The 30 most beautiful towns in America

The recipe for a beautiful American town isn’t an exact science—but there are definitely some common ingredients: Think stunning natural scenery, enchanting historic districts, a dash of exquisite architecture, and a whole lot of charm. We’ve scoured the nation to find the 30 most beautiful towns: a selection of hidden gems and scenic spots, each located in a different state. Whatever your ideal vacation, there’s something here for you, from quaint, boutique-lined streets to forested havens for hikers. Ready to plan your prettiest trip yet? Scroll on...

01

Florence, Oregon

A unique combination of dunes, trails, sea caves, and quaint, old-town charm makes Florence one of the prettiest towns in America. Explore the superlative sand formations of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area on foot, dune buggy, horseback, or sandboard. Two other must-see attractions are the Hobbit Trail (a canopied hike through a forest reminiscent of Middle-earth) and Sea Lion Caves, the largest sea cave in the USA, home to a population of Steller sea lions.

02

Holland, Michigan

Settled by immigrants from the Netherlands in the 1840s, Holland is a unique and captivating blend of Dutch charm—flowers, windmills, architecture—and Michigan lakeside beauty. The Tulip Time festival each May is Holland’s crowning glory, when over five million tulips blossom and the city comes to life with parades and events. Scenically positioned on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, the town is also blessed with exquisite beaches and show-stopping sunsets.

03

Beaufort, South Carolina

The state’s second oldest city, Beaufort’s appeal comes from its combination of historic pre-Civil War era architecture and enchanting natural beauty. Thanks to its island setting, water-based pursuits abound, while Beaufort’s moss-draped oak trees will stop you in your tracks, assuring its status as one of the most picturesque towns in the USA. The award-winning Rhett House Inn embodies the town’s splendor and has played host to many celebrity guests over the years.

04

Galena, Illinois

Galena is a bit like a late-19th-century time capsule in city form. Conversation-minded local planning rules mean Galena’s Greek Revival and late-Victorian architecture is preserved to great aesthetic effect: Most of the city is protected as a historic district. Coupled with the city’s glorious aspect, tucked away among rolling hills on the banks of a river, it’s blessed with good looks on all fronts. This is a popular weekend destination for Chicagoans, and no wonder, as those attractive buildings house a plethora of antique stores, cafés, and boutiques.

05

Natchitoches, Louisiana

The quaint southern town of Natchitoches (pronounced “Nack-a-tish”) is one of the state’s oldest European settlements, while its modern claim to fame is it being the filming location for the 1989 movie Steel Magnolias. The local historic district is especially charming; here you’ll find the many inns that have earned Natchitoches the nickname, “the bed and breakfast capital of Louisiana.”

06

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

At the scenic junction of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers sits Harpers Ferry, part small town of 300 residents, part living museum, thanks to its designation as a National Historic Park. Beautifully restored 19th-century buildings line the steep streets, many with exhibits outlining the town’s Civil War history. Harpers Ferry is also a renowned hiking spot thanks to its splendid riverside and mountainous landscape and is a popular stop on the famous Appalachian Trail.

07

Port Townsend, Washington

One of only three Victorian seaports in the USA, Port Townsend combines a bygone maritime feel with handsome old-fashioned buildings and a bustling art and food scene. Neighboring Fort Worden Historical State Park is a further boost to the town’s appeal, with acres of pristine beaches and stunning vistas.

08

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

A steep alpine village with winding streets that follow the natural curvature of the rugged landscape, Eureka Springs is known as the “Little Switzerland of America.” This darling town is dotted with attractive Victorian buildings, cottages, and manors—all without a single traffic light in sight. The nearby natural springs are a popular attraction, enjoyed for their reputed healing powers.

09

St. Simons Island, Georgia

One of 15 barrier islands off the coast of Georgia, St. Simons Island is bursting with unspoiled natural beauty—wide stretches of sand, southern live oaks draped with Spanish moss, and emerald-green marshland. The island is accessible by car, and the quaint shops and restaurants in the downtown Pier Village add to the broad appeal of this enchanting spot. Truly, one of the most charming towns in America.

10

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Thanks to the 150 hot springs, three State Parks, and two ski resorts near this mountain town, Steamboat Springs over indexes on rustic beauty. The town is famous for its trademarked “Champagne snow,” which is lower in moisture and therefore powdery and light, making it ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

11

Cape May, New Jersey

One of the oldest coastal resorts in the USA, vacationers first began visiting Cape May in the 18th century. Positioned at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, where the Atlantic Ocean merges with the Delaware Bay, Cape May maintains an old-world charm thanks to an abundance of restored Victorian buildings and a lighthouse. The area’s beaches are gorgeous, too.

12

Edenton, North Carolina

Often described as “The South’s prettiest small town,” Edenton punches above its weight thanks to its wonderfully preserved historic buildings and picturesque position on the Albemarle Sound. The town’s beauty can be enjoyed with a walk along the waterfront (sunsets are especially stunning), a trolley tour of the historic district, or a boat trip.

13

Solomons Island, Maryland

A ninety minutes’ drive from Washington D.C., Solomons Island is a maritime-focused town located where the Patuxent River meets Chesapeake Bay. The area’s low-key beauty is born from its waterfront position: Expect to see boat building, seafood restaurants, a lighthouse, and a boardwalk.

