America’s Coolest Small Towns by State

Big cities like New York and Los Angeles may get most of the attention, but America is filled with small towns and communities that have long formed the backbone of the nation. These towns are filled with their own history, museums and cultural attractions, but also come with the added appeal of home-spun charm and hometown heroes. 

While millions spend big dollars to pack themselves like lemmings into big-city attractions, America's wonderful small towns offer a carefree getaway at a fraction of the cost. 

Turning to the likes of U.S. News & World Report, Reader's Digest, Architectural Digest, The Travel Channel and House Beautiful magazine, here's a look at the best small town in every U.S. state. 

Alabama: Magnolia Springs

Population: 819

Incorporated in: 2006

Where to stay: Magnolia Springs Bed and Breakfast

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Why Magnolia Springs Is the Best

Located along the Magnolia River, Magnolia Springs dates back to 1800 and is mere minutes from Mobile, Alabama. This isn't a suburb, however. No, this is a sleepy town of adorable houses and canopies of oak trees, azaleas, wisteria, dogwoods and, of course, magnolia trees.

Drive along its quiet streets and feel completely lost in an authentic Southern backdrop.

 

Alaska: Sitka

Population: 8,407

Incorporated in: 1913

Where to stay: Westmart Sitka

Why Sitka Is the Best

Originally a part of Russia until 1867, Sitka is the actual town where the official transfer of Alaskan land to the United States took place. Located near Juneau, the state capital, this waterfront beauty is a popular stop for cruise lines traveling the Inner Passage.

Though tiny, it packs in a diverse array of offerings, including a wine bar, a brewery and an independent bookstore.

Arizona: Sedona

Population: 9,763

Founded in: 1902

Where to stay: Enchantment Resort

Why Sedona Is the Best

You may hear of friends jetting off to Phoenix and Scottsdale to get their golf game on or to enjoy a warm winter, but Sedona, south of Flagstaff, is just as appealing.

Set against striking red-rock buttes, it features amazing hiking and the Coconino National Forest, which is much larger than the Sonoran Desert National Monument. Plus, it's nearer to the Grand Canyon than Arizona's more famous cities and touts a thriving artistic community.

U.S. News loves Sedona so much that it ranked it as one of the top five best small towns in the entire country.

Arkansas: Eureka Springs

Population: 2,171

Incorporated in: 1880

Where to stay: The Crescent Hotel and Spa

Why Eureka Springs Is the Best

Nestled into the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas' northwest corner is a town beloved by visitors and travel pros alike. Aptly named, Eureka Springs offers relaxing natural hot springs with public bathhouses that have existed since the Victorian days.

Now a historic district, this small town will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

California: Carmel-by-the-Sea

Population: 3,196

Incorporated in: 1916

Where to stay: Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Why Carmel-by-the-Sea Is the Best

Just above California's famed Big Sur is the beyond-words-gorgeous Monterey Peninsula. Home to Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach, Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, it offers no shortage of pleasant seaside towns, each offering a different taste of the area.

The favorite, though, is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a tiny — 1 square mile! — charmer with upscale shopping and dining amid gingerbread-like houses. Monterey is no slouch either, though, landing in the top 10 on U.S. News & World Report's list of the best small towns. 

Why not check out both?

Colorado: Breckenridge

Population: 5,024

Established in: 1859

Where to stay: Grand Timber Lodge

Why Breckenridge Is the Best

Entrancing ski towns seem a dime a dozen in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and they're invariably irresistible no matter when you visit. In winter, blankets of soft snow set the stage for outdoor adventure; in fall, the leaf-peeping can't be beaten; and in summer, cool mountain breezes make for perfect hiking weather.

One of the best of these amazing-any-time-of-year towns is Breckenridge — "Breck" to all who love her — which still features a Victorian mining area to explore. 

Connecticut: Mystic

Population: 4,776

Settled in: 1643

Where to stay: Hyatt Place Mystic

Why Mystic Is the Best

The alluring coastline of eastern Connecticut is home to a small town oft-visited by those around New England, as it is home to an aquarium of 10,000 sea creatures.

