2 New England Destinations Make CNN’s List of Best Cities to Visit

Journey

You’ll find them in Rhode Island and Maine.

According to CNN, two New England destinations deserve a spot on your travel list.

CNN just released its inaugural list of the top 10 U.S. cities to visit and Providence, RI, ranked #2 and Portland, Maine, ranked #4. First place is Richmond, Virginia.

The 10 winning destinations each have a “wow factor,” according to CNN.

Editors requested nominations from CNN’s network of contributors, then narrowed down the list of favorites by evaluating each city’s sense of identity, attractions, food and drink offerings, nightlife and cultural scene, as well as its proximity to other interesting places.

“We also looked at travel essentials, including accommodation options and ease of getting there and around,” CNN wrote.

Providence, RI, received high marks for its arts, architecture, design, and food scene.

“Downtown Providence’s dazzling riverfront exists because of decades of ambitious work to relocate rivers and roads to beautify and preserve the city,” CNN wrote. “Downtown rivers have danced in the firelight of the beloved WaterFire art installation for decades, and public art is everywhere. The city is also home to the famous Rhode Island School of Design and Museum. Architecture buffs will find plenty to admire, and Providence’s culinary history (with top-notch seafood and Italian cuisine) and diversity of restaurants mean you’ll be treated to a global feast.

Portland, Maine, received high marks for its food scene, coastal setting, and access to the outdoors.

“This historic port town offers very modern restaurants as well as classics reflecting Maine’s status as the lobster capital of America,” CNN wrote. “The food scene here has clearly put it on the map as a culinary destination, with two new James Beard Awards just added to the city’s collection. You’ll also find a thriving craft beer scene and plenty of opportunities to get out on the water or in the woods. Strolling through the bustling center offers a window into centuries of maritime history and a renaissance of the Victorian era.

Check out CNN’s list of the best US cities to visit.