The USA is known for its impressive national parks, which offer an immense variety of landscapes, animal species and natural wonders. The largest of these parks impress with their sheer size and the pristine wilderness they preserve. Here are the ten largest national parks in the U.S. that delight nature lovers and adventurers alike.

1. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska – 53,321 km²

The Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the USA and is located in southern Alaska. The park includes spectacular glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and active volcanoes. Visitors can experience hikes, glacier tours and wildlife observations here. With its rugged, untouched wilderness, the park is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers.

2. Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska – 30,448 km²

The Gates of the Arctic National Park is located north of the Arctic Circle and is one of the most remote national parks in the USA. It offers an unspoiled Arctic wilderness with tundra, mountains and rivers. There are no roads or marked hiking trails, so visitors are completely on their own. The park is a dream destination for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure.

3. Denali National Park, Alaska – 19,186 km²

Denali National Park is home to Denali, the highest mountain in North America at 6,190 meters. The park impresses with its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose and caribou. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking scenery along the only park road or venture into the wilderness on hikes. Denali is a symbol of Alaska’s untamed nature.

4. Katmai National Park, Alaska – 14,877 km²

Katmai National Park is famous for its brown bears and the impressive Brooks Falls, where visitors can watch the bears salmon fishing. The park is also home to the Valley of the Ten Thousand Smoke Plumes, a unique volcanic landscape. Kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing are popular activities here. Katmai offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural wonders.

5. Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada – 13,650 km²

Death Valley National Park is the hottest and driest national park in the United States. The spectacular desert landscape includes sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful rock formations. Visitors can explore highlights such as Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and Zabriskie Point. Despite the extreme conditions, the park is a place full of beauty and unique experiences.

6. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska – 13,044 km²

Glacier Bay National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its imposing glaciers and fjord-like coastline. The park is a paradise for kayakers and boaters who want to enjoy the spectacular landscapes from the water. Wildlife sightings, including whales, sea otters, and eagles, are another highlight. The untouched nature makes Glacier Bay an unforgettable experience.

7. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho – 8,983 km²

Yellowstone is the oldest national park in the world and is known for its geothermal wonders such as geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The famous Old Faithful geyser and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring attract millions of visitors every year. In addition to the geological attractions, the park is home to diverse wildlife, including bison, wolves, and bears. Yellowstone is a symbol of the protection and preservation of nature.

8. Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska – 6,758 km²

Kobuk Valley National Park is known for its huge sand dunes that rise in the middle of the Arctic tundra. The Kobuk River meanders through the park and is a popular spot for canoeing. Visitors can also watch the migration of the caribou that pass through the area every year. The combination of desert and arctic wilderness makes the park unique.

9. Everglades National Park, Florida – 6,105 km²

Everglades National Park protects one of the largest tropical wetlands in the world. The area is known for its mangroves, swamps, and abundant wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and rare bird species. Visitors can explore the Everglades by airboat, kayak or hike. The park is an important habitat and a fascinating destination for nature lovers.

10. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – 4,926 km²

The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. The spectacular gorge was sculpted by the Colorado River over millions of years and offers breathtaking views. Visitors can hike along the rim or down into the gorge, take boat tours on the river, or take guided tours. The Grand Canyon is a must-see for any nature lover.

Las Vegas is known for its impressive hotels, which are often attractions in their own right. Each offers unique themes, luxurious accommodations, and plenty of entertainment options. Here are the top ten hotels in Las Vegas that are particularly appreciated by travelers.

1. The Venetian Resort

The Venetian Resort is an iconic luxury hotel known for its recreation of the Italian city of Venice. With canals, gondolas and a detailed replica of St. Mark’s Square, you feel like you’re in Europe. The hotel offers over 7,000 suites, fine dining and a world-class spa. It is also known for its large casino and its shopping opportunities in the Grand Canal Shoppes.

2. Bellagio

The Bellagio is world-famous for its impressive water fountains, which dance in a spectacular light and music show. The elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms, first-class restaurants and a renowned casino. The Bellagio is also home to the famous Gallery of Fine Arts, as well as the Botanical Garden. Guests particularly appreciate the romantic atmosphere and the central location on the Las Vegas Strip.

