Fairhope, Alabama
This tiny Alabama town was founded in 1894 and is known for its annual shellfish phenomenon. Each year, crabs, flounder and shrimp flood the shallow bay in what’s referred to as the ‘jubilee’. In addition to the natural phenomenon, there’s a local brewery, tons of farmers markets, Museum of History and nearby Village Point Park Reserve.
Montpelier, Vermont
Montpelier is one of America’s most charming small towns. This fun capital town is famous for its Hubbard Park and the Vermont State House. With a history dating back to Native American settlers nearly 6,000 years ago, there’s plenty to be explored in this quaint, yet interesting town.
Ponchatoula, Louisiana
The teeny town of Ponchatoula is known for its Southern hospitality, historic old town and annual strawberry festival. In Ponchatoula, they take care of guests and each other. Take a walk around the local swamps, chow down on a hearty meal or make friends with locals at one of the old bars. Either way, you’ll feel right at home in this cosy Louisiana heartland.
New Castle, Delaware New Castle spins a tale of Delaware’s history with its peaceful cobblestone streets and old colonial town. Hugging the Delaware River, it’s surrounded by beautiful scenery and just a hop away from famous New Castle Battery Park. Additionally, history buffs will love their First State National Historic Park and Court House Museum.
Ithaca, New York Head to the heart of the Finger Lakes area in Ithaca, New York. This pint sized town is the perfect place to spend a few days taking in the area and its charm. Take an artisan bread class, go ice skating in an outdoor pond and then catch some local talent at an old pub.
Hilo, Hawaii Hilo is surrounded by pristine tropical landscapes, home to a plethora of local markets and a vibrant Hawaiian culture. This Pacific pearl is mostly famous for its annual Merrie Monarch Festival dedicated to King David Kalakaua. Every year, the city is brought to life in a week long celebration of Hawaiian tradition such as hula, crafts and the native language.
Great Barrington, Massachusetts Berkshire County’s Great Barrington is known for being one of the country’s most charming small towns. An oasis for nature lovers and art aficionados, there’s something for everyone. Sip on fresh spiced cider from a local farmer, catch a show at Mahaiwe, explore the Berkshires or grab a bite and drink at any of the charming small towns gastro gems.
Truckee, California has long been a jewel of the West for adventurers. Only 30 minutes from Lake Tahoe, the surrounding area is just as interesting as the local town. In addition to an active art and music community, there’s a great dining scene making it one of the most charming small towns.
Wallace, Idaho Home to a plethora of historic buildings, museums and local shops, it’s not hard to see why Wallace is so charming. For over a hundred years, Wallace has been the world’s largest silver producer, and it’s got a lot to show for it. For example, it’s the richest mining town still in existence and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Jefferson, Texas The friendly come as you are attitude, pre civil war history, charming small town eateries and family shops are what make Jefferson, Texas so special. Frozen in time, this city has plenty to offer for history buffs such as the Confederate Ordnance Magazine, the Atlanta Rail Car and several preserved homes. Outdoorsy folks will enjoy nearby Caddo Lake, one of Texas’ natural beauties.
Leper's Fork, Tennessee This quaint country town is a mecca for antiques, history and quirky shops. The ‘kick off your boots and stay awhile’ mentality of the locals mixed with the surrounding beauty make it an easy favourite. Wet your whistle at one of the many cosy bars, chow down on a hearty meal at one of the local staples and then head to the Lawnchair Theatre.
Unalaska, Alaska This coastal gem is the hub of Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. Seemingly in the middle of nowhere, this small harbour town is surrounded by rugged beauty and home to some fascinating history. A 10,000 year old Unangan culture, along with local ties to WW2 are what make it a draw for history buffs.
Stowe, Vermont Famous as a family fun Summer destination or winter hotspot for skiers, Stowe is one of America’s best small towns. Get your fill of local fare while taking in the surrounding natural beauty with plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you want to bike, fish, or hike, there’s something for everyone.
Yellow Springs, Ohio Built on springs thought to be healing, Yellow Springs is a cosy Ohio town perfect for R&R. Additionally, local food and surrounding natural areas add to its relaxed and homey vibe. Its allure is so infectious in fact that Dave Chappelle still calls this charming small town home.
Charlottesville, Virginia Take a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, James Monroe’s Highland or pop in the famous Paramount Theatre. But whatever you do, don’t leave without grabbing a bite at Miche Tavern, the circa 1784 eatery that uses only 18th century recipes.
‘Small Town America’ is a world in and of itself. Sleepy coastal villages, forgotten dessert towns and colonial New England communities are just a few things that come to mind when we hear the word ‘charming small towns’. Thanks to its extremely diverse population, landscape and culture, the United States is home to an abundance of quirky small towns.
