Maine and the other states in New England are often thought to be full of cute, quaint towns where everyone knows their neighbor and things are easy and simple. While we’d love that to be true, the reality is that most of Maine is just like any other place. We’ve got stress and big-box retailers! But, there’s certainly some truth to this. Maine does have some of the best small towns and this list has a few great ones.

1. Allagash, Aroostook County

While we imagine that the nearly 250 residents who call Allagash home do so to be near the brewery of the same name, it probably has more to do with the beauty and peacefulness. If this way of life sounds good to you, make sure you attend the next Moosetowner Day. Those wishing to be honorary Moosetowners will be dunked in the Allagash River, earning a certificate and Moosetowner hat!

2. Burlington, Penobscot County

Originally known as "Hurd's Ridge" in honor of the town's first non-native settler, this town of just under 400 people is as pretty as a picture. Its name changed to Burlington when it was incorporated in 1832.

3. Mount Chase, Penobscot County

This little town is home to Mt. Chase, Upper Shin Pond and Lower Shin Pond making it ideal for outdoor-lovers. The teensy town has about 200 residents and there's plenty of peace and quiet to be found here.

4. Moose River, Somerset County

If you were a cattle driver back in the 1820a this is a town you might have known well. The first non-native settler was Capt. Samuel Holden and he operated an inn in the town that served cattle drivers working between Boston and Quebec. Today the population is about 200 people and it's a beauty to see.

5. Dyer Brook, Aroostook County

You'll find about 200 people here, which makes it about as small as any of the others on this list. But! We love that the population is made up of around 100 families!

6. Roque Bluffs, Washington County

If your goal is to be surrounded by nature and have plenty of outdoor activities at your fingertips this is the place for you. Join the nearly 300 other residents who appreciate that Roque Bluffs State Park is their neighbor!

7. Hamlin, Aroostook County

This small town of about 200 people sits on the Canadian border making it one that a lot of people have never even heard of. It's named after Vice President Hannibal Hamlin. In addition to being named after a political figure and being a jumping off point for Canada, it also happens to be the closest place in mainland America to Europe.

8. Masardis, Aroostook County

The population of about 250 certainly makes it qualify as a small town, but it's the feel of things here that really make it feel like Maine. Early mornings in The County are already pretty, but the sunrises across a dewy field in Masardis can't be beat.

9. Gilead, Oxford County

Incorporated as a town in 1804, this little spot has just 200 residents. Its name comes from the Balm of Gilead trees that grew in the town center in its early days, but today it's just as tree-filled and beautiful as it was back then.

10. Patten, Penobscot County

While one of the largest on this list at about 1,000 residents, we just couldn't leave it off because it's so full of history! The town sits near some large rivers and streams which led it to become a mill town by the 1800s. Maine's lumber industry took off here making it an important cultural hub in the area that now includes Houlton and those North of Lincoln.

What are some of your favorite small Maine towns? Let us know in the comments so we can check them out. And be sure to leave any tips for must-see things!

Maine's small towns always have something to offer, including some great food. This tiny town in Maine has the most mouthwatering restaurant!