For a traveler, there are many options when it comes to the United States of America. Some of the most beautiful cities in the US boast diverse cultures, picturesque landscapes, and rich histories that make this land so interesting and enjoyable. This list of prettiest cities across the United States will inspire you to take a trip right now and enjoy the many sights this country has to offer.
From Chicago to San Francisco, here are the truly gorgeous cities in the US that should be on the bucket list of every traveler.
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Charleston, founded in 1670 on the coast of South Carolina, is one of America's most beautiful cities that overflows with new world charm. Pretty pastel-painted houses line the cobblestone streets. Huge oak trees dripping with Spanish moss and horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along, taking tourists on tour to see the finest antebellum homes.
Charleston is a compact city, easy to explore on foot – don't miss a stroll along the promenade that runs along the seafront. Overlooking the harbor and Waterfront Park, this coastal walk passes many prominent historic buildings with their elegant verandas shaded by palm trees. While across the water, the federal stronghold of Fort Sumter bore witness to the first shots of the Civil War.
In nearby streets, you'll discover boutique shops, museums, and art galleries, and no end of fabulous restaurants. Learn about milling, mashing, fermenting, and distilling in the Cyprus-panelled tasting room of the High Wire Distillery or learn to dance the Shag in one of the lively city bars.
For food lovers, a visit to the Charleston Farmer's Market is a must. Held every Saturday from April through December on Marion Square, it's a great place to sample some South Carolina fare. And the food scene in Charleston is well worth sampling. An elegant, buzzing city, there's always something new to discover no matter how many times you visit Charleston.
Suggested by Kathryn Burrington from Travel With Kat
Accommodation: Where to stay in Charleston
Also Read: Best Things To Do in South Carolina
Strolling down Georgia’s oldest city’s tree-lined streets filled with antebellum buildings and historic charm, it is no wonder why Savannah is one of the best cities to visit in the United States. Boasting a laid-back southern lifestyle and colorful natural landscape, Savannah invites around 13 million tourists a year to admire its awe-inspiring beauty.
To capture the essence of Savannah, visitors should head to the city’s famous Historic District. Savannah’s picturesque Historic District will thrill fans of art, photography, and history alike. With 22 uniquely different squares to explore, there is always something new to discover at every turn. While the historic district is exquisite on its own, Forsyth Park definitely adds to Savannah’s appeal. As a beautiful, lush landscape, visitors can explore over 30 acres of flowers, trees, and wildlife.
Forsyth Park is also home to Savannah’s most photographed spot—the Forsyth Park Fountain. Another breathtaking area is along the lovely Savannah River, where one can enjoy a leisurely walk along River Street. Here, one can indulge in some of the local favorites found in one of the area’s highly-rated restaurants or bars.
Suggested by Ellie from Ellie’s Travel Tips
Accommodation: Where to stay in Savannah
Also Read: Top Savannah Attractions & Things To Do
Nestled between the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges and surrounded by water, it should be no surprise that Seattle is breathtakingly gorgeous and one of the coolest cities in the US.
There are plenty of typical tourist attractions to explore - Pike Place Market, a public market full of local vendors peddling their wares since the 20th century; the Museum of Pop Culture, an ode to all things in popular culture, from horror movies to Prince’s guitar, all housed within a surreal Frank Gehry building; and the Space Needle, an observation tower built for the 1962 World’s Fair that has been solidified as an icon of Seattle.
But where Seattle really shines is in its outdoor spaces. Mosey to a lighthouse in Discovery Park, a 534-acre forested park along the shores of the Puget Sound. For a glimpse into the city’s quirky personality, Gas Works Park, a large hilly park overlooking Lake Union and the skyline, with the shell of a coal gasification plant from the early 1900s seamlessly blending in with the green space, is not to be missed.
If you’re looking to truly explore Seattle’s beauty, don’t limit yourself to city limits - Seattle is one of the only cities to be within two and a half hours' driving distance from three spectacular U.S. national parks - Mount Rainier, Olympic, and Northern Cascades. Regardless if you’re an urbane traveler or, instead, looking for an adventure in an epic natural setting, Seattle is the perfect city for you to explore.
