Like to see more of the USA but want to start with the best? While sources might not all agree on which US states are the best, there are several states that appear on a majority of “most beautiful states” lists. Each state was evaluated on diversity, visual highlights, and man-made and natural beauty. So read on and see if you agree with this list of the top 20 most beautiful states in the USA.

The Top 20 Most Beautiful States in the USA

1. California

California tops the list of most beautiful states in the USA today. The state spans an area of roughly 163,696 square miles so it is large enough to offer visitors just about any type of landscape they could imagine. (Your rovin’ writer, currently based in California, can see snow-capped mountains, the desert, a teeming metropolis, and a beach all within one day, in fact.)  

Here you can find plenty of culture and entertainment in Los Angeles, a city with rolling hills, such as San Francisco, and an odd, arid landscape such as Joshua Tree too. California includes forests, lakes, parks, and vineyards too. Yosemite National Park is one of the best places to experience the state’s natural beauty. There’s also Lake Tahoe, Mount Shasta, Napa Valley, and the Redwood National Forest. Be sure to stop and visit the famous General Sherman Tree in stunning Sequoia National Park, too, and see some of the world’s largest trees!

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Montana

Also known as Big Sky Country, the state includes 147,040 square miles and is home (in part) to famous Yellowstone National Park. Regular readers know the park is so large it covers property in the states of Wyoming and Idaho too! Beyond its share of this popular park though, Montana has a number of other unspoiled features as well.

Famous for its blue skies, it offers visitors adventure too. Here you can follow the historic Lewis & Clark Trail, and take in the view of the Rocky Mountains and gorgeous Glacier National Park. The latter is known for the Little Bighorn Monument, snow-capped peaks, and the popular Triple Divide Pass, which is home to a variety of wildlife and is highlighted by additional rugged, natural wonders.

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Alaska

Alaska may be a bit more difficult to reach, but it offers unique picturesque snowscapes. See such unforgettable ranges as the beautiful Brooks Range. Both the striking Chugach National Forest and Tongass National Forest are memorable no matter what time of the year you choose to visit them.

Indeed, they demonstrate the 49th state’s versatility of beauty. Let’s not forget that if you plan your visit carefully, you also could very well witness the world-famous Aurora Borealis, it’s a wonderful natural light show. As previously reported, Visit from August into May, when the lights are the most visible. 

The Northern Lights become even more intense between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Other highlights here include the Arctic Circle, the Kenai Fjords National Park, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, Anchorage, and Denali National Park and Preserve. Go whale-watching as well.

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Hawaii

Hawaii, the 50th state, is a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean roughly 2,000 from the mainland. It offers travelers the opportunity to see stunning attractions that cannot be found anywhere else in the country. Hawaii is highlighted by diverse scenery and a surprising variety of both flora and fauna.

History buffs won’t want to miss Pearl Harbor. Indeed, this lagoon harbor is of significant import and a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, while somewhat sobering, will provide visitors with an education that anyone can appreciate. Regular readers recall there are many other highlights here as well.  

They include such places as Haleakala National Park, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the popular Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument. Kilauea, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa reportedly draw an impressive number of travelers each year thanks to both their uniqueness and the surrounding landscape around these mountains and volcanoes.

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Utah

Utah makes the list of most beautiful states for its striking natural beauty and rustic charm. Indeed, there are several examples of this natural beauty including Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and even the rugged Rocky Mountain Basin and its inimitable geological wonders. There’s also the breathtaking Rainbow Bridge. Sources confirm that this is actually the largest natural bridge crossing lovely Lake Powell.  

(It’s also quite Instagrammable!) The Wave is another natural phenomenon of note. It is a striking canyon that includes wave marks along its edges. It spans southern Utah and Northern Arizona.

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Washington

The state of Washington in the Pacific Northwest spans an area of 71,362 square miles. Its many magnificent sights earn it a slot on this current list of beautiful states. Sure, there are lots of things to see in such cities as Seattle, but there is natural beauty to be found here as well.

The state’s north-central region is arguably dominated by the North Cascades which are quite dramatic in appearance alone. Discover the forests, gleaming ice, stark rocks, and rugged peaks. Explore the North Cascades National Park.

One of the state’s most famous attractions is majestic Mt. Rainier. It includes the highest quantity of glaciers of all the mountains located in the contiguous US. It also has verdant forests, rushing rivers, and wildflower meadows as well.

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Colorado

Experience that famous “Rocky Mountain High” amidst the natural beauty and picturesque landscapes of Colorado. While the mountains here really are inspiring, visitors can find awe-inspiring beauty almost anywhere in Colorado. In addition to the massive mountains, the popular Great Sand Dunes National Park offers exceptional examples of the state’s pretty desert landscapes.  

Get a contrasting view of the desert sand dunes here, by visiting gorgeous Glenwood Springs. Don’t leave here without checking out the wonderful mineral hot springs either! They are the world’s largest, with two different pools right there.

