deedeezee~ Why NOT Seattle? It has everything on mireaux7's list of requirements.

NYC & San Francisco the first ones that came to my mind. Public transportation, attractions, museums, entertainment, culture and many dining options are what makes those two tops to me. Then Seattle, Portland, San Diego, Austin and Chicago. I haven't been to Boston yet, though I have a feeling it will be a future fave.

I'd have to take issue with the idea that Orlando is a theme park. That sounds more like a comment from someone who went to Universal and Disney World and THOUGHT they saw Orlando, which is still a number of miles away. Yes, there is a CITY called Orlando. On the other hand, I do understand the idea as it relates to the city of Las Vegas.

Ok, here is my list that meets the majority of your requirements:

1. NYC - so much to do and much safer and cleaner than it used to be
2. San Francisco - again so much to do and safe and clean
3. Hawaiian Islands - I think this speaks for itself!
4. San Diego - beautiful place to visit, safe and clean
5. Seattle - again, a beautiful place that is clean and safe
6. Orlando - DISNEY!
7. Mackinac Island, MI - awesome in the summer!
8. Boston
9. LA Area
10. DC

New York is in a separate league (with London, Paris, Tokyo etc).

Disregarding NYC, I vote for Boston. Lots to see and do. A very walkable city with good public transit.

I've never been to NYC but it seems to me to be the ultimate city for tourists.
I am not a city person really but I liked Chicago a lot, also enjoyed DC, San Francisco and San Diego. LA leaves me cold. If it wasn't for having friends near Pasadena I would be happy never going there again! It is a nightmare place.
Boston was OK, but nothing that special to me - maybe as a European it is too much like European cities. Though not many European cities offer whale watching trips it's true.

New York City!

NYC

SF

Seattle

I'm biased, but here goes.

1. NYC
2. SF
3. Washington and Boston (tied)

Philadelphia

I grew up in New York and have no desire to see it again.

I've lived in or near San Francisco for the past 40 years and find it to be the most beautiful city in the US.

I like cities that are surrounded by natural beauty. SF has more parks and open space around it than any city I've seen. It also has the ocean and bay and two magnificent bridges.

Other cities in the US that compete in the natural beauty department are Seattle (when it's clear) and Honolulu (anytime).

Outside the US, my favorite cities are Barcelona and Vancouver and the best of all, Rio de Janeiro.

Seattle is a "no" for me for many reqsons:

Traffic, lack of stuff to do and see unless you are into coffee shops, Pike Place and outdoor ed.

The other cities have so much more to offer. Not to mention, the RAIN!

Sorry, but it's my opinion.

dear mireaux7

my favorite city
Philly, er I mean Philadelphia:

Fabulous trolley system (drop off/pick up as the trolley loops around the city)
Bicycle friendly
Historic
Hardly a horn honk
Easy to navigate

Rittenhouse Square (Devon, excellent seafood)
Penns Landing
Society Hill
Headhouse Square

gophila.com

I see many of your posts mentions NYC.

Me, not so much a fan of Manhattan. Probably because I am there every weekday (commuter).

I can understand how someone visiting could be overwhelmed and enthralled with the noise, lights, "energy."

People are not generally friendly or polite.

But if you have never been to the big apple, it is something you should do at least once.