Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce

There are some things that are universally aww-inducing.

For many Southerners, one less-expected thing often lands on the coveted cute list: small towns.

But not all small towns are built the same.

Downtown road with flowers

Credit:Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce

To be a truly adorable small town, several boxes must be checked.

A walkable and charming main street or downtown are requirements.

An old-fashioned ice cream parlor or candy shop is a nice touch.

The restored Appalachian Theatre in downtown Boone.

The restored Appalachian Theatre in downtown Boone.Credit:Cameron Reynolds

And finally, excellent community and friendly locals are a must.

On weekends, free dance or yoga classes are held in the same place.

Retro, family-owned stays replace mega high-rise condos.

Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

Credit:Robbie Caponetto

St. Michaels, Maryland

Theres no place like this coastal charmer on Marylands scenic Eastern Shore.

Businesses along South Talbot Street likeOlde Town Candy CompanyandThe Shops at Sea Captains Cottageare must visits.

The idyllic beachfront community seems to exist in a bubble where only happiness and joy can survive.

Ellijay, GA

Credit: rodclementphotography / Getty Images

Its down-coast neighbor Beaufort, however, is more than deserving of the descriptor.

Beauforts Waterfront Park is positively dreamy.

Its historic homes along Craven Street are dripping with romantic nostalgia.

The Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond in St. Michaels, Maryland

Credit: Deborah Jaffe

And downtown businesses likeLowcountry Produceprovide the perfect place for an aesthetically pleasing cafe lunch or morning pastry.

Hike to the sparkling blue Hamilton Pool with its 50-foot waterfall.

Need a minute to stop and smell the roses?

Bud & Alley’s in Seaside, Florida

Credit: Bud & Alley’s in Seaside, photo: Mooncreek Studios

There are hand-painted rocking chairs situated all over town that are perfect for exactly that.

Rent a bike and pedal through the historic neighborhoods or along the gorgeous coast.

Visit places likeOpies Candy Store,Snappy Lunch, andWalker Soda Fountainfor a heavy hit of nostalgia.

beaufort sc

Credit: Beaufort Convention and Visitors Bureau

Oxford, Mississippi

If you want to discover the heart of Oxford, head to the Square.

One of the best ways to get acquainted with the town is to take the Eureka Springs Tram Tour.

Begin your days chasing waterfalls, hiking to excellent view points, and plunging into secret watering holes.

Waterfall at Hamilton pool preserve in Dripping Springs,Texas

Credit: WIN-Initiative / Getty Images

Perched in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is just 15 miles East of Asheville, making it an ideal day trip for anyone looking for their new favorite small town.

Credit: Black Mountain Chamber of Commerce

You Can Take a “Mayberry” Tour in a Squad Car in Mount Airy, North Carolina

Square Books in Oxford, MS

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Eureka Springs Tram

Credit:Courtesy of the Eureka Springs City Advertising & Promotion Commission

Brevard Music Center

Credit:Peter Frank Edwards

The Martha Washington Inn & Spa (Abingdon, Virginia)