14 Popular Websites Built With WordPress
Did you know WordPress powers almost half of all websites on the internet?
It isn’t just a blogging tool—it’s a content management powerhouse that lets you create any kind of website imaginable.
It’s not just us that uses WordPress, it’s the go-to choice for businesses, creators, and some of the world’s most popular brands.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the biggest WordPress Website Examples from popular brands.
We won’t just stop at showcasing these sites—we’ll also show you how you can build a site just like them!
With the Astra theme and Spectra website builder, you can create a stunning WordPress site without writing a single line of code.
We’ll even share some readymade templates to help you launch your dream site faster!
What Is WordPress Capable Of?
WordPress isn’t just a platform for blogs—it’s capable of creating and managing any type of website.
Let’s break down what makes it so versatile:
- Effortless content management: Managing content couldn’t be easier. You can add blog posts, pages, or media without any coding knowledge. Just point, click, and publish.
- Limitless customization: Whether you’re setting up a personal blog or building a full-scale business site, WordPress has you covered. With thousands of themes and Astra or Elementor, you can customize your site exactly how you want.
- SEO-friendly: Want to be found on Google? WordPress has built-in SEO features and powerful plugins like Yoast SEO, making it simple to boost your rankings.
- Scalability for all sizes: Start small and grow big. WordPress scales with you, whether you’re running a blog or managing a site with millions of visitors.
- eCommerce ready: Thinking about selling online? With WooCommerce or SureCart, WordPress transforms into a full-on online store with product pages, shopping carts, and secure payments.
- Multimedia support: Upload and manage images, videos, audio, and more. You can even embed content from platforms like YouTube and Instagram.
- Rock-solid security: Stay protected with regular updates and top-tier security plugins like Wordfence.
- Thriving community and support: Stuck on something? WordPress has a massive community offering support through forums, tutorials, and other resources to solve any challenge you may face.
These features make WordPress more than just a blogging platform – it’s a powerful, adaptable CMS that can power any kind of website!
Let’s dive into our list of WordPress Website Examples that showcase just how versatile this platform can be
14 Popular Websites Built With WordPress
Here are some of the top websites on the internet that are powered by WordPress.
1. TechCrunch.com
- Site type: Leading technology news platform
- Load time: 788 ms
- Notable plugin: Yoast SEO
If you’re into technology, TechCrunch.com is the place to be.
Covering everything from the latest startups to Silicon Valley gossip, this site has been a tech haven since its launch in 2005.
And with over 12 million visitors every month, TechCrunch needs a platform that’s up to the task of handling so much traffic and content.
That’s why they trust WordPress.
What makes TechCrunch shine is its multi-column layout. WordPress helps keep everything perfectly organized – nothing feels cluttered even when there’s a ton of content.
Bold headlines, large images, and just enough text make it easy to navigate, so you don’t feel lost scrolling through tech updates.
Another thing that stands out is its left-side sticky menu. It’s fixed so it’s always there to help you quickly jump between sections, no matter how deep you are in an article.
Even with ads scattered around, WordPress ensures they don’t become distracting.
Whether you’re browsing on your laptop or phone, TechCrunch’s responsive design will always look great.
2. NASA.gov
- Site type: Displays celestial wonders and space missions
- Load time: 2.83 sec
- Notable plugin: Rank Math SEO
NASA.gov isn’t just a website – it’s a portal to the universe.
With over 31 million visitors each month, it’s the go-to site for space enthusiasts who want updates on missions and stunning images from across the cosmos.
WordPress powers this massive platform, keeping everything organized and easy to explore.
NASA has kept its top menu minimalistic, with arrow icons that let you reveal additional content.
This simple design is perfect for users navigating such an info-packed site.
Even though the website is media heavy, WordPress optimizes everything so you can easily explore space without any delays.
Ever tuned into a NASA live stream for a satellite launch or spacewalk?
WordPress makes those live broadcasts seamless, letting you enjoy every minute without a hiccup.
Despite the heavy use of images, the site’s black-and-white layout ensures text stays prominent and easy to read.
Whether it’s breaking news on a planetary discovery or a stunning space photo gallery, WordPress helps NASA showcase the wonders of the universe while keeping everything running smoothly.
3. Time.com
- Site type: Digital platform for an iconic magazine
- Load time: 2.15 sec
- Notable plugin: Plugins hidden from public
Since 1923, Time.com has been delivering news, politics, and cultural stories to millions of readers.
Now, with over 22 million readers every month, Time needs a powerful platform to manage its vast amount of content—and that’s where WordPress steps in.
