As someone who’s been watching Gilmore Girls on repeat since it first premiered in the early 2000s, I can confidently say no one loves Stars Hollow more than I do. From the quirky town traditions (and even quirkier residents) to its cozy New England charm, Stars Hollow feels like a home away from home. It may not be a real place, but it holds a special place in my heart, and every fall, I find myself wishing I could walk around the town square or participate in one of the many festivals.
Luckily, there are plenty of real-life small towns across North America that have the same cozy feel, complete with charming shops, seasonal events, and scenery that’s straight out of a postcard. So, if you’re also craving a fall getaway that feels like stepping into a Gilmore Girls episode, read on for a list of the seven small towns that capture the same nostalgic, feel-good energy of everyone’s favorite fictional town. Just don’t forget to pack a chunky sweater or your favorite flannel.
Stowe, Vermont
This historic Vermont town (which dates back to the 1700s) might be known as the “ski capital of the east,” but it’s much more than a skiing destination. Catching a glimpse of the iconic white steeple buried in an array of fall foliage is one reason Stowe is a must-visit destination for any East Coast Gilmore Girls fans. I’ve been three times myself, and the charming mountain town never disappoints.
Stay at the Green Mountain Inn, where the picturesque dining room is straight out of Sookie’s mind and the rooms are Lorelai-level cozy. Walk just down the road to grab breakfast at Butler’s Pantry, where I’ve had the best blueberry pancakes of my life, doused in fresh Vermont maple syrup, of course. Bring a bottle of the local delicacy home when you shop at main street staples like Stowe Mercantile and Shaw’s General Store. Finally, take a scenic drive to the many nearby hiking trails or ride the Gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield for truly jaw-dropping views of the surrounding hills that will make you feel like you’re watching the opening credits of Gilmore Girls.
McMinnville, Oregon
The East Coast isn’t the only region of the country that can capture the small-town magic of Stars Hollow. Gilmore Girls fans are touting the hidden gem of McMinnville, Oregon as the closest thing to the iconic set. It won’t be hard to pretend you’re checking into the Dragonfly Inn with Lorelai when you stay at A’Tuscan Estate Bed and Breakfast, thanks to its roaring fires and cozy furniture.
The Wildwood Café has all the old-fashioned diner appeal of Luke’s, complete with endless steaming mugs of coffee. Browse the McMinnville Antique Mall for take-home treasures and be relieved you don’t have to haggle with Mrs. Kim. Finally, loop in a vineyard visit in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable fall getaway in store.
Unionville, Ontario
Most of Gilmore Girls was filmed on soundstages at the Warner Bros. Studios in Los Angeles, but the pilot was actually filmed in—wait for it—Canada. The town of Unionville, Ontario, served as the primary filming location for the very first episode, and street shots are used throughout the entire series. While it’s not the actual set, Unionville is home to the original “Luke’s Diner” where they filmed, multiple gazebos, and the red brick church featured in shots of main street.
Unionville is less than an hour from Toronto, so you can fly into the international airport and rent a car. You could even make Unionville a day trip and stay in Toronto where there are more hotel options. First, you’ll want to stroll the charming main street—pop into shops and browse Varley Art Gallery. When you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a burger at Jake’s on Main (if the weather is nice, enjoy the patio) or settle in for a cozy meal at Nextdoor Restaurant. For a dash of nature before heading back to the city, visit Toogood Pond Park, where you can walk the loop around the water.
Winterset, Iowa
When I was a little girl, every fall, my grandma, mom, aunt, sister, two girl cousins, and I would drive to Winterset, Iowa for the Covered Bridge Festival. We spent the day looking at quaint vendors that took over the main streets, popping into shops, and eating delicious comfort food at the local café. I remember being instantly charmed by the old-school courthouse in the middle of the town square that reminded me of Stars Hollow.
This year, the festival takes place on October 10 and 11, so you can experience that small-town magic yourself. Don’t forget to walk across the six historic covered bridges and soak up the surrounding foliage. Winterset is where Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood filmed The Bridges of Madison County, so you can tie in a film-buff tour while you’re there.
Nevada City, California
Even though Gilmore Girls is set on the East Coast, the West Coast has its own array of charming small towns, and Nevada City, California is a prime example. Packed with historic brick storefronts, gas-lamp-lit streets, and quaint bookstores, the historic mining town has a surprisingly similar feel to Stars Hollow. It’s so picturesque, a Hallmark movie was even filmed there. Nevada City is chock-full of Victorian architecture that resembles the homes and businesses in Stars Hollow.
Funnily enough, it’s brimming with New England maple trees, so in the fall, crisp and colorful leaves blanket the town. Catch a film at the Nevada Theatre, which is California’s oldest operating theater, and grab drinks at Nevada City Winery or Three Forks Bakery & Brewing Co. Tucked into the Sierra Nevada foothills, it’s also a prime spot to stay with access to exploring the Tahoe National Forest when you need a nature escape.
Woodstock, Vermont
With cobblestone streets, covered bridges, and incredible fall foliage, this New England town feels like the set of Gilmore Girls IRL. When summer comes to a close, crisp air and crunchy leaves turn Woodstock into an ideal fall getaway. Stop by F.H. Gillingham & Sons general store for some Vermont maple syrup and locally made cookies, then check out the seasonal events and horse-drawn carriage rides (Lorelai’s favorite) at Billings Farm & Museum.
