16 Favorite American Cities To Travel According To Millennials
Chantelle KincyThe US is a huge country with various bustling cities to travel to, each with its unique style. Whether you’re into the buzz of NYC, the hipster vibes of Portland, or the quirky charm of Austin, there’s a city for everyone. Are you curious which American cities speak to millennials (people born between 1981 and 1996)?
As a millennial myself, I can tell you several of these cities are at the top of my favorites list as well…but some of them were a head-scratcher for me. You might be surprised by the selections, but according to a YouGov survey, these places are the top US destination spots for millennials.
Colorado Springs, CO
You might have thought a different, more famous city would be at the top of the list, but millennials are always full of surprises. The top pick for millennials in the US is Colorado Springs—a paradise for adventurous souls who love majestic views and active fun.
You can explore the red rock canyons of Garden of the Gods or conquer the 14,000-foot titan Pikes Peak. Beyond the adrenaline rush, you can immerse yourself in art at the Fine Arts Center, catch a show at the Pikes Peak Center, or sip local brews at one of the many breweries.
It’s affordable, too! Hotels are around $100, and tasty meals range from $15-20.
Denver, CO
Millennials clearly love Colorado! Denver’s got it all: cool nightlife, a diverse food scene, and a chill, friendly vibe. You can immerse yourself in art with a mind-bending interactive experience at Meow Wolf Denver or be blown away by a legendary microbrewery scene from Tour Great Divide Brewing Co.
You can snag a Denver CityPASS for discounts on top attractions and even explore the city on two wheels with the Denver B-Cycle app for cheap bike rentals.
New York City, NY
New York City, aka “The Big Apple,” has a bustling vibe that millennials can’t resist. I visited a few years ago; it was undoubtedly one of my favorite spots. The amazing food, eclectic culture, and infectious energy won me over.
Whether fancy Michelin-starred meals or hidden hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving global flavors, NYC is a foodie paradise. Ride on the Staten Island ferry for a free epic view of the bay and the Statue of Liberty. Check out the sprawling and beautiful Central Park for a natural respite.
Hop on the subway for efficient, affordable transportation and explore diverse neighborhoods on foot. Keep up with the fast pace, respect personal space, and don’t hesitate to ask for directions (Although they’re known for being blunt, New Yorkers are actually pretty helpful!).
Las Vegas, NV
Las Vegas is more than just casinos— there are many great ways to spend time in this exciting city with art installations, top-tier entertainment, off-the-wall dining experiences, and even kid-friendly activities.
One of my favorite spots in Vegas is the hidden speakeasy in the Cosmopolitan Hotel called The Ghost Donkey– try their amazing margaritas!
For millennials, riding the 550-foot-tall observation wheel Ride the High Roller doesn’t seem so bad for epic views of the Strip and the surrounding area.
Driving on the Exotics Racing track, you can also get behind a Ferrari or Lamborghini wheel.
Love shopping? Fremont Street is covered with shops, restaurants, and the world’s largest video screen.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco might be a compact city, but it packs a punch for cool stuff to do! As a former SF resident for over 10 years, I know this city has everything for millennials–amazing food, cool bars, great concerts, epic art, nature, and more!
If you like the hipster vibe, try Valencia Street in the Mission district for unique restaurants and bars. For those looking for peace and quiet (some tea and bonsai trees!) Golden Gate Park’s Japanese Tea Garden is your zen spot.
You can easily move around with Muni buses, light rail, and cable cars.
And don’t forget your layers! San Francisco can be foggy and chilly, even in summer.
San Diego, CA
It’s called “America’s Finest City” for a reason. I was born and raised in this So-Cal city and decided to move back a few years ago because of the amazing weather, laid-back vibe, and the great food and entertainment scene.
San Diego has some of the best beaches in California, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding. For cultural experiences, immerse yourself in the city’s historic Gaslamp district, with its lively bars and diverse restaurants.
If you want a beachy, frat party vibe, bar-hop in Pacific Beach on the weekend. North Park’s breweries will be right up your alley for a more millennial, bohemian vibe.
Nashville, TN
Nashville is a young and vibrant city with a lot to offer millennials. From honky-tonk bars on Lower Broadway to swanky rooftop lounges and intimate listening rooms, Nashville pulsates with music around the clock.
The Grand Ole Opry, country music’s hallowed stage, and the Ryman Auditorium, nicknamed “The Mother Church,” beckon with legendary acoustics and electrifying performances.
Nashville is a friendly city with a laid-back Southern charm. Be polite, and don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals.
Boston, MA
Boston is a hit for millennials! It’s young, lively, and bursting with startup vibes. It is steeped in American history, from the Freedom Trail to the Bunker Hill Monument. The food scene offers New England’s best, from fresh seafood to classic dishes like clam chowder and Boston cream pie.
