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One of my favorite things about this country is the differences in each state. A cross-country road trip can take you from the mountains to the desert, coast, and swampland, with each region representing its unique charm and culture.
I’m an avid road tripper and have spent some time in these small towns. They left their mark on me in the best way possible.
I’ve found some of the coolest small towns around the country. Check out this list and let me know how many you’ve visited. What towns would you add to the list?
1. Capitola, California
You don’t have to go to Europe for a colorful coastal experience as in Libson or the Amalfi Coast. Capitola is just south of Santa Cruz and home to pastel row houses lining the Pacific Ocean boardwalk.
After a day of surfing or suntanning, visitors can visit the town’s carnival, play in the arcades, or people-watch in one of the many seaside restaurants. Capitola is the perfect spot for a vacation for anyone looking for a cute beach town.
2. Kanab, Utah
If you’re looking for great natural beauty, you’ll be hard-pressed to beat Knab, Utah. Knab is where the Southwest desert meets the mighty Rocky Mountains, and the result is something so mesmerizing you have to see it to believe it.
The town is just miles from attractions, including Zion National Park, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and Lake Powell. The area is so picturesque that it has been nicknamed “Little Hollywood” due to the many Westerns filmed there.
3. Ennis, Montana
Ennis sits just outside Yellowstone National Park and hosts thousands of visitors each year.
The town is rich in natural beauty. It’s surrounded by mountains and plains, making it hard to find a better sunset than the one you will see in Ennis. Whether visiting Yellowstone or enjoying a weekend of fly fishing in the Madison River, you’ll love the old Western downtown. The streets are lined with restaurants serving hearty portions, breweries, and a local distillery making whiskey with the famous Montana huckleberries.
4. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Ocracoke Island is not like any other beach town in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The locals call it “the cure for the common beach.”
This beach next to Silver Lake Harbor is accessible only by ferry. But once you arrive, you’ll be charmed by the eclectic shops and restaurants that line the streets.
On your next visit, tour the old lighthouse, take a ghost tour, and see the many wild horses that call this beautiful stretch of land home.
5. Deadwood, South Dakota
Visitors to Deadwood, South Dakota, will feel like they stepped out of a time capsule when they arrive. The Old West town is rich in history due to the rise in the population of gold rushers. Wild West icons Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, Seth Bullock, and Wyatt Earp spent time in the town. Hickok met his demise playing poker in a nearby tavern.
Nowadays, the streets feel untouched despite the casinos, hotels, and souvenir shops lining the main street. Still, the spirit of the Wild West lingers in the air, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the Black Hills of South Dakota.
6. Taos, New Mexico
New Mexico doesn’t get as much love or recognition as other popular tourist spots. But those who know about Taos are greeted with breathtaking views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in northern New Mexico.
The town is becoming more popular for its world-class ski resorts. When you’re not hitting the slopes, walk through downtown to see the historic adobe architecture of a village inhabited by natives for the past thousand years.
7. Sheridan, Wyoming
When you ride into this town, you might be confused about whether you’re in the Old West or Las Vegas. Either way, you’ll have some fun enjoying all the outdoor activities this town has to offer.
Sheridan describes itself as “The New West,” as neon signs light up the old town where outlaws once roamed. The strip is filled with bars and live music, which is a great opportunity for travelers to have some fun before setting off at sunset in the Bighorn Mountains.
8. Fredericksburg, Texas
Did you know that Texas has a vibrant winery scene, with Fredericksburg at the center of it? I didn’t, but after some internet research, I put this town on my short list of cities to visit.
The town is about 78 miles west of Austin and began as a small German settlement. It’s characterized by limestone buildings, upscale restaurants, boutiques, and about 100 wineries.
9. Nantucket, Massachusetts
This charming island off the coast of Cape Cod is known for its cobblestone streets, weather-beaten wharves, and Main Street, lined with boutiques, shops, restaurants, and museums.
The island is only 50 square miles, making it a prime destination for people searching for a secluded beach town with a rich history.
10. Crystal River, Florida
Here’s a fun fact: Crystal River is the only place in the United States where people can swim with manatees. If you’ve always wanted to swim with the mammal nicknamed the “sea cow,” this could be a bucket-list destination.
If you’re not interested in swimming with giant manatees, the town is also a popular spot for vacationers who want to paddleboard, kayak, or enjoy the local restaurants.
11. Tombstone, Arizona
Once a bustling mining town in southern Arizona, it’s now a tourist destination that caters to thousands of visitors looking for a taste of the Old West. Although the main street seems filled with boisterous saloons, it’s actually a popular tourist spot among families with younger kids.
It might be considered a tourist trap, but Tombstone knows what it is and delivers a fun-filled adventure for visiting families. In this throwback Western town, experience the Old West and witness a live reenactment of a shootout at the OK Corral.
12. Helen, Georgia
This little town in the Blue Ridge Mountains will make you feel like you’re exploring the hills of Bavaria in Germany. Every building has a touch of classic Alpine German architecture, making it look like a town of gingerbread houses. When visiting this fun Southern town, prepare for classic German cuisine like sausages and schnitzels.
13. Dyersville, Iowa
Movie buffs might be familiar with Dyersville. It’s where the iconic baseball movie Field of Dreams (1989) was shot. Producers built a real-life stadium in the cornfield of Iowa, which is still open and functional today.
Every year, thousands of baseball and movie fans flock to this famous field for a sense of baseball and Hollywood nostalgia. Major League Baseball now holds an annual game at the field, making it an even bigger tourist draw.
14. Montpelier, Vermont
People might know Montpelier is the capital of Vermont. However, most people are unaware of the town’s charm. The smallest state capitol is home to a bustling arts and music scene and a thriving destination for foodies.
The town comes alive during the winter months. Thrill seekers from all over come to Montpelier to test their fate at ice climbing and back-country skiing. For those not looking to stare death in the face, there’s world-class ice fishing, tubing, and other winter festivities for family-friendly fun.
15. Ojai, California
Most people outside California miss out on this quaint little town about 82 miles northwest of Los Angeles. Ojai welcomes visitors looking to enjoy the fresh air of the quiet town.
Ojai is a great weekend getaway for people who want to golf, horseback ride, shop, taste wine, and relax at the spa. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, check out Ojai for a calming change of pace.
16. Moab, Utah
Moab is one of those towns that, after a short visit, will make you stop and think about moving there. Not only does it offer the beauty of southern Utah, but it’s also an adventure lover’s dream.
The town sits just outside of Arches and Canyonlands National Park and is filled with activities for adrenaline junkies. Visitors can spend their days hiking, biking, off-roading, or riding ATVs.
I’ve visited Moab four times and seriously considered buying a Jeep and moving to this magical place each time.
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18 Underrated U.S. Destinations Worth Exploring
Image Credit: Shutterstock.[/caption]
Every state in the United States has its unique charm and attractions. However, some states are often perceived as less exciting or engaging than others. This perception, which may not always reflect reality, could be based on various factors, from a state’s geography and culture to its lack of iconic landmarks or tourist hotspots. Here are 18 states that some Americans might dread visiting due to a perceived lack of exciting activities or attractions.
