There are plenty of interesting experiences that are expected when you’re tall and traveling. For example, establishing a decent vantage point at which you can check out different tourist attractions just comes with the territory of being tall. However, one thing that almost never happens is encountering something that is just so large that it literally towers over you. The United States is home to many of the world’s most beautiful, extravagant, and gargantuan monuments. It’s always exciting to explore a new city and uncover all of its secrets while on the ground, but what about taking that curiosity to new heights?
Check out our list of the tallest monuments in the U.S. that are so tall they’ll make you forget your own height.
Gateway Arch (St. Louis, MO)
This world-famous monument stands at an impressive 630 feet high. Those who gain access to the top of the monument will uncover breathtaking views of the city; on a clear day, people are able to see up to 30 miles in every direction. Be aware, for tall riders, getting to the top of the monument will be a tighter fit than most.
Attractions near the Gateway Arch
Riordan Tours – Haunted History Tours: This is a fun and interesting way to learn a bit about St. Louis’ rich history and culture. From May 1 to October 31, tourists are able to walk around the oldest part of St. Louis with David Riordan. Riordan is a well-known storyteller whose roots in St. Louis can be dated back to 180 years ago. While on the tour, you’ll be told tales of strange and unsettling events which range from the Great St. Louis fire to the Exorcism that inspired a horror film.
If you plan your visit from November 1 to April 30, there are many other ways to explore the history of the city. Whether that be via self-guided tours or city exploration passes – the options are endless.
City Garden: Take a break from the big city by going for a stroll in this lovely little park. This picturesque garden, located in the center of downtown St. Louis, is the perfect escape, with beautiful works of art for the public to enjoy.
Washington Monument (Washington, D.C.)
This iconic monument is a dedication to America’s first president, and is one of Washington D.C.’s most recognizable structures. The Washington Monument towers over the nation’s capital at 555 feet tall. Despite it only being the third tallest monument in the U.S., the Washington Monument is actually the tallest structure in the district.
Attractions near the Washington Monument
The National Mall: Since you’re in D.C., you’re going to be running into a lot of historic structures that you’ve probably only ever seen in a textbook prior to arriving in D.C. The National Mall is a lush landscaped park that houses many well-known national monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. The U.S. Capitol can be seen to the east of the National Mall while the White House is located in the north.
Mount Vernon: Right outside DC is George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon. Here you can take tours of his plantation home, where many of his belongings are still kept in pristine condition. Here, you can also explore the Washington-theme museum and pay your respects at George and Martha Washington’s tomb.
DC Rollergirls: So, you’re in DC, that means you’re going to check out all of the government buildings, all the Smithsonians, Georgetown, and even Mount Vernon. A good way to experience something new and exciting is to go check out a roller derby match.
One World Trade Center (New York City, NY)
This distinctive structure on New York City’s skyline is the main component of the new World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. The One World Trade Center towers over New York City at an impressive 1,776 feet high, earning its spot as the sixth tallest building in the world.
432 Park Avenue (New York City, NY)
This 1,396 foot skyscraper is the tallest residential tower in the Western hemisphere. It’s known for its sleek architecture, with a 1:15 slenderness ratio. The residential tower overlooks Central Park in the heart of Manhattan.
The Empire State Building (New York City, NY)
There isn’t a soul around who doesn’t recognize this iconic building. At 1,250 feet tall, this 102-story skyscraper in Midtown, Manhattan was once the tallest building in the world after its completion in 1930. Today, this Art Deco skyscraper offers guests amazing views of the Big Apple at the 86th and 102nd floors.
Nearby Attractions in NYC
The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum: The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a place of remembrance, honoring those who lost their lives in the tragic September 11 and February 26 attacks.
The Oculus: This stunning shopping mall attracts hundreds of thousands of shoppers every day because of its sleek, modern aesthetic and the variety of high-end fashion boutiques it houses.
Willis Tower (Chicago, IL)
Originally referred to as the Sears Tower, this 110-story, 1,450 foot skyscraper was once known as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere; it lost that title in 2014 when the One World Trade Center was completed however, that does nothing to diminish the Sears Tower’s impressive size.
John Hancock Building (Chicago, IL)
The 100-story, 1,128-foot tall skyscraper located along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile offers gorgeous views of Chicago’s skyline and even Lake Michigan. On the 94th floor, you’ll find the 360 CHICAGO Observation deck and a ride that will tilt you out over the 94th floor.
Attractions in Chicago
Millennium Park: This park provides a green space in the midst of the busy city. The centerpiece of the park, Cloud Gate, is a very popular attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Navy Pier: Located along Lake Michigan, this 3,300-foot-long pier hosts a few popular tourist attractions that range from Seadog Ventures to the Fifth Third Bank Winter Wonderfest that runs from December to January to Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze.
