There’s a boundless array of attractions in the USA for tourists wherever one’s compass may point. For instance, in the Northeast, you’ll find NYC’s iconic Statue of Liberty and Boston’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace. The Midwest holds tourist magnets such as Chicago’s Millennium Park. On the West Coast are perennial favorites like the lively Las Vegas Strip and star-studded Hollywood. Meanwhile, the Mountain States boasts gorgeous national parks. And in the sunny South, there are theme parks galore that the whole family can enjoy. So, get ready to pack your bags and head to any of these top tourist destinations in the USA.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota
35
Dominating the landscape at Mount Rushmore National Memorial are carvings of the heads of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum presided over the project, which saw completion in 1941. Each figure represents a concept. For instance, Washington stands for the nation’s birth and Jefferson for its growth. Roosevelt represents American development while Lincoln embodies preservation.
But, magnificent as they are, the presidential carvings aren’t the only reason to tour Mount Rushmore. This gorgeous area in the Black Hills of South Dakota is also home to otherworldly caves, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. No wonder it’s among the top tourist destinations in the USA.
Statue Of Liberty, NYC
34
A gift from France, the Statue of Liberty towers over New York Harbor. This neoclassical copper sculpture, standing 305 feet (93 meters) high, depicts the Roman goddess of liberty. Quite apt, because for millions of immigrants, she symbolizes a new life in the land of the free. The Statue of Liberty ranks among the top attractions in the USA for tourists, of which there were 4.3 million in 2018.
Near the lady’s base is the Statue of Liberty Museum. Opened in 2019, it features exhibits showcasing the statue’s history and construction. Would you like to climb to the statue’s crown? If so, you’ll need to buy tickets in advance from Statue Cruises, the only official source for crown reservations.
Zion National Park, Utah
33
Zion National Park is a spectacular riot of colors. From the dramatic red cliffs of Zion Canyon to the vivid green waters of the Emerald Pools, visual spectacles abound. Utah’s first national park covers 229 square miles (590 sq km). It’s a vast expanse of pine-clad mountains, bubbling rivers, arid desert land, and lush forests and woodlands.
Upwards of 4 million visitors come here each year to hike the scenic trails, wade in the Virgin River, and explore the Kolob Canyons. The park’s peak tourist season runs from early February through late November. So, it’s best to plan ahead if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the USA.
Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC
32
The Lincoln Memorial, dedicated in 1922, honors the 16th President of the USA. This stunning building, which resembles a Greek Doric temple, is a creation of architect Henry Bacon. Millions of people come every year to this landmark on the western end of the National Mall in the nation’s capital.
Inside, a 19-foot (5.8-m) marble statue of Abraham Lincoln by sculptor Daniel Chester French sits in calm splendor. Around him, the walls are adorned with murals and timeless quotes from his memorable speeches. Also, it’s worth noting that the Lincoln Memorial has played major roles in the American civil rights movement. For instance, it was here where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have A Dream” speech in 1963.
Smithsonian National Air And Space Museum, Washington DC
31
Join countless other fans of air and space travel at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC. From the earliest days of flight to explorations beyond Earth, the museum has it all. That makes it one of the top tourist destinations in the USA. You can see the original 1903 Wright Flyer plane, astronaut Neil Armstrong’s Apollo 11 spacesuit, and many more. The museum also presents hands-on experience including interactive exhibitions.
Meanwhile, kids can learn from and enjoy science demonstrations and story-telling sessions. And if you visit at night, you can star-gaze like a boss via a high-powered telescope. The museum is the National Mall’s flagship building and is a short walk from the Hilton Washington DC National Mall Hotel.
Yellowstone National Park
30
The awe-inspiring Yellowstone National Park spans almost 3,500 square miles (9,065 sq km) in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It’s among the USA‘s most popular tourist destinations. In 2018 alone, it saw over 4 million visitors. The Old Faithful cone geyser is without a doubt among the park’s superstars. Erupting every 35–120 minutes, it’s Yellowstone’s biggest regular geyser.
