B-Side Cities Worthy of All The Attention

“Second” or “B-side city” refers to a destination often less well-known than its bigger counterpart in the same region or country. However, in my travels, I have enjoyed visiting quite a few that deserve all the love and attention. Here is my list of favorite, attention-worthy destinations full of character and charm and with so much to explore!

Traverse City, Michigan

A pocket-sized city with a vibrant downtown located on a Great Lake. TC enjoys easy access to hundreds of wineries, farms, cheesemakers, and a national lakeshore. I was struck by feeling like a newbie discovering a place for the first time yet welcomed like I had lived there my entire life. 

Check out our Traverse City episode for more!

Brooklyn, New York

Okay, technically Brooklyn is a borough, but if it weren’t it would be the 4^th largest city in the United States. Manhattan gets all the travel love and is nowhere near as cool as Brooklyn is. I am totally biased.    

Check out our Brooklyn, NY episode for more!

Huntsville, Alabama

This Southern hidden gem has a lot of surprises. It’s where the most creative people mix with scientists and the mash-up is travel perfection. I was in Huntsville for my very first season of Places to Love, and 84 episodes later, it remains a favorite. 

Check out our Huntsville, AL episode for more!

Xi’an, China

Xi’an was the capital of China for 13 dynasties and the terminus of the Silk Road. The Terra Cotta Warriors are unlike anything you will see in your life and at night, the historic buildings put on a light show that is totally magical. 

Check out our Xi’an, China episode for more!

Lafayette, Louisiana

Home to Cajun country as well as Zydeco music, Lafayette is a low key but celebratory place where the local saying is “I’ve never met a stranger” and everyone’s a friend!

Check out our Lafayette, LA episode for more!

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore has shaped American colonial history from the beginning, yet it has an unconventional quirkiness that ensures you have a great time. Follow in the footsteps of Frederick Douglass and enjoy a museum known for outsider art.  Do whatever it takes to meet a real Hon. 

Check out our Baltimore, MD episode for more!

Corning, New York

Home to the Main Street of our dreams, you would be forgiven to think of Corning as “cute”.  And yet its famous 175-year-old glass manufacturer has been the center of so many life-altering innovations. Luckily, it has a state-of-the-art museum where its story can be told. Corning is also a part of the glorious Finger Lakes Region, so you’ve got natural beauty and wine. 

Check out our Southern Finger Lakes episode for more!

Belfast, Ireland

A cultural center of Europe, from the best live music venues to its street art and murals against a backdrop of preserved Victorian architecture. Drive up the Antrim Coast to the Giant’s Causeway for an Irish trip you’ll never forget. 

Check out our Belfast, Northern Ireland episode for more!

Madison, Wisconsin

A city consistently voted as one of the best places to live is ALWAYS a good sign. Set on two lakes, its overall vibe is part outdoorsy, part food and beverage obsessed. We’re talking about a Supper Club to act out your Mad Men dreams, a rare organic brewery, and don’t get me started on the cheese scene.

Check out our Madison, WI episode for more!

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

A seaside city founded in the 1600s has become a beacon of small shops, restaurants, and the best music venues in New England. It’s got a ton of charm and gravitas. It’s packed in the summer but equally as enjoyable in the off season. 

Check out our New Hampshire Seacoast episode for more!

Vienna, Austria

The size of this city doesn’t scream “B side”, yet it’s often overlooked over other major European capitals like Paris, London, and Rome. It’s one of the greenest cities in Europe with a lot to offer. Enjoy Grand Palace tours and world-class museums, then swim in the Danube.  

Check out our Vienna, Austria episode for more!