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Calling travel buffs and Insta-connoisseurs! Ready to fill your feed with some iconic American beauty? We’ve scoured the ‘gram to round up a list of national monuments that are so stunning, they practically double as natural influencers.
For those ready to explore, bus and train buddies on standby, and anyone itching for adventure: this one’s for you! Let’s dive into the most Instafamous National Monuments across the US of A.
Top National Monuments Ranking
While it’s no surprise that New York and California both have 2 spots on the list, it’s incredible to see the diversity of destinations across the top 10.
Natural wonders like Muir Woods, Sonoran Desert, and Mount St. Helens are already covering a lot of ground, from giant trees to sweeping deserts, but they’re also partying it up with man-made celebs like the Statue of Liberty and Stonewall!
This list is a collab with human ingenuity and Mother Nature herself, showcasing our limitless enthusiasm for discovery – from astounding achievements we’ve engineered to the natural wonders she’s crafted.
The top 10 are fabulously unforgettable, stretching from sea to shining sea with as much versatility as the adventurers who view them. From the Statue of Liberty in New York, giving us major freedom vibes, to the wild and untamed beauty of Utah’s Grand Staircase-Escalante, every spot’s got its own unique flavor of awesome.
Top 10 Monuments in the U.S.
1. Statue of Liberty, New York
The Statue of Liberty isn’t just a pretty face; she’s a symbol of freedom and democracy that has welcomed millions to American shores. Gifted by France to the United States in 1886 as a token of friendship and a celebration of the centennial of American independence, Lady Liberty stands tall as a beacon of hope. Designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustave Eiffel (yes, that Eiffel), the statue was a monumental feat of art and engineering.
Located on Liberty Island and raking in millions of hashtags, she’s just a short ferry ride from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. Don’t miss capturing her best angles – which, between us, is every angle.
Plan a trip to the Statue of Liberty:
2. Stonewall, New York
Next stop on our hashtag tour, the Stonewall National Monument! It’s nestled right in the heart of Greenwich Village, NYC. This site marks a major moment in LGBTQ+ history: the Stonewall Uprising of 1969.
The Stonewall Inn, a bar located in the heart of New York City’s Greenwich Village, became the epicenter of a seismic shift on June 28, 1969. On this day, a police raid sparked a series of spontaneous and violent demonstrations by the LGBTQ+ community, a watershed event that is widely considered to be the catalyst for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. The courage and defiance of the Stonewall demonstrators challenged the societal norms of the time, leading to increased visibility and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
In recognition of its pivotal role in American history and culture, President Obama designated the Stonewall National Monument in 2016, making it the first U.S. National Monument dedicated to LGBTQ+ rights.
Nowadays, Instagrammers don’t just come here for the ‘gram. They come to pay homage to courage and snap a piece of progress. While there, hit up the charming streets of the Village and get a feel for the local beats, where history meets trendiness.
Plan a trip to Stonewall:
3. Muir Woods, California
Speaking of monumental, the towering redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument are officially Earth’s skyscrapers. Just north of San Francisco, these ancient woods have seen more than your typical tree hugger. Snap a pic of the cathedral-like forest canopy and share the surreal serenity with your followers. Pro-tip: no filter needed when Mother Nature is this lavish.
The history of this magical forest is as rich and profound as the trees are tall. Named after John Muir, the granddaddy of the modern environmental movement, this spot was destined for greatness from the get-go. John Muir was a naturalist who believed in preserving nature’s splendor for future generations to enjoy, and oh boy, did he nail it with this one!
But why did Muir Woods become a national monument? Back in the early 1900s, William Kent, a conservationist and politician, purchased the land to protect it from the rampant logging that threatened these ancient trees. Talk about a superhero move! In 1908, in a noble act of conservation, Kent donated the land to the federal government. And here’s the twist: he insisted it be named after John Muir, his environmentalist ally, rather than himself. President Theodore Roosevelt declared it a national monument, sealing the deal with a stroke of his pen. And voilà, Muir Woods National Monument was born!
Stepping into Muir Woods is like tiptoeing into an enchanted realm. Sorry, elves and hobbits not included, but the peace you’ll find? Priceless.
Plan a trip to Muir Woods:
4. Sonoran Desert, Arizona
Hot, hypnotic, and hashtag-worthy, the Sonoran Desert isn’t your average sandbox. Venture through Phoenix and Arizona at large, and you’ll see why this sprawling expanse is one of Instagram’s sandy sweethearts. Capture the stunning saguaros standing tall like spiky sentinels of the sand. Plus, the sunsets here will set your feed ablaze with likes.
