This Is the No. 1 'Feel-good' Destination in the U.S.a"and It Has Gorgeous Beaches and Endless Sunshine

Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, August 4th 2025 at 13:12 GMT by Travel + Leisure
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A new study ranks Los Angeles as the best U.S. city to enjoy the season and for good reason.

Los Angeles Named the Feel-Good City in America

In a surprising yet fitting accolade, Los Angeles has been crowned the ultimate "Feel-Good City" in America, according to a comprehensive new study that evaluates urban destinations based on their ability to uplift spirits, promote wellness, and foster joy. This ranking isn't just about sunny skies and celebrity sightings—it's rooted in a holistic assessment of factors that contribute to emotional and physical well-being. From its diverse cultural tapestry to its abundance of outdoor activities and innovative wellness scenes, LA stands out as a metropolis where residents and visitors alike can recharge, relax, and rediscover happiness. As cities across the nation grapple with post-pandemic recovery and the stresses of modern life, this designation highlights how LA's unique blend of natural beauty, entertainment, and community spirit makes it a beacon for feel-good vibes.

The study, which analyzed data from various sources including resident surveys, health metrics, and tourism trends, placed Los Angeles at the top of a list of major U.S. cities. Researchers considered elements such as access to green spaces, quality of air, availability of mental health resources, cultural events, and even the prevalence of laughter-inducing activities like comedy shows and festivals. What sets LA apart is its multifaceted approach to well-being. Unlike more fast-paced cities like New York, which might score high on energy but lower on relaxation, or serene spots like Portland that emphasize nature but lack diversity in entertainment, LA offers a balanced ecosystem. It's a place where you can hike in the morning, meditate at a beachside yoga session in the afternoon, and catch a live music performance under the stars by night—all while surrounded by a melting pot of cultures that encourages inclusivity and positive social interactions.

One of the primary reasons LA earned this title is its unparalleled weather and outdoor lifestyle. With an average of 284 sunny days per year, the city provides ample opportunities for vitamin D-fueled activities that naturally boost mood. Think of the iconic beaches stretching from Malibu to Santa Monica, where the sound of crashing waves and the sight of surfers gliding across the ocean create an instant sense of calm. Venice Beach, in particular, embodies the feel-good ethos with its eclectic boardwalk lined with street performers, artists, and vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to fresh acai bowls. Here, people-watching becomes a form of therapy, reminding visitors of the joy in human diversity and creativity. Beyond the coast, the city's extensive network of hiking trails in places like Griffith Park or the Santa Monica Mountains offers escapes into nature that are scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety. A trek up to the Hollywood Sign, for instance, not only provides breathtaking views of the sprawling cityscape but also instills a sense of accomplishment and wonder.

Wellness culture thrives in Los Angeles like nowhere else, contributing significantly to its feel-good status. The city is a hub for innovative health practices, from cutting-edge spas to holistic retreats. Areas like Silver Lake and West Hollywood are dotted with boutique fitness studios offering everything from aerial yoga to sound bath meditations, where participants lie immersed in the vibrations of crystal bowls and gongs for deep relaxation. Juice bars and organic cafes abound, promoting clean eating that aligns with the body's natural rhythms. Celebrity-endorsed spots like the Remedy Place or Moon Juice have popularized biohacking techniques, such as infrared saunas and adaptogenic elixirs, making wellness accessible and trendy. This isn't just for the elite; community centers and public parks host free wellness events, ensuring that feel-good experiences are inclusive. The study's data showed that LA residents report higher levels of life satisfaction tied to these resources, with many citing the city's emphasis on self-care as a key factor in combating urban burnout.

Entertainment plays a pivotal role in LA's feel-good appeal, turning the city into a playground for the soul. As the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for laughter, inspiration, and escapism. The comedy scene is legendary, with venues like The Comedy Store and Laugh Factory hosting nightly shows that draw crowds seeking endorphin rushes through humor. Film buffs can immerse themselves in the magic of Hollywood, touring studios or attending outdoor movie screenings at places like the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where classic films are projected against a backdrop of palm trees and starlit skies. Music festivals such as Coachella (just a short drive away) or local events in Downtown LA amplify the communal joy, bringing people together in celebration. Even everyday experiences, like strolling through the vibrant murals of the Arts District or catching a sunset concert at the Greek Theatre, foster a sense of connection and euphoria. These activities aren't mere distractions; they tap into the human need for storytelling and shared experiences, which psychologists link to improved mental health and resilience.

Diversity and community are the unsung heroes of LA's feel-good narrative. The city's population is a vibrant mosaic of ethnicities, with neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Boyle Heights offering culinary adventures that delight the senses and broaden perspectives. Food, in particular, serves as a universal language of comfort here—whether it's savoring street tacos from a food truck in East LA or indulging in fusion cuisine at a trendy spot in Culver City. This cultural richness promotes empathy and belonging, reducing feelings of isolation that plague many urban dwellers. Community initiatives, such as volunteer-driven beach cleanups or neighborhood block parties, further enhance the social fabric, creating bonds that uplift entire communities. The study noted that LA's inclusive atmosphere correlates with lower rates of reported loneliness, as people from all walks of life find spaces to connect and thrive.

Of course, no city is without its challenges, and LA's feel-good status doesn't ignore issues like traffic congestion or high living costs. However, the ranking emphasizes how the city mitigates these through adaptive solutions, such as expanding public transit and promoting car-free days in areas like CicLAvia, where streets transform into pedestrian paradises for biking and strolling. Urban planning efforts are increasingly focused on green initiatives, like the revitalization of the LA River into a recreational corridor, which promises even more feel-good spaces in the future.

For travelers seeking a destination that rejuvenates rather than exhausts, Los Angeles emerges as an ideal choice. Whether you're a solo adventurer meditating at dawn on Malibu's shores, a family exploring the interactive exhibits at the Getty Center, or a group of friends laughing through a improv class in Hollywood, the city delivers experiences tailored to spark joy. This recognition as America's Feel-Good City isn't just a badge of honor—it's an invitation to experience the transformative power of LA's sunshine, spirit, and endless possibilities. As one local put it, "In LA, feeling good isn't something you chase; it's something that finds you." With its winning combination of natural wonders, wellness innovations, entertainment extravaganzas, and community warmth, Los Angeles proves that in the pursuit of happiness, sometimes all you need is a little West Coast magic.

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This Is the No. 1 'Feel-good' Destination in the U.S.a"and It Has Gorgeous Beaches and Endless Sunshine

Los Angeles Named the Feel-Good City in America