fun tourist cities

The 25 most fun cities in the US

• WalletHub recently released its rankings for the most fun cities in the US .
• Over 180 cities were analyzed and ranked according to three key factors: entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs. 
• Las Vegas , a hub for upscale casinos, nightlife, and incredible restaurants, landed the top spot for the most fun city in America.
• Here are the most fun cities in the US, ranked.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

The next time you're scheduling a family vacation or weekend away, you may want to consider going to one of the most fun cities in the US. 

Personal finance website WalletHub released their ranking for the most fun cities in America , based on a number of factors including entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs. Costs ranked from lowest to highest, with a No. 1 ranking indicating that the city had the lowest costs associated with it. For the other two categories, a No. 1 spot indicated the cities scored the most points for metrics relating to entertainment and recreation and nightlife and parties.

To determine how each city ranked according to those three main factors, the study analyzed over 66 metrics across more than 180 cities, including categories like number of attractions, the diversity of restaurants in that area, the numbers of dance clubs, public beaches, and movie theaters per capita, and the prevalence of affordable restaurant rated 4.5 stars and up.

Check out the top 25 most fun cities in the US to see if yours made the cut. 

25. Tucson, AZ

Tucson, Arizona — home to the University of Arizona — was deemed the most affordable city in the top 25 most fun cities in America. It came in third for costs, overall. 

24. Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale, Florida is known for its beaches, boating canals, and main promenade lined with upscale restaurants and shopping boutiques. 

23. San Antonio, TX

San Antonio is the ninth-cheapest city on the list. The city has also been ranked as one of the best US cities for affordability and quality of life . 

22. Salt Lake City, UT

Nestled in a mountain valley between the Wasatch mountains to the east and north and the Oquirrh Mountains to the west, Salt Lake City scored 42.69 out of 100 across WalletHub's metrics. 

21. Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati, Ohio came in at No. 19 for entertainment and recreation. Main attractions there include the Cincinnati Zoo, Findlay Market, and the Cincinnati Art Museum.

20. Philadelphia, PA

Home of the Philly Cheesesteak, Philadelphia is a destination for pop culture fanatics and history nerds alike. Visitors can see the Liberty Bell and climb the stairs made famous by the 1976 classic film "Rocky."

19. Houston, TX

Houston is the largest city in the South and the Southwest , and the fourth-most populated city in the country. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is the world's largest livestock show and has hosted performers like Jason Aldean, Beyoncé, Bon Jovi, and most recently Kacey Musgraves and Cardi B. 

18. St. Louis, MO

St. Louis attracts more than 25.88 million visitors each year. St. Louis offers more free major attractions than any other US city, apart from Washington D.C. 

17. Seattle, WA

Seattle, Washington came in tenth place for entertainment and recreation.

16. Tampa, FL

Domestic visitors to Tampa, Florida visitors make up 61.4 percent of the market . Tourism also supports more than 48,000 local jobs and $2 billion in wages . 

15. Washington, DC

Washington D.C. has the highest number of free attractions in any US city. However, the city is still expensive to visit. It scored 174 points for categories relating to costs. 

14. Denver, CO

Visitors to and residents of Denver have access to a number of exciting and fun activities, including the Denver Art Museum and resorts in the nearby Rocky Mountains. 

13. Honolulu, HI

Hawaii is the happiest state in the US , according to a recent report. Honolulu claims the top ranking for most festivals per capita. 

12. New Orleans, LA

New Orleans also ranks highly for the most festivals per capita, coming in third behind Honolulu and San Francisco. New Orleans' delicious food, annual Mardi Gras celebration, and rich cultural history attracted nearly 18 million visitors in 2017 . 

11. Austin, TX

Austin came in eleventh place for nightlife and parties. 

10. Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles offers a number of exciting activities, from shopping to hiking and incredible dining options. The California city ranked as No. 8 in entertainment and recreation.

9. San Diego, CA

San Diego ranked third for entertainment and recreation. 

8. Portland, OR

Portland had the third-highest number of accessible bars, behind New York and Las Vegas.

7. San Francisco, CA

San Francisco tied for the highest number of dance clubs per capita with Las Vegas and Orlando, FL. The city came in fourth for entertainment and recreation overall. 

6. Atlanta, GA

Atlanta, Georgia boasts a thriving food scene —  CNN Travel even questioned whether the Southern city will inevitably become one of America's "foodie capitals" in 2015.

5. Chicago, IL

Known as "the Windy City," Chicago attracts visitors from across the country to try its legendary deep-dish pizza. The city also offers fun tourist attractions like the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, otherwise known as the Chicago Bean, and Navy Pier.

4. Miami, FL

Whether you want to eat delicious food, lounge on the beach, or go out dancing, Miami is the place to go. This fun city ranks fourth for nightlife and parties, living up to its "Miami Vice" reputation. 

3. New York, NY

New York City, the most populous city in the US, scored the top spot for entertainment and recreation and the second-highest ranking for nightlife and parties behind Las Vegas. New York City had the most restaurants per capita out of the cities analyzed in the report. 

2. Orlando, FL

Home of popular theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, Orlando ranked No. 2 for entertainment and recreation and No. 3 for nightlife and parties. Costs to visit Orlando, Florida are also relatively low, coming in as the seventeenth-cheapest city.

1. Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas landed the top spot for the most fun city in America, with very high rankings in both entertainment and nightlife. 

• The happiest states in America, ranked
• The 19 best cities in the world in 2019
• The 17 best US cities to live a nice life and still save money, ranked
• The 50 best suburbs in America, ranked

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The 50 best cities in the world in 2024

We quizzed thousands of city-dwellers to rank the best cities in the world right now. Ready?

What makes a city great? Some would say it’s all about   buzzing neighbourhoods , affordable food and drink and a mighty selection of things to do, from art galleries and museums to live music and theatre. Others might highlight things like the happiness of its locals, access to green space and strong community vibes.

We factor in all that and more in our annual survey, which asks city-dwellers around the world to tell us what it’s like to live, work and play in their hometowns right now. Thanks to the opinions and insights of locals on the ground and our global network of city experts, we’re able to create a global ranking of the world’s best cities – and the 2024 results are in.

As in previous years, the basis of the ranking remains our global survey of the people who know their city best: the locals. Working with research company Potentia Insight, we surveyed thousands of city-dwellers about the quality and affordability of food, culture and nightlife in their city. We also asked locals how their city makes them feel: are they happy there? Is it a beautiful place? Is it easy to make social connections? Their thousands of responses gave us a unique insight into the reality of living in the world’s greatest cities right now.

Now that international travel is forecast to bounce back to the highest levels since 2019 , many travellers will be planning a   city break   this year – so in 2024, we added a little extra weight to a city’s global appeal. Each survey respondent was asked which other city they would most like to live in, and we polled more than 100 well-travelled Time Out staff writers and editors, based all over the world, for their take on which cities are particularly exciting places to visit right now. 

So, ready to find out which cities came out on top this year? On your marks, get set…

RECOMMENDED: 🌍 The   24 best things to do in the world in 2024 😎 The   coolest neighbourhoods in the world right now 🖼️ The   world’s best cities for culture 🚦 The coolest streets in the world in 2024

An email you’ll actually love

The 50 best cities in the world for 2024

1.  New York

What makes us great: You know it as ‘the city that never sleeps’ because many of its restaurants, bars and shops are open 24 hours a day, but the adage extends to New York ’ s spirit, too. This vibrant metropolis is always adapting, always innovating and always pushing the boundaries. It's never asleep. It's fully awake. That means constant must-see exhibits across the city’s galleries and museums, including the MoMA , the Whitney and the American Museum of Natural History . Its neighbourhoods hold the foundation together with their respective community-led events like the Queens Night Market in Flushing, the Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown and the West Indian Day Parade in Crown Heights. No matter the time of year, there’s always a good party to go to, from a ‘Sip and Stitch’ gathering inside a designer's Chelsea studio to the all-out blowouts at Bushwick's House of Yes . All of this set within the historic boundaries of the city makes NYC shine despite its grit.

Visit now because: NYC is having an incredibly busy Broadway season this spring. Not only are top-rated shows like Sondheim's ‘Merrily We Roll Along’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’ continuing, but the city will see a deluge of new productions, including the highly-anticipated ‘The Notebook’, ‘Water for Elephants’ and ‘The Who's Tommy’ . Make sure to bookmark our guide to upcoming Broadway shows now. 

The big numbers: There’s no denying the allure of the Big Apple. When it came to the city people wanted to move to most, New York was head and shoulders above the rest, with 15 percent of survey respondents saying they’d relocate there in a heartbeat.

📍 Discover the best things to do in New York City

2.  Cape Town

What makes us great:  With Table Mountain – laced with well-marked walking trails – at the heart of a peninsula fringed by glorious beaches, it’s not hard to be smitten by Cape Town ’s natural beauty. But spend a few days here and the Mother City’s multicultural soul quickly shines through. In the District Six Museum and on Robben Island you’ll get to grips with the country’s turbulent history (remember that South Africa marks 30 years of democracy in 2024), while the colourful homes of Bo-Kaap are an invitation to discover the city’s vibrant Cape Malay community. More and more visitors are using tourist dollars to support independent businesses in townships, while Cape Town’s creative landscape is alive with new energy. Studios, galleries and public events abound – come for the Investec Cape Town Art Fair each February – while Cape Town is also famously the most LGBTQ+-friendly city on the continent.   

Visit now because: The new Time Out Market Cape Town is buzzing! You’ll find a dozen of the city’s most creative chefs under a single roof, all set within an historic building on the charming harbourside V&A Waterfront. 

The big numbers: Cape Town scored highly across the board. A whopping 100 percent of locals said the city is beautiful and that it made them happy, while Cape Town’s culture scene ranked highest in the world for its quality. 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Cape Town

3.  Berlin

What makes us great: Berlin  is so much more than its clubs, its galleries, and its reputation as the European capital of cool. The city might not be known for its friendliness, but Berliners are the heart and soul of the German capital. Whether you’re posted up at a smokey pub in Neukölln for people watching, finding your footing on the dancefloor in Friedrichshain, or making your voice heard at any number of community-led protests in Kreuzberg, you’re sure to find your place with likeminded people in Berlin. Getting between the 12 districts with public transportation is easy, but renting a bike is a great way to see the city. Bike lanes criss-cross the capital, and there are seemingly endless wide open green spaces (Tempelhof Field, a disused airport tarmac turned into a massive park, is a local favourite).

Visit now because: This year marks 20 years of Monster Ronson’s Ichiban Karaoke , Berlin’s best-known karaoke bar. Join in the celebration this November, or drop in seven nights a week to belt out your favourite showstopper from the comfort of a private booth. Feeling brave? Take it to the main stage.

The big numbers: We know well that Berliners like to party, and if our survey’s anything to go by, they’re in the right place for it – Berlin’s nightlife scene had an impressive 82 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Berlin

4.  London

What makes us great: Londoners make London great. Nowhere else in the world can you rub shoulders with such a diverse yet weirdly homogeneous group of people. Is our home as friendly as Dublin , as beautiful as Paris or as gastronomically hyped as Tokyo ? No. But judging by the fact London is consistently named the best city in the world, Europe , and so on, it obviously doesn’t matter. Our galleries are free. Our parks are massive. Our pubs are legendary. Our kebab meat is plentiful. There’s no city like it, and if you don’t agree, we genuinely don’t care. But please visit!

Visit now because: There’s quite simply more to do here than anywhere else on earth, but in recent years our fair city’s been criticised for an ailing nightlife scene. Well, that’s all changed. London now is home to a whole bunch of massive, cutting-edge nightclubs. What they lack in underground grittiness they make up for in jumbo sound systems and killer lineups. Pay a visit to Outernet , Drumsheds or KOKO Electronic to see what we’re on about.

The big numbers: Despite what you might’ve heard about misery and rain, 94 percent of Londoners said they’re happy and 95 percent said they find the city beautiful. London also had the third-highest ‘pull factor’ of all cities surveyed, with 9 percent of respondents saying they’d move there if they could.

📍 Discover the best things to do in London

5.  Madrid

What makes us great: Whether you’re from Madrid or not, when you’re here, we’re all Madrileños. It's a welcoming and lively city that stands out for its exciting (daily) nightlife, its spectacular food, its internationally renowned chefs and its vibrant culture. Don’t just listen to us: in the last year alone, Salmon Guru was crowned one of the best cocktail bars in the world , David Muñoz has once again been voted the best chef on the planet and the Royal Collections Gallery was one of the most important museum projects in Europe. Big names aside, the essence of Madrid is found in its neighborhoods, where lifelong neighbours and century-old stores coexist with new art galleries and specialty cafe – as is the case in Carabanchel, chosen as the third best neighborhood in the world in 2023 . Given all of that, it’s no wonder Madrid is so popular with tourists – as evidenced by the amount of new hotels (most of them luxury) opening their doors around the city, from The Madrid Edition to the UMusic Hotel and the Thompson Madrid .

Visit now because: Any time is a good time to come and enjoy Madrid, but in 2024 the city will experience an explosion of international concerts due to the renovation of the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium . In the coming months, Taylor Swift, Luis Miguel and Karol G will be coming to the Spanish capital. In addition, The Boss (Bruce Springsteen) will perform on no less than three nights in another of the city's stadiums, the Metropolitano, home of Atlético de Madrid.

The big numbers: Did we mention the food is fantastic? Well, it’s worth reiterating – Madrid’s food scene got a very impressive 94 percent approval rating from Madrileños.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Madrid

6.  Mexico City

What makes us great: With a museum on every corner, it’s no surprise Mexico City was named the best city in the world for culture in 2023. There’s plenty more where that came from this year, with exciting emerging art spaces like Laguna , new galleries like Naranjo , and eagerly awaited international exhibitions like Damien Hirst at Museo Jumex . CDMX is also at the forefront of a vibrant gastronomic revolution, from mushroom cultivation at Tencui , Japanese coffee at Panya and the best brisket at Ahumados Pelican . The dark kitchens of Roma will surprise you, San Miguel Chapultepec’s artsy offerings will captivate you, breakfast in Condesa will be delicious and an afternoon in Coyoacán will be unforgettable. Get ready to fall even more in love with our neighbourhoods, our food and our warmth when you visit CDMX this year.

Visit now because: In the summer, the Cineteca Nacional will open a new home in the Bosque de Chapultepec, featuring eight theatres and an outdoor forum. 

The big numbers: Mexico City scored highly for its overall liveability, with 100 percent of locals naming the city beautiful, 96 percent saying they were happy there and 94 percent saying it’s easy to make friends.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Mexico City

7.  Liverpool

What makes us great: There's more to Liverpool than Beatles tours and football matches. In fact, it's one of the best places in the world to go for a guaranteed-good-time. The true city that never sleeps, spots such as 24 Kitchen Street , home to some of the city's best DJs, or dive bars like Salt Dog Slims provide ample opportunities for late nights. But the city looks just as good in daylight, with a smiling face on every corner, and plenty of up-and-coming talent to champion, whether you're sampling small plates at Michelin-mentioned Belzan or checking out the work of local artists at FACT . 

Visit now because: Still on a high off the back of hosting Eurovision, there's plenty of music events to look forward to in Liverpool this year. In The Park , hosted by much-loved local singer-songwriter Jamie Webster in collaboration with Cream Classical, will see dance anthems from over the years accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra.

The big numbers: Liverpool scored 89 percent for the affordability of its culture scene, making it the cheapest city on the list for art and culture.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Liverpool

8.  Tokyo

What makes us great: Much has been said about  Tokyo ’s efficiency. Its wide-reaching network of public transport is always punctual and the urban landscape is world-renowned for being unbelievably clean and well designed. But what makes Tokyo truly exciting is its dynamism. This is a city that never stays the same – there’s always something new and innovative to discover here. Some of the world’s greatest restaurants are now in Tokyo (Massimo Bottura’s Gucci Osteria , Antwerp’s Michelin-starred Le Pristine , and MAZ , sister to Peruvian 2023 World Best Restaurant Central – just to name a few) while cocktail bars are experimenting with local ingredients like miso. Plus, the city now has three gin distilleries focusing on Japanese spirits and botanicals, new shopping malls with rooftop gardens, architect-designed public toilets, a flurry of new openings from anime centres to art galleries… it’s difficult to keep up at times, but we don’t expect anything less from this vibrant city. 

Visit now because: The all-new teamLab Borderless digital art museum is opening in Azabudai Hills complex in central Tokyo on February 9. This is arguably the most anticipated new opening of 2024, as the museum promises a number of never-before-seen digital art installations making their world debut.

The big numbers: If our survey is anything to go by, Tokyoites are a merry bunch. 94 percent of locals said the city made them happy. With so much to do, see and (most importantly) eat, are we that surprised?

📍 Discover the best things to do in Tokyo

9.  Rome

What makes us great:   Regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Rome lures travellers with its ancient history, fabled cuisine and laid-back lifestyle. From the majestic Colosseum and intricately carved Trevi Fountain to the Spanish Steps and Pantheon, the city’s architectural splendours provide a theatrical backdrop for daily life. Locals still shop for fresh produce in cobblestone piazzas while nuns gather over coffee and schoolchildren visit iconic artworks in the city’s many museums. Spanning over 2,000 years of history, Rome is a city with layers: head underground to sites like the ancient Roman houses of Palazzo Valentini and the Basilica of San Clemente, and see the city from a bird’s-eye view atop the Castel Sant’Angelo fortress and the terrace of Gianicolo.

Visit now because: A city historically beloved for its guanciale (pork) and offal, Rome is finally welcoming more plant-based restaurants to cater to changing palates. Try Buddy for a decadent vegan brunch, Grezzo for dairy-free gelato and don’t miss Romeow Cat Bistro ’s new vegan pastry shop, Julietta . 

The big numbers: No surprises where the Italian capital scored highly. The city’s fabled food scene scored a 98 percent approval rating, with the same percentage of locals saying they found Rome beautiful.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Rome

10.  Porto

What makes us great: There’s good reason we chose Porto as this year’s best European city break . Portugal’s second city is a place where you eat well and drink better. In this wine capital, your glass will never be empty: check into a wine hotel like The Yeatman , The Lodge , or Wine & Books ; sip and snack at stylish wine bars like Genuíno , A Certain Café , or Tia Tia ; learn about all things vinho at the impressive World of Wine (WoW) , a kind of wine-themed Disneyland; and see where the magic happens on a tour of one of the cellars in Gaia (we recommend Sandeman , Cockburn's , and Cálem , to start). Visit now because: Time Out Market Porto opens in 2024 with the best of the city under the same roof. And what a roof – the market will be installed in a wing of the historic and beautiful São Bento Station , a property of public interest, which was designed by renowed architect Souto de Moura.

The big numbers: With those azulejo-tiled buildings and Duoro views, it’s no wonder 98 percent of locals would call their city beautiful. It’s also one of the highest scoring cities for romance, with 82 percent of locals saying it’s easy to find love in Porto.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Porto

11.  Paris

What makes us great: Without bragging (not really the French style), let's just say Paris pulls off a daily miracle. It's the most packed city in Europe, yet it somehow reconciles its unique historic vibe – you know, those stone buildings, iconic landmarks, and centuries-old boulevards – with a constant explosion of creativity in every direction. Fashion, music, food... you name it, this city of 110 nationalities keeps reinventing itself day in and day out, and all through the night. Where else but in Paris can you try a Japanese chef’s take on French cuisine ? Where else but in Paris can you attend a ballroom event in a nineteenth-century theatre ? Where else but in Paris can you visit a former grain exchange home to one of the largest private collections of contemporary art ? Nowhere, that’s where.

Visit now because: Between the Lunar New Year parades in the 13th arrondissement, Fashion Week shows at the coolest spots in town and (of course) this summer’s Olympic Games , the French capital is – as usual – the place to be this year.

The big numbers: Paris was the second-most mentioned city when survey respondents were asked where they’d most like to move if they could.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Paris

12.  Mumbai

What makes us great: Mumbai is India in a nutshell – from history to modernity, spirituality to sports, a colonial past to a dynamic present – all sprinkled with liberal doses of Bollywood magic and wrapped in the balmy breeze of the Arabian Sea. The city exhilirates with contrasts. Grab your hiking shoes to explore the 1500-year-old rock-cut Kanheri Caves and then don your evening best for a swish cocktail bar in Kamala Mills. Bargain at dawn at the Dadar Flower Market and then splurge at Kala Ghoda’s haute couture boutiques. Dare a rush-hour ride on the local trains and then find peace of mind in Gorai’s Vipassana Centre. Marvel at the enterprising spirit in Dharavi’s shanties and gawk at the towering Antilla, home to India’s wealthiest man.

Visit now because: Two new stars shine brightly on Mumbai’s cultural canvas: the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre is a world-class arts space hosting theatre, musicals, concerts and exhibits; and then there’s the Museum of Solutions , an innovative and experiential children’s museum that’s bound to pique young minds. 

