The Most Visited Attraction in Every US State
The United States is home to several popular attractions for visitors to explore. From awe-inspiring landscapes in National Parks to iconic landmarks known worldwide, there’s no shortage of stops when traveling through the country.
It’s a popular tourist destination, and with so many states and attractions to see, it’s challenging to know which stops are worth putting on your bucket list.
If you’re planning a trip to the US and don’t want to miss any iconic destinations, this list is for you. Some of the most visited and popular attractions in every US state make your trip across the country just a bit easier.
Alabama: U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville
If you’re interested in NASA and space, the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville is a must-see. Last year alone, the Center had a record of 626,000 visitors who traveled worldwide and across the states.
The center has one of the largest collections of rockets in the world and even offers a Space Camp based on NASA astronaut training. You’ll also find astronaut training simulators and live shows you won’t want to miss.
Alaska: Denali National Park and Preserve
Immerse yourself in nature at Alaska’s iconic Denali National Park and Preserve. The stunning National Park is located on six million acres of wild land to discover.
According to the National Park Service, over 600,000 people visit the park yearly to see the picturesque landscapes, including snow-dusted mountain peaks, wildflowers, and wild animals roaming the land. You’ll be amazed by the natural beauty of this must-see preserve.
Arizona: Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is a major hotspot that attracts close to five million visitors from across the globe every year. It’s considered one of the natural wonders of the world and features swooping canyons with millions of years of history behind them.
Take in the magnificent views of red rocks on the many hiking trails, head out rafting on the Colorado River, or tour the park by helicopter for an unforgettable experience.
Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park
For a unique experience, visit Hot Spring National Park in Arkansas to see 4,000-year-old spring water and natural springs you won’t find anywhere else. The park is the oldest national park in the United States, and in 2021, it had over 2 million visitors, beating the previous record set in 1970.
The park features picturesque landscapes, hiking trails that wind through the Ouachita Mountains, and prime camping spots that immerse you in nature.
California: The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is a magnificent suspension bridge connecting San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean and is a staple landmark that defines San Francisco. It offers awe-inspiring views of the city and the vast ocean, and there are plenty of ways to discover the 1.7-mile-long bridge.
Each year, over 10 million visitors flock to see the iconic landmark, surrounding mountains, and city skyline.
Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado is home to Rocky Mountain National Park that attracts over 4.5 million visitors a year. The magnificent park is located on over 250,000 acres and offers the outdoor enthusiast plenty to do and explore.
Discover the rugged mountains with miles of hiking trails, take in the crystal-clear lakes, and enjoy the surrounding scenic wildlife. Nature lovers can enjoy outdoor activities such as rock climbing, bird watching, camping, and more.
Connecticut: Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic
Hailed as the largest maritime museum in the United States, The Mystic Seaport Museum features an impressive collection of historic sailing ships and boats. Along with old sailing ships, the museum features a 19th-century seaport village that shows how people lived at the time.
The museum garners about 250,000 visitors every year and is worth the visit if you’re looking to learn something new and take in the old history of Connecticut.
Delaware: Rehoboth Beach
Unwind and relax in this beautiful Atlantic Coast town that’s quickly become Delaware’s most visited city, and for good reason. Rehoboth Beach is made up of a stunning mile-long stretch of beach and boardwalk to explore.
Stop by a free concert from Friday to Sunday or grab a delicious bite in the beloved culinary scene. The beach is also lined with unique boutiques and shops downtown to explore.
Florida: Walt Disney World, Orlando
You can’t plan a trip to Florida without visiting one of the most famous amusement parks in the world. In 2022, Walt Disney World welcomed 17 million visitors from all over the world, making it the most visited amusement park in the world.
The park features four theme parks and two water parks, along with several lavish and beautiful resorts to plan your stay in. Take a ride on the notable Space Mountain in the Magic Kingdom, or up your adrenaline on the Rock ‘n’ Roll Coaster starring Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios.
