Awe and wonder are such important feelings to experience; they provoke a desire and motivation to know and learn new things, as well as an appreciation for the immensity and miracles of the world. Whimsy, too, is a marvelous sensation; a multi-sensory experience that prompts an exuberance and zest for life. These feelings can be prompted by many different stimuli, and just like a book or movie, are both subjective and personal. Whether your version of a fairy tale is an emerald forest, a hidden oasis, or charming town, these wonderfully whimsical destinations across the U.S. will absolutely enchant you.
Tree Root Cave - Forks, Washington
kellyvandellen/iStock via Getty Images Plus Hailed by some as the Tree of Life, this giant Sitka spruce in Washington is a true natural wonder. Also called the Runaway Tree and the Kalaloch Tree, this massive spruce has stood stalwart in the face of erosion and relentless surf, causing many to wonder if it is, in fact, enchanted. Beneath the tree lies the Tree Root Cave, a cool and shallow respite from the elements. You’ll find this tree in the Kalaloch Campground near the Kalaloch Lodge, Olympic Peninsula, and it’s a marvel of nature that’s truly something extraordinary to behold. Tree of Life, Forks, WA 98331, USA
Solvang, California
Jeff Hunter/Photographer’s Choice RF Collection via Getty Images Whimsical architecture and windmills line the streets of Solvang, California, a place hailed as the Danish Capital of America. Solvang is a charming SoCal town filled with quaint shops and an iconic white and red windmill. This one-of-a-kind town houses a population of just under 6,000 residents, and its small-town charm is simply unforgettable – no matter how many times you’ve visited. Embrace all things Denmark as you make your way through town; Danish bakeries, unique architecture, and tasty cuisine await throughout Solvang. The name means “sunny fields” in Danish, which is appropriate for the warm and sunny weather of Southern California. Solvang, CA 93463, USA
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park - Oakland, California
John Hudson Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus Just a few miles over the ridge from downtown Oakland, miles of trails wind through an ethereal, fog-covered forest of dense ferns and ancient Coast Redwoods. This is the magic that awaits at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, a lesser-visited park flush with towering trees and real-life giants. Visiting Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park feels a bit like stumbling upon your own private FernGully – without the drive and crowds of California’s other ancient forests. Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619, USA
Seven Magic Mountains - Las Vegas, Nevada
Seven Magic Mountains/Facebook In the Nevada desert, there is a man-made monolith that shines just as brightly as its Vegas brethren. A monumental artwork by Ugo Rondinone and produced by Nevada Museum of Art and Art Production Fund, this collection of 33 colorful totems, dubbed Seven Magic Mountains, is undeniably whimsical. This is Nevada’s very own Stonehenge; but unlike the original, it’s completely a product of its surroundings: simultaneously desert-barren and Vegas-glamorous. Seven Magic Mountains, S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89054, USA
The Subway - Zion National Park, Utah
Matt Anderson Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images Within the wondrous expanse of Zion Natural Park, The Subway is a jaw-dropping scene that’s undeniably magical. This hidden paradise, however, comes at a steep price: a grueling nine-mile hike through cragged cliffs and frigid pools and subterranean caverns. The journey, however, is as marvelous as the destination; complete with sun-dappled oases, cerulean-blue waters, and glittering caves that truly look otherworldly. The Subway, Hurricane, UT 84737, USA
Georgetown, Colorado
Anze Furlan / psgtproductions/iStock via Getty Images Plus If you’ve written off Colorado because you’re more indoorsy than outdoorsy, allow us to introduce you to Georgetown. This Colorado town is pure whimsy and charm that’s the perfect getaway for those looking to experience the splendor of Colorado off the trails – and perhaps on the tracks. A quaint, picturesque town located in the Rocky Mountains, Georgetown is home to many Victorian-style buildings, which give it a fairy-tale atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, taking in magical mountain vistas, historic landmarks, and man-made marvels from the comfort of a classic train car. Georgetown, CO 80444, USA
Hawksbill Crag (Whitaker’s Point) - Kingston, Arkansas
Granger Meador/Flickr Deep in the wilds of the Natural State, a whimsical rock juts out of the mountains, playfully beckoning hikers to its vista. This is Whitaker’s Point, otherwise known as Hawksbill Crag, a rocky outcrop that overlooks a blanket of emerald green mountains and valleys in Arkansas. This playful formation looks like a hawk jutting out from the forest wall, and is accessed via a steep-yet-doable 45-minute hike that offers prime views of the Buffalo River. Given its romantic and resplendent surroundings, Hawksbill Crag is a popular proposal spot that truly sets the stage for this bucket-list moment. Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Co Rd 406, Kingston, AR 72742, USA
Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana
Sonja Jordan/imageBROKER Collection via Getty Images For those seeking an immersive experience in the wilds of the American South, there’s no place as wholly wondrous as Atchafalaya Basin. Stretching for over 140 miles from Simmesport to the Gulf of Mexico, the Atchafalaya Basin is the nation’s largest river swamp, and it’s home to some of world’s most amazing flora and fauna. Within this region, compromised of about 70% forested habitat and 30% marsh and open water, more than 300 bird species have been identified, including the largest population of wintering American woodcock on the continent and the largest concentration of nesting bald eagles in the region. In other words, the Atchafalaya Basin is a real-life Garden of Eden. Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana 70517, USA
Turnip Rock - Lake Huron, Michigan
Phoenix Moon Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus There are numerous places in Michigan that are fanciful and romantic, but none as wondrously whimsical as Turnip Rock. Separated from the mainland in prehistoric times and worn away by waves into the shape of a turnip, this small island is home to just a few trees and appears almost as a magical mirage. This one-of-a-kind formation, which has long been a popular attraction among those who explore the Port Austin area and broader Thumb Region, sits only a few yards from the shore in relatively shallow waters, making it an accessible bucket-list destination for most. However - there’s a catch for those who want to see it in person. Because its adjacent land is private property, the only legal way to catch a glimpse of Turnip Rock is from the water, so you’ll need to take a canoe or kayak from a nearby town. The paddling journey is approximately seven miles out-and-back, so be sure to plan accordingly. Turnip Rock, 329R+89, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Andrew F Kazmierski/iStock via Getty Images Plus The mountain town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, is impossibly charming and inviting; a Hallmark movie experience that’s even better in real life. Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Jim Thorpe is home to less than 5,000 residents and draws countless visitors each year to its many activities and a variety of annual festivals. Whether you choose to experience the town’s numerous festivals, opt for a scenic ride aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, or wander the beguiling downtown – staying overnight in the (notoriously haunted) Inn at Jim Thorpe, of course – this is one whimsical place in the US sure to capture your heart.
Bannerman Castle - New York
Cavan Images/iStock via Getty Images Plus There are numerous castles across the US that are straight out of a story book, but none quite as mysterious and magical as Bannerman Castle. This structure was built in 1900 by Frank Bannerman, a military surplus dealer who, after the Spanish-American War, found himself with an excess of stock too big for his Manhattan shop. So in 1900, Bannerman purchased an island (as you do) and began constructing his battery. He wanted to honor his Scottish heritage by building the warehouse in the form of a giant castle. The large castle on the property functioned as storage for his arsenal, but he also built a castle residence for himself up on the hill. In 1918, Bannerman passed away, and construction on the massive castle suddenly ceased. It remained vacant and was damaged in a fire in 1920 when gunpowder exploded. While the castle certainly no longer resembles its glory days of the early 1900s, its remnants are still an impressive feat of architectural design, and a curious and captivating relic from another time and place. Bannerman Castle, Beacon, NY 12508, USA
Gingerbread Cottages - Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Bonnie Donovan/iStock via Getty Images Plus It’s hard to be more whimsical than a row of real-life gingerbread houses, which is what you’ll find in Oak Bluff, Massachusetts. This row of homes – dubbed the “Gingerbread Cottages” – in Martha’s Vineyard is impossibly charming and delightfully colorful. Most people become quite enchanted with the town of Oak Bluffs, especially after walking through its delightful gingerbread village. Established as a Methodist campground in the 19th century, the brightly colored houses in this neighborhood look as though they are straight out of a fairy tale – and an inviting one, at that! Oak Bluffs, MA, USA
Spire Cove - Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska
Wander Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus One of the most famous national parks in the country, Kenai Fjords National Park is an extraordinary expanse where the oceans, mountains, and ice meet. The park is comprised of 40 glaciers that stand as grand totems; while all are beautiful, Spire Cove quite literally stands apart. The Cove of Spires, as it’s called, was formed over time as waves eroded the coastline, carving out caves, arches, and spires. This whimsical collection of spires is sublimely beautiful, and can be experienced up-close on one of the park’s cruise boat tours. Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska, USA
Maui Garden of Eden, Hawaii
Maui Garden of Eden Hawaii is widely considered to be the closest thing to paradise, and Maui’s Garden of Eden epitomizes this thought. This 26-acre garden is lush and lovely, with meandering walkways, beautiful picnic spaces, and coastal views – if you’re looking for an iconic Hawaiian rainbow, you’ll likely find it here! The Garden’s crowning glory is unquestionably its grove of rainbow eucalyptus trees. These plants, splattered with a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, is easily Mother Nature’s most marvelous artistic masterpiece in Hawaii. Garden of Eden Arboretum, 10600 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA
When was the last time you let yourself experience awe and wonder at our whimsical, wonderful world? Open your mind and heart and allow yourself these emotions and experiences; they’re worth it.
