The 30 Most Famous Landmarks in the Northeast Region of the USA

The Northeast region of the United States is one of the oldest territories in the country, and it stands to reason that some of the country’s most famous landmarks are found in this area.

From historical artifacts like the Declaration of Independence and famous statues like the Lincoln Memorial to cultural outposts like Fenway Park and beautiful natural expanses like Acadia National Park, the Northeast is home to some seriously spectacular landmarks.

Eleven states constitute the Northeast region, including New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maine, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maryland, plus the District of Columbia (or Washington DC). 

Continue reading to discover the 30 most famous Landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

Table of Contents

1. The Statue of Liberty – Liberty Island, New York

Statue of Liberty

Perhaps the most famous landmark in the Northeast region of the United States is the Statue of Liberty. This stately green statue is recognized around the world and has become an icon for the entire country. 

Situated on the aptly named Liberty Island of New York, the copper statue was gifted to the United States from France in 1886 and has since come to represent freedom and the welcoming of immigrants. 

2. The White House – Washington D.C.

The White House

The White House is another one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States, and it’s also one of the most recognizable buildings in the entire country. 

The White House is both the workplace and the residence for the sitting president of the United States and has been since the presidency of John Adams in 1800.

That being said, many upgrades to the house and grounds have taken place over the years, and the original building would be unrecognizable to us today. 

3. Ellis Island – New Jersey

Ellis Island

Tucked into the New York Harbor, Ellis Island is one of the country’s and the Northeast region’s most famous landmarks.

While it is no longer in use today, the island was once home to the busiest immigration station in the United States. 

Ellis Island was in use between 1892–1954 and served more than 12 million immigrants. The building is now used as a museum of immigration, and the island is also home to an old hospital, which is now also a museum. 

4. Brooklyn Bridge – New York, New York

Brooklyn Bridge

New York’s Brooklyn Bridge is a classic American icon. Not only is it one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region, but it’s also one of the most famous bridges in the US.

The Brooklyn Bridge has been connecting travelers between Manhattan and Brooklyn since 1883, and in 1964 it was dubbed a national historic landmark. 

The bridge boasts six lanes for car traffic, an elevated lane for cyclists, and a wide promenade in the center for pedestrians.

If you plan on walking across the mighty Brooklyn Bridge, make sure you have plenty of time to spare – tourists and New Yorkers alike flock here year-round, and the bridge is often overcrowded. 

5. Fenway Park – Boston, Massachusetts

Fenway Park

Home of the renowned Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States.

Baseball is as American as apple pie, and the Red Sox have been capturing the hearts of fans around the world for over a century.

Fenway Park was built in 1912, making it the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball.

Significant renovations were completed in 1934, but some quirky aspects of the stadium remain, including the Green Monster in left field, Pesky’s Pole, and “The Triangle.”

6. Lincoln Memorial – Washington D.C.

Lincoln Memorial

Built in honor of the 16th president of the United States, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the Northeast region’s most famous landmarks.

The memorial consists of a 19-foot statue of Lincoln sitting inside a stately Greek-like temple. 

The memorial is easily recognizable, and since its dedication in 1922, viewing the statue has become a rite of passage for anyone who visits Washington D.C.

7. Central Park – New York, New York

Central Park

Stretching across 843 acres between the Upper East and Upper West Sides of Manhattan, Central Park is another one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

The park first opened to the public in 1858, and more land was eventually added and opened in 1876.

This urban park is the most visited of its kind in the country, with around 42 million visitors stopping by for a stroll each year. Central Park is also the most filmed location in the entire world. 

8. Yale University – New Haven, Connecticut

Yale University

Situated in the coastal city of New Haven, Connecticut, Yale University is one of the most renowned Ivy League universities in the world, and it’s also one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States.

Founded in 1701, Yale is one of just nine Colonial Colleges established before the American Revolution. Needless to say, the original campus has changed drastically from its original form.

Today, Yale’s campus spans about 260 acres across downtown New Haven and is known for its stunning Collegiate Gothic architecture (and its high entrance standards!). 

9. Liberty Bell – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 

Liberty Bell

Previously known as the State House Bell or the Old State House Bell, the Liberty Bell is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

This 2,000-pound piece of history was rung during the first national reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8th, 1776.

This was not the first time the Liberty Bell was rung, however. The infamous crack you see today was actually created after its arrival at the new state house of Philadelphia (today known as Independence Hall). 

10. Niagara Falls – New York 

Niagara Falls

The thundering Niagara Falls sits between the border of New York and Ontario, Canada, and is one of the most recognized waterfalls worldwide. Not surprisingly, it is also one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

The falls are made up of three different waterfalls. Horseshoe Falls (also known as Canadian Falls) is the largest and sits in the middle of the US and Canada.

