Massachusetts Small Town Named One of the ‘Most Charming’
There’s something inherently charming about a small town, and that’s true of small towns in the state and across the country. While the big city has its appeal, a small town offers a getaway to not only a beautiful, less hectic place but also a simpler time. Now, one Massachusetts small town has been named one of the “most charming” in America.
‘Most Charming’ Massachusetts Small Town
So, what exactly is a small town? According to the American Public Power Association, “The Census defines small towns as incorporated areas with 5,000 residents or fewer, and big cities as having populations of 50,000 or more.” What’s interesting is that a Gallup poll conducted in 2020 discovered that about half of respondents would rather live in a small town or rural area, which was 9% higher than this preference in comparison to 2018.
With small towns all the rage, HGTV has put together a tally of the most charming small towns in the U.S. What I personally like about this feature is that they didn’t go with the usual small towns that pop up in these stories. As someone who has written about small towns and travels a bunch, I’m used to seeing the same towns featured when it comes to charming small towns, and this collection of towns is really unique. You can tell they made an effort to highlight towns that don’t often get attention, and that’s a beautiful thing.
In the feature, HGTV notes that, “Whether it’s the simplicity, the character or the people, they are a quintessential part of American life.” They also note that they found “hidden gems” in each state, and “towns with quaint shops and restaurants, fascinating histories, fun experiences and natural beauty.”
For Massachusetts, writer Lynn Coulter picks the beautiful seaport of Nantucket, near Cape Cod. So, what makes this place so special? “Visitors come to stroll its cobblestone streets and weather-beaten wharves and explore its charming Main Street, known for its fascinating architecture, boutiques and shops, galleries, restaurants and museums,” Coulter notes. What’s also cool is that this island is a National Historic Landmark.
Trip Advisor praises Nantucket for its “windswept beaches, sand dunes, blinking lighthouses and a charming pace of life await on this 50-square mile island.” They love the spot for its “seaside cottages, old whaling captains’ mansions and historic harbors contain quaint inns, boutique stores, chowder shacks and upscale dining delights.”
