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10. Honolulu, Hawaii

Image: Angela Bailey

Entering the heart of the Pacific can transport you to a world unlike any other, and Honolulu certainly lives up to its reputation as a destination for 2.7 million international travelers . With its backdrop of crystal-clear waters and the imposing presence of Diamond Head, nature's wonder is on full display. But Honolulu offers more than just beach vibes ; it's a journey through the rich history of the island chain.

Waikiki Beach draws crowds in droves, its allure immortalized in countless social media posts. And for those seeking a deeper dive into Hawaiian culture, the Bishop Museum stands as a treasure trove of artifacts and stories. Yet, to truly grasp the essence of Hawaii, one must experience the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival.

This place is in eternal improvement, always striving for better experiences for both locals and visitors.

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9. Boston, Massachusetts

Image: Kareya Saleh

Boston is one of the most visited cities in the country because it combines the best in history, culture, and innovation. It has a rich past and a bustling present and even if there’s another city that never sleeps, Boston doesn’t stay quiet either.

On the one hand, there are several trails that invite visitors to learn not only about America’s history but also about the diverse communities living within the city and the innovations that society experienced over 400 years. These trails are the Freedom Trail, the Innovation Trail, and the Walking City Trail .

But that is not all, Boston also bustles with sport and athleticism and no visit to Boston is complete until tourists have experienced the Boston Marathon , one of the six Abbott World Marathon Majors.

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8. Chicago, Illinois

Image: Sawyer Bengtson

Every year, over a million travelers from overseas flock to Chicago and it’s no surprise why since Chicago has it all.

First let’s talk architecture, just a river cruise tour is enough to drop any visitor’s jaw with the stunning skyline that blends history with modernity in the most picturesque way.

Then there are also museums. The Field Museum, for example, houses a mind-boggling collection of over 40 million artifacts and specimens. Visitors could spend days there and still not see it all! And of course, Millennium Park is a must-visit to look at its iconic Cloud Gate structure, better known as The Bean.

However, no visit to Chicago is complete until one has a slice of pizza or a Chicago-style hot dog! Who doesn’t need one of those to charge up and continue their visit?

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7. Washington, D.C.

Image: Maria Oswalt

When travelers decide to include Washington D.C. in their itineraries, there’s not much planning to do, the city itself takes them along the most important spots around.

One can start at the iconic Washington Monument, smack dab in the heart of The Mall. From there, visitors find themselves surrounded by history and landmarks galore. The Lincoln Memorial, the White House, the Jefferson Memorial, and Tidal Basin. If that’s not enough, the Capitol is also there for tourists to see, and of course, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is a must.

Now, beyond the classics, there are also hidden gems to discover. For example, Planet Word, a funky museum that delves into the origins of language, has been housed in a historic schoolhouse since 2020. And for art lovers, the renovated National Museum of Women in the Arts is back in action.

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6. Las Vegas, Nevada

Image: Grant Cai

Las Vegas is a top contender in this ranking because of the different events you can witness there.

For example, the music scene is flourishing with epic concerts that take the stage of The Sphere. But beyond this, Vegas recently made waves with its inaugural Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix and hosting the Super Bowl LVII.

For an unforgettable experience, no visitor can miss the Bellagio Fountains, depicted in many movies and TV shows throughout the years. These stunning water displays, set to music and lights, create a wonderful show right in the heart of Las Vegas.

Another must-see hotspot is the Fremont Street Experience. This vibrant, pedestrian-only street features a massive LED canopy that displays dazzling light shows, live music, and street performers!

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5. San Francisco, California

Image: Braden Collum

One visit to San Francisco is not enough, no matter how tight your itinerary is. Considering this, it’s no surprise it made it to the list of most visited cities in the U.S., it is jam-packed with iconic sights and experiences.

Travelers’ must-do list includes a ride on a cable car, a stroll down the famous Lombard Street, and a good view from the top of Coit Tower. Moreover, the Presidio Tunnel Tops has quickly become a favorite hangout spot, while the Landing at Leidesdorff offers cool pop-up cultural events.

