15 US Cities and Towns Boasting the Highest Air Quality
There are thousands of cities in the United States, many of which are very polluted. However, there are plenty of ‘clean’ urban areas in the country too, where you can enjoy some fresh air. Here are 15 of the cleanest cities and towns in the United States, ranging from Alaska to Hawaii according to IQAir.com.
Homer, Alaska
Homer is a charming city nestled along Kachemak Bay. Famous for its beautiful location, wildlife-watching opportunities, and artsy downtown, it has something for everyone. Popular activities include walking along the Homer Spit, fishing for halibut, and visiting the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.
Waimea, Hawaii
There are three different Waimea’s in Hawaii, but this one is located on the island of Kauai. This charming town is found along the coast, near Waimea Canyon. Popular attractions include the Captain James Cook Statue, the West Kauai Tech & Visitors Center, and the Waimea Landing State Recreation Pier.
Hilo, Hawaii
You’ll find Hilo on Hawai’s ‘Big Island’. This town is famous for its natural beauty and is a popular stop-off point before Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. There are plenty of attractions to visit in Hilo, including Richardson Ocean Park, Liliʻuokalani Gardens, and Wailoa River State Recreation Area.
Albany, New York State
Contrary to popular belief, the city of Albany is the capital of New York State, rather than New York itself. Boasting various historic sites and museums, this city offers the perfect getaway for history lovers. Highlights include the New York State Museum, the New York State Capitol, and Washington Park.
Beatty, Nevada
Beatty acts as the ‘Gateway to Death Valley’, with the national park attracting over 1 million visitors every year. With various amenities including accommodation, shops, and restaurants, it makes a great base. Other places to visit include the Goldwell Open Air Museum and the nearby ghost town of Rhyolite.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Steamboat Springs is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, making it a popular ski resort. This charming mountain town also offers various amenities and geothermal hot springs. Attractions include Fish Creek Falls, Yampa River Botanic Park, and The Tread of Pioneers Museum. Not to mention, the scenery will take your breath away!
Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a charming mountain town located within the Rocky Mountains. It boasts four different ski resorts and offers many outdoor activities, perfect for those wanting to get outdoors. The John Denver Sanctuary, Aspen Art Museum, and Maroon Bells are popular places to visit.
Haines, Alaska
Haines and its surrounding area are dubbed the ‘Valley of the Eagles’. Just a 25-minute drive away, you’ll find Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve, which boasts the world’s largest gathering of bald eagles. During every October and November, 3,000-4,000 bald eagles come to this preserve. In November, Haines also hosts the annual Alaska Bald Eagle Festival.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico and offers some fantastic attractions, including Meow Wolf Santa Fe, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, and the Santa Fe Farmer’s Market. It’s also one of the most unique cities in the United States thanks to its various architectural styles.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Beaver Creek is another of Colorado’s popular mountain villages. Not only is it a premier skiing destination, but there are some fantastic hiking trails in the surrounding area. Beaver Creek also hosts the iconic Blues, Brews, & BBQ Festival and Oktoberfest so there are great events on throughout the year.
Sierra Vista, Arizona
Sierra Vista offers some of the best bird-watching in the world as it’s nicknamed the ‘Hummingbird Capital of the United States’. There are also some fantastic attractions in and around the city, such as Kartchner Caverns State Park, Coronado National Memorial, and the Fort Huachuca Museum.
Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage is one of the most-visited places in Alaska. It’s a great base for exploring the nearby glaciers and outdoor areas, but there are also plenty of things to do in the city. Highlights include the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum, and Earthquake Park.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kailua-Kona is located on the Big Island’s west coast. This lively town is a popular base for exploring the island, especially as there’s so much to do nearby. Popular attractions include Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, Magic Sands Beach Park, Kona Farmer’s Market, and Kailua Pier.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Glenwood Springs is a popular resort town, famous for its hot springs. It’s located along the state’s Historic Hot Springs Loop, within the Rocky Mountains so boasts breathtaking scenery. Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is also located here, where you can take a ride on an alpine coaster.
Valdez, Alaska
Valdez is nestled on the shores of Prince William Sound so is a fantastic wildlife-watching destination. Here, you can head out on boat trips to spot various species, including orcas, whales, and bald eagles. Visiting the Solomon Gulch Hatchery and Maxine & Jesse Whitney Museum are other great things to do.
Source: IQAir.com.
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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.