It’s hard, almost unfair to name the most beautiful states in the US, as each of them has its own share of natural beauty added to the man-made constructions, its own particular character, its own incontestable magic. Nevertheless, I decided to make up a completely subjective top of 10 most beautiful states in America.
10. Florida
Photo by Justin Ornellas
Also known as The Sunshine State, Florida lies in the southernmost point of continental United States as an alluring mix of trendy beaches, sprawling cities, lovely lighthouses, balmy weather and sweet Latin vibe.
Even without glamorous Miami, Fort Lauderdale aka The Venice of America and Disney World – the largest and most famous theme park in the world, Florida would still be a good-looking cosmopolitan state with something for everyone. Its greatest assets are probably the wonderful beaches, the swanky way of life and the Hispanic influences, but there are also a myriad of secluded places in Florida waiting to be discovered.
9. Oregon
Photo by ex_magician
Full of striking contrasts, cultural sites and landscapes that rival those in Lord of the Rings, Oregon can be easily considered one of the most spectacular states in the US. Home of breathtaking Steens Mountain, Crater Lake National Park, outstanding Oregon Coastline and many breathtaking highways such as Historic Columbia River Highway and Cascade Lakes Highway, the state of Oregon is definitely a mother nature’s gift and a must-see destination while visiting the States.
8. Michigan
Photo by jsorbieus
Michigan State is blessed with some of the greatest lakes and natural beauties in the United States. Highlights include the stunning Pictured Rocks, the charming Victorian-style Mackinac Island, the wilderness preserve of Isle Royale, the scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes, Porcupine Mountains as well as the lakes of Superior, Michigan, Huron and a share of Erie, all of them part of the Great Lakes region.
7. Colorado
Photo by Beverly & Pack
Home of a great collection of gorgeous national parks and monuments, charming ski resorts, lively cities, historical towns and wildlife sanctuaries, it’s no wonder Colorado makes always the list of America’s most beautiful states. After all, not many places in the world can compete with the scenic natural beauty and the diversity of Colorado. From the heights of splendid Rocky Mountains to the deep canyons engraved by the Colorado River lies a world of its own that begs to be explored.
6. Hawaii
Photo by SF Brit
Hawaii, the 50th of the United States of America, stands out due to its exceptional culture, rich flora and fauna, and diverse appealing scenery. It is the only state in the US made up completely of islands and prides itself with an incredible array of protected areas from the amazing Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument , Haleakala National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the historical parks of Kalaupapa, Kaloko-Honokōhau and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau. Top places of interest include Oahu’s famous Pearl Harbor, Maui, Big Island and the stunning Kauai Island.
5. Arizona
Photo by Bala Sivakumar
Featuring five distinct regions, a wide palette of cultures and the nickname of Grand Canyon State, it’s no surprise Arizona is one of the most visited states in the country. Such a captivating place dotted with striking dessert landscape, famous canyons, pine forests, mountains, pretty lakes, twinkling rivers, quaint valleys and Indian ruins certainly deserves its place in the spotlight.
4. Utah
Photo by mland329
Inspiring, pelicular and utterly gorgeous, Utah is certainly the state of rugged beauty, outdoor activities, incredible geological wonders and Old West way of life. From adventurous Moab with its national treasures Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park to the picturesque Rocky Mountain Basin where lie some of the best ski resort in the US, Utah has something for everyone.
3. Alaska
Reaching out into the Arctic Ocean, Alaska, the largest and the least densely populated state in the US is a spectacular combination of endless snow-caped mountains, breathtaking lakes, incredible wildlife and abundant culture, all soaked in a deep local flavor. Furthermore, Alaska is a paradise for adventure seekers and the home of some of the most beautiful backdrops in the world.
2. Montana
Photo by Dave Sizer
Montana, the land of unspoiled landscapes and big blue skies is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful states in America. Featuring a wide range of activities, historical sites and natural splendors such as pristine meadows, tremendous river valleys, gorgeous mountains and glaciers, The Big Sky Country offers foreigners a clear image of the genuine American West. Most important tourist attractions in Montana comprise the mesmerizing Glacier National Park, Lawis & Clark Trail, Yellowstone (three entrances are located in Montana), the wonderful Big Ski resort nearby and of course the Montana Rocky Mountains situated in the western part of the state.
1. California
Photo by *~Dawn~*
Because it’s charming and because it has it all from iconic beaches and fascinating cities to picturesque vineyards, rugged mountains, quiet forests, marvelous lakes, remarkable parks and dramatic deserts, California stands atop of my list as the most beautiful state in the US. Besides, the Golden State is home of some unique destinations such as Hollywood, Disneyland, Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley wine region and the charming San Francisco Bay area, to name but a few.
Yeah California! I really want to visit Montana.
I feel so lucky to live in Oregon. It is such a beautiful, beautiful place – even in all shades of gray weather. Montana & Alaska are close runners up for me too though. I’d also include Washington & Wyoming on the list.
What can I say, I hope to visit them all one day. Oh, and Texas, too.
I agree with you, Oregon is wonderful. As for the other states, I would’ve liked to include them all, but ..it was only room for 10. However, each of them deserves a post of its own, so stay in touch:).
