The 20 Best City Breaks in the USA

When thinking about the 20 best city break destinations in the USA, I had to get a little help from my friends. I have collated all of my favourite US city breaks plus a bunch of cities recommended by other trusted travel bloggers around the United States. After reading this, you will no doubt be planning your USA city breaks for next year!

The 20 Best City Break Ideas in the USA:

… According to me and my travel blogging friends! I have put these in alphabetical order, purely for ease!

Boise

From Deb at The Visa Project

Boise is the perfect weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts looking to be in an urban setting. If you are travelling to the USA and looking for city breaks, Boise should definitely be on your list. Cycling or walking around the Boise river greenbelt is an excellent way to spend the day. It connects quite far along the River and comes with scenic views and wildlife. Rent a bike from Boise GreenBike or take a bike tour. Love hiking? Table Rock hiking trail and Old Penitentiary Trailhead are two great hikes very close to the city.

The Freak Alley Gallery is a large outdoor mural gallery with different styles of artwork and graffiti close to the downtown. Boise also has a vibrant microbrewery culture. The Bittercreek Alehouse and the Red Feather are a couple of places to add to your list. Immigrants from Basque country are a big part of Boise’s culture. Stop at the Basque Museum if you want to learn more about this unique culture.

Enjoy an amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure to discover the sights of Boise!

Hotels in Boise

There are many affordable hotel options in Boise. Try the affordable The Inn America, or the ever-reliable Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Boise.

Boston

Boston is a recent love of mine. We visited mainly due to my love of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, but ended up falling quite in love with the city for many other reasons. Learning about the American Revolution, enjoying Boston’s South End, and eating amazing food in Chinatown. Not to mention taking a day trip out to Salem – Boston is a near perfect city break option.

Stay at the AC Hotel by Marriott in South End for stylish hotel on the edge of Downtown.

Charleston

I loved the Low Country charm of Charleston. It has a great mix of historic sites, lively nightlife, and some great foodie spots highlighting low country cuisine. Take a walking tour around the French Quarter, a harbour cruise; or taste all the delicious barbecue food you can handle. Don’t forget to pay a visit to historic Fort Sumter too.

Before you visit, I recommend reading some of the excellent Charleston blogs from Jason at Road Trips and Coffee.

Lodging in Charleston

I would recommend staying in the Historic Downtown area of Charleston, if you can afford it. The lush Dewberry would be my luxury pick, or try the 3-star Francis Marion.

Chicago

There’s a reason why Chicago is a much lauded city break destination in the USA. The city’s architecture, the music culture, and public art are second to none. Spending 2-3 days in Chicago will have you wanting to come back for more. Top picks for a city break in Chicago include: visiting the 360 Chicago Observation deck, eating a deep dish pizza (Lou Magnati’s is my favourite); and taking an architecture boat tour (obviously!).

Hotel Recommendations for Chicago

The best place to stay with easy access to the river and lake is along Grant Park in the South Loop. The Hilton Garden Inn and the Best Western Grant Park, and Homewood Suites by Hilton are all on 11th Street and very convenient.

Denver

From Derek & Mike at Robe Trotting

One of the premier city break destinations in the United States is Denver, gem of the Rocky Mountain West. The Mile High city is perfect for anyone who loves all the excitement of a vibrant downtown area with nature, hiking and mountains at their disposal. A weekend in Denver is truly a perfect hybrid for anyone that loves a cosmopolitan getaway without being too far from nature.

Denver is easy to get around as the city has invested heavily in its downtown public transit and as the state capital, it’s well connected to the surrounding area by light rail. Uber is another easy way to get around the city, especially if you stay somewhere central like the Westin Downtown Denver.

One of the best things to do in Denver is enjoy the green spaces like City Park. The massive urban park even has a zoo, museum and ribbons of hiking trails. Just outside the city you can expand your hiking to nearby Cherry Creek or Roxborough State Park. Denver is also home to one of the world’s best craft beer scenes. It’s a city full of breweries so any city break should include some beer hopping along Denver’s beer trail. Afterward, there are plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants to enjoy the sun setting over the Rocky Mountains.

