best travel places in new england

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Best weekend getaways in new england.

Known for its historical roots, rugged landscape, savory seafood and rich sports culture, New England is home to a variety of vacation destinations. But with so many picture-perfect towns spread from the coast to the mountains, it's hard to decide where to head for a weekend getaway. That's why U.S. News took into account sights, culture, food and more to determine the best weekend getaways in New England. Cast your vote below to help us decide next year's ranking. Considering a fall trip to New England? Read our top travel tips »

Newport, RI

Portland, me, martha's vineyard, acadia national park, kennebunkport, white mountains, block island, the berkshires, sugarloaf mountain.

Visitors heading to Newport, Rhode Island, will be treated to breathtaking coastal vistas, glamorous seaside homes and top-notch sailing. Soak up some sun at Easton's Beach, or enjoy the sound of crashing waves while strolling the scenic Cliff Walk. If you'd rather treat yourself during your trip, hit up Thames Street, a bustling strip with delicious eateries, small boutiques and historic Colonial structures. Don't forget to save time for a tour (or two) of Newport's elaborate mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House.

An ideal destination for foodies and culture hounds, Portland, Maine, is filled with award-winning restaurants, museums, breweries, art galleries, boutiques and more. Spend some time wandering the cobblestone streets of the historical Old Port, where boats line the harbor and seafood is aplenty. Or, venture southeast of the city to Cape Elizabeth to snap a picture of the iconic Portland Head Light – one of the most photographed lighthouses in America – and hike or picnic in Fort Williams Park.

A popular summertime island retreat for New Englanders and politicians alike, Martha's Vineyard appeals to all types of travelers. Fly or take the ferry from the mainland to explore the Massachusetts island's six towns and numerous beaches. Don't miss the colorful gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, the fresh seafood in the village of Menemsha or the boutiques in Vineyard Haven. While the island's eastern side is walkable, it's best to take a bus or car to the dramatic Aquinnah Cliffs on the more rugged western side.

Many pass through Bar Harbor on their way to Acadia National Park , but this charming seaside town is definitely worth a stop. Located on Maine's Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is bursting with locally owned boutiques, fresh seafood restaurants and gorgeous coastal views. Walk the scenic Shore Path for views of Frenchman Bay and multimillion-dollar mansions, or take a ride on a lobster boat to learn about the craft firsthand. While the town is popular in summer, its smaller crowds and vibrant foliage in autumn make it equally appealing during the shoulder season.

For a quintessential New England getaway, head to this Massachusetts peninsula known for its laid-back vibe. Vacationers can bask in the sun somewhere along Cape Cod National Seashore's 40 miles of sand before digging into a plate of fried clams or retreating to a quaint bed-and-breakfast . When planning your visit, keep in mind that each Cape Cod town is a little different. You'll find upscale shops in Chatham, historical landmarks in Sandwich, sky-high sand dunes in Wellfleet and a thriving LGBTQ community in Provincetown. Cape Cod's ample restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and ocean views are enough to keep you busy for days.

In the mood for an adventure? This more than 47,000-acre national park in Maine, one of the state's top attractions , is perfect for hiking, biking and rock climbing, among other outdoor activities. Your top priority should be to hike 1,530-foot-tall Cadillac Mountain – it's the first spot in the country to catch a sunrise from October to March. If you're not a fan of hiking, rent a car and make the drive along the 27-mile Park Loop Road. You'll pass the dramatic edge of Otter Cliffs and the cave at Thunder Hole, as well as other wonders visible from the road's pull-off observation areas.

The largest city in New England is fairly compact and walkable – perfect for sightseeing in just a few days. History buffs can follow the Freedom Trail to learn about the American Revolution before stopping for a beer at the historic Bell in Hand Tavern. Foodies can get a taste of Italy in the North End or indulge in some fresh oysters and clam chowder in the Seaport District. Meanwhile, fashionistas can browse the many shops on Newbury Street, and souvenir hunters can visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace. No matter your interests, your trip to Boston would not be complete without visiting Fenway Park.

Despite its small size, Nantucket has no shortage of activities. Board a ferry from Cape Cod or fly into the island's airport to enjoy a unique Massachusetts vacation. Visit Cisco Brewers for private brewery, vineyard and distillery tours, or simply enjoy the food trucks and live music. While Nantucket is a walkable island, many visitors enjoy renting bikes or mopeds to explore the area, especially tiny Siasconset Village. You'll want to also save time for watching the sunset at Madaket Beach on the island's west coast.

It doesn't get more relaxing than Kennebunkport, Maine. You can lay on sandy beaches, stroll through quaint boutiques and sample local specialties like lobster rolls, oysters and blueberry pies. There are also plenty of unique ways to see the town, including on foot during a food tour, by boat while on a lobster boat tour and by trolley with Intown Trolley. Plus, you can stop along the way to take pictures of Walker's Point – the Bush family compound. Keep your eyes peeled for other famous faces, as Kennebunkport is a popular celebrity vacation destination.

Although Stowe's small-town charm and dramatic vistas make it a beautiful destination year-round, snow lovers won't want to miss this Vermont retreat in all its winter glory. Stowe is dubbed the "Ski Capital of the East," but this New England hideaway is also ideal for snowboarding, snowshoeing and dog sledding. If you'd rather visit during the warmer months, consider hiking the Stowe Recreation Path or driving the Auto Toll Road to the top of Mount Mansfield for unbeatable views of the Adirondack Mountains. Whichever season you prefer, fans of "The Sound of Music" can't miss a visit to Stowe's Trapp Family Lodge.

If historic walking tours, charming bistros and tax-free shopping describe your ideal New England weekend, book your ticket to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, today. Take a narrated boat tour of the Isles of Shoals, or spend the day exploring Market Square, the gem of downtown Portsmouth. For a breath of fresh air, sink your toes in the sand at nearby Wallis Sands State Beach or stroll through the gardens at Prescott Park. Time your visit for summer to attend the Prescott Park Arts Festival, which transforms this beautiful green space into a vibrant outdoor performance venue.

Whether you're looking for a quiet mountain hideaway or an activity-filled weekend, potential abounds in the White Mountains. Designated as a protected national forest, the White Mountains cover parts of New Hampshire and Maine. Take the scenic route along the Kancamagus Highway, and consider stopping at a campground along the way. If you're visiting in summer, hike, drive or take the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the summit of its namesake for spectacular views. In winter, shred powder on some of the best ski slopes in New England before curling up with a cup of hot cocoa at a bed-and-breakfast.

Walk any direction on Block Island and you'll end up at a free public beach. This oasis off the southern coast of Rhode Island features 17 miles of shoreline, as well as old-fashioned cottages and two historical lighthouses. Take in sweeping ocean views from Mohegan Bluffs, or look for animals at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. If you want an adrenaline rush, try snorkeling in the island's crystal-clear waters, biking around its picturesque perimeter or hiking its Clayhead Trail. A quick ferry ride from the mainland will take you to Block Island, making it an easy weekend retreat.

The rolling mountains of the Berkshires attract everyone from artists to nature lovers to city dwellers looking for an escape. This region of western Massachusetts has long been a culture and history hub. Charming towns like Great Barrington and North Adams draw visitors with their quaint main streets and historic homes. The town of Lenox is home to the famous Tanglewood concert venue, while the town of Pittsfield boasts many theaters and art galleries. You'll find a variety of festivals to attend in summer, vivid foliage in fall and plenty of skiing in winter.

Situated in western Maine's Carrabassett Valley, Sugarloaf Mountain has a lot to offer travelers looking for an exciting weekend getaway in New England. In winter, enjoy a range of cold-weather activities – including cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing and more – at the mountain's namesake ski resort. In summer, take advantage of the warmer temperatures by mountain biking, zip lining or hiking sections of the famous Appalachian Trail.

About 20 miles northeast of Boston, this Massachusetts town is best known for the witch trials of the late 17th century, which you can learn all about on a historical walking tour. For an even bigger dose of local culture, visit in October when the town hosts Halloween-themed events all month long. You'd also be remiss to skip top sights like the Peabody Essex Museum and The House of the Seven Gables, the setting of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 1851 novel of the same name.

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20 Best Weekend Getaways in New England

From charming small towns to mountain escapes, these are the best places in New England for a weekend trip.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

With prettier-than-a-picture countrysides, cliff-lined coasts under the watchful beams of centuries-old lighthouses, and countless small towns to stumble upon, New England is a region that merits a lifetime of getaways, weekend or otherwise. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape from the city or a romantic trip, here are 20 of the best weekend getaways in New England.

Block Island, Rhode Island

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With its towering bluffs, plains filled with native shrubs, and grand Victorian-style hotel , Block Island looks like it could really be in England. The cedar-shingled saltbox houses are what clue you back to the fact that we’re in New England, not some wind-swept corner of the U.K. Located 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, this quintessential seaside getaway is just as much about cruising down country lanes and walking through open heathland as it is visiting the beach.

Mad River Valley, Vermont

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Below the famous Sugarbush and Mad River Glen ski areas, the Mad River Valley is a particularly pretty nook of Vermont. And that’s on top of a surprisingly glam history (Sugarbush was once dubbed “Mascara Mountain” by Vogue due to all the fashionable model types frequenting its slopes). The skiing’s still good around these parts, but there’s also fun off-the-slopes stuff like mountain biking, farm stand shopping, and summer concerts.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

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Reverence for this 50-square-mile fleck off the coast of Massachusetts runs deep, especially when it comes to summer getaways. But forget the cars and chain restaurants that clog your typical beach scene. Instead, hop on a bike or island shuttle to visit historic lighthouses (the still-in-use Brant Point dates back to 1746!), grand homes built for whaling captains, and laid-back beaches. Refuel every few hours with a lobster roll or perfectly prepared bay scallops before spending the night at a waterfront resort like the White Elephant Nantucket .

Newport, Rhode Island

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Fans of HBO’s Gilded Age owe themselves a trip to Newport, the summer vacay spot of choice for the late-19th-century elite. Take a stroll down the Cliff Walk to see Newport’s lavish mansions on one side and the Atlantic Ocean crashing against rocks on the other. The 3.5-mile path works up an appetite, so you’ll be ready to feast like a Vanderbilt: do the (BYOB!) brunch at Cru Cafe or go big with lobster mac ‘n’ cheese at local landmark, Brick Alley Pub.

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

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City folk looking for a slow pace and gorgeous scenic views find lots (and lots) to love in Sugar Hill. The sight of brilliant fall colors or fields blanketed in deep purple lupines — set against New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountains — is like a massage for your optic nerves. At Harman’s Cheese & Country Store, scoop up crackers and a hunk of aged cheddar to stash in your pack before hiking to Bridal Veil Falls (via the family-friendly Coppermine Trail) or summiting Mount Lafayette (Skookumchuck Trail is a toughie, but it’s well rated by hikers). 

Camden, Maine

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Often called one of the most beautiful small towns in the U.S. , Camden is a popular filming location for TV shows and Hollywood films. After enjoying a big bowl of haddock chowder on the harbor, peep the handsome Queen Anne-style houses in the historic district or make your way up to the top of Mount Battie, where the view inspired Maine native Edna St. Vincent Millay to write one of her finest poems. And remember, it’s not a trip to Maine without some quality antiquing: peruse the treasures inside Antiques at 10 Mechanic.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

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Think of it this way: getting there is half the fun. Sure, the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard, sister island to Nantucket, can be a bit of a test for landlubbers, but once you disembark, you’ll find a treasure trove of seaside villages, bike paths, and A+ lobster rolls. First stop: Waterside Market, where yummy breakfast sandwiches are served all day (or opt for lobster salad on brioche straight out of the gate), then grab a cab or bike over to Oak Bluffs for beach time and frozen drinks at Nancy’s. Spend a day in pristine little Edgartown, with its indie shops (Edgartown Books is a real treat, as is the hidden cafe behind it), raw bars, Greek Revival mansions, and charming boutique hotels like Faraway Martha's Vineyard .

Lakes Region, New Hampshire

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Woods, rocky summits, and hundreds of lakes and ponds set the scene for this ridiculously pretty area surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire's largest lake. Set in the White Mountain foothills, the region seduces leaf-peepers, walkers, boaters, cyclists, and off-roaders in search of abundant outdoor activities.

It’d be a shame not to get on the water in the warmer months, so hop aboard one of M/S Mount Washington ’s daily scenic cruises for a mimosa and postcard-worthy views of the surrounding mountains. Hikers have 28 miles of trails to explore at Castle in the Clouds and boundless views to enjoy at the top of Belknap Mountain, the highest peak in the area.

Woodstock, Vermont

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Dotted with old covered bridges, quaint cafes, and Victorian homes, Woodstock is the epitome of an idyllic New England town. At Billings Farm and Museum, say hi to the Jersey cows and draft horses, enjoy a maple sundae, and grab some smoked cheddar to go (it’ll make a tasty trail snack). Prue and Paul fans: Hop over to the neighboring town of Norwich to channel your inner Great British Baking Show contestant with a pie- and-tart-making class at King Arthur Baking Company.

Great Barrington, Massachusetts

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Part of the Berkshires, Great Barrington looks straight out of a Louisa May Alcott novel. Everywhere you look are storybook old buildings now housing bakeries, upscale grocers, and farm-to-fork restaurants. (During the holidays, the town looks like the real-life version of a snow globe.) See what’s going on at Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center, a 1905 theater hosting everything from classic flicks to big-name bands.

Bar Harbor, Maine

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Once upon a time (in the late 1800s), Bar Harbor was a summer oasis for the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, Astors, and other VIP members of society looking to beat the heat. The appeal of this place takes no imagination; Bar Harbor is a quaint small town on Frenchman Bay and a gateway to Acadia National Park. Take a warm-up stroll along Bar Harbor’s shore path before diving into moody Acadia, where rocky shores and 150 miles of hiking trails await.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Drive about an hour north of Boston, and you’ll find the darling town of Portsmouth. Kick off a walking tour at Market Square, hit the Portsmouth Harbor Trail, and dedicate a couple of hours to Strawbery Banke Museum — an outdoor museum with historic structures and costumed actors bringing three centuries of history to life. Reward yourself with the oyster happy hour and a cold local Smuttynose at Row 34 before moving on to dinner at Black Trumpet, a bistro and wine bar.

North Adams, Massachusetts

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Art lovers have streamed into North Adams since 1999 when Mass MoCA opened in a previously abandoned 19th-century mill. Bed down at the art-filled Hotel Downstreet or The Porches Inn, a series of Victorian homes that once housed textile workers. The draws of this small Berkshires city don’t end with Sol Lewitt’s wall drawings and Michael Oatman’s installation art, on view at Mass MoCA. Outdoor options include seeing the continent’s only natural white marble arch at Natural Bridge State Park and hiking Mount Greylock, the highest mountain in Massachusetts. 

Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly may not have quite the vacay clout as Newport or the Vineyard, yet the coastal town balloons in the summer with beachgoers looking to hit Narragansett Bay and Misquamicut State Beach. For a quintessential New England weekend getaway, spend at least an afternoon in the ocean-view neighborhood of Watch Hill, visiting its 1850s lighthouse and walking along the pristine beach at the Napatree Point Conservation Area.

Provincetown, Massachusetts

Journey to the farthest-flung tip of Cape Cod, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the area’s best stretches of sand, cool boutiques and art galleries, and an enchantingly funky and bohemian vibe. This LGBTQ-friendly town has something for every mood, whether it’s drag karaoke, dance parties, and pub crawls that strike your fancy or catching the sunset on Herring Cove Beach.

Jackson and North Conway, New Hampshire

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These sister towns in New Hampshire’s pretty Mount Washington Valley make a popular getaway, thanks to their waterfall hikes, scenic drives, small-town shopping scene (Schartner Farms has a drive-up, honor-system jam stand — how cute is that?), and big-box outlets. 

On the highway between the two towns is Sunrise Shack, an old-school drive-in restaurant that's now a roadside staple for truly enormous breakfasts. After a summer swim at Echo Lake State Park or a challenging hike on Mount Chocorua, indulge in the biggest cone you’ve ever seen at Trails End Ice Cream.

Mystic, Connecticut

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History lovers looking for a fun-filled weekend getaway in New England will likely love this former shipbuilding hub. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a fascinating jumping-off point, with its million-plus artifacts depicting the town’s nautical life — you can even test out your sea legs on vessels like the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship that remains in the world today.

Appreciate the Long Island Sound and Fisher’s Island views at Bluff Point State Park and feast on some of the best seafood around at Oyster Club. Our perfect meal? Smoky Rhode Island clam chowder, dashi-buttery roasted oysters, and the homemade bucatini.

Montpelier, Vermont

Nestled in the foothills of the Green Mountains, the country’s smallest state capital by population brims with opportunities for nature activities, from hiking up the 4,000-foot peak of Camel’s Hump to whitewater rafting on the Winooski River. Of course, no trip to this neck of the woods is complete without a taste of what it does best. At Morse Farm's and Bragg Farms' maple sugar houses, you can sample the Vermont specialty in the form of maple cookies, kettle corn, or “creemee” (Vermontese for soft serve).

Kennebunkport, Maine

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Like Mystic, Kennebunkport boomed as a shipbuilding hub during New England’s maritime heyday. The coastal town’s nautical vibe lives on, with glossy Italian-built yachts bobbing in the harbor and authentic schooners sailing toward the Atlantic. Kennebunkport swells in the summertime with New Englanders flocking to its beaches, but the town’s boutiques, cafes, and art galleries have year-round appeal.

Litchfield, Connecticut

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Litchfield is a small town that more than carries its weight on the history, charm, and scenic beauty fronts. This picture-book spot in rural western Connecticut (birthplace of Revolutionary leader Ethan Allen and abolitionist Harriet Beecher Stowe) has an oak-shaded town green and hundreds of historic buildings. The vast Topsmead State Forest is a favorite area for hiking and picnicking and was originally the summer estate (complete with a Cotswold-style cottage and formal gardens) of banking heiress Edith Morton Chase.

21 Best Places to Visit in New England

Quaint small towns, beautiful beaches, adorable lighthouses, and even a few fabulous cities: there are plenty of reasons to visit New England, and it certainly helps that the list of incredible places to visit in New England is never-ending!

A couple of years ago, we passed a delightful summer living in Boston , and though we tried hard to also hit up as many of the best places to visit in New England as possible outside of Boston, we had a very  hard time tearing ourselves away from what is now one of our favorite American cities.

As a result, our personal list of places to see in New England is still incredibly long.

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to create this New England bucket list–we would love to visit each and every one of these spots in New England, and hopefully, we’ll get to see more of them soon!

Table of Contents

Connecticut

Massachusetts, new hampshire, rhode island.

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From Margie of DQ Family Travel

Middletown, Connecticut is absolutely one of the best places to visit in New England. It is located closer to the interior part of the state, but not too far off from Hartford. The best time of year to visit would have to be during the fall foliage time of October. 

There are plenty of  things to do in Middletown, CT if you’re visiting for a day or even a weekend. Wesleyan University is located right downtown and boasts gorgeous architectural buildings. A drive through this university is a must-do when you’re in the area.

The downtown of Middletown has spectacular restaurants and breweries too. Some local favorites include Conspiracy, Eli Cannon’s Tap Room, and Celtic Cavern. If you’re visiting with younger kids, KidCity museum is the perfect stop for some family fun.

A great place to stay right in downtown is the Inn at Middletown, which has a restaurant right on-site and is in walking distance to all the restaurants and shops. Just a few minutes outside of the downtown area is Wadsworth State Park which has a beautiful waterfall and some short hiking trails.

Not too far away is another favorite, Lyman Orchards. They sell farm fresh produce, apple cider, and if you’re in town in the Fall, you can go apple picking.

Connecticut is a great state to visit any time of year, but if you happen to be driving around New England, a stop in Middletown is worthwhile. 

Where to Stay in Middletown

• The Inn: With elegant décor complete with an on-site pool and hot tub, this is a great choice in Middletown

From Marcie of Marcie in Mommyland

If you are looking for a quaint New England town full of independent shops and restaurants, but where you can still get your Starbucks fix, head to Portland, Maine!

It’s an easy train ride from Boston or you can fly into their airport, and I’d suggest visiting Portland in late Spring and Summer to take advantage of all the fun seasonal activities, like the lobster boats, and to enjoy touring Portland by foot or bicycle.

One of the coolest things to do in Portland is to ride a vintage fire truck while learning about Portland’s incredible history. You’ll even get to wear authentic fire coats and do a few fun photo ops!

And, of course, we can’t talk about the best places to visit in New England without mentioning the lighthouses!

In Portland, you’ll find lots of gorgeous lighthouses including Portland Head Light. This is one of the world’s most photographed lighthouses. Plus, you can visit Bug Light, one of the smallest lighthouses!

Beyond lighthouses, Portland, Maine is also a huge food town and was named the 2018 Restaurant City of the Year from Bon Appetit magazine.

For one thing, they have lobster everything . I’m talking about lobster rolls, lobster tacos, lobster mac and cheese, etc.

They also have tons of local breweries, fabulous global cuisine, and pizza topped with mashed potatoes (it’s incredible!). Instead of just eating at a couple of the restaurants, take a  Maine Foodie Tour   so you can sample from 6 different iconic Portland Maine eateries!

Portland, Maine really is New England’s biggest small town and is definitely worth a stop on any New England road trip !

Where to Stay in Portland

• The Francis: This hotel is a historic landmark in the Bramhall neighborhood, near the Art District, and has a fabulous on-site spa. Perfect for a weekend relaxing.
• Best Bower: Simple, clean, and classic with all the cozy luxuries you could wish for from your weekend trip.

Acadia National Park

From Jennifer of National Park Obsessed

Acadia National Park is the only National Park in New England.  Located in Maine on Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula.  Acadia holds a special place in New England’s heart. The Acadia is famed for its fall leaf colors , its rocky seashore, and its spectacular sunrises.  The park offers visitors a wide range of activities.

During your visit to Acadia, get up one morning and drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain and enjoy the sunrise over the ocean.  This spot is one of the first places in the United States to see the sunrise. This activity is very popular and the parking lot at Cadillac often fills before sunrise.  Plan on being at the summit at least an hour before sunrise.  

After sunrise, head down off the mountain and find a parking spot along one of the park’s shuttle routes. Acadia is very crowded and parking is very limited.  Use the free shuttle bus to get to the trailheads and to explore the way overlooks.  

There are many different hiking trails to choose from at all skill levels.  Experienced hikers who aren’t afraid of height might like the Beehive. While other hikers might enjoy a stroll on the carriage routes or a hike around Jordon Pond. 

Acadia can be visited year-round but winter access is limited and many places are snowshoe or cross-country ski only.  The park is busiest from June to October. The summer temperatures draw people in for outdoor recreation and fall brings people for fall leaf viewing. 

Where to Stay in Acadia National Park

• Acadia Inn: Within 1 mile of the park and with its own nature trail that extends into the park this is the perfect spot to base yourself in Bay Harbor near the park.
• Bar Harbor Grand Hotel: Another great option in Bay Harbor is this palatial manor hotel with a swimming pool and hot tub.

From Chelsea of Pack More Into Life

Bar Harbor and neighboring Acadia National Park are two destinations that are easy to fall in love with.

Bar Harbor is located in eastern Maine on Mt. Desert Island. It is a coastal town with quaint shops, lobster boats, beautiful homes and B&B’s to enjoy restful nights with delicious homemade breakfasts.

Acadia National Park is a short 5-minute drive from Bar Harbor and features ocean paths, tidal pools, cliff climbs with massive boulders, horse-drawn carriage rides and Cadillac Mountain where you can be the first person in the US to enjoy the sun peeking over the edge of the earth in all its stunning glory!

Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are especially beautiful in the summer and early fall when the temperatures are moderate and all the trails are open. The town bustles with festivals, tours, and outdoor activities. I recommend making a reservation in advance for the best waterfront Resorts/Inns and B&B’s. 

Be sure to spend at least a few days to enjoy all the best of the area–aim for at least four full days.

You’ll want two to spend exploring Acadia and enjoying the variety of hikes, ranger programs (the stargazing is stunning), popovers at Jordan Pond House, and catching a sunrise or sunset. Then another day in Bar Harbor where you’ll delight with lobster rolls, blueberry ice cream (so good!), fun shops, an oceanside path, and walking across the sand bar to Bar Harbor Island at low tide. Your final day is spent exploring the surrounding areas of Southwest Harbor with a private sailboat ride, seeing the Bass Harbor Lighthouse and strolling through the Gardens. 

