The Small Cities and Towns I’m Thankful For
If travel this year has felt out of reach, expensive or competitive, consider these six small cities and towns you might not have thought of, and the reasons why you should.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
I never understood why my parents took weekly bus trips to Atlantic City. Joining them once, I found a disheveled boardwalk, littered beach, and smoke-filled casinos that felt sad—a far cry from the glitz and glamour the area once maintained. But now, after economic hardships and the devastation of Superstorm Sandy, Atlantic City has placed its bets on revitalizing itself, and it’s paid off.
I was pleased to see the boardwalk buzzing with activity, with newer properties like the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Ocean Casino Resort creating a more welcoming atmosphere. I loved seeing a commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, including spaces such as the gay-owned Byrdcage Restaurant and Bar and Angeloni’s Club Madrid, as well as organizations like the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs and the Atlantic County Queer Alliance. While I didn’t get to experience it personally, there’s also the Diva Royale drag show, and Bianca Del Rio takes the stage next January.
After exploring the city, I checked into the Borgata for a two-night staycation. I was immediately surprised by how open and airy it felt—a far cry from the claustrophobic casinos I’d known in the past. I stayed in the MGM Tower, which was recently renovated and offered affordable luxury, including an adults-only indoor pool that allowed me to bask in the sunshine even though it was 40 degrees outside. Around the property, I enjoyed a great facial and relaxing soak at Spa Toccare and memorable meals at Angeline, featuring classic Italian food from James Beard Award–winning chef Michael Symon; B Prime Steakhouse, where I tried Kobe beef (it lived up to the hype); and Old Homestead Steakhouse, an extension of the 150-year-old New York institution serving premium cuts, including hand-massaged Wagyu beef (which did not disappoint).
I’m not much of a gambler, but Borgata’s 25,000 square feet of gaming space was enticing, especially learning how to play baccarat and finding slot machines like Wonder Woman, Whitney Houston, and Little Shop of Horrors. While I didn’t win big money, I did hit the jackpot with an on-site performance by Sting, who effortlessly rocked “Roxanne,” “Every Breath You Take,” “Desert Rain,” and other favorites. For nightcaps, B Bar’s Luminous Lemonade and a Sauvignon Blanc at The Wine Bar and Italian Kitchen hit the spot.
As a bonus, Atlantic City is just over an hour from Asbury Park, so you can easily visit two LGBTQ+-inclusive beach destinations in the same trip.
Athens, Georgia
Widely praised as one of the best college towns in the U.S., Athens (about 90 minutes from Atlanta) is home to the University of Georgia and its beloved Bulldogs. Even as a non–sports fan, I felt an immediate connection to the city’s youthful energy and incredible music scene, which helped launch bands like R.E.M., the B-52s, and Widespread Panic.
I stayed at the newly opened Bell Hotel, housed in a 1916 landmark originally built for Southern Bell Telephone and Telegraph’s cutting-edge equipment. My spacious suite had plenty of personality, with local artwork and funky decor, and was the perfect place to unwind with a glass of wine after a full day out. I also had a chance to tour The Athenian, a Greek Revival home turned inn with elegantly designed rooms modeled after Greek gods. I fell for the Ares and Poseidon suites, but you can’t go wrong with any room here.
Both accommodations are steps away from downtown’s eclectic mix of bars, coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques—many tucked inside striking Victorian-era buildings—which were a joy to explore. My favorite stops included St. Louisa’s Church, a queer-friendly venue with eye-popping wall art; Community, a locally owned shop featuring sustainable clothing and artisan goods; 1000 Faces for a terrific latte and an exceptionally welcoming atmosphere; and Last Resort Grill, where I enjoyed flavorful Southwestern dishes like chicken in parchment (and my neighbor’s salmon and grits also earned rave reviews). Along the way, it was fun to spot the guitar-pick-shaped plaques along the Athens Music Walk of Fame, designed by local artist Allen Sutton.
Beyond downtown, Athens has several other vibrant neighborhoods. I ate and drank my way through Five Points, a charming area dating back to the 1920s, with wine at the cozy Bar Bruno, truffles from Condor Chocolate, and warm focaccia and fresh tagliatelle Bolognese at ZZ & Simone’s. In Normaltown, I caught an amazing drag show at Hendershot’s, tasted wine at Tapped Bar, and shopped for British-style provisions at Birdie.