If one is after views and sightseeing, crossing the Golden Gate is a plan you just cannot miss out on, its towering red spires against the backdrop of the bay are simply breathtaking. The Golden Gate Park also offers endless beauty to explore since it represents a sprawling oasis in the heart of the city.

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4. Los Angeles, California

Image: Venti Views

Los Angeles is the ultimate star-studded destination, drawing in millions of visitors each year. One of the city’s biggest draws is the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can stroll along the sidewalk and spot the stars of your favorite celebrities. Nearby, the legendary TCL Chinese Theater stands as a symbol of Hollywood’s golden era.

For thrill-seekers, L.A. houses Universal Studios Hollywood in which you can explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and get an inside look at how movies are made on the studio tour.

Of course, no trip to L.A. would be complete without a visit to its iconic beaches . From the bustling boardwalk of Venice Beach to the scenic shores of Malibu, there’s sun, sand, and surf to enjoy aplenty.

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3. Orlando, Florida

Image: Aditya Vyas

Orlando is a magnet for families seeking endless fun, drawing millions of visitors worldwide every year. The city's iconic attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and Legoland Florida Resort keep the excitement going year-round.

Beyond the theme park thrills, Orlando offers a taste of nature too. Whether it's birding at Gatorland Bird Rookery, kayaking with Epic Paddle Adventures, or zip-lining at Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Garden , there's something for every nature enthusiast.

Plus, for those looking to explore beyond Orlando, the eco-friendly Brightline rail service connects Miami, Boca Raton, and West Palm Beach.

At first sight, Orlando might seem like the perfect place to visit with kids, but it’s actually the perfect scenario for adults and couples on a romantic getaway!

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2. Miami, Florida

Image: aurora.kreativ

Miami is more than just beaches and parties, it is a cultural hotspot with endless things to see and do. Sure, South Beach and Ocean Drive are iconic, but Miami offers much more today.

Wynwood, once a neglected area, has blossomed into an art lover’s paradise. The Wynwood Walls boast 35,000 square feet of vibrant murals, making it the trendiest district in town. Don’t miss the Museum of Graffiti or the Nader Art Museum of Latin America.

Miami’s Magic City nickname is well-deserved with attractions like The Underline, a 10-mile-long urban park , opening in phases.

For a unique experience, check out Circ X, an avant-garde performance troupe that pushes the boundaries of traditional entertainment. Their shows are electrifying and unforgettable! Whether you are into art, nature, or luxury living, Miami is ready to receive every kind of visitor!

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1. New York City, New York

Image: Thomas Habr

New York City, the Big Apple, or the city that never sleeps, whatever you call it, there’s no denying its status as a global icon. From towering skyscrapers to world-famous landmarks, New York offers a dizzying array of attractions that captivate millions of visitors each year.

Times Square is a classic with its dazzling lights and bustling energy, it is definitely a must for first-time visitors. Take a Broadway show, snap a selfie with the iconic billboards, and soak up the electrifying atmosphere.

For a bird's-eye view of the city, head to the top of the Empire State Building or One World Observatory, the panoramic views are simply breathtaking. And if the views are what you are after, you cannot miss the chance to take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The Fifth Avenue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, and so much more to see!

New York is representative of the rest of the country, it is a melting pot of culture, cuisine, creativity, and more. The Big Apple never fails to leave a lasting impression!

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Carhenge – Alliance, Nebraska

Image: John Dame

Imagine driving through the Great Plains and stumbling across Stonehenge—only this version is made entirely of old cars. That’s Carhenge. Built in 1987 by artist Jim Reinders, this auto-art installation mirrors the original monument’s dimensions using vintage American cars, all painted gray. It’s history with a humorous twist, you know!

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Salvation Mountain – Niland, California

Image: Megan Ellis

Located near the edge of the desert, Salvation Mountain is a wonder filled with color and faith. Leonard Knight spent decades slathering adobe and straw with thick coats of paint, spreading a message of love through hand-lettered Bible verses. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the heart behind this monument—it’s pure passion on display.

