Our Beautiful United States, A-Z
Written on June 18, 2026
From coast to coast, the United States boasts so many beautiful destinations. Here are a few, alphabet-style:
A is for Arches National Park (Utah)
This eye-catching park is home to over 2,000 natural arches, millions of years in the making. The Delicate Arch, an iconic massive red rock structure standing 52 feet tall, is Utah’s official state symbol.
B is for Bixby Bridge (California)
Big Sur’s Bixby Bridge, one of the most photographed bridges in the United States and a popular road trip stop, is located on California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway.
C is for Crystal Mill (Colorado)
Crystal Mill, constructed in 1893 on a precarious rock outcropping, is one of the most photographed spots in Colorado. In its heyday, the mill (which served more as a compressor station) used a water turbine to power drills for nearby mining operations.
D is for Door County (Wisconsin)
Scenic Door County is one of the best getaway destinations in the Midwest. With its picture-perfect location on a peninsula jutting into Green Bay and Lake Michigan (stunning cliffs and water views!), numerous hiking trails (peaceful forest atmosphere!), quaint accommodations, farmers markets, art galleries, and eateries, it’s a vacation spot worthy of anyone’s attention.
E is for Endicott Arm Fjord & Dawes Glacier (Alaska)
Endicott Arm Fjord stretches 30 miles into the wilderness of southeast Alaska, offering visitors breathtaking views of granite rock formations dotted with waterfalls. At the end of the fjord, the majestic Dawes Glacier awaits. It’s known for its active calving and frequently changing ice formations. Both can be viewed while scenic cruising through the area.
F is for First Congressional Church Views (Nantucket)
Seasonally on Thursdays and Fridays, visitors can pay $5 to climb the 92 steps to the viewing room at the top of Nantucket’s downtown church. On clear days, Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod are visible, but even just the views of Nantucket and its harbor are worth the exercise.
G is for Grand Prismatic Spring (Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming)
The largest hot spring in the United States (and third largest in the world!) is about 200-330 feet in diameter and more than 121 feet deep. Its vivid colors are the result of microorganisms that live in the water.
H is for Hoh Rain Forest (Washington)
Located within Olympic National Park, Hoh Rain Forest is a large temperate rainforest that receives an average of 140 inches of rain annually. The tranquility and beauty of the lush emerald surroundings is best enjoyed via leisurely hike or a guided tour.
I is for Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)
Upgraded to a national park in 2019, this recent addition to the list provides visitors with miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 15,000 inland acres for hiking and recreation.
J is for Joshua Tree National Park (California)
There are so many reasons to spend time exploring Joshua Tree: dark skies that make for incredible stargazing, miles of trails for hiking, 700+ species of plants to look for, 6000+ climbing routes, photography workshops, and of course, seeing the iconic yucca brevifolia (joshua tree.).
K is for Kancamagus Scenic Byway (New Hampshire)
This 34.5 stretch of highway in northern New Hampshire, also affectionately referred to as “The Kanc,” is touted as one of the country’s best destinations for autumn leaf peeping. The scenic drive weaves through White Mountain National Forest and allows for views of the Swift River, Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, and Rocky Gorge.
L is for Leavenworth (Washington) – during Festive Season!
Stepping into the Bavarian town of Leavenworth feels almost magical because of its location nestled into the Cascade Mountains, charming architecture, and fun festivals throughout the year. The village really shines during Festive Season, however, with lights and decorations galore and a jam-packed calendar of holiday fun.
M is for Mono Lake (California)
This ancient lake (over one million years old!) is a nature reserve that protects the tufa towers (limestone formations created by calcium-filled spring water combined with carbonate lake water) that jut from the water’s surface.
N is for Niagara Falls State Park (New York)
The power and beauty of Niagara Falls can be witnessed close-up at the designated viewing areas, by donning a poncho and navigating the decks of Cave of the Winds, or embarking on a fun (wet!) cruise with the Maid of the Mist.
O is for Outer Banks (North Carolina)
A popular tourist destination and home to some of North Carolina’s best beaches, the Outer Banks is beloved for its coastal charm.
P is for Point Reyes National Seashore – Cypress Tree Tunnel (California)
The Monterey Cypress trees were planted in 1930, growing into an incredible “tree tunnel” worthy of a visit and photo. Sunset is the prime time to check out the canopy, but avoiding other photographers will also be part of the experience.
Q is for the Queen Mary (California)
The ship that once defined luxurious Atlantic Ocean crossings now resides in Long Beach. Open for guided tours and functioning as a unique option for your southern California accommodations, visiting this fully restored, beautiful 1930s ocean liner is worth looking into.
R is for Road to Hana (Hawaii)
Renting a car in Maui and driving the road to Hana is a true Hawaii experience, and more than just a checklist of photographs to snap for social media. Taking time to savor a hot cup of coffee, watch the surfers, swim at a waterfall, munch on banana bread, and hike a trail are memorable experiences you’ll remember forever.
S is for Shoshone Falls (Idaho)
One of the largest waterfalls in the United States (it’s even taller than Niagara Falls!) is worth visiting, especially when the snow begins to melt in the spring and creates a spectacular viewing experience.
T is for Trunk Bay (St John, USVI)
One of the most photographed beaches in the Virgin Islands is also home to a self-guided underwater snorkeling trail, a unique feature that makes the turquoise water even more fun to splash around in.
U is for Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument (Montana)
This remote and scenic part of the Montana badlands spans over 375,000 acres and features rolling plains, sharp cliffs, and the Missouri River landscape. The region has barely changed since Lewis and Clark made their famous expedition.
V is for Vail (Colorado)
Like the previously mentioned Leavenworth, the city of Vail also exudes a European feel, and its beauty is further enhanced by its location in the Colorado Rockies. The area is certainly known for skiing, but some might argue it’s even more desirable to visit during the summer months.
W is for Weverton Cliffs (Maryland)
The cliffs are a significant landmark on the Appalachian Trail, but it’s also a good hike for day trippers who love a great view. The Potomac River flows 500 feet below and Buzzard Rock and Short Hill Mountain are also visible from the ledges.
Y is for Yosemite National Park (California)
Yosemite National Park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1984 and is known for its dramatic cliffs and tumbling waterfalls. Other notable sights include El Capitan and the giant sequoias.
Z is for Zion National Park (Utah)
The first of Utah’s five National Parks welcomes millions of visitors each year who come to ride the shuttle to the park’s most popular attractions, hike the trails that lead to incredible vistas, and cool off in the Virgin River Swimming Hole.
There is so much beauty in our backyard! Which destinations are on your United States travel bucket list?
