If someone were to stop you randomly on the road and ask you, which are some of the best towns in the United States, you would probably fumble a little with the answer before mentioning the likes of Los Angeles and New York. You might forget the backbone of the US was long formed by the numerous small communities found in individual states.
What distinguishes these towns from large urban areas is the supplementary appeal of hometown heroes and home-spun charm. In this post, we have accumulated a list of the top 40 coolest small towns by State, with the bulk of each town’s description being collected from the likes of House Beautiful magazine, The Travel Channel, and Architectural Digest.
1. Alabama: Magnolia Springs
This town was incorporated in 2006 and has a population of 804. Despite its recent incorporation, the history of Magnolia Springs can be traced back to the 1800s. The town is situated along the famous Magnolia River and is a few minutes away from Mobile, Alabama. Magnolia Springs is a beautiful town of dogwoods, wisteria, azaleas, and, not to forget, magnolia trees.
2. Sitka (Alaska)
With a population of about 8689, Sitka is a favorite of Reader’s Digest, House Beautiful, Country Living, and Architectural Digest. Before its incorporation in 1913, Sitka was initially a segment of Russia. Its proximity to Juneau and waterfront beauty make it an ideal spot for cruise lines drifting the inner passage.
3. Sedona (Arizona)
Situated South of Flagstaff, Sedona has a population of 10336 and has been in existence since 1902. Founded upon the beautiful red-rock buttes and their proximity to the Grand Canyon means that you can always choose to spend your summer weekends here instead of jetting off to Scottsdale or Phoenix.
4. Eureka Springs (Arkansas)
Travel enthusiasts and visitors will tell you that the charm of Eureka Springs can be compared to that of the Victorian days. This can be attributed to its public bathhouses and natural hot springs from where this magnificent town obtains its name. If you are looking for a town with a vintage charm, then Eureka Springs is the best place to be.
5. Carmel-by-the-Sea (California)
With a population of 3897, Carmel-by-the-Sea sits just above the famed Big Sur in California beyond the Monterey Peninsula. The town is home to Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Pacific Grove. Its proximity to the sea makes it one of the most beautiful sceneries in the entire country. It is no wonder then that the town ranks high on U.S. News & World Report’s list of the best small towns.
6. Breckenridge (Colorado)
Established in 1859 and with a population of 4928, Breckenridge is a favorite of Country Living and Architectural Digest. Skiing fans will find this small town enticing. The town borders the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, which become particularly appealing during winter. A Victorian mining area supplements the natural grace of this town.
7. Mystic (Connecticut)
If you are a lover of sea travel and all the fun it offers, you will find Mystic extremely appealing. With a population of 4205, this town features an alluring coastline that visitors from New England often frequent. Its seaport museum features an aquarium of over 10000 sea creatures.
8. New Castle (Delaware)
New Castle is situated south of Wilmington, and despite its small size, it manages to feature tons of history and beauty. You’d be surprised to learn that the town is home to some of the oldest buildings in the country, with some of them dating back to as early as the 1700s.
9. Sanibel Island (Florida)
You’re mistaken if you think Florida is simply the host of a Latin-inspired Art Deco megacity or, as others prefer to call it, an amusement park. Florida is home to numerous small towns, including Sanibel Island, which ranks among the top 20 small towns in America, according to the U.S. News & World Report.
10. Dahlonega (Georgia)
With a population of 7007, Dahlonega is situated north of Atlanta. If you have never laid your eyes on more than a few cataracts of gold, then going down to Dahlonega might not be a bad idea. The numerous gold mines situated in this town coupled with the Gold Museum give it a unique appeal and history embedded in wealth and discovery.
11. Hanalei (Hawaii)
With a population of just 450 and established in 1834, the town of Hanalei is situated on the greenest and oldest islands of Hawaii, Kauai. You’d recognize this island from the widely renowned film “South Pacific.” Hanalei boasts a laid-back surfer vibe, beautiful mountain views, and unforgettable scenic beaches.
12. Ketchum (Idaho)
Ketchum is situated at the center of Idaho and is mainly renowned as the heart of Sun Valley Ski Resort. There is nowhere else in America where you will find galleries and museums next to conventional amenities and ski shops. An artistic community mainly inhabits the town.
