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10 Must Visit Cities In The United States

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By Wanderlust



The Statue of Liberty and White House, Disney World and Hollywood, Broadway and Wall Street – these images come to mind when thinking of the United States. The third largest country in the world has many amazing cities and plenty of natural attractions to put on must-see list. And this list could stretch on forever. There are a huge number of unique fabulous cities in America that absolutely worth a trip, but just don't get their fair share of the limelight. Have you ever been to Bar Harbor Maine or Savannah Georgia or Portland Oregon? If the answer is No, then you should! But if I have to choose top ten must-visit cities in America, I have to stay with the usual suspects. After all, you haven’t been to America if you haven’t seen cultural icons like the Statue of Liberty and Golden Gate Bridge, or natural features like Grand Canyon and Lake Tahoe. So, here you are 10 Must Visit Cities in the United States.


New York Skyline, Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges
New York Skyline, Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges

New York

I think everybody would agree that New York is one of the most fascinating cities not only in the USA but in the entire world. Therefore it HAS to be on must-see in America list. What makes it so fascinating? First, of course, its architecture – Manhattan skyline is absolutely incredible. Second, its multicultural personality – New York is a true melting pot of ethnicities and cultures. And finally, nowhere else in a world you would find that many best restaurant, best hotels, museums and theaters concentrated in such a small land area of 23 square miles - that’s how small Manhattan is. And whatever your passion in culture, entertainment or food is, you’ll find it here. Don’t forget that besides Manhattan, there are four other boroughs in New York with plenty of things to do and to see.

Well, if New York has everything, then maybe the must-visit cities in America list should has only one city – New York?  Not quite right. There are much more in this incredible country than just New York.


Boston Common
Boston Common

Boston

While New York is defined by its skyline, Boston is distinguished by its vibrant neighborhoods. From the fashionable Back Bay to oldest Beacon Hill to colorful Chinatown to historic North End – all neighborhoods of Boston has its own personality and distinct appeal. A stroll around this old city is like reading an American history textbook. Follow the red line marking the Freedom Trail and come across Boston Common, the Old North Church, Paul Revere's house and Bunker Hill. Each stop represents a chapter in American history. Being cultural and commercial hub of New England, Boston absorbed all best from the region, including best food such as Maine lobster and New England clam chowder. Try them when in Boston, they are best you can find in all country.


The Washington Monument and Cherry Trees in bloom
The Washington Monument and Cherry Trees in bloom

Washington DC

The city is particularly glorious in spring, when its many gardens and park are in bloom. While visiting the White House, take the White House Garden tour and view the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden and Rose Garden – they are absolutely splendid. Sightseeing in Washington DC wouldn’t cost much – most of Washington DC museums and memorials are free. Take a ride to the top of the Washington Monument to see spectacular views of the city and surroundings. Stroll cobblestone streets of Georgetown, the city’s most beautiful neighborhood with great restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and shops. Relax at Dumbarton Oaks gardens, one of the loveliest spots in the city. And if you have time, explore surroundings - Maryland has plenty of things to offer to a curious traveler. Of course, to try Maryland Blue Crab is a must, when you are there!


South Beach Miami
South Beach Miami

Miami

America’s Riviera with 10 miles of wide white sandy beaches, delightful art deco architecture, trendy hotels, chic restaurants and hot party scene – this is Miami. Plus, a huge Latin American cultural inheritance – in some Miami neighborhoods you could easily forget that you are in the United States. If you don’t have a chance to go to Cuba, a short trip to Little Havana in Miami could give you a little glimpse of the Caribbean jewel: aroma of Cuban coffee and cigars, pulsating Cuban music, art and craft, very authentic restaurants and colorful storefronts. But, if you are really adventurous, rent a car and go to Key West for a couple of days. Not only because Key West is absolute paradise, but also because the road from Miami to Key West is really stunning.


Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park

Las Vegas

A gambleville with luxury resorts and five star hotels, outstanding dining and acclaimed shows, exclusive spas and world-class golf courses – you have to party in Vegas at least once in a lifetime. Las Vegas’ proximity to unique treasures of nature such as Red Rock and Grand Canyon, Colorado River and Death Valley makes Sin City attractive travel destination not only for party goers but for nature lovers as well. Take a road trip to Death Valley National Park, just a couple of hours away from Vegas, and enjoy the hottest place in the country. Or drive a little bit further to Grand Canyon, the most famous natural feature not only in the area but in the USA. Or visit Lake Mead, a large man-made lake, one of the largest in the world. And you will see that there are more of Vegas than just parties.


