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• 1 Grafton, Vermont
• 2 Sugar Hill, New Hampshire
• 3 Stockbridge, Massachusetts
• 4 Montpelier, Vermont
• 5 Hudson, New York
• 6 Frenchtown, New Jersey
• 7 Bristol, Rhode Island
• 8 Mystic, Connecticut
• 9 Castine, Maine

Northeast Vacations: The 9 Cutest Towns For Your Trip

With lighthouse-scattered coasts, bucolic countryside, rich historical ties, and too many quaint villages to count, the Northeast radiates a relaxed energy no other region could hope to replicate. Here, 9 of the cutest towns to check out next time you’re in the neighborhood.

A Brooklyn-based writer and editor, Chelsea's work has appeared in Matador Network, The Huffington Post, the TripAdvisor blog, and more. When not planning her next trip, you'll usually find her drinking way too much iced coffee (always iced—she’s from New England) or bingeing a Netflix original series.

See recent posts by Chelsea Stuart

Grafton, Vermont

One look at Grafton’s historic covered bridges, romantic country inns, family-run farmsteads, and sheep-dotted pastures, and you’ll realize that the village is a representation of small town New England at its finest. Nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains, the charming town is home to less than 600 year-round residents who regularly convene for Town Meetings (see Gilmore Girls’ Stars Hollow, for reference). Tuck your things away at Main Street’s circa-1801 Grafton Inn —right next door to the village’s iconic white steepled church—and make a beeline for Grafton Village Cheese Co. We'd argue that there's no better way to spend an afternoon than nibbling on naturally-aged, handmade variations (there’s more than 80) like truffle cheddar, 18-month emmentaler, and sheep gouda while you watch the company’s cheesemakers in action.

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Tucked away in New Hampshire’s rugged White Mountains, with stunning scenic views (especially come fall), hole-in-the-wall antique shops, and a population that hovers around just 560, Sugar Hill has all the trappings of a quintessential New England town. Swing by in June to catch the annual Celebration of Lupines , when the reborn blooms blanket Sugar Hill’s countryside in a brilliant display of blues, purples, pinks, and whites. From there, extend your outdoor time with an excursion in neighboring Franconia Notch State Park. Take a dip in Echo Lake , listen to the roaring waters of the Flume Gorge , or take a ride on an 80-person cable car at the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway. On a clear day, you can see straight across NH to Maine, Vermont, New York, and even Canada.

RELATED : Countdown to Summer: 8 Incredible Trips to Take This Summer

Stockbridge, Massachusetts

In recent years, the Massachusetts Berkshires have been luring more city slickers out of NYC and Boston than ever. Those in search of a picturesque bucolic escape look no further than Stockbridge, a resort town with relative name recognition thanks to famous resident Norman Rockwell. In fact, many visitors make the hike out to the western MA town just to glimpse the largest collection of the prolific artist's work and personal items at the Norman Rockwell Museum . Priceless art aside, it’s also worth spending some downtime at the Berkshire Botanical Garden and window-shopping the bric-a-brac-filled country stores on Historic Main Street. Once you work up an appetite, head 5 minutes down the road to No. Six Depot in West Stockbridge. The rustic small-batch coffee roaster/café/art gallery serves a mean panini (go for the porchetta with truffle aioli, hazelnut gremolata, and lemon-caper aioli) and—of course—the best caffeine fix in town.

Montpelier, Vermont

If you make the trip to Vermont—the maple syrup capital of the United States— and you don’t leave with a stash of the homemade treat, you’re doing something seriously wrong. To remedy this, start your Montpelier stay with a stop by Bragg Farm Sugar House , a family-run business that’s taught eight generations the secret to crafting perfect maple kettle corn, cookies, and candies. From there, it’s over to stylish creperie, The Skinny Pancake , to further indulge with sweet and savory options like the Pure and Simple, with Cabot butter, granulated sugar, local syrup, and the Sass-Squash, with butternut squash, VT chevre and apples, and organic spinach. Before you’re forced to leave the foothills of the Green Mountains, fit in one last food-fueled event. Swing by the Capital City Farmer’s Market so you can pick up farm-fresh produce that supports local growers.

Hudson, New York

Despite being just over two hours outside Manhattan, Hudson feels worlds away. As “Upstate’s Downtown,” the once sleepy, now trendy city is an amalgam of old-world architecture (Federal, Victorian, and Queen Anne), verdant countryside, and lively art and music scenes. If you’re visiting from the city, you have to make good on outdoor options with hikes through the hemlock-forested wilderness of Taconic State Park and Bash Bish Falls (just over the border in MA). When you need to refuel, mosey back into town for a meal in Wm Farmer & Sons ’ handsome, modern-meets-vintage dining room (akin to those you’d find in Brooklyn). Once you’ve stuffed your face with cast-iron burgers and smoked brisket on brioche, retire to Rivertown Lodge . Once a two-story movie theater, you’ll easily spot the stylish stay thanks to its enduring marquee. Inside, the aesthetic is just as pleasing as guest rooms are kitted out with custom-built furniture, white oak floors, brass bathroom faucets, and Americana-style accents.

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Frenchtown, New Jersey

Just a 1.5-hour drive from both NYC and Philly, Frenchtown presents an easy weekend getaway that rivals trips to the Poconos and Hudson Valley. Given its size (tiny), the Delaware River gem is shockingly rife with worthwhile restaurants and boutique shops that run the gamut from home decor to fine jewelry. Since you can’t shop on an empty stomach, make a pit stop at the Lovin’ Oven , a farm-to-table eatery that calls a converted manufacturing warehouse home. On Wednesday’s, they serve a three-course “Welcome Home” dinner full of comfort foods (both traditional and modified) like fish and chips, Nashville fried chicken, and vegan sloppy joes. Post-meal, it's time to peruse eclectic titles at The Book Garden . The indie shop sets up its shelves inside a 19th-century Victorian home on Bridge Street. Pro-tip: if you're looking for a cookbook, head straight for the kitchen.

Bristol, Rhode Island

Bestowed with the nickname “America’s Most Patriotic Town,” colonial-era Bristol has been proudly hosting the oldest, continuous Fourth of July celebration in the US since they threw their first shindig in 1777. Today, the annual affair includes outdoor concerts, soapbox races, an elaborate parade down Hope Street , and more, but you’ll still find plenty to see and do should your visit fall outside of July. Historical sites are a dime a dozen in this neck of the woods. Spend an afternoon at the Blithewold Mansion, Gardens, and Arboretum a 45-room, heirloom-filled estate that sits on 33 garden-framed acres overlooking Narragansett Bay, and plan time for a visit to Linden Place , as well. If the historic house museum has you feeling some sort of déjà vu, it’s likely you saw its on-screen debut in Robert Redford and Mia Farrow’s The Great Gatsby .

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Mystic, Connecticut

This destination may no longer be under wraps, but the maritime village of Mystic is still a top-notch option for those looking to relax in the Northeast. Nearly equidistance between NYC and Boston, the quaint community is brimming with B&Bs, seaside restaurants, and a world-class aquarium. Drop your bags at Spicer Mansion , a romantic, clapboard inn with only eight lavish guest rooms (think: high ceilings, four-poster beds, and antique-inspired furnishings). From there, it’s time to explore the historic downtown for small mom-and-pop shops and a slice of surprisingly good pizza from the one and only Mystic Pizza (be prepared for lots of Julia Roberts kitsch).

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Mystic, CT hotels

Castine, Maine

In midcoast Maine, on a peninsula in Penobscot Bay, you’ll find one of the state’s oldest communities: Castine. Rich in seafaring tradition, the harbor town is home to the Maine Maritime Academy, and, perhaps, it’s most easily recognizable feature, the stone Dice Head Light. For classic Maine accommodations, the seaside Pentagoet Inn has you covered. The three-story, turreted Queen Anne Victorian is all about old-fashioned details: vintage lithographs, period antiques, clawfoot tubs, and intricately carved headboards—and its location is ideal, putting you within reach of countless art galleries, flea markets, seasonal fairs, and more. Just a minute down the block, MarKel’s Bakehouse is a must when it comes time to snack. Cinnamon buns, sweet breads, scones, and to-go sandwiches all vie for attention, but once you’ve picked something sweet, retreat back to the inn to relax on the wraparound porch where wicker rockers afford guests stunning views of the bay.

What to Wear in the Northeast

Women’s outfit to wear in the hamptons, shop the look.

Longwear Foundation

Canvas Wedge Espadrilles

Men’s picnic date outfit.

Denim Shorts

Polarized Aviators

Espadrilles

Large Waterproof Picnic Blanket

Women’s classic shorts outfit to wear to florida.

Air Ruched Blouse

Belted City Shorts

Iridescent Headband

3 Chain Earrings

Cozy Adventure in the US Outfit for Men

Fleece Pullover

Slim Fit Shorts

Baseball Cap

Skateboarding Shoes

Women’s swimsuit for international beaches in the fall.

One-piece Swimsuit

Babo Botanicals SPF 30 Clear Zinc Lotion

Baltic Bracelet

Heart Sarong

Men’s stylish swimming outfit to wear in florida.

Swim Trunks

Striped Shirt

Leather Fanny Pack

Women’s Chill Romper Outfit for a Getaway from DC

Cutout Hoops

Long Sleeve Romper

Bandana Headband

Chuck Taylor®

Men’s day outfit for the east coast.

Elastic Shorts

Swingarm Sunglasses

Q Explorist Smartwatch

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15 Places you need to visit in the Northeast U.S.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Though it’s easy to become entranced by popular attractions, the Northeastern U.S. is much more than the bright lights of New York City, the historic streets of Boston, or the popular national parks in Maine. Don’t get us wrong– these spots are widely known for a reason and deserve to be seen and explored. But, it’s worth knowing there are so many lesser known places to fall in love with in this region.  

From quaint towns, breathtaking foliage, nature trails, waterfalls, mountains, and beautiful bodies of water, the terrain and features of the Northeast are diverse. Take note of this list when planning your Northeast adventure and don’t overlook places that are off the beaten path!

Massachusetts

1.  frank knowles-little river reserve.

This serene wetland adventure features a 200-foot-long suspension bridge, an old farmhouse, and plenty of wooden boardwalks. There’s roughly 9 miles of hiking trails to meander!

2.  Menemsha Hills

You’ll be rewarded by stunning ocean views and the Elizabeth Islands in the distance on this vineyard hike. The seaside cliffs are breathtaking and you can take in this popular summer destination island from a whole new vantage point atop the hills.

3.  Nick’s Lake

This family-friendly hike is located in the central Adirondacks by the town of Old Forge. On this relatively flat 6.2-mile trail, you’ll catch glimpses of the peaceful waters of Nick's Lake. A campground on the property offers a beach, bathrooms, and kayak rentals if you decide to stay the night or longer.

4.  Pillsbury Mountain

This 3.3-mile up-and-back adventure leads to panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and lakes from the top of a fire tower and a ranger station that is no longer in-use. If you're into fire towers, consider doing the Adirondack Fire Tower Hiking Challenge and checking this tower off your list!

5.  Carpenter and Angel Falls

Take yourself to the middle of a serene natural oasis on this three-mile loop! Carpenter Falls is roughly 95-feet tall, making for an impressive and photo-worthy sight. The rocks can be slippery, so be extra careful and use the ropes to assist with climbing.

Connecticut

6.  chauncey peak.

A 2.2-mile loop hike has endless views of the Giuffrida Park and town of Meridan below while at the top! Note that some of the trail markers aren’t very clear and there are a few unmarked trails. Be sure to be prepared with a trail map or proper gpx route. Download the Outbound App  to download offline maps to ensure you're on the right track!

7.  Sleeping Giant State Park

This three-mile out-and-back hike features charming wooded areas, a stone tower, and sweeping vistas. When you reach the top, be sure to explore different overlooks. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Long Island Sound. Find a private spot and sit down to take a rest or enjoy lunch with friends. This is also a great place for bouldering.

8.  Moss Glen Falls

This beautiful waterfall is located right along the scenic Route 100 - just .1 miles off the road. There’s a large parking area, making it super easy to take a quick pitstop to enjoy and photograph the falls. Go during Autumn to experience the beautiful foliage in the area!

New Hampshire

9.  mt. moosilauke.

Explore Benton State Forest while admiring the magnificent forest and mountain scenery along the way during this 7.1-mile loop hike. During the spring and summer, there are beautiful wildflowers along the way. There are several river crossings with bridges, and you can take dips to cool off during the hot summer months.

Rhode Island

10.  beavertail state park.

On the island of Jamestown, soak in true New England coastal beauty at Beavertail State Park. Explore the secluded cove beaches and stay for sunrise or sunset for an especially memorable experience. This park (and its short, dirt trails) is the perfect alternative to overcrowded beaches. There are plenty of nooks to discover and marvel in at this beautiful island state park. Don't be tempted to jump off the cliffs into the water below as it's full of jagged, dangerous rocks. Instead, follow the paths that lead down the cliffs to the beaches where you can swim without the dangers of diving.

11.  Borestone Mountain

This scenic 3.6-mile out-and-back trail is at the base of the 100 Mile Wilderness, part of the Appalachian Trail. Breathe in the fresh air and take in impressive views overlooking the surrounding mountains and lakes at the top. Colorful treetops in the autumn seem to go on forever. Note: there is an entry fee collected at the visitor center located one mile into the hike. Make sure to bring cash!

12.  Rocky Pond

Immerse yourself in the remote mountains of Northern Maine while avoiding large crowds on this one-mile out-and-back hike.The mountain views from Rocky Pond are breathtaking! Be on the lookout for moose along the shorelines - they like to eat and drink here!

13.  The Cranberry Bogs at Double Tree State Park

Before entering Double Trouble Park, you’ll pass by Double Trouble Historic Village, which features old schoolhouses, general stores, sawmills, and cottages dating back to the 1700s to 1900s. Stretch your legs by heading to the park to walk a 1.9-mile nearly flat loop trail through cranberry bogs and forest. Locals harvest tart, sweet cranberries here every year and you can purchase cranberry goods at the village shops.

Pennsylvania

14.  mill creek falls.

Visiting this easily accessible waterfall is the perfect way to get a quick nature fix and enjoy the natural beauty of this photo-worthy spot. After enjoying the falls, take a two-mile loop hike through the woods to admire glimpses of the Susquehanna River.

15.  Rose Valley Lake

Anglers should explore this pristine area in all seasons! The man-made lake is perfect for bass, bluegill, and perch fishing. For those who like spotting wildlife, there are opportunities to view plenty of birds like ducks, gulls, swans, hawks, and herons. Using a boat or kayak is the best way to explore and take in the full beauty of this stunning body of water.

Cover Photo: Tate Yoder

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Family Vacations in the Northeast USA

Michael Rickard / Getty Images

Families who live in the Northeast have a smorgasbord of wonderful vacation options within a day's drive. The region includes the six New England states (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island) as well as three in the Mid-Atlantic (New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania).