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Arizona

Seasoned US travelers already know that Arizona is the home of the world-famous Grand Canyon, and it also receives at least 325 days of sun annually. That alone should score it a place on this list of most beautiful states. Located in the popular American Southwest, this state is a stunning mix of assorted elements set in a striking desert.

If you are not familiar with desert environments, you might think they are dull and boring. Ah, but the multi-colored cliffs and sand provide visitors with some distinctive views. Arizona provides travelers with a unique blend of Indigenous culture, natural rock formations, and Old West towns. There are also great places for exceptional stargazing and a number of picture-perfect locations such as national monuments and canyons. Even the cities here are cinematically backdropped by the canyons and rugged landscape.

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Oregon

If you enjoy visiting places that offer striking contrasts and a little something for pretty much everyone, Oregon is the place for you. It includes cultural sites, lovely lakes, mighty mountains, and more. One highlight here is Crater Lake.

It’s actually a part of the striking South Oregon Cascades. It is a perfect place for camping, diving, hiking, swimming, and watching wildlife. One of the most picturesque locales here is Hells Canyon. Despite the intimidating name, it is a beautiful 653,000 acres of colorful flowers, green grass, rushing rivers, and more.

When it comes to mountains, Mt. Hood is the main majestic attraction in the state. It is really a gorgeous addition to any lovely landscape. Climb it and enjoy truly breathtaking views.

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Florida

You don’t name a place “the Sunshine State” if it’s lacking in beauty, and Florida has its share. It comes complete with beautiful white-sand beaches, cobalt waters, welcoming tropical climates, and a bit of Latin charm. The cities here are lively and bright, with plenty to see and do too.

Florida offers visitors a diverse group of natural landscapes and ecosystems to explore. The country’s largest subtropical wilderness, the Everglades, is one example. It’s a great place for any nature lover or outdoor enthusiast to see. If you enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving, Florida is home to a number of colorful coral reefs.  

More adventurous explorers should enjoy the dank, mysterious mangrove swamps and wetlands. It’s a great place to escape the winter cold as well. Furthermore, this state melds the natural and the artificial, and the untamed with the modern. You just need to know where to go!

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Michigan

Travelers often overlook this Midwestern, Great Lakes state. Nevertheless, it earns its place on the list of most beautiful states in the USA. Here you will discover 11,000 freshwater lakes, numerous attractive islands, and a lovely lakeshore as well.  

Both the upper and lower peninsulas offer visitors outdoor fun. Michigan actually specializes in untamed, wild natural areas. Visit verdant forests, big sandy bluffs, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches, pretty blue water, and natural rock and sandstone formations to boot.

Additionally, there are delightfully charming towns here complete with an art culture, a food scene, and handsome historic buildings. Some say the best time to visit this state is during the summer months because you can best take advantage of the camping, swimming, and outdoor opportunities. On the other hand, winter is also a good time to visit if you head for the coast. You can check out the crystalline ice forms there on the shore.

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Maine

Maine has quietly and slowly gained a reputation as a strikingly beautiful vacation destination, especially with nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Veteran visitors can confirm there is a true charm in the state’s untamed wilderness. Maine’s coastline includes rough cliffs and naturally rugged beaches, and thousands of coastal islands to see.

If you enjoy spending time in wooded areas, Maine has those too. Be sure to visit Acadia National Park. It is here you will find sandy beaches, towering mountains, dense forests, verdant greenery, multiple hiking trails, and more. Regular readers may readily recall that one of the best times to travel to Maine is in the fall. You can witness a cornucopia of color as the leaves change color. Mind you, there’s always something to see here regardless of when you visit.

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North Carolina

Are you a road trip aficionado? If so, then take note. Travel writers report that this state is the “perfect road trip destination.” Here you will experience the beautiful scenery firsthand.

Don’t forget the famous Blue Ridge Mountains either. In fact, there are other renowned mountains throughout North Carolina’s fringes including the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains. (In fact, your rugged rovin’ writer has hiked portions of all of them and can vouch for their raw beauty!)

North Carolina has more than natural beauty though. It also has its own individual combination of aesthetics. Here you will notice a welcome, quirky blend of Bohemian vibes, hip originality, and warm Southern charm. Be sure to include the Outer Banks on your itinerary too. Take in the scenic coastline and the large beaches that are great for both relaxing and exploring.  

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Vermont

Vermont may be nigh-famous for its comparatively sparse population, and yet it is reported to be one of the country’s most active states. Here there are a number of natural, wide-open spaces between the towns. The picturesque villages here are nestled amidst clear streams, lovely lakes, and lush rollin’ hills.

Unlike some places in the world, this state is one of the best places to experience the natural beauty that has not yet been lost in the downside of what travel writers sometimes call “tourist hotspot marketing.” You can visit any time as those who have been saying Vermont “is gorgeous” all year long. Ah, but in autumn, leaf lovers have the chance to see all the foliage change color as the area is spattered with shades of gold, orange, and scarlet. There are obviously several reasons why vacation homes are quite popular in such places as New England.

