The United States is a country of remarkable diversity, offering travelers a wealth of experiences across its vast landscapes and bustling urban centers. From the neon lights of iconic cities to the quiet charm of historic towns, the best cities to tour in the USA cater to a wide array of interests and tastes. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant cultural scenes, rich history, stunning natural beauty, or culinary delights, the following cities should be on your travel itinerary.
In this article, 123 Review dives deep into what makes these destinations unique, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.
Most Popular Tourist Cities
New York City: The City That Never Sleeps
New York City is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. As one of the most iconic cities in the world, NYC offers something for everyone. The energy of Times Square, with its bright lights and nonstop action, epitomizes the city’s dynamic spirit. Central Park provides a green oasis in the heart of Manhattan, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk, a boat ride, or even a visit to the Central Park Zoo.
For art lovers, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art are must-see attractions, offering world-class collections that span centuries and continents. Broadway, the pinnacle of live theater, offers an array of shows from blockbuster musicals to cutting-edge plays. And no trip to New York is complete without visiting the Empire State Building, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, or taking a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, symbols of freedom and immigration that tell the story of America’s past.
Beyond the landmarks, New York’s neighborhoods each offer their own distinct flavor. Explore the historic streets of Greenwich Village, the hipster vibes of Williamsburg, or the cultural melting pot of Queens, where you can taste cuisine from virtually every country in the world.
Los Angeles: The Entertainment Capital
Los Angeles is synonymous with the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. Hollywood, with its Walk of Fame and the iconic Hollywood Sign, draws millions of visitors each year. The TCL Chinese Theatre is another must-see, where you can view the handprints and footprints of movie stars. For a behind-the-scenes look at film and TV production, a tour of Universal Studios offers thrilling rides and sets from famous movies.
Beyond Hollywood, Los Angeles offers a diverse range of attractions. The Getty Center, perched on a hill with stunning views of the city, boasts an impressive art collection, beautiful gardens, and striking architecture. For beach lovers, Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach offer sun, sand, and a quintessential California experience, with their lively boardwalks and ocean views.
Los Angeles is also a city of neighborhoods, each with its own character. Beverly Hills is known for its luxury shopping and celebrity sightings, while downtown LA has become a hub for arts, dining, and culture. The multicultural neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Boyle Heights offer rich cultural experiences and some of the best food in the city.
Chicago: The Windy City Experience
Chicago, with its stunning skyline along Lake Michigan, is a city that combines architectural marvels with a rich cultural scene. The city’s architecture is best appreciated on an architecture river cruise, which takes you through the heart of the city, offering views of landmark buildings like the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center.
Millennium Park is another highlight, home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as “The Bean”), as well as outdoor concerts and public art installations. The Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, featuring a vast collection that includes iconic works like Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.”
Chicago’s food scene is legendary, with deep-dish pizza being a must-try. But the city also offers diverse culinary options, from gourmet dining in the West Loop to the ethnic cuisines of neighborhoods like Pilsen and Chinatown. Don’t miss the chance to catch a live jazz or blues performance—Chicago is one of the birthplaces of these genres and continues to be a hotspot for live music.
Historical Cities to Explore
Washington, D.C.: The Nation’s Capital
Washington, D.C. is more than just the political heart of the United States; it’s a city rich in history, culture, and national pride. The National Mall, often referred to as “America’s Front Yard,” is lined with some of the nation’s most iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Each of these sites offers a poignant reminder of the country’s history and the people who have shaped it.
The Smithsonian Institution, which consists of 19 museums, galleries, and the National Zoo, is an unparalleled cultural resource. From the National Museum of American History to the Air and Space Museum, each institution offers free admission and a deep dive into various aspects of the American experience.
A visit to the U.S. Capitol and the White House provides a glimpse into the workings of the American government. For those interested in the judiciary, the Supreme Court is also open to visitors. Beyond its political and historical significance, Washington, D.C. boasts vibrant neighborhoods like Georgetown, known for its cobblestone streets and historic homes, and the U Street Corridor, a hub for nightlife and jazz music.
Philadelphia: The Birthplace of America
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, holds a special place in American history as the birthplace of the nation. Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any history enthusiast. The nearby Liberty Bell, with its iconic crack, remains a symbol of freedom and independence.
Philadelphia’s historic district offers more than just these famous landmarks. The Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley (the oldest residential street in the U.S.), and the Museum of the American Revolution provide a deeper understanding of the city’s role in the nation’s founding.
