The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) selects many locations and landmarks around the world, each providing a special significance to the local culture, and humanity as a whole. Currently the United States has 22-sites marked by UNESCO. While the five below are some of our favorites, the remaining 17-domestic sites are worth seeing and exploring. Don’t forget to visit the international locations too, as there are countless others scattered across the globe.

5) Statue of Liberty
Easily one of the most symbolic structures in the history of our country, our lady liberty was a welcome sign for many of our nations ancestors upon arriving at New York Harbour. The statue represents all that we stand for and is without a doubt, a must see attraction. A quick ferry ride from both New York and New Jersey is all that separates travelers from this symbolic structure.

Photo courtesy | David Phan

4) Grand Canyon
Located in the state of Arizona, the Grand Canyon is one of the most astonishing sights our country has to offer. Carved out by the Colorado River and reaching a depth of over 6,000 feet with an 18-mile width at times, the Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular geological formations in the world. The park’s diverse topography has allowed for an array of ecosystems to thrive. Travelers in search of a majestic view won’t be disappointed by the numerous lookouts found here.

Photo courtesy | Paul Fundenburg

3) Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is located primarily in Wyoming, although it does extend into parts of Idaho and Montana. The park is so vast that it contains half of the world’s known geothermal features and illustrates them with over 10,000-examples. This park has also been home to many Native Americans for over 11,000-years. Yellowstone sits on a volcanic hot spot, adding to the locations unique and mystic atmosphere. The park contains a mixture of canyons, forests, rivers, and the worlds’ largest concentration of geysers, creating heart-stopping views around every corner. The most famous being Old Faithful, an enormous geyser that’s also one of earth’s most predictable.

Photo courtesy | Guido da Rozze

2) Yosemite National Park
Located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National park provides a beautiful mountainous landscape, sought after by adventure travelers across the globe. With over 800-miles of hiking trails, Yosemite has more to offer than one can imagine. Nature lovers will find a plethora of astonishing wildlife, accompanied by an insurmountable number of magnificent acreage that pictures simply cannot describe.

Photo courtesy | Su-May

1) Redwood National and State Park
Set along northern California’s coast, Redwood National Park primary features some of the tallest trees to ever sprout on our planet, some dating back over 160-million years. While the trees are the location’s main attraction, the park offers much more than just gigantic wood. It contains equally fascinating wildlife, including sea lions, the endangered Californian Brown Pelican, and of course, our countries beloved bald eagle.

These brief descriptions could never do each destination its due justice. It’s highly encouraged that any traveler looking to visit new sights should visit these destinations, along with the rest of the domestic UNESCO sites. Preservation is another important aspect of these sites. While many of us take for granted the everlasting appearance, the sustained existence of these locations are up to us to protect. While we’ve had the foremost privilege to visit these sites, without proper environmental attention these wildlife foundations could become a history lesson for generations to come. Take in these natural wonders, but simultaneously support the protection of these breathtaking features.

Photo courtesy | Grant Montgomery