Travel to the small towns of America is booming, reflecting a growing desire for slower and more authentic travel experiences. These charming destinations offer friendly faces, walkable main streets, historic character, and a way to escape the tourist crowds of the big cities.
At Remitly, we love to support authentic ways of seeing the world. In this guide, we’ll explore 25 of the top small towns in America to visit in 2026. You’ll discover hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and insider tips. These towns capture the heart and soul of small-town America, making them incredible destinations to explore this year.
New England charm: historic towns worth the journey
Rich in history and charm, New England captures the magic of America’s small towns like nowhere else. Colonial fishing villages, fiery autumn leaves, and timeless traditions make the region feel like a step back in time.
Stowe, Vermont
This picture-perfect mountain town is famous for its covered bridges, ski slopes, and fall colors. Visit in autumn to see the surrounding Green Mountains on fire with red and gold leaves, or enjoy world-class skiing in the winter. And don’t miss the local maple syrup farms for tasty souvenirs of your trip.
Mystic, Connecticut
This was once a bustling seaport, so it combines maritime history with unrivaled coastal charm. You can explore the Mystic Seaport Museum, visit the charming Olde Mistick Village shops, and enjoy fresh lobster rolls by the harbor. In summer, boating and waterfront festivals bring this beautiful area to life.
Kennebunkport, Maine
With ocean views and elegant colonial homes, Kennebunkport is a classic seaside escape. The art galleries of Dock Square and the scenic drive of Ocean Avenue let you experience that classic New England charm between meals of fresh clam chowder and blueberry pie. Late spring through to early fall’s probably the best time to get sunny weather and beautiful views here.
Newport, Rhode Island
A popular getaway for the wealthy of a century ago, Newport dazzles with opulent Gilded Age mansions and cliffside walks. The most famous of these, the Cliff Walk, gives you sweeping ocean views, and the historic downtown makes this undeniably one of America’s best small towns.
Stockbridge, Massachusetts
Tucked into the Berkshires, Stockbridge is famous as the home of the museum of painter Norman Rockwell. Visit in autumn for the beautiful foliage or in December for the Christmas celebrations, and you’ll see why this artist took such inspiration from this area.
Southern hospitality: small towns with big hearts
In some ways, the South is like its own country. From cobblestone streets to comfort food and community festivals, it’s home to some of the top small towns in 2026. Capture the heart of Southern living in one of these incredible destinations.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is absolutely full of Southern charm, with its moss-draped oaks, Antebellum houses, and riverside views. Explore the historic district, take a boat tour through the salt marshes, or tuck into local favorites like shrimp and grits and sweet tea on a shaded porch.
Helen, Georgia
This Bavarian-style village in the Blue Ridge Mountains feels like a taste of Europe with an undeniable Southern twist. Visit for the Oktoberfest celebration, when the cobbled streets fill with music, beer, and traditional German food. In the summer, you can take a tube ride down the Chattahoochee River or hike the waterfalls in the area, making this a great small-town destination for outdoor activities.
Oxford, Mississippi
As the home of the University of Mississippi, Oxford combines cultural heritage with Southern charm. Take a walk around picturesque Courthouse Square, visit the many independent bookstores, and feast on fried catfish and buttery biscuits. If you can visit during the Double Decker Arts Festival, you’ll be able to celebrate local arts, food, and music even more.
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Don’t be fooled by the spelling—this town is actually pronounced na-kuh-tuhsh. This is the oldest town in Louisiana, and it’s alive with Creole culture and charm. Sample the town’s signature meat pies and enjoy the famous Festival of Lights, and you’ll see what Southern hospitality’s all about.
Franklin, Tennessee
Just to the south of Nashville, Franklin’s a great place to explore the history of the Civil War. It’s also a fun place for festivals, with the Main Street Festival and Pumpkin Fest bringing visitors to the town year after year. A variety of boutique shops, along with local barbecue food, help to make it a must-see among the top small towns in 2026.
Midwest treasures: unexpected gems in America’s heartland
The Midwest is known for its almost endless prairies and rural communities, but it’s also home to some of America’s best small towns. These are places filled with tradition, creativity, and charm, which combine authentic hospitality with peace and quiet.
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County juts out into Lake Michigan, giving it that coastal feel that can be hard to find in America’s heartland. Known for cherry orchards as much as it is for lighthouses, this is a fantastic summer destination for kayaking and sailing, and in the fall, the beautiful colors and harvest festivals make it a joy to explore.
Hermann, Missouri
This is a wine lover’s paradise. Celebrated for its rich German heritage, the town comes alive during the traditional Oktoberfest celebrations, but unlike other festivals, wine takes center stage here. The vineyards and wineries are great places to explore at any time of year, and even if you’re not a fan of wine, you’ll love the relaxing vibes of this riverside town.
Galena, Illinois
Although it can sometimes seem as if it’s frozen in time, Galena has plenty to offer modern visitors. This 19th-century mining boomtown has preserved its historic brick storefronts and boutique shops, and it’s a wonderful place to visit at Christmas for nostalgic charm. The former home of Ulysses S. Grant is one of the top attractions here.
Lanesboro, Minnesota
If you like to find somewhere cute to stay, you may be interested to know that Lanesboro is known as the bed and breakfast capital of Minnesota. Situated along the Root River, it’s a wonderful place for outdoor adventures like biking and canoeing, but also theater performances thanks to the local Commonweal Theater Company.