Tyler Place Family Resort: Highgate Springs, VT

Tyler Place Family Resort

One of  America's best all-inclusive resorts , the 165-acre  Tyler Place Family Resort   pioneered all-inclusive pricing during the Great Depression and has been helping families create awesome summer family vacation memories ever since. With nine age-staggered groups from babies through teens, the children's program is simply unbeatable. (Tyler Place is also on our shortlist of  top vacations with a baby and toddler .)

New York City

Scott Dunn / Getty Images

From Broadway shows to iconic sightseeing and shopping, New York City offers a slew of fun options for visiting families.

Hershey, PA

brownpau / Flickr / CC BY 2.0

Talk about sweet. Hershey is a town where lampposts are shaped like Hershey's Kisses and the pervasive candy theme is, well, just chocolate icing on the cake. The big draw is  Hersheypark ; its impressive array of roller coasters make it one of the best theme parks on the East Coast.

Acadia National Park: Mt. Desert Island, ME

heipei / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0

One of America's most visited national parks, Acadia is set on the rugged coast of Maine. The park is home to myriad plants and animals, as well as the tallest mountain on the U.S. Atlantic coast. Today visitors come to Acadia to hike granite peaks, bike historic carriage roads, or relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Whiteface Lodge: Lake Placid, NY

Whiteface Lodge

For families looking for a mountain getaway that's luxurious yet completely family-friendly, the all-suite  Whiteface Lodge  is a fabulous choice in the gorgeous Adirondacks of Upstate New York.

Harborview Nantucket: Nantucket, MA

Harborview Nantucket

Not quite a vacation rental, but not quite a hotel, Harborview Nantucket is comprised of 11 impeccably designed luxury cottages that frame a green lawn beside a boat-filled harbor cove in Nantucket. The property is a wonderful oasis in this bustling little town, and it would make a super home base for multi-generational gatherings or reunions. 

Ogunquit, ME

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The Algonquin Indians named it  Ogunquit , or “beautiful place by the sea.” A jewel along the southern Maine coast, the pretty village of Ogunquit delights families with a stunning coastal walk, wonderful beach, saltwater taffy, lobstering cruises, and lots of unpretentious family fun.

Philadelphia, PA

Drew Angerer / Getty Images

As if the Liberty Bell and cheesesteak weren't enough, there are many more fantastic reasons to bring your kids in and around Philadelphia .

Mohonk Mountain House: New Paltz, NY

Fred Hsu / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

The 250+ room  Mohonk Mountain House  overlooks sprawling grounds containing a pristine lake, 85 miles of hiking trails, a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, stables, and a grand lawn where families can watch movies in the open air. Kids ages four to 12 can participate in the award-winning children’s program that includes guided nature walks, animal tracking, and fossil hunts.

Skytop Lodge: Skytop, PA

Skytop Lodge

The oh-so-grand  Skytop Lodge  in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains has been welcoming families since 1928. There's a huge choice of activities, including zip-lining, kayaking, archery, tennis, boating, biking, rock climbing, and hiking, plus an excellent supervised children’s program, and golfers get a bonus that’s virtually unheard of: Unlimited greens fees. 

The Sagamore: Lake George, NY

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

For families looking for a lake getaway that's luxurious yet completely family-friendly, The Sagamore is a wonderful choice on spectacular Lake George in the foothills of New York's Adirondack Mountains.

Upper Cape Cod, MA

Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism / Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0

The most westerly region of Cape Cod—Bourne, Sandwich, Mashpee, Falmouth, and Woods Hole—make up the Upper Cape . Life is a bit sleepier here than on the Outer Cape. The beaches are a bit calmer and prices a bit lower, too, which combine to make this an ideal getaway with kids. 

Winnetu Resort: Martha's Vineyard, MA

Winnetu Oceanside Resort

The upscale  Winnetu  Resort on Martha's Vineyard is wonderfully family-friendly, offering spacious accommodations, family-friendly dining, babysitting, and children's activity programs for kids ages three to 12 as well as for teens.

Woodstock Inn & Resort: Woodstock, VT

Woodstock Inn & Resort

For families looking for a relaxing Vermont getaway with a host of family activities, the Woodstock Inn & Resort is an excellent upscale choice. This four-season resort where family time means games and hikes, farm visits, and afternoon cookies and cider.

Rocking Horse Ranch: Highland, NY

Rocking Horse Ranch Resort

Rocking Horse Ranch  is a popular, extremely kid-centric dude ranch in the hinterland of the Hudson Valley. Besides the usual ranch activities such as horseback riding and hay rides, there's an enormous wagonload of other fun things to do, such as rock climbing, archery, swimming, tennis, and more.

Great Wolf Lodge New England: Fitchburg, MA

Great Wolf Lodge

The wildly popular Great Wolf Lodge chain of indoor water park resorts opened its first New England property in the Boston area in 2014. At 68,000 square feet, the indoor water park is the largest in Massachusetts.

Providence Biltmore: Providence, RI

Providence Biltmore

The grandest hotel in the Creative Capital, the Providence Biltmore opened in 1922 and has been wowing guests ever since.

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Twin Farms Arrow

Twin Farms, an 18th-century Southern Vermont farmhouse that once belonged to Nobel Prize–winning writer Sinclair Lewis, is the perfect spot to get away from the city and relax amid maple and pine trees. Our readers laud the first-rate service at this rural retreat. One of only a handful of Relais & Chateaux properties in New England, the food here is superb, with chef Nathan Rich putting together a highly seasonal menu drawn from Vermont produce, meats, and dairy. Beyond the dining room, there’s a guide readily available for walks through the surrounding woods, an on-call chauffeur for local outings, and even someone to bring you milk and cookies at any hour.

Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa Arrow

The Lodge at Spruce Peak Arrow

"Nestled into the mountainside in the quintessential storybook town of Stowe," this alpine ski lodge offers views of Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Rooms in earth tones of rust, orange, sage, and blue have goose-down duvets—"pluses are the fireplace and kitchenettes." Among the amenities are an on-site performing arts center and a kids’ spa for children ages six and up. Solstice supplies a menu "fit for a king"—think handmade ricotta gnocchi and Atlantic diver scallops—while Hourglass has regional microbrews on tap. "The staff are very friendly and accommodating," and the service includes a ski valet—"a great touch." "A fabulous experience from start to finish."

Omni Mount Washington Resort Arrow

Like many of the hotels on this list, the Omni is a grand space with a history stretching back to 1902. What sets it apart is its famous clientele—noteworthy guests include Thomas Edison and three U.S. presidents. A stroll down the magnificent porch offers views of the woodlands of White Mountain National Forest, including an excellent perch to see fall foliage changing colors. (The trees in the surrounding mountains sometimes turn as red as the hotel’s roof.)

Ocean House Arrow

It's easy to turn back time at the Ocean House. Propped up on a magnificent bluff overlooking Little Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island’s historic Watch Hill neighborhood, the rambling, sunshine yellow Victorian structure recalls the days of the Grand Tour, when men of means would gallivant around the world, and the wealthy were lured from the city to the sea come summer. Though the porticoed property had 159 rooms when it opened in 1868, it ultimately fell into disrepair and was shuttered in 2003. But a $146 million facelift in 2010 left it shiny and new—and a lot roomier. It now has 49 rooms and 18 signature suites, all of which are breezy, bright, and pinstriped, capturing the beach feel but still managing to feel luxurious.

Wequassett Resort and Golf Club Arrow

At this waterfront Cape Cod resort—whose name means "crescent on the water"—"the service is warm and personal." Design includes classic cedar shingles, English-style gardens, fire pits, and nautically inspired rooms with "breathtaking ocean and bay views." At Twenty-eight Atlantic, you can have the Petite Clam Bake—butter-poached lobster, Yukon Gold potatoes, and corn pudding—while gazing at the bay through the eight-foot windows. Come cocktail hour, head to the clubby Thoreau’s and sink into a leather chair by the granite fireplace. "Everything about this place is extraordinary."

The Point Arrow

Inn by the Sea Arrow

A stately hotel set right on the waterfront in Cape Elizabeth, the Inn by the Sea is an all-immersive escape. Its pristine lawn, dotted with Adirondack chairs, offers views of the coast, and its poolside patio is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon, glass of wine in-hand. Newly built Cove Suites feature two bedrooms, a luxe bathroom with an oversized tub, an ample dining area, and a full kitchen. The Inn also has one of the best spas in the state and unbeatable views of Crescent Beach.

Hidden Pond Arrow

Drive down the subtly marked dirt road into the resort, and the first thing you come upon is a garden on your right and a small pond on your left. Slowly, you realize that tucked between them and the countless birch trees are cottages and treehouse suites. Hidden Pond has been expanding over the decade-plus since it opened, adding private bungalows and cottages and one of the standout restaurants in the entire state in Earth. Personal, quiet, and soothing, but with plenty of activities for all ages, this is one of those places people come back to again and again.

The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club Arrow

Ah, to disappear into a thicket of dunes as the summer quiets to a close: At this rambling estate in sleepy Brewster, MA, near Cape Cod, it’s no daydream. The Mansion is one of two options at Ocean Edge (the other, Villages, overlooks the Cape’s sole Nicklaus-designed golf course, but is sadly deprived of direct beach access at Bay Pines), where rooms overlook the bay, and a beach, bar, and two pools are only a short footfall away. All told, it’s hard to resist the pull of this blue-blooded hideout, with its quintessentially Cape Cod décor (inoffensive shades of salmon, coral, and baby blue, and prim, white wooden furniture at every turn) and pleasantly low-key vibes. Test out your new set of whites at one of the nine on-site tennis courts, then celebrate your victory (and even a good-natured loss) with a Stress Solution facial at the spa. An unholy relaxation trifecta, the treatment advertises a gentle cleansing scrub, a head and neck massage dribbled in therapeutic oils, and a custom mask infused with calming plant extracts. Bayzo's pub is analogous to an English tavern, with creamy cups of clam chowder and a piano likely to launch you into Elton John renditions.

The Villages at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club Arrow

The Preserve Sporting Club & Residences Arrow

Under Canvas Acadia Arrow

Under Canvas Acadia offers everything that brought you to Acadia in the first place—dense woods, a rugged shoreline, a sense of being completely enveloped by nature—yet it’s also meant to compliment the time you’ll spend in the National Park each day, with the comfort of real beds, a campfire to cozy around each night, and grown-up camping meals that’ll reward you for days of hiking.

Winnetu Oceanside Resort Arrow

Edgartown can get a bit crowded during summer high season; traffic is heavy and parking can be a hassle. The Winnetu Oceanside Resort offers a respite from the hustle and bustle with a gamut of activities that run from tennis and yoga to a ride on an antique fire truck. Before you leave make sure to play a game of giant chess on their life-sized board. En passant!

The Otesaga Resort Hotel Arrow

Gurney’s Montauk Arrow

The only luxury hotel in the Hamptons that is located right on a private beach, Gurney’s is the epitome of summer vacationing offering warm sun, an excellent seaside food and drink program, a destination spa, and fabulous people watching.  The style is minimalist and sleek, which helps to draw your attention to the real focal point: the ocean waves. All rooms come with access to The Beach Club which is, frankly, the best perk of them all.

Trapp Family Lodge Arrow

Samoset Resort Arrow

Invoking the natural beauty of its seaside surroundings, the "exceptional" and "relaxing" Spa at the Samoset presents an array of treatment options in four private rooms and an outdoor patio overlooking "pristine" Penobscot Bay. Detoxifying seaweed wraps and sea salt exfoliation infuse pampering with ocean inspiration. Those looking for a personal touch can select the Samoset Signature Perfect Massage, which allows guests to customize their experience with available techniques ranging from Swedish to hot stones.

Mohonk Mountain House Arrow

If you're looking to escape, come here. It's the purest form of relaxation, and you can make as much of everything it offers as you like. A secluded sanctuary, the hotel itself resides on a spectacular mountain preserve and looks out onto a large lake. Rooms are homey and classic, with porches outfitted with rocking chairs. Mohonk provides a daily schedule with something to do at any and every hour. Best of all, there's something for everyone, from yoga to golf, archery to horseback riding, and even wine tasting. Food is included in your daily room rate, and there's daily afternoon tea and cookies, as well as a library (complete with complementary reading glasses, just in case you've misplaced yours) where you can read the paper in front of a warm fire.

Woodstock Inn & Resort Arrow

Newport Harbor Island Resort Arrow

The Sagamore Resort Arrow

Perched on "the edge of Lake George," the recently renovated Spa at the Sagamore provides visitors with a medley of eclectic treatment choices. Tranquil private rooms, an indoor hydrotherapy space, and a waterfront spa area set the stage for the Adirondack Hot Stone Massages, Green Island Sugar Scrub, and Rose Hydrating Cocoon treatment. Guests who pick the spa's signature Sagamore Custom Facial receive personalized, attentive care targeting their individual skin concerns.

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Kate Abroad

The Ultimate 10 Day Northeast USA Itinerary (+ 1 and 2 week options)

Thinking of visiting the Northeastern Region of the USA? Look no further than this 10 day Northeastern USA travel itinerary.

The Northeast region of the United States is a beautiful and historically rich area that offers a ton of unique travel experiences. Whether you’re interested in exploring bustling cities, enjoying the great outdoors, or soaking up some American history, there’s something for everyone in the Northeast.

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning the perfect itinerary can be overwhelming. But don’t stress, in this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of planning your Northeast USA travel itinerary. We’ll cover all the must-see destinations, the best times to visit, and plenty of tips to help you make the most of your trip.

From the stunning fall foliage in New England to the towering skyscrapers of New York City, the Northeast has it all. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoors enthusiast, the Northeast is sure to exceed your expectations. So block out your calendar and get ready to explore the very best that the Northeastern USA has to offer!

First a note: these itineraries all start in New York because for international travellers that’s typically the cheapest place to fly in and out of with the most airports and flight options. However, if you’re already in the USA or not concerned about flight costs, it would make sense to start at Boston (the northernmost point on the itinerary) and work your way south or vice versa.

How to get around the Northeastern USA

This itinerary is designed so that you can do it either as a 10 day Northeast USA road trip or travel by bus or train if you prefer not to drive. I’ve personally done it both ways and can tell you the trains are the easiest and most affordable way to get around in the Northeast.

All of the destinations on these itineraries (including the 1 and 2 week options) are along Amtrak’s Northeast Regional train route so you don’t even need to worry about train connections. Most trains stations in the Northeast are right in the center of each city, so you can walk straight off the train and start exploring.

The 10 Day Northeast USA road/train trip itinerary

Days 1-3: new york.

There’s no better place to start a USA road trip than the Big Apple, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of…. While you can (and I have) easily spend a week or more in NYC, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the highlights and get a taste.

It can be overwhelming to know where to start so to make it easy I recommend dedicating one day to each of Midtown and Downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Day 1 – Midtown Manhattan: Start your day in Times Square, the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan. There’s no better place to take in the bright lights and energy of the city. Here, you can shop at the many stores and boutiques (don’t miss the 3 storey M&Ms store) and grab breakfast or coffee at one of the many cafes.

From there, head to the  Empire State Building , where you can take in breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. Next, visit the iconic Grand Central Terminal, one of the busiest train stations in the world and a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture.

