These 28 Charming Small Towns Are Some Of The Coolest In America
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Sarah McCosham
Author
America is a country that’s comprised of 50 wonderful, wholly unique states — each with its own identity, culture, and history. Within each state, there are big cities and small towns, and it’s these different locales that form the fabric of the United States of America. While there’s a lot to be said for America’s major metropolises and their attractions, today we’re celebrating the small towns that really capture the spirit of what makes our country so very wonderful. These small towns are places that honor history while also moving forward, where local businesses are lauded and supported, where residents enjoy an amazing quality of life and have a tremendous sense of pride in where they live. These are 28 of the best small towns in the U.S., and each one offers beauty, history, and lasting memories.
Historic Small Towns in the U.S.
The first colony of the United States (as we know it) was founded at Jamestown, Virginia, in 1607. Our country’s history goes back much further, however. Whether you’re visiting an ancient settlement in the West or one of the Original 13, you’ll find that history is alive and well at these historic small towns in the U.S.
St. Augustine, FL, USA
- What It's Known For: Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest European settlement in the U.S.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Don't pass up the chance to visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Built by the Spanish in St. Augustine to defend Florida and the Atlantic trade route, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural intersections.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this Charming Cottage in St. Augustine Historic District.
St. Augustine often gets overshadowed by Florida's big names like Miami and Orlando, but this town really does deserve your attention.
The epitome of Old Florida, St. Augustine is a place of fascinating history and culture. Dating back 450 years, St. Augustine is one of the country's oldest and most historic cities, and places like Castillo de San Marcos National Monument celebrate its legacy:
The town, however, is more than just historical sites and museums; its downtown district along Aviles Street -- the oldest street in the country, in fact -- has amazing local shops, incredible restaurants, and top-rated distilleries, making for a wholly delightful experience.
Marietta, OH 45750, USA
- What It's Known For: Established in 1788, Marietta is the oldest city in the state of Ohio, and the first official American settlement territory north and west of the Ohio River.
- Must-Visit Attraction: In addition to lots of museums and historic sites, the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers afford plenty of opportunities for water recreation. There’s also a picturesque bike trail that follows those same rivers for over three miles.
- Where To Stay Nearby: You'll find lots of affordable accommodations in Marietta, Ohio, including rentals such as this cozy apartment in the heart of the downtown district.
The oldest town in Ohio, Marietta hails from 1788, predating Ohio's statehood, in fact. Nestled at the confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers, this quaint river town is full of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
It's a place with a proud, thriving community, too; Marietta's downtown district is home to numerous local retailers and restaurants and is a wonderful place to wander and explore. The town is also home to Marietta College, a private university with gorgeous architecture and incredible history all its own.
One of the most iconic buildings in Marietta is The Castle, which was built in 1855 and has been home to some of the town's most prominent families. This striking structure is historic, intriguing, and dashingly beautiful -- which sums up this charming Ohio town, too.
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Mooresville, AL 35649, USA
- What It's Known For: Mooresville is the first town incorporated by the Alabama Territorial Legislature, on November 16, 1818. Mooresville was also the primary filming location for Disney's "Tom and Huck."
- Must-Visit Attraction: The Mooresville Bicentennial Garden is an unexpected hidden gem in this charming and historic town.
- Where To Stay Nearby: While Mooresville is imbued in history, modern accommodations abound in the area, including the Whitehouse, a charming cottage just minutes from town.
Located in Limestone County, Alabama, Mooresville is small in size and stature, but big on history and culture.
Covering just 64 acres, Mooresville has just 60 residents, but it is easily the state's coolest small town. Established in 1818, Mooresville is one of Alabama's oldest towns, and the entire city is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Among these historic sites are several old homes, a post office, a beautiful church, and an inn and tavern, all of which you'll see when wandering through this delightful small town in Alabama.
Curious to explore this charming town? Here's a sneak peek at what to expect when you visit Mooresville, Alabama:
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Lexington, VA 24450, USA
- What It's Known For: Lexington is located in the center of Rockbridge County in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia. It is perhaps best-known as home to Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University.
- Must-Visit Attraction: The town is certainly chock-full of historic points of interest, including the Stonewall Jackson House, the George C. Marshall Museum at VMI, and Lee Chapel at Washington and Lee.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Majestic and inviting, nothing compares to a night at Whitewood Hall in Lexington, VA.