3. Caesars Palace

Caesars Palace is a classic in Las Vegas and transports guests to the glamorous world of ancient Rome. The hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites, numerous gourmet restaurants and an impressive casino. Caesars Palace is also famous for its shows with world-famous artists and the famous “The Colosseum” stage. The pool area, inspired by Roman architecture, is another highlight of the resort.

4. Wynn Las Vegas

The Wynn Las Vegas is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city and is known for its modern, elegant facilities. The rooms offer stunning views of the Strip and are equipped with high-quality interiors. In addition to a renowned casino, the hotel has a first-class golf resort and a large spa. Particularly impressive is the Lake of Dreams, a fascinating water and light show in the hotel garden.

ARIA Resort & Casino

ARIA Resort & Casino is a modern luxury hotel known for its innovative technologies and minimalist style. The spacious rooms are equipped with smart technology that provides guests with maximum comfort. The resort offers world-class restaurants, a lively bar scene and a large casino. The central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Strip.

6. MGM Grand

The MGM Grand is one of the largest hotels in the world and offers entertainment at the highest level. The hotel has a huge casino area, a large pool area and numerous restaurants. It is particularly known for its shows, including the spectacular performances of Cirque du Soleil. With its wide range of entertainment and leisure options, the MGM Grand is a favorite with families and groups.

7. Mandalay Bay

Mandalay Bay is a tropical paradise at the southern end of the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel has one of the best pool areas in Las Vegas, including a man-made beach and wave lagoon. The resort is also home to the Shark Reef Aquarium, a popular attraction for families. With its luxurious rooms, world-class restaurants and an expansive casino, Mandalay Bay is a premier destination.

8. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas

The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas is a trendy hotel known for its modern design and young, dynamic guests. Rooms are stylishly decorated and offer balconies overlooking the Strip — a rare feature in Las Vegas. The hotel has several award-winning restaurants, a lively nightclub scene, and an impressive casino. The pool area is particularly popular, relaxing during the day and exciting in the evening.

9. Paris Las Vegas

Paris Las Vegas brings the flair of the French capital to the Nevada desert. The hotel features a replica of the Eiffel Tower, which also serves as a vantage point for stunning views of the Strip. The romantic rooms are decorated in Parisian style, and the restaurants offer classic French cuisine. The casino and shopping facilities in the hotel complete the experience perfectly.

Luxor Hotel & Casino

The Luxor is one of the most famous themed hotels in Las Vegas, which stands out for its impressive pyramid shape. The large beam of light that shines into the sky from the roof of the pyramid is an iconic landmark of the city. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a large casino and entertaining shows. Particularly impressive is the Egypt theme, which is reflected in the entire architecture and decoration of the hotel.

The United States of America is known for its diversity of culture, landscapes, and urban centers. Here we introduce you to the ten largest cities in the country, each with its own history and uniqueness.

New York City, New York

New York City is the largest city in the USA and is known worldwide as “The Big Apple”. With over 8.8 million inhabitants, it is a global center for finance, art and culture. The city offers world-famous attractions such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and Times Square. Art lovers can visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Of course, the grandiose skyline and a visit to the Empire State Building are not to be missed. A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge offers breathtaking views.

Los Angeles, California

The City of Angels, Los Angeles, is the second largest city in the country with around 4 million inhabitants . It is famous for Hollywood and the film industry, but also for its beautiful beaches such as Santa Monica and Malibu. Visit the Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can go behind the scenes of film productions. The Getty Center campus attracts art lovers, while Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, also known as “The Windy City“, is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and has a population of around 2.7 million. The city is known for its impressive architecture, including the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center. Discover Millennium Park with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (“The Bean”) or experience a boat tour on the Chicago River to learn about the history of architecture. Sports fans can catch a Chicago Bulls or Cubs game, while foodies should try the famous Chicago Deep Dish Pizza.

Houston, Texas

With a population of about 2.3 million, Houston is the fourth largest city in the USA and the heart of the Texas energy industry. The city is famous for the Space Center Houston, where visitors can discover the world of space travel. The city has a vibrant arts scene with the Museum District, which includes numerous galleries and museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts. Houston also offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from Tex-Mex to international cuisine. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Buffalo Bayou Park.

