Hodags and Harleys, mummies and UFOs, race cars and rapids. They're all found in these six U.S. cities beginning with the letter "R" that you've never considered traveling to.
Rapids in Richmond, Virginia
Image via Flickr by Ron Cogswell
It's not just all about history in Richmond, Virginia. The city's Civil War heritage juxtaposes a present-day façade of shopping, dining attractions, and outdoor adventure. Feast on New Zealand fare at the pub-like Burger Bach. Enter a toy land treasure box at House of Mirth. Hardcore adventurers can explore the James River by kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or tube. To get to this awesome city, check out Richmond flights.
Did You Know? Richmond is the only U.S. city with Class III and IV rapids running through it.
Revelry in Rancho Cucamonga, California
From hiking and equestrian trails to NASCAR action at Auto Club Speedway, outdoor adventure awaits in Rancho Cucamonga throughout the year. And when you've had enough fun in the California sun, shop, eat, and explore Victoria Gardens Regional Town Center. More than 150 restaurants, entertainment venues, and shops call Rancho Cucamonga home.
Did You Know? Golf legend Arnold Palmer designed Empire Lakes Golf Course. Don't miss a tee time at this Par-72 Championship golf course.
Reading, Pennsylvania Resurgence
Image via Flickr by RiverRatt3
Reading, Pennsylvania, once a manufacturing mecca, is now enjoying an arts and culture resurgence. Witness glass blowing at GoggleWorks Center for the Arts. View a mummy at the Reading Public Museum. Experience world-class entertainers live at Santander Performing Arts Center. Plus, don't forget this Pennsylvania Dutch treat: fresh-baked pretzels from Reading Hard and Soft Pretzel Bakery.
Did You Know? Perched atop Mount Penn, Reading's signature, landmark 1908 Pagoda offers stunning views of the city.
Home to the Hodag—Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Image via Flickr by Lanyap
Ever hear of the hodag? Venture to Rhinelander, Wisconsin, and let Wisconsinites describe the folkloric, lizard-like woodland creature "inhabiting" the area. All hodags aside, though, Rhinelander makes a cheap family vacation destination. Biking, fishing, hiking, and swimming are among some of the leisure activities you'll enjoy. Catch Broadway musicals, live entertainment, and more courtesy of Tommy O's Playhouse.
Did You Know? According to local legend, Eugene Shepard first spotted the infamous hodag in 1893.
Rocking in Rockford, Illinois
A short distance from Chicago, Illinois, Rockford is one happening town. It's home to Kegel Harley-Davidson, scores of sporting venues, and even dinosaur Jane—see her at the Burpee Museum of Natural History. Rockford AirFest attracts more than 75,000 people to witness acrobatic feats from some top performing aerial artists.
Did You Know? Sukiya Living Magazine: The Journal of Japanese Gardening recently ranked the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford the top Japanese garden in North America.
Far Out Fun in Roswell, New Mexico
Infamous for its 1947 UFO incident, Roswell, New Mexico, is generally off the mainstream travel radar. Shrouded in history and mystery, Roswell offers more than intergalactic novelty shops alone. Art, music, and cultural attractions celebrate the region's Spanish-American heritage year round. Plus, boating and fishing at Bottomless Lakes State Park can't be missed.
Did You Know? Roswell boasts one of the world's largest mozzarella cheese manufacturing plants—Leprino Foods.
Regardless of which city you explore, don't forget to make time during your travels for two more Rs—rest and relaxation.
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