I’ve spent most of my life exploring New England, and still, it keeps surprising me. Everyone knows about Boston’s cobblestone charm and Vermont’s fiery foliage, but the real magic often hides in the small towns, rugged coastlines, and quiet mountain passes you only stumble on by accident. I’ve driven countless backroads here, from misty mornings in Acadia to sunny afternoons in the Berkshires, and each trip feels like peeling back another layer of home.
The region packs in more variety than most countries twice its size: lighthouses clinging to rocky cliffs, farm-to-table towns where everyone seems to know your name, and landscapes that change completely with each season. Some places I almost hesitate to share because part of their beauty is how few people know about them. But if you’re planning a trip through New England, these are the 15 spots I’d tell even my closest friends not to miss.
The Best of New England: 15 Must-See Destinations
All of the locations and attractions below are special in their own ways. So when you’re putting together your own New England road trip itinerary, consider including some of these epic destinations.
This is one of the few parts of the United States where you truly can do it all: explore nature, experience art and culture, learn about history, meet new people, etc. Just like a New England seafood restaurant, the world is your oyster. So…enjoy the feast!
Don’t have time to read the full article? Here are the best places in New England at a glance:
- Best Outdoor Adventure: Burlington, Vermont
- Most Historic: Boston, Massachusetts
- Best for Halloween Enthusiasts: Salem, Massachusetts
- Top for Foodies: Portland, Maine
- Best Arts and Culture Scene: Providence, Rhode Island
- Top Hiking Destination: Baxter State Park, Maine
- Best for Mountain Views: North Conway, New Hampshire
- Most Picturesque Coastal Town: Bar Harbor, Maine
- Top Lake Vacation Spot: Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
- Best Hidden Gem: Rockport, Massachusetts
- Most Charming Small Town: Stowe, Vermont
- Best Island Escape: Nantucket, Massachusetts
- Most Luxurious: Newport, Rhode Island
- Top for Scenic Beauty: Lake Willoughby, Vermont
- Best Beach Town: Hyannis, Massachusetts
1. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington is hands down the best outdoor playground in New England, and I’ve spent countless weekends here proving it. The Lake Champlain waterfront scene is actually incredible – I love biking the Burlington Greenway (they plow it year-round now), and the sailing options are way better than most people realize. Whistling Man Schooner Company does sunset sails that are pretty awesome, and Captain Bubba makes it fun even if you’ve never been sailing.
The brewery scene here is legit. Citizen Cider‘s South End tasting room is where I always end up after a day on the water – their hard ciders are honestly some of the best I’ve had anywhere. For 2025, they’ve got the Miller Recreation Center and CORE doing drop-in pickleball, which is huge here now. The Burlington Bike Path extends about 13 miles along the lake, and you can actually take the ferry to New York if you want to make it a two-state adventure.
Summer farmers markets happen every Saturday downtown with 90+ vendors, but here’s what locals know: the best time to visit is late spring through early fall when all the waterfront activities are running. Ferry rides across Lake Champlain cost around $8 for foot passengers, and kayak rentals run about $30 for a half-day. Don’t sleep on Church Street Marketplace either – it’s touristy but the street performers are actually talented.
2. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem in October is absolutely insane, but honestly? It’s worth dealing with the crowds. Ghost tours run every single night, and they’re way better than I expected – especially the candlelit ones that start at Salem Wax Museum. The Salem Witch Museum is the big draw (tickets are $17.50 for adults, but buy them online after 10pm the night before because they sell out by 1am), though I’ll be real – the presentation feels pretty dated.
Here’s what I actually recommend: skip the touristy witch stuff during the day and hit House of the Seven Gables ($15 admission) or walk the Salem Maritime National Historic Site for free. The real magic happens at night when the ghost tours kick in. Witch Dungeon Museum has live actors and costs less than the main museum.
