100 point visit

Travel bucket list ideas:

100 Bucket list destinations & places to visit

What is a ‘bucket list destination’? By our definition, it’s somewhere you would go specifically to see a world-renowned, must-see ‘bucket list’ attraction – like Niagara Falls or the Taj Mahal. Alternatively, a bucket list destination is a place you go to to just experience the atmosphere and/or beauty of the destination itself – like Prague, Cartagena or Sicily. Mostly, it’s a combination of these, offering a unique, enthralling and unforgettable complement of attractions, tours, activities & events that demand a visit at least once in a lifetime.

Here’s our round-up of the world’s greatest bucket list destinations we think you should visit, along with the main reasons we think you should go. How many have you been to?

From Matt: Some of the bucket list destinations below don’t have guides yet – bear with me, they’re coming soon…

Amalfi Coast

Campania, Italy

Perched along Italy’s mesmerizing coastline, just south of Naples, this heart-stoppingly beautiful coastline is a unique tapestry of dramatic cliffs, colourful towns with tangled old streets, cascading bougainvillaea, and azure water. It’s quintessential la doce vita .

North Holland, Netherlands

Picturesque Golden Age canals, premier league art, cosy cafés, and liberal urban living combine to make Amsterdam one of Europe’s most vibrant capitals.

Andalusia, Spain

Authentic Spain at its dazzling best, a region filled with fascinating cities, beautiful landscapes and beaches, colourful fiestas, sparkling white villages and flamboyant flamenco. Spend time in culture-rich Seville , Malaga , Granada and Cordoba , and wander the incomparable Alhambra .

Antarctica, Argentina

Travel to the end of the Earth, to the last great wilderness, to a dazzling world of snow and ice under an unfiltered cobalt blue sky. Spot penguins, seals and whales, and gasp at vast, blue-white icebergs.

Best for ages: 13+ | Varies | Min 10 days

Central Greece, Greece

Antiquities galore, contemporary culture, scintillating nightlife and fantastic food: there’s something for everyone in Greece’s cosmopolitan capital that’s continuously reinventing itself. Home to the extraordinary Acropolis , the world’s greatest ancient site.

Bali, Indonesia

This tiny Indonesian island is a unique colourful tapestry of natural wonders, emerald rice terraces, Hindu temples and mystical traditions that never fail to capture the soul of anyone who visits. Many go to seek spiritual serenity; others for exceptional surfing and vibrant nightlife in the main towns.

Banff National Park

Alberta, Canada

To experience the magnificence of North America’s Rocky Mountains, there’s no better place than this wilderness of jaw-dropping beauty. It’s a symphony of emerald lakes, towering glaciers, and rugged peaks, best appreciated by driving the Icefields Parkway, riding the Rocky Mountaineer or hiking the many alpine trails.

Central Thailand, Thailand

From dazzling temples to dizzying nightlife, Thailand’s capital is a dish of delicious contradictions that beffudles the senses. One of the world’s most dizzying, fast-paced cities, home to the glittering Grand Palace .

Catalonia, Spain

Spain’s cultural heart has unforgettable architecture, a pioneering arts scene, creative cuisine and nightlife that buzzes till dawn. Home to Gaudi’s extraordinary and greatest creation – La Sagrada Familia .

China’s vibrant capital captives with its unique melding of ancient wonders, bustling hutongs and modern architecture – the food ain’t bad either. Top of the bill are the Forbidden City , the marvellous palace of China’s greatest Emperors – and the extraordinary Great Wall of China .

Bergen (& Fjordland)

Western Norway, Norway

This centuries-old fishing port, filled with beautifully restored, centuries-old wooden houses, has long bewitched visitors, from Vikings and Hanseatic merchants to modern-day travellers. It’s  also the main gateway to exploring Norway’s magnificent fjords.

Europe’s hippest capital boasts non-stop nightlife, cutting-edge fashion, cosmopolitan eats and museum treasures galore. At the centre of the World and Cold Wars, it also oozes history, much of it sobering.

Nestled among the Himalayas, this mountain kingdom beguiles with its untouched beauty and serene spirituality. A land where Gross National Happiness triumphs over GDP, it offers immersive cultural encounters, ethereal monasteries, happy monks and breathtaking landscapes.

Central Hungary, Hungary

Straddling the Danube River, Hungary’s capital is best known for its local custom of thermal bathing – notably at the Art Deco Szechnyi Baths – and its lively ‘ruins bars’ scene. The magnificent Hungarian Parliament is a show-stopper.

Western Cape, South Africa

A vibrant, multicultural city with dramatic scenery, adrenaline adventure galore, Africa’s best art scene, golden beaches, world-renowned wine regions and outstanding gastronomy. All in the shadows of the mighty Table Mountain – great for hiking up, or abseiling down.

Central Anatolia, Turkey

A surreal-shaped landscape rich in troglodytic ruins, walking trails and delightful cave hotels in the ancient heart of Turkey’s Anatolia. Home to the world’s best hot air balloon flight .

Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark

Compact, sexy, culture-rich and charismatic, this most stylish, progressive and tastiest of all the Nordic capitals never disappoints. Go for dinner at the world’s best restaurant, fascinating viking history and leading-edge design.

Rainforests, powdery beaches, white-water rivers and towering volcanoes: this relaxed Central American country offers exceptional wilderness adventures in stunning landscapes.

United Arab Emirates (UAE)

A desert city playground with a unique combination of Arabian culture, mega-malls and audacious architecture in a setting of year-round sun, sand and sea. Home to the world’s tallest building, the soaring Burj Khalifa .

Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Islands

Dalmatia, Croatia

Dazzling Dubrovnik, with its magnificent high stone walls, offers UNESCO-listed heritage set against the pure blue backdrop of the Adriatic. Just offshore, the unspoilt archipelago of the Dalmatian islands for idyllic sailing.

Journey back in time and immerse yourself in the mystical allure of Egypt, a captivating land that unfolds like a living museum. Marvel at awe-inspiring pyramids in Cairo, wander the evocative temples and tombs in Luxor and Aswan .

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany’s capital offers a heady mix of the world’s greatest Renaissance art and architecture, gorgeous palazzos , Tuscan cuisine and home-grown haute couture. A veritable feast for culture vultures, and the Leaning Tower is also close by.

French Riviera

Cote d'Azur, France

Money, glamour and bombshell looks: this beach-trimmed stretch of French coast offers decadent hotels, lounging in beach clubs, fine restaurants and world-class art.

Galapagos Islands

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

A visit here is a life-changing experience. You’ll see wildlife that exists nowhere else, from prehistoric-looking iguanas to penguins, blue-footed boobies, giant tortoises and sharks. Extraordinary wildlife encounters take place against a backdrop of ancient volcanoes, jagged lava rocks, cacti and beaches of powdery white.

Grand Canyon National Park

Arizona, United States of America (USA)

One of the world’s great natural wonders and unsurpassed geological phenomenon – a 277-mile long, 1-mile-deep gorge carved into the Arizona bedrock over billions of years by the Colorado River.

Greek Islands

Greek Islands, Greece

Sparkling seas, sugar-cube villages, cliff-hanging hamlets, ancient temples, delicious Mediterranean food and mesmerising sunsets – the Greek Islands offer so much. Just ask Shirley Valentine. See our recommended top islands to visit.

Sensual and sultry communist Caribbean capital, home to captivating, crumbling architecture, and enlivened by dance, music, avant-garde art and cocktails. Impossible to describe, there’s nowhere else quite like it.

Hawaii, United States of America (USA)

This idyllic archipelago is a lot more than a tropical paradise with azure waters and swaying palm trees. Dramatic scenery, volcanoes, seas filled with marine life make for an adventurer’s paradise; the aloha spirit and exuberant Polynesian culture make it uniquely unforgettable.

One of the world’s most extraordinary cities, where rippling mountains, a kaleidoscopic waterfront and futuristic architecture merge with fabulous food, sizzling nightlife and top shopping.

From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.

Iguazu Falls

Iguazu Falls, Brazil

Two National Parks – one in Brazil, one in Argentina – created to protect an astonishing 3km-wide waterfalls in a vast area of protected rainforest. One of the world’s great natural wonders.

India's Golden Triangle

India’s cultural essence combined with its most iconic sights and greatest bucket list experiences, all distilled into one compact, diverse and vibrant region. Includes stops in Jaipur , Delhi & Agra .

Marmara Region, Turkey

Exotic, inexhaustible and dynamic – East meets West head-on in this mesmerising city metropolis, famed for its extraordinarily rich history, superb food and shopping, and mind-blowingly magnificent, over-sized mosques.

A magical Middle Eastern mix of ancient sites, sublime scenery, enchanting eco-lodges, spas and superb diving. It’s most famously home to the lost city of Petra, and the salty waters of the enigmatic Dead Sea .

Krong Siem Reap

Northwestern Region, Cambodia

Cambodia’s second-largest but most visited city is home to the spectacular Khmer temple city of Angkor Wat and dozens of other dazzling ruins buried deep within the jungle. But it’s no tourist honeypot – it’s charming and wonderfully atmospheric too.

Kansai, Japan

Ancient temples and shrines, sublime cuisine, manicured gardens, colourful geishas and living history in spades – Kyoto is traditional Japan at its best.

Finnish Lapland, Finland

An unspoilt wilderness and outdoor adventure paradise. Summer and winter bucket list experiences galore – husky dog sledding, igloos and the Northern Lights – plus the real home of Santa.

Nevada, United States of America (USA)

The over-the-top, irrepressible entertainment capital of the world fizzes with thrilling casinos, dazzling shows, and vibrant nightlife. With world-class dining, luxury resorts and endless entertainment options, it’s a true playground for adults.

Lisbon Region, Portugal

One of Europe’s oldest capitals, Lisbon is also one of the most culturally charming, genuine and affordable. Go to wander its intimate winding lanes, listen to the fado, and ride the historic trams. Indulge on superb food, wine and shopping and exuberant nightlife.

Loire Valley

Loire Valley, France

Northern France’s beautiful UNESCO-listed valley, home to heart-stoppingly beautiful historic chateaux, authentic village life, world-class wines and fascinating troglodytes.

Greater London, United Kingdom (UK)

Centuries of compelling royal history, plus world-class culture, fashion, music and food, London stands head and shoulders above the rest for bucket list experiences. You’d need a month at least to do them all. If we had to pick out a few, don’t miss the Tower of London , Hampton Court , the Natural History Museum and the National Gallery.  

Los Angeles

California, United States of America (USA)

The bright lights of Tinseltown are home to surfer-filled beaches, glorious mountain hikes, glitz and glamour in spades, and year-round sunshine. And yes, dreams are still made in Hollywood.

This exotic island of curious creatures, vibrant cultures, and untamed landscapes offers an unforgettable journey off the beaten path. A biodiversity hotspot, it’s best known for its charismatic lemurs and soaring baobab trees, though sadly the magical rainforest is being cut down at an alarming rate.

Madrid Region, Spain

Spain’s sunny capital offers up world-class art, super shopping, renowned tapas and late, late nights. Top of the bill are the three world-class art museums in the so-called ‘Art Triangle’.

A dreamscape of sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, with a laid-back island culture. Peppered with luxurious resorts and indulgent spa retreats, it’s no wonder it’s a haven for romance – if you can’t afford the price tag.

Marrakech-Safi, Morocco

An exotic time capsule of ancient streets and souks, blending Arab culture and French colonial heritage. Soak it all up in the wonderfully evocative atmosphere of the Jemaa el-Fnaa .

Masai Mara & Serengeti

Take your pick from these two vast, adjoining reserves of reserve of game-filled savannah, home to the Big Five and of course the famous Great Wildebeest Migration .

Mayan Riviera

Talc-white beaches, reefs teeming with life, ruined temples in misty rainforests – the Riviera Maya offers a family or romantic beach holiday with a dash of Indian Jones adventure.

Miami's South Beach

Florida, United States of America (USA)

A 25-mile sliver of land just offshore from Miami that’s home to golden beaches, superb food & drink, and a feast of stunning Art Deco architecture  – all infused with a beguiling Cuban-inspired vibe. It’s also a great base for thrilling air boating & alligator spotting in the wilds of the Everglades .

Bavaria, Germany

This jewel box of splendid architecture has it all, from fascinating history to haute couture and world-class art, and a beguiling, endearing culture enriched by cavernous beer halls, traditional Bavarian garb and incomparable oompah bands. In October it hosts the world-famous, irrepressible and irresistible Oktoberfest .

Myanmar (formerly Burma)

This enchanting country, with its endearing but outrageously superstitious people, is a land like no other. Filled with timeless landscapes, soaring temples, and saffron-robed monks, it has a unique and rich culture that permeates every aspect of life that you can’t help but fall in love with.

Thrilling desert adventure and wondrously desolate coastlines meet game-rich reserves and quirky towns in this unique and atmospheric country that remains readily accessible yet pristine and crowd-free. Don’t miss safaris in Etosha and a visit to the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei .

Vibrant, gritty Naples is a captivating mix of history, culture, and gastronomy – it’s where pizza was invented after all. Home to the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, as well as the stunning Royal Palace of Naples.

New Orleans

Louisianan, United States of America (USA)

A sensory feast for the soul, incomparable New Orleans is a city of historic neighbourhoods adorned with colourful facades, culinary delights including the famous gumbo and beignets , and the intoxicating rhythms of jazz emanating from every street corner. The highlight is the annual Mardi Gras, held end of February – one for the bucket list.

New York City

New York, United States of America (USA)

The ‘city that never sleeps’ is a 24/7 thrill of soaring skyscrapers, jaw-dropping architecture, dynamic culture and world-class art, dining and performing arts scenes.

New Zealand's South Island

South Islands, New Zealand

A primordial playground with truly spectacular scenery on the grandest scale, outdoor adventure activities galore, colourful and compelling Maori culture and terribly nice Kiwis.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

There’s only one reason most people come to this Ontario city straddling the border of the United States and Canada, and that’s to see the remarkable, world-famous waterfall.  Just outside the city is the Niagara Wine region, home to world-class vineyards – another compelling reason to visit.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free

Okavango Delta

Okavango Delta, Botswana

The world’s largest inland delta, teeming with game, offers outstanding land and water-based mokoro safaris and world-class bird-watching. The place for a safari.

Ile-de-France, France

Crammed with iconic buildings, world-class art and a culinary scene steeped in history, Paris is one of the world’s great capitals, overflowing with style, romance, and  art de vivre. Highlights include the Eiffel Tower , of course, the incomparable Louvre and the magnificent Palace of Versailles .

Patagonia, Argentina

Covering the southern tip of South America, this is a land of untamed grandeur and awe-inspiring landscapes. Expect snow-capped peaks, shimmering glaciers, and windswept plains that stretch to the horizon. Hike through the legendary Torres del Paine, witness the thunderous Perito Moreno Glacier, or see it all on a cruise.

A land of spectacular deserts, high mountains and rainforests that teem with wildlife, Peru is also home to an array of dramatically situated pre-Colombian ruins, including Machu Picchu .

Port Douglas

Queensland, Australia

Swish, cosmopolitan and delightfully laid-back. Port Douglas is an ideal stepping-off point for snorkelling or diving on the Great Barrier Reef, trips to the Daintree Rainforest, and connecting with authentic indigenous culture.

The Czech capital is a city bold innovation in cuisine, the arts and sport, yet its winding old streets host Gothic spires, Renaissance castle halls and baroque facades speak to an eternal quality of art pervading everyday life. It’s especially known for classical music; Dvorak was from here, Mozart a frequent visitor.

Provence, France

Gorgeous landscapes peppered with beautiful villages, sunflowers and lavender, art-filled towns, lively cultural festivals and exquisite food and wine. Provence is everything you imagined it would be.

Rio de Janeiro

Southeastern Region, Brazil

Set around picturesque bays, surrounded by hills overflowing with rainforest, Rio is heaven for healthy hedonists. Hang glide, surf or hike by day, relax on the beach and party all night. Then, of course, there’s that carnival …

Lazio, Italy

The Eternal City – 2,000 extraordinary years of glory, greatness and triumph – and decadence, murder and destruction – evidenced by some of the world’s most iconic, must-see monuments and museums. Home, of course, to the world-famous Colosseum .

San Francisco

A beautiful bayside city with home-grown authenticity, charmingly unique neighbourhoods and excellent locally-driven food. Home to the magnificent red-ochre Golden Gate Bridg e and the world’s most infamous prison, Alcatraz .

San Sebastian

Basque Country, Spain

A grand but charming beach resort in northern Spain famous for its glut of Michelin-recognised restaurants and superb pintxos . This foodie destination is also a short hop from the world-class wines of La Rioja .

Scottish Highlands

Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom (UK)

Magnificent mountain scenery slashed by silvery lochs and peppered with brooding castles: all laden with rich Scottish heritage, history and tradition. Drive the NC500 road trip , or ride on the spectacular West Highland Line .

Sicily, Italy

The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily captivates visitors with its unique blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, picturesque beaches and traditional Italian culture. As you’d expect, the local cuisine is fresh and delicious, and the hospitality warm and welcoming.

This small island city-state in Southeast Asia is dynamic and cosmopolitan, yet known for its efficient infrastructure, diverse cultural heritage, and modern skyline. Home to the world’s best zoo and the astonishing man-made super trees .

This alluring, spiritual land of ancient temples, lush tea plantations, delicious aromatic cuisine and pristine beaches is tropical paradise meets cultural splendour – a delight for both cultural and adventure travellers. Highlights include the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and swimming with blue whales.

St Petersburg

Northwestern Region, Russia

On the shores of the Baltic, Russia’s dazzling cultural capital – and former home of its lavish Tsars – is a treasure trove of art, music, literature, and history. Home to one of the world’s greatest museums, the State Hermitage .

Uppland, Sweden

Stockholm never fails to charm with its unique mix of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication; from the historic cobblestone streets of Gamla Stan to the thriving art scene and world-class museums. Highlights include the ABBA Museum and boat and kayaking around the archipelago of over 30,000 islands.

New South Wales, Australia

One of the world’s most dynamic and glamorous cities, with golden beaches, world-class eating and dining and effervescent, friendly people. Home to the eye-popping Opera House and the indescribable Sydney Bridge Climb .

This effusive, vibrant city, overflowing with incredible food & drink, and lined by golden beaches, is Israel’s pulsating heart. It’s also the gateway to some special, unique experiences – history-laden, tumultuous Jerusalem, the Dead Sea and Masaba.

Amazon, Peru

Earth’s largest and most spectacular tropical wilderness is a landscape of huge waterfalls tumbling off table-top mountains, vast, coloured rivers, and fragrant cloud forests. All filled with astonishing, endemic wildlife.

Kanto, Japan

A dizzying mixture of old ways and modern style, crowds and calm, and arguably the best food scene on the planet. Cross the Shibuya Crossing, and ride the Bullet Train .

Turkey's Turquoise Coast

Turquoise Coast, Turkey

Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise Coast offers an unbeatable mix of mountain-backed beaches, classical ruins and adventure activities, with superb food and delightful owner-run hotels.

The astonishingly beautiful region of Tuscany has it all: art cities and ancient hill towns, high mountains and long sandy beaches, alongside luxurious hotels and some of Italy’s best food and wine.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Northern Territory, Australia

The place to come for the Australian outback experience – jaw-dropping geological formations (including world-famous Uluru), sleeping out in swag bags, sampling bush tucker, and connecting with authentic Aborginal culture.

Veneto, Italy

Crammed with picturesque canals, Renaissance  palazzos and artistic masterpieces, this unique and alluring city is heaven-on-earth for art lovers and romantics.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

The mesmerising Falls are the star attraction, but Africa’s adventure playground also offers a mind-boggling menu of safari experiences and adrenalin-packed adventure activities. Would you dare to raft the mighty Zambezi ?

This uber-romantic city of former imperial splendour – headlined by the magnificent Schonbrunn Grand Palace – is an architectural marvel oozing a rich cultural heritage. It’s a mecca for fine arts, classical music and world-class opera.

From the emerald paddy fields of the Mekong Delta to the mystical limestone karsts of Halong Bay, this endlessly interesting, utterly enchanting country invites you to explore its breathtaking landscapes, savour the world’s tastiest street food, and immerse in its poignant history. A captivating blend of ancient traditions, warm hospitality, and rich culture.

Washington DC

Washington DC, United States of America (USA)

The heartland of American democracy and political power is a city that echoes with historical significance and impresses with landmarks. The venerable White House, Capitol and National Archives Museum – home of The Constitution – are here, alongside the 21 world-class museums of the Smithsonian.

Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China

China’s ancient capital is a time capsule of imperial grandeur and cultural marvels, with vibrant markets, narrow alleys, majestic city walls, a vibrant Muslim Quarter, and the iconic Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. Most visitors, however, land here for just one thing – the mighty Terracotta Warriors – one of the world’s all-time must-sees.

Best for ages: 8+ | £17

Yellowstone National Park

Wyoming, United States of America (USA)

Nestled in the heart of America’s untamed wilderness lies this gasp-worthy landscape of geothermal wonders, thunderous cascades of waterfalls and pristine forests. The star attraction is Old Faithful, but the US’s top national park is a trove of natural treasures.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

The exotic ‘Spice Island’ is home to a beguiling mix of Swahili, Persian, Omani and African cultures, in a setting of dreamy postcard-perfect white sand beaches. Oh, and there’s pristine, world-class diving and snorkelling too.

Frequently asked questions

What is a bucket list.

A bucket list is a collection of goals, dreams, and aspirations that you hope to achieve or experience before you die. It often includes travel destinations, personal milestones, and unique experiences.

Why is it called bucket list?

The term ‘bucket list’ is derived from the phrase ‘kick the bucket’, which is an English expression for dying. The idea is that a ‘bucket list’ is a compilation of things someone wants to do, see, or achieve before they die. The concept was popularized by the 2007 film The Bucket List , where two terminally ill men set out to do a list of things before they pass away.

What is a bucket list trip?

A bucket list trip refers to a journey that you consider a high priority to undertake and accomplish in your lifetime. This trip is often considered a dream vacation/holiday or adventure, incorporating multiple destinations or activities that hold significant personal meaning to you, or represent a long-held aspiration.

What is a travel bucket list?

A travel bucket list is a list of destinations and experiences you dream of visiting and accomplishing in your lifetime. It will include places around the world and activities unique to those destinations, reflecting your own unique personal desires for adventure, cultural immersion, and world exploration.

What are the most popular things to do on travel bucket lists?

We recently ran a survey of 2,000 Brits and asked them. Top of the list was seeing the Northern Lights , followed by a US road trip, a safari in Africa , a visit to the Great Barrier Reef , cruising Norway’s fjords and Niagara Falls .

Sixty Years Later, Wilt’s 100 Stands Unchallenged

Sixty years ago, Wilt Chamberlain of the Philadelphia Warriors scored 100 points in a regular-season game against the New York Knicks, the greatest single-game record in the history of not just the NBA, but in any of the major professional sports leagues in North America.

As former NFL coach Bill Parcells would say, “And it’s not close for second.” This is the story of that stunning achievement.

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a community of about 15,000 people, squeezed into the eastern part of the state, some 100 miles west of Philadelphia and 15 miles east of Harrisburg – the state capital. To some, it’s still regarded as the Chocolate Capital of the World (though Brussels and Switzerland would like a word). It’s the home to Hersheypark, an expansive theme attraction that features more roller coasters than you have fingers and more water rides than you have toes. And if you like sports, there’s the Hershey Bears hockey team, playing continuously in the American Hockey League since 1938.

Hershey is close enough to Philadelphia that in the sleepy early years of the NBA, the Warriors, one of the original franchises in the league that began as the Basketball Association of America in 1946, occasionally played regular-season games at what was known as the Hershey Sports Arena, then the home of the Bears hockey team.

Indeed, in each of the Warriors’ last four seasons representing The City Of Brotherly Love before moving to San Francisco, there were multiple Warriors games played at the “neutral site” of Hershey. There was even an established regularity of sorts to those visits – one during the week after Christmas, and one on the first Friday of March. (Such regularity was enabled by the fact that in those years, the NBA schedule was constructed by none other than Warriors owner Eddie Gottlieb, who was born in 1898 in Kyiv.)

And so it happened that on Friday, March 2, 1962, the Warriors made what turned out to be their final visit to Hershey. In fact, it turned out to be the last regular-season game that the Philadelphia Warriors played in the state of Pennsylvania. It was No. 76 of an 80-game season; the team would finish that season playing its last four regular-season games on the road. (Hershey had a brief resurgence as a host to NBA games in the early 70s, when the 76ers played a few games there for three seasons. The Syracuse Nationals franchise had moved to Philadelphia in 1963, adopting a new team name, to fill the void left by the Warriors’ move west.)

The Warriors were led in that 1961-62 season by Chamberlain, then in his third season in the NBA. The native Philadelphian had starred at Overbrook High School, and Gottlieb secured his rights through the league’s “territorial draft” rule that gave teams the right to draft a player who had starred locally in high school or college.

At 7-foot-1, Wilt had electrified the league like no player before or since when he arrived after having played at the University of Kansas and one year with the Harlem Globetrotters. No athlete in a team sport has ever brought the package of size, strength and speed into a league that the young Chamberlain delivered to the NBA in 1959.

Yes, speed. It’s a shame that most of the surviving video of Wilt playing in the NBA comes from the late stages of his career with the Lakers. At that point, he relied mostly on strength and smarts, but his play appears slow, flat-footed and mechanical. The young Wilt was a top-rate athlete in every sense of the word and had the ability to run the floor on the break as if he were a foot shorter.

Chamberlain set NBA single-season scoring records of 2,707 points and 37.6 points per game as a rookie, and then surpassed each mark in his second season (3,033 points, 38.4 per game) after the NBA had expanded its schedule from 72 to 79 games. (After one season at 79, the schedule would tick up to 80 games.)

Despite those astounding totals, however, and in a sign of things to come, Wilt’s Warriors failed to reach the NBA Finals, losing to Bill Russell’s Boston Celtics in the 1960 Eastern finals and then falling to Syracuse the next year. (Over their careers, Chamberlain’s teams would oppose Russell’s Celtics in eight playoff series – all best of sevens in either the Eastern finals or the NBA Finals. Boston won seven of those eight series, four of which extended to a seventh game. Among those Game 7 losses that Wilt’s teams endured, two came by the margin of two points and one by a margin of a single point.)

After that disappointment, the Warriors changed their coach. (The term “head coach” was not yet necessary; with the Warriors, like most other NBA teams in an era of frugality, there were no assistant coaches.) Gottlieb replaced former Warriors player Neil Johnston with Frank McGuire, a successful college coach at St. John’s and North Carolina, and whose Tar Heels had nipped Chamberlain’s Jayhawks 54-53 in a triple-overtime championship game of the 1957 NCAA Tournament.

McGuire and Chamberlain hit it off, with the new coach intent on getting the absolute maximum out of his all-too-willing star. (Alvin Attles, a starting guard on that Warriors team, later said that he learned that Wilt and McGuire had made a “pact” that Wilt would average 50 points that season.) Not content with the production that Wilt had achieved under Johnston, McGuire determined to increase it, starting with playing time.

But wait…Hadn’t Wilt averaged 46.4 and 47.8 minutes over his first two seasons? True, but that was still not enough. As hard as this is to believe, during the 80-game 1961-62 season (and in the team’s 12 playoff games) in which Wilt started every game, McGuire never removed him from the court. You read that correctly. Wilt played every minute in 79 of the Warriors’ 80 games, failing to complete only the Jan. 3 game at Los Angeles, when referee Norm Drucker removed Wilt from the floor by ejecting him with 8:33 left in the game.

That season, Wilt played every moment of games that Philadelphia won by final margins of 32, 37 and 43 points, just as he played every moment of games that his team lost by margins of 25, 41 and 51 points. Factoring in overtime games, Wilt played 48.5 minutes per game that season.    

Today’s NBA schedule is often described as grueling. In the current 2021-22 season, each team plays 82 games over a period of 174 days, extending from Oct. 19 to April 10. Sixty seasons ago, when each team played 80 games, the schedule also began on Oct. 19. But it concluded on March 14, meaning that those 80 games were crammed into 147 days! Think about that: Picture the hurly-burly of today’s NBA schedule, take away two games, and compress it into 27 fewer days. Now factor in the difference between the early 1960s and today in terms of air travel, comfort, and health and safety issues.

