9 Undisturbed Towns To Visit In The United States
Tucked away in the quiet corners of the United States are undisturbed towns that seem to have resisted the passage of time. Often overshadowed by bustling cities, these towns offer a glimpse into a bygone era with their preserved architecture, unspoiled landscapes, and timeless traditions. From the Bavarian-inspired streets of Leavenworth and Frankenmuth, to the natural, breathtaking beauty of Sedona, these towns serve as serene reminders of a simpler way of life. Step back in time and experience the beauty of these nine undisturbed towns.
Leavenworth, Washington
Leavenworth, Washington, is a charming Bavarian-themed town within the Cascade Mountains between Seattle and Spokane. This small town is home to just over 2,260 residents, but its natural beauty, culture, and activities attract visitors. Designed to mimic a Bavarian village, Leavenworth is filled with Alpine-style European architecture. Its shops, restaurants, and bakeries serve authentic German food, beer, and treats, including pretzels, schnitzel, and bratwurst. Don't miss the Nutcracker Lady Gift Shop and the Cheesemonger's Shop, both on Front Street. Dine at Munchen Haus, also on Front Street, where they serve Haus-made apple cider, sauerkraut, and locally brewed and imported German beers.
Outdoor lovers will want to hike the Icicle Gorge Nature Loop through the Central Cascades in Leavenworth. One of the most popular trails in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, this trek is perfect for beginners, nature lovers, bird watchers, and those who just want to take a nice, long, scenic walk.
During the summertime, you can enjoy live performances at the Leavenworth Summer Theater, an outdoor amphitheater. Festivals in Leavenworth happen year-round and include Oktoberfest (in October), the Christmastown Village of Lights from late November through February, and Maifest, a celebration of the return of migratory birds to the town, in May.
Sedona, Arizona
The desert town of Sedona, Arizona, is just two hours from Grand Canyon National Park and one hour from the larger city of Flagstaff. Its population is just under 10,000, but many more visitors are drawn to the incredible red rock scenery of this unique town each year. Towering red rock formations such as Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Snoopy Rock are just a few of the breathtaking sights you will see in Sedona. These rocks offer perfect photo opportunities, as well as numerous hiking possibilities.
Sedona's downtown area is filled with dozens of art galleries that are free to explore. Check out Gallery Row along Route 179, where you will find Hyatt Pinon Pointe Shops, Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village, and Hillside Sedona. Food and drink are easy to find in Sedona as well. Check out SaltRock Southwest Kitchen on Amara Lane and The Sedona Organic Taco Company on Forest Road for delectable dishes.
Many come to Sedona for its wellness properties. Spas, retreats, and yoga centers can be found throughout the town. In particular, Amara Resort and Spa and The Wilde Resort and Spa allow visitors to relax, unwind, and recharge.
Telluride, Colorado
While many may think of Telluride as primarily a ski town, there is much more to see in this destination. This small former mining town in the Rocky Mountains has just 2,600 full-time residents but lures thousands of tourists year-round. Many are drawn to its natural beauty, one standout being Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado's tallest free-falling waterfall. This 365-foot waterfall is a popular area for hiking, biking, and ice climbing. If you climb two miles to the top of the falls, you will find a privately owned, historic power plant.
Telluride's downtown area has been designated a National Historic Landmark District, preserving its old West charm and historical Victorian-era architecture. A walk along Colorado Avenue will take you past boutiques such as Bella Fine Goods, art galleries like Telluride Galleries, and dining options, including Stronghouse Brew Pub and The Butcher & The Baker.
Although Telluride is known for being a ski resort in the wintertime, the town holds celebrated summer festivals. They include the Telluride Bluegrass Festival in June, the Telluride Jazz Festival in August, and the Telluride Film Festival over Labor Day weekend in September.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the town of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, houses just over 2,100 residents. It is one of the few entire towns listed on the National Register of Historic Places, mostly due to its Victorian architecture. Winding streets take you past historic landmarks in town like the Crescent Hotel, circa 1886, once called America's most haunted hotel; and the Eureka Springs Historical Museum, where you can learn more about the town's rich past.
Eureka Springs is also a town filled with arts and culture. Its thriving arts community contains galleries, studios, and public art displays. Art Colony Eureka Springs is on the west side of Main Street and features storefronts and art studios. Basin Spring Park downtown houses statues such as the Doughboy statue, a memorial to World War I soldiers. After you have finished seeing these sites, you can stop by The Rockin' Pig on Van Buren Street or Grotto Wood-Fired Grill and Wine Cave on Center Street for food and drinks.
The Auditorium in Eureka Springs offers live performances year-round. Seasonal festivals such as the Ozark Mountain Music Festival in January and Diversity Weekend in April are also draws for many to visit this small mountain town.
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Called "Michigan's Little Bavaria," the town of Frankenmuth, Michigan is another small-town German replica. With just under 5,000 residents, this town's picturesque architecture, flower-lined streets, and European ambiance draw many visitors year-round.