Phoenix, Arizona

With around 1.7 million inhabitants , Phoenix is the largest city in the desert region of the USA. Arizona’s capital city boasts sunny weather and spectacular desert landscapes. The Desert Botanical Garden offers fascinating insights into the flora of the Sonoran Desert. Other highlights include Camelback Mountain, which delights hikers and nature lovers alike, and the Heard Museum, dedicated to Native American art and culture. Golf enthusiasts will find numerous first-class golf courses in Phoenix.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, also affectionately known as “Philly”, has about 1.6 million inhabitants. The city is famous for its historical significance as the cradle of American independence. Visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, two significant symbols of U.S. history. Art lovers will appreciate the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which also houses the iconic “Rocky Steps”. Be sure to try a classic Philly cheesesteak and explore Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the United States.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, with a population of around 1.5 million, is known for the Alamo, a historic site deeply rooted in American history. The San Antonio River Walk, a scenic walk along the river, is a popular destination for tourists, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Missions of San Antonio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a fascinating insight into the history of the area. Families will love the San Antonio Zoo and SeaWorld.

San Diego, California

San Diego is located on the Pacific coast and has a population of around 1.4 million. The city offers a pleasant climate and beautiful beaches such as La Jolla and Coronado. Attractions include the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park with its museums and gardens, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and boat trips make San Diego a nature lover’s paradise.

Dallas, Texas

Dallas, another Texas metropolis, has about 1.3 million inhabitants. The city is known for its striking skyline and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which documents the events surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Art and culture lovers will enjoy the Arts Districts, with its galleries and the Dallas Museum of Art. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science offers exciting exhibits for the whole family.

San Jose, California

San Jose, located in the heart of Silicon Valley, has a population of around 1 million. The city is a center for technology and innovation. Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation, which vividly presents the developments in technology. The Winchester Mystery House, an architecturally unique building, entices with its mysterious history. Nearby Alum Rock Park offers nature recreation and spectacular hiking opportunities.

Tulsa, the second-largest city in the state of Oklahoma, is often referred to as the “Heart of Oklahoma.” This vibrant metropolis offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and modern lifestyle. Visitors can expect a city that is proud of its roots in the oil industry, but at the same time offers a wide range of art, music and outdoor activities. In this article, we introduce you to the highlights of Tulsa and give tips for getting there and excursions in the area.

Attractions in Tulsa

Downtown Tulsa is known for its impressive Art Deco architecture. A walk through the Deco District immerses visitors in the 1920s, when the city boomed due to the oil industry. Particularly worth seeing are the Philtower Building and the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, two outstanding examples of this style. Art lovers will get their money’s worth at the Philbrook Museum of Art. Housed in a former mansion of the Phillips family of oil magnates, the museum showcases an impressive collection of European, American, and African art. The manicured gardens of the estate also invite you to linger. The Gilcrease Museum is another cultural gem of Tulsa. It houses the world’s largest collection of artwork and artifacts related to Native American history and culture. For families, visit the Tulsa Zoo or Gathering Place, an award-winning park considered one of the best urban parks in the United States. There are playgrounds, hiking trails, cafes and even a small lake. Music plays an important role in Tulsa, especially blues and jazz. The Woody Guthrie Center and the Bob Dylan Center are dedicated to two icons of American music history. Regular live concerts in bars and clubs such as Cain’s Ballroom also make the city a special destination for music fans.

Getting to Tulsa

Tulsa is easily accessible via Tulsa International Airport, which is served by several major airlines. There are no direct flights from Europe, but travelers can arrive via hubs such as Dallas, Chicago or Atlanta. Alternatively, you can travel by rental car from nearby cities such as Oklahoma City or Dallas. Both are about two to four hours drive away and offer some interesting stops along the way. The best way to get around the city is by renting a car, as public transport is limited. However, many sights are centrally located and can be easily reached on foot. However, for longer distances or excursions in the surrounding area, a car is indispensable.

Attractions around Tulsa

The Tulsa area offers numerous opportunities for day trips. A highlight is Keystone State Park, about 30 minutes west of the city. Here, visitors can hike, camp, fish, or simply enjoy the views of scenic Keystone Lake. Another worthwhile destination is Route 66. Tulsa is located right on this legendary road that once connected America from east to west. Historic gas stations, nostalgic diners and small museums along the route invite you to travel back in time. Particularly worth seeing is the Blue Whale of Catoosa, an iconic attraction not far from Tulsa. Those interested in nature should visit the Ozark Mountains, located about an hour east of Tulsa. This region offers spectacular landscapes, numerous hiking trails and the opportunity to discover the regional flora and fauna. Also nearby is Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees, a popular spot for water sports and recreation. For those interested in culture and history, visit the Cherokee Heritage Center in Tahlequah, about an hour from Tulsa. Here, visitors can learn more about the history and culture of the Cherokee, one of the largest indigenous groups in the United States.

