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What makes New England a great weekend destination?
- With so much history, quaint old towns on the Atlantic coast, forested mountains, and magnificent cities such as Boston, there is no lack of things to do on a weekend in New England.
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What are some charming coastal towns in New England?
- Charming towns like Bar Harbor and Martha’s Vineyard provide historic monuments, miles of beaches, and great seafood.
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Which small towns in New England offer history and culture?
- Small towns like Cambridge, VT and Kennebunkport offer a combination of history, culture, and fantastic restaurants.
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1. Cape Cod National Seashore
Walk along sandy shores and explore coastal trails on a relaxing summer trip.
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What is the Cape Cod National Seashore?
- The Cape Cod National Seashore is a 43,607-acre protected area on Cape Cod in Massachusetts.
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What natural features can be found within the seashore?
- It includes 40 miles of Atlantic seashore, woodlands, ponds, marshes, dunes, and Atlantic coastal pine barrens.
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Where does the Cape Cod National Seashore stretch?
- The seashore stretches from Chatham to Provincetown and features historic lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and massive wild cranberry bogs.
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What activities can visitors enjoy at the seashore?
- With so much diversity, people have different reasons for loving this wild, untamed space – including hiking, swimming, biking, surfing, canoeing, visiting an old whaling captain’s house, searching for wild cranberries, and climbing to the top of lighthouses.
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What is one of the most famous beaches within the seashore?
- One of the most famous beaches is Outer Beach, described by Thoreau in the 1800s.
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Where can I find a map of Cape Cod National Seashore?
- You can view the map of the seashore here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming coastal landscapes.
Inn at the Oaks (Eastham) – Charming historic inn near the seashore.
Visit Nauset Lighthouse – One of Cape Cod’s most iconic landmarks.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather and ideal beach conditions.
Harbor Hotel Provincetown – Modern waterfront hotel with stunning views.
Relax at Coast Guard Beach – One of the top-rated beaches in the U.S.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer crowds, cooler weather, and vibrant foliage.
Eagle Wing Inn (Eastham) – Comfortable stay with great access to hiking trails.
Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail – A scenic ride through coastal dunes and forests.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, perfect for a cozy retreat.
Seaglass Inn & Spa (Provincetown) – A relaxing getaway with winter discounts.
Enjoy a winter beach walk – The seashore is serene and beautiful in colder months.
2. Stowe
Ski snowy slopes and stroll charming streets on an exciting winter weekend getaway.
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Where is Stowe located?
- Located in northern Vermont on the slopes of Mount Mansfield, Stowe is a small town known as the Ski Capital of the East.
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What makes Stowe a top ski destination?
- Stowe is home to the world-class Stowe Mountain Resort, featuring ski slopes and trails on both Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak.
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What natural attractions are near Stowe?
- Near the base of the mountain is Smugglers’ Notch State Park, known for its dense forest and a famous narrow mountain pass.
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What is the Stowe Recreation Path?
- The Stowe Recreation Path runs through the town along the West Branch of the Little River and provides wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.
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What can visitors find at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum?
- The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum features a fascinating exhibition of ski gear and related artifacts.
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What events and festivals take place in Stowe?
- Stowe hosts a variety of arts and crafts shows, a balloon festival, and other seasonal events.
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Where can visitors enjoy live theater performances in Stowe?
- The Stowe Theater Guild, Hyde Park Opera House, and the Waterbury Festival Players offer high-quality theatrical productions every summer.
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Where can I find a map of Stowe?
- You can view a map of Stowe here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Blooming landscapes and fewer crowds.
Green Mountain Inn – A charming stay in the heart of Stowe.
Explore Moss Glen Falls – A scenic and easy hike to a beautiful waterfall.
Summer (June-August) – Ideal for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
Golden Eagle Resort – Cozy lodge with great access to nature trails.
Bike the Stowe Recreation Path – A relaxing way to take in the mountain scenery.
Fall (September-November) – Peak foliage season with stunning autumn colors.
Trapp Family Lodge – An Austrian-style mountain retreat with breathtaking views.
