The 10 Most Beautiful Cities In The US, According To Visitors

Every city has its sweet spots. Think iconic views from Los Angeles' Griffith Observatory or Central Park in New York City. But what makes an entire city feel particularly beautiful? Be it natural attractions such as gardens and parks, phenomenal architecture, or particularly well-preserved local heritage, the most attractive cities in the U.S. have a particular knack for combining at least a couple, if not all, of these attributes. And that's not to mention the ineffable feeling of the city itself, with its quaint brick storefronts, cobblestone streets, striking bridges, or extensive shorelines.

San Francisco's bright, hilly streets, for example, are set against the spectacular backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and its namesake bay. Pittsburgh's downtown sits on a scenic point at the confluence of two rivers that create a third. Revolutionary War-era buildings stand amid contemporary structures in Boston in a visually remarkable juxtaposition of history and styles, while Portland, Maine, embraces its atmospheric and rugged New England coastline. When planning your next city vacation, consider paying a visit to these 10 urban hubs, which visitors and residents alike have called the most beautiful in the country.

Landing the top spot on TimeOut's ranking of the world's most beautiful cities according to locals, Chicago takes the cake for the city that residents overwhelmingly think is a real aesthetic gem. Hugging Lake Michigan, Chicago's architecture is a smorgasbord of styles towering over the picturesque Chicago River, where you can take a number of river boat tours showcasing the stunning city skyline.

In Chicago, iconic buildings like the mid-century Marina City — known affectionately as the "Corn Cobs" — meet postmodern towers, Art Deco masterpieces, and ornate stone and steel constructions from the late 19th century. Some of the most elaborate structures date back to the "Great Rebuilding," a period of recovery after the city's disastrous 1871 fire that launched the likes of architect Louis Sullivan to fame. You'll find many of these along the retail destination of Michigan Avenue, including the remarkable 1920s Carbide & Carbon Building, which was modeled after a champagne bottle. On State Street, step inside Macy's and remember to look up — you'll be treated to an incredible 1907 mosaic ceiling designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany.

To take in glorious views of Navy Pier, the Chicago skyline, parks, and beaches, take a spin down Lake Shore Drive, a one-of-a-kind Midwest road highlighting some of the world's best architecture. Gaze up at the reflective surface of Anish Kapoor's "Cloud Gate," referred to often as "The Bean," then wander around Millennium Park to take in numerous art installations and lovely gardens in the spring. Along the Chicago River, giant projections illuminate the facade of the Merchandise Mart with original art. And north of downtown, admire the gleaming white exterior of the Bahá'í House of Worship and its mandala-like formal gardens.

Many travelers consider Seattle to be the most beautiful city in the U.S., due to its combination of urban design and unique natural surroundings. Sandwiched between Elliott Bay and Washington Lake, it's a city defined by water, the coast, and astonishing forested landscapes just outside of the city limits. On a clear day, you can see the incredible Mount Rainier from numerous vantage points in the city, including Kerry Park, which offers one of the best spots to take in both the skyline and the distant, snow-capped volcano. It's elevated on a hill, so you can enjoy spectacular views of Seattle's iconic Space Needle, itself also a place to enjoy amazing panoramas from above.

Pike Place Market is a time-honored attraction that's a veritable wonderland of food, shopping, and local culture. Take in world class paintings, sculptures, and more at Seattle's three major art museum locations: the flagship Seattle Art Museum, Seattle Asian Art Museum, and Olympic Sculpture Park. The latter offers great views over the water and a perfect place to take a picnic.

Sometimes, what makes a city beautiful has a lot to do with places that feel like they're not in the city at all, such as nature preserves and parks. That's where Seattle's Discovery Park comes in — a downtown oasis spanning 560 acres on the site of a former fort. Relax at the beach on a warm day, wander around the lighthouse, and take in views of the Olympic Peninsula's mountains over Puget Sound.

With oceanfront, tropical vibes, mountains, and an attractive skyline all in one place, Honolulu certainly notches some beauty points. Hawaii's stunning capital city is full of breathtaking nature, resorts, and historic sights, where sandy beaches, a fusion of architectural styles, and waterfalls just outside of town add up to a truly incredible hub in the Pacific Ocean.

At Honolulu Harbor, keep an eye out for Aloha Tower, a century-old building that was originally built as a lighthouse and an emblem of welcome for arriving ships. Today, a couple of piers are still used for docking cruise ships, while much of the area has been transformed into a marketplace with eateries and shopping. Downtown, in the Hawaii Capital Historic District, check out the Iolani Palace, a former royal residence of the historic Hawaiian Kingdom, where monarchs lived in late 19th century before Hawaii was annexed as a U.S. territory in 1898. Practically right next door, the Kawaiahaʻo Church is the first Christian house of worship on O'ahu, built using 14,000 slabs of coral. About 2.5 miles north, don't miss a stop at the historic Bishop Museum, which features vibrant exhibitions about Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, plus natural history, zoology, and more — all housed within a 19th-century hall that was originally a boys' school.

