As the third-most visited country in the world, drawing up to 70 million tourists a year, the United States is home to a wealth of attractions. From museums chronicling the nation's history to epic amusement parks, the nation’s most popular places are as diverse as the 50 states they’re located in. With the exception of U.S. national parks, we’ve highlighted the best of the best from Alabama to Wyoming. Which state surprises you the most?
Alabama: U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville
Since the U.S. Space and Rocket Center opened its doors in 1970, it has welcomed more than 17 million visitors — making it the top paid attraction in Alabama. Located in Huntsville, the museum and learning center is popular for its Space Camp program, which inspires thousands of young people to explore careers as astronauts, engineers, and scientists through simulated missions and other hands-on learning. Alumni of the camp have even gone on to work for NASA and ESA (European Space Agency).
Alaska: Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau
Home to some of the most surreal and stunning national parks on Earth, Alaska has its share of natural landmarks that welcome millions of visitors each year. The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center in Juneau, in particular, receives thousands of visitors from docking cruise ships eager to see the famous glacier. The contemporary center chronicles the glacier’s history and environmental impact through interactive exhibits.
Arizona: Chapel of the Holy Cross, Sedona
Home of the Grand Canyon, Arizona is one of the most visited states in the country, and for good reason. Its natural beauty is unparalleled — you won’t find red rocks in many places around the world. The small city of Sedona is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations in the state, and a record-breaking 3.7 million people climbed the hill to see the stunning view from the Chapel of the Holy Cross in 2021. Jutting out of a thousand-foot rock wall, the chapel is 250 feet tall and welcomes people of all faiths.
Arkansas: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville
Featuring a renowned collection ranging from Rockwell to Warhol, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in the Ozarks is a national treasure. The architectural marvel sits on 120 acres and admission to the museum and trails is completely free. The attraction welcomes thousands of visitors each year who flock to see impressive masterpieces with even more impressive price tags; the most valuable painting at the museum is Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Jimson Weed/White Flower No. 1,” which sold for a whopping $44.4 million!
California: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge is arguably the most famous bridge in the world, and is visited by 10 million people each year. Many of these visitors simply drive across the bridge on U.S. Highway 101, but you can score a better view of the famous San Francisco landmark at Crissy Field, Hawk Hill, or Baker Beach. After you’ve snapped the perfect photo, learn more about the famous bridge’s history at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center.
Colorado: Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs
Colorado is home to 58 “fourteeners” — mountains that reach more than 14,000 feet above sea level — but you don’t have to make such an arduous climb to see the jaw-dropping beauty of Garden of the Gods, located just outside Colorado Springs. Up to 4.5 million people visit the less than 1,400-square-foot park each year to see the magnificent red rock formations jut out of the earth. Visit in winter to see the snow-capped Rockies in the distance — it’s a heavenly experience.
Connecticut: Mystic Seaport Museum, Stonington
The nation’s leading maritime museum is located in the charming seaport town of Stonington. Thousands of visitors walk the halls of the Mystic Seaport Museum to see the impressive collection of nautical instruments, artwork, ship carvings, and sailboats and other historic vessels. Museum goers also have the opportunity to see a recreated 19th-century seaport village.
Delaware: Rehoboth Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach
Stretching a mile long, the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is one of the country’s oldest boardwalks (it was built in 1873!) and is lined with old-fashioned ice cream parlors, toy stores, amusement rides, and much more — making it the most popular place in Delaware. In 2021, a recorded 10 million visitors sunbathed on the sandy stretch and walked the historic path.
Florida: Walt Disney World, Orlando
When it opened in October 1971, Walt Disney World only charged an admission fee of $3.50, and 400,00 people visited that same month. Today, the park's popularity hasn't waned, thanks to its 280 rides (and counting). The “Happiest Place on Earth” welcomes more than 58 million people annually, making it the most visited vacation resort in the world — and the most popular spot in Florida.
Georgia: Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta
With more than 11 million gallons of waters in its tanks, the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is the largest aquarium in the world — home to more than 100,000 sea creatures. Nearly 3 million people visit the site annually, which makes it the No. 1 tourist attraction in the state of Georgia.
Hawaii: Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, Honolulu
December 7, 1941, is a day that still lives in infamy, and many Americans honor those who lost their lives in the attack on Pearl Harbor by visiting the U.S. naval base in Honolulu. The USS Arizona Memorial receives 1.7 million visitors from around the world each year, making it one of the most frequented attractions in Hawaii.