Time strikes a perfect balance between whitespace and information, creating a clean and comfortable reading experience.
It’s not easy blending text, images, and videos without overwhelming the page, but WordPress helps it happen.
The site’s magazine-style layout is sleek and functional. WordPress ensures Time’s vast array of stories are accessible, well-structured, and fast-loading.
4. RollingStone.com
- Site type: Digital home of the legendary music and culture magazine
- Load time: 946 ms
- Notable plugin: JetPack
When it comes to music, culture, and politics, RollingStone.com is an iconic voice.
Since launching in 1967, the site now attracts over 20 million visitors every month, and it’s powered by WordPress.
Rolling Stone uses WordPress to deliver vibrant articles, exclusive interviews, and must-read reviews.
What’s really great about the site is its compact layout – WordPress helps Rolling Stone pack in a lot of content without overwhelming the reader.
And since they operate on a subscription basis, WordPress’s features make it easy to manage subscriptions, ensuring readers get the content they pay for.
The design is clean and engaging, helping you explore the site’s rich content with ease.
Behind the scenes, WordPress does the heavy lifting, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.
5. RollingStones.com
- Site type: Official site for the legendary rock band, The Rolling Stones
- Load time: 4.07 sec
- Notable plugin: Yoast SEO
While we’re on the topic, here’s one for all you Rolling Stones fans.
RollingStones.com is the official band hub, drawing in 6.4 million fans every month.
This site is packed with everything a fan could want – tour updates, exclusive content, and a deep dive into the band’s rich history.
The homepage features a mega image slider that showcases tour dates, band news, and exclusive merch.
Thanks to the flexibility of WordPress, the site uses cool effects like mouse hover animations, where lights move across the page, and the hero image extends when you hover a menu item.
If you’re browsing through the band’s albums or grabbing some new gear, WordPress ensures the entire experience is smooth and enjoyable.
6. TaylorSwift.com
- Site type: Official site for the music artist
- Load time: 2.59 sec
- Notable plugins: Yoast SEO, Contact Form 7
Swifties, this one’s for you! TaylorSwift.com is where to go for the latest news on Taylor, whether it’s new albums, tour dates, or exclusive merchandise.
With over 6 million monthly visitors, Taylor’s website runs on WordPress, keeping everything fast, functional, and stylish.
The homepage features a YouTube video so you can dive into Taylor’s latest song the moment you land.
Need to buy merch? The website seamlessly integrates an external store.
Plus, social media links, subscription forms, and tour dates are all nicely integrated into the site’s design.
Whether you’re buying concert tickets or catching up on her latest projects, WordPress ensures the site runs smoothly, giving you easy access to everything Taylor-related.
7. WhiteHouse.gov
- Site type: Official website for the executive branch of the U.S. government
- Load time: 1.16 sec
- Notable plugin: Plugins hidden from public
As a communication tool for the U.S. government, WhiteHouse.gov offers insights into policies, government initiatives, and executive orders.
With 6 million visitors each month, this site needs to be reliable and secure.
Unlike traditional government websites, WhiteHouse.gov feels more like a media site, keeping us engaged with a modern, accessible design.
The top menu guides visitors to various sections, each uniquely laid out depending on the content type.
WordPress’s content management system allows the site to be updated in real-time, making sure that you’re always informed on the latest government policies and news.
The user-friendly design ensures you can navigate the site smoothly, regardless of the device you’re using.
8. 9to5Mac.com
- Site type: Premier source for Apple news
- Load time: 1.06 sec
- Notable plugin: Yoast SEO
Launched in 2007, 9to5Mac.com is the go-to source for all things Apple.
Whether you’re after the latest news, product reviews, or tech tips, the site draws in 4.6 million visitors per month, and it runs smoothly thanks to WordPress.
The site’s clean and minimalist design makes it easy to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a deep dive into Apple rumors or a hands-on product review.
Despite a packed menu and frequent updates, WordPress helps keep things organized and fast.
WordPress ensures that 9to5Mac stays responsive and user-friendly so Apple fans can always find the latest scoop.
9. TedBlog.com
- Site type: Insightful talks and discussions platform
- Load time: 1.82 sec
- Notable plugin: JetPack
You’ve probably watched a TED Talk, but TedBlog.com takes things further.
It offers behind-the-scenes content and deep insights into some of the most thought-provoking ideas.
This WordPress-powered site reaches 1.5 million monthly visitors and is an extension of the TED brand.
Though the design is minimalistic, WordPress ensures the site functions smoothly.
