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Where can you find the friendly cities in the United States? The southern states may come to mind, yet, according to a recent report, these five cities were ranked the friendliest towns to visit in the United States.
Here’s what you can do and experience in these friendly states:
1. Hammondsport, New York
In this small city in the southern part of Keuka Lake, you’ll come for the wine and stay for the friendly atmosphere.
While many people turn to Napa Valley to taste aged grapes, the States' best-kept wine secret is in Hammondsport. For over 150 years, they have established themselves as a world-class wine destination.
And don’t worry if wine isn’t your thing; there is also a place for beer lovers. Named New York State’s “Best Craft Brewery” in 2014, Keuka Brewing Company can be your haven.
Through wine or beer tasting, you will connect to the friendly locals of Hammondsport. Yet another way to experience the town’s welcoming vibe is to partake in some of its annual events.
Every September, there is the annual Wings & Wheels. During this celebration, people gather to admire exotic and vintage car shows with seaplane competitions.
For fun activities in the small town, you can head to the lake for standup paddle boards, kayaking, jet skis, and renting Pontoon boats.
2. Mackinac Island, Michigan
One of the most unique towns in the United States is Mackinac Island, where no cars are on the road. Instead, you will find bikes and horse-drawn carriages. This is because cars are prohibited in this town.
The absence of cars and smog may be why the Mackinac Island State Park remains lush and green. This town is a great place to escape from the big city life and bike or walk through nature.
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This small island is so attractive that actors like Vince Vaughn and Bog Seger have homes on Mackinac Island.
With a vibe of peace and tranquility, it’s no wonder that Travel & Leisure magazine named it the #1 Island in the Continental U.S.
Some unique experiences on the island include Skull Cave. As a Michigan Historic site, it was once an ancient burial site.
Arch Rock is a less spooky attraction and a beautiful limestone structure overlooking Lake Huron. And if you’re impressed by the beauty of Arch Rock, you can grab a bike and ride it through the entire island to experience the nature and beauty up close.
3. Cambria, California
Everyone knows that Southern California beaches are the state’s hotspots. Visitors are drawn to SoCal's smooth white sand and crystal blue water. But did you know California also has a black sand beach in Cambria?
And the beaches in Cambria offer more than just dark sand. Moonstone Beach is another unique beach with colorful smooth, polished stones instead of sand.
The town has various outdoor events to help you soak up the California sunshine—some popular events include the Cambria Farmers Market and Sunday Brunch in the Garden.
For a unique experience involving goats, yes, goats, you can visit the Stepladder Creamery. You can taste handcrafted cheeses and honey there while meeting friendly four-legged friends.
If you’re traveling during the holiday season, you’ll want to stop by the Cambria Christmas Market. This market is known to have a spectacular light show with over two million Christmas lights.
4. St. Augustine’s, Florida
Known as the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine is unlike most cities in Florida. Founded in 1565, this city offers history with modern entertainment.
If you want to return in time, you’ll enjoy many history museums, such as the Lightner Museum and the Original Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
For a little more adventure, you can visit the Alligator Farm, which was founded in 1893.
When you’re done exploring the town, you can head to one of the beaches along the Atlantic coast.
5. Leavenworth, Washington
Known as the German town in Washington, this European-style atmosphere is a great place to visit because of its fall celebrations. Some of their most popular events include the Autumn Leaf Festival, Maifest, and Oktoberfest.
Walking through this town, you’ll enjoy the Alpine-style architecture that makes you feel like you're in Europe without leaving the country.
Another great appeal about this small town is how it stays active all year long. Each season offers a unique experience.
During the fall, there’s Oktoberfest. When winter comes, snow falls, leading to various snow activities, such as skiing and witnessing the Christmas lights. When the temperatures warm up in spring, there are opportunities for walking and biking. And in summer, the weather is perfect for camping and hiking.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.