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The Best Tourist Attraction in Every State

Alaska–Glacier Bay National Park

Alaska–Glacier Bay National Park

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve is the perfect way to experience the wild outdoors the authentic Alaskan way. Visitors have been flocking to the park since it initially opened in 1925, and tens of thousands of people still visit it every year thanks to the beautiful landscape and wildlife you experience while there. 

If you’re worried that this national park might be a little too outdoorsy and rough for you, fear not! In reality, most of the visitors to Glacier Bay National Park visit as part of an Alaskan cruise tour. So, you can see all that nature has to offer without giving up your creature comforts of modern living! 

Alabama–Cathedral Caverns State Park

Alabama–Cathedral Caverns State Park

Northern Alabama's Cathedral Caverns State Park is notable for many reasons, but in particular, its world-record entrance opening at the mouth of the cave system is a sight you need to see for yourself. Besides tours, visitors can hike and backpack throughout the area, mine for gemstones, or camp overnight at one of the many campsites. 

You could also channel your inner Jonathan Taylor Thomas, as the cave was a filming location for Disney's Tom and Huck. Plus, if you’re visiting with someone who isn’t thrilled at going underground, there are plenty of more traditional outdoor activities to enjoy here as well. 
 

Arkansas–Crater of Diamonds

Arkansas–Crater of Diamonds

This state park in Arkansas has a unique draw—yes, you really can find diamonds here. Somebody finds one just often enough to remind people that the park is here, and that the diamonds aren't all gone. Located near Murfreesboro, Arkansas, the park also holds lesser pieces of geological curiosity, as well.

Now, you’re going to have to put in some hard work if you want to strike it rich here—those diamonds aren’t going to dig up themselves, after all! However, a significant diamond has been found in the park almost every year since 2006, so it’s not completely out of the realm of possibility that you find a nice one! 

Doug Wertman from Rogers, AR, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Arizona–Grand Canyon

Arizona–Grand Canyon

Standing on the lip of the Grand Canyon will quickly show why this national park has become one of the most widely recognized sites in the world. It might be so famous that it’s gotten a little cliche, but millions of annual visitors can’t all be wrong! 

While you can explore the Grand Canyon the traditional way—on foot or on horseback—there are other options for seeing the sights that are a bit more comfy. Railway and helicopter tours are also available here, as are plenty of hotels with all the amenities of home! 

California–Griffith Observatory

California–Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is an awesome museum and exhibition space that is extremely popular for its live shows that offer in-depth views into outer space, an outer space-themed laser light show set to music, and inspiring and continually evolving permanent displays and exhibitions. Observation telescopes surround the exterior of the building that are available for free use anytime that the observatory is open. 

While it might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory will definitely be better than most of the corny Hollywood tourist traps in the area. It’s the perfect pick for someone who wants a unique look at southern California. 

Colorado–Aspen

Colorado–Aspen

Arguably the most famous skiing region in Colorado, Aspen and its sister town, Snowmass Village, are home to four different mountains. While Aspen is usually associated with the rich and famous, the town offers shopping and dining opportunities for travelers of every budget. It has a lot more to offer than you might realize!

That being said, the luxury hotels are still impressive, and they might be worth staying at if you can afford the outrageous prices. The Little Nell is popular with celebrities, and the hotel runs a pop-up champagne bar on the slopes. Hotel Jerome is another famous destination that dates back to 1889.

Connecticut–Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum

Connecticut–Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum

One of the most interactive amusement parks in the country, Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum is a great way to bring out your adventurous side. With ropes courses and zip-lines, it is hard to be bored in this outdoor wonderland. If you’re in the Bridgeport area, it’s definitely worth a visit. 

While you’re there, it might actually be worth checking out what else the Discovery Museum and Planetarium has to offer. It’s especially great if you’re bringing the kids along, as they offer a lot of educational activities. But don’t worry—the kids will be having too much fun to realize they’re learning! 

(Image via Facebook)

Delaware–Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Delaware–Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Spanning one mile of Delaware coast, the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk follows what is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Enjoy an evening stroll along the beach, or stop in one of the quaint shops on the shore. Be sure to go in time to watch the sunset!