The 1961-62 Warriors played eight sequences of three games in three nights, had two other sequences of four in four nights, and another of five in five nights. The five-in-five-nights streak came in the middle of January: a Wednesday game against the St. Louis Hawks played as part of an all-NBA doubleheader in Detroit, back home on Thursday to host the Cincinnati Royals, a Friday night contest against the Detroit Pistons in Boston (part of another doubleheader), back home to meet the Pistons again on Saturday, and then a Sunday game against the Syracuse Nationals played in Utica, N.Y. (The Warriors went 4-1 over that stretch, with two of the games going into overtime. Wilt’s tally in those games? He scored 62, 54, 53, 44 and 62 points. A total of 275 points over 250 minutes, spread over five consecutive nights encompassing four nights of travel. Now that’s grueling.)

To say that literally every Warriors possession ran through Wilt would be an overstatement, but not a major one. In that era, the NBA ranked its individual scoring leaders on the basis of total points, rather than points per game. Wilt had been the first NBA player to reach the 2,500-point mark, doing it as a rookie. In his second season, he became the league’s first 3,000-point scorer. Now, he set his sights even higher. In the fall of 1961, he scored 496 points over his first 10 games of the season, exceeding 50 points in six of those games.

Playing all 63 minutes (of course) in a triple-overtime loss to the Lakers on Dec. 8, Wilt produced an NBA single-game record of 78 points, breaking the mark of 71 points established by the Lakers’ Elgin Baylor 13 months earlier. (By the way, Baylor scored 63 and teammate Jerry West 32 in that triple-overtime game, while none of Wilt’s teammates scored as many as 20.) On Jan. 13 against the Chicago Packers, a first-year expansion team that would eventually answer to the name of Washington Wizards, Wilt poured in 73 points, breaking Baylor’s record for a regulation-length game.

By the end of that month, the math had worked out to near perfection: With 70% of the season played, 56 games down and 24 to go, Wilt had scored 2,801 points – an average of 50.018 points per game and on pace for a 4,000-point season.

Chamberlain held serve during February – 19 games, 962 points, 50.6 per game. Entering March, he needed 237 points over the season’s last five games to concurrently reach 4,000 for the season and achieve a 50-point average. But those five remaining games did contain one potential problem: game No. 78, on March 7 at Boston. Led by superstar center Bill Russell, the Celtics had always been Wilt’s toughest opponent. Even in this season of 50-point nights, Chamberlain wound up averaging a mere 41.7 points in 12 games against the Celtics, compared with 51.9 per game against the rest of the league. In addition, Wilt had been held below 30 points in just two games all season, both against the Celtics (28 on Nov. 3, and 26 in their most recent meeting, on Feb. 24). To reach 4,000 points, Wilt might need as much of a pad as he could muster with that Celtics game looming.

All of this came to a head on March 2 in Hershey. That night’s opponents: the lowly New York Knicks, playing out the string en route to a 29-51 season. The Knicks actually had some good players, notably guard Richie Guerin and forward Willie Naulls, but they did not have a strong center. In addition, their usual starter at the position, veteran Phil Jordon, was ill and unable to even make the game. His backup was Darrall Imhoff, listed at 6-10 and 220 pounds, but in no way a physical match for Chamberlain. So we had a determined superstar aiming at a 4,000-point season, a coach who encouraged that process, and a weak opponent further diminished by the absence of its regular center. The stage was set.

The Warriors held a 42-26 lead after the first quarter, and Chamberlain had gotten off to an impressive start. Over those 12 minutes he scored 23 points, including 9-of-9 shooting from the foul line. Wilt was a terrible free-throw shooter who finished his 14-year career having hit just 51.1% from the line. But he was a bit better than that during the 1961-62 season after adopting a McGuire suggestion to shoot his free throws underhanded, as a handful of NBA players still did. Wilt made 61.3% of his free throws that season, the only one of his 14 seasons in which he reached 60%.

I mhoff, meanwhile, finished the opening quarter with three personal fouls. Knicks coach Eddie Donovan showed him a seat on the bench, and in his place came rookie Cleveland Buckner, listed at 6-9 and 210 pounds, and even a less physical presence than Imhoff. In one respect, the game mirrored the teams’ last meeting five days earlier in Philadelphia when Jordon was ejected early in the third quarter and Imhoff, his replacement, fouled out later in that quarter. Buckner was the next man up, but New York held a 19-point lead entering the final quarter. Chamberlain had an NBA-record 28 points in that quarter, but the Knicks prevailed 149-135.

The crowd of 4,124 fans in Hershey saw Wilt continue to pile up the points in the second quarter. It was only in retrospect, after the 100-point game was in the books, that it could be said that Wilt added “only” 18 points in the second quarter. At halftime, the score stood Warriors 79, Knicks 68, Wilt 41. He had hit 14 of 26 shots from the floor, and, remarkably, 13 of 14 from the foul line.

In the third quarter, as the Warriors began pulling away, Wilt drew closer and closer to his own NBA single-game record of 78 points. During that period, The Big Dipper hit 10 of 16 from the floor and an absolutely astounding 8 of 8 on free throws. His total of 28 points in a quarter tied the record he had set against the Knicks five days earlier. That gave him 69 points with 12 minutes to go. History beckoned.

Of course, Wilt wasn’t exactly scoring all those points by himself. Throughout the game, teammates intrigued by the circumstances talked openly about feeding “the big guy” even more than usual to see how many points he could amass. The result of the game meant nothing in the standings. Philadelphia was locked into a second-place finish to Boston in the four-team Eastern Division, while the Knicks would finish last.

The Warriors took a 19-point lead into the fourth quarter, but by then, every fan was focused on how high Wilt would go. There were no high-tech scoreboards with visual displays of Wilt’s totals, but Warriors public-address announcer Dave Zinkoff, whose booming voice would keep fans from dozing off for decades, had made the trip west from Philadelphia to Hershey. In the old, cold barn that was the Hershey Sports Arena, Zinkoff now thundered out Chamberlain’s running point total with every basket and free throw made.

Neither team televised the game, which was not unusual for the NBA in the early 1960s. It was broadcast on radio over Philadelphia station WCAU, with Bill Campbell on the call. Some years back, a recording of the fourth quarter of the game emerged on the internet. Campbell’s dramatic call still lives on YouTube and a listener can clearly hear Zink’s pronouncements to the crowd.

In the fourth quarter, NBA records were tied and surpassed in a dizzying parade of numbers. First, just 95 seconds in, The Big Fella tied his own mark of 73 points in a regulation-length game. Within moments he passed that mark, and then became the first player ever to reach 80. Blink, and he was up to 90.

The Knicks, recognizing what was going on, were increasingly ticked off. By the fourth quarter, they tried to stall on offense; the Warriors responded by fouling them to stop the clock and get the ball back for Wilt.  Somewhere along the way, WCAU’s Campbell advised his audience to call their friends to alert them to history in the making. At the end, Wilt was on the floor with Guy Rodgers, an outstanding point guard who was, like Wilt, a native Philadelphian, and is now enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame. Along with them were three players from the deep end of the bench – rookies Ted Luckenbill and York Larese, and Wilt’s nominal backup, Joe Ruklick.

With just under two minutes left, Wilt had reached 96. The Knicks had the ball and Luckenbill fouled Naulls, who made two foul shots. Wilt then reached 98 on a dunk off a pass from Larese, stole the in-bounds pass himself, and missed on his first attempt at 100. New York rebounded and passed the ball around until with 61 seconds left, Guerin, the Knicks star who was an ex-Marine and by now was fed up, was fouled by Luckenbill and then got into a yelling match with Ruklick. After Guerin’s free throws, the Warriors got the ball back, and we’ll let Campbell take it from here:

“Now let’s see if they foul somebody quick. Rodgers throws long to Chamberlain. He’s got it, he’s trying to get up, he shoots. No good. Rebound, Luckenbill. Back to Chamberlain. Shoots, up, no good, in and out. The rebound, Luckenbill. Back to Ruklick. In to Chamberlain. He made it! He made it! He made it! A Dipper dunk! He made it! The fans are all over the floor! They’ve stopped the game! People are running out onto the court. One hundred points for Wilt Chamberlain.”

Wilt’s final basket came with 46 seconds left. The floor was cleared, the Knicks added a field goal and two free throws, and it was over. The Warriors’ victory went into the books with a score of 169-147, setting a record at the time for the most combined points in an NBA game . But as Campbell went off the air, he gave the final score as 169-150. To this day, it’s unclear which Knicks total is accurate.

That the game was played in a small arena in a small community, at a time when an NBA game was a far less lustrous attraction than today, that it was not televised, that there is confusion about the final score, and that there exists an ongoing debate over what happened to the game ball – all of that adds to the cloak of mystery and legend. No video of the game has ever emerged. There are some still photographs of Wilt in action primarily shot by Associated Press photographer Paul Vathis, who also took the iconic post-game photo of Wilt in the locker room, holding up a piece of paper with “100” written on it.

What is known is that Wilt scored 100 points, making 36 of 63 field-goal attempts and 28 of 32 free-throw attempts. He set NBA records for points in a game, a half and a quarter, as well as subordinate records for field goals, field-goal attempts and, yes, free throws made. (The record for points in a quarter now belongs to Klay Thompson, who had 37 in a quarter in 2015. The record for free throws made was tied by Adrian Dantley in 1984.)

No player has ever seriously threatened Wilt’s exclusive membership in the 100 Points In A Game Club. There have been only 10 other games in NBA history in which a player reached 70 points. Wilt had five of those games (his 78- and 73-point games earlier in the 1961-62 season, and games of 73, 72 and 70 points the following season. The others were produced by Baylor (71 in 1960), David Thompson (73 in 1978), David Robinson (71 in 1994), Kobe Bryant (81 in 2006) and Devin Booker (70 in 2017).

Of course, the NBA introduced the 3-point field goal in 1979. Robinson made one in his big game; Bryant hit seven and Booker four in theirs.

Wilt played 11 more seasons in the NBA, 14 in all. He played for the Warriors in Philadelphia and San Francisco, before, in January 1965, he was traded back to Philadelphia, where the transplanted Syracuse team had become the 76ers. Then he was dealt again, to the Los Angeles Lakers, in the summer of 1968, finishing his career with five seasons there. His resume includes two championships (1967 with the 76ers, 1972 with the Lakers), 13 All-Star selections (all but the 1969-70 season, which he missed nearly entirely due to a severe knee injury), four regular-season MVP awards, one Finals MVP, and one All-Star Game MVP.

He led the league in scoring seven times (each of his first seven seasons), in shooting accuracy nine times, in rebounding 11 times, and in assists once (the only center in NBA history to do so). He led in minutes played eight times, but appeared in 1,045 regular-season games and 160 in the playoffs without ever fouling out. Of course, he was a first-ballot Hall of Famer. His No. 13 was retired by each of the three franchises for which he played.

And yet, there was a sadness. Nothing he did ever seemed good enough. It was said that it’s easy to root against Golaith, but it was more than that. Wilt’s greatest accomplishments, even his 100-point game, were blithely dismissed by his critics as being the product of his height – and that alone.

Certainly his height was a factor in his success, but more remarkable was the breadth of athleticism contained therein, and perhaps more critically, the will to put that athleticism to extreme tests. He was a Superman walking among us, who did things no one before him or since has done. And the world shrugged.

That is, until Oct. 12, 1999, when the news came that Wilt had died at age 63. Death is the most ordinary of things that comes to every man, but the death of this Superman was what ultimately shocked us all.

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David Pastrnak, on the cusp of 100 points, is a triple-digit threat the Bruins haven’t had in a long time

For the most part, the Bruins offense stayed stuck in the mud in Thursday’s 5-2 loss to the Rangers at the Garden, which also left David Pastrnak stuck at 99 points with 11 games remaining in the regular season.

If things go as they typically do when Pastrnak stares down that Flyers’ “flying P” logo, he’ll top off the tank at 100 or more Saturday afternoon when the Bruins visit the south end of Broad Street.

Philadelphia is where the rookie Pastrnak, then 18½ years old, scored his first two NHL goals on Jan. 10, 2015 . Some 10 years later, in 30 regular-season games, he has piled up 26 goals and 43 points against the Flyers. The kind of numbers that might cause the Philly PD to identify him as a public health and safety risk when the Bruins’ charter touches down Friday afternoon.

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On the verge of being the first Bruin since Adam Oates (1992-94) to put together back-to-back 100-point seasons, Pastrnak on Thursday posted a rare 0-0—0 (four shots) on home ice. He also finished minus-3. Not a good night for the All-Star right winger.

But then, it wasn’t a good night for anyone on Causeway Street who wasn’t wearing a Broadway Blueshirt.

“We should be able to gain middle ice a lot,” noted coach Jim Montgomery, dismissing the suggestion that some of his players looked tired on what was clearly a dud of a night. “We just weren’t attacking it.”

The Rangers weren’t barreling up and down the ice either. They were helped immensely by Bruins defensive gaffes on their first two goals, both scored by Artemi Panarin. The Russian-born left winger finished with a hat trick, boosting his point total to 97 — right there on Pastrnak’s heels.

Unlike Pastrnak, the clever forward, one of the game’s skilled wizards, never has finished with 100 points in a season. Which only adds some context to what Pastrnak has been able to do.

“I think they are similar in a lot of ways,” offered Montgomery. “I think Pasta is more of a shot-first guy and Panarin is more of a pass-first guy. I think that’s the biggest difference. But they both drive offense for their respective teams. As wingers, they have the puck a lot, almost like a center does.”

Once he reaches the mark, Pastrnak will be the first winger in Black and Gold history to pair up 100-point seasons. The slick-passing Oates was a center, as was Barry Pederson, who notched 107 points in 1982-83 and followed with 116. Popular wingers Ken Hodge and Rick Middleton each had a pair of 100-point seasons here, but not consecutively.

Pastrnak has 663 points dating to the start of 2016-17, when he first played the bulk of an NHL season. In those seven-plus seasons, entering Friday, he is tied for second in goals (320) with Alex Ovechkin and Leon Draisaitl, behind only Toronto’s Auston Matthews (356). Pastrnak’s 663 points ranked No. 6, a notch below Panarin, who reached 681 with the hat trick.

In the 30 years that have passed since Oates paired up his 142-point and 112-point seasons, Joe Thornton and Brad Marchand are the only Bruins other than Pastrnak to reach 100 — one time each. Joe Juneau had a 102-point season in 1992-93, the same season as Oates’s 142, back when they and Dmitri “Hoss” Kvartalnov comprised the high-riding Bonanza Line.

Leaguewide Nikita Kucherov (118), Nathan MacKinnon (117), and Connor McDavid (112) beat Pastrnak to the 100 circle this season. All three reached the mark last year, too. In fact, the incomparable McDavid has done it four seasons in a row, approaching the rarefied air we knew around here — and perhaps didn’t appreciate enough? — with Phil Esposito (five straight) and Bobby Orr (six).

Oates joined an esteemed group of forwards, including Doug Gilmour, Pavel Bure, Jeremy Roenick, and Mark Recchi, to go back-to-back in the two seasons he did. Pederson, dealt to Vancouver two seasons after his last 100-point season, was joined by six others — some of the greatest names in NHL history — who reached 100 with him.

Wayne Gretzky, Michel Goulet, Peter Stastny, Mike Bossy, Jari Kurri, and Mark Messier. Pederson is the only one not to have his likeness etched on a glass plaque in the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Pastrnak, who finished last season with 61-52—113, is only 27 years old — five years Panarin’s junior, by the way — and looks destined for a spot of his own in the Hall. No one in the last two years has equaled his 105 goals.

Now it’s on to the Wells Fargo Center, Pastrnak’s home away from home — and away from home once more if we’re counting the village of Havirov, Czechia. The goals and points just keep coming, like they haven’t around here for a very long time.

Kevin Paul Dupont can be reached at [email protected] .

Travelers aim to visit their 100th country, circumnavigate the globe in 2022

Have you been around the world? Visited more than 100 countries? Then congratulations: You're part of an exclusive travel club.

Ron Levin has done both. As a frequent air traveler, he spent years crisscrossing the globe, living in Madrid, London, Amsterdam and Barcelona before returning to the U.S. to work for a venture capital firm in Boston.

"I have had the travel bug for as long as I can remember," says Levin, 43. "I reached the 100-country mark when I was in my early 30s."

Norman Dailey is also a member, with more than 212 countries and 4 circumnavigations. It took 10 years to reach 100 and another 10 to reach 200. Among his favorite adventures: touring Lalibela churches in Ethiopia , ordering a beer at the highest pub in the world in Lesotho and swimming in Zambia's Devil's Pool . 

"You go to places you would never think of," says Dailey, a retired government worker from Alexandria, Virginia.

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What are the century and circumnavigator trophies? 

These achievements – visiting 100 countries and traveling around the world – are the ultimate bragging rights for aspiring jet setters. Now, with the coronavirus pandemic finally starting to fade, people are thinking about their next trip – and they're thinking big.

By the way, there are actual clubs for people who have met these milestones. The Travelers' Century Club is for people who have visited 100 or more countries or territories. And the Circumnavigators Club is for travelers who have gone around the world.

But for most travelers, this isn't about becoming a member of a formal organization; it's about joining a fraternity of dedicated travelers. 

► Latest CDC travel advisories:   Health agency says travelers should avoid Italy, Greenland, Mauritius

Melissa Smith has watched the rosters of these exclusive travel clubs swell in recent years, and she believes more growth lies ahead. From her vantage point as a matchmaker for virtual assistants and as a world traveler herself, she has seen more Americans loosen the shackles of 9-to-5 jobs and head out into the world, with no definite plans to return. 

Smith says these newly minted global nomads need help, which has led to record demand for her services.

"For the first time we have a waiting list for placing virtual assistants," she says. "These are popular clubs." 

Are you century club material?

Visiting 100 countries is the most popular achievement among travelers. The reason: You can take your time getting to the century mark instead of trying to make it around the world in one stretch. 

Fred Cosentino, a retired psychologist from Berkeley, California, began tracking his countries when he started traveling in 1985.  He and his wife have reached 127 countries and territories, from the remote Faroe Islands in the North Atlantic to Antarctica. 

"We love visiting new places, meeting the people, enjoying the culture, food and local sites," he says. 

That pretty much sums up why people try to reach the 100-country mark. They do it because they enjoy traveling – and because they can.

Silvana Frappier is not only working toward her club membership, but as the owner of a luxury travel agency , she helps others do it. She says that to reach the century mark, you need to set goals and be flexible. 

"You need to have a plan A, B and C – and be ready to change plans," she says. "Because plans will change." 

How to travel around the world

To qualify for the circumnavigator designation, you have to cross all the meridians of longitude in one direction. In other words, no backtracking and finishing the trip later.

Ross Copas, an industrial electrician from Tweed, Canada, has been around the world four times with his wife, Jean. Their first was an around-the-world cruise he booked in 2007.

 "We used that as a buffet – tasted a little bit of many places and decided which ones we would like to return to." And he did return, traveling by motorcycle through North America, Europe, New Zealand, South America and India. That was followed by yet another world cruise to discover new ports. 

"That led to more new countries and more new opportunities," he says.

Jenny Brocious, an event planner from Atlanta, has circumnavigated the world 10 times. She says traveling around the world is surprisingly affordable – an around-the-world airline ticket costs about $2,000 – and she recommends it for almost anyone who has a sense of adventure.

"You can do a trip around the world on almost any budget," she says.

Another misconception: You don't have to sell everything you own and spend a year traveling. Brocious has made around-the-world trips in as little as two weeks. It's a hectic two weeks, but it's possible. You can spend only a few days, and sometimes a few hours, on the ground before moving on.

► Europe travel restrictions:   How to enjoy your trip and avoid the headaches

Should you join these clubs?

Reaching the 100-country mark or circling the globe isn't for everyone. For many travelers, it takes years to reach the country goal. And for others, it's too much time and money. But I have yet to find someone who regrets doing it. 

When I started researching this story, I downloaded the list of countries and territories from the Travelers Century Club site to determine how many countries I'd visited. I hadn't formally tracked them in my three decades as a travel writer. Let's just say I fell short of the 100-country mark – embarrassingly short.

I'm about to remedy that. This month, I embark on a project that will take me around the world and to more than 100 countries. The world is starting to reopen after almost two long years of COVID-19, and there's only one way to write about it: I have to be there. 

But really, you don't need a reason to embark on one of these adventures. Just go.

How to get to 100 countries

Find a pro. A travel adviser knows how to plan and execute a complicated itinerary. You can find one at the American Society of Travel Advisors site. "Everyone knows that something can and will always go wrong during travel," says Tracy Schatz, owner of Elite Travel Journeys . "It's nice to know that someone is there to help them when a little – or big – glitch affects their plans."

Get a second passport. If you have two American passports, a visa agency can process your application while you travel. "That way, waiting for your visa doesn't hinder your travel," says Janice Lintz, an around-the-world traveler. The State Department site has more information on how to get a second passport .

Take a shortcut. If patience is not your thing, don't worry. There's a faster way to join the club. A 14-day Caribbean cruise can take you to six countries; a world cruise can get you past the 30-country mark.  Steve Kuriga, a travel adviser with Cadence Travel in La Jolla, California, says his clients use an app like Been to record the countries they've visited. "Once they start tracking the countries, they are surprised at how many they have already visited."

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Earning rewards points is very easy, simply  download our app  and agree to participate in MyMcDonald’s Rewards. Present the 4-digit code before ordering, or get points automatically when you order in the app.

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For every dollar you spend on eligible products, you will receive 100 points. You can start redeeming your MyMcDonald's Rewards when you have 1500 points.

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How Do I Redeem Points for Free McDonald’s?

You can redeem with contactless mobile ordering in the McDonald's app by selecting Rewards, choosing the favorite you want to redeem and choosing “Add to Mobile Order”. To redeem in store or Drive Thru, select rewards and choose the item you want to redeem, then choose “Use at Restaurant” to get the 4-digit code you can provide the crew before you start ordering. For delivery orders placed using the McDonald’s app, select your reward item and add that to your McDelivery order. Rewards cannot be redeemed for delivery orders placed with a third party operator such as DoorDash and Uber Eats.

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Do I have to Provide Two Codes If I Want to Redeem a Reward or Deal and Earn Points in the Same Transaction?

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Customers are given the choice to opt in to the program when they set up a MyMcDonald’s account. If you are a current user of MyMcDonald’s Rewards & Deals and want to opt out, here are the steps using the app:

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If you are a current user of MyMcDonald’s Rewards and want to opt out, here are the steps using the app:

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Where Can I Find the Receipt Information?

For the restaurant number, look for the series of numbers where it reads “McDonald’s Restaurant #XXXX” above the address near the middle of your receipt—this is different from the order number. Moving down on the receipt, you’ll find your visit date and visit time on the right side and the order number directly below (it’ll always be two digits). Lastly, find “Take-Out Total” for your order total.

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The Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things To Do Before You Die

The world is full of wonder and if you’re anything like me, you want to go out and explore! Check out my ultimate travel bucket list – 100 unmissable places to visit before you die. How many can you tick off?

By Julianna Barnaby and Sophie Ritchie

There are so many incredible places to see on this planet… but sometimes a bit of extra inspiration doesn’t hurt.

From incredible landscapes that make your eyes pop and your jaws drop, to incredible architecture – here is the ultimate travel bucket list. 100 places to see before you die.

After all, nothing says it better than this cool travel quote from Ray Bradbury.

“Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.”

The Ultimate Travel Bucket List

1. grand canyon, usa.

They don’t call it Grand for nothing. The Grand Canyon is a huge, steep canyon, located in Arizona , carved by the Colorado River.

Let’s talk measurements for a second so you can get an idea of the scale of this natural wonder. 446km long and 29km wide.

I’m guessing that it’s already on your list of things to see before you die. If you’re up for the challenge, you can go and hike the whole thing … or simply see the scale of its beauty from one of the many lookouts.

These are especially beautiful to watch the sunrise and sunset from, so make sure you check the times before you go!

2. See The Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are one of nature’s most incredible wonders.

A series of dancing lights that charge the night sky in pinks, greens, yellows and purples – seeing the Aurora Borealis is the ultimate travel bucket list item.

Cool northern lights-spotting destinations include Iceland , Norway , Alaska and northern Canada.

How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

3. Giant’s Causeway, United Kingdom

he Giant’s Causeway is a stone formation made up of 40,000 basalt columns, located just off the coast of Antrim in Northern Ireland.

While scientists say that the formations were the result of a volcanic eruption, legend has it that the columns were a causeway built by a giant so that Scottish and Irish giants could meet and fight. I’m going to go with the latter – much more believable.

4. Bryce Canyon, USA

One of the US’s best-known national parks, Bryce Canyon is a collection of giant natural amphitheatres in southern Utah and one of the most beautiful natural landmarks I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. 

Designated a National Park in 1928, Bryce Canyon now receives nearly 2.5 million annual visitors to marvel at its red, orange and white rock formations.

5. Antelope Canyon, USA

Walking through the weird curved formations of Antelope Canyon , it’s difficult to believe that it’s not man made.

It’s not. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon, located in Page, Arizona. Formed by the erosion of sandstone from the flash floods that occur in the area, it’s a must for any avid traveller. 

Photographers come from far and wide to get a glimpse of this beautiful orange, red and yellow canyon and the magical light filtered through the canyon’s shaped walls.

6. Reynisdrangar Basalt Columns, Iceland

The striking Reynisdrangar basalt columns on the world-famous Reynisfjara black sand beach are one of Iceland’s most impressive natural wonders (they have tough competition).

The columns were formed by volcanic activity – the same kind that created the Giant’s Causeway mentioned above.

Legend has it that they are three trolls, frozen in time by the sun’s rays. Sound familiar? That’s because Tolkien used the legend in his world-famous story The Hobbit.

7. Yosemite National Park, USA

Yosemite National Park is just incredible. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the northeast of California it’s well-known as one of America’s most beautiful travel destinations.

Want to know where to travel before you die? Start with Yosemite.

Granite cliffs, clear streams, waterfalls, mountains and glaciers – it’s no wonder that the famous photographer Ansel Adams loved it – and I bet you will too.

8. The Dead Sea, Israel / West Bank / Jordan

We all know that you can float on The Dead Sea. This curious natural wonder is 9.6 times saltier than the ocean. It’s not actually a sea, despite its name, it’s a lake on the borders of Israel, the West Bank and Jordan .

The banks of the Dead Sea are over 400m below sea level, making them the lowest point in the world on dry land.

The easiest way to visit The Dead Sea is by taking a short-ish bus journey from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem, alternatively you can rent a car and drive, though booking onto a tour makes things even easier.

9. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay is no secret. Another place that’s arguably being loved to death, it’s enduringly beautiful.

The bay, which is located in Northeast Vietnam, stretches over 1500 square kilometres and is scattered with over 1600 islands and islets.

Ha Long Bay is known for its emerald waters and rainforest-topped islands and a favourite among beauty-seekers.

10. Jeita Grotto, Lebanon

When it comes to bucket list places to visit, The Jeita Grotto is often forgotten about. It’s a set of two separate but interconnected limestone caves, located in the Nahr al-Kalb Valley in Lebanon. 

It can only be entered by boat as it channels an underground river, but once inside, visitors can see the incredible rock formations, and beautiful stalactites and stalagmites.

11. Acropolis, Greece

The Acropolis in Athens is an ancient citadel located on the top of a hill in Athens, which contains many ancient (and remains of) buildings, such as the Parthenon, the Propylaea and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the Acropolis is a greatly important symbol of Greek history, architecture and spirit and visiting it should have a prime spot on your travel bucket list.

12. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Take whatever you’ve heard about Angkor Wat, times it by 100 and yet it will still blow you away. Sunrise at Angkor Wat is just straight up incredible. 

Angkor Wat is a mystical complex of temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, Angkor Wat also happens to be the largest religious monument in the world at 400 square kilometres – it’s made up of hundreds of incredible and awe inspiring temples and ruins.

If you need any more reason to believe you need to visit this special place, it even features on the country’s flag!

13. Chichén Itzá, Mexico

Chichén Itzá is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Sounds like something that deserves a place on your bucket list right? Right.

But what exactly is Chichen Itza? Well only the biggest archaeological city of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilisation, located in the Yucatán State, Mexico .

Its huge pyramid, El Castillo, is the centre of the ancient city. Both were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1988.

14. Machu Picchu, Peru

Sure, everybody raves about it… but you know what? That’s because it is incredible. Machu Picchu is the old Inca City, located on top of a 2500m mountain in the Cusco region of Peru, just above the Sacred Valley.

Forgotten by the Western world for centuries, it was rediscovered by intrepid explorer Hiram Bingham. Machu Picchu was crowned as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (of course).

IMHO Machu Picchu is the best archaeological site in the South American continent, and definitely deserves to be at the top of your South America bucket list .

15. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Who hasn’t dreamt of jetting off to see the mysterious Pyramids of Giza ?

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the outskirts of Cairo Egypt. The complex contains 3 pyramids, a Great Sphinx Sculpture and several cemeteries. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Egypt’s world-famous pyramids were built as a tomb for the pharaohs and their queens.

Now they’re one of the most recognisable (and photographed) structures in the world –  I fell head over heels for them after a recent visit to the country.

16. Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument, located in Wiltshire, England. I’ll be completely honest, I’ve never really got why everyone goes so nuts about them… but I can never resist a cheeky detour when I’m on my way to Glastonbury Festival.

The 4 metre high collection of stones were constructed over time between 2500 and 5000 years ago, and are now one of the seven Wonders of the World. Druids and Pagans still use the site to celebrate important occasions such as the summer solstice.

17. The Colosseum, Italy

How about adding the largest amphitheatre ever built to your list of 100 places to see before you die? Yep, thought so.

The Colosseum is an old amphitheatre in the middle of Rome – it was built to hold up to 80,000 spectators.

Although over the years it has been partially ruined by earthquakes, the Colosseum is still an iconic symbol of Rome, recognisable from around the world.

18. Bagan, Myanmar

Catapulted from a place very few people had heard of to one of the recent year’s travel hotspots, Bagan is a beautiful place. The ancient city in Myanmar is nicknamed the temple town, as it is home to 2,229 remaining temples and pagodas.

Most of these have been restored or preserved by UNESCO, and many contain incredible statues and carvings of Buddha – worth a visit in themselves. 

Head to the site early in the morning in the evening – you’ll see the most incredible Bagan sunrises and sunsets – preferably by hot air balloon.

19. Taj Mahal, India

Is it the most photographed building in the world? It’s certainly the best-known mausoleum.

The Taj Maha l is a white marble mausoleum, built in 1648 at the command of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, to remember his late wife.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the ornate Taj Mahal is a beautiful symbol of India and needs to be on any bucket list 100.

20. The Great Wall of China, China

China’s most famous landmark, The Great Wall of China is testament to the incredible building skills of civilisations past.

The “Great Wall” is actually a number of walls that run along the historical Northern borders of China, that were built to protect the Chinese against invasions from Eurasia.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it is the longest wall in the world – it’s even visible from space.

21. London, United Kingdom

London needs no introduction. This cosmopolitan capital is crammed with cool things to do and places to see and deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Dating back to Roman times, London is now home to a whopping nearly 9 million people… including the Royal Family.

Head here to see some of the world’s most famed attractions – Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and so many other pretty places to see in London , not to mention some of the most striking street art in the world and a plethora of brilliant restaurants.

Aside from tourist hot spots, London is filled with cool neighbourhoods well worth taking the time to explore – take Hackney, Shoreditch, Croydon, and Clapham, for example.

22. Paris, France

The City of Love – there’s a lot more to Paris than snuggling up for a cosy tete a tete with your other half.

Famed for its culture, art, cuisine and fashion, Paris has something for everyone – which explains why it’s on pretty much every bucket list 100 out there.

Whizz around between beautiful spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. Treat yourself to some fancy accommodation and enjoy one of Europe’s most opulent cities.

23. Florence, Italy

Another one of Europe’s cultural hotspots, Florence is well-known for being the birthplace of beautiful Renaissance art and architecture.

Art lovers will rejoice in Florence, with magnificent works by Michaelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci on display at the Uffizi Gallery. 

But that’s not all there is to this dreamy Italian spot – the food is impeccable, the city is filled with family-run trattorias and gelato hotspots. Prepare to spend half your time eating, and the other half snapping photos.

Planning a trip? Check out the many world-famous Italian landmarks Florence boasts, such as Ponte Vecchio, Florence Cathedral and its ‘Duomo’, the Palazzo Vecchio, and Boboli Gardens. Then hop in a car to discover the rest of Tuscany on a road trip.

24. Rome, Italy

Ahh Rome , what a city. Every time you think you have seen it all, Rome comes up with something else to surprise you.

Full of architecture, art and ancient ruins, it’s known worldwide for its fashion and designer boutiques. Head to the Colosseum for some history, the Vatican for some culture and the Trevi Fountain to make a wish.

Don’t even get me started on the sheer number of brilliant eateries either…

25. Vienna, Austria

The capital of Austria, Vienna is a dream. This gorgeous city is known across Europe for its baroque art and architecture, and its musical and intellectual legacy. 

Some of Vienna’s most well known attractions are the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg, a complex of palaces.

Viennese cafe culture is also one of the best in Europe, so much so that UNESCO popped it on their intangible cultural heritage list. Head into one of Vienna’s very many cafes for a Viennese coffee and a slice of schokotorte.

26. Oxford, United Kingdom

Oxford is one of the UK’s most famous cities, thanks to its prestigious university (I studied there and it was just as incredible as you would imagine).

With the university dating back to the 11th century, Oxford is full of so many things to do – old architecture, beautiful scenery and tasty cuisine.

Head to Oxford to see the Museum of Natural History, the Oxford Botanic Gardens, and of course its prestigious university and its colleges.

27. Havana, Cuba

Cuba’s evocative capital is an unforgettable experience – there’s no way I’d leave it out of my pick of top 100 bucket list destinations. It’s been a while since I’ve visited but the sights and sounds of the city will always stay with me.

Gorgeous 16th-century architecture and vintage American cars , music and dance – not forgetting the delicious cuisine and daiquiris!

When you’re here, head to the Revolution Museum, Morro Castle and Old Havana, to see the best bits. It’s no wonder that Hemingway loved it – pop into El Floridita , his favourite bar.

28. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro may NOT be Brazil’s capital but it makes up for it with culture, looks and fun.

The first time I visited Rio, I was fresh-faced and 18 – several (and I mean several) years later, I’m just as in love with Rio as when I first clapped eyes on it.

This vibrant capital city is best known for its architecture, forest topped mountains and golden beaches. Some of Rio’s best sights are the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

29. Venice, Italy

Venice might be sinking but we still love it. In truth, it’s difficult to leave Venice out of any list of must-see travel spots, BUT it is suffering from serious overtourism, so you might want to skip it in favour of somewhere quieter.

Full of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, there are very few roads in Venice, mostly canals, with boats and gondolas to transport people. The best places to see are the Piazza San Marco, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge – just magical!

30. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is more than relaxed marijuana laws and chilled out coffee shops. Home to an impressive array of world-class museums, beautiful canals, gorgeous architecture and history.

Start by visiting the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, walk along the canals and spend some time exploring the city by bike.

Dutch food might not be much to write home about, but they sure know a thing or two about sweet things – make it your mission to scoff as many poffertjes and stroopwafel as possible. A bucket list travel must.

31. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The Iguazu Falls are waterfalls on the Iguazu River that border Misiones, the Argentinian province, Paraná, the Brazilian state and Paraguay. At 82 metres high and the chain of falls nearly 3km long, they are the largest waterfalls system in the world.

Think the view can’t be better? Wait until you hear their astoundingly loud roar – sight and sound – it’s almost deafening, and an absolute thrill.

32. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe / Zambia

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, in southern Africa. 

Described by CNN as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the water at the Victoria Falls drops a staggering 108m, and is the largest curtain of water in the world.

The easiest way to visit is to fly to Livingstone, the nearest airport – from there it’s around 11km to the falls via a taxi.

Or, if you would really like to treat yourself (I approve), view the falls from above during a helicopter flight over the natural landmark. Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

33. Niagara Falls, Canada / USA

The Niagara Falls are a set of three impressive waterfalls that border Ontario, Canada, and New York State in the US. The three waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and the Bridal Veil Falls, all fall at the southern end of the Niagara gorge, and have a total height of 51m.

As the most famous falls in the world, Niagara is something that you’ve got to see. If you’re feeling brave, jump on one of the boat tours which take you up close and personal to the falls.

34. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls, China / Vietnam

The Ban Gioc–Detian Falls are a set of two waterfalls on the Quây Sơn River, on the border of China and Vietnam.

The main waterfall is the Detian waterfall, and the other waterfall is the Ban Gioc Waterfall, with the cumulative drop being a whopping 60m.

You can hop on a boat, which will take you on a river tour close to the falls for an extra-special experience.

35. Palouse Falls, USA

The Palouse Falls is a waterfall on the Palouse River, 6km up from the meeting with the Snake River, in southeast Washington in the United States.

The falls consist of an upper falls and a lower falls, which are drops of 6.1m and 60m respectively. Bring your hiking boots and set off on one of the numerous trails around the top and the bottom of the falls.

36. Shoshone Falls, USA

Shoshone Falls is a waterfall on the Snake River in Southern Idaho. Known as the ‘Niagara of the West’, the falls are 65m high (which is actually higher than Niagara) and flow over a 300m wide rim.

Formed over 14,000 years ago, the Shoshone Falls attract up to 300,000 vehicles per year, and are definitely worth a spot on your ultimate bucket list. Bring a picnic and grab a spot in one of the designated areas for a fabulous day out.

37. Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

Blue Nile Falls is a waterfall on the Blue Nile River, located in the north of Ethiopia. Known as ’Tis Abay’ in Amharic, meaning ‘great smoke’, the Falls are approximately 40 metres high, consisting of four streams.

This beautiful waterfall is one of Ethiopia’s top tourist attractions – just get ready for a hike to get the best views of the falls.

38. Gullfoss, Iceland

It’s hard to pick one waterfall from Iceland for our list, but Gullfoss can’t be missed. Gullfoss, meaning ‘Golden Waterfall’ is a waterfall located in the Olfusa River canyon, in Southwest Iceland.

The name comes from the golden colour of the waterfall in certain light – the result of sediment in the water.

The total height of Gullfoss is 32 metres and the longest drop is 21 metres. The beautiful waterfall offers brilliant views and we recommend going to see it on a sunny day, as there’s a big chance of seeing a rainbow shimmering over the falls.

Otherwise it’s a spectacular place to see the Northern Lights in the winter.

Visiting Gullfoss Waterfall in Iceland

39. McWay Falls, USA

The McWay Falls are a waterfall that flows from McWay Creek in picture-perfect Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park onto a beach in Big Sur on the west coast of California.

The image of the 24m McWay Falls cascading onto the beach is one of Big Sur’s most iconic and something you can’t miss. The hike to the falls is rather easy and boasts some of Big Sur’s best views.

40. The Maldives

The Maldives are a set of South Asian islands, located in the Indian ocean. Made up of 26 atolls, ring shaped coral reefs together containing over 1000 coral islands.

People come from far and wide for The Maldives’ beautiful islands, luxury accommodation, azure waters, and colourful marine life.

If you love beaches, watersports or simply soaking up the views of one of the most beautiful places on this planet, the Maldives should be on your list.

41. Vava’u Islands

The Vava’u islands are a set of islands, one large and 40 small, located in Tonga in the South Pacific. Neiafu, the capital of these islands, is a gorgeous destination well worth exploring – make sure to visit the striking St Joseph’s Cathedral.

Looking for spectacular things to do before you die?

This tropical paradise has crystal clear waters, white sand beaches and beautiful sea life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, spinner dolphins and Humpback whales – a wildlife lover’s paradise!

42. Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a Greek Island in the Southern Aegean Sea.

Known as the ‘supermodel’ of the Greek Islands, it is instantly recognisable by its whitewashed buildings with blue roofs, multicoloured cliffs, beautiful sunsets and dazzlingly sapphire coloured waters.

There’s so much to do in Santorini including exploring Akrotiri’s ruins and chilling on Kamari’s black sand beach. You might have to battle the crowds, but it’s totally worth it.

43. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is a small island in the South Pacific, Northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia.

Being Tahiti’s most famous island, it is popular with the luxury crowd thanks to its fabulous hotels.

Bora Bora is surrounded by a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, which is fabulous for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

44. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island and province of Indonesia, popular among backpackers travelling Southeast Asia but also with a luxury side, full of beautiful beaches, incredible food , culture scenery and wildlife.

Known for its surfing, yoga , diving and great resorts, the ‘essence of Bali’, and its traditions have stolen the hearts of many visitors.

45. Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

An archipelago in Brazil, Fernando de Noronha is known as both a beach lover’s shangri-la and an eco-wonderland. Built on volcanic rock, the coastline is as ragged as it is beautiful.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, this paradise is full of pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes and stunning wildlife. Apparently, even the sharks are friendly.

46. Maui, USA

Maui is an island which is part of the state of Hawaii, known for its natural beauty. It is Hawaii’s second-largest island, at 1,883 square kilometres. 

Known as the ‘Valley Isle’, Maui is famed for its world-famous beaches, the Iao Valley, humpback whales, and the marvellous sunset and sunrise from Haleakala. 

There are so many things to do in Maui with kids , as there are for a couple travelling alone.

47. Big Sur, USA

Big Sur is a stretch of California’s central coast. Forever linked with beat writers such as Jack Kerouac, Big Sur tops the list of many literary lovers’ travel bucket lists – but there’s more to its appeal than that.

Driving through Big Sur on a Highway 1 road trip is very popular, with beautiful places to stop and look out, such as Bixby Bridge and the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, where the picturesque McWay Falls (see our pick of top 10 waterfalls for your bucket list) meets the sandy shore and drifts into the Ocean.

48. Ko Samui, Thailand

Ko Samui is Thailand’s second largest island, located off the East Coast in the Gulf of Thailand. 

Ko Samui is home to lush rainforest, coconut palms and some of the most spectacular beaches in Thailand, such as Bang Por, Choeng Mon and Taling Nam, which is incredible for watching the sunset on.

49. Krabi, Thailand

Krabi is a province of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. It is home to some of the best beaches and islands in Southeast Asia, such as Railay Beach , with incredible rock formations making it a climbers paradise, and the Phi Phi Islands, where Leonardo DiCaprio’s ‘The Beach’ was filmed.

With white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning coral reefs, it’s no wonder that Krabi is at the top of most visitors’ lists of things to see when they’re in Thailand.

50. Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert is a desert located in Chile , South America and is one of the most surreal places on the planet.

The desert covers a 1000 square km area of land and is one of the driest places on Earth. Mars-like valleys, brightly coloured lakes, swarms of flamingos and the Southern hemisphere’s largest geyser field – if you’re heading to the Atacama desert, you’d better prepare to have your mind blown.

Check out my guide to road-tripping in the Atacama Desert.

51. Bolivia Salt Flats

The Bolivia Salt Flats (Salar de Uyuni) are located in the Potosí province in the southwest of Bolivia – not far from the Atacama Desert.

At 10,582 square km and placed 3,656m above sea level, they are the largest salt flats in the world. This incredible natural wonder was originally caused by the transformations of several prehistoric lakes, which are now covered by a few metres of salt crust.

52. Torres del Paine, Chile

Torres del Paine National Park is located in Patagonia, Chile. It is known for its beautiful mountains, blue icebergs and glaciers, and lush vegetation.

If you’re fit enough to take on the challenge, hiking the five day W trail should be on your list of things to do before you die – feeling even more adventurous? The 8-day O trek is for you.

The stunning Torres, after which the park is named, is the main attraction of the park, and over 250,000 visitors come to marvel at them every year. It’s honestly one of the most incredible places I’ve visited and well worth the hype.

53. Lake District, UK

The Lake District i s a mountainous area in Cumbria, in the north west of England, whose mountains, lakes and forests stretch over a huge 2,362 square km.

Boasting plenty of hikes and ways to reconnect with nature, this is a popular holiday destination for British tourists. 

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautiful scenery, the Lake District is also home to Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, and also the deepest and longest bodies of water in England – most definitely worth a trip.

54. Mù Cang Chả, Vietnam

Mù Cang Chả is a rural district located at the bottom of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in the northwest of Vietnam, in the Yên Bái Province.

It is home to incredible landscapes and perfectly-landscaped rice paddies – the Mù Cang Chả Rice Terrace has been recognised as one of the most unique landscapes in Vietnam, stretching across 22 square km of the mountainside.

Seeing the bright green paddies in real life is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of any trip to Vietnam.

55. Namib-Naukluft National Park, Namibia

The Namib-Naukluft National Park is located in Namibia, and encompasses part of the Namib Desert.

The Namib Desert is the world’s oldest desert, and Namib-Naukluft is the fourth-largest game park in the world. Wonderful creatures such as snakes, hyenas and geckos reside in the stunning signature red and orange sand.

56. Paro Valley, Bhutan

The Paro Valley is a lush valley located in western Bhutan. The historic town is full of culture, history and sacred sites, and the wide and richly vegetated Valley is one of Bhutan’s must-see sights. 

If you’re visiting the valley, you have to make a stop at Paro Taktsang which is tucked into the side of a cliff. It’s nicknamed the Tiger’s Nest Buddhist Temple and known one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan.

57. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Full of beautiful old Italian villas, farms, wineries and lush vegetation, it’s a beautiful location to visit. As I’ve already mentioned, Florence, the capital of the region, is filled with so many things for art-lovers to do.

Though it’s the gently rolling hills and green vineyards that make up a stunning landscape worthy of a postcard and a spot on your bucket list. Other must-visit towns include Montepulciano, Greve in Chianti, Montalcino and San Gimignano.

Travels Through Tuscany – the Ultimate Road Trip

59. Uluru, Australia

Uluru (previously known as Ayers Rock) is a large sandstone rock formation, located in the north central region of Australia, that rises 350 metres up away from its surrounding land.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, Uluru is home to beautiful waterholes, springs and rock caves.

One of Australia’s indigenous tribes most sacred sites, you can no longer hike onto the rock itself, but can still soak up its spiritual presence from up close.

60. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is a string of five seaside villages, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso, located in the region of Liguria in Italy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the area is full of colourful houses and vineyards and a beautiful blue harbour.

I’m betting it’s one of the most photographed places in Italy, but once you go, you can easily see why. Gorgeous views, even better wine, and a chilled-out pace of life – what’s not to love?

61. Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the free-standing bell tower of Italy’s Pisa Cathedral. Built in 1372 at 56 metres tall, the tower is famed for its unintended tilt – the result of the soft ground on which it was built.

Head to the tower, take the obligatory selfie (or three – don’t miss the one where you pretend to push it over!) but don’t forget to explore the rest of this charming city, which is surprisingly quiet once you get away from the big sights.

62. Golden Gate Bridge, USA

The Golden Gate Bridge is a 1,280m suspension bridge that links San Francisco with Marin County in Western California. Built in 1937 for a huge $35 million, since opening it has become an icon of San Francisco and the most photographed bridge in the world.

Hike through the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge Park to the bottom of the bridge for a different view of this iconic bridge.

63. Eiffel Tower , Paris

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower, located on the Champ de Mars, in Paris, France. The engineer Gustave Eiffel, designed the tower and then his company built it in 1889.

With a total height of 324m, the instantly recognisable Eiffel Tower is synonymous with the city of love. Head up to the top for amazing views out over the city.

64. Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro

The Christ the Redeemer Statue is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil . Built in 1931 by four men, Landowski, da Silva Costa, Caquor and Leonida, the 30 metre symbol of Rio sits atop of the Corcovado Mountain, looking over the city.

You can access the statue via a tough hike through the Tijuca rainforest, or via a tram or collectivo.

Whichever way you get there, the view of the city spread out below and of the statue itself is one of Rio’s real highlights.

65. The Palm Jumeirah, United Arab Emirates

The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial group of islands in Dubai , United Arab Emirates, located on the Jumeirah coast. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about things to do before you die, but it’s well worth the trip.

Taking 5 years to build from 2001 to 2006, the Palm is now full of luxury hotels, restaurants and residences. In keeping with Dubai’s reputation for glitz and glamour, a trip to The Palm Jumeirah is one for the luxury-lovers among you.

The island is also home to arguably the best water park in Dubai – spend a day cooling off and seeking thrills at the Atlantis Aquaventure.

66. St Basil’s Cathedral, Russia

St Basil’s Cathedral is located in Red Square, Moscow, Russia. Built in 1561, this world-famous and colourful landmark was inspired by the flame from a bonfire rising into the sky.

Officially called ‘The Cathedral of the Intercession of the Virgin by the Moat’, this 48m high building is a totally bonkers but beautiful creation that’s guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

67. Sydney Opera House, Australia

The Sydney Opera House is an arts venue, located at Bennelong Point in the middle of the Sydney Harbour, Australia. Built in 1973, the Opera House became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

The picturesque sail design of the house with the Sydney Harbour Bridge behind it is the iconic image of Sydney and a must-do on your Australia bucket list.

68. Statue of Liberty, USA

The Statue of Liberty is a sculpture of ‘Lady Liberty’, located on Liberty Island in the harbour in New York City.

The statue shows Lady Liberty holding a torch and a book with roman numerals of the date of the US Declaration of Independence.

Designed by Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the statue was dedicated to the US people from France in 1886.

The statue used to be the first sight of New York for those sailing into the city in days gone by, the boat trip to see  the statue is no less striking today.There is so much to enjoy in New York with various attractions, shopping and rooftop restaurants in New York .

69. Big Ben, United Kingdom

Big Ben (a nickname for the clock on the Elizabeth Tower), is a tower at the end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England.

Ever since it was built in 1859, it has been a British cultural icon, and is the most prominent symbol of London and the United Kingdom.

Big Ben is currently undergoing renovation works, but you can still take a peek at the Houses of Parliament below.

Want an extra-special view? Take one of the numerous boat cruises that float down the Thames for picture opps without the crowds.

70. Empire State Building, USA

The Empire State Building is a skyscraper, located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, New York City (between West 33rd and 34th streets to be precise).

The 102 storey building is not only a work office, but also has a viewing deck at the top where visitors can see the whole of the city.

The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City, and was designated the status of a National Historic Landmark in 1986. Book your ticket and get whisked up to the top for spectacular views out over the city.

71. Mount Everest, China / Nepal

Mount Everest, located in the Mahalangur range of the Himalayas, is the highest mountain on Earth at 8,848 m, with the border between China and Nepal running across its summit.

Since it was first climbed in 1953, Mount Everest has attracted keen climbers from all over, with two main climbing routes, one starting in southeast Nepal and the other in the north of Tibet in China – do you dare to rise to the challenge?

Just how tough is it to climb Mount Everest?

72. Rainbow Mountain Peru

Mount Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain , is a mountain in the Andes in Cusco, Peru.  

With its highest peak at 5,200m, Vinicunca is full of desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks and lots of alpacas!

Though South America isn’t short on a hike or two, this one comes with close-up views of the multi-coloured mountains and its picturesque surroundings.

73. Matterhorn, Switzerland

The Matterhorn is located in the Swiss Alps. At 4,478 m, it is one of the largest mountains in Europe and the Alps. Surrounded by glaciers, the Matterhorn is an incredibly beautiful site, with an almost symmetrical peak.

Skilled mountaineers can climb to the top of the mountain, but even if that’s not you, we pretty much guarantee you’ll be blown away by views of the mountain up close.

74. Fitz Roy, Argentina / Chile

Mount Fitz Roy is a mountain in Patagonia, located in the Southern Patagonian Ice Field near El Chaltén on the border of Argentina and Chile .

First climbed in 1952, today it still remains one of the most challenging climbs on Earth with its highest point at 3,405 m.

Not quite up to the challenge? You can hike to the base of the mountain from El Chalten without too much difficulty.

75. K2, China / Pakistan

K2, also known as Mount Godwin Austen, is the second highest mountain in the world, at 8611 metres high, located on the border between China and Pakistan.

Not many dare to climb K2 as it is so dangerous. K2 is sometimes called the ‘Savage Mountain’, with a terrifying one out of four climbers never making it back.

76. Table Mountain, South Africa

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain overlooking Cape Town in South Africa . The mountain is just over 1,085 metres tall and 3km from either side.

Visitors either hike up to the top or get the cable-car up (hint: do the hike, it’s awesome). Once at the top, the sweeping views of the city are incredible.

Cape Town is often chosen as one of the most spectacular cities in the world, and the views from Table Mountain give you a good idea why.

77. Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park is Canada’s national playground. Forming part of the Rockies National Park, Canada’s first national park, Banff’s highest peak is Bonnet Peak at 3,235 m.

The beautiful snow capped mountains surrounded by lush green forests and charming lakes are too tempting not to explore – doing so should be on your list of things to do before you die.

78. Mount Huangshan, China

Mount Huangshan is a mountain range is the Anhui Province in Eastern China, with its top height reaching 1,864 metres. Mount Huangshan and its surrounding area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, lush vegetation and incredible views.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990, Mount Huangshan is known as ‘the loveliest mountain in China’. Even more reason to see it with your own eyes.

79. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

The Atlas Mountains are a mountain range in north west Africa. Their highest peak is Jebel Toubkal at 4,167 metres high and located in Morocco.

Its lush valleys, snow-capped peaks and traditional Berber villages make trekking in the Atlas Mountains a fantastic experience.

The Atlas Mountains are a relatively short trip from Marrakech and well deserving of a detour from the charming city.

80. Mont Blanc, France

Mont Blanc (meaning ‘White Mountain) is located in the Graian Alps, which run between France and Italy.

Mont Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and in Europe at 4,808m, and is very popular for hiking, mountaineering, snowboarding and skiing.

Seasoned skiers and snowboarders can hike up and ski or board down in the summer months – beware, the hike up is pretty tough.

81. Yellowstone SuperVolcano, USA

Yellowstone Super Volcano is located in the ethereal Yellowstone National Park , in the northwest of Wyoming, US.

Known for its super-volcanoes, crazily coloured lakes and ever-faithful geysers, Yellowstone might well be the US national park highest on your list of things to do before you die (though maybe Yosemite beats it to the first spot).

82. Popocatépetl Volcano, Mexico

Popocatépetl Volcano is an active volcano located in the Mexico, Puebla and Morelos states in Central Mexico.

At 5,426m high, it is the second-tallest peak in Mexico. You can visit the park surrounding the volcano from Mexico City – bear in mind that it is an active volcano, so you should check before you set out.

83. Mount Vesuvius, Italy

Mount Vesuvius is a volcano located in Naples, in Campania, Italy. The 1,280m volcano is best known for its eruption in 79AD that destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, and being the most densely populated volcanic region in the world.

However, despite the risk, the sight of the beautiful volcano standing tall over the city of Naples is truly amazing. You can undertake the hike to the top independently, or go on a guided hike to take advantage of the local knowledge.

84. Mount Etna, Italy

Mount Etna is a volcano between Messina and Cantania, in Sicily, Italy. At 3,330m high, it is Europe’s tallest active volcano, and Italy’s highest peak south of the Alps. Although it is one of the world’s most active volcano sites, in 2013 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty.

It’s a tough trek to the top, but the views once you get there are worth the sweat.

85. Mount Fuji, Japan

Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on Honshu Island, in the Southwest of Japan. At 3,770 metres tall, it is the highest mountain in Japan.

The mountain is one of Japan’s sacred sites – it’s not unusual for people to make a pilgrimage trek to the top.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, UNESCO has also recognised 25 locations within the Mount Fuji locality to be sites of cultural interest – meaning there’s plenty for you to do when you tick this one off your bucket list.

86. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with three volcanic cones, located in the Kilimanjaro National Park in East Tanzania, Africa.

At 5,895 metres above sea level, it is the highest mountain in Africa. Kilimanjaro is one of Africa’s best-known adventure spots and the hike to the top is a once in a lifetime experience.

87. Mauna Loa, USA

Mauna Loa is an active volcano located in Hawaii, United States. It’s considered to be the Earth’s largest volcano with an impressive 75,000 cubed km volume.

Although Mauna Loa has been erupting for at least 700,000 years and still erupts today, the eruptions are very fluid and tend to be non-explosive, so it is a very safe area to visit.

It’s a tough hike, even by Hawaiian standards, but when else will you get to climb the world’s largest volcano?

88. Mount Bromo, Indonesia

Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park in East Java, Indonesia, and is part of the Tengger massif, a volcano complex.

Sitting in the middle of a plain of sand, the beautiful 2300m volcano provides visitors with unparalleled views, which can be reached by taking a 2 hour walk to the top. Head up at night to catch sunrise at the top – an unforgettable experience.

89. Thrihnukagigur Volcano, Iceland

Thrihnukagigur Volcano is a dormant volcano near Reykjavík, Iceland, that covers 3,270 square metres and is 213m deep.

Opening to tourists in 2012, it is the only volcano in the world where you can take a lift down into the magma chamber. Such an incredible sight is totally deserving of a spot on your bucket list.

90. Mount Helen, USA

Mount Helen is an active volcano located in Skamania County in Washington State, United States – less than 100 miles away from Seattle. Mount St Helens is well known for its ash explosions and flows of gas and volcanic matter, especially during the notorious 1980 eruption.

