Tag: Towns

Avoid The Beach Towns And Visit These Historic Towns This Memorial Day

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The start of summer is right around the corner, and for many, the next holiday they have free from work is Memorial Day.

It’s no wonder that almost 40 million Americans travel during Memorial Day weekend, many favoring a road trip over air travel, and most of them staying within a 50-mile radius of home.

As the official start of summer, it’s natural that most people like to hit the beach for Memorial Day, but the crowds, traffic, and parking they face usually take away from the enjoyment of the trip.

One way to avoid the beach crowds is to head away from the shoreline and instead celebrate Memorial Day by checking out some more historic towns.

Luckily, as part of their 10 Best series, USA Today has named the top 10 historic small towns to visit across America.

While most of these places have some connection to war heroes or military history, they are all deeply steeped in history.

So, Just In Time For Memorial Day, Here Are the 10 Best Historic American Small Towns, According to USA Today:

San Elizario, Texas

This small Texan border town has a history of over 400 years and makes a perfect day trip from nearby El Paso.

According to the National Park Service, San Elizario was picked as a strategic point as a military stronghold on New Spain’s western frontier.

The town charms visitors with its adobe structures that have been historically preserved, as well as its San Elizario Presidio Chapel, located in the center of town.

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Abilene, Kansas

There are a few reasons the small Kansas town of Abilene was chosen as one of the top 10 historic small towns in America, but the main one is that this is the hometown of 5 Star General and 34th President Of The United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower.

There is lots to do here, from wild-west reenactments to museums and historical sites, not to mention a thriving dining and hotel scene.

Wickford, Rhode Island

Those looking to stay by the shore can check out the historic harbor town of Wickford, loaded about a 20-minute drive from the larger and more well-known Newport.

Originally a small filing village, Wickford now showcases classic storefronts along its streets, colonial homes, fine dining options, churches, gardens, and many other laid-back sites to take in.

Wallace, Idaho

You can find this authentic and unique town in North Idaho, in the state’s panhandle.

Originally a mining town, it was destroyed by a fire in the 1900s known as the “Big Burn” and has since come into its own as a bigger and more tourist-driven town.

Once one of the largest silver producers in the world, Wallace now has many things to do, including mining tours.

Cody, Wyoming

Founded by William “Buffalo Bill” Cody in the 1890s in attempts to capitalize on the newfound tourism boom of the nearby Yellowstone National Park, Cody is one small historic town that should not be missed and makes an easy stop on any Yellowstone trip.

Don’t miss visiting any of the five museums, one being, of course, the Buffalo Bill Museum.

Wickenburg, Arizona

A classic gold mining town, Wickenburg now features a Historic Walking Tour, which offers visitors the chance to take in 30 sites of history.

One classic building is the iconic train depot, dating back to the 1890s.

Considered by some to be a desert oasis, this is one historic town that really can give those who visit a glimpse into the wild west.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Probably the most well-known town on this list, Williamsburg is not exactly a secret.

Though it’s still a small town at heart, visitors can take in Colonial Williamsburg, nearby Yorktown, and the Jamestown settlement.

Its cobblestone streets are still home to many horse-drawn carriages, and oak trees drip over white picket fences.

A major Civil War site, history buffs will love spending Memorial Day amongst the historic ambiance.

Yorktown, Virginia

Only 11 miles down the road from Williamsburg lies Yorktown, which is a charming place known for both its important place in U.S. history as well as its small-town waterfront feel.

It’s here in Yorktown that General George Washington led his army to victory over the British and secured independence for America.

Imagine watching a Memorial Day parade in a place as historic as this; the idea could win over even the non-military history fan in your life.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

OK, first things first. Mackinac Island has no cars. Like none. Nobody has a car for personal use, and people walk, bike, or take horse-drawn carriages to get around.

While here, visitors like to take in the scenic views on this three-mile-long, two-mile-wide island.

Since becoming a holiday destination in the 19th century, much has remained unchanged about this quaint little place.

