For those who enjoy the beach but are looking for a different kind of getaway, lakeside towns offer similar appeal, often at a lower price point. Across the United States, there are many lakes surrounded by amenities such as waterfront areas, hiking trails, public beaches, local restaurants, and boating facilities, all set within charming towns according to TripAdvisor users. We’ll reveal the best lakeside towns most highly rated by TripAdvisor travelers looking for a relaxing escape!
Grand Marais, Minnesota – Lake Superior
Grand Marais, Minnesota, on Lake Superior is one of the most scenic towns in the United States. It offers great value compared to many coastal destinations, featuring a walkable harbor village and serving as a gateway to the North Shore. You can enjoy hiking trails, Artist’s Point, and the natural scenery, which is even more beautiful during the autumn. TripAdvisor user Mary Jo H commented: “Most of the roads are lined with trees making for beautiful views in the rolling hills.”
Sandpoint, Idaho – Lake Pend Oreille
One of the deepest lakes in the United States is Lake Pend Oreille, which is surrounded by mountainous scenery. Visitors should know that it is much less expensive than the towns around the Rocky Mountains and is an ideal spot for summer recreation. The beaches, lake cruises, and downtown establishments are where most of the activities take place. TripAdvisor user Robert H expressed: “We had a wonderful trip around the lake and we learned a lot of information about the former naval base that was there.”
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin – Geneva Lake
Lake Geneva is one of the best lakeside towns and a classic Midwestern vacation spot. The paths along the shoreline are beautiful, and the variety of accommodations makes for a more affordable stay. If you travel during the shoulder season, you’ll get the best rates while visiting ice cream shops, taking a boat ride, and browsing the downtown souvenir stores. TripAdvisor user P.L. noted: “There are small bistros with terraces where one can relax and admire the landscape from several angles of the Lake Geneva.”
Chelan, Washington – Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan is among the best lakeside towns and features crystal-clear water where many people enjoy paddle boarding or renting a boat. If you prefer not to engage in water activities, you can visit the vineyards or go hiking through the natural landscape. TripAdvisor user interviewtraveler remarked: “The lake is beautiful, and the downtown Chelan area is fun and walkable. There were people around but not too many in the springtime.”
Clarksville, Virginia – Kerr Lake
If you are looking for a relaxing, quiet vacation, Clarksville is the town near Kerr Lake where you can unwind near one of the best lakeside towns. Rentals in the area, such as waterfront cabins, are quite affordable, making it a popular choice for families who want to go fishing or stroll through the historic downtown. TripAdvisor user Justin P stated: “There are a couple of older home sites and other points along the Robert Munford Trail we hike, with some nice views of the lake.”
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Guntersville, Alabama – Lake Guntersville
Guntersville is one of the best lakeside towns and a great city if you enjoy fishing or want to relax while gazing at the mountains. It is also a great destination for saving money, as accommodation is affordable. Other activities you can enjoy in this Alabama city include hiking, eagle watching, boating, or dining at a waterfront restaurant. TripAdvisor user GretchenBlack observed: “It’s an absolutely gorgeous city, peaceful, and very clean. There are lots of places to visit like restaurants and shopping, and it feels like a safe environment.”
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – Lake Coeur d’Alene
In Idaho, the city of Coeur d’Alene is one of the best lakeside towns and a place where you can walk to many downtown attractions. It offers exceptional value compared to other towns with luxury hotels in the West. The lake views provide a stunning natural backdrop, whether you want to go boating or stroll along the floating boardwalk before returning to the city to enjoy one of the local breweries. TripAdvisor user Ivanschitz revealed: “The city is close to several attractions like the Tunnels Trail where you can bike about an hour and into the town where you have burger shops that had been around for over 100 years.”
Traverse City, Michigan – Lake Michigan
Traverse City is among the best lakeside towns and offers direct access to Lake Michigan and the chance to enjoy the area’s beaches. If you prefer exploring, you can visit the city’s wineries or delight in the cherry trees when they are in season. TripAdvisor user sebastian69 commented: “You can tour the farmers market in the morning and then take a walk over the river where all the shops are warm and courteous.”
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Whitefish, Montana – Whitefish Lake
Whitefish, Montana, is one of the best lakeside towns that is a real bargain if you visit during the shoulder season. Paddle boarding or taking a scenic drive to admire the natural landscape is a true pleasure there. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to Glacier National Park, where you can go hiking. TripAdvisor user ThomUSA remarked: “Very nice downtown area, and pedestrian town. I enjoyed the restaurants, bars, shops, picnic and even playing frisbee. It’s a clean and safe place to bring the family.”
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire – Lake Winnipesaukee
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire is one of the best lakeside towns with a charming atmosphere and one of the oldest summer destinations in the United States. With Lake Winnipesaukee nearby, you can take boat tours, dock a boat at the public piers, or stay on dry land to visit historic inns or grab an ice cream. TripAdvisor user Joan K commented: “You can visit the Wright Museum which is a wonderful gem. It exhibits history from the WWII with a mission to educate, entertain and inspire.”
