The US is full of a diverse set of people, cultures, and landscapes. For this reason, it is possible to experience so much variety when visiting cities across the country. There is so much variety, where do you even begin? I can help with that!

This post provides a list of the best US cities to visit, and key points that you should know about each. Each city is listed under its corresponding US region (east to west) and includes details on the city’s characteristics, Popular Attractions, and, of course, the best food to try.

New England

New England is the easternmost northern region in the US. This region has been known as New England since John Smith (yes, that John) named it so in 1616. Many of the earliest settlers to this region came from eastern Europe, which has given this region a distinct accent, architecture, and cuisine.

1 | Boston, MA

Boston is the largest city in New England, and one of the oldest in the US. Given the age of the city, it has a lot of really cool older buildings from the 17th century and onward and some cobblestone streets to match. Many of the literary greats that you learned about in school lived in or around the city, giving the nickname as the “intellectual capital of the United States”. There is also a great emphasis on the arts and music throughout the city as well.

Popular Attractions:

• The Freedom Trail: Walking this trail will allow you to retrace the steps the US founding fathers took when starting the American Revolutionary War.
• The New England Aquarium: Visit this aquarium to see over 800 different marine animals, including seals, penguins, and sharks.
• Cambridge, Concord, and Lexington: Venture right outside the city to see famous sites from the Revolutionary War and the homes of famous literary greats, like Louisa May Alcott.

What to Eat:

Boston is known for having wonderful seafood, baked beans, and the wonderful Boston cream pie! There are also a lot of great vegan restaurants for those of your veggies out there.

A few restaurants to try include:

• The Warren Tavern – Eat all the classic Bostonian foods at this eatery.
• Panza: Italian food from the North End area, which is similar to Little Italy in NYC.

2 | Portland, Maine

One of the most underrated cities in the Northeast is Portland, Maine. With so many opportunities to explore the stunning coastline and incredible culinary scene, it has everything else you’d expect in an exciting city like museums, history and culture. 

Getting out onto the water is easy in Portland, and this is also one of the best ways to see the city from a unique perspective. There are lots of options for boat tours along Casco Bay that also give you a glimpse of Maine’s famous coastline. From cruises on tall ships to lobster boat tours, there’s a little something for everyone. 

Popular Attractions & Tours:

• Old Port: To get a sense of the history of the city, one of the best neighborhoods to stroll through is Old Port. Sitting along the waterfront, you’ll find cobblestone streets, historic buildings and unique boutiques in this area. 
• While in the area, consider the Old Port Culinary Walking Tour. This will help you explore the best local restaurants serving traditional fare.
• Visit a Lighthouse: Portland is also home to one of Maine’s most iconic attractions, Portland Head Lighthouse. Located in South Portland, this is one of the best spots to take in the dramatic coastline views that the state is known for, without having to leave the city! Also nearby are two smaller, but equally as cool, lighthouses: Spring Point Ledge Light and Bug Light.

What to Eat: 

Portland is also regarded as one of the top foodie cities in the country, so during your visit, you’ll want to consider taking an expert-guided food tour to find all the best things to eat. Whether it’s a donut tour or lobster roll tour, this is the perfect way to get acquainted with the cuisine in the city.

• Duckfat: This sandwich shop is best known for frying french fries in duck fat, and has received quite the reputation for delicious fries. In addition you find plenty of paninis, milkshakes, and salads to make a full and delicious meal. 
• Chaval: This is a brasserie (informal French restaurant) that offers not only French but Spanish-inspired seasonal food. What’s cool about this restaurant is that the menu changes daily – you never know quite what you’ll get! 
• Not only is the food scene here world-class, it’s also home to the most breweries per capita than any other city in the Northeast. So if you love to sample local brews, you won’t run out of options in Portland. A few of the best ones to consider are Bissel Brothers, Goodfire and Rising Tide. 

Mid-Atlantic

This region sits below New England, and above the southern US states. It is characterized by large urbanized areas, prestigious universities, and for being the most-affluent region of the country. There are 30 professional sport franchises in this region, and a wide variety of cultures and accents can be found throughout the states in this region.