Visit the historic forts and see some of the oldest houses in all of Michigan when you go, and make time for the amazing restaurants as well.

Port Gamble Washington

Port Gamble was once a booming town centered around the mills and used to be one of the main sources of lumber for many worldwide cities.

Now Port Gamble is a National Historic Landmark and has been called “the finest example of a nineteenth-centric Pacific Coast logging community.”

This quaint waterfront town seems straight out of New England, and some visitors come here for some spooky reasons.

Many of the historic buildings are said to be haunted, leading to the Port Gamble Ghost Conference each Winter.

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April 7, 2023
These 10 Small Towns Were Just Named Best In The Southern United States
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The Southern United States has no shortage of charming small towns.

Popular lifestyle magazine Southern Living just released its annual list of the best small towns in the Southern United States, and some new contenders and old favorites appear on the 2023 list.

Here are the best small towns in the Southern U.S. to add to your bucket list:

1. Saint Augustine, Florida

Saint Augustine tops the list of the best small towns in the Southern United States.

This historic Florida town, which the Spanish originally founded in 1565, is famous for being the oldest town in the United States.

When visiting Saint Augustine, you’ll be transported back in time as you stroll down quaint cobblestone streets lined with Spanish moss-draped trees.

Some of the best things to do in Saint Augustine include visiting the 17th-century Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, taking a boat tour or hitting the beach, and having some delicious Spanish food in one of the historic town’s many restaurants, like the famous Columbia Restaurant.

2. Beaufort, South Carolina

Beaufort is one of the most charming small towns in the South Carolina Lowcountry. This coastal town is located on Port Royal Island and is known for its stately antebellum mansions.

Aside from beautiful architecture, Beaufort is home to an ancient maritime forest filled with palmetto and pine trees. One of the best things to do in town is watch the sunset over the river from the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park before going out to dinner.

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3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Another one of the best small towns in the Southern United States is Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This quaint town is popular with families because of the abundance of family-friendly activities nearby.

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most visited national park in the United States. There are tons of hikes for all skill levels that you can do at the national park.

There are also many adventure parks and other activities near Gatlinburg, where you can enjoy adventures like ziplining, cable cars, hanging bridges, and more.

4. Dahlonega, Georgia

Dahlonega, Georgia is another Southern small town that is perfect for families and nature lovers. Located less than 1.5 hours north of Atlanta, this small town’s claim to fame is being the site of the Georgia gold rush in the early 1800s.

To this day, a popular activity in Dahlonega is panning for gold, which kids are sure to love.

Dahlonega is also the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, which offers many activities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. And finally, the town is home to a burgeoning restaurant scene.

5. Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Blowing Rock is a tiny town tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Located off the famous Blue Ridge Parkway scenic route, this town is named for the 4,000-foot cliff that offers sweeping views of the surrounding gorge and mountains.

Aside from climbing Blowing Rock, there are plenty of other hikes to do and outdoor activities like whitewater rafting to try nearby. The town itself is also home to a great art and history museum, restaurants, and boutique shopping.

More Best Small Towns In The Southern U.S.

Looking for more great small towns in the South? The remainder of the top 10 best towns in the Southern United States were:
- Fairhope, Alabama
- Tybee Island, Georgia
- Sanibel, Florida
- Folly Beach, South Carolina
- Fredericksburg, Texas
You can read the full list of the 50 best small towns in the Southern United States for 2023 on Southern Living‘s website.

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March 13, 2023
These 5 Cozy Coastal Towns Have Just Been Rated The Best In The U.S.
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Big city or small town? This is one of the oldest questions to answer when planning a trip, especially in a country as large and vast as America. While the U.S. has its share of exciting and glamorous big cities to visit, it’s the smaller and more laid-back towns that are starting to gain more attention recently.

Lake towns are trending this year for American travelers, and luckily there is a seemingly endless amount to explore in every state. Those looking to take a trip are also searching out the many beaches of the U.S. as well recently, and it seems most travelers are looking to get out to the water for their next vacation.

