10 Historic Small Towns in the US

Steeped in its Civil War past, Gettysburg may be known for its infamous battlefield, but the borough caters to more than America’s history buffs. Here, picturesque hiking trails, characterful architecture, and one-of-a-kind shopping are elevated by farm-to-table taverns and chic upscale restaurants.

Gettysburg is a town where you can easily spend a weekend exploring the Beyond the Battle Museum, touring the home of former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, or enjoying a spot of retail therapy at the Bobbi Becker Gallery. For eating and drinking, swing by The Inn at Herr Ridge for smoked beef brisket or the Tattered Flag Tap Room for a refreshing craft beer.

Casting its gaze over the deep blue Atlantic, St Augustine is the oldest European settlement in America, dating back to 1565. Boasting a National Historic Landmark District distinguished by charming lanes, Spanish Colonial architecture, and quaint little inns, the city is bolstered by its many attractions including restaurants, monuments, and beaches.

Step inside the Lightner Museum, a former 19th century hotel now filled with exquisite objects from the Gilded Age, or stroll to the Cathedral Basilica to view an interior resplendent with sparkling stained glass and eye-catching murals. For a day at the seaside, saunter down to St Augustine Beach for powder-soft sands and big-wave surfing.

With the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains serving as a backdrop, historic Taos is the jewel in New Mexico’s crown, as celebrated for its World Heritage Site pueblo as it is for its supernatural skies and natural wonders that have drawn those with a creative soul since time immemorial.

Situated in the high desert, this unforgettable art colony serves up Southwestern cuisine, world-class museums, old-world adobe, and deep spiritual experiences at mystical sites such as Santuario de Chimayo (a chapel renowned for its holy dirt). Visit Mesa's Edge for Native American jewelry, Martinez Hacienda for a glimpse of the Taos frontier, before grabbing a bite to eat at the rustic Sagebrush Grill.

Just 20 minutes from the Michigan mainland by ferry, Mackinac Island is a characterful and compact vacation spot on the brilliant blue waters of Lake Huron. No cars are allowed here, so you’ll venture to its many attractions by horse-drawn carriage, tandem bicycle, or simply by walking.

Try the island’s world-famous fudge at one of its old-fashioned sweet shops or ascend dramatic limestone cliffs to an 18th century fort where you can take in a canon-firing display by costumed reenactors. At sunset, dine at one of Mackinac’s many waterfront restaurants where you’ll enjoy succulent seafood caught fresh in the Straits.

Nestled in the undulating hills of northwest Illinois, Galena is a riverside town renowned for its fascinating mining history, serene natural beauty, and 19th century architecture (much of which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places).

The home of former President Ulysses S. Grant, this Midwestern settlement boasts a multitude of bed and breakfasts, a collection of acclaimed golf courses, eclectic dining and drinking, and over 100 retail shops. Take in the historic district on a narrated trolley tour before enjoying big helpings of comfort food (and award-winning wines) at Fried Green Tomatoes restaurant.

Boasting more 18th century buildings than anywhere else in America, Annapolis is an architectural wonder that deserves to be seen. Delivering sweeping vistas over Chesapeake Bay, where bright white yachts dance in the harbor, Maryland’s capital is awash with visitor attractions including landmark houses, a thriving community arts district, and enthralling museums.

Ride the cherry-colored trolley car for stunning views of the Severn River and an impressive collection of colonial mansions. Afterward, stop by Paca House and Garden, a National Historic Landmark, for an exclusive glimpse into old-world Annapolis. The neighborhood of Eastport is the go-to spot for foodies who are seeking stylish waterfront dining. Try the award-winning crab cakes at the Boatyard Bar & Grill or whole marine lobster at O’Leary’s restaurant.

Celebrated for its down-home Cajun cuisine, French Creole townhouses, and rich European roots, Natchitoches is one of the oldest settlements in Louisiana. Wander the National Historic District to see buildings dating back to the 1700s before feasting on the city’s famous meat pies at Lasyone’s, an old-school Southern diner.

Venture further into Cane River country to explore the Oakland, Magnolia, and Melrose plantations, or step back in time to 1980s Hollywood on a Steel Magnolias movie tour. Wildlife lovers will enjoy a day out on the Saline Bayou Paddle Trail—a place where you can canoe through the cypress forests to see alligators and snapping turtles.

Located in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, Berkley Springs is an idyllic slice of Appalachian paradise that’s so much more than meets the eye. With its healing thermal waters, replica castle, craft breweries, and eclectic retail and dining, it’s a perfect place to take a vacation, especially when you want a break from the city.

Horseback ride along scenic trails, troll the rivers for smallmouth bass, or whitewater raft at the New River Gorge. Expand your culinary palette at one of Berkeley Springs’ many eateries including The Country Inn, Lot 12 Public House, and Angus and Ale.

Don’t be fooled by its coal mining history, Jim Thorpe in eastern Pennsylvania is so much more than lumps of black rock. Set in the picturesque Pocono Mountains, the town is bathed in a quintessential European charm due to its elegant Victorian mansions and an array of cultural drawcards.

Affectionately known as “The Switzerland of America”, Jim Thorpe attracts visitors every year with its Pocono Beverage Trail (breweries, distilleries, wineries), distinctive museums, and Lehigh Gorge State Park which comes alive in fall with its rich gold, orange, and vermillion color palette. For locally sourced dishes try the historic Stone Row Pub and the Libation Lounge for spirits and beers.

For a true taste of the Old West, nothing beats a visit to Bisbee. Set amidst the arid Mule Mountains in Southeastern Arizona, this historic mining town is awash with Wild West tales about the Cochise County Cowboys and other infamous outlaws.

Now a buzzing arts community, this desert oasis has plenty to offer including adventures inside Copper Queen Mine and an Old Bisbee Ghost Tour that promises spine-tingling, hair-raising tales. At night, the streets come alive with good-time bars and restaurants, including Screaming Banshee Pizza and the live music haunt, St Elmo’s.