There are big cities, bustling and hectic, and small ones, where it’s still busy, but the vibe is calmer and relaxed. In such places, “it’s easy to thrive,” something the AARP (formerly American Association of Retired Persons) considered when they crafted the 2022 Livability Index for the United States. The index is focused on an area’s quality of life and targets retirees and those aged 50 and up, but it’s also helpful for tourists to do due diligence before visiting a city.When exploring small cities (with a population of 25,000 to 99,999, according to AARP), tourists will get that urban vibe yet still experience a “small-town” aura. As such, they will be tempted to live in said places instead of just touring around.
10 Silver Spring, Maryland
Silver Spring was named after a spring in what is now Acorn Park, which currently houses “arguably the only giant acorn-shaped gazebo in the world.” This city is the culture and arts hub of Montgomery County, so when tourists explore its downtown and many institutions, their hearts will be filled with inspiration. As such, when they go home, they would want to return soon. Among its landmarks are the National Museum of Health and Medicine, the Coastline wave pool at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Mammalian Brain Collection, and the longest escalator in the Western Hemisphere. Indeed, Silver Spring knows how to deliver a fun ride.
9 North Bethesda, Maryland
North Bethesda is a bedroom community but not a sleepy city. After all, it has varied neighborhoods where surprises abound. Along Pike & Rose, for instance, tourists can shop until they drop, while Strathmore will wow architecture buffs with its amazing buildings spearheaded by a mansion and a music center. Outdoor and history lovers will enjoy the calm of Josiah Henson Park, named after a reverend whose autobiography inspired Harriet Beecher Stowe to write Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Indeed, nothing goes south in North Bethesda.
8 Roseville, Minnesota
Roseville is near Minneapolis and the Minnesotan capital of Saint Paul, making it a tiny pocket of refuge in a busy metropolis. This urban suburb is accessible to almost anything, so tourists won’t have a hard time exploring. For starters, they can visit museums and historical sites, like Gibbs Farm, which highlights pioneer and Dakota life. Outdoor recreation is also big in this city, thanks to its hangout spots like the undeveloped Reservoir Woods Park; Guidant John Rose Minnesota Oval, the largest outdoor refrigerated skating facility in the continent; and the pristine Bennett Lake. Wherever in Roseville, it is blooming.
7 Richfield, Minnesota
Richfield is also near the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, a “perfectly positioned” city within a thriving urban landscape. It is known as the headquarters of the global brand Best Buy, but it’s more than this retail giant. After all, it has numerous parks, spearheaded by the serene Wood Lake Nature Center. Within this destination, tourists would think, how can something lush be in a city? Talk about an urban jungle. Those who want to get active can take on the challenge of the Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail, while fall visitors can enjoy the vibrant PennFest. Indeed, it is rich in Richfield.
6 Bergenfield, New Jersey
Bergenfield is a welcoming borough, especially since it has a large Filipino community known for its hospitality. Dubbed the Little Manila of Bergen County, this city was among the safest cities in the country in 2012 and 2013; no wonder it’s among the most livable. The presence of many parks makes the quality of life in this town enticing for those not just looking for a retirement place but a destination to explore. By Cooper’s Pond, for instance, peace comes easy, with its breeze encouraging visitors to explore the borough beyond its attractions -- meaning, to meet its friendly locals.
5 Somerville, Massachusetts
Somerville is proud of its residents from all walks of life and its thriving immigrant community. It is “one of the most ethnically-diverse cities” in the country. As such, those exploring this Massachusetts charmer will be enveloped by varied cultures. For a quick introduction to the city’s past, tourists should head to the museum and follow it with a tour of its historical sites. Afterward, they can check out its many parks that cater to those who want to break a sweat. What tourists should not miss is the Fluff Festival, which happens every September and is a celebration of marshmallow creme invented in Somerville. Tasty, indeed.
4 Arlington, Massachusetts
Saying Arlington is filled to the brim with attractions is an understatement. This city is a sightseer’s paradise because of its many landmarks, led by Old Schwamb Mill, the “oldest continuously operating mill site” in the country. A tour of the mill is best followed up with a visit to historic houses, the towering Arlington Reservoir, and the inspiring Cyrus E. Dallin Art Museum. After stepping back in time, Mother Nature awaits visitors, especially since the city is home to such waterways as Mystic River, Mystic Lakes, Alewife Brook, and Spy Pond. The list goes in darling Arlington.
3 Belmont, Massachusetts
Belmont, which neighbors Arlington, also has its fair share of attractions that will interest sightseers. Called by locals “The Town of Homes,” this highly residential Massachusetts charmer welcomes curious wanderers. One of its inviting neighborhoods is Belmont Hill, where mansions line the street, including that of Senator Mitt Romney and Nobel laureate Robert Burns Woodward. After meandering its streets, tourists can cap off their Belmont journey along Pine Allée, a playground for trekkers and a refuge for nature lovers. Indeed, Belmont is beautiful.
2 Watertown, Massachusetts
Watertown is the fourth Massachusetts town in AARP’s Livability Index for small cities, and by this time, tourists might be tempted to not just explore but reside in the Bay State. It neighbors Belmont, so tourists can expect a rich past when visiting Watertown. It has the historic Mount Auburn Cemetery, the country's first “rural” landscape burial ground, where peace comes easy. History buffs will also have a fun learning experience in the city’s historic homes, the museum of Gore Place, and a former major arsenal. It’s easy to make a splash in Watertown.
1 St. Louis Park, Minnesota
St. Louis Park takes the crown as the most livable small city in the U.S., at least for 2022. Dubbed “Minnesota’s sweet spot,” this destination is proud of its cultural attractions and outdoor spots. For the previous, there’s the Pavek Museum, which houses some of the world’s “finest collection of antique radio, television, and broadcast equipment.” For the latter, there’s the pristine Bass Lake Preserve, the varied General Mills Nature Preserve, and the hiking spot of Westwood Hills Nature Center. Combining Mother Nature and modernity, only St. Louis Park provides that without a sweat.