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is a desert located in Chile , South America and is one of the most surreal places on the planet.

The desert covers a 1000 square km area of land and is one of the driest places on Earth. Mars-like valleys, brightly coloured lakes, swarms of flamingos and the Southern hemisphere’s largest geyser field – if you’re heading to the Atacama desert, you’d better prepare to have your mind blown.

Check out my guide to road-tripping in the Atacama Desert.

51. Bolivia Salt Flats

The Bolivia Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) are located in the Potosí province in the southwest of Bolivia – not far from the Atacama Desert.

At 10,582 square km and placed 3,656m above sea level, they are the largest salt flats in the world. This incredible natural wonder was originally caused by the transformations of several prehistoric lakes, which are now covered by a few metres of salt crust.

52. Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is located in Patagonia, Chile. It is known for its beautiful mountains, blue icebergs and glaciers, and lush vegetation.

If you’re fit enough to take on the challenge, hiking the five day W trail should be on your list of things to do before you die – feeling even more adventurous? The 8-day O trek is for you.

The stunning Torres, after which the park is named, is the main attraction of the park, and over 250,000 visitors come to marvel at them every year. It’s honestly one of the most incredible places I’ve visited and well worth the hype.

53. Lake District, UK

The Lake District i s a mountainous area in Cumbria, in the north west of England, whose mountains, lakes and forests stretch over a huge 2,362 square km.

Boasting plenty of hikes and ways to reconnect with nature, this is a popular holiday destination for British tourists. 

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, and also the deepest and longest bodies of water in England – most definitely worth a trip.

54. Mù Cang Chả, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chả is a rural district located at the bottom of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in the northwest of Vietnam, in the Yên Bái Province.

It is home to incredible landscapes and perfectly-landscaped rice paddies – the Mù Cang Chả Rice Terrace has been recognised as one of the most unique landscapes in Vietnam, stretching across 22 square km of the mountainside.

Seeing the bright green paddies in real life is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of any trip to Vietnam.

55. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in Namibia, and encompasses part of the Namib Desert.

The Namib Desert is the world’s oldest desert, and Namib-Naukluft is the fourth-largest game park in the world. Wonderful creatures such as snakes, hyenas and geckos reside in the stunning signature red and orange sand.

56. Paro Valley, Bhutan

The Paro Valley is a lush valley located in western Bhutan. The historic town is full of culture, history and sacred sites, and the wide and richly vegetated Valley is one of Bhutan’s must-see sights. 

If you’re visiting the valley, you have to make a stop at Paro Taktsang which is tucked into the side of a cliff. It’s nicknamed the Tiger’s Nest Buddhist Temple and known one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan.

57. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Full of beautiful old Italian villas, farms, wineries and lush vegetation, it’s a beautiful location to visit. As I’ve already mentioned, Florence, the capital of the region, is filled with so many things for art-lovers to do.

Though it’s the gently rolling hills and green vineyards that make up a stunning landscape worthy of a postcard and a spot on your bucket list. Other must-visit towns include Montepulciano, Greve in Chianti, Montalcino and San Gimignano.

Travels Through Tuscany – the Ultimate Road Trip

59. Uluru, Australia

Uluru (previously known as Ayers Rock) is a large sandstone rock formation, located in the north central region of Australia, that rises 350 metres up away from its surrounding land.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Uluru is home to beautiful waterholes, springs and rock caves.

One of Australia’s indigenous tribes most sacred sites, you can no longer hike onto the rock itself, but can still soak up its spiritual presence from up close.

60. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso, located in the region of Liguria in Italy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area is full of colourful houses and vineyards and a beautiful blue harbour.

I’m betting it’s one of the most photographed places in Italy, but once you go, you can easily see why. Gorgeous views, even better wine, and a chilled-out pace of life – what’s not to love?

61. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the free-standing bell tower of Italy’s Pisa Cathedral. Built in 1372 at 56 metres tall, the tower is famed for its unintended tilt – the result of the soft ground on which it was built.

Head to the tower, take the obligatory selfie (or three – don’t miss the one where you pretend to push it over!) but don’t forget to explore the rest of this charming city, which is surprisingly quiet once you get away from the big sights.

62. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

The Golden Gate Bridge is a 1,280m suspension bridge that links San Francisco with Marin County in Western California. Built in 1937 for a huge $35 million, since opening it has become an icon of San Francisco and the most photographed bridge in the world.

Hike through the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge Park to the bottom of the bridge for a different view of this iconic bridge.

63. Eiffel Tower , Paris

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower, located on the Champ de Mars, in Paris, France. The engineer Gustave Eiffel, designed the tower and then his company built it in 1889.

With a total height of 324m, the instantly recognisable Eiffel Tower is synonymous with the city of love. Head up to the top for amazing views out over the city.

64. Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil . Built in 1931 by four men, Landowski, da Silva Costa, Caquor and Leonida, the 30 metre symbol of Rio sits atop of the Corcovado Mountain, looking over the city.

You can access the statue via a tough hike through the Tijuca rainforest, or via a tram or collectivo.

Whichever way you get there, the view of the city spread out below and of the statue itself is one of Rio’s real highlights.

65. The Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial group of islands in Dubai , United Arab Emirates, located on the Jumeirah coast. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about things to do before you die, but it’s well worth the trip.

Taking 5 years to build from 2001 to 2006, the Palm is now full of luxury hotels, restaurants and residences. In keeping with Dubai’s reputation for glitz and glamour, a trip to The Palm Jumeirah is one for the luxury-lovers among you.

The island is also home to arguably the best water park in Dubai – spend a day cooling off and seeking thrills at the Atlantis Aquaventure.

66. St Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

St Basil’s Cathedral is located in Red Square, Moscow, Russia. Built in 1561, this world-famous and colourful landmark was inspired by the flame from a bonfire rising into the sky.

Officially called ‘The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat’, this 48m high building is a totally bonkers but beautiful creation that’s guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

67. Sydney Opera House, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is an arts venue, located at Bennelong Point in the middle of the Sydney Harbour, Australia. Built in 1973, the Opera House became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The picturesque sail design of the house with the Sydney Harbour Bridge behind it is the iconic image of Sydney and a must-do on your Australia bucket list.

68. Statue of Liberty, USA

The Statue of Liberty is a sculpture of ‘Lady Liberty’, located on Liberty Island in the harbour in New York City.

The statue shows Lady Liberty holding a torch and a book with roman numerals of the date of the US Declaration of Independence.

Designed by Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the statue was dedicated to the US people from France in 1886.

The statue used to be the first sight of New York for those sailing into the city in days gone by, the boat trip to see  the statue is no less striking today.There is so much to enjoy in New York with various attractions, shopping and rooftop restaurants in New York .

69. Big Ben, United Kingdom

Big Ben (a nickname for the clock on the Elizabeth Tower), is a tower at the end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England.

Ever since it was built in 1859, it has been a British cultural icon, and is the most prominent symbol of London and the United Kingdom.

Big Ben is currently undergoing renovation works, but you can still take a peek at the Houses of Parliament below.

Want an extra-special view? Take one of the numerous boat cruises that float down the Thames for picture opps without the crowds.

70. Empire State Building, USA

The Empire State Building is a skyscraper, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City (between West 33rd and 34th streets to be precise).

The 102 storey building is not only a work office, but also has a viewing deck at the top where visitors can see the whole of the city.

The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City, and was designated the status of a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Book your ticket and get whisked up to the top for spectacular views out over the city.

71. Mount Everest, China / Nepal

Mount Everest, located in the Mahalangur range of the Himalayas, is the highest mountain on Earth at 8,848 m, with the border between China and Nepal running across its summit.