If shopping is more your style, don’t worry because Rehoboth Beach has you covered in that department too! The boardwalk is home to many specialty stores and boutiques, but that’s not even the best part. What makes shopping here really special is that everything is sold tax free! 

Dough4872, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Florida–Kennedy Space Center

Florida–Kennedy Space Center

Florida is such a tourist magnet with so many things to do, that it’s almost like the entire state is just one big destination! From Disney World to the hottest Miami nightclubs, you won’t be bored in The Sunshine State! However, our vote for the coolest Florida attraction is the Kennedy Space Center. 

If you time your vacation right, you might actually get to see a shuttle launch, but even if that’s not the case, the Kennedy Center has plenty of interesting history and attractions to explore. In addition to daily talks from real astronauts, the center has everything from simulated rocket launches to space-themed playgrounds for the kiddos. 

Georgia–Georgia Aquarium

Georgia–Georgia Aquarium

First opened in 2005, the Georgia Aquarium has earned the title of hosting the highest number of marine creatures of any aquarium in the U.S. It’s an amazing place to visit with the family when you’re looking for a stop that pairs education and fun. There are six different galleries within the aquarium, which house everything from dolphins and whale sharks to sea lions and otters.

Plus, the location of the aquarium is the perfect spot for even more sightseeing on your Georgia vacation. Located in the heart of Atlanta, there are lots of other nearby must-sees in the city, like Centennial Olympic Park, the College Football Hall of Fame, and the Coca-Cola museum.

Hawaii–USS Arizona Memorial

Hawaii–USS Arizona Memorial

The USS Arizona was commissioned in 1916 and served faithfully in diplomatic and training missions until its sinking on December 7,  1941, in the attack on Pearl Harbor that pulled the United States into World War II. There are museum exhibits about the war to take in before a boat trip out to the memorial itself, which straddles the sunken remains of the ship.

While this is not necessarily the most fun outing you could have in Hawaii, it does give you the opportunity to explore one of the most important moments in American history. But remember—daily spaces are limited for the memorial, so you may want to make your reservations several weeks in advance. 

Iowa–Villisca Axe Murder House

Iowa–Villisca Axe Murder House

In 1912, the entire Moore family and two houseguests were murdered in this Villisca home. The killings were so brutal that they bumped the sinking of the Titanic from the front page of many newspapers. You can now visit the house, which is considered to be one of the most haunted places in the United States.

This is definitely not a destination for the kiddos, but if you’ve got a major true crime fan in your life, this spooky spot is one you don’t want to miss. Tours of the house run for most the year, but you can also arrange to spend the night in the house…if you’re brave enough! 

The day book, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Idaho–Boise River Park

Idaho–Boise River Park

Boise River Park is a city park in Boise where the river has been fitted with two state-of-the-art waveshapers that make waves between 20 and 25 feet tall, allowing people to surf and kayak, or whatever you want really. Jetties on both sides of the river guide you in, and an expansion is currently underway. There's even a surf company or two in town to help you get started.

White water rafting in the middle of a city might seem like an odd choice, and if you’re an experienced rafter and thrill seeker, this probably will seem a bit tame to you. However, for folks who have never done it before but are ready to take the plunge, the Boise River Park might be the perfect spot to try it for the first time! 

Illinois–Millennium Park

Illinois–Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a masterpiece of renovation for Chicago's Grant Park and surrounding areas. This 24.5-acre park is filled with attractions for public entertainment and has ample space for picnics, al fresco dining, and interactive play areas. It is lauded as an unprecedented center for fine art, music, architecture, and landscape design.

Millennium Park is designed to accommodate the extreme weather conditions of Chicago with features and attractions that shift from one mode of operation to another with the seasons of heat and snow, although most visitors prefer the park's sunny season. Millennium Park is certainly a destination to include in your plans when visiting the city of Chicago.

Indiana–Indianapolis Museum of Art

Indiana–Indianapolis Museum of Art

New York City isn’t the only place to visit with impressive art museums. If you find yourself in Indianapolis, be sure to visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art. See over 54,000 works of art from all over the world that include ceramics, textiles, designs, and stunning masterpieces. It’s a hidden gem in the heartland!

While that’s sure to give you much to see, the Lilly House and Gardens is a part of this museum and a National Historic Landmark. Nestled upon lush, well-manicured lands, this impressive estate still retains its original look from the 1930s. It’s the chance to enjoy Indianapolis in the past while being in the present!

