15 of the Prettiest Small Towns in the United States as Rated by Americans

Are you exhausted from the fast-paced lifestyle of a big city? Well, it’s time to ditch the traffic jams and skyscrapers and head to the land of small-town charm! Recently, some internet dwellers have shared their picks for the prettiest small towns in America, and let me tell you, these places are so gorgeous they’ll make your eyes water (in a good way, of course). So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a trip filled with culture, history, and more charm than you can shake a stick at.

1. Pella, Iowa

Pink tulips around a pond with a Dutch windmill and other beds of tulips and spring trees in the Sunken Gardens Park in Pella, Iowa in the spring time. — Editorial credit: Bella Bender / Shutterstock.com

Pella is renowned for its annual Tulip Time Festival, which celebrates the town’s Dutch heritage with vibrant displays of tulips throughout the town. The town’s Dutch influence is evident in its well-preserved historic architecture. Visitors are captivated by the unique buildings, including the Vermeer Windmill and the Scholte House Museum.

2. Concord, Massachusetts

Concord historic town center aerial view in summer on Main Street in town of Concord, Massachusetts MA, USA. — Photo credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

Several users suggested Concord, Massachusetts as the prettiest small town in the U.S. It is known for its picturesque beauty and charm, as well as holding great historical importance. Concord played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War.

3. Telluride, Colorado

Telluride, USA - August 14, 2019: Small town village in Colorado with sign for city and flowers by historic architecture on main street mountain view — Photo credit: Kristi Blokhin / Shutterstock.com

Telluride was also a popular answer among Americans. Telluride, Colorado is indeed a stunning town known for its natural beauty and charming atmosphere. The town is nestled in a picturesque box canyon surrounded by towering peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride boasts breathtaking views in every direction.

4. Galena, IL

Galena Illinois — Photo credit: Nejdet Duzen // Shutterstock.com

This delightful small town in the northwest region of Illinois is steeped in a fascinating past. In the 1800s, it flourished as a prosperous lead mining hub, but now it’s famed for its picturesque setting, captivating architecture, and one-of-a-kind stores. Tourists can explore the town’s highlights via a trolley ride, peruse the numerous art galleries and vintage shops, or partake in outdoor pursuits like hiking and skiing.

5. Port Townsend, Washington

Mount Baker and lighthouse in Port Townsend, Washington — Photo credit: Dene’ Miles // Shutterstock.com

This picturesque town is situated on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, overlooking Puget Sound. It’s known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, artsy vibe, and stunning waterfront views. Visitors can explore the many galleries and boutiques in the downtown area, take a boat tour of the surrounding islands, or hike in nearby Fort Worden State Park.

6. Sedona, AZ

Birds eye view to the city of Sedona, Arizona and the Red Rocks at sunset — Photo credit: Alexey Stiop // Shutterstock.com

Sedona, located amidst northern Arizona’s striking red rock formations, is renowned for its mesmerizing natural charm and mystical aura, making it a favored tourist spot. Tourists can explore numerous trails in the adjacent national forests, embark on a jeep excursion across the rugged landscape, or unwind in any of the numerous wellness centers or spas dotting the region. Moreover, the town boasts a lively arts milieu and a contemporary New Age culture.

7. Madison, IN

The view of Jefferson County Courthouse in Madison Indiana, United States — Photo credit: Wirestock Creators // Shutterstock.com

Madison, Indiana, is a town on the Ohio River in southern Indiana. It has over 130 historic buildings, including Victorian homes and downtown storefronts. Visitors can take a walking tour, shop in antique shops and boutiques, or participate in outdoor activities. Madison also has a lively music scene and hosts festivals throughout the year, making it a must-visit for music lovers.

8. Jim Thorpe, PA

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania — Photo credit: Desha Utsick // Shutterstock.com

Nestled in the Pocono Mountains, Jim Thorpe is a picturesque town known for its charming 19th-century architecture, scenic hiking trails, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town was named after the famous Native American athlete Jim Thorpe and is home to several historic sites, including the Old Jail Museum and the Asa Packer Mansion. Visitors can also take a ride on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, go whitewater rafting on the Lehigh River, or browse the unique shops and boutiques in the downtown area.