End your day with a visit to Central Park, the iconic park that spans 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan. Here, you can have a picnic, go for a jog, rent a boat, or simply relax and people watch. It’s not advised to do a carriage ride as some horses may be mistreated.

Day 2 – Downtown Manhattan: Start your day in Battery Park, where you can catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You have the option of either the free Staten Island Ferry that goes past Liberty Island or the  paid Statue Cruises that lets you get off on Liberty Island, I’ve done both and the paid version is worth the money.

Afterward, take a stroll through the historic Financial District, where you can see the New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull statue, and the extremely moving 9/11 Memorial.

If you’re keen for more views you can head up the One World Trade Center Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

End your day with a stroll through the trendy neighborhoods of SoHo and Greenwich Village, where you can shop, dine, and people-watch to your heart’s content.

Day 3 – Brooklyn and Uptown: On the last day in NYC, make your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, walk around the waterfront with its panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, get your photos in DUMBO and eat your way through Time Out Market.

If you have extra time, explore the Brooklyn Botanic Garden or visit the Brooklyn Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Then spend the afternoon taking in thousands of years of art at The Met and seeing how the other half live on the Upper East Side.

From there, take a subway ride up to Harlem, where you can explore the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage, visit the famous Apollo Theater, and grab dinner at one of the many soul food restaurants.

To help save money on attractions, try a  Go City pass . They have 2 and 3 day all-inclusive passes that would be perfect for this itinerary –  click here to see how you can save .

Finally, don’t forget to make time for plenty of pizza slices, bagels, pretzels and hot dogs!

• Luxury:  Kixby
• Mid-range:  Hotel Indigo Downtown
• Budget:  HI USA Hostel

Click here to compare NYC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 4-5: Boston

Drive: 220 miles – approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Moynihan Train Hall – approx. 4 hours

After the craziness of New York, head up north to the relative calm of Boston, Massachusetts. Boston is a city steeped in history and culture but despite its historic nature the crazy number of universities in Boston means the city has a very young, fun vibe. With world-class museums, delicious food, and beautiful parks, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Start your trip with a walk along the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that takes you through some of Boston’s most important historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution Museum. Along the way, you’ll learn about the events leading up to the American Revolution and the role Boston played in shaping the country’s history.

There are plenty of  walking tours available  but I’d recommend just downloading an audio guide for the Freedom Trail and going at your own pace. And don’t miss the Boston Public Library, it might not be on the Freedom Trail but it was my favourite spot.

Next, head over to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can explore over 450,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s collections range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, and there’s something for every taste and interest.

If you’re a sports fan, make sure to catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. And if baseball isn’t your thing, try an ice hockey game, I can promise it will make for a memorable experience.

For foodies, Boston is a paradise with both fresh New England seafood and quality Italian cuisine on offer. Make sure to try the city’s signature clam chowder and lobster rolls as well as Boston cream pie (go to Omni Parker House for the original version), and cannoli from Mike’s Pastry or Modern Pastry in the North End.

Finally, take a stroll through the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest public park in the country. With over 50 acres of green space, the park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

On your second day in Boston, head out to Cambridge to see the Harvard campus (students run  walking tours ) and try some of the fun student bars.

If you have extra time, you can take the train out to Salem to explore the witchy museums and filming locations. It’s only a short ride from North Station or you can take a  day tour from Boston . 

• Luxury:  The Liberty Hotel
• Mid-range:  Revolution Hotel
• Budget:  Found Boston Common

Click here to compare Boston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 6: Providence/Newport

Drive: 50 miles – approx. 1 hour

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Back Bay or South Boston and local bus to Newport – approx. 2 hours total

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, might not be on every Northeast itinerary but it’s very much worth a visit.  

Providence itself is quite a small town with a very compact city centre. There are a couple of decent things to do in Providence itself, including visiting the Rhode Island State Capitol – unlike the one in DC, here you’re allowed to just wander around at will and see all the rooms – and the Brown University campus.

However, the number one reason for coming to Providence is because it’s the gateway to Newport, which you’ll want to dedicate most of the day to seeing. 

Newport is a beautiful seaside town full of cute boutiques and restaurants, but its biggest draw is the Gilded Age mansions.  These homes are straight out of The Great Gatsby, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of America’s wealthiest families during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

These grand estates are designed to feel very like European palaces with grand ballrooms, ornate gardens, and stunning ocean views. You can tour these mansions and learn about the families who lived there, including the Vanderbilts, Astors, and Morgans. I recommend picking 2-3 and using the audio tours which are included with your tickets and are super informative.

While you’re in Newport check out the Cliff Walk, a stunning (but windy) hike along the ocean. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or some of the famous New England clam chowder.

• Luxury:  The Beatrice
• Mid-range:  Graduate Providence
• Budget:  Courtyard by Marriott Providence Downtown

Click here to compare Providence accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 7-8: Philadelphia 

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Providence – approx. 5.5 hours

When in Philadelphia, the must-visit attraction is Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed. To visit, you’ll need to book tickets through the National Parks website several weeks (ideally months) in advance of your trip as numbers are strictly limited and security is tight.

Even if you miss out on tickets to Independence Hall you can still line up to go see the Liberty Bell across the street and wander through the remains of George Washington’s house.

Next head across town to another of Philadelphia awesome free attractions, the Philadelphia Museum of Art. This beautiful neoclassical building boasts works from van Gogh and Monet, among many many others.

Finish the day with a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary, one of the most famous and haunted prisons in the world. The prison’s notable inmates, include Al Capone and the bank robber “Slick Willie”. If you’re brave enough, sign up for the night tour to discover the spookiest stories from the prison’s history.

Start your second day in Philadelphia with a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution , where you can learn about the events leading up to the American Revolution and the impact it had on the country and the world. The museum features interactive exhibits, including a replica of a colonial-era privateer ship and Goerge Washington’s tent. We enjoyed the short talks from the educators explaining the artefacts in each room.

If you’re a really dedicated fan of America history you can also head over to the Betsy Ross House, where the first American flag was allegedly sewn and take a guided tour of the house to learn about the life of Betsy Ross and the history of the flag.

For lunch head to the Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in the country. This is a food’es paradise and the place to go to try local dishes including Philly cheesesteaks, Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels, and Amish donuts.

If you haven’t succumbed to a food coma then spend the rest of the day strolling through the historic district and waterfront, where you can see many other historic sites, including Franklin Court, site of Benjamin Franklin’s home.

• Luxury:  The Franklin on Rittenhouse
• Mid-range:  The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
• Budget:  Apple Hostels of Philadelphia

Click here to compare Philly accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 9-10: Washington DC

Drive: 150 miles – approx. 2.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Philadelphia 30 th  Street – approx. 2 hours

There’s no better place to wrap up your vacation in the Northeast United States than in the nation’s capital: Washington, D.C.

One of the best things about visiting D.C. is how much you can do for free. The city is home to countless museums, galleries, monuments, and historic buildings that are open to the public.

However, one important piece of advice: it’s essential to plan ahead and book your visits. Many places will book out months in advance, and even those that allow some walk-ins will often require you to spend a long time queuing outside which is no fun in the heat/wind/rain.

If you’re hoping to tour the White House, don’t expect it to be easy. The booking process requires US residents to apply through their local congressman process. The White House website suggests that foreigners can apply through their embassy, but we found that our embassies weren’t even taking bookings.

The Capitol, on the other hand, is much easier to get into, you do need to book but they can get large numbers of visitors through in a day so it’s not hard to get tickets. The Capitol is a must-do. You can’t see in the actual Senate or House chambers but the beautiful rotunda and National Statuary Hall are well worth it in themselves, we loved seeing the statues each state had chosen to donate.

Continuing on the must-see attractions in D.C., walking along the National Mall is a must. This beautiful parkland features the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and a variety of other monuments and memorials.

If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the National Gallery. This beautiful museum houses tons of amazing artworks including one by Leonardo Da Vinci. Whatever your interests, D.C. is sure to delight and inspire you with its wealth of cultural and historic offerings.

• Luxury:  Eaton DC
• Mid-range:  Lyle DC
• Budget:  Hotel Harrington

Click here to compare DC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Alternative: 1 week Northeast USA itinerary 

This shortened itinerary is very action-packed, suited to fast-paced travellers and those who want to see as much as possible in one trip. 

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC

Alternative: 2 week Northeast USA itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in, while also allowing some extra time in the top destinations for those who prefer to take things at a slower pace. 

• Providence/Newport

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Northeastern USA

True to the name, the Northeast covers the area from the Canadian border in the North down to (depending on who you ask) Washington DC on the Virginia border and inland as far as the Ohio border including 11 states.

To avoid the summer crowds and the freezing Northeastern winters, the best time to visit is in late spring (May-June) and early fall (October-November), these are also good times to catch the cherry blossoms or the fall foliage respectively.

For a first-time visitor, 10 days is enough time to see the highlights of the American Northeast but if you can stay a full 2 weeks you’ll get to see even more.

In Short: 10 Days in the Northeastern USA

It’s hard to narrow down the best parts of the Northeast to a short itinerary as there’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see this part of the USA. Hopefully, these Northeast USA itineraries give you some inspiration to get started!

For more USA travel inspiration, check out these articles:

• East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary
• Best Midwest Holiday Destinations

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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The 14 best day trips & weekend getaways in the US Northeast

Sep 24, 2020 • 6 min read

The US capital offers some great escapes from the big city noise ©Lingxiao Xie/500px

The Northeast is a haven for day-trippers. New York City is the gateway to a constellation of escapes to beaches, mountains, historic sites, pretty villages and more. Almost half of New England is within easy distance of Boston, from the cow-dotted hills to the tumbling gray seas of Maine. From Washington, DC, head south to Virginia for syrupy-paced country life, west to the Appalachian mountains, north to bustling Philadelphia, or east to the Maryland shore for seaside escapes.

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Best day trips from New York City

Thomas edison national historical park, west orange, new jersey.

You can still sense Thomas Edison’s brilliance and tireless pursuit of knowledge at his sprawling workshops in West Orange, New Jersey. At the Thomas Edison National Historical Park , visit the actual labs where he and his researchers perfected the light bulb by methodically testing 6000 substances and 3000 designs, beginning in the 1870s. 1hr by train & bus from Penn Station.

Rockaway Beach, New York

Surfboards on the subway? A surprising sight, no doubt, but it’s a quick subway (or scenic ferry ride) from Manhattan to the break at the white-sand beach off 90th St in the Rockaways. A tight-knit group of Atlantic wave worshippers has revitalized this section of the beachfront. If you’ve forgotten your board, watch the action from a beachside cafe. 1hr by ferry or 1hr 20min by subway.

Asbury Park, New Jersey

Hard by the Atlantic Ocean, Asbury Park is where New Jersey’s troubadour, Bruce Springsteen, got his start in the mid-1970s. The first stop for everyone is the Stone Pony, the bar where he launched his career. Another 40 bars, many with live music, lure trains full of young NY-based revelers. Blocks of restored Victorian homes and newer units are also attracting New Yorkers’ attention. 2hr by train from Penn Station.

Woodstock, New York

A minor detail: the 1969 music festival was actually held in Bethel, an hour’s drive west. Nonetheless, the perfectly quaint town of Woodstock still attracts an arty, music-loving crowd and cultivates the free spirit of that era, with rainbow tie-dye style and local grassroots everything, from radio to a respected indie film festival and a farmers market (fittingly billed as a farm festival). 2hr 30min by car.

See more day trips from New York City .

Best day trips from Boston

Providence, rhode island.

The capital of America’s smallest state offers a quirky good time. Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) give the city an arty, youthful vibe, with excellent coffee shops, dive bars, used bookstores and indie theatres. Hit Waterplace Park for art installations and summer concerts. 1hr by car or 30min by train from South Station.

Western Massachusetts

It wouldn’t be fall in New England without hot apple cider and cinnamon-spiked cider donuts, both harvest traditions in the apple orchards of western Mass. You can create a whole day of autumn memories at fourth-generation family-run Red Apple Farm in Phillipston. Pick from 50 varieties of apples, munch donuts and fudge, visit the goats, take a hayride, then sip an apple beer in the seasonal "Brew Barn." 1hr 10min by car.

Mystic, Connecticut

This seaside village was once one of America’s most important whaling and shipbuilding centers, and Mystic now trades on its salty history. Visit the Charles W. Morgan, the world’s oldest wooden whaling ship, at the 40-acre Mystic Seaport Museum , wander the historic riverfront downtown, take a schooner cruise, then tuck into clam chowder at the Captain Daniel Packer Inne , dating from 1756. 1hr 30min by car or by train from South Station.

Oak Bluffs, Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

The town of Oak Bluffs on elite Martha’s Vineyard, only accessible by air or ferry, has been a favorite destination of well-heeled African-American families for more than a century. Take a walking tour on the African-American Heritage Trail . Then relax at The Inkwell beach, whose once-pejorative name is now embraced. 2hr 30min by car & ferry or bus & ferry.

See more day trips from Boston .

Best day trips from Philadelphia

Brandywine valley, pennsylvania.

Running north from the Pennsylvania−Delaware border southwest of Philadelphia, the Brandywine Valley is a patchwork of rolling, wooded countryside, historic villages, gardens, mansions and museums. Spend a day at the Longwood Gardens ; virtually every inch of the 1050 acres has been carefully sculpted into a display of horticultural magnificence. 1hr by car.

Amish Country, Pennsylvania

Buggies still ply the roads of southeastern Pennsylvania, home to the simple-living, modern technology-shunning Amish. So if you’re looking to escape the rat race for a while, this is the place. Shop Lancaster Central Market for Amish-grown veggies and handmade quilts. Chow on traditional treats like apple dumplings and shoofly pie. Ride a buggy or take a farm tour. 1hr 40min by car.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

If you’ve got kids (or just a sweet tooth), go directly to rural Pennsylvania’s Hershey’s Chocolate World for a tram ride through a chocolate factory of singing animatronic candies. Afterward, hit the airplane hangar-sized gift shop for Hershey’s Kisses the size of your head, then head across the street to the century-old Hersheypark for all-American try-to-make-you-hurl amusement park rides and a seasonal waterpark. 1hr 50min by car.

Best day trips from Washington, DC

Shenandoah national park.

Less than 90 minutes after escaping the snarl of DC traffic, you’ll find yourself coasting along the backbone of the Blue Ridge Mountains on Skyline Drive, one of the most glorious roads in America. Running down the center of Shenandoah National Park, it passes meadows of grazing deer, ancient hardwood forests and the craggy peaks of Hawksbill and Old Rag mountains. Hike, picnic, animal-watch, camp, repeat. 1hr 20min by car.

Berkeley Springs, West Virginia

The mineral waters in these mountains drew Native Americans for thousands of years before they attracted colonials like George Washington. Today, Berkeley Springs is a quirky spa town with a handful of hot spring hotels, galleries and mom-and-pop cafes. Soak for cheap in the historic Roman Bathhouse at Berkeley Springs State Park or splash out on a private whirlpool at Renaissance Spa. 1hr 50min by car.