The big numbers: Only two cities got a 100 percent approval rating for their food scene, and Mumbai was one of them.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Mumbai

13.  Lisbon

What makes us great: The light of Lisbon , the hilltop viewpoints overlooking the Tagus River, the terraces to enjoy the sunset, the beaches just half an hour away… there are endless reasons the Portuguese capital is so compelling. And in 2024, there’s another thing that makes us great: the city’s increasingly lively music festivals. Lisbon is in for a belter of a summer, with names like Doja Cat, Camila Cabello, Calum Scott, and Ed Sheeran at Rock in Rio Lisboa in June; Dua Lipa, Pearl Jam, Benjamin Clementine, and Smashing Pumpkins at NOS Alive in July; Måneskin at Super Bock Super Rock in July and LCD Soundsystem, Sam Smith, Massive Attack, and The Kills at MEO Kalorama in August. 

Visit now because: Two major museums are reopening in 2024: the Gulbenkian Modern Art Centre (aka the CAM ), home to the most renowned collection of modern and contemporary art in Portugal, and the MUDE (Lisbon’s Design and Fashion Museum).

The big numbers: Ninety-six percent of locals think Lisbon is beautiful. Those Tagus river views? Those pastel-painted buildings? All that golden light? Yep, we’d have to agree. 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Lisbon

14.  Chicago

What makes us great: Whether you want to spend a night listening to blues until 4am or a day marvelling at awe-inspiring architecture, Chicago has you covered. The unofficial capital of the Midwest offers all the expected amenities of a world-class city – a vibrant nightlife and heaps of culture, to start – plus a whole lot more. No matter the season, Chicago is full of exciting things to do, from a festive holiday marketplace in the wintertime to lively street fests every weekend during the summer. And the food and drink scene is second to none, boasting Michelin-starred dining destinations alongside iconic institutions renowned for Chicago-style specialties, such as the legendary deep dish pizza and the irresistible Italian beef sandwich.

Visit now because: There’s never been a better time for fine dining. Smyth has just earned three Michelin stars – only the second Chicago restaurant to be honored with the distinction – while newcomers like Indienne and Maman Zari are serving up boundary-pushing Indian and Persian cuisines, respectively.

The big numbers: You can’t fault the Windy City for entertainment: locals rated the city’s nightlife and culture offering highly at 83 percent respectively.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Chicago

15.  Manchester

What makes us great: Few cities have achieved more than Manchester. Countless incredible bands, two globe-conquering football teams, and one world boxing champ, thanks to local lad Tyson. But Manchester doesn’t stand still. Since Ancoats’ Mana bagged a Michelin star in 2019, the food scene has soared, leading to astonishingly inventive meals at the likes of Erst , 10 Tib Lane and MUSU . The underground clubbing scene is unrivalled, thanks to the progressive (and semi-lawless) feel of Hidden , The Loft and The White Hotel . Meanwhile, The Peer Hat , Eagle Inn and Aatma prove that alternative music isn’t dead, just more experimental than ever. Most excitingly, the live comedy circuit harks back to the golden age of Caroline Aherne and Steve Coogan, full of uncompromising northern voices, and refreshingly light on nepo babies. Our hot tips: scathing working-class wit Rachel Fairburn , twisted club comic Chris Cantrill and menacing-hearthrob-slash-viral-video-sensation Tom Lawrinson , to name but three. 

Visit now because: It's no coincidence that Chanel held its 2023 fashion show here , mere weeks after the UK’s landmark arts hub Factory International opened its doors. The balance of cultural power has finally shifted up North, making Manchester one of the most vibrant and fast-growing cities in Europe right now. And the rain isn't that bad. Honest.

The big numbers: Clubbing and comedy seem to be the key ingredients for a happy life – 96 percent of Mancunians said that their city makes them happy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Manchester

16.  São Paulo

What makes us great: Unjustly overlooked as a layover destination for too long, São Paulo is now firmly established as a must-visit spot in a country with no shortage of attractions. The largest city in the Southern Hemisphere is a global destination for foodies, rivaling Lima and Mexico City for the mantle of Latin America's culinary capital. Generations of immigration from Europe , Asia , South America and, more recently, Africa have made São Paulo's restaurant scene as diverse and vibrant as the species in the Amazon rainforest. Come for the food, stay for the nightlife, stunning cityscapes, jaw-dropping Carnival and the world's largest Pride parade.

Visit now because: São Paulo's thriving restaurant scene gets more exciting every day. Check out some of the city's new openings, like the Thai fine dining at  Ping Yang , Japanese-Korean fusion at  KuroMoon , or  Shoshana Delishop for refined Jewish diaspora fare. 

The big numbers: São Paulo was among the cities with the highest score for romance, with 88 percent of locals saying it’s easy to find love in the city. What’s more, 100 percent of Paulistanos surveyed said the city made them happy. 

📍 Discover the best things to do in São Paulo

17.  Los Angeles

What makes us great: No city is all sunshine and rainbows, but LA actually comes close – at least in a literal, meteorological sense. After years of drought, welcome wet weather has reinvigorated already-stunning natural retreats across the city with seasonal snowy mountaintops and colorful carpets of flowers. But LA’s appeal isn’t limited to the outdoors: cinephiles can again flock to the century-old Egyptian and Vista Theatres, revived by Netflix and Quentin Tarantino respectively, while the intimately-mid-sized concert venue the Bellwether and multi-themed club Level 8 have reawakened Downtown LA’s after-dark offerings. As for navigating between it all, a trio of new line-linking subway stops have made the city’s Metro remarkably more useful. And, of course, LA’s dining scene continues to impress with wow-worthy pasta at Funke , standout omakase at Sushi Sonagi and Japanese-Mexican mariscos at Loreto .  

Visit now because: Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy has resurrected a 1980s art carnival with works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring and Salvador Dalí inside a soundstage next to the LA River. Though you sadly can’t go on the rides, the atmosphere is still magical.

The big numbers: Angelenos are rightly proud of the city’s food scene, giving it a healthy 89 percent approval rating in our survey. 

📍 Discover the best things to do in LA

18.  Amsterdam

What makes us great: Amsterdam is a city that constantly confounds. On one hand, it’s a classic, old European city, a beautiful and prestigious metropolis overflowing with fine dining, high art, and the type of architecture to melt the coldest heart. Yet on the other? Amsterdam is rugged and counter-cultural, a city of coffeeshops , alternative art, and bleeding-edge clubs. What separates Amsterdam from the rest is how these two sides aren’t contradictory. In fact, they complement each other, forming a collective whole unlike anywhere else in the world. That’s the true spirit of Amsterdam: it’s a city that enables you to be yourself, to do what you want and be who you want to be, all without an ounce of judgement.

Visit now because: You need to experience Koningsdag (King’s Day). While Pride and ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) have similar vibes, neither feel quite as Dutch as Koningsdag. Here, on April 27th, Amsterdam turns orange, as people flood onto the streets and throw what must be close to Europe’s biggest street party. It’s chaotic, busy, but totally unforgettable.

The big numbers: With all its quaint streets and pretty canals, it’s no surprise Amsterdam is one of the most romantic cities on the list – a whopping 88 percent of locals said finding love is easy in the city.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Amsterdam

19.  Lagos

What makes us great: Whether you’re a staunch mainlander or from Lekki, there’s something for everyone in Lagos, Africa’s most populous city. Posh Victoria Island continues to deliver a trifecta of swanky resorts, food haunts, and nightlife. Lekki is for the brunchers – make Maple Lagos your first stop. On the mainland, Kuti’s Bistro in Ikeja, owned by the legendary afrobeat family, serves up reliably delicious food and hosts parties, karaoke and games nights. And then there are the beaches – hit up Oniru Beach for some fun in the sun, but be sure to bring naira for this private beach. For those who live for the night, Hard Rock Cafe Lagos provides a massive indoor-outdoor playground with top artists including DJ Obi (‘Obi’s House’ on Mondays), who set a Guinness World Record in 2016 for a 240-hour marathon set. 

Visit now because: Both the city and its suburbs are expanding – just check out live-work-play concept Eko Atlantic City . Just out of town, Epe, on the north side of Lekki Lagoon, is experiencing a boom. The town is home to the legendary Oluwo Fish Market, the biggest in Lagos state, where almost all traders are women. Fittingly, there’s a giant two-fish statue in the centre of town. 

The big numbers: When it comes to standard of living, Lagos has a lot going for it – 96 percent of locals are happy, 98 percent would call Lagos beautiful and the city got a 92 percent friendliness rating, too.

20.  Melbourne

What makes us great: Right, where do we begin? Not only is Melbourne home to the sixth coolest neighbourhood in the entire world (shout out to Northside ‘burb Brunswick East), but this bustling metropolis of ours was also named the world’s tenth best city for culture right now . And don’t even get us started on the recent avalanche of new restaurant openings: from a French fine diner housed in the city’s cavernous old Stock Exchange building to an authentic Mexican joint slinging the best tacos in town, there’s no doubting which Aussie state wears the culinary crown (we see you coming for it, Sydney!). Add all of this to an impressive programme of major events – Australian Open , F1 Australian Grand Prix , Melbourne International Comedy Festival , to name just a few – and yeah, we’d say Melbourne’s is pretty darn great right now.

Visit now because: Melbourne is currently a haven for audiophiles thanks to a bevy of insanely cool, late-night listening lounges that have popped up across the city. Hit up hot spots like Wax Music Lounge , High Note and Music Room for live bands, jazz nights and DJs spinning vinyl tunes. 

The big numbers: A very impressive 97 percent of Melburnians would describe Melbourne as beautiful, while the city’s eating and drinking scene got a tasty 87 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Melbourne

21.  Naples

What makes us great: Nestled between Mount Vesuvius and the sea, Naples is Italy 's cultural soul. Beautiful and bustling, Naples will have you falling in love at first visit with its old-school charm, Unesco World Heritage Sites, vibrant street life, warm Neapolitan hospitality, a lot of sunshine and delectable food. It is the birthplace of pizza , after all. Get lost underneath the dangling clothes of the Quartieri Spagnoli, sip on a smooth shot of espresso from Bar Mexico , take a dip in the sea in the coastal neighborhood of Posillipo, and munch on a traditional sandwich of cicoli and ricotta from Antica Salumeria Malinconico for a wholesome Neapolitan experience.

Visit now because: Stroll through the reawakened Galleria Principe di Napoli, where young Neapolitan entrepreneurs are repurposing abandoned spaces like cocktail bar and bistro ScottoJonno and jewelry artisan AG Albachiara Gatto , to name a few. 

The big numbers: Not only is the food in Naples excellent, but it’s pleasantly cheap too, with locals scoring their city’s dining scene 96 percent for quality and affordability. It’s also the friendliest city on the list, with 98 percent of locals saying its’s easy to make friends. 

📍 Discover the best things to do in Naples

22.  Singapore

What makes us great: Though small, Singapore is teeming with incredible things to do – from arts venues and themed nightlife spots like Ark11 to adrenaline-inducing attractions like HyperDrive . We’re home to some of the best restaurants in the world , but also plenty of humble hawker stalls serving traditional fare. And all of this is highly accessible via an uber-efficient public transport system, plus it’s clean, and super safe for solo travel . For a respite away from city bustle, head to Sentosa’s beach clubs like the new Tipsy Unicorn , soak up the sun at the Southern Islands, or venture to the outskirts for farms like Bollywood Veggies .

Visit now because: New events, pop-up festivals, and food and drink outlets are springing up pretty much every single week. The thrifting scene in Singapore has had a huge revival recently, so there are plenty of cool spots like NearesTTen and The Née Vintage Store to snag rare vintage togs. Lots of new cycling and trekking routes have opened up as well; check out the Rail Corridor , which recently got an extension with over 21 kilometres of trails.

The big numbers: Singapore knows how to eat out and stay out. The city’s food and nightlife scenes had approval ratings of 91 percent and 80 percent respectively.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Singapore

23.  Miami

What makes us great: We could list off our 35-mile stretch of beachfront, year round balminess and 24/7 nightlife, but that’s stating the obvious. Over the past few decades, Miami has evolved from a resort town to a full-fledged metropolis, offering all the things other global powerhouse cities do – fantastic restaurants and bars, sporting arenas and events, an enviable arts and culture scene – only our high rises come with an ocean view and whatever’s offered in English is offered in Spanish, too. As a city we are unapologetically and authentically ourselves – whether you like it or not. And damn, do we know how to have a good time. 

Visit now because: Between globally recognized chefs like Massimo Bottura opening restaurants here ( Torno Subito is coming to Miami this year) and secondary outposts for Latin American restaurant groups, you can get a taste of the entire world in one place. Local chefs are leveling up, too. Check out our latest food hall opening, Julia & Henry’s , for a sample. 

The big numbers: Miami’s legendary party scene got a big thumbs up from locals – the city had the second-highest score for nightlife, with a 94 percent approval rating.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Miami

24.  Bangkok

What makes us great: Food is both an indulgence and a source of pride for Thais, and eating in Bangkok is practically a sport. From street-side stalls and food carts on bustling streets to fancy restaurants in sleek skyscrapers, the options are endless – and many are wallet-friendly and available around the clock. Visiting more than one restaurant a night is a regular occurrence for locals, who fill up before heading out for a night at one of the trendy bars that define the local cocktail scene. That’s not all – alongside a thriving food and drink scene, Bangkok is seeing an emerging pop art culture promoted in a spate of hip galleries across town.

Visit now because: The citywide art fest Bangkok Design Week is coming up this month. Hop aboard the city’s new train lines and discover the work of local talents – and in between gallery and event visits, drop by one of the city’s best dining spots, which includes 35 restaurants with Michelin stars and 9 venues on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants lists (not to mention night markets and food streets). 

The big numbers: Thailand ’s not shaking that ‘Land of Smiles’ nickname: 98 percent of Bangkok locals said their city makes them happy – and the same percentage said it was beautiful, too.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Bangkok

25.  Lima

What makes us great: In a montage of ancient temples, modern high-rises, arresting museums and many of South America ’s finest restaurants, Lima spreads along the clifftops of Peru ’s glittering Pacific coast as one of Latin America’s most alluring destinations. This capital is ostensibly chaotic, and underappreciated because of it, but beneath the surface Lima is a creative and sophisticated city. It’s the cooking pot for many of the continent’s most exciting culinary innovations and the address of some of its suavest city neighborhoods. In Lima’s centre, you could spend days roaming around troves of colonial architecture and museums showcasing Peru’s huge breadth of indigenous cultures, or hit the coast for phenomenal surfing – in the country which has a strong claim to have been the birthplace of the sport.   

Visit now because: You’ll get to experience one of the world’s most exciting food destinations right now. Lima’s Central was crowned number one in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2023 , which has added extra buzz to the eating scene – and there are a clutch of other city restaurants in close pursuit. 2024 will also see Lima host the World Athletics U20 Championship in August.

The big numbers: Surprise, surprise – the city home to the world’s best restaurant scored full marks for its food scene, with 100 percent of locals rating it highly. 

📍Discover the best things to do in Peru

26.  Budapest

What makes us great: Europe’s most beautiful capital lounges either side of the Danube, connected by elegant bridges and superb public transport. Budapest  is more than just two cities in one, having recently celebrated the 150th anniversary of the union of Buda and Pest. It’s a green city, lined with bike lanes every which way. It’s generally a safe place to party , for women, too. And it’s the same gorgeous metropolis the City fathers created from the 1870s onwards, all grand façades and remarkable detail.  Its spas are another unique attraction – don’t miss the panoramic jacuzzi at the Rudas – along with floating nightspots, most notably the A38 live venue and DJ space. Michelin-starred restaurants cluster in the business quarter, the informal Borkonyha, the perfect introduction to Hungarian wines and gastronomy. Many seek out the homely comfort of classic Magyar dishes, best sampled at the cosy Lánchíd Söröző , where queues snake out the door in winter holiday season towards the Chain Bridge it is named after.

Visit now because : The big hitters in the Liget Project , the transformation of City Park to a contemporary cultural hub, are always showcasing something new. Exhibitions and live shows feature at the House of Hungarian Music , while a new National Gallery will be taking shape on the site of a former concert venue.

The big numbers: No-one can deny Budapest’s good looks – when asked if their city is beautiful, 94 percent of locals said yes.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Budapest

27.  Beijing

What makes us great: Beijing  is a delightful blend of ancient charm and modern drive that stands out as the ever-beating heart of China . Its streets have stood since the times of emperors and ceremonies, with sites like the Forbidden City and Summer Palace offering glimpses into the past. Meanwhile, its unique neighbourhoods are great for anyone who wants to experience the friendly hum of local life. The 798 art district buzzes with creativity, the varied food scene ranges from humble street food like Chinese pancakes to vegan food and Peking duck feasts, and the Hutong alleyways showcase the city's soul. 

Visit now because: Beijing's coffee culture is growing, with cafés across the city offering their spin on serving coffee with a Chinese touch. The dining scene in the CBD is vibrant, and a new shopping haven, Scitech More Shopping Mall , has recently opened.

The big numbers: Beijing scored highly across the board, but stands out for its dining scene, which got a very impressive 98 percent approval rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Beijing

28.  Dubai

What makes us great: Dubai has sealed its position as the city everyone wants to live in (like we didn’t know). The city is the first choice for wannabe expats and is ranked as one of the most affordable tax-free destinations in the world , so if you fancy upping sticks this year, look no further. There are pool parties, brunches and beach clubs; shows, festivals and gigs; a phenomenal home-grown dining scene (perfectly paired with stunning outposts of the world’s best restaurant brands), a city-wide fitness campaign and an incredible, all-encompassing approach to kids. Entrepreneurs thrive, families flourish and nationalities blend to create a culture of togetherness. It’s hands down the cleanest, friendliest, most welcoming city you could wish to visit. Oh, and did we mention the weather?

Visit now because: You’ll be in good company: Ed Sheeran is on his way, as are American band One Republic . There are nine lush new hotels to stay in too, with the epic One&Only One Za’abeel home to the UAE’s longest suspended infinity pool and next door to the Middle East’s first eatery from the world’s most decorated female chef, Anne-Sophie Pic.

The big numbers: Superior quality is the name of the game in Dubai, so it’s no surprise the city’s food and nightlife scenes ranked highly, with an approval rating of 98 and 96 percent respectively (making Dubai the best city on the list for nightlife).

📍 Discover the best things to do in Dubai

29.  Montreal

What makes us great: Combine one of the biggest cultural hubs in the world with old school European architecture and cutting-edge design and you’ve got Montreal . Add a smattering of some of the finest food in the country , a cutting-edge cocktail scene, free family activities and some of the coolest festivals (including Montreal en Lumiere, one of the largest outdoor winter events in Canada), and it’s easy to see why everyone falls in love with it – ubiquitous orange cones, endless construction and language laws included. Come for the friendly, open atmosphere, and stay for the winter party. With an illuminated giant ferris wheel, evening disco skating nights and free museum visits, you can’t go wrong.

Visit now because: When the temperature drops, the city’s nightlife scene heats up. We’re talking about new free interactive light installations all over downtown, and Igloofest , where you can dance under the stars all night.

The big numbers: It might be below freezing this time of year, but Montrealers don’t let the cold bring them down – 94 percent of locals we surveyed said they are happy.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Montreal

30.  Glasgow

What makes us great: Plenty of cities boast world-class food, beautiful scenery and popping nightlife. Only one is full of Glaswegians. Glasgow ’s identity and sense of community are infused into its soul, and spare no newcomer. Expect to be welcomed with open (albeit playfully mocking) arms as you explore a world of unique museums, indie bookshops, and £1 shots. You heard that right: your wallet will escape Glasgow unscathed, with restaurants like Sugo and Topolobamba offering cheap but delicious grub, and in a place that was recently named the best UK city break for architecture , simply walking around becomes an event in itself. Plus, culture is taken seriously. It’s no surprise Glasgow has produced most of Scotland’s best bands and actors, considering the city’s thriving live music scene and the enduring appeal of the near century-old Glasgow Film Theatre . Whoever you are, Glasgow awaits with great patter and a cool pint of Tennent’s.

Visit now because: Independent shops selling locally handmade gifts and produce are popping up around the entire city, so there’s always something new to treat yourself to. And of course, the eclectic Barrowlands Market , having recently celebrated its 100th anniversary, remains a perfect distillation of the city’s good-hearted chaos.

The big numbers: Good food, happy people – Glasgow’s got it nailed, with a 92 percent food quality score and happiness rating.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Glasgow

31.  Sydney

What makes us great: It’s impossible not to start with the harbour, widely recognised as one of the most spectacular in the world. But there’s more to this ocean inlet than the section near our famous white-sailed Opera House and the Harbour Bridge – the waterway weaves around the whole city, carving out breathtaking nooks bordered by walking tracks, public gardens, restaurants and bars. And then, of course, there are our pristine beaches. It’s no wonder everyone fixates on Sydney ’s stunning coast and nature, but our food scene is also world-class, with a curated pick’n’mix of the best food from every corner of the world. 

Visit now because: Sydney’s absolutely buzzing right now, with loads of exciting new restaurant and bar openings. There’s huge post-pandemic investment in nightlife, music, the arts, events and a speedy metro rail, so the streets are more alive than ever. And this year, the huge international festival SXSW will be held in Sydney.

