Marianne LaBarge City Councilor | Ward 6 | Northampton, MA

WARD 6

         CITY COUNCILOR

MARIANNE LABARGE
Text Box: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 27, 2025 City of Northampton Named One of “America’s Best Towns to Visit” by CNN NORTHAMPTON, MA – The international news network CNN has named Northampton the No. 8 pick on its newly released list of “America’s Best Towns to Visit, 2025.” The feature, written by CNN reporter Jeanne Bonner, highlights the city's vibrant downtown, local flavor, inclusive culture, and independent spirit. CNN evaluated hundreds of communities across the country, selecting just ten based on criteria including cultural life, dining, nightlife, diversity, identity, and overall charm. Bonner writes that “Northampton is No. 8 thanks to its lively downtown, diversity, local flavors and independent spirit,” noting the city’s unique blend of New England charm and cosmopolitan sensibility.  They especially enjoyed the city’s unofficial motto by noting that Northampton appreciates strong women — and strong coffee. Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra responded to the recognition:  “It’s always rewarding when others see what makes Northampton special. This is a community full of creativity, passion, and welcoming people—and it shows in our culture, our businesses, and our public spaces. We’re proud to be a place that both visitors and residents love to explore. I enthusiastically thank CNN for celebrating us in this very select list and welcome all to come enjoy Northampton!” The whole story about Northampton can be found here ( https://www.cnn.com/travel/northampton-massachusetts-best-towns-america-2025 ).   The full list and more details are available to view and link to here ( https://www.cnn.com/travel/2025-america-best-towns-to-visit ).    This release is attached and can be found on the city's web page here ( https://northamptonma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/31374/CNN-Names-Northampton-a-Best-Town-to-Visit---June-27-2025 ). For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 413-587-1249 or mayor@northamptonma.gov.   -- Office of Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra City of Northampton 210 Main Street, Room 12 Northampton MA 01060 413-587-1249 phone 413-587-1275 fax www.northamptonma.gov