While beaches and lake towns are undoubtedly great options, does anything beat the unique appeal of a cozy coastal town?

Wandering around a charming main street with mom-and-pop shops, interacting with friendly locals, and enjoying the beaches and waterfront of a smaller town has a certain peaceful feeling to it.

USA Today is focusing many of its Readers Choice 2023 Polls on America’s small towns, and voters are choosing their favorites for a variety of categories. One recent list is dedicated to the best small coastal towns, and these top 5 offer something for everyone.

Here are the top 5 Cozy Coastal Towns in the U.S., according to a USA Today reader poll:

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No. 1: Sandusky, Ohio

Located on the shore of Lake Erie, you can find Sandusky; just look for the 17 world-class roller coasters peeking above the tree line and listen for the screams of the thrill seekers that brave these record-breaking giants.

Sandusky ranks high among families for its famed Cedar Point, one of America’s favorite amusement parks. Sandusky is also known as Ohio’s water park capital due to the number of year-round indoor water parks that it offers, one favorite being Great Wolf Lodge.

In addition to those coming for the rides and slides, there is the Children’s Museum and Merry-Go-Round Museum to visit as well. The quaint downtown area of Sandusky has shopping, galleries, restaurants, bars, and other attractions to keep everyone busy and offers fun for all ages.

No. 2: Stuart, Florida

Situated among Florida’s Treasure Coast, just north of Jupiter Island, you can find the charming small town of Stuart. Popular with sport fishermen nationwide, Stuart offers every type of fishing you can imagine, from sail to bay and river fishing.

Aside from angling, Stuart is known for its numerous art galleries and working artist studios, not to mention the charming small restaurants and antique shops, all offering a respite from that famous Florida heat. Centered around the famous Lyric Theatre, Stuart’s downtown underwent a transformation about 25 years ago and is now refurbished to its antique 1920s charm.

No. 3: Marblehead, Massachusetts

This coastal gem along Massachusetts’ North Shore region is not too far from Boston or Salem, making it a perfect weekend getaway and a much quieter option. A historical town dating back to the 1600’s Marblehead offers a wealth of things to do along its stunning coastline.

With parks, beaches, great restaurants, shopping, and of course, coastal views, there is enough to fill your time in this cozy coastal town. Gaze at the lighthouse or visit Fort Sewall; no matter how you choose to spend your time here, you are sure to feel calm among the sea breeze.

No. 4: Bayfield, Wisconsin

Known by many as the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, the small harbor town of Bayfield is a favorite amongst travelers for many reasons. Not only can you experience some serious natural beauty, but you can also enjoy the many other charms of this cozy coastal town.

With a large arts and crafts community here, there are many original shops lining the main street, Rittenhouse Avenue. With endless options such as kayaking the islands, hiking the trails, and enjoying one of the numerous food and music festivals that take place all year, Bayfield charms all those who make the trip here.

No. 5: Provincetown, Massachusetts

Those who venture to the furthest tip of Massachusetts’s Cape Cod will find themselves in Provincetown, a charming and welcoming community. This sandy-shored beach town lies at the edge of the country, about 60 miles out into the sea, and therefore people say it holds a special kind of magic.

Extremely LGBTQ+ friendly, this inclusive atmosphere makes everyone feel at home among the beaches, galleries, restaurants, and unique shops. An area rich with history, Provincetown is the oldest working art colony in America, and visitors will notice the expressive and free atmosphere that it still holds today.

For those interested, the next 5 towns to round out the top 10 best small coastal towns are:
- No. 6: St. Augustine, Florida
- No. 7: Sanibel Island, Florida
- No. 8: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
- No. 9: Nags Head, North Carolina
- No. 10: Cannon Beach, Oregon
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March 7, 2023
6 Under The Radar Mexican Towns Worth Visiting This Year

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Travel to Mexico is more popular than ever before. In 2022 alone, more than 20 million international tourists visited Mexico, with over 13 million coming from the United States. So what are the best Mexican towns that are under the radar?