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

• As suggested for Acadia National Park, the Acadia Inn and Bar Harbor Grand Hotel are great options in Bar Harbor.

From Toccara of Forget Someday

Ogunquit, Maine is a tiny town nestled along the coast, just under an hour south of Portland. But don’t be quick to underestimate this less than 5-square mile ‘beautiful place by the sea’ (translation of the name Ogunquit, provided by the Abenaki tribe). The town of Ogunquit offers much to see, do, and eat, you’ll need more than just a few days to discover it all.

What the town may be most well known for is its coastal walk, The Marginal Way. It’s one of New England’s best-paved seaside strolls and is fully accessible welcoming strollers and wheelchair users. The easy walk is just over one mile starting at Ogunquit Beach and ending at Perkins Cove, another one of Ogunquit’s main attractions. Perkins Cove is a fishing community turned artisan village now housing galleries, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants.

Ogunquit boasts several miles of expansive beaches that become jam-packed in the summer months. In the off-season, walkers and beachcombers continue to stroll the seashore in a less crowded and more serene atmosphere.

Something that sets Ogunquit apart is that you will not find a single chain restaurant in town. All dining options are unique and delicious! Check out Amore Breakfast for breakfast, Village Food Market for lunch, and one of the many seafood restaurants for an indulgent dinner! And absolutely do not miss a stop off at Bread and Roses Bakery downtown for a delectable whoopie pie you will continue to dream about long after your visit to Ogunquit! 

Where to Stay in Ogunquit

• Ogunquit Hotel and Suites : With a huge stunning pool and hot tub, this is the perfect beachside hotel for your stay in Ogunquit.
• Grasshopper Inn: Just 400m from the beach with bright and fresh accommodations, you are perfectly placed here.

Boothbay Harbor

From Julie of Wandering Sunsets

Boothbay Harbor is an adorable coastal town in Maine and the perfect spot for a relaxing summer weekend in New England.

Boothbay is a little bit of a local secret: even at the height of summer, the town doesn’t typically get as crowded as the rest of Maine. With a myriad of delicious oceanfront restaurants, Boothbay Harbor is seafood galore!

Grab a basket of crispy fried clams or freshly steamed lobster and enjoy your dinner watching the sunset by the harbor.

Boothbay is also a great destination for a family trip. The town is very walkable with many cute shops and cafes. Kids will love the old-school ice cream and candy stands lining the streets!

There are tons of things you can do from Boothbay Harbor. Hop on one of the boat excursions to see seals, whales, and puffins.

A boat ride is the best way to explore the Maine rugged coastline, with its many lighthouses and rocky islands. If you prefer to go on a road trip, take the scenic route to Ocean Point and have a picnic on the rocks at sunset. Another highlight of the region is the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, where you can stroll through beautiful floral plantings, pretty waterfalls, and fountains, and enjoy sweeping scenic views.

If you’re looking for an active vacation, Boothbay Harbor is home to many nature trails, world-class sea kayaking, and a beautiful golf course! Finally, you can take a ferry trip to Monhegan Island, which is a small wooded island with many hiking trails to discover.

I f you are looking to experience the highlight of a Maine summer without too many crowds, the picturesque town of Boothbay Harbor is the perfect destination.

Where to Stay in Boothbay Harbor

• Harbor House Inn: A great classic Maine property and a wonderful option for your trip. Book a room with a seating area and relax by the open fire each evening.
• Harbour Towne Inn: Located on the waterfront with spacious rooms and pretty views over the marina.

From Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

The quintessential New England city, Boston is a must-visit if you love American history!

Boston was settled by the Puritans from England as far back as 1630! It is the site of many important events in the times leading up to America’s independence, from the Boston Tea Party to Paul Revere’s Ride and the Battle of Bunker Hill. It’s awesome to walk around the city and savor so many landmark events.

But Boston isn’t all about the past. It’s a vibrant, gorgeous, walkable city, with a stunning skyline, lots of great architecture blending the old and the new, and tons of fun things to do. Take a walk through the Boston Common. Walk a part or all of the Freedom Trail.   Spend an afternoon in the Boston Public Garden , walking among the flowers or enjoying a swan boat ride. Head to the top of the Skywalk Observatory for panoramic 360-degree views.

Leave room in your itinerary for water activities. A harbor cruise is a perfect way to take in the beauty of Boston from the ocean. Or enjoy a Charles River Boat Tour. And if you’re a foodie, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Boston. From food trucks to fine dining, Boston has loads of great places to eat.

Boston makes for the perfect city break any time of year, but I especially enjoy visiting in the spring and the fall, when temperatures are pleasant. In the fall, of course, you’ll be treated to spectacular displays of leaf color. In the spring, blooming trees and bulb displays liven up the city.

If you’re looking for places to visit in New England, be sure to put Boston at the top of your list. You’ll have a blast in Beantown, guaranteed!

Where to Stay in Boston

• Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
• Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

From Jodi of Family Travel Magazine

Often associated with Halloween, there are lots of   things to do in Salem MA beyond the month of October, and it’s one of the best places to visit in New England year-round. 

Start your visit with the  Salem Heritage Trail , a self-guided walking tour around the city that is marked with a red line on the sidewalks. It will take you by many of the most popular attractions in the city.

History and literature buffs will love the House of Seven Gables, which was made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. Guests visiting the house will also be able to see Hawthorne’s birthplace.

There are also many different guided walking tours, including ghost tours. Some of these are family-friendly, but you’ll want to check in advance.

The Peabody Essex Museum is located in the center of town and offers kid-friendly exhibits along with maritime and Asian art.

If you are visiting during the month of October, you’ll truly get to the experience the Witch City. There are activities offered throughout the city, including costume contests, a parade, and a street fair. Many of the Salem Witch Trial attractions, like the Salem Witch Museum, are open year-round. If you visit in October, however, you’ll find the lines to be much longer.

The waterfront location of Salem means that you’ll be able to take advantage of water activities, including boat tours. There are several restaurants located on the water as well. As you walk, explore the entire area, beyond just the witch trial and Halloween attractions. 

Where to Stay in Salem

• The Coach House: With stunning spacious rooms and well-located to explore the town this is a great luxury option for your stay in Salem.
• The Merchant: Another fabulous option in Salem is this historic building with wood beam details, deep bathtubs, and luxurious decor.

Cranberry Bogs

From James of Travel Collecting

One of the best places to visit in New England is a cranberry bog in the fall. 

Cranberries can be dry or wet harvested.  The wet harvesting involves flooding fields with a couple of feet of water and creating “cranberry bogs”.  The fruit is then shaken off the vines and floats to the surface, making it easy to harvest by vacuuming it up and into the back of waiting trucks.  This is not only a fascinating process to watch, but it also creates entire fields of bright red floating berries, which are incredibly picturesque. 

There are several cranberry bogs in Massachusetts that have harvest viewing tours, including Stone Bridge Farm and Spring Rain Farm (both by appointment only). 

One of them, Bensons Pond Farm, even offers the opportunity to be a cranberry farmer for a day (or at least an hour or so).  You get into waders and step into a flooded field, surrounded by floating cranberries, and help sweep them into the vacuum.  This is a unique experience that few people get to try. 

Even if you don’t want to don waders and be a farmer, watching the harvest and taking great photos is well worth it. 

There are several cranberry farms scattered around New England that offer tours of the bog in harvest season (late September to early November), as well as the opportunity to buy fresh cranberries and other cranberry products directly from the farm.  Read more about experiencing a cranberry bog in Massachusetts and get links to the farms here . 

From Amy of New England With Love

Rockport, MA is certainly one of the best places to visit in New England, and it still remains somewhat of a hidden gem!

This art colony situated on the tip of Cape Ann is picturesque seaside New England at its best. Photo opportunities are everywhere you look in Rockport, from the much-photographed and pained fish shed known as ‘Motif No. 1’ to the cozily clustered boutiques and art galleries lining Bearskin Neck. 

This is a wonderful place for a relaxing getaway, especially for couples. Wander through the galleries of local artisans, peruse the unique boutique shops, and then walk along the beach. Everything for a great vacation is right here–no matter what your taste, you’re bound to find plenty of cool things to do in Rockport !

Getting out on the water is a great addition to your trip to Rockport. Whale-watching trips are offered seasonally out of nearby Gloucester, or you can hire kayaks for more personal water exploration.

If staying on dry land is more your thing, don’t miss the beautiful nature walks at Halibut Point. 

Where to Stay in Rockport

• Emerson Inn: Set overlooking the water this is the perfect place to wake up in a comfortable luxurious bed to views of the ocean.
• The Cove: Relax on the huge terrace overlooking the ocean at this Rockport inn. Rooms are as beachy as you could wish for in this lovely location.

Williamstown

By Suzanne Fluhr of Boomeresque

Williamstown calls itself “The Village Beautiful”, and is well worth a visit just for the beauty of its location in the extreme northwest corner of Massachusetts. It is nestled among the rolling Berkshire Mountains and is the home of Williams College.

Williamstown is a quintessential New England college town, complete with a white Congregational church on the college green.

Williamstown is a four-season destination. Each fall, visitors are dazzled as the leaves burst into their New England autumnal colors. Outdoor recreation is popular in Williamstown which is a good base for both downhill and cross country skiers. Williams College welcomes golfers to its beautiful 100 acre Taconic Golf Club course in the spring, summer and fall. Hiking in the beautiful, but not too challenging, Berkshire Mountains is also popular with Williamstown visitors.

Williamstown abounds with cultural institutions not often found in and near such a small town. It is home to 2 world-class museums: the Clark Art Institute with a notable Impressionist collection, and the Williams College Museum of Art. Summer brings the 8-week long Williamstown Summer Theater Festival, a draw for renowned thespians and directors.

The Massachusetts Museum of Modern Art is just east of Williamstown in North Adams. In southern Berkshire County, you can visit the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge which is also the summer home of the Boston Symphony at the Tanglewood Estate. The Jacobs Pillow Dance Festival is in nearby Beckett, Massachusetts.

Williamstown has more hotel and bed & breakfast inn rooms than might be expected. However, check the Williams College calendar to avoid dates when room demand is high due to college events.

Where to Stay in Williamstown

• The Williams Inn: This historic hotel is a stunning choice right in the center of town. Rooms are spacious and decorated with no detail spared.
• Maple Terrace Motel: Another great option is this motel with mountain views and charming features throughout.

Cape Cod Area

From Sarah of Travels of Sarah Fay

Cape Cod, or the Cape as locals refer to it, is the perfect escape for those looking for the perfect weekend getaway in New England. The region has been home to many looking to escape the rat race of everyday America. It is a region that follows the entire Route 6 from the Cape Cod Canal Rail bridge to the tip of the Cape, Provincetown (scroll down for more on that!). Time seems like it stands still as you explore villages, backroads, and old town main streets that are reminiscent of an era long gone.

The Cape offers many opportunities, such as exploring the 40 mile stretch of beaches of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Here you can bike on miles of trails, walk along boardwalks like Grays Board walk in Yarmouth over protected marshlands, and experience some of the best birdwatching in the USA.

Historically, Cape Cod was known for its’ seafaring Captains that would hunt for whales and today tourists can still go on a boat for some whale watching. In Cape Cod could you see big blue whales, great white sharks, and seals at the same time not too far from shore.

After a tiring day at the beach or exploring one of Cape Cod’s 14 historical lighthouses, head to Wellfleet’s Drive-In Movie theater for some real nostalgia. The historic drive-in theater is one of the last operating ones of its kind. Cape Cod is one of the only places where you can really enjoy, relax, and not worry about what you will do next, you live in the moment. 

Provincetown

From Aga of Traveling with Aga

Provincetown is a seaside town at the tip of Cape Cod, the most popular summer destination in New England. Out of all the towns on the Cape, it’s the most vibrant and colorful. This charming fishing village has a lot to offer, from the beautiful beaches, amazing food to vibrant nightlife and some of the best people-watching.

P-town, as locals call it, prides itself on being a very welcoming place. For years it’s been favored by artist and LBGTQ community, that choose P-town as their summer destination.

While taking a day trip to P-town is possible, this quaint Massachusetts town deserves at least a couple of days to see all that it has to offer, which is plenty. The heart of Provincetown is Commercial Street, lined with quirky stores, galleries, and restaurants.

One of my favorite things to do in town is biking up and down the streets, before heading down the bike path through the dunes, which are part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. The landscape is truly unique and it’s a nice break from all the commotion of Commercial Street.

Being on the Massachusetts shoreline, Provincetown has great beaches, Herring Cove and Race Point being among the favorites. The latter, with its famous historic lighthouse, is perfect not just for relaxing on the beach, but also for spotting some wildlife. Keep an eye out for sea lions, that can often be seen close to the shore.

There are a couple of ways you can get to Provincetown from Boston. The fastest and most enjoyable way is taking the highspeed ferry, that reaches P-town in just 90 minutes. Driving is another option, but keep in mind that weekend summer traffic heading to Cape Cod is brutal. The standard 3 hours it usually takes, turns into 5 or more. Unless you are able to travel on weekdays, avoid driving and choose the ferry instead.

Where to Stay in Provincetown

• AWOL Hotel Provincetown: Just 1 mile from the beach and with a lovely outdoor swimming pool this is a great hotel in Cape Cod. The terrace is a beautiful place to relax after exploring the area.
• Anchor Inn Beach House: With antique-style furnishings, huge windows, and comfortable beds, this is a classic Cape Cod hotel and well worth the stay.

White Mountain National Forest

From Richa of My Ticklefeet

The White Mountain National Forest area is quite big and you can easily spend an entire weekend exploring this region. You will definitely need a car to drive around the forest to access the scenic spots. Although spring and summer are great seasons to visit this region, in my opinion, fall is the best time to be here. New England is famous for its fall colors and White Mountain National Forest is the place to visit in   New Hampshire in autumn .

Within the White Mountain region, be sure not miss highlights like the White Mountain Cog Railway, which will take you to the top of the White Mountain summit by steam train, stunning Kancamagus Highway, beautiful Echo lake, or Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.

Definitely be sure to include Flume Gorge of your list of places to visit in New England. The granite walls in Flume Gorge are formations from the Jurassic times which have passed the test of Ice Age. There is a short 20 minutes boardwalk hike which will take you up, close, and around these gorge walls. 

Where to Stay in White Mountain National Forest

• Noble House Inn: This pretty Inn is perfect for your trip, with private balconies in each room, lovely gardens, and just 200m from the beach.
• Merrill Farm Inn: Nestled in the mountains and surrounded by lush forests and granite mountain peaks, this B&B is moments from all the lovely activities in the area.

Portsmouth is one of New Hampshire’s top destinations. If you need a great day trip from Boston, this is a wonderful option, as it’s just over an hour’s drive away. 

Here you can enjoy the waterfront of the Southern NH coast, all while exploring a charming and historic city. Portsmouth has a cute downtown that embodies what most would imagine of New England. Here you’ll find great shopping and cafes set next to white-steepled churches.  

In recent years, the Seacoast region has experienced a massive boom in the food industry, with terrific restaurants popping up constantly. There are many of these to be experienced downtown, including Cure, Black Trumpet, Moxy, and Row 34. 

History lovers will want to stop by the Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor museum that showcases preserved historical buildings. Don’t miss Book & Bar, a bookstore-meets-coffee-shop- and-bar built for bibliophiles and housed in an old post office. 

The best time of year to visit Portsmouth is in December. The town comes alive at Christmastime and is known as one of the best Christmas destinations in the country, largely in part to its lively and popular Vintage Christmas celebration, which takes place city-wide every year. 

Where to Stay in Portsmouth

• Ale House Inn: Located in a historic building that once housed a brewery, and with a complimentary bike hire this is a great choice for your weekend in Portsmouth.
• The Hotel Portsmouth: Located in Downtown Portsmouth this charming Victorian manor house has spacious rooms and is a short walk to all the amenities.

From Brianne of A Traveling Life

Newport, Rhode Island, has long been the summer playground of New England’s rich and famous – it’s where wealthy families started building grand mansions in the mid-1850s, and on September 12, 1953, it’s where John F. Kennedy married Jackie Bouvier.

There’s still plenty of fun to be had in Newport today, and it remains one of the best places to see in New England. When the weather is warm, you can relax on one of its two beautiful beaches – First Beach and Second Beach. The Cliff Walk is also a very popular activity – the 3.5-mile trail provides stunning ocean views.

Newport is also the site of many sporting and entertainment events throughout the year, including the Newport Folk Festival and the Newport Jazz Festival as well as boat races, tennis, and polo tournaments. 

Given Newport’s rich sailing history, one of the best ways to experience Newport is on the water, so consider taking a spin on a sightseeing cruise. However, if the weather isn’t cooperating, you can check out one of its museums like the International Tennis Hall of Fame or National Museum of American Illustration, or tour one of its many historic homes like the Breakers or the Isaac Bell House. 

The streets of downtown Newport are packed with gift shops, antique stores and art galleries, as well as cafes, bars, and restaurants to suit every taste and budget – from diners to ocean-front fine dining and everything in between. Needless to say, you’ll find plenty of fresh seafood in Newport!

Where to Stay in Newport

• Ivy Lodge: Stay in a classic mansion house complete with a turret and gothic woodwork. In the heart of Newport Mansion District and less than a mile from Newport Harbor, all rooms also have fireplaces for the ultimate romantic weekend evenings.
• America’s Cup Inn: Set along cobblestones street with gaslights, and decorated with colonial period furnishings, this is a classic New England B&B. Rooms have 4-poster mahogany beds or antique wicker furnishings.

Block Island

From Anisa of Two Traveling Texans

Block Island is a small island 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, and it’s one of the best places to visit in New England in the summer.   While it may not be the easiest place to get to (it’s best to take a ferry to Block Island) the journey is worth it!

The beaches are pristine and some are ideal for clamming or fishing.  If you are serious about fishing, you can charter a fishing boat.

Seafood lovers will have plenty of choices at the different restaurants on the island.  Lobster lovers will be in heaven because it is relatively cheap! Additionally, for a small island, the nightlife is lively and there are plenty of bars to choose from. Shoppers will enjoy the boutique shops that are perfect for finding unique gifts.  

There are also plenty of trails for hiking or biking.  Keep an eye out for hundreds of glass balls that are randomly hidden across Block Island as part of the Glass Float Project. You can also visit the two historic lighthouses on the island and take in the stunning views from the cliffs.

With all that Block Island has to offer, you will want to spend at least a night or two.  National Hotel is an excellent place to stay, and is located right in the middle of the town and is listed on the National Register of Historic Buildings.  Plus, the hotel’s restaurant, The Tap & Grille, serves up absolutely delicious food!

Where to Stay in Block Island

• The Sullivan House: Located in New Shoreham, a few steps from Fred Benson Town Beach this is a lovely classic hotel for your stay in Block Island.
• Atlantic Inn: This historic hotel is a superb option with huge gardens as well as an onsite restaurant and bar.

From Jamie of The Daily Adventures of Me

Often cited as the prettiest small town in America, Woodstock is quintessential New England.

Vermont is the artsiest of the New England states, full of studios and farms producing local ingredients and all of that can be accessed from the town of Woodstock–and you absolutely can’t go wrong by spending a perfect fall weekend in Woodstock, Vermont .

A whole day can be spent in the historic downtown Woodstock exploring the shops, town green, covered bridge and one of the prettiest libraries in New England. There is even an old-fashioned country store that feels like a classic slice of Americana.

Just a short drive from town you can explore the Quechee River Gorge, a yummy farmer’s market or the artist studio of Simon Pearce. 

There is skiing nearby, but fall is the best time to visit Woodstock where you can see New England’s vibrant colors against the mountains, farms and stone walls of Woodstock.  

Where to Stay in Woodstock

• The Village Inn: Furnished with period pieces and serving an amazing breakfast each morning this is a great choice.
• The Shire: This riverfront property is a lovely option with huge rooms with pretty private balconies and a great onsite restaurant

From Tara of Back Road Ramblers

Vermont’s largest city is home to just 42,000 residents, but it provides the perfect mix of urban and outdoor living.

Burlington is perched on the shores of Lake Champlain and has been named the healthiest city in the United States many times over. Not only is Burlington beautiful, but it also boasts a great mix of art and culture, farm-to-table restaurants, beautiful walking trails, and unique shopping. 

Vermont is fun to visit all through the year, but there are so many things to do in Burlington in the summer . For starters, the Burlington bike path is one of the prettiest in the country, hugging the shore of Lake Champlain for eight miles and connecting numerous parks and beaches. While you’re pedaling the bike path, be sure to keep your eye on the lake for Champ, an iconic lake monster who was first spotted in 1819. 

For great dining, shopping, or just people watching, head up the hill to the Church Street Marketplace. This is a pedestrian-only street full of restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, murals, sculptures, and outdoor seating. It is one of the best places to grab a bite and relax outdoors, and it’s very dog and child-friendly.

As the sun starts to set, make your way back to the waterfront, either to Oaklege Park or North Beach to watch the sun sink behind the Adirondack Mountains across the lake. Both parks have great beaches and walking trails to accompany the spectacular views. 

Where to Stay in Burlington, Vermont

• Green Mountain Suites: The perfect spot for a classic cozy Vermont trip with open fireplaces, fluffy blankets, and an onsite hot tub.
• Blind Tiger: Another gorgeous luxury option is this hotel with a stunning private garden and comfortable rooms.

From Rob & Ann of Travel Latte

One of New England’s truly iconic, can’t-miss destinations is Stowe, Northern Vermont’s hub for ski resorts, mountain hiking, and temptations for all of your senses.

Popular ski resorts Smuggler’s Notch and Stowe Mountain made the village famous, but Stowe is a true all-season destination, and one of the best places to visit in New England year-round.

In the warmer months, climbing and hiking trails ascend Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, and run throughout the Mount Mansfield State Forest, and Stowe Land Trust’s Pinnacle Meadows. Those same trails are Stowe’s main attraction during the fall, when Leaf Peeping is in full swing. Not a hiker? See the colors from above on the Stowe Mountain Gondola.

Most people don’t know that Stowe has an adventure for your tastebuds, too! A drive down Route 100 starts with a crafted cup from Vermont Artisan Coffee. The next stop is Cold Hollow Cider Mill to watch (and taste) fresh cider being pressed and grab a coveted hot Apple Cider Donut. Better yet, grab two before heading down the road to Waterbury Center to stock up at local chocolatier Lake Champlain Chocolate, and Smuggler’s Notch Distillery factory stores.

Next, pull into the original Ben & Jerry’s factory for a tour and samples! The 30-minute tour ends in the Flavoroom with free samples. The good news is, you can take the tour as many times as you’d like! The road ends in Waterbury, the birthplace of Green Mountain Coffee, for another tasty cup.

Finally, indulge your Sound of Music fandom at the Trapp Family Lodge, founded by the family made famous by the movie. The historic lodge offers outdoor adventures including horseback and mountain bike riding on the family’s private land. Indoors, enjoy yoga and spa treatments while surrounded by Trapp Family memorabilia. Be sure to visit the Trapp Brewery and Bierhall, too, for original brews, tasty pub food, and amazing views.

Where to Stay in Stowe

• Trapp Family Lodge : If you are interested in booking here for the winter season, make sure you book way in advance, as the rooms go fast! It is a local hotspot and for a good reason, it is the perfect place for your winter in Vermont.
• Green Mountain Inn : Another fabulous option is this inn which looks like an Inn from a holiday movie. Cute, cozy, and comforting, just what you want from a trip to Vermont!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “21 Best Places to Visit in New England”

You missed many wonderful places in Northwestern, Connecticut. Kent, Cornwall, Salisbury (Lime Rock), Litchfield, Collinsville and more. There are wonderful galleries, beautiful foliage, skiing, lakes, falls, rivers, theatre, performing arts, fabulous restaurants, B&B, cozy inns and so much more.

Essex, CT….must see!

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15 Best places to visit in New England for your bucket list

Breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities, intriguing history, national parks, tranquil lakes, and quaint towns. New England has it all. If you’re planning a trip to this incredible corner of the US, you’re up for a memorable trip.

