Asheville celebrates its bohemian spirit and artsy roots year-round, with cultural events, festivals and good times that rank first in the country for small cities. Dig down into our Programming category and this mountain gem boasts some stellar nightlife (#1) and shopping (#2). Unsurprisingly, the after-hours scene is a launching pad for musicians, offering what artists of all ages crave in a city: affordability, local beer and good eats. Live music born of the region’s bluegrass roots harmonizes with new talent and innovative sounds to the tune of almost $400 million in the region’s tourism economy, according to the Economic Development Coalition. Of course, with the COVID-19 outbreak, the economic shortfall for this year will be staggering. Asheville continues its ascent in the Museum category with a #2 finish, behind only Santa Fe. Case in point: the recent reopening of the Asheville Art Museum, which features education facilities, an art library, a lecture and performance space, a new Art PLAYce for families and children and the addition of a rooftop sculpture terrace and café.