Craving the best in American architecture? Explore these four cities

As the third-largest country on Earth, the United States spans approximately 2,600 miles in width and 1,500 miles in length. Its diverse culture and geography surpass many larger or similarly sized nations.

While this vast size and diversity make it a prime destination for new experiences, it also comes with a challenge—finding the nation’s most impressive buildings. With so much to see across such a wide expanse, it can be difficult to know where to start when planning your travels.

However, for those drawn to skyscrapers, grand monuments, and awe-inspiring structures, the good news is that many of America’s most iconic buildings are concentrated in just four major cities. To experience the best of the best in the shortest time, consider the following travel guide.

Explore towering skyscrapers and much more in Manhattan

New York City is undoubtedly one of the best places to admire some of the world’s most iconic buildings.

In Midtown, you’ll encounter architectural masterpieces like the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, the New York Public Library, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Grand Central Terminal, the Waldorf Astoria, and Carnegie Hall.

On the Upper East Side, you’ll discover The Metropolitan Museum of Art; on the Upper West Side, the Rose Center for Earth and Space. Down south, be sure to check out the legendary Flatiron Building and the historic Brooklyn Bridge.

In New York City, it's both the abundance and the excellence.

Seek a ‘wow’ factor in Washington, DC

While New York is overflowing with architectural marvels, Washington, DC boasts a higher concentration of iconic and world-renowned buildings and monuments in a much smaller area.

For instance, on the western side of the National Mall, you can visit four major monuments within walking distance of one another: the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

The White House can be seen from the Washington Monument. Designed by Irish architect James Hoban, this grand residence covers a modest 55,000 square feet.

Self-guided tours are available for free, but must be arranged through a Member of Congress or the appropriate embassy for international visitors in Washington, DC.

At the eastern end of the Mall, you'll find the Capitol Building, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress.

Similar to the White House, the neoclassical Capitol Building has been in use since 1800. While admission to the four-acre complex is free, passes are required for guided tours, which must be booked in advance.

While you're in town, make sure to drive 20 minutes north to visit the Washington National Cathedral, the second largest church in the U.S.

Make Chicago a priority from the water

Chicago is renowned worldwide for its architecture, and one of the best ways to experience much of it is by taking a 90-minute guided river cruise along the Chicago River.

In short, there's no better way to take it all in at once.

Chicago is packed with iconic structures, including the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower, Tribune Tower, Montgomery Ward Complex, Old Post Office, Lake Point Tower, Sofitel Water Tower, and the John Hancock Center, to name a few.

After your river cruise, head to the Art Institute of Chicago to admire its architectural masterpiece and one of the finest art collections in the country. Don't miss the famous “Cloud Gate” sculpture (also known as “The Bean”) in the nearby Millennium Park.

Fall in love with San Francisco

Thanks in part to the 1849 Gold Rush, which continues to inspire the region through nearby Silicon Valley, San Francisco is home to some of the most impressive architectural feats in America.

And nothing is more iconic than the Golden Gate Bridge, a stunning suspension bridge that has symbolized America since its completion in 1937. For the best views, head to Baker Beach or Crissy Field on the southern side.

As you head into downtown, ideally by cable car, make sure to visit the opulent Fairmont Hotel (1907), the grand City Hall (1915), and the striking Transamerica Pyramid (1972).

Finally, don't miss a trip to Giants Stadium. Whether you're a baseball enthusiast or not, the architecture and the location make it well worth your time.

Honestly, the stunning backdrop of San Francisco enhances the beauty of many of the city's landmarks.

Explore other noteworthy locations

While the four cities mentioned above offer enough architectural marvels to fill several weeks of exploration, America’s finest buildings are spread across the country in smaller collections.

In St. Louis, Missouri, visitors can admire the iconic Gateway Arch, a striking steel structure designed by architect Eero Saarinen.

In Los Angeles, the Getty Center and Union Station stand out as architectural masterpieces.

In Asheville, North Carolina, visitors can explore the sprawling 135,000-square-foot Biltmore Estate, the largest privately owned home in America and a true architectural gem.

Like the country they inhabit, all of the aforementioned landmarks are grand, daring, and stunningly beautiful.