The Getaway
Beautiful Outdoor Attractions to Visit in the U.S.

America offers the best outdoor attractions and experiences for every taste and budget. Of course, if you prefer the movies, museums, and art galleries, you're in luck. But if you're the sporty type who can't wait to explore the outdoors, the possibilities are endless. And what divine and diverse beauty the American landscape holds! From camping in the wild to hiking unique terrain and mountain trails to swimming in azure blue waters, there's no end to the possibilities. So what are you waiting for? Breathe in some fresh air and make some happy memories!

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01 Hit the beaches of the Golden Isles in Georgia

Aerial view Jekyll Island Beach rodclementphotography / Getty Images

If you’ve been craving a healthy dose of sun, sand, and surf, but you still need your space, then this is the place for you. The little-known St. Simons Island has pretty beaches, water activities, shopping, and seafood restaurants. It's an ideal place to relax and also have fun on the water. For a luxurious experience, head to Sea Island, which hosts the Cloister, a five-star hotel and spa.

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02 Explore a magical attraction at Mammoth Cave National Park

Inside a dark cave with stalactites lit up at Mammoth Cave National Park benkrut / Getty Images

The Green River valley in Kentucky has the world’s biggest cave system, and the magical world beneath includes hundreds of miles of stalactites and limestone caverns, plus 130 wildlife species. Tourists can explore 10 miles of the Mammoth Caves. Once you’ve had your fill of the underground beauty, rise up to hike many more miles of forest, wetlands, and ravines.

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03 Test your bravery at Crater Lake National Park

Reflections of Cleetwood Cove on Crater Lake at Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, USA. Crystal clear blue water with visible rocks and logs. Elisabeth Bender / Getty Images

Oregon's Crater Lake is one of the deepest lakes in America and was created about 8000 years back when an entire mountain crumbled during a volcanic eruption. Rain and snow slowly filled the natural wonder over the centuries allowing us the awesome opportunity to explore it. Travel in the warmer months of June to September, and don’t forget to pack your hiking shoes as you will need them to access the Cleetwood Trail and the caldera.

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04 Feel dwarfed by gigantic trees at Redwood National Park

The General Grant tree, the largest giant sequoia. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, California USA. Tunatura / Getty Images

Over 100 years ago, the state of California, together with a preservationist group called Save the Redwoods League, took up the noble cause of saving the mighty redwoods from hungry loggers. They purchased vast areas of land, which is today a part of the well-known Redwood National Park. Thousands of seedlings were planted and are now some of the massive redwoods we’re so proud of. Try wrapping your arms around one of these beauties!

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05 Marvel at amazing rock formations in Yosemite Valley

Young man contemplating Yosemite valley from the river, USA swissmediavision / Getty Images

In the mid-1800s, the Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada was declared the third national park in America. The Yosemite Valley is just part of the massive park but is very popular with tourists who travel miles to gaze at the iconic rock formations of El Capitan and Half Dome. You can also hike or bike to certain spots where the views will leave you awestruck.

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06 Catch the awe-inspiring views at the Indiana Dunes

Stormy and overcast day at Indiana Dunes State Park bcmorris / Getty Images

A jewel in the crown of the Midwest, the Indiana Dunes is one of the most unusual natural wonders of the U.S. Along the shores of Lake Michigan, you are guaranteed sweeping, gorgeous views. Take the train or drive down on a day trip from Chicago to explore this amazing outdoor attraction.

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07 Experience the excitement of whale spotting in Hawaii

This image was taken off the shores of Maui. RobertPlotz / Getty Images

Ever been privy to the songs of the 40-ton male humpback whale? It's a sound you'll never forget! Every year during the winter, about 5000 humpback whales move southward from Alaska toward the much warmer waters of the Hawaiian islands. Plan your trip between December and April and delight in spotting these creatures from the shore or on a boat trip.

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08 Hike the iconic Grand Canyon in Arizona

A hiker on the Esplanade passing rocks of the Supai Group of Pennsyvanian age in Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. Scott T. Smith / Getty Images

One of the most amazing natural wonders of not just America but the world over, the Grand Canyon has been in existence for millions of years and is extremely vast. Tourists travel far and wide just to get photographed at the deep canyon. The views along the South Rim and North Rim are spectacular, but if you're a brave adventurer, hike down the chasm toward the Colorado River.

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09 Dodge the rapids at Glacier National Park in Montana

 Fantastic, colorful sunset at Glacier National Park Jordan Siemens / Getty Images

The ancient glaciers which helped carve the lakes, valleys, and peaks of this park inspired its name, as well. Unfortunately, there are just 25 glaciers that remain in the park today, and they are fast disappearing due to global warming. The park is home to the dwindling population of grizzly bears in North America (they can be dangerous, so stay away if you see one!), and there is ample opportunity to hike and experience the thrill of white water rafting through the vast, rugged terrain.

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10 Get your thermal fix at Yellowstone National Park

Steaming, colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, Midway Geyser, Yellowstone Ignacio Palacios / Getty Images

This national park is full of geothermal activity and has myriad geysers, fumaroles, and the famed Mammoth Hot Springs. Very close to the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park, its colorful terraces — created by limestone deposits from the quick-cooling thermal water — are a joy to behold.

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