New England Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive travel guide to New England.


Introduction to New England

New England is a region located in the northeastern part of the United States of America, consisting of six states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. It is renowned for its rich history, picturesque scenery, and distinct cultural elements such as seafood, colonial architecture, and autumn foliage.

List of Places to Visit in New England

From bustling cities to serene countryside, New England has something to offer every traveler. Here are some of the must-see destinations:

Boston, Massachusetts

As the largest city in New England, Boston offers a mix of history, culture, and modernity. Visit the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walkway that takes you through 16 historical sites, or stroll through the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood. Don’t forget to try the local clam chowder and catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park.

Portland, Maine

Dubbed as a “foodie haven,” Portland is a charming coastal city with a thriving food scene. Take a walk in the quaint Old Port district, or visit the Portland Museum of Art. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Casco Bay Islands and nearby Acadia National Park.

Newport, Rhode Island

If you are interested in history, art, and architecture, Newport is the place to visit. This coastal city boasts over 200 historic buildings and the famous mansion tours, like The Breakers and the Marble House. You can also stroll along the Cliff Walk and enjoy stunning ocean views.

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington, a college town located on the shores of Lake Champlain, is a must-visit for nature lovers and beer enthusiasts. Take a scenic cruise on the lake, or visit one of the many breweries in the city. For outdoor adventures, head to nearby Mount Mansfield, which offers hiking, skiing, and scenic vistas.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is a charming New England city with a rich history. Wander the quaint streets of Strawbery Banke, a living history museum, or visit the USS Albacore Museum, which showcases a former U.S. Navy submarine.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

New England is a hub for history, art, and culture. Here are some of the must-see cultural attractions:

The Mark Twain House and Museum, Hartford, Connecticut

Literature lovers will appreciate The Mark Twain House and Museum, the former home of the famed author. Take a guided tour and learn about Mark Twain’s life and work, or participate in an interactive program.

The Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, Massachusetts

The Peabody Essex Museum showcases a vast collection of art, culture, and maritime history. Featuring more than 1.8 million objects, including Asian and Oceanic artwork, the museum offers a unique blend of global perspectives.

The Norman Rockwell Museum, Stockbridge, Massachusetts

The Norman Rockwell Museum is devoted to the life and work of the famous illustrator and depicts a nostalgic representation of American life. With over 900 original pieces on display, the museum offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Rockwell’s timeless artwork.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, Massachusetts

For those interested in American history, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is a must-visit. Explore the various exhibition halls and galleries, including the replica of President Kennedy’s Oval Office and the 1960 Presidential Election Campaign Gallery.

The Bennington Museum, Bennington, Vermont

The Bennington Museum offers visitors a comprehensive look at the art, history, and culture of Vermont and Northern New England. It features the largest collection of Grandma Moses paintings and showcases over 30,000 historical artifacts.

Natural Attractions of New England: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

New England is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. From mountains to coastlines, there’s plenty to explore. Here are some of the natural attractions worth checking out:

White Mountains, New Hampshire

The White Mountains offer some of the best hiking and outdoor activities in New England. Take a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway, visit the Flume Gorge, or hike to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, located on the coast of Maine. Hike one of the many trails, drive around the Park Loop Road, or explore the Isle au Haut, the Isle of Springs or the Schoodic Peninsula.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a scenic peninsula that stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning beaches, charming small towns, and excellent seafood. Visit the picturesque towns of Chatham and Provincetown, or take a whale watching tour.

The Green Mountains, Vermont

The Green Mountains, part of the Appalachian Mountains, offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in all of New England, with picturesque ski towns like Stowe, Killington, and Stratton.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island is a small island located off the coast of Rhode Island. Explore the Mohegan Bluffs, Take a dune buggy tour, or stroll along the historic walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New England

New England offers some of the best opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes:

Franconia Ridge Loop, New Hampshire

The Franconia Ridge Loop is a challenging hike but offers stunning views of the White Mountains. It’s a 9-mile trail that takes you through the Appalachian Trail and the Franconia Ridge.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail, Massachusetts

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a 26-mile paved route that runs from Dennis to Wellfleet. The trail passes through beaches, forests, and scenic vistas, and is perfect for cycling enthusiasts.

