Adventure areas - Despite all the utilitarian purposes of cities, there are still many treacherous places within their darker, more-confined districts. While exploring these areas, you could very likely come across long-lost family catacombs, ancient sewers, or perhaps a secret society bent on rekindling arcane, malevolent powers. Lots of shopping - Cities abound with merchants and shops that will cater to your every need. Weaponsmiths, armorers, alchemists, and master trainers are just a few of the many tradesmen you'll encounter within each city's fortified walls.

Themed districts - Cities are divided into sections that are based on the NPCs, buildings, and shops found in those sections. For example, in Stormwind players can find the Mage's District, Trade District, Warrior District, Religious District, and many more. Each district is distinct from the others, so after some exploration, you will begin to know which district you're in just by your immediate surroundings. Class headquarters - Many of the character classes make their bases of operations in cities. These central locations are good places to go to train your character and to occasionally pick up new quests or missions.

Auction Houses - Sell your items or search for items for sale via the automated auction house. Auctioneer NPCs can be found in in Orgrimmar, Undercity, and Thunder Bluff for Horde player-created auctions and are a part of the same Auction House. Alliance players will find Auction Houses in Ironforge, Stormwind City, and Darnassus. Some non-faction based Auction Houses are located in Tanaris, Everlook, and Booty Bay.