Looking for a quiet holiday? 10 small American towns

There’s no need to go far away

Looking for a quiet holiday? 10 small American towns

Not all holidays need to involve an international destination or a busy city. Sometimes, we just want a laid-back getaway and a change of scenery. Well, the United States is a huge country, so there are several destinations to visit that are both quiet and charming. If you just want to relax, enjoy nature, and change your routine without whipping out your passport, these ten American destinations might be for you.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Image: michael schaffler

New England at its best, but in small-town format, Bar Harbor is the place to visit if you enjoy both the coast and history tours. The perfect place to enjoy all kinds of fresh seafood, Bar Harbor is also close to Acadia National Park, where the more adventurous can go hiking, biking, or kayaking.

Sedona, Arizona

Image: Brandon Russell

If hiking is your thing, you will fit just right in Sedona. Famous for its buttes and red rock formations, this Arizona town has over 200 hiking trails, and also a series of spas, wineries, and art galleries to relax after a long day.

Galena, Illinois

Image: Keren Roeglin

Are you a history aficionado? If so, you should give Galena a chance. The hometown of Ulysses S. Grant, this place is famous for its 19th-century buildings. If you want to mix history with exercise, Galena and its hills offer skiing slopes during winter and biking trails in the summer.

Cedar Key, Florida

Image: Alla Kemelmakher

The second-oldest Florida town, Cedar Key, is a perfect destination if you want to avoid big resorts. Often described as an ‘old version’ of Key West, this town offers natural attractions, outdoor activities, a historic city center, and plenty of seafood restaurants.

New Hope, Pennsylvania

Image: Catherine Kerr

Just 40 miles from Philadelphia, New Hope is home to a vibrant arts scene. You can see a show in the historic Bucks County Playhouse, explore the many boutiques and galleries, and take the vintage railroad across the countryside. For a touch of national history in your plans, you can also visit Washington Crossing Historic Park.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Image: Drew Lindsley

Don’t be fooled by the sunny name; this should be your next skiing destination if you want to avoid overcrowded resorts. A year-round resort, Sun Valley offers world-class skiing spots during winter, but it is also perfect for a summer escapade if you enjoy golfing, hiking, or fishing.

Beaufort, South Carolina

Image: Roger Starnes Sr

A perfect example of Southern charm, Beaufort is filled with beautiful walkways, stunning architecture, and waterfront views. You can visit the Historical District and its stately homes, take a stroll through the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, or enjoy the beaches of Hunting Island State Park.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Image: Eric Foster

A destination for the lovers of colonial history, Williamsburg was the setting of several events in American history. You can visit Historic Jamestowne and the Yorktown Battlefield in the Colonial National Historic Park, interact with historical reenactors in the colonial district, and visit some of the amusement parks to unwind after the history lesson.

Stowe, Vermont

Image: Jeffrey Clayton

Offering an activity for each season, Stowe has ski slopes, wonderful fall foliage, and plenty of summer and spring activities. Located next to the Green Mountains, this is the perfect destination for nature lovers, who can also enjoy the many breweries and a visit to the Ben and Jerry’s factory.

Monterey, California

Image: Venti Views

A beautiful seaside destination on the West Coast, Monterey offers a mix of history, marine life, and nature. You can visit their famous aquarium and natural reserves, their historic district and museums, or go for a ride along the stunning coastal trails.