I love downtown areas of cities. The bigger and the more skyscrapers, the better. Always have. Always will. I’ve visited most US cities over the years and while there’s something great about every city, some I enjoyed more than others. What I appreciate most about a city is the history, skyscrapers, walkability, cultural things to do, restaurants, parks and hotel options (I’m a hotel nut as well). Thanks to my love of cities, I put together this list of what I consider to be the ten best downtowns for enjoying life, whether a resident or tourist, in the US.
10. Denver, Colorado
As a ski aficionado, I love all things Colorado and Denver is no exception. Denver is a city that perfectly blends urban sophistication with access to the great outdoors, making it one of the top cities in the U.S. for lifestyle. Downtown Denver is packed with skyscrapers that offer panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, giving the city a breathtaking backdrop. Retirees and professionals alike are drawn to its highly walkable Lower Downtown (LoDo) area, which features restored 19th-century buildings, trendy rooftop bars, and a thriving arts and culture scene. You’ll find everything from high-end restaurants to local breweries here, making it a hotspot for foodies and craft beer lovers. Denver also boasts multiple cultural venues, including the Denver Art Museum and the Performing Arts Complex. Outdoor enthusiasts benefit from the proximity to parks like City Park and the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, just a short drive away. With a robust public transit system, including Union Station’s transit hub, and a bike-friendly ethos, downtown Denver ensures you can easily explore the city without relying on a car.
9. Austin, Texas
Known for its live music scene and dynamic downtown, Austin has rapidly grown into one of the most desirable cities for those seeking both an active lifestyle and vibrant culture. The city’s skyline is marked by modern skyscrapers, giving it a contemporary feel, but Austin has maintained its eclectic and artsy charm. The walkability of its downtown is a huge draw, with wide streets lined with some of the country’s best restaurants, food trucks, and iconic live music venues. Austin’s legendary 6th Street is known for its buzzing nightlife, where you’ll find an endless array of bars and clubs to explore. The city’s rich culture extends beyond music, with theaters, galleries, and museums that give downtown its creative energy. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lady Bird Lake offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and miles of hiking and biking trails, all within easy reach of the urban core. With a strong sense of community and access to nature, Austin’s downtown is the perfect place for those who want it all.
8. Portland, Oregon
Portland is one of the truly walkable downtowns where you can see much of it in a day. Portland’s downtown is a model of urban planning with sustainability, walkability, and culture at its core. The city’s skyline may not boast the tallest skyscrapers, but its distinctive architectural style and commitment to green spaces make it one of the best downtowns in the U.S. Downtown Portland is compact and highly walkable, with easy access to public transit via the MAX Light Rail system. The Pearl District, a former industrial zone, has been revitalized into a hub of trendy restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and boutiques. It’s a food lover’s paradise, famous for its farm-to-table restaurants, food carts, and microbreweries. Culture thrives here too, with iconic spots like Powell’s City of Books, theaters, and the Portland Art Museum. Nature is always within reach, with the Tom McCall Waterfront Park along the Willamette River and the stunning Washington Park, home to the International Rose Test Garden, just a short streetcar ride away. Portland is a haven for those who value both urban living and a connection to the outdoors.
7. Chicago, Illinois
I used to visit Chicago all the time and cherished every visit. I loved the Gold Coast area above all else. Chicago’s downtown, known as The Loop, is a bustling metropolis with iconic skyscrapers like the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center dominating its skyline. It’s one of the most walkable downtowns in the U.S., with everything from world-class restaurants to renowned cultural institutions just steps away. Millennium Park, with its famous “Bean” sculpture and outdoor concerts, sits at the heart of the city, offering a green escape in the middle of the urban landscape. The city’s vibrant theater district, art galleries, and museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, ensure there’s always something to do. For foodies, downtown Chicago is unbeatable, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to the city’s famous deep-dish pizza joints. The Chicago Riverwalk is a major downtown draw, offering walking paths, dining, and kayaking along the river, all with views of the city’s architecture. With Lake Michigan just a short stroll away, complete with beaches and parks, Chicago is a dream for those who want big-city culture with easy access to nature.
