1

Olympic National Park

Image: Georg Eiermann

Let’s kick off our ranking with Olympic National Park, located in the state of Washington. The park was designated as a National Park in 1938 during Franklin Roosevelt's presidency.

What makes this National Park so remarkable? Well, it has three distinct ecosystems : the temperate rainforest (which is the only one in the contiguous United States), the rugged coastline, and glaciated peaks. This variety of landscapes brings a rich biodiversity to the area that is definitely worth visiting!

2

Joshua Tree National Park

Image: James Lee

We know it’s in the name, but did you know Joshua Trees aren’t actually trees ? They belong to a subgroup within the yucca species. These plants can live for over 150 years, and you can find them in this park, among other places.

Similar to Olympic National Park, this park features three separate ecosystems: a part is within the Colorado Desert, it also includes California juniper, the San Bernardino Mountains, and the Mojave Desert where you’ll find the famous Joshua trees.

If that wasn’t enough reason to pay a visit, you have to know that this park has one of the darkest skies in Southern California, providing an excellent opportunity to spot the Milky Way galaxy!

3

Grand Teton National Park

Image: Michael Kirsh

Located in Wyoming, this National Park is home to what is believed to be the youngest mountain range in the Rocky Mountains: they are only between six and nine million years old!

In Grand Teton, you’ll find incredibly tall mountain peaks (the highest reaching 13,770 feet) and a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, gray wolves, coyotes, moose, and more.

Established in 1929, the park was later combined with the Jackson Hole National Monument, in 1943. Today, the town of Jackson Hole, located to the south of Grand Teton is the main hub of activity in the area. And, if you visit, you can actually make it a two-for-one trip because it's only 10 miles away from Yellowstone National Park, which will be featured later in this list!

4

Acadia National Park

Image: Raphael Assouline

Acadia National Park receives over 3.5 million visitors each year, and that has secured a position in this ranking. The park features granite mountains, rocky coastlines, ponds, lakes, and all kinds of plants and wildlife. It is an Atlantic shoreline beauty!

The park was first named Sieur de Monts National Monument by President Wilson in 1916. In 1919, it was renamed Lafayette National Park, but that wasn’t the end of it. In 1929, the name officially changed to Acadia National Park, honoring "Arcadia," a region in Greece that is pretty similar to the park!

5

Yosemite National Park

Image: Jota Lao

Although it is not one of the top three most visited national parks in our country, the park’s popularity is undeniable because it was the one park that paved the way for the National Park System as we know it today. The establishment of this area as a national park is largely credited to John Muir, a Scottish naturalist who recorded the beauty of the area and raised awareness around it.

Today, Yosemite covers an area of 759,600 acres and is home to granite cliffs, giant sequoias, mountains, glaciers, streams, and waterfalls. It is predominantly classified as wilderness and is, of course, a protected area.

6

Rocky Mountain National Park

Image: Lauren Lopes

This national park is a gem in Colorado and the 4.5 million visitors it receives each year is a testament to that. The park boasts rugged mountain terrain, alpine lakes, and dense forests—making it simply breathtaking.

It was established in 1915, and it is home to Longs Peak , which stands at an impressive 14,259 feet, and the famous Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in the country! Besides, this park is home to over a thousand types of wildflowers and 280 species of birds, just to mention a few details that make it an incredible place in America!

7

Yellowstone National Park

Image: Nicolasintravel

Yellowstone National Park is a true icon of the American West, and with over 4 million visitors each year, it’s easy to see why. The park lies across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, and it showcases wilderness at its best: geysers, hot springs, rivers, and canyons co-exist within the area. It is also home to the famous Old Faithful , the visitor’s favorite: an ever-erupting geyser!

Yellowstone holds the honor of being the very first national park in the world, having been established in 1872. The idea of preserving this vast and unique landscape for future generations was revolutionary at the time, and it laid the groundwork for the global national park movement. Have you had the chance to visit it yet?

8

Zion National Park

Image: Jamie Hagan

This deserted wonderland is located in Utah and it is known for the towering red sandstone cliffs and deep canyons as well as the glowy rock formations .

Established in 1919, it was Utah’s first National Park, and it is home to over 100 miles of trails. Car access to the park is limited, so there are plenty of hiking trails within the area. Moreover, this park is home to the second largest freestanding arch in the world which is 287 feet in length.

If you visit the park, you will surely make a stop at the Zion Lodge. But, did you know this is not the original construction? The original structure was struck by a fire in 1960, so the one you see today is actually a second version of it!

9

Grand Canyon National Park

Image: Michael Kirsh

You probably thought this was the most visited park in our country, but there’s another that holds that title! As for the Grand Canyon, it still is incredibly popular, and receives over 6 million visitors every year!

Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon stretches 277 miles long and a mile deep. It was established in 1919 and it is only second in the ranking due to the powerful and awe-inspiring sights. That’s why it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World .

Across the canyon, visitors can enjoy the Colorado River, where water carves layers of rock that have been in the area for millions of years. No words can capture its beauty, you just have to visit it to understand it.

10

Great Smoky Mountains

Image: Micah Williams

To close our ranking, we present the most visited National Park in America: the Great Smoky Mountains. Did you guess it right? Even if you did, you would have never guessed the number of visitors right: a shocking 13 million visitors a year ! Now, the reasons? Almost as many as its visitors.

The National Park was established in 1934, but the mountains that are housed in it were formed millions of years ago. It spans the borders between North Carolina and Tennessee and it is best known for its mist-covered mountains, lush forests, and the remarkable biodiversity of plants and animals.

With 800 miles of hiking trails, among which you’ll find the Appalachian Trail, preserved historic buildings, and peaceful retreats, it’s no surprise that the number one park on our list is also a favorite among visitors. Do you agree?

1

Arizona skips Daylight Saving Time

Image: Christoph von Gellhorn

This is partly true because most of the state doesn’t bother with Daylight Saving Time . They stopped changing the clocks back in 1967. The exception is the Navajo Nation, which stretches into Utah and New Mexico and keeps DST so all its communities stay on the same schedule. Now, as for the smaller Hopi reservation, inside the Navajo Nation, it sticks with Arizona time… Yes, quite confusing if you’re not a local.

2

Georgia isn’t really the Peach State

Image: Jessica Furtney

Georgia loves its peaches, sure, but the state’s top fruit money-maker is actually blueberries . In recent years, blueberries have brought in several times more cash for farmers than peaches. Meanwhile, California grows far more peaches than Georgia ever has. The nickname stuck from the old days when Georgia peaches were famous for their flavor, not their volume. So while the pride is real, the peaches aren’t quite the powerhouse people may think.

3

Nevada didn’t record the hottest US temperature

Image: tommao wang

You probably think of Nevada’s desert heat as unmatched, but the all-time record belongs to California’s Death Valley . In July 1913, it hit a mind-melting 134 degrees Fahrenheit, the hottest temperature not only in America but the hottest ever recorded on Earth!

4

Minnesota doesn’t have the most lakes

Image: Tom Conway

Minnesota proudly calls itself the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," but that’s selling itself short… The real number is closer to 12,000. However, Alaska wins this battle . The state has more than 3 million lakes over five acres in size. In fact, Alaska contains over 40 percent of the nation’s surface water. If you love fishing, kayaking, or just staring at a quiet stretch of water, the true lake capital of America is far up north.

5

Pineapples aren’t native to Hawaii

Image: Christian Joudrey

Pineapples are everywhere in Hawaiian imagery, but the plant actually comes from South America , mainly Paraguay and southern Brazil. Spanish explorers likely brought them to Hawaii in the 1500s after spreading them across the Pacific to places like the Philippines and Guam. Hawaii’s climate turned out to be perfect for growing them and by the 1900s, the islands were producing so many pineapples that the fruit became a symbol of Hawaii itself.

6

Maine isn’t the country’s easternmost point

Image: Chris Henry

If you’re a Geography geek, you’ll love this one. You might picture Maine’s rocky coast as the eastern tip of America, but the actual easternmost point is thousands of miles away, on Alaska’s Semisopochnoi Island in the Aleutians. How is that possible? Well, that’s because it crosses the 180th meridian, putting it in the Eastern Hemisphere. That means part of Alaska technically sits farther east than anywhere in Maine.

7

The biggest US earthquake didn’t happen in California

Image: Lala Miklós

California has suffered some big earthquakes in its history, but the most powerful earthquake in America struck Alaska in 1964 . It hit Prince William Sound with a magnitude of 9.2. It was so strong it shook the ground for four and a half minutes and triggered massive tsunamis. In today’s dollars, the damage would total more than $2 billion. Alaska sits on a collision zone of tectonic plates, making it one of the world’s most seismically active regions.

8

The Everglades isn’t America’s biggest swamp

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

A lot of people picture the Florida Everglades when they think of swamps, but technically, the Everglades isn’t a swamp at all. The real title of the largest swamp in the United States goes to Louisiana’s Atchafalaya Basin , which spans about 1.4 million acres. This swamp has a vast mix of cypress forests, bayous, and marshes, and it’s more than twice as productive as the Everglades when it comes to wildlife and plant life.

