The 18 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the United States

A European-style village on the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea, also known as Carmel, is a popular tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why. Whether visitors want to hike down to the white, soft sandy beach or meander to explore the town’s charming architecture, boutiques, or delicious food haunts, it’s all easily done on foot. Other wonderful must-visits include the San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission, a compound which features a basilica church, several small museums, and stunning landscape, founded in 1771 by Father Junipero Serra. A town popular with creative individuals, the village also hosts many events and festivals throughout the year, including the Carmel Bach Festival.

Located on Port Royal Island, Beaufort, South Carolina is brimming with beauty at every turn with its moss-draped oak trees and breathtaking historic homes lining the streets. Featuring a historic downtown, the area is perfect for leisurely strolls while discovering unique shops, incredible art and antiques, plus delicious cuisine. Beaufort is also a history buff’s dream with plenty of historical sites and museums, including the Beaufort History Museum. The more adventurous traveler is not left out in this town, as plenty of recreational activities are to be explored from biking to kayaking to golfing. To really appreciate all Beaufort has to offer, look into taking a professional tour before going off on your own.

Situated on the Mississippi River in Northwestern Illinois, Galena is a lovely community with a romantic feel, offering something for everyone from shoppers to foodies. Its Main Street is brimming with gorgeous, 19th-century buildings housing specialty shops, art galleries, antiques stores and eclectic dining choices, while the rest of the village features many historical sites, including the Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historical Site. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the area as well with adventures such as hiking, boating, plus winter activities. With so many exciting things to explore plus the town’s friendly vibe, people will want to return again and again to this enchanting gem.

People from all over the world visit Madison, Georgia for its breathtaking mix of Antebellum and Victorian homes, scenic outdoor spaces, and slower pace of life. A photographer’s dream, Madison has something worth capturing on film at every turn from the majestic oak trees to small cottages. If antique shopping is on the agenda, the downtown area is the place to go as it’s brimming with antique dealers. Other attractions to explore include the Morgan County African-American Museum and Heritage Hall, which is the most visited attraction in the town.

Nashville, Indiana is a quaint community located in Brown County, an area located in the southern portion of the state. An artists’ colony, Nashville, along with the surrounding area, is a wonderful destination for any art lover as the county is full of unique studios where artists can showcase and sell their works. The charming village also features public art, which can be discovered by meandering through the streets. The area is also an outdoor lover’s paradise, with many activities waiting to explored, including mountain biking and zip lining.

A feast for the eyes, Ouray — named after Chief Ouray — is a gem of a town nestled in the Rockies in Southwest Colorado. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, this mountain community is not only known for its panoramic vistas but also its sulfur-free hot springs — perfect for soaking and relaxing after a long day exploring. Ouray is also home to an incredible ice park as well as other outdoor adventures, including miles of hiking trails and for the adventurous driver, Jeeping. Around town, guests will find beautifully restored Queen Anne Victorian architecture housing galleries, shops, and dining establishments.

A vibrant community situated on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend is a historical Victorian seaport. Indeed, there are only three in the country. With a thriving art scene plus numerous outdoor adventures, every visitor is sure to find something of interest in this picturesque town. For architecture buffs, the historic uptown district features colorful Victorian mansions while the historic downtown area is home to other century-old buildings. In addition to the unique dining establishments, galleries, and shops found in Port Townsend, the town also hosts many events throughout the year, such as the Victorian Festival and award-winning theatrical productions at Key City Public Theater.

An absolutely stunning destination no matter the time of year, Stowe is a historic gem located in Northern Vermont. The quintessential destination for adventure seekers, Stowe is brimming with outdoor activities from skiing and other winter sports to hiking, biking, canoeing and more in the summer. For the arts and culture lover, the town is home to a lively performing arts scene along with museums and art galleries featuring everything from photography to sculpture. The foodie crowd will also be impressed as this small town features many award-winning dining establishments creating mouthwatering delicacies.

Another historical goldmine, Taos is a lovely town located in north-central New Mexico. An enchanting mountain community, Taos is a great place to explore the arts, nature, and history. Shoppers and art lovers will enjoy meandering through the different plazas and streets searching for the perfect gift for a loved one or piece of art to adorn their home. History and culture buffs can visit the Taos Pueblo to meet the local Native American community. Nature lovers will love the variety of activities from hiking, climbing, horseback riding, and, of course, skiing in the winter.

