Best U.S. Cities for Culture

Whenever we travel—even within our own country—we uncover cultures that are entirely unique and, in their specialness, quite remarkable. Take Taos, for instance—this New Mexican city ranks No. 10 in the United States for culture. A blend of ski town and magical artists’ colony, it is known for its $25 pass allowing access to five museums and walkable streets adorned with galleries. In the summer, travelers can partake in various art festivals or the Solar Music Festival. The city’s cultural fabric is deeply rooted in the surrounding desert and the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains, highlighted by the Native American Pueblo.

Moreover, San Francisco’s cultural diversity, featuring a vibrant Chinatown and Japantown, along with its underrated attractions such as the nature installations at The Presidio—San Francisco’s very own national park—helps it ascend to the No. 4 spot in cultural significance.

World’s Best Awards

Every year, for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel gathers insights from readers about their travel experiences across the globe, inviting opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise lines, spas, airlines, and more. Readers evaluate cities on various qualities including shopping, food, nightlife, and overall friendliness, leading to the identification of the most cultured cities in the country.

Distinct Sense of Place

If we had to define a common thread shared by all the cities on the list—from charming mountain towns to bustling East Coast cities—it would be their distinct sense of place. Each city boasts a plethora of museums and historical sites that further accentuate their cultural uniqueness. For example, it’s nearly impossible to confuse New Orleans or Washington, D.C. with any other location on the planet.