One of my favorite subjects is historical architecture. I love old homes, palaces, castles, small towns, etc. It’s not that the architecture is necessarily better but it’s the stories over the years that are wrapped up in the evolution of a structure or town. Any town I visit, if there’s time, I check out local historic buildings that offer tours. I’m a sucker for these. I know I’m not the only one because these tours would not exist without many people annually paying a few bucks to walk through a building. If historical architecture is your thing, here are 22 fabulous smaller towns to visit in America that offer a wealthyof history.
22. New Ulm, Minnesota
Founded in 1854 by German immigrants, New Ulm is a town that celebrates its rich German heritage through its well-preserved historical architecture. One of its standout landmarks is the Glockenspiel Tower, a 45-foot structure that features animated figurines depicting scenes from Bavarian history. Another important building is the Wanda Gág House, the childhood home of the famous children’s author and illustrator, built in 1894. The house showcases a blend of late Victorian and prairie-style architecture, reflecting the town’s evolution in the early 20th century. Turner Hall, founded in 1856, is the oldest Turner Hall in the U.S. and is a cultural hub for the German American community, featuring stunning murals and a grand ballroom. The Brown County Historical Society is housed in a 1910 Romanesque Revival-style former post office, preserving the area’s rich history and Germanic roots.
21. Milledgeville, Georgia
Once the capital of Georgia, Milledgeville is a town steeped in antebellum history and known for its impressive Greek Revival architecture. The Old Governor’s Mansion, built in 1839, is a stunning example of this style, with its stately columns and grand portico, and was home to Georgia’s governors until the capital moved to Atlanta. During the Civil War, the mansion was occupied by General William Sherman’s troops during his infamous March to the Sea. Another key structure is Atkinson Hall at Georgia College & State University, a Victorian Gothic building constructed in 1896, known for its imposing brick facade and intricate woodwork. The St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, built in 1841, is one of the oldest churches in Georgia and is an architectural gem with its simple, Gothic design. Milledgeville’s architectural heritage also includes numerous well-preserved homes from the early 19th century, such as the Lockerly Hall, a Greek Revival mansion built in 1852, which now serves as a public garden and event space.
20. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is known for its steep streets and Victorian buildings, a direct reflection of its founding as a health spa town in 1879. The Crescent Hotel, built in 1886, is a landmark of Queen Anne-style architecture, with its ornate detailing and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel has a storied history, including a period as a college for women and later as a hospital. Basin Park Hotel, another architectural gem, was built in 1905 in response to the town’s booming tourist industry. This limestone structure, designed to blend with the natural rock formations, offers an impressive display of early 20th-century architectural ingenuity. St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, perched high above the town, is an iconic Gothic Revival church completed in 1909 and is famous for its unique entrance via the bell tower. Eureka Springs is also home to numerous Victorian homes that line its hilly streets, giving the town its distinct, old-world charm.
19. Galena, Illinois
Once a booming lead mining town, Galena is now a living museum of 19th-century architecture, with more than 85% of the town designated as a historic district. One of its most famous residents was Ulysses S. Grant, whose Grant’s Home, built in 1860, is a simple yet elegant Italianate-style mansion, now a museum open to the public. The DeSoto House Hotel, established in 1855, is the oldest operating hotel in Illinois and has hosted several notable figures, including Abraham Lincoln. Its brick facade and iron balconies reflect the Italianate style, popular in the mid-19th century. Dowling House, built in 1826, is the oldest building in Galena and is a prime example of early American stone construction. The town also boasts numerous examples of Federal and Greek Revival homes, making it a favorite for architectural history buffs.
18. Staunton, Virginia
Staunton is renowned for its beautifully preserved Victorian and Federal-style architecture, and its historical significance as the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson. The town’s architectural crown jewel is the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, a faithful recreation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theater, making it a unique landmark in the U.S. Trinity Episcopal Church, completed in 1855, is another gem, featuring stunning stained glass windows created by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Mary Baldwin University, founded in 1842, is home to several historic buildings, including Main Hall, a grand structure that blends Greek Revival and Victorian styles. Staunton’s downtown area is also a designated historic district, where visitors can admire a variety of late 19th and early 20th-century commercial buildings, including the Beverley Street Historic District, which is lined with charming brick storefronts that have remained largely unchanged for over a century.
17. Bath, Maine
This quaint coastal town, known as the “City of Ships,” has a rich maritime history reflected in its beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. The Winter Street Church, built in 1843, is one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in the region, with its tall spires and intricate woodwork. Patten Free Library, constructed in 1890, is an elegant example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, featuring arched windows, a red brick facade, and a steeply pitched roof. Bath’s historic district is filled with beautifully maintained Greek Revival and Federal-style homes, many of which were built by ship captains and merchants during the town’s shipbuilding heyday. The Morse-Libby House, built in 1858, is a stately Italianate mansion that now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Bath’s wealthy shipbuilders.
