1

Denali

Image: Barth Bailey

We’ll start with what many believe to be Alaska’s crown jewel. Formerly known as Mount McKinley, Denali is the highest peak in North America, with a summit elevation of 20,310 feet above sea level. Its height is matched only by its magnificence—a snow-covered wonder adorning the Alaskan skyline.

The name "Denali" comes from the Koyukon Athabaskans, who are native to the region. They referred to the mountain as Dinale or Denali, which is believed to be a Koyukon word meaning "high" or "tall." Over the years, many mountaineers have attempted to reach the peak, with the first successful ascent dating back to 1913.

2

Chugach State Park

Image: Paxson Woelber

East of the city of Anchorage lies Chugach State Park , a 495,204-acre state park that houses the stunning Chugach Mountains. However, this park is more than just a scenic landscape; it plays a crucial role in ensuring that the residents of Anchorage have access to safe drinking water.

Chugach State Park is also home to Eklutna Lake, which offers numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, camping, and hiking. The park supports a diverse array of wildlife, including moose and bears.

3

Kayak Island

Image: Ty Fiero

In 1826, Lt. Sarychev of the Russian Navy noticed the peculiar shape of a certain island located in the Gulf of Alaska. Because it resembled a specific type of boat, Sarychev named the island Kayak Island , unaware that he was christening one of Alaska’s most stunning destinations.

Kayak Island is considered historically significant since it was the first place where a non-native set foot in Alaska. Notably, the island was visited by the famed explorer Captain James Cook in 1778. During this visit, Captain Cook left an empty bottle at the base of a prominent tree. Inside the bottle was a message and two pieces of silver gifted to him by the English crown.

4

Kodiak Island

Image: Brent Jones

Next, we have Kodiak Island , the second-largest island in the United States. Over two-thirds of the island is occupied by the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, which protects a diverse range of wildlife, including the Kodiak bear, Roosevelt elk, and Sitka black-tailed deer.

While no entry is allowed to the refuge, the island still has plenty to offer visitors. For example, you can experience the island’s beauty at the Buskin River State Recreation Site, which features camping, fishing, and scenic beaches.

5

Kenai Fjords National Park

Image: Kedar Gadge

Fjords are a truly unique natural wonder that can only be found in a few places in the world, and Alaska is home to one of the most beautiful of its kind. Located on the Kenai Peninsula, west of the town of Seward, Kenai Fjords National Park is a breathtaking expanse of glaciers, islands, and wildlife.

With a total area of 669,984 acres, Kenai Fjords is relatively small—approximately 90% the size of Yosemite. Regardless, of what this park lacks in size, it more than makes up for in accessibility, diversity, and, above all, natural beauty. It is home to the Harding Icefield, one of the largest ice fields in the United States, as well as an impressive variety of wildlife, including black bears, sea otters, and killer whales.

6

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve

Image: Grace Simoneau

As the largest American state by landmass, it seems only fitting that Alaska is home to the largest national park in the United States. Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve encompasses the Wrangell Mountains and a significant portion of the Saint Elias Mountains, including Mount Saint Elias, the second-highest peak in both the United States and Canada.

Besides many species of animals like the grizzly bear and the timber wolf, this park is home to Mount Wrangell and Mount Churchill—two of the largest volcanoes in the region. Not only that, the abandoned buildings of a former copper mining operation within the park have been designated a National Historic Landmark district.

7

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve

Image: Joseph Corl

Don’t be surprised by the number of stunning glaciers that made it onto this list—after all, these natural wonders are Alaska’s pride and joy. With that in mind, here’s the first entry in our selection of beautiful glaciers you should definitely visit: Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.

The park houses 7 glaciers in the park, out of which the Margerie Glacier is probably the most famous. This iconic glacier attracts thousands of tourists each year, with nearly 80% arriving via cruise ships. Not only that, the park also offers several other outdoor activities like kayaking, camping, fishing, and bird-watching.

8

Hubbard Glacier

Image: Mick Kirchman

Located within the previously mentioned Wrangell–St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Hubbard Glacier undoubtedly deserves its own spotlight. This stunning glacier can be found right on the border between Alaska and Canada, with part of it extending into Kluane National Park and Reserve in Yukon.

Hubbard Glacier is primarily visited by tour and cruise ships since it can’t be reached by land. Regardless, experiencing the beauty of this natural wonder requires nothing more than gazing upon its majestic presence.

9

Worthington Glacier

Image: Grace Simoneau

Worthington Glacier holds the distinction of being one of the few US glaciers that can be easily accessed via a paved highway. Located approximately 30 miles east of the city of Valdez, this glacier is truly a sight to behold.

Covering 5,774 acres, this breathtaking glacier was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1968. If you’re planning a visit, consider stopping at the Worthington Glacier State Recreation Site, a comfortable state roadside park that offers a stunning view of the glacier.

