The Grand Canyon, Arizona
Camping, hiking, guided tours — there are so many ways to explore the Grand Canyon. As the second most-visited U.S. national park (after the Great Smoky Mountains) this geological wonder traverses more than 278 miles of the Colorado River and the surrounding terrain.
Times Square, New York City
Referred to by Civitatis as ‘the liveliest area of New York City’, Times Square is the place to be for food, shopping, sightseeing and entertainment in NYC. While travelers will recognize this bustling spot for its colorful billboards, flashing lights and constant crowds (nearly 330,000 people each day), Times Square wasn’t always the tourist hotspot it is today. In fact, the area’s popularity didn’t take hold until the mid-90s to early 2000s thanks to a redevelopment project that resulted in the vibrant plaza that we see today.
Golden Gate Bridge, California
The endcap of America’s beautiful west coast, California is home to one of the most charming cities in the country, San Francisco. Famous for its eclectic architecture, old-timey cable cars and exciting wharf, San Francisco is popular amongst tourists looking for a taste of California living. While the area has many popular sights — Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary, China Town, Fisherman’s Wharf, Golden Gate Park — the most iconic landmark in the city is undoubtedly the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge.
Gateway Arch, St. Louis
In the midwest, travelers can see the world from a new perspective at St. Louis’ fabled Gateway Arch. Founded by the National Park Service in 1935, this unique monument was erected in honor of Thomas Jefferson’s vision of a transcontinental United States. The arch stands 630-feet tall and stretches from the St. Louis’ historic Old Courthouse to a set of stairs overlooking the beautiful Mississippi River.
Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas
With bright lights, endless entertainment and extravagantly themed hotels, there’s a reason Las Vegas is referred to as the ultimate playground. And while there are still plenty of opportunities for travelers to partake in “traditional” Vegas activities — think testing one’s luck at a blackjack table or getting hitched by an Elvis impersonator — today’s Sin City isn’t exactly the same as your grandma might remember it. Instead, the Gambling Capital of the World has undergone something of a rebrand over the past few years making it brighter, bolder and tastier for every type of traveler.
Florida Keys, Florida
Travelers hoping to experience a taste of island life on the mainland will love the Florida Keys. An archipelago consisting of approximately 1,700 islands, the Florida Keys stretch over 180 miles with 42 bridges — the most notable of which is the Seven Mile Bridge — connecting each key to the next. Of the many islands to choose from, a handful are the most visited by tourists including Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and Key West. While each key emits laid-back energy, they all have a distinct personality making it important for travelers with limited time to know which activities they’re itching to try the U.S. Capitol, Washington DC
S. Capitol, Washington DC
Washington DC is one of the most visited cities in the country and is certainly worth adding to your travel bucket list. As an important site for American history and government, there are a wide variety of museums, monuments and significant spots waiting to be explored. What’s more, Washington DC is world-renowned for its art collections, cultural attractions and culinary scene making it a place of interest for many travelers. Best of all, several of these famous points of interest are free and open to the public.ost.
Zion National Park, Utah
While Utah may not be the first state to come to mind when you think of vacation, its dramatic scenery makes it the perfect destination for nature lovers. The Beehive State is home to several scenic parks including Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Canyonlands National Park and more. However, there’s one natural beauty that will really blow your socks off, Zion National Park.
French Quarter, New Orleans
Beignets, European-inspired architecture, jazz and spooky vibes, what’s not to love about charming New Orleans? Pair this with incredible southern flavors and raging parties — on Mardi Gras and every day of the year — and we can only be talking about one place, the French Quarter.
The Bean, Chicago
What’s flashy and metallic and weighs roughly the same as 15 adult elephants? Chicago’s magnificent bean of course! The Bean, aka Cloud Gate, is one of those attractions that make you ask, “why?” However, as random as it may seem, there’s no denying that The Bean offers a certain amount of allure.