The huge volcano is located in the Cascade Range which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a group of 452 active volcanoes dotted around the rim of the Pacific, all prone to eruption.

There are more than 200 miles of trails in the surrounding area – allowing you to see a different side of the volcano on two feet.

91. Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara National Reserve is a game reserve in Narok County in Kenya, Africa, that neighbours the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania.

It is famous for its wonderful animals and wildlife, including African leopards and Kenyan cheetahs, Masai lions, zebra, wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelle and over 470 species of bird. It is perfect for the animal lover.

Heading on a safari into the Masai Mara is one of the most popular travel bucket list ideas – when are you going to tick it off yours?

92. Amazon Rainforest, South America

The Amazon Rainforest is a rainforest that expands over Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana, in South America.

The whole thing encompasses a huge 7 million square kilometres, and is home to 16,000 species of 390 billion trees, 2.5 million insect species and 2,000 mammal and bird species.

Eco-friendly luxury lodges, steamer boat cruises, incredible hikes – the only problem you’ll have when it comes to planning your trip to the Amazon is how much you can fit into the time you have.

93. The Serengeti, Tanzania / Kenya

The Serengeti is a region in Africa, expanding over northern Tanzania and in the south of Kenya, over 30,000 square kilometres.

The Serengeti is renowned for its large lion population, including 70 large mammal species, such as buffalos and gazelles, and 500 bird species, as well as a range of surroundings with everything from swamps to grasslands.

Book a safari for an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime experience.

94. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands are an archipelago of islands located in the Pacific Ocean over the Equator, such that the islands are in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere.

The islands are well known for their wildlife that are unique to just them, including giant tortoises, Galapagos finches and penguins, Galapagos hawks, fur seals and blue-footed boobies.

Walk in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and see the islands in their full glory on a several-day boat tour.

95. The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast in Queensland, Australia.

The reef system, which stretches over a nearly 350,000 square kilometre area, comprises over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, this colourful place is home to millions of creatures, including dolphins, whales, fish, turtles and birds. 

On a sourer note, the Great Barrier Reef is being destroyed due to climate change, so who knows how much longer it will be around for? This beautiful place deserves a top spot on your list of things to do before you die.

96. Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Island is a 390 square kilometre island, located in the middle of the Flores Sea and part of the Republic of Indonesia.

Named as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, this beautiful island is home to many species, including Javan deer, water buffalo and the 3km long Komodo dragon, the largest lizard on Earth.

Komodo Dragons are notoriously dangerous but spying them in their natural habitat is a memorable experience.

97. Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa

Addo Elephant National Park might not be South Africa’s best-known safari destination (that title has to go to Kruger), but it’s the one I loved the most.

Tucked away in the beautiful Addo region in the Eastern Cape, the Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big Seven (the big five plus Southern Whales and Great White Sharks) thanks to its ocean territory.

Safari in Addo Elephant National Park

98. The Danum Valley, Malaysia

The Danum Valley is located in Sabah Forest, Borneo, Malaysia . The 438 square kilometre Conservation Area is known for its Bornean orangutans, gibbons, 270 species of bird and the rare East Sumatran rhinos.

People come from all over to see these special creatures, and it is definitely worth a spot on your bucket list.

99. Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island is an island off the coast of South Australia. The island is home to hundreds of species of wildlife including the Kangaroo Island Kangaroo, the Tammar Wallaby and Rosenberg’s Sand Goanna, which are all native to the island, as well as non-native creatures such as sea lions and koalas.

Visit the island to experience its wild and rugged beauty and wildlife spotting opportunities galore.

100. Kalahari Desert

The Kalahari Desert is a savanna in Southern Africa that extends for over 900,000 square kilometres over Botswana, Namibia and South Africa.

The Kalahari Desert is home to hundreds of exotic species of animals including brown hyenas, meerkats, the Kalahari lion, and many species of reptiles and birds.

A trip to the Kalahari is like stepping into another universe – one that will provide you will snaps (and memories) you’ll never forget.

There we are, 100 places for your travel bucket list. How many have you ticked off?

Looking For More Ideas for Your Bucket List?

• 100 Places to Visit in Europe You Shouldn’t Miss
• 100 Places to Visit in South America – The South America Bucket List
• UK Bucket List Ideas 

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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I alway love these kinds of lists. But “100” is an arbitrary number. Better to list the top things and get a list as long or short as it turns out to be. A few conspicuous omissions from the list: Antarctica; Madagascar’s Spiny Forest; slave forts of Ghana; underground stone-carved churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia; the palace complex and surrounds in Bangkok; and maybe the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. List should include a section on tribal people and unique cultures such as the tribes of the Omo Valley in SE Ethiopia and the Inuit of Canada, etc.; famous scenic train trips; best rivers & fjords to navigate. Nevertheless, a fun list! Have seen 61 of these, plan to see 15 still on my list. 23 others are nice but I don’t plan to see. 4 of them I have no interest in. (Been to a number of the countries the items are in, but not to see the listed items.)

Thanks for the suggestions – some really interesting ones there – if we update the piece, we’ll be sure to take your additions on board.

Colosseum is in Italy, not Greece (number 19), though it does mention Rome.

Great spot – obviously a typo slipped in there. Clearly meant to say Italy as I reference Rome 4 times in the para.

Um. Yosemite, then out to Hwy 395 in the Eastern Sierra of CA.

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100 points of ID to open a bank account

You can meet the 100 points of id requirement when opening a bank account by showing your passport, birth certificate or driver's license. if you don't have these, there are a few other things you can use as id..

In this guide

What is the 100 point system?

How to verify your identity, compare bank accounts that you can open online.

Investments

If you're a new customer to any Australian bank or financial institution, you'll have to verify your identity with 100 points of ID. This is required when you open a new bank account, and it can be done online without needing to visit a bank branch.feed

This is a personal identification system put in place by the Australian government to combat financial transaction fraud by people and companies. It ensures that only you can access your own accounts.

You are required to use a series of documents when verifying your identity. Primary documents are worth 70 points and secondary documents can be worth: 40, 35 and 25 points. Take a look at the table below to see the documents needed and how many points they earn you.

Primary documents are the document only and secondary documents must have a photograph and name.

Primary documents: 70 points

• Birth certificate
• Birth card issued by NSW Registry of Births
• Citizenship certificate
• Current passport
• Expired passport which has not been cancelled and was current within the preceding two years
• Other document of identity having the same characteristics as a passport including diplomatic documents

Secondary (photograph and name): 40 points

• Driver license issued by an Australian State or territory
• Road and Maritime Services photo card
• License or permit issued under a law of the Commonwealth, a State or Territory government
• Identification card issued to a public employee
• Identification card issued by the Commonwealth
• An identification card issued to a student at a tertiary education institution

Secondary (must have name and address on it): 35 points

• A document held by a cash dealer giving security over your property
• Council rates notice
• Land Titles Office record
• Document from your current employer or previous employer within the last two years
• A mortgage or other instrument of security held by a financial body

Secondary (must have name and signature/date of birth): 25 points

• Marriage certificate (for maiden name only)
• Credit card
• Foreign driver license
• Medicare card
• EFTPOS card
• Record of primary, secondary or tertiary education institution attended by you within the last 10 years
• Record of professional or trade association of which you are a member

When you've got your documents ready, you can verify your identity online when applying for a new bank account. All you need to do is follow the prompts. If you're using your driver's license, for example, you'll be prompted to enter the license number and you might need to scan an image of the front too.

The good news is you can verify you identity completely online in minutes, no need to visit a bank branch.

If you can't verify your identity online

If you're unable to provide the ID required to open a bank account online, you'll need to visit a bank branch to do it in person. An employee at the branch will be able to help you source the ID required, or give you advice on where to go to get this done.

If you're unable to visit a bank branch, we suggest you try visit a Centrelink office or a Services Australia office instead.

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Shirley Liu

Shirley Liu is Finder's global program manager. She was previously the publisher for banking and investments and has also written comparisons for energy, money transfers, Uber Eats and many other topics. Shirley has a Master of Commerce and a Bachelor of Media, Journalism and Communications from the University of New South Wales. She is passionate about helping people find the best deal for their needs.

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Study with financial peace of mind knowing your money is at your fingertips whenever you need it.

International transaction fees can add up to a lot of wasted money. These debit cards are great for travelling and online shopping and will save you money by waiving this annoying fee.

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6 Responses

Can i apply for Australian bank account before received my Immigration Visa?

Hi, to open an Australian bank account you will need to have an Australian residential address. Thanks, Alison

I have a bank account buy only in my name now I find that my wife needs to be on the account but after 46 yrs she has never driven nor travelled overseas so now she has trouble getting the required 100 points her passport has expired in 1972 in her maiden name she is on aged pension so had centrlink card medicare card but we don’t own property and she hasn’t worked for 35yrs

Hi, other forms of ID may include a government health or pension card plus a Medicare card. We’d suggest speaking to your bank about how you can verify her identity to be added to the account – you may need to do this in person at a brank branch.

how can the bank ID me online and be sure I am who I say I am?

Each bank’s online verification process could slightly vary, but as part of the Anti-Money Laundering and CounterTerrorism Financing Act (2006), applicants are required to present valid documentation to meet the 100-point identification requirements.

To complete a 100 Point Identification Check, you need to present current, original identification documents that add up to at least 100 Points. You may also be asked to scan an image of the ID. The bank will review the details in your application to see if it matches the details you provided during your online ID check.

I hope this helps!

Best, Alison

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Explore Stockholm: 100 Point Challenge

Posted By Lola A. Åkerström on Mar 30, 2017

Explore Stockholm with the 100 Point Challenge

Go behind the scenes of one of the most exciting ways to experience Stockholm on foot.

Photos courtesy of Dan Paech / 100 Point Challenge

According to founders Dan Paech and Annica Curtis who describe it as the “ Amazing Race meets the local pub quiz”, the 100 Point Challenge  is an outdoor group activity, that involves walking around and exploring Stockholm.

Teams compete with each other for two hours, solving a series of questions involving a mix of history and culture, and completing challenges at points of interest around central Stockholm.

So we met up with founder Dan Paech to go behind the scenes.

STS: How did the idea behind the 100 Point Challenge come about?

While working as a tour guide for Run With Me Stockholm , I often talked to people, both locals and visitors, about what I was doing, including the types of places we visited and information we shared on our tours. A common response was, “that sounds fun but I’m not a runner!”

This got me thinking about creating something for people who were not interested in the running tours, but still wanted to explore Stockholm. I was also thinking it would good to be able to offer something fun for locals as well as tourists.

So I started thinking about creating a game. I wanted it to be outdoors, active, social, fun and educational. Being a competitive person myself, I also wanted there to be an element of competition.

In April 2016, I tried the first version of the game with a group of friends, giving it a Swedish name “hundrapoängsjakten”. At that point the format was quite different to what it is today, people used their mobile phones to take photos, and the questions were largely history-based.

I found out I had made the game too hard, with both teams, made up of a majority of Swedes, scoring less than 60 points.

During the summer of 2016, I ran different versions of the game as team building exercises for companies, and continued to gather feedback and re-design it. Greg, founder at Questrooms Stockholm , played with his staff, and suggested making an easier version to be more suitable for tourists.

So I modified the information and questions we had to create multiple versions of the game, one for those with no knowledge of Stockholm, known as “Astrid’s Adventure”, an intermediate level game, called Björn’s Battle, and the ultimate test for locals known as Gustav’s Glory.

Take us behind the challenge – what is it about and why would it be of interest to travellers to Stockholm?

The 100 Point Challenge is about having fun; and seeing and learning about Stockholm in a different way.

One of our early customers described it as “the Amazing Race meets a Swedish-themed quiz night”, and we think that is a great description.

We cater for tourists who are bored with conventional walking tours, and have a more adventurous spirit. They want to interact with the city in a different way, and participate more actively in what they do.

The goal for each team is to complete as many of the challenges as they can in two hours, with the highest possible score being 100 points.

In Astrid’s Adventure, we educate people in a fun and creative way about Swedish history and culture, while making sure they visit some locations in Stockholm that they wouldn’t normally find on their own as a visitor in Stockholm. We also make sure they have some memorable pictures to take home.

When are the next few challenges taking place and how can people follow along / sign up?

We run Astrid’s Adventure every Saturday morning at 10 am from April until November. We also have private bookings available for groups with more than 6 people and organize company team building. People can sign up via our website: www.100pointchallenge.com/stockholm  

No one has scored 100 points yet!  The highest scores to date are: Astrid’s Adventure (92), Björn’s Battle is (87) and Gustav’s Glory (80).

Have you got what it takes to complete the 100 Point Challenge?

Author: Lola A. Åkerström

Lola Akinmade Åkerström is an award-winning writer, photographer, and travel blogger , and is also the Founder/Editor-in-chief of Slow Travel Stockholm. Her photography is represented by National Geographic Creative. She tweets at @LolaAkinmade .

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At Stanford Blood Center, we love to celebrate our donors! If you have donated blood with Stanford Blood Center, you’ve been enrolled in our Loyalty Program. For each donation (or attempt to donate), you’ll be awarded points that you may redeem in our online store. You’ll also have online access to your historical vital statistics such as hemoglobin and blood pressure, as well as donation history. It’s our way of thanking donors for their generous support of our community’s patients.

Donation Point System

Whole Blood Donations

If you are a whole blood, platelet or plasma donor, points are earned on this schedule, per donation, within a calendar year:

• Visit 1 = 100 points
• Visit 2 = 125 points
• Visit 3 = 150 points
• Visit 4+ = 175 points

SuperRed Donations (formerly called Double Red Blood Cell Donations)

If you are a SuperRed donor, points are earned on this schedule, per donation, within a calendar year:

• DRBC Visit 1 = 200 points
• DRBC Visit 2 = 225 points
• DRBC Visit 3+ = 250 points

Platelet Donations

If you are a platelet donor, points are earned on this schedule, per donation, within a calendar year:

• Visit 1 = 100 points x number of components donated
• Visit 2 = 125 points x number of components donated
• Visit 3 = 150 points x number of components donated
• Visit 4+ = 175 points x number of components donated

Plasma Donations

If you are a plasma donor, points are earned on this schedule, per donation, within a calendar year:

• Visit 1 = 100 points x number of components donated

Bonus Points!

In order to incentivize donations when and where we most need them most for patients, we are offering additional points for all donation types according to the following breakdown:

• Center Visit = 50 points
• Appointment Scheduled and Kept = 25 points
• Time of Day (12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m., +/- 10 minutes) = 25 points

Donors can choose to redeem points for SBC branded items in our Donor Loyalty Store or can donate their points back to one of our community partners.

( Donor Store FAQs )

Donor Milestone Program

In addition to our Loyalty Program and rewards store, we take great joy in cheering on our donors as they reach incredible milestones of service to their community. On the day of the milestone donation (100+, 200+, etc.), we indulge in a little celebration and lots of good conversation with some of the best people we have the pleasure to know.

Precious Mettle Breakfast

All donors who reach the milestone of 100+ donations are invited to our annual Precious Mettle Breakfast.

Below are photos from the 2019 breakfast. You can click on the group photo below to open a high-resolution version, then right-click to save the photo to your computer.

Thank you, as always, to all of our Precious Mettle donors!

OUR MISSION: We lead the fields of transfusion and transplantation medicine by advancing science and technology. We provide hope for the future by teaching the medical leaders of tomorrow. We enhance lives by connecting donors to patients every day. ©2017–2024 Stanford Blood Center. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy — Website Feedback — Contact Us

Microsoft Rewards

Earn rewards with Microsoft. Just by simply doing what you love to do.  Sign in or create a Microsoft account and get points for gift cards, sweepstakes, and more.*

You will receive emails about Microsoft Rewards, which include offers about Microsoft and partner products. Terms | Privacy

Getting started is easy

Earn points for each search you make through Bing on your PC

Mobile search

Earn points on the go when you search through Microsoft Bing on your mobile device

Windows search box

Start searches in your Windows search box to keep on earning more

Earn points by searching with Bing in the Microsoft Edge browser

Earn points by searching with Bing in the Microsoft Edge mobile app

Microsoft Cashback

Earn money back on purchases from top retailers when you shop online in Microsoft Edge

Microsoft Rewards in console

Earn points for playing games and more

The Xbox app for Windows

Earn points for playing games with the Xbox app on your Windows PC desktop

Tech purchases

Earn points for buying the latest tech online at Microsoft Store like Surface, accessories, and more

Digital purchases

Earn points for buying movies , top apps , Xbox games , and more online

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• How to earn
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* Point earning limits apply.  Microsoft Rewards is available in these markets . Learn more in the frequently asked questions  page.

Places To Visit in India

Here are the top 100 tourist places in india, 1. srinagar.

1 out of 100 Places to visit in India 56 Tourist attractions

Famously known as 'Heaven on Earth, Srinagar is located in the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir, on the banks of river Jhelum. Srinagar is known for the stationary houseboats and gondola-type rowboats- Shikaras on Dal Lake. Adorned with tranquil Dal Lake & Nigeen Lake, Srinagar i...

Best Time: April to October

2. Leh Ladakh

2 out of 100 Places to visit in India 70 Tourist attractions

Ladakh is a union territory in the Kashmir region of India. Formerly falling in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh was administered a union territory on 31st October 2019. Extending from the Siachen Glacier to the main Great Himalayas, Ladakh is a land like no other. Dominated by dramatic land...

Best Time: June to September

3 out of 100 Places to visit in India 34 Tourist attractions

Incredibly alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Lying at the height of 1650 m above sea level, the town during its bright sunny days offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is a base ...

Best Time: Throughout the year

4 out of 100 Places to visit in India 81 Tourist attractions

Replete with turquoise blue water beaches and a bit of history, Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a little slice of paradise tucked around 1,400 km away from the east coast of mainland India. Port Blair, the capital of this union territory, has a major airport and seaport connected with the rest of t...

Best Time: October to Jun

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Best India Tour Package - Shimla, Kullu and Manali

Kashmir tour package 9 days with gondola ride, leh ladakh summer holiday package with nubra & pangong stay, bestseller andaman and nicobar tour package, sikkim tour package for 7 days - excursion to tsomgo lake, shimla manali dharamshala dalhousie tour package - day trip to khajjiar.

5 out of 100 Places to visit in India 51 Tourist attractions

With spectacular valleys, breathtaking views, snowcapped mountains, and lush forests of oak, deodar, and pine, Manali is a magical hill station at the northern end of Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh. Gifted to the world by the mighty Himalayas, it is known to be one of the most popular destinations...

Best Time: October to June

6 out of 100 Places to visit in India 20 Tourist attractions

Located on the banks of River Yamuna in Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a popular tourist destination as it is home to one of the 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. It is a sneak peek into the architectural history and legacy of the Mughal empire with two other UNESCO World Heritage S...

Best Time: October to March

7. Alleppey

7 out of 100 Places to visit in India 37 Tourist attractions

Officially called Alappuzha, Alleppey is known for its network of canals and lagoons with beautiful backwaters and the houseboats offering overnight stays. Located in the southern part of Kerala, the coastline of Alleppey offers some of the best beaches with water sports during the dry sea...

Best Time: June to March

8 out of 100 Places to visit in India 30 Tourist attractions

Situated at an altitude of 2730 m above sea level, Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination located in Pir Panjal Range of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Surrounded by snow-covered lofty Himalayas, meadows of flowers, deep ravines, evergreen forested valleys, Gulmarg also has the world's secon...

9. Darjeeling

9 out of 100 Places to visit in India 30 Tourist attractions

Darjeeling, the former summer capital of India under the British Raj, has evolved into one of India's most sought-after hill stations. This picturesque hill destination in West Bengal is ideal for a romantic honeymoon. Darjeeling, nestled among acres of tea estates, is 2,050 metres above sea level a...

Best Time: February to March, September to December

10 out of 100 Places to visit in India 197 Tourist attractions

Lying on the western coast, Goa is India's smallest state and unlike any other, known for its endless beaches, stellar nightlife, eclectic seafood, world-heritage listed architecture. Spread across just 3,702 km, Goa lies in the Konkan region. It is a far cry from the hippie haven or ...

Best tourist destinations in India

Beaches in India

National Parks in India

Hill Stations in India

Historical Places in India

Honeymoon Places in India

Religious Places in India

11. Udaipur

11 out of 100 Places to visit in India 43 Tourist attractions

Udaipur, the "City of Lakes," stands as a jewel in the crown of Rajasthan, India. Nestled amidst the Aravalli Range, this city captivates visitors with its regal charm, historic grandeur, and scenic landscapes. Located around stunning water lakes and enveloped by the Aravalli Hills in all direc...

12 out of 100 Places to visit in India 67 Tourist attractions

Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, stands as a jewel in the crown of the Golden Triangle, alongside Delhi and Agra. This enchanting city, often referred to as the "Pink City," owes its nickname to the terracotta-pink hue that adorns many of its buildings. The Pink City is a testament to the roya...

13. Varanasi

13 out of 100 Places to visit in India 42 Tourist attractions

World's oldest living city, Varanasi - also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benaras, is the spiritual capital of India. It is one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. The old city of Varanasi lies along the western banks of the Ganges, spread across a labyrinth of narrow galis. Be&...

14 out of 100 Places to visit in India 51 Tourist attractions

Famous for the tea estates, greenery, winding roads, blanket of mist, and viewpoints, Munnar is a hill station in Kerala, located in the Idukki district. Lying in the Western Ghats at 1600 metres, it is one of the most sought after and visited travel destinations globally, especially popular amongst...

Best Time: September to May

15. Lakshadweep

15 out of 100 Places to visit in India 17 Tourist attractions

Formerly known as Laccadive Islands, Lakshadweep translates to 'one hundred thousand islands' in Malayalam. Home to a few of the most beautiful and exotic islands and beaches of India, Lakshadweep lies 400km off the southwest coast of the Arabian Sea. The smallest union territory of India has&n...

16. Amritsar

16 out of 100 Places to visit in India 34 Tourist attractions

Amritsar, colloquially known as Ambarsar, is a city steeped in history and spirituality. It stands as a prominent cultural and religious hub in the heart of Punjab, as the second largest city of India. The city is most renowned for the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine in Sikhism. The resplende...

17 out of 100 Places to visit in India 37 Tourist attractions

Located amidst imposing mountains in Karnataka with a perpetually misty landscape, Coorg is a popular coffee producing hill station. It is popular for its beautiful green hills and the streams cutting right through them. It also stands as a popular destination because of its culture and people....

18 out of 100 Places to visit in India 43 Tourist attractions

Nestled amidst Nilgiri hills, Ooty, also known as Udagamandalam, is a hill station in Tamil Nadu which serves as a top-rated tourist destination. Once regarded as the summer headquarters of the East India Company, the Queen of the hills is a picturesque getaway.

19. Rishikesh

19 out of 100 Places to visit in India 53 Tourist attractions

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas along the convergence of Ganga and Chandrabhaga River, Rishikesh is a small town in the Dehradun district, located close to Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Rishikesh (also called as Hrishikesh) is known for its adventure activities, ancient temples, popular ca...

20. Kodaikanal

20 out of 100 Places to visit in India 35 Tourist attractions

Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal is one of the most famous honeymoon destinations in India. A Lakeside resort town of Tamil Nadu, Kodaikanal has a beautiful climate, mist-covered manicured cliffs and waterfall that come together to create the ideal setting for a perfect getaway. Kodaik...

21. Mcleodganj

21 out of 100 Places to visit in India 42 Tourist attractions

Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most popular tourist destinations for it's tibetan culture, nature treks, greenery, ancient temples & monasteries, and british influence. Located in the Kangra district, it's on the outskirts of Dharamshala.Famous for being home to the Tibetan spir...

22. Nainital

22 out of 100 Places to visit in India 33 Tourist attractions

Nainital is a charming hill station located at the foothills of the Kumaon ranges in Uttarakhand. Located close to Dehradun and Delhi, it is the most visited hill station in North India. Nainital is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi and the nearby places.

23 out of 100 Places to visit in India 63 Tourist attractions

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and a popular hill-station among Indian families and honeymooners. Situated at the height of 2200m, it was the summer capital of British India. The hill station still retains its old-world charm with beautiful colonial architecture, pedestrian...

24 out of 100 Places to visit in India 118 Tourist attractions

The capital of India, Delhi is a cosmopolitan city with a historic old Delhi and the modern New Delhi. From historical monuments to crowded shopping malls, from an extensive network of the modern metro system to Delhi University campus, Dilli has multiple personalities and is considered to be the ci...

25. Kolkata

25 out of 100 Places to visit in India 79 Tourist attractions

Kolkata, India's second biggest city, is a perpetually ongoing festival of human existence, concurrently luxurious and squalid, refined and frantic, pointedly futuristic, while beautifully in decay. A vibrant 350-year-old metropolis located on India's Eastern Coast, the capital of West Bengal thrive...

26. Mussoorie

26 out of 100 Places to visit in India 36 Tourist attractions

Mussoorie is one of the most popular hill stations located at a distance of 290 km from Delhi in the Dehradun district of Uttarakhand. With a backdrop of the Shivalik range of Himalayas and doon valley, Mussoorie, also known as Queen of The Hills, stands at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level. ...

Best Time: September to June

27. Pondicherry

27 out of 100 Places to visit in India 49 Tourist attractions

Pondicherry, officially known as Puducherry, and commonly referred to as just Pondy, is one of the seven Union Territories of India which is bounded by the southern state of Tamil Nadu. This former French colony is a perfect amalgamation of the traditional Indian sensibilities an...

28 out of 100 Places to visit in India 114 Tourist attractions

Mumbai, the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra, is a spectacular paradox of chaos and hope, glamour and squalor, modernity and tradition. Famously known as the City of Dreams, Mumbai – formerly known as Bombay - Mumbai is a beautifully blended melting pot of cultures and lifestyles.

Best Time: October to February

29. Lonavala

29 out of 100 Places to visit in India 41 Tourist attractions

Situated in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats close to Pune and Mumbai, Lonavala is the most visited hill station in Maharashtra and the place to be during monsoons. With lots of waterfalls, lakes and hills around, it is a popular destination for camping, trekking and other...

30. Varkala

30 out of 100 Places to visit in India 26 Tourist attractions

Varkala is a coastal town in the southern part of Kerala known for the unique 15m high 'Northern Cliff' adjacent to the Arabian Sea. Located approximately 50 kilometers north of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala, Varkala offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, s...

31. Dalhousie

31 out of 100 Places to visit in India 28 Tourist attractions

Dalhousie is a popular hill station spread out over five hills in Himachal Pradesh boasting views of the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar ranges. Famous for its meadows, dense forests, and waterfalls, it is especially a favourite amongst honeymooners and family vacationers.

32. Amarnath

32 out of 100 Places to visit in India 4 Tourist attractions

Amarnath, located in union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is one of the most important pilgrimage in India for the worshippers of Lord Shiva. The Amarnath cave has an enshrined Shivaling formed naturally with ice, which resembles Lord Shiva.

Best Time: May to September

33. Mount Abu

33 out of 100 Places to visit in India 21 Tourist attractions

The only hill station of Rajasthan, Mount Abu is located in the Aravali range. The most important attraction, however, are undoubtedly the Dilwara temples, which is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the country.  Travellers can enjoy calm and relaxed boating in N...

34. Wayanad

34 out of 100 Places to visit in India 35 Tourist attractions

Nestled in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Wayanad in Kerala is famous for its spice plantations and wildlife. Situated at an altitude ranging from 700 to 2100 meters above sea level, this picturesque region is blessed with verdant forests, mist-covered hills, and glistening waterfalls, making it ...

35. Pachmarhi

35 out of 100 Places to visit in India 18 Tourist attractions

Pachmarhi is the only hill station and is the highest point in Madhya Pradesh. Pachmarhi is also often known as "Satpura ki Rani" or the "Queen of the Satpura Range". Situated at an altitude of 1,067 metres, the picturesque town is a part of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to leopards ...

36. Bangalore

36 out of 100 Places to visit in India 104 Tourist attractions

Having evolved gradually from being the Garden city to the Silicon Valley of India, Bangalore is India's third-largest city. Bangalore is loved for its pleasant weather, beautiful parks and the many lakes here. Bangalore is renowned for its eateries, street food corners, quirky cafes, coffee ro...

37. Jodhpur

37 out of 100 Places to visit in India 43 Tourist attractions

Jodhpur is the second-largest city in Rajasthan and the former capital of the Marwar region. It is popularly called "the Blue City" as it looks completely blue from an aerial view because of its blue walls and houses. Jodhpur is primarily famous for its temples, lakes and snacks, with the ...

