National Monuments in the United States are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With so many to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 national monuments in the US for 2023.
Statue of Liberty National Monument
The Statue of Liberty National Monument is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It is a symbol of freedom and democracy in the United States and is recognized throughout the world. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and climb the statue for a breathtaking view of New York City.
Mount Rushmore National Monument
Mount Rushmore National Monument is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. It features the faces of four US presidents – George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln – carved into the mountain. Visitors can take a guided tour of the monument and learn about its history and significance.
Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument
The Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument is located in northern Arizona. It encompasses over one million acres of land and features stunning canyons, mesas, and other natural formations. Visitors can hike, camp, and explore the area’s unique wildlife and geology.
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine are located in Baltimore, Maryland. It played a significant role in the War of 1812 and is best known for inspiring Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Visitors can tour the fort, watch live demonstrations, and learn about the site’s history.
White Sands National Monument
White Sands National Monument is located in southern New Mexico. It features the world’s largest gypsum dune field, with over 275 square miles of white sand dunes. Visitors can hike, camp, and even sled down the sand dunes.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is located in southern Arizona. It features unique desert landscapes and rare plants, including the organ pipe cactus. Visitors can hike, camp, and explore the area’s wildlife and geology.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Cedar Breaks National Monument is located in southwestern Utah. It features a natural amphitheater of eroded red rock formations that resemble a large coliseum. Visitors can hike, camp, and explore the area’s geology and natural beauty.
Devils Tower National Monument
Devil’s Tower National Monument is located in northeastern Wyoming. It is a unique geological formation, with a column-like structure that rises over 800 feet above the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike, climb, and learn about the site’s cultural significance.
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is located in northern California. It features an old-growth redwood forest that is over 1,000 years old. Visitors can hike, explore the area’s wildlife, and learn about the site’s history and conservation efforts.
Pipe Spring National Monument
Pipe Spring National Monument is located in northern Arizona. It features a historic fort and a natural spring that was used by Native American tribes and Mormon pioneers. Visitors can tour the fort, learn about the area’s history, and explore the surrounding natural beauty.
In conclusion, the United States is home to a diverse array of national monuments that offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich history and natural beauty. From the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor to the towering Devil’s Tower in Wyoming, each monument has its own unique story to tell.
