The 50 Best Free Tourist Attractions in the United States
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
26. US Capitol building tours
A tour (advanced reservations required) of the beautiful US Capitol building is a must-do on any first time visit to D.C. Tickets are free and include a 45 min-1 hour guided tour through The Crypt, the Rotunda, and the National Statuary Hall. You will learn lots of unique historical tidbits, plus see some really incredible architecture including 2 statues (of prominent figures) representing each state. The murals are unbelievable, especially the Apotheosis of Washington in the eye of the Rotunda.
27. New England leaf peeping
The New England states of Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts are easily the most gorgeous places to be during the peak of fall. Whether via hiking, boat rides, or scenic drives, there are endless places to enjoy the vivid hues of autumn. Fortunately, there are so many wonderful free state parks to enjoy.
A few of the best free fall foliage hotspots:
- Myles Standish State Forest – Gorgeous 13,000 acre forest in Southeast Massachusetts near historical Plymouth.
- Minuteman Bikeway – Gorgeous 11 mile paved bike trail through the beautiful Boston suburbs.
- Blue Hills Reservation – Large recreational oasis just 10 miles outside of Boston. Tons of hiking trails.
- Devil’s Hopyard – Gorgeous Southeastern CT state park home to a covered bridge and waterfall.
- Roger Williams Park – Large park featuring numerous recreational facilities and a zoo.
28. Niagara Falls
An eighth world wonder is an unofficial title given to mesmerizing places which didn’t make the original seven world wonders cut. Niagara Falls is oftentimes considered one of the “7 natural wonders of the world.” While it is not the tallest waterfall in the US, it is an enchanting site worth putting on your bucket list. It is considered the most voluminous due to the high flow rate. Niagara Falls is composed of 3 waterfalls: Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil. While many attractions are pricey, it’s free to view the falls via the observation deck and hike at beautiful Niagara Falls State Park.
29. Coconino National Forest
The largest ponderosa pine forest in the world lies within the Coconino National Forest in Flagstaff. The northern portion of Arizona is a nature lover’s dream destination with enough gorgeous hiking trails to last a lifetime. Northern Arizona sees a 4 season climate with attractive 80 degree summers. Thus, it’s no surprise that Phoenix residents flock here in droves to escape the heat of the desert. Many trails feature gorgeous views of the San Francisco Peaks, the state’s tallest mountain range at 12,637 ft. Some are fall foliage hotspots, while others are perfect for a tranquil winter snowshoeing adventure. In my opinion, Flagstaff is the best hiking destination out West.
Best trails in Flagstaff:
- Aspen Nature Loop – 1.5 mile stroll featuring wonderful views of nearby volcanic fields.
- Cookstove Trail – Rough 0.7 mile uphill climb to a premier viewpoint of Oak Creek Canyon.
- Inner Basin trail – 1.7 mile uphill climb through dense aspen groves. Best fall color hike in the West.
- Slate Mountain – Gorgeous 2.5 mile hard hike to an amazing overlook of the San Francisco Peaks.
Check out my favorite hikes in Flagstaff, Arizona
30. Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Valley NP
The most scenic waterfall in the Midwest can be easily accessed via a short, yet scenic hike at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. As one of the nation’s few free national parks, Cuyahoga is definitely worth going out of your way for, especially if you are visiting the Cleveland region. In addition to seeing this magnificent 60 foot waterfall wonder, there are a number of great hiking trails, plus a scenic train ride and a popular paved biking trail.
