The 10 best cities in America in 2025

What makes us great: 

New York City, the capital of hustle and bustle, is always changing—but that’s its super power. Its ephemerality is what keeps New Yorkers on their toes and lures them out to play. FOMO is real here because what pops up could be gone in the blink of an eye, from incredible public art displays like this giant pigeon on the Highline and foodie pop-ups from international chefs and Michelin-winning spots like El Califa de León from Mexico to special, one-night-only concerts like October’s surprise show from Coldplay. It feels like anything is possible here because it has been! That’s the spirit that makes NYC one of the best cities in the world. People come here to do big things. That’s why we have the coolest attractions (like the northern hemisphere’s highest observation deck, Edge) and vibrant neighborhoods, from Riverdale to Coney Island and everywhere in between.

Visit now because: 

New York City is becoming a sports destination! Its WNBA team, the New York Liberty, just won the championship for the first time in its history and the Yankees are in the World Series. Not only that, last year, the New York Rangers hockey team made it to the Stanley Cup playoffs, and in 2025, FIFA Club World Cup championship will be played at MetLife Stadium followed by the World Cup final there in 2026. It’s a great time to be a sports fan in NYC!

What makes us great: 

There are many reasons to fall in love with New Orleans, though its resilience is the first one that comes to mind. It’s been almost two decades since Hurricane Katrina, and this unshakeable city is now springing back following the attack on New Year’s Day, rallying around its joyful hallmarks. From its unique history and architecture to its iconic restaurants and bars, the thriving arts community, south Louisiana landscape and a live music scene like no other, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The rich culture of the city’s influences is on display around every corner—African-American, Caribbean, Spanish, Vietnamese, French, German and more—and there’s no better time to celebrate this diversity. New Orleans attractions like the Backstreet Cultural Museum, New Orleans African American Museum, Le Musée de f.p.c. and the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience dive into these diverse influences while a slew of annual festivals let you experience firsthand the traditions that are still going strong today. And the food scene? The Creole classics still shine, but newcomers like Dakar, Queen Trini, Acamaya and Fritai are mixing things up like only New Orleans can.

Visit now because: 

New Orleans will host Super Bowl LIX and with it comes a citywide glow-up (check out the new lights on the Mississippi River Bridge). Prospect 6, the triennial art exhibition, is sure to dazzle, as will the city’s newest hospitality offerings like Nobu at Caesars Hotel and Big Freedia’s forthcoming hotel/restaurant/swim club/music venue.

What makes us great: 

Chicago is known as the Second City but stands in the shadow of none. The world-class metropolis is home to renowned restaurants, iconic cultural institutions and endless things to do. Spanning 77 unique community areas, which are connected by a vast network of trains and buses, the city offers so much that one visit can hardly do it justice. In the summertime, catch top artists performing at massive music festivals like Lollapalooza and Riot Fest, or hear the roar of stock cars zooming around Grant Park during the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. As the temperatures dip, immerse yourself in the famed local comedy scene at the Second City or marvel at the Art Institute’s collection of more than 300,000 artworks. And the culinary landscape continues to thrive, spurred on by newcomers such as Maxwells Trading and Akahoshi Ramen.

Visit now because: 

Good news for Potterheads. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has settled in for a four-month residency at the James M. Nederlander Theatre as the award-winning play kicks off its first-ever North American tour.

What makes us great: 

What makes us great: As Angelenos continue to grapple with one of the most devastating disasters in a generation, it’s admittedly tough to think optimistically about the future right now. But before multiple fires broke this city’s heart, it was instead starting to fill with hope. With less than four years to go until the 2028 Olympics—and the ceremonial flag already here—L.A.’s far-off promises have suddenly edged that much closer to the present. This is a city where self-driving taxis cruise the streets and the transit system keeps expanding, with airport and high-speed Vegas connections on the horizon. That ambition extends to the city’s institutions, too, from a just-unveiled Natural History Museum wing to the upcoming debut of the Lucas Museum and a new campus at LACMA. It‘s not all about the future—the last year has seen the return of old favorites, like wine tastings at the Hollyhock House, a revived Echo Park Lake boathouse, and the rebirth of much-loved speakeasy bar Lucky Tiki. There’s also an unparalleled new arena for the city’s most overlooked sports team and a bike-friendly makeover of one of the world’s most famous boulevards. And, of course, the food scene continues to impress thanks to lauded new spots like Camélia and Azizam.