9. New Hope, PA

Steeple Building In Historic New Hope PA — Photo credit: David Cianetti // Shutterstock.com

Nestled on the tranquil banks of the Delaware River, New Hope is a quaint town with a rich artistic heritage. The town is home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can stroll along the Delaware Canal towpath, enjoy a scenic boat ride on the river, or sample the cuisine at one of the town’s many restaurants and cafes. In addition to its undeniable charm, New Hope is renowned for its vibrant and bustling nightlife.

10. Bar Harbor, ME

BAR HARBOR, ME - JULY 24: Dockside lobster restaurant in historic Bar Harbor ME on night of July 24, 2011. Bar Harbor is a famous location in Down East Maine with a long history of lobstering. — Editorial credit: littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock.com

Bar Harbor in Maine is a popular tourist spot known for its natural beauty and New England ambiance. Acadia National Park is a prime attraction, covering over 47,000 acres of forests, mountains, and coastlines. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, and whale watching. Bar Harbor also has an arts and culture scene featuring galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing local talent.

11. West Yellowstone, MT

West Yellowstone, MT, USA - August 8, 2022: Welcome to Montana road sign. — Editorial credit: Iv-olga / Shutterstock.com

As the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The town is surrounded by pristine wilderness and offers easy access to various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the town’s numerous museums and historic sites, such as the Yellowstone Historic Center Museum and the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. In the winter, West Yellowstone is a popular destination for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

12. Mendocino, CA

Mendocino, CA, March 8, 2020. View of town from the Mencocino Headlands State Park, USA, on a blue sky day with some clouds. — Editorial credit: AlessandraRC / Shutterstock.com

Located on the rugged northern coast of California, Mendocino is a picturesque town known for its stunning natural beauty and artistic culture. The town is home to numerous galleries, shops, restaurants, and a vibrant theater scene. Visitors can take a stroll along the rugged coastline, go whale watching, or explore the nearby redwood forests. Mendocino is also home to numerous historic sites, including the Point Cabrillo Light Station and the Mendocino Headlands State Park.

13. Manitou Springs, CO

Manitou Springs, CO /USA - February 20, 2019: The Pikes Peak Cog Railroad station sits dormant and empty. It is set to reopen in 2021. Replacement track and train cars are set to cost $100 million. — Photo credit: Gary Reinwald // Shutterstock.com

Manitou Springs is located just outside of Colorado Springs. This stunning resort town is known for Pikes Peak, its enchanting mineral springs, and its mountainous landscape. It is also home to many art galleries and cute boutiques.

14. Fredericksburg, TX

Fredericksburg, TX - USA - December `10 2019: Exterior of businesses on main street, including Headquarters Hats and Fredericksburg Jewelers — Editorial credit: Tony Prato / Shutterstock.com

Present in the Texas Hill Country, the enchanting town of Fredericksburg boasts a unique German influence and is renowned for its flourishing wineries, lush peach orchards, and sprawling wildflower meadows. Visitors can explore the historic downtown district, which features unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Other popular attractions in the area include Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a massive granite dome that offers hiking and rock climbing opportunities, and the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, which includes the former president’s ranch and home.

15. Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth historic downtown aerial view at Market Square with historic buildings and North Church on Congress Street in city of Portsmouth, New Hampshire NH, USA. — Photo credit: Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock.com

Portsmouth is a historic town located on the coast of New Hampshire. Its Portsmouth Historic District has over 800 preserved and restored buildings. The Strawbery Banke Museum showcases life in the town from the 17th century to the present. Other attractions include the USS Albacore Museum and Park, a retired naval submarine, and the Isles of Shoals, a group of islands off the coast.

Source: Reddit

Americans’ Top 14 Picks for the Best Small Towns in the United States

WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA - NOVEMBER 19 2014: The Governors Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. It was reconstructed on the original site after a fire destroyed it in the 1930's. — Photo credit: StacieStauffSmith Photos / Shutterstock.com

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Beautiful Connecticut countryside during foliage season, South Kent, Connecticut, USA — Editorial credit: Richard Cavalleri / Shutterstock.com

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Cairo, Illinois - United States - March 19th, 2023: Old abandoned buildings and storefronts in Cairo, Illinois USA. — Photo credit: Eddie J. Rodriquez / Shutterstock.com

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