Sloss Furnaces is a must-visit landmark in Birmingham. Operating from 1882 to 1971, it was a major pig iron blast furnace and the cornerstone of the citys industrial economy. Today, this National Historic Landmark features rusted steel girders forming a dramatic Gothic monument to American industry. Quiet pathways wind through cobwebbed workshops and production lines—a photographers paradise. An on-site museum explores its fascinating history.

Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, at the northernmost tip of Kauai—the largest Hawaiian island—safeguards nesting seabirds on its rugged coastal cliffs and marine mammals in the offshore waters. Public access is limited to a scenic viewing area centered around the iconic Kilauea Lighthouse, where panoramic views and detailed interpretive panels highlight the diverse species.Along the short three-minute trail from the entrance station to the lighthouse, Crater Hills steep slopes to your rig

The Yale University Art Gallery, architect Louis Kahns first major commission, holds the oldest university art collection in the United States. Highlights include Vincent van Goghs The Night Café, European masterpieces by Frans Hals, Peter Paul Rubens, Édouard Manet, and Pablo Picasso, plus American works by Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, and Jackson Pollock. Discover 18th-century silver, and art from Africa, Asia, and the pre- and post-Columbian Americas—all free to explore.

Designated as one of Colorados five original wilderness areas, Mount Zirkel Wilderness spans a vast, roadless landscape featuring pristine glacial lakes, rugged granite peaks, and endless opportunities for secluded backcountry hiking and camping. Straddling the Continental Divide, its nourished by the Elk and Encampment Rivers. Local experts rave about the iconic Zirkel Circle hike, a stunning 10-mile alpine loop linking Gilpin Lake and Gold Creek Lake.From Steamboat Springs, prime trails like M

Taos Earthship community boasts 70 self-sustaining homes, with capacity for 60 more. Visionary architect Michael Reynolds designed these innovative structures using recycled materials like used tires and cans. Buried on three sides, Earthships naturally heat and cool themselves, generate electricity, harvest rainwater, and enable residents to grow their own food. Opt for an overnight stay over the underwhelming self-guided tour. The visitor center lies 1.5 miles west of the Rio Grande Gorge Brid

Reopened in 2016 after meticulous restoration, the Yale Center for British Art represents architect Louis Kahns final commission. It houses the largest collection of British art outside the United Kingdom, spanning three centuries from the Elizabethan era to the 19th century. Organized thematically and chronologically, it offers deep insights into British art, life, and culture. Free admission makes it essential for art lovers.Public and private group tours are available.

Jagged, razor-sharp spikes crown Makaluapuna Point, famously nicknamed Dragons Teeth for its striking resemblance to a mythical dragons mouth. These 3-foot-high formations result from relentless winter waves eroding the lava rock over time. However, the site poses significant hazards due to powerful swells—especially northern winter waves—and uneven, sharp terrain.Revered as sacred by Native Hawaiians, Makaluapuna Point is protected by cultural signage. While public ocean access is legally permi

Grab your camera for Three Bears Falls, named for its striking triple cascade flowing down a steep rock face inland from the road, 0.5 miles past the 19-mile marker on the Road to Hana. After rain, the streams merge into a powerful, roaring waterfall. Limited parking is available uphill to the left beyond the falls.Access the base via a steep, unmarked path from the Hana side of the bridge. Moss-covered stones make it slippery—exercise extreme caution or enjoy the spectacular view safely from th

Acadia National Park, New Englands only national park, marked its 100th anniversary in 2016 and remains a breathtaking destination. It features stunning coastal landmarks and diverse activities for all visitors.Drivers and hikers owe thanks to John D. Rockefeller Jr. and fellow philanthropists for the parks iconic bridges, overlooks, and stone steps. Rockefeller collaborated with architects and masons to craft carriage roads and motor roads that seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings.

Situated above the treeline on the wind-swept Continental Divide and snow-bound for much of the year, Logan Pass at 6,646 feet—named for William R. Logan, Glacier National Parks first superintendent—marks the parks highest drivable point. Iconic trails like Hidden Lake Overlook (extending to Hidden Lake) and the Highline Trail start here, offering breathtaking vistas. Note: parking fills quickly during peak season; plan to arrive early.

