Traditional city ranking benchmarks such as the U.S. News & World Report and Forbes consider conventional factors such as value for money, quality of life, job market, and desirability. But how about adventure-based exploration, such as scaling skyscrapers that tickle in the clouds, fine dining, golfing or getting lost in vibrant streets that explode with color? This article goes beyond the traditional tourist hotspots and highlights X cities that boast unique experiences you wouldn’t find anywhere else.
New York City has been a travel staple for decades, often ranked among the best cities to visit in the US by multiple publications. As the nation’s largest city, it boasts many world-class museums, iconic attractions, and vibrant energy. Enjoy the city’s incredible skyline and take the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, or the recently opened SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. You could also catch a Broadway show, wander through Central Park, stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge, or just stroll around the boroughs.
If you’re looking for something more unique away from the main tourist hotspots, New York City has no shortage of options:
Thanks to the city’s attractiveness as a global icon, tens of millions (surgeons, schoolteachers, lawyers, and people from all walks of life) visit New York annually. The city’s Tourism Agency estimates about 63.3 million visitors in 2023 alone, with a higher number expected in 2024.
San Francisco is a perennial top contender with a special place in the hearts of many travelers. The city’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge is a globally recognized landmark. You also get a unique taste of cable cars scaling up steep hills and colorful Victorian houses. What’s more? Visitors here can Explore diverse neighborhoods, from bohemian Haight-Ashbury to historic Chinatown, all offering a vibrant cultural tapestry. Savor fresh seafood, Michelin-starred meals, or casual eats, then step into world-class museums or hike stunning landscapes within Golden Gate Park or along the rugged coastline. This innovative city with a progressive spirit caters to the discerning traveler's needs.
New Orleans has long been the top of Louisiana’s tourist destinations, thanks to its unique cultures, distinct personality, museums, and attractions. However, in recent years, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has become an emerging favorite for Americans and foreign visitors looking to explore this part of the country. Those seeking a unique experience will find Baton Rouge a hidden gem, with a rich history and culture, sports venues, festivals and events, nature and outdoor activities, and proximity to New Orleans. The city is also a foodie paradise that is famous for its cuisine. Consider visiting this southeast city (also the fifth largest city on the Mississippi River and home to Louisiana's largest parish) to enjoy classic Cajun and Creole cuisine like jambalaya, gumbo, and po’boys.
Houston, Texas, does not usually come into mind when talking about the top cities to visit in the U.S. But if you are looking for a unique adventure and are a big fan of space science, this is just the place to vacation. The city was the heart of the nation’s space program and remains an epicenter for space exploration. You might want to visit the Johnson Space Center to see rockets, astronaut training facilities, and historical artifacts. You may also enjoy a simulated space mission or visit NASA’s Street Art Project (which features fascinating murals depicting famous astronauts, rockets, and space scenes to create an open-air gallery with a cosmetic theme). Other reasons visitors may want to explore Houston, TX, include its renowned museum district, culinary varieties, and cowboy culture.
Honolulu (pictured), on the Hawaiian island of Oahu, ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable US vacation. Most visitors are awed by the world-famous Waikiki Beach's soft sand and turquoise waters. But Honolulu has more to offer than just stunning beaches. There’s a rich cultural heritage here, from Pearl Harbor's poignant history to delicious Hawaiian cuisine. Within a short distance of the city, hike through lush rainforests or explore volcanic landscapes. Honolulu gives the discerned traveler a blend of big-city excitement, breathtaking natural beauty, and authentic Hawaiian charm.
From the heart-pounding energy of New York City to the otherworldly landscapes of Hawaii, each destination promises an adventure unlike any other. So, try to keep them in mind when you’re planning your next retreat.
