Looking for the prettiest cities in the US? No matter if you’re going to have a short visit or relocate to a scenic place, America has much to offer, from stunning metropolitan cities to small countryside towns. It is tough to pick the top ones, but we have tried to make a list of the United States’ most beautiful cities so that you can add to your bucket list. Go and check with us to explore the gorgeous landscape of America!
The Prettiest Cities in the US
From large metropolitan cities like Seattle and San Francisco to historic towns like Charleston and Savannah, from stunning coastal resorts like Honolulu and lush countryside like Portland, we have assembled the top 20 most beautiful cities in the US as below:
1. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is regarded as the most beautiful city in the United States for its spectacular setting between mountains and the vast Puget Sound. The jagged Olympic Mountains to the west, snow-capped Mt. Rainier to the South, spectacular Cascades to the east, together with the deep blue Puget Sound and two lakes, foster its unbeatable setting. There are also several parks like Lake Union, Discover Park, and Kerry Park, as well as dense forests, which lead to a green city with the nickname of “Emerald City“. Tourists can enjoy one of the most impressive skylines in North America, and also iconic architectures like the Space Needle. On the other hand, Seattle is also known for its coffee culture and unique neighborhoods from the new waterfront to Pike Place Market.
2. Honolulu, Hawaii
Honolulu is undoubtedly one of the prettiest cities in the US with iconic beaches, volcanic mountains, and diverse architectures. It is the capital of Hawaii, and consists of Waikiki, Downtown, and Pearl Harbour. Waikiki is the most favored tourist spot with its beautiful white-sand beach. The Diamond Head is a massive crater, one of the most popular spots for hikers. With a blend of Hawaiian heritage and American, Japanese, and American culture, Honolulu’s beauty also lies in its diverse atmosphere, such as various temples, Iolani Palace, and its “Aloha spirit”.
3. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is not only the place where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, but also one of the most beautiful cities in America. The cobblestone streets add a European vibe to the city, together with colorful houses and horse-drawn carriages. The city boasts a diverse architectural style, from The Battery and Middleton Place to the French Quarter, Rainbow Row, and Pineapple Fountain. Situated on a peninsula, Charleston also offers beautiful waterfront spots bordered by rivers and the ocean. Waterfront Park is one of the best places to go, with beautiful gardens and lovely fountains.
4. San Francisco, California
Home to famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, San Francisco is often rated one of the prettiest cities in the US. Sitting against the backdrop of the bay and ocean with its steep hills, the city boasts changing views. Foggy weather adds more to the dramatic and picturesque appearance. The city’s beauty lies in the combination of natural and architectural views. The orange-red Golden Gate Bridge, historic Victorian homes, dense urban design, and natural spaces create a harmonious blend of city and nature. Take a walk to Chinatown, Tenderloin, Polk Gulch, and North Beach, where you will understand why San Francisco is also one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities.
5. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is not only a Windy City, but also a beautiful city in the United States. You will see one of the most majestic skylines in the world, with more than 120 towering skyscrapers that offer stunning views. Head to the Willis Tower Sky Deck to get a panoramic view, and have a look at one of the largest fountains in the world- the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain. There are also 88,00 acres of green space and over 600 scenic parks. What’s more, do not miss its waterfronts across Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.
6. Savannah, Georgia
Like Charleston, Savannah is also a historic city. Antebellum architecture, ancient cemeteries, and the American Prohibition Museum will give you a holistic picture of America’s past. Apart from that, Savannah is also consistently ranked one of the most beautiful cities in America. Take a boat on the Savannah River, stroll at the lively pedestrian-only City Market, enjoy local seafood and beaches at Tybee Island,and head to Bonaventure Cemetery to see azaleas. Savannah’s romance lies deeply in its oak trees, cobblestone streets, and lovely antebellum mansions.
7. Portland, Oregon
Portland is not only the capital of cool among US hipsters, but also one of the most scenic cities in the US. Surrounded by forests, mountains, and the Willamette River, the city offers breathtaking natural wonders. Forest Park in the north is the largest urban wilderness area in America, while Washington Park in the west is home to the Oregon Zoo, a Japanese Garden, a children’s museum, and more. Cannon Beach and Seaside are the two beach towns for surf, and Mount Hood is the only all-year-round ski resort in the US.