But this desert is more than just sand and heat – it’s a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with life forms that are as unique as they are resilient. From the iconic saguaro cactus to the elusive Gila monster, it’s a living catalogue of adaptation and survival.
In fact, it’s all this life packed into one spot that earned the Sonoran Desert its National Monument status. In the early 20th century, conservationists and nature aficionados began to understand that places like the Sonoran Desert represent not just natural beauty but ecological wonders that are vital to our planet’s health. They campaigned for its protection, highlighting the desert’s role in supporting a wealth of plants and animals adapted to its harsh conditions.
Keep your eyes peeled for the desert bloom, aka nature’s pop-up party, when wildflowers bloom in staggering numbers across the desert.
Plan a trip to the Sonoran Desert:
| Yuma to Phoenix | $29.49 | |
| Los Angeles to Phoenix | $53.77 | |
| Las Vegas to Phoenix | $64.00 | |
| Dallas to Phoenix | $85.23 | |
| Your city to Phoenix | See Prices |
5. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington
Blast into your next adventure – literally – at Mount St. Helens. In 1980, this Washington State stunner held out on being your average mountain and decided to erupt instead. Today, Instagrammers head from Portland to hike, snap, and marvel at the jaw-dropping regeneration of the landscape. A tale of nature’s fury and phoenix-like rise, all in one panoramic frame.
But before it decided to remodel its surroundings in a grand, volcanic fashion, Mount St. Helens was just another beautiful peak in the Pacific Northwest, part of the Cascade Range and beloved by hikers, nature enthusiasts, and Bigfoot believers (yes, really!). But on May 18, 1980, it became an instant celebrity by showcasing nature’s raw power, changing the landscape forever.
Why did this epic mountain become a national monument, though? Post-eruption, Mount St. Helens wasn’t just about the ash, the blast zone, or even its newfound crater. It symbolized nature’s resilience and renewal. Declared a National Volcanic Monument in 1982, it’s a place where scientists, tourists, and nature lovers can observe the regeneration of flora and fauna, study geological changes, and marvel at how ecosystems recover from such a cataclysmic event.
While it’s much safer nowadays, a selfie here might just blow your likes up. 🌋
Plan a trip to Mount St. Helens:
| Eugene to Portland | $17.67 | |
| Eugene to Portland | $30.76 | |
| Seattle to Portland | $69.74 | |
| Chicago to Portland | $220.00 | |
| Your city to Portland | See Prices |
6. Devils Tower, Wyoming
This towering butte shoots up like a stone tree into the sky and holds sacred significance for Native American tribes.
Long before climbers were dotting its sides and drones captured its grandeur from the skies, Native American tribes revered it as a sacred site. They knew it by names that speak to its majesty and mystery, like “Bear Lodge,” hinting at its legendary origins where a bear’s mighty attempts to climb the rock left those impressive vertical marks.
The name change came when, in 1906, President Teddy Roosevelt declared Devils Tower the first national monument, setting a precedent for protecting unique natural wonders across the country. This bold move in 1906 wasn’t just about preserving a striking piece of geology; it was an acknowledgment of the cultural and spiritual narratives woven into the fabric of the landscape.
Visiting Devils Tower isn’t just a climb or a photo op; it’s a walk through time, an immersion in stories as ancient as the rocks themselves. And yes, while the bear legend might not make it into the scientific textbooks, it’s still a bear-y fun fact.
Plan a trip to Devils Tower:
7. San Gabriel Mountains, California
Once a hidden gem within California’s bustling metropolis, these mountains have been the backyard playground for Angelenos, providing much-needed green space and fresh air.
But it’s not just the modern-day hikers and nature lovers who’ve left their footprints along these trails; the mountains boast a rich history, having served as a crucial space for Native American tribes, Spanish missionaries, and gold miners throughout the centuries.
The call to protect this natural wonder reached a peak (pun intended) when President Barack Obama declared the San Gabriel Mountains a National Monument in 2014. Why all the fuss? Well, besides their breathtaking beauty and the recreational opportunities they offer, these mountains are a vital source of Los Angeles’s water and a critical wildlife habitat.
This designation aimed to conserve the area’s unique biodiversity, ensure the protection of its historical sites, and enhance recreational opportunities. Plus, with over 15 million people living within 90 minutes of their slopes, safeguarding the San Gabriel Mountains was also about securing outdoor access for one of the nation’s most populous regions.
Now, whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual picnicker, or an Instagram adventurer, the San Gabriel Mountains offer a slice of wilderness amidst the urban sprawl, proving that sometimes, the best escapes are the ones right above us.
