5 Reasons to Visit New England

Tourism has enjoyed a long history in New England, and as we’ll explore here, there are many fantastic reasons to visit New England. The region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and early American history have proved an attractive blend for travellers since the early 19th century. The six New England states – Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont – were easily accessible to large urban centres on the eastern seaboard of the United States, and were beautiful spots to visit.

Early Beginnings (19th Century)

Tourism started to take off in New England in the 19th century as railroads and steamboats became more commonplace. Before regular tourism took off, New England was already famous as the site of the American Revolution, the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth, and the centre of Boston’s literacy and politics. As the landscape became more accessible with the construction of railroads in the early to mid-1800s, many parts of New England that were previously remote and infrequently visited suddenly became accessible to out-of-towners hoping to escape the industrial cities such as New York and Philadelphia.

The White Mountains of New Hampshire were one of the first places to attract mountaineering tourists. From the 1820s, the wilderness of the White Mountains became a symbol of American sublimity, and the area was visited by artists and writers including members of the Hudson River School. Early mountaineering tourists were often from the upper classes, who stayed at grand hotels and resorts perched in the high mountains and who enjoyed mountaineering pastimes such as hiking and picnicking.

Growth of Seaside Resorts

By the mid- to late-19th century, New England’s coastline was transforming into a premier tourist destination. Seaside resorts popped up along the shores of Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. Newport, Rhode Island, became synonymous with elite, internationally renowned leisure and social bonding. Families from New York City built elaborate ‘summer cottages’, which were in actuality elaborate mansions designed to accommodate their extended stay. Newport’s beaches and burgeoning social scene attracted America’s most notable families who flocked to the town that soon became a centre for culture in the US.

Cape Cod in Massachusetts was another important destination. Its accessibility from Boston and its picturesque landscapes made it a favourite beaching spot. By the late-19th century, Cape Cod was gaining fame as a destination for all classes (not just the rich) as more modest accommodations, such as cottages and boarding houses, developed throughout the region.

Twentieth Century Expansion

New tourist products in the 20th century further enriched the diversity of New England travel. Vermont in the winter months became a premier ski destination, earning it its reputation as ‘the Cradle of American Skiing’. In the warmer months, the pastoral scenery and picturesque villages attracted travellers seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation. The lakes and woods of New Hampshire and Maine likewise became more popular for camping, hiking and fishing.

Tourism was also transformed by the automobile, which emerged as a dominant technology of transport in the early 20th century. It is thanks to the increasing flexibility and independence of car travel that middle-class families were able to explore New England’s landscapes and small towns. Popular destinations for motorists included the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, which offers views of the fall foliage.

Post-War and Modern Era

Postwar tourism growth accelerated as transportation became more affordable (albeit slowed by gas riots in the early 1970s) and as leisure travel spread from elite to middle-class families. They used postwar prosperity to vacation in all four corners of New England. For instance, national parks such as Acadia National Park in Maine became popular with postwar nature tourism, part trend.

By the end of the 20th century, New England had evolved into an all-seasons tourist destination. Fall foliage became a prominent reason for visiting the region, with millions of visitors from throughout the United States and the world arriving in the Northeast during the months of September and October. Tourists also came to see historical and cultural attractions, with sites such as Plymouth, Massachusetts, Boston’s Freedom Trail, and Mystic Seaport in Connecticut becoming popular destinations among visitors interested in the nation’s colonial and maritime past.

New England has continued to thrive as a tourist destination of the outdoors, of cultural heritage, of smallish towns, and of New Englander-ness, all of which have helped to define the region’s economy and culture. It’s a balancing act, keeping its past alive, even as it creates what it knows tourists will demand for their own memories.

 

New England is the most densely populated area in the United States, with almost 15 million people living in the six states:

• Connecticut
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• Rhode Island
• Vermont

The residents of these states could give you hundreds of reasons to visit New England, and they will always say that you’ll have the best time visiting New England, but here are the top five reasons New England should be your next vacation destination, whether it’s for a couple of weeks on a New England road trip, or a long weekend.

1. Urban Sprawl

Some of the country’s best cities are found in New England. Boston is the first place most people think of because of its storied history and distinct culture. Massachusetts’ capital has museums, art galleries, a vibrant nightlife and an obscure local dynamic unlike any other American city. These other towns also deserve recognition:

 

• Portland, Maine: The often-forgotten “second Portland” is a growing metropolitan area along Maine’s southeast coast. It’s similar to Portland, OR, in terms of its progressive demographic.
• Newport, RI: Newport is one of the wealthiest towns in the country, with lots of “old money” from previous generations. The town remains a beach vacation hotspot for many New Englanders and a tourist destination for those who want to tour the massive beachside mansions.
• Portsmouth, NH: Are you noticing a theme with the names yet? Portsmouth is New Hampshire’s top coastal city, famous for its fresh seafood. It also has abundant hiking and biking trails with various scenic views, and the beautiful countryside ensures a scenic drive.

Aside from the main urban centres, New England is home to dozens and dozens of quiet coastal towns. If you’re looking for a place to spend a peaceful beach vacation, it’s one of the many reasons to visit New England, and you have plenty of options here.

