Our evaluation process balances beauty, character, and authenticity
We seek small towns (under 20,000 residents) that offer visitors a genuinely beautiful and authentic experience.
Towns meeting basic requirements are evaluated on a 100-point scale:
Preserved historic downtown, cohesive streetscapes, and active preservation efforts
Scenic surroundings, integration with landscape, and access to outdoor recreation
Active arts scene, local festivals, unique traditions, and community identity
Quality lodging, local dining, artisan shopping, and welcoming atmosphere
Genuine character, balance of tourism and local life, sustainable approach
Minimum score required for certification
Towns self-nominate or are identified through research
Site visits and scoring by trained assessors
Board approval and annual membership
Learn about the certification process and member benefits.
Apply for Certification Contact Us