While some say that good things come in small packages, these small towns reveal that this age-old adage can — at times — be wrong. In fact, it should be said that great things come in small packages as these small towns will attest. If you are in desperate need of a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of big city life, you will want to consider these great small towns bursting with more than their fair share of charm for your next 2021 getaway.
Boothbay Harbor, Maine
With a past centered around the lobster and shipbuilding industries, Boothbay Harbor has grown into a bustling tourism destination in New England. Navigate the surrounding waters on one of many boat tours that highlight the area’s exciting maritime history as well as natural beauty, or enjoy one of the many other great things that Boothbay Harbor has to offer.
Tim Trudell
Casey, Illinois
The small interstate town of Casey, Illinois, located about halfway between St. Louis and Indianapolis, desires to be seen as anything but “small” or a quick gas stop while passing through. This charming town is home to countless larger-than-life attractions designed to entice tourists to stick around after filling up. Here are our recommendations for how to get the most out of a day in Casey, Illinois.
Bisbee, Arizona
Once a thriving mining region, you will find that this small town just north of the Mexican border has been transformed into a retreat for artists and tourists alike. Whether you come to explore the town’s mining history or to step back in time as you walk through historic downtown, we hope you enjoy our picks for the best way to spend a day in beautiful Bisbee.
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire
Blink and you’ll miss New Hampshire’s coastline as you drive between Massachusetts and Maine. With less than 20 miles of Atlantic shoreline to its name, the state has to pack a lot into a pretty tight space. Hampton Beach is a must-stop coastal town in New England that is fun for the whole family. Click to see all that Hampton Beach has to offer as we share how to spend a perfect day in this quaint beach town.
Ouray, Colorado
You may not find world-class ski slopes during your time in Ouray, but you will find a plethora of small-town charm and outdoor recreation to keep you occupied for however long you are able to stay. Known for its hot springs and Victorian architecture, you will be saying “Hooray for Ouray!” as you explore the quaint mountain town. Here’s how to spend a perfect weekend during your next visit to gorgeous Ouray, Colorado.
Medora, North Dakota
As the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora fully embraces the former president and conservationist, honoring the man and “guarding” his namesake park. Make sure to consider our suggestions for enjoying a perfect day in Medora, North Dakota.
Julian, California
Known throughout Southern California for its orchards, apples may bring visitors to town, but the town’s appeal goes far beyond its produce. Natural beauty and rich history abound. While beautiful and enticing year-round, here are our picks for the best things to do in Julian, California, during the fall.
Oak Island, North Carolina
If you are looking for a beach getaway while avoiding the spring break crowd, then Oak Island is the destination for you. It checks all of the necessary boxes for ensuring a slow-paced and relaxing getaway for mature and younger travelers alike. If you didn’t already have it on your list, here are 15 reasons to visit beautiful Oak Island, North Carolina.
Bedford, Pennsylvania
Home to natural springs that many once believed to have healing powers, and a summer getaway for former President Buchanan, Bedford’s location in central Pennsylvania makes it a great getaway for those at either end of the state as well as those in the D.C. area. Here’s how to spend an amazing weekend in historic Bedford, Pennsylvania.
Woodstock, Vermont
Picturesque views and history abound as you explore the colonial-era charm that defines Woodstock. Nestled near the Green Mountains of Vermont, both avid and occasional outdoor recreation fans will have no shortage of opportunities to enjoy mother nature. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Woodstock, Vermont during your next visit.
Kanab, Utah
Kanab marries small-town charm with natural beauty in a way that few other towns could emulate. Kanab is surrounded by Zion, Grand Canyon, and Bryce Canyon National Parks as well as a popular national monument — each an hour an half or less drive from this ideal basecamp. If you are looking to explore natural beauty at its finest, click to see our recommendations for where to play, eat, and stay in scenic Kanab, Utah.
Clear Lake, Iowa
This is one alluring Midwest lakeside town you won’t want to miss. If you have never traveled to Iowa, consider Clear Lake for your inaugural visit. Enjoy water sports on the lake, or enjoy the high flying colors of the annual kite festival held in town. Click to read why we believe Clear Lake is worth a visit.
Abilene, Kansas
Don’t fall into the same trap that many who visit Abilene do: Ensure you plan plenty of time for not only Eisenhower’s Presidential Library and Museum but all of the other great options Ike’s hometown has to offer, too. Experience the Wild West, explore unique museums, and enjoy some small town charm: Here are 8 great things to see and do in Abilene, Kansas, beyond the presidential library.
Our writers work tirelessly to share their travel experiences with you as they explore, so keep coming back to TravelAwaits daily to see where they travel next! Make sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter to have our most popular stories from the past week sent directly to your inbox each Sunday morning.
