Big cities like New York and Los Angeles may get most of the attention, but America is filled with small towns and communities that have long formed the backbone of the nation. These towns are filled with their own history, museums and cultural attractions, but also come with the added appeal of home-spun charm and hometown heroes.
While millions spend big dollars to pack themselves like lemmings into big-city attractions, America's wonderful small towns offer a carefree getaway at a fraction of the cost.
Turning to the likes of U.S. News & World Report, Reader's Digest, Architectural Digest, The Travel Channel and House Beautiful magazine, here's a look at the best small towns across the U.S.
Population: 804
Incorporated in: 2006
Located along the Magnolia River, Magnolia Springs dates back to 1800 and is mere minutes from Mobile, Alabama. This isn't a suburb, however. No, this is a sleepy town of adorable houses and canopies of oak trees, azaleas, wisteria, dogwoods and, of course, magnolia trees.
Drive along its quiet streets and feel completely lost in an authentic Southern backdrop.
Where to stay: Magnolia Springs Cottage
Population: 8,689
Incorporated in: 1913
Originally a part of Russia until 1867, Sitka is the actual town where the official transfer of Alaskan land to the United States took place. Located near Juneau, the state capital, this waterfront beauty is a popular stop for cruise lines traveling the Inner Passage.
Though tiny, it packs in a diverse array of offerings, including a wine bar, a brewery and an independent bookstore.
Where to stay: Westmart Sitka
Population: 10,336
Founded in: 1902
You may hear of friends jetting off to Phoenix and Scottsdale to get their golf game on or to enjoy a warm winter, but Sedona, south of Flagstaff, is just as appealing.
Set against striking red-rock buttes, it features amazing hiking and the Coconino National Forest, which is much larger than the Sonoran Desert National Monument. Plus, it's nearer to the Grand Canyon than Arizona's more famous cities and touts a thriving artistic community.
U.S. News loves Sedona so much that it ranked it as one of the top five best small towns in the entire country.
Where to stay: Enchantment Resort