These Are The Prettiest Downtown Strips In New England
New England is one of the most interesting regions of the U.S., where many towns and cities were witnesses to important events that shaped the country. With its unmistakable architectural style and distinct culture, New England offers a perfect blend of coastal scenery, green mountains, red brick buildings, and cobblestone streets. While classic choices like Boston, Salem, Providence, and Portland (Maine) don’t need an introduction, the region has plenty of hidden gems. Small New England towns are just as fun, and their downtowns are a real treat for history aficionados and architecture lovers alike. If you are ready to discover the quintessential New England, add these three downtowns to your bucket list.
Newport, RI
Newport is one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded in 1639 by religious dissidents. The city was nicknamed “America’s First Resort,” due to its popularity with affluent vacationers seeking a reprieve from hot and humid summer months. But a few centuries later, Newport has become more than just a coastal vacation spot with a picturesque harbor dotted by dozens of yachts. The town is a haven for history buffs. Because of its commerce, it was one of the most important port cities in the British Colonies in North America in the 18th century. When you walk around the Newport Historic District, you will spot original colonial buildings alongside more modern developments.
Thames Street, the area’s main drag, is the heart of Newport’s downtown, which runs parallel to the waterfront. It’s the place to be, especially in summer, the busiest time of the year in Rhode Island. It's also where you can find some of the most renowned restaurants in New England, like Brick Alley Pub and Gas Lamp, and unique boutique stores, like Style Newport, which sells custom jewelry from maritime materials. Need a place to stay for the night? Book a room at The Francis Malbone House directly on Thames Street. Don’t forget to check out Newport beyond this popular drag, because the city is like an open-air museum with historic mansions, Bowen’s Wharf, and the Cliff Walk, with grand views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you want to learn about early life in one of the original colonies, don’t miss a visit to this coastal town.
Portsmouth, NH
The original capital of New Hampshire and the only coastal town in the state, Portsmouth is home to a remarkable historic downtown with 18th-century buildings. But architecture is not the only game here. Located along the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth also delivers when it comes to food. Many local restaurants offer seafood dishes made from fresh catch, and the farm-to-table movement is alive and well with The Black Trumpet and Moxy serving up inventive dishes that showcase seasonal produce and seafood from New England. The Music Hall, a restored theater built in 1878, is the cultural heart of downtown. The venue hosts concerts, film screenings, and author talks. The key attraction of the city is Market Square, with historic buildings and a lively social atmosphere, while the Strawbery Banke Museum provides a glimpse into Portsmouth's past.
When you need a break, grab a baked treat at Elephantine Bakery and head to Prescott Park to enjoy waterfront views or pop into Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden. If you want to learn about the area’s history from locals, consider joining a guided tour. Portsmouth Historical Society organizes daily walking tours that provide a detailed overview of the area, helping visitors to understand this city, the hub of the New Hampshire Coast. While many visitors treat Portsmouth as a pit stop on their way to Maine, this city deserves your time and attention, so spend at least a day here.
Burlington, VT
Burlington is the most populous city in Vermont, with close to 45,000 people, and is the cultural hub of Green Mountain State. Located along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and south of the Canadian border, Burlington boasts a wonderful downtown strip where colonial history and modern culture go hand in hand. At the heart of downtown Burlington is Church Street Marketplace, a four-block pedestrian mall anchored by First Unitarian Universalist Church, built in 1816 by Peter Banner, an English architect. Flanked by historic buildings, the area frequently hosts farmers' markets, art, and music festivals.
Home to the University of Vermont, Burlington is well-known for its entrepreneurial spirit and eco-conscious views, which are reflected in local businesses and the atmosphere. The town is the birthplace of Phish, an American rock band founded in the early 80s, and its music scene is still a magnet for jam bands, folk artists, and indie rockers. The local café culture is also strong, with places like Onyx Tonics, a specialty coffee shop, and Vivid Coffee, which are known for their commitment to high-quality beans. Besides its famed downtown, the city has some interesting landmarks, including the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, a former home of the Revolutionary War hero, and the Shelburne Museum, a regional museum where you can find artworks by American artists, textiles, and various types of folk art. Or check out Burlington’s Farmer’s Market, where you can buy local produce, crafts, and sample Vermont’s signature products like cheeses, freshly baked pastries, and bread.
Whether you want to learn history, enjoy seafood, or walk along the cobblestone streets, there’s no better place than quaint New England towns. But don’t think that it’s all about dining and shopping - these places are home to some of the oldest architectural landmarks in the country, welcoming locals and with artsy vibes. If you consider one of these downtown gems for your next trip, you could very well find your new favorite escape in the northeast.
