Canada — aka the “Great White North” — is the world’s second-largest country, behind only Russia. With 3.8 million square miles to explore, travelers have endless possibilities, from the thunderous cascade of Niagara Falls to the jaw-dropping landscapes of Banff, Canada’s oldest national park. Don’t know where to start? Here are seven of our favorite places to visit in Canada.

Peace Tower – Ottawa

Along with the maple leaf, Ottawa’s Peace Tower is a significant symbol of national pride and heritage. This spectacular 300-foot-tall bell tower stands atop Parliament Hill in the Canadian capital, where it was constructed in the wake of a 1916 fire that destroyed most of the previous structure, the Victoria Tower. Designed by John Andrew Pearson, the tower debuted on July 1, 1927, to commemorate Canada’s Diamond Jubilee of Confederation. 

The neo-gothic tower is decorated with ornate stonework including gargoyles and grotesques. Each side features a working clock face reminiscent of the one gifted to Canada by the United Kingdom in 1927 (the original now sits in the observation deck). The Peace Tower also houses a set of 53 bells, which were heard nationwide as part of Canada’s first live coast-to-coast radio broadcast that coincided with the tower’s opening ceremony. Visitors can pay their respects in the Memorial Chamber, a somber reminder of the 66,000 Canadians who lost their lives defending their country in World War I and whose names are enshrined in the chamber’s Book of Remembrance.

Cape Breton Island – Nova Scotia

The northeastern tip of Nova Scotia is known for rare confluences. Sometimes, they’re literal, as is the case of the Arctic and warm subtropical waters that come together in Bras d‘Or Lake (not actually a lake, but rather an estuary that’s teeming with wildlife — and a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve). But the cultural confluences are no less rare or distinctive. 

Here, you’ll find a blend of Indigenous, Gaelic, and — as the current name would suggest — French influences, which include Celtic fiddling, Acadian dancing, and Mi’kmaq storytelling. This last group, which precedes the others here by millennia, bestowed the name Unama’ki (“land of the fog”) on the island, and the best place to see why is the Cabot Trail. The stunningly scenic roadway — about a third of which runs through Cape Breton Highlands National Park — covers 185 miles of seaside mountains and quaint fishing villages, and is about as bucket-list worthy as road trips get.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac – Québec City, Québec

Among the grandest of grand dames on the North American hospitality scene, this stunning hotel comes by her château title honestly, occupying the grounds of the former Château Saint-Louis. That first outpost, destroyed by fire in 1834, had been the principal administrative seat of Québec’s colonial governments. But it was the Canadian Pacific Railroad Company that set its sights on the property next, with locomotion reshaping the face of the continent and grand railway hotels becoming an increasingly hot commodity around the turn of the 20th century. Architect Bruce Price was brought on board and incorporated classic 16th-century French architecture into his design, and the Château Frontenac Hotel was born in 1893.

Since then, this National Historic Site has boasted an epic guest registry, with Grace Kelly, Charles de Gaulle and Queen Elizabeth among the entries. Most have come for the lavish accommodations alongside the majestic Saint Lawrence River and UNESCO-listed Old Québec, but others had much more sobering motivations: FDR and Churchill met here during World War II’s Quebec Conferences. Having since become a Fairmont property, the hotel remains the city’s most iconic stay.

Casa Loma – Toronto, Ontario

Once the largest private residence in Canada, Casa Loma (Spanish for “Hill House”) was constructed in 1911 for soldier and financier Major-General Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, who co-founded the Toronto Electric Light Company and helped bring electricity to Toronto in the late 19th century. Inspired by Pellatt’s European travels, the 98-room, 30-bath Gothic Revival chateau featured secret passageways, heated flower beds, mahogany and Spanish tile horse stables, a 10,000-book library, and a cellar that contained almost 2,000 bottles of wine. 