It actually hurt my eyes looking at these breath stopping images. I’d say you’ve pretty well nailed the list. Arizona is the jewel in my travel crown as a self confessed desert junkie. Under one ‘roof’ you have the Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, Saquaro Forst, the Meteor Crater, Arizona-Sonora Desert… and the list goes on. It is impossible not to want to photograph these. Many countries have grand vistas to stop us in our tracks but the USA can boast a phenomenally diverse buffet of natural wonders on scales that are no doubt visible from space too. I think rating a place has as much to do with what it looks like (does it knock our socks off?) as to how it makes us feel. Stand beneath the cliffs of Yosemite and listen to what resonates within you. Awe. Humility. Insignificance. Privilege. Even fear. When a place moves you like that, it’s usually to another good place and a great reason to keep on travelling.
As a native of California, former resident of Arizona and current resident of Colorado, I couldn’t agree with your list more!
Thanks for the wonderful comment, Yvette. By the way, your photos are absolutely breathtaking.
Hi Janice,
Before writing this post, I was so afraid that many Americans won’t agree (which is normal, because everyone loves its own state and each state has its own charm). However, your comment comes like a breath of fresh air:). Thanks!
Miruna, those are some incredible pictures. I would say that I definitely agree for the most part to your state listings. I’d say on a random note Louisiana could give #8 Michigan a run for its money, but then again I haven’t yet been to them all. But I will soon!
Thanks Andy! Enjoy your travels!
Miruna, where is my lovely New York?
Hi Christian,
, but in my opinion, the states mentioned above are more beautiful than NY State.
New York is my favorite city in the world
Ok, I can accept that
Mmmmm… Arizona dessert landscape… (drooling noises)
i like arizona
Thanks for including Michigan! Traverse City is one of the most charming towns in the US!
Thanks for the tip, Adam!
Yellowstone is primarily in Wyoming. It really should only be mentioned if Wyoming were on this list.
I judge by eco-diversity, affordability and ability to actual enjoy the environment. California is becoming a third world ghetto. It’s Pacific waters are filthy. The state is so large that taxes and gas prices make affordability nearly impossible and travel a rare occasion. I would put California at number 3 or 2 if not for its government.
1. Wyoming (Forests, Deserts, Mountains, Rivers and Lakes)
2. Colorado. My home (Forests, Deserts, Mountains, Rivers and Lakes)
3. Oregon (Forests, Mountains, Rivers and Lakes)
4. Washington (Forests, Mountains, Rivers and Lakes)
5. Texas (Plains, Valleys, Lakes and Gulf Of Mexico)
6. Minnesota (Forests, Mountains, Rivers and Lakes)
7. California (Forests, Deserts, Mountains, Rivers and Lakes)
8. Virginia (Endless forests, prairies, foothills, valleys, rivers and lakes)
Thanks for your suggestions, Nick! Sounds interesting!
Gonna have to agree with nick. Wyoming is king!!!
Love Wyoming!! Here’s my list: 1. Alaska 2. Idaho 3. Iowa 4. Maine 5. Minnesota 6. Michigan 7. New Hampshire 8. Ohio 9. Oregon 10. Wyoming
no arizona? really?
any list that doesn’t include washington is no list at all. Cascade and Olympic mountains, the puget sound and pacific coast, the largest expanse of temperate rainforest in the US, and that’s just the west side of the state. In the east you have amazing geologic structures such as the columbia gorge and scablands, the palouse in the southeast, and the foothill of the rockies in the north east.
Hi Andy,
I’m sure Washington is beautiful and I would love to visit it some day. However this is a subjective list and all your suggestions are welcome!
come visit mississippi maruna!!!!!
I’m an Indian and I havnt visited the US. Bt if I do my top priorities wil be montana,michigan, wyoming,florida,utah,colorado and of course oregon,as i’m a nature lover. I’ve only seen pictures bt from your discussion now I’m sure I’m nt wrong.
Colorado
I know its opinion, but you skipped the entire Appalachian mountain chain, one of the most beautiful areas in the world (subjectively). Virginia or maybe New Hampshire or North Carolina needs to be on there! Think of Virginia, the Shenandoah valley, Atlantic ocean beaches and dunes, vast forests of rolling hills, beautiful lakes and beautiful rivers like the Potomac or the James. Great list though.
Mississippi is another state that in my opinion is beautiful. It has a very ugly reputation but if you visit you will fall in love. Also we have amazing southern hostility.
I can’t disagree with your opinion
My passion is motorcycle touring and I’ve traveled to all states mentioned except Alaska and Hawaii. For diversity, I would have to say California is tops on the list bar none. The combination of deserts, mountains, coastlines and BIG trees is amazing. That state almost has it all. I say almost because if you like “swamps”, you’ll have to go south for that.
My home base is in northeast Georgia in the Blue Ridge Mountains and I have to give a shout-out for my state. You will find not find a more geographically diverse state east of the Mississippi. We have beautiful mountains, plains, wetlands, and coast-lines. I can’t think of a better place to live If you like to travel (the world’s busiest airport is also just down the road). Interestingly enough, I find the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen to be in the southwest plains of Georgia in the fall. There’s something about the open fields of peanuts and onions that yields the most spectacular hues of purple and orange when the sun is sliding below the horizon.
Lived in 4 of the top 10! Oregon is my favorite as far as landscape but the lack of sun is not pleasant. Utah, Colorado, and Florida are the other states. We hope to settle in colorado soon.