Georgia: World of Coca-Cola Museum
If you’re a fan of the iconic pop drink, you’ll love Georgia’s World of Coca-Cola Museum. The museum features a history of the world-famous beverage, including classic advertisements throughout the many decades of the beverage, and a behind-the-scenes look at the bottling process.
You can also sample over 100 Coca-Cola sodas from all over the world to see how flavors have changed over the years.
Hawaii: Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii is a strikingly beautiful state, and the Volcanoes National Park is no exception. The park welcomes over 2.6 million visitors per year and is one of the most popular attractions on the Big Island.
The park offers unforgettable views of the Kilauea volcano, one of the world’s most active volcanoes) and the Mauna Loe volcano. You can take in the beautiful steam vents in Crater Rim Drive or take a nature walk on the many trails of the landscape.
Idaho: Shoshone Falls Park
Over 1.5 million visitors flock to Shoshone Falls Park every year to catch a glimpse of the majestic waterfalls. The falls are 212 feet tall and 900 feet wide, making them one of the largest waterfalls in the United States.
Shoshone Falls is taller than the infamous Niagara Falls and is surrounded by a magnificent canyon and the picturesque Snake River, making the scenic attraction worth the visit.
Illinois: Millennium Park, Chicago
Millennium Park is known for its infamous Cloud Gate sculpture, coined “The Bean.” The park draws 25 million visitors each year, many of whom go to see their reflections in the sculpture and to take photos.
It’s entirely free to enter the park, and while you’re there, you can visit the scenic Lurie Garden or catch a show at Jay Pritzker Pavillion in the summertime.
Indiana: Indiana Dunes National Park
The Indiana Dunes National Park is a popular attraction that offers 15,000 acres of wild land to explore. The park had over 3 million visitors in 2021 and has over 50 miles of winding trails through sand dunes, woodlands, luscious wetlands, and wild landscapes you won’t find anywhere else.
With so many diverse ecosystems, it’s the perfect attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Iowa: Field of Dreams, Dyersville
Movie buffs love this attraction and flock to Iowa to visit the original baseball field from the iconic 1989 film Field of Dreams. Nestled in the countryside of Dyersville, the field and farm are the exact locations where the 80s movie was filmed.
The Field of Dreams brings in over 100,000 visitors per year, features a gift shop, and offers tournaments and baseball camps for youths.
Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita
Sedgwick County Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the United States and takes the title of Kansas’ most visited tourist attraction. The zoo gathers over half a million visitors every year.
It’s home to over 3,000 animals of almost 400 species, including barn animals, penguins, pandas, and more. It’s a fun attraction for kids and animal lovers visiting Kansas.
Kentucky: Kentucky Horse Park
When you think of Kentucky, the Kentucky Derby comes to mind, which is why the Kentucky Horse Park is one of the most popular attractions in the state. The Park welcomes over one million visitors annually and is a must-see spot for horse lovers.
It is located on 1,200 acres of serene farmland and is one of the most beautiful facilities for horses, home to nearly 100 horses.
Louisiana: The French Quarter, New Orleans
The French Quarter is an absolute must-see on your travel bucket list when visiting Louisiana. It’s in the heart of the city and is known for its historic architecture, buzzing nightlife inspired by jazz music, and vibrant, colorful buildings that stand out from the rest.
Here, you’ll find the iconic Jackson Square, where you can watch a live street performance, carefully curated boutiques, and gourmet food for a truly unique experience.
Maine: Acadia National Park
Arcadia National Park showcases Maine’s natural beauty. It is located on 47,000 acres of Atlantic coastland and attracts more than four million visitors per year. The park is made up of dense woods, glacier peaks, and rocky beaches that offer stunning views of the coast and rolling hills.
Acadia National Park also features the infamous Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. Bears, whales, moose, and seabirds roam the land, so you’re guaranteed to have a genuine off-the-grid experience in nature.