Ocean City, Maryland

Sometimes all you want from a summer weekend is a lump of fried dough, a walk on the boardwalk and an airbrushed T-shirt with your face on it. So go "down the ocean," as the Marylanders say, to this beloved Eastern Shore beach. Quintessential Ocean City pastimes include fishing, minigolf, all-you-can-eat crab feasts, drinking at tiki bars and riding rickety carnival rollercoasters. Do it all! 2hr 40min by car.

See more day trips from Washington, DC .

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10 Overlooked Places to Visit in the Northeast This Summer

When you think about northeast America, you probably picture New York, Boston, and Philadelphia. These are some great cities to visit, but the northeast has so much more to offer.

From the formal gardens of Brandywine Valley in Pennsylvania to the bear sanctuary of Shenandoah National Park, we’ve put together a list of ten overlooked but incredible places to visit in the northeast this summer .

What to Pack

It gets pretty hot in the northeast during the summer. The hot season lasts for almost four months, from May to September, with an average temperature of over 76°F. The hottest month is July, and you can expect an average high temperature of 85°F.

With such high temperatures, it’s important to pack for the weather:

• Lightweight, breathable fabrics are a must for keeping cool while exploring.
• Don’t forget a hat for added protection from the midday sun.
• Sunscreen is a must to protect your skin, whether you’re hiking or sipping cocktails at a beach bar.
• Comfortable sandals or breathable walking shoes will be best for long days of sightseeing while looking good on your travels .

Places to Visit in the Northeast This Summer

Here are our top ten favorite places to visit in the northeast and what you can expect on each trip.

Brandywine Valley, Pennsylvania

Brandywine Valley is known for its beautiful, formal gardens and unique American Castles. Longwood Gardens is particularly popular and renowned for its landscape. The estate is dotted with planted conservatories, fountains, and thousands of acres of gardens and woodland to explore.

There are also several museums in Brandywine that are a must-visit. The Winterthur Museum and Gardens has an impressive collection of furniture and decorative art, as well as a research library.

You can also visit the Brandywine River Museum, which homes an unrivaled collection of art curated by the Wyeth family.

If you’re looking for a place of natural beauty and rich history, Brandywine Valley in Pennsylvania is the trip for you.

Acadia National Park, ME

Sitting on the coast of Maine, sprawling across Mount Desert Island; you’ll find Acadia National Park. It has over 47,000 acres of breathtaking landscape and wildlife and tons of activities to keep you busy year-round.

Whether you’re into winter skiing, summer hiking, or spring fishing, Acadia National Park is the perfect spot. Make sure to start at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center to learn more about the park , or head to the Welcome Center at Rockefeller Hall for fewer crowds.

Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic was once a shipbuilding seaport village that was first settled back in 1654. Today, the town treasures its maritime history and is dripping in New England charm.

Downtown Mystic has a fantastic food and drink scene with some of the best fresh seafood you’ll find. While Main Street is dotted with local shops, eateries, and galleries to explore.

The town only covered four square miles, but there’s a lot packed in. From the USA’s only steam-powered cider mill to the outdoor Art Festival, you’ll never want to leave this quaint town.

Portland, Maine

Portland has the perfect blend of outdoor adventures and a sophisticated art scene. The beach is never far away, and the beautiful weather makes it the perfect summer destination that is often overlooked.

This gorgeous area of Maine is known for its beautiful lighthouses, so don’t forget to go on tour while you’re visiting. From the Nubble Lighthouse to the Portland Head Light, it’s an interesting tour to take.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh comes alive in the Summer with festivals, live music, and activities filling up almost every weekend. In fact, Pittsburgh was ranked as one of the ten most event-filled cities in 2022 by PredictHQ .

Rent a Golden Triangle Bike and explore the scenic river paths, go for a stroll in Kennywood Park, or simply enjoy the architecture in the city. And when you need to refuel, Pittsburgh has an award-winning food and drink scene and some cool hotels to stay in.

Shenandoah National Park

If you’re looking for unmatched panoramic views and breathtaking natural beauty , Shenandoah National Park should be on your bucket list. This 300-square-mile sanctuary is home to bears, brook trout, and other wildlife, all living in a diverse forest.

The Skyline Drive allows for unbelievable views, with its highest point reaching 4,049 feet at Hawksbill. Shenandoah was the first of Virginia’s national parks but an overlooked spot for adventurers you won’t want to miss.

White Mountains, NH

If you’re looking for a not-so-well-known hiking holiday, check out the White Mountains in New Hampshire. There’s something for everyone, from easy woodland walks to tough scrambles, not to mention gold courses, lakeside beaches, and crystal clear mountain streams for fishing and swimming.

And when you need a break from the wilderness, you’ll find live theater, entertainment, antique stores, and more in the nearby town. It’s pretty popular in the summer, but the buzz of the town is perfect for family vacations and you’ll find plenty to do.

Camping: How to Stay Warm in Your Tent (Best Tent Heaters & Survival Tips)

Stowe has a small-town charm about it that will make you want to stay forever. Previously named one of the best small towns in America, it has 45 hiking trails to try out, including Vermont’s tallest peak and a breathtaking waterfall.

In the town, you’ll find beautiful architecture and three classic covered bridges, as well as local eateries and cafes to refuel. For small-town charm and iconic scenery, it doesn’t get much better than Stowe.

Newport, Rhode Island

Newport in Rhode Island is known as the sailing capital of the world. Whether you are an experienced sailor or want to get your sea legs, you’ll have fun with the world’s largest fleet of America’s Cup 12 Meters.

But it’s not just sailing Newport is known for, you’ll also get a taste of the high life by touring the Newport Mansions, once home to America’s wealthiest families. Or you could take a peaceful walk along the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk for some of the best scenic views of your life.

There is so much to do and see in Newport that it can be hard to pack it all into one trip. But it’s a must-visit destination for adventurers and families alike.

White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

Whether you’re an avid hiker or just want a unique adventure, White Mountain National Forest offers outdoor recreation year-round.

Spread over 800,000 acres, you can take part in hiking, cross-country skiing, boating, fishing, kayaking, and more. And with 22 campgrounds scattered across the forest, there are plenty of places to camp . It’s an adventurer’s dream.

Where Will You Visit This Summer?

The northeast has so many hidden gems that get overlooked by most travelers. But it’s always great finding a new place to explore. The big question is, where will you visit this summer?

Will you be hiking the trails of the White Mountains in New Hampshire or sunbathing on the beautiful beaches of Portland, Maine?

Hopefully, this guide has helped you narrow down your next adventure.

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12 Beautiful Places To Visit In The Northeast USA

No doubt, if it’s your first visit to the northeast of the United States, it’s likely you’ll dive right in to some of the firm favourites of New York City , Niagara Falls and Washington DC, which are all incredible places to experience (there’s no doubt about that) but, and it’s a big but, there is so much more to see! One thing that is pretty darn wonderful about the US is its diversity and gorgeous places to explore, with the northeast being no exception!

If you’re already planning a trip to  New York City or thinking of seeing another side of the region, then make sure to take a look at some of these stunning stops.

If you love natural beauty, quaint towns and opportunities to spot whales and devour fresh lobster, then the northeast is for you.

Take a look at some of the very best places you should consider.

1.) Gorge on fresh lobster at Bar Harbour, Maine

On the northeast shores of Mt Desert Island, Bar Harbour is one special little place that’s well worth a gander at. Head into the town itself and gorge in one of the quaint, independent, restaurants that line the little streets.

Make sure to visit Rose Eden Restaurant, where they serve fresh lobster, with lashings of butter, all right from the shorefront at a very reasonable price too.

If you’re looking to work off all those buttery calories, take a walk along the Ocean Trail by the town. It’s something else.

2.) Time for a tipple on Nantucket Island

Approximately 3o miles from the shores of Cape Cod , Nantucket Island is one lovely little spot to visit.

Make sure to pop into the Nantucket Vineyard that also crafts local beers (Don’t forget to ask for a taster of some of their limited edition casks).

If you’re looking for a little R&R, then head towards Madakat Beach, arguably one of the nicest, sandy beaches, on the island.

Read more: Best things to do in Cape Cod

3.) Watch the sunset at Grand Isle, Vermont

If you’re heading north in Vermont , make sure to take a pit stop on the gorgeous Grand Isle.

This intimate little island is only home to a few thousand people who really care about this gorgeous place.

Head to the beautiful Grand Isle State Park for a little ramble around the beautiful nature, it’s a great place to watch the sunset across the shores too.

Read more: Best places in Vermont to visit

4.) See the roaring falls of Finger Lakes, New York

Last time I visited Finger Lakes was in the midst of a crazy thunderstorm for a night in a tent. It was terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure.

Thankfully, thunderstorms are few and far between and the whole area is a breathtaking place to enjoy a few days away from the hustle and bustle of, say, New York City.

Make sure to take some time to visit, the roaring, Taughannock Falls and Watkins Glen that is truly one of a kind.

5.) Follow the Kanacamagus Highway in the White Mountains, New Hampshire

The White Mountains is situated predominately in New Hampshire, with Maine taking a little bit of it too! Head over to the whopping 800,000-acre park and drive the Kancamagus Highway without ever having to break a sweat.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a hike or a ramble, make sure to take a look at the many designated routes that criss-cross the forest.

6.) Discover Mt Desert Island, Maine

Mt Desert Island is a picturesque island (home to Bar Harbour, I mentioned previously).

The island itself is a beautiful place to explore. Hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain and ramble through the picturesque Acadia National Park that’s great to see in Summer and Winter.

7.) Go whale watching in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is one of my favourite east coast cities, packed full of history and incredible seafood, there’s a massive amount to do in the city.

If you’re spending a few days on your trip, make sure to head out whale watching, pack in some walking along the Freedom Trail.

Oh, and make sure to see the Museum of Fine Art (if that’s your thing). Its huge collection is one of the very best in the world.

Also, if you’re looking for a really quirky place to rest your head, make sure to check out the Verb Hotel that is based on 1960’s America.

Read more: Best places in Massachusetts to visit

8.) See Dr Seuss at Springfield, Massachusetts

Springfield has lots of charming things to see and do, evening if you’re only staying for a little time.

Make sure to visit, Watershops Pond, Hubbard Park and even spot the Dr Seuss statues within the sculpture garden itself.

9.) See the stars in Portland, Maine

Set on the corner of a peninsula, Portland is one lovely city to visit.

Make sure you take some time to visit the Portland Head Lighthouse where you’ll get the opportunity to brush up on some star-gazing skills (over the sea) or take a tour Victoria Mansion that is stunningly preserved.

If you’re looking for some outdoor activities, hop over to Fore Street for some local bites to eat.

10.) Discover the beautiful, Casco Bay Islands

Not far from the shores on Portland is the beautiful islands situated within Casco Bay itself. This huge bay has numerous islands that to explore, including Peaks Island (which actually is part of the city of Portland) and the beautiful Cliff Island too.

Alternatively, If you’re looking for a small island where you can stroll around, head over to Great Diamond that is car and lorry free. It’s perfect for walking on this relaxing island!

11.) Explore the wild and beautiful, Block Island

Block Island is technically part of Rhode Island (the state) and was named after a famous European explorer who ventured these waters many a year ago.

Head across to Mohegan Bluffs to see the iconic clay cliffs that overlook the ocean or visit Block Island North Lighthouse that is 150 years old this year.

It’s stunning.

Read more: Best places in Rhode Island to visit

12.) Gorge in Montpelier, Vermont

As the capital city of Vermont , Montpelier has lots of amazing things to see and do for us travellers.

Head over to the delicious Bragg Farm Sugar House that makes all things maple syrup. Be warned, you will leave on a sugar high!

If you’re looking for a piece of beautiful history, then take a tour of the Vermont State House that has become an iconic site in the city.

For a yummy brunch, dart over to Skinny Pancake that has some of the very best pancakes in all of Vermont . Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

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15 Best US Northeast Summer Vacation Spots

Posted on March 21, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on September 25, 2023

Planning a summer vacation in the Northeast and wondering where to go? From sandy beaches to breathtaking mountain ranges, you’ll find plenty of great summer destinations in the Northeast .

Summer is the perfect time to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and go on a much-needed vacation. The Northeast region of the United States offers some of the most beautiful and exciting vacation spots with plenty of fun things to do during this time of year.

From the stunning beaches and quaint towns of Cape Cod to the gorgeous overlooks and outdoor recreation opportunities of the Poconos, there’s something for everyone in the Northeast. Keep on reading to discover some of the best Northeast summer vacation spots !

If you’re on a budget, discover some of the most affordable summer destinations in the USA and abroad.

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Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is a popular summer vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. This 70-mile-long peninsula is known for its picturesque lighthouses, charming fishing villages, and sandy beaches . There are plenty of things to do in Cape Cod , from whale watching and fishing to biking and hiking.

One of the main draws of Cape Cod is its beautiful beaches . You can spend days relaxing in the sun, swimming in the ocean, or taking a long walk along the beach. Some of the most popular beaches on Cape Cod include Nauset Beach, Coast Guard Beach, and Race Point Beach .

Another popular attraction in Cape Cod is the Cape Cod National Seashore , which stretches for 40 miles and includes beaches, dunes, and marshlands . If you’re looking for a quieter spot to relax and unwind, head to the town of Chatham , which is known for its quaint streets, boutique shops, and historic architecture.

You can also take a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales. Many tours depart from Provincetown or Barnstable Harbor.

For those interested in history and culture, Cape Cod offers many opportunities to explore its rich past. The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History showcases the area’s natural history, while the Heritage Museums and Gardens features exhibits on local history and culture.

Cape Cod is also home to many charming towns and villages , each with its own unique character and attractions. The town of Chatham is known for its picturesque lighthouse and quaint downtown area, while the village of Woods Hole is home to the world-renowned Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

Finally, Cape Cod offers a variety of outdoor activities for those who love to stay active. You can hike along the Cape Cod Rail Trail , a 22-mile bike path that winds through the area’s beautiful landscapes, or take a kayaking tour of the area’s many marshes and waterways.

A great place to stay in Cape Cod is the family-friendly Sea Crest Beach Hotel . This beachfront hotel is located in North Falmouth, close to Woods Hole and other Cape Cod attractions. It features an indoor swimming pool, a private beach with watercraft rentals, and an on-site restaurant.

For something more romantic, check out the Chatham Bars Inn . This iconic Cape Cod resort is located in Chatham, with views of Pleasant Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. It features luxurious rooms and suites with ocean or garden views, a full-service spa, a private beach, and a restaurant.

You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation homes , but make sure to book ahead as summer is a popular time to visit Cape Cod.

Newport, Rhode Island

If you’re looking for a summer vacation spot in the Northeast that combines history, culture, and seaside charm , Newport, Rhode Island, is the place for you. This small coastal town is known for its mansions , which were once the summer homes of America’s wealthiest families. You can take a tour of these mansions , which are now open to the public, and marvel at their opulence and grandeur.