The smaller American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls are both located on the US side of the border. 

There are viewing platforms in both countries, and millions of people make their way to visit the impressive Niagara Falls each year. 

11. Plymouth Rock – Plymouth, Massachusetts

Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rock is both one of the most historic and one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States.

While the plain boulder marked “1620” may not seem like much to look at, it is a marker for where pilgrims first landed after making the journey from Europe.

The rock itself was not placed and marked until about 100 years after the first landing, but the spot where the boulder is placed is thought to be accurate of the original landing spot. 

It’s not hard to see why Plymouth Rock is so popular, and millions of visitors make the pilgrimage each year to see this little piece of history. 

12. Mount Washington Hotel – Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Mount Washington Hotel

Perched in the foothills of the scenic mountain by the same name, the Mount Washington Hotel is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

This grandiose hotel has been hosting presidents, celebrities, and poets since its opening in 1902, and the spectacular Mediterranean Revival architecture is something you simply have to see to believe. 

The inside of the hotel is just as impressive, with white marble columns, hewn stone fireplaces, and old-school charm that is nearly impossible to replicate.

The views of the towering mountains from the hotel are also a huge draw for Mount Washington Hotel. 

While it is no longer an outpost solely for the rich and famous, be prepared to pay a pretty penny if you hope to stay overnight in this iconic hotel!

13. Times Square – New York, New York

Times Square

Head back to the “Big Apple” for another one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast.

New York’s Times Square is all about bright lights, Broadway shows, and flashy billboards, and it’s one of the busiest pedestrian areas in the world. 

It’s also one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world, with over 50 million people stepping foot into Times Square each year. 

14. Acadia National Park – Maine 

Acadia National Park

The natural beauty of Acadia National Park is acclaimed across the country, and this 49,075-acre expanse is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

The park is situated along Maine’s central coast. It encompasses about half of Mount Desert Island, parts of Isle au Haut, portions of 16 other outlying islands off the coast, and the tip of the Schoodic Peninsula.  

Acadia National Park is one of the best spots for camping in the US, but it’s also a popular place for hiking, paddling, and swimming.

You can even catch the country’s earliest sunrise from the park’s stunning Cadillac Mountain. 

15. Independence Hall – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Independence Hall

Independence Hall is one of the most historic buildings in the United States. Not surprisingly, it’s also one of the most famous landmarks in the country’s Northeast region. 

Many important conversations were held in this building, including discussions about the contents of the Declaration of Independence and the constitution. 

Independence Hall was completed in 1975 and was first used as the Pennsylvania State House and later the capital for the Province and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Today it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public for guided tours.

16. Freedom Trail – Boston, Massachusetts

Freedom Trail

The Boston Freedom Trail is not just one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeastern region of the United States, but rather a pathway that winds around some of the most historical icons in the country. 

The 2.5-mile trail leads visitors around 16 different landmarks, including graveyards, churches, houses, and monuments.

The Freedom Trails begins at Boston Commons in downtown Boston and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown. 

17. Old Round Church – Richmond, Vermont

Old Round Church

Not to be confused with the Old North Church of Boston, the Old Round Church of Richmond is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States.

It is one of the most well-preserved buildings from its time (1812) and was dubbed a National Historic Landmark in 1996 for its rarity and exceptional preservation.

The church was used for religious services and town meetings for many years, and today it is open to the public during the summer and fall and for weddings and other special events.  

18. Washington Monument – Washington D.C.

Washington Monument

The Washington Monument sits adjacent to the Lincoln Memorial, so it’s entirely possible to see two of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast on the same day.

The 555-foot obelisk is the tallest predominantly stone structure and is made from marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss. 

Construction of the Washington Monument began back in 1948, but the obelisk was not completed until 1888 due to a lack of funding. 

The monument became an iconic symbol of the Civil Rights Movement after the famous “I Have a Dream Speech” was held in this area in 1963. 

19. Empire State Building – New York, New York

Empire State Building

Named for the “Empire State” in which it is located, the Empire State Building is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States.

This massive, 102-story building was once the tallest in the world, and it remains one of the most iconic skyscrapers even though its height has since been exceeded. 

Construction of this famous building began in 1930 during the darkest days of the Great Depression.

Today, the Empire State Building offers impeccable views of all five of New York City’s boroughs and the New York Harbor beyond.

Beware that the open viewing platforms are out in the open air and not for the faint of heart! 

20. Mark Twain House – Hartford, Connecticut

Mark Twain House

The Northeast region of the United States is full of literary importance and iconic landmarks to commemorate some of the most famous writers of all time.

The Mark Twain house sits in Hartford, Connecticut, and was home to Samuel Langhorne Clemens and his family for nearly 20 years. 

