The Best US Cities to Visit in 2024

America’s big cities have plenty of attractions — and crowds, too. This summer, we selected smaller cities that are not yet priorities on travel lists — places where you’ll find a small-town personality with plenty of style, plus plenty of things to see and do for a few days or more.

At the CNN Travel we tapped our network of contributors to compile our inaugural list of the best U.S. cities to visit in 2024. We evaluated the top picks and chose 10 finalists, looking at each city’s attractions, food and drink offerings, nightlife and cultural scene, sense of identity, proximity to other interesting sites, and wow factor. We also considered travel essentials like lodging options and ease of getting around.

The populations of the cities on this list range from approximately 50,000 to 225,000 residents. The cities are spread across the country and serve as a reminder of what’s great about America: communities committed to improving their cities. You’ll see this behavior in, for example, revitalized neighborhoods and downtowns.

Here are our picks for 2024

10. Duluth, Minnesota

High points: Lakeside setting, outdoor activities, drinking scene

A small town best known over the years as an industrial port shipping ore on the Great Lakes, Duluth has become a refuge from the climate crisis . Being located next to Lake Superior, the summers are quite mild. The mountain town offers plenty of outdoor activities, beers, a host of lakeside attractions and even a neighborhood that sells artisanal products. You can also join the friendly locals of Duluth in a community sauna and for a swim in Amity Creek.

9. Knoxville, Tennessee

High points: Cozy atmosphere, live music, access to nature

With a plethora of sports fans, you may know Knoxville as the home of the University of Tennessee, as the host of the 1982 World’s Fair (also known as the International Energy Exposition), and as the city’s glass tower. But did you know that this East Tennessee city also offers a thriving music scene, charming classical theaters, and delicious food? And then there’s the Urban Wilderness, a region with outdoor walks.

8. Grand Rapids, Michigan

Scores: Art and design, beer scene, outdoor activities

With a sculpture park and art park dotting the city, Grand Rapids is much more than “Beer City USA.” With more than 100 breweries, distilleries and cideries, Michigan’s second-largest city lives up to its nickname. Museums showcase Grand Rapids’ design roots, while the Grand River offers outdoor family activities. A planned riverfront amphitheater is part of the revitalization of the waterfront.

7. Macon, Georgia

High points: Musical heritage, cultural attractions, architecture

With museums and a revitalized music studio, Macon scores big points for cultural attractions and classic regional institutions. A downtown makeover has opened up space for new restaurants, bars, and a boutique hotel. By transforming a site that holds thousands of years of history into the nation’s first national park, the city is paying close attention to how its ancient history is informing its future.

6. Flagstaff, Arizona

High points: Dark skies, outdoor activities, scenery, retro atmosphere

Sunny days and starry nights are big draws in Flagstaff, a high-altitude city. With the San Francisco Mountains, national monuments, the Lowell Observatory, and Flagstaff’s status, it’s easy to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wonders of the cosmos. Route 66 runs through here, where retro hotels cater to travelers. The city’s downtown has also been revitalized. Plus, the area’s Native American history is another reason to visit Flagstaff.

5. San Luis Obispo, California

High points: Stunning scenery, retro vibe, outdoor activities, wineries

If you’re looking for a laid-back, vintage California experience, the Bay Area and Southern California wouldn’t be your ideal destination. But there’s a 20th-century destination that fits the bill: San Luis Obispo, where you can enjoy everything from wine trails to hiking without the crowds. The natural surroundings, with the proximity of the Pacific Ocean, are the icing on the cake.

4. Portland, Maine

High points: Gastronomy, coastal environment, access to the outdoors

The historic port city of Portland offers a culinary scene that explains why Maine is the lobster capital of the United States. With two new James Beard Awards, known as the Oscars of the food world, the state has become a culinary destination. You’ll also find a thriving craft beer scene, as well as waterfront and forest tours. You can learn about maritime history and see the Victorian Renaissance on a stroll through the city’s downtown.

3. Tacoma, Washington

High points: Stunning surroundings, outdoor access, arts scene

Between Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, Tacoma’s location provides plenty of outdoor recreation in and around the city. There are spectacular views in the city, too, thanks to native glassmaker Dale Chihuly. You can learn about the history of glass at the Museum of Glass, which has exhibits and glassmakers at work in workshops. Airplane tours offer great views of the Puyallup Tribe’s lands.

2. Providence, Rhode Island

High points: Art, architecture, design, food scene

The riverfront area of ​​downtown Providence is a result of decades of river and road relocations that have beautified and preserved the area. The downtown rivers have been illuminated by the WaterFire art installation for decades, and art can be found throughout the city. The area is also home to the renowned Rhode Island School of Design and its museum. Architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to admire. Providence’s culinary history (with world-class seafood and Italian cuisine) and diverse restaurants mean you’ll find a world-class feast here.

1. Richmond, Virginia

High points: Cultural attractions, food and drink, intriguing neighborhoods

Richmond, Virginia deserves more tourist attention. Richmond scores points for its museums and neighborhoods, as well as its complex past. It also has a diverse chef-led food scene, more than 30 breweries, and easy access to wine country. There’s a festival lineup nearly year-round — mark your calendars for the Richmond Folk Festival in the fall.