How can you measure beauty? It's mostly subjective, but a new study uses math to determine the most beautiful landmarks in the U.S. Level Frames, a custom online framing service, analyzed iconic U.S. landmarks using the golden ratio—the mathematical formula behind nature’s most harmonious designs—to find out which are the most aesthetically pleasing and ultimately “frame-worthy.”
At number one is Independence Hall in Philadelphia. With a near-perfect deviation of just 0.04 from the golden ratio, this Georgian-style landmark isn’t just historic—it’s mathematically gorgeous. The symmetry of its facade, tower and steeple hits all the right visual notes.
Next is Hoover Dam, straddling the Nevada-Arizona border. While it’s mostly known for its brute force and engineering might, its curved lines and Art Deco flourishes earn it the number two spot with a 0.52 deviation.
Rounding out the top three is Spaceship Earth at Epcot. With a 0.53 deviation, the massive geodesic sphere proves that even theme parks can serve architectural elegance.
One of the most picturesque U.S. landmarks is Idaho Falls’ Giant Eagle Waterfall Nest sculpture, with a 0.01 deviation. It’s got everything: soaring birds, symmetrical wings and balanced drama.
Wright Brothers National Memorial in North Carolina is another visually stunning landmark with a 0.05 golden ratio deviation. Its tapering tower and wing-inspired angles mirror the spirit of flight it honors—with proportions that nearly nail the golden ratio.
So whether you’re just sightseeing or looking for decor inspo, these mathematically beautiful landmarks are worth the frame.
10 Most Beautiful U.S. landmarks
- Independence Hall—Philadelphia, PA
- Hoover Dam—Boulder City, NV
- Spaceship Earth (Epcot)—Bay Lake, FL
- Gateway Arch—St. Louis, Missouri
- Lincoln Memorial—Washington, D.C.
- United States Capitol—Washington, D.C.
- Trinity Church—Boston, Massachusetts
- The Alamo—San Antonio, Texas
- Cloud Gate—Chicago, Illinois
- The White House—Washington, D.C.