One thing we often do is pay for a bus tour of a new city. It's usually pretty reasonable, and you get a quick overview, and may spot places you want to spend more time later. we sort of use cruises this way in Europe, you get a few hours in a city somewhere and might decide you want to return (or not) and spend more time later.
I've had folks tell me they've been to Atlanta, and upon questioning, it turns out they changed planes here. yay.
I often find interest in "out of the way" kitchy places that are unassuming but interesting.