Drive through Smugglers’ Notch – One of New England’s best scenic fall routes.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing and winter sports.
Field Guide Lodge – A stylish boutique hotel with a cozy atmosphere.
Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort – One of the top ski destinations in the Northeast.
3. Bar Harbor, New England
Admire ocean views and enjoy seafood delights on an affordable spring escape.
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Where is Bar Harbor located?
- Bar Harbor is a quaint coastal town on Mount Desert Island, protected by Maine’s Frenchman Bay. It serves as a gateway to nearby Acadia National Park.
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How far is Bar Harbor from Boston?
- Bar Harbor is a popular tourist destination and is only a 5-hour drive from Boston.
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Where can visitors get the best view of Bar Harbor?
- The best view of the town and the entire island is from one of the many trails on the majestic Cadillac Mountain, which dominates the park.
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What natural features surround Bar Harbor?
- Bar Harbor is surrounded by exceptional natural beauty, including sheer cliffs, rocky beaches, glacier lakes, ancient boreal forests, and 400 years of history.
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Is Bar Harbor known for its cultural attractions?
- Yes, Bar Harbor is the island’s cultural center, featuring unique art galleries, excellent family-run restaurants, cozy cafes, and charming artisanal shops.
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What is the best way to explore Bar Harbor?
- The best way to explore the town and its surroundings is by taking the Shore Path from the town pier and strolling along the bay overlooking the ocean.
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Where can I find a map of Bar Harbor?
- You can view a map of Bar Harbor here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Fewer crowds and blooming landscapes.
Bar Harbor Manor – Charming inn close to downtown and Acadia National Park.
Explore Jordan Pond – Enjoy scenic spring views and stop at Jordan Pond House for popovers.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather and bustling activity.
Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina – Waterfront stay with stunning ocean views.
Drive the Park Loop Road – A must-see scenic route through Acadia National Park.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning autumn foliage and fewer tourists.
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center – Great ocean views and easy access to the park.
Watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain – One of the first places to see sunrise in the U.S.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet, peaceful, and great for cozy retreats.
The Inn on Mount Desert – A cozy and comfortable stay near downtown.
Take a winter hike in Acadia – Snow-covered trails offer a serene winter wonderland.
4. Burlington
Visit lakeside parks and explore local shops on a fun family weekend.
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Where is Burlington located?
- Burlington is a charming, vibrant, small college town in Vermont, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, not far from the Canadian border.
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What is Church Street Marketplace?
- In the heart of Burlington, the lively pedestrian Church Street Marketplace offers diverse stores, restaurants, cafés, bookshops, galleries, and plenty of benches for visitors to rest.
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What historical attractions are near Burlington?
- Not far from downtown is the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum, and south of the city is the Shelburne Museum, which houses a large collection of American folk and decorative art.
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What outdoor activities are available near Burlington?
- The nearby Adirondack and Green Mountains are popular destinations for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
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Can visitors enjoy the lake during the summer?
- The lake’s sandy beaches are perfect for soaking up the sun in the summer, and the lake itself is large enough for a variety of watersports.
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Where can I find a map of Burlington?
- You can view a map of Burlington here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Blooming flowers, maple syrup season, and fewer crowds.
Hotel Vermont – A modern boutique hotel with local charm.
Visit the Burlington Farmers’ Market – Enjoy fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for lake activities and festivals.
Courtyard Burlington Harbor – Comfortable stay with beautiful lake views.
Bike along the Burlington Greenway – A scenic trail with stunning views of Lake Champlain.
Fall (September-November) – Peak foliage season, crisp air, and scenic drives.
Made INN Vermont – A charming and artsy boutique B&B.
Drive through Smugglers’ Notch – Experience Vermont’s famous fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy landscapes, cozy retreats, and winter sports.
Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain – Great location near the waterfront and downtown.
Go skiing at Bolton Valley – A nearby ski resort with great trails for all levels.
5. Acadia National Park
Hike rugged trails and look at sweeping vistas on an adventurous fall trip.