3 | New York, NY

NYC has an energy that you can’t find anywhere else in the world. There is reason why its been called the “city that never sleeps” – you can find something to do at any time of the day, 24/7 and the pace never slows. It is the most populous city in the US, and likely the most diverse ethnically as well. The city has been denoted by some as the cultural capital of the world due to the emphasis you’ll find on the performing arts, music, cuisine.

While you are here, don’t just get stuck in Times Square. See world-famous skyscrapers, try the best pizza you’ll eat anywhere in the country, and get some quiet time in Central Park all in a matter of minutes while you are here. 

Popular Attractions:

• New York One World Observatory: Visit the new World Trade Center building for sweeping view of the city, and visit the nearby memorial to 911.
• The Statue of Liberty: This icon of America is rightfully one of the city’s most popular destinations. Visit the close by Ellis Island on the same ticket to get a better understanding of the life and experiences of early immigrants to the city.
• The Met: See why the Metropolitan Museum of Art is world renowned for its fabulous art collection

What to Eat:

• Lombardi’s: AKA America’s first pizzeria has great pizza pies – simple, yet delicious
• Molly’s Cupcakes: So not exactly a restaurant, per se, but this place as wonderful cupcakes. I try to stop here every time I come to the city.

4 | Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia has held on to a lot of its colonial charm, giving it a feel more similar to New England than others in the Mid-Atlantic. This city is full of history, as are many of the others listed here, mostly due to its role as the original capital of the US and the site where the Declaration of Independence was signed. The city has 67 historic landmarks, and 1 UNESCO World Heritage site, just for reference. The city is also home to the iconic steps from Rocky, which you can run up and down too, if so desired.

Popular Attractions:

• Founding Fathers Historical Walking Tour: See sites such as the Independence Mall, Ben Franklin’s home, the first home of the US Presidents, and more!
• Eastern State Penitentiary: Tour what was once the most famous and expensive prison in the world.
• Segway Mural Tour: If street art interests you, take this tour to see all of the cities best-known murals. They can be found everywhere and are really quite something to see!

Where to Eat:

• Joe’s Steaks: Stop here to get the famous Philly Cheesesteak – No trip to Philly is complete without at least one!
• Beiler’s Doughnuts: So, I’m not a huge doughnut person, but these are everything! Dense and cakey with a variety of toppings – these are just perfect.

5 | Washington, DC

Washington, DC is the city that I call home, and I love it here! Despite being best known for its political scene, the city is (thankfully) so much more than that. Full of great (and free!) museums, parks, and restaurants, this city is one full of heart. Although it is a big(ish) city, the low skyline keeps it having a smaller town feel than NYC or Boston, for example.

The city is home to a diverse population, like many urban areas on the east coast. Unlike many of the other cities, however, there really is no distinct accent here or specific food identified with the city. It’s really just a wonderful mix of everything :).

You could go the political route and focus on seeing sites like the White House and Congress, or get lost in the many free Smithsonian museums found along the National Mall.

Popular Attractions:

• Mt. Vernon: Head right outside the city to see George Washington’s estate and learn a lot about the lives of the slaves who kept it running.
• DC Night Monuments Tour: I think that seeing the monuments at night is really the best way to do it (don’t worry, they are all well lit :)).
• Capitol Hill Walking Tour: Really the best way to see the major sites and understand the history if you’re interested in learning about politics in the city, past and present.

Where to Eat:

• Léziz Cafe & Restaurant: Get great Turkish/Mediterranean food here – tapas style!
• Lincoln: If you’re looking for American, stop here for American-style tapas.
• Georgetown Cupcakes: I mean, if you don’t stop here, did you even visit DC?

Midwest

The Midwest is known as “America’s Heartland”, as it is responsible for the majority of the country’s manufacturing and farming sectors. It is known for friendly locals, low-cost real estate, and a low-stress lifestyle (in general). The states covered in this region go as far north as North Dakota / Minnesota and as far south as Kansas and Missouri. This means the temperatures you’ll find here will vary widely. But some of the most brutal winters in the states happen in the more northern states in this region.

