new england tourism brochures

Visit New England ®

Welcome to Visit New England!

Home of gorgeous beaches and mountains, colonial history, foods and family fun.

What can you expect from a visit to the New England states of Maine , Vermont , New Hampshire , Massachusetts , Rhode Island , and Connecticut ? For starters, everyone’s seen images of the region’s natural beauty: the craggy coastline of Maine, the blazing fall foliage of Vermont, the mountain peaks of New Hampshire. Moving toward the middle and southern states: the dune grasses and beaches of Cape Cod and heroes of the American Revolution in Massachusetts, the Colonial streets and Newport, RI mansions of Rhode Island, and the classic town greens and steepled churches of Connecticut.

Click Here to View a Map of New England

Beaches of New England

Everyone who loves New England and water fun has a favorite beach . Among the most well-known are the sandy sweeps and bending dune grasses of Cape Cod in Massachusetts. At the opposite end of image and mood (but without sand), are the swimming holes of the old Vermont marble quarries and the tumbling waters of rock strewn mountain streams. Those images only touch of the variety of salt-water and fresh-water swimming places in New England.

Take a Rest

Even the most energetic vacationers need to kick back at the end of the day. Lodgings across New England serve every taste. How would you like to drift into sleep to the lapping of ocean waves from a beach or oceanside resort ? Awaken to the hoot of loons in a mountain resort ? Sip a leisurely cup of coffee at a boutique hotel or bed-and-breakfast inn in a historic neighborhood in charming Portland ME, Burlington VT, Boston MA, Portsmouth NH, Providence RI , or New Haven CT ? Family friendly and pet-friendly lodgings welcome kids and dogs, too.

Romance & Luxury

Start your romantic getaway plans with a walk along a windy beach dune or a sunset cruise on a mountain lake. Move on to a candlelit dinner in a 300-year-old converted stagecoach inn. Romance can go with dazzle, too, like at high-rise luxury hotels in places like Portland ME, Boston MA , and Providence RI , some with rooftop restaurants or pools. In winter, farmers offer horse-drawn carriage rides (or even snowmobile or dog sled rides for the hearty). Romantic dining, from a café in some city’s Little Italy to a restaurant alongside a sweet village green, is everywhere.

Children’s fun is everywhere . Would your children love to ski or snowboard? Poke through granite caves alongside a churning ravine? Ride river rapids or take a zip line dive down a mountain? Play and swim at a sandy ocean beach or a mountain lake? Take a cruise off the Maine coast on a classic windjammer? Maybe visit the olden times at a living history museum like Old Sturbridge Village or Mystic Seaport ? Indoors, children’s museums and science museums are found almost everywhere, two of the best aquariums anywhere are in Connecticut and Massachusetts .

New England’s traditional foods range from Maine lobsters and blueberries to Boston baked beans and Vermont cheese and maple syrup. In this region book-ended by the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island Sound , and Vermont’s Lake Champlain , nearly every eatery serves a fine platter of seafood. Do you love friendly, down-home diners? New England has them.

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

People have their favorite New England seasons, but it can be hard to choose the single best. The sugar maples of the New England mountains burst into brilliant color in fall , with Columbus Day as the usual epicenter of the show. All through the season, smart travelers plan a self-guided foliage drive. Winter brings snow sports of all kinds to the mountain regions, where the ski areas rank up with the best ski spots across the nation. Summer is a time for beaches – from the sandy stretches of Cape Cod to the fresh waters of tree-lined inland lakes and swimming holes.

© Thomas Schoeller Photography

Cruising: small vessels, big scenery.

New England is loved for its waterways, most famously for its waterfront along the Atlantic Ocean, but also the historic Lake Champlain , the mountain-ringed lakes of New Hampshire , the fly-fishing and rafting resource of the Housatonic River , and the many beautiful bays. Maine’s famous windjammers offer cruises, as do boat pilots on Lake Winnipesaukee . Many cruises offer specialty events like sunset views or wine tasting, or a chance to watch lobstermen pull in their catch. Essex, Connecticut , offers a combined land-and-water adventure on am antique train followed by a river paddleboat.

Museums and Shopping

She loves museums; he loves to shop. Let’s start with Boston, MA ’s fabulous arts, history, and science museums. Two favorites are the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum for art and a medieval courtyard and the USS Constitution Museum , with “Old Ironsides” docked nearby. Shopping is grand at Newbury Street and the famous Faneuil Hall Marketplace . It’s not fair, though, to focus on a single city. Art and history and science museums are plentiful and fascinating in Maine , Vermont , New Hampshire , Massachusetts , Rhode Island , and Connecticut .

Colonial and Revolutionary History

You can find stories of the creation of America almost everywhere, along with tales of the region’s seafaring history . Boston, MA has the Freedom Trail among stores, churches and houses where the Revolution of 1776 was planned. The Industrial Revolution was founded at Slater Mill in Rhode Island , when a Brit smuggled plans for a water-powered mill out of England. Living history museums include Plimoth Patuxet . The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor, ME , is one of several that tell the histories of Native peoples.

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Tucked away in the northeast corner of the United States is a cluster of 6 small states known as New England . This region, which includes Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Vermont , Maine , Rhode Island and Connecticut , is one of the most historic and culturally rich areas of the country. 

New England has some amazing destinations and while each state has its own distinct charm, all offer a bounty of natural beauty, stunning fall foliage and an array of fun and exciting activities.  

About This Guide…

What is new england best known for, what are the best things to do in new england, when is the best time to go to new england.