If you're looking to explore one of the most picturesque towns in the US, definitely head to Lexington, Virginia. This charming town is known for many things, from top-rated colleges and nationally acclaimed festivals to incredible dining and breathtaking scenery.
But it's Lexington's history that really defines this city. Civil War historians will find much to discover in Lexington: Stonewall Jackson's house, his gravesite, and the Robert E. Lee Chapel and Museum are all located within just a few-mile radius of one another in the downtown area of Lexington.
For a living history lesson in one of the most charming small towns in America, visit Lexington:
New Castle, DE 19720, USA
- What It's Known For: Founded by Dutch settlers in the 1650s, this riverside community was recognized for its historical significance in 1967, when its Colonial-era historic district was designated as a National Landmark.
- Must-Visit Attraction: History is alive and well in New Castle, Delaware, with places such as the Old New Castle Courthouse and the Delaware Historical Society’s Read House and Garden must-visit sites.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this charming Cape Cod.
Overlooking the Delaware River, New Castle is a historic, cobblestone-clad city that's as charming as it gets.
The town has an incredible historical district, with destinations like Immanuel on the Green, the Amstel House, and the Old Library Museum all must-visits for history buffs. Your historical foray will continue in the downtown district, where old pubs and taverns can be found at each and every corner of the street.
But it's not all history lessons in New Castle; Battery Park is a beautiful natural oasis that offers iconic New England vistas sure to leave you swooning!
Salem, MA, USA
- What It's Known For: This New England town is best-known for the tragic Salem Witch Trials.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Those looking for a deep dive in Salem's tragic past will definitely want to check out The Witch House museum.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Stay in the heart of historic Salem at this 1820's Brick House.
Salem may be known as the most haunted small town in Massachusetts, but don't let that keep you away. In the Northeast, pretty much any small town you visit is going to be incredibly old and historic, full of lore and legends.
Today, Salem is working hard to shrug off centuries of baggage and superstition, embracing its history and gravitas with its vibrant and well-preserved downtown district... and they've been successful, too; Salem is one of the larger towns on our list, as it's become a place residents are proud to call home. Visit, and you'll see why:
Waterfront Small Towns in the U.S.
There’s something undeniably alluring about the water, whether it’s a lovely lake, bustling river, or expansive ocean. These bodies of water aren’t just beautiful to look at, either; canals and waterways have long played a crucial role in commerce and the establishment of many an American town. Here are some of our favorite waterfront small towns in the U.S. that offer scenic beauty, history, and so much more.
Friday Harbor, WA 98250, USA
- What It's Known For: Friday Harbor is acclaimed for whale watching.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Friday Harbor's Whale Museum is definitely a must-see in town, as is the famous Lime Kiln Lighthouse.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Stay in the heart of Friday Harbor at this Artist's Suite.
Lauded as one of the most picturesque towns in the US, Washington's Friday Harbor is a vision. The town is located on San Juan Island, one of the most naturally stunning places in the country.
Friday Harbor is a quintessential PNW seaside town, with winsome boats, lighthouses, and docks dotting its shores. Sailing and kayaking are popular pastimes here, and visitors will delight in whale watching along the Pacific shores, too.
In town, an abundance of delightful shops and restaurants await, offering visitors a true taste of the Pacific Northwest.
Cannon Beach, OR, USA
- What It's Known For: One word: "Goonies." While the Goonies House is located to the north in Astoria, Ecola State Park and Cannon Beach make appearances throughout this beloved film.
- Must-Visit Attraction: It's impossible to visit the town of Cannon Beach without stopping by the eponymous beach, where the commanding Haystack Rock looms large and in charge.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, like this charming *and* pet-friendly beach cottage.
This town on the Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful charming US towns, and it captures the wonder of the Pacific Northwest.
Cannon Beach is defined by its shoreline, which features the iconic and commanding Haystack Rock. This unique formation is made up of basalt created by lava that flowed through Oregon 16 million years ago.
Its beaches are spectacular, too, and when you've tired of a day on the water, head into town to enjoy the freshest, most flavorful seafood of your life.