Huntsville

From Shobha at Just Go Places

You will be pleasantly surprised by all the things there are to do in Huntsville Alabama for a city break. Huntsville is best known for its NASA space center which is admittedly a very cool attraction for children and adults alike. Additional Huntsville museums include the famous Art Museum and Burritt on the Mountain, a living history museum of early Alabama life. Constitutional Village in downtown Huntsville recalls the writing of the first Alabama constitution in 1819. The Huntsville Botanical Gardens is also a popular tourist attraction (the third most visited tourist attraction in the state with the NASA space center taking the top spot). Many visitors also like checking out the extensive street art and murals in the city including some of which are interactive making them great selfies!

Downton Huntsville has a wide choice of restaurants from fine dining to food trucks. There is also a growing craft beer scene not only in downtown Huntsville but also at Campus No. 805, a former middle school turned into a food and drink space. The Huntsville Tourist Office has trails for specific interests such as a craft beer trail or a coffee lovers trail. 

Although Downtown Huntsville is easy to walk around, you will need a car to get around the rest of Huntsville.

Hotels in Downtown Huntsville

Hotels include the AC Marriott and Embassy Suites, which are situated on Big Spring Park and an easy walk to the Art Museum and other attractions.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas is definitely one of those bucket list USA city breaks. Experiencing the indulgence, craziness, larger than life nature of Vegas is perfect for a weekend away. Take in the view of the strip from the Stratosphere tower or catch live music on Fremont Street. Visit the Neon Graveyard, and experience a breakfast buffet with unlimited mimosas! Check out my beginner’s guide to Las Vegas, for all you need to know about Las Vegas.

Choosing a hotel in Las Vegas

There are so many hotels to choose from in Vegas. We have enjoyed the Stratosphere, and the Wynn Las Vegas.

Little Rock

From Portia at Pip and the City, and the Travel Goals Podcast 

A city break in Arkansas’ capital Little Rock is a sure-fire way to experience their thriving downtown, outdoor offerings and iconic attractions. Here, you’ll find best of the south with a vibrant foodie scene, a buzzing downtown and a historic feel.

Your first stop needs to be the dynamic River Market District. Featuring an impressive range of restaurants, shops, bars, nightlife, museums and hotels. This once disused area, full of condemned buildings has had millions of dollars’ worth of facelift to become hipster central. This is where the cool kids come to hang out, shop and relax. It’s also located right on the scenic Riverfront Park area. There are 33 acres of picturesque urban parkland to discover here, as well as a range of charming sculptures by local artists. 

For history enthusiasts, there is a wealth of historic sites and museums that explore the political and turbulent history of Little Rock. One of the best things to do in Little Rock is to take a trip to the Clinton Presidential Centre and Library. It’s a celebration of Little Rock resident and the United States’ 42^nd president, Bill Clinton. You could spend hours getting to know the man behind the Oval Office; with a range of documents and exhibits that give an insight into the day-to-day running of the White House.

Significant black history is explored at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Centre and EMOBA, along with the Central High School Museum, where nine African American students made history in 1957.

Love biking? Why not explore the 15 miles of the Arkansas River Trail by bike? Whizz through downtown, through gorgeous parklands, over bridges and enjoy scenic river views on two wheels. It’s the best way to appreciate the diverse neighbourhoods and parklands of the city for sure. 

Memphis

Memphis is a really well-rounded US city break. You have the buzz of Beale Street, amazing live music; as well as history and the beauty of the Mississippi River.

Dive into important black history at the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel – where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated. We spent nearly a full day here, and only scratched the surface. Nearby, the legendary Central BBQ restaurant makes for a tasty dinner after your visit.

Visit Overton Square, a lively arts, music and dining area outside of the centre. Enjoy the buskers and live music around the city. And make sure you take a ride on one of Memphis’s street cars!

Hotel Recommendations for Memphis

City break hotels which keep you near the action are: The amazing home of the duck parade, The Peabody; or try Hotel Indigo or MOXY Memphis, both near Court Square.

New Orleans

From eating hot beignets in the French Quarter, to taking a trolley to the Garden District, and doing a cemetery tour – New Orleans is a very convivial city for a weekend break. Late brunches, po’ boy sandwiches and flavourful creole cooking will keep your tastebuds sated. Don’t miss having a cocktail at the carousel bar at the Hotel Monteleone!