It can be hard to choose the right place to go, so I’ve put together some of the best places to visit in New England in this post with the help of fellow travelers. No matter what your interests are, I’m sure you’ll find something for you here.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Best time to visit New England

New England is a wonderful place to see the different seasons. Depending on what you want to experience, the best time to visit New England will vary. Here is a breakup on the different seasons so you can decide what fits your trip the best.

New England is a wonderful summer destination for beaches, whale watching, visiting the islands, relaxing by the lakes, or going hiking. Temperatures can reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit (30+ C) and are perfect for outdoor activities.

Fall in New England is majestic! Travelers from all over the country visit to see the fall colors that cover the region. It’s also a great time of year to go hiking as the temperatures can be around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20+ C) in day time.

In winter, most of New England covers up by a white blanket and the mountainous areas offer fun winter activities like skiing and snowshoeing. You also find stunning winter national parks to explore. But you can also experience a lot of rain with a chilly wind.

Temperatures can range between 32 Fahrenheit (0 C) to -10 to -20 Fahrenheit (-25 C)at the coldest during January and February, especially in the mountains.

Spring is stunning with blooming flowers and daytime temperatures rising. Yet, the temperatures tend to drop at night and it’s not unusual with as cold as 32 Fahrenheit (0 C) at the night.

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Best places to visit in New England

Nantucket, ma.

Nantucket is one of the best places to go in New England in summer. There are daily ferries from Hyannis, but you can reach the island by boat from New Bedford or Harwich Port in Cape Cod too.

You can easily go on a weekend getaway from Boston or Providence by car as it’s just over an hour’s drive. Nantucket also has its own airport that connects with destinations throughout the country.

There are plenty of things to do in Nantucket from visiting museums to relaxing at one of the mesmerizing sand-blown beaches. Explore Nantucket by bike to get the most out of the nice summer days. The bike trail network on the island is great!

Make sure you go to Siasconset to see some of the oldest houses on the island. But also to walk the charming Sconset Bluff Walk that takes you along the cliffside by the beach and all the way to Sankaty Head Lighthouse.

In Millbrook you can go hiking on the forest trails where you might be lucky to see wildlife.

Nantucket is also known to be one of the best places to go whale watching , so if you love wildlife, make sure you head out to sea.

Downtown is full of life, bars, cafes, and shops. This is also where you find the island’s museums where you can learn all about the whaling history, African American history, and even lightship basket making.

Nantucket truly has something for everyone and is one of the top notch places to vacation in New England.

No trip to New England is complete without a visit to the charming harbor city of Boston, one of the most popular NYC weekend getaways as it’s only a short drive away. You can easily reach the city by plane from all over the country, but also the rest of the world.

While this might be one of the most important places to see in New England, Boston makes for a great base for day trips to surrounding places too.

But don’t forget to explore the city while you’re there. The first thing you should add to your Boston itinerary is the 2.5 mile Freedom Trail. It pretty much takes you through all the historic sites.

Make sure you visit the stunning Boston Public Library and Trinity Church, both on Copley Square. If you missed it on the Freedom Trail, go for a stroll through Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country and Boston Public Garden.

For the best views of the city, climb up the Skywalk Observatory, it’s usually included in most tourist passes. Sunset is the absolute best time to go!

Stay at HI Boston Hostel for a centrally budget option or YOTEL Boston for a modern hotel by the seaport.

Acadia National Park, ME

Recommended by Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

Located on the rocky northeastern shore of Maine, Acadia National Park is a stunning wonderland of beautiful ocean views, charming lighthouses, and all-around New England charm. 

Getting to Acadia is an easy, scenic 4.5-hour drive from Boston, or 3 hours from Portland, Maine. The park is easily accessible from the town of Bar Harbor, where you’ll want to spend the night.

One of the best things to do in Acadia is to watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. In the early morning light, the sun lights up the mountain and the horizon in beautiful shades of pink and purple. The views here are unlike any other and are worth braving the morning chill for. 

Acadia also has miles of carriage roads that you can hike, bike, and even ski on in the winter -making it one of the popular national parks to visit in the winter too. Easy hikes here include going to Witch Hole Pond, where you can spot dragonflies in the meadows. You find some of the best hikes on the East Coast in the park.

During sunset, head over to Jordan Pond. The pond here is flanked by deep green rolling hills. After the sun goes down, frogs come out to play. 

You can’t visit Maine without seeing a lighthouse, and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is as charming as they come. Watch the sunrise or sunset from the rocky shore, you’ll have waves lapping at your feet. 

You’ll want to spend at least  two days visiting Acadia as this is one of the top places to visit in New England as well as one of the best national parks on the east coast .

The town of Bar Harbor has plenty of quaint bed and breakfasts, but the Ulikana Inn is a rustic cottage straight out of a fairy tale. 

Providence, RI

Recommended by Jade of The Migrant Yogi

Providence, RI is one of the best vacation spots in New England. Although it’s small in size, Providence makes up for it with thriving nightlife and a burgeoning culinary scene.

Get excited to visit one of the best restaurants in Providence (with some very excited vegan and vegetarian options!)

There is no shortage of things to do in RI’s capital city. You can explore its neighborhoods, each of which with its own sparkling personality. 

Check out local museums, Thayer Street, Prospect Park, or even venture down to South County for a trip to Rhode Island’s fabulous beaches (all of which under an hour away.)

If you come to Providence during the summer, be sure to visit Waterplace Park. If you’ve never been to Waterfire before, don’t miss this iconic Providence event.

Generally held on Saturday nights from June-August, fires are lit along the center of the river. Food trucks, vendors, and street performers are all eager to show off their skills. You can even take a gondola ride down the river during the lighting!

For rainy days or cooler months, Providence has plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy. Book lovers can visit John Hay Library at Brown University to check out their special collections and ancient treasures.

If you’re more into art, the RISD Museum has work from celebrated artists as well as the students of Rhode Island School of Design, one of the most prestigious art schools in the country.

Theater is also a very popular activity in Providence – Trinity Rep and PPAC are both top choices.

For a centrally located hotel, the Dean Hotel Providence has a prime downtown location and an excellent on-site restaurant.

Recommended by Katie of The World on my Necklace

Salem is one of the better-known places to go in New England, famous for being the location of the witch trials of 1692.

But don’t let Salem’s dark history deter you from visiting. It’s a beautiful harbor-side city in Massachusetts , with cobbled pedestrian streets, beautifully restored historic buildings, lots of museums and historic sites, and great shops and restaurants.

You definitely don’t need to be interested in the witchy side of things to appreciate Salem, but if you are, there are numerous witch museums, a witch trials memorial, witchcraft shops, and the Witch House.

You should also definitely try to visit in October when Salem really embraces its dark history, celebrating Halloween every weekend of the month.

In October, the streets and shop windows of Salem are decked out with spooky decorations, and I can guarantee that you will see lots of people walking around in costumes.

On the non-witch related side of things, there’s still lots to do in Salem including visiting the excellent Peabody Essex Museum, finding out about Pirate lore at the New England Pirate Museum, taking a tour of the House of the Seven Gables – made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s book of the same name, and just wandering around town, shopping at the small businesses and boutiques.

One of the best places to stay in Salem is the historic The Merchant . It’s centrally located and is close to many of the city’s attractions.

Portland, ME

Recommended by Elena of The Carry-On Chronicles

Eclectic Portland, Maine is a vibrant city that blends a modern, artistic scene with culinary delights and a rich history. It’s accessible by car, Amtrak, and Portland International Jetport, Maine’s largest airport.

One of  Portland’s calling cards is its many lighthouses . Each of the six are located within an easy, 20-minute drive of the city.

The most iconic is Portland Head Light, the oldest in Maine. It resides along Fort Williams Park and offers visitors access to an award-winning museum. Due to its striking nature, Portland Head Light is a popular subject of many photos.

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is another visually stunning structure to photograph. It sits at the end of a stone breakwater on the Southern Maine Community College South Portland Campus.

The Portland Breakwater Light – affectionately known as “Bug Light” – resembles a 4th-century Greek monument. It’s located in Bug Light Park, next to the South Portland Historical Society Museum.

Two Lights State Park is the vantage point for Portland’s “twin” lighthouses. The eastern lighthouse is still active as an automated light station, whereas its western twin is out of commission, serving exclusively as a private home.

The Ram Island Ledge Light is unique in that it’s only accessible by private boat. It has an interesting history and was once responsible for numerous shipwrecks. Today, travelers can catch a glimpse of it while visiting Portland Head Light.

Portland offers a variety of accommodations, including the popular mid-range option, the Portland Harbor Hotel .

Provincetown, MA

Recommended by Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

One of the best places to visit in New England is located at the very tip of Cape Cod – Provincetown, Massachusetts. It’s one of the most remote places in the country which adds to the charm of the destination.

The easiest way to reach Provincetown is to take the ferry from Boston to the outer cape. Riding the ferry not only saves you time stuck in traffic, but it’s a lovely 90-minute cruise along the coast and through Cape Cod Bay.

It’s common to see whales along the way and you’ll definitely pass whale watching boats.

The enchanting beach town is full of gorgeous beaches, cozy cottages, and a vibrant LGBTQ community.

One of the most picturesque spots in Provincetown is the Race Point Lighthouse and its surrounding Race Point Beach. The lighthouse first opened in 1816 and is surrounded by scenic hiking paths along the dunes.

In the downtown, historic clapboard houses have been converted into high-end lodging and Provincetown Airbnb properties.

Commercial Street is the epicenter of Provincetown and features trendy boutiques, beach cafes, and the town’s nightlife.

Venues like the cabaret room at the Crown & Anchor Restaurant host some of the biggest stars from Broadway and RuPaul’s Drag Race fame. No matter what time of year you visit Provincetown, you’ll feel like a star yourself.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, ME

Recommended by Moshe of The Top Ten Traveler

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is a relatively smaller park in the south of Maine and one of the places in New England you do not want to miss. It is located on the water of Casco Bay, just 30 minutes drive up from Portland, and it’s a fun spot to stop at on every road trip in the area.

The way to the park is through the little town of Freeport and takes about 5 minutes from the town center. As you park your car, you realize you are in the middle of a beautiful white pine forest. Next to the parking lot, there is an open area where people come to picnic and a map of the trails. Most of them are easy to walk on, and some are also accessible for wheelchairs.

Choose any of the trails that go along the coastline and start walking inside the beautiful forest. You will cross small bridges, take a seat on one of the wooden benches and enjoy the peaceful view of the Casco Bay islands. If you are here in the summertime, you might catch a sight of ospreys, usually close to Googins Island.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods is a popular park and gets busy on weekends, so if you want to enjoy a quiet time come here on a weekday. On your way in or out, make a stop to stroll on the charming streets of Freeport – it’s great for a meal or just a coffee break, and even some shopping.

Newport, RI

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best places to visit in New England is the small seaside town of Newport, Rhode Island. Located on Aquidneck Island, Newport is quaint surrounded by breathtaking beaches and sea cliffs. 

There are plenty of things to do in Newport for any visitor. You can take a stroll along the Cliff Walk to take in the nature of the area. The Cliff Walk is 3.5 miles long and has beautiful views of beaches and the famous Newport mansions.

There are a few parking areas so you don’t have to do the whole thing if you’re short on time. Park near The Breakers, one of the most famous mansions so you can do that when nearby.

The mansions of Newport are famous for their history and architecture. Some of the mansions were built in the 1850s! In the evening, walk around Bannister’s and Bowen’s Wharves for a variety of food and shopping.

Any visit to Newport wouldn’t be complete without delicious food! If you arrive in Newport for breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – the blueberry stuffed french toast is a great way to start the day.

Tennis fans would enjoy a tour of the International Tennis Hall of Fame. If you want to stay in the heart of Newport, stay at the Marriott Newport – it’s within walking distance to Bannister’s Wharf. 

A wonderful mixture of nature, history, and food make Newport one of the best places to visit in New England.

Block Island, RI

Recommended by Meg of HTW Travel

Located 13-miles from mainland Rhode Island is Block Island, a quaint island covered with picturesque beaches and rocky cliffs.

Block Island is known for its lighthouses and nature, which makes it one of the best places to vacation in New England. More than 40% of the island has been set aside for nature conservation.

The easiest and most popular way to travel to Block Island is by ferry, either the slow ferry or fast ferry, but the fastest way to reach the island is by plane. Daily flights between Westerly, RI and Block Island take just 12 minutes. 

The best way to explore is by renting a bicycle or moped. Even though the island is only 6-miles wide, there are hills, and renting a bicycle will be a workout! Whichever option you choose, there are many things to do on Block Island .

Be sure to see the two lighthouses, North Light and Southeast Light, and don’t miss the Mohegan Cliffs. A steep wooden staircase will bring you to the bottom of the cliff to enjoy a walk along the rocky beach.

Spending the night on Block Island is a special experience, opt for a resort with a stunning view, such as the Spring House Hotel . Spending a day or weekend on Block Island is the perfect retreat to add to any New England bucket list. 

Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Recommended by Jamie of Adventures in New England

Martha’s Vineyard is an island located off the shore of Massachusetts. Having an area of just under 90 miles, there are many things to do on Martha’s Vineyard. It’s a great day trip from Boston. You can get to Martha’s Vineyard by ferry or airplane.

When you alight from your ferry ride to the island you will most likely be in the town of Oak Bluff which used to feature a grove of trees, but is now a bustling tourist destination.

Here you will find the famous gingerbread houses and the longest-running platform carousel, as well as many restaurants and stores.

Jump on the inexpensive VTA buses to explore the rest of the island as well as the farms, ponds, lighthouses, and many beaches. Be sure to stop by the “Jaws” bridge and explore the Kennedy connection at Chappaquiddick.

The Cliffs of Aquinnah is a perfect spot for a picnic. You can climb to the top of the Gayhead Lighthouse there for a spectacular view.

If you live an active lifestyle, the island is perfect for hiking and biking. The many ponds also provide ample opportunities to kayak. 

Also, be sure to visit the 300-year old fishing village of Menemsha. In Edgartown, you can stay at the Harbor View Hotel for an amazing view over the Edgartown Lighthouse. However you plan it, you will have an excellent getaway on Martha’s Vineyard. 

White Mountains, NH

Recommended by Jenny of Limitless Hiker

The White Mountains in New Hampshire are absolutely stunning and a must-visit for any nature lover.

Especially in the fall months when the entire area is glowing with shades of orange, yellow, and red, and makes the perfect fall foliage road trip .

Drive along Kancamagus Highway and through Bear Notch Road to North Conway for a scenic drive with multiple viewpoints along the way. Next, stop by Franconia Notch State Park and visit Flume Gorge and hike the Artists Bluff Trail.

It’s well known for its waterfalls and red covered bridge. While you’re in the White Mountains area, stop by Crawford Notch State Park and hike the Mount Willard Trail for beautiful overhead views of the changing leaves.

If you’re interested in hiking harder trails and bagging peaks, here is your chance! You can go further north to Mt. Washington, which is the tallest mountain in the northeastern side of the US at 6,289 feet.

You can also hike sections of the Appalachian Trail. Some of the most challenging sections of the AT thru-hike go through New Hampshire. This is also a great way to break out your backpack and tent and spend a couple of nights in the backcountry soaking it all in.

New Haven, CT

Recommended by Lyndsay of The Purposley Lost

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in New England, you need to make a stop in New Haven, Connecticut.

The Elm City is linked to the New Haven Metro-North train line, and a train from New York City’s Grand Central Terminal will take you to the city’s Union Station in about 2 hours. There are taxis outside the station to get you to the city center.

You’ll find many  things to do in New Haven . Start with Yale University, a historic institute of higher education next to the Town Green. Walk across the stunning school campus,  through the Yale Shops, and even visit one of Yale’s museums.

The Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art house incredible works, and the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History is world-renowned for its dinosaur fossils.

Make sure you stop for a show at one of New Haven’s phenomenal theatres, too. Yale Repertory Theatre, the Shubert, and the Long Wharf Theatre are all highly regarded regional houses with top-notch productions. You can check their websites for their seasons’ showtimes.

And, you won’t be leaving New Haven without stopping for apizza. Apizza is a pizza variety unique to New Haven that originated during the 20th century from Neapolitan immigrants.

You can’t go wrong stopping at either Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, Sally’s Apizza, Modern Apizza, or BAR.

Hartford, CT

Recommended by Disha of Disha Discovers

There are so many beautiful places to visit in New England and Hartford, Connecticut is one of them.

Touted as one of the  best getaways on the East Coast , Hartford is brimming with things to do. Plus, it’s easily accessible. You can get to Hartford by road trip or by flying into Bradley International Airport. One of the best hotels in Hartford is the Marriott Hartford Downtown as it’s right in the center of the city.

Hartford was first settled in 1635 and it’s one of the oldest towns in Connecticut and the United States. It was actually the wealthiest city in the United States by the late nineteenth century. Today, Hartford is nicknamed the “Insurance Capital of the World” because several insurance companies have their headquarters there.

One of the best things to do in Hartford is to visit the Mark Twain House & Museum. Mark Twain and his family actually lived in this house from 1874 to 1891. It has been restored and it now serves as a museum. You’ll be able to step back into time here and learn about the family and Mark’s personal life.

Wadsworth Atheneum is also a great place to visit and it houses an outstanding American art collection. You can also take a guided tour of the State Capitol. Elizabeth Park Rose Garden and Bushnell Park are also a must. Lastly, be sure to check out one of the best collections of American coins at the Museum of Connecticut History.

Lake Winnepesaukee, NH

Recommended by Jamie of Travel Addict

Lake Winnepesaukee  is an amazing destination in New England for those looking for a variety of activities ranging from boating to hiking, and even the US’s largest indoor arcade. The destination is well suited to all types of travelers as well from families to couples, and groups of friends.

The lake is located in New Hampshire on the southern edge of the White Mountains. It offers a fantastic base for anyone who wants to explore the wider region. There are not many options to get to the lake without a car, but in the summer months, there is a bus route from Boston.

The best way to get to Lake Winnepesaukee is by car, yet in summer there are occasional buses that can be taken from Boston to the lake. It’s not uncommon to see a seaplane or two, landing on the lake during the summer months if you want to find a more exotic mode of transportation.

The most popular activites in the lake involve renting a boat or visiting the local beaches. This is a great way to spend a day out on the lake soaking up the sunshine and atmosphere in the summer months.

In autumn the lakes region provides a dramatic landscape of fall foliage and many hiking opportunities. For the adults, there are a variety of wineries and meaderies in the lakes region as well, including Hermit Woods in Meredith.

Other popular attractions include the Scenic Railway, Funspot (the largest indoor arcade), the boardwalk in Weir’s Beach, the sculpture walk in Meredith, the historical Castle in the Clouds, or a ride on the MS Mount Washington.

The town of Meredith offers an accessible and beautiful location to stay in and has a variety of hotels from the luxurious Mills Falls to the utterly quaint Tuckernuck Inn.

Reflections on New England vacation spots

There is no doubt there are a lot of stunning New England vacation spots for all kinds of travelers. With so much variation from breathtaking nature to vibrant cities, and charming towns, your set for a wonderful trip wherever you choose to go.

New England is also one of the best places to travel for fall colors, so together with a coastline perfect for summer, you can enjoy this part of the country all year round.

READ NEXT: Best New England road trips

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Where to Go in New England

SD › Best Places in New England Updated: November 13, 2021 By Santorini Dave

Beachfront homes and the Pilgrim Monument in the Cape Cod village of Provincetown, Massachusetts.

• Where to Stay in Boston
• Where to Stay in Portland, ME

The Best Areas to Stay in New England

New England is the historic corner of America, crammed with picture-perfect villages with colonial churches, tranquil greens, and clapboard homes. Almost every town has a house museum dating from the 17th or 18th century, and this is where the Revolutionary War started in 1775. Today there’s a lot more to enjoy, from a gorgeous coastline of craggy headlands, sandy beaches, and islands to a rugged hinterland of mountains, dense forests, and rolling hills.

If you can only go to one state then visit Vermont or New Hampshire (they are the most quintessential having the most to see and do in the smallest area).

Best New England Destinations for Couples and Honeymoon : Martha’s Vineyard • Newport, RI Best New England Destinations for Kids and Families : Boston • Lakes Region, NH • Coastal Maine Best New England Destination for Nightlife : Boston Best New England Destination for Beaches : Cape Cod Best New England Destinations for Food : Boston • Rhode Island • Portland, ME • Portsmouth, NH Best New England Destination for Hiking : White Mountains, NH

New England – The Highlights

10 best cities in new england.

• Concord, NH

10 Best Beaches in New England

• Ballston Beach, Cape Cod (MA)
• Norton Point Beach/South Beach, Martha’s Vineyard (MA)
• Cisco Beach, Nantucket (MA)
• Block Island State Beach (RI)
• Mothers Beach, Kennebunk (ME)
• Goose Rocks Beach (ME)
• Sandy Point State Reservation (MA)
• Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester (MA)
• Popham Beach (ME)
• Nauset Beach (MA)

10 Best Vacation Spots in New England

• White Mountains, NH
• Green Mountains, VT
• The Berkshires
• Martha’s Vineyard
• Kennebunkport
• Acadia National Park
• Lake Winnipesaukee

10 Best Craft Breweries in New England

• Center Street Brewing Company, Wallingford (CT)
• Bissell Brothers Brewing Company, Portland (ME)
• Tox Brewing Company, New London (CT)
• Burlington Beer Company (VT)
• Austin Street Brewery, Portland (ME)
• Providence Brewing Company (RI)
• Article Fifteen Brewing, Weymouth (MA)
• Great Awakening Brewing Co, Westfield (MA)
• Granite Roots Brewing (NH)
• Smuttynose Brewing Company, Hampton (NH)

9 Best Food Destinations in New England

• Boston (clam chowder, Boston baked beans, Boston cream pie, Italian food)
• Coastal Maine (lobster, clambakes, clam rolls)
• New Bedford, MA (Portuguese food)
• Cape Cod (fried clam bellies)
• Berkshires (sugar shacks)
• Newhaven, CT (pizza)
• Rhode Island (coffee milk, frozen lemonade, doughboys, coffee cabinet, hot wieners)
• Vermont (cheddar cheese, apple cider/doughnuts, gravy fries/poutine, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream)
• Hartford, CT (Polish and old-school Italian)

10 Best small towns in New England

• Provincetown, MA
• Stockbridge, MA
• Shelburne Falls, MA
• Bennington, VT
• Grafton, VT
• Wolfeboro, NH
• Damariscotta, ME
• Eastport, ME

New England Travel Itinerary

It’s easy to plan a travel itinerary for New England based around Boston’s Logan International Airport, where renting a car is convenient and (relatively) good value. From here, there really are no bad itineraries – in the fall, especially, the whole of New England blazes with color, and in the summer there’s plenty to do and see inland and along the coast. Boston is worth at least a couple of days for first-timers, but after that, make time for the small towns, villages, lonely beaches, and mountains that make this such a special region.

• New England Itinerary for 7 days : 2 days in Boston, 2 days in the Berkshires, 3 days in Vermont OR 2 days in Boston, 2 days in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, 2 days in the White Mountains, 1 day in Portland, ME OR 2 days in Boston, 3 days in Cape Cod, 2 days in Rhode Island.
• New England Itinerary for 10 days : 2 days in Boston, 2 days in the Lakes Region, 2 days in the White Mountains, 4 days in Vermont OR 2 days in Boston, 2 days in Cape Cod, 2 days in Nantucket, 3 days in Martha’s Vineyard.
• New England Itinerary for 14 days : 2 days in Boston, 2 days in the Berkshires, 3 days in Vermont, 2 days in the White Mountains, 2 days in the Lakes Region, 1 day in Portsmouth, NH, 2 days in coastal Maine & Portland OR 2 days in Cape Cod, 2 days in Nantucket, 1 day in Portsmouth, NH, 2 days in the Lakes Region, 2 days in the White Mountains, 1 day in Portland, ME, 4 days travelling coastal Maine along US-1.

The 30 Best Places to Visit in New England

1. boston, ma.