Suggested by Jessica from Uprooted Traveler
Accomodation: 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Seattle
Anchorage – Alaska’s largest city with a population of just under 300,000 – is beautifully situated on the Cook Inlet with surrounding mountain views. Many people visit this scenic area in the summer, where temperatures average in the mid-60s, and there is endless daylight.
Anchorage is an outdoor lover's paradise. Lakes, streams, waterfront trails and steep, scenic mountain peaks provide plenty of outdoor recreation. Fishing, hiking, and biking opportunities abound. Anchorage is also the gateway to many national parks, forests and state parks, serving endless adventures and wildlife viewing. Chugach State Park, located within Anchorage, boasts 155 mountain peaks alone.
Flattop Mountain – Alaska’s most-climbed mountain – is located just minutes from Anchorage, delivering a thrilling and challenging climb ending with the most outstanding views. While Anchorage is most known for its natural beauty, it’s also home to great restaurants, a fun music scene, museums and breweries.
You can learn about Alaska’s Indigenous cultures at the Alaska Native Heritage Center and then grab a craft beer in one of the many local breweries. Alaska actually ranks 3rd in the country for gallons of beer produced per capita! Anchorage offers numerous adventures amidst the mountains, trees and ocean coast, where you may even catch a glimpse of a beluga whale in the bay.
Suggested by Deanne from Scenic and Savvy
Accommodation: Where to stay in Anchorage
Also Read: 10 Best Places to Visit in Anchorage, Alaska
Chicago is one of the best American cities. If you overlook the business district with its distinct skyscrapers, you can find many beautiful areas. Millennium Park, located downtown, tops the list of such places. The vast lakeside park houses the famous Bean – a bean-shaped stainless steel sculpture officially called the Cloud Gate.
People usually admire the neighboring Crown Fountain – a unique interactive fountain that features large LED displays that project human faces. The fountain is especially popular on hot summer days since one can walk in and get refreshed. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, designed by the famous architect Frank Gehry located a few steps away, is a large outdoor concert venue with a unique look.
The whole of Michigan Lake serves as the most beautiful backdrop. The sandy shoreline and the sheer size of the lake make it seem like you’re by the sea. There are several beaches to enjoy some sunbathing or even swimming, as well as water sports. Chicago also has an 18-mile-long Lakefront Trail, which can be used for walking, jogging, cycling, or skateboarding. It connects the beaches and several pit stops.
If you prefer to stay downtown, the Chicago Riverwalk is an especially pretty outdoor space decorated with art displays and featuring cafés and restaurants with a nice view. You can also hop on a boat tour to see the Windy City from another angle.
Suggested by Veronika Primm from Travel Geekery
Accommodation: Where to stay in Chicago
Accomodation: 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Chicago
One of the most attractive cities in the US is on the tropical island of Oahu. Honolulu, Hawaii, is nestled between gorgeous mountains and stunning coastlines. The air is fragrant with plumeria flowers and hints of tropical fruit. People travel from all over the world to step foot on the iconic Waikiki Beach and marvel at the Diamond Head crater in the background. It’s seriously one of the most magnificent views in the world.
Honolulu is a top travel destination for families, couples, and solo travelers because there are so many fun things to do in Oahu. Water sports are a big deal in Hawaii. On Oahu, try surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, parasailing, or stand-up paddling. For art lovers, walk around the Kaka’ako neighborhood for some epic street art or explore the Honolulu Museum of Art.
There are also tons of Instagrammable spots on Oahu, like the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, the Duke Kahanamoku statue in Waikiki, and the gorgeous Iolani Palace. And foodies will love tasting authentic Hawaiian poke, trying Plate Lunch, and cooling off with Hawaiian shaved ice. For Hawaii visitors, it doesn’t get much better than sipping a Mai Tai at a beachside bar while listening to live Hawaiian music and watching hula dancing. It’s no wonder Honolulu is one of the best beach vacation destinations in the world.
