Wichita
Although fairly isolated on the prairies of Kansas, Wichita is a thriving cultural and economic hub for the region, with all the energy and excitement you’d expect from a city of its size. Much of the artistic and cultural action can be found in Old Town, the former warehouse district whose refurbished historic buildings now house a collective of hip and trendy shops, galleries, performance venues, cafes, and bars. The calendar is packed with special events in Wichita, from regular happenings like the popular farmers’ market, to massive community celebrations like the Wichita River Festival, to more niche events like the Tallgrass Film Festival in the fall. Aviation events are especially popular, with exhibitions like the Wichita Flight Festival and the McConnell Air Force Base Open House an Airshow earning the city its nickname: the Air Capital of the World.
Saint Louis
Stretched along the Mississippi River, Saint Louis is the second most populous city in Missouri. Regarded as the Gateway to the West, Saint Louis was the starting point of Lewis and Clark’s infamous expedition. Saint Louis’ most iconic landmark, the Gateway Arch, is a memorial celebrating the nation’s westward expansion. In addition to its rich history, Saint Louis offers residents access to exceptional amenities and culture. An apartment in Saint Louis affords you the opportunity to climb sculptures composed of reclaimed building materials at the one-of-a-kind City Museum, or watch the Cardinals play ball at Busch Stadium. Hit the town and catch a performance at the Fabulous Fox, or indulge in some retail therapy at the massive Saint Louis Outlet Mall. There’s incredible architecture to admire in the Washington Avenue Historic District, or you could experience the flora and fauna on display at the Saint Louis Zoo and Missouri Botanical Garden. Convenient Interstates make exploring the Saint Louis area and the national forests to the south a breeze.
Grand Rapids
The second largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids rests on the Grand River, about 30 miles east of Lake Michigan. Formerly known as the Furniture City, Grand Rapids is now nicknamed the River City as well as Beer City USA for its riverside locale and proximity to 40 craft breweries. Grand Rapids is also the hometown of former United States President Gerald Ford. Fans of the 38th president can learn more about his life and impact on American history at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum. Notable as an artistic haven, Grand Rapids hosts the annual ArtPrize competition, a 19-day affair drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city and featuring artwork all throughout Downtown Grand Rapids. Frederik Meijer Gardens exhibits an expansive variety of sculptures and gardens both indoors and outdoors. Meyer May House is revered as one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpieces. Located within an hour’s drive of Kalamazoo and Lansing, Grand Rapids is convenient to major highways and Gerald R. Ford International Airport, making for simple travels and commutes.
