Setting it apart from many Midwest metros, Ohio’s capital and largest city is one of America’s fastest-growing, a forward-thinking economic powerhouse that’s also home to one of the largest college campuses, Ohio State University. And Buckeye football isn’t the university’s only contribution to local culture: with more OSU graduates deciding to stay in town, Columbus is an emerging tech mecca with a thriving arts scene. Ohio’s largest city earned a decent #31 ranking for Prosperity, thanks to low unemployment and a well-rounded economy buoyed by a growing number of startups, as well as top employer Ohio State and Fortune 500s like Nationwide Insurance and L Brands. So what do locals do when they’re not working? The first Saturday of the month means Gallery Hop, when galleries are open late and performers and artists hit the streets of Columbus’ Short North Arts District. For a less traditional take on the arts, Otherworld—a 32,000-square-foot warehouse packed with immersive installations created by more than 40 artists. All of it adds up to a respectable #36 ranking for Culture.