Latest news with #smalltowns
Fox News
03-06-2025
- General
- Fox News
Hot travel trend has people 'townsizing' by visiting quaint American towns
As Americans begin to embark on their summer vacations, a new travel trend has people seeking "quaint" destinations. Priceline released its annual travel trends report for 2025 — and one trend, "townsizing," is giving some under-the-radar destinations the limelight. "Americans are seeking simplicity and will travel to find it," the press release notes. People are opting "for quaint, comfy respites in America's small towns." "The trend toward small towns offers different benefits for different generations," it adds. "While boomers are most likely to feel that small towns are more relaxing, Gen Z is 'townsizing' as a way to indulge in the charming, quaint moments depicted in their most comforting movies." Gen Z is 89% more likely than average travelers to seek out a vacation that offers a "Nancy Meyers lifestyle," according to the report. Destinations such as Old Saybrook, Connecticut; North Wildwood, New Jersey; and Cape Cod in Massachusetts are examples of quieter towns that encompass the coastal movie charm in many of Meyers' movies. The report adds that 67% of Gen Z are "more likely to see a vacation as an opportunity to live out their small-town fantasies." "These types of trips are for people who want to sit back, relax and take their time exploring the local shops and restaurants of a quiet area - away from the hustle and bustle of a big city," Adam Duckworth, president and founder of Travelmation, told Fox News Digital. Indiana-based travel adviser at Travelmation, Amy Thomasson, told Fox News Digital she is seeing the trend spark near her home. "The New Baden/French Lick area is a perfect example of townsizing," said Thomasson. "These travelers are less interested in ticking off the boxes of what everyone says they should do on vacation and instead turning to more experiential trips where they can make memories in a new and exciting location," she added. Thomasson says she's noticed the trend become very popular with more clients seeking easy weekend getaways. "They are looking for a place they can easily drive to that has good hotel options and fun things to do. They want to go off the beaten path but not be inconvenienced," she said. Thomasson says the trend also allows travelers to save money and avoid the hassles of flying — giving people a more relaxed pace for their vacation.
Hospitality Net
03-06-2025
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Hotel Market & Feasibility Studies: Connecting Vision with Viability in Untapped Markets
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, macroeconomic trends have helped breathe new life into secondary and tertiary hotel markets. The shift to hybrid and remote work, an increase in highway tourism, and a strengthening of the logistics and manufacturing sectors have supported a resurgence of leisure and commercial hotel demand in many small and medium-sized communities. These factors, among others, have generated interest in new hotel development in these areas, often by local municipalities and/or economic development organizations. However, these smaller markets often fly under the radar of well-established hotel development groups, many of which are facing significant headwinds from rising construction and capital costs in today's market. A hotel market or feasibility study can be a key tool in bridging the gap between these communities and developers, but the usefulness of such a study is highly dependent on the consultant's ability to understand the perspectives and motivations of both public and private interests. Balancing Local Lodging Needs with Hotel Development ROI In my numerous conversations with municipal stakeholders, I've found they often speak of a 'need' for hotel rooms, asking me to evaluate and quantify that need. This perception of 'need' is typically based on anecdotal observations of a lack of quality hotel rooms during periods of peak demand, such as special events or summer weekends. However, community residents and stakeholders do not often consider lodging demand during off-peak travel periods, such as a Tuesday night in January. On the other hand, one of the fundamental concerns of a private developer is the depth and diversity of hotel demand in a given market and its potential to support a profitable operation throughout the year. As a result, the concept of 'need' can be somewhat of a distraction, as it does not necessarily correlate to the viability of hotel development. Orienting the discussion and evaluation of a potential hotel development around its possible benefits, both to the local community and a potential developer, is the first step in bridging the gap between public and private stakeholders. The potential benefit to a private developer is the expected return on investment (ROI), a relatively straightforward metric to evaluate. As profit-oriented private business enterprises, hotel development firms actively seek out projects that will produce an adequate return for the work and risk required to undertake the development. In other words, a developer needs to know if the expected profitability of the hotel operation will justify the cost of construction, including the cost of debt and equity capital. From a municipal perspective, the benefits of a hotel may be less direct and