50 Whimsical Towns in the US

Whether you're looking to be swept away by natural beauty, indulged in your passion for history or surrounded by unusual and interesting art, we've got you covered. Take a stroll with us as we travel across the country to find out which town is the most curious and fantastical in every state. Your summer travel bucket list just got even better!

Magnolia Springs

With a population of just over 800, this historic little town on the Magnolia River might seem too small to bother, but it's definitely worth a visit. Magnolia Springs is a place where time stands still. With limited lodging and restaurant options, this delightfully slow-moving city may not be big on amenities, but it's big on hospitality, small-town charm and unimaginable natural beauty.

Homer

This small city near Alaska's Ketmai National Park is truly one of the most magical places in the whole state. With endless outdoor recreation, including brown bear-watching, tidepooling, fishing, kayaking and more, it's easy to see why Homer is so popular for adventurous getaways. The majestic mountains, wooded trails, glaciers, lakes and pristine ocean offer visitors a chance for fun and unsurpassed wonder.

Jerome

Once a booming copper-mining town with more than 10,000 residents, today Jerome is a quaint frontier community of just over 400 people. Steeped in history, this charming town offers numerous museums, monuments and a groovy artist co-op to satiate every visitor, especially those fascinated with the Wild West.

Eureka Springs

This gorgeous staircase mural alone is a great reason to visit this thriving community nestled near the Ozark Mountains, but Eureka Springs has so much more to offer. Visit its wildlife refuge, beautiful parks, numerous museums and landmarks—or tempt your fear with a frightfully fun ghost tour at the famed Crescent Hotel.

San Juan Capistrano

Located just 10 minutes from the pristine California coast, this Spanish adobe and brick city in Orange County is rich with history, beauty and old world charm. Visit San Juan Capistrano's famous mission, founded in 1775, or peruse the town's unique shops and tasty restaurants. If you arrive in March, you might be lucky enough to catch the magnificent flight of the swallows that migrate each year from Argentina.

Vail

This mesmerizing town has long been known for its world-class skiing, but there's even more to do in Vail when the snow melts! The quaint, cottage feel of the town was inspired by the Swiss Alps, giving it true European charm. Walk through its many gardens, visit the award-winning restaurants or catch a show at the stunning amphitheater. Since everything in Vail is within walking distance, you won't need a car to get around, either.

Greenwich

This stunning town caters to travelers who love a bit of luxury. Located just a short train ride away from NYC, Greenwich has long been a rural escape for city dwellers. Not only does this thriving town offer dramatically beautiful natural scenery, but it also has four-star restaurants, hotels, spas and shopping to keep visitors relaxed and happy during their entire stay.

Bethany Beach

As if lounging by the shore weren't vacation-worthy enough, Bethany Beach is a place where visitors can hang 10 all vacation long. Stroll its almost half-mile-long boardwalk, dip into one of the many delicious restaurants, rent a bike for a scenic ride or book an appointment at one of the many salons and spas. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even take the fun to the open seas on a chartered boat or kayak tour.

Matlacha

This hidden Floridian paradise is not to be missed, especially for travelers who are fond of destinations that are as beautiful as they are funky. Matlacha (pronounced Matt-la-shay) was established in the 1920s as a fishing village in what is known as "Old Florida." Today it's a haven for artists, with some of the most intriguing murals and buildings around. Not only pretty, Matlacha is also a stomping ground for travelers who love exploring nature.

Helen

Once a railroad and logging community, Helen was known for its sparse decor until it got a much-needed Bavarian-inspired face lift in the 1960s. Today, Helen is known for its Oktoberfest and Christmas celebrations, but it also offers travelers something magical during every season. This tiny town of just over 500 people is a wonderful place to explore German food culture, see stunning architecture and, in the summer, to go tubing down the river.

Haleiwa

Located on Oahu's North Shore, Haleiwa is one part surfer's paradise and two parts small-town charm. With breathtaking beach views, numerous independent local retailers and restaurants, and loads of aloha spirit, it's easy to see why this laid-back, scenic destination is a favorite among tourists and celebrities, including surfer and singer Jack Johnson.

McCall

Located in Northwestern Idaho, McCall is a small but lovely resort town near Payette National Forest and Ponderosa State Park. While the town is known for its winter ski slopes, there's plenty to do in McCall during the warmer summer months, including whitewater rafting, boat tours, fishing, exploring the town's history or just hanging out by the lake at Art Roberts Park (seen here).

Galena

Tucked away in Northwestern Illinois is the small but mighty town of Galena. This former mining community was once the home of former President Ulysses S. Grant and today boasts a large percentage of well-preserved historic buildings from the early to mid-19th century, including the U.S. Grant home. Along with tours of the city, visitors can also enjoy a trip to Galena's winery and vineyard or relax in one of its luxurious day spas.

Nashville

Not to be confused with Nashville, Tennessee, this Brown County community was once an artist's colony in the early 20th century. Today, this scenic mountain destination is as famous for its antique shops as it is for its art and history. With dozens of artisanal shops, quaint rental cottages and beautiful hiking trails, Nashville has a little bit of something for everyone.

Amana Colonies

Founded in 1855 by a German religious sect seeking to expand its communal way of living, the Amana Colonies of today include seven villages that have preserved the past while working to embrace the future. The 26,000 acres of the Amana Colonies include historic brick and clapboard buildings and artisanal shops (like The Chocolat Haus), where local vendors spread their love of old world German culture and hospitality.

Wamego

This small Kansas town was incorporated in 1868 as a railroad hub, but later transformed into a charming vacation destination known for its unusual attractions. One such delight is the Oz Museum, dedicated to the beloved 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz." Other interesting hot spots in Wamego include the Schonhoff Dutch Mill (seen here) and the birthplace of Walter P. Chrysler, founder of the Chrysler Corporation.

Danville

Known as "The City of Firsts," Danville boasts a long legacy of blazing new trails, including opening the first African-American school in the county and being the first capital of Kentucky. Today this quaint community has even more to offer, including wine and distillery tours, museums and historic landmarks and performing arts venues.

St. Francisville

While New Orleans is a popular Louisiana destination, we think St. Francisville deserves some love, too. With roots stretching back to the 1790s, this Louisiana bayou is rich with history and lore as well as small-town charm. Whether travelers peruse the many historical sites (including centuries-old plantations and haunting cemeteries) or stroll through lush botanical gardens, they're guaranteed to get caught by this town's enduring magic.

Rockport

This popular vacation spot in the northeast is also supremely charming. Settled in 1769, the Rockport of today is both a historic harbor town and a beloved art colony. Known for its famed Andre the Seal statue, scenic Rockport celebrates all things ocean, including some of the tastiest seafood. Also not to be missed: Rockport Diner Family Restaurant's mouth-watering blueberry pie.

St. Michaels

Founded in the 17th century as a tobacco and fur-trading post, St. Michaels later grew to become a prominent ship-building community. Today, this tiny town of just over 1,000 residents is a beautiful and historic destination with its eye on tourism. Visitors will enjoy the many tours and museums as well as the ample galleries. There's even a winery and brewery to sample local adult beverages.

Nantucket

If cobblestone streets, quaint cottage homes, impressive church steeples and unique boutiques aren't whimsical, we don't know what is. The former whaling town of Nantucket is a popular tourist destination today, but don't plan on driving there. You can only reach this island getaway two ways: by plane or boat.

Mackinac Island

A trip to Michigan's Mackinac Island is like stepping back in time to the Victorian era. There are no cars on the entire island, but rather horse-drawn carriages and endless bike rentals, which helps solidify the romantic feel of this popular getaway. Along with historical landmarks, Mackinac Island also has a gorgeous state park, endless hiking trails and many cool museums, boutiques and artisanal delights.

Stillwater

While anyone can visit St. Paul, those looking for a little more whimsy should head to Stillwater, a delightful river town that holds the title as Minnesota's first city. Like many historic towns, this former lumbering community offers visitors a plethora of enchantment and learning opportunities through their landmarks and museums. Other fun activities include antiquing, riverboat rides and exploring the many delicious local restaurants.

Oxford

There's a reason some of the biggest names in literature (like William Faulkner, whose statue is seen here) made their way to Oxford. It's one of the most charming and beautiful small towns in the south. This popular artist's colony is also known for its college—the University of Mississippi—as well as its thriving local businesses including bookstores, restaurants and live music venues.

Hermann

South of the Missouri River is the enchanting town of Hermann, named for one of the town's founders, Edward Hermann. True to its European roots, this northwestern community makes visitors feel as if they're stepping foot into old-world Germany. Known as Missouri's "Most Beautiful Town," this charming destination is rich with history, architectural beauty and lots of entertainment.

