Thinking of visiting New England? What a great idea! With so many cool and charming towns, you’re bound to have an unforgettable time no matter where you go.
New England offers some amazing destinations and each state offers its own unique history, personality and stunning beauty. Whether you are looking to experience that quintessential New England town, have a relaxing seaside escape, or looking for some big city fun, we have you covered.
Luckily, New England is so compact that you will likely be able to get a taste of more than one state depending on how long you can stay.
So which New England State is the best to visit for your trip?
Keep reading to learn more about each state and see which one intrigues you the most for your next destination.
Massachusetts – The Bay State
Massachusetts is the most populated of the 6 New England states and the most diverse. From its historic capital city of Boston, to all the charming seaside towns, bustling seaports and stunning coastlines, Massachusetts really has it all.
If that isn’t enough, the western part of the state, known as the Berkshires, brings a rural cultural vibe to the mountainous region. Let’s not forget Cape Cod with its sophisticated islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. This summer hot spot is a favorite of some very influential people, including the Kennedy family and presidents Clinton and Obama, who frequently vacationed on the islands.
Renowned for its colonial history, Massachusetts is where the first English settlers arrived in Plymouth in December of 1620, marking the start of the New World. John Smith, the English explorer, discovered this land and in 1616 he named the region “New England” on his map.
Long before the European settlers arrived, the Native Americans occupied this land for thousands of years. Skilled in hunting, farming and fishing, the Wampanoag tribe taught the new settlers how to hunt and grow food. The following October, the Native Americans and English settlers celebrated the first “Thanksgiving” harvest together.
The Most Popular Destinations to Visit in Massachusetts
Boston, the state’s capital, is a beautiful waterfront city rich in history. It is a blend of old world charm with amazing architecture and a modern city with its sleek skyline. Filled with historical landmarks, beautiful green spaces and world-class museums, Boston is one of the coolest and most walk-able cities to explore. Be sure to check out the iconic Freedom Trail to walk the path of our fore-founders through the Boston’s most historic neighborhoods.
Visit Plymouth to step back in history and explore a living museum at Plimouth Plantation or take a peak at Plymouth Rock where the first English settlers set foot on this land.
Cambridge, set along the Charles River, is home to the prestigious Harvard University and MIT. With its many eclectic squares, Cambridge has plenty of cool restaurants, bars, museums and bookstores to enjoy.
Lexington and Concord is where the first battle of the Revolutionary War was fought. Take a day trip from Boston and follow in the footsteps of the British. Visit the Lexington Green and see the famous lanterns Paul Revere left in the North Church at the Concord Museum.
The mountainous region of the Berkshires, located in the western part of the state, is a perfect blend of cultural flair and natural beauty. The region is a favorite for leaf peeping and outdoor activities. Visit one of the many museums or take in a performance at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Looking for some adventure? Try hiking Mt. Greylock or check out Bish Bash Falls. You can even treat yourself at Canyon Ranch, an upscale Resort and Spa in Lenox.
Cape Cod is a peninsula situated on the southeastern tip of the state and is a perfect summer vacation spot with its beautiful white-sand beaches. The “Cape”, as locals call it, is made up of 4 regions: Upper Cape, Mid-Cape, Lower Cape and Outer Cape. Each of these regions has its own very distinct vibe. The islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are just a ferry ride away and a must to explore.
The North Shore is about 20 miles North of Boston and has quaint seaside towns, beautiful beaches and miles of trails to explore. Visit Gloucester, the oldest Seaport, learn about the infamous Salem Witch Trials or tour the elegant Crane Estate in Ipswich. You can even stop by Essex to try some famous Fried Clams, or head to Rockport to check out Motif No. 1, the most painted building in the world.
New Hampshire – The Granite State
With its densely forested mountains, whitewater rivers and numerous lakes, New Hampshire is the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts and family adventurers.
The state’s motto, “Live Free or Die” is a testament to their independent spirit. The state is tax-free and is 1 of only 3 states with no helmet law so don’t be surprised when you see people riding their motorcycles without head protection. Since 1920, New Hampshire has been the first state to hold the presidential primary of the season.
