It's so rare when things live up to the hype.
But I was blown away on an evening visit to White Sands National Monument, New Mexico in July. There was some good fortune with the weather and sunset drama, but it would be gorgeous any day. The otherworldly beauty and desolation of the place has stayed with me ever since.
For best viewing, go during the golden hours, before or after the glare and sometimes dangerous heat set in. Marvel at the white-sugar sand that takes on colors of the sky. Take your shoes off and sink your feet into something ancient and ever changing. Be ready to go home with sand in your socks, pockets, and bags.
The few cars left in the park exit along the sand road in the twilight just before closing time.