Walt Disney World Top 7 Must Sees

Orlando

Orlando being home to the largest amusement park in the world has to be on a list of must-visit in America. Walt Disney World is the most visited recreational resort in the world, and don’t be mistaken it is not only for children, adults have plenty of fun in Disney World as well. Besides famous Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld, Orlando offers plenty of different entertainment, great dining and even museums – the most comprehensive collection of Tiffany art is in Charles Hosmer Morse Museum in Orlando.


La Jolla, San Diego
La Jolla, San Diego

San Diego

Blue skies and 70 miles of great beaches, Mediterranean climate and Mexican specialties, aquatic parks, aquariums and zoos – the jewel of South California have it all. For beach lovers a visit to La Jolla is a must. The most magnificent beach on the West Coast offers fantastic surfing, excellent snorkeling and diving, amazing sunsets and beautiful sands. San Diego Old Town, the historical heart of the city, is the "birthplace" of California - San Diego is the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in California. The Spanish and Mexican heritage of the city is celebrated throughout Old Town, including best Mexican food and Margaritas.


Los Angeles
Los Angeles

Los Angeles

Hollywood and Beverly Hills, Malibu and Sunset Boulevard – these places have to be on must-visit in America list, and all of them are in Los Angeles. Who wouldn’t like to take a ride down Sunset Boulevard in a convertible or watch sunset on Malibu beach with a glass of California Pinot? If you’ve never done it, you should! Besides famous attractions and intensive nightlife, Los Angeles has great surroundings to explore. Just take a road trip to Santa Barbara and you’ll witness a breathtaking beauty of South California.


Seattle Skyline and the Space Needle
Seattle Skyline and the Space Needle

Seattle

If you think that Seattle is only about rain, you are absolutely wrong. The Emerald City is a real green gem, with a wealth of evergreen trees throughout, and breathtaking views of the Cascade mountains to the east and the Olympic mountains to the west. Mt. Rainier looks down on Seattle from its majestic heights. Driving through Seattle on a clear day has been compared to floating on a cloud in an emerald sky. Go to the top of the Space Needle and enjoy a panoramic view of the city, have a lunch at a sidewalk café in Pike Street Market and embrace best of what Seattle can offer – splendid views and great freshest seafood.


The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

San Francisco

The city's famous steep hills and trolley cars, astonishing bay views, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, lively Fisherman's Wharf and Chinatown, numerous beautiful gardens and delicious food make San Francisco very unique and, from my point of view, the most beautiful city in America. When in San Francisco, take a trip to Napa Valley for a glass of wine or two while enjoying breathtaking scenery of a wine country. Or go to Lake Tahoe, to see “the jewel of the Sierras”, one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

What city in America in YOUR must-visit list? Please, share with us your plans and your travel experiences in the United States.

What is the most beautiful city in the United States?

  • New York
  • Los Angeles
  • San Francisco
  • Miami
  • Boston
See results without voting

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Comments

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Cris A profile image

Cris A  says:
11 months ago

wow reading this hub felt like an armchair travel! thanks for sharing this. I haven't been to the US but I still voted nonetheless based on your description of each city. :D

countrywomen profile image

countrywomen  says:
11 months ago

Glad even my city seattle made it to this list. I agree most of these cities are wonderful places. But my friend Chicago is another wonderful city with great skyline and beautiful lake front views.

Jerry G2 profile image

Jerry G2  says:
11 months ago

Another great hub, but I wonder if Austin, TX, shouldn't have made it (amazing city, great night life on 6th Street, and the Live Music Capital of the World) and I personally prefer Tampa Bay over Miami, but admittedly Miami is the "sexy" pick. Good hub.

Passatempos  says:
11 months ago

One day I would like to visit the U.S.A, this post helps a lot to choose what cities can visit.

Cumps

Wanderlust profile image

Wanderlust  says:
11 months ago

Chris, I am glad you liked the trip :) I hope one day you will visit all these beautiful cities.

