Are you ready to be charmed? You might not have to travel far, if you live in California.
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HGTV recently focused its big lens on a pint-sized subject — town centers in America – and came away with a basketful of California recommendations. In its story, “The 40 Most Charming Small Downtowns in America,” the cable channel cites not one but three “hidden gems” in the state: Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea and that Dutch-inspired wonder, Solvang.
“Nothing charms like a small downtown that beckons visitors with historic architecture and boutique shops or local culture and tree-lined streets,” HGTV’s writers assert. “Many small downtowns are located in beautiful settings or have stunning views. Others welcome visitors with lively festivals, delicious foods or a nostalgic atmosphere.”
Here are the first 10 in the list of vibrant towns well-worth exploring. Pacific Grove made the cut for its “Main Street-vibe with Victorian-style homes” and “endless views across the Pacific Ocean.”
HGTV’s Most Charming Small Downtowns in America
1 Athens, Georgia
2 Mystic, Connecticut
3 Fernandina Beach, Florida
4 Middleburg, Virginia
Solvang was one of the prime destinations in the popular movie “Sideways.” A Sideways-inspired trip to Solvang offers a weekend’s worth of fun. (Jackie Burrell/Staff)
5 Concord, North Carolina
6 Dahlonega, Georgia
7 Cape Charles, Virginia
8 Conway, South Carolina
9 Pacific Grove, California
10 Greenville, South Carolina
Source: https://www.hgtv.com/lifestyle/travel/charming-small-town-downtowns-pictures