Instagram has more than a billion users, and the platform has succeeded in making travel photography and selfies a rite of passage for many adventurers. The platform has also given tremendous exposure to previously hidden gems across the country, shining a light on some of the United States' most beautiful spots. Whether you’re planning your travel bucket list or just love exploring photogenic places, get ready to catch a case of serious wanderlust with these top instagrammable locations in the United States.
Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
Set in northern Arizona near the town of Page, this beautiful spot has exploded in popularity primarily for its unique sharp bend in the Salt River. Venture here sunset for stunning lighting. The main photo opp from the cliffside overlook requires a ¾-mile hike, but the view is definitely worth it.
Big Sur, California
This stunning stretch of coastline runs along the Pacific Ocean from Carmel to San Simeon, with numerous photogenic stop points along the way. This part of coastal California features towering redwoods, massive cliffs, secluded beaches and the St. Lucia Mountains, which rise dramatically up from the coast to give photos a strong backdrop. One of the loveliest views in Big Sur is of the Bixby Bridge, a concrete arch connecting two remote cliffs with incredible ocean views.
Nā Pali Coast State Park, Kauai Island, Hawaii
With towering cliffs covered in emerald vegetation, unreal turquoise water, and a serious tropical vibe, Nā Pali Coast State Park is one of the best Instagram spots in the country. It’s a major destination for self-proclaimed beach bums and adventurers who capture their photos from the air and from the ocean. The Aloha State has plenty of gorgeous spots, but there's something about this dramatic scenery that embodies Hawaii's pure natural beauty.
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
The Tetons are a 40-mile stretch of jagged mountains in northwestern Wyoming, and no matter what angle you view them from they are staggering. The surrounding Grand Teton National Park encompasses 480-square miles of pristine wilderness that includes mountains, valleys, fields and forests. At 13,775 feet, Grand Teton is the tallest mountain in the park and a beautiful backdrop to many gorgeous landscape shots. One of the most photographed spots in Grand Teton National Park is the Moulton Barn, which is located in the Mormon Row Historic District and is maintained by the National Park Service.
Bar Harbor, Maine
The gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Maine is a quintessential East Coast town. With cold rocky beaches, quaint dockside stores and lighthouses scattered along cliff sides, this region has plenty to love. Be the first in the U.S. to see the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain or just walk the beaches and dip your toes into the chilly water if you dare.
New York City, New York
What could be more American than New York City? Impossibly skyscrapers, famous bridges, long avenues crowded with pedestrians and yellow cabs this famous city is full to bursting with instagrammable spots. From the shady paths of Central Park to colorful murals of Soho and the glimmering steel of Wall Street buildings, there's a lot of love for photographers in this city.
Yosemite National Park, California
One of the oldest and most popular national parks in the country, Yosemite's vast and varied landscape makes it an awesome spot for photography. The park features huge granite peaks, giant sequoia trees and the tallest waterfall in the United States. There are endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic drives, and even if you stay within the relatively small confines of Yosemite Valley, you’ll find breathtaking landscapes in every direction.
Seaside, Florida
While many photographers and beachgoers head straight for Miami or South Beach, this smaller coastal town is as picturesque as they come. A main filming location for the Jim Carrey movie "The Truman Show" the adorable town of Seaside is pure colorful joy. Pastel-hued homes line white sand beaches and every day is another chance to capture something beautiful.
