These Small Lake Towns Across America Are Seriously Charming

Art lovers will find plenty to appreciate in this small lake town settled between the Sawtooth Mountains and Lake Superior. Sign up for artisan-led classes at the North House Folk School, watch painters take inspiration from the landscape at Artist's Point, or head outdoors on one of the many hiking and biking trails nearby. Enjoy a cold brew and some whitefish tacos at The Dunes Saloon Lake Superior Brewing Co., and find lakeside lodging at the Best Western Plus Superior Inn or the East Bay Suites.

For more information, visit visitcookcounty.com.

After an especially rainy season, you might get a glimpse of the Lake Berryessa Glory Hole — a funnel built into the man-made lake's dam that opens up when water levels get too high. Set up camp at Pleasure Cove; you can also rent boats, jet skis, and kayaks at the marina. Head to nearby St. Helena to indulge in a wine tasting at Frog's Leap Winery, and stop by Gott's Roadside to refuel with a burger.

For more information, visit goberryessa.com and visitnapavalley.com.

Saugatuck has 12 miles of award-winning beaches, a thriving arts community, plenty of hiking trails, unique shops, and more. Start your day with coffee and lavender honey toast at Respite Cappuccino Court before hopping on your private bus tour to the area's can't-miss wineries and breweries. Cruise around the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan at sunset with Sailing Saugatuck, and if you're wondering where to stay, reviewers love The Hotel Saugatuck for a luxe getaway.

For more information, visit saugatuck.com.

In Lake City's warmer months, you can expect plenty of hiking through wildflowers, fishing, and mountain biking. And if you visit in the winter, there's ice climbing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and more. Book a spot for your tent or RV at the Wupperman Campground to wake up on the shores of Lake San Cristobal. Prefer to stay in the center of town? The North Face Lodge is the place for you.

For more information, visit lakecity.com.

Situated on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, Wolfeboro bills itself as the "oldest summer resort in America." History buffs shouldn't miss Museum Loop, an antique boat ride that takes you to the nearby Libby Museum of Natural History — after which you'll hop on "Molley the Trolley" to check out the New Hampshire Boat Museum, Wright Museum of WWII, and the Clark House Museum Complex. Relax on one of the town's many beaches, or bike to explore the parks and trails before crashing at the Wolfeboro Inn.

For more information, visit Wolfeboronh.us.

Between boating, fishing, jet-skiing, kayaking, and waterskiing, there are aquatic adventures everywhere you look in Lake Havasu City, plus hiking, golf, rock climbing, and desert stargazing. Enjoy the yearly Havasu Balloon Festival, or take your own hot air balloon ride. There are tons of options for hotels, campsites, and resorts, but we'd recommend the London Bridge Resort for its central location, kitchenettes, and kid-friendly waterslide.

For more information, visit golakehavasu.com.

If you're looking for something more tranquil, consider Bigfork. This small waterfront village has plenty to offer, from mountain biking to golfing to paddle boarding. To enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the lake, pitch your tent or pull up an RV at Wayfarers Campground. For a true Montana experience, stay at self-described "genuine Montana dude ranch" Flathead Lake Lodge. Best of all, you'll be less than an hour from Glacier National Park.

For more information, visit bigfork.org.

This private community is about an hour drive from Cleveland. During summer, you'll need to pay for an admission and parking pass to access the area—but once you're there, enjoy adorable shops, sailing, fishing, pickleball, and live entertainment. Explore the Marblehead Lighthouse and surrounding area during the season, too, and make sure to stop by Cleats for a plate of wings before you leave!

For more information, visit lakesideohio.com.

This Bavaria-inspired village is the perfect jumping-off point for a day hike to the breathtakingly-blue Colchuck Lake (be warned — it's a fairly strenuous hike, but absolutely worth it!). Wake up in the Posthotel Leavenworth and take in the view of the Wenatchee River before grabbing a hearty breakfast at Louie's Cafe. Reward yourself post-hike with a giant pretzel and a beer at Rhein Haus, where you can sit overlooking the town's main street.

For more information, visit leavenworth.org.

The small Texas town is known for its swimming holes, including those at Blue Hole Regional Park, Jacob's Well, and Cypress Falls. If you can't get enough splashing around, head to nearby Canyon Lake to rent a boat for the day — but save energy to explore Texas' best honky-tonks and dance halls at night. You're sure to rest easy after all that, particularly if you're staying at the Creekhaven Inn and Spa.

For more information, visit visitwimberley.com.

