Bruno Pugh
When it comes to travel destinations in the United States, do you always gravitate towards popular cities and attractions? While big cities like Los Angeles and Chicago often steal the spotlight, America has many small towns that provide unique experiences and rich cultural heritage. These 50 areas may not be on the travel itinerary, but they are definitely worth a visit for those looking for an authentic adventure.
Alabama: Fort Payne
Fort Payne is located in the Appalachian foothills and has a varied history, from Sequoyah’s creation of the Cherokee alphabet to the tragic events of the Trail of Tears. Once a thriving industrial town with a successful hosiery industry, it has become a destination with beautiful natural attractions. The reason it might be underrated is because not many people know of its attractions.
Alaska: Haines
Haines, situated between Juneau and Skagway, is only 45 miles from the U.S./Canadian border and is accessible by road, air, and water. The town has sunny weather in the typically rainy Inside Passage and breathtaking mountain and ocean views, ideal for hiking, kayaking, and fishing. It’s a small, quiet town with plenty of heart.
Arizona: Bisbee
Travelers usually skip Bisbee because they don’t know how many amazing attractions it has. If you’re creative, you’ll love visiting this small town. It has evolved from a mining town to a vibrant arts and culture community. You can tour the historic Copper Queen Mine or experience unique accommodations like the themed rooms at The Inn at Castle Rock.
Arkansas: Eureka Springs
Surrounded by the Ozark mountains, this town almost makes you feel like you’re in the Swiss Alps. Eureka Springs stands out for its Victorian architecture and artistic flair. Don’t forget to visit art galleries or plan for the May Festival of the Arts. Moreover, once a magnet for wellness seekers, the healing springs continue to draw visitors seeking relaxation and cultural richness.
California: Mendocino
It is a must-visit town because it’s a retreat from the ordinary with its ocean bluffs and backdrop of coastal scenery. In the little town, you’ll find Victorian homes and saltbox cottages. You can also savor local cuisine, explore pristine state parks, and enjoy a serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustle of California’s larger cities.
Colorado: Ouray
The small town of Ouray is located in the San Juan Mountains and has beautiful vistas and a historic atmosphere dating back to 1876. Ouray, celebrating its 148th anniversary in 2024, is often called the “Switzerland of America” for its massive mountain ranges. There are over 60 outdoor activities available year-round, so it’s excellent for large families.
Connecticut: Mystic
Did you know that Mystic was once a shipbuilding port? The shoreline village retains its maritime legacy with the Bascule Bridge and historic sea captain’s homes. Main Street features colorful shops and eateries, while the Mystic Seaport Museum and other attractions celebrate its rich past. Annual events and nearby casinos add to its appeal.
Delaware: Lewes
In 1631, the Dutch settled in Lewes, which is now a vibrant historic district with preserved homes and engaging museums. Cape Henlopen State Park provides diverse outdoor activities, like nature trails and bird sanctuaries, where you can learn about local wildlife. It also has historic sites like the Zwaanendael Museum to teach more about Lewes’s history.
Florida: Mount Dora
People often skip Mount Dora because it’s overshadowed by nearby Orlando. However, this lakefront retreat is an escape with a lively downtown and abundant green spaces. Mount Dora has over 30 festivals annually, including the Mount Dora Arts Festival. Outdoor enthusiasts can fish Lake Dora, visit the inland lighthouse, or enjoy the scenic Dora Canal.
Georgia: Dahlonega
An hour north of Atlanta lies the first major U.S. Gold Rush site, offering an authentic mountain getaway. The town doesn’t get much attention because it’s small and quiet. However, Dahlonega will draw you in with mountain vistas, waterfalls, and postcard-worthy wineries. You can also pan for gold, stroll through art galleries, shop at boutiques, and savor Georgia wines.
Hawaii: Hawi
Hawi, located on the Big Island’s northern tip, gives a glimpse of old Hawaii. It’s a quaint town that was once North Kohala’s sugar industry hub and now features lively plantation buildings housing art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Highlights include handmade crafts, 100% Kona coffee, and the award-winning Bamboo Restaurant & Gallery.