The big numbers: Surrounded by nature, fringed by beaches and boasting one of the world’s most iconic harbours, Sydney is undeniably gorgeous – and 97 percent of locals agree.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Sydney

32.  Buenos Aires

What makes us great:  After Michelin’s first guide to the Argentine capital was published in November, it’s safe to say Buenos Aires is one of South America’s leading food and drink cities. Some 52 restaurants were recommended, a healthy debut that included six Bib Gourmand awards, two one-stars in Trescha and Don Julio and a lone two-star in Aramburu – all confirming the city’s position as a dining hotspot.  Meanwhile, bartenders are continuing to shake up the cocktail scene after Tres Monos took home the prestigious Art of Hospitality prize from last year’s World’s 50 Best Bars awards; two other watering holes, Cochinchina and Florería Atlántico , also rank in the top 50. A host of tipple taverns have opened in the past year, including Kona, Mixtape Listening Bar , Sofa , Punto Mona and Dimi . The latter three bars can all be found in the Chacarita neighbourhood, a stone’s throw from well-known Palermo, and the barrio is going from strength to strength. Dining hotspots include Na Num , Picaron and Ajo Negro that bear Michelin mentions, while other openings include Acido and Guchito Taller de Sanguches sandwich bar. 

Visit now because: Big-name Latin indie bands such as Conociendo Rusia, Bandalos Chinos and El mató a un Policía Motorizado frequently rock up at intimate venues across the city such as Konex , C Complejo Art Media and Luna Park ; there are also cool home-grown festivals such as Buena Vibra . In November, Creamfields makes a welcome return to the EDM circuit after a nine-year hiatus. 

The big numbers: Excellent dining is one thing Buenos Aires can claim, but the city’s culture scene got high praise in our survey, too, with a 79 percent approval rating for its quality and a 60 percent affordability score.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Buenos Aires

33.  Kuala Lumpur

What makes us great: A meeting of the old and the ultra-modern, Kuala Lumpur ’s centuries-old heritage sites — including mosques, Taoist temples and stunning Hindu shrines — sit in the shadow of sky-high supertowers and sprawling shopping malls. The food scene is a melting pot of some of the world’s best street eats, whether you go the way of kopitiams (a type of dependable local café), hawker stalls or neon-lit night markets. Let’s not forget the rest: charming coffee-slinging cafés, hot-ticket chef’s openings spotlighting local produce, Michelin-starred restaurants, and everything in between. Explore the city’s many arts and culture hubs, like APW, REXKL and The Zhongshan Building , which house cafés, bars and specialty shops. These multi-purpose venues are where the creative class and the city’s cool kids work hard and play harder, with weekend events with no shortage of things to do.

Visit now because: This is a city celebrated, above all, for its cuisine. At two-Michelin starred Dewakan , Darren Teoh is redefining modern Malaysian cuisine through indigenous ingredients harvested from one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Stay out for a drink or two at one of KL’s many craft cocktail bars ( Bar Trigona , Coley , the list goes on) or dance the night away at drum‘n’bass haunts, rooftop parties, and the like. 

The nig numbers: The city’s top qualities, according to our survey, are its friendliness (with 90 percent of locals saying it’s easy to make friends) and its food (which scored a healthy 94 percent approval rating).

📍 Discover the best things to do in Kuala Lumpur

34.  Manila

What makes us great: A city that used to be regarded as a necessary stopover before jumping off to one of the Philippines ’ famed white sand beaches, Manila ’s current renaissance proves it deserves to be a destination in its own right. Although the notorious snarling traffic remains omnipresent, it can be credited for the organic growth of micro-communities, like Poblacion and Legaspi and Salcedo Villages. It’s easy to spend the day exploring one of these walkable neighbourhoods: enjoy a cold brew from a third wave coffee joint like Yardstick and Assembly Hall ; explore an artisanal jeweler’s studio such as Erica Concepcion and Joyce Makitalo ; discover homegrown designers and craftsmen like Rajo Laurel , Puey Quiñones , Jo Ann BItagcol and Sapatero ; and then grab a bite in one of the many chef-driven bistros like Tandem , Sampiro , Lampara , and Metronome . For a night cap, head to a cocktail bar or speakeasy; La Vie en Rose , Bar Good Times , ITO Space and The Curator are some favourites.

Visit now because: Manila’s contemporary art scene is flourishing, with festivals like Art Fair Philippines and Art in the Park forging the way. On the classical front, a handful of heritage buildings and museums have been refurbished and reopened to the public recently thanks to an administrative push that celebrates local history and culture.

The big numbers: With a 90 percent score for quality and an 88 percent score for affordability, Manila’s food scene got a big round of applause from locals this year.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Manila

35.  Seoul

What makes us great: There’s something for every type of traveller in Seoul . Looking to party all night? The neighbourhoods of Hongdae, Itaewon and Gangnam are calling your name. Food your driving force? Seoul has street food, polished plates and everything in between. There are international art shows, like Frieze Seoul , for the culture-seekers and tours to the border between North and South Korea for the history buffs. Nature lovers can take their time to explore the famed Bukhansan Mountain, and if you’re a coffee addict, Seoul’s cafe culture (there are 18,000 joints and counting!) is not to be missed. One thing’s for sure: no two days will ever be the same here.

Visit now because: With K-anything all the hype these days, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to know that the government has announced a whopping 1.3 trillion South Korean won into the ‘2023-2024 Visit Korea Year campaign’, which means there will be a load of events happening all throughout the year. Particularly exciting events include the Korea Beauty Festival in June and a large K-culture festival in September. 

The big numbers: Four percent of Time Out editors worldwide voted for Seoul as one the coolest cities in the world right now.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Seoul

36.  Hanoi

What makes us great: Ancient, bustling and endlessly beguiling, Vietnam ’s capital is not short on options for a good day out. Stroll through the maze of narrow streets in the Old Quarter, revealing a piece of history on every corner, from French colonial architecture to ancient temples. Join locals sipping Vietnamese coffee by the tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, and then wander down alleys looking for street food – don't miss Bun Cha Huong Lien ’s famed bun cha, a noodle dish served with grilled pork and a savoury, sweet, and tangy broth. Get to know Hanoi ’s cultural side with a visit to the Temple of Literature, honouring knowledge and scholarship, or explore the innovative art scene at the Manzi Art Space . 

Visit now because: An influx of new openings are redefining the dining scene in this legendary food city. Get stuck into some ribs at smokehouse Barbaros , try contemporary Korean cuisine at JUMARC , or relish elevated northern Vietnamese flavours at The East . Round out the night with stunning cocktails and panoramic views at the boat-inspired Lighthouse Sky Bar . 

The big numbers: Hanoi got a seriously impressive overall liveability score in our survey, with 100 percent of locals saying they’re happy and that they think the city is beautiful, 94 percent saying it’s easy to make friends and 88 percent saying it’s easy to find love.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Hanoi

37.  San Francisco

What makes us great: Don’t believe the ‘doom loop’ narrative about San Francisco – the city is buzzing once again and remains one of the greatest travel destinations on the planet. Sure, the office-heavy financial district is still quieter than in 2019, but the rest of the city is alive with a palpable energy that harks back to the pre-2020 glory days. For visitors, San Francisco offers all the makings of a perfect vacation: an unbeatable food scene, great weather year-round, abundant natural beauty, beautiful neighborhoods to stroll, trendy hotels and, of course, world-class wine – be it sipped in a cosy neighbourhood restaurant or on a sprawling vineyard under an hour away in Wine Country. 

Visit now because: San Francisco’s bar scene is having a moment. There’s been an onslaught of lively new openings recently, from sky-high rooftop bars like Cavana and underground speakeasies like the Felix to natural wine bar GluGlu . Sober folks will appreciate another trend in SF: a great selection on non-alcoholic drinks on every menu.

The big numbers: Locals in San Francisco remain optimistic, with a huge 98 percent of San Franciscans saying that the city makes them happy.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in San Francisco

38.  Barcelona

What makes us great: Of course, Barcelona ’s many magnificent attractions make it a magnet for tourism – and while certain areas should be avoided because of tourist saturation, there are plenty of others where you can experience the real heart of the city. For every iconic and overcrowded site like the Sagrada Familia, there's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – ever heard of Gaudí’s Torre Bellesguard ? Barcelona’s bars ( SIPS ) and restaurants ( Disfrutar , Àbac ) consistently top lists of the world's best places to eat and drink. There are always exciting dining novelties popping up – take Xeixa , located in the former brothel where Picasso met the ladies of Avignon. Year after year, Barcelona's street culture draws crowds to popular festivals like Llum BCN , and commemorations provide the perfect excuse to celebrate the city's great artists. 2024 marks the Year Tàpies , where the city will be celebrating 100 years since the birth of the Barcelona-born painter and sculptor.

Visit it now because: This is shaping up to be an exciting year for Barcelona, especially along its waterfront. Beyond the thrill of the America's Cup happening between August and October, the highlight of the summer will be the grand opening of Time Out Market Barcelona , right by the sea on the Maremagnum terrace. 

The big numbers: Barcelona’s a beauty, that’s for sure – and so say 95 percent of locals who live there.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Barcelona

39.  Abu Dhabi

What makes us great: Many visit Abu Dhabi to see iconic buildings like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi , only to be pleasantly surprised by UAE capital’s nature and culture. On one end of the emirate,  adjacent to Eastern Mangrove National Park, skyscrapers kiss the horizon, while the other end sees 4X4s smashing over sand dunes. Abu Dhabi loves to welcome visitors – 90 percent of locals rated the city for friendliness – and over 200 nationalities call the emirate home. Enjoy the best entertainment at Etihad Arena, a stellar line-up of award-winning restaurants as seen in the Time Out Abu Dhabi Restaurant Awards , a jam-packed calendar of international sporting events including the F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and UFC, cultural heritage festivals like Sheikh Zayed Festival and events that break Guinness World Records not once, but four times in one single evening. 

Visit now because:  It’s a great time to get stuck into beachside eats at the vibrant Mamsha Al Saadiyat, from acclaimed Japanese hotspot Niri to the booming UAE-born burger brand Pickl . Meanwhile Saadiyat Island is currently hosting the star-studded Saadiyat Nights , where you can catch performances from Mariah Carey, Sting and more. 

The big numbers: Eating out in Abu Dhabi won’t break the bank, according to locals. The city’s food scene got an 84 percent approval rating both for its quality and affordability.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Abu Dhabi

40.  New Orleans

What makes us great: New Orleans is rightly a bucket-list destination for its big-ticket annual events like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest, but the party never stops in this celebratory city. Every season brings a new set of festivals , while the city's iconic dining scene can, of course, be enjoyed any time of year. There’s everything from century-old institutions and James Beard award-winners to celebrated dives and top-tier bars (the cocktail was invented here, after all). The city itself is a museum, with historic buildings and unique architecture – and not just in the French Quarter. As the birthplace of jazz , music is a part of everyday life, and the live music calendar is always packed. And after all the celebrations? The city’s many beautiful parks offer a serene escape.

Visit now because: This year, the legendary Jazz Fest expands to eight days to include the Rolling Stones, and Essence Fest celebrates its 30th anniversary. New Orleans will also be home to a major event on the culinary calendar, as the city hosts the Bocuse d’Or and Pastry World Cup in June – the first time the competition has been held in the US.

The big numbers: New Orleans is the friendliest US city on the list, with a near-perfect 94 percent of locals saying it was easy to make friends in the Big Easy.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in New Orleans

41.  Philadelphia

What makes us great: Exploring Philly is a bit like sifting through a cultural archaeological dig. The new layers don’t so much sit on top of the existing as they are marbled into the grain. When they mix, you get magical restaurants like Friday Saturday Sunday , a Rittenhouse neighbourhood staple and the 2023 James Beard winner for Most Outstanding Restaurant, which has existed under the same name and address since the ’70s but was taken over in 2015 and transformed into the must-visit dining spot it is today. You get the transcendent spaces of the Bok Building , cradled in the bones of an FDR-era trade school that by day is an enclave for artists and creatives, and by night, is home to a world-class rooftop bar and one of Philly’s best restaurants in Irwin’s. You get one of the smartest examples of urban redevelopment in the Navy Yard, a riverfront community in the shadow of rusting warships with dozens of acres of public park space and walking trails. You get a city that’s peaking at a moment in time when what it's becoming and what it once was are still intertwined. 

Visit now because:  Philly’s sprawling Lincoln Financial Field will be home to WWE’s week-long WrestleMania extravaganza this spring.  Ready to rumble?

The big numbers: Ninety-two percent of locals said their city makes them happy. Maybe it is always sunny in Philadelphia.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Philadelphia

42.  Austin

What makes us great: There are a million reasons everyone’s moving to Austin , but there’s one reason they stay: nature. From Ladybird Lake , where you’ll often see a corral of tech bros on paddle boards, to the various crystal-clear creeks hiding outside city limits, nature is a cornerstone of Austin’s culture. When temps climb over 100 degrees (which is often), a dip into the lush blue oasis of Barton Springs Pool , minutes from downtown, refreshes both body and soul. Beyond Barton, Austin's surrounding creeks and swimming holes will make any visitor rethink the notion that Texas is only a barren desert. Stroll down any of the several greenbelts encircling the city and you, too, will ask yourself, ‘Should I move here?’

Visit now because: The CMT Awards are returning to Austin for a second year on April 7, bringing country music's biggest stars to the Lone Star state. Or you could see for yourself why Austin is renowned for its festivals at SXSW and Austin City  – and the United States Grand Prix rounds out the rest of 2024, so there’s plenty to keep you busy. 

The big numbers: Ninety-four percent of Austinites would vouch for Austin’s beauty, while 82 percent said it’s easy to find love in the city. There’s clearly a connection there…  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Austin

43.  Boston

What makes us great: If you’re looking for charming neighborhoods, iconic landmarks and sometimes overbearing accents, you’ve come to the right place. Between strolling the historic Freedom Trail, exploring the Museum of Fine Arts and eating your way through the North End, the list of things to do in Boston is endless. Despite the citywide 2am closing time, nightlife here is as vibrant as ever, from the chic bars in Back Bay to the more eclectic scene in Cambridge. Boston in 2024 remains a hub of innovation and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a city that can do both this year.

Visit now because: The Back Bay just became home to the first Raffles in North America – a pretty knock-out pad to base yourself at while you get stuck into Boston’s better-than-ever restaurant scene.

The big numbers: Locals gave major props to Boston’s art and culture scene, which got a respectable 75 percent approval rating.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Boston

44.  Accra

What makes us great: With over 4 million people , Accra is nothing if not lively. New bars, restaurants and galleries continue to spring up and find their place in the rhythm of bustling markets, honking motorists and raving nightlife. Largely thanks to its day parties and DJ sets, Accra is increasingly becoming a favourite holiday destination – especially during the festive months. It’s also a hub for learning and creativity, with Africa’s biggest photography and archive library, Dikan Center , recently opening in the city. The rise of galleries, studios and curated art exhibitions happening across Accra have transformed parts of the city into vibrant hubs for creative gatherings, nurturing a grassroots artistic community and cementing Accra as Africa's new favourite art destination.

Visit now because: Accra is positively humming with exciting new ventures across music, nightlife and the arts. Creative dining space Palm Moments hosts Accra’s hottest nightlife trend, Fake Fridays , every last Thursday of the month, while Accra’s Imullar Sound System is a daytime event featuring killer live DJ sets. In the art world, Thursday Lates is a monthly series of free art exhibitions, showcasing the latest from the city’s emerging creatives. 

The big numbers: Accra scored a stunning 100 percent happiness score, with the same percentage of locals saying the seaside city was beautiful to look at.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Accra

45.  Marseille

What makes us great:  Distinct from any city in France – or the world for that matter – Marseille is an intriguing mix of big-city swagger and southern coastal charm. It has all the cool street art and sleek architecture you’d want from a city break, while also offering the chance to sail the Mediterranean and hike the limestone cliffs of Calanques National Park . A port city that’s been around for over 2,600 years, Marseille is home to a myriad of cultures, reflected in the Armenian delis, Algerian rappers and Tunisian restaurants. The dynamic culinary scene embodies the city’s appealing mix of old and new, from iconic 1943 pizzeria Chez Etienne to meat-centric hotspot Bouillon . Food has also fed the many social impact projects, like Après M , a former McDonald’s that’s now a food bank, community hub and job training centre.

Visit now because: Chosen over other French coastal cities, Marseille will host sailing events for the Paris 2024 Olympics between July 28 – August 9. Summer kicks off with the multi-cultural Festival de Marseille (June 14 – July 6) and wraps up with the Kouss Kouss Festival (last week of August), where over 100 restaurants get creative with the classic Maghreb dish. 

The big numbers: With 92 percent of locals saying it’s easy to make friends in Marseille, the coastal city is up there as one of Europe’s friendliest.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Marseille

46.  Taipei

What makes us great: The fact that Taiwan is the first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage speaks volumes about its progressive stance, and Taipei is the liberal heart of the island. Modern skyscrapers and the Miramar Ferris Wheel might dominate the skyline, but in their shadows you’ll find colourful temples and Hokkien-style old houses. Visitors can enjoy savoury local treats and cuisines from around the world, a fantastic nightlife scene and abundant natural beauty (the city sits beside several rivers and is surrounded by mountains). Best of all, Taipei is affordable, and the convenient transportation system enables you to get around the city with ease.

Visit now because: The Taipei Dome – Taiwan's first indoor baseball stadium – opened in December, and will house approximately 14 restaurants that will start running in the first half of the year. Next door, Eslite 's Songyan outlet is scheduled to begin operating in late January – a 24-hour bookstore not to be missed by bookworms. 

The big numbers: Eighty-eight percent of Taipei locals would call their hometown beautiful, while the city’s eating and drinking scene scored an impressive 90 percent approval rating.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Taipei

47.  Istanbul

What makes us great: Once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Istanbul is now the dynamic and cosmopolitan heart of Türkiye. The city is packed with historical riches – take the Topkapi Palace, the Basilica Cistern, the Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque, to name a few. Those who want to experience Istanbul’s buzzing social life should head to the lively areas of Kadikoy, Galata, Besiktas or Karakoy. The Bosphorus on the European side is, of course, one of the most beautiful parts of Istanbul – make sure to visit the neighborhoods of Ortakoy, Arnavutkoy, and Bebek, take a walk on the coastal promenades and spend a morning in one of many cosy cafés. Istanbul Modern , Türkiye's first modern and contemporary art museum, was recently renovated and reopened in a new location and is a must-see. Finally, there’s the immense clubbing scene – we recommend Klein Phönix , Frankhan , Mini Müzikhol , and Gizli Bahçe .

Visit now because: In 2022, Istanbul’s restaurants were featured in the Michelin Guide for the first time. Michelin-starred Turk is a shining example of the city’s colourful and innovative dining scene, headed up by chef Fatih Tutak whose modern interpretation of traditional Turkish flavors is truly fantastic. 

The big numbers: A whopping 100 percent of Istanbul residents said their city was beautiful. When you see the shimmering Bosphorus and the Blue Mosque’s miranets silhouetted against the sunset, you’ll see why.

📍 Discover the best things to do in Istanbul

48.  Osaka

What makes us great: Japan has one of the fastest-ageing populations in the world, but you wouldn’t know it from walking through the bustling streets of Osaka . The city has a decidedly youthful spirit, jam-packed with boisterous standing bars and affordable food stalls. It’s easy to see why Osaka is hailed as ‘the nation’s kitchen’. There are the okonomiyaki (savoury pancake) restaurants and kushi-katsu (deep-fried skewer) counters. Sashimi at car park-turned-outdoor-eatery Izakaya Toyo and two-Michelin-starred La Cime , ranked eighth on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list . Then there’s the city’s rich history, found in landmarks like the sixteenth-century Osaka Castle, and a community of locals known for their uninhibited and friendly nature. Is it any wonder Osaka was chosen to host the World Expo 2025?

Visit now because: Following the success of the world's first Super Nintendo World, opened in 2021, Universal Studios Japan is set for an exciting upgrade this spring with an all-new Donkey Kong-themed area . Building on Super Nintendo World’s real-life video game features, Donkey Kong Country promises more opportunities for visitors to interact with their surroundings using their Power-Up Bands, as well as a hair-raising mine cart rollercoaster.

The big numbers: Luckily for locals, eating out in the kitchen of Japan won’t batter the bankcard, as Osaka’s food scene was given a very impressive 88 percent affordability score.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Osaka

49.  Hong Kong

What makes us great: 2024 marks the first year since 2020 Hong Kong is fully open to the world again, ushering in the return of many exciting events . It’s still one of Asia’s most unique places to visit, particularly when it comes to food – the city has a distinct street food scene and its open-air dai pai dongs are perfect for budget travellers, while those with a bit more cash to splash can head to any number of Michelin-starred restaurants and restaurants with scenic views of the Victoria Harbour . It’s also surrounded by nature, with plenty of outdoorsy activities such as hiking , coasteering and canyoning to get stuck into – and its brunch scene is popping. In March, Hong Kong cements its status as Asia’s art hub with the full-scale return of Art Basel and Art Central , where a mix of local and international artworks will be showcased alongside enhanced programmes at M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum . New attractions include the world's first Frozen-themed land at Hong Kong Disneyland and the near-completion of Kai Tak Sports Park .

Visit now because: Hong Kong's bars are regularly crowned on prestigious lists – check out the city’s OG-hidden bar 001 and the new Cantonese-inspired bar Kinsman , followed by breathtaking skyline views at Cardinal Point . 

