Our analysis of 77 popular points of interest brought some interesting results. While America is known for its impressive theme parks, it’s the natural wonders that really stand out to tourists.
In fact, half of the top 20 places to visit in the US are natural attractions. From the San Antonio River Walk in Texas to Utah’s Zion National Park, America’s diverse landscapes are most likely to meet or exceed travelers’ expectations.
Overall, New York’s Central Park is the most worthwhile attraction in the US. Offering 843 acres of lush greenery in the middle of the city, it’s an urban escape unlike any other in the world.
Close behind are National Mall in 2nd and Balboa Park ranking 3rd, proving that the nation’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty never disappoint.
Here is our complete ranking of the best places to visit in the USA and why they are worth the hype.
| Ranking | U.S. Attraction | Location | Total/5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Central Park | New York, NY | 4.075 |
| 2 | National Mall | Washington, D.C. | 3.994 |
| 3 | Balboa Park | San Diego, CA | 3.795 |
| 4 | Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History | Washington, D.C. | 3.775 |
| 5 | Times Square | New York, NY | 3.730 |
| 6 | Rockefeller Center | New York, NY | 3.721 |
| 7 | Niagara Falls | Buffalo, NY | 3.719 |
| 8 | Golden Gate Park | San Francisco, CA | 3.7187 |
| 9 | Magic Kingdom Park | Orlando, FL | 3.714 |
| 10 | Brooklyn Bridge Park | New York, NY | 3.695 |
| 11 | Hoover Dam | Boulder City, NV | 3.684 |
| 12 | The High Line | New York, NY | 3.6838 |
| 13 | Fountains of Bellagio | Las Vegas, NV | 3.680 |
| 14 | Garden of the Gods | Colorado Springs, CO | 3.669 |
| 15 | The Metropolitan Museum of Art | New York, NY | 3.668 |
| 16 | Zion National Park | Utah | 3.657 |
| 17 | San Antonio River Walk | San Antonio, TX | 3.656 |
| 18 | ICON Park | Orlando, FL | 3.639 |
| 19 | Golden Gate Bridge | San Francisco, CA | 3.636 |
| 20 | Brooklyn Bridge | New York, NY | 3.626 |
20. Brooklyn Bridge
America is renowned for its jaw-dropping scenery, and Brooklyn Bridge is one of the best places to take it all in.
This New York icon scores big with tourists, totaling an impressive 1.83 out of 2 for overall visitor experience. Highlights include the bridge’s neo-Gothic towers and intricate web of suspension cables, as well as sweeping views of the New York skyline, Statue of Liberty, and East River.
Day trippers can walk or bike across, soaking in the sights at their own pace. Easy subway and ferry access also make it easy to reach from anywhere in the city.
But be warned, our analysis of recent visitor experiences reveals that weekends draw crowds.
19. Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge is more than a modern masterpiece—it’s become the city’s best place for breathtaking sunsets and city views. The bridge’s reputation is well earned, averaging an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 74,000 reviewers on Google.
Our analysis of 100 recent visitor reviews revealed that 79% had a positive overall experience. For many, exploring the bridge on an e-bike was a major highlight. However be sure to plan your visit around the weather as fog and wind can quickly spoil the scenery.
This attraction is also a great option for frugal travelers. Not only is it free to visit, but accommodation options in the area are relatively affordable. During August, a 3-star hotel for two will cost around $152.80 per night.
18. ICON Park
ICON Park takes the 18th spot on our list of the best places to go in the US. This Orlando hotspot draws both locals and tourists with its mix of thrills and family fun.
The park’s centerpiece Ferris wheel offers incredible city views, while attractions like Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and SEA LIFE aquarium have something for everyone.
Visitors give ICON Park a strong 1.81 out of 2 for experience. Highlights include clean grounds, family-friendly atmosphere, and free parking and admission. The park’s wide range of dining options wins extra points.
However, travelers should be ready for crowds during peak times. Some attractions can also be costly, but our data shows rooms nearby averaging just $106.60 per night for two guests—the best deal in our analysis.
17. San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk ranks 17th, making it the best place to visit in Texas.
This 15-mile urban waterway weaves through the heart of the city, offering luxury hotels, fine dining, family-friendly theme parks, and a vibrant nightlife.
Despite having just over 38,000 reviews—the second lowest in our report—this lesser-known attraction continues to impress most.
Our sentiment analysis of 100 recent reviews revealed that 93% of visitors had a positive experience. The educational boat tours were particularly memorable, as well as the historic buildings and lively bars and restaurants that hug the river.
Other notable attractions here include the San Antonio Museum of Art, the Pearl District, and Shops at Rivercenter.
The fine print? Prices are high and Texas doesn’t score well for safety—just 0.37 out of 1, the lowest in our report.
16. Zion National Park
Clocking in at #16, Zion National Park is a symphony of sandstone with towering cliffs that paint the sky in every color imaginable.
Although not as popular as the Grand Canyon (35) or Great Smoky Mountains (40), Zion National Park proved to be more affordable for travelers. Accommodation costs in the area averaged around $162.20 per night for two guests, while the Grand Canyon came in at $245.40.
