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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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July in New England: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

A Guide to Weather, Events and the Best Things to Do in July

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The heat is on in July in New England! It's the perfect month to head to one of New England's splendid beaches. Favorites include the Narragansett Town Beach in Narragansett, Rhode Island ; Maine's Old Orchard Beach ; and Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts' unique Singing Beach , where the sand squeaks beneath your feet.

The week surrounding the 4th of July is one of the busiest tourism times of the year in New England, so lodgings can be scarce, with rates at a premium. Fireworks displays are held on the 4th and beyond, with several of the largest displays happening after the holiday.

While coastal areas like Cape Cod are crowded, you'll find your best deals inland, particularly at ski resort properties, which try to attract out-of-season visitors with summertime activities and discounted rates. Mountain destinations have the advantage of staying cooler during July, so if you're not a fan of the heat, consider this alternative.

New England Weather in July

New England's average temperatures in July hover in the mid-80s Fahrenheit, with lows dipping in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (and occasionally the 50s, depending on how far north you go).

Average July Temperatures

• Hartford, Connecticut: 65 / 84 F (19 / 29 C)
• Providence, Rhode Island: 64 / 83 F (18 / 28 C)
• Boston, Massachusetts: 65 / 82 F (18 / 28 C)
• Nantucket, Massachusetts: 62 / 75 F (17 / 24 C)
• Killington, Vermont: 55 / 76 F (13 / 24 C)
• North Conway, New Hampshire: 57 / 80 F (14 / 27 C)
• Portland, Maine: 59 / 79 F (15 / 26 C)

New England's weather is notoriously volatile, and that doesn't change just because it's summertime. The sun cranks out rays, and the humidity can be sticky (be sure to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated), and thunderstorms can pop up, leaving the air refreshed and cool and chasing vacationers away from beaches and pools.

What to Pack

Be prepared for a variety of summer weather if you're visiting New England in July. Most days, you'll don shorts and a tank top or T-shirt for outdoor activities. Indoors? Air conditioning can make shopping malls and restaurants feel downright chilly, so it's never a bad idea to have a light jacket or wrap with you. At night, temps do cool, so pack jeans or long pants and a sweatshirt just in case. Covering up helps to protect against ticks and other biting insects, too. Sneakers are ideal footwear for sightseeing; hiking boots are better for the woods. And flip-flops make sense for the beach, but don't count on them to take you everywhere you'll want to go.

July Events in New England

Celebrate the 4th of July in true patriotic style! And that's just the beginning. July features fun-filled festivals and events all month long.

• July 1-4: America's Oldest Fourth of July Celebration in Bristol, Rhode Island
• July 1-7: Boston Harborfest in Boston, Massachusetts
• July 9-14: Brimfield Antique Show in Brimfield, Massachusetts
• July 11-14: Hillsboro Fest and Fair in Hillsboro, New Hampshire
• July 12-14: Moxie Festival in Lisbon, Maine
• July 13: Riverfront Food Truck Festival and Fireworks in Hartford, Connecticut
• July 14-21: Hall of Fame Open at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, Rhode Island
• July 19-20: Vermont Brewers Festival in Burlington, Vermont
• July 19-21: Yarmouth Clam Festival in Yarmouth, Maine
• July 20: WaterFire in Providence, Rhode Island
• July 26-28: International Sand Sculpting Festival in Revere, Massachusetts
• July 26-28: Lowell Folk Festival in Lowell, Massachusetts

Best Destinations for July in New England

School's out, and families flock to New England in July to combine fun in the sun with a side dish of education about the history, culture and ingenuity of our nation. Don't worry: Your kids probably won't even realize they're learning something!

• Pack up your crew and head to Boston by car, plane or train. This easy-to-walk city has plenty of places to cool off when you tire of visiting top attractions and walking the Freedom Trail . It's free to play in the random spray at Rings Fountain . After rumbling through the city, Boston Duck Tours plunge into the Charles River, and you'll feel a breeze as you enjoy the view from the water. Codzilla generates even higher-speed gusts. And a night game at Fenway Park is a perfect way to end the day: Here's how to get Red Sox tickets .
• Got preschoolers or little kids? Spend a memorable July vacation in the White Mountains of New Hampshire at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort , which is home to the Kahuna Laguna indoor water park. A stay here is guaranteed fun: Even if the weather doesn't cooperate! Take your little ones to Santa's Village or to Story Land . Drive to the top of Mount Washington (if you dare), or take the Cog Railway to the summit and explore the Extreme Mount Washington interactive museum. Cool off in New Hampshire's caves and waterpark waves . And get a jump start on back-to-school shopping at outlet stores , where you'll enjoy bonus savings because New Hampshire has no state sales tax!

July Travel Tips

• July is National Blueberry Month! Look for New England-grown blueberries at farm stands and farmers' markets. Maine's tiny wild blueberries are particularly delicious and in demand.
• The Tanglewood summer concert season is in full swing in July, and nothing beats spreading out a blanket and savoring a gourmet picnic before a symphony or chamber ensemble performance or a memorable evening with a popular artist like James Taylor.
• If you're heading north to Maine, check the schedule of free summer concerts at L.L. Bean's flagship store in Freeport.

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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, luxurious hotels , 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 (just remember your duck boots if you plan on braving the colder months).

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.

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9 Beautiful Road Trips for Exploring New England

Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, there’s a road trip (or two) for each season..

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View of Horsehead-Marbella, a historic house near Beavertail State Park.

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New England may be known for its autumn reds and yellows, but to us, there’s no bad time to cross the region by car. Officially consisting of the six states of Maine , Vermont , New Hampshire, Massachusetts , Connecticut , and Rhode Island , New England is filled with picturesque seaside towns, mountains, clear lakes, and yep, some of the best fall foliage around. To see the region’s most beautiful sites, head out on one of these great New England road trip itineraries.

1. Vermont Route 100

• Start: Heartwellville, Vermont
• End: Troy, Vermont
• Distance: 217 miles
• Recommended season: summer

At 217 miles long, the Scenic Route 100 Byway hugs the eastern edge of the Green Mountains and travels nearly the entire length of Vermont. (Most of Vermont’s ski resorts are located along the highway, so it can actually have fewer cars in the summer than in winter.) If cute old-school stores are your thing, be sure to stop at the Vermont Country Store in Weston—it’s been open since 1946 and offers free cheese and maple syrup samples.

Dramatic scenes like these are delightfully par for the course along Maine’s coast.

Courtesy of Stephen Crane/Unsplash

2. Maine State Route 9 East

• Start: Ogunquit, Maine
• End: Calais, Maine
• Distance: 263 miles

Much like California , Maine is also known for its stretch of Route 1, aka “the lobster trail.” This trip crawls along the coastline and passes through Ogunquit, Kennebunk, Portland, Rockport, and more until it hits Canada. Must-dos along the way: Eat at the Clam Shack , on the bridge between Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, snap a photo at Portland Head Light, and stop by Project Puffin Visitor Center in Rockland—especially fun with kids in tow.

Cape Cod is known for its appealing beaches and coastline.

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3. Old King’s Highway in Cape Cod

• Start: Sandwich, Massachusetts
• End: Provincetown, Massachusetts
• Distance: 60 miles

Route 6A is popular in summer, when visitors to the Massachusetts Cape begin their trip in Sandwich and follow the road east to Provincetown, passing cranberry bogs, salt marshes, historic homes, and some of the oldest villages in the United States. Get your lobster roll fix at places like Kate’s Seafood (Brewster) and Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar (Eastham). For overnights, head over to South Dennis and stay at the Sesuit Harbor House , originally built in 1735.

The Kancamagus Highway is known for being one of the top spots to see fall foliage.

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4. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

• Start: Conway, New Hampshire
• End: Lincoln, New Hampshire
• Distance: 35 miles
• Recommended season: fall

Curving for 35 miles on country roads through New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest, the Kancamagus Highway has earned its place on several “best of” road trip lists, thanks to its picturesque ponds, hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and hairpin turns. Colloquially known as the “Kanc,” the byway draws millions of visitors every year. With the highway’s plentiful hiking trails taking up daylight, spend the night in one of the six White Mountain National Forest campgrounds located on the byway.

This road trip passes through quaint towns like St. Johnsbury, Vermont.

Photo by Snehit Photo/Shutterstock

5. Connecticut River Byway

• Start: South Hadley, Massachusetts
• End: Pittsburg, New Hampshire
• Distance: 242 miles

Another way to reach New Hampshire’s White Mountains is to take the Connecticut River Byway , which is Vermont’s only designated National Byway. The route cuts from South Hadley, a little college town home to Seven Sisters school Mount Holyoke, straight up through Vermont to the top of Vermont and then just east to New Hampshire. Along the way, stop by some of Massachusetts’s historic district villages like Northfield and Montague Center, or take a few nature-led detours to Molly State Park near Brattleboro, Vermont. (The food co-op here is a good place for picnic fare.)

If you’re unable to do the whole route, no worries. In the words of Afar deputy editor Tim Chester : “Pick a stretch and you can’t go wrong—particularly in fall when the leafy backdrop is painted shades of red, orange, and yellow.”

End your road trip in Burlington, Vermont’s most populated (and delightfully walkable) city.

Photo by Julie Deshaies/Shutterstock

6. Burlington to Woodstock, Vermont via I-89 S

• Start: Burlington, Vermont
• End: Woodstock, Vermont
• Distance: 90 miles

While several road trips on this list go through Vermont, this road trip itinerary specifically focuses on the state’s delicious dishes . Starting in Burlington, road-trippers can visit the local farmers’ market for breakfast before continuing south on Route 89 to Stowe. Around here, try places like Long Trail Brewing Company and Hen of the Wood (dinner only). The drive concludes in Woodstock, where you can find salted goat’s milk caramels at Fat Toad Farm.

7. Mohawk Trail (Route 7), Massachusetts

• Start: Pittsfield, Massachusetts
• End: Greenfield, Massachusetts
• Distance: 63 miles

Massachusetts’s Berkshire Mountains and its famed 63-mile Mohawk Trail are the stuff of leaf-peeping legends . Starting in Pittsfield, take Route 7 north until hitting Williamstown, home to Williams College and art museum the Clark , and continue on Route 2 to Western Gateway Heritage State Park, Natural Bridge State Park, and MASS MoCA , among other attractions. Eventually, you’ll hit the Hoosac Range—where the views only keep getting better. For a stay along the way, consider Miraval Berkshires in Lenox .

Stowe is one of the East Coast’s top ski destinations.

Photo by FashionStock.com/Shutterstock

8. Skiers’ Paradise via Route 100, Vermont

• Start: Stowe, Vermont
• Distance: 80 miles
• Recommended season: winter

Come winter, heavy snow drifts mean good things for skiers in New England. Visit several ski resorts on this road trip—including Stowe Mountain Resort and Saskadena Six Ski Area —which starts in Stowe and finishes in Woodstock, Vermont. It’s 80 miles between the two towns on Vermont Route 100 (allow two hours) or 73 miles on the highway (allow an hour and 20 minutes); the slopes—and attractions—in each mean you’ll want to spread the trip out over a long weekend. Things not to miss in Stowe: the family-run Alchemist brewery, Stowe Maple Products sugarhouse, and the thin-crust pies at the aptly named Piecasso .

In Woodstock, be sure to carve out time for Richardson’s Tavern , Billings Farm & Museum , and F.H. Gillingham & Sons , a store that has been open for nearly 140 years.

The manicured gardens at Roseland Cottage are prettiest in spring.

Photo by Lee Snider Photo Images/Shutterstock

9. Quiet Connecticut via I-395 N

• Start: Norwich, Connecticut
• End: Woodstock, Connecticut
• Distance: 39 miles
• Recommended season: spring

If you’re a fan of quaint towns and farmsteads, this road trip from Norwich to Woodstock might be for you. (Fun fact: Woodstock has more dairy farms than anywhere else in the state.) The route, on I-395 N, clocks in at 39 miles, but you’ll want to slow down and take your time—yep, it’s that scenic. Do some bird-watching at Aicher Preserve or Border Woods Preserve , both of which come alive with greenery and flowers in spring. The manicured gardens will be in full bloom at Roseland Cottage in Woodstock, a pretty 1846 Gothic revival–style former summer home that’s a history museum. Bed down for the night at the Inn at Woodstock Hill , where you can enjoy Connecticut’s serenity near the small town of Putnam.

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on August 14, 2024, to include current information.

Road-Tripping New England: My Suggested Itinerary

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: The United States is made for road trips . With its bustling cities, rugged national parks, and delicious eats, the sheer size and diversity of this country never cease to amaze me.

I’ve road-tripped the USA five times, spending a cumulative year exploring its cities, towns, and parks. To me, a road trip is the best way to explore the US. By driving the back roads and getting out of the cities, you really get to see the diversity and natural beauty of the country.