Curious about what to do during your visit to Cannon Beach, Oregon? Check out this 24-hour itinerary c/o YouTuber Through My Lens:
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Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA
- What It's Known For: This tiny, one-mile stretch along the California Coast is known for its beauty and charm.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Carmel is known for its many attractions, perhaps none more so than its incomparable white-sand, dog-friendly beach.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Coastal cottages abound in Carmel-by-the-Sea, like this cozy seaside shack.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is quite possibly the most charming coastal town in the country. This California gem is located on the Monterey Peninsula and is about as postcard-perfect as it gets.
This quaint little village has lots of local restaurants, wine bars, and fairy tale accommodations that all add to its allure. Of course, the town's sublime surroundings contribute to that feeling, too.
After a day of shopping and wine tasting, head down to the eponymous Carmel Beach to take in the sweeping coastal scenery and bask in a beautiful California sunset:
Grand Marais, MN 55604, USA
- What It's Known For: Named one of the best small towns in the US, Grand Marias is a mecca for art lovers and outdoor enthusiasts -- it's hailed as the oldest art colony in Minnesota.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Adventure outside the city on miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Or take a casual drive in search of wildlife; who knows... maybe you’ll spot the elusive moose!
- Where To Stay Nearby: This cottage on the harbor has some of the best views in all of Grand Marias!
In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, it can be hard to stand out. But when it comes to the ultimate lake town experience in Minnesota, Grand Marais most certainly shines.
Located at the tip of northern Minnesota on Lake Superior, Grand Marais is an utterly charming little town filled with unique shops, good eats, scenic lake views, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Visit in the winter, and you'll enjoy amazing skiing. In the summer, there's nothing better than life on the lake. And in the autumn, the fall colors in this glorious little Minnesota town will absolutely take your breath away.
Beaufort, SC, USA
- What It's Known For: Beaufort is one of only a handful of US towns wherein the entire downtown is a designated historic district.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Beaufort is located just a stone's throw from Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina's single most popular state park.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Experience a slice of history when you spend the night at this restored Freedman's cottage in Beaufort, South Carolina.
Hilton Head Island and Charleston might get all the buzz when it comes to the South Carolina Lowcountry, but the state has plenty of winsome small towns worth visiting. Beaufort is at the top of the list.
Beaufort is your quintessential Southern town: streets lined with live oaks and Spanish moss; big, beautiful historic buildings and architecture; and lots of scenic marshes and shoreline. Walk along the beach at Hunting Island State Park, and try some fresh seafood at a local restaurant -- with a sweet tea, of course. Take a tour to learn about Beaufort's history and Gullah culture with a visit to the recently established Reconstruction Era National Historical Park.
There is simply so much to see and do in this South Carolina town, a place that's positively bursting with Southern heart and soul:
Port Aransas, TX, USA
- What It's Known For: Beautiful, white sand beaches and pristine Gulf shoreline, Port Aransas is also known as the "Fishing Capital of Texas."
- Must-Visit Attraction: Just south of the city, Mustang Island State Park is easily the most popular area attraction and a wonderful destination for families.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, and we recommend "going big" with this luxury beachfront home.
Galveston and South Padre Island are arguably the most famous beach towns in Texas, but as much as we love them, they shouldn't take the entire spotlight.
Much lesser-known, yet equally worthy of visiting, Port Aransas is an unspoiled island community that's earned numerous accolades over the years, including a recent nod from Travel + Leisure‘s list of the 17 best beach towns in the U.S., yet remains stubbornly under-the-radar. That is, unless you're a an avid fisher; with 18 miles of pristine coastline, Port Aransas is aptly known as the "Fishing Capital of Texas" and has long been a favorite spot to cast a line!
But Port Aransas is so much more than an ideal spot to fish; with pearly white sands, crystal-clear waters, and tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy, Port Aransas truly is one of the best beach towns in America.
Mountain Small Towns in the U.S.
While we love a good coastal vacation or lakeside getaway, there’s nothing that quite compares to a mountain retreat. The crisp, fresh mountain air; the unbelievably beautiful scenery of snow-capped peaks and fir-covered knobs; the inherently charming and festive feel of the town itself — there’s something that’s simply magical about the mountains. And in terms of the best small mountain towns in the U.S., the following are certainly among the most charming.
Telluride, CO 81435, USA
- What It's Known For: One word: skiing.
- Must-Visit Attraction: In addition to the abundance of outdoor recreation, Telluride has quite the historic resume. The town’s historic district houses landmarks like the Sheridan Opera House, a performing-arts venue originally built in 1913, and the Telluride Historical Museum, which showcases local history in a converted hospital built in 1896.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Enjoy a proper apres ski experience when you rent a room at this ski chalet.