Recent visitor reviews were predominantly positive, highlighting the park’s exhilarating trails including Angels Landing and the ethereal Narrows. Off the beaten track, Utah also scored the highest for safety in our report (0.63/1).
But Zion’s popularity means potential crowds, long shuttle waits, and limited parking. Visitors here should plan ahead to fully enjoy this geological masterpiece.
15. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art (the MET) stands out as a must-visit destination on our list.
Home to some of the world’s greatest artifacts, the museum earned high marks from visitors, with 92% of recent guests reporting a positive experience.
Notable exhibits include The Harlem Renaissance and Transatlantic Modernism and Sleeping Beauties, as well as the Egyptian and Asian Art sections.
However, the museum’s special exhibitions and renowned artworks attract crowds.
The real pinch? Costs. With a low score of 0.67 out of 1 for affordability, the MET ranks among our priciest picks. Expect food inside the museum and nearby hotels ($221.00 per night for two guests) to cut into your budget.
If you can spare the expense, the MET is a bucket-list attraction worth a stop for art lovers and culture seekers.
14. Garden of the Gods
Taking 14th position, the Garden of the Gods certainly lives up to its name.
From 100 recent visitor reviews, 95% expressed a positive experience. Standout attractions for travelers include the towering Balanced Rock and Siamese Twins. The 1,367-acre park also boasts an extensive trail network great for hiking, biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.
However, this spot’s natural beauty attracts crowds. As with many American attractions, peak times can quickly ruin the tranquility here.
For those searching for epic views without the celestial price tag, this Colorado gem delivers—just time your visit wisely.
13. Fountains of Bellagio
Your best bet in Las Vegas might not be at the tables. Along the iconic Las Vegas Strip, the Fountains of Bellagio offers a spectacular show that doesn’t cost a cent.
This impressive water display features 1,214 jets and 4,792 lights that draw in crowds day and night, scoring 1.87/2 for overall visitor experience.
But what really sets this attraction apart is its price.
The display earned an impressive affordability score of 0.83 out of 1, offering world-class entertainment within budget. A 3-star hotel near the Strip averages $166.20 per night for two, while the attraction itself is completely free to watch.
In a city known for excess, the Fountains of Bellagio proves that sometimes, the best places to visit in America are free.
12. The High Line
The High Line, ranking 12th on our list, transforms a historic freight rail line into an elevated urban park in the heart of New York City.
This innovative point of interest scores an impressive 1.92/2 for experience, with 95% of recent visitors enjoying their time here.
The spot offers greenery, diverse art installations, and a serene escape from the bustling streets below—not to mention it’s free.
However, the High Line’s popularity comes with a cost. It can get crowded, especially during peak times, and as a publicly open space, safety is a concern.
For those planning to stay nearby, accommodation costs can also be high, with a 3-star hotel in the area averaging $203.00 per night for two people.
11. Hoover Dam
Straddling the Black Canyon between Nevada and Arizona, Hoover Dam is a true testament to human ingenuity. Ranking 11th, this concrete colossus scores high with recent visitors (1.82/2).
Hoover Dam’s sheer scale impresses most, but it’s the guided tours that truly bring its story to life. Here, tourists learn about the dam’s origins and its ongoing role in power generation.
But as with the temperature, tour prices can soar in the summer. The good news is nearby accommodation is affordable, averaging $137.60 per night for two guests.
10. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park stands out as a visitor favorite, earning the highest experience score in our report at 1.96 out of 2. An impressive 97% of 100 recent visitor reviews were positive, with only one negative response.
The park’s attraction? A blend of natural beauty and iconic city views.
This unique setting distinguishes Brooklyn Bridge Park from traditional tourist hotspots in the area. Visitors here can soak in panoramic vistas of Manhattan’s skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty while enjoying safe green spaces.
Plus, it’s free.
However, budget-conscious travelers should note that hotels in the area reflect New York’s sky-high prices, with a nightly stay averaging $200.40 for two guests.
9. Magic Kingdom Park
Walt Disney’s flagship park, Magic Kingdom, is the only theme park to make it into our top 20 U.S. attractions.
Ranking second in popularity with over 220,000 Google reviews and a 4.6 rating, it’s clear the park still casts a spell on many.
Dining options in the park impress, while classics like the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and nightly firework shows see visitors return year after year.
However, Magic Kingdom scored an average 1.52/2 for visitor experience—the lowest among our top attractions—with complaints ranging from poor park employee service to overpriced tickets and uncontrollable crowds.
Despite the high park fees, hotel prices in the area cater to various budgets, averaging $102.00 per night for two.
For families, Magic Kingdom remains a bucket-list destination. But travelers should weigh the magic against the mounting frustrations and steep costs that come with theme parks.
8. Golden Gate Park
With just over 43,000 reviews on Google, San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park might not be as popular as Magic Kingdom. But this attraction proved to be a firm favorite among visitors in our analysis.
From 100 recent reviews, 93% reported a positive overall experience. A number of attractions stood out to visitors, including unique green spaces like the botanical, Japanese, and rose gardens, as well as the M. H. de Young Memorial Museum.