One region in particular that I love to drive around is New England.

Having grown up in Boston and gone to college in Western Massachusetts, I’ve spent a lot of my life in this part of the country. I’ve also road tripped around the region.

During a recent summer, I explored parts of Maine , Cape Cod, and upstate New York that I had never seen before.

And yeah, I’m biased because I grew up here, but I really do think New England is one of the most special areas of the country. It offers delicious seafood, friendly and welcoming people, incredible natural beauty, charm, and plenty of history.

If you’re thinking of visiting, here’s a suggested road trip around New England to help you get a feel for the region:

Table of Contents

Days 1-3: Boston, MA

Days 4-5: portland, me, days 6-8: bar harbor, me, day 9: bangor, me, days 10-12: moosehead lake, me, days 13-14: mount washington, nh, days 15-17: burlington, vt, days 18-19: green mountain national forest, vt, days 20-22: the berkshires, ma, day 23: amherst, ma, day 24: back to boston, bonus destination: cape cod, ma.

These are some of my favorite things to do in Boston:

• Walk the Freedom Trail – This 2.5-mile (4km) route takes you through colonial Boston. Starting in the Boston Common and winding past Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, and Bunker Hill, this historical walk teaches you about life in colonial and revolutionary times. If you’d prefer a guided tour, Boston History Company runs daily tours for $31 USD that offer excellent insight into the area’s important past.
• See the Museum of Fine Arts – This museum has over 450,000 pieces of fine art, from the pre-Columbian era to Italian Impressionism. It’s one of the best collections in the country. Admission is $27 USD.
• Visit Bunker Hill Monument – The Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775 was one of the first major clashes of the Revolutionary War. While the redcoats won, the Americans wore British forces down more than was expected. The monument stands 221 feet tall; you can climb to the top to enjoy the view (it’s the best view of Boston).
• Lounge in Boston Common – This is the oldest city park in the US, dating to 1634. It was once used as communal pasture land by Puritan settlers (they also executed some “witches” here as well). Today, it’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and picnic.
• Visit Harvard – Harvard University is the first and oldest university in the country (founded in 1636, far predating the United States). The campus offers free one-hour tours through the grounds and buildings. Afterward, grab a coffee and people-watch in the alternative and artsy Harvard Square.
• Catch a game at Fenway Park – This is one of the oldest baseball parks in the country (it opened in 1912). Bostonians are die-hard Sox fans, so even if you don’t like baseball, go for the cultural experience. Tickets start around $29 USD for standing room or bleacher seats, and $39 USD for the grandstand. Guided tours of the stadium are offered year-round as well. There are various tour options, but the standard guided tour lasts 90 minutes and costs $25 USD per person.

For more suggestions on what to do in the city (and there’s plenty), check out my free guide to Boston .

Where to Stay

• HI Boston – This is my favorite hostel in the city. It’s clean, spacious, and social, and the staff are super friendly and helpful.

For more suggestions, here is my list of the best places to stay in Boston .  

• Visit Peaks Island – This small island is home to around a thousand people. Located just 20 minutes off the coast, it’s a laid-back place to eat, lounge, and check out the quaint shops. There’s also a small World War II museum here, as well as a neat umbrella cover museum (it’s more interesting than it sounds!).
• Try a Holy Donut – Holy Donuts are made from Maine potatoes (which sounds weird, but they are incredibly tasty), so they are at least somewhat healthier than your standard donut. There’s always a line, so try to get there early!
• See the lighthouses – There are several historic lighthouses worth seeing nearby, including the Portland Breakwater (which was designed to look like a Greek monument), Spring Point Ledge (which was built in 1897 and is open for tours on weekends), and Portland Head Light (which was built in 1791).
• Wander Victoria Mansion – This ornate mansion-turned-museum, built in 1860 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1971, boasts a brownstone exterior and elaborate interior furnishings. It’s incredibly lavish, shedding light on what life was like for the well-to-do in the late 19th century. Admission is $19.25 USD.

While you’re in Portland, be sure to check out some of the city’s best restaurants, including Duckfat (get the fries), Eventide Oyster Co. (best oysters in the city), and Bite into Maine (best lobster roll in the city). For drinks, head to Rising Tide Brewery.

• Black Elephant Hostel – This hostel has a cool, colorful interior and social atmosphere, and is perfectly located near lots of restaurants and shopping.

Moreover, on the way up from Portland, take Route 1 and stop for food along the way in any one of the numerous historic fishing towns. If you like oysters, stop at Glidden Point Oyster Farm.

Here are some things to see and do in and near Bar Harbor:

• Explore Acadia National Park – This gorgeous national park encompasses forests, lakes, and mountains, and covers a large swath of the Atlantic coastline. It’s incredibly popular in the summer for hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, and more. You could easily spend a couple of days just exploring the park. A 7-day vehicle pass is $35 USD and camping starts at $22 USD per night.
• Visit Abbe Museum – This museum showcases the area’s indigenous history and culture. It’s very informative and sheds important light on a history often overlooked. It’s part of the Smithsonian, so you know it’s going to be good! Admission is $10 USD.

Like the rest of Maine, Bar Harbor has some wonderful places to eat. My favorites were the Travelin Lobster (best lobster roll in the area), Havana (upscale dining), and Rosalie’s (delicious food all around).

• Bar Harbor Manor – This is a cozy hotel right outside Acadia National Park with lots of outdoor space to relax in, free Wi-Fi, and an indoor parlor with a fireplace.

My favorite places to eat are Fiddleheads (delicious food all around) and Judy’s (best diner breakfast). For a drink, head to Mason’s Brewing.

Where to Stay Bangor is a small town, so you’ll want to compare prices on Booking.com and Airbnb to see what best suits your budget.  

Spend a couple of days here relaxing away from the crowds, hiking the plethora of trails, spotting moose, or taking part in all the lake activities on offer.

For dinner or drinks, head to the Stress Free Moose Pub in Greenville.

• Leisure Life – This accommodation is basic, but it’s in a great location (in Greenville), and the staff are super helpful.

Some of the best day hikes up the mountain are Tuckerman Ravine Trail (4.2 miles, strenuous), Lion’s Head Trail (4.2 miles, strenuous), and Jewell Trail (5.2 miles, moderate).

Where to Stay You can stay in nearby Gorham or Littleton. Check Booking.com and Airbnb to see what best suits your budget.  

Some of my favorite things to do here are the following:

• Wander Church Street – This pedestrian-only thoroughfare is the heart of the city. Café-hop, browse the bookstores and other shops, and take in the slow pace of life.
• Get out on the water – Spend some time out on the water and soak up the sun. Boat rentals, cruises, paddle boarding, kayaking — you can do it all here. There are also several beaches you can lounge on, with North Beach being the most popular.
• Visit Ben & Jerry’s – This is where the global ice cream brand originated. If you have more time, you can visit the nearby factory in Waterbury and see the “ice cream graveyard,” where Ben & Jerry’s commemorates its obsolete flavors.
• Indulge in craft beer – Burlington is a craft beer mecca, home to over a dozen breweries. Go bar- or brewery-hopping to taste the best the city has to offer. Local favorites include Foam Brewers, Zero Gravity, Fiddlehead Brewing Company, and the Burlington Beer Company.

Where to Stay There are no hostels here, so compare prices on Booking.com and Airbnb to see what best suits your budget.  

Highlights include Thundering Falls (a 140-foot waterfall), the Long Trail (a 272-mile hike and the oldest long-distance trail in the country), and the panoramic view from the 4,000-foot Camel Hump summit.

Since it’s a national forest, camping here is free (unless signs advise otherwise).  

Here are some things to see and do:

• Hike Mount Greylock – Standing 3,491 feet tall and located in a state park encompassing over 12,000 acres, Mount Greylock is the highest peak in Massachusetts. There are several trails that lead to the summit (including a portion of the Appalachian Trail). The hike takes around 90 minutes, and the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking — you can see for miles!
• Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum – Norman Rockwell, the prolific American painter and illustrator, spent much of his life in Stockbridge. A museum was established there to showcase his life and works, highlighting the evolution and impact of his art. Admission is $20 USD.
• Explore Natural Bridge State Park – Located in North Adams, this park is home to a natural bridge of white marble (which is over 550 million years old) as well as an old marble quarry. There’s an easy trail around the bridge and quarry, and plenty of relaxing fields and meadows to picnic in. Parking is $20 USD for out-of-state residents.

Be sure to tour the Emily Dickinson Museum, which commemorates the poet (she was born in Amherst in 1830). The house where she was born and grew up, now converted into a museum, includes artwork, artifacts, clothing, and poetry from Dickinson’s life. There are often events and poetry readings here, so check the website to see what’s on during your visit. Guided tours last 60 minutes and cost $16 USD.

As for food, Antonio’s Pizza is a must (they have some really inventive toppings). I ate a lot of it during college! I’m also a big fan of Black Sheep for sandwiches and House of Teriyaki for Japanese food.

It’s just a short two-hour drive back to Boston, so feel free to stop along the way to stretch your legs. There are plenty of places to stop along the way or just do more things in Boston!  

Here are some things to see and do during your stay:

• Go whale watching – From April to October, you can see finback, minke, and humpback whales, as well as dolphins and seals. Tours cost around $67 USD.
• Hike or bike the National Seashore – Created in 1961 by JFK, this park spans over 43,000 acres. There are 11 hiking trails, as well as half a dozen cycling trials. All of them are well marked so it’s an easy way to stretch your legs and take in the beautiful landscape.
• Visit some lighthouses – There are dozens of picturesque lighthouses around Cape Cod, some of which are open to the public. Don’t miss Nauset, Nobska, and Highland lighthouses.

New England is one of the most beautiful parts of the United States. Its size makes it perfect for road trips, offering a nice mix of cities, small towns, and stunning natural beauty. It also has some of the best seafood in the country, lots of hiking and biking opportunities, and some of the friendliest people in the country. I’m proud to have grown up in this region and encourage you to explore my backyard!

Book Your Trip to the United States: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road, and I’m sure they will do the same for you.

Need an Affordable RV for Your Road Trip? RVshare lets you rent RVs from private individuals all around the country, saving you tons of money in the process. It’s like Airbnb for RVs.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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21 Family Vacations in New England for Every Season (2024)

• 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

Planning your next New England adventure with the fam? There are so many fantastic destinations around the region , but for family vacations in New England , these kid-friendly travel spots take the cake.

Whether you’re looking for family trips in New England that are historical and educational like Boston MA or Portland, Maine, or you just want kid-friendly New England vacations on the beach like Martha’s Vineyard or Cape Cod that are a little more laid back, there are options for just about every kind of trip.

And if you’re not sold on just one destination, you can always road trip New England together!

The list of New England family vacations below has been compiled from contributions from other New England writers as well as my own personal favorite family vacations.

Table of Contents

Family Vacations in New England for every Season

One awesome thing about New England family vacations is that you can find summer beach vacations, snowy mountain winter vacations, beautiful fall foliage destination s, and everything in between, so there’s something to see in every season.

I’ve included some of my favorite vacation spots in New England for every season, including contributions from other New England travelers on this list, too. Whatever season you’re visiting in, you’ll find something on this list that checks all the boxes for your next New England family vacation!

PS: check out this list of great things to do in New England with kids, too!

Vermont Family Vacations

1. stowe, vermont.

Stowe , in north-central Vermont 35 miles east of Burlington boasts a fabulous Green Mountains valley location with lots of great options for where to stay .

With its lush surroundings and countless outdoor activities, it is a family-friendly New England resort town offering far more than just its famed winter skiing.

Visit Stowe during the warmer late spring and summer months and you’ll find a haven of inspiration and adventure. Kids of all ages can connect to nature during a treetop adventure course or exhilarating mountain zipline tour. There’s also fantastic hiking all around the Stowe area.

How about one of the summer adventure camps for children between 3 and 14 years of age? What better way to create lasting memories and instill a lifelong passion for the great outdoors?

At the end of such an invigorating day relax at one of Stowe’s many outdoor concerts or marvel at special annual events such as the 4th of July Parade or Hot Air Balloon Festival. With all this energy consumed a visit to the nearby Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory will be a must!

-Contributed by Paul, The Two That Do

PS here are some of the best kid friendly hotels in Stowe, Vermont !

Editor’s Note: Stowe is one of my favorite family vacation spots in New England, too!

I have visited many times, but being able to take my son along for his first ever family vacation to Stowe was so incredibly special.

We stayed at Trapp Family Lodge and I highly recommend it. It was built and ran by the actual Trapp family that the Sound of Music is based on, and it’s a gorgeous property.

It’s a bit of a bucket list experience, especially for those of us with a love of musical theatre!

