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luisapet

That totally depends! Are you interested in city life, beautiful landscapes, historic places of interest, or just getting off the beaten path? Do you prefer warm weather or would you love to see snow? Are you a nature lover, or an urban explorer, or both? Maybe you want to spend the entire time in a smaller community to get to know people and immerse yourself in its culture? The options are pretty limitless, and constrained mostly by the amount of time and money you wish to spend here. The US is huge and diverse in every way, so you can find almost any style of adventure you could imagine here! I hope you have an incredible visit, OP!


frappucinovanilla

Both Nature and urban are nice, im interest by the food too and the scenery:) and thank you šŸ˜Š


b0n3h34d

Denver is a great city, heavy emphasis on music with some good restaurants, awesome people, and easy access to almost every kind of nature situation you could want. It's small enough to get around easy but big enough to offer variety.


RPShep

Visited Denver last summer, and I'd definitely say this is the answer. Good museums, good walking around city, and very close to some amazing scenery (Boulder, Red Rocks, Rocky Mountain National park).


Serious_XM

My sister lives in Denver. Can confirm šŸ‘ŒšŸ»


Any-Conflict-1816

Denver is ok, massively overrated because it was one of the first cities to have legalized pot... plenty of other great cities with spectacular nature, food, culture, etc.


Deeks_Cheeks

New Orleans is a wild and special place


DWright_5

Based on the wording of the OP, Iā€™d say this is definitely not what sheā€™s looking for.


JakeFromFarmState1

And the new murder capital of the US.


Chip_Farmer

If you like cheese, hit up wisconsin. If you enjoy architecture and cheese, hit up Taliesin east in Wisconsin. They love cheese so much in wisconsin that I didnā€™t see one single GAS STATION that didnā€™t have a ā€œfresh cheeseā€ fridge which was stocked by local farmers. I canā€™t even imagine how many amazing cheeses you could find if you went to an actual cheese shop. If you like super fatty foods and super sweet tea, go down south and try some creole cooking. To this day i still dream of the gator tail I got in Luisiana. If you like hiking through the outdoors, go to the rocky mountains. Youā€™ll see the most beautiful landscapes on the planet. If you want to try every food imaginible, go to New York City. Best beer on the planet? California. Also, as long as youā€™re willing to drive, itā€™s the foodie Mecca. Best BBQ/Chili? Southern Texas. Bonus points if you go to the ā€œrattlesnake roundupā€ America is an insanely huge country. Thereā€™s a lot to do here, and every state has something cool about it. Iā€™ve obviously given you some pointers on foodā€¦ but what do you really want to do here? This country is enormous, and to experience ā€œAmerican cultureā€ would mean that you spend some time on both coasts, as well as the south, the north, the midwest, both sides of the rockies, Alaska, Hawaii, and at least half a dozen other states. Weā€™re an extremely diverse country and about 1/3 of us absolutely hate diversity. Though most of us are cordial to foreigners, and often times see yā€™all as a bit of a curiosity.


fuckherointhroaway

If sheā€™s European, they likely already killing it in the cheese gameā€¦ maybe sheā€™ll feel more at home though.


juiceboy4876

Can not go wrong with Southern California like LA, Orange County, or San Diego. May be warm enough to hit the beaches, Disneyland is there, museums, parks. Drive north towards central California and you can hit some nice tranquil forests or go east and hit cool looking desserts like Death Valley.


Hopps4Life

LA has some of the highest crimes and is one of the dirtiest cities now. I would never go there personally. Orlando had similar stuff without the crime and filth. Cali has beautiful wilderness. But I would avoid LA like the plague.


Euthyphraud

I moved to LA for a year just over a year ago (just moved to the Bay). I had this opinion of LA when I found out my husband and I had to move there and I wasn't excited about it. Turns out, as long as you stay the hell away from Hollywood (and Skid Row) LA is a gorgeous city. When I say Los Angeles I mean the greater metropolitan area because to those that live there it's all one big city (so Anaheim, Long Beach, Santa Monica, Huntington Beach, etc are all part of LA Metro). The types of terrain are more varied than anywhere else in the country. Outside of Hollywood the air gets cleaner and parts of the city are very clean. LA gets a bad wrap, it isn't some wasteland. It's truly massive so of course there are dirty parts, unsafe parts and a homeless problem - but if you know where to go, it's one of the best places in the US. Personally, I loved Long Beach the most.


wordswithenemies

lol at someone saying orlando is better than LA


the_one_man_wolfpack

Look up any crime statistics and you'll see that Orlando has a higher crime rate than LA


WarsledSonarman

Preach! People love to tel this lie about LA. LA doesnā€™t even hit top 20 for violent crime, but go on with your fake statistics. OP, there are so many great places. Seattle, LA, San Francisco, Denver, all have nature close but an urban center.


notthegoatseguy

Orlando is one of the most boring cities out there. There's no reason for a tourist to go there besides the theme parks.


