Fargo, North Dakota

If you’re looking for cool in the Midwest, you can find it in Fargo—that is, if you’d like to get a little weird. The town has marketed itself as “North of Normal,” and who can resist a bit of quirkiness? If placing on Fortune’s list a second time is any indication, not many people can.

The city has a bit of an artsy feel, thanks in part to the historic Fargo Theatre and Plains Art Museum. Downtown Fargo isn’t lacking in food and drink, with restaurants and craft breweries lining its streets. And you might just make new friends, considering how friendly the city is.

Running through Fargo (and the border of Minnesota) is the Red River, an attractive spot for kayaking in the summer and ice fishing in winter. Residents can further get their fill of nature at the Red River Zoo, which cares for some of the world’s rarest cold-climate species.

Fargo is also home to the largest hospital in North Dakota, Sanford Medical Center. It’s a Level I trauma center, the only one in the state, providing quality health care to patients and contributing to Fargo’s diverse job market. The area’s other leading employment sectors include technology, education, and agriculture.