Best second cities worth visiting

Here are the biggest cities in the U.S. — and a second-city counterpart worth visiting:

■ Instead of New York City, consider Cape May, New Jersey: With the ocean on one side and grand Victorian homes on the other, sprawl out on the beach with expansive views.

■ Instead of Los Angeles, consider Joshua Tree, California. Go camping (or glamping) amid rugged rock formations.

■ Instead of Chicago, consider Chesterton, Indiana. Look for wildlife at Indiana Dunes National Park, which spans 1 5 miles of the Lake Michigan shoreline.

■ Instead of Houston, consider Conroe, Texas. Whether you prefer fishing boats or party boats, Conroe is known for its lake activities.

■ Instead of Phoenix, consider Flagstaff, Arizona. You might make a stop when driving Route 6 6 . Depending on the season, you may find snow.