The big numbers: Hongkongers rightfully rate their city’s good looks, with 88 percent saying they find Hong Kong beautiful.  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Hong Kong  

50.  Vancouver

What makes us great: Vancouver is the kind of city in which climbing a nearly three-kilometre mountain trail is considered a good time. But there’s more to the West Coast metropolis than just hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, snowboarding, and skiing. The city is as much a summertime destination as it is a wintertime one – locals flock to beaches and events such as the Celebration of Light fireworks extravaganza, the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, and Khatsahlano , a street party in one of the city’s most photogenic neighbourhoods. Year-round, Vancouver is – outside of Japan – the unofficial sushi capital of the world, and boasts an exciting contemporary foodie scene with nine one-Michelin-starred restaurants. A hip new spot, Andrea Gail , is very Vancouver: the décor is punk, the food vegetarian, and it’s located near a shipping yard.

Visit now because: Drinking in Vancouver has never been more exciting than it is right now. For craft beer aficionados, no trip is complete without a visit to Storm , one of the city’s oldest and boldest. And cocktail lovers will swoon over the selection at Key Party , a speakeasy hidden behind a faux accountancy firm storefront. 

The big numbers: Vancouver could well lay claim to being Canada’s prettiest city, with 94 percent of locals saying they found the city beautiful (beating Montreal by 2 percent).  

📍 Discover the best things to do in Vancouver

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Explore > Destinations > Chicago > 52 most fun cities in America

52 most fun cities in America

The results are in, and we have the official list of the 52 most fun cities in the U.S.!

We joined forces with Vivid Seats , the largest independent online ticket marketplace, to find the most fun places to travel in the U.S. Based on historical Vivid Seats data and compiled using our savvy travel expertise, these cities are home to people who know how to have fun on the town and are anything but homebodies. Our list includes cities with the highest number of tickets sold for sporting events, concerts, and theater productions.

From places with crazy loyal sports fans to towns with some major stage action, these cities have certainly earned their bragging rights as the most fun U.S. cities to visit. Did your favorite towns make the list?

1. Los Angeles, California

The City of Angels has spread its wings and earned the top spot on the list, having sold the highest number of tickets across Vivid Seats venues than any other city. Audiences came out in droves to the famous STAPLES Center for Justin Bieber (the highest selling concert). Beliebers had their pick of awesome bars and restaurants to walk to, including top-rated Sugarfish sushi and the best rooftop bar in LA at the Standard. LA sports fans also know how to party: The Dodgers scored a homerun in baseball ticket sales, packing fans into iconic Dodger Stadium. With an Extreme Loaded Dog in one hand, and a serving of Think Blue BBQ in the other, fans root-root-rooted for the home team. Highbrow entertainment is always on the menu in LA, where the witchy musical Wicked took center stage.

2. Chicago, Illinois

Speaking of iconic baseball stadiums, nothing holds a candle to Wrigley Field in Chicago’s historic North Side. You should definitely buy tickets to a game while in town. Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers, but if you ask a local, they’ll tell you about the Cubs, who sold more tickets than any other sports team in town. Between the Navy Pier and its endless entertainments, baseball games, some of the most fun bars in the world (we’re looking at you, Old Town Ale House), and 49 other genres of events, Chicago proved it can let loose with the best of them, placing it in the number two spot.

3. New York City, New York

It’s called the City That Never Sleeps—how could it not steal a top spot? For a classic night out in New York, all eyes are on Broadway, so it comes as no surprise that NYC sold more theater tickets than any other city in the nation. The top ticket? Hamilton, of course, selling out the renowned Richard Rodgers Theatre night after night. Naturally, this dazzling city offers more than just plays. The most exciting restaurants in the world (such as the Momofuku family) call it home, the bars are legendary (21 Club, anyone?), and even natives will never see and do it all (they give it a valiant effort, though). When theater tickets are combined with sporting events and concerts, the number of people headed out on the town place New York high and above most cities on the fun meter.

4. Houston, Texas

This Texan city brings its western roots to the party. The Houston Rodeo lassoed its way to the top, selling the most tickets out of any other event in town. Astros baseball games and Ringling Bros. Circus productions, both top- ticketed events , proved there’s more to Houston than lassos and spurs. Not only that, but Houstonians bought more tickets to events for both inside and outside of the city than any other residents in the nation. Fun city? And fun locals! You can hang (literally) with the locals at Axelrad Beer Garden, which has its own hammock grove. Or, boot scoot over to Rebels Honky Tonk and dance the night away!

5. Boston, Massachusetts

In Boston, over the last five years, there has been one event for every one person living in the city (according to the 2012 Census). Of all those events, theater performances sold a massive portion. In fact, Boston sold the third most theater tickets. Theater is just the tip of the iceberg, however. Speaking of ice, not just the drinks are cool at Frost Ice Loft, a prime example of how Boston is redefining fun. Innovative bars, great music venues, and top restaurants keep Boston energized and active–and we all know how seriously they take their sports.

6. Atlanta, Georgia

In Atlanta, it seems like everyone’s looking at the scoreboard. Sporting events scored the highest in ticket sales, with the Braves leading the pack. Overall, residents in this southern city purchased a huge number of tickets to diverse venues around town, like the stellar Georgia Dome. Make unforgettable Atlanta memories with dinner at Revival in Decatur to fuel up before singing your heart out at a Beyoncé concert and dancing the night away at Havana Club. There’s a reason they call this place Hotlanta.

7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If there’s one thing Philadelphia loves to root for, it’s the Phillies, the city’s beloved baseball team . Philadelphia certainly does them proud, as tickets to see them at Citizens Bank Park sold more than any other sporting event in the city. However, theater productions take the top spot in total ticket sales, so Philly obviously understands the best of both worlds. Round that out with festivals (like the raucous Fringe Arts Festival), a robust beer scene (check out Standard Tap), countless killer restaurants, and locals who know how to let loose…maybe they should change their motto to the City of Brotherly Fun.

8. Denver, Colorado

This mountain town likes to crank up the music in the red rocks. The Colorado city sold more concert tickets than any other kind of event, with Garth Brooks stealing the show in ticket sales at Pepsi Center. Combining Denver concerts, theaters productions, and sporting events, the Mile High City is head and shoulders above others when it comes to letting its hair down.

9. Arlington, Texas

Flickr via Rich Anderson

Order another round for Texas; this is its second city in the top ten. Home of the Texas Rangers and Globe Life Park, Arlington is all about the peanuts and Cracker Jacks crowd, as the city’s baseball stadium sells a huge chunk of the total number of tickets purchased in town. Rounding second base, Beyoncé’s concert and Glenn Beck’s theater performance were responsible for tons of ticket sales, too. If baseball, Beyoncé, and Beck aren’t your scene, go for broke with another B and check out the beer at Division Brewing. You’ll be cheering for Arlington in no time.

10. Washington, D.C.

Of course, the nation’s capital had to land a spot in the top ten most fun cities. Selling multitudes of tickets to events across the district, D.C. proves it’s a happenin’ place to be. In terms of sporting events, the Washington Nationals got the most crowds in the stands at ultra-modern Nationals Park. As for music, Taylor Swift appealed most to residents while Beyoncé’s performance got more out-of-towners to D.C. You can celebrate D.C. locals at First Friday art events, or taste what’s brewing in Logan Circle at ChurchKey or Garden District. Anyway you spin it, D.C. is way more fun than its dry political rep might suggest.

• Kansas City, Missouri
• Detroit, Michigan
• San Francisco, California
• Dallas, Texas
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

While Pennsylvania’s second-largest city sold tickets to a whopping number of unique types of events, the main focus was on its Pirate pride. Pittsburgh Pirates baseball games reign as the most popular events in town, after which you can splash around the Water Steps or grab a cold one at McFadden’s.

• San Diego, California
• Seattle, Washington
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Tampa, Florida

This city on the gulf is home to a range of unique venues available on Vivid Seats, which offered multiple genres of events. Tampa clearly loves music: Of the tickets the city sold, concerts, including Beyoncé at the impressive Raymond James Stadium, were the most purchased.

• Baltimore, Maryland
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte sold an impressive number of tickets across genres. Overall, the majority of tickets purchased were for concerts, with Luke Bryan’s performance making the most sales.

• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Miami, Florida
• San Antonio, Texas
• Anaheim, California
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee residents sure love the theater, as stage shows sold the majority of tickets in this Wisconsin city. Of the total tickets sold, Broadway favorite, The Lion King , at the impressive Marcus Center, was the top-ticketed theater event.

• Oakland, California
• Columbus, Ohio

The Ohio State Buckeyes are the talk of the town in Columbus. Buckeye football games were the most popular sporting event in terms of tickets sold not just to Columbus locals, but to those traveling to the game from outside of the city, too. To join the fun, tailgate with the locals and party in the German Village.

• Glendale, Arizona
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Foxborough, Massachusetts
• Portland, Oregon
• Orlando, Florida

Orlando may be the Theme Park Capital of the World, but the city puts on awesome concerts, too. Residents got satisfaction at the Rolling Stones show, which was the most purchased music event . Orlando also bought tons of tickets for the Orlando Magic, and celebrated all things good.

• Raleigh, North Carolina
• San Jose, California
• Santa Clara, California

Of all the cities on the list, Santa Clara sold the most event tickets to people living outside of the city, particularly in nearby San Jose. So, clearly Santa Clara is inviting everyone to the party!

• Salt Lake City, Utah
• Morrison, Colorado

Of the cities included in the data, Morrison was ranked 11th in terms of the most concert ticket orders. You’ll never outdo a concert at the stunning Red Rocks Amphitheatre, so add yourself to those ranks and get yourself to Morrison.

• Austin, Texas
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Pasadena, California
• Newark, New Jersey
• Sunrise, Florida
• Auburn Hills, Michigan

In the sports arena, Auburn Hills residents purchased the most tickets for the Detroit Pistons basketball games. As for concerts, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra performance and Kid Rock concert generated the top ticket sales.

• Inglewood, California
• Camden, New Jersey
• Mansfield, Massachusetts
• Memphis, Tennessee

What cities on this list surprised you the most?

Want to explore more? Visit Undiscovered America for more stories like this!

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The 20 Most Fun Cities in America Ranked

A new year is just around the corner and we all deserve a bit of fun despite the ongoing doom and gloom the pandemic has brought into our lives since 2019.

Personal-finance website WalletHub has ranked America cities on fun using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Trust for Public Land, Yelp, and other databases.

It compared more than 180 cities on "Entertainment & Recreation," "Nightlife & Parties" and "Costs." Then 65 metrics such as festivals per capita, restaurants per capita, most accessible bars, lowest beer and movie costs, were used to score them.

Here are the top 20 most fun cities in the country, according to the report:

20. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis has respectable scores across the board, including on the "entertainment and recreation," "nightlife and parties," and "cost" categories.

Among the highlights, check out Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Moto Museum, Adventure Valley Zipline, Central Library and the Lumiere Casino.

19. Houston

The second-most fun city in Texas, according to the report, Houston is one of the top five cities with the most dance clubs per capita and most park playgrounds per capita.

Check out the Johnson Space Center, Houston Rodeo, Armadillo Palace, and the Art Car Museum.

18. Washington, D.C.

The capital is a fun cit,y but a pricey one. Costs aside, there is plenty to do and see in Washington.

To name a few: the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Library of Congress , the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court , the Smithsonian Institute, and many other attractions such as Tidal Basin, the Kennedy Center, Cady's Alley, La Cosecha and Union Market.

17. Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati scored well in "entertainment and recreational" category and, thanks to the city's many bars, also scored highly on "nightlife & parties."

WalletHub also recognizes Cincinnati's fitness centers (No. 19), festivals (No. 21), restaurants and playgrounds (both No. 22).

A visit to the Queen's City should include when possible the Weston Art Gallery, a walk around the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Washington Park, Cincinnati Nature Center, the Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and maybe a River Ohio cruise.

16. San Diego, California

San Diego went down the fun scale, from No.9 in 2019 to number 16 this year, partly because this popular vacation destination is an expensive place.

That said, the Californian city, scores very high on "entertainment and recreation" and there are plenty of things to do that won't cost you a thing such as enjoying the mild climate, catching some sun on the many beaches or a visit to the famous Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and restaurants.

15. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale ranks No.1 in most fitness centers per capita and most accessible bars. Nicknamed the Venice of America, it offers miles of white-sand beaches, as well as boating canals, waterfront resorts, restaurants and the International Swimming Hall of Fame.

The nightlife and spring break at Fort Lauderdale are pretty epic for party lovers. It has moved up the ranking significantly since 2019.

14. Seattle

From the 17th spot in 2019, this fun city, with lots of entertainment, nightlife, food, and culture has moved up the ranking to No.14 in 2021.

Fun aside, the Emerald City is also a nature-filled mecca with incredible rolling mountains, beautiful waterfronts and loads of urban natural spaces.

13. Portland, Oregon

Porland welcomes you with beautiful waterfronts, stunning views, parks, festivals, art, culture, museums, and galleries.

Worth a visit is the Native American art at the Portland Art Museum. The slogan, "Keep Portland Weird" makes sense considering how unique the city is, and as for fun, it has everything you need and more.

12. Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City has plenty to offer when it comes to fun. It caters to everyone; sports fans, art and culture lovers, foodies, outdoors lovers, the list goes on.

In addition, there is the eternal sunshine and friendly locals.

11. Tampa, Florida

The third most fun city in Florida, according to the party animals at WalletHub, Tampa tops the festivals per capita metric.

Visitors love exploring the Spanish-Cuban neighborhood Ybor City, the Busch Gardens theme park, the Tampa Riverwalk, Seminole Heights and cat lovers, will never miss the chance to pay a visit to the Big Cat Rescue sanctuary.

10. New York City

New York has dropped from No.3 to No. 10 on the fun list.

For families, the city has the most playgrounds per square foot of population.

And for clubbers, NYC also scores high when it comes to nightlife and entertainment.

But out of all the cities reviewed, New York is the most expensive. It has it all, but at a cost.

9. Honolulu, Hawaii

Hawaii's capital Honolulu tops the list when it comes to "entertainment and recreation."

It has the most acres of parkland per capita and most festivals per capita.

There is non-stop vibrant nightlife in Waikiki, open-air shopping center of Ala Moana, or the Diamond Head, not to mention the impressive beaches that awe visitors, including: Waikiki, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, Lanikai beach and Kahala Beach.

Chicago has the most restaurants per capita and most park playgrounds per capita, the Windy City also scores high on entertainment and nightlife.

There is no time to get bored when you have the Chicago museum,the Willis Tower park, Chicago beaches, plenty of local music venues, festivals and events as well as endless possibilities for shopping and dining.

Austin was the highest-scoring city in Texas.

The home of SXSW, Austin is no doubt a top destination for live music, boasting more than 250 music venues.

The nightlife is legendary and so is the welcoming, friendly vibe. The city also caters to art lovers and curious minds with top-notch museums such as the Bullock Texas State History Museum and the Blanton Museum of Art.

6. San Francisco

The top Californian city on the list at No. 6.

The city by the bay took the No. 1 slot for having the most dance clubs per capita and—with Boston—has the highest share of the population with walkable park access.The Golden Gate park, Twin Peaks, Glen Canyon Park, Bernal Hill and many others that make San Francisco a big playground.

The city also scored well for the many festivals on offer and for having some of the most restaurants per capita. The beautiful bay, stunning views, wonderful hikes, interesting museums, lovely architecture, great cuisine, and down to earth vibe make San Francisco a wonderful and fun place to visit.

5. New Orleans

Famous for its music, New Orleans hosts over 130 festivals and celebrations every year; including the popular Mardi Gras, the Jazz and Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, Art for Art's Sake, or Southern Decadence, among others.

The city is an amalgam of cultures that includes Creoles, African Americans, Spanish, Germans, Jews, and many other communities that make New Orleans an interesting, fun and soulful place to visit. When nightime falls, vibrant Bourbon Street is the place to be.

Miami remains in the fourth position on the fun scale. The "Magic City" has lots of fashionable places to eat and hang out, beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, an international cuisine, and a thriving nightlife that attracts millions of visitors to this a subtropical city every year.

Same as Orlando, Chicago, San Francisco, or Las Vegas, Miami also tops on most restaurants per capita criterion according to WalletHub .

Ranked No. 6 in 2019, but this year the "city in a forest" has climbed up the fun scale.

Home to a stunning skyline, this charming southern city offers a thriving food scene and plenty of cultural and fun activities at a reasonable cost.

Visiting the birth home of Martin Luther King Jr. or the Center for Civil and Human Rights, is always a great idea when in Atlanta. Apart from that, there are plenty of parks, trails, shopping districts and always something to do and see.

2. Orlando, Florida

Second in "entertainment and recreation" as well as "nightlife and parties" categories, and has the most restaurants per square foot of the population.

Famous for its theme parks such as Disney World or Universal, Orlando offers plenty of fun things to do in the Florida sunshine at a more affordable price than other major "fun" cities in the country.

The city has hotels that cater to any budget, excellent restaurants and cultural attractions, including the Orlando Science Center, Wekiwa Springs State Park, or Mennello Museum of American Folk Art.

Orlando, Miami and Las Vegas were among those tied for 'Most Restaurants per Capita.'

1. Las Vegas

The "Entertainment Capital of the World", Las Vegas, took the number one slot for the most fun city in America just like in 2019 (the list was not available in 2020 due to the pandemic).

The city also ranked number one as the most sinful city in the country. As expected, it scored very high on metrics that include most festivals per capita, most restaurants per capita, and most dance clubs per capita and number of attractions.

No surprises there for the city known as "Gambling Capital of the World," the "Marriage Capital of the World," and the "Neon Capital of the World."

• These Cities Have The Most Bars Per Capita in America
• The 25 Hottest Cities in America
• These Are the 20 Smallest Towns in America

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These Are America’s 20 Most Fun Cities. You Won’t Believe What Didn’t Make the List

Is your city one of them?

Personal finance website WalletHub has released a list of 2021’s Most Fun Cities in America , and it’s going to ruffle some feathers. Many usual suspects are missing from the top 20 positions that were analyzed and cherry-picked after comparing more than 180 cities on three dimensions (Entertainment and Recreation, Nightlife and Parties, and Cost). Then 65 metrics like festivals per capita, restaurants per capita, most accessible bars, and lowest beer and movie costs, were used to score them. The list was skipped last year due to the pandemic, so we’re also weighing this year’s results to 2019.

Surprisingly, Los Angeles just missed to make it to the list—it’s on the 21st spot with an overall score of 46.25 (down from number 10 in 2019). The star-studded city has plentiful dance clubs, but it costs a lot to catch a movie here. You’d think that Nashville would make the cut, but it is further down at number 27. Philadelphia had the 20th spot in the previous survey, but the City of Brotherly Love is now 23. And Charleston, known for its bar-crawling downtown and bachelorette party scene, ranks 24. The poorest scorer–number 182–is Hawaii’s Pearl City, with the fewest restaurants per square foot population.

Don’t agree with the results? Tell us why your city is the best!

Top Picks for You

WHERE: Nevada

This shouldn’t surprise anyone. It bagged the crown in 2019 as well and it retains its title as the most fun city in the U.S. 

It’s the top scorer in Nightlife and Parties. Party central Las Vegas scores high on metrics including most festivals per capita, most restaurants per capita, and most dance clubs per capita. The city sure knows how to pump revelers with energy with its high stake tables, indulgent dining, unmissable entertainment, and thriving nightclubs and bars. 

Want to see it for yourself? Plan your trip using this guide and go all out.

WHERE: Florida

Another repeat from 2019 is Orlando. The second most fun city in the U.S. has low costs and ranks second in Entertainment and Recreation as well as Nightlife and Parties. It also has the most restaurants (per square foot of the population).

The theme parks that are synonymous with Orlando are a big part of its wide appeal. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly properties, the city gives you a chance to really be happy without sweating it out about costs. And once you’re done with Mickey Mouse and Harry Potter, you can turn your attention to the Orlando Science Center, Wekiwa Springs State Park, and Mennello Museum of American Folk Art.

Recommended Fodor’s Video

Where: georgia.

Atlanta, which was number 6 in 2019, has climbed up to take the third position this time! Whether or not you love The Real Housewives of Atlanta , you’ll love the southern charm of this city, along with its thriving food culture. Visit the birth home of Martin Luther King Jr., watch a performance at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and visit the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Atlanta has a multi-faceted personality and you can have lots of fun peeling back its layers.

Miami retains its number 4 position on the list and ties up with Orlando, Chicago, San Francisco, and Las Vegas on most restaurants per capita criterion. The fourth fun city is trendy, hip, and fashionable, with stunning beaches, pulsating nightlife, international cuisines, and diverse cultural attractions.

If you want to make the best of your trip to its glamorous city, we know how to play the tunes of Miami on a budget .

New Orleans

Where: louisiana.

There are more than 130 festivals that happen in New Orleans every year. Mardi Gras alone brings in 1.4 million visitors, but there are others including the Jazz and Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, Art for Art’s Sake, Southern Decadence, and the French Market Creole Tomato Festival. The city’s culture is a gift from African Americans, French, Creoles, the Latinx community, Spaniards, Jews, and Germans (and other communities), and it celebrates the decadent mix with a passion.

San Francisco

Where: california.

The gorgeous bay, lovely hikes, interesting architecture, and top-class dining are all in the favor of the sixth most fun city in the U.S. The seat of tech giants, San Francisco has nature on its side—it has the highest share of the population with walkable park access. In addition, it also scores well on dance clubs per capita, restaurants per capita, and festivals per capita. 