With the majority of visitors flocking to the popular resort areas of Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta, it is not surprising that those areas are frequently at capacity and full of tourists.

But Mexico is so much more than tourist-centered beach towns and all-inclusive hotels. If you are interested in exploring more of Mexico and don’t know where to start, why not try one of these culturally rich under the radar Mexican towns this year?

Guanajuato City

Guanajuato City is a vibrant, artsy, colonial city in central Mexico, about 5 hours from Mexico City. It has long been a popular destination for Mexicans and has recently been gaining popularity with international tourists. Packed with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, Guanajuato City is begging visitors to wander and explore.

Visitors to Guanajuato City enjoy snapping romantic photos in the Alley of the Kiss, taking in the sights during a walk down Calle de Sopeña, and exploring the old mining tunnels under the city. Tourists who enjoy the darker side of life have options too. Popular dark tourist sites include the Museum of the Mummies and the haunted Calle del Truco.

Pátzcuaro

The charming colonial town of Pátzcuaro in the state of Michoacan is a popular Day of the Dead destination for domestic and international tourists. Each day, artisans, greengrocers, and food vendors set up fantastic markets throughout the town. Additionally, visitors can shop in Casa de los Once Patios and buy snacks and souvenirs straight from the producers.

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Lake Patzcuaro and its picturesque Janitzio Island are just north of the town center and are popular day trips for visitors. The island is topped with a giant statue of Jose Maria Morelos, a revolutionary hero whose likeness you can climb up and take in spectacular views of the surrounding lake and towns.

Comitán de Dominguez

Comitán is one of four Pueblos Mágicos in Chiapas, and it is one that truly lives up to its reputation. Packed with museums, incredible food, and a colorful and welcoming town center, Comitán is a great place to visit. Its location in southern Chiapas also makes it a great base for exploring other nearby sights.

Visitors who spend time in Comitán rave about the food at the many street vendors and restaurants throughout the town. The museums are also popular with tourists and are a great way to learn more about the region’s culture and history. Most popular is Dr. Belisario Dominquez’s Home Museum, which tells the story of its famous past resident and town hero.

San Cristobal de las Casas

Just a 2-hour drive north of Comitán is the city of San Cristobal de las Casas. This medium-sized city is home to some well-preserved colonial architecture and offers a diverse array of activities. From city sightseeing to exploring beautiful nature, San Christobal has it all.

Fit visitors enjoy the 100-step climb to quaint Guadalupe Church, where they have views of the entire city. Also popular with adventure seekers is El Arcotete park, with beautiful hiking trails, caves, and a river to explore. Additionally, nature lovers enjoy visits to the botanical gardens, where they can learn all about the plants native to the area.

Tepoztlán

46 miles south of Mexico City is the mountain town of Tepoztlán. Located in a gorgeous alpine setting 5,380 feet above sea level, this diverse and welcoming town is worth a visit. Its beautiful natural environment is known as a place for healing and rejuvenation, making it a great place to reset and recharge.

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Tepoztlán

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Visitors love the food and artisan markets in Tepoztlán in the town’s colonial center. Also popular is a visit to Piramide del Tepozteco, a nearby Aztec archaeological site that overlooks the valley. But one of the main reasons many visit the town is for its renowned health, well-being, and alternative therapies, including massage, Reiki, and Temazcal, an Aztec steam bath therapy.

Campeche City

Located on the opposite side of the Yucatan Peninsula from Cancun, UNESCO-listed Campeche City is a great place to explore. Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, this city is full of rich history and nightlife and is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The city’s old town is a rainbow of colors, making it a photographer’s delight.

Many of the city’s historic homes have been converted into boutique hotels which are very popular with visitors looking for unique accommodations. Tourists also rave about the nightlife in Campeche with its lively bars and open-air salsa parties.

