Planning
Diana Lotti
If you are the type of traveler who loves to do road trips or squeeze every ounce of fun out of a weekend getaway, then one of the things you probably love is visiting small towns. Weekend travel is undoubtedly one of the most exciting ways for couples and families to get away for a mini adventure. However, if your travels take you down an unfamiliar country road either on a Sunday or Monday, you may encounter one potential pitfall. Small-town businesses are often not open on Sundays or Mondays.
But, what are the reasons behind the weekend closure of small-town businesses? One reason goes back to the colonial period when Blue Laws were established. These laws used to prohibit commercial activities on Sundays, but many of these laws have evolved since then. Another reason is more practical since many of these small-town businesses are family-owned. According to Marketing Professor Roger Beahm told WFDD, “the ultimate objective for these small business owners is to meet customer need profitably. And to balance what the expense is of keeping the lights on and the doors open relative to how much revenue comes in during those days.”
Despite these potential small-town business closures, they will vary from state to state. So by no means should you stop exploring small towns on Sundays and Mondays. Instead, check business hours ahead of time and create a mini schedule of the best things to do in the small town you plan to visit.
Activities to do in Small Towns
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Small-town life is famous for being more slow-paced and quaint full of mom-and-pop shops, restaurants, and farmer’s markets. Some small towns even look like they’re stuck in time. If you happen to visit on a Sunday or Monday, and the local businesses are closed, don’t fret. Small towns have so much more to offer. Vit Travelers suggests a variety of small-town activities, such as hiking in a nearby state or national park, having a picnic by a lake, exploring the streets on a bicycle, or staying in a Bed and Breakfast.
It’s important to note that family-owned businesses are much in favor of work/life balance. You will notice many families spending time together on Sundays and Mondays, including enjoying some outdoor activities like disc golf or kayaking in the summer or skiing in the winter. Other times, small towns host events on the weekends. You can check out local festivals or events, wine tasting or vineyard tours, or explore the countryside on a scenic drive. No matter what you decide to do, small-town life is sure to offer experiences that differ from the hustle and bustle of city living.