tangible. Hotels generate a variety of direct taxes for a community, including property, sales, and occupancy taxes. They also accommodate visitors to the area who spend money at other local businesses. Additionally, hotels can serve as an amenity to residents and area businesses, allowing them to conveniently host visitors near their homes or offices. The Role of Incentives Numerous hotel development groups throughout the country are actively searching for their next projects. There is a high likelihood that these private developers are already involved in most communities with strong enough lodging demand to produce adequate returns on new hotel development. There are also many other communities that could support profitable hotel operations but not a strong enough ROI level to entice private development. In these locations, many municipalities attract hotel development by offering development incentives to offset project costs and/or improve operational profitability. The same factors come into play in markets where private development is targeting a different hotel class or product type than what would most benefit the community. These incentives frequently include the following: — Source: HVS The potential impact of incentives can be evaluated by comparing the stabilized profitability and cost of a proposed project under both a private development scenario and an incentivized scenario. This is illustrated in the following table, which shows two proformas for a hypothetical select-service hotel development under these different scenarios. — Source: HVS Without incentives, the project would produce a capitalization rate below 7.0%, which would not meet investor return expectations in most markets. However, an abatement of property taxes on the improvements and a partial rebate of sales and/or transient occupancy taxes would increase the cap rate above 8.0%, resulting in an attractive investment. Let Market Intelligence Guide Your Community's Next Hotel Project From a municipal standpoint, adding new hotel rooms to an area may attract and accommodate additional visitors during peak periods, but they may also cannibalize demand from other hotels in the same market during off-peak periods, negatively impacting tax revenue from those properties. In order to accurately assess potential benefits of a hotel development for a community, it is important to focus on net new demand to the market as the driver for tax growth, not just the anticipated performance of the newly constructed property. Additionally, the quality and scope of hotel facilities should be evaluated in relation to the needs and desires of community stakeholders to ensure the incentivized project is truly providing community benefits. In order to properly examine these potential benefits to a community, as well as the return on investment for a private developer, a hotel market and feasibility study should thoroughly evaluate the nature of hotel supply and demand in the local market, in addition to the performance, profitability, and return on investment for an individual proposed hotel project. When the perspectives and motivations of both public entities and private developers are addressed, such a study can serve as a key tool in bridging the gap between private and public stakeholders to support mutually beneficial hotel developments. At HVS, we turn data into powerful insights that drive your success. Our unique methodology involves conducting primary interviews within local markets, capturing real-time insights and data. This ensures a deep understanding of each market we operate in to give you a distinct competitive edge. When you partner with HVS, you gain access to the most current data, unlocking the nuances of local dynamics and empowering you to make confident, strategic decisions. For more information about a new hotel development in your market, or for assistance in making investment decisions that align with your specific goals and risk tolerance, we invite you to reach out to Dan McCoy, MAI.
Wall Street Journal
23-05-2025
- Wall Street Journal
Summer Books: The Best Reading for the Season
Fortune-seekers and former soldiers arrived in the small towns of the Old West, carrying pistols and a taste for violence. Review by Richard Snow Read the review
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Travel + Leisure
18-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
20 Most Beautiful Small Towns to Visit Around the World
Despite their tiny size, small towns can be packed with personality, history, and, of course, beauty. Some, like Banff or Grindelwald, are flanked by soaring mountains, giving them an extra dose of wonder. Other small towns draw attention for their architecture—the whitewashed walls of St. George's in Bermuda, for example, are exceptionally photogenic. There are also those towns, like Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, that overlook the ocean, adding an additional layer of allure to the scenery. To find the most beautiful small towns around the world, we spoke to travel experts who have traveled far and wide in search of the best destinations. Read on to see their picks and get all the inspiration you need for your next small-town trip. Quaint village of Bibury in the Cotswolds. joe'Bibury is a quintessentially English village tucked away in Gloucestershire in the heart of the Cotswolds, an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,' says Nicola Butler, managing director and owner of NoteWorthy and Travel + Leisure A-list Travel Advisor. 