9

Big cities aren’t always capitals

Image: Mackenzie Cruz

It surprises people how often the biggest city isn’t the state capital . New York City? Not the capital… Albany is. Chicago? Nope, that honor goes to Springfield. Pennsylvania’s capital isn’t Philly or Pittsburgh, it’s Harrisburg. Even California’s capital isn’t L.A. or San Francisco, it’s actually Sacramento. Out of fifty states, only seventeen have their most populous city as the capital.

10

Alaska isn’t divided into counties

Image: Rod Long

Alaska likes to do things its own way. Instead of counties, it’s split into boroughs , and a massive area known as the Unorganized Borough has no local government at all. People out there don’t pay property taxes, but that freedom comes with challenges, limited services, fewer job options, and tough living conditions.

1

French Bulldog

The French Bulldog has held the title of the most popular dog breed in the US since 2022. Their friendly and adaptable nature, combined with their small size, makes them perfect companions for people living in apartments or smaller homes. They may snore a little when they sleep, but that only makes them even cuter.

Just be cautious around water. Despite their bold personalities, French Bulldogs are not strong swimmers. So it’s important to supervise them closely near pools, fountains, or any other body of water.

2

Labrador Retriever

In second place, we have the beloved Labrador Retrievers, who were surpassed by French Bulldogs only in 2022. For more than three decades, the sweet Labrador was America’s favorite dog, and for good reason.

Known for their outgoing and gentle temperament, they get along wonderfully with adults, children, and even other animals. Their intelligence and sensitivity also help them stand out not only as loyal family pets and hunting companions, but also as therapy and service dogs.

3

Golden Retriever

Right behind Labradors are Golden Retrievers, the good guys of the neighborhood. With their warm temperament and endless energy, they’ve earned the number three spot among the most popular breeds. Often described as "people pleasers," Goldens are more than just obedient; they’re quick learners who are always eager to join you on any adventure.

4

German Shepherd

Fourth on the list are German Shepherds, elegant, impressive dogs renowned for their loyalty, intelligence, and ability to learn quickly. Unlike Labradors and Golden Retrievers, however, they often have a more serious image, largely because they’re commonly associated with police work, search and rescue, and service roles. Naturally protective, they tend to be reserved at first but become affectionate with those they trust.

Do you remember Rin Tin Tin? He was a great example of the breed and helped bring German Shepherds to worldwide fame.

5

Poodle

It’s hard to write a paragraph about Poodles, not because we don’t have anything to say, but because it’s easy to be distracted by all that cuteness. Ranked fifth among the most popular breeds, Poodles also rank among the most intelligent dogs in the world. Their extraordinary smarts and enthusiasm to learn come from their history as skilled hunting dogs and even circus performers. Thanks to their obedience, agility, and strong bond with people, they continue to hold a top spot among America’s favorite breeds.

6

Dachshund

In sixth place are the adorable Dachshunds. Famous for their long bodies, short legs, and big personalities, these dogs weren’t in the top rankings a decade ago. Many believe their surge in popularity has been fueled in part by viral internet videos showcasing their charm and humor. But don’t let their small size fool you: Dachshunds may be small, but their deep, bold bark makes them sound much bigger than they really are.

7

Beagle

Beagles come in seventh place, though if there were a contest for best ears, they’d surely take first. They’re loved not only for their adorable looks but also for their intelligence and, above all, their extraordinary sense of smell. Originally bred as rabbit-hunting hounds, Beagles have a highly efficient nose and a powerful tracking instinct.

8

Rottweiler

With their striking appearance and muscled bodies, Rottweilers naturally command respect. Known for their loyalty and strong protective instincts, Rottweilers are a favorite among families who have enough space for these large, energetic dogs.

Did you know they’re considered one of the oldest surviving dog breeds? It’s true! Their ancestors are believed to have accompanied the legions of the ancient Roman Empire, where they were used to herd and guard livestock.

9

Bulldog

They may have a grumpy look, but Bulldogs are incredibly sweet and calm. Ranked number nine on the list, this lovable breed is a great choice for anyone looking for a dog that easily adapts to their home and lifestyle. While they’re not exactly lazy, Bulldogs do enjoy taking plenty of breaks and conserving their energy, often choosing a cozy spot on the couch over a run around the block. Plus, with those funny faces, you’ll never run out of excellent pictures.

10

German Shorthaired Pointer

Last on this list, but still among the most popular breeds in the country, the German Shorthaired Pointer is admired for its elegance and presence. Originally bred in Germany as versatile hunting dogs, this breed excels at pointing, retrieving, and tracking. With their boundless energy, German Shorthaired Pointers are best suited to homes with plenty of outdoor space, as their athletic build and enthusiasm also help them shine in a wide range of dog sports.