Coolest Suburbs Worth a Visit

Alameda, CA

Because of its geographic isolation—an island just off Oakland, in San Francisco Bay—and a strict 25 mph speed limit, life here hums at a slow pace. The town is filled with large Victorian homes, pristine beaches, and wonderful views of the San Francisco Bay Bridge. Dozens of niche restaurants and shops—as well as the beautifully restored Alameda Theatre—are located along Park Street.

See: Try your hand at a game of Mystic Marvel or Daisy May, just two of the classic pinball games found at the nostalgic Pacific Pinball Museum.

Taste: Bay Area residents know all about Forbidden Island and its fresh spin on the classic 1960s tiki bar. Ask one of the smart (and proudly tattooed) mixologists for a China Clipper, a concoction of five secret spices, fresh lemon juice, and rum.