14

Seward, Alaska

Known as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward is a scenic coastal town and popular port of call for cruise boats visiting Alaska. Strings of snowy mountains rise around the town, bestowing a majestic feel. Boat tours to the National Park run from the harbor, while nearby Exit Glacier is accessible by car in the summer months.

15

Hawi, Hawaii

The Big Island’s northernmost town, located at the end of the scenic Kohala Mountain Road among lush rainforests, Hawi is a tropical paradise with a vibrant artistic feel. Art galleries, jewelry stores, boutiques, and organic food markets line the town’s streets.

16

Hermann, Missouri

Early German settlers reportedly chose to colonize Hermann because of its similarities to the Rhine Valley. Today, historic German-style buildings still stand in the town, which celebrates its heritage with festivals throughout the year, including a month-long celebration of Oktoberfest.

17

Mount Desert, Maine

Southwest of its better-known neighbor, Bar Harbor, the picturesque Mount Desert town was carved out of glaciers thousands of years ago. Mount Desert is on the doorstep of Acadia, one of the most visited National Parks in the country. Celebrated for its captivating natural beauty and outstanding wildlife, the area has seals, bobcats, deer, and more than 300 bird species.

18

Marblehead, Ohio

The peaceful Marblehead village juts out into Lake Erie and is home to the oldest operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. In summertime, the pretty shoreline buzzes with boats, while winter sees a layer of snow settle on the frozen lake.

19

Skaneateles, New York

Set on a clear and blue lake (reportedly one of the cleanest in the country), the charm of Skaneateles is a match for the splendor of its physical location. The historic district is made for wandering thanks to shops and galleries housed in well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings. A popular summer vacation destination, the area is also renowned for its marvelous fall foliage.

20

Silver City, New Mexico

Brightly colored murals decorate many buildings in the vibrant Silver City in southwestern New Mexico, giving a clear hint of the city’s appealing artistic bent. As the gateway to the Gila National Forest, Silver City is surrounded by mountain ranges to the north and desert to the south. The creative spirit of the town also inspires the food scene, which is well renowned.

21

Pella, Iowa

The Dutch-founded Pella brings colorful flair to rural Iowa. Vermeer Windmill, the nation’s largest working grain mill, stands to attention in central Pella and infuses the city with a European feel. A pretty oasis of flowering trees, greenery, and tulips can be found in its very own Central Park.

22

Lewes, Delaware

Located at Cape Henlopen, where the Delaware Bay connects with the Atlantic Ocean, Lewes is a beach town with beautiful stretches of sand, peaceful bird sanctuaries, and marshy nature trails. Its downtown district is home to postcard-worthy historic buildings that house museums, boutiques, and cafés.

23

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Hugging the southern shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield’s storybook Victorian mansions and historic district are surrounded by outstanding natural beauty. In the winter, dramatic icicles form on the Bayfield Ice Caves, while during the warmer months the region’s vivid orchards blossom with apples, berries, and pears.

24

Yountville, California

In the heart of the Napa Valley, Yountville is a wonderful advertisement for Californian wine country, boasting pretty, tree-lined streets, manicured gardens, harmonious architecture, and world-class food and wine. The town is a central main strip with restaurants, shops, hotels, and tasting rooms all within strolling distance. But don’t let the low-key Cali vibes fool you: Yountville is a big deal on the world food stage, with several Michelin-starred restaurants, including the three-starred French Laundry.

25

Mystic, Connecticut

The picture-perfect Mystic has done a remarkable job of preserving its seafaring past, with its docked fleet of historic vessels, Seaport Museum, and all manner of water-based activities. It’s also another pretty town with a starry connection—the 1988 film Mystic Pizza was filmed here.

26

Block Island, Rhode Island

Towering sea bluffs, 12 miles of stunning white-sand beaches, and more than 365 ponds and natural springs characterize the 11-square-mile Block Island, reachable by ferry from Rhode Island. Conservation laws mean the isle remains largely rural and is without traffic lights or big-chain eateries.

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27

Damascus, Virginia

If Virginia is for lovers, Damascus is for nature lovers. Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwestern Virginia, this small town is a portal to the great outdoors. It’s known as “Trail Town” thanks to its position at the intersection of several trails, including the renowned Appalachian Trail and the popular-with-bikers Virginia Creeper Trail.

28

Wallace, Idaho

Seated in the Silver Valley and nicknamed the “Silver capital of the world,” the entirety of the mining city of Wallace is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. From the main street, look up and take in the pine-tree-covered mountain peaks that hint at the area’s many outdoor adventure options.

29

Montpelier, Vermont

If it’s possible to describe a state capital as boutique, Montpelier would be worthy of the label. The smallest U.S. capital, the city manages to exude small-town charm thanks to its abundant natural beauty, independent stores, and arts scene. Montpelier’s parks, filled with sugar maples and hemlocks, are stunning year-round, but a visit during the fall is nothing short of spectacular.

30

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

With elegant Victorian architecture engulfed by the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is a jumping off point for outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting and hiking, and also a popular base from which to take in the area’s exquisite fall foliage.