While many surveys are based on subjective opinions, this particular ranking takes a more scientific and objective approach. Premier Inn, a renowned hotel chain, conducted this research by showing 30 participants a series of images of cities during the fall season. What makes this study unique is the use of eye-tracking software to measure the average length of time participants spent looking at each image. The logic was simple: the longer someone gazes at a picture, the more “eye-catching” and beautiful the destination must be.

Chicago was ranked second place on the list, with an average fixation time of 1.66 seconds. This time placed Chicago just 0.08 seconds behind the top spot, which was awarded to Bath in the United Kingdom. Following Chicago in third place was Cape Town in South Africa. Boston was a close fourth, joining Chicago as the second city in the United States to make it into the top ten. A third U.S. city, Dallas, made the list coming in at 35th place.

This ranking reaffirms that Chicagoans’ admiration for the city is far more than just a bias but a globally recognized consensus. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, be sure to experience the breathtaking beauty of Chicago, a city that stands proudly as one of the most beautiful places to be during the autumn season.