There’s a lot to see in the USA! All 50 states and the US territories too offer travelers something different. Here to help you determine the location of your next weekend trip, we present the 25 best weekend getaways in the USA.

The 25 Best Weekend Getaways In The USA

Best USA Weekend Getaways in the South

1. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is the largest city in the state. More importantly, if you love country music there’s no better place for a Tennessee weekend getaway than Nashville, the Music City. Highlights include the Ryman Auditorium, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, The Johnny Cash Museum, and the Grand Ole Opry.  

Of course, it’s more than “the birthplace of country music.” It’s also the state capital. Visit Harpeth State Park, the Parthenon, a surprisingly exceptional replica of the famous Greek landmark, and Downtown Nashville complete with art galleries, museums, whisky tastings, and intriguing record stores.

2. Savannah, Georgia

Located on the coast of the well-known Savannah River, this city is fairly famous for the place where you’ll find one of America’s top art colleges, the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design). It’s also the state’s oldest city and therefore home to numerous historical sites to explore. Discover the olden cobblestone streets, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Wormsloe Historic Site, and Forsyth Park. If you enjoy spooky weekend getaways, Savannah includes great gothic cathedrals, spooky Spanish moss-covered trees, candlelit guided ghost tours, haunted pub crawls, and the Bonaventure Cemetery.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

Spend the weekend in “The Big Easy” on the mighty Mississippi River! Yes, many tourists visit during Mardi Gras to enjoy the fun and festivities. Still, no matter when you visit, this place has an energetic nightlife, fine food, and a rich historic mix of cultures.  

Visit the famous French Quarter, stroll down Bourbon Street, and the French Market. Enjoy New Orleans City Park and see beautiful New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park as well. Tour the nigh-legendary Lafayette Cemetery No.1 where such movies as Interview with a Vampire and The Vampire Diaries were filmed.

4. Key West, Florida

Key West is part of the famous Florida Keys. If you prefer a warm weekend getaway, this is the place. Spend your weekend kayaking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach.  

Go sailing and watch the dolphins play. Take a ghost tour, visit a museum or two, and stop in at Ernest Hemingway’s old residence too. Explore popular Duval Street. Here you can visit assorted bars, boutiques, and restaurants. At the day’s end, stop in Mallory Square for the superb sunset celebration. Take a sunset cruise and snap a selfie at the Southernmost Point Buoy too.

5. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Next on our list of getaway locations is the Great Smoky Mountains. This mountain range spans an area along the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Clingmans Dome, a highlight of this “most-visited national park in the nation” towers up 6,643 feet.  

It’s a great place to see the sunset and the highest point on the Appalachian Trail–(another trail your rovin’ writer’s hiked). Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it can be a great place for hiking and riding horses. Bike through Cades Cove. Visit in June and see the fireflies. 

6. Miami Beach, Florida

Miami Beach is the best weekend getaway location for beach bums. It is also famous for its watersports (kayaking and paddleboarding), vibrant nightlife, eye-catching art deco architecture on Ocean Drive, and the scantily-clad sun worshippers on the sexy South Beach. Explore the city via jet ski, share the water with mantas and other sea dwellers at Biscayne Bay, and take a trip to stunning Star Island to see the massive mansions of the rich and famous. Other highlights include Lincoln Road, Miami Beach Boardwalk, and the museums, bars, boutiques, cafes, and assorted eateries.

7. San Antonio, Texas

Some may consider Texas to be the Wild West, but that just proves they’ve never been to the city of San Antonio. Indeed, this weekend getaway destination is a rather prominent place. It’s not only the world-famous home of the Alamo and the Alamo Museum, but it is also steeped in both culture and history.

Additionally, the well-known San Antonio Missions is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Furthermore, you can see Spanish architecture throughout the city. Be sure to visit the River Walk, The Natural Bridge Caverns, and the San Antonio Museum of Art as well.  

8. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is next on our weekend getaway roster. It is reported to be a great family-friendly beach getaway too. With or without kids though, there is plenty to do besides swimming and tanning.

It is a top-rated golf destination as it includes 90 well-designed golf courses such as Grande Dunes Resort Golf Course, Myrtlewood Golf Club, and Prestwick. The Beach Boardwalk and Promenade feature gift shops, assorted eateries, and other curiosities worth a look. At sunset be sure to ride the popular Skywheel. It’s one of the nation’s largest Ferris wheels.

9. Asheville, North Carolina

You’ll find Asheville on the very edge of the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park near the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway. Here you can browse the farmer’s markets and have lunch at a microbrewery. Fresh food is abundant and Asheville has a thriving farm-to-table culinary scene. It’s a great place for those who want a weekend getaway that includes elements of both city and country. It features impressive architecture, assorted art galleries, museums, the Biltmore Mansion, the North Carolina Arboretum, white water rafting, and high adventure hiking on Blue Ridge Mountain.

10. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Nestled ‘neath the striking Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is the perfect place for a quirky weekend getaway and to entertain your inner child. New Mexico’s capital is another spot that wonderfully blends cultural attractions, distinctive food, historic sites, and numerous outdoor pursuits in a unique fashion. 

Visit in the summer or spring if you enjoy hiking. Visit in the winter if you enjoy skiing. Highlights here include the Sante Fe Indian Market, The Museum of International Folk Art, The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, and the interactive art installation named Meow Wolf.    

11. Charleston, South Carolina

Next on this list of best weekend getaways in the USA is the charming city of Charleston. This is the state’s largest city and it dates back to 1670. It is famous for its noteworthy architecture, numerous historic landmarks, and laid-back charm.

Highlights of this city include Folly Beach, the Isle of Palms, Waterfront Park near shining Charleston Harbor, colorful Rainbow Row, and famous Fort Sumter where the US Civil War erupted. Book your stay at the worthy Wentworth Mansion near the historic district. Take a tour then dine at the award-winning restaurant, FIG.