I’ve done Salem in both peak season and off-season, and late spring or early September is perfect – you get all the spooky vibes without fighting through crowds of people in witch costumes. The Salem Ferry to Boston runs seasonally and costs about $45 roundtrip, which beats driving and parking. Peabody Essex Museum is actually world-class if you want something substantial beyond the witch history. Pro tip: many of the best restaurants are hidden on the side streets off the main tourist areas.
- Read next: Incredible Luxury Spa Resorts in New England
3. Portland, Maine
Portland is straight-up one of the best food cities in America right now, and I’m not just saying that because I’m from New England. Travel + Leisure just called it “one of the best food cities in the U.S.” and they’re not wrong – there’s literally one restaurant for every 200 people here.
The brewery scene is absolutely stacked. Allagash Brewing does free tours that are actually informative, and their tasting room is worth the trip alone. But honestly, Industrial Way is where it’s at – you’ve got Goodfire Brewing, Lone Pine, and Austin Street all within walking distance. Battery Steele and Foundation Brewing (try their Detroit-style pizza) are solid too. Most brewery tastings run $8-15 for a flight.
Portland Head Light is probably the most photographed lighthouse in the world for good reason – it’s genuinely stunning and only costs $2 to climb. The Old Port district has incredible restaurants, but here’s what locals do: hit Tandem Coffee for morning coffee, grab lunch at Bite Into Maine for lobster rolls ($18-24), and end up at Sur Lie or Leeward for dinner if you want something special.
The Portland Fire Engine Co. vintage fire truck tours are actually fun ($25 adults), and you can wear the old firefighting gear for photos. Summer is prime time, but I love Portland in shoulder seasons when you can actually get reservations at the good spots. Parking downtown runs about $1-2/hour, or just take the Concord Coach from Boston ($25 each way).
4. Providence, Rhode Island
Providence has this incredible arts scene that most people completely miss, which is honestly their loss. WaterFire Providence happens select nights May through November – imagine 100+ bonfires floating on the river downtown with thousands of people walking around. It’s magical and totally free.
The Rhode Island School of Design Museum (RISD Museum) is world-class ($20 admission, free for RI residents), and the Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival in August brings serious filmmakers to town. I’ve caught some incredible independent films there over the years.
Federal Hill is where the real Italian-American food scene lives – forget the tourist traps and hit Caserta Pizzeria for their signature wimpy strips (yes, that’s actually what they call them). Broadway has the newer trendy spots, but the old-school spots on The Hill are where you’ll find authentic flavors.
The Trinity Repertory Company and Ocean State Theatre rotate through Broadway shows year-round. Tickets usually run $35-75 depending on the show. I love that Providence feels like a real working city with great culture, not just a tourist destination. The Providence River greenway is perfect for walking or biking, and downtown is totally walkable. Parking can be annoying downtown, but there’s decent public transit from Boston on Amtrak ($15-30 depending on time).
5. Baxter State Park, Maine
Baxter State Park is hands down the most underrated hiking destination in New England, and I’ll die on this hill. Mount Katahdin is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, so you’ll see some serious through-hikers, but day hikers can absolutely handle most of the 200+ miles of trails here.
The Knife Edge Trail is legitimately terrifying and absolutely incredible – if you’re afraid of heights, skip it, but if you want bragging rights, this is it. I’ve done it three times and it never gets old. Katahdin Stream Falls is an easier hike that’s perfect for families, and Chimney Pond has some of the most pristine backcountry camping I’ve found in the Northeast.
Here’s the thing about Baxter: it’s cash-only at the gates ($15 per car for day use), and they limit the number of people who can enter each day. Make reservations online well in advance, especially for summer weekends. Millinocket is your base town – grab supplies at the IGA and stay at Twin Pine Camps or one of the local motels.
The park is only accessible late spring through early fall unless you’re into serious winter camping. Moose and Black Bear sightings are common, especially early morning or late evening. I’ve seen more wildlife here than anywhere else in New England. Pack layers – weather changes fast in the mountains, and cell service is basically nonexistent once you’re in the park.
