6 Awe-Inspiring Places to See in the Southwest USA

The Southwest USA is full of incredible places to see. Honestly, the American Southwest deserves its own section of your bucket list. Keep reading for some of our favorites, but keep in mind, this only scratches the surface. Planning a trip yourself? Check out our full 7 day itinerary for the Southwest USA and find even more ideas for what to see on your road trip.

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Our Top Picks for Incredible Places to See in the Southwest USA

1. Death Valley National Park, California

View in Death Valley National Park in the Southwest USA — Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes in Death Valley National Park

The scenery in Death Valley National Park will leave you wondering how it escaped your bucket list for so long. This is one of those destinations we underrated for far too long. We were fortunate enough to spend one night here, but this national park certainly deserves another visit. From salt flats to sand dunes to incredible sunrise views, this park has no shortage of breathtaking scenery.

2. Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Valley of Fire State Park in the Southwest USA — Fire Wave Trail in Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is an absolute gem and is conveniently located just 1 hour outside of Las Vegas. From the beginning we knew this was one of those special places we hoped to revisit. If you’re wondering what is so special about Valley of Fire that it consistently ranks at the top of the best state parks in the United States, check out our day in Valley of Fire State Park. The pictures truly don’t do this place justice.

3. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

View of Bryce Canyon National Park in April. — Bryce Canyon National Park

Our visit to Bryce Canyon National Park was just a short stop on our Southwest USA road trip, but just a glimpse had us convinced we’d need to return. This place feels like you’re wandering in another world, and the snowy peaks even in April added to the other-worldly ambiance. Hiking this gorgeous park at sunrise or sunset is definitely on our bucket list!

4. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park in the Southwest USA — View of Zion National Park from the Angel’s Landing Trail

Zion National Park is home to some bucket list worthy hikes. We were fortunate enough to hike Angel’s Landing, and it did not disappoint. Next on our list? The Narrows. Seriously, one visit to this place could never satisfy.

5. Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

After a busy road trip through the Southwest USA, Horseshoe Bend is a welcome short stop. An easy walk to the viewpoint rewards you in the stunning view you see above. Even on a cloudy day, it is easy to see why this gem near Page, Arizona earns a spot on many Southwest bucket lists.

6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

View of Grand Canyon National Park from The Abyss Viewpoint

Nothing quite prepares you for that first view of Grand Canyon National Park. Even if you don’t have time to hike into the canyon, the many viewpoints around the rim will leave you speechless. Just when you think the view can’t get any better, the angle changes, and it’s like you’re seeing a whole new wonder. The views at sunrise and sunset are even more special.

Have You Experiences the Southwest USA Yourself?

Let us know if you’re planning a visit in the comments below! See something we missed? We’re always looking for new places to add to our own bucket list. Another trip to the American Southwest is a must for us someday.