Situated in the northwest portion of Montana, Whitefish is another year-round destination that outdoor adventurers will thoroughly love. A charming mountain town located near Glacier National Park, the townspeople are a friendly, laid-back group who enjoy welcoming visitors any time of the year. Spring and autumn are great times to go biking while the summer season is perfect for going horseback riding or partaking in water sports.

Sedona is Arizona‘s desert gem: surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national pine forest, red-rock mountains and steep canyons, these sacred lands of ‘healing and spiritual renewal’ make for the perfect escape. Revel in the peaceful nature of this desert town, with its sunset views, glowing mountains, and mild climate, plus, there’s plenty of outdoor activities to take part in, like hiking, biking, and golfing, along with relaxing spa treatments, shops, art galleries, and wine tasting. Pro tip: don’t miss Bell Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, or the Honanki ruins. Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

Jackson commonly referred to as ‘Jackson Hole’, is a town in the Jackson Hole valley of Wyoming. Don’t be fooled by this remote location. This city is booming with life, complete with restaurants, galleries, shops, museums, and spa facilities. For the outdoorsy, there’s fishing, hiking, golfing, rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking; surrounded by the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Grand Teton National Park, and Yellowstone National Park, Jackson undoubtedly boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state.

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

St. Augustine, said to be the oldest city in the States, is a quaint, historic gem located on the northeast coast of Florida. Trapped in 17th-century America, St. Augustine transports visitors to another era with its Spanish colonial architecture, hidden courtyards, horse-drawn carriages, brick-lined streets, and European vibe. Be sure to head to St. Augustine Beach or Crescent Beach for a taste of the sandy coastline; get in touch with nature at the Anastasia State Park and, don’t miss the town’s centuries-old Spanish fortress, Castillo de San Marcos.

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

Nags Head, an area of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is the state’s most prized beach, recognizable by the iconic Bodie Lighthouse. This summer destination was North Carolina‘s first tourist colony, established in the 1830s, and is rich in history. Snorkel famous shipwrecks, hang glide over the famous Jockey’s Ridge sand dunes or swim in the calm waters. For a true Nags Head experience, rent a waterside cottage and indulge in seaside eats like soft shell crab and oysters.

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

Gulf Shores has been Alabama‘s hidden treasure for many years. Known for its soft, white-sand beaches and clear waters, this coastal town is a quieter alternative to other overcrowded beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. Here, get a taste of just-off-the-boat seafood, beachside relaxation, and the sunshine in a peaceful setting. There’s also plenty of water sports, golfing, deep-sea fishing, and zip lining to keep you busy, though, taking in the scenery should keep you busy enough.

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

Newport, an upscale beach town on Aquidneck Island in Rhode Island, is known for its cobblestone streets, 19th-century mansions, and yacht-filled harbor. This beachside town screams old-school charm with its brick-lined sidewalks, chic boutiques, and art galleries set along the scenic waterfront. Take part in its many hosted events, like the America’s Cup, Newport Folk Festival, and the Newport Jazz Festival. Discover the beautiful beaches and rocky cliffs, learn about this seaside town’s rich history at Fort Adams, or, take a drive down Bellevue Avenue for a trip to the ‘Gilded Age.’

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

Located amidst the wondrous Thousand Island Region in northern New York, Alexandria Bay is a tiny, mesmerizing village surrounded by serene waters and lush foliage. This magical spot along the St. Lawrence River is where fantasy meets reality. 1,864 islands dot the waters, along with historic mansions and castles. Hop aboard a helicopter or hot air balloon for a panoramic view, boat through the canals, discover the region’s most famous castle, Boldt Castle, or venture to the many islands and state parks, including Wellesley Island, Keewaydin State Park, and Wellesley Island State Park.

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.

Cape May is New Jersey’s oldest seaside resort and ‘crowned jewel’ of the state. Named as having some of the best beaches in America, this southern peninsula village isn’t just laden with pristine beaches. Its historic charm is vibrant and alive with 19th-century architecture, upscale restaurants, and a hip vibe. Leave the car, and explore the town, a National Historic Landmark, by foot or bike. Head to Higbee Wildlife Management Area for a secluded beach experience, or, venture into Cape May Point State Park for a view of the Cape May Lighthouse.

Recommended by Alexia Wulff.