Maryland: National Aquarium, Baltimore
If you’re a fan of marine wildlife, you’ll love Maryland’s most famous attraction — the National Aquarium in Baltimore. The Aquarium features award-winning exhibits like the “Living Seashore” exhibit and is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals.
The exhibit offers a unique inside look at the diverse and unique habitats underwater and is a buzzing attraction for families and tourists.
Massachusetts: Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston
Located on Boston’s Freedom Trail, the Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a bustling marketplace lined with local shops, boutiques, pubs, restaurants, and much more. Walk along the cobblestone streets and promenades to enjoy live music and street performances, or stop by a local coffee shop for a fresh cup.
The marketplace was built in 1742 and is steeped in rich history and unique architecture you won’t find anywhere else in Massachusetts.
Michigan: Mackinac Island
Plan a trip to the picturesque Mackinac Island for the ultimate relaxing getaway. The Island is a hidden oasis with no cars or chain hotels and is a dream vacation spot for those who love a local vibe. Instead, you’ll find quaint bed and breakfasts, historic hotels, and inns for a little R&R.
Explore the island by bike, take a carriage ride, or go fishing on the Great Lakes surrounding the charming island for a slow-paced and enjoyable trip.
Minnesota: Mall of America, Bloomington
The Mall of America is a must-see destination when visiting Minnesota. This giant shopping mall is an iconic staple in Bloomington, with a staggering 40 million visitors every year. What makes this mall so special is its many attractions that you wouldn’t normally find in a shopping mall.
The shopping center has 520 stores and 60 restaurants to choose from, along with other attractions, including minigolf and an aquarium. The Mall of America also houses the Nickelodeon Universe — the nation’s largest indoor amusement park.
Mississippi: Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg
One of Mississippi’s most renowned attractions, Vicksburg National Military Park, is one historical site you’ll want to see. The park gets about half a million visitors per year and is the go-to destination for history buffs.
At the park, you’ll learn about Vicksburg and its pivotal role in the Civil War. Listen to stories from soldiers and learn about the events that unfolded while touring different historic monuments at this 1,800-acre park.
Missouri: Gateway Arch, St. Louis
Don’t miss the iconic arch in St. Louis while traveling through the great state of Missouri. The Gateway Arch is 630 feet tall, making it the world’s tallest arch and the tallest accessible structure in Missouri.
It’s a memorable landmark where visitors can take a 4-minute tram ride to visit the top for stunning views of the Mississippi River and downtown St. Louis.
Montana: Glacier National Park
If you’ve ever wanted to get the chance to see glaciers in person, Montana’s Glacier National Park is the place to visit. The park welcomes around 3 million visitors annually and is a popular stop for visitors traveling in Montana.
It’s located on over 1 million acres in the Rocky Mountains of Montana and features glacier peaks and swooping valleys. The park includes over 700 miles of hiking trails with many picture-perfect stops along the way.
Nebraska: Chimney Rock National Historic Sight
The Chimney Rock National Historic Site is a natural wonder that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors to Nebraska annually. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Nebraska and is known for it’s extremely pointed tip.
Not only is it a beautiful sight, but it has plenty of history behind it. The rock was used as a landmark for travelers heading west through the trails, and it would guide them in the right direction.
Nevada: Las Vegas Strip
There is no place in the world like the Las Vegas Strip, making it a destination you can’t miss when planning a trip to Nevada. The strip is lined with brightly lit casinos, upscale hotels, and buzzing clubs that have helped coined it as the city that never sleeps.
Enjoy live performances by noteworthy stars, vibrant restaurants, packed cocktail bars, and the iconic Fountains of Bellagio for an unforgettable night. In 2023 alone, the Vegas Strip had 40 million visitors!
New Hampshire: The Mount Washington Cog Railway
For a unique experience like no other, visit New Hampshire’s Mount Washington Cog Railway. Also called the Cog, this railway is the world’s first mountain-climbing cog. It’s a popular tourist attraction, bringing in around 300,000 visitors annually.
