Greeneville, Tennessee

Greeneville is a small town located in Greene County, Tennessee. If you’re looking for a town filled with history, Greeneville is a great place to visit. There are many historical sites to see, such as the David Crockett Birthplace State Park, where you’ll find a replica of David Crockett’s cabin. Greenville, Tennessee has consistently made several best small town lists, including “Best 100 Small Towns in America,” and “The 50 Best Small Southern Towns.”

Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin, Tennessee is another beautiful small town with loads of history to explore. Considering Franklin was an integral part of the Civil War, there are many historic sites and exhibits. Some of these sites include the Lotz House Museum, the Carter House, Carnton, and Downtown Franklin. Franklin has one of the most charming Main Streets in Tennessee with many restaurants and shops to explore.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

If you’re looking for a small mountain town to explore, check out Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Pigeon Forge is a great family-friendly vacation destination in the Smoky Mountains. Not only is this small town home to the famous Dollywood Theme Park, but there’s also a myriad of museums, gardens, and other attractions to see. In the quaint streets of Pigeon Forge, you’ll experience real Southern hospitality and beautiful mountain scenery.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is another beautiful mountain town that’s worth visiting during a trip to Tennessee. There are plenty of unique ways to explore the great outdoors on a trip to Gatlinburg. You can get around town easily on the Gatlinburg Trolley and there are three entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in town. Whether you visit the quaint Village Shops or spend the day at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, you’ll never run out of things to do in Gatlinburg.

Cookeville, Tennessee

Just an hour outside of Nashville, Tennessee, you’ll find the picturesque town of Cookeville. Whether you want to learn about the town’s history or find the best antique stores, there’s something for everyone in Cookeville. Part of experiencing this charming small town is experiencing the great outdoors. In Cookeville, you can go camping, kayaking, or visit some of the local state parks like Cummins Falls State Park.

Jonesborough, Tennessee

In East Tennessee, you’ll find the small town of Jonesborough. Often known as “Tennessee’s Oldest Town,” Jonesborough is also considered the Storytelling Capitol of the World. Every year in Jonesborough, you can visit the National Storytelling Festival and the town is also home to the International Storytelling Center.

Located a short distance from the Great Smoky Mountains, you can explore the streets of Jonesborough while stopping by many of the delicious restaurants, shops, and charming downtown buildings.

Townsend, Tennessee

If you’re looking for a laid-back small town to visit, try Townsend, Tennessee. This town is just outside the Great Smoky Mountains and is known as the “peaceful side” of the Smokies. It’s also the gateway to Cades Cove, a beautiful valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. When visiting Townsend, there are plenty of outdoor activities to engage in such as hiking, fishing, and golfing.

Dayton, Tennessee

Dayton, Tennessee is worth visiting no matter your hobbies, but this town is a delight for those who love to fish. Many fishing tournaments are held in Dayton because of its proximity to Chickamauga Lake. Even if you’re not a fishing fan, you can visit Swinging Bridge Park, the Rhea County Courthouse, or one of the numerous hiking and wilderness trails.

Nolensville, Tennessee

Nolensville is a small town in Williamson County, Tennessee. A visit to this town should include a stop at some of the antique shops, local boutiques, and the Amish Country Market. The Amish Market has many seasonal items throughout the year, including various gourds in the fall. Your trip to Nolensville also wouldn’t be complete without having a meal at Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, which is the original home of the award-winning Martin’s restaurant.

Morristown, Tennessee

In Hamblen County, Tennessee, you’ll find the charming town of Morristown. Morristown is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and parks. Some of the places worth visiting include the Briarwood Ranch Safari Park, Crockett Tavern Museum, and the Grovewood Baseball Museum. There are also plenty of ways to enjoy time outdoors at places like Panther Creek State Park or Cherokee Lake, which features 400 miles of shoreline for boating, kayaking, or fishing.

Granville, Tennessee

Located on the banks of the Cumberland River, Historic Granville Tennessee is known as “Tennessee’s Mayberry Town.” This small Tennessee town has been featured in Best Life, Southern Living, and Tennessee Home & Farm as one of the top small towns in the country.

The Sutton General Store is a must-see and was featured as one of the “Top 35 General Stores in the US” by Southern Living. You can also stop by the Mayberry I Love Lucy Museum, Pioneer Village, or the Granville Whiskey Decanter Museum.

Bell Buckle, Tennessee

In the town of Bell Buckle, Tennessee, you’ll find delicious restaurants, great music, and a variety of antique shops. One of the best parts about taking a stroll through town is viewing some of the beautiful historic buildings and Victorian homes.

Considering the size of the town, there’s no need to drive around since you can walk to any of the attractions in Bell Buckle. In addition to the many antique shops, there are also many local shops where you’ll find a variety of arts, crafts, cookware, and decor.

Paris, Tennessee

Many people dream of visiting Paris one day. Although Paris, Tennessee, isn’t the same as Paris, France, there is a replica of the Eiffel Tower in this quaint small town. Paris, Tennessee, has many historic structures to visit, including the Henry County Courthouse. This building is the oldest functioning courthouse in the state of Tennessee and was built in 1896. Downtown Paris also has many unique shops and beautiful architecture.

Columbia, Tennessee

Another small town just a short drive from Nashville is Columbia, Tennessee. Columbia has a quaint main street downtown that is filled with shops and restaurants. This town in Tennessee, also known as “Muletown,” is worth visiting no matter what your interests are.

While in Columbia, you can visit the downtown area, the Columbia Arts District, and many of the historic sites. Columbia, Tennessee has been named one of the top 10 best small towns in the country by Southern Living and numerous other publications.

Hohenwald, Tennessee

Hohenwald, Tennessee is located in Lewis County and is a beautiful place to visit, especially during the fall and holidays. In October, Hohenwald holds Oktoberfest festivities and in December, you can experience the excitement of Christmas in Hohenwald. On the first two weekends of December, there are trolley rides and carriage rides through town, which is fun for the whole family. You can also experience the beauty of Memorial Park decorated with lights.

Dandridge, Tennessee

Dandridge, Tennessee is known as “Tennessee’s Second Oldest Town.” With the warmth and hospitality of some of the best towns in the South, this town has a rich history and is only a short distance from cities like Gatlinburg and Knoxville. If you want to explore the history of Dandridge, you can take a walking tour through the historic downtown area.

Harriman, Tennessee

Like many of the small towns in Tennessee, Harriman is known for its historic buildings and charming downtown. This town has both the unique charm that comes with a historic area and the amenities that come with a more modern city.

From local restaurants and shops to outdoor recreation, there are plenty of things to do when visiting Harriman. If you want to explore the history of the town, you can visit the Cornstalk Heights Historic District, a historic neighborhood in Harriman.

Rogersville, Tennessee

When it comes to charming towns with picturesque main streets, Rogersville, Tennessee has it all. Main Street in Rogersville is charming with its red brick buildings and it has become a popular place to spend the day antique shopping. While in town, you can visit the Rogersville Printing Museum, Red Dog Ridge Farms, or one of the numerous art galleries.

Leipers Fork, Tennessee

Visiting Leipers Fork, Tennessee is a unique experience. Even for a small town, there’s plenty to explore and lots of beautiful scenery. With a population of less than 700, this charming small town is a place where you’ll experience true Southern hospitality, like many of the other towns in Tennessee. While in Leipers Fork, you can visit the Leiper’s Creek Gallery, Patina Home & Garden, or the Copper Fox Gallery. There are also many restaurants and other places to grab a bite to eat.

Pulaski, Tennessee

Pulaski, Tennessee is a small but tight-knit community in Giles County. If you’re looking for a charming small town to visit, historic downtown Pulaski has all the Southern charm you need. In many ways, Pulaski has attempted to reclaim their troubling history while still retaining the historic nature of many of the buildings and sites in the area. Pulaski is known for many of the attractions there such as the Giles County Trail of Tears Memorial and the Sam Davis Memorial Museum.

Big Chicken

Founded in October 2018 by retired basketball star Shaquille O’Neal, this fast-casual restaurant chain serves delectable Louisiana-style fried chicken sandwiches. There are a few locations that also serve hard liquor, wine, and craft beers. Furthermore, their chickens are not raised with any hormones or antibiotics.

What To Try

The Original: Your choice of crispy or grilled chicken with Big Chicken sauce and pickles served on a brioche bun. Price: $8.99 each. The staff are very friendly, and the restaurant is spotless. 

KFC

Founded in March 1930 by Colonel Harland Sanders, he began selling fried chicken from a roadside restaurant during the Great Depression. KFC is known for its iconic secret blend of 11 herbs and spices. As of 2024, there are 30,000 locations worldwide. KFC continues to attract customers with its affordable prices and convenient locations.

What To Try

The 10-piece Feast is one of my favorites to get because it’s enough for the whole family, and it has a variety of items. You can choose between 10 pieces of chicken available in the Original recipe, Kentucky grilled, or extra crispy. Furthermore, it comes with gravy, a large coleslaw, 2 large mashed potatoes, a beverage bucket, four biscuits, and four cookies, all for $30.00.

Buffalo Wings and Rings

Founded in 1984, Buffalo Wings and Rings has 80 locations in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Restaurant Business magazine named it number one on its Future 50 list of growing restaurant chains in 2008. 

What To Try 

Buffalo Chicken Sandwich: A crispy chicken fillet tossed in Buffalo sauce, pickles, fried onion slivers, and lettuce served with your choice of ranch or bleu cheese and topped with a chicken wing. It comes with French fries and homemade coleslaw. All for $6.29.

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

Founded in June 1972 with 3,705 locations as of 2021, this fast food chain restaurant is known for its delicious fried chicken. The batter is full of flavor and crispy. There are a variety of options to choose from that will satisfy your fried chicken craving.

What To Try

While their chicken sandwiches are a must-have, their chicken tenders are a real hit. They are marinated and then fried with Louisiana seasonings and herbs and include 4 dipping sauces. I really enjoy the bayou buffalo sauce and blackened ranch sauce. You can pick up 12 handcrafted chicken tenders for $31.19.

Harold’s Chicken Shack

Harold’s Chicken Shack was founded by an African American named Harold Pierce in June 1950. The chain operates mainly in the Black communities in Chicago; however, there are additional locations in Los Angeles, Phoenix, Arizona, California, and Houston, Texas.

What To Try

If you’re looking for an affordable lunch, the chicken sandwich includes lettuce, pickles, and mayonnaise and only costs $10. Another favorite to try is the lemon pepper wings with a side of mild sauce. The sauce is really delicious and has a slightly tangy, sweet, spicy flavor.

Zaxby’s

Established in 1990 with over 900 locations across the United States, Zaxby’s specializes in sandwiches, chicken fingers, and wings. Zaxby’s has become popular for its quick and delicious chicken meals at affordable prices.

What to Try

If you are looking for a light meal, you should try the House Zalad Boxed Lunch. It comes with red cabbage, mixed greens, carrots, fried or grilled chicken, fried onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, cheddar Jack cheese, and your choice of dressing. Served with a chocolate chip cookie and Texas toast, all for $8.99. I would take their House Zalad over Chick-fil-A’s Cobb salad any day.

Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits

Founded in 1977, Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits has over 800 locations. The chain specializes in its signature Cajun-style fried chicken that has unique flavors and crispy skin, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

What To Try

Crunchy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious! In addition, biscuit sandwiches are popular breakfast items, and for lunch or dinner, the bone-in fried chicken is a real hit. Add a side dish of Cajun-seasoned pinto beans, dirty rice, or coleslaw to finish off this meal.

Church’s Texas Chicken

Church’s Texas Chicken was founded in 1952 and has more than 1500 locations. It started as a single walk-up restaurant that only served fried chicken. A roll and two pieces of chicken cost 49 cents. In 1955, Church’s Chicken expanded their menu and included fries and jalapeños.

What To Try

When life gives you fried chicken, make it finger-lickin’ good. Their menu features a variety of fried chicken options that include boneless wings, chicken tenders, sandwiches, wraps, and spicy chicken. Enjoy your fried chicken with a delicious, flaky honey-butter biscuit and flavorful side dishes like coleslaw, gravy, Wild West rice, or jalapeno bombers.

Finally, these 8 fried chicken spots that are better and cheaper than Chick-fil-A are well worth investigating to satisfy your fried chicken craving.

1. Recycle, Repurpose, Reuse, Reduce

While cutting costs is one of the main goals, there are times when it goes a bit too far. For instance, some families collect water waste from the laundry and put it in a bucket, then reuse it to mop the floors and finally use it to flush the toilet. Now, I know that would be a practical idea if you were having a water shortage issue; however, to do that daily is definitely something that would confuse Americans.

Additionally, another way they help raise people’s environmental awareness is to take their unused items to swap shops where they can exchange them for clothing, food ingredients, condiments, and more.

2. Midnight Meals

Some families in China enjoy late-night meals or snacks known as “Siu yeh,” which is popular in Southern China. This meal is served in individual portions and often comes after dinner. Families can sit together and socialize after a late-night shift. Additionally, in Hong Kong late at night, many food stalls sell fried oyster omelets, fish balls, deep-fried sticky tofu, scallion pancakes, and a mixture of noodles. This routine often confuses Americans, as they are used to going to bed after eating dinner.

3. Cleaning the House Daily

Let’s be honest, no one enjoys cleaning the house, especially not every day. However, in Chinese culture, keeping your house clean is a way to maintain balance and harmony in the home. It is believed to be an important responsibility that contributes to the well-being of the family and shows respect for one’s home.

Additionally, there are customary cleaning techniques used in Chinese culture. One includes using a bamboo broom for sweeping. This is because bamboo brooms remove dirt and dust effectively. The other is to use vinegar on glass surfaces and windows. It is believed to remove negative energy from their homes, and it also has natural cleaning properties. In Chinese culture, they also arrange objects in a certain way that supports positive energy flow.

4. Drinking Hot Water

In Chinese culture, it is common to drink hot water each day, even on hot days. While this may seem confusing to Americans, there are many benefits to drinking hot water.

• Hot water is considered a health potion. It helps with blood circulation and digestion, and it also detoxifies.
• It is a sign of culture, culinary creativity, and community. Hot water is used in many Chinese dishes, such as hot pots, soups, and teas.
• In public areas, hot water is always available, and by boiling water, this also ensures that it is safe from any harmful bacteria.

5. Eating With Chopsticks

The most common Chinese household routine is eating with chopsticks. Chopsticks symbolize history and solidarity and are also used in many other Asian countries. Furthermore, different Asian countries have unique chopstick designs to suit their culinary needs. They have been a part of Chinese dining for thousands of years. It is believed that using chopsticks promotes fine motor skills and prevents overeating.

With that said, one should use proper etiquette when using chopsticks. In China, you should never put your chopsticks standing up in the rice. It is also considered rude to point with them. By having good chopstick manners, it shows you respect their culture, just like saying “thank you” and “please.”

6. Burning Incense

The Chinese have been burning incense for thousands of years. It is mostly used when worshipping ancestors and idols, typically during festivals such as the Hungry Ghost Festival, which usually falls in July or August, and the Chinese New Year Festival. In addition, it is also used in their homes to get rid of bad odor, timekeeping, and aromatherapy.

7. Taking Shoes off at the Front Door

In Asian homes, it is normal to remove your shoes and leave them at the door before going into one’s home. This is because they bring in diseases, dirt, and bacteria from outside. Most of the time, you will find a pair of slippers by the front door for guests to wear. However, during social gatherings and big celebrations, guests are not always required to take off their shoes; this is because there won’t be enough slippers for everyone.

8. Drinking Tea

It is a very popular Chinese household routine to drink tea. Tea is considered a necessity in Chinese culture and has been enjoyed for millennia. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, and green tea is the most common. It is often served before meals and is a way to relax and prepare the stomach for breaking down food. 

Here is a list of the most popular teas in China.

• Shifeng Longjing (green tea)
• Mountain Forest Huangshan Maofeng (green tea)
• Youle Huangshanch (sheng puer tea)
• Bi Lou Chun (green tea)
• Da Hong Pao (wulong tea)

Eureka Springs

First on our list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Eureka Springs. The town gets its name from the fact that it’s built around natural springs, so there’s a lot of gorgeous greenery and beauty to behold. Walk around town, and you’ll also see the wonderful historic district, which is home to old and beautiful buildings, including the Basin Park Hotel, the Palace Bath House, and more.

Of course, there are also many lovely shops and stores to visit. While you walk, don’t forget to check out the marvelous architecture of the Throncrown Chapel. You can conclude your visit by heading to the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. That’s where you can get a big thrill by walking through the natural habitat of bears and big cats. Don’t worry, it’s safe and it’s a lot of fun.

Van Buren

Though not as small as some of the other quaint towns on this list, Van Buren is still a great place to visit if you find yourself in the Fort Smith metropolitan area of Arkansas. Take your walking shoes because there’s a lot to see here. Stroll through the Van Buren Historic District, and you’ll be amazed at how much there is to do.

In addition to magical shops and restaurants, there are also several museums and landmark museums that are stunning architectural marvels. One of those marvels is the Drennen Scott House which was built back in 1836. After you’ve toured the city, head to some of the greener areas by visiting several of the parks, including the Lee Creek Reservoir Recreation Area, Fort Smith Park, or Louemma Lake.

Jasper

Easily one of the charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is the quaint town of Jasper. This is a small town, but it’s surrounded by gorgeous hills and lovely landscapes. This is one of those towns with a Main Street that you can walk down as you stop in local shops and eateries. There are no bars here as this is a dry town, but there’s a certain charm to that.

Come here for the atmosphere and for the many fun things to do, from exploring the hiking trails to speaking to the locals. This town is also near many historical landmarks, including the Round Top Mountain Trail, Little Bear Cave Hollow, and the Arkansas Grand Canyon. You could easily spend a weekend here and enjoy every minute of your stay.

Greenwood

Greenwood must have a place on your list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore. This is a great town for a quick trip or to stay for a few days. You can tour the quaint shops and restaurants, and you can also travel 30 miles to the larger town of Fort Smith and spend some time there as well. 

While you’re in Greenwood, stop by Jack Nolen Lake and soak in the natural beauty as you go hiking or enjoy a picnic. You can also stop by Ouachita National Forest and see gorgeous trees and plants, which can be a great learning experience for the kids. In addition to being a nice place to visit, Greenwood is also a great place to raise a family. There are good public schools, it’s a safe neighborhood, and the houses are affordable. Pay a visit and see what you think.

Bella Vista

Bella Vista is a gorgeous small town that’s situated nicely within the Ozark Mountains. If you love history, there’s a lot to see here. Learn more about the past at the Museum of Native American History. Veterans or people who appreciate those in the armed forces can check out the Veterans Wall of Honor. If you love gorgeous architecture, you can stop by the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel.

It’s a huge chapel that combines gorgeous glasswork with stunning arches. Bring your camera because you won’t want to miss it. This is a great town to visit if you want to soak in the beauty of the mountains. Hop on the Tanyard Creek Nature Trails to really soak in the beauty. For an extra thrill, take a detour to War Eagle Cavern, which is a living cavern that will really blow you away.

Batesville

History buffs should stop by Batesville because they’ll get they’ll get their full of Americana. Start by heading downtown, where many of the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One of them is the Melba Theater, so stop by for a show. Then, head to the Old Independence Regional Museum and learn about the town of Batesville and what it looked like before.

All that history will likely have you wanting to learn more about the town, so stop by many of the tasty restaurants and cool shops. If you love sports, then head to the Mark Martin NASCAR Museum. It’s there where you can see all of the uniforms, memorabilia, and trophies that were owned by the driver. Finally, head down to White River. It’s a gorgeous spot that was also a major part of the Civil War. That’s just the tip of the iceberg of what you can see here.

Russellville

Another one of the charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Russellville. This is a great place to visit if you love nature trails, water activities, and recreational areas. Russellville borders two exceptional bodies of water: the Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle. Both offer chances to swim and cool off during the hot summer months.

You can also go kayaking, canoeing, and fishing if the mood strikes you. If you like bass fishing, this is one of the best places to be. Next, enjoy a hike through the Ozark St. Francis National Forest or Lake Dardanelle State Park. If you love any type of recreational activity, from skateboarding to baseball, there are plenty of fields and places to enjoy yourself. The town is also very old, so there are many great historical buildings to see along the way.

Mountainburg

There’s a ton of charm in the quaint town of Mountainburg. In addition to the various restaurants and lovely shops, there are acres of gorgeous nature to behold. There are many trails that you can hike or bike that go through the mountains. Plan to stop at Artist Point, which is a scenic stop that will put the whole scene in perspective.

If you love camping, then this is a place to add to your bucket list. There’s barely any place that isn’t beautiful enough to set up camp. There are other charms of Mountainburg, including a dinosaur park. Bring your kids, and they can run around and climb inside many different dinosaurs. The park also offers basketball parks, a running trail, and a large picnic area. Don’t forget your camera during your visit to Mountainburg.

Heber Springs

If you’re an old-school traveler, you may remember this town by its original name, which was Sugar Loaf. While it’s been renamed, it’s still a wonderful quaint town that you should visit. The town has been around since the mid-1800s and part of its charm is being home to lovely mineral springs. There’s also a large manmade lake that’s over 31,000 acres, which makes it perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and tubing. 

Once you’re back on land, head downtown to the historic district, where you can see large, beautiful landmarks, such as the town square and the courthouse. You can easily spend a day there while checking out the museum and the numerous thrift and antique stores and then catching a show at the downtown theater. This is a place where you could take the family for a long vacation.

North Little Rock

North Little Rock offers you a refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the larger Little Rock area. Here in this small town, you can be near the big city and even go on a tour there if you want. Then, come back and enjoy the scenery here. There are many scenic trails you can enjoy that go along the Arkansas River.

While you’re out, walk through Burns Park, where you’ll find gold courses, playgrounds, and even a full-scale amusement park where there’s fun for you and your kids. Finally, get your camera and head to the Old Mill. It’s a gorgeous piece of architecture from the 1800s that you may recognize from the film “Gone with the Wind.” North Little Rock is a nice, safe town where you can unwind and relax. It’s so charming that you may never want to leave!