I was lucky enough to visit during Athens Pridefest and Parade (held June 7). Watching the city show up—loudly, joyfully, and unapologetically—for its LGBTQ+ community moved me. As someone who has spent a lifetime navigating what it means to be queer in different parts of the country, seeing that kind of visibility and celebration in the South felt powerful. It reminded me that queer joy isn’t confined to big coastal cities; it’s wherever people choose to show up for one another. In Athens, it thrives—and I left with new friends and lasting memories.
Bristol and Providence, Rhode Island
I immediately felt welcome in Bristol, a historic deepwater seaport that felt like a true slice of Americana. And in case there was any doubt, Bristol is home to the oldest continuous Independence Day celebration in the United States (the first dates back to 1785).
With exploring history in mind, I visited Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum, a grand 1908 estate filled with original furnishings, expansive gardens, and sweeping views of Narragansett Bay. Being here made me feel like an extra on The Gilded Age in all the best ways. Linden Place, a stately 1810 mansion on Hope Street (the area’s main thoroughfare), was another standout, complete with a richly detailed audio tour. I also learned about Bristol’s nautical legacy at the Herreshoff Marine Museum, where more than 70 boats help tell the story of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company and its role in the America’s Cup sailing competition.
All of these sites were perfectly complemented by my stay at the Bradford-Dimond-Norris House, built in 1792 and lovingly restored with modern amenities. My only complaint was that the house was so comfortable—and the hosts so easy to be around—that leaving each morning required serious willpower.
Of course, Bristol doesn’t just live in the past. I took a brisk walk, went for a swim, and lounged by the water at Colt State Park; learned about the art of making fine spirits and cocktails at O’Brien and Brough, which turned me into a rye-and-whiskey fan; got delicious handmade scoops at Gray’s Ice Cream; and, despite my shellfish allergy, had one of my best dinners of the year at The Lobster Pot. At this local institution, I snagged a seat at the Cheers-like bar and had a flavorful steak while listening to a live band. The night only got better when a conga line broke out, and I got to know my neighbors, including a retired military veteran in town for a family reunion. Ordinarily, I don’t love sitting at the bar or making small talk with strangers, but here in Bristol it felt effortless and fun—adding to the town’s undeniable appeal.
Bristol is just a 30-minute drive from Providence, which I also recommend visiting for its lively arts scene, diverse dining, and LGBTQ+ inclusiveness, including one of the best Prides I’ve ever experienced, complete with a daytime festival featuring performances and local vendors, a nighttime illuminated parade, and block parties (there’s nothing like dancing outdoors surrounded by thousands of strangers). I also suggest visiting the RISD Museum to explore impressive art collections or timing your trip for the amazing WaterFire, and exploring the College Hill and Federal Hill (Little Italy) neighborhoods.
Beyond Pride, the queer nightlife is always in full swing, especially at The Eagle, The Stable, EGO, Mirabar, The Dark Lady, and Alley Cat—so save your energy for some bar hopping (if that’s your thing).
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
Visiting Prince Edward Island felt like stepping into a storybook, which was no surprise, given that it inspired the classic novel Anne of Green Gables.
I began my trip in the island’s capital, Charlottetown (also known as “the birthplace of Canada”), where I was smitten with colorful Victorian buildings, especially along Victoria Row, and a lovely waterfront boardwalk where strolling with a cone from COWS Ice Cream is practically required. Other highlights included the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which hosts everything from Broadway favorites to performances by the Mi’kmaq Heritage Actors; Victoria Park for green space and water views; and browsing the shops on Queen Street—including several bookstores—and Great George Street. After just a few hours, Charlottetown felt like one of the friendliest places I’ve ever been.
In the evening, my husband and I feasted at Claddagh Oyster House, a local institution with the freshest seafood in a cozy brick building, and Pink Crow for tasty wood-fired pizzas. Coffee and breakfast at Leonhard’s Café and Restaurant and Receiver Coffee were perfect starts to the day. Our visit was also elevated by a stay at the Rodd Charlottetown, where barrel-vaulted ceilings and marble floors gave the hotel a classic feel (it was built in 1931). An indoor pool and sauna were also nice touches.
Outside of Charlottetown, we walked the gorgeous Greenwich Dunes Trail, which includes a floating boardwalk and dunes rising over a pretty beach, and visited Basin Head Park, known for its pure white sand that “sings” when you walk on it (due to its high silica content). We also adored the village of Victoria by the Sea, Brackley Beach, and Covehead Lighthouse. Nearby, a night at Dalvay by the Sea, a historic Victorian-era inn nestled within Prince Edward Island National Park, made for a tranquil and relaxing getaway.
