One of the great things about New England is how many cool towns and small cities we have.

No matter where you are, you don't have to go far to find a cool place to hang out.  New England has everything from beach towns to mountain villages, to weathered towns located on remote islands.

Maine is no exception to this rule.

The Coolest Small Cities in the United States

A recent article on the Thrillist website listed some of the coolest small cities in the United States.

The article explains that they are defining a 'small city' as a municipality that has a population of less than 100,000 people.  It appears that the article is intended to point out the fact that these small cities are the perfect mix of big-city amenities and small-town affordability.

One of the Coolest Cities in America is Located in Maine

It really should not surprise anyone that one of the New England cities listed by the Thrillist article was Portland, Maine.

The article says that Portland is:

rising in the ranks as a go-to for weekenders from cities like New York and Boston, not just for its historic character (think ivy-draped brick facades and cobblestone lanes), but because it’s just so damn cool. Like, really, really cool. The walkable downtown boasts dog-friendly breweries, boutique wineries, fancy donuts, industrial-chic restaurants, and food trucks that serve as outposts of those industrial-chic restaurants.

The author suggests that one of the must-visit restaurants in Portland is Duckfat.  The reason they chose Duckfat?  The fries, of course!  If you know, you know.

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The author also suggests that visitors and new residents check out a few of Portland's breweries, including Allagash Brewing Company.

What is your opinion on Portland making the list?  Do you agree?  Why or why not?

Check out the entire list of the coolest small towns in the United States HERE.

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