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Some of the most popular travel destinations fill with elbow-to-elbow crowds, long lines, and expensive experiences during their peak season. That’s why an increasing number of travelers are turning to the travel trend of townsizing.
Townsizing means enjoying small-town getaways to embrace a slower pace, immerse yourself in local ways of living, and enjoy peace and quiet with nature just steps away. With fewer crowds, more affordable accommodations, and genuine experiences around every corner, townsizing vacations allow you to relax, recharge, and connect.
TIP:
Traveling to a small town generally requires a car rental. Keep in mind that hotel options may be limited, but bed and breakfasts are often a great choice.
Nicole Steger, Travel Advisor
TRAVEL ADVISOR FAVORITE
Woodstock, Vermont
POPULATION: 3,005
Nestled against the Ottauquechee River, Woodstock embodies quintessential New England charm. Tree-lined streets dotted with historic homes and covered bridges leave Woodstock feeling like a postcard. The town exudes a warm, welcoming vibe that invites visitors to slow down and savor the simpler things, whether that be a coffee at one of the cozy cafes in town or strolling downtown to take in vibrant fall foliage. Woodstock truly shines in autumn, when the surrounding forests blaze with reds and golds, but its peaceful winter snow and lively summer festivals make it a year-round destination.
While in Woodstock, don’t miss:
- Billings Farm & Museum: A living history farm showcasing Vermont’s agricultural past through interactive exhibits and seasonal events.
- Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park: Vermont’s only national park, featuring beautifully maintained trails and historic landscape design.
- Covered bridges: Take a scenic drive or bike ride to discover iconic covered bridges, including the Taftsville Covered Bridge dating back to 1836.
- Quechee Gorge: Known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” this dramatic gorge is just a short drive away and offers breathtaking views.
- Local eateries and shops: From quaint coffee shops to the Vermont Flannel Co., Woodstock’s downtown is perfect for leisurely strolls and discovering local craftsmanship.
TRAVEL ADVISOR FAVORITE
New Hope, Pennsylvania
POPULATION: 2,612
New Hope is a vibrant, artsy town along the Delaware River that has long been a haven for creatives and travelers alike. Its colorful main street is lined with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, while the riverfront offers charming views and waterside dining. Known for its welcoming, LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere, New Hope has a lively energy balanced by a small-town feel. Fall is especially beautiful here, with crisp weather and colorful foliage adding even more charm to this Bucks County gem.
Visitors will find no shortage of things to do in New Hope, such as:
- Bucks County Playhouse: Catch a Broadway-style production in this historic theater dating back to 1939.
- Solebury Orchards: Enjoy seasonal fruit picking and fresh-pressed cider at this countryside orchard.
- Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve: Hike winding trails through meadows and woodlands filled with native plants.
- Wax N Scent Studio: Craft your own personalized candle in this creative, hands-on experience.
- Peddler’s Village: Visit this colonial-style shopping and dining district featuring boutiques, restaurants, and festivals year-round.
- New Hope Ferry Market: Have a meal at this riverside food hall with a diverse mix of local eateries and specialty vendors.
- Ghost Light Inn: Stay in modern luxury at New Hope’s boutique hotel on the river.
TRAVEL ADVISOR FAVORITE
Lambertville, New Jersey
POPULATION: 4,139
Just across the river from New Hope, Lambertville is a Victorian-style town filled with antiques, galleries, and cozy cafes. Its walkable streets, lined with restored 19th-century homes, give the town an elegant yet approachable character. Visitors love its mix of arts, history, and outdoor recreation, all set against the tranquil backdrop of the Delaware River. Lambertville is especially charming in spring and fall, when its historic architecture and riverside views are complemented by blooming flowers or colorful foliage.
Highlights that make Lambertville a must-visit include:
- Music Mountain Theatre: Watch musicals, plays, and other family-friendly community performances.
- Howell Living History Farm: Step back in time at this working farm, where traditional agricultural practices are still used.
