9 Most Peaceful Small Towns In The Northern United States
The quiet serenity of the Northern United States draws millions of people to call it home. In Port Townsend, sea breezes waft over Fort Worden State Park, where views of Puget Sound leave people in awe. The Delaware Canal creates a tranquil backdrop in New Hope. Saugatuck's relaxing atmosphere matches the placid vibe of the Kalamazoo River. And throughout this part of the US, mountains and ocean conspire together to create a setting no one wants to leave.
Skaneateles, New York
Even the festivals in Skaneateles have a peacefulness about them. The Skaneateles Festival features Broadway performances and jazz shows. Those who love the outdoors can catch the laid-back Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show, held in Clift Park. The show includes the chance to see historic and restored wooden boats. One of the best things to do in Skaneateles, apart from joining the festivals, is to relax in Clift Park with a coffee from the Skaneateles Bakery in one hand and a book in the other. A short drive away, Sennett Park's paved walk is great for an afternoon stroll. Plus, the Charlie Major Nature Trail along the Skaneateles Creek is a lovely place for a picnic.
Port Townsend, Washington
The sea is front and center in Port Townsend, just as it has been for more than a hundred years. At one point, more than a thousand ships anchored in Port Townsend Bay. Today, it is the place where people come to see regattas and go on Salish Sea wildlife cruises. A serene day in Port Townsend typically starts with just such a cruise before heading out on the Low Tide Walk at Fort Worden. The Fort Worden State Park is home to the Point Wilson Lighthouse, from where the Puget Sound views are simply sublime. Downtown Port Townsend has its own attractions, with Water Street opening up to more water views and the historic Fire Bell Tower, where the bell used to alert locals to fires. And, since views are synonymous with a peaceful atmosphere, the Olympic Discovery Trail provides full views of mountains and ocean as it runs through deep green forests.
Big Timber, Montana
The Crazy Mountains are an unforgettable backdrop to the quiet little town of Big Timber. The Crazy Mountain Museum is a fun way to spend a lazy couple of hours after taking in some of those views. The museum houses a permanent rodeo exhibit and a replica of a Norwegian stabbur (storehouse). Visitors will also find an incredibly detailed diorama of what Big Timber used to look like in 1907. There are plenty of snacks to choose from, including handmade chocolates at Little Timber Quilts & Candy, before heading out on the Horseback Trail Ride. The ride is one of the best ways to explore the mountains. Those who want to combine a trip to a waterfall with a horseback ride can take the 27-mile drive to Natural Bridge Falls in Custer Gallatin National Forest. The waterfall is 100 feet tall, and the Canyon Bottom Access Trail makes it easy to see it up close.
Montpelier, Vermont
Northern United States historic architecture shines in Montpelier. The State House, for one, is a must-visit. The structure is famous for its gold-leafed dome and is surrounded by stone stairways and lawns. The Bragg Farm Sugar House is also historic, but more classic than imposing. The Sugar House has produced Vermont Maple Syrup for eight generations and also offers maple ice cream. Those who want a little kick with or after their ice cream can head to the Three Penny Taproom for a pint. As for the tranquil outdoors, Hubbard Park boasts about 194 acres of trees and multiple hiking and skiing trails.
Castine, Maine
In Castine, Maine, the elm trees are special for two reasons. They provide shade and coolness, and some of them were saplings when Booker T. Washington was born. These trees thrive in this town, even though they are rarely found anywhere else. They are found throughout the town, as people head down Main Street towards the ocean, casting their shadow on buildings like the Pentagoet Inn. On hot days, the sea and the harbor offer respite, but those who want to hide from the sun will find a fascinating alternative at the Wilson Museum. There are local and prehistoric collections to see here, and more views of the water. And, near the western shore of Penobscot Bay, there are forest trails to get lost in, in Witherle Woods.
New Hope, Pennsylvania
People walk where they want to be in New Hope, especially downtown. There are several art galleries to peruse over a peaceful afternoon, including the Red Tulip Gallery. There are demonstrations to enjoy here on weekends, and several works of wood and fiber. At New Hope Arts, people can view indoor and outdoor exhibitions. Those already taking walks around the galleries often extend their outing to the Parry Mansion to see the rooms dating to 1784 and the New Hope Railroad for a 45-minute train ride. The Delaware Canal runs through town, and it features a towpath for walking and biking. There is also the nearby Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve to explore, which holds a museum and offers trails through meadows and woodlands.
North Conway, New Hampshire
North Conway also offers train rides, thanks to the Conway Scenic Railway. The train chuffs its way through the Mount Washington Valley, with some routes extending into the White Mountains. Getting back into town afterwards calls for a stop at Zeb's General Store to stock up on candy and homemade jam. Many people also take an ice cream break at Schouler Park next to the railroad station. There are benches in the shade, which are great for sunny-day impromptu picnics. Near North Conway lies Echo Lake State Park, where Echo Lake is overlooked by Cathedral Ledge. It is possible to drive up to the top of Cathedral Ledge to see the lake and the mountains from a different vantage point. The lake is also a major draw in the summer for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Michigan's Saugatuck offers the best of both worlds when it comes to dunes and water. The town literally sits between the Lake Michigan dunes and the Kalamazoo River, and was recognized for its gorgeous beaches back in 2020. People rave about the open-air dune schooner tours courtesy of Saugatuck Dune Rides. Those who prefer calmer activities head to Oval Beach to admire the dunes from a bit of a distance and relax on the soft sand. Laketown Beach is ideal for sunset selfies. There are cruises to enjoy on the river, and these typically come with a couple of ghost stories. Those who enjoy festivals make some time during July to take in the festive atmosphere of the Lighted Boat Parade that forms part of the Venetian Festival.
Stonington, Connecticut
The serenity of Stonington is hard to beat, especially at the tip of Stonington Borough, where the Stonington Lighthouse Museum stands. The views from the top of the lighthouse are unmatched, across Fishers Island and Long Island Sound. The Stonington Borough Historic District is also a big attraction with the century-old buildings and the Stonington Harbor. Those who want to spend some time along the water usually head to DuBois Beach, where there are no crowds to speak of and beautifully clear water. At Stonington Point, the views of the sunset draw people at the end of the day, and there are benches where they can take it all in.
Finding Peace and Quiet In The Northern United States
These towns have earned their bragging rights when it comes to offering real peace and quiet. People can wander beneath ancient elm trees or take in wide open views of mountains and ocean, all without noise and interruption. It is no wonder that people who live in this part of the U.S. are loath to leave, even for just a little while.
