11 Of The Most Captivating Small Towns In The Northern United States
The Northern states are graced with all four seasons, bringing colorful mosaics to river valleys, carpets of snow to mountain slopes, and rays of sunshine to the shores of the Great Lakes and both oceans. Capitalizing on these dreamy naturescapes are scores of captivating towns — be they living maritime museums, hardcore adventure hubs, or community-driven enclaves. Let's bounce around from coast to coast, and from the Rockies to the Poconos to discover the eleven most awe-inspiring, attention-retaining small towns that the Northern United States has to offer.
Charlevoix, Michigan
Michigan is inundated with captivating small towns — from the beaches of the Lower Peninsula to the mines and forests of the Upper Peninsula. I've written extensively about Copper Harbor and Mackinac Island, and the villages surrounding Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, but today, I'm feeling in a Charlevoix mood. Pinched between the northern wing of Lake Huron and Round Lake (a bulbous extension of Lake Charlevoix), this is a small, yet multifaceted city. The main drag (i.e. Bridge Street) is lined with lively establishments (I found Harwood Gold Store & Cafe an agreeable spot to get grounded) and hosts the Thursday Farmers Market during the fair-weather season. To the east, you can watch boats launch from and dock at the Charlevoix Marina. Trending westward, you'll pass by the enigmatic "Mushroom Houses" of the Earl Young Local Historic District before arriving at Michigan Beach Park, with its soft sands and quintessential red lighthouse.
Bayfield, Wisconsin
Another must-see town in the Great Lakes Region is that of Bayfield, Wisconsin — an underrated gem for nature lovers on the southwest shore of Lake Superior. Despite being the smallest city in the state, Bayfield is the gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (an asset that significantly boosts its summertime traffic). Guided kayak tours, leisure cruises, and island ferries launch from Bayfield's waterfront — showcasing the cave-ladened sandstone cliffs and historic lighthouses of the shoreline/archipelago. Back on dryland, visitors can peruse the shops of Rittenhouse Avenue, get absorbed in the lore of the Bayfield Maritime Museum, or rub elbows with the locals at one of the Concerts by the Lake (at Memorial Park every Tuesday and Thursday evening during the summer). Spring/summer also brings blooming flowers and abundant orchards (part of the surrounding Fruit Loop), and at any time of year, there are hundreds of miles of peripheral hiking/snowshoeing/skiing/fat-biking trails to explore.
Big Sky, Montana
Montana, like Michigan, is a northern state that's hard to narrow down to a single selection. Only instead of multitudinous lake towns (of which Montana actually has its fair share), The Treasure State is all about the mountains. Framed by the Madison and Gallatin ranges, and split into three distinct villages (depending on your pleasure), Big Sky is captivating from top to bottom. The Mountain Village is home to Big Sky Resort — drawing skiers/snowboarders to the slopes of Lone Mountain during the winter and mountain bikers/gondola sightseers come summer. Meadow Village harbors the idyllic Ousel Falls Trail and a healthy collection of shops/restaurants/watering holes (including the Beehive Basin Brewery). It also hosts the Music in the Mountains summer concert series (which is free, by the way). Finally, Canyon Village (i.e. the entrance to Big Sky), is where whitewater rafters and anglers can reap the rewards of the Gallatin River. Basically, if you can't find your niche in one of these three sub-communities, then I regret to inform you that it's possible you don't like fun.
Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint seamlessly marries the ongoing mountain and lake themes, making it one of the standout communities of the Idaho Panhandle. Perched on the north end of Lake Pend Oreille (i.e. the largest body of water in The Gem State), in the midst of three verdant mountain ranges, Sandpoint once again caters to all types. Sandpoint City Beach Park unites swimmers, sunbathers, joggers, and picnickers, while the creekside marina brings boaters into the mix. Just north of town, the Schweitzer Mountain Resort continually flexes its four-season muscle, so pack your skis, bike, and/or hiking shoes (or you can rent the first two on-site). If you're peeling yourself off the beach or hobbling off the mountain, you'll find smiling faces, cold pints, and full bellies along First Avenue. If you're craving something sweet, or a neat souvenir, be sure to check out the Cedar Street Bridge Public Market, which branches off the north end of First. And if you wade just west of downtown, you'll find the ultimate experiential trifecta within the same lot: Evans Brothers Coffee, Matchwood Brewing Company (which hosts live music on its outdoor stage), and the Sandpoint Rock Gym (housed within an old grain elevator — usually with a food truck out front).
Florence, Oregon
Jumping over to the Pacific Coast, Florence, Oregon offers a compelling glance into an old-fashioned fishing village and one of the largest swaths of temperate coastal sand dunes on the planet. The Siuslaw River cradles the Historic Old Town on its way out to the ocean and corresponding wild beaches — providing sanctuary for the Port of Siuslaw (which doubles as a cozy campground for all you North American van-lifers) and impetus for the eye-catching Siuslaw River Bridge (circa 1936). In the small space between, you'll find a scenic boardwalk, scrappy seafood shacks (such as Novelli's Crab and Seafood and Mo's Seafood & Chowder), charming riverside parks, and a slew of galleries and bookstores. Venture south on the Oregon Coast Highway for a few minutes and you'll reach the northern part of Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area — an otherworldly hiking spot and off-highway vehicle (OHV) hub.