- Holcombe Jimison Farmstead Museum: Explore Lambertville’s agricultural history through exhibits, artifacts, and period buildings.
- Goat Hill Overlook: Hike up to this scenic spot for sweeping views of the Delaware River Valley.
- The People’s Store Antiques and Design Center: Pop by this multi-level treasure trove of antiques, vintage pieces, and collectibles.
- Bridge Street Antiques & A Touch of the Past Antiques: Visit these two shops to browse everything from Victorian furniture to estate jewelry.
- Lambertville Stations Restaurant and Inn: Find accommodations in this riverside inn housed in a restored 19th-century train station with elegant rooms and a celebrated restaurant.
Shepherdstown, West Virginia
POPULATION: 1,531
Shepherdstown carries the quiet elegance of a historic riverside town, where cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture welcome exploration. Located on the bank of the Potomac River, the town boasts a relaxing yet lively energy fueled by its small university community. Spring and fall are especially beautiful here, when the weather is mild and the riverfront trails burst with color, making it ideal for outdoor strolls and cultural events.
During your stay, be sure to check out:
- Mystery walks: Explore the town’s supernatural side with guided paranormal tours.
- Contemporary American Theater Festival (CATF): Enjoy bold new plays and cultural events hosted at the Marinoff Theater.
- Shepherdstown Battlefield: Learn about this Civil War battle, which took place in 1862.
- Pedal & Paddle Rentals: Rent bikes or kayaks to see more of the town and river at your own pace.
- Bavarian Inn, Resort and Brewing Company & Thomas Shepherd Inn: Both of these are beautiful places to stay and enjoy local brews.
- Cross the Potomac: Take a trip just over the river to Potomac Ridge Brewing and nearby Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
POPULATION: 584
Perched on the edge of Lake Superior’s rugged shoreline, Bayfield is a tiny harbor town with a big heart. Its quaint streets, lined with charming shops and friendly cafes, reflect a slower pace of life where nature and community come first. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and the famed Apostle Islands, Bayfield offers a pleasant retreat with a strong connection to the water. Summer and early fall are the best times to visit, when the weather is warm enough to kayak the sea caves and enjoy festivals celebrating local harvests.
There’s plenty to enjoy in and around town, including:
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Explore 22 islands, including kayaking to famous sea caves and historic lighthouses.
- Meyers Beach Sea Caves: A breathtaking natural feature just a short drive away.
- Bayfield Applefest: Celebrate autumn with this popular local festival highlighting the region’s apple harvest and crafts.
- Eckels Pottery and Fine Craft Gallery: Take in local artistry and shop for ceramics and other wares.
- Hoop’s: Munch on some fresh fish and chips down by the harbor.
- Old Rittenhouse Inn and Queen’s View Bayfield: Stop by or stay at these delightful local estates.
Blowing Rock, North Carolina
POPULATION: 1,376
High up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blowing Rock lives up to its name with dramatic cliffs and a breeze so strong it can lift lightweight objects skyward. The air is crisp and clean year-round, with the landscape transforming dramatically through the seasons. The town exudes a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that blends Appalachian heritage with modern charm. It’s a favorite spot for families and outdoor lovers alike, especially during the fall when the mountains showcase their most spectacular colors.
Be sure to include these on your itinerary:
- The Blowing Rock: Witness the unique wind phenomenon at this iconic, namesake cliff.
- Glen Burney and Glen Marie Falls: Trek over hiking trails to these waterfalls.
- Blowing Rock Arts & History Museum: Learn more about what makes the local and native culture special.
- Tweetsie Railroad: This Wild West-themed amusement park is perfect for kids.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Take a scenic drive or carriage ride to see the Blue Ridge Mountains in full glory.
- Bass Lake: Visit this serene little lake for fishing, picnics, or peaceful afternoons.
- The Embers Hotel, Homestead Inn and Cottages, or Chetola Resort: Consider staying at one of these great options.
