Seattle Named the Most Beautiful City in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure
In a well-deserved announcement, Travel + Leisure has named Seattle the most beautiful city in the U.S., based on insights from a lively Reddit thread where well-traveled users weighed in on their top picks. While cities like San Francisco and Honolulu were popular contenders, it was Seattle’s unique blend of urban innovation and natural wonder that stole the show. From its dramatic skyline to snow-capped Mount Rainier and glimmering waterfront, Seattle offers beauty from every angle.
Travelers praised the Emerald City for its breathtaking views, vibrant greenery, and seamless access to nature. Kayaking across Lake Union, hiking in Discovery Park, or watching the sunset from Kerry Park were among the beloved experiences shared by commenters. In summer, Seattle’s long days and mild weather add a golden glow to its iconic views, while even its famously overcast days add a touch of drama that’s undeniably photogenic.
What resonated most with travelers was Seattle’s feel: “walkable,” and “so green it’s like a fairytale,” were common refrains in the thread. From Seattle’s new waterfront and Pike Place Market to the unique flavor of its neighborhoods, Seattle’s welcoming vibe, public art, and cozy cafés elevate it beyond just a pretty face; it’s a place that invites you in. Visitors and locals alike appreciate how it balances urban sophistication with an easygoing, outdoorsy lifestyle.
The city’s visual identity is further enhanced by architectural icons like the Space Needle, the colorful Chihuly Garden and Glass, and the sculptural Museum of Pop Culture. Add to that a year-round calendar of local markets and cultural events, like the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF), and you get a city that’s not only beautiful, but full of energy, art, and community expression.
In addition to topping Travel + Leisure‘s list, 2025 has been a banner year for Seattle across multiple lifestyle and innovation rankings. It claimed #19 in the World’s Best Cities Report, earned a top 10 ranking from the Trust for Public Land for its expansive, accessible park system, and was featured by AFAR as one of the best U.S. cities for cherry blossom viewing. On the tech front, Seattle placed #6 in CoWorkingCafe.com’s The U.S. Top 10 for Tech and Sustainability and took home multiple honors from the 2025 GeekWire Awards and Seattle ORBIE Awards, highlighting its thriving startup culture and leadership in AI.
Ready to experience Seattle for yourself? From natural wonders to tech innovations and award-winning eats, the Emerald City continues to prove it’s as impressive as it is beautiful, and Spire places you on the edge of it all.
Now 90% sold, just 35 homes remain at Spire! There’s still time to claim your favorite Seattle view. Our remaining selection of new condominiums includes upper-level and view residences showcasing Seattle’s skyline and Space Needle, plus breathtaking, unobstructed Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains views.
Join us for an inspired tour of your dream home. Please call 206.494.0094 or email sales@spireseattle.com to schedule your appointment.
