Rochester, New York
Rank: 32
Population: 213,178

Rochester may be closely identified with the rust belt towns of the Erie Canal, but it still boasts a full slate of events to keep residents busy, from Oktoberfest celebrations to its annual Fringe festival over five days in September. History buffs can walk the War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Garden Trail and relive dreams of Canadian conquest.

Bars: 78
Restaurants: 502
Museums: 14
Libraries: 17
Pro sports teams: 3
Park acres per 1,000 residents: 7
Colleges: 4
Percent with graduate degree: 7.8
Median household income: $37,111
Percent unemployed: 8.4