by Mikalyn

Created on: January 27, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

What are the top five tourist destinations in the United States? It's a small number to say the least. There are so many beautiful, breathtaking and heartwarming sights. Your favorites may depend on what type of tourist you are. Are you looking for fine art and historical significance? Or a hot spot for night life and entertainment. The USA will provide destinations for all styles of travelers and tourists; and here are a few to start with.

1. Washington D.C. Mall. This heartening center of America's history should be at the top of everyone's list. History buff or not, the D.C.
Memorial Park will have something to spark your interest. Wander the Smithsonian; discover the Hope Diamond and the Wright Brothers first aircraft. Visit the Lincoln
memorial, a sight familiar to the world's eye and touch the stone for yourself. Finally, grab a bite while strolling along the Washington Memorials reflection pool. Yes, there is even a Hard Rock Caf for those interested in a little more action.

2. Times Square.
New York; Americans Mecca for metropolitan vacationing. With a vast array of options this is a destination that is proven to be enjoyable for everyone. From here you can visit Broadway, learn about the cities rich history, sign up for a guided tour of New York's sights, go shopping in one of the nations finest retail districts or sit back, enjoy a beer and watch a baseball game. Times Square is the beating heart of America; a must see for all travelers.

3. Sedona, AZ.
A hop, skip and a jump away from one of the world's seven natural wonders, the Grand Canyon, Sedona is trifled with tourist related activity. Take a hike through the wonders of the Red Rock
National Park; it's like a scene from an old western. Sedona isn't only for nature lovers, however. Its rich and formidable art district is worth the trip by itself. Jerome, an old mining camp turned artist colony gives tourists a chance to experience southwestern art in an old ghost town setting. Don't miss Sedona's unique opportunity to experience a modern wild west.

4. Las Vegas. Sin city is always a hot spot for newlyweds, college winter breaks, night life aficionados and gamblers. There is much more to Vegas than showgirls and slot machines. Even if you are not a gambler or you're packing the kids, the breathtaking productions like O and Mystere are sure to astound the entire family. Every casino is its own production. Stand outside the Bellagios' eight acre lake and watch the fantastic water show. Or catch a bit of street magic in front of the wondrous Luxor
hotel.

5. San Francisco. Well, Dylan and Dead fans will like my last destination; San Fran, home to so many attractions. Visit the legendary corner of Height and Ashbury, take a tour of Alcatraz and walk across the Golden Gate Bridge; only three of the many things to do in San Francisco. Famous for its style, there are guided shopping tours for those who are seeking to splurge. On the historical side, Hearst
Castle built in the early 1900's or the Mare Island Naval Shipyard which has artifacts dating back to the Spanish conquistadors may satisfy your lust for learning.

The list can go on, but these five destinations are solid pinnacles in American culture. From fine art and fashion to historical exploration and natural wonders to the life of America's party these hot spots should be on your travel radar when traveling the United States.

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