7 Delightful Towns To Visit In The Northern United States
The Northern United States boasts a variety of scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming local culture. The region is home to several delightful towns that art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs enjoy exploring. From witnessing one of the earliest sunrises in Bar Harbor, Maine, to soaking in the breathtaking Northern Rocky Mountains in Whitefish, Montana, these towns are just as diverse as their landscapes. Whether experiencing the eclectic art scene in Grand Marais, Minnesota, or the rich German heritage in Frankenmuth, Michigan, these northern towns offer a unique mix of natural beauty and historic attractions.
Sister Bay, Wisconsin
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan is Sister Bay, Wisconsin, a charming coastal town that offers a mix of outdoor activities and historic beauty. The town's waterfront is a focal point, featuring Sister Bay Beach, where nature enthusiasts can relax and enjoy stunning views of Green Bay. The beachfront is also a favorite spot for swimming, sunbathing, and kayaking in the peaceful waters. More delightful outdoor adventures await at the Three Springs Nature Preserve, with 515 acres to explore. Visitors can walk, hike, and bike along the scenic trails along the wetlands.
For a peaceful retreat, visit the Country House Resort, which offers serene walking paths, beautiful gardens year-round, and a private beach. Nearby are the Old Anderson House Museum and the Corner of the Past historic buildings, providing a unique glimpse into the town’s past. History buffs will enjoy learning about Sister Bay becoming its own village in 1912, as well as viewing the 1875 farmhouse and sixteen historic buildings.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Located between the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior, it may not be surprising that Grand Marais, Minnesota, is a haven for nature lovers. However, the town is also renowned for its eclectic art scene and history. Bordered by the Superior National Forest, Grand Marais is a great basecamp for outdoor adventures, such as hiking or skiing along the 15 miles of trails on the Pincushion Mountain Trail System. For those wanting to explore nature from the comfort of their car, cruise along the 57-mile Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway. The trail provides a scenic drive through the wilderness, perfect for spotting moose and wildflowers and enjoying views of both Lake Superior and the Canadian border.
In town, be sure to check out the incredible artwork on display at local galleries, such as the Johnson Heritage Post Art Gallery, named after local artist Anna C. Johnson from the early 1900s. Afterward, take the Public Art Tour by foot or car to view 20 works on display throughout the charming town. A natural masterpiece on the town's rocky peninsula is Artist's Point, where artists love to paint, photograph, and capture the area's beauty. Artist’s Point also leads to the historic Grand Marais Lighthouse, built in 1885, where visitors can stroll along the picturesque breakwater.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Known as "Michigan's Little Bavaria," Frankenmuth offers a unique blend of German culture, architecture, and history. Stroll along the Cass River, take a relaxing boat ride on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat, or enjoy riverside dining at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant with authentic German dishes. Afterward, take a short drive to Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store, which is a must-visit for holiday enthusiasts. Then, explore the nearby Silent Night Memorial Chapel, modeled after the original in Oberndorf/Salzburg, Austria, where the iconic Christmas carol "Silent Night" was first performed on Christmas Eve in 1818.
Beyond its unique attractions, Frankenmuth celebrates its rich German culture and heritage. Start at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum to learn about the town's founding, then drive across the Holz Brücke Covered Bridge, designed in 19th-century German style. Finish the tour with a visit to Michigan’s Military and Space Heroes Museum, home to the largest collection of Medals of Honor in the country.
Cape May, New Jersey
The charming coastal town of Cape May, New Jersey, is known for its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks. The southernmost point in New Jersey, Cape May, is a great spot for those looking for scenic outdoor activities along the Atlantic Ocean. The town’s Sunset Beach is a perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset over Delaware Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts can swim, kayak, and even skimboard in the beautiful waters. For those seeking outdoor activities with historic charm, check out Cape May Point State Park. Home to scenic hiking trails, park visitors can also tour the historic Cape May Lighthouse, built in 1859. The park is also one of the best places in the United States for birding since it is along a major migratory route for several species in the spring and fall.
In town, history buffs can explore the town’s many museums. The Harriet Tubman Museum provides a glimpse into the town's rich history, celebrating the life and legacy of the famous abolitionist who lived in Cape May during the 1850s and helped people who were enslaved escape to Canada. Nearby is the Cape May Fireman’s Museum, featuring a 1928 antique fire engine and other historical firefighter memorabilia. History buffs can also learn more about the seaside town at the Colonial House Museum, located in a house from the 1700s, and view the fascinating Space Shuttle Tree that germinated on the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor, Maine, is a cozy resort town that serves as the gateway to Acadia National Park. The park offers stunning natural landscapes, including Cadillac Mountain, with views of the earliest sunrise in the United States. Explore the park's numerous lakes and forests, perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy a breathtaking 27-mile drive through the park along seaside cliffs and lush forests. For a unique adventure, sail on Frenchman Bay for a unique perspective of the coastline while seal watching and lobster fishing aboard Miss Samantha with the town’s Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company.
Along with its scenic outdoor activities, the quaint town offers history and museums to explore. Visit the Abbe Museum to learn about the region's Native American history and the Wabanaki Nations. Then, discover Maine’s wildlife at the Dorr Museum of Natural History, open from June through September.
Woodstock, Vermont
Not to be confused with the famous Woodstock Music and Art Fair in 1969, Woodstock, Vermont, is an ideal New England town with picturesque landscapes and historic charm. Visit the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, with sugar maples, hemlocks, covered bridges, and 20 miles of trails to explore. For history lovers, the park features George Perkins Marsh’s 1800s mansion, which is part of the Civil War Home Front Walking Tour. As an important homefront community during the war, visitors to Woodstock can take a tour of 14 historic locations around town.
Adding to Woodstock’s natural beauty, the Ottauquechee River runs through the town, providing scenic spots for picnicking and photography. Situated near the river is Billings Farm and Museum, providing a unique view of Vermont's agricultural history and rural heritage. Guests can explore what life on a dairy farm was like in the 1890s, pet farm animals, stroll along the breathtaking Walking Trail, or explore the farm’s scenic gardens.
Whitefish, Montana
Nestled at the edge of Glacier National Park in the Northern Rocky Mountains, Whitefish, Montana, is a delightful place to visit in the northern United States. This charming town offers the perfect blend of rustic adventure and cultural experiences. Just 20 miles from Whitefish is Glacier National Park, where visitors can explore over a million acres of wilderness and more than 700 miles of hiking trails in the stunning Rocky Mountains. For those wanting to explore nature in town, check out Whitefish Lake State Park. With 25 campsites, hiking and biking trails, and many water activities, the park offers something for all outdoor explorers.
Along with its breathtaking scenic beauty, culture thrives in this friendly town. Performance art enthusiasts can enjoy concerts, plays, and musicals at the Alpine Theatre Project, founded in 2004 by Broadway actors. Along with its thriving performance arts community, Whitefish is also home to an eclectic art scene. Stroll along the charming downtown area while viewing works by more than 20 local artists at the Cawdrey Gallery, as well as western painters and sculptors at the Dick Idol Signature Gallery.
Charming Northern United States Towns
Exploring the Northern United States offers a delightful journey through towns filled with natural beauty and historic charm. From the picturesque landscapes and Civil War history of Woodstock, Vermont, to the serene coastal beauty of Sister Bay, Wisconsin, each town offers a memorable escape. Whether soaking in the sun along scenic beaches in Cape May, New Jersey, or taking a scenic drive in Grand Marais, Minnesota, these northern towns offer the perfect getaway for all visitors.
