The USA's biggest cities are packed with energy and attractions, but to really get to know America, you need to make time for its smaller towns too. In every state, there are overlooked places, from chilled-out spots with an Old West spirit to chic villages packed with galleries and boutiques. Here, we've chosen our favorite underrated towns that you should put on your must-visit list.

Blink and you'll miss the teensy town of Mentone, which is perched at the top of Lookout Mountain, in northeastern Alabama. It's thoroughly geared up for tourists with rustic mountain cabins (pictured), a handful of laid-back dining options and the Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort, tipped as the USA's southernmost winter sports hub. A highlight of the year is the Mentone Colorfest, a fall celebration of arts, crafts and music in the mountain bolthole.

Alaska is fringed with cute waterside towns and Petersburg, which often flies under the radar, is one of them. It spreads out along the Frederick Sound, on Mitkof Island, and serves as a gateway to some of Alaska's incredible wilderness, including the glacier-filled Stikine-LeConte Wilderness Area. Back in town, local artists have covered storefronts with murals and peppered the streets with sculptures of bears and fishermen.

Carefree is a suitable name for this palm-studded, pocket-sized town folded away in the Sonoran Desert. Things move at a slow pace here, where highlights include the Desert Gardens, packed with cacti and yucca. The town is also proud of its glistening downtown sundial, the largest in the USA. Beyond that, locals and visitors alike spend hot summer nights listening to live music at the alfresco Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion.

You'll want to linger in Jasper's quaint downtown area, which has all-American spots like Ozark Cafe – a 100-year-old restaurant serving classic comfort food – as well as an elegant courthouse. But the great outdoors will be calling too. This Ozark Mountains town is perfectly placed for hiking, biking and canoeing – strike out on Arkansas Scenic Byway 7 for some epic views.

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Neat-as-a-pin beach towns abound in California and many are as famous as they are beautiful (we're looking at you, Carmel-by-the-Sea). Miraculously, Avila Beach, along California's Central Coast, has stayed a relative secret, overshadowed by the likes of Morro Bay. The town has a lot going for it: the charming promenade along Front Street is packed out with bistros and boutiques, and a handful of inns look over the ocean. It's a top spot for golfers too, with the swish Avila Beach Golf Resort.

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Paonia is one of the Centennial State's best-kept secrets. You'll enjoy a bounty of local produce here: the town sits in a region rich in cideries, wineries and farms offering tours and tastings. One of the best is Azura Cellars, a winery that doubles as an art gallery. Back in town, the colorful Creative District features mural-splashed galleries, artists' studios and boutiques, plus a historic cinema.

If you've heard of Greenwich, Connecticut, it might be because it's one of the richest towns in the States. The coastal bolthole is a magnet for hedge funds and big finance companies and its affluent shores have served as a home to high-profile figures from actress Jane Fonda to 43rd US president George Bush. Visitors will enjoy gazing up at the stately City Hall, wandering the trails and sandy beaches of Greenwich Point Park and poring over art and natural history exhibits at the Bruce Museum.

There are plenty of lively little towns along the Delaware coastline and cheerful Bethany Beach is often overlooked. It's in the south of the state, not far from the better-known destinations of Dewey Beach and Rehoboth Beach, and it's well worth a stop. Its sweep of Champagne-colored sand is the main draw, but family-friendly attractions like pirate-themed golf, surf shops and candy stores, plus a handful of chilled-out seafood restaurants, keep visitors satisfied too.

Slow down and smell the salt air in Seaside, a charming small town on the Florida Panhandle that leans into the Gulf Coast. A series of striking beachside pavilions characterize the town, which is also loved for its snow-white, cabana-dotted strands, its colorful houses and its cool record and bookstores. If you happen to recognize it, it might be because it served as the backdrop for 1998 Jim Carey movie The Truman Show.

People typically come to the southeastern Georgia town of Darien for two things: a generous helping of seafood and a slower pace. The little port town unfolds along the Altamaha River, on the coast, and is known for its thriving fishing industry (here shrimp boats rest in the docks at dusk). The fruits of the sea are turned out in Darien's restaurants and the many, tree-shaded squares are a perfect place to relax. Boat tours are a popular activity too.

From sleepy beach boltholes to forest-clad idylls, Hawaii's small towns are a joy to discover but Hawi, in Big Island's north, is often skipped over. Once the center of the region's now collapsed sugar industry, the town's modern drawcard is its laid-back, artsy vibe. There are a surprising number of craft shops and galleries packed into its small quarters, and it's also a jumping-off point for exploring the northern coast's lush countryside.

