As summer approaches, now is the time to begin planning your vacation. While some travelers may be thinking about a grand European vacation, there are also plenty of options stateside—from national parks and beaches to buzzy cities and small towns. If you’re interested in the latter, we can help narrow down your choices. Perhaps you are thinking of going to the West, and exploring a mountain town such as Telluride or Jackson. If you’re looking for a beach vacation, St. Simons Island and Kennebunkport are great options. Whatever your taste, there is a small town perfect for your summer vacation.
Read on for the best small towns to visit for a summer vacation—a list filled with picks from Travel + Leisure The A-list of travel advisors. (plus some of my favorites).
Jackson, Wyoming
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What I love about Jackson HoleIt’s unique juxtaposition is what makes it stand out. You can spend all day outdoors—fly fishing, searching for elk, moose, or bears, or taking a scenic float down the Snake River,” says Mary Cropper, T+L’s A-list travel advisor. Black Tomato. “When it’s dinner time, you can get dressed up and go out to the town [of Jackson] Pre-dinner drinks and fine dining are available. You can also visit the Jackson Hole RodeoIt’s as authentic as they come.”
Summer is a fantastic (if busy) time to explore the nearby area. Grand Teton National Park; Yellowstone National Park Jackson can be used as a base for a day-trip. If you want to stay in Jackson for a while, then book a room here. The Wort Hotel The following are some examples of how to use The Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa.
Crested Butte, Colorado
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“Crested Butte The town is unhurried and untouched in a manner that other mountain towns cannot match,” says an A-list travel expert. Kristin DiehlWho recommends staying in Scarp Ridge LodgeOne of Eleven Experience Lodges. It’s a restored miners’ saloon from the 19th century where they have thought of every detail. Their idea of a ‘concierge’ service means crafting your perfect day of guided hikes, mountain biking, fly fishing, or whitewater rafting, followed by wellness treatments and private-chef-prepared meals that feel well-earned following very active days.”
In addition, summer in Crested Butte is peak wildflower time. Visitors are greeted by columbine, lupine, and mule’s ear sunflowers—and the annual Crested Butte Wildflower Festival The event takes place on July.
Kennebunks in Maine
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Both Diehl and Cropper have the Kennebunks in Maine on their list—and it’s not hard to see why. Cropper says that a New England Summer is an experience that everyone should have at least once. Kennebunkport. This charming seaside village is located between Ogunquit, Maine and Portland, New England. Cropper says that with the beach only a short distance away and downtown areas perfect for drinks and dinner, it is a great place to relax and enjoy coastal vibes. Not to mention that the area has some of my favorite lobster rolls, which puts it on the map for a foodie’s destination.
If you’re looking for a more elevated experience, head to Kennebunk. “Check into White Barn Inn Enjoy a coastal retreat that is both charming and rich in history. Spend your days relaxing in spas, taking a cooking class with a Maine chef, or sailing along the coast in a golden hour sail,” says Diehl.
Easton Maryland
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Everyone knows that St. Michaels when thinking of the Eastern Shore of Maryland—and I still recommend staying at the Inn at Perry Cabin—neighboring Easton, Maryland“is an unassuming culinary hotbed that is often overlooked,” says Diehl. “Fueled with visionaries like Paul Prager’s Bluepoint Hospitality Group the town is home of haute spots like Bas RougeHarley Peet is a James Beard Award winning chef. The Stewart“, a sultry Scotch Bar that redefines small town sophistication.” Visit the restaurant before you tuck into a delicious meal. Pickering Creek Audubon Center Spend a few hours walking, biking, or canoeing around the marsh or the downtown area.
St. Francisville is located in Louisiana
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Diehl says that the Deep South is not on everyone’s summer travel bucket list. But St. Francisville in Louisiana is a gem, with its storybook charm, soulful Creole heritage, and canopies of Spanish Moss. Go horseback riding before the sun becomes too hot at the Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area Or tackle the 5.6-mile bike path and trail West Feliciana Sports Park. You can also take a short break from the heat of summer by stopping in at the town’s boutiques and antique shops. Deyo Supply The following are some examples of how to get started: Sage Hill. “A Stay at the St. Francisville Inn “The restaurant is the cherry-on-top of this getaway, filled with Southern hospitality. Diners make reservations from all over Southeast Louisiana,” she says.
Telluride, Colorado
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Cropper calls Telluride “the ideal playground for outdoor adventures,” with “summer temperatures that are comfortably cool.” You can bike, hike and swim as well as paddleboard and breathe in the fresh mountain air. If you plan ahead, try to time your trip around the Telluride Bluegrass Festival Or, Telluride Film Festival—two standout events that showcase the town’s vibrant cultural scene and bring its creative spirit to life,” she says.
St. Simons Island is located in Georgia.
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If you are looking for a classic summer beach vacation—the kind where you can spend every day swimming, reading, riding bikes, and taking everything at a slow pace—add St. Simons Island to your shortlist. One of the most beautiful islands in the world, St. Simons Island is a great place to spend your days swimming, reading and riding bikes. Georgia’s barrier islands St. Simons, a place I’ve loved for years, is family-friendly. Stay at either The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort The following are some examples of how to use The Inn by Sea IslandIt has an outdoor swimming pool and bicycles are provided for free to guests. You’re hungry after a beach day? Hot chicken is a must-have at any restaurant. Porch Brisket is also known as brisket Southern Soul Barbecue.
Ketchum, Idaho
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Diehl: “I love to travel and explore the great outdoors of Sun Valley. Ketchum is a perfect home base.” Stay at the Limelight The icon Sun Valley ResortSpend your days fly-fishing, rafting or biking before spending the night beneath a canopy full of stars.” If you plan to stay in the area longer than a few days, make sure you visit other towns. “I love taking a trip to Stanley in Idaho. “It’s a postcard-perfect scene; the picturesque Sawtooths and open sky are set against a tiny downtown.” She continues.
Spring Lake, New Jersey
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These small towns on the Jersey Shore evoke summertime nostalgia. Think wooden boardwalksIce cream shops, amusement park, and miles of beautiful shoreline. But there’s one place that really stands out. Spring Lake is picturesque in every way—from its grand beachfront homes to its walkable downtown with one-of-a-kind eateries and shops (I always recommend sandwiches from Tom Bailey’s Sweet treats from The Scone Pony). If you plan to stay in a place like The Ocean House Bed & Breakfast Or, Johnson House InnThey will be able assist you.
Salida, Colorado
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Salida is a hidden gem in Colorado, says Cropper. It’s a place that’s not overrun with tourists, and it’s a little piece of heaven. The town is located on the Arkansas River and embraces the outdoors as well as a creative spirit. “Salida has a plethora of art galleries, festivals and live music. Artists are everywhere. Salida is known for its relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. “It’s about fun times and good vibes,” says Cropper. As far as accommodations, Cropper recommends grabbing a tent The following are some examples of how to use renting a camper—alternatively, you can stay at Salida’s Amigo Motor Lodge or The Inn Nearby Buena Vista.
