8 Towns in the Northern United States With the Best Downtown Areas in 2024
The Northern United States comprises four regions: New England, the Mid-Atlantic, the Old Northwest, and the Great Plains. The regions differ topographically depending on the area, covering everything from coastal to mountainous to valleys. Many historic and culturally significant towns dot the Northern states, making them popular destinations.
Maine is famous for its historic coastal towns packed with architectural wonders. Vermont is known for its rolling hills and captivating foliage colors in the fall. These eight towns have the best downtown areas because of their historical significance, live venues, and charming community events.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a classic coastal town on Mount Dora Island in Frenchman's Bay. It is the gateway to the Acadia National Forest, a locale that draws worldwide visitors annually. The small town has an unforgettable downtown area along the bay, where the smell of the ocean permeates the colorful, clapboard storefronts. The walkable village has eclectic shops like the Rock and Art Shop, specializing in natural history artifacts and exhibits.
The food scene is phenomenal; visitors do not have to look far to find fresh lobster or blueberry-inspired dishes. Stewman's Lobster Pound Bar is a local favorite that offers traditional lobster bakes and tables facing the harbor. It is located in the elegant Harborside Hotel, which includes a spa and marina. Galyns is also notable for its fresh seafood and five separate dining rooms with art-filled walls.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth, New Hampshire's historic town, has an extraordinary downtown district that centers around Market Square. The walkable area features views of the iconic North Church steeple, which sits majestically over the town clock. North Church also has kiosks where visitors can sign up for historic walking tours, an ideal way to learn about the area's historical significance.
Market Street has several historical structures, including the Moffatt-Ladd House and Garden. The home overlooking the Piscataqua River was built in the 1760s by the Moffatts, whose family would occupy the residence for 150 years. It has been a museum since 1912. Another historical masterpiece is the Athenaeum, a Federalist-styled reading room open to the public since 1817. The historic architecture and modern boutiques make this one of the best downtown districts in New England.
Newport, Rhode Island
Picturesque Newport, Rhode Island, is over 300 years old with harbor views, Colonial architecture, and a vibrant downtown. The charming downtown area hosts many festivals throughout the year, particularly in the Fall. The Harvest Festival at Newport Vineyards is one such event, held at the end of October, and promises grape stomping contests, live music, and other fun activities. Downtown is remarkable and one of the reasons people visit this historic town.
Thames Street is the main road through downtown and leads past classic architecture, brick storefronts, and the 5th Ward, the Irish district. Many popular restaurants, like the Red Parrot and Brick Alley Pub, are on Thames, as are numerous boutiques. Long Wharf Mall is a collection of shops like Only in Rhode Island and Goodies by the Sea. There is much more to see and do downtown, including shopping at the Brick Market Place and antiquing on Spring Street.
Montpelier, Vermont
Montpelier, Vermont, is the smallest capital city in the United States. It is also a quaint and charming place with a spirited downtown area. The landmark State House is one of many historic buildings featuring elliptical curves and replicated 19th-century drapes and furnishings. Montpelier is famous for its farm-to-table cuisine, and downtown is home to many exquisite restaurants that offer farm-fresh menus.
American dining options like J. Morgan's Steakhouse and Hugo's Bar and Grill are within walking distance of the State House and mixed with several other international restaurants. Sarducci's is a popular Italian restaurant, while Arandas Mexican Cuisine on State Street is a staple downtown. Montpelier offers one of the best downtown experiences for history buffs, foodies, or anyone looking for a pleasant stay in a charming and historic town.
Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish, Montana, is an angler's paradise, but it also has a charming downtown area with scenic views of several mountain ranges. Downtown is known for its arts and dining scenes. Strolling Central Avenue and exploring the many art galleries like Dick Idol, Going to the Sun, and FoR Fine Art attract many visitors. Street food vendors and fine dining options are plentiful, and several al fresco restaurants are perfect after discovering downtown's attractions.
Popular al fresco restaurants include The Boat Club, Bonsai Brewing, and The Last Chair. The walkable district also has excellent places to grab a nightcap, like Palace Bar and Caseys, which has a dance floor. Whitefish is known for its outdoor adventures and as the gateway to Glacier National Park, but the downtown district is one of the best in the Northern US.
Wellsboro, Pennsylvania
Wellsboro is a shopping, entertainment, and dining hub for its region in North Central Pennsylvania. The brick storefronts that line the downtown area do not offer national chain stores, but there are independent stores like Dunham's, a department store. The nostalgic area feels like stepping back in time, especially at the famous Wellsboro Diner.
The diner is almost 50 years old and is famous for its prime rib dinners and home-cooked meals. Within three blocks is the Tioga County Courthouse on Main Street. The Federalist-style building was initially constructed in 1835 and serves as a town landmark. The pedestrian-friendly downtown is fun to uncover and includes historic structures and unique shops like Farmer's Daughters.
Saratoga Springs, New York
Once known as the "August Place to Be," Saratoga Springs has a vibrant and cosmopolitan downtown district. Sophisticated art galleries like Flores and Living Resources are staples with a large following and several well-known culinary destinations. Salt and Char is a classic American chophouse offering a modern setting and atmosphere. Downtown also boasts traditional listening rooms and exciting nightlife.
Caffe Lena has been an award-winning listening room since 1960 and is famous for its American music style. Sophisticated nightlife options include The Wine Bar and Kindred, which offers small-batch local wines. The lively town also offers weekly events like Saratoga's Best Happy Hours and several live music opportunities.
Burlington, Vermont
Classic Burlington, Vermont, has a historic downtown that dates to the mid-1700s and comprises independent boutiques and restaurants. The four-block Church Street Marketplace, in the center of downtown, is home to over 100 boutiques like the Crow Bookshop and eateries like Honey Road. Many historic structures are here, many of which date from the American Revolutionary War.
Self-guided history tours are available at Church Street Marketplace, which showcases exquisite structures like the Richardson Building. The brick edifice was constructed in 1895 on iconic Church Street and is one of a handful of Chateauesque-style buildings in town. The tour winds past the Masonic Lodge, built between 1897 and 1898 at the top of Church Street. Independent shops, award-winning restaurants, and landmark architectural styles make Burlington one of the most attractive towns in Vermont.
The Northern United States is packed with historic and nostalgic towns. Scenic Whitefish, Montana's downtown, is famous for its cuisine and stunning natural views. Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, has landmark structures, including the courthouse, and unique shopping opportunities. Newport, Rhode Island, is famous for its sailing races but has a downtown area that dates back 300 years.
Towns like Montpelier, Vermont, may be small but boast many attractions that make them popular travel destinations. There are numerous cultural attractions like live theatres and art galleries, especially for small towns. These eight charming downtowns have a strong sense of culture and Americana and are among the best in the Northern States.