Since it was first climbed in 1953, Mount Everest has attracted keen climbers from all over, with two main climbing routes, one starting in southeast Nepal and the other in the north of Tibet in China – do you dare to rise to the challenge?

Just how tough is it to climb Mount Everest?

72. Rainbow Mountain Peru

Mount Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain , is a mountain in the Andes in Cusco, Peru.  

With its highest peak at 5,200m, Vinicunca is full of desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks and lots of alpacas!

Though South America isn’t short on a hike or two, this one comes with close-up views of the multi-coloured mountains and its picturesque surroundings.

73. Matterhorn, Switzerland

The Matterhorn is located in the Swiss Alps. At 4,478 m, it is one of the largest mountains in Europe and the Alps. Surrounded by glaciers, the Matterhorn is an incredibly beautiful site, with an almost symmetrical peak.

Skilled mountaineers can climb to the top of the mountain, but even if that’s not you, we pretty much guarantee you’ll be blown away by views of the mountain up close.

74. Fitz Roy, Argentina / Chile

Mount Fitz Roy is a mountain in Patagonia, located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field near El Chaltén on the border of Argentina and Chile .

First climbed in 1952, today it still remains one of the most challenging climbs on Earth with its highest point at 3,405 m.

Not quite up to the challenge? You can hike to the base of the mountain from El Chalten without too much difficulty.

75. K2, China / Pakistan

K2, also known as Mount Godwin Austen, is the second highest mountain in the world, at 8611 metres high, located on the border between China and Pakistan.

Not many dare to climb K2 as it is so dangerous. K2 is sometimes called the ‘Savage Mountain’, with a terrifying one out of four climbers never making it back.

76. Table Mountain, South Africa

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town in South Africa . The mountain is just over 1,085 metres tall and 3km from either side.

Visitors either hike up to the top or get the cable-car up (hint: do the hike, it’s awesome). Once at the top, the sweeping views of the city are incredible.

Cape Town is often chosen as one of the most spectacular cities in the world, and the views from Table Mountain give you a good idea why.

77. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is Canada’s national playground. Forming part of the Rockies National Park, Canada’s first national park, Banff’s highest peak is Bonnet Peak at 3,235 m.

The beautiful snow capped mountains surrounded by lush green forests and charming lakes are too tempting not to explore – doing so should be on your list of things to do before you die.

78. Mount Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan is a mountain range is the Anhui Province in Eastern China, with its top height reaching 1,864 metres. Mount Huangshan and its surrounding area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, lush vegetation and incredible views.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Mount Huangshan is known as ‘the loveliest mountain in China’. Even more reason to see it with your own eyes.

79. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in north west Africa. Their highest peak is Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 metres high and located in Morocco.

Its lush valleys, snow-capped peaks and traditional Berber villages make trekking in the Atlas Mountains a fantastic experience.

The Atlas Mountains are a relatively short trip from Marrakech and well deserving of a detour from the charming city.

80. Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc (meaning ‘White Mountain) is located in the Graian Alps, which run between France and Italy.

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and in Europe at 4,808m, and is very popular for hiking, mountaineering, snowboarding and skiing.

Seasoned skiers and snowboarders can hike up and ski or board down in the summer months – beware, the hike up is pretty tough.

81. Yellowstone SuperVolcano, USA

Yellowstone Super Volcano is located in the ethereal Yellowstone National Park , in the northwest of Wyoming, US.

Known for its super-volcanoes, crazily coloured lakes and ever-faithful geysers, Yellowstone might well be the US national park highest on your list of things to do before you die (though maybe Yosemite beats it to the first spot).

82. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

Popocatépetl Volcano is an active volcano located in the Mexico, Puebla and Morelos states in Central Mexico.

At 5,426m high, it is the second-tallest peak in Mexico. You can visit the park surrounding the volcano from Mexico City – bear in mind that it is an active volcano, so you should check before you set out.

83. Mount Vesuvius, Italy

Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Naples, in Campania, Italy. The 1,280m volcano is best known for its eruption in 79AD that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, and being the most densely populated volcanic region in the world.

However, despite the risk, the sight of the beautiful volcano standing tall over the city of Naples is truly amazing. You can undertake the hike to the top independently, or go on a guided hike to take advantage of the local knowledge.

84. Mount Etna, Italy

Mount Etna is a volcano between Messina and Cantania, in Sicily, Italy. At 3,330m high, it is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and Italy’s highest peak south of the Alps. Although it is one of the world’s most active volcano sites, in 2013 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty.

It’s a tough trek to the top, but the views once you get there are worth the sweat.

85. Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on Honshu Island, in the Southwest of Japan. At 3,770 metres tall, it is the highest mountain in Japan.

The mountain is one of Japan’s sacred sites – it’s not unusual for people to make a pilgrimage trek to the top.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, UNESCO has also recognised 25 locations within the Mount Fuji locality to be sites of cultural interest – meaning there’s plenty for you to do when you tick this one off your bucket list.

86. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones, located in the Kilimanjaro National Park in East Tanzania, Africa.

At 5,895 metres above sea level, it is the highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s best-known adventure spots and the hike to the top is a once in a lifetime experience.

87. Mauna Loa, USA

Mauna Loa is an active volcano located in Hawaii, United States. It’s considered to be the Earth’s largest volcano with an impressive 75,000 cubed km volume.

Although Mauna Loa has been erupting for at least 700,000 years and still erupts today, the eruptions are very fluid and tend to be non-explosive, so it is a very safe area to visit.

It’s a tough hike, even by Hawaiian standards, but when else will you get to climb the world’s largest volcano?

88. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia, and is part of the Tengger massif, a volcano complex.

Sitting in the middle of a plain of sand, the beautiful 2300m volcano provides visitors with unparalleled views, which can be reached by taking a 2 hour walk to the top. Head up at night to catch sunrise at the top – an unforgettable experience.

89. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

Thrihnukagigur Volcano is a dormant volcano near Reykjavík, Iceland, that covers 3,270 square metres and is 213m deep.

Opening to tourists in 2012, it is the only volcano in the world where you can take a lift down into the magma chamber. Such an incredible sight is totally deserving of a spot on your bucket list.

90. Mount Helen, USA

Mount Helen is an active volcano located in Skamania County in Washington State, United States – less than 100 miles away from Seattle. Mount St Helens is well known for its ash explosions and flows of gas and volcanic matter, especially during the notorious 1980 eruption.

The huge volcano is located in the Cascade Range which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a group of 452 active volcanoes dotted around the rim of the Pacific, all prone to eruption.

There are more than 200 miles of trails in the surrounding area – allowing you to see a different side of the volcano on two feet.

91. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is a game reserve in Narok County in Kenya, Africa, that neighbours the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

It is famous for its wonderful animals and wildlife, including African leopards and Kenyan cheetahs, Masai lions, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and over 470 species of bird. It is perfect for the animal lover.

Heading on a safari into the Masai Mara is one of the most popular travel bucket list ideas – when are you going to tick it off yours?

92. Amazon Rainforest, South America

The Amazon Rainforest is a rainforest that expands over Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, in South America.

The whole thing encompasses a huge 7 million square kilometres, and is home to 16,000 species of 390 billion trees, 2.5 million insect species and 2,000 mammal and bird species.

Eco-friendly luxury lodges, steamer boat cruises, incredible hikes – the only problem you’ll have when it comes to planning your trip to the Amazon is how much you can fit into the time you have.

93. The Serengeti, Tanzania / Kenya

The Serengeti is a region in Africa, expanding over northern Tanzania and in the south of Kenya, over 30,000 square kilometres.

