With a lot of diversity to offer, it’s no wonder that tourists from around the world flock the United States of America every year. From the concrete jungles of New York City to the majestic sunsets of Hawaii, each of the 50 states will definitely have a treat suitable for any type of traveler.

The common challenge for the first-time traveler usually boils down to choosing which places to visit among the countless destinations available. While there can be no definitive list of the must-see places in the US, one can start by checking out some of the most beautiful places to visit in the US.

1. Grand Canyon National Park, Colorado, AZ

The Grand Canyon is a natural landmark carved by the Colorado River in the state of Arizona. Geographically, the river valley runs up to 277 miles long, with a depth of about a mile. It has established itself as a top tourist spot both for casual sightseers admiring the panoramic view as well as thrill-seekers engaged in one of the many activities available.

Tours and activities at the canyon usually kick off from either the North or the South rim. While the South Rim is available to tourists all year round, the North Rim is only open seasonally due to road closures caused by weather. Also, camping is generally limited to designated campgrounds.

Visitors who opt for a more exciting experience can go skydiving or board small aircraft for an aerial view of the canyon. Also, the Grand Canyon Skywalk is a must-see for those who would like a more breathtaking view of the Canyon’s vastness. The glass walkway allows tourists to directly stare, if they can, at the vertical drop directly below them.

2. Washington D.C

Easily recognizable as the capital of the United States of America, Washington D.C. is where history and fun intertwine. Of course, a plan to the capital must always include the sought-after day tour through the presidential residence – the White House.

Washington D.C., aside from the White House and the United States Capitol, also houses various war memorials, museums and the National Zoo – offering a complete experience for the whole family. The Washington Monument, built to commemorate the country’s first president, stands tall and watches over the landscaped park that is the National Mall. Another location of historical significance in the capital is the Arlington National Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place of those who fought in and for the country starting from the Civil War.

Moreover, the Smithsonian Museums, all seventeen of them in the city, plus the National Zoo, charge absolutely nothing for admissions. These attractions, plus the regular flow of commuters from the nearby suburbs of Maryland and Virgina, make for a very lively metropolis.

3. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Contrary to whatever mental image the word “badlands” may create, the Badlands National Park in South Dakota is anything but bad. Covering 242,756 acres of eroded buttes and spires, the surreal geologic formations are home to rich fossil beds, once the roaming ground of prehistoric mammals like the saber-toothed cat. Also, the large expanses of mixed grass prairies are inhabited by wildlife such as bison, sheep, and prairie dogs. Add the fact that there is no visible sign of modern civilization completes that desolate, badlands feel.

Outdoor activities highly recommended in the Badlands include camping, cruising along its surrounding highways, bird-watching, and for most tourists- hiking. There are quite a number of trails for visitors to follow. From the short Door Trail, which is less than a mile long, to the ten- mile Castle Trail, these marked paths lead to outlooks with wide unhindered view of the wilderness beyond. Most trails start and end back with the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, complete with its own indoor theater, bookstore, and even has interactive exhibits. They also offer ranger programs for those interested to become junior rangers.

 4. Maui, Hawaii

Perhaps the best way to enjoy a complete Hawaiian experience is by paying a visit to the island of Maui. The second largest island in the state of Hawaii is home to world-famous beaches with views of migrating whales, the lush and sacred Iao Valley, and picturesque views of the Sun from the peaks of Haleakala.

On the way to the world-renowned Haleakala National Park is the Hana Highway, a 64-mile road running along the east coast of the island, traversing through mountainsides and over bridges. A popular tourist destination in its own right, the length of the Hana Highway is dotted with several attractions often located within private property and not generally accessible to the public. Haleakala National Park, on the other hand is named after and is home to the Haleakala Volcano which, according to local legend, is where the demigod Maui imprisoned the sun to extend the days. A winding trail leads to the summit of the volcano, where visitors flock to try and catch a glimpse of the sunrise at dawn and sunset at dusk.

Tourists often cap the day’s adventures frolicking in one of Maui’s beaches. Among the most popular activities in Maui include snorkeling, surfing, kiteboarding and windsurfing.

5. New York City

Famous American author E. B. White once said of the City That Never Sleeps, “New York provides not only a continuing excitation but also a spectacle that is continuing.” A century later, his words still carry a certain truth to it and for travelers both from the United States and the rest of the world, any time is a good time to visit NYC.

Broadway, widely considered to be the global center of theatrical performances together with the London West End, attracts close to 15 million attendees coming from all over the world to witness these shows. Others visit the city to sightsee in its cultural and historic landmarks which include The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty.

Adding a fresh touch on the city profile are some of the more modern attractions open to the public. The High Line, an abandoned branch of the New York Central Railroad redesigned as an elevated linear park and greenway. The “living system” has stood out as an icon for contemporary landscape architecture since its opening in 2009.

While it is safe to say that one short trip around the States will never be enough, these top five places is guaranteed to give you a memorable and lasting impression of what the Land of the Free can offer. With a head start on your United States vacation, a visit to these places will definitely guarantee a second or even a third time visiting the US.