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February 15, 2023
10 U.S. Towns Perfect For A Lakeside Escape This Spring

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Spring break isn’t the only way to travel this season, and Americans are searching and booking more and more smaller and less assuming destinations. One trend in particular that is proving popular is the lake lifestyle. American travelers are looking to beaches and lakes this year, with lake towns seeing a nearly 500% increase in searches from last year.

Luckily in America, we are spoiled for choice with the many lakes we can choose from, from great to small and everything in between. While some lake destinations need no introduction, there are many other options that seem to fly under the radar.

Here are 10 lake towns in the U.S. perfect for you to live your best lake-life:

Kuttawa, Kentucky

You can find this small town gem located on the northern shores of Kentucky’s Lake Barkley. This Bluegrass state destination has been called the Cape Cod of Kentucky, and with good reason. The town itself has a bit of an interesting past, with the original Kuttawa being covered in water from the creation of a dam in the 1940s. Kuttawa was then moved to the edges of the newly created Lake Barkley. If you visit in the off-season, guests can still explore the ruins of the original town when they visit.

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Easily the most well-known lake town on this list, Lake Havasu is simply too enticing not to include as a perfect lakeside escape. With over 60 miles of waterways to explore and home to the new London Bridge, it’s no wonder over a million people visit this lake each year. What Lake Havasu City lacks in small-town appeal, it makes up for with its desert beauty and wealth of things to do. It’s worth mentioning that this area is popular with Spring-Breakers, and you might want to schedule your trip accordingly if you are looking for some peace and quiet!

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Summerville, West Virginia

With a nickname of “The Little Bahamas of the East,” it’s no wonder people love to visit Summerville. Almost hidden among the Appalachian Mountains, Summerville is a favorite for those looking to get on the water. Boating, paddle boarding, kayaking, scuba diving, and other activities are popular here. West Virginia’s largest lake, Summerville, also has waterfalls and gorges to explore if you get bored of sitting and staring at the stunning scenery.

Lake George, New York

While New York has no shortage of picturesque lakes to enjoy, the Finger Lakes region deserves its own separate list entirely. But for this New York lake, we are heading a bit further north and into the Adirondack Mountains. Lake George is the perfect example of what a lake town should be, with rolling mountains lining the shores, wineries, steamboats, and plenty of water and hiking activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Lakeway, Texas

You can find Lakeway tucked away into the south shore of Lake Travis, only 25 miles outside of Austin, Texas. Referred to as the Texas Hill Country, this area of the state is green, lush, and perfect for those looking for a lakeside escape. The small town setting is still very much Texas-style, and visitors can kick back and relax among the waves or hike any of the area’s many trails.

Winter Haven, Florida

This centrally located Florida town is found between Orlando and Tampa, offering travelers a much-needed respite from the amusement park-focused tourism of the area. Lakeland is a charming series of lakes, all linked by canals, and paddle boating along them is a favorite pastime here. While LEGOLAND is a big draw for this area, there are plenty of other ways to spend your time, from botanical gardens to nature trails. Winter Haven also has a recently restored downtown area, which is full of locally owned shops and restaurants to enjoy after a day on the water.

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

This classic New England town, set amongst the banks of the largest lake in New Hampshire, is a favorite among people coming from larger East Coast cities, seeking peace and quiet. Wolfeboro is often referred to as “America’s Oldest Summer Resort,” and the area remains popular even in the off-season. Lining the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, the charming small town is surrounded by beaches, hiking trails, and views of the mountain ranges across the water.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

Located in the Western North Carolina mountains, Lake Lure is both a mountain and a lake town. With opportunities for hiking, stunning viewpoints, swimming, and history, there is enough to do in Lake Lure to keep you busy. Located about 45 minutes from Asheville, Lake Lure can be found along the border between North and South Carolina. One area in which this town shines is the small local businesses that remain thriving today, with classic mom-and-pop shops lining the main street.

Greensboro, Georgia

Steeped in both tradition and history, Greensboro is Lake Oconee’s most well-known town for many reasons. Greensboro’s quaint and charming downtown offers shopping, restaurants, and bars, as well as lake activities such as water sports, boating, and fishing. The small-town charm of Greensboro keeps regulars coming back year after year, and it’s becoming increasingly popular with lake-goers looking for a small-town feel surrounded by natural beauty.

