Asheville's biggest claim to fame is undoubtedly the Biltmore Estate, a legendary mansion that happens to be the largest home in the United States. But in recent years, downtown Asheville has become a draw in its own right as a hub for friendly creatives. There are a high number of studios and galleries where you can meet local artists and artisans (and shop their wares), plus a growing live music and performing arts scene.

Chattanooga isn't just a must-visit for foodies (although...). It also happens to be one of the friendliest cities in the South, with beautiful mountain views and fun activities for families, especially along the Riverwalk. It's also a great escape for outdoorsy types, with plenty of hiking and rock-climbing to get those endorphins pumping—keep it up, and you might find yourself as happy as the locals.

For the better part of the last century, Santa Fe has been irresistible to creative types (with Georgia O'Keeffe its most famous resident), drawn to its impressive natural landscapes and wide open spaces. It continues its artistic legacy today, with nearly 300 art galleries in the adobe buildings that line its streets. The friendly residents aren't just artsy, though—because the city attracts such a diverse range of people, you see it reflected in its dining scene and elsewhere. With an array of excellent chefs, Santa Fe is perhaps known foremost for its New Mexican cuisine, but you can find everything from Mediterranean to Kenyan restaurants.

Few cities in Virginia encapsulate the state’s motto—“Virginia is for lovers”—better than the southeastern town of Norfolk. The waterfront spot has long had an active LGBTQ+ community, as evinced by its annual Hampton Roads PrideFest, which has been held in some form for about 25 years. Norfolk’s proximity to the Chesapeake Bay gives us even more reasons to smile, like excellent seafood restaurants, and maritime museums and attractions. Traveling with kids? Be sure to stop by the Virginia Zoo, which offers workshops and seasonal activities (like a train ride with Santa!) among its wildlife exhibits.

As the main town in the scenic Jackson Hole valley, Jackson receives its fair share of adventurous travelers searching for great hikes and killer ski slopes. That makes for a fun, welcoming environment for sure, but you’ll find the appeal lies beyond the great outdoors. You could spend a whole day wandering around Jackson Town Square, topped off with a drink at the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. You can also see artwork by Georgia O’Keeffe and Andy Warhol (among others) at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. But we suspect the panoramic views of the Teton mountains—as well as the friendly citizens—are the real reason our readers keep coming back.

With a charming brick-lined Old Town, a beautiful waterfront, and convenient metro access for commuting to nearby Washington, D.C., the Northern Virginia city of Alexandria has long drawn young professionals and families seeking a more relaxed atmosphere than what you'd find in the nation's capital. Now the tourists are coming to get in on the fun, too, drawn to the great shopping, dining, and the arts community (check out the Torpedo Factory Art Center). A big plus: Alexandria is especially dog-friendly, which we think might contribute to people's overall sense of wellbeing.

The locals of Savannah are so fun and talkative you'd think it was an act. (It's not.) Folks are nearly always kind and welcoming, whether you’re in a restaurant or being greeted from someone’s balcony. The city feels eminently walkable and safe, and even has chilling ghost tours for when you want your visit to be a bit more...spirited. The laid-back atmosphere and squares dripping with Spanish moss, surrounded by historic homes with grand porches, makes for a perennially appealing setting.

In Key West, there's no ball drop for New Year's Eve. Instead, a drag queen is lowered off the balcony of the Bourbon St. Pub in a giant red high-heel shoe, and that's about all you need to know about how fun and inclusive the city is. The offbeat municipality has proclaimed itself a micro-nation called the Conch Republic, where people seize the day by hitting the high seas, beer in hand, or chowing down on signature seafood dishes at seemingly endless happy hours. The best part: Locals welcome any guests to partake in all the festivities with open arms.

Enjoy full-on Southern hospitality at its finest in Charleston, a small coastal city that has it all. Visitors often come for the history—such as the Civil War-era historic sites like Fort Sumter—and stay for the impressive culinary scene. Plus, with Kiawah Island and Isle of Palms just outside the city limits, the beach is only a short drive away. But the cherry on top is the friendly community, that always makes out-of-towners feel welcome. Planning a trip? Check out our Charleston city guide for our recommendations for where to go and what to do.

A first-time “friendliest cities” inductee, Greenville made quite the impression on travelers in 2020. It’s hard to say what exactly makes the locals here so happy. It may be the city’s burgeoning farm-to-table food movement, with restaurants like Jianna and Vault & Vator serving up fresh seafood and well-crafted cocktails. Or perhaps the craft beer scene is what keeps the pep in people’s steps. But let’s not forget about the abundant natural resources here, from the 32-acre Falls Park to the Swamp Rabbit bike trail. Whatever the reason, one thing’s for sure: You should definitely visit this South Carolina city on the brink of stardom.