Camden, Maine, Named One of America’s Most Beautiful Towns

This region boasts picturesque towns, breathtaking scenery, and some of the kindest people you’ll ever meet. It truly captures the heart and soul of what makes Maine so special. Honestly, I can’t figure out why I haven’t moved there yet...well, other than the commute to Portland.

So, it’s no wonder that one of Midcoast Maine’s standout towns is now gaining national recognition.

Does Maine Have One of the Most Beautiful Towns in America?

In fact, one of those perfect towns was recently named one of the most beautiful towns in America by the popular travel site Travel + Leisure. The town was one of just 20 selected, a truly impressive honor. So, which village got the nod? That would be Camden.

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It’s not only a popular destination for both Mainers and tourists, but also a place I genuinely love to visit. Heck, I even enjoy just taking a drive through the village.

Camden is unquestionably gorgeous. The town sits right on the coast of Penobscot Bay and boasts a stunning harbor filled with old schooners, fishing boats, and windjammers. The waterfront is lined with incredible restaurants that will blow you away with their flavor.

Just above the waterfront is the main drag, which perfectly encapsulates everything to love about a small Maine village. The main street is always bustling with life—and for good reason. It’s a smorgasbord of small shops, charming inns, and cozy eateries.

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Speaking of inns, Camden might just be Maine’s unofficial capital of bed and breakfasts. It seems like every large, historic house has been converted into a charming B&B—including an actual castle you can stay in. Honestly, it makes me want to retire to Camden and open one myself.

Camden Hills State Park is One of Maine's Best Parks

As wonderful as all of that is, we haven’t even gotten to the best part: the state park. Just minutes from downtown is the entrance to Camden Hills State Park, home to Mount Battie. From the summit, you get breathtaking views of the town and the bay.

The hike to the top is relatively easy, but there’s also an auto road in case hiking isn’t in the cards. Let’s be real, sometimes you just don’t have the time (or the energy), so having a driving option is always a plus.

The park is much more than just the mountain, though. It spans nearly 6,000 acres of pure Maine bliss and is open year-round for all the activities you love, like camping, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Honestly, Travel + Leisure nailed it with this selection. While there are many charming and underrated towns in Maine (especially along the coast), nothing quite compares to this special little place. It truly represents everything that makes Maine so wonderful.

This is great publicity for Camden, a town that continues to grow in popularity with both Mainers and tourists alike. And now, all I want to do is visit again.