All of this extravagance eventually bankrupted the major-general, who was forced to sell many of his prized possessions for a fraction of their worth and eventually left the mansion in 1923. Fortunately for design aficionados and history buffs, Casa Loma is now open to the public as a museum. Stroll the elaborate and beautifully maintained gardens, take in a stunning view of the Toronto skyline, or savor Michelin-starred Italian cuisine under a stained-glass dome at one of the estate’s three restaurants.

Auyuittuq National Park – Nunavut

Its name (pronounced “ow-you-we-took”) is the Inuktitut word for “the land that never melts,” and this 8,000-square-mile reserve on Canada’s Baffin Island certainly lives up to that title. Composed of approximately 85% rock and ice, the glacier-filled Arctic wilderness has the briefest of summers — and some of the country’s most dramatic coastline. A land of whales and seals, caribou and polar bears, it’s the home of the Inuit people and a destination for experienced mountaineers who come to pit themselves against the challenges of its harsh granite peaks. 

James Bond parachuted from one of the twin summits of Auyuittuq’s Mount Asgard in The Spy Who Loved Me, but the most challenging peak in the remote and regal park is Thor Peak. Named for the Norse god of thunder, the mountain’s western face is the longest vertical drop on the planet. Plunging 4,101 feet into the Weasel River valley, the sheer face has a 105-degree angle overhang, making the stomach-dropping descent even steeper than “straight down.” While it has undeniable allure for base jumpers, Thor is strictly off limits — those who attempt to skirt the law (and make it) will find themselves subject to prosecution.

Moraine Lake – Alberta

There are alpine lakes — with their requisite glacier-fed waters and snow-capped mountain backdrops — and then there’s Moraine Lake. Located in Alberta’s Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park, this alpine crown jewel is hidden within the Valley of Ten Peaks in the Canadian Rockies. Though often skipped by tourists in search of the more famous Lake Louise nearby, Moraine Lake is every bit as stunning. The lake owes its unforgettable piercing blue hue to ice melt: As glacial water melts, the water flows into the lake along with bits of glacial silt or rock flour, which are transferred and remain suspended in the lake water, reflecting sunlight. This phenomenon gives the lake its brilliant azure color.

If you want to witness one of Canada’s most photographed spots yourself, lookout points are easily accessible by car, but Moraine Lake’s growing popularity means that spots can fill up quickly in the peak summer months. For the most memorable views, there are several hikes (from easy walks to more strenuous treks), and you can canoe or kayak on the lake in the summer.

Montréal Biosphere – Montréal, Québec

The most eye-catching feature of the Montreal skyline — a 20-story geodesic dome called the Montréal Biosphere — is the work of the visionary American architect Buckminster Fuller. The lightweight but durable structure was created to house the American Pavilion when Montreal assumed hosting duties for the Expo 67 world’s fair. The American Pavilion quickly emerged as the top attraction of the event, transfixing its 5.3 million guests with Fuller’s futuristic design — which even inspired Spaceship Earth at Walt Disney World’s Epcot theme park. 

The Biosphere’s steel lattice exterior weighs more than nine tons and stretches across a nearly 250-foot diameter, which reflects onto the St. Lawrence River from its perch on St. Helen’s Island. The historic exhibition halls now house North America’s first environmental museum, a family-friendly destination filled with interactive exhibits, but you may want to pack a dinnertime picnic and return at dusk, when you can relish one of the Biosphere’s dazzling chromatic light shows.

Victoria – British Columbia

The capital of Canada’s British Columbia province, Victoria is effortlessly charming — from its British-influenced architecture to the expansive gardens, pedestrian-friendly streets, and seaside setting. The area was originally home to people of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations, but after the arrival of the Hudson Bay Company in 1843, it transitioned from a fishing village to a bustling cityscape lined with palatial legislative buildings.

Victoria later became an attractive tourist destination, thanks in part to the Inner Harbour Causeway, a walkway originally constructed in 1903 that still houses market stalls and street performers. One of the star architectural landmarks of the Inner Harbour is the Fairmont Empress Hotel, an Edwardian-style 1908 building that offers both a luxury stay and a spooky adventure for those who believe rumors that it’s haunted. (Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, popping by for afternoon tea is a must.) 

