by Angie Walls

Created on: February 01, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Whether travelers want to get back to nature, revisit the greatest moments in history, or make new family memories, the U.S. has something for everyone. From East to West, local and foreign travelers will discover an abundance of exciting attractions, which protect and openly share the history, culture, and vibrant spirit of America. For decades, the following five attractions have continued to attract a large volume of tourism.

Orlando's Hub of Theme Parks

Without a doubt, Orlando is the #1 family destination in the country. Nowhere else in the U.S. will you find such a collection of amusement parks so close together. Indulge your kids (as well as yourself) by keeping the fun times rolling at Disney World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld, Gatorland, and Cypress Gardens.

The Grand Canyon

Known all over the world, this natural wonder is definitely considered an once-in-a-lifetime journey. There's more than one way to gaze into the awe-inspiring gorge. You can tour the Grand Canyon from the skies via helicopter, or travel by bus or foot for a close-up view that will take your breath away. Right in the middle of Mother Nature's finest work, the Grand Canyon National Park is not far from the Muir Woods Forest, Yosemite Park, and the wide-stretching mountains, valleys, lakes, and parks that dominate the West Coast.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Take the three-mile walk down Hollywood Boulevard's famous sidewalk that commemorates the biggest names in entertainment: Diana Ross, The Beatles, Mickey Mouse, Julie Andrews, Desi Arnaz, Fred Astaire, Humphrey Bogart, David Copperfield, and more than 2,000 others. While you're in the neighborhood, you'll have the chance to visit the iconic landmarks of the area like the Capitol Records building, Graumann's Chinese Theater, and the Kodak Theater.

The Statue of Liberty

Many travelers make the long journey to New York, not just for the Broadway shows or the dazzling lights of Times Square. The Statue of Liberty is more than a monument it is an inspirational symbol of freedom for millions of people. After arriving by boat to Liberty Island, tour the inside of the statue and discover the widespread message of hope that it has offered to the world for 123 years. Join other visitors as they hop over to Ellis Island, where you can hear about the extraordinary stories and see the actual records of immigrants arriving in the early 1900s.

National Memorials of Washington

What better place to start than the nation's capital? Travel back in time to the days of glory in America's past. There are numerous places to pay homage to the fallen heroes of past wars. Take the long path of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a long, reflective granite wall carved with over 58,000 names of soldiers, who gave their lives during the war. Or behold the country's largest burial ground, containing John F. Kennedy's grave and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, at Arlington National Cemetery. Also centered in the capital are the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Holocaust Museum, Iwo Jima Memorial, World War II Memorial, and African-American Civil War Memorial, free to the public.

These big five destinations are perfectly made for every traveler, and are definite must-sees for even just once in your lifetime. Available for free and even limited budgets, these major attractions offer the right distractions that many travelers seek.

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