This Is The Most Charming Small Town In Illinois, New Report Says

ILLINOIS — A new report has named the most charming small towns across the nation. Travel magazine Afar, in its new analysis, picked Galena as the most charming in Illinois.

The report picked Galena for its "historical experiences" and charming Main Street, as well as its shops, ins and eateries.

In its analysis of the north Illinois town, Afar raved about Galena's affinity for root beer, citing the sweet suds at Root Beer Revelry and its one-of-a-kind Museum of Root Beer.

"There’s a historic side to Galena, too,: Cross the scenic Galena River to tour the former residenceof Civil War general and former U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant. Anyone seeking a century-old forge in action can swing by the Old Blacksmith Shop," Afar wrote.

Galena also draws in visitors to its many wineries, including Galena Cellars and Vineyards Winery, Rocky Waters Winery and Massbach Ridge Winery.

Other towns listed in the report include Hudson in New York, North Adams in Massachusetts, New Hope in Pennsylvania, and Los Olivos in California.

For the list, Afar said it defined a small town as a place with around 25,000 people or fewer. The pick for each state was chosen based on a unique attraction or characteristic to draw in visitors – whether it’s “singular streets or spectacular outdoor adventure opportunities,” according to Afar.

For example, the standout Maine small town, Belfast, was chosen for its “palpable hippie-meets-hipster energy,” while Waterbury, Vermont, got a nod for being the home of the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory.

Meanwhile, ski towns (and ski-town "vibes") made several appearances on the list — including Whitefish in Montana and Leadville in Colorado, while Wyoming, Georgia, and South Carolina all featured towns with deep histories: Cody, Dahlonega, and Beaufort, respectively.

Looking to pick up a delicious block of cheese? The list has you covered there, too, suggesting a visit to Harman’s Cheese and Country Store in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire, for its “beloved” white cheddar.

Read the full report in Afar.