In skyrim, which I have never even played half way through, I didn't know about going to the mountains and I kept wondering where the dragons were. Not that I really cared.

I've stopped at the point that I'm supposed to go to valentine detective agency. Am I missing something important?

Also, don't spoil me too much on this.

Is Diamond City the biggest town in the game? I thought there was a huge town with skyscraqers.

It's all up to you. Do what you want, when you want.

There's a point in the main storyline where you can finally take a breather and do sidequests to heart's content

And it's not the first point you may be thinking of. It will be very clear

I am just messing about and doing side quests for sanctuary/BOS lvl 18 and never been to diamond city. already have a rep with the diamond city radio guy. Does that guy have a gun to his head or what? It's like someone is forcing him to talk.

After taking care of Mr. Cereal, I'm taking a break to explore. Build my power base. Make Hangman's Aleey svck less.