13. Galena (Illinois)
With a population of 3225, Galena is one of the most historic towns in the U.S. The town was established in the 1690s and was home to Ulysses S. Grant. The first sight that you will likely encounter is Grant’s Dowling House, constructed in 1860. Galena features rolling hills that are typical of the northwest. This small town is unlike the other parts of Illinois that glaciers have flattened over the years.
14. Nashville (Indiana)
Nashville is situated just next to Bloomington and features a population of 3057. With a history that dates back to 1809, Nashville is recognized as one of the oldest music towns in Indiana. A trip to Nashville will not be complete without visiting T.C. Steele’s home and well-kept gardens.
15. Winterset (Iowa)
Winterset is a widely renowned town in Lowa, boasting a population of 5276. You might catch a glimpse of this beautiful town in the film “The Bridges of Madison County.” Winterset is not just a historical town because of its bridge culture; it is also recognized as the home to John Wayne.
16. Abilene (Kansas)
Abilene is perhaps primarily renowned for its close connection to the 34th president of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower. As much he was not born in this town, he spent most of his years here, including his last ones. His presidential museum and library are some of the hallmarks of this small town.
17. Grand Rivers (Kentucky)
With a small population of 373, Grand Rivers is one of the most historic towns in the U.S., with its establishment dating back to the 1890s. The town has been labeled “The Village Between the Lakes” because it is situated between two artificial lakes. You can find every water activity in this town from swimming and fishing to canoeing and sailing.
18. St. Francisville (Louisiana)
A slow-paced lifestyle and moss-draped trees characterize the State of Louisiana. As a favorite of House of Beautiful magazine, St. Francisville easily ranks as the most charming and appealing town in this State. With a population of 1627 and a history that dates back to 1809, St. Francisville has maintained its culture of big festivals.
19. Bar Harbor (Maine)
Bar Harbor boasts an outstanding reputation because it is the only town in the country situated close to a significant national park. This explains why the town continues to be recognized as America’s prettiest space. While in Bar Harbor, one can visit Acadia National Park, Mt. Desert Island, and Frenchman Bay.
20. Ocean City (Maryland)
Ocean City is one of the largest towns in the U.S., with approximately 6969 people. It is recognized as one of the first seaside resort towns to be established in America. If you’re looking for a perfect spot for your vacation, then Ocean City is the place to be. You will have the rare privilege of eating or shopping alongside the Atlantic Ocean.
21. Edgartown (Massachusetts)
Suppose you are looking to get that VIP experience while at the same time enjoying the natural provisions of nature in an averagely populated town. In that case, Edgartown is the place to be. The town is renowned for being the favorite hangout for high-profile figures such as the Obamas and the Clintons.
22. Traverse City (Michigan)
With a population of 15515 people, this is the largest city in northern Michigan. You’re probably wondering what Traverse City is doing on the list of small towns in the U.S. Well, here’s the answer: Since its establishment in 1847, Traverse City has maintained a small-town charm is usually confirmed by its annual National Cherry Festival.
23. Grand Marais (Minnesota)
Grand Marais easily ranks as House of Beautiful magazine’s favorite owing to its excellent lake location. This town is situated on Lake Superior on the SouthSouth of the Canadian border. As if this is not enough, the town is surrounded by the Superior National Forest on land.
24. New Albany (Mississippi)
Its population of 36461 and its location might tempt you to think that this is another one of New York’s neighborhoods. New Albany was established in 1840 as a mill town and can be described as being sweet as Tupelo honey-funny thing, is situated close to the city of Tupelo.
25. Weston (Missouri)
At this point, it is safe to say that waterways and rivers are the key features of charming towns. If you disagree, then maybe knowing that Weston is situated along the captivating Missouri River might convince you. On top of its rich history, Weston is populated with pubs, distilleries, and wineries.
26. Whitefish (Montana)
Any serious travel pro is aware of this small town situated in the heart of Montana. Skiing in the winter is enabled by the town’s fresh powder coupled with a Whitefish lake for summer activities. When you’re not enjoying the water and winter games, you are free to try out the biking and hiking trails accessible throughout the year.
27. Nebraska City (Nebraska)
Nebraska City was incorporated in 1855 and has a population of 7313. It has been rated as the most preferred town by House Beautiful and Travel Channel. One of the iconic structures in this city constitutes the white mansion. One peek at this mansion, and you’ll be looking around to confirm that you are not in Washington D.C. because it looks much like the White House. This mansion is, however, a part of the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park.