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The Enchanted Highway – Regent, North Dakota

Image: Carol Highsmith's America

This isn’t your average country drive. The Enchanted Highway is a 32-mile stretch of open road lined with enormous metal sculptures—everything from geese in flight to grasshoppers the size of RVs. Created by Gary Greff, a small-town schoolteacher turned roadside visionary, this whimsical parade of artwork proves that a little welding—and a lot of heart—can turn even the quietest town into a road trip highlight.

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The Paper House – Rockport, Massachusetts

Image: Unlimited Access

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with old newspapers, how about building a house? In the 1920s, engineer Elis Stenman did just that. The walls, furniture—even the curtains—are made from varnished newspapers. It’s cozy, clever, and surprisingly sturdy. Part architecture, part recycling marvel, this little New England oddity is well worth the detour.

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The Museum of Bad Art – Boston, Massachusetts

Image: Marishka Tsiklauri

Some artwork takes your breath away. Other pieces make you laugh out loud—and that’s exactly the goal at the Museum of Bad Art. This small but mighty gallery celebrates delightfully terrible creations. It’s not about mocking; quite the opposite. It’s about finding joy in the offbeat and honoring artists who dared to create something totally different. Trust us—you’ll leave smiling.

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The Unclaimed Baggage Center – Scottsboro, Alabama

Image: Raquel Brepohl

Ever wonder where your missing suitcase ended up? Chances are, it’s here. The Unclaimed Baggage Center is part retail store, part treasure hunt. Spread across 40,000 square feet, it sells items left behind at airports—from clothes and gadgets to the occasional surprise oddity. If you enjoy thrifting, this is a must-stop on your trip.

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The Wigwam Motel – Holbrook, Arizona

Image: Johnathan Ciarrocca

Nothing screams classic Americana like Route 66, and the Wigwam Motel delivers. Here, you’ll sleep in your very own concrete teepee. It’s one of only three surviving "Wigwam Villages" from the 1950s. It’s kitschy, it’s cozy, and it’s a nostalgic nod to the road trips of yesteryear. Want a bonus? Check out the vintage cars parked out front.

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The House on the Rock – Spring Green, Wisconsin

Image: Cristina Glebova

Imagine a mansion crossed with a carnival funhouse—that’s The House on the Rock. Started in the 1940s by Alex Jordan Jr., this labyrinth of rooms features bizarre collections, from a giant carousel to self-playing orchestras and a hall filled with model ships. It’s overwhelming, wonderful, and completely unforgettable—a place where your inner child will be wide-eyed the entire time.

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The Grotto of the Redemption – West Bend, Iowa

Image: Mustafa akın

Part spiritual sanctuary, part geological marvel, the Grotto of the Redemption is made of millions of stones, gems, and fossils. Started by Father Paul Dobberstein in 1912, this labor of love took over 40 years to complete. The result? A jaw-dropping series of religious scenes and structures that glitter in the sunlight. Bring your sunglasses—you’re in for a dazzling experience.

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The UFO Watchtower – Hooper, Colorado

Image: Gabriel Tovar

For those who believe in aliens—or just love a good alien yarn—the UFO Watchtower is a must-see. Located in the San Luis Valley, a hotspot for sightings, this quirky site offers 360-degree views of the sky, a garden filled with visitor trinkets, and plenty of stories. Try it out—what if you spot a flying saucer? Let’s face it, we’re all a little curious about what’s out there.

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The World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City, Kansas

Image: Amie Bell

It started small. Then the neighbors added to it. Then visitors joined in. Now, it’s a Midwest legend. The World’s Largest Ball of Twine keeps growing, with a yearly "twine-a-thon" that invites everyone to contribute. It’s quirky, community-powered, and a great example of how something ordinary can become roadside-worthy.

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The World’s Largest Collection of the World’s Smallest Versions of the World’s Largest Things – Lucas, Kansas

Image: Nik

Yes, that’s the real name. And yes, it’s every bit as whimsical as it sounds. Artist Erika Nelson created this traveling museum of tiny replicas, honoring America’s obsession with "world’s largest" attractions. It’s part satire, part celebration, and completely charming.

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Texas

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

Also known as the Lone Star, Texas’ flag features a single star on a vertical blue stripe, representing the state’s strong independent spirit. The red stripe represents courage, while the white stripe stands for purity.

