To put it simply: there are a ton of cities in the United States.
I mean, how do you even start picking destinations for a Great American Holiday, or, if you live there already, choosing a city to visit on vacation or a spot to relocate to?
Well, like seemingly everywhere in the world, my research has shown me that you are bound to get more bang for your buck—and probably a more rewarding experience—if you look to get a little off-the-beaten path.
I’m not talking places that need a maximum zoom on Google Maps, I am talking about those second-tier cities. These are cities that have huge populations and subsequently almost everything all the bigger and more famous places do (we’re talking culture, universities, restaurants, pro sports), but just happen to be a little lesser known.
Whether you are looking to permanently move or just see the sights for a few days, real estate prices, hotel rates and food costs are destined to be lower in an underrated American city and one property tax search will even show you that your tax burden could be easier to handle too.
The following are a few of America’s hidden gems that I have either visited or read so darn much about I feel like I have.
Omaha
Set on the banks of the Missouri River in Nebraska, Omaha is always described as a surprise by those that visit for the first time.
Omaha is full of vibrant neighborhoods like cobblestoned Old Market, hip Benson and Dundee—all loaded with eclectic eats and drinks. In fact, Omaha is the birthplace of the Rueben sandwich. There is an award-winning zoo, Creighton University and the fact that Omaha hosts the College World Series each year.
But I guess it all really comes down to this: If it’s good enough for Warren Buffett, it has to be good enough for all of us, right?
Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh might just have one of the best settings of any major city in America. Nestled in a valley where three rivers come together, the sight of Pittsburgh from above is postcard-quality stuff.
The city’s three professional sports teams are followed fanatically and numerous universities in the city provide the highbrow balance to all that scoreboard watching.
The food is unique, too (grilled sandwiches stuffed with fries and coleslaw, mmm) as is the locals own lingo nicknamed Pittsburghese.
Louisville
Kentucky’s largest city, Louisville is a place where the South and North come together with delicious results. You’ll find more bourbon bars (Bourbon County is only a couple hours away) here than you can shake an oak barrel alongside quality restaurants and a gorgeous riverfront.
Old Louisville has some of the finest architectural gems in all of America and of course each May this city goes crazy for the world-famous Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Sip a mint julep on race day and then later on in the evening indulge in a Hot Brown, the city’s signature sandwich—served open-faced with turkey, bacon, and loads of cheese baked on top.
Nashville
So much more than just the capital of country music, Nashville is so hot right now, and I don’t just mean their signature spicy fried chicken.
The city is growing, the quality of life is high and the winters are fairly mild. Leafy suburbs surround the lively downtown, which in recent years has come to rival even Vegas for “crazy weekend getaway capital of the USA”.
Salt Lake City
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, a massive buoyant lake and a plethora of other gorgeous western landscapes Salt Lake City is another surprise. There’s a vibrant cultural scene, great Mexican food and of course all the gorgeous Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints temples.
It all really comes down to nature though, as within a short drive from SLC you can be in the powder of Park City or hiking a mountain.
Charlotte
North Carolina has been one of America’s fastest-growing states for decades and Charlotte is its most cosmopolitan city.
Here you will find lively neighborhoods, great entertainment and a real mix of Old South and New South. Oh, and don’t forget to the try the barbecue.
Tampa
When international travelers think about Florida, they often assume Miami is the only option. On the opposite side of the state lies Tampa Bay (home to Tampa and St. Petersburg), which offers a different style of Florida beach life.
Tampa’s historic Ybor City has a fascinating history as a hub for cigar-making and nowadays is packed tight with nightlife spots. Neighboring Clearwater Beach has gorgeous sands and laid back beach bars. There’s also the Gasparilla festival, which might just be America’s most underrated party. Think of it as a mardi gras on water and another reason to see Tampa Bay.
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