60 Unique Places In The US To Blow Your Mind
While writing this blog I was thinking okay so I have chosen to write about 41 Unique Places In The US To Blow Your Mind but how am I going to choose only 41 because there are tons of unique places to visit in the USA.
If you will think for a moment how vast the United States Of America is and how much beauty exists here you will be completely amazed.
There are large deserts, huge waterfalls, gigantic mountains, the bucket list is endless but to get the real feel of the US you have to explore, climb the mountains and go to the countryside.
So I started looking at all the photos and videos I have captured while visiting these places to select the final 60, and after a really long thought (and I am serious here),
Finally
I can confidently say, without a doubt these are the
60 Most Unusual Places To Visit In The USA
1.The Wishing Well, Virginia
Located in Virginia Luray Caverns, The Wishing Well is one of the most unique places in the USA. This 6 feet deep pool has a collection of a lot of coins.
The green water of the pool gives a completely breathtaking experience.
2.Carlsbad Caverns National Park,New Mexico
You can enjoy the cavern tour on your own or get a guided tour.
The bats usually come in the caverns in April and it is the best time to see them. You will love Walnut Canyon Desert drive here.
3.Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
The park is home to one of the largest icefields called Harding Icefield in the US. There are 38 glaciers in this park. For animal lovers, there is a lot in store.
You can sea bears, killer whales, harbor seals, and a lot more. I l loved Exit Glacier and Bear Glacier. They are spectacular.
4.Crystal Mill, Colorado
Located in Colorado, Crystal Mill is one of the most beautiful and unique places in the US. Very few people are aware of this. You can get here through Marble town. It is a perfect place for hiking and mountain biking.
Read: Colorado-Most Amazing Things To Do
5.Glacier National Park,Montana
Located in Montana it is one of the most gorgeous places.
Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, Hidden Lake, Going To The Sun Road, Grinell Glacier are some of the major hot spots.
6.Molokai, Hawaii
One of the smallest islands in Hawaii, Molokai is a land of beautiful scenic beauty. Halawa Valley is spectacular. Another place I loved is Kalaupapa National Park.
If you want to do canoeing join Waakapaemua Club. Not many people are aware of Molokai yet and it is certainly one of the hidden gems in the US.
7. Rocky Mountains National Park, Colorado
One of the finest yet not fully explored Rocky Mountains National Park is huge and really beautiful. It is famous for Trail Ridge Road and Old Fall River Road. The park’s tallest mountain is called Longs Peak.
I spend 3 days here because there are a lot of things to do here like hiking, camping, mountain climbing. I saw families with kids and they had a gala time here.
Where To Stay
Book Your Tour–Rocky Mountain Half-Day Explorer Trip
Where To Eat-I had a good meal in Meadow Mountain Cafe
Find out the things to do in Colorado
8.Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Also called Tahoma, Mount Rainier is the tallest mountain in Washington.
The park is located around 60 miles from Seattle. Crystal Mountain and Narada Falls are two of my favorite spots in this park.
9.Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
It is one of the most surreal places in the US. Grand Teton, Jackson Hole, Jenny Lake, Taggart Lake Trail, Delta Lake, Mormon Row are some of the major spots here.
There are some amazing restaurants here too.
10.Blue Lakes, Colorado
One of the most beautiful lakes in the USA, Blue Lakes is located in Mount Snefells Wilderness in Colorado. The turquoise water makes it look even more beautiful. It is a perfect place for hikers. You will surely love the trail.
Read:
Most Weird Colorado Hikes-Top 14
13 Most Beautiful Places To See Fall Foliage In the US
11.The Palouse, Washington
Known for rolling hills, The Palouse is one of the best places in southeastern Washington.
It is also known for wheat fields.
12.Box Canyon, Colorado
Located in Ouray, Colorado, Box Canyon is one of the most spectacular mountain towns in the US. Check both upper and lower Box Canyon Falls. The three main trails are Falls Trails, High Bridge Trail, and Native Plant Loop.
I don’t want to miss an opportunity to capture an Instagram moment so I make sure my internet is at top speed so make sure when you travel your internet is of top quality.
13.Multnomah Falls, Oregon
It is loved by hikers. The beauty of the waterfall is surreal.
With a height of 620 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in the Columbia River gorge. Benson Bridge is the hot spot for selfies.