Clinton, Tennessee

The town of Clinton is perched on the shores of the Clinch River, next to the brightly colored greenish-blue Norris Lake. Favored by families looking to escape the daily grind in the nearby cities, Clinton and Norris Lake offer many outdoor adventures to enjoy. The charming downtown Clinton offers hometown restaurants and shops with a focus on handicrafts and antiques. Other options include the Museums of Appalachia, an immersive living history museum educating visitors on the region’s past.

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February 11, 2023
6 Must Visit Towns Along Turkiye’s Turquoise Coast

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Known as one of the most idyllic places to visit in the Mediterranean, Turkiye’s Turquoise coast has been becoming increasingly popular with tourists from all over the world. Visitor arrivals from the U.S. to Turkey were at an all-time high last year, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Also referred to as the Turkish Riviera, The south coast of Turkiye offers more than 150km of beaches, from white sand to cool pebbles with crystal clear waters. Coupled with the fact that Americans can stay up to 90 days, Turkiye is becoming more and more popular with U.S. travelers and digital nomads. From the namesake turquoise waters, and beautiful winding coastline hugging the cliffs, and no end of nice towns and cities to stop and spend time in, here are 6 Must Visit Towns Along Turkiye’s Turquoise Coast.

Fethiye

Known as having one of the best locations along Turkiye’s Mediterranean coastline, Fethiye is the perfect place to launch your trip along Turkiye’s Turquoise Coast. From its harbor to its ruins, there is a lot to enjoy, and for those flying into nearby Dalaman airport, it’s the most logical town to begin your trip.

Spend the morning exploring the Ruins of Kayaköy and your afternoon on a cruise among the islands. Those who are looking for a bit more action can head about 30km away to and hike among the soaring cliffs of the Saklikent Gorge.

Ölüdeniz

If Ölüdeniz is famous for two things, it’s the stunning blue lagoon and the hundreds of paragliders dotting the sky. While it might be known to some as not much more than just another British tourist hotspot (and for good reason), there is a lot to take in while visiting Ölüdeniz.

The nearby Babadag Mountain is a must-visit, and you take the cable car or drive up. Those who are brave enough can make the 2000 meter paragliding trip back down. Ölüdeniz also offers some of the best nightlife along the turquoise coast, and this doesn’t just apply to the land. There is no shortage of boat parties here, or a relaxing boat trip to the nearby Butterfly Valley is also a nice choice if you prefer something a bit less noisy.

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Kas

With a picturesque old town to wander, silversmith shops to stroll, and no end of cozy pebble beaches to lounge on, Kas is a dream destination. Indulge in the nightlife scene at one of the many vibrant bars and restaurants that keep going until the early hours, or savor the vast collection of Turkish breakfast options.

Kas is a great place to learn to dive, from downed warplanes and tanks to turtles and caves to explore. Adventure seekers can also try canyoneering, scaling the bluffs before jumping off and swimming to the next one. A day trip to the nearby Greek island of Meis is also an option, as are the popular boat trips to Kekova to explore the submerged ruins.

Cirali

Nestled along the coast an hour past Kas, you can find this quiet paradise. Cirali has not been overrun with tourism yet, and this ancient Lycian district of Anatolia is a great option for those looking to get away from the crowds.

Cirali has been considered the Thailand of Turkiye and wandering among the bamboo treehouse guesthouses, you can see why. This laid-back backpacking paradise offers visitors many things to see, including the ancient city of Olympus. These ruins are extensive, and it’s easy to spend a whole day wandering among them and imagining life in Lycian times. Next to the ruins, you can also find the eternal flame of Chimera and take a guided hike up in both day and evening.

Antalya

There are many reasons why Antalya is the perfect summer destination, as this city offers something for everyone. Out of all of these on this list, Antalya is easily the biggest and most populous city included. Antalya has everything from beaches to ancient old towns, with no end to shopping and dining options.

