1. New York City, New York
There’s a reason New Yorkers walk everywhere—it’s often faster than driving. According to Stacy Leasca from Travel and Leisure, it was named the most walkable city in America. With its well-connected grid, bustling sidewalks, and 24/7 subway system, NYC is a pedestrian’s dream. Neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and the Lower East Side are packed with character, making every stroll an adventure.
If you’re looking for convenience, just about everything is within reach on foot. Want a bagel? A coffee? A Broadway show? You can walk to them all within minutes in many parts of the city, making a car feel more like a burden than a necessity.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is one of the oldest cities in the U.S., and its compact layout was designed long before cars existed. The historic Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking route, takes you past some of America’s most important landmarks. Neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and the North End have charming cobblestone streets that make for a beautiful, if slightly bumpy, stroll. Plus, Boston’s public transit (the “T”) is there if you need a break.
You can easily walk from downtown to the waterfront, or from Fenway Park to the Boston Common, without breaking a sweat, according to Liz Hughes from Boston Agent Magazine. The city is also full of cozy cafes, perfect for resting your feet after exploring. And if you’re a seafood lover, a walk to the harbor means fresh oysters and lobster rolls are always within reach. Boston proves that history and walkability go hand in hand.
3. Washington, D.C.
The nation’s capital was built for walking, and it shows, Brittney Dunkins writes in GW Today. The National Mall is essentially a massive pedestrian park, stretching from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, with world-class museums and monuments in between. Dupont Circle, Georgetown, and Capitol Hill are packed with tree-lined streets, perfect for a leisurely stroll. And with a reliable Metro system, you can always hop on a train if your legs need a break.
D.C. also offers one of the best urban park experiences in the country. Rock Creek Park provides miles of wooded walking trails right in the middle of the city. Farmers’ markets, coffee shops, and historic homes make neighborhoods like Eastern Market and Logan Circle feel both vibrant and walkable. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this is a city best explored on foot.
4. San Francisco, California
San Francisco may have its famous hills, but don’t let that stop you from walking—it’s one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in America, according to Matt Lyons from PODS. Neighborhoods like North Beach, Chinatown, and the Mission are packed with culture, history, and some of the best food in the country. The waterfront along the Embarcadero offers stunning bay views, perfect for a long, breezy walk. And of course, you can’t visit without taking a stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Public transportation, including the iconic cable cars, makes it easy to avoid the steepest climbs. Plus, there are plenty of parks and stairway walks that turn even uphill hikes into an adventure. Whether you’re exploring Golden Gate Park or wandering through the Painted Ladies, this city makes walking both practical and fun. And when you’re done? A stop for sourdough bread and clam chowder is always within reach.
5. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is built for walking, with wide sidewalks, scenic parks, and an easy-to-navigate grid, Martha Maclaren writes in the Chicago Policy Review. The city’s waterfront trail along Lake Michigan offers some of the best urban walking in the country, with breathtaking skyline views. Neighborhoods like the Loop, Wicker Park, and Lincoln Park are packed with restaurants, boutiques, and historic architecture. And with the “L” train system covering the city, you can always ride between longer stretches.
One of the best parts of walking in Chicago is the food. You can wander from deep-dish pizza joints to classic hot dog stands, all while taking in the city’s stunning Art Deco buildings. Millennium Park, home to the famous Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), is a must-visit pedestrian hub. And with so many world-class museums and theaters within walking distance, you’ll never run out of things to explore.
6. Portland, Oregon
Portland’s love for pedestrians is no secret—this is a city built for those who prefer to get around on foot. The downtown area is compact and filled with walkable bridges, quirky shops, and food carts offering everything from gourmet doughnuts to authentic Thai street food. The Pearl District and Alberta Arts District are full of creative energy, with plenty of galleries and coffee shops to explore. And if you love the outdoors, Forest Park has over 80 miles of hiking trails right inside the city.
One of the best things about walking in Portland is how green it is. The city’s commitment to sustainability means you’ll find tree-lined streets, plenty of parks, and pedestrian-friendly crossings everywhere. Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world, is a perfect place to lose yourself on a long afternoon walk. And thanks to a top-tier public transit system, you can explore every corner of the city with ease.
7. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philly’s historic roots make it an incredibly walkable city, with much of the downtown area designed long before cars took over. The city’s grid layout makes navigating a breeze, whether you’re strolling through Old City or checking out the famous Reading Terminal Market. The Schuylkill River Trail offers a scenic riverside walk with skyline views, while Rittenhouse Square provides a peaceful green space in the heart of the city. Plus, everything from Independence Hall to the Liberty Bell is within walking distance.
Walking here also means food is always just steps away. You can wander from a cheesesteak spot to an Italian bakery in just a few blocks. Murals and public art add color to the streets, making every walk an unexpected visual treat. And if you ever need a break, the city’s SEPTA system makes it easy to get around without a car.
8. Seattle, Washington
Seattle might be known for its rainy weather, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the most walkable cities in America. Downtown, Pike Place Market is a pedestrian paradise, where you can stroll past fresh seafood vendors, flower stands, and coffee shops (yes, including the original Starbucks). Neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard are packed with cozy cafes, bookstores, and craft breweries, all within easy walking distance. And if you need a break, the city’s extensive bus and light rail system makes getting around a breeze.
One of the best things about walking in Seattle is the stunning scenery. You can take a waterfront stroll along Elliott Bay, with views of the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Discovery Park offers miles of walking trails with breathtaking Puget Sound views, all within city limits. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even walk onto a ferry and explore nearby islands without ever needing a car.
9. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is a city made for wandering, with its lively streets, historic architecture, and music spilling from every corner. The French Quarter is a pedestrian’s dream, with its narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and an endless array of restaurants and jazz clubs. The Garden District offers wide sidewalks lined with beautiful mansions and ancient oak trees, perfect for a slow, scenic walk. And with streetcars connecting many of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, you’ll never have to worry about driving.
Walking in New Orleans also means experiencing its unique culture up close. You can stumble upon a brass band parade, discover a hole-in-the-wall po’boy shop, or catch a second line celebration—all just by strolling through the city. The Riverwalk along the Mississippi offers a peaceful break from the bustle of Bourbon Street. And with mild winters, it’s a city where you can walk comfortably year-round.
10. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of walkability, but it absolutely deserves a spot on this list. The downtown area is compact and easy to explore on foot, with the added bonus of the city’s famous Skyway system—an enclosed network of pedestrian bridges that keeps walkers warm in the winter. The Chain of Lakes offers some of the best urban walking in the country, with scenic trails connecting Lake Harriet, Bde Maka Ska, and Lake of the Isles. And in neighborhoods like Northeast and Uptown, you’ll find plenty of restaurants, breweries, and parks within easy walking distance.
One of the best parts of walking in Minneapolis is its commitment to outdoor space. The city is packed with parks, trails, and green spaces, making it feel more like a walkable small town than a major metropolitan area. The Stone Arch Bridge, a historic pedestrian-only bridge over the Mississippi River, offers some of the best views of the city skyline. And with an efficient light rail system, it’s easy to explore different parts of the city without a car.
11. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is one of the most charming cities in America, and its walkability is a big reason why. The historic district is full of cobblestone streets, pastel-colored homes, and waterfront views, making every stroll feel like a step back in time. The Battery, a scenic promenade lined with grand mansions and centuries-old oak trees, is a must-visit for any pedestrian. And with its compact layout, you can easily walk from the bustling City Market to hidden alleyways filled with history.
Walking in Charleston also means easy access to incredible food. Whether you’re craving shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, or a classic Lowcountry boil, you’ll find some of the best Southern cuisine within a few blocks. The city’s slower pace makes it a great place to take your time, whether you’re exploring historic churches or browsing antique shops. And with its mild climate, Charleston is a fantastic walking city year-round.
12. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah was designed with pedestrians in mind, and it shows in its unique city layout. The city’s historic district is built around 22 picturesque squares, each one a shaded oasis filled with Spanish moss-draped trees and park benches. River Street, with its old cobblestones and lively waterfront, is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. And with its charming architecture and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to wander without a plan.
One of the best things about walking in Savannah is the sense of history you feel at every turn. From centuries-old mansions to hidden courtyards, the city is filled with little details that make every walk memorable. Forsyth Park, with its iconic fountain and sprawling green space, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city on foot. And with open-container laws allowing you to sip a drink as you stroll, it’s one of the most laid-back and enjoyable walking cities in the country.
