America's 10 Most Exciting Mid Size Cities

No. 8 (tie): Grand Rapids, Mich.

Grand Rapids is a name we honestly didn't expect to see up here in the top 10, but the data don't lie. The second-largest city in Michigan, it did best in nightlife (14th overall) and non-fast food dining (18th).

For that first category, the city has places like The HopCat and Founders Brewing to thank; there's one such place for every 771 residents. As for that dining rank, Grand Rapids has spots like Yesterdog or Stella's Lounge to save you from mass-produced fare. Grand Rapids even did great for active life options and music venues, both of which it ranked 25th in.

MSN - America's 10 Most Exciting Mid Size Cities