All of New England’s biggest urban centers boast smaller city neighborhoods that stand for their compact combination of character, attractions, and dining. Here are five of our favorite New England city neighborhoods.
By Yankee Magazine
May 01 2024
In Portland’s Munjoy Hill neighborhood, take in the view from the Portland Observatory, the only remaining historic maritime signal station in the United States.
Photo Credit : Michael D. WilsonBy Kevin Koczwara
New England is home to many fine big cities that draw oodles of visitors, but each one is also home to smaller city neighborhoods that stand out for their character, style, attractions, and restaurants. Hoping to experience the best neighborhood feel in an otherwise big city? Here are some of our favorite city neighborhoods in New England.
Maine’s biggest city has long been seen as a foodie beacon, and the Munjoy Hill/East End neighborhood more than upholds that reputation with places like Jing Yan Tavern, Cong Tu Bot, and the Front Room. In warm weather, hungry crowds head to the Eastern Promenade, whose views of Casco Bay are the backdrop for some of the city’s best food trucks. You’ll also take in great views from the top of the Portland Observatory.
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Below Brown University on the East Side sits Fox Point, a city neighborhood that still feels intimate, even a touch secluded. It’s made for walking and biking, or just hanging out in parks along the harbor. Narragansett Brewery, New England’s oldest, makes its home here, while Wickenden Street invites browsing amid a trove of antiques and collectibles shops.
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At just 4.4 square miles, Jamaica Plain is packed with attractions that make life special. “JP” is popular with both locals and visitors for its many green spaces, including the Harvard-owned Arnold Arboretum. There’s also brewing stalwart Sam Adams; creative eateries like Tres Gatos, a tapas bar that’s also a book and record store; and the jewel-like Jamaica Pond, with its rowboat and sailboat rentals.
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The Old North End (or O.N.E.) is a residential neighborhood north of bustling Church Street Marketplace and adjacent to UVM. Among its enticements are Battery Park, with its fine lake vistas; Intervale’s gardens and trails; the youth theater Very Merry Theatre; and funky stores like Junktiques, which draws artists and even celebrates the art of bartering.
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While the canal itself was covered up long ago, residents of the Canal District know their neighborhood features some of Worcester’s best hidden gems, alongside heavy hitters like the Worcester Ice Center and Polar Park, home of the city’s Red Sox affiliate. The Worcester Public Market, meanwhile, would be a star attraction anywhere.