The Most Beautiful Place in the USA: Exploring Nature's Allure

Voting rules: Choose the location you think is the most beautiful!

Jun 16, 2023 10:17 (Updated on Dec 4, 2023 05:51)

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the USA like never before with StrawPoll's ultimate ranking of the most beautiful places! From awe-inspiring national parks to stunning coastlines and picturesque small towns, our great nation has it all. But which location truly deserves the crown? It's time for you to cast your vote and have your say! Explore our carefully curated list of America's most enchanting destinations and vote for your favorite, or suggest a hidden gem we may have missed. Don't miss out on this captivating journey through the USA's most scenic wonders - dive in now and help us crown the undisputed king of beauty!

What Is the Most Beautiful Place in the USA?

1

46
votes
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

One of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, the Grand Canyon offers incredible views of deep canyons, red rock formations, and the Colorado River.
Description

The Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, USA, is an awe-inspiring natural wonder known for its vast size, stunning geological formations, and breathtaking views. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon stretches approximately 277 miles (446 km) long, up to 18 miles (29 km) wide, and reaches a depth of over a mile (1.6 km) deep. Its sheer beauty and geological significance attract millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the world.

Location: Arizona, USA

Size: Approximately 277 miles (446 km) long

Width: Up to 18 miles (29 km) wide

Depth: Over a mile (1.6 km) deep

Age: Millions of years old
2

48
votes
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

U.S. Congress

Home to geysers, hot springs, and wildlife, Yellowstone is a unique and stunning destination that offers endless outdoor adventures.
Description

Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in Wyoming, is considered one of the most beautiful places in the USA. It is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, geothermal features, and diverse wildlife. The park was established by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872.

Location: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

Size: 2.2 million acres

Geothermal Features: Over 10,000 geysers and hot springs, including the famous Old Faithful geyser

Yellowstone Lake: The largest high-elevation lake in North America

Wildlife: Home to diverse species including grizzly bears, gray wolves, bison, elk, and bald eagles
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming in other rankings
- Position 6 of 10 in Most popular destination for a summer vacation
3

20
votes

Hawaii

With its gorgeous beaches, volcanic landscapes, and lush rainforests, Hawaii is a paradise that's hard to beat.
4

13
votes
Niagara Falls, New York

This iconic waterfall is a must-see destination that never fails to impress visitors with its sheer power and beauty.
Description

Niagara Falls, New York is a majestic natural wonder located on the border of the United States and Canada. The falls are a stunning display of cascading water and dramatic beauty, attracting millions of visitors each year. The thunderous roar of the water combined with the mist rising from the falls creates an awe-inspiring experience for all who witness it. The surrounding area offers incredible views, lush greenery, and a wide range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

Location: Niagara Falls, New York, and Ontario, Canada

Height: The American Falls - approximately 180 feet (55 meters), The Horseshoe Falls - approximately 167 feet (51 meters)

Width: The American Falls - approximately 1,100 feet (335 meters), The Horseshoe Falls - approximately 2,600 feet (792 meters)

Flow Rate: The combined flow rate of Niagara Falls is estimated to be around 85,000 cubic feet per second (2,400 cubic meters per second)

Water Source: Niagara River, which connects Lake Erie and Lake Ontario
5

19
votes
Yosemite National Park, California

Theodore Roosevelt

With its soaring cliffs, giant sequoias, and stunning waterfalls, Yosemite is a natural wonderland that's sure to take your breath away.
Description

Yosemite National Park is a stunning natural reserve located in the western Sierra Nevada mountains of California. It is renowned for its majestic granite cliffs, clear streams, waterfalls, and giant sequoia groves, with an area of approximately 748,436 acres. The park showcases breathtaking landscapes that have been shaped by glaciers and offers a diverse range of ecosystems, including valleys, meadows, and ancient forests.

Location: California, United States

Size: Approximately 748,436 acres

Elevation: 2,127 to 13,114 feet (648 to 3,997 meters)

Year Established: October 1, 1890

Notable Features: Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls
Yosemite National Park, California in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most beautiful landscape
6

12
votes
Adam Baker from Houston / Moscow / Toulouse (travel a lot) · CC BY 2.0

Sedona, Arizona

Known for its red rock formations and spiritual energy, Sedona is a peaceful and picturesque destination that's perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Description

Sedona, Arizona is a breathtakingly beautiful city nestled in the midst of the stunning red rock formations of the Coconino National Forest. Known for its vibrant and diverse natural scenery, Sedona is often referred to as a spiritual and sacred place. The city offers a unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and a rich cultural heritage.

