The United States is full of charming small towns that are perfect for romance, where you can embrace a slower pace and enjoy beautiful backdrops, quaint cobblestone streets, and architectural gems. Walk hand-in-hand with your loved one and spend your days exploring farmers’ markets, picnic-friendly spots, and wineries and enjoy a quiet ambiance away from the kids. Read on to discover some of the most romantic small towns to visit in the United States.
Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island sits a few miles off the coast of Florida and offers 13 miles of pristine coastline where you can go horseback riding on the beach. Meander through the city’s downtown area to discover boutique shops and quaint restaurants housed in Victorian mansions or visit the Amelia Island Museum of History to learn about the island’s past. Take a sunset walk along the beach or enjoy outdoor adventures, like spotting wildlife on a kayaking tour.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Showcasing the embodiment of Southern charm, Beaufort is one of the oldest towns in South Carolina. Founded in 1709, you can explore its unique history by admiring its stately old homes and buildings that have been converted into B&Bs. Spend a quiet evening at Chambers Waterfront Park gazing out at the picturesque water views, then take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the Boardwalk or the downtown area to learn about the city’s history.
Bar Harbor, Maine
A great place for couples who love nature, Bar Harbor boasts the beautiful natural scenery of Acadia National Park. You can marvel at granite cliffs, acres of pine trees, and a diverse array of local wildlife surrounding this 19th-century town that was once a summer retreat for New England’s wealthiest. Housed in former shoreside mansions, you’ll find beautiful B&Bs, restaurants, and shops to explore, while there’s a pristine beach and plenty of hiking and biking trails to enjoy as well.
Friday Harbor, Washington
Nestled on Washington State’s San Juan Island, Friday Harbor is a hotspot for couples and honeymooners alike. It’s a great place for a romantic getaway, where quaint, wooden-frame houses from the early 1900s line this quaint fishing town that is full of art galleries and restaurants. Dine on succulent seafood platters in local restaurants and admire views of the San Juan Channel, then hop on a whale-watching cruise to see these magnificent creatures from the shore.
Montauk, New York
A perfect escape from the big city, Montauk boasts a romantic charm that you won’t find in nearby cities. Take a journey to the city’s iconic lighthouse, where you can climb up its 200-year-old steps up to the top to admire the sunset on the Atlantic horizon. Soak up the sunshine along the beach and keep your eyes peeled for whales and seals that can be seen from shore, while those seeking a day of outdoor adventures can head to Hither Hills State Park for swimming and kayaking.
St. Simons, Georgia
Located on one of Georgia’s Golden Isles, St. Simons is a great place for a romantic getaway. You’ll find plenty of spots for solitude and seclusion, where you can spend time under live oaks on its white-sand beaches and take a break for lunch at a nearby cafe or set up a picnic for two. Rent bicycles or browse its antique shops, then hike to the local lighthouse before resting your head in one of the beautiful B&B’s and beachfront vacation rentals that dot the area.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
A small seaside city located within an arm’s reach of Boston, Provincetown is a great place to get away from it all. Nestled at the northern tip of Cape Cod, the area is a haven for artists, while outdoor adventurers can find hiking and biking trails to explore at Province Lands Bicycle Trail, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Cape Cod Bay. Pop into locally-owned shops in the picturesque downtown area, lined with boutiques, bookshops, and candy shops.
Stowe, Vermont
Snowbird couples will delight in the sights at Stowe. Sitting in northern Vermont, its rugged landscapes and charming ambiance lure in couples that are looking for a quiet outdoorsy atmosphere. Enjoy the slopes at nearby Mount Mansfield, or visit during the warmer months to enjoy quiet drives through the countryside. To capture stunning mountain views, head to the Stowe Recreation Path that follows the West Branch of the Little River.
Telluride, Colorado
You’ll find peace and quiet in Telluride, as it only boasts one road into town. This small-town gem is located near the southwestern corner of the state, where you can marvel at the San Juan Mountain views or hop on a gondola and admire the nearby scenic canyon. Its postcard-perfect landscapes feature colorful Victorian homes that offer a stark contrast with the Westernness of the downtown area, where you can take a stroll with your loved one and soak up the sights.
Port Townsend, Washington
Port Townsend is a Victorian seaport on the Olympic Peninsula that offers a landscape of stone and brick buildings from the late 1800s and elegant Victorian homes on the bluff. Wander around its picturesque streets and admire the beautiful coastal views as you explore the city’s array of artisan bakeries and creameries, visit the maritime center or hop on a guided kayaking tour to spot its resident orca population nearby.
Galena, Illinois
One of the best small towns in the Midwest, Galena is a charming mountain town known for its picture-perfect Main Street. It’s got everything you need for a romantic getaway, including beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, local vineyards, championship golf courses, and hiking trails. The famous Ulysses S. Grant Home is the city’s most iconic attraction, while Galena Cellars Vineyard and Winery is the perfect spot for a romantic date night with wine flights. Afterward, you can burn calories with a walk along the picturesque Galena River Trail or relax with a jaunt around the city via Galena Trolley Tours.
Santa Rosa Beach, Florida
One of the best beach getaways in Florida, Santa Rosa Beach is a small community located in Walton County on the stunning Emerald Coast. A paradise for beach-loving couples, the biggest draw is the sugar-white sandy beaches lined with sparkling turquoise waters. There is plenty to explore outside of the beach area, as you’ll also find excellent dining, boutique shopping, and attractions. Nearby Topsail Hill Preserve State Park offers a day of hiking, biking, and bird watching, while the funky Gulf Place colony is a haven for artists and creative types.
Ketchikan, Alaska
Adventurous couples should plan a trip to Ketchikan. Located at the southern tip of the Inside Passage, this historic fishing village in Alaska has a picturesque harbor where salmon frequently leap out of the water. Sit and bask in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, which include natural wonders like sparkling lakes, streams, waterfalls, and dense forest. Aside from its natural beauty, you’ll find fun shops to browse, excellent dining options with menus full of fresh seafood, and an award-winning arts scene. For a bucket-list-worthy vacation, add whale watching and flightseeing tours over the Misty Fjords to your list, as well as scenic hikes to Deer Mountain.
Traverse City, Michigan
Nestled on the northeastern side of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is the cherry capital of the world. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as the hiking trails found in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, while autumn reveals picturesque drives where you can soak up the colorful foliage. Visit during the annual National Cherry Festival, admire local art at the Dennos Museum Center or catch a play or concert at the Victorian City Opera House.
Carmel-By-The-Sea, California
A coastal paradise in California and one of the prettiest beach towns in the state, Carmel-By-The-Sea is full of majestic cypresses and white sand beaches. The city began as an artists’ colony, where you can spend your time visiting the city’s offerings of art, theater, and music or simply kicking back at the beach and admiring a sunset. Stay overnight in one of the quaint cottages, where you’ll have easy access to the picturesque downtown area lined with art galleries and local cafes.