With eight national parks spread out across more than 660,000 square miles, the Alaska wilderness is vast and endlessly beautiful. But in addition to its stunning natural landscapes, the “Great Land” is also renowned for its rich culture and history — and there’s no better place to experience it than in the bustling metropolis of Anchorage. While many visitors opt to visit during the warmer spring or summer months, Anchorage is appealing any time of year. That’s especially true in winter, when, despite the cooler temperatures, the city comes alive with fun themed festivals and cultural attractions, and visitors can score great deals without the crowds. No matter when you choose to visit, here are the best must-sees and hidden gems in Alaska’s largest city.

The Northern Lights

No trip to Alaska is complete without experiencing the northern lights, but did you know there are plenty of excellent viewing locations within a few miles of downtown Anchorage? The aurora borealis is a colorful and awe-inspiring natural light display that illuminates the sky with brilliant swirling tones. In Anchorage, the best time to see the northern lights is from mid-August through April, but this season is particularly special, as it’s anticipated to be a solar maximum — a period that occurs once every 11 years, in which the aurora appears particularly vibrant. 

If you’re looking for a prime viewpoint, drive about 25 minutes from downtown to the Glen Alps Overlook. This 2,200-foot peak can be accessed by easy-to-walk trails and provides some of the best views anywhere in the city, without any light pollution. If you’d prefer to stay in the city core, head to a parking area just off the aptly named East Northern Lights Boulevard. This quiet spot has limited light pollution, allowing guests to view nature’s incredible light show in all its glory.

Alyeska Resort

For those looking to relax and recharge, the Alyeska Resort — located 40 miles southeast of downtown Anchorage — should be at the top of your list. The adults-only Alyeska Nordic Spa, nestled in the shadows of the Chugach Mountains, features cold pools, hot pools, and a variety of treatment options. For those looking for a bit more adrenaline, the resort has a mountain with 76 ski trails that receives over 669 inches of snowfall annually. The resort is also home to the decadent Seven Glaciers restaurant, a fine-dining establishment that offers up delicious meals as well as spectacular views of the seven surrounding glaciers.

Anchorage Fur Rendezvous

Known among locals as “Fur Rondy,” the Anchorage Fur Rendezvous is an annual winter festival that has been held in the city since 1936. If you’ve never attended before, next year is a great opportunity to do so, as the 90th edition of this spectacle is set to take place from February 20 to March 2, 2025. As the largest and oldest winter festival in the entire state, Fur Rondy annually attracts huge crowds of people looking to experience authentic Alaskan culture. 

Popular events include the Running of the Reindeer — akin to the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain — as well as the Outhouse Races, where outhouses on skis are steered through the streets of the city, and the Blanket Toss, a tradition in which people are launched into the air atop a walrus skin. The festival is also renowned for its events that revolve around Indigenous cultures — be sure to check out all of the beautiful Alaska Native art that’s exhibited at the festival year after year.

Leaf Peeping

You may think that leaf peeping is an autumn activity mainly enjoyed in the Northeast United States, but you’d be mistaken — the colorful fall leaves of Alaska are some of the best in the country. Alaska’s fall season generally begins in late August and runs until mid-October, during which time the leaves turn gorgeous shades of yellow and red. These months also mark the harvest season, meaning there are plenty of farmers markets around the city where you can indulge in freshly caught silver salmon and cups of hot apple cider. 

Visitors can also try their hand at wild berry picking — with fresh cranberries, blueberries, and currants found on mountainsides, trails, and even in city parks. Autumn is an excellent time to visit if you’re an animal lover, as you’re likely to see moose wandering in Anchorage. Nearby, you might also be able to watch grizzlies trying to fatten up on salmon before winter arrives.