Visit now because: The Getty-funded series ‘PST ART: Art & Science Collide’ is staging themed exhibitions at more than 50 SoCal museums, including a spectacular show of Olafur Eliasson installations at MOCA Geffen, a colorful assortment of cinema costumes at the Academy Museum and futuristic Indigenous works at the Autry.

What makes us great: 

Washington, D.C., is famous for its politics and monuments, but it’s so much more than that—it’s a city brimming with soul. Sure, we have the iconic landmarks: the White House, the Washington Monument, and the Library of Congress. But beyond the marble facades lies a city rich with diverse stories and vibrant communities that make it truly one of a kind. It’s the birthplace of Duke Ellington, where his jazz legacy still thrives in clubs across town. Our museums? They’re world-class, free, and packed with everything from art to history that will leave you inspired. Take in a show at the Kennedy Center, grab a bite from one of the many food trucks, or dive into D.C.’s happy hour scene, where oysters and craft cocktails are practically a way of life. You might visit for the history, but you’ll stay for the culture, the flavors, and a city that always has something new to offer.

Visit now because: 

No matter the season, D.C.’s food scene delivers—think legendary steakhouses, iconic half-smokes, and the city’s beloved mambo sauce. Culture lovers can explore world-class (and free) museums and historic Chinatown or take a water taxi down the Potomac. In spring, Cherry Blossoms paint the city pink during the Cherry Blossom Festival. Summer lights up with Fourth of July celebrations on the National Mall, and winter sparkles with holiday magic, highlighted by the iconic National Christmas Tree.

What makes us great: 

When you need a break from the frigid cold but not all the perks of a major city, Miami is the answer. Our beaches are our unofficial ambassadors—who wouldn't want to bask under the shade of a frilly umbrella, drink in hand and the warm Atlantic lapping just beyond? But no matter the time of year, the Magic City beckons with its bumping nightlife, world-class cultural institutions and increasingly on-the-radar culinary scene. Beyond Miami Beach, our sprawl of mainland neighborhoods has also earned its share of the spotlight: discover the bohemian enclave of Coconut Grove, flamboyant Little Havana or the bustling arts district known as Wynwood. Whether your goal is to hang by the pool, get pampered at the spa, dine at the hottest new Michelin-rated restaurant or party until the sun comes up, you can achieve it all in Miami, even in a single day. They don't call it magic for nothing.

Visit now because: 

Winter and spring in Miami boast deliciously mild weather, with plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Major events like the South Beach Wine & Food Festival and Ultra Music Festival lure throngs of visitors this time of year, but for a more laidback journey, these cooler days are ideal for exploring our tropical metropolis' many parks, gardens and nature trails.

What makes us great: 

Austin’s unofficial motto, “Keep Austin Weird,” coined by Austin Community College librarian Red Wassenich in 2000, still rings true today. Sure, “weird” might be a subjective way to sum up an entire city, but you’ll feel it everywhere—from the quirky Museum of Weird on Sixth Street to hidden gems like Fairy Alley, a magical nook filled with fairy houses and whimsical trinkets. And if “weird” isn’t your thing, Austin’s got you covered: dig into award-winning brisket at one of its three Michelin-starred barbecue joints, watch over a million bats take flight at Congress Avenue Bridge or paddle along the serene waters of Lady Bird Lake. The best part? You can mix and match to craft your own Austin adventure—equal parts fun, flavorful and, yes, a little weird. 

Visit now because: 

Austin’s winter and spring months bring mild, pleasant weather, perfect for soaking up everything the city has to offer, minus the sweltering heat. This time of year is prime for events like South by Southwest, the ATX Open and the arrival of Bluebonnet season in late March. If you want to see Texas’ state flower in full bloom, head to McKinney Falls State Park or the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center for picture-perfect views that’ll light up your Insta feed.

