Planning a trip to New England? As a seasoned travel blogger and Boston native who has explored every corner of the Northeast, I’ve curated the top spots you must visit on your next vacation.
From stunning summer beaches to vibrant fall foliage, New England offers something for everyone. Discover cool beach towns, bustling cities, and hidden gems that only locals know about. Each destination provides unique travel experiences, from the historic charm of Boston to the scenic beauty of Acadia National Park.
With so much to see and do, New England is the perfect destination for both extended stays and weekend getaways. Let’s explore the 15 best places to visit in the northeastern US by a local.
The Best of New England: 15 Must-See Destinations
All of the locations and attractions listed below are special in their own ways, and each offers its own unique thrills. When you’re putting together your own New England road trip itinerary this year, consider including some of these truly one-of-a-kind destinations. No visit to the region would be complete without stopping by at least one or two of them.
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’s the best places in New England at a high level:
- 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
If you are someone that prefers the outdoors, then make sure to include Vermont on your list. An extremely warm and welcoming town, the people of Burlington are a diverse and friendly bunch.
The lake here is pretty much the focal point of any and all outdoor activities you could dream of. You can go running or biking along the Burlington Bike Path. Or, enjoy a day of watersports, with ample opportunities for sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. By boarding one of the ferries, you can travel to the other side of the lake and spend an afternoon in New York State.
Burlington is also home to several craft breweries that offer mouthwatering culinary delights. The wealth of tasty farm-to-table delicacies makes Burlington one of the best places to visit in New England for foodies. Don’t forget to try the city’s famous specialty: hard cider. The South End tasting room of Citizen Cider is an awesome place to spend a relaxing evening.
2. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, MA is one of New England’s most unique destinations, famed for its rich history and witch trials. Visit the Salem Witch Museum and the Witch House to delve into its eerie past. Explore historic sites like the House of the Seven Gables and stroll through the vibrant downtown filled with quirky shops and cafes. You’ll find many of my favorite restaurants in the North Shore here!
Visit Salem in October when the town comes alive with Halloween festivities, including haunted tours and the Haunted Happenings festival. The nightlife in Salem is especially cool this time of year. For a less crowded experience, late spring and early fall are also ideal.
Stay in one of Salem’s charming bed and breakfasts or boutique hotels. Don’t miss a scenic walk along the Salem Maritime National Historic Site or a ferry ride to Boston. Salem offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and spooky fun, making it a top place to see in the Northeast.
3. Portland, Maine
This lovely and somewhat eccentric town is among the most beautiful and unique places to visit in New England. Portland, Maine is positively packed with independent stores and restaurants, giving it a rich local flavor all its own.
If you love the great outdoors, there are several seasonal sights worth seeing, such as the local lobster boats. During late spring and summer, you can also explore Maine on foot or on a bicycle. Or, go on a sightseeing tour in a vintage fire truck, courtesy of the Portland Fire Engine Co. You can even don an authentic firefighting uniform, which is a wonderful photo opportunity you shouldn’t miss.
Additionally, don’t forget to check out the area’s many notable and magnificent lighthouses. Portland Head Light is particularly worth your time, ranking among the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Alternatively, you can also explore one of the world’s smallest lighthouses: the Portland Breakwater Lighthouse AKA “Bug Light.”
Best of all, just like in Burlington, food is a major highlight here. There are several small but incredible breweries and restaurants in the city. In fact, Bon Appetit magazine awarded Portland with the title of 2018’s Restaurant City of the Year.
4. Providence, Rhode Island
The capital of Rhode Island is also the most populous city of the entire state. Providence was originally established in 1636. Today, it is one of the oldest cities in all of the U.S., and also one of the most fun.
What makes Providence worthy of your time is the marvelous art scene of this city. This artistically vibrant city is bustling with artists, be they writers, painters, musicians, dancers, designers, or architects.
Make sure to explore the several museums that are dedicated to fine arts, along with the many cultural events that are held on a recurring basis, annually. These include the hotly anticipated WaterFire Providence held in May through November, and the Flickers Rhode Island International Film Festival in August.
No matter the time of the year you decide to visit Providence, it is very likely that you will be able to catch a popular Broadway play or concert in any of the numerous performing theaters across the city. If you’re searching for where to visit in New England to get your art fix, look no further.
5. Baxter State Park, Maine
Baxter State Park in Maine is a must-visit New England destination, renowned for its rugged wilderness and breathtaking landscapes. Home to Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine, it’s the ideal spot for hikers. The park offers over 200 miles of epic New England hiking trails, with the iconic Knife Edge Trail providing an exhilarating challenge. For wildlife lovers, Baxter is great for spotting moose and black bears.
Visit from late spring to early fall for the best weather and trail conditions. Stay in the nearby town of Millinocket, which offers cozy accommodations and top-notch dining options. Camping is also available within the park for a more immersive experience.
