The Prettiest Towns and Small Cities in Each of the 50 U.S. States

Annapolis, Maryland, USA downtown view over Main Street with the State House.

From the tranquil coastal villages of New England to the rugged mountain towns of the West, each state boasts its own prettiest town, a place where natural landscapes harmonize with quaint architecture, creating postcard-perfect scenes. Join us as we traverse the nation, discovering the most beautiful towns that epitomize the allure and character of their respective states. Whether you seek historic charm, breathtaking vistas, or a blend of cultural influences, this curated list will inspire you to explore the unparalleled beauty that awaits in every corner of the country.

Mentone, Alabama

Mentone, AL, USA-Oct. 29, 2020: Autumn at Little River above DeSoto Falls
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Nestled atop Lookout Mountain, Mentone is a charming town surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Its picturesque setting includes rolling hills, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls. The town exudes a tranquil atmosphere with its art galleries, unique shops, and cozy bed and breakfasts. Visitors can explore nearby DeSoto State Park or enjoy scenic views from the rustic Brow Park Lookout. With its quaint charm and outdoor appeal, Mentone is a hidden gem and an excellent addition to any Alabama travel itinerary.

Talkeetna, Alaska

Talkeetna, Alaska - June, 21, 2016: Facade of stores and pubs in the small old town of Talkeetna
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Nestled at the base of Denali, North America’s highest peak, Talkeetna is a picturesque town surrounded by awe-inspiring mountain vistas and wilderness. The town’s rustic charm and quirky character make it a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan experience. Talkeetna offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and river rafting to flightseeing tours over Denali. Its historic downtown boasts colorful buildings, local art shops, and eateries serving fresh Alaskan seafood. With its stunning scenery and vibrant Alaskan spirit, Talkeetna is a captivating destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, AZ, USA - October 11, 2019: A well known city for its birthplace of copper mining place
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Perched on the side of Mingus Mountain, Jerome is a captivating town known for its stunning hillside views and unique character. Once a thriving mining town, Jerome is now an artist’s haven with a vibrant arts community and galleries lining its narrow streets. The town’s historic buildings, many of which have been converted into charming shops, cafes, and bed and breakfasts, add to its allure. Visitors can explore the fascinating Jerome State Historic Park or take in breathtaking vistas from various viewpoints around town. Jerome’s combination of artistic charm and dramatic landscapes makes it a must-visit destination in Arizona.

Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Eureka Springs, Arkansas, USA - July 5, 2021: Historic downtown Eureka Springs, AR, with boutique shops and famous buildings.
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Eureka Springs is a quaint town nestled in the Ozark Mountains. Its Victorian architecture, winding streets, and natural beauty have earned it the nickname “Little Switzerland of America.”

Mendocino, California

Mendocino, CA, March 8, 2020. View of town from the Mencocino Headlands State Park, USA, on a blue sky day with some clouds.
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Nestled along the rugged Northern California coastline, Mendocino is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, Victorian architecture, and stunning ocean views.

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
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Telluride is a picturesque mountain town surrounded by rugged peaks. Its well-preserved Victorian architecture, world-class ski slopes, and vibrant arts scene contribute to its allure.

Kent, Connecticut

Beautiful Connecticut countryside during foliage season, South Kent, Connecticut, USA
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Kent is a picturesque New England town nestled along the Housatonic River. It is known for its scenic beauty, historic buildings, and the stunning Kent Falls State Park.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Drone photo of Bethany Beach Delaware
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The town of Bethany Beach exudes a quaint and charming vibe. It is known for its family-friendly environment, with tree-lined streets, attractive architecture, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Anna Maria Island, Florida

Aerial view of Anna Maria Island town and beaches, barrier island on Florida Gulf Coast. Manatee County. USA
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 Anna Maria Island is a picturesque barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast. It offers stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. The town is known for its charming beach cottages, boutique shops, and delicious seafood restaurants. With no high-rise buildings and an abundance of natural beauty, Anna Maria Island provides a serene and idyllic escape for beach lovers and those seeking a tranquil coastal getaway in Florida.

