Biggest US Landmarks and How to Travel to Them

Posted on 24th July 2023

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Whether it be structural icons such as the Statue of Liberty to natural wonders like the Grand Canyon that the land bestows on the world, the US is filled with some of the most awe-inspiring landmarks on the planet. Historical sites with stories that depict the future, engineering marvels, and much much more. The undisturbed wilderness of America’s many National Parks, ranging from the Everglades to Yellowstone, all the way to the caves of Carlsbad. North America is home to some of the most famous landmarks, and here are some of the must-visit destinations that should be included in your bucket list.

The Statue of Liberty

A symbol of hope and freedom for all of the people of America, especially New York City, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most prolific monuments in the country (and, perhaps, the world). Gifted to the US by the French in 1886, the statue was quickly known as a national treasure. Fast-forward to the modern day, and over 3 million people make the journey to New York via commercial travel or private jet charter and board the ferry for a glimpse of this landmark up close. If you are visiting during the weekend, there are a variety of offerings for every age.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is the most famous waterfall in the world, straddling the line between American and Canadian soil. It is the largest waterfall in Northern America and one of the most well-visited destinations across the country. The famous Maid of the Mist boat ride gives passengers an up-close experience. It allows travellers to hear the crashing thunder and the cascading water and to feel its mist up and close. Niagara Falls is host to over 8 million visitors each year.

The Golden Gate Bridge

There are no engineering feet that are more synonymous with a city than the Golden Gate Bridge. This San Francisco landmark is 746 feet tall, coloured with an orange hue making a striking image against the deep blue of the water surrounding it. Spanning 1.7 miles, the Golden Gate Bridge connects San Francisco with Marin Country. An impressive modern example of contemporary engineering is the most famous suspension bridge in the US.

The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a geological wonder formed millions of years ago by the might of the Colorado River. This canyon stretches 278 miles long and, at its largest, 18 miles wide and over a mile deep. The Grand Canyon is given its namesake due to it being the largest canyon in the United States. There are many Native American Reservations that surround the Grand Canyon along with Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the US, with over 5 million visitors each year.

The Empire State Building

A visit to New York City isn’t complete without a trip to the Empire State Building, towering over the skyline of Manhattan sitting at 1450 feet. The building was constructed in 1930 to world-famous proportions being the first building to feature over 100 floors. The Empire State Building is now known as a national landmark, ever-growing in popularity, with around 4 million people making their way to the top annually, looking to take a view at the iconic skyline from the observatory. Trip Advisor has ranked the Empire State Building as its #1 attraction in the US.

The World Trade Centre Complex

A memorial to the fallen World Trade Centre twin buildings, and a rebirth of the city from the most tragic attack the US has seen in modern times, the World Trade Centre Complex is a sight to behold. Uniquely designed in its ability to honour the past and look towards the future. Two pools of reflection with the names of those who were lost to the 9/11 attacks now reside where the towers originally stood. The memorial and museum of 9/11 are featured within the complex, offering a sobering encounter of the events that occurred that fateful day. The complex is surrounded by gardens and the One World Trade Centre Tower (newly erected in 2011), which functions as an entirely fresh business and residential hub of NYC.

The Hoover Dam

With construction finishing in the 1930s, the Hoover Dam was built to supply water and hydroelectric power to the regions of the neighbouring desert. The dam was a massive undertaking to construct, towering 726 feet high, and still continues to be the highest concrete arch dam in the US. With an estimated 7 million visitors each year, the Hoover Dam is one of the most popular landmarks in the US.

The Lincoln Memorial

Built as a memorial to the 16th American president, the Lincoln Memorial resides in the National Mall of Washington DC. Seen as one of the greatest landmarks in Washington DC, this 19-foot marble statue sees President Abraham Lincoln sitting in an open-air neoclassical-style temple. The famous words of Lincoln are inscribed on the memorial, his second inaugural address and Gettysburg Address.

Conclusion

Northern America is home to some of the greatest landmarks in the entire world, making it one of the most wonderful places to visit. Home to some of the biggest landmarks, each trip can be filled with once-in-a-lifetime moments. From human-made to natural creations, the US has it all.