What is America Famous For? Top 35 Popular Places & Things in America

The United States of America (USA) is probably one of the world's most attractive countries, and multiple factors have increased its popularity among tourists. Its Natural wonders, artificial marvels, national parks, theme parks, etc., have made it a popular name for tourism.

If you are planning a holiday here, you should know that the currency used here is the United States Dollar, and as of November, 2022, 1 United States Dollar equals to ₹ 81.59.

Are you wondering what America is famous for? This article will provide a comprehensive guideline about the same.

While considering the things America is known for, you should consider some famous places in this area. Here are some of the best places and landmarks you must check out in America.

1. New York City

When it comes to popular places in America, New York City is always considered. It is a city that never sleeps, comprising some of the highest skyscrapers and popular tourist attractions. You should check out Times Square, Rockefeller Centre, and Central Park. In addition, here, you can find horse-drawn carriages carrying tourists across the city. It upholds the essence of a busy urbanised lifestyle in the US.

2. Statue of Liberty and Times Square

The Statue of Liberty was initially known as the “Liberty Enlightening the World”. Gustave Eiffel designed it, who was also the designer of the Eiffel Tower. The torch in the hands of the statue symbolises enlightenment, lighting the way to freedom. On the other hand, Times Square is a commercial intersection in NYC, which is also an entertainment hub. So people visiting the US do not miss visiting these two places.

3. Hollywood

One of the most famous things in America is its show business and the entertainment industry. Hollywood in LA, California, represents the American film industry, which is probably the oldest film industry in the world. It is also known as Tinseltown, home to the most famous film studios, television and record companies. Moreover, the Hollywood sign is visible from the Hollywood hills, and you might even spot some celebrities while visiting this place.

4. Mount Rushmore

America aims to honour its most successful and effective leaders majestically in Mount Rushmore. It is located in South Dakota and has the faces of the biggest American leaders carved into the mountains. These faces belong to Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. You will also find a historical museum that preserves some of these people's important exhibits.

5. The Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is naturally built by the Colorado River and wind erosion. Here, you will find the layer-by-layer formation of sedimentary rocks, which are tightly compressed to create the breathtaking canyon. It is one of the most popular tourist spots, including hiking trails, panoramic vistas, mule rides, and a glass bridge.

6. Golden Gate Bridge

Located in the Golden Gate Strait, this bridge is a famous landmark across California. It is a commercial and cultural centre in northern California, offering a unique travel experience for most people. You can take strolls across this bridge free of cost and take photographs for your travel memories. Moreover, you can get beautiful sunset views from this bridge.

7. White House

One of the most famous buildings in America is the White House in Washington, DC. It is the official residence of the US President. Tourists often prefer checking out this massive, historical building to know more about the political history of this country. It was built in 1800 for the residence of the then US President, and this tradition has continued ever since. You can get free tours in this building, and take great photographs for your reference.

8. Disney World

The origin of Disney cartoons started with Walt Disney, born in Chicago. Some popular characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck are still stuck with most people even after growing up. Walt Disney World is in a massive theme park and an entertainment centre. Here, you can meet all your favourite cartoon characters and enjoy other facilities like Campgrounds and RV parks. Nevertheless, Disney World should definitely be on your wish list if you are travelling with children.

9. The NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is world-famous for its unique scientific and space-related research and discoveries. It has the role of conducting aeronautics, civilian space programmes, and space research. This is one of the most popular and proud aspects of America, whereby NASA scientists have developed their name in the global field of space. It uses some leading astrophysicists and aeronautical engineers to conduct space explorations.

10. The Washington Monument

It is one of the tallest monuments located in Washington, DC. Rising over 555 feet, it is taller than most tourist attractions in DC, including the national mall and the Lincoln memorial. The interiors of this monument are decorated with lush green laws, still waters and beautiful monuments. It is an ideal place to take strolls, photograph, and simply hang out with friends.

11. Silicon Valley

America has maintained a reputation when it comes to managing technology and innovation. Silicon Valley in the Southern part of San Francisco can be considered the leading and largest hub for technology. It is the home to some of the biggest companies in the market, including Google, Apple, Facebook, Tesla, Visa, etc. If you are interested in technology and business, you can visit this place to interact with experts or collaborate with them.

12. Alaska

Being the largest state in the US, Alaska is a perfect tourist destination with its beautiful geographical features. It has the longest coastline in the country, covering 6,640 miles. Additionally, it has more than 2,600 islands and an impressive range of wildlife, including polar bears and grizzly bears. Moreover, it has higher mountains and is covered with many lakes. You will also find active glaciers and icefields here.

13. Yosemite National Park

You can visit this national park to observe and admire America's natural beauty. It covers 768,000 acres of national parkland. Here, you can find spectacular hiking trails with sloping mountains. Moreover, it is surrounded by thick, dense forests and beautiful waterfalls. This park has also gained popularity for its stunning meadows, glaciers, and biological diversity.

14. Central Park

This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City. It covers 843 acres, including hiking trails, lakes, and miles of land for picnics and strolls. This park also hosts various events, music concerts, festivals, etc. Its popularity is evident as film-makers like to feature it in Hollywood movies. Almost every kind of tourist will enjoy a tour of this park, as it serves all interests.

15. South Beach

Are you a beach person? Do not forget to check out South Beach while travelling to America. It is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches in the entire country. It is located in Florida and is a part of Miami Beach, and has gained popularity for the favourable weather, multiple parks, easy transportation and event inaugurations. Tourists can also enjoy numerous games and water sports here. In addition, you can also spend time in luxurious hotels and resorts around this area.

16. French Quarter

If you want a slight European touch to the US streets, go to the French Quarter. It is mainly famous for Bourbon Street or Rue Bourbon, which can be heavenly for tourists who enjoy Bourbon. Moreover, it offers great nightlife with parties and nightclubs. French settlers established this city in 1718, which features an old French style of design and architecture. Moreover, New Orleans has gained popularity among tourists mainly because of the French Quarter.

17. Yellowstone National Park

While listing some of the most popular things in America, you can consider these national parks in Montana, Wyoming and Idaho. It is the most visited national park in America, showing its popularity among tourists. You can find lush green natural forests, shaded pathways and babbling brooks in this park. Moreover, there are other natural beauties in the form of hot springs, geysers, and other magnificent waterfalls.

18. The National Mall

Located in Washington, DC, this mall is a major landmark. It consists of many well-known museums, including Common Ground, Freer Gallery of Art Courtyard Garden, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Mary Livingston Ripley Garden, etc. Moreover, it features the Peace Monument, United States Botanic Garden, and James A. Garfield Monument. Visiting this place will help you learn about US culture and architecture.

19. The Mountain Music Trail

You will find this trail while travelling through West Virginia along Route 219. This trail covers a long area, from the remote North towns to the Southern hills. You must visit it if you enjoy music and cultural events. The Mountain Music Trail brings together various festivals, venues, musicians, radio stations, music groups, etc., to maintain the legacy of old West Virginia music. Here, you can enjoy a wide range of music, including bluegrass, traditional, Irish, folk, classic country, Celtic and gospel.

20. Fort Sumter National Monument

This is another popular place to preserve the history and heritage of the country. It is a reminder of the infamous first shots of the civil war, which took place in this fort. Additionally, it acted as a primary military base during the war. If you wish to learn more about the divisive history of America, you should check out this monument. Further, touring this monument will require you to pay about $15 or more.

21. Appalachian Trail

If you are a hiker, the Appalachian Trail should be on your bucket list while visiting the USA. This is a 2,200-mile hiking trail in the Eastern US through the Appalachian Mountain Range. As this trail travels through 14 states, you can observe stunning views while hiking. Moreover, you might spot wild ponies on this trail, which is a picturesque view. Apart from hiking, you can also consider photography on this trail.

22. The Alamo

This is another well-known place to visit in the US. It is known for its prominence in the Texas Revolution. Therefore, it plays an important part in the Texas independence struggle. This makes it a great monument supporting a large amount of American history. Moreover, the hallways of the Alamo have beautifully preserved the entire story of the independence struggle while including some individual tales related to this incident.

23. Gateway Arch

Also known as the “Gateway to the West”, Gateway Arch has been a popular tourist attraction in the US over the years. It is located in St. Louis, Missouri, along the Mississippi River banks. One of its features includes its height of 630 feet, making it the tallest artificial monument in the US. The beautiful architecture attracts the eyes. It has gained tourist popularity since it commemorates this country's westward expansion.