Tallulah Falls, Georgia

Tallulah Falls, Georgia, USA overlooking Tallulah Gorge in the autumn season.
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Nestled in the scenic northeast Georgia mountains, Tallulah Falls is a charming town known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The town is surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and the impressive Tallulah Gorge. Visitors can hike the trails to overlooks with breathtaking views of the gorge and its roaring waterfalls. Tallulah Falls State Park also offers opportunities for picnicking, swimming, and camping. With its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, Tallulah Falls is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat in Georgia.

Hanalei, Hawaii

Beautiful Sunset Over Hanalei Bay, Kauai Hawaii
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Hanalei is a stunning town located on the north shore of Kauai. It offers lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed vibe.

McCall, Idaho

Little mountain town of McCall Idaho in winter with cars driving on the streets
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McCall is a picturesque mountain resort town situated on the shores of Payette Lake. It is surrounded by national forests and offers year-round outdoor activities.

Galena, Illinois

Galena Illinois
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Galena is a historic town with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Its hilly terrain and charming Main Street contribute to its appeal.

Nashville, Indiana

Nashville, Indiana, USA - The business district on Main Street
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Nashville is a quaint artist colony nestled in the scenic hills of southern Indiana. Its art galleries, craft shops, and Brown County State Park make it a popular destination.

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.
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Pella is a delightful Dutch-inspired town known for its annual Tulip Time festival, windmills, and charming architecture.

Lindsborg, Kansas

October, 2019, Lindsborg, Kansas, USA - The original Farmers State Bank building in Lindsborg, Kansas, is now home to City Hall and sports a bright red coat of paint.
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Lindsborg, also known as “Little Sweden, USA,” has a strong Swedish heritage reflected in its architecture, festivals, and traditions.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Bardstwon, Kentucky; USA; Sept. 26, 2020. The Old Talbott Tavern was built in 1779 which is one of the oldest and most popular resting spots because of its central location.
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Bardstown is a historic town in the heart of Kentucky’s bourbon country. Its well-preserved downtown, beautiful horse farms, and bourbon distilleries draw visitors.

Natchitoches, Louisiana

light trails at the Minor Basilica in Natchitoches Louisiana
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Natchitoches is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Its historic district, scenic Cane River Lake, and brick-lined streets contribute to its beauty.

Camden, Maine

Aerial view of Camden, Harbor Maine with fall foliage
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Camden is a picturesque harbor town on Maine’s rugged coastline. It offers beautiful views of the Penobscot Bay and the Camden Hills.

Annapolis, Maryland

Annapolis, Maryland, USA downtown view over Main Street with the State House.
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Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and boasts a beautiful waterfront, historic buildings, and the U.S. Naval Academy.

Edgartown, Massachusetts

Edgartown Lighthouse, on Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts - wide angle view.
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Edgartown is a charming village on Martha’s Vineyard with elegant homes, lighthouses, and beautiful beaches.

Traverse City, Michigan

Downtown Traverse City Michigan
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Traverse City is a charming town on the shores of Lake Michigan. It is known for its cherry orchards, wineries, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Stillwater, Minnesota

Cityscape view of Stillwater Minnesota from an aerial overlook in the fall
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Stillwater is a scenic river town on the St. Croix River. Its historic downtown, river views, and charming bed and breakfasts make it a popular destination.

Natchez, Mississippi

Natchez, Mississippi, United States - July 19 2009: Longwood Plantation Octagon House, an Antebellum Victorian Octagonal Mansion.
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Natchez is a picturesque town on the Mississippi River, known for its antebellum homes, beautiful gardens, and Southern hospitality.

Hermann, Missouri

old buildings in Hermann, Missouri
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Hermann is a charming German heritage town in Missouri wine country. Its vineyards, historic buildings, and festive events make it a favorite among visitors.

Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish, MT,USA - Juli 3 2019 - Mainstreet in Whitefish still has a smalltown feel to it. The town attracts many tourists in summer and winter.
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Whitefish is a scenic mountain town located near Glacier National Park. Its charming downtown, Whitefish Lake, and outdoor activities make it a popular destination.

Brownville, Nebraska

Brownville Bridge over the Missouri River on U.S. Route 136 from Nemaha County, Nebraska, to Atchison County, Missouri, at Brownville, Nebraska, aerial view in fall scenery with flooded river.
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Brownville is a historic river town situated along the Missouri River. Its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and arts community add to its charm.

Genoa, Nevada

Aerial View of the Genoa Nevada area in Carson Valley with barren trees, farmland and ranches.
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Genoa is Nevada’s oldest settlement, featuring a picturesque main street with historic buildings and stunning mountain views.

Hanover, New Hampshire

Hanover, New Hampshire USA - October 6, 2018: The Baker-Berry Library on the campus of Dartmouth College. Dartmouth College is a private Ivy League research university in Hanover, New Hampshire
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Hanover is a charming college town home to Dartmouth College. Its New England architecture, Dartmouth Green, and proximity to the Connecticut River make it attractive.

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May, NJ, June 24, 2015: Beach goers enjoy a beautiful day in Cape May, New Jersey.
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Cape May is a Victorian resort town known for its well-preserved architecture, beautiful beaches, and charming bed and breakfasts.

Taos, New Mexico

Ancient dwellings of UNESCO World Heritage Site named Taos Pueblo in New Mexico. Taos Pueblo is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in USA.
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Taos is a unique town with a blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures. Its adobe architecture, artistic community, and nearby Taos Pueblo are captivating.

Lake Placid, New York

Town of Lake Placid In Autumn, New York
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Lake Placid is a picturesque mountain village surrounded by the Adirondack Mountains. Its beautiful lakes, ski resorts, and Olympic history make it a year-round destination.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

BLOWING ROCK, NC, USA-11 MAY 2018:Tourists pass The Sunset Tee's & Hattery shop on Main St. in Blowing Rock, NC, USA.
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Blowing Rock is a charming mountain town known for its stunning views from the namesake rock, unique shops, and Blue Ridge Parkway access.

Medora, North Dakota

MEDORA, ND -12 SEP 2020- View of the main street in the historic town of Medora in North Dakota, United States.
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Medora is a quaint town located near Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Its western charm, musical performances, and scenic Badlands attract visitors.

Marietta, Ohio

Marietta, Ohio, USA, Jan. 11, 2020: Street view of downtown Marietta with cars parked at curb and the People’s Bank Theatre seen prominently.
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Marietta is Ohio’s oldest city and features a beautifully preserved historic district, lovely riverfront, and scenic landscapes along the Ohio River.

Guthrie, Oklahoma

Guthrie, Oklahoma, USA - April 23 2022: EIGHTY-NINER DAY CELEBRATION PARADE, April event commemorating Oklahoma's first land run, in the former Capitol of OK
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Guthrie is a charming town known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, historic district, and cultural events.

Ashland, Oregon

Aerial view of Ashland, Oregon
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Ashland is a delightful town known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and its beautiful Lithia Park, making it a haven for theater lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
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Jim Thorpe is a picturesque town nestled in the Pocono Mountains. Its Victorian architecture, scenic train rides, and outdoor adventures make it popular.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport, RI USA - December 19, 2020: The historic seaside city of Newport, Rhode Island features iconic architecture, whimsical signs and colorful displays of nature.
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Newport is a historic coastal town famous for its opulent Gilded Age mansions, stunning ocean views, and sailing culture.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Aerial sunset view of Beaufort, South Carolina. Panoramic picture from drone perspective.
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Beaufort is a charming town with antebellum architecture, moss-draped oaks, and a picturesque waterfront.

