Forbes has ranked the hippest neighborhoods in the United States. By looking at key factors like which neighborhoods are home to people with artistic jobs, a large concentration of farmers’ markets and food trucks, and high walkability scores, the magazine’s research turned up some of the most interesting spots to hang out in the country.
[find-an-apartment]The top three they found, in order, are:
• Silver Lake in Los Angeles, Calif.
• The Mission District in San Francisco, Calif.
• Williamsburg, Brooklyn, N.Y.
But what about the other hip hangouts from the 20 places featured? Here are five of our faves.
#5 Pearl District, Portland, Ore.
Portland, Ore., has always enjoyed a hipster vibe, but over the years, the Pearl District has transitioned from abandoned warehouses to a quadrant packed with coffeehouses, restaurants, hotels, art galleries and studios. It’s walking distance to the Portland Farmer’s Market and is home to some of the most colorful places to spend time with friends. Hip hangouts include bustling brewpubs like BridgePort Brewpub, Deschutes Brewery & Public House and Rogue Ales Distillery & Public House.
#10 Warehouse District, New Orleans, La.
The Warehouse District is the newest place to see and be seen in New Orleans, La. This industrial area near the river is where famous chef Emeril Lagasse opened his first restaurant. The ‘hood continues to get hipper with unique Southern eateries like Cochon and spots like Spun Cafe at the Contemporary Arts Center. Plus, if you get tired of Zydeco music, you can head to the Howlin’ Wolf and rock out to some hardcore hipster bands.
#12 North Loop, Minneapolis, Minn.
Again, this former warehouse district (see a pattern here?) can now be called the coolest neighborhood in Minneapolis, Minn. Plus, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The North Loop warehouses have been converted to apartments, restaurants and boutiques, but this hip hangout also boasts some great outdoor space. The James I. Rice Parkway runs along the river with great bike trails that wind through the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway.
#14 Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, Pa.
Philadelphia has its fair share of hip neighborhoods, but Northern Liberties was the only one that made the list of the hippest in the United States. Impressive! NoLibs got one of the highest walkability scores, and it’s central to some serious nightlife. The Piazza at Schmidts always has something going on, be it music, shopping, or sports. Plus, the neighborhood hosts festivals and events nearly every week. Once you’ve had your fill of outdoor entertainment, roll on over to North Bowl and grab a lane with your pals.
#15 Hampden, Baltimore, Md.
If you live in Baltimore and are trying to find the “scene” in your city, head to the Hampden neighborhood. This kitschy, cool spot was made famous by inspiring the settings of several John Waters films. It’s the kind of place where everyone calls you “hon” — so much so, they even started their own Honfest. Imagine beehive hairdos, cat’s eye glasses and Baltimore’s Best Hon Pageant. Super hip.
Photo credit: Shutterstock / Andrew Zarivny