'Bibury embodies everything people dream of when they imagine the quaint English countryside. Wander through its tranquil lanes to find honey-colored stone cottages surrounded by gently rolling hills with the serene River Coln winding its way through the center.' The two most famous photo-op spots are Arlington Row, a row of 17th-century weavers' cottages, and The Swan, a coaching inn-turned-boutique hotel. Cape Leveque in Broome, is truly 'the edge of the world,' says Cassandra Bookholder, a T+L A-list Travel Advisor and luxury travel expert at Camelback Odyssey Travel, sharing that its 'combination of roughness and luxury' makes it a destination to have on your travel radar. 'The landscape around Broome makes you feel like you're on the moon, or a movie setting with the most amazing sunsets where camels and 4WDs roam the beach.' The town is all about the outdoors and grand adventures—from visiting pearl farms to fishing in Roebuck Bay. A charming alley in Fornalutx, Mallorca in Spain. EndikaOften referred to as the 'prettiest village in Spain,' Fornalutx is located on Mallorca, one of Spain's Balearic Islands, and its history can be traced back over 1,000 years. 'Fornalutx is a small village in the Tramuntana Mountains that is otherworldly in its charm. Meandering cobblestone paths lead one between breathtaking limestone structures that ooze appeal,' says Julia B. Pirrung, founder of Jetset World Travel and member of T+L's Travel Advisory Board. 'The location sits on the doorstep of ancient pilgrimage routes, so it's ideal for exploring the region by foot.' A foggy day in Shirakawa-go, you've always wanted to visit a traditional Japanese village, consider adding Shirakawa-go to your shortlist. 'This mountain village hidden in Japan's Northern Alps feels completely untouched by time. It's made up of centuries-old traditional farmhouses with steep thatched roofs and surrounded by forested hills and rice fields that add to its peaceful atmosphere. It's especially charming in the winter when covered in snow,' says Katie Shea, a luxury travel advisor at Major Traveler. Rolling vineyards in Los Olivos, Olivos, named America's Best Small Food and Culture Town in 2023, is heavy on the wine—and the beauty. Within the California town (technically an unincorporated community), you'll find more than 25 wineries, and it's surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. 'It's no wonder Auberge jumped at the opportunity to manage the legendary Inn at Mattei's Tavern, long a hitching post and watering hole for those traveling by horseback up the 101,' says Pirrung. 'Now an emerging food and wine destination within California's Central Coast, Los Olivos is both alluring and inviting as a day visit from nearby Santa Barbara or Montecito, as well as for a long weekend to explore the surrounding region.' Voelklip beach in Hermanus, South Africa. 'Hermanus is a small coastal town along South Africa's Western Cape known for its dramatic seaside cliffs and some of the best land-based whale watching in the world,' says Shea. 'It's full of personality, the kind of place where you can spend the morning exploring a coastal trail and the afternoon sipping local wine while enjoying the endless ocean views.' If that doesn't convince you of its beauty, then browse through photos of Fernkloof Nature Reserve, where you can find coastline, mountains, forests, and more. An old castle in Doolin, Ireland. Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure 'Doolin is a charming village on Ireland's famed Wild Atlantic Way, serving as the gateway to the stunning Cliffs of Moher and picturesque Aran Islands,' shares Butler. 'It consists of colorful chocolate box houses, friendly pubs, and dramatic sea views, with an aura of stepping back in time,' says Butler. It's also the music capital of Ireland, so you'll find a number of local pubs hosting live music performances each night. The Swiss village of is rich in picturesque villages, but Grindelwald is among the very best. One of the many mountain towns in the Jungfrau region, Grindelwald sits at the foot of the Eiger mountain's north face and welcomes visitors with its classic chalet-style buildings and plethora of outdoor activities. Skiing is a popular activity in the winter, although it's tough to beat summer and fall, when hikers are rewarded with some of the most gorgeous mountain views you could ever imagine. Historic center of Bayeux, France. 'Bayeux, renowned for the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry, was the first French town to be liberated in World War II after the D-Day landings,' says Butler, noting how it 'escaped major damage, which preserved its cobbled streets and medieval architecture such as the stunning Bayeux Cathedral.' The tapestry and the cathedral are two of the most sought-after sites in the town, but visitors can also explore the Baron Gérard Museum, the Bayeux War Cemetery and Memorial, and the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy. Boats docked in the Seward, Alaska harbor. Shea also has Seward, an Alaskan port city with a population under 3,000, on her list. 