Magnolia

If you’re looking for something fun and festive, then one of the charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Magnolia. The town is gorgeous and it will remind you of simpler times. Plus, there’s a lot of great things to do. You won’t know where to start. Check the calendar ahead of time and visit during the annual Magnolia Blossom Festival and soak in the beauty of the season before participating in the World Championship Steak Cookoff.

If you enjoy BBQ, then you might go to Magnolia to see the World’s Largest Charcoal Grill. Once your stomach is full, you can go on and learn more about the history of the area by visiting some of the older structures. They include the South Arkansas Heritage Museum and the Columbia County Jail. Finally, take your bike to Logoly State Park and explore the trails.

Altus

You may not have realized that Arkansas has a flourishing wine country. It’s a fact, and the quaint town of Altus is at the heart of it all. Travel throughout the town, and you’ll come across four separate vineyards. You can tour and enjoy each of them. While you do, you can get a spectacular view of the Ozark mountains.

All the wineries are of the finest quality, so if you’re a fan, you need to check them out. There are other fun things to do in Altus, including stopping by the amazing St. Mary’s Catholic Church and hiking through the many parks in the area. Of course, you can have a wonderful time just walking down the main streets. There are many friendly people, tasty restaurants, and fun shops to discover along the way.

Siloam Springs

There’s something for everyone to do in the quaint town of Siloam Springs. It’s near the water, so you can go swimming or visit the City of Siloam Springs Kayak Park. If you enjoy other types of adventure, you can also find trails for hiking and biking throughout the town. This place is a must-see if you love history. The town of Siloam Springs is located within the Cherokee Nation, so there’s a lot to discover about the local residents.

To learn more, head by the Siloam Springs Museum Society, where you can get up close and person with many artifacts and exhibits that show you just how amazing this small town has been over the years. You’ll likely be amazed at the lovely homes in this town that are likely unlike what you have seen at home. It’s quite a lovely experience.

Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro is easily one of the most unique small towns in all of Arkansas. This is a geographical attraction that must be on every travel bucket list because it’s where you’ll find the Crater of Diamonds State Park. It’s a place where you can find real diamonds and shiny bling. This is one of the few places where the public is invited to find their own diamonds, so bring the kids.

After that, stick around and visit Daisy State Park where you can hike and walk through the wilderness, go fishing, or just lay back and relax. There are plenty of great places to stay in Murfreesboro, including the historic Diamonds Old West Hotel. Walk down the city streets, and you’ll also see many great restaurants and local shops.

Ozark

If you’re looking to see the wonderful Ozark Mountains from a different angle, then add the town of Ozark to your list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore. Located on the southern side of the mountain, this town offers many ways for you to relax during your vacation. If you enjoy a sip of wine, you can stop by the Vineyard Vinyasa Retreat and try the newest varieties while soaking in amazing scenery.

Later on, bring your camera to Beatles Park where you can see creative statues and sculptures that are dedicated to the classic band. They’ll blow your mind. The park is here because this is the only city that the Beatles ever visited as a band. There’s a lot of folk history intertwined in the city of Ozark, so it’s worth coming if you love great music.

El Dorado

El Dorado is one of the larger towns on our list, but make no mistake, it’s a stunning place that has a small-town vibe. The town is the county seat of Union County, so it has a lot to offer as far as shops, restaurants, and hidden places to discover. There’s even an active nightlife scene if you’re visiting without the kids. If you do have children, there are still plenty of places to go and discover.

There’s the Newton House museum, where you can check out great exhibits that show you how the town has changed over time. Nature lovers have a couple of options here. There’s the South Arkansas Arboretum which is packed with colorful flowers that will stir your soul. After that, head to either Oil Heritage Park or Mattocks Park and sit on the grass, have a picnic, or take a walk and soak in the natural beauty.

Fairfield Bay

If you’ve got a week off of work and you want to visit one of the most gorgeous lakeside resorts in the country, then stop by the small town of Fairfield Bay. As the name suggests, this is the go-to place to visit in Arkansas for all things aquatic fun. There are beaches and water activities galore. You can go boating, skiing, fishing, tubing, or anything else your heart desires.

If you rather have fun on land and you enjoy golfing, then Fairfield Bay is also the place for you. This town has fourteen beautiful golf courses. Try one or all of them and relax on the links. There are a couple of very lovely and quaint lodging options here as well. We recommend staying in the Cobblestone Inn & Suites where you can get an amazing room at a good price, which is great because with so much to do, you won’t likely be spending a lot of time there.

Mountain View

Mountain View is a great small town to visit if you love music, especially folk music. This is one of the folk centers of the world. You can get your fill here. Start by visiting the Stone County Museum. That’s where you can learn the long history of the folk tradition in Mountain View. Then, walk around town, and you’ll see little hints of the folk tradition in stores and restaurants. 

If you play an instrument, bring it along, and you could form a band! There are plenty of other fun activities here as well. If you love hiking, you can visit the Ozark Folk Center State Park and then check out the H.S. Mabry Barn. For a little more outdoor adventure, head to Loco Ropes. While there, you can ride fun zip lines and try your hand at unique rope climbing missions.

Mountain Home

The name of this town just screams happiness and relaxation. As the name suggests, this town is situated near the Ozark Mountains, so there are endless opportunities to hike, bike, and enjoy the natural beauty. To get a real thrill, stop by Cooper Park. There’s a mountain lake there where you can swim in the freshest of waters.

There are also many different parks in the area, including Keller Park, where you can go hiking or exploring or hit a few balls on the baseball diamond. The town is also home to numerous museums and gorgeous art exhibits that are truly unique. Travel down the streets of the small town and you can see many different shops and stores that you can spend hours exploring.

Rogers

The final entry on this list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Rogers. Located in Benton County, this city is chock full of history. During your stay, visit the War Eagle Cavern, War Eagle Mill, and Daisy Airgun Museum. They are all beautiful structures that have a lot to teach you about the history of the town.

The museum is particularly interesting because it has a collection of vintage artifacts from years gone by. After a night of exploring, you can check out the numerous restaurants and breweries in town that all have something special to offer. Wake up early the next day and head to Hobbs State Park Conservation Area, where you can walk through nature and breathe in the freshest air you’ve ever experienced.

Free Curbside Pickup – Sam’s Club

Club members receive free curbside pickup on eligible $50 orders. Plus members can now get free curbside pickup, and they will even load your car.

Scan & Go Check Out – Sam’s Club

Are you running late and want to avoid the queue? You can now scan your items, pay in the app, and head straight out the door. In addition, if you have a budget, you can see your total as you go along. Don’t forget to save even more by looking for extra savings items in the Scan & Go app.

Membership – BJ’s Wholesale Club

According to Mass Live, as of January 2025, membership fees will increase. The Club level fees begin at $60 per year, and Club+ fees start at $120 per year. However, that’s still cheaper than Costco’s.

Two House Brands – BJ’s Wholesale Club

Moreover, BJ’s has two different house brands, Berkley Jensen and Wellsley Farms. Whereas Costco only has one house brand. The quality is as good or better than other national brands with big savings.

Kitchen and Dining Sets – Whole Foods Market

If you are looking for a gorgeous new dining set, you should consider going to Whole Foods Market. You can pick up a stunning new set between $179 and $732, whereas one at Costco can cost between $500 and $8000. You can save a fortune.

Fresh Produce – Whole Foods Market

Fruits and vegetables have a short life span, so it would be better to buy these items at Whole Foods Market. But unless you have a few meals worked out for a 20 lb bag of potatoes from Costco, you will be more likely to waste some of them.

Batteries – Dollar Store

Sometimes you find yourself in a situation where you haven’t got any more batteries. This can be quite frustrating. There are dollar stores everywhere. You can pick up a pack for $1 at the Dollar Store as opposed to paying $15 or more at Costco.

Glassware – Dollar Store

Dollar Stores have a wide variety of glassware, whereas at Costco there is a limited selection, and you’ll probably be paying a lot more. For example, a set of 8 wine glasses at Costco can cost you about $68.99, whereas at the Dollar Store, you’ll be paying about $1.25 each. Which means you’ll only be paying $10 for a new set.

Children’s Loft Beds – IKEA

Loft beds are great if your child has a small room. Your kid can do homework or play underneath and sleep on top. Costco’s loft bed is $429.99; however, IKEA can beat that for $349, and it has a built-in desk surface.

IKEA Family – IKEA

Signing up for IKEA Family is free, and customers can reap the following great benefits.

• Free shipping on small orders over $50.
• Members-only offers.
• Access to exclusive national offers.
• Free coffee and tea. Try their Swedish meatballs for lunch.
• Surprises, rewards, and more.
• Free workshops and events.
• 90-day price protection.
• Buyback and resell.

Services – Ace Hardware

Most Ace Hardware stores offer services such as acrylic cutting, screen repair, glass cutting, plumbing, electrical, handyman, and heating and cooling that can help save you a bundle of cash.

Tool Rental – Ace Hardware

All Ace Hardware stores are privately owned and often rent out their tools. The upside to this is that their rentals are not used as much as bigger stores. So, if you don’t want to buy a new floor sander or another power tool, you can find a deal to rent one at Ace.

Reward System – Kohl’s

You can sign up for free to Kohl’s reward system. Reward members can earn up to 5% cash rewards and 7.5% when they use a Kohl’s card. You also receive a birthday gift, other personalized perks, and more.

Clothing – Kohl’s

Customers have said that they often find 50% off deals for clothing at Khol’s and have found that the quality of the material is much better and they have a larger collection than Costco’s.

Batteries – AutoZone

While Costco members can benefit from car services at great prices, they do not offer some services. If you need to replace your car battery, AutoZone will gladly do it. Furthermore, they also offer free battery testing, recycling, and charging.

Vehicle Parts- AutoZone

Furthermore, vehicle parts can be costly, and it is best to shop around. You can find better deals at AutoZone than Costco. It’s always best to shop around first.

50. Ridgecrest, California

• Median home value: $224,600 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $85,872
• Total population: 28,118

49. Steele Creek, Alaska

• Median home value: $309,900 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $118,934
• Total population: 6,542

48. Cumberland, Maryland

• Median home value: $119,500 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $45,915
• Total population: 19,041

47. White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

• Median home value: $122,000 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $47,292
• Total population: 2,707

46. Scranton, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $125,700 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $48,776
• Total population: 76,119

45. Apple Mountain Lake, Virginia

• Median home value: $310,200 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $120,539
• Total population: 1,584

44. Cobleskill, New York

• Median home value: $168,800 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $65,610
• Total population: 4,152

43. Deltana, Alaska

• Median home value: $267,700 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $105,250
• Total population: 2,059

42. Lakemont, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $118,600 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $46,840
• Total population: 1,511

41. Pulaski, Virginia

• Median home value: $137,400 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $55,213
• Total population: 8,982

40. Keyser, West Virginia

• Median home value: $115,400 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $46,724
• Total population: 4,879

39. Nice, California

• Median home value: $170,600 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $69,653
• Total population: 2,389

38. Mount Union, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $93,600 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $38,382
• Total population: 2,130

37. Middlesborough, Kentucky

• Median home value: $87,000 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $35,798
• Total population: 9,383

36. Whitehall, New York

• Median home value: $96,400 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $40,294
• Total population: 2,166

35. Lewistown, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $86,500 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $36,166
• Total population: 8,522

34. Hinton, West Virginia

• Median home value: $85,400 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $35,735
• Total population: 2,167

33. Gorham, New Hampshire

• Median home value: $132,800 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $55,845
• Total population: 2,043

32. Jenkins, Kentucky

• Median home value: $61,300 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $26,500
• Total population: 1,862

31. La Vale, Maryland

• Median home value: $168,200 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $73,778
• Total population: 4,351

30. Powells Crossroads, Tennessee

• Median home value: $146,100 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $64,100
• Total population: 1,686

29. Ellenville, New York

• Median home value: $172,700 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $77,125
• Total population: 4,213

28. Berlin, New Hampshire

• Median home value: $93,200 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $41,638
• Total population: 9,485

27. Olyphant, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $132,200 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $60,120
• Total population: 5,372

26. Richwood, West Virginia

• Median home value: $68,000 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $30,962
• Total population: 2,567

25. Altoona, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $110,700 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $50,435
• Total population: 43,821

24. Warm Springs, Oregon

• Median home value: $129,200 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $59,167
• Total population: 2,453

23. Old Forge, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $156,300 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $71,615
• Total population: 8,506

22. Neah Bay, Washington

• Median home value: $137,500 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $63,750
• Total population: 1,081

21. Metlakatla, Alaska

• Median home value: $163,900 (2.1 times income)
• Median household income: $78,750
• Total population: 1,437

20. Marlinton, West Virginia

• Median home value: $82,000 (2.1 times income)
• Median household income: $39,643
• Total population: 1,139

19. Bluefield, West Virginia

• Median home value: $94,400 (2.1 times income)
• Median household income: $45,854
• Total population: 9,619

18. Saltville, Virginia

• Median home value: $84,900 (2.1 times income)
• Median household income: $41,339
• Total population: 2,085

17. Bowling Green, Maryland

• Median home value: $119,100 (2.0 times income)
• Median household income: $59,773
• Total population: 1,102

16. Parsons, West Virginia

• Median home value: $88,600 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $45,729
• Total population: 1,524

15. Dannemora, New York

• Median home value: $130,900 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $67,778
• Total population: 3,373

14. McClure, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $119,100 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $62,667
• Total population: 1,171

13. Patrick Springs, Virginia

• Median home value: $99,500 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $52,548
• Total population: 2,204

12. Renovo, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $54,400 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $28,750
• Total population: 1,081

11. Cumberland, Kentucky

• Median home value: $59,900 (1.8 times income)
• Median household income: $32,716
• Total population: 2,390

10. Covington, Virginia

• Median home value: $80,100 (1.8 times income)
• Median household income: $45,737
• Total population: 5,722

9. Westernport, Maryland

• Median home value: $83,500 (1.6 times income)
• Median household income: $50,938
• Total population: 1,993

8. Springville, Virginia

• Median home value: $65,700 (1.6 times income)
• Median household income: $41,250
• Total population: 1,017

7. East Carbon, Utah

• Median home value: $80,700 (1.5 times income)
• Median household income: $52,554
• Total population: 1,441

6. Atkins, Virginia

• Median home value: $66,300 (1.5 times income)
• Median household income: $43,318
• Total population: 1,028

5. King Cove, Alaska

• Median home value: $118,200 (1.5 times income)
• Median household income: $79,844
• Total population: 1,108

4. Searles Valley, California

• Median home value: $78,000 (1.4 times income)
• Median household income: $54,013
• Total population: 1,716

3. Desert Edge, California

• Median home value: $53,600 (1.4 times income)
• Median household income: $38,668
• Total population: 3,715

2. Hays, Montana

• Median home value: $63,600 (1.3 times income)
• Median household income: $49,423
• Total population: 1,095

1. Johnstown, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $40,000 (1.2 times income)
• Median household income: $33,466
• Total population: 18,429

50. Cape Girardeau, Missouri

• Median home value: $177,500 (3.4 times income)
• Median household income: $51,671
• Total population: 39,795

49. Middletown, Connecticut

• Median home value: $257,800 (3.4 times income)
• Median household income: $75,120
• Total population: 48,152

48. Waterville, Maine

• Median home value: $154,400 (3.4 times income)
• Median household income: $45,208
• Total population: 15,785

47. Moorhead, Minnesota

• Median home value: $234,300 (3.4 times income)
• Median household income: $68,680
• Total population: 44,443

46. Winona, Minnesota

• Median home value: $176,600 (3.4 times income)
• Median household income: $52,500
• Total population: 26,083

45. Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $220,100 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $66,640
• Total population: 11,805

44. Tahlequah, Oklahoma

• Median home value: $163,300 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $49,444
• Total population: 16,389

43. Duluth, Minnesota

• Median home value: $209,800 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $63,545
• Total population: 86,772

42. Maryville, Missouri

• Median home value: $162,100 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $49,144
• Total population: 10,691

41. Stevens Point, Wisconsin

• Median home value: $176,400 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $53,611
• Total population: 25,549

40. Champaign, Illinois

• Median home value: $191,200 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $58,273
• Total population: 88,628

39. Glassboro, New Jersey

• Median home value: $256,900 (3.3 times income)
• Median household income: $78,518
• Total population: 23,014

38. Kirksville, Missouri

• Median home value: $133,100 (3.2 times income)
• Median household income: $41,089
• Total population: 17,533

37. St. Peter, Minnesota

• Median home value: $217,400 (3.2 times income)
• Median household income: $67,255
• Total population: 12,039

36. Troy, New York

• Median home value: $177,100 (3.2 times income)
• Median household income: $54,837
• Total population: 51,268

35. Keene, New Hampshire

• Median home value: $221,400 (3.2 times income)
• Median household income: $69,381
• Total population: 22,907

34. Edwardsville, Illinois

• Median home value: $277,000 (3.2 times income)
• Median household income: $87,094
• Total population: 26,622

33. Plattsburgh, New York

• Median home value: $172,900 (3.1 times income)
• Median household income: $55,049
• Total population: 19,907

32. Kalamazoo, Michigan

• Median home value: $152,700 (3.1 times income)
• Median household income: $48,649
• Total population: 73,342

31. Indiana, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $124,100 (3.1 times income)
• Median household income: $40,013
• Total population: 14,082

30. Lubbock, Texas

• Median home value: $181,600 (3.1 times income)
• Median household income: $58,734
• Total population: 258,190

29. Berea, Kentucky

• Median home value: $167,200 (3.1 times income)
• Median household income: $54,481
• Total population: 15,404

28. Bourbonnais, Illinois

• Median home value: $238,000 (3.1 times income)
• Median household income: $77,738
• Total population: 18,125

27. Normal, Illinois

• Median home value: $194,400 (3.0 times income)
• Median household income: $63,965
• Total population: 52,920

26. Macomb, Illinois

• Median home value: $103,800 (3.0 times income)
• Median household income: $35,064
• Total population: 15,207

25. Meadville, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $136,200 (3.0 times income)
• Median household income: $46,157
• Total population: 12,929

24. Huntington, West Virginia

• Median home value: $114,800 (2.9 times income)
• Median household income: $39,066
• Total population: 46,637

23. Canyon, Texas

• Median home value: $198,600 (2.9 times income)
• Median household income: $67,631
• Total population: 15,089

22. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $171,800 (2.9 times income)
• Median household income: $60,187
• Total population: 303,843

21. Williamsport, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $136,400 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $48,388
• Total population: 27,755

20. Binghamton, New York

• Median home value: $117,400 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $42,031
• Total population: 47,617

19. Pella, Iowa

• Median home value: $240,100 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $86,025
• Total population: 10,556

18. Oneonta, New York

• Median home value: $170,900 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $62,188
• Total population: 14,097

17. Syracuse, New York

• Median home value: $117,900 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $43,584
• Total population: 146,134

16. Waverly, Iowa

• Median home value: $211,000 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $78,278
• Total population: 10,399

15. Marshall, Missouri

• Median home value: $137,100 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $52,171
• Total population: 13,687

14. Carnot-Moon, Pennsylvania

• Median home value: $231,900 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $89,573
• Total population: 13,345

13. Charleston, Illinois

• Median home value: $122,700 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $47,533
• Total population: 17,795

12. Tiffin, Ohio

• Median home value: $123,600 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $48,869
• Total population: 17,894

11. Emporia, Kansas

• Median home value: $125,200 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $49,661
• Total population: 24,118

10. Portales, New Mexico

• Median home value: $124,000 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $49,313
• Total population: 12,085

9. Brent, Florida

• Median home value: $106,500 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $44,053
• Total population: 22,969

4. University Heights, Ohio

• Median home value: $209,800 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $91,960
• Total population: 13,649

3. Atchison, Kansas

• Median home value: $113,900 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $50,344
• Total population: 10,834

2. Muncie, Indiana

• Median home value: $88,000 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $40,309
• Total population: 65,167

1. Geneva, New York

• Median home value: $123,100 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $63,602
• Total population: 12,670

Each States Go-To Pizza Place

Pizza is a comfort food that many in the United States enjoy. Sometimes, it is a tradition to eat pizza every week as a family. This dish is easy to eat and adaptable. There are many ways to make great pizza, whether your go-to pizza toppings are cheese and pepperoni or you love exploring new flavors.

The following list is organized in alphabetical order by state. It includes each pizza place’s city and the most popular pizza on the menu. (This was determined by Yelp and Google Reviews and the most photographed pizza.) Of course, everyone has different preferences, so if the most popular pizza doesn’t make your mouth water, every restaurant has so many different options!

Now, let’s look at each state’s go-to pizza place so you can begin planning your next family outing.

Marco’s Pizza

• State: Alabama
• City: Troy
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu (According to Reviews): Cheese Pizza

Moose’s Tooth

• State: Alaska
• City: Anchorage
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Spicy Thai Chicken

Hideaway House

• State: Arizona
• City: Sedona
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: roasted peach and caramelized pancetta pizza

Grateful Head Pizza Oven and Beer Garden

• State: Arkansas
• City: Hot Springs
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Direwolf

Bestia

• State: California
• City: Los Angeles
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Burrata Pizza

Osteria Marco

• State: Colorado
• City: Denver
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Prosciutto Pizza

Modern Apizza

• State: Connecticut
• City: New Haven
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Clams Casino

Mr. P’s Pizzeria

• State: Delaware
• City: Lewis
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Wood-Fired Pizza

The Alchemist Cafe

• State: Florida
• City: Wilton Manors
• Popular Pizza on the Menu: Customers rave about the Hawaiian pizza

Vinnie Van Go-Go’s

• State: Georgia
• City: Savannah
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Spicy Sausage Pizza

Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman

• State: Hawaii
• City: Kapolei, Oahu
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Hamakua Wild Mushroom Pizza

The Wylder

• State: Idaho
• City: Boise
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Honey Badger Pizza

Pequod’s Pizzeria

• State: Illinois
• City: Chicago
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Deep Dish Pizza

Futuro

• State: Indiana
• City: Indianapolis
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Super Pizza

Zoey’s Pizzeria

• State: Iowa
• City: Marion
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Chicago-Style Pizza

Pizza West

• State: Kansas
• City: Shawnee
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Mac N Cheese Pizza

Glencoe General Store

• State: Kentucky
• City: Glencoe
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Meat Lovers Pizza

Domenica

• State: Louisiana
• City: New Orleans
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: White Pizza

Pizzaiolo

• State: Maine
• City: Portland
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Buffalo Chicken Pizza

Pizza Rosa

• State: Maryland
• City: Galthersburg
• Most Popular Item on the Menu: Black Truffle Pizza

Russell House Tavern

• State: Massachusetts
• City: Cambridge
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Breakfast Pizza

Silver Beach Pizza

• State: Michigan
• City: Saint Joseph
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: The Garlic Greek Pizza

Surly Brewing

• State: Minnesota
• City: Minneapolis
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Giardiniera Pizza

Natchez Brewing Company

• State: Mississippi
• City: Natchez
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Phat Phats Pie

Anthonino’s Taverna

• State: Missouri
• City: Saint Louis
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Gyro Pizza

North Fork Pizza

• State: Montana
• City: Columbia Falls
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Glacier Rim Pizza

Tasty Pizza

• State: Nebraska
• City: Omaha
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Bacon Gouda Pizza

Secret Pizza

• State: Nevada
• City: Las Vegas
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: White Pizza

Tilton House of Pizza

• State: New Hampshire
• City: Tilton
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Per customers, anything you order is excellent.