New Hampshire’s White Mountains cover a quarter of the state and is home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England at 6,288 feet. With over 48 4000 foot summits in the range, New Hampshire is a premier destination for hiking and skiing.
The Most Popular Destinations to Visit in New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s famous Kancamagus Highway stretches for 34.5 miles from Lincoln to Conway and is one of the most stunning scenic drives to view New England’s iconic Fall Foliage.
Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region has a collection of quaint lakeside towns and is a hot spot for sailing, boating and other water activities.
North Conway is home to over 100 outlet stores, a vintage train station and several ski resorts so there are plenty of fun activities for any season.
Conquer Mount Washington by driving, hiking or taking a scenic train ride to the top to visit the weather observatory.
Visit Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln for year round outdoor adventures.
Hike the Flume Gorge, an easy 2 mile trail with covered bridges, cascading waterfalls and a picturesque 800 foot long gorge.
Stop by the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center to pick up trail maps and all kinds of information on hiking in the area.
Take a scenic drive along New Hampshire’s Coastal Byway. This 18.5 mile stretch of road will take you by the beaches in Rye, Hampton, North Hampton and Seabrook to Portsmouth.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire’s oldest settlement, is a very walk-able historic seaside town. You’ll find a great shopping area, plenty of restaurants and an outdoor history museum, Strawberry Banke.
Vermont – The Green Mountain State
Vermont, the least populated state in the region, is quintessential New England. The quaint towns are dotted with white steepled churches, covered bridges and acres of farmlands that will take you back in time. The state is the top producer of maple syrup in the United States and famous for its cheddar cheese.
The Green Mountain Range runs through the center of the state from the Canadian border to Massachusetts. The mountains are the heart of Vermont, giving way to its nickname and plenty of options for outdoor adventures, including exceptional skiing and hiking.
Most Popular Destinations to Visit in Vermont
A scenic drive on Route 100 is a must if you are in Vermont. This 216 mile stretch of road runs along the spine of the Green Mountains, almost the entire length of Vermont.
Vermont is the only New England state that does not border the Atlantic Ocean. Instead, Lake Champlain provides miles of beautiful shoreline for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Burlington, which overlooks Lake Champlain, is the largest city in the state. This lively college town has a quaint open air marketplace, a 14 mile bike path and lots of craft beer breweries.
With the combination of its mountains and moisture from the lake, Vermont is a skier’s paradise with some of the best snow conditions in the east. There are over 26 ski resorts in the area, including Stowe and Killington.
Stowe is home to Stowe Mountain Resort offering pristine skiing. The town is also host to one of the biggest Winter Festivals and a great 5.2 mile paved bike path. The Trapp Family Lodge which is owned and operated by the famed Von Trapp family portrayed in the Sound of Music sits on 2,600 acres with stunning mountain views.
Visit Quechee Gorge, Vermont’s little Grand Canyon, to see stunning views of the canyon. The town hosts another annual Hot Air Balloon festival each June on Father’s Day weekend.
A visit to Vermont would not be complete without a stop at the famous Ben & Jerry Ice Cream Factory located in Waterbury.
Rhode Island – Ocean State
At only 48 miles long by 37 miles wide, Rhode Island is the smallest state in New England (and the entire US). But this small state really packs a punch with nearly 400 miles of spectacular coastline and over 100 beaches! It is certainly understandable how the state earned its nickname, the Ocean State.
With the thriving capital city of Providence, its sophisticated town of Newport and the unspoiled splendor of Block Island, there are so many options for a spectacular vacation.
Most Popular Destinations to Visit in Rhode Island
Newport, once a summer vacation destination for some of America’s most prominent families, is still one of the most popular destinations to visit. With its historic mansions, lively Thames Street and stunning Ocean Drive it’s no wonder this is a premier destination of New England any time of year. Be sure to check out the famous Cliff Walk and Tennis Hall of Fame.
Visit the capital city of Providence to see its signature WaterFire event or spend the day exploring the Roger Williams Zoo. Foodies will love that the city is nationally recognized for its superb dining options.
Little Compton is a rural little seaside town which portrays old fashioned New England. Here you will find a quaint little downtown, white sand beaches and a nature reservation.