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Where is Acadia National Park located?
- Covering 47,000 acres of land on Isle au Haut, Mount Desert Island, and the Schoodic Peninsula in DownEast Acadia, Maine, Acadia National Park is the only national park in Maine.
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Why was Acadia National Park established?
- The park was established to protect the magnificent nature of the rocky headlands along the Atlantic Ocean coastline, as well as a range of habitats with high biodiversity, clean water and air, and Maine’s rich cultural heritage.
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What are some key features of Acadia National Park?
- The park has seven peaks higher than 1,000 feet, 45 miles of roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 16 stone bridges.
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What kind of wildlife can be found in Acadia National Park?
- The park’s dense woodland, rocky beaches, and glacier-formed granite peaks are home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, whales, foxes, peregrine falcons, salamanders, and many seabirds.
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Is there a town within Acadia National Park?
- Yes, the charming coastal town of Bar Harbor is located within the park.
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How many people visit Acadia National Park each year?
- Thousands of people visit the park every year to enjoy the magical landscapes and endless recreation opportunities.
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Where can I find a map of Acadia National Park?
- You can view a map of the park here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Fewer crowds, mild weather, and blooming wildflowers.
Bar Harbor Manor – A charming inn close to Acadia and downtown Bar Harbor.
Drive Park Loop Road – See Acadia’s scenic highlights before peak season crowds arrive.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with ideal weather for hiking and water activities.
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center – Waterfront hotel with easy park access.
Hike Cadillac Mountain – Catch the sunrise from one of the first places in the U.S. to see daylight.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage, fewer tourists, and crisp air.
Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina – Beautiful accommodations with harbor views.
Explore Jordan Pond – Hike around the pond and stop for the famous popovers at Jordan Pond House.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful with opportunities for winter hiking and snowshoeing.
The Inn on Mount Desert – Cozy and centrally located in Bar Harbor.
Visit Acadia in winter – Snow-covered trails make for a magical and serene experience.
6. Block Island
Bike scenic paths and relax on quiet beaches during a romantic summer getaway.
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Where is Block Island located?
- Located only about 13 miles off the coast of Rhode Island, Block Island offers a stunning mix of magnificent beaches, breathtaking vistas, and towering 250-foot-high cliffs plunging into the ocean.
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How big is Block Island?
- The island is tiny, measuring only 3 by 7 miles, yet it boasts over 50 stores and artisanal shops, numerous art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and charming cafés.
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What activities can visitors enjoy on Block Island?
- Besides relaxing on the beach, visitors can enjoy activities such as bike riding, horseback riding, hiking, birdwatching, fishing, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, and sailing.
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What is the Southeast Lighthouse?
- The island is known for its iconic 1800s red-brick Southeast Lighthouse, which is perched atop the dramatic Mohegan Bluffs.
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What can visitors find on the northern tip of Block Island?
- On the island’s northern tip is the 1867 North Lighthouse and Sachem Pond, a birdwatchers’ paradise with flocks of gulls and swallows.
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What wildlife is protected on Block Island?
- The Block Island National Wildlife Refuge protects migratory songbirds that visit the island each year.
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Where can I find a map of Block Island?
- You can view a map of Block Island here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Fewer tourists, cool ocean breezes, and blooming flowers.
Block Island Beach House – A charming beachfront hotel with ocean views.
Visit Mohegan Bluffs – Enjoy stunning cliffside views and a secluded beach.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm beach weather and lively atmosphere.
The 1661 Inn – Historic and elegant with sweeping ocean views.
Relax on Crescent Beach – One of the best spots for swimming and sunbathing.
Fall (September-November) – Fewer crowds, crisp air, and great hiking.
Spring House Hotel – A beautiful Victorian-style retreat with great dining.
Bike around the island – Enjoy scenic roads and historic lighthouses.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, perfect for a cozy getaway.
The Blue Dory Inn – A cozy B&B near the beach with a warm atmosphere.
Take a winter beach walk – The island’s deserted beaches are serene and beautiful.
