Discover Some Of The Best Small Towns For Summer Travel

Jun 05, 2023

Small towns are a great option for summer travel.

When it comes to travel, bigger isn’t always better. Although large, metropolitan areas have their own allure for visitors seeking the sights and sounds of a major city, small towns offer a certain charm that’s hard to beat. There’s something special about strolling the main street of a quaint town while window shopping then stopping for lunch at a deli that’s frequented by locals. The friendly, down-home environment makes for a wonderful vacation.

The following towns, although small in size, are big in personality.

Hilton Head Island is bursting with outdoor activities.

Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Known for its commitment to nature and the environment, Hilton Head Island allows no buildings over five stories high and no streetlights. Free of flashy neon signs and excessive development, Hilton Head Island is famous for its incredible white sand beaches, natural beauty and sprawling world class golf courses. Quaint streets – all biker friendly – are lined with charming beachy shops, breweries and Lowcountry eats, while an array of historical sites provide a glimpse into the Island’s storied past. Set front and center on Coligny Beach and just steps away from the irresistible shops at Coligny Plaza, Beach House Hilton Head Island provides the ultimate coastal getaway. This property is Hilton Head hallmark as it houses the island’s most famous beach bar, Tiki Hut, where music along with tropical cocktails are served nonstop. Guests can also take advantage of its bikes and Moke carts to explore all the natural beauty and adventure that await.

Del Mar is home to a world-class horse racing track.

Del Mar, CA

Positioned along a stunning, pristine stretch of shoreline on the Southern California coast, Del Mar is a community with a charming, small-town feel that truly embodies the notion of classic Americana. For decades, Del Mar has been a playground for the rich, with winding neighborhoods of luxurious beach estates, a world-class horse racing track, booming scene of oceanfront restaurants and charming storefronts. A coastal Southern California gem, L’Auberge Del Mar overlooks the Pacific Ocean offering a resort experience reminiscent of a private seaside estate. This intimate hotel presents guest rooms and suites that ooze coastal luxury, along with al fresco dining options, a full service beach house-style spa, a private beach path, tennis courts, a 24-hour fitness center and a peaceful pool area with leisure and whirlpools.

Whiteface Lodge evokes the splendor of the Adirondacks.

Lake Placid, NY

Famous for hosting two Olympics, including the famous US hockey victory over Russia in 1980, Lake Placid offers visitors an abundance of outdoor activities along with bright green rolling hills, pristine lakes and ponds and a gorgeous town. Home to a host of creative local artisans specializing in everything from bath and body products made with Adirondack water to a hat specialties, Lake Placid is a shopper’s paradise. Take part in the area's most popular activity and explore miles of marked hiking trails. Kayak, canoe or paddleboard on Mirror Lake. Tucked into the woodlands above Lake Placid sits Whiteface Lodge. The region’s only all-suite resort, Whiteface Lodge evokes the Gilded Age splendor of the historic Adirondack Great Camps. Suites range from 700 to 2,300 square feet and from one to three bedrooms. Each are outfitted with full kitchens, washers and dryers along with balconies or patios, ideal for groups to reconnect and disconnect when desired.

Cape Cod is a paradise for sailors.

Cape Cod, MA

For the quintessential beach town experience, Cape Cod boasts over 560 miles of beautiful shoreline, historic lighthouses, award-winning seafood and a rich history, including many American firsts. With top-tier seafood shacks, colorful real estate, premium beaches and quaint shopping towns, Cape Cod is a bucket list on many Eastern travel logs and celebrates the peak season with summer-long events, festivities and more. Centrally located in the Mid Cape area on its own expansive stretch of private beach, Red Jacket Beach Resort is celebrated for its exceptional service, relaxing spa, variety of on-site activities and convenient location providing easy access to scenic bike paths, hiking trails, shopping, art and cultural sites. Guests are able to enjoy a wide variety of offerings including the resort spa, Sea Service beachside dining, Kids Club activities and more.

The hotel resembles an English manor house.

Lake Forest, IL

Considered one of the nation’s most affluent neighborhoods, Lake Forest is a hidden gem nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan and 40 minutes outside of Chicago. With a population just shy of 20,000 residents, city dwellers looking for a quiet weekend escape can hop on Chicago’s Metra line, which takes them directly into the charming city. An idyllic summer escape, popular seasonal destination highlights include an afternoon at the Chicago Botanic Garden, a gin tasting at Koval Distillery and exploring the locally-owned shops in Historic Market Square. Book a long weekend at the Deer Path Inn, a 57-room boutique hotel reminiscent of an English manor house. Established in 1929, the historic and luxurious North Shore landmark is known for its spacious, graciously appointed accommodations, distinguished Afternoon Tea service along with exceptional food and beverage offerings across three restaurants.

Lockwood Hotel serves as a base camp for discovery.

Waterville, ME

Take a turn from the coast of Maine to visit the inland city of Waterville this summer, where a $200 million revitalization initiative is transforming the city’s Main Street into an even more vibrant arts and culture destination. Summer is the perfect time to plan a visit to Waterville, as the city hosts the annual Maine International Film Festival every July. This year’s festival takes place from July 7-16 and events will be spread out across two different Waterville venues: Maine Film Center and Waterville Opera House. Waterville has seen major development in recent years, with a key part of the revitalization being the recent opening of Lockwood Hotel, its first downtown, boutique hotel offering in decades. With a sleek and modern, yet decidedly Maine aesthetic, Lockwood Hotel serves as a basecamp for discovery, allowing guests to seamlessly access the endless arts, culture and outdoor attractions in Waterville and beyond.