These Are the Most Underrated Cities in America

When choosing what city to visit in the United States, the list can feel endless. Most people think of large cities like Los Angeles, New York City, Boston, Chicago, or Miami. Although these are excellent cities, what about the hidden gems? Keep reading to learn about the most underrated cities in America and fun things to do in each city.

Missoula, Montana

Montana is filled with incredible cities to visit. One of the most underrated ones is Missoula, located in the western part of the state. The surface area of Missoula is about 35 square miles. Within this lovely city, there are about 74,000 people. 

So, what makes this city stand out? Missoula is an exciting and charming city. While visiting, you can spend time at the Missoula Farmers’ Market, Montana Natural History Center, Garnet Ghost Town, and The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

Fort Myers, Florida

There are a few underrated or hidden gem cities/towns in Florida. This state has become one of the most moved-to states in the country, and not just in the major cities! Still, Fort Myers can be considered an underrated city. Fort Myers has a population of about 90,000. The surface area of this city is 49 square miles.

Within Fort Myers, there is a lot to explore. For instance, you aren’t too far from the beach or freshwater springs. Also in Fort Myers are the Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve, Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, and the River District.

Lincoln, Nebraska

Continuing our list of the most underrated cities in America in Lincoln, Nebraska. This Nebraska city is calm and filled with incredible activities to enjoy. Lincoln has a population of about 290,000. It’s the capital city of the state but doesn’t receive many visitors, which is perfect if you’re looking for low crowds. 

Some of the best things to do in Lincoln are visit museums like the University of Nebraska State Museum, International Quilt Museum, Lincoln Children’s Museum, and the National Museum of Roller Skating. If you’re looking to spend time outside with nature, you can also go to the Pioneer Park Nature Center or the Sunken Gardens.

Homer, Alaska

Alaska does not get enough love. The biggest reason is how far the state is from the contiguous U.S. Tickets aren’t always cheap. Still, if you can take a trip, don’t miss out on Homer, an underrated American city. Homer is a small city that looks like something from a Hallmark movie. It’s charming, quiet, and only has a population of about 5,000. Don’t let its small size fool you, though; there is plenty to explore.

While visiting this “cosmic hamlet by the sea”, you can go to Bishops Beach, the Pratt Museum, and the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center.

Cleveland, Ohio

Not a lot of people immediately think of Ohio when looking for states to visit, but one of the most underrated cities in the country is found there, Cleveland. Cleveland, home of the Cavaliers, is a vibrant city with a population of around 370,000 people. The surface area for this old city, founded in 1796, is 82 square miles.

Honestly, there is a long list of things you can do and see in Cleveland. Here are a few: the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the House from A Christmas Story, the Great Lakes Science Center, and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History.

Greenville, South Carolina

The most visited city in South Carolina is Charleston, but truthfully, Greenville is just as stunning. Greenville is in northern South Carolina. It’s a gorgeous city with a population of about 70,000 and a surface area of 30 square miles.

Greenville is best known for its family-friendly attractions. One of the best outdoor experiences in this city is the Falls Park on the Reedy, which is also a scenic riverwalk downtown. Also in Greenville are Paris Mountain State Park and the Roper Mountain Science Center.

Providence, Rhode Island

Rhode Island is one of the least popular states in the country. The state itself is a hidden gem, and the cities within this small state are incredible, including Providence. Providence is a city in Providence County. It’s the capital of the state and the most populous, with a population of around 190,000. The surface area of this major city is nearly 21 square miles. 

Providence has a booming tourist industry that is currently growing. This up-and-coming destination offers fun activities and experiences like the Roger Williams Park, Roger Williams Park Zoo, and the Lippitt House Museum.

Indianapolis, Indiana

The state of Indiana isn’t high on many people’s lists, but it should be just to visit Indianapolis. This wonderful major city has over 200 years of history, as it was founded on January 6, 1821. The city has a surface area of 361 square miles, and over 880,000 people call it home.

Now, for the fun part, what is there to do in this underrated city? Some great things to do in Indianapolis include visiting White River State Park, catching a game or event at the Lucas Oil Stadium, and exploring the scenic Eagle Creek Park.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Also on our list is Flagstaff, Arizona. Most people really only know Phoenix, but Flagstaff has its charm, too. This Arizona city is a great place to visit for a snowy winter getaway. The city has a surface area of about 66 square miles. There are about 70,000 people who call this mountainous city home.

Flagstaff is an incredible city to visit if you love stargazing. This city is the world’s first International Dark Sky City. Other than star gazing and enjoying winter activities, visitors can also check out Riordan Mansion State Historic Park and the nearby Walnut Canyon National Monument.

Olympia, Washington

Washington is more than just Seattle or Tacoma. Also in this mountainous state is Olympia, an underrated city. Olympia is in Thurston County and is the state’s capital. The surface area of Olympia is 20 square miles, and about 55,000 people live there. This remarkable city is full of beauty.

Some great things you can do in Olympia, Washington, include visiting gorgeous outdoor spots like Squaxin Park, the East Bay Public Plaza, Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Tolmie State Park, and the nearby Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

New Mexico is a lot of fun to visit. One of the best cities in this state is Albuquerque. It’s also the largest city in the state. Albuquerque is home to more than 500,000 people. The surface area of this lovely city is around 189 square miles. This city has a lot of history. It was founded in 1706, meaning it’s over three centuries old.

You can experience the city’s rich culture and history by exploring the many things to do. Some of the best places to visit in Albuquerque are the Petroglyph National Monument, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and the Sandia Peak Tramway.

Helena, Montana

Last but not least is Helena, Montana. Helena is a stunning, underrated city in this western state, first founded on October 30, 1864. The surface area of this city is 16.9 square miles, while the population is around 32,000.

Helena is known for its gorgeous scenery. Mountains can be seen in the distance, providing a breathtaking backdrop. Some incredible things to do in Helena are to admire the century-old Cathedral of Saint Helena, visit the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness, and the Spring Meadow Lake State Park.

Summary of the Most Underrated Cities in America

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