20 Places In The US To Visit Without A Car

Summary

• Some popular US cities are walkable and better visited without cars; consider public transport options.
• Choose destinations to visit without a car that offer efficient public transit, such as Newark, Nantucket, and Charleston, or explore Amtrak rail trips.
• Walkable cities in America like Philadelphia, Honolulu, and Savannah offer attractions and easy access without a car required.

Driving is a popular way of getting around many of the United States’ most beautiful towns. However, travelers won’t need a car in all places, as some destinations are better explored on foot. Car-free vacations not only make sense financially, but they’re also a better way of preserving the environment – and there are lots of walkable cities in the US that don’t require a vehicle for visitors to get around.

However, it becomes challenging to decide where to go; iconic tourist spots like New York City and Los Angeles are easy choices, seeing as they’re major US cities with the best public transportation systems, while some are best visited by rail (like via the numerous Amtrak train trips where a car isn’t needed at the destination). But there are a number of less obvious cities and towns to visit without a car, which are just as walkable as many of the most famous cities in America.

In these places in the US to visit without a car, vacationers will be able to stroll a lot of the major attractions with ease, or else utilize efficient public transport systems that render vehicle necessity null and void. Wondering where to visit without a car? Here are some of the best places in the US to visit without a car or any kind of vehicle.

UPDATE: 2024/03/09 20:04 EST BY REENA JAIN

20 Cities Where Travelers Don’t Need A Car

Many American cities are well-known for their walkability, effective public transportation, and well-developed infrastructure, which allow visitors to pleasantly explore the city without the need for a car. We have added two more of the most walkable US cities to visit without a vehicle to the list and updated earlier entries with new, more up-to-date and information.

20 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Discover walkable historic sites and reliable public transit

Philadelphia is regarded as one of the country’s best walking cities, allowing visitors to stroll through residential streets that are lined with a variety of stores, eateries, museums, and green spaces. With dedicated bike lanes and miles of trails, it is indeed easy to explore the city without a car.

Taking the Philly PHLASH (shuttle), which makes stops at some of the city’s most popular attractions, is another convenient way to tour the city. In addition to all of these choices, travelers may travel anywhere they need to go using SEPTA’s extensive public transportation network. All these options for getting around the city make Philadelphia one of the best places to travel without a car.

19 Honolulu, Hawaii

Efficient bus system, walkable neighborhoods, bike-friendly paths

Honolulu, the most popular city in Hawaii, is without a doubt one of the USA’s best places to visit without a car. The city’s public transportation system, TheBus, is dependable and user-friendly, while the Waikiki Trolley is a good option for reaching the major tourist destinations.

Cycling is also one of the most enjoyable ways to see the sights here. Some of the well-known bike routes are the 4.3-mile Waikiki Loop, the protected bike lane on South King Street, and the tracks surrounding Magic Island Lagoon. Plus, it’s easy to walk to many of the city’s historic gems, like the Hawaiian Mission Houses, Iolani Palace, and Aloha Tower.

18 Savannah, Georgia

Walkable downtown, bike-friendly, efficient public transportation

Savannah, Georgia, consistently ranks among the affordable vacation spots in the US that won’t break the bank and is renowned for its walkability. Its meticulously planned historic district features grid-style streets with oak-lined avenues and cobblestone lanes, which make those streets perfect for a walk. Travelers can explore Savannah’s 22 historic squares, each with a distinct character, showcasing lush gardens, ornate fountains, and statues.

Travelers can also meander along the Savannah Riverfront and enjoy the river views and vibrant markets. The city’s rich history is displayed through well-preserved antebellum architecture, offering glimpses into its past. Moreover, the city is said to be very haunted; walking ghost tours and spooky activities in Savannah are also popular, as is staying in any of Savannah’s numerous haunted hotels!

• What to see and do: River Street Savannah, Historic Landmark District, Forsyth Park
• How to get around without a car: Walk, bike, DOT shuttles and ferries
• Best time to visit: March to May and September to November when the city comes alive with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant fall foliage in fall

17 Denver, Colorado

Efficient public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure

Denver’s efficient public transportation system, including light rail and buses, provides easy access to its diverse neighborhoods and attractions. This makes it one of the best cities in the US to visit without a car, and travelers can discover the vibrant arts scene of the Art District on Santa Fe, culinary delights at the lively Union Station, and embrace nature’s tranquility along the scenic Cherry Creek Trail.

