Explore the diverse geography, regions, and landmarks of America
The United States is the third-largest country in the world by land area, spanning from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and from the Arctic Circle to the Gulf of Mexico. Its geography is incredibly diverse, featuring mountains, deserts, forests, lakes, and coastlines. The physical landscape of the United States has not only shaped the nation's boundaries but also its history, economy, and character.
Stretching across 3.8 million square miles, the U.S. encompasses almost every climate zone imaginable. From the frozen tundras of Alaska to the tropical paradise of Hawaii, and from the arid Mojave Desert to the lush temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, the variety is staggering. This geographical diversity is one of the reasons why the U.S. is often referred to as a "microcosm of the world."
The oldest and most densely populated region. Features the Appalachian Mountains, major cities like New York and Boston, and a mix of forests and urban areas. The geography here is marked by irregular coastlines, rocky soil (in New England), and the vast megalopolis stretching from DC to Boston.
States: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
Known for its warm climate, diverse landscapes, and rich history. Includes the Gulf Coast, Southern Appalachians, and major agricultural areas like the Mississippi Delta. The geography ranges from the swamps of Louisiana to the rolling hills of Kentucky.
States: Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Louisiana, Florida
America's "heartland" with vast prairies, the Great Lakes, and major agricultural production. Known for its friendly communities and industrial heritage. The Great Lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—contain 21% of the world's surface fresh water.
States: Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota
Features deserts, canyons, and Native American cultural heritage. Includes the Rocky Mountains and some of America's most spectacular natural wonders like the Grand Canyon. This region is characterized by its arid climate and stunning red rock formations.
States: Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas
Home to dramatic mountain ranges, vast forests, and beautiful coastlines. Includes both arid deserts and temperate rainforests. The Pacific coast offers steep cliffs and sandy beaches, while the interior features the high peaks of the Rockies and Sierra Nevada.
States: Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, California, Alaska, Hawaii
Mountain ranges define the U.S. landscape. The Rocky Mountains serve as the continental divide, where water flows either toward the Atlantic or the Pacific. The Appalachian Mountains, though much older and lower, were the first major barrier to westward expansion for early pioneers. Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada and the Cascades create "rain shadows," leading to the dry deserts of the Great Basin.
Rivers and lakes have been the primary drivers of settlement and trade. The Mississippi River system, including its major tributaries like the Missouri and Ohio, creates a massive drainage basin that covers nearly half of the contiguous United States.
A mile-deep canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. It reveals nearly two billion years of Earth's geological history.
The world's first national park, sitting atop a volcanic hotspot. It contains half of the world's active geysers, including Old Faithful.
Famous for its granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, as well as the towering Sequoia trees.
A massive waterfall on the border with Canada, providing huge amounts of hydroelectric power.
Ready to test your geography knowledge? Try our interactive quizzes and deepen your understanding of the American landscape: