Sure, San Francisco, Austin, and Portland might be hot spots to visit, but there’s something to be said for lesser known cities too. Here are four traveler favorites that might not be the most well-known, but receive rave traveler reviews time and time again. Why not give one a shot for your next travel contract?
1. Reno, NV — Population: 233,294 — When most people think of Nevada they automatically think Vegas, but the Biggest Little City in the World, Reno, is a fan favorite for travelers. With loads of outdoor activities (the Reno / Tahoe area has more ski and snowboard resorts than any other part of the country) and night-life galore, you will never be bored. Plan it out so you can be there in December when the Reno Santa Crawl takes place. It’s a giant party where people go from bar to bar dressed in holiday costumes. Proceeds from the event got to charity.
2. Rapid City, SD — Population: 70,000 — Set along the eastern slopes of the Black Hills, Rapid City is the second largest city in South Dakota. Its location next to the Black Hills makes for some gorgeous views, especially with all the trees changing colors in the fall. Residents and visitors alike enjoy cruising through the mountain terrain. Bring a camera so you can snap some photos of the buffalos and Mount Rushmore, which is only 30 minutes from the city center. Also, be sure to check out the year-round events at Main Street Square in the heart of downtown Rapid City. It’s also home to an outdoor ice-skating rink that’s larger than Rockefeller Center!
3. Albuquerque, NM — Population: 556,495 — If you’re looking for gorgeous fall weather and a mild winter, head to Albuquerque. They see average temperatures in the 60s to 80s September through November and averages in the low 50s December through February. Relax in one of the area’s award winning spas (the Tamaya Mist Spa just outside the city is one of Travel + Leisure’s Top 25 Hotel Spas) or soak in some history at one of the area’s many museums and historic centers. Locals say Albuquerque is awesome because of the great Mexican food, the “dog-friendliness,” and the beautiful mountain views. What’s not to love?
4. Lincoln, NE — Population: 268,800 — Fall is one of the best times to visit Nebraska’s capital city. Mild temperatures and changing leaves make fall a great time to take advantage of Lincoln’s parks and extensive trail system. They have more than 130 miles of trails in the city! Plus, fall means football. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Cornhuskers have one of the best college football fan bases in the country which means game days are a blast. If you’re looking for fall activities, check out one of the many orchards in the area or drive 30 minutes to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch – a local favorite for fall festivities like hay-rack rides and pumpkin picking. When winter hits, the outdoor ice-skating rink at the Railyard in Lincoln’s Historic Haymarket is a fun way to get in some exercise before trying out one of the area’s awesome ethnic restaurants.
Want to lock down an assignment in one of these areas for your next travel contract or interested in learning about more destinations that are off the beaten path? Call Aureus Medical today to get started!
Miranda Milovich is a recruiter in Aureus Medical’s Nursing Division. When she isn’t helping nurses find new jobs and travel contracts she likes to cook, spend time with friends and family, and do lots of traveling herself. Her favorite things include her dog Sammy, Mexican food, and finding good deals at happy hour.
Interested in psychiatric nursing positions. Thanks
I had a fantastic experience in Jetmore, KS. Great people, very nice hospital with top notch equipment in the laboratory. And only 25 miles from Dodge City where there is a tremendous amount of Old West history to explore.