There are no traditional categories displayed, but the clean layout makes it easy to navigate.
You can explore the latest TED Talks, discover trending topics, or dive into what’s happening live without any hassle.
WordPress helps TED deliver a sleek, engaging experience that keeps curious minds coming back for more.
10. SonyMusic.com
- Site type: Official site for a global music label
- Load time: 856 ms
- Notable plugin: Yoast SEO
As one of the world’s largest music labels, SonyMusic.com is the place to find news, exclusive content, and information on the world’s top artists.
With 1.4 million monthly visitors, the site relies on WordPress to efficiently handle its vast array of multimedia content.
The homepage slider grabs your attention immediately, showing off featured artists and albums. You can click on each image to jump to the artist’s website.
Even though the design is compact, WordPress makes sure the layout remains functional and visually appealing.
Whether you’re exploring the latest music news or checking out the newest releases, WordPress keeps things running smoothly.
11. PMIndia.gov.in
- Site type: Official portal for the prime minister of India
- Load time: 2.20 sec
- Notable plugin: WordPress Popular Posts
With over 2.5 million monthly visitors, the site handles high traffic thanks to WordPress.
What’s impressive is that the site is multilingual, supporting 14 languages, including English, Hindi, Bengali, and Gujarati.
This feature is crucial for engaging a diverse population, and WordPress’s robust language support makes it possible.
The top bar lets you adjust text size and access useful links, while the roll-down menu effect reveals the entire navigation when clicked.
WordPress ensures the site remains organized and easy to use, helping millions of citizens stay informed.
12. UsainBolt.com
- Site type: Personal brand website for the legendary sprinter
- Load time: 5.42 sec
- Notable plugin: Yoast SEO
UsainBolt.com is the official site of legendary sprinter Usain Bolt.
It offers fans a closer look into his impressive career, achievements, and current ventures.
Powered by WordPress, this site handles a healthy traffic of about 150,000 monthly visitors, efficiently managing multimedia content like videos, images, and event updates.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the transparent header and a bold menu that stands out against the background.
Navigating the site feels smooth and intuitive, much like Bolt’s famous sprints.
The stunning parallax effect on the homepage, where Usain’s portrait sits majestically in the background. It’s not only visually appealing but a piece of cake for WordPress to manage.
Of course, the site is fast and responsive – mirroring Bolt’s lightning speed.
13. SnoopDogg.com
- Site type: Artist’s personal and commercial hub
- Load time: 1.25 sec
- Notable plugin: Elementor Pro
SnoopDogg.com is the ultimate destination for fans of the legendary rapper, Snoop Dogg.
Whether you’re looking for his latest music releases, cultural insights, or just want to dive into his world, this WordPress-powered site has it all.
With around 200,000 monthly visitors, it’s a stylish blend of function and personality, much like Snoop himself.
From films and music to live TV and an online store, WordPress ensures fans have easy access to every corner of Snoop’s brand.
The layout? Slick and visually appealing, with the SnoopDogg logo tying everything together at the top.
Elementor has been used to keep everything balanced and well-structured.
A fun touch is the “Featured Releases” section, where the record slides out of its cover to give you a nostalgic feel.
SnoopDogg.com offers several options to enhance the user experience.
You can increase contrast, adjust text size, or highlight links. All of this is made possible through WordPress’s integration capabilities with external tools – UserWay in this case.
WordPress doesn’t just manage the multimedia-heavy content effortlessly, it also keeps things laid-back and cool, just like Snoop himself.
14. Harvard.edu
- Site type: Academic portal for Harvard University
- Load time: 19.86 sec
- Notable plugin: Yoast SEO
Harvard.edu is the digital gateway to one of the world’s most prestigious universities.
With over 10 million monthly visitors, the site is powered by WordPress.
As soon as you land on the homepage, a header video auto-plays, delivering the most important messages right away.
It’s a subtle, but impactful way to engage visitors, and WordPress handles this feature flawlessly.
The video in the header likely contributes to the site’s longer loading time. If you need to include such a feature, you can optimize it by using a high-performance video plugin like Presto Player.
When it comes to navigating the site, WordPress makes it incredibly simple. The menu is tucked into a button, rolling down to reveal an extensive list of sections when clicked.
Overall, WordPress makes managing Harvard’s enormous content base look easy, all while offering you a seamless and engaging experience.
Now you know that the world’s top brands don’t hesitate to use WordPress, let’s help you build your own WordPress-powered website!
Replicate Your Favorite WordPress Website
WordPress is amazing because it gives you the power to create any website you can dream of.