6. North Conway, New Hampshire
North Conway is the gateway to the White Mountains, and honestly, the mountain views here are ridiculous. Mount Washington is right there – you can drive up the Auto Road ($39 per car plus driver, $14 per passenger) or take the Cog Railway ($79 adults), both of which are tourist traps that are absolutely worth it.
Diana’s Baths in nearby Bartlett is one of my favorite easy hikes in New England – series of waterfalls and pools that are perfect for cooling off in summer. The Saco River is great for tubing (around $25 per person), and there are several outfitters right in town.
The outlet shopping here is no joke – Settlers’ Green Outlet Village has legitimately good deals, and there’s no sales tax in New Hampshire. Cathedral Ledge offers incredible views for minimal hiking effort – it’s basically a drive-up viewpoint with a short walk.
Conway Scenic Railroad does themed rides throughout the year ($25-65 depending on the route), and their fall foliage trips book up months in advance. The MWV Children’s Museum is surprisingly good if you’re traveling with kids. I love staying at one of the mountain resorts here – Stonehurst Manor or North Conway Mountain Inn both have that classic New England feel. Summer and fall are prime time, but winter brings serious skiing at Cranmore Mountain and the nearby big resorts.
7. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are absolutely beautiful, but timing is everything. Summer is packed with tourists and traffic, but the weather’s perfect for all the outdoor stuff. I actually prefer late September when the leaves are turning and the crowds thin out.
Cadillac Mountain is where you’ll catch the first sunrise in the U.S. from October through March – the drive up costs $30 per vehicle for a 7-day park pass. Jordan Pond Path is an easy walk with incredible mountain reflections, and the Jordan Pond House popovers are legitimately famous ($8 for two).
The lobster roll situation here is serious business. Stewman’s Lobster Pound has huge portions for around $28, while Side Street Cafe does a more refined version. Bar Island is accessible at low tide – you can literally walk across a sand bar to a small island, which is pretty cool.
Schooner sailing trips leave from Bar Harbor Marina ($45-65 per person) and give you amazing views of the coast from the water. The Shore Path is a scenic walk right along the water in town, and it’s totally free. Thunder Hole is overhyped unless there’s a big storm, but Sand Beach is genuinely beautiful even though the water’s freezing.
Book accommodations way in advance for summer – I’ve had good luck with West Street Hotel right downtown, or camping in Blackwoods Campground inside the park ($30 per night) if you want the full experience.
8. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is my hometown, so I’ve got serious opinions here. The Freedom Trail is touristy but actually fantastic – 2.5 miles of red brick leading you to 16 historical sites, and it’s completely free to walk. Fenway Park tours run year-round ($22 adults) and are worth it even if you’re not a Red Sox fan.
North End is where you go for Italian food – Mike’s Pastry gets all the attention, but Modern Pastry has better cannoli and shorter lines. Union Oyster House claims to be America’s oldest restaurant (1826), and their clam chowder is the real deal ($8 per cup). Quincy Market is a tourist trap with decent food options.
The T (subway) is your friend – $2.40 per ride, and it’ll get you most places you need to go. Cambridge is absolutely worth crossing the river for Harvard Square and MIT, plus some incredible restaurants like Craigie on Main.
Back Bay has the best shopping on Newbury Street, and the Public Garden swan boats are cheesy but fun ($4 adults). Museum of Fine Arts ($27) and Museum of Science ($29) are both world-class. I always tell visitors to walk the Esplanade along the Charles River – it’s free and gives you great city views.
Here’s what locals know: avoid driving downtown at all costs. Park in Cambridge or Somerville and take the T in. Legal Sea Foods is fine but overpriced – hit Row 34 or Neptune Oyster for better seafood.
9. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Lake Winnipesaukee is honestly one of New Hampshire’s best-kept secrets for outsiders, and I can’t believe more people don’t know about it. The lake is massive – 72 square miles of pristine water perfect for everything from jet skiing to just floating around on a pontoon.