It would be remiss of us not to mention the neighborhood of Waikiki, the beating heart of Honolulu's beachfront with myriad hotels and resorts. Immerse yourself in this city's coastal splendor by sunbathing on the gleaming sand, taking surf lessons, or booking a catamaran ride to relax with a Mai Tai and take in the sunset.

No list of beautiful cities in the U.S. would be complete without a mention of Savannah, Georgia's oldest city with lush gardens and picturesque streets. Famous for its tree-lined streets and enigmatic cemeteries and parks, the 18th-century Southern community is a gem of architectural preservation. If the South Historic District's Forsyth Park was a jewel, it would almost certainly be an emerald, thanks to its huge live oak trees draped in mystical Spanish moss and inviting, manicured lawns surrounding ornate fountains.

Around the park, a grid of streets lined with historic homes and even more trees make this a postcard-worthy place to wander around. Jones Street is a particular favorite, featuring gorgeous heritage homes like the Eliza Thompson House and its shady brick walkways. Peek into nearly two-dozen public squares around the historic district that have been conserved as part of the city's original 1733 layout. You'll find many more manor museums to dip into, from stunning Italianate mansions like the Mercer Williams House and Andrew Low House, to maritime history lapping at the walls of The Pirates' House and the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum, which sits inside of Scarborough House.

If you can't get enough of the Spanish moss-cloaked trees, stroll through the Wormsloe State Historic Site to see the ruins of an 18th-century colonial estate, then wander around the tranquil and otherworldly Bonaventure Cemetery, just east of the city center on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River.

Located on the coast of southern Maine, Portland has a population of nearly 70,000, making it one of the smaller cities on this list and, arguably, even more beautiful for it — the greater metropolitan area is home to around half a million residents. You simply can't visit without trying locally-caught lobster while taking in gorgeous harbor views at restaurants like Island Lobster Company and Saltwater Grille. Alternatively, explore the public piers along Portland's expansive waterfront, a port that's been operating for more than 350 years. Tour company Portland by the Foot offers guided group walks that delve into the multifaceted history of Maine's largest city, a lively hub of waterfront fun and old walkable streets. Take in stories of the city's past while traversing charming brick sidewalks. Participants are taken on a tour of the scenic Old Port neighborhood, lined with Victorian buildings, and the lovely Casco Bay.

Situated along the rugged New England coastline, Portland has no shortage of other maritime sights and natural stretches within easy reach of downtown. You'll find plenty of stunning points from which to take in the sunrise or simply enjoy a relaxing walk or picnic, such as Bug Light Park, or the glorious Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park slightly farther south. And don't miss the view of town and over Casco Bay from the beautifully restored Portland Observatory, open from late May to mid-October, which glimpses the unique past of the only maritime signal tower still standing in the U.S.

Pittsburgh has long been associated with its industrial past, especially for its steel manufacturing and coal mining. And while the Mon Valley, south of downtown, was once dotted with factories and mills, most of these are long gone today. It's a Rust Belt city that went through a challenging transition during the 1970s and 1980s as the local steel industry declined, but has since experienced something of a renaissance thanks to its emphasis on education, research, and cultural institutions like the Carnegie Museums, including the vibrant and immersive Andy Warhol Museum. Its beauty can be attributed to its natural surroundings in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, its downtown nestled at the photo-worthy meeting point of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers, which together form the Ohio River.

For some of the best views of the city, head to a number of scenic overlooks from local hills. Mount Washington is among the most impressive, not only for its open overview of downtown but also its historic funiculars known as the Duquesne and Monongahela Inclines. The West End Overlook also offers panoramic views of downtown and its distinctive bridges. Down at the river level, wander through Point State Park, the former site of Fort Pitt, which is outlined on the lawn. Even more history can be found at the gorgeous Frick Pittsburgh family mansion called Clayton, which features an art collection, car and carriage museum, and pleasant gardens.

American history buffs won't be able to get enough of Boston, one of the most iconic destinations in the U.S. to visit at least once. It played a significant role during the American Revolution, earning it the nickname "Cradle of Liberty" for its central role in the nation's fight for independence from the British, and pivotal events like The Boston Massacre and The Battle of Bunker Hill.

Brick lanes and 18th-century houses still exist alongside more modern towers. The stunning Old Massachusetts State House is a colonial-era building dating to 1713 that strikes a dramatic scene amid tall contemporary skyscrapers, which somehow make it seem even more impressive. You can also visit the 1742 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the neoclassical Quincy Market built in 1826, and the gorgeous Trinity Church, completed in 1872. Boston's Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile brick-lined walking route through the city's Revolution-era history. It connects many of these historic sites, as well as the Granary Burying Ground, the Old Corner Bookstore, Paul Revere's clapboard house, and the wooden ship known affectionately as "Old Ironsides," among many others.

If you're craving a break from the hustle and bustle, Boston's Public Garden is a beautiful escape full of greenery and fountains. The oldest botanical garden in the country, it was established in 1837 and features picturesque and relaxing pathways through carefully curated floral displays with a Victorian flair. Walk around the lagoon, go for a float on a historic swan boat, or relax beneath a shady tree with a picnic.