• What is New England’s Weather Like?
• How Big is New England?
• Facts about New England's Geography

To learn more about each state and the best places to visit, check out Which New England State is Best to Visit?

New England is a special place to visit and people all over the world come to see what our little region has to offer all year long.

What makes New England such a popular destination? There are so many reasons to love New England! Here are just a few of the reasons why you would want to come visit.

Its Rich History

As the oldest region of the United States, New England is steeped in history.

From the arrival of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock in 1620, to the infamous Salem Witch trials of the 17th century, along with the pivotal role it played in the American Revolution , New England has an amazing story to tell.

Each state has their own personality and incredible history which makes them what they are today. When you come to New England, you will surely get your history lesson while you are here.

Charming Towns

From its urban cities to the picturesque towns and lively seaports , New England is a delight for all.

Explore cities like Boston , Providence or Portland for a bit of city excitement, wander around seaside towns with cute boutiques , cafes and art galleries or step back in time as you travel the many back-roads, past white steeple churches , over covered bridges and along miles of farmland . 

Fresh Seafood

With the Atlantic Ocean bordering the majority of the region, seafood is a prime attraction for visitors of New England.

Enjoy some incredible lobster , perfectly fried clams or some famous creamy clam chowder . There are so many options for tasting the freshest seafood at every turn, from tiny seafood shacks, to oceanfront restaurants and fine dining establishments.

Stunning Autumn Foliage

Each year, towards the end of September through early-October, the leaves on the trees transform into a kaleidoscope of bright yellows, oranges and reds in each and every New England state.

It is absolutely stunning to see this transformation of the landscape and it’s the highlight of the autumn season, along with the crisp air and fall flavors of pumpkin spice and apple crisp. Fall in New England is an absolute wonder.

Beautiful Beaches 

With over 500 miles of coastline, New England has plenty of options for enjoying the sun, sand and surf. Beaches vary in style with some offering a relaxed atmosphere while others have exciting boardwalks , seaside amusement parks , shopping and music events . You are sure to find one that fits your mood.

In New England, finding something fun to do is easy – the hard part is figuring out what to do first!  

Each state has so much to see and do – it is truly a destination for everyone.

Which New England State is Best to Visit?

Outdoor enthusiasts have thousands of acres of forests and state parks to enjoy hiking , biking , camping and exploring .  

Foodies will be in heaven sampling the region’s famous iconic foods like famous fried clams, lobster, clam chowder, Indian pudding and Boston baked beans.

History buffs will be eager to learn about the region’s past with all of the historic sites and monuments . 

Culture vultures will be impressed by the diverse theater performances and assortment of museums showcasing everything from contemporary art , classic masterpieces , historical artifacts and fun pop culture.   

Beach bums have plenty of options for enjoying the sun , sand and surf with over 500 miles of shorelines along beaches , lakes and rivers .  

Boating enthusiasts can explore the waters with a variety of cruises , sail boating or by renting a canoe or kayak .

Music lovers will find a venue for almost any style of music including classical symphonies, jazz and folk festivals and rhythm and blues . There are plenty of outdoor concerts and other options to listen to live music .

Wine and beer connoisseurs will be in awe when visiting all the vineyards to sample great wine and the breweries to try some world-class craft beer .  

Adventurer seekers will find 48 4000+ foot summits to climb in New Hampshire, 14,000+ miles of snowmobiling trails in Maine and an abundance of black diamond trails to conquer on the ski slopes .

Bargain Hunters will be thrilled to find deals at all the factory outlets and antique shops while hard-core shoppers can shop til they drop at the city malls and marketplaces . If you are in Boston, take some time to do some window shopping at the upscale boutiques and shops on Newbury Street. Don’t miss the famous Brimfield Antique show in Brimfield, MA which takes place in May, July and September during the iconic Brimfield Antique Flea Market.

One of the best things about New England is we get to enjoy 4 distinct seasons and each one brings its own uniqueness. The best time to visit will depend on what you want to do.

Fall is by far the pinnacle time to visit New England with the crisp air and stunning colors of the autumn leaves peaking from the end of September through mid-October.

This is a perfect time to go leaf peeping or enjoy other outdoor activities. You’ll also find plenty of fall festivals at farms throughout the region where you can pick pumpkins , make your way out of a corn maze , or go apple picking where you can sample some famous apple cider donuts . 

New England really comes alive during the summer months with countless outdoor activities throughout the region such as concerts , fairs , festivals and Farmers’ markets . With the warmer weather, its the perfect time to get out on the water whether its a whale watch , boat cruise , kayaking or a white water rafting trip.

Being the birthplace of America, the Fourth of July is a very popular time to visit and there are lots of celebrations around the region with Boston’s festivities at the top of the list.

Insider Tip: While the months of July and August tend to be the warmest to enjoy swimming , boating and other water activities, you may still find the water in the ocean and lakes to be a a bit chilly, especially in the northern regions.

Winter is a chance to hit the slopes and experience some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the east. Not up for downhill skiing? Explore the many trails by snowmobile or cross-country skis. For those not interested in playing in the snow, there are still plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy this time of year.

The holidays in New England are absolutely beautiful with displays of tree lightings and festival of lights in many towns. Many of the mansions and historic houses are also beautifully decorated for the season and available for touring, with some even hosting gingerbread house competitions. 

Spring brings maple syrup , blooming flowers and the melting of all the snow up in the mountains to bring much needed water to the lakes and rivers for summer water activities. Get out to one of the maple farms and see how maple syrup is made or check out the spring blooms all over the region.

