8 Charming Family-Friendly Small Towns in the US

Let’s discover America’s family-friendly small towns!

Families often seek out family-friendly small towns to visit to spend time together while breaking away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. And we get it!

From the West to the East Coast, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico, the mixed geography and culture of our country are indeed apparent to anyone who travels across the nation.

Whether it’s discovering the desert areas of the Southwest or the colonial roots of America, something is exciting for every family member in the family-friendly small towns across the USA.

These places offer history, charm, and a slower pace of life without having to compromise on activities for your family. So, without further ado, here are our 8 favorite family-friendly small towns in the US!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

As the perfect entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park, this family-friendly small town is a classic family destination and one of the best small towns in the South.

It’s practically an outdoor playground that has so much to do, including fishing, hiking, whitewater rafting, and bird watching.

If your family is feeling adventurous and wishes to brave mountain heights, there’s the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, North America’s longest suspension pedestrian bridge.

And for those looking for astonishing views, the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway offers a 2-mile ride up the mountain to the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park. The bottom line is that there’s something for everyone here!

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Frankenmuth is known as the area’s “Little Bavaria,” a nickname apparent in the town’s history and gingerbread-style structures. As one of the best charming and family-friendly small towns in Michigan, it’s an excellent family destination.

The German architecture found throughout the location links back to its German roots. It boasts plenty of Bavarian-style restaurants, alpine decor, and entertaining Glockenspiels. Take a stroll along Main Street to discover bits and pieces of Bavarian magic.

A decorative Maypole ringing in the springtime, the song of an accordion player floating through the streets, or stumbling upon historical markers describing unique aspects of the city. But that’s not all!

This family-friendly small town is home to two indoor water parks, including the one at Bavarian Inn Lodge, which will include Michigan’s largest indoor water park soon.

Families will also want to check out Bronner’s, the world’s largest Christmas store. This massive shop has been around since 1945 and charms kids and adults every season.

Carbondale, Colorado

Located in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley, the family-friendly small town of Carbondale is surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, making it a genuinely panoramic getaway.

In addition to its stunning surroundings, families can enjoy great local food and plenty of outdoor activities sure to never leave you with a dull moment.

In this family-friendly small town, you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, biking, rock climbing, or stroll through Main Street for a charming slice of small-town USA.

And, of course, you can catch the Wild West Rodeo every Thursday, allowing the whole family to enjoy some authentic bull riding, calf roping, and some old-fashioned cowboy fun!

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Lying at the base of the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, this family-friendly small town is a spirited town in New Mexico that offers a diverse selection of things to see and do.

Families will rejoice in the array of adventures for kids in and around town, including mountain biking, hiking, and architecture. Children can also participate in interactive experiences at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum.

You can even learn to cook delicious Mexican grub with the whole family at the Santa Fe School of Cooking or participate in complimentary art programs for families at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.

You’ll also find year-round swimming and ice skating at the Genoveva Chavez Center and free events throughout the park at the Santa Fe Railyard each season.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Found right in the center of a 60-mile-long stretch of sandy beach known as “The Grand Strand,” the town of Myrtle Beach is a truly dynamic seaside hotspot that’s perfect for any family vacation.

With lovely white-sanded beaches, fantastic golf courses, breathtaking natural scenery, and an abundance of high-quality dining, millions of tourists visit this town each year.

While here, you can take a fun ride on the SkyWheel Ferris Wheel, enjoy walks on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, take a relaxing boat cruise under the shining sun, and stroll through the Brookgreen Gardens.

In this family-friendly small town, there’s never a lack of activities and things to try.

Charlottesville, Virginia

Sleeping against the backdrop of Blue Ridge Mountain backdrop, this family-friendly small town is scenic and offers an array of beautiful experiences. Explore the rich history of the town with a stop at Monticello, a World Heritage Site and the home of Thomas Jefferson.

And you can also visit the University of Virginia, which was one of his biggest legacies. Soak up the lively, bustling energy at the legendary farmers market, where sounds, sights, and colors abound.

While you’re here, make sure you don’t miss the Virginia Discovery Museum, where kids can learn and explore through interactive activities. Finally, get in tune with Mother Nature with a go-at-your-own-pace hike in Shenandoah National Park.

Moab, Utah

Moab is an adventurer’s playground. But it also happens to be where you can stretch your legs or sharpen your skills in nearly every outdoor activity known to man. There are countless things to do while in this family-friendly small town.

And it’s famous for families for a good reason. It’s a beautiful area chock-full of family-friendly attractions. First, it has not one but TWO national parks at its doorstep: Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park.

This charming small town is also the Dead Horse Point State Park site, home to some of the most picturesque views in the state. So you might want to pick up a pair of hiking shoes from Amazon!

And if that’s not enough, you can take your family and go on a dinosaur hike to explore the Moab Giants Dinosaur Park, get active at Sand Flats Recreation Area, or visit numerous movie filming locations on your Moab family vacation!

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

On the jaws of the Connecticut River, Old Saybrook and its 10,000 inhabitants are a postcard-perfect Atlantic coastal settlement.

Established in 1635 as the Saybrook Plantation, this family-friendly small town is full of history and a fantastic place to find some peace and quiet on your family getaway.

While here, you can explore the Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1886, visit Harvey’s Beach, or rent a kayak and embark onto the waves for warm breezes unique to this area of our country.

Looking for amazing ocean views? Try a game of mini golf at the Saybrook Point course, where putting and gazing at the sea have never been better.

We hope you enjoyed reading about all the charming family-friendly small towns of America. But if you’re looking for even more options for your next trip, we highly suggest you check out: 6 Must-See Picturesque Places You Should Add to Your Bucket List