Nothing says breezy, summery perfection like hanging out lakeside soaking up the sun while finishing up one last chapter of your summer beach read (okay, two). Looking for a new lake area to visit this summer? We’ve rounded up the absolute coolest small lake towns in America—from off-the-beaten-path locales in Texas to the crooked Finger Lakes in New York, summer bliss awaits.
#1 Sandpoint, Idaho
The number one reason we’re bee-lining to Lake Pend Oreille? Well, besides the spectacular views of Montana’s Cabinet Mountains and the Selkirk Mountain Range, the huckleberry lemonade is a major draw (vodka is a necessary addition if it’s after 5 p.m.). After you’re done meandering through the walkable downtown, dig into hearty grub at Spuds Waterfront Grill. Festivals abound here, and a few of our favorites include the Festival at Sandpoint, the Long Bridge Swim (where hundreds of swimmers compete annually), and the 25th annual Fall Fest. If you’re trying to figure out where to stay, the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch won’t disappoint.