🎵 The hills are definitely alive with the Sound of Music in Stowe! 🎵

2. Burlington, Vermont

I lived in Burlington for several years as a young adult, and have had the pleasure of returning on family vacations with my son. It’s absolutely one of those New England vacation destinations that works for the whole family!

Church Street Marketplace is always the place to go, with cool shops, dining options, and buskers and other live entertainment.

Burlington has a very eclectic, hip energy about it, and there are two things that you will find great quality in great abundance: coffee and beer!

There are a ton of great coffee shops in Burlington and I can’t think of one that you would be disappointed by, but Brio Coffeeworks and Vivid Coffee are both fantastic options.

Burlington is also known for its great craft breweries, and most are kid friendly so you can enjoy a nice lunch and a delicious flight together.

We had a fantastic lunch at Burlington Beer Co not too long ago, definitely recommend!

The waterfront is another must visit spot in Burlington. Lake Champlain is gorgeous, and there are boat tours you can take to get out on the water, or just enjoy the scenery from the shore.

The ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain is on the waterfront as well, and this is a very popular thing to do with kids in Burlington!

We opted to stay at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain during our last visit, and it was great. The sunset pic I took above was actually taken out the window!

Burlington, Vermont family vacations are perfect for all ages, really, whether you’ve got a toddler in tow like we do or you’re traveling with teens.

I mean, this World’s Tallest Filing Cabinet in Burlington is very insta-tastic for a teen selfie, yes?

We really enjoyed staying at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain, it was very accommodating for our family vacation.

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

3. Woodstock, Vermont

I (and many, many others!) believe Woodstock to be Vermont’s cutest town, and let me tell you, it’s got plenty of competition!

Woodstock is one of the best family vacations Vermont has to offer, and it’s one of my personal favorites.

The very epitome of small town Vermont, there is picturesque scenery, a quaint walkable downtown, lots of lovely outdoor things to do, and tons of great farm to table dining options.

During one of our recent family vacations to Woodstock, Vermont, we explored the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in the neighboring village of Quechee.

It was a BLAST, we definitely recommend it for your next family trip to Woodstock. It was especially pretty with the spring flowers blooming.

There’s also Billings Farm & Museum, because who doesn’t love pastoral beauty and fuzzy farm animals?

One of my favorite places we’ve stayed in Woodstock is 506 on the River Inn, and it’s location on the river was so perfect for my little family.

Plus, they’ve got this great kids room inside and a little playground outside.

You can read more about our experience staying at 506 on the River Inn here!

There are a ton of great options for where to eat in Woodstock , as well, but some of our favorites are Mon Vert Cafe in Woodstock and Simon Pearce Restaurant in Quechee.

These are the falls you get to gaze at while dining at Simon Pearce!

We’ve stayed at a few places in Woodstock , but one of our definite favorites to date has been 506 on the River Inn. Hard to beat that view!

Family Vacations in Massachusetts

4. martha’s vineyard, massachusetts.

Martha’s Vineyard is a great family destination in New England that we know well. We have been coming to this island for more than a dozen years. In fact, we have visited The Vineyard before we had kids and always said we would bring our kids to the Vineyard for the summer.

Martha’s Vineyard is not as crowded as Cape Cod because it is harder to access. We really love the beaches and laid back island lifestyle. There are no strip malls or big chain stores. In fact, there’s no traffic lights on the entire island.

Many people cycle around the island and the Vineyard tends to have lots of multi-generational families  visiting because there is something for everyone to do both on the land and in the water, such as cycling, hiking, sailing and kayaking. Sports include fishing, golf, and tennis.

There are also great restaurants and shopping. You can get excellent seafood as well as a lot of other American food. My kids love doing their bicycle run into town to get ice cream.

On rainy days,  families can go bowling in the bowling alley in Oak Bluffs. My kids also like the Arcade in Oak Bluffs which they love and, in my opinion, is a money suck. There are also lots of organized summer activities that are perfect for kids such as sailing camp, pony camp and tennis camp.

There’s very little crime on the island because it’s so hard to get on and off the island. We really like letting the kids have some freedom to cycle to the beach or into town for a movie without worrying about traffic or other things.

-Contributed by Shobha, Martha’s Vineyard Tourist

Click here for family friendly Martha’s Vineyard places to stay !

5. Boston, Massachusetts

As the largest city in New England , beautiful, lively Boston is easily one of the best places to head on a family vacation in the region.

Kids will find plenty of New England family -friendly activities like watching the penguins being fed at the award-winning New England aquarium, spotting whales on a whale-watching cruise, taking a Duck tour, and exploring family -friendly Boston museums  like the Tea Party Ships & Museum and the Museum of Science.

Once the kids have enough of being inside, head to the Boston Public Garden to check out the Make Way for Ducklings Statue and the Swan boats. Right next door, you’ll find Boston Common and the kid-friendly Frog Pond Spray Pool to cool off in during the summer (if you’re visiting Boston in the winter, the pool becomes an ice-skating rink).

While you’re in the area, point out nearby Park Street Church, and the Massachusetts State House for a quick history lesson–both spots, along with the Boston Common itself, are stops on the Freedom trail .

-Contributed by Kate , Our Escape Clause

Click here to check out all the best Boston family friendly hotels !

Editor’s Note: Boston is an ideal vacation spot for family adventures of all kinds but especially excellent for those looking for a way to bring history to life for their kids!

Family trips to Boston are a blast. We’ve always loved walking the Freedom Trail, exploring the historic North End, making our way through the many, many museums, and of course, enjoying the plethora of dining options!

We recently had a Christmas Boston family vacation and let me tell you, it was simply divine. I highly recommend it!

6. Nantucket, Massachusetts

The windswept island of Nantucket seems designed for New England family holidays. At once at one with the salty breeze and sand dunes that smile back at Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket is smaller and with very, very few cars.

Here, people tend to walk or cycle, toasting ‘smores at twilight and making the most of the beaches by day. But there’s history and culture here, by the bucketful.

Nantucket’s architecture serves as a snapshot from another age. A time when whaling brought gold to this port and seamen risked their lives for bounty. When whaling depleted its own stock and ships grew too big to dock in Nantucket, all that business disappeared and the industrial revolution passed it by.

The result? Nantucket harbor looks much as it did in the 1700s: low roofs, gray shale, white lighthouses. But with all the creature comforts for a New England family vacation in the 2020s.

When it comes to  things to do in Nantucket , beyond the beach activities, hiking, cycling and staring at the stars, there is more. Top restaurants, the whaling museum, a coastal conservation area and local brewery, all on the one small island with a central cluster of boutique shops.

-Contributed by Abi , Inside the Travel Lab

PS Nantucket Hotel & Resort is a fantastic four-season, kid-friendly New England hotel!

7. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

If your family loves exploring the great outdoors on vacation, head to the Berkshires in Massachusetts! This New England family vacation destination is perfect for all kinds of outdoor fun like hiking, snow sports, splashing around at a lake, and so much more.

With beautiful hiking trails all around this gorgeous area of New England, there are hiking routes for every skill level; Stevens Glen is a fun kid-friendly one mile hike in West Stockbridge that’s great for little legs, and if you’d like a waterfall hike, check out Bash Bish Falls.

If you’re a family that loves to play in the snow, head to Jiminy Peak where you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even ride their 3600 foot Mountain Coaster!

Of course, there are plenty of other great Berkshires attractions , too, like the Norman Rockwell Museum, the Hancock Shaker Village, Tanglewood, and MASS MoCA.

There are so many cute shops and dining options to explore. Here are some cool Stockbridge MA places to check out:

Add in all the great restaurants and places to stay – including cool Berkshires cabins and historic hotels like Red Lion Inn, The Berkshires is a fantastic family getaway destination in New England!

PS the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriot is conveniently located in Great Barrington and offers free breakfast and an indoor pool!

8. Chatham, MA

One of our first family vacations with my son was to Chatham, located on the “elbow” of the Cape and one of the best coastal New England family vacation spots!

Cape Cod is a beautiful place for a summer New England family vacation, and the scenery in this part of the Cape is to die for. The vibe is quintessential Cape Cod, and what’s not to love about that?

My family loved exploring Lighthouse Beach and the Chatham Light. Lighthouses are always an essential sight in any New England beach town.

We enjoyed grabbing a bite to eat at Mac’s Fish n Lobster and a sweet treat from Short n Sweet Ice Cream.

As for where to stay, I highly recommend Captain’s House Inn. It was a perfect Cape Cod place to stay, and they were wonderfully accommodating for my little family with our infant in tow.

You can read more about our experience staying at the Captain’s House Inn in Chatham here!

9. Salem, Massachusetts

Okay, so I LOVE Salem. Like, absolutely adore this little MA town, and I’ve visited many times over the years.

It was especially fun to take my son for his first Salem experience. We’ve since visited a couple of times with him, and it’s just a blast to vacation as a family there.

Salem is one of those towns with a ton of history, which most of us know as the infamous variety, the Salem Witch Trials at the forefront.

Of course, they play this up a lot and their month long Haunted Happenings event in October each year is a definite must do for anyone who enjoys paranormal and witchy fun.

In addition to learning about Salem’s witchy history, there’s also lots of interesting nautical history and a ton of amazing shopping and dining places, too.

We’ve stayed at some very cool places in Salem, including The Salem Inn. It’s conveniently located and is historic in all the right ways… in fact, there’s even murmurings of hauntings in one of the buildings!

We didn’t experience any paranormal activity during our stay, but it is considered one of the most haunted places in Salem .

If you’re a Hocus Pocus fan, you’re going to definitely want to check out some of the filming sites around town !

There are plenty of great places to eat around Salem . I loved eating at the Hotel Salem’s rooftop restaurant and bar, and Turner’s Seafood is another can’t miss spot while in the area.

For us, Salem is always a good spot for New England family vacations. It’s one of our favorites!

Check here for kid friendly hotels in Salem, MA !

New Hampshire Family Vacations

10. the white mountains, new hampshire.

Nothing better than getting the whole family out into the mountains!

White Mountain National Forest is an amazing place for a New England family trip as there are loads of great kid-friendly trails to discover. Your kids can also become “junior rangers” and learn about the animals, the plants and how to respect and care for the environment.

In winter you and your family can take sleigh rides through the forest and visit Ice Castles . Ice castles are beautiful ice sculptures completely made by hand and it is a very unique New England family vacation thing to do.

In spring and summer, I can recommend visiting the cog railway. This little steam engine takes you all the way to the summit of Mt Washington and is a great activity for small kids.

If it is warm and you want to cool down, you and the kids can head to Whale Tales Waterpark after your hike.

-Contributed by Lieze , Glitter Rebel

Check out these North Conway family friendly hotels for great places to stay with kids.

Editor’s Note: I was able to take my son on a little White Mountains adventure recently and have to share how cool it was! We booked a Lumen Nature Retreat in North Woodstock and had an absolute blast glamping in the White Mountains.

We went in early autumn before “peak colors,” but it was still incredibly gorgeous.

There are a variety of different glamping cabin options to choose from, but I don’t think you’d go wrong with any because the actual property is beautiful beyond belief, and there are top notch glamping amenities like saunas and climate controlled luxury bathhouses.

Seriously, it was perfect!

You can read more about my experience glamping in the White Mountains here .

Otherwise, I’ve enjoyed many visits to the White Mountains over the years, including a spa vacation with my sister in Jackson, New Hampshire and a fantastic visit to the Ice Castles!

The Ice Castles should absolutely be included in any winter family vacation in New Hampshire. It’s just a very cool, unique bucket list type of experience!

The White Mountains should definitely be at the top of your list of places to go for family vacations in New England!

11. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

We all know that the NH mountains are a fun family vacation destination, but don’t forget about its quaint Seacoast! Portsmouth, New Hampshire vacations are a personal favorite.

In fact, we recently enjoyed a Christmas family trip to Portsmouth and it was so lovely. Strawbery Banke Museum is an outdoor living history museum that is a blast to visit anytime, but it is especially magic at Christmas time!

Vintage Christmas in Portsmouth is a beautiful blend of historic holiday traditions with modern fun, and I think it should be on everyone’s New England bucket list.

Ice skating on Puddle Dock Pond, anyone?

Portsmouth is full of tasty places to eat , but don’t forget they have a Friendly Toast! It’s always one of our favorite kid friendly places to eat on New England family vacations.

Check here for kid friendly hotels in Portsmouth, NH !

12. Lincoln, New Hampshire

New Hampshire is the perfect spot for a family vacation because it offers things to do for all ages. Lincoln, New Hampshire is a ski town nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains . It is the home to the ski resort at Loon Mountain but has something to offer in all four seasons.

Foliage in the White Mountains is world-class and you can even find covered bridges. There is ample hiking for any level . You can even find waterfalls, gorges, and caves to explore. It’s a fantastic spot for family trips in New England!