The park’s landscape is a breathtaking cornucopia of rivers, forests, canyons, and springs. The wildlife is just as diverse, with hundreds of animal species. Planning on visiting in winter? Then book a room at Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins. It’s one of the few Yellowstone hotels that stay open in wintertime. It’s also a mere 7-minute walk from its namesake geyser.
Metropolitan Museum Of Art, NYC
29
The country’s largest museum is also one of the most popular attractions in the USA for tourists. Established in 1870, “The Met” today occupies 3 locations in NYC: Fifth Avenue, Fort Tryon Park, and Madison Avenue. Its permanent collection is an artistic treasure trove of more than 2 million works. From ancient Egyptian mummies to medieval armor to 20th-century Cubist paintings, there’s something here for every art lover. Masters featured at The Met include Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Emanuel Leutze.
And if you love architecture, you’ll probably appreciate the main building on Fifth Avenue, a stately neoclassical-style structure. It’s a work of art all on its own. Want to explore it without the crowds? Then join the NYC EmptyMet Tour and enjoy the museum’s collections with all the elbow room you could ever want.
Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles
28
Universal Studios Hollywood traces its roots to 1915 with tours of the movie company’s studio. Today, it’s a mammoth theme park that gets millions of fun-seekers yearly. It lies within the 415-acre (1.7 sq km) Universal City in Los Angeles County’s San Fernando Valley region. Nearby, the Universal CityWalk offers dining and shopping. Meanwhile, the Sheraton Universal Hotel is a luxe place to stay the night.
Many of the park’s attractions feature themes from Universal Studios’ movie and TV properties. For instance, there’s the Flight of the Hippogriff roller coaster (inspired by the Harry Potter films). Likewise, the Jurassic World water adventure ride and The Simpsons motion simulator ride are also crowd-pleasers.
Navy Pier, Chicago
27
Set beside Lake Michigan, Navy Pier opened in 1916 and acted as a military training center during World War II. Today, besides being one of Chicago‘s most popular landmarks, it’s also among the top tourist destinations in the USA.
In addition to the pier itself, the Navy Pier complex is home to a wealth of family-friendly attractions. These include the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, and the Crystal Botanical Garden. Moreover, there are rides aplenty such as the high-tech Ferris Wheel and the Musical Carousel. You can also enjoy the pier’s outdoor art installations, as well as fireworks in the summer and fall.
Hollywood Walk Of Fame, Los Angeles
26
When we say Hollywood is star-studded, we mean that in a literal sense. At the Hollywood Walk of Fame alone, for instance, you’ll find more than 2,500 stars. They honor famous showbiz personalities including actors, musicians, directors, and producers. There are even a few fictional characters with their own stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Director Stanley Kramer had the honor of having the first permanent star (in 1960). Actress Joan Woodward, on the other hand, was the first person to take a picture with her star.
The five-pointed stars, made from brass and terrazzo, line the pavements of Hollywood Boulevard and Pine Street in central Los Angeles. Visited by roughly 10 million people each year, they’re surely among the top attractions in the USA for tourists.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
25
Carved by the Colorado River’s flow over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder. It’s among Arizona’s tourist draws, and indeed, one of the top tourist destinations in the USA. Minerals in the rock layers give the canyon walls their vivid hues, from bright reds to delicate pinks and greens. For many people, the Grand Canyon is best seen from above, and this is one of the reasons why helicopter tours are so popular. There’s no denying that viewing rock formations like the Tower of Ra and the Dragon Corridor from the sky is quite an experience.
Another experience worth having is a visit to the Native American reservations in the Grand Canyon area. Aside from learning about their culture and ways of life, you’ll also get to see some beautiful spots. The Havasupai reservation, for instance, is home to gorgeous spring-fed waterfalls.
Pike Place Market, Seattle
24
The sprawling Pike Place Market is a Seattle landmark and a top tourist destination in the USA. It’s in the central business district, right by Elliott Bay. Opened in 1907, it’s also among the country’s oldest continuously-operating farmers’ markets.
