2 New England destinations made CNN’s list of best towns to visit

You’ll find them in Rhode Island and Maine.

WaterFire in Providence, R.I. WaterFire

Two New England destinations deserve a spot on your travel bucket list, according to CNN.

Peek inside the new guest rooms at Newport Beach Hotel & Suites

CNN just dropped its inaugural list of America’s 10 best towns to visit and Providence, R.I. ranked No. 2 and Portland, Maine ranked No. 4. The top spot is Richmond, Virginia.

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

Editors asked CNN’s network of contributors for nominations and then narrowed down the list of favorites by evaluating each town’s sense of identity, attractions, food and beverage offerings, nightlife and cultural scene, and proximity to other interesting spots.

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

Providence, R.I. received high scores for its art, architecture, design, and food scene.

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

Portland Head Lighthouse, *– Maine Office of Tourism*

Portland, Maine received high scores for its food scene, coastal setting, and outdoor access.

“This historic harbor town offers some seriously up-to-date dining alongside classics reflecting Maine’s status as the US lobster capital,” wrote CNN. “The food scene here has put it squarely 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 booming craft beer scene and tons of opportunities to get out onto the water or into the woods. Strolling the bustling center offers a window onto centuries of maritime history and a Victorian-era rebirth.”

Check out CNN’s list of America’s best towns to visit.