Razza

• State: New Jersey
• City: Jersey City
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Margherita Pizza

Thicc Pizza Co.

• State: New Mexico
• City: Albuquerque
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Roni Roni Pizza

Lombardi’s Pizza

• State: New York
• City: New York
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Clam Pie

Geno D’s Pizza

• State: North Carolina
• City: Charlotte
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Hot Honey Pizza

Rhombus Guys

• State: North Dakota
• City: Fargo
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Tuscany

Tyler’s Pizzeria & Bakery

• State: Ohio
• City: Reynoldsburg
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Wood-Fired Pizza

DiCintio’s Pizza Cucina

• State: Oklahoma
• City: Marlow
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Margherita

Apizza Scholls

• State: Oregon
• City: Portland
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Apizza Amore

Barbuzzo

• State: Pennsylvania
• City: Philadelphia
• Most Popular Item on the Menu: Uovo Pizza

Caserta Pizzeria

• State: Rhode Island
• City: Providence
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Pepperoni Pizza

The Obstinate Daughter

• State: South Carolina
• City: Sullivan’s Island
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Old Danger Pizza

Independent Ale House

• State: South Dakota
• City: Rapid City
• Most Photograph Pizza on the Menu: Mashed Potato Pizza

Five Points Pizza

• State: Tennessee
• City: Nashville
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Prosciutto and Basil

Home Slice Pizza

• State: Texas
• City: Austin
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Margherita Pizza

River Rock Roasting Company

• State: Utah
• City: La Verkin
• Most Popular Item on the Menu: BBQ Chicken Pizza

Pizzeria Verita

• State: Vermont
• City: Burlington
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Wood-Fired Pizza

Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap

• State: Virginia
• City: Alexandria
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Diavola

Serious Pie Downtown

• State: Washington
• City: Seattle
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Sweet Fennel Sausage Pizza

Pies and Pints

• State: West Virginia
• City: Fayetteville
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Heirloom Pizza

Santino’s Little Italy

• State: Wisconsin
• City: Milwaukee
• Most Photographed Pizza on the Menu: Italian Beef & Giardiniera Pizza

Hand Fire Pizza

• State: Wyoming
• City: Jackson
• Most Popular Pizza on the Menu: Wood-Fired Pizzas

In Conclusion

If you are looking for a pizza place that is so much more than the big chains have to offer, try one of these popular places. Whether because of the wood-fired pizzas or because many of these restaurants ooze a cozy and friendly atmosphere, they quickly become your family favorites.

There are several excellent top-rated pizza places in every state. If you want to try something other than Domino’s or Pizza Hut on your next family outing, visit one of these go-to pizza places.

Q.) What Should You Replace to Keep Your Engine On Time?

This is one of the simple car maintenance tasks that’s best done by a mechanic.

A.) The Timing Belts

When you go to the mechanic, ask them to check your timing belts. They ensure that your engine runs properly. If you forget, the belt could tear and break other components under your hood.

Q.) What Should You Change So Your Engine Doesn’t Fail?

This is one of the most essential car maintenance tasks that everyone must do.

A.) The Oil

Do not put off changing your oil or it could be catastrophic. Oil is necessary for the performance of your vehicle. If you don’t have lubrication in your engine, it could fail. The cost of a new engine is huge.

Q.) What Should You Rotate Regularly?

This is another one of the simple car maintenance tasks that’s easy, but most people put off.

A.) Rotate Your Tires

Rotate your tires once or twice per year to ensure that they don’t wear down. If you don’t replace them, your car could start vibrating or the tires could wear out completely.

Q.) What Filters Should be Changed?

This is one of the most forgotten tasks.

A.) Change Your Air Filters

You should change your air filters at the intervals recommended by your vehicle’s manual. Failure to change air filters can reduce engine performance. Plus, you’ll likely get fewer miles per gallon.

Q.) What Should You Change So Your Car Stops?

Many people take the fact that their vehicle will stop for granted. What should you do?

A.) Your Brakes

Have your brakes checked whenever you go in for maintenance. If you hear your brakes grinding when you stop, then have them checked at your nearest convenience. You don’t want your brakes going out.

Q.) Which System Should You Flush Annually?

This is one of the simple car maintenance tasks that a mechanic can do.

A.) Flush Your Cooling System

This is one that many people don’t think about. However, you should flush your cooling system to avoid rust and debris build-up. You’ll keep your engine running smoothly.

Q.) Changing This Fluid Will Help Your Transmission. What is it?

Many people forget the transmission.

A.) Transmission Fluid

Check your car owner’s manual for when to change your transmission fluid. Old fluid can cause your vehicle to overheat, and shifting can become more difficult.

Q.) Cleaning This Item Under the Hood Will Help

The main piece that enables your car to turn must be maintained.

A.) The Car Battery

One of the simple car maintenance tasks you’ll want to do is to clean your battery. More specifically, clean the battery terminals if you notice corrosion.

Q.) You Should Do This at the Gas Station. What is it?

Not every time, but occasionally.

A.) Check Tire Pressure

At least once per month, check the tire pressure when you stop for gas. Check the side of your tire for the necessary PSI, and don’t fill it more than that.

Q.) What Should You Replace So You Can See?

They sure help when it starts raining!

A.) Your Windshield Wipers

Once you notice that your windshield wipers aren’t working properly and are streaking, consider changing them. The last thing you need is for them to fail when the next major storm comes around.

Q.) There are Several of These Around the Vehicle That You Should Check. What are They?

This is perhaps the easiest of the simple car maintenance tasks.

A.) Check Your Lights

Take the time on a regular basis to check all of the lights on your car to ensure that they’re illuminating and working properly. That includes headlights, hazard lights, brake lights, and turn signals.

Q.) Do You Regularly Use These Safety Mechanisms?

If you don’t, you should.

A.) They are Your Seatbelts

Regularly check your seatbelts in front and back and ensure that they buckle properly.

Q.) How Can You Clean the Air in the Car?

This task is often missed.

A.) By Replacing Your Cabin Air Filter

You may not realize it but the cabin air filter is what is responsible for filtering the pollen and dust out of the inside of your car. It can get in through your ventilation system. Replace it so you can be healthy while you drive.

Q.) Did You Remember the Break Fluid?

There’s more to checking brakes than just waiting to hear them grind.

A.) Refill Your Brake Fluid

The brake fluid is what helps your brakes to stop the car as smoothly as possible. Over time, the fluid can evaporate, so you need to replace it.

Q.) How Can You Make Your Fuel Work Better for You?

There’s more to gas than just putting fuel in the car.

A.) By Cleaning Out Your Fuel System

Clean out your fuel system every 30,000 miles. A mechanic can tell you what’s best for your particular vehicle. By doing so, you’ll remove the gunk from your fuel injectors, and your car will accelerate much more smoothly.

Q.) How Do You Maintain Your Transmission?

The transmission is another essential component of your vehicle.

A.) By Replacing Your Transmission Fluid

Check under the hood and replace your transmission fluid when necessary. The fluid is responsible for lubricating your gears. Let it dry up and you could have big problems. Do this every 100,000 miles.

Q.) Do You Know Why Turning Your Steering Wheel is So Easy?

Yes, there’s more to it than just turning a wheel.

A.) It’s Because of Your Power Steering

Without power steering, turning the wheel of your car would be next to impossible, especially if you needed to turn quickly. Replace the power steering fluid so you’re never faced with difficult driving.

Q.) How Do You Maintain Your Rear Wheels?

Cars are more complicated than you think!

A.) By Maintaining Your Differential

The differential of your vehicle is the gearbox at the rear of your vehicle that helps to propel your car forward. This is a part that you should have inspected after 60,000 miles. It’s probably in fine shape, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Q.) How Often Should You Change Your Car Battery?

Yes, it will need to be replaced at some point.

A.) Every 4-5 Years

By the end of 5 years, your battery will likely need to be replaced. If you don’t replace it, one day you’ll walk out to your car, and it won’t turn on. Replacing the battery is a very easy process.

Q.) What Do You Do When A “Check Engine Light” Comes On?

This is one of the most simple car maintenance tasks you can do.

A.) Have Your Vehicle Inspected

It can be scary when a light turns on on your dashboard, but don’t ignore it. It can mean something minor, or it could be a big deal. Have the car inspected just in case.

Burger King

It’s no secret that Burger King is one of McDonald’s biggest competitors. You can tell by their cheeky marketing tactics, like Burger King coming up with the line, “Why eat with a clown when you can dine with the king?” Even though McDonald’s fries are a classic choice, many say that Burger King fries are superior to McDonald’s.

Crispier than McDonald’s fries

I’m not the biggest Burger King fan, but I have to say their fries beat McDonald’s on many levels. Burger King fries are not only thicker than McDonald’s fries, but they’re also crispier, which is an important quality for French fries. While there’s not necessarily anything unique about Burger King fries, they’re a solid choice if you’re looking for delicious and salty fast-food french fries.

Checker’s

If you choose Checker’s for lunch over another fast food restaurant, it’s probably because of their french fries. Their seasoned fries are so popular that you can even purchase them frozen in certain grocery stores. Whether you choose a burger or one of their spicy chicken sandwiches, you won’t be disappointed when you order a side of fries with your meal at Checker’s.

Just the right amount of spice

According to Checker’s, their fries are “secretly seasoned.” Although they’re not spicy, they have a more diverse flavor than fries from places like McDonald’s. It’s no wonder that Checker’s fries have been voted some of the best fast food fries in national rankings. The director of Research and Development at Checker’s says the secret is that the fries are coated in a seasoned fry batter to give them their unique flavor.

Popeye’s

If you’re a fan of spicy fries, Popeye’s may be the best choice for you. Popeye’s offers their signature Cajun french fries, which have the perfect amount of seasoning and are bursting with flavor. You can’t go wrong with some fried chicken, fries, and a biscuit.

Best spicy fries

Popeye’s not only has some of the best fried chicken of any fast food restaurant, but they also have tasty fries. If you’re tired of plain, salted fries, try the Cajun fries at Popeye’s for something a little different. The fries at Popeye’s are tossed in a Cajun seasoning that gives them the right amount of spice. They also give you a decent amount instead of skimping on the fries like some other restaurants do.

Five Guys

Five Guys fries are a favorite among fast food-goers, but they’re different from the other fries on this list. If you’re a fan of crispy fries, Five Guys fries are unlikely to be your favorite. The flavor is good but they lack the crispiness some other fast food fries have. To get the most enjoyment out of them, it’s best to eat them right away.

Enough fries for everyone

Five Guys may be more expensive than some of the other fast food or quick service restaurants on this list, but they do give you a good value for the fries. You’ll usually find the bottom of your bag is filled with fries along with the fry container. Five Guys fries are freshly cut and you can order either regular or Cajun style.

Wendy’s

When it comes to the best fast food french fries, Wendy’s has to be on the list. Some will even argue that Wendy’s has the best overall french fries out of any fast food joint. Even when it comes to their hamburgers, Wendy’s uses beef that is fresh, never frozen, so you know their fries are fresh too.

Better alternative to McDonald’s

Wendy’s provides one of the best fast food french fry experiences by selling perfectly salty and crispy fries. There’s nothing seemingly unique or special about them, but when you get them fresh, they are the perfect classic cut fry. Wendy’s changed their fry recipe back in 2021 and added the Hot & Crispy Guarantee. With this new recipe, their fries are always fresh and deliciously crispy.

Chick-fil-A

When it comes to waffle fries, no one can make them like Chick-fil-A. The shape of the fries is one of the main things that makes Chick-fil-A fries stand out from the rest. They also taste great with Chick-fil-A’s wide range of dipping sauces.

Iconic waffle fries

Chick-fil-A is one of the only fast-food restaurants I could never get enough of. Their iconic waffle fries are some of the best out of all the fast food restaurants. They’re salty, crispy, and taste delicious dipped in Chick-fil-A sauce (or Polynesian, if you prefer.) They pair perfectly with an order of Chick-fil-A nuggets and even one of their tasty milkshakes.

Culver’s

Unlike McDonald’s fries, Culver’s offers crinkle-cut fries that are always fresh. Although it’s difficult to choose between their fries and a side of their cheese curds, the fries are never disappointing.

Always fresh and crispy

If you’re a fan of crinkle-cut fries, Culver’s has some of the best french fries out of any fast food chain. The food at Culver’s is always fresh, so you know the fries are going to come out hot and crispy as well. If you really want the full experience, I recommend ordering a side of their Wisconsin cheese sauce to dip the fries in. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Shake Shack

Shake Shack, like Culver’s, sells crispy crinkle-cut fries. These fries are perfectly crisp on the outside while still being soft on the inside. They pair perfectly with a Shake Shack burger and milkshake.

Crispy crinkle-cut fries

Out of all the fast food fries on the list, Shake Shack’s fries deserve to be at the top. Their fries are always crispy but never burnt. They have just enough salt to be delicious without being too salty. The texture of these fries is really what makes them one of the best. Some people have strong opinions about fry shape, but if you’re a fan of the crinkle-cut variety, don’t miss out on Shake Shack’s fries.

Howard Johnson’s

For a long time, Howard Johnson’s was one of the most recognizable restaurants in the country. This famous orange-roofed restaurant was everywhere, with over 1,000 locations across the country. There was a huge menu in each restaurant that had something for everyone, including fried clams and 28 ice cream flavors. Sadly, though this was one of the most famous 1970s restaurants, it only lasted until 1979.

That’s when Marriott bought the company, and they proceeded to shut down all company-owned Howard Johnson’s locations. Soon after, the franchise restaurants closed, and the rest was history. Most recently, the restaurant was made famous for being on episodes of “Mad Men.”

Burger Chef

If the name Burger Chef reminds you of McDonalds then that makes sense. After all, during its heyday, Burger Chef was the second most popular restaurant, second only to Micky D’s. Like its competitor, Burger Chef locations were all over the United States.

Their most noteworthy burger was the Big Shef, which was a double cheeseburger with a special sauce. The company was eventually purchased by the company that owns Hardees. The chain started to die off in the 1980s, and the last Burger Chef restaurant closed in 1996.

Sambo’s

Sambo’s is one of the 1970s restaurants that doesn’t exist anymore, and that’s mostly because of its theme. The restaurant was named after the character Sambo, and the walls were covered with Sambo artwork and decorations. The problem was the book the restaurant was based on, “The Story of Little Sambo” which is widely considered to be racist.

During the 1970s, that fact didn’t seem to hurt the franchise much, as they had over 1,000 restaurants by 1979. Still, the name caught up with them and they ended up filing for bankruptcy in 1981 and closing all restaurants. There is one left standing, but they are changing their name, so Sambo’s will officially be dead.

Taco Viva

Before Taco Bell became the most popular option for quick Mexican food, Taco Viva was the place to go. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, this franchise grew from humble beginnings, and by the end of its run, there were 85 restaurants in 11 different states. Like Taco Bell, the sign and building was immediately recognizable, and it was a great place go to. However, like many other fast-food taco joints, it soon met its end.

Lums

It’s amazing how a major restaurant can grow from humble beginnings, and that’s exactly what happened with Lums. The restaurant began as just a single hot dog stand in Florida. However, with hard work and dedication, the company was able to grow by leaps and bounds and had 400 franchises across the country.

Their claim to fame was the frosted glass beers, fried seafood, and beer-steamed hot dogs. They were doing well during the 1970s but decided to sell the restaurants late into the decade. By 1983, all but one restaurant had closed, with the last one closing in 2017.

Gino’s Hamburgers

The Marriott company was busy during the 1970s. In addition to purchasing Howard Johnson’s, they also claimed Gino’s Hamburgers, which was started by a couple of NFL players in Baltimore. This was a very meat-focused restaurant and their most famous burger was the Sirloiner, which was two buns and thick sirloin steak.

Throughout the 1970s, the restaurant ruled the East Coast and they were on their way to the Midwest when they were purchased by Marriott, who turned all the locations into Roy Rogers restaurants instead. While the restaurant chain is not as popular as it once was, there are still two Gino’s Burgers locations in Maryland as of 2024.

Naugles

Naugles was another of the go-to Mexican food chain restaurants that started in 1970 and then gained steam during that decade and beyond. The chain started in Riverside, California, but they quickly began to expand to other states, from Nevada to Florida. The beginning of the end occurred when Naugles merged with Del Taco. By 1995, all Naugles were converted to Del Taco, and that was it for the popular chain.

Steak and Ale

One of the most beloved of the 1970s restaurants was Steak and Ale. It was an old-school-looking restaurant that served steak at a great price. Plus, they had an unlimited salad bar and tasty dishes, including the herb-roasted prime rib. Steak and Ale combined forces with another restaurant in 1976 and grew to over 100 locations.

As the restaurant headed into the 80s, the chain changed ownership many times, and that’s never good for business. Although there are no Steak and Ale restaurants left, you can still purchase a franchise restaurant today if you’re up to reviving the chain.

Burger Queen

New restaurant owners are always trying to get ideas from existing franchises, and that was the case for Burger Queen. It was supposed to be an unofficial combination of Diary Queen and Burger King, and it began in Florida in 1956. They served burgers, shakes, and fries. From the 50s till the end of the 70s, Burger Queen was doing pretty good.

Then, in 1981, they changed their name to Druther’s because they started also serving salad and fried chicken. They reached about 170 restaurants but then decided to sell to Dairy Queen. They converted the restaurants, and thus, Burger Queen is no more.

Rax Roast Beef

These days, Arby’s is one of the biggest restaurants around when it comes to the finest roast beef sandwiches. However, before Arby’s, there was Rax Roast Beef. The chain began in Ohio in 1967 and served the finest roast beef sandwiches in the state.

They were so good that they expanded to 38 other states and had over 500 restaurants. However, while the chain has mostly died, it hasn’t been completely wiped from the face of the earth — there are still five locations left.

Wags

Things were pretty crazy back in the 1970s when stores did things you just don’t see anymore. One of them was when the famous Walgreens pharmacy decided to launch its own restaurant chain. Since Walgreens is open late, they wanted to have a 24-hour restaurant chain where families could eat at all times of the day and night.

Then, when they were done, they could do some shopping in the drugstore. However, once again, Marriott struck and bought the restaurants. Eventually, Marriott decided to get out of the restaurant game, and when Wags couldn’t find an owner, the eatery went bye-bye.

Pup ‘N’ Taco

If you were a youngster living in California in the 1970s, you likely ate at a Pup ‘N’ Taco at least once. This was a tasty restaurant where you could get a variety of dishes, including tacos, pastrami sandwiches, and tostadas, among other interesting items. They also had a huge variety of very tasty hot dogs. 

The chain began in 1956, and by the 1980s, there were over 100 locations. However, it was around then that a newer restaurant, Taco Bell, was dominating the scene, and they were just too big. Pup ‘N’ Taco could not compete. Taco Bell ended up purchasing all of the Pup ‘N’ Taco locations in 1984.

Red Barn

The Red Barn restaurants were not hard to spot during the 1960s and 1970s. Most of the establishments looked like an actual red barn in the middle of a city atmosphere. The chain had meager beginnings in the 1960s in Ohio but soon grew by leaps and bounds. During the 70s, there were over 400 locations in 22 states.

Some of their signature dishes included their Barnbuster and Big Barney burgers, which were quite delicious. However, the chain met its demise like so many others do. During the late 1970s, the chain started to change owners and then it was sold a few times, and inevitably, the stores all closed by the 1980s.

Edenton

First on our list of adorable small towns in North Carolina is Edenton. This is a great place to visit if you love American history and fun along the coast. There are many old homes and buildings that were a part of our country’s story. Many of the buildings are open to the public. if you just want to see the outside of the homes, you can take a trolley tour and see them all. Bring your camera and take the time to visit the awe-inspiring Roanoke River Lighthouse that was made way back in 1886. It’s a marvel to see and it’s one of the only remaining screw-pile lighthouses left in the country. While you’re there, walk through the town and strike up a conversation with a stranger. There are many tasty restaurants with amazing cuisine. For lodgings, consider the Inner Banks Inn, which is a lovely bed-and-breakfast that oozes class and comfort.

Southern Pines

This lovely town is known for its lush forests and strong equestrian culture. You can walk down the streets of this quaint town and feel like you’re walking through a mystical forest. There’s also a lot to do here for the whole family. Start by visiting the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, where you can learn about the creative individuals of the area and catch one of the local events. If you love to golf, there are plenty of courses to try, including the Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club, which is one of the best in the country. Then, take a stroll through downtown. You’ll walk past many tasty restaurants and the best cafes. There are also many neat art galleries and shops you can stop by. You never know when you’ll find that trinket you always wanted. The town is also home to many lovely parks and walking trails, so you and your family can get exercise while exploring nature.

