These Are the Friendliest Towns in the U.S., According to Expedia Traveler Reviews

With the coldest months of the year behind us, you may be dreaming of a summer vacation. For millions of Americans, it will be their first time traveling in over a year.

With international options still limited, what better way to ease back into traveling than with a trip to one of the friendliest towns in the U.S.? Expedia is making it easier to do exactly that. Using data from traveler reviews, the online company ranked the most welcoming towns across the country, along with some suggestions of what to do while there.

Topping the list is Whitefish, Montana, a small town known for its outdoorsy adventures and proximity to Glacier National Park. Landing in second place is Sister Bay, Wisconsin, a charming town that's ideal for boaters and fishermen. Third on the list is Manitou Springs, Colorado, where visitors can enjoy art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques. Adventurers can also check out the local hot-air balloon rides. Rounding out the top five friendliest towns are Easton, Maryland (in fourth) and Lihue, Hawaii, a picturesque destination with sweeping green valleys and excellent views of the Pacific Ocean.

Maine, Colorado, and Hawaii are apparently very friendly states, with several towns from each making the top 20. One destination, however, may come as a surprise: Manhattan, New York. It's the only big city on the list, coming in at number 14.

To create this list, Expedia used data from traveler reviews written between January 2019 and December 2020. The list is based on cities and towns with the highest percentage of positive reviews mentioning words like "friendly," "friendliest," and "amiable."

For anyone planning a trip to one of these friendly destinations and beyond, Expedia's Spring Sale is going on now through March 31. Travelers can save up to 20% off on select hotels.

For other details revealed in Expedia's most recent travel trends report, click here.

Jessica Poitevien is a Travel + Leisure contributor currently based in South Florida, but she's always on the lookout for her next adventure. Besides traveling, she loves baking, talking to strangers, and taking long walks on the beach. Follow her adventures on Instagram.