Big cities often boast museums, nightlife, shopping and the most talked about restaurants to lure tourists in. However there is something to be said about the charm that a smaller city has.
If you are looking for a destination that isn’t rushed, but still has something for everyone, then a visit to one of these smaller cities may be just what you need.
1. Asheville, NC
“10 Most Beautiful Places in America”, “The 50 Most Alive Places To Be”, “America’s Top 25 Arts Destinations”, “Happiest City for Women”, “Best Places to Reinvent Your Life”, and “New Freak Capital of the U.S.”, are only some of the titles held by Asheville, and with its notable architecture, award-winning restaurants, art and music culture, mild-weather, and beautiful scenery and national parks, it is no wonder why Asheville is a must-see city. With year round festivals, farmers markets, unique shopping experiences, and endless outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in his eclectic city. Also home to the Biltmore Estate, Asheville draws in thousands of visitors each year, many of whom end up coming back to live in this thriving town. A popular time to visit is in the fall when the leaves start to change colors, the air becomes crisp, and the nights become clear.
2. Savannah, GA
Not only is Savannah the largest National Historic Landmark District in the country, it is also one of the Top 10 City Destinations in the U.S. as it receives over 50 million visitors in the last 10 years alone. Many of the Historic District area hotels, B & B’s, restaurants, and stores have been restored to their previous conditions, maintaining their previous grandeur. Small and quaint enough to explore on your own, the local restaurants and Southern Cuisine are not to miss. The food encompasses the many heritages that make Savannah unique, and have inspired and shaped the town’s identity.
3. Saratoga Springs, NY
A secluded valley in Upstate New York, Saratoga Springs was only home to a handful of early settlers, but has expanded to over 28,000 people and has become one of today’s resort hot-spots. The city thrives during the summer months when the historic Saratoga Race Course is open which draws thousands of spectators to watch the horse races. Throughout the city, you will find large, ornate horse statues which are painted by local artists and changed to reflect certain holidays or areas that they are placed in. Saratoga Springs State Park offers healing, natural mineral springs and baths that can be enjoyed by the public, and spring water can also be bottled and collected for free to the public. The area offers many historical landmarks, fine hotels and resorts, and plenty of restaurants which help make Saratoga Springs one of the most popular tourist destinations in the nation.
4. Vail, CO
A town only established less than 50 years ago, Vail has become one of the most popular skiing destinations in America. Located in the Rockies, Vail is filled with luxurious condos, resorts, lodges, and fine restaurants. Besides skiing, the town is also home to many events including a food & wine festivals, summer music & dance festivals and the World Alpine Ski Championships. Vail is also the home to the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheatre, the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the Vail Nature Centre, and the Holy Cross Wilderness Area. Although the city was built for and known for skiing, in the summer months, skiing is replaced by top-notch hiking, cycling, and golf.
5. Sante Fe, NM
Located 7,000 ft. in the foothills of the southern Rocky Mountains, Sante Fe is the second oldest city as well as the highest and oldest capital in the U.S. Each year, Sante Fe brings in more than 1 million tourists and offers its unique and ancient traditions, art, and culture. In 2005, Sante Fe became the first U.S. city to be granted the title of Creative City by UNESCO, a rare feat as it is only one of nine cities to hold this honorable title. The city ranks as the country’s 3rd largest art market with nearly 300 galleries and dealers as well as more than a dozen large museums and the world-class Sante Fe Opera. Offering more than 200 restaurants with choices ranging from local New Mexican food to authentic Italian, French and Asian dishes, the city has also earned respect from food lovers. Boasting an average of 300 sunny days a year, many activities can be enjoyed year round including hiking, biking, swimming, ice-skating, horseback riding, white water rafting, hot air ballooning, fly-fishing, and even skiing from November through April.
Jeff Orloff writes about travel destinations and safer ways to travel for the Travel Insurance blog.