16. Camden, South Carolina
Camden, the oldest inland city in South Carolina, is a treasure trove of colonial and antebellum architecture. The Kershaw-Cornwallis House, built in 1777, is one of the oldest surviving structures in Camden and played a significant role during the Revolutionary War when British General Lord Cornwallis used it as his headquarters. The Camden Revolutionary War Site includes several preserved buildings from this period, offering a window into the town’s early history. Historic Camden, a 107-acre living history site, also showcases Georgian-style buildings typical of the colonial period. Mulberry Plantation, built in 1820, is a stunning example of Federal-style architecture, with its symmetrical design and elegant columns. Camden’s Bethesda Presbyterian Church, completed in 1822, is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture and remains a focal point of the town’s historic landscape.
15. Bardstown, Kentucky
Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown is not only famous for its whiskey but also for its well-preserved historic architecture. The town’s most iconic building is Federal Hill, also known as My Old Kentucky Home, a grand Federal-style mansion built in 1795. The home is said to have inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” The Old Talbott Tavern, built in 1779, is one of the oldest western stagecoach stops still in operation and has hosted figures like Daniel Boone and Abraham Lincoln. Bardstown’s downtown area is a designated historic district, featuring a mix of Federal and Georgian-style buildings. St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral, completed in 1819, is one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the U.S. and showcases a blend of Federal and Greek Revival styles. The Spalding Hall, built in 1826, is another architectural gem that now houses the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History.
14. St. Augustine, Florida
Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental U.S., making it a haven for lovers of historical architecture. The Castillo de San Marcos, completed in 1695, is the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. and a prime example of Spanish colonial architecture, built to protect the city from pirates and invaders. Flagler College, housed in the former Ponce de León Hotel, is an exquisite example of Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture, designed by famed architects Carrère and Hastings in the late 19th century. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, originally completed in 1797, is a blend of Spanish Colonial and Renaissance Revival styles, reflecting the town’s deep Catholic roots. Villa Zorayda, built in 1883, is a unique Moorish Revival mansion that was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Spain. St. Augustine’s narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with colonial-era buildings, making it a living museum of American architectural history.
13. Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort, founded in 1711, is a picturesque coastal town known for its antebellum mansions and oak-lined streets. The John Mark Verdier House, built in 1804, is one of the finest examples of Federal-style architecture in the South and now operates as a museum showcasing Beaufort’s history. The Tabby Manse, constructed in 1786, is one of the few remaining tabby concrete houses, a material made from oyster shells, and reflects the town’s colonial-era building techniques. St. Helena’s Episcopal Church, established in 1712, is one of the oldest churches in the U.S. and a stunning example of Georgian architecture. The town’s Point Neighborhood is filled with beautifully preserved antebellum homes, including the Edgar Fripp House, also known as “Tidalholm,” which served as the setting for the films The Big Chill and The Great Santini. Beaufort’s historic district is a blend of architectural styles, from Federal and Georgian to Greek Revival and Gothic Revival, making it a haven for architecture lovers. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with each building telling a part of Beaufort’s rich history.
12. Lexington, Virginia
Lexington is a small town rich in American history, especially tied to the Civil War and two prominent figures—General Robert E. Lee and General Stonewall Jackson—both of whom are buried here. The town is filled with well-preserved examples of 19th-century architecture. Washington and Lee University features Lee Chapel, built in 1867, an exquisite example of Victorian architecture, where General Lee and his family are interred. The Stonewall Jackson House, a Greek Revival home built in 1801, was the general’s residence before the Civil War and now serves as a museum. Virginia Military Institute, established in 1839, is home to several Gothic Revival buildings that reflect its military legacy. The town itself is a charming blend of Federal and Victorian architecture, with quaint brick streets lined with 19th-century buildings. The Lexington Presbyterian Church, constructed in 1845, is another architectural highlight with its simple yet elegant Greek Revival design.
11. Middlebury, Vermont
Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Middlebury is a charming New England town known for its well-preserved Federal and Greek Revival architecture. Founded in 1761, the town’s centerpiece is Middlebury College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the United States, with its historic buildings such as Old Chapel, built in 1836 in the Greek Revival style, with a simple, grand facade and towering columns. The town is also home to the Congregational Church of Middlebury, completed in 1809, a striking example of Federal-style architecture with its tall white steeple and symmetrical design. The Henry Sheldon Museum, originally a Federal-style home built in 1829, is now the oldest community-based museum in the country, showcasing local history and culture. Middlebury’s Battell Bridge, built in 1893, is one of the oldest double-arched stone bridges in the state, adding to the town’s historic charm.
