Not every American city rolls out the red carpet for visitors. While some destinations boast charm and hospitality, others… not so much. Based on travel reviews, social media rants, and survey data, these 19 cities have earned a reputation for being especially cold, curt, or downright hostile to outsiders. Whether it’s the rushed locals, the eye-rolls at tourist questions, or that unshakable “you’re not from around here” vibe, these spots aren’t winning any friendliness contests. Tip: If you do go, pack some thick skin—and maybe a smile to break the ice.
1. Los Angeles, California
LA’s chill exterior can hide a frosty reception for out-of-towners. Locals are busy chasing dreams—or sitting in traffic—and rarely have time for tourist questions about the Hollywood sign. The city, sprawling yet magnetic, draws people in with promises of sunshine and stardom. But be warned, the pace of life here can be as unpredictable as the plot of a Hollywood movie.
In Los Angeles, everyone seems to be in their own universe, fueled by ambition and caffeine. This creates a culture where small talk is rare and eye contact is often avoided. Visitors sometimes find this unsettling, but remember, beneath the glossy veneer is a city full of contradictions waiting to be explored.
Did you know? The Griffith Observatory offers a breathtaking view of the city and the stars, a perfect retreat from the hustle.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is historic, proud… and blunt. Visitors have often cited sarcasm, side-eyes, and an air of superiority. Mispronounce “Worcester” at your own peril. The city’s charm lies in its straightforwardness, where small talk is replaced by candid conversations, often accompanied by a strong cup of coffee.
In Boston, the cobblestone streets whisper tales of revolution, and the locals proudly embody this rebellious spirit. The friendly banter is more like a verbal joust, sharp yet intellectually stimulating. It’s a place where history meets modernity, and the past is as alive as the present.
Quirky Fact: The Boston University Bridge is one of the only places in the world where a boat can sail under a train driving under a car driving under an airplane.
3. Detroit, Michigan
While Detroit has seen a lot of revitalization, some visitors still report feeling unwelcome or uneasy, especially in areas that haven’t bounced back yet. Locals tend to keep to themselves. The city stands as a testament to resilience, with its art deco skyscrapers and industrial might.
Detroit carries a unique charm in its juxtaposition of decay and rebirth. The Motown beat still echoes through its streets, and for those who take the time to listen, there’s a story in every corner. Historic neighborhoods and converted spaces tell tales of a promising future amidst a rocky past.
Fun Tidbit: Detroit is home to the world’s largest tire. Originally a Ferris wheel at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, it now sits proudly as a Motor City landmark.
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The City of Brotherly Love comes with an asterisk. Philly natives are known for their loyalty—to their city and sports teams. Outsiders? Not so much. Just ask anyone who’s worn a Giants jersey to an Eagles game. Philadelphia’s streets are a battleground of passion, where every corner has a story to tell.
Engage with a local about the Phillies or the Eagles, and you’ll experience unfiltered zeal that borders on ferocity. This city wears its heart on its sleeve, and sometimes that means a little extra bark with its bite. Unabashedly authentic, Philly invites you to embrace its intensity and become part of the narrative.
Did You Know? The world-famous Philly cheesesteak was invented in the city in the 1930s, and it’s still a staple today.
5. San Francisco, California
Once a tourist darling, SF now gets flak for being cold in more ways than one. Rising homelessness, gentrification tension, and skyrocketing prices have made the vibe less than welcoming in recent years. Yet, the city’s foggy allure still captivates many, who find beauty in its steep hills and vibrant neighborhoods.
San Francisco embodies a complex narrative of innovation and inequality, where the echoes of the Gold Rush meet the tech boom’s digital hum. Visitors often find themselves torn between admiration and apprehension. Take a ride on the historic cable cars and let the city’s quirks unfold before you.
Fun Fact: The famous Lombard Street, known as the crookedest street in the world, is a must-see with its eight hairpin turns.
6. Washington, D.C.
In the land of politics and power suits, don’t expect warm-and-fuzzy hospitality. D.C. is high-pressure, and tourists often feel like they’re in the way of the real action. The city is a maze of monuments and memorials, where history is carved in stone, yet the air is thick with modern ambitions.