Plan a trip to San Gabriel Mountains:
| Santa Barbara to Los Angeles | $27.00 | |
| Bakersfield to Los Angeles | $29.28 | |
| San Diego to Los Angeles | $36.18 | |
| Dallas to Los Angeles | $128.83 | |
| Your city to Los Angeles | See Prices |
8. Tonto National Monument, Arizona
Ever wonder how Tonto went from ancient cliff dwellings to an Instagram sensation? It’s a tale that stretches back centuries, intertwining with the lives of the Salado people who called this place home.
Picture this: around 700 years ago, these ingenious inhabitants built homes tucked into the cliffs, thriving amidst the rugged desert. Fast forward to 1907, and cue President Theodore Roosevelt (yep, the same one who safeguarded Devils Tower) who, with a flick of his conservationist’s pen, proclaimed Tonto a national monument.
Why the official shoutout? Roosevelt recognized the irreplaceable value of these cliff dwellings, not only as archaeological treasures but as sacred windows into America’s past. The aim was to protect these ancient abodes and the land around them, ensuring that future generations could marvel at, learn from, and feel connected to the echoes of history.
Visiting Tonto National Monument is about stepping into the storybooks of history and experiencing the legacy of America’s indigenous cultures firsthand. Plus, who can resist the charm of those desert vistas? 🌵✨
Plan a trip to Tonto:
| Tucson to Phoenix | $27.56 | |
| Calexico to Phoenix | $36.40 | |
| Riverside to Phoenix | $39.99 | |
| Bakersfield to Phoenix | $85.23 | |
| Your city to Phoenix | See Prices |
9. Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks, New Mexico
Get your hashtag game on peak performance in New Mexico’s Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks. With dramatic crags and wild wilderness, it’s the ultimate backdrop for anyone who says “adventure” more than “good morning.” Share the lunar landscapes and secret canyons, and remember to take it all in. Your followers can wait a minute – this beauty is timeless.
But this area is more than just a pretty face for your feed; it’s a living museum, brimming with history, culture, and biodiversity. From ancient rock art in hidden canyons to rugged peaks that reach for the skies, it’s a treasure trove of natural wonders.
In 2014, after a hearty push from the local community and nature enthusiasts who knew a good thing when they saw it, President Barack Obama designated the Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks as a national monument. This official title helps to protect and preserve its rich tapestry of cultural heritage, extraordinary wildlife habitats, and to ensure that its historic trails and archaeological sites remain intact for generations to come. This move wasn’t just about safeguarding land; it was about keeping stories alive – tales of Native Americans, early Spanish explorers, and daring outlaws that echo through the canyons.
The likes you’ll gather here are as organic as the mountains themselves. And trust us, that’s some solid Insta-gratification.
Plan a trip to the Organ Mountains:
| El Paso to Las Cruces | $15.49 | |
| Tucson to Las Cruces | $62.00 | |
| Los Angeles to Las Cruces | $122.00 | |
| Albuquerque to Las Cruces | $210.50 | |
| Your city to Las Cruces | See Prices |
10. Grand Staircase–Escalante, Utah
For the last stop on our top 10, we step into the grandeur of Utah’s Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument. It’s a geological showcase that will boldly go where no Instagram post has gone before. Slot canyons, river walks, and endless adventure make it a must-see – or rather, must-‘gram.
This colossal area, brimming with cliffs, canyons, and plateaus, tells a story billions of years old. It’s like flipping through the pages of Earth’s photo album! It’s a natural lab where dinosaurs once roamed, where untouched ecosystems thrive, and where humans can glimpse into the past through rock formations and ancient art.
In 1996, President Bill Clinton took one look at its scenic beauty and historical significance and said “Yep, we need to protect that.” He took the monumental step of designating Grand Staircase-Escalante as a national monument to preserve this space for research, education, and the sheer wonder of exploration.
When you step onto this massive staircase, don’t worry about tripping – you’ll be too caught up swooning over its beauty. Just don’t drop your phone; it’s not covered by monument insurance!
Plan a trip to Grand Staircase–Escalante:
Top Monuments by Region
Northeast
Fort McHenry
Statue of Liberty
Since she topped our list, it’s no surprise to see Lady Liberty as our #1 monument in the Northeast. Perched on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, this colossal copper lady not only offers a history lesson in French-American friendship but she also amps up your Instagram with some serious liberty-loving vibes. Pro tip: Snap your pic from a ferry for that breezy #StatueofLibertySelfie.
Stonewall
Another top 10 contender, Stonewall in NYC is a pint-sized monument with a mega-sized significance. The birthplace of modern LGBTQ+ rights, this spot’s all about pride, baby! Show your support and love with the hashtag #StonewallStrong in all its rainbow glory.