8. Boston, Massachusetts
As one of the best places to visit in New England, Boston blends historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and beautiful outdoor spaces. It is one of the oldest cities in the US, filled with cobblestone streets and buildings dating back centuries. Take a walk along the Freedom Trail to look at some of the most significant sites in the American Revolutionary War. Or head to other historic sites like the Museum of African American History and the Boston Public Library. History is not all about Boston; the city is also home to the most beautiful city parks, like Boston Common and the Public Garden, which are part of the Emerald Necklace. When you arrive in the city, it is also a must to see a Boston Red Sox game at Fenway Park to feel the most loyal and passionate fans.
9. New York City, New York
No list of the most beautiful cities in the U.S. is complete without New York City. Take a ferry from the Hudson River to see the city’s landmark, the Statue of Liberty. Head to Lower Manhattan, which is filled with spectacular buildings, shops, and markets, to feel local charm. Visit the luscious green space at New York Central Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Also, do not miss its unique cityscape with skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center.
10. Miami, Florida
Miami stands as one of the prettiest cities in America with its stunning beahces, icononic Art Deco architecture, and vibrant culture. No matter you’re a lover of water spots or a sun-seeker, Miami’s has various beaches with unique aura and atmosphere. Ocean Drive and Miami Beach Architectural District signify the rich history and cultral heritage of the city. There are also green spaces like Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and Everglades National Park, which are perfect spaces for a peaceful stroll. Also, its famous nightlife and culinary art will never let you down.
11. Sedona, Arizona
Unlike other Metropolitan cities, Sedona is rated as one of the most scenic cities in America, solely to its stunning natural beauty. Iconic red rocks dominate the city’s landscape, with green forests and oases as a contrast, providing visual beauty and a serene atmosphere. The city is filled with canyons, valleys, and mesas, leading to a dramatic landscape and varied terrain. Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge are the two popular hiking paths that offer access to unique geological features and stunning viewpoints.
12. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City sits between the majestic Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, leading to a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. The nearby Great Salt Lake is known for its beautiful sunsets that reflect off its surface, making to a must-visit spot in the city. The Wasatch Mountains provide not only an awe-inspiring backdrop to the city’s skyline, but also offer great options for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor adventures. Temple Square is a holy place of Mormons that takes up 35 acres in the middle of Salt Lake City. Liberty Park is the city’s largest public park, hosting various flora, picnic lawns, a public swimming pool, and more.
13. Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, and also one of the most beautiful American cities. Sit at the foot of the Chugach mountain range to the east and along the shoreline of Cook Inlet to the West, Anchorage is the only place that you can meet a moose, walk on a glacier, and explore a vast natural park in a single day. The city has the nation’s greatest concentration of glaciers, holds more than half of America’s national park lands, and is home to 155 peaks that offer hiking trails. Anchorage is also the best place to see Alaska animals, from moose and bears to whales and millions of birds.
14. Madison, Wisconsin
As one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S., Madison offers a perfect blend of city life and natural surroundings. Sitting between two lakes, Lake Mendota and Monona, the city offers beautiful water views and outdoor activities. With every 10,000 residents having 11.6 parks, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is one of the most popular green oases with a sunken garden, perennial garden, tower garden, rock garden, and even more. Madison is perhaps the best place for biking, with a network of lakeside trails and bike paths.
15. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is maybe the most underrated city in the USA. As a distinct American city, San Antonio has a huge Hispanic influence and a laidback pace of life. One of its most popular attractions is the River Walk, a more than 15-mile path that connects hundreds of shops, restaurants, landmarks, museums, and hotels. Taste local food at one of the restaurants or take a boat tour to enjoy the scenery and local life. Visit the Alamo in the heart of the city to know the site’s 300-year history, or head to Natural Bridge Caverns to see huge underground chambers and thousands of years-old natural formations.
16. Denver, Colorado
Denver is ranked as one of the prettiest cities in the US for its picturesque Rocky Mountains, more than 300 days of sun per year, and charming neighborhoods. Sitting on vast plains behind the spectacular Rocky Mountains, the Mile High City offers easy access to breathtaking scenery. It is a gateway to some of the country’s best places for skiing and snowboarding. Numerous city parks like Red Rocks Park are also great options for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. Home to an array of galleries, museums, and street art, Denver also boasts a vibrant art scene. Head to the Denver Art Museum, MCA Denver, or River North Art District to experience modern shows or extensive collections.
17. Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis, one of America’s prettiest cities, is well-known for its unique old town European vibes with cost East Coast beauty. Named after the British Princess Anne, the city has well-preserved colonial architecture with cobblestone streets. The Maryland State House is the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, and the William Paca House & Garden was built by one of Maryland’s four Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Sit by the picturesque Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is home to the U.S. Naval Academy and boasts a longstanding maritime history, also leading to a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
18. Key West, Florida
Key West is one of the United States’ most beautiful cities that sits at the southernmost point in the continental USA. It is a small island lying roughly 90 miles north of Cuba, the best place for a true taste of the tropics. Proximity to Cuba and the Bahamas adds Caribbean flair to the city, together with its famous sunsets, turquoise waters, and wooden gingerbread houses. Take a stroll in the historic Old Town, watch the sunset at Mallory Square, explore the thrilling underwater world by snorkeling, and visit famous parks like Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Zachary State Park.
19. San Diego, California
Among the most beautiful cities United States, San Diego will be the one that people want to live there after visiting. The city is famous for its beaches, parks, and warm climate. San Diego has numerous beaches suitable for diverse purposes. The Pacific Beach has an excellent party atmosphere, La Jolla Shores is ideal for families, Windansea Beach is perfect for surfing, and there is much for others. The city’s award-winning park system boasts campgrounds, sports parks, and open space, including Balboa Park, Bonita Vove, Mission Bay Park, and more. In addition, you will never have to make plans for the weather with consistent sunshine and moderate temperatures.
20. Laguna Beach, California
Laguna Beach is one of the prettiest beach destinations in the United States. Positioned on the Orange County coastline halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego, Laguna Beach is a small beach town with its main income from tourism. The Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park has more than 30 miles of hiking trails, with trails to the Top of the World viewpoint via the Canyon Acres Trail. Cleo Street Beach is popular for its sandy beach, Crystal Cove State Park will be ideal for surf, camping, and hiking, while Mai Beach Lighthouse Tower is one of the city’s historic treasures.
Final Thoughts
The United States has much to offer for everyone, whether you’re looking for a stunning beach to enjoy sunshine, a beautiful historic town to appreciate its architecture, or a big city with both landscaped surroundings and scenic public parks. After viewing our list of 20 prettiest cities in the US, we hope you will find the best desitination for yourself.
FAQ on The Prettiest Cities in the US
What is the #1 most beautiful city in United States?
The most beautiful city in the United States is Seattle. Nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, Seattle’s beauty is dramatic. The iconic Space Needle punctuates a skyline backed by the massive, snow-capped Mount Rainier. Its vibrant waterfront, lush evergreen parks, and blend of modern and natural elements create a stunning, atmospheric Pacific Northwest appeal.
What are the top 10 prettiest cities in the US?
Based on a blend of natural setting and architectural charm, here are the top 10 prettiest cities in the US:
Seattle, Washington: Stunningly set between Puget Sound and mountains, featuring the iconic Space Needle.
Honolulu, Hawaii: Tropical paradise with world-famous beaches like Waikiki and dramatic volcanic peaks.
Charleston, South Carolina: Renowned for its preserved historic district, cobblestone streets, and charming antebellum architecture.
San Francisco, California: Famous for the Golden Gate Bridge, rolling hills, and vibrant Victorian houses.
Chicago, Illinois: An architectural masterpiece on Lake Michigan, with a magnificent skyline and renowned public art.
Savannah, Georgia: Picturesque with its historic squares, moss-draped oaks, and elegant Southern mansions.
Portland, Maine: A charming New England port city with a historic waterfront, lighthouses, and beautiful coastline.
Boston, Massachusetts: Blends historic American landmarks with modern cityscapes along its picturesque harbor.
New York City, New York: An iconic skyline defined by landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Miami, Florida: Vibrant Art Deco architecture in South Beach set against the backdrop of turquoise waters.
What are the top 10 best cities to live in the US?
The top 10 best citie sto live in the US include Austin, Denver, Raleigh, Seattle, Boston, Portland (ME), Minneapolis, Madison, San Jose, and Washington D.C. These cities offer robust job markets, access to nature, and vibrant cultural scenes for diverse lifestyles.
What are the top 10 cities with the best quality of life?
The top 10 cities with the best quality of life include Ann Arbor, Boulder, Madison, Portland (ME), San Jose, Boston, Minneapolis, Washington D.C., Seattle, and Honolulu. These cities excel in education, healthcare access, safety, and abundant green spaces.