For the adventurous, there is ziplining. There are a few amusement parks nearby- Santa’s Village, Clarke’s Trading Post, and Storyland, as well as a few waterparks. It is one of those New England family vacation spots you will want to return to year after year.

-Contributed by Jamie , The Daily Adventures of Me

Check here for family friendly hotels in Lincoln !

Editor’s Note: I had a little biking adventure with my hubby in the White Mountains National Forest a few years back and it was a phenomenal way to get out in the woods and enjoy the NH fall foliage.

I think it would make an excellent New England family vacation idea for a family with older kids or teens!

New England Family Vacations in Maine

13. portland, maine.

One of my most favorite Maine family vacations that I’ve taken with my toddler, Portland was an absolute blast!

This cool coastal city is one of those places that has something for everyone – there’s maritime history, vibrant culture, a varied dining scene, and other cool attractions like the Portland Observatory and the Portland Head Light.

My toddler especially loved our trip to the Children’s Museum of Maine!

It was such a blast to explore all their great exhibits together. It’s perfect for the younger crowd, so if you’re on a Portland family vacation with little ones, it’s a definite must visit.

We stayed at The Francis, and while boutique hotels may not be the first thing we think of when we think of kid friendly places to stay, the Francis was excellent for us!

There are a ton of fantastic options for where to eat in Portland, but a few of our favorites are Hot Suppa, The Friendly Toast, Becky’s Diner, and The Great Lost Bear.

Check here for kid friendly hotels in Portland, Maine!

14. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park is a great New England place to go with kids.  There are plenty of fun hikes to do , many ending in stunning views of the surrounding islands.

The most popular hike is probably the very challenging Beehive, but a family-friendly version along the Bowl Trail takes the back – and safer and easier – route to the same summit.

You can swim at the chilly but beautiful Sand Beach or the warmer – perfect in summer – Echo Lake.

There are dozens of old carriage trails through the hills, and renting a bike and riding through the woods is a great way to experience them.  You can also take a ferry to the nearby Cranberry Islands, and explore the small islands, pebbly beaches and lobster huts.  Nothing beats relaxing at Jordan Pond and having popovers for afternoon tea.

There is also kayaking and even sailing on a small yacht for adventure-loving families. Acadia also has great campgrounds, and cabins , and Bar Harbor is full of great restaurants and places to stay during your New England family trip.

-Contributed by James Ian , Travel Collecting

Check here for kid friendly hotels near Bar Harbor & Acadia !

Editor’s Note: Bar Harbor/Acadia is one of our favorite New England vacation spots, too!

Bar Harbor is a blast, and there’s a ton to do there. There are whale watching tours, cute shops, excellent restaurants, and of course, Acadia National Park!

We did some hiking in Acadia and absolutely loved the views. Beehive Loop trail was a great hike but it’s definitely not for anyone with a fear of heights as there’s a portion where you’re just hiking up the face of the rock with metal rungs.

Bass Harbor Lighthouse is another must see in Acadia, and it’s just such a beautiful sight!

Bar Harbor and Acadia are fantastic options for anyone looking for a coastal Maine family vacation.

15. Kennebunkport, Maine

Maine family vacations to places like Kennebunkport are absolutely perfect for scratching that coastal New England itch!

Not only is the scenery of this beautiful seaside town lovely, but there are options galore for things to do and see.

We love shopping at Dock Square, hanging at Goose Rocks Beach, and recently, we even had a Christmas trip to Kennebunkport that involved a ride on their Christmas trolley!

Kennebunkport at Christmas was lovely, I definitely recommend it as an excellent family vacation for the holidays!

Check here for family friendly hotels in Kennebunkport !

Connecticut Family Vacations

16. mystic, connecticut.

The beautiful town of Mystic, Connecticut might have been famous by its brush with Hollywood, but there’s so much more to Mystic than just pizza!

Kids will love exploring the Mystic Seaport Museum, which is one of the most beautiful museums in the world since its actually a living museum comprised of village houses, buildings along the seaport, and even a historic ship!

You can also have them visit the Mystic Seaport Light, one of the most  beautiful lighthouses on the East Coast .  This one dates to the 1960s, and its design is based on the earlier Brant Point Light in Nantucket. 

Curious little minds will also love a visit to the Mystic Aquarium. Older children might enjoy walking through the town’s historic cemetery. 

Adults who can find a bit of downtime or travel with their own childcare can take a break and spend some time on the Connecticut Wine Trail for a romantic evening away from the kids. 

-Contributed by Stephanie, History Fan Girl

PS you can find some great family friendly Mystic hotels here !

Editor’s Note: Okay, Mystic is one of my favorite standby New England vacation spots! Coastal Connecticut is GORGEOUS and if you’re looking for seaside fun, Mystic is a fantastic choice.

You’ve got the beautiful Mystic River, a drawbridge that’s fun for kids and adults to watch operate, and great shopping, restaurants, and attractions.

Check out shops like Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream, Alice in the Village, and of course, Mystic Pizza!

My family and I especially love the Mystic Aquarium! Young kids, older kids, adults and all always have a blast making new marine friends.

Mystic is one of our classic go to family vacation spots in New England, for sure!

17. Lake Compounce in Bristol, Connecticut

If you’re planning a summer family vacation in New England, consider Lake Compounce in Bristol, New England’s largest water park and one of the oldest amusement parks in the region. Not only is there a ton of family fun to be had onsite, but just up the road is Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill.

This popular state park is always a huge hit with kids of all ages, with a 200 million-year-old fossil trackway, nature trails, an interactive exhibit center, and so much more, so be sure to plan at least one day there!

Bristol is also just a quick half hour drive to Hartford, with a ton of awesome things to see and do , like the Mark Twain House and Museum, the Bushnell Park Carousel, and a huge selection of great restaurants and places to stay: The Hilton in Hartford has an indoor pool, onsite restaurant, and is just a short 10 minute walk to Bushnell Park!

18. Milford, Connecticut

Home of the gorgeous Silver Sands State Park, Milford is an excellent option for beachy Connecticut family vacations! The sandy dunes and boardwalk at Silver Sands are perfect all throughout the year for enjoying coastal views.

Popular swimming beaches in Milford include Silver Sands and Walnut Beach, but remember, this is Connecticut we are talking about… there are going to be lots of rocks and seashells, so swim shoes are a necessity!

Otherwise, Milford is just a super cute New England town. There are awesome shops, places to eat, and everything is very coastal Connecticut.

If you’re traveling with older kids especially, be sure to check out Firehouse Gallery . It’s a small art gallery, but a very cool space.

Even if you’re visiting out of standard beach season, grab a cup of your favorite beverage at Walnut Beach Coffee House and then make your way down to the water. It’s a lovely way to explore this pretty stretch of shoreline!

Oh, and do you know Milford has an interesting claim to fame? They say they invented the warm lobster roll, and you should absolutely investigate this claim for yourself by visiting delicious seafood restaurants like The Lazy Lobster while in town.

As for where to stay in Milford goes, Hilton Garden Inn has an indoor pool!

Rhode Island Family Vacations

19. newport, rhode island.

A visit to the Classic Coast is one of the best family vacations New England has to offer, hands down! If you’re looking for a family trip that’s educational, historical, and absolutely gorgeous, Newport is an excellent choice.

Not only do you have the incredibly beautiful Newport mansions to tour to learn about how America’s early elite lived during the so called Gilded Age, you have all that spectacular coastal scenery to go along with it!

Just crossing over the Claiborne Pell into Newport is a sight like no other. It’s one of the most iconic bridges in coastal New England.

There are so many incredible historic things to see and do in Newport, like enjoying dinner at the White Horse Tavern, the oldest operating restaurant in the US and one of the oldest in the world!

There’s strolling around Bowen’s Wharf, walking the lovely Cliff Walk, enjoying delicious seafood dinners, oohing and aahing over the local lighthouses, and of course, enjoying the beach. Easton’s Beach or “First Beach” is a popular spot for beachy fun.

Newport is classic coastal New England at its finest. Seafood, lighthouses, beautiful bridges, what is there not to love?

There are several excellent hotels in Newport , but you can check out the best family friendly hotels in Newport RI here .

20. Providence, Rhode Island

Looking for something with a little more hustle and bustle than Newport? You’re going to want to check out Providence!

Rhode Island’s capitol is perfect for anyone looking for a fun filled New England vacation. There are so many cool things to see and do in Providence , like catching a show at the Providence Performing Arts Center, considered the “Jewel of Weybosset Street.”

The kids (and rest of the fam!) will absolutely love visiting the animals at the Roger Williams Park Zoo and playing on the onsite Carousel Village. Afterwards, there’s the nearby Museum of Natural History and Planetarium to scope out as well.

Providence is also home to Brown University & RISD, and taking a stroll around the Brown grounds and visiting the art gallery at RISD is an especially fun thing to do if you’ve got teens in your group.

In fact, if you’ve got anyone in the group into science fiction, they’re going to love how much fun H.P. Lovecraft merch & info they find around town! You’ll definitely need to swing by the Lovecraft Arts & Sciences Emporium.

There’s a unique art event that happens multiple times a year in PVD called Waterfire , and if you can line up your vacation with one of these spectacular river lightings, you’ll have a New England family vacation that everyone will remember for the rest of their lives.

Providence is a great foodie destination too, with lots of great restaurants. You’ll find excellent Italian food options in Federal Hill, and breweries and breakfast places all around Providence that offer something for everyone in the group.

All in all, Providence is the kind of family vacation that could work for just about any age group, but it’s an especially fun trip with older kids and teens.

Here are some great family friendly hotel options in Providence .

21. Westerly, Rhode Island

If you’re looking for New England vacations with beautiful beaches (although some don’t allow public parking, so watch for signs!) for swimming and relaxing, and a lovely downtown with great places to explore, Westerly could be just the ticket.

In fact, this is home to the village of Watch Hill , where Taylor Swift keeps her summer home! You can see it in the picture above!

There are lots of things to do in Westerly , including visiting the gorgeous Watch Hill Lighthouse , where you can enjoy both the pretty lighthouse and those stellar ocean views.

Westerly is definitely a prime summer vacation spot, so if you’re visiting during the cold weather months, be prepared for several shops and restaurants to be closed. Evie’s is a good spot to grab a bite and drink year round.

The entire town is absolutely gorgeous, so this is definitely one of those coastal eye candy vacation spots in New England!

Check here for family friendly places to stay in and near Westerly !

Final Thoughts: Family Friendly New England Vacations

Wherever you end up heading for your next New England family vacation, you’re sure to have a great time exploring and enjoying this beautiful region with the fam!

Read these next for more great travel ideas!

• Hidden Gems in New England: 10 Secret Places to Visit
• 25 Fantastic Day Trips in New England You’ll Want to Take ASAP
• 25 Best Hikes in New England: New England Hiking Options for Everyone

The 85 Best Things to Do in New England

We’ve filled up a travel bucket list covering 85 of the very best things to do in New England. How many have you seen, done, eaten, or experienced?

By Yankee Editors

Jul 25 2022

The Knife Edge Trail on Mount Katahdin.

Whether you’re planning a New England vacation or are a lifelong resident looking to brush up on your regional cred, here are 85 of the very best things to do in New England. How many have you seen, done, eaten, or experienced?

85 Best Things to Do in New England

1. see the sunrise at cadillac mountain.

To see the first rays of sun strike the United States, you can drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain in Maine, the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard, or you can climb it in the dark, flashlight in hand. Either way, the rising sun glowing on Frenchman Bay will be even cooler than you imagine.

2. Eat Like a Rhode Islander

From stuffies to clear chowder to cabinets to johnnycakes to pizza strips to Del’s Frozen Lemonade , little Rhode Island is big on local flavor. But why so many signature dishes—is this a culinary Napoleon complex? Chalk it up to two centuries of immigration fueled by the state’s once-thriving industrial economy. As groups mixed and married, their cooking did, too. Luckily for us, though perhaps not our waistlines, the state’s compact geography allows for sampling many of its delicacies in one well-planned afternoon.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

3. Visit a Candlepin Bowling Alley

With its small ball and skinny pins, candlepin bowling —invented in Worcester, Massachusetts, around 1880—fools newcomers into thinking it’s easier than its big-ball cousin. When they roll their first Half Worcester (a regrettable hit that “punches out” just one pin and the one behind it), they learn otherwise. For a maximum throwback vibe, visit the c. 1906 eight-lane alley in Shelburne Falls .

4. Get to the Top of Mount Washington

In 1632 it took Darby Field and two Abenaki guides 18 days from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to reach the top of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. These days the commute is considerably shorter. Five primary hiking trails lead to the top, while the vertiginous auto road offers thrills of its own. And don’t forget the Cog Railway , which still chugs up the second-steepest track in the world after more than 150 years. Regardless of how you get there, the views never fail to amaze.

