Do you prepare for travel by Googling “the most Instagrammable spots” and insert where you’re going? Please say it’s not just me. If part of your road trip prep includes searching for this important information, I’m about to make your life a whole lot easier by giving you a list of the most Instagrammable spots in all 50 states.
The U.S.A. has a lot of great places to photograph and share on social media. And, let me tell you, it was nearly an impossible task to come up with just one Instagrammable spot per state. I hope my choices give you some travel inspiration beyond the “typical” sights and landmarks. Are you ready to get on the road and get that perfect snap?
If I haven’t included your favorite photo-worthy spot, let us know in the comments section or tag TravelingMom and use the hashtag #TMOM on social media so everyone can see it. Again, it was really hard to narrow the list of photo opportunities to just one place per state.
Alabama
Alabama has a lot to offer: beautiful beaches and history. Do yourself a favor and check out downtown Montgomery one of these days. But this is my favorite from my 10 or so trips to Alabama during my lifetime:
The Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach pairs art, architecture, and picture-perfect views of the water. If you’re looking for a unique spot to take pictures that will be different from what’s on everyone else’s “beachstagram,” then carve out some time to check this place out.
Alaska
Emerald Lake, located near the town of Carcross, kind of takes my breath away.
Alaska is still on my bucket list, but my friend Kristen was kind enough to share her photo with me. I love the hues of the water. I’m so fascinated by this picture because I’d have never guessed it was taken in Alaska. Would you?
Arizona
I think the entire state of Arizona is pretty, but the Hole in the Rock at Papago Park wins out here.
This is located in Tempe, adjacent to the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden. Hole in the Rock is a moderate hike that’s close to civilization and offers plenty of parking. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset.
Arkansas
Bentonville is the corporate HQ for a little store you might have heard of – Walmart. But it’s so much more.
This area of the country is beautiful during the fall and spring. Bentonville is definitely a great place for a drive – and to take pictures.
California
Although the Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, Disneyland and the Golden Gate Bridge should definitely be on your radar of most Instagrammable spots in California, our pick is Laguna Beach:
Meg loves Laguna beach because it provides a scenic spot for where the cliffs meet the sea. We agree: these blue waters give off total Moana vibes.
Colorado
Colorado is a tough one. I almost feel like it should be allowed two on the list of most Instagrammable spots in the United States because there’s such a difference between the seasons.
Skiing and snowboarding are a big part of why people visit Colorado but there’s so much more to love about the state. Insider Families is one of my favorite accounts to follow on Instagram and her snow pictures never disappoint. If you’re not used to winter driver, the roads in spring and summer would probably be more RV trip friendly.
Connecticut
If you follow the original TravelingMom, Kim Orlando, on Instagram (and you should!), you’ll see her post beautiful scenery from Tod’s Point often.
Tod’s Point is a trail near Greenwich, Connecticut. It’s definitely on my list of spots to see when I finally make it to New England.
Delaware
My good friend Adeina has been to 49 of the 50 states. She’s taken some incredible pictures – a handful of the snaps you see here are from her travels. My favorite “Adeina pictures” are her cheesing in front of the state welcome sign, like this selfie. You’ve gotta have fun, right?
Florida
The obvious would be something Disney World related, right? Well, if you’ve read this far, you probably know that’s not where we’re going with this list. Disney World might be the most Instagrammed place in Florida. But. Have you ever been to Hollywood? Hollywood, Florida, that is.
Breeze and her family took the mural tour and found all 24 murals. Nothing makes your Instagram feed pop like a great shot in front of a mural. Still planning to include the major theme parks on your trip to Florida? RVing is an inexpensive and comfortable way to do that.
Georgia
Marietta tops the list of most Instagrammable spots in Georgia. A suburb of Atlanta, it’s got murals galore like this one here:
In addition to street art, Marietta is home to the sets of Stranger Things, Walking Dead and The Avengers. Basically an Instagrammer’s paradise. You can potentially save money and deal with fewer crowds by staying in Marietta versus Atlanta. Marietta is more RV friendly and it is an easy drive into the city.
Hawaii
This is the quintessential Maui snap:
If you haven’t been to Hawaii, I’m sure it’s on your bucket list. This makes you want to swim with sea turtles. We know it.
Idaho
Government buildings can turn into great Instagram photos. This isn’t quite what I’d expect from an Idaho gram, though. Does it surprise you?
My friend Adeina spent a lot of time in the beautiful city of Boise last year and talked about how cool and hip it was. There’s definitely some drool-worthy architecture and urban areas but the capitol building wins today.
Illinois
I promised my friend Lisa that I would not use any photographs of the Chicago area. She’s convinced me that I’d make the entire state mad if I did that. If you’re a baseball fan or maybe just a fan of the movie A League of Their Own, this one’s for you:
While Chicago is a gold mine of many Instagrammable spots (The Bean, Wrigley Field, Navy Pier), there are a couple of other cool spots in Illinois that I recommend checking out if you’ve got time. Cahokia Mounds Indian Ruins and the world’s largest ketchup bottle are also in Illinois if you really want to get that ‘gram that no one else has. Illinois is a great road trip state if you look beyond Chicago.
