Whether you want to take in the nice weather in the sunbelt or explore the history and ever-thriving culture in the northeast, American cities have a lot to offer from coast to coast. While everyone’s favorite U.S. city will vary depending on what factors matter the most to them, there is no denying that the cities on this list are all making a big impact in U.S. culture today and are worth visiting at least once. Here are my top 10 United States cities.

10. San Antonio, Texas

One of the many gems in the Lone Star State opens up the list at number 10. The city has a beautiful and underrated river walk along with some rich history, which includes being the site of the Battle of the Alamo. Not to mention, the Tex-Mex cuisine here is outstanding. I highly recommend a meal at Tito’s Mexican Restaurant in the King William District which is popular among locals and tourists alike.

9. Charleston, South Carolina

A big city with excellent weather and southern charm, there is something for everyone in Charleston. Whether that is the amazing seafood or exploring the many historic landmarks such as Fort Sumter which is in the middle of Charleston Harbor, or the Old Exchange to learn about the darker side of American history. You can also take a “haunted” walking tour and learn more about the figures of Charleston’s past in which you might even encounter a spirit or two.

8. Washington, D.C.

Where some of the most significant history of our past meets the present day and modern politics. Take a walk through the National Mall to see some of the most historical and beautiful government buildings in the world like the Capitol and visit memorials of prominent figures such as Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln. Even though it might not be a big metropolis like some of the other cities on this list, you will never run out of things to do in Washington, D.C. and will learn much about many American originals, and how their values and visions for government continue to shape us in the present day

7. Los Angeles, California

You can take a walk through Hollywood and learn much about the history of modern film and pop culture. The Santa Monica pier and beaches along the Pacific also offer some beautiful scenery. L.A. is the second largest city in the country for a reason and visiting here will put you right in the middle of the California dream.

6. Seattle, Washington

Buy some fresh produce and other merchandise from the Pike Place Market and take a trip up to one of the most unique structures in the country at The Space Needle. The natural beauty here is also terrific as you get views of both the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier along with the rest of the Cascade Mountain Range.

5. Miami, Florida

Soak in the excellent weather and take in the beaches that stretch all the way to the Florida Keys. Miami also boasts some of the best Cuban food in the country as a visit to the Little Havana neighborhood offers unique art galleries, and has very friendly people. The cool thing about Miami is that it is one city in a giant metropolitan area in South Florida as it is just a short drive away from other big cities like Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach.

4. Boston, Massachusetts

There are so many fascinating things revolving around early American history to learn about in Boston. Take a walk on the Freedom Trail to see many old churches, museums, and houses from the Revolutionary period. Some of the most famous Americans from this time are also buried in Boston such as Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere. On top of the excellent history, the sports scene here is also amazing as you can visit Fenway Park which is the oldest stadium in Major League Baseball. Finally, make sure to try the lobster rolls here as a lot of the seafood (lobster especially) is as authentic as you can get.

3. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago was one of the big scenes of the jazz age during the 1920’s, and today boasts one of the best arts and theater cultures in the country. Not to mention it is also the birthplace of the modern skyscraper, meaning it has shaped American city development and will continue to for centuries to come. The food here is the best in the country as you can try the Chicago style hot dog, deep dish pizza, tavern style pizza, and Italian beef sandwiches. Chicago is a city that has had so much impact to help shape modern America and embodies the midwestern value of hard work.

2. San Francisco, California

San Francisco, and the Bay Area have made big impacts when it comes to the digital age and modern creativity. It has everything from a unique skyline, water, and mountains to also give it the best natural beauty. Walk along the piers of Fishermen’s Wharf to get some tasty west coast seafood and take a boat ride through the bay to capture the best views of an American Architectural masterpiece in the Golden Gate Bridge. Just like L.A. mentioned earlier, visiting San Francisco will help you experience the California dream.

1. New York City

There are no words to describe the immense history and impact that this city has had not only in America, but the entire world. The city offers something for everyone and no matter how much time you spend there, you will never run out of finding something new or unique. While many often attribute the skyline to the old architecture from the early 20th century, the skyline is still ever evolving with buildings like Hudson Yards which has the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. You can also see the new thin “super-tall” skyscrapers standing on Billionaires Row such as Central Park Tower and the Steinway Tower. Again, there are no words to describe the cultural, economic, and social impact this city has had. It truly is the capital of the world.