The Best USA Weekend Getaways in the Northeast

12. New York City, New York

The great Gotham, New York City, has something for everyone. From its iconic style of pizza and ethnic eateries to Broadway shows and notorious nightclubs, the Big Apple is worthy of any weekend getaway list! Must-visit attractions here include Central Park, the Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Times Square.

The best time to visit the Empire State Building is at sunset. Do you enjoy boat rides? Book a passage on a boat tour of the city. You’ll see Staten Island, the Statue of Liberty, and the entire Manhattan skyline from a unique perspective.

13. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston harkens back to 1630. It’s the state capital and one of the oldest US municipalities. Its old buildings, landmarks, and different museums are proof of this place’s significant part in the famous American Revolution.

Don’t miss hiking the famous Freedom Trail. It’s a self-guided tour where you follow a red line on the sidewalk to a number of historical landmarks. Are you a foodie? Take the city’s exceptional North End Walking Food Tour. Be sure to visit the famous John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum as well.

14. Washington, D.C.

The US capital is also great for a weekend getaway. This city is rife with world-famous historical sites and several different museums to suit almost any audience. It’s also a family-friendly place.  

Visit the National Mall. See the iconic Lincoln Memorial and spend a minute or two reading the scripts there on the walls too. You can also check out the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Martin Luther King Memorial. Your rovin’ writer enjoys spending time in the interesting and informative Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. You’ll be impressed by the artifacts, activities, and exhibitions.

15. Atlantic City, New Jersey

How about a classic weekend getaway location? Atlantic City draws millions of visitors every year. Much like the city of Las Vegas, resorts and casinos are omnipresent.

Conveniently situated close to Steel Pier, the must-see amusement park, you should definitely check out the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. It’s an exceptional area for those traveling with kids. If you’re looking for a challenge, consider spending time in Escape Atlantic City’s imaginative escape rooms. Complete the five-mile hike down the Atlantic City Boardwalk to Absecon Lighthouse. It’s one of the nation’s tallest lighthouses.

The Best USA Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

16. Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is next on our list of best weekend getaways. Chicago is exceptionally great if you enjoy intellectual exploits. It includes numerous exceptional architectural sites, cultural institutions, and a surprising plethora of museums.  

Since you only have a weekend, focus on the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago. See the work of such famous architects as Mies van der Rohe, Skidmore, and Frank Lloyd Wright. (You really need to see the Rookery Building up close.) Explore the attractions, eateries, and shops at the Navy Pier. Plus, you must see the Bean, a.k.a. Cloud Gate, in Millennial Park too!

17. Indianapolis, Indiana

This weekend getaway spot offers something for everyone, even toddlers. More specifically, the popular Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is the world’s largest children’s museum! Here you’ll discover sports areas, dinosaur fossils, and a surprising assortment of interactive activities.

If you are into individualistic, adventurous accommodations, consider booking your rooms at the exceptional Bottleworks Boutique Hotel. Some travel writers say this place “comes highly recommended.” This boutique hotel was actually a real bottle factory back in the early 1930s. In fact, much of the original exterior and actual art deco architecture was specifically restored and preserved.

The Best USA Weekend Getaways in the Pacific and West

18. Seattle, Washington

Seattle has a number of hidden gems if you don’t mind risking a little rain. Take Bill Speidel’s noteworthy 75-minute underground guided tour beneath the city’s original CBD prior to 1889’s Great Seattle Fire. Also check out Pike Place Market, the Museum of Flight, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass.

Are you feeling energetic? Take a great day trip to Mt. Rainier or float around lovely Lake Union in a comfy hot-tub boat. Don’t forget to take in Seattle from the Space Needle either!  

19. Portland, Oregon

Portland presents people into laid-back walkable cities with a perfect place for a weekend getaway. Here you can calmly stroll through more than 200 gardens, parks, and nature areas. The best gardens to visit are the country’s oldest rose garden, the International Rose Test Garden, the critically-acclaimed Portland Japanese Garden, and the lovely Lan Su Chinese Garden which not only features breathtaking gardens but also authentic Chinese architecture. Hike through Forest Park to the popular Witch’s Castle or take the more challenging but scenic Wildwood Trail.

20. Las Vegas, Nevada

No, we’ve not forgotten “Sin City” either! Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, but it’s also family-friendly and a great city for a weekend getaway. Visit Area 15 and enjoy the art galleries, alternate-reality arcades, fun rides, and amusement parks.  

Check out the Fountains Of Bellagio and the world’s largest video screen at Fremont Street. Check out M&M’S Las Vegas, the Pinball Hall of Fame, and the Neon Museum. Enjoy a meal at Dick’s Last Resort. Take a trip to the impressive desert art installation Seven Magic Mountains too.

21. Zion National Park, Utah

No weekend getaway list would be complete without a noteworthy national park. Zion is one of the state’s “Mighty 5” national parks. This park offers visitors surreal views and features fantastic formations.

You can sign on for a fun-filled four-by-four tour. Other highlights here include hiking the family-friendly Riverside Walk, hiking the Narrows, biking the Par’us Trail, visiting Zion Lodge, and doing the Zion-Carmel scenic drive. If you’re traveling with kids, help your kids complete a Ranger Program. Do some stargazing in the New International Dark Sky too.

22. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park, also known as the Crown of the Continent, follows on our list of best weekend getaways. Here you can go bicycling, boating, camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, and hiking. The best hiking trails here are the great Grinnell Glacier Trail and the well-known Trail of the Cedars.  

Cruise Going-to-the-Sun Road and see the lovely flora, great glaciers, and shining lakes. Take a guided tour. The professional guide will help you learn more about the park and all that is within it. You can even go whitewater rafting here!

23. San Diego, California

San Diego is another great place for a weekend getaway. Foodies love its Michelin-starred restaurants like Addison Restaurant, Herb & Wood, and the Crack Sack – Little Italy. You can go diving, snorkeling, sunbathing, and swimming at La Jolla Cove.