The Serengeti is renowned for its large lion population, including 70 large mammal species, such as buffalos and gazelles, and 500 bird species, as well as a range of surroundings with everything from swamps to grasslands.

Book a safari for an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

94. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of islands located in the Pacific Ocean over the Equator, such that the islands are in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere.

The islands are well known for their wildlife that are unique to just them, including giant tortoises, Galapagos finches and penguins, Galapagos hawks, fur seals and blue-footed boobies.

Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and see the islands in their full glory on a several-day boat tour.

95. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast in Queensland, Australia.

The reef system, which stretches over a nearly 350,000 square kilometre area, comprises over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, this colourful place is home to millions of creatures, including dolphins, whales, fish, turtles and birds. 

On a sourer note, the Great Barrier Reef is being destroyed due to climate change, so who knows how much longer it will be around for? This beautiful place deserves a top spot on your list of things to do before you die.

96. Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Island is a 390 square kilometre island, located in the middle of the Flores Sea and part of the Republic of Indonesia.

Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this beautiful island is home to many species, including Javan deer, water buffalo and the 3km long Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth.

Komodo Dragons are notoriously dangerous but spying them in their natural habitat is a memorable experience.

97. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park might not be South Africa’s best-known safari destination (that title has to go to Kruger), but it’s the one I loved the most.

Tucked away in the beautiful Addo region in the Eastern Cape, the Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big Seven (the big five plus Southern Whales and Great White Sharks) thanks to its ocean territory.

Safari in Addo Elephant National Park

98. The Danum Valley, Malaysia

The Danum Valley is located in Sabah Forest, Borneo, Malaysia . The 438 square kilometre Conservation Area is known for its Bornean orangutans, gibbons, 270 species of bird and the rare East Sumatran rhinos.

People come from all over to see these special creatures, and it is definitely worth a spot on your bucket list.

99. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island is an island off the coast of South Australia. The island is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including the Kangaroo Island Kangaroo, the Tammar Wallaby and Rosenberg’s Sand Goanna, which are all native to the island, as well as non-native creatures such as sea lions and koalas.

Visit the island to experience its wild and rugged beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities galore.

100. Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert is a savanna in Southern Africa that extends for over 900,000 square kilometres over Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.

The Kalahari Desert is home to hundreds of exotic species of animals including brown hyenas, meerkats, the Kalahari lion, and many species of reptiles and birds.

A trip to the Kalahari is like stepping into another universe – one that will provide you will snaps (and memories) you’ll never forget.

There we are, 100 places for your travel bucket list. How many have you ticked off?

Looking For More Ideas for Your Bucket List?

• 100 Places to Visit in Europe You Shouldn’t Miss
• 100 Places to Visit in South America – The South America Bucket List
• UK Bucket List Ideas 

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest!

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

20 Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Embark on an Epic Journey Through Westeros

The Cheapest Travel Destinations for Your Luxury Trip

17 Most Beautiful Countries in the World: Epic Scenery and Unforgettable Landscapes

Where to Find The World’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls (And How to See Each One)

I alway love these kinds of lists. But “100” is an arbitrary number. Better to list the top things and get a list as long or short as it turns out to be. A few conspicuous omissions from the list: Antarctica; Madagascar’s Spiny Forest; slave forts of Ghana; underground stone-carved churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia; the palace complex and surrounds in Bangkok; and maybe the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. List should include a section on tribal people and unique cultures such as the tribes of the Omo Valley in SE Ethiopia and the Inuit of Canada, etc.; famous scenic train trips; best rivers & fjords to navigate. Nevertheless, a fun list! Have seen 61 of these, plan to see 15 still on my list. 23 others are nice but I don’t plan to see. 4 of them I have no interest in. (Been to a number of the countries the items are in, but not to see the listed items.)

Thanks for the suggestions – some really interesting ones there – if we update the piece, we’ll be sure to take your additions on board.

Colosseum is in Italy, not Greece (number 19), though it does mention Rome.

Great spot – obviously a typo slipped in there. Clearly meant to say Italy as I reference Rome 4 times in the para.

Um. Yosemite, then out to Hwy 395 in the Eastern Sierra of CA.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

The Smithsonian Life List: 43 Places to See Before You Die

From wonders of the world to thrills for adventure seekers, we’ve compiled a list of sites that any true world traveler cannot miss

Smithsonian magazine

Go to http://microsite.smithsonianmag.com/content/lifelist/

Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.

• Australia & NZ
• South America
• Family Vacation
• Solo Traveler
• Weekend Trips

9 Very British Things to Do in London You Won’t Find…

Top Things to do in Istanbul: Travel Guide to this Wonderful…

Featured Traveler : Jenny MacLean, an Adventurous Sun Seeker and a…

Travel Story : Fran Avila Yearned for the Freedom that Travel…

Travel Story : Benifer Gandhi Shares Her Hyderabad Travel Experience &…

Top Things to do in Santorini – Travel Guide to this…

Featured Travel Couple : Omer & Madeline, A Husband and Wife…

Featured Travel Couple : Annette & Daniel Sold All Their Stuff,…

Travel Story : Christopher Corless, Just 25 And Traveled Over 80…

Featured Traveler : Diana Nagy, the Determined Dreamer

Top Things to do in Mykonos: Travel Guide to this Wonderful…

21 Top Things to Do in Paris – Travel Guide

Travel Light – 18 Things You Don’t Need in Your Travel…

• Travel Ideas
• Travel Inspiration

51 Breathtaking Places To Visit Before You Die

This world is full of beautiful attractions both natural and man-made to visit in this lifetime. From historical sights to natural landmarks to wildlife, there is a lot to explore all over the world. Obviously, one life is not enough to experience all the beautiful places in the world, but at least you can visit some of the most amazing ones before you die. Therefore, if you are a traveler who loves to explore new places then see below our list of 51 most amazing places to visit before you die.

Top Must Visit Attractions Around the World – Places To Visit Before You Die

1 antelope canyon, usa.

Antelope Canyon tops our list of best places to visit before you die. You can book a tour and experience this stunning place with your friends and family.

2 Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

One of the major attractions of Thailand is Phi Phi Islands. Located between Phuket and Malacca coast, this group of islands attract millions of visitors every year.

3 Santorini, Greece

Santorini is another stunning attraction which one must visit in lifetime. It features multicolored cliffs topped by the whitewashed buildings, volcanic sand beaches and spectacular sunsets.

4 Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

Located in Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat. This salt flat was formed as a result of lakes which were evaporated long time ago. Every year, millions of tourists visit this natural landmark and it should definitely be on your list of places to visit before you die.

5 The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Located in Gaza, Egypt; these pyramids attract millions of tourists each year who visit this place to witness the ancient landmark.

6 Istanbul, Turkey

Straddling Asia and Europe, Istanbul is one of the most popular tourist attractions full of stunning islands, hundreds of years old mosques, Ottoman palaces and vibrant markets. Add Istanbul to your bucket list of places to visit before you die.

7 Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Located in Northeastern side of Australia, Great Barrier Reef is the world’s most famous and largest coral reef. The Reef is home to a number of fishes, turtles, sharks and dolphins. Visit this place and enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, helicopter scenic tours, cruise ship and many other activities.

8 Sea of Stars, Maldives

Vadhoo Island in Maldives features the magical sea of stars. This sea is full of bioluminescence that looks like stars glowing at night. This surreal place deserves a spot on your list of places to visit before you die.

9 Portofino, Italy

Portofino is a beautiful fishing village located in Southeast of Genoa, Italy. It is famous for its colored houses, boutiques, restaurant and surreal views and should be included in places to visit before you die.

