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Methodology -

A recent study reviewed data on over 48,000 establishments from Google Places. Cities were then ranked based on the number of cultural establishments including Google search results for art, botanical gardens, cultural centers, galleries, historical sites, libraries, museums, music venues, and performing arts theaters per 100,000 residents. Only cities with between 90,000 and 250,000 residents and at least eight of the nine cultural establishment types were included in the analysis. Now let's look at the top 30 list that resulted. 

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30. Denton, TX -

Population: 148,146
Cultural sites: 98

Denton, TX may show up last on our list but fear not, for it still has excellent cultural sites to share! Home to the courthouse-on-the-square museum, a classic 19th-century courthouse, reflecting Denton's rich history as well as the University of North Texas College of Music, Denton is a great place to visit.

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29. Dearborn, MI -

Population: 109,976
Cultural sites: 99

In Dearborn, you’ll find two cultural gems. First, there is the Henry Ford Museum, a huge indoor and outdoor history museum showcasing American innovation. Second, there is the Greenfield Village, a history museum where visitors can experience life in America during different historical periods.

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28. Albany, NY -

Population: 97,478
Cultural sites: 103

What good list is complete without an appearance by a city in New York? In Albany, you’ll find the Albany Institute of History & Art - one of the oldest museums in the United States, showcasing regional art and history.

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27. Ann Arbor, MI -

Population: 121,093
Cultural sites: 110

Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan Museum of Art which is one of the largest university art museums in the country. Additionally, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum can be found in Ann Arbor 

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26. Providence, RI -

Population: 190,934
Cultural sites: 111 

In Providence, there’s the Rhode Island School of Design Museum where a vast collection of art and design works are housed. Additionally, one of the oldest zoos in the country, the Roger Williams Park Zoo, can be found here.

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25. Trenton, NJ -

Population: 90,055
Cultural sites: 112 

Trenton has cultural finds such as the New Jersey State Museum which features collections in natural history, archaeology, and fine arts and the Old Barracks Museum, a historical site from the American Revolutionary War that offers guided tours as well as reenactments.

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24. Columbia, MO -

Population: 126,172
Cultural sites: 116 

In Columbia, you’ll discover two great cultural staples: the Museum of Art and Archaeology, where an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts from around the world lives, as well as the Blue Note: a historic music venue hosting a variety of live performances from different genres. Columbia is chock-full of fun and interesting places to visit.

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23. Wilmington, NC -

Population: 116,933
Cultural sites: 118

Wilmington has lots to offer. It's home to the Battleship North Carolina, a WWII Battleship turned museum. You can also visit the historic Airlie Gardens which offer walking trails and art installations. Additionally, there is the Bellamy Mansion Museum, a preserved antebellum mansion showcasing the architecture and history of the pre-Civil War South.

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22. Richmond, VA -

Population: 227,171
Cultural sites: 118

Home to one of the largest art museums in the US—the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts—Richmond boasts global collections that art enthusiasts will definitely adore. The city also offers the American Civil War Museum, providing deep insights into the Civil War through exhibits and artifacts.

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21. Roswell, GA -

Population: 92,770
Cultural sites: 122

Roswell invites visitors to explore the Roswell Historic District, featuring beautifully preserved homes and buildings from the 19th century that capture the essence of Southern history. Additionally, Bulloch Hall offers a glimpse into antebellum history, while the Chattahoochee Nature Center provides environmental insight.

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20. Columbia, SC -

Population: 136,754
Cultural sites: 124

Columbia is home to the South Carolina State Museum, a large institution with exhibits on history, science, technology, and art, perfect for a day of exploration. Visitors can also enjoy the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, a popular zoo and botanical garden with diverse animal and plant collections.

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19. Concord, NC -

Population: 105,335
Cultural sites: 124

Concord boasts cultural spaces such as the Sea Life Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, an interactive aquarium with a variety of marine life exhibits. Additionally, there is the Cabarrus County Courthouse, a historic courthouse showcasing classical architectural design.

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18. Eugene, OR -

Population: 176,755
Cultural sites: 124

Eugene has two key cultural sites One is the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art which features a diverse collection of American, European, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese art. The other is the Museum of Natural and Cultural History that showcases Oregon's natural and cultural history through engaging exhibits.

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17. New Haven, CT -

Population: 135,736
Cultural sites: 136

Renowned for being home to Yale University, New Haven also has the following cultural spaces. The Yale University Art Gallery is celebrated for its comprehensive collections of art from all over the world. The Yale Center for British Art, which houses the largest collection of British art outside the United Kingdom, and East Rock Park, a popular park with scenic views and historical landmarks.

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16. Salt Lake City, UT -

Population: 201,269
Cultural sites: 136

Salt Lake City is no stranger to culture. In fact, it boasts the following: Temple Square which is known as a historic and cultural centerpiece of the city; The Utah Museum of Fine Arts, a major cultural resource offering diverse art collections and educational programs; and the Natural History Museum of Utah which displays the natural history of the region mixed with interactive exhibits and research.