Kansas–Museum of World Treasure

Kansas–Museum of World Treasure

Greece and Egypt are only two of the several civilizations on display at the Museum of World Treasure. The three-story structure housing the museum has a number of military displays in addition to natural history and country histories. The second story is home to military relics and collections, as well as nobility and clothing from many civilizations, while the first floor is filled with numerous dinosaurs of various spices.

Bone fossils and religious artwork are among the several items on display. As you explore the whole facility throughout your visit to this museum, you will leave with a better understanding of world history. You get a look into the past as a result of your encounter with the treasures the world has to offer.

Museumworldtreasures, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Kentucky–Corvette Museum

Kentucky–Corvette Museum

Since its use in professional racing, the Chevrolet Corvette has become one of the most popular sports cars in the world. At the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky visitors can learn about the complex history of the car. The museum is only a quarter of a mile away from the plant where Corvettes are manufactured.

You might also get an unexpected science lesson when you visit! Since 2016, the museum has offered an exhibit looking at a major sinkhole collapse that occurred on the grounds in 2014. Visitors learn a little bit about what caused the sinkhole to form, and they also get a virtual look at the cars that were lost in the damage. 

Jonrev at English Wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Louisiana–New Orleans Streetcar & Garden District

Louisiana–New Orleans Streetcar & Garden District

One of the essential things to do in New Orleans is to ride its historic streetcar, which opened in 1834 and is the oldest in service in the world. It’s a convenient, glamorous, and inexpensive way to get to know the city, as the streetcar passes through the French Quarter and many other parts of New Orleans. 

Pass through St. Charles and Carrollton avenues, which are symbolic of New Orleans’s romance and charm. This particular line is the oldest continuously operating street tram system in the world—opening as steam-powered and horse-drawn in 1835 and converting to electricity in 1893. You can also pass through the Central Business District, City Park, and the New Orleans Museum of Art.

Massachusetts–Plymouth Rock

Massachusetts–Plymouth Rock

Plymouth is the epicenter of United States history. This is where the Mayflower, the ship that carried the Pilgrims to the New World, landed. They left from Plymouth, England, so they must've been homesick or out of ideas for names by the time they landed. And if you find yourself in Massachusetts, you can experience this history for yourself. 

Plymouth holds a full-scale replica of the original Mayflower and seeing the ship's small size gives a tangible sense of the hardship those 102 people faced during the 10-week voyage. However, the park is only open from April to November, so plan accordingly if this is a must-visit for you. 

Maryland–Historic Annapolis

Maryland–Historic Annapolis

At one point, Annapolis was the capital of the United States. The brick sidewalks saw the footsteps of Washington and Jefferson, and four signers of the Declaration of Independence had their homes right here among the rest of the gorgeous 17th- and 18th-century architecture. There's also a gorgeous waterfront, including a dead-end canal called "ego alley" where you can watch boats sail by just to show off.

However, historic Annapolis is much more than just American history. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, especially if you’re in the mood for seafood. Plus, there are a ton of boutiques and other stores along Main Street to find the perfect souvenir for your trip. 

Maine–Commercial Street in Portland

Maine–Commercial Street in Portland

When many people think about Maine, they think about the abundance of seafood around the state. On Commercial Street in Portland, there are many markets that sell the finest catches the sea has to offer. The street is also home to many tourist shops and artisan bakeries. It’s a must-visit for some great food!

However, Commercial Street is more than just its world-famous seafood. There are also plenty of clubs if you’re interested in nightlife as well as walking trails to take in the sights and learn a little bit more about the city. You won’t find a place like this anywhere else in Maine…or the United States!

Michigan–Mackinac Island

Michigan–Mackinac Island

The Upper Peninsula is definitely part of Michigan, but it's got a strong culture all its own. From the prevalent logging industry to a strong Finnish heritage, U.P. has such a strong sense of identity that a statehood initiative floats around every couple of decades or so. 

There's plenty to do here, from skiing to hiking to Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel, and the peninsula was named as one of ShermanTravel's top 10 destinations in the world. Mackinac Island may be a small community, but you’ll be surprised at just how much this tiny island has to offer. 