Was Tulsa King filmed in Tulsa?

Yes, the series “Tulsa King” was actually filmed in several locations in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Filming locations include:

• Tulsa International Airport: This is where the arrival of protagonist Dwight “The General” Manfredi in Tulsa was filmed.
• Center of the Universe: This acoustically unique spot in downtown Tulsa served as the backdrop for certain scenes.
• The Mayo Hotel: This historic hotel has been used for various scenes.
• South Boston Avenue: This street in downtown Tulsa appears in several scenes in the series.
• Triangle Coffee Roasters: Now known as Coracle Coffee, this café served as a filming location for certain scenes.

Result Tulsa is a city that surprises with its mix of history, culture and modern lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling through the Art Deco districts, enjoying art and music, or exploring the surrounding nature, Tulsa has something for everyone. With its central location in the USA and good connections, it is also an ideal starting point to discover the diversity of Oklahoma. Plan your next trip to Tulsa and be amazed by this charming city!  

Admittedly, Idaho may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking about an upcoming vacation in the USA. The US state, located in the northwest of the country, has no internationally known metropolis. The capital of Idaho, the city of Boise, which has a population of only 235,000, has often never heard of European visitors before their trip to Idaho. For nature lovers who like it lonely, secluded and still largely untouched, Idaho is a true insider tip. Only 1.8 million inhabitants are spread over an area of 217,000 square kilometers. The state is therefore only sparsely populated. But there are spectacular natural monuments and eternal expanses to explore in Idaho. Part of the well-known Yellowstone National Park is also located in the U.S. state of Idaho.

Start your trip in the capital Boise

If you want to travel to Idaho, you usually arrive in the capital Boise, at least if you are a tourist traveling directly from Europe. Otherwise, Idaho can of course also be reached by rental car as part of a round trip through the USA via the well-developed network of highways, or via domestic flights that depart from major American cities. Before you go further into nature, it is worth stopping off in Boise for a few days and breathing in real US flair there. At the Idaho State Museum, visitors can learn all about the state’s history. Furthermore, Boise has several art museums and galleries to offer.

The Boise Art Museum focuses on Impressionist painting and modern art objects of all kinds. A haven of American street art is the Freak Alley Gallery, which is not an art museum in the true sense of the word. Rather, street art can be admired directly on the street. The best way to do this is to walk through the Freak Alley Gallery district and explore the elaborate spraying of the building. The Old Idaho Penitentiary Site is also interesting. This is the city’s historic prison, which is now open to visitors. During guided tours, you can learn details about the history of the building and American criminal law. If you arrive in winter, you can ski on the city’s local mountain at Shafer Buttle. The Bogus Basin ski area is only about two kilometers from the gates of the city. In the summer, the Boise Zoo and several beautifully landscaped parks beckon, such as the Idaho Botanical Garden and Julia Davis Park.

Die Craters of the Moon

A visit to the Craters of the Moon is not only an absolute must for every tourist in Idaho, but for many it is also the highlight that they will talk about long after their trip. The Craters of the Moon are a volcanic landscape characterized by lava flows that have long since solidified. Caves had formed in the still hot lava at that time, which now represent crater-shaped formations in which black sand can be found. Many of these lava caves can be explored as they are high enough to walk through easily. The area can be visited all year round. The visitor centre has information on hiking trails that run through the Craters of the Moon. In the summer months, many visitors like to stay overnight at the adjoining campsite. In winter, these are converted into cross-country ski trails. Then there are even guided snowshoe tours on the extensive area.

Idaho is all about water

Idaho is a very water-rich state. A popular attraction for all water enthusiasts is the Shoshone Falls, which are located in the area of Yellowstone National Park. The Shoshone Falls, which were named after the Shoshone Indian people who once lived here, are exorbitant waterfalls that can easily compete with the even more famous Niagara Falls. From a height of 65 meters, the water rushes down into the Snake River. In earlier times, numerous gold panners romped around here. In the neighboring canyons, gold was dug into the earth. Today, the area attracts mainly recreational athletes, because the Snake River is wonderful for kayaking and rafting.

