I think there's a big schism between cities and towns that have or used to have character and those that don't when it comes to retail. One reason NYC or SF are

I think there's a big schism between cities and towns that have or used to have character and those that don't when it comes to retail. One reason NYC or SF are cool (though perhaps less so now), is that there are tons of interesting, well-curated, thoughtfully sourced shops with stuff to discover and explore. I agree with you completely if we're talking about a Target in suburban Houston, but going to a handmade card store in NYC, or a rare books store in Charleston, or weird candy store in SF can all be fun exploratory experiences. I drop into the fancy grocery store nearby to look around and find ingredients I've never heard of, despite doing 90% of my grocery shopping online with delivery, because it's a fun way to get outside my comfort zone. The easy availability of places/stores that allow me opportunities to explore and be excited about new things is perhaps the thing I value most about living in NYC.