Idaho: Sandpoint
Next time you’re in Idaho, don’t skip the town of Sandpoint. At an elevation of just over 2,000 feet, this town, once driven by the lumber industry, has embraced tourism, thanks to its mild climate and outdoor recreation. What’s more, the town has abundant lakes, hiking trails, and a lively arts scene.
Illinois: Galena
In the early 19th century, a mineral rush put this town on the map, rivaling Chicago in size. Galena’s historic streets and beautifully preserved buildings attract tourists. Once part of the “Upper Mississippi Valley Lead-Zinc District,” it played a role in America’s lead mining history, influencing Native American and pioneer settlers.
Indiana: Nashville
This quaint village is perfect for a romantic getaway. It is also a wedding destination for people who want a nature-themed celebration. There are hundreds of craft, specialty, and antique shops, alongside live entertainment and theatre venues. You can go trekking or mountain biking if you’re an outdoor enthusiast.
Iowa: Pella
With its rich Dutch heritage, Pella is a place where history meets hospitality. The town remains vibrant in its annual Tulip Time Festival and the majestic windmill that graces its landscape. Established in 1847 by Dutch immigrants, Pella offers cultural experiences from Dutch bakeries to Wyatt Earp’s boyhood home.
Kansas: Lindsborg
Stepping into Lindsborg feels like visiting a Swedish village because of its Scandinavian heritage. This McPherson County is often called “Little Sweden U.S.A.” and presents a vibrant cultural experience. The Blacksmith’s Coffee Shop & Roastery, set in an 1874 building, serves breakfasts and freshly roasted coffee that embodies the town’s history.
Kentucky: Berea
In 1850, a loose community of scattered farms called the Glade existed without a central town and focused on horse racing. Berea, Kentucky, emerged from this background with a vision of an interracial community led by abolitionist Cassius Clay and Reverend John G. Fee. Berea is best recognized for its art festivals, historic restaurants, and buildings, and Berea College, a private liberal arts college.
Louisiana: Natchitoches
Strolling down Front Street in Natchitoches reveals a combination of European and Southern heritage. This original French colony, established in 1714, has wrought iron balconies and riverside views. Renowned for its vibrant festivals, bed and breakfasts, and historic plantations, Natchitoches is an underrated town in Louisiana.
Maine: Rockland
Once a vital hub for Maine’s lobster industry, Rockland’s working waterfront and expansive multi-use harbor tell a story of hardworking men and women. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art, as well as the Farnsworth Art Museum, make it an ideal destination for people who love visual artistry. This museum merges rich history with contemporary creativity.
Maryland: St. Michaels
St. Michaels has much to show with its maritime history and strategic role during the War of 1812. Established in the 1600s, it became a shipbuilding hub, producing swift schooners for privateering. Today, visitors can tour historic sites like the Cannonball House, which survived British bombardment, earning the town its intriguing nickname, “the town that fooled the British.”
Massachusetts: Rockport
Few places capture the essence of coastal New England, like Rockport. At the tip of Cape Ann, this town features incredible Atlantic views and an inspiring artistic community. With historical granite quarries and galleries, Rockport invites visitors to enjoy scenic walks, artistic exploration, and exceptional dining options.
Michigan: Saugatuck
Once a vital hub for Maine’s lobster industry, Rockland’s working waterfront and expansive multi-use harbor tell a story of hardworking men and women. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art, as well as the Farnsworth Art Museum, make it an ideal destination for people who love visual artistry. This museum merges rich history with contemporary creativity.
Minnesota: Lanesboro
Lanesboro, called the “Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota,” presents a retreat in the Root River Valley. Since 1868, this small town of under 750 residents has transformed from a struggling community into a hub for outdoor recreation, thanks to the 42-mile Root River State Trail and the town’s arts initiatives.
Mississippi: Ocean Springs
The Gulf Coast’s lesser-known town has strong historical roots. With origins dating back to 1699, Ocean Springs features a heritage valued by Native Americans and early French settlers. Today, this coastal town gives locals affordable living, excellent schools, and stunning waterfronts, making it the perfect place to settle down.