Mark Twain was ever only a pen name for Clemens, but the home in which he lived is named for the author.

The red-brick Victorian mansion still stands in all its glory today and features a museum filled with all things Mark Twain. 

21. Portland Head Light – Portland, Maine

Portland Head Light

Standing sentinel over Maine’s Casco Bay, the Portland Head Light is one of the most famous historical landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States.

The lighthouse dates back to 1791, making it the oldest in the state. 

It is still in use today and is a beacon for barges and other water traffic entering the busy Portland Harbor. 

22. Capitol Building – Washington D.C.

Capitol Building

Situated in Washington DC’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, the United States Capitol is the meeting place of Congress and the home of the country’s legislative branch. 

The stately building has been in use since 1800, though it has been enlarged and modernized over the years. Before the Capitol Building was in use, Philadelphia’s Independence Hall was where congress convened. 

23. Coney Island – New York, New York

Coney Island

Coney Island is a peninsular neighborhood located in the southwest section of Brooklyn, New York.

While the neighborhood is iconic all by itself, the amusement parks and beaches that sit by the water area are really what make Coney Island one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region. 

Coney Island’s first amusement park (Steeplechase Park) opened back in 1897 and was followed by two more parks – Luna Park in 1901 and Dreamland in 1904.

While these old-school amusement parks have long since closed their doors, others have popped up to replace them, including the current Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park.

24. Old State House – Boston, Massachusetts

Old State House

While there are tons of famous historic landmarks littered all around Boston, the Old State House really stands out among the bunch.

Dating back to the 1770s, the Old State House was the home of a Merchant’s Exchange, and later went on to serve as the seat of the colonial government and then the highest court in the Massachusetts colony.

But the Old State’s House’s real claim to fame is that it was the setting of the infamous Boston Massacre – the event that is said to have kickstarted the American Revolution.  

25. Harriet Beecher Stowe House – Brunswick, Maine

Harriet Beecher Stowe House

Tucked into the town of Brunswick, Maine, the Harriet Beecher Stowe House is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

While it may not look like much more than a house from the outside, this building is where Stowe wrote the famous Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

This book depicted the deplorable conditions of slavery and was the catalyst of the abolitionist movement that eventually led to the Civil War. 

26. Grand Central Terminal – New York, New York

Grand Central Terminal

Not only is Grand Central Terminal one of the most beautiful transportation hubs in the world, but it’s also one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

The intricate interior and distinctive architecture have earned Grand Central Terminal numerous designations, including a spot on the National Historic Register.

The terminal opened back in 1913, and today it is one of the busiest train stations in North America. 

27. Cape Cod National Seashore – Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod National Seashore

The stunning shores of Cape Cod have been a protected piece of land since 1961 when president John F. Kennedy dubbed the area a National Seashore.

The protected area encompasses over 43,000 acres of ponds, woods, towns, and beachfront along the Atlantic shores of Cape Cod.

Visitors flock to the scenic shores of Cape Cod year-round, but this peninsula is especially busy during the summer months.

You can work on your tan from the long stretch of sand, meander along one of the bike trails, check out the Dune Shacks of Peaked Hill Bars Historic District, or take in one of the famous sunsets from Race Point Beach. 

28. The National September 11 Memorial Museum – New York, New York

The National September 11 Memorial Museum

Situated at the former location of the Twin Towers in New York City, the National September 11 Museum and Memorial commemorates the 2,977 deaths of the September 11, 2001, attacks. 

Though it is a somber place, the memorial is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast.

The memorial was planned almost immediately after the attacks, and a competition was held to decide on the design.

Israeli American architect Michael Arad’s design won out, and the project was completed about 10 years after the attacks on September 12, 2011.

The museum hosts a collection of stories, artifacts, and interactive experiences. 

29. The Newport Mansions – Newport, Rhode Island

The Newport Mansions

Dating back to the Gilded Ages, the Newport Mansions are a great example of how the well-to-do used to spend their hard-earned cash.

Newport’s collection of seaside mansions is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. 

There are about 12 mansions located in and around Newport, most of which date back to the late 1800s.

The wealthiest families in the country made these mansions their summer vacation “cottages,” and today some of these historic homes are open for public viewings. 

If you have time to visit just one mansion while in Newport, make it the Breakers – the most grandiose of the twelve mansions.

30. Fort McHenry – Baltimore, Maryland

Fort McHenry

Best known for its crucial part in the War of 1812, Fort McHenry is one of the most famous landmarks in the Northeast region of the United States. This coastal fort sits on Locust Point, which is now a neighborhood in Baltimore.

During its heyday, it defended US shores from the British Navy and successfully guarded Baltimore Harbor. Fort McHenry was also in use during World War I and II.

Today, the fort is a designated National Monument and Shrine and can be toured by the public.