9 US Towns With A Slower Pace Of Life
From the Pacific Coast, the northeastern New England States, the famed Deep South, and beyond, the United States of America is undoubtedly one of the most geographically diverse and culturally varied places on Earth. Though millions visit annually, they often descend on the major cities, but as is often the case, many times, the greatest treasures are those that are hidden. The smaller towns of America offer visitors another view of the country, where a slower pace of life is evident, but excitement is never diminished. From the desert of Arizona to the coastal views of Rhode Island, here is a look at 9 smaller towns across the country that offer splendid memories for all in a less crowded setting. Here, fascinating history, cultural allure, and exquisite nature await, ready to introduce guests to Americana and charming hospitality.
Kanab, Utah
The seat of Kane County in southern Utah and near the border with Arizona, the town of Kanab is a beautiful desert getaway and, like many communities in the State, was founded by Mormon pioneers in the 19th century. Today just over 4,600 residents call Kanab home which also bills itself as “Utah’s Little Hollywood”, due to the abundance of television shows and movies that have been filmed in the area for over 60 years. These include such famous titles like “Gunsmoke”, “The Long Ranger”, and “The Outlaw Josey Wales” amongst many more. Indeed, with its hot and arid desert landscapes, it is easy to see what makes it an attractive filming destination, where hot summers and mild winters are the norm.
Enjoy time spent in the outdoors and explore exquisite natural attractions like Zion National Park, the Coral Spring Sand Dunes, and Bryce Canyon National Park. Here, awesome opportunities to go rock climbing, hiking, and biking are in abundance, and the chance to marvel at awesome canyon and valley views will definitely take one’s breath away. Add in fine eateries like the Rocking V Café and an assortment of cute novelty shops, and Kanab will definitely be on the list of places to return when visiting the “Beehive State”.
Bisbee, Arizona
The town of Bisbee is scenically situated within the Mule Mountains in southern Arizona near the Mexican border. Seat of Cochise County, Bisbee was established as a mining town in the 1880s and today a humble population of nearly 5,000 reside in this historically charming community. Stroll through the downtown district and explore several Victorian-style landmarks that harken back to the days of the Wild West. These include the County Courthouse and the famed Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum, which offer unique insights into the growth and importance of the mining industry in the American Southwest.
Meanwhile, with warm, dry winters and hot, arid summers, those looking for a true desert getaway will find it in Bisbee. Enjoy opportunities to go cycling, hiking, camping, and rock climbing amongst some of the most stunning ambiances in all of Arizona. And for those who are really looking for a unique athletic challenge, one can attempt the 1,000 Stair Climb. Spanning some four miles and over 1,000 stairs, those who partake in this run will surely have loads of memories and bragging rights to last for years to come!
Capitola, California
Capitola is one of the oldest seaside resorts in California, with a modern history that can be traced to the 1860s. Home to just under 9,500 inhabitants, this delightful town beautifully situated along Monterey Bay stands out with its cooler temperatures yet dazzles with its pretty beaches and colorful architecture. An awesome place to enjoy a quieter pace of life, Capitola is conveniently located just 35 miles from San Jose, and it is an ideal spot for a day trip or two. Spend time along Soquel Creek and admire the beautiful Spanish Colonial style architecture, while the very photogenic Venetian Court neighborhood never disappoints. Designed in the 1920s, these colorful houses and other buildings are truly postcard-perfect, and they are even listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
From there, browse through the shops at the Riverview Historic District, including Brown Ranch Marketplace and Zelda’s on the Beach Restaurant. And, of course, there is always fun to be had by sailing, fishing, swimming, and old-fashioned sunbathing in Capitola, where sparkling waters and calming beaches delight the young and old alike.
Bonners Ferry, Idaho
Located near the Canadian border at the tip of the Idaho Panhandle, the town of Bonners Ferry is a splendid gem of the Pacific Northwest region. The seat of Boundary County, the town was founded in the late 19th century as a gold rush center and today a humble population of just over 2,500 residents call it home. A great place that combines historical intrigue and natural beauty, there is certainly never a shortage of things to do in Bonners Ferry. Spend time at the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge and view animals in their natural mountain habitats, while enjoying the scenic beauty that is the Kootenay River, which is hard to beat. Relish opportunities to go sailing, swimming, fishing, camping, and even skating while the majestic Purcell, Selkirk, and Cabinet Mountains form natural sentinels.
Add in welcoming community events like the Spring Craft Fair and cute diners, including the Springs Restaurant and Lounge, and a charming picture emerges of Americana. From scenic backdrops to friendly hospitality, Bonners Ferry is a definite hotspot for a slower pace of life.
Sequim, Washington
Sequim (pronounced SKWIM) is a beautiful destination for anyone traveling the “Evergreen State” of Washington, where views of the Dungeness River and the mighty Olympic Mountains never cease to delight. Home to just over 8,200 inhabitants, Sequim is known as Washington’s sunniest town, and on average, it receives only 16 inches (400 mm) of rain each year! And with mild temperatures through winter and summer, being outside, relaxing, and enjoying a slower pace of life is easy to do here. Spend time along the aforementioned River, where quiet walks are always popular, while fishing and swimming are great ways to unwind. Meanwhile, at the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, hundreds of bird and mammal species can be admired in a picturesque natural habitat.