Countrywomen, I agree that Chicago is a beautiful city also, but for me Chicago is very simular to New York. I wanted to show a variety of our fantastic country.

Jerry, thank you very much for stopping by. I think ones one covers the basic of the USA, Austin TX is next on a list! I personally like Austin very much.

FunFacter profile image

FunFacter  says:
11 months ago

This would be my tour guide for sure when i visit USA as i am planning in near future. Thanks for this guide and i would really appreciate for the photos as they are really cool and attracting.

bhajans  says:
11 months ago

I my view its only Las Vegas!!!

Bryan  says:
10 months ago

I still don't understand a city like Chicago doesnt make it on anyones top 10 list... It should easliy be on someones to 2 or top 3 list....

Dink96 profile image

Dink96  says:
10 months ago

I better get busy. I still haven't seen Boston, New York or Washington and have just driven through Miami on my way to the Keys. (I have been to Toronto was told like NYC only without the trash.) New Orleans and Portland rate right up near the top.

Hammster  says:
10 months ago

Why is San Antonio not on this list? :-P

britneydavidson profile image

britneydavidson  says:
9 months ago

great hub...amazing pics and explanation...i have really enjoyed reading it...great job done...i like newyork the most one...have a look for this one i am sure you will love it....

http://hubpages.com/hub/Sony-Ericsson-XPERIA-X1-3G

thanx

raguett profile image

raguett  says:
9 months ago

great hub, and great pics... love the choices, thanks for letting m know about this hub...r

linjingjing profile image

linjingjing  says:
8 months ago

Writing good

kiwi91 profile image

kiwi91  says:
8 months ago

Great hub! I've been to all ten of these cities, and I'd have to say Orlando is the least impressive. It's really the parks that make the city, if that's your thing. The downtown area of the city isn't so vibrant and top 10 worthy. New Orleans, San Antonio, Austin, and Chicago are some of the best I've been to that weren't included (in terms of major cities).

johnb0127 profile image

johnb0127  says:
8 months ago

Great Cities! I would love to travel to each and every one of these. Thanks for the interesting hub.

--John

Loller  says:
6 months ago

Chicago doesn't make it to the list because it's mostly a business city. It does not have much attractions, besides Navy Pier. But LA's Santa Monica Pier takes over. Mirical Mile is taken by Las Vegas Boulevard. Good foods are taken over by NY. Chicago is just what you call a skyscraper fan. Not much to do. No offense, but just going inside a skyscraper and looking at views is pretty much what you can do in every city. I'd say going to Empire State Building or going to Hollywood gets much of a better view.

Gerl72  says:
6 months ago

Chicago is a bad, boring place. Waste of time. I was shopping and the winds blew my $100 purse away!

JimmyJim  says:
6 months ago

LA and Las Vegas should be the top 2.

The reason why LA should be on top is because of their closing attractions, and disasters. You must visit LA before their attractions gets destroyed.

Las Vegas should be here because the casinos are running out. Though you should go Las Vegas about a year later, it is still important to go right now. Casinos aren't doing so good, and some casinos are still being built.

Washington DC is a pretty boring city for kids. People do not enjoy history now, and don't care about history.

Miami is a bad place to visit during the summer. It is unbearable and deadly. Everything you see is a building under construction. I perfer California for the beaches.

Mardi profile image

Mardi  says:
6 months ago

Great hub and I agree with you about Boston. I was amazed at the difference in neighborhoods and also the overall history of the city. Thanks for this!

Big Ed  says:
5 months ago

To say that Chicago is a boring city is like saying that Orlando is not full of activities. What a stupid comment. I live in Brooklyn, and Chicago has its own charisma and charm. Moreover, there is food in Chicago that is hard to either replicate and or imitate. What a stupid comment. I agree NYC, San Fran, and MIami are about as good as it gets. But to eliminate Chicago is like eliminating Paris and or London from the world's best cities. Stupid morons on this site.

Wanderlust profile image

Wanderlust  says:
5 months ago

Well, Big Ed, we got it - you love Chicago! But let's be civilized people, everybody is entitled on his/her personal opinion. I love Chicago, but as I mentioned above it is quite similar to New York, of course with its own Midwest charm and beauty.