In addition to the mansions, Newport is also home to several museums , including the International Tennis Hall of Fame and the Naval War College Museum . If you’re looking for outdoor activities, head to one of the town’s beaches, such as Easton’s Beach or Second Beach , where you can swim, surf, or sunbathe .

One of the main draws of Newport is its stunning coastal views , which can be enjoyed from the Cliff Walk , a scenic walkway that winds along the rocky shoreline and offers views of the ocean and the area’s historic mansions. Visitors can also take a cruise along Narragansett Bay or go on a whale-watching tour.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Newport is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene . The Newport Art Museum showcases the work of local and regional artists, and the Newport Jazz Festival and Newport Folk Festival draw music fans from all over the world.

Finally, you can explore the city’s charming downtown area , which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Bowen’s Wharf area, located along Newport Harbor, is a popular spot for shopping, dining, and people-watching.

Families planning a summer getaway will love staying at the Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina . This waterfront resort is located on Goat Island, with views of Newport Harbor and the Newport Bridge . It features indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and a marina, as well as several restaurants and bars.

For a more romantic option, check out The Chanler at Cliff Walk . This historic mansion-turned-hotel is located on the Cliff Walk, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Easton Bay. It features luxurious rooms with antique furnishings and modern amenities, some with a spa bath, and a fine-dining restaurant.

You’ll also find plenty of nice vacation rentals around town.

Bar Harbor, Maine

One of the best Northeast summer vacation spots, Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town located on Mount Desert Island, just outside of Acadia National Park. This town is known for its stunning coastal beauty, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities .

One of the most popular attractions in Bar Harbor is the Shore Path , a scenic walkway that follows the shoreline of Frenchman Bay. Another must-visit destination is the Abbe Museum , which showcases the history and culture of Maine’s Native American tribes, and St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church , a historic stone church dating back to the 19th century.

The nearby Acadia National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking . You can explore the park’s many trails, including the popular Cadillac Mountain Trail , which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

For those interested in getting out on the water, Bar Harbor offers a variety of opportunities for whale-watching as well as all sorts of cruises to explore the coast.

In addition to its natural beauty and historic landmarks, Bar Harbor is also known for its charming downtown area, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes . You can stroll along Main Street and browse the many boutiques and art galleries, or enjoy a meal at one of the area’s many restaurants.

The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center is a great place to stay during your trip. This hotel is located on a hillside overlooking Frenchman Bay, with easy access to Acadia National Park and downtown Bar Harbor. It features indoor and outdoor pools, a private beach, and a playground, as well as a restaurant and bar.

For something more intimate, check out the many vacation rentals available in and around town, or book a room at the elegant Chiltern Inn .

Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is a vibrant college town located on the shores of Lake Champlain . This town is known for its lively music scene, craft breweries , and farm-to-table dining, making it a great destination for a summer getaway in the Northeast. Visitors can explore the town’s many shops and restaurants , or take a stroll along the waterfront bike path .

One of the highlights of Burlington is the Church Street Marketplace , a pedestrian-only shopping district that is home to dozens of boutique shops, restaurants, and street performers.

The nearby Lake Champlain offers a variety of water activities like swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding . You can also take a scenic cruise with Spirit of Ethan Allen , which offers a variety of cruises all featuring stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Burlington is also home to a variety of parks and nature preserves, such as the Waterfront Park , which offers beautiful views of the lake and hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the summer. You can also hike or bike the Burlington Bike Path , which follows the shoreline of Lake Champlain for 8 miles.

For those interested in culture, Burlington has a vibrant arts scene , with galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing the work of local artists. The Flynn Center for the Performing Arts offers a variety of performances throughout the summer, and the Burlington City Arts Center hosts exhibits and events throughout the year.

In addition to its natural beauty and arts scene, Burlington is also known for its farm-to-table cuisine , with a variety of restaurants and cafes offering locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes.

Families will enjoy staying at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain , located right on the lake and offering plenty of water activities for families. The hotel also has an indoor pool and is located within walking distance of many family-friendly attractions.

The Hotel Vermont is a nice option for couples planning a romantic summer getaway . This boutique hotel offers modern, minimalist accommodations, a gourmet restaurant, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of Lake Champlain.

The Hamptons, New York

The Hamptons is a collection of villages and hamlets located on the eastern end of Long Island, New York. It’s known for its luxury homes, high-end shopping, and beautiful beaches . Visitors can take a stroll along Main Street in East Hampton, relax on the beach in Southampton, or enjoy a round of golf in Bridgehampton.

One of the main draws of the Hamptons is its stunning beaches . You can spend your vacation swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking . Some of the most popular beaches in the Hamptons include Main Beach in East Hampton, Coopers Beach in Southampton, and Montauk Beach in Montauk.

The Hamptons is also home to a variety of upscale shops and restaurants , with something to suit every taste and budget. You can browse the boutiques and art galleries in Southampton, or enjoy a meal at one of the area’s many fine-dining restaurants . The Hamptons is also known for its wineries, with several vineyards offering tastings and tours throughout the summer.

For those interested in culture and history, the Hamptons offers a variety of museums and historic landmarks , such as the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, which showcases the work of local artists, and the Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum , which tells the story of the area’s whaling history.

In addition to its beaches, shopping, and culture, the Hamptons also offers a variety of outdoor activities , such as hiking, biking, and golfing . Visitors can explore the area’s many parks and nature preserves, or play a round of golf at one of the area’s many golf courses.

Finally, visitors can take advantage of the area’s nightlife, with plenty of bars and nightclubs offering live music and entertainment throughout the summer.

The Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is a great place to stay. It’s located right on the beach , with plenty of on-site water activities for families. The resort also has an outdoor pool and kids’ activities .

Couples looking for a romantic option will love staying at the Topping Rose House . This charming inn is set in a beautifully restored 1842 Greek Revival mansion and offers luxurious accommodations, a farm-to-table restaurant sourced from its own on-site farm, and a spa. A complimentary shuttle to the beach and private beach passes are also offered.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard is a popular summer vacation spot in the Northeast . This island is known for its quaint towns, picturesque harbors, and beautiful beaches . Visitors can explore the shops and restaurants in the town of Edgartown, take a ferry ride to Chappaquiddick Island, or relax on the beach in Oak Bluffs.

One of the main draws of Martha’s Vineyard is its stunning beaches offering plenty of water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Make sure to check out South Beach, Oak Bluffs Town Beach, and Katama Beach.

Take a break from the beach and stroll around the charming town of Edgartown , which boasts historic homes and buildings dating back to the 1700s. Don’t miss the historic Gay Head Lighthouse , which was built in the 1800s and offers panoramic views of the island.

In the towns of Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs , browse the boutiques and art galleries or sample local food at one of the island’s many restaurants and cafes.

For those interested in the arts, Martha’s Vineyard has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing the work of local artists. The Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse offers a variety of plays and performances throughout the summer, and the Martha’s Vineyard Museum showcases the island’s rich history and culture through exhibits and artifacts.

Located in the heart of Edgartown, the historic Harbor View Hotel offers spacious rooms, easy beach access, an outdoor pool, and kids’ activities.

Lake Placid, New York

Located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, Lake Placid is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and Olympic history . It’s a popular summer destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxing getaway , hike in the High Peaks, paddle on Mirror Lake, and visit the Olympic Museum and ski jumps.

Make sure to take a gondola ride up Whiteface Mountain for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, or hike one of the many nearby trails for a more immersive outdoor experience.

Lake Placid is also home to several water activities, such as swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating. Head to Lake Placid Public Beach for a sandy beach and hike to Shoebox Falls for a natural swimming hole.

You can also tour the Olympic Sports Complex , which was used during the 1980 Winter Olympics, or visit the Lake Placid Olympic Museu m to learn more about the area’s Olympic legacy.

In addition to its outdoor activities, Lake Placid also offers a variety of shopping and dining options, browse the shops and galleries in the town of Lake Placid, or sample local cuisine at one of the area’s many restaurants and cafes.

Check out the Lake Placid Center for the Arts as well, and catch a concert, play, or other performances hosted throughout the summer.

A great place to stay for families, Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa offer plenty of water activities for families as well as a private beach, outdoor pool, restaurant, and game room for kids.

The Whiteface Lodge is also a great option. This luxurious Adirondack-style resort offers a plethora of activities, amenities, and services, with suites featuring a fireplace, full kitchen, and en suite bathroom with a spa bath.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Known for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and beautiful beaches , Block Island is one of the best summer vacation spots in the Northeast – bike around the island, take a tour of the Southeast Lighthouse, or relax on the beach at Mansion Beach.

Enjoy the island’s many beaches such as Mansion Beach, Crescent Beach, and Ballard’s Beach , and maybe do some kayaking or go on a sunset cruise . Summer is also a great time to go whale-watching.

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, don’t miss visiting the Mohegan Bluffs and Clay Head Trail as well. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing , as well as stunning views of the island’s coastline.

Another must-do is to tour the historic Southeast Lighthouse , which was built in the 1800s and offers panoramic views of the island, or visit the Block Island Historical Society Museum , showcasing the island’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts.

The Spring House Hotel is a family-friendly hotel located on Block Island’s picturesque bluffs. This property features spacious rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool , and a farm-to-table restaurant. Families can also enjoy activities such as beachcombing, hiking, and kayaking right from the property.

The 1661 Inn is a romantic property located in the heart of Block Island’s historic district. This inn features elegantly appointed rooms with great views over the water, a gourmet restaurant, and a nice garden.

Niagara Falls, New York

A bucket-list destination in the Northeast, Niagara Falls is a world-famous natural wonder that makes a perfect summer vacation spot. Visitors can take a boat tour to the base of the falls, explore the Niagara Falls State Park, or visit the nearby Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino.

It offers a variety of activities in the summer months to enjoy the outdoors and breathtaking views of the falls. A must-do is to take a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist to get up close and personal with the falls, or take a helicopter tour for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding area.

For something more adventurous, some adrenaline-pumping activities include ziplining over the falls or taking a jet boat ride through the rapids.

Niagara Falls State Park is also a must-visit spot in the area. This park is home to several walking trails, picnic areas, and observation decks, as well as the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center , which offers educational exhibits on the area’s geology and ecology.

In town, you can explore Old Fort Niagara , a historic fort that played a key role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. There are also several museums in the area, including the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center , which offers exhibits on the region’s role in the Underground Railroad.

The Sheraton Niagara Falls is a family-friendly hotel located just steps from the falls. This hotel features an indoor pool , a game room, and a variety of dining options.

For something more romantic, The Giacomo is a boutique hotel located in a historic building in downtown Niagara Falls. This property features luxurious rooms with views of the city, some have a spa bath , a cozy lounge, and a complimentary breakfast.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport is a picturesque coastal town located in southern Maine. It’s known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and quaint downtown area . Take a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue, explore the shops and galleries in Dock Square, or relax on the beach at Goose Rocks Beach for the perfect summer getaway.

You can enjoy spending time at the town’s three main beaches: Kennebunk Beach, Gooch’s Beach, and Mother’s Beach – and go for a hike at the nearby Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge .

Another must-visit spot in Kennebunkport is the Walker’s Point estate , which is the summer home of former President George H.W. Bush. While you can’t visit the house, you can see it from the outside, and tour the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s “ White Columns ” which includes an exhibit on the Bush family and their history in Maine.

Stroll around the town’s charming downtown area, filled with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. You can also take a guided walking tour to learn more about Kennebunkport’s history.

For those who love the water, there are a variety of boat tours and water activities available during summer – go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding , or take a sunset sail along the coast .

A great place to stay is The Nonantum Resort , a family-friendly property located on the banks of the Kennebunk River. This resort features a variety of activities for families , including a kids’ club, boat tours, and a nightly campfire with s’mores.

The White Barn Inn & Spa is a perfect romantic getaway located in a restored barn in the heart of Kennebunkport. This property features luxurious rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner in the inn’s candlelit dining room or relax together in the spa’s steam room or sauna.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Known for its charming town, beautiful beaches, and historic architecture , Nantucket is a great place for a summer vacation. Take a tour of the island’s historic homes, visit the Whaling Museum, or relax on the beach at Madaket Beach, you’ll find plenty of things to do on the island.

Start by exploring the island’s beaches, which are some of the most beautiful in the Northeast. Don’t miss Jetties Beach, Surfside Beach, and Madaket Beach.

Another must-visit spot in Nantucket is the Whaling Museum , which offers a fascinating look into the island’s history as a whaling port. See artifacts from the whaling industry, learn about the life of a whaler, and even step inside a whaleboat.

Nantucket also offers excellent opportunities for biking and hiking. The island has miles of scenic bike paths and hiking trails , with options for all levels of fitness and experience. Some popular trails include the Polpis Harbor Trail, the Squam Swamp Trail, and the Cliff Walk.

You can also take a boat tour around the island to see its beautiful coastline and learn about its history and ecology. Summer is also a great time to see whales.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Nantucket Hotel & Resort is a family-friendly property located just steps from the beach in the heart of Nantucket. This resort features a variety of amenities for families, including a heated outdoor pool, a children’s program, and a complimentary beach shuttle . Families can also enjoy activities such as tennis, croquet, and paddleboarding.

Couples looking for something more romantic will love staying at The White Elephant , a luxurious hotel located in Nantucket’s historic district. This property features elegant rooms and suites, a spa, a waterfront location with stunning views of the harbor, and a nice restaurant.

Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock is a charming town in central Vermont and one of the best summer vacation spots in the Northeast. Known for its historic covered bridges, beautiful scenery, and outdoor activities , you’ll find plenty of things to do during summer, from hiking in the nearby Green Mountains to visiting the Billings Farm and Museum.

In the Green Mountains, you’ll find many trails for all levels of fitness and experience. Some popular trails include the Quechee Gorge Trail, Mount Tom Trail, and the Pogue Trail .

Every Wednesday from May through October, Woodstock hosts a farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods, and crafts.

In town, don’t miss driving by Middle Bridge, one of the cutest covered bridges in New England .

At the Billings Farm and Museum , a working dairy farm and a museum that offers a glimpse into 19th-century rural life, you can tour the farmhouse, watch demonstrations of traditional farm practices, and interact with farm animals.

Don’t miss the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park , a great place to learn about the history of conservation and land management in the United States. You can tour the mansion and gardens, as well as take guided hikes and attend educational programs.

The historic Woodstock Inn & Resort is a great place for a summer getaway. This resort features a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and an on-site restaurant.

For something more intimate, the Lincoln Inn & Restaurant at the Covered Bridge is a cozy bed and breakfast located just outside of Woodstock, with stylishly appointed rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a scenic location overlooking a covered bridge. It’s the perfect place for couples seeking a romantic getaway in the Vermont countryside.

In the area, you’ll also find plenty of vacation rentals from charming cabins in secluded areas to historic houses.

Greenwich, Connecticut

Greenwich, Connecticut is a beautiful town located just outside of New York City. During the summer months, Greenwich offers a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy.

One of the most popular attractions in Greenwich during the summer is Greenwich Point Park . The park features a stunning beach, walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the Long Island Sound .

Another must-see attraction in Greenwich is the Bush-Holley House . The historic home dates back to the 18th century and is now a museum that offers tours and exhibits on local history and culture.

