These 10 utopian havens are located in different regions of the U.S. and rated by such factors as school systems, employment opportunities and just plain "gut" reactions. From the small, pristine village to the vibrant metropolis, all 10 towns are exciting, alive and full of possibility.
#10
Salida, Colorado — an undiscovered jewel southwest of Denver and a great arts town near several amazing ski resorts.
#9
Jupiter, Florida — a tropical paradise about an hour north of Miami. It boasts some of the best schools in Florida (and some of the best fishing in America).
#8
Saratoga Springs, New York — winner of an award for the best "Main Street" in the country and home of one of the most beautiful horse racing tracks ever built.
#7
Seattle, Washington — here you'll find coastline, culture, computer software, and waterfront ambience unrivaled for a major city.
#6
Sedona, Arizona — backdrop for Hollywood westerns, with redrock formations that seem to be sculpted by a higher power.
#5
Santa Barbara, California — Spanish flavor with a laid-back lifestyle and exquisite houses. The beaches and marine activities are among the best on the Pacific coast.
#4
Portland, Maine — the essence of New England, with craggy coast, great food and some of the best public schools anywhere in the country.
#3
Austin, Texas — the live music capital of the world. The home of creativity and casual style, and the President happens to love it, too.
#2
Grand Marais, Minnesota — a tiny artist's haven on the shores of the Great Lakes.
#1
Downtown New York City, NY — the most electric, vibrant, proud place anywhere in the country right now. The culture, the ethnic mix, the cuisine, the revitalized harbor along the Hudson River — New York can't be beat. Former Mayor Ed Koch appears in this segment to tell the nation why New Yorkers stand tall and still rave about the power of "Downtown."
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