Alaska Federation of Natives

Held each October, the Alaska Federation of Natives marks the largest annual gathering of any Native peoples in the United States. In 2024, the event will be held at the Dena’ina Center in downtown Anchorage, with the theme “Our Children — Our Future Ancestors.” The event is entirely free for public observers, who can listen to inspiring speeches about the Native peoples’ rich history, view their gorgeous art displays on exhibition, and even participate in traditional Native dances. It’s an essential experience to learn more about the Native peoples who continue to shape Alaska’s history.

Salmon Derby

If you find yourself in Anchorage in June, be sure to visit the Salmon Derby, a popular competition in which anglers vie to reel in the biggest king salmon. You can either watch the pros go at it or rent some gear and try your luck to see if you can win a prize. And if you work up an appetite, head to the nearby Bridge, Co. restaurant for dinner. This unique eatery is built atop a 1920s railroad bridge, where diners can see fishermen right from their table as they dig into fresh Alaska salmon and other fresh, local seafood dishes.

Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse

Speaking of can’t-miss eateries, Humpy’s Great Alaskan Alehouse has served up delicious meals and refreshing brews since 1994, and the restaurant prides itself on the 60-plus beers that it always has on tap. If you’re feeling particularly hungry or ambitious, try your hand at the Kodiak Arrest Challenge. This hefty meal comes with 4 pounds of Alaska king crab, seven crab nuggets, 14 inches of reindeer sausage, tons of tasty sides, and a wild berry crisp with ice cream to top it all off. The price is a whopping $365, but the memories will last long after you leave — whether you finish or not. Those who complete the challenge walk away with not only a free T-shirt but also a spot on the restaurant’s storied Wall of Fame. The current record is held by diner Jefory C., who managed to eat all that tasty food in just 12 minutes and 10 seconds.

Wildbirch Hotel

Anchorage has no shortage of places to stay, from modern hotels to cozy B&Bs, but one of the most exciting new openings of 2024 is the Wildbirch Hotel. The property is located right downtown in the Mushing District, on West 4th Avenue, and some rooms even look out onto the Cook Inlet, where guests can watch the passing ships and may even see a couple of beluga whales. While the hotel is still putting on the finishing touches, its funky retro vibe — right down to the vintage mini fridges in the rooms — and unbeatable location make it a great option for your Anchorage visit.

Ready to go now? Visit Anchorage is your go-to resource for planning the ultimate Alaska vacation.

An air of romance often accompanies long-distance train travel, and for good reason. Traveling by rail offers the chance to sit back and gaze out the window at spectacular urban and natural landscapes. It provides the opportunity to indulge in first-rate service, strike up conversations with fellow train enthusiasts, and fall asleep to the sound of wheels trundling over parallel lines of steel. From the ever-changing scenery of Africa to the wide-open vistas of the Southwest U.S., here are six long-distance rail trips you won’t want to miss.

The Canadian – Canada

Inaugurated in 1955, the Canadian is an epic transcontinental rail journey from Toronto to Vancouver. Over four nights and 2,775 miles, passengers will experience the spectacular natural landscapes that make Canada famous. From Ontario in the east to British Columbia in the west, the train visits five diverse provinces, with the scenery shifting from the shimmering Great Lakes and thick deciduous forests of Ontario to the sprawling prairies of Manitoba, the big blue skies and bright-yellow canola fields of Saskatchewan, and the majestic Rocky Mountains of Alberta.

The Canadian offers three seating classes, with the Prestige Class featuring a concierge service and suites with domed, glass windows to enjoy the scenery. A la carte meals are available to all, and there’s even an onboard wine tasting, too. For those preferring to break up the journey, the Canadian can easily be turned into a hop-on, hop-off rail adventure. Overnight stays are possible in destinations like Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Jasper. 