'It's surrounded by incredibly dramatic scenery of glaciers, fjords, and deep turquoise waters. The town itself is small and unassuming, with an easy and local feel, but it's a true launch point for adventure,' she explains. Located on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, Seward is also the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, and the downtown is filled with murals and various art galleries. Tobermory lighthouse on the Isle of Mull in Scotland. imageBROKER/'Tobermory on the Isle of Mull is known for its colorful waterfront buildings, charming atmosphere, and dramatic natural scenery. The harbor has retained much of its historic charm with its vibrant center, and it's known for local crafts and seafood,' says Butler. If you're interested in 'Hebridean culture, local whiskey, and island wildlife,' she adds, it also makes for the perfect jumping-off point to the rest of the Hebrides. Wide view of the French village of Gordes.'Set high in the Luberon Hills of Provence, Gordes is the kind of place that feels like stepping into a postcard,' says Shea. 'The village is filled with narrow cobblestone alleyways, golden honey-colored stone buildings, and incredible views over vineyards and lavender fields.' Plus, she adds, you'll find the town has a 'timeless charm' and a 'deep sense of place that reminds you to enjoy the art of slow travel." An old church in St. George's, Bermuda. The town of St. George's dates back centuries—in fact, it's said to be the oldest continuously occupied British settlement in the Americas. To this day, you'll come across all kinds of forts and historic sites in and around the town; the area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in Bermuda, save at least an afternoon to walk through the town and its narrow lanes and alleyways, spotting its quaint cottages and whitewashed buildings. Man walking on Tapeka Point Track in Russell, Bay of Islands in New Zealand. Bookholder describes Russell as a town 'dotted with cafes, art galleries, and beachside restaurants' that you can reach via boat or windy roads. Expect to spend a lot of time on the water—either on a boat cruise to the 'Hole in the Rock,' aboard a historic tall ship, or on a ferry over to Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island. 'It's a pretty slice of New Zealand life,' she says. Cityscape with dramatic bridge in Ronda, Spain. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure 'It's easy to appreciate Hemingway's affinity for Ronda,' says Pirrung. 'It certainly captured my heart while exploring Andalucia due to the unparalleled vistas at every turn and the prominent Roman ruins that remind visitors of its rich history.' The Ciudad Soñada , or the 'City of Dreams,' is split into El Mercadillo (also known as the New Town) and La Ciudad (also known as the Old Town) by the Puente Nuevo. The bridge crosses a 400-foot gorge, and you can see it best from various paths along the Tajo ravine. Main street in Banff, Canada. There are a lot of beautiful reasons to visit the resort town of Banff, starting with the fact that it's located in Canada's Banff National Park. Mountains can be seen in every direction, and the downtown area, specifically Banff Avenue, is lined with art galleries, museums, high-end restaurants, bars, and boutiques. No matter the season, the towering Cascade Mountain makes for a majestic backdrop. A small street in the white village of Ostuni.'La Citta Bianca ("White Town'), named so for its whitewashed buildings, is one of the more charming and visually arresting villages in Puglia,' says Pirrung. 'There is no better way to experience this fortified hilltop village than meandering the cobblestone pedestrian streets as the sun sets.' The streets themselves are akin to a maze; there are alleyways, arches, and staircases, all accented by bright green and blue wooden doors. White and blue buildings in Ericeira, Portugal. Serhii_Yushkov/Getty Images 'This cliffside fishing village just outside of Lisbon has a classic Portuguese charm with a laid-back surfer vibe,' says Shea. 'Think whitewashed houses, tiled buildings, and golden beaches backed by a rugged and dramatic coastline. It's cool without trying too hard.' Just 45 minutes outside of Lisbon, Ericeira has a handful of beautiful beaches, including Praia da Foz do Lizandro, Praia Ribeira d'Ilhas, and Praia do Sul, the latter of which paints a gorgeous picture with its clear blue waters and striped beach tents. Colorful streets of Barichara, Santander, Colombia. victor alfonsoVivid colors, cobblestone streets, mountain views, Andalusian-style houses, and green countryside: These are all signs you've arrived in Barichara, one of Colombia's Heritage Towns. The preserved 18th-century town is best experienced on foot or on a tour with a local tuk-tuk driver. Just don't skip the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception—but don't worry, you can't miss it. The church was built in 1838, and it seemingly changes color as the sun moves; it appears bright yellow in the morning and a clay color in the afternoon. Two horses on a cobblestone street of Hydra, Greece. janetteasche/Getty Images 'Hydra is chic, laid-back, and slightly bohemian,' says Shea. One of the best Greek islands to visit, Hydra has one town: Hydra Town. 'The harbor is lined with elegant stone mansions, winding alleys, and bougainvillea-draped cafes, while the hills above are dotted with old artists' homes. With no cars in sight, just donkeys and boats, it has a quiet charm that feels effortlessly stylish,' says Shea.
