There are times when one simply has to get rid of the loudness of the big city or the overcrowded national parks and discover a quiet small town where one can stroll, eat delicious food, and truly rest. The 10 places I have found and experienced during the last years, seem to be genuine getaways, lovely downtown areas, nice views, good-natured locals, and hardly any tourists. These are the places where a weekend can be considered a full vacation. Here are my top 10 Picks for Low-Key Small Town Getaways
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is tucked up in the Green Mountains and honestly looks like something out of a calendar. Fall colors are insane, winters are snowy and cozy with fireplaces everywhere, and summer’s great for easy walks. There’s this recreation path that’s perfect for biking or strolling by the river, plus little cider places where you grab hot donuts fresh out.
Sedona, Arizona
Those red rocks everywhere turn crazy colors at sunrise and sunset, it’s hard not to just sit and stare. Trails aren’t too tough if you pick the easier ones, and there are spots people call “vortexes” if you’re into that energy thing. Spas do treatments with the local red dirt, and nights are dark enough for amazing stars. Way calmer than the Grand Canyon crowds.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
This place looks like it was taken directly from a fairytale with the whole city having a magical vibe. Here there are a great number of art galleries available to be visited, and vino tasting rooms offer views of the ocean. Dogs are allowed nearly everywhere, and the mere act of walking around the trails among the fantasy, like houses is quite soothing.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Right by Acadia but the town itself stays pretty chill, especially off-season. Fresh lobster from little shacks by the water, boat trips if you feel like it, or just walking the shore path with views that go forever. Getting up early for sunrise on Cadillac Mountain when hardly anyone’s around is magic.
Taos, New Mexico
This town has Adobe buildings everywhere, big mountains behind, and there is this artsy, laid-back vibe that’s been there forever. The old Pueblo is incredible to see respectfully, hot springs for soaking, galleries full of cool stuff. The air feels crisp, food’s flavorful with all the chiles, here it feels grounding and far from rush.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is a town that is built with steep hills in the Ozarks and these ancient Vicky houses repainted in flashy colors. There are natural springs, cave tours, and tram rides for views. The shops are offbeat, the food is good old Southern, and a B&B holiday with mother nature is great for your digital detox.
Hudson, New York
This place is a quick train from the city but feels totally different with antique stores for days, great little restaurants using local farms. Walk along the river, hit weekend markets, stay in a cool old building turned boutique hotel. Perfect if you want culture without the hassle.
Ogunquit, Maine
It is name means “beautiful place by the sea” and it delivers on it, long sandy beach, that cliff walk called Marginal Way with waves crashing below. Seafood spots right on the water, little harbor for watching boats, some cute theaters if you want a show. Classic Maine without feeling tourist-trappy.
Bluffton, South Carolina
Lowcountry vibes with huge oaks covered in moss along the river, here kayaking’s calm and pretty. Old town has historic spots, great shrimp and grits, porches everywhere for sitting. Southern hospitality’s real here; feels warm and slow in the best way possible.
Sisters, Oregon
This is A quaint little Western town that features cowboy hats and quilt shops, stunning mountain views in every direction. There are breweries, crafts, and relaxing drives to lakes or trails wheresoever in case one wants to breathe in the nature. The fests are enjoyable but not overbearing.