WHERE: Texas

The college town of Austin has seen exponential growth in the last couple of years. It is one of the top destinations for live music with over 250 venues! You’ll love the art, the nightlife, the food, and the friendly vibe here. It’s number seven on this list, which is an improvement from 2019, and it’s likely it’ll walk higher if it continues to amp up its nightlife.

WHERE: Illinois

With the most restaurants per capita and most park playgrounds per capita, Chicago claims the eighth spot on the list. It scores high on entertainment and nightlife, which is to be expected, right? The city is big on sports, architecture, shopping, museums, dining, and music. Plus, there’s deep-dish pizza, blues, Lake Michigan, and Frank Lloyd Wright.

WHERE: Hawaii

Honolulu has the top spot when it comes to Entertainment and Recreation. It has the most acres of parkland per capita and most festivals per capita, all of which have added up to make it the ninth most fun city in the U.S. The food and nightlife hub of Waikiki, the open-air shopping center of Ala Moana, the iconic Diamond Head, and the long stretch of beaches (Kahala, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and Sandy Beach Park) are some of the best tropical attractions.

WHERE: New York

The concrete jungle where dreams are made of has slipped from three to a modest 10. It’s definitely a lot of fun to be in New York —the rooftop bars, the Broadway musicals, the trendy restaurants and cafes, the adventurous subway, and the world-class museums deserve to be rewarded. What’s interesting is that New York has the most playgrounds (per square foot of population) and has high rankings when it comes to nightlife and entertainment, but it’s the most expensive city on the list (with a very high average cost of beer). Dreams come at a price, huh?

Another city in Florida features in the Most Fun Cities in the U.S. list! Tampa also tops most the festivals per capita metric, thanks to its full calendar of food, culture, and fun events. Fly down here and you’ll get to explore the Spanish-Cuban neighborhood Ybor City, spend a day at the Busch Gardens theme park, bike along the Tampa Riverwalk, and visit the Big Cat Rescue sanctuary.

WHERE: Colorado

Colorado’s capital has a lot going on for it. The Mile High City is the first point of contact when planning a hike to the Rocky Mountains. It has an appreciation for nature and the outdoors, but there’s nothing rustic about it—it’s an urban city with sports fans, beer lovers, art aficionados, and gourmands. 

If you’re heading to this fun city, check out our curated guide to help you uncover all its exciting attractions

WHERE: Oregon

The cost of an average beer may be high in Portland, but it’s a city that treats locals and tourists with its parks, festivals, art, culture, museums, and galleries. Eat at the city’s hottest restaurants, patronize local-approved coffeehouses and breweries, introduce yourself to Native American art at the Portland Art Museum, and read a book in one of its many, many parks (International Rose Test Garden and Lan Su Chinese Garden are great choices). The Saturday Market, Powell’s City of Books, and Oregon Brewers Festival should also be on your wishlist, and you should definitely check out the calendar of events before planning your trip.

WHERE: Washington

From the 17th spot in 2019, it’s number 14 for Seattle this year. Tom Hanks will agree that it’s a fun city, with lots of entertainment, nightlife, food, and culture. Nature reigns supreme in Seattle, home to massive parks, rolling mountains, and spectacular waterfronts. You have dynamic chefs plating up interesting dishes, excellent cafes outshining homegrown Starbucks, and the 20th-century farmer’s market, Pike Place Market. 

Fort Lauderdale

Does it seem like Florida is having too much fun? Fort Lauderdale ranks first in most fitness centers per capita and most accessible bars. The city had made a leap from spot 24 to 15 this year. It is home to white-sand beaches and boating canals, waterfront resorts, upscale boutiques and restaurants, and historic bungalows.

It ranked 26 on the same list in 2019.

This Californian city has had a downfall—from number 9 to 16. It scores very high on Entertainment and Recreation, but it’s an expensive city. Nonetheless, it’s a tourist favorite and welcomed more than 35 million people in 2019 (the numbers have since dropped due to the pandemic). The climate is mild, the beaches are picturesque, and the city is dog-friendly. Plan your visit around the San Diego County Fair, see rare animals at the San Diego Zoo, watch seals in La Jolla, and explore the Balboa Park, a grand home to museums, gardens, and restaurants. 

WHERE: Ohio

On the fun scale, Cincinnati is number 17 in the U.S. with a seal of approval for its entertainment and recreational options. Home to one of the most popular zoos in the country, Cincinnati also has a collection of museums that make an appearance on most itineraries. The historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood has the Findlay Market—an old institution with food, music, produce, and pop-ups—and Washington Park that plays host to a number of events and festivals. 

A weekend getaway to Cincinnati is incomplete without a visit to the Weston Art Gallery, Cincinnati Nature Center, and the Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and a sightseeing cruise on River Ohio. No wonder it made it onto our Go List this year .

Washington, D.C.

Washington is costly, yes, but it has a range of free attractions that should make it to any list, including this one. Museums have a reputation of being boring, but in the capital city, they breathe life into every experience. The Smithsonian Institute, with its 17 free museums, galleries, and zoos, offers an insight into the history and culture of America and the world. You’ll of course want more slices of history with the Washington Monument, the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court, Lincoln Memorial, and the Library of Congress. And, of course, the White House. There are also other attractions that first-time and frequent travelers love: Tidal Basin, the Kennedy Center, Cady’s Alley, La Cosecha, and Union Market. 

Need more suggestions? Check out the ultimate things to do in Washington, D.C .

Number 19 on the list of fun American cities goes to Houston. It is among the top five cities with the most dance clubs per capita and most park playgrounds per capita. If you want to explore Houston’s fun side, you have to check out the Johnson Space Center, Houston Rodeo, Armadillo Palace, and the Art Car Museum.

WHERE: Missouri

St. Louis has average scores across the board on Entertainment and Recreation, Nightlife and Parties, and Cost. There’s something for everyone to do here. Get started with the Gateway Arch, Forest Park, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, Moto Museum, Adventure Valley Zipline, Central Library, and the Lumiere Casino. In addition, St. Louis has an assortment of events to celebrate its culture and heritage.

USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US

From snowcapped mountains to tropical beaches, from some of the world’s most iconic cities to some of its most incredible deserts, from the east coast to the west, one thing is incredibly certain: there is absolutely no shortage of awe-inspiring, utterly diverse, and incredibly beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Our home country boasts one of the most incredible national park systems on the planet, along with a huge variety of cities, small towns, and other gorgeous places that ensure that a lifetime would not be long enough to see all of the best travel destinations in the USA.

… But that won’t stop us from trying to enjoy as many of the most amazing vacations in the United States as we can.

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to put together this giant USA bucket list, and definitely added a few new spots to our personal list of places to see in the US in the process!

From coast to coast, city to countryside, here are the best places to visit in the USA.

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

National parks + other beautiful places for a us vacation, beaches + islands for your usa bucket list, other beautiful places in the usa to visit.

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New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

New York is one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the United States and even the world.

It truly is a city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives even if it’s just for a quick weekend in NYC !

The tall buildings are mesmerizing and awe-inspiring, it’s home to some of the most exquisite museums and galleries in the world, and New York City is brimming with so much to explore and see.

Plus, NYC is a foodie’s heaven with cuisines from all over the world.

… And, these are only a few of the many reasons to visit this magnificent city.

Some bucket-list-worthy things to do in New York City are to watch a play on Broadway, see the Statue of Liberty, hang out in Time Square, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and take a stroll around Central Park.

A few museums to visit are the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Guggenheim, and the American Museum of Natural History.

Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 5th Avenue, Empire State Building, and Chelsea Market are must-sees as well.

Whatever you decide to do in New York City , you’re in for a real treat!

This city will leave you feeling inspired and you’ll want to book another trip to come back!

Miami, Florida

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

Vibrant and colorful Miami is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the US.

The downtown area merges into wonderfully diverse neighborhoods from Little Havana to Coral Gables.

However, most visitors to the vibrant yet laid-back city head to its beaches located on a long stretch of a barrier island.

South Beach especially is where the glamor’s at, topped by stylish Ocean Drive, which is lined with elegant Art Deco houses including Versace’s mansion, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs… the scene is pretty lively there.

The beach itself features uniquely colored watchtowers spread around nice light sand. The waves are mostly mild. Pelicans like it here too and often float on the water near people.

Watching a sunrise on the beach belongs to one of the best experiences one can have in the area.

Miami City and its beaches can easily be visited  even without a car .

The public transport network and the ample ride/bike-sharing services make it an easy destination for any type of traveler.

San Diego, California

From Maria of San Diego Explorer

San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any USA bucket list.

Also known as America’s Finest City, San Diego has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts in San Diego , a fun time in the city, or a mix of both.

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego!

In Downtown San Diego, there is something for everyone: from eating delicious Italian fare in Little Italy to visiting the Midway Museum to strolling through Seaport Village, and having a fun night out in the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you love the outdoors and animals, visit Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.  

And then, there are the beaches: San Diego has some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Some of the most popular ones are Mission Beach, Coronado, and the beaches in La Jolla.

You can relax on the sand, take surfing lessons, or ride your bike along the boardwalk for a fun day on the beach.  

San Diego has so much to offer and is simply a fun city, no matter what you are in the mood for. 

Austin, Texas

The Live Music Capital of the World and capital of the state of Texas is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and offers a fantastic combination of excellent nightlife, plenty of outdoor activities and day trip opportunities, and truly phenomenal food.

Don’t leave without having at least one giant meal each worth of TexMex and barbecue!

While in Austin, be sure to visit trendy South Congress Avenue, watch the bats fly out from under the South Congress Bridge (if you’re visiting at the right time of year, that is), see a show, and go for a hike (or if it’s too hot, hit the lake!).

Want to get out of town?

Austin is within an easy day trip of natural swimming holes, Texas’ wine country, and adorable small towns.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Good food, good music, and good times: of all the best places to visit in the USA, NOLA definitely ranks toward the top of the list for places to go to simply have an amazing time.

There’s far more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, Bourbon Street, and beignets, though.

With a dark and complex history heavily impacted by slavery and a constantly evolving modern culture, New Orleans deserves more than just partying during your visit–though there’s plenty of time for that, too.

While in New Orleans, be sure to listen to some jazz, learn a bit about the city’s history, visit the famous Jackson Square, head to the Garden District, check out the beautiful oak trees in City Park, and–this is very important–eat your heart out.

NOLA is indisputably home to some of the best food in the country–so good, in fact, that the food alone would be a good enough reason to add New Orleans to your USA bucket list.

For those interested in New Orleans’ spooky legends, a ghost tour through the French Quarter at night is also worth adding to your to-do list!

Washington, DC

From Jordan of The Solo Life

One of the best travel destinations in the United States is the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

With everything from museums to monuments to the White House and Capitol Building, DC has something for everyone .

In addition, DC’s public transportation and numerous free attractions make it a surprising destination for the budget-friendly traveler.

Kid-friendly options include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery of Art or the Hirshhorn Museum for modern and contemporary art.

History buffs should check out the Library of Congress and the National Archives Museum.

Besides museums, the National Mall and Tidal Basin are must-visit locations to see the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, among others.

The best times to visit DC include early summer before it gets too hot or in the fall once summer break is over.

Although extremely crowded due to the Cherry Blossoms, springtime is also a gorgeous time to visit.

No matter what time of year, Washington, DC is one of the best destinations to visit in the US.

San Francisco, California

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of bucket lists for the United States.

And, with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco!

Visiting the Muir Woods is an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia has been one of the coolest US cities to visit for centuries, and–like Boston–it features strong ties to the American Revolution.

This is where the Declaration of Independence and the Consitution were signed, touring Independence Hall and visiting the nearby Liberty Bell are among the best things to do in Philadelphia today as a result!

You can’t miss Philly’s food scene when visiting, either–from whoopie pies to Philly cheesesteaks, the city has a (literal) flavor all its own.

Start–but don’t finish–exploring Philadelphia’s food scene at the historic Reading Terminal Market.

Be sure to also make time to visit some of Philadelphia’s incredible museums during your visit, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution (we loved this one), and touring the dark but fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also home to another essential stop in this iconic East Coast City: the Rocky Steps.

And, if you’re willing to work up a sweat, definitely consider running up them yourself during your classic American vacation in Philadelphia!

Chicago, Illinois

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, and also one of the most ethnically diverse.

Its skyline reflecting off the waters of Lake Michigan is a sight to behold.

No matter what your interests are, whether it’s music, shopping, culture, art, or dining, you could spend months exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

On a shorter USA vacation, though, you can still see quite a few of the best sights in Chicago!

The city’s top museums include the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Don’t forget to check out the many outdoor sculptures and other public works of art around the Loop, either.

A walk along the Magnificent Mile will take you past upscale department stores and through Millennium Park, home of the famous sculpture known as The Bean.

A visit to Bronzeville, also known as “the Black Metropolis”, is a must to learn about the city’s rich African-American history.

Architecture buffs will be interested to know that this is where Frank Lloyd Wright established the Prairie School architectural style. You can find some of his earliest buildings here in Chicago.

You’ll work up an appetite walking the streets of this massive city. This is a good thing, because the restaurant scene here is amazing!

You can find pretty much any cuisine you could imagine, from stylish Japanese to homestyle soul food, and there are even lots of vegetarian and  vegan restaurants in Chicago .

Houston, Texas

From Thanh of The Traveling Asian

Houston, Texas is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States, and while an unexpected vacation option, certainly one that will impress.

After all, it is the 4th largest city in the USA and is often ranked as the most diverse city in the country!

Because of this size, you can expect there to be all kinds of things for you to see and do here in this city.

One of the most iconic places you must visit in the city is Space Center Houston.

There you can learn about NASA and space travel as well as take a tour around the famous mission control center. If you love space, then this place is for you.

Houston is also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which is the biggest rodeo of its kind in the country.

There, you’ll be able to eat some delicious rodeo foods, pet some livestock, learn about animals, play at the amusement park, and even watch a concert by famous celebrities.

But aside from the attractions, Houston is known for its food. Since it is the most diverse city in the country, you can find just about everything available here in this city.

For instance, you can find Tex-Mex, Chinese, Ethiopian, Greek, and many other ethnic cuisines available all around the area.

So if you love food and all things fun, then Houston is definitely the place for you.

Las Vegas, Nevada

From Kimberley of Two Travelling Toques

If you’re looking for a cool place to visit in the USA, you can’t get much cooler than Las Vegas .

This well-known city has been depicted in numerous movies such as The Hangover and Ocean’s Thirteen as party central.

And if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it in Vegas.

Long known as both the wedding capital for a quick place to get married, or the perfect spot to hold a bachelor or bachelorette party, either way, it’s the spot to bring your friends, let loose, and have fun!

Gambling has been a big draw to Las Vegas since the early 1930s, and there is no shortage of showy and extravagant casinos to choose from.

Nightlife also takes center stage here.

From world-class musicians to top-notch magical acts, to dependable artists like Wayne Newton who have had a residency here for years. 

During the day, you can grab a fancy drink and chill by the pool. Or hit up one of the pool parties and listen to the headlining DJ.

Either way, be sure to bring lots of money for the high-end shops, ever-flowing drinks, and dazzling casinos looking to draw you in. 

Savannah, Georgia

Without a doubt, the small but stunning city of Savannah, Georgia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Featuring absolutely stunning architecture, 22 of its original 24 town squares, endless oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and some of the best food in the country, spending a few days in Savannah is bound to be a delight.

While you’re there, be sure to meander down beautiful Jones Street, check out Forsyth Park, hear some of the city’s most enduring legends on a ghost tour, enjoy views from River Street, and take in some of Savannah’s complex history at its various house museums and houses of worship.

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to eat!

While there are dozens of incredible  restaurants in Savannah , favorites include The Olde Pink House and The Grey for special occasions, The Collins Quarter for their legendary lavender mocha latte, and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream.

Have enough time for a quick  day trip ?

Tybee Island –also known as “Savannah’s Beach”–is less than a 30-minute drive away, and while you certainly won’t want to swim in the summer, strolling along the sand and climbing the lighthouse are a treat.

Los Angeles, California

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking for the coolest place to visit in the United States?

Visit Los Angeles; a unique combination of the entertainment industry, gorgeous beaches, great food, and vibrant nightlife.

It is certainly not the cheapest place in California , but for the right travelers, LA is definitely worth the price tag.

Los Angeles is a large city full of tourist attractions that won’t let you stay idle.

If you are a beach lover, LA won’t disappoint you with its stunning beaches that include Malibu, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, Hermosa Beach, and so on.

There are several fantastic museums in LA. LACMA is the most popular one for its diverse art collections and special exhibits.

Some other renowned museums are the Grammy Museum, Natural History Museum, and Museum of Broken Relationships.

While visiting LA, you will notice entertainment at every corner of the city. You can see a concert or enjoy a ride at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

If you rent a car in Los Angeles, go for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway that carves through the mountains of Malibu.

Los Angeles has some of the best restaurants in the US.

Once you are done with LA sightseeing, have lunch at any of these food spots – Diakokuya for ramen, Langer’s for a pastrami sandwich, Guisados for tacos, or pizza at Mozza.

Seattle, Washington

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the best USA travel destinations.

When visiting Seattle, be sure to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods?

Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside?

Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Charleston, South Carolina

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south.

Fantastic Lowcountry food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, and lots of history to uncover are wonderful to appreciate in both Charleston and Savannah –but Charleston absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

On your Charleston vacation, be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Garden, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

If you’d like to do some shopping while in Charleston, King Street is the place to go.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach and/or Sullivan’s Island!

Orlando, Florida

As the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is one of the most popular places to visit in the USA for both domestic and international visitors, mostly on behalf of one iconic mouse.

As home to Walt Disney World , Orlando is a must-see USA bucket list item for many families across the world, and with four amazing Disney parks packed with rides, experiences, and intense amounts of nostalgia, it’s no wonder why.

Disney isn’t the only theme park game in town, though!

Universal Studios Orlando, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is also a fantastic theme park to visit, and big roller coaster fans may even want to take a day trip to Tampa Bay to experience Busch Gardens.

Though the parks are a big draw for people visiting Orlando with kids and kids at heart alike, theme parks aren’t the only places to visit in and around Orlando.

The Kennedy Space Center, plenty of beaches, and even cool swimming holes like Wekiva Springs are within day-trip distance of Orlando.

Portland, Oregon

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw. 

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your USA bucket list!

Nashville, Tennessee

From Apryl of Southern Traveling Gal

No doubt about it, there’s something about Nashville, that casts a long-lasting spell on travelers.

For travelers visiting Nashville, it’s not unheard of to plan a return trip as soon as the current one is over!

Only in “The Music City” is it possible to catch the latest exhibit at the Frist Art Museum, see a replica of the Parthenon and enjoy live music at venues along the Honky Tonk Highway.

For first-timers, touring country music icons like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-do.

Don’t overlook artist-specific museums such as the Johnny Cash Museum and Glen Campbell Museum that provides a closer look at these music giants, either.

Much of Nashville’s allure lies within its distinctive neighborhoods, like the Gulch, filled with shops and restaurants.

It isn’t unusual to spot a long line or two here, typically featuring either people waiting in line to take a photo with the “What Lifts You” mural or getting into Biscuit Love.

Save some room for some barbecue from Peg Leg Porker!

12thSouth offers locally-owned boutiques, stores, and eateries. Also found here is Draper James, the flagship store of Reese Witherspoon’s clothing line.

Be sure to take home some cookies from Christie’s Cookie Company and snap a photo with the “I Believe in Nashville” mural.

Across the Cumberland River is the eclectic East Nashville. Don’t miss out on the mini doughnuts at Donut Distillery.

Depending on time, consider visiting Cheekwood Estates and Gardens, a 55-acre botanical garden, as part of your Nashville getaway.

Of course, no trip to Nashville is complete without hot chicken from Prince’s Hot Chicken or biscuits from Loveless Cafe, located near the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Boston, Massachusetts

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Boston is such a cool city to visit in the USA, rich in history, architecture, and food.

Along the waterfront, you can walk the 43-mile-long Harbor Walk.

But there is so much more to add to see during your trip to Boston, like the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path taking you to 16 significant places in American history.

It is well marked and technically be walked in as little as 90 minutes, though you can download the app and visit each place which will take at least a whole day to complete.

Boston is home to the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common, which is situated next to Boston Public Garden.

You can wander the parks and enjoy a ride in the Boston Public Garden’s historic paddleboats.

Nearby, you’ll find the Boston Public Library at Copley Square, which is an incredibly beautiful Renaissance Revival structure from 1895 that you should visit.

You’ll also find the beautiful neighborhood of Beacon Hill nearby, as well as the trendy neighborhood of Back Bay.

For the best views of the city during your Boston itinerary , visit the Skywalk Observatory.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States and one of the best places to visit in the entire country.

Known for its geothermal activity, more than half of the earth’s geysers are located in the national park which straddles the borders of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. 

Old Faithful is one of the most popular things to see in Yellowstone National Park .

The active and predictable geyser erupts approximately 20 times each day.

Visitors to the park gather around to watch the geyser blast hot water and steam into the sky.

Although quite impressive, Old Faithful is just one of many must-see geothermal features found in the park.

One of the largest hot springs in the world, the Grand Prismatic Spring, is another popular attraction in Yellowstone.

