If you are planning a trip to the United States and only know the major sites, know that there are many “hidden gems” in this country that can help you see both historic sites and some fun “pop culture” sites. It will take a little bit of research and planning, but this handy guide can help get you started. The following are top 10 state landmarks in the United States for your reference.
Top 10 State Landmarks In United States
1. The Statue of Liberty, New York
This historic state landmarks signifies all of the immigrants that built this country. As their boats floated into the New York harbor, people knew they had found their new home, new opportunity and common goals. It was designed and built in France and given to the United States on the 100th anniversary of the country’s independence from England. Visitors take a boat out to the island where it sits, Liberty Island. You can climb 354 steps all the way up to the crown of the statue and look all over New York City and the harbor.
2. The National Mall, Washington D.C.
No one can deny this is one of the most popular destinations among all the state landmarks. The National Mall is centered in the United States capitol and hosts museums, monuments and federal buildings. Its park-like setting is perfect for walking along the Potomac River while taking in the sights and history.
One historical memory this place echoes is the “I have a dream” speech by Martin Luther King. The mall has also hosted marches for many other causes that affect human rights all over the world, like the AIDS quilt, Vietnam memorial, culture and diversity.
3. Niagara Falls, New York
These awe inspiring water falls have been attracting viewers since the 1600’s. Visited by millions of people each year, these falls are definite state landmarks that will give you the experience of a lifetime. Walk out onto the observation decks and feel the gentle mist, hear the mighty roar of rushing water and even ride a boat up close and personal to these majestic falls.
There are plenty of photo-ops for you and your family in front, on the side or below the falls. There are lots of facts to learn about the falls and plenty to do in the visitor’s center.
4. Kennedy Space Center, Florida
Before you leave the East Coast and head out west, make a stop at the United States home of NASA. This is where the 1969 trip to the moon took off from and gave it a special place in history. The park is full of exhibits that give you an in-depth peek at the history of space exploration from moon walks to shuttle trips.
Many visitors to the center warn it is an all-day or even two-day experience, and you could miss things if you don’t know where to go. It is highly suggested to reserve a bus tour of the facility for your best experience.
5. Grand Canyon, Arizona
Are you a fan of cowboy films? Then you have to include this state landmark into your plan! The deserts in the western United States are some of the most scenic in the world and the Grand Canyon is quite a site to see! You can hop in a helicopter for an aerial view, or walk out onto a “glass bottom skywalk” to view the bottom of the canyon under your feet–not for the faint hearted, but exhilarating!
6. Hoover Dam, Nevada
If you travel north of Arizona, the Hoover Dam is a technological marvel. It is 726 feet high and weighs 6,600,000 tons of concrete, and the gates release 73,000 cubic feet of water per second (one cubic foot of water is about 7.5 gallons). To see the water flow through the dam is really a sight! And the tour of the power plant is educational for the entire family to learn how water generates power.
7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
This is the very first National Park in the United States and covers over 2.2 million acres of natural beauty. This is a highly volcanic area and is the home to many geysers—the heated water that shoots up out of the earth. Yellowstone is also the home to the most famous “Old Faithful” which is a nationally known treasure. You will also enjoy the numerous species of mountain wildlife, from grizzly bears, buffalo, deer, bison, elk to a very large wolf population. You really can't miss this one of a kind state landmark.
8. The Space Needle, Seattle, Washington
Among all the breathtaking views in the United States, the Seattle Space Needle is at the top of the list. You can see all of Seattle, Washington from the panoramic observation deck over 500 feet up in the air. The structure was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and was designed by a German artist. There is a revolving restaurant at the 500 foot level where you can eat while watching the views all around you. You can either get to the top by climbing all 848 steps, or take the elevator that lifts you up at over 800 feet per minute!
9. The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco California
This is no ordinary bridge but one of “the Seven Wonders of the World.” This bridge spans 1.7 miles between San Francisco and Marin County across the San Francisco bay. Construction began in 1933 and the bridge opened in 1937. You can enjoy a guided tour for the best experience, or cross the bridge either on foot or in a vehicle. Just don’t forget to go and see the view from the top of the south tower. You will for sure be amazed!
10. U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, Honolulu Hawaii
December 7, 1941 was a very dark day for the United States. It was the day the Japanese led an attack on Pearl Harbor and sunk the U.S.S. Arizona. On the ship, over 1, 100 lives were lost with the explosion as the ship was hit. This somber memorial has tours of the actual ship, plus other museums dedicated to naval warfare, submarines and aviation.
