France has its Eiffel Tower, and the United Arab Emirates has its Burj Al Arab. America, on the other hand, is home to unique landmarks that remind citizens of their proud heritage. From natural wonders to artificial creations, here are 15 carefully selected national sites that punctuate the nation’s territory.
Grand Canyon, Arizona
Formed over millennia by the relentless force of the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon’s size and beauty continue to astound visitors. The canyon is a colossal natural phenomenon with a length of about 277 miles, width of 18 miles, and depths exceeding a mile. The layers of vibrant rock colors, ranging from deep reds to earthy browns, clearly illustrate Earth’s geological transformation, spanning billions of years.
Statue of Liberty, New York
Standing at 305 feet, the Statue of Liberty overlooks New York Harbor from Liberty Island. This massive image, sculpted by French artist Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, holds a torch in her right hand. The flaming torch represents enlightenment, while the tablet in her left-hand presents the date of the American Declaration of Independence. At her feet is a broken chain, symbolizing the abolition of slavery.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho
Yellowstone National Park opened in 1872 and is the world’s first national park. Within its vast expanse, the park features several geothermal landforms, like the iconic Old Faithful, and many colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pots. Beyond its geothermal attractions, majestic herds of bison, graceful elks, formidable grizzlies, and other beautiful animals roam its plains and forests.
Golden Gate Bridge, California
The construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, spanning the waters of the Golden Gate Strait, was a feat of architectural ingenuity and human perseverance. With its distinctive orange hue, the bridge blends into the surrounding scenery, offering immaculate views of the skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the rugged cliffs of Marin County. This edifice also facilitates the flow of commerce, connecting communities on either side of the strait.
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore is a colossal tribute to American history and democracy. Carved into the rugged granite face of the mountain are the tall images of four iconic U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The project, conceived by historian Doane Robinson and accomplished by the visionary sculptor Gutzon Borglum, took more than 14 years to finish.
Yosemite National Park, California
This wonderland spans over 1,100 square miles and has various iconic features, like the tall cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome. Home to the indigenous Miwok people, these monolithic landmarks beckon climbers to test their skills. Plus, Yosemite’s waterfalls are among the park’s most enchanting attractions, including Yosemite Falls—the tallest in North America—and Bridalveil Falls, among others.
Independence Hall, Pennsylvania
Independence Hall is unique in the annals of history as the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Here, the founding fathers signed the foundational documents defining America. The site serves as a symbol of the enduring values that are the United States’ foundation. It remains a beacon of inspiration, reminding us of the unyielding spirit of freedom.
Glacier National Park, Montana
At Glacier National Park, more than 130 named lakes shimmer like jewels in the wilderness. The grounds are also home to a rich mix of wildlife, including grizzly bears and the elusive bighorn sheep. Exploring Glacier National Park is like stepping into an art gallery, where you enjoy endless supplies of carefully crafted works of art.
Hoover Dam, Nevada/Arizona
Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel straddling the border between Nevada and Arizona, started operating in 1936 during the Great Depression. Standing at 726 feet and harnessing the mighty Colorado River, it generates vast amounts of electricity, powering homes and industries across the region. Additionally, it facilitates irrigation, ensuring the sustenance of agriculture in the arid landscapes of the American Southwest.
Mount Rainier, Washington
Mount Rainier’s 14,411-foot height makes it the tallest mountain and most identifiable landmark in the Cascade Range. An active stratovolcano, its glacier-clad slopes attract adventurers, scientists, and nature enthusiasts alike. Surrounding its base are vast expanses of old-growth forests, home to diverse flora and fauna, while alpine meadows bloom with vibrant wildflowers during the warmer months.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee
The name evokes the mystical nature of the mist that frequently shrouds the mountain’s peaks, casting an enchanting aura over the region. As the most visited national park in the United States, it beckons millions of visitors yearly. Within its boundaries lies a rich ecosystem, where giant hardwood forests and cascading waterfalls provide habitat for countless species, including white-tailed deer and bird species.
Redwood National and State Parks, California
Earth’s tallest living organisms reside in Redwood National and States Parks. The ancient giants reach heights that defy imagination and ages spanning millennia. As guardians of biodiversity, the two parks protect the redwoods and provide a habitat for countless species of plants and animals. Explorers enjoy the area’s serene trails, towering canopy, and intricate patterns of ferns on the forest floor.
Mount St. Helens, Washington
Mount St. Helens, located in Skamania County, Washington, is an active stratovolcano famous for its explosive eruption on May 18, 1980. The event released a lateral blast that devastated more than 230 square miles of forest, permanently reshaping the terrain and altering river courses. Since then, Mount St. Helens has remained active, with periodic eruptions and seismic activity as a reminder of its volatile characteristics.
Arches National Park, Utah
Over 2,000 natural sandstone arches grace every corner of Arches National Park, each a unique masterpiece of nature’s geological artistry. As the sun brightly shines on the rust-colored rocks, photographers flock to capture the park’s surreal beauty while hikers immerse themselves in a world of towering spires and hidden nooks. Other breathtaking wonders of the park include towering monoliths and ancient petroglyphs.
Ellis Island, New York
From 1892 to 1954, Ellis Island served as the primary immigration station for the United States, processing about 12 million immigrants. Upon arrival, immigrants underwent medical examinations and legal inspections, marking the start of their journey to becoming Americans. The Ellis Island National Museum honors the resilience of those who embarked on this transformative voyage and immortalizes the island’s role in shaping the nation’s character.
