Best small towns in the US across 10 categories

Whether your idea of the perfect getaway is a history lesson, going to the theater, relaxing by the bay, indulging in good food, or shopping ’till you drop, there’s a small town for you.

With so many amazing places out there, we went on the hunt for the best small towns in each region and across multiple categories by teaming up with a panel of travel writers to help select nominees. Then, readers voted for the 10 best in each category. Here are the best small towns in the United States for 2024.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Best Coastal Small Town: Stuart, Florida

Stuart, Florida, claims the No. 1 spot for Best Coastal Small Town — Photo courtesy of Martin County Office of Tourism & Marketing

Part of Florida’s Treasure Coast, with the impressive Roosevelt Bridge to its north, is the under-the-radar town of Stuart. Walk along the St. Lucie River at Flagler Park or Shepard Park, both great spots for picnicking, fishing, or otherwise relaxing. The Stuart Heritage Museum, Road to Victory Military Museum, and restaurant-lined downtown Stuart are all among the local attractions.

Full list of winners: Best Coastal Small Town »

Best Historic Small Town: Ludington, Michigan

Learn all about Ludington, Michigan’s nautical history — Photo courtesy of Todd and Brad Reed Photography

Building its economy on the lumber industry, Ludington continued to thrive as a shipping port, both by water and by train. Today, visitors come to explore Ludington’s small-town charm, take advantage of its waterfront location for swimming, boating, and more, and shop at its many specialty shops and art galleries.

Explore the town’s past at Historic White Pine Village and the Port of Ludington Maritime Musem.

Full list of winners: Best Historic Small Town »

Best Small College Town: Oxford, Mississippi

There’s a lot for visitors to enjoy in Oxford, Mississippi, home of the University of Mississippi — Photo courtesy of Visit Oxford

Oxford, Mississippi, may not be on your radar, but it should be! Just 90 minutes outside of Memphis, the charming live oak-laden home to “Ole Miss” (the University of Mississippi) holds a classic town square, where you’ll find the iconic two-story Square Books anchoring a corner with its wide veranda.

Dining options include James Beard chef-helmed eateries, soul food, and comfort food served at a gas station. The college campus is a mere stroll away from downtown.

Full list of winners: Best Small College Town »

Best Small Town Cultural Scene: Alamosa, Colorado

Plan a cultural escape to Alamosa, Colorado — Photo courtesy of Visit Alamosa

Located in the heart of Colorado’s San Luis Valley, the town of Alamosa offers a unique perspective on the Centennial State that’s far removed from its classic Rocky Mountain landscapes.

The location provides access to fantastic public art and the history-focused San Luis Valley Museum, while nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is equipped with some of the tallest dunes in all of North America.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town Cultural Scene »

Best Small Town Food Scene: Lewisburg, West Virginia

Lewisburg, West Virginia, wins Best Small Town Food Scene for second year in a row — Photo courtesy of Sheena Pendley

There’s a lot to eat in downtown Lewisburg at morning, noon, and night. Grab a sweet treat from Amy’s Market, pick up some baked goods and soups from Corn + Flour, tuck into a steak at Food & Friends, or enjoy brick oven pizza in a relaxed atmosphere at Hill and Holler.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town Food Scene »

Best Small Town in the Midwest: Madison, Indiana

Madison, Indiana, wins Best Small Town in the Midwest — Photo courtesy of Brent Spry

Madison, Indiana, has played a major role in the history of the Midwest since the 19th century, with many local residents assisting passengers with their escape from Kentucky through the Underground Railroad.

Visitors here can experience the full splendor of the surrounding Ohio River, heading west to marvel at waterfalls along Clifty Falls State Park, then setting off for the downtown district to embark on a Rockin’ Thunder River Tour.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the Midwest »

Best Small Town in the Northeast: Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania

For an outdoorsy adventure, head to Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania, the best small town in the Northeast — Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

In southwestern Pennsylvania, Ohiopyle is situated along the meandering Youghiogheny River and draws adventurers of all ages with its rugged charm and variety of natural wonders. Famous for Ohiopyle State Park, this area invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience many diverse activities, including first-rate white-water rafting, rock climbing, wildlife spotting, and incredible waterfall hikes.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the Northeast »

Best Small Town in the South: Starkville, Mississippi

Readers say Starkville, Mississippi, is the best small town in the South — Photo courtesy of BOB WESTON / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Home to Mississippi State University, Starkville is much more than just a college town. You’ll find a thriving arts scene, multiple historic districts, many opportunities for bird-watching, and plenty of great food. Don’t miss checking out the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library, a treasure trove of artifacts and correspondence.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the South »

Best Small Town in the West: Seward, Alaska

Seward, Alaska, wins the No. 1 spot for Best Small Town in the West — Photo courtesy of Janessa Anderson

Known as the gateway to the majestic Kenai Fjords National Park, this port city offers an array of excursions for folks hoping to see glaciers up close, spot orcas and other wildlife, and be immersed in the culture of the Indigenous peoples of the area.

The best part is there are so many ways to do all these things, from going dog sledding to enjoying a tour via kayak, or even visiting the Alaska SeaLife Center to see puffins and sea lions up close.

Full list of winners: Best Small Town in the West »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more of our Readers’ Choice Awards.