6 Charming East Coast Small Towns for Your Next Getaway

How familiar are you with the east coast’s small towns?

While we’re all familiar with the main destinations on the East Coast, like New York, DC, Chicago, and Miami, they aren’t the only ones worth visiting on this part of our country. These days, small towns in the US are having their moment in the spotlight.

People have been looking beyond those shining bright lights of cities like Boston and seeking out places with fewer tourists and easier access to Mother Nature.

With this change, folks are discovering a completely different side of our country… one with plenty of elbow room!

Whether you’re looking for an accessible destination or a new town you’re looking to call home, we’ve come up with a list of some of the most charming small towns on the East Coast to make your quest a bit easier.

So, if you want to steer clear of the crowds, have a leisurely getaway, or you simply wish to discover a more scenic side of the United States, one of these 6 magnificent towns on the east coast will be perfect for you!

Kennebunkport, Maine

This east coast location used to be a fishing and shipping village. But nowadays, it’s been recast as one of the most popular summer destinations in the US.

This coastal town sees more visitors in the summer months, but it’s the sort of place you can visit throughout the year. Beautiful quaint shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants line the streets.

On a warm day, beach lovers can explore the sandy and pristine Colony beach. Or you can hit up the long sandy shores at Goose Rocks Beach or Arundel Beach. You’ll find boat and kayaking tours and other forms of water activities awaiting you at this beach.

You can also ride one of the restored vintage streetcars at the Seashore Trolley Museum when the temperatures dip. But no matter the weather, top off your day in typical east coast fashion by grabbing a lobster roll and strolling through the town’s shops and galleries!

Helen, Georgia

This small town is one of the most charming German-style towns on the East Coast. It’s a fantastic place to visit if you want to embark on a European trip without actually leaving the country.

The charming town is incredibly quaint, and you’ll love strolling around taking pictures. As for the food, you’ll also be in for a real treat since Helen is home to many delicious European bakeries and cafes.

Hofer’s of Helen, for example, is a fantastic place to grab some German-style cakes and sweets. But if you’d rather enjoy a savory treat, then head on over to Chattahoochee Cheese Market for a cheese platter or sandwich. But that’s not all!

This east coast town is also well-known for its outdoor activities. The Chattahoochee River is particularly popular for its tubing adventures. So, if you’re visiting during summer, you should definitely give it a try!

But above all else, Helen is particularly famous for its beer! Visit during fall, and you’ll find loads of German bars serving mouthwatering beer at Oktoberfest!

Woodstock, Vermont

This east coast location is, without a doubt, among the most picturesque small towns on this side of the United States. It’s an amazing place to get a feel for what Vermont is really like. The locals are friendly, and you can truly enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway.

History buffs will love exploring the historic buildings in the town, such as the Norman Williams public library, the Billings Farm and Museum, and The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. This area is particularly worth visiting for its dairy farm.

At the farmer’s market or the market in the main square, you’ll find fresh produce, food stalls, as well as local crafts. If you love cheese, you will be in for a treat! There are many cheese farms in the area where you can sample the delicacies.

But if beer is more your thing, you should head over to the Long Trail Brewery, where you can try some of the best beers on the east coast. Woodstock is also a great destination for people who want to explore the outdoors since there are so many walking trails.

PRO TIP: If you’re looking for a Christmas town to visit this year, this small town is your best bet! It transforms into a magical wonderland when December rolls around!

Beaufort, South Carolina

This east coast island town has a historic district that’s definitely well worth your time. Beaufort was established more than 300 years ago. It’s one of the most scenic areas in all of South Carolina. When visiting, you’ll notice that the houses have one common theme.

They’re all built in the neoclassical architectural style. These designs are referred to as antebellum architecture, where houses are built in the Georgian and Greek-style, with large pillars supporting box-like, white-washed structures.

The streets in the town are narrow and winding, with blocks paving the ground. The locals are very friendly, and the entertainment scene is lively. When you’ve had enough of sightseeing, pick up some dinner at Saltus River Grill, followed by some yummy ice cream at YoYo’s.

After which, you can take a leisurely stroll along oak-sheltered walkways to watch the sunset on the stunning marina at the edge of town.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just half an hour’s drive away from Savannah, this east coast island town’s sandy beaches attract beach lovers from throughout the US.

The actual drive to the town is worth seeing as well, with beautiful tall palm trees lining up the way and taking you up to the edge of town and beyond it.

We recommend taking a dolphin and whale-watching cruise with Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours or Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventures. You’ll also find the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia while visiting here. It dates all the way back to 1736!

If you choose to see The Tybee Island Museum and lighthouse tour, it includes military history and a climb into the lighthouse itself. But for some downtime, there are a few quaint little shops where you can browse for some unique gifts and locally crafted art.

And, of course, don’t forget to try the delicious local cuisine while here!

Tarpon Springs, Florida

Not far from Tampa, this charming small town is best known as the sponge capital of the world, and it’s one of the loveliest European towns on the East Coast. In this part of the US, most influences tend to go towards the Spanish, French, or German.

But in Tarpon Springs, it’ll be like you’re going to Greece! The area is home to one of the highest concentrations of the Greek population in our country. That means you’re guaranteed to find some delicious and authentic Greek food here.

Between the restaurants and the markets, you’ll be in for a treat. Yet the very best place to get some grub and truly get to experience the location is Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks.

This is where you’ll find a ton of sponges, and you can even see dolphins swimming and jumping around in the water. But if you simply want to spend your getaway relaxing in the sun, we recommend you go to Sunset Beach or Fred Howard Park.

We hope this article on our favorite small towns on the east coast has helped you find your next getaway.

But if by chance it hasn’t, we’ve got many more fantastic suggestions for you, including this one: 5 Incredible US Places That Don’t Feel Like the US