9 of the Most Welcoming Towns in the Mid-Atlantic

The Mid-Atlanic region is an area in the northeastern United States that consists of the states of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia. The region is known for its variety of historical significance, with an abundance of landmarks and monuments that commemorate the nation's founding and early history. It is also marked as a place with stunning natural landscape, rich and diverse culture, and, of course, being rather friendly and welcoming.

What could be more welcoming than a small town in the Mid-Atlanic Region? Get away from the rush of the city and cruise along these mountainous and coastal towns that are sure to rejuvenate and leave visitors radiating with a sense of ease. 

Boone, North Carolina

Boone is known for having many activities that run through all four majestic seasons. Nationally known attractions like Grandfather Mountain, The Blue Ridge Parkway, and Tweetsie Railroad draw tourists from near and far, as does the artistic integrity of the art, cultural, and historical scene. Visit the stunning Jones House, built in 1908 by a local physician, and offer a free art gallery and historical guide to Boone. The adventure continues in the winter months, with the most concentrated cluster of ski slopes within the entire region. Snowboarding, snow tubing, sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are also thoroughly enjoyed. Make time to explore the beautiful campus of Appalachian State University and view the 11 winning sculptures of the nationally recognized Rosen Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition, as well as the Mast General Store’s old Boone Mercantile, a circa 1913 emporium brimming with old-time housewares, quality outdoor gear, and custom cookware. 

Kane, Pennsylvania 

Kane is a small, friendly community, settled sweetly at the tip of the Allegheny Forest and surrounded by a tapestry of wildlife and nature. Due to its proximity to such beauty, outdoor exploration is a must. The Kinzua Bridge State Park is one of Pennsylvania’s most impressive state parks near Mount Jewett. It was built under General Thomas Kane's direction (the town's namesake). It was partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003 and now stands tall as a towering skywalk. Numerous hiking and biking trails surround the bridge, perfect for physical activity and adventure. Allegheny National Forest, of course, is another wonder not to be missed. Miles of biking, waterfalls, and pristine trout fishing streams move through the forest, a picturesque escapade for the environmentally conscious. The historic Kane Manor Inn is a popular stay within town, a quaint bed and breakfast at the heart of the Allegheny National Forest. 

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry has the appearance of a 19th-century dream, with colorful rooftops winking in the light from the top of a rocky cliff that overlooks that serene mountain town. It has everything one could be looking for when it comes to Appalachian charm, including ambiance, friendliness, intriguing history, and breathtaking views. Visitors who thirst for history will undoubtedly be satiated as they climb the stairs to St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church, a Victorian Gothic beauty built in 1833. Move through to the national parks and walk along Maryland Heights Trail, as well as the Loudon Heights Trail, Lower Town Loop Trail, and Murphy-Chambers Farm Loop Trail, to get a taste of nature's bounty. Harpers Ferry thrives on local businesses and tourist indolence, such as Bolivar Bread for the baked good lover, or try Country Cafe for a more classic breakfast vibe. The Rabbit Hole has a lovely dining deck that looks out over the rolling hills and crisp mountainside. 

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

This one square mile community is the largest beach resort in the state of Delaware, dubbed ‘The Nation’s Summer Capital,’ to beachgoers from the Washington DC area when popularity grew. Nowadays, it is a tourist destination all year round, with people traveling nationally and even internationally. This is the place to be for beach lovers, naturally, with an assortment of water-related recreational activities like pontoon boating, dolphin watching, surfing, and general lazing in the sparkling sands. Kids will be endlessly entertained with miniature golf, arcades, and Funland, which boasts amusement rides that date back nearly five decades. There are five craft breweries to drop into for a cold one, and delicious coast cuisine is available at Bluecoast Seafood Grill. Beyond the sand, bikes can be rented and used to explore the Junction Breakwater Trail. 

