15 famous landmarks in the us
Famous landmarks in the US. The United States has plenty of famous landmarks for tourists and residents to visit at any given time of year. When visiting these famous American monuments, history comes alive and you leave with a better appreciation and understanding of the momentous events that occurred right where you stand. From America’s brightest moments to its darkest days, these iconic monuments showcase the United States’ legacy and the foundation on which the beautiful country is built.
As part of the World, the United States of America is filled with beautiful monuments and landmarks that are definitely worth visiting. These American landmarks are symbols of history as they are where important events took place. From Ground Zero, to the Statue Of Liberty, all the way to Hollywood Walk of Fame, here’s a list of spectacular American landmarks which you should go check out.
In this article, we will introduce you to 15 famous landmarks in the US that you absolutely must know. If one day you hesitate to choose a place to visit in the USA, consult our article on the 15 famous monuments in the United States.
1-Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
In West Potomac Park on the National Mall, near Constitution Avenue, you can find a stone engraved with the face of Martin Luther King Jr. and his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. It is in front of a large structure meant to represent hope for racial equality in the United States. Dr. King’s face is carved into smooth black rock and looks over the river toward future generations of Americans. It is a must see monument for any history buff or individual interested in learning more about civil rights.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is a sculpture carved into the “Stone of Hope” in West Potomac Park within the historic National Mall in Washington, D.C. It was created by sculptor Lei Yixin and completed in 2011. The statue depicts Dr. King emerging from the Stone of Hope to a height of 19 feet tall. The memorial honors his legacy and hopes for freedom and equality for all people in the United States. Situated across from the reflecting pool that leads to the Lincoln Memorial, visitors can see the sculpture as they walk across the bridge over the Tidal Basin and onto the National Mall.
USS Arizona Memorial
The USS Arizona Memorial is one of the most visited sites in Hawaii, attracting crowds of visitors daily. Before making your trip to the memorial, visit our website for information on what to visit, where to park, and more. Our staff can answer your questions about visiting Pearl Harbor. The memorial was dedicated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958, as a tribute to all those who lost their lives aboard the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The memorial also honors those who survived the attack and went on to fight in World War II.
The USS Arizona Memorial is a National Historic Landmark and is open to the public. The three-acre site honors those who died during the attack on Pearl Harbor and serves as a place of reflection. Located near downtown Honolulu in Hawaii, the memorial faces the sunken hull of the ship. A life-size battleship gun and anchor are mounted on one side while an eternal flame burns in remembrance of those who lost their lives.
3-Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is a National Historic Landmark that has been transformed into a museum, located in Charlottesville, Virginia. Visitors can explore much of the home, including an exhibit dedicated to Jefferson himself and archaeology from the surrounding plantation. Visitors can also purchase tickets to tour the home and nearby garden. This item will be shipped through the Global Shipping Program and includes international tracking.
As you drive through the Virginia countryside and make your way through the campus of Thomas Jefferson’s home, Monticello, you will see the expansive definition of the word “house.” Monticello is a National Historic Landmark that was once a prominent player in Virginia politics. Built from 1768 to 1809, this red-brick estate with white columns looks just like it did when Jefferson lived there. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction with access to much of the estate (including where Jefferson lived), gardens, archaeology sites, hiking trails and much more.
4-The World Trade Center Memorial
The World Trade Center Memorial honors the memory of the innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001. Located on the footprints of the Twin Towers, two waterfalls cascade down into two pools and are surrounded by a list of the victims’ names. The names are engraved into 9/11-themed parapets, which are referred to as “memorial barriers”, and represent a deeper look into each person’s history. If you stand next to one of the barriers during a quiet moment, you can hear one of the tributary fountains gurgling quietly. The sound is soothing, and it gives visitors a chance to reflect silently or find solace in others around them. The sound introduces an air of peace throughout Memorial plaza, which makes this historical landmark an important place for remembrance and peace.
Tourists and New Yorkers alike visit the World Trade Center Memorial to remember the victims of September 11, 2001. The pools are surrounded by a paved walkway that features the names of all 2,982 people killed in the attacks. Flowers are placed at those most recently lost each day.
5-The Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial, located on the western end of Washington, D.C.’s National Mall, was built to honor the United States’ 16th President. Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) was a leader well ahead of his time. He is famously known for his inspiring words of his Gettysburg Address and as the signer of the Emancipation Proclamation. Two years after Lincoln’s assassination, Congress approved an association to build a memorial to the president. Robert Leflore won the architectural design competition, and construction began in 1914. The Lincoln Memorial was completed in 1922; however, it was not formally dedicated until May 30, 1922. The memorial features a 19-foot-high statue of Lincoln with inscriptions of his Second Inaugural Address and his Gettysburg Address carved on the walls on both sides.
