10 Most Underrated American Cities
When Britons think about visiting a city across the pond, the big three usually pop up into their minds: New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. But the USA is home to more than 50 metropolitan areas with 1 million+ inhabitants. That means there are many cities completely off our radar. Here we list 10 of the most underrated American cities - for a slice of Americana that most never get to enjoy...
Seattle, Washington
Located on the eastern seaboard of Washington State, Seattle is so much more than endless coffees and drizzle. Nature lovers adore the many inland lakes and mountains, while music enthusiasts can choose from countless rock venues - some of the best in the country. And let's not forget the beer, wine and food: much of which is sourced from the fertile lands in the east, or the bountiful ocean to the west.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Unlike its gigantic cousin down the shores of Lake Michigan - Chicago - Milwaukee is off the radar of most visitors. That's a real shame, since it offers a tremendous old-school beer scene. Indeed, this is where Miller Time first happened - and you can still enjoy a tour around the old brewery.
Nashville, Tennessee
Perhaps one of the less-underrated among underrated US cities, Nashville is a mecca for fans of beer and music. The food scene is also well-loved, all of which makes it a wonderful place to live the high life - in a laid back southern way. Don't miss the famous hot chicken - try Hattie B's for starters.
Portland, Oregon
Blessed with both the Columbia River Valley and Willamette River Valley, the Portland area is great for hiking and relaxing in nature. You'll no doubt notice the many vineyards in the region - but the main tipple in Portland is beer. If you want to get to know this city before visiting, check out the hilarious Portlandia comedy sketch show, which sends up the city's hyper-PC reputation.
Kansas City, Missouri
Despite having a population of half a million, Kansas City has a laid-back, small-town vibe - making it a very chilled place to visit. The main draws are the beer, the food and the baseball - all of which can be enjoyed for a lot less than in NY or LA.
Asheville, North Carolina
Diminutive Asheville (pop 90k) boasts a beer and party scene that a much bigger city would be proud of. Sample some of Asheville's tastiest beers in New Belgium's Tap Room - ideal if you have a liking for meeting locals over a few daytime imbibes.
Savannah, Georgia
This unique city is famed for its humid atmosphere and the abundant Spanish moss that appears in nooks and crannies all over. Nature lovers adore the marshy flats that surround this transformative city of 150,000. For a modern take on classic Southern cuisine, pop into Mashama Bailey's The Grey. The grits with foie gras is unmissable!
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
With sports venues and drinking holes galore, Pittsburgh is one for the bucket list. But what may stick in your mind the most is the food. Before you try any other dishes, pop into Primanti Brothers first; they do some of the most audacious (and enormous) sarnies on the planet, mostly involving pastrami.
Charleston, South Carolina
Outside of July and August, Charleston is pleasantly humid - much like Savannah. It's also encompassed by vast grasslands that merge into the ocean. Food-wise, pop into Sean Brock's for one of the best cheese burgers you're ever likely to taste.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
With a vibrant arts scene and low living costs, it's little wonder Minneapolis attracts so many creative types. But alongside the many artists, chefs and musicians, you'll also find some fantastic food - particularly the Indigenous Food Movement, which aims to bring heritage bites back into the mainstream. We're talking hearty dishes of game, fish and wild rice.
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