10 Jellyfish Lake, Eli Malik, Palau

Palau’s unique Jellyfish Lake has been on the bucket list of travelers from all around the world. Visit this place and experience snorkeling with the stunning golden jellyfishes.

11 The Twelve Apostles, Australia

Located along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, the Twelve Apostles are one of the major highlights of Australia. These are a collection of limestone pillars surrounded by breathtaking views. Definitely one of the best places to visit before you die!

12 Waitomo Glowworm Caves, New Zealand

Be amazed by thousands of glowworms above you as you ride in your boat through this stunning cave.

13 Grand Canyon National Park, USA

Grand Canyon National Park features the stunning red rocks which are hundreds of years old. You can view this ancient landmark through a number of ways; helicopter, airplane and bus. Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders in the world which you should not miss.

14 Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti in Tanzania is the world’s most treasured ecosystem. Famous for its wildlife, this place attracts a large number of visitors every year. It is home to many animals including elephants, giraffes, elands, impalas and the big cats.

15 Lavender Fields, France

Do you want to witness stunning and fragrant lavender fields? Then you should visit the Provence in France. Provence features some of the most beautiful lavender fields from early July to beginning of August. Visit this place and have a memorable experience before you die!

16 Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is a historical region in Anatolia, Turkey which is famous for cone-shaped stunning rock formations and fairy chimneys. This place also features a number of underground cities. Visit this stunning place and enjoy guided tours and hot air balloon ride to witness its beauty to the fullest.

17 Moraine Lake, Canada

Moraine Lake is considered as one of the top lakes in the world. This surreal lake is located in Banff National Park in Canada and you should visit this at least once in your lifetime before you die.

18 Taj Mahal, India

Taj Mahal depicts a unique love story of Shah Jahan and his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Shah Jahan built this stunning monument in the memory of his wife. Located in Agra in India, Taj Mahal attracts millions of tourist from all over the world.

19 Petra, Jordan

Petra in Jordan is a popular archaeological site dating back to 300 B.C. featuring a number of tombs, temples and cliffs. You can access this stunning site through a narrow canyon.

20 The Great Wall, China

The Great Wall of China is one of the famous wonders of the world which is also listed in World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. You should visit this place with your friends and family at least for once before you die.

21 Amazon Rainforest, South America

Amazon Rainforest is the world’s largest rainforest famous for its thousands of species including plants, fishes, mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians.

22 Machu Picchu, Peru

Built in 15 th  century in Peru, Machu Picchu is an ancient site which stands around 2400 m above the sea level and is one of the most stunning attractions in the world. Visit this stunning attraction with your loved ones before you die.

23 Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Located in Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is a group of 3 volcanic cones. It is the highest mountain in Africa and definitely should be on your wish list of places to visit before you die.

24 Benagil Cave, Algarve, Portugal

Benagil Cave is the stunning rock formation of Portugal. You can enjoy a boat tour to this place which will also take you to many other stunning caves in the area.

25 Ephesus, Turkey

Turkey is full of stunning historical sites and one of the major highlights is Ephesus which used to be an ancient Greek city. You’ll be amazed to see how wonderful this city from 10 th  century B.C. still looks.

26 Venice, Italy

Do you want to travel to a city where there are no roads? Then travel to Venice which is built on more than 100 islands. This romantic place features stunning canals where you can enjoy gondola rides with your better half.

27 Bagan, Myanmar

Built in 9 th  century, Bagan is an ancient city which features more than 2,000 monuments. It is worth a visit before you die.

28 Hang Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

Vietnam is full of natural attractions and one of them is Hang Son Doong Cave. Visit this place and have a memorable experience of your lifetime.

29 Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan

Visit the Hitachi Seaside Park in spring season in Japan and witness the gorgeous flowers blooming all over the park.

30 Tianzi Mountain, China

Located in the Hunan Province of China, Tianzi Mountain is one of the most beautiful attractions in the world. Visit this might mountain which was formed around 400 million years ago.

31 Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge is a historic monument that is located in England. It consists of a group of standing stones which are around 13 feet high. This historic site attracts a large number of tourists every year.

32 Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is a largest religious monument in the world. This temple is a major highlight of Cambodia and is a source of their pride.

33 Niagara Falls, USA/Canada

Niagara Falls is the name given for the three waterfalls that are present at the international border between Canada and the United States. The 3 falls together form the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. You can reach there via Buffalo, USA or from Toronto, Canada.

34 Whitehaven Beach, Australia

Australia is full of beautiful beaches and islands. One of them is Whitehaven Beach which consists of pure white sand and clear blue water. Located in Whitsunday Island, this beach is only accessible by helicopter, seaplane or boat.

35 Tunnel of Love, Ukraine

Tunnel of Love in Ukraine is a 1.8 mile long train tunnel. Lovers visit this tunnel to make a wish and even for photo shoots. If you are in Ukraine, then don’t miss this stunning passageway.

36 Trolltunga, Norway

Trolltunga is a one of the most stunning cliffs situated around 1100 meters above the sea level in Norway. You can visit this place and enjoy the surreal views in the surrounding or you can even do camping on the edge of the rock formation.

37 Mendenhall Ice Caves of Juneau, Alaska

Mendenhall Ice Caves are inside the Mendenhall Glacier which is around 12 mile long. The stunning ice caves are only accessible through kayaking.

38 Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

Eilean Castle is one of the most spectacular castles in Scotland. It is located on an island surrounded by the mountains. If you are into historical castles, then mention this place in your list of places to visit before you die.

39 Mount Roraima, Venezuela

Mount Roraima in Venezuela is one of the oldest mountains of earth dating back to more than billion years ago. This magnificent mountain is situated 1200 feet above the floor and includes the borders of Venezuela, Brazil and Guyana.

40 Skaftafell Ice Cave, Iceland

Iceland is a land full of breathtaking locations attracting millions of people each year. Located in Vatnajokull Glacier region, Skaftafell Ice Cave should be on your travel list of places to visit before you die. Book your tour in advance and enjoy the most beautiful experience inside the cave. For more information on Iceland visit our blog

41 Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

Located in Moscow, Russia, Saint Basil’s Cathedral is the most popular colorful Cathedral. If you plan to visit Russia, than you should visit this place before you die. Make sure to take your camera with you as this cathedral is too beautiful to not take photos.

42 Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The Blue Lagoon is the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland. Located in the breathtaking setting, this place is the major highlight of Iceland attractions.

43 Waterfall Castle, Poland

This stunning waterfall castle is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Poland. If you are a traveler who loves to visit new places, then this should be on your bucket list.

44 Faroe Islands

Faroe Islands is my current favorite place which I also want to visit before I die and you should visit it too. You should visit this place and experience its breathtaking beauty.

45 Udaipur, India

Udaipur is known for its artificial lakes and royal residence which you will find all around the city. It is also known as “Venice of East” due to its beauty and historical monuments.

46 Kakslauttanen Glass Igloos, Finland

Do you want to spend a night in igloos? Then make your dream come true as Finland offers you this memorable experience which you should definitely avail before you die.

47 Chefchaouen, Morocco

Chefchaouen in Morocco is a beautiful town famous for its white and blue buildings. Book your tickets now and witness the beauty of Morocco with your loved ones.

48 Pamukkale, Turkey

Your trip to Turkey is incomplete without visiting its Cotton Castle known as Pamukkale. Founded in around 190 B.C., Pamukkale is famous for its thermal waters and white terraces.

49 Lake Louise, Canada

If you are writing down the list of places to visit before  you die, then do mention Lake Louise in Canada. Located in the most famous Banff National Park, this lake definitely needs a place on the list of places to visit before you die.