The region’s biggest city and the de facto capital of New England, Boston is one of the nation’s most fascinating destinations, rich in historic sights, art museums, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions that could easily fill a week of sightseeing. Boston Common remains the city’s historic heart; from here the Freedom Trail links all the major sights associated with the Revolutionary War. Highlights include the Old South Meeting House, Old State House, Faneuil Hall , and Quincy Market . Kids especially love the New England Aquarium , Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum , Children’s Museum , and the Museum of Science . The city’s artistic gems include the Institute of Contemporary Art , Museum of Fine Arts , and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . Beacon Hill, Boston’s poshest neighborhood, is also one of the most pleasant to explore on foot. Its narrow, cobbled streets are lit by original gas lamps and lined with gorgeous 19th-century townhouses. The Black Heritage Trail is here, as is the Massachusetts State House . The North End, Boston’s Italian neighborhood, features authentic bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. The atmospheric clapboard home of Paul Revere , where he slipped out on his famous ride in 1775, is still standing in the North End, as is Old North Church , where two lanterns were hung to warn Charlestown militia (“one if by land, two if by sea”). Across in Charlestown itself is the USS Constitution , the celebrated ship known as “Old Ironsides”, and the Bunker Hill Monument . TD Garden is home to the Boston Celtics and the Bruins; Gillette Stadium hosts the New England Patriots; and legendary Fenway Park is where the Red Sox hold court. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum stands south of the city on Columbia Point.

2. Portland, ME

Maine’s cultural and commercial center, Portland makes for a pleasant city break, with several worthwhile museums, indie boutiques, fine restaurants, and plenty of high-quality craft breweries – Allagash Brewery and the Bissell Brothers Brewing Company , both on the outskirts of town, are our favorites. Other highlights include the charming Old Port district, the Portland Museum of Art , historic Victoria Mansion , and the Portland Observatory . Just offshore, Casco Bay’s Calendar Islands offer hiking trails, beaches, and historic sites.

3. Cape Cod, MA

This long, hook-shaped peninsula is one of the nation’s most popular summer destinations, studded with clam shacks, beautifully preserved colonial villages, and lined with wild, untouched beaches protected within the Cape Cod National Seashore . At its northern tip lies Provincetown , featuring its own fine beaches, art galleries, tasty seafood, and a thriving LGBT scene; it also contains the Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum and a smattering of Portuguese culture thanks to its historic fishing community. Though the roads and coastline of Cap Cod can be congested in the peak summer months, book ahead and it’s relatively easy to find a quiet strand, village green, or local café. Beyond Provincetown and the beaches, the biggest attractions are the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum , charting this history of the Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port, the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge , and the Cape Playhouse .

4. Acadia National Park, ME

Encompassing much of Mount Desert Island off Maine’s Atlantic coast (connected to the mainland by causeway), this stunning wilderness park is pitted with mountains, lakes, hiking trails, and plenty of wildlife, from seals and beavers to bald eagles. The main gateway is the elegant 19th-century resort town of Bar Harbor , crammed with hotels and holiday stores. The 27-mile Park Loop Road system offers a taster of the park by car from here, taking in the Wild Gardens of Acadia , Sand Beach, and Thunder Cave. It’s also worth venturing over to the western side of Somes Sound to visit picturesque Bass Harbor Head Light and the famous lobster pounds of Southwest Harbor. We also love the most isolated section of the park on Isle au Haut , only accessible by boat, known for its rugged hiking trails, marshes, bogs, and freshwater Long Pond.

5. Nantucket, MA

The “Little Gray Lady” is one of America’s most famous and romantic destinations, set in the Atlantic Ocean 30 miles off the shores of Massachusetts. Once a major whaling port (part inspiration for Moby Dick), Nantucket today is known for its wild beaches, fresh seafood, and its rich seafaring legacy, reflected in a clutch of maritime museums and the grand gray clapboard and weathered shingle homes that stud the cobbled main settlement, Nantucket Town. The island is perfect for exploring by bike – the best ride follows Polpis Road east to the rose-smothered cottages of Siasconset (aka “Sconset”).

6. The Coastal Route (Hwy-1, Maine)

Highway US-1 in Maine takes in some of the most scenic parts New England’s Atlantic coast, a rugged series of headlands and historic fishing ports beginning with Kittery on the Piscataqua River (and New Hampshire border). There’s a lot to see off the highway – it could easily take a couple of weeks to do it justice. Driving north, our favorite stops are Ogunquit Beach , the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge , and Kennebunkport , before cutting through the city of Portland. From here the highway runs northeast through several historic towns and the shopping outlet hotspot of Freeport before following the coast of Penobscot Bay from Rockland to Acadia National Park.

7. The Berkshires, MA

Much of western Massachusetts is taken up by the Berkshires, a hilly region of small towns and charming villages best known for its world-class arts festivals and cache of historic mansions. It’s especially popular during the summer festival season and in the fall, when the woods and forests are smothered in color. Highlights include Tanglewood, summer quarters of the Boston Symphony Orchestra ; the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge; the Mount , home of writer Edith Wharton; and Hancock Shaker Village , five miles west of Pittsfield. To the north, in Williamstown and North Adams, The Clark and stunning MASS MoCA respectively are world-class art galleries. In addition to the Tanglewood concert series, there’s the Berkshire Theatre Festival , contemporary dance at Jacob’s Pillow , Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, and the Williamstown Theatre Festival .

8. Martha’s Vineyard

The largest New England island, Martha’s Vineyard offers a lot more variety than Nantucket. It contains several different communities, each with its own identity. Edgartown features brightly painted Colonial clapboard homes and gardens, while Vineyard Haven is the main port, crammed with stores. Oak Bluffs is best known for its gingerbread cottages. Elsewhere there are small beaches, hills, farms, and wild, undeveloped moorland. The island can get congested in the summer, but it’s usually easy to find a secluded corner.

9. Newport, RI

Set in a beautiful waterside location on Aquidneck Island, Newport boomed in the 19th century as a summer resort for the Astors, Vanderbilts, and America’s various Gilded Age millionaires. Today it remains a popular yachting destination, with lots of enticing beaches in the summer and the historic Point district crammed with Colonial-era homes, though it’s best known for the fabulous mansions built in its heyday. Most of them are open to visit and are loaded with antiques, marble, and precious art, and are more like European palaces than summer homes. The Breakers is must-see, easily the grandest mansion, built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II in 1895. Rosecliff , completed seven years later for Nevada silver heiress “Tessie” Fair Oelrichs, was designed by famous architect Stanford White in the style of the Grand Trianon at Versailles. Belcourt Castle (aka “Belcourt of Newport”) is another favorite, designed by Robert Morris Hunt and completed in 1894.

10. Portsmouth, NH

This small but sophisticated port city on the New Hampshire coast combines a ton of history and colonial remnants with gourmet restaurants and superb craft breweries, its small center easily traversed on foot. The principal attraction is the Strawbery Banke Museum , a living museum of over 30 historic houses and wooden buildings dating back to the colonial period. There’s also several historic homes to explore in town, notably the Moffatt-Ladd House and John Paul Jones House , home of America’s first great naval commander.

11. Lake Winnipesaukee & the Lakes Region, NH

Just south of the White Mountains, New Hampshire’s Lakes Region is smothered in forests, ponds, and beautiful stretches of blue water, home to thousands of loons, eagles, and all sorts of wildlife. The biggest lake and the central attraction is Lake Winnipesaukee, best appreciated on a boat ride. The lake is surrounded by historic resort towns, the best of which is Wolfeboro . Weirs Beach , on the congested western shore is a more family-friendly resort town, home to adventure parks and watersports. Looming high above the northern side of the lake, don’t miss the Castle in the Clouds , a beautiful mountain top estate built in 1913 and open to visitors. Further north, Squam Lake is a tranquil stretch of water surrounded by small villages and towns.

12. Burlington and Lake Champlain, VT

Stretching some 150 miles between Vermont and New York state, Lake Champlain is one of New England’s greatest natural features, a magnet for kayaking, boating and cycling enthusiasts (it’s lined with enticing bike trails). The lake is anchored by Burlington , a fun French Canadian-influenced city known for its 19th-century architecture, brewpubs, the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , and Lake Champlain Chocolates . The University of Vermont campus contains the Robert Hull Fleming Museum of Art , while the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum lies in the northern outskirts, commemorating the celebrated Revolutionary War hero. The northern end of the lake is dominated by the rustic Champlain Islands , home of Saint Anne’s Shrine , while the southern stretch is guarded by Mount Independence , a significant Revolutionary War fortress.

13. Shelburne Museum, VT

Though it lies just outside Burlington, this vast open-air museum deserves to be highlighted on its own – it takes at least a full day to do it justice. Covering some 45 acres, it can be roughly described as a grand collection of Americana, with more than 30 buildings and 18th-century clapboard houses, most transported here from other parts of New England. Highlights include the giant McClure Round Barn and carousel, the Circus Building (housing exhibits on historic American circus troupes), the Ticonderoga, a steam paddlewheeler, a once working lighthouse, the 1785 Stagecoach Inn, and a vast collection of art displayed in the Electra Havemeyer Webb Memorial Building and Webb Gallery.

14. Mount Washington & the White Mountains, NH

The rugged White Mountains of New Hampshire are a year-round destination, studded with ski resorts in the winter (notably Waterville Valley , Jackson , and Loon Mountain ), and offering superb hiking, biking, and scenic drives in the summer. Towering above it all is Mount Washington, New England’s highest peak (at 6,288ft), accessible by car (Mount Washington Auto Road), on foot, or by the famous Mount Washington Cog Railway . The Kancamagus Highway between Lincoln and Conway is one of he most scenic routes across the mountains, while the best hiking trails can be found in and around Franconia Notch (a “notch” is the local name for high pass), Crawford Notch , and Pinkham Notch , along the eastern base of Mount Washington.

15. Hartford, CT

One of New England’s most surprising destinations, Hartford is traditionally known as the “Insurance Capital of the World,” as well as being Connecticut’s state capital, but it also boasts a rich cache of cultural attractions. The Mark Twain House and Museum preserves the legacy of America’s greatest writer, while the Wadsworth Atheneum displays a fabulous collection of art. The newer Connecticut Science Center is an innovative family-friendly museum crammed with interactive exhibits. There’s also the Old State House , and the Museum of Connecticut History , where the original 1662 Connecticut Royal Charter is kept. The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center (next door to the Mark Twain museum) serves as a memorial to the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”, the book that turned many white Americans against slavery in the 1850s.

16. Stowe, VT

Stowe is Vermont’s quintessential ski destination, the slopes and mountains of Stowe Mountain Resort set above a beautiful 19th-century village. It’s also known for being the final home of the Von Trapp family, inspiration for The Sound of Music (the Trapp Family Lodge is a popular hotel here). Historic Stowe village and the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum lie along Rte-100 (Main St), while Rte-108 (Mountain Rd) leads up to the ski areas (lined with malls and restaurants), and on through the pass known as Smugglers’ Notch. The highest mountain in Vermont is also here, 4,395-foot Mount Mansfield – it’s possible to drive up the Toll Road to Mt Mansfield Peak Visitor Center for sensational views.

17. Lexington and Concord, MA

The Revolutionary War began in 1775 in the small towns of Lexington and Concord, just outside Boston, essential stops today for anyone interested in the history of the United States. There’s enough to see here to fill several days of sightseeing. Both towns have visitor centers, monuments, and museums dedicated to the battles fought here and the minutemen who sent the British soldiers scurrying back to Boston. In Concord there’s a replica of North Bridge and the absorbing Concord Museum . Lexington contains the patriots’ headquarters at the Buckman Tavern , triangular Battle Green where the first bloody encounter took place, and the National Heritage Museum . In between the two towns, the Minute Man National Historical Park preserves the old Battle Road on which the British forces were pushed back. Non-war related attractions include Orchard House , the home of author Louisa May Alcott, and Wayside , the house where fellow writer Nathaniel Hawthorne lived. There’s also Ralph Waldo Emerson House , residence of the famous essayist and poet.

18. Emily Dickinson Museum, MA

One of America’s most beloved poets grew up and lived in Amherst, Massachusetts, for most of her life. Today the Emily Dickinson Museum preserves The Homestead, her birthplace and family home, as well as The Evergreens next door, home of her brother Austin and his wife Susan Gilbert, Emily’s childhood friend. Tours of both houses feature enthusiastic guides and lots of anecdotes about the famously reclusive poet, as well as some personal effects and the desk where her poems were found after her death. Dickinson’s grave lies in the nearby West Cemetery, behind Pleasant Street.

19. Monhegan Island, ME

A tiny island in the Atlantic, some ten miles off the coast of Maine (but easily reached by ferry in summer), Monhegan seems frozen in time, known for its rustic village inns, lobster and clam shacks, the 1824 Monhegan Island Lighthouse , and its 17 miles of paths along granite cliffs.

20. Cambridge & Harvard, MA

Two of the world’s most famous universities are based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, just across the Charles River from Boston. Founded in 1636, the historic halls and libraries of Harvard University are laid out around Harvard Yard, with nearby Harvard Square the center of town life in Cambridge itself. Impressionists and Picasso drawings hold court at the university’s Fogg Art Museum , while German Expressionists and Bauhaus artists take center stage at the Busch-Reisinger Museum . If art doesn’t appeal, opt for the massive dinosaur fossils at the Harvard Museum of Natural History , or take in the chilled-out cafés and bars of Cambridge itself. A couple of miles southeast of Harvard lies the sprawling campus of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) , the most revered engineering and science university in the world. The campus is home to Frank Gehry’s whimsical Stata Center (2004), a crazy concoction of tilting columns, shimmering metal, and curved walls. MIT Museum has a number of suitably high-tech displays including an entrancing hologram collection and working robots such as the 1993 version of the “sociable” robot, Kismet, which uses human-like facial expressions.

21. New Haven and Yale University, CT

One of Connecticut’s oldest colonies, the lively city of New Haven is best known as the home of Yale University’s leafy campus. Highlights here include the Louis Kahn-designed Yale Center for British Art and the Yale University Art Gallery (which is free), plus Yale’s Peabody Museum of Natural History , home to a jaw-dropping collection of dinosaur fossils. The city of New Haven itself contains Chapel Street , crammed with bookshops, boutiques, cafés, and student bars, while the Italian District boasts some of the best restaurants in the region; New Haven is famous for its pizza, with Pepe’s (founded in 1925 by Italian-born Frank Pepe), Sally’s Apizza (founded by Frank’s nephew Salvatore Consiglio in 1938), and Modern Apizza (1934) the most celebrated joints.

22. Salem, MA

Salem, just north of Boston, is a great family-friendly destination, with a rich maritime history and of course plenty of attractions cashing in on the famous witch trials that took place here in 1692. Older kids will enjoy the kitschy witch-related sights; the best are the Salem Witch Museum , the atmospheric Witch House , and the Witch Dungeon Museum . The most interesting attraction in Salem is actually the Peabody Essex Museum , a massive art gallery with a collection that’s especially good for Asian artifacts and culture. Much of Salem’s historic waterfront is protected within the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, and includes the House of the Seven Gables , an old mansion made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s eponymous novel.

23. Litchfield Hills, CT

This rustic corner of northwest Connecticut is peppered with scenic villages, gentle waterfalls, and pine and maple woods. The region is anchored by the small town of Litchfield, known for its traditional Town Green , elegant clapboard homes and Historic District ; picture-perfect Washington ; the antique haven of Woodbury; pretty Lake Waramaug ; and the country town of Kent , an artists colony and home to Kent Falls State Park . Other attractions include the historic covered bridge at West Cornwall and the Yale Summer School of Music in Norfolk.

24. Ben and Jerry’s Factory Tour, VT

Humble Waterbury Center is headquarters to the wildly popular Ben and Jerry’s ice cream empire, which was established in Vermont back in 1978. Factory tours of the still surprisingly low-key operation also include a short film and a free scoop of the flavor of the day. The gift shop and ice cream counter outside sell all the usual flavors as well as some specials. Waterbury Center is also home to other worthwhile stops such as the Cold Hollow Cider Mill and Smugglers’ Notch Distillery .

25. Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield, MA

Springfield’s main claim to fame is as the home of basketball. It was here in 1891 that Canadian-born James Naismith invented the modern game, commemorated at the entertaining Basketball Hall of Fame. Set inside a giant dome, it’s crammed with interactive games (including a virtual hoop game and a rebound machine) and exhibits (including one dedicated to Michael Jordan), as well as the Hall of Fame itself, where new players are enshrined every year.

26. Worcester Art Museum, MA

One of the greatest art museums in the region is tucked away in Worcester, some 45 miles west of Boston. Its precious collections include a 12th-century Romanesque chapter house shipped over from France, the Roman Antioch Mosaics, and paintings ranging from the early Italian renaissance to El Greco, Rembrandt, Goya, Monet, and Gauguin. There’s also a substantial cache of American art and a vast collection of Qing dynasty Chinese jade.

27. Canterbury Shaker Village

This museum of Shaker life makes for an intriguing day-trip, a living memorial to the community founded here in 1792. It’s one of the most complete Shaker villages preserved in the US, with all the main buildings intact and plenty of information about the Shakers, an 18th-century Christian sect.

28. Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site, NH

Set just outside the small village of Cornish, this site preserves the studios and gardens of celebrated 19th-century sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens (creator of the Shaw Memorial in Boston and the General William T. Sherman Monument in New York City). He lived and worked here between 1885 and 1907.

29. Queechee Gorge, VT

Protected within Queechee State Park, this 165-foot tree-lined, narrow gorge is one of Vermont’s primary natural wonders. Most visitors view the gorge from the bridge that takes US-4 across the Ottauquechee River, but hiking trails also fan out from the nearby park information center. It’s especially scenic in the fall, when the surrounding forests burst with color.

30. The Long Trail, VT

Vermont is an especially good target for hikers, with the 272-mile Long Trail being one of the most challenging treks in the region (it follows the Appalachian Trail for much of its length). The trail runs along the ridge of the Green Mountains from the Massachusetts-Vermont border to Québec, taking in some of the tallest mountains in the state such as Camel’s Hump (4,083ft) and Mount Mansfield (4,393ft). Most hikers take 25 to 30 days to complete the entire trail, but it’s relatively easy to access for day hikes.

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32 Must-Do New England Summer Adventures

Family day-trip inspiration abounds in the pages of Yankee ’s travel guide. From beach days to scenic strolls, here are 32 fantasic New England summer adventures to tackle this year.

By Yankee Magazine

Jun 16 2022

Both expert and novice surfers delight in the long, rolling waves of Narragansett Town Beach in Rhode Island.

New England Beach Outings

Crane beach | ipswich, ma.

For sheer scenic beauty, no New England strand tops Crane Beach, another jewel in the treasure chest of properties owned by the nonprofit Trustees of Reservations. This four-mile stretch of soft, white sand is set against a backdrop of undulating dunes, piping plovers, and the grand mansion at Castle Hill. If you walk a bit, you’ll find a private spot, even in high summer. There are also plenty of shallows and tidepools for kids to explore. Locals caution that July’s greenhead flies can be pesky—but the months before and after are heaven. 

Hammonasset Beach State Park | Madison, CT

From 1919 to 1925, the state anted up $185,000 for 565 shorefront acres, and today its premier waterfront park covers more than 900. This two-mile golden crescent is hands down the best public beach in Connecticut, spring, summer, and fall. It’s perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, while the acreage is ideal for playing ball, picnicking, and camping. The state—and all of us—got one great deal.

Popham Beach | Phippsburg, ME

There’s nothing manicured about this rare spit of sand sandwiched between rocky shores, home to pieces of driftwood, backed by dwarf pines and uprooted trees. Come at low tide, and the grooved sand leads to a tiny island where seagulls have picked over unlucky crabs, and mussels lie exposed on the kelp. When the water rolls in, kids swim in the surprisingly warm waters of the tidal pool as parents take long beach walks, watching three-masted schooners and lobstermen cruise past pine-studded islands and lighthouses. Let the cool breeze blow through your hair and breathe in the salty air. This is the raw Maine coast you’ve yearned for. 

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

Surfing at town beach  | narragansett, ri.

Town Beach in Narragansett is a lovely place for sitting and soaking up sun. But when there are storms over the Atlantic, the swells get gnarly, and the surfers come out in droves. You can surf this section of Narragansett year-round, but from mid-July to mid-September the crescent-shaped beach and shifting sandbars often produce waves in excess of 10 feet. Bring your own board or rent one from any number of local outfitters. 

Back-in-Time Trips

Canterbury shaker village | canterbury, nh.

Here you will not only learn history but also experience its living endurance. The Shaker sect believed in simplicity, equality of sexes, communal living, pacifism, celibacy, and respect for nature, and the 300 people who lived and worked here two centuries ago would still feel at home all these years later. Decades after the last Shaker sister at Canterbury passed away, the village remains a tribute to a way of life that influenced generations to appreciate the beauty in simplicity. 

Mystic Seaport | Mystic, CT

With its collection of vintage buildings and a veritable fleet of wooden ships anchored in its harbor, Mystic Seaport looks like an old port town, albeit one with high-end dining and interior plumbing. In this 19-acre historical wonderland you can hop onto a ship and someone will demonstrate how to climb the rigging. Poke your head into a shack and a talkative blacksmith will stress the importance of properly crafted gaff hooks. Some days there’s even a band singing sea chanteys. 

Plimoth Patuxet Museums | Plymouth, MA 

Upward of a million visitors flood into Plymouth every year to experience firsthand what life was like in one of America’s first colonies, and for good reason. The living history museum formerly known as Plimoth Plantation provides an immersive, 360-degree view of a bygone era, thanks to its re-creation of a 17th-century English village filled with actors and the Wampanoag Homesite, populated not by actors but by Indigenous interpreters. It also boasts a full-scale reproduction of the Mayflower II , fresh off a three-year, multimillion-dollar restoration.

New England Bike Excursions

Cape cod rail trail | dennis to wellfleet, ma.

It wasn’t so long ago that this flat, 25-mile-long dedicated bike trail was seen as almost a hazard by the state. Now it’s practically a natural resource, with millions of dollars poured into it to rehab bridges, tunnels, and culverts, and to widen and repave the route. The trail, which starts mid-Cape at Route 134 in Dennis and extends to Wellfleet, follows the former Old Colony Railroad bed, past lakes and marshland, forests and harbors. At the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham, don’t miss the spur trail that heads to the crashing waves of the Atlantic. Don’t have your own wheels? Outfitters along the route are happy to rent you a ride. 

East Bay Bike Path | Bristol to Providence, RI

Sights, sounds, and scents of the bay accompany your walk or ride along this former railbed of the Providence/Worcester line. Stretching 14½ miles along the shore from Independence Park in Bristol to India Point Park in Providence, this popular path is the keystone of a huge network of bike lanes and trails throughout Rhode Island. Possible stops include wildlife watching at Audubon’s Environmental Education Center and grabbing a Del’s frozen lemonade at Colt State Park. 

Farmington River Trail | Farmington, CT

Just a 10-minute drive from the hubbub of Hartford, cyclists can bike into some of the prettiest landscapes in Connecticut on this 18-mile recreational trail between Farmington and Simsbury. Built on the former Central New England Railroad bed, the largely paved trail runs along a stretch of the Farmington River and provides plentiful opportunities for stops and side trips, such as the beautiful old industrial village of Collinsville. Cyclists who want to keep going can connect to the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail, which when complete will sprawl all the way from the Berkshire foothills to Long Island Sound. 

New England Bucket-List Hikes

Bold coast trail | cutler, me.

Along this 10-mile hiking loop over rugged ocean cliffs and through forests of spruce and fir, nature hasn’t been groomed or reduced to some pretty painting for visitors to come and gaze at. This is a place to interact with the land, to pause to smell the wildflowers, to get a little muddy, to work up some sweat, to dangle your feet atop a bluff. It’s a bold idea, but if you can slow down enough to do it, you may just discover that there are still spots for true adventure. 

Mount Monadnock | Jaffrey and Dublin, NH

From the summit of Monadnock, see what Mark Twain and Henry David Thoreau saw on a clear day: all six New England states. Routes include the meandering Pumpelly Trail near the shores of sparkling Dublin Lake, or the popular White Dot Trail from Monadnock State Park in Jaffrey. This 3,165-foot peak wasn’t born bald, but early settlers denuded it when they burned out the packs of wolves inhabiting the summit. Ever since, its lovely views and 40 miles of trails have fired the imaginations of artists, writers, and more hikers than almost any other mountain in the world. 

New England Classic Cruises

Isles of shoals steamship co. | portsmouth, nh.