6 | Chicago, IL

Chicago is a beautiful city, which has a distinct look due to it positioning by Lake Michigan and around the Chicago River. Chicago is known for its massive skyscrapers, brutal windchill in winter, and deep dish pizzas. Chicago is a hugely popular tourist destination, and is the second most visited city in the US, after New York.

Popular Attractions:

• Willis Tower: Visit what was once known as the Sears Tower, and the tallest building in the world for 25 years. Here you can stand on “The Ledge” and look down 100 stories at the streets beneath your feet.
• Night River Cruise: Marvel at the architecture that has made the city famous while you travel through downtown on an evening river cruise.
• Gangsters and Ghosts Walking Tour: Walk the Chicago Loop and learn the fascinating history of the gangsters who once ran the streets of the city and those who may now haunt the city too. (Nothing like a good ghost tour, right?)

Where to Eat:

• Bartoli’s Pizza: Stop here to grab a bite of that deep dish pizza the city is so well-known. Unless you are a big eater, I recommend sharing these. These pizza’s are delicious, but that deep dish is DEEP. 
• Lula Cafe: For locally-grown food cooked in an artisenal style, stop at this cafe. This restaurant features a vegetarian and vegan options too.

The South

The definition of the south varies according to who you talk to, but for the intents of this post, we’ll say it starts as high up as Virginia and goes from the east coast to as far west as Mississippi. This area is characterized by its slow pace of life, sprawling cities, southern charm, and delicious fatty foods.

7 | Savannah, Georgia

If you’re looking for the perfect mix of a quaint city, historic sites, beautiful nature, and a quick drive to the beach, Savannah, Georgia is the place for you. Whether you’re visiting Savannah with kids, adults, or even by yourself, this city has something for everyone to enjoy.

When visiting Savannah, spend time exploring the city and enjoying each unique square along the way. Marvel at the beauty of the huge oak trees at Forsyth Park and walk along the historic River Street. To learn more about the city’s history, take a riverboat and trolley tour. 

Once you’re done checking out the historic downtown area, take a short drive to Tybee Island. Here, you’ll be able to take a break from the city and relax on the beach.

Popular Attractions & Tours:

• Savannah Riverboat Cruise & City Tour: This tour includes a guided walkthrough of the city via trolley and then a cruise down the Savannah River. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the history and culture of the city.
• Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters: This historic home provides a pointed look at the life of the slaves and the proprietors who lived here in the early 1800s. 

What to Eat:

• When you’re ready for a bite to eat, grab lunch at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room. But make sure to arrive early, as reservations cannot be made, and a line will start to form even before the restaurant opens for the day. Make friends with your neighbors while waiting in line because that’s who you’ll be sitting with at this family-style restaurant.
• For a sweet treat, stop by Leopold’s for homemade ice cream. This ice cream shop has been around since 1919 and is a staple in the heart of Savannah.

8 | Orlando, FL

Orlando, known as “The City Beautiful”, is probably best known as pretty much the mecca for theme parks in the United States. With its very mild winters, it is great for a visit any time of the year. In addition to theme parks, you’ll find good outlet shopping and industrial and hi-tech centers.

Popular Attractions:

• Kennedy Space Center: Learn about the history of the space program and what its like to be a real astronaut at KSC.
• Walt Disney World: Visit the most visited them parks in the world! The parks include the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. (There are 2 water parks too!)
• Universal Orlando: Ride the movies at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Universal Bay.

Where to Eat:

• Rainforest Cafe: One of my favorite themed restaurants the rainforest has pretty decent food and provides a unique experience to those who dine there. There is one in the Disney Springs area in Orlando.
• Tony’s Town Square Restaurant: Based on the classic movie “Lady and the Tramp”, this Italian spot is one of my favorite restaurants in Disney World. You’ll find this one right off of Main Street in the Magic Kingdom.

