by Annette Maraist

Created on: January 31, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

America is a diverse, exciting land with many spots which would be fascinating for tourists. These five areas are, in my opinion, the top five tourist attractions in the USA.

Disney World is the most visited tourist attraction in the world. Did you know that Disney World is twice the size of Manhattan? Nestled in the once-open lands of Orlando, Florida, Disney World is the world's biggest assortment of theme parks, water parks, and resorts.

(1) The reason I put Disney in the top spot is because a Disney vacation is both fun and educational. I was fortunate enough to visit Disney World at least once a year for many years. If you let the kid inside of you come out, visiting here is an unforgettable experience.

My favorite hotel is the Polynesian Village Resort. It is pricey, however. Rooms run from $355-$895. The tranquil atmosphere of an Hawaiian village makes it worth it.

The All-Stars Resorts are themed to American pop culture. The rooms run from $82-$160.

(2) St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest permanent European settlement in America. St. Augustine was already settled for 55 years by the time the Pilgrims arrived in Plymouth Rock.

I chose St. Augustine because of its' fascinating history. Here stands the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, and the Oldest House- both built in the 1700's. It is a quaint and caharming town.

The Monterey Inn is an oustanding value at $109-$159 a nite. (904)824-4482 or www.themontereyinn.com.

(3) Colonial New England is an interesting stop for tourists. In 1620 Pilgrims sailed from England to settle in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Here is where the first Thanksgiving was celebrated. Colonial life is reconstructed at Plimoth Plantation.

There is a replica of The Mayflower, the 17th century ship that the Pilgrims sailed on.

The Pilgrim Sands Motel is across the street from Plimoth Plantation. This modern motel features rooms at $175-$225 a nite. (800)729-7263. www.pilgrimsands.com.

(4) The Grand Canyon, encompassing Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado is one of the natural wonders of the world. Whether you are flying over it, or hiking in it, this is an awesome sight. There are hiking, river rafting, horseback riding, helicopter rides, and airplane tours.

For the budget-minded there is the Grand Canyon International Hostel in Flagstaff. Located in a historic building, this hotel has a four-person maximum to a room. (888)442-2696.

(5) As a patriotic person, I have to include Washington, D.C. on my list. In 1790 Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton put into motion the idea of having Washington, D.C. as the country's capital.

George Washington was the only President who did not live in the White House. The Presidents' residence and office are in the White House.

The Library of Congress is the world's largest library, and it began with Thomas Jefferson's private books.

John F. Kennedy is buried at Arlington Cemetery, along with thousands of other heroes and patriots.

D.C. Digs in Dupont Circle has luxurious personal touches like homey living rooms and fully-stocked kitchens, but it is very reasonably priced at $125-$175 a nite. (202)265-2415.www.dcdigs.com.

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