New England has so much to offer anyone looking for a northern vacation. There you can find an abundance of American history, beaches, lakes, mountains and oh so much to do!
10 Places to Visit in New England:
Boston, Massachusetts
There are at least 100 good reasons to visit Boston! Founded in 1630, it’s one of the oldest cities in the U.S. The Freedom Trail highlights the key role that Boston played in the American Revolution, which makes it one of the most important historical cities in the U.S. The 2.5-mile walking route of historic sites tells the story of the nation’s founding fathers. Sites along the trail include the site of the Boston Massacre, the home of Paul Revere, and the gorgeous historic Old North Church. If you get your fill of history and just want to have some fun then Boston is the place to be with professional sports teams, fabulous restaurants, and plenty of museums.
White Mountains, New Hampshire
For some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in New England, you will want to visit the White Mountains. Arethusa Falls is the second tallest waterfall in New Hampshire and the natural feature dubbed “The Basin”, consisting of a granite bowl fed by a waterfall. The areas around The Basin are popular spots for summer swimming in the ice-cold mountain water. It’s a beautiful location to spend the day hiking.
Newport, Rhode Island
This quaint New England city is set on Aquidneck Island. This picturesque yacht town is known for known for the Gilded Age mansions lining Bellevue Avenue. The most famous home is that of The Breakers, an 1895 mansion which we listed in our previous blog, 10 Famous US Homes You Can Tour. Newport is a well-known vacation spot for famous families and it’s easy to see why Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy chose Newport for their wedding. Newport is seriously postcard perfect.
Mount Desert Island, Maine
MDI, as the locals call it, is the second largest island on the U.S. eastern seaboard (behind Long Island). MDI is part of Acadia National Park and offers hiking trails, miles of bike trails, horseback riding and seasonal cross-country skiing and some snowmobiling. Mount Desert Island is the perfect getaway for quiet relaxation.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is perhaps the most desirable locations in New England. Despite being a hot spot for the wealthy summer homes, it’s a great place for us average vacationers as well. Read our previous post about things to do in Cape Cod. One day here and you’ll see why it is such a draw for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Green Mountains, Vermont
The Green Mountains are a must see for anyone wanting to visit Vermont. Some of the mountains are developed for skiing and other snow-related activities, while other parts are used for hiking in the summer. No matter when you visit you are sure to love the beauty that is Vermont.
Portland, Maine
Portland is known for its artsy community, as well as its easy way of life. It’s a genuine community where people still ride bikes and store owners know their customers by name. The culinary scene is just as vibrant as its community. You won’t feel like a guest in this sweet town, you’ll feel like you’re home.
Berkshire, Massachusetts
The Berkshires is a rural region in the mountains of western Massachusetts dotted with villages and towns. A popular vacation destination, it’s known for outdoor activities, fall foliage–viewing, a farm-to-table food scene, and thriving arts institutions. Renowned annual festivals include the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s residency at Lenox’s Tanglewood Music Center
Litchfield Hills, Connecticut
This little town looks like the perfect town for a movie set and offers quaint bed and breakfasts and country inns. Antique shopping, pristine lakes, and relaxing beaches round out this fantastic little town.
Lakes Region, New Hampshire
This area of New Hampshire is home to Lake Winnipesaukee. Your vacation here will be filled with time at the beach, boat tours, cruises, golfing, water sports, skiing and other snow sports, music and so much more.
Where do you think that you and your family will head when visiting New England?
