new travel pattern called “townsizing” is gaining traction among U.S. travelers—especially members of Gen Z—who are opting for smaller, quaint towns over major metros for their breaks. According to a 2025 report by Priceline, 67% of Gen Z are more likely than average to pick small-town destinations (such as Old Saybrook, CT; North Wildwood, NJ; and Cape Cod, MA) to live out “cozy, film-like” escapism.