From historic landmarks like Larimer Square to the bustling 16th Street Mall, Denver’s pedestrian-friendly layout ensures a car-free adventure brimming with culture, cuisine, and captivating sights.

16 Santa Fe, New Mexico

Walkable downtown, buses, bike paths

Santa Fe is one of the best places to visit in New Mexico during spring, and travelers don’t need a car to discover its wonders. A convenient way to discover the city is on foot, as visitors can stroll and admire its adobe-style architecture and narrow streets.

Travelers can also wander through the historic Plaza, the heart of Santa Fe, where Native American and Spanish cultures converge. Art galleries dot Canyon Road, showcasing diverse creativity. The Railyard Arts District offers a blend of galleries, markets, and cafés. Meandering to the Cathedral Basilica of Loretto Chapel reveals awe-inspiring architectural marvels.

• What to see and do: New Mexico Museum of Art, Canyon Road (Art Galleries District), Loretto Chapel
• How to get around without a car: Walk, bike, buses, ridesharing
• Best time to visit: September to November and March to June for mild weather

15 Charleston, South Carolina

Walkable downtown, bike-friendly, reliable public transportation

Charleston, South Carolina, is another one of the many excellent car-free destinations in the US to visit. Travelers can discover its cobblestone streets and charming alleys while heading to historical buildings like the Rainbow Row’s pastel townhouses, and the historic City Market, and check the antebellum homes along the Battery promenade.

Charleston is walkable and one of the best cities to explore without a car, especially since there is a free trolley service within the historic center for visitors, and there is sufficient bus transportation available around the region.

Meanwhile, the Waterfront Park offers serene harbor views, and King Street beckons with boutique shopping and culinary delights. From its Southern hospitality to architectural marvels, Charleston is a picturesque city that seems to be pretty much made for pedestrians.

14 Portland, Maine

Local shuttles, bike-friendly paths, Metro

As it’s very walkable, bike-friendly, and offers efficient public transport, Portland in Maine is one of the many amazing American cities to visit without a car. This East Coast haven has a wealth of different interests to pursue without needing wheels: from colonial architecture to modern art to maritime adventures.

For something different, the International Cryptozoology Museum is the place to discover more about the Sasquatch, one of the supernatural creatures said to live in the US, and its mysterious international cryptid friends.

Fly into the city, then take the Greater Portland Metro, the local Shuttle, or City bus services for longer hops around the neighborhoods and ferries between the islands in Casco Bay. Add a trip on the narrow gauge railway along the bay for some nostalgia.

• What to see and do: Old Port District, Portland Head Light and Fort Williams Park, Casco Bay Islands, International Cryptozoology Museum
• How to get around without a car: Metro, shuttles, ferries, walk, bike
• Best time to visit: July through October for mild weather, festivals, outdoor activities, and fewer crowds

13 Aspen, Colorado

Free shuttles, bike paths, compact layout

While getting into Aspen means a flight (no bus or train services), it’s perfect for music and art lovers in need of mountain inspiration. Besides its world-famous skiing on Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen (Apex) slopes, Aspen also hosts a variety of festivals and events for visitors planning to have some relaxing moments after a hike.

Within the town, gondolas and shuttles ensure no personal vehicles are needed. A wide range of accommodation (think camping to five-star) options options suit every budget.

• What to see and do: Hiking, biking, gondola riding, skiing
• How to get around without a car: Walk, bike, free shuttle bus service
• Best time to visit: December to February for skiing and snowboarding

12 Nantucket, Massachusetts

Compact size, walkable streets, and bike-friendly infrastructure

With various bus services, Amtrak trains, ferries, and flights all available, getting to Nantucket without a car is easier done than said. The local bus service is extensive, while bicycle-sharing and moped hire services are also available, but with miles and miles of beaches and walking trails, walking is also an excellent option for getting about. Cyclists also have it easy with dedicated paths throughout the island.

Try an ice-cream cruise, enjoy the quaint architectural sprawl of a bygone era, and visit the Museum of African American History for some little-known facts about the island.