Idaho: Shoshone Falls, Twin Falls
More than 1.5 million tourists stop to see the majesty and power of the “Niagara Falls of the West” on the Snake River in Twin Falls, Idaho each year. Named for the Indigenous people who call the area home, Shoshone Falls is one of the largest natural waterfalls in the U.S. and 45 feet taller than Niagara Falls.
Illinois: Cloud Gate, Chicago
Also known as “the Bean,” “Cloud Gate” by British artist Anish Kapoor is one of the most popular pieces of public art in the world. Constructed between 2004 and 2006, the 110-ton elliptical sculpture is made of 168 stainless steel plates that reflect the skyline and curious tourists crowding beneath. The Bean has become an iconic Chicago landmark, drawing 25 million visitors each year.
Indiana: Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Indianapolis
Home of the Indy 500 and the Brickyard 400, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a must-see for NASCAR fans and others with a need for speed. Hailed as the “Racing Capital of the World,” Indianapolis draws more than 1 million tourists annually — a major economical boost for the state capital.
Iowa: Field of Dreams, Dyersville
The 1989 movie Field of Dreams was a pop culture sensation — inspiring thousands to journey to Dyersville, Iowa, to see the mythical baseball field and play next to the famous cornfield. The movie site is named after the film, and visitors can wander the grounds, visit the gift shop, and attend events inspired by the movie.
Kansas: Sedgwick County Zoo, Wichita
An award-winning wildlife park and the most popular attraction in Kansas, the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita receives 650,000 annual visitors eager to spot 400 species of animals. From feeding giraffes to taking a boat ride to spot gorillas and elephants, the zoo is beloved by families who venture to this Midwestern state.
Kentucky: Churchill Downs, Louisville
Hosting the Kentucky Derby since it first opened in 1875, Churchill Downs is more than just a famous horseracing complex — it’s a part of American history. The Louisville landmark sees up to 150,000 spectators on race day, but visitors can learn more about Thoroughbreds and the history of the race from exhibits at the Kentucky Derby Museum and have a sip at the Bourbon Bar any time of year.
Louisiana: French Quarter, New Orleans
Often called the “Crown Jewel of New Orleans,” the French Quarter is filled with historic homes boasting elaborate cast-iron balconies, colorful Creole cottages, beignet shops, swanky bars, and luxury boutiques selling handmade Mardi Gras masks and other art. It’s the first stop on any first timer’s itinerary, which means it welcomes millions of tourists annually.
Maine: Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth
The oldest lighthouse in Maine was completed in 1791, and it still stands as a beacon of beauty in Cape Elizabeth. Portland Head Light is a quintessential New England site, drawing nearly 1 million visitors each year and easily maintaining its status as one of the state’s most popular (and picturesque) attractions.
Maryland: National Aquarium, Baltimore
With more than 1 million visitors each year, the National Aquarium in Baltimore is Maryland’s top attraction. The modern museum features award-winning exhibits, such as recreated salt marsh habitats resembling those that existed in Baltimore hundreds of years ago, a 225,000- gallon shark tank nicknamed “Shark Alley,” an animal rescue center, and the aquarium’s largest exhibit featuring six bottlenose dolphins.
Massachusetts: Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston
Roughly 20 million people pass through Boston’s historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace every year, but it wasn’t always a bustling shopping center with stores and restaurants. The hall served as a meeting place of the American Revolution, later expanding into a market in 1806. Today, the landmark in the heart of Boston is seventh most-visited tourist destination in the world.
Michigan: Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is one of the most-visited destinations in the Midwest — welcoming 1 million tourists each year. Located in Lake Huron between the Upper and Lower peninsulas, the idyllic island is home to the Grand Hotel, a historic property that has been a beloved summer retreat since the 1800s; a lively downtown that inspired the architecture of Disneyland; and Mackinac Island State Park, which was once the second official U.S. national park after Yellowstone.
Minnesota: Mall of America, Bloomington
The sprawling four-level Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is the largest mall in the United States and is visited by a whopping 40 million people every year! Notable attractions inside the massive complex include the Crayola Experience, where kids can color and learn about the magic behind the famous art supply brand; FlyOver America amusement park, which features flight simulations over scenic landscapes; and the Nickelodeon Universe theme park with rides inspired by the children’s TV network.
