Gorgeous Places in the United States

In each of America’s 50 states

Mylène Besançon
13 min readApr 17, 2020

With the start of a new decade comes a new direction and a new theme for living my life. Harmony all around is the hallmark I am standing by.

Below are some of the gorgeous places in the United States I have been to or have in mind to check out in the future. Enjoy!

California Golden Gate Bridge

By Mylène Besançon

Certainly one of the most iconic landmarks in San Francisco and the United States. Fact #1: An earthquake struck the bridge before it was completed. Fact #2: Has been an important gateway for growth in the San Francisco area, including in the tech field.

Colorado Maroon Bells

By Frank Kovalchek: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.

A combination of a glassy lake and two iconic mountain peaks (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak) have given this landmark the reputation of the most photographed spot in Colorado.

New York Statue of Liberty

By annegaellecahuzac: Need Pix

Located on Liberty Island, this 93 meters high sculpture is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the U.S. The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States from the people of France to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the alliance between the two countries during the American Revolution.

Hawaii Waikiki Beach

By tommy143: Pixabay

Thing huge oceanfront resorts and miles of white sandy beach and it’s not hard to see why Waikiki is the biggest draw for tourists visiting Hawaii. As one of the most gorgeous places in the United States, Waikiki Beach accounts for over 40% of revenues pulled in annually by the state’s tourism industry, amounting to over $2 billion.

Georgia Savannah

By lroberg: BigStockPhoto

Every March, Savannah attracts some of the best music bands during what is called the Savannah Stopover music marathon. The musicians' stopover on their way to SXSW in Austin, creating a cool 4-day festival in the process. I’m interested in music, dance, entrepreneurship, entertainment, travels, innovation, romantic realism, so I am naturally drawn to talking about any event that hits on one of those topics.

Illinois Chicago

By Mylène Besançon

Home to iconic sites such as the Millennium Park and Navy Pier, the Windy City is among the country’s most dynamic urban centers. When we will return, I am thinking to enjoy the skyline of the city of Chicago from a yacht. As a side note, I’m including my pictures and I’m not brainstorming too much about details or flawless quality contrary to some aspects of my current job — it’s just a relaxing-like article! :-)

Alabama–Shopping or Lake Guntersville

By glorife: Pixabay

Planning to do some shopping or perhaps taking a drive to Lake Guntersville? This lake was created by the Gunterville and stretches for 75 miles between Guntersville and Bridgeport. Enjoy more than 30 miles of hiking trails, fabulous panoramas and numerous sites for viewing wildlife.

Alaska Denali National Park

By sab_k: Pixabay

One of the largest national parks in the US and is comprised of Mt. McKinley, also called Denali, which is the highest mountain in North America.

Arizona – Grand Canyon National Park

By egorshitikov: Pixabay

Grand Canyon National Park pretty much speaks for itself. I am also curious to check the restaurant scene in the suburb of Phoenix at Paradise Valley.

Arkansas Fayetteville

By Brandonrush: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Ranked as one of the top five best places to live in America three years in a row. I last visited with Chris’ American family.

Connecticut Hartford

By Kenneth C. Zirkel: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.

Famous TV writer and author Suzanne Collins (Hunger Games) and celebrated banker J.P. Morgan (JPMorgan Chase) are among a number of known celebrities who were born in Hartford, Connecticut.

Delaware Fenwick Island

By Tex Jobe: Public Domain

A small coastal town and one of the so-called “Quiet Resorts” in Delaware due to its laidback vibe. I may not become a fan of all my previous recommendations in years down the road. However, it’s safe to say it could be pleasing to visit all selected places in this article if I ever lack inspiration!

Florida Walt Disney World

By Mylène Besançon

Hands-down one of the most visited attractions in the world and the finest amusement park getaway. I laughed so hard that day; definitely one of The Happiest Places On Earth, in my opinion.

Idaho Idaho State Capitol

By Maxbatt: Public Domain

This 100-year-old building is among the most majestic state capitols in the U.S. and is also listed as a national historic site.

Indiana — Indianapolis

By Momoneymoproblemz: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

Downtown Indianapolis has six distinct cultural districts, all offering a set of shops, dining options, and seasonal activities. Three Dog Bakery, known as the “World’s First Bakery for Dogs”, apparently has a location in the Indianapolis area and I will be looking forward to buying additional high-end pet toys and delicious treats there.

Iowa Sculpture Park

By 12019: Need Pix

A must-visit for art lovers, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park features work from some of the world’s most celebrated artists. I would probably choose to stay at the Hotel Blackhawk, Autograph Collection, if pets are allowed, due to the elegant feel of the hotel with river view and its stylish and contemporary restaurant with modern American cuisine.

