12 Serene US Small Towns For A Weekend Retreat
According to the US Census Bureau, as of 2020, there are approximately 19,500 incorporated places in the United States. These diverse small towns provide travelers with unique opportunities to see parts of the country that may not be as famous as the larger cities, which they may have already visited. If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful weekend getaway, look no further than these 12 serene small towns dotted across the United States.
Boothbay, Maine
Searching for a serene New England coastal getaway? Check out Boothbay. Also referred to as Boothbay Harbor, Boothbay in Lincoln County, Maine, has a population of just over 3,000 per the US Census (2023). Natural beauty abounds here, as exemplified by the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, one of New England's largest botanical gardens, with many varieties of flowers and greenery. Hikers will enjoy the Boothbay Region Land Trust's miles of hiking trails. Whale-watching trips are another popular pastime in Boothbay, as the harbor is prime whale feeding grounds.
Boothbay Harbor Inn provides comfortable waterfront lodging at affordable prices. Waterfront restaurants are plentiful and include HarborSide 1901 Bar and Grill, Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar & Restaurant, and McSeagull's Restaurant. Sherman's Bookstore and Janson's Clothing Store are independent shops in town that should not be missed. Take as many complimentary rides on the Trolley around Boothbay from Memorial Day Weekend through mid-October as you wish. The entire loop around town takes about an hour.
Fredericksburg, Texas
A small town of just under 12,000 people in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is a town that was settled by German immigrants in 1846. Today, that history is preserved in town, as local restaurants specialize in German cuisine, and historic buildings like the Pioneer Museum and National Museum of the Pacific War help to explain the town's heritage.
For those interested in presidential history, the United States' 36th president, Lyndon B. Johnson, a native of Gillespie County, is buried just 20 minutes from Fredericksburg. If you are more interested in modern-day luxuries, visit spots such as Above and Beyond Day Spa on Main Street. Secluded accommodations are available at Hoffman Haus Bed and Breakfast, within walking distance of downtown. When you're hungry, check out Hondo's on Main or Jack's Chophouse, also on Main Street. Fredericksburg's own "Fred Bus" provides public transportation around town and the local area.
Lewes, Delaware
Located in Sussex County, the beach town of Lewes, home to 3,000 people, dates back to 1631 when its Dutch founders named it Zwaanendael; however, it was renamed by William Penn in 1685. The peaceful beauty of this coastal town contrasts with the more bustling nearby beach towns of Dewey and Rehoboth, and appeals to those looking for a serene weekend getaway. Cape Henlopen State Park's 5,000 acres beckon many who crave its quiet natural beauty, as well as its miles of hiking trails.
The Dogfish Inn on the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal offers 16 rooms of comfortable lodging. Tours of the Dogfish Brewery and Distillery are also available. The Historic Lewes Farmers Market is open Saturday mornings and showcases foods from local growers. Restaurants are plentiful in Lewes, including Irish Eyes Pub & Restaurant and Agave Restaurant & Bar. Especially in the summer months, it is possible to enjoy a quiet stay at the beach in Lewes.
Dorset, Vermont
In Bennington County, Vermont, the tiny town of Dorset, founded in 1761, is home to around 400 residents and provides a peaceful retreat during any time of the year. Situated between the Taconic and Green Mountain Ranges, opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing are available depending upon when you visit. Owls Head Town Forest, consisting of 30 acres atop Owls Head Mountain, is a popular outdoor recreational spot.
White Doe Farm, a farmhouse on 10 acres just seven minutes from town, provides lodging for up to 50 guests. The Dorset Union Store, one of Vermont's oldest country stores, founded in 1816, is still open today and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Dorset Exchange Consignment Gallery sells quality pre-owned clothing and goods. The larger city of Manchester is just seven miles from Dorset down Vermont Route 30, if you wish to explore its offerings as well.