If you have ever had the pleasure of visiting gorgeous Telluride, Colorado, you know that it is an absolute treasure of a small town. While this is common knowledge to Coloradans, Telluride has earned a national nod from Travel + Leisure's coveted Best Small Towns in America list.
In addition to its sublime scenic beauty, Telluride is also incredibly historic, and that history is a celebrated part of its culture. Downtown Telluride is a designated National Historic Landmark District with Victorian-era buildings, many of which have been painstakingly preserved and renovated to house local businesses and restaurants.
And, of course, with regard to Telluride's outdoor recreation -- it's world-class. The town is well-known for incredible skiing at Telluride Ski Resort; and in the off-season, visitors can enjoy biking, hiking, fly fishing, golfing, and an abundance of river recreation.
The only question is: what will you explore first?
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Taos, NM 87571, USA
- What It's Known For: Taos is known for its Art Colonies and ski resorts. It's also a World Heritage Site that's sublimely beautiful.
- Must-Visit Attraction: The Taos Pueblo is a bucket-list must for anyone visiting Taos (and anyone, period); made entirely of adobe, the multi-storied homes are still occupied today, embodying a living culture.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this charming casita.
Taos often gets overlooked by its big sibling, Santa Fe, but this New Mexico town really does deserve your attention.
While Santa Fe is often touted as the oldest town in New Mexico, the title actually belongs to Taos, as the city's eponymous Taos Pueblo has had residents for over 1,000 years. Indeed, it's this historic dwelling that earns Taos much of its notoriety -- it's the only living Native American community with UNESCO World Heritage Site status that's also a National Historic Landmark designation, and it’s a fascinating place to explore:
Of course, Taos is more than just one attraction. The small town also has a thriving historic district that's full of restaurants, retailers, and local artisans; and the mountains and desert landscape of Taos make for incredible outdoor recreation all year-round.
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Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
- What It's Known For: Sedona is known for its sublime scenic beauty; red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls, and pine forests come together to create a nature scene that's wildly, shockingly beautiful.
- Must-Visit Attraction: The Great Outdoors! Sedona is known worldwide for its colorful, surreal red rock formations, which you can explore via ATV tours or hiking excursions. The Devil's Bridge Trail and Cathedral Rock are both extraordinary hikes.
- Where To Stay Nearby: This lovely town has lots of options for visitors, from resorts to amazing VRBO rentals, like this incredible mountain cabin.
In Arizona, the Grand Canyon tends to steal the spotlight, but two hours from this natural wonder, you'll find a small town that really is an Arizona treasure.
Sedona is a small desert town surrounded by incredible red rock formations and stunning geological wonders, making it a perfect, less-crowded destination for outdoorsy travelers and adventurers. The town itself is filled with galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and attractions, including the iconic Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, which features handcrafted artisanal products and wares, as well as local restaurants serving authentic Arizona cuisine.
Visit and you'll see why Sedona, Arizona, is the coolest, most underrated small town in the West!
Whitefish, MT 59937, USA
- What It's Known For: Whitefish is one of the best ski towns in the US, with the eponymous Whitefish Mountain Resort consistently ranked among the top American resorts.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Whitefish Mountain Resort -- not only is this a beautiful place for winter recreation, but this Montana resort offers year-round fun in its 3,000 acres.
- Where To Stay Nearby: In addition to the titular resort, there are some beautiful townhomes that put visitors in the heart of the action.
Located in the Montana Rocky Mountains, Whitefish is an outdoor adventurer's paradise with the soul of a small town. This charming town is situated near Glacier National Park, so it's the perfect home base for those wanting to explore the area's glaciers, lakes, meadows, and mountains.
Whitefish Mountain Resort offers 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, and during the summer, visitors can hike, bike, zip line, and race down the mountain on an alpine slide:
Back in town, Whitefish is not lacking in personality; its streets are filled with local shops, quaint restaurants, and cozy little accommodations, all of which are at their peak beauty in the winter. Whitefish gets around 300 inches of snowfall each year, and seeing the downtown covered in a blanket of white will make you feel as though you're in a real-life snow globe!
Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
- What It's Known For: Two words: Smoky Mountains.
