The top 10 most visited tourist attractions in the USA
The US is one of the most visited countries in the world, as it provides a host of diverse attractions. Here are the 10 most popular sites in the country.
Travel and tourism have make a strong comeback in the US after the pandemic, and the country continues to be one of the top destinations in the world.
According to finance website Insider Monkey, revenue from the travel sector is expected to reach $190 billion this year, while the country’s tourism industry is worth over $1.2 trillion.
The website has compiled a list of top tourist sites in the US, and New York was shown to be home to two of the most visited tourist attractions- Times Square and Central Park.
Here are the places that made it to the top ten list.
Lincoln Park, Chicago, Illinois- 20 million annual visitors
Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s largest and most attractive green spaces, featuring lush landscapes, gardens, and tree-lined paths. It houses the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country. It has a wide variety of animals and offers free admission.
Magic Kingdom, Disney World, Florida- 20 million annual visitors
Magic Kingdom offers the classic Disney experience, featuring Cinderella Castle as its centerpiece. The theme park offers a range of well-known attractions, including Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, It’s a Small World, Haunted Mansion, and the Jungle Cruise.
Niagara Falls, New York- 20 million annual visitors
Niagara Falls, New York, is a popular tourist destination primarily because of the natural wonder it hosts: Niagara Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. Viewing the falls is easily accessible from multiple vantage points, including observation decks, walking paths, and boat tours.
Grand Central Terminal, New York City- 21.6 annual visitors
Grand Central Terminal, which opened in 1913, has a rich history and has played a pivotal role in the development of transportation and commerce in New York City. The terminal is an architectural masterpiece known for its Beaux-Arts style, ornate details, and grandeur. The main concourse’s celestial-themed ceiling with a depiction of the zodiac is particularly famous.
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California- 24 million annual visitors
The park covers more than 1,000 acres and offers a green oasis within the urban environment of San Francisco. Its meadows, gardens, lakes, and tree-lined paths provide an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Golden Gate Park offers views of the surrounding landscape, including that of the Pacific Ocean, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Marin Headlands. These viewpoints provide excellent photo opportunities.
Mall of America, Minnesota- 40 million annual visitors
The Mall of America is one of the largest shopping malls in the world, with over 5.6 million square feet of retail space. Its sheer size alone attracts tourists, but that’s not its only draw. Minnesota does not have a sales tax on clothing and shoes, making the Mall of America an appealing shopping destination for both locals and out-of-state visitors.
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Union Station, Los Angeles, California - 40 million annual visitors
Los Angeles Union Station, opened in 1939, is an example of Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture. Its historical significance as a transportation hub and architecture make it a sought-after attraction. The station has a variety of dining options, including restaurants and cafes, where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the station’s ambience. There are also some retail shops offering souvenirs and gifts.
Las Vegas Strip, Nevada- 42 million annual visitors
The Las Vegas Strip is renowned for its world-class entertainment options. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of performances, from legendary musical residencies and Broadway-style productions to magic shows, comedy acts, and concerts featuring top-tier artists. The Strip is also a gambler’s paradise, offering a wide variety of table games, slot machines, poker rooms, and sports betting venues in hotels and casinos.
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Central Park, New York- 42 million annual visitors
Central Park is home to numerous recognizable landmarks, including Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, Strawberry Fields (a tribute to John Lennon), Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Central Park Conservatory Garden. Central Park has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows (including Friends), and literature, further enhancing its recognition and appeal to tourists worldwide.
Times Square, New York- 50 million annual visitors
At number one is Times Square, one of the most iconic locations in the world. Its bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and electronic billboards have made it a symbol of New York City. The Square is famous for its annual New Year’s Eve celebration, including the ball drop. People from around the globe flock to Times Square to ring in the new year, making it a bucket-list destination for many.