kellyvandellen/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Hailed by some as the Tree of Life, this giant Sitka spruce in Washington is a true natural wonder. Also called the Runaway Tree and the Kalaloch Tree, this massive spruce has stood stalwart in the face of erosion and relentless surf, causing many to wonder if it is, in fact, enchanted. Beneath the tree lies the Tree Root Cave, a cool and shallow respite from the elements. You’ll find this tree in the Kalaloch Campground near the Kalaloch Lodge, Olympic Peninsula, and it’s a marvel of nature that’s truly something extraordinary to behold.
Tree of Life, Forks, WA 98331, USA
Jeff Hunter/Photographer’s Choice RF Collection via Getty Images
Whimsical architecture and windmills line the streets of Solvang, California, a place hailed as the Danish Capital of America. Solvang is a charming SoCal town filled with quaint shops and an iconic white and red windmill. This one-of-a-kind town houses a population of just under 6,000 residents, and its small-town charm is simply unforgettable – no matter how many times you’ve visited. Embrace all things Denmark as you make your way through town; Danish bakeries, unique architecture, and tasty cuisine await throughout Solvang. The name means “sunny fields” in Danish, which is appropriate for the warm and sunny weather of Southern California.
Solvang, CA 93463, USA
John Hudson Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Just a few miles over the ridge from downtown Oakland, miles of trails wind through an ethereal, fog-covered forest of dense ferns and ancient Coast Redwoods. This is the magic that awaits at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, a lesser-visited park flush with towering trees and real-life giants. Visiting Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park feels a bit like stumbling upon your own private FernGully – without the drive and crowds of California’s other ancient forests.
Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, 7867 Redwood Rd, Oakland, CA 94619, USA
Seven Magic Mountains/Facebook
In the Nevada desert, there is a man-made monolith that shines just as brightly as its Vegas brethren. A monumental artwork by Ugo Rondinone and produced by Nevada Museum of Art and Art Production Fund, this collection of 33 colorful totems, dubbed Seven Magic Mountains, is undeniably whimsical. This is Nevada’s very own Stonehenge; but unlike the original, it’s completely a product of its surroundings: simultaneously desert-barren and Vegas-glamorous.
Seven Magic Mountains, S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89054, USA
Matt Anderson Photography/Moment Collection via Getty Images
Within the wondrous expanse of Zion Natural Park, The Subway is a jaw-dropping scene that’s undeniably magical. This hidden paradise, however, comes at a steep price: a grueling nine-mile hike through cragged cliffs and frigid pools and subterranean caverns. The journey, however, is as marvelous as the destination; complete with sun-dappled oases, cerulean-blue waters, and glittering caves that truly look otherworldly.
The Subway, Hurricane, UT 84737, USA
Anze Furlan / psgtproductions/iStock via Getty Images Plus
If you’ve written off Colorado because you’re more indoorsy than outdoorsy, allow us to introduce you to Georgetown. This Colorado town is pure whimsy and charm that’s the perfect getaway for those looking to experience the splendor of Colorado off the trails – and perhaps on the tracks. A quaint, picturesque town located in the Rocky Mountains, Georgetown is home to many Victorian-style buildings, which give it a fairy-tale atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, taking in magical mountain vistas, historic landmarks, and man-made marvels from the comfort of a classic train car.
Georgetown, CO 80444, USA
Granger Meador/Flickr
Deep in the wilds of the Natural State, a whimsical rock juts out of the mountains, playfully beckoning hikers to its vista. This is Whitaker’s Point, otherwise known as Hawksbill Crag, a rocky outcrop that overlooks a blanket of emerald green mountains and valleys in Arkansas. This playful formation looks like a hawk jutting out from the forest wall, and is accessed via a steep-yet-doable 45-minute hike that offers prime views of the Buffalo River. Given its romantic and resplendent surroundings, Hawksbill Crag is a popular proposal spot that truly sets the stage for this bucket-list moment.