1

Gilroy Garlic Festival - Gilroy, California

Image: Mitch Hodiondo

This July festival has been going strong since 1979, serving up everything from garlic fries to garlic-infused desserts that'll make you question everything you thought you knew about sweetness. The festival draws over 80,000 garlic enthusiasts who aren't afraid of a little breath situation.

Beyond the obvious eating opportunities, you'll find cook-offs, live entertainment, and enough garlic braids to decorate every kitchen in America. The Miss Gilroy Garlic Festival Queen pageant is a real thing, and yes, contestants probably smell amazing.

2

Maine Lobster Festival - Rockland, Maine

Image: Michelle Tsang

Every August, this coastal town transforms into lobster paradise, where over 20,000 pounds of the crustaceans meet their delicious destiny in a five-day celebration of all things clawed and buttery. The festival serves lobster every way imaginable: boiled, in rolls, and in bisque.

Between lobster courses, you can watch the Maine Sea Goddess Coronation, browse hundreds of arts and crafts vendors, or catch big-name musical acts on the harbor stage. The parade is a charming small-town affair that reminds you why these festivals beat fancy restaurants every time.

3

National Cherry Festival - Traverse City, Michigan

Image: Reza Yaghoobian

Michigan's cherry country goes absolutely bonkers every July with eight days of cherry-flavored everything in one of the prettiest settings you'll ever see. We're talking cherry pie-eating contests, cherry pancake breakfasts, cherry salsa, and enough cherry wine to make you wonder why you ever drank grape-based beverages.

The festival isn't just about cherries: there are air shows, parades, live concerts, and a sand sculpture contest that'll make you feel inadequate about your beach castle skills. You can even participate in the Very Cherry 5K if you want to pretend you're being healthy before eating your weight in cherry pie.

4

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience - New Orleans, Louisiana

Image: Yuri Krupenin

Every May, this city throws a five-day celebration that combines world-class wine with Creole and Cajun cuisine. This is a sophisticated affair with celebrity chef dinners, wine seminars, and events in stunning French Quarter locations that make you feel fancy even with hot sauce on your shirt.

The Royal Street Stroll is the main event, where you can sample dishes from over 50 restaurants while sipping wine and listening to jazz, because New Orleans doesn't do anything halfway. This festival showcases why New Orleans is considered one of America's greatest food cities.

5

Taste of Chicago - Chicago, Illinois

Image: Stéfano Girardelli

The Windy City hosts one of the world's largest food festivals every July, transforming Grant Park into a massive outdoor dining room where deep-dish pizza competes with Italian beef sandwiches for your affection. Since 1980, this free-admission festival has been drawing millions of visitors who want to sample Chicago's legendary food scene without the hassle of restaurant reservations.

With over 300 menu items from dozens of local restaurant s, you can eat your way through Chicago's diverse neighborhoods without leaving the park. There are cooking demonstrations from celebrity chefs, live music on multiple stages, and enough food vendors to ensure you'll need a nap by 2 PM.

6

Hatch Chile Festival - Hatch, New Mexico

Image: L'Odyssée Belle

Every Labor Day weekend, this tiny town of 1,600 people swells to over 30,000 as chile pepper fanatics make their annual pilgrimage to the "Chile Capital of the World." The Hatch chile is famous for its unique flavor—earthy, smoky, and just spicy enough to make things interesting without requiring a fire extinguisher. You'll find them roasted, stuffed, turned into salsa, baked into bread , and mixed into ice cream for the adventurous.

The festival is wonderfully unpretentious, with a parade featuring the Chile Queen, live music, arts and crafts, and the kind of small-town charm that makes you want to move to New Mexico. Watching massive roasters tumble thousands of fresh chiles while their aroma fills the air is oddly mesmerizing.

7

Pebble Beach Food & Wine - Pebble Beach, California

Image: Phakphoom Srinorajan

This April event on the stunning Monterey Peninsula is where celebrity chefs, renowned winemakers, and beautiful people gather to celebrate the finer things in life. Set against the backdrop of Pebble Beach's legendary golf courses and dramatic coastline, this is food festival luxury at its finest, with Grand Tasting pavilions, intimate chef dinners, and wine seminars.

You might spot a celebrity chef or two wandering around, and the event attracts serious food lovers willing to splurge for unforgettable culinary experiences. From fresh seafood to innovative cuisine that looks too pretty to eat, this festival proves that California knows how to combine stunning scenery with exceptional food.

8

Vermont Cheesemakers Festival - Shelburne, Vermont

Image: Luba Glazunova

Every August, cheese lovers gather at Shelburne Farms, a stunning 1,400-acre estate overlooking Lake Champlain, for what might be the most civilized food festival in America. We're talking award-winning artisan cheeses from over 40 local cheesemakers, paired with local beers, ciders, and wines in a setting so picturesque you'll think you've wandered onto a movie set.