• What to see and do: Museum of African American History, Whaling Museum, Brant Point Light Station
• How to get around without a car: Walk, bike, moped service, shuttle buses
• Best time to visit: May, June, September, and October for milder temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds

11 Miami Beach

Walkable neighborhoods, bike lanes, and excellent public transport options

Miami Beach is known for its bustling arts scene, and vacationers can have the best Wynwood Walls Miami Beach experience during their visit. From a walk along Ocean Drive with its iconic Art Deco architecture, or trendy Lincoln Road to its magnificent beaches, Miami Beach is a technicolor wonderland. It is also among the best cities to visit without a car, and a stay in or near Biscayne Bay is the easiest way to get the most out of a car-less vacation.

Stroll along Bayfront Park and shop at the Bayside Market, then take the Metrorail or bus to Wynwood Art District for the Selfie Museum and to catch street artists at work. Fly into Miami International Airport or Hollywood International Airport (further out of downtown) or cruise into Biscayne Bay on a scheduled liner.

• What to see and do: Bayfront Park, Bayside Market Place, Selfie Museum
• How to get around without a car: Walk, bike, buses, Metrorail, Metrobus, Metromover, Miami Beach Trolley
• Best time to visit: December to February is the ideal time for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches

10 Acadia National Park, Maine

Shuttle buses, biking, and walking paths

Exploring Acadia National Park is one of the best things to do in Bar Harbor, a pretty coastal town in Maine. Luckily, it’s also one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. to visit without a car. Fly into Bangor or Hancock County airports and take the Island Explorer or the Bangor Shuttle to this National Park island. The Explorer links Bar Harbor and the ferry terminal to most points of interest and can be flagged down at designated spots along the route.

Acadia National Park is on Mount Desert island and has a wealth of Atlantic history, as well as satisfying bio-diversity, including intertidal zones and wetlands for hikers to explore. Accommodation ranges from campgrounds to inns and lodges in Bar Harbor, North Mount Desert, and the Northeast and Southwest Harbors. There are also a number of incredible hikes in Acadia National Park, offering exploration and scenery on foot without needing a vehicle.

• What to see and do: Hiking, biking, stargazing, birding, camping, boating, tide-pooling, historic places
• How to get around without a car: Bike, walk, shuttle bus
• Best time to visit: October and November for ideal conditions for outdoor activities

9 Grand Rapids, Michigan

Walkable downtown, extensive public transit, bike-friendly paths

From breweries to sculpture parks to hiking to market browsing, Grand Rapids in Michigan has a lot of things to do within the city and nearby, as well as plenty of transportation options to choose from.

Take the Rapid transport system to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, or wander around the public museum with its planetarium. Discover a new brew in the Brewery Vivant or a new favorite ice-cream at The Pump House. Amtrak also goes through Grand Rapids for the ultimate green vacation.

8 New Orleans, Louisiana

Walkable French Quarter, bike-friendly paths, streetcar system

A stay in the French Quarter of this jazzy city means tram travel, a regular bus service, and good ol’ walking shoes are all that’s needed to have a great time. Venture down to the Spanish Plaza, then take the Riverside Streetcar along the Mississippi River.

Military enthusiasts will appreciate the Civil War and WWII Museums that lie close together, while the Canal Streetcar takes nature and art lovers to the City Park where the Sculpture Park and NOMA are located. Come nightfall, the city comes alive, with many of the best nightclubs, bars, and jazz clubs in New Orleans keeping the party going throughout the small hours.

• What to see and do: Confederate Museum, Spanish Plaza,City Park, NOMA
• How to get around without a car: Use Newark Light Rail, buses, bike, or walk
• Best time to visit: October, March, and April for comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds

7 Seattle, Washington

Extensive transit, walkable neighborhoods, bike-friendly

Getting to Seattle is easy, plus Amtrak has one of the most scenic routes into the city, no matter which direction one is traveling overland. In and around Seattle, ferries and cruising vessels allow exploration of Puget Sound and the Juan de Fuca Strait without a car.

Moreover, Seattle is known for having one of the most beautiful city parks in the US: Gas Works. If planning to explore the city’s other iconic attractions, there are a good number of options to consider, and most are walkable.

Stroll along the stunning beaches, with Mt. Rainer and the Olympic Mountains declaring their majesty, or around one of the many forests and gardens that make this the Emerald City. Then, chill with a coffee or an Agua Fresca and watch for whales, bald eagles, and playful otters.

