Travel + Leisure unveils its 2026 list of “America’s Best Small Towns,” highlighting lesser-visited destinations we want our readers to know about. Travel + Leisure launched America’s Best Small Towns three years ago to spotlight destinations with tiny populations, but big hearts and outsized attractions. As travelers continue to prioritize domestic getaways, we’ve also seen how small towns are a vital part of the nation’s fabric.
In order to qualify as one of America’s Best Small Towns, a town must be located in the United States and have a full-time population below 30,000 residents, according to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data. It must also excel in its category and offer a variety of activities, accommodations, and a timely reason to visit — be it a notable new festival, hotel, restaurant, attraction, or tourism initiative.
Winners:
Best Small Beach Town: Pismo Beach, California (pictured) Best Small Mountain Town: Hood River, Oregon Best Small Lake Town: Laconia, New Hampshire Best Small Desert Town: Ely, Nevada Best Small Arts + Culture Town: Frenchtown, New Jersey Best Small Food Town: Mystic, Connecticut Best Small Spa + Wellness Town: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico Best Small Retirement Town: Georgetown, South Carolina Best Small College Town: Oxford, Mississippi Best Small Sports Town: Kohler, Wisconsin
