The small town is a great destination for everyone thanks to its charming main street, historic district and plenty of local eateries. But it is especially appealing to travelers over 60 who want a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere while staying in one place without spending a lot of time in the car. So those older travelers should set their GPS to the 10 best small towns in the US for travelers over 60.
Read this: 10 Small Towns in the United States That Feel Like Stepping Back in Time.
Murrells Inlet, just south of Myrtle Beach, is a small seaside fishing village that today offers more than just fishing. Opportunities for fishing both onshore and offshore are certainly plentiful, but visitors can also go kayaking, paddle boarding, or jet skiing. Looking to keep water sports to a minimum, he also recommends dolphin tours and sunset cruises for those over 60. And, not surprisingly, Murrells Inlet is home to many exceptional dining options featuring some of the best seafood in the area. A great way to end the day is to take a leisurely stroll on Marsh He Walk and watch the sunset.
In the 1960s Leavenworth was transformed into a Bavarian town to attract tourists. Despite being kitschy, it was a huge success. Today, in addition to its German feel, Leavenworth is perfectly walkable, offers plenty of shopping, has good restaurants and is not far from hiking, he says. Joanna Nesbitta freelance travel writer.
“There’s also a great outdoor ‘Sound of Music’ every summer, and lots of Christmas stuff in the winter,” she adds. Additionally, there are plenty of accommodations in town, from bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals to RV parks.
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Located along St. Joseph’s Bay on the Gulf of Mexico, Port St. Joe welcomes older travelers to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. He can spend the day strolling through the historic downtown, which is lined with local boutiques, day spas, and sidewalk bistros. You can also shop for unique gifts and souvenirs at the Saltair Farmers Market every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the week.
Of course, there are plenty of outdoor recreation options available, from hiking and biking to water sports and fishing. A fun way to explore the area is to follow the Turtle Trail with attractions such as the Gulf County Welcome Center, the Forgotten Coast Sea Turtle Center and the Florida Coastal Conservancy Sea Turtle Fountain.
Located in the Ozarks, Eureka Springs offers a mix of interests and attractions that older visitors will love.
‘My family really loves Eureka Springs,’ says travel writer Jen Billock“It’s small, with charming architecture and lots of antique shops and small boutiques.”
Due to its small size, you can stroll the streets of downtown Eureka Springs to check out the shops, boutiques and architecture. Or you can just sit back and relax as you tour the town aboard one of his Eureka Springs Tram Tours. If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the Crescent Hotel, built in 1886. This hotel has a restaurant, a spa, and a haunted house.
Morro Bay, named after Morro Rock, an ancient volcanic mound at the edge of Morro Rock Beach, is located on the California coast north of Los Angeles. Older travelers will love the uncrowded beaches where you can see whales at any time of the year. Birdwatching is another popular activity for him, thanks to the many species of seabirds and shorebirds that migrate through the area.
No wonder the town has been designated a National Audubon Society Important Bird Sanctuary. Morro Bay is also rich in history and culture, evidenced by attractions such as the Maritime Museum, Hearst’s Castle and Skateboard’s Museum.
On the east coast, St. Mary’s brings together history, culture, cuisine and outdoor recreation in a pedestrian-friendly city. You can start with a self-guided tour of St. Mary’s historic sites, such as Oak Grove Cemetery, and many of the town’s historic trees.
Simply enjoying the outdoors is also a popular option. St. Mary’s has spots on both the Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail and the Colonial Coast Birdwatching Trail. Another treat is the 11-mile St. Mary’s Tubby Trail, which connects St. Mary’s and Crooked River State Parks.
Older travelers can’t go wrong with Maine as a vacation destination.
Say “anywhere in Maine” Shannon Dalposal of Traveling Mamas. “Restaurant dinner time is 5pm and everything closes by 8pm, and the speed limit is 45 miles per hour or less on most roads.”
An important example is Bar Harbor. Here you can explore the town on numerous boat tours, historical tours and culinary tours. It’s also close to Acadia National Park for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. No wonder it was named the number one small town to visit in America by US News & World Report.
You may have heard of North Carolina’s Outer Banks, but have you heard of the Inner Banks? If not, you’re missing out on New Bern, a great destination for older travelers. It will be.
Say, “The town is very walkable and there are many B&Bs.” Christina Riley of NC tripping. “There’s also a great food scene and a beautiful riverfront.”
Highlights include watching the sun rise over the water at Union Point Park, spotting all 60 New Bern bear statues throughout town, and diving into the past at the North Carolina History Center.
Read this next: America’s most walkable cities for seniors.
Located in northern Colorado on the Yampa River, Steamboat Springs offers everything lovers of the great outdoors need. Not surprisingly, winter is popular for skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and sledding. Enjoy fishing, rafting and hiking in and out of town during the summer months. In addition, you can soak in the hot springs at Strawberry Park Onsen regardless of the season.
Additionally, the city operates a free bus system that takes visitors around town and to local destinations such as the Treads of Pioneers Museum. It’s easy to see why US News & World Report named it #9 on the “Best Small Towns to Visit in America” list.
Ranked #7 on US News & World Report’s list of “Best Small Towns to Visit in America,” St. Augustine has a lot to offer older travelers.
“There are trams that take people all over the city to sites, shops and eateries,” he says. Diane Dobrey of getting Hungary. “There are golf and beach resorts and sailing boat tours. There are more adventurous activities, but the atmosphere is relaxed and versatile. You can rent touring bikes to get around. is interesting.”
Plus, there are plenty of hotels downtown, so you can walk to many of the town’s attractions, restaurants, and more.