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Travel + Leisure
11-05-2025
- Travel + Leisure
10 of the Best Small Towns in the U.S. for a Summer Getaway, According to Travel Experts
With summer on the horizon, it's high time to start plotting out your travel plans. While some travelers may be thinking about a grand European vacation, there are also plenty of options stateside—from national parks and beaches to buzzy cities and small towns. If the latter piques your interest, we're here to help narrow down your options. Maybe you're thinking of heading out West, to a small mountain town like Telluride or Jackson. Or perhaps you want a beach experience; if that's the case, St. Simons Island or Kennebunkport might resonate with you. No matter your preference, there's a small town that's perfect for your next summer trip. Read on for the best small towns to visit for a summer vacation—a list filled with picks from Travel + Leisure A-list travel advisors (plus a couple of my own personal favorites). Fog rolls over Jackson, Wyoming in the morning. 'What I love about Jackson Hole, and what I think makes it so distinctive, is its unique juxtaposition. You can spend all day outdoors—fly fishing, searching for elk, moose, or bears, or taking a scenic float down the Snake River,' says Mary Cropper, a T+L A-list advisor and travel expert at Black Tomato. 'Then, when it's time for dinner, you can dress up and hit the town [of Jackson] for a pre-dinner aperitif to watch the sunset, followed by fine dining. And if you really want to get into the spirit of things, make your way to the Jackson Hole Rodeo, which is about as authentic as it gets.' Summer is also a wonderful (if crowded) time to explore nearby Grand Teton National Park; Yellowstone National Park is also doable as a day trip with Jackson as your base camp. For a memorable stay in the heart of Jackson, book one of the rooms at The Wort Hotel or The Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa. A hiker just outside of Crested Butte, Colorado.'Crested Butte truly feels like the last best-kept secret in Colorado, untouched and unhurried in ways many mountain towns just can't replicate,' says A-list travel advisor Kristin Diehl, who recommends staying at Scarp Ridge Lodge, one of the Eleven Experience Lodges. 'It's a restored 19th-century miners' saloon where they've thought of all the details. Their idea of a 'concierge' service means crafting your perfect day of guided hikes, mountain biking, fly fishing, or whitewater rafting, followed by wellness treatments and private-chef-prepared meals that feel well-earned following very active days.' Plus, summer is also peak wildflower season in Crested Butte. Visitors are greeted by columbine, lupine, and mule's ear sunflowers—and the annual Crested Butte Wildflower Festival takes place in July. A couple walks by shops in downtown Kennebunkport, Maine. Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure Both Diehl and Cropper have the Kennebunks in Maine on their list—and it's not hard to see why. 'There's nothing quite like a New England summer, an experience everyone should try at least once in their lives,' says Cropper, who recommends visiting Kennebunkport. 'Located between Ogunquit and Portland, this charming seaside town is a perfect place to post up for a New England summer. With the beach just a short walk away and a downtown area perfect for dinner and drinks, it's a lovely spot to unwind and enjoy the coastal vibes,' says Cropper. 'Not to mention, the area serves up some of the best lobster rolls I've ever had, putting it on the map as a foodie destination.' And if you want to elevate the experience, venture to nearby Kennebunk. 'Check into the White Barn Inn for a quaint coastal escape, perfectly charming and steeped in history. Spend your days indulging in spa rituals, learning the art of Maine cuisine in a chef-led cooking class, or cruising along the coast on a golden-hour sail,' adds Diehl. Main Street of Easton, Maryland. VisionsofAmerica/'While everyone knows of St. Michaels when thinking of the Eastern Shore of Maryland—and I still recommend staying at the Inn at Perry Cabin—neighboring Easton, Maryland, is an unassuming, under-the-radar culinary hotbed,' says Diehl. 