Today, I’m bringing you part 2 of the 10 American cities I really want to visit! If you missed part 1, go check it out, and then come back to see the 5 cities I’m talking about today. Like I mentioned last week, I’m approaching this in a “money is no object” kind of way (because that’s way more fun) in that no hotel, site, or restaurant is too expensive. A girl can dream, right?

6. Philadelphia, PA (image via visitphilly.com)

Where I Want to Stay: The Independent Hotel, which sits on what was once the site of Benjamin Franklin’s famous kite experiment. It seems like a cozy little hotel, with only 24 guest rooms, some of which feature exposed brick and fireplaces.

What I Want to See: I think it’d be so fun to visit the Eastern State Penitentiary, an architecturally stunning former prison that once housed Al Capone and was one of the most famous prisons in the US while in operation.

Where I Want to Eat: As a fan of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, I’d absolutely want to eat at Mac’s Tavern, which is partly owned by Rob McElhenney and Kaitlin Olson (aka Mac and Sweet Dee). What I’d Order: Chicken Cheesesteak.

7. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA (image via carmelcalifornia.org)

Where I Want to Stay: A mansion built in 1905, turned hotel called La Playa Carmel by the Sea. You can choose from ocean, patio, poolside, and village views, and they all look completely stunning.

What I Want to See: The San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission, which was built back in the 1770s, and is now home to 5 museums. It’s on the National Registry of Historic Places, and it still has its original bell tower dome.

Where I Want to Eat: Em Le’s, which is the second oldest restaurant in the city, and was voted best breakfast in town. What I’d Order: Their famous French Toast.

8. Scottsdale, AZ (image via experiencescottsdale.com)

Where I Want to Stay: The Saguaro, which has two heated and chilled pools and a Mexican restaurant on-site. Let’s be honest, the Mexican food is all the convincing I need to stay here.

What I Want to See: The Sonoran Desert via hot air balloon ride. I’ve seen the North Carolina mountains in a hot air balloon, and now I’m dying to see the Arizona desert the same way.

Where I Want to Eat: Citizen Public House, which is kind of an upscale gastropub. What I’d Order: Truffle Grilled Cheese.

9. Cape Cod, MA (image via massvacation.com)

Where I Want to Stay: The Platinum Pebble, which not only has the best name ever, but is also super close to the beach, and has the picture perfect “inn-look” that you’d expect from Cape Cod.

What I Want to See: One of the coolest animals ever, by going on a 3-4 hour whale watching tour. I have always wanted to go whale watching, so this would basically be a dream come true.

Where I Want to Eat: Parkside Market, where the menu is full of fresh foods that are often local and organic. What I’d Order: Breakfast Burrito.

10. Milwaukee, WI (image via travelwisconsin.com)
Where I Want to Stay: Brewhouse Suites, a brewery turned boutique hotel that has a very cool steampunk kind of vibe. Yet another place that used to be something else before being turned into hotel – I just think they’re the coolest!

What I Want to See: A cheese factory tour at the Clock Shadow Creamery, because cheese is one of the greatest things ever, of course.

Where I Want to Eat: Comet Cafe, which specializes in comfort food made from scratch, in a cozy little neighborhood eatery setting. What I’d Order: The Camilla.

That sums it up! Now I desperately want to start planning a vacation…

Have you been to any of the cities on this list? Any great American cities that I missed? Let’s talk travel!