Tourism across the United States reveals not just its geographical diversity but also the wide range of experiences available, from natural wonders to historic sites and modern attractions.
Now, the travel website Explore has rounded up the most-visited tourist spots in every state, and Newsweek has put the results into a new map.
East Coast Highlights
On the East Coast, states such as New York and Massachusetts draw millions to landmarks rich in history and culture.
Times Square in New York City remains the state’s most popular tourist destination. With its neon lights and digital billboards, Times Square pulls in nearly 330,000 pedestrians every day, making it the beating heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
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Further north in Massachusetts, Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston is the biggest draw. Established in 1742, this historic site, once a meeting place for revolutionaries like Samuel Adams, now functions as a bustling market and public space.
Nature and National Parks
The United States is famous for its national parks, and these natural wonders remain major tourist draws in several states.
In Arizona, the Grand Canyon National Park attracts five million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular parks in the country. Considered one of the “Seven Wonders of the World,” the Grand Canyon is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming remains a key attraction. Known for its geothermal features such as the Old Faithful geyser, every year it welcomes tourists who come to marvel at its unique landscapes, wildlife, and hot springs.
In Utah, Zion National Park is another popular destination, famous for its sandstone cliffs and narrow canyons.
Urban and Cultural Attractions
Modern landmarks and cultural institutions continue to bring in large numbers of visitors.
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In Illinois, Millennium Park in Chicago, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (popularly known as “The Bean”), welcomes visitors each year, the park serves as an oasis amid the skyscrapers, offering green space, art installations, and frequent public events that make it a year-round destination for tourists and locals alike.
In California, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco remains a top destination. The bridge, with its striking “International Orange” color, stands as a symbol of both the city and the state.
On the opposite coast, Florida’s Walt Disney World in Orlando is a family favorite, offering attractions for all ages, from rides to character meet-and-greets, ensuring its place as one of the most beloved destinations in the U.S.
Historic Sites
For history buffs, several states boast top-tier historic attractions that offer a window into America’s past.
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In South Dakota, Mount Rushmore remains a significant draw, the massive carvings of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln carved into the Black Hills granite have come to symbolize the nation’s history and ideals.
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In Tennessee, Graceland, the former home of Elvis Presley, stands as one of the most visited house museums in the United States, fans of the “King of Rock and Roll” come from all over the world to tour his Memphis mansion and pay their respects at his gravesite.
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