Top 25 destinations in the U.S.

Are you looking to book a trip within the U.S. and need inspiration? TripAdvisor has revealed its Top 25 Travelers’ Choice U.S. Destinations. The winners were based on travelers’ reviews and ratings for hotels, atractions, and restaurants.

Boston is ranked No. 14. Find out why.

1. New York City, New York

Conquering New York in one visit is impossible. Instead, hit the must-sees – the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art – and then explore off the beaten path with visits to The Cloisters or one of the city’s libraries. Indulge in the bohemian shops of the West Village or the fine dining of the Upper West Side. The bustling marketplace inside of Grand Central Station gives you a literal taste of the best the city has to offer.

2. Chicago, Illinois

The windy city is a cornucopia of modern art, fine dining, cutting edge comedy, and die-hard sports fans. Snap a photo of your reflection in the silver Cloud Gate sculpture at Millennium Park before heading to Grant Park to get hit with the refreshing spray of Buckingham Fountain. There are dozens of museums and theater companies in Chicago, so a cultural experience is never hard to find. You’re sure to laugh your head off at the Second City Theater, the professional launch pad of many famous comedians.

3. San Francisco, California

Every neighborhood in San Francisco has its own personality, from the hippie chic of the Upper Haight to the hipster grit of the Mission. The Marina district boasts trendy bistros and postcard-perfect views of the Golden Gate Bridge, while Noe Valley offers quaint and quiet boutiques. Wave hello to the sea lions at Pier 39, and sample local cheese and charcuterie at the Ferry Building. Sit in on a yoga session in Dolores Park or marvel at the Dutch Windmill across from Ocean Beach.

4. Las Vegas, Nevada

Whether you’re a high roller or a low-key lounger, Las Vegas has something to suit your vacation taste. Sample fare from top chefs and cornucopian buffets, try your luck at one of the world’s premier casinos, or take in a spectacular show. Just wandering the Strip is enough to to get your heart pumping. Once you’ve had enough of the razzle-dazzle, wave hello to the toothy sea life at the Mandalay Bay Shark Reef, hike Red Rock Canyon, or visit the Neon Museum, where old signs take on new life.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

Laissez les bons temps rouler! In New Orleans the good times are perpetually rolling down Bourbon Street, which, thanks to the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebration, has quite a party animal reputation. Once you’ve soaked up the scenery of the historic French Quarter, tour the elegant Garden District and meet the colorful characters of Frenchmen Street. Experience the city’s supernatural vibe at the Voodoo Museum or by taking a guided ghost or vampire tour through taverns, alleyways, and cemeteries.

6. Los Angeles, California

Known as the city of stories, Los Angeles is an epicenter for the arts, especially film and music. Pay a visit to Hollywood, stroll through downtown, and, of course, check out Beverly Hills and Venice Beach. Who knows? You may run in to a celebrity. Start your day with a free stroll down Olvera Street, the oldest street in Los Angeles. Stop in to Genwa for Korean-style barbeque or hit up Langer’s for more low-key, American diner fare. Wrap up your day at the Getty Center, Nethercutt Museum, or track down your favorite star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

7. San Diego, California

San Diego embodies laid-back California culture, complete with a Boardwalk, surfing communities, and outstanding Mexican food. Breathe in the fresh ocean air at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, then gobble down a fresh fish taco at a La Jolla seafood joint. The naval aircrafts at the USS Midway Museum will have you standing at attention. A free Sunday concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion is the perfect way to unwind after a Saturday night bar-hop in the thumping Gaslamp Quarter.

8. Seattle, Washington

In Seattle you simply can’t skip the Central Public Library – a modern architectural marvel of glass grids, unusual shapes, and a “book spiral’’ that climbs four stories. Stroll over to Pike’s Place Market to visit the original Starbucks and play catch with a fishmonger. In the heart of the city lies Chihuly Garden and Glass, which will dazzle you with its colorful and delicate works. Glide to the top of the Space Needle for panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and Puget Sound.

9. Washington DC, District of Columbia

Washington DC is a hub for American politics and history. Attracting as many school field trips as it does travelers the district offers a peek into the country’s democratic origin. There are plenty of free museums to take advantage of but the real draw here is the memorials and monuments dedicated to great American leaders. Spend some contemplative time at the Reflecting Pool within the National Mall, among the most patriotic places in the country.