Don’t miss the serene Chimney Pond and picturesque Katahdin Stream Falls. Baxter State Park promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New England’s wilderness.
6. North Conway, New Hampshire
Known for the breathlessly gorgeous White Mountain National Forest, the community of North Conway offers a fascinating array of scenic attractions. People from all around the country and even abroad, are drawn to the enthralling beauty of these mountains, which are the tallest in all of New England. If you are up for a hike, this is one of the most spectacular spots you’ll find anywhere.
North Conway is a particularly suitable spot for a New England vacation. Despite being a mountain town, there is nothing that you can’t find here. Want to go shopping? You can surely do that. There are tons of chic boutiques and small businesses with unique wares to browse.
Furthermore, the Saco River offers some excellent jumping-off points for you to enjoy tubing or paddling. If you really want to get up close and personal with the natural landscape, however, you can go straight ahead to the nearby town of Bartlett. There, you’ll find the splendidly cascading waterfalls and serene pools of Diana’s Bath. It’s just one of the many cool places in New England for sightseers.
7. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor and its accompanying vacation spot of Acadia National Park rank high among the most awe-inspiringly beautiful places to visit in New England. Situated in the eastern part of Maine, on Mt. Desert Island, Bar Harbor is a picturesque coastal town filled with pictorial shops, lobster boats, and lovely houses.
The aforementioned Acadia National Park is located a mere 5-minute drive from central Bar Harbor. The park comprises several attractions such as sea pathways, tidal pools, opportunities for cliff climbing alongside massive boulders, and rides on horse carriages. One jaw-droppingly gorgeous sight you shouldn’t miss is the majestic Cadillac Mountain.
The perfect time to visit Bar Harbor is during the summer or early fall. Because of the relatively moderate temperatures, all the hiking trails are open and passable during this period. Also during this time, the town hosts several festivals, special tours, and outdoor events that visitors can enjoy. Among other attractions are a number of fun ranger and camping programs, as well as stargazing and sunset watching.
In terms of food, you can enjoy the delightfully delicious lobster rolls and blueberry ice cream, both of which Bar Harbour is very well known for. And if you choose to take a stroll along one of the oceanside paths, you can even cross the sand bar to Bar Harbor Island during low tide.
8. Boston, Massachusetts
If you’re a true-blue history buff, Boston, Massachusetts is definitely one of the best places to go in New England. Founded all the way back in 1630, the city has a long and storied legacy, even playing a major role in the American Revolutionary War.
Remnants and monuments paying tribute to Boston’s history can be found all over the city. Most notable is the famous Freedom Trail, a path leading visitors on a walking tour of some of the area’s biggest landmarks. And, if you’re a sports fan, don’t forget to stop by the legendary Fenway Park.
That said, if your appetites are more culinary in nature, you’re in for a treat. The city is home to numerous tasty specialties, most notably New England clam chowder, North End cannoli, and Boston baked beans.
Boston is the biggest city in all of New England, making it an ideal entry point for tourists to discover the breathtaking beauty of the region. Despite its size, Boston is very navigable and accessible. Whether you are exploring the city on foot or are taking public transportation, there’s no shortage of fun to be found here.
9. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Looking for New England places to visit that locals absolutely adore? Lake Winnipesaukee is a top New England vacation spot you should know about.
This lake is located in New Hampshire and is a great pitstop on the way to the White Mountains. With its expansive, crystal-clear waters, it’s perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Visit charming towns like Meredith and Wolfeboro for boutique shopping, dining, and local events. In summer, enjoy activities like paddleboarding and jet-skiing, or relax on sandy beaches. I’m also a big fan of a nearby town called Plymouth, which is a great spot for hiking.
Fall is also stunning, with vibrant foliage around the lake. Stay in cozy lakeside cabins or charming inns in Meredith. Take a scenic cruise on the M/S Mount Washington for unparalleled lake views. For hiking, explore the trails on nearby Mount Major. And don’t miss the iconic Weirs Beach boardwalk for family fun.
Lake Winnipesaukee offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal vacation destination in the Northeast!
10. Rockport, Massachusetts
More than just one of several cool places to visit in New England, Rockport is also one of its best-kept secrets. If you’re looking to have a good time while avoiding big crowds, Rockport is a perfect vacation destination.
Perched at the top of Cape Ann, Rockport is a phenomenally pictorial art settlement that is located by the side of the sea. Encapsulating everything that makes New England special, Rockport brings you the best sightseeing opportunities in the entire region.
The landscape is picturesque, regardless of where you stop to take the snapshot. Most notably, ‘Motif No. 1′ is a fishing shed that is actually among the most photographed places in the area. You also can explore the numerous art galleries dotted through the city.
