Planning to visit the US? Once you have decided on a date, remember to get your ESTA to ensure a hassle-free trip. Each state may have different laws and regulations but all require an ESTA. The ESTA form is easy to fill out as well and it will only take a few minutes. You also don’t need to visit an embassy and you can do everything online.
Whether you plan to explore the big, popular cities or mix it up with trodding off-the-beaten tracks, it’s definitely better to do so worry-free. Once you have secured that necessary but easy to accomplish requirement, it’s time to get even more excited!
The US may have the most fascinating and culturally diverse cities, but it’s more than just Los Angeles or New York. Each region and state has a unique geography, history, and culture.
Every state has its share of charming towns that are as captivating as its big cities. A lot of these towns can be easily explored as a day trip, but better as a weekend getaway. Here’s a list of the most beautiful towns in the USA that should be part of your upcoming visit.
15 Most Beautiful Towns in the USA
1. Asheville, North Carolina
You’ll probably have a view of the Blue Ridge Mountain from anywhere in Asheville, but this town is more than its beautiful backdrop.
Asheville is also known as a foodie heaven, with fantastic restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs. Before or after you have enjoyed the food, plenty of interesting sights await.
You can spend hours exploring the picturesque North Carolina Arboretum. There’s the grand Biltmore Estate or the stunning Omni Grove Park Inn if you’re after historic buildings.
2. Bayfield, Wisconsin
Bayfield might as well be synonymous with its top attraction: the breathtaking Lake Superior. The rugged coastline boasts of dramatic, unforgettable sights that’s perfect for a weekend trip at least.
Check out the Apostle Islands, which is both a national park and an archipelago. A must visit any time of the year, it is reachable by kayak from Lake Superior’s sandstone shores. A visit during summer lets you enjoy the islands’ old forests, rock formations, and lighthouses.
During winter, explore the ice caves that can be reached by ice bridges or dog sled. If you’re lucky and you happen to be by the Lake Superior on a clear night, you just might see the Northern Lights, too!
Bend, Oregon
Surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, Bend is a go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts. As a part of the High Desert region, this scenic town has a rich and fascinating local history.
Some great places to see if you want to know more about Bend are the Deschutes Historical Museum or the High Desert Museum.
If you enjoy nature walks, head on to the spectacular Newberry National Volcanic Monument or the picturesque Tumalo Falls.
Ready for a one of a kind adventure? Explore the otherworldly Lava River Cave, the longest in Oregon.
Big Sur, California
Be sure to get an ESTA ideally weeks before your planned trip to the US. You wouldn’t want to miss a chance to see this stunning California town.
The breathtakingly beautiful Big Sur boasts of dramatic cliffs to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It is a favorite hiking destination and retreats for the creative types — from acclaimed authors to popular musicians. It is also a popular and one of the most beautiful places in the world to do a road trip.
One simply won’t get enough of the stunning view. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can just cruise through town via Route 1, said to be one of the most scenic drives in the world.
Custer, South Dakota
For a taste of the Old West, Custer gives you buffalos and more. Established in late 1874, the town still just has a population of 2,000.
Stroll along the town center and marvel at beautiful centuries-old buildings. Depending on what time of the year you visit, you just might chance upon some unique local event or festival.
There’s the Buffalo Round-Up during fall, the Arts Festival or the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Custer is also a perfect base to explore some of America’s best attractions such as the nearby Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and the iconic Devil’s Tower National Monument.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
With its diverse geography, the picturesque Harpers Ferry is a wonderful discovery. Bordered by three states and with two major rivers running through town, the townscape is just stunning especially during the fall season.
There’s plenty of historic sites to explore here as well, such as the site of John Brown’s raid.
A must experience is a hike up the part of the stunning Appalachian Trail. It offers unparalleled views over Harpers Ferry and parts if nearby states.
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Idaho Falls gives visitors a taste of small-town life with opportunities for wild adventure thrown in.
Once you have your ESTA and planning your itinerary, consider this thriving Idaho town. It is often listed as one of the best places to live in the US, and one of those outdoor adventure hubs.
