There is no universal definition of “hip.” For some, it’s hipster — that ironic cool that has been perfected by the likes of Brooklyn and Portland. For others, it’s trendy and fashion forward, showing off the latest, chicest clubs, restaurants, and boutiques, a la Miami or LA. And while big cities are often known for being hip, smaller cities get passed over, but that shouldn’t be the case. To find the 10 hippest mid-sized cities, we grabbed the U.S. cities with ranks #100-900 by population according to census data and sorted them by the preferences of our Trendsters Tribe. They’re smaller, sure, but each celebrate cool in their own unique way.
#1. Palm Springs, CA
Why it’s hip: Once upon a time, Palm Springs was known for being a retirement haven where the post-employment crowd liked to spend their vacations and golden years. Boy, has that changed. While it’s still Baby Boomer-friendly, it’s now also LGBT-friendly, foodie-friendly, mircrobrew-friendly, and millennial-friendly.
Where to go: You can get a taste of the new and trendy at many stay, eat, and play options in the city. For hotels, try the Colony Palms. Arrive, The Riviera, Villa Royale, Hard Rock Hotel or The Avalon. Get some shopping done at Wil Stiles, Trina Turk Boutique, Ted Casablanca (and SO many more along Palm Canyon Drive), and take in a little modern culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum (photo above.) For fancy cocktails and late-night eats, try Tropicale, Bootlegger Tiki, 849, TRIO, Birba, Mr. Lyons & Spencers At The Tennis Club.