It seems birdwatching is all the rave in so many areas. We have this huge wildlife preserve near our home dedicated to birdwatching. It’s so cool to walk through and glimpse the birds and of course nature generally. If you’re looking to move to a town where you can birdwatch or take a trip, here are 25 smaller towns in the US to consider because they are known among birders as a great place to go.
23. Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May, a Victorian-era seaside town, is one of the most charming birdwatching destinations on the East Coast. Known for its beautiful beaches and historic homes, the town is also home to the Cape May Bird Observatory, where birdwatchers gather to witness the spectacular fall migration. The area attracts thousands of raptors, including peregrine falcons, broad-winged hawks, and ospreys. Shorebirds like sanderlings and ruddy turnstones can be spotted along the coastline. Cape May’s quaint streets lined with colorful Victorian homes make it an ideal destination for both birding and leisurely strolling.
22. Homer, Alaska
Nestled on Kachemak Bay, Homer is a remote yet picturesque town that offers some of the best birdwatching in Alaska. Known for its stunning mountain views and small-town charm, Homer is famous for the annual Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival in May. The town is a major stopover for migratory birds, with species like the red-necked phalarope, western sandpiper, and dunlin passing through. The bald eagle population in Homer is particularly impressive, with eagles often seen soaring over the bay or perched in nearby trees. Homer’s art galleries, small shops, and seafood eateries add to its quaint charm.
21. McAllen, Texas
Located in the Rio Grande Valley, McAllen may be small, but it boasts an incredible diversity of bird species due to its proximity to both tropical and desert ecosystems. The Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park are major birding hotspots, offering sightings of rare species such as the green jay, great kiskadee, and the colorful Altamira oriole. The town’s warm climate, friendly local culture, and annual Birding Festival make McAllen a top destination for birdwatchers. The town’s traditional markets and vibrant arts scene add to its small-town charm.
20. Duluth, Minnesota
Perched on the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth is a quaint town with stunning natural landscapes and abundant birdwatching opportunities. The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is one of the best places in North America to observe migrating raptors like the broad-winged hawk, sharp-shinned hawk, and bald eagle. In the spring and fall, the skies over Duluth are filled with these majestic birds. Peregrine falcons and merlins are also frequent visitors. Duluth’s historic downtown, with its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and views of the lake, adds to the town’s cozy and charming atmosphere.
19. Grand Isle, Louisiana
Grand Isle, a small barrier island town in the Gulf of Mexico, is a hidden gem for birdwatchers. The town hosts the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Celebration each spring, as it’s a key stopover for migratory birds traveling along the Mississippi Flyway. Birders flock here to see warblers, tanagers, orioles, and roseate spoonbills. The town itself is a peaceful fishing village with wooden cabins and quiet beaches, making it an ideal spot for both birdwatching and relaxation. The laid-back atmosphere of Grand Isle adds to its quaint charm.
18. Saugatuck, Michigan
This charming lakeside town is not only known for its art galleries and historic homes but also for its excellent birdwatching along the shores of Lake Michigan. The Saugatuck Dunes State Park is a prime spot for spotting migrating waterfowl like loons, scoters, and mergansers in the fall. In the spring, the forests come alive with warblers, thrushes, and woodpeckers. Saugatuck’s historic downtown, with its old-fashioned general store, quaint inns, and lovely riverside walks, makes it a perfect destination for birdwatchers who enjoy charming small towns.
17. Apalachicola, Florida
Apalachicola, a historic fishing village on Florida’s Forgotten Coast, offers a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers. The nearby St. Vincent National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for migratory birds, including bald eagles, ospreys, and red-shouldered hawks. Coastal species like the brown pelican, royal tern, and black skimmer are also common sightings. Apalachicola’s small-town charm is evident in its preserved 19th-century architecture, fresh seafood restaurants, and friendly local community, making it a great place to unwind after a day of birding.
16. Sitka, Alaska
Sitka, located on Baranof Island, is a quaint coastal town surrounded by stunning Alaskan wilderness. The town is home to the Alaska Raptor Center, where injured birds of prey like bald eagles and great horned owls are rehabilitated. Birdwatchers can spot species such as marbled murrelets, pigeon guillemots, and harlequin ducks along Sitka’s rocky shores. Steller’s jays and ravens are commonly seen in town. Sitka’s Russian and Tlingit history, visible in its architecture and local culture, adds a unique charm to this small, bird-filled community.
15. Galveston, Texas
Galveston is a quaint coastal town with Victorian-era charm and some of the best birdwatching in Texas. The Galveston Island State Park is a prime spot for viewing shorebirds like black-necked stilts, American avocets, and Wilson’s plovers. Migratory species such as sandpipers and sanderlings flock to the island in the fall and spring. Birders can also spot great egrets and roseate spoonbills in the marshlands. The town’s historic district, with its charming old homes and lively boardwalk, adds to the appeal of a birdwatching trip to Galveston.
14. Cape Charles, Virginia
Located on the Chesapeake Bay, Cape Charles is a quaint and historic town that’s perfect for birdwatchers. The nearby Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge is a key migration stop for songbirds, raptors, and waterfowl. Birdwatchers can expect to see ospreys, bald eagles, snow geese, and great blue herons. The town’s beautiful Victorian homes, quiet beaches, and friendly community make it a serene and relaxing spot for birders. Cape Charles’ small-town charm and scenic waterfront make it a great destination for those looking to combine birdwatching with a peaceful escape.
13. Grafton, Illinois
Grafton is a quaint river town located along the Mississippi River, known for its scenic bluffs and abundance of bald eagles during the winter months. Birdwatchers flock to the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge to see the hundreds of bald eagles that nest along the river. Other birds of interest include pelicans, herons, and white-throated sparrows. Grafton’s historic downtown, filled with cozy inns, antique shops, and riverside restaurants, makes it an ideal destination for birdwatchers looking for a mix of wildlife and small-town charm.