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a small town of just over 2,000 people that sits at the southernmost point in New Jersey and is a year-round destination for families, couples, photographers, artists, and nature enthusiasts. It is a cute beach town known for its sandy coastline and long boardwalks that welcome visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Historic sites are aplenty as well in Cape May, enhancing the visitors' experience at Historic Cold Spring Village and The Emlyn Physick Estate. A sense of artistic inclination runs high at Cape May as well, with several seasonally specific festivals taking place in the town, as well as The Ocean City Music Pier, which is home to the Ocean City Pops and the Miss New Jersey Pageant and features a full schedule of concerts, theater, and art shows throughout the year. Restaurants range from fine, romantic dining experiences to cafes and casual bistros, all gratified beneath a glassy blue sky and warm ocean breeze. 

Chestertown, Maryland

Chestertown is the second largest district of retired 18th-century homes in Maryland, and home to Washington College, which was founded in 1782. With that in mind, it would be reasonable to note the profound history throughout the friendly college town. Art and culture are also bursting along the main street, like Garfield Center for the Arts, where plays and musicals are performed all year round, Hegland Glass is displayed, as well as the Massoni Art Gallery. Pets are welcome everywhere visitors roam in Chestertown, whether it be a guest cottage or a stately manor like the tranquil Inn A Mitchell House, an 18th-century stone manor. Traveling foodies will adore the ample options of Chesapeake Bay cuisine, as it is located on the Upper Eastern Shore Section of the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail. Modern and customary options are bailable at Figg’s Ordinary, a gluten-free cafe, as well as the classic brewpubs with local craft beer and wood-fired pizzas at Bad Alfred’s. 

Shepherdstown, West Virginia

This town is known for possessing a perfect balance of a casual cafe vibe blended with a fascinating history. Escape the noise of Washington DC and drive only ninety minutes out of the city to discover a world of creative expression and a serene feel that make visitors happily dawdle. Shepherdstown is home to the acclaimed Contemporary American Theatre Festival, classical performances at Shepherd University, and a local live music scene found within street festivals and local pubs and restaurants. Due to its vicinity to the Potomac River and its tributaries around town, Shepherdstown also acts as an outdoor hub, with activities like boating rafting, tubing, and kayaking to pick from. Historical education is unavoidable, with Little House, a farm built in 1929, and the Historic Shepherdstown Museum directly inside the town’s vicinity. Various farmers’ markets are available within the town, showcasing succulent local fruits and vegetables, artists, and musical performances. 

Lake George, New York

Lake George has been a welcoming vacation oasis for nearly two centuries, with Thomas Jefferson famously quoting it as' the most beautiful water I ever saw.’ With its 109 miles of shoreline and 300+ islands, Lake George is the epitome of breathtaking Adirondack wilderness, with hotels, cabins, campsites, and charming lakeside eateries that solidify it as a remarkable destination for all types of personalities. Cruise along Lake George self with the Lake George Steamboat Company, which has been running for over 200 years, and take in the panorama of mountainsides and glossy waters. Drink in history at the many monuments scattered throughout the 35-acre Battlefield Park, or listen in to the ghost stories at Fort William Henry. Adventure seekers cannot miss the 100-mile visa atop Prospect Mountain, reached via hiking or biking. Dinner at the Boathouse Restaurant, with its private docking directly on the lake, will make lovers swoon. 

Saint Micheals, Maryland

This laid-back town welcomes visitors from far and wide and is named one of USA Today’s Top 10 Best Small Coastal Towns. Only a few hour's drive out of Washington, Philadelphia, and New Jersey, St. Micheals shimmers as a quaint historic town with a lovely harbor and cozy B and B’s. Like any coast town, various water activities are offered along the Chesapeake Bay, like sailing, fishing, boating, kayaking, and even cocktail cruises for the sommeliers. Explore multiple museums like the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, the St. Micheals Museum at St. Mary’s Square, or the Classic Motor Museum. Satiate hunger for sublime seafood at the Crab Claw, or quench your thirst at Eastern Shore Brewing. Support local musicians at many live performance venues, like The Galley Saint Micheals or the Carpenter Street Saloon. 

Tranquility in the Heart of the Mid-Atlantic

From the historic streets of Chestertown, Maryland, to the serene shores of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, these towns offer a perfect blend of tranquility, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in Boone, North Carolina's mountainous landscape, or looking to immerse yourself in the artistic vibrancy of Cape May, New Jersey, the Mid-Atlantic region holds a unique charm that beckons to be explored.