Laurinburg

This small college town has something for everyone. It’s home to St. Andrews University, so there is a youth in the community that provides a lot of energy. The people are very nice, and the town is lovely. The college also hosts fun events, like the Scottish Heritage Festival, which celebrates the town’s Scottish roots with a variety of fun activities and booths. Also, take the time to visit the John Blue House and Heritage Center. It’s a chance to get a first-hand view of the farm life that once dominated the town during the 19th century. Once the learning is done, head over to Lumber River State Park, where you can indulge in all of your outdoor hobbies. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, kayaking, or anything in between, you can do it here and have a blast. Add this town to your bucket list for sure!

Pittsboro

There are many adorable small towns in North Carolina near an area called the Triangle, which is made up of Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham. After you visit those areas, check out Pittsboro. There’s a ton of stuff to do in this nice town. Start by heading to Jordan Lake, where you can hike, swim, and relax on sandy beaches. Then, spend some time walking around town as you pass shops and businesses and meet the locals. You’ll notice the fantastic architecture of many of the older buildings. This town is also known for a lot of great meal options. Notable restaurants include the Fearrington House Restaurant, which is considered to be one of the best restaurants in the entire state. There’s also S&T’s Soda Shoppe, which is the home to some of the best ice cream treats and root beer floats in the world. The shop is actually a former pharmacy/soda shop, so it’s even cooler to visit. Pittsboro is a great town, so add it to your itinerary.

Lexington

The great thing about many small towns is that they’re often known for big things. In this case, Lexington, NC, is considered to be the “Barbecue Capital of the World.” Part of that is due to the annual Lexington Barbecue Festival, which is when the best cooks and restaurants in the town bring out their best dishes for everyone to sample. Try to book your trip around this time if you can. The town is also famous for its downtown district. You’ll stroll past incredible restaurants, shops, and galleries. Make sure to stop by the Candy Factory if you have kids. Top off your trip to this adorable town by heading to the Childress Vineyards. Parents can sample the wine if they wish. If not, you can still explore the lovely vineyards and the rolling hills. There are also many nice parks in the area, so check it out when you can.

Mount Airy

One of the must-see small towns on this list is Mount Airy, which was the inspiration for the town of Mayberry that was featured on the hit classic show “The Andy Griffith Show.” The town really takes the comparison to heart. That’s why, while you’re here, you can visit the Andy Griffith Museum and see many of the props and details that were used on the show. You can also drive around town in vintage cars like on the show. Plan your trip accordingly, and you can also visit during the Mayberry Days Festival, where you can celebrate everything about the show with parades, games, and more. However, there’s more to the town than that. You can also get your nature fix by hiking and exploring the nearby mountains. This area really personifies the terms, “quaint, adorable small town.”

Gastonia

This small town is a suburb of the larger Charlotte area, and there’s a ton to see and do. You get the best of all worlds here. There are things to see in the city and the nearby mountains. Take the chance to take a hike with your family and enjoy a picnic under the tall trees. One of the go-to destinations is Lake Norman, where you can go swimming, fishing, and more. There’s also a lot to learn here. Head to the Schiele Museum of Natural History, and you’ll learn about everything from space to the dinosaurs. There’s also the American Military Museum for history fans. The town is loaded with great antique shops and tasty restaurants. Walk down the main streets, and you’ll discover endless surprises. Just outside of Gastonia, you can also visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Carowinds amusement park.

Banner Elk

If you love spending most of your time outdoors, then one of the adorable small towns in North Carolina that you should add to your list is Banner Elk. Yes, there are many great restaurants and nice shops along the main streets. There’s also a ton of friendly people. However, the real fun is outside. Head to Wildcat Lake, where you can go swimming, fishing, or just lay out on the beach. The town also has opportunities to ride a zipline over nature at places like Sky Valley and Hawksnest. You may also feel inclined to visit the many vineyards in town, including Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, which has something for everyone over the age of 21. Bring your camera or pitch a tent here, and you’ll be entertained for days.

Wake Forest

This suburb of Raleigh is a little slice of heaven. Wake Forest has small-town beauty but also a bit of a spark, which is why so many people are visiting there and calling the place home. You can have a great time just walking down the streets and stopping in all the great shops and tasty restaurants. However, that’s just the start. Nature lovers can enjoy the fun that’s possible at the Falls Lake State Recreational Area and play in the water. If you love animals, you can also visit the Winterpast Farm and see the farm animals run and go about their daily routines. Kids will have a blast at Forest Ridge Park as they run and play on the various attractions. Travel a bit outside of the city, and you can visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the NC Museum of Art, Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and other fun attractions.

Sylva

Sylva is easily one of the best and most adorable small towns in North Carolina. There’s always something to do here. Check the calendar and plan your visit accordingly, because there is a ton of events that take place throughout the year. There is a series of events called Concerts on the Creek, where you can see local artists do their thing and enjoy the show. Other fun events include the Greening Up The Mountains Festival and the Hook, Line, & Drinker Festival. The town is also loaded with many great restaurants, including Innovations Brewing and LuLu’s on Main Street. Stop there for a bite after your day of fun. Sometimes, you can forget the plans and instead walk down Main Street. There are many great shops to check out, from galleries to bookstores, and you’re sure to find something that catches your fancy. This is a great town with a lot to offer, so check it out if you can.

Pittsboro

Located in Chatham County, Pittsboro is a great small town that’s popular among residents and tourists alike. The town has some of the safest neighborhoods in the area, and there’s always something new to see. There are parks where kids can play, and the whole family can take hikes and soak in the beauty of nature. Head down the main streets, and you’ll also see interesting restaurants full of tasty cuisine and shops of all kinds. One of them is sure to catch your interest. One of the town’s biggest attractions is the Carolina Tiger Rescue, where you can see real tigers roaming around and getting the care they deserve. Don’t leave without also checking out the Small Museum of Folk Art, which has some of the most interesting exhibits you’ll ever see. Don’t forget to strike up a conversation with someone in town because Pittsboro is home to some of the friendliest folks in the country.

Bryson City

Our final entry on this list of the adorable small towns in North Carolina is Bryson City. This is one of the best cities to try if you love gorgeous scenery and chances for adventure. This town is located next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can take your RV there, go camping, or rent a cabin in town, then head over to the park. While there, you can go hiking, tubing, whitewater rafting, fishing, zip-lining, horseback riding, and more. There are also opportunities for hiking right there in Bryson City. One of these areas is Deep Creek, which also has rapids and awe-inspiring waterfalls that you and your kids will love. The number of fun things to do in Bryson City is almost endless. From the historical sites to the great Smokey Mountains railroad, you can spend hours or days here and love every minute.

Meatloaf

Love it or hate it, every household had a meatloaf recipe that Mom patted out and baked for dinner at least once a week. Bonus points if it was served with mashed potatoes. Points deducted if it was too dry to choke down.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

While legend has it that this beauty of a dessert was first created in the 1920s, its popularity was sky-high in the 1950s. Moms everywhere coated the bottom of a pan with sliced pineapple and maraschino cherries, dumped some cake batter in, and baked it. The name comes from the triumphant finish when the cake is turned upside-down to reveal an impressive top layer of cooked fruit atop a fluffy cake.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

God loves a good casserole, amiright? And so did parents in the mid-1900s. Boomers in particular were subjected to this wildly popular dish made of canned tuna fish, egg noodles, some sort of condensed soup (a casserole staple), green peas, cheese and if you were lucky, some sort of crispy breadcrumb-type topping. It was all thrown together and baked. You were either a fan or you had to choke it down to join the Clean Plate Club.

Beef Stroganoff

With noodles and some sort of creamy gravy-like sauce being the key players in the 1950s culinary scene, most folks who came of age during that time will recall this dish vividly. The stand-out ingredient was beef. A dish with Russian roots, beef stroganoff was a cornucopia of beef and mushrooms dancing in a creamy sauce and dumped on a bed of egg noodles. Kids! Dinner’s ready!

Glazed Ham

Shifting gears, and perhaps blending a touch of the tropics into meal time, the glazed ham was a special occasion dish that many enjoyed on sacred holidays. Often decorated in a criss-cross design, the swine was then adorned with pineapple slices (again with the pineapple) or some other type of fruit — perhaps something of the citrus variety?

Ambrosia Salad

Dragging the pineapple back out of the pantry, it enjoyed another show-stopping run in any ambrosia salad recipe. This sweet side originated in the South, by all accounts, but eventually spread nationwide. Families everywhere enjoyed the taste of mini marshmallows amidst a sea of canned fruit and Cool Whip.

Beef Stew

This one hits a little close to home. It was on the nights my own mother made beef stew that I knew I’d be going to bed hungry. It appeared, however, that I was the odd kid out as my siblings enjoyed the dish, which was comprised of cubes of dry (SO, SO dry) beef, cooked (and mushy) carrots, peas, mushrooms, and potatoes in a thick, brown, beefy sauce. They wolfed it down while I tried not to dry heave. Perhaps my first lesson in how everyone is unique in their own way.

Chicken a la King

While beef stew at our house was not my favorite, chicken a la king, on the other hand, was a home run meal. Chicken, mushrooms, carrots, and peas in a creamy white sauce were poured atop either egg noodles, toasted bread, or other baked goods. Yes, it was as yummy as it sounds, and I still make it for my own family today.

Jell-O Salad

If Marcia Brady was ambrosia salad, then Jan was Jell-O salad. The two are similar, but one is slightly more complicated — and perhaps favored — than the other. Yes, Jell-O salad was a chilled gelatinous side, but where it lacked in marshmallows, it made up for in (wait for it) cottage cheese. Yes, a few simple ingredients, which also included whipped cream and gelatin powder, and you could have a side that wowed all who were invited to eat it.

Naptime

As the saying goes, sleep when the baby sleeps. This Detroit dad took heed, circa 1955.

Full House

This hospital maternity ward was packed with babies galore back in 1950. Note some babies are sleeping on their backs and others on their tummies.

Laundry Day

Though the earliest clothes dryer was invented in the late 19th century, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that they became more accessible for average Americans. Till then, clothing was clothesline-dried.

A Day at the Races

Forget the Kentucky Derby. At New Jersey’s Palisades Amusement Park circa 1955, babies raced … or crawled … for the gold. Parents enticed their tiny crawlers with toys as the contestants were cheered on by onlookers.

Snazzy Desk Design

Long before Smartboards and laptops, students learned via chalkboards and paper and pencils. Desks featured tilt-top capabilities, allowing for a more comfortable way to read and write. Daily learning supplies were contained within.

A Hole in the Plan

Today’s parents are urged to put their babies “back to sleep,” which is to say, have the babies sleep on their back to avoid suffocation from undeveloped neck muscles. However, in 1956, there was a novel idea of letting a baby sleep on its stomach (which many argue helps a baby sleep better) on a foam rubber pillow with holes to provide air and prevent suffocation.

Playground Fun

Well before padded rubber play surfaces and durable plastic climbing equipment, children climbed on metal jungle gyms and monkey bars, which were typically located on dirt, grass, or blacktop pavement.

Birth of Suburbia

Long before McMansion subdivisions with HOAs, suburban neighborhoods were sprouting up to provide family-friendly and affordable housing. Kids played freely with other neighborhood kids.

What Screen?

Though televisions had been invented and were becoming more commonplace, it wasn’t until the late 1950s that a majority of American homes had one. Before that, families gathered together and played games, read newspapers or magazines, or partook in hobbies, such as needlepoint.

The More Things Change…

Back in 1950, New York protesters opposed the closure of a childcare facility. Says one sign, “If Mom can’t work, we can’t eat.” Today argues that while we have adequate numbers of childcare facilities, the tuition cost makes them nearly impossible for many American families to afford.

Library Class

In this photo, circa 1950, a librarian shares a story with a captive audience of students during “library class.”

Teach Them Young

In this image, circa 1950, students learn the rules of the road as the teacher shows them various street sign shapes and explains their meanings. Note the notice in the background for “Bank Day” taking place the following day.

Shopping: A Family Affair

Grocery carts may have been invented in 1937, but the ones with the little cars attached that keep kids busy while parents shop were not available until well after the 1950s. Here, a mom looks suspiciously happy and her kids are remarkably well-behaved after loading up on groceries.

Social Media

Comic books have been a favorite reading selection of kids for more than a century. Here, some boys browse the options at a newsstand in 1955.

What ATM?

Long before the ATM was invented (which was in 1967, by the way), and still longer before online banking was a thing (the first online banking website launched in 1994), students pictured here participated in a “Society for Savings” program at their school, which taught them how to deposit and withdraw money.

Pre-Dance Moms

Abby Lee Miller wasn’t even born till 1965, which means these tiny dancers (and their moms) had a slightly less dramatic dance experience. Here members of La Petite Ballet Russe dance school in Burbank, CA, take to the barre in 1950.

Make Your Voice Heard

These little ones take their voting rights seriously when casting their ballot for the new mayor of “Tots Town” in New York City.

Dental Visit

And finally, sometimes there are some things that are timeless, such as dentist visits. Some kids love them, others not so much.

1. Social Skills

Those who have Asperger’s may struggle with social skills. They tend to have difficulty understanding facial expressions and maintaining eye contact. This can make them feel awkward and distant from others. Some children tend to play alone or have one particular friend. In addition, some children also do not respond to their names when being called and may seem as if they are ignoring you. They may also appear to not understand simple directions or questions.

2. Communication Skills

Furthermore, those with Aspergers may have difficulty understanding gestures, tone of voice, body language, and responding to natural conversations. This can also affect their speech where they have a robotic or monotone voice. They may also struggle to understand humor and sarcasm.

3. Repetitive Behavior and Change

In addition, those who have Aspergers tend to feel uncomfortable with change. A switch in daily routines and activities can be disruptive. When feeling uncomfortable, they may demonstrate physical repetitive behavior such as spinning, hand flapping, biting, or rocking.

4. Eating Patterns

Furthermore, some children may be quite picky when eating and drinking. They may only want to eat and drink the same type of food each day and are not willing to try something new because they are comfortable with what they know. They may also not eat foods with a certain texture. This is a sign to look out for because it is important to make sure that your child has a healthy, balanced diet.

5. Brain Development

Regardless that those with Asperger’s have communication and social challenges, they do have loving and caring personalities but may battle with empathy. Furthermore, they often exhibit average or above-average intelligence and have specific strengths in logic, memory, and problem-solving abilities. However, as previously mentioned, they may have difficulty expressing their own feelings and understanding others’ emotions.

6. Genetics and Family

Asperger’s syndrome has been identified as part of the autism spectrum disorder, and hereditary factors play an important role in the onset of this condition. Furthermore, research suggests that both parents can carry the gene, and many genes may contribute to the development of the syndrome. Another factor is that babies who are born before 26 weeks are at a greater risk of getting Asperger’s. There may also be a connection between children born to older parents; however, more research is needed.

7. Environmental Factors

In addition to genetic factors, certain environmental factors can also affect the development of Asperger’s. These can include complications during pregnancy or birth, drugs, alcohol, and even pesticides. 

8. Sensory Issues

Children with Aspergers may have sensory issues. They may feel uncomfortable when touched or sensitive to bright lights and loud noises.

9. Poor Coordination

Another sign your child may have Asperger’s is a lack of coordination; they often seem stiff and clumsy. They could also drop items, trip, and fall.

10. Limited Interests

Finally, children with Asperger’s have a limited imagination; they don’t play make-believe games and tend to focus on one topic that interests them. This may appear obsessive and strange to others. If you notice any of these signs, do not hesitate to speak to your doctor.

Howard Johnson’s

For a long time, Howard Johnson’s was one of the most recognizable restaurants in the country. This famous orange-roofed restaurant was everywhere, with over 1,000 locations across the country. There was a huge menu in each restaurant that had something for everyone, including fried clams and 28 ice cream flavors.

Sadly, though this was one of the most famous 1970s restaurants, they only lasted until 1979. That’s when Marriott bought the company, and they proceeded to shut down all company-owned Howard Johnson’s locations. Soon after, the franchise restaurants closed, and the rest was history. Most recently, the restaurant was made famous for being on episodes of “Mad Men.”

Burger Chef

If the name Burger Chef reminds you of McDonalds then that makes sense. After all, during its heyday, Burger Chef was the second most popular restaurant, second only to Micky D’s. Like its competitor, Burger Chef locations were all over the United States.

Their most noteworthy burger was the Big Shef, which was a double cheeseburger with special sauce. The company was eventually purchased by the company that owns Hardees. The chain started to die off in the 1980s, and the last Burger Chef restaurant closed in 1996.

Sambo’s

Sambo’s is one of the 1970s restaurants that doesn’t exist anymore, and that’s mostly because of its theme. The resturant was named after the character Sambo, and the walls were covered with Sambo artwork and decorations. The problem was the book the restaurant was based off of, “The Story of Little Sambo” is widely considered to be racist. During the 1970s, that fact didn’t seem to hurt the franchise much, as they had over 1,000 restaurants by 1979.

Still, the name caught up with them and they ended up filing for bankruptcy in 1981 and closing all restaurants. There is one left standing, but they are changing their name, so Sambo’s will officially be dead.

Taco Viva

Before Taco Bell became the most popular option for quick Mexican food, Taco Viva was the place to go. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, this franchise grew from humble beginnings, and by the end of its run, there were 85 restaurants in 11 different states. Like Taco Bell, the sign and building was immediately recognizable, and it was a great place go to. However, like many other fast food taco joints, it soon met its end.

Lums

It’s amazing how a major restaurant can grow from humble beginnings, and that’s exactly what happened with Lums. The restaurant began as just a single hot dog stand in Florida. However, with hard work and dedication, the company was able to grow by leaps and bounds and had 400 franchises across the country.

They’re claim to fame was the frosted glass beers, fried seafood, and beer-steamed hot dogs. They were doing well during the 1970s but decided to sell the restaurants late into the decade. By 1983, all but one restaurant had closed, with the last one closing in 2017.

Gino’s Hamburgers

The Marriott company was busy during the 1970s. In addition to purchasing Howard Johnson’s, they also claimed Gino’s Hamburgers, which was started by a couple of NFL players in Baltimore. This was a very meat-focused restaurant and their most famous burger was the Sirloiner, which was two buns and thick sirloin steak.

Throughout the 1970s, the restaurant ruled the East Coast and they were on their way to the Midwest when they were purchased by Marriott, who turned all the locations into Roy Rogers restaurants instead. While the restaurant chain is not as popular as it once was, there are still two Gino’s Burgers locations in Maryland as of 2024.

Naugles

Naugles was another of the go-to Mexican food chain restaurants that started in 1970 and then gained steam during that decade and beyond. The chain started in Riverside, California, but they quickly began to expand to other states, from Nevada to Florida. The beginning of the end occurred when Naugles merged with Del Taco. By 1995, all Naugles were converted to Del Taco, and that was it for the popular chain.

Steak and Ale

One of the most beloved of the 1970s restaurants was Steak and Ale. It was an old-school-looking restaurant that served steak at a great price. Plus, they had an unlimited salad bar and tasty dishes, including the herb-roasted prime rib. Steak and Ale combined forces with another restaurant in 1976 and grew to over 100 locations.

As the restaurant headed into the 80s, the chain changed ownership many times, and that’s never good for business. Although there are no Steak and Ale restaurants left, you can still purchase a franchise restaurant today if you’re up to reviving the chain.

Burger Queen

New restaurant owners are always trying to get ideas from existing franchises, and that was the case for Burger Queen. It was supposed to be an unofficial combination of Diary Queen and Burger King, and it began in Florida in 1956. They served burgers, shakes, and fries. From the 50s till the end of the 70s, Burger Queen was doing pretty good.

Then, in 1981, they changed their name to Druther’s because they started also serving salad and fried chicken. They reached about 170 restaurants but then decided to sell to Dairy Queen. They converted the restaurants, and thus, Burger Queen is no more.

Rax Roast Beef

These days, Arby’s is one of the biggest restaurants around when it comes to the finest roast beef sandwiches. However, before Arby’s, there was Rax Roast Beef. The chain began in Ohio in 1967 and served the finest roast beef sandwiches in the state. They were so good that they expanded to 38 other states and had over 500 restaurants. However, while the chain has mostly died, it hasn’t been completely wiped from the face of the earth — there are still five locations left.

Wags

Things were pretty crazy back in the 1970s when stores did things you just don’t see anymore. One of them was when the famous Walgreens pharmacy decided to launch its own restaurant chain. Since Walgreens is open late, they wanted to have a 24-hour restaurant chain where families could eat at all times of the day and night.

Then, when they were done, they could do some shopping in the drugstore. However, once again, Marriott struck and bought the restaurants. Eventually, Marriott decided to get out of the restaurant game, and when Wags couldn’t find an owner, the eatery went bye-bye.

Pup ‘N’ Taco

If you were a youngster living in California in the 1970s, you likely ate at a Pup ‘N’ Taco at least once. This was a tasty restaurant where you could get a variety of dishes, including tacos, pastrami sandwiches, and tostadas, among other interesting items. They also had a huge variety of very tasty hot dogs. 

The chain began in 1956, and by the 1980s, there were over 100 locations. However, it was around then that a newer restaurant, Taco Bell, was dominating the scene, and they were just too big. Pup ‘N’ Taco could not compete. Taco Bell ended up purchasing all of the Pup ‘N’ Taco locations in 1984.

Red Barn

The Red Barn restaurants were not hard to spot during the 1960s and 1970s. Most of the establishments looked like an actual red barn in the middle of a city atmosphere. The chain had meager beginnings in the 1960s in Ohio but soon grew by leaps and bounds. During the 70s, there were over 400 locations in 22 states.

Some of their signature dishes included their Barnbuster and Big Barney burgers, which were quite delicious. However, the chain met its demise like so many others do. During the late 1970s, the chain started to change owners and then it was sold a few times, and inevitably, the stores all closed by the 1980s.

8. Motor City Pizza Co.

Chalk one up for Detroit-style pizza right out of the gate. Motor City Pizza is a real winner, with its thick, rectangular crust and deep dish canvas ready for any kind of toppings you can imagine. Choose from pepperoni, cheese, supreme and all the other trusty topping standbys. With options like “Three Meat” and “Ultimate Meat,” or “Supreme” and “Ultimate Supreme,” Motor City proves it’s not here to play. Give the people options and a Detroit-size amount of flavor, and they will come. Find it at Wal-Mart, Costco, Target, Kroger and other big-box food retailers.