Depending on the season, Spring skiing may be an option or you can learn how to tap a maple tree at one of the many maple farms.

If you are visiting over Patriot’s Day, you can even cheer on the runners along the Boston Marathon route.  

What is New England’s Weather Like?

Anyone who lives in New England will tell you that the weather can be quite unpredictable . While there are average temperatures published, you really need to plan for anything. It is not uncommon to have a 20-30 degree temperature difference in the same day or within the same week. 

It can be 80-90 degrees during the day and then plummet to the 50s or 60s overnight. We have had blizzards in April and heat waves in November. As the local saying goes “Only in New England” is the consensus when it comes to our weather – so be prepared. 

Typical Weather in New England

Each season usually does have its distinct climate with the southernmost points being a bit warmer than the more northern areas.

Spring in New England can still be chilly, with average night time lows in the 20s and highs reaching mid-60s as it gets closer to summer. Known to locals as “Mud Season”, this time of year tends to be a bit rainy and muddy so plan to bring a raincoat, umbrella and some rain boots. You may want to have some indoor activities planned as well.

Summer temperatures can reach into the 90’s and can be hot and humid . Typically, it will be a little cooler the farther north you go with July and August typically being the hottest months . Don’t forget the sunscreen if you plan to be in the sun and always bring a sweater or sweatshirt as temperatures tend to fall at night or near the water. Mosquitoes and ticks can be an issue when outdoors so make sure you have bug spray.

Fall has the perfect crisp air which warrants a lightweight jacket for your leaf-peeping activities. If we are lucky, we may get what is called “Indian Summer” where there is a warm stretch around the end of October or early November. If you are planning on hiking at any elevation, be sure to pack extra layers as weather can change drastically. November can also be wet so be careful not to slip on the falling leaves and plan for early snow – you just never know.  

Winter can be quite frigid from December through February with a good amount of snow accumulating, especially in the northern regions. A warm coat, hat and gloves and a good pair of waterproof or insulated boots are a must if you plan to spend time outdoors.  

What is a Nor’easter?

New England can also have its share of severe weather at times. It is famous for its Nor’easters which are storms known to bring howling winds and deep snow – especially up north which helps to make great conditions on the ski slopes. These storms may occur at any time of year but are most frequent and most violent between September and April.

Mount Washington is also notorious for having some of the worst weather on the planet with the strongest winds ever recorded happening on this peak. If you plan to visit the summit be sure to check the weather and plan accordingly.

How Big is New England?  

At 71,988 square miles, New England is roughly the size of the State of Washington. Maine, the largest state, takes up half of that area.  The states are fairly small so it is easy to travel between them with many destinations just a few hours apart. Rhode Island is the smallest state at only 1,545 square miles.

The region is bordered by Canada in the North and North East and by the state of New York to the West and South. Its extensive coastline along the Atlantic Ocean stretches from Connecticut to northern Maine.

Facts about New England’s Geography

While the region is small, it has very diverse landscapes and ecosystems including its jagged rocky coastline along the east coast, mountains , sandy beaches , extensive salt marshes , dense forests , cranberry bogs and numerous lakes and rivers.

• The Appalachian Mountains run through Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine with almost 700 miles of trails.  
• Mt. Washington is the highest Mountain peak at 6228 feet. 
• Lake Champlain is the largest lake bordering Vermont, New York and Quebec, Canada
• The Connecticut River is the longest river, running 407 miles from northeast New Hampshire to Connecticut. 
• The Great Marsh , the largest Salt Marsh in New England, extends along the east coast from Gloucester to New Hampshire providing a natural flood barrier to inland towns and a haven for wildlife.  
• Massachusetts is one of only five states in the US that have cranberry bogs and is the 2nd largest supplier of cranberries. 

Have you been to New England? What is your favorite place to visit?

Learn more about each New England State and the most popular places to visit.

Which New England State is the Best to Visit?

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The states of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine – collectively known as New England – exemplify America at its most nostalgic: country stores that brim with cider and gourds, snow-dusted hillsides, miles of blazing autumn foliage, clam shacks, cranberry bogs and an unruly ocean that distinguishes and defines it all. Scratch just beneath the surface, and you’ll also uncover fiercely independent locals, innovative chefs, some of the country’s best contemporary art museums and a profound sense of history.

Boston especially is celebrated as the birthplace of American independence – so many seminal events took place here, or nearby at Lexington and Concord. New England was also home to many of the preeminent figures of American literature, from Mark Twain and Henry Thoreau to Emily Dickinson and Jack Kerouac. The Ivy League colleges – Harvard, Yale, Brown, Dartmouth et al – are the oldest in the country and remain hugely influential, continually channelling new life into towns like Cambridge and New Haven and setting a decidedly liberal tone throughout the region.

To the east, the peninsula of Cape Cod flexes off Massachusetts like a well-tanned arm. Here you will find three hundred miles of shoreline, sea roses, tumbling sand dunes and the fantastic isles of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. In the western part of the state, the tranquil Berkshires offer the best in summer festivals as well as fascinating art museums. The sights of Connecticut and Rhode Island tend to be urban, but away from I-95 you’ll find plenty of tranquil pockets, particularly in the way of Newport and Block Island, fifty miles south of Providence. For example, less than fifty miles by sea from Boston lies charming fishing village of Provincetown .

