8 of the best cities in the USA

30.10.2024 - 16:13 / lonelyplanet.com / Robert De-Niro

Oct 29, 2024 • 9 min read

In a country as large and diverse as the United States, cities come in all shapes, sizes and flavors. From large urban powerhouses to smaller gems, here's our pick of the cities that will give you just the right taste of what traveling the US is all about.

Best for arts and culture

Vibes: There are cities. And then there’s New York City. The word “energy” may be overused in this descriptive context, but it’s not without merit. You feel it instantly. This isn’t just a bigger version of your typical American city. This is New York.

Do: There are endless sights and attractions within a global megalopolis of this size and stature, but perhaps the best way to experience New York is to simply walk the streets and see where you end up. Start in Central Park and make your way south through the Theater District towards the hip bars and music venues of the Lower East Side. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike the scenic High Line, hop the subway to Brooklyn or check out the one-of-a-kind Little Island.

Eat: Every dish imaginable from every corner of the globe is available but, in order to not be overwhelmed, newbies should stick to the classics like Katz’s Deli, Peter Luger Steak House, Sylvia’s in Harlem for soul food, and John’s of Bleeker for pizza. Then again, this is NYC. Wander into a corner bodega, and you’ll find something good.

Stay: Cool NYC hotels like the Bowery Hotel and the Robert De Niro-owned Greenwich Hotel will cost you an arm and a leg, so you may want to explore cozy alternatives like the Ludlow or the Freehand. Otherwise, maybe you know someone in the city whose couch you can pretty please crash on?

Best for architecture and summer festivals

Vibes: Showcasing towering skyscrapers set right up against a gorgeous Lake Michigan backdrop, Chicago will seduce you with the breathtaking architecture of its marvelous, museum-packed downtown. But the real heart of the city is found within the nooks and crannies of its 77 diverse neighborhoods.

Do: The Second City is second to none in the summer months, when its neighborhoods burst to life with street festivals and city parks are packed with live music. Touristy but worthwhile, a boat ride on the Chicago River is a must, followed by a Cubs game at the iconic Wrigley Field, and a trip to the beach (yes, they have those here) – followed by, you guessed it, some more cocktails and live music at a friendly neighborhood dive like California Clipper or the Hideout.

Eat: The Chicago food scene is famous for its working man’s Holy Trinity of hot dogs, deep-dish pizza, and Italian beef sandwiches, all of which need to be high on your hit list. Round out your trip (and waistline) with visits to the high-end Alinea, the beloved Girl & the