Attractions are the kind of things that show up etched on your state’s quarter—each is quirky or awe-inspiringand utterly distinctive: the kind of thing you can instantly picture when someone mentions it. An example? The Space Needle in Seattle or Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. These destinations draw millions of visitors annually to stareappreciate and get that bucket list photograph.

Although you may find another Golden Gate Bridge in Lisbon and a (much) smaller Statue of Liberty in Parisusually these attractions are linked to a particular American citypart of its lore and pride: the very thing for which postcards and tote bags were invented. Track these down all over the country and check them off your list; after allyou haven’t really traveled until you’ve seen Abe Lincoln’s statue sitting stoically on its plinth at the National Mall in WashingtonD.C.or placed yourself on the brink of the Grand Canyon staring into the vastness. Here’s our list of the 26 best American attractions you need to put on your itinerary this year!

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