@libsea: My assumption is that you attend an elite NYC prep school. College is different.
While “ruthless competition” and “endless studying” are unattractive realities of your current environment, it is important to attend a college or university with highly intelligent, motivated students. If you settle for less based on your current experience, you may be setting yourself up for disappointment.
Since you want a fun, preppy environment with lots of cultural opportunities but do not want to be in a major city, you may like SESP at Northwestern University which is on Lake Michigan and has sailing available for all students.
Another approach may be to consider the Honors Colleges at large public universities.
Miami University in Ohio may be of interest to you.
Hard to make recommendations without knowing your intended major, any career plans, and weather preference.
My simpliest advice to you: Do not over-react to the competitive demands of your current environment. If you do–and aim too low–you may be seeking transfer advice in a year or two.
P.S. I agree with other posters who have suggested Dartmouth College. Low pressure, preppy, high intelligence environment. Taking just 3 courses per trimester alleviates a lot of stress.
Also, there are some schools suggested in this thread which are almost certain to disappoint you.
Examine Dartmouth College & Northwestern University’s SESP and share what you like & dislike about each school in order to better refine your search.