7. Boston
Discover historic sights and savor local eats on an easy city weekend trip.
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What is the history of Boston?
- One of the oldest cities in the U.S., founded in 1630, Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and its largest city.
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What role did Boston play in the American Revolution?
- Boston played a key role in the American Revolution, and a great way to experience its rich history is by taking the Freedom Trail.
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What is the Freedom Trail?
- The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking exploration of the city’s historic sites, featuring 16 major landmarks, including the former meeting house Faneuil Hall, now a popular marketplace.
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What other attractions can visitors see in Boston?
- Visitors can pass by the Boston Public Art Museum, tour the State House, climb the Bunker Hill Monument to learn about the first big battle of the American Revolution, and ride the swan boats on the Public Garden Lagoon.
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What other experiences does Boston offer?
- Enjoy the city’s beautifully preserved architecture, try the foods at Faneuil Market, visit the harbor, and watch the historic ships.
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Where can I find a map of Boston?
- You can view a map of Boston here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists.
The Boxer Boston – Boutique hotel in the West End near historic sites.
Walk the Boston Common & Public Garden – See cherry blossoms and ride the Swan Boats.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm weather and outdoor festivals.
CitizenM Boston North Station – Stylish and modern hotel near TD Garden.
Explore the Freedom Trail – A historic walking route through Boston’s landmarks.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning autumn foliage and perfect weather for sightseeing.
The Godfrey Hotel Boston – Centrally located with chic accommodations.
Visit Harvard Square – Enjoy fall colors and the charming atmosphere of Cambridge.
Winter (December-February) – Festive holiday markets and cozy city vibes.
Revere Hotel Boston Common – Stylish and cozy with great views of the city.
Ice skate at Frog Pond – A classic Boston winter experience in the Common.
8. Cambridge, Vermont
See covered bridges and explore mountain views on a peaceful retirement escape.
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Where is Cambridge, Vermont located?
- A small Vermont town settled in 1783 for grazing livestock, Cambridge is a perfect gateway to the nearby resorts on Mount Mansfield and Smuggler’s Notch.
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What outdoor activities are available in Cambridge during the summer?
- During the summer, visitors can explore well-maintained trails for hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding all around Cambridge.
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What does Smuggler’s Notch offer in the winter?
- In the winter, Smuggler’s Notch transforms into a first-class resort with a wide range of facilities for visitors.
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What historic landmarks can be found in Cambridge?
- Cambridge is famous for its three historic covered bridges. Visitors can also explore the Longfellow House, a beautiful mansion that was the home of renowned poet Henry W. Longfellow and served as General George Washington’s headquarters in 1775.
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What local products and craft beverages are available in Cambridge?
- Smuggler’s Notch Distillery offers original local maple products and crafts. The town also has a lively craft beer scene, and a visit to a tap room provides a great chance to meet friendly locals.
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Where can I find a map of Cambridge?
- You can view a map of Cambridge here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Blooming flowers, maple sugaring season, and fewer crowds.
Smugglers' Notch Inn – A cozy, historic inn with a charming Vermont feel.
Visit local maple farms – Experience Vermont’s famous maple sugaring season.
Summer (June-August) – Ideal for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
Smugglers' Notch Resort – A great family-friendly stay with pools and activities.
Hike Smugglers’ Notch State Park – Explore scenic trails and waterfalls.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage, crisp air, and scenic drives.
Sterling Ridge Resort – Cozy log cabins perfect for a fall getaway.
Drive through Smugglers’ Notch Pass – One of the best fall foliage routes in New England.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy landscapes, skiing, and winter sports.
The Inn at Buck Hollow Farm – A charming and cozy B&B with a rustic touch.
Ski at Smugglers' Notch Resort – A top destination for skiing and snowboarding.
9. Green Mountain National Forest
Go leaf-peeping and hike forested trails on a colorful fall trip.
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Where is Green Mountain National Forest located?
- Located in central and southwestern Vermont, the Green Mountain National Forest spans 400,000 acres of magnificent and diverse landscapes.
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What natural features can be found in the forest?
