【Traveling to the USA in 2026】Top Five Must-Visit Landmarks | A Complete Guide to San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and Stunning Natural Scenery

Are you planning an unforgettable long-distance trip in 2026? For travelers from Hong Kong and Taiwan, the United States has always been a destination brimming with endless charm. From the dazzling and vibrant modern metropolises to breathtaking natural wonders, this vast land offers countless corners waiting to be explored. Whether you are a road trip enthusiast who loves renting a car or a city wanderer with an artistic flair, the USA can fulfill all your expectations. This time, Kinnso has carefully selected the five most iconic must-visit landmarks in the United States. We will start with the legendary Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and take you on a journey to experience the ultimate beauty of this land. Pack your bags and let's embark on this exciting journey across the American continent together!

When it comes to iconic landmarks on the West Coast of the United States, San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge undoubtedly takes the top spot. This suspension bridge, recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers as one of the "Wonders of the Modern World," not only connects the city's downtown to Marin Headlands but also frequently appears in countless films and photographs. Its most famous feature is undoubtedly the striking "International Orange" color of its structure, often shrouded in thick sea fog affectionately referred to by locals as "Karl the Fog." When the orange steel towers emerge from the white sea of mist, the ethereal romantic atmosphere created is truly unforgettable.

In addition to the magnificent structure of the Golden Gate Bridge itself, the surrounding area has been thoughtfully developed into a comprehensive recreational zone. You can easily connect this site with other treasure spots in San Francisco, such as the historically rich Presidio, the lush Crissy Field, the classically beautiful Palace of Fine Arts, and the fascinating Wave Organ. If you want to fully appreciate the bridge's beauty, renting a bicycle is highly recommended, or you can take a leisurely stroll across the bridge, feeling the gentle breeze as you experience the awe-inspiring impact of this grand architectural marvel from various perspectives.

- Best Photography Spots: For close-up shots, head to Baker Beach or China Beach. If you're looking for postcard-worthy views, the Golden Gate Overlook offers stunning images framed by Monterey cypress trees; Battery East and Pacific Overlooks provide unobstructed panoramic views. On the Marin County side, Battery Spencer, Lime Point Lighthouse, and Kirby Cove are also excellent options. - Personal Recommendation: It is highly recommended to stroll along the well-maintained coastal trail at Lands End. This winding path is adorned with unique Bay Area wildflowers and offers breathtaking views of the bay and the bridge along the way. - Transportation and Fees: Crossing the bridge is completely free for pedestrians and cyclists. If you choose to drive, heading north out of the city is free, but traveling south into downtown San Francisco incurs a toll of about $10 (approximately HKD 78 / TWD 320), with electronic toll collection currently in place. - Visitor Center: Located at the southern end of the bridge, near the intersection of Lincoln Blvd and Bridge View Dr, this center is an ideal starting point for your adventure.

If the Golden Gate Bridge represents the pinnacle of human engineering, then the Grand Canyon stands as nature's wildest masterpiece. Standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon and gazing down at the profound gorge carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, one cannot help but feel a sense of insignificance in the face of nature's grandeur. The layers of red, orange, and brown rock on the canyon walls document billions of years of Earth's geological history. No matter how many photos of the Grand Canyon you have seen, being physically present at the cliff's edge offers a three-dimensional visual experience and awe that no camera can fully capture.

Most travelers choose to start their journey from the bustling city of Las Vegas. Many visitors from Hong Kong and Taiwan opt to rent a car for a self-driving adventure, taking about four to five hours to reach the most popular destination, the South Rim. The South Rim is open year-round and boasts excellent facilities, featuring numerous spectacular viewpoints. If you wish to avoid the crowds and are traveling during the summer, the North Rim offers a quieter experience with a higher elevation and is surrounded by lush forests, providing a different perspective.

- Ticket Information: The entrance fee for each private vehicle is $35 (approximately HKD 273 / TWD 1,120). The ticket is valid for seven days and includes all passengers in the vehicle. - Travel Tips: Sunrise and sunset are the most magical moments at the Grand Canyon! The sunlight casts at a low angle on the rock walls, creating stunning colors that resemble flames. It is recommended to arrive an hour early at Hopi Point or Yavapai Point to secure a good spot. If your budget allows, taking a helicopter tour for an aerial view of the Grand Canyon is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

When visiting New York on the East Coast, one cannot overlook this magnificent statue that symbolizes hope, freedom, and opportunity. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States in 1886. It is not only an iconic landmark of New York but also embodies the very spirit of America. Countless immigrants crossed the Atlantic by ship, and upon seeing the towering figure of the Statue of Liberty holding her torch through the mist, they knew they had finally arrived at the new land of their dreams. Alongside the Statue of Liberty, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is filled with historical warmth, having served as the first stop for millions of immigrants entering the United States. It is truly worth taking the time to explore and appreciate.

