Top 10 US cities to go for vacation

October 21, 9:32 PMTucson World Travel ExaminerJoe D'Aquisto

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San Francisco, CA (Photo by: Paiaa.org)

This month Conde Nast Traveler magazine took a poll of its reader’s opinions and named the best 10 US cities to visit. The cities named on the list are what they deemed most worth and likely to be enjoyed by travelers.

1) San Francisco, California

Of course the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most popular attractions, but the city has many other things to offer. Residents and tourists claim the city is never too hot or cold, the city is very environmentally friendly as well as diverse in culture. Perhaps the biggest drawback especially if you live in the area is cost of living.

2) Charleston, South Carolina

I have no arguments with this one. I lived in the city of Charleston, pronounce it like (Chaahl-ston) if you want to come off as a local. The city has great beaches, plantations and many historic buildings. The Battery is a great place to take a walk right next to the ocean and Charleston has a strong history related to the Civil War which is where it all started. The Market is an old selling place for slaves that has been converted into a flea market where many local and regional artists and craftsmen sell their works. Although if you do decide to visit, I recommend waiting until at least October to do so because summers are very very humid and you will be drenched in sweat within minutes just by standing outside if you go then.

3) New York, New York

Good ‘ol New York. I have a special place in my heart for this city as it was my place of birth. Everyone knows it never sleeps and has events and attractions for everyone. Shopping, restaurants, clubs, sports, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, need I say more?

4) Santa Fe, New Mexico

This place is said to be great when it comes to quality restaurants and sights for photographers that can’t be seen elsewhere. I myself have never been to this place, but I’ve heard some good things about it from other travelers.

5) Chicago, Illinois

Entertainment that will rival New York, Chicago offers a wide range of things to do. They have great pizza and if you ever came here during the 1990’s you may have been lucky to see one of the greatest athletes of all time play ball….Michael Jordan.

6) Carmel, California

Known for its popularity among pet lovers, there are many pet-friendly beaches and many of its visitors have stated the town offers a nice relaxing atmosphere if you’d like to get a good look at the Pacific Ocean.

7) Honolulu, Hawaii

The most populous city in the state, travelers generally have good things to say about the city although it is rather expensive. A cosmopolitan city in a tropical environment is always popular.

8) Savannah, Georgia

Another city with southern charm similar to Charleston.  Savannah is very eclectic and offers many music and arts festivals throughout the year with many of its contributions by Savannah College of Art & Design students.  If you’re driving in from South Carolina you’ll cross over the Savannah River via the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, which separates downtown from its neighboring state.  The bridge provides 185 feet of vertical clearance for ships while Charleston’s new Arthur Ravenel Bridge is one foot taller. There’s no secret that there is a rivalry between the two cities. They are similar in ways, but definitely have their own unique attributes and personality.

9) San Diego, California

Another place that many will say offers a great climate. A good escape if you’re living in Los Angeles and need to get away from all the hectic stress as it is only about a 2-2½ hour drive.

10) Sedona, Arizona

This is a beautiful place with great hiking and outdoor activities. Yes, some things are rather touristy, but no less fun. The weather is also much cooler than many other parts of the state so if you happen to be living in the desert take a drive up to escape the heat. One of the biggest attractions are the Red Rock formations which are pretty much everywhere and when the sun’s rays hit them it is obvious where they get their title. The Grand Canyon is also not too far away, about 2-2½ hour drive, a great combo trip.

*New Orleans, Louisiana

I truly believe that New Orleans should have been on this list, despite the devastation of Katrina, the city has done much rebuilding and the downtown remained pretty much unscathed and is still as vibrant as ever.

Do you see a city that they missed that you feel deemed worthy? Leave your comments.