Kansans epitomize resilience, finding happiness in life’s simple pleasures. Their Great Plains offer a lesson in appreciating what’s nearby—if Kansans can find beauty in their surroundings, it serves as a reminder for us all to fully embrace where we live.

While Illinois might appear unremarkable in parts, it compensates with its stunning Lake Michigan skyline in Chicago and the rugged sandstone formations in Southern Illinois’ Garden of the Gods. Don’t overlook the breathtaking Mississippi River views along the state’s winding western edge.

Indiana’s Dunes National Lakeshore at the northern tip offers a vibrant setting and picturesque views of Lake Michigan. Towards the south, the rolling hills around Bloomington provide a serene escape. However, the areas in between are best enjoyed for their tranquil drives through endless cornfields.

Some might argue against this low ranking for Oklahoma because it offers a fair share of diversity. Its panhandle extends towards New Mexico, the southern region evokes scenes from Larry McMurtry novels, and the eastern border along Arkansas surprises with vibrant green hills and lush Mid-American forests. Oklahoma might just be more picturesque than you anticipated, but it’s fair to say that your expectations were initially modest for a reason.

Mississippians might currently be relieved to find themselves out of the bottom rankings in a state comparison, thanks to their vibrant Gulf Coast. Despite charming magnolias and delightful Southern vistas, Mississippi is just a short stretch of pristine beaches and swamps from being the “Indiana of the South.”

Ohio’s reputation as flat and dull is not entirely unfounded, yet its picturesque southern hills, bordering Kentucky and West Virginia, often go unappreciated. While its Lake Erie shoreline can’t compare to Big Sur, the state’s extensive coastline offers spectacular views, often enjoyed from exhilarating roller coasters.

Nebraska’s beauty, though understated, is truly captivating with its expansive skies and rolling hills. Notable natural landmarks like Toadstool Geologic Park and Chimney Rock stand out, though it may lack the dramatic vistas of states further west. Nebraska’s vast landscapes and the Platte River support a diverse ecosystem, crucial for migratory birds like the sandhill cranes.

North Dakota is often mistakenly tagged as bleak and barren, overshadowed by harsh winters and industrial impacts. Yet, it’s home to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a stunning showcase of prairies, mesas, and roaming buffalo, deserving more recognition than it typically receives.

Missouri’s vast central area serves as a bridge between the agricultural focuses of Illinois and Kansas. The southern region, however, is a gem with its hilly terrain near Lake of the Ozarks and Branson, ideal for scenic drives and fishing. The state’s eastern forests and rivers provide ample recreational spaces, with standout spots like Johnson Shut-Ins State Park.

Connecticut, often caught in New York’s shadow and disowned by some New Englanders as “half Yankees territory,” struggles to claim its place among picturesque Northeastern states. Mostly flat, its coastal towns and streams near the Berkshires offer tranquility, but its suburbs and urban areas tend to dominate, and the Connecticut River collects debris as it nears the ocean.

Sending a postcard from Delaware might surprise recipients with its beauty, prompting them to exclaim over scenes they didn’t expect from such a small state. While compact, Delaware offers scenic rural drives and pleasant beaches, making a memorable impression.

Louisiana is famed for New Orleans, but beyond the city, it offers superb fishing, duck hunting, and memorable swamp tours. However, its geographical position at the Mississippi’s mouth doesn’t favor its beaches or wetlands, and its scenery is perhaps best left to the birds.

Despite being dominated by suburban sprawl and infrastructure, New Jersey offers more than meets the eye with its rolling hills, glacial lakes, pleasant beaches, and areas like the stunning Delaware Water Gap. New Jersey’s natural beauty, though often hidden, is significant.

Alabama distinguishes itself among Gulf Coast states with notable elevations near Birmingham and the famed white sands of its southern beaches. While not the most dramatic landscape, Alabama’s blend of natural beauty and Southern hospitality is undeniably appealing.

Pennsylvania is known for its picturesque hills, Amish buggies, and vibrant forests that burst into a kaleidoscope of golds, yellows, and oranges each fall. Despite its size, Pennsylvania lacks the “wow” factor compared to other eastern states. It has a portion of the Appalachian Mountains, but they don’t quite captivate like those in neighboring areas. While skiing in the Poconos is an option, it’s often bypassed for better-known resorts.

Despite its diminutive size, Rhode Island punches above its weight. It’s nearly true that half its area is made up of beautiful beaches—Block Island and the coastal cliffs of Newport are prime examples. However, its small scale limits its grandeur, with notable exceptions like the grand Breakers mansion. Nature could have indeed been more generous.

