15. Iowa: Grinnell
Grinnell combines midwestern ethos with college-town progressiveness. Its downtown is highly walkable. The Louis Sullivan Jewel Box Bank is a national historic landmark designed by the “father of the skyscraper.” It’s now Grinnell’s visitor’s center. Whether sipping Chardonnay at a wine bar or eating at the counter in a diner, the crowds look the same. Stay at the Hotel Grinnell.
16. Kansas: Humboldt
This sleepy rural town of barely over 1,800 people has been revitalized. A destination for campers, they flock to Base Camp, a full-service campground with instant access to the Prairie Spirit Trail. Downtown has exploded with big-city-style restaurants. Humboldt is now acclaimed for places such as Honeybee Bruncherie and its famed interior, as well as its candy shop, Bijou Confectionary.
17. Kentucky: Bardstown
Billing itself as the bourbon capital of the world, it’s home to Maker’s Mark, the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, and Bardstown Bourbon Company. Beyond distillery tours, the main drag along Highway 150 reflects the old South. You’ll find restaurants, as well as bars with an almost overwhelming selection of whiskey, and some of the best spirits in the world.
18. Louisiana: Slidell
Slidell rests along Lake Pontchartrain’s North Shore and is less than 45 minutes from the French Quarter. It’s home to one of the largest antiques districts in the state, with fairs twice annually drawing thousands. Downtown features art galleries, antique shops, and more. Try the Honey Island Swamp Tour to see the alligators and animals that call the Bayou home.
19. Maine: Bar Harbor
This seaside haven has a look and feel nearly identical to the fictional Cabot Cove of the TV series Murder, She Wrote. The warmer seasons offer a variety of things to do such as sailing, fishing, fresh seafood joints, ice cream shops, and visiting quaint family-run stores. It’s also the gateway to Acadia National Park.