Red Lodge, Montana
POPULATION: 2,257
Set against the backdrop of the rugged Beartooth Mountains, Red Lodge feels like a frontier town. Its streets are filled with vintage signage and local art, which feels like stepping back in time to the Old West while enjoying modern comforts. The town pulses with outdoor adventure, whether on the snowy slopes of winter or under vast skies perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing during the summer. Red Lodge is at its most magical in the summer and fall, when the mountain air is fresh and festivals fill the streets with local flavor.
Some highlights include:
- Historic downtown: Listed on the National Register, visitors will love browsing galleries, shops, and restaurants infused with Western flair.
- Beartooth Highway: One of the most scenic drives in the country, this highway connects nearby towns and leads to Yellowstone National Park.
- Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary: Meet and learn about rescued native animals in their natural habitat.
- Red Lodge Mountain: A great visit in the winter months for skiing and snowshoeing.
- Bear Creek Saloon & Steakhouse: Grab a bite to eat and enjoy a show, like the quirky and popular Bear Creek Downs Pig Races.
- Chateau Rouge or Alpine Lodge: Both are highly recommended in the area for guests.
Pismo Beach, California
POPULATION: 8,072
For those who prefer the coast, Pismo Beach delivers classic California charm with sandy beaches, dramatic bluffs, and stunning Pacific sunsets. Known for its laid-back vibe, it’s a place where beachcombing, wine tasting, and whale watching all fit easily into a single weekend. The town is also home to the Monarch Butterfly Grove, which hosts thousands of migrating butterflies, making fall and early winter an especially magical time to visit.
Some of the top spots to experience in Pismo Beach are:
- Pismo Beach & Pier: Found in the center of the town’s coast, the area is perfect for sunbathing, strolling, fishing, or catching a classic California sunset.
- Dinosaur Caves Park: This bluff-top park has dramatic ocean views, walking paths, and a playground.
- Smuggler’s Cave: To the north of town, this hidden sea cave (accessible at low tide) feels like a secret coastal adventure.
- Spyglass Beach Tide Pools: Head down to the beach to look for starfish, crabs, and sea anemones in rocky tide pools.
- Monarch Butterfly Grove: Each year, thousands of monarchs cluster in the eucalyptus trees here between late October and February.
- Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area: This area permits ATVs or 4x4s to drive directly on the sand dunes.
- Vespera Resort: This beachfront hotel has chic coastal decor and beautiful panoramic views of the Pacific.
Manzanita, Oregon
POPULATION: 603
Manzanita is a tranquil coastal town just steps away from the Pacific Ocean. With miles of sandy beach and lush forested hills, the town combines natural beauty with an artistic, laid-back vibe. Manzanita’s small population and quiet streets create a calm escape from more crowded coastal spots, making it ideal for those seeking solitude or creative inspiration. Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for beach walks, hiking, and outdoor festivals, while the misty winters add a moody charm to this coastal haven.
Visitors will love:
- Laneda Avenue: The main artery to the heart of Manzanita is home to a great winery and an incredibly diverse restaurant scene.
- Nehalem Bay State Park: Great spot for hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
- Oswald West State Park: Known for its Short Sand Beach and Cape Falcon Lookout.
- Manzanita Golf Course: This scenic 9-hole course is perfect for golfers of all abilities.
- Spa Manzanita and Pauseful Massage & Botanicals: Treat yourself to relaxing wellness services.
- Manzanita Beach: Enjoy miles of sand shoreline perfect for walking, making sandcastles, surfing, or tide-pooling.
- Coast Cabins or The Houses on Manzanita Beach: These accommodations are some of the top-rated in town.
TIP:
Cute small towns are everywhere! Start your search for the perfect townsizing destination with your ideal ambiance and time of year in mind.
Plan Quiet Vacations With The Travel Team
When you’re ready to escape the noise and crowds, The Travel Team can help you plan quiet vacations tailored to your preferences. We’ll help you find the best quaint towns to visit and devise the perfect itinerary to match. Reach out to us today to learn more or to get started!
