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15 Off-the-Beaten Path U.S. Cities That Will Surprise You. Add To The List?

These cities are often overlooked, but they have a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. A user asked, What are your favorite “second-tier” cities in the United States? and here are the best answers (and, some hidden gems for travel enthusiasts)

1. Savannah, GA

Travel hiker taking photo of Lake Braies (Lago di Braies) in Dolomites Mountains, Italy. Hiking travel and adventure.

Image Credits: Deposit Photos

“This. Beautiful scenery, great weather, incredible food, close to a beach, rich history, I could go on forever…:” said one. 

 2. Louisville, KY

american lady

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“Bourbon, history, Victorian and shotgun homes. Eclectic affordable food, decent theater, and arts scene. Friendly people.” a user said.

3. Providence, RI

driving car on highway, close up of hands on steering wheel

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“I am fortunate to live here. It’s manageable and has all the right components: College town, immigrant neighborhoods, a somewhat vibrant downtown, an upper-class section, an “artsy” section, decent food culture, etc. It’s also retained its solid middle-class soul despite gentrification. It’s also safe, for the most part. It’s like a city without the size.” said one.

Read: 10 Worst Cities To Avoid in the U.S. in 2023 (For Relocating Or Travel) 

 4. Santa Fe, TX

3. starbucks

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“Albequerque, hell no! But Santa Fe, that’s another planet, one of the most exciting cities in the country. San Antonio is great for a long or extra-long weekend, as is Austin, Nashville, and Memphis, Quebec City is unique on this side of the Atla if you want to go further afieldntic.” said another.

5. Fort Worth, TX

work from anywhere

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“The amenities of having Dallas so close and the shared distance to Arlington bypass many big-city problems. Some of the best museums, recital hall, and a significant culture epi-center for the state (rodeo, TCU, massive country music venues). Plus, on the weekends, a parking garage in the center of downtown’s main square is free to park in, which helps spur a lot of evening visits to the city.” a user said.

6. Tuscon, Az

Happy Healthy Senior Couple with Water Bottles Outdoors.

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“Solid arts scene, the great beer scene, college town, safe, and minutes from fantastic outdoors. From what I’ve heard, very affordable too. I’ve been a few times for work, and twice now, I’ve extended it through the weekend.” said one.

Read: Escape to Paradise: 10 U.S. Destinations That Will Take Your Breath Away

 7. Cleveland, Ohio

Portrait of Young girl driving cabriolet at sunset.

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“Low cost of living, free, world-class Art museum, amazing metro park rings city (Emerald Necklace), major sports teams, the light railway from the international airport to downtown and points east, thriving restaurants/entertainment venues, casino, our idea about traffic jams would be a joke to NYC & CHI, world-class medical system, Amtrak, thriving library system city and countywide.” a user said.

8. Chattanooga, TN

Low angle portrait of beautiful family couple enjoying fresh air in the forest

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“Lots of great things to do downtown and on Lookout Mountain. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, it’s awe-inspiring.” said one.

9. Madison, WI

Woman put her head out the car window and gesturing with his hands.

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“Best college town in America. Lakes, beer, and walkable downtown. Summers are amazing.” a Redditor said.

Read: Retiring Soon or Want To Retire Soon? You Better Live In One Of These 10 Places in the USA

10. Salt Lake, UT

theme park

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“Unbeatable for access to the outdoors, good food scene for the city size, beautiful views, etc. Slight knocks for the overly religious conservative influence on the state outside of the metro and air quality in winter.” shared one.

11. Pittsburgh, PA

travel blogger

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“Affordable, medical marijuana, great food/drink scene, international airport. Close to Canada and has a lot of State parks that are Free.” said one.

12. Cambridge, MA

sunset

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“Arts, culture, parks, shopping, the river, public transportation, jobs.” a user said.

Read: Traveler Beware: Top 10 Vacation Spots to Skip in 2023

13. Cincinnati, OH

A woman walks along a sidewalk lined with trees in Seoul, Korea.

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

“The Riverfront is alive and active, and downtown finally has a solid food scene with various styles and delicacies. If you leave the city, there are some great city parks and even better state parks. You get the Bengals, The Reds, FC Cincinnati, Xavier & UC for sports/theater entertainment and one of the world’s best zoos.” said one.

14. Richmond, VA

portrait of a cute brunette girl drinking mate

Image Credits: Deposit Photos.

 “The fantastic restaurant scene, good music, and decent arts/culture… no more racist loser statues.” a user shared.

Read: How To Make Money Travel Blogging? – 5 Ways To Do It In 2023

15. Grand Rapids, MI

no vacation

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“Charming river city is full of art and diverse restaurants. I love my little city. 30 Minutes from Lake Michigan!” said one.

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This originally appeared on Mrs Daaku Studio