Boston is a vibrant and enchanting city from which to set off north, where the population begins to thin out (and the seafood gets better as you go). The rest of Massachusetts is rich in historical and literary sights, while further inland, the lakes and mountains of New Hampshire and Maine offer rural wildernesses to rival any in the nation. Maine is especially known for its coastline, dotted with lighthouses and wild blueberry bushes. The beloved country roads of Vermont offer pleasant wandering through rural towns and serene forests; during your travels, be sure to pick up some maple syrup, a local delicacy, for your pancakes back home.

The best time to visit New England is in late September and October, when visitors flock to see the magnificent autumn foliage. Particularly vivid in Vermont, it’s an event that’s not to be missed.

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New England highlights guide

In 1620 the Pilgrim Fathers landed at Plymouth Rock, in present-day Massachusetts, laying the first foundations of the colony of New England. A century and a half later, the American Revolution sparked into life in this part of the continent, and today its historical legacies are found across the region.

Modern New England's charms extend beyond its past though, and each of its six states has a distinct identity.

Massachusetts is renowned for its capital,  Boston , and is also home to the Berkshire Hills area, which hosts internationally acclaimed arts festivals, the endless beaches of Cape Cod, and the islands of  Martha's Vineyard  and  Nantucket .

Rhode Island is best known for the smart yachts and gilded mansions of  Newport , and neighboring Connecticut for Yale University, the pastoral Connecticut River Valley, and historic Mystic Seaport.

Vermont features white clapboard villages, red-barn dairy farms, and Lake Champlain, while New Hampshire's Southern Lakes region is bounded to the north by the White Mountains.

Maine has a rugged coast, old fishing villages, and vast lake-strewn forests where moose rule supreme.

• Best time to visit New England

New England experiences very cold and usually snowy winters, which are particularly good for winter sports from January until the end of March. May can be a pleasant time to travel whilst June to September is the best time to visit.

Mid-September to mid-October is the time of the fall colors, but the region is at its busiest at this time of year. Rain can occur at any time, especially in the mountains and along the coasts.

Start planning your vacation to New England

Classic New England self-drive tour

13 days from $3,315pp

Maine coast & national park self-drive tour

10 days from $4,530pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Our New England highlights

Go moose viewing at moosehead lake.

Lake-studded northern Maine has dense populations of moose and there's no better place to see them than at Moosehead Lake.

Go walking in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park in Maine is a ruggedly attractive shoreline dotted with lighthouses and clapboard houses.

Photograph spectacular Mount Washington

Mount Washington is the highest peak in northeastern USA, in New Hampshire's White Mountains, and a great location for photographers.

Explore the pretty villages of the Green Mountains

Green Mountains is home to the historical Vermont villages, set around charming greens.

Stroll around Boston Common

Stroll around the historic public park, Boston Common, lying at the heart of old  Boston .

Experience the Cape Cod National Seashore

Enjoy miles of deserted beaches and sand dunes that line the narrow peninsula of Cape Cod National Seashore .

Discover Newport's Gilded Age mansions

The Breakers is one of Newport's Gilded Age mansions, which offer a glimpse into the lives of America's richest families.

Go whale-watching

Whale-watching in New England's waters offer unparalleled opportunities to spot whales.

Some of our favorite places in New England

Perched on the mouth of the Charles River, Boston is one of the country’s oldest cities, and home to many important sights from the Revolutionary War. It’s also a lively university city, with a thriving culinary and arts scene.

Martha's Vineyard

With its cedar-shingled buildings, brightly painted cottages, expansive estates and gently sloping beaches, Martha’s Vineyard provides an island getaway for locals and celebrities alike. You can swim in the Atlantic, take in the Aquinnah Cliffs or indulge in fresh seafood.

Newport, Rhode Island

Once the summer playground of America's wealthiest families, Newport remains a popular year-round destination and yachting center. The town also has a vibrant, contemporary side, with plenty of quirky shops and great restaurants.

Great places to stay in New England

The Colonnade Hotel

The Boston Harbor Hotel

Mansion House

Martha's Vineyard

The Nonantum Resort

Kennebunkport

Omni Mount Washington Resort

Bretton Woods

The Red Lion Inn

Stockbridge

The Almondy Bed & Breakfast Inn

The Bayview Hotel

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The Ultimate New England Itinerary

On the hunt for an adventure, my Travel Curator colleague Roberto and I set out on a road trip to explore New England. Our mission? To immerse ourselves in quintessential New England charm, visit quaint boutique hotels and search for the best lighthouses, lobster rolls, and scenic beauty.  Along for the ride was ‘Droney’ TC’s resident cameraman who dutifully shot some stunning aerial footage of the coastline, sweeping bluffs, and our nature-filled drive from NYC through Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Maine (where those lobsters were waiting). 

Day 1: NYC ➝ Connecticut ➝ Rhode Island 

Drive time:  3hrs, 50 mins.

After a bumpy start at Hertz to pick up our rental car (long story, don’t ask) we left New York for Providence on the first leg of our six-day road trip. The drive from the city taking us through the countryside to Essex, where we stopped for our first taste of New England fare at a landmark pub and inn.   

Lunch: The Griswold Inn (Essex, CT)

The cozy, charming Griswold Inn, a tap house, restaurant, and inn in the seaport village of Essex, CT is a little slice of marine history that dates back to 1776. The walls are lined with sea-faring photos and memorabilia from days gone by and the Americana menu, executive chef Toppin focuses heavily on fresh New England seafood and aged beef.  We both went for the clam chowder followed by sea scallops (Rob) and fish and chips (me) washed down with a local draft beer to the sounds of live music. We sat inside in awe of the historic, almost maritime museum-like setting but you can also dine alfresco in the outside garden.  

