Another small lakeside vacation town, Meredith attracts visitors all year long with its beautiful scenery and attractions. The town’s air is full of negative ions, and makes for a very relaxing experience, thanks to its location on Lake Winnipesaukee. The lake constantly makes lists as being the best in the state and is the perfect area for enjoying the outdoors.
Church Landing at Mill Falls offers scenic lodging with private balconies facing the lake. And, if you’re looking for some homecooked comfort food, stop by Hart’s Turkey Farm for a warm turkey dinner, complete with stuffing and mashed potatoes, just like Thanksgiving.
Virginia: Williamsburg
Travel back in time to the beginning of life in the American colonies by visiting the place where it all started: Virginia. This is a must-see place for history buffs and a place that the whole family can enjoy. Williamsburg has some spectacular coastlines and is home to some of the best beaches on the East Coast. Jamestown Beach Park is most popular with families with kids, while College Creek is better for adults just looking to stroll and take in the scenery – and those are just two of the many great choices in the area.
Of course, the main attraction in the area is Colonial Williamsburg, where you can witness reenactments and a glimpse into the way things were in America in the 1700s. But for those who are looking for something more modern, it’s also home to Busch Gardens amusement park.
Indiana: Nashville
Nashville, Indiana is located in the heart of Brown County, about 40 miles outside of Indianapolis. Those living in the area know it’s a beautiful spot to visit, especially during the fall when all of the leaves are changing colors. That’s because the Brown County State Park offers some terrific hiking and scenery.
On Van Buren Street sits the Out of the Ordinary restaurant, which offers cozy dining and delicious comfort food, like their famous wild game feast sandwich. There are also plenty of delicious fudge shops, along with other small boutiques. Make sure to stop by the Bear Wallow Distillery after your meal for some moonshine tasting.
New York: Cooperstown
If you’re a baseball fan, you definitely need to visit Cooperstown, New York. Located in Otsego, the town is home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Outdoorsy types will love the area, too, especially during wintertime, when ice fishing and fat biking prevail. Stay along the water’s edge in one of the many hotels or cabins. Or, if you’re more adventurous and want the full experience, skip the hotel and opt for camping instead.
If you have zero interest in sports, there is still plenty to keep you busy in Cooperstown. The Fenimore Art Museum is worth a visit, as is the Farmer’s Museum. Staying at The Inn at Cooperstown gives you the full small-town experience if you’re planning to spend the night. No matter which part of the state you’re in, no trip to New York would be complete without at least one giant slice of extra greasy, foldable pizza. Bocca Osteria has plenty of it, along with other Italian favorites like spaghetti and calzones.
California: Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel, California, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast, and in the world in general. For those looking for an oceanfront wining and dining experience, Carmel has it all. Stroll barefoot down the white sands of Carmel Beach, and visit the many art galleries to see what the area’s artists have to offer. Point Lobos is a must-see and offers views of some of the area’s wildlife, including sea otters that often pop up to play in front of visitors. The architecture, including the fairytale (Hansel and Gretel) cottages, is something else unique to the town.
If you’re looking for nightlife, there are much better areas in California, although you’ll definitely be able to find a great martini and some live music. If you’re looking for the best boutique shopping and scenic walking, however, this may be the perfect small town for you!