In this rustic mountain town, evidence of a historic mining, ranching and lumbering industry still lingers. In its immediate outskirts, you'll spot decrepit barns and Gold Rush-era buildings like this one pictured, framed by the Salmon River Mountains. But these days, the town's top draws are artsy attractions and outdoor pursuits – hop between little galleries then strike out for rafting, hiking and biking adventures. The Blues and Brews Fest is an annual highlight too.

Arcola is just a 1.5-hour drive east of Illinois capital Springfield, but it's worlds away. The big city buzz is replaced with a dreamy, small-town vibe and the place is a gateway to Amish country. You can pick up Amish-made crafts at shops in town, and you should also make time to stop by the Hippie Memorial. A giant shrine to hippy culture, this artwork by free-spirited railroad worker Bob Moomaw is made from found materials. Main Street is stuffed with striking 19th-century buildings like this one pictured too. 

No, not that Nashville. Southern Indiana's Nashville is much smaller than Tennessee's Music City, but a quirky, creative heart is something they both have in common. The town punches above its weight when it comes to treasure-filled antiques stores, live music spots and funky art galleries. There are also plenty of quaint little restaurants for pizza, Mexican food and all-American comfort food.

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The Midwest is scattered with Danish towns and villages and Elk Horn is one of the finest. It's got a teensy population of fewer than 1,000 people, but it packs a punch with its charming windmill (you can take a tour of the working mill which dates back to 1848) and the fascinating Museum of Danish America, which chronicles the story of Danish immigration to America. Also look out for Bedstemor’s House, a charming early Danish home that's been faithfully restored.

This little town defies expectations with its quirky art installations and free spirit. You'll find it in southwestern Kansas, right on Highway 400, and its top-drawer sight is the M.T. Liggett Art Environment (pictured). This avant-garde outsider art display is made up of totems and whirligigs wrought from found materials.

You'll be thoroughly charmed by downtown Midway which is packed with colorful storefronts and art galleries, plus American grills, cute cafés and inns. It was originally a booming railroad town and tracks, used by freight trains, still route through the quaint place. It's also home to one of the region's top wineries – Equus Run Vineyards – and Bluegrass Railroad Museum, which tells of the area's railroading history.

Abita Springs, just 45 miles (72km) from New Orleans, across Lake Pontchartrain, packs plenty of quirks into a small space. It's a beer-lover's haven, known for beloved Abita Brewery, alongside other top taphouses and brewpubs. Beyond a charming Main Street, another top attraction is the Abita Springs Opry – this series of live music concerts takes place throughout the year and centers on country and bluegrass.

Maine isn't short of coastal idylls and little Stonington is well worth a visit. A bridge links the town, at the southern tip of Deer Isle, to the mainland, but you'll find it hard to tear yourself away. It's a creative spot, packed with artists' studios and dinky galleries, and there's an opera house for live music and theatre too. Foodies will be satisfied – Maine lobster is a staple here and you can eat it while looking over the bay.

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This tiny Maryland spot dubs itself "America's coolest small town – artistically alive, eternally young". And it's got plenty of cool credentials to back up such a bold claim. The arts scene is fizzing, with an Arts and Entertainment District packed tight with indie music venues, galleries and studios. Another fun stop is the Mermaid Museum. Exactly what it sounds like, this curious museum brings these fantastical creatures of the deep to life.

A perfectly formed town on the peninsula of Cape Cod, Wellfleet is often overlooked in favor of more famous places such as Provincetown and Nantucket. That's a crying shame, though, as the town is awash with wonders, such as Uncle Tim's Bridge (pictured) which juts over marshland and connects to some scenic hiking trails. Once you've ventured into the outdoors, come back for a seafood feast by the water and a nose around the Wellfleet Flea Market – check for running times.

A castle is the crown jewel of this teensy city in Michigan. Curwood Castle broods over the Shiawassee River, with towers, turrets and all, and was once author James Oliver Curwood's writing studio. After you've gazed up at this fairy-tale fort, move on to the Steam Railroading Institute for your history fix or take to the River Walk for a wander or a cycle.

It's a true travel crime that quaint Lanesboro is so often overlooked. Combining nature and history, it's situated in the Root River Valley and filled with top-notch attractions. The Lanesboro History Museum is a good place to start, or History Alive! tours retell the town's history through interactive performances. Lanesboro Art Gallery is another winner, while the Root River State Trail spools out from town, following old railroad tracks and striking into fields and forests.

Rising over the Missouri River, Hermann was settled by German immigrants in 1837 and this heritage still runs deep. A hodge-podge of elegant, red-brick buildings make up the town, which is filled with museums – there's the fascinating City of Hermann Caboose Museum or the Deutschheim State Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into 19th-century life here. Best of all, though, this is wine country and historic wineries offer tours and tastings.