From there, explore the Sequim Museum & Arts, which chronicles the region’s geologic history and where one can even view excavated fossils. Add in charming cultural events like the Sequim Lavender Festival in July and loads of cute local businesses, and it becomes very clear why Sequim is indeed a gem of Washington State.
Florence, Oregon
A wonderful community along Oregon’s Pacific Coast, Florence also lies along the Siuslaw River, where guests and residents alike enjoy its splendid natural setting and cultural allure. Formally established in the 1890s (though long the home of the Siuslaw Tribe), today, nearly 9,400 reside in Florence, where the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life has never been easier. Indeed, with cool summers and mild winters, Florence is a comfortable place throughout the year, and spending time along the River and the Pacific Ocean is popular no matter the season. Admire stunning vistas and enjoy opportunities to go sailing and swimming, while at the nearby Oregon Dunes Recreation Area and the Sea Lion Caves, some of the most awesome features of Oregon’s natural landscape await, ready to truly take one’s breath away.
Meanwhile, for those looking for cultural and historical attractions, be sure to visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum. Housed inside a schoolhouse constructed in 1905, the region’s past is honored through a loving commemoration of the settlers and indigenous peoples who made this part of Oregon what it is today. Finally, of course, one cannot miss the springtime Rhododendron Flower Festival and its loving embrace of flowers, the ocean, and life! Featuring parades, the coronation of Queen Rhododendra, live music, food vendors, a car show, and more, this is definitely a very special experience for all ages. Be sure not to miss out on this 2025 season, when the festival runs from May 15 to 18.
Hudson, New York
The seat of Columbia County in east central New York, the town of Hudson, is a convenient two-hour drive from New York City, serving as a great sojourn for those looking to escape the busyness of the “Big Apple.” Home to just under 6,000 residents, this lovely town on the River of the same name is a nice place to see another side of the “Empire State” and enjoy a more intimate cultural setting. Affectionately known as the “Friendly City,” Hudson features many local business outlets highlighting the very best in local trades and craftspeople through works displayed at galleries and antique shops, as well as great dining options.
Spend time along Warren Street and browse through its shops, enjoy the sounds of the summertime Hudson Music Festival (July 31- August 4, 2025), and marvel at colonial architecture that dates as far back as the late 18th century. And do not forget about the FASNY Museum of Firefighting, which celebrates the firefighting industry through the centuries and those who put their lives on the line. Through an impressive collection of vintage equipment and old fire engines, this is indeed one of the most unique museums in New York State.
Middleburg, Pennsylvania
Middleburg is a most charming, picturesque, and historically alluring town right in the heart of Pennsylvania, with a humble population of just over 1,300 residents. The seat of Snyder County, this 18th-century community continues to retain a special historic character, and guests can explore a number of landmarks here that truly create a sense of time travel. Amongst the properties of note include the County Courthouse and the Old Stone Jail, which are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Additionally, the natural splendor of Middleburg is hard to miss, and with its location within the Susquehanna Valley, there is never a shortage of stunning panoramas. Marvel at the lush greenery and mountainous peaks while enjoying opportunities to bike and hike in a pleasant climate. From there, be sure to visit the Shade Mountain Winery, where some of Pennsylvania’s finest alcohols and spirits can be sampled and bought. And with its awesome vineyard vistas, photos galore will be sure to follow! Add in fine local eateries like Birdie’s Nest, and a truly authentic snapshot of Americana becomes evident in this friendly Pennsylvania town.
New Shoreham, Rhode Island
New Shoreham is located on Block Island (which forms a part of the New England Outer Lands), and it stands out as one of the most serene and relaxing places in the State of Rhode Island. Home to just over 1,400 inhabitants, the settlement can trace its modern history back to the 1670s, and it continues to be a popular tourist destination where spending time outdoors and enjoying a slower pace of life are never out of style. A splendid spot for sailing, fishing, swimming, cycling, hiking, and, of course, sunbathing, New Shoreham features warm summers and mild winters. And with breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean (and its cool breezes), relaxing and unplugging has never been easier.
Furthermore, with up to 40% of the island listed as a nature conservancy, the chance to see wildlife and migrating birds makes for quite a special sojourn. Finally, one cannot forget about the colonial character of the town, and several landmarks here are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the North Light (1867) and the Southeast Light (1875), where stunning views of the Mohegan Bluffs clay cliffs form the most exquisite kind of memory.
Visiting the United States can be an exciting venture, but with a nation so vast and culturally diverse, it can be difficult to know where to begin. While the major cities are always at the top of their minds, those who are looking for a quieter and more reflective holiday in America will still be able to find it through a trip to these charming small towns. From the Pacific Coast, the Atlantic Region, the desert South, and beyond, the towns on this list are certainly varied, but they all contain splendid natural beauty, historic allure, and cultural charm that make them awesome places of discovery. So come see the USA across an exploration of some of its smaller and cozier towns and gain a more intimate experience with the beauty within. It will be sure to create lasting memories that the young and old alike in any traveling party will be talking about for years to come!
