20 Most Beautiful States in the USA in 2024

It’s no secret that the United States is a beautiful country.

The landscape varies from coast to coast, and each state has its own unique beauty to offer. From the Rocky Mountains in Colorado to the deserts of Arizona or California, there are plenty of places for you to explore and enjoy your time away from home.

These 20 states have been selected based on their natural beauty and unique attractions, with input from local travel experts.

Whether you’re planning a road trip or a weekend getaway, travelling solo or travelling with friends, you’ll find a beautiful destination to enjoy in the United States.

Start planning your next adventure by scrolling down and learning more about these gorgeous destinations!

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20 Most Beautiful States in the USA

1. Alaska

Alaska is not only the largest state in the U.S., its untamed beauty is uncontestable. A land of many ecosystems, it’s possible to experience everything from rainforests to glaciers.

There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in Alaska, starting with one of its most popular destinations, Denali National Park. This park encompasses what the entire state can show you, fantastic mountains, beautiful valleys and meadows, glacial rivers, and an abundance of North American wildlife. In the park, you can camp, hike, and visit a dog sledding camp.

Other notable places include: Seward – a coastal town with great fishing, Juneau – the capital of Alaska which is home to one of the best glaciers to visit, and Anchorage – the largest city which hosts amazing museums and restaurants representing all of Alaska.

The absolute best time to visit this beautiful state is between June and August. The temperatures are still cool in most places, but the foliage is green and stunning, and you will see wildflowers, especially fireweed, all over.

For the best experience, rent a car and head out in the early mornings and late evenings for spotting moose and other wildlife.

Submitted by Corinne Vail of Reflections Enroute

I recommend this tour of Alaska

2. Colorado

Colorado may seem flat and dry as the plane lands in Denver, but venture out a bit and it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most beautiful states in the USA. It’s bursting with adventure all year long.

Tip: Any time of year requires copious amounts of water, as the elevation is high and the oxygen is thin. This will help to avoid headaches and altitude sickness.

Also dress in layers, as weather changes rapidly in the mountains.

Rocky Mountain National Park is just one stop where there is plenty to enjoy. The famous Bear Lake is an easy walk around one of Colorado’s most popular and scenic lakes. At the same trailhead, a perfect hike will take you to Nymph, Dream, and Emerald Lake.

Worthwhile waterfalls include the Alluvial Fan, Alberta Falls, and Copeland Falls, all of which are shorter hikes.

Check the weather and start early. Afternoon storms are common!

For a mountain getaway, Breckenridge is at the top of the list.

From mountain biking and hiking in the summer to skiing in the winter, it’s perfect any time of year. McCullough Gulch hike ascends to an incredible waterfall perched near the top of the mountain.

Visit Isak Hearstone, a giant woodland troll that’s just a short walk away. Or hike at Breckenridge Resort where there are incredible views and flowing rivers.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is a must-see as well. It’s home to the tallest sand dunes in North America and sits at the foot of the San Juan Mountains.

Rent some equipment to go sledding or boarding down the dunes.

It gets incredibly hot, so the best time to visit Colorado is early spring or fall.

In spring, nearby Medano Creek will be flowing to help keep you cool!

Submitted by Megan of Let’s Jet, Kids!

I recommend this tour of Colorado by Jeep.

3. Virginia

There is an abundance of natural beauty in Virginia. You’ll find tumbling waterfalls, majestic mountain ranges, gorgeous state and national parks, and unspoiled stretches of coastline. It’s no wonder it’s considered one of the prettiest states in America.

That’s not to mention more than 500 miles of the iconic white-blazed Appalachian Trail, as well as scenic byways, like Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Fall wows with dramatic bursts of golden yellow and fiery amber foliage across Virginia. There’s no better place to savor the mosaic of fall leaves than at Shenandoah National Park. Motor the length of the park along 105-mile Skyline Drive for spectacular colors. More than 75 overlooks beg park visitors to brake for stunning views across the Shenandoah Valley.

In winter, Virginia kicks up the fun thanks to four ski resorts, including Wintergreen Resort in Central Virginia. Savor the views of snow-covered mountains from the snow tubing lanes or ski slopes. Wintergreen Resort also has more than 30 miles of wooded hiking trails. The quiet waterfall hike to Shamokin Falls is a must-do.