Butte

Although Butte's history (which includes one of the largest rock-mining disasters in the world) isn't the prettiest, it's easy to see why this charming copper mining town is a beloved travel destination. From its wide variety of scenic outdoor activities to its unique art installations, landmarks, historic monuments and locally owned businesses, Butte knows how to capture visitors' hearts and hold them tight.

Kearney

Not only is Kearney home to the University of Nebraska, it's also home to the Great Platte River Road Archway (seen here), a museum documenting Kearney's history in shaping the West. The enchanting town is filled to the brim with museums, parks and restaurants, including The George Spencer Tasting Room, which features 19 different local Nebraska wines for patrons' sipping pleasure.

Ely

Founded in the 19th century as a stagecoach station, Ely later became a booming mining town when copper was discovered in the early 20th century. Today Ely's a favorite travel destination for art and history lovers. With more than 22 breathtaking murals and sculptures, historical landmarks, museums and its famous Renaissance Village, Ely gives visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about the town's exciting history.

Exeter

Streets lined with mom and pop shops, blooming New England foliage and happy faces make Exeter one of the most charming vacation destinations in New Hampshire. Known for the Phillips Exeter Academy and the American Independence Museum, this small community is also home to historic landmarks, beautiful parks and hiking trails.

Cape May

A favorite beach resort in southern New Jersey, Cape May grew from a Native American hunting grown to a whaling and fishing community in the 17th century. This historic village is a window to the past, with beautiful Victorian homes lining the streets and numerous landmarks, museums and monuments, including the Cape May Lighthouse and WWII Lookout Tower. Don't forget to check out its very cool alpaca farms!

Chimayo

In northern New Mexico sits the tiny but mighty town of Chimayo, founded in the late 1600s by Spanish settlers. It's best known for El Santuario de Chimayó, a historic Roman Catholic church built in 1813 that welcomes more than 300,000 pilgrims each year hoping for healing from its purported "miracle dirt." This beautiful Tewa Indian and Hispanic community is also a hub for Native arts, including weaving and mouthwatering culinary traditions.

Cooperstown

Home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, the city of Cooperstown is like a slice of apple pie in central New York. Set against the Otsego Lake, this charming community offers visitors a wide variety of fun, including water sports, nature trails, exclusive shopping, fine dining and, for history and literature buffs, relics from the past, including some from America's first major novelist, James Fenimore Cooper.

New Bern

Located on North Carolina's famed Inner Banks, this riverfront community is a delightful place to get lost in history while taking part in all that the south has to offer. Known for being the birthplace of Pepsi, New Bern is also remembered for its role in the American Civil War. Today, visitors can explore Tryon Palace to learn about New Bern's incredible past, or head downtown to peruse the many shops, restaurants and surrounding natural beauty of this charming city.

Valley City

If a small town with beautiful, natural scenery speaks to you, then Valley City is a must on your travel bucket list. With meandering highways and rolling hills set against the Sheyenne River, this verdant community offers endless outdoor activities while also giving visitors a chance to marvel at its historic bridges and explore Valley City's Native American roots.

Yellow Springs

With just over 3,600 residents, Yellow Springs is the definition of a small town, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in sheer natural beauty. With three major parks offering scenic hiking trails and even waterfalls, outdoor recreation is a beloved pastime in Yellow Springs. The arts are also important to this almost 200-year-old village community, with theaters, galleries, museums and more available year-round.

Guthrie

This Oklahoma town's roots reach back to the mid-19th century, when a land grab inspired settlers from the east to stake their claim on undeveloped territories in the west. Today, Guthrie is proud of its past and has worked hard to make the city's downtown the largest Historic Preservation District in the country. Visitors can tour the Victorian homes and buildings by trolley or even horse-drawn carriage, adding to the old-timey charm of this community.

Florence

Originally inhabited by the Siuslaw people, this coastal tribal village was eventually incorporated in the mid-19th century by pioneers heading west, turning it into a lumbering and fishing community. Today, Florence is a beautiful blend of Native American and pioneer culture with a strong grasp of its blended history. Visitors will marvel at the natural beauty of Florence while also relishing the opportunity to learn about the past and explore the more modern side via artisanal shops and boutiques.

