Five Cottage-Style Destinations for the Perfect Summer Escape

These charming vacation spots will inspire your next adventure.

Text by Bethany Adams

Looking for an excuse to get away? Whether you’re interested in a relaxing weekend spent oceanside or a chance to explore a brand-new place, we’ve put together our favorite cottage-style destinations to inspire your next adventure. No matter the season, these communities and locations prove that cottage charm can be found anywhere.

1Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Boothbay Harbor
Photography by Mac Jamieson

Looking for sweeping ocean views and fresh lobster but prefer to stay off the beaten path? Boothbay Harbor offers all of the beauty of Maine with a relaxing, restful vibe—and Topside Inn is the perfect place to experience the region.

2Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island
Photography by Stephanie Welbourne Steele

Eight miles around, this island in Lake Huron is listed as a National Historic Landmark, and it holds plenty of historic charm. From the lilac festival to horse-drawn carriage rides, Mackinac Island is an enchanting summer experience.

3Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas
Photography courtesy of the Fredericksburg Convention and Visitors Bureau

With rich German American heritage, unforgettable dining, and picturesque views of Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg, Texas, offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you favor visiting the historical park, the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, or one of the area’s 45 vineyards, you’ll find more than 900 guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts in the area perfect for enjoying your stay.

4Aiken, South Carolina

Aiken, South Carolina
Photography by William Dickey

Aiken, South Carolina, is known for its equestrian culture, but that isn’t all this community has to offer. Set beneath iconic oak canopies, Aiken’s fascinating history and thriving art scene present a unique getaway filled with Southern hospitality.

5Petals from the Past

Petals Farm
Photography by John O’Hagan

With countless varieties of garden shrubs, perennials, fruit, and more, this 25-acre nursery in Alabama is a destination for gardeners looking for heirloom plants. In addition to the diverse growth thriving throughout the property, lectures, workshops, demonstrations, and guided tours make the trip well worth the time.