Fort McHenry
Cue the star-spangled nostalgia! Fort McHenry in Baltimore defended the home of the brave in the War of 1812 and inspired an anthem to boot. Instagrammers can find their inner Francis Scott Key and hashtag their hearts out with #Ohsaycanyousee the star-shaped design from above with killer drone shots.
Southeast
Castillo de San Marcos
Castillo de San Marcos
Down in sunny St. Augustine, Florida, Castillo de San Marcos stands as the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. With its ageless stone walls and narrative of survival, your feed will get a touch of the eternal Floridian sunshine and an air of old-world charm. #CastilloDeSanMarcos for some historical heft.
Fort Monroe
Virginia is for lovers, and Instagrammers will love Fort Monroe for its historic moat. Shall we say #MoatGoals? This Hampton beauty watches over the Chesapeake Bay, offering snaps of scenic waterfronts and tales of turning tides during the Civil War.
Fort Pulaski
Georgia on your mind? Savannah’s Fort Pulaski is where history meets the hashtag. Siege warfare history, beautiful brickwork, and natural wetlands, gives ‘grammers a #PulaskiPostcard that’s part educational, fully picturesque.
Midwest
Grand Portage
Grand Portage
Grand Portage packs a punch with cultural heritage on the shores of Lake Superior in Minnesota. A key trading post back in the day, it’s the perfect spot for a #FurTradeFlashback and lakeside lounging, with an Insta-story to match!
Scotts Bluff
Calling all pioneers! Nebraska’s Scotts Bluff has been a landmark for Native Americans, emigrants, and now, Insta-explorers. Throw in a #BluffBuff selfie with those majestic rock formations and watch your follower count trek upwards.
Jewel Cave
Who doesn’t love a bit of underground sparkle? South Dakota’s Jewel Cave is the third-longest cave in the world, and it’s an Instagrammer’s dream deep down under. Use #JewelCaveJourney for that stunning spelunking shot that rocks—literally.
Southwest
Sonoran Desert
Sonoran Desert
This desert must be special to earn the top spot in the Southwest, plus 4th overall in the US. Arizona’s Sonoran Desert is hashtag heaven with its iconic Saguaro cacti standing tall against painted sunsets. It’s a botanical bonanza of the spiky kind where #DesertDrama meets #CactusCouture.
Tonto
More than just a sidekick name or the 8th most popular monument in the US, Tonto brings cliff dwellings and cultural richness that dates way back. History buffs and photo fans unite with #TontoTimeTravel in their captions and a panoramic pic to prove it.
Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks
New Mexico’s top 10 monument contender brings all the hikers to the yard, and they’re like, #PeakPicturePerfect. Capture those jagged peaks and rare wildlife that give your Instagram a run for its money—or should we say, views?
West
Mount St. Helens
Muir Woods
Cross the Golden Gate Bridge and step into the serene world of California’s Muir Woods, where the Redwoods reach for the ‘gram. Our third-place monument overall, the Muir Woods tops the charts for the West. Channel your inner John Muir with a #AmongstTheGiants tag, and don’t forget to look up—way up.
Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
Washington’s Mount St. Helens blew minds and ash back in 1980, and today, it blows up your feed with its rugged beauty. Whether it’s an #EruptionReflection or #VolcanicVista, this mountainous monument is erupting with potential both as our 5th most popular monument overall and the 2nd place winner for the West.
Devils Tower
Last but definitely not close to least (well, technically 6th overall), Devils Tower in Wyoming is an igneous wonder shooting straight out of legend and lore—#RockStar status guaranteed. Whether you’re into climbing or #AlienLanding lore, this one’s a supernatural hit on any feed.
Phew, you’ve made it through the grand tour! Each of these monumental locales offers a unique glimpse into America’s past, present, and epic Instagrammability. And remember, whether you’re traveling by bus or train, each snapshot you share connects us all a little bit more to the incredible story that is the U.S.
Happy ‘gramming, wanderers!
Methodology
Here’s how we found the most famous streets in the US:
- We collected a complete list of all the national monuments throughout the U.S.
- For each monument, we scoured Instagram for the top 3 most popular hashtags directly related to the monument (even if they were mistakenly tagged as a National Park or Reserve. It happens to all of us!).
- With that mega list, we added up the number of posts under each of those three hashtags to get a total number of posts for each monument.
- From there, we used that total number of posts to rank each monument, both in general and broken up by region.
Speaking of regions, here’s how we categorized the states:
- Northeast: Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington DC
- Southeast: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
- Midwest: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin
- Southwest: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah
- West: California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming
You are welcome to use the information and graphics on this page, crediting Wanderu. If you do so, please link back to this page, so that Instagrammers around the world can see all the data and find out how we came up with the rankings.
