Best Small Towns In America To Raise a Family

1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

As the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a classic family destination and one of the best small towns in the South. The town is an outdoor playground with hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting, and birding opportunities.

2. Beaufort, South Carolina

Close to Hilton Head Island, Beaufort is a hidden gem in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. With historic streets and natural beauty, this small town is perfect for family living or visits. Hunting Island State Park boasts uncrowded beaches

3. St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, a beach town on Florida’s northeast coast, was founded in 1565 and is known as the “Nation’s Oldest City.” It offers big-city attractions with a quaint small-town feel, popular with families. St. Augustine offers a variety of activities

4. Kelleys Island, Ohio

Kelleys Island in Lake Erie offers a delightful summertime getaway with beaches, forests, hiking and biking trails, a winery, mini golf, and the largest glacial grooves in the world. Families can rent a golf cart to explore the island's 4.5 square miles.

5. Frankenmuth, Michigan

Known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is a top family destination with its history and gingerbread-style buildings. The town is home to two indoor water parks, including one at Bavarian Inn Lodge, set to become Michigan’s largest indoor

6. Carbondale, Colorado

Located in the Rocky Mountains, about 30 miles from Aspen, Carbondale offers a range of outdoor activities including biking, hiking, fishing, and skiing. The town's annual Carbondale Mountain Fair highlights its art and music scene with food

7. Winona Lake, Indiana

Winona Lake is a hidden gem perfect for a Midwest road trip. Located under three hours from Indianapolis and Chicago, and 1.5 hours from Indiana Dunes State Park, this small town offers boating, biking, and hiking.

8. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Dells, known as “The Waterpark Capital of the World,” offers the largest collection of indoor and outdoor water parks globally, including the largest in the U.S. Families will enjoy multiple amusement parks.

9. Moab, Utah

Moab is a beautiful small town filled with family-friendly attractions. It has two national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, and the scenic Dead Horse Point State Park. Families can also enjoy the Moab Giants Dinosaur Park