America’s downtown areas come with incredible features, including amusement parks, cultural attractions, and numerous historic buildings, some of which even house the world’s oldest restaurants. Some of these city centers are small, while others are some of the most stunning in the world.
Regardless of the size, downtown areas are the most significant parts of any town or city, and while each varies in vibrancy, architectural characteristics, and density, they possess unique features that make them worthy of exploring. These are the most beautiful downtown areas in the US that travelers exploring America should add to their itineraries.
10 Alexandria, Virginia
Founded in 1749, Alexandria is one of the most iconic destinations in Virginia. Mainly defined by Old Town, the city’s downtown is one of the most beautiful downtowns in America. It is a nationally recognized historic spot boasting some of the most stunning waterfront views, architecture, and charming streets lined with historic buildings, shops, and delicious restaurants.
Included in the list of the U.S. “Great Streets", the main King Street, is one of the most spectacular streets to stroll through. Some of the top attractions to see in downtown Alexandria include Carlyle House Historic Park, Spite House, and Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum.
- Best things to do in Alexandria: Stroll down King Street, admire the architectural wonders, and go shopping in one of the Old Town's colorful boutiques.
9 New York City, New York
New York City’s skyline is known to be one of the most striking, and when it comes to beautiful downtown areas in the country, Downtown Manhattan definitely makes it to the top, thanks to the defining Times Square, which is home to some of the top attractions in NYC.
It is one of the biggest downtowns in the US with a lot to offer, including an incredible dining scene, spectacular street art, plenty of shopping opportunities, vibrant nightlife, and of course, Central Park, one of the most beautiful city parks in the US.
- Best things to do in Downtown New York City: Shopping, nightlife, exploring the dining scene, marveling at the street art, and visiting Central Park.
New York City is one of the most expensive cities to visit in the world, but it doesn't have to be for every tourist. There are plenty of low-cost and free things one can enjoy during a visit to the city, including visiting public beaches, such as Manhattan Beach.
8 San Diego, California
Home to the bucket-list-worthy Balboa Park, among the USA's best urban parks, San Diego has one of the prettiest downtowns in the US. Downtown San Diego offers more than 70 miles of breathtaking coastline that boasts some of the best beaches in California.
The place is a dream vacation spot for many and offers numerous experiences that suit everyone. Downtown San Diego has impressive cultural attractions, delicious restaurants serving multiple cuisines, and a fantastic art scene. The area is also home to some of the best amusement parks in the US, including SeaWorld and LEGOLAND.
- Best things to do in San Diego: Amusement parks, Balboa Park, and exploring the diverse art scene
7 Walla Walla, Washington
Walla Walla is one of the most beautiful towns in Washington State to visit, and the downtown area, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is delightful to explore. It is brimming with fascinating history and an amazing wine culture.
It is one of America’s most underrated wine towns, and its downtown area boasts over 20 wineries that vacationers can explore. The historic downtown of Walla Walla boasts some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the US, along with friendly people. Plus, dogs are allowed in almost every place.
- Best things to do in Walla Walla: Wine tasting, nature walks, historic sites
6 San Francisco, California
Every vacationer would definitely fall in love with San Francisco's atmosphere, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area. Downtown San Francisco is one of the most breathtaking hubs in the United States and comes with incredible features, including an adorable geographical position, beautiful bridges, stunning streets lined with charming historic buildings, and attractions of all tastes.
There are plenty of fun things to see and do in the city center, including trying some of the most delicious restaurants, exploring the vibrant nightlife hotspots, attending concerts, and visiting the city's museums. In fact, some are among the oldest museums in America.
- Best things to do in San Francisco: Exploring the delicious restaurants, attending concerts, partying, and visiting the museums.
5 Chicago, Illinois
Famous for having the best pizza in the US, Chicago is home to one of the top downtowns in the US that's also super pretty; the area is a vibrant city center with a bustling art and cultural scene that tourists love to explore. It is home to some of the most stunning architectural wonders in the country, too.
The city has plenty of entertainment options, including numerous theaters, such as Nederlander Theater and the District’s Cadillac Palace Theater. Some of the best things to do in downtown Chicago include engaging in romantic walks along the Chicago Riverwalk, trying some of its culinary delights, exploring the art galleries, and spending time in its most iconic attractions, including “The Bean,” Lurie Garden, and Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
- Best things to do in Chicago's Downtown Area: Visiting the theaters, strolling through the streets, walking along the Chicago Riverwalk, and exploring the art galleries
4 Burlington, Vermont
Burlington is famous for being one of the coolest college towns in America, and its city center is one of the most attractive downtown areas in the US. The area is home to beautiful red-brick buildings, including government buildings, and some of the most impressive churches in the country.
There are plenty of things to do in Burlington, including marveling at the natural scenery, thanks to its location on the shore of Lake Champlain. The downtown area has some of the striking attractions, Church Street Marketplace and Burlington Waterfront Park.
- Best things to do in Burlington: Visiting Burlington Waterfront Park and Church Street Marketplace
Downtown Burlington is one of the most walkable cities in the US. It is also one of the USA's most bike-friendly cities. This gives tourists plenty of affordable options for getting around the city by walking or cycling.
3 Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is one of the oldest cities in America, as it dates back to the 1600s, and travelers will feel its charm the moment they stroll along its cobblestone streets. It offers one of the most beautiful downtowns in the US and is home to impressive streets lined with breathtaking skyscrapers, historic buildings, and gorgeous architectural styles from the 17th century.
Strolling along the streets takes visitors back to major historical events, such as the American Revolution. Some of the top attractions in Boston include the Old State House, Boston Common, and the Boston Public Garden.
- Notable attractions in Boston: Old State House, Boston Common, and the Boston Public Garden
2 Boise, Idaho
Boise is famous for being an incredible mountain destination in Idaho, but much of its charm is due to its stunning downtown area. Many people have been migrating to settle in Boise, and one of the main reasons for that is the beauty and the unique atmosphere of its downtown area.
The area is known for having incredible art and cultural scene, delicious restaurants, outdoor opportunities, and hosting some of the most exciting events and fun family adventures. Some of the most beautiful attractions to explore include Basque Museum and Culture Center, Idaho Black History Museum, and Idaho State Capitol.
- Notable Attractions in Boise: Basque Museum and Culture Center, Idaho Black History Museum, and Idaho State Capitol.
1 New Orleans, Louisiana
Downtown New Orleans is one of the most stunning and historic downtowns in the US. It's particularly famous for being the birthplace of Jazz, and wonderful memories are guaranteed for history buffs, music lovers, and art enthusiasts. The heart of downtown New Orleans is the French Quarter, the city's oldest neighborhood, which is popular for its incredible festivals, such as Mardi Gras.
Strolling along Bourbon Street, lined with fantastic eateries, dancing joints, and top-notch bars, is one of the top things to do in New Orleans' downtown area. Jackson Square, which dominates the heart of the French Quarter, is another spot not to miss, as it offers an incredible art scene and stunning views of the Mississippi River.
- Top attractions in New Orleans: Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and Court of the Two Sisters.
There are plenty of summer festivals in New Orleans not to miss, including Tales of the Cocktail, Satchmo SummerFest, and Red Dress Run.