Visitors can get an up-close view of the spring or take a short hike for a stunning overview of Grand Prismatic’s vibrant colors.  

Beyond all of its geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park also boasts beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, rivers, and more than 200 species of animals.

Bison, deer, moose, wolves, and even bears live in the park.

Because of all the wildlife in Yellowstone, visitors are strongly encouraged to use caution when hiking or camping and to carry bear spray to protect themselves in the event of an encounter.

Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Idaho is often overlooked when it comes to cool places to visit in the US, but the tiny town of Stanley serves as the gateway to an abundance of outdoor adventures in the stunning Sawtooth Mountain range and along the swift Salmon River.

Although it has a population of less than 100, Stanley is easily accessible in a 3-hour drive from the main airport in Boise or about a 1-hour drive if you’re coming from Sun Valley.

The best way to explore the Sawtooth Mountains is on one of the many hiking trails.

The hike to Alice Lake is a perfect introduction to the area, and you can either do a 12-mile day hike or backpack the longer Alice/Toxaway Loop over the course of a few days.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll discover gorgeous views of Alice Lake framed by the “Dragon’s Back” peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, including Idaho’s own “El Capitan.”

For fun on the water, you can go fishing along the Salmon River or swim in Redfish Lake.

When you need some rejuvenation after your adventures, you can reward yourself with great food and drinks at the Stanley Supper Club and take a dip in the hot springs at the Mountain Village Resort.

Once you head home, you’ll surely find yourself raving to your friends about this hidden gem of a mountain town – unless you want to keep the Sawtooth Mountains and Stanley a secret for yourself!

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

The Oregon Coast is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the USA, but for those who love moody, dramatic scenery, it is the best place to be.

Although the actual coast isn’t very long (338 or so miles, about a 7.5-hour drive without stopping), it makes for a great weekend or longer trip with added stops.

Starting at the north end, about 2 hours outside of Portland, the city of Astoria will serve as your jumping-off point with picturesque bridges and locations from The Goonies.

Heading south, take a pitstop at the cheese capital of the state  –  Tillamook , Oregon.

Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and gorge yourself on all things dairy before continuing on to stunning Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.

The highlight of the coast will be Yachats, Oregon, with incredible farm-to-table restaurants that are dedicated to sourcing local sustainable fish, meat, and produce providers.

On the southern end of the coast, you can find sand dunes in Florence, and natural rock arches among the cliffs in Brookings.

If your tolerance for rain is low, summer will be the best season to visit weather-wise, while winter and spring will have smaller crowds and lower prices.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the eastern United States, perfectly showcasing the beauty of the Maine coast.

Acadia has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as easy coastal access for kayaking and sailing. 

When visiting, plan to spend at least  2 days in Acadia National Park  so you can make the most of your time there.

One of the best things to do includes watching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, where you’ll get stunning views of the islands that dot the coast.

Drive Park Loop Road to enjoy some of the park’s most famous attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond (don’t forget to stop for popovers at Jordan Pond House!).

For hiking, choose a paved Carriage Road to take you down to one of the many picturesque ponds and lakes in the park.

Plan your visit in the fall to see the famous New England fall foliage in full display, or in the summer to enjoy long, sunny days perfect for hiking.

If you love the outdoors, add Acadia to your list of places to visit in the US – you won’t be disappointed.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

From Monica of This Rare Earth

Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California is an incredible destination in the United States. 

This desert ecosystem became a national park as recently as 1994, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen!

The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert meet in the middle of Joshua Tree National Park, which means that you will see two very different landscapes depending on which half of the park you are in.  

The Mojave Desert is home to the famous Joshua Tree – a tall and spindly yucca – as well as giant boulders popular with climbers and hikers. 

The majority of the park’s hiking trails are found in this region.

However,  while planning your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary , it would be a mistake to skip the Colorado Desert at the southern end of the park.  

The Colorado Desert is hotter, lower in elevation, and flatter, but holds gorgeous landscapes full of cacti and, at the right time of year, wildflowers. 

 In the summer months, avoid strenuous hikes or leave early in the morning as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.

Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing and well outside the bright light of the city.  

Joshua Tree is roughly 2.5 hours outside of Los Angeles.

From Chris of Called to Wander

Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, evoking adventure for those looking to travel to a truly unique place.

Because the state is massive, at over twice the size of Texas, you could spend as much or as little time exploring it as you have.

Many people take cruises through the Inside Passage and make stops in places like Ketchikan, Haines, and Seward.

Others fly into the main cities of Anchorage or Fairbanks and then rent vehicles and head off on their own adventures.

By far the best way to make the most of an Alaska vacation (though it requires a steep time commitment) is by driving to Alaska and spending as much time as you’d like wandering from one place to the next.

You can drive to the Arctic Ocean along the Dalton Highway, view North America’s largest mountain (Mt. Denali), or observe wildlife like caribou, grizzly bear, and moose.

Or, catch a flight out to a handful of the most remote national parks, or drive up to and hike out to massive, ancient glaciers.

If you enjoy fishing, go after halibut in Homer or salmon in the famous Russian River.

Regardless of what kind of travel you prefer, Alaska offers adventure for everyone and should definitely be on your travel bucket list!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Dan of Cabin Critic

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in the US, hosting over 10 million annual visitors, and it definitely belongs on your bucket list for the USA.

Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, the park has diverse animal life, plants, and natural attractions. There are tons to do and see. 

If you are feeling adventurous you can go zoom down zip lines, go white water rafting, or go mountain biking. 

For a more relaxed trip, you can go on hikes, see beautiful waterfalls, or simply go for a scenic drive.

Cades Cove, for example, is a broad valley surrounded by mountains you can drive through that is well known for providing the best opportunities for seeing wildlife like white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and more.

When you aren’t enjoying the outdoors there are numerous mountain towns to enjoy like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Asheville .

Stay in  one of the cabins with a view  of the mountainsides and check out the local attractions like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville . 

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

From Michele of Adventures Abound

Just a 2-hour drive from both Portland and Seattle rest the foothills of the towering volcano Mount Rainier.

Known to the Indigenous since time immemorial, Mount Tahoma is covered in unimaginable beauty and can be enjoyed year-round. 

Visit in the summertime for hiking through meadows strewn with wildflowers of every color, and in the fall for ripening berries and a better chance to catch the trails and lakes free of ice and snowmelt on a variety of great day hikes just outside of Seattle .

To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent in an established campground, stay in a rustic lodge in the national park, or backpack along the Wonderland trail that circumvents the park.

Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?

Just driving through Mount Rainier National Park will afford endless views of waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and even the chance to spot wildlife. 

For those thrill-seekers looking for a more challenging adventure, apply for a permit to climb more than 8,000 feet to the summit, but be aware this is only for experienced mountaineers.

Mount Rainier National Park can also be enjoyed in the winter when the park sees an average of 55 feet of snowfall or more.

Head to the Crystal Mountain gondola to catch a great view of the peak while skiing and snowboarding down the slopes, or pick one of many great locations to snowshoe and backcountry ski along the mountain.

Whatever the choice for season and activity, Mount Rainier National Park is sure to be full of memories and adventure in one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States.

Arches National Park, Utah

Home to over 2,000 naturally-occurring sandstone arches, Arches National Park in Utah is one of the most uniquely beautiful places in the USA.

Whether you’re hiking to the incredible Delicate Arch (so iconic that it’s featured on Utah’s license plates), wandering through the Devil’s Garden, or taking one of the shorter hikes to visit some of the most impressive arches in the park, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Even one day in Arches National Park is well worth your time, but more would certainly be better.

Arches National Park is also home to internationally-recognized dark skies and some of the best stargazing in the United States–in order to see the best of the park, be sure to visit at least once after dark!

And, while Arches National Park is easily one of the best places to vacation in the US in its own right, the nearby town of Moab also makes an excellent launching pad to visit Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.

Olympic National Park, Washington

From Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel

Not only does Olympic National Park cover nearly a million acres, but it is also the most biodiverse of all the US national parks.

It has it all, from glaciated mountains to breathtaking coastlines, crashing waterfalls, ancient rainforests, enchanting hot springs, and plentiful wildlife.

With such a treasure trove of natural landscapes, Olympic National Park is easily one of the best places to visit in the US.

Mountain lovers should budget plenty of time to hike the trails of Hurricane Ridge.

Here you will discover stunning views above the clouds, as well as an abundance of wildlife.

A great way to explore the park is on foot, particularly as much of the park is roadless. There are numerous multi-day hikes to choose from and it’s popular with backpackers.

The 17.4 miles Hoh River Trail is one of the most impressive, taking you through a flourishing rainforest to the base of Mount Olympus.

For coastal visitors, Second Beach is one of the best Olympic Park photography  locations and a perfect spot for sunset. 

However, with 73 miles of wild coastline, there’s plenty to explore!

There are endless options for the waterfall, forest, and nature lovers too.

In Sol Duc forest you can watch crystal water plunge into the lush greenery.

Or, you can choose to explore the vibrant green mosses of the Hoh Rainforest.  

No matter which part of Olympic National Park you visit, you will not be disappointed.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Stretching over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon in northwest Arizona is one of the largest–and most impressive–canyons on the planet, and one of the most popular places to visit in the USA!

Come to Grand Canyon National Park to admire views from the rim, hike into the canyon , watch the sunrise and sunset, and perhaps even hike all the way down to the Colorado River.

If you do want to hike to the river, though, be warned: doing so is a 2-day commitment!

Anyone taking a southwest road trip in the USA should consider adding a visit to the majestic Grand Canyon to their list: it’s truly a sight that you’ll never forget.

Death Valley National Park, California

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best places to visit in California is Death Valley National Park .

This park is filled with bright white salt flats, mountains splashed with pastel colors, and eerie rocks that move on their own.

This park is such a strange yet unique environment which makes it perfect for avid photographers.

One of the best things to do is to watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point. The views are glorious as the sun slowly sets on the unique colorful mountains.

Afterward, make sure to hike the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop Hike. The trailhead is right next to Zabriskie Point.

Another popular activity is visiting Badwater Basin. The basin stands at 282 feet below sea level and is filled with white salt.

This is a great spot to take pictures of the salt in contrast with the tall, dark mountains in the distance.

Nearby the salt flats, you can visit the devil’s golf course where spikey salt formations cover the ground.

The next outstanding area to visit is the Artists Drive. The mountain is sprinkled with pastel colors like yellow, pink, purple, and green.

It truly is a spectacular thing to see!

Rocky Mountain National Park

From Jyoti of Story At Every Corner

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in the US.

It’s also easily reachable from Denver, Colorado, which has many flights from across the country, making it fairly simple to access and one of the most popular places to vacation in America!

The best place to stay is in Estes Park , a quaint little tourist town in the mountains.

There are many small towns all around the park and many choices for all price points. 

The easiest way to visit RMNP park is by car.

You can then enjoy the park by making stops at each vista point and taking hikes from there.

Most stops have short and long hikes; easy and challenging hikes.

There is a hike for everyone, but there is also spectacular scenery right at the vista points, even without a hike.

Keep in mind that the popularity of Rocky Mountain National Park means that certain places, like Bear Lake Road, must be accessed via reservation.

The most popular road that goes across the park is the scenic Trail Ridge Road.

If you don’t have time to visit anything else, I recommend driving Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park to the town of Grand Lake.

Other major attractions include Sprague Lake and Bear Lake, to the south of the trail ridge road.

They offer absolutely stunning views and many wildlife viewing opportunities along with the drives. 

There is so much to do around Denver that RMNP can be part of a week-long itinerary visiting Colorado  or a trip just for RMNP. 

Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains along the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.

With crystal-clear water and plenty of activities in and out of the water, from hiking to SUP to swimming, there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the otherworldly beauty of Lake Tahoe .

To enjoy the views of the lake itself, summer is definitely the best time to visit–but winter has its charms, too, including plenty of skiing and incredible views of the lake framed by bright white snow.

From romantic couples’ retreats to fun getaways to Lake Tahoe with kids , all kinds of travelers will find something to love about Lake Tahoe.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located on Havasupai tribal lands not far from the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is simultaneously one of the most famous waterfalls in the USA and one of the hardest to access.

In order to visit Havasu Falls, you’ll need to secure an extremely competitive permit (they sell out months in advance) and complete a 10-mile hike in each direction.

You’ll also need to spend the night nearby, as it’s one of the permit requirements set out by the Havasupai people.

If you manage to swing both the logistics and the hike, though, the rewards are pretty spectacular.

Zion National Park, Utah

Home to some of what are quite possibly the best hikes in the country, Utah’s most-visited national park is absolutely one of the best places to see in the US.

Test your fear of heights (if you have one, that is) by hiking the incredible Angel’s Landing, and be rewarded with stunning views of Zion Canyon.

Venture deep into the Virgin River by hiking The Narrows , a hike that takes place literally in the river!

Seek out incredible views along Observation Point, the Canyon Overlook Trail , and the Watchman Trail.

Try to score a permit to hike the Subway, but if you can’t get one, don’t worry: there’s more to see in Zion National Park than you can cover in one vacation.

No matter how you spend your days at Zion National Park, there’s no doubt that you’ll be experiencing something worthy of a bucket list!

Texas Bluebonnet Trail

California’s magnificent wildflowers may be a bit better known outside of the country, but Texas’ phenomenal spread of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes that decorate the countryside each spring absolutely belong on anyone’s USA bucket list.

Whether you choose to visit the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis (not far from Dallas) or head to the Texas Hill Country , there is no shortage of places to admire bluebonnets in Texas.

Though the blooming times can of course vary a bit depending on the weather, late March and early April are generally the best times to experience the beauty of Texas’ bluebonnets.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

From Emily of Em’s on the Road

If you’re looking for unforgettable outdoor experiences without the price tag of popular destinations out west, then the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the place for you.

One reason the Upper Peninsula (or U.P.) is really unique is that it is an ideal place for adventure seekers all year long. 

In the warmer months, the U.P is a great beach destination in the Midwest thanks to its location with beachfront on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron.

In the fall, pack your hiking boots and tackle rocky hiking trails for colorful views you’d never expect in the Midwest.

With an unobstructed panoramic view of Lake Superior, the hike up  Sugar Loaf mountain in Marquette, Michigan  is one of the most popular in the region.

Thanks to some serious snowfall, there’s so much to do in the U.P. in the winter months.

There are cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling trails, downhill skiing, dog sledding, ice climbing, and more. 

Redwood National Forest

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Most visitors to the Golden State put   California’s national parks at the top of their itineraries because they are just so spectacular.

Redwood National and State Parks, in the northern part of the state, offer you the chance to stroll among giant redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees on the planet.

A group of five parks, Redwood National and State Parks feature not just the towering redwoods, but also epic coastal views, beautiful prairies filled with wildflowers in season, and the chance to see birds and wildlife.

Enjoy some of the scenic drives in the parks: Howland Hill Drive, Coastal Drive, and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway are all great choices.

Do some of the trails through the redwood groves to see the giant trees up close: the Big Tree Wayside Walk, the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, and Lady Bird Johnson Grove are all super scenic and relatively easy walks.

Gaze up at the trees, and enjoy the ferns and rhododendrons in the understory.

You can also go biking in the parks, and camp if you plan to stay for a few days.

Redwood National and State Parks are about 5.5 hours north of San Francisco by road, and you can visit all year, although you will have the best weather in the summer.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

From Jase of Roaming Vegans

A little-known gem in the north of Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands.

This island archipelago on Lake Superior looks like it belongs in Southeast Asia – not on the shoreline of a humble midwestern town.

However, its tucked-away location makes it all the more special for visitors.

While the lake freezes in winter, the islands come to life in summer with many activities like  sea kayaking , island hopping, and cliff jumping.

There is even an island home to one of the largest concentrations of bears in the Midwest–yes, bears!

The largest and most populated island is Madeline Island which makes for a great base to explore the nearby smaller islands.

Maui, Hawaii

From Jessica of I’m Jess Traveling

Famed for her elegant beaches,  world-class resorts , and next-level surf, Maui attracts visitors from all over the world. 

It’s no surprise that Maui was named Condé Nast Traveler’s best island in the U.S. for 23 consecutive years. 

There are countless things to see and do in Maui depending on your travel style. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, hike through a majestic bamboo forest ending at a 400-foot waterfall.  

Ocean lovers can test their skills at surfing or set sail on a sunset cruise.

There won’t be a shortage of exotic beaches to explore, no matter what your travel style is.

The adventure seekers have their pick among plunging the popular Road to Hana or watching the sunrise above the clouds at 10,000 feet inside Haleakala National Park. 

Whatever your draw, sunsets, beaches, luxury, or adventure, Maui has it all. 

Not only is Maui one of the best USA travel destinations but it’s one of the best places to take a tropical vacation in the world. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For adorable beach towns, sandy beaches, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever eaten in your life, head to the classic New England summer getaway of Cape Cod.

While you’re in Cape Cod (or as New Englanders say, “on the Cape”), hit one of the beautiful trails, visit a lighthouse or two, stick your toes in the sand, and eat lots and lots of lobster.

While Cape Cod’s swimming season is much shorter than popular beach destinations elsewhere in the country, it’s still well worth visiting.

Just be sure to plan ahead, because rental houses for summer on the Cape tend to book up before winter even wraps up!

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

Towering cliffs covered in dense jungle, dramatic waterfalls, small valleys, and views of the Pacific Ocean far below: welcome to the Nā Pali   Coast.

Without a doubt, the Nā Pali   Coast on Kauai is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the US.

Stretching 17 miles along the northwest portion of Kauai, the Nā Pali   Coast is best admired from air–usually via a helicopter tour–or from a boat on the sea.

Whichever option you choose, there’s no doubt that what is arguably the most beautiful corner of The Garden Island is bound to impress.

Florida Keys

For a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the USA, head to the Florida Keys!

Not only is the overseas drive from Miami to Key West one of the most scenic road trips in the USA, but the Keys themselves are also fantastic, home to beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, great food, and plenty of things to do.

While you’re there, be sure to hit the water via snorkeling or scuba diving, go for a swim, enjoy the famous Duval Street, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, and eat several slices of the region’s famous Key Lime pie!

Big Island, Hawaii

From Patricia of Travel Fam Life

The biggest of the Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) is a cool place to visit.

That starts with the weather: you’ll experience a lot of sunshine temperatures ranging from 85°- 90° in the summer months and 79°- 83 in the winter months, making it the perfect place to escape year-round. 

Hawaii is going to impress anyone that decides to visit.

The food is phenomenal and the choices are vast with plenty of history and cultural backgrounds.

The array of activities ranges from land to sea, from memorable ancient sites to beautiful folklore traditions. 

Some of the best things to do when taking a vacation to the Big Island include:

Zip Lining over waterfalls is an activity that can be very exhilarating if you are an adrenaline junkie.

This can also be enjoyed as a family activity, some companies allow kids as young as 5 years old to participate.

Volcano National Park is a breathtaking experience with its majestic hikes, thrilling ride down to the Chain of Craters, and some spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.

Papakolea or Green Sand Beach is one of 4 green sand beaches in the world.

The hike to this remote beach is very worthwhile, and the backdrop of the Hawaiian blue ocean that keeps you company makes the whole experience priceless.

And the list goes on, you can check it out here .

Outer Banks, North Carolina

With sandy beaches framed by sand dunes and rolling waves, the Outer Banks of North Carolina may not boast the bright water of the Florida Keys or the tropical beauty of Hawaii, but they are stunning all the same, and absolutely one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Come for the small beach towns, the history of the Wright Brothers taking their first flight here, the southern food, the historic forts, and the beautiful lighthouses. 

Come for the sunken pirate ships, for the wild horses that live on some of the islands, for the great places to swim, and for the great day trip opportunities.

If you’re looking for a classic, all-American vacation, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that make up the magnificent Outer Banks.

Oahu, Hawaii

From Sydney of A World in Reach

While visitors sometimes think of Oahu as just being a stopping point before visiting Hawaii’s other islands, the island has so much to offer than overcrowded beaches and tourist attractions.

Oahu is home to delicious food, beautiful scenery, and captivating history and is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.

Most visitors to Oahu will base themselves in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and largest city.

Guidebooks often recommend spending little time in Honolulu; however, this city is a melting pot of culture and is home to some of the best food on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal or some of the best Asian food in the United States, you can easily find a delicious meal in Honolulu.

Start your visit to Oahu off by exploring Honolulu, seeing the sights, and eating all of the delicious food.

Spend a day at Waikiki Beach – it might be touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.

Plan a visit to Pearl Harbor, where you can learn more about one of the darkest days in US History, and spend a morning hiking Diamond Head, one of the best hikes on Oahu .

Spend the rest of your time on the island exploring the North Shore, visiting the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and indulging in shave ice from Matsumoto.

Visit the beaches along the North Shore, where you might see some surfers catching waves, and hike through a botanical garden to a beautiful waterfall at Waimea Valley.

Napa Valley, California

Northern California’s wine country is definitely among the most beautiful–and for wine lovers, tastiest, places to visit in the USA.

With beautiful small towns, great boutiques, and rolling hills filled with vineyards that almost feel like being in Tuscany, both Napa Valley and Sonoma County have plenty to offer those looking for a laid-back, wine-filled getaway.