Blue Train – South Africa

Billed as a “Palace on Wheels,” the Blue Train has been an icon of long-distance train travel since it first set off in 1946. Traveling 994 miles between Cape Town and Pretoria, this epic trip has attracted — and continues to attract — everyone from royal families and dignitaries to honeymooners and celebrities. On the 54-hour cross-country ride, the train passes the sprawling Magaliesburg Mountains, the flamingo-inhabited Kamfers Dam, the arid expanses of the Karoo Desert, and the emblematic Table Mountain, among other sights. 

Onboard the Blue Train, guests are treated to impeccable service, with butlers providing all the bells and whistles. Carriages feature plush suites with elegant furniture, goose-down duvets, and private bathrooms. Dining, too, is an elegant affair, with gourmet meals and fine South African wines. There’s also a lounge car for socializing or simply gazing out at the jaw-dropping scenery.

Reunification Express – Vietnam

The historic Reunification Express connects Vietnam’s vibrant capital of Hanoi with energetic Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s most populous city. Traveling 1,072 miles in around 30 to 35 hours, the long-distance train crosses thousands of bridges and passes through 150 stations, which were all meticulously repaired following the reunification of the country in 1976. Passengers can take in forest-clad mountains and dense jungle, emerald-green rice paddies, pristine coastlines, and expansive wetlands. Notable sights along the way include the ancient city of Hue, the snaking Hải Vân Pass, and the white-sand beaches of Da Nang. 

Travelers can choose between a range of seating classes onboard, such as budget hard seats, shared sleeper cabins, and private rooms. This is by no means a luxury adventure, but it offers an authentic view of Vietnamese culture and nature. The train is used by tourists and Vietnamese locals alike, with a food cart serving traditional Vietnamese food adding to the experience.

Tazara Railway’s Mukuba Express – Tanzania and Zambia

From the highlands of Zambia to Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coastline, Tazara Railway’s Mukuba Express Train provides an unforgettable snapshot of East Africa. The journey covers 1,160 miles in approximately 46 hours. The railway was constructed with the help of Chinese engineers between 1970 and 1975, and is named after the Zambian word for copper (mukuba). Facilities onboard include comfortable shared and private sleeper cabins along with a dining car.

The real beauty of the journey is the scenery — this is one of a few train journeys in the world where it’s possible (though not guaranteed) to spot big game animals from the comfort of your seat. Starting in Tanzania, the train passes through the bustling markets of the capital Dar es Salaam. Then, it crosses Nyerere National Park (formerly called the Selous Game Reserve), which is home to free-roaming elephants and giraffes. The train then trundles underneath craggy escarpments and clings to hillsides in southern Tanzania. After weaving through the green valleys of Zambia, the journey finally ends in the Zambian town of Kapiri Mposhi.

Sunset Limited – United States

First introduced in 1894, Amtrak’s Sunset Limited is the oldest continuously operating named train in the Americas. Crossing 1,995 miles of the American South and Southwest in 48 hours, the journey provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the bayous and plantations of Louisiana and the far-reaching deserts and soaring mountains of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona during a single trip. The last leg the journey trundles over the Californian hills to the Pacific coastline. 

The onboard service provides all the comforts needed to lean back and watch the beauty unfold outside the train’s picture windows. A range of sleeping arrangements, with both shared and private bathroom facilities, are available, and a dining car serves up meals with a Southern spin. Plus, opportunities for adventure abound along the way. Disembark in Alpine, Texas, to visit Big Bend National Park; in Tucson, Arizona, for Saguaro National Park; or in Palm Springs, California, for Joshua Tree National Park. 

Z21 Beijing to Lhasa – China

From the imperial monuments and modern skyscrapers of Beijing, China’s Z21 train embarks on a mammoth 2,336-mile, 40-hour journey to the spiritual Buddhist city of Lhasa. This excursion is a one-of-a-kind experience, as it travels along the world’s highest railroad, the Qinghai-Tibet Railway. It’s also a fairly economical way to appreciate the natural riches of China and Tibet. Options on board include soft sleeper (four-bunk compartments), hard sleeper (six-bunk compartments), and hard seat (seat only). A dining car serves three meals per day, and snack trolleys pass through the carriages regularly.