Research Analyst profile image

Research Analyst  says:
4 months ago

San Diego is one of my favorite places to go for the weekend, the weather is always perfect and the downtown gaslamp quarter always has plenty of shops and places to eat and listen to music. One of the best bars for nightlife is "The Bitter End.

Sexy jonty profile image

Sexy jonty  says:
4 months ago

Thanks for this wonderful help dude .....

Allison  says:
4 months ago

wow!! i luv this list! thank you!

World Traveller  says:
4 months ago

San Francisco, No doubt the most beautiful city in America!

jonty  says:
4 months ago

Very well written hub .....

very much informative ......

Thank you very much for your great hub, for good advice, good wishes and support. Thanks for sharing your experience with all of us.

shah kamal  says:
3 months ago

nice hub.most beatiful city in america.

http:// fashion-worldnews.blogspot.com

Helen Cater profile image

Helen Cater  says:
3 months ago

This is fantastic. I am a great lover of America Las Vegas being my fav.I have created a hub on money saving tips which would tie in nice.Thinking of going to Washington next as I have never been.This article has helped me decide where to go next.

Ladybird33 profile image

Ladybird33  says:
3 months ago

Marvelous hub, I have been to everyone of these cities, love the recap.

Yangtze profile image

Yangtze  says:
3 months ago

Quite resourceful and informative hub.It becomes a wonderful guide to the US travel.

MikeNV profile image

MikeNV  says:
3 months ago

There are actually very few 5 star hotels here in Vegas.

Wanderlust profile image

Wanderlust  says:
3 months ago

Well, MikeNV, "very few 5 star hotels in Vegas" is definitely a wrong statement. Bellagio, Four Seasons, The Venetian, Wynn, Encore at Wynn, The Palazzo Resort, Ritz-Carlton, Trump International, Vdara Hotel, Skylofts at MGM Grand, Signature at MGM Grand, Aria resort and etc - all 5 star hotels! And plus several 4.5 star hotels and resorts. Barely very few !

aditya  says:
3 months ago

useful guide ....

keep the good work up ....

Kristie  says:
3 months ago

I feel like such a traveler! I have been to 8 of the 10 cities on your list! Only missing Washington DC and New York!

Lalynn profile image

Lalynn  says:
3 months ago

I have visited every single one of these cities...even lived in some of them. I have to agree with you about them. My personal favorites, however were not on the list: Chicago and Atlanta!

knell63 profile image

knell63  says:
2 months ago

Great hub, I found them all compelling, it was funny too reading all your compatriots fighting for their square mile of the USA, you can't beat a little home pride. I would have to agree NY has to be top of the list and hopefully one day I will get a chance to visit.

Oticketc  says:
2 months ago

Great listing. US for me is unique and I love to visit all cities.

EWealthGuide profile image

EWealthGuide  says:
2 months ago

NYC, Las Vegas and LA are my fav cities. Can't choose a favorite, but they are all at the top of my list!

Rafael  says:
2 months ago

Thanks for the help, i grew up in san diego but currently living in cancun and still like to travrl to the U.S and its pretty hard to choose where, Im missing Boston, Washington, and chicago out of this top ten list. I have vacations the last 2 weeks of october, where would you recomend?

Wanderlust profile image

Wanderlust  says:
2 months ago

Rafael, thank you for stopping by. Last two weeks in October is a great time to visit New England to see last days of fall foliage, so Boston and surroundings is a good choice. Chicago is a great city at any time of the year. And of course New York is always a perfect destination!

juneaukid profile image

juneaukid  says:
2 months ago

Great choices, great photos! Thanks for sharing this.

jimmyred profile image

jimmyred  says:
2 months ago

awesome wrap up. i'm planning my states trip next year, can't wait!

