Frenchtown Named Best Small Arts & Culture Town In America

FRENCHTOWN, N.J. — Travel + Leisure has named Frenchtown the Best Small Arts + Culture Town in the United States for 2026 for its thriving arts and cultural community, independent businesses, vibrant downtown, and Delaware River character.

The recognition is part of Travel + Leisure's annual "America's Best Small Towns" list and was highlighted in a feature published August 18. The publication describes Frenchtown as a creative riverside community offering world-class arts programming, a walkable downtown filled with independent businesses, and access to outdoor recreation along the Delaware River.

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Hunterdon County Commissioner Susan Soloway, liaison to Economic Development and Tourism, said the national recognition highlights many of the qualities that make Frenchtown — and Hunterdon County as a whole — a distinctive destination for visitors.

"Frenchtown is a wonderful example of what makes Hunterdon County such a special place to visit," said Commissioner Soloway. "Its arts community, independent businesses, restaurants, historic character, and connection to the Delaware River have created a destination that feels authentic and welcoming. This recognition from Travel + Leisure is a tremendous reflection of the people and businesses that have built that community."

Frenchtown Mayor Brad Myhre said the recognition is particularly meaningful because the community's character has grown organically through the contributions of residents, local businesses, artists, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers.

"As Mayor, I could not be prouder to see Frenchtown recognized nationally for something our residents have long known — this is an incredibly special community," said Mayor Myhre. "What makes Frenchtown unique cannot be traced to any one business, organization, or attraction. It comes from the collective energy of our artists, entrepreneurs, small business owners, volunteers, and residents who care deeply about this town and have worked to preserve its character while allowing it to grow and evolve. We are proud to welcome visitors from across the region and the country to experience everything Frenchtown has to offer."

Travel + Leisure highlighted numerous Frenchtown destinations, including ArtYard, the National Hotel, FiNNBAR, Frenchtown Bookshop, Wild Fern Brewing, the Frenchtown Farmers Market, and the community's galleries, shops, and studios. The feature also points to the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath and opportunities for biking, walking, and exploring the Delaware River.

The publication noted that Frenchtown's cultural presence continues to grow, highlighting ArtYard's second decade as an artist-run campus, the inaugural Frenchtown Literary Festival, and more than two decades of community spirit surrounding the annual Riverfest celebration.