Summer is just right for strolling the three-mile boardwalk in Virginia Beach. Off the sand, explore the ViBe Creative District to ogle dozens of colorful murals, like the “Greetings from Virginia Beach” mural. Visit Mount Trashmore, a popular city park that was once an abandoned landfill. It’s also a popular spot to fly a kite.

Rounding out the seasons, Roanoke is tops as a springtime destination. Tackle the Roanoke Star hike to the world’s largest man-made star that stands proud at 100 feet tall. A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which skirts to the east of downtown, awes visitors in spring with brightly-colored wildflowers and flowering shrubs.

Submitted by Erin Gifford of Go Hike Virginia

I recommend this beach tour of Virginia

4. North Carolina

North Carolina stretches from the mountains to the sea, encompassing the highest peaks in the East and barrier islands with fragile marshland. It’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. And the warm, friendly people make the state a joy to explore.

When visiting NC, you can’t miss the western part of the state, with five spectacular mountain ranges to hike and paddle in. You can drive and hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway from Great Smoky Mountains National Park all the way to Virginia, never leaving the mountains’ ridgeline. Asheville is the “urban” center of the region, but it feels like a small mountain town that happens to have a world-class food and beer scene.

Alternatively, head to the Outer Banks. The beaches and coastal ecosystems are magical at sunrise. These aren’t party beaches — they’re remote island getaways where you could forget to check your phone for a week while you camp amidst the sand dunes.

In between is the Piedmont, the vast region of rolling hills. Chapel Hill is the ideal Piedmont destination, with its charming university campus and local shops and cafes.

North Carolina is at its best in autumn. September to November brings crisp mornings and warm, sunny days. The state has one of the country’s longest fall foliage displays due to the huge differences in elevation.

Tent camping provides the widest range of accommodation options. RV’ing is possible, but not ideal on the rough roads and deep backcountry in the mountains. And fully equipped campgrounds fill up fast in autumn.

If you don’t want to rough it, no worries — most small towns have at least one cute B&B or guesthouse.

Submitted by Carrie Mann of Trains Planes and Tuk Tuks

5. Oregon

The locals from here know how beautiful the state of Oregon is, but it is often overlooked by outside visitors. The natural beauty of Oregon is unrivaled: snow-capped mountain peaks, dramatic waterfalls, temperate rainforests, glaciers, and stunning coastal landscapes.

It’s underrated as one of the prettiest US states.

If you’re taking a trip to Oregon, be sure to spend some time driving along the Oregon Coast Highway. It stretches for over 300 miles and is considered to be one of the most scenic highways in the world by many. There are numerous pretty beaches and attractions along the way but some highlights include Seal Rock, Astoria, and Cape Kiwanda.

Bend is definitely the one place you should not pass by. This little city is situated on the banks of the Deschutes River, flanked by the Cascade Mountains to the west (along with its numerous gorgeous lakes). Hiking and backpacking opportunities are plentiful, but visit in the winter to check out all its skiing resorts too. If you are looking for a unique experience, stop by the Newberry National Volcanic Monument to see the longest lava tube in Oregon!

Head over to Crater Lake National Park, home to a lake of the same name. It is known for its crystal clear water and brilliant blue color. It was formed due to a collapse of a volcano thousands of years ago and is the deepest lake in the US.

The best time to visit Oregon is during the peak season, from June to August. Although the prices will be higher (reservations are essential), you will get to enjoy more sunlight.

Between October and May, Oregon is famous for its gray skies and rainy weather so be sure to pack your rain gear.

Submitted by John Vo of Your Destination is Everywhere

I recommend this hiking and waterfall tour

6. Georgia

From colorful tree-covered mountains to untamed barrier islands, the state of Georgia has a diverse landscape that offers a little something for every style of traveler. It’s easily one of the prettiest states in America.

Although it’s difficult to choose the most beautiful area in the state, Georgia’s Coast is hard to beat! Approximately one-third of all the tidal marshland on the East Coast (of the U.S.) can be found in Georgia, and much of it is preserved as private property.

Guests can wander down Ossabaw Island’s alley of oaks in the hopes of spotting wild donkeys grazing near the island’s few remaining abandoned slave cabins; the entire island is designated as a Heritage Preserve and protected for its cultural significance.

Cumberland Island’s National Seashore offers 50 miles of trails that wind through maritime forests, and it’s not uncommon to spot feral horses running along its windswept beaches.

