11. Nantucket, Massachusetts
The island of Nantucket, 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, brims with stunning scenery. It is rather touristy, but for good reason. Its beaches offer dramatic views of the ocean and dunes. From views of sailboats to its picturesque lighthouses and charming towns, the New England seaport of Nantucket is easily one of America’s most scenic places.
12. White Sands, New Mexico
You’d be forgiven if your thought this was some exotic deserts in a far off land, but White Sands National Monument is located near Alamogordo, New Mexico. It is aptly named, as the dramatic dunes are indeed snow white from powdery gypsum crystals. Note, the area is near some military bases and occasionally closed for safety reasons, but there are some trails and Ranger-guided nature walks to explore throughout the unique landscape. You can even go sledding down the sandy hills.
