1

#15 - Lake Michigan (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin)

Image: Adam Bouse

Lake Michigan is a stunning natural treasure. Towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and urban centers line up along its shores. Visitors flock to breathtaking hiking trails, like the ones in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .

The lake's expanse touches several major cities, including Chicago, Milwaukee, and Traverse City, which explains the endless flow of tourists arriving each year.

2

#14 - Flathead Lake (Montana)

Image: Josiah Gardner

Flathead Lake is a peaceful haven nestled between Glacier National Park and the Mission Mountains. Its vast, crystal-clear waters are ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

Surrounding small towns like Polson and Bigfork welcome visitors with their charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Visitors can also join boat excursions to Wild Horse Island, where bighorn sheep and wild horses roam.

3

#13 - Lake Champlain (New York, Vermont)

Image: Ronan Furuta

Lake Champlain is the choice for history fans. Its guided tours explore the region’s rich history , including Revolutionary War sites and stories of naval battles fought on the lake.

The lake spans the border between New York and Vermont, with nearby towns such as Burlington and Plattsburgh, which offer waterfront dining and quaint streets.

4

#12 - Grand Lake (Colorado)

Image: Ellery Sterling

This is the largest natural lake in Colorado. Right by Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake offers a serene escape into the state’s breathtaking wilderness.

The town of Grand Lake is also known for its historic boardwalk and artistic community . The area is particularly popular during winter when visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, ice fishing, and proximity to ski resorts.

5

#11 - Lake Okeechobee (Florida)

Image: Heiner

Known as Florida’s "Inland Sea," Lake Okeechobee is the state’s largest freshwater lake.

Herons, egrets, and ospreys can be spotted here. The lake also offers some of the best bass fishing in the country, which has turned it into a world-famous spot for fishing enthusiasts.

6

#10 - Lake George (New York)

Image: Bill Alexy

Sparkling waters surrounded by the Adirondacks, Lake George was dubbed the " Queen of American Lakes ." Visitors know it as a perfect spot for hiking, boating, and camping. The village of Lake George is a lively hub with restaurants, shops, and events like the annual Adirondack Balloon Festival.

7

#9 - Crater Lake (Oregon)

Image: velichor

Famous for its deep blue color and clarity, Crater Lake is the centerpiece of Crater Lake National Park. The lake formed within a collapsed volcano and is the deepest in the United States. Visitors can take guided boat tours to Wizard Island or explore hiking trails around the caldera.

8

#8 - Lake Powell (Arizona, Utah)

Image: Carmel Rossen

Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir straddling the Arizona-Utah border. It attracts approximately two million visitors yearly. A unique sight, this beloved destination is lined with striking geological formations like Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural arches.

9

#7 - Lake Superior (Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin)

Image: Hans Isaacson

Of course, it’s on the list: Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area . Its vast expanse is lined with forests, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches.

Visitors explore spots like Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with its sea caves and historic lighthouses, or the charming town of Duluth, Minnesota, known for its shipping heritage and beautiful harbor.

10

#6 - Lake Havasu (Arizona, California)

Image: Jack Nueva

Lake Havasu straddles the Arizona-California border and offers an array of activities, from jet skiing and paddleboarding to relaxing on its sandy beaches. The nearby Lake Havasu City hosts famous events, including a hot air balloon festival and classic car shows.

11

#5 - Lake Tahoe (California, Nevada)

Image: Artur Westergren

In summer, visitors flock to Lake Tahoe's beaches for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while winter transforms the area into a skiing and snowboarding paradise . Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife.

12

#4 - Lake Mead (Nevada, Arizona)

Image: Brett Funk

Lake Mead is a reservoir formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River. It’s not just the largest reservoir in the country by volume , but also a popular recreational hotspot.

Its sprawling waters and rugged desert surroundings attract boaters, anglers, and hikers, and its proximity to Las Vegas has certainly helped attract tourists.

13

#3 - Lake Erie (Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York)

Image: Nicholas Mullins

As one of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie combines stunning coastal scenery with wineries and charming towns like Put-in-Bay, where visitors can tour historical sites and enjoy waterfront dining. The lake is also known for its diverse fish population, which has turned it into a top destination for anglers .

14

#2 - Lake Washington (Washington)

Image: Henry Fraczek

Lake Washington, near Seattle, is surrounded by affluent neighborhoods and parks. The lake is also home to floating homes , famously featured in the movie Sleepless in Seattle .

Visitors can explore nearby attractions like the University of Washington Arboretum and take guided boat tours offering views of Mount Rainier and the Seattle skyline.