Suggested by Marcie from Hawaii Travel With Kids
Accommodation: Where to stay in Honolulu
Los Angeles has a vast urban sprawl that stretches all the way out to the Pacific Coast. This city is so incredibly varied, from the bustling, touristy Hollywood Boulevard to the kitschy, old-timey vibes of Santa Monica and Venice Beach. There’s truly something for everyone in LA. The incomparable free admission art collections of the Getty Centre will thrill art lovers and novices alike.
Hikers will jump at the chance to wander the Hollywood Hills and trudge up the steep canyon-like terrain to the iconic Griffith Observatory. Film lovers will froth with excitement to see the stars on Hollywood Boulevard and the handprints of actors on the cement outside the TCL Chinese Theatre.
LA has a reputation for being for the rich and famous, but there’s plenty here to do that will cost you absolutely nothing. For example, one of the best things to do is find a spot on the beach overlooking the vibrant Santa Monica Pier and watch the sunset over the water. That said, if high-end shopping is the desire, visitors will adore the Beverley Hills area and, in particular, the world-famous Rodeo Drive.
One of the best things about LA is the diversity in the city. Los Angeles has a large Mexican population – arguably the largest in the world outside Mexico – and, as a consequence, has some of the best Mexican food in the whole USA. The El Pueblo area of LA is a great place to explore this side of the city, with the colorful Mexican marketplace on Olvera Street being a favorite. Los Angeles is simply one of the most beautiful places in America.
Suggested by Emma from Emma Jane Explores
Accommodation: Where to stay in Los Angeles
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles
Las Vegas, the Sin City, is one of the best party cities in the US. Shimmering buildings dazzling with lights, fountains dancing to the tunes of light and music, architecture that takes you around the globe, this city has all you can dream of. Las Vegas, known as the gambling city, is so much more than this - a city that is full of life and knows how to live it. The most prominent area in Las Vegas is The Strip, where around 30 magnificent hotels line up on both sides, giving a glimpse into opulence and luxury.
Every hotel is a destination in itself, with so many unique and interesting things to do. How can anyone forget the iconic Bellagio fountains that create an aura with the spectacular fountain show with music and light? Bellagio also has a Botanical observatory that changes its theme seasonally for the floral decorations.
Get a glimpse into Venice by riding the gondolas through the canals and swaying to the music at the Venetian. Besides, there is a replica of the Eiffel Tower right here in Vegas and the cool vibes of New York. The best part is that most of these are free things to do in Las Vegas. The city also hosts some amazing live shows, from comedy to theater to acrobatics to magic shows. The highly acclaimed are the Cirque du Soleil shows that are a must-watch. LV is surely going to charm every traveler with its amazing things.
Suggested by Neha from Travelmelodies
Accommodation: Where to stay in Las Vegas
Florida is a popular vacation spot for tourists from all around the world. The climate is very favorable, and there are many things to see and do in Miami. The city is built across different islands, and its recognizable skyline is contrasted by white-sand beaches and a beautiful bay. If you’re looking for a beach vacation but also want shopping opportunities, nightlife and sightseeing, Miami is the place to go.
Spend a day by the famous Miami Beach and enjoy a cocktail in one of the many beach clubs. Afterward, head to the famous Little Havana neighborhood, where you can find authentic Cuban specialties and a great selection of little bars and restaurants. Of course, no trip to Miami is complete without a walk down Ocean Drive, which will take you past the famous South Beach and some of the prettiest areas around town.
Crandon Park should be high on your list of things to do and see if you want to escape the city and find a piece of nature in the heart of Miami. Located on a small island, this park is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and maybe even a picnic. In the evenings, Miami’s many bars and nightlife venues come to life. Head to the Bayside Marketplace for dinner with live music in one of the many restaurants along the water. Miami has something to offer everyone, so do not miss out on this beautiful city in southern Florida.
