New England is nestled in America’s Northeast corner and is a must-see destination for U.S. travelers. The region contains six states: Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
Each has terrific scenery, whether you enjoy outdoor activities or walking around museums. Where should you go in the six states? Here’s your guide to traversing New England.
Table of Contents
1. Soaking in the Rhode Island Sun
Rhode Island is the smallest state in the country, but it packs plenty of fun within its borders. It’s famous for its mansions built during the Gilded Age.
Head to Newport to see the magnificent 19th-century architecture and appreciate the artwork. The Breakers, Chateau-sur-Mer, Marble House, and Rosecliff are terrific mansions to explore.
Locals call Rhode Island the Ocean State for good reason. While small, it has 400 miles of shoreline for everyone to enjoy. Warm weather invites you to the famous Rhode Island shores for swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and other fun activities.
Check out the state’s hidden gems at Napatree Point Beach, South Shore Beach, and Warwick City Park.
2. Absorbing History in Massachusetts
If you’re a history buff, Massachusetts is the place for you. The Bay State is most famous for Boston and its historical sites, as there are plenty of free places to visit around town.
Start by walking along the Freedom Trail for a comprehensive view of the city’s past. You’ll see the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, Boston Common, and other unforgettable locations.
There’s plenty of history outside Beantown as you travel around Massachusetts. Head to Lexington and Concord to see the first battlefields of the American Revolution.
If you visit in the summer, head to Martha’s Vineyard for sandy beaches and beautiful harbor towns. The tasty seafood and beautiful houses make you feel like a New England resident.
3. Stepping Onto Ships in Connecticut
Connecticut is your first taste of New England as you cruise along the East Coast on Interstate 95.
The Constitution state is famous for its small towns, incredible autumn scenery, and Yale University. Travel to New Haven to see this historic institution as you enjoy art galleries, museums, and the Quinnipiac River.
While education is prominent in the state, Connecticut may be most famous for its shipbuilding industry. Immerse yourself in this vital sector by heading to the Mystic Seaport Museum near the Rhode Island border.
This site features old boats, ship carving exhibits, seaport villages, and numerous opportunities to learn about New England’s naval history.
4. Enjoying Seafood in Maine
Maine takes you to the end of New England and the lower 48 states, but there’s plenty to do before you enter Canada.
Locals and vacationers covet the Pine Tree State for its natural beauty everywhere you visit.
Acadia National Park is one of Maine’s most popular sites, as 4 million visitors arrive annually to enjoy nature.
When in Maine, you have no shortage of Atlantic coastline to enjoy. Do as the locals do and grab a net for lobster fishing. Maine has become famous for its lobster after an influx of this crustacean for the last three decades.
Experts say the state saw a 219% increase in lobster landings between 1994 and 2014. Make your catches count with a tasty lobster roll or a grand seafood boil.
5. Taking the Scenic Route in New Hampshire
Maine’s natural beauty extends to New Hampshire, with numerous opportunities to go outside and be active. While people laud New England summers, the Granite State is famous for winter sports when the snow falls.
Head to Mt. Monadnock near the Massachusetts border for cross-country skiing and hiking trails. Nearby East Hill Farm is excellent for getting away from everyday life.
If you like staying warm, drive your car through New Hampshire on the famous Kancamagus Highway.
This stretch of Route 112 takes you from Bath to Conway as you traverse one of the East Coast’s best places to see the leaves change colors. Use it to get to the White Mountains, a spot Bostonians use for weekend trips year-round.
6. Hiking Around Vermont
Your sweet tooth may get excited when you think of Vermont. The state leads the nation in maple syrup production, with 2.55 million gallons produced in 2022. Vermont is also famous for its Ben & Jerry’s headquarters in Waterbury.
Visit to see how the company makes its ice cream and what flavors are in the graveyard.
Once you’ve satisfied your cravings, carve out time to see Vermont’s natural beauty. The state’s nickname aptly comes from the Green Mountains extending into Canada.
Green Mountain National Forest has 147 trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. While visiting, check out the Bennington Museum for unique Revolutionary War history exhibits.
Getting the Most From Your New England Vacation
Plan a trip to New England if you like history and majestic fall views. These six states provide outdoor activities, learning opportunities, and tasty food.
The region is relatively small, so trip planning is more manageable when visiting multiple states, letting you make the most of your vacation.