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
With a population just under 19,000, the town of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, is also known as the art hub of the Gulf Coast. If you're looking for a quiet, southern beach getaway with a lively art scene, Ocean Springs is the place for you. Founded in 1699, Ocean Springs commemorates its founding today through Fort Maurepas Park, the site of the landing of its founder, Pierre d'Iberville. Another important historical landmark in Ocean Springs is the Mississippi Vietnam Veterans Memorial, established in Gulf Islands National Seashore Park.
The Inn of Ocean Springs provides luxurious guest suites in a historic home at reasonable rates. Downtown art galleries and centers include the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Hillyer House. Popular eateries such as Pleasant's BBQ and KnuckleHeads are also found in the downtown area of Ocean Springs. The Coast Transit Authority offers public transportation throughout Ocean Springs and to and from other nearby towns such as Gulfport and Biloxi.
Wellsboro, Pennsylvania
Wellsboro is better known as the small town containing the majestic Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. Sitting in the Appalachian Mountains in Tioga County, Pennsylvania, Wellsboro is a quiet mountain town that is home to about 3,500 people. There is much to do in Wellsboro, including hiking and biking on the trails in the area. If you are brave and physically fit enough, you may even choose to hike into the 1000-foot-deep, nearly 50-mile-long gorge of the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania.
The Penn Wells Hotel provides affordable, comfortable lodging in the heart of town. Its Mary Wells' room offers fine dining nightly. Other popular eateries in town include the Wellsboro Diner, a classic diner experience with a Train Car style; Log Cabin Inn restaurant, with a focus on local cuisine; and The Roost restaurant/pub, also serving locally sourced food. The larger cities of Williamsport, Pennsylvania (50 miles to the south) and Corning, New York (40 miles to the north) are also worth a visit during your Wellsboro getaway.
Ruidoso, New Mexico
Surrounded by the Sierra Blanca Mountains, the town of Ruidoso, New Mexico, population just over 7,600, houses the southernmost ski resort in the US, Ski Apache. Even if you are not a skier, or if you choose to visit Ruidoso during another time of the year, you will find much to do in this quiet town full of Native American culture. White Sands National Monument, a pristine natural area full of white sand dunes and breathtaking sunsets, is just minutes away.
While there are many active and noisy things to do in the area, here, we will focus on activities conducive to a serene getaway. Ruidoso's Mountain Art Gallery on Sudderth Drive sells the finest southwestern art and decor. DJs Jewelry on Carrizo Canyon Road sells one-of-a-kind Native American jewelry. The Blue Lotus Healing Arts Center, also on Sudderth Drive, is a day spa offering massage therapy and other tranquil luxuries. Stay at the Ruidoso River Resort on Eagle Drive, along Rio Ruidoso, for a peaceful, comfortable getaway. Eateries in Ruidoso range from cafes like Tina's Cafe to The Cantina at Billy the Kid Casino.
Banner Elk, North Carolina
Near the larger city of Boone in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the North Carolina High Country, Banner Elk, population just over 1,100, is the perfect mountain getaway. Its town motto is "Escape. Unwind. Indulge." Whether you choose to do so by hiking some of the tallest peaks east of the Rocky Mountains, visiting the town's unique shops, or sampling its culinary delights, there are so many ways that you can relax and enjoy Banner Elk.
Lodging is available through Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals, a service that rents cabins of all sizes right in the heart of the mountains. A must-see for outdoor lovers is Grandfather Mountain, just 20 minutes from the town of Banner Elk, one of the state's most popular outdoor attractions. Hiking, viewing wildlife, visiting the Nature Museum, and walking on the Mile High Swinging Bridge are all popular pastimes here. Or perhaps you'd rather shop at Banner Elk's stores, including Erick's Cheese and Wine Shop or BE Artists Gallery. When it's time to eat, choices abound, from Bayou Banner Elk serving Texas-Louisiana cuisine to The Town Tavern, a casual spot to grab a bite or a drink.
Sedona, Arizona
Just two hours from Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, the small town of Sedona, home to just under 10,000 residents, is a popular destination for many who are drawn to its purported healing and wellness properties. Sedona's famed and beautiful red rocks are thought by many to provide balance and a connection with nature to those who visit this desert town. Its beautiful red rock formations, like Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, and Snoopy Rock, are popular with hikers and photographers.