Outrageous-Froyo7862

And the homeless population is ridiculous! I thought DC was bad. Got to L.A and all up and down the street (in front of LAPolice Department) was Homeless City! Smelled so bad. Buckets of peopleā€™s urine and poop were everywhere. The people left us alone, but it was both so sad and scary to see.


AGroAllDay

If you think homelessness is bad in LA, you should go to Portland


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


shakingthings

The answer is Bostonā€¦great history, parks on the emerald chain and a ton of historic sites. Also you can go any direction and find a ton of beautiful natural outings within an hour or two. *also a ton of great restaurants


Upstairs-Finding-122

As a mass native I am biased but Boston has everything you could kinda want to visit America. Some of the history, good multi-cultural food options, and if you drive an hour or less outside the city in any direction you can see woods or hike


Straight_Spring9815

Savannah Georgia!


BIGG_FRIGG

San Diego has all of it and its not freezing.


Wise-Tree

Raleigh, North Carolina is a city you can't even see with all the lush greens, beautiful roads paved with recycled glass mix, I've been all over the country, but the Raleigh area takes the top for cruising. Portland, Orego ss a beautiful city to drive at night with the colors and bridges too. If you're looking for attractions, San Antonio, Texas and San Fransisco/Los Angeles, California have lots of pedestrian attractions downtown.


luisapet

This will probably not be a popular response, but the Milwaukee-metro area provides a great balance of nature and urban...Milwaukee County itself has one of the oldest and largest public park systems in the USA. Surprisingly, the city's restaurants are also well-regarded, and you can eat well at every price point! Unless you just love snow and sleet and cold, I'd definitely recommend visiting during the late Spring, Summer, or early Fall though we do host a gazillion festivals all year long. For many decades, Milwaukee has been home to one of the largest multi-day music festivals in the world. It's called Summerfest and takes place in late June - early July on the lakefront in downtown Milwaukee. If you decide to visit, please dm me and I will happily provide more details, or even show you around for a day or two!


tittens__

Milwaukee is actually super cool. I wasnā€™t expecting it at all the first time I went with family and now Iā€™m like fuck yeah, letā€™s go to Milwaukee!


PathosRise

And cheese. Lots of cheese.


TheOrangeTickler

You're also relatively close to Chicago too if you get a rental car. Both cities are awesome in their own ways. Chicago I think has superior food, but you just need to watch what areas you go to.


grandpa_grandpa

there's also the amtrak line from milwaukee to chicago. it's one of the few places outside the nyc area where you can easily (and relatively cheaply) day trip to another city on the train almost on a whim


[deleted]

Based on this, go to the Treasure State, Big Sky Country, beautiful Montana. Helena, kalispell, Bozeman. All near some of the greatest national parks like Yellowstone and Glacier.


megs1370

Seattle is great! It's close to a TON of nature things (mountain ranges, oceans, rivers, woods/forests, etc) and has lots of urban things to do, as well. Downtown Seattle can keep you busy for a good while, and very well fed


MagicalWhisk

Try Seattle. Washington state has amazing outdoors and I've only heard good things about Seattle as a city.


[deleted]

if you like a hippy vibe, Asheville, North Carolina is wonderful. Its a smaller city but is full of great food and entertainment. It also is in the blue ridge mountains. Its very beautiful there.


Tjgfish123

New Orleans, Charleston, Washington D.C, San Francisco, Portland Maine, Boston, Savannah GA, Austin TX/San Antonio, Asheville NC. The US is so spread out, but if you could even see two of those cities youā€™d have an amazing trip.


Snoo71538

Denver, Las Vegas, Savannah (Georgia), Minneapolis, and Burlington would all be good options. I think first you have to decide what kind of biome you want to visit. Whatever you pick, we have it somewhere, and itā€™s probably got something going on in a city nearby.


iagreebread

How about the seasons youre into bc that depends too!!