Roughly 10 million people visit Pike’s Place every year to shop, eat, and just to people-watch. There are hundreds of shops hawking everything from fresh produce to vintage comic books to hand-blown glass. Good eating is likewise plentiful with the market’s wide selection of food stalls and open-air cafes and restaurants. And when the stalls close for the day, you can enjoy a drink or two at the market’s bars. Some of them stay open until way past midnight.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
23
One of the world’s most recognized landmarks is also one of the top tourist destinations in the United States. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge is an American icon. When it opened to traffic in 1937, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. It also connected the city peninsula to leafy Marin County.
Nowadays, the Golden Gate Bridge receives millions of visitors every year. Many of them come to take pictures of its elegant profile from the viewing deck at the bridge’s northern end. If you’re a shutterbug, consider visiting in September or October. This is the best time to take pictures because it’s usually fog-free and the weather is pleasant.
Universal Orlando
22
Spanning more than 541 acres (219 hectares), Universal Orlando offers tons of fun for young and old visitors alike. It launched in 1990 as the Universal Studios Florida theme park. Later, the resort expanded with the addition of the Islands of Adventure theme park and the Volcano Bay aquapark. Meanwhile, plans are underway for an additional theme park called Epic Universe. Universal Orlando’s rides and attractions are inspired by famous movies, television shows, and music productions. These include the Shrek 4-D theater experience, the Transformers 3-D ride, and the Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure roller coaster.
For shopping and dining, the stores, cafes, and restaurants of Universal CityWalk offer plenty of choices. And at the end of the day, you needn’t go far for a place to crash. Plenty of accommodation options, such as the Hard Rock Hotel, are within the complex.
Venice Beach, Los Angeles
21
For an out-there seaside escapade, it’s tough to beat L.A.’s Venice Beach, a top tourist attraction in the USA. Sure, it’s the perfect place to swim and work on your tan, but there are plenty of other things to do here too. At the Venice Ocean Front Walk, or the Boardwalk, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and specialty shops. Fortunetellers, mimes, and street musicians also hang out here, and they’re a great source of entertainment.
The Venice Breakwater is popular with surfers while the fishing pier in the south draws anglers of all stripes. At the Venice Beach Recreation Center, you’ll find play areas for children and sundry sports facilities. Nearby, the Venice Canal Historic District pays homage to the famous city in Italy.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
20
In 1934, residents of North Carolina and Tennessee came together to give their land to the U.S. government. In return, they asked for national park protection. As a result, the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park was created. Nowadays, more than 11 million nature lovers visit the park yearly, making it one of the top attractions in the USA for tourists.
The park covers half a million acres or more than 200,000 hectares. It’s home to many trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, and draws hikers of all fitness levels. Fishing is likewise popular, with anglers flocking to spots such as Fontana Lake. And if you’re a bird-watcher, bring your binoculars to better see some of the park’s 200 avian species. Make your holiday perfect by staying only at one of the 11 Best Hotels in Gatlinburg. Traveling with pets? Some of the top pet friendly hotels in Gatlinburg, Tenessee are within a driving distance from here.
San Antonio River Walk
19
The old and the new combine in seamless harmony at the San Antonio River Walk in Texas. Tucked discreetly below street level, it’s a network of pedestrian pathways stretching for 15 miles (24 km) beside the river. Near its southern end are the city’s Spanish colonial mission, including the historic fortress known as The Alamo. The River Walk is also home to the San Antonio Museum of Art and the open-air Arneson River Theater.
Outdoor cafes, lively bars, and world-class restaurants are all along the River Walk. Luxury hotels such as the Westin Riverwalk San Antonio can be found here too. If you come in late January or early February, you can catch the annual Parade of Lanterns. During this 2-week event, colorful floats drift on the San Antonio River to herald the Chinese New Year.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
18
This waterfront attraction in San Francisco traces its history back to the Gold Rush. Today, it’s a lively shopping and entertainment hotspot that’s brimming with food stalls and restaurants, shops, and museums. There’s no shortage of seafood here, and many eateries offer scenic views of San Francisco Bay. Plus, the ever-present street performers give a carnival-like atmosphere throughout the area.
The large sea lion population at Pier 39 is among the things that make Fisherman’s Wharf a top tourist destination in the USA. Historic Ghirardelli Square and the Wax Museum are similarly popular attractions. And if you head to Pier 45, you’ll see the museum ships USS Pampanito and SS Jeremiah O’Brien.