Leaving the bright lights of urban China behind, the train enters the rural landscapes of the North China Plain and the Gobi Desert. Upon reaching Qinghai, it climbs steadily up into the Tibetan Plateau, with spectacular views of snow-capped mountain peaks and sparkling lakes. At the 16,400-foot-high Tanggu-la Pass, an in-carriage oxygen supply is activated to combat altitude sickness. Finally, you’ll descend toward Lhasa, where robed Tibetan monks, grazing yaks, and villages decorated with multicolored prayer flags await. 

Mountain towns have a way of captivating travelers with their unique mix of natural beauty, local culture, and outdoor adventure in all four seasons. From Asheville’s vibrant arts scene in the Blue Ridge Mountains to North Conway’s classic New England appeal in the White Mountains, these are 10 charming U.S. mountain towns you shouldn’t miss.

Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish, a charming mountain town in northwest Montana, appeals to travelers with its friendly vibe and easy access to outdoor activities. Located near Glacier National Park and home to Whitefish Mountain Resort, it offers year-round adventure — from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, biking, and summer days spent boating and paddle-boarding on scenic Whitefish Lake. 

Downtown Whitefish’s streets are relaxed and welcoming, lined with cafes, bakeries, brewpubs, and boutiques, including galleries showcasing art inspired by the surrounding landscapes. Also known for its thriving music scene, Whitefish hosts the annual Under the Big Sky music festival and other celebrations such as the Whitefish Art Festival and Huckleberry Days. 

North Conway, New Hampshire

New England is home to several impressive mountain ranges, but New Hampshire’s White Mountains are particularly renowned. Mount Washington — the highest peak in New England — is famous for its severe weather and challenging hikes that draw enthusiasts from across the country. North Conway makes the perfect base for exploring it all — and there’s plenty of appeal in the town itself, too.

For starters, North Conway’s charming downtown is filled with antique shops, bookstores, and bakeries, while Schouler Park offers a pleasant green space for picnics. Additionally, as a tax-free state, New Hampshire attracts shoppers with its popular outlet stores. For those who want to admire the abundant nature but aren’t up for tackling the hikes, the historic 19th-century Conway Scenic Railroad — which boards right in town — is a fantastic way to experience New England’s quintessential beauty.

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Pagosa Springs, best known for its natural hot springs and stunning mountain scenery, is located on the banks of the San Juan River in southwest Colorado. The town is home to the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, according to Guinness World Records, 1,002 feet of which have been measured by plumb line. The Mother Spring Aquifer feeds dozens of local soaking pools, including those at Overlook Hot Springs Spa, Healing Waters Resort and Spa, and the popular Springs Resort and Spa (which has 45 pools). 

The hot springs are the perfect complement to the outdoor pursuits in and around Pagosa Springs. The surrounding San Juan National Forest offers hiking, fly fishing, and rafting, while nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area attracts skiers and snowboarders with fresh powder and uncrowded terrain. The downtown area clusters around the San Juan River, and it’s lined with historic buildings housing local shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the riverside brewpub Riff Raff Brewing Company, which uses geothermal heat from the town’s hot springs to brew its beer.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is surrounded by sweeping natural landscapes that range from rolling hills to lush forests and picturesque peaks. Nearby, the Blue Ridge Parkway — nicknamed “America’s Favorite Drive” for good reason — winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering some of the best scenic views in the country.

Encircled by several national forests and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Asheville provides easy access to some of the best hiking on the East Coast. But Asheville also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with an abundance of galleries, public art installations, and music venues. Adding to Asheville’s distinctive charm is the historic architecture that adorns the downtown area.