Philadelphia is also a city of firsts—the country’s first hospital, first university, and first zoo are all located here. For art lovers, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (famous for the “Rocky Steps”) and the Barnes Foundation offer world-class collections. And of course, no visit to Philly is complete without trying a cheesesteak from one of the city’s legendary sandwich shops.
Boston: A Step Back in Time
Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the oldest cities in the United States and offers visitors a rich tapestry of history, culture, and education. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through the city, connects 16 historically significant sites, including the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, and the site of the Boston Massacre. Walking the Freedom Trail is like stepping back in time to the days of the American Revolution.
Boston’s historic neighborhoods, such as Beacon Hill and the North End, retain their 18th-century charm with narrow streets, brick sidewalks, and gas lamps. The city’s waterfront is another highlight, with the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum offering an interactive experience of the famous event that sparked the American Revolution.
Beyond history, Boston is a hub of education and culture. It’s home to prestigious universities like Harvard and MIT, and cultural institutions like the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of Fine Arts. The city’s sports culture is also legendary, with Fenway Park being a pilgrimage site for baseball fans.
Cities Known for Natural Beauty
San Francisco: Iconic Views and Golden Gate
San Francisco, California, is a city that captivates with its stunning views, iconic landmarks, and unique charm. The Golden Gate Bridge, often shrouded in fog, is one of the most photographed bridges in the world and offers spectacular views whether you’re driving, walking, or cycling across it.
Alcatraz Island, once a notorious federal prison, is another must-visit. The island’s tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the prisoners and the history of the prison. Fisherman’s Wharf is a popular area for tourists, offering attractions like Pier 39, where you can watch sea lions basking in the sun, or take a ferry to nearby Sausalito.
San Francisco’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own distinct vibe. The Mission District is known for its vibrant murals and Latino culture, Chinatown is the largest outside of Asia and offers a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and tastes, and Haight-Ashbury remains a symbol of the 1960s counterculture movement. Don’t miss a ride on the city’s famous cable cars, which offer a unique way to see the city’s steep hills and historic areas.
For those who love nature, San Francisco is a gateway to some of California’s most beautiful landscapes. A short drive north takes you to Muir Woods National Monument, home to towering redwoods, while a trip to Napa Valley offers world-renowned wine tasting in a picturesque setting.
Seattle: Gateway to Nature
Seattle, Washington, is a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The city’s skyline is dominated by the Space Needle, which offers panoramic views of Seattle, the Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains. Nearby, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and the Chihuly Garden and Glass provide unique cultural experiences that reflect the city’s innovative spirit.
Pike Place Market is one of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, where visitors can watch fishmongers toss fresh catches, browse local crafts, and sample some of the best coffee in the city at the original Starbucks. Seattle’s waterfront, with its ferries and seafood restaurants, is another must-visit, offering stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
Seattle is also a hub for nature lovers. The city is surrounded by water, mountains, and evergreen forests, making it a gateway to outdoor adventures. Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, and the San Juan Islands are all within a few hours’ drive, offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, like Capitol Hill and Fremont, or venturing into the wilderness, Seattle offers a unique blend of urban and natural beauty.
Miami: Sun, Sand, and Culture
Miami, Florida, is a city that pulses with energy, color, and a distinct blend of cultures. Famous for its Art Deco architecture, South Beach is the epitome of Miami’s vibrant style, with pastel-colored buildings lining the oceanfront. The beach itself is a hotspot for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching, with its wide stretches of sand and turquoise waters.
Beyond the beach, Miami’s cultural scene is thriving. Little Havana, the heart of Miami’s Cuban community, offers a taste of Cuban culture with its cigar shops, coffee windows, and lively street festivals. The Wynwood Walls is an outdoor museum showcasing large-scale works by some of the world’s best street artists, reflecting the city’s creative spirit.
Miami is also a gateway to natural wonders. The nearby Everglades National Park offers a unique ecosystem of wetlands, where visitors can take airboat tours to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. For a more laid-back experience, the Florida Keys, just a short drive from Miami, offer a tropical paradise with coral reefs, clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
Conclusion
The best cities to tour in the USA offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from the bustling streets of New York to the historic charm of Boston, the natural beauty of San Francisco, and the cultural melting pot of Miami. Each city provides its own unique flavor, ensuring that no matter where you go, you’ll find something that captivates your interest and enriches your travel experience. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a cross-country adventure, these cities should be at the top of your list, offering memories that will last a lifetime.
