8 of the Most Hospitable Small Towns in the Northern United States
Comprising a wide geographic and cultural area from Maine to Washington, the northern United States is a rich and hospitable center for any potential vacation. From the northeastern hubs of New York and Pennsylvania to the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” in Minnesota and “America’s Dairyland” in Wisconsin, the wonderful towns, cultural attractions, and friendly locals in the northern part of the United States are undoubtedly special.
So when planning one’s next trip across the US, consider stopping in the hospitable towns of the North, where a special set of memories and adventures will be sure to be had by all who are seeking some of the very best in Americana.
Ithaca, New York
With a modern history dating back to the 1790s, the historic town of Ithaca remains a most fascinating and naturally beautiful locale in central New York State. Situated in the heart of the beloved Finger Lakes Region, and home to a population of just over 32,000 residents, this seat of Tompkins County is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Spend time on the shores of Cayuga Lake where swimming and sailing are always popular, while opportunities for hiking and cycling in the area are never short on picturesque vistas and splendid foliage.
Meanwhile an afternoon on the campuses of Ithaca College or Cornell University is a nice way to get the feeling of a college town in a most welcoming ambience. Add in such fun annual events like the Dragon Boat Festival or the fall Apple Festival, and a most hospitable and charming impression will surely be felt by all ages who choose to discover Ithaca.
Guilford, Connecticut
One of the oldest towns in the United States, Guilford was officially founded way back in the 1640s! Today this town of just over 22,000 inhabitants maintains its very special historic heritage, and guests will certainly never find a shortage of charming and fascinating connections to the past. With two historic districts which include an assortment of over 200 homes and landmarks spanning over two centuries, to a bevy of inviting antique shops, locally run businesses and restaurants, and insightful museums (such as the Henry Whitfield State Museum), Guilford is a most hospitable community.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also appreciate the town’s offerings, which include the wonderful Jacobs Beach and the nearby Chaffinch Island. Enjoy opportunities for sailing, biking, hiking, swimming, and even picnicking in a pleasant and quaint atmosphere perfect for an afternoon getaway.
Honesdale, Pennsylvania
The town of Honesdale was founded back in the 1820s, and today just under 4,500 residents call this seat of Wayne County home. A charming destination where historic intrigue and natural beauty come together, Honesdale is a most hospitable community right in the famed Poconos Mountains. Nearby the Delaware and Lackawaxen Rivers, respectively, boast loads of fun on the water. Choose from options like sailing, fishing, swimming, and even rafting. When not on the water welcoming hiking and biking trails are also always popular.
Do not forget about the awesome vistas of the Poconos Mountains, which truly never go out of style. Meanwhile, history afficionados can enjoy such attractions like the Wayne County Historical Society, a number of Victorian era landmarks, and even the special Stourbridge Train Line. Here scenic mountain views on an old-style caboose transport riders back in time and through some of the most picturesque corners of Pennsylvania.
Hershey, Pennsylvania
Established by businessman Milton Hershey in 1903, the town of Hershey serves as the headquarters of the famed Hershey's Chocolate Company. Founded specifically so that factory workers could have closer access to the work site, today this planned town has grown to a population of just under 14,000 residents. While not everyone in town works for the company, the town remains a chocolate lover’s paradise and the company continues to be the main economic force. A veritable “sweet” destination, guests to Hershey will not want to miss explorations of Chocolate World (including a factory tour and a most delicious and memorable souvenir shop) and the HersheyPark Theme Park.
Even the street lights in town are shaped like the beloved “Kisses” chocolate! And with street names like Cocoa and Chocolate Avenue, the whimsy and imagination of Hershey will surely delight all ages. And do not forget about ZooAmerica, where chances to see exotic wildlife in an area covering some 11 acres is another type of treat that the whole family can enjoy.
Nauvoo, Illinois
The town of Nauvoo was settled by Mormon pioneers in the mid 1800s, and its name is derived from a Hebrew phrase that means “They are beautiful”. Beautifully situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, just under 1,000 residents call this historic community home. Nauvoo’s historic importance is such, that the town in its entirety is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! Along a wide bend of the River, amongst the landmark attractions to marvel at include the Nauvoo Temple and other Greek Revival style buildings.
An afternoon at the Historic District and its splendid waterside views is a most special outing for all ages. Amongst the fun activities include boat and wagon tours that shed a special light on the significant Mormon heritage of the area. Add in friendly local restaurants and other businesses, like the Nauvoo Fudge Factory, and Nauvoo really is a fine example of a small river town with plenty of hospitable charm and warmth.
Grand Haven, Michigan
Seat of Ottawa County and on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, Grand Haven offers plenty of grand opportunities to enjoy the splendor of the outdoors. Home to just over 11,000 inhabitants, beach lovers will certainly appreciate Grand Haven which has several beach and lake side areas to explore and have fun in. Enjoy chances to go swimming, sailing, and of course sunbathing, while casual walks along the white sandy beachside never disappoint.
Amongst the most popular of destinations is the Grand Haven Boardwalk, where a fine assortment of restaurants, shopping outlets, and panoramic views bring all the charm and beauty only a waterside community can offer. In addition at the Grand Haven State Park, posing with a series of historic lighthouses is quite the special excursion, while a ride on an old-style trolley is a true time machine like outing. The “Coast Guard City” of Grand Haven is a slice of genuine Americana, filled with lake side beauty and historic charm.
Ashland, Wisconsin
Ashland is a beautiful port community beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Superior. Near the mouth of Chequamegon Bay, just under 8,000 inhabitants call this most charming and naturally stunning place home. There is never a shortage of outdoor activities and scenic places to visit in Ashland, and in addition to spending time on Lake Superior guests can explore a number of other welcoming natural marvels. These include the awesome Apostle Islands, Whittlesey Creek National Wildlife Refuge, and Bayview Park, full of great fishing spots, picnic areas, and splendid beaches!
Enjoy a show at the Chequamegon Theatre Association, or explore the offerings at the Ashland Historical Museum, there is something for a variety of interests in this most welcoming and hospitable Wisconsin town.
Bemidji, Minnesota
The seat of Beltrami County, the town of Bemidji can trace its modern history to the 1880s and today just over 15,000 inhabitants call it home. With a name derived from an Ojibwe word meaning “Lake With Crossing Waters”, the town is located on the banks of the same named Lake, which eventually feeds into the famed Mississippi River. A great place to enjoy such activities like swimming, camping, fishing, and even canoeing, Bemidji is known for its mild summer and cold winter temperatures. In addition, other nearby bodies of water like Big Wolf Lake and Lake Irving add to the veracity of Minnesota’s other name of the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”.
Add in a nice variety of cafes, restaurants, novelty stores, and other local businesses and Bemidji definitely serves as a prime example of hospitable small town America, with a flavor of Minnesota Nice. Finally one cannot forget to take a photo or two with the statues of Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, for a most authentic northern cultural folk experience!
The Northern United States is a wide-ranging geographic area. While major cities in any country continue to dominate much discussion, it is often the smaller towns that offer some of the most welcoming and charming atmospheres. The small towns in the Northern US are no different, and any traveler can find the best of America’s North through an exploration of these great hospitable communities. Though just a sampling of the vast possibilities to discover when traveling the Northern United States, it is a starting point for adventure. From natural beauty and excursions to special cultural attractions, these towns are awesome reminders of what makes Americana such a sought after part of many travel plans.