Visit its historic downtown, arts center or nature center, as well as its seaport museum, where you can catch your own ride from Mystic River into the sound. Nearby is Noank, another picturesque New England small town.

Delaware: New Castle

Population: 5,499

Founded in: 1640

Where to stay: Red Roof Inn & Suites Wilmington - New Castle

Why New Castle Is the Best

The entire state of Delaware is small, and its towns are no exception. But destinations like New Castle, just 6 miles south of Wilmington, manage to fit in tons of beauty and history despite their size. 

How much history? New Castle is home to buildings that have stood since the early 1700s, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns with the oldest continuous residences in the U.S.

Florida: Sanibel Island

Population: 6,382

Settled in: 1884

Where to stay: South Seas Island Resort

Why Sanibel Island Is the Best

Florida is so much more than an amusement-park destination or the home of a certain Latin-inspired Art Deco mega-city. You'll also find amiable small towns up and down the peninsula state's coastline, including one of the top 20 small towns according to U.S. News: Sanibel Island.

Just 12 miles long and 3 miles wide, Sanibel features shell-covered beaches and wildlife refuges for a truly off-the-beaten-path Floridian getaway.

Georgia: Dahlonega

Population: 6,654

Founded in: 1833

Where to stay: The Limelight Inn

Why Dahlonega Is the Best

There is gold in them thar hills of North Georgia, especially in the bewitching town of Dahlonega, less than an hour north of Atlanta.

Visit the Gold Museum and numerous gold mines to understand the golden history of this Southern charmer — and pan for gold yourself. Quaint shops, restaurants and even wineries make this town a popular day-trip destination for nearby city dwellers and visitors.

Hawaii: Hanalei

Population: 408

Settled in: 1834

Where to stay: Hanalei Bay Resort

Why Hanalei Is the Best

On Hawaii's oldest and greenest island of Kauai, you'll find Hanalei Bay, famously featured in the film "South Pacific." Here, the peaceful Hanalei Town boasts scenic beaches, mountain views and a laid-back surfer vibe.

Grab a Mai Tai at a local bar, enjoy fresh sushi and shave ice, explore historic churches and houses, and wriggle your toes in the sand as your cares melt away.

Idaho: Ketchum

Population: 3,588

Founded in: 1880

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, Country Living

Why Ketchum Is the Best

Within central Idaho is the sweet town of Ketchum, the heart of Sun Valley Ski Resort. (That's the mountain flanking the town.)

Find art museums and galleries alongside ski shops and amenities in this artistic community that has yet to become an Instagram sensation — making it far cooler, in our book.

Illinois: Galena

Population: 3,282

Settled in: 1690s

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Galena Is the Best

The home of Ulysses S. Grant in 1860, Galena is a town showcasing its well-preserved early-1800s buildings, including Grant's Dowling House. Its natural beauty is equally captivating: Unlike most of the state of Illinois, flattened centuries ago by glaciers, Galena is set in the rolling hills of the northwest.

Visitors would be remiss if they skipped out on seeing Horseshoe Mound, which affords views of Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa and the Mighty Mississippi River.

Indiana: Nashville

Population: 1,266

Settled in: 1809

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Nashville Is the Best

Nashville is not just a music city in Tennessee. In Indiana, just outside of Bloomington, yet another awesome Nashville awaits.

The artist T.C. Steele lived here, and visitors can explore his home and gardens to see his Impressionist works. Pioneer Village gives a hint to what life was like in its early days. And the town wows with its setting in the undulating hills of the southern part of the state.

Iowa: Winterset

Population: 5,385

Platted in: 1849

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Winterset Is the Best

Anyone who has seen the romantic film "The Bridges of Madison County" has already gotten a glimpse at the Iowa town of Winterset; one of the famous covered bridges spotlighted in the film is located here.

In addition to holding an important place in bridge-culture history, Winterset is also the birthplace of one John Wayne. Visitors can explore a museum dedicated to the decorated actor, who was born Marion Mitchell Morrison and nicknamed "Duke" since childhood.