7. Home Run Inn

Step up to the plate — literally — and enjoy this winner, winner pizza dinner. While there are, in fact, Home Run Inn restaurants, you needn’t live near one in order to enjoy this perennial favorite pizza. The signature-style crust, described as “tavern-style buttery and flaky,” most midwesterners will agree this is a worthy top 10 contender in the frozen pizza space. There’s nothing over-the-top in the way of flavor options. Look for standards like pepperoni, sausage, veggie and the like, but big bonus points for the brand for providing an “inspiration” section of delicious toppers to garnish your pie. A real dinger, I tell ya.

6. DiGiorno Pizzeria Thin Hand-Tossed Margherita

You may remember the commercials from back in the day: “It’s not delivery. It’s DiGiorno.” That is the key indicator of what you can expect from this fan favorite. DiGiorno also leads the pack in terms of options … SO. Many. Options. Rising crust (pictured), stuffed crust, hand-tossed, thin crust, gluten-free, Detroit-style, classic … and those are just the crust options, which some people will argue is the most important part of the pizza. Regardless, the Pizzeria Thin Hand-Tossed Margherita pizza is a lighter alternative and features a thin stone-baked crust and is topped with Roma tomatoes, basil and four types of cheese. SO good!

5. Newman’s Own Thin & Crispy Sausage & Pepperoni

You don’t have to be the president of the Paul Newman Fan Club to appreciate his complete line of products and the philanthropic bent of the brand. But you do have to have amazing taste in frozen pizza to appreciate the beauty of the Newman’s Own Thin & Crispy Sausage & Pepperoni (Supreme being a VERY close second). Its thin crust is crispy yet understated at once. Piled high with Italian sausage and uncured pepperoni, this one is a real stand-out in the freezer section.

4. Tombstone Cheese Pizza

Some folks will fondly remember the classic Tombstone cheese pizza from their childhood. This pizza definitely conjures nostalgic feelings when you pop one in the oven. With plenty of cheese on a crust of the perfect width, you simply cannot go wrong with this pizza.

3. Totino’s

I realize these may be fightin’ words, but Totino’s is the pizza soundtrack of my youth. While I can no longer get my absolute favorite flavor — Mexican — at my local grocer, I still enjoy the supreme and triple cheese all the same. It’s a standout in the frozen pizza space, and it has staying power for a reason. Because it’s THAT good.

2. Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni

Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni is a pretty standard but nonetheless stellar frozen pizza brand, and it’s available at a very affordable price point. The crust is the perfect thickness, and there is just the right amount of cheese and pepp.

1. Screamin’ Sicilian Supremus Maximus

Alright, when you want delivery-caliber pizza cooked on the fly in the comfort of home and for a slightly less than delivery, the Screamin’ Sicilian Supremus Maximus is the only way to go. There is absolutely NO skimping on toppings. In fact, there is SUCH a bounty of meats and veggies atop a thick bed of cheese that they drop off onto your plate, leaving you with a great last bite as you scoop them up.

50. Whitefish, MT (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 15.5%
• Median household income: $69,919
• Total population: 8,098

49. Taos Pueblo, NM (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 16.5%
• Median household income: $36,597
• Total population: 1,422

48. Lake Lure, NC (Blue Ridge)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 17.7%
• Median household income: $75,259
• Total population: 1,575

47. Highlands, NC (Blue Ridge)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 18.0%
• Median household income: $55,573
• Total population: 1,140

46. Wolf Creek, UT (Wasatch Range)

Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 18.4%
Median household income: $137,813
Total population: 1,642

45. Kittredge, CO (Front Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 18.8%
• Median household income: $143,147
• Total population: 1,021

44. Clear Lake, WA (Cascade Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 19.6%
• Median household income: $94,755
• Total population: 1,157

43. Oakley, UT (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 19.7%
• Median household income: $119,231
• Total population: 1,744

42. Telluride, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 21.2%
• Median household income: $81,429
• Total population: 2,622

41. Kings Beach, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 22.3%
• Median household income: $50,220
• Total population: 2,589

40. Tahoma, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 23.1%
• Median household income: $83,971
• Total population: 1,071

39. Mammoth Lakes, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 23.6%
• Median household income: $80,795
• Total population: 7,253

38. Ketchum, ID (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 23.9%
• Median household income: $87,478
• Total population: 3,490

37. Midway, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 25.6%
• Median household income: $130,648
• Total population: 6,019

36. Somers, MT (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 27.1%
• Median household income: $54,466
• Total population: 1,037

35. Silverthorne, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 28.7%
• Median household income: $97,558
• Total population: 4,550

34. Truckee, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 28.9%
• Median household income: $107,423
• Total population: 16,784

33. Avon, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 29.1%
• Median household income: $85,817
• Total population: 6,115

32. Kingsbury, NV (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 29.4%
• Median household income: $74,424
• Total population: 1,920

31. Frisco, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 31.1%
• Median household income: $101,140
• Total population: 2,900

30. Hideout, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 32.3%
• Median household income: $73,472
• Total population: 1,066

29. Steamboat Springs, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 33.5%
• Median household income: $93,280
• Total population: 13,251

28. Pray, MT (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 34.2%
• Median household income: $104,512
• Total population: 1,017

27. Lakeside, MT (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 35.6%
• Median household income: $71,006
• Total population: 2,564

26. Tesuque, NM (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 36.0%
• Median household income: $56,250
• Total population: 1,123

25. Tahoe Vista, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 40.8%
• Median household income: $91,944
• Total population: 1,171

24. Sunnyside-Tahoe City, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 40.9%
• Median household income: $125,144
• Total population: 1,536

23. Dollar Point, CA (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 41.3%
• Median household income: $113,269
• Total population: 1,233

22. Edwards, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 41.4%
• Median household income: $89,399
• Total population: 10,721

21. Emigration Canyon, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 41.7%
• Median household income: $138,125
• Total population: 1,503

20. Jackson, WY (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 42.4%
• Median household income: $101,477
• Total population: 10,748

19. Vail, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 42.7%
• Median household income: $96,667
• Total population: 4,833

18. Big Sky, MT (Rocky Mountains)

Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 42.8%
Median household income: $94,176
Total population: 2,825

17. Genoa, NV (Sierra Nevada)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 44.7%
• Median household income: $116,250
• Total population: 1,013

16. Sun Valley, ID (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 45.2%
• Median household income: $67,386
• Total population: 1,383

15. Snyderville, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 47.2%
• Median household income: $135,132
• Total population: 5,730

14. East Basin, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 48.7%
• Median household income: $172,614
• Total population: 3,646

13. Aspen, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 49.1%
• Median household income: $94,338
• Total population: 6,952

12. Breckenridge, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 49.1%
• Median household income: $129,481
• Total population: 5,017

11. Summit Park, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 49.6%
• Median household income: $171,408
• Total population: 8,708

10. Wilson, WY (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 49.7%
• Median household income: $128,981
• Total population: 1,303

9. Crested Butte, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 50.6%
• Median household income: $67,625
• Total population: 1,434

8. South Park, WY (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 52.6%
• Median household income: $109,402
• Total population: 1,899

7. Snowmass Village, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 58.1%
• Median household income: $94,761
• Total population: 3,076

6. Blue River, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 59.9%
• Median household income: $150,074
• Total population: 1,238

5. Basalt, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 65.8%
• Median household income: $103,049
• Total population: 3,815

4. Mountain Village, CO (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 66.7%
• Median household income: $56,917
• Total population: 1,582

3. Park City, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 69.6%
• Median household income: $132,315
• Total population: 8,379

2. Moose Wilson Road, WY (Rocky Mountains)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 73.6%
• Median household income: $105,673
• Total population: 1,143

1. Silver Summit, UT (Wasatch Range)

• Homes worth $1,000,000 or more: 84.1%
• Median household income: $226,442
• Total population: 1,703

Meadowbrook, Alabama

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #248
• Best Suburbs to Buy a House in the State: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Housing
• Population: 9,338

Sitka, Alaska

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #6,983
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #19
• GradeA Ranking For: Diversity
• Population: 8,462

Corona de Tucson, Arizona

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #3,242
• Best Suburbs to Buy a House in the State: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Housing
• Population: 8,742

Cave Springs, Arkansas

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #225
• Best Places to Raise a Family in State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, and Families
• Population: 5,521

Los Altos Hills, California

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #986
• Best Places to Raise a Family in Area Ranking: #6
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools and Families
• Population: 8,441

Holly Hills, Colorado

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #75
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 2,801

Weatogue, Connecticut

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #942
• Best Places to Buy a House in Suburbs Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, and Families
• Population: 2,671

Pike Creek, Delaware

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #506
• Best Suburbs to Buy a House in State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Diversity
• Population: 6,975

Heathrow, Florida

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #300
• Best Suburbs to Live in the Area Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, Nightlife, and Diversity
• Population: 7,084

Tyrone, Georgia

• Best Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #668
• Best Places to Live in the County Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Diversity
• Population: 7,710

Maunawili, Hawaii

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #5,096
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Families and Diversity
• Population: 2,067

Rigby, Idaho

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #6,579
• Best Places to Buy a House in State Ranking: #3
• GradeA Ranking For: Housing
• Population: 5,097

Clarendon, Illinois

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #29
• Best Places to Raise a Family in America Ranking: #3
• GradeA Ranking For: Families, Public Schools, and Crime and Safety
• Population: 8,658

Winona Lake, Indiana

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #628
• Best Places to Live in the County Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 5,077

University Heights, Iowa

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #674
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 1,353

Westwood, Kansas

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #740
• Best Suburbs to Live in the State Ranking: #4
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, and Families
• Population: 1,829

Park Hills, Kentucky

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #624
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 3,159

Inniswold, Louisiana

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,250
• Best Suburbs to Live in the State Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Housing, Families, Nightlife, and Diversity
• Population: 6,236

Cape Elizabeth, Maine

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #1,160
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, Crime and Safety, and Nightlife
• Population: 9,519

South Kensington, Maryland

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #59
• Best Places to Raise a Family in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 8,371

Williamstown, Massachusetts

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #399
• Best Places to Live in the County Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 7,630

Huntington Woods, Michigan

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #155
• Best Places to Raise a Family in the Detroit Area Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Crime and Safety
• Population: 6,365

Falcon Heights, Minnesota

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #138
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, Diversity, and Nightlife
• Population: 5,232

Pass Christian, Mississippi

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,661
• Best Places to Live in the County Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Diversity
• Population: 5,802

Brentwood, Missouri

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #17
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 8,173

Whitefish, Montana

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #5,949
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 8,098

Chadron, Nebraska

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,639
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 5,255

Incline Village, Nevada

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #3,318
• Best Suburbs to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Families, Public Schools, and Nightlife
• Population: 9,163

Brookline, New Hampshire

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,283
• Best Suburbs to Raise a Family in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Crime and Safety
• Population: 5,659

Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #49
• Best Suburbs to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Families, Diversity, and Nightlife
• Population: 4,234

White Rock, New Mexico

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #713
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, and Families
• Population: 5,592

Great Neck Plaza, New York

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #45
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, Nightlife, and Diversity
• Population: 7,443

Rolesville, North Carolina

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #456
• Best Places to Buy a House in the Area Ranking: #2
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Diversity
• Population: 9,696

Valley City, North Dakota

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #7,366
• Best Places to Retire in the State Ranking: #3
• GradeA Ranking For: Nightlife
• Population: 6,558

Mariemont, Ohio

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #67
• Best Places to Raise a Family in the State Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, Crime and Safety, and Nightlife
• Population: 3,493

Fort Gibson, Oklahoma

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #1,860
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #3
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Diversity
• Population: 3,810

Cedar Hills, Oregon

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #1,444
• Best Suburbs to Live in the State Ranking: #3
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, Nightlife, and Diversity
• Population: 9,076

Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #3
• Best Places to Raise a Family in America Ranking: #1
• GradeA Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, Nightlife, and Diversity
• Population: 5,428

Kingston, Rhode Island

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,479
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #4
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 6,560

Pendleton, South Carolina

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #846
• Best Places to Live in the Area Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Diversity
• Population: 3,498

Dakota Dunes, South Dakota

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,740
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Housing and Families
• Population: 2,895

Signal Mountain, Tennessee

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #1,777
• Best Places to Retire in the State Ranking: #2
• A Ranking For: Housing, Families, and Crime and Safety
• Population: 8,833

Alamo Heights, Texas

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #89
• Best Places to Live in the Surrounding Area Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 7,417

Park City, Utah

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #2,356
• Best Places to Live in the County Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 8,379

Norwich, Vermont

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #1,235
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, Crime and Safety
• Population: 3,620

Innsbrook, Virginia

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #21
• Best Suburb to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, Nightlife, and Diversity
• Population: 8,699

Yarrow Point, Washington

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #557
• Best Places to Raise a Family in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Families, and Crime and Safety
• Population: 1,280

Star City, West Virginia

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #510
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, and Nightlife
• Population: 2,167

Kohler, Wisconsin

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #63
• Best Places to Live in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Public Schools, Housing, Families, Crime and Safety, and Nightlife
• Population: 2,142

Kemmerer, Wyoming

• Best Places to Live in America Ranking: #6,280
• Best Places to Buy a House in the State Ranking: #1
• A Ranking For: Housing and Crime and Safety
• Population: 2,640

In Conclusion

The top-rated small towns on this list are perfect to visit. Take a stroll down a quiet street, sip some delicious coffee in a quiet coffee shop, and get to know the small-town families in these towns. Who knows, you may decide to pick up and move to one of these top-rated towns. (Read 22 Historic Neighborhoods Where Houses are Less Than 100,00.)

What is a Tiny Home Community?

A tiny home community is similar to an RV park. It is a place to park a tiny home. Additionally, not all tiny homes have wheels, which means you can build your tiny home and place it on the community’s lot or rent it out in the community.

A tiny home will be a home that is less than 400 square feet (though there are larger models that work well for families.) A tiny home community may be an excellent choice for families who want to adopt a minimalistic and simplistic lifestyle.

Pros of Living in a Tiny Home Community

Like anything, tiny home living comes with a wide range of pros and cons, especially if you are living with a family. While it would be difficult for a rather large family (say, six or more people) to live comfortably in a tiny home, those with a smaller family can make it work.

When a family chooses to live in a tiny home, they may get to keep more of their income. This can make the price of living feel more affordable. Tiny homes are known to be more affordable than traditional housing.

Since the tiny home is small, living in one with a family encourages closeness and together time and allows you to prioritize your family. Additionally, tiny homes can be flexible, especially on wheels. This means that living in a portable tiny home allows you to pick up and travel nationwide.

Living in a tiny home with a family also will encourage your children to get outside more. There will be less space to play, meaning running outside to get exercise becomes second nature. Furthermore, since you can’t hoard much in a tiny home, living in one encourages you to purge and downsize, more naturally adapting to a minimalistic lifestyle.

Cons of Living in a Tiny Home Community

Of course, living in a tiny home also comes with some cons. It requires you to be more patient and flexible, especially if you are living there with children. Your organization skills must be impeccable or, at the very least, grown. You can adopt rules such as “a place for everything, and everything in its place.”

Plus, having to clean up often will help your children learn to fine-turn their clean-up skills.

Families may struggle to get alone time away from others, especially if needed. Parents may have to plan more intimate time together as well, given that there are not a lot of private spaces in a tiny home.

Can a Family Live in a Tiny Home?

A family can live in a tiny home; several families have proven this true. However, it takes quite a bit of dedication, work, and intentionality. Most tiny homes can comfortably fit two to four people. If you have more than one or two children, you may need to look for communities that accommodate or offer larger tiny home models.

Yet, for many, the call to minimalism and simplicity is well worth the sacrifices they make to downsize. Now, let’s take a look at 14 tiny home communities for families.

Lake Dallas Tiny Home Village (Lake Dallas, Texas)

• Average cost: $1,000 deposit, $700-$750 for rent

Lake Dallas Tiny Home Village is located in the city limits of Dallas. Its ease of location means that many amenities are available for its residents. Currently, the community has 13 lots that offer a one-year lease. However, there is a waitlist.

The rent for the lot is between $600 and $750 and includes the following amenities:

• Trash
• Mowing
• Use of the washateria
• Water
• Sewer

Electric, however, is separate. Rent requires a $1,000 deposit; however, it is returned once the lease is up.

Lake Dallas Tiny Home Village residents have access to several perks. These include the use of the courtyard and backyard. Furthermore, the backyard is equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. Additionally, there is a community garden and washateria. Close by are the town libraries, parks, and post offices.

Tiny Tranquility (Waldport, Oregon)

• Average cost: $650-$700

Tiny Tranquility in Waldport, Oregon, is a tiny home community for RVs and tiny homes that opened in June 2018. The community has six acres that fit 43 spots. Additionally, each lot is between 2,400 and 4,000 square feet, which allows room for one car.

Tiny Tranquility is two miles south of Waldport. Also, residents can rent a lot that costs between $650 and $700. The rent includes water and sewer hookups, Wi-Fi, and an accessible laundry facility.

One of the perks of living in this community is an ocean view for some homes. Furthermore, residents will have access to the following:

• Dog park
• Greenhouse
• Outdoor activity area
• Redwood commons
• Landscaping
• Large television room
• BBQ area
• Bonfire pits
• Community Garden
• Game and entertainment room
• Fitness area

Tiny Estates (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania)

• Average cost: Prices vary

Tiny Estates is genuinely a tiny home-living community. The average tiny home size is between 24 and 40 feet long and 8.5 to 10 feet wide. While a family of four and up may not be able to comfortably live here, those with two or three people may be able to make it work.

These Tiny Estates were created in 2018 and offer both short — and long-term stays. In addition, there are two communities, one in Florida and one in Pennsylvania.

Residents can bring their own tiny home if it meets the requirements listed.

Park Your Tiny (Mount Laguna, California)

• Average cost: $900

Park Your Tiny is an excellent tiny home community geared towards hikers. The residence encourages a sense of community and simplicity. Founded by brother and sister Melissa and John Block, they desired to create a place for those who love to be surrounded by nature.

Park Your Tiny offers six and 12-month leases, and the average cost of a lot is $900. Amenities included with rent are water, trash, and sewage. Electricity is separate, and residents must refill the gas tanks themselves.

If you reside at Park Your Tiny, you will be in the beautiful Laguna Mountains and close to the Pine House Cafe.

Harbor Point Estates (Southeastern Chicago)

• Average cost: $560 a month (not including tiny home rent or payment)

Harbor Point Estates is located in Southeastern Chicago and offers larger models of tiny homes that families may love. The homes are between 900 and 1200 square feet, and the rental starts at $1,500. The rent includes both the house and the lot. However, residents can rent only a lot for around $560 a month.

However, all the amenities are separate from rent except for garbage.

Harbor Point Estates come with a hefty list of community perks. Children can enjoy the playground. At the same time, families will have access to the clubhouse. Additionally, enjoy nature with the array of lakes, forest preserves, and hiking trails at your convenience. Furthermore, this tiny home community is pet-friendly and close to Chicago’s public library.

Acony Bell Tiny Home Community (Near Ashville, North Carolina)

• Average cost: $700 a month

Acony Bell Tiny Home Community offers yearly leases on 50 acres. Located near Ashville, North Carolina, near the Blue Ridge Mountains, this tiny home community is a nature lover’s dream.

At $700 a month, amenities include lot rental, water and electric hookups, sewage, standard area maintenance, and garbage and recycling. Residents are responsible for their own electricity and entertainment.  

Residents have access to many community perks while living at Acony Bell. These include a community garden, a chicken coop, a stream, hiking and biking trails, a stone community center, laundry facilities, and dining options.

Little River Escape (Cloudland, Georgia)

• Average cost: lot prices between $30,000 to $40,000 for purchase

At Little River Escape, you can rent a lot nestled on 50 acres. The lots sit along the Little River in a private gated community. Leases are available for five-year terms.

Rent includes wooded lots with a garage and a driveway. Tiny houses also may have a patio, natural landscaping, and utilities.

Residents will have access to the typical guest house and a pool. Additionally, there are many waterfront lots where residents can enjoy swimming, fishing, and hiking.

Whispering Aspen Village (Fairplay, Colorado)

• Average cost: Prices vary

Whispering Aspen Village in Fairplay, Colorado, is 30 minutes from Breckenridge and sits near the Mosquito Mountain range.

Within the community are 20 cabins, places for RV’s, and Tiny Houses with wheels. Additionally, residents can enjoy the clubhouse, game room, free Wi-Fi, and fully equipped kitchen.

Orlando Lakefront (Orlando, Florida)

• Average cost: $565 to $765

Orlando Lakefront is a bird sanctuary that has turned land into a tiny house community. In this community are 47 tiny houses. Orlando Lakefront is pet-friendly and takes care of the landscaping and community maintenance.

In addition, there is a boat dock and fishing docks where residents can enjoy the waterfront. The laundromat and community garden are open to all residents, and there is also a green park available.

Escape Tampa Bay (Tampa Bay, Florida)

• Average cost: prices vary

Close to I-75 and I-4 sits the Escape Tampa Bay tiny house community. It is secure and private, making it an excellent place for families. Amenities with rent include water, garbage, private decks, security, parking, and landscaping maintenance. Not included are the prices for electricity, propane, and cable.

Families of two to four can stay in a unit. It is a quiet community, however, with rules in place.

Residents of Escape Tampa Bay can enjoy washers and dryers, climate control, LED lighting, and full kitchens in their homes.

LuxTiny (Lakeside, Arizona)

• Average cost: $359 to $459

LuxTiny is on six acres near White Mountain. The community currently has 37 spaces, and residents can enjoy being close to Scott’s Reservoir and Rainbow Lakes. The homes range between 160 and 399 square feet. Therefore, if you have a small family, you may be able to comfortably live here. Additionally, the average lot size is around 3,500 square feet.

