The Southwest’s Most Adorable Small Town?
Six imposing states—California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico—combine to form the American Southwest. Although the phrase “American Southwest” can conjure up certain stereotypical images, such as Clint Eastwood walking through a saloon door while smoking a cigar, the area is not all about ranchers and cactus. In truth, this stunning and historic region of America is home to a wide variety of landscapes. You must arrange a trip to experience it for yourself, and although the region’s larger cities may be popular with tourists, the more rural places also have their beauty. Here are the top tiny town in the American Southwest, each of which is a popular travel destination.
Idyllwild, California
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This alpine town’s attraction is mostly due to the lack of chain eateries, lakes, or ski resorts. Come here to relax amongst towering pines and cedars and explore the nearby and nearby trails. Grab a drink at the Idyllwild Brewpub, relive your youth with a slice of pizza from the unassuming Idyllwild Pizza Company, or stock up on food and goodies at the Idyllwild Village Market.
Joshua Tree, California
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The little village of Joshua Tree, which is located along Twentynine Palms Highway (about the park’s northern boundary), may be missed if you blink. Thanks to the enigmatic-looking yucca plant that bears its name, this place is lovely and strange. Boy Scout Trail or Barker Dam hikes in the national park are a real joy, but so is strolling around the town, which has a quaint and devoid Western feel. Visit Natural Sisters Cafe for sandwiches and snacks, Joshua Tree Coffee Company for coffee, and Pie for the People or Sam’s Indian Food and Pizza for supper.
Ojai, California
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Pink sunsets, also known as “pink moments,” are common in Ojai due to the reflection of the setting sun’s light on the Topatopa Mountains, which serve as the city’s dramatic backdrop. Ojai Avenue is a great place to shop and dine. Tipple and Ramble offers the most attractive terrace for a wine and cheese tasting. Additionally, you may hire a bike and travel the Ojai Valley Trail all the way to Ventura or through nearby tangerine farms. The Capri Hotel, the Ojai Rancho Inn, and the majestic Ojai Valley Inn are all excellent locations to stay the night.
Taos, New Mexico
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With views to die for, a rich Indigenous heritage, and a flourishing population in Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been inhabited for more than 1,000 years, Taos is a high desert town bordered by the picturesque Sangre de Cristo Mountains. After seeing the pueblo, think about taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside or swimming in the neighboring Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs to see the scenery. If you’re in town, try La Cueva Cafe or Manzanita Market for a delectable dinner. Consider taking a stroll along the Rio Grande Gorge West Rim Trail.
Silver City, New Mexico
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The community of Silver City in the Phrazle Southwest is a reliable starting point for a variety of experiences since it is situated at 6,000 feet and close to Gila National Forest. Walk around the charming downtown and stop at art galleries, as well as eateries like Adobe Springs Cafe or Jalisco Cafe. Put on your hiking boots and go for a hike at the close-by City of Rocks State Park or the slightly further Catwalk Recreation Area, both of which are renowned for their breathtaking canyon vistas.
Virginia City, Nevada
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Henry Comstock found the first silver in the United States in 1859 on property he shared in Nevada’s Virginia Range. Virginia City became a thriving mining town as a result of the silver rush. Today, the town is quite aware of its past. A trip on the Virginia and Truckee Railroad and visits to mining sites or buildings, like the wooden Fourth Ward School Museum, built in 1876, are like stepping into a real-life history book. Before you go, sit down at the bar of an Old West saloon – the Bucket of Blood saloon earns our selection based on its name alone.
Moab, Utah
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Anyone who enjoys the smoldering beauty of red sandstone mountains or who wants quick access to amazing state and national parks will find paradise in this area of eastern Utah. Explore the town’s art galleries, quirky stores, and even microbreweries before getting ready for hiking excursions in the nearby national parks of Arches (10 minutes away), Canyonlands (30 minutes away), and Dead Horse Point State (40 minutes away).
Springdale, Utah
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Springdale is your entrance point if you’re traveling to Zion National Park from the west or south. For hungry hikers, this little hamlet in the Southwest, which is located at the entrance to Zion Canyon, provides quick meals (we really like the burritos at Oscar’s Cafe). Grab a patio table town at your preferred restaurant after a tiresome day at the park and enjoy the sunset over the red-rock canyon cliffs.