Horseshoe Bend, Arizona
17
The Colorado River’s U-shaped meander gave rise to the name Horseshoe Bend, a stunning natural attraction in Arizona. It lies within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, close to the city of Page. Here, the rock walls and the overlook contain minerals such as garnet and hematite, the source of their rich colors.
Horseshoe Bend is photogenic no matter the time of day, so don’t forget to bring your camera. Also, remember to wear a comfy pair of shoes since some areas are steep or have deep sand. But if hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can also marvel at this top US tourist attraction via the Colorado River Smooth Water Float Trip.
Balboa Park, San Diego
16
Just a few minutes from downtown San Diego, Balboa Park is part and parcel of the city’s history and culture. Dating from the 19th century, it’s a National Historic Landmark. Balboa Park spans 1,200 acres (490 hectares) and contains many of the city’s most popular landmarks.
More than a dozen museums are within the park’s premises. These include the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego History Center. It’s also home to peaceful, plant-filled spaces such as the Veterans Memorial Garden and the Desert Garden. Furthermore, you’ll find family-friendly attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and the Balboa Park Carousel. These and more have cemented the park’s reputation as a top tourist destination in the USA.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston
15
When it comes to historic shopping destinations, it’s hard to beat Boston’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace. It’s composed of four old buildings: Faneuil Hall, which dates from 1743, and the 19th-century North Market, South Market, and Quincy Market. During 2016, the marketplace received 18 million visitors, making it one of the top attractions in the USA for tourists.
The complex is home to various shops where you can buy everything from kitschy souvenirs to hand-crafted jewelry by New England artisans. Furthermore, keeping thirst and hunger at bay is easy at one of the many kiosks and restaurants here. And for entertainment, there are street performers, musicians, and even magicians aplenty.
French Quarter, New Orleans
14
New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood came into being as the Vieux Carré or “Old Square” shortly after the city’s founding in 1718. The French Quarter hasn’t lost any of its popularity since then. In fact, it’s grown to become one of the top attractions in the USA for tourists. There’s always something going on here, from lively parties in the gay bars on Bourbon Street to energetic street music at Jackson Square. And of course, the fun and excitement crank all the way up during the annual Mardi Gras festival.
The French Quarter is a National Historic Landmark. It’s where you’ll find the city’s oldest building, the Old Ursuline Convent, which dates from 1732. Antoine’s, the oldest restaurant in town, is also in the French Quarter. Historic accommodation? The French Quarter has them in spades. For instance, the elegant Hotel Monteleone on Royal Street has been operating since 1886.
Disneyland Park, Anaheim
13
Called “The Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland Park in Anaheim has been entertaining people since 1955. It’s also the world’s oldest Disney theme park and the only one completed in founder Walt Disney’s lifetime. Today, it’s composed of several themed “lands,” each with its own popular attractions. For instance, Tomorrowland has the Space Mountain roller coaster while Fantasyland is home to the Peter Pan’s Flight dark ride. And of course, nobody can miss the whimsical, magical Sleeping Beauty’s Castle.
A walk through the park will yield encounters with famous Disney characters, who are only too happy to pose for pictures. Parades are held on a regular basis, as are fireworks shows. Disneyland is among the most popular places to visit in the USA, and the queues can get really long. To skip the line, we recommend booking admission tickets in advance.
Lake Tahoe
12
One of America’s favorite natural playgrounds, Lake Tahoe lies on the border between California and Nevada. It’s in the Sierra Nevada mountain range and ranks as the biggest mountain lake in North America. And at roughly 2 million years old, it’s among the world’s most ancient lakes. Lake Tahoe’s vivid blue water is so clean and pure that it’s been named the country’s best-tasting drinking water.
