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10 most idyllic villages to visit in the United States

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In a country as large as the United States, there are many beautiful villages and picturesque places to explore. Due to the vastness of the country and the great climatic differences that exist, many of the villages have their own character and appearance. There are many beautiful small villages with wooden houses, little churches, and often with a cute town hall. The stunning nature surrounding some of these villages makes them even more worth visiting. In this article, we've listed 10 of the most idyllic villages to visit in the United States.

1. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

This quiet town is considered one of the most beautiful places in California because of its winding streets, beautiful villas and half-timbered houses. This colorful town was first established as an artistic community for artists and writers. Today Carmel still has about 100 galleries, but in addition, many elegant boutiques and restaurants have been popping up in recent years.

Carmel-by-the-Sea store

Also well worth visiting is the Carmel Mission, one of the best-preserved 21 missions found between San Diego and Sonoma. The chapel and small museum is surrounded by flowering gardens.

Carmel-by-the-Sea beach

Carmel Beach is an attractive powdery sand beach surrounded by Cypress trees and cliffs. If you want to swim or surf, however, you should wear a diving suit, as the water is quite cool even in summer.


2. Stowe, Vermont

Situated in the Green Mountains, Stowe offers stunning views, charming inns, and a quiet village atmosphere. Stowe is a small town in northern Vermont, close to the Canadian border.

Stowe, Vermont from above

It is enclosed by the Green Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian Mountains. Stowe is best known for its extraordinary history and the beautiful resorts built around the town. Sound of Music lovers can feast their eyes at the Trapp Family Lodge, winter sports enthusiasts can visit the huge Stowe Mountain Resort, and ice cream addicts can lick their fingers at the famous Ben & Jerry's factory.

3. New Hope, Pennsylvania

40 miles north of Philadelphia, on the New Jersey border, along the Delaware River you find New Hope. This town is a small miracle, an enclave in the heart of rural Pennsylvania. The village has a diverse and tolerant population, attracted by the wind of freedom that blows through the area.

New Hope, PennsylvaniaPicture by visit Bucks County

Meet its 2,600 inhabitants - New York artists tired of sketching every day in the Big Apple, spiritual hippies, liberated gays, as well as well-heeled couples and relaxed grandparents. Above all, be glad you took the time to come here. With its pretty houses, its good restaurants, its theater (recently renovated) and finally its Delaware River, which separates it from New Jersey.

New Hope is the ideal getaway for city dwellers in search of nature. As locals will tell you, “New Hope is a beachtown, without the beach”. The result is an atmosphere of summer relaxation, even in the middle of winter.


4. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, Washington, is definitely worth a visit. The Bavarian style of the houses and hotels, the German names, the murals, etc. give this town a Bavarian appearance.
It is a popular destination for people from the neighboring cities and visitors to the Pacific Northwest. There are many reasons to love it and even more reasons why you should go.

Leavenworth, WashingtonPicture by travel and leisure

Leavenworth is known for its fantastic weather and variety of terrain. People here love camping and hiking in the summer. But you can visit Leavenworth in the middle of winter, too! There are many wine tasting rooms in town. But once you cross the mountains, it's clear you're in wine country. You can stop in Leavenworth for wine and cider, continue to Cashmere and Wenatchee, and then head south to Yakima or Walla Walla to enjoy even more wine tastings. There are also plenty of options for those who want to hang out in town.

5. Taos, New Mexico

Taos is located in the valley of the Rio Grande in the state of New Mexico, about an hour and a half drive from Santa Fe. The place is known for its popular ski resorts and the mud house settlement Taos Pueblo.

In addition, Taos belongs to one of the most important artist colonies in America, which is why several galleries and several museums have been located here for years, such as the Taos Art Musem with regional works of art. Also, Taos hosts events and festivals throughout the year.

Taos, New MexicoPicture by kayak.com

In the historic center is the Taos Plaza, a nice park with trees and benches, which are surrounded by several stores and restaurants. The town is a unique blend of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures, with cool architecture and a vibrant arts scene.

6. Saugatuck, Michigan

We present to you the artist town of Saugatuck. In addition to a fun and creative culture, this town is also located at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. This is a 400-acre public recreation area whose hilly, wooded dunes are ideal for long walks and bird watching.

Saugatuck, MichiganPicture by FodorsTravel

Thanks to dozens of art galleries, art schools, stores and the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Saugatuck and the surrounding area are also known as The Art Coast of Michigan.

7. Eureka Springs, Arkansas

In the heart of nature near the beautiful Ozark Mountains in Arkansas lies a charming, historic town. With its cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture and lush nature, Eureka Springs is an interesting stop on your tour through the United States.

Eureka Springs, ArkansasPicture by https://eurekaspringsromancebb.com/

Admire the Historic District with its many small stores, art galleries and cozy cafes. Relax in a spa with natural hot springs. Venture into the woods and visit Thorncrown Chapel, a beautiful chapel made of glass and wood. Or look up at the huge statue of Jesus Christ.

8. Marfa, Texas

Among the vast landscapes of western Texas lies the artistic town of Marfa in the Chihuahuan Desert. There are numerous art galleries and authentic stores in this picturesque village. Throughout the year there are many exhibitions by artists.

Marfa, Texas

There is also a huge food culture that includes a number of organic restaurants and Marfa has served as the setting for a few movies. The mysterious Marfa Lights have fascinated people for generations and are still unexplained. For nature, you can visit Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park, both of which are nearby

9. Port Townsend, Washington

Located not far from Seattle, Port Townsend is known for its natural beauty, historic charm and a thriving arts community. Its location on a peninsula makes the city a magnet for sailing races, regattas and water sports festivals.

Port Townsend, Washington

The historic downtown has many Victorian buildings and the many museums, galleries, concerts and music festivals create a vibrant artistic urban culture.

10. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Stockbridge has beautiful scenery thanks to its location between the Berkshire Mountains and the Housatonic River. The river provides the presence of several lakes and beaches.

StockbridgePicture by https://www.checkitofftravel.com/

Theater is at an all-time high in Stockbridge, and the many historic homes recreate the atmosphere of Stockbridge as a summer residence for the wealthy from the eighteenth century.

This article was last updated on May 24, 2024.