In an era where you can find plenty of free travel advice, cheap flights, and great value hotels, taking a break to explore one of America's great cities is easier than ever. But instead of the classics - San Francisco or New York, for example - why not head off to one of the more unappreciated destinations in this expansive country? Many metropolises in the United States have been undergoing rapid gentrification and a bit of a cultural renaissance in the past decade, so tourism is rising in many unappreciated destinations. Here are 10 of the best cities to visit in the USA that probably aren't on your radar - but should be.
Providence, Rhode Island
Providence has spent past few years scrubbing and improving their downtown district, making it a wonderful place to spend a few days visit. In summer, be sure to time your visit for the amazing Waterfire event, where the downtown riverway is set in a blaze of fire. Otherwise don't miss some of the creative and culinary highlights of Providence, such as the Athenaeum (an amazing old library), the shops and cafés of College Hill, the foodie scene on Federal Hill, or the inspiring Rhode Island School of Design Museum.
Tip: Stay at the Hampton Inn Downtown. Not only do you get the usual Hampton features (free Wifi, free breakfast, etc.) but the building was once a church and then a bank. So interesting!