The 50 Most Underrated Small Towns In America
By EXPLORE STAFF
If you want to enjoy sunny weather, pristine beaches, wildlife preserves, and unspoiled parks without having to deal with crowds, then you’ll love this little community in Escambia County, near Pensacola. People have a laid-back attitude, traffic is minimal and everything is just a short drive away.
Perdido Key, Florida
Alaska's beautiful seaside town of Sitka has views of the island-studded sea and stately spruce forests reaching the water's edge. Visit the Fortress of the Bear, go whale-watching, or explore Alaska's oldest national 113-acre park, the site of a battle between Tlingit and Russian forces in 1804, and the scenic Totem Trail.
Sitka, Alaska
Only 15 miles from both the Pacific Ocean and the Russian River, the charming town of Sebastopol, California, is a gorgeous mosaic of creeks, open water, and riparian forests. You can explore the Barlow culinary and arts center, and nearby Laguna de Santa Rosa, the largest freshwater wetlands complex in Northern California.
Sebastopol, California
Skiing, biking, rafting, delicious food, and good beer — you name it, Durango, Colorado, has it. A top destination for train enthusiasts, the San Juan range has over 300 days of sunshine to stay at a ranch, go horseback riding or fly fishing, or try adrenaline-pumping adventures such as zip lining.
Durango, Colorado
There are 49 colleges within 50 miles of Amherst Center in Massachusetts, but it’s not just for college students. There are many can't-miss activities, ranging from attending special events to getting involved in the arts.
Amherst Center, Massachusetts