From incredible scenery and big art scenes to history and unique cuisines, these 10 Western small towns – voted as the best by readers – have a lot to offer visitors. Here are the 10 best small towns in the West for 2023.
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No. 10: Moab, Utah
It’s the natural splendor of Moab that has nature lovers flocking here in droves. Home to Arches National Park, its red rock formations are a sight to behold. Attractions include the Moab Museum, the romantically-named Matrimony Springs, and Bull Canyon Overlook – a popular spot for budding paleontologists.
Photo courtesy of iStock / Sean Pavone
No. 9: Tombstone, Arizona
This Arizona town has long been steeped in history and was also popularized thanks to the '90s film by the same name. Re-enactments at the O.K. Corral, as well as at the Old Tombstone Western Theme Park, always bring in crowds. Other big points of interest include the Gunfighter Hall of Fame and the Rose Tree Museum.
No. 8: Sitka, Alaska
Russian and First Nations culture meet in Sitka, a remote town on Alaska’s Baranof Island. Worth the trek, you’ll find plenty of opportunity to fish, kayak, hike, whale watch and more. But the town isn’t all about roughing it – a local spa as well as top-notch dining are available for those who prefer a bit of luxury.
Photo courtesy of Visit Carmel
No. 7: Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
This absolutely stunning California town casts a spell on all who visit, thanks to its seemingly endless coastal beauty. When not taking in the sights of the Pacific, however, you can also enjoy works of art at any of the nearby galleries (like the Winfield), sip on reds or whites at the Blair Estate Tasting Room or one of the other local wineries, or check out some local history at the Carmel Mission Basilica Museum.
Photo courtesy of iStock / MattGush
No. 6: Truckee, California
While plenty know Lake Tahoe as a major ski destination, many folks seeking fresh powder flock to nearby Truckee, just a short trek northwest of there. Summertime is just as busy, thanks to golf courses, hiking and biking trails, plus boating, fishing and swimming opportunities at Donner Lake. Boasting top-notch dining, coffee shops, boutique stores and a cultural district with galleries and event spaces, there’s always something to do.
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No. 5: Ashland, Oregon
Located in southern Oregon, Ashland draws thespians and theater lovers from all over with their incomparable Oregon Shakespeare Festival, ongoing since 1935. But if that’s not your thing, North Mountain Park and other nearby green spaces offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy a peaceful time outdoors. “Visitors are also attracted by fine dining, markets, crafts fairs and shopping,” says 10Best expert Kyle McCarthy.
Photo courtesy of Visit Golden
No. 4: Golden, Colorado
On the foothills of the Rocky Mountains is Golden, which was once one of Colorado’s gold rush towns. Learn about that and more at the local Mines Museum of Earth Science, or check out the Colorado Railroad Museum, in operation since 1959. “Feels like a true mountain town and, yet, Denver is only 20 minutes away,” says 10Best expert Chez Chesak.
Photo courtesy of Chance Busey
No. 3: Gig Harbor, Washington
Located along the South Puget Sound, this charming little town offers plenty of activities for a relaxing time in the Pacific Northwest. Bed and breakfasts are aplenty, as are scenic walking areas like the Chalet in the Woods and Crescent Creek Park. A history museum, multiple breweries and distilleries, eateries (fine dining as well as more casual grab-and-go spots), plus boat tours and even gondola rides are all available to enjoy.
Photo courtesy of Pete Saloutos
No. 2: Bainbridge Island, Washington
A short ferry ride west of Seattle is Bainbridge Island – a harmonious respite from the nearby city life. Try a yoga class at Dayaalu Yoga and Wellness Center or spend some quiet time inside one of the local museums, like the Bainbridge Island Historical Museum, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art or KiDiMu (if you’ve got young ones along). The Bloedel Reserve is also a major attraction for visitors of all ages, where you can sprawl across 150 acres of meadows, forests and gardens.
Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone
No. 1: Cody, Wyoming
Named after Colonel William Frederick Cody (aka Buffalo Bill), this small northwestern Wyoming town is perfect for a Wild West-style getaway. Visitors can go on a wild mustang tour to learn about local wildlife, check out a recreation of an old frontier town or enjoy the outdoors at Buffalo Bill State Park. And for the history buffs, there are multiple museums in the area, including the Draper Natural History Museum, the Buffalo Bill Museum and the Plains Indian Museum.
