Rural tourism trends say small towns are still cool

Updated on 30 Jun 2023

But you already knew that Tourism Currents, experts on social media for tourism, wrote about 5 travel trends to blog about right now, and there’s a lot for rural communities to latch onto there. 1) Wellness Travel Sheila says, “where people can go to relax, detox, relieve stress, get a massage and spa treatments, eat […]

But you already knew that

Slide text: Times are changing. Putting new destinations on the map: rural towns, countryside, and back to cities. A domestic rediscovery. Blended travel creates longer stays and workcations. Brighter light on wellness.

Some possible travel trends to blog about via Longwoods International, on a slide during the IITA (International Inbound Travel Association) annual conference in San Diego, California. Photo by Sheila Scarborough.

Tourism Currents, experts on social media for tourism, wrote about 5 travel trends to blog about right now, and there’s a lot for rural communities to latch onto there.

1) Wellness Travel

Sheila says, “where people can go to relax, detox, relieve stress, get a massage and spa treatments, eat healthy food, be more mindful, get some exercise, etc.”

You can promote your clean air and water, and even your small town slow pace of life is part of wellness.

2) Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Travel

Some of the keyword trends include:

Greener, more local getaways
Environmentally-friendly travel ideas
Eco-friendly, eco-conscious vacations

3) Multigenerational and Family Travel

Sheila said there has been a spike in searches for “where to plan a family reunion.” This is a great chance to feature how safe your town is for kids, how many activities are open to everyone in the family.

A rustic wooden cabin on a platform stands on a gentle hillside surrounded by green trees. Photo CC by Myles Tan

A rural cabin rented via HipCamp. Photo CC by Myles Tan

4) An Appreciation for Nature & The Outdoors

“Smaller towns, rural areas, scenic byways – they all have an advantage right now, in that travelers still very much want the natural beauty they can offer,” Sheila said.

Hello, nature! See our pair of articles on Harvest Host, Boondockers Welcome and also HipCamp.

5) Unique, Local Experiences

Sheila said travelers want to “Learn about and support local culture. Do something hands-on, like a cooking or craft class, that teaches you about that local culture.”

Look to your local artists, crafters, musicians, makers and other fun creatives. Do they offer short term or one-day classes? Are there longer retreats in your area? All these are smart things to share about your community.

Is this just a fad? No.

“There has been a big uprise in traveling to smaller towns that have some quirky and regional appeal,” said Arabella Bowen, executive editorial director of Fodor’s Travel. “There is a want for a local, authentic, mom-and-pop experience.”

That’s from 2013. And it could just as well be from 2023.

All the themes from 2013’s Changing travel motivations favor small towns are still true. People want to explore, visit local artists, and get off the beaten path.