Top historical and unique vacation spots named

Washington, D.C.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has compiled it's "A" list of the best preserved and unique communities in America. "The communities named to this list are pockets of serenity amid the sprawl, clutter, and homogenization that have overwhelmed so many American vacation spots," said Richard Moe, National Trust President.

The 12 communities are:

San Luis Obispo, CA

Boulder, CO

Thomasville, GA

Lawrence, KS

Lowell, MS

Petoskey, MI

Cooperstown, NY

Pittman Center, TN

Fredericksburg, TX

Lexington, VA

Port Townsend, WA

Chippewa Falls, WI

All12 met these criteria: well-managed growth, a dynamic downtown, a commitment to historic preservation with a protected historic core and meaningful context, interesting and attractive architecture, cultural diversity, an economic base of locally owned small businesses, and walkability for residents and visitors.

For more information, visit www.nationaltrust.org.