10 Picturesque Small Towns in the U.S. You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Visit)
Exploring small towns across the United States offers a chance to uncover hidden gems and experience the charm of life away from the constant excitement of the big cities. The majority of these lesser known towns offer beautiful scenery, small streets and a rich history, which is commonly overlooked by the regular tourist. For those looking to escape the crowds and unwind, these towns offer the perfect retreat.
Not all travelers may be familiar with these small towns, but they have much to offer. From charming cobblestone streets to stunning sceneries, or something entirely one-of-a-kind, these hidden gems are found off the beaten path. We’ve rounded up 10 small towns in the U.S. that should be first on your list of places to visit for your next road trip.
Beaufort, North Carolina
Beaufort is a perfectly lovely coastal town on the southern coast of North Carolina. Historic homes, some dating back to the 1700s, and views of the Beaufort Inlet from the waterfront are what make the town famous. The waterfront is strollable, you have the North Carolina Maritime Museum, or you can take a boat tour to islands nearby. What you’ll love about this town is its small town charm and quiet pace of living.
Marfa, Texas
A small town in West Texas, Marfa has become an unlikely cultural hub drawing artists, musicians and even travelers from all over. This is a town known for its minimalist art scene, as well as the Marfa lights that appear at night. Marfa feels like it’s from another world: with desert landscapes and fantastic art installations. You don’t need to be an art lover to be captivated by the beauty of the surroundings and the starry night sky.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Hidden in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas is Eureka Springs, a Victorian style town. It has a winding layout of streets, quirky architecture, historic buildings, and everything about it feels like it’s out of a fairy tale. It is known for its natural springs, said to have healing properties and its active arts community. If you are looking for beauty and history combined with a little creativity, then Eureka Springs is the place for you.
Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Cedarburg is a small town located just north of Milwaukee that feels stuck in time. Cedarburg is celebrated for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, including a charming mill and a historic brewery, making it a perfect spot for anyone who loves exploring the old-world charm. The town also hosts lively festivals throughout the year, such as an arts and crafts fair, and a wine and harvest festival. Whether browsing art galleries or savoring local wines, Cedarburg offers a welcoming and delightful experience.
Dahlonega, Georgia
A small town set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is rich in history and dates back to the gold rush of the 1830s. There are also hikes to take in the many nearby trails, or you can explore the town’s historic district and visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum. Dahlonega is a haven for wine enthusiasts, boasting several wineries throughout the area. Dahlonega is the perfect mix of history, nature and southern hospitality with picturesque mountain views and charming downtown.
Silver City, New Mexico
The former mining town, Silver City, has become an artistic community. The town sits in southwestern New Mexico and is surrounded on all sides by rugged mountains and lush forests. There are many galleries and artisan shops in Silver City, visitors will find paintings, pottery, etc. With lots of outdoors activities in the town, such as hiking, biking and bird watching. Silver City is a great destination if you’re looking for a place where creativity thrives and nature is at your doorstep.
Galena, Illinois
A town with a long history, Galena lies along the Mississippi River. It has the town’s well preserved 19th century buildings and cute Main Street to make it feel like it’s at least one step back in time. Galena was once home to Ulysses S. Grant, the former president. In his former home, you can tour the local shops, or have a peaceful stroll through the town. Galena is a must-see as the combination of rich history and small-town charm.
Ashland, Oregon
Oregon Shakespeare Festival is famous in Ashland, a small town in southern Oregon. This cultural hotspot is a lively town that theater lovers from all over the world find attractive. In addition to its lively arts scene, Ashland offers beautiful views; the nearby Cascade Mountains and Lithia Park are must-sees. Whatever brings you to Ashland, you’ll discover a beautiful combination of arts, culture, and nature.
Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City may be known for its cherry blossoms, but the town has so much more to see. The town sits on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay and has pretty waterfront views, cute boutique shops, and a food scene that’s thriving. It’s also a hub for outdoor activities: kayaking on the bay and visiting nearby vineyards. Traverse City has a relaxed vibe and is beautiful, and it’s the perfect place for someone wanting to enjoy nature and culture.
Mendocino, California
Rugged and coastal, Mendocino sits on the northern California coastline. The town is famous for its breathtaking cliffside views, historic Victorian homes, and vibrant arts scene. If you love nature, art, or both, then Mendocino is perfect for you: hiking, whale watching, and gallery hopping. Mendocino carries a peaceful atmosphere and a beautiful landscape, life here is slowed down to a near-perfect escape from the everyday grind.
Auburn, Alabama
Southern hospitality meets a rich history in Auburn, in the heart of Alabama. Auburn is known for its prestigious university, but it has a youthful energy and a small-town feel with its historic district and tree-lined streets. Auburn offers a blend of culture, history, and community. featuring fascinating museums, lively food scenes, and the chance to stroll through Toomer’s Corner.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
