New England Travel
They are in Connecticut and Vermont.
Those looking for a small-town artsy getaway in New England this year should head to Connecticut or Vermont, according to USA Today readers.
The publication released a list of the 10 best small town arts scenes in America on Wednesday, part of its 2025 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and Old Lyme, Conn., ranked No. 2, and Stowe, Vermont ranked No. 10. The No. 1 small town arts scene is in Vermillion, S.D.
“What each of these towns lacks in size, they make up for with museums, art galleries, performing arts, and busy event calendars,” USA Today wrote.
The Old Lyme Arts District is “a vibrant central village area with art galleries, live music and the prestigious Lyme Academy of Fine Arts,” the publication wrote.
Stowe, well known for its foliage and skiing, is “bursting with arts and culture,” according to USA Today.
“Galleries abound, while the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center is a hub of entertainment ranging from music and dance to theatrical and comedy performances,” wrote the publication.
For the 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards lists, USA Today travel experts select 20 nominees in topics from food to lodging, destinations to things to do. Then the publication asks readers to cast votes to determine the top 10.
Check out USA Today‘s list of the 10 best small town arts scenes in America.
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