Nestled on the south shore of Payette Lake, McCall is home to less than 3,000 people. Enjoy mountain biking trails, hiking, zip lining, kayaking in summer, and snow tubing, skiing, snowshoeing in winter visits. Thankfully, no matter what time of year you visit, you'll be able to explore the town's theater, museums, and live music. Kick back at the Shore Lodge, where you'll also get to enjoy spa treatments and private hot springs.

For more information, visit visitmccall.org.

The Apostle Island Sea Caves are truly awe-inspiring, and Apostle Islands Cruises take passengers from Bayfield to a variety of adventures around the locale. Dine at The Copper Trout, a family-run restaurant, before heading back to your room at the Old Rittenhouse Inn, a Victorian bed and breakfast close to everything the town has to offer.

For more information, visit bayfield.org.

This small scenic town has much to offer, from lakeside activities to towering cliffs like Chimney Rock, pictured here. Get a round of golf in at one of the many courses in the area, or take on one of the local trails on foot or bike. For a romantic stroll or a kid-friendly activity, check out the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, a gorgeous community garden with year-round offerings.

For more information, visit visitncsmalltowns.org.

Bear Lake, located on the northern Utah border, has been called "the Caribbean of the Rockies" for its turquoise blue water. For several days of boating, hiking, and relaxing in the sun around Bear Lake, you'll want to base yourself in Garden City. Wake up in your glamping tent or wagon at Conestoga Ranch, and prepare for a day of adventure with a meal at the Bear Trapper.

For more information, visit visitutah.com.

Just 25 miles west of Orlando, Clermont is the perfect place to extend a Disney World trip. You can rent paddle boards to move around Lake Minneola, find your next great read at Sunshine Book Co., or cool off with a beer at Clermont Brewing Company. If you're there on a Sunday, the farmer's market is a can't-miss attraction.

For more information, visit clermontdowntown.com.

The number one reason we're heading straight to Lake Pend Oreille? Besides the spectacular views of Montana's Cabinet Mountains and the Selkirk Mountain Range, the huckleberry lemonade is a major draw. Beloved local festivals include the Festival at Sandpoint and the Long Bridge Swim, where hundreds of swimmers compete annually. If you're trying to figure out where to stay, the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch won't disappoint.

For more information, visit visitsandpoint.com.

First, crank up the sweat on mountain biking trails of all levels. Then, get drenched on the new Tarzan Boat, a one-of-a-kind party craft with a Tarzan swing, 12-foot high trampoline, and14-foot high "Gorilla Jump" dive. The Noon Lodge's rustic cabins will conjure summer camp memories (test your luck at bocce ball and corn hole on site). Head to Tropicali for funky California-Hawaiian fare, or beloved staple The Old German Deli.

For more information, visit bigbear.com.

Days have a way of feeling long—in a good way —in this town on serene Lake Travis. The Lakeway Resort and Spa is a slice of Hill Country paradise, with three freshwater swimming pools (if you need a break from Lake Travis' many water sports or sailing charters). Hungry? Vincent's on the Lake is the spot for lakefront dining, drinks and live music. Or, pack a picnic and hit up one of Lake Travis' lush parks.

For more information, visit laketravis.com.

Laconia's inviting Lake Opechee Inn and Spa shifts the emphasis from "doing" to "being," whether that means petting the property's gorgeous dogs, indulging in a pedicure, or enjoying views of the tranquil lake from the heated indoor pool. If adventure calls, try a chair lift ride at Gunstock Mountain or hop aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad. Make a pit stop at Kellerhaus, a legendary chocolatier that's been around since 1906 (there's a weekend waffle breakfast too!).

If you're visiting this idyllic lake in North Carolina's Eastern region, stay at The Madison House in nearby Whiteville, North Carolina. You're going to want to kayak in the largest freshwater lake in the state, and scope out Lake Waccamaw State Park (park rangers regularly hold educational programs for visitors). Slurp some swoon-worthy oysters at Dale's Seafood on the shores of this glimmering natural wonder.

Named for an Iroquois word meaning "place of the pouring out," this town is overflowing with gorgeous architecture, cute eateries (Rudy' Lakeside Drive-In will have you craving its Texas hots and fried scallops long after you leave town), and dreamy summer sunsets at Historic Fort Ontario. Try a kayaking tour with Oswego Expeditions, or check out the annual Oswego County Hospice Cup Regatta in June. For July visitors, don't miss Harborfest, with free music, fireworks, and more.

For more information, visit oswegony.org.

