The US is so much more than the commercial America we so often get to see on television, or worse even, the news. It’s also a land of natural contrast and rich cultures, and home to a varietal arrangement of people who don’t at all care for living inside a box labelled ‘socially acceptable’.
These are just some of America’s must-see cities and towns you’ve probably never heard of, but once experienced, you’ll never again forget for as long as you live.
Charlevoix, Michigan
Charlevoix is quintessentially small-town Michigan. Home to a magnificent legendary castle, the town features a stunning dramatic and spectacular red lighthouse, homes reminiscent of mushrooms growing wild and free, and, featuring a wonderfully cast selection of 25 varieties of beautiful purply Lavender, one of the largest Lavender Hill Farms in all of the US.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth is America’s very own little Germany. The town’s authentic Bavarian village-feel makes it an absolute gem of a must-visit during the annual Oktoberfest. Leavenworth is also a village-style shopping, outdoor hiking and wine tasting mecca and you’ll find plenty of cool games that are enjoyable for all ages too.
Bardstown, Kentucky
A must-visit for the whiskey-lover, Bardstown Kentucky is the undisputed bourbon capital of the world. Home to distilleries the likes of Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, Bardstown is often referred to as the “most beautiful small town in America”. The community is friendly and small, and all major attractions are located within but a short walk of downtown.
Whiskey-lover or no, the Historic District is a must-experience. Centred right at the heart of downtown Bardstown, the Historic District is home to the famous St. Joseph’s Basilica, which was of course the very first Catholic church established to the west of the Allegany mountains.
Pella, Iowa
Pella, Iowa may be the picture of quaint and at-peace, but the small town is once every year completely transformed as Pella prepares to host the annual Tulip Town Festival. And since the town’s culture is predominantly Dutch, the streets are during this time transformed into a scenario very much akin to the beautiful Netherlands form which it draws its inspiration.
Shelburne, Vermont
Located along the shores of awe-inspiring Lake Champlain, Shelburne is more a suburb than what it is a town or city. Shelburne is in fact a suburb of Burlington, which is of course Vermont’s largest city. The suburb itself lies approximately 7 miles south of Burlington’s inner-city center.
Shelburne is home to many a well-known attraction, including the famous Shelburne farmers’ market and of course, Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. The area is also home to numerous natural as well as man-made parks, including beautiful Davis Park on Harbor Road and the equally stunning Hullcrest Park on Pinehurst Drive.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs has got to be one of America’s best kept secrets as far as unique travel destinations go. Located in the very heart of the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs offers to the discerning globetrotter a true Victorian village experience. The village is also home to big-cat animal sanctuary, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.
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