12. Whitefish, Montana
Tucked away in the Rocky Mountains, Whitefish is a quaint, outdoor lover’s paradise. The Flathead National Forest and nearby Glacier National Park offer prime birdwatching opportunities, with species such as golden eagles, great horned owls, and mountain bluebirds. In the summer, common loons can be spotted on Whitefish Lake. The town’s charming streets, filled with local boutiques, cafes, and lodges, provide a perfect base for birdwatchers exploring the area’s natural beauty.
11. Lanesboro, Minnesota
Lanesboro, known as the “bed-and-breakfast capital” of Minnesota, is a quaint town located in the blufflands of the Root River Valley. The nearby Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park and Root River Trail are home to over 200 bird species, including bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, American goldfinches, and scarlet tanagers. Lanesboro’s charming main street, lined with historic buildings and art galleries, offers a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers after a day of exploring the region’s natural habitats.
10. Port Aransas, Texas
Port Aransas, a small beach town on Mustang Island, is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center is a top spot for viewing roseate spoonbills, great blue herons, and black skimmers. During migration season, the town becomes a hub for birders looking to spot rare species like the peregrine falcon and red knot. The town’s laid-back, coastal vibe, combined with its vibrant birding community, makes it an ideal destination for bird enthusiasts.
9. Hatteras, North Carolina
Hatteras, located in the Outer Banks, is a quaint seaside town known for its laid-back atmosphere and excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge is a major attraction for birders, offering sightings of piping plovers, black skimmers, and a variety of terns. In the winter months, snow geese and tundra swans make their way through the region. Ospreys and peregrine falcons are also common sights during migration. The town itself has a classic coastal feel, with small seafood shacks, beach cottages, and local shops, making Hatteras a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers.
8. Chincoteague, Virginia
This charming island town is famous for its wild ponies, but it’s also a premier birdwatching destination, especially in the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is home to a variety of bird species, including great egrets, snowy egrets, and the majestic bald eagle. Black-necked stilts and American avocets can be seen wading through the marshes, while piping plovers nest along the sandy shores. Chincoteague’s small-town charm, with its quaint inns and seafood restaurants, adds to the experience of exploring this bird-rich area.
7. Kearney, Nebraska
Kearney is a small town located along the Platte River and is world-renowned for its spring migration of sandhill cranes. Each year, more than 500,000 cranes descend on the area, creating a stunning spectacle that draws birdwatchers from around the globe. The Rowe Sanctuary is the best place to view the cranes, along with other species such as bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and American kestrels. Kearney’s friendly community and quiet downtown, with its historic architecture and local cafes, provide a charming backdrop to this incredible birdwatching experience.
6. High Island, Texas
A quaint and quiet Gulf Coast town, High Island is a famous stopover for migratory birds traveling across the Gulf of Mexico. The Houston Audubon’s High Island Sanctuaries are some of the best birding spots in the U.S., attracting species like scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks, and prothonotary warblers during the spring migration. In the fall, shorebirds such as plovers and sandpipers can be seen along the coast. High Island’s peaceful, small-town vibe makes it an ideal place for birdwatchers seeking solitude and serenity amidst nature.
5. Ithaca, New York
Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, Ithaca is known for its scenic beauty and rich birdlife. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is located here, offering access to the Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary, where birders can see species like pileated woodpeckers, eastern bluebirds, and scarlet tanagers. The nearby Cayuga Lake also attracts a variety of waterfowl, including common loons and canvasbacks. Ithaca’s quaint downtown, with its farmers markets, coffee shops, and vibrant arts scene, provides a lovely balance to the natural birdwatching experiences in the area.
4. St. Michaels, Maryland
St. Michaels, a charming waterfront town on the Chesapeake Bay, offers excellent birdwatching along its serene shores. The nearby Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge is a major birding spot, where birders can see bald eagles, great blue herons, and ospreys in their natural habitats. The refuge also attracts tundra swans and other waterfowl during the winter months. St. Michaels’ historic charm, with its old brick buildings, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants, makes it an inviting retreat for birdwatchers seeking a quaint and peaceful getaway.
3. Point Reyes Station, California
Point Reyes Station is a tiny, scenic town located near the Point Reyes National Seashore, one of the best birdwatching destinations on the West Coast. The area is home to over 490 bird species, including peregrine falcons, northern harriers, and the rare California condor. Coastal species such as western gulls and brown pelicans are frequently seen along the cliffs, while the inland forests offer glimpses of warblers and flycatchers. The town itself is small and charming, with organic farms, local bakeries, and cozy bed-and-breakfasts, making it a perfect spot for birders looking to unwind after a day of wildlife watching.
2. Grand Marais, Minnesota
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Grand Marais is a quaint town known for its artistic community and excellent birdwatching. The nearby Judge C.R. Magney State Park and Grand Portage State Forest offer prime opportunities to see northern species such as boreal chickadees, gray jays, and black-backed woodpeckers. Common loons and merlins can also be seen along the lake’s shores. Grand Marais’ harbor, lined with colorful buildings, art galleries, and small cafes, adds to the town’s charm, making it a wonderful destination for birdwatchers.
1. Bar Harbor, Maine
This charming coastal town, located near Acadia National Park, is a prime birdwatching destination, particularly for seabirds and raptors. The park’s rugged cliffs and forests are home to species like peregrine falcons, bald eagles, and black guillemots. The nearby waters of Frenchman Bay offer sightings of puffins, razorbills, and great cormorants. Bar Harbor’s quaint streets, filled with historic homes, lobster shacks, and boutiques, provide a relaxing atmosphere for birdwatchers exploring the natural beauty of Acadia.