Explore: The Seaside 

After lunch, we headed across the road from The Griswold to Sweet P’s , a super cute, pastel-colored ice cream store for a delicious sweet fix before meandering down the main street to the seaport.  Here we marveled at the beauty and tranquility of the sea as we watched sailboats and boaters enjoying the water. ‘Droney’ was impressed, taking to the skies to capture this cute town and epic views of the ocean from above.

Stay: The Dean Hotel (Providence, RI)

A leisurely hour-ish drive took us to our digs for the night, The Dean Hotel , an elegant 52-room boutique hotel located in a historical 1912 building in Providence’s Downcity district. Here the vibe is old world meets new industrial with minimalist rooms filled with vintage furniture, art by RISD graduates, crafts by local artisans, and even a karaoke bar (no we didn’t try our luck). We did however enjoy a lovely dinner at North, the hotel’s on-site restaurant, popular with locals and visitors. Here the dishes come influenced by modern RI with seafood, and meat produced sourced from local farmers and fishermen and are best enjoyed shared. After we settled in for a nightcap and debrief at the hotel’s chic European-inspired The Dean Bar .

Day 2: Providence, Rhode Island ➝ Portland, Maine (via New Hampshire)

Drive time: 2hrs, 30 mins.

We grabbed a coffee (chai tea in my case) and croissant and hit the road to discover the coastal charm of Portland.  Rob at the wheel, our first stop was to take in the ocean air and grab a snap of beautiful Rye beach, then we were off to fulfill more of our lobster roll dreams.

Lunch: Ray’s Seafood (Rye, NH)

The best lobster rolls in the whole of New Hampshire can be round at Ray’s . We know this because we asked Bruce, who has been in the business of lobster rolls his entire life. It’s all down to the butter he says.  At this delightfully authentic local gem (it oozed fisherman shack vibe right down to its red and white checked tablecloths, lobster nets out the back, and maritime images) we chowed down on clam chowder (delish) and warm New England rolls with, yep, just butter.   

Explore: Lighthouses 

Lobster roll fix complete, we headed off in search of Lighthouses, which are a quintessential fixture on the New England coastline. Just 15 minutes north we came upon Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse   The only lighthouse on New Hampshire’s mainland, this lighthouse (also known as Fort Point Light) was built by the British in 1877 on the grounds of Fort Constitution, a Revolutionary War fortification. Today Portsmouth remains an important shipping port and the historic lighthouse, which offers open houses in summer, serves as a beacon of light for ships entering the harbor and New Hampshire’s 18-mile coastline.

Dinner:  Eventide Oyster Co. (Portland, ME)

Back in the car, we headed north for an easy hour drive to Portland Maine, a super cute historic city on a peninsula extending into Casco Bay. The city is known for its Old Port waterfront where you’ll find working fishing wharves, chic converted warehouses, cute cobblestone streets with boutiques, and lively restaurants.  We decided on dinner on the outdoor patio at Eventide Oyster Co., a trendy OG American oyster bar and James Beard Award-winning restaurant serving delicious fresh-caught oysters and shellfish, and their signature Brown Butter Lobster Roll.  Spotting a theme yet?

Stay:  The Press Hotel (Portland, ME)

Something of a journalist’s dream, The Press Hotel in the heart of Portland is located in the historic headquarters of the former Portland Press Herald, the state’s largest newspaper.  The property is quirky and modern but goes out of its way to honor its legacy.  Arty typewriter installations line the walls and everywhere you look are nods to typesetting and the media, the undoubted highlight being the elevators whose walls are adorned with the original print press.  The lobby is the heartbeat of the hotel where you can lounge around over a coffee or cocktails and on the lower level is a permanent art gallery showcasing the works of local Maine artists.

Day 3:  Portland, Maine ➝ Camden, Maine

Drive time: 1 hr, 30 mins .

We started our morning strolling down the hill from The Press Hotel to the town’s village-style epicenter, marveling at the quaint cobblestoned streets, historic buildings, Victorian-era homes, and cute parks.  Then it was back in the car for the 1.5-hour drive to the famed Red’s Eats (yep the lobster rolls were calling). 

Lunch: Red’s Eats (Wiscasset, ME)

I hadn’t heard of Red’s Eats but Rob assured me, this was the place for some of the best lobster rolls in all of Maine, and judging from the endless line, it seems the rest of the country agrees. Located on Route 1, on the side of the road in Wiscasset, a leafy nineteenth-century village, next to the Sheepscot River, this humble red lobster shack has been a mainstay for over 80 years and a pilgrimage here feels almost religious. Founded by the late Al ‘Red’ Garnon, Red’s Eats has won multiple awards for its rolls, an overflowing mound of sweet, chunky meat in a buttery, grilled cradle. ‘Red’ started his rolls after being disappointed by some he’d tasted and this family business is now run by his grandkids. Warning the lines are ridiculous, but it’s worth the wait.  That said, if patience isn’t your game, head across the road to a little sea-faring hub where you can pick up a great chowder and roll at Sprague’s Lobster.

Explore:   More Maine Lighthouses 

As we discovered Lighthouses and coastal bluffs are plentiful in New England so we did a bit of hopping.  In under an hour from Red’s you can stop to enjoy the views and history of Marshall Point Lighthouse , Owls Head Lighthouse , Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse , Curtis Island Lighthouse providing of course the famous New England fog behaves (sadly for us it didn’t). Though we did get a decent glimpse of Marshall Point Lighthouse, perhaps the most well-known in these parts, which stands on a rocky point at the end of the St. George peninsula marking the entrance to the mouth of the St. George River and harbor of the fishing village of Port Clyde.  It was well worth the hike.

