24 Most Beautiful Cities in the U.S. To Visit in Your Lifetime
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Some of the most beautiful cities in the United States, including New York, Seattle, and Sedona, offer an incredible variety of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Exploring the world around us is fascinating, but before venturing on a global adventure, we must look inward and explore our own country.
According to the US Census Bureau, there are over 19,000 incorporated cities and towns, so choosing which ones to visit can feel overwhelming.
The US alone is filled with some of the most stunning places that take your breath away. With a wild nightlife, mesmerizing scenic views, and tons of adrenaline-filled activities, exploring the cities here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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1. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a city of art, history, and ghosts, with people from across the globe coming to see all the spooky haunted places here. This magnificent city is dream-like with its natural beauty and architecture that will leave you wanting more.
Visit the Oatland Island Wildlife Center, an animal sanctuary, or Enmarket Arena for a riveting concert, or you can even go on a ghost tour if you’re in for a thrilling escapade to the land of the dead.
Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World
2. Anchorage, Alaska
With snow-capped peaks in the distance and glistening waters filled with salmon and beautiful glaciers that will leave you enchanted, Anchorage is nothing short of perfect. You’ll find various activities ranging from bike tours to brew tours to a city-wide exploration.
If you’re not into guided tours, don’t worry because you can head to see glaciers on a kayak or enjoy one of the many treks with panoramic views.
Read also: Charming Small Towns Around the World
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is the American dream, with tall buildings hovering over you and the vibrant hustle and bustle of people at night. The city is home to over 60 museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, and many more.
If you’re visiting the place, try their delicious deep-dish pizza and enjoy a performance of their award-winning theaters sprawled across the area, like The Chicago Theatre.
Read also: Gorgeous Small Towns in Europe
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
When you think of Las Vegas, the first thing that pops into your mind is raging casinos and gigantic luxury hotels, but the place is more than just that.
When everyone is throwing their hard-earned money down the drain, you can visit the Aria Fine Art Collection with stunning contemporary art pieces or Area 15 with a zip line to waltz in with and a unique collection of magnificent art statues.
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Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the US
5. Seattle, Washington
With the perfect blend of natural beauty, modern art and architecture, Seattle should be at the top of your bucket list as a traveler. It has something for everyone, which makes it very diverse.
If you’re an art lover, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Gallery is perfect, with its glass landscapes breathed to life by the infamous Dale Chihuly. If you have a thing for adventure, you can explore Lake Union in a Hot Tub Boat. The options are limitless.
Read also: Must-Visit Cities in the World
6. Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah’s capital, Salt Lake City, is one of the best places to visit for those who want a complete holiday adventure. With striking blue skies and cotton candy mountains, the area is straight out of a Netflix movie. Places like Thanksgiving Point, with a whopping 55 acres of luscious gardens and vibrant flowers, add to the overall experience.
You shouldn’t miss out on the Clark Planetarium, which has an IMAX theater and a 3D sky show that will leave your mouth hanging wide open.
Read also: American Towns with Spectacular Spring Blossoms
7. San Antonio, Texas
One of the USA’s oldest cities, San Antonio is every traveler’s dream. The city has been influenced by many cultures, from Spanish to German to American, which can be seen throughout the area.
For a romantic and intimate experience, head to Brackenridge Park, which has stone bridges and natural shade that make the whole place stand out. You can also explore the San Antonio Zoo, with more than 300 species of animals.
Read also: Fascinating US Destinations for Art Lovers
8. San Francisco, California
From the divine Golden Gate Bridge to the Muir Woods National Monument with its ancient trees, San Francisco is more mesmerizing than words can explain. This cosmopolitan little hub of beauty is home to contemporary art galleries, such as the Anglim Gilbert Gallery, historical landmarks, and comfort food that will satiate your need for a hearty meal. Don’t miss out on Chinatown or Sutro Baths with a view of the vast Pacific waters.
Read also: American Hidden Gems
9. Madison, Wisconsin
Nothing describes Madison better than a national treasure. With places like the Lost City Forest that showcase the natural glory of the city and the Royal Thai Pavilion reeking with culture and stunning architecture, Madison does it all. You can even go for a swim in the pristine lakes here.
Read also: US Road Trips
10. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston proves that history and culture can be mixed with a unique modern vibe to make the perfect city. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum houses 2,700 books and over 8,000 historic objects. This charming location, coupled with street food made into luxury at the High Street Place, makes Boston one of the finest cities in the US.
Check out the renowned Lookout Rooftop Bar that lives up to the hype with the most epic view and top-notch services.
Read also: Historic US Towns
11. Honolulu, Hawaii
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Honolulu’s gorgeous beaches and clear waters stretching for miles, such as the famous Waikiki Beach or the top-rated Kahanamoku Beach. Explore the world below as you snorkel underwater and enjoy the dolphins minding their business. The city even has dolphin tours if you miss seeing them yourself.
The dormant volcano, Diamond Head State Monument, is one of the most staggering sites, so be sure to add it to your itinerary.