Part of the cluster of nine scenic, rocky islands that compose the Isles of Shoals, Star Island lies some 10 miles out from Portsmouth Harbor. You’ll arrive aboard the M/V Challenger and then disembark onto a rock-strewn, sea-splashed nugget. On a hot, blue-sky day, spend your time on the island exploring, or give yourself the shivers by reading Anita Shreve’s The Weight of Water , a historical novel about the real-life double murder that took place on nearby Smuttynose Island in 1873. 

Lake Champlain Ferries | Burlington, VT

Founded in 1826, this venerable ferry is just the ticket for a scenic ride across Vermont’s “Great Lake.” There are three crossings to choose from, covering different portions of Champlain and ranging from about 15 minutes to an hour. We recommend opting for the latter, which is a seasonal offering between Burlington and Port Kent, New York, that traverses the broadest and most majestic part of Champlain. Spectacular views of the Green Mountains and Adirondacks, along with lake vistas to the north and south, elevate this ferry ride above the rest. 

Windjammers: The Maine Windjammer Association and Maine Windjammer Cruises | Camden and Rockland, ME

The magic of spending a few days on an authentic Maine windjammer is that you see the coast everyone hopes to see but few actually do. These independently owned and operated boats come in all shapes and sizes—from a rare three-masted schooner built in 1900 to haul cargo, to a 1922 racing yacht, to a 1950s ship built especially for windjamming cruises—but all offer an unforgettable maritime adventure. You can help raise the sails if you have the inclination, or kick back and relax if you don’t. 

New England Family Activities

Canobie lake park | salem, nh.

From its early days as a “pleasure resort” in 1902, with canoeing and a botanical garden, Canobie Lake has evolved into a classic New England amusement park with actual fear-factor ratings. Its 85 rides, games, and attractions include thrill rides, such as the Corkscrew Coaster and the Starblaster, a shuttle liftoff meets bungee jumping that demands intrepid commitment. Those of us who like a slower pulse rate can stick with family rides like Crazy Cups and Dodgem bumper cars. 

Dinosaur State Park |  Rocky Hill, CT

In 1966, a worker excavating this location for a new state building saw something unusual—a dinosaur track. Turns out that 200 million years ago this was the stomping ground of Dilophosaurus , an 8-foot-tall, 20-foot-long dinosaur. Today this 63-acre park encompasses the largest dinosaur-track site in North America. Indoors under a giant geodesic dome, you can see a dramatic display of 500 tracks with dioramas and exhibits, while outdoors, kids whose parents call ahead and bring their own materials can make plaster casts of tracks. Afterwards, the whole family can picnic on the grounds, explore two miles of trails, and walk a timeline that brings home just what Johnny-come-latelys we humans are. 

Flying Horse Carousel | Watch Hill, RI

In the charming Victorian-era seaside village of Watch Hill, the Flying Horse Carousel claims to be one of the nation’s oldest carousels, built around 1867. (To claim the top spot outright would risk a battle with a carousel on Martha’s Vineyard.) However, this is probably the nation’s last surviving example of the “flying horses” model, which means that its hand-carved wooden steeds are not attached to poles that go up and down. Instead, they hang suspended from a center frame, causing them to fly out when the carousel turns. The ride is for kids only, but the spectacle is free for all to enjoy. 

The Goldenrod | York Beach, ME

Walking or driving around York Beach, you’re sure to spot the Goldenrod. Look for the kids mesmerized on the sidewalk, staring through windows at the way the taffy machines twist and pull and slice and wrap millions of pieces of saltwater taffy. More than 50 tons of saltwater taffy are produced annually in the front room of this strikingly old-fashioned restaurant, which has roots back to 1896. An argument over the best flavors can occupy a long car ride, while everyone slurps and chews on their favorite piece. 

“Only in New England” Adventures

The mapparium | boston, ma.

The Mary Baker Eddy Library is home to a one-of-a-kind structure: the world’s only walk-in, stained-glass globe that allows the surface of the earth to be viewed without distortion. Three stories high and measuring 30 feet in diameter, this illuminated exhibit is composed of 206 LED fixtures, which when programmed together produce at least 16 million colors. The Mapparium also features what’s known as a “whispering gallery” because of its unique acoustics. Someone speaking quietly at one end of the Mapparium can be heard with perfect clarity by someone at the opposite end. Inside the Mapparium, every visitor’s voice can be heard—symbolizing, in a way, how we are all truly global citizens. 

Mount Washington Cog Railway |  Bretton Woods, NH

This jiggling, chattering antique train is a durable testament to the ingenuity and perseverance of one man. Locals derided New Hampshire native Sylvester Marsh’s “crazy” plan to go more than three miles and 3,600 feet up 6,288-foot Mount Washington, but on July 3, 1869, he proved the doubters wrong. Today, from late April through November, a little fleet of coal-fired and biodiesel locomotives still use “cog” (or toothed) gears to push as many as 70 passengers at a time at a slow crawl up the world’s oldest mountain cog railway. On a clear day, the views are stupendous. 

Rock of Ages |  Barre, VT

In the 1920s, when the first curious road-trippers began poking around, most quarrying operations posted “Keep Out” signs. Rock of Ages took the opposite approach, building a visitor center and launching a tour program. As many as 60,000 guests a year still line up to tour the world’s largest deep-hole dimension granite quarry, where derricks hoist blocks that weigh as much as half a million pints of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. At the visitor center you can watch a video about the quarrying and manufacturing processes, browse historic photos and exhibits, and shop for natural stone gifts. (Don’t worry about depleting the supply: It’s estimated that there’ll be plenty of stone to quarry for the next 4,500 years.) 

New England Scenic Strolls

Cliff walk | newport, ri.

In 1975 Newport’s fabled Cliff Walk was the first public path in New England to be designated a National Recreation Trail, but it had already been famous for over a century. It winds its way along Aquidneck’s cliffs past some of Newport’s most impressive and historic mansions above the rocky shore, meaning you can walk the same land that the Vanderbilts, the Astors, and Henry and William James once strolled. 

Flume Gorge |  Lincoln, NH

The Flume Gorge is what nature looks like in our dreams. Wooden walkways guide you through an 800-foot-long series of waterfalls that crash through this narrow crack in Mount Liberty, raising clouds of mist that float up to the forest floor 90 feet above. It’s easily the most enchanted spot in the already enchanted Franconia Notch, which features several magical lakes, the Old Man of the Mountain Historic Site, and innumerable waterfalls tumbling down the steep sides of Cannon and Lafayette mountains. 

Marginal Way |  Ogunquit, ME

Ogunquit gets its name from the Algonquin word for “beautiful place by the sea,” which is how native people described this flat, sandy 3½-mile stretch along the southern Maine coast. First, walk the beach to your heart’s content, inhaling therapeutic breaths of salty air. But leave some energy for the Marginal Way, a paved 1¼-mile path that leads from the main beach up the rugged cliffs to the shops and seafood restaurants in Perkins Cove. Be sure to take frequent breaks and soak in the views by taking a seat on any of the 30 memorial benches along the way. Out to sea you’ll spot sailboats, yachts, and lobster boats bobbing in the water. 

’Sconset Bluff Walk | Nantucket, MA

The village of ’Sconset is both a part of Nantucket and not. A mere eight miles from the hustle and bustle of the island’s center, this former fishing community retains most of Nantucket’s older, sleepier charm. One of the prettiest strolls on the eastern seaboard is here, too, a bluff walk that takes visitors behind grand homes and alongside towering beach cliffs. When it concludes, you can retrace your steps back to the village center or follow Baxter Road for a postcard-perfect ending at Sankaty Head Lighthouse. 

New England Seafood Feasts

Abbott’s lobster in the rough |  noank, ct.

In Noank’s fishing community, full of backyard gardens and harbor views at every turn, Abbott’s is a bona fide institution. Founded in 1947, it has just about anything a shellfish lover could desire, but it’s best known for a steamed lobster or Connecticut-style hot lobster roll. Abbott’s offers a quarter pound of warm, succulent lobster drizzled with butter and served on a toasted hamburger bun; those with heartier appetites are welcome to upsize to the seven-ounce “OMG” version or the full-pound “LOL.” 

Woodman’s and J.T. Farnham’s Clam Shacks | Essex, MA

The Essex River Basin is known for having the sweetest clams in New England, and if you drive into town after a day at the beach, you’ll no doubt find a line out the door at seafood specialist Woodman’s. Join the queue and you’ll soon smell the fryer; it’s here that the first fried clam is said to have been invented over a century ago. An alternative to Woodman’s is J.T. Farnham’s, a cozy seafood shack with views of the Essex River and sweet and briny clams harvested fresh from the cold Ipswich waters. Here, though, the clams are dipped in an egg wash and cornmeal before getting their hot oil bath, whereas at Woodman’s they’re coated with milk and corn flour. Either choice will make you reevaluate your relationship to bivalves. 

McLoons Lobster | South Thomaston, ME

Imagine the lobster shack of your dreams, and you’ll have a good picture of the family-run McLoons: a tiny red hut perched over the water with a tented patio and picnic tables. Across a small cove, another red building serves as the drop-off point for day boats. You couldn’t ask for a more perfect setting to enjoy homemade peach pie, coleslaw, burgers, and hot dogs. But the one thing you absolutely must have is the lobster roll, which is the best you’ll find in Maine. 

New England Must-See Village Landmarks

Harrisville designs | harrisville, nh.

Back in the early 1970s, the looms fell silent in this classic New England mill town. Then a descendant of the Colony family that had operated the mills for generations helped convert the brick structures into shops, offices, and lodgings. As one of the best-preserved textile mill villages in the United States, this site by a peaceful millpond is now a National Historic Landmark. Housed in a former 1850s wool storehouse, Harrisville Designs attracts visitors for its fine, handmade weaving accessories and crafts workshops. While you’re here, don’t miss the gourmet goodies at the Harrisville General Store. 

Red Lion Inn | Stockbridge, MA

While the world is full of verandas and breezeways and front stoops, there’s hardly a front porch comparable to that of the Red Lion Inn. Dating back to 1773, the sprawling Main Street structure is known for its authentic historic character, with a working birdcage elevator, converted telephone “booths” off the main lobby, period furnishings, and long list of high-profile guests, including five U.S. presidents. But the wicker-strewn front porch is inarguably its most photographed claim to fame. An army of rocking chairs stands sentinel behind columns, guaranteeing that no activity on Main Street goes unnoticed or unremarked. To sit and rock at the Red Lion is to understand precisely how longtime resident Norman Rockwell saw Stockbridge. 

The Vermont Country Store | Weston, VT

Looking for a flannel nightie, a manual typewriter, old-time candies … all in one store? That barely begins to describe the diversity of the inventory at this Vermont institution, founded in Weston in 1946; there’s also a second, newer location in Rockingham. You’ll find both the expected (maple syrup, wheels of cheddar) and the unexpected (pants stretchers, anyone?) in the aisles here. Plus, nostalgia is sold by the scoop at the shop’s sprawling penny-candy counter. From Mary Janes to Bit-O-Honeys to Root Beer Barrels, there are hundreds of options, all self-serve—just open a paper bag and get to work. 

To order a copy of Yankee’s New England Adventures (Globe Pequot, 2018)—or to stock up on back issues of Yankee as well as browse our collection of New England calendars, cookbooks, and gifts—go to: store.newengland.com

Yankee Magazine

Hidden Gems in New England: 15 Secret Places to Visit

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What are the best places to visit in New England ? While there are many popular and well-known destinations for a New England vacation , some of the finest spots are those that are lesser-known. These are the hidden gems in New England. Today, the secret’s out: these off-the-beaten-path destinations are little known vacation spots you’ll want to visit ASAP. 

We asked several fellow travel lovers to share their favorite New England hidden gems, and they delivered! We’ve added our own picks for unique things to do in New England, too. Have you been to any of these spots?

PS: These make great New England road trip stops!

Hidden Gems in New England

Wilmington, vermont.

Bristol, Rhode Island

Bristol, Rhode Island is a historic town located on the bay in the smallest state in the nation.  While not near as popular as Providence or Newport , Bristol has a wide array of things to do for people with varying interests.

Most notably, Bristol is the location of the oldest Fourth of July parade in the entire country!  The first celebration took place in Bristol in 1777!  That being said, July is a wonderful time to go to Bristol to truly appreciate both nature and the town’s extravagant festivities.

There are a number of mansions, similar to those in Newport (but without the crowds!) to tour and indulge in the local history. 

If you’re a nature buff, there are also parks to explore – try Colt State Park for the town beach, playgrounds for the kids, as well as yoga classes and walking paths.

Being a port town, be sure to check out Herreshoff Maritime Museum for exhibits on sailing and America’s Cup tournament.

If you happen to find yourself in the smallest state in the U.S., be sure to include Bristol in your itinerary for an off-the-beaten path experience.

-Contributed by Jade Laurenza, The Migrant Yogi

Camden, Maine

Concord, Massachusetts

A thirty-minute drive outside of Boston could bring you to Concord, MA , a town that is home to American history, arts, and multiple nature retreats.

To begin your journey, head to Walden Pond, where Henry David Thoreau lived for 2 years. The 61-acre pond is an oasis surrounded by trees and serves as a cooling respite in summer months. Thoreau and his buddy Ralph Waldo Emerson often walked on a nearby footpath that leads to the pond, now known as Emerson-Thoreau Amble. Another literary giant, Louisa May Alcott grew up in this town and her home, Orchard House, is also open to visitors.

It may be a coincidence, but right next to the abodes of these writers are two natural sights that are worth half a day’s time. Minute Man Historical National Park and the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge are both great options for those who enjoy history, nature, and birdwatching.

Only ten minutes away, in the nearby town of Lincoln is the deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum, a one of its kind park displaying contemporary art and sculptures. All of these attractions make spending a day or two in Concord, MA more than worth the while. 

-Contributed by Bharat and Supriya, Fun Travelog

Middletown, Rhode Island

You might think of Middletown as a tourist location and you would be right for the most part. The summer has an influx of people filling up its two beaches, Second and Third.

Being so close to world-renowned Newport, there definitely is a lot of traffic in the summer. There are however some pretty amazing spots that aren’t as bustling and especially wonderful during the off-season. Sachuest Wildlife Refuge is one. I’ve lived in Rhode Island most of my life and never knew it was there until this year!

It’s a great family area to see the coastline, learn about local marine life or enjoy an easy, beautiful hike. Even though the grounds aren’t so large, you feel far removed from the action when you are here.

For the bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, the Normand Bird Sanctuary is another great hiking location close by to Sachuest not to be missed.

You should visit Sweet Berry Farm while in town. It offers fresh produce, a market place with prepared foods and made to order goods to dine in or take home. You can’t beat the freshness and quality of the food here. It is top-notch. If you like Middle Eastern food, grab a bite at International Pocket Cafe, it never lets my tastebuds down. While in Middletown, you can go to Newport Vineyards to relax at the winery or watch a polo match outside. 

-Contributed by Crystal Young, Kid Friendly New England

Bennington, Vermont

Bennington is a true hidden gem in Vermont. Located in the southwestern region of the state, Bennington is nestled in a beautiful valley and is filled with lots of important history.

For adventure lovers, I highly recommend taking a hike up to either the white rocks or Bald Mountain. This hike is almost 11 miles round trip, but it is  so  worth it because the views are incredibly rewarding.

The downtown area is also very unique. There are a lot of local shops and no name-brand businesses are allowed in Bennington’s downtown. Be sure to stop at the Village Chocolate Shoppe and the Bennington Bookshop, two of my favorites.

Lastly, if you love history, go up to the Bennington Battle Monument , which was put in place to commemorate the Battle of Bennington which was fought during the Revolutionary War. It only costs $5 for adults to climb/take an elevator to the top and $1 for children!

-Contributed by Krystianna Pietrzak, Volumes & Voyages

Jackson, New Hampshire

-Contributed by Kelsey Converse

Menemsha, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Castine, Maine

Castine, Maine is a beautiful seaside village located on a peninsula in Penobscot Bay. It is also one of the oldest communities in Maine with a history dating back to the 1600s. It is very off-the-beaten-path but you should absolutely add this quaint little town to your New England Itinerary. You will love the mid-19th-century homes in the city center that will bring you back in time.

Castine is the perfect place to unwind as it is extremely quiet. This doesn’t mean there is nothing to do and you will enjoy all the activities it has to offer. Spend a beach day on Backshore Beach or Wadsworth Cove, you can also kayak in the peninsula, rent a boat or just go hiking in Witherle Woods.

There are also a lot of things to do in Castine city center, from visiting historical landmarks such as Fort George and Fort Madisson to enjoying the main street or one of the restaurants, especially Pentagoet Inn, located in a 19th-century Inn.

-Contributed by Lucile Hernandez Rodriguez

Greenville, Maine

You can explore the Lily Bay State Park, bike to the top of Mount Kineo, do whitewater rafting , and ride around the lake in a 1914 steamboat. For fishing enthusiasts, fly fishing and lake fishing are always an option. And if you go in winter, you can do cross-country skiing and ice fishing. You can even see a dog sledding race. You can take advantage of sightseeing flights on seaplanes offered by several companies. They take off and land on Moosehead Lake. You can visit the Moosehead Marine Museum to learn the history of steamboating on Maine’s biggest lake.

-Contributed by Deb Pati, The Visa Project

Deer Isle, Maine

Deer Isle, Maine is one the best Maine hidden gems when it comes to coastal towns . It’s both a small town and the name of a charming island in Penobscot Bay is laid back. Deer Isle is full of unspoiled nature reserves and is a paradise for all outdoor travellers. Even in peak-season, the island is low-key and quaint with a friendly, rustic, small-town feel.

One of the best attractions are Deer Isle’s calm waters which are perfect for even an inexperienced kayaker. There are several options for renting equipment if you don’t have your own and even guided kayaking excursions can be booked on the island. Driftwood Kayak is an excellent resource for either and they have a range of itineraries for different skill levels.

Once you’re back in town from hiking the nature reserves or kayaking around the island, there’s plenty to entertain you. Popular Stonington Opera House Arts is a historic community venue for performances, art shows and even trivia nights. The town also has local vendors selling homemade products like Nelly’s Jams and Jellies. In Deer Isle, you can’t help but fall in love with the simple downeast Maine way of life.

-Contributed by Derek and Mike, Robe Trotting

Editor’s Picks for Hidden Gems of New England

Woodstock, connecticut.

Tucked away in Connecticut’s Quiet Corner, Woodstock CT seems to fly under the radar of beautiful New England destinations. This tiny town is home to some neat attractions like historic Roseland Cottage and Loos Center for the Arts , and there’s even a winery and brewery there, too!

If you’re looking for New England vacation spots where you can get away from all the hustle and bustle of daily life and take things nice and slow, Woodstock CT is it. It’s also home to the gorgeous Inn at Woodstock Hill , so if you’re looking for the perfect place for your next romantic getaway, definitely consider this beautiful spot!

Littleton, New Hampshire

Somehow this little (couldn’t resist!) town in New Hampshire remains one of the best kept secret vacation spots! Littleton is sometimes referred to as the Glad Town because it was home to the author of the Pollyanna books. A statue of Pollyanna welcomes tourists downtown, its arms flung wide and a welcoming smile emblazoned on her face; if you’re looking for small town charm off the beaten path, Littleton has it!

There are beautiful hiking trails, a classic New England covered bridge, the quintessential Main Street USA experience, and more, including a historic hotel that is the perfect place to rest your head after a day spent exploring the little hidden gem of Littleton!

Off the Beaten Path New England Things to Do

Stay (and work) at a vermont farm.

Fat Sheep Farm in Hartland Vermont offers an incredible real-life New England farm experience by renting out their lovely cabins to those looking to have a unique experience in Vermont! You can help feed the animals, milk the sheep, collect eggs from the chickens, and more during  your sampling of life at a New England farm. You can read more about our experience here, Fat Sheep Farm: The Perfect Vermont Farm Stay . This is definitely one of the top hidden family vacation spots and experiences, too, so if you’re looking for unique things to do in New England with kids, add this to the list!

Stay in a Historic Gingerbread House Tower in the Berkshires

There are so many unique places to stay in New England, with vacation rentals , bed and breakfasts , c ozy cabins , and luxury hotels that offer just about every kind of experience a person could want, but sometimes you come across a place that is so intriguing that it gets added to the Must Visit in New England list right off the bat! That’s the historic Gingerbread House Tower in Lee, offering a true fairy tale stay in one of the most beautiful hidden places in Massachusetts!

• 19 New England Flower Fields, Farms, and Gardens You Will Love!
• 15 Cathedrals and Churches in New England Worth Visiting

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

14 Gorgeous Beaches To Visit In New England

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• New England
• United States

Squishing your toes into sparkling white, sugar-fine sand while waves caress the shoreline is the ultimate summertime getaway. In New England, we relish the lazy days of our short summer and schedule multiple beach-centric days into our busy schedules. With miles and miles of coastline, there are seemingly endless strings of gorgeous beaches. From the rugged coast of Maine to shapeshifting dunes of Cape Cod’s National Seashore, New England has a beach to suit every sun-worshiping beach bum.

Listed below are my favorite beaches across New England — each one is special in its own best beach way. They are listed in no particular order.

1. Sand Beach

Bar harbor, maine.

The diminutive Sand Beach is a cove-style beach in Acadia National Park. After a day exploring Cadillac Mountain, enjoy a quiet respite at this pretty little beach. The ocean water in Maine is very cold, rarely reaching 55 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months. As you can guess, swimming is more like jumping in and out of the waves and not full water immersion.

Pro Tip: Acadia National Park is adjacent to Bar Harbor , where many park visitors anchor their getaway stay.

2. Old Orchard Beach

Old orchard, maine.

A beautiful, 7-mile stretch of sand, Old Orchard Beach is one of Maine’s most popular beaches. Perfect for shaking off the winter blues and soaking up the glorious summer sun, Old Orchard Beach is a wonderful spot for swimming (yes, it’s cold), beach volleyball, building sand castles, or simply walking along the tideline.

Pro Tip: Old Orchard Beach is a favorite New England beach town of our neighbors to the north. You will often encounter French Canadian conversations on the beach towel next to yours.

3. Ogunquit Beaches

Ogunquit, maine.

Three beaches combine to make up the Ogunquit Beaches . Main Beach, Footbridge Beach, and North Beach come together to make up 3 miles of white sandy goodness. The charming town of Ogunquit enjoys a lively art scene. Filled with galleries, theaters, and great dining spots, you will have lots of choices for your evening entertainment.

Pro Tip: Take a stroll along the Marginal Way , a picturesque walkway where you can sit back and enjoy the stunning views on one of the 39 benches along the 1.25-mile-long pathway.

4. Coast Guard Beach

Eastham, massachusetts.

The most popular beach on the Cape Cod National Seashore is definitely Coast Guard Beach . This beloved beach gets crowded early and stays crowded all day long — for good reason. The beach is gorgeous. It is the beginning of an uninterrupted 20-mile sandy coastline hemmed in by dunes covered in windblown seagrass.

Pro Tip: Your National Park Pass will allow you to park for free at Coast Guard Beach. Non-resident parking is at Little Creek where you can then take a shuttle to the beach.

5. Wingaersheek Beach

Gloucester, massachusetts.

Beautiful Wingaersheek Beach is perched on Massachusetts’s north shore in the charming city of Gloucester. The white sand beach is perfect for a long walk along the shore or a scramble up the interesting rock formations. As you are enjoying your beach day, it is fun to dream of owning one of the stunning summer vacation homes perched high above the shoreline.

Pro Tip: Prepaid reserved parking is required at Wingaersheek Beach. Reservations are required for non-residents and can be made up to 10 days in advance.

6. Good Harbor Beach

Good Harbor Beach , the other Gloucester beach, is long and wide at low tide with inviting soft sand where you will want to spend the entire day; perhaps the entire summer.

Pro Tip: Good Harbor Beach has a fairly large parking lot and can accommodate several vehicles. Pre-paid parking reservations are required.

7. Singing Beach

Manchester-by-the-sea, massachusetts.

Singing Beach is so named because it “sings” as you scuffle across the sand. When the conditions are right, the friction of your feet across the sand creates a squeak; a unique phenomenon. This small beach is worth a visit just to see if you can make it sing.

Pro Tip: The parking lot is small. It is best to visit Singing Beach during the shoulder season when you can park and enjoy the uncrowded shoreline. In the off-season, the local four-legged fur babies love chasing the waves. 

8. Mayflower Beach

Dennis, massachusetts.

