48 Charming Small Towns You Haven’t Heard of (But Should Visit ASAP)

Small Town Charm

When planning a vacation, most people tend to go to the more popular locations, right? It’s usually some metropolis they’ve read about or towns and attractions that have been recommended by friends and family that make their bucket list. But with that method, you miss out on some truly unique locations.

After all, there are plenty of small towns in America that are worth traveling to, even if you didn’t know they existed. So it’s time to hit the roads less traveled and check out some unsung hot spots across the US. They might not have appeared on your radar, but they will after reading this! Here are 48 charming towns you haven’t heard of but should visit ASAP!

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Damariscotta, Maine

This boating and fishing small town on the salty Damariscotta River will have you wondering why river towns aren’t more popular. The shores are filled with oyster shells that historians say are from Native American gatherings 2,500 years ago.

Galena, Illinois

The historical charm of this mining town’s six-block Main Street will make you feel like you took a time machine to a different period. After you explore downtown, make sure you don’t miss the Old Market House and the Historical Society and Museum.

Pella, Iowa

Even though this midwest town is charming and quiet the majority of the year, it transforms in May for its annual Tulip Time Festival. To honor their dutch culture, they change the streets to look like the Netherlands and host an amazing parade.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

This small town is located on the Shenandoah River and is the ideal getaway for nature lovers. There are even eight national parks and heritage sites you can visit in the region.

Welch, West Virginia

What was once a coal-mining town today is full of history due to the Kimball War Memorial. We recommend grabbing a picnic basket and sitting next to the Elkhorn Creek that runs through the town and into the Tug Fort.

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

This motto in this town is “The Oldest Summer Resort in America,” and its perfect location on Lake Winnipesaukee proves it. People from all over Boston, New Hampshire, and even Hollywood (Drew Barrymore once vacationed here!) vacation here during the sunny summer months.

Corning, New York

This southern Finger Lakes area offers something for everyone and has become a favorite for destination weddings. From wineries and breweries to panoramic views of the gorgeous lake, and let’s not forget the restaurants filled with top-notch food.

Skaneateles, New York

This picture-perfect village is right on the edge of Skaneateles Lake in Upstate New York. With gorgeous and peaceful surroundings, you can spend your summer days relaxing in a kayak or hiking the trails. As a bonus, you have prime shopping outlets right outside of this small town.

Keene, New Hampshire

Even though downtown Keene is a popular destination, its countryside and lakes are the real treasures of this community. Don’t miss taking a tour of the covered bridges and hike up Mount Monadnock while you’re here.

Ferndale, California

You’ll understand why this city’s population of 1,372 live within one square mile when you see how adorable it is downtown. Locals know it as the “Cream City” for its very well-preserved Victorian storefronts and homes that allow you to escape the daily chaos.

Healdsburg, California

This northern Sonoma County small town is a lesser-known region for wine tasting, but just as beautiful. Once you’ve had your fill of pinot, there’s still lots to do, including biking, hiking, and even canoeing.

Franklin, Tennessee

About 21 miles south of Nashville, you’ll find a much quieter downtown experience that still offers a lot of history. Make your way through antique shops and restaurants, then catch a live show at one of their famous venues, like The Franklin Theatre.

Lanesboro, Minnesota

The bed and breakfast capital of the region, this small town with a population of just 754, offers recreation for couples and great outdoor adventures for families in the bluffs of the Root River Valley.

Little Compton, Rhode Island

This fishing town, known as Rhode Island’s secret coast, originally belonged to the Sakonnet tribe. It’s a place for locals to escape to the beach, take in local artwork and maybe grab a lobster roll.

Woods Hole, Massachusetts

Near famous Cape Cod, you’ll find this tiny, bustling town that was once a pass-through destination for Martha’s Vineyard ferry travelers. But now, it has become a fantastic getaway thanks to its waterfront filled with restaurants and shopping.

Marietta, Ohio

When this town was settled, back in the 1700s, it was named in honor of Marie Antoinette. Today, it’s a historic riverboat town perfect for families who seek out vacations full of outdoor adventures.

Cedar Key, Florida

This secluded beach community is more about small town living rather than the hustle and bustle of busy cities. So much so that the restaurant and buffet-filled streets of the historic district are filled with bicycles instead of cars.

Stuart, Florida

Stuart used to be known as the Sailfish Capital of the World, thanks to its closeness to the Indian River Lagoon and the St. Lucie River. The small town’s warm climate is perfect for people who enjoy getting away from the bitter winter but are looking for less populated destinations.

Grand Haven, Michigan

Near the shores of Lake Michigan and the Grand River, you’ll find this appropriately named town offering wine tasting, sand dune riding, and an annual Coast Guard Festival at the end of each summer season.

Charlevoix, Michigan

The small town of Charlevoix has lots to offer, from a legendary castle to mushroom houses and a stunning red lighthouse. And if you’re obsessed with all things lavender, this is the best place for you because Charlevoix is home to a massive Lavender Hill Farm, abundant with 25 different varieties.

Frederick, Maryland

Just an hour’s drive away from Baltimore and Washington, DC, you’ll find this small town surrounding wineries, mountains, and orchards. Its downtown area has even been designated as the Arts & Entertainment District, where you can see live music, dancing, and much more.

Bisbee, Arizona

Bisbee was a significant silver and copper mining town back in the day, but it’s now a charming small town, home to artists and retirees. With houses on the cliffs’ edges and a mine cavern that you can still explore, it’s a very picturesque experience.

