1. Bentonville, Arkansas
Bentonville might be best known as the home of Walmart, but it’s quickly becoming an arts and outdoor recreation hub, according to Kira Reinke’s Barneby article. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, founded by a Walmart heir, houses an impressive collection of works from artists like Norman Rockwell and Andy Warhol. The museum’s architecture alone is worth the visit, as it seamlessly blends into the surrounding Ozark landscape. Meanwhile, the city’s world-class mountain biking trails are drawing thrill-seekers from around the country.
Bentonville’s food scene is also on the rise, with innovative chefs bringing a modern twist to Southern cuisine. The city’s small size makes it easy to explore, and its mix of history, art, and adventure keeps visitors coming back. New boutique hotels and trendy coffee shops are popping up, signaling that Bentonville is on the verge of something big. If you want to see a city in the midst of a transformation, now’s the time to visit.
2. Boise, Idaho
Boise has quietly become one of the most exciting cities in the Pacific Northwest, and people are finally starting to notice, Jeanne Croteau reveals in Forbes. With its booming food scene, miles of biking trails, and a thriving arts district, it offers a perfect mix of nature and culture. The Boise River Greenbelt is a dream for outdoor lovers, while downtown is packed with trendy restaurants and breweries. Plus, the influx of young professionals and creatives is giving the city an energetic, forward-thinking vibe.
The city’s affordability compared to places like Portland and Seattle makes it even more attractive for visitors and new residents alike. The Basque Block, celebrating Boise’s unique Basque heritage, is a hidden gem with delicious cuisine and lively festivals. Wine lovers will be surprised to find that Idaho has a growing wine scene, with nearby Snake River Valley producing some excellent bottles. As more people catch on to its charm, Boise is set to become a must-visit destination.
3. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga has transformed from an industrial hub into one of the South’s coolest adventure towns, Robin Smith shared in the Chattanooga Chronicle. Nestled between mountains and the Tennessee River, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise with hiking, rock climbing, and white-water rafting. The city’s revitalized downtown features the scenic Riverwalk, the stunning Tennessee Aquarium, and a booming craft beer scene. With a free electric shuttle system, it’s also one of the most accessible cities to explore on foot.
What really sets Chattanooga apart is its innovative spirit, earning it the nickname “Gig City” for having some of the fastest internet in the country. This has drawn a wave of entrepreneurs and remote workers, giving the city a fresh, youthful energy. The historic Chattanooga Choo Choo hotel, once a train station, has been reimagined with trendy restaurants and live music. With so much to offer, it’s only a matter of time before Chattanooga becomes the South’s next big thing.
4. Grand Rapids, Michigan
Long overshadowed by Detroit and Chicago, Grand Rapids is carving out its own identity as a cultural and culinary hotspot, according to Paula Gardner from Bridge Michigan. Known as “Beer City, USA,” it has more craft breweries per capita than almost anywhere else in the country. The city’s art scene is also booming, thanks to events like ArtPrize, one of the world’s largest public art competitions. Plus, its riverfront redevelopment projects are making it an even more attractive place to visit.
Beyond beer and art, Grand Rapids is a gateway to some of Michigan’s best outdoor adventures. Nearby Lake Michigan beaches offer stunning views and charming coastal towns like Saugatuck and Holland. Foodies will love the farm-to-table dining scene, with restaurants sourcing ingredients from the region’s rich farmland. As the Midwest’s best-kept secret, Grand Rapids won’t stay under the radar for much longer.
5. Greenville, South Carolina
Greenville has been quietly building a reputation as one of the most charming small cities in the South, according to Lyn Riddle’s article in The State. Its revitalized downtown is centered around Falls Park on the Reedy, where a scenic suspension bridge overlooks a stunning waterfall. The city is packed with award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and boutique shops that make it a foodie’s dream. And with its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, outdoor adventure is never far away.
One of Greenville’s biggest draws is its welcoming, community-driven atmosphere. The Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile greenway, connects the city with nearby towns and is perfect for biking and walking. Events like the Euphoria food festival and Artisphere bring in visitors from all over, adding to the city’s growing buzz. If you’re looking for a destination that blends Southern hospitality with big-city energy, Greenville is the place to be.
6. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth’s stunning location on the shores of Lake Superior makes it one of the most picturesque towns in the Midwest. Once an industrial shipping hub, the city has reinvented itself as an outdoor and cultural destination. Canal Park is the heart of the action, where visitors can watch massive ships pass under the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. In the fall, the surrounding forests burst into vibrant colors, making it a prime leaf-peeping spot.
Adventure seekers will love the access to hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives along the North Shore. The city’s craft beer and coffee scenes are thriving, giving it a hip, youthful energy. Winter brings its own magic, with opportunities for ice climbing and dog sledding just outside the city. With more people discovering its charm, Duluth is on its way to becoming a four-season destination.
7. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City has long been a favorite summer getaway for Michiganders, but the rest of the country is finally catching on. This small lakeside city is known for its stunning beaches, rolling vineyards, and charming downtown packed with boutiques and cafés. The surrounding region produces some of the best wine in the Midwest, particularly Rieslings and Pinot Noirs. And every summer, the National Cherry Festival draws visitors who come for the famous cherry pie and vibrant parades.
