15 Stunning Destinations You Won’t Believe Are In America
A vacation to the United States isn’t complete without seeing at least one of the country’s gorgeous destinations. From New York to California, here are 15 stunning destinations you won’t believe are in America.
1) Yellowstone National Park
Located in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park is one of the most beautiful places in America. Boasting a spectacular array of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, Yellowstone is a must-see for any traveler. Whether you’re looking to explore the geothermal wonders of Old Faithful or just take in the view, there’s something for everyone here.
If you’re planning a visit to Yellowstone, be sure to book a room at one of the many hotels in the area. From rustic cabins to luxury resorts, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from. Plus, staying at a hotel near Yellowstone can give you access to the park’s many activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an exciting adventure, you can find something to suit your needs here. So start planning your trip today and don’t forget to book a room at a nearby hotel!
2) Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re looking for a stunning national park to explore in the US, look no further than Joshua Tree National Park! Located in southeastern California, this protected area is home to the famed Joshua trees, fascinating rock formations, and a wide variety of desert wildlife. Whether you’re hiking up rocky trails, camping under the stars, or simply taking in the scenery, Joshua Tree has something to offer everyone.
The park spans nearly 800,000 acres and is divided into two distinct ecosystems: the Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. This division creates a unique landscape that is full of cacti, wildflowers, and stunning vistas of mountains and plains. The area is also known for its dramatic night sky views; you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot stars and planets twinkling above you.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a weeklong excursion, Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing destination to visit. With its majestic beauty and captivating wildlife, it’s sure to be a trip you’ll never forget!
3) The Wave-Arizona
Located in the Coyote Buttes North area of the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, The Wave is an incredible rock formation that looks like a wave crashing against the shore. Arizona’s famous sandstone formation is beloved by photographers and outdoor adventurers alike, and it’s no wonder why.
The Wave is composed of two main sandstone layers that have been eroded into a multitude of swirls and curves. The unique coloration comes from the different mineral concentrations in the rock, giving The Wave its dazzling and eye-catching appearance. The soft curves, undulating lines, and warm hues make The Wave one of the most spectacular natural wonders in America.
The Wave is a popular destination for hikers who want to experience the beauty of the Southwest desert up close. However, access to The Wave is restricted due to its fragility and popularity. In order to visit The Wave, visitors must enter a lottery system and obtain a permit.
If you’re lucky enough to get a permit, you can experience the breathtaking beauty of The Wave in person. Whether you’re an avid photographer or just looking to explore the incredible outdoors of Arizona, The Wave is definitely worth a visit!
4) Horseshoe Bend-Arizona
Have you ever dreamed of traveling to a place so breathtakingly beautiful that you feel as if you’ve stepped into a postcard? If so, Horseshoe Bend in Arizona should be your destination.
Situated in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, just south of Page, Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is an incredible sight to behold. The bend in the Colorado River is an amazing spectacle, with stunning red rock formations and walls stretching hundreds of feet above the river’s edge.
Hiking to the bend is a great way to take in the magnificent scenery. From the parking area, it’s only a short walk down to the overlook point. Visitors can marvel at the stunning view and capture some truly awe-inspiring photos of the bend below.
For those wanting to go on a longer adventure, there are plenty of trails and activities around Horseshoe Bend. Boating, fishing, and camping are all popular activities at the nearby Lake Powell. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider exploring some of the other canyons in the region.
No matter how you choose to experience Horseshoe Bend, you will surely be amazed by its beauty and majesty. So make sure to add this incredible destination to your list of must-see places in America.
5) Antelope Canyon-Arizona
When you think of incredible destinations in America, Arizona probably comes to mind. But few people realize the beauty and wonder that lies beneath the surface in Arizona. Antelope Canyon is one of those secret wonders – and it’s definitely worth a visit.
Located near Page, Arizona, Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon made up of stunning sandstone formations and swirling curves. This breathtaking landscape is created by the erosion of sandstone caused by water and wind over thousands of years. With its unique shapes and colors, Antelope Canyon looks like something out of a dream.
Visitors can explore the canyon either on foot or by taking a guided tour. The most popular tour is the Upper Antelope Canyon Tour, which offers spectacular views of the canyon’s deep canyons and unique rock formations. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, try the Lower Antelope Canyon Tour. This tour takes you through some of the canyon’s less-visited areas, where you can explore in peace and admire the intricate beauty of this natural wonder.