This beautiful freshwater lake is a star for all seasons. In the summertime, there are plenty of watersports to enjoy. Visiting in winter is just as enjoyable because of great opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway, tranquil Tahoe North should be your choice. But, if wild nights are your thing, then you’ll love the trendy bars and clubs of Tahoe South.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
11
Swirled sandstone walls, sand-falls, and beams of sunlight combine at Antelope Canyon. This stunning slot canyon lies east of Page in Arizona, an amazing sculpture by Mother Nature herself. It’s located in the reservation of the Navajo Nation’s LeChee Chapter. In fact, its Navajo name translates to “the place where water runs through rocks.” This is an apt moniker because the canyon is the result of eons of water erosion.
The Upper Antelope Canyon draws the highest number of visitors since it’s at ground level, thus requiring no climbing. The Lower Antelope Canyon, though posing a more difficult hike, is a popular place for photographers. Antelope Canyon is among the top attractions in the USA for tourists. But before you go, keep in mind that you can only enter via a guided tour by an authorized operator.
Grand Central Terminal, NYC
10
New York City’s Grand Central Terminal is no ordinary train station. It’s a remarkable tourist destination all on its own. In fact, it received almost 22 million visitors in 2013, and that figure doesn’t include subway and train passengers. This magnificent landmark in Midtown Manhattan opened to much fanfare in 1913. Today, its beautiful Beaux-Arts design continues to awe people from near and far.
Inside, you’ll see fantastic works of art. For instance, a gold leaf painting of the constellations adorns the Main Concourse’s ceiling. Below it is the iconic opal clock, a 20-million-dollar treasure. Another of the famous attractions in the USA for tourists is the Grand Central Market, where fresh produce and gourmet treats abound. And if time allows, explore the New York Transit Museum Gallery and Annex to see railroad exhibits.
Hunts Mesa (Monument Valley), Arizona
9
Hunts Mesa stands with the best of them when it comes to incredible rock formations in Arizona. Located in the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, it features many huge, breathtaking natural arches. The Eye of the Dove double-cave arch, the Vreeland alcove arch, and the Swinnerton pothole arch are in the canyons on the mesa’s southern edge.
Hunts Mesa also provides the perfect vantage point for panoramic views of the area’s sandstone formations. So it isn’t any surprise that the mesa is a favorite spot among photographers. But, remember that you’ll need a Navajo guide to hike to the mesa. Does the thought of taking spectacular photos at sunset and sunrise sound appealing? Then you’d love the Hunts Mesa Overnight Campout. A local guide will bring you to the best photo-taking spots, set up camp, and prepare dinner for you too.
Millennium Park, Chicago
8
Located smack-dab in downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is an almost peerless urban playground. It’s not just the city’s top attraction, it’s also one of the top attractions in the USA for tourists. The park occupies over 24 acres (99,000 sq km) of land close to the shoreline of Lake Michigan and offers plenty for visitors of all ages.
First, take a selfie by the huge Cloud Gate, also called “The Bean” at the park entrance. Next, marvel at the Boeing Galleries’ outdoor sculptures or the Art Institute of Chicago’s modern art collection. Grab a bite at any of the park’s dining venues, then take a moment to relax in the tranquil Lurie Garden. Or, if you’re in town during the winter, you can burn off the calories at the McCormick Tribune Plaza & Ice Rink.
Central Park, NYC
7
If Times Square is the heart of New York City, then Central Park is its lungs. Opened in 1876, it’s an 840-acre (340 hectares) oasis of green in the middle of Manhattan. The park is home to more than 4 million plants. As well, it boasts a healthy wildlife population.
There’s no shortage of things to do here. You can take romantic walks on its gentle slopes, read a book in a shady glen, or watch the swans in the lakes. For a bit of action, head to the sports facilities on the Great Lawn. Similarly, the Wollman Rink is a good place to keep active. The puppet shows at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre are popular with kids. On the other hand, theater buffs will enjoy plays at the open-air Delacorte Theater in the summer. And for animal lovers, the Central Park Zoo is a must-visit.
Niagara Falls
6
The USA and Canada share the amazing natural wonder that is the Niagara Falls. Located on the border between New York State and Ontario in Canada, it’s made up of 3 waterfalls. Horseshoe Falls is the largest and lies on the border. Meanwhile, the smaller Bridal Veil Falls and American Falls are in the USA.
