8 Safe and Charming Destinations in the US You Don’t Want to Miss 

There are many safe and charming destinations in our country. You just have to know where to look!

It’s pretty easy to conjure up an image of what life is like in a small town. After all, there are many Hallmark channel movies and tv shows like Gilmore Girls burned into our brains.

But a neverending parade of town festivals and people relying more on the sheriff than locks to keep their homes safe don’t necessarily line up with what reality is really like.

And as headlines continue to put a spotlight on big crime in large cities across the country, lucky for us, America is full of small cities and towns that capture that nostalgic feeling…the non-existent crime rates are merely the cherry on top.

From hidden gems to happening hamlets, here are our 8 favorite safe and charming destinations from coast to coast. Who knows? You might even find your new hometown on our list!

Hudson, New York

Population: 6,710

Known as “the friendly city,” this safe and charming destination seems to be constantly reinventing itself. Case in point: many new businesses are opening up their doors in this Hudson Valley hamlet.

Among them is the Maker, an 11-room boutique hotel spread across three historic buildings. The owners were drawn to Hudson’s diversity and creative energy.

Shoe-and-lifestyle boutique Intentionally Blank and Nikki Chasin’s eponymous clothing store also offer many new boutique options. And foodies will love Breadfolks bakery and Sonder’s natural wine bar.

They provide new spots to eat and drink along Hudson’s commercial strip, Warren Street.

Among these, factor in longtime draws like fantastic antiquing, a famous farmer’s market, and easy access to outdoor activities, and it’s easy to see why more and more folks have been flocking to Hudson.

Franklin, Massachussetts

Population: 32,842

This safe and charming destination in Norfolk County has a long history going back to 1660. However, it took an essential step after its incorporation in 1778 by becoming the first place in our country to be named after Benjamin Franklin.

Today, Franklin is a thriving city bustling with various activities and attractions. You’ll find it down near the Rhode Island state line. Downtown, on Main and Union Street, many smaller, quaint shops and restaurants add to this small town’s desirability.

All in all, this is a place of matchless beauty hidden among the hills and valleys of Western Massachusetts. Franklin is laid back, genuine, and welcoming to all.

Pensacola, Florida

Population: 496,278

Pensacola is well-known for its warm climate and white beaches facing the Gulf of Mexico. It even ranks 10th in the Best Places to Retire and has lower housing costs than national numbers.

While the region is sensitive to hurricanes and tropical storms between June and November, travelers can enjoy mild winters and humid summers with Gulf breezes. This unique and charming destination is where locals and tourists enjoy various experiences and adventures.

From the lively Uptown area to the brick-paved sidewalks of Downtown to miles upon miles of shoreline, museums, fine dining, outdoor activities, festivals, concerts, and award-winning beaches are only a tiny glimpse of what this area has in store for you!

Paso Robles, California

Population: 31,800

This safe and charming destination has plenty to be proud of, with more than 200 wineries and award-winning restaurants that will make you want to move to this area of our country. Yet it’s entirely modest.

There’s a cowboy vibe about it. It’s perfectly normal to wear boots and a hat to a five-star location. Still, dressing up for a seat at, for example, Les Petites Canailles, a recent addition from Michelin-starred chef Julien Asseo, wouldn’t be out of place either.

In Paso Robles, everyone is welcome, no matter how they choose to dress!

When you visit this charming destination, be sure to visit the new Paso Market Walk, which showcases local makers, farmers, and vintners, and you can stay in a retro camper at Rêves de Moutons, located on a sheep and goat farm right in the heart of wine country.

Mobile, Alabama

Population: 430,313

Mobile has frequently been compared to New Orleans with its Mardi Gras traditions and magnificent historic neighborhoods. But this safe and charming destination is also well-known for its outdoor recreation activities and incredible nearby Gulf Coast beaches.

Those interested in moving here should know that the cost of living falls well below the national average, and the metropolitan area’s violent crime and property crime are lower than the national average.

Visitors to this location will find plenty to do, whether you want to learn about the architecture of the antebellum South and plantations, experience the Creole culture and delicious food, soak up the maritime history, or spend a day out on the bay.

Holland, Michigan

Population: 34,000

“Tulip City” was founded by Dutch immigrants back in 1847, and this town along Lake Macatawa celebrates its heritage with attractions you’d typically find in the Netherlands.

There’s Nelis’ Dutch Village, filled with fun rides for kids, and Windmill Island Gardens, but, most famously, this charming destination has an annual Tulip Time Festival at the beginning of May when Holland is rampant with millions of beautiful blooms.

The safe and charming destination also has the long-running annual Fiesta, celebrating the area’s Latino culture and community.

Take a leisurely stroll down Holland’s downtown shopping district for a mix of family-run businesses embedded in the town’s Dutch heritage, like DeBoer’s Bakery, and newer shops like garden and home-goods shop Gezellig.

Holland is also on the water, so you can unwind on the beach at spots like Holland Beach State Park, home to the iconic Big Red Lighthouse.

Wilton, Connecticut

Population: 18,807

If you’ve been looking for a change of pace, make Wilton, Connecticut, your next stop. Wilton is a small city along the New York State line. At first glance, it may seem like any other small colonial town.

But stay for a while, and you begin to appreciate its local quirks and charming character. Sure, it may be a bit too laid-back for some people, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you enjoy a more relaxed environment.

This charming destination is technically a suburb of the larger cities in Connecticut like Bridgeport, Norwalk, and Fairfield, but many residents undoubtedly commute into the Big Apple.

CNN once dubbed this one of the country’s top 10 places to live, noting the household income levels, which average about $300,000 each. Wilton may be tiny, but it certainly doesn’t lack in things to see and do.

From outdoor activities to historical sites, this safe and charming destination has a lot to offer its tourists.

Portland, Maine

Population: 536,314

This safe and charming destination is ideal for outdoor lovers. Portland is perfect for those who wish to connect with mother nature.

It’s Maine’s largest metro area, with locals enjoying cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months and fishing and sailing when the weather gets warmer.

It’s also famous for its fresh seafood with foraged foods, oyster bars, and traditional lobster rolls, among other staple menu items. And while it’s not exactly our country’s most budget-friendly area, it ranks 4th on the Safest Places to Live in the US list.

A stroll through the nooks and crannies of Old Port offers a great introduction to Portland’s history, and when you’re looking to quench your thirst, head over to one of Portland’s microbreweries. Many even offer free brewery tours.

Meanwhile, those with interest in the arts should visit the Portland Museum of Art or take a tour of the lavish interiors of the Victoria Mansion.

And if you’re just looking to enjoy the splendor of this charming destination’s lovely landscapes, go to Eastern Promenade or pack a picnic basket and plan a few day trips to the Casco Bay Islands or Cape Elizabeth.

Have you been to any of the safe and charming destinations on our list? Be sure to tell us all about it in the comments section below!

And if you enjoyed this article, we also recommend checking out: 8 Best Budget-Friendly Destinations for Retirees in the US