No matter how you choose to experience Antelope Canyon, you’ll be amazed by its beauty. If you’re looking for an unforgettable destination that’s full of natural wonder, add Antelope Canyon to your travel list – you won’t be disappointed!
6) White Sands National Monument-New Mexico
If you’re looking for a unique and stunning destination in the United States, White Sands National Monument in New Mexico is a must-see. This breathtaking site features 275 square miles of gypsum sand dunes, making it the largest gypsum dunefield in the world. Not only is this site beautiful, it also offers plenty of activities to do! Visitors can take in the incredible views while they camp, hike, explore the desert and stargaze. The dunes are constantly shifting and changing shape, so it’s easy to create your own adventure here. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an adrenaline rush, White Sands National Monument has something for everyone.
7) Carlsbad Caverns National Park-New Mexico
Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Caverns National Park is a stunning and unique destination for visitors from all over the world. Formed by ancient limestone, the park is home to over 119 known caves, including the famous Carlsbad Caverns.
The park is filled with natural wonders, such as its lush vegetation, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views of the Guadalupe Mountains. Visitors can explore the winding and intricate passageways of the caverns through walking tours, self-guided audio tours, or ranger-guided hikes.
At the center of the park is the Big Room, a massive cave chamber featuring dramatic stalactites and stalagmites that have been forming since the beginning of time. From June to October, visitors can witness the nightly bat flights where thousands of bats exit the cave in search of food.
Other activities include outdoor recreation such as hiking, bird watching, and camping. There are also educational programs for those looking to learn more about the area’s history and geology. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is truly a unique place to explore and discover!
8) Mesa Verde National Park-Colorado
Nestled away in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is a stunning sight to behold. It is one of the largest archaeological preserves in the United States, containing some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the world. Here, visitors can explore the remains of these ancient Native Americans, as well as take in breathtaking views of the vast mesas and canyons that make up the park.
At Mesa Verde, visitors have the opportunity to take guided tours through some of the most iconic ruins, such as Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House. Both sites offer incredible views of the ancient dwellings, allowing visitors to get a glimpse into what life was like for these ancient people hundreds of years ago. Aside from taking tours, visitors can also explore the many trails and roads that wind through the park and admire its unique landscape.
Mesa Verde is an incredible destination that should not be missed by anyone looking to explore and experience the beauty of America. Its impressive array of archaeological sites, as well as its breathtaking views, make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
9) Crater Lake National Park-Oregon
If you’re looking for stunning, unspoiled beauty in the United States, then look no further than Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. This majestic national park is home to the deepest lake in the United States, the picturesque and mysterious Crater Lake.
The lake was formed over 6,000 years ago when Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, leaving a caldera – or crater – that filled with water over time. The lake is about 1,943 feet deep, making it the deepest lake in the country and one of the deepest in the world. It is also the cleanest and clearest large body of water in the world, meaning that visitors can see up to 100 feet deep into its crystal clear waters.
The stunning blue color of the lake comes from two factors: firstly, the intense clarity of the water, which reflects the sky and surrounding vegetation. Secondly, it has a high concentration of dissolved salts which increases its refractive index, making it appear brighter and more vivid.
The lake is an incredible sight to behold, surrounded by cliffs that were formed by glaciers during the last ice age and towering pinnacles called Wizard Island. Visitors can explore these majestic landscapes with a hike around the lake, a boat tour, or by taking a scenic drive. With some of the best stargazing on the west coast, visitors can enjoy the stars from Crater Lake’s spectacular night skies.
Crater Lake National Park is truly a hidden gem in America, offering visitors a chance to experience natural beauty unlike any other. Don’t miss out on this breathtaking location!
10) Glacier National Park-Montana
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, Glacier National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful destination you won’t want to miss. The park is home to over 130 named lakes, 700 miles of streams and rivers, and more than 1 million acres of rugged wilderness. Its glacier-carved peaks and valleys offer some of the most spectacular views in the country.
From hiking trails to waterfalls to wildlife sightings, Glacier National Park has something for everyone. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, head to the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a winding two-lane highway that cuts through the park’s alpine meadows and forests. On the way, take in the breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and cascading waterfalls.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, take a boat ride across Lake McDonald or explore Avalanche Creek and St. Mary Lake on foot. Or just find a spot and take in the scenery – you’ll be amazed by how much there is to explore.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just some peaceful scenery, Glacier National Park has something for everyone. Make sure to add this stunning destination to your list of places to visit in America!
11) Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve-Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Colorado is truly a unique experience. Located just outside of the small town of Alamosa, the park is home to towering sand dunes which reach over 750 feet tall. These awe-inspiring dunes are one of the tallest in North America, making them an incredible sight to behold.
The area is also home to a variety of wildlife including prairie dogs, elk, bighorn sheep, and raptors such as eagles and hawks. The Great Sand Dunes are also a popular destination for visitors who love to explore the area on foot, horseback, or even on a sand board or sled.
If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure like no other, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is definitely worth the trip. It’s an amazing place to explore the unique beauty of Colorado and make memories that will last a lifetime.
12) Death Valley National Park-California
Death Valley National Park in California is an awe-inspiring place of beauty and serenity. Located in the Mojave Desert, this park is home to stunning desert landscapes, rugged mountains, deep canyons, and vast sand dunes. It is one of the hottest and driest places on the planet and experiences temperatures of over 120 degrees Fahrenheit in summer months.
This incredible park offers plenty to do, from hiking, biking, and camping to 4×4 exploration and wildlife viewing. Some of the most popular attractions include Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level, as well as Artist’s Drive, a nine-mile scenic loop that offers breathtaking views of multicolored rocks. Another must-see spot is Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where you can explore the large sand dunes and even climb to the top for spectacular views.
With its unique scenery and extreme climate, Death Valley National Park is one destination you won’t want to miss. Whether you are looking for an adventure or a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Death Valley is an unforgettable place to visit.
13) Mount Rainier National Park-Washington
Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state is a destination like no other. This stunning national park offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty of the Cascade Mountains, pristine alpine meadows, lush forests, and a host of wildlife that can be found here.
One of the most iconic features of this national park is Mount Rainier itself. This active volcano stands at 14,410 feet tall and dominates the skyline, offering amazing views from all angles. You can take in the sights from a variety of different trails, some of which lead you to breathtaking waterfalls and valleys. If you’re looking for a challenge, there are also longer treks available that will take you up to the summit of the mountain.
Another great thing about Mount Rainier National Park is the incredible variety of wildlife that can be spotted here. From bald eagles and elk to bears and marmots, there’s something for everyone to marvel at! Additionally, visitors may even be lucky enough to spot some of the unique wildflowers that grow in the area.
Finally, one of the best parts of visiting Mount Rainier National Park is the opportunity to get away from it all and reconnect with nature. With numerous camping spots, cabins, and lodges available, it’s easy to find a spot where you can truly relax and enjoy your surroundings.
No matter what type of outdoor adventure you’re looking for, Mount Rainier National Park has something for everyone. From breathtaking views to incredible wildlife encounters, you won’t believe this beautiful destination is located right here in America!
14) Olympic National Park-Washington
Olympic National Park in Washington State is a stunning destination you won’t believe is in America! This beautiful park offers a wide variety of scenery, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines to mountain peaks and glaciers. The park covers over 922,000 acres, so it’s no wonder that visitors from all over the world come to explore its breathtaking beauty.
The most popular attraction at Olympic National Park is the majestic Mount Olympus, the tallest peak in the Olympic Mountains. On a clear day, hikers can see miles and miles of unspoiled wilderness from the summit. Visitors can also find plenty of other activities in the park, such as camping, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching.
No matter how you choose to explore Olympic National Park, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views in America. With its diverse terrain and stunning views, it’s no wonder that Olympic National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the United States!
15) Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park-Colorado
Located in the western part of Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is one of the most stunning and underrated destinations in America. Nestled between majestic mountain peaks, this park offers breathtaking views of the canyon that stretches over 2000 feet deep and only 40 feet wide at its narrowest point.
The steep canyon walls and rugged landscape make it one of the most beautiful places to explore in the US. Visitors can hike along the rim of the canyon, or take a boat tour along the Gunnison River to get up close and personal with the canyon walls. Rock climbers can even ascend the imposing cliff faces that dominate the canyon walls.
No matter how you choose to experience it, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is sure to take your breath away. From incredible sunsets and starry night skies, to dramatic landscapes and wildlife sightings, it’s an unforgettable destination you won’t want to miss.
