The Most Beautiful Small Towns In Every State
Why yes, we would love to reside in a place where we can pan for sapphires.
There's always something to see in a big city, but sometimes, you want a slower pace. Thankfully, the United States boasts some incredible small towns. Whether you want to brush up on history or go where everyone will know your name, these charming towns offer residents plenty to love (and visitors plenty to enjoy).
Alabama: Magnolia Springs
Magnolia Springs is the definition of a small town named after mature magnolia trees that create a beautiful canopy along the Magnolia River. The Southern town has a rich history dating back to the 1800s, when it was a settlement for the Spanish.
Alabama: Mooresville
It doesn't get any smaller than Mooresville, which has a population of about 50. As you can expect, everyone knows everyone here. You can grab a coffee and chat with the town's unofficial record keeper (who runs the town's cafe, JaVa.Mooresville) or visit Lyla's Little House, where owner Lyla Peebles offers up nostalgic candies and curiosities.
Alaska: Sitka
Sitka residents enjoy some of the most majestic scenery in our country. And guess who else does? Their pups, who are welcome in the Sitka National Historical Park.
Alaska: Unalaska
The secluded small town of Unalaska is only accessible by plane or boat, but it offers activities for nature lovers and history buffs. Choose to explore the beautiful hiking trails and whale watch or learn World World II history at the Museum of the Aleutians.
Arizona: Bisbee
You can't help but expand your horizons in Bisbee, a town that happily embraces the arts and a generally free-spirited vibe. Local artists display their works at the many galleries in town and can be found teaching open workshops at Bisbee Craft School.
Greer, Arizona
The history of Greer dates back to 1879 when it was founded by Mormon settlers from Utah. Thanks to the nearby lakes, the small town has great weather ideal for nature lovers looking for a peaceful escape in the White Mountains.
Arkansas: Eureka Springs
To live in Eureka Springs is to be surrounded by natural beauty 24-7. Even the town's most famous place of worship, the Thorncrown Chapel, ensures that you can still take in the gorgeous Ozark mountains scenery via 6,000-square-feet of windows.
California: Carmel
A walk down any street in Carmel-by-the-Sea gives the feeling you're in a movie, thanks to storybook architecture and one of the most scenic stretches of beach in the state. It also doesn't hurt that Clint Eastwood is the honorable mayor of the town.
California: Solvang
Though it's smack dab in the middle of California's Santa Ynez wine country, Solvang feels more like like you've been transported to Europe. Located a short 45-minute trip from Santa Barbara, this charming Danish town of 5,909 is so worth a day trip, pit stop while road tripping through the state, and full-on vacation. In fact, you'll probably want to move there full time.
Colorado: Ouray
Life's a little more relaxed in Ouray, which is perhaps due to the non-sulphur hot springs that are popular with locals and visitors alike. The beauty of the surrounding mountains might also inspire a new perspective on life, especially when viewed on a drive on the San Juan Skyway, one of the most scenic in the country.
Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs is just a quick trip away from Colorado Springs and is everything you'd want in a quaint mountain town. When you're not soaking in the charm down, you should check out the cliff dwelling ruins in the Mesa Verde National Park.
Connecticut: Mystic
Even its name is enchanting! Mystic, Connecticut, is one of those adorable New England towns you think only exists in picture books. As you stroll down the main road, you'll encounter idyllic summer scenes like ice cream shops, sailboats on the harbor, and a certain pizza shop made famous by one Julia Roberts. There are great dining options, beautiful waterfront views, and even a famous aquarium.
Connecticut: Noank
This classic New England village is the less-crowded alternative to Mystic. Tree-lined streets and marina views give a quaint feel, especially as you do your weekend shopping in the many small shops. Don't feel like cooking? Head to the famous Abbott's Lobster for a great meal.
Delaware: New Castle
Though it's only 10 minutes to a city (Wilmington), New Castle seems like a world away. Originally settled in 1651, the town is filled with extraordinarily well-preserved architecture. Even the town's coffee shop, Traders Cove Coffee Shop, is in a building that dates back to 1682!
Florida: Surfside
If you love the architecture of Miami but prefer a less-crowded atmosphere, head up to Surfside, known as the city's "uptown beach town." Residents enjoy such perks as yoga on the beach thanks to the Surfside community recreation center, and fun events like First Fridays (a monthly communal beach picnic).
Georgia: Senoia
Senoia is famous for being a filming location for The Walking Dead, with plenty of tours catering to fans. (There's also Nic & Norman's, a restaurant owned by The Walking Dead star Norman Reedus and director/producer Greg Nicotero.) But before that huge hit, residents have been attracted to this adorable town for its historic architecture and quaint shops. The town planned for "smart growth" without sacrificing character with the help of Historical Concepts.
Hawaii: Hanalei
Hanalei is another town on our list that has a famous pop culture connection: Its bridge was featured in South Pacific. The buildings and scenery are as gorgeous as you'd expect in Hawaii, too. It's also a town where you can fulfill your fantasy of opening a gallery, surf shop, or restaurant, with a steady stream of visitors looking to take in the picture-perfect landscape.
Idaho: McCall
You can't help but be an outdoorsy type in McCall, with activities ranging from cross-country skiing to fishing filling the calendar depending on the time of year. The town also offers plenty in the way of indoor fitness activities too.
Illinois: Galena
Another scenic town rich in history, the town of Galena boasts well-preserved buildings. On weekends, the town comes even more to life with weekend day trippers seeking excellent antiques shopping, but what you may not know is that the town is surrounded by a few notable vineyards.
Indiana: Nashville
Nope, not the one in Tennessee. This artist's colony is one of those places you visit on day trip and then make it your goal to live there. While the town is filled with galleries and fine restaurants, you don't have to spend a dime to enjoy a day here — just visit any park in the 170,000 acres of forested land nearby for a great afternoon.
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