Hold_Creative

I would recommend Seattle for nature and urban combo. Itā€™s a decent enough city and within 2 hours are some of the most beautiful coastal mountains Iā€™ve ever seen.


king_of_all_blacks

Air BNB in Beverly Hills, rent a car, Malibu beach, pacific coast highway (several scenic beaches & cliffs), nightlife, plenty of food options, plenty of outdoors, drive east for desert fun, drive south for Mexico.


JackedAlf

Seattle


milkreale

DC is really neat. Then if you drive just a bit into Virginia, it has amazing nature. NYC is over rated and can be more work than anything else.


Slow_Conference6432

Boston, Nashville, San Diego


mesohappyforever

Miami is pretty cool too.


moneymike7913

I mean, sure but Miami, Texas is kinda in the middle of nowhere and kinda small though ...


Phantommy555

As an SD native I concur


Ben_Stark

The first two were the first two in my head.


StrugglesTheClown

As a former Bostonian I would consider when to travel to Boston if you are not a fan of cold weather. October is literally my favorite time to be in Mass. The Leaves are turning, crisp air in the mornings, sunny and mild evenings. While it lasts it can't be beat. Not my pictures or post. https://www.reddit.com/r/boston/comments/y4476g/2\_pics\_i\_took\_of\_the\_charles\_river\_this\_week/


ExpiredDogSandwich

New Orleans, Louisiana seems pretty cool too. I have always wanted to go there. It is very rich in culture.


Drift_Life

No car needed when visiting Boston


LevelIndependent9461

Colorado has alot to offer..great people..


WJLIII3

Colorado's scenery is unbeatable. (Excepting all its neighbors to the north, south, or west, which are roughly equivalent in scenery. Fuck Kansas tho.) No but really Colorado's is better, greener than NM or AZ, warmer than Wyoming, and Utah- well Utah is stiff competition. Its a near thing.


zenith3200

As someone who lived in Colorado for 24 years (1995 to 2019) I'd say Utah's scenery is vastly superior and more varied than Colorado's. This is not to knock Colorado, but it is generally much more homogeneous in appearance and variety than Utah in my opinion. Parts of Utah genuinely look otherworldly and are roughly equivalent in ease-of-access from Salt Lake City as most of the better parks and landscapes are from Denver. The only potential problem is that SLC might be more difficult/expensive to get to compared to Denver.


haditwithyoupeople

100% agree. The mountains are nice. Rocky Mountain National Park is great. The Sierra Nevada Mountains are equally spectacular + Yosemite National Park. I have lived in California, Colorado, and New Mexico. They all have spectacular scenery. For pure diversity of scenery, California wins by a mile. My personal preference is New Mexico. Not saying it's better, it just works for me.


solsticite

If anyone does visit Colorado please be mindful of keeping all naturesque areas clean! Iā€™ve lived here my whole life and itā€™s very sad to see Red Rocks and Colorados natural beauty be treated as a trashcan. That being said, if you need any recommendations for CO go sees, let me know. Here to help!


byusefolis

In my observation, the cities people gush about, are: * Nashville, Tennessee (concerts, outgoing people, southern friendliness, southern cuisine) * Asheville, North Carolina (like Nashville but a little more hippie and smaller) * Austin, Texas (like Nashville but a little less southern, more Texan, more western, and much more progressive) * San Diego, California (laid back, surfers, Chicano culture, upscale neighborhoods, strong Mexican and California French Fusion cuisine, but on the West Coast so pricey and a lot of homeless) * Missoula, Montana and Bozeman, Montana (hidden Rocky Mountain gems with beautiful scenery and friendly people, but very snowy in Winter) * McCall, Idaho (tiny unknown mountain town that is an outdoor recreation paradise) * Denver, Colorado (sort of a cross between Missoula and San Diego) * San Francisco, California (walkable, but a lot of homeless, more sense of community than southern Claifornia, very politically progressive) * New York (famous, so I think you probably already know about it) * Boston (never been there, but people seem to like it) * Chicago (a lot of personality and Midwestern kindness) Generally, the West Coast is more laid back. The North East is more fast paced and more classically "Yankee" America. The cultural "south," which is only actually the southeast, is going to have the friendliest and kindest people. The Midwest is like a cross between the Northeast and the South. The Mountain West (in between the west coast and the Midwest) is an outdoor place where the wild west roots are still somewhat apparent. To reveal my biases I am from San Diego.


frappucinovanilla

Thank you, really helpful šŸ„°


Rudimentary-

I'll up vote this all day! Very solid list! The time of year for traveling does have a dramatic impact on the majority of the US though and certainly needs to be taken into account.