And even if you’ve never read Anne of Green Gables, Green Gables Heritage Place—the setting that inspired L.M. Montgomery’s classic books—offers a look at the author’s life along with walking trails that capture the area’s timeless appeal. Nearby, we had tea and breakfast at the charming PEI Preserve Company, strolled the on-site Gardens of Hope, browsed indie shops in North Rustico (affectionately known as “the Crick”), and headed back to the beach. Since much of the island’s shoreline is within the national park, you won’t find built-up resorts or condos. Aside from washrooms, changing rooms, and a few concession stands, it’s mostly just you and the sand, adding to the island’s laid-back charm.
Hamilton County, Indiana
Easily combined with nearby Indianapolis, Hamilton County is a vibrant collection of compact cities and towns that have become destinations in their own right. Despite some of Indiana’s more conservative politics, I found the people to be super friendly and felt very welcome as a gay traveler.
I based myself in Carmel, staying at the sleek, art-deco-style Tallison Hotel , just ten minutes from Carmel City Center—a compact but lively area filled with shops, restaurants, a cute main square, the chic Hotel Carmichael, and the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. After dinner and a show at Feinstein’s (inside the Carmichael), I couldn’t resist a giant slice of “Millionaire Cake” from The Cake Bake Shop (it was so big I ate it for days).
Nearby, the Carmel Arts & Design District dazzled me with more than 200 art and design-focused businesses along a charming Main Street. I explored boutiques, street art, and local eateries like The Garden Table, which serves seasonally inspired dishes. Silver in the City, a quirky shop celebrating diversity, stood out with its broad selection of LGBTQ+ books and gifts. I stretched my legs on the Monon Trail—a popular walking and biking path—and caught up on my reading at Midtown Plaza, a communal outdoor space with lawns, comfy seating, a big-screen television, and ping-pong tables.
The next day, I visited historic Noblesville Square, framed by the beautiful French Renaissance Hamilton County Courthouse and pretty brick buildings. I browsed antiques at Logan Village Mall, refueled at Noble Coffee & Tea, and dined at bar ellis, a cozy spot offering comfort food, including chicken noodles and vegetarian and vegan options. I also rode the Nickel Plate Express, taking in scenic views from a historic 1950s dining car.
Over in Fishers, dinner at 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo in The Yard—an impressive cluster of restaurants and bars—delivered mouthwatering steak. Then I stepped back in time at Conner Prairie, an 800-acre outdoor museum tracing Indiana life from 1800. Highlights included an 1859 hot-air balloon ride and the Promised Land as Proving Ground exhibit on African American history and culture in Indiana.
A short drive took me to Atlanta, Indiana, where I toured the paranormal Roads Hotel, a historic Queen Anne building that was once a brothel and speakeasy. Despite no ghostly encounters, hospitable owner Crystal and her brother Mike made the visit memorable—and tempting enough to return for another spirit session.
San José del Cabo, Mexico
While Cabo San Lucas is known for its flashy party scene, I was drawn to neighboring San José del Cabo for its tranquil vibe and artistic soul. That energy comes alive during the weekly Thursday night ArtWalk (November to June), when galleries stay open late for special events, lanterns glow above the cobblestoned streets, live music spills from corners, and locals and visitors mingle in a festive rhythm.
Even outside ArtWalk nights, the Arts District is a delight to wander. I spent an afternoon browsing vibrant pieces at Ivan Guaderrama Art Gallery and Corsica Galería de Arte, and admiring Juan Sotomayor’s striking animal sculptures. The colorful streets lead to Plaza Mijares, a lovely square anchored by a historic mission church and surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.
My other goal in visiting was simple: rest and recharge. Just minutes from town, Meliá Paradisus Los Cabos helped me do exactly that. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort sits on a rare swimmable beach on the Sea of Cortez, where I spent my days splashing, napping, and watching a sea turtle (from a safe distance) as she dug a nest to lay her eggs. The friendly staff, multiple pools and bars, and my spacious swim-up suite in The Reserve—an upscale resort-within-a-resort—made it tempting to never leave. I even took my first sound bath. As a cynical New Yorker, I wasn’t convinced it would be my thing, but floating gently while bowls chimed around me helped me shake off more stress than I expected.
Dining options ranged from traditional Mexican dishes to a steakhouse and a gourmet Asian spot, and the resort’s destination-inclusive approach shows up in thoughtful design touches and community connections, including guided outings to San José del Cabo’s town center. One of the most LGBTQ+ friendly hotels I’ve stayed in, Meliá is “Queer Destinations Committed,” with staff trained to offer warm, respectful service to all guests.
