Sacramento. California

Sacramento is a city of contradictions. It’s a former cattle town where you can spot state legislators' SUVs going bumper-to-bumper with farmers' muddy, half-ton pickup trucks and where there are lofts and upscale boutiques nestled between midcentury storefronts.

The people of ‘Sac’ are a resourceful bunch that foster small but thriving foodie, art and nightlife scenes. They rightfully brag about Second Saturday, the Midtown gallery hop that symbolizes of the city’s cultural awakening. Their ever-present farmers markets, farm-to-table dining and craft beers are another drawcard.