What's better than one lake? Three: 53,000-acre Table Rock Lake, spring-fed Lake Leatherwood (hiking and mountain bikers, this one's for you!), and fishing gem Beaver Lake. Check into The 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa, a historic mountaintop property (it may or may not be haunted!) or the Beaver Lakefront Cabins if you're craving a retreat on the water. Don't miss the Thorncrown Chapel, a celebrated wooden structure containing 6,000 square feet of glass.

For more information, visit eurekasprings.org.

Mountain bikers can tackle the town on two wheels via the Alpine Trail or Dead Mountain Trail, with a soak in the McCredie Hot Springs as your sweet reward afterward. Or, head straight to Waldo Lake (located about half an hour from Oakridge) for some laid-back kayaking or paddle boarding. Set up shop at Salmon Creek Campground and wake up to the sound of waterfalls and the smell of the area's fresh hazelnuts.

For more information, visit eugenecascadescoast.org.

Breaux Bridge sits on the shores of Lake Martin, which has the largest nesting area of wading birds in the United States. Many residents here are of Cajun descent (and still speak Cajun French), and their enthusiasm for living in the "Crawfish Capital of the World" is contagious. Spend a day antiquing at Langiappe Antiques Market, a 17,000 square-foot hub for art and other treasures, and bring your loot back to the spacious Bayou Cabins to enjoy your private porch. At Buck & Johnny's, treat yourself to Cajun-Italian fusion, and if you can, hit up their famous Zydeco breakfasts on the weekend.

For more information, visit lafayettetravel.com.

While the other famed Finger Lakes are slender and straight, the Y-shaped Keuka is a crooked prize. Start your day with standup paddle board yoga before an excursion to Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars or Keuka Brewing Company, or geek out on motorcycles and planes a the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum. Retreat to The Black Sheep Inn and Spa, but try not to sleep in too late: Crooked Lake Ice Cream Company opens at 7:00 a.m.

For more information, visit fingerlakestravelny.com.

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa makes a welcome destination for a BFF getaway (check out the award-winning WELL Spa + Salon). Or, rally the fam for camping at Big Foot Beach State Park. Wander around the lake checking out boutiques, break a sweat paddle boarding or parasailing, and visit its four beautiful public beaches. Sweet tooth? Check out Egg Harbor Cafe and grab a cinnamon roll.

For more information, visit visitlakegeneva.com.

Unpack at Wapato Point Resort (the Wapato Family has owned the lakeside property for over 100 years) before deciding on your itinerary, which could include hiking, whitewater rafting with River Recreation, a trip to the Tandem Winery Skydive, or power boating back at the resort. Head to Even Keel Roadhouse, where locals congregate on the outdoor lawn, to sip craft beer and enjoy live music with your pizza.

For more information, visit lakechelan.com.

Seafarers will love this beautiful town that serves as gateway to the Lake of the Ozarks. We're partial to planting ourselves at Coconuts Caribbean Beach Bar & Grill (they even have a pet menu) after touring Jacob's Cave, a fascinating underground attraction. In this town of only 2,500, you'll find over 100 Mennonite businesses, ranging from herb stores to bakeries, as well as the bustling Royal Theatre.

For more information, visit visitversailles.org.

Lakeside is the best side in this charming town perched on Lake Georgetown. Explore the area's 16 miles of hiking trails, or enjoy free concerts every Friday from June through August in the picturesque town square. You'll want to venture to the Inner Space Caverns (pictured here) and the Blue Hole swimming lagoon. For snacks, El Monumento offers stellar street corn, tacos, and queso panela frito that you won't want to share, and for lodging, Scurlock Farms is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle.

For more information, visit visit.georgetown.org.

Main Street charm is in full swing in this town surrounded by breathtaking peaks, near the sandy shores of the Dillon Reservoir. Our one piece of advice is to wake up early at least once: The Frisco Rowing Club offers lessons and rentals, and you'll never forget cruising its glassy surface at 6 a.m. with bald eagles and osprey overhead. Camp at Heaton Bay Campground if you crave fresh air 24/7, or opt for the down-home Frisco Lodge. Before you depart, have a meal at Vinny's, where you'll be wishing you could eat their organic eggplant tower back home every night of the week.

For more information, visit townoffrisco.com.