Jim Thorpe

This unusually named Pennsylvania town was once called Mauch Chunk, but was later renamed Jim Thorpe in 1954 to celebrate the beloved Native American athlete buried there in '53. Coined the "Switzerland of America," this city took its inspiration from European villages of old and continues to maintain that old-world charm and wonder it's become famous for, with stunning architecture, breathtaking natural scenery and a fascinating history they're proud to share.

Newport

Located on Aquidneck Island, Newport is a harbor town that was incorporated in 1639. Today, this coastal community is famous for its colonial architecture and postcard-worthy scenery. Visitors especially love exploring the lighthouses of Narragansett Bay, hitting up the numerous breweries and vineyards and touring the many museums and historic landmarks.

Charleston

Although Charleston is by no means a small town, it's definitely got the leg up on charm. Founded in 1670 as a port city, Charleston grew to become a southern stronghold, with a history that's as complex and complicated as it is beautiful. It's home to historic plantations, the Old Slave Mart Museum documenting Charleston's painful past in the slave trade, and a plethora of parks, markets and shops that braid together this community's vibrant, unique cultures.

Deadwood

This gold-mining town in South Dakota's Black Hills was once the stomping ground of some of the most notorious names in the Wild West, including Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Deadwood still retains a bit of its 19th century outlaw charm, with fully operational saloons, casinos and even a gold mine. History buffs will love touring the museums and historical landmarks, including Mount Moriah cemetery to pay homage to the western legends buried there.

Knoxville

What makes Knoxville so special is that it combines its rich history dating back to 1791 with modern, big-city life, giving residents and visitors a chance to learn, explore, unwind and celebrate all things Tennessee. Downtown features 19th-century architecture packed with endless restaurants and entertainment, while within the city limits you can get lost touring museums, historic sites, the amazing zoo, world-class theaters and the 101-year-old Savage House and Garden.

Fredericksburg

Welcome to Texas wine country. Fredericksburg is located in the beloved Texas Hill Country and is famous for its southern hospitality, 160-year-old history and, of course, its romantic vineyards. Settled by German immigrants in the 19th century, Fredericksburg still carries a bit of that old world European charm that makes it stand out in a state known for BBQ and rodeo.

Brigham City

What began as a settlement of Mormon pioneers in the mid-19th century has grown today to become one of the loveliest small towns in Utah. Not only does Brigham City, nestled against the beautiful Wellsville Mountains, have a vibrant modern community that prizes theater and the arts, but it's also home to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge and a popular wildlife education center.

Manchester

In southern Vermont, amid the Green Mountains, is the charming town of Manchester. As if it were plucked straight from a storybook, Manchester is one of those delightful cities with covered bridges, country roads, towering steeples, family-owned businesses and an overwhelming sense of community. With roots that go as far back as the late 18th century, this quaint country escape has plenty of time to master the fine art of hospitality.

Staunton

If wide expanses of farm land, gorgeous natural scenery, antique buildings, independently owned businesses and historical landmarks speak to your soul, then a trip to Staunton is a must. Located in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, this 272-year-old community is a magical place with amazing restaurants, theaters, museums and shops, all waiting for you to explore.

Leavenworth

While Leavenworth is known throughout the country for its magical Christmas display, it's also an amazing vacation destination year-round. With endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation (including live theaters, quaint shops, wineries and river-rafting tours to name a few), this scenic central northwestern community has a little bit of everything, making it one of our favorite places to visit.

Shepherdstown

Although small, Shepherdstown, which was settled in 1762, has a lot of history to share. A major player in the Civil War, this West Virginia city continues to pay homage to the past with its historic district and the Antietam Battlefield, where visitors can learn about the early days and battles fought during the fight for freedom in America. Overlooking the Potomac River, this former colonial city also has a vibrant German Street with beautiful inns, shops and restaurants.

New Glarus

This Green County village is also called "America's Little Switzerland" thanks to early Swiss settlers who immigrated to Wisconsin in the mid-19th century. With old-world European architecture, historical landmarks, museums, live events and incredible restaurants, New Glarus feels like a trip to another country (and another time) without needing a passport.

Dubois

Pronounced "Dew-boys" (rhyming with "cowboys"), this whimsical Wyoming town is far enough away to feel like a true escape, while having all the amenities travelers could want. Celebrating its frontier history, Dubois is big on outdoor recreation and celebrating its past. A true cowboy community, visitors can even stay on guest ranches for an authentic experience far from the hustle and bustle of city life.