Enjoy fish tacos after you have had your share of fun in the sun. Visit the USS Midway Museum. This ex-aircraft carrier is now a fun, family-friendly interactive museum. Take a stroll through Balboa Park and explore the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve too.

24. Gros Ventre Wilderness, Wyoming

Gros Ventre Wilderness is certainly a must for an adventurous weekend getaway in Wyoming. It’s actually part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Arguably the most memorable geological feature here is the great Gros Ventre Slide of Sheep Mountain. If you’re athletic and looking for a challenge, there’s a difficult, seven-hour hike up Sheep Mountain that will reward you with incredible views.

There’s also the stunning Sacred Rim Trail. It’s easier but it’s off the beaten path. Remember the local wildlife here includes bears, moose, and wolves so be prepared.

25. Paso Robles, California

If you are an Oenophile, you will love a weekend getaway that includes exploring the wine region of California. The area’s landscape inspired the start of the numerous wine estates scattered around Paso Robles. You can choose from a number of organized tours to the wineries that offer a number of different types of transportation from buses to electric bikes.

No matter what form of conveyance you select, you simply must stop in at the popular Tobin James Cellars. Spend the day visiting various vineyards and enjoy wine tastings too. Be sure to see the solar-powered lights in Sensorio too!

There’s a lot to see in the USA. That includes numerous natural wonders, buildings, and even bridges. In fact, many bridges in the United States are well-known for several reasons, be it their history, total spans, overall appearance, or even the views they offer visitors. Here then, without further ado, are the 14 most famous bridges in the USA.

The 14 Famous Bridges In The USA

1. The Bixby Creek Bridge, California

The beautiful Bixby Bridge is reportedly an exceptional example of architecture. It stands 218 feet high and extends a total of 714 feet over Bixby Creek. It connects Big Sur to San Francisco.

One of the country’s most photographed bridges, it was built from 600,000 pounds of steel and 6,600 cubic yards of cement. Its overall design adheres to the classic California entertainment industry architectural style. Veteran visitors say that this bridge somehow contributes to the particular “majestic nature” of traveling from one place to the other.  

2. The Brooklyn Bridge, New York

This bridge, made famous in cartoons, movies, and television, was specifically constructed across the East River to join Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights. It was designed by German-American engineer John A. Roebling and took 14 years to complete. It was officially opened in 1883.  

The bridge has been a National Historic Landmark since 1964. It is at least 272 feet high, has a length of 1.1 miles, and is 6,016 feet long. Its main span is 1,595.5 feet. One of the oldest suspension bridges, it is also a pedestrian bridge and a six-lane traffic bridge.

3. The London Bridge, Arizona

This bridge is thus named because it once spanned the River Thames. Sometime in the 1960s, Ivan Luckin, one of the city councilors, sold the bridge to the US. It was delivered to the state of Arizona in 1967.  

It was reinforced to make sure it was safe. The work was completed in 1971. The bridge stretches 930 feet across Bridgewater Channel, joining popular Lake Havasu City to a small island that is home to homes, hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops. It still has many of the original ornate lamp posts from London and all of its 10,276 exterior granite blocks.  

4. The Golden Gate Bridge, California

San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge is now as iconic as the city itself. It was designed by American structural engineer Joseph B. Strauss. Construction on the bridge began in 1930 and was completed seven years later and, at a height of 746 feet, was then the world’s tallest suspension bridge.

It is 4,200 feet long and crosses the Golden Gate Strait to connect San Francisco with Marin County. It required several thousand workers to complete it at a cost of $35 million. The bridge is world-famous for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and its Art Deco features.  

5. The Sunshine Skyway Bridge, Florida

This bridge has its roots in a tragic accident between a freighter named the Summit Venture and the previous bridge on May 9, 1980. By 1987, the construction of its replacement, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge was completed. This cable-stayed bridge crosses Tampa Bay spanning 21,860 feet to connect Terra Ceia with St. Petersburg.

It has a maximum height of 430 feet. It features a bicycle and even a pedestrian lane. Some say it looks a bit like it has its own sails flowing in the wind because of its huge concrete goalposts and yellow cables.

6. The New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia

Next on our list of famous bridges, this structure is aptly named. It took just three years to build and was opened in 1977. It spans a distance of 3,030 feet and is the world’s “fifth-longest single-span bridge” and crosses the New River Gorge.  

Thanks to this bridge, a commute of at least 40 minutes is now only one minute. It reaches a height of 876 feet and features a graceful arch. The views from the bridge are spectacular.

7. The Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge, New Hampshire

The famous Cornish Windsor Covered Bridge spans an area of 460 feet. Completed in 1866, it is an exceptional example of a classic American wooden bridge from the 1800s. American architect and civil engineer used his own unique lattice truss design which he patented in both 1820 and 1835. As this goes to press, it remains one of the nation’s longest two-spanned covered bridges. This famous covered bridge crosses the rushing Connecticut River and joins the towns of Cornish and Windsor.  

8. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Maryland

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge is another famous bridge. At the time of its official opening in 1952, it was the world’s “longest steel structure running over continuous water.” It runs for 22,704 feet and reaches a maximum height of 186 feet. 

This famous bridge joins the state’s eastern and western shores. It is a two-lane bridge that is open to pedestrians on May 1st every year. People who suffer from a fear of bridges, gephyrophobia, say that this bridge is one of the world’s scariest because of the low visibility that occurs during storms. It can be so bad, you can’t see the ground while crossing the bridge.

9. The Skydance Bridge, Oklahoma

This famous bridge, the Skydance Bridge, is unlike the other bridges. It was not designed for vehicular traffic. It was designed for pedestrians.

This bridge is 60 feet wide and stretches over Interstate 40 to provide pedestrians with a safe way to cross the freeway. It is 380 feet in length and stands 192 feet high. The innovative design is the work of architects Hans and Torrey Butzer who said they were actually inspired by Oklahoma’s state bird, the scissor-tailed flycatcher. The design includes an imaginative “bridge and sculpture” combination. It features stainless steel panels that are positioned to create the impression of feathers.

10. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge, Washington

The original bridge opened sometime in 1940. Four months later, it was decimated by strong winds. A decade later, the bridge was replaced. It included stiffened struts and open trusses to more effectively handle strong winds.  

Traffic on the bridge went one way–west. It would not be until 2007 that another bridge was erected to handle traffic heading east. The bridge crosses the Narrows of Puget Sound. It joins the Olympic Peninsula to the state’s mainland. The bridge is 5,400 feet in length.  

11. The Mackinac Bridge, Michigan

The famous Mackinac Bridge was opened in 1957. It was an architectural marvel that handled four lanes of traffic. The entire bridge is 26,372 feet in length with its main span being 3,799 feet long.

It’s the western hemisphere’s longest suspension bridge. The bridge spans two Great Lakes, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron, joining St. Ignace with Mackinaw City. Most of it is composed of steel grating in order to provide optimal airflow and reduce the chances of the bridge being damaged by high winds.

12. The Rainbow Bridge, New York

No need to protest this bridge! This famous arch bridge officially opened to vehicular traffic back in 1941. It crosses the world-famous Niagara Gorge and connects the Niagara Falls in Canada with the Niagara Falls in the US. (Yes, we know that technically the famous Rainbow Bridge is on the border of both countries, but it still counts.)  

It is 1,450 feet long. Its longest span is 960 feet. At its highest point, it measures 202 feet. It doesn’t matter if you’re there taking pictures of the well-known falls from the bridge or photographing the bridge itself with the falls as a backdrop, the views here are truly unforgettable.

13. The Royal Gorge Bridge, Colorado

From start to finish, it took only half a year to complete the Royal Gorge Bridge. Opened in 1929, this famous steel suspension bridge near Cañon City was designed to be a part of the tourist attraction aptly named the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park amusement park. While visitors can enter from the north gate, they will discover the south end is actually blocked just past the bridge.

This noteworthy bridge garnered the official title of the world’s tallest bridge at a height of 955 feet. Unfortunately, in 2001 the Chinese erected a bridge that bumped it out of the top slot. It remains the highest bridge in the United States. It is 1,260 feet in length and its longest span measures in at 880 feet.

14. The Benson Bridge, Oregon

Last but not necessarily least on our list of most famous bridges in the US, is Benson Bridge. It was opened in 1914. It crosses Multnomah Creek between the two cascades of Multnomah Falls.

This footbridge-specific design includes a buttressed concrete floor arch. It is almost six feet wide and stretches out for 52 feet. Specifically, it allows the popular Multnomah Creek Trail to pass over the actual creek. It reaches a maximum height of 135 feet. The arch itself towers 105 feet over the falls’ lower section.

The USA has many beautiful cities. Indeed, tourists fall in love with American cities for a number of different reasons as they all have distinctive qualities of their own. Here to help you plan your next visit, are the 26 most beautiful cities in the USA.

The 26 Most Beautiful Cities In The USA

1. Washington DC

First on the list, is the nation’s capital, Washington DC. Here in the heart of the country’s government, you will find a number of beautiful national monuments. Highlights here include the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, the National World War II Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the National Arboretum pillars. Many of the neighborhoods here feature attractive rows of brick houses. The best time to visit is between March and April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

2. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is the largest city in the entire state. It is also a surprisingly lively city that stretches from lovely Lake Champlain to the verdant backcountry forests. In fact, the city often slots in as one of the best cities in the Northeast as well.

Burlington also often scores as being a great place for a romantic couples’ getaway. Tourists and locals alike praise its breweries and assorted eateries. Other highlights here include the Church Street Marketplace and wonderful Waterfront Park.

3. San Antonio, Texas

Regular readers may already know San Antonio is more than just the home of the world-famous Alamo and the Alamo Museum. This beautiful city offers arts and culture too. Once a Spanish colonial outpost, it features outstanding Spanish architecture, and the impressive San Antonio Missions too. Other striking worthwhile attractions include The Natural Bridge Caverns, historic King William Street, the popular San Antonio River Walk, the McNay Art Museum Courtyard, the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, and the San Antonio Museum of Art, filled with attractive Latin art.  

4. San Diego, California

San Diego is a city that is not only beautiful but also rife with culture. It has a festive culture that is due to its Mexican roots. Here you can enjoy a little stroll through popular Balboa Park,   

Go swimming, walk on the beach, or just soak up some sun at beautiful Pacific Beach. When you have enough Vitamin D, enjoy a cocktail at one of the bars then dine at one of the beach-proximate restaurants. Your best time to visit depends on your interests. San Diego holds culinary, film, music, visual arts, theater, and other seasonal festivals throughout the year.   

5. Honolulu, Hawaii

Next on our list of most beautiful cities is the state capital, Honolulu. (In English, Honolulu roughly translates to “calm port” or “sheltered harbor.” Many travelers visit this most populous place on the isle of Oahu for its beautiful beaches which come complete with comparatively calm water, fine, warm sand, and stunning sunsets.

Waikiki Beach is considered one of the island’s best beaches. It spans a distance of five miles which makes it one of the city’s longest beaches too. The gentle waters here are a great place to learn how to scuba dive or surf as well.  

6. Salt Lake City, Utah

If you’re into snow, the surprisingly beautiful city of Salt Lake City is perhaps best visited in the winter. For it is then that you can go skiing in the nearby majestic mountains. The valleys and the views make this city amazing. It’s reportedly one of the best places in the country for a winter vacation.  

Don’t like the snow? It’s okay. There are pretty places to enjoy there all year long. Don’t miss the Red Butte Garden, Big Cottonwood Canyon, This Is The Place Heritage Park, and Ensign Peak Park either!

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is not only beautiful, but it is also significant in terms of culture and music history. Indeed, this city is the birthplace of jazz music. Walk down Bourbon Street and you will find any number of clubs, pretty public parks, and even streets alive with music.

