The 24 Places You Should Go In The U.S. In 2017

Make 2017 a year of adventure. All across America, there are natural wonders and amazing attractions just waiting for you to explore. These are the spots that readers loved most in 2016, and we're willing to bet that they tickle your wanderlust. Grab your camera, pack up the car and head out to some of these absolutely stunning destinations that will leave you in awe.

1. Havasu Falls, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is one of America's most famous natural attractions, but many people don't know about the turquoise jewel at its heart: Havasu Falls. The bright blue waters stand in stunning contrast to the red rocks of the canyon, giving the entire scene an otherworldly air.

More info and directions here

2. Lincoln Ice Castles, New Hampshire

This place features over an acre of frozen ice walls, tunnels, towers, archways and mesmerizing lighted ice rooms. It's truly like something out of a fairytale. The attraction usually opens in late December and continues through the cold season. More info and directions here

3. Hollywild Animal Park, South Carolina

You don't have to hop continents to go on safari. You can actually drive your own car through this unique animal park in upstate South Carolina and feed exotic animals by hand through your car window. Bus tours are also available if you want to ditch driving and focus on the wild animals. More info and directions

4. Hidden, Low-Tide Bar Island Trail, Maine

The Bar Island Trail in Acadia National Park is only accessible during low tide, and it's one of the best hidden hiking gems in the area. Explore the beautiful and rugged coastline on a path that is normally completely submerged. And don't worry – you'll have plenty of time to scamper back to higher ground before the water rises again. More info and directions here

5. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Washington

Head to western Washington in April for one of the most stunning tulip displays in the world. The fields are open to visitors all month, and attract almost half a million admirers each year. There are also plenty of street fairs, art shows and sporting events to keep you occupied. More info and directions here

6. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

This place is the longest known cave system in the world. Located at Mammoth Cave National Park, visitors can tour these spectacular caverns and soak up the wonder of this glittering subterranean space. More info and directions here

7. Kanarraville Falls, Utah

This secret waterfall can be reached by a quick and easy hike down into a slot canyon. Located near Zion National Park, Kanarraville Falls is the perfect, peaceful desert destination. More info and directions here

8. Bahá’í Temple, Illinois

This beautiful temple in Illinois is the only one of its kind in America. Construction began on the massive structure in the 1920s, and it's the oldest Bahá’í place of worship in the world. Bahá’í celebrates the spiritual unity of all, so you don't have to be a believer to visit this stunning palace of faith.More info and directions here

9. Holden Arboretum Canopy Walk, Ohio

The Judith and Maynard H. Murch Canopy Walk at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio offers a 500-foot-long elevated walkway that is suspended a dizzying 65 feet above the forest floor. There's no better way to take in the beauty of nature than up amongst the treetops, and there's even an observation tower that will take you above the canopy. More info and directions here

10. Red River, New Mexico

Red River is the snowiest place in New Mexico, which makes it the perfect destination for winter sports junkies and lovers of hot cocoa alike. Strap on your skis during the cold months, pack some hiking boots for the summer and be sure to bring your camera no matter what time of year you visit. More info and directions here

11. Grinnell Glacier, Montana

Grinell Glacier is one of the most photographed places in Glacier National Park, and it's easy to see why. Between 1966 and 2005, Grinnell Glacier actually lost almost 40 percent of its acreage due to rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. Scientists predict that all the glaciers in the park will likely disappear due to climate change in the next 15 to 200 years (depending on what is done about tackling climate change), so you better visit this spectacular spot while you can. More info and directions here

12. The Beach at Clayton County International Park, Georgia

This man made beach is located in Jonesboro, and is the perfect place to get away from urban madness for an afternoon. Between the waterslides, sandy shore and refreshing waters, The Beach is the easiest way to fit a killer beach day into your busy summer schedule. More info and directions here

13. Burney Falls, California

Located in McArthur-Burney Falls State Park, this is the waterfall that President Roosevelt once called "the eighth wonder of the world." That's pretty high praise, but you'll think it's selling the waterfall short once you've hiked here yourself. Camping is encouraged, and the trek to the waterfall is short and easy. More info and directions here

14. George Peabody Library, Maryland

Visiting this majestic library should definitely be on every bookworm's to-do list in 2017. Wandering the shelves at this Baltimore landmark feels like strolling the halls of a royal palace, and it's the perfect place to curl up with a good novel. More info and directions here

15. Brenham, Texas

This sleepy hill country town is the perfect place to get away from it all. Featuring rolling pastures, fields of bluebonnets, a gorgeous (and fragrant) lavender farm, plenty of wineries and the famous Blue Bell Factory, Brenham is a place of pure, idyllic country peace.

More info and directions here

16. The Enchanted Woods at Winterthur, Delaware

If you have children, or are simply a kid inside, you need to stop by the Winterhur Musuem in Wilmington. Acres of lush garden have been transformed into an enchanting fairy trail, complete with elves, sprites and even a troll. It's a magical place to stroll for dreamers of all ages.More info and directions here

17. Pine Lake, Indiana

Once the summer heat sets in, all you'll be able to think about is heading to Pine Lake. With a slew of water slides, a fun splash pad, a log walk and tons of activities for kids, this Berne water park is primed to replace your beach days with swinging, sliding and splashing fun. More info and directions here

18. Grotto of the Redemption, Iowa

This incredible man-made grotto in West Bend is completely encrusted with gems and precious stones. It's actually the largest collection of such stones in the world. Built by hand by Father Paul Matthias Dobberstein in the first half of the 1900s, this incredible site truly must be seen to be believed. More info and directions here

19. Blue Lakes, Colorado

The entrancingly vibrant hues of the Blue Lakes seem almost too bright to be real, but these crystal-clear waters are in fact one of Colorado's most spectacular natural wonders. Head to San Juan Mountain in the Mt. Sneffels Wilderness to experience this place for yourself. More info and directions here

20. US-23 Heritage Route

This amazing destination doesn't even require that you leave your vehicle. Driving along the US-23 Heritage Route in Michigan will take you along the coast of Lake Huron, where you'll be greeted by visions of historic lighthouses, beautiful beaches and (if you time it right) one of the most spectacular sunsets in the state. More info and directions here

21. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

This national park features the western hemisphere's largest masonry structure in the form of Fort Jefferson. Visitors can tour the historic fort, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, kayak through the park or just relax on the powdery beaches. More info and directions here

22. Three Georges Candy Shop, Alabama

This quaint shop has been doling out sugary treats since 1917, and is a beloved Mobile institution. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll definitely want to save room for some of their homemade candy, baked goods, gourmet caramel apples and sweet nuts in 2017. More info and directions here

23. Boardman Tree Farm, Oregon

This surreal place looks like something out of a dream, but it's actually a massive poplar tree farm that's open to the public. Be sure to check this spot off your 2017 bucket list early though – the farm was recently sold, the gorgeous poplars are slowly being harvested. More info and directions here

24. New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia

The New River Gorge Bridge is an iconic West Virginia landmark, and it's open to the public for exploration. Stop by the visitors center for one of the best views of the bridge, and then be sure to tackle the Bridge Walk beneath the structure. More info and directions here

What was the most amazing place you explored in 2016? What's on your list for 2017? Let us know!