Acapulcos premier tourist draw, the La Quebrada cliff divers have mesmerized audiences since 1934. Nightly, seven professional divers navigate churning waves, scale cliffs up to 35 meters, and execute flawless plunges into the narrow cove below. Performances last 20 minutes, culminating in a torch-lit finale. For traditions sake, tip the divers as you exit.Elevate your view at La Perla restaurant-bar, offering prime overlooks (at a premium).

Approximately 18,000 years ago, the Matanuska Glacier blanketed the landscape now home to Palmer, Alaska. Once an awe-inspiring natural force, it today serves as a stunning geological wonder and open-air classroom. Viewed from afar, its towering ice wall evokes images of ancient explorers patrolling its edge.The accessible portion of the glacier lies on private land, expertly managed for visitor safety. Access is through Glacier Park Resort at Mile 102, where a $25 fee grants entry via a private

Though not the tallest or most predictable geyser in Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful stands as the parks enduring symbol and a perennial favorite among visitors. Approximately every 90 minutes, it erupts with around 8,000 gallons of water—equivalent to 150 bathtubs—reaching heights of up to 180 feet. For the best experience, observe from multiple viewpoints: the benches beside the geyser, the upper balcony of the historic Old Faithful Inn, or our top recommendation, the distant overlook

Indulge in celebrity-level sunbathing at Wailea Beach, a stunning golden strand backed by the upscale Grand Wailea and prestigious Four Seasons resorts. This prime spot offers abundant water activities, with gently sloping sands perfect for safe swimming. Calm conditions reveal excellent snorkeling near the southern rocky point, while afternoon shorebreaks provide ideal bodysurfing waves. Scuba divers can trace the offshore reef from Wailea Beach southward to Polo Beach.Convenient beach access a

Renowned for its pristine beauty, the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park spans 16 miles of towering green cliffs, pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise coves, and cascading waterfalls—Kauaʻis premier natural wonder. The five spectacular valleys—Kalalau, Honopū, Awaʻawapuhi, Nuʻalolo, and Miloliʻi—each surpass the last in majesty. Inaccessible by road, this rugged terrain challenges even the famed Kalalau Trail with its sheer rock buttresses.Experienced hikers can reach Kalalau Valley on foot,

Georgias largest and southernmost barrier island, Cumberland Island National Seashore, is an unspoiled paradise. A campers dream, ideal for family day trips, and a serene retreat for couples—its no surprise the wealthy Carnegie family chose it as their 19th-century escape, leaving behind the historic Dungeness Ruins. Encompassing 36,415 acres of marshes, mudflats, and tidal creeks, it offers 17 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches youll often have to yourself. The interior features lush maritim

Arches National Park stands as one of the American Southwests most spectacular destinations, renowned for hosting the worlds highest concentration of natural sandstone arches. Situated just 5 miles north of Moab along Highway 191, the park draws massive crowds in summer. Opt for sunrise or moonlight visits for cooler temperatures and an ethereal glow on the rock formations. Many arches are accessible via paved roads and short, easy hiking trails.Key highlights feature the iconic Delicate Arch an

Spanning 1,252 square miles—nearly the size of Rhode Island—Big Bend National Park embodies true grandeur. Its diverse landscapes offer lifelong exploration opportunities, while well-maintained roads and trails let short-term visitors experience its highlights in just 2-3 days.Prime hikes start from Chisos Basin, including the scenic 4.8-mile Lost Mine Trail and the strenuous 10.5-mile round-trip to Emory Peak (7,832 ft), the parks highest summit.

Mesa Verde National Park captivates with its ancient cliff dwellings and rich cultural heritage of the Ancestral Puebloans. Unlike most U.S. national parks emphasizing natural wonders, it preserves invaluable archaeological sites. About 20 miles from the entrance, the Chapin Mesa Museum showcases immersive dioramas of Ancestral Pueblo life, authentic artifacts, and in-depth historical exhibits. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and mountain biking. Stay in campgrounds or the

Discover the dramatic landscapes of Dolly Sods Wilderness in the northern Allegheny Plateau, where red spruce trees, windswept boulders, sweeping valley views, and boggy forests mimic the alpine scenery of northern Canada. Covering 17,371 acres with 47 miles of trails, this remote yet accessible area is ideal for day hikes or multi-day adventures. Create custom loop hikes from the Beaver Dam or Bear Rocks trailheads.Red Creek Campground provides 11 primitive, first-come, first-served sites for $