Kansas: Abilene

Population: 6,468

Founded in: 1857

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Abilene Is the Best

While Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th president and 5-star general, wasn't born in Abilene, he did spend many years here, and it's where you'll find his excellent presidential library and museum. It's also where he was buried. 

Eisenhower was an aficionado of the town's Wild West history and famous native son, "Wild Bill" Hickok, another feature that makes Abilene an intriguing destination. 

Kentucky: Grand Rivers

Population: 352

Incorporated in: 1890

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Grand Rivers Is the Best

This town's nickname, "The Village Between the Lakes," says it all: It is indeed situated between two man-made lakes, both among the largest in the U.S.

Naturally, the town excels at everything water-related — sailing, canoeing, fishing, swimming and more.

Louisiana: St. Francisville

Population: 1,579

Established in: 1809

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why St. Francisville Is the Best

Louisiana is filled with bewitching small towns featuring moss-draped trees and a slow-paced lifestyle, and none charm more than this destination north of Baton Rouge.

Just don't let that ease of living fool you; festivals are a big deal here and offer a spirited time. Join in the Audubon Pilgrimage celebrating John James Audubon's time in St. Francisville or the Walker Percy Weekend's literary event honoring the acclaimed author, who set his stories in Louisiana.

Maine: Bar Harbor

Population: 5,535

Settled in: 1763

A Favorite of: U.S. News & World Report

Why Bar Harbor Is the Best

The only town in the U.S. found within the confines of a major national park, Bar Harbor has long been touted as one of America's prettiest towns.

The harborfront beauty serves as a base for adventure-seekers exploring Cadillac Mountain, Frenchman Bay and the many trails, cliffs and beaches of Mt. Desert Island and Acadia National Park. 

Maryland: Ocean City

Population: 6,900

Founded in: 1875

A Favorite of: U.S. News & World Report

Why Ocean City Is the Best

One of the first American seaside resort towns is home to a wooden beach boardwalk dating back to the mid-1800s. With its amusements, restaurants and shopping set alongside the Atlantic Ocean, it's the perfect spot for a good old-fashioned summer vacation. 

What's not to love?

Massachusetts: Edgartown

Population: 5,168

Settled in: 1642

A Favorite of: Country Living, U.S. News & World Report

Why Edgartown Is the Best

You'll find the fetching Edgartown on the island of Martha's Vineyard, accessible via a ferry that fills with throngs of tourists and seasonal residents each summer. 

A favorite of presidents, including the Clintons and most recently the Obamas, Edgartown and Martha's Vineyard provide the quintessential New England coastline setting — sailboats in the harbor, beach cottages, Victorian-styled resorts and soft, sandy beaches, all providing a welcome reprieve from the mainland's hustle and bustle.

Michigan: Traverse City

Population: 15,559

Settled in: 1847

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, Reader's Digest

Why Traverse City Is the Best

Actually the largest city in northern Michigan, Traverse City nonetheless retains small-town charm, particularly during its annual, beloved National Cherry Festival. (Fun fact: Three-quarters of the popular Montmorency cherries grown in the U.S. come from Michigan!)

Besides its tart cherries, the town boasts a location in Grand Traverse Bay, providing an entryway to carefree days on the water and bays of Lake Michigan.

Minnesota: Grand Marais

Population: 1,340

Settled in: 1700s

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Grand Marais Is the Best

Another Great Lakes setting can be found in Minnesota's Grand Marais. Just south of the Canadian border, this sleepy village is located on Lake Superior but surrounded on land by the Superior National Forest.

Its remote location makes for a quiet getaway, but there's still plenty to do on the lake and in the hills, along with beer and wine tastings at North Shore wineries and breweries.

Mississippi: New Albany

Population: 7,618

Settled in: 1840

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why New Albany Is the Best

This small town has nothing to do with the capital of New York. Sweet as Tupelo honey (and not too far from the city of Tupelo), New Albany dates back to 1840, when it was a mill town along the Tallahatchie River.