The magnificent architecture here is a blend of African and French cultures. It is both colorful and unique. If you have never experienced Mardi Gras, you’re missing out on the world-famous, traditional excitement. You can appreciate the aesthetics and the excitement in one trip.

8. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is North Carolina’s most populous city and more importantly, has its own individualistic beauty. It’s located at the confluence of the Swannanoa and French Broad rivers on the edge of the stunning Great Smoky Mountains not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you’re not into snow and winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding, you may want to visit another season. Regardless, highlights here include its well-known farm-to-table restaurants, interesting art galleries, impressive architecture, Biltmore Mansion, the Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina Arboretum, and craft breweries.

9. Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is generally underrated when it comes to beautiful cities. Nevertheless, it has its own memorable sense of urban beauty. Also on our list of best weekend getaways, it features numerous architectural attractions and many museums.

Be sure to check out the Rookery Building, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Lincoln Park Zoo, the awesome Aquae, the Cloud Gate, a.k.a. “The Bean”, in Millennial Park, and all the assorted eateries and attractions at the Navy Pier. Feeling energetic? Go bicycling along Milwaukee Avenue! 

10. Charleston, South Carolina

Charming Charleston follows on our list of the most beautiful cities. This historic city harkens back to 1670. Also the state’s largest city, it is known for its noteworthy architecture, various historic landmarks, and lovely, down-home charm.  

Accented by architecture from the 1800s, it includes cozy cobblestone streets lined with street lanterns. See famous Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began. Other points of interest are pretty Rainbow Row, the Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, and Waterfront Park near Charleston Harbor. Enjoy a meal at the award-winning restaurant, FIG, and bed down at the worthy Wentworth Mansion.

11. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs, nestled before a magnificent mountain range, is yet another of the most beautiful cities in America. Veteran visitors praise this city for its hiking trails, mountain ranges, verdant valleys, and beautiful sunsets. Be sure to visit the well-known large, lush public park known as Garden of the Gods Park. Saddle up a horse or pile into a jeep and head out to explore the numerous rugged peaks, rolling hills, and grassy acres. Don’t miss Pike’s Peak, the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.   

12. San Francisco, California

San Francisco’s beauty encompasses a number of different unforgettable landmarks that are honestly appreciated by tourists and residents alike. Bask in the man-made splendor of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and see sea lions.

Lunch at a restaurant on Pier 39, Tour the former prison, Alcatraz Island, and enjoy the views of the city. Shop in the famous old chocolate factory found in Ghirardelli Square on Van Ness Avenue. Take in the popular “Painted Ladies,” colorful Victorian townhouses amidst the towering city skyscrapers, and cruise Lombard Street too.     

13. Key West, Florida

You can’t have a list of beautiful cities without sunny Key West. Situated on an island known for its Cuban culture, this beach town is accented by Cuban architecture, nightlife, and neighborhoods. It includes some of the state’s best beaches and beautiful sunsets.  

Smathers Beach is exceptional for surfing and parasailing. If you have an interest in architecture but want to have fun as well then head for Duval Street. Not only is it fairly filled with examples of Cuban architecture, but it is also where you’ll find numerous bars and clubs. Be sure to stop in at The Green Parrot!

14. Hilo, Hawaii

All of Hawaii is beautiful so how could its cities not be? Hilo, however, is often ignored by many travel writers despite its beautiful parks, gorgeous gardens, and wondrous waterfalls. Located on the Big Island, one of Hilo’s beautiful waterfalls is named Rainbow Falls. 

This memorable waterfall is 80 feet tall and is thus named because people frequently see little in the mist created by the waterfall. If you enjoy gorgeous greenery, be sure to pay a visit to lovely Liliʻuokalani Gardens. It’s a serene Japanese garden that comes complete with fish ponds, rock gardens, and even an attractive Japanese-style bench.  

15. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is fairly famous for being the true birthplace of American democracy. Philly is fairly filled full of memorable museums, exceptional architecture, and historical sites. Indeed, the city is a marvelous melding of historic and modern buildings. There’s Independence Hall, Peddler’s Village, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 

the Kimmel Centre, the Liberty Bell Center, South Street, the Longwood Gardens, with its lights and giant tree house, and Elfreth’s Alley, the officially “oldest continuously inhabited residential street” in the country. Sample a cheesesteak and soft pretzel at Reading Terminal Market too!  

16. New York City, New York

Would you like to wake up in “the city that never sleeps”? New York City features a magnificent skyline, iconic tourist attractions, cultural diversity, assorted ethnic eateries, notorious nightclubs, and more. The architecture is awesome.

Highlights here include Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Guggenheim Museum, Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Times Square, Watkins Glen State Park, Sonnenberg Gardens, Rockefeller Center, and Mansion State Historic Park. Don’t forget the Empire State Building either! It offers visitors exceptionally beautiful views at sunset.

17. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara is well-known for its ruggedly beautiful coastline. This city features several beautiful beaches complete with warm sand, swaying palm trees, and stunning sunsets. Indeed, Butterfly Beach is particularly gorgeous.  

It’s popular with the locals, travelers, and even some celebrities. Enjoy a cocktail, soak up some sun, and relax. Stroll the palm-tree-lined streets and take in the quaint boutique shops and Spanish-inspired architecture.  

You’ll discover an amicable sense of community as you wander through the neighborhoods. Some travel bloggers say that Santa Barbara is one of the best cities to visit in the entire state and call it “one of the prettiest” cities on the coast.

18. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is nigh-famous for its beautiful Georgian-style architecture, popular art scene, and significant history. Walk down quaint cobblestone streets, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and see the authentic antebellum architecture. Check out the beautiful dome-like Savannah City Hall, and enjoy the Savannah Art Walk. Explore the different art galleries around the city’s numerous historic attractions. Walk down River Street along the sparkling waterfront and visit Forsyth Park. See the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and the SCAD (Savannah College of Art and Design) too.