For nightlife, you can check out live bands in Fenway, dance downtown, or have rooftop cocktails with killer views. Boston can be expensive, but there are plenty of free and cheap things to do in the city, so having a great trip on a budget is possible.
Houston, TX
Whether you’re interested in space exploration, history, family fun, or a night out on the town, Houston has something for everyone. The city’s vibe is a cool mix of Mexican, Vietnamese, African, and Southern influences.
The Space Center Houston is a must-visit for interactive exhibits and astronaut training simulations. Houston is taco heaven, dishing out authentic Mexican street food from barbacoa to al pastor.
Accommodation, food, and transportation are relatively inexpensive, leaving you more to spend on awesome experiences.
Chicago, IL
Chicago is nicknamed the “Windy City,” but it’s also the “City of Big Shoulders” thanks to its impressive skyline and rich architectural history. The Art Institute of Chicago, the world’s largest art museum, is a must-see, with a collection spanning centuries and cultures.
The city is a festival hotspot year-round, celebrating everything from food and music to art and culture (have you ever heard of The Chicago Hot Dog Fest?). And for foodies, it’s a paradise—from deep-dish pizza to Michelin-starred restaurants, so eat your way through the city.
Austin, TX
Austin proudly holds the title of the Live Music Capital of the World. Thanks to its affordability, booming tech industry, and a vibrant community passionate about music, food, and culture, it’s a go-to destination for millennials.
Consider a boat tour on Lady Bird Lake for a unique perspective and a dive into the lake’s history. Remember that Austin is laid-back, so even fancy places are cool with flip-flops and shorts.
Charlotte, NC
In Charlotte, North Carolina (aka “Queen City”), you can explore trendy shops at Camp North End, groove at the Fillmore, or enjoy craft brews at NoDa Brewing Company.
Dive into history at the Levine Museum or the Mint Museum, and catch a show at the Gantt Center. Charlotte’s affordable, with a walkable city center. Check out festivals like Charlotte Pride and Food Truck Fridays or cheer at a Panthers game for extra fun.
Dallas, TX
Dallas, Texas, might not be the first city that pops into your head for a millennial vacation, but trust me, it’s got a lot to offer! You can either learn about the JFK assassination at the Sixth Floor Museum, relax and stroll through the stunning Dallas Arboretum, or visit Southfork Ranch, the home of the Ewing family from the iconic TV show “Dallas.”
Prepare for friendly Texans with Southern hospitality and expect drawls and polite chats. Don’t skip the State Fair of Texas in September/October for a true Texan adventure!
Portland, OR
There’s plenty to see and do in Portland, millennial or not. It’s a lively city with a quirky vibe, indie spirit, and a chill atmosphere. Foodie, nature lover, or culture buff – Portland’s got you covered. Legendary food trucks, cozy coffee shops, and cool breweries await.
Take a day trip to the Columbia River Gorge for stunning views, and don’t miss Powell’s City of Books, the world’s biggest indie bookstore! Portland loves sustainability, so bring a reusable bottle and recycle. Check out the city’s street fairs and festivals year-round – each is a unique experience!
Seattle, WA
Seattle’s more than just coffee – it’s a tech hub (home of Amazon) with a chill vibe for young pros! Sustainability, local love, and unique fun are big with millennials. Hike Discovery Park for epic views, kayak on Lake Union, or get artsy at the Olympic Sculpture Park.
Visit the iconic Space Needle or dive into museums like the Seattle Art Museum and the National Nordic Museum. Public transportation is good, but renting a bike can be a fun and efficient way to explore.
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and vibrant outdoor activities, but fall and winter can be magical, with fewer crowds and festive cheer.
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is not just the capital of Georgia or the home of Coca-Cola. This southern city is a destination for millennials who love edgy restaurants, epic nightlife, world-class music, American history, and urban nature.
Although Atlanta is known for southern comfort food like ribs, fried chicken, and BBQ, the city is home to Michelin-star restaurants that offer everything from Italian to Filipino to Thai cuisine and everything in between. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Atlanta History Center or the Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Site.
Most Dangerous Hiking Trails
Looking for a challenge? Try one of these hikes, rated the most thrilling in the world.
Adrenaline Junkies Flock To These Destinations
If you need a little element of fear injected into your travels, these adventurous locations are for you!
See the locations best for adrenaline junkies.
Dark Tourism
Dark tourism refers to vacations to unconventional places, visiting a location often associated with something sad, dark, or historical (not in a good way.)
Most Challenging Ultramarathons
Do you have what it takes to compete with the best of the best in these crazy, hard competitions?
