New York doesn't make the top 5 list of greatest U.S cities again, but the winner will surprise you
When you think of the best cities in America, New York City likely comes to mind first. It's iconic, bustling, and filled with some of the world's most famous landmarks. It even topped lists of the most-visited cities in the world, but that doesn't mean it ranks highest in traveler satisfaction. According to a new 2025 ranking, even the Big Apple couldn't break into the top five this year. If you're planning your next trip, you might want to consider some surprising destinations that travelers say outshine NYC.
How the ranking works
Each year, Travel + Leisure conducts its World's Best Awards survey, where over 180,000 readers rate their favorite U.S. cities. They're asked to consider factors like sights and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. Scores are averaged out of 100, and the results often reflect what travelers truly appreciate, sometimes favoring charm over size.
In 2025, readers showed a clear preference for smaller, more intimate cities, leaving New York in eighth place with a score of 83.84. While NYC still draws millions of visitors each year and remains TripAdvisor's number one destination in 2025, it couldn't compete with the smaller, more charming destinations that travelers are increasingly drawn to.
Meet the winner: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Topping the list this year is Santa Fe, New Mexico, with an impressive score of 88.8. If you haven't visited yet, it may not be what you expect. Readers praised the city for its inventive cuisine, thriving art galleries, and unique markets. Sitting at 7,000 feet above sea level in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe offers stunning views and a vibrant mix of cultural influences that make it stand out.
If food is what excites you most when traveling, you might also love exploring other destinations known for their inventive cuisine and food scene. Santa Fe's galleries, local crafts, and creative dishes are worth a trip in themselves. Many travelers called it a 'true gem' — proof that great things come in smaller packages.
If you're heading to higher-altitude destinations like Santa Fe or Asheville, it's smart to bring a light, waterproof layer. The Columbia Switchback III Jacket packs down small but keeps you dry when the weather turns.
The runners-up: Food, history, and southern hospitality
Coming in second is New Orleans, Louisiana, scoring 87.06. The Big Easy has long been a favorite for its lively music, rich history, and colorful food scene. According to voters, its diverse cuisine and one-of-a-kind atmosphere make it irresistible.
Third place went to Charleston, South Carolina, which scored 87.01 after holding the top spot for 12 straight years. Charleston's well-preserved downtown, historic architecture, and laws keeping buildings lower than the city's tallest church all help preserve its quaint charm.
Rounding out the top five are Savannah, Georgia (86.64) and Alexandria, Virginia (85.26). Savannah is beloved for its romantic squares and oak-lined streets, while Alexandria — just outside Washington, D.C. — impressed travelers with its waterfront vibe and walkable Old Town.
Where does New York fall?
So, where did New York land? With a respectable eighth place, it still ranked among the country's best cities. Travelers continued to rave about its theater scene, calling it unbeatable in both quality and variety. And even though it fell behind cities like Greenville, South Carolina, New York remains unmatched when it comes to sheer variety of things to do and see.
The ranking suggests that while NYC has plenty to offer, travelers may be more drawn these days to places that feel more personal and approachable.
The full top 10 list
Here's the full ranking of the best U.S. cities for 2025:
Santa Fe, New Mexico
New Orleans, Louisiana
Charleston, South Carolina
Savannah, Georgia
Alexandria, Virginia
Honolulu, Hawaii
Greenville, South Carolina
New York, New York
Asheville, North Carolina
Chicago, Illinois
If you've already explored the big names, the cities in the top five — or even the top ten — can give you a different kind of travel experience. They offer history, charm, and often a slower pace that many travelers now seem to prefer.
Why smaller cities are winning hearts
This trend highlights a shift in what people value when traveling, with more travelers choosing smaller, more charming destinations over the usual big-city stops. They're often easier to navigate, more affordable, and offer a stronger sense of place.
Smaller cities are also best explored by walking, so you'll want a comfortable and secure bag. The Pacsafe Venturesafe Anti-Theft Travel Backpack is a great choice, with lockable zippers and cut-resistant straps for peace of mind.
Final thoughts
New York City may still be the city that never sleeps, but for now, it's the smaller, more charming destinations that are capturing travelers' hearts. Whether you choose to see Santa Fe's mountain views or stroll through the cobblestone streets of Savannah, there are plenty of options to inspire your next getaway.
So the next time you think about visiting 'the best,' remember that it might not always mean the biggest. And who knows — you might just fall in love with a new favorite city.
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