Location: Arizona, United States

Elevation: 4,350 feet (1,326 meters)

Geology: Red rock formations

Climate: Mild four-season climate

Activities: Hiking, biking, rock climbing, photography, spiritual retreats
Sedona, Arizona in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful small town in America
- Position 7 of 10 in Most beautiful place in the United States
7

12
votes
U.S. National Park Service · Public domain

Glacier National Park, Montana

This stunning park boasts rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and incredible wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Description

Glacier National Park, located in the state of Montana, is one of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring destinations in the United States. It encompasses over one million acres of pristine wilderness, including rugged mountains, picturesque lakes, and glaciers. The park is renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, rich biodiversity, and outstanding recreational opportunities.

Location: Montana, USA

Size: Over 1 million acres

Scenic Features: Rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and glaciers

Biodiversity: Home to over 70 species of mammals and over 270 species of birds

Glaciers: Contains 25 named glaciers
8

10
votes
Acadia National Park, Maine

President Woodrow Wilson

With its rocky coastline, dense forests, and stunning views, Acadia is a true gem on the East Coast.
Description

Acadia National Park, located in the state of Maine, is a breathtaking part of the New England region known for its stunning natural beauty. It encompasses a diverse terrain that includes rocky coastlines, pristine lakes, dense forests, and towering mountains. The park offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor activities, abundant wildlife, and picturesque landscapes.

Location: Mount Desert Island and several smaller coastal islands in Maine

Size: 49,052 acres (19,851 hectares)

Established: July 8, 1916

Elevation: Mount Cadillac - 1,530 feet (466 meters)

Scenic Drive: Park Loop Road - 27 miles (43 kilometers)
Acadia National Park, Maine in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most beautiful nature in New England
9

10
votes
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal-clear water, Lake Tahoe is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Description

Lake Tahoe is a breathtakingly beautiful ski resort located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, straddling the border of California and Nevada. The area is known for its crystal-clear, blue waters, snow-capped peaks, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. The resort offers a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, and more. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery and outdoor activities throughout all seasons.

Location: Sierra Nevada mountains on the border of California and Nevada

Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, water sports, and more

Trails/Runs: Over 100 trails, with nearly 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, and 30% advanced/expert

Lifts: Over 30 lifts and gondolas

Elevation: Highest peak is at 10,067 feet (3,068 meters)
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful lake in America
- Position 7 of 10 in Most beautiful ski resorts in the USA
10

5
votes
Monument Valley, Arizona/Utah

This iconic landscape of towering sandstone buttes and mesas has been featured in countless movies and is a truly breathtaking sight to behold.
Description

Monument Valley is a remarkable landscape located in the border region of Arizona and Utah, USA. It is characterized by its iconic sandstone buttes, towering mesas, and vast desert plains. The unique combination of stunning natural formations and expansive vistas makes Monument Valley one of the most awe-inspiring and visually striking places in the United States.

Location: Arizona/Utah, USA

Geology: Sandstone buttes and mesas

Formation: Erosion by wind and water

Size: Approximately 91,700 acres

Elevation: Ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 feet

Missing your favorite location?

Graphs

Discussion

Ranking factors for beautiful place

Natural beauty

The presence of stunning landscapes, mountains, beaches, forests, lakes, and rivers that provide a breathtaking visual experience.
Biodiversity

Richness of flora and fauna found in the region, including rare and endemic species that add to the overall beauty and ecological significance of the place.
Climate

Pleasant weather conditions, such as temperate climate, mild seasons with comfortable temperatures, and low humidity, will contribute to the overall charm and attractiveness of a location.
Scenic vistas and landmarks

Iconic views, famous attractions, and landmarks that draw tourists and photographers from around the world.
Cultural and historical significance

A place's history and cultural heritage, including historical buildings, monuments, museums, and art galleries, that add to the overall beauty and charm of the area.
Outdoor recreational opportunities

Availability of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, rafting, and water sports, that allow visitors to appreciate and enjoy the natural beauty.
Cleanliness and environmental preservation

Efforts made by the local authorities and residents to maintain a clean and healthy environment, such as pollution control, waste management, and protection of local ecosystems.
Infrastructure and accessibility

Good roads, infrastructure, and transportation options that make it easy for tourists to reach and explore the location.
Local hospitality

Friendly and welcoming locals who contribute to the overall atmosphere and experience of the place.
Safety and security

A place that is considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates and appropriate emergency services in place.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful place in the USA. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or location is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1984 views
195 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each location once every 24 hours. The rank of each location is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

Trendings topics

Don't miss out on the currently trending topics of StrawPoll Rankings!

More information on most beautiful place in the usa

The United States of America is known for its diverse landscapes and breathtaking natural wonders. From the Grand Canyon to the beaches of Hawaii, there is no shortage of beautiful places to explore. However, when it comes to determining the most beautiful place in the USA, opinions can vary widely. Some may argue that the rolling hills of Vermont are the epitome of beauty, while others may be captivated by the rugged coastline of California. With so many stunning destinations to choose from, the answer to this question is ultimately subjective. Nonetheless, we've compiled a list of the top contenders for the title of the most beautiful place in the USA, based on popular opinion and expert analysis.