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15. Costa Mesa, CA -

Population: 111,490
Cultural sites: 141

Home to the South Coast Repertory, known for its high-quality productions and new works, Costa Mesa offers a rich cultural experience. Additionally, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts serves as a venue hosting top performances in theater, dance, and music, making it a hub for performing arts enthusiasts.

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14. Boulder, CO -

Population: 106,598
Cultural sites: 142

Chautauqua Park in Boulder is a must-see, offering historic buildings, scenic trails, and engaging cultural programs that reflect the area's heritage. The Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art presents innovative contemporary art exhibitions and public programs, making it a huge part of the local arts scene.

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13. New Braunfels, TX -

Population: 92,993
Cultural sites: 144

New Braunfels boasts the Gruene Historic District, where visitors can explore well-preserved buildings, unique shops, and the famous Gruene Hall music venue. Landa Park offers a picturesque setting with walking trails, paddle boats, and picnic areas, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.

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12. Bellingham, WA -

Population: 91,353
Cultural sites: 150

In Bellingham, you’ll find the Whatcom Museum, a cultural center with a focus on art, nature, and Northwest history. There is also the Fairhaven Historic District that offers charming streets, unique shops, and historical buildings. Finally, for all your electricity interests, Bellingham has the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention which features interactive exhibits on the history of electricity and radio.

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11. Bend, OR -

Population: 99,442
Cultural sites: 151

Whether you're more into the natural and cultural history of the high desert region (in which case see the High Desert Museum) or more of an outdoor recreation, scenic views, and wildlife person (see the Deschutes National Forest), Bend, Oregon is the place for you.

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10. Savannah, GA -

Population: 147,583
Cultural sites: 162

In Savannah, visitors from near and far will find the charm of the city undeniable and love being able to visit Forsyth Park. The large public park is known for its beautiful fountain and green spaces. Additionally, the Savannah Historic District features well-preserved historic buildings and cobblestone streets.

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9. Ventura, CA -

Population: 110,358
Cultural sites: 162

Ventura, CA gives us lots of diversity and boasts the Mission San Buenaventura, a historic Spanish mission with beautiful architecture and gardens. There's also the Ventura Botanical Gardens which features a diverse collection of plants and scenic hiking trails.

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8. Berkeley, CA -

Population: 121,385
Cultural sites: 165

In Berkeley, you’ll find the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive which offers contemporary and historical art exhibits as well as film screenings. It’s also home to the University of California, which is known for its prestigious academic programs and beautiful campus.

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7. Cambridge, MA -

Population: 117,962
Cultural sites: 167

Cambridge is home to the world-famous Harvard University, which features historic buildings and museums. The fun doesn’t stop there, though! Cambridge is also home to the MIT Museum which showcases the scientific and technological innovations of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

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6. Orem, UT -

Population: 97,100
Cultural sites: 172

The SCERA Center for the Arts offers a dynamic blend of live theater performances, movies, and art classes, making it a cultural cornerstone for the community. Utah Valley University enriches the city with its diverse cultural and educational programs, featuring engaging performances and exhibits that cater to all interests.

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5. Provo, UT -

Population: 114,400
Cultural sites: 178

Brigham Young University Museum of Art in Provo stands as one of the largest and most visited art museums in the Mountain West, offering an impressive collection that appeals to art enthusiasts of all kinds. Additionally, the Provo City Center Temple, a beautifully restored historical building, serves as both a religious site and an architectural marvel, drawing visitors with its beauty and spiritual significance.

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4. Santa Monica, CA -

Population: 92,168
Cultural sites: 189

Santa Monica thrives as a vibrant arts hub, with over 170 murals adorning its streets and numerous galleries showcasing diverse artworks. Bergamot Station, a former railroad station complex, now hosts around 30 art galleries, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers seeking a rich cultural experience.

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3. Charleston, SC -

Population: 149,960
Cultural sites: 205

Within Charleston there exists the Battery and White Point Garden offering scenic views along a historic defensive seawall and promenade, making it a picturesque spot for visitors. Fort Sumter National Monument, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired, offers a profound historical experience for visitors interested in American history.

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2. Pasadena, CA -

Population: 137,554
Cultural sites: 209

Pasadena is home to the Norton Simon Museum which is renowned for its impressive collection of European and Asian art, making it a cultural treasure for art aficionados. The Huntington Library, art museum, and botanical gardens provide a rich blend of rare books, beautiful artworks, and expansive gardens, offering a holistic educational experience.

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1. Asheville, NC -

Population: 93,695
Cultural sites: 252

At the top of our list sits Asheville, North Carolina! Home to America’s largest house, the Biltmore Estate, and offering breathtaking scenic drives and hiking opportunities at the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville is sure to please any visitor.

Sources: (Preply) (Tripadvisor)

See also: The world's top places to visit in 2024

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