Kansas – Town Center

By anneleven: BigStockPhoto

The Barnes & Nobles store in Kansas, Town Center, is your place to be for all things books. Barnes & Nobles is one of America’s largest bookstore chains and boasts a wide selection of books for children and adults. Whether you like to read fiction, biographies, comics, poems, or random stories, reading is one habit that can help you develop as a person in so many ways. Reading can help you calm down, develop your vocabulary, increase your knowledge, or let you ignite your creative mind.

Kentucky — Shopping or Land between the Lakes National Recreation area

By blickpixel : Pixabay

Looking for gifts or exploring the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area? A national recreation area located partly in Kentucky and partly in Tennessee between two created lakes: Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake. Black bears live on the LBL (if you ever encounter a bear, it is commonly accepted to remain still, stand your ground and slowly wave your arms because it helps the bear recognize you as a human).

Louisiana French Quarters New Orleans

By LRMoore: Need Pix

Packed with history and culture, this lively town, with buildings dating back over 300 years, is a favorite for tourists visiting New Orleans in Louisiana. At the Garden District, you can take a walking tour and soak in the beauty around (like the lovely oak tree-lined streets and massive mansions).

Maine Bar Harbor

By Scott Kublin: CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

This seaside community is famous for a lot of things, including lobster and whale watching; also serves as the gateway to the famous Acadia National Park.

Maryland Potomac River

By karelnoppe: BigStockPhoto

Catching the beautiful sunset on the Potomac River is seemingly a mesmerizing experience. You can catch the monumental sunset from the MGM National Harbor’s Potomac Plaza while enjoying some delicious food and drinks or even hop on the Giant Wheel for fun and breathtaking ride. You can also watch the sun set over the horizon from your rental vacation home with your loved-one (I believe the most beautiful sunsets are the ones we share).

Massachusetts Harvard University

By Public Domain: Good Free Photos

Regarded as one of the world’s finest education institutions, Harvard is also home to numerous historic buildings, museums, and other intriguing attractions.

Michigan — Mackinac Island

By odinkadr: BigStockPhoto

TripAdvisor has apparently named Mackinac one of the world’s 15 most romantic island getaways for couples. This unique spot is well known for its ban on almost all motor vehicles. As explained above, I’m interested in romantic realism, music, dance, entrepreneurship, entertainment, travels, and innovation, so I am naturally drawn to talking about any event that hits on one of those topics. Did I also mention water is my favorite element? ;-) What also gets me excited about this location is to try the menu featuring world-renowned chefs.

Minnesota St. Paul Cathedral

By Justin Mier: CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Considered one of the most beautiful structures in the state of Minnesota, this 100-year-old church is designated as a National Shrine and offers guided tours detailing its history.

Mississippi Madison

By Vladimir_Soldatov: BigStockPhoto

There is nothing better than sipping on a warm cup of tea on a cold, chilly day. Whether you like regular milk tea, bubble tea, or the more conscious kind like green or herbal tea, the shops below are listed the best tea places in Madison. Teasider: Famous for its delicious Japanese Matcha. Jade Mountain Tea Company: Famous for bubble teas, also known as Boba or pearl milk tea. Le C’s Patisserie & Tea House: Famous for their unique range of tea that includes pineapple orange green tea and tea with cheese top.

Missouri St. Louis Gateway Arch

By Mylène Besançon

Also called the “Gateway to the West,” this world-renowned arch draws the attention of visitors from all over the globe. During the time I was living there, we had a full view of the arch from our living room. It was pretty cool, especially when there were fireworks, which happened at least once a week at that time, haha.

Montana — Lake McDonald

By GlacierNPS: Public Domain

The largest lake in Glacier National Park, this wonder of nature is also quite picturesque.

Nebraska – Sandhills

By MrWildLife: bigstockphoto

Covering a quarter of the state of Nebraska, the Sandhills stretches approximately 19,000 square miles and was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1984. This quiet and beautiful area is known for its natural sand rolling hills and sand dunes are stabilized by mixed grass praline. But the Sandhills is a must-visit destination. Wondering what’s so amazing about sand dunes? This remarkable area has everything from a Niobrara national scenic river, rare bird sightings, epic paddling, the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, hiking areas, kayaking, and safari adventures.

Nevada Las Vegas

By stokpic: Pixabay

Certainly the most popular and hippest city in Nevada. As they say, what happens in Vegas… This photo featured in the ‘Las Vegas’ category looks quite pretty.

New Hampshire Mount Washington Cog Railway

By Peter Broster: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

In operation since 1869, this railway transports tourists to the peak of Mt. Washington, which is the North Appalachian’s highest elevation. Like with many other states in the US, I’m not quite sure what to do for fun in a location I hardly know anything about. Even though I’m not really into trains, this activity seems to be a popular option right now. My family and I will probably end up doing something else, but I thought this recommendation might be helpful to you!