14.Apostle Island, Wisconsin
Consisting of 22 beautiful islands Apostle Island is home to beautiful caves, lush forests, beautiful lighthouses.
In winter the ice makes the whole place even more beautiful.
Sandstone cliffs and sea caves of Devils Island are major highlights of this island.
Stockton Island is very popular among tourists. Kayaking, camping, sailing, scuba diving, hiking, cycling are some of the interesting activities enjoyed by visitors, truly one of the most unique places in the US.
Read:
Things to do in Wisconsin-Top 15
15.Thor’s Well, Oregon
Located in Siuslaw National Forest, 112 miles from Portland, it is one of the most unique views in the US.
It is around 20 feet deep.
16. Umpqua National Forest, Oregon
It is located on the western slopes of the Cascade mountains. The best part about this place is it has the biggest yet quietest pond. You will hardly see a visitor there, maybe not many people know about it. I was really happy that I booked my flight to Oregon.
It is home to a lot of mammals like deer, black bear, elk also I saw a lot of squirrels. I did a lot of recreational activities like fishing, camping, boating, horseback climbing. It was a lot of fun.
Where To Stay
Where To Eat-The food was amazing in Beckie’s Cafe
Read
9 Best Tropical Islands In The World To Explore
Big Bear Lake Activities In California
17.Skagit Valley Tulip Fields,Washington
Known for the beautiful Tulip flower garden, Skagit Valley Tulip fields look spectacular during Spring.
Every year Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is held in April and a lot of people come to visit this natural beauty.
18. Devils Tower, Wyoming
Consists of igneous rocks Devils Tower is located in northeastern Wyoming. It is surrounded by sedimentary rocks.
This place is the favorite for rock climbers( I love climbing) and a hundred of them gather to experience it. I liked Devils Tower National Monument which protects species like a bald eagle. People who love photography will have a lot to capture here and is truly one of the top places in Wyoming.
Whenever I travel to less-visited places I make sure my online security is protected so make sure to use a reliable VPN.
Where To Stay
Book Your Tour–Grand Teton National Park
Where To Eat-Restaurants near Devils Tower
Read–
Jobs That Require Travel And Pay Well Too
Related:33 Best Travel Tips
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19.Valley Of Fire State Park, Nevada
It is one of America’s hidden gems as not many people are aware of this place.
The place is the perfect place for hiking and camping. It is known for its beautiful red sandstone formations.
It is located 50 miles from Las Vegas. Pink Canyon, Elephant Rock, The Fire Wave, Atatl are some of my favorite spots.
20. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Lake Superior Michigan
It is a US National Lakeshore on the shore of Lake Superior also known for multicolored Pictured Rocks Cliffs, an apt place for hiking and camping. I spent 5 hours here and did not want to leave the place.
You must see Chapel Rock and Grand Sable Dunes, they are my favorites.
Related:Michigan Bucket List
Where To Stay
Book Your Tour–Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket
Read: Easy DIY Christmas Decorations Ideas
21.Great Sand Dunes National Park
People come here to see huge dunes. Located in Colorado, you will see America’s tallest sand dunes here. The park is also known for beautiful alpine lakes.
Medano Creek is one of my favorites here. The place is perfect for swimming.
This park is perfect for outdoor activities like sandboarding and camping.
22.Big Sur, California
Big Sur is one of the most terrific places in California. It has a beautiful scenic drive, amazing beaches, beautiful state parks. I love Julia Pfeiffer, Garrapata, Limekiln, and Andrew Molera State Park.
The best beaches are Pfeiffer, Sand Dollar, Carmel. McWay Falls is not to be missed.
23. Zion National Park, Utah
It is one of the most spectacular places I have ever seen in my life. A perfect place for nature lovers and adventurers. Zion National Park is located in Springdale.
What really fascinated me are the walls which are reddish. Horseback riding is very popular here.
Many trails are found in Zion which is apt to do hikes. The Narrows and Angels Landing are two of my favorite spots.
Taylor Creek is preferred by most of the visitors and it is a must-see and looks beautiful at sunset.
Touchstone is one of the most famous routes here. Take a scenic drive and it will blow your mind.
I loved ZionMount Carmel Highway. Weeping Rock is just spectacular. Canyoneering is one of the most popular activities here.
Museum-lovers can visit the Human History Museum. Don’t forget to visit Checkerboard Mesa which is a beautiful rock formation.
