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If you’re in the U.S. and looking to do some domestic tourism this year, you’re in luck. The U.S. is filled with some of the most iconic and beautiful cities around! Many of them are full of history and culture and can offer travelers days of endless interesting experiences.
Check out this list of 10 of the most beautiful cities in the U.S. to visit this summer. They won't disappoint!
1. New Orleans
Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its vibrant culture. NOLA, as it’s sometimes referred to, has a long list of must-do activities. From attending one of its famous festivals to touring its delightful garden district, the activities in New Orleans are almost endless.
New Orleans’ history of music festivals and clubs is on full display. Take a historical tour or hang out at one of the many non-stop clubs. You can even tour the nearby Louisiana swamps!
2. Park City
Utah
While Park City is one of the more low-profile destinations on this list, this city definitely earns its reputation as “the perfect mountain town.” Park City first gained some traction when they helped host the 2002 Olympics.
Since then, it has been known as a destination for skiers from all over the world. In fact, many professional athletes flock to Park City to train and get the benefits of training at altitude at high-quality facilities. But it’s also a fantastic summer location!
This beautiful city is surrounded by mountains, making it a haven for hikers. The slew of outdoor activities makes this a great destination for adventurers. You can even try yoga on stand-up paddle boards! But you’ll also find this city to be a great destination for beauty and wellness treatments as well as great dining experiences and art galleries.
3. Santa Barbara
California
Santa Barbara has often been called the American Riviera. Not only are there some great beaches in Santa Barbara, there’s also a great system of wineries in the area. In Santa Barbara, you’ll be able to spend your entire vacation outside if you wish. You’ll can spend time on the beach, go to outdoor tastings at the famous wineries, and soak up the sun in Santa Barbara’s many beautiful parks and gardens. And don't forget to check out the historical Santa Barbara Mission!
4. Philadelphia
Pennsylvania
This beautiful and historic city is filled with lovely brick buildings and landmarks. Touring Philadelphia will take you through, not only the history of the founding of America, but also more modern sights. The tour of 35+ incredible minority-owned businesses throughout the city is a fantastic way to take in the modern sights of Philly.
There are so many things to do in Philadelphia. Not only can you eat an iconic Philly cheesesteak and tour Independence Hall, you can run up the “Rocky steps” that were used in the classic “Rocky” film series!
5. Honolulu
Hawaii
It’s no surprise that a place in Hawaii made it onto a list of beautiful cities. Honolulu is known as being a stunning and unique place. The fine dining and gorgeous views of this cosmopolitan city will elevate your beach vacation to a whole new level.
In Honolulu, you can visit active volcanos and the only royal palace in the U.S! Enjoy everything from eco-tourism activities like snorkeling and visiting Honolulu’s botanical gardens to festivals that show off Hawaii’s culture.
6. Charleston
South Carolina
Most people have heard Charleston, South Carolina listed as a contender for being the most beautiful city in the U.S. And the city deserves this recognition! Charleston is an amazing destination for artistic and cultural experiences as well as luxurious hotel stays and spa treatments.
This romantic city is a great destination for couples. The art museums, distilleries and wine bars, and tours of the city’s rich history will help make your vacation both relaxing and intriguing.
7. Portland
Maine
Portland, Maine is a great place to go if you want to get outside. The local islands, beaches, and lighthouses will delight and impress travelers. Portland is also known for being a place where antiques and other treasures can be found in abundance.
If you love seafood, then Portland, Maine is for you! Portland is known as “the foodiest small town,” and their food scene is mainly centered around the famous Maine lobster.
8. St. Augustine
Florida
Known as America’s oldest city, St. Augustine was founded in the sixteenth century. This city leans into its history and provides an array of living history museums and historical landmarks. Take a tour of the city or one of its many historic buildings or head over to the beach for the day! St. Augustine is famous for its white sand beaches.
9. Asheville
North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina has long been a desirable destination thanks to its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. The famous Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the mountains and into Asheville, showing off this Eastern mountain range. But Asheville is also a city filled with great historical buildings and a fun sense of culture. Additionally, it’s a great area for foodies!
The Biltmore Estate is probably the most well-known building in Asheville. Its gardens are famous, and the winery on the estate can’t be missed. You can even stay the night at the Biltmore if you’re looking for a historical (and luxurious) adventure!
10. Seattle
Washington
The views from the beautiful city of Seattle are enough to make this city a contender for the most beautiful city in the U.S. Seattle sits under the dramatic Mount Rainier and is surrounded by Lake Washington and the Puget Sound. The unique cultural vibe of the city is alluring, with its intriguing architecture, museums, and nightlife.
Seattle is also famous for its gardens and parks. Bloedel Reserve is one of the best botanical gardens around. And the Seattle Japanese Garden is a great daytime destination. If you’re looking for a great hotel to stay at in and around Seattle, you won’t be disappointed.
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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.