2. Historical Significance

New England has always been a place of great historical significance, even before the Europeans arrived. Hundreds of Native American tribes occupied the region, interacting through complex fishing routes and trading networks. Tribes like the Wampanoag, Pequot and Mohawk played crucial roles in early American settlement.

Of course, New England is also the home of many significant American landmarks and events. The Revolutionary War started here. Most of the founding fathers came from Boston, Providence, Concord and other towns that remain prosperous today. Some of their original homes and estates are open to the public.

The region even has some supernatural elements locals have discussed for generations. Haunted lighthouses, shipwrecks, mermaids — you name it, New England has it. Anyone interested in American history would have a blast exploring the region.

3. Amazing Biodiversity

New England’s biodiversity is unmatched, and one of the great reasons to visit New England. The coastline from Connecticut to Maine has hundreds of beaches, islands and inlets to explore. The great Appalachian Mountains run through the heart of the region, containing some of the country’s best hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail itself, as does the White Mountain National Forest. Picturesque hills and farmlands occupy much of the countryside.

The seasonal changes and distinct seasons are also breathtaking and a big draw for visitors. Winters are cold and brutal, but the outdoor activities and skiing in the green mountains is phenomenal, what with 118KM of slopes and ski resorts available for those passionate about their winter sports.  Summers feature low humidity and perfect temperatures. The forests and mountains turn into fiery landscapes during the brisk fall season. Spring is rainier in New England compared to other regions, yielding beautiful flower blossoms year after year. The Cape Cod National Seashore is like no other, offering a great place to witness breathtaking sea views of the Atlantic Ocean for those lucky enough to stay somewhere on the coast.

4. Food Variety

Most non-locals know New England’s propensity for Dunkin Donuts, but the region’s cuisine goes far beyond coffee, pastries and apple pie. It was the site of the first Thanksgiving feast, after all. Turkey, pumpkin pie, stuffing and other holiday favorites first became popular among early New England settlers.

Along the coast, you can find some of the best places in the US to go to for delicious seafood items such as clam chowder and lobster rolls. The ingredients are fresh and flavourful, sometimes going from sea to table in under 24 hours. Vermont and Maine are known for their maple syrup production. Popular food brands like Ben and Jerry’s, Del’s and Ocean Spray originated in New England as well.

Here are some of the best foods and food places to try on a New England getaway, that include iconic seafood to farm-to-table fare.

1. Seafood

New England is known for its chilly waters and, thus, its distinguished seafood offerings, particularly lobster and clams. You can’t leave without having a lobster roll, either ‘Connecticut style’ (warm, with butter), or ‘Maine style’ (cold, with mayonnaise). Try Eventide Oyster Co for a ‘new’ lobster roll in Portland, Maine. For classic seafood, The Clam Shack in Kennebunkport, Maine, is a local institution, serving up fried clams and lobster rolls.

2. Clam Chowder

New England clam chowder is a thick and creamy soup, made with clams (of course), potatoes and onions, served with oyster crackers on the side. Legal Sea Foods in Boston is famous for their award-winning clam chowder and Union Oyster House is America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant.

3. Maple Syrup and Pancakes

Vermont is known for its maple syrup, and a stack of pancakes is the perfect accompaniment. Sugar and Spice in Mendon, Vermont, is a quaint pancake breakfast joint in the northeastern part of the state. They serve homemade pancakes, served with pure Vermont maple syrup.

4. Apple Cider Doughnuts

Some of the best cider doughnuts in the US are made at the orchards of New England – any time, but especially in the fall. A favourite ‘pitstop’ for us when travelling through Vermont is Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury, which offers a delicious warm cider doughnut to go with your glass of crisp cider. 

5. Baked Beans

 A New England staple, baked beans are often made with molasses and bacon and can be sampled at Durgin-Park in Boston’s Faneuil Hall.

 These food experiences are the most delicious portions of New England’s classic cuisine, and the region’s best for the traveller.

5. Athletic Traditions

Everyone thinks their city, state or region has the best sports fans, but New England truly has the most passionate fanbases. They give New England’s teams a hard time because they care. Their devotion has paid off, as the region has some of the oldest and most successful franchises in the country:

• New England Patriots: The Patriots have a record six Super Bowl championships, all won in the 21st century. Tom Brady and Bill Belichick are household names in American sports. Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, is an excellent gameday destination.
• Boston Red Sox: Founded in 1901, the Red Sox is the most storied baseball team after the New York Yankees. Although the team had an 86-year championship drought, it has broken through with four World Series titles since 2004. Fenway Park is the best baseball stadium on the east coast, bar none.
• Boston Celtics: The Celtics have an NBA-record 17 championships, the most recent of which came in 2008. Even casual fans remember names like Bill Russell and Larry Bird. TD Garden is one of the country’s best indoor arenas, with dozens of banners hanging from the rafters.
• Boston Bruins: The Bruins are one of the NHL’s original six teams. Their last championship came in 2011. The team plays its home games at TD Garden just like the Celtics, so you can see both teams play on the same weekend during the winter if you play your cards right.