Nearby Savannah’s Historic District is one of the most popular destinations in the entire state. Its streets are lined with centuries-old mansions and Southern live oaks dripping in Spanish moss.

It’s known as a foodies city, and visitors love filling up on Southern cooking at popular spots like The Olde Pink House and Treylor Park.

The most popular time of year to visit Savannah is during the springtime when the azaleas are in bloom, but fall is also incredible.

Further north, the mountains are a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts and photographers in search of spectacular fall colors. From Brasstown Bald to Tallulah Gorge, Georgia’s leaf peeping opportunities peak from September to November.

During the Christmas season, Dahlonega and Helen are two of the most charming mountain spots to visit to experience holiday cheer.

Submitted by Erin Clarkson of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

This trolley tour will take you to the best of Savannah!

7. Maryland

As one of the 13 original colonies, Maryland is rich with American history and sites like a civil war battlefield that can be visited year-round. However, with over 3,000 miles of coastline, many of the most popular activities and prettiest places in the state are typically enjoyed in the warmer weather.

Maryland’s seaside capital, Annapolis, sits on the Chesapeake Bay and is one of the prettiest cities in the state. The Colonial Annapolis Historic District downtown and the Harborside area house many national historical landmarks. These gorgeous historical buildings and18th century architecture make Annapolis a very pleasant city to walk through.

Although Annapolis is the capital of Maryland, Baltimore is its largest city and it also has quite a few sites to turn your head. As Baltimore’s top tourist site, the Inner Harbor should not be missed. There are museums, a world-class aquarium, and fabulous observatories with miles of sweeping views!

For those who prefer smaller towns, Saint Michaels offers picture-perfect streets to stroll with wonderfully restored Victorian homes and boutique shops. One of the biggest draws is the Hopper Straight Lighthouse which has to be the cutest in Maryland.

Even smaller still and quite quaint is the town of Berlin, near Ocean City. Famed as the set for the 1999 movie Runaway Bride, it is charming with its art galleries, antique stores, and the historic Atlantic Hotel at its center.

Berlin is also the entrance for Assateague Island, perhaps the most beautiful spot in the state of Maryland, especially for nature lovers. With pristine beaches, miles of nature trails, and hundreds of species of wildlife, Assateague is a hidden gem on the Eastern shore of Maryland.

Submitted by Denise Macuk of Chef Denise

I recommend this historical tour of Baltimore

8. Maine

With the rocky coastline, crashing Atlantic Ocean waves, lighthouses, and lush inland wilderness, Maine is undoubtedly one of the prettiest states in the USA.

A visit to Maine is all about the natural beauty of the state, being home to one of the Northeast’s most picturesque national parks, some of the best areas for night sky viewing, and native wildlife-filled forests.

To fully see the beauty of Maine and enjoy the contrasting landscapes, you will want to combine a drive along the Maine coastline with a visit to the inland wilderness area.

Start off by driving the coastline, beginning in the Southern part of the state. Along the way make stops in some of the prettiest and most charming towns in Maine, like Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, and Cape Elizabeth.

Stop at the many state parks along the way and visit some of Maine’s most well-known lighthouses like the Portland Head Lighthouse or the Cape Neddick Lighthouse.

When you reach Bar Harbor, one of Maine’s most beautiful towns, explore Acadia National Park, where you can drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain, swim at Sand Beach, or hear the monstrous roaring at Thunder Hole.

After you have had your share of the Maine coast, head inland to the Maine Highlands. Here you will find very different, but just as stunning views of Maine. In the Maine Highlands, you can go on a moose viewing adventure, head out on a hike, or go bird watching.

The best time of year to visit Maine is late summer/early fall. During this time, you will find pleasant weather and fewer crowds, as the summer crowd has left and the leaf peeping crowds have not yet arrived.

Of course, if you are looking to see the breathtaking display of fall colors, you will want to push your visit off until early October.

Submitted by Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Take this day biking trip from Portland

9. New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a spectacularly beautiful state — yet so many people overlook it in favor of Vermont and Maine. But this is a state that will stun you with its spectacular natural beauty.

In New Hampshire, you have mountains and lakes in every direction — plus a nice little slice of coastline. The state is so small that you can drive from corner to corner in just a few hours, making it all the more exceptional.

