Cottonwood, population 11,500, is located in central Arizona, where the scenery is pretty, the values conservative, and the outdoor activities aplenty. Cottonwood is ringed with mountains and buttes, and it either contains or is minutes from golfing, canyons, thousand-year-old dwellings and wineries. A historic downtown, well-maintained, caps off the charm of this community. Photo of historic downtown Cottonwood courtesy of…...

Grand Rapids is one of the most prosperous and dynamic cities in the State of Michigan. With a population just under 200,000 it has an exceptionally strong cultural presence for a mid-sized city. Grand Rapids is home to several private colleges including Calvin College, Acquinas College, as well as the Grand Rapids Community College. Nicknamed the "Furniture City", Grand Rapids…...

Des Moines is the state capital of Iowa and its largest city with a population just over 200,000.  It is located in the center of the state.  Drake University is a prestigious college in town, giving Des Moines the oomph of the arts and a youthful feel.  The city is very important in the insurance industry. Photo of Old Main…...

Situated on the northern California coast above San Francisco, Mendocino is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Golden State. This tiny town of just over 800 has a sizable artist population and great shopping. But most people come to see the unbelievable cliffs and rocks that tower over the raging Pacific Ocean below.  This old logging town…...