15

#1 - Lake of the Ozarks (Missouri)

Image: Davis Patton

Known for its distinctive serpentine shape, Lake of the Ozarks features over 1,100 miles of shoreline. Osage Beach serves as the main hub for dining, shopping, and nightlife.

Another popular attraction is its nearby caves , some with unique phenomena like the Angel Showers, a constant shower of water dripping from the solid rock ceiling.

1

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.

2

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.

3

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?

4

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.

5

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!

6

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.

7

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.

8

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!

9

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!

10

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!

1

Alaska is so big, it could fit Texas inside twice

Image: Paxson Woelber

Sure, everything’s bigger in Texas… but where does that leave Alaska? The Last Frontier spans about 663,000 square miles , while the Lone Star State covers roughly 268,000 square miles. So yes, you could comfortably fit Texas inside Alaska twice, and still have room left over for California.

2

You could stack 10 Washington Monuments inside the Grand Canyon’s depth

Image: Sonaal Bangera

At its deepest point, the Grand Canyon plunges more than 6,000 feet. That’s more than a mile of height, to give you an idea. To put that in perspective, the 555-foot-tall Washington Monument could fit inside the canyon roughly ten times from top to bottom.

3

The Statue of Liberty’s sandal is the size of a small car.

Image: A n v e s h

Have you ever paid attention to the Statue of Liberty’s feet? Yes, they are visible, right next to the broken shackles at her base. You can’t stand next to the feet, of course, but if you could, you’d see that each sandaled foot measures about 25 feet long , which is a bit over the length of a Chevy Suburban.

4

The Empire State Building was built faster than a modern kitchen remodel

Image: Kit Suman

Did you know that one of the most famous buildings in the world was pretty much speed-built? Construction took just 410 days , starting in 1930 and finishing in 1931. This rapid progress was possible thanks to prefabricated steel parts and a workforce of roughly 3,400 workers each day. Nowadays, your average kitchen renovation takes 6 months to a year.

5

If the Earth were the size of a basketball, the Moon would be a tennis ball 24 feet away

Image: Anne Nygård

This is a fun way to illustrate the relationship between our planet and its satellite. If Earth were the size of a basketball (about 9.5 inches in diameter), the Moon would be roughly the size of a tennis ball (about 2.5 inches).

But they would be a whopping 24 feet away, about the length of a stretch limousine (or a Statue of Liberty sandal). This scale model helps explain just how far apart and disproportionate they really are!

6

A single cloud can weigh as much as 90 elephants

Image: Volodymyr Dobrovolskyy

Clouds may not look heavy, but these giant beauties are surprisingly massive. Scientists estimate that an average fluffy cumulus cloud contains about 1.1 million pounds of water, which is roughly the weight of 90 adult African elephants .

7

You could fit 7 Yankee Stadiums inside the Mall of America

Image: David Vives

With over 5.6 million square feet, the Mall of America is one of the largest indoor spaces in the country . Imagine trying to meet your friends in just one of its 500+ stores!

The mall also features an indoor amusement park and an aquarium. To give you an idea, Yankee Stadium covers roughly 800,000 square feet. You could fit about seven of them within the Mall of America.

8

A hummingbird flaps its wings faster than a car engine runs

Image: James Wainscoat

Hummingbirds beat their wings between 50 and 80 times per second , roughly eight times faster than the revolutions per second of a typical V8 engine at idle. No wonder they have enough force to seemingly fly in place!

9

Comparing lightning bolts with defibrillator shocks

Image: chutipon Pattanatitinon

The energy in lightning bolts can vary, but it’s not uncommon for them to unleash 5 billion joules . Roughly, a biphasic defibrillator delivers about 200 joules in a single shock. And, to give you an idea, it takes roughly 50,000 joules to toast a single slice of bread.

10

Yellowstone sits on top of a supervolcano the size of Rhode Island

Image: Denys Nevozhai

You might have heard of Yellowstone’s supervolcano and how tourists leave mesmerized by the geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.

But the size of its caldera is even more astonishing: it stretches 20 by 45 miles , covering nearly 1,350 square miles. That’s roughly the same area as Rhode Island, the smallest U.S. state.

11

Niagara Falls could fill an Olympic pool in less than a second

Image: Hadi Yazdi Aznaveh

A standard Olympic-size swimming pool holds about 660,000 gallons. Niagara Falls, however, pours roughly 700,000 gallons of water every second, meaning it could fill a pool in under one second, approximately 0.94 seconds to be exact.

If you were filling the same pool with a standard hose, it could take about 19 days .