Discover some of the most fascinating ghost towns in the American landscape, where history meets mystery and adventure.
If you’re looking for a truly eerie and abandoned place to visit in the United States, you don’t have to go far. Many ghost towns dot the American landscape, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in exploring a forgotten mining town or an abandoned village, there’s sure to be a ghost town that will pique your interest. Keep reading to find out the top 10 ghost towns in America that are definitely worth a visit.
Calico, California Key Features:
Calico Ghost Town Museum
Hiking and camping spots
Shops and restaurants Example: Spend a day exploring the museum to learn about the history of Calico, then enjoy a hike in the desert and finish with a meal at one of the local restaurants.
Bodie, California Key Features:
Well-preserved buildings
Spacious, empty streets Example: Wander through the town imagining the hustle and bustle that once filled the air, perhaps hearing echoes of laughter and music from long ago.
St. Elmo, Colorado Key Features:
Well-preserved buildings
Eerie atmosphere Example: Visit the town to explore its rich history and see if you can spot any paranormal activity. Who knows, maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of something supernatural!
Belmont, Nevada Key Features:
Old buildings and mining equipment
Camping in the desert Example: Explore the remains of Belmont’s architecture and get a feel for what life was like over a century ago. Spend the night camping in the desert for an added sense of adventure.
Jerome, Arizona Key Features:
Haunted history
Abandoned buildings
Restaurants and cafes Example: Explore the ghost town during the day and grab a meal at one of the local eateries, but be prepared for a spine-chilling experience filled with paranormal activity.
Rhyolite, Nevada Key Features:
Stone buildings and ruins
Local museum documenting the town’s history Example: Visit the museum to understand Rhyolite’s brief but booming history, then roam through the ruins to feel the ghostly echoes of its past.
Kennecott, Alaska Key Features:
Abandoned buildings
Hiking trails Example: Take a guided tour to learn about the history of Kennecott, then hit the hiking trails to explore the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
Terlingua, Texas Key Features:
Abandoned mines
Old cemetery
Ghost Town Railway Example: Ride the Ghost Town Railway and then visit the old cemetery to soak in the haunted history and Wild West vibes.
Goldfield, Arizona Key Features:
Vintage narrow gauge railroad
Local museum
Well-preserved buildings Example: Explore the museum and take a ride on the narrow gauge railroad for a nostalgic trip back to the era of the gold rush.
St. Deroin, Nebraska Key Features:
Boarding up buildings
Empty, silent streets Example: Walk the deserted streets and hear the wind blow through the town, pondering the spooky legend of the curse that doomed St. Deroin.
So pack your bags and get ready for some spooky fun! If you’re looking for a ghost town to explore, these are some of the best in the country. Have you visited any of them? If not, be sure to add one (or all!) of them to your bucket list – you won’t regret it!
Many dream of finding and living in a top city. The Global Liveability Index by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) checks cities every year. It looks at things like safety, health care, and education. Also, the environment and how good the roads and buildings are. The study found that cities are better to live in now than in the past 15 years. This is because COVID-19 rules are getting easier, and cities are improving their health care, culture, education, and roads.
The best places to live are in different parts of the world. This year, no U.S. cities made the top 10. Cities like Amsterdam and Frankfurt are now behind Australian places. Vienna in Austria is still the best city to live, with Zurich in Switzerland and Vancouver in Canada close behind. These cities do great at providing quality of life. Here are some cities known for taking good care of their people:
Key Takeaways
The Global Liveability Index scores 173 cities worldwide.
Evaluation is based on stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure.
Melbourne, Australia, and Osaka, Japan, share the 10th spot with a rating of 95.1.
Toronto, Canada, ranks 8th with a score of 95.4.
Vienna, Austria, consistently tops the list of the world’s most livable cities.
Understanding Livability Rankings
Livability rankings tell us about the quality of life in different cities. They look at things like safety, healthcare, and schools, showing us how good life is in these places.
Criteria for Ranking
The system looks at about 100 things, from job rates to air quality. These factors help score how livable a city is.
Livability Scores are given based on this data. They help show which cities are the best to live in. Only cities with homes under $500,000 were in this part of the ranking.