10. Orlando, Florida

From the Magic Kingdom to magical spa treatments, Orlando sparkles with the promise of adventure. Spend a day exploring the world-famous Disney theme parks, giggling with the dolphins at SeaWorld, or screaming your head off on a Universal Studios roller coaster. For a less adrenaline-pumping afternoon, enjoy the quiet natural beauty of the Harry P. Leu Gardens, or enjoy a seaweed scrub at a luxury day spa. Savor fresh and local ingredients at one of Orlando’s James Beard-nominated restaurants.

11. Honolulu, Hawaii

This tropical paradise is the perfect place to play. Learn to ride the waves where surfing was born in Waikiki or pay a visit to the famous North Shore. By day, sample some of the best farm to table restaurants, shop for the latest local fashions, check out the local art scene, and stop by Iolani Palace for a taste of Hawaiian history. After the sun sets, experience Honolulu nightlight downtown and in Chinatown, from clubs and beach venues to live music and theater.

12. Houston, Texas

This sprawling city hums with the energy and independent spirit that turned it from swampland into the fourth-largest city in the U.S. Everything is big, from the towering skyscrapers to the city’s prominence in aerospace, oil, shipping and finance. Even the architecture makes big, bold statements, like the medical center towers that resemble two giant syringes. A thriving business center, the city has become increasingly cosmopolitan, with an influx of diverse ethnic groups and a strong emphasis on the arts. Opera, ballet, symphony and theater are all top-notch, and museums abound. The midday heat is easily escaped inside the numerous attractions and shopping areas, particularly in the pedestrian-friendly 6.5-mile underground city. Since you’re in the place that broadcast man’s first step on the moon, you may want to pay a visit to Space Center Houston, where you’ll be whisked into outer space through simulations and films. Once back on earth, you can hop on the tram to the complex’s NASA/Johnson Space Center to watch astronauts and engineers at work and in training.

13. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a renowned restaurant scene. Check out the sites, like the must-see Boone Hall Plantation and the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. The outdoorsy type can experience the water and local wildlife with a guided kayak tour, paddleboard rental, or private boat charter. Dine with the locals and sample the best grits in the country, dockside oyster roasts, and freshly caught seafood The Charleston Crab House offers gorgeous waterfront dining and Halls Chophouse features a more festive, family-friendly vibe. At night, visit one of the many local pubs and breweries downtown or take a guided ghost tour.

14. Boston, Massachusetts

No, you can’t actually park your car in Harvard Yard. What you can do in Boston is enjoy some of the country’s most important historical sites and impassioned sports fans. Catch a game at Fenway Park before heading to the North End for some of the Italian neighborhood’s legendary cannoli. Take in the gilded glory of the State House from the edge of the Boston Common, also the starting point for the Freedom Trail, a walking route between 16 sites that were integral to the American Revolution.

15. Portland, Oregon

Experience real-life Portlandia where the shopping is tax-free, the great outdoors is a step away, and the nightlife offers everything from sports to swanky nightclubs. Local guides give visitors a taste of the city with walking tours, food cart visits, and expeditions to Columbia River Gorge. Take a hike and observe the native wildlife or hop on kayak and see the sights from the water on one of the many rivers. Wine and dine with local cuisine: think farm favorites with fresh produce, barbecued chicken, juicy sliders, and even homemade donuts. Portland is known as the beer capital (home to 53 breweries, than any other city in the world) so be sure to stop by and sample one of the many local brews or swing by one of the annual beer fests hosted throughout the year.

16. San Antonio, Texas

Step to the beat of wafting flamenco music as you wander the downtown River Walk before sampling as much chili (San Antonio’s signature dish) as your taste buds will allow. A visit to the Alamo is an absolute must, as is taking in a show at the ornate Majestic Theatre. Missions Historical Park is dotted with 18th-century buildings and features, making for an enriching excursion.

17. Palm Springs, California

Looking to relax in the sun? Palm Springs, with 354 days of sunshine per year, might be the place for you. Relax poolside or visit one of the many area spas… or tour some fantastic examples of mid-century modern architecture.