When you find yourself on the north side of Cape Cod, Mayflower Beach is the spot to see and be seen. Deep soft sand and playful waves come together to make this beach a popular spot for sunbathing and water play along Cape Cod Bay. You will want to spend the entire day here, pack up your wagon with beach toys, lunch, blankets, and your favorite read.

Pro Tip: The large parking lot fills up early on a beautiful beach day.

9. Oak Bluffs Town Beach

Oak bluffs, massachusetts.

Flying Horses Carousel and charming gingerbread cottages are the hallmarks of Martha’s Vineyard’s Oak Bluffs. Oak Bluffs Town Beach is a pretty 1-mile-long beach perfect for spending the day and enjoying the ocean waves. When you are visiting Martha’s Vineyard , enjoying the beach is just one piece of the getaway.

Pro Tip: If you stay in Oak Bluffs, you can avoid beach parking and walk to the beach.

10. Ballard’s Beach

New shoreham, rhode island.

On the shores of Block Island is Ballard’s Beach , a soft white sandy beach filled with happy vacationers enjoying their work break. Rent a cabana, grab a fruity drink from the tiki bar, have lunch at the restaurant, and dance the day away to live music. Ballard’s Beach has a hip, happening vibe.

Pro Tip: The beach is a short walk from Old Harbor. You can take the ferry over and enjoy a Block Island day trip.  

11. Narragansett Town Beach

Narragansett, rhode island.

Narragansett Town Beach is located in the heart of Narragansett. Walking along the soft sand is the best way to get in your steps. There is plenty of room for blanket space to enjoy the waves and build sandcastles. There is also a designated surf area to try your hand at riding the waves or you can watch the entertaining show of others trying to stay on their board.

Pro Tip: Our Narragansett guide will give you lots of ideas on how to spend your day in this lovely coastal town.

12. Easton’s Beach

Newport, rhode island.

Located at the start of Newport’s iconic Cliff Walk is Easton’s Beach , also known as First Beach to local residents. The beautiful sandy beach stretches for 0.75 miles along the Atlantic shoreline.

Pro Tip: Mansions, dining, and history — there is so much to do and see in Newport you will want to spend several days exploring.

13. Hampton Beach

Hampton, new hampshire.

Hampton Beach sits along New Hampshire’s tiny strip of coastline. It is a bustling beach filled with happy beachgoers. From concerts to festivals, fireworks to competitions, there is always something happening at Hampton Beach.

Pro Tip: The Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Competition takes place in June each year. It is an amazing display of artistic talent.

14. Hammonasset Beach State Park

Madison, connecticut.

The pink sands of Hammonasset Beach State Park and the 2-mile stretch of shoreline attract sunbathers from across New England. The sand on the west end of the beach has a high concentration of garnet which gives the beach a pink hue — unusual for a northeastern beach.

Pro Tip: Typically in August, the water at Hammonasset Beach is filled with jellyfish making swimming a little challenging.

Beautiful New England Beaches

The beautiful beaches in New England bring out the best of the summer season. From Maine’s rugged and sandy coastline to Connecticut’s sugar sand beaches, you will love exploring these picturesque toes-in-the-sand getaways.

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Fall , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  June 7, 2023

The PERFECT New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary: 3, 5, 7, 10 & 12 Day Options! (2024)

There’s a reason why New England is world-famous for fall foliage, and if you’re looking to plan the most amazing New England fall road trip, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve been traveling throughout this region for over 15 years, and have done quite a few fall foliage road trips and even more fall getaways. It took me a while, but I’ve finally put together the perfect itinerary for you based on real experience.

This post details the best places to visit in New England during fall foliage season that are worth the hype, the best times to plan your road trip, and also, which places may not be worth your time. So, you can rest assured that you’re truly seeing the best of the best with my itinerary.

This itinerary is also geared toward first-timers and those looking to find the best foliage spots . If you’ve experienced New England in the fall season before, many of these locations and tips may already be familiar. However, I’ve also sprinkled in some insider tips, so it’s still definitely worth reading 😉

During this trip, prepare to see idyllic countryside landscapes, blazing fall color, beautiful covered bridges, charming towns, general stores, epic overlooks and hiking trails, and so much more. Basically, you’ll get your fill of New England charm right from the start, and it won’t stop until the trip is over. Sound good? Then let’s get started!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Tips For Planning A Trip To New England In The Fall

There are some important things to know before you begin to plan your perfect New England fall road trip, so let’s get that out of the way first 😉

The first thing you need to know is that foliage will peak in the northern areas first, then peak in the southern areas later . For that reason, I recommend that you start in the north if you can, especially for a longer trip, but it’s not always necessary for shorter trips.

If you’re planning a bucket list 2-week adventure, starting in the north is a good call because peak foliage can begin to diminish quickly, depending on the season and climate patterns. However, if you’re traveling for closer to a week, this won’t be as important.

I go into peak foliage times in each region in a bit, so definitely be sure to read that through, too!

Another important thing to know is that you should anticipate all kinds of weather. I’ve done many fall road trips through this region, and have had warm, sunny days, and trips where it rained almost every single day. I’ll go more into what to pack for this trip at the end of the post to help you prepare, but this is a good thing to be aware of.

Also, book in advance . I can’t stress this enough. Hotels and accommodations book out well in advance for fall foliage season in prime areas, and these prime areas are where you’ll be heading! If possible, begin to book your hotels at least 6 months in advance, but even 8 months is better. For reference, while I began to plan my Vermont fall road trip for the 2023 season, my favorite place to stay in Stowe, VT was fully booked during peak foliage weeks – in FEBRUARY. Yep, February.

Offline Google Maps! I can’t tell you how important this is! Even as recent as a fall 2022 road trip, I barely had service through much of New Hampshire and Vermont. I spent a lot of time just driving around hoping my service would come back, or asking people for directions the old-fashioned way. I usually offline maps, but totally forgot that trip, and it was a harsh reminder that this is a must-do.

Lastly, prepare to pay . Yes, the sad truth is that peak foliage season in New England is expensive, and it won’t be your most budget-friendly trip ever. There are ways to keep costs down, and I’ll go more into that later in the post as well, but generally speaking, this is an expensive time to visit New England – at least, where the foliage is the best 😉

What Is The Best Time To Visit New England For Fall Color?

In a nutshell, the last week of September, or the first week of October. However, it does vary depending on where you’re heading.

As mentioned before, the colors will begin to change in the northern regions first, and then the southern regions will follow later. Most people will choose to visit Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont during their New England fall road trip (and spoiler alert: this is also where I’ll be suggesting you go!), so this timeframe works very well for these areas.

The central part of Vermont will often peak right around Indigenous People’s weekend in October, and for a getaway to popular towns like Stowe and Woodstock, this is the perfect weekend to plan your trip.

Massachusetts often peaks right around Indigenous People’s weekend as well, with southern MA peaking a week or so later.

The greater Boston area, and Connecticut will peak mid-late October, depending on the year.

How Many Days Do You Need In New England In The Fall?

The great thing about New England in the fall is that you can easily do a weekend getaway and still pack a lot in, or you can plan an epic 12 day road trip for the ultimate adventure. And either way, it’s going to be incredibly memorable.

If you’re coming in from a distance, especially if you’re flying in, I would say 10 days is a great option, 12 days is even better, and 7 days is also wonderful. Of course, with 12 days, you’ll be able to see so much or plan extra time in some places. But even with 7 days, you’ll get to see quite a bit.

If you’re local to New England, and don’t have 10 days, 7 days is again a nice sweet spot. 5 days will also work in this case. And, as mentioned, even a weekend away will allow you to experience some of the best this region has to offer in the fall season.

The great thing about the best places for fall foliage are located in some of the smallest states, so you can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.

Best Places To See On A New England Fall Road Trip

While every New England state has something special to offer during fall foliage season, for the purpose of seeing the absolute best spots, I recommend sticking to Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire and Vermont . And flying into Boston.

Because these areas offer the most spectacular displays of foliage, most picturesque scenery, tons of things to do, and they’re all reasonable close to one another, allowing you to maximize your time.

Here’s why I don’t necessarily recommend states like Connecticut or Rhode Island if you have less than 10 days – they’re further away from the best places to see in the fall.

I truly love every single New England state, and I do really enjoy Connecticut in the fall. However, it’s so far west that you’ll spend more time driving to get there, and possibly forgoing some really spectacular places in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont.

If you have 10 days or more for a New England fall road trip, then I would highly suggest you consider adding in the Litchfield Hills regions of Connecticut , which you’ll see I included in my itinerary. It’s also very close to The Berkshires region, so you can combine it with that part of the trip, depending on how much time you have. However, with less than 10 days, I personally don’t feel like it’s worth it. Especially for first-timers.

If you’ve already seen some of the places I’m recommending in this post, then definitely try to swing over to Connecticut and experience a new area during the fall!

If you have less than 10 days, you may even want to focus all your time on Vermont and New Hampshire. The reason for this is because some of the best places for fall foliage in Maine are further north. I think places like Acadia National Park are very worth seeing (and you’ll see I’ve incorporated it into some of my itineraries!). However, if you prefer a slower pace and less driving, Vermont and New Hampshire are the absolute best places to see .

Some Things To Know About My Itineraries

They all begin in Boston , assuming that’s where most people will fly into if visiting from a distance. If you fly into a different airport, or are driving in, you can easily adjust your plans as needed.

They’re done in true road trip style , meaning there’s a lot of driving, and mostly 1-night stays. There are some places I recommend 2 nights in, but you can adjust this based on your preferences. If you want to stay longer in one place, definitely go for it!

I give you options! Of course, I stand by all my suggestions ☺️ However, I know everyone has different travel styles and speeds, so I encourage you to to tailor this to what you think you’ll enjoy the most. I’ve given you suggestions on how to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences.

10 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary From Boston

Okay, let’s get into my perfect New England fall road trip itinerary options! We’re beginning with my suggestions for an incredible 10 day adventure.

10 Day Road Trip Overview

Day 1 : Arrival In Boston Day 2 : Explore Boston Or Take A Day Trip To Salem Day 3-4 : Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park + An Optional Stop In Salem Day 5 : Jackson, NH Day 6 : Franconia, NH (Driving The Famous Kancamagus Highway To Get There!) Days 7-8 : Stowe & Woodstock, VT Day 9 : The Berkshires and/or Litchfield, CT Day 10 : Back To Boston + A Stop In Sturbridge, MA or Litchfield, CT

Breakdown Of The 10 Day Itinerary Option

Day 1: Arrival In Boston Take this time to arrive, get settled, and maybe take in a few sites around the city! Have some time on your first night here? Jump down to Day 2 for some suggestions on what to do!

Where To Stay In Boston:

• Luxury : The Langham
• Splurge : Boston Harbor Hotel
• Moderate : Revere Boston Common

Pro Tip On Fall Foliage In Boston : Foliage peaks later than the rest of the places listed in this itinerary – usually mid-late October. So while you probably won’t see peak foliage in Boston if you plan your trip for peak foliage in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, it may catch a glimpse of it on your back if you’re planning a longer trip! Or, you can leave the airport to immediately begin your drive to Maine, and plan to stay a night or two in Boston before you have to fly out.

Day 2: Explore Boston

Boston during the fall season has so much to see and do, but here are some highlights to consider if it’s your first visit:

• Public Gardens (very scenic garden area with a beautiful pond and pedestrian bridge (also makes for lovely photos!). This is a good spot for fall foliage in the city, too.
• Newbury Street for shopping
• The North End for history and food
• Beacon Hill for charming cobblestoned streets at the famous Acorn Street
• Take a food tour if it works with your schedule. There’s incredible food to be had in Boston, and taking a tour with a local expert is a great way to sample lots of delicious things in a short amount of time!

Click here to check out my post on the best Boston food tours!

Day 2: Optional Day Trip To Salem

If you would prefer to take a day trip to Salem, rather than stopping on your way to Acadia National Park, this is a great option! And really, there’s no right or wrong choice here – it just comes down to which you prefer.

Salem is an easy day trip from Boston without a car because of this convenient ferry! Click here to check out the Boston → Salem Ferry!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

Day 3: Drive To Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the best things to do in New England year-round, so this is definitely a must if you’ve never been. It also offers some really wonderful foliage, and fall is my personal favorite season to visit for this reason.

This drive from Boston to Bar Harbor takes about 5 hours without stops, which is why I usually suggest you make a pitstop to break up your journey. I actually have some posts on stops you can make along the drive, so be sure to check those out below.

But since Salem is really the ultimate fall destination in Massachusetts, I suggest you pick that as a stop on the drive 🙂

Bar Harbor is the town adjacent to Acadia National Park , and where most people will choose to stay when visiting. Once you arrive, take some time to get settled, and then head out into downtown Bar Harbor to explore this charming seaside town, visit the shops, and grab a great dinner!

Where To Stay In Bar Harbor:

• Bayview Hotel . An oceanfront boutique hotel with awesome views. Perfect for a splurge on your trip!
• Bar Harbor Villager Motel . Clean, updated and spacious. Also, walkable to everything in town.
• Little Fig Hotel . A cute, modern boutique hotel walkable to town.

Here are some posts that will help you further plan this portion of your trip:

• Best Stops To Make Driving Boston To Portland, Maine
• Best Stops To Make Driving Portland to Acadia National Park
• The Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary (read this one for more information on Bar Harbor and things to do!)
• Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park

Day 4: Explore Acadia National Park

Even in just 1 day, you can visit some of the best places in the park, and also some really wonderful fall foliage spots. Here how I suggest you plan your day:

If you’re up for it , starting your day with sunrise at the top of Cadillac Mountain is always incredible! It’s one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise, depending on the time of year, and starting October 7 through March, it’s the very first spot in the country to see the sun come up. This will be great for fall foliage, too. You can also choose to do this the following morning before leaving.

Next, head to the Jesup Path scenic walk , which is especially beautiful in the fall season.

Then, park at the Sand Beach parking lot , and walk the Ocean Path for incredible views . This is 1-mile each way, but offers some of the most iconic views in the park, including the Otter Cliffs and Thunder Hole. It’s also flat and easy, making it very relaxing. Have your camera ready for this one!

For a more advanced hike with awesome foliage views, you can do the Beehive Trail from Sand Beach lot, too.

Continue on Park Loop Road to Jordan Pond House for lunch , and enjoy the views of the pond and mountains. You can also choose to walk around the pond if you have time after lunch.

For more foliage views, hike the Bubble Rock Trail after lunch.

Day 5: Drive To Jackson, NH + Spend The Night

Without stops, this drive takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes.

One stop I suggest making on the way if you enjoy local craft beer is the Oxbow Beer Garden in Oxford , ME . It’s got a very cool outdoor setting, and they have fantastic craft beer.

I recommend spending the night in Jackson because it’s a longer drive from Bar Harbor, and there are some fun things to do in the area. Also, there’s a very scenic drive called The Kancamagus Highway that’s stunning in the fall season with foliage, and I want to make sure you have time to drive it. But more on that in Day 6 🙂

Here are some fun fall things to check out in Jackson:

• The Cog : This mountain railroad takes you to the summit of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in New England! It’s about 45 minutes from Jackson, but you’ll drive through Crawford Notch State Park , which is very scenic, and The Cog is simply incredible in the fall season. If you leave Bar Harbor early enough and have time to do this, I highly recommend it!
• Honeymoon Covered Bridge & Flossie’s General Store
• Glen Ellis Falls
• The cute town of North Conway

Where To Stay In Jackson:

• Christmas Farm Inn (this place is super cozy!)
• The Inn At Thorn Hill & Spa

Option To Stay In North Conway : North Conway is only about 12-15 minutes from Jackson, so you can really stay in either. I think Jackson has better hotel options, and it’s a bit closer to The Cog, which is why I suggested you stay there. But either town works for your New England fall road trip!

Here are some fun things to check out in North Conway if you choose to visit:

• Cathedral Ledge Distillery
• Ledge Brewing Company (between North Conway and Jackson, technically)
• The cute downtown area and Zeb’s General Store (one of my all-time favorite general stores!)
• North Conway Scenic Railroad

Day 6 – Drive The Kancamagus Highway To Franconia, NH

The Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) is a scenic drive that’s regarded as one of the best drives for fall foliage, so this is something you’ll definitely want to do on your New England fall road trip. It connects the towns of Woodstock and Conway, so you can easily start this drive just a few minutes from Jackson or North Conway.

For this day, I suggest you get up early to make sure you have time to explore Franconia Notch State Park after driving The Kanc.

Tips For Driving The Kanc:

• Remember earlier in the post when I said you’ll lose cell service in much of New Hampshire and Vermont? Well, this is one of those drives where there’s no service, so offline your maps before starting!
• There are no bathrooms or gas stations on the drive, so plan accordingly.
• The Kanc takes about 45 minutes one-way without stops, but you’ll want to budget about 2 hours to make some stops at the overlooks.
• During the fall season, especially on weekends, it’s possible traffic could slow down as people try to pull in and out of the parking areas. Plan for some slower traffic.

Pro Tip : Before hopping onto The Kanc, there’s a great little place called Cheese Louise just before the entrance to The Kanc, and this is an awesome place to grab some food before the drive! Especially on a chilly, fall day, a grilled cheese sandwich totally hits the spot, right? 😍

Stops To Make On The Kanc (in order from Conway to Woodstock):

• Albany Covered Bridge
• Rocky Gorge Scenic Area (parking can be found at 44.0016667175862, -71.27716637107925)
• Sabbaday Falls
• Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook
• CL Graham Wangan Overlook
• Hancock Overlook (this one is right at the famous hairpin turn – can’t miss it!)
• Lincoln Woods Trailhead – Scenic suspension bridge over the river that’s not far from the parking lot.

🍁 Before hopping on The Kanc, consider downloading this great audio tour to enhance your drive – Click here to check out this audio tour!

There are also tons of hiking trails along The Kanc , so if you’re looking to squeeze in a hike on the drive, this is something to consider. But if you don’t have extra time, I would suggest moving on to Franconia Notch State Park, and only doing hikes along The Kanc if you’re able to add an extra day in.

After The Kanc, your next stop is Franconia Notch State Park . And this is where most of the top things to do are , especially in the fall season .

Flume Gorge is one thing I recommend you do if you can only pick one attraction. Flume Gorge is a very fun 2-mile loop trail that takes you over 2 covered bridges, and through the granite gorge. Along the trail, you’ll have some really gorgeous spots to admire the fall foliage, too.

Not sure if this is right for your itinerary? Click here to check out my detailed post in if Flume Gorge is worth visiting , and everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.

Pro Tip: Buy your Flume Gorge ticket online in advance to save a few bucks! On weekends in the fall season, it’s also possible that certain time slots will sell out. This is another reason to book in advance.

If you have time to explore more of Franconia Notch State Park, I also recommend these activities:

• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
• Artist Bluff Trail (famous spot that ends overlooking Echo Lake – amazing during foliage season!)
• The views at Echo Lake Beach

Where To Stay Near Franconia:

• Sugar Hill Inn – 15 mins from Franconia Notch Park, and is rated as the best B&B in New Hampshire!
• Riverwalk Resort – 5-7 mins from the top attractions in Franconia.
• Woodstock Inn & Brewery – Cozy inn with a brewery.

Here are some posts to help you plan this portion of your trip:

• Fun Things To Do In Franconia, NH
• Fun Things To Do In Littleton, NH
• Fun Things To Do In Lincoln, NH
• Where To Stay In New Hampshire In The Fall
• Where To Stay In The White Mountains: Guide To The Towns

Day 7 – Drive To Stowe Or Woodstock, VT

Begin your day in New Hampshire with a country breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor! This place is famous in New England, and truly has some of the most amazing pancakes I’ve ever had. It does get busy in the fall season, but man, it’s so worth it.

Then, on to Vermont you go! For the next 2 nights, you’ll want to choose between Stowe and Woodstock, VT as your home base. These towns are the absolute best to visit in Vermont during a New England fall road trip because of foliage views and small-town charm. They’re only 1 hour and 15 minutes from each other, so, you can choose where you want to stay, and then visit the other as a day trip.

The drive to both Stowe and Woodstock is 1 hour and 30 minutes from Franconia , and since this is a shorter drive, you can make some stops along the way, or drive straight there. Stowe and Woodstock both have a lot to do, even though they’re small towns, so it’s beneficial to drive straight there and make sure you have plenty of time to explore.

If you choose to stay in Woodstock, I suggest stopping at the King Arthur Baking Company campus on your way because it’s pretty much on the direct route. It’s a really fun place with fresh baked goods and breads, a café, and a fun shop where you can stock up on pantry staples and baking mixes.

Do I recommend you stay in Stowe or Woodstock? I honestly love both equally! There’s no wrong choice here.

The biggest difference between the two is that Woodstock feels a bit more upscale, and Stowe definitely has a very casual feel to it. But the difference is minor. Both have charming covered bridges, great shops, amazing restaurants, a quaint town feel, and plenty of things to do.

Where To Stay In Stowe :

• The Green Mountain Inn . It’s located right on Main Street, so you can walk to a lot of places.
• Spruce Peak Resort . Perfect for those wanting a resort feel, and it’s right off the scenic Smugglers Notch drive. There are rooms with gorgeous mountain views here, too.

Where To Stay In Woodstock :

• The Woodstock Inn & Resort . It’s referred to as Vermont’s most beautiful address, and it’s in the heart of Woodstock’s village. This is a luxury hotel that’s worth it!
• 506 Inn On The River . Located just outside of the village, this is a modern and cozy inn, well … right on the river 😉

Here are some posts that will help you plan your time in Stowe and Woodstock:

• Best Things To Do In Stowe
• Best Things To Do In Woodstock

Day 8 – Explore Stowe & Woodstock, VT

Depending on where you stay, you’ll want to take a day trip to the other town this day. Below are breakdowns of the can’t miss things to do in each town .

Best Things To Do In Stowe :

• Explore the cute shops along Main Street (don’t skip the Stowe Mercantile!)
• Drive Smugglers Notch for amazing foliage.
• Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont (this is epic during the fall season!). This is located at the midway point along the Smugglers Notch drive.
• Visit Emily’s Covered Bridge, and learn about it’s spooky history.
• Sample the hard cider at Stowe Cider.
• Sip on craft brews at Alchemist Brewing (one of my favorites in New England).

Best Things To Do In Woodstock:

• Stroll through the charming downtown shops and eateries.
• Pop into Mon Vert Café for a warm drink.
• Snap a photo with Middle Covered Bridge in town.
• Drive over Taftsville Covered Bridge to visit Sugarbush Farms. You’ll be able to sample homemade cheese and fresh maple syrup here, and also take in amazing foliage views.
• Visit Billings Farm & Museum.
• Drive over to Sleepy Hollow Farm to see the famous farm landscape spot.

Day 9 – Drive To The Berkshires Or Litchfield, CT

Next up – The Berkshires or Connecticut! This choice is yours entirely. Let’s start with the option to drive to The Berkshires.

The Berkshires is an iconic region in Massachusetts that’s a really great one to visit for fall foliage. Here, you’ll find cute towns, loads of fall color, lots of scenic hikes and walks, and awesome dining options.

Depending on which town in Vermont you’re coming from, the northern region of The Berkshires area will be just over 2 hours from Woodstock, or just over 3 hours from Stowe .

The drive from either town to The Berkshires will pass through Rockingham, VT, and you’ll definitely want to stop here to visit the Vermont Country Store! There’s also the very cute Kissing Covered Bridge here that makes for a fun photo.

Once you arrive in The Berkshires, I suggest you start in Williamstown, and drive the scenic Route 7 down to Sheffield. This drive without stops takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but I would budget at least a few hours to make stops and enjoy some other fun activities. This route packs a lot into a perfect fall day, without a lot of driving.

During this drive, these are the best stops to make:

• The Mount Greylock Auto Road to the highest peak in Massachusetts (absolutely amazing in the fall season!).
• Make a detour off Route 7 to Bartlett’s Orchard in Richmond for the perfect fall farm experience.
• Continue with your short detour to Hilltop Orchards, which is 5 minutes from Bartlett’s, and where you can sip on artisanal craft ciders!
• Walk through the charming town of Lenox.
• Stroll through quaint Stockbridge, too!
• Snap photos with the covered bridge in Sheffield.

Where To Stay In The Berkshires:

• The Red Lion Inn . A historic and famous inn in the heart of Stockbridge.
• The Dewey . A cozy, traditional New England B&B in Lenox.