9 | Miami, FL

When you think of Miami, you likely think of hot weather, white sand, clear waters, parties, and latin-infused culture. Miami offers all of this, plus great food and beautiful views. Miami has the third tallest skyline in the US, and is a major center for finance, culture, commerce, and media/entertainment.

Popular Attractions:

• South Beach Food Tour: This tour provides a history of the city and takes you to check out the hottest Cuban, artisanal Peruvian, Italian and Jewish comfort foods.
• Half-Day Double Decker Bus and Boat Tour of Miami: Hit all of the city’s major neighborhoods, such as South Beach, Downtown Miami, and Little Havana. Transition then to a boat tour through the lovely Biscayne Bay.
• Everglades National Park Airboat Tour and Wildlife Show: If exploring nature interests you, you can spend some time in the everglades seeing the alligator and other wildlife native to the area.

Where to Eat:

• Versailles: So much of the culture in Miami is influenced by the Cubans who made this city their home. It’s only appropriate that you try at least Cuban while you’re in town, and Versailles is one of the best.
• My Cupcake World: If you have a sweet tooth, check out this place for some absolutely delicious cupcakes!

10 | Punta Gorda, Florida

Florida’s Gulf Coast is home to America’s best beaches so it makes perfect sense that we would include Punta Gorda on this list of the best US cities to visit. Why Punta Gorda, you may ask? Because it has it all and without the crowds that you’ll find at more popular tourist destinations in the sunshine state.

One of the best spots to play, stay and eat is located along the beautiful Charlotte Harbor. The idyllic Four Points by Sheraton Harborside is a centrally-located place to stay. After you check in, head over to the on-site restaurant. At TT’s Tiki Bar, you’ll witness stunning sunsets over the water while sipping mouth-watering cocktails accompanied by top-notch cuisine. If you’re traveling with athletic types or children, they can jump in on a game of beach volleyball while you relax in one of their colorful Adirondack chairs. 

Punta Gorda offers more than beaches and margaritas so get ready to explore. Both the downtown Farmer’s Market and Fishermen’s Village are ideal places to shop for unique souvenirs. When you’re done shopping, hop on a sunset cruise to explore the Harbor by boat. Post-cruise, enjoy dinner at The Captain’s Table. Their Lobster Ravioli is truly decadent and a great way to end a day of sightseeing. 

Once you’re finished with your adventuring for the day, head back to TT’s Tiki Bar to enjoy Punta Gorda’s best lineup of live entertainment. There’s no need to worry about who is driving when you can sip your margarita mere steps from your hotel room. 

Popular Attractions & Tours:

• Another great spot to explore is the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, one of the largest botanical and sculpture gardens in the State of Florida. If you’re lucky, you might get to see a butterfly release ceremony. It’s a truly memorable experience! Follow up your tour with a visit to Alligator Bay Distillery for a rum tasting with a Hawaiian twist.
• Punta Gorda History Park: This park features four local historic homes, three of which are open to the public. You’ll also find a weekly Farmer’s Market here on Sundays as well. 

Where to Eat:

In addition to the recommendations above, here are some additional restaurants you may consider visiting:

• Village Fish Market & Restaurant: A riverfront restaurant offering New England style seafood (and great views!)
• Carmelo’s Italian Ristorante: Situated in a building that looks like home, this restaurant offers a variety of Tuscan-style fare. 

11 | New Orleans, LA

New Orleans is a great place to experience a very different culture than the rest of the US – its actually pretty similar to Miami in this aspect. You can really feel how this city was impacted by its French and Spanish settlers, and the African slaves who were able to keep more of their culture than others due to different slave laws there. Most iconic is the French Quarter with its beautiful balconies and colorful buildings, and all the wonderful food!

Popular Attractions:

• French Quarter, Cemetery, and Voodoo Tour: Explore the most popular neighborhood in New Orleans, and the neighboring Tremé, and learn all about the history of the city and voodoo culture.
• Ghost Tour: If you like being spooked, explore the city at night and learn all about the haunts that supposedly still roam the streets and buildings today.
• Whitney Plantation Tour: Learn what life was really like for the slaves that lived in Louisiana back in the day.

