I'll hold up the twin cities as a more affordable place with lots of people. In summer, it's very bike friendly. There's a bunch of lakes throughout Minneapolis

I'll hold up the twin cities as a more affordable place with lots of people. In summer, it's very bike friendly. There's a bunch of lakes throughout Minneapolis and St. Paul. Mill City Museum is one of the best I've ever been too, and there's a ton of theatre all around. Sure, winter gets cold, but it's easier to handle on the cities where downtowns have pedestrian subways, and the city clears the snow. Plus there are events like Luminary Loppet. Sure, the summer is humid, but lots of folks have basements. And offices have AC. And the lakes are still cold once you get more than two feet down. The only things it really needs are mountains and ocean nearby. Even then, it's got some excellent areas nearby