The White Mountains are heaven for hikers. One hike that visitors love is Artist’s Bluff in Franconia Notch — it’s an easy, short hike with one of the best views in the state.

Another special thing to do is to take the Mount Washington Cog Railway — or the Cog, as locals call it! This train is one of the steepest mountain-climbing rail journeys in the world, and it takes you to the highest point in the Northeast US, where you’ll find clouds swirling around you.

The prettiest small town in New Hampshire is Sugar Hill, up in Franconia Notch. You get rolling hills, steepled churches, old barns, and the occasional vintage fire truck. And Portsmouth is a lovely city on the Seacoast with brightly painted historic homes and the best dining in the state.

If you’re looking to visit New Hampshire for fall foliage, early October is your best bet. Just know that it will be very busy with leaf peepers.

Mid-September as well is popular with locals — you’re getting early blushes of color with warm weather and bright blue skies, and far fewer tourists than August or October!

Submitted by Kate McCulley of New Hampshire Way

I love this bike tour of New Hamphsire

10. Idaho

Idaho is widely known for its potatoes, but did you also know it has more designated wilderness than any other state in the contiguous United States?

Idaho shares much of the wild, unbridled beauty of its neighbor states, like Washington and Montana, but without all of the crowds of more popular tourist destinations.

For the picture of pristine natural beauty of this American state, head to the tiny town of Stanley, which sits at the feet of the dramatically jagged Sawtooth Mountains. Here, you can hike under the branches of soaring Ponderosa pine forests, raft down the white water rapids of the Salmon River, and relax in Stanley’s hot springs, where you can take in the picturesque views of the rolling mountains and epic valleys.

For something totally different, check out Craters of the Moon National Monument, where a volcanic eruption has left an ashen landscape that feels like something straight out of a science fiction novel.

About two and a half hours southwest from the monument, you’ll find the clearest, most vibrantly colored pool of water, Blue Heart Springs, just waiting to be kayaked through.

While most of Idaho’s beauty lies in its wild natural landscape, its cities, like Boise, are absolutely worth exploring as well. Boise has enough hip coffee shops, craft breweries, and art galleries to please even the most urbane visitor.

While Idaho’s snowy mountains provide an excellent playground for skiers and snowboarders, it’s best to visit in the middle of summer, when the snow is melted at high elevations, the wildflowers are blooming, and Idaho’s sheer beauty is at its peak.

Submitted by Jessica Schmit of Uprooted Traveler

I love this off-road tour through the forests

11. Washington State

While it’s undeniable that the United States is filled with beautiful destinations, there’s no greater example of America’s natural beauty than Washington state.

Infamous for its ever-present veil of rain, this constant downpour results in the most stunning national parks. From the rugged coastline to the lush temperate rainforests and spectacular mountain ranges, Washington state is the ultimate US destination for those who love the outdoors.

But it offers more than just incredible national parks.

From Seattle, with its historic Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass (one of the best art galleries in the country) to the delightful coastal city of Bellingham, Washington state is filled with top-tier cities.

And one of the best cities in Washington state is Leavenworth, a German town located in the Cascade Mountains, around a two-hour drive from Seattle.

Other incredible day trips from Seattle include Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, Bainbridge Island, and Mount Saint Helens.

For those visiting for the breathtaking hikes and national parks (the real reason why Washington state is one of the prettiest US states), the best time to visit is in the summer, in July and August.

Unfortunately, this also means this is when there are more tourists, so for those hoping for smaller crowds, September is also a good option. However, remember to prepare for rainy weather when visiting Washington state, even in the summer!

Winter is also a great time to visit Washington state, offering a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboard, snowshoeing, and more!

Submitted by Mia of Walk a While with Me

Take this tour of Mount Rainier National Park

12. Floirida

Also known as the Sunshine State, Florida is one of the most beautiful destinations in America.

On one side, the state borders the Atlantic Ocean, and on the other side, the Gulf of Mexico.

Along the coast stretches miles of sandy beaches that are especially popular with surfers.

The city of Miami is also known for its great Latin American culture and art scene.

Annually, about 49 million tourists come to Florida.

The best time to go to Florida is spring or fall when daytime temperatures are between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. Between the months of June and November, hurricanes are common in Florida. Snow and freezing temperatures are rare.

Florida’s vast natural landscapes are home to many endangered species. In addition to various species of turtles are also crocodiles, panthers, white-tailed deer, and bald eagles.