Door County, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Wisconsin often isn’t the first US state that people think of visiting, but from beautiful beaches to quirky attractions like House on the Rock , it has plenty to offer.

One of the most beautiful USA landmarks, Door Country, Wisconsin welcomes you on board with 300 miles of stretched shoreline and an awestruck sunset over the water, you could not leave without a witness. 

It allows your soul to breathe and relax. Wisconsin lets you explore aesthetic art galleries, and thousands of miles of stretched orchards, cherish the local brews and wines, paddle along the beautiful lakes, and devour the cheery pies.

Moreover, Green Bay, the capital of the region, is an underrated city that eventually captivates its visitors.

Though it’s a small city, the vibrant culture offers amazing  things to do in Green Bay .

Green Bay entertains visitors with prominent wineries. They produce their wines right up there which adds up to be a vital part of their culture. The landscape and heritage inspire the artists.

Walleye fishermen have the best water. It’s clean and portrays immense beauty. The botanical gardens and zoological parks play their role in charming travelers. 

Green Bay is an enchanting place that charms visitors with its intriguing features. 

Route 66 isn’t technically just one place, but as one of the most iconic travel destinations in the United States, I couldn’t bear to leave it off this USA bucket list!

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is America’s best-known road trip and the perfect place to find not-quite-forgotten slices of Americana, from quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch and the Catoosa Whale to beloved diners and 50s-era-inspired motels.

Route 66 passes through nine states in total (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California), and is a fantastic way to experience some of the best of what traveling in the US has to offer, all in one large trip.

Big cities, small towns, incredibly diverse landscapes, and beloved national parks are all featured heavily on Route 66.

Though it’s not technically on the route, even the Grand Canyon is accessible as an incredible side journey when road-tripping Route 66.

Whether you want to find a quirky campsite in Oklahoma or go hiking in Arizona, there’s no doubt that Route 66 is a classic US travel destination.

Big Sur, California

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the US and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Cruising along the winding Pacific Coast Highway with sweeping views of the Pacific is a magical experience.

This rugged area is located in Central California, about 5 hours north of Los Angeles.

If you aren’t able to find available lodging within Big Sur, check out nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey for more options, or try car camping with an epic view!

There are plenty of amazing  things to do in Big Sur .

I definitely recommend checking out the iconic Bixby Bridge (as seen in HBO’s Big Little Lies), admiring McWay Falls, hiking in Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park, having a drink with a view at Nepenthe and watching the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach!

There’s not much cell service in Big Sur, so be prepared for an off-the-grid weekend of relaxation and gorgeous views.

Page, Arizona

The small town of Page, Arizona may seem like no more than a small town worthy of a brief stop on a road trip at first blush–but this small, unassuming town is home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire southwest, and it definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Page is where you can find the famous Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend , the Instagram darling of the Colorado River (for very good reason).

Just outside of Page, you can also find the remarkable Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US, as well as Lake Powell–but to see the best of Lake Powell, you’ll actually need to cross into Utah!

That’s not hard to do, though: Page is located right next to the Arizona/Utah border.

With such an outsized list of fun attractions, there’s no doubt that Page is one of the coolest places to vacation in the USA.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US”

Great info. I know its great because I have been to most of the beaches you mention!

Thank you – will also look at your Italian small towns to see which ones we should visit and maybe retire to.

Thank you so much, Laura!

Retiring to Italy–sounds like quite the dream! 🙂

Absolutely amazing article, just loved it.

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21 Fun Cities In The US To Visit

The United States has its fair share of cities to visit. In fact, there are hundreds of them! That in itself is mind-boggling, especially when you’re trying to plan a trip to the most fun cities in the US to visit. It can be pretty tough to sort through the best cities that you’ll love, but one thing is for certain, there’s a whole heap of diverse, vibrant cities to explore, wander around and discover.

Now, that’s not to say that every one of the fun cities in the US will be you’re ‘cup of tea’ – but, I’m almost certain you’ll find a few you’ll love.

With that in mind, I wanted to share some of my favourites and most fun cities in the US to visit. Whether it’s for a weekend away, part of your road trip across America or a bigger trip.

Take a look at some of the most fun cities in the USA you should visit below. Have fun!

1.) San Fransisco

Home to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Fishermans Wharf (with stinky, but funny seals) and the hippie district around Haight Street, San Francisco is one of the most fun cities in the US to explore.

Once you’re here, hire a bike and cycle down to Sausalito for brunch or enjoy a takeout picnic from Tartine Bakery in Mission Park. Oh and head over to Alcatraz to brush up on the cities prison history, too.

You can easily spot the prison island from Fisherman’s Wharf and visit once you’ve bought your tickets. Just make sure to book in advance as the tours can fill up real fast.

Don’t forget to see the Painted Ladies (colourful houses), take in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Battery Spencer (you can see the Google Maps location here ) and see the winding Lombard Street.

If you’re looking for one of the best brunches of the city, pop over to Sweet Maple on Sutter Street. Make sure to try their Millionaire’s Bacon, too!

Read more: Best things to do whilst in San Fransisco

2.) Nashville

Perched in northern Tennessee, Nashville is really one of the fun cities in the US to visit. It’s America’s beating musical heart and a place that’s filled with creativity, yummy southern food and plenty of history.

Once here, make sure to gorge at the Loveless Cafe (about 20-minutes from the city centre), see the Ryman Auditorium and find the full-scale replica of the Greek Parthenon in the city itself.

Honestly, you’re going to be spoilt for choice. Just make sure to check out these tastiest restaurants and see some of the top things to do on your visit.

Read more on what to do in Nashville

3.) Los Angeles

Los Angeles  took a bit of time for me to like, the city is pretty expansive and can be quite hard to navigate with the traffic (which we regularly got stuck in). That being said, what I would recommend is that you think of LA as a cluster of smaller towns. Focus your energy on particular areas you think you’ll like and explore those.

Once in the city, pay a visit to see the Hollywood Sign, visit the Getty Center and watch a game at the Dodger Stadium. It was so much fun when I went! Alternatively, there are other cool spots that make LA one of the fun cities in the US to explore. Of course, you can visit Disneyland (technically Anaheim) and Universal Studios and Santa Monica Pier.

All that exploring, will no doubt work up an appetite, so pop over to Genwa for one of the tastiest Korean grills in California (based in Beverley Hills or Mid Wilshire). You’ll love it.

Read more: The best free things to do in LA

4.) New Orleans

New Orleans was such a surprise to me! It was so much more than I expected and easily up there as one of the fun cities in the US to explore.

It has a totally unique charm, buzz and culture that seems so different from other US cities; it’s totally gorgeous.

Once here, head over to Preservation Hall to listen to some beautiful Jazz, see Oak Alley Plantation, explore Frenchmen Street and visit Hermann-Grima’s House.

If all that exploring gets you hungry, head right over to Mother’s that’s a proper greasy spoon type of place but totally famous in the city. Just make sure to go hungry (their Po’Boys are huge) and be prepared for a little wait around lunch. It does get busy.

Read more: What to see in New Orleans

5.) Juneau

Perched in Alaska, Juneau is nestled on the coast near Mt Roberts (a whopper, if you see it). Now, the thing that makes Juneau one of the fun cities in the US is its easy access to nature.

Once here, make sure to explore the Mendenhall Glacier, head out whale watching to see the humpbacks and head out on a hike overlooking the city on the Mount Roberts Trail.

After a day of adventuring, pop into Tracy’s King Crab Shack where you can fill your boots with the tastiest local crab. I swear, you’ll have to roll yourself out of here!

6.) Washington DC

Washington D.C is the capital of the United States with places like the White House, Congress and government being key features of the city. Now, don’t let that put you off, Washington really is one of the fun cities in the US to explore, especially their museum district and different neighbourhoods.

Once here, make sure to explore Georgetown is full of cool eating spots like Clyde’s that’s pretty lively and even has some live bands in the evenings.

Don’t forget to explore the world-class museums in Washington DC, too. Make sure to pop in; United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Smithsonian, the National Gallery of Art, the Musem of African-American culture and the Renwick Gallery. You can literally spend weeks exploring all the museums!

Read more: What to do in Washington DC

7.) Seattle

Seattle is one of those west coast cities that I always love visiting.

Now, being a north-west coast city, the weather can be slightly unpredictable but don’t let that put a dampener on your trip, it’s easily one of the fun cities in the US to explore whatever the weather may throw!

Once here, make sure to pop over to Pike Place Market to grab some chowder (at Pike Place Chowder) and see the stunning Dale Chihuly Gardens that’s right next door to the Space Needle. Oh, and take the boat over to Bainbridge Island… It’s totally gorgeous.

For coffee, obviously Seattle is home to Starbucks, but if you fancy a smaller establishment, pop over to Elm Coffee Roasters, a quirky independent coffee house for one of the best brews.

Read more on what to do in Seattle

8.) Fort Lauderdale

Only around 45-minutes from Miami, Fort Lauderdale is a little quieter than it’s big brother but still one of the fun cities in the US to explore.

After all, it’s not the size of the city that makes it fun.

Once here, pop over to explore the history of  Bonnet House , chillout on Las Olas Beach and take the water taxi through the city canals.

Afterwards, head over to  Louie Bossi’s for some of the best Italian food we had in Fort Lauderdale. Just remember, it does get pretty busy here, so book your table in advance.

Read more: What to do in Fort Lauderdale

9.) San Antonio

San Antonio is a gorgeous Texan city that’s nestled in the southern-central area of this vast state.

Once here, make sure to check out the Alamo, with all its history and significance, wander across the River Walk (which we found is a great spot for lunch) and visit Mission San Jose.

After all, that history, pop over to Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling for a hearty brew and finish off your day at Pollos Asados Los Nortenos.

They serve up some of the best Mexican food in the city.

Read more: Best things to do in San Antonio

10.) Missoula

Missoula is a pretty small city in western Montana , but don’t let that fool you! It’s certainly one of the fun cities in the US to explore, especially if you’re a nature lover too. It’s the perfect city to use as a base whilst exploring the wider region and areas like Lolo and Flathead National Forest.

Best of all, Missoula is an all-season city, there are loads of skiing and winter sports to do in the winter but the so many trails and biking routes to explore in Summer. You’ll love it

Once here, make sure to explore Garnet Ghost Town, visit the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and dine at Plonk . They have the tastiest food and epic wine reserves.

11.) Memphis

Around a 2-3 hour drive from Nashville, Memphis is another one of Tennessee’s cities that are filled to the brim with stuff to do. Now, there are loads of things that make Memphis one of the most fun cities in the US to visit, with my favourite being the Peabody Rooftop Parties .

Usually hosted over the summer, head to the Peabody Hotel and watch the sunset with southern cocktails, live music and one of the coolest dance floors in the city. It’s so much fun.

After all that partying, head over to Graceland to explore the home of Elvis, gorge at the Beauty Shop Cafe and visit the Lorraine Hotel . Afterwards, pop over to Gus’s Fried Chicken; it’s so delicious.

Read more: Very best things to do in Memphis

12.) Honolulu

Mountainous backdrops, rolling waves and some pretty epic beaches make up the island of Oahu – with the capital city, Honolulu being one of the most fun cities in the US to spend some time.

Once here, visit Pearl Harbour, head to the Lyon Arboretum to explore the botanical gardens and head down to the local farmers market to enjoy lunch on the go. It also goes without saying that you should book a crafty surf lesson on Waikiki Beach.

Also, don’t forget to visit the Diamon Head State Monument, hike to Manoa Falls and gorge at  South Shore Grill . They serve up the best fish tacos in all of Oahu!

13.) San Jose

Just shy of San Francisco, San Jose is one of the fun cities in the US that can often be overlooked due to its bigger neighbour.

Once here, make sure to hike around the Los Gatos Creek Trail, have a tipple at the J. Lohr Vineyards and explore the Willow Glen neighbourhood (which is petty quaint).

Once here, make sure to pop in the cute vintage shops and little antique stalls that line the street.

Also, if you’re hankering for a sweet treat, pop into Willow Glen Sweet Shoppe that’s like a Willy Wonka world of sugar.

Read more: Best things to do in San Jose

14.) Boston

The East Coast city of Boston is one of the oldest and up there as one of the fun cities in the US to explore. We spent about 5 days exploring Boston and to be honest, we could have done with longer.

Once you arrive, make sure to take a stroll across the Freedom Trail and see the historical sites along the way. Afterwards, pop over to the quaint Back Bay neighbourhood for a spot of antique shopping and visit the Museum of Fine Arts for some culture.

If you’re feeling peckish, head over to  Mike & Patty’s , they conjure up some of the best deep-filled sandwiches in the city!

Once here, make sure to try their ‘baller’ sandwich… it’s so good!

Read more on what to do in Boston, here

15.) New York City

NYC has to be one of the most fun cities in the US to visit! After all, a global city like the Big Apple has literally everything you could ever want (or find).

Once here, check out the views (at sunset) from the Top of the Rock ,  explore the secret spots in NYC (that are hidden all across the city) and gorge on New York’s best doughnuts !

Now, there are far too many things to mention in one post on all the fun things to do in NYC, but we’ve created a few posts that’ll hopefully get you on your way to explore some of the best parts of Manhattan and the surrounding districts .

16.) Dallas

Think Dallas , and you automatically think of beer, cowboys and cheerleaders (well, for me at least). But, Dallas has a whole heap more to offer than just these and it easily ranks as one of the most fun cities in the US to enjoy.

Once here, make sure to explore the Dallas Botanical Gardens, take a history class on J.F.K at the Sixth Floor Museum and for your culture fix, check out local art at the Valley House Gallery.

If you’re looking for something more yummy, pop into  Lockhart Smokehouse (on West Davis) – it’s the kinda spot where you eat with your hands and leave with the fullest tummy!

Read more: Best things to do in Dallas

17.) Burlington 

Burlington, in Vermont , is famously known for being home to a whole host of breweries. This alone makes it one of the most fun cities in the US to visit; provided you’re of legal age and love a good beer.

Not to worry if not, there’s so much more to Burlington than just beers. Once here, make sure to explore the Farmer’s Market, where you can gorge right from the stalls.

Oh, and don’t forget to explore North Flynn Park and gorge at the Penny Cluse Cafe (which has the most delicious braised beef tacos and Vermont Apple Cider).

Read more: Best places to visit in Vermont

Look, Miami isn’t just about Spring Break partying or drinking until the wee hours. It’s there if you want it, but there are so many fun things to do in the city that don’t just involve the nightlife.

Once here, make sure to explore South Beach, Ocean Drive, the Vizcaya Museum and the colourful neighbourhood of Wynwood too.

That being said, if you’ve got some more time, pop over to the Little Havana neighbourhood for some of the best live music at the Ball & Chain .

Read more: Fun things to do in Miami

19.) Las Vegas

It’s funny, Las Vegas seems to be either loved or loathed. It’s one of those cities that can divide opinions quite easily. Yes, it can be tacky, larger than life and totally extra, but don’t let that put you off.

Take Las Vegas for what it is and I promise you’ll find it one of the fun cities in the US to experience.

Once here, make sure to explore the strip itself, ride the rollercoaster on the Stratosphere Tower and try your hand at the slots too.

That being said, Las Vegas doesn’t have to be just about gambling or the famous Las Vegas Strip . Head out of the city to explore the nearby Grand Canyon , the Hoover Dam and Death Valley. Each of these areas is a few hours from the city itself and easy to visit.

We stayed at the Bellagio whilst here and totally loved it! They have an epic Dale Chihuly art piece in the lobby that you shouldn’t miss.

Read more: Best things to do in Las Vegas

20.) Portland

Portland , to me, feels really creative and is one of the more fun cities in the US to visit.

Once here, make sure to explore Washington Park, explore the Grotto and visit Pittock Mansion. If those don’t immediately take your fancy, pop out of the city to explore Share Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge.

Just remember to pack your hiking shoes.

Read more: Best things to do in Portland

21.) Pensacola

Pensacola might not immediately spring out as one of the fun cities in the US to explore, but don’t be fooled… you’ll have an epic time here.

Once you’ve arrived, make sure to spend some time on the beautiful white sandy beaches, see Santa Rosa Island and explore Fort Barrancas. Oh, and don’t forget to spot the massive beach ball that towers over the coastline.

The city and shoreline definitely worth a visit if you’re travelling between Florida and New Orleans (like we did) on your American road trip.

Read More: Best things to do in Pensacola, Florida

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This Is the Most Fun City in the U.S., According to Research

Check out WalletHub's rankings of the most fun cities in America.

Life should be one big party, and that’s exactly why you may want to consider moving to (or at least visiting) Las Vegas ASAP. 

To help Americans have a little more fun, the team at WalletHub analyzed data comparing 180 cities around the U.S. across 65 key metrics, including the number of fitness centers per capita, the cost of going to the movies, the average opening hours of area breweries, diversity of restaurants, and number of attractions. All these metrics fell into three dimensions: entertainment and recreation, nightlife and parties, and costs.

As for how WalletHub defined a “fun place,” it kept things simple. “We define such a place as one that offers a little bit of everything for everyone — except maybe people seeking the most extreme thrills. In a city with enough variety, you won’t have to compromise with your friends, family, or even yourself about the next fun activity to do alone or together.” 

Busà Photography/Getty Images

After crunching the numbers, Las Vegas came out as the No. 1 city for fun. It took the No. 1 spot in both the entertainment and recreation ranking and in nightlife and parties. 

“Sin City is known for partying, and it’s one of the only cities in our study where public drinking is allowed in most or all places – whether that’s a plus or not will depend on your personality, though,” the research team noted in its findings. “When it comes to activities, Vegas unsurprisingly has the largest number of casinos in the country. But it’s also renowned for its performers, especially when it comes to music. The city has a very high number of music festivals and music venues relative to others.” 

Additionally, unsurprising to anyone who’s spent a weekend in Vegas, it ranked much lower (78th) in cost. “Las Vegas certainly isn’t the cheapest city to have fun in, but it’s at least in the middle of the pack when it comes to the costs of activities and food,” the WalletHub team added. 

WalletHub named Orlando as its second-most fun city, likely due to its number of theme parks, followed by Miami, Atlanta, and San Francisco rounding out the top five most fun spots. 

While all of the top five destinations are well-known, Tyra Burton, a senior lecturer of marketing at Kennesaw State University, shared that it’s still a good idea to look for relatively known places for fun too. 

“Don’t be afraid to try an off-the-beaten-path destination or something different. Cartersville, Georgia, may not have a zoo or an aquarium like downtown Atlanta, but they have award-winning science, car, art, and history museums that offer combo tickets as well as special events,” Burton said. “Combined with a fun downtown area and an easy drive to other tourist attractions or larger cities, off-the-beaten-path destinations can provide unique and lower-cost experiences.” 

See where your favorite city ranks for fun at wallethub.com . 

Wealth of Geeks

Ranked: The 24 Cities Having the Most Fun in the US

Posted: April 12, 2024 | Last updated: April 12, 2024

Fun is subjective. One person might need the adrenaline spike of skydiving to wet their whistle, while another finds unbridled pleasure in hitting the local dive tavern to catch the game. This variance is why WalletHub researchers took a comprehensive approach to gauge the American cities having the most fun.

From the number of gyms to the variety of eateries and pubs and the acreage of local parkland, we have a complete picture of the municipalities prioritizing quality of life.

1. Las Vegas, NV

Vegas is nothing if not fun, which is why it takes the number one spot in the study. Is it the sort of fun that will leave you without a dime to your name? Potentially, if you’re not careful. The fact that visitors spent nearly $45 billion in Vegas in 2022  speaks to the endorphin-generating allure of slot machines, blackjack tables, sportsbooks, and Cirque du Soleil.

Las Vegas is the city most reliant on sin — I mean, fun — for survival. 

2. Orlando, FL

Floridian  author Carl Hiaasen referred to Disney as “Team Rodent,”  lamenting that an artificial world free of sadness or strife is no fun. Sorry, Carl, but Disney’s presence in Orlando  generated more than $40 billion in economic impact in 2022 , proving that tons of Americans consider Disney utterly fun.

Never mind that a five-day trip to the happiest place on Earth will cost you nearly $6,500 . You can’t put a price tag on two-hour-long lines, sweltering heat, and hugging destitute adult men in beat-up costumes.

3. Miami, FL

Miami is another polarizing city. You either love the hustle and bustle of South Beach and the vibrant night club scene, or you avoid it like the plague. Yet, Miami has far more to offer than the crowded sand and even more crowded clubs. The  Miami Design District, New World Symphony, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden , and glut of authentic Cuban cuisine are just a taste of why Miami residents stay young and fun.

“Party in the city where the heat is on, all night, on the beach till the break of dawn. Welcome to Miami, Bienvenidos a Miami.” – Will Smith, indeed.

4. Atlanta, GA

Don’t let the road rage-inducing Atlanta traffic scare you. Hot-lanta, as the kids call it, offers everything you could want in a modern city. With multiple professional sports teams, world-class restaurants, a top-notch aquarium, a vibrant after-hours scene, and ample parkland, Atlanta will keep you busy.

The city’s museum scene might be its most underrated feature, and  the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta  may be the coolest of them all.