19. Seattle, Washington

Seattle offers excellent views of Puget Sound. It’s reportedly not only one of the country’s most beautiful cities but also one of the officially “most liked cities” too. If you’re a film buff, visit during the Seattle International Film Festival. If you’re a foodie, get here in time for Oktoberfest.  

Seattle is famous for the birth of the Starbucks coffee franchise and the world-famous grunge rock band Nirvana. Check out Discovery Park, Pike Place Market, the Chihuly Garden, and Glass, Visit the Space Needle at sunset for the best views ever!

20. Sedona, Arizona

The city of Sedona is ruggedly beautiful. Its scarlet stones are a major draw to tourists. They take visitors back to the days of the ol’ wild west. If you enjoy the great outdoors or are big on hiking, Sedona should be on your bucket list. Here you can take a wine tour, go bicycling, kayaking, and stargazing on the rocks. Check out the rock art sites, the sacred vortexes, the Sedona Airport Overlook, the Sedona Heritage Museum, and Native American ruins as well.

21. Seward, Alaska

Don’t underestimate the beauty of the small city of Seward. It is stunning. It is perhaps best known for its charming small-town ambiance, beautiful scenery, and noteworthy fishing spots.  

You’ll enjoy the sight of its great glaciers, rushing rivers, and snow-capped mighty mountains. Visit the Resurrection River which flows from the Kenai Mountains. Fishermen love to fish for salmon here! If you prefer larger water-dwellers, sign on for an Orca Quest Cruise. More adventurous travelers may want to try a little ice hiking as well.

22. Newport, Rhode Island

The port town of Newport is not only the state’s most beautiful city but it also slots in as one of the nation’s “prettiest seaside cities.” It offers visitors a marvelous view of the Atlantic Ocean. Travelers who have their sea legs will surely enjoy sailing here as well. While you’re there be sure to check out all the opulent Gilded Age mansions too. Other highlights here include Bowen’s Wharf, the White Horse Tavern, and the Audrain Auto Museum. Hike the Cliff Walk trail too!  

23. Madison, Wisconsin

You might be surprised to hear that one of the things that makes Madison one of the most beautiful cities in the USA is not only its natural beauty but its fine examples of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture.  

Madison is nestled between Mendota and Monona Lakes. It features attractive trails that are great for both hiking and biking. Locals and tourists alike love the great farmer markets found here too. Be sure to check out the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and visit Lake Kegonsa State Park too.

24. Morrison, Colorado

The pretty city of Morrison is perhaps most famous for the popular Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. This incredible music theater is thus named because it was actually constructed of red rocks. This is a great city for outdoor activities as well.

One popular stop here is Dinosaur Ridge, where you can explore places previously occupied by a number of different dinosaurs. Other places to see include Morrison Natural History Museum, the lovely Lair O’ the Bear Park, and the fun-filled Tiny Town.

25. Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Coeur d’Alene is overflowing with natural beauty. You really must see the large and lovely Lake Coeur d’Alene. You will discover numerous hiking trails, such as the popular North Idaho Centennial Trail, and different campsites around the lake. Here you can engage in different watersports from swimming and kayaking to parasailing and jet skiing. Other highlights here include Harriman State ParkHarriman State Park, the impressive Coeur d’Alene Public Library, Devin Galleries, the Museum of North Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene Masonic Temple, and The Art Spirit Gallery. 

26. Cleveland, Ohio

Last but not least is the perhaps surprising inclusion of Cleveland. Ah, but the truth is Cleveland rocks. After all, it is here you will find the famous Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the museum dedicated to rock and roll music history. Looking for natural beauty? Check out adjacent Lake Erie. You should also see Edgewater Park, The Fountain of Eternal Life, The Arcade, Maltz Center for the Performing Arts, Cleveland Metroparks, Hope Memorial Bridge, the West Side Market, and even the historic Lakeview Cemetery.

Despite what certain mainstream media outlets might lead one to believe, America is not going to hell in a hand basket. Pockets of radical protestors-turned-rioters and would-be vigilantes do not speak for the less vocal, more peaceful majority.

Recently we explored America’s ten most dangerous cities. And while it’s undeniable that the US has its share of urban blight and violence, it’s worth noting that, overall, violent crime in America has been on a downward trajectory for three decades. With that in mind, it’s time the cities with more nationally representative safety records had their say.

As with the dangerous cities compilation, this list is based on rates of violent crime (which includes murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault) per the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s most recent comprehensive figures from 2018. Only cities with at least 200,000 residents were considered for inclusion on this list.

Top 10 Incredibly Surreal Places on Earth

10 Laredo, Texas

Mayor: Pete Saenz (Democrat)
Population: 261,639

The predominantly Latino city of Laredo ranks as both one of America’s least racially diversified cities^[1] and one of its safest. Its violent crime rate of 377 incidents per 100,000 residents is 11% below the national average and 18% lower than the state of Texas.^[2] Hugging the Mexican border directly across the Rio Grande from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, Laredo flies in the face of what too many Americans think of major cities.^[3] Laredo had just 10 homicides in 2018.

Though by no means affluent – its median household income of $39,400^[4] is a full $14,000 lower than the national average – Laredo has a thriving restaurant scene highlighted, of course, by unsurprisingly authentic Mexican cuisine. Texas A&M International University calls Laredo home and, despite being just the tenth largest city in Texas, the city has its own philharmonic orchestra and a popular semiprofessional soccer team.

No less than two dozen Catholic churches all offer mass en español and, each winter, the city hosts a nationally renowned birdwatching festival as well as an annual Mardi Gras–like celebration^[5] for George Washington’s birthday, featuring colonial costumes, pageants, balls and parades. Muy bueno… y muy segura.

9 Anaheim, California

Mayor: Harry Sidhu (Republican)
Population: 352,005

Despite the widely held, completely understandable urge to exterminate Mickey Mouse,^[6] Anaheim, California – home to the original Disneyland theme park – squeaks past Laredo for the #9 spot. In 2018, the city saw just seven murders, less than half the national average of five per 100,000 people.