For accommodations Zion Lodge is available. People with kids also like to stay here for 2-3 days as there are a lot of things to do here like rock climbing and camping.
Read:
Complete Guide To Zion National Park
Where To Eat-Zion National Park
Where To Stay
Book Your Tour–Las Vegas: Zion And Bryce Canyon Small Group Tour
24.Lake Tahoe,Nevada
Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the US. You can do skiing, fishing, golfing, shopping almost everything here. It also has an amazing nightlife.
Emerald Bay State Park is one of the most popular destinations here. D.L Bliss State Park is another favorite.
25. Punalu’u Beach, Hawaii
It is one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen. The beach has black sand and is full of coconut trees.
Punalu’u is famous for Koa(fish house) where specific species of fish live in specific areas. It is a great place for camping, picnic and well suited for seeing turtles.
Related: Oahu Bucket List
Where To Stay
Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort
Book Your Tour–Pearl Harbor Uss Arizona Memorial Tour
Read:41 Thanksgiving Decor Ideas
26.Yosemite National Park,California
It is one of the most popular spots for nature lovers. It is loved by hikers and climbers. My favorite spots are Yosemite Falls, Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Glacier Point.
The other hot spring to watch out for is the beautiful Mammoth Hot Springs.
27.Hamilton Pool Preserve, Texas
One of the most underrated and hidden pools is Hamilton Pool which is 23 miles west of Texas. It is a natural pool that has a 50-foot high waterfall.
Many people are still unaware of its existence but it is a pure delight.
Read: Top 257 Things to Do In Texas
28.Sequoia National Park, California
The popular General Sherman Tree was the first thing I saw and I was pretty impressed.
Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is a 50-mile route but the experience is breathtaking. Don’t miss Crystal Cave here.
29.Fly Geyser,Nevada
It is one of the most fascinating things I have ever seen, pure beauty. It is located in Washoe County Nevada.
When I saw the picture for the first time I was really mesmerized by its beauty.
The multicolored water is the result of algae and sulfur. This is truly one of the most unique places in the USA.
30.Aztec Ruins National Monument
You can see the beautifully preserved structures in New Mexico. This historic monument is listed on the National Register Of Historic Places.
You will love the beautiful trails. This archaeological site is a great spot for history lovers.
Read:49 Must See Places In USA
31.Antelope Canyon, Arizona
The wavy rock is an eye-catcher and it is a perfect Instagram photo opportunity. It has two sections Upper Antelope Cayon and Lower Antelope Canyon.
Both the hikes are spectacular but Lower Antelope Canyon is tougher and has narrow places. You need to take a guided tour.
32.Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska
This 13.6 miles long glacier offers a number of Instagram moments. Honestly, I went there to capture the sheer beauty of this natural wonder.
Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center offers interpretive programs for tourists.
Read: 21 Spooky DIY Halloween Decoration Ideas
33.Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
It is one of the most popular national parks in Utah. The view is simply mindblowing. Some of my favorite spots are Bryce Point, Inspiration Point, Fairyland Canyon, and Sunset Point.
Don’t forget to take a helicopter ride. The view from the top is simply breathtaking.
34.Jacob’s Well, Texas
Located in Texas, Jacob’s Well is one of the most unique places in the US. Those who are aware of this well, love to come back here.
The places you can see nearby are Cypress Falls, swimming hole, Blue Hole Regional Park, Bootiful Wembley.
35.Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
It is located near Page in Arizona and is one of the most sought-after places especially because of its horseshoe shape rock.
It is just 5 miles from Grand Canyon National Park.
36.Chiricahua National Monument
The place is known for its unique balanced rock formation. This national park is located in Arizona. Visit the Visitor Center to know about the trails and to know about the natural history of the monument.
The place is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and camping.
37.Grand Canyon National Park
North Rim and South Rim are the two major areas here. It is 277 miles long and it is one of the most popular places in the USA.
The other great spots are North Kaibab Trail, Havasu Falls, and Skywalk. You will love river rafting here.
38.Forestiere Underground Gardens
It is one of the historical landmarks in California. Located in Fresno the place has 65 rooms and has beautiful subterranean structures.
It has got its place in the National Register Of Historic Places.
39.Utah Hot Springs
Utah Hot Springs just blew me away. I thought I was in Iceland. It was surreal. I loved Meadow Hot Springs. It is so clean and clear. Located near Monroe, Mystic Hot Springs is another favorite.
