18 Famous Landmarks: Huge Statues, Waterfalls and More

Standing tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of the Western Hemisphere. Gifted by France in 1886, "Lady Liberty" has welcomed generations of immigrants arriving by sea.

You can catch breathtaking views from Battery Park or take a ferry for an up-close experience. The statue is also one of the most-photographed landmarks in the world and a must-see in the list of most-visited tourist attractions.

This towering skyscraper in New York City, one of the world's financial capitals, offers panoramic views of New York Harbor. Its Art Deco design has made it one of the most famous landmarks and a popular tourist attraction. The best time to visit is during sunset when the city lights begin to sparkle.

Paris wouldn’t be Paris without the Eiffel Tower. Constructed in 1889, it remains one of the most-visited tourist attractions globally. Whether viewed from the Champ de Mars or the Trocadéro, it’s a jaw-dropper.

To see it at its best, visit in the early evening when golden light illuminates its iron lattice. It’s a staple on any list of iconic landmarks.

This colossal natural wonder carved by the Colorado River is split into the South Rim and North Rim. The South Rim is more accessible and offers sweeping vistas of the canyon’s layered rock. It’s located within Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most-visited national parks in the U.S.

The Grand Canyon isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a stunning testament to geological history.

Spanning the entrance to San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge is not just a feat of engineering but also one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

Painted in International Orange, it connects San Francisco to Marin County and is often blanketed by fog, creating stunning visuals. Alcatraz Island nearby adds historical depth to the area, making this a top tourist destination in California.

Snaking across hills and plains, the Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles (21,196 kilometers). Built to protect ancient China from invasions, it’s now a top UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders.

Its rocky hill overlooks and temple complexes give you a deep sense of historical significance. The Great Wall represents the legacy of an ancient city and the resilience of civilizations.

Jutting into Sydney Harbor like sails catching the wind, the Sydney Opera House is a marvel of modern architecture.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is both a performing arts center and a major tourist magnet. It's a must-see for anyone exploring the capital city of New South Wales and a highlight among landmarks in the world.

High in the Andes of South America, the ancient city of Machu Picchu reveals Incan ingenuity. This historic site, often shrouded in mist, sits above the Urubamba River valley.

As one of the new Seven Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it draws visitors from around the globe and often referred to as the Lost City of the Incas.

Carved into a rocky hill in South Dakota, this national monument features the faces of four U.S. presidents, including George Washington.

Located near Rapid City, it combines artistry with patriotism and is a standout among American landmarks. The site is a testament to historical achievements and draws visitors seeking both inspiration and education.

In the heart of Italy, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has defied gravity since the 12th century. Though it leans due to unstable foundation soil, engineers have stabilized it enough to welcome tourists. It’s part of a larger temple complex that includes the cathedral and baptistery.

This leaning tower has become an emblem of resilience in architectural history.

Comprising the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, Niagara Falls is one of North America’s most famous natural wonders.

Straddling the U.S.-Canada border, it’s a popular tourist attraction and honeymoon hotspot. The falls represent natural beauty in its rawest form and are part of many travel bucket lists.

Once home to a notorious prison, Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay now welcomes tourists curious about its storied past.

Not far from the Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco is known for, this historic site also offers unmatched views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. Its legacy as a former penitentiary makes it one of the more unique tourist attractions.

Home to the largest religious monument (St. Peter’s Basilica), Vatican City is both a spiritual center and a cultural treasure trove. As the official residence of the pope, it’s packed with Renaissance art and religious significance. It remains a vital destination in the Western world for those exploring spiritual and artistic heritage.

A maze of limestone islands in the Pacific Ocean, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its natural beauty. Tourists can kayak through caves and explore hidden beaches. It’s a top pick among natural wonders in Southeast Asia and showcases Vietnam’s aquatic splendor.

Located in Bolivia, Salar de Uyuni stretches over 4,000 square miles (10,360 square kilometers), making it the world's largest salt flat.

In the rainy season, it becomes a giant mirror. It’s a surreal destination for anyone fascinated by unique landscapes. The area is one of the world's most extraordinary and photographed landmarks.

Set in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is renowned for its turquoise lakes and mountain scenery. It’s a haven for outdoor lovers and a gem among the planet's natural wonders. A visit offers not just recreational activities but also a deep appreciation for preserved wilderness.

This temple complex in Beijing served as the imperial palace for centuries and remains a standout among historic sites. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a glimpse into the ancient world and the bureaucratic backbone of Chinese dynasties.

Located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean, Easter Island is famous for its colossal statues known as moai. These mysterious figures are carved from volcanic tuff and represent one of the world’s most curious cultural relics, emphasizing the island's importance as a historic site.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.