Shelburne, Vermont

Along the shores of Lake Champlain in this quiet town, most famous for Shelburne Farms, you’ll find a series of barns where you can milk cows and watch cheesemakers make cheddar.

Damascus, Virginia

Huddled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia is this small town known as “Trail Town.” It draws hikers and bikers since it’s at the crossroads of some of the most beautiful trails in the state.

Fredericksburg, Texas

This small town has German roots, and older locals call it Fritztown. But the Magic Mile, an area with more than 150 stores and some of the best wine tasting in Texas, is what keeps the tourists coming back.

Frenchtown, New Jersey

You’ll forget you’re even in New Jersey if you spend a few minutes in this charming, serene town. It’s an excellent spot for hiking and biking. Just be sure to check out their Bastille Day festival if you visit in July.

Gallup, New Mexico

This small town is known as the Indian jewelry capital of the world. It’s full of Native American culture, and the area embraces it across the board. The High Desert Trail System is a fantastic way to take in the sights on foot.

Sitka, Alaska

Even though this small town is only accessible by air or sea, once you arrive, you’ll be wonderfully surprised by how unique it is. It’s nuzzled inside a spruce and hemlock rain forest. There’s even a tour to spot humpback whales.

Leavenworth, Washington

This town has a Bavarian village feel to it that makes it a can’t-miss during Oktoberfest and Christmas. Enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Northwest on nearby hiking trails, or relax with some shopping and wine tasting.

Springdale, Utah

At the edge of Zion National Park, you’ll find a small village where visitors can soak up the breathtaking mountain landscape as they enjoy the local brewery or shopping at one of the many crystal shops.

Bardstown, Kentucky

If you like whiskey, Bardstown is the place for you! You may not be familiar with it, but it’s the bourbon capital of the world. It’s home to many distilleries, including Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark.

Hood River, Oregon

Along the Columbia River, this small town offers outdoor activities for adventure seekers during any time of year, including skiing, windsurfing, and mountain biking. After spending your day outdoors, you can explore one of the three microbreweries located downtown.

Cottage Grove, Oregon

Frequently called the covered bridge capital of the US, this town offers a trail dotted with seven covered bridges that connect the village across a rolling hillside and a series of rivers and waterfalls. The gorgeous setting is home to plenty of great hiking spots, as well as a few cozy B&B retreats.

Natchitoches, Louisiana

History buffs are going to want to visit this location! It’s the oldest permanent settlement of the Louisiana Purchase. Nowadays, you can stroll around the 33-block district, and while here, try one of their famous meat pies.

Berlin, Maryland

Both Tuck Everlasting and Runaway Bride were filmed here. And it’s not surprising! Strolling the streets and hitting the antique shops instantly makes you forget what year you’re in!

St. Genevieve, Missouri

Not all wine is made in California in the US. This French-influenced small town, founded by French Canadian colonists, is home to several vineyards. Don’t miss its historical cornerstone church that goes by the town’s name.

Davis, Oklahoma

Find Turner Falls Park in Davis. It’s a favorite swimming hole for locals, where you’ll find an impressive 77ft tall waterfall that you can swim in. After taking a dip, check out the rock castle that is built into the nearby hillside.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

This location is known as the “Switzerland of Pennsylvania.” Go here if you want to try white water rafting or hike your day away, then roam the quaint town afterward.

Guilford, Connecticut

This quiet small town has been around since 1639 and is considered one of the largest collections of historic homes in New England. But even if you’re not into history, the shops on the green, local seafood, and the serene marina are more than worth your trip.

Lead, South Dakota

Plan to visit Mount Rushmore? Skip the bustling Rapid City and stay in this small town instead. It was once s a mining town and has since lost the coal but kept the charm. Make sure to check out the Black Hills Mining Museum to gain a deeper appreciation of the town’s history.

Shipshewana, Indiana

This cute town has an Amish community and the largest flea market in the country. It features a whopping 900 booths that cover 100 acres of land.

War Eagle, Arkansas

This small town’s famous War Eagle Mill was built in 1832 and has been destroyed and rebuilt three times, yet it’s still working to this day. The township hosts an elaborate craft fair that DIY lovers won’t want to miss during the Autumn season.

Creede, Colorado

This historical mining town feels like walking into an old western movie… Which it did! Johnny Depp shot a few scenes here for his film Lone Ranger. The downtown shops and surrounding nature adventures let you make your visit as quiet or busy as you desire.

Abilene, Kansas

This small town is where President Dwight D. Eisenhower grew up, which is why they have a library and museum dedicated to him.

Black Mountain, North Carolina

Black Mountain is considered one of the prettiest small towns in the US, huddled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a community of 7,500. Take a stroll through the Town Square, and you’ll discover stunning landscapes, the town’s famous rocking chairs, and of course, many hiking trails, campgrounds, and waterfalls.

Boone, North Carolina

It makes sense that this small town is named after American pioneer Daniel Boone since most visitors hike and enjoy the local Blue Ridge Mountains. While visiting this township, you’ll find many Appalachian storytellers and bluegrass musicians here.

Milton, Delaware

Milton is located on the shores of the Broadkill River and is just a few miles away from Delaware Bay. Many go to visit the famous Dogfish Head Brewing Company.

Canton, Mississippi

In this southern small town, the courthouse square is trendy. It’s full of historic buildings and shopping, including the Canton Flea Market. At night, escape to the east side, which is dotted with many adorable B&Bs.

…Did we miss YOUR small town? Let us know in the comments section below!

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