Meredith and Wolfeboro are your main base towns. Meredith Marina has one of the largest rental fleets on the lake – their Hurricane deck boats run about $350-450 per day, and pontoons go for $300-400. Winnisquam Marine (voted #1 boat rental agency) has 35+ boats to choose from, all newer models. You’ll need a NASBLA boating certificate for anything over 25hp, but they offer temporary 14-day NH licenses right at the marina.
Weirs Beach has that classic boardwalk vibe with arcades and mini golf, plus it’s where you catch the MS Mount Washington cruise ship ($32 adults for the scenic cruise). Mount Major hiking trail gives you incredible lake views – it’s about 3.7 miles roundtrip and worth every step.
I’ve done Daley’s Adventure Boat Tours multiple times – their 3-hour private tours run $600-800 depending on group size, but you get swimming, tubing, and local history. Captain Bob knows every inch of this lake. Wake Winni does watersports lessons if you want to try wakesurfing or wakeboarding.
The M/S Mount Washington dinner cruises are actually really good ($75-95 per person), and fall foliage season here is incredible. Ellacoya State Beach is perfect for families, and Gunstock Mountain Resort is right there for skiing in winter or scenic chairlift rides in summer ($18 adults).
- Read next: My Favorite Weekend Getaway Spots in New England
- You may also like: Top Spots in White Mountains
- For more reading: Can’t-Miss Experiences in Plymouth, NH
- Keep reading: Fall in New England Guide
10. Rockport, Massachusetts
Rockport is legitimately one of my favorite hidden gems on the North Shore, and I’m almost hesitant to write about it because it’s still relatively uncrowded. Motif No. 1 is probably the most painted fishing shack in America – it’s tiny, red, and sits right on Bradley Wharf. The whole scene is ridiculously photogenic.
Bearskin Neck is where all the art galleries and shops are concentrated – it’s touristy but the quality is actually good. I’ve found some incredible local art pieces there over the years. Rockport Art Association has rotating exhibitions, and many of the galleries feature work by local artists who’ve been painting this coastline for decades.
The whale watching from nearby Gloucester is phenomenal – Cape Ann Whale Watch runs $55 for adults, and I’ve had incredible luck seeing humpbacks and finbacks. Halibut Point State Park ($5 parking) has amazing ocean views and tide pools that kids love exploring.
Roy Moore Lobster Co. has lobster rolls for around $24, and they’re the real deal – no mayo, just lobster and butter. Ellen’s Harborside is where locals eat breakfast ($8-12 for most dishes), and their blueberry pancakes are incredible.
Front Beach and Back Beach are both beautiful, though the water’s cold even in summer. I love walking the Rockport Breakwater at sunset – it’s free and gives you great harbor views. Paper House is this weird tourist attraction made entirely of rolled-up newspapers from the 1920s ($2 admission), and it’s so bizarre it’s actually worth seeing.
The best part about Rockport is that you can see everything in a day, but it’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back and spend a long weekend just painting or reading by the water.
11. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is postcard-perfect Vermont, and I mean that literally – you’ve probably seen photos of Stowe Community Church with Mount Mansfield in the background. The whole town feels like a movie set, but in the best way possible.
Stowe Mountain Resort is world-class skiing in winter ($89-119 lift tickets), but the Gondola Skyride runs year-round ($25 adults) and gives you incredible Green Mountain views. I’ve done this in both summer and fall, and the foliage views are unreal. Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s highest peak – you can hike it or take the Auto Toll Road partway up ($30 per car).
Stowe Recreation Path is 5.3 miles of paved trail perfect for biking or walking – it’s completely flat and goes through working farms and forests. AJ’s Ski & Sports rents bikes for about $35/day. Cold Hollow Cider Mill has fresh cider donuts that are legitimately addictive ($12 per dozen), and you can watch them make the cider.
The von Trapp Family Lodge (yes, that von Trapp family) does brewery tours and has a really good restaurant, though it’s pricey ($30-45 entrees). Prohibition Pig is where locals go for BBQ ($15-25 plates) and craft beer. Cabot Cheese Annex has free samples of their award-winning Vermont cheeses.
