Walking for wellness has never been more popular, fueled by the rise of “10,000 steps a day” trends and the buzz around “hot girl walks”. As wellness walks continue to trend, one company set out to discover the most charming and pedestrian-friendly spots in America to get those steps in.
A ranking of the top 100 main streets in small towns across the country was compiled specifically for wellness walks. While Boston is already known as one of the world’s most walkable major cities, locals seeking a small-town stroll can look beyond the city for fresh inspiration.
According to a recent study by Assisted Living, New England boasts some of the country’s most delightful main streets for wellness walks, from Stockbridge to Bar Harbor. The study assessed small towns nationwide and identified the most charming main streets across New England:
- Bar Harbor, Maine (#7)
- Montpelier, Vermont (#13)
- Brunswick, Maine (#14)
- Concord, Massachusetts (#27)
- Stockbridge, Massachusetts (#31)
- Vergennes, Vermont (#32)
- Dover, New Hampshire (#42)
- Chatham, Massachusetts (#54)
- Keene, New Hampshire (#57)
- Essex, Connecticut (#58)
- Kent, Connecticut (#60)
- Wickford Village (#63)
- East Greenwich, Rhode Island (#97)
Lake Placid, New York, claims the top spot on the list, recognized for its idyllic Main Street nestled between breathtaking mountains and the glimmering Mirror Lake. Situated in upstate New York, Lake Placid is approximately five hours from Boston and about three hours for those in the Berkshires.
For a nearby destination, Concord’s historic Main Street offers a quintessential small-town charm just 30 minutes from Boston by car or Commuter Rail. The street is filled with independent shops, manicured landscapes, and a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a Hallmark movie.