21 of the Best Small Towns in America

LINK

Includes:

Dahlonega, Georgia
Though on the opposite side of the country, Dahlonega has a lot in common with Jacksonville, Oregon. It was the site of the first gold rush in the U.S. and is also known today for its many wineries.


Stowe, Vermont
Skiing might be the most popular tourist pastime in Stowe, but the town has much more to offer. In addition to the myriad outdoor activities (like zip-lining and rock climbing), there are more than 70 shops and nearly 40 restaurants. It's also home to the Trapp Family Lodge, the resort owned by the Von Trapp family made famous in The Sound of Music.


Camden, Maine
Situated between Portland and Bar Harbor, this seaside town is surrounded by stunning landscapes perfect for adventure seekers, but it also has its fair share of cultural attractions, like the Camden Opera House. Its population surges each summer when the beach lovers arrive, but the off-season is still a prime time to visit.



Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort is the second-oldest city in South Carolina after Charleston, and you can get a taste of that history through its abundant antebellum homes. Fishing, boating, and other water sports are popular in the town, which is located on Port Royal Island. You might recognize Beaufort from Forrest Gump, which used the bucolic setting during filming.


Breckenridge, Colorado
During the gold rush, Breckenridge mines produced approximately one million troy ounces of gold (about 68,500 pounds). Though the mines are now closed, the town's historic district preserves much of the era's commercial and residential atmosphere. While skiing, of course, is a big draw, Breckenridge is also known for its vibrant arts scene.