New micro-trends in the industry always seem to be creeping up, especially as travelers redefine what a “traditional” vacation looks like. Townsizing is one of them, having gained significant momentum in 2025 because of its emphasis on relaxation and peace in small towns. Want to learn more about the trend capturing the attention of the leisurely? Keep reading to discover townsizing and some of the best destinations in the U.S. for it.
The Appeal of Slowing Down
Even the everyday person who thrives on busy weeks, rigid schedules and the chaos of balancing life finds themselves dreaming of a day when nothing needs to get done and the hours after waking up are blissfully empty. Townsizing offers just that — slow mornings meant for sleeping in, casual strolls through charming downtown areas for good eats and the occasional activity that puts a little pep in the step. At its core, travelers are seeking simplicity.
Another townsizing pro is its affordability. Many vacationers will find that their budgets can stretch further in off-the-radar destinations, as entrance fees, food, activities and lodging prices aren’t driven by the demands of high-season tourism. Connection is another perk often cited by these travelers. The slow pace of exploration that’s common in townsizing destinations encourages visitors to truly soak in the uninterrupted time with themselves, their travel companion(s), the locals around them and the town itself.
While the premise of a townsizing-inspired getaway remains consistent among travelers, a 2025 Priceline report noted that vacationers are motivated by different criteria. Boomers, for instance, choose their small-town destination with one goal in mind: enjoyment and relaxation. Gen Z, on the other hand, is more interested in living out their movie fantasies, with 67% going for destinations that look like they’ve been plucked directly from a Hollywood set. The distinction may feel insignificant, though it’s important to keep in mind when identifying some of the key places travelers gravitate towards.
Beaufort, North Carolina
One of the oldest towns in North Carolina and located in the state’s Inner Banks region, Beaufort is an enchanting seaside destination best for history and nautical excursions. Similar to the setup of traditional small towns, Beaufort has a walkable downtown area filled with independent shops, galleries and restaurants.
A visit to the North Carolina Maritime Museum is a frequently recommended activity, with the attraction showcasing excavated relics from sunken ships and a collection of rare and exotic shells, among other exhibits. Fishing charters, sunset cruises and even a boat tour out to the Rachel Carson Reserve for wild horse sightings are a few of the other options available to visitors to take in Beaufort’s stunning coastal landscapes.
Millerton, New York
Millerton was founded in 1891 and is an adorable town perfect for casual outdoor experiences. The destination boasts its own array of trails for the active visitor, including the Harlem Valley Rail Trail and Iron Mine Pond, though more well-known attractions are located only a stone’s throw away. The Alander, Taconic and Catskill Mountains are all near Millerton, each offering hikes of varying difficulty that get travelers up and exploring New York’s underrated mountain scenery.
Back in town, establishments like Irving Farm, Harney & Sons and Oakhurst Diner (a 50s-styled restaurant) are some of the popular stops to refuel and relax. Shopping at Millerton Antique Center or Old Mill of Irondale, catching a showing at the independent film theater, The Moviehouse and perusing boutique storefronts rounds out a visitor’s quiet weekend getaway here.
Clarksdale, Mississippi
Raw, authentic and inspiring — three words that capture the rugged vibe of Clarksdale. This charming Southern town is considered the birthplace of blues, and listening to live music or exploring its melodic history is naturally at the center of visitors’ itineraries. Nearly every establishment or hotel offers live performances on a nightly basis, so a great way for travelers to kick off their townsizing getaway is with some groovy beats at Ground Zero Blues Club or Red’s Juke Joint.
Those who seek variation in their day-to-day adventures can also achieve that here, with Clarksdale’s outdoor excursions and downtown experiences. An afternoon spent canoeing or kayaking on the Mississippi River is one option, or travelers can book a jeep tour of the Mississippi Delta for a real change of pace. Along the town’s main streets, visitors can peruse the vibrant murals along the buildings, sip a local blend at Red Panther Brewery and shop for a souvenir or two at Magpie Gift & Art.
Three Rivers, California
If travelers are visiting here, it’s because they are completely infatuated with the great outdoors and all it has to offer. Three Rivers is a small Sierra Nevada foothill village, home to just over 2,000 residents and the epitome of reconnecting with nature. Think swimming in the Kaweah River, fishing and kayaking in Lake Kaweah or hiking along the nearby trails — any standard activity generally associated with a fun lake day is what travelers will find in Three Rivers. The town’s best feature, however, is its proximity to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Both locations are beautiful, presenting travelers with the opportunity to explore unique facets of California’s terrain, like towering sequoia trees.
Hood River, Oregon
Go dig out those walking shoes and dust them off because Hood River is another destination for the outdoor traveler. While the town does have a larger population at roughly 8,300 residents, Hood River does still possess the quaint atmosphere that townsizing travelers are after. Oak Street is the town’s main thoroughfare, filled with eclectic shops, boutiques and eateries that give visitors a taste of the town.
The real appeal of Hood River lies in its hiking. In particular, the Hood River Fruit Loop is a 35-mile driving or biking route that takes travelers past 27 farms and businesses. Along the way, adventurers can dine on local products like apples, pears, cherries, blueberries, baked goods, cider, beer, wine and whiskey — evidently, this trail is a popular one. A trek to the top of Dog Mountain boasts breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge, and out on the water, sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding are a must.
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