Summary: The National Trust for Historic Preservation® on February 7 announced the selection of its 2008 Dozen Distinctive Destinations®. Each year since 2000, the Trust has selected 12 vacation destinations across the U.S. that offer an authentic visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural diversity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes, and a strong commitment to historic preservation and revitalization. The destinations selected in 2008 range from a French colonial village along the banks of the Mississippi River that captures the pioneer spirit of the early settlers, to a small Texas town that serves as a gateway to the unspoiled terrain of the 19th-century Western frontier, to a gorgeous Southern city with roots three centuries deep, and a coastal town renowned for its seafood and historic buildings.

In each community, residents have taken forceful action to protect their town’s character and sense of place, the Trust reports. Whether by enacting a local preservation law to protect historic buildings against demolition, rewriting zoning codes to prevent commercial sprawl, removing regulatory barriers to downtown housing, making downtown areas more walkable, enacting design standards, or taking some other major step that demonstrates a strong commitment to their town, residents have worked hard to preserve the historic and scenic assets of their communities.

Below is the 2008 distinctive dozen and comments penned by the Trust.

Aiken, S.C. Aiken seamlessly balances its varied 19th century heritage with cosmopolitan flair to offer all the necessary ingredients for a great vacation.

Apalachicola, Fla. Apalachicola, a coastal town renowned for its mouth-watering seafood and singular charm, features a waterfront dotted with fishing vessels, a downtown filled with eclectic shops, and streets lined with historic buildings.

Columbus, Miss. The birthplace of prize-winning playwright Tennessee Williams, Columbus thrives on its extraordinary mix of Southern history, natural beauty, and culture—with antebellum homes spared during the Civil War and historic tours showcasing the remarkable impact of the African-American community to a revitalized Main Street that possesses great curb appeal.

Crested Butte, Colo. One of the most charming vacation destinations in the Rockies, this former coal-mining village is a recreational paradise that offers a rare mix of rugged beauty, history, and adventure—no matter the time of year.

Fort Davis, Texas. With no traffic lights or chain stores, Fort Davis is a gateway to an unspoiled terrain, offering an extraordinary blend of majestic scenery, abundant wildlife, and cultural resources that bring to life the history of the 19th-century Western frontier.

Friday Harbor, Wash. This small, well-preserved community in the San Juan Island chain is one square mile of perfection—an antidote to city life, ideal for outdoor adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

Portland, Ore. Boasting both the charm of a small-town community and the urban vitality of a big city, Portland is a dynamic destination that offers an alluring mix of natural beauty, lively downtown entertainment, and landmark historic attractions.

Portsmouth, N.H. This elegant seaport, the nation’s third oldest city, is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country with its captivating blend of coastal beauty, historic buildings, and lively downtown.

Red Wing, Minn. Conveniently located one hour south of the Twin Cities, this handsome historic town features a treasure trove of architectural gems dating back to its beginnings as a riverfront trade point as well as an enviable natural environment.

Ste. Genevieve, Mo. One hour south of St. Louis, Ste. Genevieve is the only French colonial village remaining in the U.S., providing an unparalleled glimpse into the pioneer spirit of the early settlers.

San Juan Bautista, Calif. Known as the “City of History” because of its unparalleled collection of Spanish Colonial architecture, San Juan Bautista showcases Old California like no other.

Wilmington, N.C. From riverboats to battleships, grand old mansions to historic museums, splendid gardens to Civil War sites, Wilmington, has a charm and style all its own that dates back nearly three centuries.

This is the ninth time the National Trust for Historic Preservation has announced a list of Dozen Distinctive Destinations. To date, there are 108 Distinctive Destinations located in 42 states throughout the country.