The five largest cities in Florida are Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, Orlando and St. Petersburg. Miami and the adjacent Key Islands are always worth a visit. The Everglades, Biscayne and Dry Tortugas National Park also offers a lot to see and is perfect for a day trip.

In Orlando, you will find many different theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, which are perfect for little visitors.

If you are in the area, you should also stop at Caladesi Island State Park in the Clearwater region; the beach there was voted the most beautiful beach in the USA in 2008!

Submitted by Victoria of Guide your Travel

Take my favourite sunset tour of Key West at sunset!

13. Wyoming

Wyoming is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, so it easily makes the list of most beautiful states. 

It is home to the breathtaking Grand Teton National Park.  The park is dominated by the craggy Tetons Range and there are plenty of places to see the stunning views. The most photographed barn in the world is the Moulton Barn.  The photo of the picturesque barn, framed with the Teton peaks behind, is a classic.  Other Instagram-worthy spots include Oxbow Bend and Snake River Overlook.

Most of Yellowstone National Park is also in Wyoming.  Scenic highlights include the brightly colored hot springs such as Grand Prismatic Spring, the spectacular geysers, and one of the most incredible waterfalls in the country, the Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls.  The falls are in the equally stunning, multi-colored Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Another highlight is the amazing Devils Tower National Monument.  The enormous pillar of rock rises straight out of the prairie plains. 

While the natural scenery in Wyoming gets most of the attention, there are also plenty of lovely small towns to visit.  Admire the murals in the historic town of Buffalo, near the Bighorn Mountains. Take a step into the wild west in Cody (try to go to a rodeo if you can!).  And don’t miss the self-titled “Jewel of Wyoming”, Sheridan, where the Main Street conjures up images of western movies.

The best time to visit Wyoming is summer and fall.  However, although winters can be severe, the snow brings its own beauty to the area.

A tip: book ahead!  The state and national parks in Wyoming are incredibly beautiful, but also extremely popular.  Book ahead and try to go in the shoulder season if possible.

Submitted by James Ian of Parks Collecting

I recommend this horseback riding tour

14. Montana

If there’s one thing most people who’ve visited Montana agree on, it’s that it must be one of the most beautiful states in the USA. Of course, many of the best places to experience that beauty are inside Glacier National Park, which has sparkling alpine lakes, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and (for now) views of stunning alpine glaciers.

Another of the best things to do in Montana is the cavern tour at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. Guides will help you shuffle and crawl into the cavern, and you’ll get to enjoy the unique beauty of all the stalactites and other geological features.

Bozeman and Missoula are arguably the most beautiful larger towns in the state, though both are still under 100,000 people. Two college towns that always have a ton going on, both also have close proximity to the outdoors and gorgeous mountain views from right in the middle of town. Dozens of gorgeous smaller towns dot the state, but Libby, Hamilton, and Choteau are some of the best.

For ski bunnies and snow lovers, winter in western Montana really can’t be beaten. It’s cold, but you can hit the slopes at one of the state’s dozen or so ski hills, or try your hand at cross-country skiing, ice skating, fat-tire biking, or other cold-weather activities – they’re all popular in Montana!

Summers in Montana mean long days with sunny weather – but each year seems to see bigger wildfires, worsening air quality, and more extreme heat. Despite the hazards, it’s still the most popular time of year to visit, which also makes it the most crowded and most expensive.

Visiting in the spring or fall will probably allow you to bypass all that, and most seasonal attractions will still be open.

Submitted by Jen Ambrose and Ryan Victor of Montana Discovered

I recommend this kayaking tour

15. Hawaii

Over a hundred islands and islets make up the Hawaiian archipelago but only four of those are considered tourist destinations.

Oahu and Maui are perfect for soft adventures and relaxing vacations with a hint of luxury while Kauai and the Big Island are breathtakingly beautiful playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts.

The southernmost US state may be modest in size but the natural abundance is unrivaled! Ten climate zones shape the most intriguing landscapes, from glacial lake topped snowy peaks and rugged canyons to sun-drenched beaches and tropical rainforests.

Visit mighty volcanoes, admire picturesque waterfalls, smell the most fragrant flowers, climb giant banyan trees, explore the spectacular underwater world, discover verdant hidden valleys, soar over towering cliffs, get lost in bamboo forests, drive meandering roads, swim with turtles, explore lush rainforests and feel the sand between your toes at one of Hawaii’s colorful beaches.