10. Natchitoches, Louisiana
As the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, Natchitoches offers a unique blend of French Creole architecture and Southern charm. Founded in 1714, this town is a treasure trove of historic buildings. The Cane River Creole National Historical Park preserves several 18th-century Creole plantations, including the Oakland Plantation, with its blend of French, Spanish, and African influences in architecture. The Lemee House, built in 1830, is a fine example of Creole-style architecture with its wrap-around galleries and symmetrical design. St. Augustine Catholic Church, established in 1803, is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the U.S. built for the African American community. The town’s historic district is filled with French Creole cottages, Federal-style homes, and antebellum mansions, making it a fascinating destination for architecture lovers. Front Street, lined with wrought-iron balconies and brick sidewalks, evokes the French Quarter in New Orleans and has been used as the backdrop for numerous films.
9. Annapolis, Maryland
Annapolis, the capital of Maryland and home to the United States Naval Academy, boasts an impressive collection of Colonial and Georgian architecture. Founded in 1649, Annapolis was once the temporary capital of the United States and is steeped in Revolutionary War history. The Maryland State House, completed in 1772, is the oldest state capitol in continuous legislative use, with its iconic wooden dome and Georgian design. St. Anne’s Church, founded in 1692, is a beautiful example of Colonial ecclesiastical architecture, with its classic brick construction and tall spire. The Hammond-Harwood House, built in 1774, is one of the finest examples of Colonial Georgian architecture in America, designed by renowned architect William Buckland. The William Paca House and Garden, built in 1765, is another Georgian masterpiece, once home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Annapolis’ downtown historic district is filled with well-preserved 18th-century homes and buildings, offering a glimpse into America’s early architectural legacy.
8. Williamsburg, Virginia
As a living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg is perhaps the most famous small town for lovers of historical architecture in America. Founded in 1632, Williamsburg was the capital of the Virginia Colony and played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. The Governor’s Palace, completed in 1722, is a stunning example of Georgian architecture, with its symmetrical design, grand entrance, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Bruton Parish Church, established in 1674, is one of the oldest Episcopal churches in America, featuring classic Colonial architecture with its brick facade and towering steeple. The Raleigh Tavern, built in 1717, was a key gathering place for revolutionaries and has been meticulously restored to its 18th-century appearance. The College of William & Mary, the second-oldest college in the U.S., is home to the Sir Christopher Wren Building, a blend of Colonial and English Baroque architecture. Walking through the streets of Williamsburg feels like stepping back in time, with each building telling a story of America’s founding.
7. Hudson, New York
Founded in 1785, Hudson is a small town with a big architectural heritage. Known for its well-preserved Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate buildings, Hudson’s architectural history reflects its past as a bustling whaling and trading port. The Dr. Oliver Bronson House, built in 1811 and remodeled in the 1830s by famed architect Alexander Jackson Davis, is a National Historic Landmark and one of the finest examples of Hudson River Bracketed architecture. The Hudson Opera House, built in 1855, is one of the oldest surviving theaters in New York and showcases Greek Revival elements with its imposing columns and symmetrical facade. Warren Street, the town’s main thoroughfare, is lined with 19th-century commercial and residential buildings, many of which have been restored to their original grandeur. Promenade Hill Park, with its sweeping views of the Hudson River, is one of the oldest public parks in the United States, adding to the town’s historic charm.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is often regarded as one of the most beautiful and historic cities in America, with its well-preserved antebellum mansions and cobblestone streets. Founded in 1670, Charleston is a showcase of Southern architecture, particularly in its historic district known as The Battery, where grand homes overlook the harbor. The Nathaniel Russell House, built in 1808, is a stunning example of Federal architecture, with its famous free-flying spiral staircase and detailed plasterwork. Drayton Hall, constructed in 1742, is one of the oldest and finest examples of Palladian architecture in America, standing as a rare survivor of the Civil War. The Aiken-Rhett House, built in 1820, is a well-preserved example of urban plantation life, featuring Greek Revival and Federal architectural elements. St. Michael’s Church, completed in 1761, is one of the oldest churches in the U.S., with its white steeple towering over the city, representing classic Colonial design.
