If you’re planning your next road trip or fancy getting away for a weekend, be sure to consider these 18 cities, which Americans say are the most beautiful. Each one has its own unique charm, amazing views, and lively culture, showing the diverse range of natural and architectural beauty across the U.S.
San Francisco, California
Golden Gate Park is larger than Central Park and features incredible attractions such as the Conservatory of Flowers and the Japanese Tea Garden. Lonely Planet says, “You could wander the park for a week and still not see it all.” The city also has vibrant neighborhoods, including the oldest Chinatown in North America.
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston’s historic district is lined with cobblestone streets and is known for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, which gives it a traditional southern charm. There is also a selection of beautiful gardens, such as Magnolia Plantations, one of the oldest plantations in the South.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is famous for its 22 historic squares, each of which has its own unique monuments, all surrounded by oak trees. The city also has some amazing examples of 18th and 19th-century antebellum architecture along its cobblestone streets, including the Owens-Thomas House.
Honolulu, Hawaii
According to Go Hawaii, Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and “boasts more than four million visitors every year and breathtaking views of Lēʻahi (Diamond Head).” There are also plenty of opportunities for panoramic views of the Ko’olau Mountains from the Pali Lookout.
Seattle, Washington
The waterfront has great views of Puget Sound, and on clear days, you can see the peak of Mount Rainier. There are also large green spaces to enjoy the fresh air, including Discovery Park, where you can walk along various trails, and Pike Place Market.
Boston, Massachusetts
The Freedom Trail is the perfect way to take in the historic sites of Boston, as the 2.5-mile-long path passes 16 places of significance. There are also plenty of picturesque neighborhoods in Boston, including Beacon Hill, which is known for its narrow, gas-lit streets and brick sidewalks.
New Orleans, Louisiana
A unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole architecture, New Orleans’s French Quarter is famous for its colorful buildings and iron balconies. Cosmopolitan says, “Founded in 1718, it’s also the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans and therefore the historic heart of the city, filled with relics and well-preserved architecture that date back centuries.”
Aspen, Colorado
Surrounded by the Elk Mountains, Aspen has fantastic skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, making it the ideal place for those who love the great outdoors. The town itself features high-end boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining to enjoy once you’ve worked up an appetite in the mountains.
Miami, Florida
Miami’s South Beach is known for its stunning white sand beaches and lively nightlife. It also has a collection of pastel-colored Art Deco buildings from the 1930s and 1940s. The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens has a range of impressive gardens, including the Italian Renaissance gardens and native woodland landscapes.
San Diego, California
San Diego has a breathtaking coastline that visitors love, and beaches such as La Jolla Cove are famous for their clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling and diving. The city itself is rich in history, and the Gaslamp Quarter is a great place to visit for Victorian buildings and cultural events.
Portland, Oregon
Portland has some fantastic green spaces to explore, including Washington Park, which features a zoo, arboretum, and rose garden, as well as the Portland Japanese Garden, where visitors can explore tranquil gardens and fascinating exhibits. The city also has beautiful views of the Willamette River and surrounding mountains.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is famous for its innovative architecture and towering skyscrapers, which dominate the skyline. Visitors to the city can enjoy these buildings and scenic views of the Chicago River on the Riverwalk, which “contains restaurants during the summer months, seating areas to relax, boat rentals, and theater-style seating for various performances,” according to Enjoy Illinois.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Known for its Pueblo-style architecture, Santa Fe’s central square is a historic area of the city that hosts markets and cultural events throughout the year. Canyon Road is another famous area of the city, ideal for visiting art galleries, studios, and unique shops.
Napa Valley, California
There is no lack of vineyards and wineries in Napa Valley, and Americans love the rolling hills and countryside landscapes they sit within. There are also numerous quaint towns, such as St. Helena and Yountville, each with boutique shops and gourmet restaurants along their charming streets.
Sedona, Arizona
Outdoor enthusiasts love to visit Sedona because of the hiking trails, such as Cathedral Rock, that offer breathtaking views of the red rock landscapes in the area. There are also more incredible views along Oak Creek Canyon and Slide Rock State Park, which is known for its natural water slides.
Washington, D.C.
Aside from the iconic sites of the National Mall, Washington has some great historic neighborhoods to explore, including Georgetown and Capitol Hill. There are also scenic parks and gardens to enjoy some fresh air, such as the Tidal Basin, which is famous for its cherry blossoms, and Rock Creek Park.
Anchorage, Alaska
Surrounded by the Chugach Mountains, Anchorage has impressive views as well as the opportunity for various outdoor activities. Churchgate State Park is one of the largest in the U.S. and is a fantastic space for hiking along its many trails, photography, and spotting native wildlife.
Austin, Texas
Lady Bird Lake is just one of the beautiful waterfront areas Austin has to offer and is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon of kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking. Zilker Park is another fantastic outdoor area in the city, and visitors can explore the botanical gardens and Springs Pool.
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