Cities are centers of innovation, beehives of social activity, hotbeds of creativity, and among the world’s most fascinating places to visit. And cities are growing; by 2030 the United Nations estimates that 61 percent of the world’s population will be living in urban areas. We launched our Smart Cities hub to celebrate sustainable cities around the world where visionary locals and savvy civic leaders have joined forces to create communities that everyone can love. At National Geographic, we know that the best destinations are ones where both locals and visitors feel at home. Travel with us to a few of our favorite cities and discover the surprising secrets of the world’s most progressive places.