Where to Go Next? Try a ‘Second City’

What the data shows is Interestingly, From an analytical standpoint, Big cities might have big appeal — but they’re not the only places worth visiting

In contrast, The term “second cities” traditionally refers to a region’s second-largest city, but it generally describes other populous but often overlooked urban centers that der much of what major metropolises do, given current economic conditions

Nevertheless, To be, these aren’t small towns off the highway

At the same time, Second cities have the cultural richness, culinary chops and charisma of the better-known metropolises, but usually with fewer crowds and sometimes lower prices (noteworthy indeed)

They're well worth adding to your itinerary, or even planning a full trip around (which is quite significant)

Additionally, Why second cities strike the sweet spotSecond cities offer the best of both worlds when you're looking for a destination with things to do, but slightly less touristy

Additionally, Here’s what makes them appealing:Less chaos: With fewer tourists and less traffic, second cities often feel less stressful than their bustling counterparts

Moreover, Additionally, For a relaxing trip, that might be exactly what you’re looking for

Your friends ly haven’t been there yet: By visiting a second city, you’ll be able to experience the culture, food and history of a certain region beyond the usual tourist checklist

And your trip might be more memorable because of it

Easy transportation: In many second cities, you can walk or rely on occasional rides

That s on rental cars, gas and parking fees

Free or cheap things to do: Much their larger counterparts, second cities often pack in cultural institutions, scenic parks, historic sites and local entertainment — often for little or no cost

Furthermore, Second cities in the U (an important development)

That are worth a lookWe compiled some of the second cities that make great vacation destinations

This tells us that isn't a formal ranking or an exhaustive list — just some of our favorite spots

Moreover, The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, given the current landscape

Looking at Houston (noteworthy indeed)

Try San Antonio, TexasJust a three-hour drive away from Houston — Texas’ largest city and a major hub — San Antonio offers a visitor-friendly experience, with walkable attractions, lower prices and historic charm

Nevertheless, Plus, many of San Antonio’s top attractions are either free or cheap

You can explore much of the iconic Alamo at no cost, stroll the San Antonio River Walk (one of the country’s most charming pedestrian corridors), or wander through the Japanese Tea Garden — all without spending a dime

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Additionally, Looking at New York City, given current economic conditions

On the other hand, Try Atlantic City, New Jersey Just over two hours by bus or train from Manhattan, Atlantic City ders many of the same urban draws: headline concerts, high-end dining, boutique shopping and even a budding arts scene, in today's financial world

Santa Barbara, California

On the other hand, Looking at Los Angeles

Moreover, Go for Santa Barbara, CaliforniaThink glamping, kayaking, wine-tasting and art galleries (remarkable data), in today's market environment

Furthermore, In contrast, Santa Barbara has it all with Pacific views and way less traffic

Nevertheless, Madison, Wisconsin

Looking at Chicago, in today's market environment

Nevertheless, On the other hand, Behind New York. (Now it's third, behind Los Angeles (something worth watching) (something worth watching). ) But if you’re looking for another great destination near Chicago, Madison is worth a visit (fascinating analysis)

Pedal around the lakeside trails, stroll through the Dane County Farmers’ Market, then unwind at a brewery or kayak launch just steps from the Capitol dome

Additionally, However, Looking at Phoenix

Head to Flagstaff, Arizona Flagstaff’s neon signs, retro diners and ties to the historic Route 66 highway make it a memorable road trip destination (an important development), in today's financial world

Additionally, Nature lovers can cool off beneath Ponderosa pines and explore volcanic caves in this laid-back mountain town

How to maximize your rewardsYou want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you

She previously wrote travel and credit cards for The New York Times and its sibling site, Wirecutter (something worth watching), amid market uncertainty

However, She also has worked for MarketWatch and The Orange County Register (which is quite significant)

Nevertheless, Furthermore, She loves fitness, and her travels have included cycling up the coastline of Vietnam and over the sea ice in the Arctic Circle

On the other hand, Meanwhile, Oh, and she can deadlift triple bodyweight (an important development)

Furthermore, Sally studied journalism at the University of Missouri

However, Twitter: @SAFmedia

Moreover, See full bio.