To reach these two islands, the only mode of transportation is via the officially designated ferry service. You can embark from Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan in New York or from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. As the ferry gently departs from Manhattan Island, take a moment to look back and admire the breathtaking skyline of New York City—this is undoubtedly a must-capture moment during your entire journey.

- Ticket Information: The basic ferry and island admission ticket costs approximately $24.50 (around HKD 190 / TWD 780). - Travel Tips: If you wish to access the crown of the Statue of Liberty (Crown Access), be sure to book on the official website three to five months in advance, as slots are very limited each day! Additionally, before boarding, you will need to go through a security screening similar to that at an airport, so it's advisable to allow ample time for queuing and to travel light, avoiding large backpacks.

Yellowstone National Park is the first national park in the world. It serves not only as a wildlife sanctuary but also as a living supervolcano! This remarkable site is home to more than half of the world's geothermal features. As you walk along the wooden boardwalks, the air is filled with the scent of sulfur and white steam, making you feel as if you've stepped onto another planet. Among its most famous attractions is the "Old Faithful" geyser, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting boiling water high into the sky, creating a truly spectacular scene. Meanwhile, the "Grand Prismatic Spring" resembles a colossal, colorful eye, with deep blue waters surrounded by vibrant yellow and orange rings formed by microorganisms, offering a breathtaking view.

In addition to its geological wonders, Yellowstone is also a premier wildlife paradise in North America. In the expansive Lamar Valley or Hayden Valley, you can easily spot herds of American bison and graceful elk. If you're lucky, you might even catch a distant glimpse of grizzly bears and gray wolves. For travelers who love photography and nature, this place is truly an unparalleled treasure.

- Best Time to Visit: The warmest weather and fully accessible roads are from May to September each year. - Ticket Information: The entrance fee for each vehicle is $35 (approximately HKD 273 / TWD 1120), valid for seven days. - Travel Tips: Safety should always be the top priority! Maintain a safe distance of at least 25 yards (about 23 meters) from wildlife, and if you encounter bears or wolves, increase that distance to 100 yards. Additionally, the crust in geothermal areas is extremely fragile and the water temperatures are very high, so please do not stray from the designated boardwalks during your visit to ensure your safety.

The final location to explore is Antelope Canyon, situated in the southwestern United States and managed by the Navajo Nation. This stunning slot canyon is renowned as one of the most beautiful in the world, having been shaped over millions of years by monsoon floods, ice, and wind erosion. The red sandstone has been carved into smooth, flowing wave-like patterns that resemble the movement of water. When the midday sun streams through the narrow openings at the top of the canyon, it creates sacred "Light Beams" that illuminate the orange-red rock walls. This enchanting and mysterious scene is the ultimate dream for any photography enthusiast.

Antelope Canyon is divided into two sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. The Upper Antelope Canyon is accessible from the ground level, featuring a flat terrain where the famous light beam phenomenon predominantly occurs. In contrast, the Lower Antelope Canyon requires climbing steep metal stairs to reach the underground area. This section of the canyon is narrower and more winding, offering a rich variety of lighting changes, making it ideal for those who enjoy adventure and unique compositions.

- Tickets and Regulations: Antelope Canyon is a Native American reservation, and visitors cannot enter the area independently. It is essential to book a guided tour led by a Navajo guide in advance. The cost varies depending on the time and section of the canyon, typically ranging from $70 to $100 (approximately HKD 540-780 / TWD 2240-3200). - Travel Tips: The canyon is prone to dust storms, so it is highly recommended to bring lens cleaning tools and a buff to protect your mouth and nose. Due to the narrow space inside, tripod usage is currently prohibited on guided tours. Increase your camera's ISO settings to capture the rapidly changing light and shadows.

The United States is vast and diverse, with each state, national park, and iconic landmark offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. From the romantic fog of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and Yellowstone National Park, these destinations have become world-class travel hotspots because they resonate with our deep-seated desire to explore the unknown. We hope that this guide to the top attractions in the U.S. for 2026, curated by Kinnso, will assist you in planning your dream journey across America. Be sure to add these destinations to your travel list and start looking forward to your next exciting adventure!