Best Small-Town Getaways

From mountain haven to coastal paradise, these 17 postcard-perfect towns all make you feel welcome—for a weekend or a lifetime.

Highlands, North Carolina

Within the Nantahala National Forest (near the area where Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina all meet), Highlands is a quiet mountain retreat about three hours away from the big-city bustle of Atlanta and four hours from Charlotte, North Carolina. Its downtown and the surrounding country-side are filled with fine art galleries, white-tablecloth restaurants, and some of the state’s most scenic fall color spots.

• Our Favorite Highlands Spots