Stowe Farmers Market runs Sundays May through October and has incredible local produce and crafts. Butler Lodge is a moderate hike (4.4 miles roundtrip) that gives you amazing views of the Champlain Valley. I love that Stowe works in every season – skiing and winter sports in winter, hiking and mountain biking in summer, and some of New England’s best foliage in fall.
- Read next: Best Airbnbs in Stowe VT
12. Nantucket, Massachusetts
Nantucket is expensive but absolutely worth it, and I’ve been going there since I was a kid. The ferry from Hyannis costs $41 each way for adults, and you’ll want to book in advance during summer. Hy-Line and Steamship Authority both run regular service.
Nantucket town is where you’ll spend most of your time – cobblestone streets, cedar-shingled houses, and some of the best shopping in New England. Main Street has everything from high-end boutiques to local crafts. Cisco Brewers is actually three businesses in one location – brewery, distillery, and winery – and their outdoor space is perfect for afternoon drinking ($8-12 per drink).
‘Sconset (Siasconset) is this tiny village on the eastern side of the island with rose-covered cottages and Sankaty Head Light. The bike ride there is beautiful – Nantucket Bike Shop rents for about $30/day, and the island is completely flat so anyone can handle it.
Surfside Beach and Madaket Beach are my go-to spots for swimming and sunbathing. Surfside has lifeguards and facilities, while Madaket is more secluded and has incredible sunsets. Children’s Beach near town is perfect for families with young kids – calm water and a playground right there.
The food scene is seriously good. The Proprietors Bar & Table ($28-42 entrees) is where I go for special dinners, while Even Keel Cafe has amazing breakfast burritos for about $12. Cisco Brewers food trucks serve everything from fish tacos to BBQ.
Whaling Museum ($20 adults) is actually fascinating – the island’s whaling history is what built all those beautiful homes. Brant Point Light is tiny but photogenic, and you can walk there from town in about 15 minutes.
13. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport‘s mansion tours are incredible, but here’s what I wish someone had told me: don’t try to see them all in one day. The Breakers ($26 adults) is the most famous and largest, while The Marble House ($26) is the most opulent. Rosecliff ($26) was used in filming The Great Gatsby and has the most beautiful ballroom.
Cliff Walk is absolutely free and gives you amazing views of both the mansions and the ocean – it’s 3.5 miles total, but you can turn around whenever. The first mile is paved and easy, then it gets more rugged. I’ve done this walk dozens of times and never get tired of it.
Thames Street and Bellevue Avenue have great shopping and restaurants. The Black Pearl is famous for their clam chowder ($8 per cup), and their waterfront location is perfect. Salvation Cafe has more creative food ($18-28 entrees) and a fun, eclectic vibe.
Fort Adams ($15 adults) has amazing harbor views and interesting military history – it’s the largest coastal fortification in the US. International Tennis Hall of Fame ($15) is right downtown and has courts where you can actually play ($40/hour for grass courts).
Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival are both in summer and world-renowned – tickets run $75-150 per day depending on the lineup. First Beach (Easton’s Beach) has a boardwalk and is perfect for families, while Second Beach in Middletown is bigger and less crowded.
The Newport Wine Trail includes several local wineries – Greenvale Vineyards and Newport Vineyards both offer tastings ($15-20 per person). I love that you can walk to most attractions in Newport from downtown, though parking can be challenging in summer ($2-3/hour at meters).
- Read next: Perfect Weekend in Newport Rhode Island
14. Lake Willoughby, Vermont
Lake Willoughby is hands down the most dramatically beautiful lake in Vermont, and most people have never heard of it. The lake sits between two mountains – Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor – creating this incredible glacial canyon that looks more like the Scottish Highlands than New England.
Mount Pisgah Trail is a moderate 5.4-mile roundtrip hike that gives you incredible views down the length of the lake. I’ve done this hike in every season, and the fall foliage views are some of the best in Vermont. Mount Hor is shorter (3.8 miles roundtrip) but equally beautiful, and less crowded.