You must see Fifth Water and Crystal Hot Springs as well. The hikers will surely love Diamond Fork Hot Springs.
40.The Wave, Arizona
It is certainly one of the most unique places to visit in the USA. The spiral shape of the rocks looks spectacular.
Since not more than 20 people are allowed per day, you need to take Coyote Buttes North permit.
41.Amelia Island
Located in Florida, it is one of the best-hidden gems in the USA. The sandy beaches are beautiful here.
It is a great place for kayaking and canoeing. There are beautiful golf courses. You can experience wildlife here.
Fernandina Beach is known for its amazing shopping malls and restaurants.
42.Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
It is another popular national park. Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the US.
Another popular spot is Old Faithful Geyser. I simply loved Morning Glory Pool.
If you are interested in wildlife then you must visit Hayden Valley.
43.Dinosaur National Monument
Located in Utah, you will see fossils of dinosaurs as well as their skulls embedded in the rock.
It also offers amazing scenic views. The place is perfect of rafting and hiking also.
44.Oneonta Gorge, Oregon
Known for peculiar woodland and aquatic plants, Oneonta Gorge is one of the most amazing places located in the Columbian River Gorge.
It is truly spectacular.
45.Weeki Wachee Spring
It is a great tourist attraction in Florida. You will see amazing performances by mermaids. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is perfect for boat rides and water slides.
It is great for kayaking, boating, and picnicking.
Don’t miss Buccaneer Bay on your visit to Weeki Wachee, it is a fun place for family.
46.Watkins Glen State Park, New York
This park is most famous for surreal Finger Lakes State Park.
You will get a lot of amazing views to capture for your Instagram handle.
47.Natural Rock Face, Alaska
Located in Petersburg, it is mostly famous for its unique rock shape which resembles a face.
It is near Sumdum Glacier and certainly one of the unique places to visit in the US.
48.Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Comprising of seven beautiful islands, this is one of the most surreal places in the US.
You can access it only by boat. It is a great place to do snorkeling and camping. It is located 70 miles from Key West.
49.Kelleys Island
It is located in Ohio and is certainly one of the hidden gems in the US. Kelleys Island State Park is perfect for kayaking and camping. For hikers, North Shore Loop Trail is a great option.
The beautiful Glacial Grooves will certainly make you want to visit this island again and again.
50.Ave Maria Grotto
Located in Alabama, Ave Maria Grotto is a perfect weekend getaway. It has got its place in the National Register Of Historic Places.
This beautiful park includes miniatures of popular structures of the world.
51.International Car Forest
Located in Nevada, it is creativity at its best. It is a collection of beautiful art installations.
You will see beautiful art displayed on cars. It is a great photo opportunity.
52.San Luis Obispo
It is located in California and is also called the Happiest City In America. The farmer’s market is very popular here. Pismo Beach is a beautiful beach in San Luis Obispo and a great place to unwind.
Avila Beach is another spectacular beach. Oceano Dunes offers a spectacular view.
53.Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky is one of the best places for skiing in the US. It is great for, horseback riding, hiking and camping too.
Ousel Falls is an amazing hiking trail. For music lovers, Town Center Park is ideal as they organize musical concerts.
54.Mount Hood National Forest
Located in Oregon, this forest is known for beautiful alpine lakes. Mount Hood Scenic Loop is simply spectacular. The forest is also known for Timberline Lodge which is considered National Historic Landmark.
It is also known for amazing ski resorts.
55.Ausable Chasm
It is one of the best-hidden gems of New York City.
There are beautiful trails and it is perfect for rock climbing and river rafting.
Inner Sanctum trail is my favorite here.
56.Kodiak Island
This beautiful island is located in Alaska. Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park is one of the most sought-after places.
The island is known for its spectacular scenic view.
57.Block Island
Located in Rhode Island, the island is known for its amazing scenic view. The view from Mohegan Bluffs is spectacular.
I loved Mansion Beach. It is also known for its beautiful lighthouses. There are beautiful trails like Clay Head Nature Trail and Hodge Family Wild Preserve. Ballard’s Beach is another beautiful beach.
You will love the helicopter tour here.
58.The Glory Hole Waterfall
It is one of the most unique waterfalls in Ozark National Forest, Arkansas.