Today, you can enjoy trails along the river and into the forest, including a scenic 44-mile biking trail.

Missouri: Weston

Population: 1,765

Established in: 1837

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, House Beautiful 

Why Weston Is the Best

Rivers and waterways inevitably make for winsome towns. Case in point? Weston, located along the beautiful Missouri River.

The town is also filled with wineries, distilleries and pubs, not to mention tons of history. Established in 1837, it was a stopping point for Lewis and Clark during their exploration of the country.

Montana: Whitefish

Population: 8,492

Settled in: 1904

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, Reader's Digest, Travel Channel

Why Whitefish Is the Best

A resort town with fresh powder for skiing in the winter, Whitefish Lake for water fun in the summer, and great hiking and biking trails throughout the year, Whitefish is beloved among travel pros.

When the Rocky Mountains backdrop doesn't steal away your attention, you can turn your focus toward downtown's inviting restaurants and shops. 

Nebraska: Nebraska City

Population: 7,202

Incorporated in: 1855

A Favorite Of: House Beautiful and Travel Channel

Why Nebraska City Is the Best

It may look slightly like our nation's White House, but Nebraska City's white mansion is actually part of the Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. The former home of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day, is now a museum on 65 acres of land with an arboretum (of course).

It's just one of many reasons to stop in this beguiling Nebraska town. And you thought there wasn't much to see in Nebraska. Tsk.

Nevada: Genoa

Population: 786

Founded in: 1851

A Favorite of: U.S. News & World Report

Why Genoa Is the Best

Not far from the Nevada side of gorgeous Lake Tahoe, Genoa dates back to 1851, when it was a trading-post town that served as a stopping point for settlers following the California Trail.

Today, it's a stopping point for those heading to Genoa Peak's plentiful trails, which provide stunning views of the lake and its ski and lakeside resorts.

New Hampshire: Meredith

Population: 6,415

Incorporated in: 1768

A Favorite Of: House Beautiful

Why Meredith Is the Best

In 1748, Meredith (originally known as Palmer's Town) was one of the first towns developed along tranquil Lake Winnipesaukee. These days, it remains a resort getaway for all who want to enjoy "Lake Winni's" 71 square miles. (Fishing, boating, canoeing or swimming, anyone?)

Visit in the fall to take in the colorful New England foliage, or the winter when the pines are covered in snow. 

New Jersey: Cape May

Population: 2,834

Incorporated in: 1848

A Favorite of: House Beautiful, U.S. News & World Report

Why Cape May Is the Best

If your vision of the Jersey Shore has been shaped by a certain MTV "reality" show, you'll definitely be surprised by Cape May.

Found at the lower tip of the Shore, just across from Delaware, this Victorian seaside town oozes charm from every corner. You'll feel as if you've stepped into fictional Mayberry — only this one set along the beaches of the Atlantic Ocean.

New Mexico: Taos

Population: 5,596

Founded in: 1795

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Reader's Digest, Travel Channel

Why Taos Is the Best

Deep within the desert of New Mexico, at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, is a town filled with adobe buildings housing museums and art galleries.

Every winter, this artists' enclave transforms into a ski resort for Taos Ski Valley, less traversed than Rocky Mountain contemporaries but beloved by all who know it.

New York: Cooperstown

Population: 1,867

Established in: 1786

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, Reader's Digest

Why Cooperstown Is the Best

What is more American than baseball? How about the small town that is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame?

Found at the lower tip of Otsego Lake, this cheerful village is lined with quaint shops, restaurants, art galleries and museums, farming and, of course, baseball. 

North Carolina: Ocracoke Island

Population: 973

Settled in: 1750

A Favorite of: House Beautiful, Travel Channel

Why Ocracoke Island Is the Best

North Carolina's Outer Banks are barrier islands separating the Southern state from the Atlantic Ocean. They're all lovely in their own way, but Ocracoke stands out.

Though it's just 13 miles long and 2 miles wide, the island was home to the famous adventurer Sir Walter Raleigh in the late 1500s and Blackbeard in the 1700s. (He was captured and killed here; some even say he was born and raised here!)

