12 Adorable Small Towns in the Northern United States
Trinkets, thrift stores, and the thrill of the winter season: the Northern United States does not lack for personality. Between Great Lakes where you cannot see to the other side and skyscraper canals with crowd-filled ferries, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. So where do these locals seek refuge after long seasons of city life? They retreat to the small towns that raised them, places of comfort and community. From welcoming villages in Maine to quiet settlements in Vermont, these small towns deserve a highlight.
Woodstock, Vermont
Crossing the Ottauquechee River through a covered bridge, a typical feature in Vermont, the small town of Woodstock awaits. The town's resident artists, artisans, and farmers bring the locals together through community events like painting workshops and farmers markets. Furthermore, around the Ottauquechee River, many paths allow for quiet strolls through the multiple covered bridges. Three bridges in Woodstock date back hundreds of years, a reminder of the grandeur of Vermont's colonial era. For example, the Taftsville Covered Bridge was built in 1836. Moreover, hikers love to tackle Mount Tom, granting scenic views and trails that amaze everyone. Additionally, the Vermont Institute of Natural Science attracts many visitors, motivating them to care for the environment with exciting exhibits; it is a must-see.
Ithaca, New York
Despite not being Ulysses' homeland, the tale of Ithaca, NY, undoubtedly deserves to be told. This small lakeshore town is gorgeous in any season, but spring is an especially great time to experience the Ithaca Falls. Besides its natural backdrops, Ithaca is famous for its prestigious universities, Cornell University and Ithaca College, which attract some of the best talents. The students comprise 30% of Itacha's population, making this town a hotspot for young travelers. Moreover, if one is looking for some entertainment, the State Theatre of Ithaca hosts many live concerts and plays throughout the year for an exciting night near Main Street. Furthermore, Ithaca grants many dining options, such as Moosewood, a restaurant primarily known for its many vegetarian and vegan food choices.
St. James, Michigan
Overlooking Lake Michigan, St.James is a lighthouse guiding to the northern tip of Beaver Island. This small island town is known for its iconic Beaver Harbor Island Lighthouse and many campgrounds. Its community actively revolves around commercial activity for Beaver Island, trading commodities in Paradise Bay. Moreover, the marinas and Beaver Island Ferry Dock provide a setting for fishing or walking by the lakeshore. Despite its small size, St. James features many retail shops, inns, churches, museums, and restaurants like Shamrock Bar & Restaurant, consistently serving customers exquisite dishes typical of Michigan and beyond, such as coney dogs and Detroit-style pizza.
New Glarus, Wisconsin
Between the plains and hills of Green County, Wisconsin, New Glarus is a small town that showcases its Swiss heritage, architecture, and cuisine. New Glarus was founded by industrious Swiss immigrants in 1845 who were quick to establish saw mills and schoolhouses. Moreover, the Swiss Historical Village Museum and Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum grant additional information about the history of this lovely town. Furthermore, New Glarus Woods State Park provides green space for several outdoor activities, such as biking or hiking as well as camping facilities. The park has a wide range of animal life and a diverse assortment of flora, including the northern maidenhair fern and tall bellflowers. Additionally, the Oktoberfest festival is an unskippable event if you find yourself here in October, where locals and visitors immerse themselves in spirited downtown activities, including live music, locally brewed beer, and fine food.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Where Kalamazoo River gives way to Lake Michigan on its southern edge, Saugatuck stands out for its unique character. This small beach town grants expansive views over the lake from about every angle. Known as Michigan's Art Coast, Saugatuck was awarded Best Beach Town 2020 by Midwest Living Magazine. Moreover, art lovers can find Amazwi Contemporary Art and many other galleries or studios to explore downtown Saugatuck. Furthermore, Saugatuck provides visitors with a lovely downtown area, adjacent to a marina and lake, and these suburbs are ideal for shopping and dining. The Southerner, for example, is a restaurant widely appreciated for its creative take on American cuisine. Additionally, after a day of wakeboarding and wildlife spotting, travelers can enjoy an ice-cold beverage at The BARge. At this bar, customers enjoy masterfully crafted cocktails with fruits poking out the top of the glass, paired with juicy burgers skewered by a toothpick.
Damariscotta, Maine
Hugging the Damariscotta River on its course to the Atlantic, the charming town of Damariscotta captures the essence of small-town living with its expansive riverways, friendly residents, and classic New England eateries. For many years, travelers have adored this town in Lincoln County for its irresistible appeal and its distinguished Pemaquid oysters. Although the Atlantic coast is just twelve miles away, Damariscotta offers plenty of waterways full of activities. Damariscotta's River and Lake grant excellent locations for kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and more. Furthermore, feel free to take advantage of Midcoast Kayak Rental, which will provide all the watercraft you need and lessons for an additional fee. Moreover, Damariscotta's restaurants often serve-up the fresh catches from the nearby bodies of water, such as mussels and the famous oysters, which are widely appreciated for their delicate taste.