Seeped in history, the Cog will carry you to the top of the mountain through the scenic Mount Washington for an unforgettable journey.
New Jersey: Cape May
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to New Jersey’s infamous Cape May. Cape May is the southernmost part of New Jersey and has pristine white sand beaches, exceptional restaurants, and nature at every turn.
Relax at the beach or enjoy a shopping trip to the many unique boutiques that line the street. In 2022, Cape May County had an impressive 11.3 million visitors.
New Mexico: White Sands National Park
White Sands National Park is another natural wonder you can’t miss traveling through New Mexico. Not many tourists know about this hidden gem, but it is a sight to see.
The park features white sands and rolling dunes that extend over 270 square miles across the land. You can explore the dunes by trail, driving, hiking, biking, or even sledding for those seeking out a dose of adventure.
New York: The Statue of Liberty
You can’t plan a trip to New York without checking out the world-famous Statue of Liberty. The national monument is 93 m tall and can be seen from many points in New York City. The statue is located on Liberty Island, which you can visit by quick ferry ride.
The statue welcomes over 4 million visitors each year and will provide you with some memorable and iconic photos to share of your trip to the Big Apple.
North Carolina: Biltmore Estate
Get an inside look at how people lived during the French Renaissance. The Biltmore House is the largest home in America — spanning 175,000 square feet and featuring a staggering 250 rooms. The French Renaissance home includes 43 bathrooms, 35 bedrooms, and 65 fireplaces!
The house is filled with a rich history of the Renaissance and is located on a beautifully kept estate that features 75 acres of meticulously designed gardens.
North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a massive park nestled in North Dakota and features a stunning blend of natural landscapes — from the endless Great Plains to the jagged Badlands. Visitors will find wildlife like elk, prairie dogs, and bison roaming the 70,000 acres of land.
The park is a popular tourist attraction, attracting nearly 600,000 visitors every year. You can also drive along the Scenic Loop Drive for the ultimate views while road-tripping through this iconic park.
Ohio: Cedar Point
Don’t plan a trip to Ohio without visiting the renowned Cedar Point. This giant amusement park has 68 rides that range from thrilling to fun rides that are an excellent fit for the entire family. The park features a waterpark, three kids’ areas, live events and shows, and accommodations to make your stay that much easier.
It’s the perfect destination for adrenaline lovers and families looking for a fun-filled day.
Oklahoma: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Take a trip back into the era of cowboys and Western history at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Over 10 million visitors have visited this iconic museum, which features historic Western artifacts and art.
The museum also has a frontier town where you can walk through and feel like you’re back in the Wild Wild West. It also features Western Halls of Fame that display and pay tribute to the era’s most famous actors and Westerners.
Oregon: Multnomah Falls
You’ve probably seen photos of the majestic Multnomah Falls, a staple attraction in Oregon. The iconic waterfalls are located on Multnomah Creek in the Columbia River Gorge.
They’re the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, attracting more than 2 million visitors every year. The cascading waterfalls are the tallest in Oregon and are a natural landscape you’ll want to see.
Pennsylvania: Hersheypark
Take a trip to Pennsylvania’s largest amusement park to experience the thrilling roller coasters and rides. The park had over 3 million visitors in 2022 alone, and there is truly something for everyone at this iconic park.
Hersheypark, named after the iconic chocolate company, features classic family rides, a zoo, shops, vibrant restaurants, plenty of chocolate, and an 11-acre waterpark.
Rhode Island: The Breakers, Newport
The Breakers mansion, once the home of the Vanderbilt family in the 1800s, is a Renaissance-style home worth visiting. It is now a National Historic Landmark and features historic architecture, crystal chandeliers, and rooms with 50-foot high ceilings.
The house is adorned with mosaic tile floors, marble, and scenic ocean views that make it one of the most luxurious mansions around.
