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.
Omaha
Rising out of the prairies and cornfields of the heartland, Omaha serves as a cultural wellspring and economic powerhouse for the region. Downtown has seen a lot of development in recent years, and now serves up a huge selection of trendy shopping, dining, and entertainment, particularly around the Old Market; the Blackstone neighborhood has also emerged as a new hotspot for adventurous restauranteurs and hip nightlife. The robust live music scene in Omaha is one of the city’s worst-kept secrets, with national publications singing the praises of popular venues like the Waiting Room and the annual Maha Music Festival at Stinson Park. Omaha is serious about college sports – the University of Nebraska’s Cornhuskers are hometown heroes, and the city is the longtime home to the College World Series every summer. For more relaxing downtime, soak in views of the Missouri River (and wave to Council Bluffs, Iowa) from Heartland of America Park, or pack up your picnic basket and head over to Standing Bear reservoir.
Grand Junction
Nestled in the stunning Grand Valley region of Colorado, Grand Junction provides breathtaking landscapes featuring striking contrasts from rugged canyons to lush vineyards. The vibrant downtown area is filled with dozens of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, making it a lively spot for residents. For those who love the outdoors, the city provides ample recreational opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Some must-visit destinations include the Grand Mesa, the Colorado National Monument, and Rattlesnake Arches. You’ll find a variety of rentals in Grand Junction, ranging from charming apartments in historic neighborhoods to contemporary condos near the bustling heart of the city. Students enjoy easy access to Colorado Mesa University, while shoppers appreciate the summer Farmer’s Market. Numerous festivals and events celebrate the area’s history. The cityscape is dotted with green spaces and pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore and enjoy year-round activities. With its mix of scenic beauty, engaging community events, and varied living options, Grand Junction is a gorgeous place to live.
