A Dozen Distinctive Destinations

The National Trust for Historic Preservation recently released their “Dozen Distinctive Destinations” list for 2009, places that they describe as providing “diverse cultural and historic experiences and share a commitment to preservation and revitalization.” From a quintessential mining town to the “American Riviera,” these destinations offer charming authentic American experiences and are somewhat off the beaten tourist track.

» Santa Barbara, California
» Athens, Georgia
» Saugatuck-Douglas, Michigan
» Virginia City, Nevada
» Santa Fe, New Mexico
» Buffalo, New York
» Lititz, Pennsylvania
» Bristol, Rhode Island
» Hot Springs, South Dakota
» Franklin, Tennessee
» Fort Worth, Texas
» Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

You can see a slideshow of all the destinations at CNN.com.

How many have you visited? Which do you love?

Photo: Touring Buffalo, via The National Trust for Historic Preservation