The world's largest Christmas store, Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, is a must-see in Frankenmuth. Located on the aptly-named Christmas Lane, it spans 27 acres, is open year-round, and sells an array of ornaments and decorations. Other downtown shops such as Frankenmuth River Place Shops on Main Street, bakeries like SugarHigh Bakery on Main Street, and restaurants like Zehnders and Bavarian Inn, are not to be missed.
Lazy riverboat cruises on the Cass River are another popular pastime in Frankenmuth. You might instead opt to go kayaking, paddleboarding, or just stroll along the beautiful riverside. Town-wide festivals that charm visitors and townsfolk include the Frankenmuth Snowfest in late January to early February; Balloons Over Bavarian Inn taking place Memorial Day weekend; and Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival in June
Hudson, New York
With a population just under 6,000, the small town of Hudson, New York is only two hours from New York City but feels a world away from its hustle and bustle. This vibrant Hudson Valley town mixes history with culture and natural beauty to create the perfect destination. Its streets are lined with 18th- and 19th-century buildings that showcase a mixture of Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian styles. The Hudson Area Library History Room can provide you with more information on the town's past as a 1700s whaling port.
The Olana State Historic Site on State Route 9G was voted Best Historic Site by the Albany Times-Union newspaper. This historical house, museum, and landscaped area was home to landscape artist Frederick Church, who designed the home and landscaped area. It is a National Historic Landmark and one of the few intact artists' home, studio, and estate complexes in the country.
Hudson's Warren Street in the downtown area is filled with antique dealers such as Sutter Antiques, boutique shops like Nikki Chasin, and restaurants including 225 Warren Bar and Grill. Finish your day in Hudson with a quiet, awe-inspiring sunset cruise down the Hudson River.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Grand Marais is a small, picturesque harbor town of just under 1,400 residents. The chance to gaze at the vast, shimmering waters of the lake itself is reason enough to visit this small village. Other outdoor gems in town include Harbor Park, offering breathtaking views of the lake, and Artist's Point, which houses the Grand Marais Lighthouse and rocky walking trails.
In addition to its natural beauty, Grand Marais is an artsy town, home to the Grand Marais Art Colony, the oldest art colony in the state. Here, visitors can take workshops led by local artists or view their exhibitions. For even more art, the town features art galleries such as Sivertson Gallery on Wisconsin Street; and public art installations like the sculpture of Helmer Aakvik on 4th Street West.
Grand Marais' downtown area includes restaurants serving locally-sourced food such as The Angry Trout Cafe on Highway 61; and craft beer and live music at Voyageur Brewing Company, also on Highway 61, where you can enjoy views of Lake Superior from the rooftop patio. Annually, the town holds a Fisherman's Picnic in August, and Plein Air Painting Festival each September.
Whitefish, Montana
Known as the Gateway to Glacier National Park, the town of Whitefish, Montana, in the Rocky Mountains, provides visitors with tons of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Just 25 miles from Glacier National Park, Whitefish is home to almost 8,000 residents year-round but attracts more visitors wishing to bask in the area's natural beauty or to ski in Whitefish Mountain Resort in the wintertime. That resort hosts more than 3,000 acres of terrain for skiers of all abilities.
Whitefish's charming downtown area is walkable and takes visitors past boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Central Avenue is the town's main street, filled with curiosities such as Sage & Cedar, Central Ave Bakery & Deli, and Whitefish Gift & Gear. Restaurants like Tupelo Grille and Bulldog Saloon serve locally sourced food and are a great way to end the day you spent on Central Avenue.
Town festivals include the Whitefish Winter Carnival in February and Huckleberry Days Arts Festival in August.
Stowe, Vermont
The mountain town of Stowe in northern Vermont is a quintessential New England village that beckons tourists. Although the town's population is just under 1,000, thousands visit this town in the Green Mountains each year. Known as the Ski Capital of the East, Stowe features skiing and snowboarding at the famous Stowe Mountain Resort in wintertime. During the summer, visitors love to hike Long Trail at Sterling Pond or on the Mount Mansfield Loop Trail, taking hikers up the highest mountain in the state (4,395 feet). The vibrant fall foliage of Stowe makes it one of the best places in the country to see autumn leaves changing.
Stowe's walkable downtown area allows for the exploration of art galleries such as Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft on Mountain Road and unique stores like Stowe Mercantile on Main Street. Hungry travelers might stop at Doc Ponds on Mountain Road or Harrison's Restaurant and Bar on Main Street.
Music lovers should tour the Trapp Family Lodge, an Austrian-style lodge featured in "The Sound of Music" that still functions as a working hotel. Visitors to Stowe in the winter can partake in the Stowe Winter Carnival in January, voted one of the best winter festivals in the US by Country Living magazine. In the fall, the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival in October showcases the colors of the area.
Set Your GPS for Fun and Adventure
Get ready to hit the road and discover these nine undisturbed towns in the US. Although they are known for being calm, placid, and peaceful, towns such as Stowe and Hudson are familiar to many as ideal vacation destinations. The untouched charm, beautiful natural landscapes, and enduring customs of these undisturbed towns inspire visitors with their resilience and heritage. A visit to any of these towns will be a refreshing, recharging experience.
