8 Towns in New England that Were Ranked Among US Favorites

New England has a way of winning you over. From the rocky coastlines of Connecticut to the granite peaks of New Hampshire, this six-state corner of America packs more character per square mile than almost anywhere else in the country, and the locals know it. Eight of its towns, in particular, have earned a reputation that stretches well beyond regional pride, ranking among the most beloved destinations in the entire United States!

Kennebunkport, Maine

Whether it's the charming Seashore Trolley Museum, the historic St. Anne’s Church, the lively Ocean Avenue, or the beautiful Goose Rocks Beach, the town of Kennebunkport warmly welcomes those who love a delightful mix of history, art, and nature. Nestled in York County with a cozy community of just over three thousand residents, this charming town is also proud to be home to the Goat Island Lighthouse, standing at twenty-five feet and first built in 1880. Visitors can also admire President Bush’s Summer Compound and Ganny’s Garden, a heartfelt tribute to former First Lady Barbara Bush. Plus, Kennebunkport boasts a variety of friendly hometown shops and inviting eateries, including Daytrip Society, Chez Rosa, and the Hurricane Restaurant—all nestled within the lively spot locals call Dock Square.

North Conway, New Hampshire

Just seventy miles northwest of Kennebunkport, the charming town of North Conway is most famous for the Conway Scenic Railroad, giving both visitors and locals a wonderful chance to enjoy a scenic trip through part of the stunning White Mountains. With a population of just over two thousand, this town is also home to some well-known natural landmarks like Cathedral Ledge, Diana’s Bath, and White Horse Ledge—beautiful sites that highlight the natural beauty for which upper New England is celebrated. And if you enter North Conway from the south via what locals affectionately call “The Strip,” you'll find a variety of outlet shopping options, including L.L. Bean, along with delicious places to eat like the Beef & Ski Restaurant.

Bennington, Vermont

Located in the southwestern corner of the state of Vermont, the quaint town of Bennington is home to a plethora of great attributes, like the Bennington Museum, which showcases some of Grandma Moses’ paintings, the Old First Congregational Church, where Robert Frost is buried, and the Park-McCullough House, displaying the history of the area from as early as 1852. There are also several natural attractions to be enjoyed in Bennington, including walking through the Burt Henry Covered Bridge, first built in the late 1830s, the Papermill Village Covered Bridge, first constructed in 1889, and the Silk Road Covered Bridge, first built in 1840; all of which span the Walloomsac River at some point.

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Nestled along the beautiful Atlantic coast, just across the Connecticut River estuary from Old Lyme, Old Saybrook is famous for its charming lighthouses, Saybrook Breakwater and Lynde Point. Lynde Point was first lit in 1838, with Saybrook Breakwater following nearly fifty years later. This lovely coastal town, home to around ten thousand residents, boasts a variety of delightful restaurants, like Fresh Salt on Bridge Street and Liv’s Oyster Bar on Main, as well as a charming collection of mom-and-pop shops. For those who enjoy exploring history, there are several antique stores in downtown Old Saybrook, including Re-Unique, Tava’s Vintage Shop, and the Trove.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Whether you're swimming at Race Point or Herring Point Beach, taking a relaxing stroll along the Provincetown Causeway, or exploring the beautiful Beech Forest, Provincetown offers an abundance of natural attractions that visitors love. You'll also find several fascinating historical sites here in Provincetown, Massachusetts. The Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum marks the first landing of the Mayflower in 1620 and celebrates the Mayflower Pilgrims with its impressive 235-foot-tall monument. Don't miss Commercial Street, which runs between the Atlantic Ocean and Bradford Street, filled with charming local shops, cozy places to stay, and delightful seafood restaurants such as Heavy Petal, Angel’s Landing, Mews Restaurant & Cafe, and the Lobster Pot.

Lincoln, Rhode Island

Nestled in the charming town of Lincoln, with around twenty-two thousand friendly residents, you'll find a wonderful place full of attractions that make it a fantastic vacation spot. Enjoy the beauty of Lincoln Woods and Blackstone River state parks, where you can indulge in fishing, swimming, kayaking, boating, hiking, and even horseback riding. History buffs will love visiting Arnold House and Hearthside House, where a glimpse into the past adds a special touch to your visit. Plus, the town offers a variety of inviting shops and restaurants, like the Wicked Good Bar & Grill, which is popular for its NFL game broadcasts, and Fred & Steve’s Steak Restaurant, owned by two former professional football players—perfect spots to relax and enjoy some great food.

Woodstock, Vermont

With three charming covered bridges close to town, including the Middle Covered Bridge right in downtown Woodstock, plus delightful shops and cozy eateries like the Vermont Flannel Company and the Prince and the Pauper Restaurant, Woodstock truly shines as a beloved vacation spot. The Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller Historical Park celebrates the town with fun events such as guided hikes up the South Peak of Mount Tom and the vibrant Forest Festival. Held every September, the festival highlights the importance of ecology and local history, offering enjoyable experiences like horse-drawn wagon rides, woodworking workshops, and peaceful walks beneath the forest canopy with guides who share fascinating stories from the area's past.

Camden, Maine

Camden is often considered one of the most beloved towns in all of New England. Alongside well-known cities like Portland, Boston, and Burlington, it charms visitors with its rich natural beauty and vibrant culture. Camden Hills State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with activities like hiking, fishing, picnicking, and camping. Down in the lively downtown Main Street, you'll find charming mom-and-pop shops and inviting restaurants such as the House of Logan and Mixed Greens. The town also boasts a wealth of history, from the historic Camden Opera House, opened in 1894, to the High Street Historic District, which offers a glimpse into an early 20th-century neighborhood with its charming collection of structures.

The area known as New England, located in the northeastern corner of America and comprising six states, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, is filled with a plethora of great towns. These towns, from Kennebunkport, Maine, and Goat Island Lighthouse to Old Saybrook, Connecticut, and its antique stores, and back to Camden, Maine, and Camden Hills State Park, are ideal for spending a weekend or even an entire week with family, friends, or even alone.