9 best small towns for a summer vacation
Discover the charm of summer in a small town with these scenic getaways from mountains, beaches, and lakes.
Big cities may get the buzz, but small towns are where summer memories are made– offering the perfect mix of character, nature, and community. From lazy lake days and mountain hikes to charming main streets and local festivals, the best small towns in the U.S. offer everything you need for a perfect summer getaway—minus the crowds.
Whether you're craving coastal vibes, alpine air, or Americana charm, these small-town gems deliver big on relaxation, adventure, and authentic local flavor.
Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brevard is known for its cascading waterfalls, bike trails, and creative small-town spirit. Summer days are made for sliding down Sliding Rock, exploring Pisgah National Forest, or listening to live music downtown. Don’t miss the Brevard Music Center’s acclaimed summer concert series.
Just minutes from Glacier National Park, Whitefish serves up breathtaking lakefront views, mountain adventures, and a rustic downtown packed with shops and eateries. Kayak, hike, and ride the scenic gondola up Big Mountain. It’s a go-to for travelers craving quiet natural beauty and a touch of Wild West charm.
This Bavarian-style village nestled in the Washington Cascades is a hidden summer gem. Take in mountain views with a bratwurst in hand, tube down the Wenatchee River, or hike through alpine trails before relaxing with a stein in one of the beer gardens. It’s like visiting Europe—with a Pacific Northwest twist.
Tucked away on Mustang Island, Port Aransas offers everything you want in a small beach town—friendly vibes, soft sandy shores, and vibrant local color. With fishing piers, dolphin tours, and seafood shacks just steps from the beach, it’s made for slow, sunny summer days. Visitors love biking around town, birdwatching on the dunes, or lounging in a beach chair until sunset.
With its iconic Haystack Rock and dramatic shoreline, Cannon Beach delivers classic Pacific Northwest beach charm. Stroll the artsy downtown, explore tidepools, or hike nearby cliffside trails for ocean views. It’s quiet, scenic, and perfect for a relaxed coastal summer escape.
Perched on Massachusetts' North Shore, Rockport delivers big on character with art galleries, fishing wharves, and harbor views. Enjoy lobster rolls by the bay, visit Motif Number 1, and explore tide pools or kayak the craggy coastline. It’s a classic New England summer escape.
Located near the shores of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck mixes coastal beauty with creative flair. Paddle the Kalamazoo River, relax on Oval Beach, or explore the town’s many art galleries and outdoor markets. It’s a picturesque and peaceful Midwestern treasure.
Nestled between the sparkling waters of Lake Pend Oreille and the Selkirk Mountains, Sandpoint is a haven for lake lovers. Enjoy paddleboarding, boating, or browsing the charming downtown. The summer concert series at the lakefront only adds to its magic.
Set at the edge of Colorado’s largest natural lake, Grand Lake offers cool mountain air, endless water views, and a charming wooden boardwalk lined with shops and ice cream stands. Spend summer days out on the water, hiking national park trails, or relaxing in a lakeside cabin with a view.
If your ideal summer vacation includes ice cream on the town square, spontaneous hikes, or lazy days by the water, small towns are calling. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer escape, these destinations offer the perfect mix of scenic beauty, local flavor, and summer magic.
