Hey y’all. Beaufort has one of the best downtowns, and lots of folks seem know it. In fact, downtown Beaufort, SC was just named as one of the 10 Best Downtowns in the United States by World Atlas, a popular website that offers perspectives on the world in the form of original maps and articles, with a dash of travel & tourism.
“Big cities often hog the spotlight, yet the pulse of American life thrives in the smaller corners—the places where neighbors still greet each other by name on the sidewalk, and a single main street can tell centuries of stories,” World Atlas said.
“In 2025, these 10 towns prove that bigger isn’t always better. Their downtowns aren’t polished clones of corporate franchise rows; instead, they showcase vibrant local histories, enduring traditions, and the sort of community pride that’s hard to manufacture.”
That’s Beaufort for sure!
Coming in at #7 on the list, World Atlas said of Beaufort, “It is renowned for its well-preserved antebellum architecture and history as a prominent center during both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Beaufort’s downtown area, with its historic district, has been designated a National Historic Landmark and features homes that predate the Civil War, reflecting the city’s rich cultural past and its significance in American history.”
Chosen for its antebellum architecture, historic district, and rich cultural past, World Atlas also cited Beaufort’s thriving food scene, historic museums, and outdoor areas. In addition, our downtown shops were another draw for tourists, the website said.
This isn’t really that much of a surprise if you’ve ever visited Beaufort, SC.
Beaufort is in some good company on the list, too. Also named are Sedona, AZ, Lake Placid, NY, Traverse City, MI, Staunton, VA, Galena, IL, and several more.
World Atlas seems to have a particular love for our little Lowcountry town.
Recently, World Atlas has named Beaufort on several other lists including the #1 Cutest Town in the South, the Most Laid Back Town in South Carolina, and one of the Prettiest Towns in the U.S. It also named the town of Port Royal one of the Top Bike-Friendly Towns in South Carolina….all in the past year or so!
Also, recent accolades for Beaufort, SC include Southern Living magazine naming the Old Sheldon Church ruins one of the South’s Most Beautiful Chapels; Hunting Island State Park one of the Best State Parks in the South; downtown Beaufort’s Craven Street one of the South’s Most Beautiful Streets.