50 Queenstown, New Zealand

New Zealand is no short of places for its visitors who travel from all over the world. One of the major highlights of New Zealand is its stunning Queenstown which features many adventurous activities to its tourists including scenic helicopter flights over snowy mountains, bungee jumping, gondola rides, shotover jet, Lord of the Rings filming location and the most famous Milford Sound.

51 Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska

Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska features the famous Denali Mountain. In addition to that, it also contains lush green parks and many wild animals who wander around in this area.

The list is never ending but I have summarized the best places to visit before you die. Do let us know in comments if you have a favorite place missing from the list!

Happy travels.

More Travel Speak

Travel Light – 18 Things You Don’t Need in Your Travel Kit

12 Simple Tips to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The ultimate travel bucket list for young couples: 25 best experiences to enjoy together, 101 best travel quotes for travel inspiration.

Have any questions? What about suggestions? Drop us a message in the comments below!

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Featured Travel Couple : Omer & Madeline, A Husband and Wife Traveling the World Together

Featured Travel Couple : Annette & Daniel Sold All Their Stuff, Quit Jobs, Traveling Full-time for the Next Five Years!

9 Very British Things to Do in London You Won’t Find on Your Average Bucket List

Stay connected, travel stories.

Travel Story : Christopher Corless, Just 25 And Traveled Over 80 Countries!

Featured Traveler : Jenny MacLean, an Adventurous Sun Seeker and a True Inspiration

Budget Travel Guide: Here is how you can travel more for LESS!

Traveling solo for the first time? Here are some must know tips before you leave

Top Things to do in Mykonos: Travel Guide to this Wonderful Greek Island

Follow us on instagram @thetravelspeak.

POPULAR POSTS

The Ultimate Travel Bucket list for Young Couples: 25 Best Experiences...

POPULAR CATEGORY

• Featured Traveler 20
• Travel Inspiration 17
• Solo Traveler 9
• Honeymoon 9
• Things To Do 5

The first presidential debate is tonight. Here's how to watch on TV or streaming

If it feels early, that's because it is: The first debate of the 2024 presidential election against President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take place on Thursday.

In mid-May, the Democratic and Republican front runners agreed to take part in a debate hosted by CNN, departing from the traditional debate procedure. The nominees are not participating in debates facilitated by the Commission on Presidential Debates .

CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the in-studio debate, with several networks planning to provide  commentary before and after  the big production. 

This year, there will be no live audience. So how can you watch the debate from your TV, laptop, tablet or phone?

When is the first presidential debate?

The upcoming presidential debate will begin at 8 p.m. Central time on Thursday, June 27. This is the earliest debate in U.S. history, which typically started in September or October, according to CNN .

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

How can I watch the presidential debate?

CNN will broadcast the debate on its cable channel. Other news channels will broadcast pre-debate commentary prior to the showing a simulcast of the CNN debate. Here are some of the broadcast networks that will air the debate live:

Can I watch the debate if I don't have cable?

Yes. A ‘CNN Presidential Debate’ Simulcast will be available on the Des Moines Register's website and on the  USA TODAY channel on YouTube .

If you have popular streaming apps, you can also find coverage there:

• Debate host CNN will provide its coverage on Max.
• ABC News will offer its coverage on Hulu.
• MSNBC coverage is available via Peacock.

When is the next presidential debate?

Biden and Trump also agreed to a debate hosted by ABC News on Sept. 10. The Commission on Presidential Debates planned to host its first debate on Sept. 16.

Reporting contributed by Sarah Gleason of USA TODAY.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter at @ Kkealey17 .

Morning Rundown: Biden's debate performance amplifies Democrats' fear, how gut bacteria may trigger weight gain, and Teddy Roosevelt's stolen pocket watch is returned

Democrats are talking about replacing Joe Biden. That wouldn't be so easy.

President Joe Biden's performance in the first debate Thursday has sparked a new round of criticism from Democrats , as well as public and private musing about whether he should remain at the top of the ticket.

"There is a sense of shock at how he came out at the beginning of this debate. How his voice sounded. He seemed a little disoriented," David Axelrod, who was a top White House and campaign official for former President Barack Obama, said on CNN.

"There are going to be discussions about whether he should continue," Axelrod added.

A Democratic lawmaker, asked by NBC News whether the debate inspired confidence in Biden, replied: "The best thing I can do to help Joe Biden is to pretend I didn’t get your text."

Publicly, Democratic officials continue to largely rally around Biden, and they argue a lackluster performance doesn’t change the fundamental stakes of the election.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, whose name is often floated as a potential alternative nominee, told reporters in the "spin room" after the debate that his party "could not be more wholly unified behind Biden" and said Biden shouldn’t step aside.

But the private whispers whipped up after Thursday’s debate performance, during which Biden had a raspy voice, spoke softly and at times seemed to lose his train of thought, leading his aides to try to deflect midway through the debate by saying he had a cold.

In the modern era, a national party has never tried to adversarially replace its nominee, in part, because knows it would most likely fail. The issue came before both parties in 2016, but neither took action.

Party rules make it almost impossible to replace nominees without their consent, let alone smoothly replace them with someone else. And doing so would amount to party insiders’ overturning the results of primaries when Democratic voters overwhelmingly to nominate Biden. He won almost 99% of all delegates.

And at the moment, there’s no known, serious effort to push him off the top of the ticket.

Still, the Democratic National Committee's charter does make some provisions in case the party’s nominee is incapacitated or opts to step aside, and an anti-Biden coup at the convention is theoretically possible, if highly unlikely. So how would it work?

What happens if Biden drops out before the convention?

The only plausible scenario for Democrats to get a new nominee would be for Biden to decide to withdraw, which he has sworn off repeatedly during other bumpy stretches of his campaign.  

He could do so while serving out the rest of his term in the White House, as Lyndon Johnson did in 1968. 

If Biden were to drop out before he is scheduled to be formally nominated in August, it would create a free-for-all among Democrats, because there’s no mechanism for him or anyone else to anoint a chosen successor.

It takes a majority of the roughly 4,000 pledged delegates to win the party’s nomination. Biden’s won 3,900 of them. Under recent reforms, the party’s more than 700 superdelegates — Democratic lawmakers and dignitaries — are allowed to vote only if no one wins a majority of pledged delegates on the first ballot, so their votes could be crucial in a contested convention. 

Because Biden's opponents all won effectively no delegates throughout the Democratic nominating process, there'd be a virtual clean slate heading into the convention, and the decision would most likely come down to the convention delegates who were initially pledged to Biden.

Biden would have some influence over his pledged delegates, but ultimately, they can vote as they please, so candidates would most likely campaign aggressively to win over each individual delegate.

However, there's a potentially important wrinkle: Democrats plan to formally nominate Biden virtually ahead of the late-August convention to sidestep any potential concerns about ballo t access in Ohio, where a technical quirk has complicated things

Democrats decided to plan a virtual nomination for Biden after Ohio Republicans balked at passing pro forma legislation that would allow Biden to be on the ballot, even though the convention falls after a state deadline. But while Republicans passed a law to shift the deadline, Democrats decided to move forward with a virtual nomination nonetheless.

Could Democrats replace Biden against his will?

There’s no evidence the party would entertain a change without Biden’s consent. But even if it did, there’s no mechanism for it to replace a candidate before the convention, and certainly no way for it to anoint a chosen successor.

If large swaths of the Democratic Party lost faith in Biden, delegates to the national convention could theoretically defect en masse. Of course, they were chosen to be delegates because of their loyalty to Biden and have pledged to support him at the convention.