5. Go on a Whale Watch

It’s been 45 years since a Provincetown, Massachusetts, boat captain named Al Avellar first took a group of school kids out to look for whales—a trip that would lay the foundation for both his new venture, Dolphin Fleet , and for East Coast whale-watching as a big tourism to-do. Today whale-watch cruises depart from every New England state except Vermont and Connecticut, with most steaming out to either Stellwagen Bank (MA) or Jeffreys Ledge (ME), feeding grounds that from mid-spring to mid-autumn see a parade of hungry behemoths including humpbacks, minkes, and the mighty finbacks, which can weigh up to 70 tons and measure as long as two schoolbuses parked end to end.

See More: Best Maine Whale-Watches and Boston Whale Watches

6. Stroll the ’Sconset Bluff Walk

Headed to Nantucket? Make time to seek out the ’Sconset Bluff Walk , a footpath that runs behind private homes and along the bluffs, offering views of both manicured backyards and wide-open ocean. Plus: There’s a lighthouse at the end.

7. Visit a Shaker Village

While their views on pacifism, gender equality, and the abolition of slavery once put the Shakers decades ahead of the mainstream, time eventually caught up with this Utopian religious sect. The last two Shakers on earth make their home in Sabbathday Lake, Maine, which has been preserved as a living history museum, as have the Shaker villages in Pittsfield, Massachusetts , and Canterbury, New Hampshire . To explore these austere but beautiful rural places, though, is to feel a sense of harmony that is very much alive.

8. Snap a Photo at Vermont’s Sleepy Hollow Farm

CURRENTLY CLOSED TO VISITORS

With its big barns, late-1700s farmhouse, and knack for catching the light, this property outside Woodstock, Vermont, is pure catnip for photographers. On a crisp fall morning, the narrow road to Sleepy Hollow Farm might be lined with as many as 20 cars, as pros and amateurs alike hunker down with their tripods. No matter. You’ll get your shot too, and the chance to see all those Instagram “likes” piling up.

9. Eat at Modern Diner

You can pass the time in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, marveling at the c. 1940 Sterling Streamliner that houses this, the first diner on the National Register of Historic Places.

See More: 15 Best Diners in New England

10. Check In at a New Hampshire Grand Hotel

Time was, trainloads of wealthy Bostonians and New Yorkers would arrive in New England each summer in search of fresh air and more than a little pampering. Of the castlelike getaways that sprang up to serve them, only a few remain, all in the Granite State. There’s the Mountain View Grand in Whitefield and New Castle’s Wentworth by the S ea , but the grandest of all is the Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods (today’s Omni Mount Washington Resort ). Step into its Great Hall, replete with soaring ceilings, Tiffany art glass, and crystal chandeliers, and you’ll immediately fall under the property’s turn-of-the-century spell.

11. Have a Movie Moment at Marshall Point Lighthouse

When the producers of the 1994 film Forrest Gump looked for the perfect spot for their titular hero to finish an epic cross-country run, they found it on the wooden ramp to this Port Clyde, Maine, lighthouse, which had been waiting for its Hollywood close-up since 1858.

12. Buy L.L. Bean Boots at Their Birthplace

Leon Leonwood Bean revolutionized outdoor footwear in 1911 when he introduced boots made with leather uppers and rubber bottoms. And the original L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport, Maine, opened in 1917, is still the place—no matter the hour of day—to get the full Bean boot experience, complete with a photo op next to the 16½-foot-tall replica (size 410, in case you’re wondering) just outside the main building.

13. Master Walking on Cobblestones

These picturesque old pavers can be found from Newport to the Old Port, but the bumpiest, lumpiest, most authentic cobbles live on Boston’s Beacon Hill (meaning even Brahmins have to watch their step).

14. Knock Back Some Grog and Sing a Sea Chantey at “the Gris”

Revolutionary Ale is the go-to order at the Griswold Inn and Tap Room in Essex, Connecticut, where shipbuilders and sailors were slaking their thirst as early as 1776.

15. Time-Travel at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum

Walking past the dioramas at the Mashantucke t Pequot Museum , a major museum of Native American culture in Ledyard, Connecticut, you might be inclined to speak in hushed tones, as if intruding on the ultra-lifelike models of indigenous people that help bring history to vibrant life.

.css-3j4fqm{color:#000000;} 16. Get Away from It All at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park

A Cornish, New Hampshire, gem, Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park is one of the least-visited national parks in America—a fact you’ll find hard to believe as you wander the tranquil former estate of sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, whose works include the stirring memorial to Robert Gould Shaw and the Massachusetts 54th Regiment, the nation’s first civic monument to the heroism of Black soldiers.

17. Stop and Smell the Roses at Elizabeth Park

From June to October, Elizabeth Park , America’s oldest municipally operated rose garden is the undisputed star of this 100-acre urban Eden in West Hartford, Connecticut.

18. Notch the Holy Trinity of Class Field Trips

Like countless New England schoolchildren before you, go tramping down dirt roads to an era when blacksmiths still ply their trade, dinner is cooked over an open hearth, and indoor plumbing is not yet a thing. Spanning the 1600s to the 1800s, the living history museums Plimoth Patuxet (formerly Plimoth Plantation) and Old Sturbridge Village (MA) and Mystic Seaport (CT) make unforgettable classrooms for kids—and terrific playgrounds for history-loving adults.

19. Spend Hours Browsing at the Book Barn

First opened in 1988, this crazy multibuilding bookshop in Niantic, Connecticut, must be seen to be believed. Given the Book Barn ‘s repository of half a million used books, a trail of bread crumbs may actually be required to find your way out.

20. Get Saltwater Taffy at the Goldenrod

At the Goldenrod , New England’s most enchanting candy factory in York Beach, Maine, you can watch through storefront windows as workhorse machines installed in the ’40s and ’50s crank out hundreds of pounds of taffy each day from mid-May through Columbus Day. Two-cent penny candy, molasses sponge hard candies, homemade ice cream, and an antique soda fountain add to the back-in-time allure.

21. Step Aboard the Maine Steamboat Katahdin

History and wilderness beauty converge during a cruise on the 1914 steamboat Katahdin —affectionately nicknamed the Kate —which once towed tons of logs across New England’s second-largest lake, Moosehead, during the spring log drives that fueled Maine’s forest economy. Hailed as the last steamboat on Moosehead (though long since converted to diesel), the Kate takes you past islands and vistas of the North Woods you won’t see any other way.

22. Visit a Maple Sugar Shack

Turning tree sap into something as heavenly sweet as maple syrup only seems like magic. The truth is there’s a real process behind it, and during the six(ish) weeks in late winter and early spring that define maple season, you can get a taste for what’s involved. Observe, sample, and maybe even pitch in at sugar shacks like Morse Farm in Montpelier, Vermont, where, high-tech gadgetry aside, Burr Morse essentially follows the same recipe as his ancestors two centuries back. Sip the end result, then buy some of that good stuff (in all its forms: syrup, sugar, candy, cream) from the gift shop to take home. Because you can never have enough maple. Ever.

23. Go White-Water Rafting at the Forks

Since the late 1970s, the Forks region in central Maine has been New England’s center for white-water rafting trips, and whether you ride down the Kennebec, the Dead River, or the West Branch of the Penobscot, the adrenaline rush is for real.

See More: Guide to White-Water Rafting in Maine

24. Make Peace with Plymouth Rock

Half sunken in the earth and looking rather like an oversize beanbag chair, this storied boulder in Plymouth, Massachusetts, elicits far fewer ooh s and aah s than what floats in the harbor beyond: the 180-ton, 106-foot-long Mayflower II , the recently renovated replica of the Pilgrims’ vessel that stands as a testament to the skills of shipbuilders past and present.

25. Experience a Maine Windjammer

There’s only so much you can see while flying down Route 1, folks. To truly behold the splendor of Maine’s coast, trade wheels for sails aboard a windjammer, a tall ship that slows the pace down to maybe 10 miles an hour as it weaves between spruce-blanketed islands and into hidden coves. And while day-trips are a fine option, it’s worth the splurge to book a longer voyage and see the coast in another, even more magical way—by starlight.

26. Pick Apples and Eat Cider Doughnuts

It’s the fall-iest of New England fall outings: You park in a grassy lot, hop on a wagon, and ride out past rows of McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Cortland, and, ideally, a few regional heirlooms, like Roxbury Russet and Rhode Island Greening. Fill your bucket or bag (remembering to twist , not pull, the apples off), pay the per-pound price, and reward yourself with a cinnamon-spiced cider doughnut fresh from the fryer. And while there’s no shortage of orchards at which to practice this tasty ritual, here are a few picks to get you started:

• Belltown Hill Orchards in Glastonbury, Connecticut
• Red Apple Farm in Phillipston, Massachusetts
• Shelburne Orchards in Shelburne, Vermont
• Gould Hill Farm in Contoocook, New Hampshire
• Young Family Farm in Little Compton, Rhode Island

See More: Best Apple Orchards in New England and Best Cider Doughnuts in New England

27. Relish a New England–Style Hot Dog

How do you like your dog? Topped with a secret-sauce relish and mayo at Flo’s in Cape Neddick, ME? How about Rhode Island’s Olneyville New York System wiener with meat sauce, mustard, celery salt, and onions? Or maybe you crave the juicy burst of a Maine red snapper dog or Fenway Frank ? We’ll take them all, content in the knowledge that New England is hot dog heaven.

See More: Best Hot Dogs in New England 

28. Visit Connecticut’s Thimble Islands

This archipelago of more than 300 islands in Long Island Sound is reputedly where Captain Kidd buried his famous treasure—and definitely where some of the region’s high rollers live today.

29. Explore the Other Cape Cod at the Cape Cod National Seashore

Smack dab in the heart of one of the nation’s most popular summer destinations is a pristine oasis of sand and water known as the Cape Cod National Seashore . This is the Cape Cod of open spaces, where traffic and crowds recede. Best of all, it’s the Cape Cod that all of us own, encompassing 43,600 acres of beaches and dunes, freshwater ponds and forests, that stretches from Chatham to Provincetown.

30. Spend a Night in One of the AMC’s “High Huts”

Leave the tent at home. Thanks to the Appalachian Mountain Club , you can get made-from-scratch meals, running water, an actual bed, and the chance to commune with fellow hikers in the shadow of some of the White Mountains’ most majestic peaks.

31. Stroll an Ivy League Campus

The beautiful, brick-filled campuses of Harvard, Brown, Yale, and Dartmouth are stars in their own right even as they incubate the movers and shakers of tomorrow—one of which might even be your guide on a student-led tour.

32. Take In a Sea Dogs Game in Portland

With its Fenway-inspired “Maine Monster” and a lighthouse that rises from center field when the home team belts a home run, a summer Sea Dogs game in Portland, Maine, is one of the best and most distinctive minor league experiences in the country.

33. Experience Sol LeWitt’s Colorful Wall Drawings at Mass MoCA

Presented across nearly an acre of wall space, this Connecticut artist’s dizzyingly vibrant wall drawings could only be contained by a museum like Mass MoCA , the former industrial complex in North Adams, MA, that’s now one of the country’s most ambitious museums.

34. Drive Through Aroostook County at Potato-Blossom Time

Three hundred miles north of Portland, Maine, vast swaths of farmland mark Aroostook County (called simply “the county” by Mainers). This is potato country, and in midsummer pink and white blossoms stretch to its horizon as if part of the sky itself.

35. Visit the Birthplace of Classic American Literature

Since Mark Twain is famed for his tales of the Mississippi, it may be surprising to learn that some of his most productive years were spent in Hartford, Connecticut . The mansion where he spun his yarns about Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn is now The Mark Twain House & Museum that—from the “speaking tubes” in the walls to the billiard room that served as his office—offers a fascinating glimpse of the author. If the Gilded Age is more your speed, set your course for Lenox, Massachusetts , and the elegant estate known as the Mount, where Edith Wharton wrote The House of Mirth and Ethan Frome . After touring it, find a place on the manicured grounds to sit with a good book—it’s literally what the place was made for.

36. Pay a Visit to the Portsmouth African Burying Ground

Outside New York, the only DNA-verified colonial-era African cemetery in the Northeast is in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which in 2015 dedicated a memorial park at the site that had been built on, paved over, and virtually forgotten for decades. Today you can honor a part of Portsmouth’s history that refused to die.

37. Stroll the Freedom Trail in Boston

Walk Boston’s Freedom Trail to see how our nation got started, then indulge in the prime people-watching scene at Faneuil Hall to see how it’s looking today.

38. Pay Your Respects to the Old Man of the Mountain

Take a waterfall-crowned hike through Flume Gorge or a high-flying tram ride up 4,000-foot Cannon Mountain , but on your visit to New Hampshire’s Franconia Notch State Park be sure to leave time to visit Profiler Plaza , the site where the Old Man of the Mountain’s craggy visage once looked out over the notch.

