New England is a great place to go on holiday because of its history, rugged landscape, delicious seafood, and strong sports culture. It’s hard to choose where to go for the weekend because there are so many beautiful places from the coast to the mountains. That’s why U.S. News looked at more than just food and sights to find the best weekend trips in New England. Vote below to help us choose the list for next year. Plan on going to New England in the autumn?
1. Salem, MA
This Massachusetts town is about 20 miles northeast of Boston. It is best known for the witch trials that happened there in the late 1700s, and you can learn all about them on a historical walking tour. For an even bigger taste of the culture of the area, go in October, when the town is full of Halloween-themed events. You also wouldn’t want to miss the Peabody Essex Museum or The House of the Seven Gables, which was the scene for Nathaniel Hawthorne’s 1851 book of the same name.
2. Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain is in the western Maine valley of Carrabassett. It has a lot to offer travellers looking for an exciting New England weekend break. At the ski resort that bears the mountain’s name, you can enjoy many winter sports, such as cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, and more. In the summer, when it’s warmer, you can mountain bike, go zip lining, or hike parts of the famous Appalachian Trail.
3. The Berkshires
People from all over the world come to the Berkshires to get away from it all. The mountains are beautiful and have lots of trails. This part of western Massachusetts has a lot of history and culture. People love to visit cute places with narrow main streets and old homes, like Great Barrington and North Adams. The well-known Tanglewood music festival is in the town of Lenox. In Pittsfield, there are many theatres and art shops. You can go to many events in the summer, see beautiful autumn foliage, and ski a lot in the winter.
4. Block Island
Walk any direction on Block Island and you’ll end up at a free public beach. This oasis off the southern coast of Rhode Island features 17 miles of shoreline, as well as old-fashioned cottages and two historical lighthouses. Take in sweeping ocean views from Mohegan Bluffs, or look for animals at Block Island National Wildlife Refuge. If you want an adrenaline rush, try snorkeling in the island’s crystal-clear waters, biking around its picturesque perimeter or hiking its Clayhead Trail. A quick ferry ride from the mainland will take you to Block Island, making it an easy weekend retreat.
5. White Mountains
If you’re looking for a quiet place to get away in the mountains or a weekend full of fun things to do, the White Mountains have it all. The White Mountains are in parts of New Hampshire and Maine. They are a protected national park. Drive along the Kancamagus Highway for a scenic road, and you might want to stop at a campground along the way. If you go in the summer, you can hike, drive or ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway to the top of the mountain that gives the state its name. In the winter, you can shred powder on some of New England’s best ski slopes before getting cosy at a bed-and-breakfast with a hot chocolate.
6. Portsmouth
If you want to spend a weekend in New England with historic walking tours, cute bistros, and tax-free shopping, book your flight to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, today. If you want to see the best of downtown Portsmouth, Market Square, you could spend the day taking a boat tour with a guide. If you want to get some fresh air, you can go to Wallis Sands State Beach or Prescott Park and step your feet in the sand. If you go in the summer, you can see the Prescott Park Arts Festival, which turns this lovely green area into a lively place for outdoor performances.
7. Stowe, VT
Small-town charm and dramatic views make Stowe a beautiful place to visit all year, but snow lovers won’t want to miss this Vermont retreat in the winter. This New England getaway is known as the “Ski Capital of the East,” but you can also ski, snowshoe and dog sledge here. For the best views of the Adirondack Mountains, hike the Stowe Recreation Path or drive the Auto Toll Road to the top of Mount Mansfield if you want to go during the warmer months. Fans of “The Sound of Music” should go to Stowe’s Trapp Family Lodge no matter what time of year it is.
Conclusion
In concluding our journey through the 7 Best Weekend Getaways in New England, it’s evident that this picturesque region offers an array of charming destinations, each with its own unique appeal. From the coastal beauty of Cape Cod to the historic charm of Newport and the scenic landscapes of Vermont, these weekend getaways promise a delightful escape from the routine. Whether you seek relaxation by the shore, cultural exploration in vibrant cities, or outdoor adventures surrounded by nature, New England has something to offer. We hope this curated list has inspired you to plan your next weekend retreat, immersing yourself in the rich history, natural splendor, and welcoming ambiance that defines the best of New England. Happy travels, and may your weekends be filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories in this enchanting corner of the United States.
FAQ’s
Q1: What makes these weekend getaways in New England stand out?
Our selection focuses on destinations that offer a perfect blend of charm, activities, and relaxation, providing a unique weekend experience in the diverse landscapes of New England.
Q2: Are these getaways suitable for different preferences and budgets?
Absolutely. Whether you prefer coastal retreats, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures, our list caters to various preferences and includes options for different budget ranges.
Q3: What types of activities can visitors expect during a weekend getaway in New England?
Activities vary by destination but may include scenic walks, cultural explorations, outdoor adventures, and opportunities to indulge in local cuisine. Each getaway offers a range of activities to suit different interests.
