News Summary
A new reader’s choice poll invites citizens to vote for the best historical small towns in the U.S. Voting is open until August 14, with winners announced on August 21. The initiative highlights towns with rich history and well-preserved architecture, encouraging the exploration of America’s charm. Notable nominations include Beaufort, Castine, and Gettysburg, each with unique attractions that reflect their historical significance. Participants can vote daily in various categories, helping to promote community appreciation for these vibrant locations.
America’s Historical Small Towns Poll Opens for Voting – A new reader’s choice poll is underway, inviting citizens to vote for the best historical small towns across the United States. The voting period is open until August 14 at noon ET, with winners to be announced on August 21. The poll has garnered attention for its focus on towns that embody rich history and preserved architecture.
This initiative aims to highlight America’s charming small towns, which feature pedestrian-friendly roads, well-preserved Victorian homes, and captivating Colonial-era taverns. Participants can vote daily in various categories, with nominees handpicked by travel experts and finalized by editors.
Notable Nominations
Among the 16 nominated towns, each one has its unique history and attractions that draw visitors. For instance, Beaufort, North Carolina, is recognized for its historic district established by the Spanish in the 1500s. This town is marked by towering palm trees, moss-covered oaks, and antebellum architecture preserved due to its protection during the Civil War.
Castine, Maine, noted for its historical significance as one of the oldest communities in the U.S., showcases 18th and 19th-century Georgian and Federal houses that reflect the influences of French, Dutch, and English settlers.
Cooperstown, New York, is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts. It is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum, alongside the historic Hyde Hall and a picturesque covered bridge.
Deadwood, South Dakota, became a thriving boomtown in 1876 amid the Black Hills gold rush. The town brings its Wild West history to life through reenactments held on its cobblestone streets.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas, captivates visitors with its renowned Victorian architecture and 50 landmark springs, creating a charming mountain village atmosphere.
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is historically significant for its critical role in the Civil War, featuring sites like the Jennie Wade House and the Dobbin House Tavern, which tell the story of the town’s past.
Jerome, Arizona, known as the Wickedest Town in the West, offers ghost tours that explore its mining history, alongside a flourishing local art scene.
Leadville, Colorado, emerged as a mining town in the 1860s and is famous for its silver discovery, showcasing its history at the National Mining Museum.
Additional Historical Towns
Mackinac Island, Michigan, provides a unique experience where visitors can explore by bike or horse-drawn carriage and admire stunning Victorian cottages and historic forts.
Marietta, Ohio, founded in 1788, holds the title of the oldest town in the state, originally inhabited by ancient Native American tribes.
Shepherdstown, West Virginia, boasts over 50 historic landmarks and played a vital role during the Civil War, functioning as a hospital for Confederate soldiers.
Solvang, California, showcases traditional Danish architecture, inviting visitors to indulge in local bakeries that offer authentic specialties.
St. Augustine, Florida, recognized as America’s oldest city, features the Castillo de San Marcos and many historic downtown landmarks that tell the city’s storied past.
Taos, New Mexico, home to the UNESCO-designated Taos Pueblo, celebrates nearly 1,000 years of history alongside a vibrant arts scene that draws countless visitors.
Vicksburg, Mississippi, served as a crucial Civil War hub and features the Old Depot Museum alongside numerous historic homes, allowing visitors to delve into the city’s rich heritage.
How to Participate
Voting in the poll allows individuals to appreciate and acknowledge the unique stories these historical small towns tell. The use of everyday language in this community-focused campaign aims to inspire readers to explore these vibrant locations filled with history and charm. Voters can support their favorite towns once per day until the deadline.
By taking part in this event, the community fosters a deeper appreciation for America’s historical sites, encouraging exploration and engagement with local heritage.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Discover Tranquil Towns for a Perfect Summer Getaway in South Carolina
Enchanting Escapes in South Carolina Towns for Families
Beaufort Kicks Off 69th Annual Water Festival Amid Safety Measures
Fourth-Generation Farmer Promotes Gullah Culture in South Carolina
Hilton Head Island’s Revolutionary War Legacy Uncovered
Tragic Boating Accident in Beaufort County
Beaufort, North Carolina: A Historic Coastal Treasure
Discover Unique Vacation Experiences in South Carolina’s Small Towns
Discovering Hidden Gems: South Carolina’s Unique Towns
Beaufort Hosts Original Gullah Festival Over Memorial Day Weekend
Additional Resources
- Natchez Democrat: Natchez is Booming Tourism
- Newsweek: Best Historical Small Town – 2025
- USA Today: Best Historic Small Town
- Visit Pennsylvania: Historic Towns
- Travel and Leisure: Small Towns in Virginia
- Wikipedia: Small Town
- Google Search: Historic Small Towns in the USA
- Google Scholar: Historic Small Towns
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Town
- Google News: America’s Historical Small Towns
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