For those hiking the famed Lycian trail, this will be your stopping point. Head northeast of the city to hike the Duden waterfalls or walk through Hadrian’s Gate, Antalya has got something for everyone’s style.

Alanya

If Antalya is a history buff’s dream, then neighboring Alanya is for surfers. Catch a wave at this coastal town and explore the nearby Taurus mountains. Alanya is still a bit undiscovered by tourists, as many people end their Turquoise Coast journey in Antalya.

Those who venture to Alanya will find both culture and beach life. From Alanya Castle to the Red Tower, those looking for culture are covered. Explore the nearby Damlatas and Dim Caves, and then hit one of the city’s many markets.

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February 2, 2023
Top 8 Small Towns In The U.S. To Visit For 2023

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The United States is full of gorgeous places to visit. Some of the most iconic destinations are without a doubt big cities such as New York and Las Vegas, but the country is home to just as many amazing small towns to visit. Here are the top that small towns to add to your list of upcoming destinations in 2023.

1. Marfa, Texas

If you enjoy an artsy, quirky vibe, Martha, Texas is the place for you. The small town is located in southern Texas, a little over an hour away from the remote Big Bend National Park. The town is known for its eccentric art installations, such as a fake Prada shop, as well as one-of-a-kind draws like the Marfa lights, a mysterious phenomenon that some people claim is related to UFOs. Regardless of whether or not you believe in the supernatural, Marfa is still a fun and one-of-a-kind small town to visit.

2. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth is a small town located in Washington state. Tucked away in the Cascades, this town features a memorable German theme, offering everything from Barvarian cuisine to store friends that look fresh out of a fairy tale. The town is also notable for its offering of year-round activities. Wintertime visitors can look forward to horse-drawn sleigh rides, well river tubing and hiking are popular in the surrounding areas in the summer. And of course, you won’t want to miss checking out the countless local shops in the town of self.

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3. Seaside, Oregon

Here’s another charming town in the Pacific Northwest. Seaside Oregon, as the name may imply, sits on the Oregon coast. Situated near the beautiful Cannon Beach, Seaside is home to numerous local shops and stores that are perfect for spending a day browsing. Then, head over to the beach to enjoy the fresh ocean air or an evening bonfire.

4. Carmel By The Sea, California

Carmel By The Sea is a beautiful small town in Central California. This small town is perfect for those looking for a relaxing getaway. You can look forward to exploring the gorgeous coastline at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve or enjoying a delicious meal from one of the town’s restaurants such as Carmel Burger Bar.

5. Bar Harbor, Maine

This is a great option for those who love nature as much as they love exploring small towns. Bar Harbor is the closest town to the gorgeous Acadia National Park. The park is an amazing place to explore during the summer, and see stunning fall foliage displays in the autumn. The town itself is home to a number of unique local shops such as, perfect for finding a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

6. Bisbee, Arizona

Bisbee is a charming town located in Arizona. Once a copper mining town, nowadays Bisbee is known for its historic flair, local art galleries, and is a great place to spend some time exploring. Many of the popular things to do in Bisbee revolve around its rich past, such as mine tours or ghost and history tours.

7. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is another Arizonan small town that’s a great place to visit. Offering a distinctly different vibe from Bisbee, Sedona is better known for its high-quality day spas and gorgeous hiking trails than ghosts or old mines. You can also look forward to some unique attractions, such as the natural waterslides at Slide Rock State Park in the summer.

8. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole is another small town that’s great to visit year-round. Nestled near Teton Pass and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, Jackson Hole is surrounded by gorgeous scenery. In the winter, it’s a popular ski resort town. There’s plenty to do in the warmer months as well, though, including visiting hot springs and exploring the beautiful nearby national park.

