New England is a favorite destination in the United States. The six states running from Maine to Connecticut have everything from major urban centers to the great outdoors where you can escape to the forests and seaside. They also have history dating back centuries.
So, no matter what type of place you’re looking for, New England has it. Now, planning your next trip to New England can seem a bit daunting. But not to worry.
This list has the 12 best New England vacation spots for your next getaway. All you have to do is check them out and pick which one suits you best.
12 New England Vacation Spots
1. Acadia National Park (Maine)
At the top of the list of best New England vacation spots is Acadia National Park.
Located off the coast of Maine in the Atlantic Ocean, it’s one of the most beautiful national parks.
Peak season in Acadia runs from May through October. It’s hands-down the most beautiful time to explore the park.
Over 150 miles of hiking trails will take you through this beautiful terrain. Check out the Jordan Pond Loop and for exceptional views hike up Gorham Mountain Trail.
A favorite to-do is to drive up Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views, just make sure to make a reservation during peak season from May long weekend through late October.
Acadia National Park on the Maine coast is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts
2. Portland, Maine
There’s so much to do in Portland, Maine making it one of the best New England vacation Spots.
Your itinerary will be packed with everything from historical sights and outdoor adventure to checking out the crazy good art scene and stellar breweries.
The lighthouses of Portland are a must see. Don’t miss the Bug Light, Portland Head Light, or the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse.
To see the major Portland sites, consider a boat tour for a perspective from the water.
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Portland Head Light is one of the must-see attractions in Portland Maine
3. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington, Vermont has everything you’re looking for in outdoor adventure and a quaint city.
Located on the shore of Lake Champlain, Burlington is the bustling city of Vermont.
On Church Street Marketplace you’ll find great places to eat, hear live music, shop, and peruse local art.
Staying true to its outdoorsy roots, there’s a lot of adventure to be had.
Go kayaking on the lake, bike along the shoreline on the Burlington Greenway, and take a stroll along the boardwalk on Waterfront Park.
Or take a fun filled boat tour on Lake Champlain with Whistling Man Schooner and learn a few interesting tales about Burlington along the way.
Of course, there’s plenty of hiking trails around Burlington too, Red Rocks Park is a popular spot.
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Take a walk along Waterfront Park at Lake Champlain in Burlington Vermont
4. Green Mountains, Vermont
Known as one of the best places on the East Coast for winter sports, the Green Mountains are also one of the perfect New England vacation spots in the summer.
The pristine wilderness is ready for any and all outdoor adventures.
At resorts like Killington, Bromley, and Stowe you’ll find hiking, mountain biking, golfing, and alpine slides.
Adorable towns throughout the Green Mountains, like Woodstock, Weston, and Ludlow, are also ideal places to stop for a day or weekend getaway in New England.
Weston is a cute town on scenic Route 100 by the Green Mountains in Vermont
5. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth, New Hampshire is seriously one of the best places to visit in New England for anyone looking for a cute historical town.
There’s so much history to explore in this small town.
You’ll definitely feel the presence of America’s forefathers as you explore the narrow streets downtown.
Definitely check out Strawbery Banke Museum to step back in time or drive around New Castle Island.
Consider Prescott Park, Four Tree Island or a boat tour for some of the best views in Portsmouth.
Portsmouth New Hampshire is an ideal New England getaway
6. White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountains are a great destination any time of year.
You can visit during the spring when flowers are in bloom.
The snowcapped mountains are a draw for any ski bum.
It’s just breathtaking in the fall when the leaves change color. Driving the Kancamagus Highway is one of the top places for fall foliage.
During the summer the White Mountains have everything from hiking, biking, camping, swimming, and fishing.
No wonder the White Mountains are seriously one of the best New England vacation spots for outdoor enthusiasts.
Driving the scenic byway is a top attraction in the White Mountains New Hampshire
7. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is a favorite among New England vacation spots in the summertime.
This seaside town has everything to love about vacationing in the northeast.
You’ll love the boats bobbing in the harbor and touring the Gilded Age mansions. The Breakers is one not to miss.
One of the must-do things in Newport is walking along the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk with incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.
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Spend a morning or afternoon walking along the beautiful cliffside walk in Newport Rhode Island
8. Providence, Rhode Island
The capital of Rhode Island is one of the stellar New England vacation spots.
It’s got everything from history and art to a lively college scene.
As an important city since colonial times, Providence has tons of historical sites to explore. A visit to Roger Williams Park is a must do on any Providence itinerary.
Check out the RISD Museum for international and contemporary art.
Enjoy a stroll on campus of Brown University.
Picturesque Providence Rhode Island
9. Boston, Massachusetts
One of the best New England vacation spots has to be Boston, a city steeped in American history.
You’ll love exploring the city with its narrow streets and buildings dating back to the founding of the country.
There are so many sites to visit like the Paul Revere House and Faneuil Hall. Following the Freedom Trail is one of the best things to do in town.
Cheer for the Red Sox at Fenway Park, stroll Boston Common or enjoy a meal at one of the outdoor cafes.
Boston Massachusetts is a beautiful New England destination
10. Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport is a gem on the Massachusetts coastline.
Located to the north of Boston, Rockport is one of the most perfect New England vacation spots in summer.
You can spend the day at any of the beaches like Cape Hedge, Long Beach, or Pebble.
Halibut State Park is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the Twin Lighthouses or the picturesque Loblolly Cove.
For something super interesting to do check out the Paper House. Yes, paper.
Rockport Massachusetts is an idyllic vacation spot in New England
11. New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven is a lovely seaside town located on the Long Island Sound.
But as the home of Yale University, there’s a buzz of energy that makes it one of the New England vacation spots not to miss.
Stroll along downtown for good food and window shopping. Learn about the city’s historical impact at the New Haven Museum and the Pardee-Morris House.
Take in the works of master artists at the Yale University Art Gallery.
Take some time to watch the waves at Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven
12. Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic is a town of great history and charm.
Located at the mouth of the Mystic River, its whole existence is centered around the water.
Throughout the town you’ll see the nautical theme. But it’s not just a stylish look. This town has a long history of shipbuilding dating back to the 1600s.
To learn about its important past, make sure to visit the Mystic Seaport Museum where you can see the last wooden whaleship, the Charles W Morgan.
Mystic Connecticut is where you’ll find the beautiful old wooden ship Charles W Morgan
Final Thoughts on Vacation Spots in New England
See? From cute seaside towns to wilderness adventures, it’s all there. You’ve got Portland to Mystic and everything in between. It’s no wonder these 12 gorgeous vacation spots are at the top of the list of places to see in New England. There’s something for everyone. Which one will you visit next?
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More Places to Visit in New England
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Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse