Skip to content

Top Navigation

Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
  • Trip Inspiration
  • Plan Your Trip
  • World's Best
  • Destination of the Year
  • A-List Travel Advisors
  • Cruises
  • Travel Tips
  • News
  • Food + Drink
  • Travel Accessories
  • Check-In

Profile Menu

Your Profile

Your Profile

  • Join Now
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Help
  • Logout
Login
Subscribe
Pin FB

Explore Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
  • Explore

    Explore

    • World's Best

      The greatest islands, cities, hotels, cruise lines, airports, and more — as voted by you. Read More Next
    • The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2020

      Whether you're traveling solo or planning a family vacation, here are the 50 best places to visit in 2020. Read More Next
    • Let's Go Together Podcast

      Start listening to T+L's brand new podcast, Let's Go Together! Hosted by Kellee Edwards. Read More Next
  • Trip Inspiration

    Trip Inspiration

    • Trip Ideas
    • Weekend Getaways
    • Spring Travel
    • Summer Travel
    • Fall Travel
    • Winter Travel
    • Solo Travel
    • Romantic Getaways
    • Luxury Travel
    • Beach Vacations
    • Adventure Travel
    • Road Trips
    • Family Travel
    • National Parks
    • Holiday Travel
    • Travel Photography
    • Photo of the Day
    • Culture and Design
  • Plan Your Trip

    Plan Your Trip

    • Travel Guides
    • Flight Deals
    • Travel Deals
    • Ways to Save
    • Hotels + Resorts
    • Attractions
    • Amusement Parks
    • Disney Vacations
    • Festivals + Events
    • Airlines + Airports
    • Buses + Trains
    • Ground Transportation
  • World's Best

    World's Best

    • Top Hotels
    • Top Cities
    • Top Islands
    • Domestic Airlines
    • International Airlines
    • Tours
    • Safaris
    • All World's Best
  • Destination of the Year
  • A-List Travel Advisors
  • Cruises

    Cruises

    • Find A Cruise
    • Caribbean Cruises
    • River Cruises
    • European Cruises
    • All-Inclusive Cruises
    • Family Cruises
    • Alaskan Cruises
    • Disney Cruises
    • See All Cruise Vacations
  • Travel Tips

    Travel Tips

    • Travel Trends
    • Packing Tips
    • Points + Miles
    • Budgeting + Currency
    • Customs + Immigration
    • Responsible Travel
    • Travel Etiquette
    • Travel Warnings
    • Weather
    • Mobile Apps
    • See All Travel Tips
  • News

    News

    • Wellness
    • Celebrity Travel
    • Animals
    • Jobs
    • Offbeat
    • See All News
  • Food + Drink

    Food + Drink

    • Restaurants
    • Wine
    • Beer
    • Cocktails + Spirits
    • Bars + Clubs
    • Celebrity Chefs
    • Cooking + Entertaining
    • Food Fairs + Festivals
    • World's Best Restaurants
    • See All Food + Drink
  • Travel Accessories

    Travel Accessories

    • Travel Bags
    • Shoes
    • Travel Tech
    • Shopping
    • Style
    • Gift Guides
    • See All Travel Accessories
  • Check-In

Profile Menu

Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
Your Profile

Your Profile

  • Join Now
  • Newsletters
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Give a Gift Subscription
  • Help
  • Logout
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. Home
  2. America's Favorite Places
  3. America’s Favorite Cities

America’s Favorite Cities

By Melanie Lieberman
October 20, 2017
Skip gallery slides
Save Pin
Credit: Getty Images
"Norfolk is a great place to live and to visit," said one proud Virginian. "The climate is mild and the art and culture scene is alive with momentum!"

Locals also loved the southern city's ample water views, central location, and friendly vibe. "[It's] an amazing, historic city with [a] vibrant downtown area," another noted.

Every year in our annual America's Favorite Places survey, we ask Travel + Leisure readers to dish about their hometowns — the place they grew up or have lived in and know better than anywhere else on Earth.

Unlike T+L's World's Best Awards, which encourages readers to weigh in on travel experiences across the globe, the America's Favorite Places survey is a way for locals to share what their hometowns do best. Readers ranked their hometowns and cities across a range of categories, from the friendliness of the locals to the quality of the pizza.

But to find out which hometown was most loved overall, we took a composite score of all the individual categories, from the top city for things to see and to do, to the one with the most exciting places to eat and drink.

And this year, the small city of Norfolk, Virginia took the No.1 spot in a number of categories. When people who live, or have lived, in Norfolk were asked about their hometown, they raved about how welcoming this port city is to tourists — and what a great place it was to grab a burger, sip a pint of craft beer, and even admire creative street art.

Related: America's Most Underrated Cities

"Norfolk continues to place a priority on public art as part of any major new development," explained one local, while more than a few pointed visitors interested in street art in the direction of the upcoming NEON District.