The festival celebrates Vermont's thriving cheese culture with tastings, demonstrations, and plenty of opportunities to chat with the actual cheesemakers who'll explain why their cheddar is superior to everyone else's (they're all correct, somehow). Live music, children's activities, and farm tours round out the experience, making it perfect for the whole family.

9

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival - Orlando, Florida

Image: Paul Lievens

Disney World's Epcot park transforms every fall into a global food court, with over 30 international marketplaces serving small plates from around the world. Running from late August through November, this is the longest food festival on our list, giving you plenty of chances to "drink around the world" while pretending you're culturally enriching yourself. From French wine to German beer to Canadian pretzel bread, you can passport-stamp your palate without airport security.

Sure, it's touristy, but it's also surprisingly delicious and incredibly convenient—where else can you eat in Morocco, drink in Italy, and catch fireworks over a lagoon all in one afternoon? Celebrity chef demonstrations, beverage seminars, and live concerts (included with park admission) make this festival a surprising value despite Disney's reputation for expensive hot dogs.

10

Boudin, Bourbon & Beer Festival - New Iberia, Louisiana

Image: Hybrid Storytellers

In October festival celebrates the holy trinity of Louisiana living: boudin sausage, bourbon, and beer. Held in the charming downtown district, this relatively new festival has quickly become a favorite for anyone who wants to experience authentic Cajun culture .

Local restaurants compete for the best boudin recipe while musicians play zydeco and Cajun music that'll have you dancing whether you know how or not. The bourbon and beer selections showcase both Louisiana craft beverages and national favorites, creating pairing opportunities you never knew you needed.

1

The Stanley Hotel - Estes Park, Colorado

Image: Fern M. Lomibao

The majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado, surrounded by towering peaks and crisp mountain air already set a specific scenario, don’t they? Now, in that already eerie landscape emerges The Stanley Hotel . If the name doesn’t ring a bell already, you can probably recognize it as the one in the novel-based movie "The Shining." But let us tell you, the real-life tales of this place are even more hair-raising than anything King could dream up.

Built by F.O. Stanley, a man with a penchant for the paranormal, the Stanley Hotel is dripping with history and intrigue.

Only a few steps inside it and you’ll feel it, an otherworldly vibe that sends shivers down your spine . Some say it’s the owner’s ghost lingering around. Others swear they’ve encountered apparitions wandering the corridors, lost souls searching for peace. Whatever it is, only the boldest souls will dare to find out, are you one of those?

2

Eastern State Penitentiary - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Image: Lance Anderson

Philadelphia is full of spots that witnessed the history of the country’s Independence. Amidst the cobblestone alleyways and colonial charm lies a place shrouded in darkness: Eastern State Penitentiary.

Once hailed as a revolutionary institution for its innovative approach to incineration, the Eastern State now stands as a crumbling relic of the past. But don’t let its dilapidated facade fool you, this place is teeming with ghostly energy.

Step through the iron gates, and you’ll feel it immediately, a sense of unease you can’t just shake. They say the spirits of former inmates still haunt these crumbling halls , trapped between this world and the next.

Eastern State Penitentiary is a playground for the paranormal enthusiast. But beware, for not all who enter emerge unscathed. Are you brave enough to confront the ghosts of the Eastern State? Yours is the choice!

3

The Myrtles Plantation - St. Francisville, Louisiana

Image: David Hertle

In the heart of the south, you will find sprawling plantations and moss-draped oak trees. It is a picture-perfect scene straight out of a Southern Gothic novel. But, within the beauty lies a dark secret: The Myrtles Plantation.

At plain sight, this place seems like something out of a fairytale , it has stately columns and picturesque gardens. But that is not all, this place has a sinister side as well and the feeling you are not alone is always there.

But perhaps the most chilling part of all is the infamous "mirror room," where the spirits of the dead are said to be trapped for all eternity . If you are craving a taste of Southern hospitality with a side of spine-tingling thrills, the Myrtles Plantation awaits.

4

The Queen Mary - Long Beach, California

Image: Bradley Pisney

The history behind RMS Queen Mary takes different turns, from luxurious to creepy in just one lifetime. Initially, this ship served in the war, and it later transitioned to its opulent role, welcoming esteemed passengers across the vast seas. This first part of its story is not free of tragedy and mystery. For example, one incident involves a sailor who met his end crushed by a door in the engine room , while others recount the loss of children in the ship’s pool.

As of 1967, the Queen Mary belongs to Long Beach which acquired it and transformed it into a hotel that continues to charm guests to this da y. Yet, along with its hospitality, the ship harbors whispers of spectral inhabitants, ghostly remnants of its tumultuous past.

However, they have used it to its favor since the ship offers a visit and guided tours to explore the place around, ghosts and everything!