- The forest includes the rugged, wild heights of the Green Mountains, quiet secluded hollows, and 2,000 historic and archaeological sites.
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Is Green Mountain National Forest open year-round?
- Yes, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and is accessible year-round.
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What makes autumn special in the forest?
- In the autumn, the entire mountain transforms into a colorful spectacle of foliage, creating a breathtaking sight.
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What historical sites can be found in the forest?
- Within the forest are many Native American sites, the ruins of colonial-era farmsteads, and roads and structures built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
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What wildlife can visitors see in Green Mountain National Forest?
- Lucky hikers may come across stately moose and other fascinating wildlife.
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Where can I find a map of Green Mountain National Forest?
- You can view a map of the forest here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Blooming wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and fewer crowds.
The Manchester View (Manchester, VT) – Cozy rooms with mountain views.
Explore Lye Brook Falls – A scenic hike to one of Vermont’s tallest waterfalls.
Summer (June-August) – Warm temperatures, perfect for hiking and camping.
The Inn at Manchester – A charming inn with easy access to trails and outdoor activities.
Hike the Long Trail – One of the oldest long-distance trails in the U.S.
Fall (September-November) – Peak foliage season with stunning autumn colors.
The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa (Manchester, VT) – A historic retreat with beautiful surroundings.
Drive the Molly Stark Scenic Byway – Experience breathtaking fall foliage.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy landscapes, skiing, and cozy getaways.
Blueberry Hill Inn (Goshen, VT) – A peaceful country inn with trails right outside.
Go cross-country skiing – Enjoy winter trails in the heart of the forest.
10. Kennebunkport, New England
Stroll seaside streets and enjoy fresh lobster on a romantic spring retreat.
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Where is Kennebunkport located?
- Kennebunkport is a quiet, charming coastal town in southern Maine.
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What are the main attractions in Kennebunkport during summer?
- In the summer, thousands of tourists visit its fantastic beaches, including Goose Rocks Beach and Arundel Beach.
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What can visitors do in Kennebunkport when the weather isn’t ideal for the beach?
- When the weather does not encourage beach visits, the town’s unique boutiques, galleries, and quaint restaurants and cafés are full of visitors.
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What historical attractions can visitors see in Kennebunkport?
- The Seashore Trolley Museum houses a large collection of historic streetcars.
- The 1887 St. Ann’s Episcopal Church is a rustic stone church set on grassy grounds with beautiful ocean views.
- The 1833 Goat Island Lighthouse in the harbor of Cape Porpoise village is also worth a visit.
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What is the best way to explore Kennebunkport?
- Hiking is the best way to explore Kennebunkport, whether you are checking out the galleries and boutiques or visiting lighthouses and historic sea captains’ mansions on Summer Street.
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Where can I find a map of Kennebunkport?
- You can view a map of Kennebunkport here.
Best Time to Visit
Medium-Priced Places to Stay
Tips for Exploring
Spring (March-May) – Mild weather, fewer tourists, and blooming flowers.
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel – Stylish and centrally located with harbor views.
Stroll through Dock Square – Explore charming boutiques, galleries, and cafés.
Summer (June-August) – Peak season with warm beach weather and lively events.
Nonantum Resort – A waterfront stay with historic charm and great amenities.
Relax at Goose Rocks Beach – A quiet, sandy beach perfect for sunbathing.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds.
Kennebunkport Inn – Cozy and elegant stay in the heart of town.
Drive the coastal scenic route – Enjoy breathtaking ocean views with fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Festive holiday lights and a cozy small-town feel.
Captain Lord Mansion – A romantic, historic inn perfect for a winter retreat.
Experience Kennebunkport’s Christmas Prelude – A magical holiday celebration with lights and events.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Cape Cod National Seashore
- 2. Stowe
- 3. Bar Harbor, New England
- 4. Burlington
- 5. Acadia National Park
- 6. Block Island
- 7. Boston
- 8. Cambridge, Vermont
- 9. Green Mountain National Forest
- 10. Kennebunkport, New England