Best Time: November to February

38. Jaisalmer

38 out of 100 Places to visit in India 39 Tourist attractions

Jaisalmer, a mesmerizing destination nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, is a jewel in the crown of Rajasthan. Often referred to as the "Golden City," Jaisalmer captivates visitors with its sandstone architecture, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The city is adorned with...

39 out of 100 Places to visit in India 26 Tourist attractions

Ujjain, considered to be one of the holiest cities of India, is an ancient city situated on the eastern bank of the Shipra River in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh. Ujjain is one of the four sites for the Kumbh Mela, the largest peace-time gathering on the planet that attracts 100 million people ...

40. Hyderabad

40 out of 100 Places to visit in India 102 Tourist attractions

A city of contrasts, Hyderabad exudes an old-world charm of its own with the Old City (Charminar side), Hitech City (Cyberabad) and the other areas lying between the old and the new. The capital and the largest city of Telanaga, Hyderabad is home to stately mosques and noisy bazaars lined ...

Best Time: September to March

41. Khajuraho

41 out of 100 Places to visit in India 25 Tourist attractions

Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Madhya Pradesh, is known around the world for its stunning temples adorned by erotic and sensuous carvings. A small town located in the Bundelkhand region, Khajuraho is a brilliant example of Indian architecture and its culture back in the medi...

Best Time: July to March

42. Chennai

42 out of 100 Places to visit in India 91 Tourist attractions

Formerly known as Madras, Chennai is the capital city of the state of Tamil Nadu, in the southern part of India. Located on the Coromandel coast of Bay of Bengal, Chennai is as dynamic as it is immersed in tradition. This 'capital of the south', is one among the four metropolitan siblings of In...

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Golden State Warriors

Portland Trail Blazers

Gs @ por videos, stephen curry gets the and-1 to fall, regular season series, gs wins 4-0, game information.

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Stephen Curry has 22 points, Warriors rally to beat Trail Blazers 100-92

The Associated Press

April 12, 2024, 1:25 AM

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PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Stephen Curry had 22 points and the Golden State Warriors rallied down the stretch for a 100-92 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night.

Jonathan Kuminga added 19 points for the Warriors, who had a 16-1 run in the final quarter for their third straight win and ninth in the last 10 games. Golden State has already clinched a play-in spot but can potentially improve its playoff seeding in the final two games.

“You know they’re going to play hard and with a lot of energy and for the most part it worked for about 42 minutes, but we just got really disciplined down the stretch, had great point of attack defense,” Curry said. “We just competed and that last six minutes was hard-nosed basketball. That’s what it took to win.”

Deandre Ayton led Portland with 25 points and 11 rebounds. Scoot Henderson had 18 points and 12 assists. It was his eighth game this season with at least 10 assists, which leads all rookies.

The Trail Blazers, sitting in second-to-last in the Western Conference, have won just two of their last 15 games.

Neither team was able to lead by more than single digits through the first three quarters. Kris Murray made a 3-pointer that gave the Blazers an 85-79 lead with just more than nine minutes left. Curry’s 3 narrowed it for the Warriors.

Curry’s pullup jumper tied it at 86. Kevon Looney added a free throw before Curry made another 3 to make it 90-86 with 4:42 to go, and the Warriors led the rest of the way.

“Steph’s done that a million times so it never surprises you. Obviously, wasn’t his best shooting night but he made some big ones down the stretch,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “We played him more than we wanted but we got it done.”

With the victory the Warriors (45-35) surpassed their win total from last season, when they went to the conference semifinals.

“It’s a loaded conference. Everybody’s good,” Kerr said. “It’s just tough to make up ground.”

Golden State was coming off a 134-120 victory over the Lakers on Tuesday night. Klay Thompson scored 27 points and the Warriors made a season-high 26 3-pointers.

Thompson was unavailable against the Blazers because of right knee tendonitis. Draymond Green (right knee contusion) and Gary Payton II (left calf tightness) were also unavailable.

The Blazers (21-59) have been inundated all year by injuries and they sat several players as the season wound down. Among those on the bench were Anfernee Simons (right knee tendonitis) Jerami Grant (right hamstring strain) and Matisse Thybulle (right ankle).

Portland led 19-12 in the opening quarter, but overall it was close for most of the first half and Golden State took a 49-46 lead into the break.

It was back-and-forth throughout the third quarter. Ayton’s jumper from out front knotted the game at 54 for the Blazers, but Andrew Wiggins answered with a 3-pointer for Golden State.

The Blazers went up 64-62 on Henderson’s floater but the lead was short-lived and the Warriors led 75-74 going into the final period.

“They’re all going though the same maturation process,” Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said about his young players. “They’re playing their butts off, they’re playing hard as hell, they’re giving me everything they’ve got, which I love. And they’re tired as heck right now.”

Warriors: Host the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night, wrapping up Golden State’s league-high 17th back-to-back of the the season. The Warriors host Utah on Sunday to wrap up the regular season.

Trail Blazers: Host the Houston Rockets on Friday night before visiting the Kings on Sunday in the final game of the season.

AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US

From snowcapped mountains to tropical beaches, from some of the world’s most iconic cities to some of its most incredible deserts, from the east coast to the west, one thing is incredibly certain: there is absolutely no shortage of awe-inspiring, utterly diverse, and incredibly beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Our home country boasts one of the most incredible national park systems on the planet, along with a huge variety of cities, small towns, and other gorgeous places that ensure that a lifetime would not be long enough to see all of the best travel destinations in the USA.

… But that won’t stop us from trying to enjoy as many of the most amazing vacations in the United States as we can.

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to put together this giant USA bucket list, and definitely added a few new spots to our personal list of places to see in the US in the process!

From coast to coast, city to countryside, here are the best places to visit in the USA.

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

National parks + other beautiful places for a us vacation, beaches + islands for your usa bucket list, other beautiful places in the usa to visit.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

New York is one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the United States and even the world.

It truly is a city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives even if it’s just for a quick weekend in NYC !

The tall buildings are mesmerizing and awe-inspiring, it’s home to some of the most exquisite museums and galleries in the world, and New York City is brimming with so much to explore and see.

Plus, NYC is a foodie’s heaven with cuisines from all over the world.

… And, these are only a few of the many reasons to visit this magnificent city.

Some bucket-list-worthy things to do in New York City are to watch a play on Broadway, see the Statue of Liberty, hang out in Time Square, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and take a stroll around Central Park.

A few museums to visit are the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Guggenheim, and the American Museum of Natural History.

Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 5th Avenue, Empire State Building, and Chelsea Market are must-sees as well.

Whatever you decide to do in New York City , you’re in for a real treat!

This city will leave you feeling inspired and you’ll want to book another trip to come back!

Miami, Florida

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

Vibrant and colorful Miami is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the US.

The downtown area merges into wonderfully diverse neighborhoods from Little Havana to Coral Gables.

However, most visitors to the vibrant yet laid-back city head to its beaches located on a long stretch of a barrier island.

South Beach especially is where the glamor’s at, topped by stylish Ocean Drive, which is lined with elegant Art Deco houses including Versace’s mansion, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs… the scene is pretty lively there.

The beach itself features uniquely colored watchtowers spread around nice light sand. The waves are mostly mild. Pelicans like it here too and often float on the water near people.

Watching a sunrise on the beach belongs to one of the best experiences one can have in the area.

Miami City and its beaches can easily be visited  even without a car .

The public transport network and the ample ride/bike-sharing services make it an easy destination for any type of traveler.

San Diego, California

From Maria of San Diego Explorer

San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any USA bucket list.

Also known as America’s Finest City, San Diego has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts in San Diego , a fun time in the city, or a mix of both.

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego!

In Downtown San Diego, there is something for everyone: from eating delicious Italian fare in Little Italy to visiting the Midway Museum to strolling through Seaport Village, and having a fun night out in the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you love the outdoors and animals, visit Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.  

And then, there are the beaches: San Diego has some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Some of the most popular ones are Mission Beach, Coronado, and the beaches in La Jolla.

You can relax on the sand, take surfing lessons, or ride your bike along the boardwalk for a fun day on the beach.  

San Diego has so much to offer and is simply a fun city, no matter what you are in the mood for. 

Austin, Texas

The Live Music Capital of the World and capital of the state of Texas is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and offers a fantastic combination of excellent nightlife, plenty of outdoor activities and day trip opportunities, and truly phenomenal food.

Don’t leave without having at least one giant meal each worth of TexMex and barbecue!

While in Austin, be sure to visit trendy South Congress Avenue, watch the bats fly out from under the South Congress Bridge (if you’re visiting at the right time of year, that is), see a show, and go for a hike (or if it’s too hot, hit the lake!).

Want to get out of town?

Austin is within an easy day trip of natural swimming holes, Texas’ wine country, and adorable small towns.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Good food, good music, and good times: of all the best places to visit in the USA, NOLA definitely ranks toward the top of the list for places to go to simply have an amazing time.

There’s far more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, Bourbon Street, and beignets, though.

With a dark and complex history heavily impacted by slavery and a constantly evolving modern culture, New Orleans deserves more than just partying during your visit–though there’s plenty of time for that, too.

While in New Orleans, be sure to listen to some jazz, learn a bit about the city’s history, visit the famous Jackson Square, head to the Garden District, check out the beautiful oak trees in City Park, and–this is very important–eat your heart out.

NOLA is indisputably home to some of the best food in the country–so good, in fact, that the food alone would be a good enough reason to add New Orleans to your USA bucket list.

For those interested in New Orleans’ spooky legends, a ghost tour through the French Quarter at night is also worth adding to your to-do list!

Washington, DC

From Jordan of The Solo Life

One of the best travel destinations in the United States is the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

With everything from museums to monuments to the White House and Capitol Building, DC has something for everyone .

In addition, DC’s public transportation and numerous free attractions make it a surprising destination for the budget-friendly traveler.

Kid-friendly options include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery of Art or the Hirshhorn Museum for modern and contemporary art.

History buffs should check out the Library of Congress and the National Archives Museum.

Besides museums, the National Mall and Tidal Basin are must-visit locations to see the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, among others.

The best times to visit DC include early summer before it gets too hot or in the fall once summer break is over.

Although extremely crowded due to the Cherry Blossoms, springtime is also a gorgeous time to visit.

No matter what time of year, Washington, DC is one of the best destinations to visit in the US.

San Francisco, California

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of bucket lists for the United States.

And, with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco!

Visiting the Muir Woods is an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia has been one of the coolest US cities to visit for centuries, and–like Boston–it features strong ties to the American Revolution.

This is where the Declaration of Independence and the Consitution were signed, touring Independence Hall and visiting the nearby Liberty Bell are among the best things to do in Philadelphia today as a result!

You can’t miss Philly’s food scene when visiting, either–from whoopie pies to Philly cheesesteaks, the city has a (literal) flavor all its own.

Start–but don’t finish–exploring Philadelphia’s food scene at the historic Reading Terminal Market.

Be sure to also make time to visit some of Philadelphia’s incredible museums during your visit, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution (we loved this one), and touring the dark but fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also home to another essential stop in this iconic East Coast City: the Rocky Steps.

And, if you’re willing to work up a sweat, definitely consider running up them yourself during your classic American vacation in Philadelphia!

Chicago, Illinois

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, and also one of the most ethnically diverse.

Its skyline reflecting off the waters of Lake Michigan is a sight to behold.

No matter what your interests are, whether it’s music, shopping, culture, art, or dining, you could spend months exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

On a shorter USA vacation, though, you can still see quite a few of the best sights in Chicago!

The city’s top museums include the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Don’t forget to check out the many outdoor sculptures and other public works of art around the Loop, either.

A walk along the Magnificent Mile will take you past upscale department stores and through Millennium Park, home of the famous sculpture known as The Bean.

A visit to Bronzeville, also known as “the Black Metropolis”, is a must to learn about the city’s rich African-American history.

Architecture buffs will be interested to know that this is where Frank Lloyd Wright established the Prairie School architectural style. You can find some of his earliest buildings here in Chicago.

You’ll work up an appetite walking the streets of this massive city. This is a good thing, because the restaurant scene here is amazing!

You can find pretty much any cuisine you could imagine, from stylish Japanese to homestyle soul food, and there are even lots of vegetarian and  vegan restaurants in Chicago .

Houston, Texas

From Thanh of The Traveling Asian

Houston, Texas is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States, and while an unexpected vacation option, certainly one that will impress.

After all, it is the 4th largest city in the USA and is often ranked as the most diverse city in the country!

Because of this size, you can expect there to be all kinds of things for you to see and do here in this city.

One of the most iconic places you must visit in the city is Space Center Houston.

There you can learn about NASA and space travel as well as take a tour around the famous mission control center. If you love space, then this place is for you.

Houston is also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which is the biggest rodeo of its kind in the country.

There, you’ll be able to eat some delicious rodeo foods, pet some livestock, learn about animals, play at the amusement park, and even watch a concert by famous celebrities.

But aside from the attractions, Houston is known for its food. Since it is the most diverse city in the country, you can find just about everything available here in this city.

For instance, you can find Tex-Mex, Chinese, Ethiopian, Greek, and many other ethnic cuisines available all around the area.

So if you love food and all things fun, then Houston is definitely the place for you.

Las Vegas, Nevada

From Kimberley of Two Travelling Toques

If you’re looking for a cool place to visit in the USA, you can’t get much cooler than Las Vegas .

This well-known city has been depicted in numerous movies such as The Hangover and Ocean’s Thirteen as party central.

And if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it in Vegas.

Long known as both the wedding capital for a quick place to get married, or the perfect spot to hold a bachelor or bachelorette party, either way, it’s the spot to bring your friends, let loose, and have fun!

Gambling has been a big draw to Las Vegas since the early 1930s, and there is no shortage of showy and extravagant casinos to choose from.

Nightlife also takes center stage here.

From world-class musicians to top-notch magical acts, to dependable artists like Wayne Newton who have had a residency here for years. 

During the day, you can grab a fancy drink and chill by the pool. Or hit up one of the pool parties and listen to the headlining DJ.

Either way, be sure to bring lots of money for the high-end shops, ever-flowing drinks, and dazzling casinos looking to draw you in. 

Savannah, Georgia

Without a doubt, the small but stunning city of Savannah, Georgia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Featuring absolutely stunning architecture, 22 of its original 24 town squares, endless oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and some of the best food in the country, spending a few days in Savannah is bound to be a delight.

While you’re there, be sure to meander down beautiful Jones Street, check out Forsyth Park, hear some of the city’s most enduring legends on a ghost tour, enjoy views from River Street, and take in some of Savannah’s complex history at its various house museums and houses of worship.

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to eat!

While there are dozens of incredible  restaurants in Savannah , favorites include The Olde Pink House and The Grey for special occasions, The Collins Quarter for their legendary lavender mocha latte, and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream.

Have enough time for a quick  day trip ?

Tybee Island –also known as “Savannah’s Beach”–is less than a 30-minute drive away, and while you certainly won’t want to swim in the summer, strolling along the sand and climbing the lighthouse are a treat.

Los Angeles, California

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking for the coolest place to visit in the United States?

Visit Los Angeles; a unique combination of the entertainment industry, gorgeous beaches, great food, and vibrant nightlife.

It is certainly not the cheapest place in California , but for the right travelers, LA is definitely worth the price tag.

Los Angeles is a large city full of tourist attractions that won’t let you stay idle.

If you are a beach lover, LA won’t disappoint you with its stunning beaches that include Malibu, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, Hermosa Beach, and so on.

There are several fantastic museums in LA. LACMA is the most popular one for its diverse art collections and special exhibits.

Some other renowned museums are the Grammy Museum, Natural History Museum, and Museum of Broken Relationships.

While visiting LA, you will notice entertainment at every corner of the city. You can see a concert or enjoy a ride at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

If you rent a car in Los Angeles, go for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway that carves through the mountains of Malibu.

Los Angeles has some of the best restaurants in the US.

Once you are done with LA sightseeing, have lunch at any of these food spots – Diakokuya for ramen, Langer’s for a pastrami sandwich, Guisados for tacos, or pizza at Mozza.

Seattle, Washington

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the best USA travel destinations.

When visiting Seattle, be sure to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods?

Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside?

Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Charleston, South Carolina

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south.

Fantastic Lowcountry food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, and lots of history to uncover are wonderful to appreciate in both Charleston and Savannah –but Charleston absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

On your Charleston vacation, be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Garden, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

If you’d like to do some shopping while in Charleston, King Street is the place to go.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach and/or Sullivan’s Island!

Orlando, Florida

As the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is one of the most popular places to visit in the USA for both domestic and international visitors, mostly on behalf of one iconic mouse.

As home to Walt Disney World , Orlando is a must-see USA bucket list item for many families across the world, and with four amazing Disney parks packed with rides, experiences, and intense amounts of nostalgia, it’s no wonder why.

Disney isn’t the only theme park game in town, though!

Universal Studios Orlando, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is also a fantastic theme park to visit, and big roller coaster fans may even want to take a day trip to Tampa Bay to experience Busch Gardens.

Though the parks are a big draw for people visiting Orlando with kids and kids at heart alike, theme parks aren’t the only places to visit in and around Orlando.

The Kennedy Space Center, plenty of beaches, and even cool swimming holes like Wekiva Springs are within day-trip distance of Orlando.

Portland, Oregon

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw. 

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your USA bucket list!

Nashville, Tennessee

From Apryl of Southern Traveling Gal

No doubt about it, there’s something about Nashville, that casts a long-lasting spell on travelers.

For travelers visiting Nashville, it’s not unheard of to plan a return trip as soon as the current one is over!

Only in “The Music City” is it possible to catch the latest exhibit at the Frist Art Museum, see a replica of the Parthenon and enjoy live music at venues along the Honky Tonk Highway.

For first-timers, touring country music icons like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-do.

Don’t overlook artist-specific museums such as the Johnny Cash Museum and Glen Campbell Museum that provides a closer look at these music giants, either.

Much of Nashville’s allure lies within its distinctive neighborhoods, like the Gulch, filled with shops and restaurants.

It isn’t unusual to spot a long line or two here, typically featuring either people waiting in line to take a photo with the “What Lifts You” mural or getting into Biscuit Love.

Save some room for some barbecue from Peg Leg Porker!

12thSouth offers locally-owned boutiques, stores, and eateries. Also found here is Draper James, the flagship store of Reese Witherspoon’s clothing line.

Be sure to take home some cookies from Christie’s Cookie Company and snap a photo with the “I Believe in Nashville” mural.

Across the Cumberland River is the eclectic East Nashville. Don’t miss out on the mini doughnuts at Donut Distillery.

Depending on time, consider visiting Cheekwood Estates and Gardens, a 55-acre botanical garden, as part of your Nashville getaway.

Of course, no trip to Nashville is complete without hot chicken from Prince’s Hot Chicken or biscuits from Loveless Cafe, located near the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Boston, Massachusetts

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Boston is such a cool city to visit in the USA, rich in history, architecture, and food.

Along the waterfront, you can walk the 43-mile-long Harbor Walk.

But there is so much more to add to see during your trip to Boston, like the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path taking you to 16 significant places in American history.

It is well marked and technically be walked in as little as 90 minutes, though you can download the app and visit each place which will take at least a whole day to complete.

Boston is home to the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common, which is situated next to Boston Public Garden.

You can wander the parks and enjoy a ride in the Boston Public Garden’s historic paddleboats.

Nearby, you’ll find the Boston Public Library at Copley Square, which is an incredibly beautiful Renaissance Revival structure from 1895 that you should visit.

You’ll also find the beautiful neighborhood of Beacon Hill nearby, as well as the trendy neighborhood of Back Bay.

For the best views of the city during your Boston itinerary , visit the Skywalk Observatory.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States and one of the best places to visit in the entire country.

Known for its geothermal activity, more than half of the earth’s geysers are located in the national park which straddles the borders of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. 

Old Faithful is one of the most popular things to see in Yellowstone National Park .

The active and predictable geyser erupts approximately 20 times each day.

Visitors to the park gather around to watch the geyser blast hot water and steam into the sky.

Although quite impressive, Old Faithful is just one of many must-see geothermal features found in the park.

One of the largest hot springs in the world, the Grand Prismatic Spring, is another popular attraction in Yellowstone.

Visitors can get an up-close view of the spring or take a short hike for a stunning overview of Grand Prismatic’s vibrant colors.  

Beyond all of its geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park also boasts beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, rivers, and more than 200 species of animals.

Bison, deer, moose, wolves, and even bears live in the park.

Because of all the wildlife in Yellowstone, visitors are strongly encouraged to use caution when hiking or camping and to carry bear spray to protect themselves in the event of an encounter.

Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Idaho is often overlooked when it comes to cool places to visit in the US, but the tiny town of Stanley serves as the gateway to an abundance of outdoor adventures in the stunning Sawtooth Mountain range and along the swift Salmon River.

Although it has a population of less than 100, Stanley is easily accessible in a 3-hour drive from the main airport in Boise or about a 1-hour drive if you’re coming from Sun Valley.

The best way to explore the Sawtooth Mountains is on one of the many hiking trails.

The hike to Alice Lake is a perfect introduction to the area, and you can either do a 12-mile day hike or backpack the longer Alice/Toxaway Loop over the course of a few days.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll discover gorgeous views of Alice Lake framed by the “Dragon’s Back” peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, including Idaho’s own “El Capitan.”

For fun on the water, you can go fishing along the Salmon River or swim in Redfish Lake.

When you need some rejuvenation after your adventures, you can reward yourself with great food and drinks at the Stanley Supper Club and take a dip in the hot springs at the Mountain Village Resort.

Once you head home, you’ll surely find yourself raving to your friends about this hidden gem of a mountain town – unless you want to keep the Sawtooth Mountains and Stanley a secret for yourself!

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

The Oregon Coast is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the USA, but for those who love moody, dramatic scenery, it is the best place to be.

Although the actual coast isn’t very long (338 or so miles, about a 7.5-hour drive without stopping), it makes for a great weekend or longer trip with added stops.

Starting at the north end, about 2 hours outside of Portland, the city of Astoria will serve as your jumping-off point with picturesque bridges and locations from The Goonies.

Heading south, take a pitstop at the cheese capital of the state  –  Tillamook , Oregon.

Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and gorge yourself on all things dairy before continuing on to stunning Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.

The highlight of the coast will be Yachats, Oregon, with incredible farm-to-table restaurants that are dedicated to sourcing local sustainable fish, meat, and produce providers.

On the southern end of the coast, you can find sand dunes in Florence, and natural rock arches among the cliffs in Brookings.

If your tolerance for rain is low, summer will be the best season to visit weather-wise, while winter and spring will have smaller crowds and lower prices.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the eastern United States, perfectly showcasing the beauty of the Maine coast.

Acadia has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as easy coastal access for kayaking and sailing. 

When visiting, plan to spend at least  2 days in Acadia National Park  so you can make the most of your time there.

One of the best things to do includes watching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, where you’ll get stunning views of the islands that dot the coast.

Drive Park Loop Road to enjoy some of the park’s most famous attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond (don’t forget to stop for popovers at Jordan Pond House!).

For hiking, choose a paved Carriage Road to take you down to one of the many picturesque ponds and lakes in the park.

Plan your visit in the fall to see the famous New England fall foliage in full display, or in the summer to enjoy long, sunny days perfect for hiking.

If you love the outdoors, add Acadia to your list of places to visit in the US – you won’t be disappointed.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

From Monica of This Rare Earth

Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California is an incredible destination in the United States. 

This desert ecosystem became a national park as recently as 1994, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen!

The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert meet in the middle of Joshua Tree National Park, which means that you will see two very different landscapes depending on which half of the park you are in.  

The Mojave Desert is home to the famous Joshua Tree – a tall and spindly yucca – as well as giant boulders popular with climbers and hikers. 

The majority of the park’s hiking trails are found in this region.

However,  while planning your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary , it would be a mistake to skip the Colorado Desert at the southern end of the park.  

The Colorado Desert is hotter, lower in elevation, and flatter, but holds gorgeous landscapes full of cacti and, at the right time of year, wildflowers. 

 In the summer months, avoid strenuous hikes or leave early in the morning as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.

Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing and well outside the bright light of the city.  

Joshua Tree is roughly 2.5 hours outside of Los Angeles.

From Chris of Called to Wander

Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, evoking adventure for those looking to travel to a truly unique place.

Because the state is massive, at over twice the size of Texas, you could spend as much or as little time exploring it as you have.

Many people take cruises through the Inside Passage and make stops in places like Ketchikan, Haines, and Seward.

Others fly into the main cities of Anchorage or Fairbanks and then rent vehicles and head off on their own adventures.

By far the best way to make the most of an Alaska vacation (though it requires a steep time commitment) is by driving to Alaska and spending as much time as you’d like wandering from one place to the next.

You can drive to the Arctic Ocean along the Dalton Highway, view North America’s largest mountain (Mt. Denali), or observe wildlife like caribou, grizzly bear, and moose.

Or, catch a flight out to a handful of the most remote national parks, or drive up to and hike out to massive, ancient glaciers.

If you enjoy fishing, go after halibut in Homer or salmon in the famous Russian River.

Regardless of what kind of travel you prefer, Alaska offers adventure for everyone and should definitely be on your travel bucket list!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Dan of Cabin Critic

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in the US, hosting over 10 million annual visitors, and it definitely belongs on your bucket list for the USA.

Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, the park has diverse animal life, plants, and natural attractions. There are tons to do and see. 

If you are feeling adventurous you can go zoom down zip lines, go white water rafting, or go mountain biking. 

For a more relaxed trip, you can go on hikes, see beautiful waterfalls, or simply go for a scenic drive.

Cades Cove, for example, is a broad valley surrounded by mountains you can drive through that is well known for providing the best opportunities for seeing wildlife like white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and more.

When you aren’t enjoying the outdoors there are numerous mountain towns to enjoy like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Asheville .

Stay in  one of the cabins with a view  of the mountainsides and check out the local attractions like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville . 

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

From Michele of Adventures Abound

Just a 2-hour drive from both Portland and Seattle rest the foothills of the towering volcano Mount Rainier.

Known to the Indigenous since time immemorial, Mount Tahoma is covered in unimaginable beauty and can be enjoyed year-round. 

Visit in the summertime for hiking through meadows strewn with wildflowers of every color, and in the fall for ripening berries and a better chance to catch the trails and lakes free of ice and snowmelt on a variety of great day hikes just outside of Seattle .

To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent in an established campground, stay in a rustic lodge in the national park, or backpack along the Wonderland trail that circumvents the park.

Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?

Just driving through Mount Rainier National Park will afford endless views of waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and even the chance to spot wildlife. 

For those thrill-seekers looking for a more challenging adventure, apply for a permit to climb more than 8,000 feet to the summit, but be aware this is only for experienced mountaineers.

Mount Rainier National Park can also be enjoyed in the winter when the park sees an average of 55 feet of snowfall or more.

Head to the Crystal Mountain gondola to catch a great view of the peak while skiing and snowboarding down the slopes, or pick one of many great locations to snowshoe and backcountry ski along the mountain.

Whatever the choice for season and activity, Mount Rainier National Park is sure to be full of memories and adventure in one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States.

Arches National Park, Utah

Home to over 2,000 naturally-occurring sandstone arches, Arches National Park in Utah is one of the most uniquely beautiful places in the USA.

Whether you’re hiking to the incredible Delicate Arch (so iconic that it’s featured on Utah’s license plates), wandering through the Devil’s Garden, or taking one of the shorter hikes to visit some of the most impressive arches in the park, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Even one day in Arches National Park is well worth your time, but more would certainly be better.

Arches National Park is also home to internationally-recognized dark skies and some of the best stargazing in the United States–in order to see the best of the park, be sure to visit at least once after dark!

And, while Arches National Park is easily one of the best places to vacation in the US in its own right, the nearby town of Moab also makes an excellent launching pad to visit Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.

Olympic National Park, Washington

From Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel

Not only does Olympic National Park cover nearly a million acres, but it is also the most biodiverse of all the US national parks.

It has it all, from glaciated mountains to breathtaking coastlines, crashing waterfalls, ancient rainforests, enchanting hot springs, and plentiful wildlife.

With such a treasure trove of natural landscapes, Olympic National Park is easily one of the best places to visit in the US.

Mountain lovers should budget plenty of time to hike the trails of Hurricane Ridge.

Here you will discover stunning views above the clouds, as well as an abundance of wildlife.

A great way to explore the park is on foot, particularly as much of the park is roadless. There are numerous multi-day hikes to choose from and it’s popular with backpackers.