Some of the activities not to be missed include visiting Pearl Harbor on Oahu, watching the sunrise from the Haleakala volcano summit on Maui, taking a helicopter tour over Waimea Canyon on Kauai and watching the roaring Akaka Falls on Big Island.

Discover Hawaii with all senses and feast on delicious poké bowls, sweet haupia pie, crunchy macadamia nuts, fluffy malasadas and cooling shave ice.

When planning your trip to Hawaii, make sure to book your accommodation and rental car as well as the islands’ popular restaurants and luau performances ahead.

Any time of the year is a good time to visit, although the winter months are best spent on the leeward side of the islands.

Submitted by Sarah Vanheel of CosmopoliClan

I love this snorkelling tour

16. Arizona

Arizona is one of the most beautiful states in the USA. There’s a reason so many people flock to Arizona every year. From the beautiful deserts in the south, to the majestic canyons in the north, Arizona has so much stunning beauty.

When many people think of Arizona, they think of the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World because of its incredible size combined with its beautiful, colorful rock landscape.

Mather Point, offering jaw-dropping views is the most popular viewpoint on the South Rim. Great ways to experience the Grand Canyon from all its different angles are to take one of its many hiking trails or take a helicopter tour down to the canyon floor!

The best times to visit the Grand Canyon weather-wise and crowd rise are spring and fall. The Grand Canyon is something you will just have to see yourself to experience its wonder. There’s so much more to Arizona though than the Grand Canyon.

Another beautiful place in Arizona is the desert town of Sedona. It is located about 115 miles north of Phoenix. Sedona is famous for its stunning red rocks and awe-inspiring scenery.

Sedona is an outdoor, nature lovers paradise. Many people come here to hike one of its many incredible trails, including the popular Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge Trail. Sedona is also known as a spiritual mecca and many people come here to visit one of its vortexes. Sedona also offers numerous art galleries, great shopping, and amazing dining options.

Sedona can get very hot during the summer, so the best time to visit here is during the spring and fall. Visit Sedona and I promise that you will think this is one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Submitted by Kim Swanson of Traveling Swansons

I love this helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon

17. Minnesota

Minnesota – one of the prettiest states in America – is home to 11,842 lakes, 17.6 million acres of forestland, the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River, and the largest fresh body of water in the world (Lake Superior), as well as ancient lava flows, glacial potholes, scenic bluffs, prairie lands, and more!

For nature lovers, Minnesota’s star attraction is Minnesota’s scenic North Shore. Highway 61 runs alongside the breathtaking shores of Lake Superior from Duluth, Minn. to the Canadian border. The top three things to see on this 150-mile epic road trip in one of the prettiest states in the USA include the following highlights:

The historic Split Rock Lighthouse stands on a cliff 130 feet above Lake Superior in Two Harbors, Minnesota. Built in 1905, the 54-foot lighthouse served as a beacon of light for 59 years.

North Shore’s prettiest hidden gem award goes to Iona’s Beach (aka Pink Beach) Scientific and Natural Area – also located in Two Harbors. Nearby cliffs of pink rhyolite and felsite bedrock are the source for this breathtaking pebble beach on Lake Superior.

And waterfalls. Lots and lots of waterfalls! One of the most unique waterfalls is Minnesota’s tallest waterfall. The 120-foot High Falls located in Grand Portage State Park sits on the border of the U.S., Canada, and the Grand Portage Indian Reservation. A selfie station provides a perfect photo op of all three nations.

Submitted by Karen Mellott-Foshier of kmfiswriting

I love this tour

18. Rhode Island

Rhode Island is one of the most beautiful (and underrated) states in the US. Situated in New England, between Connecticut and Massachusetts, Rhode Island is so tiny that you can barely see it on a map. Despite being the smallest state in the nation, Rhode Island packs a punch when it comes to aesthetics!

Despite its official nickname as the ‘Ocean State’, it may surprise some to learn that Rhode Island is not, in fact, an island at all. Still, with miles of unobstructed coastal views, nature reserves, quaint seaside towns, and the classic Colonial vibes of Providence, it’s no wonder Rhode Island exudes so much beauty.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Rhode Island, either. Charter a sailboat, explore Providence’s burgeoning culinary scene, or sunbathe at one of the state’s best beaches to get a taste of life in the Ocean State.

