Advice for Visiting 5 Top U.S. Destinations + Printable Travel Posters

Advice for Visiting 5 Top U.S. Destinations + Printable Travel Posters

As the Fourth of July approaches you might be yearning for a trip to an iconic U.S. attraction. With places such as the White House in Washington, D.C, Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, and the Empire State Building in New York City, there are certainly a lot of amazing sights to be seen.

You’ll want to make sure to plan ahead and know what to expect before visiting these destinations. Check out the tips below for visiting five amazing U.S. sites as well as printable travel posters by Apartment Guide to get you excited about your travels.

1. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

In 1927 the faces of U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt were carved into stone to help attract tourists to South Dakota. The project, which took 14 years to complete, was a huge success and the memorial continues to attract nearly 2 million visitors each year.

What to consider before planning a trip

• Research other things to do, such as additional parks to visit, if you’re taking a road trip through South Dakota. Most people don’t spend too much time visiting the sculpture itself.
• Although there is no entry fee to the park, there is a parking fee at the memorial. The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass, the Military Annual Pass, the Senior Pass, the Access Pass and the Every Kid Outdoors Pass don’t cover the fee.

Download Mount Rushmore Poster

2. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

The 1.7 mile long bridge, which has sidewalks for pedestrians, opened in 1937. It cost $35 million to construct and 11 workers lost their lives in the process. Each year more than 10 million people visit the Golden Gate Bridge, which offers spectacular views.

What to consider before planning a trip

• If you’re crossing the bridge in the southbound direction, toward San Francisco, you’ll need a form of electronic payment. 
• It can get cold and windy so make sure to pack appropriate clothing.
• This is a very popular destination, so expect crowds!

Download Golden Gate Bridge Poster

3. The White House, District of Columbia

In 1927, George Washington selected the location of the White House and after eight years of construction, President John Adams and his wife were the first to move into the unfinished house in 1800. Every president since John Adams has occupied the White House, which has 412 doors, 147 windows, 28 fireplaces, 8 staircases, and 3 elevators.

What to consider before planning a trip

• Tours are in high demand and get canceled at the last minute, so it’s important to have an alternative plan in mind. Fortunately, there is a lot to do in Washington D.C.
• You cannot use video cameras, flash photography, or live streaming. 
• You may want to do your own research ahead of time. Some visitors have reported being disappointed with the lack of information provided.

Download The White House Poster

4. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The majority of the 5.5 million people who visit the Grand Canyon each year see the South Rim, which is open all year. Only about 10 percent of people visit the North Rim, where lodging and food services are only open between May 15th and October 15th. The Grand Canyon, which at its widest point stretches 18 miles, is known for its draw dropping views.

What to consider before planning a trip

• Some trails are long and can become challenging due to weather. Also keep in mind the weather can drastically change between night and day.
• Summer is the busiest season and the trails can get crowded.
• Between entrance fees, lodging, and food, the trip can get expensive so make sure to budget accordingly.

Download Grand Canyon National Park Poster

5. The Empire State Building, New York

The Empire State Building, which stands at 1,431 feet high, was the tallest skyscraper in the world when it was completed in 1931. Today, the building offers breathtaking views of New York City from its 102nd-floor observation deck and attracts approximately 4 million visitors each year.

What to consider before planning a trip

• Expect it to take three to four hours to reach the top of the building due to crowds.
• If you’re not going to New York City specifically to see the Empire State Building, consider getting a view of the city from another place, such as the Rockefeller Center observation deck.
• Make sure your tickets are from a valid vendor and will be accepted at the door.

Download Empire State Building Poster

Even if you can’t travel this 4th of July holiday, be sure to plan a future trip to visit these iconic cities and destinations.  I know I am putting this on my bucket list for next year.

Enjoy your holiday.

This was a guest post from Apartment Guide. Be sure to visit their site for more helpful guides.