Where to Eat:

• Muriel’s Jackson Square: For an upscale dining experience you can make a reservation here to try classic New Orleans style food with a bit of a French influence.
• Cafe Du Monde: Get those world-famous biengets here – they never disappoint!

12 | Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is probably best known for the colorful colonial architecture found in Rainbow Row. These cities once formed the commercial center of the colonial period – something that has been revived in recent years. What I found quite interesting about this city is that it was once a major slave port for the country. In fact, it is known as the Ellis Island for Black Americans as 80 percent of those in the US can trace an ancestor who arrived through this part. Both an interesting and sad fact about this town. 

Popular Attractions and Tours:

• Charleston Historical Downtown Tour: See the most popular places in the city, such as Charleston Harbor, Rainbow Row, King Street, and Charleston Battery. All while riding in a traditional horse-drawn carriage. 
• Aiken Rhett House: This house provides a very poignant look at the lives of slaves in the US. The former owner of this house was quite wealthy, so you just imagine how many lived here back in the day. I really enjoyed the tour here and felt that it was very informative.

Where to Eat: 

• Sushi-Wa: A high-end sushi spot that offers creative takes on some classic sushi dishes. Definitely reserve in advance if you plan to eat here as it is very popular. 
• Wild Olive: This restaurant offers many Italian classics, and a very robust menu. You are certain to find something that you like here – even if you are a picky eater. 

The Southwest

The southwest is characterized as having influences from both the southern states and the frontier west, and many states in this region have a relatively significant native American influence as well.

13 | Austin, Texas

Austin, the capital of Texas, is known for its vibrant music and arts scene, as well as its laid-back atmosphere and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city’s motto is “Keep Austin Weird,” which reflects its diverse and eccentric culture.

One of the main draws to Austin is its live music scene. The city is home to a number of music festivals, including South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits, and there are numerous live music venues scattered throughout the city. Austin is also home to a thriving food scene, with a range of cuisines available. Some popular restaurants in the city include Franklin Barbecue, a renowned barbecue joint, and Uchi, a sushi restaurant.

Popular Attractions & Tours:

• There are a number of tours available in Austin, including food tours, brewery tours, and guided tours of the city’s street art and murals. 
• Another popular activity is a tour of the Texas State Capitol Building, which offers a glimpse into the history and politics of the state.
• For outdoor enthusiasts, Austin offers a number of recreational opportunities, including hiking and biking trails at the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Lady Bird Lake, and swimming and stand-up paddle-boarding at Barton Springs Pool.

Where to Eat: 

In addition to the restaurants listed above, here are some good dining options to explore: 

• Con Todo: This food truck offers real Mexican tacos that come “con todo” or everything – that is cilantro, onions, and salsa. It won best food truck of the year in 2022.
• Bufalina Due: This pizza joint offers delicious Neapolitan-style pies with recommendations on thoughtful wine pairings. 

Overall, Austin is a lively and eclectic city with a lot to offer visitors, including live music, delicious food, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visit Guide Your Travel for more travel guides. 

14 | Dallas, TX

Dallas is known for being the center of the art scene for northern Texas. There are many art museums around the city, including the Dallas Museum of Art and Nasher Sculpture city. It is also known for its wide variety of high-quality restaurants. Dallas residents eat out 4 times a week on average, which is only less than Houston and Austin within the state.

Popular Attractions:

• Dallas Uptown Foodie Walk: Explore the uptown neighborhood of West Village and learn about the some of the city’s history while you eat delicious food from around the world.
• Dallas and JFK Limousine Tour: Visit the city’s key monuments and landmarks and then learn all about the circumstances and places involved in JFK’s assassination.
• Dallas CityPASS: Get a discounted ticket for entry to many of Dallas’s top attractions, including the Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas Zoo.