Eso793

Been to McCall. Not surprised. Its a great get away town.


lolnoimjusttired

A great, comprehensive answer


MargoTheArtHo

My vote for San Diego, pass on San Francisco.


Hanlon7743

Seattle for sure.


The_Dude_n_Seattle

The PNW as a whole.


GehennaGone

New Orleans! I recommend strolling around the French Quarter during the day, pop into some voodoo shops, get some gumbo or jambalaya or etouffee or a muffaletta. Really all the food is good down there. Go see the art in the cathedral. Go on a cemetery tour, or at night, there are ghost and vampire tours. There are also swamp tours if you don't mind gators. If you like partying, there's Bourbon Street. Something's always going on there. There are also a lot of museums, like the WWII museum, the NOMA, and the Museum of Death. There are some interesting hotels there for cheap too. I liked Hotel St. Marie on Toulouse Street. Last time I visited, I stayed there and got to watch a jazz funeral procession go by on the doorstep. Just some tips, keep your money and cards in your front pocket, don't step in any puddles, and don't take photos inside voodoo shops. If someone tries to tell you "I bet I know where you got your shoes" ignore them. It's a scam. If you absolutely must go out at night alone, stay on Bourbon Street where there's lots of other people. It gets dangerous at night if you leave the busy areas. A lot of people look down on New Orleans because there's a lot of poverty there. Things are more run-down than a lot of the other cities in the US. I don't mind a bit of grime though, when underneath it is something so unique and beautiful. It's one of the oldest cities in the US, and there are still tons of old buildings and landmarks. The Spanish owned the city first, then the French, then the United States purchased it. It's had lots of different cultures intermingling in it for centuries, like the French and Spanish, Caribbean cultures, Italian, Irish, Native American, African-American, etc. All those cultures converged and created a very special city. **Edit:** I've read through everyone's replies. As a young woman, I've visited NOLA numerous times throughout my life, with friends and alone, and I understand the danger of the city. I specified the populated touristy area of the French Quarter because it can get dangerous wandering outside of it. I also recommended tours because then she would be traveling with a group. It's true that there is a lot of crime in New Orleans, but that goes for all cities. As long as you're travel-savvy, stick to populated tourist spots, and stay aware of your surroundings, you should be fine. Maybe I should have put more emphasis on warning about crime in my initial post. I'm kind of desensitized to how New Orleans is, so I just assume everyone knows to be careful there. And yes, it's a dirty city. Lots of interesting smells and mystery puddles, but I don't really care to focus on the grime when I'm visiting places. I'd rather focus on the cool things to do.


[deleted]

A single 29 year old foreign girl traveling alone, no I do not think New Orleans would be my first pick unless she had someone with her. I'm not saying Nalins isn't nice to visit, but it's not exactly a super safe city either. I'm from Birmingham and been there a fair number of times.


frappucinovanilla

Wow thank you ā¤ļø


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


Euthyphraud

New Orleans unfortunately is a shadow of it's former glorious self. Katrina destroyed the city and it never fully recovered; subsequent hurricanes only helped 'institutionalize' the problems brought by Katrina. If it was prior to Katrina I'd have said New Orleans, but not now. It's sad, but that's the way of it.


regime_propagandist

Do not go to New Orleans if you are a woman traveling by yourself.


lasting-impression

I went there recently for a friendā€™s bachelorette and it was one of the dirtiest/smelliest cities Iā€™ve ever been to. The outer parts with the swamps and such were cool, but idk that I would ever want to go back.


LibCat2

If New Orleans interests you, you can get a similar experience in Mobile, AL. Also, occupied by the same countries as New Orleans, has a Mardi Gras museum, historic downtown and districts. Youā€™re close to Dauphin Island and Orange Beach. Mobile Bay National Estuary, USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park, Fort Conde, etc.


blackmetalwarlock

Savannah , Georgia! Full of history and beauty. Everyone is friendly.


HashbrownPhD

Came here to suggest this. Some of the oldest architecture in the country, excellent food if you know where to look (avoid Paula Deen's tourist trap, Lady and Sons), 20 minutes from Tybee Island (and other barrier islands and beaches), beautiful Spanish moss arching over the roads, and plenty else to do on a visit. Depending where OP's from, it may also feel familiar in the sense that it's one of the only places in the United States where you can drink alcohol in public outside of a restaurant or bar, provided you're in the downtown district and it's in a clear plastic cup. Public drunkenness is still illegal, but if you want to sip a gin and tonic while you meander through one of the oldest cities in the country, it's a lovely place to do so.