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January 4, 2023
These Are The Top 10 Most Sought-After Magical Towns In Mexico By Locals
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There are 132 Magical Towns in total in Mexico, and defining the perfect road map to begin exploring can be a challenging task. Lucky for us, local travel magazine Despegar has ranked the ten most popular within the country, based on the preferences of Mexicans themselves. The list, which comprises ten pueblos, includes some old favorites… and a few surprises.

These ‘Pueblos Magicos‘ are among the trendiest destinations south of the border right now. Packed with centuries-old monuments and home to a rich heritage, they are recognized by Mexican authorities for being sites of outstanding cultural beauty and for their contribution to Mexico’s national identity.

We could certainly spend a lifetime traveling along the ‘magical route’ and unearthing all of its treasures, and the list below is an indication of where to start:

Mexico’s Top Magical Town Is A Small Town On The Pacific Coast

No one knows Mexico better than Mexicans themselves, and according to Despegar Mexico, whose editors have compiled a top ten of their favorite Pueblos, the number one town isn’t the colonial jewel of Taxco, nor Baja California Sur’s charming Todos Santos: instead, an unfamiliar, off the beaten path coastal village took the crown.

Check out the full list below:
1. Mazunte, Oaxaca
2. Pátzcuaro, Michoacán
3. Sayulita, Nayarit
4. Taxco, Guerrero
5. Valle de Bravo, Estado de México
6. Tequila, Jalisco
7. Bacalar, Quintana Roo
8. Tepoztlán, Morelos
9. Tequisquiapan, Querétaro
10. Xilitla, San Luis Potosí
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With the exception of Taxco, Tequila, and perhaps the up-and-coming Bacalar, these tourism centers would rarely feature on the average American’s Mexico bucket list. A prime example of that is Mazunte, the leading destination situated on the Southern Pacific Coast and known for its sandy, over-development-free beaches.

Here, guests who are also surfers can catch some of the most epic waves in Mexico, visit a turtle sanctuary, where conservation and rehabilitation work is carried out, and even whale-watch. Unlike others ranking lower on the list, Mazunte’s strongest assets are its pristine nature and laid-back atmosphere, qualities the rivaling Tulum no longer enjoys.

In fact, Tulum, perhaps America’s best-loved Magical Town, misses the list entirely. At number two, Pátzcuaro has attained prestige as an ancient hub, founded as early as the year 1320 by the Purépecha people. Naturally, from the arrival of the Spaniards, the aboriginal civilization and its structures were toppled in favor of colonial architecture and Christian symbols.

Today, this city in Michoacán is still home to a well-preserved historical district, with your usual cobblestone streets, Iberian-inspired churches, and red-tile roofs. Rounding out the top three, the Pacific village of Sayulita is famous for its surfing scene – much like Mazunte – marine wildlife, and the indigenous Huichol people.

Colonial Cities Make Up Most Of The Top Ten

As expected, the rest of the top ten is dominated by colonial settlements and landmarks, some dating as far back as the 1500s, such as the number ten-charting Xitlita. The aforementioned Taxco and Bacalar are the fourth and seventh most popular, respectively, while the equally renowned Tequila in Jalisco enters at number six.

Looking at this selection, one thing is clear to us: Mexicans are going where foreigners have not yet taken over and that have managed to retain their unique character. As Despegar reports, these 132 Magical Towns comprise 13% of the tourism offer in Mexico: they have up to 4,675 accommodation providers and 110,697 rooms available collectively.

The alpine town of Arteaga, established following the Spanish Conquest, illustrates this phenomenon: a fast-growing domestic destination, it has earned the nickname of ‘Mexican Switzerland’ due to its quaintness, the snowy peaks that surround it during the winter period, and its wooden cottages – yet many Americans don’t even know it exists.

In the words of Despegar‘s country manager Alejandro Calligaris, ‘it is interesting to see how Mexican travelers seek to explore national destinations that are not necessarily the traditional ones’. Mr. Calligaris believes this helps national tourism ‘diversify’ amid the ongoing threat of over-tourism and promotes Mexico’s ‘cultural richness’.

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November 6, 2022