Community features in LuxTiny will include:

• Gazebos
• Grills
• Large walking path
• Greenhouses
• Solar panels
• Chicken Coops
• Community Garden

Escalante Village (Durango, Colorado)

Average cost: prices vary

Escalante Village is a riverfront mountain town near the Purples Cliffs. Additionally, it is 6,500 feet above sea level. There are 24 tiny home spaces within this community. Each space is around 20 feet to 40 feet deep. Additionally, each home is around eight feet to 26 feet deep.

There is enough room for two parked cars and a patio. Furthermore, rent includes recycling, internet, trash, electricity, sewer, water, and self-storage.

In addition, if you are a resident of Escalante Village, you can enjoy many perks. These perks include snow removal and landscaping, the ability to park close to the house, and a community garden.

WeeCasa (Lyons, Colorado and Rapid City, South Dakota)

Average cost: prices vary

WeeCasa has two communities: Lyons, Colorado, and Rapid City, South Dakota. In 2015, the neighbors of Lyons, Colorado, banded together after experiencing a major flood. As a solution, WeeCasa was built. It includes 22 homes and encompasses the feeling of simplicity.

WeeCasa offers nightly rates that can be extended. Therefore prices will vary.

Community perks include the ability to play lawn games and use the charcoal grills and fire pits. Additionally, residents have river access and free Wi-Fi.

Community First! (Austin, Texas)

Average cost: homes are reserved for those who are displaced from a home. Community First! takes applications through their website.

Community First! was a mission started by Mobile Loves and Fishes Outreach to provide for the homeless epidemic in their community. Currently, Community First! is home to 370 formerly displaced people.

Residents in this community have access to the common areas, laundry rooms, restrooms, and shower facilities. Additionally, there is an outdoor green space, chapel, park, and health clinic. Community First! continues to be a vital part of reaching the community in Austin, Texas, and continues to take applications for the community.

In Conclusion

Tiny home communities may seem like a fad, but as the price of living continues to rise, more and more families are beginning to turn to this alternative lifestyle. Having a place to raise your family while valuing simplicity and togetherness has been an excellent way for families to pivot their lives. Instead of worrying about making ends meet, those who choose this lifestyle find freedom financially and mentally.

Additionally, communities encourage getting to know neighbors, exploring nature, and adopting a different mindset than traditional living.

If you are looking for affordable and comfortable tiny home living spaces to raise your family, take a look at the ones on this list today. While the lifestyle of going tiny may come with a learning curve, many families find satisfaction after adapting to this alternative lifestyle.

Kroger

Kroger has over 2,719 stores that offer a variety of products, including its own store brands. This is an advantage for shoppers seeking budget-friendly options as well as premium goods and wanting to stretch their dollar further.

Discounts and Promotions

Next, I think Kroger is better because they often have promotional offers and sales events, which results in huge savings. Furthermore, in-store customers can find manager specials, which sometimes consist of seasonal or near-expiration products marked down.

Whole Foods

What sets Whole Foods apart is its large range of constant and organically sourced products. Shoppers know that the products they are choosing are of high quality and meet environmental requirements.

For Health-Conscious Shoppers

Whole Foods is the perfect grocery store to go to for those looking to prioritize their health. This store focuses on catering to wellness-minded people seeking unique superfoods, gluten-free products, and other health-conscious alternatives. And I have to admit that their sushi is one of the best I’ve ever tasted.

ALDI

Noted as an example of a no-frills store, this German family-owned retailer has over 12,500 locations. It often displays a variety of cut prices, such as hygiene products, food, toilet paper, beverages, and other household items. Many products are their own brands, making them a popular and affordable choice.

Services

Trader Joe’s does not have much of an online presence or delivery options. Many people prefer to shop online, seeing that it is more convenient. However, I love the fact that ALDI lets you purchase online through the new ALDI app, and you can choose to have your goods delivered or use the curbside pickup. With their online presence, you can view weekly ads, the weekly ALDI finds, and upcoming ALDI finds.

Wegmans

Founded in 2017, Wegmans has 111 locations. They are well known for their friendly service, customer satisfaction, quality, and variety of products. At Wegmans, you can appreciate consistently low prices and enjoy your shopping spree.

Services

Furthermore, you can shop online, pick up, or have your order delivered straight to your door. You can even get meal help and watch their on-demand webinars and learn how to eat like a pro, hydrate, and improve brain and sleep health. I must add that their ready-made meals and Gold Pan meals are impressive and very convenient.

Food 4 Less

Kroger currently owns this no-frills grocery store and has 101 locations. Food 4 Less is proud that in 2024 it raised $17,000 for cancer kids of San Joaquin County. Customers are pleased with how clean and well laid out the store is. They are also impressed with their affordable prices and how they call it their go-to grocery store to save money.

Cultural Foods and Services

Furthermore, you can find an array of cultural foods that you typically won’t find in any other store. They also have fresh organic produce at great prices that are well worth checking out. In addition, you can order online for collection or delivery, making it convenient for you to get on with your day-to-day routine.

Costco

The nice thing about Costco is that you can buy in bulk, stock up on toilet paper, packaged foods, and canned foods, and take advantage of exclusive deals. I also enjoy purchasing the Grass Fed Sirloin by Cuisine Solutions; the beef is juicy, and I can get a couple of meals out of the package.

Cash Back Rewards

I love places that offer rewards programs. At Costco, you get 4% on eligible gas and EV charging for the first $7,000 per year; after that, 1%. A further 3% on eligible travel and restaurants. 2% on other purchases from Costco.com and Costco. Finally, 1% on all other card purchases.

Walmart

Founded in 1962, Walmart has over 10,600 locations worldwide. Customers can appreciate their savings and enjoy high-quality products, as evidenced by their slogan, “Save Money, Live Better.” Their goal is for customers to enjoy saving money on daily items and live a better life.

Finding a Future

Furthermore, Walmart is proud to assist transitioning military spouses, military personnel, veterans, and National Guard/Reserves to find significant futures through opportunities in education, employment, and entrepreneurship. This wonderful news makes Walmart stand out as one of the best. You can find out more here.

Sprouts Farmers Market

To end our list, I went with Sprouts Farmers Market. They offer a wide variety of natural and organic foods that are sourced locally. At Sprouts, you will be able to receive excellent, friendly customer service, and stores are decently laid out and not cluttered.

What Can You Find?

Offering farm-fresh produce, you will be able to find products that will suit your dietary needs and preferences. These include organic, gluten-free, plant-based, keto, paleo, and non-GMO products. Sprouts Farmers Market is perfect for those who are health conscious. Furthermore, they too have a rewards program where you have access to exclusive deals, home delivery, and curbside pickup.

I must say I love Trader Joe’s, but even I admit these 8 grocery stores are better with their unique offerings.

Question

The Axis Powers consisted of which three countries?

Answer: Italy, Germany, and Japan

While other countries were at times associated with the name the Axis Powers, Germany, Italy, and Japan were the most influential. Smaller countries included Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary. Adolf Hitler was the leader of Germany, Emperor Hirohito was the leader of Japan and Benito Mussolini was the leader of Italy.

The Axis Powers formed as a way to expand territory at the expense of bordering countries. They claimed to want to defend civilization from communism, but their agreement (formed mostly between Berlin and Rome in 1936) played a large part in sowing the seeds of war leading up to World War II.

In contrast, the Allied forces were essentially the “enemy” of the Axis Powers. The Allied forces consisted mostly of China, the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain. Poland and France were also early members of the alliance, and the Soviet Union stepped in only after being invaded by the Germans.

Question

When the nuclear bomb was developed, what was the name of the project?

Answer: The Manhattan Project

The Manhattan Project was a super secret government program formed to create the atomic bomb. The results of the project had a profound impact on the end of the war and warfare since then.

The developers of the nuclear bomb lived in secret military bases in unknown locations with their families to protect them. The fruits of their labors include the two bombs dropped on Japan near the end of World War II, one in Hiroshima and one in Nagasaki. The two bombs dropped killed more than 100,000 people, not to mention the long-term effects of nuclear warfare.

Many claim the United States developed the nuclear bomb before another country had a chance to, and there are now international laws surrounding the use of nuclear warfare.

Question

What was the Blitzkrieg?

Answer: A Nazi Germany Military Tactic

Nazis used the blitzkrieg to quickly defeat enemies. they used infantry, tanks, air support, and artillery to create disorganization and psychological shock against their enemies. The strategy was to place offensive weapons at the front of the attack to keep soldiers occupied, then break deep into enemy territory while outnumbering them.

The German word blitzkrieg translates to “Lightning War” and this tactic helped Germany early in the war. It helped with the 1940 invasion of France and the 1939 destruction of the Polish Army. Elements of it exist in modern conflicts, but the foundation of the tactic traces back to the 19th century.

Question

When did World War II officially end?

Answer: 1945

This can be a tricky question because the war ended as different troops surrendered and leaders agreed to peace. From 1939 to 1945, the deadliest war in history raged in Europe, Asia, and the United States.

On September 2, 1945, United States President Harry Truman announced that Japan had officially surrendered. This was the same day Japan signed formal surrender documents aboard a United States Navy ship. The German Third Reich surrendered early on May 7, 1945, in northeastern France.

While the Germans surrendered long before Japan did, the United States engaged in an ongoing battle with Japan as its leaders continued to commit atrocities. The US government decided to drop the atomic bomb as a show of force to Japan, and after two bombings, they surrendered.

Question

What organization was formed after World War II to promote peace?

Answer: The United Nations

Formed in part to avoid another World War as countries rebuilt after a deadly, lengthy one, the United Nations (UN) has several specific goals. They promote human rights, maintain international peace and security, and keep things friendly between different nations.

51 countries founded the UN. The main bodies include the UN Secretariat, the International Court of Justice, the Trusteeship Council, the Economic and Social Council, the Security Council, and the General Assembly. Participating governments fund the UN.

Question

What is the name of the first battle where the German Nazis were defeated?

Answer: The Battle of Stalingrad

The German army and its allies moved from conquering European territory to the Soviet Union. They started with the city of Stalingrad in Southern Russia, and as they and their allies attacked, they were finally stopped by the Red Army, marking their first major defeat in World War II.

In November of 1942, Soviet forces encircled the Germans that were positioned in Stalingrad. The battle lasted until February 1943. The original German force consisted of 220,000 soldiers, while the soldiers who surrendered after the battle consisted of 91,000 forces, leaving Germany weak.

Question

How did the Allies trick the Germans before D-Day?

Answer: False Information and Campaigns

It’s hard to imagine a world where information isn’t ready at your fingertips at all times, but remember that it took weeks and even months to get reports from one continent to another. Many countries had no idea what was happening in concentration camps until soldiers uncovered the atrocities because there was no way to document and send it quickly. So using false information and campaigns was easier then.

Allied forces sent many dummy tanks and vehicles all over southeast England so Germany was closely watching the area expecting the forces to move there. Fake radio traffic also confused the Germans. This gave the Allied forces a bit of an advantage because while Germany knew there would eventually be a cross-channel invasion, they weren’t sure where it would happen.

Question

What’s the name of the trials where Nazies were tried after the end of the war?

Answer: The Nuremberg Trials

After World War II ended, Allied powers like the Soviet Union, France, Great Britain, and the United States joined forces to form an International Military Tribunal. Nazi German leaders stood trial from 1945-1946 for crimes against humanity, war crimes, crimes against peace, and conspiracy to commit these crimes.

While Germany had a huge army committing many of the war crimes associated with World War II, only 199 defendants stood trial in the Nuremberg Trials. 161 of those defendants were convicted and 37 received a death sentence. Leaders like Joseph Goebbels, Adolf Hitler, and Heinrich Himmler were unable to stand trial because they had already died by suicide.

Question

Which countries lost the most civilians during World War II?

Answer: The Soviet Union

Formerly known as the Soviet Union, this area split into different countries. During World War II, they lost around 19 million civilians. On top of that, they also lost 8.7 military members. To put that into context, German forces only had 5.3 million military casualties.

The Republic of China came in second but disputed how many civilians and military members they lost. Between the two areas, they account for more than half of the total civilian deaths from the war.

Question

What do we now call the Allied invasion of Normandy?

Answer: Operation Overlord or D-Day

Commonly referred to as D-Day, the military operation was the beginning of the end of the war and took unbelievable amounts of communication between the Allied powers. On June 6, 1944, sea, air, and land forces of the Allied armies completed the largest amphibious invasion in military history. The operation had the codename OVERLORD and included 7,000 ships manned by 195,000 personnel from eight different countries.

The Russian forces pushed from the eastern front while the other Allied armies pushed from the west, leading to the defeat of the German army. It’s estimated that 29,000 Americans were killed during the storming of Normandy and another 106,000 were wounded or missing.

Question

What was the major battle fought between the United States and Japan in 1942?

Answer: The Battle of Midway

The Battle of Midway took place almost six months after the Japanese ambush on Pearl Harbor. Japan’s goal was to remove the United States from the Pacific area so they could gain more power in the southwest Pacific islands and East Asia.

After days of fighting, United States troops forced the Japanese to retreat from the battle. Americans were prepared for the battle because they had learned how to break Japanese communication codes in 1942.

Question

What was the plan to help European countries improve economically after World War II?

Answer: The Marshall Plan

After the continent was ravaged by war, the rebuilding process began, with help from countries from all over the world. The Marshall Plan was created in 1947 by Secretary of State George Marshall and provided over $15 billion in aid to European countries over four years.

The Marshall Plan was designed to rebuild cities, industries, and infrastructure. This also helped the United States by removing trade barriers, fostering commerce between European countries, and providing a market for American goods to be sold.

Question

What policy was used to contain Communism after World War II?

Answer: Containment

The United States developed a strategic geopolitical foreign policy after the war to stop the spread of communism. Also known as the Truman Doctrine, it simply stated that the United States would provide economic, military, and political aid to democratic countries that were threatened by communist influences.

There are four parts to the policy of containment. First, block the Soviet Union’s expansion of power. Second, expose Soviet pretensions. Third, retract the control and influence of the Kremlin. 4. Foster destruction within the Soviet Union

Question

What was the German Air Force called?

Answer: Luftwaffe

Luftwaffe was Germany’s version of the Air Force and was tasked with defending Germany in all air matters. Created in 1935, the Luftwaffe was commonly believed to be the strongest air force in the world and it played a huge part in Germany’s blitzkrieg battle tactics.

Over three million men served in paratrooper, air defense, and air force units from 1939 to 1945. The Allied forces disbanded the Luftwaffe after claiming victory in 1946.

Question

Which famous American general led troops in the Pacific?

Answer: General Douglas MacArthur

General MacArthur notably served in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, and was one of the first servicemen to earn a five-star rank. He spent most of his life in the army and also served with the Phillippine Army as a field marshal.

He was given many military awards including the Army Medal of Honor, the Bronze Star Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the American Defense Service Medal.

Question

Which battle was fought in North Africa and was a turning point for the Allies?

Answer: Second Battle of El Alamein

The battle was fought between the Axis Powers and the British Eighth Army and prevented the spread of them into Egypt. This kept the Allied forces in charge of the Suez Canal and blocked forces from moving their invasion into the Middle East.

Question

What was the point of the Tokyo War Crimes Trials?

Answer: To Hold Japanese Leaders Accountable

In their effort to expand and take power over much of the Pacific, Japanese leaders committed atrocious war crimes and were held accountable during the Tokyo War Crimes Trials. They lasted twice as long as the Nuremberg trials and were created in part by General MacArthur.

The trial went on for 2.5 years and had over 4,300 exhibits of evidence submitted. Some defendants were found mentally unfit for trial while others were sentenced to death. Others were sentenced to life in prison.

Question

Which part of the French government collaborated with Nazi Germany?

Answer: The Vichy Regime

After France was conquered, the Vichy regime succeeded the Third Republic for a good portion of World War II. Also known as the French state, it was headed by Marshal Philippe Petain, the President of the Council.

The Vichy Regime collaborated with Nazy Germany in performing raids to capture Jews and other people considered undesirable.

Question

What did Nazi Germany call their plan to exterminate Jews?

Answer: The Final Solution

Nazi Germany’s leaders used the term “Final Solution of the Jewish Question” to speak of the mass murder of the Jewish people. Rather than encouraging Jewish people to leave Germany and move to other parts of Europe, it became a systematic annihilation.

Nazi leaders anticipated removing 11 million Jews from the heart as part of the “Final Solution” and succeeded in murdering six million. This was the final stage of the Holocaust.

Question

When did the Germans invade the Soviet Union?

Answer:

Germans invaded the Soviet Union in 1941 with Operation Barbarossa. This was history’s largest military ground invasion at the time, with thousands of aircraft and tanks, half a million horses, and almost four million troops involved. They advanced from the Gulf of Finland to the Black Sea across all of Eastern Europe.

Despite their efforts, German troops were unable to defeat Soviet forces, which was a crucial turning point. Russian troops were better prepared to fight in the rough weather conditions, but many German troops froze to death in the harsh winter of Russia.

Kirkland Signature S’Mores Clusters

• Price: $9.49
• Weight: 1.64 pounds (26.3 oz)

The Caramel S’Mores Clusters are without a doubt one of the best Kirkland Signature products. The chocolate coating is sweet and extremely soft while the caramel steals the show. The biggest downside to Kirkland Signature’s Caramel S’Mores Clusters is it’s hard to stop eating them.

A single bag has nearly 5,000 calories, so you’ll need to limit yourself. That being said, if you have a family, once a bag is open, everyoneis going to be snacking on these.

Jojo’s Organic Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Filled Bars

• Price: $9.99
• Weight: .975 pounds (15.6 oz)

Getting this out of the way, Jojo’s Peanut Butter Bars are not as good a “deal” as the S’Mores Clusters. The package is slightly less than a pound and they cost more. The bars advertise themselves as guilt-free, which you can decide for yourself.

Each bar has 180 calories and 13 grams of carbohydrates. The most important number is just 6 grams of added sugar. There’s also an emphasis on “clean” ingredients that are more limited than you’ll see from other chocolate bars.

Don’t expect to bite into one and feel like you’re eating a candy bar. With their lower sugar content, Jojo’s bars are less sweet, but they can still satisfy that chocolate craving.

Girl Scout Thin Mint Bites

• Price: $11.99
• Weight: 1.25 pounds (20 oz)

Like many Americans, I live in fear of the day my daughter brings home Girl Scout cookies. I know the house will soon be filled with Tagalongs, Samoas, and all the other treats that are almost impossible not to grab when each day.

So, it’s doubly temptingfor me now that Costco is selling bite-sized Thin Mints. The Thin Mints have 140 calories per nine pieces, and each serving comes with 15 grams of added sugar. To be sure, these are a treat you’ll need to enjoy in moderation.

My one suggestion: like Thin Mint cookies, they taste better after being stored in the refrigerator.

Simple Mills Chocolate Brownie Thin Mints

• Price: $9.69
• Weight: .88 pounds (14 oz)

Could something from Costco’s sweet treats aisle actually be healthy?The Chocolate Brownie Thin Mints from Simple Mills make a good argument. Each serving (12 things) is 140 calories, but there are only 6 grams of added sugars.

In addition, the ingredients are simple and clean. There’s a seed & nut flour blend, organic coconut sugar, tapioca starch, arrowroot, cocoa butter, Dutch cocoa powder, and cocoa extract. Simply put, there’s nothing artificial in these cookies. They’re a treat I like keeping around to give my kids.

Kirkland Signature Chocolate Almonds

• Price: $14.79
• Weight: 3 pounds (48 oz)

If you’ve been shopping at Costco for a long time you get to know the iconic Kirkland Signature products. Their selection of packaged nuts is a fan-favorite, and there are also nuts that have been covered in chocolate.

There’s not a lot to say about Costco’s Chocolate Almonds aside from the fact they’re a tremendousvalue. A large 3-pound package costs just $14.79 at my local Costco. They are an excellent item to buy before the holidays when family is over.

Nature’s Garden Strawberry Yoggies

• Price: $11.89
• Weight: 1.31 pounds (21 oz)

Here’s where I’ll admit I bought Nature’s Garden Strawberry Yoggies for my kids and they barely ever eat them. The reason for this is simple: I eat them.This is my most often consumed snack. The yogurt on the outside of the strawberries is delicious and melts right off in your mouth. Then the strawberry inside is real and lacks any of the artificial taste you find in many other strawberry treats.

Nature’s Garden also plays up the number of probiotic cultures in their Yoggies. I don’t know how much of that is marketing, but the simple fact is that these snacks are delicious and any health benefits are simply a bonus on top of their outstanding flavor.

Nature Valley Crispy Creamy Wafer Bars

• Price: $11.49
• Weight: 1.63 pounds (26 oz)

I’m not personally a fan of most Nature Valley bars. They’re a bit dry. The benefit of their Crispy Creamy Wafer Bars is they have a layer of creamy peanut butter in between wafers. For me, this addition makes all the difference in turning these into a snack I enjoy.

It’s worth noting that these bars only have 7 grams of added sugar per bar. If you have a kid without allergies, this could be a good snack to pack before or after sports or other activities.

Brookside Acai & Blueberry Dark Chocolate

• Price: $11.99
• Weight: 2 pounds (32 oz)

You’ve likely seen Brookside chocolates at checkout counters at other grocery stores. I think these chocolates are delicious, and enjoy some of the more “unconventional” flavors like acai.

Of course, the main benefit of buying these at Costco is the value. A 2-pound bag goes for just $11.99. Once again, this is a great treat for putting in a dish around the holidays if you have family in town.

Boba Tea Mochi

• Price: $8.99
• Weight: 2 pounds (32 oz)

This is an item that might not be common across Costco locations, but my local Costco carries it and they’re a fun treat. The individual mochis come in three flavors, Thai Tea, Milk Tea, and Match. My personal favorite is the Thai Tea, which has a little extra sweetness.

If you find this item at your local Costco and enjoy bubble tea, it’s worth picking up. They’re kind of a fun treat from time to time for my kids.

Walmart

Walmart is thelargest retailer in the world, so it’s no surprise that it’s a great place for all your holiday shopping. This store makes it easy to get all your holiday shopping done, whether you prefer to shop in-store or online. They also have other convenient options for shopping such as choosing their pick-up service or shopping through the Walmart app.