To truly appreciate Rhode Island’s beauty, you’ve got to check out any town or city situated on the coast. Be sure to visit Providence, Newport, Bristol, Wickford, East Greenwich, Charlestown, and Westerly for the prettiest sights and the most charm.

While any season in Rhode Island is beautiful, there is nothing that compares to a Rhode Island summer.

Be sure to head to the beach nice and early, particularly if you go on a weekend or holiday, to avoid ‘beach traffic’ and get a prime spot in the sand. Pack a cooler, some towels, and your swimsuit – don’t forget to try a Del’s while you’re there, Rhode Island’s very own frozen lemonade.

Submitted by Jade Laurenza of The Migrant Yogi

I love this trolley tour

19. South Carolina

South Carolina is the type of place where visitors can travel from the beach to the mountains in less than a day — roaming along picturesque winding country roads for much of the journey.

The most beautiful region in the state is an area nicknamed the “Lowcountry”. It’s comprised of low-lying areas along the southeastern edge of the state and includes the cities of Beaufort, Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Charleston.

The Lowcountry is known not only for its beauty, but also for its cultural significance. It’s home to the Gullah-Geechee Corridor, a National Heritage Area designed to preserve the traditions of families who were brought to the coastal region of South Carolina to labor as enslaved workers in cotton fields and on rice plantations.

Charleston is undoubtedly the most-visited city in the state, with its charming seaside views, pastel-colored antebellum mansions, and sprawling plantations that stand as reminders of the pre-Civil War era in the South. Middleton Place, Boone Hall Plantation, and Magnolia Gardens are popular attractions for visitors, and the Angel Oak is a must-see 400-year-old tree located on the outskirts of the city.

Since South Carolina’s topography stretches from the mountains to the sea in a fairly short distance, there are pretty waterfalls throughout the upstate and midlands areas. The terrain isn’t very rugged, and the weather is typically mild, which makes for easy hiking during much of the year.

Greenville is the most-visited city in the upstate region.

Spring and fall are the most popular times to visit South Carolina, although beach destinations like Hilton Head Island are often packed during the summer months.

Be cautious when visiting the coastal regions from late August through early October. That’s prime Atlantic hurricane season.

Submitted by Erin Clarkson of Savannah First-Timer’s Guide

I love watching dolphins on this sunset tour

20. California

California is the largest state in the United States and has one of the most diverse landscapes in the country, ranging from the beaches on the Pacific Coast to arid deserts, from forests to snow-covered mountains. Because of its vast offerings, California is a popular travel destination for many people from all over the world.

No other state can beat California when it comes to national parks that are chock-full of amazing hikes and jaw-dropping views–the state has a total of 9 national parks! The crown jewel is Yosemite National Park. With its granite cliffs and giant sequoia trees, visitors get the most beautiful views on all their hiking expeditions.

When in California, explorers cannot miss driving the coastal Highway 101, which spans all the way from San Diego to northern California and into Oregon. This scenic drive takes visitors along the Pacific coast with marvelous views of the ocean and everything surrounding it, including the cliffs at Big Sur’s Bixby Bridge.

The highway has many stops at small coastal towns, such as Cayucos, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea. However, visitors can also stop in California’s most popular cities: San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

The best time to visit California is in the fall, September-November, as the crowds are thinner, the fog is non-existent, and the temperature is around 75°F.

Springtime in April is another ideal time to visit California.

With so much to see and do, make sure to pack accordingly when visiting. Since California is such a big state, it’s no surprise that visitors will need to return to see everything on their must-see list!

Submitted by Pafoua of Her Wanderful World

I love this tour of iconic California beaches

Conclusion: 20 Most Beautiful States in America

The most beautiful states in America are a treasure trove of natural beauty and scenery.

From the stunning snow-capped mountains to the lush rainforests, these 20 most beautiful states will show you why travellers should visit the USA on their next vacation.

You’ll be able to plan an epic road trip adventure from state to state, or choose one beautiful location to fully explore during your visit to the United States. However you choose to travel, you’re sure to need your camera to capture the beauty of your surroundings!

So what state is your favorite?

Share this blog with anyone who loves travelling so they can get inspiration for their next bucket list trip!

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