Mississippi: Vicksburg National Military Park, Vicksburg
Roughly 410,000 people visited Vicksburg National Military Park in 2022, and the state’s No. 1 attraction is becoming so popular that legislation recently approved an upgrade. The park preserves the site of the American Civil War Battle of Vicksburg — arguably the most pivotal combat in the war.
Missouri: Gateway Arch, St. Louis
The “Gateway to the West” stands as a testament to the city of St. Louis’ role in the Westward Expansion of the nation in the 19th century, and roughly 1.6 million people flocked to the landmark in 2022. The Gateway Arch is 630 feet tall and is the country’s tallest human-made monument.
Montana: Big Sky Resort, Big Sky
With 38 lifts and 5,800 acres of terrain across three peaks, Big Sky Resort in southwestern Montana receives upwards of 700,000 annual visitors, making it the most-visited attraction in the state. The resort is named after Montana’s official state nickname, and after witnessing the majesty of the Rockies, it’s not hard to see why.
Nebraska: Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha
Featuring 160 acres of plant and animal exhibits, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha is a favorite for those visiting Nebraska — welcoming 1 million tourists each year. With a butterfly and insect pavilion, sea lion center, orangutan forest, and a desert dome, there’s adventure around every corner.
Nevada: The Strip, Las Vegas
Roughly 41 million people head to the Las Vegas Strip each year to visit dozens of casinos, watch the dancing water at the Fountains of Bellagio, or see one of the hundreds of shows available year-round. According to NASA, the Strip is actually the brightest place on Earth due to such a high concentration of hotels, casinos, and attractions.
New Hampshire: Kancamagus Highway
This scenic stretch through White Mountain National Forest along New Hampshire Route 112 is driven by 750,000 vehicles each year, easily making it the No. 1 attraction in the state. Fall is especially popular for leaf peepers who stop at Hancock, Sugar Hill, and Pemi overlooks to witness the splendor of the state’s foliage.
New Jersey: Liberty State Park, Jersey City
Attracting more than 5 million tourists every year, Liberty State Park in Jersey City offers unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island, plus miles of tree-lined walkways, picnic tables, and playgrounds. The best part? The state park is totally free.
New Mexico: Santa Fe Plaza, Santa Fe
The historic Santa Fe Plaza lined with adobe Talavera pottery shops, art galleries, Mexican restaurants, and the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (the oldest church in the United States) is explored by roughly 1.5 million tourists each year. The heart of the city for nearly 400 years, the plaza is the perfect place to explore one of the state’s most remarkable cities.
New York: Times Square, New York City
As the largest city in the U.S. with more than 8.5 million residents, New York City isn’t lacking when it comes to entertainment. The No. 1 attraction visited by roughly 50 million tourists annually is Times Square. Due to the high volume of traffic, an ad on one of the big screens in Times Square starts at $500 for 20 plays of a 15-second ad.
North Carolina: Biltmore Estate, Asheville
Roughly 1.4 million people head to Asheville each year to see America’s largest private home, the Biltmore Estate. With 8,000 acres of manicured grounds, a winery, 250 rooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces, the French Renaissance château is more akin to Versailles than any other property you’d find in the U.S.
North Dakota: Dakota Zoo, Bismarck
The Dakota Zoo on the banks of the Missouri River sees 150,000 visitors each year and is beloved by families in Greater Bismarck and visitors to the state. From a raptor rehabilitation center to a Lewis and Clark exhibit chronicling the 122 species the two explorers studied on their famous expedition, the zoo offers innovative features for hands-on learning.
Ohio: Cedar Point, Sandusky
The second-oldest continuously operating amusement park in the country, Cedar Point has been selling tickets to its thrilling rides since 1870! Roughly 3.2 million people visited the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World” in 2022, making it the top attraction in Ohio.
Oklahoma: Myriad Botanical Gardens, Oklahoma City
More than 1 million people visit Oklahoma City’s most beautiful greenspace each year. At Myriad Botanical Gardens, guests can explore 15 acres of bulb displays and other blossoms, as well as the stunning Crystal Bridge Conservatory, which is home to tropical flora and a 35-foot-tall waterfall.
Oregon: Multnomah Falls
The most-visited attraction in Oregon is a mere 30-minute drive from downtown Portland, but you’ll feel worlds away as you witness the beauty of the cascade from the bridge in the Columbia River Gorge. With more than 2 million visitors per year, the famous waterfall isn’t only the No. 1 attraction in the state, but one of the most trafficked locales in the entire Pacific Northwest.
