2 New York & New Jersey Locations Make Top 10 List of Coolest Small Towns in America

Budget Travel has announced that Beacon, New York, has been named this year’s “Coolest Small Town in America.” Sonoma, California, claimed the runner-up spot in the annual contest celebrating small town America. “Combining cultural diversity, cutting-edge cuisine, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit, these towns offer visitors a truly authentic small town experience,” says Editor in Chief Robert Firpo-Cappiello. “Beacon, in New York’s Hudson River Valley, exemplifies those core values, with an incredible array of artists and artisans, chefs, a world-class museum, Dia: Beacon, and a revitalized downtown.” Budget Travel’s Top 10 list of the Coolest Small Towns in America for 2018:

  1. Beacon, NY: A haven for artists, artisans, chefs, and environmentalists
  2. Sonoma, CA: A wine lover’s paradise
  3. Gatlinburg, TN: Gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  4. Durango, CO: For Southwest adventurers
  5. Ephraim, WI: The classic American lakeshore vacation
  6. Jackson Hole, WY: Outdoorsy fun in the Grand Tetons
  7. Eureka Springs, AR: A rich history and soothing natural beauty
  8. Sedona, AZ: For travelers seeking relaxation and enlightenment
  9. Ocean Springs, MS: The Gulf Coast’s foodie magnet
  10. Point Pleasant, NJ: An awesome beach and boardwalk with a family-friendly vibe

Budget Travel Announces America's Coolest Small Towns For 2018

Each year Budget Travel encourages its multi-platform audience to discover travel beyond the big cities and experience something different: America's Coolest Small Towns. "Combining cultural diversity, cutting-edge cuisine, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit, these towns offer visitors a truly authentic small town experience," says Editor in Chief Robert Firpo-Cappiello .