Dinner:  The Waterfront (Camden, ME)

A short drive from Marshall Point and we arrived at Camden Maine home for the night.  Here the locals will all testify you must experience and dine at The Waterfront and their recommendation was bang on point. This stylish, harborside (right on the water) eatery and bar serves some of the best seafood in the area (all freshly caught by local fishermen).  Pull up a seat on the outdoor patio and tuck into the lobster cobb salad.  Who said we can’t mix it up? 

Stay: Whitehall (Camden, ME)

Like all of New England, Camden Maine is fairytale pretty and Whitehall is as pretty as a picture.  This delightful property, by boutique group Lark Hotels , was originally an 1834 Sea Captain’s house but today evokes more of a coastal mansion. Set on an expansive lawned area with rambling porches, rocking chairs, fairy lights, and fire pits, this luxe inn honors its history (famed poet Edna St. Vincent Millay was discovered here, after reciting one of her works during a summer party) while celebrating bold, bright, modern design. Everywhere you look there are pops of red (you can’t miss the statement shiny red leather banquette sofa), turquoise (on the stairs and wallpaper in the suites), and every color of the rainbow, juxtaposed against weathered woods, aged metals, sailors rope, and coastal decor.

Day 4: Camden, Maine ➝ Kennebunkport, Maine

Drive time: 2hrs, 10 mins.

We woke up here and had a breakfast (simple but quaint and local products), then grabbed a coffee and some pastries for the road from that super cute artisanal coffee shop, before heading out in search of more lobster rolls and lighthouses, both of which are glorious at Cape Elizabeth. 

Lunch: Bite into Maine (Cape Elizabeth, ME)

Another day, another lobster roll, and today’s lunch came straight out of the super cool food truck, Bite into Maine manned by three super cool dudes.  These guys specialize in traditional and quirky takes on the famed New England lobster roll, with freshly baked bread, fresh Maine lobster, real butter and their signature mayos; Maine style (mayo and fresh chives), CT (warm butter only), Picnic Style (coleslaw, celery salt, and butter), Chipotle (smoky chipotle mayo) Wasabi (zingy wasabi mayo), Curry (yellow Indian curry).  Out to rival the rolls is their hearty clam chowder and delicious lobster bisque.  All of which is as outstanding as the surroundings.   

Explore: Cape Elizabeth, ME

You’ll find Bite into Maine in stunning Cape Elizabeth , a leafy, coastal town near Portland.  Home to history, shoreside parks, and yep lighthouses aplenty, the food truck is set inside Fort Williams Park right by Portland Head Light built in 1791 making it the oldest and most photographed lighthouse in the US.  Today the light is automated and its keeper’s house is a museum, but just marvel at it from the shore or capture its magnificence from the sky if you’re “Droney”. This is the perfect picnic spot which is precisely what we did to devour our latest lobster roll feast. After,  take a stroll around  Fort Williams Park , once a bayside Army installation to explore the Arboretum trails and the fort’s old batteries.

Stay: White Barn Inn (Kennebunk, ME)

An hour south of Cape Elizabeth takes us to the quaint, lively town of Kennebunkport (cutest name ever).  Historically a fishing and shipping village, this east coast summer playground, long beloved by the Kennedys and high-society, on the east coast for its New England charm, boutique hotels, and gorgeous beaches. Just accross the river at Kennebunk, we checked into the luxurious White Barn Inn & Spa, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection and never wanted to leave (so we didn’t). We perched up at the bar for a sunset cocktail served by master mixologist in dinner jacket and bow tie and just stared at the beamed ceiling and delighted in every inch of the rustic glamour of the 1860 era barn which is also home to The White Barn , the resort’s signature restaurant where we had an outstanding dining experience thanks to the Kennebunkport lobster with champagne lobster sauce.  Oh my. Helmed by executive chef Matthew Padilla, the New England meets Maine-centric cuisine is truly special, just like the property.  Here you can take your pick from the chic nautical inn-style suites or your own waterfront cottage.  Divine.

Day 5: Kennebunkport, Maine ➝ New Haven, Connecticut

Drive time: 3 hours, 30 mins .

After bidding a sad farewell to the stunning White Barn Inn, we headed into Kennebunkport to explore the cute town and immerse ourselves in its history. Don’t miss seeing the historic sea captain mansions that line Summer street, the summer cottages on Grace Ocean Ave, and the many local museums including Bush Family Museum , (an homage to the presidential family that spent their summers here), Brick Store Museum, and the Nott House.

Lunch: Max Downtown (Hartford, CT)

We arrived in Connecticut in time for lunch (yes this is something of a foodie road trip) where we settled in at the impossibly chic Max Downtown , a cool modern cool chophouse, that stands as a flagship restaurant in the state’s capital of Hartford. The vibe here is rich and old-worldly and judging from the food and drinks (it’s also a whiskey bar) it’s not difficult to see why it’s the winner of many a culinary award.  Go for the Steak Frites and Pan-Seared Colossal Shrimp, they certainly put a smile on our faces.

Explore: Yale University Campus (New Haven, CT)

Who says you can’t go to Yale? OK, they didn’t let us in but just walking its perimeter and marveling at the architecture, historic stone buildings, awe-inspiring churches, and turrets of this legendary ivy-league university is an experience in itself.  Afterward, head for a cocktail at Ordinary , a warm, cozy wooden walled tavern (New Haven’s oldest) two blocks from the campus to mix with the scholars and philosophers.

