9 Of The Most Charming Towns In The Northern United States
The Northern United States comprises four regions: New England, the Middle Atlantic States, the West North Central States, and the Great Plains. The states have a wide variety of topography, including mountain ranges, vast expanses of forest, and seemingly endless plains. Often called the Heartland, the Northern United States is dotted with small, charming towns. The smaller hamlets are warm and inviting and offer historical and modern attractions.
These nine towns are some of the most charming in the Northern United States because of their historical value, architectural styles, and friendly downtown areas. The natural attractions in these small hamlets, such as mountain ranges, landmasses, and vistas, are stunning and provide gateways to some of the best national parks in the US.
Morristown, New Jersey
Morristown, New Jersey, is known for its Revolutionary War sites, such as Fort Nonsense and the New Jersey Brigade area. The monumental Morristown National Historical Park is where General George Washington and his troops braved a cruel winter. The Continental Army spent the winters here from 1777 to 1780, with the latter years spent in Ford Mansion, which has been meticulously preserved.
A tour through the historic town starts in "the green," the 200-year-old grassy area downtown. Morristown is also known for its arts and culture. The Mayo Performing Arts Center hosts world-renowned live theatre acts and the Morris Museum, one of the oldest art museums in the state. This town is rich in history and culture, making it one of the best in the Northern US.
Montpelier, Vermont
Montpelier is the capital of Vermont, though its population is less than 10,000. The ornate Greek Revival Vermont State House, built in 1859, is home to many fine art collections and an extravagant gold dome. Other historical and cultural sites include the Vermont History Museum, which is housed in the Pavillion Building downtown and includes rotating exhibits relating to the history of the Green Mountain State.
Another charming feature of Montpelier is Hubbard Park. The 200-acre park was one of the first in the town, established in 1899, and includes seven miles of hiking trails and a 54-foot stone observation tower. The Lost Nation Theater is a community theater with live performances year-round. The theater's name is taken from Adams Mountain's moniker, a special place to Vermonters. While it is difficult to traverse, many traverse the range for hiking, camping, and fishing.
Saugerties, New York
"Saugerties" is Dutch for "sawmill," an appropriate name for this charming hamlet in northeastern New York. It is a cultured town with a rich history, including hosting the 1994 Woodstock concert at Winston Farm. Today, it is known for its revitalized town center, boasting several antique stores, shops, and eclectic restaurants. It is also home to the Saugerties Lighthouse on the Hudson River, made with driftwood and covered in flora.
The adventurous enjoy a paddleboard or kayak ride down the Esposus Creek near the 155-acre Esopus Bend Nature Preserve and the Catskill Animal Sanctuary. The town center is revered for its retail therapy, where Main Street includes unique shops like Saugerties Antique Shop and Mother Earth's Storehouse. Saugerties is a charming and quaint northern town with a blend of outdoor adventures, beautiful views, and a vibrant downtown.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a classic seaport on Maine's Frenchman's Bay, in the state's "Down East" region. The charming town is on Mount Desert Island, a gateway to Acadia National Forest Park and Cadillac Mountain, popular among hikers and campers. Acadia National Park is accessible from downtown and includes 45 miles of carriage roads and 16 stone bridges. Bar Harbor is also a cultural center with several museums and historical sites.
The downtown village has numerous shops with large windows and several art galleries like the Artemis Gallery and the Island Arts Association, which hosts live art groups. The local businesses are housed in colorful clapboard buildings, adding to the charm of this beautiful town. Authentic Down East restaurants like Galyn's and Lobster Pound are the ideal way to cap off a day of exploring or shopping. Bar Harbor is one of the most visited towns in Maine due to its coastal beauty, charming storefronts, and outdoor adventures.
Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic, Connecticut, has been a significant seaport on the famous Mystic River for over 300 years. It is also home to the Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Seaport Museum. The 19-acre maritime museum is the largest in the world and includes four historic ships, artifacts, and exhibits. The Mystic Seaport Museum Lighthouse replicates the original wooden structure built in 1900. At only 26 feet above sea level, it is the shortest lighthouse in New England.
