The Nation's Distinctive Destinations

For the second year, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has selected the Dozen Distinctive Destinations -- a list of the best preserved and unique communities in the U.S.

1 minute read

April 18, 2001, 5:00 AM PDT

By Christian Madera @http://www.twitter.com/cpmadera


"From the waterfront of Beaufort, South Carolina, to the vineyards of Calistoga, California, these 12 destinations are marvelously American locations, typifying our country's small towns, close communities, and celebrated heritage. They offer a respite from the demands of today's frantic, wired world, while at the same time remaining relevant and thoroughly enjoyable. They epitomize the flip side of sprawl, demonstrating the joys and benefits of a well-preserved historic community. All 12 of these cities and towns are managing growth responsibly and maintaining strong, vibrant downtowns. They are committed to preserving their historic landmarks, maintaining their unique character, and sustaining an economic base of small, locally owned businesses. They are not only historically distinctive vacation spots - they are also fun places for families and visitors of all ages."

Thanks to APA Dateline

Sunday, April 1, 2001 in National Trust For Historic Preservation

Young Professional

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban and Environmental Planner

Get top-rated, practical training for planners

"Planetizen federal action tracker" logo superimposed over black and white image of US Capitol dome.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

October 20, 2026 - Zachary Whalen

A pencil rendering of Foundry Park, which shows skyscrapers and public green spaces.

Chicago breaks ground on $3 billion megadevelopment

The new neighborhood, titled Foundry Park, will one day host 3,700 residences.

October 23, 2026 - Chicago Sun Times

A yellow, two-story building named Ferns with two American flags.

This MA town is drowning in its own sewage — and residents like it that way

Susan Murcott, a waste water expert, said if Carlisle didn't address their leaking sewage, the problem could turn “deadly.”

October 22, 2026 - Boston Globe

People walk off a train in chicago

Chicago’s new transit authority has ‘unprecedented’ land development power

The Northern Illinois Transit Authority is allowed to buy and develop land for reasons unrelated to transit, a power that is fairly unique among transit authorities.

15 minutes ago - Chicago Sun Times

A pig poking its snout between the bars.

Iowa taxpayers are paying thousands to clean manure out of their water

While the Clean Water Act makes states responsible for regulating factory farms that discharge pollutants, Iowa has turned a blind eye to the polluting farms.

October 27 - Inside Climate News

Amtrak officials cut the ribbon at the new Seattle facility.

Amtrak cuts ribbon on Seattle Airo maintenance facility

The $250 million, nearly 100,000-square-foot building can house an entire Cascades Airo trainset.

October 27 - Railway Supply