Two New Jersey Destinations Reach Final Stage of Nationwide “Favorite Small Town” Contest

Two New Jersey towns were named finalists in a popular national award that honors America’s small towns’ charm, culture, and community spirit. Lambertville and Wildwood are in Parade Magazine’s Northeast regional “America’s Favorite Small Towns” competition.

The program celebrates villages under 250,000 with unique histories, stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and inviting locals. Communities across the US are nominated and evaluated for their unique traits as tourist and resident destinations.

The Delaware River town of Lambertville is famous for its history and arts scene. The town has Victorian and Federal-era row homes and tree-lined streets. The town’s exterior hasn’t changed much since the 19th century, preserving its historic charm that draws people from around the region.

Local authorities say the honor shows generations of community pride. Lambertville’s national recognition is noteworthy to Hunterdon County Commissioner Director John E. Lanza, who lives there. The distinction recognizes Lambertville’s stunning beauty and strong community, he says.

Lambertville’s charm and culture have been recognized nationally. HGTV named the town one of the “50 Most Charming Small Towns in America” and USA TODAY named it one of the “10 Best Small Towns in the Northeast”. Lambertville’s commitment to education and community resources was recognized when the Lambertville Free Public Library was a finalist for the National Medal for Museum and Library Service.

Wildwood, further south down the shore, has a distinct but appealing individuality. The beachfront city on the New Jersey shore has long been a popular summer vacation. The colorful boardwalk with classic amusement rides, arcades, food kiosks, and entertainment attracts families and tourists in the summer. Wide sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean.

Wildwood’s reputation hinges on its bustling boardwalk culture. Visitors can enjoy amusement rides, activities, and local stores and restaurants providing saltwater taffy. Beach umbrellas, surfers, families, and volleyball players cover the shoreline in summer.

Seasonal events keep visitors coming back to the town. Summer concerts, festivals, and family-friendly activities make the shore vibrant. Year-round residents run shops, eateries, and marinas to keep the town busy beyond peak visitor season.

Natural settings enhance the town’s charm. Marshlands, rivers, and coastal dunes lie inland from the boardwalk, offering a quieter Jersey Shore experience.

Local tourist officials believe the finalist status reflects the community’s uniqueness. Louis M. Belasco, executive director of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority, said the town is delighted to be among the nation’s most famous little towns. Belasco said the award recognizes Wildwood’s dynamic tourism culture and inviting atmosphere.

The America’s Favorite Small Towns competition honors diverse and spiritful American towns. Finalists are chosen by region before competing nationally. Towns that advance frequently gain tourism and national visibility.

Regional competition winners will be revealed June 1. On June 12, the nationwide winner will be announced. The winning town will get a special recognition badge, broad advertising throughout Parade’s print and digital channels, and countrywide media exposure that can boost community awareness.

Lambertville and Wildwood’s finalist status underlines their strengths. Whether through ancient architecture and arts culture or booming beach tourism and entertainment, the two towns symbolize different facets of New Jersey’s identity while sharing the same communal pride that defines many of America’s treasured small towns.