The 6 most beautiful views in America

Thick fog covering Golden Gate Bridge. Photo: Radoslaw Lecyk/Shutterstock

Famed for his love of nature, American President Theodore Roosevelt wrote of his country, “There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness, that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy, and its charm.” And anyone who has visited this vast country will likely be able to rhapsodise on something truly beautiful they’ve seen, whether in wild nature, or a wild city. In that spirit, here are six of the most beautiful views in America to swoon over.

1. Big Sur, CA

Two distinctly different (but both great) ways to see the breathtakingly beautiful coastal view at Big Sur: Those seeking wild nature can to take one of the inspiring yoga retreats at the renowned Esalen Institute, with its incredible trails and views; those seeking indulgence can head to award-winning restaurant Sierra Mar at the Post Ranch to watch the sun set. Aaah...
View of highway 1 with an arched bridge at Big Sur. Photo: David B. Petersen/Shutterstock

2. Grand Teton National Park, WY

Looking for a little perspective on life? Feast your eyes on the tallest mountain in this Wyoming National Park, Grand Teton – and take a deep breath. You’ll be standing in a region where human history stretches back 11,000 years, with an ecosystem that’s been existent since prehistoric times; our favorite spot for soaking it all in is Schwabacher's Landing.
Sunrise at Schwabacher's Landing in Wyoming. Photo: Kristin Trammell Lindsey/Shutterstock

3. Golden Gate Bridge, SF

Drive or hike to Marin Headlands at the tippy-tip of Marin County, CA, and from here you can take in the full splendor of America’s most iconic bridge and the city. We won’t judge you if you take a selfie.
The stunning Golden Gate Bridge. Photo: Anders E. Skanberg/Shutterstock

4. Manhattan skyline, NY

You can stand pretty much anywhere on the banks of the East River in Brooklyn or the Hudson River in Jersey and get a decent view of the Manhattan skyline – it’s that impressive. But our favorite viewing spot is from the Brooklyn Bridge Park in Brooklyn’s Dumbo. Gaze serenely over the river, or jump on one of the antique horses on Jane’s Carousel and peep glances from there.
Brooklyn Bridge and New York skyline across the East River. Photo: Makushin Alexey/Shutterstock

5. Painted Desert, AZ

Stretching over 160 miles in Arizona, the Painted Desert is almost implausibly beautiful. The stripey effect you’ll see on the mountains the result of millions of years of stratified rock formations (including a Triassic period coniferous forest!). Watch the landscape change with the light, and be duly awestruck.
Painted Desert, Arizona. Photo: Laurin Rinder/Shutterstock

6. West Quoddy Head Light, ME

There are 65 lighthouses scattered on Maine’s 5,000 miles of coastline, and this is among its prettiest – and, being the easternmost point in the US, it’s also the first place you can see the sun rise from. What’s more, it’s a mere 15 minute drive to Campobello Island in Canada where you’ll find Roosevelt Campobello International Park – the former home of President Franklin D Roosevelt, and now the only National Park to be run by both the US and Canada.
Coastal Scenic West Quoddy Lighthouse, Maine. Photo: S.R. Maglione/Shutterstock

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