FRENCHTOWN BOROUGH, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Frenchtown has been named the Best Small Arts + Culture Town in the United States for 2026 by Travel + Leisure, earning national recognition for its arts scene, independent businesses, downtown and connection to the Delaware River.
The Hunterdon County borough received the honor as part of Travel + Leisure’s annual “America’s Best Small Towns” list. The recognition was highlighted in a feature published Aug. 18.
The publication described 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.
Hunterdon County Commissioner Susan Soloway, liaison to Economic Development and Tourism, said the recognition highlights many of the qualities that make Frenchtown and the county a 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 developed through the contributions of residents, 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 several Frenchtown destinations, including ArtYard, the National Hotel, FiNNBAR, Frenchtown Bookshop, Wild Fern Brewing and the Frenchtown Farmers Market, along with the borough’s galleries, shops and studios.
The feature also highlighted the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath and opportunities for biking, walking and exploring the Delaware River.
According to the publication, Frenchtown’s cultural presence continues to grow, with ArtYard entering its second decade as an artist-run campus, the inaugural Frenchtown Literary Festival and more than two decades of community involvement surrounding the annual Riverfest celebration.
The recognition comes as Hunterdon County continues efforts to promote its small towns, outdoor recreation, locally owned businesses, arts and cultural destinations and agritourism attractions.
“National recognition like this introduces new visitors to Frenchtown and, in turn, to everything Hunterdon County has to offer,” Soloway said. “We are proud to celebrate Frenchtown and the many local businesses, artists, organizations, and residents who contribute to its unique identity.”
County officials said the recognition adds to Hunterdon County’s reputation as a destination for small towns, locally owned businesses, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, history, agriculture and the natural scenery of the Delaware River Valley.