Recent Trends and Changes
Things are getting better in a lot of cities, according to the latest scores. This is thanks to getting past COVID-19 rules and improving in areas like healthcare.
In Europe, 7 of the top 10 cities on the list are doing great. London is in the middle, while cities like Prague and Warsaw are rising fast. Places facing conflicts, like Kyiv, are finding it harder to stay high on the list.
City
Ranking
Region
San Francisco
37
North America
Singapore
29
Asia
Auckland
3
Oceania
Vancouver
8
Canada
London
45
Europe
The Livability list helps us find great places to live, from beaches to big cities. It also shares special lists, like for food lovers and music fans, making it more fun to explore.
The Most Livable Cities According to the EIU
The EIU Global Liveability Index checks 172 cities to find the best to live in. It looks at things like safety, healthcare, culture, and more. Vienna, Austria is 2023’s top city. It’s been the best since 2022. It scores 100 for safety. Copenhagen, Denmark, is the second-best city, also with a top safety score.
Melbourne and Sydney in Australia are now third and fourth. They shine in many areas like healthcare and culture. Then there’s Vancouver, Canada, at fifth. It’s known for its great living from 2002 to 2010.
Western cities mostly fill the top spots. Melbourne was the best for seven years. Calgary and Toronto often rank well, too. It’s because of their good living conditions.
The most improved cities are in Asia-Pacific. Wellington, New Zealand, got 23rd, up by 35 places. Cities in Saudi Arabia are doing better, too.
But some European cities are falling. For example, Edinburgh went from 35th to 58th place.
Cities are getting better overall, with an average score of 76.2. Healthcare got a lot better. But safety didn’t do as well.
Zurich, Geneva, Toronto, Osaka, and Auckland are in the top ten, too. They offer well-rounded good living.
The EIU index shows how cities’ quality of life changes. American cities are absent in the top, showing global competition to be better.
Expat Features: Best Cities in the World
Each year, InterNations finds the top cities for people living away from their home country. This list includes things expats really care about. These are like quality of life, how easy it is to settle in, and if they’re happy there.
Top Picks by Expats
In top spots are places like Malaga, Spain, because it’s warm, has lots of culture, and a good work and life mix. Alicante and Valencia in Spain are also loved. They show Spain’s pull with its low cost, friendly vibe, and deep culture. These places are great for a balanced life for those moving from other countries.
Common Factors for Expats
For big favorites among expats, think of Vienna, Zurich, and Auckland. They rank high for their good living, easy to fit in, and nice areas. European spots like Munich and Frankfurt are big too, showing what draws many to Europe’s great living styles.
City
Country
Ranking
Vienna
Austria
1st
Zurich
Switzerland
2nd
Auckland
New Zealand
3rd
Vancouver
Canada
5th
Singapore
Singapore
29th
Dubai
UAE
79th
Port Louis
Mauritius
88th
Vancouver, Canada stands out in North America for its city life and outdoor fun. It’s the only North American spot in the top-tier. But, some places in the U.S. like Miami and New York City have seen happier expats because of high costs and stress.
Exploring the Unique Traits of Top Cities
Cities on the Global Cities Index have special features that make them top. These unique traits make them great places to live.
Many top cities have lots of public green spaces. Berlin and Dubai are good examples. They have big areas for people to relax. Also, this green space helps make the cities look better. It helps the environment too.
Cities also have strong communities. In Copenhagen, many people use bikes instead of cars. This makes people closer and helps the planet. San Francisco is working on making more places to charge electric cars.
New York and Paris are big on the Global Cities lists. They are doing well because they have good healthcare and jobs. The people there are smart and creative. Both cities are working hard to be greener.
Here’s a quick look at some of the best cities’ cool features:
Investment in green spaces, Over 400 EV charging stations
Tiergarten, Tempelhofer Feld
Historical and cultural inclusion
Copenhagen
First carbon-neutral city by 2025, Bicycle culture
Kongens Have, Ørstedsparken
Inclusion through bike commuting
Dubai
Self-sustainable via renewable energy, Ban on single-use plastics
60% green space irrigated with gray wastewater
Recycling initiatives, Renewable energy adoption
These unique features show us what makes cities great. Places like green areas and strong communities matter a lot. They help make cities better.
