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These small, riverside communities are tucked away away from the hustle and bustle ofbooming citiesand former day jobs.
Their riverbanks offer sweeping water views, peaceful sunrises and sunsets, and plenty of critter-watching.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Not to mention, they maintain incredible restaurants and cultural experiences.
Add water-adjacent hobbies like fishing, and youre left with the ideal recipe for arestful retirement.
Here are some of thebest townsin the South to retire by the river.
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Theres Cades Cove, a picturesque valley complete with ample wildlife and historic structures.
Its also just a hop, skip, and jump from quirkyGatlinburg.
The Little River runs through town and is great for tubing, fishing, or just enjoying its flow.
Credit: Robbie Caponetto
After a long day on the river, head to dinner at to one ofSandy Springs100 independent restaurants.
Bradenton, Florida
Chris Stein/Getty
Bradenton is situated alongside the Manatee River, south of Tampa.
As the name implies, this area is known for its manatee population.
Credit:Visit Sandy Springs
In fact, at theBishop Museum of Science and Nature, yogis can even practicemanatee yoga.
Its charming downtown is filled with shops and restaurants.
Each year, the river draws tubers, kayakers, and fishermen to its pools.
Credit:Chris Stein/Getty
Anglers will especially enjoy the ample trout fishing in this area.
Here, giant oak trees line streets and camellias blossom throughout winter.
These two communities are situated along the banks of the Ouachita River and Bayou DeSiard.
Credit:Fanin County Chamber of Commerce
With a population of fewer than 3,000, Camden is among the smaller towns on our list.
This is an ideal place for those looking to truly escape.
Multiple boat ramps, restaurants, and the countys annual tour of homes gives retirees plenty to do.
Credit:Visit Goldsboro
The town is found along the banks of the Rappahannock River.
The historic district offers 65 historic buildings including one of Virginias eleven surviving Colonial courthouses.
This close-knit community gives residents loads to explore and ways to get involved.
Credit:Alpine Helen Hite County Convention and Visitors Bureau
Its location allows for active watersports and leisurely fishing surrounded by breathtaking greenery.
Add to that hip eateries and independent shops, and youre left with a delightful retirement destination.
The gorgeous confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers only further adds to this citys charm.
Credit:Nicole Letts
People once flocked to the area to be healed by the natural springs.
Today, its an eclectic town that offers everything from outdoor activities to unique shopping.
Credit:Ryan Musick
Credit:Nicole Letts
Credit:Virginia Tourism Corporation
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Credit:MikeSoto
Credit: Getty Images/JT Crawford
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Credit:Courtesy of the Eureka Springs City Advertising & Promotion Commission