Minnesota–Mall of America

Minnesota–Mall of America

There’s nothing more American than a shopping mall, and there’s not a better one in the country than the Mall of America. It may sound a little corny and cliche, but if you find yourself in Bloomington, this is one stop you don’t want to miss! There’s a lot more to do there than you might expect. 

Almost a city unto itself, the Mall employs over 11,000 people, hosts 40 million visitors every year, and boasts 8 acres of skylights. The gigantic monument to commerce also boasts a 1.2 million-gallon aquarium and its own theme park. You could lay 258 Statues of Liberty inside the mall—though it would make it a little harder to get from Macy's to Sears.

Farragutful, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Missouri–Branson

Missouri–Branson

If you’re looking for an old-fashioned fun time, you’re definitely going to want to make a stop in Branson, Missouri. Located near the Arkansas-Missouri border, Branson may be home to only 12,000 people, but it absolutely packed with theaters, shopping, and so much more that makes it a tourist paradise. 

You’ll definitely want to catch a show while you’re there, but let’s just hope you like country music and oldies because that’s mainly what’s on offer. It’s also worth taking a small trip out of the city limits to explore Silver Dollar City, a pioneer-themed amusement park that brings in thousands of visitors a year. 

Momwriter, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mississippi–Mississippi Museum Of Natural Science

Mississippi–Mississippi Museum Of Natural Science

The Mississippi Museum of Natural Sciences is located within LeFleur’s Bluff State Park and aims to teach visitors about the area’s natural history. Featuring educational exhibits, interactive habitats, and specimen collections, the museum also has a 100,000-gallon aquarium that is home to over 200 native species of aquatic life.

In addition, the museum holds a beautiful greenhouse. It is home to wetland fauna and flora. There is even a fossil collection and a discovery room. There are giant tree houses throughout the museum grounds, which are also a big hit with kids. You don’t want to miss this if you’re in Jackson! 

(Image via Facebook)

Montana–Lewis and Clark Caverns

Montana–Lewis and Clark Caverns

Although they were unaware of it, Lewis and Clark camped near these caverns on their expedition across the United States. Ranchers discovered the caves near the end of the 19th century and began giving public tours shortly thereafter. Today, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is a great site for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Despite all the visitors, the caverns are still home to hundreds of western big-eared bats that use the caves to birth and raise their young. If you happen to be a little batty yourself, you’ll definitely want to come during August when the caves annually celebrate Bat Week. 

North Carolina–NASCAR Hall of Fame

North Carolina–NASCAR Hall of Fame

The NASCAR Hall of Fame has interesting exhibits that will educate and delight both stock car racing enthusiasts and visitors. Within the facility, you will find participatory exhibitions such as a race simulation where you can sit in a car and race other drivers. From all-time top drivers to broadcasters, the museum is dedicated to honoring the major contributors to the NASCAR racing competition.

So far, 58 people have been recognized in the NASCAR Hall of Fame, including Joe Gibbs, Buddy Baker, and Leonard Wood. Admission is $25 for adults, $18 for children ages 4 to 12, $8 for military personnel, and $2 for seniors.

Groupuscule, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

North Dakota–International Peace Garden

North Dakota–International Peace Garden

Found on the border of the United States and Canada, the International Peace Garden is meant to symbolize goodwill between the two nations. Every year, more than 150,000 flowers are planted within the park, including in the shape of American and Canadian flags. Many notable monuments stand in the garden, including the Peace Towers, one on U.S. soil and the other on Canadian.

While on the grounds of the garden, visitors can do something most other Americans and Canadians can’t—move freely between the border of the United States and Canada. However, all visitors do have to go through customs after leaving the garden, no matter which country they are returning to. 

Dig deeper, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nebraska–Carhenge

Nebraska–Carhenge

You have to see this place to truly believe it. In the 1980s, Jim Reinders built a replica of the famed Stonehenge, but instead of stone he used spray-painted classic automobiles. As a symbol of national pride, all of the cars included in the Carhenge exhibit were manufactured by American companies.

As cool as Carhenge itself may be, you should be warned that it’s basically the only tourist attraction in the area. While you should be able to find housing accommodations in the nearby town of Alliance, NE, don’t expect much in terms of other entertainment. 

