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65 Charming American Towns You Haven't Heard of But Should Visit ASAP

Hit the roads less traveled.

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When you plan a vacation, most people tend to go to more popular places, right? It's usually cities they've read about or towns and attractions that have been recommended by friends and family that make the bucket list. But that method might be short-sighted—after all, there are plenty of small towns in America that are worth traveling to, even if you didn't know they existed. These 65 small towns across the U.S. might not have made it onto your bucket list yet, but they absolutely deserve a spot.

1

Alton, Illinois

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Fun fact: Alton is the birthplace of jazz legend Miles Davis. The river town is also known for being one of the best places in America to spot a bald eagle. Every year, residents kick off eagle-watching season with the Alton-Audubon Eagle Ice Festival.

2

Cooperstown, New York

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Cooperstown is a must-visit destination for baseball fans, as it's best known for having the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. But the streets lined with cute shops and close proximity to outdoor activities, like camping, kayaking, and even skiing, is what keeps people coming back.

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3

Magnolia Springs, Alabama

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The magnolia trees in the aptly named Magnolia Springs are the standout stars of the town, creating beautiful canopies on most streets. Fun fact: It's the only place in America that has mail delivered by boat year-round!

4

Lindsborg, Kansas

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Lindsborg, also known as "Little Sweden USA," is the perfect place to learn about Swedish culture. Between the art galleries, dining options, and folk dancing festivals, there's plenty to do. As you walk around, count how many colorful Dala horses you can find! The folk art tradition is just one of the many things that makes this town special.

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5

Marfa, Texas

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This small, rural town is a surprising arts hub in the United States. High-profile figures have visited for its live music venues, art galleries, and unique restaurants. If the streets look familiar to you, it's because Giant and There Will Be Blood were both filmed here.

6

Cape May, New Jersey

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For a truly relaxing waterside vacation, it doesn't get better than Cape May. Stay at one of the quaint guest homes on the water and stroll along the endless rows of docks. While visiting "America's Original Seaside Resort," you can tour the local winery or even go whale watching.

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7

Cottage Grove, Oregon

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Known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon," the town offers a trail studded with seven covered bridges that connect the village across rolling hillside and a series of waterfalls and rivers. The delightful setting is home to plenty of great hiking and bicycling spots, as well as several cozy B&B retreats.

8

Springdale, Utah

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Right at the edge of Zion National Park sits a small village where visitors can soak up the breathtaking mountain-scape as they enjoy dining at the local brewery or shopping at one of the many crystal and geode shops.

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9

Hilo, Hawaii

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The town of Hilo is nestled along the Big Island's largest harbor and boasts beautiful waterfalls with stellar views. Just south of the tropical retreat is Volcanoes National Park, home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world.

10

Stuart, Florida

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Stuart is formally known as the Sailfish Capital of the World, thanks to its close proximity to the St. Lucie River and the Indian River Lagoon. The small town's tropical climate is perfect for snowbirds who enjoy getting away during the bitter winter months, but are looking for a less popular destination.

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11

Charlevoix, Michigan

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From a legendary castle to mushroom houses to a stunning red lighthouse, the small town of Charlevoix has plenty to offer. And if you’re a fan of all things lavender, this is the ideal destination for you—Charlevoix is home to one of the largest Lavender Hill Farms, abundant with 29 varieties.

12

Black Mountain, North Carolina

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Black Mountain is nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains with a population of a little more than 8,400. The town was voted 2016's Prettiest Small Town Vacation by TripAdvisor readers. Taking a stroll through the town square reveals stunning landscaping, the small town’s famous rocking chairs, and, of course, hiking trails, camping grounds, and waterfalls.

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13

Leavenworth, Washington

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This town has a Bavarian village feel that makes it a must-visit during Oktoberfest and during the holiday season. Take in spectacular views of the Pacific Northwest on nearby hiking trails or just take it easy with some shopping and wine tasting.

14

Skaneateles, New York

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This picturesque village is located right on the edge of Skaneateles Lake in Upstate New York. With beautiful and serene surroundings, you can spend the days of summer relaxing in a kayak or hiking the trails. Plus, there are premium shopping outlets not far from town.

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15

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

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This tiny town is located on the Shenandoah River and the ideal getaway for nature lovers. There are eight (yes, eight) national parks and heritage sites to visit in the area.

16

St. Simons Island, Georgia

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History buffs and beach lovers alike will love this small island town off the Georgia coast. There, you can golf, fish, and visit plenty of historical monuments, and you can't miss climbing to the top of the St. Simons Lighthouse to see the view of the entire island.

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17

Bisbee, Arizona

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Back in the day, Bisbee was a major silver and copper mining hub, but now it's a quaint small town home to artists and retirees. With houses on cliffs' edges and a mine cavern that you can still explore, it's pretty picturesque.

18

Perdido Key, Florida

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In this town, you can skip the touristy parts of the state and relax by the (much less crowded) beach. With fishing, boating, snorkeling, multiple golf courses, and more, there's a little something for everyone.

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19

Bardstown, Kentucky

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If you like whiskey, Bardstown is basically a can't-miss stop — you might not be familiar with it, but it is the bourbon capital of the world, after all. It's home to several distilleries, including Jim Beam and Maker's Mark.

20

Frenchtown, New Jersey

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A visit to this charming, serene town might be just what you need. It's a great spot for biking and hiking as well as browsing the local shops. If you visit in July, be sure to check out their Bastille Day festival.

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