Burlington, VT

As the home of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream, with endless options for skiing, hiking, biking, and boating, this northeastern hub is often described as a laid-back and friendly place, making visitors feel at home.

Burlington might be the largest city in Vermont, but it has the feel of a charming small town with a population of about 42,000. It has an artsy vibe that’s helped attract young and friendly locals who are quite likely to welcome you just as if you were one of their own.

In the summer months, you can find a festival almost every weekend, like Brewers Fest, Jazz Fest, and Art Hop. And the farmers’ market on Saturdays is a great place to stop for lunch and grab some locally-grown produce.

If you visit, be sure to pack a picnic basket and check out the view from Waterfront Park and stay for the glorious sunset. As the sun begins to set over the Adirondacks, the landscape is sprinkled with hues of pink and purple, grabbing the attention of locals and visitors alike.

So which one of these friendly places was your favorite? Be sure to let us know in the comments below. And if you liked this article, we also recommend reading: 6 Best Trips to Take in Your 60s