The 17.4 miles Hoh River Trail is one of the most impressive, taking you through a flourishing rainforest to the base of Mount Olympus.

For coastal visitors, Second Beach is one of the best Olympic Park photography  locations and a perfect spot for sunset. 

However, with 73 miles of wild coastline, there’s plenty to explore!

There are endless options for the waterfall, forest, and nature lovers too.

In Sol Duc forest you can watch crystal water plunge into the lush greenery.

Or, you can choose to explore the vibrant green mosses of the Hoh Rainforest.  

No matter which part of Olympic National Park you visit, you will not be disappointed.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Stretching over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon in northwest Arizona is one of the largest–and most impressive–canyons on the planet, and one of the most popular places to visit in the USA!

Come to Grand Canyon National Park to admire views from the rim, hike into the canyon , watch the sunrise and sunset, and perhaps even hike all the way down to the Colorado River.

If you do want to hike to the river, though, be warned: doing so is a 2-day commitment!

Anyone taking a southwest road trip in the USA should consider adding a visit to the majestic Grand Canyon to their list: it’s truly a sight that you’ll never forget.

Death Valley National Park, California

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best places to visit in California is Death Valley National Park .

This park is filled with bright white salt flats, mountains splashed with pastel colors, and eerie rocks that move on their own.

This park is such a strange yet unique environment which makes it perfect for avid photographers.

One of the best things to do is to watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point. The views are glorious as the sun slowly sets on the unique colorful mountains.

Afterward, make sure to hike the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop Hike. The trailhead is right next to Zabriskie Point.

Another popular activity is visiting Badwater Basin. The basin stands at 282 feet below sea level and is filled with white salt.

This is a great spot to take pictures of the salt in contrast with the tall, dark mountains in the distance.

Nearby the salt flats, you can visit the devil’s golf course where spikey salt formations cover the ground.

The next outstanding area to visit is the Artists Drive. The mountain is sprinkled with pastel colors like yellow, pink, purple, and green.

It truly is a spectacular thing to see!

Rocky Mountain National Park

From Jyoti of Story At Every Corner

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in the US.

It’s also easily reachable from Denver, Colorado, which has many flights from across the country, making it fairly simple to access and one of the most popular places to vacation in America!

The best place to stay is in Estes Park , a quaint little tourist town in the mountains.

There are many small towns all around the park and many choices for all price points. 

The easiest way to visit RMNP park is by car.

You can then enjoy the park by making stops at each vista point and taking hikes from there.

Most stops have short and long hikes; easy and challenging hikes.

There is a hike for everyone, but there is also spectacular scenery right at the vista points, even without a hike.

Keep in mind that the popularity of Rocky Mountain National Park means that certain places, like Bear Lake Road, must be accessed via reservation.

The most popular road that goes across the park is the scenic Trail Ridge Road.

If you don’t have time to visit anything else, I recommend driving Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park to the town of Grand Lake.

Other major attractions include Sprague Lake and Bear Lake, to the south of the trail ridge road.

They offer absolutely stunning views and many wildlife viewing opportunities along with the drives. 

There is so much to do around Denver that RMNP can be part of a week-long itinerary visiting Colorado  or a trip just for RMNP. 

Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains along the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.

With crystal-clear water and plenty of activities in and out of the water, from hiking to SUP to swimming, there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the otherworldly beauty of Lake Tahoe .

To enjoy the views of the lake itself, summer is definitely the best time to visit–but winter has its charms, too, including plenty of skiing and incredible views of the lake framed by bright white snow.

From romantic couples’ retreats to fun getaways to Lake Tahoe with kids , all kinds of travelers will find something to love about Lake Tahoe.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located on Havasupai tribal lands not far from the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is simultaneously one of the most famous waterfalls in the USA and one of the hardest to access.

In order to visit Havasu Falls, you’ll need to secure an extremely competitive permit (they sell out months in advance) and complete a 10-mile hike in each direction.

You’ll also need to spend the night nearby, as it’s one of the permit requirements set out by the Havasupai people.

If you manage to swing both the logistics and the hike, though, the rewards are pretty spectacular.

Zion National Park, Utah

Home to some of what are quite possibly the best hikes in the country, Utah’s most-visited national park is absolutely one of the best places to see in the US.

Test your fear of heights (if you have one, that is) by hiking the incredible Angel’s Landing, and be rewarded with stunning views of Zion Canyon.

Venture deep into the Virgin River by hiking The Narrows , a hike that takes place literally in the river!

Seek out incredible views along Observation Point, the Canyon Overlook Trail , and the Watchman Trail.

Try to score a permit to hike the Subway, but if you can’t get one, don’t worry: there’s more to see in Zion National Park than you can cover in one vacation.

No matter how you spend your days at Zion National Park, there’s no doubt that you’ll be experiencing something worthy of a bucket list!

Texas Bluebonnet Trail

California’s magnificent wildflowers may be a bit better known outside of the country, but Texas’ phenomenal spread of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes that decorate the countryside each spring absolutely belong on anyone’s USA bucket list.

Whether you choose to visit the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis (not far from Dallas) or head to the Texas Hill Country , there is no shortage of places to admire bluebonnets in Texas.

Though the blooming times can of course vary a bit depending on the weather, late March and early April are generally the best times to experience the beauty of Texas’ bluebonnets.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

From Emily of Em’s on the Road

If you’re looking for unforgettable outdoor experiences without the price tag of popular destinations out west, then the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the place for you.

One reason the Upper Peninsula (or U.P.) is really unique is that it is an ideal place for adventure seekers all year long. 

In the warmer months, the U.P is a great beach destination in the Midwest thanks to its location with beachfront on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron.

In the fall, pack your hiking boots and tackle rocky hiking trails for colorful views you’d never expect in the Midwest.

With an unobstructed panoramic view of Lake Superior, the hike up  Sugar Loaf mountain in Marquette, Michigan  is one of the most popular in the region.

Thanks to some serious snowfall, there’s so much to do in the U.P. in the winter months.

There are cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling trails, downhill skiing, dog sledding, ice climbing, and more. 

Redwood National Forest

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Most visitors to the Golden State put   California’s national parks at the top of their itineraries because they are just so spectacular.

Redwood National and State Parks, in the northern part of the state, offer you the chance to stroll among giant redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees on the planet.

A group of five parks, Redwood National and State Parks feature not just the towering redwoods, but also epic coastal views, beautiful prairies filled with wildflowers in season, and the chance to see birds and wildlife.

Enjoy some of the scenic drives in the parks: Howland Hill Drive, Coastal Drive, and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway are all great choices.

Do some of the trails through the redwood groves to see the giant trees up close: the Big Tree Wayside Walk, the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, and Lady Bird Johnson Grove are all super scenic and relatively easy walks.

Gaze up at the trees, and enjoy the ferns and rhododendrons in the understory.

You can also go biking in the parks, and camp if you plan to stay for a few days.

Redwood National and State Parks are about 5.5 hours north of San Francisco by road, and you can visit all year, although you will have the best weather in the summer.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

From Jase of Roaming Vegans

A little-known gem in the north of Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands.

This island archipelago on Lake Superior looks like it belongs in Southeast Asia – not on the shoreline of a humble midwestern town.

However, its tucked-away location makes it all the more special for visitors.

While the lake freezes in winter, the islands come to life in summer with many activities like  sea kayaking , island hopping, and cliff jumping.

There is even an island home to one of the largest concentrations of bears in the Midwest–yes, bears!

The largest and most populated island is Madeline Island which makes for a great base to explore the nearby smaller islands.

Maui, Hawaii

From Jessica of I’m Jess Traveling

Famed for her elegant beaches,  world-class resorts , and next-level surf, Maui attracts visitors from all over the world. 

It’s no surprise that Maui was named Condé Nast Traveler’s best island in the U.S. for 23 consecutive years. 

There are countless things to see and do in Maui depending on your travel style. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, hike through a majestic bamboo forest ending at a 400-foot waterfall.  

Ocean lovers can test their skills at surfing or set sail on a sunset cruise.

There won’t be a shortage of exotic beaches to explore, no matter what your travel style is.

The adventure seekers have their pick among plunging the popular Road to Hana or watching the sunrise above the clouds at 10,000 feet inside Haleakala National Park. 

Whatever your draw, sunsets, beaches, luxury, or adventure, Maui has it all. 

Not only is Maui one of the best USA travel destinations but it’s one of the best places to take a tropical vacation in the world. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For adorable beach towns, sandy beaches, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever eaten in your life, head to the classic New England summer getaway of Cape Cod.

While you’re in Cape Cod (or as New Englanders say, “on the Cape”), hit one of the beautiful trails, visit a lighthouse or two, stick your toes in the sand, and eat lots and lots of lobster.

While Cape Cod’s swimming season is much shorter than popular beach destinations elsewhere in the country, it’s still well worth visiting.

Just be sure to plan ahead, because rental houses for summer on the Cape tend to book up before winter even wraps up!

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

Towering cliffs covered in dense jungle, dramatic waterfalls, small valleys, and views of the Pacific Ocean far below: welcome to the Nā Pali   Coast.

Without a doubt, the Nā Pali   Coast on Kauai is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the US.

Stretching 17 miles along the northwest portion of Kauai, the Nā Pali   Coast is best admired from air–usually via a helicopter tour–or from a boat on the sea.

Whichever option you choose, there’s no doubt that what is arguably the most beautiful corner of The Garden Island is bound to impress.

Florida Keys

For a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the USA, head to the Florida Keys!

Not only is the overseas drive from Miami to Key West one of the most scenic road trips in the USA, but the Keys themselves are also fantastic, home to beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, great food, and plenty of things to do.

While you’re there, be sure to hit the water via snorkeling or scuba diving, go for a swim, enjoy the famous Duval Street, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, and eat several slices of the region’s famous Key Lime pie!

Big Island, Hawaii

From Patricia of Travel Fam Life

The biggest of the Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) is a cool place to visit.

That starts with the weather: you’ll experience a lot of sunshine temperatures ranging from 85°- 90° in the summer months and 79°- 83 in the winter months, making it the perfect place to escape year-round. 

Hawaii is going to impress anyone that decides to visit.

The food is phenomenal and the choices are vast with plenty of history and cultural backgrounds.

The array of activities ranges from land to sea, from memorable ancient sites to beautiful folklore traditions. 

Some of the best things to do when taking a vacation to the Big Island include:

Zip Lining over waterfalls is an activity that can be very exhilarating if you are an adrenaline junkie.

This can also be enjoyed as a family activity, some companies allow kids as young as 5 years old to participate.

Volcano National Park is a breathtaking experience with its majestic hikes, thrilling ride down to the Chain of Craters, and some spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.

Papakolea or Green Sand Beach is one of 4 green sand beaches in the world.

The hike to this remote beach is very worthwhile, and the backdrop of the Hawaiian blue ocean that keeps you company makes the whole experience priceless.

And the list goes on, you can check it out here .

Outer Banks, North Carolina

With sandy beaches framed by sand dunes and rolling waves, the Outer Banks of North Carolina may not boast the bright water of the Florida Keys or the tropical beauty of Hawaii, but they are stunning all the same, and absolutely one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Come for the small beach towns, the history of the Wright Brothers taking their first flight here, the southern food, the historic forts, and the beautiful lighthouses. 

Come for the sunken pirate ships, for the wild horses that live on some of the islands, for the great places to swim, and for the great day trip opportunities.

If you’re looking for a classic, all-American vacation, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that make up the magnificent Outer Banks.

Oahu, Hawaii

From Sydney of A World in Reach

While visitors sometimes think of Oahu as just being a stopping point before visiting Hawaii’s other islands, the island has so much to offer than overcrowded beaches and tourist attractions.

Oahu is home to delicious food, beautiful scenery, and captivating history and is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.

Most visitors to Oahu will base themselves in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and largest city.

Guidebooks often recommend spending little time in Honolulu; however, this city is a melting pot of culture and is home to some of the best food on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal or some of the best Asian food in the United States, you can easily find a delicious meal in Honolulu.

Start your visit to Oahu off by exploring Honolulu, seeing the sights, and eating all of the delicious food.

Spend a day at Waikiki Beach – it might be touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.

Plan a visit to Pearl Harbor, where you can learn more about one of the darkest days in US History, and spend a morning hiking Diamond Head, one of the best hikes on Oahu .

Spend the rest of your time on the island exploring the North Shore, visiting the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and indulging in shave ice from Matsumoto.

Visit the beaches along the North Shore, where you might see some surfers catching waves, and hike through a botanical garden to a beautiful waterfall at Waimea Valley.

Napa Valley, California

Northern California’s wine country is definitely among the most beautiful–and for wine lovers, tastiest, places to visit in the USA.

With beautiful small towns, great boutiques, and rolling hills filled with vineyards that almost feel like being in Tuscany, both Napa Valley and Sonoma County have plenty to offer those looking for a laid-back, wine-filled getaway.

Door County, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Wisconsin often isn’t the first US state that people think of visiting, but from beautiful beaches to quirky attractions like House on the Rock , it has plenty to offer.

One of the most beautiful USA landmarks, Door Country, Wisconsin welcomes you on board with 300 miles of stretched shoreline and an awestruck sunset over the water, you could not leave without a witness. 

It allows your soul to breathe and relax. Wisconsin lets you explore aesthetic art galleries, and thousands of miles of stretched orchards, cherish the local brews and wines, paddle along the beautiful lakes, and devour the cheery pies.

Moreover, Green Bay, the capital of the region, is an underrated city that eventually captivates its visitors.

Though it’s a small city, the vibrant culture offers amazing  things to do in Green Bay .

Green Bay entertains visitors with prominent wineries. They produce their wines right up there which adds up to be a vital part of their culture. The landscape and heritage inspire the artists.

Walleye fishermen have the best water. It’s clean and portrays immense beauty. The botanical gardens and zoological parks play their role in charming travelers. 

Green Bay is an enchanting place that charms visitors with its intriguing features. 

Route 66 isn’t technically just one place, but as one of the most iconic travel destinations in the United States, I couldn’t bear to leave it off this USA bucket list!

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is America’s best-known road trip and the perfect place to find not-quite-forgotten slices of Americana, from quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch and the Catoosa Whale to beloved diners and 50s-era-inspired motels.

Route 66 passes through nine states in total (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California), and is a fantastic way to experience some of the best of what traveling in the US has to offer, all in one large trip.

Big cities, small towns, incredibly diverse landscapes, and beloved national parks are all featured heavily on Route 66.

Though it’s not technically on the route, even the Grand Canyon is accessible as an incredible side journey when road-tripping Route 66.

Whether you want to find a quirky campsite in Oklahoma or go hiking in Arizona, there’s no doubt that Route 66 is a classic US travel destination.

Big Sur, California

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the US and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Cruising along the winding Pacific Coast Highway with sweeping views of the Pacific is a magical experience.

This rugged area is located in Central California, about 5 hours north of Los Angeles.

If you aren’t able to find available lodging within Big Sur, check out nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey for more options, or try car camping with an epic view!

There are plenty of amazing  things to do in Big Sur .

I definitely recommend checking out the iconic Bixby Bridge (as seen in HBO’s Big Little Lies), admiring McWay Falls, hiking in Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park, having a drink with a view at Nepenthe and watching the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach!

There’s not much cell service in Big Sur, so be prepared for an off-the-grid weekend of relaxation and gorgeous views.

Page, Arizona

The small town of Page, Arizona may seem like no more than a small town worthy of a brief stop on a road trip at first blush–but this small, unassuming town is home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire southwest, and it definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Page is where you can find the famous Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend , the Instagram darling of the Colorado River (for very good reason).

Just outside of Page, you can also find the remarkable Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US, as well as Lake Powell–but to see the best of Lake Powell, you’ll actually need to cross into Utah!

That’s not hard to do, though: Page is located right next to the Arizona/Utah border.

With such an outsized list of fun attractions, there’s no doubt that Page is one of the coolest places to vacation in the USA.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US”

Great info. I know its great because I have been to most of the beaches you mention!

Thank you – will also look at your Italian small towns to see which ones we should visit and maybe retire to.

Thank you so much, Laura!

Retiring to Italy–sounds like quite the dream! 🙂

Absolutely amazing article, just loved it.

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100 Best Places to Visit in the USA

From the breathtaking fjords of Alaska and the fertile wine-growing regions of California, to the white sunny beaches of Florida and the bizarre rock formations of Utah, the United States offers some of the most diverse landscapes on Earth.

With over 79.6 million tourists in 2018, it is the third most visited country in the world after France and Spain.

Whether by the ocean or in the heart of the desert, American cities are among the most exciting in the world.

Known for their architecture and modern engineering facilities, they are a complex mix of different cultures and lifestyles.

Although there are thousands of places worth visiting in this vast country, we suggest you take a look at 100 of the most iconic of them:

100. Joshua Tree National Park (CA)

Joshua Tree National Park is a deserted territory, located in the southernmost part of Mojave Desert, in Southern California.

Established on October 31, 1994, it has a total area of 790,636 acres (3,199.6 km²).

The park is named after a local species of tree, which is known as Joshua Tree or Yucca brevifolia and is quite common in the area.

The tree is well-known for its unusual appearance as well as for its resistance to prolonged periods of severe droughts and high temperatures.

The national park is easy to reach as it is located only 136 miles from Downtown Los Angeles.

99. White Sands National Monument (NM)

Established on January 18, 1933, White Sands National Monument is a protected territory, which is located in Southern New Mexico, approximately 60 miles north of the Mexican border.

It covers a total area of 145,762 acres (589.88 km²) and welcomes about 600,000 visitors per year.

It is known for its extremely white soft sands.

Since it is located in quite a hot and dry deserted area, you can expect high temperatures for most of the year.

For this reason, the best time to visit White Sands National Monument is late autumn (November and December) and early spring (March and April).

On December 20, 2019, the national monument was declared a national park.

98. Aspen (CO)

Aspen is the most popular mountain tourist town in the U.S.

It is located in the Rocky Mountains, in Central Colorado.

It lies in a glacial valley, approximately 8,000 feet (2,400 m) above sea level.

The area enjoys a rare combination between heavy snowfalls and sunny clear days for most of the year, which attracts hundreds of thousands of winter sports lovers from across the country.

The city welcomes more than 1.5 million visitors per year, including a number of celebrities.

Dozens of cultural events, including music and film festivals, are held every year in Aspen, most of them during the summer season.

97. Death Valley (CA)

Death Valley National Monument was established on February 11, 1933.

Located in Southern California, not far from the Nevada border, it is known as one of the hottest and most inhospitable places in the world.

On July 10, 1913, it was measured 134°F (56.7°C), which is the second highest temperature on Earth ever.

The valley is known for its beautiful and unique landscape as well as for its sailing stones.

Since summers are unbearably hot, the best time to visit the Death Valley is the winter season between October and May.

Even in January the average daytime temperature is between 64 and 68°F (between 18 and 20°C).

96. Grand Canyon National Park (AZ)

Located in Northern Arizona, the Grand Canyon was formed approximately 5 or 6 million years ago.

It falls within Grand Canyon National Park, which was established on February 26, 1919.

The national park covers a territory of approximately 1,217,262 acres (4,926.08 km 2 ) and was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1979.

The maximum depth of the canyon is 6000.7 feet (or 1829 meters).

Since summers and winters are quite harsh, the best time to visit the national park is spring and autumn, which bring the most pleasant temperatures over the year.

95. Dry Tortugas National Park (FL)

Florida is often described as being a true paradise for people and wildlife, and Dry Tortugas National Park is a perfect example of that.

Established on January 4th, 1935, it includes seven islands and an impressive unfinished brick fortress, called Fort Jefferson.

The islands are situated amidst turquoise waters and are known for their white sands and well-preserved shallow coral reefs.

The natural beauty of the islands, in combination with their year-round warm tropical climate, attracts tens of thousands of visitors per year.

The national park is located approximately 68 miles west of Key West, Florida.

94. Cape Cod (MA)

Cape Cod is a 60-mile long L-shaped peninsula in Eastern Massachusetts, New England.

It is known for its scenic little towns and traditional villages as well as for its fantastic golden beaches.

Cape Cod National Seashore is the main tourist attraction in the area.

It is a protected territory, which covers approximately 40 miles of fabulous beaches, grasslands and ponds along the Atlantic coast.

Established on August 7, 1961, the area is very attractive during the summer months.

Another landmark are the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, which are located right next to the south of Cape Cod.

They are quite popular from the 1975 American thriller movie “Jaws”.

93. Waikiki Beach (HI)

Hawaii is well-known for its fabulous beaches and Waikiki is one of them.

It is considered the most beautiful man-made beach in the world.

It offers a 2 miles long stretch of soft golden sand and shallow turquoise waters.

Because of the incredibly good underwater visibility and shallow reefs, Waikiki attracts divers and snorkelers from around the world.

The weather is perfect, no matter the season.

The coldest months along the southern shore of Oahu are January and February with daytime temperatures of around 80.1°F (26.7°C) and the warmest is August with up to 88.7°F (31.5°C).

92. Monument Valley (AZ, UT)

Often mentioned as a national park, Monument Valley is actually a territory which entirely falls within the Navajo Nation.

It covers a significant area in Northern Arizona and Southern Utah.

The most iconic part of Monument Valley is Hunts Mesa.

It is known for its 984 feet (almost 300 meters) tall red-colored rock formations.

Shaped by millions of years of erosion, they dominate the surrounding landscape.

The area is one of the most highly recommended tourist attractions in the United States.

You should know in advance, however, that you can visit this place only by guided tour.

91. Emerald Coast (FL)

Approximately 100 miles (161 km) long, the Emerald Coast offers the most irresistible beaches along the shore of the continental United States.

It stretches through 5 counties in Northwestern Florida and includes cities such as Destin, Niceville, Panama City Beach and Mexico Beach.

It is known for its extraordinary white soft sands and warm emerald waters.

Since it is located on the Gulf of Mexico, the best time of the year to visit the Emerald Coast is April (74°F/23°C), May (82°F/28°C) and October (79°F/26°C).

90. The Capitol Building (Washington, D.C.)

The Capitol Building, officially known as the United States Capitol, is located in Capitol Hill, which is one of the most beautiful historic neighbourhoods of Washington, D.C.

The construction started on September 18, 1793, and completed in 1800.

The name “Capitol” comes from Latin and was an idea of Thomas Jefferson.

The building was partially burned during the War of 1812 (an armed conflict between the United States and the United Kingdom of Great Britain) and was completely restored by 1819.

89. Denali National Park (AK)

Established on February 26, 1917, Denali National Park covers a territory of approximately 4,740,911 acres (19,185.79 km 2 ) in the central part of Southern Alaska.

It welcomes more than half a million visitors per year, most of which coming during the summer months.

The northwestern part of the park is dominated by dense pine forests, deep rivers and wonderful glacial lakes, while the southeastern half is mostly occupied by the Alaska Range.

The highest peak in North America, Denali, is located in the heart of the national park.

Also known as Mount McKinley, it is 20,310 feet (6,190.5 meters) high and is covered in permanent snow and ice.

It is considered one of the most isolated mountains on Earth.

The best time of the year to visit Denali National Park is in July.

It brings mild weather with temperatures of 57°F (nearly 14°C) and plenty of sunshine.

88. Disneyland (CA)

Opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland Park in California is considered the most popular amusement park in the world.

It is located in Anaheim, Los Angeles and attracts approximately 18.6 million visitors per year (as of 2018).

Initially created as a park mainly for children, Disneyland Resort (as it is officially called today) is even more attractive to adults.

It is known for its roller coasters, carousels, Ferris wheels, magical castles and famous fairy tales and cartoon characters, which create a really magical atmosphere.

87. Las Vegas Strip (NV)

Also known as the “Entertainment Capital of the World”, Las Vegas was established on May 15, 1905.

As of January 1, 2020, there are 222 casinos in the entire county.

More than 50 of them are concentrated along the “Strip”, which is the nickname of the main central boulevard of the city and the biggest tourist attraction in Nevada.

The “Strip”, whose official name is Las Vegas Boulevard, is known for its hundreds of thousands of LED lights, so the best time of the day to come here is after sunset.

Full of restaurants, hotels and gambling halls, the street is always busy and crowded with tourists after dark, especially on public holidays and on weekends.

86. Three Pools (OR)

Established on September 30, 1996, the Willamette National Forest is known for some of the most irresistible swimming holes in America.

Hidden deep in the dense Duglas fir forests of Opal Creek Wilderness in Oregon, the Santiam River is a small and crystal clear mountain river, which offers a few wonderful small natural pools with emerald waters.

Every summer they attract thousands of visitors.

Located on the North Fork of the river, Three Pools are quite cold even in summer with temperatures of between 45°F and 55°F (between 7°C and 13°C).

85. Antelope Canyon (AZ)

Located less than 5 miles southeast of Page, Northern Arizona, Antelope Canyon is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in the United States.

It is about 120 feet (37 meters) deep and consists of two parts Upper and Lower Canyon.

Since it falls within the Navajo Nation, you need a special permission to go there, and you can visit the area only as part of a tourist group.

As the canyon is very narrow and deep, it is considered very difficult to take a really good picture of it.

84. Alcatraz Island (CA)

Surrounded by the cold waters and powerful ocean currents of San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Island was listed into the U.S. National Register of Historical Places in 1986.

The main tourist attraction on the island is, of course, the building of the prison, which served as a maximum security federal prison between August 11, 1934, and March 21, 1963.

For the 29 years of operation, the prison gained the reputation of being the toughest prison in the United States.

Nowadays, the building of the prison serves as a museum and attracts more than 1.5 million visitors per year.

83. Walk of Fame (CA)

Located in Hollywood, the Walk of Fame is an extraordinary place.

Established on February 8, 1960, it covers a few blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Boulevard.

It is known for its ceramic tiles, traditionally designed in a black-and-coral color.

Every single star is decorated with the name of a celebrity from the world of show business.

Because of its cultural and tourist importance, on July 5, 1978, the Walk of Fame was declared a Historic-Cultural Monument.

82. Mammoth Cave National Park (KY)

Located in the dense forests of Central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave is the largest cave system on Earth.

Its galeries reach the incredible length of 400 miles, only a small part of which can be explored by tourists.

It falls within Mammoth Cave National Park, which covers a total area of 52,830 acres (213.8 km²) and was established on July 1, 1941.

In 1981 the cave was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is known for its impressive variety of rare species of animals, including a few species of bats.

81. Arches National Park (UT)

Located in the eastern part of Utah, Arches National Park is a popular tourist destination.

First established as a national monument on April 12, 1929, today it welcomes almost 1.7 million visitors per year.

It is known for its eroded rocks which form incredible natural bridges and arches in saturated red and orange colors.

Most of the rock formations are approximately 65 million years old.

They are scattered all over the national park, which covers a total area of 76,679 acres (310.31 km²).

The best time to visit the arches is late spring and early autumn.

80. Niagara Falls (NY)

Located right on the border between the United States (New York) and Canada (Ontario), Niagara Falls is considered one of the most beautiful and famous waterfalls in the world.

Declared a state park in 1885, nowadays it welcomes more than 9.5 million visitors.

The waterfall consists of three drops and is 167 feet (51 meters) tall.

Being the oldest state park in the United States, it was added to the National Register of Historical Places on October 15, 1966.

The waterfall serves as an important source of fresh water and hydroelectric power.

79. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis (MO)

Situated in a very beautiful park on the west bank of the Mississippi River, the 630 feet (192 meters) Gateway Arch is one of the main attractions of St. Louis, Missouri.

It plays a symbolic role because the city has always been considered a door between the Eastern and the Western United States.

The construction started in 1963 and completed in 1968, 5 years later.

Being the tallest monument in the world, the arch attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors per year.

78. Key West (FL)

Key West is a small and beautiful island in the western part of the archipelago of Florida Keys, in Southern Florida.

It is considered the most interesting of all islands in the chain because of its historical downtown and wonderful colonial architecture.

From 1931 to 1939 in one of the old houses (now museum) lived the writer Ernest Hemingway, the author of the famous novel “The Old Man and the Sea”.

Key West is known also for its wonderful year round warm tropical climate and coral reefs.

The best time of the year to visit this lovely place is between October and April.

77. Glacier National Park (MT)

Glacier National Park is located in an isolated and remote area in Northwestern Montana, right next to the Canada border.

The first thing you see when you visit this place for the first time is its out of this world natural beauty.

You feel like you are in the most secluded place on Earth and this is partially true.

There are no big cities in a radius of 150 miles, and the closest one is actually Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta.

The national park is dominated by rugged mountain ridges, glacial lakes, dense pine forests and crystal clear mountain rivers.

