HGTV lists Wisconsin city among 40 most charming small downtowns across America

Sep 21, 2025 | 10:49 AM

(NewsNation) — HGTV has released its list of the most charming small downtowns in America, showcasing various towns from across the country “that invite you in and encourage you to stay and explore.”

Many of the downtowns feature historic architecture, boutiques, festivals, amazing views and great food.

Some notable towns on the list include:

Athens, Georgia:

Athens, Georgia, Athens City Hall, restored historic building.

Athens, Georgia, Athens City Hall, restored historic building. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Located a little over an hour from Atlanta, Athens is a college town home to the University of Georgia. Athens is known for its vibrant Southern charm and music scene, being the hometown of iconic bands such as R.E.M. and The B-52s. The town also boasts an excellent selection of vintage clothing stores and beautifully restored Victorian-era buildings.

Kansas woman brought back to life … twice

Lewes, Delaware:

Quaint historic downtown area in Lewes, Delaware 2012/05/12

LEWES, DELAWARE, UNITED STATES – 2012/05/12: Quaint historic downtown area. (Photo by John Greim/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Lewes is a coastal town located on the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. The town features Cape Henlopen State Park, which has miles of bike trails and beaches. Over the summer, many take the popular ferry from Lewes to Cape May, New Jersey.

St. Michaels, Maryland:

Aerial view of small Chesapeake Bay fishing town, St. Michaels with houses and storefronts, Maryland

Aerial view of small Chesapeake Bay fishing town, St. Michaels with houses and storefronts, Maryland. (Photo by: Visions of America/Joseph Sohm/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

St. Michaels is a small coastal town located on the Chesapeake Bay that is a popular spot for visitors in the summer. It features stunning Victorian-era homes, a historic 19th-century seaport and many unique shopping options.

Student builds secret project brick by brick

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California:

Kris Kringle Christmas store and shopping arcade in Carmel, California, September 5, 2021

Kris Kringle Christmas store and shopping arcade in Carmel, California, September 5, 2021. Photo courtesy Sftm. (Photo by Gado/Getty Images)

Located about three hours south of San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea is a one-square-mile village on the central coast of California. The town is known for its quaint boutiques and award-winning dining options. During the holiday season, Carmel transforms into a festive destination, featuring twinkling lights adorning the buildings and beautiful window displays.

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia:

A view of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia July 5, 2005

HARPERS FERRY, WV – JULY 05: A view of Harpers Ferry, a town that witnessed the first successful application of interchangeable manufacture, the arrival of the first successful American railroad, John Brown’s attack on slavery, the largest surrender of federal troops during the Civil War, and the education of former slaves in one of the earliest integrated schools in the United States July 5, 2005 in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Harpers Ferry is a charming small town located in the easternmost point of West Virginia in the lower Shenandoah Valley, where Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia converge. The town has a rich history and features several stunning 19th-century buildings. Additionally, there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy.

Cancer patient says treatment gave him second chance at life