Suggested by Victoria from Guide Your Travel
Accommodation: Where to stay in Miami
There is little doubt that New York is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States and a place so easy to fall in love with. The set of many movies and TV series, New York is home to some of the most iconic sights in the country. This is where you will find the Empire State Building and the Rockefeller Center, Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty (though, did you know that’s actually in New Jersey territory?), Central Park, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
But that’s not all. There are way many more things to do in New York, indeed! If you are into art, you will find an incredible concentration of museums: the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art) and the Guggenheim shouldn’t be missed. The latter will impress you with its quirky architecture and ever-changing exhibits. If it’s the views you are after, then the One World Trade Center skyscraper shouldn’t be missed – although the best views of Lower Manhattan are from Brooklyn Heights, right across Brooklyn Bridge.
Areas such as the Greenwich Village and Soho are pleasant to walk around and excellent places to look for smaller restaurants offering delicious food. For a perfect picnic right in the center of town, Central Park is just about perfect – though only one of the many parks in the city! For a fun night, you should snag some tickets for a Broadway show, and if you are a shopaholic, you will be in shopping heaven!
Suggested by Claudia Tavani from My Adventures Across The World
Accommodation: Where to stay in New York City
The city of Asheville itself is unique and beautiful in its own right, but what really sets it apart is the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. This outdoor haven is perfect for hikers, kayakers, mountain bikers, and really anyone who loves a good view.
There are plenty of hikes in Pisgah National Forest that will take you to gorgeous mountain vistas. A few of the best are Craggy Gardens, Mt. Mitchell, and Rattlesnake Point. If you’re chasing waterfalls, don’t miss Catawba Falls, Crabtree Falls, or Looking Glass Falls. None of these hikes will leave you disappointed in the beauty of the mountains.
For whitewater kayakers, there is no shortage of nearby rivers. You can raft or kayak the Nantahala River, French Broad, or Green River. Prefer to mountain bike? Check out trails near Black Mountain or Mills River just outside of Asheville. No matter what adventure you choose, Asheville has it.
If you aren’t the outdoorsy type, then no worries. Asheville is home to the largest home in America - the Biltmore Estate. This house is truly a sight to behold, from the structure itself to the gardens and surrounding views. Make sure to stop by the Biltmore Winery while you’re there.
Getting to Asheville is pretty easy by car, and there is a regional airport just outside of the city. There are multiple reasonable hotels to stay in downtown like Aloft Hotel or Hotel Indigo, but the best place to stay is in a cabin with a hot tub. After a long day of adventure, it feels good to relax.
Suggested by Anna from Stuck On the Go
Accommodation: Where to stay in Asheville
Also Read: Best Things To Do in North Carolina
Boston is a beautiful city full of history and charm. It is also one of the oldest municipalities in the USA, with the first settlements dating back to 1630. You can still see a lot of astounding old historic buildings in the city. Make sure you walk the Freedom Trail, which takes you through some of the most important sites in Boston, where you can learn a lot about the city’s history.
Not to miss on your Boston itinerary is the Boston Public Library at Copley Square, which is one of the most beautiful libraries in the country. The city is set on the waterfront, making it a wonderful place to stroll along the harbor or go for a boat trip. You can even go on a whale-watching tour from Boston, which is an absolutely unique experience.
Another wonderful place to visit is the oldest public park in the United States, the Boston Common. Take a stroll through this green space and continue to Boston Public Garden nearby to see the famous ducklings sculpture from the book about the duck Ms. Mallard of Charles River. Before you leave Boston, make sure you climb the Skywalk Observatory for the best views of the city. It is absolutely worth the cost just to see how stunning it looks from above, with the river cutting through the city.
Suggested by Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers
Accommodation: Where to stay in Boston
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Massachusetts
Madison is the capital city of Wisconsin and is situated in the center of the state. The locals introduce their city as the happiest city in the United States. The city is surrounded by five lakes and several preserved natural areas. It not only makes Madison one of the most beautiful cities in Wisconsin but also one of America’s most beautiful cities.
