Summary
From a tiny island in South Carolina to the rocky cliffs of Maine, these small towns pack a big punch.
It’s always fun to travel to a well-known destination, but as tourism picks up, you may prefer an escape that’s close to all the action without being in the center of it. These small towns don’t just serve as jumping-off points to other places; they are fantastic destinations in and of themselves, offering distinctive options and a charm you likely won’t find in their neighboring big cities.
Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee
Forty minutes south of Nashville in the area known as Nashville’s Big Back Yard, this Hallmark movie town has impressive art galleries, wine from Tennessee whiskey barrels, and a honky-tonk with the kind of talent you’d expect from a town so close to Music City. Accommodations here include beautiful cottages with architecture that respects the historic nature of the village while offering a long list of amenities.
To get your culture on, visit The Copper Fox, a gallery featuring sculptures, paintings, jewelry, and decorative housewares. Here, you can chat with an artist and go home with a one-of-a-kind treasure. Just a few doors down, Leiper’s Creek Gallery balances fantastic pieces of art with approachable, Southern hospitality. Across the street and a few steps away, quench your thirst at Wines in the Fork, where you’ll enjoy sophisticated vinos aged in Tennessee whiskey oak barrels. End your day at Puckett’s, a former general store that now serves as a music venue and restaurant with top-notch people-watching and even better music.
Highland Lakes, Texas
Just an hour from Austin, the Highland Lakes area is a hamlet of peace and tranquility with plenty of small-town charm. Turquoise water and options for camping and cabin stays make this a romantic getaway with access to everything from wine tastings to the only mountain biking park in Texas. The place to stay on Lake Buchanan is Canyon of the Eagles, a Calibre Resort, offering rocking chairs on your deck with views over the water as hawks soar above. Enjoy a meal at the Overlook Restaurant and take in the dark-sky gazing from Eagle Eye Observatory. These experiences are part of the resort offerings you won’t find in the city.
Meanwhile, adventure-seekers can head to Spider Mountain Bike Park or hike the more sedate trails at Inks Lake State Park for gorgeous views and an introduction to Texas flora and fauna. Visit Longhorn Cavern for an underground adventure where you can marvel at stalactites and stalagmites. And don’t miss the lake itself; take a surreal Vanishing Texas River Cruise over an abandoned town, now submerged, with tree branches reaching skyward as if attempting to escape their watery grave.
Cape Neddick and Ogunquit, Maine
An hour from Portland, the neighboring small towns of Ogunquit and Cape Neddick are the perfect escape if you’re looking for outdoor and wellness opportunities (with a side of lobster). To be truly pampered, stay at the Cliff House, a sprawling resort on Bald Head Cliff with private balconies offering sweeping ocean views and a spa that embraces the elements of Maine. Engage in outdoor activities like walking sea-swept trails, golfing, swimming, biking, and dining on gourmet fare at The Tiller, which features ingredients straight from the on-site garden.
As a guest, you will also have access to the unique Volvo Drive Experience, which includes a complimentary Volvo to explore nearby Ogunquit. This picturesque coastal town offers access to sailing cruises, deep-sea fishing, and beach activities. Visitors will enjoy harbor restaurants, boutique shops, and a playhouse featuring Broadway-style shows, all exuding a delightful New England vibe.
Fish Creek and Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin
A little over an hour from Green Bay Airport, these two towns are filled with state parks, observatories, lighthouses, and casual dining options. Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek boasts nearly 4,000 acres of recreational opportunities, including Wisconsin’s first accessible observation tower, Eagle Tower, with stunning views of Green Bay. This park offers seasonal activities from parasailing to snowshoeing, making it easy to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a budget-friendly family vacation.
Venturing just across the peninsula to Baileys Harbor, you will look out over Lake Michigan. Make sure to hitch a ride on the hay wagon to the Cana Island Lighthouse, now a museum that lets you climb to the top. Following that, enjoy a naturalist-led hike through The Ridges Sanctuary, where you can delve into the unique topography of this region.
Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
No list of small towns that pack a big punch would be complete without a tropical getaway. This tiny island, located a 30-minute ferry ride from Hilton Head, offers a small-town atmosphere. Upon arrival, you will be surrounded by live oaks adorned with Spanish moss, the gentle rumbling of golf carts (your only mode of transportation besides walking), and a sense that you’re now on island time.
Enjoy a visit to the Daufuskie Island Rum Company, operated by a former pharmacist, whose expertise in distilling is matched by his delicious cocktails. Experience horseback riding along the beach with Daufuskie Trail Rides, then explore local artisan shops while learning about Gullah history with Sallie Ann Robinson, a local cookbook author leading island tours. This tranquil location offers untouched beaches, delightful cuisine, and an undeniable sense of relaxation. Whether you rent an entire home or just a room, you’ll feel as if you’re on your private sanctuary.