Anaheim is a wealthy place, with a median household income approaching $60,000. Few major cities have median incomes surpassing the national average, since most high earners move to suburbs. However, California’s population is so massive – at 39.5 million residents, a full 12% of the US populace calls the Golden State home – that Anaheim, just ten miles southeast of Los Angeles, is essentially a suburb on steroids. It is both dense and affluent enough to host two professional sports teams, baseball’s Angels and hockey’s Mighty Ducks.

Still, Anaheim’s gravitational pull is centered squarely in Disneyland, which brings the city tourists, major business conventions and hospitality dollars that fuel its economy. Factoring in not only its 28,000 employees but the thousands of surrounding jobs it help create, Disneyland generates an estimated $5.7 billion^[7] for Southern California each year.

However, tourism inevitably breeds robbery (defined as theft via violence or threat of violence – basically mugging). Anaheim’s robbery rate of 114 per 100,000 is 28% above^[8] the national average – the lone Anaheim violent crime that outpaces the country at large.

8 Lexington, Kentucky

Mayor: Linda Gorton (Republican)
Population: 323,780

Nestled in the center of the state that brings us bourbon whiskey and bluegrass music, Lexington, Kentucky receives high marks for public schools and safety, and is often included on “best metro areas to live” lists.^[9]

Though Kentucky’s signature annual event, horseracing’s Kentucky Derby, is held 80 miles to the west in Louisville – the state’s largest city – Lexington’s star attractions include Kentucky Horse Park,^[10] a working horse farm, international equestrian competition venue and living museum. It is also home to the University of Kentucky, one of the more well-regarded major public colleges in the US.

Still, Lexington’s inclusion on this list comes with eyebrow-raising scrutiny: the reason it made the cut is that, in 2018, just 295 assaults were reported.^[11] That works out to 91 assaults per 100,000 residents; considering the national average of 247 assaults per 100,000 people, this figure is likely too good to be true. Further, assaults are by far the most common violent crime committed in America; robbery, at 86 incidents per 100,000, is a distant second. If Lexington’s 2018 assault statistic is accurate, that means it inexplicably had less assaults than robberies (422), and nearly as many rapes (243) as assaults.

7 Boise, Idaho

Mayor: Lauren McLean (Democrat)
Population: 228,790

Idaho’s largest city and capital is the first on this list with a violent crime rate under 200 per 100,000 residents: at 277 per 100,000, Boise’s stats are 27% lower^[12] than the national average. In 2018, the city reported just one murder.

In addition to its safety record, Boise’s relatively affordable home prices and well-rated public school system helped is rank #17 in U.S. News & World Report’s list of best metro areas to live in the nation. Though borrowed from its earliest settlers – who, upon surveying the surrounding Treasure Valley region, were impressed by its vast forestland – Boise’s nickname, the City of Trees, is today bolstered by one of the most picturesque botanical gardens in the country.^[13]

Ironically, one of Boise’s few problems derives from its own attractiveness: the city’s high quality of life has led to an influx of newcomers in what many are calling the city’s looming “Californiacation”^[14] – a term used when increased demand begins to drive up home prices, increase traffic and, through sheer classroom sizes, decrease the overall quality of public schools. It is projected that the Boise metro area, which currently has about 700,000 residents, will swell to nearly 800,000 by 2025 – an anticipated population growth of 15% in just half a decade.

Unfortunately, Boise’s mayor Lauren McLean is the subject of an ongoing recall attempt due to leaked reports of policies being proposed to defund law enforcement and implement sanctuary city status.^[15]

6 Irving, Texas

Mayor: Rick Stopfer (Republican)
Population: 242,242

Adjacent to a major city in the nation’s second most populous state, Irving, Texas has an advantage similar to the one enjoyed by Anaheim, California: it is essentially a sprawling suburb of Dallas, much of which – like Disneyland in Anaheim – are planned communities with the benefit of foresight. It’s easier to make the safe cities list when your area’s urban blight are in the larger, older metropolis just outside town limits – one whose violent crime rate is double the national average.^[16]

Still, credit where credit is due: Irving is a very attractive city with a sterling safety record. Its violent crime rate of 209 incidents per 100,000 residents is 45% lower than the national average, and basically half of Texas’ statistics.^[17] Irving also benefits from a strong regional economy; the entirety of its metro area (Dallas-Fort Worth) had a pre-pandemic unemployment rate under 3%, one reason Irving has been called one of the best cities to relocate for career purposes.

Oh – and Irving also has the world’s largest horse sculpture, a distinction so arcane that its inclusion in this narrative is mandatory regardless the theme. It is also home to the Ruth Paine House,^[18] where Lee Harvey Oswald stayed with his estranged wife, Marina, the night before he assassinated president Kennedy.

10 Post-Apocalyptic Places Transformed Into Stunning Landmarks

5 Henderson, Nevada

Mayor: Debra March (Democrat)
Population: 310,390

Henderson is the safer little sibling to its big brother’s legendary debauchery. Just southeast of Las Vegas, Henderson is a largely planned super-suburb so vast that the satellite city is also Nevada’s second largest. A delightful dichotomy, Henderson offers convenient proximity to Sin City’s famous Strip while offering a compelling outdoorsy lifestyle highlighted by gems like Lake Mead and Clark County Wetlands Park.

Henderson enjoys the benefits of Las Vegas – good-paying jobs, eclectic dining, world-class entertainment – without its drawbacks. Millions of tourists and non-stop partying are a recipe for robbery and rape, and Vegas doubles the national average in both.^[19] By contrast, Henderson’s violent crime rate is 188 per 100;000 residents – less than half^[20] the national average. Its assault rate of 92 per 100;000 is 63% lower than the country at large.

