As a travel blogger, I have to say that the United States of America is a country that, despite fascinating me, somehow didn’t make it on my recent travel list. The last time I’ve been there was, let’s see, 1995. Yes, you’ve read that right. A quarter of a century ago. Boy, I’m old.
Nor have I covered the USA anywhere near as much as I intended to when I first started to get into travel writing. Thankfully, from now on, I’ve decided to put that right.
When you think of the USA, if you had to think of one thing, what would it be? It’s difficult to narrow it down to just one thing, isn’t it, because the country itself is so vast.
What I really like about America, is the fact that each state is like its own country. You can literally go from the extreme cold of Alaska to the scorching hot deserts of Arizona, and everything in between.
Because the US is so enormous, there are countless hidden gems just begging to be discovered, and that’s what I’m going to try to do today.
If you’re looking for a city break, I’ll be listing se7en of the most beautiful cities in the US. Oh and, spoiler alert, New York isn’t on the list, simply because, as beautiful as it is, it’s one of the most famous cities in the world.
Honolulu, Hawaii
First up, I’ve stunning Honolulu, which many people often forget is actually located in the US, as Hawaii is indeed one of the 50 states making up that great nation.
Honolulu is a tropical paradise, so if you want all of the convenience associated with a city break, with the perks of being right by the sea, this is the perfect city for you to enjoy.
Honolulu is a culturally diverse coastal city, that is also home to some of the world’s most amazing beaches. Waikiki beach, for example, is a tourist hotspot complete with white sandy beaches, palm trees, turquoise warm seas, sunshine, and of course, Tiki bars aplenty.
If you want to go more urban, simply head inland and discover some of the amazing museums, shops, and restaurants scattered throughout the city, where you can discover more about this Polynesian metropolis.
Newport, Rhode Island
Next, I’m taking you to Newport, Rhode Island.
Another coastal city, Newport is certainly not short of breath-taking scenery. You can take a cruise along Ocean Drive, or you can choose to explore the city on foot, by embarking on a 3.5-mile cliff walk and see how the 1% live in their gorgeous mansions.
If you love your architecture, the buildings here are sure to captivate your imagination, including America’s oldest synagogue – the Touro Synagogue, which is the perfect example of Georgian-themed architecture in all its glory.
New Orleans, Louisiana
No article looking at America’s prettiest cities would be complete without New Orleans.
New Orleans, also known as ‘The Big Easy’ is one of the most popular cities in the entire world, and is of course, famous for its Mardi Gras celebrations every February.
New Orleans, or NOLA, as the locals call it, is a very unique city that displays an abundance of French, Italian, German, Spanish, African, and Irish influences in its architecture.
Imagine Spanish-style villas and creole cottages, with just a hint of Art Deco and other Parisian touches, and you have a rough idea of what the vast melting pot of New Orleans is all about.
The locals are welcoming and charming, the hospitality is out of this world, and you simply must sample some authentic Cajun cooking and local delicacies, including Gumbo, a shrimp broil, a spicy jambalaya, and a delicious po boy sandwich.
Anchorage, Alaska
Alaska is the perfect destination for anybody that wants a city break, within rural and tranquil settings.
The city of Anchorage is like something out of a Bob Ross painting, as it is surrounded by steep snow-capped mountains, glaciers, pine trees, and of course, plenty of happy little bushes, as Bob would say.
The city is like no other you’ve likely experienced before, though there are still plenty of amenities, including coffee shops. In fact, Anchorage is a city that takes its coffee very seriously and was recently voted the second most caffeinated city in the US, second only to Seattle, which sadly didn’t make the cut today.
Portland, Maine
For those of you with nautical blood flowing through your veins, Portland, Maine, is the city for you.
I myself have a strong affinity towards the sea, so Portland is definitely on my ‘to-visit’ list in the not too distant future.
Portland is a very quaint, quirky, and upmarket city, complete with cobbled roads, brilliant white-washed buildings, a lighthouse, craft breweries, and gorgeous 19th-century warehouses.
If you enjoy your seafood, just get yourself to Portland as the seafood is world-famous. To brioche lobster rolls, to smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels, it is simply out of this world or so the reviews would have it.
Jackson, Wyoming
Ever wanted to visit a city that looked like something taken straight out of a Clint Eastwood western, or a Read Dead Redemption game, for my younger readers? If so, then Jackson, Wyoming is the place to visit.
This unassuming city is located in the Jackson Hole Valley of Wyoming, and is a firm favourite amongst skiers and snowboarders during the winter, thanks to its rugged mountains which see heavy snowfall during the colder months.
Jackson is also hugely popular amongst creatives as it has a vibrant arts and culture scene, and is home to plenty of museums, fairs, art galleries, and live events.
With the mountains in the distance, coupled with the lakes, forests, and open plains, you’ll feel as if you’re in the real-life Wild West.
Sedona, Arizona
Last, I’m transporting you to the deserts of Arizona.
Specifically, I’m taking you to the gorgeous city of Sedona, Arizona.
Sedona is a desert town complete with vibrant red rock landscapes, hot sunshine, rocky landscapes, and green forests believe it or not.
It is also a city with a bustling art scene that is also home to spas and wellness retreats, making it popular amongst holistic healers and those in touch with their spirituality.