The expansive grounds also offer a range of activities. From biking and picnicking to exploring world-class museums, there’s plenty to see and do. Best of all, it’s free to enter.
Yet this park isn’t without issues. Car break-ins are a concern, and parking can be challenging.
7. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls claims 7th position, living up to its reputation as one of the great wonders of the world.
Recent visitor experiences revealed a positive score of 1.83/2, with highlights including the Maid of the Mist boat tour and the dazzling evening light show.
However, there are a few red flags.
Due to its popularity, travelers should expect crowded conditions, particularly during peak times. Nearby accommodation (averaging $208.20) and amenities like parking can also be steep.
6. Rockefeller Center
Ranking 6th on our list of the best places to visit in the USA is the iconic Rockefeller Center.
This New York landmark scores high in popularity with more than 178,000 reviews on Google and an average rating of 4.7, solidifying its position as a bucket-list worthy destination.
Our sentiment analysis of recent visitor reviews revealed that 82% had a positive experience. Standout features included the Center’s Art Deco architecture, panoramic city views, and vibrant atmosphere.
The drawbacks?
Long queues, overcrowding, and high prices are common complaints. Overall affordability also scores low, with nearby 3-star hotels averaging $214.40 per night.
Despite the cost, most find the Rockefeller Center worth the splurge. Its blend of history, culture, and urban life promises a quintessential New York experience that’s hard to match.
5. Times Square
Times Square is the third most popular attraction to visit in the entire USA, and fifth in our ranking overall.
The plaza’s claim to fame—a sensory overload of flashing billboards, street performers, and high-end shopping—continues to dazzle many. The spot scored a respectable 1.64/2 for experience.
Yet, beneath the neon glow are public safety concerns and crushing crowds. A stay at a 3-star hotel nearby will also be costly for tourists, averaging $201.20 a night for two guests.
For those wanting to bask in Times Square’s electric atmosphere, visitors are advised to navigate the crowds with caution.
4. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Combining history and nature, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is arguably the best museum in America. Ranked fourth overall in our report, it boasts a visitor experience score of 1.82/2.
Through captivating exhibitions, activities, and ongoing research, the museum brings our planet’s story to life. Highlights include the legendary Hope Diamond, a mesmerizing butterfly pavilion, and numerous interactive displays. The institution also offers free admission.
However, be prepared for sizeable crowds and long waits, especially over weekends and holidays. Another minor drawback is the cafeteria’s underwhelming food quality, which some find overpriced.
3. Balboa Park
Balboa Park claims third place in our rankings, cementing its status as San Diego’s cultural crown jewel.
The 1,200-acre park houses 18 museums, countless gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo, which ranks 39th on our list.
Balboa Park is rated highly among visitors, with 89 positive sentiments and only 3 negative out of 100 recent reviews. Tourists especially love the park’s stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and unique cultural events.
Affordability adds to its appeal, scoring 0.89 out of 1. Visitors can explore the park for free, and 3-star hotels nearby average $138.00 per night for two guests.
2. National Mall
Ranking as the second-best place to visit in the United States, National Mall features over 100 monuments and memorials, all sharing a special part of America’s history.
With so much to offer, the attraction earns high marks from visitors, with 86% reporting a positive experience. Reviewers frequently used the word “great” (over 20 times) to describe their visit. One visitor even praised the landmark as a “true national treasure.”
Travelers recommend seeing the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is also a “must-visit” according to our analysis.
For those who time their visit carefully, the early spring cherry blossom bloom offers a breathtaking spectacle of pink and white that visitors confirm is worth the hype.
The Mall scores well for affordability too, with free entry and nearby 3-star hotels averaging $129.80 per night for two guests
While its popularity can lead to crowded conditions, heavy traffic, and challenging parking situations, this historical landmark continues to tick most boxes for tourists.
1. Central Park
Central Park is the best place to visit in the USA, earning a total score of 4.075 out of 5 in our study.
Tucked between towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, this urban oasis offers a refreshing escape from city life that visitors love. According to our analysis, Central Park is the most popular destination in the US for tourists, with a 4.8 rating on Google and over 270,000 reviews.
From 100 recent visitor experiences, 91% agree that the attraction is well worth the hype. In fact, the word “beautiful” was used 29 times to describe Central Park, with some even referring to it as “the best park in the world.” Visitors especially enjoy the diversity of free activities available here, including picnics, bike rides, and live concerts.
Its popularity and central location does raise a few concerns about cleanliness, crowds, and costly hotel prices (averaging $205.20 per night for two guests).
However, almost all agree: A trip to America isn’t complete without visiting Central Park.
Worst Places To Visit in USA for Tourists
While one amusement park managed to secure a spot in our top 20, numerous others found themselves languishing at the bottom of our list.
To add to the disappointment, some of the biggest tourist traps are names we all know, including Disneyland Park, Six Flags, and SeaWorld.
From lackluster customer service to eye-watering prices, these popular American tourist attractions are raising eyebrows for all the wrong reasons.