Pennsylvania: Independence National Historic Park, Philadelphia
More than 5 million tourists visit Independence National Historic Park each year to see some of the most important sites in early American history. Notable sites within the park include Independence Hall — where the Founding Fathers drafted the Declaration of Independence, Christ Church Burial Ground — where Benjamin Franklin and George Washington are buried, and the Liberty Bell.
Rhode Island: The Breakers, Newport
The Gilded Age mansion known as “The Breakers” was built between 1893 and 1895 in Newport, Rhode Island, and receives 450,000 visitors annually. Considered to be the grandest of Newport’s summer cottages, The Breakers was owned by Cornelius Vanderbilt II and was named for the waves that crash into the nearby cliffs.
South Carolina: Charleston City Market, Charleston
The historic Charleston City Market stretches for four city blocks and is lined with vendors selling everything from saltwater taffy to handpainted Christmas ornaments made of oyster shells. Foot traffic in the market complex has increased heavily in the past few decades, and thanks to docking cruise ships, the number of visitors has reached the millions.
South Dakota: Mount Rushmore, Keystone
The four heads carved into the Black Hills of South Dakota depict American Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Construction on Mount Rushmore began in 1927, but the monument remains unfinished. More than 2 million people visit the site each year.
Tennessee: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge
Dollywood is nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains and is one of Tennessee’s most popular attractions — drawing more than 3 million tourists annually! Country singer-songwriter Dolly Parton herself owns the amusement park, which is home to numerous coasters for kids; the Rockin’ Roadway, where you can drive your own mini Cadillac, Corvette, or Thunderbird; and a replica of Dolly’s childhood home, among other attractions.
Texas: The River Walk, San Antonio
More than 11.5 million people explore the River Walk from the banks or by boat in San Antonio each year, making it Texas’ No 1. attraction. Work on the River Walk began in 1929 as part of the New Deal Program to help pull America out of the Great Depression and today, the waterway is the livelihood of San Antonio — featuring al fresco restaurants, bridges with twinking lights, and live music around every bend.
Utah: Temple Square, Salt Lake City
An estimated 3 to 5 million people from around the world visit Temple Square, a 10-acre complex owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as the Mormon Church. The stunning structures encompass five city blocks in Salt Lake City and are especially riveting at night when illuminated.
Vermont: Church Street Marketplace, Burlington
Roughly 1.5 million people stroll the brick paths through Church Street Marketplace in Burlington each year. Visitors can explore the 100+ shops, restaurants, small businesses across four blocks and the pedestrian-only walkway is often buzzing with farmers market stands, festival booths, and other attractions. It might seem like a historic road, but the path was only built in 1981.
Virginia: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington
Tourists spending a weekend in the nation’s capital often cross the Potomac to the Virginia side to pay their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the grave of John F. Kennedy, and the many white headstones marking military members who lost their lives at important battles throughout American history. Roughly 3 million people walk the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery each year.
Washington: Pike Place Market, Seattle
With 10 million annual visitors, Pike Place Market is never sleepy, even on a rainy day. Eating chocolate-covered Rainier cherries, watching fishermen throw their catch of the day, and shopping underground in some of the eclectic book and memorabilia shops are only some of amazing ways to experience the market that has been operating since 1907.
West Virginia: Harpers Ferry National Historic Park, Harpers Ferry
At the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, Harpers Ferry is a charming town where visitors can learn more about Civil War history, access hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains like the famous Appalachian National Trail, and visit the many historic candy and souvenir shops downtown. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park sees 300,000 visitors a year who come to uncover the city’s offerings.
Wisconsin: Mount Olympus Water and Theme Park, Wisconsin Dells
Northwest of Madison, Wisconsin Dells lies on the Wisconsin River and has become a getaway for locals and tourists looking for thrills. The most-frequented amusement park in Wisconsin Dellls is Mount Olympus Water and Theme Park which draws 1.3 million visitors annually.
Wyoming: National Elk Refuge, Jackson Hole
Created in 1912 to protect the habitat of elk near Jackson Hole, the National Elk Refuge is the most-visited attraction in the state (after Yellowstone National Park) with 1 million visitors annually. With interpretive displays at an indoor learning center and more 24,700 acres of grasslands, wetlands, and forests, the refuge is a sanctuary for one of the largest herds in the country.