Indiana
Playgrounds always make great Instagram photos. Check out this cool playground in Indianapolis:
If you’re road tripping with kids, those playground stops can be super important. A driving trip is a lot more pleasant when your kids can burn off their energy on a regular basis.
Iowa
Weird is Instagrammable. If you saw a tree of hula hoops, like this one near Anamosa, would you stop?
One of the great things about traveling by RV is that you’ll see all kinds of cool things along your route. Like a tree of hula hoops!
Kansas
The Wareham Opera House is one of the 100-year-old (or close) event venues throughout Kansas. This one is in Manhattan, Kansas, home of the Kansas State Wildcats.
Kentucky
When you think of Kentucky, you think of horse racing and whiskey. You would not be wrong.
But, look for that Instagrammable moment anywhere you go. This picture was taken in Shaker Village in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. I’m pretty sure horse racing and bourbon was not far from this picture, but our eyes are completely focused on the symmetry of the stairs.
Louisiana
There are lots of Insta-worthy spots in the Big Easy.
When in New Orleans, you probably want to take pictures of Mardi Gras floats or the Rue de Bourbon sign. If you can handle a slightly creepy vibe, check out one of the above-ground cemeteries. This is Lafayette Cemetery Number 3, which is much less crowded than Lafayette Cemetery Number 1.
Maine
If you’re driving through Maine, you’re probably going to stop and take a picture of a lighthouse. That’s kind of a given, right?
The only way this picture could have been more perfect would be if it captured a pair of L.L. Bean boots and someone holding a lobster.
Maryland
There are all kinds of cool photo ops in Baltimore. They have a thriving harbor area with lots of shops and dining. This is a snap of the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel:
If you’re doing a driving trip, Washington D.C. is an easy commute from Baltimore. Public transportation is easy to navigate. You may find Baltimore more RV friendly and cheaper than D.C.
Massachusetts
Any place can be “Instagram worthy” if you approach it from a unique angle.
We know there’s a lot to see and photograph in Boston, but the view through this wrought iron railing offers a really cool perspective. Park that RV and walk around to hone in on these photo-worthy moments.
Michigan
Sometimes, the lighting is just as important as what you’re taking a picture of. Check out this sunset capture of the Detroit History Museum:
Minnesota
My friend from Minnesota begged me not to list the sculpture of the spoon with the cherry. I was just in the Twin Cities and I didn’t get a picture of the famous spoon bridge, but I did spend quite a lot of time in the Mall of America.
I sought out this cotton candy specifically for Instagram. If cotton candy isn’t your thing, the mall is full of most Instagrammable spots.
Mississippi
Mississippi offers a lot of diversity. They have scenic beaches, lush deltas, casinos. Hey, casinos can make for some really Insta-worthy moments. But this one goes to the top of my list because Elvis. Of course.
I love this picture of Elvis’ childhood home. It’s a good reminder that humble beginnings don’t dictate your potential. There are some lovely lakes around Tupelo and you could definitely get creative with camera angles when photographing this building. Going lower, higher, or focusing on a detail such as a chain link in the porch swing might make your picture stand out.
Missouri
There’s a lot of beautiful scenery in Missouri. There’s also a lot of great city shots you can take, such as Busch Stadium or the famous arch. I went in a different direction here:
Uranus, Missouri, is undoubtedly one of the most Instagrammable spots in the state. Obviously.
Montana
Most people would probably choose a shot from Glacier National Park for the most Instagrammable place in Montana. While Glacier certainly offers some breathtaking views, I’ll counter with the beauty of the badlands near Glendive.
Nebraska
True, much of Nebraska is fields and prairie, but Lake McConaughy offers a different set of scenery.
“Lake Mac” is the largest lake in Nebraska and boats 100+ feet of shoreline. If you need a “beachstagram” shot in – of all places – Nebraska, then this is your place.
Nevada
While there are lots of Instagrammable spots in Nevada, we went with this one:
Nothing says “Insta worthy” like a bunch of retired neon signs in Las Vegas, right?
New Hampshire
I have not yet explored New England. New Hampshire‘s greenery and waterfalls compel me to move it up the list, although it is already pretty high up there.
Shown here, The Basin in the White Mountains. If you’re road-tripping through New Hampshire, this is a very kid-friendly hiking spot.
New Jersey
New Jersey has miles upon miles of rolling farmland with fields of sunflowers to see. Still, visit the shore. Get a frozen custard and check out the boardwalk.
New Mexico
New Mexico was a toughie. There’s artsy Santa Fe and hot air balloons. I went in a different direction. Aliens.
Roswell is a tiny town in the middle of the dessert that’s not a convenient on the way stop to…well, anywhere. To go here on purpose requires a love of alien culture or just weird stuff in general. As you can see, the city is true to an alien culture. I’m pretty sure Roswell has the only McDonald’s with an alien sign out front and I’m sorry to say I didn’t get a good picture of that.
