spring day trips new england

New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Connecticut , Maine , Martha's Vineyard , Massachusetts , Nantucket , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  January 14, 2023

35 Fun Day Trips In New England To Take In 2024

Between gorgeous, historic cities to some of the most stunning coastline the U.S. has to offer, New England offers an incredible variety of day trip destinations for pretty much anyone. Whether you’re looking to tackle some epic hikes in the mountains, spend the day by the beach, get lost on cobblestone streets or spend your day eating all the amazing food, I’ve got you covered with my suggestions on the absolute best day trips in New England!

Hi there, and welcome! I’ve been exploring the New England region for over 15 years now, and I also live locally in the northeast. My favorite thing in the world is to explore this corner of the U.S., and I’ve covered a lot of ground over the years. I truly believe that all of the places I’ve included on this list are worth your time, and are easy to navigate with just one day.

I’ve also grouped each destination by season, but it’s good to know that pretty much all of these suggestions are wonderful year-round . In fact, it was really hard to group some of them into a specific season because many of them offers incredible things to do year-round. So, while I’ve made some seasonal suggestions, keep in mind that most places are truly perfect throughout the entire year.

Are you ready? Let’s get started!

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Best Day Trips In New England In The Summer

1. provincetown, ma.

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Plymouth, other towns on Cape Cod, Massachusetts North & South Shore.

One of the most unique towns in the entire U.S. is Provincetown, and because it’s small and easily walkable, it makes for a perfect day trip in New England.

Provincetown is an especially easy day trip for those coming from Boston and Plymouth, as there are ferries that will take you right to MacMillan Pier in downtown Provincetown. Both ferry options only take 90 minutes, making them very convenient options.

🛳 Click here to check out the ferry from Boston to Provincetown!

🛳 Click here to checkout the ferry from Plymouth to Provincetown!

During the summer season, a free shuttle takes visitors from MacMillan Pier to Race Point and Herring Cove beaches, which are two of the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod. And once you’re in Ptown (as the locals call it!), you can easily walk everywhere.

Top things to check out in Provincetown:

• The Cape Cod National Seashore
• Commercial Street
• Lobster Pot restaurant
• Pilgrim Monument
• The real pilgrim landing site
• Beautiful art galleries

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more awesome things to do in Provincetown!

2. Nantucket, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod

One of the best day trips from Cape Cod is Nantucket Island, and I also think it’s one of the best places to see in all of New England . Filled with picturesque coastal scenery around every turn, I always describe Nantucket as both modern and stuck in time. Between the historic homes and cobblestone streets, breathtaking beaches and the most charming downtown boutiques, it’s the perfect way to spend a day when in the area.

→ Click here to read my guide on everything you need to know about a Nantucket day trip!

3. Martha’s Vineyard

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston , New Bedford

Martha’s Vineyard is the other Cape Cod island that’s popular for summer vacations and day trips, and for good reason! It’s a bit bigger than Nantucket, but the ferry ride over from Cape Cod is shorter. And with 6 gorgeous towns to explore, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun on a day trip.

While there is no direct ferry from Boston to Martha’s Vineyard, there is a day tour that you can book that will take care of all the transportation for you! This is a great way to plan a summer escape from the city without having to drive yourself.

🚐 Click here to book your Boston to Martha’s Vineyard tour!

Here are some other Martha’s Vineyard posts you may find helpful :

• The Ultimate Guide To A Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip!
• Is Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket Better For A Day Trip?
• How To See Martha’s Vineyard Without A Car
• Best Things To Do On Martha’s Vineyard

4. Block Island, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding Rhode Island areas

As much as I love Cape Cod and the Islands, I think Block Island is such a special place and deserves more hype. This little island sits off the coast of Point Judith, RI, and is a short 30-60 minute ferry from there, making this a very easy day trip from the Ocean State!

And one of the amazing things about this little island is that all the beaches are completely free for all visitors, which is a rare thing in New England. In addition to that, there are some really wonderful restaurants, a cute downtown and some gorgeous sites to see.

→ Click here to read my full guide on taking a Block Island day trip!

5. Newport, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Nicknamed The City By The Sea, Newport feels more like a charming coastal town than a vibrant city. Packed with history, stunning Gilded Age mansions, character, beautiful coastline views, beaches, and an exciting culinary scene, there are so many fun things to do there that make for a perfect day trip in New England.

The biggest tip I have for you about Newport in the summer is that it can get busy, which means parking can sometimes be challenging. I highly recommend that you park and leave your car for the entire day, rather than trying to drive everywhere. Newport is pretty walkable, but a great option is taking a trolley tour so you can see the major sites in a short amount of time.

This particular tour also includes admission to The Breakers Mansion, which is one of the top things to see in Newport: → Click here to check out the trolley & Breakers Mansion tour in Newport

Newport also offers amazing tours out on the water! A great way to end your day trip is with a sunset cruise, and this is an awesome one to consider: → Click here to check out this sunset cruise in Newport!

→ Click here to read my full guide on a Newport day trip!

6. Westerly, RI

Best as a day trip from: Newport, Boston, Providence and surrounding areas

Westerly is one of the best beach towns in Rhode Island for a summer vacation or day trip! With miles of gorgeous shoreline to explore across several stunning beaches, this is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day.

And not only are the beaches absolutely beautiful, there’s also a charming downtown with awesome restaurants and shops to explore. Westerly is also home to the charming village of Watch Hill, which is where you’ll find a lighthouse, the iconic Ocean House resort, Napatree Point (pictured above!) and lots of beautiful scenery.

Here are some other great things to check out in Westerly:

• Misquamicut State Beach – the best public beach in town!
• Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery
• Grey Sail Brewing
• Sailing tour with Sail Trim Again

Tips for visiting Watch Hill in Westerly : Parking here in tough during high season (summer) and on weekends. The free parking spots are limited to 2 hours, so if you plan to dine anywhere, or spend time at the beaches, you’ll want to arrange for paid parking in one of the lots. Parking around the rest of Westerly isn’t as big of an issue.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Westerly, RI & Watch Hill!

7. Kennebunkport, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Boston

Honestly, Kennebunkport is an amazing coastal destination year-round because they really know how to celebrate what’s special about each season. In fact, their Christmas events have put this cute little community on the map as one of the best Christmas towns in the U.S.! But the summer is definitely one of the most popular season to experience Kennebunkport.

This town really has it all – lovely stores and restaurants, a quaint downtown, New England charm, dramatic coastline and gorgeous beaches. Here are a few wonderful things to do on a Kennebunkport day trip:

• Walk Parson’s Way for amazing coastal views (and see the famous Bush compound!)
• Walk through the shops at Dock Square.
• Visit the beaches (Gooch’s, Mother’s and Goose Rocks).
• Get a lobster roll from The Clam Shack.
• Take a lobster boat tour with Rugosa.

8. Ogunquit, ME

Another charming town that’s perfect for enjoying a summer day in Maine is Ogunquit. This destination is home to one of the best beaches in Maine – Ogunquit Beach, which has 3 miles of beautiful, soft, sandy shoreline to enjoy.

In addition to the beach, you’ll find an incredibly charming town with great shops and restaurants, and one of my absolute favorite things to do in all of Maine – Marginal Way, which is a gorgeous pedestrian path along the coastline.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Ogunquit!

9. Boothbay Harbor, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland and surrounding areas.

Located between Portland and Acadia National Park, you’ll find the adorable town of Boothbay Harbor. While this destination is great during spring, summer and fall, summer is one of the best times to visit because all the seasonal restaurants and boat tours will be open, allowing you to get the full experience during your trip.

One of the reasons I love Boothbay Harbor so much is because of all the amazing options available for boat tours. Boats here go a bit further north than tours that depart from Portland, so you’ll get to see some more remote parts of the coastline, lighthouses and incredible wildlife. They even offer tours to see a puffin colony!

One of the coolest tours to take during a day trip is the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap tour , which offers so many great things to see in just 1.5 hours. During the cruise, you’re also likely to spot some seals in the water, and watch a real lobster trap haul.

→ Click here to check rates & availability for the Seals, Lighthouses & Lobster Trap Tour

Psst! I have a detailed guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor , if you need more ideas for your day trip 😉

10. Lubec, ME

Best as a day trip from: Bar Harbor, Bangor

Okay, so Lubec is a bit more challenging as a day trip because it’s so remote, and pretty close to the Canadian border, but I wanted to include it on this list for anyone looking for an amazing day trip option that’s a bit of a hidden gem.

Lubec offers absolutely stunning opportunities for hiking and coastline views, and is also home to the famous red and white striped lighthouse, West Quoddy Light. I also love that it’s a quaint and quiet little fishing village that not many people visit. The actual village itself doesn’t have a ton to do, but I think the landscapes and hiking here are more than worth the effort to visit.

A few things that are a must for a day trip:

• Explore West Quoddy State Park to see the lighthouse and do some of the walking trails.
• Hike the Boot Head Preserve trail.
• Taste the local beer at Lubec Brewing Company.
• Take a boat tour to Old Sow Whirlpool.

→ Click here to read my full guide on even more things to do in Lubec!

11. Mystic, CT

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Providence

One of the most charming towns along the Connecticut coast is Mystic, made famous, of course, by the movie Mystic Pizza . Mystic makes for a wonderful day trip in the area because it’s small and walkable, offers boat tours along the river and is close to the Connecticut Wine Trail, which is incredibly fun and scenic!

One of the top things to do in Mystic is the Mystic Seaport Museum , which is a highly interactive museum that’s built to replicate a historic New England ship yard and town. You can climb aboard historic tall ships and admire the views of the river while learning about its incredible history. This is actually a really fun way to spend a few hours in Mystic (and I’m not usually a museum person!).

→ Click here to get your ticket to the Mystic Seaport Museum

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Mystic, CT if you’re looking for more ideas 😉

12. Manchester, VT

Best as a day trip from: The Berkshires, Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding areas in Vermont

While Vermont is known as a top fall and winter destination in New England, I especially love to visit Manchester in the summer. Located in southern Vermont, this cute little town is home to some really fun ways to cool down on hot summer days, including swimming in a rock quarry and floating down a river in an inner tube.

The Dorset Marble Quarry is just a few minutes from downtown Manchester, and is a really cool and unique place to go for a swim. And with Vermont River Runners , you can rent an inner tube and float down the Battenkill River. They’ll even pick you up at the end do you don’t have to worry about getting back to your car!

Once you’re done splashing in the water, you can also explore the cute little downtown, which has some lovely shops and eateries, and maybe even visit Hildene , which is a former Lincoln family home, and boasts stunning garden displays and mountain views.

13. Shelburne Falls, MA

This small little town nestled in The Berkshires has been made famous by its No. 1 attraction – the Bridge of Flowers. And honestly? It’s worth the type.

Once an old trolley bridge that became obsolete is now a beautiful and cheerful display of colorful flowers from spring to fall. But in the summer, you’ll find the most blooms to enjoy during your visit.

Shelbune Falls also has a Trolley Museum, brewery and one of the oldest bowling alleys in the country, so you’ll definitely be able to fill your day trip with cool things to do.

14. Gloucester, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North Shore, Plymouth

Gloucester is another destination that’s really great to visit in spring, summer and fall, but since it’s home to one of the best beaches along the North Shore, it makes for an especially wonderful day trip in New England in the summer months.

Wingaersheek Beach is a beautiful spot for swimming, and makes for an awesome escape from city life in Boston and Portland. You can easily spend your entire day just at the beach, as it has a snack shack, and provides a beautiful sunset.

Gloucester is also one of the best locations in the Northeast for whale watching! Tours from Gloucester cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is regarded as the best spot in New England for spotting wildlife.

→ Click here to book your whale watch in Gloucester!

Gloucester is also home to a beautiful lighthouse, wonderful downtown with shops and amazing restaurants, and a waterfront park to explore.

Best New England Day Trips In The Fall

15. bar harbor/acadia national park.

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bangor

While Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor can be challenging to do as a day trip because of their location, it’s absolutely worth the effort! Acadia National Park, especially, is one of the best things to see in all of New England, so even a day spent here is better than not seeing it at all. And during the fall season, you’ll experience better temperatures for hiking, as well as stunning fall foliage.

But honestly, spring and summer are equally as great, so it’s really personal preference on when you plan your day trip!

Psst! I have a full Acadia National Park itinerary , which includes a bonus day trip itinerary option, and a guide on the best time to visit Acadia National Park , which you may find helpful 😉

16. Springfield, MA For The Big E Fair

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Providence, Newport, Mystic

One of the best days trips to take to celebrate the end of summer and beginning of fall is Springfield, so you can attend The Big E, which is the biggest fair in New England!

All 6 of the New England states take part in this fair, and between the awesome fair and regional foods, rides, shopping, exhibitions, live performances and so much more, it really is the quintessential fair experience. Many people come from all over the region to attend, so you know it must be good.

17. Salem, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Providence, Plymouth

Salem is regarded as one of the top Halloween destinations in the entire world, so it rarely needs an introduction. But I can honestly say that it really is such a fun place to experience during the month of October. And because it’s smaller than most people realize, it’s actually very easy to explore in a day.

Since Salem is about all things spooky, I highly suggest getting into the spirit and doing a spooky tour of some sort. There are so many tours offered in Salem that talk about everything from the fascinating history, to Hocus Pocus filing locations to all the very creepy ghost sightings.

A great tour that’s perfect for most people is this History & Hauntings Tour, which talks about the history with a few spooky facts thrown in for good measure : → Click here to book the History & Hauntings Tour in Salem!

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 😉

18. Plymouth, MA

Best as a day trip from: Cape Cod, Boston, Massachusetts South & North Shore, Providence, Newport

Plymouth is one of the oldest towns in the entire U.S., so of course, it’s absolutely worth a day trip if in the area! And while it’s known for its history, it’s also home to some beautiful parks and a cute downtown.

The reason I love Plymouth for a day trip in the fall is because there’s something about this area that reminds me so much of “back to school,” and it also does a fantastic job celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday, of course! It’s also one of the last parts of New England to hit peak fall foliage, so if you’re looking for a foliage destination in early November, Plymouth is perfect for that timeframe!

However, Plymouth is, of course, wonderful year-round, too 😊

The top attraction in Plymouth is the Plimoth Patuxet Museum, which immerses visitors into the life of the early settlers. You can even climb aboard the Mayflower II, which is a working replica of the original Mayflower! → Click here to get your tickets to the Plimoth Patuxet Museums!

In addition to the museums, some other great things to check out in Plymouth are:

• Mirbeau Spa
• The shops and eateries downtown
• Brewster Gardens
• Pilgrim Memorial State Park
• Plymouth Bay Winery
• Plymouth Long Beach

Psst! I have an entire post on visiting Plymouth, MA , if you need more ideas for your day trip!

19. Marblehead, MA

Along the Massachusetts North Shore is the beautiful town of Marblehead, which is really great to visit in both summer and fall. But fall is an especially beautiful time to visit because of the stunning foliage displays, of course.

While walking around to enjoy the foliage, you’ll also want to be sure to visit the charming shops in the historic district, enjoy the coastal views from Castle Rock Park, take a walk on Devereux Beach and admire the gorgeous, historic New England homes.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Marblehead!

20. Newburyport, MA

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Portland, Massachusetts North & South Shore

Newburyport is another destination that’s truly wonderful year-round, but I especially love it in the fall because of all the fall color. This is also one of my top places to visit for shopping, and even Boston Magazine named Tannery Marketplace in Newburyport one of the best places for shopping on the North Shore.

Newburyport is also pretty small, and the downtown area is very walkable, making this a perfect day trip option. It’s also home to Plum Island, which has beautiful beaches, as well as the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, which has gorgeous nature trails to explore.

Here are a few awesome things to do on a Newburyport day trip:

• Stroll along the waterfront park.
• Explore all the amazing shops in Market Square and Tannery Marketplace.
• Visit Maudslay State Park.
• Drive to Plum Island to see the beaches, and hit the scenic trails in the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

→ Click here to read my full guide on visiting Newburyport!

21. The Berkshires

Best as a day trip from: Northwestern Massachusetts, surrounding Vermont areas

During the fall season, The Berkshires puts on a beautiful foliage display, and this is one of the most cozy places to be this time of the year. Between all the amazing hiking opportunities, quaint towns and gorgeous mountain landscapes, it also makes for a fun and adventurous day trip in Massachusetts.

The Berkshires is actually made up of 31 towns and 2 cities, so it’s a pretty big area to tackle in a day trip, but that just means you have a lot of exciting activities to choose from. Here are a few awesome things to consider for a fall day trip to The Berkshires:

• Go seasonal beer and hard cider tasting (there are tons of options!).
• Admire the foliage during a ziplining tour with Berkshire East Mountain Resort.
• Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Greylock for amazing fall foliage views.
• Pick apples, hike and sample the local wine at Hilltop Orchards.

22. Woodstock, VT

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas , White Mountains

One of the top fall foliage destinations in the entire U.S. is Vermont, and Woodstock is one of the most charming and picturesque towns to experience. In Woodstock, not only will you get the enjoy the foliage that Vermont is famous, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie set when you arrive to the cute little town.

Woodstock’s village is about as perfect as can be with beautiful boutiques and quaint restaurants. In the center of town, there’s even a covered bridge!

But just outside of the village, you’ll find Billings Farm & Museum, which is regarded as one of the best interactive agricultural museums in the country. You can also visit Sugarbush Farms to sample their own maple syrups and cheeses, and enjoy stunning mountain views dripping in fall color.

→ Click here to read my full guide on the best things to do in Woodstock!

23. Burlington, VT

Another wonderful day trip in Vermont in the fall season is Burlington. As the largest city in the state, it has a lot to offer including the beautiful Lake Champlain, amazing restaurants, art galleries, breweries and so much more.

In fact, one of the most fun things to do in Burlington on a day trip is dive into the local brewing scene with a tour!

Vermont produces some of the top beers in the country, and this tour is led by a local expert that gives you all the insider tips, and allows you to sample up to 12 different beers. This time of the year, there are likely to be seasonal beers available, too. → Click here to book your brewery tour in Burlington!

You’ll also want to be sure to walk the waterfront path along Lake Champlain for beautiful fall foliage views, and hit up Church Street Marketplace to enjoy the local shops.

24. Littleton, NH

Best as a day trip from: Vermont, surrounding New Hampshire areas

One of my personal favorite towns in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire is Littleton. Not only has it been named of the best Main Streets in the entire country, it’s home to a charming little community with awesome shops, restaurants, a brewery, and the world’s largest candy counter (it’s true!).

And since it’s only about 20 minutes from some of the top fall foliage sites in Franconia Notch State Park (like Flume Gorge and Echo Lake), this is the perfect day trip to take while exploring the area.

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Littleton .

25. Montpelier, VT

Montpelier is Vermont’s capital, and I think it’s a very underrated destination in the area. The cool thing about Montpelier is that it’s a city that feels like both a city and a quaint town at the same time, so exploring for the day is very easy to do. And during the fall season, there are a lot of fun seasonal activities you can enjoy.

Here are a few things you should look into for a Montpelier day trip in the fall:

• The annual Enchanted Forest Celebration in October.
• Visit Peck Farm Orchard to pick apples, get some cider donuts and sample their hard cider.
• Stroll through town to visit the boutiques and eateries.
• Head to Hubbard Park to enjoy the fall foliage.
• Drive to nearby Groton State Forest to tackle some fall foliage hikes.

26. Litchfield Hill, CT

Best as a day trip from: Mystic, The Berkshires, New Haven, Hartford

Fun fact: Amy Sherman Palladino based Stars Hollow on a few towns in the Litchfield Hills area of Connecticut, so this is one of the best New England day trips for Gilmore Girls fans. It’s said that Washington Depot was her main inspiration, but many have claimed that New Milford’s town green feels most like a Stars Hollow set.

But even if you know nothing about Gilmore Girls , this is an incredibly stunning area to visit for a day trip, especially in the fall. You’ll find covered bridges, scenic drives, cozy restaurants, quaint towns and state parks that will be ablaze with foliage color this time of the year. And since all the small towns are pretty close to one another, you can easily see most of them in one day trip.

The towns in Litchfield county also have tons of fun fall festivals and events that take place through September and October, and those are worth checking out.

Here are some awesome ideas for the perfect fall day trip to the Litchfield Hills:

• Explore the charming town of Kent, including Bull’s Covered Bridge and Kent Falls State Park.
• Drive the scenic Route 7 to New Milford to enjoy the town green, and take in stunning foliage views from Lovers Leap State Park.
• Enjoy the picturesque town of Washington Depot, and sample the local wines at Hopkins Vineyard.
• Drive to Litchfield and enjoy getting lost in the Bunnell Farm corn maze, and explore the cute town.

Best New England Day Trips In The Winter

27. stowe, vt.

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding Vermont areas, White Mountains

Stowe is hard to beat as a charming, small town winter day trip in Vermont. It’s also one of the best places in Vermont in the fall season, but I decided to add it to the winter section because it has a little something extra in the winter that just feels magical.

In January, you can visit during their winter carnival to see professional ice sculptors in action. And you can also plan a visit to the Spruce Peak Lodge resort to skate at their scenic ice rink, and enjoy lunch at one of their restaurants.

And, of course, you can’t talk about Stowe without mentioning the ski resort, which is continually voted as one of the best in the region. If you love to hit the slopes in the winter, this is one of the best day trips you can take in New England!

→ Click here to read my full guide on all the best things to do in Stowe!

28. Camden, ME

Best as a day trip from: Portland, Bar Harbor, surrounding areas in Maine

Camden is honestly awesome year-round, especially in the summer for windjammer cruises around the harbor, and in the fall season for colorful foliage. But in winter, it’s home to one of the most exciting winter parks in Maine – the Camden Snow Bowl.

The Camden Snow Bowl offers ski trails, a snow tubing park, and even a very fun toboggan chute. In February, the famous toboggan chute is actually the location of the U.S. Toboggan Championships. But if you visit outside of the competition weekend, visitors are able to fly down the chute during their visit (which I highly recommend).

Camden is also often named one of Maine’s most beautiful towns, so during your day trip, you should also plan to visit the charming Main Street downtown, which is home to cute shops and restaurants.

29. Lincoln, NH

Best as a day trip from: Surrounding areas in the White Mountains and Vermont, Portsmouth

If you’re nearby Lincoln, NH in the winter season, you’ll want to consider a day trip to see the famous Ice Castles, which only puts on a few displays throughout the U.S. Technically located in South Woodstock (which is only a few minutes from Lincoln), the Ice Castles display is really something special to see with your own eyes.

Not only is there a giant castle carved out of ice (that changes each year!), there are also often special features like ice slides, sleigh rides, tunnels, tubing and more.

And because there are so many other winter activities in Lincoln like skiing and scenic gondola rides at Loon Mountain, ice skating at RiverWalk resort, sleigh rides at Franconia Notch stables, there are tons of ways to fill up your day trip itinerary.

→ Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Lincoln!

30. Jackson, NH

Jackson is another amazing winter destination for a day trip in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire. And since it’s only just an over an hour from Lincoln, you could easily combine the two for a winter wonderland day of fun.

One of the best things to do in the winter is actually drive from Lincoln (the previous suggestion!) to Jackson for a scenic winter drive. You have two options for this, both of which are beautiful: The Kancamagus Highway, and the drive through Crawford Notch State Park (along Route 302). Both will take about the same amount of time, so it’s really personal preference.

Once you arrive in Jackson, there are tons of downhill, cross-country ski and snowshoe trails to explore.

Another wonderful winter activity in Jackson is Nestlenook Farms, which has one of the most beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks, and they also offer sleigh rides along lantern-lit trails, as well as fire pits to warm up next to.

31. Portsmouth, NH

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, Boston, Providence, Newport, Massachusetts North & South Shore , Portland and surrounding areas

Portsmouth is another destination in New England that feels like both a city and a quaint, charming town, and in the winter, it feels like the most perfect, cozy winter day trip adventure.

One of the top things to do in the city during the winter season is skate at the outdoor rink at Puddle Dock Pond, which is part of the Strawbery Banke Museum. The ice rink is backdropped by historic houses, and you can’t help but feel like you’re in a cute little New England village while you make your way around the ice.

After your skating adventure, you’ll want to walk through the beautiful historic side streets to Market Square, where you’ll find tons of beautiful stores and amazing restaurants for a cozy meal. One of the coolest places to eat in Portsmouth is the Book & Bar, which is, as you probably guessed, a bookstore, bar and cafe all in one.

Pro Tip : To stay warm while you explore, grab a hot chocolate from Elephantine Bakery before you begin your stroll around Market Square.

32. Boston, MA

Best as a day trip from: Providence, Portland, Cape Cod, Plymouth, Massachusetts North & South Shore, Newport

Boston is a wonderful city to visit year-round, but I actually think winter is one of the best seasons to explore because it’s far less crowded. Sure, the winter weather isn’t exactly idea, but if you get lucky enough to experience a fresh snowfall, it’s simply so beautiful to see the cobblestone streets covered in a dusting of snow.

Plus, because Boston has so many wonderful things to do indoors, as well as a few fun outdoor activities, it’s hard to beat for a city winter escape.

One of the best ways to get around Boston any time of the year is by trolley. This allows you to park your car for the day and have someone else take you to the best locations around the city. One option is the hop on/hop off pass, which is perfect for day-trippers. → Click here to book your Boston trolley passes!

And is it just me, or if your appetite bigger in the winter? I especially love food tours in the colder months for this reason, and Boston is an amazing destination to dive deep into the culinary world.

There are some awesome tours throughout the city to introduce you to the best foods in Boston, and you can click the link below to read my picks for the best ones . → Click here to check out my round-up of the best Boston food tours!

And for outdoor fun in the winter on your day trip, you’ll want to head to Frog Pond in Boston Common for ice skating , which is one of the best things to do in Massachusetts in the winter . This is especially fun at night when the rink is surrounded by twinkle lights, and you can see the city landscape light up as you make your way around the ice. You’ll also want to grab a cup of hot chocolate from L.A. Burdick to savor while you walk around to explore.

For indoor activities, you can visit the New England Aquarium, do some shopping at Copley Place, get tickets to a show, and make reservations for a fun dinner out before leaving (I’m especially fond of the Italian restaurants in the North End, but there are tons of places to choose from all over the city!).

33. Providence, RI

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Newport, Cape Cod, Plymouth

Providence is the capital of Rhode Island, and is a wonderful day trip to take in the winter season (and year-round, too!)! Not only will you get to enjoy everything the city has to offer in terms of great food, culture, theater, and historic sites, there are also some very fun ways to enjoy the winter season in Providence.

To enjoy the brisk winter weather, you’ll want to head to the BankNewport City Center Rink in downtown Providence. Here, you can enjoy ice skating and … ice bumper cars? Yes, you read that right! This rink is also home to this unique and fun winter activity that’s sure to make you feel like a kid again.

34. Killington, VT

Best as a day trip from: White Mountains, surrounding areas in Vermont

One of the best places in Vermont for skiing and outdoor winter fun is Killington Ski Resort, so this is the perfect day trip option for anyone looking to spend all day outdoors playing in the snow.

At Killington, you’ll find a large network of downhill ski trails, as well as a really fun snow tubing park, a roller coaster, snowmobile tours, snowshoe trails and even a spa (which is the perfect way to end your day trip after playing outside all day!).

35. Portland, ME

Best as a day trip from: Boston, Massachusetts North & South Shore, surrounding areas in Maine

Finally, let’s talk about Portland, one of the coolest destinations in Maine in the winter season. While Portland is also wonderful year-round, I especially enjoy it in the winter for the same reasons I like Boston in the winter – fewer crowds, and a bigger appetite to eat all the food 🙂

Portland is another incredible foodie destination in New England, and you’ll definitely want to consider a culinary tour during your day trip.

One of the best foodie tours in the city is this Old Port culinary walking tour, which takes you to some of the best spots in the most beautiful and historic part of the city! Click here to book your Old Port Culinary Tour in Portland!

Other posts on Portland to help you plan your trip:

• Best Things To Do In Portland In The Winter
• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine

Best New England Day Trips In New England For Families

Pretty much every destination on this list makes for a wonderful day trip with the kids, but here are my picks for places that are especially perfect day trips in New England for families. I’ve included a few kid-friendly suggestions for each destination to plan the perfect itinerary.

→ Boston, MA : New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Museum of Science, Legoland Discovery Center, boat ride at the Public Gardens, The Lawn On D.

→ Mystic, CT: Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Seaport Museum to climb aboard tall ships, B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill (fall season), sail boat tours, watch the Bascule Bridge in action.

→ Woodstock, VT : Billings Farm & Museum is one of the top attractions for families in Vermont, Silver Lakes State Park, ice cream at Woodstock Scoops, horse-drawn carriage rides.

→ Providence, RI: Roger Williams Park Zoo, WaterFire events, Providence Children’s Museum, ice skating (winter), Water Place Park.

→ Block Island : 1661 Farm and Gardens, The Ice Cream Place, free beaches, and kids will love the ferry ride to get there!

Best New England Day Trips For Couples

As I’m sure you can imagine, all of the destinations from this list are amazing day trips for couples, but here are my picks that are especially perfect for a romantic day together:

→ Kennebunkport : This is a romantic destination year-round, and is especially perfect at Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or for a summer day trip.

→ Nantucket : The island is one of the most picturesque places in the U.S., and the beaches are absolutely stunning and offer incredible sunsets for a romantic stroll.

→ Stowe : Perfect for a fall or winter day trip, Stowe is such a quintessential New England town that’s cozy and romantic.

→ Litchfield, CT : Spend your day admiring fall foliage, covered bridges, eating at cozy restaurants and walking around quaint villages while holding hands.

You may also enjoy reading:

• Best Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
• Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Lovely Things To Do In New England In The Spring
• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• Awesome New England Winter Getaways (Even For Non-Skiers!)
• 60+ Things To Do In Vermont
• The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
• Summer In Connecticut: The Best Things To Do!
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Time To Visit New England
• My Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Day Trips

And there you have it! My picks for the best day trips in New England. So, where are you planning to go first? Maybe hit the beaches in Provincetown? Wander the historic streets in Boston? Regardless of where you go, one thing’s for sure – it’s going to be a memorable day!

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The 37 Best New England Day Trips by Season (2024)

New England may be small compared to other regions in the U.S., but there are endless places to visit. I’ve lived here for almost five years and still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of all there is to see and do.

The six states that make up this region — Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont — offer a beautiful blend of coastal landscapes, picturesque countryside, and vibrant urban centers.

After traveling extensively in this stunning corner of the country, I’ve compiled this list of the 37 best day trips in New England.

⏰ Short on time? Here are my top four New England day trip recommendations:

☀️ summer top pick: ogunquit, maine, best things to do in ogunquit:.

• Soak up the sun on Ogunquit Beach
• Browse the shops at Perkins Cove
• Hike Marginal Way
• Walk along Main Street
• Eat seafood at Ogunquit Beach Lobster House

Best Hotels if You Want to Extend Your Stay: 

📍 Ogunquit River Inn & Suites 📍 The Grand Hotel

🍁 Fall Top Pick: Acadia National Park, Maine

Best things to do in acadia:.

• Drive or hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain
• Hike the Ocean Path Trail and relax on Sand Beach
• Hike around Jordan’s Pond and order popovers at Jordan’s Pond House Restaurant
• Drive the scenic Park Loop Road
• Visit the nearby town of Bar Harbor

Best Hotels if You Want to Extend Your Stay:

📍 The Inn on Mount Desert 📍 Bar Harbor Grand Hotel

❄️ Winter Top Pick: Stowe, Vermont

Best things to do in stowe:.

• Ski at Stowe Mountain Resort or Smugglers’ Notch Resort
• Explore the shops and galleries in downtown Stowe
• Hike or snowshoe along the Stowe Recreation Path

📍 Trapp Family Lodge 📍 Stowe Village Inn

🌸 Spring Top Pick: Boston, Massachusetts

Best things to do in boston:.

• Tour the Freedom Trail  
• Visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
• Go on a Duck Boat Tour
• Explore the Public Garden and Boston Common
• Stroll along Newbury Street and the Charles River Esplanade
• Take a walk down Charles Street in Beacon Hill

📍 Hyatt Regency Boston Harbor 📍 Omni Parker House

Best Day Trips in New England in the Summer

New England summers are fantastic. Since most of the states have their own coastline, it’s no surprise that many of the top places to visit in the summer are near the water. But I’ve included a couple of amazing inland destinations as well!

Here are my favorite summer day trip destinations in New England:

1. Ogunquit, Maine

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Portland, ME; Manchester, NH

I had never heard of Ogunquit until my husband surprised me with a birthday trip there one year, and this coastal town quickly became one of my favorite places in New England.

Start your day with some fun in the sun at Ogunquit Beach , the largest and most popular beach in town. The beach sits on a small strip of land separated from the mainland by a small saltwater river. People often sit on the riverside to enjoy the calm water (especially great if you have small kiddos!).

Stop for seafood at the Ogunquit Beach Lobster House before walking to Main Street to browse the many shops and cafes lined on either side.

Be sure to also visit Perkins Cove, a cluster of quaint shops and restaurants nestled along Ogunquit Harbor. From there, you’ll find the entrance to Marginal Way , a 1.25-mile trail that stretches along the coast and provides stunning views of the ocean the entire way.

2. Portland, Maine

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Bangor, ME; Portsmouth, NH

Pay a visit to Maine’s largest city, Portland . Also located on the Atlantic Ocean, Portland is an eclectic city with both a rich New England heritage and artsy, hipster vibes.

Here you will find one of New England’s smallest lighthouses, Bug Light , which is only 26 feet tall. From there, walk along the beautiful Eastern Promenade for incredible views of Casco Bay.

Experience what it was like to ride a train in the 1800s and early 1900s by purchasing tickets for the historic Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad . Then fill up on fresh seafood from the Portland Farmer’s Market (open Wednesdays and Saturdays) or Harbor Fish Market .

You also can’t miss making the quick drive over to Cape Elizabeth to see Portland Head Light , America’s most photographed lighthouse. This is one of the most breathtaking places I have seen in all of New England.

3. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Situated along the Piscataqua River and just a couple miles from the Atlantic Ocean, Portsmouth is another historic city with a rich maritime heritage. 

Wander the cobblestone streets and browse through the numerous boutiques, art galleries, and cafes of Market Square .

Stop for brunch at the original The Friendly Toast restaurant, known for its eclectic and colorful interior and expansive menu. I love their Eggs Benedict and French Toast! 

The Flatbread Company is another local favorite where you can enjoy delicious flatbread pizza made with locally sourced ingredients.

Take a walk along the Portsmouth Harbor Trail and admire the views at Prescott Park , located right on the water.

When in Portsmouth, it’s also worth a quick drive down the coast to Rye Beach and Jenness Beach if you’re craving some fun in the sand and sun.

4. Gloucester, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH

When I first moved to Boston, locals recommended I check out Gloucester for the perfect beach day. They weren’t wrong! This lively town on Cape Ann exudes traditional New England coastal vibes and is one of the best places to spend a warm summer day.

Two of the most popular beaches in Gloucester are Good Harbor Beach and Wingaersheek Beach . I loved Good Harbor Beach for its soft sand and rocky coastline views. There’s also an island not far from the coast called Little Salt Island that you can walk to during low tide!

Another exciting option for your day in Gloucester is going on a whale-watching tour. Take a four-hour cruise to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary to see a variety of whales and dolphins.

🐳 Book Your Gloucester Whale-Watching Tour

While in town, grab a scoop or two (why not three?) from Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe . If you’re craving a meal, stop for fish and chips from Turner’s Seafood — a local favorite.

Cap off your day by touring a medieval-inspired castle, Hammond Castle , the former home of inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. You’ll be wowed by both the castle’s interior and the stunning ocean scenery from its grounds.

5. Rockport, Massachusetts

Rockport is a sister town to Gloucester, also located on Cape Ann. While there is enough to do in both Gloucester and Rockport for a day, you could plan to see both places in a single trip. Rockport is another historic seaside town that will have you feeling like you stepped into a painting.

Speaking of painting, Motif #1 is a replica of a former fishing shack in Bradley Wharf, and it has been the subject of artists’ paintings and photography for years. If you want a quintessential New England nautical scene, this is your place.

Motif #1 is nestled near Bearskin Neck , a collection of small boutiques and art galleries lined along the harbor. You could spend hours exploring the whimsical variety of items in these shops.

If you’re craving a walk in nature, check out Halibut Point State Park with its many trails that loop along the ocean.

Catch a show at Rockport’s famous Shalin Liu Performance Center , which features an array of musical and dance performances throughout the year. The building is positioned right on the ocean so you can admire the stunning scenery throughout the performance.

And of course, Rockport has its own share of beautiful beaches. Long Beach and Front Beach are two excellent places to sunbathe and swim.

6. York, Maine

Best as a day trip from Ogunquit, ME; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH; Boston, MA

The coastal towns continue! York exudes New England charm and boasts a rich history dating back to the early 17th century. Nestled along the southern coast of Maine, York offers a blend of stunning beaches, quaint neighborhoods, and historical landmarks. 

A highlight destination in York is Nubble Lighthouse , perched on a rocky island just off the shore. The lighthouse is a short drive from the popular Long Sands and Short Sands beaches.

Grab some ice cream from the parlor at the historic Goldenrod Restaurant and explore the various souvenir shops nearby. Just up the road is the popular York’s Wild Kingdom , part zoo and part amusement park. The park has been providing fun for all ages since 1951!

York is also home to what might be the world’s shortest suspension bridge, Wiggly Bridge . The bridge, which — true to its name — wiggles and jiggles as you walk across, spans York Harbor and leads to peaceful trails in the Steedman Woods.

7. Newport, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Providence, RI; Boston, MA; Worcester, MA

Newport is one of those places I could visit over and over again and never get tired of it. This historic Rhode Island town is a perfect blend of fascinating architectural sites and stunning natural beauty.

One of the most popular things to do in Newport is walk the scenic Cliff Walk , a 3.5-mile oceanside trail with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean almost the entire way. 

While in this part of town, you can also tour one of the famous Gilded Age mansions. The most famous mansion is The Breakers , one of the former summer “cottages” of the prominent Vanderbilt family.

🚋 Take a Newport Mansion Trolley Tour

Downtown Newport is filled with interesting shops and restaurants. One of my favorite restaurants is Red Parrot , which has amazing fish and chips. You could also visit the oldest operating restaurant in the U.S., White Horse Tavern .

🍽 Reserve Your Newport Walking Food and History Tour

Stop by Kilwins for ice cream and sit on a bench in Queen Anne Square to look over the beautiful Newport Harbor . Then hop on the Newport Harbor Shuttle at the harbor and take it to Fort Adams State Park . There is a walking path around the entire fort that provides amazing water views the entire way.

8. Block Island, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from Newport, RI; Mystic, CT; Providence, RI; New London, CT

Block Island is a summer paradise located off the coast of Rhode Island. You can get there by hopping on the one-hour-long Block Island Ferry from Newport or Point Judith, RI, or New London, CT.

Explore the island’s beauty by hiking, biking, or renting a moped .

For breathtaking views of the ocean, visit Southeast Light , a historic lighthouse perched on the Mohegan Bluffs . 

The great thing about being on an island is you can find amazing beaches anywhere you turn. Some of the best ones to check out include Crescent Beach , Mansion Beach , and Ballard’s Beach .

There’s also a large natural harbor on the west side of the island called Great Salt Pond , where you can enjoy boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding.

You also can’t miss exploring Block Island’s quaint downtown area, known as Old Harbor . Here you’ll find a charming blend of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. 

For a unique ecological landscape, check out Rodman’s Hollow on the southern part of the island. Part of Block Island National Wildlife Refuge , this large glacial bowl provides awe-inspiring views and is home to a variety of plants and wildlife.

9. Griswold, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from: Mystic, CT; Providence, RI; Newport, RI; Boston, MA

Griswold is a quaint area in southeastern Connecticut with scenic hills and picturesque farmlands. It’s a great day trip option if you want to experience rural New England. 

One of my favorite places in this area is Buttonwood Farm , where you can find one of the largest sunflower fields in New England. The sunflowers reach their peak in July and August. Buttonwood also has an ice cream stand with a delicious assortment of flavors — all made fresh on their eco-friendly farm!

For a peaceful walk in nature, visit Pachaug State Forest, the largest state forest in Connecticut, consisting of more than 26,000 acres with 15 trails to explore.

Bonus activity if you visit in the spring instead of summer: Drive from Griswold to nearby Preston to visit the largest “pick your own” tulip farm in New England, Wicked Tulips Flower Farm . The farm is open to flower-pickers in the spring, where you can find over 100 tulip varieties and more than 1.5 million blooms!

10. Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from Newport, RI; Providence, RI; Boston, MA

Situated on the southwestern tip of Rhode Island, Watch Hill is known for its stunning ocean views and elegant, historic architecture.

Napatree Point Conservation Area i s a thin, sandy peninsula stretching out from Watch Hill that’s a preserve for bird nesting and migration. It’s a beautiful area to walk and take in the scenic views on all sides, or sit and relax on one of the pristine beaches.

Watch Hill Lighthouse dates back to 1745 and can be found at the southernmost point of Watch Hill. The lighthouse with its surrounding ocean panoramas is an unforgettable sight to see.

Not far from there, you’ll come to Watch Hill Beach , the perfect place to relax in the sand and sun.

While in Watch Hill, take a ride on the oldest carousel in the U.S., the Watch Hill Merry-Go-Round , known for its “flying horses.”

While this post is focused on day trips, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the historic Ocean House of Watch Hill, a luxurious seaside resort and the first and only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star hotel in Rhode Island. Want to consider extending your visit? 😉

11. Narragansett, Rhode Island

Best as a day trip from Newport, RI; Providence, RI; New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Boston, MA

If you’re looking for a pretty Rhode Island beach town without the crowds of places like Newport, try Narragansett, only about a 20-minute drive away. Narragansett is home to beautiful beaches and seaside pathways where you can spend a perfect day in the salty ocean air. 

One of my favorite places to visit in Narragansett is Point Judith , a small cape with a historic lighthouse and breathtaking views of the ocean from all sides. If you’re planning a visit to Block Island, there is a ferry that departs from Point Judith, too.

A unique aspect of Narragansett is The Towers , a castle-like structure that crosses Ocean Road and is an iconic venue for public and private events throughout the year. Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior of the building makes for a great photo op. 

Near The Towers is a highly-rated seafood restaurant with ocean views called Coast Guard House Restaurant . You’ll also be right by Narragansett Town Beach , a mile-long stretch of sand that is one of the most popular places in Rhode Island for summer beachgoers. 

Salty Brine State Beach is another fantastic beach option in Narragansett that’s especially nice for young kids as it’s situated along the seawall and has no waves. Kids will enjoy watching the boats and ferries go by here. Just note that the beach is small and you’ll need to reserve a parking pass ahead of time.

12. Bristol, Maine

Best as a day trip from Portsmouth, NH; Portland, ME; Augusta, ME

With its picturesque harbor and rocky coastline, Bristol captures the essence of Maine’s seaside charm. Come here to enjoy fresh lobster from local fisheries and immerse yourself in the town’s rich maritime heritage through its museums and historic landmarks. 

A must-see place in Bristol is Pemaquid Point Lighthouse , where you can climb to the top of the light tower, tour the museum, and climb the rocks along the shore below. The scenery around the lighthouse will take your breath away.

If you’re craving a beach day, Pemaquid Beach Park is known for its gentle waves and smooth, sparkling sand. For a more local, rustic swimming experience, you can also visit The Swimming Hole at Bristol Dam.

La Verna Preserve is a 120-acre nature preserve in Bristol, where you can walk the entire rocky coastline at all tides and enjoy panoramic views of outer Muscongus Bay and its islands. 

Not far from Bristol are the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens , one of Maine’s top attractions. They have a variety of gardens and natural areas, including a butterfly house, bee exhibit, dahlia garden, children’s garden, fairy house village, and much more.

13. Nantucket, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from various parts of Cape Cod, MA

Nantucket is a timeless, quintessential New England location known for its rich history and maritime culture. This island, located 30 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, offers a picture-perfect combination of pristine beaches, a charming downtown, and iconic grey-shingled houses.

In downtown Nantucket , you’ll find plenty of boutiques and galleries to explore. If you’re a history buff, you might also enjoy the Whaling Museum , which tells the story of Nantucket over four centuries.

Not far from downtown is Brant Point Lighthouse where you can take in beautiful harbor and ocean views.

One of the most remote and breathtakingly beautiful parts of Nantucket is the Costkata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge . At the very end of the seven-mile barrier beach that protrudes from the tip of Nantucket is the historic Great Point Lighthouse . This area of the island is one of the best places to see grey seals!

💡Note that if you plan to drive to Great Point, you will need to purchase a permit from the Trustees . But you can also bike in! Taking a self-guided bike tour is one of the most popular activities in Nantucket. You can either bring your own bike onto the island or rent from one of the shops downtown.

Of course, since Nantucket is an island, there are beautiful beaches virtually anywhere you go. Some popular beaches include Madaket Beach , Surfside Beach , and Jetties Beach (the most family-friendly option, not far from town).

If you want to see both traditional Nantucket architecture and stunning ocean vistas, try the Sconset Bluff Walk . The path begins near town and winds through residential neighborhoods before opening to a scenic trail along the coast.

14. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Worcester, MA

Litchfield Hills is a picturesque region in northwestern Connecticut filled with rolling hills and charming small towns. Here you can escape the traffic and crowds of more urban parts of New England and take in the scenic beauty of the Connecticut countryside.

Visit the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston to learn about the rich railroad heritage of Litchfield Hills. See more than 100 years of carousel history at the unique Carousel Museum in Bristol.

Near the town of Kent, hike the 0.25-mile trail at Kent Falls State Park to admire the series of waterfalls. In the small town of Cornwall, snap a photo of a traditional covered bridge, Cornwall Bridge .

Another prime summer activity in New England is fruit picking! March Farm in Bethlehem lets visitors pick their own cherries, blueberries, and peaches. Mmm.

Best Day Trips in New England in the Fall

It’s no secret that New England is one of the most beautiful parts of the U.S. to see fall foliage and enjoy all the cozy vibes of autumn. Here is my list of favorite New England day trips in the fall!

15. Acadia National Park, Maine

Best as a day trip from Augusta, ME, or Bangor, ME

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful and popular U.S. national parks and one of the best day trip options in New England (though you will likely want to visit for longer!). The park is comprised of more than 47,000 acres of mountains and forests with dramatic ocean vistas that will take your breath away.

One of the best things to do at Acadia is hike or drive to the summit of the largest mountain, Cadillac Mountain (note the Cadillac Mountain Summit Road is only open to vehicles from April to October). If you plan to drive up, you will need to reserve a timed entry slot on Recreation.gov.

Don’t want to drive?  🚌 Reserve a guided bus tour of Acadia National Park from Bar Harbor

Another must-see trail is the scenic Ocean Path Trail with its jaw-dropping ocean panoramas. The trail will lead you down to Sand Beach , one of Maine’s only sandy beaches (hence the name, perhaps?). 

Be sure to stop at Jordan’s Pond House Restaurant for their well-known tea and popovers before hiking around Jordan’s Pond and seeing the iconic Bubbles — twin mountain peaks with rounded shapes.

Most of the key attractions at Acadia can be found by driving the scenic Park Loop Road . For a different vantage point, bring your bicycle and ride along the historic carriage roads that wind throughout the park.

Want more ideas of things to do at Acadia National Park? Check out this post !

16. Bar Harbor, Maine

Best as a day trip from: Bangor, ME; Augusta, ME

Bar Harbor is a picturesque coastal town on Mount Desert Island, right next to Acadia National Park. If you’re planning a trip to the park, it’s worth spending a day here as well.

For fresh Maine blueberry pancakes, start with breakfast at Jordan’s Restaurant . Then walk over to Agamont Park at the end of West Street, where you’ll have scenic views of the Bar Harbor pier and Frenchman Bay.

Try one-of-a-kind flavors at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream , including options like Bay of Figs, Lemon Poppy Berry Jam Swirl, and Salt Wildflower Honey. 

You can enjoy your ice cream on a park bench in the Village Green across the street. There’s a community piano in the park’s gazebo that’s open for anyone to play — feel free to stop and plunk out a tune!

Main Street is filled with lots of shops and boutiques to explore, including Maine’s oldest bookstore, Sherman’s Bookstore .

After you’ve finished exploring downtown, you might also enjoy a stroll through Bar Harbor’s neighborhoods with their beautiful homes and gardens.

17. Burlington, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Stowe, VT; Middlebury, VT; Killington, VT

Burlington is a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Champlain, offering a mix of urban life and outdoor adventures. Because it’s home to the University of Vermont, Burlington has a youthful energy that complements its historic charm.

A highlight attraction in Burlington is Waterfront Park , a clean and spacious public park right on Lake Champlain , where you can see the Adirondack Mountains in the distance. 

From the park, hop on the Burlington Greenway , an eight-mile scenic bike path that stretches from Queen City Park Road to the Winooski River. If you’re not up for a bike ride, you can also walk part of the trail and stop at the lookout points and beaches along the way. 

Church Street Marketplace is another popular part of town. This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes on either side, where you can easily spend a few hours exploring.

Burlington is where Ben & Jerry’s ice cream was founded, so you definitely should stop for a scoop or two from the Church Street shop.

To experience more of Lake Champlain, book tickets for a Spirit of Ethan Allen cruise. You can enjoy a day tour or reserve a dinner cruise for something a little fancier.

If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also worth going to the ECHO, Leahy Center of Lake Champlain , an interactive science and nature museum on the waterfront.

18. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

Best as a day trip from Manchester, NH; Montpelier, VT; Bethel, ME

If you google the best places to see fall foliage in New England, the Kancamagus Highway of New Hampshire will likely appear at the top of the list. This 34.5-mile scenic drive begins in the town of Lincoln to the west and ends at North Conway to the east.

Check out these stops along the highway for some of the best leaf-peeping viewpoints:

• Lincoln Woods Trail: Walk the suspension bridge over the Pemigewasset River and hike the leisurely out-and-back trail along the river with towering trees overhead.
• CL Graham Wangan Overlook: Here you’ll see one of the prettiest views of the Swift River Watershed and White Mountain peaks in the distance.
• Sabbaday Falls: A short hike will lead you to this beautiful waterfall, which has a guardrail on one side for you to stand and see the falls up close.
• Sugar Hill Overlook: This popular stop features sweeping views of the Swift River Valley and surrounding mountains.
• Rocky Gorge: Walk across the small footbridge over the gorge for scenic views of the Swift River.
• Albany Covered Bridge: Snap a photo of one of New England’s traditional covered bridges.

19. Northampton, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Worcester, MA; Hartford, CT; New Haven, CT; Boston, MA

Northampton is a vibrant and eclectic city nestled in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. The city boasts an array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and live music venues, making it a haven for artists and creatives. 

If you love coffee, you could spend a lot of time hopping from one coffee shop to the next in Northampton. There are many options to choose from — one of my favorites is The Roost . 

While exploring the shops downtown, take time to admire the street art . There are large murals on the sides of buildings everywhere. It’s one of the features that make Northampton so unique.

Fall is the perfect time for apple picking ! Park Hill Orchard and Outlook Farm are both close to Northampton and have pick-your-own areas where you can hunt for your own fruit.

About 15 minutes outside of Northampton is Look Park , filled with a variety of fun and relaxing activities for all ages, including a steamer train, water spray park, mini golf, pedal boats, playgrounds, tennis courts, walking trails, and more.

20. Stockbridge, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Worcester, MA; Hartford, CT; New Haven, CT; Albany, NY

Stockbridge is located in the heart of the Berkshire Mountains and offers a mixture of historic architecture and stunning natural landscapes. This town has been an inspiration to writers and artists for generations, including Norman Rockwell, who captured the essence of Stockbridge with his iconic paintings. 

Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum to learn more about Rockwell’s life and see some of his original artwork.

Wander along Main Street to explore the antique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Inside the old Stockbridge General Store is Main Street Cafe , which still maintains a lot of the original interior.

Stop by the historic Red Lion Inn (or book a night for the full experience), which has been a landmark of hospitality in the Berkshires for over 250 years. The hotel also owns two local boutiques, Township Four and Shop Around the Corner.

Tour a Gilded Age mansion, Naumkeag , which consists of 44 rooms and eight acres of gardens, including the famous Blue Steps. The property also features a seasonal outdoor Rose Garden Cafe, serving high tea in the gardens on select weekends.

People travel from near and far to visit Tanglewood , the famous summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and a beloved music hall for many prominent musicians. Visit the Tanglewood website for the current line-up of performances.

21. Bennington, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Albany, NY; Stockbridge, MA; Manchester, NH

Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Taconic Mountains, Bennington is a peaceful town filled with tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and a vibrant arts community.

Explore the Bennington Battle Monument , a symbol of Vermont’s role in the American Revolution, and learn more about the city’s history at the Bennington Museum .

See one of New England’s iconic white-steepled churches and Vermont’s oldest Protestant church (dating back to 1805), Old First Congregational Church .

Learn more about the history of Bennington by taking a self-guided Old Bennington Walking Tour ( download the brochure from the Bennington website ). 

Enjoy carefully curated dollhouse exhibits at the Dollhouse and Toy Museum of Vermont . The museum itself is located in a quaint 1850s Victorian home. Bennington is also home to several antique shops , where you can find hidden treasures from days gone by.

If you’re on a hunt to find the most covered bridges in New England, Bennington is home to three of them: the Burt Henry, Paper Mill, and Silk Road bridges . 

And for poetry lovers, the Robert Frost Stone House Museum is not far from Bennington, in the town of Shaftsbury.

22. Mystic, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Providence, RI; Newport, RI

Mystic is a 19th-century coastal village that enchants visitors with its scenic waterfront and traditional New England atmosphere. Located on the Mystic River, the town has a timeless charm that points back to its seafaring past. 

Step back in time by touring the Mystic Seaport Museum , one of the largest maritime museums in the U.S., and see the nation’s oldest merchant vessel, the Charles W. Morgan whaleship.

⚓️ Take a guided tour of the Mystic Seaport Museum

Mystic’s Main Street has several character-filled boutiques and restaurants to explore. I really enjoyed the seafood at The Mariner .

Not far from downtown Mystic is Olde Mistick Village , a quaint outlet mall with dozens of shops selling handcrafted gifts, jewelry, accessories, and Mystic-made souvenirs.

Another top attraction in Mystic is the Mystic Aquarium , where you can see thousands of species of marine mammals, fish, invertebrates, and reptiles.

23. Marblehead, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Portsmouth, NH; Ogunquit, ME

Marblehead is on the North Shore of Massachusetts and is renowned for its picturesque harbor, rocky shoreline, and beautifully preserved colonial architecture. It’s one of the oldest towns in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1629.

One of my favorite things to do in Marblehead is browse the cute boutiques , especially along Atlantic Avenue and Washington Street. Sweetwater Trading Company, Chic Streets, and MacRae’s Sustainable Goods are some excellent places to check out.

Shubie’s Marketplace is a great place to stop for lunch. They have a deli counter where you can order delicious, fresh sandwiches, as well as coffee, cannolis, and other treats. If the weather is still nice, they have an outdoor seating area to enjoy, too.

A hidden gem in Marblehead is Castle Rock Park , one of my favorite places in all of New England. It’s located in the middle of a neighborhood, and if you blink, you’ll almost miss the entrance. Once you walk down the short path from the street, you’ll be greeted with the most stunning ocean views. There’s a giant rock formation you can climb to have an even better lookout point.

As weird as it sounds, one of the most picturesque graveyards in New England can also be found in Marblehead, called Old Burial Hill .

Not far from there is the historic Fort Sewall , an old fortification located on Gale’s Head, on the northeastern point of the Marblehead peninsula.

Like many New England towns, it’s also fun to simply walk the residential streets of Marblehead and admire the historic homes , which are kept up well and full of character and charm.

24. Salem, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Portsmouth, NH; Portland, ME

Another North Shore gem is Salem , a town filled with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a host of historic landmarks. It’s best known as the location of the Salem Witch Trials in 1692. 

Traveling to Salem from Boston? 🚢 Book a high-speed ferry from Boston’s Long Wharf!

If you are curious about Salem’s dark past, visit the Salem Witch Museum , Salem Witch Trials Memorial , and Old Burying Point Cemetery . Because of Salem’s spooky history, the town is especially popular to visit around Halloween.

Salem is also famous for The House of Seven Gables , a historic home featured in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1861 novel of the same name. You can purchase tickets to tour the house and grounds.

Another key attraction in Salem is the Peabody Essex Museum , featuring over 1.8 million pieces of art, architecture, and cultural artifacts. What started as a collection of objects by Salem sea captains in 1799 has turned into one of the most famous museums in Massachusetts.

If you’re craving something sweet, stop by Harbor Sweets for some locally-made chocolate and other sugary goodness. Their sailboat-shaped Sweet Sloops, made of almond buttercrunch, white and dark chocolate, and pecans, are one of their most popular items. (I’ve tried them and can attest that they’re delicious!)

25. East Haddam, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from Hartford, CT; New Haven, CT; Providence, RI

Nestled along the Connecticut River, East Haddam offers a picturesque setting with rolling hills, peaceful rivers, and dense forests.

One of the top attractions in East Haddam (and all of Connecticut actually) is the quirky Gillette Castle , the former home of actor William Gillette. Pay to tour inside the fascinating residence or simply walk the grounds, which provide scenic views of the Connecticut River.

Devil’s Hopyard State Park has hundreds of acres of beautiful hiking trails. One of the most popular stops in the park is Chapman Falls, whose staircase-like shape represents what some people say to be the “devil’s footpath.” 

Just outside of Devil’s Hopyard, stop by Boho Farm , a small family-owned farm near town with a gift shop selling handmade and locally sourced items.

Walk around East Haddam’s quaint Main Street to explore its boutiques and grab some ice cream. See a show at the iconic Goodspeed Opera House in town, which has been hosting performances since the 19th century.

Best Day Trips in New England in the Winter

Winter is a beautiful time to visit New England. Escape the crowds of summer and fall while still taking in the natural beauty and historic sites of the region. And of course, if you’re into winter sports like skiing or ice skating, then this is the prime time to go!

Here are my top picks for New England day trips in the winter:

26. Stowe, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Burlington, VT; Killington, VT; North Conway, NH

Located in northern Vermont, Stowe is known as the birthplace of alpine skiing in the state. Its first lift-operated ski trail started in 1937 on Mount Mansfield (the tallest point in Vermont at 4,939 feet).

The Stowe Mountain Resort is the place to be if you want to ski in Stowe. With 116 trails and 12 lifts, it has been an internationally acclaimed ski resort since the 1940s. Not far from Stowe is another popular skiing location, Smugglers’ Notch Resort .

If you’d prefer ice skating over skiing, there is a complimentary ice rink at the Spruce Peak Village Center, part of Stowe Mountain Resort. You can bring your own skates or rent them on-site.

Downtown Stowe is filled with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants to explore — a great way to escape the winter cold. Be sure to snap a photo of the iconic white-steepled Stowe Community Church .

Another popular activity is the Stowe Recreation Path , which stretches from Stowe Village to Top Notch Resort on Mountain Road. In the winter, this 5.3-mile trail is open to walkers, runners, bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers. There’s also a free shuttle that provides transportation along Mountain Road if you want to make it a one-way trip!

27. North Conway, New Hampshire

Best as a day trip from Manchester, NH; Portland, ME; Augusta, ME

North Conway is a scenic town in the heart of the White Mountains, in Mt. Washington Valley, and the perfect place to spend a snowy winter day.

In the town of North Conway itself, spend time browsing more than 100 shops, galleries, and factory outlets in North Conway Village .

If you’re interested in skiing, North Conway is within easy driving distance from three popular resorts: Cranmore Mountain Resort (5 minutes), Attitash Mountain Resort (15 minutes), and King Pine Ski Area (25 minutes).

While people flock to the Kancamagus Highway in the fall as one of the prime areas to see colorful foliage, this scenic road is equally beautiful in the winter with the snow-covered mountain peaks and fir trees. Just check the weather before you go as the highway sometimes closes when it snows.

North Conway isn’t far from Mount Washington , the tallest peak in the northeastern United States, towering at 6,288 feet.

The Mount Washington Auto Road is closed to private vehicles in the winter, but you can book a ride on a SnowCoach that takes you up two-thirds of the way, where you’ll have amazing views of the Presidential Range.

Hop on a traditional steam locomotive at the Conway Scenic Railroad . While train times are more limited in the winter, the company still offers picturesque trips through the snowy White Mountains. Check the website for available tours and to book tickets in advance.

If you don’t mind driving an hour to the other end of the Kancamagus Highway, experience the Ice Castles of New Hampshire in North Woodstock. This icy paradise includes ice slides, caves, and crawl tunnels, as well as an illuminated walking path, a snow tubing run, a Winter Fairy Forest, and more.

28. Killington, Vermont

Best as a day trip from Burlington, VT; Stowe, VT; Manchester, NH

On the Green Mountains side of New England lies the town of Killington, one of the most beloved skiing areas in the eastern United States.

Killington Resort is referred to as “The Beast,” with 1,509 skiable acres, 155 trails, and 21 lifts. Its tallest trail has an impressive 3,050-foot vertical drop.

Pico Mountain Ski Resort and Okemo Mountain Resorts are two other popular resorts not far from Killington.

If you fancy snowshoeing over skiing, try one of the trails in Gifford Woods State Park . This park is a common pass-through area for hikers on the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine.

For an easy winter hike, the two-mile out-and-back Deer Leap Overlook Trail leads to a rock outcrop with beautiful views of the Coolidge Mountain Range and Sherburne Pass.

After a long day in the snow, warm up with a hearty dinner in downtown Killington . A couple of highly-rated restaurants include Casey’s Caboose and The Garlic.

29. Washington, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Hartford, CT; Albany, NY

Washington is a picturesque town in the Litchfield Hills of western Connecticut. Known for its charming New England ambiance, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

See the beautiful, white-steepled First Congregational Church before strolling through Washington’s quiet neighborhoods with their historic and well-landscaped homes.

Stop for lunch at Po Cafe , located in the old post office building. They have a delicious selection of food and drinks with both indoor seating and heated outdoor seating. (Note they are closed on Sunday and Monday and are only open until 2 p.m. on the other days.)

For a luxurious winter day trip experience, book a special spa treatment at the renowned Mayflower Inn & Spa . (If you’re a Gilmore Girls fan, this place inspired the creation of the Independence Inn on the show.)

Washington is also home to three scenic nature preserves, the Hidden Valley, Macricostas, and Steep Rock preserves . Each of these preserves allows cross-country skiers and snowshoers on their hiking trails during the winter months. Enjoy snow-covered landscapes as you glide along the various loop trails.

30. Concord, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Hartford, CT; Manchester, NH

Concord is a picturesque town just a short drive from Boston, with an interesting blend of colonial architecture, historic sites, and literary landscapes. 

Concord looks like a postcard in the winter, especially during the Christmas season when its quaint Main Street is beautifully decorated with wreaths and lights.

One of my favorite shops in downtown Concord is Nesting , an eclectic boutique with unique gifts and home goods. You can find lots of Christmas ornaments and other winter decor there this time of year.

Another highlight attraction near Concord that’s open year-round is Minute Man National Historic Park , which preserves the sites involved in the first armed conflict of the American Revolution on April 19, 1775. A key place to visit in the park is Old North Bridge , where the famous “shot heard round the world” was fired.

Walden Pond State Reservation is the place that inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s novel Walden . Take a peaceful winter hike around the pond and you’ll come across the former site of his log cabin where he wrote the book.

For another historic, literary experience, take a tour of the Louisa May Alcott Orchard House , the home where the famous author wrote and set her novel Little Women in 1868.

31. Bethel, Maine

Best as a day trip from Portland, ME; Augusta, ME; North Conway, NH

Bethel is a popular ski town in Maine and is referred to as “Maine’s most beautiful mountain village.”

Sunday River Resort is one of Maine’s largest ski resorts with 19 lifts and 139 different trails and glades. It’s also home to the fastest eight-person chairlift in North America. 

Not far from Sunday River Resort is the Sunday River Covered Bridge , built in 1872 and part of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

Mt. Abram Ski Area is a smaller ski resort near Bethel that is a popular choice for families and first-time skiers, or those looking for a quieter, more local skiing experience.

Another “gem” in Bethel is the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum , where you can see meteorites from Mars, the moon, and the Asteroid Belt. There’s also a Rock Garden showcasing 26 geological specimens from around the state.

If you’re up for a good winter hike, try the Old Speck Trail in Grafton Notch State Park , a 7.6-mile round-trip trail that ascends Maine’s third-highest mountain at 4,180 feet. There are also places in the park to cross-country ski or snowshoe.

Best Day Trips in New England in the Spring

New England gets a lot of press in the fall with its beautiful foliage colors, but I absolutely love it here in the spring. New England often has very harsh winters, so there’s nothing quite like seeing those first blooms after the snow has melted away. The weather starts to warm up, but you don’t have to worry about the crowds and traffic of summer.

Here are my top recommendations for New England day trips in the spring:

32. Boston, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Worcester, MA; Providence, RI; Hartford, CT; Manchester, NH; Ogunquit, ME

Boston makes for a great day trip in New England at any time of the year, but I especially love the city in the spring. After a long, harsh winter, it’s so pretty to see all the trees come into bloom, and the streets come alive with people once again.

To understand Boston’s important role in the American Revolution, take a guided or self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail , a 2.5-mile path that leads you to 16 different historic sites throughout the city. You can also experience a reenactment of the Boston Tea Party at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum .

🇺🇸 Book a guided Freedom Trail tour

Learn more about Boston’s history on a one-of-a-kind Duck Boat Tour, an amphibious vehicle that takes you past sights on both land and water.

🦆 Book your Duck Boat Tour (They sell out fast!)

Taste authentic Italian food in North End , also known as Boston’s Little Italy. Mike’s Pastry and Modern Pastry are rivals for the best cannoli. (Most locals seem to point to Modern Pastry, though I think both of them are good — but hey, I’m no cannoli connoisseur.)

Experience Boston’s Chinatown , a center of Asian-American life in New England. There are many amazing Asian restaurants to choose from, and I love to go here for bubble tea!

Walk over to Copley Square and tour the Boston Public Library , especially the historic section of the library that includes the stunning Bates Hall.

Spend some time browsing the shops along Newbury Street with its iconic brownstone buildings before heading to the Charles River Esplanade for scenic water and city views.

A visit to Boston wouldn’t be complete without walking through the Public Garden and Boston Common , two of America’s oldest and best public parks. 

End your day with a walk down Charles Street in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood (one of my favorite places in Boston!). If you have time, sneak up to Acorn Street to see one of the last original cobblestone streets in Boston. It’s one of the most photographed streets in America.

Related read: 24-Hour Boston Itinerary: Best Things to Do in 2023

33. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Provincetown, MA; Hyannis, MA; Providence, RI; Boston, MA

Martha’s Vineyard is a prime island getaway in New England, just off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The high season for the island is in the summer, so I recommend visiting in May if you want to beat the crowds. (But if you want to see the stunning hydrangeas, those typically don’t start blooming until July.)

The only way to get to Martha’s Vineyard is by ferry or plane. There are several places to catch the ferry, including the Falmouth and Hyannis harbors on Cape Cod. There are also tour options from Boston!

🚢 Book a Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip from Boston

Once you get to the island, spend some time exploring the various shops and boutiques downtown, including the beloved Vineyard Vines store that was founded on the island.

Visit the Oak Bluffs area of the island to see the iconic gingerbread cottages . In this neighborhood, you will also find the Flying Horses Carousel , the oldest operating platform carousel in America. The carousel was first located in New York City but was moved to Martha’s Vineyard in the 1880s.

For stunning cliff and ocean views, stop by the Aquinnah Cliffs Overlook on the western side of the island. (This is an awesome place to watch the sunset, too!)

One of the best beaches on Martha’s Vineyard is South Beach , located on the southeast side of the island. But you really can’t go wrong — you’ll find stunning beaches all over Martha’s Vineyard.

34. Provincetown, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Hyannis, MA; Plymouth, MA

On the tip of Cape Cod is the charming town of Provincetown. It’s the oldest continuous art colony in the United States, with numerous galleries, studios, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists. And with Provincetown stretching 60 miles into the ocean, it’s also filled with natural beauty and seaside fun.

Note that you can drive to Provincetown if you want to see the entire Cape, or take a ferry directly there from Boston’s Long Wharf.

Commercial Street is the center of activity in Provincetown, where you’ll find numerous shops and restaurants to explore.

Provincetown is also a prime location to catch a whale-watching tour . Boats depart from the Provincetown Harbor and last for 3-4 hours, giving you ample opportunity to see a variety of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Check out the 252-foot-tall Pilgrim Monument , which is the actual place where the pilgrims first landed in the New World before sailing on to Plymouth.

The monument is part of the Provincetown Museum , where you can learn more about the Mayflower pilgrims’ arrival and the rich maritime and theater history of Provincetown.

Two of the best beaches in Provincetown include Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach . You may not want to swim yet in the spring, but it’s still worth walking along the shore or relaxing on the sand. 

The Race Point Lighthouse is also worth seeing when you’re in Provincetown, but note that contrary to the name, the lighthouse is about a two-mile hike (or 11-minute drive) from Race Point Beach.

Province Lands Bike Trail , one of three bike trails at Cape Cod National Seashore, is a 5.45-mile trail winding through pine forests, sandy dunes, and cranberry bogs. The trail includes easy exit points to Race Point Beach and Herring Cove Beach.

35. New Haven, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from Hartford, CT; Mystic, CT; Providence, RI; New York, NY

New Haven is on the southwestern side of Connecticut, about an hour and a half from New York City. It’s a dynamic and diverse city with a vibrant academic atmosphere, rich history, and plenty of natural beauty to explore.

New Haven is most famous as the home of Yale University , one of America’s oldest and most prestigious colleges, founded in 1701. Book a walking tour to learn more about the university’s history and take in the stunning architecture.

Not far from Yale’s campus is the historic New Haven Green that has been around since 1638. Walk through this nine-acre green space, enjoy the canopy of elm trees above you, and stop to see three of New Haven’s historic churches: Trinity Church, United Church, and Center Church.

From the Green, walk a short distance to Louis’ Lunch , one of the tiniest restaurants you’ll ever see. This little hamburger joint has been around since 1900, and they still serve their burgers on toast.

If you’re craving time in nature, visit Lighthouse Point Park for scenic views of New Haven and Long Island Sound. 

Another popular option is East Rock State Park , a unique trap rock formation in the middle of the city. Hike to the top of the “rock” for a birds-eye view of New Haven and Long Island Sound beyond.

In the neighboring town of Hamden, hike the trail around the peaceful Lake Wintergreen . 

Bonus: About 20 minutes outside of New Haven, in Milford, is Silver Sands State Park , one of my favorite places in Connecticut. This unique seaside park includes a sandy beach, boardwalk, and — the most unique feature — a “tombolo” (sandbar) that you can walk across to Charles Island only during low tide. (Be sure to come back before the tide rises or you’ll be stuck on the island with the nesting birds!)

36. Beverly, Massachusetts

Best as a day trip from Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Portsmouth, NH; Ogunquit, ME

Beverly is a hidden gem on the Massachusetts North Shore. Most people mention towns like Gloucester and Rockport when they talk about escaping the city for a day by the shore, but there are several attractions that make Beverly worth a visit, too.

Start your day in Beverly with a delicious cup of coffee and fresh scone from the tiniest little cafe you may ever see: Beantrust Coffeebar. There isn’t much space inside to sit and relax, but it’s worth grabbing your items to-go and strolling through the pretty neighborhoods nearby.

Lynch Park is known as the Crown Jewel of Beverly with its beautiful rose garden, beaches, amphitheater, playground, and splash pad. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon near the water. (Note that parking is $15 on weekdays and $25 on weekends during high season from the end of May through Labor Day.)

Dane Street Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Beverly, and one of the few beaches on the North Shore where you can find free street parking. You may not want to swim in the water in the spring, but it’s still a beautiful beach for a walk or to sit and watch the waves roll in.

See a show at the North Shore Music Theatre , the largest operating theatre in New England, attracting more than 250,000 people each year. It’s also one of the few remaining “theatre-in-the-round” stages left in the U.S.

Enjoy the lovely gardens and walking trails at Long Hill , the former summer home of the Sedgwick family from 1916 to 1979.

37. Hartford, Connecticut

Best as a day trip from New Haven, CT; Boston, MA; Worcester, MA; Providence, RI

Located in central Connecticut, the state’s capital city of Hartford offers an interesting mix of historic sights, public parks, and high-quality museums to explore.

The Connecticut State Capitol is one of the most beautiful capitol buildings I’ve ever seen, with its gold dome and Victorian Gothic architecture. Surrounding the capitol is the scenic Bushnell Park , featuring a historic carousel and several monuments. 

Another beautiful park to check out is the Elizabeth Park Conservancy . Its focal point is the Helen S. Kaman Rose Garden with its many arches of roses that come into full bloom by mid-June.

Tour the 25-room mansion where the iconic author Samuel Langhorne Clemens (Mark Twain) and his family lived from 1874 to 1891. The Mark Twain House & Museum has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

If you’re interested in art history, visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art , which is home to nearly 50,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years.

The Connecticut Science Center and The Children’s Museum are two other fun places to visit in Hartford if you have kids. Both museums are full of interactive exhibits where kids can try their hand at STEM activities and see scientific wonders.

Best New England Day Trips for Families

New England is a wonderful place to visit with the whole family! So many locations have attractions geared toward kids, and there are plenty of activities that can entertain all ages.

These are some of my top recommendations for family day trips in New England:

• Hartford, Connecticut: Kid-focused museums and parks
• Mystic, Connecticut: Fun maritime activities, including a historic ship and large aquarium
• Acadia National Park, Maine: Endless hiking trails and areas to explore
• Ogunquit, Maine: Shoreside fun, with beaches, trails, kayaking, and more
• York, Maine: Home to one of New England’s largest zoos and awesome beaches
• Boston, Massachusetts: Playgrounds, parks, and museums galore!
• Gloucester, Massachusetts: Family-friendly beaches and a hidden castle
• North Conway, New Hampshire: Snowy paradise with ice castles, ski resorts, and more
• Burlington, Vermont: Lakeside parks, hiking trails, and a one-of-a-kind science museum

Related read: 13 Awesome Family Day Trips in Massachusetts by Season

Best New England Day Trips for Couples

If you’re planning a romantic trip for two, here are my favorite options:

• Litchfield Hills, Connecticut: Small towns and scenic landscapes to explore
• Bar Harbor, Maine: Relaxing restaurant and cafe scene at the doorstep of Acadia National Park
• Portland, Maine: Foodie paradise along with plenty of outdoor activities
• Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts: Quaint island getaway with lots of history and charm
• Nantucket, Massachusetts: Similar to Martha’s Vineyard, but even more remote
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire: Walkable downtown and close proximity to beaches
• Stowe, Vermont: Cozy mountain escape

Best Places to Stay in New England

If you’re taking multiple day trips in New England and need a “base camp” where you can crash for the night, here are some excellent options throughout the region:

The Goodwin , Hartford, Connecticut

Nearby day trips recommended in this post:

• Hartford, CT
• New Haven, CT
• Washington, CT
• East Haddam, CT
• Griswold, CT
• Stockbridge, MA
• Northampton, MA

🛌 Check room availability and book!

Ogunquit River Inn & Suites , Ogunquit, Maine

• Ogunquit, ME
• Portland, ME
• Portsmouth, NH

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel , Bar Harbor, Maine

• Acadia National Park, ME
• Bar Harbor, ME

Omni Parker House , Boston, Massachusetts

• Marblehead, MA
• Martha’s Vineyard, MA
• Provincetown, MA
• Concord, MA

Wentworth by the Sea , Newcastle, New Hampshire

• Gloucester, MA
• Rockport, MA
• Beverly, MA

Newport Marriott Hotel & Spa , Newport, Rhode Island

• Newport, RI
• Narragansett, RI
• Watch Hill, RI

Trapp Family Lodge , Stowe, Vermont

• Burlington, VT
• Killington, VT

Here are answers to other common questions about New England!

What month is best in New England?

New England is lovely any time of year, so it all depends on what activities you want to do! I especially like the months of June through September here.

I love New England summers when all the coastal towns come alive and you can enjoy many days at the beach. The water is warmest in August and September but don’t expect the water to ever be “warm” since it is the North Atlantic Ocean. 🙂

Spring and fall have milder but still pleasant temperatures. These are my favorite seasons to explore New England because you don’t have the traffic of the summer crowds or the unpredictable weather of the winter. In the fall, you have the stunning foliage and in the spring, the beautiful blossoming trees.

In the winter, it’s not uncommon for snow storms to make travel difficult and cause certain places to shut down. But New England is a prime skiing and snowshoeing destination, so if you come prepared, December through March are great months to visit.

How many days do you need in New England?

If you want to get a taste of all six New England states, I recommend spending at least one week here. I provide a sample seven-day New England itinerary in this post .

If you have time to spare, two weeks would allow you to explore some of the more remote parts of New England, like Acadia National Park or Martha’s Vineyard.

That being said, if all you have is one or two days in New England, you can still cover a lot of ground. Any of the day trips in this post are great options to choose from, and below are some other posts I have written on day or weekend trips in New England:

• Weekend in Burlington, VT: The Perfect 2 or 3-Day Itinerary
• A Weekend in Newport, Rhode Island: 7 Best Things to Do
• 13 Awesome Family Day Trips in Massachusetts by Season
• Day Trip to Salem from Boston: All You Need to Know

How should you spend five days in New England?

There are many excellent itineraries for five days in New England. To get a perfect blend of coastal views, hilly rural areas, and mountain landscapes, here is one sample itinerary I would recommend:

• Day 1: Litchfield Hills, Connecticut (if traveling by plane, fly into Hartford)
• Day 2: Newport, Rhode Island
• Day 3: Boston, Massachusetts
• Day 4: Portland, Maine
• Day 5: North Conway, New Hampshire (fly out of Portland)

But feel free to mix and match any of the day trips in this post for other itinerary options!

What are the best day trips in each New England state?

These are my top day trip options in each New England state:

• Connecticut: Mystic, Litchfield Hills, Griswold
• Maine: Acadia National Park, Portland, Ogunquit
• Massachusetts: Boston, Marblehead, Gloucester
• New Hampshire: Portsmouth, Kancamagus Highway, North Conway
• Rhode Island: Newport, Narragansett, Watch Hill
• Vermont: Burlington, Stowe, Bennington

Conclusion: Best Day Trips in New England

There you have it: my list of the 37 best day trips in New England! Whether you’re interested in some “vitamin sea,” a long hike in the mountains, a food tour, or visiting museums and historic sites, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

I hope this list has given you lots of inspiration as you plan your New England day trip. Have an amazing time, wherever you go!

PLANNING A TRIP? These are the resources I recommend: ✈️ Flights:   Skyscanner 🛌 Hotels:  Booking.com ​ 🚗 Rental cars:   DiscoverCars 🎟 Tours: Viator  or  GetYourGuide

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46 Awesome Spring New England Travel Ideas for 2020

Many of us are anticipating the last legs of winter to go away and see spring arrive with its warmer weather, blossoming flowers, greener grass, gardening projects, outdoor events and festivals, and, quite simply, the chance to walk outside and enjoy the refreshing, friendlier air. With that said, here are 46 fun, affordable spring New England travel ideas…

1. View eagles in Maine . No, we’re not talking about Don Henley and Joe Walsh. Spring is a great time to visit the Maine coastline, rivers and lakes, as Maine has 75 percent of the bald eagle population of the total estimated in New England and New York!

2.Visit the Heritage Museums and Gardens in Sandwich (Cape Cod), Mass., where the Dexter Rhododendrons come to life — simply beautiful. Heritage Museums web site: http://heritagemuseumsandgardens.org/

3. Later in the spring, make sure to see The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Mass., that features 400 feet of more than 500 varieties of flowers, shrubs and vines spanning a long, walkable former trolley bridge. Spectacular!

4. Celebrate Patriots Day where it all began — in Lexington and Concord, Mass. 2019 marks the 244st anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and that means an April 13-15 weekend of parades, reenactments and commemorative ceremonies. Visit the National Park Service web site for more info at http://www.nps.gov/mima/patriots-day.htm .

5. Enjoy the Vermont maple sugaring season with The Vermont Maple Festival in St. Albans from April 26-28. What a sweet time of the year to visit Vermont! Details:  https://www.vermontmaplefestival.com/ .

6. Get to know one of Major League Baseball’s greatest baseball parks, Fenway Park in Boston, with a Fenway Park Tour . Home of the Boston Red Sox, the Fenway Park Tours offer a wonderfully educational and entertaining experience with facts, figures, anecdotes and an up-close view of a most unusual, but special park through some terrific tour guides.

7. Take a refreshing spring walk with commanding views of the Atlantic Ocean at the Cliff Walk in Newport, R.I. This is one of New England’s most scenic walks, and it is free!

8. Marvel at the May daffodils in the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut. The best place in Connecticut to watch the sea of yellow unfold is at the Laurel Ridge Foundation located on Wigwam Rd. in the Northfield section of Litchfield. For information about the Foundation — including the best time  for daffodil viewings — visit www.litchfielddaffodils.com .  There are no entrance or parking fees, just a sea of daffodils to feast your eyes on!

9. Expanding on the spring flower power scene in Connecticut, see some 30,000 dogwoods bloom during the annual Dogwood Festival weekend, May 10-12 at Greenfield Hill Congregational Church in Fairfield. For more info, check out http://www.greenfieldhillchurch.com/dogwood2019/

10. Visit one of New England’s most scenic state parks: Colt State Park in Bristol, R.I. Here, you can enjoy sweeping green landscapes and the picture-perfect panoramic Narragansett Bay views majestically created by Mother Nature that define this one-of-a-kind 464-acre state park. Colt State Park offers four miles of bike paths along the bay, more than 400 picnic tables at six groves, 10 playing fields, abundant groomed fruit trees and other colorful plant life, and an open-air chapel-by-the-sea — perfect for an ideal coastal New England wedding , according to the Rhode Island Parks Web Site, A town beach and playground borders Colt State Park.

11. Stay ahead of the summer crowds by taking a spring trip to the spectacular Acadia National Park Loop Road , where the ocean meets the mountains for some of the greatest scenery in New England. The Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to visit as temperatures usually warm up and spring is in full bloom.

12. Set forth on a warm spring day for a great picnic destination in New England . What a nice reward after a cold winter!

13. Baseball has become an expensive spectator sport, but not at the minor league level where general admission prices are still quite low. Our favorite spot to take in a minor league baseball game is McCoy Stadium, home of the Pawtucket Red Sox (Triple A Boston Red Sox affiliate). General admission tickets are baseball dirt cheap! The 2019 home opener kicks off on Monday, April 11! PawSox web site: http://www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t533

14. Get a taste of local Vermont agriculture at the Valley Food & Farm’s annual Flavors of the Valley Expo on April 7, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at Hartford High School in Hartford, Vt. This wonderful sampling event features more than 50 farm and food-related vendors that sell fresh produce, artisan bread, award-winning cheeses, tasty jams, local pulled pork, ice cream, hand-crafted chocolates, and many other delicious local goods. Web site: http://vitalcommunities.org/valleyfoodfarm/flavors/

15. The Walpole Town Forest in Walpole, Mass., is beautifully cared for and so scenic alongside the Neponset River — like you are somewhere in rural New Hampshire. This is amazing, given urban Boston is only 18 miles away. What a great place for a walk! Details:  http://visitingnewengland.com/blog-cheap-travel/?p=67

16. Enjoy the hidden gems of New England like the Whitman Town Park at Maple St. and Park, Whitman, and Hayden Aves. in downtown Whitman, Mass.(see photo of top of this article). Paved walkways, colorful flower beds, a pond, fountain, an old time bandstand, woodlands, a swimming pool, playground and baseball field make this neighborhood park one of the nicest in eastern Massachusetts. Interestingly, the Whitman Town park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features beautiful landscaping and design, courtesy of the famous Olmsted brothers from around 1900.

17. Walk one of New England’s most famous ocean side paths — Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine . This mostly level 1.5 mile path affords beautiful views of the rocky Maine coast and Atlantic Ocean. A nice spring day provides a fabulous opportunity to enjoy this landmark seaside destination, as the tourist season and its crowds usually don’t saturate the area until Memorial Day Weekend.

18. Travel the small towns and back roads of Vermont . Follow the link to see what this beautiful state looks like in the spring. Just looking at the pictures makes me want to be there right now!

19. No spring New England vacation would be complete without a trip to the Asparagus and Flower Heritage Festival on Sun., May 19 at the beautiful Town Common in West Brookfield, Mass. This fun community event fills features plants for sale, garden items, pony rides, and raffles, and the Quaboag Historical Society and other local organizations and businesses offer specialty items. As expected, many asparagus-inspired dishes serve as a main attraction but you’ll also find favorites like burgers, hot dogs and baked goods. For more information, log onto https://www.facebook.com/West-Brookfield-Asparagus-and-Flower-Heritage-Festival-543645955731784/ .

20. Head to the beach for the 2019 Misquamicut State Beach Spring Fest, May 10-12, at Misquamicut State Beach in Westerly, R.I., with music, rides, fireworks and food. For more info, check out http://misquamicutfestival.org/ .

21. See the Boston Marathon in Boston, Mass., on April 15. This famous 26-mile running event starts in Hopkinton, Mass., and ends in Boston. The Boston Marathon is the world’s oldest annual marathon! Log onto the Boston Athletic Association Web Site’s Spectator Guide at http://www.baa.org/races/boston-marathon/event-information.aspx for complete details — including starting times and other schedule of events.

22. Discover Rhode Island bike ways for some refreshing spring exercise. Many paths even have coastal views!

23. While on the subject of bike trails, Cape Cod is no slouch, either. Many Cape Cod bike trails have amazing coastal views, too.

24. For a nice treat, connect with a local ice cream stand in New England. While some are open year-round, many reopen for the season in March and April. Always call ahead to find out business hours. Ahhh, spring and ice cream go hand-in-hand! Details on some of the best ice cream stands

25. Go out for some seafood that won’t sink your bank account while, at the same time, also offering nice water views. Great example: Markey’s Lobster Pool in Seabrook, N.H. , has been around, seemingly forever, and serves up some terrific lobster and fried seafood dishes. This is a no-frills, family-friendly place where you can pick out your own lobster from the tank!

26. The 22nd Annual Seacoast Home & Garden Show takes place on April 6-7, at the Whittemore Center Arena at 128 Main St. in Durham, N.H., and will feature more than 200 home related exhibitors, garden and artisan marketplaces, home and garden seminars and a chef’s cooking series. Web site: https://seacoast.newenglandexpos.com/ .

27. Visit one of New England’s most beloved destinations, The Goldenrod in York Beach, Maine. Dating back to 1896, The Goldenrod sells “Goldenrod Kisses” salt water taffy candies which are made on the premises. Often, you can see crowds looking through the window to see the taffy-making process. The Goldenrod is more than just salt water taffy, though — it’s a restaurant, soda fountain, candy counter and gift shop. The Goldenrod will reopen for the season sometime in May. Stay tuned for details!

28. Nubble Lighthouse at Cape Neddick, Maine , looks good anytime of the year, but there’s something so special about a spring visit when winter is finally behind us. This is one of the destinations we often think about when dreaming about warmer days and fun spring and summer travel destinations.

29. Take a nice Sunday spring country ride into New Hampshire and stop at a pancake house — like Parker’s in Mason, Polly’s in Sugar Hill and the Intervale in Henniker — nothing like a delicious stack and real maple syrup!

30. Billings Farm in Woodstock, Vt. — know as the “Gateway to Vermont’s Rural Heritage” — is a great spring destination as they always have fantastic seasonal events. Spring is no exception. We recommend checking out its calendar at https://billingsfarm.org/events/ .

31. College Hill in Providence, R.I., is a wonderful place to stroll in the spring with its Brown University Ivy League vibe and spectacular homes on leafy side streets. See what College Hill looks like in the spring here .

32. Travel to the middle of nowhere to visit a quirky, fabulous bookstore: the Montague Bookmill in Montague, Mass. (not too far from UMass Amherst in Amherst). Browse the extensive, diverse selection of books and dine outside on the deck (the Lady Killegrew Cafe and Pub shares the address) at this rustic 1842 gristmill complex setting.

33. Get outside for a spring walk while exploring the remarkable historic preservation that makes New England so special.

34. While on the historic New England subject, spring is a nice time to visit Historic Deerfield, Mass. , for a guided or self-guided tour of, arguably, New England’s most historic village.

35. What would spring be like without a visit to the Swan Boats of Boston ? The timeless joy of riding on a boat with plastic but rather charming-looking large swans while viewing the lush, green 24-acre Public Garden makes for a classic Boston family tourist destination. The boat rides date back 130 years, have a one-of-a-kind look, and are still operated by pedal power! Opening day is April 12!

36. Take the kids to the Greenway Carousel at The Rose F. Kennedy Greenway in Boston. The 36-seat Greenway Carousel features 14 different characters native to Massachusetts, including a whale, cod, fox, grasshopper, harbor seal and butterflies. Lending an additional special quality to the Carousel is that Boston school children inspired these characters through their own drawings. Stayed tuned for the 2019 spring reopening date!

37. While spring traveling, diners in New England make a great budget-friendly dining out option. New England has many outstanding diners — some classic, others more modern, but all quite satisfying!

38. A spring walk at Short Sands Beach at York Beach , always feels amazing. Surrounded by the Rocky Maine coast, this quarter-mile ocean beach stretch feels cozy and intimate, yet family-friendly.

39. Logee’s in Danielson, Conn. , is a great place to start your spring gardening. This isn’t your basic garden variety gardening and flower store: they feature an impressive variety of fruiting, rare, exotic and tropical edible and nonedible plants — not common for sale to the northeast region — including bananas, lemons the size of grapefruits, Japanese persimmons, unusual begonias and rare hibiscus variations.

40. Visit the quieter small Rhode Island towns for spring time reflection and solitude.

41. Kennebunkport, Maine offers many good reasons to visit in the spring. Find out why right here .

42. Drive a few miles north of Boston to Kelly’s Roast Beef in Revere Beach for a cheap over- sized lobster roll, or well, a tasty roast beef sandwich. Adding ambiance to the outdoor dining experience is the beach and ocean views right across the street.

43. Stroll the colorful North End Italian neighborhood of Boston, and make sure to eat along the way at these amazing restaurants, cafes and bakeries .

44. Enjoy the 1,700+ acres of walking opportunities at Borderland State Park in Easton, Mass., with its scenic open lands, forest and bodies of water.

45. Visit Spohr Gardens in Falmouth, Mass. is a six-acre woodland garden with springtime flowers by a pond with winding paths and nautical artifacts. SPRING AT SPOHR, on May 18 from 10 a.m-4 p.m., features activities for children,a wishing tree, guided tours and a plant sale. Find more info at http://www.spohrgardens.org/ .

Do you have a favorite budget-friendly New England spring travel destination? Please tell us about it in the comment box below. Happy spring travels!

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8 Inexpensive Weekend Getaways in New England | To Experience This Spring

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• New England
• United States

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

There’s arguably no region in the U.S. more enthusiastic to welcome spring’s arrival than New England. As the seasonal thaw takes hold, hotels and resorts that command top dollar in the summer season entice travelers by offering more bang for your buck with special offers, packages, deals, and added value.

Even better, as our parkas get tucked away to make room for lighter layers, destinations fête the return of warmer temperatures with fairs and festivals to trumpet spring’s arrival, so you can enjoy the perks of pre-peak-season travel. 

New England weekend getaways in spring offer a tapestry of delights. The region bursts with vibrant flowers and blossoming trees, creating scenic landscapes for hiking and picnics. Coastal towns awaken from winter slumber, inviting leisurely strolls along quaint streets perfect for a weekend escape. Maple sugaring festivals add sweet flavors to the air, and inns offer cozy retreats with New England charm.

Here are 8 inexpensive spring destinations that have put winter in the rear-view mirror and are welcoming travelers with deals and steals.

Some of these places I’ve visited on a press trip, others I’ve discovered in my many New England travels. All opinions are my own.

8 Inexpensive Weekend Getaways in New England This Spring

1. bretton woods, new hampshire.

History buffs take note: Surrounded by the White Mountain National Forest, the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods has hosted four former presidents including Calvin Coolidge, Warren G. Harding, Woodrow Wilson, and George H.W. Bush. It was also the site of the signing of all major documents at the Bretton Woods International Monetary Conference in 1944, designating the popular New England retreat an official National Historic Landmark. In addition to commanders-in-chief, the sprawling bucolic property has been a favorite among poets, celebrities, and generations of families. But, recent renovations and expansions like the new Presidential Wing show the resort has not been left in the past but instead has a bright future.

As the ski season comes to a close, the New Hampshire resort’s surrounding hills are peppered with springtime blooms best enjoyed on a canopy tour. The zip lining experience high above the hemlock trees offers sweeping views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Range. The longest of the nine zips is over 1,000 feet long and about 165 feet high off the forest floor, with two sky bridges and three rappels. The tour is designed for participants of average mobility, strength, and reasonably good health, but there are a number of short hikes along an unpaved path, so folks should be comfortable walking on uneven ground and down a moderate incline. Now is the best time to experience it all with the resort’s Take a Break offer, allowing guests to save 20 percent off the best available rate now through September 5, 2023, when booked before April 11, 2023. 

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Bretton Woods

2. Ogunquit

Idyllically nested on Maine’s southern coast, Ogunquit boasts all the spoils of the quintessential New England summer beach town: miles of windswept sandy beaches, picture perfect craggy cliffs, and buttery lobster rolls around nearly every corner. It also has all the crowds that come with it that time of year. Springtime, however, is the best time to bask in Ogunquit’s grandeur without the masses. The captivating Marginal Way, a popular 2.5-mile paved path that traces the coastline, draws heaps of visitors in the summer, but this time of year, visitors can go at their own pace, pausing for birding or soaking in the view on one of the many oceanfront benches. 

Just minutes from the Marginal Way is the historic Colonial Inn , which served as an impressive private residence during the mid-19th century and today welcomes travelers looking to experience the Maine coast . The property is considered the last of Ogunquit’s once-numerous stately Victorian-era hotels still in operation as a hotel. To celebrate the season, The Colonial Inn’s Spring Fling package features 10 percent off a two-night stay with chilled sparkling wine and a charcuterie board for guests upon their arrival.

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3. Martha’s Vineyard

Massachusetts.

An island getaway seems like the perfect way to shake off winter’s chill, and Martha’s Vineyard delivers. Shoulder season has its own kind of magic, no more so than in the spring, when the excitement of summer’s arrival is palpable but you can still live like a local. It’s also when you’re most likely to bump into the island’s regular celebrity guests and homeowners. Think Carly Simon, James Taylor, Oprah Winfrey, and Diane Sawyer.

Be there for the unofficial first sign of spring (if you’re not counting the crocuses and forsythia blooming across the 87-square-mile island): the annual opening of the Flying Horses Carousel in Oak Bluffs. Built in 1876 and welcoming not just the young but also the young-at-heart ever since, the colorful carousel is the oldest operating platform carousel in the country. In the summer, long lines swell for a ride on the hand-painted horses or to play the brass ring game. 

After horsing around, you’ll have worked up an appetite, and spring is the best time to land coveted reservations that would have summer travelers waiting months for (like at l’étoile in Edgartown, which opens in May but starts taking reservations mid-April). Or, you can try scoring a table as a walk-in at hotspots like The Sweet Life Cafe.

The centrally-located Vineyard Square Hotel & Suites in the heart of charming and walkable Edgartown has a springtime offer: stay any night Sunday through Thursday in May and experience prices 25–30 percent lower than the high season. Enjoy your private balcony or relax in a rocking chair on the front porch, hop on one of the hotel’s bicycles, or borrow some board games for some family fun.

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4. Manchester

In the shadow of the shamrock-hued vista of the Green Mountains, Manchester perfectly marries past and present with its storybook downtown punctuated by century-old storefronts and white church steeples careening skyward. Experience an innovative culinary scene and modern comforts. Spring is arguably the best time to experience the legendary hiking trails best known in these parts.

Though Prospect Rock is a popular trail, some parts are remarkably steep and you’ll find a handful of mountain streams to cross. If just a casual hiker, stick to the Lye Brook Falls Trail. It’s 4.5 miles out-and-back, well-marked, and rewards hikers with a breathtaking view of a 125-foot-tall waterfall that has new growth along its rocky face this time of year. If you prefer to sit back and take in southern Vermont’s springtime grandeur in a comfy seat, the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive opens at the end of May and is a stunning drive that ascends 3,846-feet to the summit, offering panoramic mountain views. One not-to-miss hidden gem in Manchester is The American Museum of Fly Fishing. What it lacks in size it makes up for in interest, with exhibits and artifacts that steal the attention of even the casual outdoor enthusiast.

The Kimpton Taconic Hotel is centrally located in the heart of historic Manchester Village and feels the part with its traditional clapboard architecture and grand front porch, while offering a simple, accessible luxury vibe. This season, take advantage of the Third Night’s a Charm package, where travelers get their third night for free when booking three or more nights (book by May 23, 2023).

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Rhode Island 

When America’s wealthiest families made Newport its blueblood summertime playground during the Gilded Age, it set the bar high for travelers for decades to come. Fortunately, more than a century later, the City by the Sea still delivers, with mansions turned museums that belonged to society’s elite allowing us hoi polloi to get an up close look at their 19th-century decadence. As summer brings tens of thousands to this coastal enclave on the southernmost tip of Aquidneck Island, it also brings top dollar. Even the most basic accommodations can be hundreds a night. But springtime allows travelers to not only enjoy so much of what Newport is best known for — Cliff Walk, mansions, and world-class dining — they can experience more than one million blooming daffodils across the city and a bevy of springtime events.

In April, the Newport Beer Festival welcomes more than 50 craft brewers from near and far plus live music and good grub at Fort Adams perched on the shores of Narragansett Bay. May brings the Newport Oyster & Chowder Festival , where you can slurp and savor briny bivalves to your heart’s content from growers across Rhode Island . Enjoy creamy clam chowder, stuffies, and other spoils of the sea (and plenty for landlubbers) and tons of drinks to toast the season. Even better, the circumnavigating Ocean Race sails into town mid-May, bringing with it nearly 10 days of excitement and fanfare. 

Best of all, lodging rates are still a far cry from what you’ll find in the summer and fall. Rooms at the newly christened Newport Harbor Island Resort on Goat Island can command hundreds in peak season. But take advantage of pre-summer offers like Book Early & Save, which offers up to 20 percent off the best available room rate when booking a month or more in advance (two-night minimum required; reservations are non-refundable). Ready to upgrade? Through April, the resort is offering a Suite Life package, featuring 15 percent off their roomy suites plus a complimentary bottle of prosecco, daily breakfast for two, and a pair of seasonal cocktails upon arrival.

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6. Cape Cod

The sandy, hook-shaped peninsula off mainland Massachusetts made famous by the Kennedys can shake off winter’s wrath with the best of them, so it should come as no surprise that Cape Cod feels different when spring arrives. Museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants along Main Street in towns including Falmouth, Dennis, Hyannis, Chatham, and Wellfleet — yes, they all have a Main Street — have a palpable energy. Seasonal ice cream shops start reopening for the season this time of year; others, like Cape Cod Creamery, forge ahead the whole year through.

The spring thaw might be best exhibited by the busy greens across the Cape’s more than 40 public and private golf courses. Highland Links in Truro is one of the oldest, built in 1892 and perched high along windswept bluffs overlooking a picture-perfect lighthouse (the tallest on the peninsula) and the sea. The Cape Cod Country Club in East Falmouth bordering scenic Coonamessett Pond is open to the public and enjoyed by golfers of all skill levels. Or stay and play at Blue Rock Resort in South Yarmouth with its own par-3 course. In celebration of the resort’s reopening in mid-April, the Goodbye, Winter Blues package includes perks like early check-in and late check-out, a flexible cancellation policy, and a special welcome amenity upon arrival. Even better, guests enjoy reciprocal rights with the other Red Jacket Resorts nearby including access to dining, swimming pools, and a large expanse of private beaches.

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7. Bar Harbour

Nestled in Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor is a quaint small town and a gateway to Acadia National Park. Most visitors stay here when visiting Acadia , but Bar Harbour is also fun to explore on its own. Bar Harbor is renowned for its breathtaking coastal beauty, yachts and lobster boats, and mesmerizing views of islands and the ocean. 

Walk along West Street, learn local history at the Abbe Museum , go to an oceanarium, sample craft beers, eat fresh seafood caught in local waters. and be sure to save room for one of the memorable slices of blueberry pie served throughout the city.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Bar Harbor.

8. Block Island

Rhode island.

Located off the southern coast of Rhode Island, Block Island features 17 miles of shoreline, as well as old-fashioned cottages and two historical lighthouses. And since Block Island is just under 10 square miles, it’s very easy to see on a weekend getaway.

Block Island is an especially great summer getaway, as all the beaches on the island are free for everyone, which is a unique feature in this Rhode Island region.

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Block Island.

What Are the Best Coastal Weekend Getaways in New England?

Cape Cod, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Block Island, Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park are some of the top New England weekend getaways where you can soak in the gorgeous coastal views and dine at fresh seafood restaurants.

Where to Go for a Countryside Weekend Getaway In New England?

The White Mountains region makes for an especially magical weekend trip in New Hampshire. Home to the highest mountain in New England and cozy towns like Jackson and North Conway, this region of New Hampshire is an immensely exciting retreat.

What’s the Cheapest Time for a Weekend Getaway in New England?

Booking a trip during the shoulder season can turn the most expensive getaways in New England into more affordable vacation spots. The fall offers spectacular foliage to enjoy at your own pace in endearing towns like Burlington, Vermont, and Newport, Rhode Island.

Who is a New England Getaway Best For? 

Those hungry for adventure, culinary delights, cultural experiences, and sports enthusiasts will find something to suit their tastes. From hiking through challenging terrain and taking in the atmosphere at Fenway Park to indulging in mouthwatering lobster rolls, you’ll get to experience the very best that New England has to offer.

Andrea McHugh has been a professional freelance writer for more than 20 years and has served as a communications and media relations leader in the travel industry. Andrea writes about travel, food and wine, classic boats, and lifestyle topics and has a passion for road trips, family travel, weekend getaways, and last-minute adventures. Her byline has appeared in numerous international, national, and regional publications.

The Best Day Trips in New England

From hiking in the lush Green Mountains of Vermont to whale watching off the coast of Massachusetts, these are the best day trips in New England.

New England, covering the north east corner of the United States, is packed with natural, cultural and culinary treasures. Venture out of the main cities which include Boston, Portland and Burlington, and you’ll find green rolling hills, wild national and state parks, quaint historic towns and beautiful beaches along the coast.

Road trips in New England are sure to provide you with plenty of surprises, whether it’s sampling a delicious lobster roll on the rugged coast of Maine, or marvelling at the autumn leaves in Vermont and Massachusetts.

As the first destination for many of the earliest settlers from Europe, New England is steeped in American history. A great way to learn about the region’s fascinating past is at one of its renowned living history museums. However, the real delight of going on a day trip in New England is found in the remarkable scenery – plunging gorges, lush forests and tall mountains await, so make sure you have your camera ready.

The best way to get to know the region? Hop in the car and go for a drive. New England road trips are pretty special (especially in the autumn) and being mobile will allow you to discover the wilder side of this enchanting corner of the United States.

The Best Day Trips In New England

Explore acadia national park.

One of Maine’s finest natural treasures, Acadia National Park is a must if you’re looking for active day trips in New England. From hiking, mountain biking, skiing and fishing, there’s something to do here in every season. Plus, here you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views on the Eastern Seaboard. Climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain (the tallest peak on the Atlantic Coast), or marvel at the spectacular show at Thunder Hole, where the pounding sea meets the dark rocks.

Acadia National Park is also a wonderful place for cycling, with hundreds of miles of trails winding through forests, hills and along the dramatic coastline. This wild, rugged part of Maine can be difficult to access, so we’d recommend choosing it as a day trip if you’re staying in Portland or other parts of Maine.

Head To A Food Festival

If you’re a foodie like me then you’ll probably want to go on a day trip in New England that involves some delicious grub! From the coast to the mountains, New England is known for its local produce, and there’s no better way to spend a day in Maine, Rhode Island or Massachusetts than by heading for a regional food festival. Whatever time of year you visit, you’ll have plenty to choose from.

In August, the Maine Lobster Festival draws huge crowds, eager to sample the iconic lobster rolls and watch the oyster shuckers compete to see who can work the fastest! A handy shuttle bus runs from major cities in Maine and the rest of New England, so this is an excellent choice for a day trip if you’re visiting Boston or other parts of the region.

Drive inland from Bar Harbor and you’ll find a sea of wild blueberries, also celebrated in August as part of the Wild Blueberry Festival. In May and June, Vermont hosts a Garlic and Herb Festival, followed by the Chocolate and Cheese Festival in the summer. Finally, beer lovers shouldn’t miss the New England Beerfest, a one-of-a-kind celebration of the region’s craft beer.

Go Whale Watching from Gloucester, MA

If you’re looking for unforgettable day trips in New England, then whale watching should be at the top of your list. The teeming waters of the Atlantic play host to all kinds of migrating whales between May and October, and one of the best places to see them is just off the coast of Gloucester, Massachusetts.

There are plenty of companies running day trips, and you can expect to see many different whale species, including blue whales, sperm whales, minke whales, and fin whales. You might also have the chance to spot dolphins, porpoises and several kinds of marine birds.

Visit A Living History Museum

For a unique day trip in New England, pay a visit to Old Sturbridge Village . It’s the perfect place to step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of Massachusetts. This world-class living history museum, boasts a complete reconstruction of a rural 1830s New England town. Just a stone’s throw from Worcester in south Massachusetts, Sturbridge Village includes 40 antique 19 th -century buildings, all set in beautiful grounds. You’ll get a taste of New England life in the 1830s, as well as having the chance to cook and sample an authentic 19 th -century New England community dinner.

If you’re a history nerd, don’t miss the chance to check out other innovative New England living history museums, such as the Plimouth Plantation , which recreates the earliest colony established by the pilgrims who arrived in Cape Cod from England in the 17 th century. This fantastic complex of open-air museums also include the Wampanoag Homesite, which provides the perfect introduction to the culture of the Native Nations of the New England coast. When it comes to interesting day trips in New England, any one of these museums would be an excellent choice.

Ride The Kancamagus Highway

Visitors often plan road trips in New England in autumn to see the dazzling array of fall colours. This hype is completely justified – in September and October the forests explode in a kaleidoscope of golds, yellows and reds. One of the best ways to experience this annual spectacle is by taking a New England road trip along the Kancamagus Highway, a 35-mile scenic drive through the White Mountain National Forest.

Regardless of the time you visit you can expect stellar views of the White Mountains, the Swift River and Sabbaday Falls, as well as a beautiful vista from Kancamagus Pass, the highest point on the highway. However, in autumn, the scenery along the ‘Kanc’ reaches another level. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera for this epic drive!

Tour The Town Of Salem

One of the best day trips in New England, especially if you’re staying in Boston, is to ride out to the historic town of Salem, site of the infamous 1692 Salem witch trials. Salem is a 30-minute train journey from Boston (costs around $10) and there’s plenty to see and do in a day.

Don’t miss the Salem Witch Museum , its impressive Gothic exterior and fascinating exhibits. Art lovers will enjoy spending a few hours in the Peabody Essex Museum . Plus, while you’re in Salem, be sure to stroll around town on the Salem Heritage Trail and pick up some spooky souvenirs on Essex Street, the downtown shopping hub. Time your visit for Halloween fo ran extra spooky experience.

Where To Stay In New England

The old inn on the green, new marlborough.

This beautiful 18 th -century coaching inn is set in idyllic rolling green hills. The Old Inn on the Green is one of the most romantic places to stay in New England. It’s perfectly located in the heart of the Berkshires in western Massachusetts, making it the ideal destination for those wanting to see the fall leaves or couples seeking a romantic getaway.

There’s an excellent restaurant lit only by candlelight, which serves up delicious meals made from locally-sourced produce. With bags of character, period décor, and stunning views over the hills, this lovely inn is one of the top places to stay in New England.

Check availability and latest prices here

The Chesterfield Inn, West Chesterfield

Looking for a cosy retreat in New Hampshire? Look no further than the Chesterfield Inn, located in West Chesterfield in the Connecticut River Valley. If you stay here you’ll be in the perfect location for exploring New Hampshire and Vermont, with easy access to Chesterfield Gorge and Spofford Lake.

The rooms are sumptuously decorated, many with wooden beams and open fires, making it a wonderful spot for autumn or winter weekend getaways. The service is friendly and the food is excellent, but the real draw here is the scenery, which you can admire from a lounger in the lush garden.

Hidden Pond Resort, Kennebunkport

The Hidden Pond Resort, tucked away in a dense forest on Maine’s southern coast, is one of the most unique and beautiful places to stay in New England. Spread over 60 acres and surrounded by tall birch trees, the resort boasts small cottages and bungalows, decorated in a rustic style with all the modern comforts you’ll need for a blissful retreat into nature.

Wondering about food? Here the produce comes directly from the on-site farm. Plus, while on holiday you can enjoy luxury treatments in the treetop spa. With an outdoor pool, bar, and hammocks swinging peacefully from the trees, this is the kind of hotel you won’t want to leave!

Wherever you choose to stay, there are so many amazing great day trips in New England! Hopefully this has given you lots of inspiration to plan your adventure. Looking for some other great places to visit? Don’t miss my guide to visiting Vermont in winter.

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The Best New England Trips To Take in the Spring

Expert Advice , Outdoor & Adventure

The New England states are full of unique beauty in every season, but after a long winter, natives and tourists look forward to getting outside and exploring new destinations. Visitors flood many of the New England travel destinations during the summer and fall, but exploring in the spring allows you to take advantage of the warmer temperatures and popular spots without the crowds. These are some of the best New England trips to take in the spring—and don’t worry; there’s something for everyone.

Niantic, Connecticut

As soon as the weather gets warm, many people start dreaming of the beach. Niantic is a quaint beach town with a free year-round boardwalk, cafés, antique stores, and a local chain of used bookstores. Travelers looking for a slower pace will love Niantic.

Newport, Rhode Island

Every April, Newport, Rhode Island blooms with daffodils and even hosts the Daffodil Days Festival, where visitors can admire over a million flowers. More casual flower fans can appreciate the blooms scattered throughout the city. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy the Norman Bird Sanctuary or go hiking at Sachuest Point.

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Just because Wolfeboro is branded as “America’s Oldest Summer Resort” doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this lake town in the spring. Active adventurers who want to boat, swim, and get involved in other water sports will love Wolfeboro. Keep in mind that it’s a more popular area, so if you need to make hotel reservations or rent a vehicle for a larger group, you should plan your vacation well in advance.

Woodstock, Vermont

Though Vermont is known more of an autumn vacation destination, the destination packs a lot of punch in the spring. Animal enthusiasts will want to take a trip to Woodstock in the spring for its annual Baby Animal Day. The host, Billings Farm, allows visitors to meet its lambs, calves, chicks, and piglets. If you love not only animals but also the foods they can make, consider sampling the delicious cheeses in the area. And people who want something special to wash that cheese down with can take a brewery tour at nearby Long Trail Brewery or sample local spirits at Vermont Spirits.

This list certainly isn’t comprehensive of all the best New England trips to take in the spring, but it’s certainly a place to get started. Whether your group wants a relaxing beach vacation in a quaint town, a trip full of botanical nature, a sporty holiday at the lake, or an opportunity to meet newborn animals, New England has something to offer for everyone.

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8 of the Best New England Day Trips to Take This Spring

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Spring is fickle in the Northeast, but this list of the 8 best New England day trips will reward you for taking a trip outside, no matter how the weather is behaving.

The Best Day Trips in New England

If autumn is New England’s glorious crown, then spring is her dedicated servant, setting up the countryside for warmer weather and all of earth’s beautiful colors.

In forming our list of best New England day trips we take advantage of spring weather conditions to explore the New England destinations that don their finest at summer’s early wakening. So, take a look below, pick a day, and get out and explore.

1. Pick a Pack of Posies at a Rhode Island Tulip Farm

Keriann and Jeroen Koeman, owners of Wicked Tulips in Johnstown, Rhode Island, are the only tulip bulb growers on the east coast. Every spring, they open the fields for a pick-your-own fest of color.

Since starting their New England eco-friendly endeavor in 2015, the couple has seen a tremendous response to their pick-your-own tulip days. Each year New England residents and visitors flock to the fields to gather armloads of fragrant blooms. However, just as spring is unpredictable in New England, so is tulip growing. Shoots can sprout any time from late February into April. For up-to-the-minute updates growing condistions, be sure to check the farm’s bloom report .

To afford visitors a better experience and protect the fragile blooms, Wicked Tulip has instituted a ticketing system, so despite the fickle spring weather forecast, you’ll need to plan ahead.

Weekend slots in particular sell out fast, as locals often take day trips in New England. But don’t be surprised to see week days fill up as well, particularly as the temperatures really start to warm.

To find out when picking will start or to reserve your slot, visit the farm’s website . And keep in mind, visitors who arrive without a pre-purchased ticket will be turned away.

2. Pick Your Own Strawberries at Brown’s Harvest

This New England destination is more than a place to visit.  It’s an institution.

The Brown family began harvesting crops from New England’s rocky soil as far back as the late 1800s. Over the years, they’ve grown a variety of products from valuable shade leaf tobacco to fruits and vegetables.

Today, Brown’s Harvest offers pick-your-own strawberries, blueberries and pumpkins, nicely covering the warmer New England months with a steady offering of delights. It’s a real incentive to get outside for those of us who like to harvest some of the ingredients we’ll need for breakfast or dessert.

Picking is easy in well-drained sandy soil and prices are reasonable, with strawberries coming in at $2.99 a pound in the past. We picked two flats in less than an hour.

To find out when picking begins, check the farm’s website . Gathering your own fresh fruit is definitely one of the best New England day trips.

3. Find Connecticut’s Lost Village

It isn’t often that you get to trod where ghostly footsteps echo, and that’s part of the allure of the Westledge trail, located in the McClean Game refuge in Granby, Connecticut as well as land trust properties in neighboring Simsbury.

The path traces miles of history, starting at the trailhead on Firetown road. Not far in, you’ll be lured easily off the path by the sound of a roaring waterfall.

If the weather is warm, it’s a great place to cool off, and you might want to take the respite. Shortly after, the real fun begins as the rumbling terrain of the Garret Stairs heralds the start of your upward trek.

The Garret Stairs formed the primary stage coach route from Albany, New York to Hartford in the 1700s. As you climb, you’ll start to understand the name and wonder how passengers survived the terraced hill, especially the downward ride.

The stairs are briefly interrupted by the Hop Brook. The old bridge has since washed away, so you’ll have to do some wading or rock hopping to regain the trail and reach the last traces of the town of Pilfershire.

It was a bustling place from the 1700s to the 1800s, long before anyone thought of taking New England day trips. A thriving community of 50 homes, a dye house, cider mill and distillery once inhabited the rocky ledge. All that’s left now are cellar holes, stone walls and a smattering of historical facts.

It seems the mills and dye shop eventually closed, the stage coach route was changed, and fires claimed many of the original buildings as well as a few lives. Eventually, it is believed that surviving residents moved to a lake community in southern Massachusetts, though no one knows why.

What remains today is an echo of those early inhabitants and the whispered feel of someone watching.

Spring is a great time to visit this secret New England destination, before brush, undergrowth, or leaves, cover the foundations.

4. Best Day Trips in New England Troll the Ocean Deep

Many day trips in New England leave land and take sail for adventurous pursuits over the white-capped waves of the Atlantic. That’s the kind of fun you’ll find served up by Tim Tower of the Bunny Clark. Despite recent changes to Maine’s Cod fishing regulations, the Bunny Clark continues to set out from Ogunquit Maine in search of denizens of the deep. According to Tower’s regularly updated fishing reports, most days are successful.

Last year, anglers from across the U.S. continued to haul in a bounty of specimens, including pollock, halibut, haddock, hake, cusk, redfish, monkfish and mackerel .

The Bunny Clark specializes in bottom fishing deep in the Atlantic. Anglers may use bait or jigs, and the mate will prepare or fillet your fish if you wish.

If you’ve never tried deep-sea fishing, why not make this spring the time?

5. Welcome New Life at this New England Destination

What better way to celebrate spring than checking up on some of nature’s newest additions, and zoos across New England provide the perfect opportunity.

Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, Connecticut, may not be one of the more widely-known attractions in New England, but they haven’t let that stop them from supporting the cause of conservation with the birth of a new baby giant anteater in the summer of 2021. Following a 175-day gestation period, the new addition made its way into the world, but it wasn’t until December that the infant anteater’s gender was determined and revealed. It seems that E.O and Pana, two of the zoos most prolific anteaters, are now the proud parents of a new baby girl.

By venturing out to visit with the newest addition to the Beardsley Zoo, you’ll be doing more than embarking on one of the best New England day trips. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit with a large variety of rare wildlife, including the maned wolf, amur leopard and howler monkeys to name a few.

Likewise, the Roger Williams Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island saw its own baby boom in 2021, welcoming a quartet of femal nine-banded armadillos, dubbed ‘The Golden Girls’. As it turns out, 4 was the magic number for the zoo last year as they also welcomed the same number of baby river otters to their ranks. Rounding out the list of new additions, was Boudica, a golden lion tamarin and Beany, a two-toed sloth.

If you’re looking to celebrate the season of rebirth with some of nature’s cutest newest additions, Beardsley and Roger Williams Zoos are the places to be this spring.

6. Exploring the Rails around New England

For a unique experience this spring, take a day trip out Rhode Island way for an excursion you won’t find anywhere else in New England. The Rail Explorers: Rhode Island Division offers anyone in average physical condition the chance to view little-witnessed sights of the state’s back scenery aboard a peddle-powered rail vehicle.

Cars offer seating for two to four passengers who peddle their way down defunct rail lines through some of the most stunning scenery the state has to offer. Two tours are available. The Northern Ramble offers guests the opportunity to explore the scenic line that runs between Portsmouth and the Sakonnet River. This six-mile trip is a one-way excursion, so shuttle service is provided on the return.

For a round-trip adventure, jump aboard the Southern Circuit. This 6-mile out and back adventure allows for a 30-minute break at the exclusive Bayside Station a waterfront picnic area reserved for the use of Rail Explorer guests. If you make it back to the station and still haven’t had your fill of rail travel, hop abaord the Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad for a dinner experience, and end your New England day trip in style.

Best New England Day Trips from Boston

If you’re seeking one of the best New England day trips within proximity to Boston, it really is hard to go wrong. From museums to outdoor historical pursuits and some of the best nature hiking, it’s easy to find somewhere to explore this spring.

Boston Public Garden

When the weather is fine, it’s hard to miss an opportunity to visit the Boston Public Garden. Soak in the sun as well as the scent of new blooms, while reveling in the fact that you’re treading two centuries of horticulural preservation in the country’s oldest botanical garden. You’ll find over 80 species of plants throughout the garden greenhouses, and many will make their way throughout the city as the warmer weather continues.

Once you’ve witnessed the bounties of nature, enjoin with a well-established tradition and drift out on a swan boat to enjoy the flowers in bloom from a lagoon vantage point. The swan boats have been a fixture ath the Public Garden since 1870, when Rober Paget began rowing residents out onto the lagoon aboard his trusty rowboat.

The Salem Heritage Trail

While Boston is alive with its own historical context, heading out on a history hunt this spring could easily take you into the surrounding environs. A visit to the National Park Service Salem Regional Visitor Center, for example, is the starting point for an adventure into the past. You’ll begin your leap into history with a 27-minute video that vividly depicts Salem’s past, before starting out on foot to visit the historical markers that formed the fabric of the area.

You’ll pass by the Daniel low Building, the site of Salem’s first town hall and the auspicious location where the first Continental Congress was selected in 1774. The darker side of Salem is also on display as you cross paths with the Witch House, the home of Jonathan Corwin who served as judge during the fateful Salem Witch Trials.

It seems that every direction you turn on the Salem Heritage Trail puts you face to face with history, making it one of the best New England day trips for a spring day.

We're Kat and Ali, a pair of mother-daughter travel bloggers exploring the U.S. We're sharing our experiences, tips and insights to help you more easily get out and explore the beautiful landscapes and places of this nation.

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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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17 Memorable New England Day Trips Perfect for Every Season

Looking to explore new places without the time and cost of an overnight stay? New England day trips are the perfect hassle-free way to discover unfamiliar towns and destinations while creating lasting memories. You’d be surprised by the interesting things you can find just a short drive from home. It’s a convenient travel option that won’t kill your car’s mileage or your budget. 

Growing up as a Rhode Island native, I’ve taken my fair share of day trips throughout New England, making for some of my best childhood adventures and cherished family time. Using my expertise, I’ve created a list of the best New England day trip destinations perfect for a long weekend or spontaneous excursion.

Most of these New England day trips are within a two-hour drive from central Massachusetts. Whether it’s enjoying a scenic drive to Brattleboro, Vermont, or revisiting American history at Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts, the opportunities are endless. 

New England Day Trips

Don’t know which location would suit you best? I’ve got you covered. Here are my top picks to help guide you on your next day trip. Let the fun begin. 

• Best for families: Mystic, CT
• Best for nature lovers: Berkshires, MA
• Best seaside day trip: Newport, RI
• Best for history lovers: Salem, MA or Plymouth, MA
• Best for relaxation: Litchfield, CT

Day Trips in Massachusetts

Most day trip destinations in Massachusetts are no more than a two hour drive from southern Vermont or New Hampshire, Boston, Providence, or Hartford.

Known for its spooky history, Salem Massachusetts offers a great experience for Halloween lovers or those looking to immerse themselves in early American history. Fall is the ideal season to visit, with the leaves changing and lively parades and events. If busy crowds aren’t for you, the summer months are equally enchanting with waterfront views. Conveniently located an hour from central Massachusetts, this city attracts visitors from around the country. 

One of the main tourist attractions is the Salem Witch Museum , telling the history of the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. Along with the museum, Salem features the Salem Witch Trails Memorial , honoring the victims, and The Witch House , once home to Judge Jonathan Corwin, who had an active role in the trials (and recognizable from the movie Hocus Pocus.)

Additionally, the Pickering Wharf Marina is a beautiful spot to dine by the water at restaurants like Sea Level Oyster Bar, Finz Seafood & Grill, and Village Tavern. The area has a variety of shopping opportunities and evening entertainment. Before heading home, stop by Goodnight Fatty for delicious freshly baked cookies, soft-serve ice cream, or a combination of both. It’s the perfect way to end the day and treat yourself for all the walking. Be warned, the bakery operates exclusively on Fridays through Sundays.

Read more: Bewitching Things to do in Salem, MA

Boston stands as a beloved city, renowned for its esteemed education, historical sites, successful sports teams, and delicious cuisine. No matter your interests, Boston has something for everyone to enjoy. The best time to explore the city’s signature highlights is from late spring to early fall, offering the perfect temperature before the start of New England’s unpredictable weather.

A Boston Duck Tour is an excellent way to kick off your trip, providing an introduction to the city. The tour features both land and water sightseeing, offering insight into major attractions. Sites include a visit to the historic Old State House, the Charles River, and America’s first public park and botanical garden. After the tour concludes, consider revisiting your favorite locations to get a closer look. For a memorable dining experience, head to Boston Burger Company for lunch or dinner.

This local gem’s extensive menu of juicy burgers like the Green Monstah to freak frappes like Dough My Goodness . With multiple locations across the Boston area, you can easily savor their flavors no matter where you are. If you’re on the go, Faneuil Hall Marketplace stands as another must-visit destination. Stop to shop at boutiques, explore the diverse food options at Quincy Market (my favorite is Mmmac N’ Cheese), and watch lively street performances. Faneuil Hall adds flavor to your day and is a welcoming all-in-one environment.

Surrounded by beautiful homes, rich American history, and friendly locals, Plymouth Massachusetts is the ideal getaway for history nerds, seafood lovers, and anyone eager to learn more about culture. September through November is the optimal time to visit this coastal town to take in fall foliage and explore well-preserved artifacts.

A prominent attraction drawing many to Plymouth is The Mayflower ll . This historical replica mimics the boat that transported the Pilgrims from England to America. Take a tour above and below deck to see the challenging conditions travelers endured during their 66 days at sea. You can also visit the Plimoth Patuxet Museum to learn about the day-to-day life of Patuxet people or stroll through a recreation of a 17th-century Colonial village.

In close proximity, Plymouth Rock stands as a landmark where the Pilgrims stepped ashore. Embraced by the beautiful harbor, this iconic rock is a site worth seeing, especially if you happen to be in the area. Enjoy waterfront shopping at Miller’s Country Store , renowned for its saltwater taffy, or savor fresh seafood takeout like clam chowder from Wood’s Seafood , Plymouth is an unforgettable destination. 

Read more: Things to do in Plymouth, MA

Cape Cod is a popular summertime destination known to have some of New England’s best beaches. From nature reserves and wildlife sanctuaries to small towns and shopping, Cape Cod offers a range of experiences for those who love the outdoors or those looking for some fresh seafood. Just under two hours from central Massachusetts, a day trip to Cape Cod guarantees an adventure that will leave you eager for more. 

Cape Cod’s sandy beaches are the perfect way to relax. If you’re looking for spots to sunbathe, Coast Guard, Head of the Meadow, Nauset, and Marconi Beach are the best for getting a tan. For those not interested in soaking in the sun, Race Point and Herring Cove are better options, common for water-related activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. These beaches are part of The Cape Cod National Seashore , covering 40,000 acres with stunning landscapes, dunes, and a refreshing ocean breeze. It’s the perfect paradise for watching the sunset or sunrise.

Downtown Provincetown is another lively option to explore, coming to life with shopping and dining, it will just take a bit longer to get there. Stop by Commercial Street to take home a souvenir and grab a sweet treat at Fudge Factory which has an assortment of candies, chocolates, and even icecream. Finish off the day with dinner at Jimmy’s HideAway for fresh sea catches or Provincetown Brewing Co. for craft beer and burgers.

Read more: Favorite things to do on Cape Cod

Old Sturbridge Village

Explore New England during the 1830s at Old Sturbridge Village . Spanning more than 200 acres of land with 40 historical buildings, this museum offers an immersive experience for both children and adults. To avoid crowds, late spring is the ideal time to visit, with warm temperatures for walking along the nature trails and exhibits.

December is also a great time as the museum offers special events like Christmas by Candlelight where guests can join in on holiday traditions. Just a half-hour drive from central Massachusetts, Old Sturbridge Village encourages guests to take part in hands-on learning. 

Get a glimpse into the early years of the nation, where you can see the day-to-day lives of small-town villagers. Costumed historians will teach you about village life, from farmers to blacksmiths, all ready to answer your questions. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the countryside, home to a variety of farm animals including cows, goats, chickens, pigs, and more.

Enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride and savor a delicious meal at either the Bullard Tavern Cafe, with options like paninis, salads, and chicken tenders, or the Ox & Yoke Cafe, known for its baked goods. If you’re looking for a change of scenery outside the village, stop by Publick House for classic comfort food or Enrico’s Brick Oven Pizzeria for a hot slice. 

Located in the heart of central Massachusetts, Worcester is seeing a renaissance with the new baseball stadium, breweries, and restaurants downtown. With a blend of cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and scenic parks, Worcester offers an array of experiences to choose from. While visitors are welcomed year-round, I recommend planning a visit during the summer season to take advantage of the warm weather and daylight.

Green Hill Farm Park is a great spot to meet farm animals such as llamas, miniature horses, and alpacas or enjoy a summer barbeque at one of its picnic tables. The EcoTarium is another great option to explore nature and wildlife further. This engaging science museum is an interactive learning environment expanding across three floors of exhibits, ranging from live animal habitats to a planetarium. Its 45-acre campus is designed to captivate visitors of all ages. The museum also features an outdoor park, train rides, and a history collection of more than 50,000 species.

If shopping is on your agenda, look no further than Crompton Collective , where locally crafted treasures await. From an extensive collection of jewelry and home decor to vintage clothing, this unique shop is stocked with items waiting to find the right home. Finish your trip with an American classic, hot dogs, and ice-cold chocolate milk from George’s Coney Island . This Worcester landmark has been around for generations and is loved for its old-fashioned diner style. The giant neon sign marks the spot for quick, delicious, and budget-friendly food.

Recognized as America’s oldest seaport, Gloucester, Massachusetts, draws visitors to its coastal community with its rich fishing history, stunning beaches, and delicious seafood. Whether you’re a fisherman, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, this day trip offers experiences to fit your interests. Located just about an hour and a half away from central Massachusetts, Gloucester is an ideal destination to explore the region’s fishing and whaling history. Given its seaside setting, Gloucester is best to visit during the summer season. 

Whale watching is a top attraction for visitors to Gloucester. Both Seven Seas and Cape Ann whale watching present the opportunity to see marine animals in their natural habitat. As many whale species migrate to Gloucester’s shores, whale watching offers an excellent way to get a better understanding of marine mammals’ behavior. Humpback whales are commonly found alongside potential sightings of dolphins and sharks.

Take a break from sailing the seas to explore the Eastern Point Lighthouse . Along the rocky shoreline, the lighthouse is a breathtaking sight to see. While the lighthouse itself is fenced off, you can walk along the seawall for a closer look. The view gives a glimpse of the Boston skyline, making for a great view to capture photos, especially during sunset. Parking is available for $10.

Grab a bite to eat at Seaport Grille for lunch or dinner. Their menu includes options that cater to everyone’s palates, featuring dishes like mouthwatering lobster mac and cheese, scallops, and margarita pizza. 

Read more: Things to do in Gloucester, MA

Springfield

Springfield is a large yet quiet city that is surrounded by American history, artistic expression, and sports culture. Best for basketball lovers and families, Springfield serves as a great day trip. Located an hour away from central Massachusetts, its accessible location ensures visitors can explore its attractions year-round. I suggest planning a visit during the fall season to watch the leaves change color and to take in the crisp autumn air. 

Known as the birthplace of basketball, Springfield is home to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame , a must-visit destination for fans of men’s and women’s college and professional basketball. Spread across three floors, the hall showcases a collection of jerseys, shoes, and informative videos about the sport’s history. One noteworthy exhibit is dedicated to Kobe Bryant, designed by wife, Vanessa. After exploring, guests can practice their skills on the hall’s basketball and browse the gift shop for memorabilia.  

The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss is another captivating experience for visitors in Springfield. Transporting guests back to childhood, this museum will make you feel like you’re inside the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss’s famous stories. With colorful rooms and life-sized statues, the Seuss Museum appeals to more than just children.

A ticket purchase grants you access to five museums, including The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Muesuem, George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, Springfield Science Muesuem, Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts, and Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History.

Before heading home, indulge in a delicious burger at Plan B or enjoy the community vibe and great food at White Lion Brewery . You may also want to make a pitstop at the Yankee Candle Village to stock up on gifts and explore the elaborate Christmas village.

Read more: Things to do in and near Springfield, MA

This mountainous retreat is loved by many New Englanders for its natural beauty and abundance of outdoor adventures, but it is also known for its arts and culture. Whether you’re drawn to skiing, hiking, or art museums, the Berkshires make for a remarkable day trip experience.

Summer welcomes outdoor concerts and symphony performances, while spring showcases blooming flowers and hiking trails. In winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing, skiing, snow tubing, or cozy evenings by the fireside. Fall invites visitors to pumpkin patches and apple orchards. Located just an hour and a half from central Massachusetts, the Berkshires are the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a reset.

Those looking for art and culture and plan a stop at Edith Wharton’s The Mount or spend a day engaged with the immersive contemporary art at Mass MoCA . If you prefer to be active, take on the treetop aerial adventure course at Ramblewild or climb Monument Mountain .

In the winter, Jiminy Peak offers skiing, snow shoeing, and a thrilling mountain coaster. Enjoy snow tubing or night skiing at Bousquet Mountain and take on the slopes at the local’s favorite, Berkshires East .

If you’re feeling hungry, stop by Baba Louie’s in Great Barrington for sourdough pizza, pasta, or salads. Craving something sweet? Chocolate Springs in Lenox is the shop to cure your craving with a tempting selection of treats, including chocolate-covered pretzels, marshmallows, truffles, and more.

Read more: Things to do in the Berkshires with kids

Day Trips in Connecticut

An hour-and-a-half drive from central Massachusetts, Mystic Connecticut, is a great day trip spot for family fun and historians. Home to some of Connecticut’s most visited attractions, this charming town boasts a plethora of shopping, dining, and interactive experiences. Travelers come to its scenic shores to explore the vibrant streets, vineyards, and neighboring towns.

Step back in time and experience life in a 19th-century village at Mystic Seaport or enjoy shopping at the forty small shops and eateries at Olde Mistick Village .

Nearby, the Mystic Aquarium awaits, where you can witness marine life including penguins, beluga whales, and sharks. The aquarium features both indoor and outdoor exhibits, some of which allow you to touch fish like stingrays and crustaceans.

Start your trip with something sweet from Sift Bakery (featured in the Hallmark Movie Mystic Christmas ) and end it at Red 36, an outdoor restaurant and bar overlooking the Mystic River, for an all-around perfect day.

Read more: Things to do in Mystic, CT with kids

Litchfield, Connecticut is a small town located within a two-hour drive from central Massachusetts. Surrounded by farms, nature reserves, historic inns, and wineries, it creates the perfect space for relaxation and serenity. This countryside is a haven for introverts and can be used as a romantic escape for couples seeking uninterrupted quality time. The most popular to visit is during the early summer to early fall months, drawing people with its sunny days and warm temperatures.

Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy is an excellent starting point for your trip, home to more than 80 species of rare and endangered birds. Spanning 150 acres, this conservation works to protect more than 400 birds year-round, while conserving wetlands and educating visitors on the importance of protecting feathered friends. Frolick through the fields and learn about the adorable ducklings’ habitat. You could also hike up to the top of Mt. Tom in Litchfield to find some of the prettiest fall views in Connecticut from the old stone tower at the summit.

The Litchfield Distillery is another attraction to visit during your trip. Sample some of the Baker brothers’ 18 award-winning spirits, ranging from vodka and whiskey to bourbon and gin. Enjoy a complimentary tour to get a behind-the-scenes look into how they make their drinks and taste-test different flavors to find your favorite. On certain weekends, you can also enjoy live music outside at nearby Hopkins Vineyards .

For a quick bite to eat, visit The Pantry for baked goods, sandwiches, and salads, or sit down at the Market Place Tavern , in the oldest building in town. For delicious ice cream, line up at Arethusa Dairy for fresh, homemade deliciousness.

Day Trips in Rhode Island

Discover the hidden gems tucked within Rhode Island’s creative capital, Providence. Filled with prestigious universities, historic districts, and a talented artistic community, this small city carries metropolitan power without the overly crowded streets. Located within a 45-60 minute drive from central Massachusetts, Providence is a destination that attracts foodies and art lovers.

As a college student familiar with the Providence area, I recommend visiting during the spring when the weather warms up, just in time for events like WaterFire or enjoying a stroll through scenic landscapes.

A day trip to Providence with kids calls for a visit to Roger Willams Park Zoo , one of the oldest zoos in the country. With more than 100 species from across the globe, including monkeys, giraffes, and cheetahs, the zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience. Little kids will also enjoy the Providence Children’s Museum .

Another highlight for many visitors is the RISD Museum . Co-founded with the Rhode Island School of Design, this art museum has a collection of thousands of artworks ranging from modern art made by students to ancient textiles. With its rich history and diverse pieces from artists around the world, the RISD Museum makes for an educational adventure through art and culture.

For authentic Italian cuisine, head to “Little Italy,” commonly known as Federal Hill. This Italian neighborhood is decorated with Italian flags to represent its cultural heritage. Here you’ll find fantastic restaurants and bakeries serving traditional Italian goods like gnocchi and pastries like cannolis. One of my personal favorites is Costantino’s Venda Bar & Ristorante.

Read more: Things to do in Providence, RI

Known as the “City by the Sea”, Newport is a popular summer destination for its sandy beaches, yacht-filled harbors, and relaxation. Surrounded by some of the state’s wealthiest residential properties and beautiful beach houses, Newport will transport you to island time the moment you cross the Newport Bridge.

Just an hour and a half from central Massachusetts, Newport makes an unforgettable day trip, whether you’re a history nerd or an avid beachgoer. Surprisingly, Newport isn’t just a summer hotspot, turning into a winter wonderland with holiday lights, festivals, and plenty of opportunities for ice skating. 

A must-see attraction during your visit to Newport is the Newport Mansions . Built during the Gilded Age, these historic estates have more than 250 years of American history. Each mansion offers a glimpse into the luxury lives of the families who once lived in them, through its interior design and astounding architecture. The Breakers is one of the most popular mansions followed by Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff.

Bowen’s Wharf is another Newport specialty that offers a little bit of everything. Whether you’re looking to shop or try one of their exquisite dining options, the wharf’s friendly environment helps you immerse yourself in Newport’s lifestyle. With its old-town charm, Bowen’s Wharf is great for sunset views over the marina, refreshing drinks, and fresh seafood. This is also the spot to jump on board a sailing vessel for a ride around the harbor. End your day with a quick walk to Kilwin’s on Thames Street for some homemade ice cream.

Read more: Things to do in Newport, Rhode Island

Beloved for its state parks, coastal cliffs, and marshlands, Jamestown serves as a wonderful destination for a scenic day trip. Its seemingly quiet roads offer the perfect opportunity for a relaxing day by the water. From swimming and biking to fishing and kayaking, this island has a rich marine history and natural beauty that make it a must-visit destination, especially during the summer months. A little under an hour and a half away from central Massachusetts, Jamestown is for anyone who appreciates the great outdoors.

Beavertail State Park is a staple of Jamestown. Home to the third oldest lighthouse in the United States, it has played a crucial role in guiding ships and sailors to safety. The rocky coastline surrounding the lighthouse is great for hiking and climbing, although watch your step because the rocks can be slippery. Watch sailboats pass by, fly a kite, or bring a picnic to enjoy as you admire the view. 

Fort Wetherill State Park is another popular attraction found on 100-foot-high granite cliffs. Originally built as a military fort to protect the Narragansett Bay, Fort Wetherill now invites the public to explore its historic grounds. The park’s old war bunkers are decorated with colorful graffiti art, adding personality. Bring your fishing poles to cast out along the saltwater shorelines or a camera to capture memories of this beautiful town.

Work up an appetite? Visit JB’s on the Water for a classic New England lobster roll or Slice of Heaven Cafe for coffee and pastry.

Day Trips in New Hampshire

Portsmouth New Hampshire is a favored location for its historical sites, waterfront eats, and tax-free shopping opportunities. Just an hour and a half drive from central Massachusetts, Portsmouth invites visitors to enjoy a night out on the town or a leisurely day exploring the beautiful scenery.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, trailblazer, or a lover of learning, Portsmouth makes for a memorable day trip. The spring and summer months are the best times for seasonal activities.

The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the start of Portsmouth’s rich history, home to the USS Albacore, a groundbreaking creation by the U.S. Navy for testing modern submarine features. Renowned for setting an underwater world speed record, the vessel invites guests to explore its interior. Move from room to room listening to the audio stations including crew member stories about their experiences at sea.

If you’re looking to get some fresh air, Prescott Park is the place to be. Spanning ten acres, the park is surrounded by trees and showcases a stunning garden with vibrant flower beds. Visitors can enjoy a view of the Memorial Bridge while unwinding on a bench or strolling along the pathways. If you are visiting with kids, you will want to spend time exploring the nearby Strawbery Banke Museum or walking the Portsmouth Black History Trail .

When you get hungry, you have plenty of options to choose from, including popular Flatbread Company for wood-grilled pizza or Row 34 for fresh oysters and seafood.

Read more: Things to do in Portsmouth, NH

Day Trips in Maine

Portland, Maine packs a whole lot into its three-mile-long peninsula. Despite being smaller than some other cities on the East Coast, there are plenty of reasons to travel up north, including the history, landmarks, artisan breweries, and delicious food .

Portland, which is only two hours away from central Massachusetts, comes alive with a packed social calendar, especially in the summer months of June through August. Whether you’re a foodie, nature lover, lone explorer, or a family looking for excitement, Portland has you covered.

No trip to Portland is complete without two things, a stop at Portlandhead Light for the view of the lighthouse and to scramble on the rocks, and a lobster roll. You can even try to catch some yourself on a lobster boat tour (and then the Portland Lobster Company will cook it up for you if you get lucky!)

Want to stay out of the crowd and save money? No issue, the Portland Freedom Trail offers a free, self-guided tour passing thirteen significant locations one being the local Underground Railroad. Kids will enjoy Children’s Museum and Theater of Maine , while adults may want to join a Portland beer tour .

After a long day, Portland’s Bar Futo , is a great dining spot that serves a variety of skewers and tiny plates such as charred shishitos and Maine uni with potato mochi. They specialize in Japanese binchotan cooking. Not to mention, the Big Mac skewers will leave your mouth watering! Of course, kids might prefer a stop at Duckfat for those amazing french fries and milkshakes.

Read more: Things to do in Portland, Maine

Day Trips in Vermont

Brattleboro.

An hour and a half from central Massachusetts, Brattleboro, Vermont, is tucked away in the charming countryside along the banks of the Connecticut River and attracts a wide range of artists and creatives. Travelers can (and should) flock to Brattleboro in all four seasons; spring is sugar season and summer bring ideal weather, while crisp fall vistas showcase the beautiful foliage and the winter months bring snowshoeing and ice fishing.

Downtown Brattleboro is bursting with opportunities to express your creative side with workshops for all ages and interests including woodworking at Hatchspace , pottery at the Wheelhouse Clay Center , and glass blowing at Fire Arts Vermont . You can even try your hand at circus arts or watch a performance at the New England Center for the Circus Arts .

If you are looking for local products, the Robb Family Farm is the place to get maple syrup, as well as maple sugar candy and maple cream. During the summer months, take home fresh fruits and vegetables at the Brattleboro Farmers Market. Stop into Tavernier Chocolates for hand-crafted chocolates showcasing local ingredients. Or pop into the Grafton Village Cheese shop for a wonderful cheese tasting.

Work it all off by hiking the trails at the Retreat Farm and enjoy the food truck events they host in the summer. Finish it all up with a cold, local craft beer at either Whetstone Brewery or Hermit Thrush .

Fuel up for your adventures or car ride home at The Marina. This waterside restaurant offers canopy-shaded seating on the outdoor deck and water views are available from almost every seat inside as well. A juicy burger and seafood specialties like Rachael Ray’s beloved grilled, lime-marinated shrimp are among the many options available on its vast menu.

Need more ideas?

• Best kid-friendly museums in New England
• 110 Things to do in New England with kids
• Massachusetts bucket list
• Rhode Island bucket list

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Marissa is a lifelong Rhode Island resident and is currently a senior at Johnson & Wales University studying digital media and communications. She has a passion for storytelling and enjoys bringing experiences to life through her writing. Marissa has also written for Rhode Island Monthly and WPRI 12, and is the Media and Entertainment Editor for the Campus Herald at Johnson & Wales University.

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Publish Date: February 10, 2024

16 thoughts on “17 Memorable New England Day Trips Perfect for Every Season”

How about surfing day trip in Narragansett? A lot of people are saying that Narragansett offers the best surf in New England so it’s worth checking out. There are also a lot of day trips that you can do in and around Narragansett is surfing is not your thing. 🙂

My daughter tried surfing there this summer and loved it.

My hubby and I have wanted to do a New England raodtrip for quite awhile – these look like a whole bunch of fun spots to hit!

Let me know if you do as I would be happy to make some great food recommendations too.

Great list of ideas for day trips! We haven’t done Old Sturbridge Village yet and we need to get on it! We’d also love to see Salem! I love exploring in our own backyard! So much to see.

New England is so rich in history and outdoor adventure for sure!

The only one we haven’t visited is Old Sturbridge. Great list otherwise! I grew up in Plymouth and now we drive between Newport RI and Plymouth every summer week!

Any favorite restaurants in either?

Quito’s seafood in Bristol. Down on Thames St.over looks the water. So yummy!

We actually did a few of these when my son was 3 and I was pregnant with my daughter. Seems a lifetime ago, and I’d love to go back and tour New England anew! Great suggestions!

GREAT LIST! I’ve been wanting to plan a few staycation trips for spring break in a couple of weeks, and this is going to be super helpful!

Cool — maybe you can suggest some others in CT for a summer list.

Honestly you ROCK! I have started to plan for Summer road trips and was looking for 1 to 2 day trips to enjoy with the family.

I am so glad! Hope this helps. I think I’ll do another for summer.

What a great list! We have been to a more than a few and agree – great places. And love the Jamestown idea – that might be our next trip! We also like Providence (agree – fantastic food) and have spent lovely days in Newport, RI, too.

Newport is definitely a good one, although a bit more fun as it gets warmer.

Comments are closed.

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• Weekend Getaways

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.

Here are 14 day trips to take over spring break in New Jersey

Before we know it, schools across New Jersey are going to be on spring break and parents are going to be looking for ways to keep them occupied.

While you might not be able to plan for any elaborate vacations or getaways, there are tons of activities across New Jersey that the whole family can enjoy. And, the best part is, these are places you can take a day trip to for some much-needed adventure.

Here are 15 things to do over spring break across the Garden State.

Adventure Aquarium , Camden

Located along the Camden waterfront, Adventure Aquarium has been serving New Jersey since 1993. The aquarium features more than 15,000 aquatic animals throughout two million gallons of water. It allows guests to experience up-close animal encounters, interactive touch exhibits and the ability to learn about some of the ocean's greatest species.

Go: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden; 844-474-3474, adventureaquarium.com .

American Dream Mall , East Rutherford

The American Dream Mall is a one-stop shop for all things entertainment during spring break. Besides having more than 450 retail stores — making it the second-largest shopping mall in the country — American Dream Mall also has several other attractions for memorable family experiences.

Among these attractions is the DreamWorks Water Park, which is the largest indoor water park in the country. There is also Nickelodeon Universe Amusement Park — the western hemisphere's largest indoor theme park with 35 indoor rides and multiple playgrounds. There's also American Dream's Big Snow, the country's first and only indoor, year-round ski experience, as well as the Tilt Museum and Angry Birds Mini Golf.

Go: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford; 833-263-7326, americandream.com .

Diggerland , West Berlin

With four locations in England and its only United States location right here in New Jersey, Diggerland is a unique construction-themed amusement and water park. The attraction offers more than 40 rides and attractions, where kids have the opportunity to operate construction vehicles — kid-sized versions, of course — like bulldozers and excavators. The park also has a full service arcade, zip line and rock wall.

Go: 100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin; 856-768-1110, diggerlandusa.com .

FunTime Junction , Fairfield

FunTime Junction is an indoor children's entertainment center with activities that have been keeping families occupied since 1994. The center offers a 1,800-square-feet vest-less laser tag arena, a helicopter carousel ride, toddler playground, LiteZilla, Krazy Kars, a black light scavenger hunt and more. FunTime Junction's biggest attraction is a multi-level softplay climbspace with slide tubes, web ladders, bouncers and a jump pillow.

Go: 400 Fairfield Road, Fairfield; 973-882-9777, funtimejunction.com .

Insectropolis , Toms River

Also known as the Bugseum of New Jersey, Insectropolis takes guests through the insect world. Visitors are invited to view thousands of exotic insects from all over the world, and can even touch a live tarantula, millipede and a hissing cockroach. There are 12 different exhibits throughout, including an observation bee hive and a mud tube to crawl like a termite.

Go: 1761 Route 9, Toms River; 732-349-7090, insectropolis.com .

Liberty Science Center , Jersey City

Founded in 1993 and located within Liberty State Park, Liberty Science Center consists of 12 different museum exhibition halls, a live animal collection with 110 species, large aquariums, a 3D theater and the country's largest planetarium. The exhibits are constantly changing, with The Science Behind Pixar, Wild Kratts: Ocean Adventure and Touch Tunnel are among those currently open.

Go: 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City; 201-200-1000, lsc.org .

Mountain Creek , Vernon

While we might not see warm enough temperatures over spring break to enjoy the more than 30 attractions at Mountain Creek's waterpark, there are still other activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Mountain Creek offers ziplining tours, which are open to those of all ages, as long as they're at least 60 pounds and 48 inches tall. In this attraction, visitors will travel along a series of zip lines — ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet in length — while getting panoramic views of the tri-state area. And, if you're looking for something a little less daring, but still adventurous, trying Mountain Creek's TreEscape ropes course. Here, visitors must navigate rope walks, obstacles, climbing elements and zip lines while suspending above the trees.

Go: 200 Route 94, Vernon Township; 973-827-2000, mountaincreek.com .

RPM Raceway , Jersey City

In Jersey City, you can find an all-electric indoor go-kart and entertainment destination. RPM Raceway's state-of-the-art racing facility features two quarter-mile long European-style racetracks with Italian-made go-karts that can reach speeds up to 45 mph. The attraction also has other activities, like virtual reality battles, racing simulators, arcade games and billiards, and a snack bar.

Go: 99 Caven Point Road, Jersey City; 201-333-7223, rpmraceway.com .

Six Flags Great Adventure , Jackson

For a day full of adrenaline, take a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. The amusement park is home to 14 world-class roller coasts like El Toro, Kingda Ka, The Joker and Batman, as well as a variety of thrilling family rides like the Roaring Rapids and Skyscreamer.

Six Flags Great Adventures also features a 350-acre drive-through safari. The Safari Off Road Adventure takes guests on round-trip excursions aboard open-air vehicles where they can see as many as 1,200 animals from across the globe, including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions.

Go: 1 Six Flags Blvd., Jackson Township; 732-928-2000, sixflags.com/greatadventure .

Space Farms Zoo & Museum , Wantage

Space Farms Zoo & Museum is a complex that spans 100 acres in Sussex County. The zoo has more than 500 live wild animals, including lions, tigers, bears, leopards and more. There is also nine large museum buildings on the complex, with more than 50 antique cars, motorcycles, old horse-drawn carriages, old farm machinery and more. There is also a large picnic area, playground and restaurant available.

Go: 218 County Road 519, Sussex; 973-875-5800, spacefarms.com .

Sterling Hill Mining Museum , Ogdensburg

For those with inquisitive minds, the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg a perfect spring break attraction. Guests can participate in a walking tour that explores approximately 1,300 feet of tunnel inside the first level of the mine. During the tour, guests will learn about the equipment, history, working conditions and geology of the mine and will get a look inside areas like the lamp room, shaft station and mine galleries dating back to the 1830s. Sluice mining is another attraction, where visitors can purchase a bag of sand, which is then poured into a tray and dipped in water to reveal a variety of minerals and fossils.

Go: 20 Plant St., Ogdensburg; 973-209-7212, sterlinghillminingmuseum.org .

Turtle Back Zoo , West Orange

First opened in 1963 and currently part of the Essex County Parks Department, Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange consists of 1,400 animals across 20 acres in the South Mountain Reservation. The zoo has major exhibits like African Adventure, Big Cat Country, Essex Farm, Sea Lion Sound and a stingray touch tank. Turtle Back Zoo also has other activities like a safari mini golf, a prehistoric playground, pony rides, face painting and a butterfly tent.

Go: 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange; 973-731-5800, turtlebackzoo.com .

Van Saun County Park , Paramus

Van Saun County Park spans more than 130 acres and offers attractions like ball fields, picnic areas, playgrounds, splash pads and even a miniature train ride. The park is also home to the Bergen County Zoo, where guests are invited to explore animal exhibits, take carousel and pony rides, as well as watch free live animal shows in the zoo amphitheater.

Go: 216 Forest Ave., Paramus; 201-336-7275, cobergen.nj.us/parks-recreation/van-saun-county-park .

Wild West City , Byram Township

First opened in 1957, Wild West City is a family-owned, Western-themed park created by the American Foundation for the Preservation for the Old West. The attraction's sandy main street features replicas of buildings from notorious Western towns like Dodge City, Kansas, and Tombstone, Arizona. The park has live-action shows, a barnyard, museums, history demonstrations and train, pony and stagecoach rides.

Go: 50 Lackawanna Drive, Stanhope; 973-347-8900, wildwestcity.com .

Maddie McGay is the real estate reporter for  NorthJersey.com  and The Record, covering all things worth celebrating about living in North Jersey. Find her on  Instagram @maddiemcgay ,  on  X @maddiemcgayy , and sign up for her  North Jersey Living  newsletter.   Do you have a tip, trend or terrific house she should know about? Email her at  [email protected] .

Adventures in New England

A local's guide to savoring the history, culture, food and nature of the Northeast USA

A Local’s Guide to New England: Traveling New England, USA

Table of Contents

Why Visit New England?

When I first moved to Rhode Island in New England from the West Coast , some of my California friends were very confused about New England. New England is a geographic area comprising the states of Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. It is in the northeastern United States and has bustling seaside towns, complete with gorgeous lighthouses on its rocky coastline or islands, and quaint ski or artist towns in forested mountains.

Native Americans originally occupied New England until colonists settled here around 1600. Colonial history still abounds in places such as Salem, Massachusetts, Plimoth Plantation, and Newport, Rhode Island. New England was a staging ground in the abolition movement, religious freedom in the burgeoning United States, and the Industrial Revolution.

Its geography is some of the most diverse in the United States. New England has coastal grasslands, many islands, and a gorgeous mountainous coastline. And in just a week or two, you can explore it on a New England road trip.

One of the highlights of New England, and the reason many people know it, is its astounding, vibrant, and multicolored fall foliage, which can be found throughout the region.

Plan a Trip to Visit New England

Due to the distances you must cover and the relatively rural nature of our northeastern states, really experiencing New England requires a car. Alternatively, you could take a train throughout the area but would have difficulty leaving the cities.

Where to Begin Your New England Road Trip

The largest New England airport is in Boston. You can also fly into any of New York City’s airports and drive about an hour into Connecticut to start your journey.

The New England States

Clicking on any state name will bring you to a list of all my articles about that state.

Connecticut

Connecticut has many shades, from the affluent suburbs of NYC to the rural treed areas of the Eastern state; Connecticut is the inspiration of the Gilmore Girls’ Star’s Hallow.

Connecticut Highlights

• Fairfield County – Affluent suburbs of New York City.
• Litchfield County – Rural farmland with cute little villages.
• Hartford – Connecticut’s capital with a hip waterfront and great hiking nearby at Talcott Mountain. Be sure to visit the Mark Twain House.
• West Hartford – One of my favorite restaurants anywhere, Restaurant Bricco , is in this shopper and diner’s paradise.
• Mystic is a Colonial town with an excellent aquarium, a cute downtown, a working drawbridge,  and a Colonial Seaport.
• Connecticut’s coastline is perfect for kayaking among its grassy marshland, although they are not the best New England Beaches.
• The Connecticut River winds through most of the state. Take a boat ride down it or explore a few towns nestled along its shoreline, like Essex.
• Wethersfield-  Wander along the streets of the oldest town in Connecticut, then enjoy a walk by its riverfront.

Rhode Island

This state is one of my favorites, maybe because it is where I live, but also because even though it is small- just 37 by 48 miles- it has 384 miles of serpentine, rocky coastline. Here are a few of my favorite places to visit. Check out 47 Fabulous Things to Do in Rhode Island.

• Newport –  a historic summer retreat for America’s elite. This coastal town is my favorite, and most of my time is spent exploring this town!
• Providence – Spend an evening dining in our version of Little Italy, Federal Hill, or catching a spectacular public art exhibit, Waterfire, on our capital city’s canals.
• Block Island – a quickly accessible New England island perfect for beaches, biking, and boating.
• Westerly- This town has the opulent Ocean House, the casual beaches of Misquamicut, and the stunning natural beauty of the Napa Tree Conservation area, one of the best spots to see the sunset in Rhode Island .
• Narragansett has the best flat, white-sand beaches in the state.

Massachusetts

Most people center their time in Massachusetts in its capital city, Boston, a small, bustling city full of US history. But I recommend you head out into its beautiful mountain areas, such as the Berkshires.

• While in Massachusetts, you must visit its capital, Boston , a city of immigrants steeped in colonial history but with a vibrant art, music, and food scene.
• Salem was the site of the witchcraft trials of the 1600s and the home of Nathaniel Hawthorne, and it is one of the most unique New England towns.
• The Berkshires in Western Massachusetts is perfect for camping or attending an outdoor concert at Tanglewood.
• While in the Berkshires, see the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne.
• Northampton is one of my favorite Massachusetts towns and is an arty hippy haven.
• Springfield is the home of the Basketball Hall of Fame, Yankee Candle, a butterfly museum, and The Eric Carle Museum.
• Visit Massachusetts’s famous islands, such as Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard .
• Cape Cod is a peninsula with great bike rides and hikes, fabulous beaches, and seafood.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire has the chillest New England vibe. It has excellent foliage with its Presidential white mountain range and many laid-back, family-friendly ski towns.

• The White Mountains are part of the Appalachian range and are full of waterfalls, lakes, and ski mountains. They are a perfect place to escape for families or couples. The White Mountains are among the best places to experience a good New England autumn. Here is a list of my favorite New Hampshire hikes.
• If you don’t have much time for your road trip, consider this 4-Day New Hampshire fall road trip.
• Lincoln, one of our yearly haunts, is surrounded by great hiking, skiing, and many family activities.
• North Conway – Full of shopping, North Conway is a perfect family town oozing New England charm and near Santa’s Village and Storyland amusement parks.
• Skiing! Although you can ski in Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire are where most New Englanders head to ski. We love to ski; even Rhode Island has a tiny ski hill.

One of my favorites, Vermont highlights its artists and locally grown food and is a ski destination. It is the most upscale of the mountainous New England states.

• Vermont is an outdoor lover’s paradise. We often go to tennis camp at Sugarbush, where there is also skiing.
• Ben and Jerry’s Factory – Ice cream is one of my favorite foods, and it is so worth a visit to this factory tour, which includes tastings at the end.
• Visit the ridiculously charming mountain town of Woodstock , where you can shop, eat, and do any outdoor activities.
• Learn all about the local arts scene in Quechee . Read about a weekend in Woodstock and Quechee .
• Read more about exploring Vermont in A Family Road Trip from Boston to Montreal .

Maine is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and Mainers are a rugged breed. Although the coast is relatively populated, there is plenty of untouched wilderness in this state, which covers half of the landmass of New England.

• Maine’s western mountains are a place of supreme peace, not overly populated, and full of glorious wilderness.
• Acadia National Park in Northern Maine is one of the US’ prettiest parks, with wooded forests along Maine’s long coastline. Although it is a long drive to get to, it is a must-see! Please read  about my visit to Acadia National Park.
• The coastal town of Portland is close to Boston and has an incredible food scene, lighthouses, and plenty of coastal outdoor activities. Read 47 Fabulous Things to Do in Portland.
• While you are in Portland you can take a day trip to Peak Island and bike around the island.

When to Visit New England?

There are good reasons to explore New England in its distinct seasons.

Summer in New England

If you love the outdoors, summer will allow you to take advantage of all the beaches, lakes, and waterfalls New England offers. Of course, with such perfection can come crowds. If you want to visit our islands, this is an ideal time to visit.

Fall in New England

Although the waters will be too cold to enjoy, there is nowhere in the world with better autumn colors than New England, especially in the northern states. It is the main reason people know about New England and visit. The farther north you travel, the more vibrant the colors are generally. It is tricky to know when the leaves will change, so you may have to change your itinerary to chase the leaves when you come, as they are only in peak for about a week, and the time varies by year.

Spring in New England

This shoulder season has the fewest crowds and the joy of spring flowers and bright green leaves. You won’t be able to lay on the beach, but you can usually still take a bike ride or hike. We may still get snow in spring, and some places won’t be open until after Memorial Day.

Winter in New England

New England epitomizes Christmas, so it is an ideal place to feel winter. Our winters are mild enough that although there is enough snow in our mountains, it is generally warm enough to enjoy skiing or any winter sport. And, of course, enjoy a hot chocolate by the fire in our cute mountain bed and breakfasts.

This area of the US is one of the best. I hope this article inspires you to plan a trip here. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or ideas of places that you think I missed.

Continue your planning with my New England Bucket List.

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3 thoughts on “A Local’s Guide to New England: Traveling New England, USA”

We were lucky enough to visit this area and see all the beautiful foliage a few years ago. I enjoyed reading your road trip guide and seeing all your lovely photos. Such an incredible area!!

New England is such a stunning part of the country, especially in the fall. It’s hard to find the words to adequately describe its beauty or condense the views into photos. How lucky you are to live here!

Thanks a ton for sharing these awesome safety tips! Your post is like a travel buddy, guiding us through the must-knows for a safe adventure. I love how you make things simple, highlighting the prep and being aware of our surroundings – things we might forget in the excitement!

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60 Awesome Things to Do in New England with Kids

• Latest Posts

• 21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024) - February 26, 2024
• 15 Wonderful Weekend Getaways in Maine (2024) - February 3, 2024
• 33 Best Beach Towns in New England to Visit in 2024 🌊 - January 28, 2024

Are you planning a trip to New England with the fam? Then you are in luck because there are so many fun things to do with kids in New England, you just need to know where to look! 

Organized by state, this list will point you in the right direction for the top things to do in New England with kids. Whether you’re looking to visit in summer , spring , fall , or winter , we’ve got you covered to make your travel planning all the easier!

Table of Contents

Things to Do in New England with Kids – Maine

Head to Acadia National Park

With plenty of hiking options, beaches for exploring, cute campgrounds, and great cabin , vacation rental , and hotel options at and near Acadia, Acadia National Park makes a perfect thing to do in New England with kids. No matter where you stay, there’s plenty to do at Acadia and Bar Harbor to keep everyone in the family happy!

Play at Old Orchard Beach

Affectionately referred to as OOB and home to Palace Playland , the last beachfront amusement park in New England, you’ll find rides, attractions, and a 20,000 sq ft+ arcade with vintage and modern arcade games that will appeal to everyone in the family. The 7 miles of soft, sandy beach to play on isn’t bad either! 

Look for Puffins

Check out this Puffins cruise guide to pick the one that’s right for your family! Be sure to dress in layers because it’s going to be colder out on the water; that summer sun in Maine will still burn fragile skin easily, so be sure to slather up the kiddos with sunscreen before you go looking for these adorable sea creatures!

Head to Moosehead Lake 

Clocking in at 74,890 acres, Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it! Go canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming or fishing on the lake, and on land, hike , or take an ATV tour. There’s something for everyone at Moosehead Lake!

Say Hi to Paul Bunyan in Bangor

The birthplace of legendary folk hero Paul Bunyan , whose birth certificate is hung on display in City Hall, you’ll find the largest statue of him known in the world, standing 31 feet high and weighing a whopping 3,700 pounds! Bangor has plenty of fun for the whole family ; peek in at Stephen King’s estate while in his neck of the woods!

Go on a Moose Tour

You are most likely to see moose in Maine from May through July, but there are sightings all year long and caution is always urged while driving in moose-heavy territory as these beasts will win in a fight against your car every single time. Check out this guide for more tips on where and when to see moose in Maine !

Have Fall Fun

Maine is a fantastic fall foliage destination and a kid paradise for fall fun! Kids love going to pick their own apples at an apple orchard, visiting a pumpkin patch to find their perfect jack-o-lantern, and getting lost in a corn maze together for an hour or 3! When it comes to old-fashioned fall family fun, Maine has it in spades!

Go on a History Tour

Maine has a lot of neat historical attractions throughout the state, like the Shaker Village near Gloucester, the Wadsworth-Longfellow House in Portland, and the Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Brunswick. Plan to stay in Portland for a while for the fun things to do , great restaurants, and beaches and lighthouses to see ! 

Visit the Boot

This must-visit tourist attraction is located at L.L. Bean’s flagship store and is on every self-respecting Maine bucket list . Everyone will want plenty of photos of them standing beside this giant 16-foot tall boot! There’s plenty more to do and see in Freeport, too, especially if you visit during the Christmas season ! 

Visit Scarborough Beach State Park

All around the state, Maine has some pretty cool state parks that your kiddos will love! Check out Scarborough Beach State Park , a very family-friendly beach state park with convenient amenities like restrooms, changing rooms, and seasonal lifeguards. The water here is pretty warm by Maine standards, too, with temps that typically stay in the high 60s throughout July and August! 

Things to Do in New England with Kids – Massachusetts

Explore the Boston Children’s Museum

The Boston Children’s Museum is just one of many awesome things to with kids in Boston ! Boston is home to so many great museums and walking tours ; older children especially love walking the Boston Freedom Trail , where they get to see Revolutionary history come alive. With so many fantastic restaurants and places to stay, Boston is an excellent New England vacation spot!

See Witchy History in Salem

Geared more towards older kids, Salem has a ton of spooky, Halloween-type stuff happening in October like ghost tours and visiting the most haunted places in town , but checking out the sites where Hocus Pocus was filmed is fun any time of year! Salem has great hotel and vacation rental options, too.

Enjoy Fall Festivities

Leaf peepers come from far and wide to visit the spots with the most fantastic fall foliage , but the real fall family fun is found at pumpkin patches with hayrides and petting zoos, corn mazes with scavenger hunts, and beautiful pick your own apple orchards where you can find New England fall staples like apple cider donuts… yum! 

Go for a Whale Watching Cruise

April to mid-autumn is when Minke, Humpback, Pilot, Right, and Finback whales can be found off of Massachusetts’ coast. Use this guide to the top-rated whale watching tours in Massachusetts to plan your trip! Bring plenty of sunscreen for the kiddos and prepare for the temperature out on the boat to be significantly cooler than it was on land, so bring a jacket!

Go Back in Time at The Hancock Shaker Village

The Hancock Shaker Village is a 750-acre immersive experience that shows what this Shaker Village was like in 19th century Massachusetts. There’s the Hancock Shaker Village Museum , nature trails, and The Discovery Barn, where kids can participate in hands-on Shaker activities, like weaving on a child-size loom, spinning wool, building furniture, and even milking a cow! 

Take to the Cape

Cape Cod isn’t just an ideal vacation destination for adults, it’s also full of fun things to do with kids! There are amazing beaches to visit, beautiful nature preserves and hiking trails , a fantastic restaurant scene, and great spots for a sweet treat, too! Take the family on a whale-watching tour and then settle into one of these lovely vacation rentals or hotels found on the Cape for a good nights sleep!

Tour Halibut Point State Park

Massachusetts has some great state parks just waiting for you and the kids to explore! There’s Halibut Point State Park , with fantastic hiking and spectacular coastal scenery. Plus, it’s in beautiful Rockport , a must-visit MA destination; be sure to sample fresh-caught seafood at Rockport restaurants before you leave!

Watch History Come Alive in Plymouth

Plymouth has must-see historical sites like the National Monument to the Forefathers , the still-functioning Plimoth Grist Mill , and of course, Plymouth Rock . You can also tour the Mayflower II , the actual scale replica of the ship that carried the Pilgrims across the sea in 1620! Don’t skip the living history museum Plimoth Plantation ; the Wampanoag Homesite is staffed by Native People from Wampanoag and other Native Nations that dress and model the Native experience of that period of time.

Play in the Berkshires

For outdoorsy New England kids’ activities, the Berkshires has fantastic hiking options , zip-lining , family float rafting trips , skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing , and more, so there’s outdoor fun all year round! With cute little towns like Stockbridge , Lenox, Great Barrington, Pittsfield, North Adams , and more, there’s always plenty of family fun to be had.

Go Wild at the Zoo

With several aquariums, zoos, and wildlife centers around the state, there are plenty of choices! There’s Animal Adventures Family Zoo and Rescue Center in Bolton, Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, Franklin Park Zoo and The New England Aquarium in Boston, Stone Zoo in Stoneham, Southwick Zoo in Mendon, the Maria Mitchell Aquarium in Nantucket, and more!

Things to Do in New England with Kids – Connecticut

Go on a Lighthouse Tour

Coastal Connecticut has so many lovely lighthouses to see , make it a point to tour as many as you can! Kids will absolutely love visiting some of Connecticut’s best beaches along the way, then head out on a lighthouse boat tour to see the view from the water!

Visit Mark Twain House and Museum

Best suited for older kids, a visit to the Mark Twain House and Museum in Hartford is a must for all literary lovers in the family! Samuel Clemens wrote under the pen name Mark Twain while living on these grounds from 1874 to 1891. Guided tours are available!

Dinosaur State Park

Connecticut has many awesome state parks, but a must-visit for any family with kids of any age is the Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill! With a 200-million-year-old fossil trackway, arboretum , interactive exhibit center , picnic areas, and nature trails , Dinosaur State Park is sure to be a hit with the kiddos and the adults alike!

Ride on the Bushnell Park Carousel

This beautiful vintage 1914 carousel has been delighting kids and adults alike for well over a hundred years now! Hand-carved wooden horses spin riders round and round on the weekends for only $2 a ride, and right behind it is the playground, with features that mimic local landmarks!

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Head out to one of Connecticut’s zoos, wildlife centers, or aquariums during your New England trip! Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport is a traditional zoo, and Action Wildlife Foundation in Goshen is a petting zoo, museum, and exploration center. The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk and the Mystic Aquarium in Mystic are both well worth a visit, but if you’re in the Greenwich area for Christmas, kids will absolutely adore the Reindeer Festival and the meet and greet with these creatures!

Enjoy Connecticut Fall Fun

Connecticut is beautiful during the fall and has all those quintessential fall family fun activities that make the season so fun! Take your pick from these Connecticut corn mazes, pumpkin patches , and pick your own apple orchards ; is there any better way to get the whole family out to see the beautiful fall colors?

Play at Lake Compounce

Lake Compounce at Bristol has been in operation since 1846, and it is still one of Connecticut’s favorite summer playgrounds! In addition to the dozens of rides, it is also New England’s largest water park, so be sure to bring the sunscreen before you let the kiddos loose at this fantastic amusement park!

Head to Stamford Museum and Nature Center

118 acres of fun await you and your kiddos at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center ! Visit Heckscher Farm’s animals, barns, and maple sugar house before turning your eyes to the sky at the Planetarium and Stamford Observatory . Don’t forget to swing by the gorgeous Bendel Mansion before you leave!

Visit Gillette Castle 

Both a state park and historic site, Gillette Castle is always a hit for kids and adults alike. Built in 1914 as a private estate, it sits tucked into 184-acres of gorgeous Connecticut woodlands, and a tour of this castle-like mansion is sure to thrill everyone in the family!

See B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill

B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill in Mystic is the last steam-powered cider mill still in use in the US today, and you can watch them pressing fresh apples for their ever-popular apple cider goodies. On the weekends they offer hard cider tastings and fresh kettle corn, but no one should leave the cider mill without some cider donuts to go!

Things to Do in New England with Kids – Rhode Island

Explore the Night Sky

Head to the Frosty Drew Observatory and Science Center on a clear Friday night at sunset to get a great glimpse up at the heavens! Best suited for older kiddos, the observatory and science center suggests applying plenty of bug spray, as its somewhat remote, rural location means you and your family might be a sought-after snack for the mosquitoes! 

Have Fun at Adventureland Family Fun Park

Adventureland Family Fun Park in Narragansett has been offering Rhode Island families a great place to have fun since 1985! Kids will love riding the Go Karts and Bumper Boats, jumping on the Extreme Big Air Jumper, going ‘round on the Carousel, and more during your fun day out at Adventureland!

Experience the Cliff Walk

Newport’s famous Cliff Walk is not suited for strollers or toddlers, but older kids love it! The 3.5-mile walk offers fantastic views of both the sea and the cliff-side mansions, so there’s always something to see. Most of the walk is fairly straightforward, but some sections involve passing very close to significant drops and a bit of scrambling on rocky shoreline. 

Explore Providence’s Waterways

A fun way to explore Rhode Island’s capital city, Providence Kayak provides rentals of single and tandem kayaks for ages 3 and up! Kids 12 and up can ride in their own single kayak, too; especially popular during the heat of the summer, cool off the family in Providence’s waterways!

Head to Yawgoo Valley

Ski and snow tubing area in the winter and water park in the summer, Yawgoo Valley is fun any time of year! Whether your kids are flying down the hills in their snow tube during the winter or swimming, splashing, and sliding through the waterpark in the summer, Yawgoo Valley is always sure to please!

Explore Providence Children’s Museum

Providence Children’s Museum is an absolute must-visit if you’re in the Providence area with younger kids! On the smaller side, this children’s museum is a perfect pit stop on a rainy day for the kiddos; the water table room is always a hit!

Hang at the Beach

What better way to spend a day in the Ocean State than to hang at the beach? Rhode Island has fantastic beaches, and when it comes to things to do in coastal New England with kids, a beach day is always at the top of the list! 

Enjoy Autumn Activities

Rhode Island sees some fantastic fall foliage , and is home to some great family pumpkin patches , corn mazes, and pick your own apple orchards ! When it comes to things to do in New England with kids in fall, you have oh so many choices!

Visit Roger Williams Park and Zoo

Providence’s Roger Williams Park is 435 acres of trails, playgrounds, a historic carousel, and even a zoo https://www.rwpzoo.org/ ! There’s also the Botanical Center (with a gorgeous rose maze!) and the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium , so Roger Williams Park is a must-do if you’re in Providence. Kids absolutely adore riding on the jumbo swan paddleboats , too!

Go on a Seal Tour

Seals love the cold weather so if you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in winter and early spring, take a Seal Trip Cruise with Fish’n Tales Adventures in Wickford; the whole family will love seeing these adorable marine animals. Plus, kids under 3 are free! 

Things to Do in New England with Kids – Vermont

Stroll with the Heifers in Brattleboro

If you’re going to be in the Brattleboro area in late spring, you absolutely have to check out this adorable agro-tourism event ! Strolling with the garland-adorned heifers is essentially a much cuter, much safer event than Spains running with the bulls, and this family-friendly event is sure to be an activity your kids remember their whole lives!

Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

The original Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury is a fun place to visit for kids and their adults! Tour the factory and see how the ice cream is made, and don’t forget to visit the Flavor Graveyard to see where the flavors of yesteryear have gone off to!

Hit the Slopes

Vermont is a fantastic spot for a fun family winter vacation! With several amazing Vermont ski resorts to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot for you and yours to go and play in the snow! PS, Jay Peak has an indoor water park , ice skating rink, and an adventure center for the kids!

Visit the Trapp Family Lodge

Run by the Van Trapp family of Sound of Music fame, the Trapp Family Lodge brings “A little of Austria” to Vermont family fun things to do! There’s hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh riding, golf, arts and crafts, guided nature walks, maple sugaring tours, swimming, and more, including fun events like Campfire and S’mores Nights!

Explore ECHO Leahy Science Center

The whole family will enjoy ECHO aquarium and science center and exploring its 100+ interactive exhibits! Say hi to the fish, reptiles, and amphibians that call ECHO home and learn all about how this science center and aquarium is promoting sound stewardship of the natural world for generations to come! 

Take a Hike!

Vermont is a gorgeous state, with fantastic hiking options , breathtaking waterfalls , lovely lakes , and some very cozy cabins and vacation rentals . Everyone in the family will love getting out to explore the natural beauty of the Green Mountain State!

Go on a Sugar House Tour

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks is just one of many across the state that offer tours of their sugar house operations, but in addition to the tours and tastings, Morse Farm also offers informational multimedia displays, a nature trail, a Vermont farm life museum, and a country store to visit, too! 

Visit Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home

Hildene is the home and gardens of the only Lincoln son to make it to adulthood and is now a gorgeous historic museum, with several sights to see and trails to walk; kids will especially enjoy visiting Sunbean, the restored 1903 wooden Pullman palace car, and the working farm and all of its animals! 

Vermont sees a lot of tourist action in fall, when leaf peepers come from all around the country to enjoy the fantastic fall foliage of Vermont , but there’s more than just the color show happening then, too! Take the kids apple picking , pumpkin patching , and corn mazing, and keep your eyes peeled for all the cute Vermont fall festivals that happen every year! 

Stay at Fat Sheep Farm

Fat Sheep Farm offers a unique vacation experience by letting you stay at their lovely working sheep farm! The kids will love helping collect chicken eggs, petting the sheep, playing on the natural playground, and the whole family will love the experience of slowing down together at a real, working Vermont farm!

Things to Do in New England with Kids – New Hampshire

Ride on the Conway Scenic Railroad

One of the best ways to get a healthy helping of New Hampshire’s spectacular scenery, the Conway Scenic Railroad is a historic railroad line that offers a variety of rides to choose from! For small children, the Conway Valley Train is recommended as the trip is less than an hour. Choo choo!!!

Play at Santa’s Village

Did you know you could find Santa’s Village in Jefferson, NH? You most certainly can, and this Christmas-themed amusement park has all kinds of cute Christmas-themed rides and games for the kiddos, plus just up the road is Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa . Take the kids to Santa’s Village, stay overnight at one of the best places to stay in NH… something for everyone!

Ride the Alpine Slide at Attitash

When Attitash isn’t covered in snow being one of the best ski resorts in NH, it offers the longest alpine slide in North America ! Ages 3 and up will have a blast zipping down the hill under the summer sun!

Explore Franconia Notch State Park

One of New Hampshire’s fantastic state parks , a visit to Franconia Notch State Park is sure to be a hit for the whole family! The Flume Gorge boardwalk loop is only 1.5 miles but has a major payoff with the stunning scenery found within the granite gorge. 

Step into Story Land

Story Land is home to over 30 fairy-tale-themed, kid-friendly rides and attractions, making it the perfect outing for any family looking for things to do in New England with kids. As an added bonus, you’ll also find Living Shores Aquarium on the grounds, with exhibits, tide pools, and touch tanks!

See Hands-On History in Portsmouth

Portsmouth’s Strawbery Banke Museum is an incredible opportunity to have an awesome, immersive learning experience. In addition to their many annual events (including their can’t-miss Candlelight Stroll at Christmas!), the Jones House at Strawbery Banke Museum houses a Discovery Center , where kids can participate in historic games and much more! 

Visit America’s Stonehenge

A unique kids activity in New England, America’s Stonehenge is a fantastic outdoor history museum. They also offer interactive archaeological activities and displays of Native American and early American tools and relics, too; don’t forget to say hi to the alpacas !

The best time to go on a moose tour in New Hampshire is between May and July, so if you are looking for fun New England kid activities during those months, consider going on a moose tour! There are several great moose tours in NH to choose from, just remember to drive carefully when you’re in moose country!

Explore the Polar Caves

The ultimate natural playground, the Polar Caves were formed during the last ice age, and kids (and adults!) of all ages love exploring these fantastic caves! Swing by the animal park to say hello to the deer and ducks on your way out, too!

Learn at the Seacoast Science Center

Located in Odiorne Point State Park, the Seacoast Science Center is the perfect New England kids activity for any kiddo who loves all things sea-related! Explore the tide pools, take a guided nature walk, or participate in any of the hands-on learning days that happen throughout the year. There’s always something fun happening at the Seacoast Science Center!

This region is full of fun things to do and see , finding kid’s activities in New England isn’t hard to do at all; whatever kind of New England family vacation you’re planning, you’ll find something on this list of things to do in New England with kids to appeal to you and yours!

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Where to Stay in New England for the 2024 Solar Eclipse

A handy guide to six hotels offering special packages for the cosmic event of the season.

From day trips to weekend getaways, our biweekly Traveler newsletter shows you the best of New England and beyond.

Photo by Getty Images

On April 8, 2024, the cosmos is throwing a daytime blackout party across North America, and New England is on the VIP list . For those keen to witness the sun taking a brief sabbatical with a little extra swagger, here are six hotels that offer the best seats in the house.

Spruce Peak Stowe, Vermont Totality: 100%

Perfectly positioned in the path of totality, Spruce Peak in Stowe is throwing a dance party to mark the occasion featuring DJ Logic; keyboardist Ray Paczkowski of the Trey Anastasio Band, guitarist Andy Greenberg of Runaway Gin; and guitarist and bandleader Marcus Rezak, plus special guest G. Love. Other activities on-site range from craft-making to complimentary tastings from local faves such as Runamok Maple, Cabot, and Ten Bends Beer. All guests of the Lodge at Spruce Peak will receive a welcome amenity upon check in, including eclipse safety glasses for the entire family and some delicious treats from the pastry team.

Spruce Peak, 7412 Mountain Road, Stowe, Vermont. Info here .

The Wentworth Jackson, NH Totality: 99.15%

At the Wentworth, resident astrologer Paul Winalski promises to guide guests through the astronomical spectacle with the wisdom of an interstellar navigator. Here, telescopes, firepits, and lunar-themed libations make for an unforgettable celestial celebration.

1 Carter Notch Rd., Jackson Village, New Hampshire. More info here .

Cape Arundel Inn & Resort Kennebunkport, Maine Totality: 95%

Only 90 minutes from Boston, Cape Arundel’s VIP eclipse-viewing package includes a 15 percent room discount and early check-in at 1 p.m., plus a bottle of wine, protective eyewear to watch the event safely, and a branded journal for any starlit-inspired musings or doodles. The solar-eclipse viewing party, which spans from 2 to 4 p.m., is the perfect setup for those who prefer their astronomical events served with a splash of ocean views.

208 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport, Maine. More info here .

The Lincoln Biddeford, Maine Totality: 96%

Think of Lincoln’s rooftop eclipse soiree as a block party, but instead of blocking the street, the moon is blocking the sun. Upon arrival, you’ll be outfitted with two pairs of eclipse viewing glasses and two drink tickets for themed cocktails that’ll have you seeing stars—in a good way. It’s all part of the hotel’s Moon Shadow Package, which also comes with early check-in so you can sit back, relax, and maybe even practice your moonwalk before the main event.

17 Lincoln St., Biddeford, Maine. More info here .

Hotel Vermont Burlington, VT Totality: 100%

Only hotel guests will have the opportunity celebrate the eclipse at this exclusive viewing party on the  the Van Ness Terrace. From 2 to 5 p.m.,   expect live music and  and festive drinks paying  homage to the sun’s brief retreat.

41 Cherry St., Burlington, Vermont. More info here .

Edson Hill Stowe, VT Totality: 100%

Given the lack of light pollution, this secluded inn, set amidst 38 stunning acres, offers prime eclipse viewing, with day turning to night for a magical 2 minutes and 48.1 seconds. Don’t miss the eclipse-themed Sun Drop Martini at Edson Hill’s restaurant, which changes from yellow to dark purple, echoing the eclipse’s dramatic shift. It’s the perfect sip for toasting to the darkness and the natural beauty of Vermont (wearing your gratis ISO-certified glasses, of course).

1500 Edson Hill Rd., Stowe, Vermont. More info here .

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Sunshine returns to Southern New England in time for the eclipse

by JASON DORIS, STORM TEAM 10

Overcast skies blanket the region on Sunday as the pesky area of low pressure slowly pinwheels further south and east. The breeze out of the north/northeast will continue to pull low-level moisture off the Atlantic this afternoon, keeping our opportunities for sunshine fairly limited and temperatures cooler than average for this time of year.

The cloud deck over the northeast starts to dissipate around sunset. This sets us up for a beautiful spring day on Monday!

Mostly sunny skies time up perfectly with the highly anticipated solar eclipse. Our view of this rare event will not be obscured by much, other than some thin high-level clouds late in the process.

Storm Team 10 wants to continue to stress that it will not be dark during the eclipse locally. If you want to experience darkness, you'll need to travel north.

Not only will there be pleasant conditions for the solar eclipse, but the forecast is solid for the Red Sox home opener on Tuesday! In Bean Town, temperatures are forecast to be cooler than the rest of the region, thanks to a back door cold front, but the Ocean State should be well into the 60s!

Rain returns to the 10-Day after Tuesday. The unsettled, wet weather will impact Southern New England through the end of the work week.

Enjoy the sunshine on Monday and Tuesday! Thanks for reading!

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Here are the best places in new england to see total solar eclipse.

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Most people in Massachusetts will be able to see a partial solar eclipse in just under a week, but there are places in New England where a total eclipse can be seen.

Northern areas of New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine will be the best places in New England to see the moon fully cover the sun on April 8, but tens of thousands of people have already made plans in those places to do just that.

"As a region, we're completely sold out across hotels and short-term rentals," said Jeff Lawson, director of Hello Burlington and vice president of tourism and marketing for the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Lawson said with rooms sold out, people making day trips from Boston and New York will make up the majority of eclipse watchers — which means their will be heavy traffic.

Burlington, Vermont, and other communities in northern New England are closing streets and setting up designated parking areas on the day of the eclipse.

"Definitely do not plan on pulling over on the side of the highway during the eclipse. You'll probably have some attention from the local police," Lawson said.

Officials in New Hampshire's North Country, from Pittsburg to Colebrook, are urging day trippers to stick to designated parking lots and roads. With a nor'easter bringing wintry weather Wednesday and Thursday and some already muddy fields, they are also warning drivers to stay on main roads.

Colebrook Town Manager Tim Stevens said the North Country shares only four tow trucks for the entire region.

"We definitely don't want people's fields ruined and we don't want people's cars stuck there for quite some time," Stevens said.

People who want to see the total solar eclipse from a mountain should stick to places that have a planned public viewing, such as Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont.

"Mountaintops may seem like great places to watch the eclipse (but) the backcountry is not a good place to be right now," Lawson said. "It can be very cold, the weather can change fast and it's covered in snow and ice at the moment."

New Hampshire officials also warned that people who are planning on making a day trip to see the total solar eclipse should take a vehicle with four-wheel drive.

Related stories:

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.