Dinner: Atelier Florian (New Haven, CT)

After such a delicious lunch, we didn’t think our culinary expectations could rise any further but Atelier Florian swiftly sent us back into a food coma in the best possible way.  IF Max’s was warm and moody, this bistro-style favorite was bright and airy, a little Paris meets New England in its charm and design.  As for the far, fresh sea-to-table dishes are the order of the day and there’s a focus on sustainable, local meat and produce and plenty of healthy vegan and gluten-free options.  Rob doubled down and went for yet another lobster roll, while I went for my stalwart beer-battered fish and chips.

Stay: Graduate New Haven

Graduate Hotels, all positioned in flagship university towns, take highly conceptual design and a whimsical totally immersive experience to an entirely new level.  No two hotels are alike and all pay homage to their respective university and their surroundings.  Stepping into the Graduate New Haven was like stepping onto the set of a Wes Anderson movie – one filmed at Yale in its retro heyday. It’s hard to highlight all the standouts but you will be in awe of every well-thought-out detail from the “campus’ library, the black and white checkered floor, the retro wood paneling, the old-school telephone booth, and kitsch font.

Day 6: New Haven ➝ New York (via Connecticut)

Drive time: 2 hours.

All good things must come to an end. We said goodbye to New Haven, any dreams we had of getting into Yale and our lobster, lighthouse and coastal charm immersion and hit the freeway back to the concrete jungle where more dreams are made off.  Breakfast was coffee (chai tea for me remember) and pastries on the go, so naturally we went out of our way for one final pitstop.

Lunch:  A Flyby at Delamar Greenwich Harbor (Greenwich, CT)

Located harborside with its own private dock in Fairfield CT, Delamar Greenwich Harbor is a luxury hotel that exudes New England charm with a European sensibility.  If you choose to stay the property has one and two bedroom suites with spacious living rooms, some with terraces and beautiful views as well as a gorgeous onsite spa.  Alas for us, life on the road meant we could just enjoy a drink and lunch. Not that we’re complaining given we got to dine at the iconic L’Escale, where the seasonally-inspired Mediterranean cuisine by award winning Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer almost transported us straight to the Côte d’Azur thanks to its two-hundred-year-old stone terracotta tiled floor, wood burning fireplace and wrought iron tonnelle covered waterfront terrace.  Our pick? The salad nicoise, lobster sliders and Maine lobster fettuccine. I mean, why not?   

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New England travel guide

No region in America has a longer or more impressive history than New England. Archeologists say the first “New Englanders” were living here as early as 9000BC, and the Vikings stopped by briefly in AD 1000.

Read more about the history and culture of New England...

Top places to visit in New England

Although America’s industrial revolution started in New England, it’s the region’s flaming fall leaves and charming white-steepled churches that local tourist boards promote. Certainly, the six states are bursting with 300 years of historical sights and influence – considerably more than any other place in America. But they are also remarkably vital: attend a town meeting in one of the superficially sleepy rural communities and you’ll find that the robust tradition of democracy bequeathed by the founding fathers lives on, making many a town manager’s life little easier than the president’s.

It is precisely this juxtaposition of past influence and present prestige that is so compelling. What’s more, each state has retained a well-defined identity, teasing visitors into testing their preconceptions against 21st-century reality – Maine  associated with solitude and contemplation, Massachusetts with bustle and culture,  Vermont  with beauty and peace, Connecticut with carefully kept white clapboard homes, Rhode Island with its renowned sailing, and tranquil New Hampshire , whose bellwether presidential primary every four years encourages the pollsters to predict the political fortunes that are about to be won and lost.

A trip to New England can mean finding a priceless antique in an out-of-the-way backwoods store, or dining in a sophisticated  Boston  bistro. It can mean rafting down a Maine river and skiing down a New Hampshire mountain, lounging on a Nantucket beach or picnicking on the harbor in Newport, Rhode Island. Yet the region is surprisingly compact.

Read more about things to do in New England...

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Places to visit in New england

• Connecticut
• New hampshire
• Rhode island
• The berkshires

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Itineraries & Planning

Looking for more information and trip ideas for new england click here ., discover new england & the travel trade.

Discover New England works to increase visitation into the New England region primarily by working closely with international tour operators and US-based receptive operators who either have established itineraries in New England or are looking to introduce new programs. Discover New England offers worldwide assistance to the travel trade including:

• Technical assistance with product development and product selection
• Destination and product training
• Individual and group tour assistance
• Brochure production assistance
• Itinerary planning and photographic support
• Information on all aspects of New England

Discover New England Trade Contacts

UK: Sara Ellis email: sara@ttmworld.co.uk Tel: + 44 (0) 208 313 1717

IRELAND : Tony Lane email: tony@woodstockcommunications.ie

Discover New England and Overseas Media

Discover New England and its marketing representatives offer worldwide assistance to the press, tour operators, travel agents and consumers including: photographic support, information on all aspects of New England, itinerary planning and technical assistance, travel agent training, individual and fam tour assistance, brochures and maps.

Inquiries from the United Kingdom / Ireland

UK: Contact: Caroline Donaldson-Sinclair email: caroline@ttmworld.co.uk

Travel & Tourism Marketing Ltd (TTM) 32 Scotts Road Bromley Kent BR1 3QD UK

Tel: + 44 (0) 208 313 1717

Tony Lane email: tony@woodstockcommunications.ie

General Inquiries:

Inquiries from all other countries, including the US, should be directed to info@discovernewengland.org.