McCall, Idaho

McCall is a small mountain town of about 4,000 people that’s buzzing with activities during all four seasons. It sits on the shores of Payette Lake, a glacial lake located at an elevation of 5,000 feet, where you can swim, paddleboard, fish, or take a scenic cruise when it’s warm out. In winter, the frozen lake hosts an annual Winter Carnival with impressive ice sculptures, parades, and fireworks. Brundage Mountain Ski Area is just a short drive away, while nearby natural hot springs are perfect for a relaxing soak. 

Downtown McCall centers around Lake Street and the marina, with casual restaurants, coffee shops, gear outfitters, breweries, and Legacy Park, where you can catch the sun setting over the water after a day filled with activities.

Truckee, California

Lake Tahoe is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning peaks, drawing crowds for its outdoor activities. For a similar experience with fewer people, head to Truckee, located 15 miles north of Tahoe City. Truckee offers a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere and is close to Donner Lake, which offers camping, fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, and biking in summer, along with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.

In addition to its natural beauty, Truckee boasts a rich heritage in logging, ice harvesting, and the Emigrant Trail. Named after a Paiute chief who assisted emigrants heading west, Truckee was also a key site for railroad construction in the 1860s. The historic downtown retains its Old West charm with antique brick buildings housing art galleries, unique shops, and restaurants.

Ashland, Oregon

Ashland is one of the most vibrant and interesting towns in southern Oregon. Its charming and walkable downtown is filled with brick buildings, bookstores, art galleries, cozy restaurants, and wine bars. Despite its small size (around 21,000 people), Ashland is a major cultural hub in Oregon and a strong supporter of the arts. 

The city is best known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which draws theater lovers from across the country and around the world. It also hosts the Ashland New Plays Festival, which showcases local playwrights, and the Oregon Chocolate Festival. Events aside, Ashland offers beautiful parks (such as the scenic 100-acre Lithia Park), nearby hiking trails, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere that makes it feel both sophisticated and approachable. 

Davis, West Virginia

With a population of roughly 600 residents, Davis is an under-the-radar town on the Blackwater River in West Virginia’s Canaan Valley. Davis offers easy access to a number of state parks and trail systems for hiking and mountain biking. Blackwater Falls State Park is especially popular for its striking 62-foot waterfall, one of the most photographed places in the state. Canaan Valley Resort State Park draws mountain bike enthusiasts during the warmer months and skiers in the winter, while Dolly Sods Wilderness is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic vistas, and wildlife viewing.

On a rest day, discover the Highlands Scenic Highway, which offers picturesque views of the mountains and valleys, along with access to various other charming small towns. Despite its compact size, Davis boasts excellent local food, breweries, and unique shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings.

Durango, Colorado

Often overlooked for larger mountain towns such as Aspen, Durango is a hidden gem in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. Nearby, Mesa Verde National Park boasts over 4,700 archaeological sites, including the famed 700-year-old cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo peoples. Meanwhile, San Juan National Forest provides serene forests and scenic lakes such as Vallecito and Lake Nighthorse for a refreshing dip.

After a day of adventure, enjoy a craft beer at one of Durango’s many local breweries or a delicious meal in the historic downtown area. Be sure to stroll down Main Avenue to browse art galleries, visit the Railroad Museum, and lunch like a local at 11th Street Station food truck park. Finally, a visit to Durango isn’t complete without a ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway. This historic journey offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s railway heritage, all while showcasing Colorado’s breathtaking scenery.

Banner Elk, North Carolina

Banner Elk is a laid-back Blue Ridge Mountain town that sits between Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort, making it a popular base for skiing and snowboarding in winter. The warmer months offer hiking, fly fishing, and drives along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway. 

Banner Elk also has an excellent food scene, along with local wineries and craft breweries and unique traditions like the annual Woolly Worm Festival, centered around a popular worm race. A ride on Banner Elk’s Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster is not to be missed, and just outside of town is Grandfather Mountain, one of the tallest peaks in the Blue Ridge range. It’s known for its panoramic views from the Mile High Swinging Bridge, a 228‑foot suspension footbridge sitting about 5,280 feet above sea level.