Some people say America's "small towns" are a dead concept, that mom-and-pop stores are a thing of the past, and that quintessential neighborhood relationships aren't built for the 21st century.

Map publisher Rand McNally and USA TODAY are rebutting that notion. They partnered up to compile a list of the best small towns in America, asking people to vote on factors including friendliness, food, and beauty.

So if you're in a mood for a trip, and New York, LA, and Chicago aren't quite your style ...

[Editor's note: this list was based on the number of votes nominated towns received in Rand McNally and USA TODAY's 2012 Best Small Towns in America competition (nominees can be found here). The results of the contest can be found here.]