This year, small cities and major metropolises from every region in the country appeared on the list of America's Favorite Cities. Did your hometown make the cut?
Start Slideshow

1 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

20. Cleveland, Ohio

Credit: Getty Images

Readers spoke about a number of different things when describing why they love Cleveland. Some touched on the rising number of independent restaurants while others focused on the 81 miles of groomed bridle trails. "It's home," said one. "And better than you think."

1 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

19. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Credit: M. Edlow for Visit Philadelphia™

Locals take pride in living in the nation's only UNESCO World Heritage City. It also earned high marks for its culturally diverse food scene, world-class theater, historic attractions, and accessibility. "I love Philly because it is the perfect-sized city. It's generally walkable and easy to navigate, but still has that ‘big city' vibe in Center City."

2 of 20

3 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

18. Fort Worth, Texas

Credit: Getty Images

"I am so lucky to [have been] born in my favorite city," said one T+L reader. "You can't just talk about Fort Worth — you have to experience it. Come on down…we will get some sweet tea and my momma will make a brisket."

3 of 20

Advertisement

4 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

17. Portland, Oregon

Credit: Getty Images

This Pacific Northwest city charms with its incredible hiking trails, coffee scene, and bookstores. A number of readers raved about the sprawling Powell's Downtown bookstore, and the city's homegrown coffee roasters. "Coffee is almost religion in Portland," explained one local.

4 of 20

5 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

16. Washington, D.C.

Credit: Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

"Beautiful city with plenty of green space, great restaurants, landmarks, and monuments. [It's] a great place to visit and live," said one pleased local. This year, Washington, D.C. took the No. 1 spots for both free and cheap attractions as well as museums.

5 of 20

6 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

15. San Diego, California

Credit: Getty Images

"I didn't appreciate it until I moved away," one survey respondent lamented. "What I love is that San Diego gives you any kind of experience, from urban to country living and everything in between." San Diego was this year's No. 1 beach destination, and the top spot for year-round perfect weather.

6 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

14. Scottsdale, Arizona

Credit: Courtesy of Experience Scottsdale

This desert city is well heeled and affluent, and earned high marks for cleanliness, weather, and athleticism. "I live where people have their dream vacations," remarked one T+L reader.

7 of 20

8 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

13. Louisville, Kentucky

Credit: Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

Most famous for the Kentucky Derby, this southern river city is hailed for its friendly locals and strong bourbon scene (the Bourbon Trail has more than 50 distilleries within a 50-mile radius).

8 of 20

9 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

12. Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota

Credit: Courtesy of Visit Saint Paul

"It's a great place, especially for young adults looking for a [destination] that doesn't get a lot of spotlight. It's a blossoming arts city, with tons of museums, theaters, and artist-friendly spaces as well," raved a survey respondent. Locals recommend visiting between early spring and mid-autumn for the best experience.

9 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

11. New York City

Credit: Getty Images

Readers had strong feelings about New York City — many of them describing what an overwhelming, but rewarding, place the Big Apple is to call home. "I've moved out and returned," explained one born-and-raised reader. "Traveling has made me so much more appreciate of this city…you can do and get anything, anytime you want, and you cannot truly appreciate that until you leave."

10 of 20

11 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

10. Rochester, New York

Credit: Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

Readers had a lot to say about Rochester, describing this underrated city as a destination experiencing something of a renaissance. Outdoor activities are easily accessible in the nearby Finger Lakes region, while downtown, there's a refreshed public market, a number of craft cocktail spots — and even a voluminous, 96-foot waterfall.

11 of 20

12 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

9. Greenville, South Carolina

Credit: Getty Images

"Its proximity to major cities, as well as the views of the nearby mountains, make Greenville a jewel in South Carolina," explained one pleased local. Others remarked about the affordable and diverse food scene.

12 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

13 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

8. Nashville, Tennessee

Credit: Getty Images

Unsurprisingly, a vibrant music scene (including excellent karaoke bars) helped propel Nashville to the top of the list. It was also deemed one of the best cities in the nation for a bachelor or bachelorette party.

13 of 20

14 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

7. Indianapolis, Indiana

Credit: Lavengood Photography/Courtesy of Visit Indy

Locals love how surprised and impressed visitors are by Indy, which has a beautiful canal and striking architecture. Other reasons to love this Midwest city? Affordable prices and a friendly, accessible vibe.

14 of 20

15 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

6. Chicago, Illinois

Credit: Getty Images

Even lifelong Chicagoans admitted they hadn't seen and done everything in the city, which is an incredible destination for both foodies as well as die-hard sports fans. "There's something special about each season in Chicago," explained one T+L reader. "…even when it's blustery cold." Watch the Cubs or White Sox in the summer, and visit the Christmas markets during the holiday season.