Brian W. Schaller, FAL, via Wikimedia Commons

New Hampshire–Mt. Washington Auto Road

New Hampshire–Mt. Washington Auto Road

When you get passed by a car with a bumper sticker that reads “This car climbed Mt. Washington,” it's referring to this road. The Mount Washington Auto Road stretches to a height of 6,145 feet, making the ascent difficult for many vehicles to accomplish. For cars that do finish the journey, breathtakingly expansive views await as a reward.

If you’re not confident enough in your driving skills to brave the drive yourself—don’t worry, you’re still in luck! There are guided van tours available to be scheduled. However, bike enthusiasts are out of luck, as they aren’t allowed on the road except during certain special events, like the Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb. 

New Jersey–Atlantic City Boardwalk

New Jersey–Atlantic City Boardwalk

Opened in 1870, Atlantic City had the first boardwalk in the United States. Over the years, it has been home to several famous piers. Visitors can enjoy the hustle of the crowd and the many vendors. Though part of the boardwalk was damaged during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, it is still overflowing with vibrant culture.

Whether you want to hit the beach to catch some rays, grab a bite to eat, or do a little shopping, you can find it all (and more) down at the Boardwalk. And, while you’re in Atlantic City, you might want to pop into one of the local casinos to test your luck at the tables! 

New Mexico–Santa Fe Plaza

New Mexico–Santa Fe Plaza

The Santa Fe Plaza is the true heart of Santa Fe. Popular with tourists and locals alike, the area is a National Historic Landmark in downtown Santa Fe, where one can find an abundance of locally-owned shops and small outdoor markets, the Palace of the Governor’s Native American vendor market, the striking Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (open for viewing regularly), and even the New Mexico State Capitol building just a few blocks away. 

Don’t miss out on grabbing a margarita at The Shed or Coyote Cantina, a spirit animal at Keshi the Zuni Connection, a unique fair-trade outfit at Poetic Threads, and an abundance of other gorgeous garments and stunning souvenirs throughout the many blocks of walkable, beautiful, and iconic Santa Fe streets.

blmurch, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nevada–Las Vegas

Nevada–Las Vegas

Is anyone really surprised that Las Vegas is the place to be in Nevada? While Las Vegas may be the butt of many people’s jokes, visitors keep flocking to the bright lights of Sin City because the temptation of winning big at the tables is just too powerful to resist! 

However, there’s much more to do in Las Vegas than just lose your shirt gambling the night away. You could also take in a show or two (or three) because Vegas is home to some of the highest-class entertainment in the world. And, if you get sick of all the hustle and bustle, you can be surrounded by gorgeous desert views with just one short road trip outside the city limits. 

New York–Empire State Building

New York–Empire State Building

The Empire State building is a New York City icon. From the times of its construction during the Great Depression, it has been a symbol of the greatest of American engineering and ingenuity. Located on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets, the building rises approximately one-quarter mile above fashionable Fifth Avenue and the business district on 6th Avenue. 

The best times to visit run from spring to early winter, avoiding the heat and cold as the observation deck is open-air. During the day, it is probably best to arrive early, pick up tickets, and take a late morning tour. The afternoons are the heavier times for long tour waits, ticket queues, and crowds.

Ohio–Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Ohio–Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

America’s second-oldest zoo boasts over 500 animals and 3,000 plant varieties. Samantha, the world’s oldest gorilla in captivity, was born in 1970 and is housed in the Gorilla World’s naturalized rainforest habitat. Who knew you could experience something so wild in the middle of Ohio? 

When touring the Red Panda Habitat, you’ll find various Chinese plant types that support the red panda’s native forest habitat. Swan Lake, African Penguin Point, Jungle Trails, Wings of the World, and many other exhibits can be visited in the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. You may think if you’ve seen one zoo you’ve seen them all, but that’s not the case in Cincinnati! 

Mind meal at en.wikipedia, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Oklahoma–Lake Hefner

Oklahoma–Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner’s gentle waters make it ideal for kayaking and paddle boarding. Although you cannot swim in the lake because it is a local water source, you are able to fish. The entire surrounding area, which has about 10 miles of paved trails, is a popular running, walking, and cycling area. 