Pella, Iowa
Pella's history begins in 1847 when 800 Dutch immigrants, guided by Dominee Hendrik P. Scholte, settled here, near the shores of Lake Red Rock. Moreover, one can immerse oneself in the essence of Holland while exploring Pella's captivating architecture, accompanied by iconic wooden shoes, tasteful Dutch pastries, the breathtaking Molengracht canal (which features a fully functional drawbridge) and the animated Klokkenspel. Additionally, a visit to the Pella Historical Society & Museums will provide more information about the roots of this colonial settlement. Furthermore, a short drive to Lake Red Rock will unlock the outdoor potential of this town. Recognized as Iowa's largest reservoir, Lake Red Rock allows for a wide range of water-based activities such as kayaking, boating, or canoeing. Land lovers will also find the nearby Volksweg Trail an excellent hiking and biking experience.
Greenville, Maine
Greenville enjoys breathtaking vistas in the middle of the Maine highlands on the southern shores of Moosehead Lake. In the spring, moose sightings are in the hundreds, so be careful while you drive! Additionally, one can hire a guide for a moose safari or other outdoor adventures, such as fishing, bird watching, or dogsledding in Moose Creek. Moreover, when venturing into Moosehead Lake with a boat, some people continue beyond the shore and reach the middle to find Mount Kineo, where enchanting landscapes and vistas await them. One will surely crave a hearty meal after a day out on the lake. Stopping by Stress-Free Moose Pub & Café will provide a quiet retreat to enjoy delicious meatloaf; the name says it all.
English, Indiana
Hidden inside a valley between the mountains of Crawford County, one of Indiana's smallest settlements, nature surrounds the community of English. Established in 1839, English was initially named Hartford. The town received its current name in 1884, named after the politician William Hayden English. The village of English grants many attractions, including Sycamore Springs Park and Hilands Overlook State Park, where visitors enjoy quiet strolls and small hikes. Besides, English is home to fewer than 700, making for a cozy location where you can immediately feel part of the family. Furthermore, the nearby Hoosier National Forest provides a camping area within the evergreen trees, where many choose to set base in. Additionally, many adventurous travelers come to explore the nearby Potts Creek Rockshelter Archeological Site, which Archaic, Woodland, and Paleo-Indian Indians once inhabited.
Littleton, New Hampshire
Walking down by Moore Reservoir, which divides Vermont and New Hampshire, you will notice some river mills, meaning you found the rural town of Littleton. Furthermore, Littleton is home to one of the oldest dining businesses in the region. The Littleton Diner, open since the 1930s, is a crowd favorite for locals and visitors alike. Moreover, the Littleton Opera House features live shows and opera plays that fascinate every viewer. Additionally, you can enjoy fantastic views of the town and Ammonoosuc River from the 230-foot pedestrian bridge, The Riverwalk Covered Bridge. Besides, The Pollyanna Statue attracts travelers with the cheerful pose of the bronze statue that depicts the iconic character from the 1913 classic children's novel Pollyanna by author Eleanor H. Porter.
Burlington, Vermont
Coinciding with the border between New York and Vermont, Lake Champlain sets the stage for Burlington. This town boasts a thriving arts community, three colleges, a university, and many museums like Ethan Allen Homestead Museum and Historic Site. This animated tour brings one of the founders of Vermont to life. Fountains, a brick-paved pedestrian mall, and historic buildings provide the backdrop for Burlington downtown, which grants many storefronts like Vermont Gift Barn, a peculiar souvenir shop that boasts a collection of locally crafted goods perfect for a gift. Furthermore, Burlington Waterfront Park offers ferry crossings, excursion boats, and a 12.5-mile walk or bike path that connects to the Lake Champlain Islands. Moreover, Burlington's center comes alive in the evening, when many students get by to enjoy the nightlife. For example, Downtown Battery Park hosts the Battery Street Concert Series, with musical performances by artists from all around the country.
Bentonsport, Iowa
In 1972, Bentonsport gained recognition for retaining much of its historical appeal from the bustling steamboat era in the mid-1800s. It once was an essential port for Des Moines River steamers. In 1836 the site, initially known as the Ross Settlement, was established as a trading post operated by Charles Sanford. Later it received a name change to honor local senator Thomas Hart Benton. Moreover, despite the multiple flooding this town was subjected to, it still flourishes. Feel free to take a leisurely walk to the Bentonsport Iron Truss Bridge, which dates back to 1883. As Bentonsport's oldest and most extended bridge spanning the Des Moines River, it retains visible traces of the 1903 flood. Additionally, the nearby Bentonsport River-Side County Park provides a scenic setting enriched with trails, a playground, and a gazebo with a rose garden inside an old mill building. Besides, the Indian Artifact Museum attracts visitors with an impressive display of hand-crafted Native American tools and artifacts of all genres.
It takes only a moment to understand that the North comprises not only big cities and technological advances but also quiet, cozy communities that are alive and well. Damariscotta, with its water-based activities. Saugatuck, with its creative cuisine, and Pella, with its fascinating Dutch heritage. These small towns hold the premise of unforgettable journeys and cherished memories for all who venture to discover them. Each of the different corners of the Northern United States provides a unique and captivating experience for travelers seeking history, culture, and natural beauty.