Featured in the American Experience series, the Lincoln Memorial is a historic monument best-known for being the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. The Memorial features an enormous statue of Lincoln sitting on top of a 19-foot high Doric-style stone podium. Behind it are the sculpted images of three women representing liberty, equality, and wisdom that are surrounded by 56 columns of Black Georgia marble.
6-The Alamo
The Alamo, San Antonio is one of the most famous landmarks in America, as well as one of the most significant battles in Texan history. This 18th-century Franciscan mission complex stands resolute as a symbol of determination and strength. Over the years, The Alamo’s site has transformed into a tourist destination, featuring storytelling, guided tours, preserved buildings, and many other attractions for travelers looking to learn more about the Texan Revolution, and those who aspire to learn from the past.
Whether you are a Texan or just visiting, the Alamo is an important landmark to visit while in San Antonio, Texas. A complex of preserved buildings and historic places, the Alamo is a reminder of bravery and resistance in the face of tragedy. Most notably, the 1836 Battle of the Alamo saw numerous men die defending the mission fort.
Tours are available of the historic mission, giving guests the chance to see the Alamo and learn about its fascinating history. Explore the grounds of this historic battlefield and discover how the 19th-century events helped shape today’s Texas. Learn, explore, and get a taste of the history that made San Antonio an economic and cultural center.
7-Mount Rushmore
Sitting on the southern border of South Dakota the Mount Rushmore National Memorial is the world’s largest sculpture. The monument represents the history and liberties of the United States. Learn about America with a guide who will talk about diversity and preservation of the land as you visit this grand piece of art work. A trip to Mount Rushmore National Memorial is an experience that will leave a lasting impact on your soul!
The towering sculptures at Mount Rushmore National Memorial are a literal representation of America’s history, diversity and preservation of the land. The sculpture of the presidents was created by an artist named Gutzon Borglum. The detail in each carving is astounding, as he considered every wrinkle, wrinkle and even tooth on each face.
Come see Mount Rushmore, America’s Shrine to Democracy. The rock-hewn sculpture of four US presidents is known around the world and held in high esteem by American citizens. To know what George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt have contributed to the country and the world is in honor of their legacy, visit one of South Dakota’s most famous tourist destinations today.
8-Independence Hall
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, Independence Hall was built between 1732 and 1756. Here, the Declaration of Independence was penned as well as the Constitution. The building is a symbol of America’s fight for freedom and independence. History enthusiasts will enjoy touring this UNESCO World Heritage Site and learning about American history at its birthplace.
Constructed in 1732, Independence Hall is the most significant building of its era in Philadelphia. Today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded on history and tradition. The building is situated at 1 National Sq., Philadelphia, PA 19106. America’s most famous landmark and symbol of freedom, this multi-leveled structure was once known as the Pennsylvania State House and served as the meeting place for the US Continental Congress from 1774-1788. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about America’s beginnings and view the Liberty Bell.
9-Gettysburg National Military Park
The Gettysburg National Military Park, located in the heart of Pennsylvania, inspired President Abraham Lincoln to deliver his famous “Gettysburg Address,” which reflected on the significance of the battle: “It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us…that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion…”
Over one hundred years after the end of the American Civil War, the Battlefield still bears witness to the battle that cemented Gettysburg’s place in history. From April 30th to July 3rd, 1863, over 165,000 soldiers from the North and South clashed in and around this small Pennsylvania town. Although thousands died on the battlefields and surrounding area, more than 50,000 wounded would make their way off the fields into town for medical aid. Many buildings were converted into field hospitals. At home and abroad, people prayed for their loved ones besieged on this hallowed ground. To this day, people still come to honor those who made sacrifices on these battlefields – both Union and Confederate soldiers.
10-Gateway Arch
Tourists and locals will enjoy a visit to the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri. This elegant landmark sits just over the Mississippi River, known as the “Gateway to the West.” The Swiss-French architect Eero Saarinen created this awe-inspiring monument to represent the voyagers who made their way through the West for years to come. Visitors can take a few hours at this magnificent site just taking in its magnificence and surrounding scenery, or spend an entire day touring the museum, going to the top of the arch and even riding on a tram up to its summit for breathtaking views of the land.
The Gateway Arch is a unique and legendary landmark that is popular among both tourists and locals. You can spend a few hours at this elegant monument just taking in its beauty or you can spend a whole day exploring the area and riding to the top to take in breathtaking views.
11-Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter is a monument to the American Civil War. Located off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, the fort was witness to the first shots of the war when Confederate soldiers fired on Fort Sumter as part of their campaign to secede from the American Union. Today tourists can still see evidence of the battle including cannons, wrecked buildings and bricks still scarred from cannon fire. Guided tours are available for those interested in more details on the historic fighting that occurred at Fort Sumter and for those who want to gain a greater understanding of modern-day Charleston, South Carolina.