Westmore is the tiny town at the southern end of the lake – grab lunch at Willoughby General Store ($8-12 sandwiches) or stay at WilloughVale Inn right on the water. Willoughby State Forest has primitive camping ($18/night) if you want the full outdoor experience.
The swimming here is incredible – the water is crystal clear and surprisingly warm in summer. South Beach (free parking) has a small sandy area and is perfect for families. The north end of the lake is more secluded and great for kayaking. Village Sport Shop in Lyndonville (20 minutes away) rents kayaks for about $40/day.
I love that Lake Willoughby feels completely wild and untouched – no motorboat traffic, no development, just pristine mountain lake surrounded by forest. It’s about 2 hours from Burlington and makes an incredible day trip or overnight camping destination. The area gets busy during fall foliage season (late September/early October), but spring through summer it’s often just you and the mountains.
- Read next: Ultimate New England Road Trip Itinerary
- You may also like: Best Hidden Vacation Spots in the US
15. Hyannis, Massachusetts
Hyannis is your Cape Cod basecamp, and honestly, it’s way more fun than people give it credit for. Main Street has been totally revitalized with great restaurants and shops, while the harbor is legitimately beautiful and working waterfront.
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum ($12 adults) is actually really well done – the Kennedy family spent summers here, and there’s tons of authentic memorabilia and photos. Hyannis Harbor is where you catch ferries to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard – Hy-Line Cruises and Steamship Authority run regular service ($41-55 each way depending on destination).
Cape Cod Central Railroad does scenic dinner trains ($89-129 per person) that are surprisingly good – the food is decent, and the countryside views are beautiful. Cape Cod Rail Trail is perfect for biking – 22 miles of paved trail through forests and ponds. Bike Zone near the trail rents for $30-40/day.
Kalmus Beach is huge and perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing – Cape Cod Windsurfing offers lessons ($75/2 hours). Veterans Park Beach is more family-friendly with calmer water and a playground. Both have free parking, which is rare on the Cape.
The food scene is really good. Spanky’s Clam Shack has incredible fried clams ($18-22), Brazilian Grill does amazing grilled meats ($15-28), and Pain D’Avignon has the best bakery items on the Cape. Cape Cod Beer offers tours and tastings ($10) at their Hyannis location.
Harbor Point development has transformed the waterfront with new restaurants and shops. Embargo has great cocktails and harbor views, while Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse does solid Italian-American ($16-32 entrees). The whole area feels much more upscale than it did even five years ago.
I love using Hyannis as a base for exploring the rest of Cape Cod – you’re 20 minutes from Provincetown, 15 minutes from Chatham, and the Mid-Cape Highway gets you anywhere quickly. Summer is peak season, but shoulder seasons (May and September) have better weather than you’d expect and way fewer crowds.
- Read next: Amazing East Coast Spa Resorts
Recap: Exploring New England’s Best Places
I may be a bit biased, but let me say this…New England has it all. From the historic charm of Salem and the scenic beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee to the rugged wilderness of Baxter State Park, there’s something for everyone. Can you see why I’ve chosen this part of the country as my home? I’ve traveled to over 70 countries around the world, but New England’s beauty keeps me here 🙂 Plan your visit to these top spots and discover the unique charm and beauty that make New England a must-visit destination.
Check out more of my favorite travel destinations in the blog posts below!
- 9 Best Weekend Getaways in New England in 2025
- Best Places to Visit in Vermont: 12 Exciting New England Adventures in VT
- 25 Best Hikes in New England: Hiking Trails for All Skill Levels
- 30+ Unique Airbnbs in New England: Cabins + Treehouse Vacation Rentals
- Fall in the Berkshires – 8 Reasons to the Visit the Berkshires This Fall
- Best Time to Visit New England in 2025
- 9 Best Massachusetts Lighthouse to Experience Classic New England
- 15 Best Hidden Gems in New England to Visit in 2025
- Best Places to Visit in New Hampshire: 10 Amazing Things to Do in NH
- Best Things to Do in Rhode Island: 12 Essential RI Attractions
- Coolest Lake House Rentals in New England
