Whether to visit, or to take up residence, you’re looking for a city that represents what it means to be American – a place that eats, sleeps, and breathes red, white, and blue. Well, we’ve got exactly what you’re looking for right here. We scoured the web to find the most patriotic cities in the U.S., according to experts, and we’ve compiled them here in a list for you. But if we’re going to talk about patriotism, then we must discuss some of what makes up the American dream: watching sports and shopping.

The question is, do professional sports promote patriotism beyond kicking things off with a rendition of the national anthem? Most Americans say no. According to new research out of Ohio State University, less than half of surveyed U.S. adults (47%) agree with the notion that pro sports promote patriotism. Additional findings are that 34 percent believe pro sports teaches respect for the military. Moreover, just a third agree that pro sports can guide people on how to ‘be American.’” The lead study author says that patriotic imagery and messages are all too common in sports now, so much so that they go unnoticed. Based on the results of the study, researchers say that “it seems that most Americans do not recognize sport as a social institution that promotes nationalism – although there is good evidence that it does.” They recognize that further research is needed.

Many Americans love a day of shopping, but it turns out that faith in the American dream can actually lead to less impulsive shopping. The study out of the University at Buffalo and Johns Hopkins University, was published in the Journal of Marketing Research. A co-author of the study says, “When materialistic people believe they have the power to change their financial circumstances, they’re more likely to save money and focus on long-term success, rather than the short-term pleasure of having the latest technology or products.” To conduct this study, researchers split up a mix of college students and adult consumers into two groups. One group was shown news stories promoting economic mobility while the other was shown the opposite. They ran this study four times total. Researchers found that if people believed that they couldn’t change their economic status, they had less control over impulse spending.

Sports and shopping aside, let’s get to the cities that show their love for America the most. Below is our list of the most patriotic cities in the U.S., according to experts. Of course, we want to hear from you. Comment below to let us know which U.S. city you think ranks highest in patriotism!

The List: Most Patriotic Cities in the U.S., Per Experts

1. Gallup, NM

“For Gallup, New Mexico, patriotism runs deep. Generations of Gallup’s citizens have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, in WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, as well as the Gulf Wars and in Afghanistan. Some of these veterans have been made famous by movies like The Code Talkers or books like Forged in Fire, written by Gallup’s Medal of Honor recipient – Hershey Miyamura. While these stories have captured national interest and international acclaim, all of Gallup’s veterans are respected and revered for the sacrifices they have made for our country,” writes Greater Gallup.

Gallup has more than one thing going for it in the way of patriotism, according to Homes.com. “Gallup is rooted in American culture — not only is it coined the ‘Most Patriotic Small Town in America,’ but it’s also known as ‘The Heart of Indian Country.’ Gallup neighbors the Navajo Nation, and many other tribes additionally called the area home. The Native American culture runs deep in Gallup, the city honors Navajo service members in its World War II Memorial. Members of the Navajo Nation were recruited by the Marines during World War II, and the unique language spoken by those that were enlisted by the Armed Forces as secret communication through military telephone and radio. These servicemen are affectionately known as the Navajo Code-Talkers or simply Code-Talkers.”

Gallup has embraced this reputation, as clearly seen when you drive into town. Expedia writes, “Gallup is no stranger to being labelled patriotic, and it’s a reputation they wear with pride. The welcome sign on your way into town reads, ‘Most Patriotic Small Town in America.’ The label runs deep into history here, where descendants of the country’s first inhabitants celebrate the oldest native traditions and cultural practices at the Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial. The Gallup Cultural Center is another gathering place that explores the diversity and historical significance of the town. Don’t miss a stop at the Veterans Memorial, which pays tribute to veterans of war and the World War II Navajo code talkers.”

2. Philadelphia, PA

This one just makes sense being that a couple of rather large historical documents were signed here. The Wander Club shares more: “Much like Boston, patriotism is synonymous with Philadelphia. Many would argue that the City of Brotherly Love is even more patriotic, in fact. After all, the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed here. To experience the all-American aspects of Philly for yourself, start with a visit to the Liberty Bell and a tour of Independence Hall — right across from one another inside Independence National Historical Park and both completely free (though you do need a timed reservation at Independence Hall). The Museum of the American Revolution is a worthy stop here, also. If you can time your visit to coincide with 4th of July, it’ll be easy to see just why Philadelphia is one of the most patriotic towns in America. The whole city comes alive, but the highlight is the live reading of the Declaration of Independence at Independence Hall.”

Cheapism says that if you’re visiting Philly, stopping at Independence National Historical Park is a must: “Not only is this famous Philadelphia site home to the iconic Liberty Bell (which was named by abolitionists fighting slavery), it is also home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and ratified in the late 1700s. Doesn’t get much more patriotic than that.”

“Few places can claim as much American history cred as the City of Brotherly Love. The city is packed with significant artifacts and locations. Come the Fourth of July, Independence Hall, one of the most important and historic places in the U.S. hosts a live reading of the Declaration of Independence. During the same time, the Wawa Welcome America festival is a 6-day blowout that culminates in a gigantic finale concert with post-show fireworks. Throughout the year, the Museum of the American Revolution keeps alive memories of the hard-won independence that make Americans so proud. Another example of patriotism is the pride in people that shines at the African American Museum, where heritage and culture find a celebratory voice. When you love someone you give them time and devotion, so why should it be different with your country and community? Citizens give back during the Martin Luther King Day of Service in a city that was also named a Bright Spot in Community Engagement by the National League of Cities,” writes Expedia.

