A weekend, or even a day trip out of town to a quieter destination, can have a significant positive impact on stress levels and well-being. If you live in a major city and are craving an escape from the hustle and bustle, there’s sure to be a small town within easy reach that’s overflowing with charm. Whether you’re in the mood for a beach getaway, time in the mountains, or the chance to discover rich history, you’re sure to find the perfect small town, from the Pacific Northwest to the Deep South.
Seaside, Oregon
Seaside is less than a 90-minute drive from Portland and offers a beautiful three-mile stretch of sandy beach with a promenade running alongside most of it. The paved walkway is the perfect place for a stroll or bike ride, and there are multiple outfitters in town that offer rentals if you don’t have your own, including everything from traditional bicycles to surreys and beach cruisers. On the sand, enjoy everything from sandcastle building to fishing and kite-flying. The Seaside Aquarium always offers a good time with entertaining seals and Funland Arcade is a big hit with families, offering all sorts of carnival amusements.
Cripple Creek, Colorado
While many people head to Cripple Creek to gamble, there’s a whole lot more to this historic mountain town. Just a two-hour drive from Denver on the west side of Pikes Peak, it’s a great place to get a taste of Old West history. Between late May and early October, take a scenic ride on the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad which explores the outskirts of town, bringing passengers back to the peak of its gold mining days. You’ll get an even more in-depth look by joining a gold mine tour at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine (open from early May through early October). It will take you 1,000 feet underground via an old elevator followed by a ride in a ram air locomotive through an active mine that’s been in operation since the late 1800s.
The Cripple Creek District Museum features an array of intriguing artifacts from the Victorian-era in five historic buildings and in the evening, you can catch a melodrama at the historic Butte Theater. Booing, hissing, and even popcorn-throwing are all encouraged for an especially fun night out.
Port Townsend, Washington
Hop on the Seattle/Bainbridge Island ferry from the downtown Seattle terminal, and you can be in Port Townsend in less than two hours. This Victorian seaport town at the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula is surrounded by mountains and water. The downtown area is fun to explore with many magnificent 19th-century buildings housing a wide range of shops, art galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants. Learn more about the town's history at the Jefferson Museum, set within the 1892 city hall building and enjoy picnics at Pope Marine Park where free live concerts are hosted in the summer.
Fort Worden State Park is just two miles from downtown providing spectacular views across San Juan de Fuca Strait, a lighthouse, long stretches of sandy beach, kayak rentals, and miles of scenic hiking trails.
Fredericksburg, Texas
Less than 90 minutes from the Texas capital of Austin in Hill Country, Fredericksburg offers something for almost everyone. Settled by German immigrants in 1846, its heritage can be seen throughout, with nearly a dozen different restaurants serving German cuisine as well as breweries that produce German-style beer. Learn more about the town’s history at multiple museums, including the Pioneer Museum and the Vereins Kirche Museum. Discover the most impressive architecture while getting even more insight into Fredericksburg’s past by taking a historical walking tour.
If beer isn't your beverage, wine enthusiasts will find nearly 20 wineries for touring and tasting along the Fredericksburg Wine Road 290 which travels through the lush, rolling hills, and in the spring, the landscape will be blanketed with colorful wildflowers.
Salem, Massachusetts
A quick and easy escape from Boston, Salem is just a 30-minute drive north and offers a rich and interesting history with all sorts of things to do. Head to the waterfront to join a harbor cruise or a memorable trip on the Schooner Fame, a replica of an 1812 vessel, where you can even help raise the sails. Getting out on the water is a great way to get a different perspective on the sights.
Most people visit Salem to delve into its witch heritage. The town is particularly infamous for the 1692 witch trials, when accused “witches” were burned at the stake. The Salem Witch Museum details the story of the dramatic trials with exhibits and reenactments on stage. Head to the Old Burying Point Cemetery where you’ll see the graves of notable people like the witchcraft judge, John Hathorne, and a memorial to the victims of this dark time.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is a historic seaside resort town that offers one of the best beach getaways within a reasonable distance of New York City, about a 2.5-hour drive south. Stroll past Victorian-era beauty that will likely change your entire outlook on the Jersey Shore. During the warmer months of the year, take a whale-watching boat tour to see humpback whales and dolphins. Hiking along the beaches, birdwatching, and touring historic homes are all possible too.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva is a great destination in every season but summer and fall are particularly enticing for a visit. When it comes to activities, enjoy everything from hiking and biking trails to water parks and golf courses. A 20-mile path circles the lake, ideal for serene strolls or jogs while the water itself is great for summer swims, sailing, and sunset cruises. You can even fly above the town in a hot-air balloon. Once autumn rolls around, the colorful foliage makes it even more picturesque and there are all sorts of fun fall activities like apple picking, pumpkin picking, and corn mazes.
