If you want to check out somewhere new this winter, pack your passport and head across the border to soak up everything small-town USA has to offer. For inspiration, here are some places to help you plan your dream trip.
Lafayette, Louisiana
Address: Lafayette, Louisiana
Why You Need To Go: Located two hours west of New Orleans, Lafayette is a cultural hot spot known for its lively festivals, delicious food and rich history that brings together Cajun, French and Creole influences.
Enjoy an authentic Cajun meal of crab fingers, gator bites, catfish, gumbo or shrimp and grits (plus live music) at Prejean's or try out one of the city's unique foodie experiences, like sea-to-table dining or sampling the locally distilled rum.
If you're something of a heat seeker, you'll want to take the Avery Island TABASCO Factory Tour. You'll see where the famed condiment is made and sample a flight of hot sauce at the tasting bar. And for the adventurers, nothing beats an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Basin, where you might even spot a gator or two.
The closest international airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in NOLA, and from there, you can drive about two hours or take a coach to Lafayette.
Franklin, Tennessee
Franklin, Tennessee.
Address: Franklin, Tennessee
Why You Need To Go: If you're visiting from Canada, don't overlook this southern gem. Located only a half-hour drive from Nashville, Franklin delivers charm everywhere you go.
Sign up for a walking tour to enjoy a guided introduction to the downtown area, which boasts modern spots among Franklin's historic buildings.
Must-sees include the GRAY'S on Main, a restaurant inside a former Victorian-era pharmacy; Landmark Booksellers, in an early-1800s building that also served as a Civil War hospital; and The Factory at Franklin, a stove factory from the 1920s that now hosts festivals, movies, concerts and over 30 shops and eateries.
Adventurers can head to nearby Leiper's Fork on an electric bike with Pedego and catch some live music and tasty food at the iconic Fox & Locke. Stop by on a Thursday for their open mic night, which has hosted surprise performances by Carrie Underwood and Wynonna Judd in the past.
To get to Franklin, fly into Nashville International Airport and then cruise an easy 30 minutes south — ideally with some country tunes playing.
Moab, Utah
Adventurers in Moab, Utah.
Address: Moab, Utah
Why You Need To Go: A four-hour drive south of Salt Lake City, Moab is a destination that will leave you changed. Even if you've never been, you'd likely recognize the breathtaking snaps of this picturesque outdoor adventure spot.
Iconic rock formations can be found in Arches National Park, which is just 10 minutes by car from town and features the greatest number of natural sandstone arches in the world.
You can also explore La Sal Range, which is part of the Rocky Mountains, or Dead Horse Point State Park and Canyonlands National Park, where a winter hike or bike ride will treat you to white snow against red rock and a dazzling view of the winding Colorado River.
You can get to Moab by flying to Canyonlands Field Airport via Denver, Colorado, and driving 20 minutes southeast through the stunning desert landscape.
Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
Address: Blowing Rock, North Carolina
Why You Need To Go: Named for a rock formation at the nearby John's River Gorge, Blowing Rock in winter is perfect for Canadians who love the magic of the snowy season but would like something less dramatic.
In town, you'll find stick-to-your-ribs eateries that'll fuel you up for the nearby action and adventure. Six Pence Pub and Town Tavern are good for a solid feed. For something more luxe, check out The Speckled Trout or The Best Cellar Restaurant.
Head out of town for some adrenaline-pumping activities like off-roading with Sky Valley Zip Tours on your own "Mountain Cat" electric vehicle, pulling the ripcord on a four-storey-high swing at High Gravity Adventures or tackling the many hiking trails in the area.
The easiest way to get to Blowing Rock is to fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Charlotte and drive about an hour and 45 minutes northwest as you soak up the stunning mountain scenery.
Charleston, South Carolina
Why You Need To Go: Founded in 1670, this port city on South Carolina's coast has played a pivotal role in the history of the USA for centuries — from the American Revolution to the Civil War and beyond.
If you're a culture and history buff, you can take a ferry to the historical Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor. You can also visit the International African American Museum, which opened in mid-2023 and is located on the site of Gadsden's Wharf, a significant historical landmark.