Alternatively, if you enjoy being out on the water, you can go on one of the whale-watching trips that are held seasonally at nearby Gloucester. Or you can rent some kayaks and take a ride along the shore to explore the lovely view. There’s no prettier or more peaceful place to visit in New England than Rockport.
11. Stowe, Vermont
Another hidden gem is the small town of Stowe. It offers all the best of New England, a perfect blend of stunning classical architecture and pastoral natural beauty. To call it “postcard perfect” is an understatement. No wonder Airbnbs in Stowe are so popular!
This picturesque 200-year-old community is nestled right next to the highest peak in Vermont, called Mount Mansfield. A vacation here is like a trip back in time; you almost feel like you’ve been transported to some ancient European ski village. Indeed, winter sports enthusiasts will find Stowe’s slopes the perfect spot for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowmobiling, and ice-fishing.
It’s not uncommon for first-time tourists to fall in love with Stowe. If you can’t get enough of the local flavor, consider stopping by the Stowe Historical Society Museum. The only thing more fascinating than the area’s past is how much of it still remains in the present. Stowe really is the best place to visit in New England if you crave a return to simpler, happier times untouched by modern troubles
12. Nantucket, Massachusetts
One of New England’s most cherished destinations, Nantucket is a truly sublime place that everyone should visit at least once. Situated just 30 miles south of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, this secluded little island fully embodies the quiet, laid-back, feel-good essence of New England.
That said, Nantucket’s popularity has been very profitable for the locals. First-time visitors might find the food and accommodations relatively pricey. However, when it comes to fun activities on the island, everything else is pretty budget-friendly. This is especially true when compared to some of the larger New England cities to visit.
Here, you can enjoy a fulfilling getaway riding a rental bike on the cobblestone streets. Or, if you prefer unwinding next to the water, then make sure you pack your swimsuit and your favorite book. Why? Because it is home to some of the sunniest and stunningest beaches you’re likely to find anywhere.
13. Newport, Rhode Island
If you’re on the hunt for a vacation hotspot with a distinct sense of glamor, Newport is one of New England’s best places. In fact, it’s so renowned for its Gilded Age mansions, that, after spending a weekend in Newport, you may have a hard time deciding which one is most lavish and luxurious.
Some of the most notable of Newport’s stately 18th-century structures include The Long Wharf, the Old Colony House, the Synagogue, and the Trinity Church. The 70-room house known as The Breakers is among the biggest of all the local manors, and the most gorgeous.
On the other hand, The Marble House is even more opulent and outlandish. Reportedly, the original owners, the Vanderbilts, invested a whopping 11 million dollars to have it built back in 1892. It really has to be seen to be believed.
Offering a different kind of historical value is Fort Adams, which is considered the single largest coastal fortification in the entire United States. From here, you can enjoy one of the most striking views of the Rhode Island shoreline. With all this and more, Newport truly is one of the best places to visit in New England, especially if you want to come home with photographic souvenirs.
14. Lake Willoughby, Vermont
Lake Willoughby in Vermont is one of New England’s most stunning destinations. Known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs, it’s perfect for outdoorsy types.
Visitors can swim, kayak, and fish in the lake, or hike nearby trails like Mount Pisgah for breathtaking views. The area is particularly beautiful in the fall, with vibrant foliage reflecting on the water. I always make a point of visiting here on every New England fall foliage road trip.
Stay in the charming town of Westmore, where you’ll find cozy inns and local eateries. For a unique experience, consider camping at Willoughby State Forest. Don’t miss a sunset paddle on the lake or a relaxing picnic on its shores.
If you’re into stunning scenery and hidden gems in the US, Lake Willoughby offers a serene retreat with plenty of activities to enjoy.
15. Hyannis, Massachusetts
Hyannis, located on Cape Cod, is a top vacation destination in the Northeast. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant harbor, it’s perfect for boating, fishing, and exploring maritime activities. Visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum to delve into local history, or enjoy shopping and dining on Main Street.
Hyannis is the gateway to the Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard ferries, making day trips easy. The best time to visit is summer, when the weather is ideal for beach activities and outdoor dining. Stay in charming seaside inns or other classic East Coast resorts. Don’t miss the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail for biking and the nearby Hyannisport for picturesque coastal views.
Hyannis offers a quintessential Cape Cod experience with plenty to see and do. So it’s no wonder this is one of the best cities in New England for locals and travelers alike.
Recap: Exploring New England’s Best Places
New England is a region of diverse and captivating destinations. From the historic charm of Salem and the scenic beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee to the coastal allure of Hyannis and 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 60 countries around the world, but New England’s beauty keeps me here 🙂
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, New England offers a vacation experience that’s hard to beat. 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 2024
- 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 2024
- 9 Best Massachusetts Lighthouse to Experience Classic New England
- 15 Best Hidden Gems in New England to Visit in 2024
- 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
