These are 14 of the best small towns in America

16.09.2024 - 20:51 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 16, 2024 • 12 min read

Sometimes it’s nice to slow down. Across the United States, there are scores of small towns where you can do just that. Lonely Planet’s top choices feature fascinating attractions, good eats and unique personality – everything that makes for a great getaway.

From a former Southwest mining community to a laid-back Hawaiian surf town, here’s a list of the 14 best small towns in America. Each destination has a population of less than 20,000, and they’re all excellent options for your next escape.

The vibe: living history, impressive architecture

St Augustine is the "oldest city in the US", or rather, the oldest continuously occupied European settlement. Because it’s been around so long, the city features various architectural styles, from Moorish Revival to Spanish Colonial.

Historic reenactments occur year-round, particularly on and around Aviles Street. Purported to be the oldest street in the country, Aviles is home to several landmark sites. This includes Flagler College and the Lightner Museum, both built by financier Henry Flagler in 1888.

Learn more about local history at Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. It's the site of the spring once believed to be the Fountain of Youth. Don’t skip Lincolnville, either. This Black neighborhood was settled by formerly enslaved people in 1866. The Lincolnville Museum & Cultural Center on MLK Avenue honors their place in history. 

For snacks and souvenirs, stroll down the pedestrian-only St. George Street. Plus, find great antiquing on San Marcos Avenue. Learn more with this guide on the top things to do in St Augustine.

The vibe: Old West with a modern twist

Travel about 300 miles south of Sedona’s red rocks and energy vortexes for the former mining town of Bisbee. The former “Queen of the Copper Camps” is now a destination for creative and outdoorsy types. Bisbee offers a glimpse of the Old West via mine tours, museums and heritage sites like the Lowell Americana Project.

But it’s not just a time capsule. Modern makers have shops on Main Street selling custom hats, vintage clothes, books and jewelry. There are breweries and restaurants for every taste, and the art scene is a lively one. Visit independent galleries, or explore the Artemizia Foundation’s museum to see works by artists such as Banksy and Kara Walker. Plan a trip around the monthly art walk, or visit in June for the Pride festival. While you’re in Arizona, consider tackling this Route 66 road trip, too.

The vibe: Wine Country-casual

Whether you’re on a Pacific Coast Highways road trip or planning a Northern California Wine Country vacation, Calistoga is a must-see destination. At the top end of Napa Valley, Calistoga sits 75 miles north of San Francisco. It’s