The Top 15 Cities in the United States in 2018
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.
Related: The 2018 World's Best Awards
Carmel-by the-Sea, one of two West Coast entries, has broken into the top 15 for the first time in years. The California town measures a little over a square mile, but it packs a lot into its size, from intriguing boutiques housed in storybook cottages to art galleries and wine-tasting rooms. And with the ocean close by, it’s a paradise for fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers. “Carmel is a magical little place surrounded by some of the most amazing landscapes in the country,” writes a fan. “It’s pricey but worth it.”
As in past years, the South continues its charm offensive, with eight cities appearing on the list. Savannah wins readers over with meticulously preserved architecture, winsome gardens, and inviting inns. New Orleans is a foodie mecca, with endless variations on gumbo, po’ boys, and shrimp. Readers call out Asheville, North Carolina, for its crisp mountain air, lively music venues, and an artsy vibe that recalls the heyday of San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury. “Asheville is a happening place with great local beer, chocolate, potato chips, and just about anything having to do with food,” writes one reader. “It’s still a good value, but hurry — it’s getting very popular.”
Which Southern city continues to beguile our readers year after year, maintaining the top spot in our list for six years running? Read on to find out, and see how the other 14 winners scored with our readers.
14. Boston
Score: 79.61
2 of 15
13. Austin, Texas
Score: 80.93
3 of 15
12. Williamsburg, Virginia
Score: 81.00
4 of 15
11. San Francisco
Score: 81.02
5 of 15
10. Honolulu
Score: 81.04
6 of 15
9. Nashville
Score: 81.22
7 of 15
8. Asheville, North Carolina
Score: 81.54
8 of 15
7. San Antonio, Texas
Score: 81.62
9 of 15
6. Chicago
Score: 83.07
10 of 15
5. New York City
Score: 83.38
11 of 15
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Score: 85.06
12 of 15
3. Savannah, Georgia
Score: 85.48
13 of 15
2. New Orleans
Score: 85.71
14 of 15
1. Charleston, South Carolina
Score: 87.79
The jewel of the South Carolina coast has crowned our list of favorite American cities since 2013. But that doesn’t mean the Lowcountry destination isn’t evolving. Thanks to an influx of business, Charleston is bustling with revitalized energy. A new generation of restaurateurs, helmed by Sean Brock of Husk and McCrady’s, is turning the city into an international food destination. Writes one reader: “I love the history, the art, the grits, and the proximity to Kiawah and other beautiful coastal areas. This is the perfect city for a girls’ weekend, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway.”
See all of our readers' favorite hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2018.