Missouri: Hermann
Often overlooked, this town along the Missouri River is a special place in the heart of the state. With its deep-rooted German heritage, Hermann hosts lively festivals like the Wurst Fest and Oktoberfest, drawing crowds for sausages, wines, and brews. Local wineries, including Stone Hill and Adam Puchta, produce exceptional wines.
Montana: Livingston
Along the Yellowstone River and surrounded by mountains, this Montana town offers many activities, such as hiking and fishing. With its streets filled with shops, museums, and dining options, Livingston invites visitors to experience its culture and serene landscape. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are also theatres to visit.
Nebraska: Brownville
Brownville features 19th-century landmarks like the Didier Log Cabin and the Brown-Carson House. Visitors can stroll along the Steamboat Trace Trail, enjoy local boutiques like Bird’s Nest Trading Post, and catch a show at the local theatre. Brownville’s early history includes notable figures like Robert W. Furnas, who contributed significantly to its development.
Nevada: Genoa
Genoa is a town at the bottom of the Sierra Nevada Range, just a short drive from Lake Tahoe and Reno. Historic Genoa features Mormon Station State Historic Park, where the first permanent trading post was established in 1851. Visitors might spot mule deer and enjoy scenic views along the Carson River Valley.
New Hampshire: Hanover
Hanover offers more than meets the eye, with its scenic riverside location and historic roots dating back to 1765. It is home to Dartmouth College, whose Baker Library features José Clemente Orozco frescoes, and the annual Dartmouth Winter Carnival. Nearby sites include the Augustus Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site and Boston Lot Lake.
New Jersey: Lambertville
It played a big role during the American Revolution, with George Washington’s army encamping where the bank now stands. The town’s past includes the Liberty Bell’s 1915 journey across Bridge Street. Celebrated by USA Today and Forbes, Lambertville offers picturesque streets, historic homes, and a strong community spirit.
New Mexico: Silver City
Originating as a silver boomtown in the 1870s, Silver City briefly hosted Billy the Kid, whose family left a lasting mark on local history. Today, Silver City thrives with a vibrant downtown, a four-year university, and a diverse business community, making it a noteworthy destination for travelers or people who want to relocate there.
New York: Skaneateles
Sitting on the shores of Skaneateles Lake, this village integrates history with tranquil lake views. Founded in the 1790s, it showcases preserved architecture like the Richard DeZeng House. With a population of just over 2,500, its serene environment and significant historical landmarks make it a tranquil getaway.
North Carolina: Beaufort
This coastal town has a history dating back to 1709. Beaufort offers a fascinating glimpse into early American life. Once known as Fishtown due to its thriving fishing industry, it was later renamed for the Duke of Beaufort. The town features around 150 historic homes with plaques marking their origins.
North Dakota: Medora
Not many Americans know that this North Dakota town serves as the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s South Unit. With its rugged Badlands, Medora has many activities, from hiking and road biking to wildlife spotting, including bison and wild horses. Additionally, the local scene is enriched by historic sites, golf courses, and dining options.
Ohio: Yellow Springs
Yellow Springs, with its 1,000-acre nature preserve and nearly 100 shops and eateries, has more than picturesque views. Earlier, it was a major health resort, but now it thrives with educational institutions and a flourishing business environment, making it a great destination for families to relocate or tourists to visit.
Oklahoma: Guthrie
Most towns, such as Guthrie, were significant during the Land Run of 1889, marking its founding Day as the town sprang to life with settlers claiming land. This city played a significant role in statehood, serving as Oklahoma’s first capital. Its well-preserved historic district and notable events like 89er Day offer glimpses into its past.
Oregon: Ashland
The Shasta Native Americans along Ashland Creek originally settled in Ashland. Later, European-American settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, attracted by the area’s resources. Founded in 1852 and incorporated in 1874, the city has evolved from a railroad hub to a modern, thriving community with a high quality of life.