The park covers an area of 1,013,322 acres (4,100.77 km²) and is a dream come true for experienced hikers.

In 1995, Glacier National Park was inscribed in the UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

76. Museum of Modern Art – MoMA (NY)

Established in 1929, the Museum of Modern Art “MoMA” is one of the most popular and visited contemporary art museums in the world.

Located on West 53rd Street in Manhattan, it is housed in an old but modern-looking building.

Here you can see a great variety of inspiring exhibitions as well as world famous works of Monet, Dali and Picasso.

75. Havasu Creek (AZ)

Located within Grand Canyon National Park, Northern Arizona, Havasu Creek is a tributary of the Colorado River and is known for its wonderful series of 6 large and a number of smaller waterfalls.

They are situated within a walking distance of each other.

Beaver Falls and Mooney Falls are the most famous of them.

Mooney is 100 feet tall (almost 30 meters) and is very impressive.

Beaver Falls is very different, unique and extraordinary looking.

It is known for its wonderful natural pools, irresistible for their turquoise color.

It reminds of a wonderful staircase of small drops.

The best time to visit Havasu Creek is spring and autumn.

74. Art Deco Historic District, Miami Beach (FL)

The Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach is one of the most recognizable and popular spots in Florida.

It covers approximately 5,750 acres (2,330 ha) in the southern part of Miami Beach and is known for its bright and colorful buildings.

Most of them date from the period between the late 1920s and early 1940s.

On May 14, 1979, the district was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The main attraction in the area is the famous thoroughfare Ocean Drive where most of the hotels and restaurants are.

73. Mount Rainier National Park (WA)

Mount Rainier National Park was established on March 2, 1899, and is one of the oldest protected territories in the United States.

Located in the Cascades of Central Washington, the park covers an area of approximately 236,381 acres (956.60 km²).

It is known for its old-growth untouched rainforests as well as for its variety of wild animals, including black bears, grizzly bears, mountain lions, wolves, bobcats, marmots, elks, bald eagles and many others.

Here you can find wonderful tourist trails, and the best time to visit the park is in summer, especially in July and August.

72. The Glass Beaches of Fort Bragg (CA)

Every year tens of thousands of people visit one of the most extraordinary places in California.

It comes to a group of three small beaches on the coast of the city of Fort Bragg, in the northern part of the state.

Between 1906 and 1967, they served as dump sites and were used for disposal of glass, metal and other waste materials.

After decades of attempts by people and organizations to clean the beach, today you can see only the smallest pieces of glass on the shore.

They were perfectly polished by the waves and now the beaches are covered not with pebbles but with small jewelry-looking pieces of glass.

71. Gulf State Park (AL)

The beaches of Alabama have always been underrated but they actually are among the most beautiful in North America.

Established in 1939, Gulf State Park is a very good example.

It covers 6,500 acres (26 km 2 ) along the coast, west of Gulf Shores.

The area offers approximately 2.5 miles of extraordinarily white sands and emerald waters.

The climate in the area is very warm, so you can swim into the gulf between early April and late October.

With temperatures between 59 and 68°F (or between 15 and 20°C), the weather during the winter season is perfect for long walks.

Don’t miss to visit and explore the city of Gulf Shores.

Along the coast you can see very beautiful traditional beach houses, built on pillars directly on the sand.

They are one of the tourist attractions here.

Another popular landmark is the saltwater lagoon, where you can see sometimes even small alligators.

70. Cannon Beach (OR)

Cannon Beach is a small but very popular tourist city.

It lies on the northern coast of Oregon and is easily recognizable because of the emblematic coastal Haystack Rock, rising up approximately 235 feet (72 meters) above sea surface.

The city is well-known from the movies “The Goonies” /1985/ and “Point Break” /1991/ and is popular with people from across the country because of its annual sandcastle contest.

69. Space Needle (WA)

The Space Needle is an important tourist attraction and an observation tower in the heart of Seattle, Washington.

Completed on December 8, 1961, it is 604 feet (184 meters) tall and reveals the most spectacular 360-degree city panorama on the West Coast.

If you want to enjoy the best experience, you should visit the Space Needle at dusk when the combination of city lights and natural light is just breathtaking.

68. Savannah (GA)

Without doubt Savannah is the most recommended historical city to visit on the East Coast of the United States.

Established in 1733, it is known for its long and rich history and lavish colonial architecture.

After being established, the city flourished rapidly because of its warm humid climate and very rich soils, which appeared to be the perfect combination for cotton production.

Today Savannah is an important tourist center with numerous bars, restaurants and hotels.

If you want to feel the spirit of the past, don’t miss to visit the Wormsloe Historic Site, also known as Wormsloe Plantation.

It is known for its 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long rural avenue, shaded by hundreds of beautiful oak trees.

67. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (HI)

Established on August 1, 1916, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is really worth a visit.

It covers an area of 323,431 acres (1,308.88 km 2 ) in the southern and southeastern part of Hawaii.

If you want to get a better idea of what it really looks like, the best option is to book a helicopter flight over the island.

The main attractions are Kilauea (the most active volcano on Earth) and Mauna Loa (the largest volcano on the planet).

In 1978 Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

66. Atlantic City (NJ)

Established on May 1, 1854, Atlantic City is the most popular tourist city in the Northeast of the United States.

It is situated on the Atlantic shore, in the southeastern part of New Jersey.

Being only 98 miles away from New York, it attracts a number of visitors during the weekends and on public holidays.

Atlantic City is known for its 4 miles long stretch of golden sand as well as for its lively boardwalk with numerous bars, restaurants, casinos and shops.

65. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis (MO)

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis was constructed between 1907 and 1914.

It is 227 feet (69 meters) tall and is the most important landmark in the city of Saint Louis.

It combines two very different architectural styles – Neo-Byzantine and Romanesque Revival.

The cathedral is very popular for its wonderful mosaics, which consist of the incredible 41.5 million pieces of glass tiles.

64. Flatiron Building (NY)

You will find one of the most remarkable buildings in New York on 5th Avenue and Broadway in Manhattan.

Completed in 1902, the Flatiron serves as an office building and is well-known for its beautiful Renaissance Revival style architecture.

What makes one of the oldest skyscrapers unique and memorable, however, is its wedge-shaped structure.

The elegant skyscraper is 285 feet (86.9 meter) tall, and upon its completion, it was one of the most high-rise buildings in the United States.

63. Hollywood (CA)

Hollywood is a neighbourhood in the northern part of central Los Angeles and one of the most popular places in the world.

Being too noisy, crowded and expensive, it is definitely not to everyone’s taste.

At the same time, it is really iconic and acts as a magnet for people.

Established in 1886 as a ranch, today is the epicenter of show business and film industry.

Most of the major film studios are located here.

Some of the most popular museums in the city, such as Madame Tussauds and Hollywood Museum, are located in this part of LA too.

Not to mention the emblematic Hollywood Sign, created in 1923 and designated a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument on February 7, 1973.

The best time to visit Hollywood is spring and autumn.

62. Empire State Building (NY)

With its 1,224 feet (373.1 meters) to the top floor and 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) to the tip, Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world until 1970.

The construction of the Art Deco skyscraper located on 350 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan started on March 17, 1930, and completed on April 11, 1931, one year later.

Being an icon of modern architecture, the 102-floor building is visible from different parts of the city.

It dominates the skyline of Manhattan and attracts more than 4 million visitors per year.

On November 17, 1982, Empire State Building was added to the U.S. Register of Historical Places, and on June 24, 1986, was declared a National Historical Landmark.

61. Graceland Mansion (TN)

Graceland is a Colonial Revival style mansion, built in 1939 in Tennessee.

On March 19, 1957, Elvis Presley bought the property in the outskirts of Memphis and moved there.

He lived in the mansion with his family until his death on August 16, 1977.

The real estate covers a total area of 13.8 acres (5.6 hectares).

At the time when Elvis purchased the mansion, it was a few miles south of the city itself and was surrounded by a romantic rural landscape.

60. Hamilton Pool Preserve (TX)

Hamilton Pool is part of the Hamilton Pool Preserve, which covers a total area of approximately 232 acres (0.94 km 2 ).

The protected territory is located nearly 20 miles west of Austin and in summer attracts thousands of sunbathers and swimmers.

Hamilton Pool is known for its reputation of being the most beautiful and also the most extraordinary swimming hole in the United States.

It was formed thousands of years ago when the sandstone ceiling of a cave collapsed as a result of erosion.

Nowadays, the huge hole in the rock reveals a very beautiful underground river.

The natural pool is additionally “decorated” with a beautiful 49 feet (almost 15 meters) tall waterfall, which in summer usually disappears completely.

The emerald pool is 25 feet deep (about 7.62 meters), and the water is only about 50°F (10°C).

There is a small and cozy beach in one of the corners.

59. Mount Rushmore (SD)

Completed in 1941, Mount Rushmore National Monument is located in Black Hills, not far from Keystone, South Dakota.

It depicts the U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

It took the workers more than 14 years to carve the 60-foot (more than 18 meters) sculptures into the granite rock.

Nowadays, the monument attracts approximately 2.5 million visitors per year.

58. Oneonta Gorge (OR)

The Oneonta Gorge is a unique habitat of rare species of animals and plants.

It is located in the Columbia River Gorge and is well-known for its dramatic landscape.

The narrow canyon is considered to be approximately 25 million years old.

Being one of the most interesting hiking spots on the West Coast of the United States, the gorge offers some really scenic waterfalls to enjoy.

June and especially July are the best months to visit Oneonta Gorge, although it offers very good weather conditions until the end of September.

57. Field Museum of Natural History (IL)

Established in 1893, Field Museum of Natural History is one of the most recommended to visit in the United States and in the world.

Located on 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, it is known for its amazing collection, which attracts more than 1.6 million visitors per year.

Probably the most interesting exhibit is Sue, the largest and most complete skeleton of Tyrannosaurus rex ever found.

The skeleton was discovered on August 12, 1990 in South Dakota.

56. La Jolla Beach (CA)

With its natural beauty and charm, La Jolla Beach is one of the top destinations of San Diego and is considered one of the most recommended beaches in California.

Approximately 1 mile long, it offers a superb stretch of soft white sand and definitely smaller waves in comparison with other parts of California.

If you want to swim into the ocean, you should know that the Pacific along the coast of California is usually cold for most of the year.

With temperatures reaching up to 72°F (around 22°C), however, September is the best time to take a dip in the water.

55. Zion National Park (UT)

Zion National Park covers an area of 146,597 acres (593.26 km 2 ) in Southwestern Utah.

It was established on November 19, 1919.

The area is dominated by the huge Zion Canyon.

Being approximately 2000 feet (almost 610 meters) deep, it is the second deepest canyon in the United States.

Its formation started approximately 150 million years ago.

However, the current shape of the canyon was acquired about 1.1 million years ago.

March, April and October are considered the best months to visit the area.

54. The Statue of Liberty (NY)

Officially dedicated on October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty is one of the symbols of New York and one of the most famous sculptures on Earth.

It is located on Liberty Island at the entrance of the Port of New York and New Jersey.

The huge neoclassical copper monument is 151 feet (46 meters) tall but together with the pedestal, it rises 305 feet (93 meters) above the ground.

Designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel, the sculpture is a symbol of freedom and is a gift from France to the United States to commemorate the friendship between the nations.

On October 15, 1924, the statue was declared a National Monument.

In 1984, it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

53. The White House (Washington, D.C.)

The White House is one of the most iconic buildings in the United States.

It is located on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Its construction started in 1792 and completed in 1800, eight years later.

It was designed by the talented Irish architect James Hoban.

The building is a mixture between Neoclassical and Palladian architecture.

It is known for its wonderful gardens and fountains.

The first residents of the White House were President John Adams and his family.

52. Apostle Islands (WI)

The Apostle Islands is an archipelago of 22 sparsely populated islands, located in Lake Superior, in the northernmost part of Wisconsin.

They are known for their beautiful lighthouses, pristine beaches, ancient forests, unique ecosystem and rich biodiversity.

The most famous of all the islands in the area is Devils Island, which is one of the smallest and one of the most isolated as well.

It is quite popular for its sea caves along its northern shore.

The islands fall within the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which is a protected territory, established on September 26, 1970.

As the climate in Northern Wisconsin is quite cold for most of the year, the best time to visit this place is the summer season, from early June till late August.

51. Mesa Verde National Park (CO)

Located in Southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park was established in 1906.

It covers 52,485 acres (212.40 km 2 ) and is considered the largest archaeological preserve on the territory of the United States.

It protects more than 500 archaeological sites within its borders, the most popular of which definitely is the Cliff Palace.

The national park welcomes more than half a million visitors per year.

In 1978, the park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

50. Beverly Hills (CA)

Beverly Hills is one the most expensive cities in the world (yes, Beverly Hills is not a neighbourhood but a city!).

Apart from its multi million dollar villas and mansions, the community in northern Los Angeles is a luxury tourist destination which has a lot to offer.

It is a real paradise for shopping and having fun.

One of the top attractions is Rodeo Drive, which is considered to be the most prestigious shopping street in the world.

Another place not to be missed is the Greystone Mansion and Gardens, which serves as a prestigious background of various cultural and social events, Hollywood productions and many others.

49. The Pentagon (VA)

The Pentagon is situated on the west bank of the Potomac River in Washington.

It is considered to be not only the largest office building but also one of the largest buildings ever built in the world.

The structure consists of 5 floors and is 71 feet (21 meters) high.

Its floor area is the amazing 6,636,360 square feet (620,000 m 2 )!

As you can see, the name comes from the shape of the building.

48. Washington Monument (Washington, DC)

The Washington Monument was completed in 1884.

It is located in the heart of a beautiful park and is one of the biggest landmarks in the U.S.

Being 555 feet high, it was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion and is still the biggest marble monument on the planet.

The obelisk is surrounded by 50 US flags, one for each state.

47. Central Park (NY)

With a length of 2.58 miles (4.15 km) and perfectly rectangular shape, Central Park is definitely one of the most famous urban parks in the world.

Often referred to as “the Lungs of New York”, the huge green space in the heart of the city is exactly what its residents need.

Here you can enjoy a number of outdoor activities, including walking, jogging, cycling, golf or just a relaxing picnic under the pleasant shade of the trees.

Officially, the park was established on May 23, 1963.

46. Mono Lake (CA)

Mono Lake is located in the eastern central parts of California, not far from the Nevada border.

Situated at more than 6,365 feet (nearly 1,940 meters) above sea level, the lake is slowly drying up.

Since the early 40es, it has been serving as one of the main supplies of freshwater for Los Angeles, which is the second largest city in the U.S. after New York.

The lake itself is very beautiful and is well-known for its dramatic colors, especially during the golden hour before sunset.

In the middle of the lake there is a large island, called Paoha.

45. Wailea Beach (HI)

Wailea Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Magnificent and romantic, it is located on the west coast of Maui.

Because of its golden shades and fine soft texture, it is a favourite place for honeymooners and holidaymakers.

Right next to the beach you can enjoy the tempting shade of coconut palms and other tropical species of trees.

44. Fairmount Park (PA)

With its 2,052 acres (830 ha), Fairmount Park is considered the largest urban green space in the United States.

It is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and consists of two sections – East Park and West Park.

Being much bigger even than the popular Central Park in New York, it offers a number of opportunities to spend your time outside.

Developed along the banks of Schuylkill River, the historical park offers hundreds of shady paths and trails to explore, a lovely Japanese-style garden, wonderful small ponds and fountains.

43. Isle Royale National Park (MI)

Located in Lake Superior near the United States – Canada border, Isle Royale covers an area 206.73 sq mi (535.4 km 2 ).

It is known for its stunning natural beauty which takes visitor’s breath away.

The landscape is typical of North America and is dominated by lush evergreen pine forests but also by some broad leaf species of trees.

Its clean natural environment attracts tourists in all four seasons.

Here you can see a great variety of species of animals, including wolf, beaver, lynx and moos.

Beside the main island, Isle Royale National Park also includes the territories of 450 smaller islets in the area.

42. Mount Hood National Forest (OR)

Mount Hood National Forest is considered the best place in the United States to hike.

Established on July 1, 1908, it covers a total area of 1,071,466 acres (4,336.07 km 2 ) in the central part of Northern Oregon.

It offers hundreds of stunning tourist trails, waterfalls, swimming holes, gorges, rivers and snow capped mountain peaks.

It is a popular summer vacation spot.

Among the hundreds of must visit natural landmarks within the national forest, we should mention the wonderful Multnomah Falls and Little Crater Lake.

With a total height of 620 feet (189 meters), Multnomah Falls welcomes nearly 5 million visitors per year.

It is well known for its beauty as well as for the Multnomah Falls Bridge which reveals a spectacular view of the waterfall.

Little Crater Lake is another treasure within the borders of Mount Hood National Park.

With a max depth of about 45 feet (14 m), the spring-fed lake is known as the most clear in North America and in the world.

The sapphire blue water of the lake, however, barely exceeds the freezing temperature, even in July and August.

41. Dakota Building (NY)

The Dakota Building is a 10 floors high residential building, which is considered one of the most famous landmarks in New York.

You will find it at the corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West in Manhattan.

It is an architectural masterpiece and is a mix of Gothic Revival, Renaissance and Victorian architecture.

John Lennon had lived here with his wife Yoko Ono until his death on December 8, 1980.

If you want to pay tribute to John Lennon, you can do that by visiting his memorial.

You will find it in Central Park, only a few minutes walk from the Dakota Building.

40. Crater Lake (OR)

Crater Lake is one of the most significant landmarks in the Western United States.

It is located in Southern Oregon, not far from the California border.

It falls within the Crater Lake National Park , which was established on May 22, 1902.

The national park covers approximately 183,224 acres (741.48 km²).

It is dominated by the huge 6 miles wide volcanic caldera of Mount Mazama, whose last eruption was in 2850 BC.

Inside the caldera itself is the wonderful Crater Lake, which is known for its unique deep blue color.

Being 1,949 feet (594 meters) deep, it is the ninth deepest lake on Earth and the second deepest in North America.

39. Madison Square Garden (NY)

Located on East 26th Street and Madison Avenue in Manhattan, Madison Square Garden is one of the most famous and emblematic buildings in New York.

The construction started on October 29, 1964, and the building was officially opened on February 11, 1968.

Often described as a wonder of modern architecture, MSG is a place where numerous sport and cultural events are being held every year, including concerts and important basketball tournaments.

38. Chimney Rock (NE)

Mentioned for the first time in 1827, the Chimney Rock was formed approximately 25 million years ago.

Because of its historical importance, the Chimney Rock, Nebraska, was designated a National Historic Site on August 9, 1956.

It was described multiple times during the first half of the 19th century by pioneers traveling from New England to California and Oregon.

The closest town to the rock is Bayard, which is less than 4 miles north.

37. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC/TN)

With 12,547,743 visitors in 2019, Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited protected territory within the United States.

It covers parts of Tennessee and North Carolina and is known for its beautiful mixed deciduous and coniferous forests as well as for its round-shaped mountains.

The most interesting feature of the national park is the thick bluish-gray mist which often covers the mountain valleys and peaks and can appear in any season.

In 1983, Great Smoky Mountains National Park was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

36. Lanikai Beach (HI)

The islands of Hawaii have always been known for their outstanding beaches.

One of the most irresistible is Lanikai Beach, located on the east coast of Oahu.

Dotted with palm groves, it is considered the best beach in the United States.

It is popular with tourists for its soft white sands and crystal clear turquoise water.

Lanikai Beach is a relatively narrow stretch of sand with a total length of nearly one mile.

35. Montezuma Castle (AZ)

Created between 1100 and 1450 AD, Montezuma Castle is one of the most interesting archaeological sites in the United States.

It is located approximately 3 miles north of Camp Verde, Central Arizona.

Carved into the limestone cliffs, Montezuma Castle was declared a national monument on December 8, 1906.

Since summers are quite hot here, the best time to visit this place is in spring and autumn.

34. Saint Augustine (FL)

Saint Augustin is a small tourist town in Northeast Florida, which is known for its wonderful beaches.

It enjoys lovely warm weather with plenty of sunny and clear days for most of the year.

Except for its golden sands, the small coastal community is known also as an important historical town.

Established by Spanish settlers in 1565, Saint Augustin is the oldest continuously inhabited city founded by European settlers on the territory of the United States.

33. French Quarter (LA)

Established in 1718, the French Quarter is among the oldest neighbourhoods in the South of the United States and is also one of the most beautiful.

It is known for its charming squares, busy shopping streets, lovely gardens, jazz clubs and fantastic restaurants but mostly for its unique Spanish colonial (yes, Spanish) architecture.

Most of the buildings were completed during the 18th century and are characterized by richly decorated exterior facades, arched windows and elegant terraces and verandas.

32. Horseshoe Bend (AZ)

Located in Northern Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is an important tourist attraction, which welcomes more than 2.2 million visitors per year.

The 1,000 feet (305 meters) deep canyon was formed approximately 200 million years ago, and today it falls within the borders of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

It is known for the dramatic view of the 270° bend.

Autumn is considered the best time of the year to visit Horseshoe Bend, although spring and winter months have their advantages too.

Summer is beautiful but it is better to avoid because of the huge number of visitors and too high temperatures of between 90 and 100°F (between 32 and 38°C).

31. SeaWorld (CA)

Opened in San Diego on March 21, 1964, “SeaWorld” is one of the most popular oceanariums in the world.

Here you can enjoy close encounters with different species of fresh and saltwater creatures, including turtles and sharks.

The biggest attraction is the wide variety of show programs with dolphins, sea lions and orcas.

The park also offers an amazing aqua park as well as an exciting roller coaster together with many other entertainments.

30. Golden Gate Bridge (CA)

Opened on April 19, 1933, Golden Gate Bridge is one of the symbols of the West Coast of the United States.

The total length of the bridge is 8,980 feet (2,737.1 m) and the clearance below is 220 feet (67.1 m).

The central span of the bridge is 4,200 feet (1,280.2 m) long.

What makes Golden Gate different and unique is its orange color with light reddish shades, known as international orange.

According to the initial plans, the orange color was intended to be only a temporary decision against corrosion.

It turned out, however, that it complements the surrounding landscape perfectly, and it also makes the bridge more easily visible in dense fogs, which are quite frequent in the area.

29. Redwood National Park (CA)

Redwood National and State Park was established on October 2, 1968.

It covers a total area of 138,999 acres (562.51km²) along the Pacific coast of Northern California.

The old-growth forest is known for its redwood trees, which are considered the tallest on Earth.

Some of them are more than 328 feet (100 meters) tall.

The record belongs to a tree that was discovered in 2006.

It is currently 379.7 feet (115.7 m) tall but will probably grow even more in future.

According to scientists, it is between 600 and 800 years old.

28. Santa Monica (CA)

Santa Monica is a symbol of the beach lifestyle in California and is the place where the popular Route 66 ends.

It has always been very attractive because of its 5 miles long stretch of soft golden sand.

Between 1989 and 1999, however, it gained additional popularity thanks to the well-known TV series “Baywatch”.

One of the attractions in the area is the Santa Monica Pier, which is known from a number of movies and TV series.

Here you will also find a great amusement park, which attracts thousands of visitors every day, especially after sunset.

27. Molokai (HI)

With a total area of 260 mi² (670 km²), Molokai is the fifth largest island in the archipelago of Hawaii and is one of the least popular with tourists.

Most of the island is rural and wild, dominated by lush tropical forests, deep and dark canyons, scenic waterfalls, dramatic coastal cliffs, vast and sunny savanna valleys and pristine beaches.

The island is known for its coral reefs, which are considered the longest and the most impressive in Hawaii.

Molokai attracts mostly hikers and adventurers, who want to explore the islands of Hawaii outside the beaten roads.

Don’t miss the tallest waterfall in the United States. Called Pu’uka’oku Falls, it is approximately 2,756 feet (840 meters) and is the eight tallest in the world.

26. Catalina Island (CA)

Located only 27 miles (43.5 km) from Los Angeles, Santa Catalina Island is a popular weekend destination.

It combines great golden beaches, historical buildings and wonderful restaurants, so you can always find something interesting to do here.

Because of the casual and relaxed atmosphere of Avalon (the capital of the island), it has always been a popular spot for short romantic summer breaks.

One of the advantages of the small tourist island is that 88% of its territory is wild and untouched.

25. Guggenheim Museum (NY)

Opened on October 21, 1959, the Guggenheim Museum is one of the most recommended to visit museums in New York.

It is housed in a very beautiful and recognizable building, right next to Central Park, between 88th and 89th streets, on 5th Avenue.

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, it is one of the best examples of modern architecture.

Exhibitions on various topics are held here on a regular basis, so you will definitely find something to suit your taste.

The museum is free every Saturday between 5pm and 8pm.

24. Lincoln Memorial (Washington, D.C.)

Lincoln Memorial is located in Potomac Park, Washington.

Its construction started on February 12, 1914, on the east bank of the Potomac River and completed officially on May 30, 1922.

The Greek Revival style structure is 99 feet (30 meters) tall and 189.7 by 118.5 feet (57.8 by 36.1 m) wide.

Inside the Memorial you can see an impressive 19 feet (5.8 meters) Georgia marble monument of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States.

23. Napa Valley (CA)

Napa Valley is located about 50 miles north of San Francisco and 40 miles from the ocean.

As it is not situated directly on the coast, the weather here is quite different from San Francisco, especially during the summer season, which is much warmer and without fogs.

Because of the combination of mild Mediterranean climate and rich soils, Napa Valley is the top spot in the U.S. for wine lovers, and it offers a number of reputable wineries to visit.

The place is known for its high quality grape varieties, which are responsible for the excellent taste and aroma of the produced drinks.

22. Rocky Mountains National Park (CO)

Established on January 26, 1915, Rocky Mountains National Park covers approximately 265,461 acres (1,074.28 km²) in the central part of Northern Colorado.

Dominated by sharp snow covered mountain ridges, it is known for its wonderful glacial gorges, dense pine forests and crystal clear glacial lakes.

As of 2019, the park welcomes more than 4.6 million visitors from around the world.

June, July and August are absolutely the best months to visit the park.

They bring temperatures of about 68°F (20°C) during the day and between 39 and 47°F (approximately between 4 and 7°C) at night.

The park is known also for its great variety of wild animals, including elk, grizzly bear, mountain lion, moose and many others.

21. Venice Beach (CA)

Venice Beach is a tempting 2.8 miles long stretch of white soft sands and is one of the most popular beaches with young people in the United States.

It attracts surfers and sun seekers even in winter.

The coastal promenade is a favourite place for skateboarding, jogging, cycling, walking and buying souvenirs.

Venice Beach is known for its multi color wall murals, which are one of the symbols of the emblematic place.

The city itself was established in 1905. It had been an independent city until 1926 when it joined Los Angeles.

20. Chrysler Building (NY)

Known for its fine Art Deco architecture, Chrysler Building is one of the most emblematic structures in New York.

It is located at 405 Lexington Avenue, between 42nd and 43rd streets, in the East Side.

The construction started in 1928 and finished in 1930, 2 years later.

As of 2020, the 1,046 ft (318.9 m) skyscraper is still 11th tallest in New York.

Nowadays, almost a century later, the skyscraper with its pointed roof is still one of the most recognizable buildings in Manhattan.

19. Lahaina (HI)

Lahaina is a colorful and sunny tourist town but also an important historical settlement.

Located on the northwestern coast of Maui, it served as a capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii between 1820 and 1845.

Nowadays, you can find a number of architectural monuments and historical landmarks here, including the Old Fort, the Buddhist temple Hokoji Shingon Mission, the Baldwin Home (today museum) and many others.

18. Misty Fjords National Monument (AK)

Misty Fjords National Monument is a protected area, which is located in the southernmost part of Alaska, next to the Canadian province of British Columbia.

It occupies an area of 2,294,343 acres (9,246 km²).

It is the largest wilderness in Alaska and consists of hundreds of fjords, the largest of which is the Behm Canal (about 100 miles long).

Because of its geographic location, Misty Fjords National Monument enjoys a better climate compared to other parts of Alaska.

The place is a great opportunity to enjoy pristine nature and untouched pine forests.

17. Malibu (CA)

Malibu is a scenic and popular coastal community, which stretches along the coast northwest of Santa Monica.

On March 28,1991, it became an incorporated city.

Malibu is known for its affluent and famous residents, many of which are Hollywood celebrities.

One of the tourist attractions in the area are the luxury beachfront villas.

Malibu is known also for its surf culture, which has been flourishing since the summer of 1926.