What to shop for

The best part about Walmart is you can get all your holiday shopping done there. Walmart is a great place to shop for your holiday decorations and ingredients for your holiday meals. They also have great deals on clothing and toys so you can purchase all the gifts you need for the family.

Hobby Lobby

If you visited a Hobby Lobby way before the holidays, you may have felt like it was Christmas in July. Hobby Lobby is notorious for putting out its Christmas decorations long before most other retailers. This means you can get some new decorations early and take advantage of sales as well.

What to shop for

Hobby Lobby is one of the best places to shop for all your Christmas and other holiday decorations, especially if you want to get your shopping done before December. If you’re looking for gifts for the family, Hobby Lobby also has quality home decor items, craft kits, and other gifts for your loved ones.

World Market

World Market is a specialty retail store that has about 245 locations across the country. It’s a fun place to shop whether you’re looking for unique furniture or a bottle of wine to bring to a holiday party. This retailer is most known for their decor, outdoor items, and specialty food and drinks.

What to shop for

If you’re holiday shopping at World Market, you’re bound to find some interesting gifts and food items. World Market is best for shopping for higher-end holiday decor, fun gifts for the family, or treats for a holiday dinner or party. They also have essentials for Christmas and New Year’s.

Michaels

Michaels is a retail chain known for their arts and crafts supplies. However, they also sell other items at Michaels that makes the store a great place for holiday shopping. This time of year, Michael’s is one of the top places to find holiday decor and even gifts for the family.

What to shop for

Michaels is a great place to shop for craft supplies and holiday decor. You’ll find some of the most beautiful decorations and ornaments at this retail store. They also have unique gifts for everyone on your list. If you have kids who love crafts, they have plenty of activity kits and gift sets for young artists.

Costco

Costco is one of the top wholesale stores and anyone who has a Costco membership knows they have incredible deals year-round. This is also true around the holidays when they start to put out their toys and decorations. Costco is one of the stores you don’t want to miss when you’re holiday shopping.

What to shop for

Costco has some of the best deals out there around the holidays. Although you might usually buy your groceries at Costco, they also have deals on many holiday items. It’s a great place to buy holiday decorations, toys for the kids, or books for the whole family.

HomeGoods

HomeGoods is the ultimate home decor store with many wonderful decor options available during the holidays. Browsing through HomeGoods on any day is a treat, but it’s even more fun this time of year. This retail store is home to some of the most beautiful wreaths, place settings, and other holiday essentials.

What to shop for

If you’re looking to upgrade your holiday decor this year, stop by HomeGoods for top-quality seasonal items. HomeGoods is one of the best places to shop for elegant and stylish home decor, especially around the holidays. Additionally, they have beautiful gift sets if you’re looking for an easy gift for someone on your list.

Marshalls

Marshalls is owned by the same company as HomeGoods but is a retail store more focused on clothing, shoes, and accessories. At this retailer, you’ll also find some home decor items and gift sets.

What to shop for

Marshalls sells many name-brand clothing, shoes, and accessories but at a fraction of the cost compared to what you would pay elsewhere. If you’re shopping for a new outfit for yourself or someone on your list, Marshalls is the place to go. They also have a great selection of items for kids and gift sets for the holidays.

TJ Maxx

Like Marshalls, TJ Maxx is another store under the same company as HomeGoods. TJ Maxx has a wide selection of clothing, shoes, beauty items, and holiday gifts. They have great sales and a significant amount of clearance items this time of year, making it a fun and affordable place to shop.

What to shop for

If anyone on your list could use some new clothing or accessories, stop by TJ Maxx for top-quality clothing that’s more affordable than what you’ll find at a department store. TJ Maxx also has a vast array of holiday decor items and even holiday accessories for your pet.

The Food Court

Yes, the samples at Costco are tasty, but if you’re really hungry, stop by the world-famous food court. There are many tasty options that you can enjoy for lunch. The best part is that all of the food is very affordable. It’s so good that many Costco members make it a point to go there for lunch.

Why You Need to Check it Out

The food court is truly one of the best sections of Costco. Stop for a slice of cheese or pepperoni pizza. Costco is really famous for its $1.50 all-beef hot dog combo. They also have sandwiches, pies, desserts, and more. You could find yourself going there for lunch and dinner.

The Employee Lounge

No, you can’t walk into the employee lounge. However, one of the most unique aspects of shopping at Costco is the happy and helpful staff members that you’ll see as you go down the aisles. You’ll see them when you ask for stock when you check out the register, and everywhere else you go.

Why You Need to Check Them Out

It really is worth it to get a Costco membership, if only for the helpful employees. The staff at Costco is paid fairly well, and they get great benefits, including a suitable 401k and extensive health insurance, so they’re happy to be at work, and they show it. You won’t see that everywhere else.

The Customer Service Desk

One of the most unique parts of Costco is the customer service team, especially when you visit the returns section. The product return guidelines are very generous, and you can bring almost anything back, even if it wasn’t broken. They’ll take it back even if you just don’t like it.

Why You Need to Check it Out

This is one of the reasons why it’s worth signing up for a Costco membership. You won’t believe how generous they really are. Just keep in mind that you can’t bring back certain items, like many electronics and alcohol products. Just use your common sense when bringing something back.

The Gas Station

Another one of the best sections of Costco is the gas station. It’s another one of the perks that you get to enjoy as a member. The gas is good, and best of all, it’s affordable. No matter what is going on with the economy. You can count on them.

Why You Need to Check it Out

You need to check out the gas station at Costco. The gas is so affordable that the company actually loses money most of the time. They’re willing to do that because they know that many people will join the club just to get the gas. So it’s a win-win for everyone.

Electronics Section

Next time you’re there, head to another one of the best sections of Costco, which is the electronics section. They have everything a household could need, from computers to tablets to cell phone accessories. You could spend hours walking around the electronics section. Just try not to leave with a cart full of new tech.

Why You Need to Check it Out

Possibly the best thing about the electronics section is that they have the newest gadgets, so you’re always staying ahead of the trends. Plus, you can look at and try many of the electronics so you can get a true feeling of whether it’s right for you. Costco also has a great selection of affordable televisions.

The Desserts Section

One of the great perks of Costco is the desserts section. They have many incredible desserts from which to choose. There are cakes, cookies, and frozen treats that will take your breath away and have you coming back for more.

Why You Need to Check it Out

If you’re new to Costco, there are several desserts that you should try. Some are exclusive, like the Kirkland signature ice cream bars. You should also try the tasty Oreo frozen sandwiches; they are truly life-changing. They also sell huge Reese’s frozen ice cream dessert cups and much more.

The Clothing Section

Many people associate Costco with food, but you could also go there for a full wardrobe for you and the kids. The clothing is very affordable, and there’s something there for all sizes and seasons.

Why You Need to Check it Out

You’ll be stunned at how much Costco offers in the clothing section. There are shirts, pants, slippers, swimwear, activewear, shoes, dressware, and more. They also have a large selection of luggage and backpacks, so you can bring your attire from place to place.

The Floral Section

Finally, another one of the best sections of Costco is also one of the most forgotten about, and it’s the floral section. If you need a gift for a loved one, stop by the floral section. It’s perfect for dates, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and any other last-minute occasion.

Why You Need to Check it Out

What does the floral section offer, you ask? They have everything a typical flower shop would have. There are bouquets, flower centerpieces, garlands, and special arrangements. Plus, they sell flowers you can’t get everywhere else, from hydrangeas to orange roses. If it’s in season, there’s a good chance it’s at Costco.

Question

The Axis Powers consisted of which three countries?

Answer: Italy, Germany, and Japan

While other countries were at times associated with the name the Axis Powers, Germany, Italy, and Japan were the most influential. Smaller countries included Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary. Adolf Hitler was the leader of Germany, Emperor Hirohito was the leader of Japan and Benito Mussolini was the leader of Italy.

The Axis Powers formed as a way to expand territory at the expense of bordering countries. They claimed to want to defend civilization from communism, but their agreement (formed mostly between Berlin and Rome in 1936) played a large part in sowing the seeds of war leading up to World War II.

In contrast, the Allied forces were essentially the “enemy” of the Axis Powers. The Allied forces consisted mostly of China, the United States, the Soviet Union, and Great Britain. Poland and France were also early members of the alliance, and the Soviet Union stepped in only after being invaded by the Germans.

Question

When the nuclear bomb was developed, what was the name of the project?

Answer: The Manhattan Project

The Manhattan Project was a super secret government program formed to create the atomic bomb. The results of the project had a profound impact on the end of the war and warfare since then.

The developers of the nuclear bomb lived in secret military bases in unknown locations with their families to protect them. The fruits of their labors include the two bombs dropped on Japan near the end of World War II, one in Hiroshima and one in Nagasaki. The two bombs dropped killed more than 100,000 people, not to mention the long-term effects of nuclear warfare.

Many claim the United States developed the nuclear bomb before another country had a chance to, and there are now international laws surrounding the use of nuclear warfare.

Question

What was the Blitzkrieg?

Answer: A Nazi Germany Military Tactic

Nazis used the blitzkrieg to quickly defeat enemies. they used infantry, tanks, air support, and artillery to create disorganization and psychological shock against their enemies. The strategy was to place offensive weapons at the front of the attack to keep soldiers occupied, then break deep into enemy territory while outnumbering them.

The German word blitzkrieg translates to “Lightning War” and this tactic helped Germany early in the war. It helped with the 1940 invasion of France and the 1939 destruction of the Polish Army. Elements of it exist in modern conflicts, but the foundation of the tactic traces back to the 19th century.

Question

When did World War II officially end?

Answer: 1945

This can be a tricky question because the war ended as different troops surrendered and leaders agreed to peace. From 1939 to 1945, the deadliest war in history raged in Europe, Asia, and the United States.

On September 2, 1945, United States President Harry Truman announced that Japan had officially surrendered. This was the same day Japan signed formal surrender documents aboard a United States Navy ship. The German Third Reich surrendered early on May 7, 1945, in northeastern France.

While the Germans surrendered long before Japan did, the United States engaged in an ongoing battle with Japan as its leaders continued to commit atrocities. The US government decided to drop the atomic bomb as a show of force to Japan, and after two bombings, they surrendered.

Question

What organization was formed after World War II to promote peace?

Answer: The United Nations

Formed in part to avoid another World War as countries rebuilt after a deadly, lengthy one, the United Nations (UN) has several specific goals. They promote human rights, maintain international peace and security, and keep things friendly between different nations.

51 countries founded the UN. The main bodies include the UN Secretariat, the International Court of Justice, the Trusteeship Council, the Economic and Social Council, the Security Council, and the General Assembly. Participating governments fund the UN.

Question

What is the name of the first battle where the German Nazis were defeated?

Answer: The Battle of Stalingrad

The German army and its allies moved from conquering European territory to the Soviet Union. They started with the city of Stalingrad in Southern Russia, and as they and their allies attacked, they were finally stopped by the Red Army, marking their first major defeat in World War II.

In November of 1942, Soviet forces encircled the Germans that were positioned in Stalingrad. The battle lasted until February 1943. The original German force consisted of 220,000 soldiers, while the soldiers who surrendered after the battle consisted of 91,000 forces, leaving Germany weak.

Question

How did the Allies trick the Germans before D-Day?

Answer: False Information and Campaigns

It’s hard to imagine a world where information isn’t ready at your fingertips at all times, but remember that it took weeks and even months to get reports from one continent to another. Many countries had no idea what was happening in concentration camps until soldiers uncovered the atrocities because there was no way to document and send it quickly. So using false information and campaigns was easier then.

Allied forces sent many dummy tanks and vehicles all over southeast England so Germany was closely watching the area expecting the forces to move there. Fake radio traffic also confused the Germans. This gave the Allied forces a bit of an advantage because while Germany knew there would eventually be a cross-channel invasion, they weren’t sure where it would happen.

Question

What’s the name of the trials where Nazies were tried after the end of the war?

Answer: The Nuremberg Trials

After World War II ended, Allied powers like the Soviet Union, France, Great Britain, and the United States joined forces to form an International Military Tribunal. Nazi German leaders stood trial from 1945-1946 for crimes against humanity, war crimes, crimes against peace, and conspiracy to commit these crimes.

While Germany had a huge army committing many of the war crimes associated with World War II, only 199 defendants stood trial in the Nuremberg Trials. 161 of those defendants were convicted and 37 received a death sentence. Leaders like Joseph Goebbels, Adolf Hitler, and Heinrich Himmler were unable to stand trial because they had already died by suicide.

Question

Which countries lost the most civilians during World War II?

Answer: The Soviet Union

Formerly known as the Soviet Union, this area split into different countries. During World War II, they lost around 19 million civilians. On top of that, they also lost 8.7 military members. To put that into context, German forces only had 5.3 million military casualties.

The Republic of China came in second but disputed how many civilians and military members they lost. Between the two areas, they account for more than half of the total civilian deaths from the war.

Question

What do we now call the Allied invasion of Normandy?

Answer: Operation Overlord or D-Day

Commonly referred to as D-Day, the military operation was the beginning of the end of the war and took unbelievable amounts of communication between the Allied powers. On June 6, 1944, sea, air, and land forces of the Allied armies completed the largest amphibious invasion in military history. The operation had the codename OVERLORD and included 7,000 ships manned by 195,000 personnel from eight different countries.

The Russian forces pushed from the eastern front while the other Allied armies pushed from the west, leading to the defeat of the German army. It’s estimated that 29,000 Americans were killed during the storming of Normandy and another 106,000 were wounded or missing.

Question

What was the major battle fought between the United States and Japan in 1942?

Answer: The Battle of Midway

The Battle of Midway took place almost six months after the Japanese ambush on Pearl Harbor. Japan’s goal was to remove the United States from the Pacific area so they could gain more power in the southwest Pacific islands and East Asia.

After days of fighting, United States troops forced the Japanese to retreat from the battle. Americans were prepared for the battle because they had learned how to break Japanese communication codes in 1942.

Question

What was the plan to help European countries improve economically after World War II?

Answer: The Marshall Plan

After the continent was ravaged by war, the rebuilding process began, with help from countries from all over the world. The Marshall Plan was created in 1947 by Secretary of State George Marshall and provided over $15 billion in aid to European countries over four years.

The Marshall Plan was designed to rebuild cities, industries, and infrastructure. This also helped the United States by removing trade barriers, fostering commerce between European countries, and providing a market for American goods to be sold.

Question

What policy was used to contain Communism after World War II?

Answer: Containment

The United States developed a strategic geopolitical foreign policy after the war to stop the spread of communism. Also known as the Truman Doctrine, it simply stated that the United States would provide economic, military, and political aid to democratic countries that were threatened by communist influences.

There are four parts to the policy of containment. First, block the Soviet Union’s expansion of power. Second, expose Soviet pretensions. Third, retract the control and influence of the Kremlin. 4. Foster destruction within the Soviet Union

Question

What was the German Air Force called?

Answer: Luftwaffe

Luftwaffe was Germany’s version of the Air Force and was tasked with defending Germany in all air matters. Created in 1935, the Luftwaffe was commonly believed to be the strongest air force in the world and it played a huge part in Germany’s blitzkrieg battle tactics.

Over three million men served in paratrooper, air defense, and air force units from 1939 to 1945. The Allied forces disbanded the Luftwaffe after claiming victory in 1946.

Question

Which famous American general led troops in the Pacific?

Answer: General Douglas MacArthur

General MacArthur notably served in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War, and was one of the first servicemen to earn a five-star rank. He spent most of his life in the army and also served with the Phillippine Army as a field marshal.

He was given many military awards including the Army Medal of Honor, the Bronze Star Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the American Defense Service Medal.

Question

Which battle was fought in North Africa and was a turning point for the Allies?

Answer: Second Battle of El Alamein

The battle was fought between the Axis Powers and the British Eighth Army and prevented the spread of them into Egypt. This kept the Allied forces in charge of the Suez Canal and blocked forces from moving their invasion into the Middle East.

Question

What was the point of the Tokyo War Crimes Trials?

Answer: To Hold Japanese Leaders Accountable

In their effort to expand and take power over much of the Pacific, Japanese leaders committed atrocious war crimes and were held accountable during the Tokyo War Crimes Trials. They lasted twice as long as the Nuremberg trials and were created in part by General MacArthur.

The trial went on for 2.5 years and had over 4,300 exhibits of evidence submitted. Some defendants were found mentally unfit for trial while others were sentenced to death. Others were sentenced to life in prison.

Question

Which part of the French government collaborated with Nazi Germany?

Answer: The Vichy Regime

After France was conquered, the Vichy regime succeeded the Third Republic for a good portion of World War II. Also known as the French state, it was headed by Marshal Philippe Petain, the President of the Council.

The Vichy Regime collaborated with Nazy Germany in performing raids to capture Jews and other people considered undesirable.

Question

What did Nazi Germany call their plan to exterminate Jews?

Answer: The Final Solution

Nazi Germany’s leaders used the term “Final Solution of the Jewish Question” to speak of the mass murder of the Jewish people. Rather than encouraging Jewish people to leave Germany and move to other parts of Europe, it became a systematic annihilation.

Nazi leaders anticipated removing 11 million Jews from the heart as part of the “Final Solution” and succeeded in murdering six million. This was the final stage of the Holocaust.

Question

When did the Germans invade the Soviet Union?

Answer:

Germans invaded the Soviet Union in 1941 with Operation Barbarossa. This was history’s largest military ground invasion at the time, with thousands of aircraft and tanks, half a million horses, and almost four million troops involved. They advanced from the Gulf of Finland to the Black Sea across all of Eastern Europe.

Despite their efforts, German troops were unable to defeat Soviet forces, which was a crucial turning point. Russian troops were better prepared to fight in the rough weather conditions, but many German troops froze to death in the harsh winter of Russia.

All-Occasion Sprinkle

Home bakers, toss a bag of Trader Joe’s All-Occasion Sprinkle into your cart at your next visit. Perfect on everything from cupcakes to pancakes, these sweet toppers are free of hydrogenated oils and artificial flavors. And the vibrant spring colors come from fruit juice, veggie juice and spirulina extract. Find them for $1.99.

Caesar Salad With Salmon

For a quick grab-and-go lunch or dinner with a healthy bent, TJ’s new Caesar Salad with Salmon delivers. Chopped kale and Romaine lettuce form a crisp foundation. Add in the Parmesan crisps and a generous serving of grilled salmon and top with Romano Caesar dressing, and you have a delightful meal. Find it for $6.99.

Gluten-Free Pizza Dough

Those who live gluten-free can now enjoy DIY pizza night thanks to Trader Joe’s new gluten-free pizza dough. Ingredients include tapioca starch, rice flour, and potato starch and not an ounce of gluten. Top with sauce, cheese, and any of your favorite topics for the perfect at-home meal the whole family will love. Get a 16-oz package for $3.99.

Shrimp Scampi

Enjoy a decadent, restaurant-style meal at home with the new frozen Shrimp Scampi by Trader Joe’s. Juicy shrimp are doused in a flavorful combo of garlic, lemon, butter, and white wine. This Italian meal can be cooked on the stovetop or in the oven and brings a touch of elegance to your table for an affordable $8.99.

Jumeokbap

Enjoy an authentic Korean meal with Trader Joe’s new Jumeokbap, a vegan take on a traditional dish. These tasteful rice balls feature plant-based bulgogi and deliciously flavored veggies. It’s a hand-held meal that can serve as a meal on its own or as a tasty snack or side. Get a package for $4.99.

Freeze-Dried Raspberries

Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go snack or something tasty to toss onto your bowl of oatmeal, the new freeze-dried raspberries at Trader Joe’s are sheer perfection. Colorful and sweet, this tasty treat delivers the perfect tart punch! Get a 1.2-ounce resealable bag for $3.99.

Potato Salad

Whether you’re attending a potluck or simply want a quick-and-easy side for your backyard barbecue, a container of the new potato salad at Trader Joe’s is the perfect option. Made with potatoes, diced celery, hard-boiled eggs, mustard, mayo, and a dash of horseradish, this delightfully tangy dish is a classic and will quickly become your family’s favorite. Get a 16-oz container for $4.99.

Vanilla Cookie Thins

Sweets fans, rejoice! This newest flavor of Trader Joe’s cookie thins is a welcome addition. These vanilla cookie thins feature vanilla bean flecks and are both dainty and tasty at once. Enjoy them for dessert, dipped in your coffee, or any way your heart desires. Find them for $4.49.

Belgian Truffle Ballotin Box

Straight out of Belgium, this assortment of eight different truffles comes in a neatly packed Ballotin box. Available in select stores at the holidays and during springtime, look for flavors like dark chocolate ganache, milk chocolate caramel, white hazelnut, and many more. Get a box for $3.99.

Lemon Flower Cookies

Take a trip back to your childhood with this new shortbread cooking with a lemon jam center. These lemon flower cookies, named so for their flowery shape, are a sweet treat for an afternoon snack or an after-dinner dessert. Get a pack for $5.99.

Cal Pressed Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Kick your olive oil game up a notch with the new Cal Pressed organic extra virgin olive oil at Trader Joe’s. Made with California-sourced olives, fruity notes with a hint of pepper are the perfect blend for cooking or even dipping a crusty hunk of bread. Get a 16.9-oz bottle for $7.99.

Eureka Springs

First on our list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Eureka Springs. The town gets its name from the fact that it’s built around natural springs, so there’s a lot of gorgeous greenery and beauty to behold. Walk around town, and you’ll also see the wonderful historic district, which is home to old and beautiful buildings, including the Basin Park Hotel, the Palace Bath House, and more.

Of course, there are also many lovely shops and stores to visit. While you walk, don’t forget to check out the marvelous architecture of the Throncrown Chapel. You can conclude your visit by heading to the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. That’s where you can get a big thrill by walking through the natural habitat of bears and big cats. Don’t worry, it’s safe and it’s a lot of fun.

Van Buren

Though not as small as some of the other quaint towns on this list, Van Buren is still a great place to visit if you find yourself in the Fort Smith metropolitan area of Arkansas. Take your walking shoes because there’s a lot to see here. Stroll through the Van Buren Historic District, and you’ll be amazed at how much there is to do.