This rich history can be explored, or one can simply enjoy the miles upon miles of beaches when visiting.

North Dakota: Garrison

Population: 1,432

Settled in: 1905

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Garrison Is the Best

If a picture says a thousand words, let Garrison's welcome sign tell its story. Situated along North Dakota's largest lake, Sakakawea, this is home base for those who love to fish and get away from the world.

Fishing is so popular that the Governor's Walleye Cup tournament prize is $15,000. (Yes, the lake is named for Sacagawea, the teen Native American who assisted Lewis and Clark on their journey.)

Ohio: Marietta

Population: 13,417

Settled in: 1788

A Favorite of: House Beautiful, Travel Channel

Why Marietta Is the Best

Pioneers first settled Marietta in southeastern Ohio in the late 1700s.

Overlooking the Ohio River and West Virginia's Williamstown, the town honors its early American history with a number of museums, as well as the Mound Cemetery, the final resting place for heroes of the American Revolution.

Oklahoma: Davis

Population: 2,801

Established in: 1898

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why It's the Best

If you think Oklahoma is entirely farmland, you are very wrong. Between the capital city and Fort Worth, Texas, you'll find the Arbuckle Mountains. Here, Davis is home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, Turner Falls, which drops 77 feet into a swimming hole that is open to the public.

The outdoor parks, hiking, wilderness centers and even a drive-through animal park give travelers plenty of reasons to stop and visit.

Oregon: Cannon Beach

Population: 1,547

Incorporated in: 1956

A Favorite of: U.S. News & World Report

Why Cannon Beach Is the Best

Photos cannot capture the beauty of Haystack Rock, Oregon's iconic boulder at Cannon Beach. Most photos are also shot from the beach, facing the rock, entirely skipping the fact that there is a small town to enjoy here, too.

Who wouldn't want to live along this expansive beach with sweeping views and wildlife? Anyone who doesn't is invited to visit.

Pennsylvania: Jim Thorpe

Population: 4,560

Founded in: 1818

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest

Why Jim Thorpe Is the Best

Originally called Mauch Chunk, which means "Bear Place" or "Bear Mountain," this mountainous town in eastern Pennsylvania was renamed in 1954 to honor the Olympic Native American athlete interred here. What began as a coal mining town has transformed itself into a scenic spot along the Lehigh River near Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Early 19th-century buildings hold boutiques and restaurants that fill with visitors in the summer and fall, when festivals are aplenty.

Rhode Island: Bristol

Population: 22,131

Settled in: 1680

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, Travel Channel

Why Bristol Is the Best

Home to America's longest-running Independence Day Parade, thousands flock to this seaport town in Rhode Island. Beyond its red, white and blue decor, the town is a sailing mecca offering entry to Narragansett and Mt. Hope Bay.

This rich sailing history is honored at Bristol's America's Cup museum, the Herreshoff Marine Museum. Skipping a chance to sail here would be a tragedy.

South Carolina: Beaufort

Population: 12,960

Incorporated in: 1711

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

 

Why Beaufort Is the Best

While many travelers are familiar with the welcoming Hilton Head Island, just across the way is Port Royal Island, home to Beaufort.

Each of the coastal Sea Islands of South Carolina are inviting, but Beaufort's downtown district filled with historic and imposing antebellum mansions along palm tree-lined streets make it not-to-be-missed.

South Dakota: Spearfish

Population: 12,358

Founded in: 1876

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest

Why Spearfish Is the Best

Near Black Hills National Forest, not far from Rapid City, is the year-round recreational town of Spearfish, featuring ample hiking and biking trails and practically any way you may think of to get outdoors.

Home to Black Hills State University, Spearfish gets a youthful boost from its students and has a thriving artistic community as well. 

Tennessee: Gatlinburg

Population: 3,726

Settled in: 1806

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Reader's Digest, U.S. News & World Report

Why Gatlinburg Is the Best

The Great Smoky Mountains is the No. 1 most-visited national park in the United States, yet its base town of Gatlinburg has retained its small-town charm and Southern hospitality.

