35 Underrated College Towns in America That Are Full of Small-Town Magic

24. Mount Vernon, Iowa – A Midwest Creative Hub

Mount Vernon is a tiny, artsy town in the heart of Iowa that punches far above its weight in terms of charm and creativity. Home to Cornell College, Mount Vernon boasts a thriving arts scene, colorful Victorian buildings, and a Main Street lined with independent boutiques and galleries. Every year, the town hosts the Chalk the Walk Festival, turning its streets into a vibrant outdoor art gallery. The local food scene is surprisingly robust, with artisan bakeries, farm-to-table restaurants, and craft breweries making this town an unexpected culinary delight. For a small-town atmosphere bursting with creativity, Mount Vernon is a hidden gem.