While Discover New England invites all inquiries for FAMs from international media and will do its best to accommodate however possible, each request will be considered on a case by case basis. The following times of the year are more difficult for DNE to accommodate due to partner capacity:  April in Maine (many of their properties and attractions are seasonal and close), holiday weeks (Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years), Massachusetts school winter break (usually the week following President’s Day in February), weekends in July and August, and peak foliage season in the Northern New England states (late September and October).

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Request Free Travel Guides from New England State Tourism Agencies

One of the best ways to learn more about New England travel is by requesting free travel guides from state tourism agencies in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Here are the travel guide links to the state tourism agency web pages:

Connecticut Getaway Guide Maine Travel Guides Massachusetts Insider’s Guide (app) New Hampshire Visitor’s Guide Rhode Island Travel Guide Vermont Travel Planner

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Connecticut Travel Guide

From suburbs of New York City to historic towns, beautiful rolling countryside, quiet lakes and beaches , vineyards and wineries , even flashy casinos , Connecticut has a lot of variety.

The Connecticut Shoreline bordering Long Island Sound has everything from booming industrial cities to pristine colonial villages. Southwestern Connecticut is heavily influenced by giant New York City , while Northwestern Connecticut is really part of the Berkshire Hills . Pretty towns along the mighty Connecticut River are steeped in history and culture.

Connecticut Highlights

Mystic Seaport is Connecticut's outstanding "living" museum of 19th-century New England maritime life .

Yale University in New Haven has outstanding museums , including the Center for British Art, the University Art Gallery, and the Peabody Museum of Natural History

Hartford 's Wadsworth Atheneum has a fine collection of over 60,000 works of art

Nook Farm , in Hartford , was home to Mark Twain , who wrote Tom Sawyer here, and also to Harriet Beecher Stowe

Goodspeed Opera House right on the Connecticut River in East Haddam is a Victorian gem mounting performances of American musical theater

Connecticut has over a dozen vineyards and wineries producing good to excellent vintages, and offering free wine tasting

Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun near Ledyard, in southeastern Connecticut , offer elaborate gambling casino-resorts

Rural western Connecticut has beautiful lakes for swimming, inns either cozy or elaborate, and several good local wineries .

Here's information on transportation in Connecticut .

Connecticut Shoreline

Connecticut's 618 miles (995 km) of convoluted coastline stretch from the suburbs of New York City in the west to the quaint village of Stonington on the Rhode Island border to the east.

Along the way, it includes New Haven , home of Yale University ; pretty and peaceful Guilford , founded in 1639; Old Lyme, Essex and other fine old towns at the mouth of the Connecticut River ; New London & Groton , submarine capital of the world; Mystic Seaport , the re-creation of an old Connecticut maritime village and, nearby, some of Connecticut's best beaches and several vineyards ; and Stonington , once a shipbuilding town, now noted for its beauty and charm. More...

Connecticut River Valley

The mighty, 410-mile (660-km)-long Connecticut River flowing from Québec, Canada, to Long Island Sound, is dotted with beautiful, historic towns: Old Saybrook and Old Lyme at the river's mouth; Essex and Ivoryton just to the north; farther north, Chester ith its historic ferry, and East Haddam with its Goodspeed Opera House ; and Hartford , Connecticut's capital city.

Hartford & Vicinity

Connecticut's capital , straddling the Connecticut River 45 miles (72 km) north of the Connecticut Shoreline , is marked by tall insurance-company skyscrapers, and famous for its Connecticut historic sites , its Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art , and for Nook Farm , home of Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe . Nearby Wethersfield is a pretty historic town. More...

Western Connecticut

Perfect for a leisurely scenic drive , Western Connecticut 's historic towns of Litchfield and Salisbury , and pretty Lake Waramaug , are great places to go on a day-trip. You can even sto at a vineyard for a tour and tasting. More...

The Casinos

Southeastern Connecticut's gleaming gambling meccas of Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun stand in stark contrast to the old-fashioned charm of seaside Stonington , but if it's action and entertainment you want, this is the place. More...

Connecticut History

The Constitution State (so called because Connecticut was the first American colony to have a written constitution ) is sprinkled liberally with lakes, rivers, and streams.

The state's namesake is the mighty Connecticut River , which springs from the Connecticut Lakes in northern New Hampshire , flows southward forming the boundary between New Hampshire and Vermont , cuts through Massachusetts and Connecticut, finally to empty into Long Island Sound.

The great river is navigable as far north as Hartford , a significant fact that was not lost on the region's Native American inhabitants. They were the ones who gave it the name Quinnehtukqut , "the long tidal river."

Almost three-quarters of the territory in Connecticut is woodland , and drives along the back roads through these forests reveal rich fields of corn, grain, vegetables, and tobacco. But the state's wealth comes not from agriculture, or from tourism, but rather from insurance and manufacturing .

In the old days the state's production of buttons, pins, doo-dads, and kitchenwares gave rise to the breed of men known as Yankee peddlers , who traveled from town to town in horse and buggy, spreading the products of Connecticut's industry far and wide. Later Connecticut Yankees such as Charles Goodyear, Eli Whitney, Seth Thomas, and Mr. Fuller (of Fuller Brush fame) pave the way for today's Connecticut products: helicopters, submarines, insurance, firearms and high-tech .

Hotel Map with Prices

Use this handy Hotel Map with Prices to find Connecticut hotels:

New England FAQ

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