6. Seattle, Washington
I’ve been to Seattle dozens of times and I never tire of the downtown area. I love staying at one of many swanky hotel in Seattle’s downtown is a vibrant urban core surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The skyline is dominated by modern skyscrapers like the Columbia Center and the iconic Space Needle, giving the city a sleek, urban feel. Downtown Seattle is extremely walkable, with bustling Pike Place Market at its heart—a foodie paradise known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and famous flying fish vendors. The nearby waterfront provides spectacular views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, perfect for retirees and professionals who crave the outdoors. Seattle’s cultural scene thrives downtown, with institutions like the Seattle Art Museum and numerous theaters offering everything from symphonies to avant-garde performances. The city’s craft coffee culture is legendary, and its restaurant scene is booming, offering a range of culinary delights from seafood to international fare. Outdoor access is a huge part of Seattle’s appeal, with Discovery Park and the waterfront providing excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking, all within minutes of the downtown core.
5. San Diego, California
San Diego has it all – climate, sports, beaches, culture. I go to San Diego every chance I get. Its downtown offers the perfect mix of laid-back California living with the excitement of a big city. Its skyline is dotted with sleek skyscrapers, and the walkable Gaslamp Quarter is packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. San Diego is known for its exceptional year-round weather, making it easy to enjoy its many outdoor attractions. The downtown area features plenty of parks and green spaces, including the stunning Waterfront Park and Balboa Park, home to several museums and the San Diego Zoo. The Embarcadero along the harbor is a popular spot for retirees and young professionals alike, offering waterfront dining, cruises, and scenic walking paths. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean also makes this city ideal for water lovers, with access to beaches and water sports just minutes away. With a thriving craft beer scene, fantastic dining, and a welcoming community vibe, downtown San Diego is a top destination for those seeking a vibrant lifestyle with easy outdoor access.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia’s downtown, known as Center City, is a blend of historic charm and modern urban living. Skyscrapers like the Comcast Center tower over historic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, giving the city a unique juxtaposition of old and new. Downtown Philly is incredibly walkable, with tree-lined streets, parks, and an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. The city’s famous Reading Terminal Market is a must-visit for food lovers, offering a wide array of fresh, local foods. Philadelphia is also home to world-class museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Foundation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy walking or biking along the Schuylkill River Trail, which winds through the city and connects to various green spaces. With a strong sense of community and a vibrant arts scene, Center City Philadelphia is ideal for those who want big-city amenities with a neighborhood feel.
3. Miami, Florida
Miami is a super exciting city which is why I’m so excited to be visiting again in three weeks. Downtown Miami offers a vibrant, tropical city experience with a skyline that reflects its status as an international hub. The city’s skyscrapers overlook Biscayne Bay, giving residents stunning water views right from the heart of the urban core. Downtown Miami is highly walkable, with numerous restaurants, bars, and cultural venues just steps from one another. The city’s Latin-influenced food and nightlife scene is one of the best in the country, with the bustling Brickell area offering high-end dining and entertainment. Miami’s cultural offerings are impressive, with institutions like Pérez Art Museum and the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts anchoring its arts scene. Just a short drive from downtown, residents can enjoy outdoor activities at Miami Beach, or explore the nearby Everglades. With its dynamic, multicultural vibe and easy access to outdoor recreation, Miami’s downtown is perfect for those who crave energy and excitement.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
As a history nut, I love love love visiting Boston. Boston’s downtown is steeped in history while offering a modern, vibrant lifestyle. The city’s skyline is defined by iconic buildings like the John Hancock Tower, while its walkable streets are full of historic landmarks, from the Freedom Trail to Faneuil Hall. Boston’s cultural scene is top-notch, with world-renowned institutions like the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Museum of Fine Arts, and the Boston Opera House all located downtown. The restaurant scene here is booming, offering everything from classic New England seafood to innovative international cuisine. Boston’s proximity to the Charles River and Boston Harbor provides plenty of outdoor activities, from sailing to cycling along the Esplanade. The city’s community vibe, strong healthcare system, and easy public transit make downtown Boston a great place to live for those who want both culture and convenience.
1. New York City, New York
I was just in NYC and it was the best. There’s no question that New York City tops the list for the best downtowns in the U.S. The towering skyscrapers of Manhattan’s iconic skyline, from One World Trade Center to the Empire State Building, create an unmatched urban atmosphere. Downtown Manhattan is a cultural mecca, home to Broadway theaters, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and endless music venues. The food scene is unparalleled, with Michelin-starred restaurants alongside world-famous street food vendors. The city’s walkability is legendary—whether you’re strolling through Central Park, walking along the High Line, or exploring the trendy neighborhoods of SoHo and Tribeca, everything is at your fingertips. Access to the outdoors is surprisingly abundant, with the Hudson River Greenway offering biking and walking paths right in the city, and quick getaways to the beaches of Long Island or the mountains of the Catskills. For those who crave energy, diversity, and endless possibilities, New York City’s downtown is unmatched.