This waterfall is natural beauty at its best.
59.Neptune Memorial Reef
It will certainly be one of the most adventurous diving experiences for you. Located in Miami, Florida this man-made is one of the biggest ever.
Though it is a memorial, the underwater experience makes it worth a visit.
60.Ice Castles
Located in New Hampshire, Ice Castles is a great example of creativity. Everything is made of ice.
It is one of the best outings during winter.
Travel Essentials
For a smooth ride, we need some travel essentials whether a camera, phone, clothes, bags, shoes, and many other things so I always prefer to buy from amazon.com because I can buy anything from here.
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Accommodations
A good hotel with a good location is very important and we need a lot of options so that we can choose our favorite so I use Booking.com or Agoda.com
Flights
Skyscanner and Trip.com are my favorites to book flights as I always get the best deals from here.
Travel Insurance
If anything happens to our luggage or if we have an accident or anything, if you have good travel insurance it will cover you. So I always prefer Worlds Nomad.
Tours
Get Your Guide and Viator give the best tour options including tickets
I am planning to visit these places again as they are quite unique in their own ways.
If you know any other equally unique places share with me and don’t forget to share your travel stories.
If you like this article share it with your friends and families and book your flights for these exotic locales.
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I live by the Appalachian Mountains but I’ve always wanted to check out the Rocky Mountains! Thanks for sharing
you will love it Renee
Umpqua National Forest in Oregon looks beautiful. I would love to visit.
It was quite a unique experience. You will love it Cherise.
these places look wonderful and a fun place to visit
They are really wonderful
I like how you mixed up different types of places, from mountains to beaches and more! These look like some promising places to visit.
Thanks Vasundhra
These are some amazing places that I would love to go and visit. The Rocky Mountains would be first on my list because I love going hiking in the mountains.
Its amazing
The US has so many ‘hidden treasures’. I was not familiar with most of the places on your list. Good stuff!
Thanks Mike
All of these places are really beautiful and perfect nature and I hope I have a chance to visit these places someday awesome photos!
Thanks
I didn’t even know that some of these places exist. We really need to start traveling more.
I wish you a happy journey
Oh wow! I need to get out and travel. These places look amazing! I will be bookmarking this article. Thank you!
Thanks Patty
Amazing to see the landscape and its many colours and facets!
Thanks Katy
I think I have beern to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, I have to ask my mom because I was young if I went. I used to live in North Dakota and the whole state seems like a national park with wonderful scenes!
Its awesome
Theodore Roosevelt National Park and Rocky Mountains look really gorgeous. I would love to explore them on my visit.
Thanks Anshul
I am always amazed at how many beautiful places we have here! Just in AZ alone we have several amazing must see places.
Thanks Luna you have given me a new topic to blog.
Can I suggest one? Area 51 lol I’m just kidding. Mine favorite are Rocky mountains and Roosevelt national park. Thanks for putting a great list!
Thanks Anna,if you have any suggestions you are most welcome
Good plases for Traveling ..good post.
Keep write
Thanks Dushan
Time for a road trip! I need to go see all of these amazing places!
Each one of these places loo beautiful. Wish I was able to transport myself to a few of them now.
You can, just book the tickets and in few hours you will be there.
I love the Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park on our way there!! You have definitely added to my Bucket List with these..beautiful pictures and love the ideas on where to stay!!
It’s really marvellous
I NEED To go to that forest in Oregon! It looks so beautiful!
Amazing photos. The West is the best!
Thanks Sue,I completely agree
This is a fantastic list! We are doing a tour of the southwest over winter break. I can’t wait!
The falls in Oregon look so majestic, and the nature so lush. I would love to visit that part of the world.
Wow I didn’t realise that the US was so diverse. It’s such an underrated country. Your photos are fab 🙂
Thanks Zoe
Man, I’d love to visit all those places. 🙂 They look amazing.
Yes they are
So many beautiful places here! I need to visit a couple of time in my lifetime. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks Danielle
wow!! so beautiful, enjoy viewing all the captures shared here
Thanks for sharing this & wishing I can visit US one day
cheers
siennylovesdrawing
Thank you
Isnt the Stanley Hotel the place where The Shining was written about? That would be an awesome place to stay!!!
Correct Emme
Gosh, they certainly look amazing. It’d be even better to see ’em in person. Great post.