Rebecca E. profile image

Rebecca E.  says:
2 months ago

thanks so much for the new addtions on my list

Misstikal1 profile image

Misstikal1  says:
2 months ago

Thanks for sharing us this hub. I really like this one. These are some beautiful places to visit.

magdielqr profile image

magdielqr  says:
2 months ago

great hub, and great pics. Thank you for this informative Hub.

emievil profile image

emievil  says:
2 months ago

Beautiful places. I only went to San Francisco and Las Vegas (although I did not see the Grand Canyon), but I'd go back in a heartbeat (and if I have the money). Too bad I did not go to the other cities. Your hub made me see what I missed. =)

Dim Flaxenwick profile image

Dim Flaxenwick  says:
5 weeks ago

I can understand Jimmy Jims' comment about Washington D.C. being a boring place for kids but for my husband and I now the kids are grown we can't wait to get at all the museums.!!! History is fascinating. This hub very helpul

Wanderlust profile image

Wanderlust  says:
5 weeks ago

Thanks everybody for comments and suggestions! For Dim Flaxenwick and other history and museums buffs please check my hub 10 Must See Museums In America

http://hubpages.com/hub/Must-See-Museums

Miss Belgravia profile image

Miss Belgravia  says:
5 weeks ago

I might take Orlando off the list and replace it with New Orleans, Chicago, or Santa Fe. But otherwise, I have to agree with your picks. And wow -- Washington DC boring for kids? My daughter loved the National Zoo, the Air & Space Museum, the Natural History Museum, the White House -- and just outside of DC, Mount Vernon, Williamsburg, Jamestown, etc. I think she enjoyed DC more than Disneyworld -- and I certainly did.

Mike Lickteig profile image

Mike Lickteig  says:
4 weeks ago

Las Vegas is one of my favorite cities, and if anyone who visits gets a chance, they should go to the Grand Canyon via helicopter ride. It is a lot of fun.

Apoio Domiciliário  says:
4 weeks ago

I'm portuguese... I went once the US and already visit 3 of the "10 must visit cities in the US": NY, Boston and Washington.

Next time it will be Miami and Orlando...

Emme West profile image

Emme West  says:
4 weeks ago

I think Portland should make the top ten list, but I'm partial! ;-) Nice hub!

kingis profile image

kingis  says:
4 weeks ago

Where is Chicago on the list?

Jerry Garcia  says:
3 weeks ago

I sure would love to visit NY. I'm from Houston and I have only been to Louisiana, I would love to get out of TX for a change.

cuts73 profile image

cuts73  says:
2 weeks ago

Great list. I don't know about Orlando though. Orlando has always been one big, humid, amusement park. Really no natural beauty to speak of.

KarenCamille profile image

KarenCamille  says:
2 weeks ago

I live in New York so I guess I am bias. I have travelled to most of the cities on your list such as Los Angeles, San Diego, Vegas, Miami, Boston and Washington. NY is very multi-cultural and there is so much to do and at least most of the places are still open the city don't shut-down at 1 am. L.A. is my second favorite spot similiar to NY but is more laid-back and is much slower.

Ruth  says:
2 weeks ago

Thank you so much. I am from Africa and this really helped!

Travelers way profile image

Travelers way  says:
2 weeks ago

Nice blog. I would say San Diego and Las Vegas are nice places to see. Chicago is left off for all the right reasons.....lol. I am partial to St. Louis sometimes but it can be a dirty city. The city of Orlando itself no but the surrounding areas are very nice.

chelamarie profile image

chelamarie  says:
9 days ago

You say that you want to show a variety of the country, but there are no cities in the South! Sure, Miami is technically here geographically, but what about true southern cities like Charleston? And that's only me being a little biased. ;] haha.

Wanderlust profile image

Wanderlust  says:
9 days ago

Thanks everybody for comments !!

chelamarie, yes Charleston is absolutely charming, I totally agree with you. But the question was TEN MUST visit cities in the USA. I personally like a lot of cities in US and Charleston is one of them along with Portland, New Orleans, Austin, Houston and etc. But if I have to choose top ten must-visit cities in America, I would stay with the list above :)

lchris7 profile image

lchris7  says:
8 days ago

Great hub. I have been to six of the ten cities. Washington DC - plan to spend at least a week to ck out the Smithsonian museums. Miami - The drivers are crazy! Ck out South Beach, Yowza! Vegas - A short trip to Sedona is well worth it. Orlando - Home sweet home. Book a Vacation Home at http://www.VillaGorillaVacationHomes.com. Don't forget to ck out the beaches an hour drive either east or west on I-4. San Diego is home to the best Zoo in America. LA - best surfing waves and I understand the smog is much better than it used to be.

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