It might seem like a lot to take on, but with the right tools, you can do it all by yourself – no need for coding skills or technical expertise!
Tools You Need
WordPress has a rich ecosystem of high-quality themes and plugins that make building beautiful, functional websites a breeze.
Two standout tools are the Astra theme and the Spectra page builder.
Astra is a top-tier WordPress theme loved by over 1.7 million active users, including NASA’s Kennedy Space Center team.
You can also check it from the source code:
It’s incredibly flexible, lightning fast, and designed to give you full control.
Plus, Astra has 250+ premade Starter Templates ready to help you build something amazing.
All you have to do is pick the one you love, hit Import and voilà—your new site is ready to customize!
Spectra is a page builder that works within the default WordPress editor.
This means fewer lines of code and faster load times, keeping your site speedy.
And the best part? It fits seamlessly into the WordPress experience without feeling clunky.
The page builder is all about drag and drop simplicity, loaded with features, and perfectly integrated with Astra.
Build an IMDb-Style Site
Ever thought about building a site like IMDb – the go-to platform for movies, TV shows, and celebrity info?
With over 500 million visits a month, IMDb’s sleek, user-friendly design makes navigating its huge database super easy.
Using Astra and Spectra, you can create a powerful, content-rich website just like IMDb.
We’ve even got a step-by-step video tutorial to guide you through the process.
Build an Airbnb-Style Site
Airbnb is the go-to platform for travelers looking for unique stays and for homeowners eager to rent out spaces.
With over 100 million monthly visits, it offers everything from cozy cabins to chic city apartments, catering to a global audience of travelers and property owners alike.
What sets Airbnb apart? Its clean, user-friendly design, which highlights trust and community-driven reviews.
Travelers can easily browse listings, read reviews, and book their perfect stay with confidence.
Want to create a similar site using Astra and Spectra?
These tools make it easy to build a sleek, responsive website with custom layouts and engaging features—no coding needed.
Check out our video tutorial for step-by-step guidance on how to create a website like Airbnb. It’s simpler than you think!
Readymade Templates To Help Mimic a Popular Design
Astra is so versatile that you can easily build a site similar to any of the popular websites we’ve discussed – whether it’s TechCrunch, RollingStone, or NASA.
For instance, if you’re aiming to create something like TechCrunch, the TechBlogger template is ready to go!
Just customize it to your liking, and you’re set.
But what if your needs are different? You can check hundreds of Astra website examples on its Starter Templates library to achieve what you need.
Let’s take a quick tour through a few of Astra’s templates that could cover nearly every website we mentioned earlier.
Magazine/Newspaper
Sites like Time.com, NASA, or Rolling Stone thrive on clean typography, bold visuals, and engaging videos.
Astra has you covered. One standout is the Business Magazine template, which is perfect for creating that polished, professional look.
Still want more?
Check out:
Entertainment
For something like SonyMusic.com or RollingStones.com, you’ll need a strong visual design that highlights musicians, videos, and featured content.
Astra’s Guitarist template is perfect for this, offering a hero section for musicians, albums, and shows.
Looking for something different?
You might also like:
Sports
Astra makes it easy to create an interactive, sports-driven site like UsainBolt.com.
Check out the Personal Trainer to see what we mean.
Want more sporty options?
Education
For a comprehensive, academic site like Harvard.edu, covering everything from research to campus life, Astra’s Pearson College template is just what you need.
It’s designed to handle busy sites with tons of content, perfect for universities or schools.
Other options include:
These templates cover everything from our list of popular WordPress-powered websites.
Looking for something else?
Head over to the Astra Starter Templates library and explore the endless possibilities for your next site.
Conclusion
By now, it’s pretty clear that WordPress isn’t just for blogs – it’s the engine behind some of the most visited and successful websites out there.
The flexibility, scalability, and ease of use make it the go-to choice for anyone looking to build a site that’s fast, functional, and visually stunning.
The best part? You don’t need to be a coding genius to get started.
With tools like Astra and Spectra, you can create a professional-grade website without writing a single line of code.
Want to build a site that mimics a popular one?
Which type of website would you want to create? Tell us in the comments section.
Abhijeet Kaldate is the co-founder and CRO of Brainstorm Force.
With a keen eye for detail and a knack for getting things done, Abhijeet oversees the company’s operations, managing key areas such as HR, marketing, design and finance.
Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may receive a small commission. Read disclosure. Rest assured that we only recommend products that we have personally used and believe will add value to our readers. Thanks for your support!
