When it comes time for a vacation, consider visiting one of the many small towns scattered throughout the U.S. These small towns are often quaint, off the beaten path, and have more to offer than most tourists realize.

Don’t overlook Bar Harbor, Maine, as a desirable vacation destination. Available accommodations include several cozy bed-and-breakfasts. The vast majority of tourist friendly activities can be found outside. They include culinary, boat, and history tours. Many people that visit Bar Harbor do so because of its close proximity to Acadia National Park, an ideal spot for kayaking, hiking, and biking. And when it comes to the town’s cuisine, fresh seafood leads the culinary scene.

Telluride, Colorado is a small town suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities during the summer and the winter. Each summer sees many local cultural events and festivals. Popular activities during the summer include golfing, hiking, and biking. During the winter months the biggest attraction is the Mountain Village. With 2200 acres of terrain for skiing, the village is busy all winter long.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy a vacation to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The city is known for its scenery, and attracts many visitors due to the location of Grand Teton National Park. The park is extremely conducive to activities like whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and paragliding. Visitors also make it a point to see the National Elk Refuge, where wild elk are often spotted.

Maybe the most well known small town in the U.S. is Lake Tahoe. Situated on the California-Nevada state lines, it is a hot spot for outdoor activities all year long. To many people, Lake Tahoe is synonymous with Squaw Valley, where the 1960 Winter Olympics were held. Other wintertime attractions include skiing at the Homewood Mountain Resort. During the summer the most popular attraction is the Kings Beach State Recreation Area.

Avid hikers often visit Sedona, Arizona for its hundreds of trails. Other attractions include high-end spas, countless wineries, and shopping at the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village.

History buffs and beach bums visit St. Augustine, FL for its many attractions. These include the Salt Run lagoon, Colonial Quarter, St. George Street, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, and Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.