- Must-Visit Attraction: In addition to visiting one of the most famous national parks in the world, visitors to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, should check out attractions like Ober Mountain, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and the Gatlinburg Sky Lift Park.
- Where To Stay Nearby: It's hard to beat the views from LeConte Lodge, which, at an elevation of 6,400 feet, is the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States.
Known as the "Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park," Gatlinburg is one of the most naturally beautiful places in the entire country. Offering unrivaled views of the 520,000-acre park, Gatlinburg is a splendid place to visit no matter the season.
In fact, this town of just 4,000 boasts enough arts, culture, and outdoor recreation to keep visitors very, very busy. In Gatlinburg, you can enjoy the only ski resort in the state, walk across the longest pedestrian sky bridge in North America, hike in the majestic Smokies, enjoy a vaudeville show, ride a cable car to see unrivaled aerial views, explore numerous museums, taste a variety of incredible cuisines, peruse myriad art galleries, or simply stroll down the street and take in the vibe of this charming, rustic town. (We're kind of partial to that last activity.)
Stowe, VT 05672, USA
- What It's Known For: Vibrant fall foliage
- Must-Visit Attraction: Smugglers’ Notch State Park is a beautiful expanse that offers unrivaled recreation in all four seasons.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this charming cottage.
Located in northern Vermont, Stowe is a mountain town that's a picture-perfect slice of pastoral living. During the spring and summer months, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking; in the winter, the skiing in Stowe is positively perfect.
Of course, Stowe's beauty really shines in the autumn, as its streets and landscape come alive in bright crimson, gold, and orange hues. With so much natural beauty and Northeast charm, Stowe is definitely one of the country's most beguiling little towns:
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Unique Small Towns in the U.S.
There’s something wholly wonderful and unique about every single small town in the U.S. Maybe it’s a roadside attraction or historic site. Perhaps it’s superlative scenic beauty or outdoor recreation. Regardless of your reason for visiting, you’ll find there’s so much more to discover in these wholly unique small towns across America:
Jackson Hole, Wyoming 83001, USA
- What It's Known For: World-class skiing and snowboarding.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Located near Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks, Jackson Hole is the perfect "home base" for your Wyoming adventures.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Book a cozy cabin in Jackson Hole and apres ski the day away!
The rough and rugged beauty of Wyoming cannot be overstated. Jackson Hole is best-known as a winter wonderland, with the city seeing over 400 inches of annual snowfall. A playground for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors come to ski and snowboard on Jackson Hole's 2,500 acres of skiable terrain.
But it's more than just a top ski spot; visitors return to this Wyoming valley year after year for its picturesque scenery and distinct small-town sensibility. This is epitomized with Jackson Hole's annual holiday events, which include delightful displays, festive lights, and an ice rink located right in the middle of town!
Eureka Springs, AR, USA
- What It's Known For: Hot springs galore!
- Must-Visit Attraction: Take a break from the springs and explore Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this historic tiny home.
Arkansas is an incredibly beautiful place, and Eureka Springs possesses everything that's so wonderful about the Natural State. This town of less than 2,000 has it all: historic sites, amazing Victorian architecture, a quaint downtown district, and spectacular scenic beauty. In fact, Eureka Springs is right in the heart of one of the most picturesque places in the country: the Ozarks.
This region is well-known for its natural springs, glorious waterfalls, pristine lakes, and wondrous caves, all of which make for outstanding outdoor recreation.
The town was named after its "healing" waters from the nearby natural springs, and it absolutely is a place that will make your soul happy.
For inspiration on things to do in Eureka Springs, check out this video from YouTubers ViewCation:
Marfa, TX 79843, USA
- What It's Known For: The Marfa Prada "store" in the middle of the desert!
- Must-Visit Attraction: In addition to the infamous roadside attraction (see above), Marfa has lots of unique points of interest, including Thinati Foundation.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Stay in a historic adobe dwelling in the heart of town.
This tiny desert town has become a haven for the arts, with the iconic Prada Marfa making a stunning statement along U.S. Highway 90. This town of under 2,000 residents was founded in the 1880s and originally served as a railroad water stop before becoming a training facility for thousands of pilots during WWII.
Today, Marfa is unlike any other town in Texas; it's a hub for minimalist and experimental art and attracts both tourists and artists from all over the country to experience or contribute to the scene. This Texas iconoclast is wholly unique and completely wonderful.
Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
- What It's Known For: This no-car town is known for its charming downtown and abundance of fudge shops.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Get your fill of fudge at May's Candy Shop, the oldest candy shop on the island!
- Where To Stay Nearby: There's no shortage of quaint accommodations on the island, but this pink Victorian home is easily one of the most charming.
Mackinac Island is one of the most charming towns to visit in the US, period. Located on Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Mackinac Island is a delightful little coastal locale that enjoys a laid-back, old-fashioned way of life.
In this no-car city, you'll find residents and visitors walking, biking, and even enjoying horse-drawn carriage rides around town, making for an incredibly endearing experience and welcome reprieve from the rest of the world.
While you're there, be sure to tour historic sites such as Fort Mackinac, dine at beloved eateries like The Carriage House, and sample some world-famous Mackinac Island fudge from any of the town's 12 fudge shops. What a marvelous, magical slice of #PureMichigan!
Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA
- What It's Known For: This Maine town is revered for its amazing beaches, scenic lighthouse, and fresh seafood.
- Must-Visit Attraction: There are lots of amazing lighthouses in Maine, and the Goat Island Lighthouse is a vision!
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this charming waterfront cottage.
Located along Maine's rugged shoreline awaits a town filled with charm, beauty, and history. It's no wonder Kennebunkport is consistently rated among Maine's most vibrant small towns, as this locale is the epitome of New England.
Today, a trip to Kennebunkport means lots of time admiring the coastline, beaches, stunning architecture, and foodie-approved restaurants. There's no shortage of things to see and do, though many come to enjoy R&R in one of the most rustic and resplendent regions of the country. Looking for inspiration? Here's a look at the best things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine:
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Little-Known Small Towns in the U.S.
Hidden gems are our bread and butter here at OnlyInYourState, and while there are certain small towns that seem to make every Internet listical (and rightfully so), there are so many more amazing places to discover in the U.S. Case in point: the following little-known small towns. While many remain stubbornly under the radar, these charming towns in the U.S. are all worth discovering.
Jim Thorpe, PA, USA
- What It's Known For: The eponymous Olympian was laid to rest here in 1954. His legacy is honored every year during the Jim Thorpe Birthday Celebration in May.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Cruise through this scenic stretch of Pennsylvania aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Accommodations abound in the area, including this historic and charming home.
Hailed as one of the best small towns in America, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, is a place sure to capture your heart and imagination. Known as the Switzerland of America, Jim Thorpe is home to less than 5,000 residents and draws countless visitors each year to its many activities and a variety of annual festivals (see above!)
In addition, one of the most popular activities, and a definite must-do, is a train ride aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. If you prefer spending time outdoors, however, go hiking or boating at Lehigh Gorge State Park.
If you’re a fan of the paranormal, join a walking ghost tour, and visit the Old Jail Museum. Then check into The Inn at Jim Thorpe, which is said to be teeming with paranormal activity!
Pella, IA 50219, USA
- What It's Known For: The annual Tulip Festival, which paints the town in the spirited colors of spring each May.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Downtown Pella is teeming with historic points of interest, from its public gardens and historic village to its myriad shops and bakeries. The windmills, too, are a must-see in Pella.
- Where To Stay Nearby: Rent a colorful cottage within walking distance to town!
Known for its Dutch culture and postcard-perfect downtown, Pella is one of the most delightful small towns in the country. Located less than an hour from Des Moines, Pella is a small town that feels like entering another time and place -- and country.
Founded by immigrants from Holland in 1847, Pella is a place that celebrates its Netherlands culture and heritage. Evidence of this is easy to see in Downtown Pella, which features Dutch-inspired architecture and several iconic windmills, such as the Vermeer Windmill, along with numerous Dutch bakeries and shops.
Each spring, this small town comes alive in color, with its annual Tulip Festival attracting visitors from all across the Midwest, who come to experience the simple joy of beautiful blooms and exuberant Dutch culture.
Bardstown, KY 40004, USA
- What It's Known For: One word: bourbon.
- Must-Visit Attraction: When in Bardstown, be sure to check out the Kentucky Bourbon Trail!
- Where To Stay Nearby: Stay in a former jail (!) when you book a night at the Jailer's Inn B&B in Bardstown.
