1. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a quaint little town nestled away in Mt. Desert Island in Maine. Acadia National Park is a huge destination for many, but Bar Harbor is less frequented with plenty of offerings. Nestled away in the lush Maine island, this isn't only a great place to watch birds and whales, but it's vibrant with autumnal colors in fall.
2. Stowe, Vermont
Whether you're looking for a picture-perfect ski village in the winter, a colorful canvas in the fall, or a hidden oasis in the summer, Stowe is a versatile town that radiates with activity every season. Farms, boutiques, and delicious restaurants flourish in this small town tucked away in the Green Mountains.
3. Bennington, Vermont
This historic town is the site of the Battle of Bennington in 1777. Commemorating the battle is a 306-foot monument that towers over the trees, but that's not all — painted ceramic moose sculptures can be seen across the town as well, "Ambassadors of Friendship" to residents and tourists alike.
4. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Just 60 miles outside of Boston, Portsmouth is an easy getaway and shopper's paradise. Boutique shops and local restaurants line the streets in their picturesque downtown, not to mention all the shopping is tax free. For a little scenery, walk amongst the lush flower garden resting in Prescott Park, or check out its art festival.
5. Provincetown, Massachusetts
Provincetown is a small town unlike any other. Quirky, colorful, lively, and always entertaining, it's a safe haven of art, self-expression, and simplistic living. Referred to by locals as "The End of the World," it rests at the tip of Cape Cod and is filled to the brim with fascinating artists and other eccentric types.
6. Block Island, Rhode Island
If you love the outdoors, you'll fall in love with the secluded and serene beach town of Block Island. Measuring in at only 10 square miles, there's no shortage of beautiful landscapes, outdoor excursions, fishing holes, restaurants, and shops to keep you entertained. With the strong outdoorsy feel, Block Island tends to be a bit more calm and quiet island, attracting more down-to-earth crowds.
7. Mystic, Connecticut
The lovely coast seaside town of Mystic, Connecticut, is home to a re-creation of a 19th-century seaside village, many historical museums and tours, as well as some incredible food (there's even a movie named after one of the restaurants). It's the perfect place for all sea lovers to come and learn and engulf themselves in all things sea related.
8. Sag Harbor, New York
During the summer, New York residents flock from the city to places like Fire Island and Montauk. However, there's one little town in the Hamptons that's got everything Montauk has to offer with half the crowd. In Sag Harbor you'll be able to experience plenty of art galleries, restaurants, shops, and serene beaches — and hopefully some piece of mind too.
9. Cape May, New Jersey
If a flashy boardwalk and plenty of people at the beach aren't necessarily your thing, venture further down the Jersey Shore to the quiet town of Cape May. This seaside town is a preserved piece of Victorian history, showcasing plenty of Victorian bed-and-breakfasts with rocking chairs and no shortage of great views — it's one Northeastern beach you don't want to miss.
10. Bethany Beach, Delaware
Coming to Bethany Beach is like stepping into a resort town. It has beautiful scenic views all around, a long boardwalk providing a perfect dose of local flavor, and tax-free shopping. There are plenty of recreational activities and resort-like amenities that everyone in the family will love.
11. St. Michaels, Maryland
Dating back to the mid-1600s, St. Michaels is a slice of history before your eyes. Rich in attractions and diversity, this beach town boasts a blend of Colonial and Victorian homes, churches, museums, art galleries, and some of the best crab legs you can find on the East Coast. With a heavy focus on tourism, this East Coast getaway is perfect for any food lover or history buff.
12. Chincoteague, Virginia
Chincoteague Island is Virginia's only resort island and a great getaway from city life. It's been inhabited by wild ponies for hundreds of years, which can be seen grazing all over the island, so it's not your typical getaway destination!
13. Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Blowing Rock is one of those safe havens, untouched by the fast-paced tendencies of modern society. Voted "The Prettiest Small Town in North Carolina," it come complete with lush green rolling hills, classic Victorian homes, and a total of two stoplights. You can't get much more small town than Blowing Rock.
14. Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort may be becoming less of a secret, but somehow this Southern town has managed to maintain the same charm and culture that keeps drawing people back. Whether you're looking for art, food, music, museums, or leisure, Beaufort offers it all and ties it all together with its irresistible Southern charm.