The Hippiest Cities in the U.S.

by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 1:35 PM ET, Sat May 20, 2023

Hippies have been an important element of our American culture for over 50 years. Established in the 1960s, this counterculture movement attracted those that rejected the mores of mainstream American life. Many exhibited an unconventional appearance, sported long hair, tie-dyed clothing, drove colorfully painted VW vans, and used hallucinogenic drugs.

One of their mantras was “Make love, not war” in response to the Vietnam Conflict and widespread violence. Instead, they promoted freedom, peace and love. Though things have changed in society since the 60s, hippies have remained. They still fight against violence, they still protect nature, and they still have an alternative lifestyle but today they are viewed simply as “free spirits.”

In many ways, the hippie culture has returned in popularity, as have the cities that support the “live and let live” hippie lifestyle. Some cities you probably know, and some may surprise you.

Bisbee, Arizona

Once a raucous copper mining town, Bisbee was spared disappearing into the desert dust after the mines closed in the 70s. The Bisbee of today was actually rediscovered in the early 1980s by aging hippies and burned-out urban dwellers seeking to escape the stresses of city life.

The cool mountainous terrain and Victorian architecture conjured up a sort of 1960s San Francisco feel and artists were drawn to Bisbee like a moth to a flame.

San Francisco, California

The stunning city by the bay is renowned for its hippie counterculture movement of the 60s. During that time, the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood became a focal point for the movement, drawing thousands of young people seeking an alternative way of life.

San Francisco's hippie vibe was characterized by a spirit of nonconformity, peace, love, and personal freedom. Iconic bands such as the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane emerged during this time.

Though the peak of the hippie movement has passed, San Francisco continues to embody a progressive and liberal mindset, attracting individuals who value creativity, social activism, and alternative lifestyles. The city's vibrant arts scene, diverse cultural events, and emphasis on personal expression contribute to its ongoing reputation as a place that cherishes a free-spirited and accepting ethos.

Manitou Springs, Colorado

Manitou Springs situated at the base of picturesque Pikes Peak is known for its mineral springs. Visitors can get into the Bohemian vibe by exploring its unique shops, getting a Henna tattoo or simply sitting at the park and people watching.

As one of the most authentic hippie towns in Colorado, Manitou Springs goes beyond Colorado liberalism. Even the mayor has been seen sporting tie-dye.

Pa’ia, Hawaii

This small town located on the north shore of Maui is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and vibrant live-and-let-live community. The town is a popular gathering place for professional surfers and windsurfers and is definitely considered a hippie enclave.

Pa’ia has a unique character and the culture of nature, yoga and natural foods reign prevalent. Artists run boutiques and you’ll see old hippies and street musicians all throughout the town.

Unity, Maine

The name alone says a lot. Situated in the central part of the state, Unity has a reputation for its alternative and environmentally-conscious character. The town embraces sustainable living, organic farming and environmental activism.

Unity College is the first U.S. university to base its entire curriculum around sustainable science. As a very liberal art school, it’s no surprise this town is going to trend hippie.

Asheville, North Carolina

Often referred to as a modern-day hippie town, Asheville has developed a reputation for its bohemian atmosphere, progressive values, and eclectic blend of art, music, and alternative lifestyle.

Asheville's hippie vibe started early as the area attracted a countercultural movement seeking a simpler and more communal way of life. The city's location in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and mild climate drew many who embrace a back-to-nature ethos.

Asheville’s vibrant art scene also contributes to its hippie reputation and its music genres showcase folk, bluegrass, indie rock and experimental music. This mountain town also has more breweries per capita than any other city in America. And hippies do love beer.

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Yellow Springs' association with the hippie movement can be traced back to the 1960s when it became a self-sustaining utopia for midwestern countercultural activists, artists, and intellectuals. The small town attracted individuals seeking communal lifestyles and a powerful focus on social activism.

The town has a strong sense of community engagement, and residents actively participate in grassroots activism and environmental initiatives. Yellow Springs has a history of supporting civil rights movements, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental sustainability.

Today it continues to value and nurture free thinking, social activism, and creative expression. Yellow Springs exudes a distinctly bohemian vibe, with colorful storefronts and a diverse range of products catering to conscious consumerism and sustainable living. And no matter where you go, the scent of incense wafts through the air.

Eugene, Oregon

Eugene was a center of counterculture activity in the 1960s and 1970s. The region drew individuals seeking a more communal and back-to-nature West Coast way of life. The influence of this counterculture movement, including the hippie ethos of peace, love, and nonconformity, had a profound and lasting impact on the community.

The city has a long-standing tradition of embracing alternative choices in areas such as organic and vegetarian/vegan food, cooperative housing, and alternative health practices. This openness and support for non-traditional ways of living contribute to Eugene’s perception as a hippie town.

New Hope, Pennsylvania

The charming town of New Hope is located along the Delaware River in Bucks County and is surrounded by picturesque bucolic countryside.

In the 60s and 70s, New Hope became a haven for artists, musicians, free spirits and spiritualists. The town leans liberal in its acceptance and support of the LGBTQ+ communities. New Hope also reflects the hippie spirit of non-traditional, holistic and alternative approaches to life and wellness.

Moab, Utah

Though Utah is predominantly a conservative Mormon state, Moab celebrates the hippie life with style. Nature works its magic here as visitors don’t need to get “high” to enjoy a desert full of otherworldly rock formations.

Many who ventured to Moab were drawn to its laid-back, non-conformist atmosphere and simpler way of life. The area is a paradise for those who long to commune with nature. Others come for spiritual exploration and mind-expanding practices. Art festivals bring together like-minded individuals who appreciate the creative and communal aspects of the hippie culture coupled with Moab’s tranquil and transformative environment.

Burlington, Vermont

It’s the home of Bernie Sanders and Ben and Jerry’s. It’s also the habitat of progressive values and political activism.

Burlington has long been at the forefront of social and environmental causes, promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement. These values align perfectly with the beliefs of the hippie movement, which emphasized social justice, environmentalism, and a rejection of mainstream norms.

Burlington, Vermont, USA at Church Street Marketplace. (photo via SeanPavonePhoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Then there’s the Burlington Earth Clock, a stone circle created by the grassroots nonprofit Circles for Peace. The 14-granite stone clock acts as a compass to help individuals find a sense of inner calm by syncing with the rhythms and cycles of the natural world. Hippies from all over would approve.

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