But, unlike many Republican delegates, Democratic delegates aren’t technically bound to their candidate. DNC rules allow delegates to “in all good conscience reflect the sentiments of those who elected them,” providing some wiggle room.

The party’s charter does include provisions to replace the nominee in the event of a vacancy. The measure is intended to be used in case of death, resignation or incapacitation, not to replace someone who has no desire to step down.

That was the measure that Donna Brazile, then the interim DNC chair, considered invoking after Hillary Clinton collapsed two months before the 2016 election, she wrote in her memoir .

In her memoir, released a year later, Brazile wrote that she was worried “not just about Hillary’s health but about her anemic campaign ... so lacking in the spirit of fight.” 

“Perhaps changing the candidate was a chance to win this thing, to change the playing field in a way that would send Donald Trump scrambling and unable to catch up,” she wrote, adding that aides to other would-be candidates contacted her, including then-Vice President Biden’s chief of staff.

But after less than 24 hours of consideration, Brazile realized the idea was untenable without Clinton’s cooperation and likely to only divide her party further. “I could not make good on my threat to replace her," she wrote.

Current DNC Chair Jaime Harrison is a longtime Biden ally who serves, essentially, at the pleasure of the president. And the national party has certainly given no indication it’s anything but fully behind his re-election.  

What happens if Biden withdraws after the convention?

To fill a vacancy on the national ticket, the chair can call a “special meeting” of the full DNC, which includes about 500 members. On paper, at least, all it takes is a majority vote of those present to pick new presidential and vice presidential nominees. But that process would most likely be anything but smooth and be filled with behind-the-scenes jockeying and public pressure campaigns. 

If a vacancy were to occur close to the November election, however, it could raise constitutional, legal and practical concerns. Among other issues, ballots have to be printed well in advance of the election, and it might not be possible to change them in time.

Would Kamala Harris replace Biden?

If Biden were to relinquish the presidency, Vice President Kamala Harris would automatically become president — but not the Democratic Party’s nominee. Nor would she necessarily be the nominee if Biden withdrew from his re-election bid while he remained in the White House.

She might be politically favored, but party rules give the vice president no major mechanical benefit over other candidates. 

Biden’s delegates wouldn’t automatically transfer to Harris, and the convention holds separate votes on nominees for president and vice president. So she would still need to win a majority of delegates at the convention. 

If the top of the ticket were vacated after the convention, she would still need to win a majority of votes at the special meeting of the DNC.

That is all, at least, under current party rules. But a vacancy at the top of the ticket is the kind of dramatic moment that might lead party leaders to revisit them in the name of easing the transition. Harris has some close allies in key places at the DNC, including a co-chair of the party’s Rules and Bylaws Committee. But nothing would be likely to happen without a fight.

Ben Kamisar is a national political reporter for NBC News.

Alex Seitz-Wald is a senior politics reporter for NBC News.

Love Exploring

101 Amazing Places Around The World You Have To See Before You Die

Posted: October 8, 2023 | Last updated: October 9, 2023

What a wonderful world

Acropolis of Athens, Athens, Greece

Antelope Canyon, Arizona, USA

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto's most enchanting spots and it's easy to see why. The lush green stalks of bamboo rise tall, filtering the light from above and creating a magical atmosphere down below. Part of the Arashiyama district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, it's a nationally-designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty alongside the Moon Crossing Bridge, Tenryu-ji temple and the hamlet of Kiyotaki.

Moai, Easter Island, Chile

Far-flung Easter Island – one of the most remote inhabited islands on Earth – is a remarkable place, made even more so by its mysterious moai. These giant stone-carved heads and torsos stand stoically on sites around the volcanic island. It's widely thought, but not known for certain, that they were carved by the Rapa Nui people between the 11th and 14th centuries.

Read more about the world's greatest travel mysteries that might never be solved

Salar de Uyuni, Potosí, Bolivia

Giant's Causeway, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK

Munnar, Kerala, India

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Hunan Province, China

It's not surprising the subtropical forests, deep ravines and towering sandstone buttes of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park served as the inspiration for the film Avatar . The place most definitely resembles a lost world. This ethereal spot is part of the vast UNESCO World Heritage Site of Wulingyuan Scenic and Historic Interest Area in central China’s Hunan Province, and is home to rare species such as the ginko tree as well unusual primates and birds.

You won't believe these landscapes actually exist

Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia

A mesmerizing swirl of bright white silica sand and striking azure waters located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays certainly look like paradise on Earth. It’s not hard to see why the 4.3-mile long (7km) Whitehaven Beach, captured from above in this stunning shot, has been showered with awards and typically attracts visitors from all over the world.

Take a look at the world's most beautiful beaches from above

Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos is an isolated group of islands 605 miles (974km) off the west coast of Ecuador. Famous for being the place that inspired naturalist Charles Darwin’s work  On the Origin of the Species , the diversity of wildlife here is mind-blowing. The Galápagos is home to over 300 different reptile species and birds such as the blue-footed booby, with 50% of the world’s breeding pairs living here.

Discover more secrets of the world's most special islands

Provence, France

Taj Mahal, Agra, India

One of the world's most alluring buildings and India's most famous monument, the white marble mausoleum has become symbolic of enduring love. It was built in the 1630s by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. An exquisite example of Islamic architecture, it took about 22 years to complete with a workforce of around 20,000 people.

Discover stunning images of the world's historic attractions

Grand Canal, Venice, Italy

One of the world's most famous waterways, Venice’s Grand Canal snakes through the heart of the famous floating city. At just over two-miles (3km) long, the Grand Canal is the main artery of Venice and flows past some of the city’s most famous landmarks. This view, captured from the Ponte dell'Accademia, is undeniably one of the most stunning cityscapes in the world.

Love this? Follow our Facebook page for more travel inspiration

Palawan, the Philippines

Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia

Stretching 249 miles (400km) from Torquay to Nelson along Australia's southern coast, the Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most spectacular drives. Hugging the dramatic Victoria coastline, the road passes by forests, rocky seashore platforms, wild surf beaches and towering cliffs with soaring views of the Southern Ocean-lashed coast and famous rock formations Twelve Apostles and London Arch.

Take a look at the world's most amazing roads from above

Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto, Japan

Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

Mount Denali, Alaska, USA

High on many travelers' wish lists, Mount Denali is North America’s tallest peak, rising a dizzying 20,310 feet (6,190m) above sea level. Located in south-central Alaska, the native Koyukon Athabascan people named it Denali, which translates as The Great One. However, in 1896, a gold prospector decided to name the mountain after then-presidential nominee William McKinley, spurring a naming dispute which lasted more than a century. After a 40-year stint of officially being called Mount McKinley, the name was changed back to Denali in 2015.

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal

It might be called a palace, but Pena Palace is in fact a castle, and few are so heart-flutteringly pretty. Its butter-yellow turrets and brick-red towers rise above the treetops in hilly Sintra, just outside Lisbon. The multicolored beauty, an example of 19th-century Romantic architecture, was commissioned by King Ferdinand II and completed in 1854, and has been home to Portuguese royals through the years.

These are Europe's most beautiful castles

Borobudur, Central Java, Indonesia

Few sights rival that of sunrise over Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, with Mount Merapi in the distance. Yet there is a dark history behind the serene image: Merapi is volcanic, and many scientists now believe that eruptions and earthquakes between 928 and 1006 led monks to abandon Borobudur. The Mataram Kingdom erected the temple in around AD 824, which means it enjoyed barely 200 years of use before the forest reclaimed it. The temple was brought to the West's attention by British and Dutch explorers in 1814.

