The Best UNESCO World Heritage Sites To Visit In The U.S.

Did you know that the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization lists some fantastic sites in the United States? In addition to Machu Picchu and the Taj Mahal, iconic international destinations such as the Acropolis are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A total of 24 World Heritage Sites are in the U.S. today, and 19 more are being considered for official designation in 2023. Our picks for your next domestic vacation are outlined below.

San Antonio Missions

San Antonio Missions in South-Central Texas are five Spanish frontier mission complexes named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. Among the famous structures on the site is Mission Valero, known as the Alamo, built by Franciscan missionaries in the 18th century.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is not only the country’s first national park but also one of the country’s two first UNESCO World Heritage sites. The park covers a large area, mainly extending into Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. As one of the first national parks to be added to the list, Old Faithful Geyser is the star attraction.

Papahānaumokuākea

It is the largest marine protected area in the world, located around the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, and has been an official heritage site since 2010. Native Hawaiians value the area for its natural significance as a significant ecosystem and cultural significance.

Independence Hall

In 1979, Independence Hall in Philadelphia was designated as a heritage site, more than 200 years after the Founding Fathers met there to discuss and adopt the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. It is considered the birthplace of America due to the importance of these events.

Taos Pueblo

In 1992, Taos Pueblo became a national heritage site. The Pueblo consists of a cluster of ancient adobe structures dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The community is said to be the oldest continuously inhabited community in the United States.