Craving coastal charm, mountain escapes, and colonial history? Head to New England! This northeastern U.S. region combines vibrant cities, peaceful villages, seasonal beauty, and outdoor adventure. From leaf-peeping in Vermont and skiing in New Hampshire to seafood feasts in Maine and historic walks through Boston, New England offers something for every traveler year-round.
New England Highlights:
- For Fall Color: Drive the Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire) – One of the most scenic fall foliage routes in the country.
- For History Lovers: Walk the Freedom Trail (Boston, MA) – Trace American Revolution sites in a compact, walkable city.
- For Foodies: Eat lobster in coastal Maine – Sample fresh lobster rolls, chowder, and blueberry pie in seaside towns like Ogunquit and Bar Harbor.
- For Skiers: Hit the slopes in Stowe or Killington (Vermont) – Enjoy New England’s best alpine terrain in winter.
- For Beach Lovers: Relax on the shores of Block Island or Cape Cod – Pristine beaches, lighthouses, and summer charm.
When I like to visit New England
The best time to visit New England depends on your interests. Fall (late September–October) is famous for foliage and harvest festivals. Summer (June–August) brings beach days and seafood shacks. Winter (December–March) is perfect for skiing and cozy inns. Spring (April–May) offers flower blooms and fewer crowds.
Tips for getting to New England
- By Air: Logan International Airport (Boston) is the region’s largest hub. Smaller airports include Bradley (Hartford), Portland (Maine), and Burlington (Vermont).
- By Car: I-95 and I-91 connect major cities and scenic routes; ideal for road trips across state lines.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor runs through Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts with links to NYC and beyond.
Where I like to stay in New England
- For a Historic City Stay: The Liberty Hotel (Boston, MA) – A luxurious and historic prison-turned-hotel near Beacon Hill.
- For a Seaside Retreat: Cliff House (Cape Neddick, ME) – Oceanside luxury with spa treatments and stunning views.
- For a Mountain Escape: Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe, VT) – Alpine charm and outdoor fun in the Green Mountains.
Best Things to Do in New England
Where I Like to Eat in New England
- For Lobster Rolls: The Clam Shack (Kennebunkport, ME) – Legendary sandwiches served fresh and fast.
- For Farm-to-Table: The Farmhouse Tap & Grill (Burlington, VT) – Vermont ingredients in a rustic-chic gastropub.
- For Italian: Al Forno (Providence, RI) – Inventors of grilled pizza and iconic regional cuisine.
My favorite local events:
- For Fall Fun: The Big E (September, West Springfield, MA) – A massive fair celebrating all six New England states.
- For Literature Lovers: Brattleboro Literary Festival (October, Vermont) – Free events and author talks in a cozy book-loving town.
- For Maritime History: Windjammer Days (June, Boothbay Harbor, ME) – Tall ships, parades, and waterfront activities.
Day Trip Itineraries Within New England:
- For Coastal Charm: Rockport & Gloucester, MA – Stroll art galleries, dine on seafood, and visit scenic lighthouses (1–2 hrs from Boston).
- For Foliage & Hiking: Franconia Notch State Park, NH – Explore Flume Gorge and Cannon Mountain tramway (2 hrs from Portland or Boston).
- For Culture: Hartford, CT – Tour the Mark Twain House, museums, and riverfront parks (1.5 hrs from Providence or Boston).
- For Island Adventure: Martha’s Vineyard – Ferry from Cape Cod for beaches, bike paths, and lighthouses.
- For Skiing: Mount Snow or Killington, VT – Hit the slopes in winter or hike in summer (2–3 hrs from major cities).
Plan Your Trip