Excelsior, Minnesota – Lake Minnetonka
The charm of Lake Minnetonka lies in its walkable waterfront, making Excelsior one of the best lakesides towns in Minnesota. Historic streetcars, lake cruises, including trips into Minneapolis, and boutique shopping are among the activities visitors enjoy. TripAdvisor user SamandKerr remarked: “A two-minute walk from the charming shops and restaurants of Excelsior you have beautiful lake views, and space to run, sit or have a picnic.”
Branson, Missouri – Table Rock Lake
In Branson, Missouri, you can combine a lakeside vacation with entertainment, making it one of the best lakeside towns for families. Accommodation won’t be expensive, as there is a wide range of hotels available. The town’s family-friendly atmosphere allows you to enjoy Moonshine Beach, the State Park Marina, or the Showboat Branson Belle. TripAdvisor user tsturm commented: “It’s a great place to go for some family fun because of the endless choices you can do there with shows, malls and theme parks.”
Hot Springs, Arkansas – Lake Hamilton
The city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, is one of the best lakeside towns and already appealing for the value it offers year-round, not just in summer, with attractions like the city’s historic district and Garvan Woodland Gardens, which you can explore. As for Lake Hamilton, you can rent a boat or visit Bathhouse Row. TripAdvisor user Tracy L mentioned: “The Central Avenue Market Place is a great place to visit on a rainy day in Hot Springs, with lots of great treasures and good prices.”
Saugatuck, Michigan – Lake Michigan
In Saugatuck, Michigan, located near Lake Michigan you’ll find one of the best lakeside towns with beaches, including the famous Oval Beach, and an artistic community and a town that is easily walkable. Key activities range from visiting art galleries to traversing the dunes. TripAdvisor user HeatherL-STL expressed: “Lots of restaurants and even waterfront dining, ice cream places, and plenty of adorable shops at Butler Street. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon in a very inclusive area!”
McCall, Idaho – Payette Lake
The city of McCall, Idaho, is one of the best lakeside towns that features mountains and is much more accessible than ski towns dominated by resort hotels. Popular activities include paddle boarding and hiking at Legacy Park. TripAdvisor user 411Elle noted: “You get the convenience of a small town, yet you can be out in nature within ten minutes. It’s a pleasant place with plenty to do.”
Eureka Springs, Arkansas – Beaver Lake
What draws attention to Eureka Springs is not only its affordability but also the Victorian architecture it showcases, but also that ranks among the best lakeside towns for travelers. Recreational areas near the lake and reasonably priced cabins are also key features that appeal to travelers. TripAdvisor user mitzitx commented: “The architecture of the town is varied, with gingerbread, stone houses, even a New Orleans style building too. The shops are all charming, eclectic and delightful to walk through them all!”
Polson, Montana – Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is a large body of water located near Polson, Montana, one of the best lakeside towns for boating and fishing. This town boasts an idyllic natural landscape and has a lower population density than the Glacier area. TripAdvisor user MtBot remarked: “Polson is a beautiful, charmingly small city in northwestern Montana that is surrounded by the Mission Mountains.”
Lake Lure, North Carolina
The Blue Ridge landscape is what you see from Lake Lure, one of the best lakeside towns in North Carolina. The area has a historic atmosphere and offers many outdoor activities, making a summer visit highly recommended. TripAdvisor user Mateo T noted: “Lake Lure has a fun places like the beach that is for all ages and family friendly.”
Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio
A vacation at Lake Erie is truly affordable, making Geneva-on-the-Lake one of the best lakeside towns for a summer escape. You can enjoy activities like fishing and strolling past the attractions on ‘The Strip’, or visit a winery while walking along the boardwalk, which is at once nostalgic and popular. TripAdvisor user Roger L commented: “Geneva was a good relaxing vacation where we walked on the beach and skipping stones. It was a relief from the heat and walking through the trail was also beautiful.”
Bigfork, Montana – Flathead Lake
Bigfork is one of the best lakeside towns and a charming Montana site that is much more affordable than other towns and cities where mountains are the main attraction. However, you won’t just enjoy the mountain scenery, Flathead Lake is right there for you to enjoy, alongside art galleries and popular local theaters. TripAdvisor user lawrence557 commented: “We woke up and a deer was eating our garden flowers. It’s an eclectic, fun, clean and entertaining town where you can go on short walks to reach nature.”
Why Lake Vacations Continue To Offer Outstanding Value?
The best lakeside towns, or those situated near lakes, in the United States remain popular attractions because they offer the relaxation of a beach getaway without the high costs associated with hotels and recreational activities. These charming towns provide a unique experience distinct from the typical beach vacation, featuring a different kind of waterfront scenery.
