Here at Time Out we love our national parks (I’m writing this from Firefall Ranch in Yosemite), and time spent in nature. Here, we can recharge our batteries, step away from the demands of everyday life and appreciate how sunlight falls on a rockface and how a forest trail can emanate a scent better than any other fragrance in the world. A new list of the 25 most popular national parks (and places managed by the National Park Service), according to users of the travel app Visited, has been released. Although some of the expected heavy hitters are here—Yellowstone and Yosemite—you’ll find the top three include some spots we might not usually associate with the national parks system.
The first on the list is the Grand Canyon. This monumental mile-deep cleft in the earth spans 277 miles and really must be seen to be understood. This is an iconic spot unlike any other in the U.S. and figures on many people’s bucket lists for good reason.
Second on the list is the Washington Monument, which is not exactly a park but is managed by the National Park Service. It’s the tall obelisk you see at the national mall in Washington, D.C. It stands 555 feet tall and honors George Washington. Entry is free but must be reserved in advance to take the elevator to the top.
The third most visited spot is President’s Park, better known as the White House. Who knew the White House was considered a national park?! To get inside, you must schedule a tour through your Congressperson or embassy, but you can visit the Visitor Center and explore the park.
The top 25 most visited national parks:
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Washington Monument
- President’s Park (the White House)
- National Mall
- Golden Gate National Recreation Area
- Yosemite National Park
- Zion National Park
- Yellowstone National Park
- Gateway Arch National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Everglades National Park
- Boston National Historical Park
- Death Valley National Park
- Presidio of San Francisco
- Arches National Park
- Redwood national and state parks
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Horseshoe Bend National Military Park
- Sequoia and King’s Canyon National Parks
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Grand Teton National Park
- Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
- Independence National Historical Park
- Gettysburg National Military Park