According to a new poll from TravelMag.com, Newport and Providence have both been named among the 30 of the most charming cities in the USA.
The 30 cities on the list received the most votes after they surveyed a broad number of professional writers, photographers and travel industry specialists. Each voter was asked to select their favorite five small cities – with a population between 10,000 and 250,000 – drawing their selection from at least three different states. According to the US Census Bureau, as of 2019, there were at least 780 cities with a population of 50,000 people or more in the country, and many more above 10,000.
Here’s what they has to say about The City by the Sea and The Renaissance City.
Newport, RI
One of the oldest colonial cities in the US is Rhode Island’s charming Newport, founded in 1639. It’s importance through the ensuing centuries is reflected in the military installations like Fort Adams, built in 1799, and the numerous Gilded Age mansions that grace the city’s tree-lined streets in the south of the city. Highlights that are now open to the public include mansions (known colloquially, and cheekily, as ‘cottages’) belonging to the Vanderbilts (Marble House), and various other wealthy industrialists. Chateau-sur-Mer and The Breakers are both fine examples. Sailing is another popular pastime in Newport, with plenty of cruises available to visitors.
Providence, RI
Like many other East-coast cities on this list, Providence started life as one of the oldest European settlements in the United States. Its Puritan roots start in 1636 and the link between history and charm is palpable in many areas of the city, particularly the East Side near the Providence River, where you’ll find the Old State House (1762), the First Baptist Church in America (1638) and many other impressive old buildings, such as Fleur-de-lys Studio. Rhode Island School of Design’s Museum is well worth a visit for its excellent collection of fine art from around the world, including pieces from Andy Warhol, Monet and Picasso. You’ll also find the Ivy League’s Brown University in Providence.
Other notables on the list include Annapolis, Charleston, Ann Arbor, Ithaca, Knoxville, Napa, Palm Springs and Savannah.
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