Experience Block Island with its dramatic cliffs and quiet beaches. You can bike the island trail, search for the glass orbs hidden around the island or shop the boutiques.
If you will be in town over 4th of July, be sure to head to Bristol for its historic Independence Day parade. It is America’s longest-running Independence Day celebration, dating back to 1785.
Maine – The Pine Tree State
Maine, the largest state in New England, is a rural wilderness with a rugged coastline and dense forest. Its coast is dotted with lighthouses and in the quaint towns you’ll find boutique shopping, lobster shacks, magnificent cliff walks, sandy beaches and amusement parks.
Maine is home to Acadia National Park, the only National park in the region. Further north is much more rural and is a haven for snowmobilers and moose. With the forests filled with evergreen pine trees, it’s been known to smell like Christmas trees when you drive through this vast wilderness.
Maine is the primary supplier of lobster to the country and the largest producer of blueberries.
Most Popular Destinations to Visit in Maine
The Southern Maine Coastal Region, located along the first 30 miles of Maine’s coast, has an abundance of charming towns to explore. Go outlet shopping in Kittery. Visit the Yorks to see the Nubble Lighthouse or York Zoo. Soak up the sun at Ogunquit Beach, ranked #7 by Trip Advisor’s 25 best beaches in 2021. Stroll the charming town of Kennebunkport or spend a day at Old Orchard Beach’s amusement park.
Portland is a lively city with a bustling waterfront, amazing shopping and award-winning restaurants. Visit Old Port, a working fishing Port or check out the Eastern Promenade Trail where you can see spectacular views of harbor and ocean. The Portland Head Lighthouse, the most photographed lighthouse in America is a short ride from Old Port.
Maine’s Mid-Coast, known for its rugged coastline, has lots of classic coastal Maine towns that you can explore. Camden and Boothbay Harbor are beautiful seaside villages and one of the most popular destinations in this region. Explore the quaint downtown or take one of the many offshore excursions. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a great day trip where you can search out the wooden trolls or experience Gardens Aglow during the winter months.
About 4.5 hours north of Boston is Acadia National Park, one of the top 10 most visited National Parks. While the area offers incredible scenery it can also get a bit congested during the summer. Bar Harbor is a popular seaside village on Mount Desert Island and a gateway to the park. Take a drive on the park loop to get a look at Thunder Hole or picnic at Sand Beach where the coastline collides with mountains. Early risers can even watch the first ray of sun on the east coast hit Cadillac Mountain.
Head to Moosehead Lake if you are looking to explore the vast wilderness. In the warmer seasons you can hike or kayak. Once the lake freezes over it is prime snowmobiling territory. At 5 ½ hours North of Boston, you are likely to see more Moose than you will people up there.
Connecticut – Constitution State
New England’s southernmost state is influenced by New York City and has an upscale, sophisticated flair. The Connecticut River runs through the center of the state and its landscape provides plenty of natural beauty. Throughout the state you can enjoy lakes, forests, waterfalls, rivers, sandy shores and rocky coastlines.
While Massachusetts is known for creating the fried clam, Connecticut is considered the inventor of the authentic lobster roll sandwich.
Most Popular Destinations to Visit in Connecticut
In the southeast corner of the state is Connecticut’s Mystic Seaport area with its historic shipbuilding museum and aquarium.
Old Saybrook, one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Connecticut. This area was a favorite of Katherine Hepburn as she loved its stunning shoreline.
Tour the Connecticut Wine Trail to sample some exquisite red and white wines.
Connecticut is home to 2 of the largest casinos in America, Foxwoods Resort and Casino and Mohegan Sun. Take a visit to try your luck at winning big, pamper yourself at the spa, or see some live entertainment. .
Visit Yale, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. There is a museum onsite where you can see some fascinating art collections.
Take a historic train ride through the Connecticut Valley or a riverboat cruise on the Connecticut River at Essex Steam Train and Riverboat.
Enjoy a day at Lake Compounce, the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States.
The Bottom Line
While each state has their own personality, all offer stunning beauty, a bounty of cultural experiences and countless options for outdoor adventures. No matter what itinerary you decide on, you’re sure to have an amazing time in this incredible region.
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