Where to Eat:

• Velvet Tacos: This place has the best tacos you will ever eat. Period. Get tacos inspired by a variety of cuisine, like Nashville hot chicken, tikka masala, and more. I make a point to always stop here whenever I’m in the city.
• Gabriella and Sofia’s Tex Mex: You can’t stop in Texas without tex-mex, and this place is legit.

15 | Houston, TX

Despite being part of the southwest, Houston features one of the most diverse city populations in the country – there are over 90 different languages spoken here! Houston has a lively music culture and a thriving theater scene. Houston is a huge city, both in size and population and spread. The sprawl is real here! In fact, the land area for greater Houston is similar to that of the STATE of Massachusetts!

Popular Attractions:

• NASA Space Center Visit: Visit the Johnson Space Center and participate in a guided tram tour around the site. Experience the many interactive exhibits that could be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
• Houston City Tour (w/ Aquarium): Explore the city of Houston by bus and stop at as many of the landmarks as you’d like. Get access to the city’s aquarium as well.
• Houston City PASS: Save 47% on the city’s top attractions, including the Museum of Natural Science, the Houston Zoo, and the Kemah Boardwalk.

Where to Eat:

• El Real Tex-Mex Cafe: Like Dallas, this city is well-known for its tex mex – this spot is one of the best in the city!
• Gatlin’s BBQ: The city is also very popular for its BBQ, so be sure to check out a place like Gatlin’s before you wrap up your visit!

16 | San Antonio, Texas

The home of the famous Alamo and the River Walk, San Antonio is a historic city nestled in south-central Texas. With a population of over 1.4 million, San Antonio is the seventh-largest city in the United States, but it still maintains a small-town Southern charm.

San Antonio is filled with unique places to explore that allow you to delve further into its colonial, Mexican and western history. A trip to San Antonio isn’t complete without a visit to the Alamo. Located in the heart of downtown, this former Spanish mission and fort was the site of an 1836 battle for Texas independence and is now home to a memorial museum.

Visit River City for fantastic parks and outdoor recreational sites for all ages. Take a romantic stroll along the iconic River Walk, lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, and enjoy some of the best Tex-Mex cuisine in the city.

If you’re looking to take in the city’s rich cultural history, spring and fall are the best times to visit San Antonio. The weather is mild, and several special events throughout the year, such as the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and the Fiesta San Antonio. Although much more crowded, summer is a great time to visit, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and other outdoor activities.

Popular Attractions & Tours:

• City Sightseeing San Antonio offers scenic San Antonio River Walk boat tours with knowledgeable narrations during which you can learn more about the city’s history and fun facts. During holidays such as Christmas, carolers also fill the air with cheerful songs to give you a truly magical experience!
• San Antonio UNESCO World Heritage Missions Tour: Embark on a journey back in time, experiencing the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, home to five 18th-century Spanish colonial missions. Wander along Mission Trail and uncover America’s captivating history.Visit places such as Mission San José, San Francisco de Espada, and the Mission Riverwalk Hike and Bike Trail. 

Where to Eat: 

• Domingo Restaurante: This cool open-air restaurant offers impressive views of the city below. The restaurant strives to “offer the flavors of South Texas”, so expect to try modern takes on classics from the area here. 
• Brasao Brazilian Steakhouse: If you haven’t visited a Brazilian steakhouse before, you are in for a treat. Expect a wide variety of meat cuts cooked to perfection alongside delicious sides. 

17 | Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico is one of the best cities to visit in the US for history buffs, art lovers, foodies, margarita drinkers, chocoholics, and anyone who enjoys the sunshine.

As the oldest capital city in America, Santa Fe boasts many historical sites. The Santa Fe Plaza, a National Landmark, dates back to the 1600’s. The Palace of the Governors borders the plaza and is the oldest building in continuous use in the US. A few blocks away you’ll find the oldest church in the US, San Miguel Chapel, and a little further, the oldest house in New Mexico which is now a museum.

The historic plaza with its adobe architecture stands at the heart of Santa Fe. Southwest boutiques, art galleries, and eateries surround the grassy