New York
Sure, there are lots of ‘gram-worthy moments in New York City (Central Park) and Niagara Falls. I give you…Rochester.
The George Eastman Museum has SO MANY photo-worthy spots, both inside and out. Rochester, in general, has some lovely picture spots.
North Carolina
This scenic state is the perfect place to get out and move. Improve your altitude for some amazing scenic shots. This view of Asheville shows the scenery but doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of what Asheville has to offer in the way of an arts scene and some great food!
North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is huge and there are a lot of Instagrammable spots to choose from. Hint: any spots with a buffalo in the background are photo-worthy. The sunflowers run a close second.
Ohio
This sign leaves no doubt where you are!
This photo was taken at Edgewater Park, although if you’re a true Ohioan you might know there are three such signs in Cleveland.
Oklahoma
Sometimes, buildings tell a story. This one certainly does that.
The Murrah Federal Building once stood on this spot. In its place is a museum and monuments dedicated to the people who lost their lives in the Oklahoma City bombing.
Oregon
If you love climbing, hiking, or just beautiful views, Smith Rock State Park in Oregon is the place to go.
Pennsylvania
The Very Hungry Traveler’s Instagram feed always makes me want to visit Philly and shows me how little I really know about the city:
Sarah alludes to loving her city in the springtime. Don’t the flowers provide the perfect frame for Swann Memorial Fountain downtown?
Rhode Island
Newport Wharf is a great place to snap epic boat pictures year ’round. Aren’t these colors dreamy?
Rhode Island might be tiny but it is big on the beautiful scenery.
South Carolina
Boneyard Beach is only accessible by boat but check out this view:
I say this shot (and the sense of peace Marie describes) is worth the extra effort. If you are traveling by RV you won’t be able to take the RV onto the island but there’s places nearby you can park before you hop on the boat.
South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is easily one of the most photographed spot in the country. Sometimes, we’re going to take the pictures of the places everyone else takes pictures of:
But, we love how Jamie put her own fun spin on things.
Tennessee
If you need that “Insta cliche” shot of you walking across a suspension bridge, here’s a great one for you:
The Gatlinburg Sky Bridge isn’t for the faint of heart. Either that, or I’m a big chicken. Probably the latter. There’s a nice observation deck if you don’t want to cross the bridge and a bar on the other side as incentive if you do.
Texas
This one was a toughie. This is my home state and it’s a BIG state with a lot of ground to cover. I ultimately decided on this one:
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is located near Amarillo (home to the Cadillac Ranch and a SERIOUS contender for this list) and it’s my favorite place in the entire world. Palo Duro Canyon is the world’s second-largest natural canyon in the United States. I’ll let you guess what the first is.
But seriously – from the fields of bluebonnets to the River Walk to gorgeous Texas Hill Country – this was a hard choice because I think my state is the most beautiful. Yes, I’m biased. You can RV through Texas for weeks and not leave the state.
Utah
That feeling when a place leaves you breathless?
Utah is full of scenic beauty and beautiful architecture. This was a hard choice. We’d love to know about some of your Utah favorites. Whatever you decided to do in Utah, this is an exceptionally driveable. Utah is great for RV travel.
Vermont
There’s more to Vermont than just maple syrup and Ben & Jerry’s.
There so much beautiful scenery to capture in the state of Vermont, but we couldn’t resist sharing this fiery sunset over Lake Champlain.
Virginia
Yorktown beach, just outside of Jamestown, is one of the first English settlements in what is now Virginia.
This is another Instagrammable spot that shows how lighting and time of day can make a great picture into a wow picture.
Washington
I have never been to Washington. There are so many things I want to see there and this is one of them:
This set of sculptures is located in central Washington, about 130 miles from Seattle. Walking among the horses and viewing from different angles will give you a different perspective. I think this one is worth the extra drive time.
West Virginia
They don’t call it “almost heaven” for nothing. Blackwater Falls State Park is known for its gorgeous scenery; however, most of the state is pretty.
If you’re willing to venture off the standard route, there’s an old covered bridge near Phillipi which is said to be the oldest covered bridge in the United States. It’s a strong memory from my childhood; I’ve searched far and wide for a picture and have come up empty. If you have one, I’d love to see it. I’m currently planning a trip back to West Virginia just for pictures. I was born there and didn’t live there long, but it has some nostalgia attached to me.
Wisconsin
There’s more to Wisconsin than just cheese and the Packers.
We love Jenn’s shot at the Green Bay Botanical Garden. Sure, you can get lots of urban shots in Green Bay, but if you’re visiting during the spring or summer, do yourself a favor and take a detour.
Wyoming
You can pretty much take a picture of anything in Wyoming and have it be Instagrammable.
The rearview mirror perspective is always interesting. This is a pretty easy shot to set up and it makes people think you’re fancy.
Hopefully these images of beautiful (okay, maybe just interesting, because Uranus, Missouri, probably isn’t anyone’s idea of beauty) places in the United States inspire you to hit the road and make your own Instagram memories.
Family Fun at Beaches Near Wilmington, North Carolina