Conclusion
Many things come together to make some cities great to live in. Things like good healthcare and schools, and a rich cultural scene. According to the EIU’s Global Liveability Index, places such as Mexico City and London stand out. They do well in different parts of city life. For example, Mexico City is very busy and hard-working. But, Buenos Aires is the most rested city in the world. Its people sleep around ten hours every night.
When planning cities for the future, we should learn from these studies. Cape Town, for example, is praised for its beauty and happy residents. It also has a great cultural life. This shows how important these things are for people’s well-being. Yet, places like New Delhi face big problems. Its long commutes cause a lot of traffic. These issues need fixing too.
The best cities are always working to get better. Cities such as Berlin and London are leading in fun and happiness. They show how cities can compete to be the best places to live. Knowing about these changes can help us pick where to live. It also guides leaders in making cities better for us. So, making cities people love is an endless journey. It’s all about changing and creating new ways for cities to thrive.
FAQ
What are the top liveable cities according to the EIU’s Global Liveability Index?
Every year, the EIU checks many cities for how good they are to live in. They look at things like safety, health, and education. Cities like Vienna, Melbourne, and Zurich are often at the top.
How is the Global Liveability Index score determined?
The score comes from looking at a city’s safety, health, fun things to do, schools, and roads. By seeing how well a city does in these areas, it gets a number score. This score decides if it’s a good place to live.
Why have some European cities dropped in their livability rankings?
Australian cities have taken the place of some in Europe in recent rankings. This change is due to better living conditions there, lifting of COVID-19 rules, and improved health and roads.
Why are there no US cities in the top 10 of the Global Liveability Index?
The US is not in the top 10 in the 2023 report. High living costs, work pressures, and other problems keep them out of the best places to live list.
What makes Malaga, Spain, the top city for expats?
Expat City Rankings from InterNations love Malaga for its weather and culture. It offers a good balance between work and life. Even with less job chances, it’s still a dream place to live because of its overall quality.
What criteria are commonly evaluated in Expat City Rankings?
These rankings look at quality of life, how easy it is to fit in, cost of living, jobs, and social opportunities. By looking at these things, we can tell which cities are best for people moving from elsewhere.
How did COVID-19 impact the livability scores of cities?
COVID-19 made life scores go down because it affected health, culture, and peace. When things started getting better, scores improved too. More fun and better health made cities better places to live.
What are some unique characteristics of top liveable cities?
The best cities have lots of parks, good health systems, happy people, easy ways to move around, and care about the Earth. This makes life enjoyable and healthy in these places.
What insights can policymakers gain from livability rankings?
Rankings help leaders see what they can do to make cities better to live in. They show how cities do in health, education, roads, and helping people. This guides them in planning how to make cities nicer for everyone.
How can you capture Italy’s beauty in just one week in Italy? The key is a journey through Rome Florence Venice guide. Each turn tells a story, every cobblestone is filled with history, and Renaissance art comes alive. This trip is more than a vacation; it’s a journey through Rome’s grandeur, Florence’s artistry, and Venice’s serene canals.
As the Grand Canal of Venice comes alive with water taxis and the sunset paints Florence’s buildings golden, a question arises. What secrets do these cities hold for those willing to explore beyond the usual paths? For those looking to discover Italy’s hidden gems, venturing off the beaten path is key. It’s about connecting with Italy’s heart and soul.
The sound of water against gondolas in Venice, ready to take you under the Bridge of Sighs, tells a story of a city with a dwindling population. Yet, Florence awaits, a city with a big heart, offering history through ancient wine windows and the Duomo. This grand city welcomes everyone, offering inspiration without charge.
Train travel in Italy makes exploring these cities easy, with Venice and Florence just 1.5 hours apart. Planning your Italy’s iconic cities itinerary is exciting. Do you want to see the sunset crowds at Piazzale Michelangelo or enjoy a Florentine gelato class? Visit during the shoulder months for the best weather, fewer crowds, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Rome, Florence, and Venice each tell part of Italy’s story. A first-time trip might include three nights in Rome, two days in Florence, and two nights in Venice. Let the cities guide you, from a gondola serenade at dusk to the scent of Tuscan wines. Italy welcomes everyone, seasoned travelers or first-timers, with open arms.
