Summer is a great time to travel, with its sunnier days, warmer weather and endless things to do. But considering the desert gets hot in summer, that's also when people tend to head to higher elevations to beat the heat, and the crowds roll in. If you’re more in favor of a quieter getaway, now is one of the best times to explore the Southwest's charming small towns. Fewer crowds, cozy cafés and dramatic mountain scenery make the springtime a perfect time to wander. Here are a few options for a quick (and quiet) weekend getaway.
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1. Ouray, Colorado
You don't have to travel to Europe for a taste of Switzerland—just head to Ouray. Out in the southwest region of Colorado, getting to Ouray is a drive that’s worth it. The closest airport is Montrose Regional Airport, about 40 miles away, but once you arrive, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a dramatic box canyon with waterfall views, snow-dusted peaks and Victorian-era buildings.
Spring here means fewer tour jeeps along the trails and more room to wander Main Street or hike nearby cascades like Box Canyon Falls. Start your morning with a soak in the Ouray Hot Springs Pool, explore the downtown shops midday and end it with a local brew and mountain sunset. For a stay that leans into the town’s historic charm, book a night at the Beaumont Hotel.
Plan your trip at visitouray.com.
2. Bisbee, Arizona
When it comes to elevation and cool temps, Northern Arizona gets all the attention. But you could head south instead to Bisbee, an old mining town turned artsy hideaway. Bisbee is equal parts quirky and cool—quite literally. Sitting at a higher elevation in southern Arizona, it stays milder than the desert floor, making it a perfect spring escape. Colorful hillside homes, vintage storefronts and a thriving artist scene give it personality in spades, and make even walking around town a fun activity.
Spend the day popping into galleries, sipping coffee at Bisbee Coffee Company (some places offer free espresso), or touring the underground tunnels at Queen Mine Tour. Come evening, the town leans into its slightly haunted, slightly bohemian vibe, in the best way. Stay at the historic Copper Queen Hotel for a full immersion.
Plan your trip at discoverbisbee.com
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3. Taos, New Mexico
For an artsy town with mountain views, Taos is a great weekend getaway, layered in culture, history and landscape. Set against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, it blends Native American heritage, Spanish influence and a long-standing artist community into something entirely its own.
Start with a visit to Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. Then browse local galleries or take a scenic drive out to Rio Grande Gorge Bridge for those jaw-dropping views.
Plan your trip at visittaos.org.
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4. Kanab, Utah
Film and history buffs will want to head to Kanab for this spring getaway. Known as “Little Hollywood,” Kanab has long been a backdrop for Western films but these days, it provides easy access to some of the Southwest’s most striking landscapes like Arches National Park and Monument Valley. The best part: it’s still relatively under-the-radar compared to nearby national park hubs.
Base yourself here to explore coral-pink sand dunes, slot canyons and scenic drives without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
Plan your trip at visitsouthernutah.com.
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5. Durango, Colorado
Another Colorado town on the list, Durango in the springtime brings mountain energy without the full-blown ski resort chaos. Sitting at the edge of the San Juan Mountains, it’s got that perfect mix of outdoor adventure and laid-back charm, plus just enough buzz to keep things interesting.
Spring is shoulder season here, which means better rates, fewer crowds and front-row access to everything from hiking trails to the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Stroll downtown, grab a craft beer at Steamworks Brewing Company and settle in at the Strater Hotel for a dose of Old West charm.
Plan your trip at durango.org.