New Jersey USS New Jersey Battleship

By Quantockgoblin: Public Domain

Described as the world’s greatest battleship, now a floating museum for anyone to enjoy. New Jersey is also called the Garden State. Pictured above are the Nassau Tigers in front of Princeton University.

New Mexico Albuquerque

By kalasoft: Pixabay

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta creates an enchanted world of numerous shape balloon rodeos, twilight bal.

North Carolina Biltmore Estate

By Kamoteus: CC BY 2.0

People flock to this 250-room mansion and architectural marvel, a private home which was built by George Washington Vanderbilt II.

North Dakota Frontier Village and the National Buffalo Museum

By Geof Wilson: CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Home to both living bison and a concrete version of the majestic beasts. Update as of 2022: Our trip to North Dakota was enhanced by the people we met there. Thumbs up all the way.

Ohio National Museum of the US Air Force

By NearEMPTiness: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license

Quite the collection of aviation artifacts, including modern technology. One of the top tours you can do for free in Ohio.

Oregon Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

By X-Weinzar: Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license

As the name suggests, it’s a highly picturesque spot known for its stunning views and lovely waterfalls.

Pennsylvania Hershey Park

By Jim, the Photographer: Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0)

Related to the chocolate brand, this amusement park offers a whole range of fun and entertainment activities for young and old and in between. I heard Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia is also worth the trip.

South Carolina Myrtle Beach

By 472619: Pixabay

A 60-mile stretch of beach flanked by numerous golf courses and mini-golf courses along the Grand Strand and further inland.

South Dakota Mount Rushmore

By Ken Lane: CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The most visited tourist attraction in South Dakota, designing the sculpture began in 1927 but was completed in 1991. My husband and I totally enjoyed our time there.

Oklahoma Oklahoma City

By ShaneLinkcom: bigstockphoto

If you are looking for a truly unique and adventurous experience, then the Oklahoma City Zoo is considered to be a must-visit. This zoo and botanical garden is huge and spread across 1300 acres of land that is home to more than 1,900 species of animals. This place has something for all age groups — from camel rides, giraffe feeding platforms, sea lion presentations, an endangered species carousel for kids (a great way to spread more awareness about endangered species) to safari cart tours. This place is open every day and you will surely need the whole day to explore and experience the different animals and programs. The Oklahoma City Zoo also boasts quite a few dining options and cafes that offer amazing food. The best part about the zoo is it connects you to conservation projects around the world.

Tennessee Nashville

By Ifistand: BigStochPhoto

Known for its energy and vibrancy, Nashville is one of the most famous music destinations in the world. Pictured is a landmark called “The Bicentennial Mall Carillon”. The culinary landscape is worth a mention as well.

Texas Alamo

By Stuart Seeger: CC BY 2.0

Another historically significant site with a huge story to match.

Utah Bryce Canyon National Park

By Public Domain

Visually stunning and breathtaking with more views than one can possibly handle.

Vermont Church Street Marketplace

By Church Street Marketplace: CC BY 2.0

A dream hangout spot for lovers of ice cream. A 30-minute tour highlights the manufacturing process of one of the world’s most iconic ice cream brand (Ben & Jerry’s). I am looking forward to the experience and going back home with my family full of enriching memories and more motivated than ever.

Virginia Luray Caverns

By adoborepublic: Need Pix

Discovered in 1878, this cave boasts some of the most impressive rock formations.

Rhode Island Block Island

By Timothy J. Quill: All the licenses

Oozing a romantic getaway vibe, this spot offers much to do and observe. Landmarks include the famous Southeast Lighthouse.

Washington Seattle Center

By Jeffery Hayes: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license

In addition to checking out the Space Needle, there are tons of activities to encounter at this famous landmark.

West Virginia New River Gorge Bridge

By Famartin: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license

Built 876 feet above the canyon floor, making this one of the highest steel bridges in this part of the world (and one of the most photographed).

Wisconsin Milwaukee Museum

By Dori: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 United States license

Nearly 25,000 pieces of artwork make this attraction one of the largest and important art lover’s paradise in the United States.

Wyoming Yellowstone

By John Sullivan: Good Free Photos

One of the world’s most interesting national parks, this United States gem encompasses everything from wildlife to fantastic scenery.

And that’s it for my top spots to visit as it relates to gorgeous places to visit in the United States.

“Don’t worry about the world ending today. It’s already tomorrow in Australia.” ~ Charles M. Schulz

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Mylène Besançon
Mylène Besançon

Written by Mylène Besançon

Busy with family, business and sweet things in life. 📚 🎉 💍 ❤️ ✈️ 🏘️ 🇨🇦 🇺🇸 🇫🇷 Co-founder Tunedly.com and BringMySongToLife.com