21 All-American Landmarks You Must See Before You Die
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Sophia
Author
“America the Beautiful” is definitely an appropriate nickname. This country is filled with landmarks and monuments that do more than just add beauty to the landscape – they define our nation. These are the places that you really need to see in person during your lifetime. Check out some of the most iconic and all-American sites in the United States, and start planning your trip today. Here are the most iconic US landmarks you have to see for yourself.
Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA, USA
Spanning two miles of water and capable of withstanding winds of more than 100 mph, this bridge is a testament to American engineering and determination. It is an indelible part of this nation’s iconography.
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Lincoln Memorial, 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Sculpted in 1920 by Daniel Chester French, the colossal seated likeness of President Abraham Lincoln is located on the historic Nation Mall. The sculpture’s imposing presence is truly moving to experience. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in the US. While visiting D.C., be sure to check out Lincoln's Cottage, an overlooked attraction in the city.
Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, CA 90068, USA
This iconic sign once read "Hollywoodland," and was actually created in 1923 to advertise a local real estate development. Today, the sign is a symbol of American film and glamor and one of the most remarkable must-see landmarks in the US.
Statue of Liberty, New York, NY 10004, USA
This lovely lady was given as a gift from the nation of France in 1886. She cuts a striking figure at 152 feet tall and rests on a pedestal that adds another 89 feet to her height. This landmark symbolized a new life for many immigrants approaching New York City via ferry. It's one of the most iconic places in the US.
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA, USA
This military cemetery in Arlington County is one of the most recognizable burial grounds in the world. Its uniform, marble headstones extend over the rolling hills of the cemetery. The Arlington Memorial Amphitheater is also quite beautiful.
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Mount Rushmore, Mt Rushmore, Mount Rushmore UT, SD 57751, USA
What could be more American than the looming faces of four white men carved into the living granite of a mountainside? Mount Rushmore is a beautiful monument to the legacies of presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. The Lakota Sioux knew the mountainside as "The Six Grandfathers" before it was renamed in 1885 after Charles Rushmore, a New York lawyer. It attracts more than two million visitors annually.
Take a look at this drone footage by @Polychronisdrone:
Take a look at this drone footage by @Polychronisdrone:
Grand Canyon, Arizona 86052, USA
Carved by the powerful Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in America. Its overwhelming immensity and beauty must be experienced to be understood. Not only is this one of the most iconic places in the US but in the world.
Take a look at this drone footage by @DroneSnap:
Take a look at this drone footage by @DroneSnap:
Trail of Tears State Forest, Alto Pass Precinct, IL 62905, USA
Removal Act of 1830 caused the death of over 10,000 Native American people over the course of a grueling relocation program. The landmarks along the path that they followed from the Southeastern United States to land west of the Mississippi are a stark reminder of this national horror.
Space Needle, 400 Broad St, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
Rising 605 feet into the air above Seattle, the Space Needle is an icon of the Pacific Northwest. America certainly has a penchant for reaching sky-high, and this building is a symbol of our architectural ambition and great spirit.
The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA
In 1836, Texan volunteers defended this former Franciscan mission against assault by Mexican forces. The 189 volunteers lost their lives, but their legacy of freedom and valiance lives on. As one of the most historic and iconic US landmarks, The Alamo in Texas is worth visiting.
The building’s simple moniker belies its pivotal place in American history. Some of the most important decisions in modern times were made from this building. It's absolutely one of the most iconic places in the US.
This self-guided trail is set into the streets of Boston. Following the red brick line through the city will bring you to some of the most historically important sites in the city, including Faneuil Hall (where the Declaration of Independence was first read) to the site of the Boston Massacre.
Formerly called the "Custer Battlefield National Monument," this was the site of the 1876 Battle of Little Big Horn. During the battle, Lakota, Dakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors triumphed over General Custer’s forces after the later launched an attack on a nearby Native village. More than 400 people were killed, and the site features memorials to both sides.
Symbolizing Missouri’s place as the "Gateway to the West," this massive structure is just as much art as it is architecture. And it's one of the most iconic places in the US.
Take a look at this drone footage by @LetsGoLims:
Take a look at this drone footage by @LetsGoLims:
Times Square, Manhattan, NY 10036, USA
Located in Midtown Manhattan in New York City, this major commercial intersection is a symbol of the bright and tireless energy of one of the nation’s most famous cities.
National Mall, Washington, DC, USA
This stretch of land is lousy with great American sites, so much so that it definitely qualifies as a landmark itself. Between the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Memorial, it’s hard not to feel the patriotism in the air.
Independence Hall, 520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA
This building has housed more than its fair share of historical moments. The Declaration of Independence was signed here and George Washington assumed his position as commander of the Continental Army within the hall. Not only is it one of the most iconic places in the US but one of the most historic.
Hoover Dam, Nevada 89005, USA
The Hoover Dam is a symbol of America’s engineering prowess. At the time of its construction in 1931, it was the largest concrete structure to have ever been built. The dam creates Lake Mead, another beautiful American landmark.
Washington Monument, 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
Looking more like something out of Egypt than a monument to our nation’s first president, the Washington Monument soars above the National Mall in Washington D.C. It’s the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk at a stunning 554 feet.
Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina 29412, USA
This ancient fort played host to the first battle of the Civil War on April 12, 1861. Spectators actually turned out to watch the battle, and it was one of the most celebrated victories of the Confederate Army. Today, Fort Sumter National Monument is open for public tours.
Manzanar, Manzanar Reward Rd, California, USA
During World War II, over 110,000 Japanese residents of the United States were forcibly held in isolated military "internment" camps. Two-thirds of these prisoners were American citizens who had previously been living ordinary lives. The Manzanar site was one of 10 such camps. It is important to remember the cruelty that can be born from fear, ignorance, and cultural intolerance.
How many of these iconic US landmarks have you visited?
Looking to take a road trip around the country to check out some of these US landmarks? Check out our road trip essentials packing list before you hit the road!
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More to Explore
Must-See Places In The US
What are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the US?
Without a doubt, every US state has an endless number of beautiful places, and that includes both natural and manmade destinations. As most of us seek out picturesque places, here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the US:
- Cumberland Falls is located within Kentucky’s Cumberland Falls State Park where a natural phenomenon called a moonbow occurs. It’s one of the few places on Earth where this happens.
- The Biltmore Estate is a manmade wonder located in Asheville, North Carolina. As the largest home in the US, it’s visited by over a million people each year. It’s easy to see why!
- Mackinac Island in Michigan is as picturesque as can be. Best of all, cars are not allowed on the island. This pedestrian-friendly destination is reachable by ferry or plane and, once you arrive, it’s time to explore the island on foot or by bike.
What is the oldest landmark in the US?
The origin of Taos Pueblo in New Mexico dates back over 1,000 years making it the oldest landmark in the US. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to numerous multi-story pueblo buildings as well as church ruins. It’s still occupied by Native Americans. If interested, you can stop by the Taos Visitor Center, take a tour, and buy art from Taos Pueblo residents. I've been here and it's absolutely fascinating!