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Bay St. Louis is a Gulf Coast charmer. The top reason to stay is the powder-white beaches, but the coastal spot has other treasures too. The historic Mission-style train depot (pictured) turns the heads of architecture buffs, while the cool Mardi Gras Museum is filled to the rafters with elaborate, colorful costumes and props. You'll get a mighty dose of Southern hospitality at the laid-back restaurants too.

This underrated Montana town has the stirring spirit of the Old West and serves as a gateway to epic Yellowstone National Park. It's painted against the jagged Beartooth Mountains and in winter the region offers some fantastic skiing. Come summer, Red Lodge is a base for hikers and bikers, who return to town to listen to live music in a saloon, grab dinner at a steakhouse or enjoy beer in a rustic taproom.

Red Cloud is a small Nebraskan town with a fascinating literary heritage. It was the childhood home of Willa Cather, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of One of Ours, among other successful novels. Today, the house is restored and still contains precious relics from the family. Downtown, you'll stumble upon bookstores and antiques shops, plus cute guesthouses and swish restaurants and bars.

Not to be confused with the Texan capital, Austin, Nevada is a secret worth sharing. Historically, this was a frontier city and the Old West-style Main Street has been spruced up, its buildings filled with antiques stores, B&Bs and modern saloons. There's a funky, artsy vibe about the place. Be sure to stop by St. Augustine’s Catholic Church which now doubles as a cultural center, then strike out into the surrounding area in search of petroglyphs and pictographs.

Tipping itself as the newest town in New Hampshire (it was incorporated in the 1960s), prettily-named Sugar Hill is so small you might miss it. The population numbers in the 100s and its main draw is its bucolic location amid wildflower-filled meadows in the White Mountains. It's a foodie's delight, with a popular pancake parlor and a country store known for its cheese. But the top attraction is the spring Lupine Festival which draws tourists from all over the States.

Gloriously quaint, the main area of this small town has a distinctly European feel about it, with streets lined with little cafés. The town celebrates its French heritage with a big Bastille Day bash in summer and the outdoors is a pull all year-round. The town spreads out along the Delaware River and it's a popular place for cycling too.

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Even more like a village than a town, Madrid, in Santa Fe County, is an artists' enclave. It started off as a coal-mining settlement before becoming a veritable ghost town, but a creative community has given it a new lease of life. Hop between galleries filled with fine art, before stopping by a local tavern for an evening of bluegrass or rock music. The town's prize location in the Ortiz Mountains is beautiful too.

Tucked away in New York state's famous Finger Lakes region, colorful Skaneateles spreads out at the top of its gorgeous, namesake lake. There's a down-to-earth, family-friendly atmosphere about the town, whose main area is filled with smart boutiques, galleries and picture-perfect inns. Still, life revolves around the water so don't miss a boat ride or paddle session on the lake.

Blowing Rock, right off the Blue Ridge Parkway, is named for a striking rock formation that juts out in the mountains, offering far-reaching views of the town's bucolic surroundings. There are more stunning views in the town proper too, as Broyhill Park is a peaceful oasis perfect for a stroll. It's pictured here in fall, with its neat pavilion beside Mayview Lake. Wineries, farm experiences and some first-rate history and art museums are other reasons to stay a while.

It would be very easy indeed to miss Jud, a tiny town with just about 100 permanent residents. While there's little more than a handful of shops and a quaint old post office, it's a worthwhile stop for true art lovers. Passing through you'll spot a jumble of buildings brightened with street art, from bold floral patterns to farm scenes and forests.

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This little Ohio village has rather a lot going for it. First, its proximity to Lake Erie makes it a water-lover's paradise, with beaches right on the doorstep and the opportunity for boating and kayaking. But, most importantly, it's the birthplace of one of the world's most famous inventors, Thomas Edison. Today you can tour his former home and pore over examples of his early inventions, as well as personal family relics.

The aptly named Medicine Park is tipped as Oklahoma's first resort town: well-heeled travelers poured in during the early 1900s, attracted by the mountain scenery and the proposed healing qualities of Medicine Creek. Now swimming holes, plush inns and a bounty of nature still draw in visitors. The town is also known for its distinctive red cobblestones which make up streets and buildings.

Oregon has a jewel-studded coastline and Neskowin is one of its best-kept secrets. It's a tiny community, with a handful of funky cafés, a popular RV resort and golf course, and rugged shores that beg you to whip out your camera. The highlight is Neskowin Ghost Forest: here the scattered remains of an ancient sitka forest protrude from the sand, backed by tree-covered bluffs.