Deadwood, South Dakota

DEADWOOD, SD, USA - SEPTEMBER 15, 2020: Historic saloons, bars, and shops bring visitors to Main St. in this Black Hills gold rush town, famous for Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane.
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Deadwood is a historic Wild West town known for its preserved Gold Rush-era buildings, casinos, and Black Hills setting.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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Gatlinburg is a picturesque gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas, USA-07 September 2019 : The Main Street in Frederiksburg, Texas, also known as "The Magic Mile", with retail stores and poeple walking
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Fredericksburg is a German-inspired town known for its charming Main Street, wineries, and Texas Hill Country beauty.

Springdale, Utah

Springdale, Utah, USA - JULY 8, 2016: A small local town near the Zion National Park entrance
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Springdale is a scenic town located at the entrance of Zion National Park. Its red rock cliffs and outdoor adventures attract nature enthusiasts.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont - October 8, 2018 - Red barn and church next to a harvested cornfiield with the Autumn colors in the background
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Woodstock is a quintessential New England town with beautiful covered bridges, historic homes, and the Ottauquechee River.

Williamsburg, Virginia

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.
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Williamsburg is a historic town known for its Colonial Williamsburg living history museum and beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings.

Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth Washington USA 2019 09 13 Street Bavarian Village
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Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-style village surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, offering unique architecture, festivals, and outdoor recreation.

Lewisburg, West Virginia

Lewisburg, West Virginia
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Lewisburg is a picturesque town with historic buildings, arts and crafts shops, and access to outdoor activities in the Allegheny Mountains.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Cityscape view of Bayfield Wisconsin, as seen from the shores of Lake Superior
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Bayfield is a scenic town on the shores of Lake Superior. Its charming waterfront, Apostle Islands, and apple orchards make it an appealing destination.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING - AUG 10: Tourists walk on the main city street, August 10, 2006 in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. It has been named after Edward Jackson who trapped beaver in the area
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Jackson Hole is a stunning mountain town surrounded by the Teton Range and near Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, offering incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Each of the 50 U.S. States, According to Travelers

Na Pali coast, Kauai, Hawaii view from sea sunset cruise tour. Nature coastline landscape in Kauai island, Hawaii, USA. Hawaii travel.
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From the lush forests of Oregon to the majestic peaks of Colorado and the idyllic beaches of Florida, each of the 50 states boasts its own array of extraordinary destinations.

Read more: The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Each of the 50 U.S. States, According to Travelers

12 of the Most Beautiful Cities in the United States According to Americans

Savannah, Georgia, USA historic downtown sidewalks and rowhouses.
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From the skyscrapers of Chicago to the charming streets of Savannah, beauty can be found in various forms across the United States. But which city takes the title of the most beautiful? Recently, people shared their opinions on the most beautiful city in the US on an online platform.

Read more: 12 of the Most Beautiful Cities in the United States According to Americans

The Weirdest Tourist Attractions in Each of the 50 U.S. States, According to Travelers

Hooper, Colorado - July 14, 2014: An alien statue at the UFO watchtower near town of Hooper, in the state of Colorado, USA.
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From colossal balls of twine to peculiar museums, the 50 states that make up this diverse nation are home to an array of strange and offbeat tourist attractions.

Read more: The Weirdest Tourist Attractions in Each of the 50 U.S. States, According to Travelers

11 of the Most Enchanting, Bucket-List Worthy Places in the World

Hungarian parliament, Budapest at sunset
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From the bustling cities of Bangkok and Miami to the stunning natural beauty of Chiang Mai and Seville’s historic charm, these destinations will surely capture your imagination and inspire your next adventure.

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The Best Food to Try in Each of the 50 States, According to Americans

Beer Battered Wisconsin Cheese Curds with Dipping Sauce
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In this article, we will take you on a mouthwatering tour through all 50 states, exploring the most iconic and beloved dishes each region has to offer. From hearty Southern BBQ to New England seafood delights, and from Tex-Mex feasts to Pacific Northwest treats, the diverse flavors of American cuisine await. 

Read more: The Best Food to Try in Each of the 50 States, According to Americans