That sounds like the introduction to a U.S. News “Best U.S. Cities to Visit” ranking. If you’re asking for my favorite, I don’t have personal preferences, but I can point to cities that stand out for different reasons:
Boston – Colonial history, prestigious universities, and compact, walkable neighborhoods.
New York City – Unmatched for museums, Broadway, dining, and iconic landmarks.
Chicago – Exceptional architecture, lakefront parks, world-class food, and a vibrant arts scene.
New Orleans – Rich history, live jazz, distinctive cuisine, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
San Francisco – Famous scenery, diverse neighborhoods, and easy access to nearby natural attractions.
Charleston – Historic charm, excellent restaurants, and walkable streets.
Seattle – Coffee culture, waterfront views, and a gateway to the Pacific Northwest.
New York City
#1 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit
With its sheer variety of cultural attractions, culinary offerings and iconic landmarks, it’s no surprise that the nation’s most populated city crowns this list. Beyond must-see tourist landmarks like Central Park and the Empire State Building, New York City is home to a range of museums sure to please any vacationer – from the Intrepid Museum for transportation-loving toddlers (or adults) to the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art for creative types. New York’s nightlife is also bursting with big-city energy, from musicals on Broadway to buzzy clubs in the East Village.
Washington, D.C.
#2 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit
As the capital city of the U.S., Washington, D.C.’s educational merits are unmatched. From the city’s 17 Smithsonian museums to its many monuments and memorials paying tribute to the nation’s history, tourists could fill weeks taking it all in. Beyond these world-famous attractions lie quaint neighborhoods, vibrant late-night haunts and a multifaceted culinary landscape. Visitors can head to the popular U Street or Adams Morgan areas for their tasty restaurants and lively bar scenes or stroll through the charming streets of Georgetown, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, to take in its Federal-style architecture.
Honolulu – Oahu
#3 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit
If you’re torn between a beach vacation and an urban adventure, choose a destination that covers both. Hawaii’s capital boasts some of the state’s best beaches, including scenic Waikīkī Beach, along with a substantial dose of history and heritage. Attractions like ‘Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum showcase Hawaii’s roots, while traditions like a hi’uwai ceremony can connect you to its spiritual side. Plus, epic treks like Lē’ahi (Diamond Head State Monument) will keep hikers busy. When you’ve worked up an appetite, Honolulu’s patchwork of global flavors tantalizes visitors with everything from traditional Hawaiian fare to French fine dining.
#4 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit
One of the most influential cities in American history, Boston offers up numerous historic attractions along the Freedom Trail, from the Paul Revere House to Faneuil Hall Marketplace. The Massachusetts capital also has the oldest public park (Boston Common) and the oldest baseball stadium (Fenway Park) in the U.S. Beyond Boston’s storied past, this city is beloved for its walkability, collegiate energy and activities that vary with its four distinct seasons. Today, Boston continues to entice visitors with a host of trendy restaurants and nightlife options that range from upscale cocktail bars to raucous Irish pubs.
Chicago
#5 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit
This Midwestern hub has industrial roots, but with its Gilded Age architecture and Lake Michigan sparkling along its eastern edge, Chicago has no shortage of glam. Since each Chicago neighborhood has its own strong identity, you’ll never run out of things to see. Sports fans can surround themselves with baseball history in Wrigleyville, artsy types can explore the hip Wicker Park area and sightseers keen on checking off the classics can head to the Loop for Millennium Park or the Museum Campus. And with evening entertainment options ranging from live jazz venues to rooftop bars, you can continue your exploration well into the wee hours.
