Second cities are becoming a growing travel trend. While the term is ambiguous, a second city is often described as the second-most populous destination. In the travel industry, that translates to destinations with the charm and excitement in popular cities, but it’s just under the radar.
Now, this isn’t a negative connotation. Think of second cities as hidden gems of places to travel. Second cities get overshadowed by their popular and busy counterparts. That’s where curious and open travelers will win. Second cities tend to be cheaper, less crowded, easy to get around, and more enjoyable.
Consider these alternative destinations to save money and explore while avoiding the cities overrun with crowds.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin Over Chicago, Illinois
Just 90 miles north of Chicago is the second city gem, Milwaukee. It’s a beautiful that sits along Lake Michigan’s western shore. “Cream City” boasts good brunch spots, fantastic waterfront views, festivals, and public art.
Like its Midwest counterpart, Milwaukee has no shortage of festivals. Known as the “City of Festivals,” there’s a festival each season throughout the year. You may need a few days to sort through the entire lineup of festivals in Milwaukee, but some of the highlights include Food Truck Fest, Weird Fest, International Anime Fest, Sweets and Treats Fest, and Jazz in the Park.
Speaking of Jazz, there’s a vibrant art scene in Milwaukee and not all of the city’s art requires an admission fee. Visitors can explore a city map dedicated to where to find free public art, including murals and sculptures. Other noteworthy spaces that are not free but worth the visit include the Milwaukee Art Museum, Sculpture Milwaukee, and the Wisconsin Black Historical Society and Museum.
Tampa and Surrounding Areas Over Miami, Florida
There’s no argument about Miami’s excitement, but the city’s luxurious enjoyment often comes with a hefty price tag.
The good news is there’s another vibrant beach city that will cut your costs in half without compromising a good time. Between Tampa and St. Petersburg, there are more than a dozen beaches – voted some of the best in the United States. To get the most out of the region’s beauty, make it a goal to explore a new beach each day during your stay for a sunrise or sunset. Clearwater Beach, Indian Rocks Beach, and St. Pete Beach are top picks among locals and tourists.
Thrill seekers can head to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, where there are more than 50 thrilling rides, attractions, and shows, or K1 Speed for some friendly competition with family and friends. Visitors who love the outdoors and want to switch up their daily beach routine can explore Bok Tower Gardens. Meanwhile, animal lovers have various options that will warm the heart, including ZooTampa at Lowry Park, The Florida Aquarium, and Giraffe Ranch.
Charlotte, North Carolina Over Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta has it all: a unique culture, a rich history, an incredible art scene, and an efficient airport. There’s no question about it being the capital of the south.
That said, having everything comes with a cost, including the nuisances of long waits and queue lines for popular attractions or spending hours in traffic – all things that can make your visit insufferable, to say the least. That’s where Queen City comes in. Attractions and entertainment in Charlotte are more centrally located.
Art lovers visiting Charlotte should head to the Mint Museum UPTOWN, the Mint Museum Randolph, and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art. Other popular attractions outside of the museums are the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts and Culture, and the Discovery Place for Science.
Head to 1501 South Mint – a speakeasy-inspired Uptown lounge for good cocktails and nightlife. For a unique dining experience, head to Jinya Ramen Bar, another gem in Uptown known for its slowly-cooked broth and eclectic music. Vegetarians, vegans, flexitarians, and everything in between should head to Romeo’s Vegan Burgers. It’s a fully vegan burger spot that even meat-eaters enjoy.
Santa Barbara, California Over Los Angeles, California
Located about an hour and a half north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is a central California city that wine enthusiasts and people who love to spend outdoors will love. Santa Barbara is a top wine destination both in the U.S. and around the world. The best way to experience its diverse wine culture is by participating in The Urban Wine Trail, which refers to the more than 20 tasting rooms located within a couple of blocks of each other in downtown Santa Barbara.
It’s also known for its pristine beaches that shouldn’t be missed. East Beach, West Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach, also known as “Hendry’s Beach,” and Butterfly Beach are among the best in the region. Other top experiences for people who want to take in the outdoors include hiking, biking around the city and state parks, kayaking, whale watching, and more.
Baltimore Instead of Washington, D.C.
While there are nearly 40 miles between Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, the cities have completely different vibes. Known as Charm City, Baltimore has a beautiful waterfront, people, and culture.
The first stop on your Baltimore itinerary should be the Inner Harbor –home to popular attractions such as the Maryland Science Center, the National Aquarium, and the American Visionary Arts Museum. You will smell the McCormick’s Old Bay in the air. Thankfully, the inner harbor is lined with restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
Just a few blocks away is Fells Point, where locals enjoy live music, pubs, taverns, and small specialty shops for fashion, records, and more quirky finds.
Travelers can explore African American culture at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture, which explores 400 years of history in its permanent collection.