For Floridians, a striking moment might be entering Georgia and seeing gas prices plummet. Apart from its Southern charm marked by moss-draped trees and pristine southern beaches, Florida’s scenic highlights are modest. The “mountains” north of Atlanta may impress Floridians used to flat landscapes, but they pale beside the Smoky Mountains or Appalachians further afield.

New Hampshire may still mourn the loss of the Old Man of the Mountain, but it remains a scenic powerhouse with the majestic White Mountains, dramatic flume gorges, and expansive lakes like Winnipesaukee. Sadly, its southern regions resemble suburban Connecticut, albeit with fewer liquor stores.

This state, straddling cultural boundaries between the Midwest, the South, and Appalachia, revels in its geographical diversity. From rugged eastern mountains to the extensive Mammoth Cave and rolling hills, it’s a visual feast. The vivid bluegrass pastures, whether truly blue or not, invite onlookers to pause and enjoy the view.

South Carolina’s charm extends beyond the historic streets of Charleston to the natural wonders of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, featuring the impressive Raven Cliff Falls and stunning overlooks. Its serene coastal beaches and picturesque low country drives under oaks draped in Spanish moss round out its appeal.

Maryland effortlessly combines all the elements of scenic beauty, from the mountainous west reminiscent of West Virginia to the abundant shorelines along the Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay, boasting nearly twice as much coast as Texas along the Gulf. Its pastoral farmland and vineyards add to the picturesque setting.

Massachusetts stands at a crossroads in New England, flanked by less remarkable neighbors to the south and more rugged ones to the north. Attractions like Cape Cod’s seashore, the Berkshires, and Pioneer Valley highlight some of the best fall foliage in the nation. Yet, Middlesex County may lack the charm suggested by its name.

Being somewhat isolated offers its perks. The southeastern region might not captivate unless you favor swamps and meadows, but moving north reveals hidden hills, streams, and caves. The Buffalo River, an undammed national treasure, and the Ouachita Mountains’ endless landscapes, dotted with springs and quaint towns, present a quieter, untouched America.

Nevada is often reduced to “Las Vegas and the quick drive to California.” While much of the state is barren and was once used for nuclear testing, places like Red Rock Canyon, Ruby Valley, and Valley of Fire State Park offer stunning escapes from the urban frenzy. Lake Tahoe and Death Valley, though shared with California, are highlights worth celebrating.

Virginia, entering the top half of this list, may not boast beaches seen in commercials, but those in Hampton Roads are underrated gems. Its central hills and wine country embody why Virginia is dubbed “for lovers.” Driving through Shenandoah National Park during autumn offers one of America’s premier scenic experiences.

Dubbed “Canada Lite,” this state offers a rugged North Shore with lighthouses and dense forests perfect for hiking and exploring waterfalls. The Boundary Waters come alive in summer, and the wild Lake Superior shoreline and the glacial formations near Interstate State Park remind visitors of its northern charm.

Wisconsin is more than prairies and dairies. With extensive shorelines along two Great Lakes and over 15,000 lakes, it surpasses even Minnesota in aquatic beauty. The Apostle Islands and Door County’s idyllic countryside complement the diverse landscapes along the Ice Age Trail, offering a blend of natural beauty across the state.

Texas’s vastness guarantees diverse landscapes, from the night skies over Big Bend National Park to the desert beauty of West Texas and the flowering fields of Hill Country. Although it may not excel in any single category, Texas offers a comprehensive range of landscapes, embodying the expansive American West.

South Dakota, often overlooked, offers more than Mount Rushmore. The Black Hills, Spearfish Canyon, and the Badlands showcase a stunningly diverse terrain, making it a hidden gem. Even its flatter eastern parts boast attractions like Palisades State Park, a testament to its underrated beauty.

Traverse this state from west to east, and the scenery steadily improves. From the Delta to the pastoral central regions and the majestic Smoky Mountains, its landscape diversity ensures a scenic surprise around every corner, offering a wealth of picturesque settings just off the highway.

West Virginia may not be everyone’s final destination, but its breathtaking landscapes are unforgettable. Famous among base jumpers for its spectacular gorges and hosting America’s newest national park, the state’s scenery of rolling ancient hills and cascading rivers over limestone makes a lasting impression. The Monongahela National Forest typifies the rocky, forested terrain that has been a playground for children across America, from Maine to Missouri. This often overlooked region embodies the best of the eastern U.S.

Florida has transformed its landscape from flat swamplands to miles of artificially enhanced beaches lined with towering condos and resorts, attracting the infamous ‘Florida Men’ and spring breakers. Despite these alterations, places like the underwater paradise of Biscayne National Park and the white sands of the Keys remain stunningly beautiful. With a bit of cleanup, Florida could rank higher for its natural beauty.