The other option is to drive to Litchfield, CT , which is south of The Berkshires. It’s a longer drive from Vermont, but you could also turn this into a fun road trip day by driving the same Route 7 itinerary as mentioned above through The Berkshires, and then continue on to the Litchfield Hills. I would probably only choose this option if you wanted to take your time exploring the awesome stops along Route 7 in The Berkshires, arrive in CT in the evening, and then explore this region of CT the next morning before your drive back to Boston.

How To Spend Your Time In Litchfield Hill, CT:

Since you’re likely coming down through the western border of Massachusetts, I would start in Kent, and work your way east. You probably won’t have time to do everything on this list, but pick and choose based on your preferences and schedule.

• Explore the cute town of Kent, and then visit Kent Falls State Park if you have time.
• Continue to follow Route 7 to New Milford. The drive is very scenic!
• Stop in New Milford to enjoy the quaint town, and then visit Lover’s Leap Bridge.
• Head over to Washington, and then continue on to Mount Tom State Park for awesome foliage.
• End in the charming town of Litchfield.

Where To Stay In The Litchfield Hills : Litchfield Inn . Refined and still very cozy, and one of the best in the area!

Should I do The Berkshires or Litchfield, CT? Personally, I would stay stick to The Berkshires since this will allow you a more relaxed itinerary. There’s so much to do, and plenty of foliage scenery to take in. If you do the Route 7 drive quicker than you were anticipating, you could always shoot down to the Litchfield Hills for an impromptu adventure 🙂

I would choose to add on the Litchfield Hills if you’re feeling adventurous, and really want to see as much of New England as possible.

Day 10 – Drive Back To Boston, Stopping In Sturbridge or Litchfield On The Way

If you have time to explore another cute town on your drive back to Boston, I would suggest either tacking on a quick drive through the Litchfield Hills, CT if you didn’t already, or a stop in Sturbridge, MA. Sturbridge is more on the way to Boston, and offers beautiful foliage.

How to spend your time in Sturbridge, MA :

• Visit Old Sturbridge Village for all the cozy fall New England vibes (this is a must if you have time!).
• Pop into Saw Dust Coffee & Dessert Bar for lunch and treats.
• Sip on craft beer at Altruist Brewing Company.

And of course, as mentioned in the previous day’s itinerary, the Litchfield Hills region has plenty to offer for foliage views, small towns, and beautiful scenery.

But, if you have a flight to catch, then don’t risk it, and head straight to the airport! 🙂

Optional Adjustments For The 10 Day Itinerary:

• You can easily cut out Acadia National Park, and head straight to New Hampshire, and choose to spend more time there. Acadia is out of the way, and further north, so I know it doesn’t suit everyone’s plans. This would allow you time to definitely ride The Cog, and have a more relaxed schedule.
• If you would rather have more time in Vermont, you can skip The Berkshires/CT. This is personal preference! Both areas are amazing for fall foliage, but nothing is quite like Vermont in the fall. This would allow you time to move at a slower pace. If you decide to skip The Berkshires/CT and stay in Vermont for a third night, see my 12 day itinerary, option 3 for suggestions on what to do!

12 Day Road Trip Itinerary Option

If you have 12 days (or more!), this is truly awesome. I would follow my 10 day itinerary, and then take one of these suggestions:

Option 1 : Add in 1 day to see Litchfield, CT after The Berkshires . Since you have the extra time, you can definitely see the Litchfield Hills region of Connecticut with this itinerary! I would recommend this option for those who really want to see as much of New England as possible, and make all the rounds.

Option 2 : Add an extra day to Littleton/Franconia. This region has so many great hikes and places to spot fall foliage. It’s well worth adding a day to this part of the trip if you have the extra time. This would allow you a half day to ride The Cog, and takes more scenic walks and hikes to enjoy the fall foliage.

Option 3 : Add an extra day to Vermont. On your extra day, you can take a day trip to Burlington and Shelburne, or spend the day driving the back roads .

Burlington & Shelburne, Vermont things to check out :

• First, the drive from both Stowe and Woodstock to Burlington on I-89 is beautiful in the fall. You’ll see lots of mountains ablaze with fall color.
• In Burlington, check out the waterfront area, and walk along Lake Champlain.
• Burlington also has an awesome craft brewery scene, and Foam Brewers is especially great.
• The American Flatbread restaurant in Burlington is a cozy place to stop for lunch.
• Church Street Marketplace in Burlington is a must!
• In Shelburne, you’ll want to spend most of your time walking around Shelburne Farms. This is a historic farm once owned by the Vanderbilt family, and has beautiful hiking trails, and you can also sample their homemade cheeses. Definitely do the Farm Trail, which takes you to an epic view of Lake Champlain.

Vermont back roads driving itinerary near Stowe :

This drive is easier to do from Stowe, but it’s also doable from Woodstock if you’re okay with a longer day. This itinerary is is order based on departing from Stowe, but you can also adjust based on which town you’re coming from 🙂

• The covered bridges in Montgomery, including Montgomery covered bridge (which is actually in Waterville), and Longley Covered Bridge.
• Barn Owl Bistro is a hidden gem nearby that’s a great little pitstop.
• The town of Cabot and the nearby AM Foster Covered Bridge are really beautiful areas to visit full of rustic Vermont charm.
• Peacham is a very small town with iconic landscapes and scenery.
• Bogie Farm in East Ryegate is a landscape that worthy of a postcard, and is especially beautiful in the fall.
• The drive between all these destinations will also be lovely and scenic, and packed with fall color.

1 Week (7 Day) New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

If you have 7 days, welcome to your itinerary! This option is the same as the 10 day option, but eliminates Acadia National Park to save time.

7 Day Road Trip Overview

Day 1 : Arrival In Boston Day 2 : Drive To Jackson, NH + A Stop In Salem, MA Day 3 : Drive To Franconia Along The Kancamagus Highway Days 4-5 : Drive To Stowe or Woodstock, VT + Stay 2 Nights Day 6 : The Berkshires Day 7 : Return To Boston

For this itinerary, you can also eliminate The Berkshires, and stay an extra night in Jackson or Franconia.

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

With 5 days, you can go in a few different directions, and below, I break down my suggested options, and the benefits of each. This way, you can tailor it to your preferences.

Option 1 : Spend two nights in Boston with a day trip to Salem, then spend 3 nights in Stowe/Woodstock, VT.

Option 1 is perfect if you prefer staying in one place longer. This itinerary will allow you to stay in the same hotel in Boston for 2 nights, and take an easy day trip to Salem for the perfect fall day of Halloween fun and history! Then you can pick up your rental car (if you haven’t already), and drive to Stowe or Woodstock, VT for 3 days to explore both towns.

With 3 days in Vermont, you can easily see both Stowe and Woodstock, and maybe even plan a day of driving around the back roads. See the 12-day itinerary option for my suggestions on driving the back roads around Vermont during foliage season .

Option 2 : Spend 1 night in Boston, stop in Salem on your way to Franconia and spend 2 nights in Franconia. Then spend 2 nights in Stowe/Woodstock, VT, and then drive back to Boston.

Option 2 is perfect for those who still want to see as much as possible in 5 days. You’ll get to see a bit of New Hampshire and Vermont, while making a stop in Salem.

Note: For this itinerary, I would drive from Salem to Conway, and the drive The Kancamagus Highway on your way to Franconia so you get to experience the fall foliage along this route. But this itinerary option eliminates the stay in Jackson, as there are more fall things to do in Franconia.

Option 3 : Spend 1 night in Boston, 1 night in Salem, 3 nights in Stowe/Woodstock, VT, and then back to Boston.

Option 3 is perfect for those who really want to spend some time in Salem. This itinerary allows you to spend a whole night in Salem to really enjoy all the Halloween festivities and tours, and then you can spend 3 beautiful days in Vermont.

I excluded New Hampshire from this option because I felt like it would be too much to cram in when adding 1 night in Salem. But if you were feeling adventurous (I’ve been there, I get it! 😂), you can drive to Franconia, NH for 1 night after Salem, and then do 2 nights in Vermont instead of 3.

3 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

3 days in New England is the perfect long weekend getaway!

With 3 days, I suggest you stay in one location , and add day trips . If you’re flying into Boston, you can stay 1 night in Boston if needed, and then drive to Vermont or New Hampshire for 2 nights. If you’re not flying in, you can spend all 3 nights in Vermont or New Hampshire.

Stowe is very close to New Hampshire, and it’s only about 1.5 hours from Franconia. You can easily do a day trip from Stowe to New Hampshire, or vice versa, for this type of itinerary.

It would also be easy to work in a stop in Salem, MA, either on your way in or out of Boston.

Weekend New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

For a weekend getaway in New England (essentially, 2 days), I would also recommend you stay in one place and take a day trip. For this itinerary, I almost always suggest Stowe or Woodstock. You can stay in either town, and spend 1 day exploring that town, and then the next day, exploring the other as a day trip.

Vermont Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Looking to just see Vermont? Excellent choice. It’s my personal favorite fall destination in New England (even though it’s a very close call 😉)

For a Vermont fall road trip , you can really do it in anywhere from 5-7 days. Of course, more is better to really see everything, but generally speaking, you can actually make it happen in a week or less. A popular route to take in Vermont is Route 100 , which runs the entire length of state, right through the middle. This allows you opportunities to veer off and see some other places as well.

For the purpose of this itinerary, I’m going to provide a week-long (7 day) itinerary, and you can adjust it to your own plans.

Day 1 : Bennington & Manchester Day 2 : Drive to Woodstock, stopping in Grafton and Weston on the way Day 3 : Spend the day in Woodstock Day 4 : Drive to Stowe, stopping in Montpelier if you’d like Day 5 : Spend the day in Stowe Day 6 : Staying in Stowe, take a day trip to Burlington & Shelburne Day 7 : Drive back

Day 1 Suggestions : Bennington and Manchester are pretty close to each other, so you can easily do both in one afternoon. There are some wonderful covered bridges in the area to see, and here are some more things to check out:

• The Bennington Battle Monument for fall foliage scenery.
• Downtown Bennington for shopping on Main Street (small, but cute!).
• Apple Barn is a few minutes from Main Street for a fun country store and bakery.
• Zoe’s in Manchester for lunch (great sandwiches!)
• Downtown Manchester for shopping in a cute town (don’t skip Northshire!)

Day 2 Suggestions : Grafton is a very small town, but it’s quintessential Vermont. It has a cute little cheese shop, and a nice little market/cafe called MKT Grafton, which is perfect for a quick bite. Also, swing by Weston to visit the Vermont Country Store.

For the rest of the itinerary, refer to the 10 day option for details 🙂

Click here to check out my post on a Vermont covered bridges road trip!

New Hampshire Fall Road Trip Itinerary

My second favorite fall foliage destination! Here’s my suggested itinerary for a New Hampshire-only fall road trip.

To just see New Hampshire , you can also spend anywhere from 4-7 days.

With 4 days, you can easily just stick to the White Mountains region, but I’m here to give you all my tips on even more awesome places to see in the fall season in New Hampshire ☺️ So, this itinerary will be 7 full days , but adjust as you need to!

Day 1 : Portsmouth Day 2 : Lake Winnipesaukee Days 3-4 : Littleton/Franconia Days 5-6 : North Conway/Jackson Day 7 : Drive back

Connecticut Fall Road Trip Itinerary Option

If you’ve seen all the “hot spots” around Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine, and you’re looking to explore a new part of New England in the fall, Connecticut should be next on your list!

As mentioned, my favorite place in Connecticut for fall foliage is the Litchfield Hills region. I always like to share that this region was what inspired Amy Sherman-Palladino’s creation of Stars Hollow, so Gilmore Girls fans will especially love this area.

The Litchfield Hills is very compact, and you can easily do a lot in a weekend here. However, 3-4 nights will allow you a nice, leisurely pace to explore all the amazing things this region has to offer in the fall.

The best towns to stay in in the Litchfield Hills region are:

• New Milford
• Washington/Washington Depot

Of all these towns, Litchfield probably has the most options when it comes to shopping and dining, however, they’re all very quaint and charming. I would pick whichever one has the best hotel for your plans.

If you have extra time for your Connecticut fall road trip, you can tack on places like Canaan to the north of the Litchfield Hills region, drive to Glastonbury, and then through the River Valley region, which includes the adorable towns of Chester and Essex. You can also choose to end your road trip in Mystic.

What To Pack For A New England Fall Road Trip

I always start every New England packing guide with the same thing, and this post is no different: begin to check the weather reports 5 days out from your trip to get an idea of what the weather will be like . And keep checking it until the day before you leave .

This is because weather in New England can change quickly, especially in the fall season. It’s not quite as dramatic as say … Iceland 😉 But, it can change and vary a bit. Generally speaking, fall will be chilly and a bit rainy. However, you could also have warm and sunny days. For longer trips, you’ll want to pack for both scenarios.

Here are some things I recommend you consider when packing for a fall road trip through New England:

Waterproof hiking boots . If you plan to do any hiking, or even nature walks, you’ll want a pair of sturdy boots that are waterproof. Even some attractions like Flume Gorge and other waterfalls in New Hampshire are pretty wet, so this is a good idea to stay dry and comfortable. I really like the Eddie Bauer K-6 Hiking boots. Find the women’s version here and the men’s version here . They’re a much less expensive version of the famous Danner hiking boots featured in the movie Wild !

Good hiking socks to keep your feet dry . An awesome brand to support is Tarn Tough Socks , which is a Vermont-based company. They’re an investment, but they’re also the best, and come with a lifetime guarantee!

Waterproof rain jacket to stay dry if it rains . You won’t want to let the rain slow you down, especially if there’s a lot in the forecast! So definitely pack one that’s completely water proof ( not water-resistant).

Layers . The best way to dress in the fall season is with layers. Under your rain gear, flannels, sweaters, and lightweight t-shirts (both short-sleeved or long-sleeved) work great.

Jeans . These work really well for most days. Fall in New England is pretty casual.

Hiking clothing . For any hikes you want to do, pack whatever clothes you typically wear and feel comfortable in 🙂

Comfortable sneakers or boots . When it’s not raining, a good pair of comfortable sneakers or cute boots work perfectly, depending on your plans. Since I drive from New York, I don’t usually have to worry too much about weight limits on a suitcase, so I’ll throw a pair of sneakers, flat boots/booties, and my hiking boots into the car. This is usually all I ever need.

Dinner outfits . New England is home to incredible places for farm-to-table dining, some of which are a bit more fancy. If you plan to go out for a nice dinner or two, you’ll want to pack accordingly. New England isn’t super fancy, so women can do a casual dress/jeans and a nice top with booties in the fall, and men can easily do dark-wash jeans and a button down top.

Reusable water bottle . You’ll need to stay hydrated while out exploring!

Day pack . If you plan to do any hiking, you’ll want to bring a day pack with you to carry your essentials. If you don’t plan to do any hikes, you can probably skip this, as you can keep most everything you need in your car or room.

Does It Snow In New England In The Fall?

Here’s the thing – it might if you’re up in the mountains. However, it doesn’t usually snow during peak foliage times. Usually, New England gets its first snow of the year later in October or early November. So, I wouldn’t worry about packing any snow gear or winter boots for your fall road trip.

How Do To A New England Fall Trip On A Budget

So, first thing’s first, you’ll unfortunately have to rethink what “budget” means in New England, especially during peak season in the fall. It’s generally more expensive than other areas of the country regardless of the reason, so during prime foliage times, prices will go up significantly.

Especially in the past, I never had the money to spend on several nights at hotels during this time of the year, so I have learned to do it on more of a budget. Not necessarily cheap, but not as tough on the wallet 😉 Here are my tips:

• Stay in motels. I love a good hotel splurge, and do it more now than I did in my 20s and early 30s. But for most of my road trips when the focus in exploring outdoors, I stay in motels with efficiency kitchens . You can find some really nice ones, and while they’re likely to be outdated, they’re usually clean and cozy.
• Efficiency kitchens allow you to make some meals at home. For a road trip style trip, this may be more challenging, as it’s hard to bring perishable items with you to store in a fridge. But I usually try to make my own breakfasts to save money, and pack snacks to have for lunch.
• Stay outside of town. If you’re really on a tight budget, you can stay outside of the towns you’re visiting. Places like Franconia, Stowe, and Woodstock charge premium rates for peak season, so you’re likely to find deals a town or two away.
• Go camping! If you’re really adventurous, you can go camping! There are camp sites all over New England, and this will definitely be more affordable. One thing to keep in mind is the colder weather, and for this reason, some camp sites may close down after Indigenous People’s weekend in October. But many remain open, and offer Yurt-style camping, too.

Is Fall In New England Worth It?

A resounding yes! I truly believe this is such a magical time to visit – if not the most magical time. Despite the crowds and the cost, it’s more than worth it. Many of the landscapes you’ll see are actual stock photos and postcards, and since so many people equate the fall season to all things cozy, there’s really no cozier place to be than in New England during foliage season.

More posts you may enjoy:

• Fall In New England: The Best Things To See & Do
• Vermont In The Fall: Festive Things To Do!
• Fall In New Hampshire: The Best Things To Do
• Fall In Massachusetts Ultimate Guide: All The Best Things To Do & Foliage Spots!
• The Best 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary For Any Season
• Best Stops To Make On A Boston To Stowe, VT Road Trip
• Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall
• Maine In October: Best Towns For Foliage & Things To Do!
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Awesome Corn Mazes In Vermont
• Best Time To Visit New England
• Best Time To Visit Vermont

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

And there you have it! All my tips and expert advice on planning the most epic New England fall road trip during foliage season! This truly is such a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should do at least once, and hopefully, you’re now well on your way to planning your own foliage adventure through New England!

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• Last Updated On
• June 13, 2023

15 Best Family Vacations in New England – Kid Friendly Ideas!

New England is an enchanting region where nature’s beauty goes hand in hand with rich history and vibrant culture.

Aside from that, New England has charming destinations with unmatched hospitality that await you.

From historic hotels to modern luxury retreats, each hotel or resort in this region offers a unique experience for every family.

Whether you seek a coastal escape or a hotel in a bustling city, New England’s hotels cater to every traveler’s desires.

With these fantastic options, you might need help choosing the best place for you and your family to stay.

Don’t worry.

I have reviewed the best family vacations in New England, so you won’t have difficulty selecting them.

During my vacations in New England, I visited many hotels in different cities.

I also talked to families and other vacationers to help you plan for an epic family trip.

Furthermore, I listed the hotels based on their kid-friendly activities, family accommodations, dining options, and other criteria.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in New England as you read our reviews below.

Best Family Vacations In New England Compared

No matter your interests, New England offers every family a diverse range of hotel experiences.

Check out our list of the top-rated hotels in New England.

Editor’s Choice

Cliff House Maine

Nestled on the rocky cliffs of Maine’s captivating coastline, Cliff House Maine is a jewel of New England.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 4/5
• Family Accommodations: 5/5 
• Dining Options: 4/5
• Safety and Security: 5/5
• Value for Money: 3/5
• Location and Accessibility: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

The Newbury Boston

The Newbury in Boston is an exceptional destination for families seeking a memorable and luxurious experience.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 3/5
• Family Accommodations: 4/5
• Dining Options: 5/5
• Location and Accessibility: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

White Elephant Hotel

The White Elephant Hotel is a charming and elegant retreat situated on the picturesque island of Nantucket.

• Family Accommodations: 5/5  

Here are the top 15 family vacations in New England.

1. Cliff House Maine (Editor’s Choice)

591 Shore Rd Cape Neddick, ME 03902 (207) 361-1000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Stunning oceanfront location
• Various family activities
• Expensive rates

With its serene ambiance, breathtaking vistas, and various activities, Cliff House Maine is a must-visit destination.

You can go on coastal hikes or guided nature walks, exploring hidden coves and witnessing stunning sunsets.

You can also kayak with your kids along the picturesque shoreline or unwind on the pristine beaches nearby. 

Moreover, the resort has excellent dining options that offer an exquisite culinary journey.

When it’s time to relax, pamper yourself at their world-class spa with skilled massage therapists.

2. The Newbury Boston

1 Newbury St Boston, MA 02116 (888) 974-3948 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Luxurious and spacious rooms
• High safety and security standards
• Limited kid-friendly activities on-site

This hotel offers a range of engaging activities that will captivate families and children of all ages.

When you enter the spacious lobby, you will be greeted with an atmosphere of luxury and impeccable service.

The hotel has spacious rooms, a rejuvenating spa, a rooftop pool, and other world-class amenities.

Apart from that, the hotel has a Kids’ Club that provides a safe space where children can engage in fun activities.

They also have interactive art installations, workshops, and storytelling sessions for kids.

3. White Elephant Hotel

50 Easton St Nantucket, MA 02554 (800) 445-6574 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Peaceful atmosphere
• Spacious rooms with complete amenities

From the breathtaking beauty of Nantucket to the staff’s warm hospitality, this hotel promises an unforgettable family getaway.

This hotel also boasts an array of activities that will captivate all guests.

You can ride a family bike along the island’s scenic trails or paddleboarding in the calm waters.

You can also relax on the hotel’s pristine beach with powdery sand.

Furthermore, you will love the delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurants, showcasing the freshest local seafood and seasonal ingredients.

Related:   Fun Things to Do in New England with Kids

4. The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square

1 Bennett St Cambridge, MA 02138 (617) 864-1200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Charles Hotel is a captivating destination for families in the heart of Harvard Square.

With exceptional service, accommodations, and activities, this hotel perfectly blends sophistication and family-friendly amenities.

The hotel’s stunning location allows convenient access to the vibrant atmosphere of Harvard Square, with its diverse dining options, shops, and attractions.

The Charles Hotel can also assist in arranging family-friendly tours to popular attractions such as the Museum of Science or the New England Aquarium.

No matter your preferences, The Charles Hotel will ensure a memorable and enriching experience for families.

This luxurious hotel has more nearby attractions than the White Elephant Hotel and has more amenities than Newbury Boston.

5. Falmouth, Massachusetts

Falmouth, MA Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you ever write about your adventures at Falmouth, Massachusetts, you can title it ‘A Cape Escape’.

It is a good choice if you are looking for a fun family getaway for the weekend.

You can stay at the Falmouth Heights Motor Lodge which has many stay options: motel rooms, independent cabins and large suites.

It is in a quiet neighborhood and just a short walk away from the Falmouth Heights beach, vineyard ferries and the Falmouth Village.

The place has a lovely pool and lawn space for refreshing mornings and sunkissed evenings.

There is a yard where you can host a barbeque.

The children can have a good time at the swings and the adults can catch up under the shade of the trees.

Everyone will have a great time whether you put the grill to work or bring a picnic basket.

And if you’re not up for it, which makes sense, the neighborhood has a ton of dining options .

Get the free continental breakfast, grab a coffee, and head to the beach or get on the bike trail.

Recommended Hotel: Falmouth Heights Motor Lodge

6. Bedford, New Hampshire

Bedford, NH (603) 472-5242 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Fifty miles from Boston and right next to Manchester, the largest city in the state, Bedford is filled with many parks, museums and historic sites that everyone in the family will love.

The streets are lined up with many monuments, statues, and architectural buildings for you to admire.

There are a lot of churches and cathedrals too.

Check out the Herring Green Activity Farm for a picnic or the Summerfields Miniature Railways for an outing.

See if you can spot the Willington Dovecote and Stables or recognize the Bedford War Memorial.

And you needn’t spend a ton of money on stay just because you want to be in the middle of all the action.

The Country Inn & Suites By Radisson is actually an affordable option if you are headed to Bedford, New Hampshire.

Whether your family is large or small, this is a comfortable and clean place with high-quality amenities.

The breakfast buffet, available every morning, is sumptuous and delicious.

The staff is friendly and accommodating.

Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites By Radisson

7. Carroll, New Hampshire

Carroll, NH (603) 846-5494 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

When in Carroll, New Hampshire, you must stay at the Omni Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods.

The historic hotel has a different stay option for every budget.

And if you are wondering where to go in the winter, this hotel is conveniently close to skiing, tubing, and ice skating facilities.

And at the end of the day, you can come back to a hot tub or an indoor pool to relax.

They also have heavily heated outdoor pools if you can’t get enough of the Carroll air.

Here, you will also find the longest zipline in New England.

And if you want to go hiking, horseback riding or rent a bike, Carroll is still the place in the summer.

