These Cities Offer the Most Beautiful Commutes in the U.S.

Most people accept traffic and long waits as part of the daily grind. But in some U.S. cities, the ride to work feels more like a perk than a penalty. These cities turn the routine commute into something worth looking forward to, with views that deliver more than just moving scenery.

Clearwater, Florida

A drive across the Courtney Campbell Causeway delivers views of the Gulf, sometimes with dolphins in the distance and sailboats just offshore. It’s not unusual to start your day with palm trees swaying on both sides of the road.

Vancouver, Washington

This Pacific Northwest city manages to blend convenience with nature. Commutes average just 23 minutes, and the path often passes rivers, forested parks, and Mount Hood looming in the distance. The city is also near Portland, Oregon, but with far less congestion.

Santa Barbara, California

Drivers traveling through this coastal stretch get full views of the Pacific. Highway 101 threads through the city, where the road runs beside cliffs, beaches, and even passing surfers. It’s one of those rare drives that might tempt a detour, or at least a longer playlist.

Anchorage, Alaska

For anyone riding into downtown on the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, the daily commute includes forests, ocean, and—on clear days—volcanoes. The 11-mile trail stays close to the water and offers occasional moose sightings to keep things interesting.

Davis, California

This college town near Sacramento has more bicycles than cars during rush hour. Davis makes pedaling to work feel effortless with 100 miles of bike lanes and a flat landscape. The UC Davis Arboretum, with its shaded paths and native plants, sits right alongside campus.

Boulder, Colorado

Mornings in Boulder often begin with the Flatirons filling up the windshield. Runners and office-bound commuters get daily access to trails that lead straight out of town. Whether heading down Broadway or cruising past Chautauqua Park, the views feel built in.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco commuters who cross the Golden Gate Bridge don’t just face traffic—they get one of the best views in the country. From the span, the city skyline, Alcatraz, and the Marin Headlands line the horizon. Its bold international orange paint was picked so it wouldn’t disappear in the fog.

Portland, Oregon

Interstate 5 isn’t known for being fast. Still, it does provide an interesting view. Morning drivers crossing the Willamette River catch the sun rising over downtown bridges and forested hills. Mount Hood often makes a surprise appearance through the clouds.

Ocean City, Maryland

This coastal town surprised many by landing near the top of Sixt’s national scenic commute list. Route 528 runs straight up the peninsula with water in sight on both sides. Despite its tourist traffic in summer, many residents say the peaceful off-season mornings make it a great place to start the day.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis lets bikers and walkers glide past lakes and skyline views without fighting traffic. The Midtown Greenway, a 5.5-mile bike corridor, connects neighborhoods without ever meeting a stoplight. Commuting by bike doesn’t just make sense here—it’s often faster. When snow falls, city crews plow the bike paths first.

Chicago, Illinois

Crossing the Wells Street Bridge comes with perks beyond function. The steel drawbridge frames the downtown skyline and cuts across the Chicago River. For those who ride the L, the elevated trains offer a different perspective above streets and through buildings like an open-air museum.

Wilmington, Delaware

Wilmington advocates a walkable commute with Brandywine Creek running through the city. Its historic downtown and tree-lined roads create a route that feels like a mix of city and suburb. According to Sixt, its high park rating and manageable commute time have helped it to be on the national list.

Tucson, Arizona

Cyclists in Tucson often ride the Loop, a car-free network of trails that follow dry riverbeds and desert landscapes. Morning commuters pedal past saguaro cacti and the occasional roadrunner. With more than 130 miles of connected paths, the ride feels more like a guided desert tour than a workday routine.

Pleasant View, Utah

The daily route along US-89 places commuters at the edge of the Wasatch Range. Snow-covered peaks reflect morning light, and even short drives come with a steady supply of photo-worthy backdrops. Traffic rarely builds, which gives the scenery space to shine.

New York, New York

It’s easy to forget how scenic the city can be until your morning includes the Statue of Liberty. The Staten Island Ferry offers a quiet ride with full skyline views. Commute might also include the Hudson River Greenway or the Brooklyn Bridge—spots tourists pay to see every day.