What makes us great: 

While its significance as the birthplace of the American Revolution is obviously a feather in its tricorn cap, Boston is more than just a history book chapter. History buffs can still soak it all up on the celebrated Freedom Trail, but this walkable city boasts a seamless blend of yesteryear and modern day for everyone to enjoy. You’ll find innovative dining and shopping destinations housed in centuries-old brownstones, world-class art museums sharing the scene with NFT-driven galleries and contemporary exhibits, and an urban vibe that doesn’t betray its seaside local, with access to spectacular beaches, parks, whale watching cruises, and the HarborWalk. Our culinary scene exceeds the traditional New England clam chowdah, Yankee pot roast, and lobstah, with James Beard Award nods around every corner. It’s the birthplace of many firsts – the first public park, public beach, subway system, the Boston Cream Pie – and its diverse personalities are seen in our various neighborhoods: the vibrant Seaport District, eclectic and artistic South End, rough-and-tumble Southie, diverse up-and-coming Eastie, chic and trendy Back Bay, tony Beacon Hill, and more. Sure, you might come for a history lesson, but you’ll leave with much more.

Visit now because: 

Some cities hibernate during the winter. Boston embraces it. People don their down coats for outdoor excursions—from ice skating (both indoor and out), sledding down the hills, and dining in cozy outdoor igloos. Weather outside frightful? Grab a seat for a Celtics game on the big screen because this city bleeds green. And as spring ups the city’s curb appeal with cherry blossoms decorating brownstones and the Public Garden brimming with tulips and Swan Boats, the walkable city beckons you for a stroll.

What makes us great:

Business has been booming in “Big D,” transforming this North Texas city into a fast-growing financial hub. But visitors will also find that Dallas uniquely blends the old-world American Wild West with an increasingly diverse community: 23.6 percent of residents in Texas’ most populous metropolitan area were born outside of the U.S., meaning that great food from the world over is never hard to find. Head to Turan Kitchen to try Uyghur food, or keep things Texan at Cattleack BBQ. After, put on your cowboy boots–score a vintage pair at the Bella Hadid-approved antique store Dolly Python, in the heart of the bustling Bishop Arts retail district–and head to Cowboys Red River. This classic honky-tonk dance hall hosts free lessons if you’re new to Texas two-stepping. Though summers are blazing hot, you’ll still find plenty of people jogging year-round on the 3.5-mile Katy Trail or biking around White Rock Lake. And if the outdoors aren’t your thing, downtown Dallas’ acclaimed Arts District houses the Dallas Museum of Art, Crow Museum of Asian Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Dallas Opera, and Meyerson Symphony Center.

Visit now because:

Dallas winters mean indoor ice skating center of the Galleria mall. And in 2025, be sure to check out nonprofit Broadway Dallas’ season lineup of musicals ranging from classics like The Lion King to contemporary shows like &Juliet–no need to venture to New York City.

What makes us great: 

Although The Alamo and San Antonio are synonymous, there's much more to discover here, including four lesser-known Spanish missions: Concepción, San José, San Juan and Espada. A 16-mile hike and bike trail connects all five. On a culture quest?  San Antonio's Majestic Theater is jaw-droppingly gorgeous inside and out, and the calendar is packed with Broadway shows and other musical performances. The Witte Museum has permanent collections that tell the story of San Antonio's natural history and early settlers, plus a regular rotation of traveling exhibits. The McNay Art Museum houses an impressive collection of art, but the 1927-era Spanish Colonial-Revival mansion and grounds, once a private residence, is as dazzling as the paintings and sculpture. Hopscotch San Antonio is an indoor, immersive experience that combines local art with hands-on activities like frolicking in an LED ball pit for pure, whimsical fun.

From pints and lively piano tunes at Durdy Nellie's Irish Pub to the outdoor dining under Casa Rio's iconic colorful umbrellas, the famous Riverwalk offers infinite spots to eat and drink. The Historic Pearl, once a brewery and now home to the city's finest hotel, is a hub for foodies and is joined by S.A.'s new Creamery District, once a dairy plant in the city's Tobin Hill neighborhood. Both offer decidedly un-Texas options, such as French comfort food at Brasserie Mon Chou Chou and Easy Baby Underground, an underground lounge serving creative libations and spinning an eclectic mix of groovy tunes. The city's biggest party happens every April with Fiesta San Antonio, a 10-day celebration with over 100 events.

Visit now because: 

The World Heritage Center, set to open in February, will serve as a gateway to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and provide educational opportunities and information on the community's history, art, and culture. Early this year will also see the arrival of local favorite Chef Jason Dady's Mexico Ceaty, a 21,000-square-foot destination space offering four eateries, a stage for live music and art activations, a marketplace, and more.