Deep in the Bluegrass State, there is a place that's known far and wide as one of the best small towns in the country. Bardstown is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike who have an interest in bourbon, American history, incredible outdoor adventure, and a taste of charming, small-town life.
Visit Bardstown and check out the nearby Kentucky Bourbon Trail, or explore the iconic My Old Kentucky Home State Park. Or simply sit back and tour the town on an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage. Whatever you do, you'll be enchanted by this lovely little Kentucky town.
Hudson, NY 12534, USA
- What It's Known For: Scenic beauty: the Hudson Valley and the Catskills are absolutely spectacular all year round.
- Must-Visit Attraction: Olana State Historic Site is a must-visit for history buffs, while the downtown district is full of delightful shops, restaurants, and points of interest.
- Where To Stay Nearby: While there are lots of charming places in the downtown area, we love unique rentals in Hudson like Rusty Ridge, a sustainable and energy-efficient house a stone's throw from town.
Hudson is just two hours from New York City by train, but it feels as though it's an entire world away. Hudson, New York, is a charming, Hallmark-movie-level locale that has everything you could possibly want in a small town: a walkable city center, wonderful shopping and dining, and interesting, wholly unique experiences.
The town was once a 1700s whaling port; today, Hudson features myriad historic buildings and antique dealers, along with fantastic shops and restaurants. To cap off your experience, a night at the historic Hudson Valley Caldwell House is a must:
Helen, GA 30545, USA
- What It's Known For: Old World charm... in Georgia!
- Must-Visit Attraction: Embrace the fairy tale vibes of this town with a visit to Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen!
- Where To Stay Nearby: Book the charming Helen's Haus, a cozy, chalet-style cabin that feels like a cottage in the Alps!
Helen is perhaps the most surprising of America's small towns; this charming little locale feels much more Germany than Georgia.
With just a small population of fewer than 1,000 residents, Helen offers a small-town experience that feels, quite literally, worlds away from everything. In this charming mountain town, you'll discover classic Bavarian architecture and restaurants serving German favorites like schnitzel, soft pretzels, and, of course, great beer.
Kids are sure to enjoy the town's mountain coaster, water park and riverfront beaches, while adults will enjoy hiking in beautiful spots such as Raven Cliffs Wilderness Area and Smithgall Woods State Park.
Of course, we wouldn't blame you if you simply want to revel in Helen's delightful downtown, which is so charming, it served as the setting for a Lifetime Channel Christmas movie! Talk about charming:
Big cities may get all the attention, but it’s America’s small towns where the magic really happens. Visit these cool places, and you’ll agree that they are truly some of the best small towns in America — and absolute bucket-list musts.
What are your favorite small towns to visit in the US? For more bucket-list-worthy adventures across America, you’ll definitely want to visit these lesser-visited national parks.
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More to Explore
Best Small Towns in the US
What is considered a small town?
If you're perusing the above list of best small towns in the US, you might find yourself wondering What is considered a small town? For the purposes of this roundup, we searched for charming towns in the US that are small relative to their state's overall size (both in square miles and population). So, a "small town in Texas" might look different from a "small town in Maine," as these two states have vastly different sizes and populations.
What are the best little-known attractions in the US?
If you’re looking for more adventures in the US, there are lots of small towns and hidden gems in the US worth adding to your bucket list, including:
- Door County, Wisconsin. This lovely peninsula looks like something out of a fairytale, and you’ll never want to leave. The Green Bay Harbor looks especially astonishing during sunset. Add it to your bucket list ASAP!
- Kelleys Island, Ohio. Some say it’s one of the best small towns in America, and we have to agree. This idyllic getaway will wash away your worries and help you feel relaxed and renewed.
- Kanab, Utah. This place is so stunning, it’s been used as backdrops in many famous Western films such as The Lone Ranger and Gunsmoke.
What are the best historical sites in the US?
If you’re a history lover, there are so many historical sites in the US to add to your bucket list! In addition to the historic small towns in the US listed above, be sure to check out sites such as:
- Harriet Tubman National Historic Park in Auburn, New York. Here, you can explore Tubman’s home and learn about how she rescued hundreds of enslaved people. If you visit during autumn, you’ll be greeted with astonishing fall colors.
- Independence Hall in Pennsylvania. This place belongs on everyone’s bucket list! This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, and it formerly housed all three branches of the state’s government.
Looking for more historical sites and iconic landmarks in the US? These historic places in America are all worth discovering!