The United States has numerous cities that are major tourist destinations, but the exact number depends on how “top” is defined. Here’s a list of some of the most popular tourist cities in the USA, known for attracting millions of visitors annually:
Top 10 Tourist Cities in the USA:
- New York City, New York
Iconic attractions: Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway. - Las Vegas, Nevada
Famous for: The Strip, world-class casinos, shows, and nightlife. - Los Angeles, California
Highlights: Hollywood, beaches, theme parks like Disneyland. - Orlando, Florida
Known for: Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other theme parks. - San Francisco, California
Attractions: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf. - Chicago, Illinois
Highlights: Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Art Institute of Chicago. - Miami, Florida
Famous for: Beaches, Art Deco architecture, vibrant nightlife. - Washington, D.C.
Attractions: National Mall, Smithsonian museums, U.S. Capitol. - Honolulu, Hawaii
Known for: Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, and lush landscapes. - New Orleans, Louisiana
Famous for: French Quarter, live jazz, Mardi Gras celebrations.
Other Popular Tourist Cities:
- Boston, Massachusetts
For history buffs: Freedom Trail, historic neighborhoods. - Seattle, Washington
Known for: Space Needle, Pike Place Market. - San Diego, California
Highlights: Beaches, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park. - Austin, Texas
Famous for: Music scene, cultural festivals. - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Known for: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall.
There’s no official count of “top tourist cities,” as it depends on factors like popularity, attractions, and tourism data. If you’d like more specifics about these cities, keep reading our blog.
The most visited countries by international tourists are:
- France: Approximately 100 million visitors.
- Spain: Around 85 million visitors.
- United States: About 67 million visitors.
- Italy: Approximately 57 million visitors.
- Turkey: Around 55 million visitors.
- Mexico: About 42 million visitors.
- United Kingdom: Approximately 37 million visitors.
- China: Around 36 million visitors.
- Germany: About 35 million visitors.
- Greece: Approximately 33 million visitors.
As of 2024, the most popular holiday destinations among travelers include:
- Spain: With 31% of travelers visiting, Spain remains a top choice, offering diverse attractions from vibrant cities to beautiful beaches.
- France: Known for its rich culture and iconic landmarks, France continues to attract a significant number of tourists.
- Italy: Italy’s historical sites, art, and cuisine make it a perennial favorite among holidaymakers.
- United States: Offering a wide range of experiences from bustling cities to natural wonders, the USA remains a popular destination.
- Greece: With its stunning islands and ancient history, Greece continues to captivate travelers.
- Portugal: Portugal’s unique combination of old-world charm and contemporary sophistication ensures visitors return year after year.
- Turkey: Turkey’s rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes make it a sought-after destination.
- Malta: Malta’s rich history, stunning architecture, and Mediterranean charm have made it a rising star among holiday destinations.
- Netherlands: Known for its picturesque canals, tulip fields, and vibrant cities like Amsterdam, the Netherlands attracts many visitors.
- United Arab Emirates: With modern attractions and luxury experiences, the UAE, particularly Dubai, is a popular choice for travelers.
These destinations offer a variety of experiences catering to different traveler preferences, from cultural explorations to beach vacations.