South Carolina: Broadway at the Beach
Broadway at the Beach is undoubtedly South Carolina’s most visited attraction, and you’ll want to add it to your bucket list. Tucked away in the heart of Myrtle Beach, Broadway at the Beach is the ultimate spot to rest and relax.
Bask in the gorgeous strip of beach, visit the trendy shopping boutiques, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many exciting dining options. Broadway at the Beach also features bustling nightlife and special events during the year, so you’ll never experience a dull moment.
South Dakota: Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a world-famous landmark that over two million tourists visit every year. Nestled in the Black Hills region are the magnificent sculptures of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt.
You can take the scenic Presidential Trail through the woods to access the awe-inspiring sculptures and the surrounding forest views.
Tennesse: Dollywood
Dollywood theme park is a thrilling destination you won’t want to miss when visiting Tennessee. Every year, 2.5 million visitors flock to the park to enjoy over 40 rides, world-class live country, bluegrass, and rock music shows, and mouth-wateringly delicious southern-style food.
The park is known around the world and is owned by Dolly Parton, the iconic country singer who is known for her Tennesse roots and unforgettable voice.
Texas: The San Antonio River Walk
Don’t end your trip in Texas without taking a stroll down its most popular tourist attraction, the iconic San Antonio River Walk. The walkway sees over 9 million visitors annually and is lined with cobblestone paths, colorful umbrellas and boats, and bridges that cross the water.
The streets feature bustling restaurants and arched trees that create a serene, unique atmosphere that will have you already looking forward to your next trip back.
Utah: Zion National Park
Utah is known for being home to the renowned Zion National Park. This scenic park is made up of vibrant red cliffs, lush forests, and winding trails along the Virgin River.
The Emerald Pools along the river lead to picturesque waterfalls for the ultimate experience in nature. Not only is it a hotspot in Utah, but it’s also one of the most visited national parks in the United States.
Vermont: Church Street Marketplace, Burlington
Vermont is known for its iconic Church Street Marketplace — the ultimate shopping hub that’s more than just a marketplace. The award-winning market features over 100 stores and lively restaurants that attract roughly 1.5 million people annually.
Take a stroll through the bustling four pedestrian blocks where you can unwind and take in the local small businesses and community.
Virginia: Colonial Williamsburg
Virginia is home to the largest living history museum in the world: Colonial Williamsburg. Take a trip into the past at Colonial Williamsburg, where you can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride through the 18th-century town, embark on the haunted ghost tour, or explore art made by local, amateur artists you won’t find anywhere else.
The 300-acre site and local townspeople will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into the 18th century for an unforgettable time.
Washington: Pike Place Market, Seattle
You can’t visit Washington without visiting the notable Pike Place Market in Seattle. Established in 1907, the market is a bustling marketplace where small businesses, artists, buskers, and local farmers set up shop.
Explore the soul of Seattle with fresh, local food, trendy boutiques, and live entertainment that creates a buzzing atmosphere in this cultural hub.
West Virginia: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
West Virginia is home to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, a historic town where John Brown’s 1859 raid that sparked the Civil War began. It’s a must-see for history buffs as it holds many memories and displays from a time when people fought for their freedom and civil rights.
Today, it’s a quaint town that offers beautiful scenery and is known for getting incredibly busy and frequently crowded by tourists every year.
Wisconsin: Wisconsin Dells
Waterpark lovers, rejoice! Wisconsin is often hailed as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” and is America’s largest waterpark to date. The Wisconsin Dells features over 20 thrilling indoor and outdoor water parks and over 200 waterslides for tourists to enjoy.
The Dells attracts over 4 million visitors a year, with the summer being the most popular season to visit.
Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a renowned park nestled in Wyoming on 3,500 square miles of wilderness. It attracts over 3 million visitors per year and should be on the top of your bucket list when visiting Wyoming.g
The park is made up of beautiful canyons, wooded forests, hot springs, and gushing geysers, including the infamous Old Faithful. Diverse wildlife roams the land, including bears, elk, bison, wolves, and antelope.