From Maine's rocky coast and the grasslands of the Midwest to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains and arid Mojave Desert, America is a land of geographical variety and splendor. Discover the country's notable destinations and rich cultural diversity.

Post Ranch Inn Big Sur California

Big Sur's California Dreamin'

Untrammeled wilderness and new age enclave, Big Sur retains its rugged beauty and quirky charm
By James Conaway

Pensacola Florida

Florida

Harboring History in Pensacola

In Florida's panhandle, vibrant Pensacola stakes its claim as the oldest European settlement in the United States
By Donovan Webster

VIDEO: Underwater Archaeology in Pensacola Bay »
Mexican Pilsen neighborhood

Chicago Eats

From curried catfish to baba ghanouj, Chicago serves up what may be the finest ethnic cuisine going
By Jamie Katz

Calendar of Events

Destination America map

Highlights & Hotspots


By Smithsonian magazine

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South Dakota

Crazy Horse Memorial
  • Mount Rushmore
    With a Native American superintendent, the South Dakota monument is becoming much more than a shrine to four presidents.

Arizona

Tombstones dusty streets
  • Tombstone
    In this Arizona outpost, residents revere the Wild West—and live it.

Virginia

American Revolution to the Civil War
  • Hallowed Highway
    From Gettysburg to Monticello, a 175 mile thoroughfare leads through a rich concentration of national history

Alaska

town of Sitka
  • Sitka
    A tradition-rich village lies at the doorstep of a vast Alaskan wilderness






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    Destination America 2008

    Explore notable places from sea to shining sea. Discover Maine's rugged coast, New Mexico's Acoma Pueblo, Florida's crystalline waters and more

    Destination America 2007

    Go on a cultural journey across America as Smithsonian.com explores some of the country's most remarkable places

    Destination America 2006

    Explore a Mount Rushmore makeover, the New Guthrie Theater, Tombstone Arizona and more

    Destination America 2005

    From Custer's Little Bighorn battlefield, to Eudora Welty's Mississippi garden, to an underwater wonderland in the Florida Keys--seven destinations to entice our ever-discerning readers

    Travel with Smithsonian