For those who love to shop, Greenwich Avenue is a must-visit destination. The charming street is lined with boutiques and shops offering everything from designer clothing to unique gifts and home decor.

Greenwich is also home to several premier golf courses, including the Griffith E. Harris Golf Course and the Stanwich Club . Golf enthusiasts can book a tee time and spend the day on the green.

Finally, visitors to Greenwich during the summer can attend the Greenwich International Film Festival . The annual festival showcases independent films from around the world and includes screenings, panel discussions, and special events.

Families will enjoy staying at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich , conveniently located and featuring an indoor pool and a hot tub, a fitness center, and spacious family rooms.

The Delamar Greenwich Harbor is a great option for a romantic getaway. This waterfront hotel is located on the Greenwich Harbor, with views of the Long Island Sound. It features luxurious rooms and suites with water views, a full-service spa, and a fine-dining restaurant.

Conway, New Hampshire

Located in the heart of the White Mountains, Conway is one of the best summer destinations in the Northeast for outdoor lovers. During the summer months, the area offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages to enjoy.

One of the most popular attractions in Conway during the summer is the Kancamagus Highway . This scenic byway offers stunning views of the White Mountains and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can drive or bike the highway , stopping at overlooks and hiking trails along the way.

Another must-see attraction in Conway is the Conway Scenic Railroad . The railroad offers a variety of train rides, including scenic tours of the White Mountains, dinner trains, and special events .

For those who love to hike, Conway is home to several great trails , including the popular Mount Washington hike . Hikers can enjoy a variety of trails of varying difficulty levels, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Diana’s Baths is an easy flat 0.6-mile hike leading to cascading ponds and natural pools.

If you want to swim and enjoy other water activities, spend a day exploring Echo Lake State Park .

Families with little kids can head to the Story Land amusement park where you’ll find fun attractions, rides, and live shows.

The Red Jacket Mountain View Resort is a great place to stay in town. It features indoor and outdoor pools, a water park, a game room, and several restaurants and bars. For something more intimate, check out the luxurious Inn at Thorn Hill & Spa . It features elegant rooms and suites with mountain views, a full-service spa, and a restaurant.

You’ll also find plenty of great vacation rentals in town and in the surrounding mountains.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, the Poconos region of Pennsylvania is a popular summer vacation spot with plenty of fun things to do.

One of the most popular attractions in the Poconos is the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area . This area offers stunning views of the Delaware River and a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, swimming, and kayaking.

For something more relaxing, take a scenic drive through the mountains and stops at overlooks or hike one of the many short trails for beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

For those who love water sports, the Poconos offer several great lakes for swimming, boating, and other water activities. Lake Wallenpaupack is a popular destination for water sports, offering boat rentals.

The Poconos also offers several great golf courses , including the Jack Frost National Golf Club and the Mount Airy Golf Club . Golf enthusiasts can book a tee time and spend the day on the green.

Finally, visitors to the Poconos during the summer can enjoy the region’s unique entertainment options. The Pocono Raceway hosts NASCAR races and other events throughout the summer, while the Mount Airy Casino Resort offers a variety of gaming options, concerts, and other entertainment.

Families will love staying at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions thanks to its famous indoor and outdoor water parks, a virtual reality experience, an arcade, and several restaurants and bars.

The Skytop Lodge is a great option for couples who are planning a romantic summer getaway. The resort offers a luxurious spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, several restaurants, and several types of comfortable rooms.

The area is also filled with charming cabins and cottages , check out the lakefront ones for an unforgettable summer vacation!

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21 Best Beaches in the Northeast, USA

Written by Lura Seavey Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lura R. Seavey lives near the New Hampshire coast and visits beaches in the northeast regularly during her travels.

For some, the perfect beach is a tiny remote cove or one isolated behind miles of undeveloped dunes. Others crave the hubbub and excitement of an old-fashioned beach resort with a busy boardwalk, soft ice cream, a carousel, and maybe even an ocean-side fun park like those found at Old Orchard Beach in Maine or the iconic Coney Island Beach in New York City .

Beachgoers also differ on their preferred water temperature, from bracing Maine surf to the warmer waters of Cape May, and even one on the shores of New Hampshire's famed Lake Winnipesaukee.

Ranking beaches is a tricky business at best, so instead, we arranged them geographically , from Maine to New Jersey . We've tried to mix the list to include something for all tastes, although, of course, none of these is the secluded little cove that's a secret to all but a few.

These are all popular places to visit, so expect parking to be difficult — plan to arrive early in the morning, and even then, don't expect to be alone in your quest for a good spot. Remember, there's a reason these beaches are so popular: they're the best.

Plan your next family vacation using this handy list to find the best beaches in the Northeast.

1. Old Orchard Beach, Maine

2. kennebunk beaches, maine, 3. wells and ogunquit beaches, maine, 4. hampton beach, new hampshire, 5. weirs beach, new hampshire, 6. wingaersheek beach, massachusetts, 7. singing beach, massachusetts, 8. cape cod national seashore, massachusetts, 9. head of the meadow and ballston beach, massachusetts, 10. easton's beach/first beach, rhode island, 11. narragansett bay beaches, rhode island, 12. misquamicut state beach, rhode island, 13. ocean beach park, connecticut, 14. hammonasset state park, connecticut, 15. jones beach, new york, 16. brighton beach, new york, 17. coney island beach, new york, 18. sandy hook, new jersey, 19. stone harbor beach, new jersey, 20. wildwood, new jersey, 21. cape may beach, new jersey.

The throwback atmosphere of Old Orchard Beach is what its devotees love about it as they soar above the beach on a heart-stopping Ferris wheel ride at Palace Playland , New England's last full-scale amusement park on a beach. This carnival-style park has ticketed rides, not general admission, so you can wander around and soak up the atmosphere if you're not up for an arcade game or a bumper-car ride.

The old-fashioned wooden pier is another iconic landmark at Old Orchard Beach, topped with an assortment of shops and restaurants that offer all the expected soft ice cream, saltwater taffy, fried dough, and seafood. If you're here in the evening during a fireworks show, get an outdoor seat and have dinner at the far end of the pier for the best views.

One of the best things about Old Orchard Beach is how accessible it is if you don't want to (or can't) drive here. Just one block from the sand, and right in the center of the main shopping and dining area, sits an Amtrak station that provides seasonal service from May through October. The southernmost station is Boston's North Station, with two more stops in Massachusetts, three in New Hampshire, and several more in Maine.

This is one of the most popular places to visit in Maine , offering seven miles of golden sand that is free and open to the public, as well as plenty of places to eat and an abundance of places to stay.

Location: W. Grand Ave., Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches near Portland, Maine

If you want to wiggle your toes in southern Maine's famous soft sand, formed by eons of grinding the native granite into a fine silver-colored powder, kick off your shoes in Kennebunk. Get a parking sticker at the town hall or take the handy trolley from your hotel or one of the B&Bs that fill the town's former captains' mansions.

Gooch's Beach begins at the Kennebunk River and leads to Mother's Beach , a short section protected by low rocky areas that are safe for kids to play in. Mother's Beach also has super-soft sand and a good playground that's relatively new, and although there are no permanent facilities here, portable toilets are maintained in summer.

West of the in-town beaches, close to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge , is the idyllic dune-backed Parsons Beach . Parking is limited at the beach itself, but you can park near the main road and walk in.

Location: Beach Ave, Kennebunk, Maine

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Kennebunkport, ME

A long barrier beach separates the saltmarshes of the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve from the Atlantic Ocean, stretching from the town of Wells south to Ogunquit. Drake Island, Wells, Crescent, Moody, Footbridge , and Ogunquit beaches meld from one to the other, each with plenty of soft sand and its own following of families that return year after year.

Hotels, resorts, and restaurants stretch along Route 1, which parallels the coast. Of the lot, Ogunquit is the tonier base, with high-end resorts, fine dining, and shopping, as well as a beach with an especially gentle slope into the water — great for families. Don't miss walking Marginal Way from Ogunquit to Perkins Cove for beautiful ocean views and several tiny beaches enclosed by rocks.

Location: Beach Street, Ogunquit, Maine

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Ogunquit, ME

New Hampshire makes the most of its 13-mile coastline with five public beaches, three of which are state parks. The biggest is Hampton Beach, a long span of white sand that's consistently rated as one of the cleanest beaches in the United States and among the best beaches in New England .

The town behind the beach is an unabashedly pure honky-tonk beach resort, with a boardwalk, fried dough, saucy T-shirts, pizza joints, candy shops, and a penny arcade.

At the center of this is the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom , built in 1899 as a community entertainment center, now a live music and comedy venue that hosts name performers and bands.

Consistent with its lively atmosphere, Hampton Beach hosts frequent events and festivals : sand sculpture in June, Children's Festival in August, weekly firework displays, and live music nightly on the Sea Shell Stage.

Location: Ocean Boulevard, Hampton, New Hampshire

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in New Hampshire

Weirs Beach is located near Laconia in New Hampshire's Lakes Region and is a favorite freshwater swimming spot for visitors. It occupies a stretch of sand on the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee (locally referred to simply as "the big lake"), within the Endicott Rock State Historic Site.

Although the beach itself doesn't offer much in the way of amenities, it sits at the end of the Wiers Boardwalk , which has plenty of restaurants, shops, and diversions, including classic arcades. This is also home to the dock for the M/S Mount Washington and the US Mailboat M/V Sophie C , which offer sightseeing cruises on Lake Winnipesaukee .

In the evening, visitors can enjoy films on one of the three screens at the Weirs Beach Drive-In theater, and if the weather isn't cooperating, FunSpot is just up the street for plenty of indoor fun, including bowling and the world's largest collection of arcade video games.

Location: Lakeside Ave., Laconia, New Hampshire

Read More: Best Lakes in New Hampshire

Stretching along the tidal Annisquam River and Ipswich Bay north of Boston, Wingaersheek Beach has crystal clear waters and a very gradual slope that at low tide extends the beach to more than half a mile wide.

The shallow water makes this Gloucester beach a favorite place to visit for families, especially when the receding tide uncovers huge rock formations to climb on and tidal pools filled with snails and other small marine creatures to discover.

In the summer, you'll find changing facilities and food vendors at the beach.

Location: Atlantic Street, Gloucester, Massachusetts

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Massachusetts

Close to Boston , but feeling light years away in the cute and historic town of Manchester-by-the-Sea, is a beach with two unique features: singing sand and a charming bathhouse built in the 1920s. The setting is scenic, with a long rocky headland bookmarking one end of the beach.

The "singing" you'll hear as you walk across the sand is caused by a combination of round, uniformly sized sand grains containing silica, and a humid atmosphere. As you walk, the friction and compression cause the low humming sound.

Address: 119 Beach Street, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in the Boston Area

One of two Provincetown beaches that are part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, Herring Cove Beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, and even spotting seals. With the exception of shorebird nesting season, it's also a dog-friendly beach , and family-friendly as well thanks to well-maintained facilities, including a sizeable concession area.

Unlike Herring Cove, which faces Cape Cod Bay, Race Point Beach sits at the outermost tip of Cape Cod facing the open Atlantic. Backed by miles of protected dunes and on the ocean side of the Cape, Race Point tends to have heavy surf and an undertow. This makes it unsafe for serious swimming, but the shallow waters are fine for playing in the surf.

And for sunbathers who like a bit of space, its seven miles of sand are spectacular enough to be frequently listed as one of the state's top beaches .

Location: Province Lands Road, Provincetown, Massachusetts

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches on Cape Cod

Both in Truro, on the outer end of Cape Cod , Head of the Meadow and Ballston Beach are idyllic stretches of sand facing the Atlantic, backed by dunes and sand bluffs that rise as high as 100 feet. Accessed over the dunes on paths lined with dune grasses, Head of the Meadow has two areas: one a town beach, the other inside the Cape Cod National Seashore . The latter has a lifeguard.

Surfing is allowed at Head of the Meadow, outside the designated swimming area. Both beaches are accessed from Route 6.

Location: Holden Street, Truro, Massachusetts

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cape Cod & the Islands

Easton's Beach, also called First Beach, offers ocean swimming, as well as plenty of activities for kids. Younger kids will love the vintage carousel and playground, while teens can make use of the skateboard park and enjoy live music.

Beach amenities include showers, changing areas, and rest facilities, as well as picnic tables and grills for public use. Visitors can rent umbrellas, chairs, and water sports equipment on-site, and there is a snack bar that also sells staples like towels and sunscreen.

For a midday break, head to the Rotunda to visit the Save the Bay Exploration Center and Aquarium . Focused on conservation education, the center has touch tanks and aquariums that are home to more than 40 species of marine life, and it also offers a variety of educational programs and activities.

Address: 175 Memorial Blvd, Newport, Rhode Island

There's no need to make hard choices between the beaches that line the shore from the resort town of Narragansett to Point Judith. Twenty-acre Narragansett Town Beach extends for a full mile beginning at the edge of town and is a favorite for surfers, who have their own designated area.

There's plenty of water for swimmers here and in the long golden beaches farther south: Matunuck Beach State Park , East Matunuck State Beach , Roger W. Wheeler State Beach, Scarborough State Beach, and Narragansett Town Beach. All these have changing facilities and parking (if you're planning a few days to sample all of these, you can buy a parking pass that's good at all state parks).

Address: 39 Boston Neck Road, Narragansett, Rhode Island

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rhode Island

Despite its small size, Rhode Island has a whopping 384 miles of shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean and Narragansett Bay. Its beaches are legendary — none more so than Misquamicut, in Westerly. Its gradual slope into the water and gentle waves make it an especially popular beach for families.

In addition to the wide beach of soft sand, Misquamicut State Beach has shaded picnic areas and other things to do, including frequent evening concerts and fireworks.

Nearby Watch Hill is a well-kept and upscale old summer resort town with a historic carousel that's a hit with kids. It's also home to one of Rhode Island's best resorts, The Ocean House , which is a stylish and grand Victorian hotel with a wraparound porch and an amazing restaurant.

Address: Atlantic Avenue, Westerly, Rhode Island

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Rhode Island

Ocean Beach Park in New London is an excellent choice for families, offering swimming not only on the half-mile beach, but also in the Olympic-size pool. There is also a spray park for little ones, and an all-ages triple waterslide for an additional fee, adding to the many reasons this is one of the most popular beach towns in Connecticut .

Beach amenities include a changing area with lockers available, as well as a picnic area, playground, and nature trails. There is also an 18-hole mini-golf course on-site, as well as a collection of seaside carnival rides, from kiddie rides to thrill rides for teens and adults. The park also has a coin-operated arcade that offers all the classic games, including pinball.

Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment on Boardwalk Stage , as well as special events during the summer months, including dances and car shows. Day-use fees are per vehicle (up to five people), and there is a lower walk-in rate for individuals who won't be parking here. There are also several food vendors, including a sit-down restaurant, a snack shack, and an ice cream parlor.

