Zacatecas, built into the slopes of a narrow ravine in north-central Mexico, is a city with a deep mining past and a striking skyline. The historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its pink cantera stone buildings, narrow alleys, and impressive baroque facades. The Cathedral Basilica of Zacatecas, completed in 1752, stands as one of the most detailed examples of Mexican baroque architecture, with hundreds of carved figures covering its sandstone exterior.

Grand Rapids sits along the Grand River in western Michigan, shaped by industry, reform, and a strong civic culture.

Visitors to this breathtaking and romantic Cyclades archipelago will gaze at the whitewashed cubiform houses sitting cliffside and hovering over the water.

Toledo, high above the Tagus River in central Spain, is a city where layers of history are visible around every corner. For centuries it was an important Roman settlement, a Visigothic capital, and later a stronghold during the medieval Christian reconquest, before becoming the seat of royal power and a crossroads of cultures. Because of this long span of stories and architectural richness, the whole old town has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This small yet charming city in Alaska's panhandle is a throwback to the gold rush era. Skagway is a well-preserved part of Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park.