28. Genoa (Nevada)
In the 1850s, Genoa was established as a trading-post town that operated as a loading and off-loading point for traders and settlers following the California Trail. It has maintained this status only that this time visitors stop in this small town to obtain supplies while on their way to Genoa Peak’s plentiful trails.
29. Meredith (New Hampshire)
With a population of 6384, Meredith was established in 1768 and is, as such, one of the oldest towns to be established along the tranquil Lake Winnipesaukee. It was initially known as Palmer’s Town. Suppose you are looking to participate in such activities as swimming, canoeing, boating, and fishing while at the same time enjoying the abundance of exotic restaurants and captivating scenery. In that case, Meredith is the place to be.
30. Cape May (New Jersey)
Most of us only have visions and perceptions of the Jersey Shore as presented by reality T.V. Nothing you have watched in these shows compares to the actual reality of the charm, serenity, and attractiveness of the Jersey Shore. If you still doubt this, then pay a visit to Cape May.
31. Taos (New Mexico)
With a population of 56668, Taos has been ranked as the most preferred American town by the likes of Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Travel Channel, and Reader’s Digest. The town is located at the core of the desert of New Mexico. It is filled with art galleries and housing museums.
32. Cooperstown (New York)
Whenever the word “sport” gets mentioned to any typical American, the first thing that comes to their mind is baseball. Now can you imagine residing in America’s native home of baseball. That’s right! Cooperstown is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Situated at the lower end of Otsego Lake, Cooperstown is lined with museums and art galleries which supplement its baseball tradition.
33. Ocracoke Island (North Carolina)
Ocracoke Island has a population of 948 and has been listed as a favorite of Travel Channel and House Beautiful. The Outer Banks of North Carolina are all lovely and unique in their own way, Ocracoke Island, however stands out. This town is home to legendary characters such as Blackbeard and Sir Walter Raleigh.
34. Garrison (North Dakota)
Garrison’s welcome sign tells the story of this fishing town in its entirety. It is located along Lake Sakakawea, North Dakota’s biggest lake. If you are a fish lover you will find the culture and activities here quite entertaining. Each year, an annual tournament is held in honor of the town’s fishing culture where the winner gets to walk away with a prize of $15000.
35. Marietta (Ohio)
Established in 1788 and with a population of 13673, Marietta has been listed as a favorite of Travel Channel and House Beautiful. Overlooking West Virginias Williamstown and the great Ohio River, Marietta honors the American culture and history with several museums and art galleries coupled with a Mound Cemetery.
36. Davis (Oklahoma)
Whenever one hears about Oklahoma the first thing that comes to mind is farming. But you will be very mistaken to think that this is all there is to Oklahoma. Between Fort Worth, Texas and the capital city, you will find the captivating Arbuckle Mountains. Here you will be treated to the beautiful scenery of the Tuner Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the country.
37. Cannon Beach (Oregon)
If you ever happen to visit this iconic town you will most certainly encounter the Haystack Rock, Oregon’s iconic boulder. Whenever visitors come to this place all they focus on is the rock, forgetting that there is a beautiful town that comes with this geographic feature. Cannon beach offers the natives with an expansive beach coupled with attractive views and wildlife.
38. Jim Thorpe (Pennsylvania)
Jim Thorpe was originally labelled Bear Mountain owing to its mountainous features akin of eastern Pennsylvania. It was, however renamed in 1954 in honor of the Olympic Champion, Jim Thorpe, who was born and raised here. The town has since transformed from a coal mining area to a scenic spot whose beauty is unmatchable in the entire state.
39. Bristol (Rhode Island)
Having being established in 1680 and with a population of 22290, Bristol is a favorite of Travel Channel and Architectural Digest. It is recognized as the home of America’s most successful Independence Day Parades with thousands of people flocking this small town every year for the fourth of July celebrations.
40. Beaufort (South Carolina)
Beaufort is situated on Port Royal Island adjacent to the more famous Hilton Head Island. We can all agree that each of South Carolina’s coastal islands are quite captivating and inviting but Beaufort is filled with imposing and historic antebellum mansions along streets that are lined with palm trees making it a sight to behold.