Downtown Mystic is a quaint waterfront village with vintage sea captain's homes and a historic drawbridge. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge, built in 1922, connects the Groton and Stonington sides of the village. Downtown is also home to the Mystic Museum of Art on Water Street. The famous American Impressionist painter Charles H. Davis founded the Mystic Art Colony in 1913, and the museum was built in 1931 to further his legacy. Mystic is charming because of its natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant cultural atmosphere.
Galena, Illinois
Galena, Illinois, on the Galena River, offers many panoramic views of the mighty Mississippi River from places like Horseshoe Mound Preserve and exquisite vineyards. The 200-acre preserve offers outstanding hiking trails and beautiful scenery, including views of Wisconsin and Iowa. The Forever Original Experiences is a town initiative that offers educational workshops, wine tastings, and other communal events. It is the best way to experience "Galena Country."
Downtown Galena is a sight with Vitorian-era homes and many historic structures. Ulysses Grant's Federal-style brick home, ca. 1860, is now a museum with original artifacts and paintings from this significant era in American history. Galena's oldest home is the Dowling House, built in 1826 from limestone. Today, it is adorned with original Galena pottery and is available for guided tours.
Concord, Massachusetts
Concord, founded in 1635, was the first inland settlement in Massachusetts. Its name signifies unity and agreement. The small town has a noteworthy history, including being home to literary greats like Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson in the 19th century. Historical and cultural sites include Walden Pond, an inspiration for Thoreau's notable "Walden" in the 1850s, and Minuteman Park. The Emerson residence is now a museum showcasing original furnishings from when he and his wife, Lidian, lived here from 1835 until he died in 1882.
The park is a National Landmark that was the site of the first battle of the American Revolutionary War in 1775 and inspired the era's literary giants. Actors perform live reenactments of the momentous battles, providing insight into the Revolutionary period. The North Bridge is another landmark and is considered where the "shot heard round the world" was fired, which started America's quest for independence. The events on the small wooden structure started a 16-mile battle from Concord to Boston. Concord is one of the most charming towns in the North because of its historical significance and preservation.
Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish, Montana, is a gateway to Glacier National Park, and the town is known for its abundance of outdoor adventures and a vibrant downtown area. Adventures include the Aerial Adventure Park at White Mountain and the Backcountry Flying Experience. The aerial park has over 60 treetop obstacle courses from suspension bridges, rope ladders, and a trapeze. The flying experience is one of the best ways to view Glacier Country Northwest Montana, and private tours are available.
The charming downtown area has majestic views of the Whitefish Mountains and quaint shops and restaurants. The town is walkable, with trails leading from downtown to Whitefish River and Long Beach. Local restaurants and pubs include Abruzzo and the fun-sounding Hellroaring Saloon and Eatery. Whitefish is full of fun and adventure, which is why it is a year-round vacation destination for many people.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
A charming town on the Piscataqua River in New Hampshire, Portsmouth is one of the busiest ports in the US. It is also known for its exquisite 17th—and 18th-century architecture, including Georgian, Colonial, and Federal styles. Many of these homes are found in the Strawberry Banke Museum, an entire neighborhood of preserved homes dating back 350 years.
The Langdon House is another landmark Georgian home that belonged to Governor John Langdon. It was also the site of George Washington, "esteemed the first," and is now an ornate museum where visitors can explore America's birth. The historic downtown district has walking tours starting at the Market Street kiosk twice weekly. It also includes the famous North Church steeple, Portsmouth's "landmark of record." This quaint and historic town is fun to explore, and the architectural beauty makes Portsmouth even more charming.
The small and remote towns of the Northern United States have natural beauty, history, and fun things to do and see. Concord, Massachusetts's American history cannot be overstated, while seaports like Bar Harbor, Maine, and Mystic, Connecticut, are among the most famous. Outdoor adventures are never-ending in towns like Whitefish, Montana, and Saugerties, New York, adding a beautiful backdrop to the charming downtown areas.
The quaint town centers offer plenty of indoor activities, such as museums, shopping, and dining. Bar Harbor is famous for its shops, and some cruise lines use the harbor as a destination point so vacationers can walk the historic streets and discover the boutiques. Whether outdoor adventure or cozy mountainside towns, these nine towns are the most charming in the Northern United States.