Pennsylvania: Milford
The landscape and heritage of this town often go unnoticed. Originally part of William Penn’s Dutch Township, it sits in the Piedmont Plateau with diverse geology and a temperate climate. Milford features the Unami Creek Watershed, which presents clean water, forests, and a mix of historical and modern amenities.
Rhode Island: Newport
Newport, often overlooked beyond its famous mansions, has an excellent arts scene and scenic coastline. The town’s historic waterfront, buzzing shops, and restaurants complement its beautiful beaches. Newport’s annual Folk Festival and Jazz Festival attract visitors from around the world to show its cultural diversity.
South Carolina: Aiken
Once a bustling railroad hub, this South Carolina city became a winter haven for equestrians. Founded in 1835 as the terminus for a major rail line, it features parks where tracks once ran. With the state’s oldest farmer’s market and unique downtown layout, Aiken integrates history with modern architecture.
South Dakota: Deadwood
If you don’t visit Deadwood, you’re missing out on Wild West history. The town’s well-preserved buildings and the famous Deadwood Mountain Grand Casino add to its attractiveness. The nearby Mount Moriah Cemetery, the resting place of Wild Bill Hickok, offers a glimpse into its storied past.
Tennessee: Jonesborough
Jonesborough, known as the “Storytelling Capital of the World,” is rich in cultural heritage. The town’s historic downtown features charming shops, galleries, and the International Storytelling Center. Jonesborough’s annual storytelling festival attracts storytellers and visitors from around the globe and celebrates its rich oral tradition.
Texas: Fredericksburg
The town of Fredericksburg was founded by German immigrants in 1846. It gives visitors a peek into history with sites like the National Museum of the Pacific War and the historic Vereins-Kirche. Visitors can enjoy annual events such as Oktoberfest and the Gillespie County Fair, explore local wineries, and enjoy the Texas Hill Country.
Utah: Murray
In the heart of Utah’s Salt Lake Valley, Murray has a compelling history rooted in the 1847 arrival of Mormon pioneers and the establishment of the first smelters in the 1870s. The town, named after General Eli Murray, has attractions like the Murray City Museum and Murray Park, which makes it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.
Vermont: Stowe
Stowe, noted for its landscapes and outdoor activities, is a haven for nature lovers. The town’s charming downtown features novelty shops, galleries, and cozy cafes. Stowe’s Mount Mansfield has year-round outdoor adventures, such as winter skiing and summer hiking, so you can see the town’s wonders whenever you visit.
Virginia: Abingdon
Visitors find endless fun in Abingdon, from outdoor adventures in the surrounding mountains to strolls along the brick sidewalks of the downtown district. The town, a Revolutionary War muster site and a stop for pioneers on the Great Road, has a long history and welcomes everyone with its Southern hospitality.
Washington: La Conner
Stepping into Washington’s La Conner is like traveling through time, with its scenic waterfront and historical architecture. This underrated town has many cultural attractions, including three museums and outdoor sculptures, and is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and islands. Visitors can enjoy diverse activities like boutique shopping or hiking.
West Virginia: Lewisburg
Travelers will be drawn in by its welcoming atmosphere. The small town of 4,000, often celebrated by travel guides, offers attractions like the Historic Walking Tour, showcasing period architecture and landmarks. Adventure seekers can try the North House Museum escape room, while antique shops and local festivals provide endless entertainment.
Wisconsin: Bayfield
Situated on Lake Superior’s shores, Bayfield, Wisconsin’s smallest city, has beautiful views and a fascinating past. Dubbed the “Gateway to the Apostle Islands” and the “Berry Capital of Wisconsin,” it offers activities like island explorations, berry picking, and various water adventures like sailing.
Wyoming: Saratoga
Go into a world where Western tradition thrives, and local history is alive. Saratoga, Wyoming, shows you what it was like to live during Western times. You can explore the historic Wolf Hotel, dating back to 1893, and unwind at the Hobo Hot Springs. The Saratoga Hot Springs Resort adds variety with its microbrewery, day spa, and adventure options.