Small, Coastal Maine Town Named Among ‘Nicest’ Places in America

For a very long time, the people of Maine were thought of as always being nice. It didn't matter what town you visited, what city you dined in, or what small corner of the state you spent the night. You were bound to run into someone who is truly kind.

Perhaps the influx of tourism since the pandemic has left many people in Maine a little on edge. After all, we all still believe we're nice to the core, but a recent survey suggested that tourists may see us differently than we see ourselves.

If that really is the case, there's a small coastal town coming to the rescue. According to Readers Digest, Bristol has been named among the 'nicest' towns in America, and it's for a lot more than just the gorgeous scenery.

Readers Digest believes that Bristol has the nicest people in Maine to pair with lighthouses, old architecture and the smell of the ocean. When the town quadruples in size during the warmer months, it's no big deal. Everyone gets along with everyone.

That temperament has been tested over the years. Nearly two decades ago, a storm on Patriots Day left the area in disarray. Leaders in the town sprang to action, making sure their neighbors and friends had heat and supplies following the fury. That door-to-door care didn't go unnoticed.

Just last month, another major storm left buildings destroyed and landmarks badly damaged. Just like before, volunteers within the towns stepped forward to began repairs and ensure Bristol and all its small villages would be 'nice' once again for the summer.

Is Bristol the only Maine town that is truly 'nice'? Absolutely not. But for right now, it's standing a little taller than the others.