The end of July is here already, but there is plenty of summer left to enjoy. If you’re looking for an interesting road trip or maybe just a way to spend a day exploring a new place, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best sleepy towns in America that capture the beauty, spirit and history of this country.
While this list is in no particular order, we just have to kick it off with a town with a population of about 50. Does it get any sleepier than that?
Mooresville, AL
At 200 years old, Mooresville is one of the oldest incorporated towns in Alabama and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Amazingly, the town population was estimated to be no more than 60 people in 2018 and has managed to retain a picturesque early 19th century village. Must-see spots are the Stage Coach Inn and Tavern and the Mooresville Post Office which has call boxes that have been owned by the same families since before the Civil War.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
This is a classic summer destination in the region, a harbor village nestled between the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior described as artsy and quirky by its residents. As the oldest art colony in the state, it draws musicians, artists, photographers and artisans from all over. It is equally enjoyable for families and adventurous travelers, offering many local shops with crafts and treasures, cafes, restaurants and outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.
Nashville, Indiana
Not a typo, this Nashville is in Indiana and filled with art galleries and fine restaurants that make it a terrific day trip for browsing or shopping. But it is also perfect to enjoy the outdoors with 170,000 acres of forested land nearby. Brown County State Park is the state’s largest park and is a fall favorite with almost 20 miles of tree-lined roads and scenic vistas.
Ocracoke Island, North Carolina
Wild ponies believed to be descendants of Spanish Mustangs roam Ocracoke Island. Home to about 1,000 people, much of this slim island on the Outer Banks of North Carolina is mostly undeveloped Cape Hatteras National Seashore and is only accessible by boat or plane.
Ouray, Colorado
It might be the non-sulphur hot springs that make this one of the most relaxing towns you’ll ever visit. Or it could be the beautiful mountains that surround Ouray. To take in those majesty of those mountains, take to the San Juan Skyway, one of the most scenic drives in America that spans elevations from 6,200 feet at Cortez to above 11,000 feet at Red Mountain Pass.
Hanalei, Hawaii
It doesn’t get more picturesque than this charming town on Kauai’s north shore just a few minutes west of Princeville. While it is certainly a sleepy town, there’s no shortage of things to choose from – many watersport activities, national wildlife refuge, farmer’s market, Hanalei Bay and the historic Hanalei pier.
Noank, Connecticut
While nearby Mystic is better known, Noank is less crowded and just as captivating. Its tree-lined streets and marina views give that quaint feeling visitors and its roughly 1,800 locals want as they browse and shop the many small shops in this sleepy New England village. Abbott’s is popular seafood restaurant that has been said to have legendary status for its lobster.
Grand Rivers, Kentucky
Known as “the village between the lakes,” Grand Rivers has so much to offer with unique shops, good restaurants and plenty of fun lakeside activities. If you can, plan a Christmas season visit to enjoy the annual Festival of Lights, a beloved holiday celebration that only makes this sleepy town more magical.
