The United States of America is filled with a rich history, and the best way to experience it is by visiting one of its many historic cities. Below are top 10 historical cities in the USA and they are our favorites that should be on anyone’s travel destinations bucket list.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is the capital and most populous city of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in the United States. The city proper covers 48 square miles (124 km2) with an estimated population of 685,094 in 2018, making it also one of the most densely populated cities in the country.
Boston is considered a global city and financial center for its significant role in American history, culture, commerce, education, government, and industry. It was founded on September 17, 1630, by Puritan colonists from England who wanted to be part of a New England settlement away from religious persecution back home.
After being established as a town, they were able to develop their own government, which became more democratic than others at that time because all male citizens could vote regardless if they owned property or not, which made them almost like a democracy but not quite yet since women didn’t get this right until 1920 when they got their right to vote officially recognized under federal law by way of ratification by 26 states out 35 required during these times (which means there were still 11 holdouts).
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a city in the U.S. state of South Carolina. It is the county seat of Charleston County and the second-largest city in the state.
Charleston was established as a town by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1670, making it one of America’s oldest cities. The city’s original name was Charles Towne, which is often spelled Charlestowne today or sometimes Charles Towne Square to distinguish it from other places named for King Charles II of England, who had died only three years earlier (1685).
3. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a beautiful city with a lot of history. This city is home to three major sports teams: the Chicago Cubs, White Sox, and Bears.
The city has many famous skyscrapers, two of which are the Willis Tower (the second tallest building in America) and the Sears Tower (the tallest building in America).
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans, Louisiana is one of the historical cities in the USA and is the most visited city in the United States and boasts a rich history that dates back to 1718 when it was founded. It’s located on a natural harbor between Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi River, making it an ideal place for trade.
The city became famous for its jazz clubs, but it’s also known for its French Quarter, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark since 1970. The French Quarter has many different sites, including Jackson Square, where you can find St. Louis Cathedral and Café du Monde (a must-visit). Other landmarks include Place d’Armes; Cabildo; Presbytère; Custom House – U.S. Customs House & Slave Market; St. Ann Street Façade of Ulysses S Grant Home & Museum; Old U.S. Mint; Antebellum Houses (Birdsall House); American Legion Building (U.S. Post Office)
5. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia is the birthplace of the United States. It was here that the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were written, as well as most of America’s early political documents. Today, you can visit Independence Hall and other historical sites to learn about it.
- In addition to these historical facts, Philadelphia has plenty to offer in terms of entertainment and culture throughout the year: there are festivals like Philly Free Streets, where you can walk down streets closed off from vehicle traffic; concerts at venues like The Mann Center for Performing Arts or World Cafe Live; sporting events like Phillies baseball games or 76ers basketball games; art museums such as The Barnes Foundation or Philadelphia Museum of Art (which also happens to be one of my favorite places on earth).
6. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a one of the historical cities in the USA, a city on the west coast of the United States, known as the “City by the Bay.” The city is known for its hilly terrain and views of San Francisco Bay. It has diverse neighborhoods, some areas with Victorian architecture, built during its last major economic boom in the late 1800s worldwide.
It is also known for its cuisine and nightlife. Many popular restaurants, such as Fisherman’s Wharf, are located here and attract tourists yearly to enjoy their food!
7. Savannah, Georgia
As the oldest city in Georgia, Savannah has many historic sites and attractions to explore. Founded in 1733, it is the largest city in Georgia and the third oldest city in the United States. Many of its most famous landmarks were built during its Colonial-era heyday; these include Fort Jackson, which was constructed during the War of 1812; Drayton Hall Plantation House, which dates back to 1738 but was rebuilt after suffering damage during Hurricane Hugo; and Green-Meldrim House Museum—a Federal-style mansion built circa 1821 by Scottish architect William Jay.
With a population of over 142 thousand residents (as of 2017), Savannah continues to be one of America’s most visited cities due to its rich history and diverse culture.
8. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a city in the U.S. state of Washington. It is located in the western part of the state, near Puget Sound, an arm of the Pacific Ocean. In 2010, the city had an estimated population of 582,000, making it the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region of North America and one of its fastest-growing cities.[3] Seattle has had multiple nicknames throughout its history, including “Jet City” (from Boeing) and “Emerald City” (from its location).
Seattle was founded on June 6, 1851.[4][5] By 1900,[6][7] it was a major trade hub for gold miners and homesteaders looking for their piece of land at Pike Place Market or to find work at one of many factories along Elliott Bay’s waterfront area; by 1920,[8] railroads were built throughout much more than a half-century earlier until today’s rail network handles over 100 million travelers annually.[9][10][11]
9. Augustine, Florida – historical cities in the USA
St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied settlement of European origin in the continental United States. Founded by the Spanish in 1565, it’s the oldest city in the continental United States.
10. Washington D.C.
Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is one of the popular travel destinations in America. The city was founded on July 16, 1790, by George Washington and his surveyor Andrew Ellicott. It is divided into four quadrants: Northwest (N.W.), Northeast (N.E.), Southeast (S.E.), and Southwest (S.W.). The White House is located in the northwest quadrant, while U.S. Capitol Building is located in the northeast. Other famous landmarks include the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, etc., located on the National Mall in the southeast quadrant of D.C.
These Cities are the most historical cities in the USA
While the list is by no means exhaustive, here are some of our favorite historic cities in the United States:
- New York City: While not technically a city, New York is one of America’s most historic places. This bustling metropolis has been at the center of American culture since its inception and remains an economic powerhouse today.
- Boston: The oldest city in Massachusetts, Boston takes its name from “Bostun” or “Bostonsetlut” (A place where two streams meet). It was founded as a settlement on September 17, 1630, by Puritan settlers seeking religious freedom after being persecuted back home.
- Charleston: Founded in 1670 as Charles Towne due to King Charles II granting his permission for it to be named after him, this South Carolina city is full of history and charm! Its architecture reflects British and French influences, which you’ll notice everywhere you look – especially if you visit during Mardi Gras!
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you decide where to visit the United States. These cities are worth visiting, and we know that you will have a great time exploring each one. We look forward to hearing about your experiences and seeing your photos!