In fact, the current design was adopted in 1839 during the Republic of Texas, echoing the state's history as an independent republic before joining the Union in 1845.

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California

Image: Lesli Whitecotton

California's flag features a grizzly bear, a symbol of strength and independence. The star represents California's status as a republic in 1846 during the Bear Flag Revolt, and the red stripe signifies courage.

Interestingly, the bear depicted on the 1911 version of the flag is said to have been inspired by the last California grizzly bear held in captivity.

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Arizona

Image: Denisse Leon

Arizona’s flag features a golden star surrounded by red and gold rays, symbolizing both the state’s arid landscape and copper mining industry. The blue and red colors are the same shade used on the flag of the United States.

The star commemorates Arizona’s statehood, achieved in 1912, while the thirteen rays symbolize the original Thirteen Colonies.

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Colorado

Image: Courtney Cook

Colorado’s flag features blue, white, red, and yellow with a bold "C" encircling a golden disk. The blue symbolizes the sky, gold represents the state’s abundant sunshine, white the snowcapped Rockies, and red the "ruddy" earth.

The gold and white elements also honor Colorado’s gold and silver mining industries. Officially adopted in 1911, the flag stands as a tribute to the state’s natural beauty and pioneering heritage.

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Florida

Image: Karl Callwood

Florida’s flag features a red cross with the state seal at the intersection. The cross represents the state's Spanish heritage, as it was originally founded by Spanish explorers.

The seal depicts a shoreline where a Seminole woman spreads flowers. While some suggest the woman represents the historical heroine Milly Francis, there is no evidence to support this theory. A Sabal palm and a steamboat complete the scene, reflecting Florida's vibrant scenery.

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Maryland

Image: Gary Cole

Maryland’s flag stands out with its bold black and gold pattern, divided into quarters. The design incorporates elements from the family crest of the Calverts, the state’s founding family.

During the colonial era, Maryland used only the gold and black Calvert arms. The colors fell out of use after American independence but were reintroduced in 1854.

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South Carolina

Image: Kelly

South Carolina’s flag features a white palmetto tree on a blue field, with a crescent moon beside it. The roots of this design have existed in some form since 1775, being based on one of the first American Revolutionary War flags.

An early version of this flag, known as the Moultrie Flag, was famously flown during the defense of a fortress on Sullivan's Island against the British fleet. The palmetto tree was later added as a symbol of the island’s successful defense.

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Tennessee

Image: Brandon Hooper

Tennessee’s flag features three stars arranged in a triangular pattern, symbolizing the three regions of the state —East, Middle, and West Tennessee. The red, white, and blue colors align with the state’s commitment to unity and its place in the Union.

The current version, designed by Colonel Le Roy Reeves, was adopted in 1905. However, an earlier version already aimed to represent the state's three distinct regions with three slanted bars of red, white, and blue.

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Hawaii

Image: little plant

Hawaii’s flag is unique among U.S. state flags. It features a Union Jack in the upper left corner, reflecting the historical ties between Britain and the Hawaiian Kingdom. It was first adopted in the early 19th century by the Kingdom of Hawaii and retained when the state joined the U.S. in 1959.

The eight horizontal stripes represent the eight main islands of Hawaii: Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi, and Niʻihau.

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Indiana

Image: Lucas Beck

Indiana’s flag features a large gold torch, with 19 smaller stars surrounding it, representing Indiana's status as the 19th state to join the Union. The torch symbolizes enlightenment and the path to progress.

Adopted in 1917, the flag’s design was chosen through a contest offering a cash prize. The winning design, created by Paul Hadley of Mooresville, Indiana, was selected as the official flag with only minor modifications.

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Maine

Image: Aubrey Odom

Maine’s flag features a shield with a pine tree at its center, flanked by a farmer and a sailor, representing the state’s agricultural and maritime heritage. The North Star above the shield symbolizes guidance and Maine’s motto, "Dirigo," meaning "I Lead."

The pine tree is a nod to Maine’s nickname as the Pine Tree State. Adopted in 1909, the flag’s design emphasizes Maine’s strong connection to its natural resources.