This Is The Most Charming Small Town In NJ, New Report Says

NEW JERSEY — A new report in the travel magazine Afar has named the most charming small towns across the nation — and Asbury Park is its pick for New Jersey.

The magazine chose Asbury Park for its "slew of stylish new hotels," adding that the once-declined beach community has been " slowly and steadily recapturing its old magic."

"Its boardwalk is thrumming once again, complete with a pinball machine museum and a retro beach bar with a popular dog-friendly Yappy Hour," the report said. "The Stone Pony, a divey music venue that launched the careers of Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, and its outdoor summer stage now hosts the likes of Carly Rae Jepsen and the Pixies."

Don't forget to have a slice of specialty sourdough pizza from Talula’s and stop by Glide Surf Co., which sells custom surfboards and wet suits, the magazine suggests.

Other towns listed in the report include Hudson in New York, North Adams in Massachusetts, New Hope in Pennsylvania, and Los Olivos in California.

For the list, Afar said it defined a small town as a place with around 25,000 people or fewer. The pick for each state was chosen based on a unique attraction or characteristic to draw in visitors – whether it’s “singular streets or spectacular outdoor adventure opportunities,” according to Afar.

For example, the standout Maine small town, Belfast, was chosen for its “palpable hippie-meets-hipster energy,” while Waterbury, Vermont, got a nod for being the home of the Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory.

Meanwhile, ski towns (and ski-town "vibes") made several appearances on the list — including Whitefish in Montana and Leadville in Colorado, while Wyoming, Georgia, and South Carolina all featured towns with deep histories: Cody, Dahlonega, and Beaufort, respectively.

Looking to pick up a delicious block of cheese? The list has you covered there, too, suggesting a visit to Harman’s Cheese and Country Store in Sugar Hill, New Hampshire, for its “beloved” white cheddar.

Read the full report in Afar.