The USA is a beautiful country filled with sights, culture, and amazing architecture. From coast to coast, the cities of the US prove that it is a country that has so much to offer when you visit, and thankfully, there’s something for everyone. Whether you are interested in states that have natural sights or want somewhere with an impressive nightlife scene, you’ll find it!
So whether you are planning a weekend stay in the US, or have a week-long trip to fill your time, don’t fret. We’ve made a list of the ten must-see cities in the USA, so you don’t have to worry! If you’re a museum lover, a country-music fanatic, or anything in between – we’ve got you covered.
10 Unmissable Cities
1. Boston, MA
One of America’s ‘first’ big cities, Boston still is a city you must see if you are visiting the US. With history right on its doorstep, you won’t be short of things to marvel at when you’re there. The architecture scattered around the city dates back to the 1600s, juxtaposed with modern buildings such as I.M. Pei, Frank Gehry, and the Walter Gropius building. From delicious lobster rolls and mouth-watering chowder, Boston is a city that loves seafood. When you visit, be sure to go to the city’s best lobster shacks and best raw bars. Don’t forget to visit the Boston Common for some gorgeous sights and a picnic on the grass!
2. Seattle, WA
The jewel of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle, is a city where you will most definitely feel sleepless as there is simply too much to do and see! From gorgeous emerald parks to stunning views of Puget Sound, you will be able to see it all from the iconic Space Needle in downtown Seattle. This is a 360-degree rotating glass atrium. If you are a museum lover, visit the Museum of Pop Culture or the Seattle Art Museum. It is also home to the grunge era that its music venues proudly declare today, with places like Showbox and Neumos.
3. New Orleans, LA
New Orleans might be one of the most colorful cities you’ll visit in the US. Here, they love to dress up and have a party, so put on wigs and masks and explore the French Quarter for delicious food at some of the best restaurants the city has to offer. There is a culture at every corner, with a mix of funk and art on stunning murals on every block. Cast your eyes up to the wonderful architecture here in this fun-loving city.
4. San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city built on hills. Although based in California, don’t let the location fool you; it can get chilly here, so make sure to have a sweater packed for whatever time of year it is. Travel around the city by cable car and take trips to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge or a day tour to Alcatraz Island. With lots to do and see, San Francisco should be on your list of East Coast pearls to see.
5. Chicago, IL
Deep-dish pizzas, the Cubbies, and the Frank Lloyd Wright building are simply three of the many great things that you will experience in Chicago. This is a large city with a homely vibe, with even an entire street devoted to dancing and drinking, with the aptly named Rush Street. If you are a music lover, time your visit to one of Chicago’s. With July’s Taste of Chicago, Pitchfork in September, or the biggest of them all, Lollapalooza. If visiting in the winter months, make sure to bring layers, as it can get to subzero temperatures!
6. Salt Lake City, UT
No matter where you are in this city, you’ll be able to catch a peak of the gorgeous Rocky Mountains. They tower over the city, looking like the backdrop of a stunning painting. Enjoy a range of fine-dining restaurants as well as international and ethnic ones. While here, don’t forget to take advantage of the great outdoors in the form of swimming, hiking, or having a picnic at the Great Salt Lake.
7. Charleston, SC
Come for the architecture; stay for the vibes. Charleston is one of America’s gems, steeped in history, culture, cuisine, and art. Some of the buildings, particularly the churches, have been around since 1670, so enjoy these lovely sights while sipping on a drink at Pavilion Park, or have a browse around the City Market, where you’ll find the city’s signature sweetgrass baskets.
8. Los Angeles, CA
Sand, sun, and the Hollywood sign – Los Angeles is a city you have to visit at least once in your life. With beautiful beaches to explore in Malibu, piers to explore by Santa Monica, and more hiking trails than you’ll realize, LA is the perfect place to get lost in. Be warned, you might need a rental car here as traffic lines can get pretty long, but the views along the way make up for it! Feel like you’re the main character in your very own LA movie.
9. Nashville, TN
The place to be if you want the full country experience. For some dancing and drinking, head straight for Broadway, where you’ll find all sorts of bars serving up whiskey and country songs to keep you singing the night away. For music lovers, visit the Country Music Hall of Fame to see memorabilia from some of the genre’s most loved stars.
10. Washington D.C.
Easily one of America’s most beautiful cities, this is a place to really explore American history. With the Capitol building and world-famous White House, wear comfortable shoes as you walk from sight to sight. DC is full of museums for everyone’s taste, from the Spy Museum to the Newseum and the African American History and Culture Museum. Leave with your heart and mind more fully.