The East Coast Greenway

The East Coast Greenway is a 2,900-mile bike trail that runs from Maine to Florida, featuring some of the most beautiful routes in New England. Ride from Boston to Portsmouth, or take the scenic route between Providence and New Haven.

Camel’s Hump, Vermont

The Camel’s Hump is one of the largest and most scenic mountains in Vermont. A 6.8-mile hike will take you to the highest point, with panoramic views of the surrounding Green Mountains.

The Cliff Walk, Rhode Island

Located in Newport, The Cliff Walk is a 3.5-mile walkway that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. This easygoing walkway takes you through some of the most picturesque mansions in Newport, making it a must-visit for history and nature lovers alike.

Best Things to Do in New England: Activities and Tours

New England offers a variety of activities that cater to all interests. Here are some of the best things to do:

Whale Watching, Massachusetts

From May to October, take a whale watching tour off the coast of Massachusetts. Observe the majestic creatures in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior from experienced guides.

Maple Sugaring, Vermont

Visit Vermont in the spring and learn how to make maple syrup. Take a tour of a sugarhouse and watch as the sap is boiled down to syrup. Don’t forget to sample some of the sweet treats!

Visit the Lighthouse Museums, Maine

Explore Maine’s lighthouses, some of which have been converted into museums. From the Portland Head Light to the West Quoddy Head Light, these structures offer a glimpse into maritime history.

See the Fall Foliage, New England

New England is known for its spectacular fall foliage, and the best time to see it is from late September to mid-October. Take a scenic drive through Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts and soak in the colorful display.

Go Skiing/Snowboarding, New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the Northeast. From the Cannon Mountain Ski Resort to the Loon Mountain Ski Resort, there are plenty of slopes to enjoy.

Week-Long Itinerary for New England

For those who want to experience the best of New England, here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Boston, Massachusetts

Spend the day exploring the historic sites of Boston, including the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and Quincy Market.

Day 2-3: Acadia National Park, Maine

Spend two full days hiking, exploring, and relaxing in this serene natural wonder.

Day 4-5: Burlington, Vermont

Explore the charming college town of Burlington and take a tour of a local brewery. Don’t forget to hike Mount Mansfield.

Day 6-7: Newport, Rhode Island

Visit the grand mansions and stroll through the charming streets of Newport. End the trip with a relaxing beach day.

Food and Drink Scene of New England

New England boasts a vibrant culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood, hearty comfort food, and craft beers. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Lobster Roll, Maine

No visit to Maine is complete without trying the iconic lobster roll, served on a toasted bun and topped with mayo or butter.

Clam Chowder, Massachusetts

Clam chowder is a New England classic, made with fresh clams, potatoes, and cream.

Maple Syrup, Vermont

Vermont is famous for its delicious maple syrup, which is used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, and more.

Apple Cider Donuts, Connecticut

These sweet treats are a fall favorite in Connecticut, made with freshly pressed apple cider and fried to perfection.

Jonnycakes, Rhode Island

Made with cornmeal, these savory pancakes are a Rhode Island specialty.

Local Beverages

In addition to maple syrup, New England is also famous for its craft beers. Try some local favorites like Harpoon Brewery and Sam Adams in Boston, Switchback Ale in Burlington, and Shipyard Brewing Company in Maine.

Where to Stay in New England: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

New England offers a variety of lodging options, with something for all budgets and preferences.

Boston, Massachusetts

For a luxurious stay in the heart of the city, stay at the Four Seasons Hotel Boston. For a more budget-friendly option, try the Student Prince and The Fort Dining Room.

Portland, Maine

For a waterfront stay, try the Portland Harbor Hotel. For a unique experience, book a stay at the Inn By The Sea, located on a nature preserve.

Newport, Rhode Island

For a luxurious experience, try the Hotel Viking or the Castle Hill Inn. For a budget-friendly stay, try the Newport Bay Club and Hotel.

Burlington, Vermont

For a cozy stay in the heart of the city, try the Hotel Vermont. For a unique experience, stay at the Inn at Shelburne Farms, a 19th-century mansion turned luxury inn.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

For a waterfront stay, try the Wentworth by the Sea, a Marriott Hotel & Spa. For a more budget-friendly option, try the Port Inn Portsmouth.