One of the best ways to soak up modern Charleston is by walking its streets and exploring must-see spots like the colourful houses of Rainbow Row, the pineapple fountain at Joe Riley Waterfront Park and the Charleston City Market.
With its own international airport, Charleston International Airport, this city is one of the easiest to get to on this list from Canada. Whether you're going by car or train, getting downtown from the airport takes about half an hour.
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Address: Folly Beach, South Carolina
Why You Need To Go: If Charleston isn't small enough for you, a 20-minute drive south will take you to Folly Beach, which is just as darling as its name suggests.
With a history that talks of pirates, shipwrecks and military might, Folly Beach has since become a laid-back and eclectic destination popular with vacationers who like things chilled out. Plus, year-round surfing, paddle boarding, swimming and fishing make it a great spot for active travellers.
Because it's nestled along the Atlantic Ocean, you'll enjoy delicious seafood and sushi at local restaurants, from fine dining at BLU Beach Bar & Grill to breathtaking waterfront views at Bowen's Island Restaurant.
Your best bet for getting there is to fly into Charleston International Airport and drive about 35 minutes across the islands to Folly Beach as you soak up the coastal vibes.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
Waters Edge at Stanley Creek, Blue Ridge, Georgia.
@watersedgeatstanleycreek | Instagram
Address: Blue Ridge, Georgia
Why You Need To Go: If you love to take things slow and enjoy a touch of luxury on your getaways, you should look into Blue Ridge. Located in the mountains of northern Georgia, it's a great option for those who love to cozy up in a cabin and watch the mist roll in.
Blue Ridge does everything at a leisurely pace, whether you take a scenic drive through the mountains or a gentle hike to the area's abundant waterfalls. If you need any more proof of the area's commitment to the finer things, the nearby Paradise Hills winery also has a day spa.
Tuck into some local fare at Southern Charm Restaurant or sip creative cocktails at Whiskey & Water. For some mid-century ambiance, catch a movie at the Swan Drive-In Theatre, which has been in operation since 1955.
Getting to Blue Ridge involves flying into Atlanta International Airport and then winding your way north into the mountains for about one hour and 55 minutes.
Venice, Florida
Address: Venice, Florida
Why You Need To Go: Not to be confused with the bustling Venice in Los Angeles, the relaxed town of Venice, Florida, is located on the southwest coast of the state, about an hour and 15 minutes south of Tampa.
Venice's historic downtown dates back to the 1920s and captures the essence of old Florida, with beautiful art deco architecture and swaying palms. It's a great place to soak in some vitamin D this winter, thanks to its many parks and more than 20 kilometres (14 miles) of beaches, where you can hunt for a shark tooth souvenir.
This town is an idyllic destination for outdoor lovers and relaxation fans alike, with warm turquoise water you can bask in all year. You can also surf the waves of the balmy Gulf, fish from the 700-foot-long Venice Fishing Pier and go reef diving.
To get there, fly to the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport and cruise the 45 minutes to Venice — windows down, of course.
Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Fajardo, Puerto Rico.
Address: Fajardo, Puerto Rico
Why You Need To Go: If Florida isn't far enough south for you, "small towns in the USA" can include Puerto Rico too!
About an hour's drive east of San Juan, you'll find Fajardo. This small city is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventurers and those who can't get enough sun — it rarely gets colder than 20 C here (68 F), even in February.
Paddle a kayak across a bioluminescent bay at night, hike to La Zanja for a swim in a naturally formed pool, or relax on one of the many tranquil beaches of Puerto Rico's northeast tip.
A visit to Fajardo wouldn't be complete without a day trip to the beach haven of Culebra Island. Get up early to grab your $4.50 US return ticket out to Culebra and spend the day swimming, snorkelling and taking selfies with Flamenco Beach's iconic abandoned tanks.
The easiest way to get to Fajardo is to fly into Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan, then take a scenic one-hour drive east.
This winter, think outside the box for your next trip and head to one of the many small towns the USA has to offer. Inspired? Visit the USA has the inside scoop on all the destinations worth visiting this season.
To learn more about all the charming small towns you can visit this winter, check out Visit The USA's website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