About 30 million people a year visit Niagara Falls, making it one of the top attractions in the USA for tourists. Summer is a popular time to visit. However, be prepared for hordes of tourists and muggy weather. In contrast, it might be a bit rainy in the fall. But, it’s the best time to go if you’d prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. And if you’d like to get a closer look at the waterfalls aboard a boat, try this small-group sightseeing tour of Niagara Falls.
Union Station, Washington DC
5
For millions of people, Washington DC’s Union Station isn’t part of the journey; it’s the destination. Opened in 1907, the station is among the world’s largest train stations. In addition, it’s one of the very popular attractions in the USA for tourists. People come here from near and far because of all that it has to offer.
Besides being a transportation hub, Union Station is also a historic attraction. In fact, it’s on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. The building is a blend of Classical and Beaux-Arts architectural styles. Inside, the Main Hall impresses with its ceiling gilded in 23-karat gold. These days, leisure travelers will find plenty to do at the station. Shopping options are plentiful, with stores selling everything from fast fashion to electronics. Likewise, there’s a host of restaurants in the station to suit almost every taste.
Mall Of America, Bloomington
4
Mall of America, in Bloomington, Minnesota, was once the biggest shopping mall in the USA. At the time it ranked as one of the main attractions in the USA for tourists. It was displaced by American Dream Meadowlands in New Jersey, another property of Mall of America’s owner. Nevertheless, it remains among the top tourist destinations in the United States.
There are over 500 stores and restaurants spread over the mall’s 3 levels. You’ll find plenty of attractions here too. For instance, the Nickelodeon Universe amusement park is on the first level. Nearby, the state’s biggest aquarium, Sea Life, features thousands of sea animals. Meanwhile, the Lego Imagination Center is the mall’s longest-standing attraction. It’s also worth noting that the JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America Hotel is attached to the mall. Hence, finding a place to crash after a day of shopping couldn’t be easier. And did we mention that it houses one of the best hotel pools in Minneapolis?
Las Vegas Strip
3
The Strip isn’t technically in the city of Las Vegas. As a matter of fact, this 4.2-mile (6.8 km) stretch of South Las Vegas Boulevard lies in the towns of Winchester and Paradise. Even so, visiting it is the quintessential Las Vegas experience. And while gambling in glittering casinos is the main draw here, there’s a host of other things to see and do too.
You can climb the Eiffel Tower replica for 360-degree views of the city or see wildlife at the Flamingo Hotel. Nearby, the Bellagio Hotel’s dancing fountains and botanical gardens are popular attractions. Kids in tow? Then take them to the Adventuredome indoor theme park or to one of the amazing acrobatic shows by Cirque du Soleil.
Times Square, NYC
2
What was once the site for a horse exchange is today a buzzing crossroads in the city that never sleeps. Named after the former headquarters of the New York Times, Times Square is the Big Apple’s beating heart. Also, with an annual visitor count of 50 million, it’s one of the top tourist destinations in the USA. In addition, about a million people gather here for the traditional New Year’s Eve ball drop. That makes it one of the top annual attractions in the USA for tourists.
Times Square is more than just the bright lights, larger-than-life billboards, and gigantic screens. This area in Midtown Manhattan is also the heart of the Broadway Theater District. Moreover, it’s a commercial hub that’s filled with high-rises and hotels. One example is the Sheraton New York, one of the city’s tallest hotels.
Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando
1
Fifty-two million people make their way yearly to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Small wonder, then, that it’s one of the top attractions in the USA for tourists. It opened in 1971 with just the Magic Kingdom theme park. Later, it grew by adding more theme parks. First, it launched Epcot 1982. Hollywood Studios followed in 1989. Finally, the Animal Kingdom theme park debuted in 1998.
Familiar Disney characters and films are the themes of rides and attractions. For example, Epcot has a Finding Nemo-themed aquarium while the Animal Kingdom has The Lion King shows. Meanwhile, at Hollywood Studios, the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge attraction makes you feel like you’re in a galaxy far, far away. Also popular are the water parks, golf courses, and the Disney Springs shopping village.
Within the park are 28 Disney-owned and operated hotels and resorts. But there’s non-Disney accommodation too. One notable example is the Four Seasons Resort Orlando.