The city has a perfect balance between business and pleasure that travelers can notice the minute they arrive. Reaching Madison is easy as travelers can take a direct flight to the Dane County Regional Airport. Madison offers a list full of things to do in the city and the best way to get started with it is to visit the Wisconsin State Capitol Building.
The building sits in the center block of downtown, and it looks stunning at night when it is lit up. The travelers can then make their way to the University of Wisconsin, Madison, to explore the 12,60-acre campus and research institution. The walking trails around the lakes and neighborhood parks offer one of the most romantic getaways in Wisconsin with an iconic view. The city's top national rankings, like the best small city, the best place for bicycling and more, make it more special.
Suggested by Paulina from Paulina on the Road
Accommodation: Where to stay in Madison
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Wisconsin
Philadelphia is one of America’s best cities to visit on the East Coast. It’s full of incredible attractions, world-class museums, great food, and nightlife, but amidst everything, it’s a gorgeous place to visit. One reason Philadelphia is so charming is the historical buildings that have been so well preserved.
Some of them are attractions like Independence Hall, Christ Church, and the Betsy Ross House, while others are tucked away in the quaint neighborhoods of Society Hill, Queens Village, and Old City. You can even book a Philadelphia Airbnb to stay in these areas and some of their historic homes.
Beyond the historic district, Philadelphia has two incredible riverfronts developed to be gathering spots for locals and tourists alike. On the Delaware Riverfront, you’ll find concert venues, parks built on formerly abandoned piers, and recreational spaces like street food parks and skating rinks.
The Schuylkill River boasts some of the city’s best parks and trails, including a stretch of boardwalk built over the river with a perfect view of the downtown skyline. Perhaps the most impressive display of beauty in the city is the citywide network of almost 4,000 murals. For decades, a tremendous effort has been made to combat graffiti through murals by artists from around the world. The result is brilliant, and there are even mural tours, both guided and self-guided, to help visitors capture this beautiful side of the city.
Suggested by Derek from Robe Trotting
Accommodation: Where to stay in Philadelphia
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Pennsylvania
The blend of outdoors and city life brings unparalleled beauty and charm to the city of Denver, Colorado. The Mile High City boasts a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, but with all the history, arts, and culture one would expect from a major metro area - all with roots in the old West.
To truly experience Denver, plan visits to iconic spots such as Union Station, the Molly Brown House Museum, and the U.S. Mint. If visiting in January, the National Western Stock Show and Rodeo capture the history and essence of Denver during the 2+ week event, as it has for over 100 years. The Denver Museum of Art and Denver Museum of Nature & Science offer a look into Denver's history and culture.
The outdoor life in Denver is more than just a view of the Rockies (which is fabulous from Linger, Denver's mortuary-turned-eatery). Without ever leaving the city, get plenty of outdoor adventures biking along the 13-mile Cherry Creek Trail, playing frisbee at Confluence Park, or taking an urban white water rafting adventure on the South Platte River.
Spend the afternoon with both arts and outdoors with a walking tour of murals, street art, and sculptures that are hidden in plain sight around the city. Or take a walking tour of Denver's top breweries, including Wynkoop Brewing Company, Denver Beer Co., and Prost Brewing. Wherever your journey through Denver brings you, make sure your itinerary includes a stop at the Colorado State Capitol to snap a photo at Denver's namesake, the Mile-High Step.
Suggested by Kiersten from Hiking in My Flip Flops
Accommodation: Where to stay in Denver
Also Read: Top Tourist Attractions in Denver
The USA is brimming with beautiful cities, and Nashville is one of them. Known as the "Music City," Nashville has it all. It's the perfect weekend getaway, and it's also fun for a more extended vacation. Nashville is beautiful because you get a big city feel, yet you'll feel right at home. The skyscrapers are beautiful and there are tons of stunning parks around the city as well.
Even though Nashville is known for its music, there are so many other reasons to visit this charming city. You don't have to be a fan of country music to visit! The vibe is relaxing and laid-back and there's something to do here for every traveler.
