Why downsizing your travel destinations is the new travel trend that everyone is talking about.

While there is something magical about visiting Rockefeller Center at Christmas for the first time or gazing at the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower, there is also something to be said about finding a low-key, under-the-radar destination that feels authentic and unique. Townsizing is the latest travel trend that has travelers pinning lesser-known places, and swapping the hustle and bustle of big cities for small-town destinations with endless charm and character. But here at Small Town Stops, townsizing isn’t just a trend; it’s what we’re all about. 

At Small Town Stops, we go beyond the well-beaten path to find the people and places that make travel meaningful. We understood the allure of townsizing years ago when we published our first article four years ago about a small town in Kansas. Since then, we’ve been sharing insider information from discerning travelers with good taste and no hidden agenda—re-routing you toward unexpected departures.

What is townsizing?

Townsizing is about choosing a destination that offers the charm, pace, and authenticity of a small town rather than the bright lights and crowds of major cities or overpopulated tourist destinations. It’s also about a slower pace of travel that allows for an immersive experience and finding an authentic connection to a place.

The allure of visiting a small town or an under-the-radar destination is all about slowing down without scaling back. So, think of the beautiful boutique hotel with designer thread count and a homemade breakfast every morning, hidden gems that feel like little luxuries, discovering local artisans, cozy coffee shops with a local flavor, walkable main streets, and dining at family-owned restaurants, just around the corner. 

But beyond enjoying a slower-paced, more authentic travel experience, townsizing is about letting your curiosity carve out your own route of discovery.

Why now? What’s driving the shift?

Much of the shift comes from the younger generations looking for more unique and authentic travel experiences. According to Priceline’s 2025 Travel Trends Report, travelers—especially younger ones—are turning their backs on the traditional big-urban cityscape and opting for “cozier destinations and the laid-back vibes of small towns.” 

Avoiding the hustle & overtourism

Many big-city destinations are crowded, expensive, and feel less personal. Travelers want places where the pace is gentler and where they can connect more deeply with the place and people. 

Affordability & value

With travel costs rising (flights, accommodation, meals), small towns often offer better value. The money stretches further, and you’re paying for authenticity rather than novelty. 

Desire for authenticity, slower pace, local connection

Especially for younger generations, travel is increasingly about experience over bucket list. According to Priceline, “67% of Gen Z are more likely to see a vacation as an opportunity to live out their small-town fantasies.” These are not necessarily quick tick-the-box trips, but ones rooted in atmosphere, character, and connection. When your destination is smaller, you’re more likely to wander leisurely, bump into locals, find hidden cafés, and feel like you’re part of a town rather than passing through a city. It gives room for reflection, rather than constant motion.

Avoiding overtourism

Smaller towns often aren’t as stressed by mass tourism as major hubs. Travelers choosing to go “off the beaten path” can help distribute the tourism load.

Support for the local economy and sustainable tourism

By choosing smaller destinations, travelers contribute more meaningfully: your dollars go directly to local shops, eateries, artisans, and the sustainability footprint is often lower (fewer massive infrastructure demands, less overtourism stress).

Small Town Stops

For us, the rise of townsizing is a welcome affirmation of our editorial ethos: that travel doesn’t always have to mean the largest city, the biggest attraction, or a packed schedule. 

Townsizing is about choosing the smaller story—less rush, more meaning. It’s driven by curious travellers, authenticity seekers, and those wanting a slower rhythm. In a world where “go big or go home” has long been the mantra, townsizing flips the narrative. It’s less about monuments and mega-cities, and is more about main streets, conversation over coffee, sunsets over quiet rooftops, and the timeless charm of a place that isn’t trying to be everything for everyone.

For us, the concept of townsizing opens up a fresh perspective around traveling by visiting lesser-known places and regional gems, plus immersive stays and local conversations that shape your unique experience, one that no one else can have.

Here’s to the little places that inspire our curiosity—and the trend that’s reminding us why they matter.