39. Experience the Gilded Age in Newport, Rhode Island

Spectacularly juxtaposed with the natural beauty of the Atlantic coastline, Newport’s historic mansions are must-see monuments to Gilded Age decadence. You can get their flavor from the Cliff Walk , a three-and-a-half-mile public path that runs right through the backyards of some of Newport’s grandest properties. Several of the Newport Mansions also offer tours, but if you can experience only one, make it the Breakers: This 70-room Vanderbilt family “cottage” is over-the-top even by Newport standards.

40. Go Off the Beaten Path to a Cult-Favorite Brewery

For our money, the best kind of beer run is the one that can double as a day trip. For fresh air and fresh suds, the reigning mecca is Hill Farmstead , a multi-award-winning brewery in tiny Greensboro Bend, Vermont, built on land that’s been in founder Shaun Hill ’s family for generations. Another rural gem: Kent Falls Brewing in Kent, Connecticut, a farm-based setup where you can not only score ales and IPAs but also some just-laid eggs.

41. Shop at the Original Vermont Country Store

At the original Vermont Country Store in Weston, founded in 1946, you can stroll creaking wood floors, plunder the penny candy, and revel in your haul while rocking on the front porch.

42. Taste Local Flavor at Matunuck Oyster Bar

You can’t get much closer to the source than Matunuck Oyster Bar in South Kingstown, Rhode Island, where owner Perry Raso and crew raise their signature sweetly mineral oysters in the waters of Potter Pond, right off the restaurant’s outdoor decks. Grab a seat and slurp up Rhode Island flavor at its finest.

43. Eat Like a New Englander

One of the best things to do in New England is eat, but New England’s most iconic foods—chowder, baked beans, blueberry pie, and the like—are more than mere items on a bucket list. They’re edible artifacts, telling stories of immigration, history, and agriculture. You can learn more about the history of each dish in our expanded “How to Eat Like a New Englander” post, but here’s where you can order an outstanding example of each.

• Clam Chowder at Chatham Fish Pier in Chatham, Massachusetts
• Blueberry Pie at Two Fat Cats in Portland or Helen’s in Machias, Maine
• Baked Beans at Boston’s Union Oyster House
• Stuffies at Amaral’s in Warren, Rhode Island; Anthony’s in Middletown, Rhode Island; and PJ’s Family Restaurant in Wellfleet, Massachusetts
• Yankee Pot Roast at the Griswold Inn in Essex, Connecticut; Grill 23 in Boston; and the Common Man restaurants in New Hampshire

44. Catch a Glimpse of the Underground Railroad

Starting with Vermont, where slavery was outlawed in 1777, New England was an early leader in abolition—which meant that when federal fugitive slave laws were enacted, it was at the fore of the now-legendary interracial, interfaith effort that helped slaves escape to freedom. The Underground Railroad passed through more than 80 of the region’s cities and towns, and today there are dozens of historical sites tied to that era. Among them: Boston’s African Meeting House , the David Ruggles Center (Florence, MA), and Rokeby Museum (Ferrisburgh, VT), which stands out for exceptional storytelling and a beautiful rural setting.

45. Spot a Moose

In New England’s far northern reaches, moose watching is a cottage industry in which local guides lead you to the animals’ haunts, often by van but sometimes by boat. And boy, there is nothing like sharing a stare with a moose as your pontoon boat or canoe slides silently past.

See More: How, When & Where to Spot a Moose in New England

46. See the Answer to “Who’s a Good Boy?” at the Dog Chapel 

At the 150-acre haven dubbed Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, is a wee church filled with founder Stephen Huneck’s dog-centric art and visitors’ heartfelt tributes to four-legged friends.

47. Be Haunted by Art at the Gardner

Goose bumps are guaranteed when you stand before what is arguably John Singer Sargent’s masterwork, the massive, moody 1882 painting El Jaleo , at Boston’s Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum . Then, head upstairs to contemplate the ghostly empty frames left behind in the world’s largest museum heist, in which thieves vanished with 13 priceless works including Rembrandt’s Christ in the Storm on the Sea of Galilee . After three decades, the art’s whereabouts are still unknown.

48. Ride the Nostalgia at Canobie Lake Park

It began in 1902 as a lakeside botanical park, but Canobie Lake Park in Salem, New Hampshire, is still going strong as a beloved old-timey amusement park that hits all the essentials: small-kid-friendly, immaculately clean, a bit homespun, but with just enough legit thrill rides to satisfy adrenaline junkies.

49. Fall Under the Spell of a Lighthouse

George Bernard Shaw once said, “I can think of no other edifice constructed by man as altruistic as a lighthouse. They were built only to serve.” And in truth these simple structures continue to endure as symbols of security and hope even after retired from use. From the candy cane–striped West Quoddy Head Light in the farthest reaches of Down East Maine to Newport, Rhode Island’s trim and tidy Rose Island Light (whose tower rises from a keeper’s house where you can actually spend the night), New England has some 200 historic beacons scattered across its shores. Happy hunting—we’ll leave the light on for you.

50. Mangia to Your Heart’s Content on Federal Hill

A favored stop for Sinatra when touring New England in the ’50s, this Providence, Rhode Island, neighborhood invites you to feast on delicacies imported by Italian immigrants and soak up the Old World vibe of its piazza on a summer night.

51. Eat Your Way Through an Economy-Size Block of Vermont Cheddar

It’s a country store staple: a big block of cheddar on the counter, kept under glass and divvied up into wedges. If you track your own household’s cheddar consumption, you may find that it adds up to five pounds between September and March. Conveniently, Vermont cheddar comes in hefty portions, from the three-pound brick of waxed Cabot sharp to choose-your-own-adventure cuts of Grafton clothbound.

52. Stroll the Marginal Way in Maine

Southern Maine’s signature walkway is a smooth bluff path in Ogunquit that edges the ocean for just over a mile with stunning views of both sandy beach and rocky shore. Benches invite you to rest and contemplate tide pools, crashing waves, and wetsuited surfers. Finally, the Marginal Way path spills into Perkins Cove, a working harbor that shares narrow lanes with fish shacks, ice cream stands, and shops, all against the backdrop of the sea.

53. Get Inspired by Norman Rockwell’s Freedom of Speech

One of nearly 1,000 works at the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, this 1943 illustration—part of the famed “Four Freedoms”—finds universal resonance in a New England town meeting.

54. Delight in the Hidden Beauty of the “Farm Coast”

Farmers and fishermen share a landscape of meadow, barns, and sea that stretches from Tiverton down to Little Compton in Rhode Island, then veers east to nudge into Massachusetts. Dotted with farm stands and historic villages, this region remains one of those under-the-radar spots that travelers discover and wonder why it took them so long.

55. Bliss Out with a Maple Creemee

While “creemee” is merely a catch-all term for softserve, a maple creemee is a uniquely Vermont treat: creamier than soft-serve and shot through with the flavor of real maple syrup. The best maple creemees tend to be a little richer than average, and you can find sterling examples at Vermont Cookie Love in North Ferrisburgh, Canteen Creemee Co. in Waitsfield, and Al’s French Frys in South Burlington.

56. Don’t Miss Out on Hearing the Kotzschmar Organ

When the organist touches the keys of the world-famous Kotzschmar Organ at Merrill Auditorium in Portland, Maine, its array of 6,857 pipes comes alive, filling the air with music that would wake the saints. Listen, simply listen.

57. Have Your Consciousness Raised at the Bread and Puppet Theater and Museum

At the Glover, Vermont, headquarters of Bread and Puppet , a puppeteering troupe whose long legacy of activism goes back to the Vietnam War protests, you can check out one of the world’s largest collections of oversize puppets and masks—and, if a performance is scheduled that day, see how they’re used to help call out modern-day abuses of power.

58. Reconnect with the American Revolution

From the Bennington Ba ttle Monument in Vermont to the American Independence Museum in New Hampshire, New England has scores of Revolutionary War sites to explore, each with its own story to tell of the nation’s founding. For maximum fife-and-drum drama, it’s impossible to beat Minute Man National Park in Massachusetts : Not only does it encompass the town green where colonists took heed of Paul Revere and intercepted the British on April 19, 1775, as well as the Old North Bridge, where the “shot heard round the world” was fired, but each year on Patriots Day the whole thing is brought to life in an epic reenactment.

59. Revisit the Amistad Uprising That Galvanized the Abolitionist Movement

The inspiring story of the Amistad revolt—when kidnapped Africans took over their slave ship in 1839—lives on in New Haven, Connecticut, from the 14-foot monument at City Hall to the reproduction schooner berthed at Long Wharf.

60. Be Romanced by a Covered Bridge

Back in horse-and-buggy days, covered bridges with lengthy spans were known as “kissin’ bridges,” because of the moment of privacy they provided. While we can’t recommend such activities in today’s faster-moving vehicles, you can sense the interlude that might have been while traversing the 1866 Cornish-Windsor bridge , which crosses the Connecticut River between Cornish, New Hampshire, and Windsor, Vermont. Until an Ohio bridge stole the crown in 2008, this 449-foot-long span had been the country’s longest covered bridge. It’s still terrifically scenic, as are New England’s other 200-odd covered bridges. (Note: If a perfect photo is what you’re after, Connecticut’s West Cornwall Bridge is a fall favorite.)

61. Wander Around the Gingerbread Cottages on Martha’s Vineyard

The enclave of 300-plus colorful Victorian gingerbread cottages known as the Oak Bluffs Campground can hold its own against any exotic garden.

62. See Immigrants’ Contributions Carved in Stone at Hope Cemetery

The master granite carvers who migrated from Italy to Barre, Vermont, created monuments here that are as much works of sculptural grandeur as they are memorials. Founded in 1895 in the so-called “Granite Capital of the World,” Hope Cemetery includes a number of graves of the sculptors themselves—with some tombstones carved by the very artists who now lie beneath them.

63. Hike Mount Monadnock

Standing at 3,165 feet, Mount Monadnock is one of the most-climbed summits in the world for a reason: In under two hours, you can be atop the only peak in New England that offers views of all six states.

64. Unpack the Ultimate Picnic Experience at Tanglewood

Since 1937, the Boston Symphony Orchestra has made its summer home at Tanglewood , a Berkshires estate turned performance space. Though its main, open-air venue holds more than 5,000, many regulars at Tanglewood’s annual music festival wouldn’t dream of sitting anywhere besides the lush, expansive lawns. Do as they do: Pack a fine picnic meal, bring a comfy blanket, and stretch out and soak up the sounds of a world-class orchestra on a perfect summer night.

65. Put Yourself into a Painting by Wyeth, Hopper, or Homer

A jaunt along the New England coast can be a scavenger hunt for art lovers, since many of the scenes immortalized by big-name painters are still recognizable today: from the huddled seaside cottages of Edward Hopper’s Corn Hill in Truro, Massachusetts, and the pounding surf captured by Winslow Homer at Prouts Neck, Maine, to the sweeping field and weather-beaten farmhouse in Andrew Wyeth’s Christina’s World , set on a property in Cushing, Maine, that along with the painting itself is now part of Rockland’s Farnsworth Art Museum.

66. Ride Boston’s Swan Boats

Glide back into childhood on Boston’s storied Swan Boats . You may even see Mrs. Mallard trailing along behind you, hoping for a peanut.

67. Fill Up at the Holy Donut

The Holy Donut in Portland, Maine, turns out 20 flavors of instantly addictive doughnuts (don’t miss the dark chocolate sea salt) using a twist from long-ago cooks in potato-growing Aroostook County: For a surpassingly moist and tender crumb, just add spuds.

68. Cruise the Mohawk Trail

Leisure driving as a pastime—aka “Let’s hop in the car”—can trace its start back to 1914, when Massachusetts lawmakers designated a 63-mile stretch of Routes 2 and 2A as the nation’s first scenic byway and named it the Mohawk Trail . More than a century later, its ability to bring motorists into the landscape is as appealing as ever. You’re in a small town … then passing through farmland … then cresting a mountain … then rambling beside a river. It’s no I-90, and, refreshingly, that’s kind of the point.

69. Hike the Knife Edge at Baxter State Park in Maine

This mile-long path atop Maine’s Mount Katahdin has forced more than a few climbers to crawl as it narrows to a yard wide, above drop-offs of 1,000 feet or more. Conquer the Katahdin knife edge , and you’ll reach the summit—and feel you’ve done something extraordinary. How many hikes do that ?

70. Savor Lobster Rolls — Both Hot and Cold

When it comes to cold-with-mayo vs. hot-and-buttered, we are Team Both. What matters is the quality of the preparation. Is the mayo mixed with the meat just before serving? Is the lobster warmed gently but not overcooked? Two spots where the answer is a big “yes” are McLoons in South Thomaston, Maine, where the mayo for the cold lobster rolls is ingeniously slathered on the bun rather than tossed with the meat, and Lobster Landing in Clinton, Connecticut, where owner Enea Bacci has perfected the hot roll by par-cooking the lobster in broth, then gently tossing the meat with butter in a warm pan.

