11 American Attractions you can’t miss!

America is filled with destination stops for the multitude of travel lovers. We could certainly never capture every single iconic American attraction but we have compiled a brief list of highlights we've seen throughout our adventures that we think everyone should experience at least once. We hope you enjoy learning about them and one day have the opportunity to capture a moment at one of these highlighted American attractions. 

1. Bixby Bridge

Possibly one of the most iconic scenes that the Pacific Coast Highway has to offer is Bixby Bridge, named after pioneer Charles Bixby, who after falling in love with the West Coast suggested building a road to connect the residents of Big Sur to the surrounding areas. This suggestion which didn't go into effect until years later would forever change this West Coast route which would become one of America's top attractions. 

2. Charleston Market

When in Charleston, South Carolina, check out the Market Place. If you're lucky, maybe you will head home with one of the locally made sweetgrass baskets or pieces of art. Charleston, SC holds a special place in our hearts personally but it also holds a special place in the heart of America, easily being labeled one of its top attractions.
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The city was recently the number 1 city in the USA for the fourth consecutive year which clearly shows that folks can't get enough southern charm and hospitality that flows out of this historic port city. Walk the cobble streets, check out the historical homes, soak in vistas from the battery, and dine the endless top class restaurants and don't forget to take a peek inside the vibrant Market Place. Charleston is certainly an American attraction you can't miss. 

3. Beale Street

For those music and history lovers, look no further than Memphis, Tennessee. This American attraction is a lively experience you don't want to miss. Not only is Memphis home to the iconic Sun Studios and Peabody Hotel, it is also home to some of the country's best music, past and present.

In fact, the first blues song in America was documented to come from this soulful town. Located along the Mississippi River, this American attraction first thrived off its accessible location. After long days of working, the locals would head into town for a chance to relax and have a good time. This led them straight to Beale Street where sounds of blues and booze filled the streets promising an eventful evening.

Memphis also played a historically prominent role in the Civil Rights Movement. Head just down the street from Beale and you will come across the infamous Lorraine Motel where the beloved Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in 1968.
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Another iconic figure to walk the streets of Memphis was the "king of rock 'n' roll," Elvis Presley, a singer and actor who is buried at his Graceland home just outside of downtown. Memphis has experienced the many footsteps of history, talent, and change and is still a thriving "soul-filled" town. This American attraction, while often overlooked, needs to be a priority on your bucket list. 

4. hollywood Sign

This American attraction is likely familiar to just about everyone. This iconic region of central Los Angeles houses landmarks such as the TLC Theater, Paramount Pictures and the infamous Hollywood Sign. The Hollywood Sign is an American attraction that will leave you stunned by breathtaking views of one of the most dreamed about cities of the United States.
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For several helpful tips for hiking to this iconic vista for yourself  while bypassing the crowds, as well as parking tips and advice, check out our Los Angeles post here.

5. fOURTH OF JULY IN THE NATION'S CAPITAL

For anyone fond of fireworks and tradition, heading to the Nations Capital for its Independence Day celebration is a must! Check out a Nationals baseball game before heading over to the National Mall where you can sit atop the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and watch your most thrilling firework show yet!

6. waterfalls along the blue ridge parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a vast winding road traversing 469 of the most scenic miles of the Appalachian Mountains. Along it's scenic drive you will encounter a number of opportunities to pull off on the side of the road and hike to both well-known and hidden wonders, including the likes of several majestic waterfalls.
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Check out Whitewater Falls, the largest waterfall east of the Rockies, or the well known Linville Falls where there's a little something for everyone in the family. Or if your are feeling adventurous you can take your chances at Skinny Dip Falls right before hiking up to Log Hollow Falls. When in Appalachia, find a waterfall! 

7. golden gate bridge

At Best Captured it's no secret that we LOVE sunrises, and while this is true for numerous locations around the globe it is especially true of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Sure you can take the time to walk or ride across the bridge but there is something about seeing this beauty in the dawn of the day that brings out its character.

Our favorite spots for viewing this spectacle include the Marin Headlands Vista Point and the Beach at Kirby Cove. For more tips and recommendations for a quick visit to San Francisco check out our travel guide here.

8. Luckenbach, Texas

This community in the midst of Texas Hill country is an American attraction that can't be missed when in the Lone Star State. Known for housing some of country's most well known country singers, this trading post truly reflects "A State of Mind." Head onto the dirt streets that make up the main roads in this community and it won't be long before you're finding a spot to kick back and relax.

9. The giANT sEQUOIAS 

These larger-than-life American attractions have drawn people of all kinds in for centuries. Many with high anticipation of what it feels like to stand amongst the magnificence of the world's largest trees. We personally think the best way to experience these famed giants is by camping beneath their trunks and gazing up at a backsplash of stars.

For more details about the visiting these gentle giants for yourself you can check out our full travel guide here. This American attraction is a natural experience sure to leave you in awe. 

10. Cape Hatteras Lighthouse 

The Outer Banks of North Carolina boasts of several iconic lighthouses but none is more synonymous with the word than the Hatteras Light. Currently ranked as one of the top 25 tallest lighthouses in the world this spiral painted brick marvel is an American attraction for land lovers and seafarers alike.

If you're not intimidated by stairs then you can climb all 257 of them to the top of the 200 foot tall structure for a birds-eye view of the islands and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. In our minds, Hatteras is one of the most amazing places on the East Coast of the US.

​For full disclosure we may be slightly biased on this ranking since both of us are from the state of North Carolina but what is a mark for rankings is a plus for you if you are looking for a local's style guide to the Outer Banks you can check out our weekend travel guide here (but we may be slightly biased since both of us call North Carolina home).

11. Brooklyn Bridge 

New York City, the most populous city in the United States is an American attraction itself but one of its featured attractions is none other than the Brooklyn Bridge. Our recommendation is to take a stroll across one of America's oldest roadways, specifically while the sun is setting. Catch a glimpse of the Manhattan skyline as the color envelopes some of the tallest buildings in the country and the lights begin to turn on in this city that is known to never sleep. 

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Author

We are the Best's! Jo and Mo. We have been immensely blessed with many opportunities to see various parts of the world. We live an average, working life in Raleigh, NC but through our many opportunities have developed a passion to see the world. Our goal is to share with other desiring travelers different tips and experiences from around the world as we begin to check them off our bucket list.  If anything, we hope to provide a little sense of motivation and adventure to those wishing to embark on their own journey! ​​