You can also dine in style at Red Rock Canyon Grill, which is located in East Wharf, off Lake Hefner Parkway, with a view of the sunset from the city’s only lighthouse. The picnic spots and playgrounds are free, however fishing from the shore requires a city fishing permit.

Oregon–Crater Lake National Park

Oregon–Crater Lake National Park

As an anonymous traveler once said, “When they were choosing the Seven Wonders of the World, they must not have made it to Oregon.” Caused by an ancient glacier, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the Western hemisphere. Seen by many as a sacred place, the crystalline waters and surrounding forest make for gorgeous views.

This is definitely one spot in the United States that you don’t want to miss if you’re big into fishing. The lake was first stocked with non-native fish in 1888, which continued for decades. That means, these days, you can fish here without a license or limit on the number of fish you can catch. 

Pennsylvania–Gettysburg Battlefield

Pennsylvania–Gettysburg Battlefield

From July 1-3, 1863, Gettysburg would see the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. In fact, many people consider it a turning point for the Union forces. Following the battle, Abraham Lincoln famously made an address about the severity of the conflict. Today, you can visit the historic battlefield and learn about the brave men who died there.

In addition to guided tours of the battlefield, the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center also host several annual special events in the park. In addition to Civil War history, you can also learn about President Dwight Eisenhower, as his ancestral home and farm are also on the grounds. 

Rhode Island–Pippin Orchard

Rhode Island–Pippin Orchard

Apple picking is a popular Rhode Island pastime every autumn, and everyone knows Pippin Orchard is the prime place to be for the best apples. The orchard contains sixteen varieties of apples, including Macoun, Honeycrisp, and Rhode Island Greening. Also, Pippin Orchard has a massive celebration for Columbus Day every October.

There’s not a more beautiful place to be in the fall than New England, so you might want to expand your trip to the orchard into a tour of Rhode Island itself. Considering you can drive across this tiny state in less than an hour, it’s worth exploring it all! 

(Image via Facebook)

South Carolina–Myrtle Beach

South Carolina–Myrtle Beach

Each year, millions of visitors flock to the gorgeous coastal city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Its fantastic climate, large variety of activities, and wonderful extensive beaches call out to those who are looking for an awesome weekend or vacation getaway. Those looking to be pampered will also enjoy staying in one of the many luxury hotels and spas available in the city.

Myrtle Beach is also the place to be if you love golf. The area has some of the largest concentrations of golf courses in the nation. Courses range from family affairs to exclusive private clubs. Some of the top golf courses include MB National King's North, TPC of Myrtle Beach, Caledonia, Dunes Golf and Beach Club, and Blackmoor.

South Dakota–Badlands National Park

South Dakota–Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park inarguably has one of the best and toughest-sounding names of all time. The rugged mountains of this national park will leave you speechless—you won’t find views like this anywhere else in the country. However, it has more than beauty—it’s also one of the largest fossil deposits in the world. 

Ancient horses, rhinos, and saber-toothed cats once roamed the park, but today you can find big-horned sheep, bison, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets scampering around instead—although a few of the ancient animals have stuck around as fossils in the park’s museum! Enjoy hiking, educational shows, and so much more at Badlands National Park. 

Tennessee–Graceland

Tennessee–Graceland

Despite the fact that Elvis Presley has been dead for decades, he's still one of the most recognizable and beloved rock 'n roll superstars of all time. And even though the King may no longer be with us, it's still possible to get an authentic glimpse into the life of Elvis to this day. And that's all thanks to Graceland. 

Since its opening to the public in 1982, Graceland has served as a museum dedicated to the life of Elvis where fans can see firsthand how the King of Rock 'n Roll lived. During that time, literal millions of visitors have filed through the halls of the mansion and taken in all of its history. 

Joseph Novak, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Texas–Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Texas–Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

The Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show runs from late February to mid-May, and there's a lot more to it than mere steer ropin'. From the World's Champion Bar-B-Que Contest to the parade to nightly concerts that have drawn everyone from Selena to Selena Gomez, the Rodeo draws millions of people to Houston each year and raises millions of dollars for the children of Texas. 

The Rodeo does occasionally host other events throughout the year, like November's wine competition, so they really offer a little something for everyone. It's worth checking before you come to town to see whether the Houston Rodeo has anything happening. This is one rootin’ tootin’ time you don’t want to miss out on! 

