12 Charming Towns That Are Even Cozier When It Snows
Updated: Oct. 21, 2021Forget summer vacation—it's time for a winter holiday.
Stowe, Vermont
The “ski capitol of the East” might sit under Mount Mansfield, but the sleepy, snow-covered town looks more like a storybook village than a resort. When you’re done shredding down the 4,395-foot mountain, don’t miss the locally owned boutiques.
Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Home to Maine’s iconic Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth looks even more stunning when covered in snow. Take a seaside winter stroll through Fort Williams Park right next to the lighthouse.
Sandwich, New Hampshire
The name for this cozy New England town is actually quite fitting—it’s sandwiched between the White Mountains and the Lakes Region, both of which are popular tourist spots. As legend has it, the popular food item got its name from the town’s founder, John Montague, the Fourth Earl of Sandwich, who ordered salt beef between two slices of toast so he didn’t have to get up when gambling. Learn the origin of 9 more of your favorite foods.
Park City, Utah
In Park City, Utah, you’ll be situated right by the biggest ski resort in North America, but that’s not all the snow-covered town has to offer. Just 14 miles away is Guardsman Pass, one of the most scenic mountain roads in the state.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
This port city lines the water with charming, colorful New England homes. It calls itself the third oldest city in America, with settlers dating back to 1623.
These beautiful snow-covered towns will get you in the winter spirit.
Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock, Vermont, might sit 50 miles from its namesake music festival, but it has its own history to show off, with 19th-century farms, libraries, and more. Sleepy Hollow Farm on Cloudland Road is just one of the farms to explore and admire. Here are 21 more small towns you should visit before you’re 50.
Boston, Massachusetts
Even when the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill are covered with snow, Boston keeps all of its traditional charm. While you’re in the city, head to Boston Common Frog Pond to ice skate in the nation’s oldest public park.
Leavenworth, Washington
You’d swear you were in Europe on a trip to Leavenworth, Washington. It’s totally intentional too—the town redesigned its buildings to resemble a Bavarian village to attract more visitors. Covered in snow, the efforts certainly make it look cozier than ever. Check out these other 9 American towns that look like they belong in Europe.
Gardiner, Montana
Right at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park sits the population-875 town of Gardiner, Montana. The town was established as early as 1805, and it still looks like something straight out of a Western film. Don’t miss these 40 stunning photos of national parks in the snow.
Camden, Maine
This New England town is postcard-worthy when it snows. Outdoor activities abound including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and glade boarding. In the winter months there is also a festival of lights followed by a parade and craft fair.
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
The Christmas city village in this town is an authentic, German-inspired holiday market. The snowy weather doesn’t stop people in this area from enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and paintball. The Winter Light Spectacular at the Leigh Valley Zoo is a sight to behold. The show reportedly features more than a million lights.
Door County, Wisconsin
Although there are plenty of fun things to do outdoors, this snowy town has plenty of indoor activities to keep things cozy when it snows. Spas, galleries, and boutiques are just a few ways people kill time indoors during the colder months. Here are 10 warm winter getaways if you want to escape the snow.