'Fueled by visionaries like Paul Prager and his Bluepoint Hospitality Group, the town is home to haute spots like Bas Rouge, helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Harley Peet, and The Stewart, a sultry Scotch bar redefining small-town sophistication.' Before tucking into an unforgettable meal, head to the Pickering Creek Audubon Center to hike, bike, or canoe around the marsh, or spend a couple of hours exploring the historic downtown area. A church in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Bonnie Taylor Barry/Adobe Stock 'While the Deep South may not top your summer travel list, St. Francisville, Louisiana, is a hidden gem of storybook charm and soulful Creole history beneath canopies of Spanish moss,' says Diehl. Before the sun gets too powerful, go horseback riding at the Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area or tackle the 5.6-mile bike path and trail at West Feliciana Sports Park. Then get a break from the summer heat by popping in and out of the town's antique shops and boutiques; she recommends Deyo Supply and Sage Hill. 'A stay at the St. Francisville Inn is the cherry on top of this getaway teeming with Southern hospitality; the restaurant alone draws diners from all over southeast Louisiana for reservations,' she adds. Downtown Telluride, Colorado. Kristina Blokhin/Adobe Stock Cropper calls Telluride an 'ideal playground for outdoor adventure,' where 'summer temperatures stay comfortably cool' and there are endless opportunities to bike, hike, swim, paddleboard, and soak up all of the fresh air. 'If you're planning ahead, consider timing your visit around the Telluride Bluegrass Festival or the Telluride Film Festival—two standout events that showcase the town's vibrant cultural scene and bring its creative spirit to life,' she says. A pier jutting out into the water on St. Simon Island. Stephanie Vermillion/Travel + Leisure If you want a classic summer beach vacation—the kind where you can spend every day swimming, reading, riding bikes, and taking everything at a slow pace—add St. Simons Island to your shortlist. One of Georgia's barrier islands and a longtime favorite of mine, St. Simons is just about as family-friendly as it gets. For a resort experience, book a stay at either The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort or The Inn by Sea Island, which has an outdoor pool and complimentary bicycles for guests. Hungry after a long day at the beach? You've got lots of options, but it's almost criminal to skip the hot chicken at Porch or the brisket at Southern Soul Barbecue. A street corner with a moose statue in Ketchum, Idaho. Susan Vineyard/Adobe Stock 'I'll take any excuse to visit Ketchum, Idaho; it's the best home base for exploring all of Sun Valley's great outdoors,' says Diehl. 'Stay at the Limelight or the iconic Sun Valley Resort, then spend your days fly fishing, rafting, biking, or horseback riding before ending the night under a canopy of stars.' If you're in the area for more than a couple of days, definitely try to see more towns in the area. 'I also always love a day trip to Stanley, Idaho. It's out of a postcard; the tiny downtown is set against the dramatic Sawtooths and wide-open sky,' she adds. Houses around Spring Lake in New Jersey. DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images The small towns along the Jersey Shore are the type of destinations that ooze summertime nostalgia. Think wooden boardwalks, ice cream shops, amusement parks, and miles of gorgeous shoreline. There's one town in particular that stands out, though. Spring Lake is picturesque in every way—from its grand beachfront homes to its walkable downtown with one-of-a-kind eateries and shops (I always recommend sandwiches from Tom Bailey's and sweet treats from The Scone Pony). Just know that you will need a badge to access the beach; if you stay somewhere like The Ocean House Bed & Breakfast or the Johnson House Inn, they'll be able to help you out. Tourists enjoying the Arkansas River in the Tourist Town of Salida, Colorado.'If you're looking for a spot similar to Telluride but with a more off-the-beaten-path feel, check out Salida, Colorado,' says Cropper, describing the town as a 'hidden gem' and a 'little piece of heaven that hasn't been overrun by tourists.' Located on the Arkansas River, the town embraces both the outdoors and a creative nature. 'Salida is brimming with art galleries, live music, and festivals, with artists filling the streets. What really sets Salida apart is the town's easy-going, no-frills atmosphere. It's all about good vibes, fun times, and a relaxed pace,' she explains. As far as accommodations, Cropper recommends grabbing a tent or renting a camper—alternatively, you can stay at Salida's Amigo Motor Lodge or The Inn in nearby Buena Vista.
