Coolest small towns

I came across this article about a Budget Traveler list of the ten coolest small towns in America. First of all, the Sun-Times’ article has an entirely different list than Budget Traveler itself. Second, it’s worth noting that the BT list includes two communities in New York (both downstate) and one in Vermont; the S-T article puts darkhorse Owego (near Binghamton along the Susquehanna) in the top spot.

The bigger question is, of course, what makes a small town cool? Architecture? Its natural surroundings? Arts? Dining options? A Lifesaver sculpture in its town park? here’s how Budget Traveler puts it:

First, your town must have a population under 10,000—we’re talking small towns, not big cities. It’s also got to be on the upswing, a place that’s beginning to draw attention—and new residents—because of the quality of life, arts and restaurant scene, or proximity to nature. And cool doesn’t mean quaint. We want towns with an edge, so think avant-garde galleries, not country stores.

So quibble away. By those standards, what’s the North Country’s coolest town? Or do you throw out those standards and pick others? What’s your top 10 list for coolest towns in the North Country?

Tops on my list right now? Brasher Falls.