Small towns are often romanticized in movies and literature, and for a good reason – they’re typically surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, exude an authenticity that’s difficult to find in bigger cities, and they are oh so charming. But despite their pervasive charm and ubiquitous presence across the East Coast, we used to overlook these towns when choosing a travel destination.
Like so many other Americans, we began prioritizing both outdoor adventure travel and local road trips significantly more over the last two years. Our weeknights are spent researching where to find the most epic hiking trails in the Mid-Atlantic, and we fill our weekends with camping, hiking, and exploring the small towns that are home to our area’s natural wonders and beautiful views.
As local getaways continue to trend among travelers, small towns will undoubtedly begin to gain popularity. So, to help you prioritize your bucket list, we’re highlighting three of the quaintest and most idyllic in the Mid-Atlantic region. You could spend weeks exploring these towns, but read on for how to spend one adventure-packed day in Luray, Virginia; Thurmont, Maryland; and Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania – three of our favorite towns in the region!
Luray, Virginia
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains between Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest is Luray, Virginia. This town is a haven for nature-lovers as it boasts spectacular views, historic caverns, and easy access to some of the region’s most popular hikes.
If you’re up for an early wake-up call, start your morning with a sunrise hike along one of Shenandoah National Park’s 500+ miles of trails. The views from the summit of Stony Man, one of the park’s most popular trails, are breathtaking.
Before exploring Luray Caverns, grab a quick lunch in town (we recommend West Main Market Beer and Wine Garden). This cave site is over four million centuries old, the
largest in the eastern United States, and home to the world’s largest musical instrument, the Great Stalacpipe Organ.
If time allows, pay a visit to the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum and the Shenandoah Heritage Village. Both are found in the three-acre museum complex adjacent to Luray Caverns and highlight Shenandoah’s historical homes, vehicles, and industries as they transport visitors back in time.
End your night with dinner and cocktails at The Speakeasy at Mimslyn Inn or with some local craft beers at Hawksbill Brewing Company.
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Situated on the southern edge of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains within the Lehigh Gorge lies Jim Thorpe, a town where old-world storybook charm meets the adventurous nature of modern mountain towns and creates an oasis for outdoorsy travelers.
Start your morning with a to-go coffee from Muggles’ Mug, which is (you guessed it) the town’s Harry Potter-themed café, and then bop around the unique shops on West
Broadway. This part of town has maintained its old-timey, somewhat Victorian charm of years past.
After caffeinating, visit Lehigh Gorge State Park, where you can walk, hike, or bike to the waterfalls that call the park home. If the weather is favorable, spend your afternoon
kayaking or rafting along the Lehigh River. Or explore the boulder field in the northeastern corner of Hickory Run State Park. Located just thirty minutes from downtown Jim Thorpe, this park is home to waterfalls, trout streams, and over 40 miles of hiking trails.
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When you return to town, take a train ride through the mountains on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway that runs parallel to the Lehigh River. Looking for a more active
experience? Ride the train 25 miles north to White Haven, Pa., and return to Downtown Jim Thorpe by bike on a trail that runs slightly downhill. If time allows, peruse the Old Jail Museum. It dates back to 1871 and holds some haunting history.
Then, make your way to Stone Row Pub and Eatery. We recommend making an after-dark reservation and dining on the upper deck beside the old stables in the woods. It makes for quite a romantic experience – complete with fairy lights!
Thurmont, Maryland
Known for its covered bridges, beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and being the site of the Presidential Retreat, Camp David, this Maryland town is not to be missed.
If you’re visiting on a Saturday between June and September, starting your day with a visit to Thurmont Main Street Farmers Market is a must. Here, local vendors sell produce, handmade goods, and prepared foods on the grounds of Thurmont Park.
After fueling up, explore Catoctin Mountain Park. This National Park site is home to Camp David and offers miles of beautiful hiking trails. If you’re up for a challenge, head to Chimney Rock/Wolf Rock Trail – a 3.4-mile loop that boasts breathtaking views of the local landscape. Alternatively, spend the afternoon chasing waterfalls at Cunningham Falls State Park. These falls are the tallest in the state and hold a special place in our
hearts because we got engaged at their base.
Then, treat yourself to post-hike ice cream at Gateway Market and Candyland. If you’re in the mood for an adult treat, grab some meat and cheese from The Farmhouse Exchange (connected to Gateway Market) and head to Catoctin Breeze Vineyard for wine and live music. This winery has been named Fredrick County’s best winery.
Before heading home, take a scenic drive through Loys Station and Roddy Road Covered Bridge. Both are impressive as they were built in the mid-1800s and are still in operation. After spending the last few years road-tripping the East Coast, we’ve found that we enjoy the small towns hidden within just as much as (if not more than) their natural landscapes. We particularly love Luray, Thurmont, and Jim Thorpe as they provide something for every visitor. With elevated dining options, quaint main streets, speakeasies, wineries, and ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, these towns hold some of the Mid-Atlantic’s best-kept secrets. They are destinations that deserve a spot on the bucket list of every avid day tripper, adventure traveler, and road trip enthusiast alike.
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