Each year, Time Out's network of experts reveal their choices for the coolest neighborhoods in the world. What makes these neighborhoods cool? It’s not just about the buzziest restaurants, late-night haunts and culture hubs—it’s also about community spirit, diversity and that intangible “right now” energy. Seven U.S. neighborhoods earned a coveted spot this year.
These neighborhoods range from San Francisco’s Glen Park, where locals swap the city’s chaos for canyon hikes and indie bookshops, to Miami’s Little River, where an old auto shop can turn into the hottest restaurant overnight. There’s Red Hook in Brooklyn, still defined by cobblestone streets and a cult-favorite sandwich shop, but also by one of the country’s most exciting cultural centers. Neighborhoods in Austin, New Orleans, Atlanta and Chicago also made the list.
Taken together, these neighborhoods don’t just represent their cities—they reflect how America’s best urban areas are constantly reshaping themselves while keeping their soul intact. Here are the coolest neighborhoods in the U.S.
1. Glen Park, San Francisco
Wedged between better-known areas like Noe Valley and Bernal Heights, Glen Park is a leafy, village-like escape in San Francisco. The neighborhood’s heart is Glen Canyon Park, 66 acres of wild green space with coyotes, spring wildflowers and fog drifting up the streets like clockwork. Along Chenery Street, independent shops, Italian eats and the old-school Glen Park Station bar set the tone for the area’s low-key vibe. With historic charm, walkable streets and a roster of night markets and art pop-ups, Glen Park feels like the city’s quiet counterpoint to its tech-fueled chaos.
Time Out tip: Don't miss the Glen Park Night Market series with live music & DJs, artisan market and artmaking.
2. Clarksville, Austin
Once a sleepy residential enclave, Clarksville is quickly becoming one of Austin’s most exciting destinations. Its deep roots as a freed-slave community remain visible in historic landmarks, but the present is all about stylish boutiques, inventive dining and buzzy new bars like Howard’s. On West Lynn Street, you’ll find everything from custom surfboards to Hawaiian prints, while food lovers can graze from brunch at Josephine House to oysters at Clark’s to Asian-fusion plates at Bar Peached. It’s a neighborhood in the midst of change—balancing heritage with sleek architectural projects—and right now, it’s striking that balance beautifully.
Time Out tip: Visit in March to witness the thrill of both SXSW and bluebonnet blooms.
3. Avondale, Chicago
Logan Square might have priced out much of its artsy crowd, but Avondale—the “Bricktown” of Chicago—has picked up the creative torch. The neighborhood’s red-brick warehouses, Polish roots and Latino influences mix with a surge of indie bars, coffee shops and music venues. Along Milwaukee Avenue, vintage record shops, horror-themed cafés, and late-night sausage stands keep things playful, while tucked-away markets and dive bars preserve Avondale’s working-class grit. From $5 mandu at Joong Boo Market to late-night dancing at Podlasie Club, Avondale is a neighborhood that manages to feel both scrappy and sophisticated in true Chicago fashion.
Time Out tip: The neighborhood offers plenty of cozy spots to take refuge in the winter but check it out in the summer when al fresco dining takes over and outdoor activities beckon.
4. Red Hook, Brooklyn
Tucked on the waterfront at the far edge of Brooklyn, Red Hook is worth the trek—whether by bus, bike or even the free IKEA ferry. Industrial warehouses now house art galleries, distilleries, and cultural anchors like Pioneer Works, where free monthly open houses draw the creative crowd. The cobblestone streets remain dotted with old-school favorites like Defonte’s sandwiches and Sunny’s bar, while newer restaurants like Hometown Bar-B-Que pull long lines. Add in indie shops, craft breweries and stunning skyline views from Valentino Pier, and you’ve got a neighborhood that embodies the magic of Brooklyn’s past and present colliding.
Time Out tip: Head over to Pioneer Works on the second Sunday of each month for a free open house to explore exhibits, meet artists-in-residence and enjoy live music.
5. Little River, Miami
Miami’s Little River is holding onto the top spot as the city’s coolest neighborhood, and for good reason. Sandwiched between Wynwood’s street art and the Design District’s gloss, this area is raw, scrappy and buzzing with creative energy. Old mechanic shops are now Michelin-star restaurants, punk gyms, and vintage-filled cafés. On weekends, locals crowd ZeyZey for live music, Adrian’s for burrito pop-ups and Bar Bucce for some of the city’s most inventive pizza. By night, all roads lead to Sunny’s—the hottest table in Miami.
Time Out tip: Art Basel and Miami Art Week shine a light on the neighborhood's growing gallery scene.
6. Mid-City, New Orleans
Mid-City may be best known for Jazz Fest, but this is a neighborhood with year-round soul. Bordered by Bayou St. John and City Park’s sprawling oaks, it’s a mix of historic Creole houses, independent businesses and multigenerational institutions like Parkway Bakery & Tavern (still slinging po’boys after more than a century). You’ll find vibrant nightlife, sno-ball stands and cozy restaurants plus activities ranging from kayaking to neighborhood festivals. With its streetcar access and lived-in feel, Mid-City represents New Orleans at its most authentic—resilient, diverse and unpretentious.
Time Out tip: In one small area you can explore the New Orleans Museum of Art, walk around the Big Lake and enjoy beignets under the oaks at Cafe du Monde.
7. Old Fourth Ward, Atlanta
Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward—O4W to locals—has history in its DNA. It’s where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. grew up, and its Civil Rights landmarks remain powerful anchors. But the neighborhood has also reinvented itself as a cultural and culinary hub. At its center is Ponce City Market, a former Sears factory turned into a massive food hall, retail space and rooftop playground. The BeltLine Eastside Trail runs right through, connecting breweries, murals and gathering spaces, while Edgewood Avenue delivers nightlife quirkiness with bars like Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium. Equal parts historic and forward-looking, O4W is Atlanta energy distilled.
Time Out tip: Check the BeltLine calendar for yoga classes, tours, performances and more.