What to Buy in New England: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in New England, don’t forget to shop for local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best items to bring home:

Maple Syrup, Vermont

Bring home a bottle of delicious Vermont maple syrup.

Sea Salt, Maine

Maine is known for its sea salt, which is harvested from the Atlantic Ocean and is perfect for seasoning dishes.

Boat-made Baskets, Rhode Island

Block Island is home to some of the best boat-made baskets. Made from wooden fibers, they represent the state’s rich maritime history.

Cranberry Products, Massachusetts

Massachusetts is the second-largest producer of cranberries in the United States. Look for cranberry jams, jellies, and candies.

Handmade Soap, Connecticut

Connecticut is known for its artisanal soapmakers, who produce high-quality soaps with natural ingredients. Stock up on some for yourself or as gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of New England

New England has a proud history and distinct culture. Here are some of the local customs and traditions you might encounter:

Sports Fans

Sports are a big part of the culture in New England. Make sure to catch a game of the New England Patriots, Boston Red Sox, or Boston Celtics.

Colonial Architecture

New England is famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Explore the charming streets of Boston’s Beacon Hill or stroll through Portsmouth’s Strawberry Banke.

Seafood

New England is known for its fresh seafood, and lobster, clam chowder, and fried clams are local favorites.

Fall Foliage

Autumn is a special season in New England, with stunning displays of colorful foliage. Join locals in “leaf-peeping” by taking a scenic drive or hike.

Best Time to Visit New England

The best time to visit New England is from late September to mid-October when the autumn foliage is at its peak. Spring and summer are also great seasons, with moderate temperatures and outdoor activities. Winter is an excellent time for skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of New England

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your trip to New England:

Do:

  • Try the local seafood
  • Visit the historical sites and museums
  • Take in the scenic views
  • Bring warm clothes, especially in the fall and winter

Don’t:

  • Rush- take your time to enjoy the scenery and pace of New England
  • Overlook charming small towns and off-the-beaten-path destinations
  • Forget to tip your servers and hotel staff

Safety and Health

While New England is generally a safe destination, visitors should keep in mind the following:

Safety in New England

  • Use caution when driving in areas with heavy activity, wild animals, and winding roads.
  • Stay in safe, well-lit areas, particularly at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable items.

Health in New England

  • Drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Be aware of the ticks in wooded areas and protect yourself against Lyme Disease.

Getting to New England: Transportation Options and Logistics

New England is easily accessible, with multiple transportation options.

Airports Near New England

There are several airports across New England region that offer flights to major cities in the U.S. and abroad, including:

  • Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
  • Portland International Jetport (PWM)
  • Bradley International Airport (BDL)
  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)

Bus Stations Near New England

Bus services like Greyhound and Peter Pan offer bus routes to New England destinations, including:

  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Portland, Maine
  • Burlington, Vermont
  • Providence, Rhode Island

Other Options

Amtrak train services offer routes through New England, with stations located in Boston, Providence, Hartford, and more.

How to Get Around in New England

Uber, Lyft, Taxis, and rental cars are all available in New England to get around. New England’s public transportation network, consisting of bus and rail systems, is also an option. The “T” subway system in Boston is highly efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate.

Where to Go Next from New England: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

New England is located on the eastern coast of the US, making it an ideal starting point for exploring other destinations. Here are some nearby locations:

New York City, New York

Just a few hours south of New England, New York City offers world-class museums, attractions, and cultural experiences.

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal offers a distinct French-Canadian culture, amazing food, and an effervescent nightlife. A short drive from Vermont.

Niagara Falls, New York

Experience the beauty and power of one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, just a seven-hour drive from Boston.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is a vibrant city with many historical attractions and delicious cuisine. Just a six-hour drive from Portland, Maine.

Conclusion

New England offers a unique travel experience, from charming small towns to vibrant cities, from stunning mountains to pristine coastlines. Whether you are exploring history, enjoying outdoor activities, or indulging in food and drink, there’s something for everyone. Plan your trip today to discover all that New England has to offer.

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