15 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

16 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

5. San Francisco, California

Credit: Getty Images/EyeEm

Street art, public parks, and coffee were just a few points of pride for San Franciscans this year. And despite rising prices, locals still have a deep affection for their hometown. "Having lived all over America, there is no place quite like San Francisco," said one T+L reader. "It has culture, class, adventure, diversity, friendliness, year-round cool weather, tolerant attitudes, and endless things to do." Talk about a rave review.

16 of 20

17 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

4. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Credit: Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images

"Santa Fe is one of those very few American cities that still has its own uniqueness," one survey taker ventured. This Southwestern city has a small town feel, and is best known for its arts scene, galleries, and historic adobe homes. It also took the No. 1 spot for quirkiest city in the country this year.

17 of 20

18 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

3. Buffalo, New York

Credit: James Schwabel / Alamy

According to T+L readers, Buffalo is one of the best cities in the nation for pizza and ice cream — but it also has some of the finest green spaces and architecture. The city lays claim to seven Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structures.

18 of 20

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

19 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

2. New Orleans, Louisiana

Credit: Getty Images

"There is no other city like New Orleans. So much history. A beautiful city. The people know how to make visitors feel welcomed, said one T+L survey respondent, while another described its color, incredible food, and famous festivals. This year, NOLA took the top spot for bachelor or bachelorette parties, festivals, and dining and drinking.

19 of 20

20 of 20

Save Pin
Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message

1. Norfolk, Virginia

Credit: Flickr Vision/Getty Images

Norfolk leapt from the No. 4 city in 2016 to America's favorite place this year, earning top marks for things to see overall, the cleanliness of the city, and for the people, who readers described as smart, friendly, and welcoming to visitors. Sounds like a good reason to visit Norfolk.

20 of 20

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Melanie Lieberman

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook
Trending Videos
Advertisement
Skip slide summaries

Everything in This Slideshow

Advertisement

View All

1 of 20 20. Cleveland, Ohio
2 of 20 19. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
3 of 20 18. Fort Worth, Texas
4 of 20 17. Portland, Oregon
5 of 20 16. Washington, D.C.
6 of 20 15. San Diego, California
7 of 20 14. Scottsdale, Arizona
8 of 20 13. Louisville, Kentucky
9 of 20 12. Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota
10 of 20 11. New York City
11 of 20 10. Rochester, New York
12 of 20 9. Greenville, South Carolina
13 of 20 8. Nashville, Tennessee
14 of 20 7. Indianapolis, Indiana
15 of 20 6. Chicago, Illinois
16 of 20 5. San Francisco, California
17 of 20 4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
18 of 20 3. Buffalo, New York
19 of 20 2. New Orleans, Louisiana
20 of 20 1. Norfolk, Virginia

Share options

Facebook Tweet Mail Email iphone Send Text Message
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure

Magazines & More

Learn More

  • Subscribe this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Content Licensing this link opens in a new tab
  • Sitemap
  • Travel Guide Sitemap

Connect

Follow Us
Subscribe to Our Newsletters
Other Meredith Sites

Other Meredith Sites

  • 4 Your Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Allrecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • All People Quilt this link opens in a new tab
  • Better Homes & Gardens this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Insights this link opens in a new tab
  • Bizrate Surveys this link opens in a new tab
  • Cooking Light this link opens in a new tab
  • Daily Paws this link opens in a new tab
  • EatingWell this link opens in a new tab
  • Eat This, Not That this link opens in a new tab
  • Entertainment Weekly this link opens in a new tab
  • Food & Wine this link opens in a new tab
  • Health this link opens in a new tab
  • Hello Giggles this link opens in a new tab
  • Instyle this link opens in a new tab
  • Martha Stewart this link opens in a new tab
  • Midwest Living this link opens in a new tab
  • More this link opens in a new tab
  • MyRecipes this link opens in a new tab
  • MyWedding this link opens in a new tab
  • My Food and Family this link opens in a new tab
  • MyLife this link opens in a new tab
  • Parenting this link opens in a new tab
  • Parents this link opens in a new tab
  • People this link opens in a new tab
  • People en Español this link opens in a new tab
  • Rachael Ray Magazine this link opens in a new tab
  • Real Simple this link opens in a new tab
  • Ser Padres this link opens in a new tab
  • Shape this link opens in a new tab
  • Siempre Mujer this link opens in a new tab
  • Southern Living this link opens in a new tab
  • SwearBy this link opens in a new tab
Travel + Leisure is part of the Travel + Leisure Group. Copyright 2021 Meredith Corporation. Travel + Leisure is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation Travel + Leisure Group All Rights Reserved, registered in the United States and other countries. Travel + Leisure may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
© Copyright . All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.travelandleisure.com

View image

America’s Favorite Cities
this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.