Baltimore. Maryland

Once one of the most important port towns in America, Baltimore – or 'Bawlmer' as the locals say it – is a city of contradictions. On one hand it's a bit of an ugly duckling –defiant, blue-collar, and gritty with strong ties to its nautical past. But recently Baltimore has begun to grow in its character– it's gotten better at showing the world its more refined side with its world-class museums, trendy shops, ethnic restaurants, boutique hotels, culture and sports.

'B'more' does this with a twinkle in its eye and a wisecrack on its lips. Yet it has been and will always stay tied to the water, from the Inner Harbor and cobblestoned streets of waterside Fell's Point to the shores of Fort McHenry, birthplace of America's national anthem. There's an intense, sincere friendliness to this city; Baltimore lives up to its nickname: 'Charm City.'