From skyline views to desert sunsets, the United States offers a range of U.S. cities worth exploring. Each one tells its own story — of culture, cuisine, creativity, and community. Drawing on decades of guided travel experience, we know how much these destinations shine.

Do you dream of jazz-filled nights, coastal strolls, or mountain backdrops? You’ll find all that and more in America. Here are the best cities to visit in the U.S. Here are the best cities to visit in the U.S. — and chances are, there’s a Collette tour that brings you right to them.

At a Glance: Best U.S. Cities to Visit (By Region)

East Coast

• Boston, Massachusetts

• New York City, New York

• Washington, D.C.

• Charleston, South Carolina

• Savannah, Georgia

South & Music Cities

• Nashville, Tennessee

• Memphis, Tennessee

• New Orleans, Louisiana

Southwest & Desert Highlights

• Santa Fe, New Mexico

• Sedona, Arizona

• Las Vegas, Nevada

West Coast Classics

• San Francisco, California

• San Diego, California

• Los Angeles, California

• Seattle, Washington

Midwest

• Chicago, Illinois

America’s Greatest Cities: Where Culture, History, and Adventure Meet

Each U.S. city has its own unique rhythm, from the buzz of New York City to the warmth of Charleston, South Carolina, to the creative, techy vibe of Seattle, Washington.

Boston, Massachusetts

With its blend of historic charm and modern energy, Boston serves as the gateway to New England, connecting visitors to the region's rich history and diverse attractions. Follow the Freedom Trail, browse the Boston Public Market, and watch the sunset from the Charles River Esplanade.

New York City, New York

The city that never sleeps shines brightest for travellers. From Broadway shows and world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art (a must-see attraction ) to quieter moments in Central Park, every corner of New York feels alive with possibility.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital balances power with beauty, anchored by the iconic White House — a central landmark and enduring symbol of Washington, D.C.'s political significance. Explore monuments, world-class museums, and neighborhoods brimming with international flare.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston embodies southern grace, with its pastel homes, oak-lined streets, and a deep sense of history. Wander the Battery, visit local markets, and experience the cultural fusion of Lowcountry cuisine.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville hums with music, hospitality, and southern soul. Step into the Country Music Hall of Fame, catch a live show at the Grand Ole Opry, and experience the rhythm that defines Music City.

Memphis, Tennessee

In Memphis, the legacy of American music is everywhere, from Sun Studio to Beale Street. The city sits on the banks of the Mississippi River, a key feature of the city’s identity and a major attraction. Walk in the footsteps of legends and discover the soulful energy that gave rise to rock ’n’ roll.

Savannah, Georgia

Romantic and walkable, Savannah is known for its slow pace, relaxed Southern atmosphere, shaded squares, grand architecture, and artistic flair. Every street feels like a scene from a southern novel.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a celebration of life, culture, and connection. Experience the sounds of brass bands, views from French Quarter balconies, and the vibrant energy all around. This city moves to a rhythm all its own. New Orleans stands out for its deep history, jazz-filled nights, mouthwatering Creole cuisine, and hot, pillowy-soft beignets (deep-fried, sweet, yeasted dough topped with powdered sugar).

Chicago, Illinois

In the past few years, few cities have transformed as much as Chicago, the third-largest city in the U.S. From the Magnificent Mile’s boutique shops to the city’s renowned museums and vibrant live music scene, Chicago is a destination that truly has something for everyone.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Rich in culture and artistry, Santa Fe delights with adobe architecture, Native American heritage, and a thriving creative scene. Its mountain setting adds to the magic.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona stirs the soul with its red-rock landscapes and creative energy. Whether you hike iconic trails like Devil's Bridge and Cathedral Rock, take a drive on the Red Rock Scenic Byway, or visit local art galleries, every moment will be filled with colour and inspiration.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas dazzles with its neon lights, world-class entertainment, and endless opportunities for excitement. It’s a city where the energy never fades, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Mojave Desert. Visitors come for the spectacle: the iconic Strip, glittering lights, and live performances, but stay for the experiences that lie beyond. Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of a show or the adventure waiting just beyond the city limits, “Vegas” is a destination that caters to an array of interests.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a city that captures the imagination, where steep hills, Victorian architecture, and ocean air create an atmosphere that’s both vibrant and laid-back. Visitors come for its iconic sights, such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the cable cars, but quickly discover that San Francisco’s real charm lies in its neighbourhoods. From the bohemian spirit of Haight-Ashbury to the cozy cafés of North Beach and the murals of the Mission District, San Francisco feels like many worlds in one. Add in a thriving food scene, coastal hikes, and a sense of timeless creativity, and it’s easy to see why travellers are forever drawn to this fog-kissed city by the bay.

San Diego, California

San Diego beckons with its golden-coast charm, sunny bayside ambiance, and rich cultural layers. And, the city’s mild climate makes it a wonderful place for outdoor adventures, such as biking and hiking. Soak in Old Town’s historic vibes, walking through Balboa Park’s gardens and museums, and feel the ocean breeze on Coronado Island. San Diego is more than sun and surf — it’s your gateway to giant sequoias, verdant forests, and dramatic canyon landscapes inland. It’s this rare mix of laid-back coastal living and awe-inspiring nature. San Diego is a must-visit — the perfect launch pad for a journey that spans beachside ease, mission-era history, and the towering trees of the Sierra Nevada.

Los Angeles, California

“The City of Angels” is one of endless reinvention, where creativity, culture, and sunshine collide in unforgettable ways. Visitors are drawn by its famous landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign, Santa Monica Pier, and the star-studded Walk of Fame, but the real magic of L.A. lies in its contrasts. You can surf at sunrise, browse world-class art at the Getty Centre by noon, and dine beneath the glow of downtown’s skyline by night. Beyond the glamour, neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Koreatown, and Venice reveal the city’s diverse heart and creative energy. Whether you come for the movies, the beaches, or the food scene that reflects flavours from around the world, Los Angeles offers an invitation to dream big and see how those dreams come vividly to life.

Seattle, Washington

Set between mountains and sea, Seattle mixes innovation with natural beauty. Watch the skyline sparkle from Puget Sound, explore Pike Place Market, see the Space Needle, and sip coffee in the birthplace of Starbucks.

Travel Tips for Exploring U.S. Cities

Exploring U.S. cities is all about embracing the unique character and rhythm of each destination. Whether you’re wandering the vibrant city streets of New Orleans or browsing the bustling stalls at Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, every city offers its own blend of culture, history, and adventure. For example, San Francisco enchants visitors with its rolling hills, colourful Victorian homes, and a perfect mix of natural beauty and modern amenities. Meanwhile, a journey through the Deep South introduces you to a world of southern hospitality, rich traditions, and unforgettable cuisine.

Final Thoughts

From East Coast icons to Western wonders, the best cities to visit in the U.S. reveal the country’s incredible diversity. Each place offers something new — a taste, a sound, a view that stays with you long after you return home.

With Collette, every detail is cared for. Our expertly guided tours blend discovery with ease, so you can focus on the moments that matter — connection, curiosity, and wonder.

Ready to explore America’s most iconic cities? Find your next adventure.