Hotel Picks for New Orleans

Staying in the Garden District is my recommendation – try the Maison Saint Charles or Hotel Pontchartrain.

New York

If you’ve never taken a bite of the Big Apple, you really should remedy that! NYC is heaving and frenetic, loud and chaotic. But it is also full of incredible art institutions and world class parks to find tranquility amongst the buzz. Even if you only have a few days in New York, you can pack a lot in. And much of it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. Walking across Brooklyn Bridge, taking the Staten Island Ferry, and cycling in Central Park are all free / cheap!

NYC Hotel Options

For lodging, Hell’s Kitchen is central and fun – try CitizenM for funky high end lodgings, or Ink 48.

Philadelphia

From Nichola at Family Hotel Expert

Philadelphia is a fantastic city for a weekend break, packed full of fun activities and with the coolest vibe. Take a wander or walking tour through the Historic District to see the Liberty Bell and Liberty Hall where the American Constitution was crafted. See the wonderful LOVE statue in Love Park and run up the steps of the Museum of Art like Rocky. Largely this is a city to wander through and it’s easy to get to many of the main sites in the centre by walking.

Get yourself a Philadelphia Sightseeing Pass to maximise your time in the city!

Stop for a Philly cheesesteak (or a vegan version at the fantastic Blackbird Pizzeria) or rest your feet and chow down on a hoagie. South Street is one of the best streets in the city, full of different cultures and with some great independent shops to peruse. Finally give yourself nightmares on a trip to Eastern State Penitentiary, an eery insight into the prison system of the past.

Some of the best hotels in Philadelphia for families or individuals are in the centre, such as the wonderful Rittenhouse Hotel to give you a fantastic stay on a weekend break in this wonderful city.

Portland

From Chrissy at Travel Passionate

If you’re a foodie traveler but have never been to Portland, Oregon, let me tell you, you don’t know what you’re missing! Home to epic doughnuts, incredible ice cream, tasty Reuben sandwiches, and a whole host of fantastic food carts, Portland is a food and drink-lovers’ paradise.

When you’re not dining out on delicious bites you can spend your time visiting the beautiful Chinese Gardens, browsing for books in the legendary Powell’s book store, exploring the boutiques of The Pearl District, or learning all sorts of new fun facts at The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI). In addition, there’s Washington Park, the historic Pittock Mansion, the hike to Witch’s Castle, and the array of vineyards and breweries to keep you entertained.

If you have a little longer for your city break, you can also tack on visits to the waterfalls of Columbia River Valley, go for a picnic on Sauvie Island, stroll around Forest Park or seek out some of the best street art around the city. If it’s your first time visiting Portland you’ll probably want to stay downtown (The Heathman) or in the Pearl District (Hampton Inn & Suites) so that you’re close to some of the best shops, bars, restaurants, and sights.

Salt Lake City

From Jessica at Skiing Kids

One of the best things about Salt Lake City is that you can have a city break; and enjoy nature at the same time.  You’ve got plenty of shopping, the Utah Jazz, the Utah Symphony, and lots of museums as well.  If you’ve got kids, head to the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, the free planetarium right around the corner. Or try the Natural History Museum of Utah, perfect for kids and adults alike.

In the winter, Salt Lake is famous for its skiing.  With 4 ski resorts within 30 minutes of downtown SLC, it’s one of the best places in Utah for a ski vacation too.

For lodging, try the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, Residence Inn, or the AC Hotel by Marriott. All of which are near the lovely Pioneer Park.

Why not stay longer in Utah and take a tour of some of the amazing National Parks and desert landscapes nearby! You can get private and group tours from Salt Lake to Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef National Parks + more!

Booking.com

San Antonio

From Ketki of Dotted Globe

San Antonio is one of the best cities to visit in the southwestern USA for many reasons. It’s premier attraction, the San Antonio Riverwalk, has beautiful architecture and seems more European than American. There are plenty of things to do on the Riverwalk: eat Tex Mex food on the San Antonio riverbank; buy souvenirs, take a cruise down the river, or go for a stroll. 

San Antonio is also popular for its missions including the famous Alamo. Visit the historic site to understand it’s importance in the battle for Texas’s independence. San Antonio also has many other museums, zoos, the sea world, the market, and vibrant neighborhoods like the Pearl District. 

