The Loveliest Small Towns To Visit In New England

If you’ve ever been to New England before, and especially during the autumn season, you’ll know that this part of the country has a special kind of charm that can’t easily be replicated elsewhere (perhaps maybe in original England). Small New England towns are reminiscent of simpler times, with main streets full of local shops, pizzerias, and ice cream parlors. So here are some of the loveliest of these all-American towns you can visit.

Edgartown, Massachusetts

Edgartown is located in perhaps one of the most famous New England getaway destinations, Martha’s Vineyard. Edgartown was once a whaling port and is full of beautiful restored historic homes. You can take a tour that’s hosted by the Martha’s Vineyard Preservation Trust and see the landmarks like Dr. Daniel Fisher House and the Old Whaling Church.

Essex, Connecticut

Essen is a small, picturesque historical town that’s right by the Connecticut River. Here you’ll be able to find parades, concerts, and many small town events. You can book a stay at the Griswold Inn, which is the “oldest continuously operating inn in America,” according to the New York Times. Sounds a lot like Stars Hollow to us.

Stowe, Vermont

You might have heard of Stowe thanks to its famous ski slopes, but even if you’re not into winter sports, there are plenty of reasons to visit this beautiful, storybook looking town. You can visit the Trapp Fmaily Lodge, which is Austrian inspired and any lover of The Sound of Music will absolutely appreciate.

Mystic, Connecticut

If you’ve seen the Julia Roberts film Mystic Pizza, then yes, this is the very same town where that film took place in. There’s a reason why this lovely little town was chosen for the movie, thanks to its waterfront views, plenty of seafood eateries, and Colonial style buildings.

Bar Harbor, Maine

While Bar Harbor is a bit bigger than the other New England towns on average, it is still full of that New England charm. There are plenty of art shows, concerts, farmers’ markers, walking tours, and more. Best of all, it’s located right by Arcadia National Park, which is absolutely stunning.