Some of the best things to do in Nashville include dancing the night away at one of the honky-tonks, having a picnic in Centennial Park, learning about the Parthenon replica, and wandering around the Tennessee State Museum to learn more about the state's history. If you're a fan of music, be sure to check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
Nashville is also a foodie's heaven. Spend the day sampling Nashville Hot Chicken and biscuits to find out who serves the best. Then, take a stroll along the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge to burn off the calories. Other fun things to do in Nashville include looking at the murals scattered around the city and walking around Broadway in the evening. Lastly, if you're looking to escape the city for a bit, take a day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can tackle some hikes here and take in the scenery.
Suggested by Disha Smith from Disha Discovers
Accommodation: Where to stay in Nashville
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Tennessee
The capital of Utah, Salt Lake City, is among the prettiest cities in America. The city has a metropolitan area of over a million people and is known as was previously nicknamed 'The Crossroads of the West' due to being the area where the first transcontinental railroad brought growth.
Salt Lake City has positioned itself as a capital for winter sports and outdoor recreation, and it is a skier's paradise. There are many things to do in the city, such as visiting the LDS Temple, Utah State Capital, Natural History Museum, the Clark Planetarium, and more.
The city is renowned for its green parks and cleanliness, making it even more beautiful. You can also see the mountains in the backdrop of SLC. While you can find plenty of activities in the city, it's really the day trips from Salt Lake City that make it a top destination. From SLC, you can visit the Bonneville Salt Flats, Park City (skiing), Bear Lake near Idaho, and so much more.
Within a mere 20 minutes from the city is the Great Salt Lake - the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi. Salt Lake City is also a fantastic place to fly into to visit Utah's National Parks in the south. Salt Lake City truly is one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States.
Suggested by Megan Starr from Megan & Aram
Accommodation: Where to stay in Salt Lake City
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Utah
Charlottesville, Virginia, is a historical city situated very close to Virginia's only national park, Shenandoah National Park. The city of Charlottesville is most renowned for Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, and the University of Virginia. Both of those are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are on the top of many Virginia bucket lists for travelers.
However, another wonderful thing about Charlottesville is that there are so many nature opportunities nearby. There are several hikes near Charlottesville and inside the city itself - from walks through Kemper Park (Saunders-Monticello Trail) to the more difficult Riprap Trail in Shenandoah National Park.
Another perk of visiting Shenandoah is that you can go underground and experience some of the best caverns on the East Coast, such as Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Caverns. Another thing that Charlottesville and the Monticello area are known for is wine. It is home to the most famous wine region in Virginia.
Getting to Charlottesville is fairly easy if you're driving there from Washington DC, even from Richmond, the capital city of Virginia. And, once you're in the city, everything is pretty easy to navigate. Charlottesville is a beautiful American city - from its architecture to its nature, it is a can't-miss destination for family holidays in the US.
Suggested by Megan Starr from Virginia Travel Tips
Accommodation: Where to stay in Charlottesville
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Virginia
Atlanta is one of the most gorgeous cities in America because it has a unique culture, arts, and history! There are plenty of things to do to experience the beauty, even if you only have one day in Atlanta. First, the skyline is one to behold. The best places to view it are from the Jackson Street Bridge or Piedmont Park, where you can pop in next door to the stunning Atlanta Botanical Gardens, which are themed like Alice in Wonderland.
Head to the Atlanta Beltline, an outdoor pathway that circles the city. Here you’ll see lots of beautiful murals and even a city-wide art installation of Tiny Doors. Another artistic area of town is Krog Street Tunnel, where artists are encouraged to create graffiti masterpieces. Anyone is allowed to add to the tunnel, and it’s always fun to visit because it is constantly changing. Try to find the Tiny Door here too!
Around the corner is the Cabbagetown neighborhood, where there is no shortage of street art to admire. Lastly, be on the lookout for some of Atlanta’s incredible architecture. For example, Fox Theater, which hosts shows and events, opened in 1929 and flaunts Islamic and Egyptian architecture. Everywhere you look, you’re sure to find beauty in this city.