What makes Traverse City special is that it’s not just a summer destination—it’s beautiful year-round. In the fall, the changing leaves make for a perfect wine-tasting backdrop, while winter brings skiing and cozy cabin getaways. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, just a short drive away, offers breathtaking views and epic hiking trails. As more travelers look for alternatives to crowded coastal beach towns, Traverse City is becoming an increasingly popular pick.
8. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe has always been a cultural gem, but lately, it’s been attracting a new wave of visitors looking for a unique mix of history, art, and outdoor adventure. As the oldest capital city in the U.S., it’s filled with historic adobe buildings, stunning Spanish churches, and a vibrant Native American heritage. The art scene is world-class, with everything from the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum to the immersive, mind-bending installations at Meow Wolf. Plus, the food scene—especially the legendary green chile—makes every meal an experience.
Beyond the city, the surrounding desert landscape is a dream for hikers and photographers. Places like Bandelier National Monument and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains offer jaw-dropping scenery without the crowds of other national parks. The city’s laid-back vibe, wellness retreats, and natural hot springs make it an ideal place to relax and recharge. As more people seek out destinations that offer both culture and nature, Santa Fe is poised for a tourism boom.
9. St. Augustine, Florida
While Florida’s big-name beach towns steal the spotlight, St. Augustine quietly remains one of the state’s most fascinating and beautiful destinations. As the oldest city in the U.S., it’s packed with Spanish colonial history, cobblestone streets, and stunning waterfront views. The Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress, is one of the most unique historical sites in the country. And unlike the more touristy parts of Florida, it maintains a charming, laid-back feel.
Beyond the history, St. Augustine boasts some incredible beaches that are far less crowded than those in Miami or Orlando. The city’s food and drink scene is thriving, with local seafood, craft distilleries, and a growing number of breweries. With its blend of history, nature, and a slower pace of life, St. Augustine is becoming an increasingly popular choice for travelers looking to escape the Florida crowds. As more people seek out charming, walkable destinations, St. Augustine is sure to explode in popularity.
10. Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish is the kind of small town that feels like it belongs in a postcard, with its snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and cozy main street. Just outside Glacier National Park, it offers some of the best hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing in the country. The town itself is filled with rustic lodges, farm-to-table restaurants, and a surprisingly lively arts and music scene. While it’s been a well-kept secret for years, its proximity to Glacier means more travelers are starting to take notice.
In the winter, Whitefish transforms into a world-class ski destination, offering powdery slopes without the overwhelming crowds of Colorado or Utah resorts. Summer is equally stunning, with endless opportunities for hiking, fly fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. The nearby Flathead Lake is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering serene views and crystal-clear water. With remote work making mountain towns more popular than ever, Whitefish is on the verge of a tourism explosion.
11. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Tucked away in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is one of the most unique small towns in America. Its winding streets, Victorian architecture, and natural springs make it feel like a hidden European village. The entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places, with quirky shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés around every corner. This charming town has long been popular with artists and free spirits, and now, more travelers are starting to take notice.
Eureka Springs is also known for its stunning natural surroundings, with hiking trails, caves, and scenic overlooks just minutes away. The nearby Thorncrown Chapel, a breathtaking glass church in the woods, is a must-see for architecture lovers. Every year, the town hosts unique events like the UFO Conference and the Ozark Mountain Music Festival, adding to its quirky charm. As people search for offbeat, picturesque destinations, Eureka Springs is about to have its moment.
12. Marfa, Texas
Marfa has been a favorite among artists and creatives for years, but it’s now making its way onto the radar of mainstream travelers. This tiny desert town in West Texas is famous for its minimalist art installations, including the mysterious Prada Marfa sculpture and the Donald Judd Foundation. The vast, open landscapes create an almost surreal backdrop, perfect for stargazing and photography. The unexplained Marfa Lights, a local phenomenon, only add to the town’s mystique.
Despite its remote location, Marfa has a surprisingly hip food and lodging scene. Boutique hotels, modern ranch-style stays, and stylish coffee shops make it feel like a hidden gem straight out of a design magazine. The town’s artsy, unconventional vibe has been attracting more visitors each year, especially those looking for something different from the usual Texas experience. With more festivals and creative spaces popping up, Marfa is on the verge of becoming a must-visit destination.
13. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth might be small, but it’s packed with charm, history, and a fantastic food scene. As one of the oldest towns in America, it’s filled with well-preserved colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful waterfront views. The town’s indie shops, craft breweries, and cozy cafés make it feel like a New England version of Charleston or Savannah. And with its proximity to both the ocean and the White Mountains, it offers the best of both worlds for travelers.
The culinary scene in Portsmouth is seriously underrated, with some of the best seafood on the East Coast and a growing number of farm-to-table restaurants. Its historic seaport vibes, combined with a younger, creative energy, make it one of New England’s coolest small cities. Visitors can explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, take a boat tour along the harbor, or just soak up the charming atmosphere. As Boston and Portland become more crowded, Portsmouth is quickly becoming the next big thing in New England travel.
