These Are the Best National Parks You Have to See

Ever get that feeling where you just need to unplug? To trade the endless scroll and city noise for something real, something wild? That’s where national parks come in. They’re more than just pretty scenery; they’re places that remind you how huge and incredible the world is.

If you’re looking for an escape that you’ll be talking about for years, here are a few of the absolute best national parks worth bumping to the top of your travel list.

For Postcard-Perfect Views: Banff, Canada

the Best National Parks Banff National Park

Banff National Park, Canada

Let’s start with a classic, and for good reason. You’ve probably seen photos of Banff’s bright turquoise lakes and jagged, snowy mountains. Well, trust me—it’s even better in real life. Paddling a canoe on the glassy surface of Moraine Lake or hiking up to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Louise feels like stepping right into a painting. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best way possible. Keep your eyes peeled for elk and even the occasional grizzly bear (from a safe distance, of course!).

For Geothermal Wonders and Big-Sky Drama: Yellowstone, USA

Yellowstone isn’t just a national park—it’s the original one. The world’s first. And once you’re there, it’s easy to see why it kicked off the whole idea. The land is alive here, literally. Steaming geysers erupt like clockwork, colorful hot springs swirl with surreal blues and oranges, and bubbling mud pots gurgle like something from another planet. Then there’s the wildlife—bison herds grazing against the backdrop of wide-open valleys, elk bugling in the distance, and yes, even wolves if you’re lucky. Whether you’re watching Old Faithful shoot sky-high or soaking in a quiet moment by Yellowstone Lake, it feels like you’ve stumbled into nature’s grand experiment—wild, raw, and endlessly fascinating.

For the Ultimate Wildlife Show: The Serengeti, Tanzania

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

If seeing incredible wildlife is your dream, the Serengeti is the pinnacle. This isn’t a zoo; it’s raw, untamed nature on a massive scale. The main event is the Great Migration, where you can literally feel the ground rumble as millions of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains. It’s one of the most powerful things you’ll ever witness. Plus, spotting lions lazing in the sun or a leopard lounging in a tree is a thrill that never gets old. It’s a true bucket-list adventure.

For a Touch of Magic: Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

This place feels like it was pulled straight out of a fairytale. Plitvice isn’t just one lake; it’s a series of 16 of them, all connected by a web of incredible waterfalls. The water is this crazy clear, emerald-green color. What makes it so cool is the network of wooden boardwalks that let you walk right over the bubbling water and next to the cascades. It’s lush, it’s loud with the sound of rushing water, and it’s completely enchanting.

For Jaw-Dropping Wilderness: Torres del Paine, Chile

If Patagonia sounds like the edge of the world, that’s because it kind of is—and Torres del Paine is its crown jewel. The first time you see those jagged granite towers rising above turquoise lakes, your jaw will probably drop (and stay that way for a while). This park is a hiker’s dream, with trails winding through windswept plains, glacier-fed rivers, and forests that feel ancient. The weather is wild—sun, rain, snow, and wind all in a day—but that only adds to the sense of adventure. Whether you’re doing a multi-day trek like the famous W Circuit or just taking in the views with a hot mate in hand, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.

A Few Friendly Tips Before You Go

A little planning goes a long way in making your trip amazing.

Book Way in Advance: These parks are popular for a reason! Accommodations and special permits can sell out months, sometimes even a year, ahead. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Give the Animals Space: It’s a thrill to see wildlife, but remember you’re a guest in their home. Keep a safe distance, never feed them, and just enjoy watching them be wild.
Leave It As You Found It: The golden rule of the outdoors is “leave no trace.” That means packing out all of your trash and sticking to the trails to protect the fragile nature around you.
Timing is Everything: A trip to Banff in the winter is a snowy wonderland, while a summer visit is all about hiking and turquoise lakes. Do a little research on the best season for the experience you want.

Honestly, words and pictures can only do so much. The real magic of the world’s best national parks is something you have to feel for yourself. So next time you plan a getaway, think about trading the city for the wild. You won’t regret it.