In addition to magical shops and restaurants, there are also several museums and landmark museums that are stunning architectural marvels. One of those marvels is the Drennen Scott House which was built back in 1836. After you’ve toured the city, head to some of the greener areas by visiting several of the parks, including the Lee Creek Reservoir Recreation Area, Fort Smith Park, or Louemma Lake.

Jasper

Easily one of the charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is the quaint town of Jasper. This is a small town, but it’s surrounded by gorgeous hills and lovely landscapes. This is one of those towns with a Main Street that you can walk down as you stop in local shops and eateries. There are no bars here as this is a dry town, but there’s a certain charm to that.

Come here for the atmosphere and for the many fun things to do, from exploring the hiking trails to speaking to the locals. This town is also near many historical landmarks, including the Round Top Mountain Trail, Little Bear Cave Hollow, and the Arkansas Grand Canyon. You could easily spend a weekend here and enjoy every minute of your stay.

Greenwood

Greenwood must have a place on your list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore. This is a great town for a quick trip or to stay for a few days. You can tour the quaint shops and restaurants, and you can also travel 30 miles to the larger town of Fort Smith and spend some time there as well. 

While you’re in Greenwood, stop by Jack Nolen Lake and soak in the natural beauty as you go hiking or enjoy a picnic. You can also stop by Ouachita National Forest and see gorgeous trees and plants, which can be a great learning experience for the kids. In addition to being a nice place to visit, Greenwood is also a great place to raise a family. There are good public schools, it’s a safe neighborhood, and the houses are affordable. Pay a visit and see what you think.

Bella Vista

Bella Vista is a gorgeous small town that’s situated nicely within the Ozark Mountains. If you love history, there’s a lot to see here. Learn more about the past at the Museum of Native American History. Veterans or people who appreciate those in the armed forces can check out the Veterans Wall of Honor. If you love gorgeous architecture, you can stop by the Mildred B. Cooper Memorial Chapel.

It’s a huge chapel that combines gorgeous glasswork with stunning arches. Bring your camera because you won’t want to miss it. This is a great town to visit if you want to soak in the beauty of the mountains. Hop on the Tanyard Creek Nature Trails to really soak in the beauty. For an extra thrill, take a detour to War Eagle Cavern, which is a living cavern that will really blow you away.

Batesville

History buffs should stop by Batesville because they’ll get they’ll get their full of Americana. Start by heading downtown, where many of the buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. One of them is the Melba Theater, so stop by for a show. Then, head to the Old Independence Regional Museum and learn about the town of Batesville and what it looked like before.

All that history will likely have you wanting to learn more about the town, so stop by many of the tasty restaurants and cool shops. If you love sports, then head to the Mark Martin NASCAR Museum. It’s there where you can see all of the uniforms, memorabilia, and trophies that were owned by the driver. Finally, head down to White River. It’s a gorgeous spot that was also a major part of the Civil War. That’s just the tip of the iceberg of what you can see here.

Russellville

Another one of the charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Russellville. This is a great place to visit if you love nature trails, water activities, and recreational areas. Russellville borders two exceptional bodies of water: the Arkansas River and Lake Dardanelle. Both offer chances to swim and cool off during the hot summer months.

You can also go kayaking, canoeing, and fishing if the mood strikes you. If you like bass fishing, this is one of the best places to be. Next, enjoy a hike through the Ozark St. Francis National Forest or Lake Dardanelle State Park. If you love any type of recreational activity, from skateboarding to baseball, there are plenty of fields and places to enjoy yourself. The town is also very old, so there are many great historical buildings to see along the way.

Mountainburg

There’s a ton of charm in the quaint town of Mountainburg. In addition to the various restaurants and lovely shops, there are acres of gorgeous nature to behold. There are many trails that you can hike or bike that go through the mountains. Plan to stop at Artist Point, which is a scenic stop that will put the whole scene in perspective.

If you love camping, then this is a place to add to your bucket list. There’s barely any place that isn’t beautiful enough to set up camp. There are other charms of Mountainburg, including a dinosaur park. Bring your kids, and they can run around and climb inside many different dinosaurs. The park also offers basketball parks, a running trail, and a large picnic area. Don’t forget your camera during your visit to Mountainburg.

Heber Springs

If you’re an old-school traveler, you may remember this town by its original name, which was Sugar Loaf. While it’s been renamed, it’s still a wonderful quaint town that you should visit. The town has been around since the mid-1800s and part of its charm is being home to lovely mineral springs. There’s also a large manmade lake that’s over 31,000 acres, which makes it perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and tubing. 

Once you’re back on land, head downtown to the historic district, where you can see large, beautiful landmarks, such as the town square and the courthouse. You can easily spend a day there while checking out the museum and the numerous thrift and antique stores and then catching a show at the downtown theater. This is a place where you could take the family for a long vacation.

North Little Rock

North Little Rock offers you a refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the larger Little Rock area. Here in this small town, you can be near the big city and even go on a tour there if you want. Then, come back and enjoy the scenery here. There are many scenic trails you can enjoy that go along the Arkansas River.

While you’re out, walk through Burns Park, where you’ll find gold courses, playgrounds, and even a full-scale amusement park where there’s fun for you and your kids. Finally, get your camera and head to the Old Mill. It’s a gorgeous piece of architecture from the 1800s that you may recognize from the film “Gone with the Wind.” North Little Rock is a nice, safe town where you can unwind and relax. It’s so charming that you may never want to leave!

Magnolia

If you’re looking for something fun and festive, then one of the charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Magnolia. The town is gorgeous and it will remind you of simpler times. Plus, there’s a lot of great things to do. You won’t know where to start. Check the calendar ahead of time and visit during the annual Magnolia Blossom Festival and soak in the beauty of the season before participating in the World Championship Steak Cookoff.

If you enjoy BBQ, then you might go to Magnolia to see the World’s Largest Charcoal Grill. Once your stomach is full, you can go on and learn more about the history of the area by visiting some of the older structures. They include the South Arkansas Heritage Museum and the Columbia County Jail. Finally, take your bike to Logoly State Park and explore the trails.

Altus

You may not have realized that Arkansas has a flourishing wine country. It’s a fact, and the quaint town of Altus is at the heart of it all. Travel throughout the town, and you’ll come across four separate vineyards. You can tour and enjoy each of them. While you do, you can get a spectacular view of the Ozark mountains.

All the wineries are of the finest quality, so if you’re a fan, you need to check them out. There are other fun things to do in Altus, including stopping by the amazing St. Mary’s Catholic Church and hiking through the many parks in the area. Of course, you can have a wonderful time just walking down the main streets. There are many friendly people, tasty restaurants, and fun shops to discover along the way.

Siloam Springs

There’s something for everyone to do in the quaint town of Siloam Springs. It’s near the water, so you can go swimming or visit the City of Siloam Springs Kayak Park. If you enjoy other types of adventure, you can also find trails for hiking and biking throughout the town. This place is a must-see if you love history. The town of Siloam Springs is located within the Cherokee Nation, so there’s a lot to discover about the local residents.

To learn more, head by the Siloam Springs Museum Society, where you can get up close and person with many artifacts and exhibits that show you just how amazing this small town has been over the years. You’ll likely be amazed at the lovely homes in this town that are likely unlike what you have seen at home. It’s quite a lovely experience.

Murfreesboro

Murfreesboro is easily one of the most unique small towns in all of Arkansas. This is a geographical attraction that must be on every travel bucket list because it’s where you’ll find the Crater of Diamonds State Park. It’s a place where you can find real diamonds and shiny bling. This is one of the few places where the public is invited to find their own diamonds, so bring the kids.

After that, stick around and visit Daisy State Park where you can hike and walk through the wilderness, go fishing, or just lay back and relax. There are plenty of great places to stay in Murfreesboro, including the historic Diamonds Old West Hotel. Walk down the city streets, and you’ll also see many great restaurants and local shops.

Ozark

If you’re looking to see the wonderful Ozark Mountains from a different angle, then add the town of Ozark to your list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore. Located on the southern side of the mountain, this town offers many ways for you to relax during your vacation. If you enjoy a sip of wine, you can stop by the Vineyard Vinyasa Retreat and try the newest varieties while soaking in amazing scenery.

Later on, bring your camera to Beatles Park where you can see creative statues and sculptures that are dedicated to the classic band. They’ll blow your mind. The park is here because this is the only city that the Beatles ever visited as a band. There’s a lot of folk history intertwined in the city of Ozark, so it’s worth coming if you love great music.

El Dorado

El Dorado is one of the larger towns on our list, but make no mistake, it’s a stunning place that has a small-town vibe. The town is the county seat of Union County, so it has a lot to offer as far as shops, restaurants, and hidden places to discover. There’s even an active nightlife scene if you’re visiting without the kids. If you do have children, there are still plenty of places to go and discover.

There’s the Newton House museum, where you can check out great exhibits that show you how the town has changed over time. Nature lovers have a couple of options here. There’s the South Arkansas Arboretum which is packed with colorful flowers that will stir your soul. After that, head to either Oil Heritage Park or Mattocks Park and sit on the grass, have a picnic, or take a walk and soak in the natural beauty.

Fairfield Bay

If you’ve got a week off of work and you want to visit one of the most gorgeous lakeside resorts in the country, then stop by the small town of Fairfield Bay. As the name suggests, this is the go-to place to visit in Arkansas for all things aquatic fun. There are beaches and water activities galore. You can go boating, skiing, fishing, tubing, or anything else your heart desires.

If you rather have fun on land and you enjoy golfing, then Fairfield Bay is also the place for you. This town has fourteen beautiful golf courses. Try one or all of them and relax on the links. There are a couple of very lovely and quaint lodging options here as well. We recommend staying in the Cobblestone Inn & Suites where you can get an amazing room at a good price, which is great because with so much to do, you won’t likely be spending a lot of time there.

Mountain View

Mountain View is a great small town to visit if you love music, especially folk music. This is one of the folk centers of the world. You can get your fill here. Start by visiting the Stone County Museum. That’s where you can learn the long history of the folk tradition in Mountain View. Then, walk around town, and you’ll see little hints of the folk tradition in stores and restaurants. 

If you play an instrument, bring it along, and you could form a band! There are plenty of other fun activities here as well. If you love hiking, you can visit the Ozark Folk Center State Park and then check out the H.S. Mabry Barn. For a little more outdoor adventure, head to Loco Ropes. While there, you can ride fun zip lines and try your hand at unique rope climbing missions.

Mountain Home

The name of this town just screams happiness and relaxation. As the name suggests, this town is situated near the Ozark Mountains, so there are endless opportunities to hike, bike, and enjoy the natural beauty. To get a real thrill, stop by Cooper Park. There’s a mountain lake there where you can swim in the freshest of waters.

There are also many different parks in the area, including Keller Park, where you can go hiking or exploring or hit a few balls on the baseball diamond. The town is also home to numerous museums and gorgeous art exhibits that are truly unique. Travel down the streets of the small town and you can see many different shops and stores that you can spend hours exploring.

Rogers

The final entry on this list of charming small towns in Arkansas you’ll want to explore is Rogers. Located in Benton County, this city is chock full of history. During your stay, visit the War Eagle Cavern, War Eagle Mill, and Daisy Airgun Museum. They are all beautiful structures that have a lot to teach you about the history of the town.

The museum is particularly interesting because it has a collection of vintage artifacts from years gone by. After a night of exploring, you can check out the numerous restaurants and breweries in town that all have something special to offer. Wake up early the next day and head to Hobbs State Park Conservation Area, where you can walk through nature and breathe in the freshest air you’ve ever experienced.

50. Casper Mountain, WY

• Median home value: $423,400 (3.0 times income)
• Median household income: $140,556
• Total population: 671

49. Long Lake, NY

• Median home value: $202,100 (3.0 times income)
• Median household income: $67,917
• Total population: 666

48. Saw Creek, PA

• Median home value: $196,500 (2.9 times income)
• Median household income: $67,331
• Total population: 4,071

47. Lake Carroll, IL

• Median home value: $285,400 (2.9 times income)
• Median household income: $99,297
• Total population: 758

46. Port O’Connor, TX

• Median home value: $256,600 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $91,150
• Total population: 791

45. Basye, VA

• Median home value: $241,900 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $86,028
• Total population: 1,341

44. Towamensing Trails, PA

• Median home value: $216,200 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $76,983
• Total population: 1,712

43. Port Austin, MI

• Median home value: $147,100 (2.8 times income)
• Median household income: $53,125
• Total population: 667

42. Big River, CA

• Median home value: $128,200 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $47,222
• Total population: 1,028

41. Fawn Lake Forest, PA

• Median home value: $211,300 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $78,036
• Total population: 667

40. Caseville, MI

• Median home value: $142,900 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $52,917
• Total population: 674

39. Lake Waynoka, OH

• Median home value: $226,400 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $84,063
• Total population: 1,103

38. Cordry Sweetwater Lakes, IN

• Median home value: $283,300 (2.7 times income)
• Median household income: $105,673
• Total population: 1,328

37. The Galena Territory, IL

• Median home value: $291,300 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $112,250
• Total population: 1,606

36. Cleora, OK

• Median home value: $199,600 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $77,604
• Total population: 1,508

35. Blue Ridge Shores, VA

• Median home value: $232,900 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $90,938
• Total population: 666

34. Mountain Lakes, NH

• Median home value: $150,800 (2.6 times income)
• Median household income: $59,107
• Total population: 597

33. Lakes of the North, MI

• Median home value: $158,300 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $62,179
• Total population: 1,031

32. Old Forge, NY

• Median home value: $335,200 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $132,645
• Total population: 573

31. Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH

• Median home value: $115,600 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $45,755
• Total population: 1,085

30. Conneaut Lakeshore, PA

• Median home value: $169,000 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $67,063
• Total population: 1,933

29. Wells, NY

• Median home value: $189,700 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $75,583
• Total population: 571

28. Smallwood, NY

• Median home value: $157,400 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $63,909
• Total population: 666

27. Sylvan Beach, NY

• Median home value: $118,400 (2.5 times income)
• Median household income: $48,125
• Total population: 856

26. Bass Lake, IN

• Median home value: $170,300 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $70,110
• Total population: 1,018

25. Woodridge, NY

• Median home value: $167,900 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $70,313
• Total population: 936

24. Saybrook-on-the-Lake, OH

• Median home value: $144,600 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $61,094
• Total population: 1,112

23. Sand Lake, MI

• Median home value: $109,100 (2.4 times income)
• Median household income: $46,250
• Total population: 1,178

22. Lake Medina Shores, TX

• Median home value: $132,000 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $56,200
• Total population: 532

21. Chokoloskee, FL

• Median home value: $213,000 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $91,080
• Total population: 1,061

20. Oak Run, IL

• Median home value: $267,300 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $117,375
• Total population: 673

19. Caroga Lake, NY

• Median home value: $114,700 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $50,565
• Total population: 577

18. Elsah, IL

• Median home value: $187,500 (2.3 times income)
• Median household income: $83,125
• Total population: 629

17. Pocono Pines, PA

• Median home value: $211,100 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $95,833
• Total population: 654

16. Rangeley, ME

• Median home value: $105,600 (2.2 times income)
• Median household income: $48,026
• Total population: 568

15. Round Top, NY

• Median home value: $199,000 (2.1 times income)
• Median household income: $94,353
• Total population: 663

14. Wallenpaupack Lake Estates, PA

• Median home value: $185,700 (2.1 times income)
• Median household income: $90,408
• Total population: 1,075

13. Lake Michigan Beach, MI

• Median home value: $163,800 (2.0 times income)
• Median household income: $81,023
• Total population: 918

12. Chippewa Park, OH

• Median home value: $118,000 (2.0 times income)
• Median household income: $58,661
• Total population: 650

11. Pymatuning Central, PA

• Median home value: $116,200 (2.0 times income)
• Median household income: $58,068
• Total population: 2,325

10. Daufuskie Island, SC

• Median home value: $290,400 (2.0 times income)
• Median household income: $146,349
• Total population: 569

9. St. Helen, MI

• Median home value: $76,000 (2.0 times income)
• Median household income: $38,445
• Total population: 2,822

8. Legend Lake, WI

• Median home value: $160,700 (1.9 times income)
• Median household income: $86,563
• Total population: 1,530

7. Atlanta, MI

• Median home value: $68,000 (1.8 times income)
• Median household income: $38,000
• Total population: 576

6. Thunderbird Bay, TX

• Median home value: $76,700 (1.8 times income)
• Median household income: $43,750
• Total population: 766

5. Indian Lake, MO

• Median home value: $182,400 (1.7 times income)
• Median household income: $105,108
• Total population: 1,000

4. Salome, AZ

• Median home value: $116,600 (1.5 times income)
• Median household income: $79,745
• Total population: 708

3. Lake Colorado City, TX

• Median home value: $90,200 (1.4 times income)
• Median household income: $65,000
• Total population: 903

2. Desert Edge, CA

• Median home value: $53,600 (1.4 times income)
• Median household income: $38,668
• Total population: 3,715

1. Buffalo, IN

• Median home value: $137,800 (1.1 times income)
• Median household income: $120,333
• Total population: 776

The Bread Bag (or Bread Drawer)

In America, buying bread from the grocery store and leaving it wrapped in plastic when we bring it home is standard. However, this is rare in France. In fact, bread doesn’t come in plastic bags. The French know that bread needs to breathe. Wrapping it in plastic can add dampness, softening the crust. It may also lead to soggy bread.

Therefore, French homes typically have a dedicated bag, like a canvas bag or drawer, to store their bread. Bread will have a specific dedicated place in the kitchen. A bread bag or drawer will give bread room to breathe and keep it flaky and fresh for longer. This practice is beneficial because bread is popular in France and is often eaten with every meal.

Using House Shutters

In America, house shutters are typically used specifically for decorative intentions. However, in France, house shutters are the norm. Often, these window shutters are either manual or metal rollers.

Additionally, they are a cultural must for a few reasons. First, they offer protection. House shutters also help the French with temperature management and offer privacy.

It’s common to keep the house shutters closed during hot summer days, even if the house will be darker. Doing so keeps the heat out and keeps the rooms cooler.

A/C is Not Common in France

In America, it’s normal for most houses to have central air conditioning. The A/C keeps homes more relaxed during summer, making families more comfortable.

However, in France, air conditioning is not standard. Lack of air conditioning is the result of many factors. Many homes do not have enough space to install air conditioning. Even if they did, it’s often believed that air conditioning is a waste of money in France. It is thought that air conditioning negatively impacts the environment, and the energy costs are too high.

For these reasons, older houses were built to keep the heat out, negating the need for air conditioning. However, air conditioning in France is becoming more and more accepted.

Less Housework Than Any Other Nation

The French do not consider cleaning their homes a chore. Instead, they choose to clean a bit at a time, which helps them maintain their homes more manageably. Additionally, cleaning as you go, a little at a time, means things stay manageable. This practice indicates that France has less housework than any other nation.

The French also believe in quality over quantity. This practice keeps clutter away, making it easier to maintain a clean environment.

The mindset of not thinking of cleaning as a chore but as something that helps create a space you love is beneficial. You will be more positive and joyful when you feel good in your home. The less clutter consuming your home and mind, the easier it is to tackle other priorities. While this may not be the American way, if you would love to cut down on housework, this practice may be a great one to implement in your household routine.

Scents Do Not Equal a Clean Home

In France, many believe that a clean home should smell like nothing. They do not equate a clean home with a fresh, fragrant smell. This doesn’t mean they don’t use candles or things like lavender. Instead, these extras are used for other purposes, not for making a house smell good.

Candles are great for setting a mood, but as for scented sprays, the French use them less than Americans.

Cleaning is Reserved for the Morning

The French reject the idea that cleaning needs to be done in one giant chunk or whenever you can fit it in. Instead, it is traditionally accepted that cleaning is typically reserved for the morning.

The morning cleaning practice allows homeowners to enjoy their clean spaces throughout the day. It also reduces stress as they entertain guests, receive pop-up visitors, and more.

Also, reserving cleaning for a specific time of day means that they know what they are doing, which prevents messes from piling up and creating unnecessary stress.

Not Having a Dryer

In America, having a washer and dryer that sit alongside one another is common in many homes. However, this practice is rare in France. It’s entirely normal for most homes not to have a dryer. For starters, homes may have less space to have a dryer.

Older homes may not have the correct type of venting for a dryer. Lastly, energy savings are also a big factor in why France homes often lack dryers.

Instead, the French dry their clothes using drying racks or clotheslines. Some apartments have a washer-dryer combo machine, which makes drying clothes more convenient. Additionally, it’s common for a laundromat to offer both a washer and a dryer in French countries.

Holding the Shower Head While Showering

In France, the shower head is not mounted on the wall. Instead, it’s more common for a shower to have a handheld showerhead. This means you must use the handheld while showering to help soap off your hair and body.

It’s common practice to use a handheld shower head to wet your body. Then, it is turned off while you soap off and shampoo. The water is turned back on to rinse off your hair and body.

Scheduling a House Showing While the Homeowners are There

It is standard practice in America to schedule a home showing with a realtor while the homeowners are out. This is often done while they are at work or are asked to leave. However, this practice is infrequent in France.

In fact, it’s not uncommon for homeowners to be present when the realtor is showing a home if they happen to have nothing else to do. This practice has a few pros and cons. If the homeowner is not there, the potential buyer feels more free to discuss possible negatives with the realtor.

However, if the homeowners are around, they can answer any questions the realtor may not know the answer to.

In Conclusion

It’s normal to think that everyone lives the way we do. However, if you travel to another country, you may experience quite the culture shock with some customs that are considered normal.

These French household routines may confuse Americans for several reasons. Although having no air conditioning or showering with a handheld shower head is less common in America, that doesn’t mean they aren’t beneficial. Certain practices in France, like not having a dryer or air conditioning, cut down on energy costs. Other practices, like cleaning as you go, keep stress at bay.

While these practices may confuse Americans, they can be beneficial when implemented in household routines, especially if you feel stressed out by cleaning or large messes in your home.