71. Experience the Ocean Cliffs on Maine’s Bold Coast Trail

No, you don’t really have the entire Gulf of Maine to yourself on the Bold Coast Trail . It just seems that way on this pristine and oftentimes solitary 10-mile trek along beautifully rugged ocean cliffs in Cutler, Maine.

72. Get a Cone at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Its pints, scoops, and other frozen treats might be famous all over the world, but its gee-whiz factory tour, fully stocked gift shop, and fascinating “Flavor Graveyard” can be experienced only at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury, Vermont.

73. Order Up a New Haven–Style Apizza

After southern Italian immigrants to this Connecticut city began baking coal-fired pies that were crisper, thinner, and more topped-to-the-edges than the traditional Neapolitan pizza they’d known back home, New Haven-style pizza (or “apizza”) was born. Almost a century later, fans still fight over the supremacy of Sally’s versus Frank Pepe’s , but locals also savor the pies at Modern and the relative newcomer BAR .

74. Check Out “Oh-My-Gosh” Corner in Maine

Wait for winter, then take Maine’s Route 27 north along the Carrabassett River, heading to Sugarloaf Mountain, the state’s biggest ski destination. The slopes stay hidden behind the forest until you take the bend, and there it is … and then you say …

75. Explore the Pine Tree State with a Registered Maine Guide

There’s no better way to explore Maine’s woods and waters than alongside one of these wilderness experts, who have been offering their services to hunters and anglers since the 19th century. “The typical Maine Guide is just as much a product of the soil as are the mighty forests,” noted one outdoor writer in 1901, “and his replica is not to be found elsewhere.”

76. Visit the Mapparium in Boston

Have your whisper heard round the world inside Boston’s acoustically mind-blowing Mapparium . And oh yes, marvel at standing inside a three-story stained glass globe.

77. Go Camping at Cobscook Bay State Park

If America had been explored from west to east rather than east to west, the 888-acre Cobscook Bay State Park in Maine, with its breathtaking tidal flow that seems to drain the sea, might be our Yosemite—and it’s worth trekking the 100 miles beyond Bar Harbor to pitch a tent here.

78. Set Off on a Famous Foliage Drive

Smugglers’ Notch . Acadia’s Park Loop Road . The Mohawk Trail . When it comes to the A-listers of New England foliage roads, you owe it to yourself to see what all the fuss is about. Take the Kancamagus Highway : Sure, this 34-mile stretch of Route 112 between Lincoln and Conway, New Hampshire, can be jammed with cars and RVs on a brilliant autumn day, but the payoff is undiminished. Up and up you go, to 2,860 feet, with a scattering of lookouts where you can pull over for views of the Mad River Notch and the chance to linger among all those White Mountain peaks.

See More: 10 Best Fall Road Trips in New England and 4 Favorite Quiet Fall Foliage Drives

79. Snag a Selfie with the Nubble Light

When the Voyager spacecraft blasted off in 1977 for Jupiter and beyond, they carried (for the benefit of any curious aliens) images showing what Earthlings revered: the Great Wall and the Grand Canyon, yes, but also Nubble Light, the pride of York, Maine.

80. Eat Fried Clams at Woodman’s and J.T. Farnham’s

As the story goes, fried clams were invented in 1916 by Lawrence “Chubby” Woodman of Essex, Massachusetts, when he threw some battered bivalves into the hot oil at his potato chip stand. Essex has since become the nation’s fried clam capital, and there are prime examples to be had at Woodman’s and J.T. Farnham’s, which both offer views of the Essex River salt marshes where some of the world’s best clams are raised.

81. Experience the Green Monster at Fenway

You may have seen the Green Monster on television, but a true appreciation of Fenway Park’s 37-foot-high left field wall requires the smell of mown grass, the sizzle of franks on the grill, and the thump of the ball off the beast itself.

82. Bike Vermont’s Champlain Islands

In the world of road biking, the country lanes of Vermont’s Champlain Islands are spoken of with reverence, leading as they do through the heart of Lake Champlain and offering views of the Adirondacks and the Green Mountains. There’s even the chance to ride a little seasonal ferry whose sole purpose is to carry bicyclists across a narrow gap in a railroad causeway between the mainland and the islands.

83. Tackle the Great Vermont Corn Maze

Get all turned around in New England’s biggest agricultural conundrum—aka the 24-acre Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville, Vermont.

84. Eat a Whoopie Pie

Any whoopie pie is a good whoopie pie; that said, make a point to seek out the Ghirardelli chocolate version at Moulton Farm in Meredith, New Hampshire. As for Maine, you can go to the reputed birthplace of whoopie pies, Labadie’s Bakery in Lewiston, but Lil’s Café in Kittery also merits a visit.

85. See the Sunset at Race Point Beach

Sunset is appointment viewing at this strip of National Seashore land in Provincetown, Massachusetts. Dunes at your back, seals bobbing in the waves, sun melting into the horizon … look around. Everyone’s in awe, no matter how many times they’ve stood here before.

How many of these “best things to do in New England” have you seen, done, eaten, or experienced? What did we miss? Let us know in the comments below!

This list was first published in the 85th anniversary Sep/Oct 2020 issue of Yankee .

Yankee Editors

Discover New England One Day At A Time!

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Beautiful trip to Martha’s Vineyard

My friend and I were visiting Boston and decided to add this tour on to our stay. We are so glad we did. It was a wonderful trip. We were met at our hotel and driven to meet the ferry in Cape Cod. On Martha’s Vineyard, our tour guide, Tom, was amazing. He is a local who knew everything about the island and made the trip delightful from start to finish. This trip is totally worth it for those who are interested in relaxing and enjoying the sites of MV. We had lunch at a nice cafe, time for shopping and then met the ferry again to head back to Boston. It couldn’t have been easier and gave us some great memories.

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The best destinations for a New England fall road trip

Hop in the car and explore the region in search of changing leaves and find something to do for every type of traveler

Pumpkin spice lovers, rejoice. Fall is finally upon us (well, almost). It’s time to mark your calendars for sighting some proper fall foliage, frolicking in the leaves, and getting lost in a corn maze. While it’s easy to argue that fall is the superior season, not all regions are created equally when it comes to leaf peeping, and it’s no secret that one of the best in the country is in New England. If you’re looking for a proper fall getaway, here are 10 destinations for a New England fall road trip serving up your autumn fix.

RECOMMENDED: The best places to see fall foliage in the U.S.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

New England fall road trip destinations

1.  for hiking: stowe, vermont.

One of the many factors that makes fall so great is the moderate temperatures, which makes September and October a prime time to visit places like Stowe, Vermont. Perched on Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, Stowe, is an ideal escape for all of my mountain people. You’ll be situated near Stowe Recreation Path, Stowe Bike Path, and the Stowe Quiet Path, all picturesque trails that are prime for leaf-peeping. For an ideal place to stay, Outbound Stowe has direct access to Stowe’s Recreation Path and is charmingly set next to West Branch Little River. To really drive the mountain factor home, Topnotch Resort is set right at the foot of Mount Mansfield.

2.  For cocktail and beer aficionados: Biddeford, Maine

Often overlooked for its more popular neighbor, Portland, Biddeford, Maine, is one of the best-kept secrets in New England. Beautifully set on the coast, Biddeford provides access to three public beaches: Middle Beach, Fortune’s Rock Beach, and Biddeford Pool. Where Biddeford really shines, however, is its cocktail and brewery scene. Sacred Profrane Brewery and Tanktub offers a selection of craft beers that pair wonderfully with some of their savory menu items, like fish dip with saltines and their “lazy lobster bake.” Lucky Pigeon Brewing Co. has solely gluten-free beers, and Banded Brewing Co. is the town’s designated first brewery. For a cocktail, head to The Lobby Bar located inside The Lincoln Hotel , and for a brunch cocktail, head to Catface Cafe to savor their espresso martini.

3.  For foodies: New Haven, Connecticut

Earlier this year, U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro boldly claimed New Haven as the pizza capital of the country . While New Yorkers squirmed over the sentiment, it is difficult to argue that New Haven doesn’t make a mean “apizza,” and if you want to plan a New England trip entirely around eating, New Haven is the answer. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana is known as the best in the city, but Da Legna at Nolo, Ernie’s Pizzeria, Modern Apizza, and Sally’s Apizza shouldn’t be missed either. The city’s culinary offerings go far beyond just apizza (what New Haveners call pizza as a nod to its Neapolitan roots); here, you can get your fix of Greek cuisine at olea , slurp some ramen at Menya-Gumi , and warm up with the flavors of Jamaica at Jammin Jamaican Cuisine.

4.  For the best foliage: Newport, Rhode Island

Let’s be real; whether you are sad that summer is over or simply don’t obsess over autumn as much as the average Tumblr girlies do, fall foliage is undoubtedly a beautiful natural phenomenon. While you can see good foliage in various parts of New England, Newport, Rhode Island, is an underrated gem that is prime for catching those amber-hued trees. Prime time is typically in October, and one of the best places in town for those Insta-worthy fall pics is the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk . From there, you’ll be able to catch sights of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Newport Mansions, which are completely surrounded by leafy trees in shades of red, yellow, and orange.

5.  For one last taste of summer: North Falmouth, Massachusetts

If you’re pining to hang onto summer just a little while longer, nothing will get your fix quite like a New England beach town. And while you might be under the assumption that summer is the only time to visit places like North Falmouth, Massachusetts, fall is arguably better. Not only are the crowds fewer, but you get the treat of enjoying both the crashing waves of Cape Cod and the drop-dead gorgeous foliage. For a resort located right on the water, head to Sea Crest Beach Resort , where you can wake up each day to the salty air and take those therapeutic long walks on the beach as you cry that summer is over. No fake summer is complete without some seafood, so grab some New England Clam Chowder, Haddock & Chips, and, of course, a quintessential New England Lobster Roll from The Hatch.

6.  For small-town rustic charm: Littleton, New Hampshire

Sometimes, we just need a quiet escape, and that’s where rustic American small towns come in. Insert Littleton, New Hampshire. Here, the best plan is to have minimal to no plans. Simply enjoy the relaxed, quaint surroundings of Littleton, which is known as one of the best places in New Hampshire to be fully immersed in the dramatic fall foliage. Grab a bite at Chang Thai Cafe by Chopped contestant Emshika Alberini, and head to Chutters afterward to experience the longest candy counter in the world. One thing’s for sure: you can’t leave town without jumping on the Mount Washington Cog Railway to ride to the top of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast.

7.  For all things quintessential fall: Burlington, Vermont

Whether it’s sipping cider, attending a pumpkin festival, or going apple picking, autumn is the time for very specific and quirky outdoor activities. And nowhere in New England does it better than Burlington, Vermont. Just an easy train ride away from New York City via Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express service, Burlington is the place to be for all things fall. Go pumpkin picking, hop on a hayride, and get lost in a corn maze at Sam Mazza's Farm Market or The Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville . For a real hands-on experience, join the Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin' Festival . For cider-sipping, head to Citizen Cider , Cold Hollow , and VT Cider Lab at the Essex Experience . For a fall-tastic place to stay, Hotel Vermont has just launched a Fall Foliage Hotline. Guests of the hotel can call (802) 651-0080 from September through October, and the Hotel Vermont concierge team will provide insider tips on how to get the most out of viewing Vermont’s foliage.

8.  For your inner child: Kent, Connecticut

Raise your hand if you’re sick of adulting. Club Getaway in Kent, Connecticut is here to feed your inner child and make you forget the stresses that come with, well, being an adult. Sprawled over 300 acres of land, Club Getaway is jam-packed with activities, making for a truly unconventional fall getaway. Whether it’s ziplining, sky cycling, going on a pub hike, playing on giant swings, or perfecting your archery skills, Club Getaway is a safe place to leave your priorities at home and simply be a kid again. Note that Club Getaway closes for the season in mid-October and offers designated dates for fall packages .

9.  For a spectacularly spooky time: Boston, Massachusetts

Salem often gets the gold for the spookiest destination in Massachusetts, but if you want something a little less predictable and more nuanced, Boston is calling. Jump on the Old Town Trolley’s Ghosts and Gravestones tour, where you can take a trolley through various spooky sites, including Boston’s oldest burying grounds, the Omni Parker House (a.k.a. the most haunted hotel in the city), and even walking amongst the dead. You can still certainly get your Salem fix here, too, by jumping on the Salem Ferry , where you can spend a day visiting where witches were burnt at the stake in the 1692 Salem witch trials. You’ll further want to head to Fort Warren, where “the lady in black” (the ghost of the wife of a soldier) is alleged to haunt to this day. For easy access to both the Ghosts and Gravestones tour and the Salem Ferry, make yourself comfortable at Boston Marriott Long Wharf .