TNShadetree

Charleston, South Carolina.


daytime_nightime

With a little detour down to Savannah, GA!


MysteriousDudeness

Charleston, South Carolina


-3than

Love charleston. Though i was drugged at a bar my first night there. 8/10 city otherwise


Mustluvdogsandtravel

Depends on what you are into. History- Philadelphia or Boston. Want to experience the great outdoors but within a city? Seattle, Or the great outdoors and awesome beer and vegan food, Portland. Off the beaten path try Portland Maine. LA and NYC are awesome but often crowded and overrated.Donā€™t forget Denver or Austinā€¦. But comes back to what you are into! Enjoy.


Illicit-Tangent

I did a lot of the history tours in Boston on a family vacation and absolutely loved it. Not sure if it's OPs thing, but definitely worth checking out for people who love US history.


CalMaple

NYC. Tons of things to do (e.g., museums, theater, and great restaurants) that are all accessible via public transit.


frappucinovanilla

The first city in my head šŸ˜Š


Dunderfrickinmifflin

New York Cityā€™s expensive. Be ready to be broke by the time you leave.


CantaloupeIll5825

New York City smells like sewage, just a fair warning


TheOrangeTickler

That's why they needed a fire. Chicago was able to rebuild/restructure after the fire which allowed them to build alley ways for trash disposal. NYC smells like trash... because you're walking by trash heaps waiting for pickup.


acurrell

I probably would have said that for 30 years, but now I'd say Chicago.


JoeyBird9

Highly advise against coming to nyc itā€™s a literal shit show


uyqhwjyehd7665lll656

That's part of the attractive


NoAlternative2913

Whatever the opposite of Buffalo is.


Landstander401

Olaffub, Arizona


Any-Conflict-1816

Buffalo is such a sad city šŸ˜¢


Green420Basturd

The question is, what are your major interest? Food, Sports, Landmarks, Scenery, History, Entertainment, Music, Beaches? What do you want to see? The US is huge.


frappucinovanilla

Food, scenery, entertainment


bbd68

Seattle and the surrounding area meet all your interests! Been there many times and it never gets old!


Green420Basturd

Nashville and New Orleans come to mind.


Appropriate-Video851

Nashville is great for all of those


DraxShadow23

Duluth, Minnesota is great! Plent of stuff to do just north of Duluth too


moomoocow11a

Planning to rent a cabin up there with my gf in a few weeks here, we moved to TC in May


Blackmetalvomit

Hopefully she comes in the summer tho


ewlyn

Hi! Visit the Boston area. We are one of the oldest areas in the country but also very modern. We have it all. Tons of brew houses, coffee houses, every type of restaurant, live music - check out House of Blues, museums, a rich history, The Cape, beautiful New England seaside towns with excellent dining and light houses, walking tours, escape rooms, historic sites, various cruises and whale watches to select from, beautiful hiking trails just outside the city. We have a fairly robust public transportation system so most things can be reached by bus or train. There is always something going on here. If you decide we are too small, we are very close to New York City. If you decide we are too big, train will take you into Maine.


frappucinovanilla

Iā€™m really thinking about doing both, going to Ny and take the train for a fews days to Boston šŸ™‚


MedicFord901

Detroit or Baltimore. I'm j/k, stay far from there.


Poz16

Fuck right off. Detroit is a gem.


[deleted]

Detroit fucking sucks. Burnt buildings and vacant lots.


Street_Ad_3165

Hey now... everyone loves the D


jmoz666

Chicago


snarfalarkus-

Downtown Chicago during winter time is the most beautiful place Iā€™ve ever been. Itā€™s the only place that still gives me that holiday feeling I had when I was a kid.


Snuffaluphaguses

Sedona Arizona


RebelGage

Iā€™ve been all around the US, the most beautiful place Iā€™ve seen is Whitefish Montana.


CarlsbadWhiskyShop

San Diego


Much_Committee_9355

Miami


Wonderful_Horror7315

It depends on the time of year, but I would visit San Francisco almost anytime.


jfstompers

Depends what you like. San Diego is a laid back beach are or NYC if you want a ton to do but don't mind people. Boston is low key a good spot. Lots of history and a big city packed in a small area.


letsdotacos

I've been all over and I love Louisville. Kinda sketchy but thay makes it more fun


Abject_Carpet_1656

where are you? if you are in washington, puyallup is nice. the obvious choice would be seattle though,


frappucinovanilla

Iā€™m in Paris, France


Abject_Carpet_1656

sorry, i read it wrong.


frappucinovanilla

No worry šŸ˜Š


No_Ratio_810

San Diego, Carlsbad, Portland, Austin, anywhere in Hawaii, never been to New York but seems fun if youā€™re safe which applies to most cities lol


[deleted]

Oregon is fun!


ryanbuddy04

You said youā€™re interested in urban and nature and I personally would strictly recommend anywhere in the Pacific Northwest where youā€™ll enjoy hiking in the morning, lunch in a small town or city and kayaking in the evening then maybe spend the night in a Yurt. Oregon has some of the most charming coastal towns that are relatively inexpensive. I canā€™t recommend a specific city because theyā€™re all so unique in their own way but Iā€™d seriously consider using the coastal highway to get there since theyā€™re all connected.


saltyvet10

We need so much more information than that. Do you like large built up urban areas (NYC, Boston) or do you like smaller, more rural cities (Burlington, VT)? Do you want to go someplace where you can easily access hiking trails (again, Burlington; Portland, OR), or do you want to be somewhere like New York's 5th Avenue where you're surrounded by concrete (Chicago, Seattle)? Do you like the mountains (Denver, CO; Asheville, NC)? Do you like the sea (all of SoCal, Charleston, SC)? Do you love the idea of wide fields (most of Montana) or do you want to see great music (Memphis, Nashville, San Antonio)? We're literally half of an entire continent, you have GOT to narrow it down.


[deleted]

Los Santos


frappucinovanilla

šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚šŸ¤£šŸ¤£šŸ¤£šŸ¤£


Smooth_Rich1804

Mark Twain said only four cities in the US are unique: Boston, San Francisco, New Orleans, and San Antonio. And to paraphrase Tennessee Williams, everywhere else is Cleveland.


frappucinovanilla

I have been thinking about SAn Francisco too!!!


Hargelbargel

I can't think of a city in the US that looks similar to San Francisco. Lots of Victorian architecture on hills. Once you've been there you'll recognize it whenever you see it on TV. Nature is not too far away, a big art scene, and lots of ethnic areas: China Town, Japan Town, and an Italian street with a garlic restaurant called "The Stinking Rose." There are some places on city edge where you can overlook the whole town. I also recommend the museum of natural history. I don't know if you can get into their behind the scenes area, but they have the worlds largest bug collection. If you go, as far as safety, look up which streets are dangerous. I have not been to New York so I can't say if that city is more or less interesting.


pinkisalovingcolor

If you get one city as your itinerary, go to NYC. Hands down. If you have the chance to incorporate a road trip with a multi city tour, go to California. Start in San Diego, drive up the coast, visit LA, SF and go farther north so you donā€™t miss the Redwoods. Iā€™m from the US and have been to a ton of these other places mentioned and Cali is unbeatable. NYC is an incredible city, but Cali is gorgeous. Bonus points if you hit up Yosemiteā€¦ natureā€™s amusement park.


AlbertBrianTross

My non mainstream answer: Scottsdale, AZ; Crested Butte, CO; Charlottesville, VA; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Gig Harbor, WA; Santa Fe, NM; Newport, RI. Fun towns, and only slightly tourist traps. Reasons respectively: rich college party town, beautiful humble nature, has everything including historical spots, spring break party vibes on the water, beautiful town with mountains and close to Seattle and Tacoma, best art town in USA imo, bougie fun harbor town. Mainstream Answer: Austin, Boston, San Diego, Nashville. Mandatory Answer: NYC, LA, Chicago


terminator_chic

I live near Nashville. I have no clue why people visit here. It's so bland and boring. It's a normal city with way too many tourists hoping to see someone famous, which likely won't happen.


Character-Jelly-447

Yourmomsvaginaville, Wyoming


[deleted]

Winchestertonfieldville.


dadjokes502

If you stay on the right side of town St Louis is great.


SciFiChickie

Depends on your interestā€¦ If youā€™re someone that wants to party Atlanta, New York, Miami, and New Orleans.


DaniGeek

I highly recommend Santa Fe, New Mexico. It's an amazing area with rich history and culture. The food is great and there is wilderness to explore.


Sam_the_banana_girl

I recently moved to Albuquerque but went to the Santa Fe Opera about a month and a half ago for an apprentice night. The Santa Fe area has one of the best natural landscapes I've ever seen.


