The United States has no shortage of landmarks that highlight the country’s history and natural beauty. From giant statues to ancient mounds, these destinations give us a peek at the history that has shaped America.
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Here are five must-see landmarks that show off the best of the USA.
1. Statue of Liberty, New York City
- A Gift From France: The iconic Statue of Liberty, a gift from France in 1886, stands proudly in New York Harbor, welcoming immigrants and visitors alike.
- More Than Just a Statue: Despite popular belief, the Statue of Liberty is not just a pretty photo opportunity. It serves as a powerful symbol of freedom, democracy, liberty, and justice, the ideals upon which America was founded.
- Did You Know? The statue’s green color comes from copper reacting with the elements. When it was first built, it shone with a bright copper hue.
2. Alcatraz Island, California
- From Prison to Historic Site: Alcatraz was home to one of the country’s most infamous prisons, housing criminals like Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. Now, it’s a museum that attracts tons of people interested in its morbid history.
- A Place of Protest: In 1969, Alcatraz became a center of the American Indian civil rights movement, highlighting its importance beyond just a prison.
- The Great Escape: The legendary 1962 prison break still leaves many people wondering – did the escapees ever make it out alive?
3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
- America’s Oldest National Park: Founded in 1872, Yellowstone was the first national park in the world. It’s known for its impressive geothermal wonders, including the famous Old Faithful geyser.
- A Wildlife Haven: The park is home to an array of wildlife, from bison and elk to wolves, and supports a variety of ecosystems.
- Did You Know? Yellowstone sits on top of a supervolcano, and the park’s geothermal features are powered by a massive magma chamber beneath it.
4. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville, Illinois
- Discovering an Ancient Culture: Once the heart of the Mississippian culture, Cahokia Mounds is home to the largest earthen mounds in North America. It offers a fascinating look into the advanced society that lived there long before European settlers arrived.
- A Forgotten Ancient City: Cahokia was one of the largest urban centers in pre-Columbian North America, its grandeur often forgotten in modern history.
- Did You Know? Monk’s Mound, the tallest mound at Cahokia, was once the site of a massive temple complex. It remains the largest earthen structure in the United States.
5. The Liberty Bell, Philadelphia
- The Sound of Independence: The Liberty Bell, with its famous crack, is one of the most enduring symbols of the American Revolution. It rang out on July 4, 1776, marking the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
- More Than Just a Bell: The Liberty Bell’s significance goes far beyond its sound; it represents the freedoms that were crucial in the founding of the United States.
- A Mysterious Crack: The cause of the bell’s crack is still a matter of debate. Some believe it occurred when it was first rung, while others think it developed over time.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or architecture, the USA offers something for every traveler to explore.