Hawksbill Crag/Whitaker Point, Co Rd 406, Kingston, AR 72742, USA
Sonja Jordan/imageBROKER Collection via Getty Images
For those seeking an immersive experience in the wilds of the American South, there’s no place as wholly wondrous as Atchafalaya Basin. Stretching for over 140 miles from Simmesport to the Gulf of Mexico, the Atchafalaya Basin is the nation’s largest river swamp, and it’s home to some of world’s most amazing flora and fauna. Within this region, compromised of about 70% forested habitat and 30% marsh and open water, more than 300 bird species have been identified, including the largest population of wintering American woodcock on the continent and the largest concentration of nesting bald eagles in the region. In other words, the Atchafalaya Basin is a real-life Garden of Eden.
Atchafalaya Basin, Louisiana 70517, USA
Phoenix Moon Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus
There are numerous places in Michigan that are fanciful and romantic, but none as wondrously whimsical as Turnip Rock. Separated from the mainland in prehistoric times and worn away by waves into the shape of a turnip, this small island is home to just a few trees and appears almost as a magical mirage. This one-of-a-kind formation, which has long been a popular attraction among those who explore the Port Austin area and broader Thumb Region, sits only a few yards from the shore in relatively shallow waters, making it an accessible bucket-list destination for most. However - there’s a catch for those who want to see it in person. Because its adjacent land is private property, the only legal way to catch a glimpse of Turnip Rock is from the water, so you’ll need to take a canoe or kayak from a nearby town. The paddling journey is approximately seven miles out-and-back, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Turnip Rock, 329R+89, Port Austin, MI 48467, USA
Andrew F Kazmierski/iStock via Getty Images Plus
The mountain town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, is impossibly charming and inviting; a Hallmark movie experience that’s even better in real life. Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Jim Thorpe is home to less than 5,000 residents and draws countless visitors each year to its many activities and a variety of annual festivals. Whether you choose to experience the town’s numerous festivals, opt for a scenic ride aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, or wander the beguiling downtown – staying overnight in the (notoriously haunted) Inn at Jim Thorpe, of course – this is one whimsical place in the US sure to capture your heart.
Cavan Images/iStock via Getty Images Plus
There are numerous castles across the US that are straight out of a story book, but none quite as mysterious and magical as Bannerman Castle. This structure was built in 1900 by Frank Bannerman, a military surplus dealer who, after the Spanish-American War, found himself with an excess of stock too big for his Manhattan shop. So in 1900, Bannerman purchased an island (as you do) and began constructing his battery. He wanted to honor his Scottish heritage by building the warehouse in the form of a giant castle. The large castle on the property functioned as storage for his arsenal, but he also built a castle residence for himself up on the hill. In 1918, Bannerman passed away, and construction on the massive castle suddenly ceased. It remained vacant and was damaged in a fire in 1920 when gunpowder exploded. While the castle certainly no longer resembles its glory days of the early 1900s, its remnants are still an impressive feat of architectural design, and a curious and captivating relic from another time and place.
Bannerman Castle, Beacon, NY 12508, USA
Bonnie Donovan/iStock via Getty Images Plus
It’s hard to be more whimsical than a row of real-life gingerbread houses, which is what you’ll find in Oak Bluff, Massachusetts. This row of homes – dubbed the “Gingerbread Cottages” – in Martha’s Vineyard is impossibly charming and delightfully colorful. Most people become quite enchanted with the town of Oak Bluffs, especially after walking through its delightful gingerbread village. Established as a Methodist campground in the 19th century, the brightly colored houses in this neighborhood look as though they are straight out of a fairy tale – and an inviting one, at that!
Oak Bluffs, MA, USA
Wander Photography/iStock via Getty Images Plus
One of the most famous national parks in the country, Kenai Fjords National Park is an extraordinary expanse where the oceans, mountains, and ice meet. The park is comprised of 40 glaciers that stand as grand totems; while all are beautiful, Spire Cove quite literally stands apart. The Cove of Spires, as it’s called, was formed over time as waves eroded the coastline, carving out caves, arches, and spires. This whimsical collection of spires is sublimely beautiful, and can be experienced up-close on one of the park’s cruise boat tours.
Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska, USA
Maui Garden of Eden
Hawaii is widely considered to be the closest thing to paradise, and Maui’s Garden of Eden epitomizes this thought. This 26-acre garden is lush and lovely, with meandering walkways, beautiful picnic spaces, and coastal views – if you’re looking for an iconic Hawaiian rainbow, you’ll likely find it here! The Garden’s crowning glory is unquestionably its grove of rainbow eucalyptus trees. These plants, splattered with a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, is easily Mother Nature’s most marvelous artistic masterpiece in Hawaii.
Garden of Eden Arboretum, 10600 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, USA
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