10.  For a dog-friendly getaway: Acadia National Park, Maine

Last but certainly not least is one of the most beautiful places in New England year-round: Acadia National Park . Spanning 50,000 acres, Acadia National Park is a great place to be outdoors in the fall and, therefore, a great place to bring your furry best friend. It’s one of the few parks that allows pets, and dogs are welcome as long as they stay leashed. For peak foliage, you’ll want to head here in October. Your accommodation is just as important as the destination you choose, and with a pet, that’s even more so. Terramor Outdoor Resort is deep in the woods, giving you close access to both the park with just two minutes to its entrance. There’s even a designated dog park within the grounds, giving your pup plenty of options to take in one of the most beautiful parts of the Northeast.

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New England Tours from Boston

• Choose from 21 Boston tours
• 600+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best New England tours from Boston

Compiled by

Melissa Boston travel expert at TourRadar

New England's Fall Foliage (Classic, 8 Days, Boston Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

New england's fall foliage (small groups, 8 days, boston airport and post trip hotel transfer), autumn colours (9 days, boston airport and post trip hotel transfer) (including rockport), cape cod & the islands, new england and the hudson valley, spotlight on boston, colors of new england, colours of new england, colors of new england (boston, ma to portland, me) (2024), boston cape cod and the islands (classic, 8 days, boston airport and post trip hotel transfer).

• Sightseeing
• Dine on Maine lobster at a celebration dinner
• Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum
• Ride the Gondola SkyRide at Loon Mountain

• Coach / Bus
• Taste Vermont's famous maple syrup

• Enjoy a farmhouse lunch in Vermont
• Walk Boston's historic Freedom Trail
• Cruise on Lake Champlain

• Explore historical Boston on a relaxing harbour cruise
• Smell the ocean air as you explore Martha’s Vineyard
• Embark on a whale watching expedition with an expert

“The overall experience was great and I think this was partially due to the group of people we had in our tour.”

• Learn maple syrup making in Montpelier
• Taste regional treats in Freeport, Maine
• Explore Lexington, the birthplace of America

“The places we visited were all well thought out and the accomodations were excellent.”

• In-depth Cultural
• Dine in Boston's famed North End
• Explore historic Boston on a panoramic city tour
• Visit Minute Man National Historic Park

“I had such a blast. My tour guide was amazing and the group I was with were incredible.”

• Stroll Newport's Cliff Walk and view Gilded Mansions
• Meet your group in Boston, the city of liberty
• Discover the White Mountains and local maple syrup

• Discover the charm of Bar Harbor and Acadia Park
• Visit the stunning Flume Gorge in New Hampshire
• Photograph America's most iconic lighthouse

“Interesting variety of stops from rugged Maine to quaint Vermont to historic Boston with much in between.”

• Tour the Trapp Family Lodge
• Watch glassblowing in Vermont
• See Portland's famous lighthouses

• Visit Pilgrim Hall and Plimoth Patuxet Museums
• Tour Martha's Vineyard's charming cottages
• Discover glassblowing at Sandwich Glass Museum

Tours starting from Boston

Discover TourRadar

21 Fall Foliage Trips in New England You Need to Take

• September 2024

Crisp air, fiery leaves, and the magic of New England in fall—who wouldn’t want to capture that?

But picking the perfect spot can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack of golden leaves. Whether you're after a peaceful nature retreat, explore local history or a family-friendly adventure, we've got you covered.

Explore 21 handpicked destinations that offer the best of autumn—from Vermont’s colorful mountains to Rhode Island’s scenic coastlines. Get ready to make this fall unforgettable!

1. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a charming mountain town known as the "Ski Capital of the East." In fall, the ski slopes turn into a colorful canvas.

Drive along the winding Route 100, nicknamed the "Skiers' Highway," to see golden maples and red oaks. The Stowe Recreation Path offers a car-free way to enjoy nature.

It follows the West Branch River past old farms and covered bridges. Don't miss the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival in early October.

Here, you can watch local artists work and try Vermont treats like maple syrup and cider donuts.

2. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is famous for its fancy old mansions and beautiful ocean views. In the fall, the weather is perfect for exploring.

Take a walk on the Cliff Walk, a path that goes along the edge of the ocean. You'll see big waves on one side and huge, fancy houses on the other.

Newport loves sailing. You might see colorful sailboats in the harbor. In October, visit the Bowen's Wharf Seafood Festival.

Here, you can try fresh seafood and listen to live music right by the water.

3. Salem, Connecticut

Salem is a small town with lots of history. The Salem Historic District shows what life was like long ago.

Visit Gardner Lake State Park to see pretty fall colors reflected in the lake. You can have a picnic or go fishing here.

At Devil's Hopyard State Park, see a waterfall surrounded by colorful trees. In October, don't miss the Salem Apple Festival.

You can taste different kinds of apples, watch people make apple cider, and enjoy fun games.

4. Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit means "beautiful place by the sea" in the Native American language. In fall, it lives up to its name.

Walk along Marginal Way, a path on the cliffs above the ocean. The blue water and colorful trees make a pretty picture.

Visit Perkins Cove, a tiny fishing village with cute shops and restaurants. Ogunquit Beach is still nice in fall for long walks.

All month long, enjoy "Fall for Ogunquit" events. Later in October, OgunquitFest has pumpkin decorating and a costume parade.

5. Warren, New Hampshire

Warren is a quiet town in the White Mountains. It's perfect for people who love nature and want to avoid crowds.

Hike up to Wachipauka Pond for amazing views of fall colors. The pond sits high in the mountains and reflects the trees.

For an easier walk, try the Moosilauke Carriage Road. This old road was built for horses and carriages long ago.

Visit the Warren Historical Society to learn about the town's past. The building itself is from 1808 and has interesting artifacts.

6. Glastonbury, Connecticut

Glastonbury sits along the Connecticut River. Riverfront Park is a great place to enjoy fall colors and river views.

Visit the Connecticut Audubon Society Center to learn about local birds. You might see birds getting ready to fly south for winter.

Walk around the Glastonbury Historic District to see old houses and buildings. Some are from the 1600s and 1700s.

In mid-October, don't miss the Glastonbury Apple Harvest & Music Festival. You can try apple pies, listen to music, and go on carnival rides.

7. Princeton, Massachusetts (Wachusett Mountain)

Wachusett Mountain is the highest point in Massachusetts, east of the Connecticut River. In the fall, the views are amazing.

Take the SkyRide to the top of the mountain without hiking. You'll see colorful trees for miles around.

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation has trails for all skill levels. You can see wild animals and interesting plants.

Visit local farms and orchards to pick apples and pumpkins. In late October, enjoy Applefest at Wachusett Mountain, which features games and treats.

8. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington sits on the shore of Lake Champlain. In fall, the lake reflects the colorful trees on its banks.

Walk down Church Street in downtown Burlington. This car-free area has shops, restaurants, and street performers.

Ride a bike on the Burlington Bike Path. It goes along the lake and through parks with great views.

Visit the farmers' market to try local fall foods. You might find maple products, apple cider, and pumpkin treats.

9. Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Sturbridge is home to Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum. Here, visitors can experience life in the 1830s.

Watch people dressed in old-fashioned clothes do fall activities like harvesting crops and making apple cider.

Visit Wells State Park to see fall colors reflected in Walker Pond. You can hike, fish, or have a picnic here.

In fall, Old Sturbridge Village hosts "Phantoms By Firelight" for 12 nights. You can hear spooky stories and see the village at night.

10. Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly is a beach town that's still fun in fall. Misquamicut State Beach is less crowded but still beautiful.

Walk through Wilcox Park to see pretty trees and plants. The park has a pond and interesting statues.

Visit The United Theatre to see a show or movie. This old theater has been around since 1926.

Join the Columbus Day Parade to see floats and marching bands. You can also go apple picking at nearby orchards.

11. Fryeburg, Maine

Fryeburg is famous for its big fair, which lasts for eight days and features farm animals, rides, and lots of food.

Canoe or kayak on the Saco River to see fall colors from the water. The river is calm and good for beginners.

Climb Jockey Cap Rock for a great view of the White Mountains. It's a short, easy hike with a big reward.

Visit local farms to pick apples and pumpkins. You might even see moose in the fields early in the morning.

12. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is an old seaport with lots of history. Prescott Park has pretty gardens and views of the Piscataqua River.

Visit Strawbery Banke Museum to see houses from the 1600s to the 1900s. People in old-fashioned clothes show how life used to be.

Walk around the old neighborhoods to see beautiful fall trees and historic buildings. Some houses are more than 300 years old.

In mid-October, enjoy the Strawbery Banke Museum Fall Festival. You can learn old-time crafts and taste historic recipes.

13. Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport is a pretty coastal town. Take a drive along Ocean Avenue to see fancy houses and ocean views.

Walk through the town to see trees full of red and orange leaves. The colors look nice next to the white church steeples.

Visit nearby beaches like Goose Rocks Beach. They're quiet in the fall and great for long walks.

Take a short trip to York, Maine, for the HarvestFest. There, you can watch pumpkin carving and attend a parade.

14. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock looks like a picture-perfect New England town. The village green is surrounded by colorful maple trees in fall.

Visit the Billings Farm & Museum to see a working dairy farm. You can watch cows being milked and try fresh cheese.

Take a short drive to see the Quechee Gorge, known as "Vermont's Little Grand Canyon." The fall colors make it even prettier.

In October, enjoy the Apples & Crafts Fair. You can buy handmade items and taste different kinds of apples grown nearby.

15. North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway is located in the heart of the White Mountains, a great place to see fall colors.

Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad through the countryside. The old-fashioned train gives you great views of the colorful forests.

Drive the Kancamagus Highway, one of the best fall foliage routes in New England. There are lots of spots to stop and take photos.

Visit the Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center to learn about the area's famous extreme weather.

16. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park offers some of the most stunning fall scenery in New England. The red and gold leaves contrast with the blue ocean.

Drive or bike up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. On clear days, you can see for miles.

Walk along Ocean Path to see waves crashing against rocky cliffs. The path goes by famous spots like Thunder Hole.

In October, visit nearby Bar Harbor for the Acadia Night Sky Festival. You can stargaze in one of the darkest skies in the East.

17. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

The Litchfield Hills region is full of charming small towns and beautiful countryside. Drive along Route 7 to see covered bridges and farms.

Visit Kent Falls State Park to see a series of waterfalls surrounded by fall colors. There's an easy trail with lookout points.

Stop in the town of Kent to visit art galleries and antique shops. Kent was voted one of the best fall foliage towns in New England.

In October, enjoy the Garlic and Harvest Festival in nearby Bethlehem. You can try all kinds of garlic dishes and buy local crafts.

18. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The Berkshires are known for fall colors, art, and music. The region has many small towns nestled in beautiful hills.

Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge to see paintings of classic New England scenes.

Take a hike in Mount Greylock State Reservation, home to Massachusetts's highest point. The views from the top are amazing in the fall.

In October, enjoy the Hancock Shaker Village Country Fair. You can see farm animals, try old-fashioned crafts, and eat local food.

19. Mohawk Trail, Massachusetts

The Mohawk Trail (Route 2) is one of the oldest scenic roads in New England. It runs through the northern Berkshires.

Stop at the famous Hairpin Turn for a great view of the Hoosac Valley. On clear days, you can see three states from here.

Visit the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls. This old trolley bridge is covered with flowers that bloom into the fall.

In October, check out the Mohawk Trail Concerts for classical music in beautiful settings.

20. Franconia Notch, New Hampshire

Franconia Notch is a mountain pass in the White Mountains. It's home to some of New Hampshire's most famous natural wonders.

Take the aerial tramway up Cannon Mountain for amazing views of the surrounding mountains and their fall colors.

Visit the Flume Gorge, a natural granite ravine with waterfalls. The wooden walkways let you get close to the rushing water.

In fall, you might spot moose near Profile Lake. This is also where you can learn about the famous "Old Man of the Mountain" rock formation.

21. Grafton, Vermont

Grafton is a tiny village that looks like it's frozen in time. The entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Walk down Main Street to see restored 19th-century buildings. The red and gold leaves make the white churches and inns look even prettier.

Visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company to watch cheesemakers at work. You can taste different kinds of cheddar made right there.

Explore Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center for fall activities. You can go mountain biking, hiking, or canoeing surrounded by colorful trees.

In October, check out the Grafton Ponds Fall Festival. It has pumpkin carving, hay rides, and a chili cook-off with local recipes.

Ready to Fall for New England?

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there's no better time to explore the wonders of New England.

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant colors, rich history, or cozy festivals, these 21 destinations offer something for everyone.

Now that you’ve got the inside scoop, it’s time to start planning your perfect fall escape!

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