Several Southeastern CT Towns Make List Of 'Most Enchanting'

MYSTIC, CT — With plenty of history, a scenic coastline, and some of the country's most festive Christmas towns, Connecticut has plenty in its favor. It also has a wealth of enchanting small towns, including one that inspired the quintessentially quaint Stars Hollow in "Gilmore Girls."

House Beautiful has ranked the 30 top small towns in the state, and southeastern Connecticut is well represented on the list.

Stonington is ranked second; Mystic is ranked fourth; Niantic is 13th; and Old Lyme is 19th.

House Beautiful refers to Stonington as a "charming seaside village" known for "its mile-long beaches, historic seaside homes, and eclectic shops and boutiques."

Mystic is "truly beloved" and is "teeming with classic New England aesthetic, charming shops, and two of Connecticut's most-visited attractions: the Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium." It's also established itself as a "foodie haven," according to House Beautiful.

Niantic is perfect for those who love fishing and boating and is a quick cruise away from several desirable locations.

Old Lyme is famous for its flourishing artists' community and "was at the center of the American Impressionism art movement in the early 1900s."

What southeastern Connecticut doesn't have is the town that inspired Stars Hollow — that's Washington in western Connecticut.

Check out "The 30 Best Small Towns in Connecticut, Including the One That Inspired Stars Hollow" at House Beautiful.