Beautiful but Underrated Cities to Visit Before They Become Tourist Hotspots

City Thirteen: The Architectural Marvel of Columbus, Indiana, USA

Columbus, Indiana, might look like any other quiet Midwestern town at first glance, but take a closer look and you’ll discover one of the most architecturally significant small cities in the United States. Often referred to as the “Athens of the Prairie,” Columbus boasts a remarkable collection of mid-century modern buildings designed by some of the most celebrated architects of the 20th century—including Eero Saarinen, I.M. Pei, César Pelli, and Robert Venturi. This architectural renaissance was largely fueled by the vision and philanthropy of J. Irwin Miller, who believed in the transformative power of good design. Through his foundation, he offered to pay architectural fees for public buildings if world-renowned architects were commissioned, a move that forever changed the city’s skyline. What makes Columbus especially unique is the way these bold, contemporary buildings are woven into the fabric of everyday life. Public schools, fire stations, banks, and churches all feature designs worthy of a gallery. The city offers guided tours through its Visitor Center, showcasing highlights like the Miller House and Garden—a modernist masterpiece of architecture and landscape design. Art lovers will also appreciate the city’s impressive collection of public sculptures, seamlessly blending civic functionality with artistic vision. For travelers seeking inspiration, Columbus proves that world-class design doesn’t have to be confined to major metropolises—it thrives in the heart of Indiana.