Around Redfish Lake, many hikers are grouped in addition to water lovers. Because the surrounding landscape area is one of the most sought-after hiking areas in all of Idaho. Especially backpackers who love the original are happy to be guests here, because the infrastructure around the lake can be described as rather simple. On the other hand, you will meet only a few people and will find the best conditions here to experience starry nights that are not impaired by civilizational light sources. Around the small town of McCall, hot springs are grouped in which you can bathe.

Winter sports in Idaho

Idaho is home to some of the most frequented ski resorts in the USA. The towns of Ketchum, Stanley and Sun Valley are the local winter sports destinations. The Bald Mountain ski area, named after the 2,789-metre-high mountain of the same name near Ketchum, has 75 slopes of all levels of difficulty. The Schweitzer Mountain Resort is only about 70 kilometers from the Canadian border in the north. A particularly large number of families and beginners can be found here, as the slope conditions are particularly designed for this group of visitors. Silver Mountain Resort offers skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer. Kelly Canyon Resort and Pomerelle Mountain Resort are home for snowboarders.

Important information about Idaho

Geographical location

Idaho is located in the northwestern United States and borders six states: Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana, as well as the Canadian province of British Columbia. The capital Boise is located in the southwest of the state and is the economic and cultural center of Idaho.

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Landscape and nature

Idaho is characterized by an impressive variety of landscapes:

• Rocky Mountains: This majestic mountain range criss-crosses the state and offers numerous opportunities for mountain sports and hiking.
• Lakes and rivers: The state has over 3,000 natural lakes and rivers, including the Snake River, which feeds Shoshone Falls.
• Sawtooth National Recreation Area: This region encompasses 217,000 hectares of pristine wilderness with rugged peaks, alpine lakes and abundant wildlife.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument: A unique volcanic landscape reminiscent of a lunar landscape.

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Climate

Idaho’s climate varies greatly depending on the region. While summers in the valleys are warm and dry, winters in the mountains can be icy and snowy. This variety of climates makes Idaho a year-round destination, whether it’s for summer hiking or winter sports.

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Famous Sights

1. Shoshone Falls: Often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” these stunning waterfalls are higher than Niagara Falls and a popular destination.
2. Sun Valley: One of the first ski resorts in the USA, known for its luxurious accommodations and world-class slopes.
3. Hell’s Canyon: The deepest river canyon in North America offers spectacular views and adventures such as whitewater rafting.
4. Old Idaho Penitentiary: A historic prison in Boise that now serves as a museum and offers a fascinating insight into the history of the penitentiary system.

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Outdoor activities

Idaho is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Some of the most popular activities include:

• Hiking and mountaineering: The Appalachian Trail and countless other trails offer challenges for all skill levels.
• Fishing and kayaking: With its many rivers and lakes, Idaho is a hotspot for anglers and water sports enthusiasts.
• Winter sports: Ski resorts such as Sun Valley and Bogus Basin offer prime opportunities for skiers and snowboarders.
• Wildlife observation: Moose, eagles, and bears are just a few of the animals that can be spotted in Idaho’s wilderness.

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Cuisine

Idaho is best known for its potatoes, but the local cuisine has much more to offer. Try:

• Huckleberries: These wild berries are a delicacy in Idaho and are used in jams, desserts, and even cocktails.
• Trout (trout): A popular fish, fresh from the rivers of Idaho.
• Farm-to-table restaurants: Boise and other cities offer a thriving scene of sustainable restaurants that use local ingredients.

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Culture and history

• Nez Percé Indian: Idaho was the historic tribal territory of the Nez Percé, whose heritage is honored in reservations and museums.
• Gold rush: In the 19th century, Idaho was hit by a gold rush that attracted many settlers.
• Boise Art Scene: The capital, Boise, offers a vibrant cultural scene with galleries, festivals, and an opera house.

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Interesting facts about Idaho

• Idaho is the largest producer of potatoes in the United States.
• The state has more hot springs than any other state in the US.
• Idaho’s motto is “Esto Perpetua” (May it last forever).

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Arrival and Getting Around

The capital city of Boise has an international airport that is served by many major cities in the United States. Rental cars are the best way to explore the vast regions of Idaho.

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Sustainable tourism

Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of nature. Numerous organizations are working to preserve Idaho’s pristine landscapes for future generations. These include programs for the restoration and protection of rare animal species.