You’ll also want to grab brunch at Mon Vert Café before popping into Yankee Bookshop, Vermont’s oldest independent bookstore, to browse their selection. If you’re visiting in early October, don’t miss the town’s annual Woodstock Apples & Crafts Fair, where you’ll find homemade goods and cider doughnuts. Whether you’re staying at a cozy inn or just passing through for an afternoon, Woodstock is a fantastic place to soak up some small-town charm.
Leiper’s Fork, Tennessee
For a dose of Stars Hollow charm with a southern accent, head to Leiper’s Fork, located just outside Nashville. Touted as “Tennessee’s best-kept secret,” this town is small but packed with character. Think antique shops, art galleries, and front porch concerts that feel straight out of a town festival episode. Sit by the fire pit at Creek Gallery and shop for souvenirs at The Copper Fox, which is situated in a restored 1860s home. This tiny village is charming, unexpected, and exactly the kind of place where Lorelai would escape to if she ever needed a break from Connecticut.
Lanesboro, Minnesota
If Stars Hollow traded its gazebo for a riverside trail and had a Midwestern twist, it’d feel a lot like Lanesboro. This small town is full of charm with a historic downtown, quirky art scene, and the kind of everybody-knows-everybody feel that would make Taylor Doose proud. Start your visit with breakfast at Home Sweet Home Café, then stop by The Peddler to browse through vintage treasures and handmade goods. You can also catch a show at the Commonweal Theatre (Miss Patty would approve) before heading back to your room at one of the town’s many B&Bs (Lanesboro is known as the “bed & breakfast capital of Minnesota”). It’s the perfect place to lean into your dreams of staying at The Dragonfly Inn and enjoy a weekend of cozy, small-town vibes.
Camden, Maine
Camden is the coastal grandmother version of Stars Hollow. This harbor town offers the best of both worlds: crisp air and colorful foliage plus ocean views and cozy seaside restaurants. Start your morning off with coffee and pastries from Zoot Coffee, then browse around the local shops like Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café (yes, it’s both a bookstore and a café) and The Smiling Cow, a gift shop that’s been around since the 1940s. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike to the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park for picturesque views before grabbing dinner on the waterfront. You can also catch performances at the Camden Opera House or browse the Camden Art Walk, which happens every third Thursday through October. The crowds typically die down after summer, making fall the perfect time to visit and enjoy this charming town.
Saugatuck, Michigan
Saugatuck is the kind of place that makes you want to wear your coziest flannel, pick apples, and sip warm beverages. Known as one of Michigan’s most artistic communities, this town is full of charm, from the murals and art studios to the seasonal markets and live music. In the fall, the town turns into a cozy haven with colorful trees, crisp lake air, and a walkable downtown decked out with pumpkins and mums. You can stroll the tree-lined streets, shop at locally owned boutiques like Endora and Lulu Cadieux, and sip coffee from Uncommon Coffee Roasters. To take advantage of the gorgeous scenery, take a quiet shoreline walk along Oval Beach, or visit Mount Baldhead Park, where you’ll get panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Want more fall flair? Head just outside of town to Crane Orchards for apple picking, fresh cider, and pie flights (we all know how much Lorelai loves pie).
Beacon, New York
Members of Team Jess will feel right at home in Beacon. Just under two hours away from NYC by train, this artsy small town has everything brooding bad boys (and girls like Rory) love: indie shops, record stores, and cafés. Spend the morning wandering around Dia Beacon, a massive modern art museum inside a converted factory, then grab lunch at Beacon Quality Eats or shop for vintage finds along Main Street. If you’re feeling outdoorsy, hike Mount Beacon for views that are well worth the climb. Or skip the hike and just enjoy browsing the Beacon Farmers Market with a coffee in hand. Either way, this is the perfect fall day trip if you want to experience Stars Hollow with a little edge.
Washington Depot, Connecticut
This one’s for serious Gilmore Girls fans. If you’re looking to get the true Stars Hollow experience, Washington Depot is the destination. This town is widely believed to be the real-life inspiration for Stars Hollow, and it definitely lives up to the hype. The town square, quaint shops, and slow-paced vibe make it the perfect place to spend a cozy fall weekend. Visit The Pantry for a latte and breakfast, check out the Hickory Stick Bookshop (where you can grab a copy of one of Rory’s favorite novels), and explore Hidden Valley Preserve for scenic walking trails and stunning fall foliage. With cozy inns and locals who greet you with a smile, Washington Depot is the kind of town that makes you want to move there and fall in love with the local diner owner.
Want more relaxing vacation ideas? Try these:
- This Is Your Sign to Take a Cozy Cabin Trip: Here’s How to Plan One
- 9 Mountain Trip Ideas for When You Want to Unplug and Reset
- Why a “Reading Retreat” Is the Girls’ Trip Idea You Need to Try This Year
Christine Winder, Contributing Writer
Christine is a long-time reader turned contributing writer for the Everygirl. She has a BA in Communications from Roanoke College and lives with her two cats in Richmond, Virginia, where she writes for several local publications.
We get it: Your PTO is precious. So when you finally set that OOO message, you deserve a trip that’s unforgettable—not one that makes you feel like you need another vacation to recover. We compiled our favorite travel destinations, must-have travel gear, and sanity-saving hacks to bring you The Everygirl’s Ultimate Guide to Travel, so you can spend less time stressing and more time soaking it all in.