W0lfieCC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

Utah–Park City

Utah–Park City

Park City Mountain is a resort in Utah where singles, couples, and families can escape the mundane to enjoy an outdoor adventure. Utah might not be the first place you think of when you think about skiing, but at the resort, you can have as much fun in the winter as you could in the summer! 

For nearly 50 years, Park City Mountain Resort has been renowned for its excellent wintry conditions that makes it ideal for snowboarding and skiing. However, there’s more than one way to get moving in Park City. For the real thrill-seekers in your party, you might want to give the resort’s alpine roller coaster a try! 

Virginia–Colonial Williamsburg

Virginia–Colonial Williamsburg

The United States’ colonial period may have ended centuries ago, but this part of history is still alive and well in Virginia’s Colonial Williamsburg. This historic district in the city is considered a “living-history museum” where everything you see and everyone you meet are helping bring the exhibit to life. 

Colonial Willamsburg has a ton to offer visitors, but you know what the best part of this tourist destination is? It’s totally free! Sure, you can stock up on plenty of historical-themed souvenirs while you’re there, but walking down the street and taking in the sights won’t cost you a single penny. 

Larry Pieniazek, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Vermont–Ben and Jerry's Factory

Vermont–Ben and Jerry's Factory

Ben and Jerry's is almost as well-known for its activism as for its unique flavors. Ben came up with chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream because he can't actually taste, so he values texture in his ice cream. And you can see all the behind-the-scenes ice cream secrets for yourself with a factory tour! 

The factory tour includes a guided walk-through with a little bit of free sampling at the end, a history of the company's almost comically tragic early years, and a view of the flavor graveyard where the retired flavors of the past are laid to rest. It’s the sweetest tourist destination in the USA! 

(Image via Facebook)

Washington–The Fremont Troll

Washington–The Fremont Troll

Inspired by the Norwegian folk tale Three Billy Goats Gruff, the Fremont Troll is a beloved sculpture under the George Washington Memorial Bridge in Seattle. Artists Steve Badanes, Will Martin, Donna Walter, and Ross Whitehead built the Fremont Troll in the hopes that visitors and locals would interact with the sculpture, as well as add interest to an otherwise lackluster and often unused space.

Citizens of Fremont have come to love the bizarre sculpture over the years—so much so that they even named a nearby street “Troll Avenue.” This may be one of the weirdest tourist destinations in the United States, but it’s one you’re going to want to see with your own eyes!

"Freemont Troll"/Richie Diesterheft/CC By-SA 2.0/Flickr

Wisconsin–Lambeau Field

Wisconsin–Lambeau Field

Sports fans all over the world are intense, but you would have a hard time finding people who are more serious about a team than Green Bay Packers fans. No matter when the game starts, tailgaters will have booths set up starting early in the morning. If you really want to see people go crazy, head to Lambeau when the Chicago Bears are in town.

Aside from football, the stadium has been used for everything from musical concerts to snowmobile racing! Even if you’re not a Packers fan yourself, this is definitely a must-visit site for any and all football fans. Just don’t let anyone know you’re not rooting for the home team! 

Royalbroil, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

West Virginia–Mothman Museum

West Virginia–Mothman Museum

Point Pleasant saw its share of strange phenomena in the 1960s, as was chronicled in the 2002 thriller The Mothman Prophecies. The Mothman Museum was established to document these occurrences and serve as a monument to the movie, including many props and souvenirs from the film. Just be careful you don’t run into the Mothman himself! 

If you’re a really big fan of cryptids, you’re definitely going to want to plan your trip to coincide with the annual Mothman Festival the museum holds in the fall. From live music to hayride tours, the festival has everything you need to have a little spooky fun in West Virginia!

(Image via Twitter)

Wyoming–Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Wyoming–Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Wyoming might seem like a no-frills kind of state, but that couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Despite its out-of-the-way location, it’s one of the most popular, and, more importantly, most expensive ski resorts in the country. 

There’s obviously plenty of winter fun to be had in Jackson Hole, but it can also be a great summer destination, as long as you don’t have your heart on skiing. These warm-weather activities include gondola tours of the area and summertime classics like mini-golf and rock climbing. 

Enricokamasa, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons