Best Places to visit in New England

With iconic lighthouses, windswept coastlines, rows of clapboard houses, and down-to-earth hospitality, New England has a timeless beauty.  It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, explore at your own pace, and maybe treat yourself to a lobster roll or two along the way. This wonderful chunk of North America’s East Coast spans the six states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut – each offering its own array of activities and a sprinkle of charm.

Autumn is a particularly popular time to visit, thanks to the breath-taking foliage that transforms the region into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold. However, New England is a year-round destination, allowing you to explore the outdoors in spring, visit the beaches and seaside towns in summer, or snuggle up next to a cosy fire in a ski resort in winter.

When it comes to exploring, a road trip is hard to beat. It allows you the freedom to enjoy winding coastal roads, charming villages, and stunning ocean views at your own pace – making the journey just as special as the destinations themselves. Alternatively, the Downeaster train offers a great way to travel along the Maine coast, linking the major cities and providing a great way to take in New England’s beauty if you don’t enjoy driving.

From the bustling streets of Boston to the beauty of Acadia National Park, and the charming villages of Mystic to the coastal wonders of Cape Cod, here’s our guide to New England’s best bits:

 

New England Destinations in a nutshell:

• Boston, Massachusetts: The Freedom Trail, Red Sox baseball – and baked beans!
• Cape Cod, Massachusetts: Whale watching, beautiful beaches, and charming towns.
• Martha’s Vineyard & Hyannis, Massachusetts: Picturesque island, with lighthouses, ‘gingerbread’ cottages and scenic walks.
• Newport, Rhode Island: Millionaire mansions and cliffside walks with stunning ocean views.
• Acadia National Park, Maine: Gorgeous park with rugged trails and stunning ocean backdrops.
• Plymouth, Massachusetts: The spot where the Pilgrims settled, with a peaceful coastal charm.
• Providence, Rhode Island: Creative hotspot with arts, great architecture, and scenic river walks.
• Springfield, Massachusetts: Home of the Basketball Hall of Fame and lots of museums.
• Portland, Maine: A foodie haven by the sea, with plenty of charm and coastal views.
• Mystic, Connecticut: A charming town with maritime history and cobblestone streets.
• Ludlow, Vermont: Ski slopes and lots of outdoor fun.
• North Conway/White Mountains: Scenic Railway and a paradise for mountain lovers.
• New Haven, Connecticut: Home to Yale University and lots of cultural hotspots.

 

Boston, Massachusetts:

Boston is the largest city in New England and a popular starting point for exploring the region, with easy access to other iconic destinations. Boston holds a special place in American history and is known as the birthplace of the American Revolution following the events of the Boston Tea Party in 1773 that sparked a chain of dramatic events.  One of the best places to immerse yourself in this history is the iconic Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, which recreates the dramatic events of the time, through exhibits and restored 18th-century ships.  To follow in the footsteps of the patriots, take the famous Freedom Trail walk through the crooked streets of Boston’s North End. This 2 ½ mile route guides you through 16 significant sites, including the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s House, Granary Burying Ground, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, and King’s Chapel.

No trip to Boston would be complete without visiting the iconic Fenway Park, home to the legendary Red Sox baseball team. If you’re unable to catch a game, you can still explore the stadium with a guided tour, with a behind-the-scenes look at its history and a chance to visit areas such as the Green Monster and the press box.

New England is famed for its fresh seafood – particularly clam chowder and lobster rolls (made with fresh lobster meat in mayo or butter). But Boston also has its own signature dish: Boston baked beans. Quite different from the canned Heinz variety, these are made with molasses, brown sugar, and salt pork, giving them a unique sweet and savoury flavour.  And when it comes to drinking, the locals love their beer with plenty of bars and pubs to choose from. Including of course TV’s famous Cheers bar… where everybody knows your name!

 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts:

Cape Cod is home to endless stretches of sandy beaches, picturesque towns, and some incredible whale-watching.  In fact, Massachusetts is ranked among the top 10 whale-watching destinations in the world, so make sure you hop on a boat tour to spot these majestic creatures during peak season (typically from May to September).

For those who enjoy a good walk, the Cape Cod National Seashore stretches over 40 miles of coastline and features breathtaking trails, including the Great Island Trail.

Some of the popular towns to visit include Provincetown (also known as Ptown) which boasts beautiful beaches, eclectic shops, a thriving arts scene, great nightlife, and is renowned for its LGBTQ+ community. Wellfleet is another popular spot with its stunning beaches, art galleries, and fantastic seafood shacks. A little further along the coast, Chatham offers great views and wonderful opportunities for whale and seal spotting. Tours from Chatham take you to the waters around Monomoy Island, where you can see humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and seals. Chatham also boasts lovely beaches and a charming downtown area.

 

Martha’s Vineyard & Hyannis, Massachusetts:

Despite its name, Martha’s Vineyard (just south of Cape Cod) has no actual vineyards to speak of. But what it does offer is the quintessential New England experience: dreamy villages, nostalgic old-world charm, weathered clapboard houses, and iconic lighthouses. It’s no wonder that America’s rich and famous – including Barack and Michelle Obama – have holiday homes here.

Each part of the island has its own distinct feel. Oak Bluffs is one of the livelier spots, with its cheerful seafront, historic carousel, traditional ice cream parlours and fairytale ‘gingerbread’ cottages. It’s also home to the East Chop Lighthouse.   Edgartown is a bit more refined, with elegant 19th-century whaling captain’s houses, upmarket shops, and a pretty harbour. Vineyard Haven, the main port of entry, offers a little bit of everything.  For something quieter, head to the villages of Chilmark and Aquinnah (where you’ll find Gay Head Lighthouse perched on the cliffs), with their wild landscapes, peaceful beaches, and wonderful views.

Martha’s vineyard is accessible via a short ferry ride from the town of Hyannis, which in itself is a charming town.  It has a lovely waterfront, great shopping, and beautiful beaches – the perfect place to base yourself before heading to Martha’s Vineyard.

 

Newport, Rhode Island:

Newport was once the exclusive summer playground of America’s wealthiest families in the late 19th century. Families such as the Vanderbilts and Astors built their lavish second homes here along the coast, hosting extravagant parties and adhering to strict social etiquette.

While those times may have passed, Newport is still an elegant and popular destination. Many of the millionaire mansions are now museums that are open to the public. One of the most notable is The Breakers, a luxurious 70-room mansion featuring imported European marble, gilded ceilings, an impressive ballroom, multiple verandas, and a formal lawn that stretches to the water’s edge. Marble House, another Vanderbilt mansion, is also open to visitors.  The best way to take in the architectural grandeur of these estates is to stroll along the 3 ½-mile Cliff Walk, where you can enjoy dramatic coastal views alongside Newport’s Gilded Age elegance.

 

Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor, Maine:

Nestled along the dramatic coastline of Mount Desert Island, Acadia boasts everything from rugged cliffs to serene ponds. One of the park’s highlights is Cadillac Mountain, which you can reach by car or via one of the many scenic trails. Your reward when you reach the top is a spectacular view of the surrounding islands and ocean.  The park’s extensive network of trails offers everything from a leisurely stroll along Ocean Path, to more challenging routes such as the Precipice Trail. If you prefer not to walk at all, you can drive the Park Loop Road, which offers stunning views over the dramatic cliffs of Otter Cliff and the peaceful waters of Jordan Pond.  On this route, make sure you take a pit stop at Jordan Pond House to enjoy a traditional popover – a light, fluffy pastry often served with butter and jam. It’s the perfect treat with a cuppa.  You can also canoe or kayak on this or many other ponds in the park.

Many visitors to Acadia base themselves in Bar Harbor, just outside the park. The town is full of picturesque streets, seafood restaurants, and local shops. It’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring Acadia’s natural beauty.

 

Plymouth, Massachusetts:

Plymouth is a pretty coastal town on the western edge of Cape Cod Bay. The town’s biggest claim to fame is being the place where the Pilgrims finally decided to settle, making it a hotspot for history lovers and culture buffs. Visit Plymouth Rock, a boulder in Pilgrim Memorial State Park, marking the place where they are thought to have landed on shore.  To understand the Pilgrims’ voyage in more detail, hop on the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the original ship that sailed across the North Atlantic waters to reach Plymouth.  This fascinating replica features actors who tell the stories of the 102 people who lived on the overcrowded ship and their harrowing experiences during their 66 days onboard.  Meanwhile, The Plimoth Patuxet Museums bring the story of the English colonists and Indigenous Wampanoag people to life with reconstructed villages and a working grist mill.

The town itself has a delightful downtown with a mix of mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants.  Its pretty waterfront harbour is the perfect place to stop for an ice cream and watch the boats drift in.

 

Providence, Rhode Island:

Providence, Rhode Island’s capital, may be small, but it has a lot of personality. With its mix of architecture, and a creative energy fuelled by the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), the city has a lively, creative feel about it.  RISD is one of the most prestigious art universities in the USA and its impact can be felt over the city. Its museum, the RISD Museum, is a major attraction, housing over 100,000 works from ancient to contemporary art.

Throughout the city you’ll find public art installations, local galleries and theatres, showcasing the best of the university’s talent. One of the city’s most striking landmarks is the Rhode Island State House. It’s an impressive grand neoclassical building with a white marble dome that was modelled in part on St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.  Just a short walk away, wander along Benefit Street that is often called called the ‘Mile of History,’ due to its collection of Colonial-era homes and buildings. Here you’ll find the Providence Athenaeum which is a beautifully preserved 19th-century library that has welcomed many famous visitors including author and poet Edgar Allan Poe. For something a little more laidback, take the RiverWalk with scenic views along the Woonasquatucket and Providence Rivers.

 

Springfield, Massachusetts:

Situated along the banks of the Connecticut River, Springfield is known as the birthplace of basketball, and the Basketball Hall of Fame is a must-visit for sports fans. Here, you can learn about legendary players and teams, explore memorabilia, and discover the evolution of the game and its impact on American society.

Outside of basketball, Springfield has a range of historical and cultural attractions to explore. The Springfield Museums are a collection of five museums covering art, history, and science. You can also visit the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden – a tribute to the beloved author who was born in Springfield. For nature lovers, Forest Park provides a peaceful retreat with walking trails, a zoo, and pretty landscapes.

 

Portland, Maine:

The city of Portland stretches along Casco Bay, on the coast of Maine. Its location on a peninsula ensures stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.  The city boasts the perfect combination of waterfront charm, city energy, and a thriving foodie scene. With easy access to nearby islands such as Peaks Island and Great Diamond Island, as well as Maine’s rugged coastline, it’s a great place to enjoy both natural beauty and buzzing city life.

One of the most picturesque places to explore is the Old Port district, with its cobblestone streets, 19^th century brick buildings and a busy waterfront with boutiques and seafood restaurants. The city is also home to a number of stunning historical sites including Victoria Mansion, a mid-19^th century former home with stunningly ornate interiors.  As with many places on this coast, the city is great for foodies, with everything from waterfront restaurants to laid-back cafés – all with a focus on fresh, local seafood.

 

Mystic, Connecticut:

In southeastern Connecticut, nestled along the Mystic River, Mystic is a picture-postcard town with a deep maritime heritage, coastal beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere. This historic whaling village is home to more than 60 preserved buildings that transport you to a bygone era, with traditional workshops, old-fashioned stores, an apothecary, and a printing press. Key attractions include the Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium, which bring to life the area’s seafaring past and local marine life. At the Seaport Museum, you can step aboard historic ships, watch traditional shipbuilding demonstrations, and explore a recreated 19th-century coastal village.

The Mystic Aquarium allows you to touch tanks and enjoy encounters with beluga whales and sea lions. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge, which connects the two sides of the town and still opens to let boats pass through, is another iconic landmark. Beyond the landmarks and attractions, take time to wander the cobbled streets of Downtown Mystic and explore the little shops, cosy cafés, and stunning waterfront views.

 

Ludlow, Vermont:

Situated in the Green Mountains, Ludlow is a true winter wonderland with incredible skiing and snowboarding opportunities at Okemo Mountain Resort. However, if you’re planning to visit in the warmer months, there’s still plenty to do when the snow’s not on the ground – particularly for families. Take a ride on the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster (a mountain rollercoaster), take a chairlift ride in the mountains, or head to the Adventure Zone where you can zipline or try your hand on a bungee trampoline. For walkers, Buttermilk Falls is a lovely trail that leads to a picturesque waterfall, and Healdville Trail allows you to hike up to the fire tower on Okemo Mountain for a wonderful view of the Green Mountains.

 

North Conway / White Mountains, New Hampshire:

North Conway is often described as the gateway to the White Mountains, but this charming New Hampshire town is a destination in its own right with its quirky local shops, classic diners and sweeping views from Cathedral Ledge. It’s also the departure point for the Conway Scenic Railroad, where vintage trains take you on a picturesque journey through the mountains and valleys.   A wonderful way to experience the region’s beauty in a nostalgic and scenic way.

As for the White Mountains themselves, they offer endless possibilities, from scenic trails and dramatic waterfalls to driving the famous Kancamagus Highway or heading up Mount Washington via the auto road or the historic cog railway. And when winter arrives, the region transforms into a snowy playground, perfect for skiing and snowboarding.

 

New Haven, Connecticut:

A short drive from Newport, New Haven is home to one of the most prestigious universities in the world: Yale University. It’s open to visitors all year-round, even when students are present. Wander around the stunning campus and landscaped grounds and enjoy taking in its grand 19th-century Collegiate Gothic buildings, Neoclassical architecture, and more modern structures. Must-sees include the Yale University Art Gallery, Yale Center for British Art, and the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, where you can view rare books and manuscripts.

It’s not all about the uni though.  Head to East Rock Park for panoramic views of the city or brush up on your history at the Peabody Museum of Natural History and the Knights of Columbus Museum. New Haven is renowned for its ‘apizza’. It’s a unique style of pizza with a thin, crispy crust, cooked in a coal-fired oven. So make sure you try a slice at one of legendary spots.

 

If any of these destinations spark your interest and you’re eager to explore them on a multi-centre holiday to New England, whether by car or by train, please get in touch with our team. We’d love to help you plan your perfect trip so that you can experience the very best of New England.