Extended Weekend Getaways By Julie Morris
Situated in the heart of Dutch Country and surrounded by Maxatawny Township, Kutztown, Pennsylvania, is a small town with a rich history and a predominantly German heritage. Its 5,000 residents are largely comprised of Pennsylvania Dutch from families that settled in the area as far back as the 17th century. Every summer they put on a folk festival that is worth a visit. This, and other small towns can be ideal for low-stress vacations, especially for those who suffer from depression or anxiety. Here are just a few alluring small towns worth exploring.
Consider Festivals and Flea Markets
Alton, Illinois has the Alton-Audubon Eagle Festival each year, while Pella, Iowa has the Tulip Time Festival, and Shipshewana, Indiana has an enormous flea market with over 700 vendors. Stay tuned as the June issue of Extended Weekend Getaways Magazine will be featuring these festivals with more details.
Seek Out Beauty in Nature
Creede, Colorado is a historic mining town surrounded by stunning mountains. Davis, Oklahoma is near a stunning 77-foot waterfall, and a rock castle built into a hillside. Damascus, Virginia is close to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Luray, Virginia is known for the Luray Caverns.
Go Literary
Why not visit a town known for books? Hobart, NY is a town primarily composed of bookstores. It’s fun to visit homes of favorite authors, such as Pittsfield, Massachusetts, which boasts Herman Melville’s home, Arrowhead. Many small towns lure visitors with tours of authors’ homes.
Enjoy Outdoor Adventures
Spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to give yourself a mood boost when you’re struggling with stress, depression, or anxiety. Many small towns do well by enticing outdoor enthusiasts to visit. Whether your preference is desert, mountains, beach, river, marsh, or forest, there are small towns nearby, happy to host you and offer ample opportunities to unwind. For example, in Hot Springs, North Carolina, you have easy access to camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and of course, soaking in the hot springs.
Find Adventures When You’re on Business
Who says business trips can’t be a form of vacation? Just because you’re out of town for work doesn’t mean you can’t explore a little bit during your downtime. Look for little places to visit along the way, or set aside some extra time after work to explore the region. You may be able to write off this trip on your taxes, though it’s important to take careful notes to prove that you’ve spent more time working than you did enjoying an impromptu getaway!
While there’s plenty to do in these delightful small towns, there’s also ample opportunity to simply do nothing if you want to slow down. If your idea of a vacation includes a slower pace in a less crowded place, Small-town America may be just right for you.
Looking for places to go, things to do, and people to see? Visit Extended Weekend Getaways inbetween each monthly issue to find inspiration for your next vacation!
Julie Morris is a life and career coach. She thrives on helping others live their best lives. It’s easy for her to relate to clients who feel run over by life because she’s been there. More articles may be found on her website at http://juliemorris.org/