Suggested by Alanna Koritzke from Periodic Adventures
Planning a trip to Atlanta? Be sure to check out our recommendations on the best family hotels in Atlanta!
The Pacific Northwest is home to incredible natural beauty and some of the most peaceful cities in the United States. Portland, Oregon, is one of those cities that truly stands out. The City of Portland is located in a nature lover’s playground. The Cascade Range is less than 50 miles to the east, while the Oregon Coast Range is even closer to the west.
The smaller West Hills rise up in the middle of Portland, providing a mountainous landscape in the middle of town. Portland is also home to two large rivers to further add to the attractive setting. Portland’s location in the middle of geographical wonders makes it an exceptionally beautiful city. There are ample opportunities for hiking in and around the city.
Waterfalls in the area are especially abundant. Despite the constant rain, locals prefer to bike their way around. And Mount Hood towers above, keeping a watch over the valley from a distance. On the street level, Portland is home to the best craft beer scene in the United States, with over 100 breweries. The city has also become a foodie haven, with 500 food carts/trucks around the city and a diversity of cuisine found in a few other places.
Portland, Oregon, is a city that is beautiful from afar due to its fortunate geographic location. That beauty extends to the city life in the local cuisine, abundance of bicycles and quirky vibe.
Suggested by John Paul from The Hangry Backpacker
Accommodation: Where to stay in Portland
The city of Naples on Florida’s southern Gulf Coast is without question one of the best cities in the US.
Naples celebrates its cultural heritage with beautiful Italian-styled architecture, a vibrant downtown, and many unique historic sites.
Roadways in the city are lined with palm and banyan trees, and the city enjoys beautiful weather year-round. Add in some of the most beautiful beaches and Naples becomes an ideal destination.
Getting to one of those beaches is usually at the top of the list of things to do in Naples. There’s no noisy boardwalk scene and beaches are easily accessed through quiet residential neighborhoods or at the famous Naples Pier.
After the beach, browse the many boutique shops along 5th Avenue or Third Street. The vibe in Naples is a unique blend of luxury meets casual beach vibe.
But don’t spend your entire holiday at the beach. Hiking in Naples along well-groomed walking trails and elevated boardwalks is great for the daytime exploration of the local ecosystem.
Places like Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park offer both a beautiful beach as well as a hiking trail along the ocean. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, boating, jet skis, and fishing are some of the most popular ways to get out on the warm, clear water of the Gulf.
Throughout the historic residential section of town, restored tropical-style beach houses are interspersed with million-dollar mansions that look straight out of Tuscany.
With all that it offers, there’s no doubt that Naples is one of the beautiful destinations in America and the crowning jewel on Florida’s Paradise Coast.
Suggested by Lori from Travlinmad
Accommodation: Where to stay in Naples
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Florida
Traveling to Dallas, TX, all year round is a good idea as the city has many attractions to offer as well as many cultural highlights.
The metropolis in the south is the third-largest city in Texas after Houston and San Antonio and one of the fastest growing cities in the US.
Dallas convinces with its versatility and cuisine. The barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine is world-famous and particularly pronounced in Dallas; there are more restaurants per capita than in New York!
The history goes back to the founding in 1841, from which it became very important for the cotton and oil industry with its strategic location on many railway lines.
On a trip to Dallas, you shouldn't miss a visit to the skyscrapers in downtown with the Bank of America Plaza, the Reunion Tower, the Renaissance Tower and the Dallas City Hall with its striking architecture.
A little off the beaten track is the creative district of Deep Ellum, famous for the jazz, blues and nowadays, the sprayer scene witnessed by many graffiti.
Successful sports teams like the Dallas Mavericks (NBA) and Dallas Cowboys (NFL) are based in the Texas metropolis; try to get tickets!
Since it can sometimes get over 40 ° C in summer, the spring and autumn months are recommended for a trip.
