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America's 30 Best Cities for Stunning Art, Architecture

Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated:: 9:00 AM ET, Thu September 27, 2018

America's Visual Gems

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Every American city is different and while many share a passion for art and architecture only a select few cities stand out for their ability to showcase each in the most unique way possible.

Chicago, Illinois

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The Windy City is without a doubt the best Midwest city for art and architecture. Beyond the renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the city is home to the famed Cloud Gate (The Bean) and Willis Tower, perhaps better known as Sears Tower.

Washington, DC

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The nation's capital boasts both sublime art and architecture in abundance. In addition to museums, Washington, D.C. offers countless buildings and structures travelers won't find anywhere else.

New York, New York

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No surprises here. New York celebrates art and design at every turn. Visitors won't want to skip town without having experienced The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the city's magnificent skyline is unrivaled.

Los Angeles, California

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Out West, Los Angeles is undoubtedly among the top cities for architecture and art enthusiasts. Each of the expansive destination's many neighborhoods offers something different but equally fascinating.

Seattle, Washington

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The new-look Space Needle is certainly the most iconic landmark in the Pacific Northwest but that architectural feat is just the beginning of Seattle's uniqueness.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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Philadelphia's rich history contributes to its spectacular architecture. Visitors will find modern gems as well as historic buildings that played a key role in the development of America.

Las Vegas, Nevada

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The Las Vegas Strip is unmatched when it comes to visual stimulation but Sin City has a lot more to offer art enthusiasts, including a handful of galleries and museums ready to capture their imaginations.

San Francisco, California

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From the San Francisco Museum of Art to the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Area is the ideal city for travelers seeking inspiration.

Dallas, Texas

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Dallas is home to a slew of famous buildings such as Reunion Tower and Dealey Plaza but it's also a phenomenal stop for art lovers. The city's Arts District is one of the best in the country, boasting a collection that ranges from ancient times to now.

Baltimore, Maryland

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Interesting art and architecture aren't hard to find in Baltimore. Head to the Inner Harbor to see some of the more eye-popping structures on the East Coast or tour any one of the city's exceptional art museums.

Jackson, Mississippi

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Jackson is home to the Mississippi Museum of Art and a handful of incredible buildings. It's also renowned for its music history, earning the nickname the City with Soul.

Providence, Rhode Island

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The Rhode Island School of Design is located in Providence as well as other prominent art universities so visitors can expect to find plenty of original works here.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

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Santa Fe boasts more than 200 art galleries and a handful of museums but the city also offers plenty of special architecture, music, dancing and acting.

New Orleans, Louisiana

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Visitors to New Orleans will want to head to Jackson Square to find local artists showcasing original works. Pick up a souvenir oil painting or drawing before touring the city's highly-rated art museums.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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San Juan's stunning colonial architecture is complemented by vibrant colors. Visitors will be left in awe of the Puerto Rican capital's countless historic buildings, including Castillo San Cristobal.

Richmond, Virginia

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Richmond is undoubtedly one of America's most creative cities. It's home to multiple arts centers and celebrates all things art and culture for an entire month every October during "Artober."

Houston, Texas

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Houston's skyline has changed dramatically in a relatively short period of time. Today, it boasts the third-largest skyline in the country and one of the most unique as it features architectural styles spanning several eras.

Atlanta, Georgia

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Whether you prefer captivating museums or eye-catching street murals and installations, Atlanta is guaranteed to entertain. The High Museum of Art in Midtown is a must.

Asheville, North Carolina

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If there are two things Asheville does better than most if not any other city in America, it's craft beer and art. The River Arts District near downtown can't be topped and one-of-a-kind structures like the Biltmore Estate aren't far away.

Marfa, Texas

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Although it might be the last place on earth you'd expect to look, Marfa is hands-down one of the best art cities in America. The artworks you'll find here aren't like anything you'll see anywhere else and the rest of the world has taken notice.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Not only is Pittsburgh among the world's most livable cities but it's home to well over 400 bridges, making it an architect's dream destination. The Steel City is also the site of the Andy Warhol Museum.

Knoxville, Tennessee

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When you think of Knoxville you think of the University of Tennessee and the Sunsphere. The latter is an iconic symbol of the 1982 World's Fair that stretches over 260 feet into the sky and is just one example of this city's individuality.

Detroit, Michigan

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Detroit is certainly known as the birthplace of Motown but it's also a center for incredible art and architecture. The awe-inspiring Renaissance Center is a must-visit and travelers definitely won't want to miss the city's artists market.

Charleston, South Carolina

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Charleston owes its architectural charm to its lengthy history. Visitors to this iconic southern city will see colonial buildings, Victorian sites and even Art Deco developments.

Buffalo, New York

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Architecture buffs have likely fallen in love with Buffalo's offerings long ago. This city has it all, including designs such as the Guaranty Building that inspired and helped shape other city skylines across America.

Savannah, Georgia

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A slew of art museums and galleries await in Savannah. Visitors should head to City Market to see the best of the city's local artists. You can also RSVP for the Savannah Art Walk every second Saturday through June 2019.

Boston, Massachusetts

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The architecture of Boston ranges from late 18th century buildings to modern achievements and the city's art scene certainly doesn't disappoint either.

Cincinnati, Ohio

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Cincinnati offers visitors impressive art museums and contemporary galleries as well as a plethora of parks showcasing a wide array of intriguing architecture ranging from Great Depression era to modern.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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The Milwaukee Art Museum is home to almost 25,000 works, making it one of the largest museums in the country. However, this Midwest city also features incredible architectural accomplishments, from City Hall to the Tripoli Shrine Center resembling India's Taj Mahal.

St. Louis, Missouri

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The iconic Gateway Arch-the world's tallest at 630 feet-is synonymous with St. Louis but the city also includes one of America's chief art museums (Saint Louis Art Museum) and plenty of enticing galleries that have been around for decades.

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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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