10 Most Remote Towns In America You Wouldn’t Think To Visit
What if the most breathtaking views were hidden miles away from the nearest airport, in towns so remote they feel like they belong to another time?
These aren’t your typical tourist destinations. In fact, you probably wouldn’t even think to visit them. But maybe that’s the point. Because tucked away in the farthest corners of America are towns that defy the ordinary!
These are places where landscapes, quirky traditions, and tight-knit communities thrive miles away from the beaten path.
1. Barrow, Alaska
Up in the icy reaches of Alaska lies Barrow, there is a town where the sun disappears for months but the spirit of the people never dims.
This remote settlement is home to the Iñupiat, who have thrived in these extreme conditions for centuries. It’s a place where tradition meets resilience, with whaling still a core part of the culture.
Adventurers seeking to experience life on the edge of the world can explore the tundra and perhaps even catch a glimpse of polar bears. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live in perpetual twilight? Barrow has the answer.
2. Marfa, Texas
Hidden in the high desert of West Texas, Marfa is a town where art meets the wild, open landscape. What began as a railroad water stop has transformed into a cultural oasis, famed for its mysterious lights and contemporary art installations.
Marfa draws creatives like moths to a flame, with galleries and installations that redefine the boundaries of art. It’s where minimalism and maximalism mix perfectly.
At night, the famous Marfa Lights have puzzled onlookers for decades. Are they atmospheric reflections or UFOs? The mystery only adds to the town’s allure.
3. Taos, New Mexico
Taos pulses with creativity, adventure, and spiritual energy, drawing in artists, explorers, and seekers from all corners of the world.
Envision adobe buildings blending into the landscape, each a canvas for the town’s artistic soul. This UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a living testament to the area’s indigenous roots.
For those captivated by the mystical, the Taos hum, an unexplained low-frequency noise, adds a layer of intrigue. Have you ever felt the pull of a place steeped in creativity and history? Taos might just be calling your name.
4. Ely, Nevada
Founded during the copper boom, Ely retains its Wild West charm with a touch of modern hospitality.
Picture old-fashioned locomotives chugging along, echoing the town’s railroading past. The Nevada Northern Railway offers a nostalgic ride through stunning scenery. It’s perfect for history buffs and train enthusiasts.
Beyond the tracks, Ely’s wide open skies are a stargazer’s paradise. The annual arts and culture festival adds a splash of color to this desert gem. Ely proves that even in the remotest parts, adventure and history come knocking. Ever wanted to time travel? Ely is your ticket to the past.
5. Wall, South Dakota
The Wall is more than just a gateway to the Badlands. It’s a quirky roadside attraction that has charmed visitors for decades.
It’s home to the legendary Wall Drug Store. It’s a place that started as a modest roadside stop offering free ice water and grew into a sprawling wonderland of kitsch, cowboy boots, and five-cent coffee.
Where else can you pose with a giant jackalope or wander through a gallery of Old West art? So next time you’re speeding down I-90, don’t just pass it by.
6. McCarthy, Alaska
McCarthy is a town that time forgot! Once a hub during the copper mining boom, now offers a peek into the past, surrounded by the grandeur of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Imagine rustic cabins and an old wooden bridge, all against a backdrop of mountains. McCarthy’s remote charm is only accessible via a single gravel road, adding to its mystique.
Adventure seekers can explore the remains of the Kennecott Mines or hike through untouched wilderness. McCarthy’s allure lies in its isolation, where silence is only broken by the whisper of the wind or the call of an eagle.
7. Escalante, Utah
Do you know there’s adventure you didn’t even know you crave? It’s called Escalante!
It’s not on the main tourist trail, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. At first glance, this little desert town seems unassuming. It’s quiet streets, a few quaint cafes, and a laid-back vibe almost dare you to underestimate it.
But those who take the detour soon discover a world that feels untouched, raw, and utterly mesmerizing.
8. Lovelock, Nevada
Known for its unique love lock tradition, Locklock invites couples to seal their affection with a padlock on a heart-shaped sculpture.
Picture a quaint town surrounded by arid beauty, where love literally hangs on every corner. The tradition, inspired by ancient customs, has turned Lovelock into a symbol of enduring romance.
Beyond its amorous allure, the town offers an escape into quiet desert landscapes, perfect for introspection and exploration. Have you ever considered leaving a piece of your heart in the desert?
9. Forks, Washington
Forks is just the name conjures images of misty forests and gray skies. At first glance, this small, rain-soaked town on the Olympic Peninsula might seem like little more than a dot on the map. But look closer, and you’ll find a place brimming with mystery!
Yes, it’s the setting for the Twilight saga, and fans still flock here to see the rainy backdrop that inspired the vampire romance. But Forks is so much more than teenage love stories.
The real magic lies in the natural beauty surrounding the town. From hiking trails to the beaches of La Push, it offers endless exploration. Ever pondered the charm of a rainy day? Forks turns drizzle into an art form.
10. Glacier, Washington
At the edge of the North Cascades, Glacier, Washington, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This tiny mountain town serves as the last stop before the breathtaking Mount Baker, offering year-round adventures.
Envision peaks and cozy log cabins, where the air is crisp and the views are endless. In winter, skiers flock to the slopes, while summer invites hikers and mountain bikers to explore lush trails.
Glacier’s charm lies in its simplicity, where nature takes center stage. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or tranquility, this town provides a perfect escape from the ordinary.