The Best Thing About My City

Writers across the country pick their favorite places

From MSN City Guides

What’s the best thing about any of the places we call home? There’s no one right answer, of course—it’s personal, it’s subjective, and it’s impossible to boil down to just one “best” spot in town. Right?

That didn’t stop us from trying. MSN City Guides asked writers across the country to pick their favorite spots in 26 cities, and we’ve listed their answers below. We left the question wide open, and the places that people picked reflect that: Restaurants, bookstores, parks, downtown streets and even the whole Rocky Mountains made the list.

We’re not saying these are THE best, but we wanted to start the conversation. Look through the list below, then weigh in with your own personal choice on our message boards.

Anaheim: Downtown Disney
Even with the granddaddy of theme parks looming right next door, my favorite part of Anaheim is Downtown Disney. It’s got unusual shops, casual and fine dining, movies, an ESPN Sports Center—and no admission price. You don’t have to stand in line to satisfy a craving for Disney nostalgia. For that sweet old feeling—infused with contemporary flair—visit Disney Vault 28 and World of Disney. Indulge your senses at Marceline’s Confectionery (candy made on the spot) and Basin (artisan bath luxuries, including the famous Bath Bomb). Enjoy live music a la New Orleans at Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen or the sounds of R&B, reggae, hip-hop and Latin at House of Blues—and don’t miss the Sunday Gospel Brunch.
—Ondine Kuraoka

Atlanta: Atlanta Botanical Garden
Mirroring the centuries-old tradition of sculpture gardens, art and nature are inseparable at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Each year, the garden’s fragrant flowers and lush plants intermingle with the larger-than-life works of internationally renowned artists, from Dale Chihuly’s stunning glass sculptures to Niki de Saint Phalle’s dancing Nanas.

As the mother of two active preschoolers, I know how hard it can be to introduce children to art, especially when it requires them to stay quiet and look but not touch. The Atlanta Botanical Garden breaks those rules, giving them the chance to freely explore the world around them while they, perhaps, contemplate a piece of art.
—Jennifer Maciejewski

Austin: Bob Bullock Texas State Museum
Texans are proud of their heritage. But Austin’s Bob Bullock, a former state lieutenant governor, loved Texas history like no other. Like a good Texan, he dreamed big. He envisioned a museum that would tell the entire story of Texas. Today, the stone-carved lettering, “THE STORY OF TEXAS,” greets visitors to the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum.

Texas history is rambunctious. It’s made for the museum's multimedia presentations, interactive stations, mini-theaters, and IMAX theaters. Artifacts abound. Whether you're a local, a visiting Texan, or one of many streaming visitors from around the world, Austin's Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum tells the tale and tells it well. Look for the big, 10-ton, 33-foot Lone Star in the front plaza.
—Vikk Simmons