Address: 98 Neptune Ave, New London, Connecticut

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Connecticut

The largest beach in Connecticut, Hammonasset State Park beach lines two miles of shoreline facing Long Island Sound . Waves in the sound are much calmer than those facing the open ocean, making this beach a popular place to visit for families with small children. Another attraction is the boardwalk that runs alongside the beach.

Meigs Point Nature Center offers walks, exhibits, and programs for children. Tourists who want to stay right here can camp in one of the 500 adjoining campsites or find several beach hotels and resorts nearby.

Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, Connecticut

Read More: Best Places for Camping in Connecticut

The most heavily visited beach on the East Coast, Jones Beach lines 6.5 miles of Jones Island seafront, off the south shore of Long Island . Known for its gentle waves and wide expanse of soft sand, the beach is easy to reach from the city on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR).

Once here, you can run, jog, rollerblade, or just stroll and nosh along the two miles of boardwalk and play shuffleboard or ball on the beach. You can even play golf, and on summer evenings take in a show at the Northwell Health Theater .

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches on Long Island

Another of the most popular beaches near New York City , Brighton Beach is east of Coney Island, in Brooklyn's Brighton neighborhood. Because it's farther from the city, it's correspondingly less crowded and has fewer commercial amusements.

Instead of arcades and rides, you'll find the exotic flavors of " Little Odessa " — a neighborhood of émigrés from Russia and Eastern Europe. You may not find Coney Island hotdogs, but look for pierogies and cheese-filled Georgian flatbread. The nearby New York Aquarium is the oldest in the United States.

Address: 601 Riegelmann Boardwalk, Brooklyn, New York

Possibly the most iconic old-style beach of all, Coney Island in Brooklyn is everything you imagined: neon lights, noise, arcades, tacky souvenirs, crowds, boardwalk, the legendary Cyclone roller coaster , and hotdogs from the original Nathan's Coney Island restaurant.

You come here for the atmosphere as much as (or more than) for the three miles of sand, but that's part of the undeniable charm of Coney Island — a carefree oasis of whimsical chaos, where everyone is welcome to be a kid again and enjoy the simple pleasures of sunshine, carnival rides, and guilt-free fried dough.

It may be hard to find a few feet of sand on hot summer weekends, but you'll always find plenty of things to do here. Right next to the beach's two seaside amusement parks, the New York Aquarium's massive complex provides plenty more diversions — a great option if you need a little time in air-conditioning or you need to evade a rain shower.

Location: Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn, New York

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in New York City & Nearby

At the north end of the Jersey shore, with views of the New York City skyline, Sandy Hook beach is on a long, low spit of land, really an island connected to the mainland by a bridge. Besides the miles of lovely sandy beaches, Sandy Hook National Recreation Area has a seven-mile bike path, camping sites, and water sports equipment. You can watch the abundant birdlife or join a park ranger on a canoe tour .

With its protected wildlands and beautiful ocean beaches, Sandy Hook is one of the favorite weekend getaways in New Jersey . There are no hotels on Sandy Hook, but you'll find places to stay on the mainland in Atlantic Highlands, which is connected to New York City by a 35-minute ferry ride.

Location: Hartshorne Drive, Highlands, New Jersey

New Jersey makes the most of its 127 miles of coastline, offering some of the northeast's best beach towns. The easygoing vibe of Stone Harbor Beach, on an island bordered on the west by the Intracoastal Waterway and on the east by the Atlantic, appeals to families and couples seeking a quiet getaway.

Entertainment here means lazing on the pristine dune-backed beach, stopping in a café, and browsing in the boutiques that line the stone-paved streets. Stop at the Wetlands Institute to learn about the shore ecosystem and meet some of the animals that live here, or get closer to the water on a boat excursion or fishing trip.

This is a great place to enjoy the sand with your pup, too — Stone Harbor Beach is among one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the state, with a section that's open to leashed dogs all day, any time of year.

Address: 2 94th Street, Stone Harbor, New Jersey

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in New Jersey

After the sedate atmosphere of Stone Harbor and the peaceful natural environment of Sandy Hook, it's hard to believe that Wildwood is part of the same 127-mile coastline. If you long for the neon and the noise, the tacky souvenirs, and cotton candy, Wildwood is your scene.

Thirty-six blocks of the boardwalk are filled with games, rides, frozen custard, beachwear, and fast food of all descriptions. The mood and the décor are strictly retro, with an unmistakable mid-century vibe. Don't let all this distract you from Wildwood's glorious sandy beach .

Address: 1ST E Glenwood Ave, Wildwood, New Jersey

Known for its Victorian gingerbread beach cottages and saltwater taffy colors, Cape May is like stepping into yet another era, a smartened-up version of the town's historic past as a proper Victorian summer colony.

Lined primly along the beach are spotless Victorian "cottages" replete with towers, gingerbread trim, and inviting front porches. You can retire to a rocking chair of your own at teatime, as many of the houses are now elegant B&Bs.

The history is real, for Cape May claims to be America's oldest seaside resort. Congress Hall , a grand hotel built in 1816 is one of the country's oldest hotels, and Cape May had already been a thriving resort for decades when it opened. The reason is clear: the beach is a spectacularly well-kept, gleaming expanse of soft white sand.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Cape May, NJ

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The 9 Best Laid-back Beach Towns in the Northeast

These coastal getaways are worth visiting for their beautiful shores and small-town feel.

The Northeast is famous for its charming beach towns from New York to Maine. Popular destinations like Nantucket and the villages of the Hamptons draw hordes of visitors in summer, making restaurants hard to get into and lines for ice cream stretch down the block. Beachgoers are lucky to find a patch of sand, let alone space for an umbrella. Luckily for those who prefer a more laid-back beach town, there are lesser-known but equally lovely alternatives.

For example, New York's Shelter Island rivals the Hamptons for coastline views and style, but with a quieter and, some may say, more sophisticated feel. Meanwhile, Madison, Connecticut, is brimming with trendy boutiques and pristine views of the Long Island Sound. Then there's Castine, Maine, with its fabulous food and rich seafaring history. These spots and the others on this list offer the same quintessential East Coast charm and fewer people to bump into while chowing down on your lobster roll.

Shelter Island, New York

Accessible only by ferry, Shelter Island, the Hamptons’ quiet next-door neighbor, is the perfect seaside retreat. The island is nestled between the two forks of Long Island and known for its unspoiled beaches and beautiful manor houses. This summertime enclave maintains its rustic charm with a population of only about 3,000 and almost a third of the land preserved by the Nature Conservancy. Spend your day lolling on the beaches, or rent a sloop and try sailing around the Peconic Bay (a Shelter Island rite of passage).

If you’re looking for a place where you can easily venture out on a paddleboard in the morning and spend the evening sipping summer cocktails, then stay at the Sunset Beach Hotel . This hip boutique hotel from André Balazs has stylish guest rooms, all with private terraces and beach views. Or, just up the road is the intimate and charming Shelter Island House , a 19th-century hotel with 11 rooms elegantly styled to encapsulate the perfect coastal hideaway. Grab an ice-cold IPA at the on-site bar after a long day at the beach or go for an evening swim in the outdoor pool.

Long Beach, New York

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The rolling sand dunes and boardwalk here make for a perfect escape from the summer crowds and heat of Manhattan. Long Beach has evolved into a bustling coastal retreat but still holds fast to traditions like eating fried clams and digging into Italian ices on a hot day. An hour-long train ride from Penn Station , the barrier island is teeming with classic eateries and quirky shops. Even without a car, you can cruise along the boardwalk and ride around town on a bike.

Hotels in Long Beach come in short supply, making it a better day trip than an extended getaway. But if you find one afternoon of relaxing on the beach isn’t enough, book a stay at Allegria Hotel right on the boardwalk. When you get hungry, hit up Jordan Lobster Farms just over the Long Beach Bridge. This hidden gem remains a favorite for Long Island locals seeking fresh lobster rolls and crisp fried clams or shrimp served with house-made cocktail sauce (warning: it has a kick). The restaurant overlooks a pier where the daily catch is brought in. If your sweet tooth is pining for an afternoon treat, grab some soft serve with sprinkles at the famous Marvel Frozen Dairy .

Madison, Connecticut

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Tucked away off the I-95 between New York and Boston, you’ll find the picture-perfect beach town of Madison. Residents try to keep this coastal gem hush-hush but can't seem to keep the idyllic scenery, trendy shops, and great restaurants entirely under wraps. Just a quick drive from the town center is Hammonasset Beach State Park , which has two miles of pristine beach on Long Island Sound.

If you're staying overnight, Madison Beach Hotel has 32 guest rooms, many of which come with balconies overlooking the water, and a renowned spa perfect for squeezing in some R&R. In terms of food, Bar Bouchee is one of the best restaurants in Madison. The intimate space is decked out in classic French bistro design complete with tiled floors and woven Riviera chairs. The menu changes seasonally, but the cuisine is always Gallic-style gourmet.

Mystic, Connecticut

This small town found fame as the location where Julia Roberts tied on an apron as a waitress in "Mystic Pizza." Yes, the real Mystic Pizza that inspired the film still stands, but since then, Mystic has cultivated a reputation as a beach-adjacent foodie destination . The closest beach to Mystic's lively epicenter is Williams Beach Park, a perfect family spot with a playground and calm waters. But there are plenty of other public beaches to visit within 20 miles of the village.

If you want to stay overnight, the notable Whaler’s Inn is an easy walk from the downtown shops and restaurants and has a sublime view of the Mystic River. The complex has five buildings, but the most sought-after rooms are in the Hoxie House, where each corner room is equipped with lush leather sofas and cozy fireplaces. Oyster Club 's freshly shucked shellfish delicacies are just across the bridge from the inn. Otherwise, there's the Captain Daniel Packer Inne , a relic kept intact since 1756 with seafood dishes that match its coastal atmosphere.

Newburyport, Massachusetts

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With a rich nautical history dating back to the 17th century, Newburyport is the ultimate New England coastal town with classic colonial architecture and quaint mom-and-pop shops. Once the main port for ship building in the Northeast, the small city is perfect for seafaring aficionados. Check out the well-known Custom House Maritime Museum , where an entire gallery is dedicated to meticulously crafted model ships. A 10-minute drive down the road is Plum Island Beach, where you can search for shells along the tidal creek or lounge under an umbrella by the sand dunes.

Blue – Inn on the Beach is one of the best places to stay on Plum Island, with its crisp and clean rooms overlooking the water. After a sufficient amount of time on the sand, try the award-winning and local favorite Brine for dinner. It not only serves up fresh market oysters but also specializes in an array of crudo dishes and caviar. And for sugar fiends, the wafting smell of freshly made hand pies from Buttermilk Baking Company is hard to resist. The bakery’s legendary peach muffins have people from near and far lining up at its door every summer.

Brewster, Massachusetts

Brewster is a laid-back alternative to Chatham or Provincetown that doesn't skimp on Cape Cod charm. It has fewer hotels and bed-and-breakfasts than its coastal neighbors but can still offer serene beaches, dynamite seafood, and epic whale watching. The big kahuna of hotels here is Ocean Edge Resort , a historic Victorian mansion on a bluff overlooking the scenic Cape Cod Bay. The hotel is on more than 400 acres of land and has a well-manicured golf course as well as pools, tennis courts, and walking trails to explore. Guests can book a room in the main building or opt for a villa. For dinner, try the refined takes on classic seafood dishes at the Brewster Fish House . Just get there early — this popular spot doesn't take reservations.

Block Island, Rhode Island

On this island, cars are scarce and bikes are plentiful. A quick ferry ride from New London, Connecticut, or Newport, Rhode Island, this 7,000-acre island is the perfect antidote to congested Nantucket. The northern part of the island remains untouched and is home to wildlife rarely seen on the mainland. On the southern half, you’ll find the quaint town of New Shoreham, which houses most of the hotels and eateries. This island might have a tiny population (around 1,000, to be exact) but in the summer the small oasis comes alive with festivals and sailing regattas.

A five-minute walk from Ballard's Beach, Hotel Manisses is the place to stay. The exterior of the 19th-century building is reminiscent of Victorian manor houses, with lovely details like gilded mirrors and claw foot tubs in its 17 guestrooms. Besides the hotel's on-site restaurant, one of the best on the island, another spot for upscale dining is Eli’s , which also has delicious cocktails and ocean views. The Dark 'n Stormy should always be the drink of choice here.

Ogunquit, Maine

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Named by the Abenaki tribe to mean “beautiful place by the sea,” Ogunquit is known for its picturesque barrier peninsula and historical significance as both an artist’s colony and fishing village. Closer to the rest of the East Coast than other popular Maine destinations like Kennebunkport or Portland, this bustling town is great for a weekend getaway. Not only is it a creative enclave with a plethora of galleries and boutiques, but it’s also the home of the Ogunquit Playhouse, with its highly esteemed theater productions.

Cliff House , Ogunquit’s top hotel, is located on the rugged Bald Head cliff with spectacular views. It contains a coffee shop with locally brewed blends and Nubb’s Lobster Shack, which serves classic Maine fare like lobster rolls. And speaking of lobster rolls, Perkins Cove’s Lobster Shack has some of the freshest around. The place is also known for its New England chowder.

Castine, Maine

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Pristine sandy beaches might be scarce in this small waterfront village, but Castine makes up for it with its plentiful water activities and rich seafaring history. Kayaking and sailing are ideal because of Penobscot Bay’s calm waters and small islands. There are also old military forts and the scenic Dyce Head Lighthouse to explore.

Castine has become a smorgasbord of eateries and pubs. Inside the Pentagoët Inn, hands down one of the most charming places to stay in Castine, you'll find hearty ales and an eclectic atmosphere at Mister's Pub . As impeccably decorated as the Victorian inn that houses it, the pub is packed with antiques and travel trinkets, so you feel like you’re in a café far away from coastal Maine.

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The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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5 of Moscow's most BEAUTIFUL districts

1.  Sokolniki

By 9 a.m., the main square of Sokolniki district in the northeast of Moscow begins to fill up with dog-walkers and cyclists. The mobile coffee shops and hot dog outlets are not open yet; the only sounds are the rustling of the autumn leaves and gurgling of the main fountain, around which sleepy guards walk.

“But on the weekend, there are crowds of people here, as if the whole of Moscow descends on it,” says Raisa Bazarova, a resident of Sokolniki. She says that she literally “married” Sokolniki 21 years ago, in 1999, when she moved from the central Arbat district to live with her new husband.

Police fire station with a tower-tower in Sokolniki

It took three years for her to feel at home, finally making friends with the neighbors. Now, Raisa considers it the most beautiful area of ​​Moscow and is fond of its low-rise skyline and architectural monuments.

“As soon as you step out of the subway, you’re in Sokolniki, and the first thing that catches the eye is the pre-revolutionary watchtower [built in 1884]. It saw the old wooden Moscow and has been preserved in all its splendor,” says Bazarova. 

Moscow, park Sokolniki

Raisa also advises foreigners to visit Sokolniki Park, one of the oldest in Moscow, founded in 1878, with fountains, ponds, a swimming pool, an amusement park and its own rose garden. Sokolniki was adored by Peter the Great and Alexander I and it was here that they often held feasts. For Bazarova, the lush greenery makes it the “lungs” of the district.  

