Readers Say
“It’s a beautiful town on the harbor.”
World Atlas released a list of eight underrated towns in Massachusetts, so we asked Boston.com readers which is the most underrated town of all and two towns tied for the top honor.
Nearly 150 readers responded to our informal poll and Rockport and Hingham were both deemed the most underrated town on the World Atlas list, receiving 10% of votes each. The towns on the list are Deerfield, Great Barrington, Hingham, Ipswich, North Adams, Orleans, Rockport, and Shelburne Falls.
“Rockport offers it all — nature, culture, entertainment, and a diverse food/drink scene. AND, you can take the T directly to North Station,” wrote JB from Hamilton.
About Hingham, Heather K. (who lives there) wrote, “It’s a beautiful town on the harbor. Quaint historic homes. Great restaurants & shops in the Shipyard, the Square & Derby Street shops. Taking the commuter boat from Hingham to Boston is a lovely way to commute.”
However, 41% of readers picked towns that didn’t make the World Atlas list at all.
The following nine destinations not on the World Atlas list are also underrated, say readers: Chelsea, Florida, Hingham, Hull, Maynard, Newburyport, Orleans, Plymouth, and Randolph.
“Newburyport is a gem. The river, the ocean, nature, history, great eats, quaint shops,” wrote Adam from North Attleboro.
About Plymouth, Jim from Charlestown wrote, “Most access to the outdoors & ocean in eastern MA, vibrant downtown. It’s like all of the north and south shore, in one town.”
What’s the most underrated town in Massachusetts?
Responses have been lightly edited for clarity.
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