This charming resort town is known for its natural beauty and great ski trails. During the warmer seasons, visitors can hike, bike, and climb their way through areas like Moss Glen Falls or Sunset Rock Trail. If you hike the trails at Smuggler’s Notch State Park, you’ll be able to see the Bingham Falls swimming hole. It gets pretty crowded during the summer weekends, so make sure to plan ahead!
There are plenty of great places to stay in and near Stowe, but if you’re in town for the skiing, you’ll definitely want to check into the Topnotch Resort and Spa for incredible mountain views and cozy accommodations. No matter what time of year you go, you’re in for a real treat!
Minnesota: Stillwater
If you’re looking for the perfect place to get away, Stillwater, Minnesota, can take your mind off of the external world and introduce you to the magic of a small town in New England. Take a gondola ride or cruise through the river during the summer, and stop into all of the quaint, authentic shops to do things like olive oil tastings. During the winter, Stillwater offers excellent skiing and cozy vacation cottages and hotels.
The food is something that’s consistently amazing all year long, too. Stop at the Dock Café, which sits right on the edge of the St. Croix River, for some fresh, local seafood and a glass of wine.
Connecticut: Mystic
This little town is aptly named since it definitely brings the magic. Mystic boasts a rich history. It was settled in the 1650s as a safe harbor for ships during storms. Now, it’s full of quaint little shops, restaurants, art galleries, hotels, and more.
The Mermaid Inn is an adorable bed and breakfast that offers views of the river and is a short walk away from all of the shops and eateries downtown has to offer. Be sure to take one of the Mystic Revealed Guided Tours to learn all about the magic behind the town!
Maine: Kennebunkport
Maine has quite a few small towns worth visiting, many of which offer gorgeous views of the Atlantic, and some of the best lobster you’ve ever eaten in your life. One town, however, stands out among the others. Kennebunkport, which likes to refer to itself as “the place to be all year,” is a resort town full of beautiful beaches and fun things to do.
The town is also home to the Bush family summer home, Walker’s Point Estate, where the former president and his family spend a lot of time on vacations. The gates to the estate are guarded by the Secret Service, though you can catch a glimpse if you happen to rent a boat and cruise by.
Iowa: Winterset
Winterset, which is located in Madison County, Iowa, is known for its covered bridges. It’s been used as a shooting location for several films, including The Bridges of Madison County, in 1995, and The Crazies in 2010. The town even hosts a Covered Bridge Festival each year during the second week of October.
Aside from visiting the bridges, try heading to the house where John Wayne was born, which has been converted into a museum. And, of course, if you’re looking for a place to stay, the Covered Bridge Inn may have a room for you!