We Found the Most Charming Small Town to Visit in Every State

Tourists flock to this southern Alabama enclave for its white sand beaches and unbelievably blue waters. Explore Orange Beach's bountiful trails and award-winning restaurants when you’re not taking a dip along the Gulf shore.

This town, located 200 miles south of Anchorage, is known as the Halibut Fishing Capital of the World, and the City of Peonies. With awe-inspiring volcanoes and majestic mountains peppering the landscape, its spectacular views make it a snapshot-worthy destination. Be sure to stroll down Homer Spit, a popular strip for shops and restaurants like the Chartroom.

This geological wonderland is a remarkable sight for visitors and residents alike. The city's red rock formations are a main draw, but thanks to its year-round sunny weather, it's also home to annual festivals like the popular Sedona Mountain Bike Festival and the Run Sedona 5K & 10K. Head to Sedona Real Inns & Suites for a relaxing stay that's near hiking trails.

With Victorian homes flanking the winding mountainside streets, this secluded city is brimming with historic flair: In fact, its entire downtown area is on the National Register of Historic Places. Outdoor activities abound at Beaver Lake, where you'll find water sports, camping, fishing, and mountain biking.

This European-style town is in a class all its own. With nearly 100 art galleries, including Erin Hanson Gallery and Travis Hall Fine Art, it's a cultural haven. The city's attractions also include premium shopping, exquisite dining, and, of course, access to beautiful beaches along the coast.

This old mining town in the heart of the San Juan Mountains offers historic sites, abundant outdoor activities, and mesmerizing scenery.

In the winter, it's a recreational paradise where visitors can sled, ski, or hop on a snowmobile. Fishing, hiking, rafting, and biking rule in hotter weather. Book a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to relive the "Golden Age" of mining.

Settled in 1654, Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village and a safe harbor for tall ships to weather a storm. The city honors its rich past, while embracing its quintessential New England charm, and colorful local shops and homey restaurants line the streets. In the fall, visitors and locals line up at B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill, the only steam-powered cider mill in the U.S., for a taste of its famous cider and fresh donuts.

Just 10 minutes south of downtown Wilmington, New Castle is known for its numerous historic structures. Stroll along cobblestone streets or sandy beaches in this quaint city overlooking the Delaware River. Thanks to its preservation efforts, it remains one of the most important colonial and federal villages in the country.

As the only place in the world where people can legally experience swimming with manatees, Crystal River is a gem of Florida's Nature Coast. In addition to providing access to this beloved endangered species, the city offers a variety of attractions like the Florida Tree Top Adventure and a local escape room.

Just an hour northwest of Atlanta and one hour south of Chattanooga, Adairsville is an often-overlooked slice of paradise. Dotted with a handful of mom-and-pop shops, the 1902 Stock Exchange & Public Square Opera House and Maggie Mae's Tea Room, this bespoke town is ideal for an off-the-beaten path getaway. The charming Barnsley Resort is chock full of various outdoor activities, and offers individual cottage accommodations.

With stunning ocean views and ample wide-open spaces, Waialua is the perfect locale for those seeking serenity and breathtaking natural beauty.

This scenic rural Central Idaho mountain town is situated along the Salmon River, better known as the "The River of No Return." A hotbed for whitewater rafting, it's ripe with opportunities for outdoor thrill-seekers.

Galena is an ideal getaway from Chicago, as it's a three-hour drive from the city. From snowshoeing at Casper Blugg Land & Water Reserve in the winter to watching hot air balloon races in the summer, this midwestern town offers plenty of fun to enjoy all year round.

Brown County is dubbed the "Artist Colony of the Midwest" thanks to its flourishing art scene, with murals, public installations, and eye-catching sculptures at every turn.

Known for its famous covered bridges, Winterset is a picturesque town with down-home charm that inspired the revered love story The Bridges Over Madison County. The novel-turned-movie isn't the town's only pop culture association; as the birthplace of John Wayne, it's home to the only museum dedicated to the legendary actor.

From greyhound racing to Wild West re-enactments, Abilene offers an array of unique experiences to explore. Known for its friendly community, it's also home to the C.W. Parker Carousel, the oldest operational Parker carousel known to exist.