16. Brooklyn Bridge (NY)

With a total length of 6,016 feet (1,833.7 meters) and clearance of approximately 127 feet (38.7 meters), Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most impressive structures completed in the world during the 19th century.

Its construction was a real challenge because of the difficult terrain and the unstable bottom of the East River.

The bridge was officially completed on May 24, 1883.

Today it is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the world and still serves as one of the most important transport connections between Brooklyn and Manhattan.

15. Olympic National Park (WA)

Added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1981, Olympic National Park preserves one of the most beautiful pine forests across North America.

It was established on June 29, 1938, and is located in a mountainous area in Northwest Washington.

The park covers an area of approximately 922,650 acres (3,733.8 km²) and welcomes more than 3 million visitors annually.

The main tourist attractions of the national park are the 2.6 miles long Blue Glacier, Lake Crescent, Hoh Rainforest and the Hurricane Ridge.

Olympic National Park is home to a huge variety of species of animals, including bears, mountain lions, wolves, deer, eagles, owls and many others.

14. Devils Tower (WY)

Devils Tower is a unique and easily recognizable rock formation located in the northeastern part of Wyoming.

Even if being approximately 50 million years old, the rock emerged above the Earth’s surface only 10 million years ago as a result of erosion.

It rises approximately 1,267 feet (386 meters) above the surrounding landscape.

President Theodore Roosevelt proclaimed Devils Tower the first national monument in the United States on September 24, 1906.

13. 360 Chicago Observation Deck (IL)

360 Chicago Observation Deck is located in John Hancock Center, on 875 North Michigan Avenue.

Constructed between 1965 and 1969, the skyscraper is known for one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the United States.

The observatory is situated at a height of 1,030 feet (310 meters) above ground level, while the tip of the building rises 1,500 feet (457 m).

The best time to visit the tower is shortly after sunset on a clear day (no matter the season), because even a light fog could ruin your experience.

12. Badlands National Park (SD)

You will find one of the most extraordinary places in the United States in the southwestern parts of South Dakota.

Established on January 29, 1939, as a National Monument and later, on November 10, 1978, as a National Park, the Badlands is known for its multiple-colored bizarre-looking eroded rocks.

Surprisingly, the labyrinth of rocks is “only” 500,000 years old.

Scientists believe that the rocks continue to change very fast even today, growing with about 2 to 3 centimeters per year.

The best time of the year to visit the Badlands is early autumn, more precisely September and October.

11. One World Trade Center (NY)

America is the birthplace of the skyscraper so it is not surprising that you can find some of the tallest buildings in the world here.

One World Trade Center is the tallest skyscraper in the Western Hemisphere, and today it dominates the skyline of New York.

Located in Lower Manhattan, it rises 1,792 feet (546.2 meters) above the street canyon of the city.

The construction started on April 27, 2006, and completed on May 10, 2013.

10. The Wave (AZ)

Located in Coconino County in Northern Arizona, the Wave falls within the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.

It is considered one of the most difficult to visit places in the United States as you need a special permission to go there.

The eroded Jurassic rocks are very fragile, and at the same time, the number of people who want to visit this canyon is really enormous.

That’s why the Bureau of Land Management issues only 20 permits per day for people who want to visit the place.

The lucky ones are being chosen on the base of a lottery system.

The best time of the year to visit the Wave is in spring and autumn.

9. Valley of Fire State Park (NV)

Valley of Fire State Park was established in 1935 and covers a territory of approximately 45,937.88 acres (185.9040 km²) in Southern Nevada.

Because of its closeness to Las Vegas (only 50 miles / 80 kilometers), the park welcomes quite a large number of visitors.

It is known for its red-colored desert, and the main tourist attraction is the Elephant Rock.

Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1968, the park is also known for its numerous petroglyphs, which can be seen in different parts of the protected territory.

The best time to visit Valley of Fire State Park is spring and autumn, which bring the most pleasant weather conditions.

8. Beacon Hill, Boston (MA)

Established in 1795, Beacon Hill is one of the most beautiful historical neighbourhoods not only in Boston but in the United States.

Its old red-brick buildings from the 18th century and narrow cobbled streets make you feel like you are in Europe.

On October 15, 1966, Beacon Hill was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

This is a wonderful place to walk around, especially if you love history.

7. Kauai (HI)

Kauai is considered the oldest of the six major Hawaiian Islands.

It is located in the northwestern part of the archipelago and is known for some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.

The scenery is a mixture of dense tropical rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, shady canyons, fertile valleys and out of this world golden beaches.

If you love Jurassic Park, you should know that many scenes from the movie were filmed here, including the helicopter scene with the waterfall when Dr. Alan Grant and Dr. Ellie Sattler arrive on the island of Jurassic Park for the first time.

6. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (MI)

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore covers an area of approximately 73,236 acres (296 km²) in Northern Michigan and stretches for more than 40 miles along the coast of Lake Superior.

The protected area was established on October 15, 1966, and is an especially attractive destination during the summer season.

The place is known for its crystal clear emerald waters.

Here you will find a number of fantastic little coves and beaches.

It is an attractive place for swimming, scuba diving, kayaking and boating.

Despite being quite cold for most of the year, the weather in summer is usually wonderful.

June, July and August bring a number of hot and sunny days, mirrored waters and clear skies.

5. Times Square (NY)

Being equally bright, busy and lively 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, Times Square is the most iconic spot in New York City.

Limited between Broadway, 7th Avenue, 42nd and 47th Streets in Manhattan, its history started on April 8, 1904, when Longacre Square was renamed to Times Square soon after the influential newspaper New York Times moved into one of the buildings there.

Today the square is associated with its numerous bright LED billboards, signs and displays, and is a popular meeting point for locals and tourists.

4. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (TX)

San Antonio Mission National Historic Park covers a territory of 948 acres (384 ha) along the shores of San Antonio River.

Because of its historical importance, the site in the southern part of San Antonio, Texas, attracts visitors from all over the world.

It is known for its old missions from the 18th and 19th century.

One of the most recognizable and well preserved is Misión Concepción, which was completed in 1731.

Other well-preserved buildings within the park include Mission San Juan Capistrano, Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo and Mission Espada.

In 2015, the historical park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

3. Yellowstone National Park (WY)

Established on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States.

Located in the Rocky Mountains of Northwestern Wyoming, the protected area is not just one of the symbols of the United States but it is also the best place to spot wild animals in America.

On the territory of 2,219,791 acres (8,983.18 km²), you can see a wide variety of species of animals, including American bison, wolf, mountain lion, grizzly bear, coyote, moose, deer, bald eagle etc.

One of the most exciting tourist attractions is the Old Faithful, which is the most famous cone geyser in the world, erupting once every 90 minutes.

The national park was added to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites in 1978.

The best time to visit the park is between early April and late October.

July and August are too crowded but they offer very pleasant temperatures of up to 80 °F (27 °C).

2. Everglades National Park (FL)

Established in 1934, Everglades National Park occupies approximately 1,508,976 acres (6,106.61 km²) in the southernmost part of Florida.

It is covered mostly by extensive marshlands, swamps and mangrove forests.

Because of its warm and humid tropical climate, the area is known for its impressive biodiversity.

The climate is also the main reason why most people prefer to visit the park in winter.

Here you can see a number of rare species of animals, including bald eagles, herons, mountain lions, alligators and sea cows (manatees).

In 1979, Everglades National Park was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

1. Yosemite National Park (CA)

Established in 1890, Yosemite National Park covers approximately 748,436 acres (3,028.81 km²) in the interior of Central California.

It is well-known for its diverse landscape and attracts more than 4 million visitors per year with its wonderful waterfalls, U-shaped glacial valleys, dense pine forests and crystal clear mountain lakes.

Most of the park lies at an altitude of more than 3900 feet (1188.72 meters) above sea level.

In 1984 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here you can see a wide variety of species of animals, including black bears, deer, squirrels, mountain lions, grey wolves, eagles and many others.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

Top-100 point guard Acaden Lewis eyeing Ohio State visit for fall

Acaden Lewis picked a good time to have a good camp.

Following a sophomore season that saw his Sidwell Friends, Washington, D.C., school capture multiple championships and finish No. 17 nationally in ESPN’s rankings , Lewis was already receiving recruiting interest and attention from plenty of schools when he received an invitation to the Nike Elite 100 Camp in early June.

On June 15, when college coaches could first begin directly contacting rising juniors in the class of 2025, the 6-2, 170-pound guard heard from nearly 20 different high-major Division I schools that day alone.

“I caught a really big stride in June, once I played at the Nike Elite 100 Camp,” Lewis said. “I played extremely well there. Since then, I hit a pretty nice stride and I’ve just kept it going.”

Ohio State Buckeyes: Join the Ohio State Sports Insider text group with Bill Rabinowitz, Joey Kaufman Adam Jardy

Unranked to open the month, Lewis debuted at No. 95 in 247Sports.com’s national rankings. He’s since climbed two spots and is listed as a four-star prospect, and No. 13 combo guard in the nation and the No. 3 player from Washington, D.C.

It’s helped put him on the radar of numerous colleges, affording Lewis the opportunity to do something he really enjoys: pick the brains of high-major coaches.

“I’m a relationship guy,” he said. “I just like talking to coaches. I want to hear what they see and maybe watch some film with them. It lets me get a feel for them as a person. Whether that’s through texts, calls, I just like to talk to you as much as possible. If I can ask for anything from a coach it would probably be that, that we have consistent communication because that’s what I really look for.”

Ohio State Buckeyes: Ohio State 'up there' for star 2025 guard Darryn Peterson as he moves to Huntington Prep

One of those schools is Ohio State. The Buckeyes haven’t yet offered a scholarship, but they are one of five or six schools Lewis is planning to try and visit this fall. Assistant coach Mike Netti is Lewis’ primary contact, he said.

The Buckeyes were one of the many schools to reach out around June 15.

“It’s been good,” Lewis said about getting to know the Ohio State coaches. “I talk to them probably one a week, maybe more sometimes, but along the general lines I’d say once a week. We’ve had a couple convos on the phone.”

Lewis said he has scheduled a visit to Florida State on Oct. 14 and that he is working on finalizing dates to see Georgetown, Marquette, Ohio State, Oregon and Virginia this fall as well. Marquette is a more recent addition to the list, he said, and the plan is for many if not all of his visits to be official visits. The hope is to commit to a school by the end of next summer’s Peach Jam.

“On visits, I’m looking for how the players react to (the coaches), how they talk to their players,” Lewis said. “I always ask players what do they think of the coach. I want to see how he talks to his staff. Definitely like to see the contrast between how he talks to his guys that are playing the whole game compared to maybe a new freshman or sophomore that isn’t playing too much.”

And while Lewis is listed by most recruiting services as a combo guard, he wanted to be clear on one thing: call him what you want, but he’s a point guard. It’s the position schools are recruiting him to play.

“I don’t really know how to feel about that sometimes,” he said. “I’m not a combo. I definitely run the 1. It’s fine for them to put me on sites like that, but I run the 1.

“If you would’ve asked me a year or two ago I probably wouldn’t have told you that I was a 1, but since then I’ve become a lot more of a leader and my vocalness on the court has stepped up a lot, which I think has propelled me to be a better point guard. I take a lot of pride in the fact that I’ve worked to become a point guard.”

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Skip the parks! 10 best national monuments for spectacular views

April 9, 2024 // By Jean Chen Smith

By Jean Chen Smith April 9, 2024

Although national parks are considered America’s jewels, national monuments also have much to offer. In the U.S., a national monument is a protected area of land or water owned or controlled by the federal government. These include archeological sites, historic landmarks and structures, and other objects and spaces of significance — including national parks !

The primary difference between a national park and a national monument is that only presidents can declare a national monument, whereas a national park requires an act of Congress. President Theodore Roosevelt initiated the program: He deemed Devils Tower, located in eastern Wyoming, the first national monument through the Antiquities Act of 1906 .

Today, there are 133 national monuments spread across the United States, with the most in Arizona (19), followed by California (18), then New Mexico (13). They encompass natural wonders, famous statues, hikes and stairs, and often fantastic views of good, old-fashioned American scenery.

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With so many options, we gathered our 10 favorite national monuments with scenic views, plus offer tips on things you can do while visiting. Entry fees are typically $10 per person on foot or $20 per vehicle, but it's best to check in advance .

Statue of Liberty National Monument - New York, New York

The Statue of Liberty is the most visited national monument in the U.S., welcoming more than 4 million visitors a year. Gifted to the U.S. by France in a display of friendship in 1886, Lady Liberty was designated a national monument in 1924. She’s been a symbol of freedom and equality since.

Visitors can climb the narrow, spiral staircase to the statue's crown and see sweeping views of New York City. There's no elevator access, so you'll climb 162 steps to reach the top. Reservations are required. If you choose to forgo the strenuous climb, you can visit the museum, which debuted in 2019.

Like most visitors, you might also venture to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which requires a separate ferry ticket (or take a cruise around both ). Spring and fall are the best times to visit the Statue of Liberty to avoid the crowds. Winter is the slowest time of year but comes with variable weather conditions.

Dinosaur National Monument - Vernal, Utah

Located on the southeast side of the Uinta Mountains along the border of Colorado and Utah, the Dinosaur National Monument offers panoramic views of colorful rock strata.

In addition to plenty of hiking trails, which range from easy to difficult, visitors can camp, go river rafting, or explore the many petroglyphs throughout the 200,000 acres. More than 1,500 dinosaur relics are on view along the "Wall of Bones" in the Quarry Exhibit Hall. The best time to visit Dinosaur National Monument is from April to September.

Bandelier National Monument - Los Alamos, New Mexico

Established in 1916, Bandelier National Monument spans 33,677 sprawling acres. With over 70 miles of hiking trails, visitors have many options for exploring the well-preserved archeological sites of the Ancestral Pueblo community.

One not to miss is a moderate 3-mile hike through an 11,000-year-old colony, which features ladders and small carved rooms called cavates (pronounced CAVE-eights). Those who have trouble climbing (or feel claustrophobic) should exercise caution.

Permits are available for camping and RVs (no hookups available). Though open year-round from dawn to dusk, the best times to visit Bandelier National Monument are spring and fall. Summers are dry and get very hot.

Muir Woods National Monument - Mill Valley, California

Recognized in 1908, Muir Woods National Monument is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California. Encompassing 558 acres just north of San Francisco, these towering redwoods, many over 1,000 years old, attract both local residents and tourists. Some of these gorgeous trees stretch higher than 250 feet.

There are many hiking options here. The Ben Johnson Trail is approximately 4 miles and sees an elevation gain of 925 feet. On a clear day, you might see the Pacific Ocean from the top.

From August through October, you'll find the best weather in Muir Woods; you’ll likely see rain from late October to May.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument - Kanab, Utah

If you think Bryce Canyon National Park is spectacular with its sedimentary red rocks, wait until you visit the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah. Be prepared for some seriously strenuous hikes to see magnificent views and petrified trees.

The rock formations here are stunning; expect to see brightly lit orange sandstone cliffs and slot canyons. Because the area is remote, come prepared with water and snacks. Best times to visit Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are from March to June and September to October, as summers get stifling hot. Leashed dogs are allowed on trails.

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - Kimberly, Oregon

At the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument , fossils from over 50 million years ago show the evolutionary process of climate change, animals, and plant life. The park covers over 14,000 acres in three geographically diverse units: Sheep Rock Unit, Painted Hills Unit, and Clarno Unit. The great thing about John Day is that you don’t have to do a ton of hiking to reap the rewards of splendid rock formations and captivating landscapes.

The Painted Hills Unit specifically offers several short hikes that offer breathtaking scenery. Spring and fall are the best times to visit John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. Summers get very hot, and in the winter you might encounter ice and snow.

Cabrillo National Monument - San Diego, California

Nestled at the southernmost edge of the Point Loma Peninsula, Cabrillo National Monument celebrates the European expedition of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, which began when he landed in 1542. One of the most popular attractions is the tide pools, formed over millions of years. The rocky coastline varies dramatically at high and low tides.

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, built in 1855, served as a signal light to ships for centuries. Today, the popular attraction provides a historical context to the area. The visitors center also offers exhibits and guided tours to facilitate an educational experience for adults and children. Fall and winter are the best times to visit the tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument when the current is low throughout the daytime.

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument - Castle Rock, Washington

Designated by President Ronald Reagan in 1982 following the explosive eruption, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument spreads across 110,000 acres. Managed by the United States Forest Service, the preserved site offers many viewing spots and information about the historic event.

While there are many hiking trails, the most challenging (and popular) is the Mount Saint Helens Summit via Ptarmigan Trail. The vigorous, 8.5-mile out-and-back trail features gorgeous views and indigenous flora and wildlife. Dogs are allowed at the monument but not on this particular trail. Visit Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument in late spring through early fall for the best weather.

Carrizo Plain National Monument - Santa Margarita, California

The Carrizo Plain National Monument is a magical place to visit. This secluded area sits across more than 200,000 acres with miles and miles of hiking paths , most of which are flat and easy to navigate. Set in San Luis Obispo County, California, the plain is famous for being one of the best viewing sites of the San Andreas Fault, which runs along the northeastern side.

The plains offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Visit Carrizo Plain National Monument in late March to early May to see vibrantly colored wildflowers in abundance along the mountainsides and in the valley. The well-maintained visitors center features a gift shop, restrooms, and picnic tables.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument - Chinle, Arizona

Located in northeastern Arizona, Canyon de Chelly National Monument is best known for Spider Rock, an 800-foot-tall spire, and its impressive canyons. President Herbert Hoover designated this national monument in 1931, but its cultural significance dates to more than 4,000 years ago when the Anasazi tribe inhabited the land.

The park spans 83,840 acres with trails that range from easy to challenging. The Navajo Tribal Trust of the Navajo Nation owns the monument, but it's managed jointly with the National Park Service. Plan your visit to Canyon de Chelly National Monument during spring and fall for a mild climate and colorful wildflowers.

About Jean Chen Smith

Jean Chen Smith is a freelance journalist who has been producing content for over 15 years. With a love of travel and storytelling, her intention is to create content to inspire and connect people to places, things, and experiences. Her articles have appeared in AARP, Travel and Leisure, 1859 magazine, Insider Travel, USA Today, Family Vacationist, The Oregonian, SFGATE, weekand.com, and more. When not writing or teaching Pilates at her studio, she enjoys trail running, spending time with her pups Tonka and Paisley, and reading suspense novels.

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Weis Markets Feedback Survey – Add 100 More Points to your Reward Card!

America’s food retailer giant, Weis Markets, has taken up an initiative to conduct an online survey for better consumer services. As the top retailing corporation, it has decided to prioritize customers by conducting a survey. Through this survey, the organization tries to establish direct communication to customers for suggestions as well as working on its drawbacks. Moreover, it lets consumers give their valuable feedback at Weisfeedback survey page so that this retailer can improvise and serve better.

Weis Markets has followed a trend that gives clients few points on every purchase, so they have points in their account for getting discounts after gaining a certain number of points. In addition, all those who participate in this survey, apart from laying forward their suggestions, can get 100 points into their card for discounts. Amazing, isn’t it?! So, all a client needs to do is share his/her shopping experience regarding their visit to any of its stores and Voila! They can win discount vouchers and gift cards.  Excited, aren’t you? Get acquainted with this survey well through our article.

Rules and Requirements for Weis Survey

Weis Markets Survey Terms and Conditions

• An entrant should have a Weis Markets purchase receipt as well as a reward card to enter this survey.
• Note that a reward card is compulsory.
• Validity of a purchase receipt is just 72 hours. After that, it expires immediately.
• Participants must be legal residents of 50 United States.
• Members interested in joining this review shall be 18 years of age or above.
• Survey is available in English only. So sufficient knowledge of that language is necessary.
• Employees of these stores and their direct relatives like mother, father, brother, sister, wife, etc., are omitted from participating.

Weis Market Survey Perquisites

• Entrants must possess a smartphone, laptop, or PC.
• Participants shall have the ability to read and type in English.
• Internet connection is required to participate. A steady internet connection is preferred.
• Receipt and reward card for entry is mandatory.

Methods to take part in Weis Customer Satisfaction Survey

There is only one way for members to join this Weis feedback survey and win extra discount points. That is by going on Weis’ official survey website, www.weismarketfeedback.com, and answering its questionnaire. Unfortunately, there is no offline procedure for this survey as it is available only in digital.

How to Take Weis e Survey @ weisfeedback.com?

1. First, visit Weis Markets’ official website through www.weisfeedback.com . If you want take Weis markets feedback survey for pickup or delivery order, Click on ‘Weis2GO Online Order’. Else, choose the ‘In-store Visit’ option.

2. On an appeared web page, enter your Weis reward card’s number, location number, date /time of your visit, receipt entry, and purchase bill number.

3. Some of these details will be available on your Weiss receipt.

4. Next, enter all personal data regarding age, gender, age, etc.

5. Click on “Start” to answer questions.

6. Questions regarding your recent experience with Weis, range of available products, customer services, staff behavior, and overall quality of its services will appear to respond.

7. Answer all questions honestly, either positive or negative all responses are equally appreciated.

8. After completion of this Weis customer survey, 100 reward points will be added to your Wei rewards.

Weis Rewards for Participating in Survey

Weis Markets usually offers points on every purchase and adds them for discounts in future shopping. This is one positive aspect of the franchise. So taking the survey, customers get to gain straight away 100 points to their reward card. Validity of these points remains permanently on your cards. Incredible, right?! Anyone can benefit from these points on any purchase. All a patron has to do is just take out some time and answer questions asked at the Weisfeedback survey. 

Note: Rewards cannot get transferred or converted into cash. One receipt per one entry and only one survey is allowed for getting Weisfeedback com reward points for every 7 days.

Why Take the Weis Feedback Customer Survey?

Factors that any department cares about and prioritizes more are quality, reputation, attractive prices, and more customers. And Weis Markets has all these qualities in it. You can only find top-quality products at all of its stores. But its management still thinks they need to work on consumer satisfaction areas and better them more. Besides, it wants to know if any particular outlet is offering low-grade foods, any of its staff are rude, or how to bring more satisfaction to its customers. 

Thus, here comes this feedback which is more like conducting direct communication and asking more directly consumers’ feedback and queries. Moreover, participants’ efforts won’t go wasted as they can get direct 100 points in their reward account for future shopping. Giving honest feedback allows  Weis to implement suggestions in action and take care of complaints to provide better services to patrons.

Questions Asked during Weis Markets Customer Survey

One can relate a Weisfeedback questionnaire to these questions:

• How is the quality of products?
• Are you satisfied with the timings of senior hours?
• Is the staff behavior good?
• What are your recommendations on additional products?
• Do you have any feedback on delivery?
• Personal suggestions.
• Rate your overall experience.
• How long did you have to stand in the queue?

About Weis Markets

Weis Markets is a Mid-Atlantic food retailer based in Sunbury, Pennsylvania. It currently operates with 196 stores consisting of over 23,000 employees in Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, etc. This retailer was started by Harry and Sigmund Weis brothers in 1912. Their store has been reported revolutionary at the time of its establishment, as it did not care much about profits by making products available at affordable prices. This brand still continues to give commodities at cheap prices and of the best quality to consumers. It also invests in pharmacy and other senior hours for more reach.

Weis Customer Service

Often having too many branches, franchises, and stores, it becomes difficult to solve disputes occurring within or outside those stores. Hence, every institution needs to have customer service to solve quality or quantity-related issues, fake products, or damaged ones. To address any complaints to Weis Markets, make use of these customer service details.

Official Weis Feedback Website : www.weismarket.com

Weis Markets Head Office : 1000 South Second Street Sunbury, Pennsylvania 17801 The United States.

Weis Phone Number : 1-866-999-9347

Email : [email protected]

Weis hours : 6 AM to 8 PM (Monday to Sunday). During Weekends, it may close early at some locations.

Weis Markets outlets close at 8 pm.

Weis Markets outlets open at 6 am.

Yes. Every Tuesday, both seniors and people with immunity-related issues can shop in all Weis Markets stores from 6:00 am – 7:00 am.

Survey code is not necessary to enter the Weis rewards survey. Just enter the Reward Card Number from your rewards card along with Date, Time, and Location from your receipt.

Harry and Sigmund Weis own Weis Markets.

Weis Markets doubles manufacturer coupons up to 99 cents in all locations.

One can view their store gift card balance by visiting Weis’ official website or by calling the number on the back of a Weis gift card.

You can get 19-cent for a pound of bananas or 39 cents for a 20-ounce loaf of Weis Quality Sandwich Bread with your Weis points.

Yes. Seniors can now avail 10% discount on Tuesdays in Weis Market. Individuals must be 60+ years old and present a valid ID. See a store associate for more details.

Weis sells different gift cards as mentioned below- 1. Ten Dollar Gift Card +$10.00. 2. Twenty Dollar Gift Card +$20.00. 3. Twenty-five Dollar Gift Card +$25.00. 4. Fifty Dollar Gift Card +$50.00. 5. One Hundred Dollar Gift Card +$100.00.

Weis Markets has 196 stores in total.

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Researchers uncover ways to improve railcar roller bearing safety, strength.

Yesterday · 4 min read

Researchers uncover ways to improve railcar roller bearing safety, strength

When Nebraska Engineering researchers began cooking up new recipes for manufacturing railcar bearing components, they expected there would be a few offerings that wouldn’t be as satisfying.

However, rollers for a railroad tapered roller bearing produced using metal powders, a state-of-the-art 3-D printing lab, and additive manufacturing processes proved to be just as robust as rollers made using currently conventional techniques.

Joseph Turner, Robert W. Brightfelt Professor of Mechanical Engineering, said the first-ever 3D-printed rollers for railroad bearings exceeded expectations, creating a starting point for expanding the use of this innovative process that could help to make transportation even safer. Their results were compiled into a paper — “Fatigue Performance of Bearing Rollers Manufactured by Laser Powder Bed Fusion” — that was published in the ASTM Special Technical Publication on Bearing and Transmission Steels Technology.

“We cooked up many different recipes and we printed many rollers,” Turner said. “We expected the printed rollers to show failure early on in the tests, but the bottom line is they performed just as well as conventional rollers. Now, we’re going to explore other ideas using this work as the foundation.”

The team was led by Turner and recent mechanical engineering doctoral graduate Luz Sotelo. It also included former faculty member Michael Sealy, graduate students Cody Pratt, Guru Madireddy and Rakeshkumar Karunakaran, and industry partner Amsted Rail Brenco. The project also received support from the National Science Foundation and the Federal Railroad Administration. Sotelo was an NSF Graduate Fellow.

Turner said the team expected standard fatigue tests simulating the loads — up to 286,000 pounds per railcar over 250,000 miles traveled — would show the metal AM recipe for a printed bearing was in need of tweaking.

However, Turner said, the rollers printed in the College of Engineering’s Nebraska Engineering Additive Technology Labs using 8620HC — a high-carbon steel — performed as well as those manufactured using current standard processes.

“Basically, when you look at the two types of rollers side by side, you can’t see any difference in the look or their performance,” Turner said. “A lot of times (in metal AM), you will have concerns about the porosity or the internal microstructure of the metals in the first printed objects. Our 3D-printed rollers held up to the demands of the loads and distance that are expected from the mass-produced bearings.”

Typical railcar bearings have more than 40 rollers, which measure about 2 inches by ¾ of an inch, one bearing for each wheel, and a total of about 350 per railcar. The standard-use bearings, Turner said, are manufactured by cutting long loops of thick, steel wire into the required lengths and then grinding them down to create the tapers needed for optimal performance.

Using 3D printing to produce the rollers proved to be significantly more expensive than the current methods, Turner said. Despite that drawback, he said, the use of 3D printing could in the not-too-distant future find a place in many industries that use these types of bearings.

“You have to explore whether it’s even possible before you can begin figuring out when it’s cost effective,” Turner said. “Setting up a production line that makes the bearings is a huge investment but, maybe, it can work in emergency situations — like a mining company in the outback of Australia has a failure that might otherwise hurt their ability to move their product. If they can 3D print a part and not have to wait for something to be shipped to them.”

The next steps, Turner said, might also include looking at possible other ways to make 3D printing more financially sensible in the manufacturing process, such as using more expensive steel powders to create a coating on bearing components made from less expensive metals, to create an overall cheaper and more sturdy bearing with better properties.

“One of the things we in the NEAT Lab have become pretty proficient at is developing these new recipes for alloys,” Turner said. “As prices for our ingredients and equipment continue to drop in price, we will be able to try rolling out some new things that could appeal to a lot of fields and industries.”

• Engineering
• Joseph Turner
• materials and mechanical engineering

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