Nov. 14, 2026, 5:06 a.m. ET
Have an interest in the arts?
This New Jersey town has been included on Travel + Leisure’s list of America’s Best Small Towns of 2026, in the arts category.
The travel media website identified specific towns with family-run ice cream stands, mom-and-pop restaurants, galleries spotlighting local artists, trails to hidden-gem lakes and postcard-perfect beaches, the report stated.
In order to qualify as one of America’s Best Small Towns, a town must be located in the United States and have a full-time population of fewer than 30,000 residents, according to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau data.
Out of the 10 small towns selected, one in the Garden State was named the best arts and culture town in America.
Below is why writers chose Frenchtown for this category.
Best Small Arts + Culture Town
Frenchtown, Hunterdon County
“Frenchtown pairs world-class arts programming with charming streets, independent shops, and a community that prizes creativity over convention.”
Frenchtown’s artist-run campus, ArtYard, entered its second decade of hosting world-class guests. Summer through fall also marked the first-ever Frenchtown Literary Festival. In September, Riverfest celebrated more than 20 years of community spirit. And Frenchtown’s restaurant scene proves it can punch above its small-town weight. Visitors can stroll along Bridge and Race streets to admire the Victorian architecture and eclectic stores.
- Where to stay: Settle in at The National Hotel, Frenchtown’s historic inn, which has been revived as a modern, comfort-first stay, with an Asian-fusion restaurant and live music venue all under one roof.
- Where to eat: Dine at globally inspired bistro FiNNBAR for seasonal fare and creative cocktails.
- Things to do: Catch The Mix, a recurring two-day outdoor arts gathering held several times a year, where artists and makers exhibit their work alongside open studios, live demonstrations and family-friendly programming.
America’s Best Small Towns of 2026
- Best Small Beach Town: Pismo Beach, California
- Best Small Mountain Town: Hood River, Oregon
- Best Small Lake Town: Laconia, New Hampshire
- Best Small Desert Town: Ely, Nevada
- Best Small Arts + Culture Town: Frenchtown, New Jersey
- Best Small Food Town: Mystic, Connecticut
- Best Small Spa + Wellness Town: Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
- Best Small Retirement Town: Georgetown, South Carolina
- Best Small College Town: Oxford, Mississippi
- Best Small Sports Town: Kohler, Wisconsin