Situated on the northeastern edge of Lake Cumberland just west of the Daniel Boone National Forest, this bluegrass city is bustling with activities. Locals love the myriad of outdoor events featuring local eats and music, including the annual Foodstock and Moonlight festivals.

Craving crawfish? Breaux Bridge is full of Cajun restaurants serving the mouth-watering specialty. Every May, thousands of seafood lovers come for a taste of the state's world-famous crustacean at their annual festival. After grubbing, take a walk downtown to shop for antiques and one-of-a-kind fashions.

Camden is a four-season community on Penobscot Bay, dotted with stunning 19th-century homes. Situated between the mountains and the sea, it boasts gorgeous scenery, award-winning cuisine, cultural hubs, and outdoor adventures to suit all tastes.

Oakland hosts popular festivals in all four seasons. Stop by Winterfest to see marvelous ice sculptures, or witness the beauty of changing leaves during the annual Autumn Glory festival in the fall.

Serene in the winter and bustling in summer, Oak Bluffs offers the best of both worlds. This historic Martha's Vineyard town has gorgeous beaches and world-class restaurants, as well as, of course, the iconic gingerbread cottages at the Oak Bluffs Campground.

From exploring ancient castles to splashing around Avalanche Bay, the state's largest indoor waterpark, families can make unforgettable memories no matter the season.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore untouched wilderness in Ely, with its stretches of waterways and shorelines. Spend the night stargazing near the Boundary Waters, the largest wilderness area east of the Rockies, for a memorable slumber.

Southern hospitality is a main attraction in Columbus, aptly dubbed "The City That Has It All" for its popular events, historic landmarks, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly activities. Be sure to stop by the Tennessee Williams House Museum & Welcome Center for a peek at the legendary playwright's first home.

Overlooking the Missouri River, Boonville is almost halfway between Kansas City and St. Louis and sits at the intersection of north and south. After exploring the city's rich past, take a bike ride or walk the 237-mile-long Katy Trail for a pleasantly active afternoon.

Surrounded by three beautiful mountain ranges, Ennis is a western town known for outdoor activities like trout fishing, hunting, and hiking. Stay at the 320 Ranch, a 110-year-old homestead transformed into a sprawling ranch with gourmet cowboy meals, log cabins, and activities for kids.

Named after a fur trading manager, Chadron is a friendly and scenic college town. With picturesque parks and untapped landscapes, one can easily get lost in the town's natural splendor.

Step back in time in Virginia City, located 12 miles southwest of Reno. With its wooden boardwalk and buildings that generally date from the 1860s, it's a unique place where visitors can glimpse what life was like in an Old West town.

Travelers to Littleton are sure to get a warm welcome thanks to the joyful bronze statue of Pollyanna that stands in front of downtown's Littleton Public Library. The tribute to hometown author Eleanor H. Porter is a symbol of optimism and cheer—fitting for a place that boasts friendliness and the world's longest candy counter.

This seaside resort town is known for its beaches and boardwalks. In winter, dodge the cold by visiting one of the town's local museums, or take a guided trolley tour for a look at the city's history.

Set within stunning mountains, Cloudcroft is surrounded by 480,000 acres of open forest—ideal for hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, and horseback riding. If you don't fancy outdoor activities, Cloudcroft is also home to big events like the Badass Mountain Music Festival and the July Jamboree Arts and Crafts Show.

Located among the majestic mountains and peaceful lakes of the Adirondacks, Saranac Lake's beauty shines at every turn. A seasonal getaway for many, it offers year-round outdoor fun from skiing to kayaking. Be sure to stop by The Garagery for top-notch performances and open-mic comedy.

Home of Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi River, the town's mountains make Burnsville a literal breath of fresh air. Rent a cozy cabin at the Yummy Mud Puddle or Private Mountain Chalet for a homey feel. If hotels are more your speed, North Carolina's oldest continuously operating hotel, NuWray, will begin a new chapter after a full-scale restoration of the 16,500-square-foot Colonial-style inn.