Apart from the rich cultural scene and arts community, Idaho Falls is home to waterfalls along the Snake River. It is also within easy reach of natural forests, the Craters of the Moon and Yellowstone National Park.
Lake Placid, New York
Surrounded by stunning scenery, Lake Placid in upstate New York is a must-visit outside of its popular city namesake.
Situated in the Adirondack Mountains, this village is beautiful all year round. It was established in the 19th century and retained much of its quaint small-town charm.
With its geography, Lake Placid is also a top destination for snow skiers as well as bikers and hikers.
Madison, Georgia
Easily a photographer’s dream, a walk around Madison in Georgia is like a walk inside a period movie set. Marvel at the stunning Antebellum and Victorian homes, or take in the scenic outdoor spaces.
Walk under majestic oak trees creating arches over quiet streets. In between enjoying Madison’s slower pace of life, check out the town’s most visited attractions.
See the Morgan County African-American Museum, the Heritage Hall or explore the many antique shops.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
If you’re willing to splurge and live like an oil sheik or Fortune 500 CEO for a few days or even night, Nantucket is for you.
Otherwise, you may just enjoy strolling the streets or cruising past gorgeous dream houses or vacation villas. A day trip or a drive to Nantucket is getting to know another face of small-town America. Listed as a National Historic Site, this New England town is where the rich come to chill out.
Got your US travel dates figured out yet? Go get your ESTA to fully enjoy a hassle-free visit to interesting US towns such as this one.
Paia, Hawaii
Hawaii is definitely a great excuse to leave the mainland. An ESTA ensures that you get to smoothly travel to all 51 states, and it’s an easy process, too! You get to visit breathtaking places such as Paia, located in Maui’s North Coast.
Explore the hip town center and get locally made beachwear. Indulge in the tasty offerings at the Paia Fish Market, then enjoy the beach. Ho’okipa Beach Park, to be exact is a must for its pristine white sand and crystal blue waters.
If you’re into surfing, you’d love Ho’okipa Beach’s near-perfect breaks.
Port Townsend, Washington
A visit to Port Townsend is a lovely mix of history, culture, and adventure. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, this vibrant town one of the three historic Victorian seaports in the country.
Stroll the historic uptown district to admire colorful Victorian mansions or the downtown area’s impressive century-old buildings. You may also check out the many unique cafes and restaurants, galleries and shops around.
Port Townsend is also home to a vibrant art scene, opportunities for outdoor adventures and various cultural events that you might chance upon when you visit.
Sedona, Arizona
Another unique town that’s a must-visit if only for its stunning landscape is Sedona. Set against red rock monoliths, stunning scenery abounds everywhere you look in this Arizona town.
Pack sturdy hiking shoes and explore the buttes, canyons, and spires. Stay here for a night or two and you might chance upon clear skies.
With its geography, Sedona’s evening skies are light pollution free and you get to marvel at a dazzling canopy of stars.
Sitka, Alaska
How about another trip out of the mainland and into what are regarded as the most beautiful town in Alaska? The townscapes are gorgeous, with the stunning ‘Sisters’ mountains in the backdrop.
This quaint seaside town also has a Wild West feel to it, with its interesting flat-fronted wooden buildings.
Sitka is laid back and edgy at the same time. It is cozy and quiet because of its remote location. Yet, the surrounding nature also caters to hikers, hunters, and fishermen.
If you’re planning to visit Alaska during your US trip, save yourself from any inconvenience by getting your ESTA soon as you got your travel dates figured out.
St. Augustine, Florida
This literal old town in Florida was founded by Spanish Conquistadors in 1565. A walk on the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine will introduce you to stunning Colonial architecture.
Examples of these are the 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos fortress and the Lightner Museum which is housed in a Spanish Renaissance Revival building from 1887.
St. Augustine, being situated bu the Atlantic coast, is also blessed with miles of sandy beach that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Get your ESTA
Each of these towns makes a great addition to your US itinerary. Spread across every region, you’d most likely find a place that’s easy to get to from most major cities.
But be sure to get everything sorted out before your travel, especially the easy to fill put ESTA which is a definite must. Once you have it, you’re all set. Have fun!
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