The most popular destinations are within easy walking distance from each other, else visitors can use rideshares or public transportation to get around the city.

6 Seward, Alaska

Easy walking, compact layout, shuttle services

Seward is one of the best U.S. cities to visit without a car, as there are plenty of options for getting around without one’s own wheels. Get there by taking the ferry, a bus from Anchorage, or by the Alaska Railroad route.

Explore the neat town and surroundings by cycling on the paved trail or hiking along the beaches, mountains, and nearby woods. There’s fishing and boat tours to glaciers, and spectacular scenery for photography. Seward itself is also pleasantly walkable, and there is a free shuttle service that stops at the downtown, train depot, harbor, and cruise ship pier.

Visitors can also get to the Exit Glacier Nature Center in Kenai Fjords National Park via a fee-based shuttle. Accommodation varies, and this little slice of natural heaven gets quite busy in summer.

5 Whitefish, Montana

Compact walkable downtown, bike-friendly paths, public shuttles

Summer or winter, Whitefish has something unique and festive going on and, being fairly walkable with efficient public shuttles, it’s easily among the best places to visit without a car.

Surrounded by the stunning Glacier National Park mountains a few miles away, daily shuttles run year-round to the mountain resorts, and to the local attractions that include a brewery and a local beach by the lake. Perfect for skiing in winter and for hiking and day trips to the national park the rest of the year, Whitefish is a year-round destination – no car needed.

Take an Amtrak train from Seattle or Chicago to Whitefish for the ultimate car-less experience.

4 Bald Head Island, North Carolina

Bicycles, golf carts, and trams for transportation

There are many ways to access Bald Head Island in North Carolina without having to drive. Situated at the confluence of the Cape Fear River and the Atlantic Ocean, this scenic island is home to incredible golf courses, beaches, and a maritime forest that vacationers can explore using trams and golf carts.

Tourists can also stroll to its many attractions, including the old Baldy Lighthouse, the oldest standing lighthouse in the state, commissioned by the second U.S. President, Thomas Jefferson. One of the favorite things to do on Bald Head Island is to climb the 108 steps of the lighthouse to enjoy beautiful views of the island.

Sticking around for a little longer? Since it’s only 30 miles and 60 miles away from Wilmington and Myrtle Beach, respectively, Bald Head Island makes a perfect day trip from these Carolina cities.

3 Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Walkable historic district, comprehensive public transportation, guided tours

Recognized for its 18th-century charm, America’s Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the world and can be a perfect family getaway or a romantic trip.

Tourists who are into American history should definitely plan a trip to this historic town, which they can easily enjoy exploring by walking or riding horse-drawn carriages. In particular, the town’s tavern’s atmosphere offers an incredible feeling and takes people back right to the Revolutionary War period.

Williamsburg is one of the US cities to visit without a car due to its public transit and public bus transportation; the Greyhound bus service, taxi services, and even the Amtrak rail service let visitors get around the city. Other than that, the city is very walkable, so tourists may take in its sights on foot.

2 San Francisco, California

Walkable neighborhoods, robust public transit

There is never a shortage of transportation options in San Francisco. Some of the most walkable places in the city include the famous Fisherman’s Wharf, North Beach, and the downtown area.

The Underground BART System, Muni System, cable cars, street cars, bike share, and train enable everyone to easily get around without a personal vehicle. Ferries, taxis, and rideshares are all other options available for getting around the city. Guided tours are another fun option to explore some of the city’s most striking landmarks without having to drive around.

• What to see and do: Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Lands End
• How to get around without a car: Walk, bike, Muni, BART, Cable Car, Caltrain, ferries, rideshares
• Best time to visit: September to November when the weather is typically mild, and the summer crowds have subsided

1 Newark, New Jersey

Efficient public transport, walkable neighborhoods, bike infrastructure

Newark is incredibly walkable, especially in areas around University Heights, Newark Central Business District, and North Ironbound. Biking is another great option for transportation, and there is fantastic bike infrastructure to make it easier to get around.

Another option is relying on the city public transportation system, which is extensive and consists of buses, subways, and commuter trains. Buses cover all areas in the city and also go to some parts of the neighboring locations.