You can also stay at the 1902 hotel which is a National Historic Landmark.

You can go to the formal dining room or the relaxed pub.

While the grown ups enjoy some afternoon tea, the kiddies can experiment with some Mad Hatter tea.

They also have a Kids’ Club which keeps the little ones busy while you hit the spa.

Recommended Hotel: Omni Mount Washington Resort

8. Francestown, New Hampshire

Francestown, NH Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Francestown in New Hampshire is a unique town to visit for families.

The name Crotched Mountain Resort might make you chuckle now but the experience will put a smile on the faces of your entire family.

This is great for the fall and winter.

It has some cool amenities for everyone.

The children will lose track of time in the play and game room. Mom and dad will feel the same at the outdoor pool or the library, depending on what you are into.

The rooms are big and clean.

There is a separate dining room and kitchen with utensils and condiments.

A man-made lake outside the resort adds to the beauty of the sunrise.

And it’s a great base camp, especially if you like outdoor activities golfing, mountain biking, ice skating or hiking.

The place also has a selection of bed and breakfast options for you to try.

And if you want to do some light shopping, head to the Francestown Village Store.

Recommended Hotel: Crotched Mountain Resort

9. Manchester, Vermont

Manchester Center, VT (802) 362-1313 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Vermont, with its ever popular bed and breakfast options is a great destination for a family vacation.

Unplug yourself from the busy metropolitan (or otherwise) life.

Pick Manchester as your next holiday destination for its churches, country inns and antique shops.

Speaking of inns, you must check out the one at Willow Pond.

It is in the heart of Green Mountains and is built on what was originally a dairy farm.

This inn built in the 1700s has a secret library.

You can explore it (and get some free Wi-Fi time) and if you’re traveling with a toddler, they can keep themselves busy with the toy set.

Start the day with a continental breakfast and get an evening snack in the main office.

This place also offers sleds right outside your door.

The rooms are comfortable with a living area with a fireplace and a bedroom.

The rooms are well maintained and the staff is attentive to the needs of their clients.

Recommended Hotel: Manchester View

10. Vergennes, Vermont

Vergennes, VT (802) 877-2841 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for a lakeside holiday, Vergennes is the one for you.

It is the smallest city and claims to have a pretty downtown.

The 1897 City Hall and Vergennes Opera House are at the center of all the action.

City Park is where all the concerts and community festivals take place.

Vergennes has a great collection of restaurants that will revitalize your taste buds and specialty shops for a little shopping on the side.

Main Street showcases some fantastic architecture with buildings made of local stone.

If you are looking for a park or a walkway, head to the nearby Basin Park.

And when you’re not walking on the streets, taking in the scenery, head to Otter Creek Falls.

The guest houses and private cottages spread over 700 acres of the all-inclusive Basin Harbor Resort on the New England coast, offer a friendly and roomy staycation.

You could go for a swim or a hike while the kids are at Kids Camp.

Recommended Hotel: Middlebury Inn

11. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock, VT (802) 457-3555 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Woodstock in Vermont is a year-round holiday paradise on the banks of the Ottauquechee River.

Home to the only national park in Vermont, Woodstock is a nice, little place in Windsor County.

There are three historic (covered) bridges where you can witness the colorful seasons of New England.

The place is well known for its rural heritage and the beauty of a small-town community.

You will find many artists, craftspeople and farmers here.

The Woodstock Inn & Resort is an excellent choice because of its access to all the seasonal activities.

In spring, summer and fall, you can try biking, hiking or fly fishing.

In the winter, the whole place looks like Christmas.

You can learn about raptors in a group or separately and try your hand at falconry.

You can also hit the spa and chill or go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

The resort has an on-site garden and the produce is used for dinner at their four restaurants.

They have a children’s menu and the Red Rooster is a big hit.

The meatballs and roasted potatoes also come highly recommended.

Recommended Hotel: Woodstock Inn & Resort

12. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Vineyard Haven, MA (508) 693-0085 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Attractive beaches and windy bike trails are often how Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts is described. It’s a fantastic spot for families who want a lazy beach vacation.

Take the tots to the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary and let them check out one of the nature programs.

Or you could all go to the Island Alpaca Company.

If you’re in Martha’s Vineyard around the fourth of July, you can join the parade.

If your skills permit you, join the annual Edgartown Sand Sculpture Contest.

No matter what you want to do, the Winnetu Oceanside Resort provides great anchorage.

In the summer, there are water taxi cruises and clambakes at the resort’s lawns.

They have heated outdoor pools and tennis courts for your pleasure.

The resort also offers various children’s programs depending on the time of the year.

This includes supervised field trips.

Whether you were relaxing at the beach or swimming laps all afternoon, at the Winnetu Oceanside Resort you can top it off with an exquisite meal and ocean view at The Dunes restaurant.

You can pick a suite with multiple bedrooms or a private cottage with a full kitchen.

Recommended Hotel: Harbor View Hotel

13. Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, CT (888) 288-4748 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from New Yorkers, spare yourself the insufferable drive by planning a trip to Mystic in Connecticut.

This is a charming village that was once a port on the shore of Block Island Sound.

That history can be explored at the Mystic Seaport which is the largest maritime museum in the US.

Children can learn how to tie a knot and dress in vintage costumes.

You can also walk on the decks of the world’s last wooden whaling ship.

If you like Beluga whales or African penguins, head to the Mystic Aquarium.

While you’re here, book your stay at The Whaler’s Inn along the Mystic river waterfront.

The place is a five-minute walk away from an extremely popular local eatery called Mystic Pizza.

The Inn itself is a collection of five historic buildings and offers complimentary turndown services as well as discounted tickets to the nearby tourist spots.

But children love this place for its chocolate chip cookies, available 24×7 at the lobby.

If you choose to stay at the Junior Suites, your children will have their own sleeping area with bunk beds and Roku TV.

Recommended Hotel: The Whaler’s Inn

14. Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Bretton Woods, NH (603) 278-3320 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you want to experience the wilderness of the White Mountain National Forest, Bretton Woods is your best bet.

The Omni Mount Washington Resort (for the second time in this list) is the favorite for an immersive experience.

A member of the Historic Hotels of America, it has access to the largest ski area in New Hampshire.

It has nine, high-octane zip lines and many trails for hiking and mountain biking.

You can also enjoy the tennis courts and riding stables on the property.

You can also check out the golf courses designed by architect Donald Ross.

The indoor pools are open all year long. Get pampered at the spa which has some packages for children too.

Or you can do it on your own while the little ones get their creative juices flowing at the many kids programs with arts and crafts and storytelling.

Do find out about their babysitting programs.

At night you can enjoy a great meal at the main dining room.

Expect to be served with special New England food with some live music for ambience.

There is a dedicated kids menu.

15. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, MA (617) 635-4500 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are unapologetically urban and love the excitement and energy of that life, you’ll like vacationing in Boston.

A lesson about the American Revolution at the Boston Children’s Museum or a walk-in Freedom Trail or a Celtics game at TD Garden.

Pick the kind of vacation you want and head out.

New England’s biggest city has all of it waiting for you.

Now, about your stay. The Marriott Vacation Club at Custom House is, unsurprisingly, a great option.

It is just walking distance from the New England Aquarium and the Faneuil Hall.

You will get a beautiful view of the Boston Harbor from the observation deck on the 26th floor.

Then check out the game room and get settled at the on-site theatre for a family movie night.

The suites are luxurious with a living room that comes with a giant TV, a dining table, and a full-size sofa bed.

There’s also a kitchenette equipped with all you need for a full breakfast.

Recommended Hotel: Marriott Vacation Club Pulse at Custom House

Related: Places to Eat in Boston, MA

Vacationer’s Guide

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

When choosing hotels or resorts for your next family vacation in New England, there are a lot of factors to consider.

The drawbacks, rates, location, and amenities are among the things you need to think of.

Also, choose the best place that will suit the needs and interests of your family.

The Cliff House Maine has spectacular ocean views and kid-friendly amenities like pools and game rooms.

However, one downside of this hotel is its expensive rates, which may not be affordable for all travelers.

The Newbury Boston is an iconic hotel with luxurious accommodations and high-security standards.

But the hotel has limited kid-friendly activities.

Meanwhile, the White Elephant Hotel offers a peaceful escape for travelers seeking tranquility and relaxation.

Their accommodations are also spacious, with some suites having kitchenettes and other premium amenities.

But its expensive hotel rates can be a drawback for some guests.

If you’re seeking an alternative with more amenities and nearby attractions, consider staying at The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square.

The only drawback is that the hotel has limited accessibility features.

How I Picked The Destinations 

My family and I love traveling to New England.

During our visits, we stayed at the top-rated hotels in the region.

I also researched each hotel and resort and learned about their offers and services.

Aside from that, I talked to other guests and residents to make my reviews clear and precise.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to evaluate the availability and variety of family-friendly amenities at every property. Does it feature playgrounds and kids’ clubs? Does it organize events designed specifically for kids? I ask myself these questions whenever I rate this property’s kid-friendly activities. 
• Family Accommodations: This is used to assess the family accommodations of the property. Are the rooms spacious? Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? Can it accommodate families of different sizes? Is there a crib or baby-proofing in every room? These questions are essential whenever I rate the property’s family accommodations. 
• Dining Options: This evaluates the dining options at the property. Are there kid-friendly options at the property? Is there an on-site restaurant that caters to everyone’s dietary preferences and needs? I use these questions to assess the dining options of every property. 
• Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of every property. Are the premises secured? Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? I consider these factors when rating the property’s safety and security. 
• Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value for money of every property. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? I ask myself these questions to rate the value for money provided by the property. 
• Location and Accessibility: This measures how accessible the property is for families. How far is it from the popular family attractions? Is it easily accessible via public transportation? I use these questions to evaluate the property’s location and accessibility. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some recommended family-friendly resorts or hotels in new england.

Some recommended family-friendly resorts or hotels in New England include Cliff House Maine, The Newbury Boston, and the White Elephant Hotel.

Are There Any Family-friendly Beaches In New England?

Yes, there are family-friendly beaches in New England, such as Cliff House Maine and the White Elephant Hotel.

Conclusion 

Based on the criteria and my first-hand experience, it is clear that these kid-friendly destinations offer the best family vacations in New England.

As I stepped into The Newbury Boston, I was transported into a world of timeless elegance and sophistication.

Newbury’s attention to detail and dedication to providing a luxurious experience were evident during my stay.

I loved the spacious accommodations and elegant atmosphere at the White Elephant Hotel.

I was also captivated by the stylish ambiance and delighted by the excellent restaurants at The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square.

But the Cliff House Maine exceeded my expectations.

My family was thrilled with the various activities, from swimming pools to game rooms.

The accommodations were also perfect for us and catered to our needs.

These Are The 14 Most Beautiful Places To Live In New England

• North Windham, Maine offers a quiet and picturesque place to live with lakes, nature parks, and a close-knit community. The cost of living is slightly higher than the national average.
• Merrimack, New Hampshire is a family-friendly town with parks, forests, and excellent amenities. The cost of living is slightly higher than the national average but lower than the state average.
• Cranston, Rhode Island is an excellent place to live with historic buildings, beautiful neighborhoods, and convenient modern conveniences. The cost of living is higher than the national average.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the United States, New England is a region renowned for its idyllic landscapes, rich history, and outdoor escapades. However, the many charming small towns in New England are particularly celebrated, especially among people looking to move and live somewhere more beautiful and peaceful. From the rugged coastline of Maine to the majestic mountains of Vermont, New England offers a tapestry of natural beauty and cultural treasures that make it a dream destination to call home.

It's time to uncover some of the most beautiful places in New England to live, where one can immerse themselves in picturesque surroundings, embrace a close-knit community, and experience the breathtaking landscape of this beautiful region. So, get ready to be captivated by the allure of New England's finest gems.

UPDATE: 2023/11/29 21:39 EST BY REENA JAIN

More Beautiful Places To Live In New England

Living in New England offers a wide range of alternatives, from big cities to historic towns and coastal villages to beautiful neighborhoods. So, for those thinking about relocating to this area, we've added four more of the best places to live in New England to this list.

Related: Quaint & Scenic: 10 Most Charming Towns In New England

North Windham, Maine

Small-town atmosphere, lakes, nature parks, and great amenities for residents.

For those looking for a quiet place to move, North Windham, Maine, is certainly the best place to live in New England. Sebago Lake, several lovely nature parks, a strong sense of community, a small-town atmosphere, and a variety of outdoor activities make this hamlet the perfect place for anyone who prefers quiet settings to big cities.

Surrounded by incredible landscapes, it offers outdoor activities, including boating and hiking. The proximity to Portland provides urban advantages while still retaining a peaceful, scenic lifestyle. The cost of living in North Windham, Maine, is 12.5 percent greater than the national average , and the monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,780, which is 24.5 percent more than the $1,430 national average.

• Facilities available in North Windham: Windham Public Schools, North Windham Union Church, Sebago Lake State Park, Windham Parks and Recreation Department, Windham Indoor Shooting Range, Windham Historical Society, Windham Country Club, Windham Public Library

Merrimack, New Hampshire

Parks, forests, quaint neighborhoods, and excellent family amenities.

Situated along the Merrimack River, Merrimack, New Hampshire, is a lovely place in New England that offers picturesque scenery, parks, forests, and quaint neighborhoods. The town is a family paradise since it places a high priority on education and offers top-notch educational facilities along with a variety of recreational activities.

Merrimack has an average cost of living of $2440 , which is 10.7% more than the national average and 4.6% less than the average for New Hampshire. In Merrimack, the monthly rental cost of a two-bedroom apartment is $2,120, which is 48.3% more than the $1,430 national average and 28.3% more than the $1,520 state average. So, ideally, this town is a great place to live for families.

• Facilities available in Merrimack: Merrimack School District facilities, Local parks for outdoor recreation, Medical facilities and clinics, Local stores and shopping centers, Dining options within the community, Access to local roads and highways.

Cranston, Rhode Island

Historic buildings, recreation, pretty neighborhoods, and modern conveniences.

Cranston, Rhode Island, is an excellent place to live in New England, considering that it offers beautiful neighborhoods, historic buildings, modern conveniences, and facilities for recreation, healthcare, and education. Being close to beautiful parks like Roger Williams Park provides leisure opportunities, unspoiled nature, and a variety of cultural events, plus local attractions and activities in Cranston provide much-needed fun and entertainment.

At $2250, the average cost of living in Cranston is 8.8% higher than the national average and 3.3 percent higher than that of Rhode Island. Additionally, renting a two-bedroom apartment in Cranston costs $1,580 per month, which is $10.5 percent more expensive than the $1,430 national average and 9.5 percent more expensive than the $1,430 state average.

• Facilities available in Cranston: Parks and Recreation Areas, Schools and Educational Institutions, Healthcare Facilities, Shopping Centers and Malls, Diverse Dining Options, Libraries, Cultural and Entertainment Venues, Public Transportation Services, Community Centers, Sports and Fitness Facilities

Bristol, Rhode Island

A close-knit port community with colonial homes and great bars and restaurants for social butterflies.

Bristol, Rhode Island, is a lovely city with lots of outdoor activity, a close-knit community, charming coastal architecture, and plenty of historic buildings. The abundance of eateries, coffee shops, and bars provides its residents with an excellent social life. The town's scenic port, tree-lined streets, and well-preserved colonial homes all contribute to its appealing appearance. Residents take pleasure in waterfront activities, picturesque coastline views, and a thriving sailing culture.

Bristol's average cost of living is $2234 , which is 5.5% less than the state of Rhode Island's average and 18.7% more than the national average. Additionally, a two-bedroom apartment in Bristol rents for $1,550 a month, which is 8.4% more expensive than the $1,430 national average and 7.7% more expensive than the $1,430 state average. Overall, Bristol is among the best places in Rhode Island to call home.

• Facilities available in Bristol: Colt State Park, Roger Williams University, Bristol Harbor, Parks, Mansions, Bristol Town Beach, Bristol Yacht Club, Downtown Bristol Shops and Restaurants, Community Center

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

One of the oldest towns in the us with green spaces, festivals, and river scenery.

Situated on the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, is a historic coastal city in Rockingham County, dating back to 1623, making it one of the oldest towns in the United States. There are also beautiful parks and green spaces throughout the city, which feature flower gardens, outdoor concerts, and festivals throughout the year.

The average cost of living for a family of four without rent in Paramount is $2617, which is 30% more than the national average, making it one of the most expensive places to live in the world. However, the rent cost may vary for the specific area, ranging anything between $2000 to $2600 for a 2-bedroom apartment.

• Facilities available in Portsmouth: Educational Institutes, Healthcare Facilities, Recreational Venues, Shopping Centers, and Dining Facilities

Portland, Maine

Historic old port district with cobblestone streets, 19th-century architecture, and a vibrant arts and entertainment scene.

Situated on the southern coast of Maine, Portland is a vibrant coastal city in Cumberland County . The heart of Portland is its historic Old Port district. This waterfront area is lined with cobblestone streets, restored 19th-century buildings, and a thriving arts and entertainment scene known for its unique shops, boutiques, galleries, and acclaimed restaurants serving fresh seafood.

The city is surrounded by the stunning Casco Bay, dotted with over 200 islands home to several picturesque lighthouses, and offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and exploring picturesque coastal landscapes. The average cost of living for a 4-member family in the city is $2912 without rent which is almost 15% higher than the national average.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment may range from $1800 to $2000, depending upon the location of the property.

• Facilities available in Portland: Public Transportation, Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure, Shopping and Dinning Facilities, Hospitals, and Clinics

Burlington, Vermont

A small-town-like city on lake champlain bursting with natural beauty, recreation, and the arts.

Burlington, Vermont, is a picturesque city in Chittenden County on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, known for its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and lively downtown, offering a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and small-town charm.

The city's downtown area is anchored by the Church Street Marketplace, a vibrant pedestrian-only street filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and street performers. The living expenditure in the city is about $2,593 for a family of four with additional charges of $1,500 to $2,000 for rent, making it 16% higher than the national average.

• Facilities available in Burlington: Higher Education Institutes, CCTA Public Bus Service, Airport, Healthcare Clinics and Facilities, and Recreational Spaces and Park

Related: Embrace The Bloom: 10 Of New England's Best Spring Destinations For Nature Lovers

Newport, Rhode Island

A historic coastal city with a scenic harbor, sailing culture, and gilded age mansions.

Newport, Rhode Island, is among the best places in New England to live; it's a historic coastal city in Newport County, home to scenic coastal landscapes and vibrant sailing culture. The city's picturesque harbor is a hub for sailing and boating enthusiasts allowing visitors to take harbor tours, charter sailboats, or simply stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the scenic views.

The downtown area of the city is known for its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and lively atmosphere. Also, Newport is renowned for its collection of opulent mansions built during the Gilded Age, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of the era.

Newport is one of the most expensive places to live in the United States, with the cost of living being 125% higher than the national average. The living expenses for a four-member family can range between $4500 to $5000 with rent, depending upon one's accommodation preferences.

• Facilities available in Newport: International Airport, Higher Education Institute, Medical Facilities, Roads and Infrastructure, Shopping, and Recreational Venues

Northampton, Massachusetts

Progressive culture, natural beauty, a vibrant arts scene, and historic architecture.

Northampton, Massachusetts, is a charming town in Hampshire County and is one of the best places to live in New England. Located in the western part of the state, it's known for its progressive culture, vibrant arts scene, and natural beauty.

The downtown area of the city is a vibrant hub lined with a diverse array of locally owned shops, boutiques, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants. The town's pedestrian-friendly atmosphere and historic architecture make it a pleasant place to live and wander.

Despite the incredible old town architecture and various urban luxuries, the cost of living in Northampton is higher than most other cities in the state, with the rent and utilities for an average household costing almost $2,200, making it 22% more than the national average.

• Facilities available in Northampton: PVTA Bus Service, Farmers Market, Healthcare Facilities, Higher Education Institutes, Shopping Centers, Restaurants, and Recreational Areas

Camden, Maine

Outdoor recreation and scenic sights bless this charming harbor town.

Camden, Maine, is a picturesque coastal town located in Knox County that offers a charming harbor, scenic landscapes, and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for tourists and residents of the place. The town's harbor is the focal point of Camden, offering beautiful views of sailboats, yachts, and fishing vessels.

The town is among the most beautiful towns in New England to live in, but it's particularly famous for its winter offering, boasting a world-class ski area offering a range of winter activities, including skiing and snowboarding.

The cost of living in the area is about $39,700 a year, including rent, utilities, transportation, and healthcare. It is almost the same as the national average, making Camden an affordable option to live in New England.

• Facilities available in Camden: Higher Education Institutes, Healthcare Clinics, Parks and Outdoor Venues, Public Transportation and Sports Facilities

Due to its proximity to the ocean, Camden can experience rapid weather changes, including the formation of dense fog that may reduce visibility, disrupting the usual pace of life, particularly near the harbor and coastal areas. So, the weather is an important thing to consider before settling in here.

Hanover, New Hampshire

Located on the connecticut river banks, home to dartmouth college and outdoor recreation.

Hanover, New Hampshire , is a picturesque town in Grafton County along the Connecticut River. It is home to Dartmouth College, one of the oldest and most respected institutions of higher education in the United States.

The city is situated on the banks of the Connecticut River, providing residents with beautiful river views and recreational opportunities, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and scenic boat tours, making it one of the best New England towns to live in.

The living standard in Hanover is better than most of the cities in New Hampshire, with an affordable cost of living of approximately $37,000 which is lower than the average living cost in New Hampshire and the national average.

• Facilities available in Hanover: Higher Education Institutes, Healthcare Centers, Shopping Centers, Restaurants, Outdoor Recreation Spaces, and Public Transport

Related: These Are 10 Of The Most Beautiful Ocean Overlooks You Can Find In New England

Stowe, Vermont

A popular tourist town in the green mountains with world-class skiing.

Stowe, Vermont, offers a wealth to do and see and is one of the most beautiful small towns in New England to live in. It's a picturesque town nestled in the Green Mountains of northern Vermont. The highlight of the town is Stowe Mountain Resort which features well-groomed slopes, diverse terrain, and breathtaking mountain views.

Additionally, Stowe Village is another notable attraction in the town, featuring quintessential New England architecture, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes, offering a welcoming and charming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

The cost of living for an average couple in Stowe is around $57000 a year, including all the utilities, groceries, rent, and transportation expenses. It is almost the same as the average living expenditure for the state of Vermont but higher than the national average for its reputation of being a popular tourist destination all year round.

• Facilities available in Stowe: Farmer Market, Public Library, Shopping Centers, Outdoor Recreation Spaces, Medical Facilities

Related: Which New England State Should You Travel To For Leaf Peeping this Fall?

Mystic, Connecticut

A historic maritime town with a scenic waterfront and quaint downtown area.

Mystic, Connecticut, is a charming coastal town in New London County, Connecticut. With its rich maritime history, scenic waterfront, and a range of cultural attractions, Mystic has become a popular destination to live and visit for its blend of history, natural beauty, and New England charm.

One of the best things to do in Mystic is to explore its downtown area, which boasts a quaint small-town charm with historic buildings and restaurants lined with colorful flower boxes, boasting a lively atmosphere.

Despite not having good public transport and educational facilities, the average living cost for a single adult in Mystic is $42,000 a year, almost the same as the average in the state but slightly higher than the national average, with the major chunk spent on rent, making almost $15,000 for a year.

• Facilities available in Mystic: Luxury Entertainment Venues, Medical Facilities, Outdoor Recreation Venues, Shopping District, and Restaurants

Woodstock, Vermont

A scenic green mountains village with historic buildings and natural beauty.

Woodstock, Vermont, is another one of the best towns in New England to live in; it's a picturesque town in Windsor County, in the heart of the Green Mountains, popular for its quaint New England charm, historic architecture, and natural beauty.

Woodstock's downtown area is a postcard-perfect New England village featuring beautifully preserved historic buildings, charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants, lined with tree-shaded streets, boasting a welcoming atmosphere and making it one of the best towns to live in New England.

The average cost of living for a family of four in Woodstock is over $91,000 a year, which is less than in other parts of Vermont but slightly greater than the average expenditure of similar households in the country.

• Facilities available in Woodstock: Library, Community Center, Public Transport, Schools, Healthcare Facilities, Shopping Centers, Outdoor Recreation Spaces and Restaurants