This is small-town America done by the book. As charming as they come, the little settlement in Lancaster County is filled with boutiques in historic buildings, family-run restaurants and compact museums plotting the town's history. A sure crowd-pleaser is the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery: here you can take an interactive tour and even roll your own pretzel.

Rhode Island's Newport County is packed with cute coastal towns and Little Compton is one of them. The town has a long history which is unraveled through changing exhibitions at the Little Compton Historical Society. It's a joy to spend some time by the water too: South Shore Beach is small but picturesque, and the colorful boats bobbing on the Sakonnet River make a great photo op.

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A dreamy, Lowcountry town, Bluffton serves up Southern charm and history in equal doses. In true Southern style, the streets are lined with graceful, 19th-century buildings and Spanish moss-draped trees, and there are many ways to unpick Bluffton's past. A poignant attraction is the Garvin-Garvey House (pictured), an 1870s home that was built by the formerly enslaved man. The buzzy farmers' market is worth a visit too.

While Hill City might be 'city' by name, it's certainly small town by nature. It's a tiny town in the heart of South Dakota's Black Hills region, meaning a visit puts you within striking distance of Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial and the wide-open landscapes of Custer State Park. The town has its fair share of attractions too, like the family-friendly State Railroad Museum plus plenty of low-key dining and lodging options.

Springing up just outside the charming small city of Franklin, Leiper's Fork is a buzzy little community awash with artists and musicians. An impressive number of art galleries are packed into its limits, alongside a chilled-out Southern restaurant-cum-music venue and quirky Airbnbs. A favorite spot is the Lawnchair Theatre (pictured), an alfresco stage built of cedar logs that hosts live music and movies.

The Lone Star State is enormous, so it's inevitable that even towns as lovely as this one are occasionally overlooked. The town brands itself as the 'Gateway to Hill Country' and, as its name suggests, it's a stone's throw from some wonderful watery attractions too. The best and most famous of them is the Hamilton Pool Preserve, a historic natural swimming hole. Back in town, sample the region's fine wines and catch a concert – there's live music here almost every night.

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Torrey is best-known as a gateway to Capitol Reef National Park, but it's got plenty of charms all of its own. Downtown, you're never far away from breathtaking vistas of red cliffs and its inky black nights have earned it an International Dark Sky Community designation. Charming historic building like the old Log Church and Schoolhouse make great photo stops, and there are plenty of places to soak up the sun on a patio while feasting on classic American bites and listening to live music.

Few states boast as many picturesque small towns as Vermont (from Stowe, with its famous whitewashed church, to charming Chester). Often overlooked is Grafton, a cute-as-a-button spot in the southeast of the state. The best way to explore is to slow down and enjoy the chilled-out pace, mooching around the quaint village store, catching exhibits at The Nature Museum and feasting on maple candy at Plummer’s Sugar House.

A glorious setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains make this Virginia town a must-visit from the start. From Abingdon, the Virginia Creeper Trail strikes out into the countryside, trailing an old railroad and offering stellar views, especially in fall. It's got plenty of appeal beyond nature too. The Barter Theatre, which tips itself as the nation's longest-running professional theatre, is a must, while the Arts Depot (in the historic train depot) is a base for working artists.

La Conner has become something of an artists' hot spot, not surprising given the cinematic views and sheer amount of natural beauty on offer here. The waterside town is picture-perfect and the wider county is known for its kaleidoscopic tulip fields, celebrated by the annual Tulip Festival. Big names like painter Guy Anderson once called La Conner home and you can get to grips with the local arts scene at the Museum of Northwest Art.

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A neat row of brightly painted and red-brick buildings announces your arrival on Market Street, the main artery of this quaint West Virginia town. Wander the road, ducking into little indie galleries, upmarket boutiques and sweet shops, then make for Lee Street Studios, an artists' collective that hosts events and exhibits. Several guided walking tours help you scratch beneath the town's surface too.

Egg Harbor – whose name is apparently a nod to a food fight between fur traders back in the 19th century – is a lovely pit stop on a drive through scenic Door County. The pretty marina looks best at sunset and the little beach is a hit with visitors too. Downtown, the bounty of local produce is put front and center in artisan bakeries, chic grocery stores and restaurants.

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Going back through the decades, Wyoming would have been filled with stirring one-horse towns and many still retain a feel of the Old West. That's true of Pinedale, which pitches itself as the 'Real Wyoming'. It's a perfect gateway to some of the state's finest wilderness, flanked as it is by the Wind River Mountain Range and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Back in town, there are ample places to fill up on hearty American food after a hike.

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