Read also: Top Tropical Destinations
12. Charleston, South Carolina
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One of the best vacation spots in the entire country, Charleston is postcard-perfect. Whether you head to the Riley Waterfront Park for a cozy picnic or enjoy a peaceful walk down Rainbow Row, you will have the best time. The most stunning place here is the Angel Oak Tree, a phenomenal site with its frayed branches intricately woven and sheer grandeur.
Read also: US Cities With Interesting Nightlife
13. New York City, New York
Everyone has heard about New York, but only a few experienced this gorgeous city. Instead of jumping on the tourist bandwagon and going straight to the Statue of Liberty, explore other hidden gems native to the town.
Visit Artech House for an immersive digital art experience that is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or truly marvel at the city’s gigantic buildings at Bryant Park. Don’t forget to splurge at SoHo on your trip.
Read also: Insta-Worthy Spots in the US
14. Naples, Florida
Tropical Naples is home to the finest beaches, gleaming waters, and recreational activities to get your heart pumping for 9 miles. The best way to bask in the city’s beauty is to enjoy an orange-hued sunset at one of the many beaches.
Vacations are incomplete without delicious food that you can dive into at The Bay House. Naples Botanical Garden will cast a spell on your heart with more than a thousand flora species that are simply magnificent.
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15. Asheville, North Carolina
Attracting tourists worldwide, Asheville is lined with mountains, making it a serene and peaceful area. Visit the vast Biltmore Estate, a rustic mansion built in 1895, or enjoy an eclectic show featuring local talent at The Grey Eagle Music Hall.
If you genuinely want to enjoy the greenery and undulating plains in the skyline, you should rent a bike and head to the Mountains-To-Sea Trail, accessible from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Read also: Best Places to Visit in North Carolina
16. Key West, Florida
With a vast array of top-notch beaches and beautiful sunsets sprawled across the blue sky, Key West is nothing short of a fairy tale. In the city’s heart, you’ll find Mallory Square, which has several performers and places to enjoy heavenly food as you look at the scenic view.
The place is also home to limitless bars that are a must-visit for people over 21. Don’t miss out on the butterfly conservatory, which has adorable flamingoes.
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17. Hilo, Hawaii
Many tourists visit Hawaii, and it certainly lives up to the hype. The city of Hilo is one of the best places to visit in this state because of how wonderful it is. With things like the Akaka Falls waterfall that will make your jaw drop to Coconut Island, where you can swim in the divine water to the green and luscious Hamakua Coast, this place is perfect for people wanting to destress from their daily routine.
Read also: Underrated Tropical Destinations
18. Sedona, Arizona
The red rock formations of Sedona are unbeatable and will leave you awe-struck when you visit the city. From hiking atop the Bell Rock to crossing the extremely scary Devil’s Bridge to enjoying the Red Rock Scenic Byway, this is a dream come true for adrenaline junkies. There’s a road that crosses straight through the Oak Creek Canyon, which has natural waterfalls that make you want to stay here forever.
Read also: Incredible Wilderness Areas in the US
19. Seward, Alaska
Though Seward is a small coastal city, it certainly is a top spot for nature lovers. One of the best things to do here is to enjoy a wildlife cruise where you’ll witness dolphins, sea eagles, sea lions, and adorable little mountain goats. It will also take you to the National Park Glacier, where you can play with penguins and enjoy the gorgeous view.
Read also: Incredible Coastal Drives
20. Morrison, Colorado
Morrison might be tiny, but it has numerous things to do and perfect views. The infamous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is surrounded by gigantic red rocks and boulders, attracting people from everywhere. You can also visit the Dinosaur Ridge and learn about the species while looking at some of the oldest fossils.
Read also: Iconic Places in the World
21. Nashville, Tennessee
With a long-standing reputation for being the hub of country music, Nashville also has scenic views that make it stand out. Historical landmarks like the Parthenon, built in 1897, are spread out across the area, with street art and delicious food to satiate your inner food lover. Check out the rooftop bar at the Bobby Hotel, which offers a magnificent view and seating area.
Read also: Hidden Romantic Getaways
22. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a UNESCO world heritage site known for its cheesesteaks and the Liberty Bell. This city has it all with its Please Touch Museum, made especially for children, the grand Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Franklin Institute for Science geeks. For a delicious cup of perfectly brewed coffee and a mind-boggling view, check out Rittenhouse Square.
Read also: European Cities for Solo Travelers
23. Telluride, Colorado
If you’re one for adventure in the wild, then Telluride is the place for you. Home to the magnificent Bridal Veil Falls and the fun-filled ski resort, this city will leave you awestruck by its snow-capped mountains in the winter and gushing waterfalls in the summer. The best way to experience the place in the cold is to take a snowmobile tour and have an experience unlike before.
Read also: Relaxing US Mountain Getaways
24. Portland, Maine
Portland is home to the grand Portland Observatory, which has a complete 360-degree view of the entire city that is to die for. If you travel downtown, you’ll witness the cobblestone streets and red brick structures that make for a perfect Instagram-worthy picture. Don’t miss out on Luke’s Lobster for some mouth-watering succulent seafood that will make your stomach happy.
Read also: Amazing Hidden Towns in the US
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