Discovering the Most Beautiful Small Towns in America
Travel + Leisure has unveiled a list of the 20 most beautiful small towns in the United States, highlighting communities with populations under 20,000 that combine natural beauty, charm, and a relaxed lifestyle. From the rugged landscapes of Alaska to the serene mountain towns of the Pacific Northwest, these destinations offer unique experiences for travelers seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery.
Girdwood, Alaska – A Natural Playground
Girdwood, Alaska, claims the top spot on the list. This former gold-mining supply camp has transformed into an outdoor recreation hub located about 30 miles from Anchorage. With a population of around 2,500, the town is home to Alyeska, Alaska’s largest ski area, and attracts visitors year-round for skiing, hiking, and glacier views. Its stunning natural surroundings make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Sedona, Arizona – A Spiritual Escape
Sedona, Arizona, comes in second place. Known for its striking red rock formations and energy vortexes, this desert city of around 9,700 residents draws millions of visitors each year. While scientists remain skeptical about the mystical properties of the landscape, many are drawn to Sedona for hiking, stargazing, and wellness retreats. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual exploration.
Avalon, California – A Mediterranean Haven
Avalon, California, takes third place. Located on Santa Catalina Island, about 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, this pastel-hued town is known for its Mediterranean-style buildings, palm-lined harbor, and golf carts that outnumber cars due to strict vehicle limits. The economy is driven almost entirely by tourism, with arts, entertainment, accommodation, and food services making up around 38 percent of local employment.
Palisade, Colorado – A Peach-Farming Paradise
In fourth place is Palisade, Colorado, a peach-farming, wine-sipping gem of about 2,500 people nestled between the Rockies and the Colorado River. Known as the “Peach Capital of Colorado,” it boasts sunny orchards, over 30 wineries, and a laid-back vibe perfect for sipping rosé with mountain views. Visitors come for its annual Peach Festival, riverside adventures, and crisp Western Slope air that makes everything taste, and feel, sweeter.
Little St. Simons Island, Georgia – A Remote Retreat
Rounding out the top five is Little St. Simons Island, Georgia, a 10,000-acre, privately owned barrier island only accessible by boat. With seven miles of untouched beaches, dense maritime forests, and sprawling marshes, it’s a haven for wildlife, including over 300 bird species, sea turtles, and plenty of alligators. The island hosts just 32 guests at a time, offering a remote, all-inclusive escape into nature.
Lanai City, Hawaii – A Tropical Gem
Lanai City, Hawaii, lands at number six. The only town on the tiny island of Lānaʻi, once known as the “Pineapple Island” for its massive Dole plantation, it features charming plantation-era buildings, boutique shops, and no traffic lights. With a population of around 3,300, the town is centered around leafy Dole Park.
Wallace, Idaho – A Historic Mining Town
Wallace, Idaho, takes the seventh spot. This storied mining town of under 800 residents in northern Idaho’s Silver Valley, once dubbed the “Silver Capital of the World,” is known for its brick-lined downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It preserves ornate 19th-century architecture and saloon-style charm while offering access to biking trails, ski slopes, and offbeat attractions like the Oasis Bordello Museum and the Sierra Silver Mine Tour.
Hidden Gems Across the U.S.
Other notable towns on the list include Bardstown, Kentucky; Camden, Maine; Fishtown (Leland), Michigan; Taos, New Mexico; and Medora, North Dakota. A hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest is Joseph, Oregon, a tiny alpine town with just over 1,100 residents, nestled beside Wallowa Lake and surrounded by the snowcapped Wallowa Mountains. Often dubbed the “Little Switzerland of America,” the town earns its nickname thanks to its dramatic glacier-carved peaks, crystal-clear lake, and annual Alpenfest celebration complete with yodeling and alphorns.
Additional Must-Visit Towns
More stunners on the list include Leavenworth, Washington; Bayfield, Wisconsin; Cody, Wyoming; Edenton, North Carolina; Galena, Illinois; Herman, Missouri; and Cape May, New Jersey. Each of these towns offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community charm, making them ideal destinations for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