Montmartre, Paris, France

Oia, Santorini, Greece

Greece is so blessed with natural and man-made beauty, it’s almost embarrassing. But it’s hard to think of a view that more succinctly sums up the country’s gorgeousness than the blue domes of Santorini island. The most famous whitewashed buildings are in Oia, a clifftop village perched prettily by the Aegean Sea, whose azure hue perfectly matches those rooftops. Come sunset, it's indisputably magical.

These are the world's most beautiful coastal towns and villages

Florence Cathedral, Florence, Italy

One of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world, the stunning marble façade of Santa Maria del Fiore is instantly recognizable. Located in Florence's Piazza del Duomo along with The Baptistery of St John and Giotto's Bell Tower, the cathedral is one of the most famous in the world. One of its most notable features is Brunelleschi's Duomo – more than 500 years after completion it still remains the largest masonry dome in the world.

Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa's flat-topped mountain is one of the most famous and admired peaks in the world. It's also one of the most ancient at over 260 million years old. Now part of a national park, it's also home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the Table Mountain ghost frog and a whopping 1,470 flower species.

Discover secrets of the world's most beautiful mountains

Niagara Falls, USA and Canada

Niagara Falls isn’t the biggest or the tallest waterfall in the world, or even the US, but it's among the most famous – largely thanks to the dramatic confluence of its three broad, thunderous cascades. Located near Buffalo in New York state and splashing across the border into Canada, it’s made up of Horseshoe Falls (the biggest), American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Its distinctive green-blue hue, caused by a mix of rock flour and mineral salts, also contributes to its global fame.

Rome, Italy

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

St Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

One of the most colorful buildings in the world, the ornate St. Basil's Cathedral is one of Moscow's most recognizable landmarks. Located in Red Square, the cathedral's design was intended to resemble the flames of a bonfire. The church was confiscated from the Russian Orthodox Church and completely secularized in 1929 as part of the Soviet Union's doctrine of state atheism. It's since operated as a State Historical Museum but weekly Orthodox services were restored in 1997.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Yosemite Valley, California, USA

Famed for its awe-inspiring vistas, cliffs and lush forests, Yosemite National Park is full of big-hitter attractions, but there's nothing quite like Yosemite Valley. Seen here from the Tunnel View viewpoint, you can really appreciate the jaw-dropping landscape in all its splendor.

Take a look at historic photos of America's national parks

Castle Combe, Wiltshire, England, UK

With its characteristic Cotswolds stone buildings and winding countryside roads, it’s no wonder Castle Combe has often been called the prettiest village in England. The historic site was first settled by Celts in ancient times, before becoming a regional hub for the wool industry during the Middle Ages. Many of its landmarks, including a market cross, an old water pump and the Church of St. Andrew, were built during this period.

Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, USA

Llyn Llydaw, Wales, UK

This classic shot opens up from the summit of Mount Snowdon and while the peak is pretty to look at, it’s this view of Llyn Llydaw that has previously been voted the UK’s best sight . The skinny, squiggly lake lies within Snowdonia National Park, cradled by emerald-green valleys and surrounded by mountains. It’s also linked to the legend of King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake.

Skazka Canyon, Kyrgyzstan

The Dark Hedges, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK

Often regarded as one of the most enchanting places in Northern Ireland, this mythical tunnel of beech trees looks like a doorway into another world. Originally planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century as an impressive entrance for their Georgian mansion, today the trees are one of the country’s most-photographed natural wonders. Avid fans of the HBO series Game of Thrones may recognize The Dark Hedges as the location for the Kingsroad.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Manarola, Liguria, Italy

Set amid rocky coastal cliffs, Manarola is one of the five fishing villages that make up the breathtaking Cinque Terre in northwestern Italy. It's probably the most recognizable of all five thanks to the pastel houses clinging to the cliffside. Legend has it that they were painted in bright colors so returning fishermen could spot their homes more easily. The village is at its most stunning during sunset, when the low evening sun casts a honey hue over the pretty buildings.

Discover more of Italy's most beautiful towns and villages

Tiger's Nest, Bhutan

Grand Prismatic Spring, Wyoming, USA

Machu Picchu, Cusco, Peru

Deadvlei, Namibia

Angel Falls, Bolívar State, Venezuela

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, England, UK

Nā Pali Coast, Hawaii, USA

We're not sure about you but we've never seen anything more incredible than the Nā Pali Coast in Hawaii. This dazzling shoreline is punctuated by razor-sharp sea cliffs, delicate winding valleys and cascading waterfalls. If the eye-catching area reminds you of another age when dinosaurs ruled the world, it's no wonder – the coast was the backdrop for sci-fi classic The Lost World: Jurassic Park .

Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Bruges, Belgium

Kirkjufell, Iceland

Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England, UK

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Whether you're religious or not, the sight of the 98-foot (30m) sculpture of Christ rising above Rio de Janeiro's magical mountainous landscape with outstretched arms can't fail to stir you. The largest Art Deco statue in the world, this world-famous monument was the brainchild of a priest in the 1850s but it wasn't built until the 1920s. Dedicated in 1931, the concrete Christ has surveyed the city from the top of the forest-clad Corcovado mountain ever since.

Discover more of the world's most jaw-dropping sculptures and statues

Hallstatt, Austria

Five Flower Lake, Sichuan Province, China

Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah, USA

Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain

Pamukkale, Turkey

The town of Pamukkale in Turkey is celebrated for its natural travertine terraces which cascade down its hillside like clouds. These 17 mineral-rich thermal pools are part of an ancient Roman spa city. The pools are formed by calcium carbonate deposits on the surface of the water and are said to have healing properties.

Take a look at the world's most beautiful natural wonders

Las Lajas Sanctuary, Nariño, Colombia

The most striking feature of this Catholic church is its setting: the gray stone structure spans a forested gorge 150 feet (46m) above a river. Its story is one of miracles and determination, beginning in 1754 when a mother and daughter, sheltering from a storm, saw an image of the Virgin Mary in the rocks. According to the story, the daughter was cured of her muteness and deafness. After hearing of the miracle, a blind man spent 10 years collecting funds to build a chapel in the spot – and his sight returned. Inspired by these marvels, the vertiginous church was finally built between 1916 and 1949.

Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris, Scotland, UK

White Sands National Park, New Mexico, USA

Lofoten, Norway

Mount Fuji, Japan

The perfect snow-capped cone of Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, is a defining symbol of the nation, interwoven in its culture and religion. Revered over the centuries, the mountain, located around 60 miles (97km) west of Tokyo, is seen as many things, including a living being and the home of spirits and deities, as well as the spirits of ancestors. Today, climbing the peak is seen as a path to transcendence by Japan’s two major religions, Shinto and Buddhism. Their shrines line its sacred slopes and torii gates mark the transition from the profane to the holy.

Petra, Jordan

The startling beauty of the ancient hand-hewn sandstone city of Petra cannot be overestimated. Established in 213 BC, it was once the capital city of the Arab Nabateans who were famed for their skill at carving buildings into rocks. Despite now being firmly on the tourist trail, this age-old wonder remains astonishing.

Check out more of the world's most beautiful ancient ruined cities

Sigiriya, Matale District, Sri Lanka

Ik Kil, Yucatán, Mexico

Reflection Canyon, Utah, USA

Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Germany

Bagan, Mandalay Region, Myanmar

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

However you look at it, this huge, thundering waterfall on the Zambezi River is pretty incredible. Straddling Zimbabwe and Zambia, with cascades more than 5,500-feet (1,700m) wide and 355-feet (108m) tall, it’s one of the world’s largest waterfalls. It’s also among the loudest, making such a racket and creating such a cloud of mist that the Kalolo-Lozi people named it Mosi-oa-Tunya, or The Smoke That Thunders.