Hood River, Oregon
I love you Washington, but given the theme, I'm going to give priority to one more Oregon outlet (but at least it's right on your border). Hood River is an excellent introduction to the endlessly captivating Columbia River. Here, from the shores of Hood River Waterfront Park, dozens of colorful windsurfers and kitesurfers can be seen capitalizing on the persistent gusts that funnel through the state-splitting gorge (earning Hood River the title of "Windsurfing Capital of the World"). Heading up from the water, visitors will be introduced to Hood River's robust coffee and craft beer culture, and depending on when you visit, one of its many hops and harvest-themed festivals. But even an ordinary day on Oak Street is a stimulating one. Hood River's downtown is based in historic brick buildings, accented with murals, and boosted by a wide array of restaurants that appear immune to negative reviews. If you feel like stretching your legs, try cycling the Hood River Country Fruit Loop (our second Fruit Loop of this Northern U.S. tour), featuring more than 30 fruit stands, wineries, lavender fields and more — all in the conical shadow of Mount Hood.
St. Charles, Illinois
St. Charles, Illinois is a vibrant suburb of Chicago that is suitable for all ages. Bisected by the Fox River, this laid-back city maintains immaculate pathways, rivers, and pedestrian bridges all across its purview. Join countless other families in Pottawatomie Park for a weekend picnic, a paddlewheel cruise, or a round of mini or normal-sized golf (or pop on over to Wheeler Park for some disc golf). For a late-morning pick-me-up, St. Charles has several communal coffee shops to choose from (Arcedium Coffeehouse, Maple Leaf Roasters, and Town House Cafe being my favorites). Then, if you're in the mood for a classy evening, make a dinner reservation at The Graceful Ordinary and then catch a show at either the Arcada Theatre or the Moonlight Theatre (all within a block of each other). Or, if you'd prefer something more relaxed, check out Alter Brewing (they do open mics on Tuesdays), or any of the dozen or so breweries and brew pubs in the vicinity. If somehow there's an itch that St. Charles can't quite scratch, the Windy City's riverfront, waterfront, and tireless nightlife is well within reach.
Jackson, Wyoming
Plunked within the stunning, wildlife-rich Jackson Hole Valley, just a short drive from two of America's best national parks, three premier ski resorts, and millions of acres of additional public lands, Jackson, Wyoming is dressed to impress. Mere minutes removed from the pointy peaks and trifecta of alpine lakes of Grand Teton National Park, and not much more than an hour south of the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park, Jackson is a prime basecamp for America the Beautiful pass holders. At the same time, you can view the region's famous herds (winter through late spring) at the local National Elk Refuge. If, on the other hand, a little Wild West culture is what you crave, I invite you to enjoy the live music and dancing at places like Silver Dollar Bar and Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Or perhaps the allure of big runs on soft powder is what brought you to Jackson, in which case Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain, and Grand Targhee Resorts should be your targets.
Sleepy Hollow, New York
Just beyond the concrete jungle of New York City, the quaint village of Sleepy Hollow is where scenery, history, and fantasy collide. This eclectic portion of Mount Pleasant inspired the writing of, and setting for, the headless horseman tales of Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. So naturally, October is the most captivating time to visit — not only because of the blazing pumpkins, haunted hayrides, spooky estates, cemetery walking tours, and yes, a real live (sort of) headless horseman, but also because of the beautiful fall colors that descend on Hudson Valley. That said, summer is no slouch. Hopping off the train from Manhattan, visitors can launch right into hikes through the woodlands of Rockefeller State Park Preserve, lengthy paddle sessions on the Hudson River, or sync with the solid events schedule (such as the Sleepy Hollow Music Festival, or Tarrytown Street Fair).
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Known as "The Gateway to the Poconos" (for obvious reasons), "The Switzerland of America" (owing to its European-esque, mountain-backdropped architecture), and one of the most LGBT-friendly destinations, it's safe to say that Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania has broad appeal. Named after local hero and athlete-extraordinaire, this Carbon County gem encourages everyone to get active. With Lehigh Gorge State Park (featuring Glen Onoko Falls) on its north side, the beach and namesake lake of Beltzville State Park immediately to the east, and numerous other nearby hiking areas and swimming holes, this is an easy goal to achieve. If you're craving the outdoor experience without excessive effort, why not ride the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway? — a 70-minute, round-trip tour aboard a 1917 diesel engine. As of the writing of this article, the Jim Thorpe Fall Foliage Festival is just around the corner, but given the Old Town charm and Poconos magic, there's never a bad time to roll on through.
Mystic, Connecticut
Let's end on the East Coast. Mystic, Connecticut, with its timeless waterfront, and ample maritime attractions, is a quintessential New England destination. Adjacent to Long Island Sound, this river port is sheltered from the brunt of the Atlantic but laps up its bountiful history, culinary scene, and recreation opportunities. Join Argia Mystic Cruises for a refreshing day-sail (or enchanted sunset excursion), then head over to the Mystic Seaport Museum, where you'll find a recreated 19th-century waterfront (using authentic structures that were transported from all over New England), and if there's still time (before or after), pop into the Mystic Aquarium, where you'll be met with more than 300 species (marine and otherwise), or head next door to shop around at the Olde Mistick Village. Back on the downtown riverfront, there are ample seafood-centric eateries (think lobster rolls, oysters, fish & chips, chowder, and fresh-caught filets) — many of which have open-air dining when it's warm, and cozy interiors for the off-season.
Regardless of the season, these eleven towns of the Northern United States provide ample reasons to visit. If you're a get-out-and-get-after-it kind of person, then simply pick your playground. Or if you yearn to sink into site-specific shops, lively festivals, themed museums, and home-brewed taprooms, then there are plenty of social districts on this list to keep you company.