The Viktyuk Theater. The building of the outstanding architect Konstantin Melnikov, 1929

Another must-see, according to Bazarova, is the Roman Viktyuk Theater — if nothing else, then to see one of Moscow’s main architectural gems, designed and built in the Constructivist style that prevailed in the city in the 1920s. Moreover, Russian-speaking theater lovers might want to catch a performance of ‘The Maids’ by French playwright Jean Genet. 

2. Levoberezhny

Galina Yakunina, director of a sports club in Moscow’s north for nine years, walks with unfeigned pleasure along the main alley of Rechnoy Vokzal (“River Station”) Park, which was restored in 2020 under the ‘My district’ city improvement program.

Aerial view is a beautiful panorama of the renovated Northern River Station in Moscow

In the summer of 2020, the station, which resembles a ship, was enveloped in scaffolding, as the original 1937 edifice was being restored. Today, it is surrounded by fountains with children running around, endless flower beds and an all-new embankment that runs along a miniature replica of the Moscow Canal, replete with children’s paddle boats and other attractions.

“It’s really beautiful. Cruise ships and motor vessels depart from here. Muscovites love it and tourists definitely will as well,” says Yakunina. 

Park Levoberezhnyj, Moscow

Her second favorite place for a post-work evening stroll is Druzhba (Friendship) Park, laid out for the 6th World Festival of Youth and Students in 1957. The main features are its monuments and sculptures dedicated to children, international friendship and war heroes, as well as the pond-reflected willows and the playgrounds. Thanks to these two parks, the air in the district differs sharply from that in central Moscow - that she is sure of. 

Park Druzhby

In summer, Levoberezhny beach (renovated under the ‘My district’ city improvement program in 2018) becomes the main focal point and Galina heartily recommends it to tourists. 

“The beach is covered with sand, with a cafe, sun loungers and beach volleyball. It’s very relaxing,” she says, describing the place. 

3. Filevsky Park

For social conflict expert Alexei Ivanushkin, Filevsky Park in the city’s west has always been the main symbol of Moscow. 

Fili Park embankment

“I moved here in 2005 from St Petersburg, when the Gorbushka electronics market was one of Moscow’s main draws. There were always crowds of people, poorly dressed, but eager for gadgets. We used to go to the wooded parts of Filevsky Park, clearing branches, because it was impossible to get through. There were bottles everywhere that people had just left. In other words, it was a hub for alcoholics,” Ivanushkin shares his first impressions of the area. 

Church of the Protection of the Theotokos in Fili, 1690-1694, Moscow

Fifteen years later, the now-landscaped embankment of the park is Alexei’s favorite spot for daily walks and he also advises tourists to visit.

“For me, the place is full of energy and inspires the soul,” says Ivanushkin. 

No less significant is the Baroque Church of the Intercession at Fili, constructed in the late 17th century and financed by the boyar Lev Naryshkin, asserts Ivanushkin. In 1812, Napoleon’s soldiers converted the first floor of the church into a stable. In 1943, the lower church was used as a hospital and then, until 1963, as a warehouse for paper products. Highly recommended to anyone interested in unusual places of worship. 

Gorbunova recreation center

“The Suvorov Military School stood opposite the church. And every year at the graduation ceremony, it was a tradition for graduates to secretly raise the flag of the armed forces on the building. They tried to stop it, but no one was ever punished,” recounts Ivanushkin.

To learn more about Russian rock music, Alexei advises a visit to the Gorbunov Palace of Culture, named after Sergei Gorbunov, the director of an aircraft factory and built in 1938. In 1986, it housed the first “rock-n-roll laboratory” in Moscow, earning the building a reputation as the capital’s premier venue for rock concerts and festivals. 

4. Krylatskoe

To learn more about sports facilities built for the 1980 Moscow Olympics, Krylatskoye is the place to start, says local resident Yulia Zhiltsova, who moved to Moscow from Siberia and has lived in the city’s western part for 21 years. 

Krylatsky hills. Panorama

“I love walking around the velodrome and other Olympics facilities. There’s also a speed-skating center and rowing canal. Red Bull regularly organizes the Flugtag competition here, it’s really fun and interesting,” notes Zhiltsova.   

Cycle Track "Krylatskoe"

In her free time, Yulia enjoys what are perhaps the capital’s most beautiful views from West Krylatsky Hill in the nearby park, offering a panorama of Moscow-City, the Church of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos and the arch of Zhivopisny Bridge.

She advises tourists to climb the hill, take shots of the stunning Moscow backdrops and escape the hustle and bustle of the central historical districts. 

Red Bull Flugtag 2017 in Moscow

“Here you feel at one with nature, yet central Moscow is just 20 minutes down the road. There are no crowds, even on weekends. The center is packed and impersonal, but here the atmosphere is a bit more homely,” Zhiltsova explains. 

5. Khoroshevsky

Khodynskoe Field in the Khoroshevsky district is notorious as the site of a deadly crush during celebrations to mark the coronation of Nicholas II in 1905. Today, it looks more like a futuristic city with fantastical towers, art objects in the local park and dancing fountains. By 8 p.m. on weekdays, the park is especially crowded — school students shoot TikTok dance videos and ride skateboards, while children run with their parents through the mirror maze. 

Local resident Alexander Lyubarsky moved to Khodynka in 2010 and, as a photographer, immediately fell in love with the views. 

“Every part of Khodynsky Park — be it a swing, a pond, a sports ground stylized as an airplane and helicopter, or the fountains behind us — is photogenic,” explains Lyubarsky. The Park appeared in 2018 under the ‘My district’ city renovation program.

Chapel of the Transfiguration of the Savior in the Memorial Park complex of world war I heroes. Built in 1998

His second favorite place for photos is the small Berezovaya Roscha (“Birch Grove”) Park (renovated in 2020 as part of the ‘My district’ program), which, besides birches, is home to maple, ash, and linden trees. 

Every visitor to Khodynka simply must go to the World War I Heroes Memorial Park at the Bratskoe (Fraternal) Cemetery, Lyubarsky insists.

World war I Heroes memorial Park

“There’s a wonderful chapel with the buried ashes of Grand Duke Nikolai Romanov [the grandson of Nicholas I and an uncle of Nicholas II who was the Russian commander-in-chief during World War I]. Everything’s also very photogenic there,” says Lyubarsky. 

In his opinion, every foreign tourist should visit Khodynka for a glimpse of what the future Russia might look like. 

“It would be good if all the suburbs could be like this. I’d love this to spread beyond the Moscow Ring Road [MKAD],” he concludes.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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25 Places to Visit in Moscow you Can’t Miss

25 Places to Visit in Moscow

Do you know what the most populous city in Europe is? Most people wouldn’t guess that it is actually Moscow. There are approximately 13 million people in the Moscow metro area, which amounts to approximately 1/10th of all Russians.

This former capitol of the Soviet Union is still the political and financial center of Russia. Just because it is a current business and government city, in no way means that it is boring and not worth a visit. Assuming the political tensions get solved, Moscow is a fascinating city you need to visit.

While lots of people can’t explain the nuances of Russian architecture, most can spot and appreciate it immediately. One of the best ways to see the historic sites is by taking a boat tour down the Moskva River that meanders through the city.

Overall, navigating the city isn’t difficult as there is phenomenal and cheap public transportation (roughly 30 rubles/35 cents per ride). You can also use a cheap Uber on the three ring roads that circle the city at various distances from the center.

Still wondering why you should visit this historic masterpiece of a city? Read on to see the top 25 things you need to see in Moscow.

The House with Animals

This former church is famous for the terracotta reliefs of animals that adorn the front of the building. It is a favorite of locals, and famous around the world. It was built in approximately 1900.

Resurrection Gate or Iberian Gate and Chapel

The Resurrection Gate is now one of the most common ways to enter Red Square. This gate is also the only standing part of the wall that was the entrance to to Kitai-Gorod, or Moscow’s historic central business district.

Book your tour: Moscow Kremlin Armory Chamber Entrance Ticket

St. Basils Cathedral

Probably the most famous of the Red Square attractions is St. Basil’s Cathedral. I don’t know if the legend is true or not, but supposedly Tsar Ivan IV poked the eyes of the architect out after completing it so nothing as pretty could be made again. What an awful boss!

Book your tour: Moscow: Saint Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square Private Tour

Book your tour: St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

The State Historical Museum

If you are like me then you can’t help but find all the twists and turns of Russian history fascinating. The State Historical Museum at Red Square is a fantastic place to learn and study the Russian Relics.

Book your tour: Kremlin, Red Square, and Metro Tour with Pick-Up

Moscow River Cruise

The Moskva River cuts directly through the heart of Moscow. Want to see it all but rest your feet? One of the best things to do in Moscow at night is float along on a dinner cruise . The lights of the city are so beautiful. Of course, dinner in included.

Book your tour: Night lights Moscow Cruise (with Dinner option)

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

This is one of the most unique things to do in Moscow. If you know that many American video games paint the Russians as the bad guys, then it’s probably not surprising to learn that you can find an entirely different variety of video games in Russia. This isn’t a recent phenomenon; even historically the video games were different. If you are a video game buff then this stop is for you!

Main Church of the Armed Forces in Park Patriot near Kubinka

This church attempts to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ as well as Russian military leader. Yes, it’s an awkward amalgamation. It caused quite a controversy when there were plans to create murals of Vladimir Putin and Joseph Stalin to go along with the ones of Jesus Christ (those plans were scrapped).

Bunker 42 (Cold War Museum)

Tunnel at Bunker-42, anti-nuclear underground facility built in 1956 as command post of strategic nuclear forces of Soviet Union.

Americans weren’t the only ones afraid during the Cold War! You can now discover the most secret and secure Bunker of the USSR, Bunker 42. Also known as the Cold War Museum . This former military communication center is now a museum. I recommend this tour that will take you on a private two hour visit of Bunker 42.

If you aren’t interested in a guided tour you can book your tickets in advance here.

Get your tickets: Bunker 42 Admission Ticket and Cold War Tour

Tank Excursion and Bazooka Shooting in Moscow

For real – you can book this tour and actually ride in a tank and shoot off military grade weapons. While that’s not my cup of tea, I know tons of guys would absolutely love to shoot a bazooka!

Book your tour here .

Dormition Cathedral

This is another Russian Orthodox cathedral that is located inside the Moscow Kremlin. It is another famous landmark of Moscow. The inside is decorated with ancient frescoes.

The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign”

This cathedral is located in Zaryadye Park (adjacent to Red Square). It is also on the Moskva River. The Cathedral of the icon of the Mother of God “Sign” previously was a monastery.

Komsomolskaya Metro station 

So many of the metro stations are breathtaking works of art. The idea was to create something beautiful that all the regular people could enjoy, or if you are more cynical you could say it was to attempt to show off how well they were doing.

Book your tour: Moscow: Small Group Metro Tour

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Stree t

The Round houses at Dovzhenko Street look super cool and futuristic, except like many communist projects didn’t actually work that well. They were supposed to be something new and different from the standard “Soviet Blocks.”

There are a number of problems with this design. Supposedly the acoustics are awful making the apartments perpetually noisy. The inner circle becomes a wind chamber even when it’s not that windy. My favorite weakness is that the trapezoid shape of apartments is hard to decorate and even harder to do maintenance on.

Izmailovo District and Izmailovo Kremlin

This area has to be one of the coolest places to visit in Moscow. It features a park in the middle of Moscow that is over 3x the size of New York City’s Central Park. The Kremlin in Izmailovo is a complex located in the Eastern Administrative District of Moscow that is known as the center of culture and entertainment. The wooden buildings are in Russian architecture of the XVI-XVII centuries (not original).

Izmailovo Kremlin on Google Maps .

Tretyakov Gallery

For those that appreciate fine art this is where you have to go. The State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow Russia is the best collection of Russian fine art in the world. The museum previously hosted worldwide chess tournaments (I can’t help be think of the Queen’s Gambit).

Book your tickets in advance here. Tickets cost about $13 per person.

Kolomenskoe Estate

This reconstruction of a former royal estate is just a few miles southeast of the Moscow city center. Supposedly really detailed historical plans survived, so the reconstruction and current museum is incredibly authentic. It was completed in 2010.

Old buildings of Arbat

Arbat is an old street, and was previously the “nicest place to live in Moscow. Even though it fell into disrepair, it’s location, it’s historical buildings, and the fact that it is a pedestrian street are quickly making it a top place to live again.

The Melnikov House

Located on Arbat street, the Famous house of architect Melnikov designed this house (and Lenin’s sarcophagus). Melnikov designed it at a time when private ownership was outlawed, but got around this restriction by saying it was an experimental design to maximize space. Even though others weren’t built, he was able to keep it.

The New Maiden Convent

The New Maiden Convent, built was built to resemble a mini-Kremlin. It stands out to me because this “convent” was the place where women who were no longer welcome in the royal court were banished to.

Monument to the Conquerors of Space at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics in the Cosmopark

The Americans may have made it to the moon first, but the Russian cosmonauts were first in a number of other achievements. This gigantic obelisk pays homage to their accomplishments.

Tsaritsyno Museum Reserve

This royal estate was founded by Catherine the Great. She was Russia’s longest serving female leader. It is now a gorgeous museum!

Stalinist Skyscraper tour

This group of seven skyscrapers are called the Seven Sisters. They were all made in the Stalinist style, and one was previously the tallest building in Europe. If you want to tour them all while learning about their history book here .

Cathedral of Christ the Savior

It’s ironic that a country that was so anti-religion for so long has so many great churches. The Cathedral for Christ the Savior was made to thank Jesus for saving Russia. If you are interested in visiting this and so many other cathedrals in Moscow I recommend this tour that will take you to The Cathedral of Christ the Savior many other popular churches in Moscow.

Cathedral of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God

This church on Red Square is reconstruction of what was previously there but ordered to be destroy by Joseph Stalin. It is a travesty thinking of all the beautiful things that Stalin destroyed to attempt to implement his vision.

Zaryade Park

Zaryadye Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Moscow. It is located directly next to the Kremlin, and offers truly amazing views. It is also famous for its “floating bridge” and the fact that there are so many unique features underneath it.

Church of Sign of Blessed Virgin in Dubrovitsy Znamenskaya

The Church of the Theotokos of the Sign (Dubrovitsy), or The Church of the Holy Sign of the Mother of God is located in a village amed Dubrovitsy about 20 miles south of Moscow. It is another Russian Orthodox church, but what makes this one unique is that we aren’t 100% sure who made it, or why is has a style that is completely different than other churches of the time.

The Church of Nicholas The Wonderworker

I love the unique style of the Russian Orthodox churches in Moscow. The golden onion domes stand out across the globe. This church dates back to 1657, though it has been partially destroyed a few times since then.

Moscow University

Moscow University is one of the Seven Sisters that are the “Stalin Skyscrapers.” Previously it was the tallest building in Europe. Though it has lost that title, it is still the tallest “educational building” in the world.

So what do you think? Next trip to Moscow?

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.