Yellow Springs, Ohio
This free-spirited and bohemian place is known for its colorful murals, quirky shops, and proximity to nature. Spend a morning hiking waterfalls and an afternoon browsing artist studios, and you’ll see what makes this one of the best small towns in America.
Western adventures: small towns with mountain views
There’s nothing like breathtaking mountain views to make you feel like you’ve really gotten away from it all. If you’re looking to recapture the adventurous spirit of the American West, these are the best small towns to explore.
Jackson, Wyoming
Located in the shadow of the Tetons, Jackson is well known as a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Close to the world-class skiing of Jackson Hole, it’s also a great base for hiking and white water rafting in the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Although it’s not exactly off the beaten path, it’s one of America’s best small towns to explore.
Telluride, Colorado
This is another small town with a big reputation that blends natural beauty with culture and creativity. The Telluride Bluegrass Festival and Film Festivals bring people from around the country to celebrate culture here. The historic downtown area, with its Victorian architecture, makes it one of America’s best small mountain towns to visit in 2026.
Whitefish, Montana
Known as the gateway to Glacier National Park, Whitefish offers almost endless outdoor adventure. Skiing in winter, kayaking and hiking in summer, combined with local breweries and great restaurants available year-round on Central Avenue, make this is a fantastic place to explore.
Park City, Utah
Internationally famous as the home of the Sundance Film Festival, Park City offers plenty of other activities, too. Incredible skiing in the winter, excellent mountain biking in the summer, and scenic drives all year round make this an appealing destination whenever you want to go. Park City’s unique blend of outdoor adventure and international luxury provides a little bit of everything for visitors.
Pacific Coast discoveries: coastal towns beyond the crowds
Nothing beats a beach getaway, but it can be hard to find hidden gems close to the sea. Still, the Pacific Coast has some amazing small towns that are still a little bit off the beaten path and let you soak up that Pacific lifestyle.
Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-style village has stunning alpine scenery that’ll make you feel as if you’ve been transported to Europe. That’s especially true at Christmas, when the Christmas markets are in full swing. But summer here is also undeniably beautiful, with incredible mountain views, endless hiking trails, and plenty of outdoor fun.
Mendocino, California
The dramatic cliff-top location of Mendocino is just one of its selling points. Combine that with well-preserved Victorian architecture, Bohemian charm, and California weather, and you have everything you need for one of California’s best small coastal towns. Enjoy incredible seafood, beautiful walking trails, and a relaxing vibe as you explore.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
This isn’t exactly off the beaten path, but it’s popular for a reason. Cannon Beach is famous for its rugged rock formations, including iconic Haystack Rock, but the town’s also worth exploring. An excellent location for whale watching, Cannon Beach is surrounded by state parks where you can enjoy ocean scenery and plenty of fresh air.
Port Townsend, Washington
A beautifully preserved 19th-century seaport, Port Townsend is full of charm. Stroll the historic waterfront, visit maritime museums, and enjoy live music when the sun goes down. Port Townsend is full of charming inns and beautiful ocean views that make it a fantastic place to discover in any season.
Cambria, California
Located between Big Sur and San Luis Obispo, Cambria somehow manages to escape the tourist crowds despite its indisputable beauty. The home of Hearst Castle, this is a fantastic place to enjoy California wine paired with excellent seafood. Explore the hikes along the stunning coastline to get away from the crowds.
Astoria, Oregon
The site of the Columbia River Maritime Museum, Astoria is a place steeped in history that also brings creative flair. The walkable waterfront, with its local restaurants and artist studios, makes this a reliable hit for anyone who wants to soak up oceanfront tranquility in a small but lively town.
Start planning your small town getaway
These days, travelers are seeking more authentic and immersive experiences when they travel, ideally without the crowds. No wonder small towns are becoming ever more popular destinations for slow travel. Step off the beaten path, enjoy the slow pace of local life, and experience parts of the country many people never see.
Already considering one of these small towns for your next getaway? Whether you’re going for a weekend, a holiday break, or a summer trip, you’re bound to find a beautiful small town that’ll welcome you and show you what life in these places is all about. As you plan, think about what you enjoy most—food, nature, history, arts—and choose a destination that matches your interests and budget.
Once you’ve chosen your destination, book accommodation and activities ahead to save money, as accommodation in small towns can fill up fast. Try to support locally-owned businesses rather than choosing a big hotel chain. And if you really want to soak up the small-town charm and slower way of life, don’t overschedule yourself—allow time to just wander around, sit in a cafe, and relax.
FAQs
What makes a town one of the best small towns in America 2026?
The best small towns in America offer everything from coastal beauty to rural relaxation. What makes a town one of the best is a mixture of scenic beauty, local culture, and unique experiences.
How do I choose which small town to visit first?
The best place to start is with what interests you. Do you want to spend time on the beach? If so, New England or the Pacific Coast may be a good place to start. Are you more interested in history? The South has that in spades. Think about how you want to spend your time, and let that guide you to the right small town for you.
What’s the best time of year to visit small American towns?
Spring and fall often have the best weather, with less heat than summer and fewer crowds. It’s also a good idea to research local events and festivals before deciding when to visit.
Are small towns budget-friendly destinations?
Small towns often provide more affordable lodging, dining, and attractions compared to the big city. You’ll often find that the cost of living is lower in the South or the Midwest than on either of the coasts, too.
How can I support local businesses when visiting small towns?
Try to avoid big chains and instead eat at family-run restaurants, stay in locally owned inns, and shop the local stores. Not only will you be helping to support these businesses, but you’ll come away with a much more authentic and unique experience.