5

Alcatraz Island - San Francisco, California

Image: Rodrigo Soares

The San Francisco Bay, the iconic Golden Bridge, PIER 39, San Francisco is filled with marvelous places to visit . Just as marvelous is the fact that one of the scariest spots, not to mention haunted, is located there as well. Just the name is creepy enough, don’t you think so?

Alcatraz was once the prison where America’s most notorious criminals were sent. And, today, it is home to a thousand ghostly anecdotes. According to them, Alcatraz is haunted by the ghosts of its former inmates, who weren’t necessarily meek as lambs!

The curious thing is that it’s not just the prisoners who refuse to leave, or at least that’s what one can assume. Visitors and park rangers alike have reported eerie encounters with unexplained phenomena, especially inexplicable sounds echoing through the empty corridors.

6

The Whaley House - San Diego, California

Image: Phil Hearing

In 1857, against the backdrop of San Diego’s burgeoning landscape, Thomas Whaley built up his family house on the historic ground of the city’s original public gallows. Now, legend has it that as soon as they settled into their new abode, Whaley began to experience mysterious phenomena , to say the least. He reported hearing the echoing footsteps of "Yankee" Jim Robinson, a notorious drifter, who met his end at the very site four years prior to the construction of the house.

However, the haunting tales did not cease with Robinson’s spectral presence. Tragedy seemed to shadow the Whaley family, with a series of untimely deaths and suicides befalling several members of the family inside the house. To this day, whispers persist of apparitions roaming the halls, often accompanied by the unmistakable scent of cigar smoke and heavy perfume.

7

San Fernando Cathedral - San Antonio, Texas

Image: Priscilla Fraire

San Fernando Cathedral stands as the oldest church in the state, it hosts the unique El Mariachi Mass every Sunday. Its Gothic Revival architecture is a sight to behold. However, as darkness falls, the atmosphere around it takes on a creepy aura and only the bravest souls are willing to venture onto its myth-laden grounds.

In 1936, during structural renovations, construction workers made a chilling discovery near the altar: bones, nails, and tattered military uniforms, believed by some to have belonged to three soldiers of the Alamo.

Since the unsettling event, reports of shadowy futures and orbs appearing in photographs have circulated among visitors, along with sightings of ghosts within the church itself. Among these spectral sightings are accounts of mysterious men dressed in black and hooded figures reminiscent of monks, adding to the cathedral’s mystique.

8

Sheffield Island Lighthouse - Norwalk, Connecticut

Image: Randy Laybourne

This lighthouse was erected in 1868 and it served as a beacon for ships navigating the waters to reach Sheffield Island , a mere 45-minute ferry journey from South Norwalk. This historic landmark harbors a somber history.

In 1972, tragedy struck when the lighthouse’s original keeper passed away under mysterious circumstances while scanning the horizon with a spyglass, his demise shrouded in unanswered questions. Nearly two decades later, in 1991, an archaeologist conducting preservation work on the site uncovered unsettling occurrences. Eerie melodies, distant pleas for assistance, and the unmistakable sound of a foghorn.

Legend has it these phenomena are attributed to the relentless spirit of Captain Robert Sheffield, the enigmatic figure who acquired the islands in the early 1800s and reputedly possessed a penchant for peculiar musical instruments, adding an aura of mystique to this maritime marvel.

9

Winchester Mystery House - San Jose, California

Image: Kelly Zhang

The Winchester Mystery House stands as a testament to Sarah Winchester's unique response to tragedy. After losing her husband and child, Sarah was convinced by a seer that her family's demise was orchestrated by vengeful spirits seeking retribution for deaths caused by Winchester rifles.

Intending to keep these spirits at bay, she embarked on an elaborate construction project that resulted in the eerie mansion known today . Among its unsettling features are staircases leading to nowhere, doors opening onto solid walls, and windows revealing hidden passages, all perpetuating the house's mystique and intrigue.

Exploring this enigmatic abode offers a glimpse into Sarah Winchester's profound grief and her quest for solace among the paranormal.

10

Emily’s Bridge - Stowe, Vermont

Image: Xiaocong Yan

In picturesque Stowe, Vermont, located among the charming covered bridges that dot New England’s landscape, there is one that harbors a chilling tale: Emily’s Bridge.

It is only 50 feet long, but this bridge has become synonymous with a tragic legend dating back to the mid-1800s.

As the story goes, a young woman named Emily was meant to rendezvous with her lover there for an elopement, but he never arrived . Devastated Emily took her own life, by hanging herself from the rafters. Yet, her spirit is said to linger, casting a sinister presence over the bridge. Locals tell Emily’s ghost allegedly torments passersby by clawing at their cars and leaving behind scary scratches.

Among the tales of spectral hauntings, sightings of a ghostly figure in white and inexplicable sounds echoing from the tunnel only add to the bridge’s macabre mystique.