A Cultural Journey Through Venice: The City of Canals
Exploring Italy’s culture takes you to Venice, a city full of charm. It’s a must-see spot in Italy, known as the Queen of Canals. Venice offers a unique experience with its beautiful canals, stunning architecture, and lively local life.
Start your journey by walking through famous places like St. Marks Square and winding streets. Every corner reveals something new, from the world’s narrowest streets to the stunning Duomo. Planning your visit well is key to enjoying the city’s beauty without the crowds, especially in spring and early autumn.
As you ride a gondola on the Grand Canal, you’ll see the Rialto Bridge and the lively scenes there. The canals are not just for transportation; they help keep Venice’s ecosystem balanced. This shows why sustainable tourism is important.
Next, dive into Venice’s food scene. Try authentic dishes at Ristorante Trattoria Cherubino or have a limoncello spritz at Al Cinema Italia. The nights here are full of Venetian charm. Staying at Hotel Belle Epoque lets you experience traditional Venetian style, close to the train station.
Venice’s culture and its environmental challenges show the importance of careful tourism. Its beautiful architecture and community spirit make it stand out in Italy. When planning your visit, take your time and fully experience Venice. This way, you’ll truly appreciate this Italian gem.
Immersive Art and History in Florence: Tuscany’s Crown Jewel
Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance. It offers a unique blend of history and culture. Make sure to visit the historic center, packed with ancient landmarks and lively markets. The Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia museum are must-sees, with tours for just ten and nine people, respectively. This lets you get up close with famous artworks.
Adding Tuscany wine tasting to your trip is a great idea. You can visit the Tuscan countryside, see historic sites like Villa di Poggio a Caiano, and enjoy the famous wines. After exploring Florence, you can head to the countryside or go to Rome, making your trip even more memorable.
Florence is easy to get to, thanks to Florence International Airport, just 20 minutes away. You can take the ATAF Volainbus shuttle or tramways to the city center. There are many places to stay, from the Granduomo to cozy bed-and-breakfasts like FuordArno, for all budgets.
Don’t forget to explore the artisan shops in Oltrarno and climb the Duomo for amazing views. Every part of your Florence city itinerary adds to a rich Italian experience. You’ll see the best of art, history, and culture that Florence has to offer.
Italy’s Iconic Cities Itinerary: A Seamless Blend of History and Modernity
Starting an Italy city itinerary takes you on a journey into the heart of Italy’s charm. It’s a mix of the old and new in Rome, Florence, and Venice. This guide helps you see the best of both worlds.
Rome begins with ancient wonders like the Colosseum. Florence is next, where art comes alive. You feel the past and present here, standing in front of Michelangelo’s David.
Then, Venice offers a world of mystery with its canals and squares. It’s a place where time seems to stand still.
By exploring Italy’s culture, you get to know Italy’s true spirit. Each city has its own vibe that adds to the Italian experience. From Venice’s canals to Florence’s Uffizi gallery, every moment is special.
Italy’s train system makes traveling between cities easy and fun. It connects Rome, Florence, and Venice beautifully. This lets you dive deep into Italy’s history and culture.
A great Italy city itinerary takes you from Rome’s history to Florence’s art and Venice’s beauty. This journey shows how Italy’s cities have evolved. It also highlights their timeless charm around the world.
The Eternal City: Discovering Rome’s Timeless Splendor
Starting a week in Italy means diving into Rome’s vibrant culture and history. This city is a must-see, attracting millions each year. It’s filled with art and history, making it a unique experience.
The Colosseum, built in AD 70-80, shows Rome’s powerful past. It was the heart of Roman entertainment. Imagine the stories it could tell.
At the Roman Forum, you can feel the city’s ancient energy. It was the center of the empire. You’ll see the Temple of Saturn and the Arch of Titus, taking you back in time.
Then, visit the Pantheon, a wonder of ancient engineering. It’s still impressive today. Near it is Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums. These places are full of art and faith.
Rome is more than just history. Its streets, like those to the Trevi Fountain, are full of life. Tossing a coin into the fountain means you’ll return, keeping Rome’s charm alive in your heart.
Don’t miss the Spanish Steps, a beautiful staircase with great views. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. As your Italy trip ends, Rome’s mix of old and new will stay with you, celebrating Italy’s enduring beauty.