Even if you’re not a sports fan, you will have a great time and a good reason to visit each of these four stadiums. The passion, tradition and success are unmatched.

A New England road trip is a wonderful way to explore the area’s dazzling heathlands, vibrant wetlands and stately forests, as well as its pastoral woodpiles and majestic mountains, historic hamlets and bustling metropolises. This well-rounded seven-day itinerary pays a visit to some of the most storied attractions in each of the six states, beginning with its impassable coastline and continuing through its hilltops.

Day 1: Boston, Massachusetts

 Let’s begin our New England road trip in Boston, one of the oldest cities in the US, and the capital and largest city of the state of Massachusetts. Spend the day sightseeing around:

 Freedom Trail: A 2.5-mile walking path to 16 historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church. 

Boston Common and Public Garden: Relax in these historic green spaces.

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market: Great spots for lunch and shopping.

 Harvard University in Cambridge: Take a stroll across the campus and experience the quintessential collegiate ambiance. 

Stay overnight in Boston, as there’s plenty to explore.

Day 2: Salem, Massachusetts & Portsmouth, New Hampshire

 Drive north for a half hour to Salem, Massachusetts, scene of the infamous witch trials of 1692. Head there.

Salem Witch Museum: Learn about the town’s dark history.

 House of the Seven Gables: A well-known novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne and the historic mansion associated with it.

 In the afternoon, head up to Portsmouth, New Hampshire (45 minutes away), a picturesque seaside town with many 17th-century buildings and a history of shipbuilding. Go to:

Strawbery Banke Museum: A preserved historic neighborhood with houses dating back to the 1600s.

Market Square: A lively area full of shops, restaurants, and cafés.

Stay overnight in Portsmouth.

Day 3: Portland, Maine

 Head north an hour on the coast to Portland, Maine, with its bustling food culture, waterfront history, and hipster cred. Must dos:

Old Port District: Wander the cobblestone streets filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafés.

 Portland Head Light: This classic New England lighthouse lies just outside the city in Cape Elizabeth. 

Portland Museum of Art: A lovely spot to enjoy regional artwork.

Stay the night in Portland, taking advantage of the city’s great seafood restaurants.

Day 4: Acadia National Park, Maine

 Be sure to start early for the drive (three hours) to Acadia National Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in New England. Spend the day hiking:

 Cadillac Mountain: Walk up to the top for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, or drive. 

Jordan Pond Path: A scenic hike around a crystal-clear pond.

Sand Beach: A picturesque spot for a relaxing walk along the ocean.

 Spend an overnight in Bar Harbor, a town close by and known for its fresh lobster offerings in local restaurants. 

Day 5: White Mountains, New Hampshire

 Drive west (around four and a half hours) to the White Mountains of New Hampshire, home to the highest point in the Northeast – Mount Washington – and fodder for inspirational writer Henry David Thoreau who trekked the region for a month in the winter of 1857. Where to go: 

 Mount Washington Auto Road: You can drive up the mountain or ride the restored historic cog railway to the summit. View from the top.

Kancamagus Highway: Known for its spectacular scenic views, especially during fall foliage season.

 Franconia Notch State Park: Hike the Flume Gorge and The Basin. 

Stay overnight in the charming town of North Conway.

Day 6: Stowe, Vermont

 Drive to Stowe, Vermont (about 2.5 hours). This mountain-town idyll is renowned for outdoor recreation and quintessential New England appeal. Spend the day enjoying: 

 Mount Mansfield: The mountain in Vermont with the highest peak. Walk, drive, or take a gondola to the top for a view. 

 Ben  Jerry’s Factory (in Waterbury, which is just outside Burlington): Tours of the ice cream maker’s headquarters. 

Stowe Village: Wander around the picturesque village filled with galleries, local shops, and cafés.

Stay overnight in Stowe.

Day 7: Woodstock, Vermont & Back to Boston

 Before leaving on your last day, drive due south to the ultra-charmed small town of Woodstock, Vermont (about 1.5 hours). Visit:

Billings Farm & Museum: A working farm that offers insight into Vermont’s rural heritage.

 Quechee Gorge: Walk along the ‘Grand Canyon of the East’, as this spot is known.

 From Woodstock, head back to Boston (about two hours), with detours through other interesting towns en route. 

Road Trip Travel Tips:

 The best time to take that road trip is either during fall (for the changing leaves, late September to mid-October) or in summer.

 Back roads in New England are pretty easy to navigate, but there are parts where you can get pretty far from towns so plan your gas stops ahead of time. If in doubt, plan a direct route to your next destination.

 Bookings also move fast in popular tourist spots such as Bar Harbor and Stowe: if you’re planning on staying overnight, you should book well in advance. 

 It will take you everywhere from historic Boston streets to the ragged wilderness of Maine and quaint villages in Vermont.

New England Has Something for Everyone

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The six states making up New England provide something for everyone. City hoppers, outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, sports fanatics and foodies will all have a great time exploring this region, whether in high season or out of it. Pack your bags and start planning, but be warned — once you arrive, and with all these reasons to visit New England, you might never want to leave!

 

If you like these reasons to visit New England, see some more of my travel posts here