24. Niagara Falls

Located in Ontario, Niagara Falls rightfully upholds the natural beauty of this country. It includes three falls: American Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. It has the highest flow rate of any other waterfall in America, which makes it highly popular among tourists. In addition, its vertical drop is about 50 meters, which makes it even more stunning. Tourists visit this place to observe the natural waterfall and take photographs.

If you are still confused about what America is known for, you should know other factors besides the best places and monuments to visit. These factors are listed below.

25. Hot Dogs and Bagels

Bagels and hot dogs have gained popularity among other delicious food items within the US cuisine. Americans enjoy hot dogs in a street cart or in fast-food chains. New York and Chicago have some of the best places for trying hot dogs. On the other hand, bagels are circular-looking dishes with various types of stuffing. In addition, you will find these in every street of America and can have them for breakfast, lunch or even as dessert.

26. American BBQ

There can be debates on this, as barbeque originated in the Caribbean. However, its popularity has led to its easy accessibility across the world. It has been integrated into the suburban family culture of America, where you will find a backyard barbeque on most family luncheons. As tourists, you will be able to find delicious BBQ food in different eateries, based on the price and quality.

27. Wildlife

America might come across as a country for business, innovation and technology. However, it is not completely devoid of animals and wildlife. You will find the American beaver, the second-largest rodent species, super unique and rare. If you move to the Southeastern side, you might spot American alligators and moose. Moreover, you can also spot the nine-banded armadillo in this country. In the northern parts, you will find the Arctic wolves, which hardly attack people.

28. Baseball and Football

America has also been popular because of sports. Baseball is often considered a completely American sport. This attracts sports enthusiasts to follow the matches. Moreover, there are collectable cards of famous baseball legends here, which are highly expensive. American football, on the other hand, is an amalgamation of soccer and rugby-style team sport. The football Super Bowl conducted yearly also attracts tourists.

29. Music

Apart from its movies, the USA is also popular for its musical hits. These include rock-n-roll, jazz, traditional pop, blues, country, bluegrass, R&B, pop, hip hop, etc. Some prominent musicians like Elvis Presley, Billie Holiday, Michael Jackson, Taylor Swift, Madonna and Beyoncé have a major fan following across the globe. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Graceland mansion in Memphis are made to pay homage to the musicians and their creations.

30. Classic Diners

America is home to a range of classic diners, meeting the budget ranges of citizens and tourists. These diners offer common American cuisines like burgers, fries, coffee, milkshakes, and pies. Moreover, some of these diners have transformed to serve high-end versions of traditional comfort food to offer better options for the customers. You can easily spot these eateries across America.

31. Wineries

America is popular for its wine, encouraging tourists to try it or even procuring it as souvenirs. Multiple wineries offer world-class wine. About 200 vineyards sprawl over huge areas, keeping the wine production in line. The American wine industry includes some prominent names, including Willamette Valley, Napa Valley, Finger Lakes, and Virginia Wine Country.

32. Bourbon

The bourbon industry is also growing, and America has not stayed behind in producing good quality bourbon. Kentucky alone produces 96% of the world's Bourbon, storing nearly 4.7 million barrels. Therefore, you must visit the State of Kentucky if you are a Bourbon fan. It will enable you to taste the best quality Bourbon and even purchase it for your friends and families while visiting America.

33. Culture

America has a vast and diverse culture, as it is a home to citizens from multiple cultural backgrounds and ethnicities. The common pop culture here is a blend of Western and European origin. Moreover, African American, Asian American, Latin American, and Native American cultures also influence American culture.

34. Festivals

Tourists are also attracted to popular festivals in America. Some common festivals here include Louisiana’s Jazz Fest, Burning Man in the Nevada desert, and the sun-soaked stages of Coachella. Moreover, the Kutztown Folk Festival celebrating the Pennsylvanian German population attracts tourists. Finally, if you enjoy colours and vibrancy, you will like the New Orleans Mardi Gras, where citizens dress up in colourful costumes and parade around America.

35. Explore Rich History

If you wonder what the USA is known for, you must consider exploring its rich history and heritage. It has been the home to some of the most eminent historical figures, including Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, John F. Kennedy, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, and many others. Their contributions in multiple fields, like art, music, business, literature, science, etc., have also been widely recognised.