Home to icons like the Golden Gate Bridge, classic neighborhoods like Nob Hill, the Painted Ladies along Alamo Square Park, and so much more, San Francisco is easily one of the most beautiful cities in the nation. There are numerous San Francisco Bay views you can get to without hiking, and views of its recognizable skyline — especially the Transamerica Pyramid — are a treat. Golden Gate Park is an expansive oasis in the middle of the city, spanning more than 1,000 acres — so large that amid its gardens, memorials, museums, and promenades, a herd of bison can be spotted roaming around the western side of the park. The de Young Museum presents world-class art exhibitions in an outstanding, copper-clad contemporary building, and the Japanese Tea Garden brings a taste of the Land of the Rising Sun to California — the oldest garden of its kind in the U.S.

Located in the Marina District, the Palace of Fine Arts is one of the city's most attractive buildings. Its Greco-Roman exterior nestles into verdant parkland, and from here, you can take in a spectacular view of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco's most famous landmark. And of course, not forgetting that water is central to the city's history and culture, don't miss a visit to the renowned Fisherman's Wharf neighborhood, where you can rent a bike, board a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus, and stick around for plenty of dining and shopping. Visit Pier 39 to see the beloved local sea lions, look across San Francisco Bay toward Alcatraz Island, charter a boat trip to enjoy a different vantage point, and observe activity in the vibrant marina.

In a similar vein to Savannah, which is only a little more than 100 miles southwest, Charleston's historic architecture meets an immanently charming downtown — the result of concerted efforts to preserve the city's heritage. This South Carolina gem is a popular destination for a coastal getaway, featuring nearby islands brimming with beaches that make for a relaxing retreat on the Atlantic Ocean, and the impressive ruins of Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. The first European colonists arrived in 1670, and its architectural styles range from this period to many more throughout its long history. You'll find buildings designed in Federal, Classic Revival, Gothic Revival, Victorian, and Italianate styles, among others. Many of these feature gorgeous brickwork, like the 18th-century Heyward-Washington House, as well as colorful facades such as the cheerful painted Georgian townhomes of Rainbow Row.

The neoclassical Charleston City Market is a must-visit for dining and shopping, where you can find locally-crafted art and gifts, such as sweetgrass baskets woven by Gullah artisans. Take a tour of the lovely Nathanial Russell House, an 1808 merchant's home that has been fully restored to its original glory, including its formal gardens. For more in the way of nature and beautiful views over the water, don't miss a stroll through the lush Charleston Waterfront Park, home to an impressive fountain and walkways lined with palm trees, benches, and tree canopies that make it a perfect place to relax on a warm day. 

One of the oldest cities in the U.S., San Antonio has a wealth of Spanish architectural heritage, beautiful green spaces, and the highest amount of free things to do in America. Despite being called one of the biggest tourist traps in the world by USA Today, the scenic River Walk is not to be missed for first-time visitors to the city. Visit "The Grotto" by artist Carlos Cortés, see sculptures in the Public Art Garden, take a boat tour, snap photos of the colorful tunnels, and grab dinner at Boudro's or Brenner's on the River Walk.

As Texas' only UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a remarkable slice of history that encompasses five incredible Catholic missions established by Spanish priests in the early 1700s. Built in 1731, Mission Conceptión is the oldest unrestored stone church in the U.S., and Mission San José is endeared with the nickname "The Queen of Missions," as it's the largest and most impressive with gorgeous stonework. You also won't want to miss a visit to the Alamo, a pivotal landmark that commemorates Texas' fight for independence from what was, at the time, a territory of Mexico.

San Antonio Botanical Garden is ideal for a pleasant stroll, home to 39 acres of gorgeous greenery, including a "Family Adventure Garden" that's perfect for the kids. The architecturally remarkable Lucile Halsell Conservatory complex, comprising a series of geometric greenhouses, features a wide range of exotic plants including cacti, ancient ferns, palms, and more.

There are truly beautiful areas in just about every city in the U.S., whether a particular neighborhood pops to mind or the entire place just seems to emanate a truly unique atmosphere. To create this roundup, we focused on the latter, using rankings by renowned outlets such as TheCultureTrip.com and TimeOut as starting points for our research. We also looked to Reddit discussion forums, focusing on the destinations mentioned most often in conversations about the most beautiful cities in the country. 

The author drew on her personal experiences visiting most of the cities on this list. Plus, we referenced information from local tourism sites like HistoricHawaii.org, GoHawaii.com, Seattle.gov, VisitSavannah.com, VisitPortland.com, Boston.gov, SFTravel.com, Charleston-SC.com, and others. We also consulted attractions' official websites, such as TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com, SABot.org, TheFreedomTrail.org, and HistoricCharleston.org, among others. Additional information and context came from sites like WTTW.com, AtlasObscura.com, and NPS.gov. In terms of selecting specific attractions or sites worth visiting, we relied on the highly-rated recommendations on well-known platforms such as Tripadvisor, AllTrails, and Google Reviews.