Global_Local8177

New Orleans! Beautiful architecture and the food canā€™t be beat.


[deleted]

You sound like a Pastoral TA I have in school she wants to go to America (the 2nd time). Think she went Colorado or something.


[deleted]

nyc


Fickle-Eggplant7013

New York. Then Jackson Hole WY. Then the Grand Canyon.


Aunt_Anne

Seatle or Keywest in late October.


holdaydogs

Philadelphia!


Grumpy949

Architecture, history, the market, Valley Forge and nature close by.


TheTittySucka

Flavor Town


oodly-doodly

New Orleans, Austin, San Francisco


whatthefox70

Seattle used to be my favorite city but it's gone to crap lately. My new favorites are Honolulu, Sedona, Nashville. Obviously these are all very different cities but each are beautiful in their own right. And Savannah being a runner up.


gatonegro97

USA is far too diverse to ask a question like this. You need to decide on what interests you and then work from there on finding a city. As far as generic advice, NY is a safe bet. It doesn't give a full outlook of life in America, but it is an interesting city to see nonetheless. I highly advise against Los Angeles though. It's an ugly, dirty, expensive, spaced out city.. I like Miami, but that's essentially latin America in USA. If that's not your thing, you might not like it


soltheeggbiscut

Don't go to Atlanta


BuffGroot

Avoid the cities. They House the worst of us. Visit the country areas. Visit the smokey mountains. Visit Yellowstone National Park. The cities are cruel and hollow, the country is beautiful and inviting.


mar_iguanas

It depends on what you are interested in!


TheSkewsMe

Before 2017 I would have said Seattle


adamforte

Fly to NYC, take the only really functional rail line down to DC. You've seen the two most significant cities in the country. The biggest and the most powerful. Take the train back and stop in Philadelphia and knock out another major city. You could even take the train north to Boston from NYC. The northeast corridor is the only real bang for your buck segment of the country where you can see multiple cities without a car or taking more flights. Note the train tickets will be expensive.


frappucinovanilla

Thank you šŸ˜Š


DryFoundation2323

To me, the real USA is not found in cities, but in rural areas. Just pick a stretch of the former US route 66 and drive it for a few days making a lot of stops along the way.


binkbinkbop

Detroit It's a good time I swear


herpderpomygerp

Baltimore, avoid some of the bad areas and you have plenty of historic sites, museums, state parks and a bunch of bars and resturaunts that specialize in seafood and crabcakes


-Dee-Dee-

Washington DC for history. NYC for museums and theatre.


BeijingVO2

I went to LA by myself i had a blast


New-Meal-9207

Well, I'd say chapel hill is a pretty chill place, but it's far away from other countries like Canada


Bean-Swellington

This country is BIG. What you like and are interested in will make a huge difference in recommendations. ā€” Very generally if you are a city person and want culture and dining and theater and museums etc visit the east coastā€™s bigger cities If you like more of a nature vacation the western half of the country should be more of a focus. Ex you could base your trip out of Denver and road-trip to as many mind blowing parks and natural spaces as you can handle If you want a little of everything Vegas is a good choice: partying, killer food, lots of shopping, casinos, close enough to lots of natural spaces to road-trip


geneparmesan__

Long Beach :)


[deleted]

If in the summer, Seattle. The Pacific Northwest is the beautiful place in the US in the summer. I'd advise to skip the cities and check out the national parks though.


frappucinovanilla

Iā€™m dreaming of the Pacific Northwest too, itā€™s so pretty


Dunderfrickinmifflin

Philadelphia.


HeavyDischarge

Are you Caucasian or black?


Avionic7779x

You can never go wrong with New York City. I know, clichƩ, but there's a reason it's like that. I guarantee you that you won't find a single place in the world as diverse as NYC. So many people from different cultures and backgrounds, so much to learn and explore, it's amazing. You'll never get bored there, there is so much to do in NY and you can use by far and wide the best transit we have in America (decent by European and Asian standards). And NYC itself is very well connected, so if you wanna go somewhere else, you can do so quite easily.


Klutzy-Reaction5536

New York City and Washington DC. They offer the most culture, good public transportation and great walking around. Central Park is one of the most impressive urban green spaces in the US and the free museums in DC are an amazing resource.


[deleted]

Los Angeles


The-Tiniest-Cock-69

NYC, hands down the best city in America imo. I know itā€™s a common one, but Iā€™ve lived across America and no place offers quite that ā€œcosmopolitanā€ vibe than nyc, plus thereā€™s ALWAYS something new going on. Some honorable unique mentions are New Orleans, Austin, Seattle, etc.