Here are more of the world's most beautiful waterfalls

Maroon Bells, Colorado, USA

Geyzernoye Lake, Siberia, Russia

Marble Caves, Aysén, Chile

Puente Nuevo, Ronda, Spain

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria, Germany

Translating as the 'red fortress above the Tauber river', the ancient red-roofed village of Rothenburg ob der Tauber leaves a lasting impression. Set along southern Germany’s Romantic Road, it's one of many medieval storybook settlements with defensive towers, narrow timber-clad houses and cobbled streets. If wandering around the picturesque place isn't enough, there's plenty to entertain visitors, including museums, gardens, enticing shops and buzzy cafés.

Now discover Europe's most adorable small towns and villages

Skeleton Coast, Namibia

Helmcken Falls, British Columbia, Canada

Patagonia, Argentina and Chile

Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia

Milford Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand

With soaring snow-capped mountains, dazzling waters and lush rainforest, the majesty of New Zealand's Fiordland National Park gives Norway a run for its money. The jewel in the crown of this magical region in the island's southwest corner is Milford Sound, one of 14 fiords. Writer Rudyard Kipling was definitely onto something when he called it the "eighth wonder of the world”.

Discover the last unspoiled places on Earth

Stuðlagil Canyon, Iceland

Manhattan, New York, USA

Not all skylines were created equal. Manhattan’s jagged, glinting, gleaming cityscape is one of the world’s most famous and recognizable vistas. It looks gorgeous in any light, from the pale haze of dawn to sunset and after dark, when New York City’s bright lights shimmer over the broad Hudson River. And it's not just the skyline. From the glorious green space that is Central Park and the famous cables of the Brooklyn Bridge to the city’s famous brownstones, every inch of the Big Apple is ridiculously photogenic.

Hạ Long Bay, Quảng Ninh, Vietnam

Featuring a constellation of roughly 1,600 limestone karst islands, Hạ Long Bay takes its name from an ancient legend about the dragon Hạ Long, who is thought to act as protector of the Vietnamese people. It’s not hard to see why local people turned to myths and legends to make sense of the landscape here: mist-draped and suffused with emerald light in this atmospheric shot, the sprawling archipelago looks every bit as otherworldly as the ancient tales suggest.

Now discover the natural wonders facing a perilous future

Giethoorn, Overijssel, the Netherlands

Prokletije, Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland

Khiva, Uzbekistan

Burano, Veneto, Italy

Looking out to the Venetian lagoon, Burano's eye-catching houses line the streets and canals in a colorful maze. It's thought that the island got its signature look back in the day when fishermen painted their houses as brightly as possible, so they would be easier to spot in the thick fog so common on the lagoon. A popular day-trip destination from Venice, Burano is also famous for its artisan lace-making.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA

Cappadocia, Turkey

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE

It's tricky to pinpoint the most eye-catching aspect of Abu Dhabi’s spectacular mosque, completed in 2007. Could it be the piercingly tall minarets, or the 80 marble domes that form the roof? Perhaps it’s the gold-topped pillars or the sheer amount of pure white marble that makes up the modern Islamic masterpiece. It could equally be the chandeliers that shimmer in the main prayer hall, or the detailed floral designs laid into the floor. All of this together, though, places it among the most beautiful buildings in the world.

Nyhavn, Copenhagen, Denmark

Seven Sisters, East Sussex, England, UK

Pink Granite Coast, Brittany, France

The unique color of these rocks – a range of rosy tones from amber to coral, offset by the crystalline teal of the ocean – is created by an exceptionally rare natural combination of quartz and feldspar. The Pink Granite Coast, with its enchanting palette and amazing formations, runs along more than six miles (10km) of coastline in Brittany.

Secret France: amazing places you might not know about

Zhangye National Geopark, Gansu Province, China

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Lhasa, Tibet

The Holy City, the Place of the Gods, the center of Tibetan Buddhism – Lhasa has a lot to live up to. But it would be hard not to be moved by the first sight of Potala Palace or the fervor of pilgrims walking the Barkhor circuit around the Jokhang temple in winding, incense-scented alleys. Perhaps it’s the altitude, but Lhasa seems to have something magical about it.

Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada

The surface of Moraine Lake, a highlight of Banff National Park, dances its way through the day with altering shades of soft teal, milky turquoise and icy sapphire. Its pristine appearance looks even more dramatic against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains and shores edged with pine trees. Ice forms on the glacial-fed lake in winter and in early spring, floes often break off and shimmer under the water’s surface for an extra layer of beguiling beauty.

Discover more of Canada’s beautiful national parks

Mont-Saint-Michel, Normandy, France

Mont-Saint-Michel is a tiny tidal island crowned by a medieval abbey and set in an incredible bay straddling Normandy and Brittany. One of Europe's most unforgettable sights, it's only accessible during low tide. The fairy-tale abbey is mesmerizing any time of day, but when the sunset paints it a pastel pink, it's at its most charming.

Now take a look at the most wonderful views on Earth

More for You

Brett Kavanaugh Warns Supreme Court Decision Will Cause 'Too Much Harm'

This Is The Safest Way To Wash Pesticides Off Fruit, And It's Probably Not Something You Saw On TikTok

Scenes from Biden vs. Trump: The first debate of 2024

5 reasons your biceps aren’t getting bigger, according to a fitness expert

‘Our children have varying degrees of success’: My husband and I are in our 80s and have $300,000 to leave our 3 children. Do we give more to our underemployed son?

Bronny James and Rich Paul Face Backlash Over Bold Draft Day Demands

Watch: Massive sinkhole swallows soccer field in Illinois

Expert demonstrates genius tip to get rid of empty medication bottles: ‘Do not recycle these curbside’

As a Workplace Psychologist, I've Witnessed Many Cost-Cutting Strategies, but Nothing Like This

The Hidden Shame of Surfing

Shohei Ohtani saved from line drive to the face by Dodgers ball boy’s catch of the year

“It was a move to sabotage my career”: Wil Wheaton’s Career Would’ve Hit the Doldrums Had He Listened to a Cheating Star Trek: The Next Generation Producer

Taylor Swift through the years: From baby-faced singer to global icon

Apron Belly: How to Reduce Stomach Sagging

5 Things You Should Do if You Accidentally Click on a Suspicious Link

Everything Ford Fans Should Know About The Model A

Presidential debate: How much did the debt grow under Biden and Trump's terms?

46% of the US's middle class workers are now slashing — or completely cutting out — contributions to their retirement funds. Why it's a bigger problem than they might think

Can you refreeze thawed meat? Inside food safety guidelines, freezer burn and more.

15 Highest Paying Jobs That Nobody Wants

• Cast & crew

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim

The untold story behind Helm's Deep, hundreds of years before the fateful war, telling the life and bloodsoaked times of its founder, Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan. The untold story behind Helm's Deep, hundreds of years before the fateful war, telling the life and bloodsoaked times of its founder, Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan. The untold story behind Helm's Deep, hundreds of years before the fateful war, telling the life and bloodsoaked times of its founder, Helm Hammerhand, the King of Rohan.

• Kenji Kamiyama
• Jeffrey Addiss
• Phoebe Gittins
• Will Matthews
• Miranda Otto
• Lorraine Ashbourne

• Helm Hammerhand

• Fréaláf Hildeson
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 10 minutes
• Dolby Atmos
• Dolby Digital
• IMAX 6-Track

Related news

Contribute to this page.

• See more gaps
• Learn more about contributing

More to explore

Recently viewed.