4 Underrated US Cities for Culture and Fun

A traveler who has visited all 50 states has identified four US cities that are surprisingly underrated. These locations—Boise, Kansas City, Milwaukee, and Cleveland—are highlighted for their ability to blend adventure, culture, and affordability without the crowds of major tourist hubs.

While major coastal cities often dominate travel wishlists, these inland destinations offer unique attractions ranging from potato-shaped sundaes to historic speakeasies. The selection emphasizes that charm can be found in unexpected places, providing a mix of outdoor activities, architectural beauty, and distinct local traditions.

Boise is described as a 'Goldilocks city' that offers a perfect balance of city, country, mountains, and water. A traveler noted that it is possible to hike the foothills, float the river, and brewery-hop all in a single day.

The downtown area is compact and walkable, featuring murals, boutiques, and numerous restaurants. One of the favorite surprises for the traveler was the Basque Block, a cultural district where paella is often smelled sizzling in the streets.

For dining and treats, the local chain Boise Fry Co. offers a variety of potato options, while Westside Drive In serves a baked-potato-shaped ice cream sundae. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Bogus Basin, a ski area located 40 minutes from downtown, which offers skiing and tubing in the winter, as well as mountain biking and hiking in the summer.

Kansas City surprises visitors with architecture and plazas that feel more European than Midwestern. The Country Club Plaza, established in 1922, is an open-air shopping district with a layout inspired by Seville, Spain.

The city is also notable for being the first in the United States to roll out free public transportation. The KC Streetcar connects Union Station to the free Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, which is home to iconic shuttlecock sculptures.

Regarding food, the city's barbecue lives up to the hype. Recommendations include the Z-Man smoked-brisket sandwich at Joe's. The Museum of BBQ offers a look into the legacy of the cuisine. Additionally, the 18th & Vine District houses the American Jazz Museum and the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

Despite being called 'Little Chicago' by some, Milwaukee has a distinct personality. The city features unique attractions such as the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and the historic Pabst Mansion.

The Milwaukee Art Museum features moveable wings that 'take flight' each morning. A recommended starting point is the RiverWalk, a 3-mile stretch lined with cafes and public art, including the free RiverSculpture gallery.

Visitors can take a selfie with the Bronze Fonz before visiting the Milwaukee Public Market. For drinks, the SafeHouse is an iconic spy-themed speakeasy. A pro tip for visitors is to plan a trip in June for Summerfest, the world's largest music festival, or to catch a Brewers game to see the beloved sausage mascot race.

Cleveland is presented as an underdog city that steals the show. The traveler was impressed by the city's architecture, specifically The Arcade (a historic shopping center), West Side Market, and Heinen's Grocery Store, which is located in an opulent building from 1907.

The city is home to major cultural institutions, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Nature is also a key component of the city's appeal, with Cuyahoga Valley National Park being one of the country's last free national parks. The area also includes 18 Metroparks and beaches on Lake Erie.