5. Natchez, Mississippi
Natchez, founded in 1716, is home to some of the finest antebellum architecture in the United States, making it a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. The town boasts over 1,000 historic structures, many of which were built during its time as a wealthy cotton-trading hub before the Civil War. Longwood, constructed between 1859 and 1861, is the largest octagonal house in the U.S. and one of the most unique examples of antebellum architecture. It remains unfinished, as work was halted during the Civil War, but its grand size and intricate details reflect the wealth of the South during this period. Rosalie Mansion, built in 1823, is a classic example of Greek Revival architecture, with its sweeping portico and commanding views of the Mississippi River. Another notable building is Stanton Hall, a Greek Revival mansion built in 1857, known for its grandeur and opulent interiors. Natchez is also home to Auburn, built in 1812, which was the first mansion in Natchez to feature a fully realized portico with columns. Walking through Natchez’s historic district feels like a journey back to the antebellum South, where each building tells the story of the town’s rich and turbulent past.
4. Alexandria, Virginia
Located just outside Washington, D.C., Alexandria is a town steeped in early American history and boasts an incredible collection of well-preserved Colonial and Federal architecture. Founded in 1749, the town’s Old Town district is a National Historic Landmark, with cobblestone streets and over 200 restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings. One of the most significant structures is Gadsby’s Tavern, a Georgian-style building constructed in 1785 that served as a gathering place for American patriots, including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Carlyle House, built in 1753, is a stunning example of Georgian Palladian architecture and was the home of British merchant John Carlyle. Christ Church, completed in 1773, is where George Washington worshipped and is an exquisite example of Colonial ecclesiastical architecture. The Lyceum, built in 1839, is one of Alexandria’s finest examples of Greek Revival architecture and now serves as a museum dedicated to the city’s history. Alexandria’s proximity to the nation’s capital and its well-preserved buildings make it a fascinating destination for architecture enthusiasts.
3. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is famous for its opulent Gilded Age mansions, but its architectural history spans centuries, reflecting the town’s evolution from a colonial seaport to a summer playground for America’s elite. The Breakers, built in 1895 by the Vanderbilt family, is the crown jewel of Newport’s mansions, designed in the Italian Renaissance style with lavish interiors that reflect the excess of the Gilded Age. Another significant mansion is Marble House, constructed in 1892, which was inspired by the Petit Trianon at Versailles and is considered one of the most lavish examples of Beaux-Arts architecture in the U.S. However, Newport’s architectural history goes beyond these grand estates. Touro Synagogue, completed in 1763, is the oldest synagogue in the U.S. and a beautiful example of Colonial Georgian architecture. Trinity Church, built in 1726, is a classic wooden Georgian church and one of Newport’s oldest structures. Fort Adams, constructed between 1824 and 1857, is one of the largest coastal fortifications in the U.S., showcasing early 19th-century military architecture. Newport’s diverse architectural styles, from Colonial to Gilded Age grandeur, make it one of the richest architectural destinations in the country.
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is often hailed as one of America’s most historically significant cities, and its stunning array of architectural styles reflects its long and storied past. Founded in 1670, Charleston’s historic district is home to grand antebellum mansions, charming cobblestone streets, and beautifully preserved churches. The Nathaniel Russell House, built in 1808, is one of the finest examples of Federal architecture in the U.S., known for its elegant “free-flying” staircase and detailed plasterwork. Drayton Hall, constructed in 1742, is a rare example of Palladian architecture in the South and one of the oldest surviving plantation houses, having never been damaged during the Civil War. The Aiken-Rhett House, built in 1820, provides a unique glimpse into the life of Charleston’s elite, with its preserved Greek Revival and Federal architectural elements. St. Michael’s Church, completed in 1761, is the oldest surviving church in Charleston and is an iconic example of Colonial architecture, with its tall white steeple visible from across the city. The city’s Rainbow Row, a series of brightly colored Georgian row houses dating back to the mid-1700s, adds a vibrant touch to the city’s architectural palette. Charleston’s combination of Georgian, Federal, Greek Revival, and Palladian styles make it a living museum of American architecture.
1. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in the U.S., with its distinctive public squares and well-preserved array of Georgian, Federal, and Victorian architecture. Founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, Savannah’s Historic District is one of the largest in the U.S., filled with 18th- and 19th-century buildings that tell the story of its colonial past. The Owens-Thomas House, completed in 1819, is one of the finest examples of Regency architecture in the country, known for its curved walls, spiral staircase, and intricate ironwork. Forsyth Park, with its iconic fountain, is surrounded by grand Victorian homes, offering a glimpse into the city’s 19th-century expansion. The Mercer-Williams House, built in 1868, is a striking example of Italianate architecture and became famous as the setting for the book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, completed in 1896, is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, with its twin spires and stunning stained glass windows. Savannah’s distinctive combination of lush public spaces and grand architectural styles makes it one of the most picturesque and historically significant towns in America.