Washington, D.C. is a realm where every handshake is calculated, and every smile has a story. Navigating through its avenues is a lesson in diplomacy, where patience is key, and awareness is essential. While it may seem daunting, the city offers a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered.
Interesting Fact: The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex, offers free admission to its museums and galleries.
7. Miami, Florida
Miami is hot, flashy, and famously aloof. Tourists say it’s easy to feel out of place—especially if you’re not dressed to impress or fluent in Spanish. The city pulses with a Latin rhythm, where glamour and grit dance in a delicate balance.
From the pastel-hued Art Deco buildings to the vibrant sounds of salsa, Miami is a kaleidoscope of cultures and contrasts. This coastal city demands more than admiration; it invites participation. Here, the sun kisses the shores, and the nightlife never sleeps.
Did You Know? Miami is the only major U.S. city founded by a woman, entrepreneur Julia Tuttle, known as the “Mother of Miami.”
8. Chicago, Illinois
Chicagoans are friendly… to each other. But the Windy City has earned mixed reviews from tourists who’ve encountered icy cab drivers and impatient servers. Known for its deep-dish pizza and towering architecture, Chicago is a city of bold flavors and strong personalities.
The city’s pulse beats to the rhythm of the El train, weaving stories of its vibrant neighborhoods into a colorful tapestry. Visitors might find themselves caught in the brisk Chicago wind, yet warmed by the stories of resilience etched into its streets. A city of contrasts, where warmth can be as elusive as the sun in winter.
Fun Fact: The Twinkie was invented in Chicago during the Great Depression, a sweet legacy that continues to delight.
9. Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore has a gritty reputation, and while it’s got heart, many visitors say it’s not exactly warm to newcomers—especially those who wander too far from the Inner Harbor. Known for its crabs and the Orioles, this city resonates with a unique cultural rhythm.
The cobblestone streets echo with stories of nautical adventures and industrial achievements. Baltimore thrives on its unpretentious character, offering a mix of art, history, and seafood delights. For those willing to look beyond the surface, the city reveals a community rich in diversity and spirit.
Did You Know? Edgar Allan Poe spent his last days in Baltimore, and the city honors him with a festival held every October.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
Vegas is all glitz—but that hospitality can feel transactional. Locals are used to tourists and may not go out of their way to help. If you’re not tipping, you’re invisible. The desert oasis dazzles with its shimmering lights and promises of fortune.
Beneath the surface, Las Vegas is a city of contradictions, where extravagance meets stark desert landscapes. Visitors often find themselves caught in the whirlwind of entertainment, where every interaction might come with a catch. Yet, the allure of Vegas is undeniable.
Fun Fact: The beam atop the Luxor Hotel is the strongest beam of light in the world, visible to pilots flying over Los Angeles, 275 miles away.
11. Newark, New Jersey
Often used as a pass-through city to NYC, Newark rarely charms. Tourists report a lack of helpfulness and an unshakable “don’t bother me” vibe. The city’s identity is deeply rooted in its industrial past, serving as a vital transportation hub.
As planes soar above and trains rumble beneath, Newark stands as a gateway, yet seldom a destination. For those who choose to linger, the city offers hidden gems and a gritty authenticity. Visitors seeking the heart of Newark must look beyond its utilitarian facade.
Did You Know? Newark Liberty International Airport is one of the oldest airfields in the United States, having opened in 1928.
12. Seattle, Washington
Enter the “Seattle Freeze.” Locals are polite—but distant. Tourists (and even transplants) often describe the city’s social climate as cold and cliquey. Yet, beneath the misty skies, Seattle thrives on innovation and coffee culture.
In this city of tech giants and indie music, the hum of creativity resonates through its rain-soaked streets. Visitors might feel the chill, but they’re also likely to discover a community rich in uniqueness and originality. A city where the green landscapes and gray skies form a captivating backdrop.
Quirky Fact: Seattle has the highest percentage of residents with a college degree of any major U.S. city, a testament to its intellectual spirit.
13. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta’s southern charm can be hit or miss. Depending on the neighborhood, visitors say they either feel ignored—or outright judged. The city is a mosaic of modernity and tradition, where southern hospitality meets urban hustle.
Atlanta’s vibrant culture is a fusion of art, history, and innovation, creating a tapestry rich in diversity. Tourists may find the social dynamics complex, but those who embrace the contrasts often find a city full of life and stories. A place where the past and present blend seamlessly.
Did You Know? Atlanta was originally named Terminus for its railroads, becoming a crucial transportation hub in the 19th century.
14. St. Louis, Missouri
With rising crime rates and a stark divide between downtown and suburbs, some tourists feel unwelcome or unsafe exploring too far off the beaten path. St. Louis stands as a city of contrasts, where the mighty Mississippi River carves through its heart.
This gateway to the west is a land of rich history and baseball legends. The city’s vibrant cultural scene offers jazz, blues, and a culinary adventure. For those who venture beyond the well-trodden paths, St. Louis reveals its eclectic charm.
Fun Fact: The St. Louis Arch is the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere, standing at 630 feet.
15. Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City’s strong religious and cultural identity makes it unique—but it can also make outsiders feel like… outsiders. Tourists sometimes describe the vibe as “cloistered.” The city’s landscape is a stunning blend of mountains and urban life, offering a unique backdrop.
Salt Lake City is a place where nature and spirituality coexist harmoniously. Visitors may feel the weight of its cultural heritage, yet find solace in its serene surroundings. Those who explore with an open mind often discover the city’s hidden warmth and welcoming spirit.
Did You Know? The Great Salt Lake is actually saltier than the ocean, a natural wonder that adds to the city’s allure.
16. Anchorage, Alaska
It’s not that Alaskans are unfriendly—they’re just independent. In Anchorage, don’t expect small talk or warm welcomes. Nature is the main attraction. The city is a gateway to vast wilderness, where the Northern Lights dance across the sky.
Anchorage offers a rugged charm, where wildlife often mingles with urban life. For those who appreciate the call of the wild, this city provides an unparalleled adventure. Visitors willing to embrace the solitude find a place brimming with natural wonders and pioneering spirit.
Fun Tidbit: Anchorage is one of the only cities where you can find moose wandering the streets, adding to its unique character.
17. Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland gets a bad rap, and while locals love their city, tourists say it can be tough to crack the surface. Especially during a losing Browns season. The city, with its rich history and industrial backbone, offers a blend of grit and culture.
Cleveland’s charm lies in its resilience, where world-class museums stand alongside historic factories. Visitors may encounter a little chill in the air, but those who dig deeper find a community proud of its roots and innovations. A city that defies expectations and invites exploration.
Fun Fact: Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, celebrating the city’s influential musical heritage.
18. Honolulu, Hawaii
Yes, even paradise can be prickly. Some locals are tired of overtourism and skyrocketing prices—and they’re not shy about showing their frustration to visitors. Honolulu is a tropical haven, where the spirit of aloha still whispers in the breeze.
The city’s stunning beaches and vibrant culture attract millions, yet beneath the paradise facade, there’s a community grappling with change. Visitors may encounter a mix of warm welcomes and guarded glances. For those who respect the land and its people, Honolulu offers a rich tapestry of experiences.
Did You Know? Hawaii’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a, is as unique as the islands themselves.
19. New York City, New York
The Big Apple is infamous for its fast-paced, no-nonsense attitude. Locals aren’t rude, they’re just in a hurry—but to tourists, that can come across as unfriendly. Just don’t block the sidewalk and you might make it out unscathed. New York’s reputation isn’t entirely unfounded, but remember, this is a city that never sleeps. With millions of people bustling about, it’s like a constantly ticking clock, and time is money.
The iconic yellow cabs, the towering skyscrapers, and the throng of people are what make New York, well, New York. The stark reality is that New Yorkers are often just preoccupied with their own worlds. For tourists, this means keeping pace. Have a plan, stick to it, and you might even find yourself enjoying the whirlwind that is NYC.
Fun Fact: Did you know New Yorkers go through approximately 4 million bagels each day? That’s a lot of breakfast on the go!
