Exploring America's Best Hidden Gems

CNN recently came out with their list of America's Best Towns to Visit in 2024, which highlights some lesser-known gems across the United States, each offering unique experiences and attractions. Let's delve into each town mentioned and recommend specific places worth exploring.

1. Richmond, Virginia

   • Recommendations: Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for its extensive collection, explore the historic Shockoe Slip neighborhood for its cobblestone streets and vibrant dining scene, and take a walk along the James River Park System for outdoor activities. Tour the Virginia State Capitol to see one of the oldest state capitol buildings in the country, designed by Thomas Jefferson. Visit the Edgar Allan Poe Museum to delve into the life and works of the famous American writer. Discover the Church Hill Historic District, Richmond's oldest neighborhood known for its preserved 19th-century architecture and the site of St. John's Episcopal Church, where Patrick Henry gave his famous speech. Take a Canal Cruise along the historic Kanawha Canal to learn about Richmond's history in early American industry and transportation.

2. Providence, Rhode Island

   • Recommendations: Experience WaterFire, an art installation that lights up downtown rivers, visit the Rhode Island School of Design Museum for its impressive art collection, and explore Federal Hill for excellent Italian cuisine. Wander through Benefit Street on the East Side to admire its historic architecture and homes dating back to the 18th century. Take a stroll through Roger Williams Park, one of the oldest landscaped parks in the country, featuring a zoo, botanical center, and scenic pathways. Visit the Providence Athenaeum, a historic library and cultural center with a stunning interior and rich literary history. Explore the Providence Riverwalk, a scenic pathway along the waterfront offering views of the city skyline, bridges, and public art installations.

3. Tacoma, Washington

   • Recommendations: Visit the Museum of Glass to witness glassblowing demonstrations, explore Point Defiance Park for outdoor activities and scenic views, and take a flightseeing tour to appreciate the natural beauty around Mount Rainier. Stroll through the Chihuly Bridge of Glass, a pedestrian bridge featuring stunning glass art installations by Dale Chihuly. Visit LeMay - America's Car Museum, showcasing a vast collection of vintage automobiles and interactive exhibits. Explore the Washington State History Museum, located in downtown Tacoma, offering exhibits on the region's diverse history and culture. Enjoy a performance at the Broadway Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and dance performances throughout the year.

4. Portland, Maine

   • Recommendations: Head to Portland Head Light for iconic coastal views, explore the Old Port district for shopping and dining, and visit the Portland Museum of Art for its impressive collection. Take a ferry to Peaks Island or one of the other nearby islands to explore scenic beaches and trails. Enjoy a seafood meal at one of Portland's renowned restaurants, known for their fresh lobster, clam chowder, and other local specialties. Walk along the Eastern Promenade, a waterfront park offering beautiful views of Casco Bay and Portland's skyline. Explore the Victoria Mansion, a historic home showcasing elaborate Victorian architecture and interiors.

5. San Luis Obispo, California

   • Recommendations: Enjoy hiking in Bishop Peak Natural Reserve, explore the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, and relax at Avila Beach for a day by the Pacific Ocean. Visit the San Luis Obispo Farmers' Market, held weekly in downtown, featuring local produce, food vendors, and live music. Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) to enjoy breathtaking ocean views and stop at picturesque spots like Morro Bay and Montana de Oro State Park. Explore the quirky Bubblegum Alley in downtown San Luis Obispo, known for its walls covered in chewed gum artwork. Visit the Madonna Inn, a unique hotel with whimsically themed rooms and a famous pink dining room, offering a delightful and colorful experience.

6. Flagstaff, Arizona

   • Recommendations: Visit Lowell Observatory for stargazing, explore Walnut Canyon National Monument for ancient cliff dwellings, and stroll through historic downtown Flagstaff for its vibrant atmosphere. Take a scenic drive along the Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Skyride, offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Peaks and the surrounding Coconino National Forest. Hike or bike the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS), which winds through the city and connects various parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. Visit the Museum of Northern Arizona to learn about the region's Native American cultures, geology, and natural history through exhibits and collections. Explore Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, where you can hike trails through volcanic landscapes and see the results of past volcanic eruptions.

7. Macon, Georgia

   • Recommendations: Visit the Allman Brothers Band Museum at The Big House for a deep dive into musical history, explore the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, and dine at local spots like H&H Restaurant for Southern cuisine. Take a guided tour of Hay House, known as the "Palace of the South," featuring stunning architecture and historical furnishings from the 19th century. Attend the Cherry Blossom Festival in March, celebrating Macon's 350,000+ Yoshino cherry trees with events, concerts, and parades. Explore the Tubman Museum, showcasing African American art, history, and culture through exhibits and educational programs. Walk or bike along the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, offering scenic views of the Ocmulgee River and access to historical sites and recreational areas.

8. Grand Rapids, Michigan

   • Recommendations: Explore Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park for art and nature, visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, and enjoy the local craft beer scene with stops at Founders Brewing Co. and other breweries. Discover the Grand Rapids Art Museum, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world and hosting rotating exhibitions. Take a walk along the Grand Riverwalk, a scenic pathway along the Grand River offering views of downtown Grand Rapids and access to parks and public art installations. Attend ArtPrize, an annual art competition held in Grand Rapids where artists from around the world display their work in various venues across the city. Visit the John Ball Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and offering attractions like zip lining and a funicular railway for scenic views of the zoo and surrounding area.

9. Knoxville, Tennessee

   • Recommendations: Experience live music at venues like the historic Bijou Theatre, explore the Knoxville Museum of Art for regional artwork, and hike in the Urban Wilderness for outdoor adventures. Visit the Sunsphere in World's Fair Park for panoramic views of Knoxville and learn about the city's history and the 1982 World's Fair. Take a stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk, a scenic pathway along the waterfront offering views of the Tennessee River and access to parks and recreational areas. Explore Market Square and the Old City, vibrant downtown districts known for their shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visit the East Tennessee History Center to learn about the region's history through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs.

10. Duluth, Minnesota

    • Recommendations: Enjoy scenic views of Lake Superior along the Lakewalk, visit the Great Lakes Aquarium, and explore Canal Park for dining and shopping. Take a ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad, offering tours along Lake Superior's shoreline with historic locomotives. Visit the Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center to learn about Duluth's maritime history and watch ships pass through the Duluth-Superior Harbor. Explore Glensheen Historic Estate, a mansion with beautiful gardens and a history reflecting early 20th-century life along Lake Superior. Take a day trip to Split Rock Lighthouse State Park to see the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse and enjoy hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Superior's rugged coastline.

These towns offer a variety of experiences from cultural attractions and outdoor activities to vibrant food scenes and historical landmarks, making them perfect destinations for travelers seeking something beyond the typical tourist spots.