Also known as an art hub, Sedona's downtown area is filled with art galleries, most of which are free to visit. They include Sedona Arts Center, Rowe Fine Art Gallery, and Honshin Fine Art. Uptown Sedona, at the intersection of Arizona Route 89A and 179, houses more art galleries, gift shops, and restaurants. Canyon Breeze Restaurant, offering outdoor seating, and Hideaway House are favorite eateries of hungry and thirsty travelers. Courtyard Sedona, on Route 89A, situated within the red rock mountains and five miles south of Sedona's bustling city center, provides quiet, spacious accommodations.
Leavenworth, Washington
A small town of just under 2,500 people in the Cascade Mountains in the Pacific Northwest, Leavenworth, Washington, is about a two-hour drive from Seattle. This small Bavarian village feels miles away from the big city atmosphere, with its serene natural beauty and unique experiences offered. Visit for the Bavarian atmosphere alone, as the town resembles a German alpine village, complete with authentic architecture, food, and music. German-themed festivals are offered year-round, including Oktoberfest and the town's annual Christmas Lighting Festival.
Outdoor lovers will enjoy hiking in the Cascades, especially the Icicle Ridge and the Colchuck Lake Trail. Hotel Leavenworth is in the heart of downtown Leavenworth and provides Bavarian-themed, charming accommodations. Shop at the town's unique boutiques, including Leavenworth Boutique and Remedy Forest & Home. Famished travelers can satiate their hunger and thirst in Leavenworth's many eateries, such as Munchen Haus and Bear Bear. If you're looking for a quiet getaway in a town with the charm of a European village and the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Leavenworth is the perfect retreat.
Oakland, Maryland
Nestled right up against the border with West Virginia is the town of Oakland, in Garrett County, Maryland, with a population of just over 1,800. This small town houses the Garrett County Historical Museum, with area artifacts, as well as the Garrett County Transportation Museum, showcasing vehicles from various eras. As Oakland sits at an elevation of 2,451 feet in the Appalachian Mountains, it is the ideal eastern mountain getaway town if you're seeking quiet natural beauty combined with low-key activities.
Recreational opportunities abound at Swallow Falls State Park, with its 53-foot-high Muddy Creek Falls and many trails. Herrington Manor State Park, also in Oakland, houses Herrington Lake and more trails. Cove Creek Lodge on Garrett Highway provides refined lakeside lodging in an upscale boutique hotel setting. Shoppers in Oakland won't want to miss Englander's, an antiques store combined with an old-time lunch counter and soda fountain serving breakfast and lunch. Other eateries in Oakland include Dutch's at Silver Tree, which has vegetarian and vegan options, and Ace's Run Restaurant and Pub, situated along the beautiful Deep Creek Lake.
Luray, Virginia
The county seat of Page County, the small town of Luray, population just over 4,800, is nestled in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the east and the Massanutten Mountains to the west. It is best known for its breathtaking scenic beauty, and its proximity to Lake Arrowhead, Luray Caverns, and Shenandoah National Park. A visit to Luray provides the ideal quiet weekend getaway.
Luray Caverns, a vast underground cave system with walkways and unusual rock formations, is internationally known as one of the largest and most popular caverns in the eastern United States. Touring these natural wonders is a must for any visit to Luray. Comfortable, spacious accommodations are available at Hawksbill House Bed and Breakfast in Luray, with a continental breakfast provided fresh daily. Eateries in town include Ollie Cat Cafe, Il Vesuvio Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, and Triple Crown BBQ. Popular shops in the downtown area are Hawksbill Trading Company, Nest & Hive, and Virginia Gift Shop.
Small towns in the United States have much to offer those who are looking for quieter weekend getaways, away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Whether you crave the desert splendor of Sedona, the coastal appeal of Boothbay, or the mountain vistas offered in Luray, visiting any of these dozen serene small towns will offer you a chance to unplug, unwind, relax, and recharge in an ideal setting.