5. San Francisco, CA

Those who visited San Francisco in the 70s, 80s, 90s, or even the early 2000s will tell you there’s no place like the City by the Bay. From the Alcatraz tour to the shops of Fisherman Wharf, San Francisco has no shortage of iconic sights and experiences. Riding the cable cars, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge with your sunroof wide open, and walking the rolling hills to build those calf muscles will be experiences visitors and residents cherish indefinitely.

Has the city fallen on hard times? No doubt. Still, if you can brave the  luggage thieves  and human waste, San Francisco still offers plenty of fun.

6. New Orleans, LA

Playwright Tennessee Williams once said : “America has only three cities: New York, San Francisco, and New Orleans. Everywhere else is Cleveland.” Williams must have danced the Second Line at Mardi Gras, devoured gumbo at Commander’s Palace, jammed out at Tipitina’s, and cast spells with the city’s many voodoo priests.

New Orleans may not be well-run, particularly safe, or even sanitary (looking at you, Bourbon Street). Beyond a doubt, though, New Orleans is fun.

7. Austin, TX

Remember that these rankings are formulated with quantity in mind. The number of restaurants, parks, events, and attractions boost a city’s score. This helps Austin’s case, as it is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country.

Events like South by Southwest, an up-and-coming comedy scene, and an abundance of parks ( Pease Park and Butler Metro Park receive high marks from locals ) are among the many fun-generating attractions in ATX.

8. Chicago, IL

Chicago catches a lot of flack for its crime, and rightfully so. However, a city doesn’t become a Great American City without offering a beef-load of fun.  The World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893  set Chicago (the “White City”) on a trajectory to become a modern American powerhouse.  Feast on renowned cuisine like Alinea  and live the everyman’s dream of  building Cup Snakes at Wrigley Field’s outfield bleachers —all in one city.

Whether you have refined tastes or can enjoy a brat and brew, Chicago has something for you.

9. Honolulu, HI

The  cost of living in Honolulu is 81% higher than the national average , but can you really put a price on fun? When you’re not visiting America’s only royal palace, you might sip a mai tai (or five) on the beach, check out local wildlife at the Honolulu Zoo, gaze at the bobbing lights of  the Lantern Floating Festival , or simply take a drive around the pristine island.

Plus, you get to say “aloha” instead of hello, meaning even greetings are more fun in Honolulu.

10. New York, NY

No American city can match the variety of cuisine, clubs, museums, or life force of New York City. Though many could not handle the daily subway rides, rats, or occasional garbage pileups that come with life in the big city, few people leave their NYC vacation saying, “That was boring.”

New York City may be ungodly expensive, overwhelming, and impractical for many, but it’s nothing if not fun.

11. Cincinnati, OH

Yes, you read that right. Cincinatti’s ranking is bolstered by a high score in “Entertainment and Recreation,” and one Cincy tourism site boldly  claims that “fun is in our DNA.”  That site highlights the Kings Island theme park (home of the world’s longest wooden rollercoaster, The Beast), Coney Island waterpark, the Cincinnati Zoo, The American Sign Museum (put on your neon-blocking shades), and a bustling downtown center.

Sleep on Cincinnati at your own peril.

12. Denver, CO

Denver’s early-mover status in the legalization space makes it an easy target for pot shots (pun intended). Yet, it’s not just the recreational legislation that makes recreation in Denver so fun. Whether you’re shredding powder in a nearby resort, watching the Rockies, Broncos, or Nuggets in the crisp mountain air, hiking, cycling, kayaking, or  dining on bison tacos and Mexican hamburgers , there’s no shortage of fun in the Mile High City.

No, those aren’t exhaust fumes you’re smelling.

13. Portland, OR

Portland isn’t all ANTIFA rallies and anarchist conferences. Seasoned travelers  recommend visiting the City of Roses  for the Portland food tour, Columbia River gorge waterfalls, hike to “Witch’s Castle,” and the Willamette Valley wineries.

So long as you avoid protest hotspots, you should have a great time in P-Town.

14. St. Louis, MO

We’re trusting in the rankings here, guys. St. Louis is not a growing city, but the researchers vow that it is among the top 15 most fun cities in the United States.

We can only guess that they considered bustling  neighborhoods like The Grove , the wholesome atmosphere at Blues and Cardinals games, Six Flags St. Louis, and the city’s renowned brewery infrastructure when formulating the rankings.

15. Washington, DC

There’s nothing more fun than filibusters, Senate Judiciary Committees, and budget committees, apparently. In all seriousness, you don’t have to be a political buff or House of Cards fan to enjoy our nation’s capital. You can do the memorial circuit and political tours, and you might have fun doing it. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington National Cathedral, and National Gallery of Art should also be on your to-do list.

With a host of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to choose from, you can also get down after hours like the rebellious Founding Fathers would have wanted you to.

16. San Diego, CA

Taco trucks, shred-worthy waves, endless sunshine, and a young, active, attractive population make San Diego an easy choice.  The birthplace of the California burrito , San Diego has one of the most beloved baseball stadiums in America. You could also take a 4×4 to the dunes and burn more sand than a glass maker.

If  Wyatt Earp could have fun in San Diego , so can you.

17. Tampa, FL

Tampa is a sun-soaked destination for those seeking less hustle and bustle than Miami but more hustle and bustle than Jacksonville. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, those who live in Tampa have easy access to beaches, boats, and bucketloads of fresh seafood. Tampa also has no shortage of nightclubs, beach-themed bars, comedy clubs, and sporting events to keep life fresh.

Tampa was an uncivilized scrubland before  Vicente Martinez Ybor moved his cigar-rolling empire from the Keys . A city built on cigars should certainly know how to celebrate. The city also knows how to eat as the purported birthplace of the Cuban sandwich.

18. Fort Lauderdale, FL

There’s a reason  more than 90,000 New Yorkers moved to Florida in 2022 . Cold-weather ex-pats know that sun is fun, as do residents of Fort Lauderdale. Located just North of Miami via Interstate 95, Fort Lauderdale  hosts a parade of sea turtles every year , making it a mecca for nature lovers.

Fort Lauderdale also hosted  the first Spring Break in the 1930s when the Colgate University swim team migrated south for spring training. Half a century later, 350,000 students per year stumble their way to Fort Lauderdale’s all-inclusive resorts every spring. While MTV Spring Break might not be your definition of fun, you were young once…

19. Houston, TX

The sheer abundance of people in the Houston metro area (the  fourth most populous city in the country ) guarantees there’s something fun going on at all times. Looking for an adrenaline rush? Try the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Ballgame? Minute Maid Park and NRG Stadium offer pro baseball and football, respectively.

With renowned chefs operating throughout Houston ( including at least one Top Chef alumna ), you’ll find that Houston offers far more than its lifeless highways might first suggest.

20. Los Angeles, CA

There is fun, then there is practical. You should not interpret the continued exodus of residents from California (including Los Angeles) as an indictment of California’s capacity to provide fun. When California experienced  its first-ever year-long population loss in 2021 , it was an indictment of California’s affordability—not its enjoyability.

Surfing, sunshine, the Hollywood Bowl, Lakers games, Beverly Hills driving tours, and some of the nation’s finest eateries keep Angelenos thoroughly entertained. If you’re trying to take your party game up a notch, book a room at the Chateau Marmont.

21. Philadelphia, PA

The City of Brotherly Love is a hardscrabble metropolis where residents  have been known to boo Santa Claus . Philly has a softer, lighter side, even if you won’t find it at an Eagles game. You’ll find Philadelphians kicking it at one of the many authentic Philly cheesesteak-peddling haunts, Reading Terminal Market (you have to try  the roast pork sandwiches at DiNic’s ), and the expertly coiffed shrubbery of Longwood Gardens. 

Though Philly has its warts (Kensington), loyal residents call it fun.

22. Seattle, WA

We’re seeing a trend where large cities tend to rank high on the fun meter. Seattle ranked near the top ten in the categories of Entertainment and Recreation and Nightlife and Parties. Despite Nirvana’s glum soundtrack for Seattle, Pike Place Market, Bill Speidel’s Underground Tour  (they don’t just have tunnels in New York City), Laughs Comedy Club, and  character-rich bars like Little Tin Goods & Apothecary Cabinet  offer plenty to do in this Northwestern gem. 

So long as you avoid CHAZ, you can have a great time in Emerald City.

23. Salt Lake City, UT

In addition to ample bicycle riding (and door knocking), Salt Lake City is ideally positioned for nature lovers. Residents take advantage of world-class ski resorts , hiking trails that Lewis and Clark would be proud of, and  mountain bike trails  suited to both beginners and BMX-ers.

Despite a prominent teetotaling Mormon population, Salt Lake City also has a surprisingly bumpin’ nightlife scene. Popstar Post Malone  says “he’s not leaving Utah,”  and his defiance is understandable— Utah is neither boring nor ugly.

24. Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburghers know that their city is a hidden gem. The city  invented the Ferris wheel , for Roberto Clemente’s sake! Any city that invents the Ferris wheel is a city that can party.

The ‘Burgh also has  enough museums to satiate the most learned fine arts professor  (the Andy Warhol Museum is a standout), beloved athletic venues positioned brilliantly upon the shores of the Allegheny River, and  many free events and festivals  for hardworking, penny-pinching residents and visitors.

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Sights of Elektrostal, Moscow region

Table of contents:, history of the city, park of culture and leisure, historical and art museum, october cultural center, kristall ice palace, memorial complex, museum and exhibition complex.

2024 Author : Harold Hamphrey | [email protected] . Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

In the Moscow region there is a small cozy town Elektrostal. Its sights for the most part have no historical value due to the fact that the city has a relatively small history. But for a visiting tourist or city dweller, they will be of interest. There is something to see, where to go to have an exciting leisure time.

Today the population of the city is 158 thousand people. Until the beginning of the 20th century there were several small workers' settlements here. After the opening of the electrometallurgical and equipment factories, the place began to be called the natural boundary of Calm. The construction of the railway made this settlement accessible, and workers and families flocked here to earn money. In 1925, the station was named Elektrostal, and the rapid increase in population allowed the village to receive the status of a city.

The founder of the city is a prominent Russian industrialist Nikolai Vtorov. It was he who opened the plant here, creating, in fact, a city-forming enterprise that is still operating. In Soviet times, it was a closed facility, and it was not easy to get to work here.

Today Elektrostal is a promising industrial city with a great future and a heroic past. It bears the proud name "City of Military and Labor Glory".

You can learn about the sights of Elektrostal with descriptions and photos here. There are places for walking, outdoor activities and cultural development.

Those who come to the city by train are met by a monument to the metallurgist. It was installed in November 2017 for the 100th anniversary of the Elektrostal plant. The attraction is made in the style of constructivism. The monument quickly won the love of the townspeople, because this city is supported by ordinary workers.

Elektrost altsy and the founding father of the plant, Nikolai Vtorov, are honored. In 2002, a monument was opened in honor of him, which became a landmark of the city of Elektrostal. The bronze sculpture is installed on the site where once stood a monument to the leader of the world proletariat, V. I. Lenin. Times change, characters change. Today, the plant, founded a century ago, is the largest in Russia. Vtorov himself, whose fortune was estimated at 60 million rubles in gold, according to Forbes magazine, was the owner of the largest capital at the beginning of the century. He was a banker, an industrialist, an entrepreneur, a man of action.

The monument was erected byinitiative of the townspeople who wished to perpetuate the monument to the great man.

One of the popular places for spending weekends and evenings among citizens and guests of the city is the Park of Culture and Leisure. Here you can ride attractions for children and adults, play slot machines, rollerblade or bike. The park is divided into two zones. Fans of unhurried walks in the fresh air make a promenade on the Quiet Alley, and those who prefer outdoor activities flock to the Entertainment Alley. The park has a summer stage, where concerts and cafes are regularly held.

Until 1999, there was no central museum among the attractions of Elektrostal in the Moscow Region. The expositions were exhibited in schools, the house of culture, in factory museums. The city was closed, so there was no large influx of tourists and visitors. The appearance of the historical and art museum made it possible for residents and guests of the city to learn a lot of useful information about their native land, the formation of the production process, and the difficult years of the war. The exposition consists of paintings by local artists, historical artifacts, household items, documents, books and much more. The collection is updated regularly. It also hosts outdoor exhibitions, which are always popular with the townspeople.

One of the main attractions of Elektrostal, the photo of which is available to almost every resident or visitor, is the Main Alley. On herpassers-by like to stroll along shady paths, townspeople rest by the fountain after a hard shift at the plant. Flower beds are the decoration of the alley. In 2006, a flower festival was held here for the first time, which has become traditional. Each enterprise of the city and private individuals give residents a real composition of fresh flowers, which pleases with bright colors all summer long. A riot of colors, aromas and a flight of fantasy reigns here. Walking through the park, you can see Snow White with a basket, a bright well, a multi-tiered cake made from fresh flowers, hearts of lovers or a fabulous house. It is almost impossible not to take a photo against the background of these compositions.

There is a cultural center in the city. It hosts performances by local creative teams and visiting stars, performances and circus performances.

In 1971, the ice palace "Crystal" was opened in the city. Almost immediately, a children's and youth hockey team was organized, which gained sports fame. This is the home sports arena for the Elektrostal hockey team. Matches of different levels are held on the ice.

There are sections for children who go in for hockey or figure skating. Citizens come here with their families to cheer for their favorite team or go ice skating.

Elektrostal is a city with a heroic past. During the war years, more than 12 thousand citizens came to the recruiting station and went to the front to defend their homeland. Almost 4 thousand of them did not return from the battle. To these heroesdedicated to the memorial complex with the inextinguishable Eternal Flame, opened in 1968

But the electricians took part in the war in Afghanistan and Chechnya. By decision of the city authorities, their memory is also immortalized in the memorial complex.

It has become a good tradition for newlyweds to lay flowers at this monument.

In 1999, a museum and exhibition complex was opened in the city, where, in addition to the exhibition hall, there are numerous circles for children, classes for young people, and a creative workshop. Various festivals, exhibitions, city holidays and other events are held within the walls and on the territory of the complex, which attract many spectators.

Listing the sights of Elektrostal, it is impossible not to mention the temples. There are several of them in the city: the church of St. John of Kronstadt, St. Andrew's Church, the hospital church of St. Panteleimon. Another new church is being built. In appearance, the temples look ancient, monumental, in the Novgorod style. But they were all built at the end of the 20th century.

Let there be no ancient artifacts among the sights of Elektrostal. But on the other hand, all of them are connected with the history of the city, with everyday work and military exploits of ordinary residents.

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Moscow metro to be more tourist-friendly

A new floor sign system at the Moscow metro's Pushkinskaya station. Source: Vladimir Pesnya / RIA Novosti

For many years now, Moscow has lagged behind St. Petersburg when it comes to making life easy for tourists, especially where getting around the city is concerned. Whereas the northern capital installed English-language maps, signs and information points throughout its subway system in the late 2000s, the Russian capital’s metro remained a serious challenge for foreign visitors to navigate.

Recent visitors to Moscow may have noticed some signs that change is afoot, however. In many stations of the Moscow subway, signs have appeared on the floor – with large lettering in Russian and English – indicating the direction to follow in order to change lines. Previously, foreign visitors using the Moscow metro had to rely solely upon deciphering the Russian-language signs hanging from the ceilings.

Student volunteers help tourists find their way in Moscow

However, this new solution has a significant drawback. “The floor navigation is visible only to a small stream of people – fewer than three people per meter. During peak hours, this navigation will simply not be noticed,” said Konstantin Trofimenko, Director of the Center for Urban Transportation Studies.

One of the biggest problems for tourists in the Russian capital remains the absence of English translations of the names of subway stations in the station vestibules and on platforms. The Department of Transportation in Moscow has not commented yet as to when this problem will be solved. However, Latin transliterations of station names can already be found in the subway cars themselves.

Finding the right exit

At four of the central stations – Okhotny Ryad, Teatralnaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Lubyanka and Kuznetsky Most – the city authorities have now installed colorful stands at the exits with schematic diagrams of the station’s concourse and surrounding area, which provide information about the main attractions and infrastructural facilities.

The schematic diagrams are the work of British specialists from the City ID and Billings Jackson Design firms, who have already implemented successful projects in New York and London.

According to Alexei Novichkov, expert at the Design Laboratory at the Higher School of Economics, the design of these information booths raises no objections: The color solutions, font, layout and icons are consistent with international standards.

However, the stands do have some shortcomings. “Many questions are raised about the fact that the developers of these maps did not apply orientation to the north, and have provided layouts of the surrounding areas with respect to the exits,” says Novichkov. “A system like that is used for road navigators, but most of the ‘paper’ guides and maps are oriented strictly to north. The subway map is also oriented to north, so people may become confused.”

Muscovites and foreign visitors are generally positive about these navigation elements, with most of them citing the numbered exits from the subway as the most useful feature.

The fact is that many Moscow subway stations have several exits. One of the busiest central stations of the Moscow subway in particular, Kitay-Gorod, has more than a dozen exits. Previously, these exits were differentiated from each other only with signs in Russian referring to the names of streets and places of interest to which they led – making it easy for tourists and those with poor navigation skills to get confused.

Now, when making an appointment to meet a friend, instead of struggling to find the right spot when they tell you: “I'll meet you at the exit to Solyanka Street,” you can just propose to meet under a specific exit number.

“I’ve lived in Moscow for seven years,” says Angelika, a designer from Voronezh, “but I still don’t always know where to go to find the place I need, so the new schematic diagrams will be very useful. Previously, some subway stations had maps, but not with so much detail.”

Teething problems

Foreigners, meanwhile, focus their attention on other elements. “It is good that the new information boards have QR-codes, which can be ‘read’ by smartphones,” says Florentina, a writer from Vienna. But there are also shortcomings. “The English font of the information on posters and in the captions to theaters and museums is too small – you have to come very close to see it well,” she says.

Pleasant encounters on the streets of Moscow

Florentina was also dissatisfied with the fact that such posters are not provided at all subway stations: “When I was trying to find Tsaritsyno Park (a museum and reserve in the south of Moscow) at a subway station with the same name, it turned out to be quite difficult,” she says.

“There are no maps with landmarks for other areas, such as those already in the city center. There were no clear pointers in the English language, and the passers-by I met did not speak in English, so they could not help me,” she adds.

Officials say that the navigation system is gradually being redeveloped and improved. According to Darya Chuvasheva, a press representative for the Department of Transport of Moscow, the introduction of a unified navigation system will take place in stages.

“By the end of 2014, the system will first appear on the first subway stations on the Circle Line. By the end of 2015, we plan to install the system at all major stopping points, subway stations and transport interchange hubs,” says Chuvasheva.

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'Dora the Explorer' takes kids on new — and bilingual — adventures

“Dora the Explorer” has been taking young viewers on adventures for almost a quarter of a century. And while the animation has upgraded to 3D and the episodes are shorter, the actor who voiced Dora for the first time 24 years ago says that the new season —kicking off Friday on Paramount+ — will be as friendly and exciting as always.

“Dora’s still going on these adventures — and including the viewer, including everyone to join her,” said Kathleen Herles in an interview with NBC News. “If she brings you with her, and she’s teaching you or helping you problem-solve, teaching you a new Spanish word, teaching you about who she is, showing you her culture, I think any adventure would be great.”

Dora Márquez, known more intimately by her young viewers as Dora the Explorer, started off as a 7-year-old Latina on Nickelodeon in August 2000.

Each episode focuses on an adventure. And Dora habitually breaks the fourth wall of the show, which is to say that she speaks to her viewers directly as if they were all joining her on her quests. Her travel companions include a bilingual purple backpack that speaks Spanish and English, and an anthropomorphic monkey named Boots.

While the creators of Dora want to preserve her personality as open and fun, her identity has become more defined.

“Dora didn’t really have a specific culture, she just kind of represented all Latino people,” said Diana Zermeño, the new voice actor for Dora. “Now she has more specific cultures — her mom is Peruvian and her dad is Mexican and Cuban.”

Herles, the original Dora, said that this identity shift reflects the multicultural reality of many young viewers today.

“We’re all older, we’re starting families, we’re getting married, we have kids, and those kids now come from a multicultural background,” she said, reflecting on the evolution of the young viewers who were fans of the show when she voiced the character. “I think you can see those cultural changes within our society, and within the Latino community. And I think that’s why it’s really smart too, because it speaks to that.”

Herles was born in the U.S. to parents who immigrated from Peru, while Zermeño was born in the U.S. to parents who had immigrated from Mexico.

Looking ahead at the legacy of the animated series, both voice actors believe that the defining characteristics of Dora are her friendliness and excitement, which she uses to invite viewers to her bilingual Spanish-English story.

When asked which Spanish words they like to say with Dora, Zermeño prefers the basics: “gracias” (“thank you”), “de nada” (“you are welcome”), and “por favor” (“please”).

Herles, on the other hand, really likes one word: “hola” (“hello”), which she describes as an invitation to all viewers, akin to saying welcome to my world.

Herles describes fans connecting through a cycle of experiences that revolve around the show, which gets passed down from parents to children, and uncles and aunts to nephews and nieces.

Zermeño prefers to take inspiration from Marvel and DC superhero comics to show how old and young generations of fans can connect in a “Dora multiverse.”

“There have been so many different voices of Dora, that it would be funny if they all had their own little world,” she said, “and if Dora could explore those different worlds.”

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Arturo Conde is an editor and a bilingual freelance journalist. He writes for La Opinión A Coruña and has been published in Fusion, Univision and City Limits.