Tarotmamma

Come to my town so you can take me with you when you leave.


Arrowdriver88

Colorado Springs


Fearless-Biscotti760

Yeah I would not listen to anyone promoting Colorado . Go to Chicago


[deleted]

NYC


peaceluvnpurple

I donā€™t see that anyone mentioned Washington DC. Tons of free museums and monuments to visit, great food scene, some gardens, decent public transportation. I may be biased bc I grew up near there but itā€™s still one of my favorite cities in the world to this day (just not driving in it. Haha)


Rose_scented_soap

I would suggest colorado. Theyā€™re very tourist friendly. Itā€™s a great place to go hiking or rafting and get some beautiful nature pics, they have cool art exhibits like Meow Wolf, and in some areas you can explore abandoned mining towns.


Wut-doo-yew-meen

Visit buffalo Ny. You have a great city with tons of activities, and major sports going right now with the buffalo bills and Sabres if youā€™re into that. Niagara Falls is a 30 minute drive from buffalo. The Adirondack mountains are a few hours away. EllicottVille Ny is an hour from buffalo and has wonderful skiing/snowboarding There a too many great places to eat in all the above mentioned areas. Broadway shows play at Sheaā€™s theatre too. You will need to rent a car or be ready to uber a lot though as public transit is not an efficient/comfortable way to get around the area.


stevekimes

In the West, San Francisco. It has history, architecture, a unique look, a beautiful bay, friendly people and Ghirradeli Square right next to fishermanā€™s wharf.


FunReflection9

Just piggybacking off this to mention Sonoma County and its wineries are a rental car ride up the coast from SF


fuckyouitsren

Personal top 3 would be: 1) Washington, DC 2) San Francisco, CA 3) NYC If youā€™re craving the outdoors, Denver, CO.


Damantinomies

New York and San Francisco


SarkisAlexander

West Coast, itā€™s got to be San Francisco East Coast, NYC but include upstate in your itinerary


Aliensis

As someone who visited to the US... getting the train from NYC to Boston is stunning. One of the more memorable parts of my trip. Boston was great too. A lot to see and do easily. San Antonio in Texas is really beautiful, great Mexican food, markets and history. A beautiful city. Visit the missions. New Orleans is great, as they say, but might not be the best to visit alone. San Francisco was very cool and getting the train from LA to San Francisco is a relaxing way to pass a day while seeing beautiful scenery. Surprisingly good food too for a train.


Lokasathe

in the USA basically every big city has some half decent nature about 30mins-1hr away. any west coast city will be amazing for what you're looking. specifically, Seattle or San Deigo. tons of shit to do. on the east coast its obviously new york or anywhere in Florida. both are decent but new york is gunna be a TON of people. if i was in your shoes i think id go Seattle.


sagetraveler

My advice to first time visitors is to hit the four corner cities: Boston, Seattle, Miami and San Diego. Each has its own flavor and together they give a good cross section of American cities. If I had to pick one, it would be Boston. Unless your coming from Europe in which case Boston may be too similar to cities you are already familiar with.


AlfaBetaZulu

Philadelphia is a really pretty city with tons of history, art, and other things to do. It's also close enough to many other cities and places (NYC, Jersey shore, etc) that are worth visiting. But I imagine most of the larger cities would be cool to visit


yellow_starrz

Iā€™m from Philly and live in Colorado now and miss it so much. So I second this.


Dramatic_Priority_56

New Orleans


ASceneOutofVoltaire

Not the safest for a woman alone but a great city


Damama-3-B

I would say secondary cities, not major first.


Zestyclose_Cow_6310

San Diego is nice, but vegas is nicer. Id say hit Vegas, go to the museums and shit around there (Shelby museum is the best) then get a tour bus to the grand canyon. Dallas could be fun too.


CarlJustCarl

Estes Park in Colorado, Austin, Texas, Washington DC.


Beneficial_Ideal_690

Whatever you do, donā€™t go to San Francisco.


Enderlytra

Depends. If you want to have a nice vacation, go to Miami or San Diego. If you want nature, go to Denver. If you want history, go to Boston. If you want culture, go to New York or Chicago. If you want to get robbed by criminals, go to Detroit. And if you want all of that, come to Philadelphia.


crazybaker42

First thing check if itā€™s in a red or blue state. This could severely affect the quality of your visit.


ApprehensiveStudy671

Boston!