3. Boston, MA

One of Boston’s nicknames pretty much says it all. Coleman Concierge writes, “Boston is known as the `Birthplace of American Liberty, and the Freedom Trail is the place to go to get the full story. You can see the site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, and Paul Revere’s House as well as the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill, where the American Revolution began.”

“With significant ties to the United States‘ earliest history, it should come as no surprise that Boston is one of the country’s most patriotic towns. People travel to Boston from all over the world, hoping to get just a taste of American history. Visit the Boston Tea Party ships, follow the 2.5-mile path of the Freedom Trail, or head to the nearby Plymouth Plantation, where pilgrims settled the very first colony in 1620. Boston (all of Massachusetts, technically) even has an official Patriots Day holiday, commemorating the important Battle of Lexington and Concord,” adds The Wander Club.

According to Expedia, “Given the significance of Boston in the formative years of this country, the city couldn’t distance itself from patriotic vibes if it tried. It’s a major travel hub for visitors looking to learn about the nation’s history and marvel at the spots where Paul Revere rode and Louisa May Alcott wrote. Take to the Freedom Trail to catch important sites of the American Revolution, or the Boston Women’s Heritage Trail to pay homage to some great American heroes. In fact, there are so many historical things to do in Boston, you could live there and not catch them all. If you’re looking to celebrate with your fellow Americans, the Boston Pops 4th of July show is arguably the best place to celebrate Fourth of July, and is a never-forget spectacle of music, lights, and revelry that will have you partying till the dawn’s early light.”

4. Bristol, RI

It may be in the smallest state, but this town is big on patriotism, according to The Wander Club. “Much of Rhode Island, Bristol included, pre-dates the Revolutionary War — by an entire century. You could say that American pride runs deep here, in the smallest U.S. state. Picturesque, quiet Bristol transforms in mid-June, in anticipation of the 4th of July. This small town is home to the longest-running Independence Day celebration in the country, called the Military, Civic, and Firemen’s Parade. The show has gone on, so to speak, continuously since 1785. The celebration consistently draws well over 200,000 people to Bristol, a town with just over 22,000 residents. You’re unlikely to find a business that isn’t decked out in red, white, and blue, cementing Bristol’s status as one of the most patriotic towns in America.”

“Only one city can claim the title of home to the oldest Fourth of July celebration, and Bristol is that city. The event has been evolving since 1785, and is a source of pride involving dignitaries, concert series, parades, contests, pageants, and a formal ball. Boating and park-going are common activities in town, which suits the outdoorsy nature of the holiday just fine. Start your day at the 2.5-mile parade, sneak in some time on the water mid-afternoon, and wrap up your celebrations at the fireworks show and concert at the aptly named Independence Park. Or, come to town early and extend your stay, because Bristol decided America deserves a whole birthday month–celebrations start on Flag Day, June 14,” says Expedia.

Only In Your State mentions: “Bristol is a lovely waterfront town located close to the Massachusetts border. Almost, but not quite surrounded by water, this quaint town is loaded with natural beauty and New England charm. This Rhode Island town has been dubbed the most patriotic due to its long-running Fourth of July festivities. The celebratory activities actually start on Flag Day in mid-June and continue on through the 4th. The residents of this town come out in droves to celebrate their patriotism. From concerts in the park to balls and parades, there are many events to celebrate in Bristol. The Military, Civic, and Firemen’s Parade is the longest running 4th of July parade in the Nation. This patriotic town began celebrating its independence in 1785 and hasn’t stopped since. This long-standing parade draws over 200,000 spectators from all over New England and around the world. The red, white, and blue lines that mark the parade route are repainted each year down the middle of the town’s streets.”

5. St. Louis, MO

St. Louis likes a good party, according to Business Insider. “St. Louis bills its annual Fourth of July fair as ‘America’s Biggest Birthday Party,’ and that’s no exaggeration. Forest Park, the grounds that once hosted the 1905 World Fair, will host a music festival; fireworks displays; and air shows over the course of three days.”

And let’s not forget the symbolism that stands erected in St. Louis. Coleman Concierge writes, “America is just a nation of immigrants and patriots. It’s a land of pioneers and dreamers. Go west young man wasn’t just a song. It was a spirit that spread our nation from sea to shining sea. The City of St Louis is home to the Gateway Arch, one of the most iconic symbols of the United States and a place where the pioneering spirit still thrives today.”

Expedia also points out: “St. Louis hearts the U.S.A. so much it can barely contain its public displays of affection. The iconic arch, which is officially dedicated to the American people and is the tallest arch in the world, welcomes with you to town with flair. Come July, the city throws ‘America’s biggest birthday party’ at Fair St. Louis, where hundreds of thousands of attendees enjoy a lineup of amazing bands, rides, local art vendors, food, and, of course, an epic display of fireworks. Stick around until August, when the Festival of Nations celebrates the beautiful tapestry of cultures that make America uniquely strong and beautiful. The event is sponsored by the International Institute, which greets new citizens, working to help them achieve the best America can offer.”

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