18. Austin, Texas

Every year thousands of hipsters, groupies, and die-hard fans flock to Austin for the annual South by Southwest festival, which has catapulted the Texas city up the must-visit charts for many travelers. The sandstone Capitol building is symbolic of the Lone Star State’s “bigger is better’’ mentality, featuring a gorgeous whispering gallery rotunda and 22 acres of grounds. Cool off with a dip in Barton Springs, a huge natural limestone pool that’s fed by underground sources.

19. Branson, Missouri

It’s called the Live Music Show Capital of the World– on any given day, almost 90 music, magic and comedy shows run at 50+ theaters. You might catch into Tony Orlando, the Osmonds or Marty Stuart, all regulars. (Think Las Vegas without the casinos and people drinking margaritas-by-the-yard at 10 am.) Between shows, enjoy nature in the Ozarks– you’ll find great fishing, hiking, biking and water sports in the area.

20. Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta has been dubbed everything from the “capital of the new South’’ and “the next international city’’ to “the best place to do business.’’ It’s also a great place to visit. Fueled by the prosperity of local mega companies like Coca Cola and Holiday Inn, the prestige of hosting the 1996 Summer Olympic Games and the energy of young upwardly mobile types who have migrated to the city in droves – Atlanta is on fire. And this time it’s a good thing. From world-class restaurants and a myriad of cultural attractions to a hip nightlife and sporting events galore, the city is cosmopolitan in every sense of the word. But Atlanta has also managed to maintain its historic character. Stop by the Atlanta History Center or visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Site, a moving tribute to an American icon. Browse through the former home of famous author Margaret Mitchell or pop into the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum for details on the life and times of the former president and his family. Whether you choose modern urban endeavors or old southern pleasures, Atlanta will not disappoint.

21. Phoenix, Arizona

Nearly perfect year-round weather and several impeccably designed championship courses have made Phoenix one of the top golf destinations in the world. But there’s more to this mild-mannered metropolis than pristine greens and tee times. The greater Phoenix area also offers visitors an array of impressive cultural attractions. Visit the internationally renowned Heard Museum for an in-depth look at Native American history or peruse the fine collection at the Phoenix Museum of Art. Enjoy a ballet performance at the ornate Orpheum Theater or or catch a concert at the state-of-the-art Comerica Theatre. In addition to golf, the city offers access to numerous outdoor endeavors including rock climbing, hot-air ballooning, desert jeep tours and more. Family-friendly attractions, first-rate shopping, dining and entertainment, and spectacular recreational activities make Phoenix a must-visit destination.

22. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach is all at once a spring break destination, golfing destination, retirement community, and family vacation spot. Take in a foot-stomping show at the Carolina Opry, or cheer on your favorite knight at Medieval Times. Mingle with the fishermen of Springmaid Pier, then stop for ice cream along the boardwalk. Shop and dine at one of the area’s many outdoor entertainment complexes, or simply explore the many beaches of the Grand Strand – all with a personality of their own.

23. Saint Louis, Missouri

The history of St. Louis has been heavily influenced by Westward expansion and blues music. The big “must-see’’ in this region is the Gateway Arch, while other important sites include the Museum of Westward Expansion, the St. Louis Cathedral and the Anheuser-Busch factory tour. The city offers plenty for the whole family. Children will enjoy the local zoo and the Magic House, while family members will also want to unwind at Forest Park, home to the World’s Fair almost a century ago.

24. Nashville, Tennessee

Put on your boots! Nashville is the heart and soul of the country music industry, and people here are proud of it. Get in the downhome spirit by visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame and stomping your feet at the Grand Ole Opry. Tennessee gets some ancient influence in Centennial Park, where inside of the full-scale model of the Parthenon you’ll be awestruck by the gigantic statue of Athena.

25. Miami, Florida

Miami is hot hot hot! And it’s not just the sultry weather. Here, the nightlife is scorching, thanks to a strong Latin influence and spicy salsa culture. Dance the noche away in a nightclub, or indulge in a fancy meal at one of the city’s celebrity-owned restaurants. By day, hit the beach of course, or have yourself a walkabout, taking in Miami’s colorful art deco architecture. Grab a Cuban sandwich in Little Havana, then ride the vintage carousel at Virginia Key Beach Park.