Often eclipsed by the allure of New York City, the state of New York offers a diverse array of natural landscapes that rival any other. From three coastlines along Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the Atlantic, to the Catskills and Adirondacks, and scenic features like the American side of Niagara Falls, New York’s efforts in conservation have preserved vast public lands that offer both wild beauty and a haven for wildlife, supported by a robust public ownership of land.

Idaho might surprise many as part of Yellowstone National Park lies within its borders. Home to the stunning Sawtooth Mountains and the snowy peaks around Coeur d’Alene, Idaho offers some of the best outdoor activities in the nation. A journey along the Snake River through picturesque meadows and mountains reveals why Idaho is perhaps America’s most underrated state for scenic beauty.

Maine’s residents pride themselves on their spectacular natural surroundings, particularly if you venture beyond the Portland area. With its dramatic coastline, thousands of islands, over 3,000 miles of rugged beaches, and the majestic Acadia National Park, Maine is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, embodying the quintessential northeastern wilderness.

New Mexico’s landscapes served as a dramatic backdrop in “Breaking Bad,” but the state’s natural beauty stands out even without cinematic enhancement. From the red cliffs and vast mesas to the mountainous regions of Taos and the unique White Sands National Park, New Mexico offers a stunning variety of landscapes that make any journey through the state a memorable one.

Vermont’s lush, rolling green hills, dotted with clear mountain streams and quaint villages, epitomize picturesque beauty, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season. While lacking ocean coastline, Vermont’s idyllic landscapes offer nearly picture-perfect vistas that seem to come straight out of a storybook, making it a beloved destination despite its geographical limitations.

North Carolina claims the title of the most scenic state on the East Coast, with a diverse range of landscapes from the stunning beaches of the Outer Banks to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This variety offers a unique experience of shifting scenery as one travels from the coast deep into the mountainous heart of the state.

Montana presents an imposing natural beauty with its vast Rockies, large lakes, distinct seasons, and two iconic national parks: Yellowstone and Glacier. The expansive state offers wide-open spaces rarely found elsewhere, providing a sense of solitude and unspoiled nature that invites exploration and awe.

Wyoming’s landscapes are so vast and varied that even the spectacular Grand Tetons are sometimes overshadowed by the famous Yellowstone National Park. Beyond these well-known spots, the state offers high plains, haunting rock formations, diverse mountain ranges, and some of the clearest views of the Milky Way in the U.S., making it a haven for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Arizona dazzles with its desert landscapes and iconic sites like the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. Beyond these, it boasts lesser-known attractions such as the Superstition Mountains, the Petrified Forest, and the dramatic meteor crater, all contributing to its reputation as a top destination for natural beauty.

Michigan, with the longest freshwater coastline in the U.S., showcases an extraordinary range of natural beauty from the Upper Peninsula’s forests to the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. The state’s numerous lakes and rugged landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration and appreciation of nature.

Oregon transitions beautifully from the rugged Californian border through diverse landscapes that include windswept beaches, lush valleys, and dramatic mountain peaks. Home to iconic sites like Crater Lake and Cannon Beach, Oregon’s natural beauty is as varied as it is stunning, making it a prime destination for those who appreciate the great outdoors.

Washington state is not just Seattle’s dynamic skyline; it’s also the dramatic Cascades, lush Olympic rainforests, and serene San Juan Islands. From desert landscapes to dense forests, Washington’s diverse natural beauty offers something for every nature lover.

Colorado’s landscapes are breathtaking, with over 50 peaks rising above 14,000 feet and numerous alpine lakes. Its natural beauty is so compelling that even the relatively flat eastern parts can’t detract from the state’s overall allure, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking spectacular mountain scenery.

Utah’s vast array of iconic landscapes, from the arches and canyons of Moab to the Bonneville Salt Flats, showcases its unique natural beauty. With no coastline to boast of, Utah still captivates with its diverse and dramatic landscapes, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Alaska offers an unparalleled natural wilderness, from the icy fjords of Kenai to the vast Denali peaks and the sprawling tundra. Its remoteness adds to its allure, with wildlife and natural scenery that are both majestic and untamed, offering adventurous visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Hawaii’s islands provide a spectacular array of landscapes, from lush jungles and volcanic craters to stunning beaches and steep cliffs. Each island offers its own unique beauty, making Hawaii a truly exceptional place that surpasses even the loftiest expectations.

California’s diverse landscapes range from the serene beaches along its southern coast to the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert and the iconic redwoods and Yosemite Valley in the north. This variety, coupled with its vibrant cities and rich cultural sites, makes California a unique and endlessly fascinating state for travelers seeking natural beauty and more.