Travel Forum - Traveler Mania

Tucson, AZ



It's not just rodeos and golf in this laid-back city of 518,000. Surrounded by mountains and Saguaro National Park, Tucson has abundant natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Now you can add a happening downtown to its list of attractions. Decade-long efforts to redevelop the area have resulted in top-rated restaurants like chef Janos Wilder's Downtown Kitchen + Cocktails, along with scores of new shops, restaurants, and bars. And every second Saturday, a few downtown blocks are closed to traffic in the evening for a street fair, with artisans, food vendors, street performers, and live music acts.

Providence, RI



Move over, Boston. A renewed waterfront, vibrant arts scene, and sophisticated dining have turned this small college town into New England's most exciting city. Edgy galleries like New Urban Arts and AS220 host parties as well as exhibitions, while the RISD Museum shows French Impressionists, 20th-century masters, and rising young artists (including alums). The once-derelict West End neighborhood is now the city's epicenter of cool, with friendly dive bars, vintage stores, terrific eateries, and indie record stores. Swill cocktails at The Avery before moving on to the E&O Tap, a local institution.

Don't Miss: Opened in March 2010, Cook & Brown brings French finesse to down-home classics. Try the stuffed quail with cranberry relish and wild rice.