12 Beautiful Small Towns in the US That Will Make You Want To Move Immediately

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The United States may have incredible cities, but its small-town destinations are truly remarkable. From charming mountain villages to coastal retreats, the most beautiful small towns in the US are truly stunning.

Cities like New York and Los Angeles are world-famous tourist attractions that draw millions of international visitors annually. Because of their museums, landmarks, and food destinations, most travelers spend their entire time exploring one or two cities.

However, many US locals will say these travelers are missing out. In the country’s best small towns, you’ll get a rewarding travel experience you can’t find anywhere else. Below are the 12 most beautiful small towns in America.

Meredith, New Hampshire

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Meredith is a small town tucked away in central New Hampshire. Few destinations in the US can compare for scenic beauty and small-town charm.

Downtown has several historic buildings and amazing restaurants on the lakeshore. There are boat cruises, fishing adventures, and hiking trails. When you get your fill of natural sights, visit the area’s craft breweries and cozy taverns for an incredible food experience.

You can catch the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, which takes you through the forested countryside studded with lakes. During the autumn, the region comes alive in one of the best fall color displays in the country.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Jim Thorpe is a small rural abode with plenty to offer visitors. It’s just over two hours from New York City, but it feels like a world away.

The town has a rustic charm, beautiful rural architecture, and a welcoming vibe. You can step into art museums such as The Stabin Museum or walk into history at the 19th-century mansion that houses the Asa Packer Mansion Museum.

For wilderness adventure, hit the trails to the surrounding natural wonders, such as the Glen Onoko Falls and Jeans Run Falls. After hiking and sightseeing, you’ll love the town’s renowned restaurants and cafes for mountain comfort food.

Pawleys Island, South Carolina

The 12 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast awleys Island, South Carolina_ — © Steve / Adobe Stock

Pawleys Island is one of many small and beautiful towns on the South Carolina coast. In town, you’ll see historic architecture and some of the most hospitable local hangouts in the South.

Walk through the classic antebellum homes and learn about the town’s long history. Head out on the historic Pawleys Island Pier to get a view of the beautiful shoreline.

When you’re done relaxing on the shores and exploring the historic homes and buildings, head across the causeway to the mainland. Here, you can experience some of South Carolina’s best golf courses and fishing.

Cashiers, North Carolina

Cashiers is one of the most beautiful small towns in the South. It sits in the middle of the lush Blue Ridge Mountains and has endless natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere.

In its historic downtown area, you’ll find fun boutiques, antique stores, and restaurants serving delicious homemade cuisine. Don’t miss stopping by breweries like Whiteside Brewing Company to sample the local craft beers.

Outside of town, you’ll have hundreds of hiking trails nearby. These paths take you to magnificent viewpoints, waterfalls, historic sites, and famous places for outdoor activities, such as the Cashiers Sliding Rock.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Yellow Springs is a Midwestern hidden gem. It has beautiful nature, quaint family-run shops and boutiques, and all the small-town charm you’d want in one of the most beautiful small towns in the country.

You can walk on the campus of Antioch College and explore the historic homes nearby. Then, head downtown to visit the beautiful Yellow Springs Brewery and shops on Xenia Avenue. You may even rub shoulders with a famous comedian who calls the town home.

For outdoor enthusiasts, nothing beats the town’s trails and hiking areas. The highlight of the area is its namesake, the Yellow Spring. This small and iconic waterfall is just one of the many natural treasures and cascades in the Glen Helen Nature Preserve.

Sewanee, Tennessee

Sewanee is a small college town nestled in the heart of Tennessee’s mountains. Stunning hiking trails and nature reserves surround the town, as well as country roads that belong to famous folk songs.

Walk around The University Of The South campus and see historical architecture. Then, check out the town’s small shops and restaurants.

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One of Sewanee’s top highlights is hiking. Several trails lead from the town into the surrounding forests. You’ll come to magnificent views, waterfalls, and historical sites that tell tales of the town’s storied past.

Marfa, Texas

Marfa is a tiny town in the western deserts of Texas full of mysterious phenomena, including the famous Marfa Lights. The town is also a haven for artists and musicians who come to showcase their work and feel inspired by its incredible beauty and creative vibes.

In downtown Marfa, you’ll experience art galleries, boutique stores, and taverns that feel like they’re from the 19th-century cowboy days. You’ll walk through historic architecture like the 19th century Presidio County Courthouse and see famous western attractions like the Stardust Motel Sign.

Outside of town are some of West Texas’ most popular outdoor art destinations, such as the Giant Marfa Mural. Nearby, there are hiking trails which take you high above the town. Be aware that Marfa is famous for aliens, mysterious lights, and ghost sightings!

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka may be remote, but it’s one of the country’s most beautiful small towns. The town sits on a secluded stretch of the North Pacific, several miles from the state’s capital, Juneau.

The town has a thriving fishing industry, and outdoor enthusiasts flock throughout the year for hiking, boating, kayaking, fishing, whale watching, and other wildlife adventures. Nearby, you can spot grizzlies in the mountain wilderness preserves or see orcas swimming near the town’s harbor.

Sitka is most famous for its landscape. Snow-capped mountains and volcanoes surround it, creating one of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. In town, you can visit museums such as the Sitka Historical Society & Museum or experience the town’s booming food scene.

Leadville, Colorado

Leadville is the highest town in the country, at 10,000 feet. It’s also the home of Colorado’s long-forgotten mining industry, which brought thousands of people to the area in the 19th century.

Today, the town is full of antique shops, historical places, and a unique mountain culture. You’ll find mom-and-pop stores and museums like the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum.

Surrounding the town, you can explore miles of trails that take you deep into the Rocky Mountains. In the winter, the town transforms into one of Colorado’s top destinations for winter sports.

Boonville, California

Boonville is one of the most beautiful towns in California and a must-see if you’re visiting Northern California’s wine country. You’ll have endless vineyards to visit and charming shops and natural areas to explore.

Downtown has a mix of historic homes, galleries, and boutique stores selling everything from homemade clothes to decorations. Along Highway 128, you can stop into renowned wineries and sample some of the best wines in the region.

One of the best activities is driving along the winding Mountain View Road. You’ll pass giant redwoods, hiking trails, viewpoints, wildlife areas, and hidden artisanal vineyards.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is one of the most beautiful small towns in the Northeast and a hub for fall colors and winter sports in New England. You’ll have world-famous ski resorts and summer hiking trails, all within a short drive or walk from town.

In town, you can grab a craft beer or shop at one of its popular boutique shops. There are also plenty of historic inns and bed and breakfasts to stay at.

One of the best things to do in Stowe is to drive and see the surrounding countryside and historic landmarks. You can pass over the highly photographed Red Covered Bridge or visit a farm to sample homemade apple cider. For small-town charm and natural beauty, it’s hard to beat this amazing destination.

Rhinebeck, New York

Rhinebeck is a beautiful town tucked away in the Catskill Mountains, just a few hours north of New York City. You’ll find romantic streets with historical homes, boutique shops, farmers markets, and incredible cafes.

The town has dozens of beautiful bed and breakfasts and historical inns. You’ll also find historic taverns, bars, and craft breweries serving some of the best artisanal products in the state.

Nearby, you can experience world-class hiking. Head to the Ferncliff Forest to climb the towering observation tower to overlook the Hudson River and surrounding mountains.