A new release on “America’s best Small Towns” just highlighted two New England destinations, both under 2 hours from Boston.
The highlight, from Travel and Leisure, recognized Mystic, Connecticut as “America’s best small food town:”
This corner of Connecticut is practically overflowing with award-winning chefs, imaginative bartenders, hard-working farmers, knowledgeable servers, and expert fishermen. What’s more: They all intersect in Mystic because of the area’s fertile farmland and bountiful waters. In other words, it’s a perfect marriage of direct access to best-in-class seafood and farms, effectively joining sustainability and seasonality.
Where to eat in Mystic, Conencticut
Mystic is home to several James Beard-recognized restaurants, including The Port of Call and The Shipwright’s Daughter.
Right off the train stop, swing by Nana’s for amazing sourdough pizzas, pastries, and more. In downtown, you’ll find the cinematic icon, Mystic Pizza, and Sift Bake Shop.
Getting to Mystic from Boston
Luckily, this foodie-friendly city is just 90 minutes from Boston. There’s a direct Amtrak train from South Station to Mystic, with scenic coastal views. Make sure to stop by the equally charming village of Watch Hill, Rhode Island, just a quick drive from Mystic.
Methodology
The final list was curated and compiled by a well-traveled group of 10 editors. Laconia, New Hampshire, is the only other New England town on the list of “America’s Best Small Towns of 2026,” according to Travel + Leisure.