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Tennessee

This state is partial home to the rugged Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and yet its beauty is all too often unappreciated. Here you can explore lovely landlocked verdant pastures and hills. Tennessee’s Big South Fork offers striking, nigh-jaw-dropping hiking trails, natural bridges, and natural arches as well.

This state is also home to the biggest man-made crystal cave, the most-visited national park, and the nation’s largest underground lake. Additionally, you will find brilliantly sparkling high waterfalls and even some great places for beautiful scenic drives.  

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Wyoming

Wyoming is the “Equality State” and it certainly is at least equal to several of the top 20 most beautiful states in the USA. Mind you, with a total area of 97,914 square miles, many people think of the state and picture picturesque prairies stretching outward in all directions for huge distances. They imagine it sprinkled with quirky small towns with quaint charm and historic architecture too.

The forests here are filled with tall, towering trees and a surprisingly comparatively low number of locals allows more leeway in travel time too. The expansive state’s distinctly diverse landscape allows visitors to view several different types of beauty too. Take in the sight of the majestic mountain ranges mightily rising in the background as they practically beg to be climbed and hiked. Be both inspired and intrigued by such sites as Grand Teton and Devils Tower. Don’t forget world-famous Yellowstone National Park and the nigh-iconic Red Canyon either!  

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Wisconsin

Ok, we admit it. The state of Wisconsin is not normally renowned for its overall appearance. All the more the pity.  

Nevertheless, veteran visitors can confirm that you really should give America’s Dairyland a chance. Also known as the Badger State, the state’s geography was forever marked by the Ice Age as well as a number of different natural features that actually blend together to birth not a hodge-podge appearance but rather an enhanced natural wonder.

The state of Wisconsin features over 15,000 lakes and an additional 800 miles of shore around the state’s sections of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Wisconsin’s attractive array of rural and country scenery also includes stark cliffs, lush forests, rugged stone bridges, various water sources, and the unforgettable Ice Age Trail that goes on for 1,200 miles as well.

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New Mexico

New Mexico in the Southwestern US may be called the Land of Enchantment, but it is not really considered a big tourist destination. Still, it slots in on the list of the top 20 most beautiful states in the USA. It is one of the “Mountain States” of the well-known southern Rocky Mountains.

New Mexico is also famous for being one of the Four Corners states. It shares that honor with the states of Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. New Mexico has a total area of 121,591 square miles and some of its scenery has been seen in the hit TV program “Breaking Bad”, contrasting its beauty and intrigue with its lesser-known status.  

This is a great place to include on road trips because it comes complete with an arid desert, magnificent mountains, and winding canyons as well. Be sure to stop to explore the White Sands National Park, which features undulating white sand dunes that some experts say are much more beautiful than other local deserts. For a moment’s peace and relaxation, there is the steamy San Antonio Hot Spring. You should also check out the numerous natural rock formations, and the cave dwellings that reportedly harken back to mankind’s early days.

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Virginia

This striking state is nestled in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of the US, between the enormous Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Coast. Spanning an area of 42,774.2 square miles, this state’s picture-perfect hills and sandy beaches are outshined only by its noteworthy vineyards. Both the manmade and natural scenery here is both stunning and terribly underrated.

If you especially enjoy going green, be sure to hike or even drive through popular Shenandoah National Park. Enjoy the distinctive flora and fauna. Plan your visit to the park at the right time and you may also be able to attend the six-day Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester which includes parades and live bluegrass music.  

Other festivals of interest include the Virginia State Fair and the Neptune Festival in September. If you like air shows and boat racing, visit in June and enjoy Norfolk’s Harborfest. Don’t forget the Famous Virginia Lake Festival in Clarksville in July either!

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New York

Located in the Northeastern United States, many refer to it as New York State in order to more easily distinguish it from its biggest city, the Big Apple, New York City. The Empire State covers an area of 54,556 square miles and is the 27th-largest state by area in the country. While New York City is a must-see for visitors, do not confuse the state with the major metropolis.

With two mountain ranges and three different coasts, this state easily earns the 20th slot here as one of the most beautiful states in the country. Yes, regular readers already know that New York City has many highlighters and attractions worthy of attention including both parks and architecture. It’s got incredible art, food, and cultural scenes as well. Still, those who wish to enjoy the great outdoors should consider other areas of the state.

Make Your Plans Now!

If we have piqued your interest and you wish to see the top 20 most beautiful states in the USA, then don’t wait too long to work out your itinerary. Make your plans now! After all, the fact is that the USA is jam-packed full of beautiful places to experience.  

It certainly is no easy task to select but a few of them out of all the available options. At least now you have a list of the veritable “best of the bunch.” Mind you, it’s also worth noting the old axiom “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

What do you think are the most beautiful states? Why? Let us know in the comment section.

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