Due mostly to Las Vegas’ longstanding boom, Henderson is also exceptionally affluent. Its median household income of $72,884^[21] is more than $13,000 above the country at large, and its average property value approaches $340,000, pointing to high real estate demand as newcomers continue to flock to one of the nation’s fastest-growing metro areas.

4 Scottsdale, Arizona

Mayor: Jim Lane (Republican)
Population: 255,310

Like Henderson, NV, Scottsdale, Arizona is an enclave of a larger metropolitan area; like Anaheim, it is also a destination unto itself. Known for its luxurious spas and pristine golf courses, Scottsdale is a desert oasis 12 miles east of Phoenix, a boomtown of 1.6 million residents boasting the country’s fastest-growing population.^[22]

Scottsdale is as safe as it is beautiful. Its violent crime rate of 166 incidents per 100,000 residents is 57% lower than the national average. The city only reported seven murders in 2018 and, considering the fact that Scottsdale draws nine million tourists per year^[23] – 36 times its population – its robbery rate of 34 per100,000 is incredibly low (less than half the national average).

Scottsdale is, unsurprisingly, also quite wealthy. Like Henderson, its median household income is north of $72,000, and an impressive 81% of Scottsdale residents own their homes,^[24] a key indicator given the city’s lofty median home value of $483,000.

3 Plano, Texas

Mayor: Harry LaRosiliere (Republican)
Population: 288,061

Plano is a rarity possible only in places, like Texas, with tremendously large populations: it is simultaneously its own medium-sized city and an exurb^[25] of a major one. Dallas, the only city with two “safest city” satellites, is 20 miles to the south. Home to Fortune 500 companies like beverage behemoth Dr. Pepper-Snapple and marketing metrics giant Alliance Data, Plano is a self-sustaining economic base while also being commutable to the “big city” and its skyscraper office towers. These two factors add up to low unemployment and good-paying jobs; in fact, at $93,012, Plano boasts the second highest median income on a list of mostly affluent cities.

Given its advantages, Plano is about as safe as you’d expect. Its violent crime rate of 139 incidents per 100,000 residents is 64% below^[26] the national average. Only five murders were reported in 2018, and its assault rate of 72 per 100,000 is 3 1/2 times less than the country at large.

Plano has several charming attractions. The Heritage Farmstead Museum features a restored 19th-Century farm with original tools, furniture and a replica 1895 schoolroom, while the Interurban Railway Museum offers a vintage rail car ride along the Texas Electric Railway. A number of bucolic trails wind through Oak Point Park nature reserve, and just northeast of town lies Southfork Ranch^[27] – the iconic setting of the long-running TV series, “Dallas.”

2 Virginia Beach, Virginia

Mayor: Bob Dyer (Republican)
Population: 442,707

Capped off by a three-mile long boardwalk spanning several beautiful, well-maintained beaches, Virginia Beach – the state’s largest city – attracts nearly 20 million visitors^[28] each year, placing it among the most popular family vacation spots on the East Coast. Amid a bevy of beach town resorts, the boardwalk is a destination unto itself, featuring several theme parks, games, arcades, fishing piers and even its own guided dine-around tour.

The extent to which tourists – especially distracted families – attract opportunistic criminals cannot be understated. Crooks have been ripping off and robbing vacationers since the advent of leisure travel and, considering this, Virginia Beach’s violent crime rate of 117 incidents per 100,000 residents – nearly 70% less than the national average – is extraordinarily low. Its robbery rate is less than half the nation’s norm, assaults come in more than four times lower, and in 2018 the city reported just seven murders.

But it’s the scarcity of one non-violent crime in particular that exemplifies Virginia Beach’s exceptional safety: theft. Despite a family tourism-driven economy that constitutes a pickpocket’s dream, the city’s theft rate is lower than the national average.

Virginia Beach’s economic stats are typical of so safe a city: its median household income of $75,623 far outpaces the national average, and its average home sale price of $315,000 (and rising)^[29] is high considering many sales are vacation condo units rather than standalone primary houses.

1 Irvine, California

Mayor: Christina Shea (Republican)
Population: 282,572

Irvine is about as planned as a full-scale city can get. Founded by the Irvine Company in the 1960s, the Orange County municipality lies in the southeast quadrant of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, just outside Its listmate, Anaheim.

Whatever the plan was for the 66-square-mile city, it worked: Irvine is by far America’s safest urban landscape. At 56 incidents per 100,000 residents, Irvine’s violent crime rate is less than half that of this list’s runner-up, and 85% lower^[30] than the national average. In fact, in 2018 none of the four offenses comprising violent crime – murder, rape, robbery and assault – reached triple digits in Irvine, and that same year the city didn’t report a single murder.

Part of Irvine’s well-thought-out pleasantness is a healthy mix of commerce, culture and outdoor experience. The Irvine Spectrum Center is one of Southern California’s most popular shopping, dining and entertainment lifestyle destinations, and its Pretend City Children’s Museum frequently shows up on “best of” lists compiled by prominent parenting outlets. Meanwhile, San Jaoquin Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Southern California’s most highly touted.

Several large tech companies call Irvine home, as does the headquarters for Taco Bell (yuck) and In-N-Out Burger (yum). It’s median income of $95,573^[31] outpaces the national average by over 50%.

Top 10 Places Famous For Bizarre Reasons

In 1949, Eric Blair, known by the pen name of George Orwell, published 1984; a novel that has shown its predictive power manifested in the current state of society. Blair coined the term “Big Brother” for the symbolic figurehead of the totalitarian state, Oceania. In the dystopian society, every citizen is under constant surveillance with the government’s slogan: “Big Brother is watching you,” a reminder of the state’s omnipresence. Our government has taken a slightly different approach, but the end game is much the same. The leaks by Edward Snowden bring to light what many of us already believed, that the United States is moving closer and closer to a society where its citizens have nearly all actions monitored. In light of this, here are 10 ways that we’re living in a Big Brother Society without knowing it.

This is an encore of one of our previous lists, as presented by our YouTube host Simon Whistler. Read the full list!