Popular among retired couples and families, New Salem is a quiet community that honors its past. With a collection of museums, visitors can take a trip back in time to see how early residents lived. Travelers can't miss the must-see attraction, The World's Largest Holstein Cow landmark, which stands 38 feet high and 50 feet long atop School Hill.

The oldest city in Ohio's wealth of remarkable history includes a meaningful role in the Underground Railroad, with local activists helping enslaved people escape to freedom. Today, a lot of the historical sites are preserved and surrounded by natural beauty. Those who want to learn more about the city's storied past can opt for one of the town's many guided tours.

Heaven on earth for nature lovers, Broken Bow boasts an abundance of outdoor diversions. Nestled between the Kiamichi and Ouachita Mountains, visitors and residents can take in the sights and sounds of feathered friends at the Red Slough Wildlife Management Area, which has more than 300 bird species.

Popular for rock climbing and hiking, this town splendidly blends the past with the present. With 19th-century storefronts juxtaposed with modern restaurants and cultural outposts, the downtown area has a unique vibe. Thanks to the year-round sunny weather, Sisters is also host to festivals and events like the world's largest outdoor quilt show.

New Hope is a family-friendly escape from the big city, adjacent to the Delaware River just an hour outside of Philadelphia. Whether you walk the trails at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve or dine at Stella of New Hope for spectacular views overlooking the river, you'll find a colorful town with many attractions.

Located on Conanicut Island, the second-largest island in Narragansett Bay, Jamestown epitomizes serenity. With gorgeous parks, historic farms, and cozy cafes, this historic coastal gem is one of the state's most treasured towns.

Situated in the southern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Travelers Rest is overflowing with natural amenities that keep guests coming back year after year. Known for its laidback, outdoorsy vibe, the town's popular Swamp Rabbit Trail offers a 22-mile bicycling greenway.

Deadwood might be best known for its historic re-enactments, but it has plenty of modern-day fun for families. Feeling brave? Get an up-close-and-personal look at the black bears roaming around Bear Country USA (from the safety of your vehicle, of course).

The Great Smoky Mountains and winding hills are top of mind when it comes to this mountain resort city with a sprawling suburban feel. Partake in ziplining and whitewater rafting, or walk across the longest pedestrian skybridge in North America.

Home to some of the state's most beautiful parks, this Hill Country region is known for its limestone bluffs, deep canyons, and bald cypress. For those seeking a taste of the town, opt for a sip at one of the area's many wineries and distilleries such as Bell Springs Winery or Treaty Oak Distilling.

With access to two of Utah's most popular national parks, Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Moab is a retreat for nature enthusiasts, and its bright red rocks are a scenic marvel.

From farm-to-table cuisine to world-famous craft beers, culinary delights abound in this picture-perfect city. Nestled at the foot of Mount Mansfield, this northern Vermont resort town is the perfect getaway for winter thrill-seekers.

Sure, there are local farms, but the name "Farmville" doesn't fully capture what this charming town has to offer. It's home to both Longwood University and Hampden-Sydney College, and a hub for history buffs and outdoor adventurers. With various nearby bodies of water, it's ideal for boating and fishing.

This western Washington town near the base of the Olympic Mountains is drenched in natural beauty. It's also one of the driest regions in the Pacific Northwest, with average annual rainfall of only 16 inches. If you're planning a trip to the "Lavender Capital of North America," a visit to a lush lavender farm is a must to get a whiff of the aromatic plant.

This small town is big on folklore. Stories about a local mysterious creature called the Mothman have been told for decades (and even inspired a book-turned-movie). Beyond the cryptozoological myth, Point Pleasant offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities, like fishing and kayaking. If the Mothman tale does pique your interest, be sure to stop by the statue erected in its honor and snap a selfie with the red-eyed half-human, half-insect monster.

From unique museums like the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame to guided forest trail rides at Spider Lake Ranch Riding Stable, Hayward is a worthy Wisconsin destination.

Located in the Big Horn Basin of northwest Wyoming, Thermopolis claims to have the world's largest mineral hot springs. In addition to the hot water that cascades down in Hot Springs State Park, the city is home to the Wyoming Dinosaur Center, which houses thousands of fossils discovered in the area and around the world.