The site of the first shots fired in the American Civil War, Fort Sumter is an important landmark visited by millions each year. Now you can bring home a piece of this historic island for yourself and your family. This three-dimensional model of Historic Fort Sumter includes a history card and picture of the real thing.
12-Ellis Island
Ellis Island was the hub of immigration from 1892 to 1924. More than 12 million immigrants arrived through its portals, where they were inspected for disease and other perceived ills, and processed for entry into the U.S. The island is now a national monument operated by the National Park Service. It’s worth a visit if you’re seeking to learn more about U.S. history and immigration.
Ellis Island is open 364 days a year, and the ferry ride from Manhattan to the island takes only 15 minutes. On the island, you explore the Main Building, with its Great Hall of Ellis Island, where immigrants once gathered before continuing their journey. You see medical exams rooms and personal stories. A historical marker honors Red Caps, men who wore red jackets and helped carry immigrants’ luggage on and off ships for Ellis Island in the early 20th century
Visitors to New York, who are interested in learning more about US immigration, can visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
13-Crazy Horse Memorial
Standing nearly two-thirds the size of the Statue of Liberty, The Crazy Horse Memorial portrays Native American leader Crazy Horse on horseback. Even with construction still underway, this landmark is already the second highest structure in South Dakota.
The Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota is an ongoing construction of a mountain memorial for the famous Native American leader, Crazy Horse. While it is under construction, the Black Hills are home to the Big Horn Medicine Wheel , another Native American landmark that has yet to be fully excavated and explored by archaeologists.
A tribute to Native American warrior Crazy Horse, the Black Hills’ Crazy Horse Memorial is a monumental artwork carved into the side of Mount Rushmore’s largest peak. When complete in 1998, it will be the world’s second-largest mountain sculpture at 6,605 feet. The carving is also known for its American Indian themes and history of racism against Native Americans.
14-Bunker Hill Monument
The Bunker Hill Monument is a popular site for locals and tourists to explore the city of Boston. It’s also a well-known stop for celebrity sightings as many famous people have visited the monument for various reasons. Located on top of Breed’s Hill, the monument was built in memory of the Battle of Bunker Hill. The battle took place during the American Revolution and resulted in a victory for the colonists over British troops. Visit the monument to see its 360-degree views of Boston and surrounding areas such as sea coast and mountains nearby. Climb all 294 steps to the top to see an observation platform and the statue of war hero Joseph Warren. Visitors can also learn more about the Battle at the museum and buy souvenirs at the gift shop that includes mugs, magnets, T-shirts, models, books, games, and DVD sets about the battle.
Today, the Bunker Hill Monument is one of the oldest memorials in America. As one of the first monuments to the Revolutionary War, it pays homage to the soldiers who died on June 17, 1775 at the Battle of Bunker Hill.
15-Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island is an island located in San Francisco Bay and was the site of a lighthouse, a military fort, and fortifications there are still standing. The National Historic Landmark features several facilities, including a lighthouse, military fort, and a military jail. From 1969 through the 1970s, Native Americans occupied the island as part of a wave of activism and protests and it was known as Alcatraz Island Indian Cultural Center.
When first opening in 1859, Alcatraz Island was a military garrison until it was shuttered in the mid-19th century. Decades later, thanks to the Gold Rush and then the Civil War, this island saw a renewal of interest and use, with multiple buildings and military improvements built throughout the years. Alcatraz Island became a federal prison in 1934, housing national prisoners, including many notorious individuals such as Al Capone. Native Americans finally gained possession of the land in 1969 and held it until 1971. The National Historic Landmark includes several buildings, including a lighthouse, but its primary draw is as a prison museum.
A National Historic Landmark, Alcatraz Island is home to a military fort, a lighthouse and several museums. Al Capone, George Kelly and Robert Franklin Stroud were some of the more famous inmates but the list of infamous prisoners also included Bernard Coy, James Earl Ray, Rafael Cancel Miranda and Machine Gun Kelly
Conclusion on famous landmarks in the US
America is a big country and every state is interesting in its own way. While you may feel that you’ve seen some of the iconic landmarks, there are plenty which are just waiting to be discovered. Whenever you visit America, make sure to include at least one famous landmark in your itinerary. Who knows? You might even like them so much, you’ll want to come back!
The United States has been home to some of the biggest and most memorable events in history. There’s no doubt that these landmarks are worth visiting. Whether you want to learn more about the history of the United States, or simply want to soak in some historical sightseeing, then all of these landmarks are definitely on your bucket list.
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