Suggested by Phil from Journication Travel Blog
Accommodation: Where to stay in Dallas
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Texas
San Francisco is one of the most-visited cities in the US. A city filled with architectural delights, coastal views, and festivals, making it one of the most popular destinations in the states.
Located in the state of California, the red Golden Gate Bridge is the iconic landmark of the city and deserves a spot on any San Francisco itinerary. Many tourists take the time to cross the bridge or embark on sightseeing cruises to enjoy the bridge from afar.
Other attractions in San Francisco City include the City Hall, SFMOMA, which is an art museum, Coit Tower, to name a few. The neighborhood of Alamo is very popular and is an excellent option for a picnic when the weather is nice and warm.
Definitely, a ride through the crooked Lombard Street is a must.
San Francisco is home to one of the oldest streetcars in the world, and it is quite popular with tourists for sightseeing and commutation.
The Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 is another famous San Francisco attraction that should not be missed. This is where walking and food tours are quite popular. Visitors can enjoy the promenade and learn about the history of the city.
One can also head to Alcatraz Island from here. Lastly, it is also a perfect base for taking day trips. Most easy and convenient day trips from San Francisco include Half Moon Bay, Napa Valley, Sausalito, Santa Cruz, to name a few!
Suggested by Mayuri from To Some Place New
Accommodation: Where to stay in San Francisco
Also Read: Best Things To Do in California
Tucson is one of the most underrated cities in the US, but if you love good food, desert and street art, it’s really worth visiting. Tucson is in Southern Arizona, 70 miles from the Mexican border – you’ll soon notice Mexican vibes all over town, you’ll never be far from a taco stand!
A weekend in Tucson is just enough time to enjoy the best of what this city has to offer. One of the best natural attractions is just outside the city – Saguaro National Park is divided into two parts, with Tucson sitting right in the middle.
This park is worth visiting for the monumental saguaros and the stunning desert landscapes. Saguaro West is the best section to visit if you want to see saguaros and desert views, whereas Saguaro East is a great option if you're going to hike.
Back in the city, make sure you take a walk downtown searching for fantastic street art pieces. The area surrounding 4th Avenue is full of street art – on Google, you’ll find maps highlighting the exact location of street art walls all over Tucson so that you can plan your perfect DIY street art tour.
If you get hungry, fear not – Tucson is one of the best places for Mexican food north of the border. A great stop is Tacos Apson, a no-nonsense taco stand where you’ll be surrounded by locals.
It specializes in tacos with barbecue meat, so take your pick between the pastor, carne asada, Costilla or many others. Just remember to order at least 3 or 4 – one will definitely not be enough!
Suggested by Margherita from The Crowded Planet
Accommodation: Where to stay in Tucson
Also Read: Best Things To Do in Arizona
Santa Fe, New Mexico, is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in America for many different reasons. It’s one of the most historic cities in the entire United States, as it was founded as a Spanish colony all the way back in 1610.
Even though it is New Mexico’s capital, it’s not as large as other cities in New Mexico, like Albuquerque, so it has still retained a quaint charm and small city feeling.
Santa Fe also has a beautiful setting right by the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which provide amazing views of fall foliage in the autumn and gorgeous ski slopes in the winter.
One of the best places to enjoy Santa Fe’s natural beauty is the world-famous Ten Thousand Waves Japanese-style spa. Guests can soak in natural hot springs and bask in the wonders of Santa Fe’s beautiful skies, day or night.
Santa Fe is also famously beautiful because of its artists. Canyon Road is one of the most famous artist enclaves in the entire country.
Nothing is more beautiful than strolling down Canyon Road, admiring the various galleries and seeing the stunning sculpture on display.
Perhaps the most beautiful thing about Santa Fe is the unique style of its architecture. Almost all buildings in the city need to be built in the Pueblo Revival style, and that means in a limited palette of colors like brown or white. This gives the city a magical charm that no other city in the United States can quite replicate.
Suggested by Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours
Accommodation: Where to stay in Santa Fe
Also Read: 10 Best Places to Visit in Santa Fe, NM