We'll never tire of the views on the 45-minute drive from Niagara Falls, and same goes for the jumbo serving of Bye's Popcorn from the family-owned roadside stand. Kids will love Olcott Beach Carousel Park, featuring a 1928 Hershell-Spillman two-row carousel, and adults can venture to the allegedly-haunted Winery at Marjim Manor. As the moon rises, head to The Old Olcott Beach Fire Station Guestrooms & Suites, within walking distance of Krull Park, and Olcott Beach. Another favorite? Golden Hill State Park and the Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse, where you can sleep in the lighthouse's guest suite.

For more information, visit niagarafallsusa.com.

Gather picnic necessities at Bellaire Smokehouse and feast on the dazzling shores of Torch Lake, which twinkles with a deep turquoise hue. As Michigan's longest inland lake, you can expect superb kayaking, fishing, swimming, and photo ops along its glimmering 19 miles. Tuck yourself in at The Inn at Torch Lake in nearby Alden, and fill up on mooncakes with wild cherry sauce or biscuits and gravy at Torch Lake Cafe.

For more information, visit bellairechamber.com.

The titular waters of Lake Greenwood State Park, located right outside the towns of Ninety Six (yes, real name) and Greenwood, offer 11,400-acres of floating fun. Rest up at the Inn on the Square between grub sessions at Good Times Brewing at The Mill House and the Cheeseburger House. Got a hankering for a good old fashioned festival? Consider the SC Festival of Stars, which takes place in June.

For more information, visit visitgreenwoodsc.com.

This body of water has an impressive history of battles, which you can learn all about at The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum. As the sun sets, relax at Basin Harbor Resort & Boat Club. (Note: cottages and guest rooms are certainly options, but you can also stay aboard your boat in an overnight slip!) When you get hungry, head to Vergennes Laundry and save room for indulgences like gingersnaps and pâtes de fruits.

For more information, visit vergennesdowntown.org.

In Greenville, Moosehead Lake offers plenty of open-water fishing, boating, and Katahdin cruise tours. Don't let your hunger take you away from crystal-clear lake views—head to Kelly's Landing for a lobster roll. Kelly's also provides lakefront lodging, but there's also the gorgeous Blair Hill Inn.

For more information, visit mooseheadlakeedc.com.

Devils Lake offers serious fishing (10-pound pike and epic walleye), Main Street USA-style strolls, and family-friendly dining. Rent a pontoon or test your luck on water skis before journeying to Grahams Island State Park. Wash away your stress at Proz End of the Line Sports Bar & Grille (head to the lively outdoor tiki bar), or enjoy a sit-down dinner at the Ranch Steakhouse, housed in a restored barn. For a unique lakeside experience that's close to the Lake Region Pioneer Daughters Museum, try the Totten Trail Historic Inn.

For more information, visit ndtourism.com.

Nestled in a beautiful and isolated mountain valley 8,000 feet above sea level, Vallecito Lake is the ancestral home to much of Colorado's indigenous Ute population. Spend a day exploring the quiet beauty of the San Juan National Forest, and book your stay at the inviting Elk Point Lodge. Be sure to grab a bite at The Weminuche Woodfire Grill, with lake views that no camera could do justice.

For more information, visit colorado.com.

Pick your pool: Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, and Lake Taneycomo are all stellar options. Amp up your lakeside bliss by boating, fishing, jet skiing and even scuba diving. Visit the Titanic Museum or explore Fritz's Adventure with its ropes course, climbing walls, and zip lining. Keep riding the wave (literally) with a reservation at The Lodges at Timber Ridge, which has a 10,000-square-foot "Splash-a-Torium." For dinner, find us at Danna's BBQ and Burgers, where one order of onion rings is about five too few.

For more information, visit explorebranson.com.

The best of both worlds can be found here: sprawling mountains and three sparkling lakes. There's the 18-acre Lake Winfield Scott in Suches; Lake Nottely with an impressive 106 miles of shoreline, marinas, and public boat ramps; and the 20-acre lake and beach at Vogel State Park. On the 4th of July, there's an annual boat parade hosted by Nottely Marina. After a relaxing weekend of antiquing, kayaking, and waterfalls, it may be tough to peel yourself away from Your Home in the Woods Bed and Breakfast.

For more information, visit visitblairsvillega.com.

You'll love the spring-fed waters' white, sandy bottom, and the lack of currents or tides makes it great for families with small kids. While away the time jet skiing, wakeboarding, or swimming before laid-back evenings at The Elizabethtown Inn. Any day that includes Lu Mil Vineyard is sure to be memorable, and tack on a trip to Burney's Sweets & More—because wine always pairs well with chocolate strawberry cupcakes.

For more information, visit elizabethtownwhitelake.com.