Enjoy the national park playground or all the attractions within the town, including an aquarium and adventure park. Be sure to head to neighboring Pigeon Forge to sample Dolly Parton's hometown and iconic Dollywood while you're here.

Texas: Marfa

Population: 1,750

Founded in: Early 1880s

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, House Beautiful 

Why Marfa Is the Best

Deep in the heart of West Texas' desert landscape is a community filled with art. Marfa has been called an "art oasis" thanks to its impressive array of contemporary art centers and galleries.

The imaginative town is not far from Big Bend National Park, for those seeking inspiration. Just outside the town's borders is a platform for taking in mysterious orbs that light up the night sky, known as the Marfa Lights. (Cue the spooky music now.)

Utah: Moab

Population: 5,317

Settled in: 1878

A Favorite of: U.S. News & World Report and Reader's Digest

Why Moab Is the Best

Moab is located just minutes from not one, but two of Utah's most beautiful national parks: Arches and Canyonlands.

Serving as a base for anyone not up for camping under the star-filled sky, the town is filled with hotel options, restaurants and plenty of shopping in galleries and boutiques, outfitted with works by local artisans and crafters.

Vermont: Stowe

Population: 5,223

Chartered in: 1763

A Favorite of: Architectural Digest, U.S. News & World Report

Why Stowe Is the Best

Picturesque Stowe is renowned as one of the best ski resorts and villages in New England. Visitors can see Canada, New York and New Hampshire from Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, on a clear day.

They can enjoy the mountain any season of the year, with accommodations, dining and shopping found within the town.

Virginia: Williamsburg

Population: 15,590

Founded in: 1632

A Favorite of: Reader's Digest, U.S. News & World Report

 

Why Williamsburg Is the Best

As a colony and capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg is part of the Historic Triangle that includes Jamestown and Yorktown.

This living-history museum walks travelers back to the beginnings of America, while also serving up more trendy offerings like craft breweries and meaderies. 

Washington: Friday Harbor

Population: 2,747

Incorporated in: 1909

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Friday Harbor Is the Best

Washington State's best-kept secret is its San Juan Island archipelago. Waters filled with orcas, seals and sea lions surround charming islands brimming with cuteness in boutiques, art galleries and restaurants.

Friday Harbor, located on San Juan Island, is the commercial center of the islands. From here, visitors can depart upon sea and land adventures, including visits to the Whale Museum and the San Juan Islands Museum to learn more about this blissful spot on earth.

West Virginia: Berkeley Springs

Population: 755

Incorporated in: 1776

A Favorite of: House Beautiful

Why Berkeley Springs Is the Best

Natural hot springs have made this town along the Maryland and West Virginia border a draw since the 1700s, when it was referred to (appropriately) as Bath.

George Washington himself took to the baths here — and there is a presidential bathtub monument to commemorate it! Today, Berkeley Springs State Park allows visitors to continue soaking in the mineral water, while a museum in a bathhouse from 1815 tells of the town's healing history. 

Wisconsin: Mineral Point

Population: 2,565

Settled in: 1827

A Favorite of: Smithsonian Magazine

Why Mineral Point Is the Best

A different kind of mineral gives Mineral Point its name. The former mining town in southwestern Wisconsin dates back to the early 1800s and still houses original structures that are filled with memorabilia, such as the Pendarvis mining site and the Mineral Point Railroad Museum.

As is the trend with the small towns on this list, Mineral Point's art scene is a pretty nifty reason to visit as well.

Wyoming: Jackson

Population: 10,849

Settled in: Early 1880s

A Favorite of: U.S. News & World Report 

Why Jackson Is the Best

As the second-best small town in the U.S., according to U.S. News, Jackson is an example of old and new done well.

A modern-day ski resort town for Jackson Hole, which has the highest vertical ski slopes in the U.S., this Snake River Valley town's square is a darling shopping and dining-filled space. Just six miles from Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, Jackson is a nature- and adventure-lover's dream, too. Spot moose and elk simply driving to the convenience store.