The best time to visit San Antonio is from fall to spring; summers in the city are often too hot. Most of the attractions are concentrated around the Riverwalk, as are the top hotels in the city.

Hotel Recommendations for San Antonio

We recommend staying in the Riverwalk hotels such as The Westin or the Inn on Riverwalk B&B; so you can walk to most places of interest.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a sassy city. There is a grit about the place that I find very appealing. So much so that we eloped there in 2015! Visiting Alcatraz is a spooky must-do, as well as a ride on the fantastic restored cable cars. On a city break, I would recommend at least 4 days in San Francisco. The sheer scale of the city will keep you very busy. And that’s before you’ve even explored the surrounding areas like Napa and Sonoma, or Monterey (see below)!

SF Hotel Picks

Hotels around the Union Square and Lower Nob Hill area are convenient for all transport and attractions. I suggest the famous Westin Union Square, or the Marriott further up the hill.

> Monterey

From Maggie at The World Was Here First

One of the best places to visit on a city break from San Francisco is the city of Monterey on California’s Central Coast. Though you can easily visit Monterey as a day trip, it is also the perfect destination for a few days considering the vast amount of things to do in and around the city.

Known for its world class aquarium, no visit to Monterey is complete without visiting this incredible facility, which leads in marine research and conservation efforts. For history buffs, you will certainly enjoy walking along Cannery Row – made famous in John Steinbeck’s eponymous novel. If you are interested in getting a bit active, then make sure to take a stroll along all or part the 18-mile Monterey Bay Coastal Recreational Trail.

For those who want to enjoy more of the pristine nature that this area of California has to offer, then make sure to do the iconic 17-mile drive in nearby Pacific Grove or even drive a bit south to explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. A city break to Monterey can also be combined with exploring the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea (make sure to check out some wine tasting rooms!) or even take a drive to explore the absolute gorgeous Big Sur.

There is no denying that a visit to Monterey, California is one of the best city breaks you could take in the USA.

If you’re visiting during the whale migration, take a whale watching tour from Monterey!

Savannah

Savannah is one of the few cities in the USA where you can carry out an alcoholic beverage and drink it on the street. I’m not saying that this is the only reason why you should visit, but it does make it fun! The thing that makes Savannah a fantastic city break destination is actually the people – they are some of the most friendly in the world. Read my short stay Savannah guide for all the interesting things you can do on your city break.

Seattle

We only had 1 day in Seattle, but it deserves so much more. The monorail from Lower Queen Anne / Seattle Center to Downtown is a fun way to see the city. It slices through and between buildings, and drops you right in the centre of town. You could spend many days exploring the parks and museums near the Space Needle. And of course, you must go up the Space Needle to see the view of the city. Check out Post Alley, near Pike Place Market, for great boutiques and bars.

Get your Seattle CityPASS to save money on multiple attractions!

St. Pete, Florida

From Pauline at Beeloved City

If you are looking for a lively and sunny place for a city break in Florida, St Petersburg is the perfect choice! Located 30 minutes away from Tampa, St Pete (as the locals call it) is home to many beautiful beaches. Some are even ranked amongst the 10 best beaches in the USA! Make sure to head to St Pete Beach, Treasure Island and Clearwater Beach. If you like to discover secret places and stay away from the crowds, head to Fort De Soto, Honeymoon Island or Caladesi Island. These state parks are home to stunning beaches and they are usually very quiet.

Although going to the beach is fun, don’t skip downtown. St Pete is an artsy and dynamic city, there is a lot to do downtown. If you are into art, visiting the Dali Museum is a must-do. It features the biggest collection of Dali pieces outside of Spain. Strolling along Central Avenue is also a great thing to do. You will discover art galleries, cute cafes, amazing restaurants and some breweries. Make sure to grab a delicious Cuban sandwich at Bodega.

Hotel Recommendations for St Pete

To stay near the Central Avenue arts area, try the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront hotel. If you’d prefer to stay over at St Pete Beach, I recommend Sunset Vistas Beachfront Suites.

City breaks interspersed into road trips is my preferred way to see the USA!
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All photos & content © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with a Canon DSLR T3i Rebel + an iPhoneX.